《Jingozi [An Isekai LitRPG]》 Chapter 1. TANK Chapter 1: TANK
My eyes are drawn to my dead body, cold and pale, with a red, glowing coin covering each eye. I watch the scene standing on a foggy hill, the air thick with the scent of wet earth and something metallic. Around my corpse are three old men. They ignore me. One wears a crown, its jewels glinting in the dim light. With a gaping hole where his left eye should be, the second grips a sword, the blade gleaming with a twilight sheen. The third is my father, his face twisted in an expression of sorrow I can never get through. I want to scream and tell my father that¡¯s not me¡ªI¡¯m not dead. I search for anything to say to get his attention, but the words stick in my throat like a forgotten song. The mist swirls, forming the shape of a poker card. It''s red, with an intricate pattern I''ve never seen before. At its center is a heart symbol, different from any deck I know¡ªthe card hovers, out of place in this grim scene. Two fiery eyes open within the card''s design. They lock onto mine¡ªmy heart races. Then, a flurry of text floods my mind''s eye. STATUS: Name: Ember [8160] Tier - Faction: - Level: - Zii: - Card Deck: - Deck Upgrades: - Meta: - Attack: - Defense: - Spell: - Buff: - Special: - I jolt awake in my bed, sweat beading on my forehead. The taste of copper lingers on my tongue. I blink rapidly, but those burning eyes remain imprinted on my vision, a vivid reminder of the dream that still clings to my consciousness. * * * The dream replays in the back of my mind as I sat at the poker table, casino lights flashing around me in a kaleidoscope of distraction. I glanced down at my cards¡ªpocket aces. Behind my poker face, I should¡¯ve been elated for the chance to bust a couple of tourists for the rest of their chips. It¡¯s been three nights for me at the Golden Nugget. The poker room here was a relic of old-school Vegas, dripping with nostalgia and decadence. The walls were adorned with black-and-white photographs of high rollers and iconic moments from poker history, their faces frozen in time under the dim, golden glow of vintage chandeliers. The felt on the tables, worn but well-maintained, had seen countless hands, each adding to the room¡¯s rich tapestry of stories and legends. It was also unusually crowded tonight. A subtle scent of cigar smoke lingered in the air, mixing with the faint aroma of expensive cologne and the occasional whiff of whiskey. The soft hum of conversations, punctuated by the rhythmic shuffling of cards and the clinking of chips, created a soothing mood I once loved. For an outsider, this room was a place of high stakes, where fortunes were made and lost. With their wide eyes and animated chatter, the tourists brought an element of unpredictability, their excitement tangible as they chased their fantasies. In contrast, with their impassive faces and calculating gazes, the pros exuded confidence born of countless hours at the table. The Nugget featured a regular $1/$2 No-Limit Hold¡¯em cash game with an uncapped max buy-in, perfect for hustling the rent without drawing too much attention. But the actual score was in the backroom cash games, where stakes were higher, players sharper, and the risks¡ªand rewards¡ªimmeasurably greater. I pretended to ignore the conversation between the two across the table. One was a tall blonde with shaggy hair, while the other was a pudgy bald Asian with hipster glasses and a goatee. Based on their polos and blazers, I guessed they were Silicon Valley tech bros. ¡°Do you know who that is?¡± whispered the blonde. ¡°That¡¯s Ember Lynn. She won the World Series in her first year.¡± ¡°Yeah, I know, Karl,¡± the Asian replied. ¡°I read her book on the plane. Stop being obnoxious, please?¡± ¡°She¡¯s Japanese but adopted. That¡¯s why she¡¯s a redhead.¡± ¡°I told you, I read her book.¡± ¡°Did you bring it? Man, she is so hot. Hey, go ask her to sign it for us.¡± ¡°Us? I swear, Karl, shut up. She¡¯s going to hear you.¡± Yes, I was once a poker pro who wrote a book. But you don¡¯t ¡°win¡± the World Series of Poker. You win one of many bracelets, as I did after qualifying for ten dollars through an online satellite tournament. The most recognized player who did the same was an accountant named Chris Moneymaker. Only he won the main event, which is far more impressive than anything I¡¯ve ever done. After my sun run at the World Series, I turned pro but never won or even cashed in a tournament again. Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. I fired another pot-sized bullet after the river card. The Asian, doing a terrible job hiding his anxiety, called. Next, the blonde named Karl shoved his stack into the middle. ¡°I¡¯m all in.¡± In poker, ¡°going into the tank¡± describes when a player takes a while to think. It involves considering the next move¡ªwhether to call, raise, if so, by how much, or fold¡ªunless you¡¯re bluffing to put on an act. But imagine being submerged in a water tank, isolated and focused¡ªsometimes drowning. That¡¯s what it¡¯s like for me, anyway. I went into the tank, staring at the table, and thought through the hand. YOUR CARDS: A? A? FLOP: K? 9? 6? TURN: K? 9? 6? A? RIVER: K? 9? 6? A? 7? I put him on an ace, which gave him a top pair. I checked the flop, and so did he. Then the turn came, and I slow-played it, checking again, hoping he had at least something of a hand. That¡¯s when he started eyeing his chips¡ªa classic tell. He bet double the pot on the turn and went all-in on the river. The pattern was pretty easy to spot. Mr. Shaggy Blonde would never expect me to have trips¡ªhe would have flat-called or folded by now. His Asian buddy probably had a pair of something, unless he was holding something dumb like an 8-5 or 10-8¡ªwhich was always possible with amateurs. Karl could¡¯ve had a king, giving him the nuts with a full house, but whichever way you sliced it, I was already pot-committed. I called. The Asian folded. Karl called and flipped his cards, announcing, ¡°Aces, baby!¡± BOARD: K? 9? 6? A? 7? KARL O¡¯NEIL: A? Q? He had the top pair. I gave him the bad news and revealed my hand. BOARD: K? 9? 6? A? 7? EMBER LYNN: A? A? KARL O¡¯NEIL: A? Q? ¡°How?¡± Karl shouted. ¡°Who plays pocket aces like that?¡± I had nothing to say. ¡°Sir, that¡¯s enough.¡± That was Rocky, the Korean dealer just hired after a stint at the MGM and the reason I was here at the Nugget. I¡¯ve known him since moving to Vegas at eighteen. Three years older than me, he let me crash on his couch and snuck me into the casinos, where I fell in love with poker. I imagined him as the older brother I always wished I had. Karl wasn¡¯t done. I was busy trying not to react while everybody stared, capturing our little altercation on their phones. We¡¯d be all over social media within the hour¡ªprecisely the attention I tried to avoid. Karl shoved Rocky and grabbed his chips. Oh, this is not gonna end well for you, Karl. Rocky grabbed Karl¡¯s hand, turning his fingers white and purple, followed by three rapid-fire cracks. I did Karate as a kid, unlike Rocky, who had no martial arts background. But he had more power than his size gave away¡ªfaster, too. I¡¯d seen him use that death grip technique dozens of times on bigger guys. Karl froze with a high-pitched squeal. The crowd murmured. Security barged into the room as the poor guy started drooling on the felt. After giving me a wink, Rocky escorted Karl out with security. As I stacked my chips, I heard a timid voice. ¡°Um, excuse me. Miss Ember Lynn?¡± I turned to see the Asian guy looking even more sheepish than before. ¡°Could you¡­ maybe¡­ sign a copy of your book?¡± The book was titled Meta Poker. It featured an overly photoshopped picture of me in a skin-tight leather dress, trying my best evil Taylor Swift impression¡ªlike an absolute idiot. I could feel everybody still staring. ¡°Sure,¡± I said, forcing a smile. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± ¡°Albert Chen.¡± I signed it to ¡°My new friend, Albert Chen,¡± using the standard signature and winky face, as I¡¯d done hundreds, maybe thousands of times. Back then, I craved attention. Today, I would¡¯ve traded it all. For what? No idea. Back to collecting my chips, my mind randomly wandered to thoughts of my Japanese dad. Annoying. I saw it after a double-take¡ªa jet-black poker chip in my stack. It was so opaque that it looked like a hole in the table. In the center was an embossed hand-carved infinity symbol. Suddenly, it felt like the floor had cleared out¡ªnot a soul playing poker. The lights went soft, and the table blurred. A deep vibration warbled in my ears, followed by a wave of vertigo. ¡°Every night, Em. How long are you going to play low-stake cash games?¡± I must¡¯ve jumped a foot off my chair. ¡°Rocky! God, you scared me.¡± ¡°Sorry, Em,¡± he said. ¡°What¡¯s up? You okay?¡± Convinced it was nothing, I slipped the black chip into my hoodie pocket. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m fine. And FYI, I¡¯m retired, remember?¡± ¡°What¡¯s the point of being a poker celebrity with millions of fans if you¡¯re not going to play actual poker?¡± Rocky gave me one of his usual looks. ¡°Fans? Really?¡± I shot back. ¡°Besides, I like hanging with you at the kiddy tables.¡± ¡°And when I¡¯m not around?¡± ¡°I guess I¡¯ll have to go make YouTube videos with Daniel Negreanu. I always liked him better anyway.¡± That made him laugh. I always avoided awkward subjects when talking with Rocky. I knew he had no ulterior motives. But I imagined he¡¯d start to sound even more like my Japanese dad, and that conversation would be so not cool¡ªfor both our sakes. ¡°You know I love you, man,¡± I said. ¡°Yeah, yeah.¡± ¡°World of Warcraft this weekend?¡± ¡°WoW, again? Can¡¯t we try something else? Like Baldur¡¯s Gate?¡± ¡°You know I¡¯m a classics girl, bro.¡± Rocky sighed and nodded. ¡°All right, gotta bounce. See you tomorrow night, Rocky.¡± ¡°Good night, Em.¡± The chip pulsed in my pocket as I walked through the poker room doors. Glancing over my shoulder, I swore three black-hooded figures watched me from the crowd. Suddenly, they transformed into the three old men from my dream. Their piercing eyes flashed in my mind, and a sharp pain jabbed through my stomach as if someone had hit me with a bat. I doubled over, breathless. When I looked up, the figures had vanished. Panic surged through me, and I bolted out of the poker room. *** I was back in the tank as Rage Against the Machine blared in my headphones. Cramps, I told myself. Just cramps. Nothing to worry about. Maybe that greasy slice of pizza was finally catching up with me, or perhaps it was just the extra spicy wings I couldn¡¯t resist. And the black poker chip must¡¯ve been some promotional stunt. Rocky had to be in on it. Right? I¡¯d confront him tomorrow, we¡¯d laugh it off, and that¡¯d be the end of it. As I placed the chip back in my hoodie, exhaustion kicked in. Lying in bed, I stared at the neon flooding my room from the Vegas strip. My executive suite featured vaulted ceilings, white marble floors, and columns. All the furniture was tan suede, complimenting a spiral staircase ascending to the second floor. The main attraction was a tropical fish tank running the entire room length. Because of my pro days and seven million Instagram followers, I was upgraded to the best suites wherever I went. As predicted, notifications flooded in about my new boyfriend, Karl, getting kicked out of a casino because he¡¯s either a beta cuck or I¡¯m girlbossing my way to becoming a crazy cat lady. I turned my phone off, thinking of a long hot bath, but fell asleep. Chapter 2. EXPERIENCE Chapter 2: EXPERIENCE
Seriously? This is how I die? A searing pain stabbed my ribs. Gasping for air, each breath became more of a struggle, like someone was using my chest as a trampoline. The pain intensified, radiating down my left arm. My heart raced, pounding against my chest like it was trying to escape. I tried to sit up, but my body refused to cooperate. The room spun, neon lights from the Strip blurring into a kaleidoscope of colors. I reached out, fumbling for my phone on the nightstand. Gotta call... someone... anyone... My fingers brushed against the cool surface of my phone, but as I grabbed it, I remembered. Shit. I''d turned it off. Desperation clawed at me as I tried to power it on. The device slipped from my grasp, clattering to the floor. I attempted to roll over, to reach down and grab it, but another wave of pain hit me. My vision tunneled, darkness creeping in at the edges. No... not like this... I shifted my weight, trying to get closer to the edge of the bed. Maybe if I could just reach the phone... I felt myself falling, unable to stop the momentum. The marble floor rushed up to meet me, and then... * * * Someone stood before me. Suspended in the air and unable to lift my head, my vision was limited to glimpses of gold chains and purple robes. ¡°Who sent you to kill me?¡± the figure snarled, spittle hitting my forehead. I couldn¡¯t speak. Kill? Even if I was able to talk, what was there to say? After all, I was dreaming. But the more I tried to wake up, the more bound and trapped I felt. He punched me in the gut. ¡°Talk!¡± I¡¯d never felt pain in a dream¡ªif that''s what this was. His fist twisted like a corkscrew as two knuckles burrowed into my stomach. He hit me again¡­ and again¡­ each punch more intense. My shoulders and back muscles screamed, driven to their limits. Tasting metal in my mouth, the next blow forced me to spit blood. I imagined Karl had snuck into my room and was currently beating me with a baseball bat¡­ or worse. Some text glitched in and out before my eyes. Name: Ember [8160] Faction: - Before blacking out, I saw an Asian husband and wife smiling at a two-year-old with a mop of red hair. The child wore a fairy outfit and waved a wand with a silver star. * * * I don¡¯t think I¡¯m dreaming. My entire body was stiff, caked in filthy sweat, blood, and, by the smell of it¡ªurine. Glancing down, a burlap sack covered my body with a rope around my waist. More rope bit into my wrists and ankles, suspending me off the damp, bloodstained stone floor. A window with bars on my left lit the room. Drab grey stone everywhere else. An oversized wooden door with metal hinges was on my right. The text reappeared. Name: Ember [8160] Faction: Neutral Level: - Ignoring the possibility I was having a stroke, I tried to concentrate. Or maybe I¡¯m comatose in a bed at some hospital. Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on. Metal clanking and heavy footsteps approached. The door creaked open as two guards with polearms entered. They wore medieval armor and purple cloaks with gold tassels. Behind them, the figure in robes entered. I noticed the bruises on his right hand. I hope it¡¯s broken. ¡°Who sent you to kill me?¡± ¡°I have no idea what you¡¯re talking about,¡± I coughed. He wound up to strike but paused after clenching his hand. He stepped back, but my relief was short-lived. ¡°Beat her,¡± he commanded. The polearms rattled against the wall. Searing pain followed as metal gloves pummelled my sides. I screamed. *** I regained consciousness, angry at my Japanese dad. All he did was give me the best life possible. Both my adoptive parents did. I don¡¯t deserve to have parents, especially those two. I closed my eyes and felt tears roll down my cheeks. * * * ¡°Ember?¡± My senses snapped into focus. Inches from my face, something crouched and stared back at me. It was humanoid but thinner, made of cracked orange clay mottled with different shades of rocks. I recoiled, feeling my body protest as razor blades sliced down my spine. The thing stumbled back, giving me a fuller view of the scarecrow figure. Its arms and legs were disproportionately long, with oversized hands and feet. ¡°Please don¡¯t be afraid.¡± The voice was calm, deep, and sounded male. More text. Name: Cragmarr Tier 2 Disciple Faction: Golem [Demi] Level: 25 I gasped, ¡°Crag¡­ marr?¡± ¡°Yes, that is my name.¡± Cragmarr knelt again, letting me see his eyes. They swirled¡ªtwo orange marbles like melting creamsicles. ¡°It is good that you can read your interface.¡± Interface? As in, user interface? Ignoring the absurdity of his statement, I croaked, ¡°Where am I? Who are you? What do you¡ª¡± ¡°You are about to have an experience that will feel uncomfortable,¡± he interrupted. ¡°Please stay calm.¡± How the hell am I supposed to be calm? Cragmarr snapped my ropes, allowing me to fall to the floor into a pool of sweat and blood. I attempted to stand, but my body wouldn¡¯t respond. Suddenly, I zoomed out from a first-person perspective to see myself from afar¡ªlike watching 4K security cam footage. Maybe he meant ¡°out-of-body experience.¡± * * * Ember was hunched over but ready. Cragmarr stepped to a grate on the floor and twisted it open, making a loud noise as stone ground on metal. She winced, hoping nobody heard that. ¡°Down there,¡± he said. She dropped down with a splash into black sludge, feeling more shockwaves of pain. The rancid stench of waste was unbearable. The grate slid back over the hole with a clang. ¡°Ember, they will know you are gone shortly,¡± he whispered. ¡°Run to the end of the tunnel.¡± The cramped sewer forced Ember to crouch low. She ran like a monkey on all fours, splashing through the muck and slime. Ahead was the opening at the tunnel''s far end as a muffled commotion could be heard above her through the thick stone walls. ¡°The prisoner has escaped!¡± Stifling a gag, she kept moving. A child''s twisted arm dangled from an opening above the tunnel, the small hand dirty and swollen, yet the skin still soft and unblemished. As Ember drew closer, the rest of the tiny, mangled body came into view atop the grate. Time slowed as a single drop of blood fell from a torn nail. A renewed burst of adrenaline propelled her down the tunnel. She passed under the next grate, where another body was curled up. Ember didn¡¯t want to look but couldn¡¯t help herself. Thank God, she thought, as it was an adult prisoner¡ªan old man with a scruffy beard pressed his face against the metal. Behind those bushy eyebrows, his eyes¡ªflickering with fire¡ªcaught hers. She touched his cheek, causing him to stir. ¡°Go,¡± he rasped. She frantically tugged on the bars with a futile whimper. Again, the prisoner said, ¡°Go.¡± Turning her head, rain fell outside the end of the tunnel. Streams of water poured across the mouth of the bars. She had an idea. After crawling to the opening, she raised her hands to her mouth, allowing the cool rain to wash down her parched throat. She refilled her cupped hands and carefully shuffled back to the old man. Lifting her hands through the grate, the prisoner drank as much as possible, his dry, cracked lips pressing on her palms. With those fiery eyes, he stared at her with new intensity. ¡°Go,¡± he whispered. ¡°Then seek me.¡± Seek you? There¡¯s no way in hell I¡¯m coming back here. The old man grunted as he was abruptly dragged off the grate. Her eyes met a guard''s glare. The guard knelt and twisted the grate, covering her in dust and debris. Ember monkey-sprinted away to the opening. Upon arrival, she desperately searched for some way to pry the bars open. The guards entered the sewer and crawled towards her. They were bulkier in armor and moved slowly, but Ember had nowhere to go. She crumbled against the wall in despair. On the other side of the opening, Cragmarr wrenched a bar from the stone. He extended a hand after dislodging another bar to make a big enough opening. ¡°Come on, Ember, you can make it.¡± With just enough room, she squeezed herself through the bars. Halfway out, Ember reached out, and Cragmarr hoisted her through. She clung to him tightly as they plummeted, the freefall stretching into an eternity in her mind. Cragmarr¡¯s rock body absorbed the impact as the two plunged into the water. They sank like anchors. Ember held her breath as long as she could, her chest burning with the effort. What had saved them moments before was now their undoing¡ªpulling them into the abyss. Her lungs screamed for air, and as water rushed in, everything went black. Chapter 3. NINJA Chapter 3: NINJA
I sat up. No bed, no bathrobe, no hotel. Instead, I was half-naked, wearing nothing but a potato sack on a mound of grass. The earthy smell of wet burlap filled my nostrils, mingling with the musty scent of the ground beneath me. My arm was still asleep, and the entire side of my face felt numb. By the firelight, I could make out the forest. The night sky sparkled with stars¡ªsomething you¡¯d never see standing in a city like Vegas. ¡°Ember Lynn,¡± a voice called. Before my mind could register, he sat cross-legged next to me, staring into the fire. ¡°Dad?¡± Tears streamed down my face. He reached out, but I flinched away. Mixed with the burning smell of wood and smoke, I recognized the Old Spice pomade he used every morning. I bawled as I let him hold my hands. ¡°Ember Lynn. Why did we give you that name?¡± he asked. ¡°My hair?¡± ¡°No, little one. Your first father named you Lynn, but we called you Ember because no matter how alone or different you would feel, we wanted nothing to put out the fire in your heart.¡± He leaned in and touched his forehead to mine¡ªsomething he¡¯d always do to promise things would be okay, no matter how bad. ¡°But dad, I¡¯m so¡­¡± He vanished. I felt something in my hand. It was the black poker chip, and the hallucinations returned. My interface? Name: Ember [8160] Faction: - Level: - Zii: - I sprang to my feet, wobbled, and slipped, falling into the crackling blaze. But a clay arm shot around my waist, yanking me out just in time. Screeching like a trapped animal, I thrashed in Cragmarr¡¯s grip. The Golem restrained me, lifting me off the ground. ¡°That is enough!¡± A figure emerged from the darkness. It was cloaked in black, with tattered pieces writhing like living tendrils¡ªthe silhouette of a creature composed of endless, restless limbs. The cloak didn¡¯t reach the ground as the figure floated effortlessly, a faint trail of black smoke puffing out from beneath it. The firelight cast eerie shadows on the figure¡¯s face, revealing a skeletal visage. It wore a twisted metal mask resembling a cross between a human and an alien animal skull. The eye sockets were dotted with multiple lights, each emitting a glow of slightly different colors. ¡°I have no time or patience for these petulant displays, number 8160,¡± it said. ¡°You will comply or forfeit the game.¡± ¡°Ember,¡± Cragmarr pleaded. ¡°Focus and look at me, human,¡± it said. Above its head, more information appeared. Name: ??? Tier ??? Gamemaster Faction: Jingozi [Light] Level: ??? Its bony metal finger poked my chest and pulsed with light. Despite my attempts to twist free, warmth radiated within me. And my Zii, whatever that was, ticked up from 1. Name: Ember [8160] Faction: - Level: - Zii: 100 If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. My body felt strange. I couldn¡¯t ignore feeling stronger and healthier for the first time in years, maybe my entire life. ¡°You have been chosen to battle in the Jingozi tournament,¡± it said. ¡°If you are victorious, you will be granted permission to return to your world.¡± My ¡°world?¡± ¡°There are seven factions in Jingozi,¡± it continued. ¡°Observe.¡± Seven wooden shoebox-sized chests appeared. They glowed in different colors, from red to purple, with the last one black. A different symbol marked each lid, some like poker suits. I focused on each one, and a list formed. 1. Ninja [Red Hearts] 2. Golem [Orange Shields] 3. Samurai [Gold Spades] 4. Monk [Green Clovers] 5. Amazon [Blue Diamonds] 6. Emperor [Purple Crowns] 7. Jingozi [Black Skulls] Cragmarr set me down. Black tendrils from its cloak reached for me as I took a cautionary step back. Wait a second, am I in a video game somehow? As I examined each one, the thing started narrating. 1. NINJA [RED] Represents the strategy, principles, and ideological dedication of the Ninja. Symbolizes the cunning, discipline, and unwavering commitment to their cause. The Ninja are problem-solvers but the most critical of themselves when they fail. 2. GOLEM [ORANGE] Reflects the servant leadership of the Golem. Symbolizes selflessness, strength, and dedication to supporting others. Golems try to avoid the spotlight at all costs and will enable the dysfunction of other factions. I snuck a peek at Cragmarr. That seems about right. 3. SAMURAI [GOLD] Embodies the dedication to knowledge, wisdom, and perfectionist application of the Samurai. Symbolizes the pursuit of excellence, strategic insight, and profound understanding. Samurai tend to be selective in their responsibilities, choosing only to participate when they have confidence they possess the necessary knowledge. 4. MONK [GREEN] Signifies the social harmony of the Monk, seeking the vision to reconcile all. Symbolizes peace, unity, and the quest for enlightenment and reconciliation. Monks tend to be social chameleons but struggle with conflict at the risk of being disliked. 5. AMAZON [BLUE] Illustrates the resourcefulness and flexibility of the Amazon, with a dedication to legacy. Symbolizes adaptability, strategic planning, and the importance of preserving heritage. Amazons find ultimate security in their resources and, therefore, struggle when others do not value them for those resources. 6. EMPEROR [PURPLE] Represents the institutional leadership of the Emperor, focusing on loyalty and freedom to grow. Symbolizes authority, governance, and the balance between tradition and progress. To the Emperor, the ends always justify the means, including control through domination. ¡°The purple Emperors,¡± I said. ¡°That¡¯s where I was, right? The guy with the robe and gold chains?¡± Cragmarr nodded. I shuddered, remembering the child. 7. JINGOZI [BLACK] Locked ¡°Why can¡¯t I pick black?¡± I asked. ¡°I assume that¡¯s you, the Jingozi.¡± ¡°It is forbidden.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not a real answer. It¡¯s like saying, ¡®Because I said so.¡¯¡± Cragmarr sighed behind me. ¡°We Jingozi are the gamemasters,¡± it said. ¡°You may only represent our faction by divine decree. There will be no further questions on this matter, human.¡± I flipped it my middle finger¡ªno reaction except for a message. FACTION ASSIGNED: NINJA [RED HEARTS] Represents the strategy, principles, and ideological dedication of the Ninja. Symbolizes the cunning, discipline, and unwavering commitment to their cause. The Ninja are problem-solvers but the most critical of themselves when they fail. LEVEL UP Name: Ember [8160] Tier 1 Apprentice Faction: Ninja [Field] Level: 1 So much for choice, I see. The Ninja faction box hovered towards me, disappearing as soon I touched it. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A JINGOZI DECK [NINJA] Cards: 36 [Battle] / 0 [Spell] NEW QUEST: JINGOZI TUTORIAL Complete the Jingozi tutorial. NEW QUEST: JINGOZI APPRENTICE Reach level 24 to complete tier 1. NEW QUEST: JINGOZI TOURNAMENT Win the Jingozi Tournament for your final reward. Prerequisite: Level 24 The Jingozi extended its palm. A poker-sized card materialized with a red glow, gliding towards me, leaving a faint trail of red light. ¡°This is your first spell card,¡± it said. ¡°Do you accept?¡± I hesitated before poking the card. It evaporated into red smoke, which was sucked into the tip of my finger. A scalding pain shot through my hand as if I¡¯d plunged it into boiling water. The agony spread up my arm, searing through my veins until it engulfed my entire body. I cried out, collapsing onto all fours, drenched in sweat. The pain was beyond anything I¡¯d ever imagined. Through the pounding in my ears, Cragmarr said, ¡°It is too much for her.¡± ¡°The vessel is strong,¡± the Jingozi replied. ¡°I chose it myself.¡± ¡°But look at her.¡± ¡°Then this girl is a pitiful waste and deserves to perish.¡± ¡°You know,¡± I gasped. ¡°I can hear you, right?¡± FEAT ACHIEVED: SPELL CARDS You can learn and receive one spell per level. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A SPELL CARD Access will be granted during the tutorial. Everything faded to black¡ªagain. Chapter 4. TUTORIAL Chapter 4: TUTORIAL
Something soft and moist prodded my cheek. Groggy and disoriented, I tried to brush it away, only to find a rough, noodle-like tongue licking my face. I jolted awake. ¡°What the hell?!¡± Startled, the creature scurried back, blinking at me. It looked like a pangolin, about two feet long, with a long snout and a tail stretching the same length as the body. I remembered watching National Geographic videos about pangolins walking on their hind legs with sharp claws like tiny velociraptors. But this one was different. Its scales were silver, and under the coat of armor was a blanket of white hair¡ªalien but kind of adorable at the same time. Its dark eyes locked onto mine. I reached out my hand as a friendly gesture, but it took off with blinding speed, leaving a shimmering blur. ¡°That was a silverglint.¡± I turned and saw Cragmarr behind me. Thankfully, that other¡­ thing¡­ the Jingozi, was gone. ¡°Very rare,¡± he continued. ¡°People believe they are omens of good fortune. But there are always two.¡± ¡°I guess I was never dreaming,¡± I said, my throat dry. ¡°How long was I out?¡± ¡°Three days.¡± ¡°What? Did you stand there the whole time?¡± Before Cragmarr responded, I took in my surroundings. The view was breathtaking. The forest was a muted display of light and shadow. Humongous pine trees stood as the early sunlight poked through the canopy. A cool mist carried the sounds of waking birds and the occasional rustle of branches in the wind. Patches of moss glowed in the dim light, and dew clung to the grass. Despite my circumstances, the forest was calm and subdued, and the air smelled crisp and fresh. I felt refreshed¡ªinvigorated even¡ªif you ignored the fact that some creepy thing called a Jingozi had kidnapped me, and now I was talking to a pile of clay and rocks named Cragmarr. ¡°I do not sleep,¡± he said. ¡°There is a package for you.¡± Behind the log sat a wooden box wrapped in an ornate red scarf, with the heart symbol representing the Ninja faction. The scarf was made of exquisite silk and large enough to be a blanket. It would have cost a fortune in Vegas. I touched the package. DO YOU WISH TO LOOT THE CONTENTS OF THE NINJA STARTER PACK? [Yes/No] Startled, I stumbled backward. The notification remained. ¡°Um, yes?¡± I said, ducking by instinct as more text started scrolling. YOU HAVE OPENED THE NINJA STARTER PACK You receive: - Small backpack [12 slots] - Small knife [1] - Tinderbox [1] - Small rope [20 feet] - Bandages [10] - Rations [10] - Waterskin [1] - Basic field Ninja uniform [1] - Ninja scarf [1] - Ninja faction token [1] The box disappeared, and I took a moment to sit there, rubbing my eyes. Yeah, just like a video game. What the hell? Cragmarr was putting on a belt with pouches. ¡°Hey, where did all the stuff in the box go?¡± I asked. A grid with twelve slots appeared. INVENTORY [SMALL BACKPACK]: - Small knife [1] - Tinderbox [1] - Small rope [20 feet] - Bandages [10] - Rations [10] - Waterskin [1] - Basic field Ninja uniform [1] - Ninja scarf [1] CURRENCY: - Ninja faction token [1] ¡°Okay, then,¡± I muttered. ¡°Let¡¯s see what this does.¡± In my head, I concentrated on the waterskin. A brown leather bladder filled with liquid appeared in my hand. I uncapped it, gulped half the water, splashed some on my face, and dumped the rest on my neck. That was probably a dumb idea, Em. The ten rations were stuck together like an artisanal loaf of beef jerky wrapped in parchment. I peeled one off, the size of a hockey puck. It smelled like typical gas station beef jerky but with a hint of spices. My stomach growled, so I chewed it while checking the rest of the loot. Next, the pile of garments and accessories appeared, neatly folded in a bundle. My skin itched unbearably because of the God-awful burlap sack. The uniform I received was meh¡ªmore like prison duds. But the half-fingered gloves, wristbands, and slipper socks with thick soles were welcome accessories. Thankfully, the package included underwear¡ªred, of course. Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. ¡°Hey, Cragmarr,¡± I said. ¡°Yes?¡± ¡°Turn around.¡± The Golem complied. Untying the rope belt, the burlap fell around my ankles while I raced to put on the rest of the outfit. Relieved to be wearing fresh clothes, I checked the fit¡ªexactly my size. Okay, Em. Let¡¯s say you¡¯re not crazy. There should be a character sheet or something. On cue, another screen popped up in my vision. STATUS: [TUTORIAL MODE] Name: Ember [8160] Faction: Ninja [Field] Level: 1 Zii: 100 Card Deck: 36 [Battle] / 1 [Spell] Deck Upgrades: None Meta: None Attack: 0 Defense: 0 Spell: 0 Buff: 0 Special: None I¡¯ve probably lost my mind, but it¡¯s official¡­ I¡¯m a level 1 Ninja¡­ are we really doing this? I took another minute, tearing off strips of jerky with my teeth. After swallowing the last bite, I turned to Cragmarr. ¡°Okay. I have questions that you¡¯re gonna answer right now.¡± * * * Sitting on a log, I worked on my third ration, stress-eating as if it were a marathon poker session. I tried to act casual, putting the remaining piece in my pocket. ¡°Let me get this straight,¡± I said, standing up. ¡°This whole world is a different dimension, not another planet. Like a multiverse or something. You¡¯ve got seven factions at war. And the Jingozi, who are pretty much aliens, appeared one day as religious missionaries with some magical card game?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± Cragmarr confirmed. ¡°That¡¯s not weird at all.¡± ¡°I expected you to feel the opposite.¡± ¡°Oh no, it¡¯s totally weird. Anyway¡­ so, all your factions learn this game to participate in Jingozi tournaments, just like poker in my world. If you win, you receive fame, fortune, and valuable resources for your faction.¡± ¡°Yes. But you must be chosen.¡± ¡°And the Jingozi body snatch people like me from our dimension¡ªEarth¡ªto also play Jingozi?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± I rubbed my temples, mulling the whole crazy conversation. ¡°Why? It sounds like you¡¯re all doing just fine fighting amongst yourselves.¡± ¡°That answer you must attain on your own,¡± Cragmarr replied, stepping forward. ¡°But your kind has been playing the game as long as us.¡± ¡°Huh?¡± ¡°The Jingozi seeded your world with the game in various forms. You do not know it as Jingozi because your world is less attuned to magic. Training with games is part of their selection process. They have been observing you.¡± ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s crazy, but I¡¯ll give you the benefit of the doubt here, Cragmarr. Go on.¡± ¡°There are two modes of Jingozi. The first is what you know as PVE, player versus environment. The second is¡ª¡± ¡°PVP. Player versus player.¡± He nodded. ¡°Then I have two questions,¡± I said. ¡°First, why put me through all that torture stuff? And how do I get home again?¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Ember,¡± Cragmarr put a clay hand on my shoulder. ¡°The Jingozi believe your kind plays better with a traumatic experience and story introduction. It is the fastest way to adapt to this dimension and motivate you to play the game.¡± I batted his hand away. ¡°Let me get this straight,¡± I said. ¡°You¡¯re telling me that whole prison escape was like a crazy-ass cutscene from a video game? And you¡¯re what¡­ the tutorial?¡± ¡°Ember,¡± he said, holding both hands up, ¡°I know this is difficult. But if you do not play Jingozi, they will not let you go home.¡± ¡°And what¡¯s up with that spell card trying to murder me the other night?¡± ¡°The Jingozi consider it a rite of passage. Each card attunes to your unique Zii frequency. The pain symbolizes your sacrifice as a Jingozi apprentice.¡± ¡°What if I just refuse to play?¡± I said, pointing at myself. ¡°Ember, I know this is unfair, but to help you, every human also receives a special gift.¡± ¡°Oh really? Like Oprah is gonna give me a free car or something?¡± ¡°Who is Oprah?¡± ¡°Forget it. Go on.¡± ¡°You will discover it on your own. It is a special ability that only you have.¡± ¡°I¡¯d rather have the car,¡± I grumbled. ¡°Please, Ember. We must start your training.¡± I was clearly losing my shit and took a deep breath. The whole situation was getting more convoluted by the minute, but a tantrum would get me nowhere. Everything was about getting home. What choice do I have? ¡°Sorry, Cragmarr,¡± I sighed. ¡°You¡¯re just trying to help. Okay. Show me.¡± * * * Jingozi was a mashup of trading card games and 5-Card Draw. Cragmarr explained it using poker terms even though the players in this dimension didn¡¯t require similar instructions. To them, the game was played using intuition because they were more sensitive to Zii magic. Even my user interface and notifications were explicitly designed for players like me. Roughly one in a hundred thousand people are chosen to play Jingozi at any given time¡ªmaking me like a Jedi in this world, or something like that. Players at level 1 received a deck of 36 standard battle cards and one spell card. Like a wizard, your Jingozi deck was a spell book that gave you powers. And for every level gained, you learned another spell. The spells were a mix of effects granted to every player, while some were specific to a faction to reflect its culture and game strategy. ¡°To see your cards,¡± Cragmarr said, stepping to the side, ¡°pull them from your inventory.¡± I held my palm up, expecting the box to appear like the waterskin. Instead, my deck exploded from my hand, flinging cards like a magic trick. They fluttered and organized into a floating six-by-six grid. The words Battle Cards hovered in front of it. Another grid with twenty-four slots floated to the right, and a white card took one slot. It was labeled Spell Cards. Each battle card resembled a domino with two stacked groups of pips representing values from zero to seven. Because I was a poker nerd, I calculated 252 battle points across all battle cards. Cragmarr explained that when you play a battle card, the number on top is your attack score, which is the ¡°risk¡± to others. The bottom number is your defense score, representing the ¡°reward¡± if you win the hand. However, your attack and defense also affected the cost of spells, which is why strategy and resource management were essential. If your battle card is a [2/5], you could play it as a [2 attack/5 defend], or you could spin it into a [5 attack/2 defend]. Every hand started with five cards from your deck. With a flick of your wrist, they loaded into your hand like a magic trick. The decks were automatically shuffled, so RNG (random number generator) mechanics were involved. After playing any card, it was discarded. You can only play one battle card at a time but instantly lose if you run out. ¡°Okay, I think I got it for now,¡± I said, making my five-card hand appear and disappear. ¡°But why can¡¯t I open the spell card?¡± ¡°You have not reached that part of the tutorial yet.¡± ¡°Of course I haven¡¯t,¡± I mumbled. ¡°Stand here,¡± Cragmarr walked across the clearing. When he was about thirty feet away, he turned and took a martial arts stance as if in a duel. CRAGMARR [GOLEM] HAS CHALLENGED YOU TO A JINGOZI MATCH [TUTORIAL MODE] Do you accept? [Yes/No] Sure, why not? YOU HAVE ENTERED A JINGOZI MATCH [TUTORIAL MODE] Opponent(s): 1. Cragmarr [Golem] With a hollow warble, the world dissolved into a technicolor swirl, and I felt a strange pulling sensation, like being sucked through a vortex. We rematerialized standing in an expansive open space. The sky was mystical, illuminated by waves of translucent colors¡ªlike northern lights on psychedelics. My senses heightened to an almost unbearable degree. The air smelled of ozone and exotic flowers, and the dark ground felt solid and fluid simultaneously, like standing on swirling obsidian glass. A faint hum of energy buzzed in my ears. An ethereal light outlined Cragmarr. With my enhanced vision, I noticed every crack and rock and even zoomed into my reflection in his eyes. ¡°Step forward and turn around,¡± he instructed. After hesitating, I stepped forward and turned. Behind me stood a copy of me, frozen in time, with arms crossed and a blank expression. What the actual¡­ ¡°We are in the Jingozi Arena,¡± Cragmarr began. ¡°Its properties allow us to play the game within an instance of time. No harm can come to our physical forms while we are here. What you see is an image of your physical form. It is your anchor and means to return when a Jingozi match ends.¡± ¡°Like being in virtual reality.¡± ¡°Correct,¡± Cragmarr continued. ¡°But although this is not real, you will feel everything as it was. In this arena, anything is possible if you can imagine it as you play your Jingozi cards.¡± I reached out to touch my suspended image. My hand passed through like a hologram. ¡°Okay, now what do I do?¡± I said. ¡°Play a card,¡± he resumed his combat stance, ¡°and strike me.¡± Chapter 5. AGAIN Chapter 5: AGAIN
Gauging the distance between us, there was no way I could attack from where I stood or close the gap fast enough. ¡°How?¡± I asked. ¡°Do as I taught you. Try a battle card.¡± ¡°Uh, okay,¡± I loaded my hand and examined my cards. Hand: [4/0] [2/5] [3/3] [1/7] [5/1] I spun the [1/7] to make it a [7/1], and it floated into the air. Cragmarr chose his card, and it hovered the same way. Every battle card required at least 1 Zii to activate, similar to mana in video games. Every player started with 100 Zii, like sitting at a poker table with a hundred $1 chips. Except Zii didn¡¯t represent money, but your health, mana, and in-game currency combined. The objective was to reduce all opponents¡¯ Zii to zero. I touched my battle card and tapped it for a single Zii. After a slight rush, the card glowed with the number 1, signaling my battle card was committed. Ember [Ninja]: Battle Card Committed [1 Zii Wagered] - Current Total Reward: 1 Zii Every player acted in turns, with the first-to-act position rotating each hand. For this hand, I went first and waited for Cragmarr. The number 1 popped up on Cragmarr¡¯s card, indicating his card was also committed. Cragmarr [Golem]: Battle Card Committed [1 Zii Wagered] - Current Total Reward: 2 Zii As if I was shot from a cannon, my body launched and accelerated toward him. Without thinking, I extended my fist for an MMA Superman punch that hit Cragmarr square in the face. Three glowing red coins exploded into the air from the point of impact. Pain ripped through my arm¡ªmy knuckles bent into unnatural angles. I let out a blood-curdling screech. It felt like a blowtorch blasting my fist. EMBER [NINJA] WINS THE HAND - Wagers: 2 Zii - Cragmarr [Golem]: 1 Zii - Total Reward: 3 Zii Cragmarr¡¯s card showed a [2/7]. The three red coins had landed at my feet, now levitating about an inch off the round. The coins arced into the air and disappeared into my palm. But my hand was mangled with fingers bent in various unnatural directions. CRAGMARR [GOLEM] CONCEDES THE MATCH Do you accept? [Yes/No] God, yes! Exiting the Jingozi arena, the clearing reappeared as I fell to my knees, clutching my wrist. Although my hand was now fine, it throbbed with the phantom pain of bones popping back into place. ¡°What the hell was that?¡± I groaned, rolling face-first into some moss. ¡°You won the hand.¡± Cragmarr leaned over with a big grin, revealing his rocky teeth. Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions. ¡°The hand? What about my hand, you big dumb Golem!¡± ¡°You played a [7/1], and I played a [2/7]. Your attack was greater. So, you won, and your reward was the two Zii we wagered to charge our battle cards. Plus, one extra for your defense score as a reward from my Zii.¡± He watched me flex my hand a few more times. ¡°All damage in the Jingozi arena stays in the arena.¡± ¡°That¡¯s what they say about Vegas,¡± I grumbled. ¡°I do not understand.¡± ¡°Never mind,¡± I said, my face still smushed in the moss. ¡°What if I played a [7/7]?¡± ¡°You would have been rewarded 7 Zii. Open your game log, please.¡± I flipped over onto my back. MATCH RESULTS: Name: Ember [8160] Faction: Ninja [Field] Zii: 102 Cards: [Battle] 35 / [Spell] 1 Name: Cragmarr Faction: Golem [Demi] Zii: 98 Cards: [Battle] 35 / [Spell] 24 ¡°What if you played a [7/2] against my [7/1]?¡± I asked. ¡°If neither of us played any spells to change our attack scores, our battle cards would have neutralized each other. It would be a tie turn, and the hand would continue with the remaining cards in our hands until one of us was a winner.¡± ¡°You mean we¡¯d attack each other again with another card from our hand?¡± I said. ¡°Like jousting?¡± ¡°That is a way to look at it, yes.¡± ¡°Okay, I think it¡¯s starting to click. Since everybody has the same battle cards, you want to be careful which ones you use because you might run out of the most powerful ones. You¡¯ll also have to rely on what gets drawn from your deck into your hand¡ªrandom number generation.¡± ¡°Yes, that is wise. You are learning quickly. The game is designed to give every player an equal chance for victory.¡± ¡°It¡¯s not pay-to-win, you mean.¡± ¡°What is that?¡± ¡°Sorry, never mind,¡± I sat up. ¡°Then why did I break my hand? Can¡¯t I just use a gun or something?¡± ¡°There are no firearms in Jingozi. But you have the right idea. You can use anything brought into the Jingozi arena as a weapon. Every faction has a different battle style according to their training and culture. But pain is a part of the game. You will be disadvantaged if you do not develop the proper mental fortitude.¡± ¡°Can I shoot lasers out of my eyes?¡± ¡°If you train for it, yes.¡± ¡°What stops me from creating armor and a battle axe against a lame redhead Ninja chick trying to punch me with bare fists?¡± ¡°Nothing,¡± he chuckled. ¡°But you must remember manifestations that feel real during the game, including weapons, armor, or magic effects, are not real. They do not change the potency of your attacks, defense, or spells. Hand-to-hand combat can damage as much as a sword or fireball. They only change your experience of the game itself.¡± ¡°Well, at least that¡¯s fair.¡± Cragmarr walked back to the edge of the clearing, stretched his neck, and cracked his knuckles. ¡°Again.¡± CRAGMARR [GOLEM] HAS CHALLENGED YOU TO A JINGOZI MATCH [TUTORIAL MODE] Do you accept? [Yes/No] * * * We played one hand at a time in a series of mini-matches. Cragmarr chose weaker cards, allowing me to practice relatively unscathed. My old Karate and boxercise training resurfaced, muscle memory kicking in as I gained confidence. The injuries still hurt like hell, but knowing they were temporary made it somewhat bearable. I also trained with weapons, testing various kinds in a Jingozi match. We practiced with wooden staves, rocks, and knives, each with a unique weight, balance, and style. But after a few rounds, I stuck to basic hand-to-hand combat¡ªat least for now. In Vegas, the only weapon I ever carried was a can of mace. After getting the hang of things, the pace intensified. We worked on combos and stringing together attacks. The training became more demanding, each round pushing me harder, but my skills sharpened with every exchange. Despite my constant complaints¡ªabout the pain, the confusion, the sheer exhaustion¡ªCragmarr remained patient. After dislocating my shoulder, I was more than done. ¡°I can¡¯t fight for shit!¡± Cragmarr blinked, confused. ¡°Why would you fight for a shift?¡± ¡°I said, shit, Cragmarr.¡± ¡°Where would you like me to sit?¡± ¡°Really?¡± I said. He just stared at me. ¡°Your language¡­ it is confusing.¡± Suspicious, I tried an experiment. ¡°If I say the word ¡®fuck,¡¯ what do you hear?¡± ¡°A word in a foreign tongue I cannot comprehend.¡± I thought about it for a moment before it struck me. This was the most absurd feature the Jingozi could have added to their game. I broke out in hysterical laughter. ¡°Of course,¡± I giggled. ¡°A language filter.¡± ¡°What is that?¡± he asked. I couldn¡¯t stop laughing, plus I couldn''t tell if Cragmarr was legitimately amused or tolerating my hysterics. So, I decided to lean into the absurdity. ¡°Hey, Crag. Can I call you Crag?¡± I said, catching my breath. ¡°Of course. Can I call you Em?¡± ¡°Be my guest, Craaaaaag. But I have one more question, if I may.¡± ¡°Yes?¡± ¡°What happens if I die?¡± Cragmarr went quiet. ¡°Hello? Earth to Crag?¡± I snickered. His smile vanished. Picking me up off the ground and planting me on my feet, he became intimidating for the first time. ¡°Again.¡± CRAGMARR [GOLEM] HAS CHALLENGED YOU TO A JINGOZI MATCH [TUTORIAL MODE] Do you accept? [Yes/No] Chapter 6. FISH Chapter 6: FISH
I followed Cragmarr through the dense forest, our footsteps muffled by the thick layer of fallen leaves. It was a scorching morning, even in the shade. I attempted to break the ice, but the mood remained somber. Cragmarr explained a [Field] Ninja as the starter class of the Ninja faction. Upon reaching tier 2, I could specialize as an Assassin or Mystic. A class called the Shadow Elven was also reserved for, well¡­ elves. Despite its fantasy elements, I wondered why our worlds were so similar. From what I gleaned, countless other dimensions were nothing like Earth. The Jingozi chose dimensions that shared traits, such as humanoid forms and environments, ensuring all selected players could participate. They created arenas where participants competed equally by bridging the potential differences. The scale of it all couldn¡¯t be denied. If what Cragmarr said was even half true, the Jingozi had crafted a cosmos-spanning competition transcending the barriers of species, biology, and reality. A few days ago, I was a disillusioned poker player who stressed about parasocial relationships on social media. Today, I was a Ninja trying to survive some twisted interdimensional card game. * * * We emerged into a clearing with a serene pond. The water was crystal clear, reflecting the soft hues of the sky and the surrounding greenery. The air sat still, the pond¡¯s surface like glass, undisturbed except for the occasional six-legged frog hopping between lily pads. ¡°That¡¯s a lot of spicy frog legs,¡± I mumbled, thinking about the buffets at the poker tournaments in Macau. My growling stomach tugged me back to reality. Cragmarr didn¡¯t hear me or my hunger. ¡°Wait,¡± he instructed. ¡°Stand back.¡± I took a few steps back, watching as the Golem waded into the water until he was ankle-deep. He dipped a clay hand into the pond and hummed, a deep, melodic sound you¡¯d hear in a monastery. Our surroundings resonated as ripples emanated from where he stood. The water frothed and rose, a shape emerging¡ªanother Golem made of water, mud, and seaweed. The water Golem surged toward Cragmarr, its swampy arms reaching out to attack. Cragmarr flicked his wrist to load a Jingozi card and threw it at his feet while jumping to propel himself backward. He dodged and rolled onto the shore. The water Golem¡¯s attack missed with a giant splash, tossing several fish and crabs onto the ground. And after a moment, it retreated. ¡°Quickly,¡± Cragmarr urged, ¡°before other creatures steal the meal.¡± I gathered the fish and crabs into my inventory while Cragmarr stood guard. Once we had enough, we found a suitable spot to make a fire. He knelt, snapped his fingers, and produced an orange-glowing Zii coin, which he placed in the kindling I¡¯d gathered. After a few hand gestures, the Zii coin burst into sparks, lighting the twigs and dry grass on fire. ¡°That¡¯s a cool trick,¡± I said. "Try it," he said. "Focus your Zii and snap your fingers." It took a few tries, like lighting an old Zippo lighter, but eventually, I got it. A Zii coin made of shimmering crystal with a heart symbol materialized in my fingers, glowing red to reflect my faction. "Close your palm to reabsorb it," Cragmarr continued. "Other living beings can absorb it, even inanimate objects made of organic material. Each coin is imprinted to your Zii frequency, like a human fingerprint. But be careful not to deplete your Zii pool." "Other than light fires, what can I do with these?" ¡°You will learn. For now, let us cook.¡± Cragmarr cleaned the fish and prepared the crabs. Not bad for a creature that never eats. He skewered the fish on sticks, set them over the fire, and placed the crabs on a flat stone within the flames. The aroma filled the air, making my mouth water. ¡°They smell delicious,¡± I said, my stomach growling in anticipation. ¡°What was all that about in the pond? Friend of yours?¡± ¡°Earth-based Golems can provoke water Golems. It is a natural reaction. We use this to our advantage when necessary.¡± ¡°And that move you pulled?¡± ¡°Yes. Use your cards with a higher defense score for different effects such as running and dodging, even non-lethal attacks.¡± As the meal cooked, we sat by the fire, listening to its crackle. Cragmarr explained there were five types of Golems: fire, earth, metal, water, and wood, which existed in harmony long before any other factions existed. When the Jingozi arrived, their faction fractured into subclasses: Primals, Blights, Hybrids, and Demi-Golems like him, who were transformed by magic to be more human-like. ¡°Why do you help the Jingozi?¡± I asked. Cragmarr turned the fish and checked the crabs. ¡°I do not do it for them. I serve all humankind¡­ I serve you.¡± I sat silent. ¡°Here,¡± he said, handing me a fish skewer and a crab leg. ¡°Better than those rations.¡± I peeled back the fish skin and took a bite, savoring the delicious, smoky flavor. ¡°Wow.¡± The fish and crabs didn¡¯t appear different from the Earth ones, yet they tasted different because of whatever Zii was. Everything here seemed so¡­ amplified, as if Earth was a muted version of this world. ¡°Thank you, Cragmarr,¡± I mumbled with my mouth around a crab claw. Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. ¡°What happened to Crag?¡± Unsure if he was serious or not, I punched him in the shoulder and pretended I had broken my hand again. * * * Cragmarr collected more wood, and after stoking the fire, he stood before me. ¡°Ember, there is something you must understand about Zii,¡± he began. ¡°Zii is the spiritual force flowing through all of time and creation¡ªthis essence of life is the thread connecting all beings across the dimensions. It is everywhere and nowhere, everything and nothing. Zii cannot be seen or touched in its raw form, yet it is the source of all power and harmony.¡± ¡°Got it,¡± I said. ¡°Zii is the breath of the universe, the pulse of creation,¡± he continued. ¡°It moves through us, bonds us, and gives us the strength to overcome any challenge. To harness Zii is to become one with the cosmos, to tap into an infinite well of energy and potential.¡± He gestured for me to stand beside him. ¡°To master Zii, you must learn the discipline of Zii-Kata. This ancient martial art is a fusion of meditation, forms, and patterns practiced by our ancestors. But when used by a Jingozi apprentice, it will help you recover spent Zii, recharge your cards, and learn new spells.¡± He took a deep breath and moved into a stance, his movements fluid and deliberate. ¡°Watch closely,¡± he instructed. ¡°Zii-Kata begins with meditation. Clear your mind and focus on the flow of Zii with every deep breath within you. Feel its presence, its flow.¡± I mimicked him, closing my eyes after a deep breath. Whatever it was I was supposed to be sensing, it was like trying to grasp smoke. ¡°Now, follow my movements,¡± Cragmarr said. He performed a series of intricate forms. I mirrored him, moving clumsily at first, but I felt something shift. The more I focused, the more I sensed a pulse of something within, syncing with my movements. Cragmarr¡¯s voice was soothing as he guided me through the patterns. ¡°Zii-Kata is not just about physical forms. It is a dance of the spirit, a way to align yourself with this dimension. As you move, let go of your thoughts. Embrace the flow of Zii, and let it take you.¡± With each repetition, every movement became more natural, more harmonious. ¡°Good,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°You are beginning to understand. Other trainers will teach you more forms of Zii-Kata. But most importantly, you will learn to become one with the fire within.¡± ¡°Thank you, Cragmarr. That was crazy.¡± ¡°Remember, Ember,¡± he said. ¡°Zii is not just power or currency for a game. It is a way of life, a path to harmony and understanding. Embrace it, and it will guide you through all trials.¡± FEAT ACHIEVED: ZII-KATA Learn and practice your first Zii-Kata pattern. Whenever you practice Zii-Kata, you recover 1 Zii and 1 Card per minute. Zii-Kata is also used to learn spells at 1 hour per spell level. ¡°Woah,¡± I said. ¡°What was that?¡± ¡°Your first feat achievement. The first of many.¡± * * * I learned that only members of a faction chosen by the Jingozi could PVP, meaning all conflict occurring outside a Jingozi match was considered PVE. PVE was, therefore, more consequential to every faction except the Jingozi. Factions participated in PVP only for the progression and rewards, while survival came down to PVE. ¡°If PVE is where the stakes are real,¡± I said. ¡°Why are we practicing so much PVP? ¡°It is part of your tutorial and allows you to learn how to PVE without consequences. In PVP, when you fail, you do not die. Until you reach level 24, PVE is the priority.¡± ¡°How do I level up?¡± ¡°By performing feats and completing quests or missions,¡± Cragmarr replied. ¡°They will become available as you undergo your trials.¡± ¡°What do you mean trials?¡± ¡°Once you gain a level,¡± he said, ¡°you must practice Zii-Kata to receive your next spell card from the Jingozi. But they must deem you worthy.¡± ¡°That¡¯s just too convenient, isn¡¯t it?¡± I muttered. ¡°Is there anything they don¡¯t control?¡± ¡°Using your Jingozi abilities, in or out of a match, always costs Zii. Unlike after a match, where you regain all your Zii and cards, the only way to recover resources from PVE is through Zii-Kata.¡± I¡¯d have to see for myself what he was saying. ¡°Last lesson for today,¡± Cragmarr said as he motioned me into the water. ¡°Through experience, you will learn how much power is required during PVE. Like this.¡± Cragmarr loaded his hand and showed it to me. He played a [3/2] card with 1 Zii to shoot his hand into the water and catch a fish. He tossed it over his shoulder and repeated another catch with a [6/5] card, which he infused with 2 Zii to make it a [12/10]. ¡°While you PVE, your Zii acts as a power multiplier. Your level determines the maximum Zii you may infuse.¡± He held up a fish. ¡°Fish are weak,¡± he continued. ¡°It makes no difference if you use a stronger battle card. Unless you have no other options, avoid wasting resources.¡± Cragmarr moved onto the shore. ¡°Now, you try.¡± At first, drawing my hand, infusing a card, and then striking the target felt awkward. But after a good dozen reps, I had it down to one fluid motion. Fish [12]: Will not spoil while kept in your inventory. Each catch put a fish into my inventory, which appeared to be a magical storage locker that kept perishables from spoiling. Cragmarr didn¡¯t have the same ability and relied on a utility belt with pouches. Much like the gift¡ªwhatever mine was¡ªhe surmised it was another way humans adapted when brought to this world. I spent another dozen cards fishing¡ªit was actually pretty fun. ¡°Teach a Ninja to fish, and you¡¯ll feed her for life,¡± I grinned. It¡¯s a good thing I like sushi. * * * After an hour of Zii-Kata, I curled up by the fire, wrapped in my Ninja scarf. Cragmarr assumed his usual sentinel position. He whispered, ¡°Ember, if you die in this world, you die in your world.¡± ¡°What?¡± I said, sitting up. ¡°Are you saying I¡¯m still there?¡± ¡°In a sense, you are. Time works differently between our dimensions. Upon your return, no matter how long you stay in this world, a mere fraction of time will have passed in yours.¡± I suddenly remembered what happened before I arrived. I was in bed, having a heart attack, and woke up thinking I was in a dream. But it wasn''t. If I ever get home, how much time will I have lost? ¡°Wait. If my body is still there, but my mind is here, whose body is this?¡± I asked. ¡°And why do I look the same?¡± ¡°I do not know. From what I could discern before the rescue, your vessel is a would-be assassin captured by the Emperor faction. The Jingozi chose your host, and now we all, including you, see her as you.¡± ¡°The Jingozi are pure evil.¡± Cragmarr turned so I could see his face by the firelight. ¡°Train and learn all your spells to grow stronger,¡± he said, ¡°But another way you can die is if three present gamemasters decree a Jingozi duel to the death. Many perish this way. Be careful with the Jingozi. They are unpredictable and without remorse. Their religion is mysterious, and their true motivations remain unclear.¡± ¡°Doesn¡¯t get much more twisted than that, I guess.¡± ¡°I am sorry, Em. This is the only way,¡± he said. ¡°You will endure much pain and sorrow. Tomorrow, I will give you the final tutorial. Then you embark on your trials.¡± Closing my eyes, I couldn¡¯t stop wondering about the woman stuck as my vessel. Sure, because of me, she survived and escaped imprisonment, but I was violating her. I don¡¯t know who you are, but I¡¯ll make this right¡­ I promise. Chapter 7. PVE Chapter 7. PVE
We stood across each other in a sea of golden grass as high as my waist. Cragmarr projected his voice above the breeze and chirping crickets. ¡°The first hand of a match during PVP, you can mulligan as many cards as needed and redraw¡ªonly once. But in PVE, you may discard cards and redraw them anytime. Remember, however, that your deck is limited, so it is wise to use all your cards as efficiently as possible.¡± ¡°Um, I think I get it. So, then, why would I want to discard cards?¡± ¡°To cycle your deck to find stronger cards.¡± "Got it. That''s kinda like cheating in poker, but I guess it''s my deck, so anything goes." "Yes. Your maximum Zii multiplier has been set to tier seven for this tutorial. Now, find your [7/7] card, infuse it with 7 Zii, and strike me." "Wait, no Jingozi arena? This isn''t a match?" "No, we are not in the arena. Therefore, this is PVE." I folded three hands and discarded four cards before finding the [7/7]. I charged it with 7 Zii, making it a [49/49] card. My body flew forward as before. This time, I attempted a double-hammer fist. My arms burst into flames as I let out a guttural war cry. Upon impact, the sonic boom pressurized my ears. Rocks and Zii exploded everywhere. I landed on Cragmarr¡¯s chest as he slammed the ground. The flames subsided while debris continued to rain down. ¡°Cragmarr!¡± I shouted, sprinting towards him as he crumbled onto his back. I tripped over my feet and tumbled down beside him. He opened his eyes and grinned. ¡°Oh my God, Crag!" I yelped. "I thought I killed you!¡± Cragmarr stood up and cracked his neck. "You did well, Em. Now here is your last lesson. During PVE, the more you multiply your attack score, the more Zii you risk, making your offense more potent. However, if you want to affect the environment or a defensive tactic, play your cards with a higher defense/reward score. The reward is a stronger effect." "Like how you used a card to jump back from that water Golem? Let''s say you had a [5/1]. It''d be better to play it as a [1/5]?" Once again, you prove why your experience with games in your dimension increases your chances of success in Jingozi," he beamed. "Your tutorial is complete. Let us replenish your resources.¡± QUEST COMPLETE: JINGOZI TUTORIAL Complete the Jingozi tutorial. LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: I [Iron] Rank 9 Cragmarr led me in the Zii-Kata pattern to recover my Zii and cards. After about ten minutes, my mind went black. Regaining my senses, a spell card appeared before me. "Um, is that supposed to happen?" I asked. Cragmarr hunched over, brow furrowed, and examined the card. "No," he said dubiously. "I have never encountered this before. We should¡ª" I touched it. Before either of us could react, a red blur of smoke streaked toward me. A shadowy red Ninja materialized and buried a fist into my chest. Cragmarr attempted to tackle the apparition, but his body passed through it like vapor, sending him tumbling. Intense pressure radiated through my body, so overwhelming blood seeped from my eyes, nose, and ears. I vomited blood, the dark crimson splattering across my attacker. But the blood wasn¡¯t just blood¡ªit was acid. Burning through the ninja¡¯s mask, the acid revealed a face that was the spitting image of mine. I stared into the eyes of my doppelganger before her flesh began to sizzle and corrode, melting away until she was nothing more than a puddle of steaming ooze. The vision snapped away as fast as it had come, and I found myself on the ground, clutching my chest and gasping for air. My heart pounded in my ears. Cragmarr was at my side, cradling my head. He said something, but it sounded all garbled. I fought to stay conscious, but the world blurred and darkened. When I awoke with an unbelievable migraine, Cragmarr was holding me in the same position. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A POWER CARDThis tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. Blood Strike ¡°Woah¡± I groaned. "What the hell was that?" ¡°I do not know," he replied. "That was most concerning." "That wasn''t part of the tutorial?" "No." * * * After checking my inventory, I noticed a new tab next to my card deck. It was labeled with a question mark, like some error. Lying on my back, I stared at my new power card, still groggy. Blood Strike ¡°Plus one?¡± I said. ¡°After all that? I thought I was going to die.¡± Cragmarr sat on a log beside me, hunched over in a thinking pose. His eyes narrowed, and he frowned in contemplation. ¡°It is perplexing, indeed,¡± he said. "The Jingozi did not inform me that you would receive additional cards. Unless¡­" I ignored his musing and ranted on. ¡°I have a tee shirt that says, ¡®I WENT TO VEGAS, AND ALL I GOT WAS THIS LOUSY SHIRT.¡¯ That¡¯s what this is, Crag. Know what I mean?¡± ¡°No, I do not.¡± ¡°Of course you don¡¯t! You don¡¯t wear shirts, and I had to go through that hell!¡± "I think it is best that you do not speak of these new powers, not even the Jingozi," he said. "Others will not know you are from another dimension. Revealing these extra abilities will only make you a more significant target." "What should I do if it happens again?" "I think you should receive them as gifts. There must be more at work here than we understand now." "Think it will be like that every time?" ¡°Most likely. But it appears it is getting easier for you. You were only unconscious for two hours this time.¡± ¡°You¡¯re one of those ¡®glass half-full¡¯ guys, aren¡¯t you, Crag?¡± ¡°Yes, I am. Thank you.¡± * * * The plan was to head south through the mountains into Samurai territory. The Ninja faction hid amongst Samurai villages, and I was to find them to continue training. ¡°To win a Jingozi tournament, you must learn the strategies of every other faction,¡± Cragmarr told me. "You must also know that every player must possess a champion card to win. In your world and game of poker, you can consider them the royal cards." An instruction screen popped up in my vision. CHAMPION CARDS J - Jester [8/8] Q - Queen [9/9] K - King [10/10] A - Avatar [0/0] "Beyond the strength of their attack and defense, each champion may also provide bonus abilities during PVP and PVE," he added. "Got it. How do I get champion cards?" "They will reveal themselves as you progress through tiers and ranks." "Got it. Anything else I should know?" ¡°Your tutorial is done. I can no longer assist you.¡± I really didn¡¯t like the sound of that. * * * After clearing camp, we trekked south for two days, making casual small talk. Cragmarr knew a surprising amount of our history, from the Roman Empire to 9/11, which gnawed at me. How many times has he done this? By that time, I was sick of fish. I¡¯d chew on a little jerky ration every night, pretending it was steak. Cragmarr taught me to forage for wild berries with flavors like energy drinks. A jumbo mushroom tasted like a sponge cake with herbs. He offered to hunt for us, but I declined. The thought of killing and eating a living thing with my bare hands made my stomach turn. The forest became dense with jagged piles of bamboo stalks, making the path so treacherous that Cragmarr hoisted me onto his shoulders. And the bugs were getting weird¡ªsome resembled butterflies made of toothpicks, while others were flying beetles reminding me of miniature attack helicopters. He set me down on a rock by a river, and after a quick breather, we followed the stream. The bamboo was so tall I couldn¡¯t see past either bank. It was scenic and ominous at the same time. ¡°Once we enter the mountains, you must go alone,¡± he instructed. ¡°Complete your quests during the day and light three fires at night before you sleep. That will signal the other factions not to interfere with your Jingozi trials.¡± ¡°Trials?¡± I asked, stopping. Without breaking stride, he continued, ¡°Yes. The Jingozi will put obstacles in your path¡ªtests. The better you do, the faster you will level.¡± ¡°How will I know where you are?¡± ¡°You will not know. But I will know where you are at all times.¡± ¡°How, exactly?¡± ¡°The Golems surrounding you will communicate with me. Some will only observe, while others will be less¡­ friendly. Be careful and trust nothing. You will¡ª¡± I jumped in front of him. ¡°Are you serious?¡± ¡°Yes, these are your trials,¡± he said, pointing behind me. ¡°Ember, Jingozi apprentice of the Ninja faction, you start now.¡± I turned to see a giant cliff just past the bamboo line. NEW QUEST: THE TRIALS Survive 40 days of PVE with no assistance from your tutorial guide. Prove yourself worthy as a Jingozi dealer. Earn Jingozi tokens as currency to complete your quests. [0/40] Days Complete I burst into tears. * * * I don''t know how long I''d been sitting on that rock, sobbing like a baby. It was frankly embarrassing. Get a hold of yourself, Ember. Tears fell onto my Ninja uniform while the wind whipped my red hair around my face. The composure I''d managed to maintain up until now had utterly shattered, leaving me feeling raw and exposed in a way I hadn''t experienced since leaving Tokyo behind all those years ago. Ironically, I never had issues being alone as a kid. It served me well, mainly because poker is a solo sport. On one hand, we¡¯re constantly surrounded by chatty people. But on the other hand, when the pots reach six figures, we¡¯re never more isolated. Players scrutinize every decision and twitch, waiting for you to drop the poker face and betray your hand, even for a split second. Having been on my own for six years, I preferred it and was proud of my independence. But the prospect of being alone for forty days in this world was about to break me. Cragmarr stood in silence. He didn¡¯t try to console me. Some might say his approach was cruel, but the more likely explanation was he¡¯d been through this before. Through swollen eyes, I calculated my direction by the sun. The river flowed south. I started walking. Cragmarr watched silently as I disappeared downstream. * * * After another hour or so, the regret sank in. I considered turning back, but it was getting dark. I had to find shelter and light three fires. What the hell is wrong with you, Em? Why do you have to be such a bitch? The day I left my Japanese family, they stood on the platform as I left Tokyo by train¡ªnobody said a word. I hadn¡¯t been back since. I¡¯m such a shitty person. I found a small opening between the rocks and squeezed into a pocket. It was cramped, but it would do. I didn¡¯t have the energy to light one fire, let alone three. If I¡¯m gonna die tonight, whatever. Put me out of my misery, at least. After wrapping myself in the silk scarf, I closed my eyes. Chapter 8. BLOOD Chapter 8. BLOOD
Day [1/40] People died in the Vegas desert from exposure all the time. But I hadn¡¯t frozen to death by morning. I squinted as a ray of light shone into the crevice. But something was off. My back was hot. I placed my palm on the stone behind my head and noticed it was oddly warm. The cliffside behind me suddenly rumbled. A ghostly groan echoed as everything shook violently. I dove head-first between the rocks and rolled to the river¡¯s edge. Behind me, a mountainous figure arose, no longer camouflaged by the side of the cliff. An enormous hand erupted from the wall, swiveling in my direction. What do I do? Fight? Run? I loaded my hand of Jingozi cards. HAND: [1/1] [4/4] [6/1] [BLOOD STRIKE +1] [1/7] The technique Cragmarr used to escape the pond Golem would have to work for me. I loaded the [1/7] card for a higher defense score. Running as hard as I could, the ground darkened. Based on the looming shadow, I calculated the timing and leaped into the air at the last moment, flinging the card downward at my feet. A burst of energy launched me forward as the hand slammed into the ground behind me, followed by a stone avalanche. Upon landing, energy surged into my legs, making each stride faster and faster. Stones pelted my back, but somehow, the boulders missed. Zigzagging, I dodged more jagged rocks, like I had eyes in the back of my head. But that meant I wasn¡¯t paying attention to my feet. Tripping over myself, I face-planted into the raging river, my cheek bouncing off a cold rock. The water muffled my scream as it rushed down my throat and nose. The white-water rapids took me downstream. Straining my head above water to gasp for air, my back crashed into another stone, winding me and pulling me under again. Disoriented, my chest convulsed as I swallowed more water. * * * I found myself lying on a dark, glassy floor. The air shimmered around me as lights danced overhead. Sitting up, I peered around¡ªit was the Jingozi arena. ¡°Am I dead?¡± After standing up, I looked down, and there I was, a copy of me drowning face-first in the river. How is this possible? I double-checked my surroundings, confirming I was in the Jingozi arena. But how? It wasn¡¯t a match, and Cragmarr never mentioned the possibility. I paced in a circle around my body. This means I¡¯m still in the river, but time is frozen. ¡°Welcome,¡± a man¡¯s voice scared the shit out of me. Spinning around and squinting into the darkness, there was no one there. ¡°Um, hello?¡± ¡°Hi.¡± The voice was deep and calm, with a quality verging on whimsical¡ªthe kind that could lull you to sleep with a bedtime story. ¡°Are you a Jingozi?¡± I asked. ¡°Oh no, sorry to disappoint you,¡± the voice chuckled. ¡°They don¡¯t even know I¡¯m here, although I¡¯m sure they have their suspicions.¡± ¡°Some sort of AI, then?¡± ¡°Nothing artificial about me at all. Although I have been accused of the intelligent part.¡± ¡°What are you then?¡± ¡°That depends on you.¡± ¡°A ghost in the machine?¡± ¡°I can work with that, for now anyway.¡± ¡°Okay, so how did I get here?¡± I asked. ¡°Well, the Jingozi can only use this plane of existence for their game,¡± he replied. ¡°The fact you¡¯re here otherwise means you¡¯re special. This is your unique gift.¡± ¡°You mean nobody else can do this¡­ gift?¡± ¡°You¡¯d be the first in a very long time. Nobody knows about it either unless you tell them, of course.¡± ¡°None of this makes any sense,¡± I sighed. "I know, and I''m sorry about that. But here''s something to help you get started." A notification blinked into my vision. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A POWER CARD Evolve Increase any 0 on your card by +1 for every Zii paid. "And remember, what Cragmarr said is true," the voice added. "Nobody knows about these power cards, just like your gift. You can share freely, but I''d take his advice and be careful." "Huh? All these are from you? Why?" ¡°All in due time, Ember Lynn. We mustn''t overwhelm you with everything that''s happening as is. While I¡¯d love to chat for a while, I believe you have more pressing concerns.¡± ¡°Wait, how do you know my full name¡­¡± The voice was gone, and I was back to the gravity of my situation. How was I supposed to get out of this jam? If I somehow managed to return to my body, I¡¯d drown. But if I stayed here, I¡¯d be stuck in time. I noticed something reflected in the smooth obsidian floor. At first, it was a translucent image. But after a little focus, I saw the river and surroundings mirrored on the floor. With more concentration, the image improved until it showed every detail in HD.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. I could also manipulate the image like a giant 3D interactive display. It allowed me to zoom in and out, pan and rotate perspective. It was the ultimate control over every camera angle, except everything was reversed, like a mirror. What if this was like hitting the pause during a video game? Taking a few steps down the river, I found the opportunity¡ªan overhanging tree branch downstream. ¡°Let¡¯s see if this works.¡± I loaded my cards. Hand: [1/1] [4/4] [6/1] [BLOOD STRIKE] [5/2] During PVE, you automatically draw the next card, so I was back to five in my hand. I chose the [6/1] card and spun it to make it a [1/6]. Now, how do I get back? Cragmarr once used the term ¡°anchor image.¡± So, I laid down in the position of my suspended self. It worked. Like hitting play on a paused video, I was again submerged and taken by the punishing current. I twisted underwater into a squat, planting my feet on the waterbed. Swinging my arm, I released the card downward and pumped my legs upwards. I shot like a cannon out of the water and caught the branch on the way down. * * * I must have set some record for the number of times an individual passed out and drowned in a week. Slumping under the tree, I caught my breath as warm blood trickled down my face. I felt a bloody flap of flesh dangling off my cheek. My knees were scraped and bloody, poking out from my torn pants, and my eyes stung. The scarf clung like a wetsuit. This is PVE, all right. I heard a rustling above me. ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡± Looking up, it was the silverglint. We stared at each other. ¡°Here, kitty, kitty,¡± is all I could think of through the brain fog. Tying its long, scaly tail on the branch, it lowered itself and sniffed my face, which would¡¯ve tickled if it wasn¡¯t so numb. I tried to smile, but my cheek stung too much. A long, slender tongue extended out to lick the gash on my cheek, leaving a sticky trail of warm salvia. I expected pain, but the wound tingled as the cut closed. The skin flap dried into a scab, which dropped off my face like an old, crusty bandaid. ¡°Okay, I admit that was pretty cool.¡± The silverglint dropped onto the ground. Wrapping its tail around my wrist, it tugged, much stronger than expected. I was pulled to my feet. ¡°Okay. I¡¯m up. I¡¯m up.¡± The silverglint would¡¯ve yanked my arm off if I hadn¡¯t run full tilt with it. It led me up a hill to a ledge, climbed onto a rock, and peered over it. After stumbling to the top, I did the same. I spotted what the fuss was about. Between the bushes below sat a cage made of twisted and thorny branches. Inside was another silverglint. There are always two, Cragmarr¡¯s voice repeated in my mind. The silverglint beside whined and drummed its tail on the rock. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, little guy. Let¡¯s go get your friend.¡± As I stood, a whistle echoed through the canyon. We both ducked behind the rock and peeked down. Seconds later, a figure walked towards the wooden cage, whistling a tune. It was a purple humanoid male with long, pointy ears¡ªan elf. He was about seven feet tall and shredded with knots of veiny muscle¡ªliterally, everywhere. His chest was bare, while dark animal skin covered his legs, complete with oversized boots reinforced with rusty metal plates. The elf¡¯s hair was jet black and shoulder length with white painted tribal markings all over his body. He looked like a steroid abuser in a heavy metal band. At first, I thought he was wearing a chain cape. But to my horror, the cape was made of four long silver-scaled tails secured by a clasp around his neck. I froze. The elf shoved a hand into the cage and grabbed the silverglint by the back of the neck, avoiding its thrashing claws. The cage animated and transformed into a praying mantis of spiny branches and thorns. It snapped and hissed. The wooden bug skittered away after the elf''s sneer and swift kick. The silverglint contorted in desperation, whipping its tail, nicking its captor¡¯s forearm to no effect. The elf kept casually whistling while pinning his catch to a rock with one hand and planting a boot on its tail. He drew a machete from the same boot and raised it in the air. Do something, Em. Now! ¡°No!¡± I shrieked, jumping on top of the rock. The elf¡¯s menacing yellow eyes met mine. And with a sinister, fanged grin, he chopped. The first and second strikes deflected off the silver armor, but the scales splintered with each blow, eventually splitting the skin to expose muscle and bone until the tail severed. The wails of both silverglints filled the canyon. Chest heaving, the elf stepped back to admire his butchery. He didn¡¯t notice me leaping down to smash 8a basketball-sized rock on his head. * * * Hand: [1/1] [4/4] [BLOOD STRIKE] [5/2] [1/3] My strongest card, a [5/2], wasn¡¯t enough. The elf brought the hilt of his blade right into my pelvis and delivered a spinning back fist to my face, sending me reeling sideways. I managed to land on my feet, but the damage was done. Dropping to one knee, I dry heaved as my left eye started to close from swelling. ¡°Thar yar,¡± it sneered. ¡°I¡¯d knoo I¡¯d find ya!¡± The accent sounded like a cross between a pirate and a demon. But before the elf advanced, the silverglint jumped between us, hissing like a feral cat. That gave me just enough time. Hand: [1/1] [4/4] [BLOOD STRIKE] [1/3] [3/2] [4/6] My newest card was a [4/7], which could be spun to make it a [7/4]. Would that be enough? A notification flashed. POWER CARD IS AVAILABLE: Blood Strike - PVP: Pay 1 Zii to attack plus +1. - PVE: Pay 1 Zii to attack plus +1. played the [7/4] with 1 Zii, activated [Blood Strike], paid another 1 Zii, and made my attack an [8/4]. The combo sparked me into action. Launching myself from a boulder, I jabbed my two fingers into the elf''s torso. The impact created twin indentations, roughly an inch in depth, yet left the surface unbroken. A crimson surge raced down my arm before bursting from my fingertips. After touching down, I tensed for retaliation. The elf stood dazed, crimson seeping into his eyes while twin wisps of scarlet mist drifted up from where my fingers had pierced his chest. His weapon slipped from his grasp, descending as if time had slowed. I tumbled forward to catch it before it hit the ground, then whirled around behind him, slashing at his lower back like a batter at home plate. The weapon plunged deep into his body until it struck what I guessed was his backbone. The elf grunted and dropped to his knees. I dislodged the machete and swung again like a lumberjack, aiming for the head. The blow landed with a squelch, spattering blood across my face. But I kept swinging with both hands until I hit nothing but air. My mind went blank until the gurgling sounds came from the elf, now flat on his face. His severed ear rolled off a stone. Blood pumped from gashes in his neck, each spurt getting weaker until it was a dribble. A scream tore from my throat before I could stop it¡ªa raw, involuntary sound driven by adrenaline, fear, and the shock of what had just happened. Ember Lynn, you just murdered someone. A slew of text flooded my field of vision. YOU HAVE DEFEATED THE DARK ELF This is a unique Jingozi mob. Reward: 4 Jingozi Tokens (based on the reward score of the cards used to defeat this mob). FEAT ACHIEVED: FROM PVP TO PVE Use your first card during PVE to defeat an enemy. FEAT ACHIEVED: FIRST BLOOD Defeat an enemy or kill your first PVE mob. LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: 1 [Ruby] Rank 8 Ignoring the notifications, I stared into nothing. The silverglint scurried to the carcass of its friend. Whimpering, it nudged and licked its slain companion. There was so much blood. * * * A scaly tug on the wrist from the silverglint snapped me out of my trance. Gathering myself, I buried the dead one by digging a shallow grave and covering it with rocks. And after observing a moment of silence, I looted the elf. YOU HAVE LOOTED A DARK ELF You receive: I hadn¡¯t noticed the four black coins floating just off the ground around the body, but I recognized them immediately. Extending my hand, they sprang into my palm and disappeared into my inventory. YOU HAVE RECEIVED: I don¡¯t know why I decided to bury the elf. Maybe guilt or shame¡ªor both. But it took much longer because of the size of the body. What did you mean you knew you¡¯d find me? With every stone I put on the pile, my frustration festered, the emotions overwhelming. Fuck you. The silverglint sat and watched, tail swishing back and forth. Fuck. You. I slammed the last stone over and over until it cracked. I hate the goddamned place. Chapter 9. KITTY Chapter 9. KITTY
FEAT ACHIEVED: FAMILIAR BOND You have bonded with an animal companion, which has now become your familiar. Only one bond may exist until your familiar dies or the bond is broken¡ªyour familiar now levels at the same rate. Silverglint [Mythical] A silverglint is a mythical creature that can "glint" at high speed for attack or defense. These creatures manifest in pairs and are considered omens of good fortune and gifts from celestial beings. However, a silverglint will only bond if the pair is broken and the bond recipient is considered worthy. Abilities: ¡°Your name is Kitty, okay?¡± We had traveled south until nightfall, setting up camp in a cave. I finished lighting three fires while munching on some rations, but the mood remained dark. I killed in self-defense. Right? I patted the silverglint on the head. ¡°I¡¯m allergic to cats in my world but always wanted one,¡± I said, half asleep. ¡°I know you¡¯re like a magical pangolin, maybe a baby dragon or something? But Kitty is your name. Got it?¡± Kitty nuzzled my face. At first, I couldn¡¯t tell if it was male or female, but it seemed more delicate than the spikier, muscular one I buried. Kitty also had slighter features, so I decided she was female. Earlier, Kitty had jumped up and draped over my shoulders for a snooze. Her scaly tail wrapped around me like an armored scarf, yet soft and warm because of the fur underside. Not that I needed it now¡ªthree fires made the cave feel like a sauna. With my hand still on her head, I dozed off. * * * Day [2/40] As I emerged from the cave, the Jingozi stood in the clearing under the morning sun. Kitty cowered behind my leg as my heart nearly stopped at its sight. ¡°It¡¯s you,¡± I said. The Jingozi¡¯s skull-like metal goat mask was even more grotesque in daylight. Name: ??? [Prophecy Dealer] Tier: VII [Obsidian] Rank ??? Faction: Jingozi [Light] In a pitiful attempt to conceal my terror, I yelled, ¡°Well? You¡¯re just gonna stand there?¡± It lifted a bony, metallic hand. I tensed, readying to use cards. ¡°Zii-Kata,¡± it whispered, like a ghost. ¡°Perfect timing, Jingo,¡± I said. ¡°I had it scheduled this morning before my Hot Girl Walk.¡± I figured it took about fifteen minutes of Zii-Kata for my Zii and cards to recharge¡ªa rate of one Zii and one card per minute. While I didn¡¯t want to spend any more time than necessary with this Halloween stalker, I got it over with. Kitty stayed at my feet the entire time, adjusting around my footwork. FEAT ACHIEVED: ZII-KATA BUFF You have used the Zii-Kata technique to restore maximum Zii. While at maximum, all physical attributes are buffed by your rank. Current buff +100% [Tier I]. The Jingozi pointed a glowing finger at me. YOUR RANK HAS BEEN PROMOTED LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: I [Iron] Rank 7 ¡°Uh, thank you?¡± I said, stumbling to my feet. ¡°You know something, Jingo? Can I call you Jingo? Never mind¡­ you¡¯re terrible at small talk, being creepy AF and all.¡± Nothing. ¡°I liked you better the other night.¡± Still nothing. ¡°Alrighty then, good talk. Come on, Kitty.¡± And we walked away. Glancing back, the Jingozi remained still, with only that damn cloak undulating randomly, continually reaching for me. * * * Later that afternoon, I stopped in my tracks. A black vortex grew before me, forming a swirling portal. On the other side, a glowing red card bobbed up and down. Son of a bitch. Here we go again. After a deep breath, I reached for the card. But before my fingers could make contact, a black, smoky hand shot out and latched onto my wrist with a vice-like grip. My forearm bubbled, the skin decaying as if ravaged by a flesh-eating disease. A wave of spasms shot up to my neck, and I clutched my elbow, squeezing tight, expecting my arm to wither and fall off. A high-pitched tone pierced my ears, and I lost vision in my right eye. I stumbled backward and crashed onto the ground, cracking my tailbone. Sweat drenched my skin, my body trembling as I lay there, overwhelmed by the agony.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. The pain subsided, leaving me gasping for breath and my head throbbing. Kitty crawled into my lap and licked my face while I stared at the notification. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A POWER CARD Warp I * * * We traveled all day with Kitty perched on my shoulder. As we walked, she seemed slightly bigger and heavier. My maximum Zii buff was active, and maybe it was my imagination, but I felt a change. My muscles appeared more defined when I flexed. My body was also heavier as if I¡¯d been on a strict workout regimen with a high-protein diet. Kitty¡¯s added weight didn¡¯t bother me, and I¡¯d never hiked this much without getting tired. Are there stats in Jingozi? A purple elf rounded the stone column¡ªI saw her before she saw us. The female elf wore leather pants and the same metal boots with bones woven into her long black braids. Her arms were painted white, while more bone piercings lined her pointed ears and dark purple nipples. Standing over six feet tall, she would¡¯ve made a supermodel back home. We met eyes as I loaded my hand. Hand: [3/4] [6/6] [0/0] [4/5] [2/1] I considered playing a [6/6] card but remembered being countered the last time. Would she do the same? I could use a weaker card and tank the first hit. Suddenly, Kitty launched from my shoulders. The silverglint flashed past the elf¡¯s thigh, tearing a wound and gushing blood. She screamed and tried to grab her weapon. Before it was unsheathed, Kitty pounced onto her back, digging her claws and wrapping her tail around the elf¡¯s body. With one violent twist, it was over. The elf fell over, spilling blood and entrails everywhere. I had no words¡ªunable to decide if I was shocked or relieved. ¡°Good Kitty?¡± While the head and legs remained intact, the elf¡¯s torso was a mangled mess. I thought about looting for supplies but started to gag. Although auto-loot was a thing, I still had to touch the body. Tapping my toe to her boot, a notification appeared. YOU CANNOT LOOT [DARK ELF] Time remaining: [60 minutes] ¡°I guess this one belongs to you,¡± I said, ¡°Come on, let¡¯s clean you off.¡± I retrieved bandages from my inventory and used them as rags as best as possible. She¡¯d find a puddle to wash off the rest later. A cracking and rustling arose from a nearby rock. A thorny wooden vine emerged, slithering to the elf¡¯s body like a worm. The vine was dead, mottled with fungus and dust. More approached from all angles, making disgusting chewing noises as they wrapped around the corpse. Backing away, I decided not to find out what happened next. * * * Day [7/40] LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: I [Iron] Rank 6 The Dark Elf attacks increased over the next week, giving me another rank. But progress was much slower than being promoted by a Jingozi. Despite our efforts to travel undetected, they¡¯d find us. But at night, with three fires lit, it was eerily peaceful. As solo hunters, the elves attempted to ambush us one at a time, sometimes hours apart. But Kitty detected them before they gained any advantage. She also turned out to be a serial killer, dispatching three elves alone. But when she did, I didn¡¯t earn any credit or loot. So, I joined the next fights, convincing myself it was still in self-defense. We defeated six more together. Every encounter differed somewhat but ended the same. Instead of tanking their initial attacks, I acted first, hitting them with various maximum-charged attacks. I did suffer damage, with one elf even breaking my jaw, though the combination of Zii-Kata and Kitty¡¯s healing ability allowed me to recover relatively quickly. But the constant game of cat-and-mouse tested my resolve. And seeing dead bodies wasn¡¯t getting any easier. As a consolation, every Dark Elf carried ample supplies, especially rations. The mountains were bare, and food was scarce. The giant fir trees covered in rotting fungus yielded nothing of sustenance, so everything helped. I also received Jingozi tokens based on the defense score of my cards during each fight. One day, we encountered strange giant bugs. NEW QUEST: VALLEY INFESTATION Kill 100 Giant Stone Golem Crawlers [0/100] Complete Giant Stone Golem Crawlers were van-sized bloated ticks made of smooth grey rock. They were highly hostile but slow. Skittering on eight comically tiny crab-like legs, we made quick work of them because they roamed in tightly bunched packs. After a crawler died, they crumbled into piles of rubble and dust¡ªno loot. Other wild mountain creatures crossed our path now and then. Some were hybrids of animals from Earth, while others appeared very alien. But they left us alone. Occasionally, I spotted a stone or tree golem standing on a ledge above us or in the distance. These Golems weren¡¯t humanoid like Cragmarr but more like kaiju in Japanese movies. Regardless of shape or size, they only watched. Unnerved, I reminded myself that Cragmarr promised to keep tabs on me. We continued to work on the rock ticks. QUEST COMPLETE: VALLEY INFESTATION Kill 100 Giant Stone Golem Crawlers [100/100] Complete FEAT ACHIEVED: 100 KILLS Kill 100 mobs or defeat 100 enemies in one quest or mission. LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: I [Iron] Rank 5 As I continued progressing, the Jingozi appeared after each rank-up. The routine was always the same¡ªhours of Zii-Kata. I¡¯d try to get a rise out of the Jingozi by being crass and snarky. But true to form, nothing happened, regardless of how much I taunted. My power card encounter occurred during a moment of isolation while setting up camp. Whoever or whatever entity was sending me those cards was clearly avoiding the Jingozi. A force slammed into my back, launching me forward. I hit an invisible wall face-first, electricity crackling through my body. Before I could recover, another impact sent me flying sideways. "What the¡ª" A new shock cut off my words as I bounced off another barrier. The impacts came faster, each collision sending waves of pain through my muscles. I tried to blink away but couldn''t focus long enough. My body pinballed between the unseen walls, each hit harder than the last. The space shrunk with each rebound. The world became a blur of motion and agony. My teeth rattled as I ricocheted between the barriers at impossible speeds. The air crackled with electricity, burning my lungs with every desperate breath. The walls closed in until I could barely move. My bones vibrated like they might shatter. The pressure increased until darkness crept into my vision. A final crushing sensation squeezed the air from my chest. Everything went black. I woke up gasping to a new notification. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A POWER CARD Force Field I My abilities and strength increased with each level¡ªthe same with my confidence. My attacks were faster and more creative, flowing together like a deadly dance I slowly mastered. I could feel the Zii coursing through my veins, making my movements sharper and my reactions quicker than I''d ever thought possible. The cards weren''t just teaching me new skills but transforming me into something more. Kitty leveled up with me, and our bond grew. She became tankier without sacrificing speed, even learning to roll into an armored ball as a defensive move. Her aggro spiked with dark elves but remained pretty docile with every other creature. I also learned more about my gift. Falling off a ledge one time, I entered the Jingozi arena mid-air to pause the fall and figure out how to land correctly using combinations of cards. It was hell on the knees, but better than the alternative. After more haphazard experimentation, I didn¡¯t need a life-or-death scenario to activate my gift. With some discipline, I learned to release my thoughts and blink at will into the arena. But though the ability didn¡¯t cost Zii, it was a mental drain with splitting headaches if attempted too often, especially in rapid succession. I named my biggest test the "ultimate parkour running challenge." Leaping off a cliff into a tangle of trees below, I knew it would take multiple trips to the Jingozi arena to land safely. I twisted my body mid-air, catching a branch and swinging to the next. I slid down a thick trunk, skimming over the surface until I touched solid ground. To an outside observer, it was all one fluid motion. In reality, I was cheating¡ªblinking in and out, planning each step, and playing the perfect sequence of cards. It was pretty badass in my mind. * * * Day [8/40] Kitty and I cleared the mountains, reaching a ridge overlooking a valley of lush, rolling hills. In the distance, we spotted a quaint village with traditional, sloping rooftops and paper lanterns swaying in the breeze. A quick scouting trip to the Jingozi arena revealed no threats¡ªat least, what I could see. The village was tiny, consisting of four main buildings surrounded by gardens. As we approached, the village buzzed with laughter. Children ran around, their voices filling the air. There must have been dozens of them, like an elementary school during recess. Everyone stopped and stared. A girl in a traditional golden kimono approached, touching my hair with a giggle. Other children gathered, poking and prodding Kitty with ¡°oohs¡± and ¡°ahs,¡± but she didn¡¯t mind. Something was off. I glanced around, trying to figure out what was bothering me. Then I realized what it was. There wasn¡¯t a single adult anywhere in sight. Chapter 10. PRE-WASH Chapter 10. PRE-WASH
As we stood amidst a mob of gleeful children waving sparklers and chasing each other through the crowded street, an elderly Japanese woman approached. Her demeanor was serene, but her eyes were sharp and calculating, reminding me uncomfortably of the grandmothers who would exercise in the park every morning in Japan. The way she carried herself, with such deliberate grace, made me instinctively straighten my posture. Name: Yukiko [Covenant Dealer] Tier VII [Obsidian] Rank ??? Faction: Samurai [Ronin] Despite her age, she stood with grace, her long silver hair elegantly pinned up with a delicate jade pin. She wore lightweight armor of intricate leather weave and metal accents adorned with subtle floral engravings. Her presence exuded calm wisdom. ¡°I¡¯ve been expecting you,¡± she said, her voice melodic. ¡°You were?¡± She bowed slightly. ¡°Come, let us have tea,¡± she beckoned. ¡°And goodness, you could use a proper meal.¡± We walked to a modest house with a thatched roof, the aroma of herbs and spices wafting through the air. Inside, the ambiance was cozy, with wooden beams and paper lanterns casting a warm glow. We sat at a low table, and she poured steaming tea into delicate cups. ¡°I¡¯m Ember.¡± She smiled knowingly. ¡°I know my child. I am called Yukiko. The Jingozi sent word of your pending arrival.¡± Some children wearing aprons stepped in with plates of food. Yukiko embraced them before shooing them away. The tea was fragrant and soothing as we enjoyed a meal of rice, vegetables, and fish. I couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Why are there only children here?¡± ¡°They are Samurai sent to learn the ways of Jingozi. Our tradition is to nurture their skills and wisdom at a young age.¡± I glanced at the children playing outside. Some were now laughing and dancing around Kitty as she imitated them on her hind legs. ¡°But I¡¯m not Samurai,¡± I said. ¡°My faction¡ª¡± ¡°What you are makes no difference,¡± Yukiko interrupted, her voice firm yet gentle. ¡°What is important is the Jingozi sent you. I am but one guide on your path.¡± The room fell silent as I processed her words. * * * ¡°Yes, Ember, your hunters are the Dark Elven¡ªa race of elves that lived within the mountains for centuries until the Jingozi lured them out. Of all our kind, they adhere most to Jingozi beliefs.¡± Yukiko and I walked through the grass on the outskirts of the village. Kitty was draped on my shoulders as usual. ¡°Like a cult,¡± I said, confirming my suspicion they played a part in my Jingozi trial. ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°What about those tree tentacles?¡± ¡°Corrupted wood Golem,¡± Yukiko answered. ¡°A Blight¡ªanother class. They feed on the dead until nourished enough to take a more dangerous form.¡± ¡°And you know I¡¯m not from your world?¡± ¡°Yes. You are humankind from a dimension called Earth.¡± ¡°Aren¡¯t you human?¡± ¡°We might look human, but we are certainly not the same as you,¡± Yukiko chuckled. ¡°But we are compatible. The Jingozi arranged it that way.¡± ¡°Is that why we speak the same language?¡± "Not at all," she replied. "At this moment, we are actually speaking in Jingozi Common. But since you inhabit a local vessel from this realm, your mind processes everything in your language. The system is built to make communication feel natural. Even our idioms and cultural phrases get translated into something you can relate to as much as possible." ¡°How do you know so much?¡± ¡°I am a faction trainer, and a dealer like you,¡± she said while linking arms. ¡°My role is to guide and train the Samurai in Jingozi.¡± ¡°But you¡¯re a Ronin?¡± ¡°I have no master like a true Samurai. My faction does not fully accept me because I serve the Jingozi by teaching their ways. Yet, the Jingozi know I will never be loyal to them.¡± She looked into the sky before continuing, ¡°The Jingozi are zealots, religious fanatics who know nothing about honor and only serve themselves.¡± We circled the village once more in silence. ¡°Come, Ember,¡± she said. ¡°Rest for the night. Tomorrow, your training begins.¡± The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. * * * Day [9/40] Training turned out to be nothing like I expected. Instead of Jingozi matches, I sat cross-legged behind a small table in a classroom filled with children. Cragmarr had explained the Samurai faction prized intellect above all, and now I could see why. My young, over-achieving classmates took notes during Yukiko¡¯s lecture while I struggled to keep my eyes open, feeling every bit like the college dropout I was. Yukiko spoke at length about the various factions and their distinct approaches to Jingozi. The Ninja faction, she explained, was the most straightforward, relying on damage, strategy, and cunning. Ninjas were always the first to sacrifice their Zii in pursuit of victory. In contrast, the Golem faction, like Cragmarr, favored defensive tactics and counterattacks, rarely competing in Jingozi tournaments due to their more passive natures. The Samurai prioritized tactical combos, honing their card strategies with meticulous precision. Of all the factions, they were the most militarized and technologically advanced, second only to the Jingozi. Their armor, made from Zii-imbued alloy forged from metal Golems, was a testament to their blend of tradition and innovation. Next, Yukiko described the Monk faction, which consisted of dissidents who had rejected their former allegiances to seek monastic harmony with nature. Their approach to Jingozi was deeply spiritual. They used Zii magic to unleash powerful attacks and defenses reflecting their desire for balance. The northern factions, the Amazons and the Emperors, were formidable in their own right. The Amazons, fierce women warriors, were military tacticians with versatile attack, defense, and magic strategies. They maintained a fragile alliance with the Emperors, whose dominating Jingozi style focused on draining opponents¡¯ Zii for victory. The Emperors utilized a combination of magical attacks and armies of knights during gameplay. When we mercifully broke for lunch in the mess hall, Kitty opted to hunt in the fields. As I slurped down a bowl of tasty noodles, I couldn¡¯t help but notice how well-behaved and orderly the children were. In any other setting, one adult to dozens of kids would have been a zoo, but everyone knew their roles here, contributing like a young military operation. They also looked adorable in their gold uniforms and headbands. Despite the youthful enthusiasm, the tension I felt upon arrival lingered. Everything seemed a little too disciplined as if it was all a performance. Yukiko¡¯s cheerful voice interrupted my thoughts. ¡°Goodness,¡± she said. ¡°You could use a bath.¡± Spinning around, I didn¡¯t hide my excitement. ¡°Yes, please!¡± * * * Yukiko led me to the secluded hot springs nestled in the heart of the cliffs overlooking the village. Steam rose gently from the crystalline water, surrounded by smooth stones and lush greenery. She disrobed, revealing how fit she was for a woman that could¡¯ve been my grandmother. After a moment of self-consciousness, I joined her, tossing my Ninja clothes into a pile. As I slipped into the warm embrace of the springs, relief spread over every inch of my body. The soothing heat seeped into my muscles, easing the tension and soreness from a week of relentless threats and travel. Kitty dipped her tail in the water, decided it was not for her, and rolled up to nap in a tuft of grass. I closed my eyes, letting the water carry away the grime and fatigue. The soft sound of bubbling springs and the faint scent of minerals filled the air, creating a tranquil vibe. Beside me, Yukiko relaxed. I was never a fan of spas in Vegas. But here, the warmth enveloped me like a gentle hug, melting away the stress. ¡°Are there more of us?¡± I asked. "Vessels, like me?" ¡°Many of you are identified in your dimension but are not all summoned.¡± ¡°But some are here? Right now?¡± ¡°Possibly,¡± Yukiko leaned forward and massaged her neck. ¡°We believe the Jingozi pay a dear cost to bring you here. We do not know why they do." ¡°Did the Jingozi show you how all that works?¡± ¡°No, they obscure their designs with protective secrecy,¡± Yukiko replied, gazing at me. ¡°We know this because once you leave, your host will inherit your progress as a gift. Everything you have done will seem like a dream to her, which we document and interpret. That is how we learn about the Jingozi, hoping that someday¡­¡± Yukiko paused to gaze at me with glimmering eyes. ¡°Someday what?¡± I asked. ¡°As you say in your world, let us cross that bridge when we come to it.¡± ¡°But wait. You mean the woman hosting me is rewarded?¡± ¡°Yes. If you live and the vessel is not irreparably damaged, she will be a powerful warrior,¡± Yukiko said, flexing her bicep playfully. ¡°She will continue as a Jingozi dealer and achieve higher titles on behalf of her faction.¡± "Dealer titles?" "Yes, you are the lowest, and each level grants greater Jingozi privileges. Let me show you." My interface lit up with text. JINGOZI DEALER TITLES You must achieve multiple feats and claim the title from an existing player to receive a new title. Level 1: Doctrine Dealer Level 2: Divine Dealer Level 3: Prophecy Dealer Level 4: Covenant Dealer Level 5: Judgment Dealer Level 6: Arch Dealer Level 7: Paradox Dealer "Everything seems to be built around the number seven," I remarked. "Very astute," Yukiko replied. "It is the Jingozi way and part of their spiritual beliefs. To them, each title represents a commitment and responsibility that transcends all other ways and beliefs." I wasn¡¯t sure how I felt about all that. ¡°But hang on,¡± I said. ¡°What does it mean to be chosen?¡± ¡°Chosen to play Jingozi. Why do you think all these children are here? They are all Jingozi apprentices.¡± I felt a shiver despite the warmth. ¡°Wait, what? You all volunteer for this?¡± ¡°Yes. It is the Jingozi way.¡± ¡°What the actual¡ª¡± I caught myself before triggering the language filter. "I still don''t understand how any of this is possible. A little over a week ago, I was an introverted retired poker player with social anxiety. And now I''m a Ninja fighting¡­ killing¡­" ¡°Why is that so strange?¡± she asked. ¡°When you play what you call ¡®video games¡¯ in your dimension, are you not taking control of an avatar?¡± ¡°I guess.¡± ¡°Is it so hard to believe then, Ember? Considering what you now know about Zii and Jingozi technology?¡± I thought about all the hours playing World of Warcraft. Yukiko hopped onto the side of the pool. As she laced up her armor, she caught me staring at my heap of dirty clothes¡ªtattered rags. They were beyond filthy, with holes and tears. Understanding my predicament, she filled a bucket with spring water and scrubbed my uniform. When she was done, she plopped the freshly cleaned garments into a soaking pile on the rock, the water running dark with the grime she¡¯d managed to wash away. ¡°I¡¯m going to turn into a prune waiting for those to dry,¡± I said. ¡°Here is a lesson,¡± she said, snapping her fingers to form a glowing gold Zii coin. ¡°Remember, Zii is everywhere and in everything. You can use it to charge your cards, but you can also do this.¡± Yukiko placed the Zii coin on top of my uniform. With a few hand gestures, channeling her Zii-Kata, the coin glowed brighter, its light spreading across the fabric. It melted into the cloth, the glow intensifying before fading. When the light subsided, my garments were transformed¡ªfresh and pristine, as if they¡¯d been picked up from the dry cleaners. Every hole and tear vanished, as good as new. ¡°How?¡± I said. ¡°Zii is a universal resource. But as a Jingozi dealer, you can harness its power in many ways if creative.¡± ¡°Then why go through the trouble of scrubbing first?¡± I asked. ¡°Pre-wash?¡± ¡°To conserve,¡± she said while finishing up with her gear. ¡°The more you can do without Zii, the less you need. Always be mindful of your resources.¡± ¡°Cragmarr does the same trick when he cooks¡ªfish and crabs mostly.¡± ¡°That makes me hungry. We shall eat, and then you rest,¡± Yukiko stepped on the path to the village. ¡°No more lectures. Tomorrow, the real training begins.¡± I stayed, scrubbing stubborn stains on my skin while admiring the view. The bath was better than expected, and I was clean for a change. Tomorrow, I¡¯d get all sweaty again and probably worse. That made me laugh. This was my pre-wash. Chapter 11. NEXUS Chapter 11. NEXUS
From dawn to dusk, ten-year-olds¡ªhalf my size¡ªbattered and knocked me around the dojo. Utterly outmatched, my lack of skill was surpassed only by my embarrassment. Despite Yukiko¡¯s initial disappointment in my ineptitude, she remained committed. By evening, I improved just enough to hold my own. ¡°Until now, you have sparred in single matches, Ember,¡± Yukiko said, circling the room. ¡°But a Jingozi tournament is a game with six¡ªone from each faction.¡± Five youths in kendo armor wielding bamboo swords surrounded me. ¡°When you begin a match, you are taught to exchange your cards for the best possible starting hand. But so will all your opponents.¡± It wasn¡¯t an official Jingozi match, being the only official player. However, Yukiko divided her deck evenly among the boys. So, that''s what it means to be a dealer. I loaded my hand and lucked out with a [7/7]¡ªthe strongest card in the match¡ªpocket aces. The dojo erupted into a whirlwind of gold and bamboo. I somersaulted into the air, landing a kick to the back of one Samurai youth, sending him sprawling. Touching down, my sweeping kick took out another before rolling under a sword swing. The three collided in their haste for an opening. I struck two with open palm strikes, sending them skidding across the dojo floor. One last opponent remained to win the hand. He lunged, feinting with his bamboo shinai, followed by an axe kick. I sidestepped into a spinning hook kick. But he was ready, blocking my attack. His card was a [7/4], tied with my [7/7]. We circled as we selected our next card. I played my next best card, a [5/2]. My young opponent played his card and flew at me with a front snap kick. I caught his foot, which set me up. He flipped backward, catching me squarely under the chin with his foot, lifting me into the air. I came crashing down¡ªmy bottom lip split in half. His card was a [7/6], beating my [5/2]. ¡°Enough,¡± Yukiko commanded. She crouched beside me, lifting a finger under my chin. My lip stung like hell, welling with blood. ¡°What did you learn?¡± ¡°When the match begins, there¡¯s a higher probability all players have strong starting hands,¡± I said. ¡°While my first card beat four, the fifth player had a seven attack, so we tied.¡± ¡°And then?¡± ¡°He had a second seven-attack card to play. I¡­ did not.¡± ¡°Good. Know the strategies and anticipate your opponents, especially their habits and patterns. They will betray themselves if you pay attention.¡± ¡°Like poker,¡± I grumbled. Kitty bounced into my lap with a squeak, licking my wound. My lip started to clot and close. ¡°Yes, in your world, there are strategies¡ªso common anyone familiar with the game would know,¡± Yukiko¡¯s eyes gleamed with intensity. ¡°But you must master the nuances, detect the subtle shifts in the energy of the battle, and exploit every weakness. Know when to hold back, strike, and mislead. Predict your opponents¡¯ next moves before they know themselves.¡± She helped me up and checked my lip. ¡°My goodness,¡± she said. ¡°The legends of the silverglint¡¯s powers are true.¡± * * * Day [10/40] As I walked through the village, enjoying the fresh morning air, a group of young samurai-in-training practiced their stances. They were all ten. Yukiko told me every child in the village was the same age. One of the boys caught sight of me and abandoned his drills, making a beeline in my direction. ¡°Hi there!¡± he said, puffing out his chest. ¡°Hello,¡± I said. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± ¡°I¡¯m Hiro. You¡¯re the famous Ember, right? Here for special training?¡± ¡°Well, I wouldn¡¯t say legendary, but yes, I¡¯m Ember.¡± ¡°I think you¡¯re so friendly. And your hair is pretty. You¡¯re like, um¡­ the friendliest and prettiest girl I¡¯ve ever seen.¡± ¡°Thank you, Hiro. That¡¯s very sweet of you,¡± I tried to keep a straight face. Hiro glanced back at his friends, who were snickering and giving him a thumbs-up. A cute girl with a gold bow in her hair was unimpressed. ¡°I¡¯ve been training to be a Samurai since I was born. Everyone says I¡¯m extra strong for my age.¡± ¡°Oh, I bet you are.¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± he flexed his tiny biceps. ¡°I can lift a whole bag of rice by myself. And I can run faster than anybody. Maybe... maybe one day I could take you out for a run around the village. I promise I won¡¯t run too fast so you can keep up.¡± ¡°That sounds like a lot of fun, Hiro. I¡¯d love that.¡± I bit my lip to keep from laughing. The young girl threw her bokken into the dirt and stormed off. Ignoring her, Hiro¡¯s face lit up. ¡°Really?¡± he said. ¡°I know all the best spots. And maybe I could teach you a few moves, too.¡± ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sure you could. You¡¯ll be a great Samurai one day.¡± He blushed, glancing back at his friends, who were now flailing with laughter. ¡°Well, back to training¡ªI need to stay sharp, you know?¡± ¡°Of course, Hiro. Keep up the good work.¡± After an enthusiastic bow, he jogged back to his group, tripping over his feet. The other boys swarmed him, teasing and laughing. Hiro grinned like he¡¯d just been crowned prom king. ¡°Ember!¡± a voice called. It was Yukiko at the top of the road. ¡°I have something to show you!¡± * * * Yukiko led me through the village to a path I hadn¡¯t noticed before. Kitty followed along but abandoned us halfway, distracted by an anthill. We wound through an exotic garden filled with vibrant flowers, pristine bonsai trees, and trickling streams that crossed our path under arched wooden bridges. The air was fragrant with blooming cherry blossoms and fresh earth.If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. We walked in silence, taking in the serene beauty. Reaching the end of the path, I saw a cave ahead, its entrance obscured by cascading ivy. In front of the cave, a natural spring bubbled up from sparkling green rocks. ¡°We call it a nexus¡ªplaces in this world where the natural Zii concentration is the most potent,¡± Yukiko gestured to the pure jade stones surrounding the spring. ¡°Legend tells us a jade Golem perished here and released its essence into the land. The Jade Golems have not been seen for a full millennium.¡± I approached the spring, feeling a strange pull. The water was crystal clear and inviting. ¡°We believe places like this contain the necessary energy to connect dimensions,¡± she said. ¡°Such as to your world, Ember.¡± I teared up at the mention of home. ¡°Drink,¡± Yukiko urged, touching the water. ¡°It will strengthen you, fortify your spirit, and connect you deeper to your Zii.¡± I knelt by the spring. Cupping my hands, I dipped them into the cool water and brought them to my lips¡ªa tingle of energy with a warm buzz spread through my body. FEAT ACHIEVED: FIRST NEXUS Discover your first nexus location and commune with it. LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: I [Iron] Rank 4 I kept my eyes closed to stay in the moment. ¡°Every nexus has the same effect,¡± she said. ¡°But some offer more.¡± ¡°What do you¡ª¡± My consciousness opened like a blooming flower. A dazzling light show exploded in my mind, accompanied by vivid tastes, smells, and sounds, making me stretch and curl my toes. ¡°Let it flow through you.¡± I moved into the new Zii-Kata routine, downloading into my consciousness. It was slower yet more rigorous and complex than the one Cragmarr taught. Instead of serenity and focus, this new form was about strength. ¡°What if I fail?¡± I said. ¡°My child, of the billions of people on Earth, why do you think you were the one brought here to our village?" She smiled and embraced me. ¡°We believe in you.¡± ¡°Thank you, Yukiko,¡± I squeezed her tightly. ¡°Wait here for a moment.¡± She walked to the cave as a Jingozi emerged from the shadows¡ªnot the Jingozi I knew, but a different one. This one''s mask looked more like a serpent or a dragon. Stunned and furious, I clenched my teeth. After some discussion, Yukiko returned. The Jingozi retreated into the darkness. Before I could protest, Yukiko knelt before me. ¡°Ember, I have arranged transport to the nearest Samurai city. It will be no more than three days¡¯ travel. There, your training will continue.¡± ¡°But, I¡¯m¡ª¡± ¡°Ninja. I know, my child. Do you have your faction token?¡± I produced it from my inventory. ¡°Good,¡± she said. ¡°Nobody must know your faction or that you are a Jingozi vessel¡ªnobody. I am sending you as a tribute.¡± ¡°Tribute?¡± ¡°Yes, as a consort for the Shogun.¡± ¡°Wait, you¡¯re selling me into prostitution?¡± I jumped to my feet. ¡°I understand how it may sound to you, but a consort is not a concubine. It is the only way you will gain passage. Ninjas are considered criminals. Do not forget our factions are at war, and if they discover you are an apprentice, they will execute you as a threat to their Jingozi ambitions. Reach the city, and your faction will find you.¡± I guess I just had to go with it. What choice did I have? And something in me desperately wanted to trust somebody since I didn''t have Cragmarr around. NEW MISSION: SAMURAI CITY Travel to a Samurai city and find the Ninja faction. A horn blast sounded from the village, and Yukiko grabbed my hand. ¡°It is time,¡± she said. ¡°Quickly, cover yourself.¡± She pulled a golden cloak from a pouch and draped it over me, clipping it with a round medallion carved with the Samurai faction symbol. The material was delicate and heavy. Kitty was nowhere in sight, but I was sure she¡¯d pop up eventually. * * * A convoy of golden Samurai waited for us at the village entrance. They were mounted on metallic robot horses. At least, they resembled horses. They stood on six legs covered with interlocking armor plates. As each plate moved, it glowed from underneath, revealing a body of molten gold. Attached to the magnificent creatures were three armored carriages. They also moved on six mechanical legs but more like insects. Intricate engravings and symbols covered each carriage. Gold banners adorned with the Samurai faction symbols fluttered in the breeze. A samurai approached and dismounted from his mechanical steed. He was tall and well-built, his armor gleaming with the same golden hue. His dark hair was tied back neatly into a top knot, and his eyes were bright with gold highlights. Name: Ryuunosuke [Divine Dealer] Tier: III [Steel] Rank 2 Faction: Samurai [Warrior] ¡°Master Yukiko,¡± he said, bowing respectfully, ¡°I am Ryuunosuke. I¡¯ve come to pick up your tribute.¡± ¡°Ryuunosuke, yes,¡± Yukiko returned the bow. ¡°I knew your father. He was an honorable and mighty warrior. This is Ember. She is my tribute to our Lord Shogun.¡± The Samurai looked stunned. Was that good or bad? For a moment, I became very self-conscious. ¡°Ember defected from the Emperors of the North,¡± Yukiko continued. ¡°A rare and exquisite beauty, would you not say? Such an exotic consort will be most pleasing to our Lord Shogun.¡± I felt nauseous. Ryuunosuke took a moment to collect himself and turned his gaze to me, his expression both curious and respectful. ¡°Ember,¡± he bowed, ¡°it is an honor. We¡¯ve traveled far to escort you. Your arrival will be highly anticipated.¡± Yukiko nudged me. I stiffened but managed to bow back. ¡°Forgive her. She is a foreigner and has yet to learn proper etiquette. But I am sure she is a quick study,¡± Yukiko said. ¡°Go to your room, Ember. You do not want to wear that for the Lord Shogun, do you?¡± * * * While staying in the village, I never took the time to appreciate my room lodgings. The walls were adorned with delicate paper screens, and a soft tatami mat covered the floor. I was going to miss it, along with Yukiko¡¯s hospitality. A dress was in the center of the room, draped over a wooden stand. The kimono was a deep crimson, its fabric shimmering with subtle, iridescent hues hinting at its magical craftsmanship. Gold embroidery lined the edges, forming delicate patterns of blossoms that moved ever so slightly as the light caught them. Long flowing sleeves flared at the wrists, and the neckline featured more gold stitching. I preferred the practicality of cargo pants and a hoodie. But running my fingers over the luxurious fabric, I couldn¡¯t hide my appreciation. The material was soft yet sturdy, and the attention to detail was beautiful. After storing the Samurai cloak in my inventory, I slipped into the white undergarments and the kimono. As the fabric settled around me, I was surprised by how comfortable it felt¡ªthe clothes molded to my body, fitting perfectly without being restrictive. I put on the red sash and moved to a nearby mirror. A smile crept onto my face. Part of me wanted to hate it but couldn¡¯t. The traditional dress made me feel elegant and empowered, a far cry from my basic Ninja uniform. I allowed myself to enjoy this gift. YOU HAVE RECEIVED NEW ARMOR Ninja Kimono [Rare] Woah. Armor? After touching it with one Zii, the kimono shimmered into a black Ninja suit with a red sash and accents, complete with a mask, boots, and gloves¡ªthe whole package. Well, this will come in handy for sure. Infusing another Zii, it transformed back to kimono mode. I twirled, watching the kimono flow and shine. Yukiko had outdone herself. I noticed something strange in the mirror¡ªI looked healthier than ever. Even with the glorious bath in the hot springs, there was no way I could look this good after weeks of exposure to sewers, dust, sweat, and sweltering sun. My face should be a coffee-stained, tanned leather saddle by now. The same thing was true for my hair¡ªfuller and more vibrant¡ªnot a split end to be found, as if I¡¯d just walked out of a salon. Am I getting prettier? Did this explain why every high-level Jingozi player looked like a model? After spending my entire adult life fussing over beauty routines, agonizing over every blemish, I didn¡¯t know how to react or feel. When I returned, Yukiko gave me a knowing glance. I acknowledged our secret with a nod and then flashed her a big grin. She put her hand over her mouth to hide her smile. ¡°Will I ever see you again?¡± I asked. ¡°As sure as fortune smiles upon us, my child, I know we will,¡± she said, embracing me. ¡°Remember everything I taught you, especially the nexus.¡± Yukiko wiped my tears and held my face. I kissed her cheek before Ryuunosuke helped me into the carriage. A silver streak shot between us, and Kitty was inside, sniffing around. ¡°And where have you been, young lady?¡± She yowled, dismissing my admonishment, far more interested in the snacks on the table. All the children gathered outside my window to bow in unison. As we lurched forward to depart, they broke rank to run alongside the carriage, shouting and waving goodbye. I stuck my arm out and waved back. Sinking into my seat, I took a deep breath, observing the blend of luxury and practicality within my transport. The interior was lined with plush cushions upholstered in golden silk, embroidered with dragon patterns. Polished wood lined the walls, giving the space a warm, inviting feel. Paper and bamboo lanterns hung from the ceiling, casting ambient light to highlight the delicate artwork. A bonsai tree in a pot sat on a dark, lacquered wood chest in the middle of the carriage. Small compartments and shelves were built into the storage units along the wall, stocked with scrolls, ink brushes, and other writing supplies. The carriage rocked onward as I settled in and closed my eyes. * * * I awoke to Kitty scratching at the doors on the side of the chest. She jumped as banging came from the inside. I armed a knife and loaded my hand. The banging got louder as I pulled on the latch. The doors burst open, and a boy in gold rolled out, putting up his hands in surrender. ¡°I¡¯m sorry!¡± Chapter 12. HIRO Chapter 12. HIRO
¡°What are you doing here, Hiro?¡± ¡°I wanted to come with you.¡± ¡°You can¡¯t just stow away like this.¡± ¡°Please, Ember,¡± he pleaded. ¡°I want to help! I promise I can be useful.¡± I sighed, glancing at Kitty, already curled up in Hiro¡¯s lap. What could be the harm? It was too late to turn around anyway. ¡°Alright, Hiro. You can stay. But do exactly as I tell you. Deal?¡± The carriage lurched to a stop. The door swung open, and Ryuunosuke¡¯s stern face appeared. ¡°Out. Now.¡± I stepped out of the carriage, Hiro following behind me, clutching my sleeve. Ryuunosuke, still on his mount, grabbed the boy by the collar and lifted him off the ground. ¡°What is the meaning of this?¡± Ryuunosuke demanded. ¡°What did you do?¡± Hiro¡¯s eyes welled up with tears. ¡°I just wanted to help... I wanted to be useful¡­¡± ¡°Do you understand what you¡¯ve done? Who is your father?¡± Ryuunosuke shook him. ¡°Wait, I recognize you. You¡¯re Takeshi¡¯s son.¡± Hiro sobbed, unable to speak. ¡°Stop it. He¡¯s just a child,¡± I stepped forward. Ryuunosuke¡¯s gaze snapped my way, his expression unyielding. ¡°This child has brought shame to his family. Do you understand the consequences of his actions?¡± ¡°He came because of me,¡± I matched his glare. ¡°I told him to hide in the carriage. He¡¯s my responsibility.¡± ¡°His father is a Samurai and was chosen to send his son to learn the ways of Jingozi,¡± he set Hiro down. ¡°It is a great honor and responsibility to carry the future of our faction. But by dishonoring us in such a way, the Shogun will decide if the entire family must be executed. Yukiko will also be punished.¡± ¡°All for a game? You can¡¯t be serious.¡± Ryuunosuke¡¯s expression softened. ¡°The Jingozi will seek retribution if Yukiko cannot deliver the offering. And our faction values honor above all else. Such a disgrace cannot go unpunished, or many more will die.¡± ¡°Please, don¡¯t hurt my family!¡± Hiro sobbed louder, pulling on Ryuunosuke¡¯s boot. ¡°It¡¯s my fault, not theirs!¡± The rest of the caravan gathered to gawk. There were three carriages, twelve Samurai on armored mounts, and roughly another dozen staff of men and women. Ahead of us, the road crossed into a dense forest of tall pine trees. ¡°How is this fair?¡± I asked. ¡°What does a runaway Emperor girl know about fairness? Your faction oppresses everybody in your land.¡± ¡°And this is any better?¡± I pointed at Hiro. ¡°I could execute you right now for your insolence. Remember your place.¡± I caught myself before unleashing a litany laced with profanity I knew I¡¯d regret. ¡°Come on, Hiro, we¡¯ll figure something out without this asshole.¡± * * * Day [11/40] After entering the forest, we made camp. Pine trees loomed overhead, their branches intertwining to create a canopy in the sky. Ryuunosuke rode ahead to scout. ¡°Stay here,¡± I told Kitty. Hiro finally slept after crying all night. Seizing my chance, I crept to one of the mechanical horses tied nearby. It had been a hot minute since I rode a horse, let alone one with six legs powered by magic. Climbing onto the steed was challenging, but I secured myself. Come on, Em, you can do this, just like all those times at summer camp. Urging it forward, the robot horse sprang into action, its legs moving in a rhythmic pattern. I gripped the reins, struggling to stay balanced as it galloped through the forest. Ryuunosuke was ahead, on foot. I slowed to a trot, then dismounted behind him. He turned and glowered at me. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± he asked, keeping his voice low. ¡°Listen, we¡¯re going to get something crystal clear. You¡ª¡± Ryuunosuke dragged me down behind a pile of logs, the blade of his katana flashing in front of my face. His gloved hand covered my mouth. I felt the eerie silence¡ªno birds, no rustling leaves, just an unnatural stillness. Ryuunosuke leaned in, ¡°Be quiet. Golems.¡± He removed his hand. ¡°They¡¯d never be so bold.¡± ¡°Why would they attack us?¡± I asked. ¡°Are you not aware we are at war? Your faction and mine, the Golems, Ninja, and others. We are all enemies.¡± ¡°I¡¯m not from around here.¡± ¡°Clearly,¡± he said, his eyes darting back and forth. His face stiffened. ¡°Do not move.¡± I fought the temptation to load my hand, which would reveal my identity. Ryuunosuke¡¯s eyes widened. He slashed at something behind me. A severed wooden tentacle fell, wriggling to the ground. Something else squealed and retreated through the brush. ¡°Back to camp, quickly,¡± he picked up the severed branch. It wrapped itself around the Samurai¡¯s arm, making chewing noises, and leaked black ichor, turning my stomach. His armor provided protection, but it still disturbed me. At the camp, Ryuunosuke tossed the wriggling branch into a fire. It hissed and thrashed as it bubbled and burned, sending a shiver down my neck. The other Samurai gathered with grim faces as they watched the fire consume the branch.Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. ¡°We¡¯re not alone in this forest,¡± Ryuunosuke addressed the group. ¡°A Blight is tracking us, and we¡¯re not prepared to fight if the Golems have superior numbers. We¡¯ll take another route along the waters to avoid an ambush, but it will add a week to our travel.¡± The Samurai grunted in agreement, their expressions grave. Plans were made to alter our course, and the group efficiently scrambled to action. Entering the carriage, Hiro was excited to greet me. ¡°Ember! Look what I made for you.¡± He handed me an origami flower made with white parchment paper. Without thinking, I put it in my inventory¡ªdistracted by our situation. Hiro sensed my worry as the carriage started rolling. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Hiro asked. ¡°Why are we turning back?¡± ¡°It¡¯s nothing. We¡¯re just taking a small detour. I asked for the scenic route.¡± ¡°Oh,¡± he returned to his origami. After a curious look, Kitty climbed on my shoulders and wrapped me in scales. * * * Day [12/40] Our travels continued along the river until we reached a large lake. The calm waters reminded me of the last time I fished with Cragmarr. It felt like a lifetime ago. Hiro stirred and opened his eyes. He¡¯d slept using Kitty¡¯s belly as a pillow. ¡°Hey buddy, how are you feeling?¡± I asked. He groaned and tried to sit up, eyes puffy. ¡°I¡¯ve been better,¡± he said. I helped him get comfortable, and he sat thinking before saying, ¡°Ember, I¡¯ve wanted to talk to you about something.¡± ¡°Oh? What¡¯s on your mind?¡± ¡°There¡¯s this girl back in my village. Her name is Aiko. She... she likes me.¡± I raised an eyebrow, remembering the cute samurai girl the day I met Hiro. ¡°Really? That¡¯s sweet. Do you like her too?¡± ¡°No, she¡¯s nice and all, but she¡¯s just a kid,¡± he shook his head. ¡°Hiro, you¡¯re ten,¡± I chuckled. ¡°You¡¯re both kids.¡± ¡°Yeah, but she¡¯s so immature. She always giggles and follows me around. I like someone more... mature.¡± ¡°Oh? And who might that be?¡± He blushed, his eyes darting away. ¡°Um, well... someone like you.¡± ¡°Me? I¡¯m flattered, Hiro. But you know, I¡¯m a bit too old for you.¡± ¡°I know, I know. But you¡¯re so nice and tough. You¡¯re like a warrior princess or something. Aiko could never be like that.¡± ¡°Hiro,¡± I smiled at him. ¡°Girls change and grow up in ways you don¡¯t expect. Maybe one day, Aiko will become a warrior princess herself.¡± ¡°Maybe. But she¡¯ll never be as amazing as you. I saw you fight.¡± ¡°Just give it time. If I know girls like Aiko, she¡¯ll grow into somebody you admire.¡± ¡°I guess, for now, I¡¯ll keep training and getting stronger. I¡¯m going to become a Jingozi champion.¡± ¡°I look forward to it, Hiro. You¡¯re already on your way. And thank you for the flower.¡± ¡°You¡¯re welcome.¡± Hiro beamed as we sat, rocking back and forth, but it all bothered me. Hiro and the other children were pawns to the Jingozi¡ªjust like I was. It made absolutely no sense. How does an entire world bend the knee to a religious game? A bellowing sound came from the forest. Our carriage flew into the air, spinning end-over-end. With a deafening crash, we landed upside down. Water from the lake surged through the shattered windows while shouts and growls erupted outside. The caravan was under attack. I barely made out the notification. NEW QUEST: AMBUSHED Escape the ambush and rescue the child. A jagged piece of metal jutted from my right thigh while my left foot lay twisted, pinned beneath the chest. Kitty pawed at Hiro¡¯s sleeve, but he remained motionless, floating on his back. Blood streamed from his head, mixing with the water filling the caravan. Gritting my teeth, I dislodged my foot and rolled toward the door, slamming my shoulder against it. It wouldn¡¯t budge. Bracing my back against the seat, I kicked. Pain shot up my legs as my ankle gave way, the metal shard in my thigh tearing the wound wider. The water now rising to my waist, and I looked for another exit. Kitty swam onto a shelf, but Hiro¡­ ¡°Hiro!¡± Taking a deep breath, I leaned forward and found Hiro¡¯s body submerged. I pulled him back to the surface, holding his head above water as I loaded my hand. The only way out was up. Hand: [2/2] [6/7] [2/4] [5/6] [1/3] I infused a [7/6] with one Zii and slammed it into the carriage floor. But with my injuries, I couldn¡¯t muster enough strength to plant and channel the Zii behind my strikes. I tried again three more times with a [6/5], [6/2], and [5/4]. The cards just fizzled, only making a dent. Why wasn¡¯t it working? I must be doing something wrong. Kitty escaped through the window. Taking my last breath before wholly submerged, I clung to Hiro and blinked to the Jingozi arena. * * * Injuries didn¡¯t follow me when I blinked. The metal shard in my thigh and the gaping wound vanished as if it never happened. But the mental effects¡ªany pain, fear, shock¡ªremained. I spent extra time steadying my nerves. ¡°That doesn¡¯t look good,¡± the voice said. ¡°Where have you been?¡± I asked. ¡°I¡¯ve been here the whole time.¡± I examined my reflection in the carriage with Hiro, his head still bleeding and the contents of the carriage floating around us. ¡°Any chance you¡¯d help me out?¡± I asked. ¡°I¡¯d love to. But may I ask a question first?¡± ¡°Okay,¡± I groaned. ¡°What?¡± ¡°Whose daughter are you?¡± My entire body stiffened. ¡°Are you serious right now? What are you, Dr. Phil?¡± ¡°I am serious. But I do like Dr. Phil.¡± How does he know who Dr. Phil is? ¡°Look,¡± I said. ¡°I kind of have a situation here.¡± ¡°Humor me, that situation isn¡¯t going anywhere.¡± ¡°You mean, who is my dad? Is that what you want to know?¡± ¡°Nope. I mean, whose daughter are you?¡± ¡°You mean my biological dad? Bryan? He gave me up for adoption after my mother died giving birth to me.¡± I can¡¯t believe I¡¯m talking about this right now. ¡°So I''m adopted,¡± I clenched my shaking hands. ¡°I guess I¡¯m nobody¡¯s daughter, asshole.¡± ¡°I see. That must¡¯ve been hard.¡± I had enough. ¡°Okay, let¡¯s cut the bullshit, man. Are you going to help me or not?¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Ember. We can pick this up another time.¡± ¡°If there is another time.¡± After a pause, the voice said, ¡°Jingozi isn¡¯t about what you do. It¡¯s about who you are. First, you must learn to be, and then you will know what to do.¡± ¡°Where''d you get that bullshit? A fortune cookie?¡± ¡°I believe in you, Ember, and I¡¯ll see you again soon. Remember, I¡¯m always here.¡± The voice was gone. I sat on the floor, cross-legged, opposite the image of myself. How am I supposed to BE something when I need to DO something to get out of this mess? That¡¯s when it hit me. I need to BE something else. Loading my deck, I folded and discarded cards until I found what I needed. Hand: [2/3] [5/5] [Evolve] [1/6] [0/0] Evolve Increase any 0 on your card by +1 for every Zii paid. I had no idea if it would work. With 96 Zii left, I played [Evolve] with the [0/0], spending 90 Zii, making it a [45/45]. But was that enough? Power alone didn¡¯t work before. Blinking back into the submerged carriage, my card radiated with energy. Glowing runes appeared on my body, my skin turning into metallic crystal armor. My hand sliced through the carriage floor with a few swift swipes. As the debris floated away, I grabbed Hiro, and we shot out of the water, soaring through the air before landing on the shore. As the spell wore off, I shook Hiro. I didn¡¯t know CPR or anything to save him. Let¡¯s see if this works. Loading a [1/2] card, I infused one of my last six Zii. If I could focus on the water in Hiro¡¯s lungs, I might have a chance. Palming the card in my hand, I struck his chest, stopping an inch before making contact. A wave pulsed into Hiro, causing him to spit up water and cough. Turning him on his side, the gash on the back of his head was deep. He was breathing but unconscious. QUEST COMPLETE: AMBUSHED Escape the ambush and rescue the child. I¡¯d ignored the cacophony of roars and screams from the forest until now. Pulling Hiro onto my back, I called out, ¡°Kitty!¡± But there was no response. The [Evolve] spell had pushed the metal out of my leg, cauterizing the wound while leaving a nasty scar. With Hiro piggybacked, I took off, running in the opposite direction of the caravan. We stumbled through the forest, my chest and legs burning as I searched for shelter until finding a large burrow on the side of a hill. It was empty. The burrow sloped down into a space big enough for the two of us. I slid in first and eased Hiro down. His breathing was shallow, and his face was pale. I checked him over and wrapped his head with my remaining bandages. Remembering the Samurai cloak, I pulled it from my inventory, swaddling him to keep him warm. Snapping my fingers, I produced my fifth last Zii coin, placing it on Hiro¡¯s head. After some Zii-Kata, the coin glowed red and melted into the bloody bandage. It would have to do for now. Crawling out of the hole, the forest was silent but getting dark. We had either run far enough that we couldn¡¯t hear the caravan, or it was over. My inventory, including the tinderbox, was dry. Shivering, I gathered dry wood and kindling to light three fires at the burrow entrance. Slumping beside Hiro, I fought the urge to sleep, but my eyelids grew heavy. Zii-Kata would have to wait. I drifted off with Hiro¡¯s hand in mine. Chapter 13. BLIGHT Chapter 13. BLIGHT
I woke up in time to pile more branches onto the fires. It was dark. And after ensuring the fire would last, I checked my status. STATUS: Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: 1 [Iron] Rank 4 Faction: Ninja [Field] Zii: 4/100 Cards: 16/36 Deck Upgrades: - Meta: - Attack: - Defense: - Buff: - Special: - The effects of low Zii hit me hard now that the adrenaline had worn off¡ªlike a sudden drop in blood sugar. My head spun, and my vision blurred. As shadows flickered on the burrow walls, I drifted to childhood memories, along with the trauma. I was five, maybe six when the other children at the Tokyo orphanage whispered about the possibility of being adopted. I had no such hope. The older kids told me it was my red hair and foreign features¡ªan oddity in the sea of dark-haired, brown-eyed children. It made me an outcast among the outcasts. Back then, my name was Lynn. When my biological father left me at a police station in Tokyo, the only identification was a tag on the blanket wrapped around me. I still have that blanket stored away somewhere. The orphanage staff did what they could, but with limited resources and even less patience, I learned love and attention were fleeting, conditional things. As my therapist often explained, that harsh reality shaped how I interacted with the world. Whenever a potential family visited the orphanage, hope and dread gripped me. I¡¯d put on my best behavior, wearing a mask of what I thought they wanted¡ªquiet, obedient, eager to please. But time and again, they chose someone else, usually younger. I was unworthy of love, destined to be alone. The foster homes treated us as burdens or, worse, as cheap labor¡ªthe kind of temporary parents who didn¡¯t think the state checks were adequate to tolerate us. Schools were an escape but also another battlefield. I quickly learned being different made me a target. Bullies teased and tormented, while teachers often turned a blind eye. I fought back when able, earning a reputation that isolated me further and branded me as a pariah. Friends were few and far between, and even those I made were lost in the next move¡ªor I pushed them away first, according to my therapist. The trauma of those years was a weight I carried into adulthood, even after a kind Japanese family adopted me. It made me fiercely independent but also guarded. Connections, especially romantic ones, meant letting people in. I envied those who spoke of any relationship with warmth and love. Family was a foreign concept, an ideal I saw in others but never believed I¡¯d ever experience. Looking at Hiro, he was a painful reflection of my vulnerability at his age. I reached out and brushed a strand of hair from his forehead. ¡°I got you, little buddy. We¡¯re going to get through this.¡± The night grew colder as I sat by the three small fires, grappling with my past. Hiro slept fitfully, his breathing shallow but steady. I stared past the entrance toward the forest outside, bathed in moonlight. The ground trembled, and a low, rhythmic thudding grew louder. I held my breath, peering out into the darkness. Three massive figures emerged from the dense forest, their forms silhouetted against the moon. This close, tree Golems were unlike anything I¡¯d ever seen. They stood at least twenty feet tall, their bodies composed of twisted branches, gnarled roots, and dense, bark-covered limbs. Their eyes glowed a deep orange piercing the night. As they moved, the ground shook with each step, snapping wood and crunching leaves. The first Golem towered as a mass of intertwined trunks, its arms ending in jagged branches. Moss and vines draped over its shoulders, swaying with each movement. The second Golem stood slightly smaller but no less intimidating. More compact, it resembled a heavily armored knight of living wood. Thick bark plates covered its chest and limbs, and its hands were shaped into massive wooden fists. The third Golem, the most unusual, was slender and elongated, resembling a willowy tree. Its entire body was freckled with glowing blue mushrooms. Long, thin branches extended from its back, almost like wings. Its orange-glowing eyes scanned the surroundings until gazing right into the burrow entrance. I continued to hold my breath, tense and ready. The Golems lumbered closer, their hulking forms blotting out the starry sky. Their wooden bodies creaked and groaned with the rustling of leaves.The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. As they approached the mouth of the burrow, the first Golem paused, its eyes fixated on our three fires. It tilted its head as if contemplating the meaning of the flames. The tension was unbearable. Hiro fidgeted beside me but thankfully remained silent. The second Golem joined the first, its wooden fists clenching and unclenching as it observed the fires. They stood there for what felt like an eternity, the forest silent except for the occasional creak of their limbs. I dared not move, afraid any sound or motion would draw their attention further. With its willowy blue form, the third Golem drifted closer. Its eyes glowed brighter as it examined the flickering flames. Extending a thin branch-like limb towards the fire, it stopped short of touching them. The Golems reached some silent understanding. The first turned away, followed by the second, and then the third. They moved past the burrow, retreating into the forest. The ground continued to tremble behind them. I let out a long, shaky breath. * * * Day [13/40] I woke to the first light of dawn and squeezed in a quick session of Zii-Kata, which provided a slight boost. Checking Hiro''s wound, the bleeding had stopped, but we couldn''t stay here. We had to find the others and get help. I tipped a water skin to his lips, letting a trickle into his mouth. I tied Hiro to my back, securing him beneath my kimono by knotting the sleeves. His body felt so fragile pressed against mine. Still no sign of Kitty. We left the shelter, stepping into the silence of the forest. A light fog had settled in. With the memory of the tree Golems still fresh, I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling we were being watched. Every rustle of leaves and snap of a twig set my nerves on edge. As we neared the site of the attack, the smell hit me first¡ªa sickly stench of death and decay mixed with the acrid scent of burning metal. It was like a slap in the face, almost making me wretch. But emerging from the trees, the sight before became more horrifying. The mechanical horses lay in twisted heaps, their bodies shattered and oozing molten gold. The scorched and torn ground, strewn with entrails and dismembered body parts, showed evidence of a slaughter. But the worst stood in the center of the clearing. It was a monument of twenty dead bodies, about fifteen feet tall. Wooden tentacles wrapped around the corpses of the Samurai and servants, propping up the pile. The Blight fed on them, merging into a grotesque monolith of death. Vines and slithering branches moved with menace. And those disgusting chewing noises¡­ I searched for any sign of Ryuunosuke. The bodies trapped in the Blight were unrecognizable, their faces marred with vines and twisted in agony. Ryuunosuke was a Jingozi apprentice and Samurai warrior¡ªhe might have survived. ¡°Hiro, I need you to hang in there a little longer.¡± I tiptoed around the clearing, keeping my distance from the feeding Golem. Along the edge of the carnage, a trail led away from the main site. Broken branches and disturbed underbrush suggested someone had fled that way¡ªa bloody handprint on a tree trunk and another on a rock. The trail of blood thickened the further it went. I saw the status first. Name: Ryuunosuke [Divine Dealer] Tier: III [Steel] Rank 2 Faction: Samurai [Warrior] A faint groan, barely audible over the pulse pounding in my ears, came from the brush. Pushing through a thicket, I found him. Ryuunosuke lay against a tree, his armor battered and bloodied. His sword was still in his hand, but his grip was weak. He looked up as I approached, his eyes clouded. ¡°Ember,¡± he groaned, struggling to sit up. ¡°Don¡¯t move,¡± I said, rushing to his side. ¡°You¡¯re hurt.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve suffered worse. What about the others?¡± ¡°They¡¯re gone,¡± I shook my head. ¡°The Blight... it¡¯s feeding on them.¡± ¡°Curse those monsters,¡± Ryuunosuke¡¯s face darkened. ¡°We need to get you out of here. Can you walk?¡± ¡°Wait, did you say¡ª¡± Ryuunosuke¡¯s eyes widened, looking over my shoulder. Trampling noises and a ghostly bellow erupted behind me. I turned as a mass of tangled bodies stomped toward us, its tentacle-like vines stretching ahead. The Blight had followed the blood trail. I was torn. If I used my Jingozi cards, Ryuunosuke would discover my secret. But if I didn¡¯t, it wouldn¡¯t matter. My Zii was running low, but the thought of being absorbed into that abomination... ¡°Ancient champion, I call upon you.¡± Holding up a card, Ryuunosuke was chanting. Billows of golden smoke and sparks of light poured from the card, forming a ten-foot figure before us. The smoke solidified into a giant Samurai champion. His armor was detailed with dragon motifs and mystical runes glowing with a golden light. His helmet was crowned with a gold dragon crest, its eyes burning with blue flames. A spectral aura rippled around us as he materialized, flickering with electric energy. The champion wielded a massive polearm, crackling with arcane lightning. With a thunderous roar, it charged the Blight. Each step left a trail of glowing footprints as it ran with raw magical power. My first time witnessing a Jingozi champion card in action did not disappoint. The clash was immediate and violent. The polearm¡¯s blade cut through the Blight¡¯s twisted form with a burst of light, sending Samurai bodies along with splinters of wood and dark ichor flying. The Blight recoiled, its wooden tentacles whipping to fend off the relentless assault. The champion moved with ferocious grace, its attacks a blur of motion, each strike accompanied by bursts of magical energy searing the Blight¡¯s wooden flesh. The Samurai champion continued to battle, spinning the polearm in deadly arcs. Its armor glowed brighter with each strike, forcing its enemy back toward the forest¡¯s edge. But the Golem fought back¡ªvines stitched together over every opened wound, forming a rigid plate. Its tentacles wrapped the polearm, preventing a proper blow. Ryuunosuke¡¯s champion shifted tactics, skewering its weapon into the Blight¡¯s stomach and lifting it off the ground. The armor plates on its back flared open, releasing a burst of orange flames and crackling electricity like a jet engine. With the Blight off balance, the champion surged forward, plowing into the forest, toppling trees that burst into flames. ¡°Ember, leave Hiro with me,¡± Ryuunosuke urged. ¡°Escape while you can. The Golems will return, and we can¡¯t hold them off forever.¡± I hesitated, feeling Hiro¡¯s weight on my back. ¡°I can¡¯t just leave you here. We need to stay together.¡± ¡°This is more important,¡± he pressed a scroll into my hand. ¡°We didn¡¯t travel to Yukiko¡¯s village just for you. Take this scroll to the Shogun. It contains vital information that could turn the tide against the Jingozi.¡± He handed me his Samurai token. ¡°This will provide you safe passage. Show it to anyone who questions you.¡± I wanted to insist we find another way, but the determination in Ryuunosuke¡¯s eyes silenced me. With a whistle, Ryuunosuke called his six-legged steed from the brush. Kitty slipped out of the same bushes into my arms with a squeal. Covered in blood but unharmed, I was beyond relieved. She dropped and licked Ryuunosuke¡¯s wounds. ¡°You can do this, Ember,¡± he said. ¡°You must. For all of us.¡± ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll do it. But promise me you¡¯ll take care of Hiro.¡± ¡°I will. You have my word. We¡¯ll meet you at Raishoto. Now go before it¡¯s too late.¡± He smiled with a faint, weary expression. NEW MISSION: SAMURAI SCROLL Deliver the scroll to the Shogun. Passing Hiro to Ryuunosuke, I put the scroll in my inventory and mounted the steed. The Samurai stood despite his injuries, clutching his sword with one hand while cradling Hiro in the other. ¡°Ride fast and stay safe,¡± he called out. Chapter 14. RAISHOTO Chapter 14. RAISHOTO
Day [14/40] The first day passed as a blur of dense forest and winding paths. The mechanical steed plowed ahead at full speed, its six hooves barely making a sound as we raced through the underbrush. We traveled south from dawn until dusk, stopping only when the sun dipped below the horizon. I found a small clearing to rest for the night. After lighting three fires, I practiced Zii-Kata to center myself. Kitty watched. * * * Day [15/40] The relentless pace continued on the second day. The landscape shifted, the thick forest giving way to rolling hills of tall grass and sparse trees. I practiced Zii-Kata during a brief rest, comforted by the sun¡¯s warmth. The movements were slower and more deliberate as I pondered my progress. Hiro weighed on my mind as Kitty hunted for bugs. * * * Day [16/40] By the third day, fatigue set in¡ªmy body ached, my mind exhausted. The landscape grew more desolate, with trees becoming sparse, giving way to rocky outcrops and dry grasslands. We paused by a small stream to rest and drink. The water was cool and refreshing. Kitty jumped in for a bath, only to yelp as something underwater pinched her. * * * Day [17/40] By the fourth day, the solitude became mind-numbing. The vast grassy plains stretched with no trace of civilization in sight. As the sun set, I found a sheltered nook to rest. My training, long abandoned, and the silence of the night only amplified the emptiness. Desperate for a distraction, I blinked into the Jingozi arena. ¡°Hello?¡± I called. ¡°Are you there?¡± ¡°Ember, it¡¯s great to see you¡ª¡± ¡°This was a mistake.¡± I blinked out and stayed awake all night. * * * Day [18/40] By the fifth day, doubt started to gnaw at me. What if I don¡¯t make it? I had been traveling for days with no sign of a city or the Samurai, with an endless landscape blurring together with every rise and fall of the terrain. Cresting a hill, I heard music. A caravan of brightly colored wagons accompanied by what looked like entertainers came into view. I approached cautiously, holding out the Samurai token. The leader of the caravan, a jovial, round man with a long black beard, welcomed me with open arms. ¡°Hello, young lady!¡± he said, waving. ¡°Um, hi. I¡¯m trying to get to the city.¡± ¡°Any member of the Samurai is welcome to travel with us,¡± his eyes twinkled with kindness. ¡°My name is Daichi. We are a troop of artists on our way to Raishoto to entertain the nobles. Please receive our hospitality.¡± I entered the Jingozi arena and scanned the entire caravan, scrutinizing every reflection for any signs of danger, but found nothing suspicious. Exhausted, I blinked back and asked to ride in one of the wagons. Daichi happily took the reins of my steed, seemingly unconcerned about the fact I was a total stranger. I climbed into the back of a wagon with Kitty. After days spent in a saddle, the soft piles of costumes and the gentle rocking of the wagon felt like a blessing. Laughter and music lulled me into a deep, dreamless slumber. * * * Day [19/40] The towering walls and majestic gates of the Samurai city were an awe-inspiring sight. The wide streets were alive with activity¡ªSamurai in gleaming armor, merchants hawking their goods, and children laughing as they played. The architecture blended the traditional and the fantastical, with pagodas stretching toward the sky adorned with carvings and shimmering banners. The vibrant sounds of the city and the mouthwatering aroma of street food welcomed us into its heart.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation. I thanked Daichi and gifted him the steed. I¡¯d become a capable rider but had no idea how to care for a horse with six legs¡ªor whatever it was. ¡°You¡¯ve been so cool, even though you¡¯re the weirdest pony I¡¯ve ever seen,¡± I whispered, patting its armored flank one last time. I stood in the market square with Kitty, taking it all in. ¡°All right, Kitty, let''s do this.¡± * * * A local merchant¡¯s stall displayed exotic goods, from silken fabrics to finely crafted weapons. The merchant himself was a stout man with an amiable demeanor. He beckoned me over. ¡°Welcome, traveler,¡± he greeted with a bow. ¡°You seem new to Raishoto. Can I introduce you to some of the finest wares in the city?¡± ¡°Thank you,¡± I said. ¡°I¡¯m curious about the city itself.¡± ¡°Ah, Raishoto! It is a city of great history and importance. Please allow me to enlighten you,¡± the merchant¡¯s eyes lit up with pride. He gestured for me to come closer, handing me a juicy-looking fruit I didn¡¯t recognize. ¡°Raishoto, which means ¡®lightning castle,¡¯ was founded centuries ago by the legendary Samurai Lord Raiden Takamori before the Jingozi. He was a warrior of unmatched skill and a master of an ancient form of elemental Zii-Kata, now long forgotten. It¡¯s said that during a great storm, Raiden harnessed the power of lightning itself to vanquish a formidable enemy that threatened our lands. In honor of his bravery and the divine power he wielded, this city was built on the ground where that battle took place.¡± The merchant paused, his eyes scanning the bustling market. ¡°The city¡¯s architecture reflects this lightning connection. Looking closely, you¡¯ll see many of our buildings are designed to capture and channel the energy of the storms that occur almost every night. The pagodas are adorned with metal rods and enchanted stones that draw lightning, providing protection and power to our people.¡± I glanced around, noting the subtle details he described. ¡°Raishoto is not just a city¡ªit¡¯s the heart of the Samurai faction. Our warriors train here to host several sanctioned Jingozi exhibitions, honing their skills and mastering the Jingozi way. And we are blessed to have Lord Shogun himself residing in the Grand Palace at the center of the city, overseeing the defense and governance of our lands. Many important decisions are made here, making Raishoto the military and spiritual hub of the Samurai faction.¡± He leaned in, lowering his voice. ¡°But there¡¯s more. Raishoto is also a place of pilgrimage for many. The Temple of Thunder, located on the eastern hill, attracts those seeking the deeper mysteries of Zii and the legacy of Raiden Takamori. Meditating there during a storm grants insights and visions from other dimensions.¡± He stared at me intently as I bit into the fruit. It was plum-flavored with a minty aftertaste. ¡°How do I see the Shogun?¡± juice trickled down my chin. ¡°Nobody sees the Lord Shogun. Why would you make such a request?¡± ¡°No reason, just being a tourist. Thank you for the fruit.¡± ¡°It¡¯s my pleasure,¡± his smile returned. ¡°Raishoto is a city of honor and tradition¡ªevery visitor becomes a part of its story. Don¡¯t hesitate to return if you need anything else, whether it¡¯s guidance or supplies. Just ask for Taikumi.¡± As I walked away, Taikumi shouted, ¡°May the spirits of our ancestors and Lord Raiden himself guide you!¡± Taking only two steps, I almost tripped over a family of dark elves huddled together near a crumbling wall. I immediately recognized them by their deep purple hue, dulled by dirt. They wore tattered rags and cloaks with hoods drawn low. A small child clung to their mother¡¯s leg, wide-eyed and gaunt. I paused, taken aback. My past encounters with dark elves had painted them as the enemy, filled with cruelty and aggression. I''d never expected to see them in such a state of vulnerability. ¡°Please, sir,¡± the mother begged, her voice small. ¡°Just a small piece of bread. Anything to feed my child.¡± For a moment, I was at a loss for words, twinged by their desperation and the flicker of pity stirring within me. This world, like Earth, has its share of poverty and social injustice. Kitty tensed and yowled, sounding like a real cat. I''d forgotten about her aggro with dark elves. I couldn''t blame her. "Chill, Kitty," I whispered. "Look at them. They pose no threat." Kitty didn''t care but stayed put on my shoulders. "Behave," I told her. I approached cautiously, my heart aching. I summoned three rations from my inventory and offered them. The child looked up at me. The spark of hope in those innocent eyes made my heart clench. "I''m sorry, that''s all I have," I said. The mother¡¯s expression shifted to gratitude as she accepted the rations with trembling hands. ¡°Thank you,¡± she whispered, her eyes glistening. ¡°We thought we would not find kindness today.¡± ¡°It¡¯s the least I can do,¡± I responded softly. ¡°I wish I could do more. Please take care of yourselves.¡± The small child reached out a tiny hand, brushing against my arm. ¡°Thank you,¡± the child said shyly, their voice barely above a whisper. ¡°May the spirits protect you,¡± the father added, his voice hoarse but filled with sincerity. ¡°Hey! You there, girl!¡± Glaring at me, a grizzled man with a scruffy beard leaned out from behind his fruit counter. ¡°Stop encouraging those vagrants! They''ll never leave this place if you keep giving them food.¡± I flicked my wrist to load a Jingozi card, letting it glow with Zii, and flashed it. The bravado melted from his face. ¡°I¡ªum, I was just¡ª¡± he stammered, his voice trailing into mumbling. Without waiting for a response, I approached his counter and picked up three ripe melons from his stall. The shopkeeper opened his mouth to protest but then relented after seeing my glare. I took the melons and turned back toward the family of dark elves. ¡°Here,¡± I said, raising my voice. ¡°Take these. A gift from that kind and generous man behind me.¡± The father''s eyes widened with disbelief as he received the melons. ¡°Move along,¡± I gestured gently. As they scuttled away, I shot the shopkeeper another death stare. He shifted uncomfortably but said nothing as I walked past him. From the corner of my eye, Taikumi nodded and smiled. * * * An inn on the corner drew me in with its welcoming facade and a sign swaying in the breeze. The aroma of cooked food wafted just outside the entrance, making my mouth water. Stepping inside, I was met with the warmth of the hearth and the comforting hum of conversation. The innkeeper, a burly man with a bushy beard and ruddy complexion, looked up from behind the counter, his eyes briefly meeting mine. ¡°Room?¡± he said flatly. ¡°Yes, please.¡± ¡°Two silver.¡± I was stumped. Nobody had explained the monetary system here. ¡°Money?¡± he frowned. ¡°Oh, of course.¡± The innkeeper¡¯s eyes narrowed, watching me fumble. ¡°I have this.¡± I presented Ryuunosuke¡¯s Samurai token. ¡°Out! To hell with you Samurai. Think we¡¯re all your slaves?¡± ¡°Wait, I don¡¯t¡­¡± The innkeeper signaled to his workers. They surrounded me, hands on their swords. Kitty tensed. I pulled a Jingozi token from my inventory to defuse the situation. The innkeeper and his workers¡¯ eyes widened in fear, and they shouted a litany of harsh-sounding words in a different language, pushing me out the door. ¡°Take that cursed coin and leave! Never come back!¡± The door slammed shut behind me. Standing bewildered, I tried to process what had happened. A figure approached¡ªa blonde elf dressed in a flashy pirate outfit topped with a wide-brimmed hat and a feather. He was a Jingozi apprentice. Name: Jon Deerfoot [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: II [Bronze] Rank 5 Faction: Emperor [Lord] ¡°Vexing day?¡± he asked. ¡°You could say that,¡± I said, still shaken. ¡°Jon Deerfoot, at your service,¡± he bowed. ¡°I¡¯m from the Emperor faction, on a trade mission from my northern manor. And you are?¡± ¡°Ember. Did you say Emperor faction?¡± ¡°Despite the war, factions still conduct business. Trade is essential, even between enemies. And as an elf, I¡¯m considered somewhat of an outsider, less of a threat.¡± ¡°So why would they be hostile to this?¡± I held up the Jingozi token. The elf covered it with his glove, scanning the area from left to right. ¡°Not everyone is friendly to the Samurai. Their elitism and oppressive rule have earned them disdain from the people. As for the Jingozi, they¡¯re feared. Such a token is an omen, representing chaos and meddling beyond control.¡± ¡°I just need a place to stay.¡± ¡°People don¡¯t just stumble on such treasure. You¡¯re a Jingozi dealer.¡± ¡°As are you.¡± ¡°Touche, my dear.¡± Jon placed a hand on my shoulder. ¡°Come with me. I know of more suitable accommodations for a lady such as you.¡± Chapter 15. SANCTUARY Chapter 15. SANCTUARY
Jon Deerfoot ushered me through the winding streets, past grand buildings and crowded markets, until we reached a quieter part of the city. The atmosphere changed as we approached a structure contrasting the traditional architecture leading up to it. It was a grand cathedral-like building, luxurious and modern with a gothic twist. ¡°This is a Jingozi sanctuary,¡± Jon explained as we walked through the massive doors. ¡°It¡¯s where us Doctrine Dealers and higher titles stay. It¡¯s a privilege granted to all who are chosen.¡± FEAT ACHIEVED: JINGOZI SANCTUARY You have visited your first Jingozi Sanctuary, a haven for Jingozi apprentices and higher ranks. While within these walls, you are protected and immune from any interference from any other faction. The cost is 1 Jingozi token per stay. Warning: Only a one-day maximum is allowed during your Jingozi trials. Stepping inside, I marveled at the interior, a blend of luxury and mysticism. The walls were lined with dark wood and intricate carvings, while plush velvet furnishings and flickering candles added to the atmosphere. A tall, stoic host dressed in elaborate dark robes stood behind a counter. ¡°Allow me,¡± Jon said, extending his hand. ¡°Two tokens, if you would be so kind, my dear.¡± I dropped two Jingozi tokens into his hand as he winked. ¡°I have a new guest,¡± Jon announced, placing one token on the counter and sliding it to the robed man behind it. ¡°Um, excuse me?¡± I said. ¡°I gave you two.¡± ¡°Consider it a deposit for an unforgettable night of entertainment.¡± ¡°I¡¯m not here to have fun.¡± ¡°Business then. I¡¯m at your service. Meet me down here when you¡¯re ready.¡± Despite my initial reservations, I couldn''t help but smile back. He was charming. And I wasn''t about to complain if his help could advance my mission. ¡°Alright,¡± I said. ¡°But it better be worth it.¡± ¡°Oh, it will, trust me,¡± he bowed. The host led me up a grand staircase and showed me to my room. ¡°Your Zii is required for the door,¡± he said. I produced a Zii coin and inserted it into the slot under the door handle. The door quietly swung open. It was more luxurious than any Vegas penthouse. The quarters were expansive, with high ceilings and a panoramic window offering a stunning city view. The bed was a four-poster draped in rich fabrics and intricately carved wooden furniture pieces that looked like they belonged in a palace. A rather large shower in the corner had a glowing slot under two floating crystals. ¡°Zii is required for all room services,¡± the host said, then closed the door behind him as he left. Kitty was already sprawling on the bed, making herself comfortable. Turning the corner, I discovered the bathroom extended beyond just a shower. Two large jacuzzi tubs awaited¡ªone with steam rising from the water, the other appearing ice cold. Intrigued, I disrobed and dropped a Zii coin into the slot. The shower sprang to life, cascading an even spray of water. The crystals glowed, adjusting the water temperature as if they could read my mind. After washing, I looked at my reflection in a full-length mirror and confirmed my previous suspicion. Not a single blemish marred my skin despite weeks of injuries and exposure, including the scar from being impaled in the leg. This isn¡¯t your body, Em. You¡¯re an uninvited guest, remember? A squatter. Someone knocked. I spent 1 Zii cleaning and repairing my kimono before opening the door. A geisha with a pixie haircut entered with a tray of sushi. She set it down and bowed. Name: Sora [Divine Dealer] Tier: IV [Cobalt] Rank 9 Faction: Ninja [Assassin] ¡°Wait, what?¡± I said. ¡°You¡¯re a¡­ who are you?¡± With a seductive smile, she darted out of the room. I followed her out the door but found nothing but an empty hall. I¡¯ll have to track her down later. Famished, I sat down to eat. Ever curious, Kitty tried a piece of fish and scrunched her nose as if she¡¯d bitten into a slice of lemon. ¡°Now, now, Kitty, don¡¯t be so picky.¡± She bristled as I sipped my tea between mouthfuls of delicious sushi. A covered bowl sat on the edge of the tray, and I lifted the lid. It was filled with giant, wriggling larvae. I recoiled, mortified. But Kitty squealed in delight. She pounced and devoured the worms with gusto. It looked like Kitty was going to enjoy the service here. If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. * * * Descending to the main floor, the grand staircase led to an opulent hall alive with conversation and the occasional clink of glassware. The atmosphere exuded luxury and mystery, like everyone was hiding a secret. Guests were dressed in elaborate costumes¡ªmonks, elves, wizards in flowing robes, and even Demi-Golems like Cragmarr. And they were all tier 1 Doctrine Dealers. A group near a large, ornate table caught my attention. Four men and two women, clad in a mix of robes and armor, were engrossed in an oddly familiar game. I moved closer. They played with Jingozi cards and stacks of Zii coins. Jon appeared beside me, a playful smile on his lips. ¡°Riveting, isn¡¯t it?¡± he said, nodding towards the table. ¡°It¡¯s a way for Jingozi players to enjoy the thrill of the game without all the violence.¡± A bald woman with face tattoos won the hand and collected the pot, met by a chorus of cheers and boos from the other players. It was just like Vegas. ¡°Many consider it more civilized,¡± Jon continued. ¡°But the Jingozi disagree. They frown upon the practice but tolerate it, knowing it helps players refine their skills.¡± ¡°Can I?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not sure they''d accept you, my dear. By the looks of it, you''re still on your trials. We''re not to assist you in the Jingozi ways. ¡°Bummer.¡± Jon¡¯s smile returned as he presented his arm. ¡°In the meantime, how about a night of entertainment and wonder? It¡¯d be a shame to waste such a lovely evening indoors. Especially when you look so ravishing.¡± I couldn''t help but feel a blush and accepted his arm with my own, allowing him to escort me outside. The evening air was crisp with the smell of rain. Stepping out into the streets of Raishoto, it was like experiencing the Vegas strip for the first time again. * * * The city¡¯s nightlife was a vibrant spectacle. Lanterns illuminated the teeming streets, where merchants hawked their goods and musicians filled the air with lively tunes, setting the perfect atmosphere. Jon and I strolled side by side, his smooth charm and playful banter putting me at ease. I learned he, too, had been adopted¡ªby a noble Emperor family. His house specialized in trading rare magical oils, and he had a natural talent for the family business. After the Jingozi chose him as a Doctrine Dealer, his social status soared, elevating him to the Lord class. I kept my mission to myself but shared stories about Yukiko¡¯s village and a precocious boy named Hiro, who was already breaking hearts among the girls. ¡°Sounds like I have some competition,¡± Jon laughed. * * * We arrived at an arena, a hulking structure under a half-dome spiked with Tesla coils. Jon led me to a private entrance, where he knocked on a heavy metal door. A small slit slid open, revealing a pair of sharp eyes. Jon slipped a Jingozi token through the opening, and after a brief pause, the door opened. We were escorted up several stairs to a private booth overlooking the arena. The view was astonishing. Below us, two massive robots¡ªeach a colossal suit of armor standing fifty feet high¡ªwere locked in battle. Jon explained the robots were called Juggers. Despite their size, they moved with surprising agility. A human pilot controlled each Jugger in a cockpit at the head, while archers stationed at various points on the armor fired blunt arrows at the opposing team. On the ground, runners maneuvered wheelbarrows toward a central pile of crystals, filling them before racing back to their respective Juggers. Dodging arrows, they shoveled the crystals into chutes on the legs of the robots. The entire arena was in a frenzy, captivated by the intense competition. Jon leaned in close, his voice barely audible over the boisterous crowd. ¡°Those are octranite crystals that fuel the Juggers. The goal is to incapacitate the other Jugger by shooting the pilots or runners. Or the Jugger causing the most damage wins.¡± He took a sip of spiced wine. ¡°Originally, the two juggernauts were enslaved Golems, forced to fight to the death. But that practice was abolished by the Jingozi. That''s when the Monks used the shed husks of metal Golems powered by octranite to create the glorious machines before us.¡± One Jugger landed a heavy blow, sending sparks and fragments flying. The crowd roared. ¡°Okay, Jon,¡± I said. ¡°I¡¯m impressed, but you promised to help me with business.¡± ¡°Ah, yes. Ask away.¡± ¡°I need to meet with the Shogun.¡± ¡°Nobody gets an audience with the Lord Shogun.¡± ¡°He¡¯s going to want one with me.¡± ¡°Intriguing,¡± he raised an eyebrow. ¡°Let me see if I can curry some favor with my high-ranking friends on your behalf.¡± ¡°Thank you, Jon.¡± We enjoyed a sumptuous meal in the privacy of our booth. The food was exquisite¡ªa delectable selection of delicate cheeses, succulent meats, and exotic fruits. The drinks were equally impressive, with goblets of fine wines and spirits that left me pleasantly tipsy. Jon continued to flirt with a lighthearted charm. He wasn''t just handsome but had a sense of style. His wide-brimmed hat, adorned with a colorful feather, sat at a jaunty angle. A deep indigo velvet coat with silver embroidery accentuated his broad shoulders, and a white silk shirt with ruffled cuffs peeked out from beneath. His pants were tailored to fit, tucked into polished leather boots that reached just below his knees. The ensemble included a jeweled belt and an ornate wand holstered at his side. ¡°You¡¯re quite the sight,¡± I remarked. ¡°Are all traders from the north so stylish?¡± ¡°Only the ones who want to make a lasting impression,¡± Jon laughed. ¡°And you, my dear, are more than worth the effort.¡± I blushed. We watched the Juggers into the night, each moment more enthralling than the last. * * * Jon and I returned to the Jingozi Sanctuary, still buzzing from the night''s excitement. The cool night air was refreshing, though the drinks left me slightly lightheaded. A surge of boldness swept over me on the steps. I turned to Jon, leaned in, and closed my eyes for a kiss. ¡°Ember, you¡¯re enchanting,¡± he said, ¡°but what kind of Emperor Lord would I be if I wasn¡¯t a gentleman tonight?¡± ¡°You¡¯re sweet,¡± I said, my face feeling red hot with embarrassment. ¡°As promised, let¡¯s start on your request tomorrow morning. I¡¯ll be waiting outside.¡± ¡°Perfect.¡± As we said good night, Jon pecked me on the cheek, and I went to my room. Sinking into bed, my mind swirling with the night¡¯s events, I felt like a little schoolgirl with a crush. Half-asleep, Kitty stirred and cooed. * * * Day [20/40] Leaving Kitty with a bowl of grubs, I bounced to the lobby. Reaching the doors, a Monk in simple green robes intercepted me. ¡°Do not go,¡± he said. ¡°You have sanctuary within these walls.¡± I glanced past him to Jon in the street. Ignoring the Monk¡¯s warning, I pushed open the doors. A small description on my interface made my heart skip a beat. Name: Captain Masashi [Covenant Dealer] Tier: V [Titanium] Rank 1 Faction: Samurai [Shogun] I froze in the doorway. The Samurai Captain was hidden, but his stats gave him away. ¡°Jon, what¡¯s going on?¡± I shouted. ¡°I believe this doesn¡¯t belong to you,¡± Jon approached and presented Ryuunosuke¡¯s Samurai token. Flaunting the token last night like a drunken idiot, I must¡¯ve left it on the table. The Samurai Captain stepped out from behind a stall. Jon handed him the token, pointing and nodding in my direction. ¡°You there! Come out!¡± the Captain shouted. ¡°You are under arrest!¡± ¡°For what?¡± I yelled. ¡°For the murder of the Samurai known as Ryuunosuke.¡± ¡°He gave that to me.¡± ¡°A Samurai would never give up his faction token unless he knew his fate was death.¡± Ryuunosuke, dead? I couldn¡¯t believe it. If that was the case, then¡­ what about Hiro? Did Ryuunosuke set me up with a mission knowing he and Hiro wouldn¡¯t make it? The sanctuary host joined me, observing the situation. ¡°You do not have to go,¡± he said. ¡°They cannot enter while you are granted protective sanctuary. We can summon a Jingozi to adjudicate.¡± I wasn¡¯t too fond of that option, either. ¡°You will be judged before the Shogun,¡± the captain said. With a deep breath, I stepped into the street, hands raised, glaring at Jon. ¡°I surrender.¡± Chapter 16: PERSPECTIVE Chapter 16: PERSPECTIVE
¡°Bring her,¡± the captain commanded. Flanked by Samurai, I was led through the streets, the crowd parting before us. They brought me to a nearby magistrate¡¯s office with a holding cell. The walls were thick stone, with only a tiny, barred window above for a sliver of light. They scoured me for weapons or possessions but found nothing. The door shut behind me with a loud screech, and I was left alone with my thoughts. How could I have let myself get distracted by someone like Jon Deerfoot? I''d let my guard lapse. Knowing I¡¯d let Hiro down, I felt¡­ ashamed. I pulled out Hiro¡¯s origami flower, the delicate folds preserved in my inventory. I can fix this, Hiro. I promise. * * * Day [21/40] More guards arrived to escort me to the Shogun¡¯s court at dawn. They bound me in chains, and we once again made our way through the streets of Raishoto, eventually reaching the Shogun¡¯s palace. The court was magnificent. Golden lanterns illuminated the room with bright, warm light, highlighting its grandeur. The floor was a polished stone mosaic, adding to the royal atmosphere. The Shogun sat at the far end of the hall, raised on a dais. Name: Tokugawa Masamune [Arch Dealer] Tier: 7 [Obsidian] Rank ??? Faction: Samurai [Shogun] Leader Clad in deep crimson and gold robes draped over his armor, the Shogun was the picture of strength and authority. His jet-black hair was styled in the traditional chonmage, the topknot tied high and tight, while the sides of his head were clean-shaven. A meticulously groomed beard framed his face, and his piercing eyes gazed through me as if weighing my soul. ¡°Ember, you stand accused of the murder of Ryuunosuke, a crime punishable by death,¡± a sweaty obese herald declared. ¡°What say you in your defense?¡± I took in the Shogun''s court. On one side, a group of high-ranking Samurai, including the Samurai Captain, sat on raised platforms in full armor. To the other side, a row of elderly advisors in plain robes and beads whispered among themselves. Spread through the room, nobles in embroidered kimonos watched the proceedings. And at the center of it all was the Shogun himself. ¡°I didn¡¯t kill Ryuunosuke,¡± I said. ¡°He gave me a mission to deliver a scroll to you.¡± ¡°You will address him as Lord Shogun,¡± the herald snarked. ¡°Whatever, do you want the scroll or not?¡± The court murmured, but the Shogun raised a hand for silence. ¡°Bring forth this scroll.¡± A Samurai stepped in front of him and bowed. ¡°She had no possessions, Lord.¡± ¡°What is the meaning of this girl?¡± the Shogun asked. ¡°You dare mock us?¡± I held up my hands, still restrained by the shackles, and called the scroll from my inventory. It appeared from thin air, making the court gasp. The Shogun didn¡¯t react. ¡°Leave us,¡± he said without breaking his gaze. * * * The Shogun¡¯s eyes bore into me as he took the scroll from my hands. He unrolled it and scanned the contents. ¡°Do you know what this is?¡± he asked. ¡°No. I only know it was important to you, Ryuunosuke, and Yukiko.¡± He studied me before a grunt of acknowledgment. ¡°This scroll contains a record from a defector about the Jingozi. The effort to obtain this knowledge was immense, and we went to great lengths to turn the Jingozi against their kind. Ryuunosuke would have sacrificed his life to ensure it reached me, and it seems he did exactly that.¡± My mind was filled with questions. Was the defector in the garden? Did Yukiko set me up like everybody else? He studied me again, his expression betraying nothing. ¡°You have done a great service.¡± MISSION COMPLETE: SAMURAI SCROLL Deliver the scroll to the Shogun. LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: I [Iron] Rank 3 He called for the court to return. Once settled in, the Shogun stood, commanding the room¡¯s attention. ¡°This girl has brought us valuable information,¡± he held the scroll high. ¡°But I have one question before I make my judgment. It is clear that you possess magic we have not seen. If you know the Jingozi ways, you are either an agent for them or a spy for another faction.¡± He kneeled close, allowing me to see the contempt in his face. ¡°Which one is it, girl?¡± I felt a pit of dread in my stomach. It was all happening so fast, but my gut told me to say nothing. ¡°Arrest her,¡± he said. ¡°The execution is to be in thirty days.¡± ¡°But I brought you the scroll.¡± ¡°Our laws are clear, and my judgment is final. You are not Samurai. You are something else. Your assistance does not absolve you of your affiliation, whatever it is.¡±Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on. * * * The stone walls of the prison cell closed in as the guards threw me inside. The cell was small and dank, with a woven mat for a bed in one corner and a bucket in the other. Without natural light, the air felt heavy and smelt of mildew and decay. Without windows, a network of wired floating orbs with metallic coils lit the room. Two guards took their places just outside, their faces unreadable. One hand rested on the hilt of a sword, while the other held a long pole with a coiled prod on the end. The door to the prison block opened, and Jon Deerfoot entered, accompanied by a figure cloaked in shadow. I recognized the unmistakable aura of a Jingozi, but it stayed just out of sight. ¡°Jon, you son of a bitch.¡± Jon gave a slight bow. ¡°My dear, it¡¯s only business. You must understand. It seems every faction is more interested in you than even I expected. And that always pays well. Besides, I fulfilled my part of the bargain. I said I''d get you an audience with the Shogun, and I did.¡± ¡°Wait, how did you know I was¡­¡± Jon leaned in, anticipating my words. ¡°Why are you here?¡± I finished. ¡°You tell me,¡± he gestured to the Jingozi. ¡°Our mysterious and brooding friend here won¡¯t divulge anything beyond arranging this little visit.¡± The Jingozi remained silent. Jon continued, ¡°At the behest of the Jingozi, the Samurai faction has agreed to spare your life if you publicly provide information about your plan and benefactors.¡± Now, I turned silent. ¡°Look, Ember,¡± he continued. ¡°I do like you¡ªalluring in the right mysterious ways. In another time and another life, I¡¯m sure things would be¡­ different. But we¡¯re here right now, and I don¡¯t see you with any options. Do you earnestly want to scorn the Samurai and Jingozi only to die for whatever faction abandoned you?¡± He was so smug. But part of what he said rang true. Besides a geisha named Sora, I hadn¡¯t met anybody from the Ninja faction like Yukiko had promised. But why are the Jingozi involved? ¡°I have no idea what you¡¯re talking about,¡± I said. ¡°And even if I did, I¡¯d never give it to you.¡± ¡°Suit yourself, but such a travesty. You have thirty days until your execution. I would be grateful, though. The Shogun has taken torture off the menu as a courtesy that hopefully changes your mind. That¡¯s plenty of time for you to mull it over.¡± ¡°Are you done?¡± ¡°Ember, consider the offer. I implore you. Ask for me if you do.¡± Without warning, the room went pitch black. The lamps flickered back to life after a few moments in the darkness. ¡°I swear, lightning power is so unstable,¡± Jon muttered. ¡°Why don¡¯t they use water Golems like the rest of the civilized world?¡± He turned and left, the Jingozi behind him. The door slammed shut. Despite the size of the cell, I began to practice Zii-Kata. Suddenly, a searing pain interrupted me. Electricity crackled through the air as I collapsed to the ground, my muscles spasming uncontrollably. The cell blurred, and I tasted metal as my body stiffened with every nerve ending on fire. The guards stepped back from the bars, their poles crackling with blue arcs of electricity. Trembling from the aftershocks, I deflated on the floor and closed my eyes. * * * ¡°Is this place real,¡± I asked the voice in the Jingozi arena, ¡°or is it all in my head?¡± ¡°Why not both?¡± he answered. ¡°How is that possible? I¡¯m normal here, yet time is frozen out there.¡± I pointed to my prison cell in the floor¡¯s reflection. ¡°Your perspective and resulting construct of time is egocentric. You think all time revolves around your experience as the center of it all. To this day, most of humanity thinks the day starts when they wake up.¡± ¡°So?¡± ¡°Wouldn¡¯t you agree as ¡®time flies¡¯ for one person, the same could feel like an ¡®eternity¡¯ for someone else?¡± ¡°Of course.¡± ¡°Good. Now we know time is relative, let¡¯s challenge the notion that time is linear. What if it¡¯s circular instead? Imagine a string. In linear time, that string is stretched from point A to point B. But if it was a circle, points A and B would be at the exact moment. So, if time is a relative circle, an individual can complete multiple circuits while others remain in one spot.¡± ¡°Okay. I get the theory. But it still doesn¡¯t explain how the Jingozi can suspend time to pull me from my world or create the Jingozi arena effect. And how can I slip in and out of time while others can¡¯t?¡± ¡°Great questions. Let¡¯s start with the Jingozi. The Jingozi understand that if you stand in the circle¡¯s center and draw a line through it, you intersect with two points in time. While one point may be the past and the other the future, both are relatively relevant to the individual in the center.¡± ¡°A visual would be helpful,¡± I mumbled to myself. ¡°Of course! If you would point your attention upward.¡± A sparkling diagram of a circle and line appeared in the arena sky. ¡°Now, let¡¯s take two people at the center of their circular timelines,¡± the voice continued as the one circle became two, each with a dot in the center. They overlapped to make a Venn diagram. ¡°Where they intersect is how one person can be pulled into another¡¯s timeline, otherwise known as dimensions. The space they share in the overlap defines the dynamics of their experience.¡± ¡°Dimensions? But I thought this entire world is a dimension.¡± ¡°Remember, it¡¯s relative. While yes, every individual¡¯s circle is a dimension unto itself, billions of people, each with unique circles, could be on the same timeline as part of a single dimension.¡± ¡°Then how does my ability work?¡± ¡°Ah, yes, we were getting to that. The Jingozi control access to dimensional timelines through their technology. They limit access, appointing themselves as gamemasters. But you, Ember, don¡¯t rely on such technology.¡± ¡°My gift¡­¡± ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°Then who gave it to me?¡± ¡°You¡¯ve always had it. Now it''s unlocked.¡± ¡°Huh? I¡¯ve never been able to freeze time.¡± ¡°Look at the diagram again. When you were pulled into this dimension, you brought parts of yours with you. Your dimension contributes to the shared dynamic. It makes things interesting, wouldn¡¯t you say?¡± ¡°Can I use my gift to get home?¡± I asked. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Ember, no. That¡¯s up to the Jingozi. This is their game and their rules.¡± ¡°Fine. So, if this is all happening for real, and I¡¯m a dimension in another dimension, how much control do I have here?¡± ¡°The answer is based on what you¡¯re willing to believe.¡± ¡°Believe? Like faith?¡± ¡°Not in the way you¡¯re thinking about it. But you¡¯re getting warmer.¡± ¡°Can I practice Zii-Kata here?¡± ¡°If that¡¯s what you would like, why not?¡± ¡°Can I learn spells here?¡± ¡°Absolutely.¡± ¡°Then I have an experiment.¡± ¡°Of course you do, Ember,¡± he chuckled. ¡°That¡¯s what we love about you.¡± Following a gut feeling, it would be a game-changer if my hunch worked. I practiced my Zii-Kata in the Jingozi arena. As expected, since I was alone, a floating red card appeared after what should have been hours if I was in the real-time physical world. Swiping the card, I braced myself. Pain lanced across my body as three shadows materialized, their dark forms wielding ghostly blades. The first cut skimmed my forearm¡ªa whisper of agony. Another sliced my thigh. Then another. And another. "Not real. Not real. Not real," I chanted through gritted teeth. The shadows danced around me, their movements precise and calculated. Each slash peeled away layers - first, my ninja armor falling away in ribbons, then my skin beneath. Blood welled from countless wounds, trickling into a pool on the obsidian floor. My flesh burned as shadowy energy coursed through each cut. I collapsed to my knees, naked and trembling. The reflective surface showed my broken form, crimson spreading beneath me like spilled wine. "Focus," I whispered, watching my blood-streaked reflection. "It''s just another test." But the pain felt real. Every slice, every burning trail of shadow-tainted energy ripping through me, sent fresh waves of agony. My body wanted to curl up to protect itself from the relentless assault. I forced my eyes open, staring at my reflection in the growing pool of blood. The shadows continued their work, methodically covering every inch of my exposed skin with paper-thin cuts. My arms shook as I braced myself against the floor. "Not real," I repeated, even as darkness crept into the edges of my vision. "Not real." I blinked out of the arena and fell over in my cell, clutching my throat. Despite the cold sweat, the pain was already easing much earlier than usual. ¡°What are you doing?¡± a guard said, raising his taser-prod. ¡°Cramps,¡± I croaked. ¡°It¡¯s that time of the month. Sorry for being a woman.¡± The guards looked at each other dubiously but left it alone and returned to their positions. I checked my notifications. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A POWER CARD Shade Strike * * * Day [22/40] I returned to the Jingozi arena. ¡°I did it,¡± I told the voice. ¡°Since you''re giving me the power cards, I can grab them here and blink out with way less pain. I always hated that part, but if I can concentrate, I can shorten the time even more.¡± ¡°That was clever. I¡¯m impressed as always.¡± ¡°But why does it have to be painful?.¡± ¡°That''s not me. That''s the Jingozi''s fault. The power is from me. But the cards and game are theirs.¡± ¡°Oh. Then I have more questions.¡± ¡°Please, ask away.¡± ¡°Why am I here? What¡¯s the point of all this?¡± ¡°How do you mean?¡± ¡°The Jingozi brought me to this dimension so I could just¡­ get executed? I mean, why go through all the trouble? Or are they that sadistic?¡± ¡°I understand how you feel. But it¡¯s a touch more complicated than that. You are part of their story as much as I am yours. What you should be asking is, what¡¯s in it for them to let you die? What kind of story would that be?¡± ¡°A pointless one.¡± ¡°Exactly. Not to mention dull. In my experience, nothing is pointless or dull if you look at it from the right perspective.¡± ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡± ¡°Take a look below.¡± I peered into the swirling obsidian floor, examining my frozen image in the cell. I lay in bed. But with my amplified senses, something peeked out from under the mat¡ªa small roll of parchment paper about the size of a pill. Chapter 17: SORA Chapter 17: SORA
Wait. Bed. Stay quiet. I shoved the note in my mouth, chewed it up, and spat it into the bucket. Laying on the mat, I stared at the ceiling, counting the beams and wondering what Kitty was up to. Most likely, she was neck-deep in an anthill somewhere or enjoying Jingozi sanctuary room service. I counted the ceiling beams again. How long is this going to take? Closing my eyes, sleep¡ªmaybe boredom¡ªcrept over me. The lights flickered as usual, a sign of an evening storm. ¡°You have a visitor.¡± Rubbing my eyes, the two guards approached the cell. Between them was Taikumi, the exotic goods merchant I¡¯d met on my first day. A foot shorter than the Samurai, he wore a fine golden robe over a shirt and pants a size too small for his stout frame. His hair was slicked back under a headband, matching the entire outfit. The final touch was the gaudy gold rings on each finger, including his thumbs. ¡°By Raiden¡¯s thunder!¡± Taikumi exclaimed. ¡°When I heard a redhead from foreign lands was sentenced for execution, I knew it was you.¡± ¡°What do you want?¡± I didn¡¯t bother to get up. ¡°No more than to indulge an old man¡¯s curiosity, young lady. Although, an old friend of mine visited me the other day as a truly welcome surprise. As a gift, she brought me this curious bobble.¡± Taikumi presented a green stone about the size of a baseball. ¡°It seems made from jade, and she called it a ¡®nexus stone.¡¯ Although I¡¯ve never heard of such a thing.¡± I stood up and put my hands on the bars. Yukiko? ¡°Wait,¡± a guard commanded. He snagged the jade stone to inspect it. After returning it to the merchant, he nodded to the other guard. Taikumi flashed us all a wide grin, revealing a gold tooth. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t happen to know what this is, would you?¡± he asked. ¡°Maybe where you¡¯re from or during your travels?¡± I studied Taikumi¡¯s face. There were none of the usual tells he was lying. Were he and Yukiko actually friends, or was I falling for another scam? I didn¡¯t know who to trust anymore. For all I knew, Yukiko was the puppet master pulling the strings behind everything¡ªsetting me up for murder. ¡°No,¡± I returned to the bed. ¡°A tragedy. Death by beheading is rather unfortunate,¡± Taikumi said, walking away. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for you. May the heavens grant you peace.¡± The guards escorted the merchant to the door when the room blacked out. The bed swung downward like a trap door. I tumbled into the arms of three figures, a hand covering my mouth. One pulled off a mask to reveal a mop of red hair, too dark to see more. The redhead lay on the wooden panel with the mat. The other two lifted the door and latched it closed. One held up a Ninja faction token, the heart symbol glowing red. ¡°Follow us.¡± * * * We crawled through the tunnel for hours in silence until it widened, and we could walk with a slight hunch. But I refused to take another step. ¡°Anybody going to explain what the hell¡¯s going on?¡± I said. The two Ninjas kept walking ahead. ¡°Fine,¡± I crossed my arms. ¡°I¡¯m not going anywhere until¡ª¡± They stopped, turned, and stared. After a long sigh, I relented and caught up to them. We reached a hatch above us. One of the Ninjas deposited their token into a small slot. The latch turned with mechanical clicks, and the hatch opened. We climbed into a candle-lit room filled with maps and a large wooden table cluttered with papers. Shelves lined the walls holding scrolls and books, while the entire room smelled of old parchment and ink. Taikumi stood at the head of the table. ¡°Welcome to the cellars of Thunder Temple,¡± he said, ¡°and to the Ninja faction.¡± ¡°You know Yukiko?¡± I asked. ¡°Of course! That vixen¡¯s been resisting my romantic charms since we were children.¡± I couldn¡¯t help but crack a smile. He gestured for us to sit at the table. ¡°As for why you¡¯re here,¡± he began. ¡°We have a plan.¡± ¡°Plan?¡± ¡°We will use your pending execution to strike the Shogun.¡±This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there. ¡°How?¡± ¡°The Ninja will cause civil chaos in the city for the next month¡ªhigh-profile thefts, releasing secrets, assassinations¡ªanything to agitate the Shogun and publicly embarrass him. We will demand your release. This will draw him out during your execution, where we will assassinate him.¡± ¡°Assassinate? Why would he put himself out there if he suspects I¡¯m Ninja faction by then?¡± ¡°That is the kind of arrogant ruler he is. He¡¯d never appear publicly, but if it serves him and his reputation, history tells us he will.¡± ¡°If it fails?¡± Taikumi frowned and paused for a moment. ¡°It could, yes. But it will also embolden the common people to rise against Samurai rule. The Shogun¡¯s increasing paranoia and erratic behavior have already sown discontent. This will push things to a breaking point.¡± ¡°And what am I supposed to do?¡± ¡°You begin your Ninja training,¡± he said. ¡°We¡¯ve placed a decoy in your cell to impersonate you. You¡¯ll need to return occasionally during interrogations.¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t she at risk of being killed?¡± ¡°She¡¯s willing to sacrifice for the greater good. We all play our parts, Ember. But I¡¯d be remiss if I didn¡¯t apologize for being rude to you during our last encounter. It was necessary to maintain the ruse.¡± ¡°I understand.¡± ¡°You can rest here tonight,¡± he stood and opened a door behind him. ¡°We¡¯ve retrieved something that might provide comfort.¡± Kitty bounced into the room and leaped onto my shoulders, purring against my cheek. ¡°Thank you, Taikumi.¡± ¡°Silverglints are a good omen,¡± he reached over to pet her. ¡°But there are always two, no?¡± ¡°Dark Elven.¡± ¡°I see. You rescued this one from those savages.¡± ¡°She rescued me.¡± ¡°Even better!¡± he snorted. ¡°Raiden smiles upon our cause.¡± Taikumi briefed me on all their intelligence against the Samurai faction. He shared how his parents were Samurai but executed for speaking out against the Shogun¡¯s oppressive policies upon the merchant class. ¡°You¡¯ve already met Hikari and Kaito,¡± Taikumi said, gesturing behind him. I didn¡¯t even realize the two Ninjas were still in the room. But now, stepping into the light without masks, they were twins, no older than teenagers. Hikari¡¯s long, dark hair was tied back in a high ponytail with a pretty face and almond-shaped eyes. Kaito, a spitting image, had a more serious air about him. His hair was cropped short, with a clean-shaven face. Both wore traditional black Ninja attire, carrying swords on their backs. ¡°Nice to meet you both,¡± I said. ¡°That was a neat trick to break me out of jail.¡± Hikari¡¯s eyes widened with excitement. ¡°You¡¯re the Jingozi dealer! We¡¯ve heard so much about you!¡± Kaito stood at attention, his expression more intense but filled with admiration. ¡°The honor is ours. Your reputation precedes you.¡± ¡°Oh? Well, I hope I live up to the hype.¡± ¡°Yeah. Standing up to the Shogun like that?¡± Kaito continued, ¡°I would have snapped like a pair of chopsticks and told him everything.¡± ¡°Well, the truth is, I was kind of peeing my pants.¡± Hikari and Kaito exchanged glances and burst into laughter. ¡°We like her already,¡± Hikari playfully punched Taikumi in the shoulder. I couldn¡¯t help but smile at their infectious energy. ¡°So, how did you two end up with the Ninja faction?¡± ¡°It¡¯s a long story,¡± Hikari began. ¡°Our father was a Samurai, and our mother was a geisha. But he denied us as his children. After our mother died in the brothel, we were left to fend for ourselves.¡± ¡°That¡¯s when the Ninja faction found us,¡± Kaito added. ¡°It¡¯s been our home ever since.¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry to hear that. It must have been tough.¡± ¡°It was, but we¡¯ve found our place,¡± Hikari shrugged. ¡°And now, we¡¯re meeting a walking and breathing Jingozi apprentice. How exciting is that? And you are so pretty. I¡¯ve never seen hair like this¡­ it¡¯s like it¡¯s on fire.¡± ¡°Stop gushing like a temple waterfall, Hikari,¡± Kaito said. ¡°She¡¯s still just a person like the rest of us.¡± ¡°As if you¡¯re not going to try to impress Ember like that elven seamstress,¡± She stuck her tongue out at him. ¡°I hate you.¡± ¡°You two are quite the pair,¡± I laughed. ¡°We hope to be chosen for Jingozi apprenticeship someday,¡± Hikari said. ¡°It¡¯s a great honor.¡± They looked at me with another big grin, then bowed and spoke together, ¡°You¡¯re our first real mission!¡± The Ninja twins weren¡¯t anything like I expected. They seemed¡­ happy, like family. Even Taikumi, sitting at the table watching us, looked proud of them¡ªof us together. ¡°To celebrate,¡± Hikari said, ¡°how about a drink? We have some homemade sake to knock the Zii out of you.¡± She produced a small flask and offered it to me. I took a sip. The sake burned down my throat, leaving me coughing and sputtering. ¡°Oh my God¡­ that¡¯s¡­ strong.¡± The twins burst into laughter. Hikari took a swig of her own. Kaito clapped me on the back. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, you¡¯ll get used to it. Or maybe not, but it¡¯s fun to watch.¡± ¡°You two are something else,¡± I chuckled. Despite their youth and playful banter, Hikari and Kaito were clearly competent. Their past hardships had shaped them into survivors. Hanging out with them was like hanging out with the long-lost family I never knew I had¡ªor wanted. Rocky would love these two. A knock was at the door. A red Zii coin appeared in the slot, and the door automatically opened. Taikumi hurried from studying some maps to usher in the visitor. It was Sora, the geisha from the Jingozi sanctuary. Name: Sora [Divine Dealer] Tier: IV [Cobalt] Rank 9 Faction: Ninja [Assassin] She was still wearing her breathtaking geisha outfit. Its rich black fabric was decorated with cherry blossom patterns in shades of red and gold. The kimono was artfully draped to reveal her shoulders and a hint of cleavage, the neckline plunging just enough to be enticing while still maintaining an air of mystery. The sash was positioned slightly lower than usual, highlighting her hips and the curve of her waist. The sleeves were long and flowing, yet they parted seductively at the shoulders, allowing glimpses of her traditional tattoos. The kimono¡¯s hem was shorter than the usual ankle length, ending just above her knees to reveal her toned legs covered in thigh-high stockings. Her face was flawless, with a porcelain complexion, red lips, and perfectly lined eyes. A flower hairpin adorned her pixie-cut hair, adding a final touch of traditional beauty to her provocative appearance. ¡°Ember, I introduce Sora,¡± Taikumi said. ¡°I half expected you to be dead,¡± Sora said. "How you made it this far is beyond me." ¡°How did you know I¡¯d be at the Jingozi sanctuary?¡± I was too overwhelmed with awe to pay heed to her derision. Sora held up a Ninja faction token. ¡°Your token is enchanted. It allows us to track you.¡± ¡°So, you¡¯ve been watching me?¡± ¡°Yes. And now, I¡¯ll be training you in the coming days. If you''re up to the task, that is.¡± ¡°Guess we¡¯ll have to behave ourselves with Sora around,¡± Kaito chuckled. Sora¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change. ¡°Does this look like a time for your childish humor, Kaito? There¡¯s no room for error, and Ember¡¯s role is crucial. If she fails, our entire faction is at risk.¡± ¡°Yes, Sora,¡± they said in unison, their playful demeanor gone. ¡°I understand,¡± I said. ¡°Good. Now, stop drinking and get some sleep. We start early tomorrow.¡± Everyone in the room bowed slightly to Sora. By the time I awkwardly followed suit, she was already gone. MISSION COMPLETE: SAMURAI CITY Travel to a Samurai city and find the Ninja faction. LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: I [Iron] Rank 2 Chapter 18: META Chapter 18: META
Day [23/40] Time Remaining Until Execution: [29 Days] If I blinked too early out of the Jingozi arena after touching a spell card, it didn¡¯t count¡ªthe pain was part of the game¡ªand I¡¯d have to accept it. For my next power card, the attack came from within. My stomach filled with fire, burning me from the inside out, eventually transforming me into a walking inferno. Hot lava shot up my throat and out my nose before I could escape. I blinked back to my room, racked in phantom pain. Kitty looked on, whining with concern. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A POWER CARD Evolve [2] Increase any 0 on your card by +1 for every Zii paid. It was my second [Evolve] card, meaning I''d draw it more frequently. I wondered if I''d get duplicates of all the others as well. A voice interrupted my thoughts. ¡°What are you doing?¡± I whirled around. Sora sat in the chair next to the bed¡ªno idea how long she¡¯d been there. She wore a full red ninja suit, her hood down, looking even more formidable. ¡°Nothing,¡± I groaned. ¡°Just a bad dream.¡± ¡°If you¡¯re going to lie, do it with some conviction.¡± Wait a second, why am I the one that suddenly feels like the enormous asshole here? "Suit up," she said. "Meet me in the next room.¡± * * * Sora and I stood in a large training room, the scent of sweat and dried blood hanging in the air. Across us, multiple wooden target dummies stood under electrical orbs that lit the room. ¡°The Ninja use a special technique with our Jingozi cards,¡± Sora began. ¡°We throw them like shuriken. The strength of the card and the amount of Zii you use determine the damage they do.¡± She opened her hand to load three cards. ¡°Watch closely.¡± Sora threw the first card with a flick of her wrist. It spun through the air with a high-pitched vibration, embedding itself into the chest of the first target dummy. The card evaporated into red smoke, leaving a wicked gash. In the same motion, Sora threw the second card. It sliced clean through the neck of the same dummy. The head fell to the ground with a dull thud. The third hit another dummy, exploding upon impact, engulfing it in flames. ¡°That¡¯s incredible,¡± I said, astonished. ¡°It¡¯s the minimum,¡± she snapped her wrist to load five more cards. ¡°This technique utilizes higher defense power. It allows more control for various utility, such as distraction, deflecting blows, or changing course to reach the target¡ªeven special effects.¡± She flicked her wrist again, sending all five cards flying. The first two curved past one set of dummies, hitting a single target in the next row. The third skimmed the ground under a dummy before shooting straight up to shatter a floating light. The fourth card burst into a smoke bomb in the back of the room. As the smoke cleared, the final card boomeranged around the room in a wide arc, slicing through the air until returning to Sora¡¯s outstretched hand. ¡°Anything less is worthless,¡± she stepped behind me and crossed her arms. ¡°Show me.¡± I loaded a card into my hand. With a deep breath, I closed my eyes and infused it with 1 Zii. ¡°Focus,¡± she said. ¡°Feel the flow of Zii within you and channel it into the card.¡± I hurled it at the nearest target dummy. The card fluttered in the air and fell short. ¡°Concentrate!¡± She adjusted my stance by kicking the backs of my knees. ¡°Channel your Zii properly.¡± I closed my eyes again, trying to center myself. Infusing another card with the maximum Zii, I fumbled it, and it dropped to the floor. You¡¯re making a serious fool of yourself, Ember Lynn. ¡°Unacceptable. You¡¯re useless.¡± ¡°I¡¯m trying,¡± my voice trembled. ¡°Trying is not enough. You have ten days, or you might as well accept your fate now.¡± She turned away, dismissing me with a wave. * * * I sat with Hikari and Kaito in the dining area, picking at my lunch. The twins exchanged glances before Hikari spoke up. ¡°Sora is harsh, no doubt, but she¡¯s the best. She¡¯s trained some of the greatest Ninjas in the faction and won many Jingozi tournaments.¡±Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more. Kaito acknowledged, adding, ¡°She does seem harder on you, Ember.¡± ¡°Do you think so?¡± I looked up from my bowl. ¡°She seems more¡­ intense with you,¡± he shrugged. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s because you¡¯re another Jingozi apprentice. She probably has higher expectations.¡± He leaned back in his chair with a smirk. ¡°Or she¡¯s jealous.¡± ¡°I can¡¯t imagine anyone being jealous of me,¡± I muttered, almost to myself. ¡°Some say she keeps a shuriken between her legs.¡± I spat my tea, and Hikari threw a stale crust at Kaito. He caught the bread without looking and took a bite, unperturbed. ¡°You¡¯re such an idiot, Kaito,¡± Hikari said. After a few more disgusted looks, she smiled at me. ¡°You¡¯re one of us now, and we¡¯re here to help. We promise to teach you some Zii-Kata techniques to help your card throws.¡± ¡°Yeah, we¡¯ve got your back, Ember,¡± Kaito said. ¡°We know it¡¯s tough, but we believe in you.¡± ¡°Thank you, both of you. It means a lot to me.¡± As we finished lunch, Hikari and Kaito shared accounts of their training mishaps, each more hilarious than the last. * * * The twins taught me new Zii-Kata forms and patterns, their synchronized movements making them look deceptively simple. However, the movements required precision, fluidity, and an intense focus I struggled to maintain¡ªespecially when my muscles burned from holding the same stance for minutes on end. They demonstrated target practice with throwing stars and kunai, but I wasn''t improving with my cards nearly as fast as I needed to. My throws kept going wide, and my footwork felt clumsy compared to their graceful demonstrations. They remained patient with each failed attempt, offering adjustments and encouragement with gentle voices. But I caught the slight doubt in their eyes when they thought I wasn''t looking, the uncertainty that deflated me. I''d seen that look before from people who expected more from me than I could deliver. * * * Day [24/40] Time Remaining Until Execution: [28 Days] As I sat to breakfast with Hikari and Kaito, Taikumi announced it was quiet in prison¡ªthe Samurai still believed my double was real. "What does that mean?" I asked. ¡°It gives us more time,¡± he said. "But don¡¯t waste it. How is your training progressing.¡± "Training?" I stirred my miso soup. "Well, to be honest¡ª" "Ember is doing great!" Hikari interjected. "Yeah, I couldn''t agree more," Kaito added. "She''ll be ready to show the Shogun that the Ninja faction is not to be taken lightly!" Taikumi smiled, poured himself some tea, and left the room. "Kaito!" I exclaimed. "Show the Shogun? Pouring it on a bit too thick, don''t you think?" "What did you expect?" Kaito shrugged. "That is indeed Kaito," Hikari quipped. We laughed. * * * The day was a blur of failure and mounting demoralization. I focused on the new Zii-Kata forms, trying to channel my Zii into the cards, but the results always fell short. The cards either lacked the necessary force or veered off course entirely. And the more I tried, the worse it got. By evening, my body ached, and I had nothing to show for it. I sat on the training room floor, exhausted and discouraged. Hikari placed a hand on my shoulder. ¡°It¡¯s okay, Ember. You¡¯re improving, even if it doesn¡¯t feel like it.¡± Kaito tried to lighten the mood with a joke, but I didn¡¯t hear it. ¡°Thanks, both of you. I just... I need to rest.¡± As I trudged back to my room, Kitty bounded past me. She had discovered a way outside, enjoying the freedom to come and go. I collapsed onto my bed, feeling the day¡¯s efforts in every muscle. Despite my exhaustion, sleep was elusive, with the futility of the day replaying in my head on autorepeat. ¡°Do you know why you fail?¡± Startled, I almost fell out of bed at her voice. ¡°You think it¡¯s a game,¡± Sora continued from the shadows. ¡°It¡¯s not. You¡¯re not in the Jingozi arena where your imagination is the weapon. The game makes you weak and gives you a false sense of security. You don¡¯t die in the Jingozi arena. Out here, you do. The consequences are real.¡± I hung my head, searching for words. ¡°Look, Sora, I get that¡ª" She was gone. * * * ¡°Is she right?¡± I asked the voice in the arena. ¡°That depends,¡± he said. ¡°Your original question, Ember, was whether or not you think this is all a game.¡± ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°And that¡¯s why you think you¡¯re failing.¡± ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°The answer is clear then,¡± he said. ¡°You don¡¯t think this is a game at all. You¡¯re taking it very seriously.¡± ¡°Thank you.¡± ¡°You take yourself too seriously.¡± ¡°Excuse me?¡± ¡°And that¡¯s the problem. It is all a game.¡± ¡°What?¡± ¡°Aren¡¯t you here because the Jingozi want you to play their game?¡± ¡°Yeah, but¡­¡± ¡°There are games within games,¡± he continued. ¡°Sora¡¯s training represents one level of the game. A Jingozi match is another¡ªeach with different rules. Your mistake is thinking it should all work the same. Some games have hard black-and-white rules while others don¡¯t.¡± ¡°What¡¯s the difference then? How do I know which one I¡¯m playing.¡± ¡°It depends on the game and what you care about.¡± ¡°Huh?¡± ¡°When you play poker, what do you care about?¡± ¡°Uh, okay. The goal is to win the other players¡¯ chips.¡± ¡°That¡¯s right. However, your strategy and system change when playing a cash game versus a tournament. Isn¡¯t it true that if you played a cash game like a tournament, you¡¯d surely lose, and vice versa?¡± ¡°Correct. I lost a lot of money making that mistake.¡± ¡°Okay, so let¡¯s go with that. Imagine the rest of your life was gamified. What do you care about then? How do you win at the game of life when there are games within the game?¡± ¡°This is getting meta.¡± ¡°Exactly. You¡¯ll figure it out.¡± * * * Day [25/40] Time Remaining Until Execution: [27 Days] The next day was another frustrating ordeal of failed attempts and mounting pressure. I hit the wall. After a dinner of rice balls, Hikari and Kaito turned to me with an encouraging smile. ¡°Alright, Ember. We¡¯re going to mix things up a bit,¡± Kaito said. ¡°The game is called Ninja Tag,¡± Hikari added. ¡°It¡¯s a great way to build reflexes and control, mixed with a lot of fun.¡± I followed them to another training arena filled with obstacles¡ªwalls to climb, ropes to swing from, and various structures to hide behind. ¡°The goal is simple,¡± Hikari explained. ¡°You use your cards to tag us while evading being tagged yourself. It¡¯s every Ninja for themselves.¡± Kaito held up a metal disc about the size of a CD. ¡°We¡¯re going to use these,¡± he grinned. ¡°But don¡¯t hold out on us. Half the fun is dodging your crazy Jingozi shots.¡± ¡°But Kaito, isn¡¯t that unfair? You could get hurt.¡± ¡°That¡¯s why we wear these,¡± Hikari tossed Kaito an armored vest. She pulled another over her head. ¡°Just make sure you throw defensive cards with the minimum Zii. Don¡¯t worry. Sora plays with us all the time.¡± I was unconvinced and stared dubiously around the arena. ¡°Ready?¡± Kaito said. ¡°Give us a ten-count head start.¡± We scattered. Ducking behind a concrete slab, I searched for any sign of them. I considered using the Jingozi arena, but what good would that do? A disc whistled out of nowhere to hit me in the ribs¡ªthe sting adding to my surprise¡ªtwo more pelted off the barrier inches above my head. Haphazarding a peek around the edge, another disc plunked me on the noggin. Snickers echoed from the shadows. The game continued as I hurled cards that might as well have been paper airplanes. Even bogged down by metal chest plates, Hikari and Kaito moved with such ease and agility, tagging each other while practically ignoring my attempts. Every tag hitting me added to the evidence of my total ineptitude. Eventually, I somewhat got the hang of it, even dodging a few tags. Landing a card on either of them was another story. After sliding behind a row of barrels, I spied Kaito sneaking up on Hikari, ready to pounce. Something came over me. My senses sharpened as if I were in the Jingozi arena, and my vision filled with dozens of red vectors curving and pointing to Kaito. Channeling Zii into a card, I mentally clicked on a flight path and launched it. My shot flew true, hitting Kaito squarely in the back. It exploded, lighting the arena with fireworks. The force sent him flying past Hikari into a metal barricade with a crash. Hikari¡¯s face turned to utter shock. She ran over to her fallen twin brother, using her sleeves to snuff out the flames. Chapter 19: LFG Chapter 19: LFG
My stats log showed I¡¯d thrown a [1/7] card that hit Kaito. I''d consciously tried to throw lower attack and defense cards, but that was the highest defense score. What was the difference? Did lower risk and higher reward cards mean I could aim them better with the effects Sora had demonstrated? Kaito lay in bed on his stomach, Kitty beside him as she licked his burns. I shuddered, thinking about how much more damage I wouldn''t have inflicted if he wasn''t wearing the armored vest. Sora¡¯s hands glowed with Zii-Kata as she worked on healing the deep purple bruising covering his entire back. ¡°Kaito, are you okay?¡± I asked, stricken with guilt. He lifted his head, a tired but genuine smile on his face. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m okay. That was a good shot.¡± ¡°Indeed," Sora scoffed. "You¡¯re finally figuring things out, Ember,¡± ¡°Kaito, I¡¯m sorry I lost control.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t be. It was impressive. I knew you¡¯d get it.¡± Hikari entered the room, carrying a tray. ¡°I brought some tea and snacks,¡± she announced. ¡°Thought you could use a break.¡± She handed us cups of steaming tea and a plate of sweet rice cakes. Hikari offered Sora a plate, but she was finished. ¡°Kaito, you¡¯ll need a day for the healing to take hold,¡± she stood. ¡°Don¡¯t get too comfortable, especially you, Ember. There¡¯s still a lot of work to be done. But I¡¯ll let you have your moment.¡± Sora left the room, her presence lingering as always. Hikari settled beside us, her cheerful demeanor a welcome change. ¡°Thanks, Hikari,¡± I said, sipping the tea. ¡°I needed this.¡± ¡°Of course. And Kaito¡¯s been hit with worse. If he won, we¡¯d never hear the end of it.¡± ¡°My sister makes the best rice cakes, and she''s not wrong,¡± Kaito winced, sitting up to pet Kitty. ¡°But it¡¯s not every day that I get bested by a beginner.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll take that as a compliment,¡± I laughed, hugging him. ¡°Never change Kaito. Never change.¡± * * * Day [26/40] Time Remaining Until Execution: [26 Days] I slipped into the training room alone. Pressing a Zii coin into a small stand, the room reset twelve target dummies in three rows of four. Each dummy was carved from wood and looked more like Demi-Golems wearing oversized armor. I tossed a card at the nearest dummy. It fluttered flat, slapped the target in the face, and floated to the floor. Okay, Ember, it''s time to try something different. Remember what happened with Kaito and Hikari¡­ With a breath, I closed my eyes and let my imagination take the reins. In my mind, the front row of dummies transformed into allies, while the back row became enemies, which I envisioned as Samurai. I fired the first card, a [2/6], and it found its mark, thudding into the chest of a Samurai dummy before vanishing in a puff of red smoke. Encouraged, I threw another, a [1/5], curving it through the air to strike another Samurai with a concussive blast. Each card was spun for a higher defense score. And with every throw, I focused on letting Zii flow through me and into the cards, freeing myself from thoughts of success or failure. Don¡¯t do, Em¡ªjust be. The trajectory of the cards adjusted with subtle shifts of my arm and fingers. It wasn¡¯t about what was before me but how I visualized it. It was seeing and selecting the path, marked by red vectors before the card took flight. Each throw became more precise than the last, with a random effect. Some curved and flashed, others ignited with flames, but they all found their mark. A notification pinged. FEAT ACHIEVED: SHURIKEN TECHNIQUE [NINJA] You have learned to throw Jingozi cards as shuriken. I took a moment to catch my breath, feeling the rush of newly learned skills coursing through me. I pressed another Zii coin into the control panel. The dummies reset, new and pristine, ready for another round. As the dummies reappeared, I examined my hand. I''d stay with higher defense scores this time but focus on the effects. Okay, let¡¯s see how these babies perform... I tossed the first card, a stun shot, at the closest dummy. The card glided through the air gracefully, striking the target with a soft thud before erupting in a blinding flash of light.If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. Not lethal, but definitely effective. I could feel the flow of Zii connecting better as I launched a series of cards. The ricochet shot bounced off one dummy and struck another in a beautifully orchestrated arc. With each throw, the resistance I felt earlier began to fade. The defense score on the cards translated into more significant control over their trajectories and effects. I switched up my attacks, throwing a smoke bomb. It released a cloud that obscured my vision. Next, I tossed a fire shot, igniting the very edge of the smoke cloud. The flames flickered and danced, creating an illusion of danger. I unleashed the rest of my cards one by one, marveling at the effectiveness. Though non-lethal, each card flew true, and their effects delivered tremendous damage in creative ways. It¡¯s as if I''m painting a canvas, I mused, executing a boomerang shot that returned to my hand after striking multiple targets with satisfying thuds. The dummies fell one by one, their reinforced wooden bodies not shattered but splintered. It showcased what could be accomplished with finesse over sheer force. When the dust settled, only stalks of splintered wood remained, and the dummies were reduced to smoldering rubble. Lazy trails of smoke clouded the room. DEFENSE META UNLOCKED Gain special abilities and buffs when playing battle cards with a higher defense score during PVE. Do you choose the defense meta? There is only one meta allowed per player. This choice is permanent. [Yes/N0] Yes. YOU ARE NOW DEFENSE META A floating Jingozi deck box materialized before me. DO YOU WISH TO LOOT THE JINGOZI CARD BOX? [Yes/No] Another yes. The chest opened, displaying three Ninja cards in the silk padding. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A JINGOZI BUFF CARD This upgrade card will add a passive bonus to your entire deck. Option 1: Multi-Attack Play up to 5 cards in one turn during PVE. Each card costs a minimum of 2 Zii. Does not affect spell cards. Option 2: Defend/Reward +1 All your cards receive a +1 defense bonus during PVE, increasing rewards. Bonus: Defend +2 if you have chosen the defense meta. Option 3: Expand Hand Preview the top 5 cards in your deck and draw one into your hand. Costs 1 Zii. Bonus Action: Place one card at the bottom of your deck for 1 extra Zii. Sora must have option one, which was enticing. However, the Zii cost was a concern. Option two aligned with my metagame. Finally, option three was definitely tempting. I picked option two. DO YOU SELECT [OPTION 2: DEFEND/REWARD +1]? All your cards receive a +1 defense bonus during PVE. Bonus: Defend +2 if you have chosen the defense meta. This choice is permanent. [Yes/No] Yes, yes, I do. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A DEFEND +2 BUFF All your cards receive a +2 defense bonus during PVE. Let¡¯s fucking go. Sora stepped into the room and paused to survey what was left of the dummies. ¡°You¡¯re needed in the prison cell today for interrogation,¡± she said. ¡°Of course, Sora. I¡¯m ready.¡± Before leaving, I checked my stats. STATUS: Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: I [Iron] Rank 3 Faction: Ninja [Field] Zii: 72/100 Cards: 10/36 Deck Upgrades: Meta: Defense Attack: - Defense: +2 Buff: - Special: * * * The Ninja twins escorted me back to my Samurai prison. During the exchange, I managed to sneak in a quick hug with my double, whispering, ¡°Thank you.¡± She held me tightly in return. A few hours later, Jon Deerfoot strolled into the room alone. ¡°How are your accommodations?¡± he asked, surveying my quarters with slight disdain. ¡°I¡¯ll manage,¡± I said. Sora instructed me to be short with my answers and not reveal any significant detail. I was to feign ignorance and claim innocence. ¡°I¡¯ll get to the point,¡± the elf started. ¡°With word the caravan was missing, the Samurai deployed a search party before you arrived in Raishoto. I, of course, have an inside man amidst their ranks. A little birdie that loves to chirp, incentivized with enough coin, of course." "And?" "They tracked all the Samurai tokens to a gruesome battle scene in the forest several days north¡ªquite the adventure you must¡¯ve had. The entire area was scorched and charred. A Blight Golem was dispatched, and its remains were examined. I loathe even to imagine how nasty that would¡¯ve been.¡± ¡°Oh?¡± ¡°Yes, indeed, my dear. But then they found a worn trail and two camps. The first was a burrow with three old piles of ash¡ªa Jingozi dealer on their trials¡ªyours, I presume. The next was a small clearing with old blood, but their trackers say it would have been an adult wearing armor and a smaller companion¡ªmost likely a child. But the trail ran cold from there.¡± ¡°So, you know I¡¯m telling the truth.¡± ¡°Well, it appears there are three conclusions,¡± he said, glancing back at the guards. ¡°The first possibility is you found and killed them, stealing the scroll and Samurai faction token. The second is you¡¯re telling the truth, and they¡¯re still alive. The third is you¡¯re telling the truth, and you left them to die.¡± ¡°And why the hell would I do that? A boy is more important than a scroll.¡± my poker face disappeared. I was losing my cool to the elf''s amusement. ¡°In the meantime, it appears the Ninja faction has chosen to make an example of you,¡± his pointy ears perked. ¡°There¡¯s been a demand for your release, followed by a series of high-profile crimes across the city. The prevailing message is that the Shogun is so cruel that he will execute anybody, even the ones that come to his aid.¡± He paused to rub his chin. ¡°What I don¡¯t understand is if you are, in fact, a member of the Ninja faction, why not negotiate? And why would you help the Samurai faction and Yukiko in the first place?¡± ¡°Yukiko?¡± ¡°Oh yes, to be thorough, they visited your friend Yukiko. I hear she is one tough battle axe¡ªmy kind of woman.¡± I clasped the bars. The guards charged their taser spears, but Jon waved them off. ¡°Yukiko claims you were a tribute¡ªa consort she freed from a northern Emperor. But that doesn¡¯t make sense. Either Yukiko didn¡¯t realize you were a Jingozi apprentice, or she did and had a plan to betray the Shogun.¡± ¡°Why do you care so much?¡± ¡°Well, my dear Ember. I now have an extra incentive. You see, I¡¯m a member of the Emperor faction. If you were taken from us, my people should know something. I¡¯m sure there¡¯s a fellow Emperor who would reward me handsomely.¡± I managed to bite my tongue. ¡°Come now, love,¡± he said. ¡°We can end this right now. Give the Shogun what he wants. I¡¯ll collect the bounty and leave you with the Samurai. We can forget the entire part about betraying the Emperor faction.¡± I turned my back. ¡°Suit yourself,¡± he sighed. ¡°I do have to warn you. The Shogun gets impatient. I was your last chance before he sends in other interrogators with more¡­ persuasive tactics.¡± * * * After hours of Zii-Kata, the floating card formed before me. ¡°Hey, voice?¡± I called. ¡°Yes?¡± ¡°You said I can influence the area where my dimensional circle overlaps another, right?¡± ¡°Correct.¡± I touched the spell card after loading my hand. Dozens of severed, slimy zombie hands sprouted from the ground, their decaying flesh wrapping around my arms, legs, and torso. Each grip was a vice. Wherever they touched, the skin began to rot. The hands climbed higher, causing my face to decay and stifling my breathing. I was wrestled to the ground, my back slamming against the hard floor. More hands emerged, pummeling me from all sides. Rot filled my nostrils. My heart pounded in my ears as my vision blurred. One hand forced itself down my throat. Resisting the instinct to blink out, I flicked a max-charged card into the air. It boomeranged back, slicing through my cheek while severing the hand. It disintegrated into smoke, leaving a vile taste. As I fought to roll onto my front, other hands grappled me down, their grip relentless, overwhelming me with numbers. One hand slammed me in the mouth again, dislodging several teeth. ¡°No!¡± A sonic boom erupted from within, sending shockwaves that disintegrated all the hands into ash. I remained still for a moment, spitting teeth before they lodged in my throat. Rising to my knees, panting, the remnants of smoke swirling around me with the bitter taste of tar in my bloody mouth. My skin drooped like melting wax. As I blinked out of the arena, the voice said, ¡°Well done, Ember, now you¡¯re starting to get it.¡± YOU HAVE RECEIVED A POWER CARD Poison Strike Chapter 20: PROTECTOR Chapter 20: PROTECTOR
That night, I swapped places again with my decoy double. Sora came for the exchange, and we crept back through the tunnels to Thunder Temple. ¡°Where are the twins?¡± I asked. ¡°Preparing for their mission,¡± she said, a few steps ahead of me. I barely registered what she said, lost in my thoughts. ¡°Sora, I think the Samurai are going to torture me.¡± ¡°Yes, Ember, that¡¯s what they do with prisoners who won¡¯t talk. Any other profound insights you want to share?.¡± ¡°What if they figure things out?¡± ¡°We have time. They¡¯ll first give you an official chance to preserve the appearance that they¡¯ve followed the rule of law.¡± ¡°And after that?¡± ¡°That¡¯s a future problem¡ªfor you.¡± I needed to change the subject. ¡°What were your trials like when you¡ª¡± Sora whirled and clutched me by the throat, holding a burning card to my face. ¡°Is everybody so nosey wherever you¡¯re from? Never ask me about my past. We are stuck with you because the Jingozi forced you into our lives. Don¡¯t tempt me to execute you on the Shogun¡¯s behalf.¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± I quivered, tears filling my eyes. ¡°You cry too much,¡± she shoved me down. ¡°Save that weakness for your herald. Maybe you¡¯ll find the pity you¡¯re not getting from me or our faction.¡± She stormed off. * * * Day [27/40] Time Remaining Until Execution: [25 Days] Taikumi called me into the war room and was about to start. But he paused to observe my countenance, still shaken from my encounter with Sora. ¡°My child,¡± he said, ¡°what¡¯s wrong?¡± ¡°Why is Sora so cruel to me?¡± Taikumi frowned, pausing to measure his following words. ¡°She didn¡¯t tell you?¡± ¡°Tell me what?¡± ¡°She used to be like you.¡± ¡°Huh?¡± ¡°She was a vessel. She hosted one of your kind seven years ago.¡± ¡°No way,¡± I said. ¡°Wait, you know where I¡¯m from?¡± ¡°Yes, but only Sora and me.¡± ¡°How?¡± ¡°That¡¯s not important,¡± he said. ¡°Though it explains why Sora is one of our fiercest warriors. She was endowed with great powers. But despite all her gifts, she now harbors a great hatred towards the Jingozi. I often fear it will destroy her from within.¡± Taikumi put his hands on my shoulders and furrowed his brow. ¡°I¡¯ve said enough, my child. Let¡¯s keep this our secret for the moment. Do this old merchant a favor and pour us some tea. We have exciting work to do.¡± * * * ¡°Ember,¡± Taikumi began, ¡°there¡¯s something you must understand about the Ninja faction. We aren¡¯t just warriors of the shadows. We¡¯re protectors of the people. Our origins lie in a group of commoners and former samurai who banded together to fight corruption and injustice. The authorities turn a blind eye to the suffering of the common folk, and so it falls upon us.¡± ¡°So, we¡¯re like vigilantes?¡± ¡°In a way, yes. The Ninja faction balances the scales, ensuring those without power have a voice. We take on contracts from the commoners with nowhere else to turn.¡± He held up a stack of notes. ¡°These are requests from the people. Each represents a plea for help, a story of injustice that must be set right. It¡¯s our duty and honor to answer these calls.¡± I plucked one of the papers. It was a hastily written note in a foreign language. ¡°What do I need to do?¡± Taikumi smiled. ¡°You will accept missions. Each will test your skills and growth, allowing you to serve while progressing as a Jingozi apprentice.¡± ¡°What about the other Ninjas?¡± ¡°Everyone, including Sora, Kaito, and Hikari, has taken on political missions to harass the Shogunate. We can¡¯t risk your capture while you¡¯re in training.¡±Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. ¡°I have a request if I can.¡± Taikumi raised an eyebrow. ¡°I don¡¯t want to kill anybody,¡± I said. ¡°We are Ninjas¡­¡± ¡°I am defense meta.¡± ¡°I see. It¡¯s most unusual for a Ninja to choose such a path.¡± ¡°You said Ninjas are the ¡®protectors of the people.¡¯ Well, I¡¯m your girl.¡± He snorted and followed up with a deep belly laugh. ¡°Very well, Ember. Your request is accepted.¡± NEW QUEST: NINJA GUILD Complete 10 Ninja Guild Missions Bonus experience for extra missions completed before the time limit. Progress: [0/10] Taikumi handed me my first mission note, which I could now read. NEW MISSION: SHOPKEEPER EXTORTION Stop thugs from extorting the shopkeeper. ¡°This is a plea from a shopkeeper in the market district,¡± he said. ¡°He¡¯s been harassed by a group of thugs demanding protection money. The authorities won¡¯t help him, so he turned to us. Your mission is to stop their extortion and ensure the shopkeeper¡¯s safety.¡± * * * I was relieved to be outdoors for a change. Being cooped up underground and in prison cells was driving me crazy. Night had fallen, and the rain poured down. From the shopkeeper¡¯s rooftop, I scanned the area, my eyes adjusting to the darkness with Kitty draped around my shoulders. We were both soaked, yet somehow she still managed to fall asleep. The market was quiet, the usual hustle and bustle replaced by the steady patter of rain. The shopkeeper had described the thugs¡¯ routine¡ªthey showed up at night to collect their so-called protection money. While I waited, I spent Zii cycling through my deck, swapping for the ideal cards. Not knowing if it was a good idea, I burned spells like my strikes, just in case. Reorganizing my hand and spinning cards for maximum defense, I wouldn¡¯t risk another Kaito incident. I checked my hand one more time. Hand: [2/4] [4/5] [5/6] [1/7] [4/7] My meta buff would add +2 to the defense score, and I planned to make the most of it. Four men in grungy beige Gi strolled towards the shopkeeper¡¯s stall. I assumed the one holding an umbrella was the leader. They laughed and joked as they approached. ¡°Here they come, Kitty,¡± I whispered, rubbing her chin. ¡°Remember, I¡¯ll call if I need you, and no lethal force.¡± They reached the stall to start their usual antics. The shopkeeper, an elderly man with a kind face, stepped out to confront them, but he had no money to offer. His defiance only provoked more jeers and mockery. The cocky leader wagged a finger, dropped the umbrella, and brandished an axe. My smoke bomb exploded before them. They stumbled back, coughing and disoriented. I stepped off the ledge, landing between them and the shopkeeper. ¡°Who the hell are you?¡± the leader choked. Ignoring him, I focused on the first thug, channeling a card-powered open-palm strike to his chest. He flew across the street, slamming into a storefront, collapsing unconscious on the pavement. The other thug and the leader charged with axes raised. I ducked and rolled beneath their swings. I threw another card, its energy humming as it struck the leader¡¯s wrist, sending the axe spinning out of his grasp. He howled in pain, his hand now half severed, practically dangling by tendons from his wrist. Am I still using too much power? With a swift kick, I swept the second thug¡¯s legs out from under him and hit him mid-air with another card, sending him crashing into a stack of crates. A lantern struck me from behind, dousing me in oil and fire. Kitty had already glinted out of danger. NINJA KIMONO: FIRE PROTECTION [PASSIVE] Cost: 2 Zii I¡¯d totally forgotten about my armor. Sizzling in the rain, I strode toward the last thug like a stuntman on fire. He panicked and tried to run, but I fired a Jingozi card, aiming for his legs. The card tripped him, sending him face-first into the pavement with an audible crunch. As I caught my breath, the fire died down. I turned to face the leader, who glared at me, blood still spewing from his wrist. ¡°You¡¯ll pay for this,¡± he hissed. ¡°Not tonight.¡± I tied the thugs together with the rope from my inventory. The shopkeeper emerged from behind a cart. ¡°Thank you,¡± he said, his voice trembling. ¡°I didn¡¯t think anyone would help.¡± ¡°You¡¯re welcome.¡± But now, there was a problem. What was I supposed to do with these four thugs? Should I leave them here¡ªhang them from a pole with a note? ¡°You¡¯ll regret asking for help! The Iron Fists always collect our debts! We¡¯ll be back!¡± the leader cursed into the street, now filled with onlookers holding umbrellas. Something in me boiled over. ¡°No, you won¡¯t,¡± I said. With four more flicks of my wrist and four max-charged cards, I made sure they¡¯d never walk on two legs again. MISSION COMPLETE: SHOPKEEPER EXTORTION Stop thugs from extorting the shopkeeper. QUEST UPDATE: NINJA GUILD Complete 10 Ninja Guild Missions Progress: [1/10] Remaining Time: [25 Days] * * * ¡°Taikumi,¡± I said, bubbling with excitement, ¡°I did it. I stopped the Iron Fist gang¡ªa dumb name, by the way¡ªthe shopkeeper¡¯s safe. He was such a sweet old man. You should have seen it!¡± ¡°Well done, then, Ember. You¡¯ve completed your first mission.¡± Takumi tossed me a pouch of coins. ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± I asked. ¡°We may be protectors of the people, but we don¡¯t work for free,¡± he said. ¡°That is your cut. The rest goes to the guild.¡± ¡°Wow, we get paid to do justice? This is amazing.¡± ¡°Remember, every mission is different, and overconfidence can be dangerous.¡± ¡°I understand, sir!¡± I saluted. ¡°I won¡¯t get cocky.¡± My head went woozy, and I collapsed. Kitty scrambled off my shoulders as Taikumi caught me. ¡°Easy, my child,¡± he said. ¡°It looks like you¡¯re low on Zii.¡± I checked my resource levels. Zii: 11/100 Cards: 16/36 He was right. In all the excitement, I ignored how much Zii I spent cycling my deck for the right cards and the fight itself. Taikumi eased me into a chair. ¡°Good, Ember. As you can see, there¡¯s always more to learn and improve.¡± * * * I lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, unable to sleep. The events of the night replayed in my mind like a broken record. The thugs'' screams rang in my ears, their broken legs carving into my memory. I had stopped them, yes, but at what cost? Kitty curled up next to me, purring softly. I absentmindedly stroked her fur, my thoughts a tangled mess of justifications and doubts. "Did I go too far, Kitty?" I whispered. She blinked at me and squeaked. Of course, she couldn''t answer, but she''d be my sounding board tonight. "They were hurting people, extorting them. They deserved to be stopped," I reasoned. "But did they deserve never to walk again?" I rolled onto my side, facing the wall. Part of my was aghast with myself. The image of the leader''s half-severed hand flashed before my eyes. I squeezed them shut, trying to block it out. "With great power comes great responsibility," I murmured, recalling the famous quote from Spider-Man. Drawing wisdom from a superhero movie seemed silly, but the words oddly resonated much more profoundly now. As a Jingozi apprentice, I now wielded power beyond anything I''d ever imagined, even when I arrived here. My cards could incapacitate, maim, and even kill with frightening ease. It was an absurdly far cry from my days as a poker player and social media influencer. "But doesn''t that power come with the responsibility to protect those who can''t protect themselves?" I thought about the shopkeeper''s grateful face, the relief in his eyes. How many others like him suffered under the thumb of criminals like the Iron Fists¡ªthe Jingozi? "Maybe this is why I was chosen. To be a protector, to use this power for good." But the doubt lingered. Was permanent injury truly justice? Or, as cliche as it sounded, was I becoming the very thing I sought to stop? As exhaustion finally began to take hold, I found myself rationalizing my actions. "I''m protecting the people," I mumbled, sleep creeping. "What''s that quote again? Sometimes, you have to fight fire with fire, right?" Suddenly, my world seemed much more complicated. Chapter 21: HERO Chapter 21: HERO
Day [28/40] Time Remaining Until Execution: [24 Days] NEW MISSION: THE CORRUPT MERCHANT Gather evidence of a corrupt merchant and sabotage his operations. "Your target is a corrupt merchant named Hideo Tanaka," Taikumi explained. He''s been gouging the local market with stolen goods. We need you to gather evidence and sabotage his operations." According to the mission details, a regular shipment would arrive tonight. Following the scroll''s directions, I made my way to the docks. The salty air filled my lungs as I crouched behind a stack of crates, just in time to watch a weathered ship pull into port. Crew members scurried about, securing the vessel for the night. My eyes narrowed. Judging from the security, it had to be Tanaka''s illicit cargo. I slipped onto the docked supply ship under the cover of darkness, weaving through a maze of crates and barrels. There was a pungent scent of spices. In the distance, thunderclouds lit up the sky with flashes of lightning. With Kitty by my side, I counted the number of guards on patrol, assessing the situation.[1] Finding the evidence in an office was the easy part. I uncovered ledgers detailing the merchant¡¯s illegal price-gouging activities and stashed them in my inventory. All text was in a foreign script, resembling a mix of Japanese and Arabic. But anything relevant to my mission appeared in English¡ªa feature I assumed was courtesy of the Jingozi. After more exploration, I found and punctured any container that might be flammable. The guards were surprisingly lax, milling around and distracting themselves with idle conversation. We slipped away undetected back onto the dock. On the other side of the port, about the length of two football fields away, I loaded a [2/5] card and checked the red guiding vector on my interface. The shot would fall short. Switching to a [3/7] card, which became a [3/9] with the defense buff, the vector extended far enough to reach the target if I arced it like a golf shot. The card zipped into a supply shed on the dock, starting a fire. Alarms blared as the crew rushed off the ship to extinguish the growing blaze. My next card, a fully charged [6/7], sailed through a window in the hull and exploded inside. Within moments, the entire vessel burst into flames. MISSION COMPLETE: THE CORRUPT MERCHANT Gather evidence of a corrupt merchant and sabotage his operations. QUEST UPDATE: NINJA GUILD Complete 10 Ninja Guild Missions Progress: [2/10] Remaining Time: [24 Days] ¡°Stop right there!¡± A pair of Samurai guards spotted me, but I threw a smoke bomb at their feet. With no other option, we dove into the icy waters and hid beneath the dock. Kitty kept me warm as more guards searched the area above. Once they gave up and moved on, I dragged myself into a nearby shack. ¡°That was way too close, Kitty. Let¡¯s not do that again.¡± * * * Day [29/40] Time Remaining Until Execution: [23 Days] NEW MISSION: THE CORRUPT OFFICIAL Gain leverage on a minor Samurai official extorting the poor. The information from the corrupt merchant¡¯s ledgers pointed me to my next mission target¡ªa minor Samurai official involved in a related extortion scheme. My mission was to confront and intimidate him into ceasing his activities. After speaking with local merchants, I learned he frequently enjoyed the company of geishas sent from a nearby brothel. It was another stormy night. I positioned myself on a roof across the brothel, watching the geishas prepare for their regular visits, waiting until their cart was ready to depart. A well-placed [2/4] card disabled the back wheel. Disguising myself as one of the geishas, I wrapped my Ninja scarf to cover my hair and adjusted my kimono to look the part. Arriving at the official¡¯s residence, Kitty leaped onto the roof. As we both leveled up, our communication verged on telepathic, allowing us to sense each other¡¯s intentions without words. A guard stopped me at the entrance. I told him I was a surprise appointment, compliments of the house for his generous patronage. Summoning my best geisha charm, I flirted with him, batting my eyes with a seductive smile. My disguise wasn¡¯t perfect¡ªlike Sora¡¯s would have been¡ªbut I flashed enough skin to compensate. Taken by the act, he motioned me in without further questions. I stepped into the official¡¯s office, eager to get out of my ridiculous outfit. Once inside, I transformed the kimono into my Ninja suit. Spending 1 Zii, its self-cleaning and repair function dried me off in a flash. I searched the office.If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. Moments later, a guard entered to check on me. My kimono transformed back in a heartbeat, and I reappeared as a geisha. The guard found me lounging on the desk, attempting the cutest pouty face I could muster. After ogling, he licked his lips and left. As soon as the door closed, the Ninja suit was back on. When the official finally entered, I wasted no time. Stepping forward, I held up the incriminating papers. ¡°Recognize these?¡± ¡°Who are you? How did you get those?¡± his surprise turned to anger. I let the weight of the evidence do the talking. The official¡¯s response was a bribe, offering money and political favors. He shifted to threats when he saw I wasn¡¯t swayed. ¡°You have no idea who you¡¯re trifling with,¡± he stepped closer. Kitty slipped in through an open window, as silent as a whisper. She leaped onto his back, wrapping her tail across his chest. Scales pierced through his uniform, just enough to send the proper message. The color drained from his face, and sweat beads formed on his brow. ¡°What you¡¯re experiencing,¡± I said, ¡°is what I affectionately refer to as the corset of blades. It¡¯s a horrible way to die. I¡¯ve seen it firsthand.¡± With a mental nod, Kitty¡¯s scales dug deeper as blood started to seep through his clothes. ¡°Alright, alright!¡± he pleaded. ¡°I¡¯ll stop! Just get this thing off me!¡± Kitty released him, darting back to my side. ¡°I¡¯d retire and rethink your life choices, or we¡¯ll be back.¡± ¡°Guards! Help!¡± My smoke bomb exploded in the office, and we vanished, along with all other records he¡¯d never want to become public. MISSION COMPLETE: THE CORRUPT OFFICIAL Gain leverage on a minor Samurai official extorting the poor. QUEST UPDATE: NINJA GUILD Complete 10 Ninja Guild Missions Progress: [3/10] Remaining Time: [23 Days] I stopped by the brothel. The wagon was still unrepaired, and the officer hadn¡¯t sounded any alarms. Despite this, I worried about retaliation. I froze, realizing my face was completely exposed. How could I have been so careless? The adrenaline from the mission must have clouded my judgment. I quickly reached for my mask, but it was too late. "Well, well, what do we have here?" a sultry voice called out. I turned to see an elegant woman emerge from the brothel''s entrance. Her elaborate kimono and confident demeanor marked her as the Okami¡ªthe madam of the establishment. "A little ninja playing dress-up, are we?" she smirked, her eyes appraising me. "You know, with a face like that, you could make a fortune here instead of risking your pretty neck out there." I tensed, ready to bolt, but she waved her hand dismissively. "Relax, child. I have no interest in turning you in. Bad for business, you see. But I do have a proposition for you." Before I could respond, several geishas appeared behind her¡ªfaces painted white and lips blood-red. They moved with seductive grace, circling me like predators. "Come now," one cooed, running a long, painted nail along my arm. "Why fight when you could live in luxury?" "We could teach you things you''ve never dreamed of," another pressed against my back, her breath hot on my neck. "Thanks, but no thanks," I stepped away, my voice firm. The Okami laughed, a sound like tinkling bells. "Oh, darling. Do you think what you''re doing now isn''t working? At least here, you''d be safe. Protected." The other geisha joined in with a chorus of giggles, sounding like a bunch of drunk junior-high brats. "That''s enough, girls, back to work," the Okami waved dismissively. She fixed me with a piercing stare. "Remember, little ninja. My offer stands. When you tire of playing hero, there will always be a place for you here." "I have a counteroffer," I said. Handing the brothel Okami a heavy pouch of coins and currency notes swiped from the official, I instructed her to give all her girls the week off. She was initially obstinate, as expected, but I pressed a Jingozi token into her palm for good measure. Her face went pale, noticeable even under the thick makeup. She recanted with a rapid succession of bows. * * * Day [30/40] Time Remaining Until Execution: [22 Days] NEW MISSION: THE SECRET MEETING Protect the meeting of a local resistance group. The leaders of a local resistance group organized a secret meeting to strategize against the Samurai regime. The contract was to protect the meeting from spies, saboteurs, and even rogue mercenary Ninjas. The clandestine gathering was convened in an abandoned temple on the city¡¯s outskirts. The night was crisp and clear, and the moon cast shadows on the ancient stone walls. I crouched in the rafters, watching for any signs of intrusion. Kitty climbed up a beam to my side and thumped her tail. Clambering onto the roof, I nodded, and she jumped out the window. Blinking into the Jingozi arena, I assessed the situation. A group of six slinking through the forest appeared to be regular mercenaries¡ªnot Ninja. ¡°Are we having fun yet?¡± the voice teased. ¡°When did you get so cheeky?¡± I laughed. After blinking back, I wasted no time loading more Jingozi cards. I sent them sailing through the air, each transforming into a flash grenade upon impact. The forest erupted into a dazzling light display, blinding the unsuspecting spies. Their confusion was palpable, and I couldn''t help but enjoy the sight as they stumbled about, disoriented and unsure. In a flash, Kitty parked herself beside me to watch the show. "This is probably overkill, Kitty. But I need the practice. Watch this." A barrage of smoke bombs engulfed the area in thick, choking clouds, filling the air with startled shouts and curses. Not stopping there, I unleashed a volley of concussive shots, the mini booms echoing through the night. The combination of sensory overload proved too much for our unwelcome guests. I watched with satisfaction as they scattered like leaves in the wind, stumbling and tripping over each other in their haste to retreat to their original hiding spots. MISSION COMPLETE: THE SECRET MEETING Protect the meeting of a local resistance group. QUEST UPDATE: NINJA GUILD Complete 10 Ninja Guild Missions Progress: [4/10] Remaining Time: [23 Days] I felt more accomplished in one month than in all my twenty-four years. Entering the war room, Hikari and Kaito¡¯s faces lit up with excitement. ¡°Hey, you two! How did your missions go?¡± I asked, giving them an embrace. ¡°I stole this from a secret Shogunate vault. It contains documents that will ruin several corrupt officials.¡± Kaito grinned, holding up a small, hand-carved box. ¡°I exposed a high-ranking Samurai having an affair with the Shogun¡¯s wife and concubine,¡± Hikari added. ¡°He¡¯s in hiding, but the scandal is out.¡± We drank tea and exchanged more stories, reveling in our success. ¡°Ember,¡± a stern voice cut through our conversation. Taikumi stood at the entrance, looking uncharacteristically grumpy. ¡°I need to speak with you. Now, please.¡± With a gulp, I followed him into a more secluded part of the temple. Kaito and Hikari watched with concern but stayed behind. ¡°The city is whispering about a Jingozi Ninja,¡± Taikumi began. ¡°They say she¡¯s the new hero to the people. You¡¯re attracting too much attention.¡± ¡°I¡¯m being careful. And what¡¯s wrong with being a hero? I¡¯m fixing the problems in this city, helping people with no one else to turn to, like you told me to.¡± ¡°You¡¯re putting the entire guild at risk! We operate in secret for a reason. The more visible you become, the more danger you bring to all of us.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t care about staying in the shadows. People need help, and I¡¯m giving it to them.¡± I crossed my arms. ¡°By shutting down a brothel for a week?¡± ¡°What else was I supposed to do?¡± ¡°A Jingozi token, no less,¡± he shook his head. ¡°You¡¯re not listening, Ember. This isn¡¯t just about you alone. It¡¯s about all of us. If you draw too much attention, the Shogun will bear the weight of all his might down on the entire guild.¡± ¡°It is about me. It¡¯s about getting home, Taikumi.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not what you said a moment ago. What is it about, then?¡± Part of me knew he was speaking the truth and had me dead to rights. But I opened my stubborn mouth to argue anyway. He raised his hand to stop me. ¡°One day, my child, you will learn that not all problems are yours to fix or can be fixed, especially your own.¡± ¡°But, Taikumi¡ª" ¡°Enough of this troubling conversation,¡± He raised his hand again. ¡°The twins will take you back to your cell tonight. An official diplomatic negotiation is scheduled for tomorrow.¡± As he turned to leave, Sora stood in the doorway. She met my gaze, her expression a stone-cold poker face. Chapter 22: EDRIC Chapter 22: EDRIC
Day [31/40] Time Remaining Until Execution: [21 Days] The Shogun''s official herald sat behind a table, reading from a scroll with an air of self-importance that made my eye twitch. A sweaty, obese man, his robes strained at the seams, threatening to burst at any moment. He was nothing more than a messenger with blustering arrogance failing to conceal his incompetence, reminding me of countless wannabe high-rollers I''d encountered at the poker tables in Vegas. His pudgy fingers fumbled with the scroll as he cleared his throat, preparing to deliver what I was sure he thought was earth-shattering news. I couldn''t help but roll my eyes, already exhausted by his presence and the charade of authority he was putting on. ¡°Lady Ember, by the order of the Lord Shogun, I have been sent to offer you a proposal. In his infinite wisdom and benevolence, our Lord Shogun understands the delicate nature of the current political climate and seeks to avoid unnecessary conflict. In light of this, he extends an olive branch. The Lord Shogun is willing to negotiate terms to secure your release and ensure the safety of those you represent. In return, he requests a cessation of hostilities and a commitment to resolve this matter through peaceful dialogue." I watched him pause, his eyes darting to my face as he feigned clearing his throat. It was a transparent attempt to read my reaction. My face remained an impassive mask, and my eyes bore into him without betraying a hint of emotion. The silence stretched between us, thick and uncomfortable¡ªfor him. He shifted his weight, clearly unnerved by my lack of response. Finally, unable to maintain the charade any longer, he coughed for real this time. Composing himself, he straightened his shoulders and continued his little speech, his voice a touch less confident than before. "This is an opportunity to end this strife without further bloodshed. The Lord Shogun believes such a resolution is in all parties'' best interest. I urge you to consider this offer carefully, for it may be the only chance to avert a war that would bring suffering to countless innocents.¡± After a week of fresh air and freedom, the cell felt more oppressive than ever. The breakfast slop, untouched on the tray, reminded me how much I missed Hikari¡¯s cooking. My decoy endured this miserable existence while I roamed freely as a Ninja vigilante. I hoped the twins were pampering her. Taikumi gave me one clear objective¡ªto make the Shogun furious, which I was more than happy to oblige. After every ¡°proposal,¡± I promptly told him to go fuck himself. When he didn¡¯t understand, I took the liberty of explaining it to him in biological terms, complete with animal examples. The herald¡¯s face twisted in exasperation. ¡°Enough of your insolence, girl! You think you can mock the Lord Shogun¡¯s authority with impunity? Do you know the mercy he¡¯s showing you? You¡¯re nothing more than a prisoner¡ªa mere thorn in his side¡ªyet he extends his hand in peace. You¡¯d do well to remember your place! ¡°The Lord Shogun¡¯s patience is not infinite nor mine! If you continue defying him, you¡¯ll see how quickly his mercy can turn to wrath. Do you think you can stand against the full might of the Samurai faction? You¡¯re a fool if you believe that¡ª¡± ¡°Excuse me. I now have something to say.¡± ¡°I see you¡¯ve come to your senses. Go on.¡± ¡°Actually, it¡¯s a question. What¡¯s up with the Shogun¡­ sorry¡­ Lord Shogun¡¯s wife? I heard she¡¯s¡­ you know¡­¡± He slammed his fist on the table, spilling ink everywhere. ¡°You think you can outlast me with such nonsense, girl?¡± ¡°Okay, how¡¯s this? Imagine you¡¯re a donkey, and you took your raging¡ª¡± ¡°Shut up!¡± he overturned the table. The cell door creaked open, and the herald¡¯s demeanor instantly shifted. Stepping back with an expression somewhere between contempt and defeat, he bowed. ¡°You have a visitor,¡± he said. Jon Deerfoot entered the cell. Oh good, someone else that can go fuck himself. ¡°Ember, it¡¯s been a while.¡± My heart slammed into the pit of my stomach as another figure stepped through the door. ¡°His Excellency Overlord Edric,¡± Jon introduced him. Name: Overlord Edric [Arch Dealer] Tier: VII [Obdisian] Rank ??? Faction: Emperor [Overlord] Leader ¡°Leave us,¡± Edric commanded. Jon followed the herald and guards out of the room.This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings. Overlord Edric stepped back from the bars. He stood taller than I remembered, with the same bald, pockmarked head. His face was all sharp angles¡ªhigh cheekbones and a chiseled jawline. But his eyes glowed bright purple, tinged with wisps of smoke. We locked eyes in a stare-down, triggering memories of our first encounter. ¡°What do you want?¡± I flinched first. ¡°Ah, the renowned Raishoto, a technical marvel¡ªor so they say. I am afraid this city is more of a wondrous disappointment, would you not agree?¡± Smirking at my silence, he continued, ¡°Do you know why I am here?¡± ¡°No.¡± ¡°A Jingozi exhibition. My dear friend Tokugawa requested the games, and the Jingozi agreed. Such a pompous fool, even before he became Shogun.¡± It was impossible to guess the Emperor''s age¡ªthe same for the Shogun. The complete aesthetic effects of Zii were still a mystery. If I was becoming more youthful with every level, faction leaders could be level 100 and a century old for all I knew. The Emperor wore the same deep purple robe with gold patterns, but I could never forget the heavy rings on his hands. What struck me was the overpowering scent of cologne. It was a heavy, musky fragrance so intense I nearly coughed. ¡°I avoid such self-indulgent affairs,¡± Edric continued. ¡°But imagine my surprise when I heard a redheaded defector had escaped my capture, only to end up embroiled in a plot to overthrow the Shogun.¡± My teeth clenched. ¡°Oh, do not look so dour, your secret is safe¡­ for now. The enemy of my enemy is my friend. Ever hear that expression?¡± He leaned forward, almost pressing his face through the bars. ¡°But my real motivation is to apologize¡ªto you.¡± I looked up, my face crumpled in confusion. ¡°If I had known, I would have let you go myself,¡± he gave a slight regal bow, then turned his back. ¡°Therefore, I hope you forgive this grievance and terrible misunderstanding.¡± ¡°Um, apology accepted?¡± I injected as much sarcasm as possible. The Emperor swiveled and held his stare again. A different kind of smile crept over his face. ¡°Good. Suppose we are now friends?¡± I almost spat in his face. ¡°Guards! I am absconding with your prisoner for the afternoon,¡± Edric barked. ¡°And tell that Shogun curmudgeon I will not take no for an answer.¡± He wrinkled his nose, noticing the tray of food in the corner. ¡°And fetch something proper to eat for this poor girl!¡± * * * I sat in the plush, cushioned seat of an armored carriage. Overlord Edric, across from me as we rode through the city. Outside, three dozen guards marched in formation. The carriage¡¯s interior was lavish, with rich fabrics and detailed woodwork. On the small table between us was a spread of delicacies¡ªmeat pies, pastries, cheeses, and slices of bread. ¡°Not hungry?¡± Edric asked. ¡°It¡¯s a taste of the North, far removed from the simplicity of whatever they call food here.¡± I glanced at the tray but kept my hands folded in my lap. ¡°I¡¯m good, thanks.¡± ¡°You misunderstand, Ember. It wasn¡¯t a question. It would be a shame for such fine food to go to waste.¡± he picked up a small meat pie. I tensed as Edric''s words sank in. It wasn''t a polite offer but a command. My eyes darted from his face to the meat pie he held, my stomach churning with unease. The smell of meat filled my nostrils as he pressed the pastry to my lips with an expectant gaze. I parted my lips and took a small, reluctant bite. The flavors exploded on my tongue¡ªsavory, warm, and undeniably delicious¡ªbut I could barely appreciate them. I chewed slowly, hyper-aware of Edric''s satisfied grin as he watched me eat. The act felt intimate and invasive, like a bizarre power play. ¡°Here¡¯s what you must know, my dear Ember. A fundamental difference exists between the Samurai and the Emperor faction. The Samurai adhere to a barbaric honor system rooted in feudal times. They cling to antiquated traditions, enforcing their will through brute strength and fear.¡± He wasn¡¯t wrong. ¡°In contrast, the Emperor faction seeks to build a civilization based on trade and commerce,¡± he continued. ¡°We believe in the power of diplomacy and economic vitality to bring true prosperity.¡± His eyes narrowed as he popped a cheese cube into his mouth. ¡°But make no mistake, Ember. There is no room for the Shogunate anymore. Their ways are dying, and their presence hinders the progress we seek. The sooner the Samurai fall, the sooner true peace can come to these lands.¡± Despite the polished rhetoric, I was certain Overlord Edric¡¯s ambitions were driven by more than a desire for a better world. In other words, he was full of shit, and we both knew it. * * * The carriage stopped, and Edric signaled for me to follow him. As we stepped out, I was met with cool, damp air from an underground passage. Half his entourage escorted us through a series of tunnels, the sound of distant cheering growing louder with each step. Before long, we emerged into a massive underground arena. Peasants lined the entrance, their clothes tattered and faces gaunt, begging for food or any act of charity. With a subtle signal from Edric, Jon handed out coins with a practiced smile. We pressed on, delving deeper into the heart of the arena. Entering the main hall, the cacophony of voices swelled with each step. My eyes widened, taking in the vast space before me. Three oversized tables dominated the center, arranged in a perfect triangle that reminded me of the high-stakes poker tournaments on TV. But this was different, more primal. At each table, six players sat engrossed in the cards-only version of Jingozi. Every faction was represented: Ninja, Golem, Samurai, Monk, Amazon, and Emperor. The Amazon grabbed my attention first. Her dark, fierce beauty was captivating, living up to the faction¡¯s reputation. The crowd swarmed around the action like hungry wolves, their voices a constant hum of bets and speculation. I watched as weathered hands exchanged coins and crumpled notes. Wisps of pungent smoke curled from long, ornate pipes clutched in jittery fingers. The mingled scents of tobacco, sweat, and desperation clung to everything, a heady perfume that made my head spin. I could feel the energy of the place, electric yet dangerous. The Ninja player at the closest table gave me a knowing glance before averting his eyes. A humongous flat crystal hovered above each table like a jumbotron, showcasing the action and making it easy for the spectators to keep track of the game. Three commentators¡ªa human, an elf, and a metal Demi-Golem¡ªwere projected onto smaller crystals. And although I understood every word, I assumed each spoke a different language, translated in real time for the diverse audience. The human commentator¡¯s voice was deep and booming, the elf¡¯s melodic and precise, and the Golem''s voice vibrated with a metallic twang. ¡°What you see is no ordinary game of cards,¡± Edric said. ¡°Some say this is where the true political might of the people is won or lost. The Jingozi dismiss it as beneath them, but they turn a blind eye at their peril. Here, alliances are forged, and rivalries are deepened.¡± The Amazon player made a move, her cards flashing with power, winning the hand. The crowd erupted in cheers and gasps as she raked in the pile of Zii in the pot. The Emperor player, a young man in a purple tunic, caught Edric glaring his way. He shrunk in his chair, sweat glistening on his clammy face. ¡°This is more than a game, Ember. It¡¯s a reflection of our world.¡± For the first time, I could relate. This was a world I understood more than anything. Edric leaned in so close my skin crawled. ¡°Now, let me demonstrate true power.¡± Chapter 23: MISSIONS Chapter 23: MISSIONS
We descended a narrow staircase into a smaller arena beneath the main hall. The atmosphere was different¡ªsolemn yet pulsing with intensity. At the center of the arena stood a sumo ring, its pristine, flat white surface gleaming under the lights. Three Jingozi occupied elevated seats on one side of the arena, their hoods obscuring their masked faces. The Shogun sat with his royal guard on the opposite side. Six combatants from each faction stepped into the ring and bowed to the Jingozi. The Samurai bowed another time to the Shogun, who responded with a curt nod. The fighters loaded their Jingozi cards and assumed stances distinct to their class. Immediately, all but the Monk collapsed onto the mat, writhing in pain. ¡°Matches are over in an instant,¡± Edric said. ¡°Time outside the Jingozi arena stands still, though the battle may have lasted days. Although damage in the arena is not real, the psychic trauma might last a lifetime.¡± Cragmarr didn''t mention anything about psychic trauma. I said nothing, observing the fallen players, their faces contorted in agony. The Monk reached over and offered a hand to anybody who would take it. The clay Demi-Golem accepted, its massive hand clasping the Monk¡¯s. The others scoffed while dragging themselves out of the ring. The crowd was subdued compared to the one above. Here, spectators quietly observed the competition. One of the Jingozi tossed a black pouch onto the mat, which spilled open to reveal black Jingozi tokens. The Monk gathered his prize and faced the solemn crowd. He performed the traditional Bao Quan Li, forming a fist with his right hand and covering it with his left palm. Fellow Monks joined him, embracing each other in silence. The Demi-Golem approached the group, offering his respect and camaraderie. That¡¯s what Cragmarr would do, too. As a new group entered the ring and bowed, I blinked into the Jingozi arena. I wonder if this will work. When I opened my eyes amidst a furious battle, the arena''s usual unblemished surface was now a blood-soaked battleground. To my left, the Amazon warrior moved with frenetic grace, her twin blades flashing as she sliced through flesh and bone, blood spraying in her wake. Her movements were fluid and almost dance-like. She decapitated a Ninja with a blinding swift strike, the head rolling to my feet. Directly before me, a metal Demi-Golem towered twenty feet over the battlefield. Its massive fists slammed into the ground, causing shockwaves that sent opponents sprawling. The impact shattered bones and tore bodies, splattering the area with gore. The Samurai executed a series of precise strikes. His katana cut deep, severing limbs. Behind him, two female Samurai launched a volley of arrows at other faction members fighting across the arena. Ninjas darted in and out of the melee, throwing shurikens and launching surprise attacks from every angle to disorient and confuse opponents. Their movements were almost invisible, a blur of speed and agility, blending into their surroundings. They slit throats and stabbed hearts, moving to the next kill before the bodies even dropped to the ground. A lone elven Monk commanded the ghostly snakes, their translucent forms slithering through the air around her. They hissed and snapped, lashing out at enemies while coiling as a shield around her. When one spectral serpent fell, two more took its place. The Emperor stood at the center, surrounded by a squad of knights. He wielded a wand emanating dark energy, sending shadow bolts in every direction. Bodies convulsed before crumpling to the ground, where swords skewered them. The round ended. The Monk extended his hand to draw all the green Zii coins strewn across the arena into his palm, and the fighting stopped. Bodies shimmered and vanished, including any living minions. Even the Golem reverted to his original size. With the battlefield reset, the six players repositioned themselves to draw another hand of cards. The Amazon stood ready in the starting position for the next round. I blinked back, and the Monk was declared the winner. The whole experience was so jarring it knocked the wind out of me. Edric¡¯s eyes were on me in an instant. I struggled to steady my breathing, forcing a weak smile. ¡°I... I don¡¯t feel well,¡± I said. ¡°It must be the excitement and the food.¡± The Overlord¡¯s gaze lingered, his expression neutral. ¡°Very well. I will return you to the Shogun,¡± he said. ¡°But first, I would dearly regret it if I did not indulge in some amusement of my own.¡± * * * Edric strode onto the stage, forcing the previous players to scramble out of his way. The Shogun¡¯s gaze landed on him and then on me, his face twisted in anger. Edric savored the reaction with a grin. ¡°Next match,¡± Edric commanded. ¡°I shall now represent the Emperor faction.¡± The Jingozi acknowledged him with a slight nod, and a drum beat welcomed the players from the remaining factions into the ring. Each bowed to the Shogun. Edric didn¡¯t but simply kept looking back at him with a smirk. Each player ranged from tier 3 to 4 with various rankings, but Edric, at tier 7, didn¡¯t even display a rank to me. There''s no way this was a fair match. I shuddered imagining what was about to unfold in the arena, but also felt oddly curious. But I decided against taking a peek. Everyone took their battle stance except Edric, who spread his arms and tilted his head upward. All the players collapsed in agony while he remained unmoved. The Monk and Samurai suffered the worst, convulsing and vomiting blood before falling unconscious. Splashes of crimson stained the once-pristine, white ring. Faction members tried to rush in to help, but Edric raised his hand, halting them. He materialized four purple, glowing Zii coins and placed them on the eyes of the lifeless Monk and Samurai. After a deep breath, Edric snapped his fingers, and the Zii melted into the eyes of his victims, reviving them. The Monk and Samurai coughed as they came back to life. A murmur rippled through the crowd, a mix of fear, confusion, and outrage. Satisfied, Edric lowered his hand, allowing others to enter the ring and tend to the injured. The Shogun¡¯s face twisted with fury as he stormed out of the arena with his guards. * * * As we returned to the prison, Edric remained pensive, idly twirling a long iron wand in his hand. The wand had an oversized amethyst on one end with a spiked tip on the other. He leaned forward, waving the point inches from my face.Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel. ¡°Rest well, Ember. Maybe I¡¯ll see you at your execution?¡± Day [32/40] Time Remaining Until Execution: [20 Days] The tension in the war room was palpable as I stood with Taikumi, Sora, and the twins. My hands trembled as I recounted the previous day''s events. ¡°You should¡¯ve seen it,¡± I said. ¡°He¡¯s a monster.¡± ¡°Of course. It was an unfair match,¡± Sora scoffed, leaning back in her chair with arms crossed. ¡°That¡¯s what the Emperor faction does. They use these displays as acts of intimidation, nothing more.¡± ¡°Sora is right,¡± Taikumi agreed. ¡°But Edric¡¯s presence is a surprise. He¡¯s not just any Emperor. He''s the faction leader, and his influence is second only to his cunning. We must not underestimate him.¡± I slammed my fist on the table, startling the twins. ¡°How can the Jingozi allow this to happen? Aren¡¯t they supposed to be impartial?¡± Taikumi sighed, glancing at Sora before speaking. ¡°The Emperor faction has always been the closest to contesting the Jingozi¡¯s power. This odd relationship grants them a certain degree of deference. It¡¯s a delicate balance, and Edric knows exactly how to exploit it.¡± Hikari and Kaito exchanged worried glances. ¡°What does this mean for our plan, Taikumi?¡± Hikari asked. ¡°It means we must be careful. Edric¡¯s presence complicates things, but we can¡¯t afford to back down. The plan is too important, and it¡¯s been effective thus far.¡± ¡°I can¡¯t just sit here and do nothing,¡± I said. ¡°What are you going to do?¡± Kaito asked. ¡°Get stronger,¡± I said, turning towards the door. I stormed out of the room, leaving the others in silence. * * * I tore through my Ninja missions, each representing a stepping stone toward more power. Every waking moment was consumed by the drive to gain more strength. Between missions and hurried meals, I trained. My ranks and power cards became an obsession, a singular focus drowning out everything else. I pushed myself harder. Feelings and emotions went out the door, replaced by cold efficiency and stone-like focus. People murmured around me that I had changed, more menacing and unnerving. Even Kitty kept her distance. I didn¡¯t care. The concern in their eyes, the whispers behind my back¡ªnothing mattered. What did matter was reaching the next level. * * * I crept into the concealed prison facility, my boots silent against the cold concrete floor as I surveyed the grim scene where innocent townsfolk were trapped as unwilling workers. Their exhausted forms shuffled between workstations, with heads bowed under the watchful eyes of armed guards. Instead of taking down the sentries methodically, I charged straight through, my fingers dancing across my deck as I unleashed rapid-fire projectiles with deadly precision. The playing cards whistled through the air, each finding its mark and incapacitating the warriors before they could raise the alarm. The captives gazed at me in bewilderment, their faces showing relief and terror as they processed what had just happened. Some even reached out toward me with trembling hands. I didn''t wait around for their gratitude or questions. MISSION COMPLETE: THE LABOUR CAMP Infiltrate the hidden labor camp and free the slaves. QUEST UPDATE: NINJA GUILD Complete 10 Ninja Guild Missions Progress: [5/10] Remaining Time: [19 Days] * * * I stormed the petty trafficking operation without bothering to sneak around, my blood boiling at their pathetic enterprise. Bursting through the main entrance, I unleashed my fury with precise strikes, pummeling the bosses until they yielded beneath my relentless assault. Their pleas for mercy fell on deaf ears¡ªI''d seen too much of their handiwork to show compassion. Once I''d reduced their hideout to ashes, watching the flames dance with grim satisfaction, I dragged the trio of ringleaders to the nearest overpass. I strung up their limp bodies as a warning. MISSION COMPLETE: THE SMUGGLING RING Dismantle the local smuggling ring. QUEST UPDATE: NINJA GUILD Complete 10 Ninja Guild Missions Progress: [6/10] Remaining Time: [18 Days] * * * An important informant had come begging for protection from a notorious killer¡ªa defector from our Ninja faction with blood-stained hands and a reputation without honor. I didn''t hesitate to challenge the murderer directly, my blood burning hot as I clashed with him along the crowded thoroughfare as terrified spectators amassed behind market stalls and in doorways. The bystanders stood frozen like statues, their faces pale as they watched me thrash the hitman to within an inch of his miserable life. My charge cowered nearby, terrified yet ultimately unharmed. The city''s gold-clad Samurai patrol remained at a safe distance, their precious honor apparently not extending to endangering themselves for either us outlaws or the common peasants they claimed to protect. They''d rather polish their swords than dirty them in actual duty. MISSION COMPLETE: PROTECT THE WITNESS Protect the witness from a rival guild of assassins. QUEST UPDATE: NINJA GUILD Complete 10 Ninja Guild Missions Progress: [7/10] Remaining Time: [17 Days] * * * I infiltrated the Samurai master''s compound, methodically cutting down his security forces despite lacking proof of his crimes. My heart pumped harder with each strike, fueled by righteous anger rather than concrete evidence. Under duress, with a trembling hand pressed against his mahogany desk, he penned an admission to save himself from death. The paintings decorating his chambers¡ªdisplayed so proudly on gilded frames¡ªrevealed his sick obsession with young ones, making my stomach turn with each grotesque brushstroke. Without hesitation, I seared his vision with an explosive light card, the flash burning away his ability to ever look upon such depravity again. Using his blood, I painted the Ninja faction symbol across the wall, the dripping heart symbol a testament to justice served. MISSION COMPLETE: EXPOSING A TYRANT Expose a Samurai lord and get a signed confession of his crimes. QUEST UPDATE: NINJA GUILD Complete 10 Ninja Guild Missions Progress: [8/10] Remaining Time: [16 Days] * * * Another corrupt official was evading justice, hiding away in a safe house like a rat in its hole. To expose him, I delivered the evidence of his corruption directly to his peers by finding their wives and giving them a message to take home¡ªdetailed files that proved every dirty deal and backroom transaction. I ensured they understood the gravity of what their husbands were involved in. When they hesitated, I quietly mentioned I''d visit their children next, letting the threat hang in the air. The next day, the official''s allies turned on him and executed him without hesitation. They couldn''t risk their own families discovering the full extent of their corruption. MISSION COMPLETE: END THE CORRUPTION Ensure the corrupt official no longer lives by any means necessary. QUEST UPDATE: NINJA GUILD Complete 10 Ninja Guild Missions Progress: [9/10] Remaining Time: [15 Days] * * * The local resistance group reached out again, desperate for protection during their upcoming meeting. My mission included a warning¡ªthey had a mole in their ranks actively feeding information to our enemies. Rather than expose this immediately, I played it strategically. At the pre-meeting briefing, I made a calculated announcement that I knew exactly who the traitor was. I promised to expose all traitors at the gathering and ensure swift retribution against their entire network¡ªfamily, friends, and even their secret lovers. I observed their faces as I spoke, noting every micro-expression. The meeting proceeded without disruption, and every member was present and accounted for¡ªexcept for one conspicuous absence. Later that evening, we found him in his home, having chosen the way of seppuku to atone for his betrayal and spare his family from my promised vengeance. MISSION COMPLETE: DEFEND THE RESISTANCE Expose the mole and protect the resistance during their critical meeting. UPDATE: YOU HAVE COMPLETED A QUEST [NINJA GUILD] Complete 10 Ninja Guild Missions Progress: [10/10] Bonus Experience Available Remaining Time: [14 Days] LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: I [Iron] Rank 1 * * * Day [39/40] Time Remaining Until Execution: [13 Days] That night, I lay in a hot bath, scrubbing the blood and grime from my skin. I discovered a bone splinter lodged between my knuckles. Steam rose around me, blending with the whirlwind of thoughts racing through my mind. And I was torn. On one hand, I felt a sense of satisfaction, knowing I¡¯d made an impact¡ªeven if it was through fear and violence. On the other hand, I barely recognized myself. As I soaked, lost in thought, Sora appeared in the doorway. She stood silently, as she often did, watching me. As usual, our eyes met, and I expected her to walk away without a word. Instead, she gave a slight nod of approval¡ªat least, I thought she did. ¡°Get out,¡± she said. ¡°You¡¯re due for interrogation.¡± The bath abruptly felt ice cold. Chapter 24: TILT Chapter 24: TILT
When Hikari and Kaito arrived to escort me back to the prison, their nervous energy was palpable. They exchanged reluctant glances as we descended the underground shaft. ¡°What is it?¡± I demanded. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Hikari bit her lip, and Kaito shifted uncomfortably. ¡°Ember, your body double... she was tortured by the guards and thrown into a pit for five days. She just got out, so we¡¯re swapping you back early.¡± ¡°Goddammit, you two. Why didn¡¯t anyone tell me?¡± ¡°We couldn¡¯t,¡± Kaito said. ¡°You vanished on missions¡ªeven Kitty went looking for you.¡± Fuck. I¡¯d been so consumed I¡¯d lost track of Kitty and ignored the people risking their lives for me. I clenched my jaw so hard I thought my teeth would crack. ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± I said. We trudged back to the prison in heavy silence, the muffled thunder outside echoing the rage pounding in my mind. My thoughts raced with guilt and anger, each step feeling heavier than the last. Under the trap door, a limp body dropped through the opening. Without hesitation, I stepped forward to catch her, the acrid smell of sweat and urine hitting me first. Her skin was cold and slick with grime against mine, and she felt more like a bag of bones than a person. I cradled her gently, shocked at how light she was¡ªa reminder of her ordeal on my behalf. The weight of her sacrifice pressed down on me, far heavier than her frail form in my arms. ¡°I¡¯m so¡­ so sorry,¡± I whispered. ¡°This is all my fault.¡± She didn¡¯t respond. * * * QUEST COMPLETE: THE TRIALS Survive 40 days of PVE with no assistance from your tutorial guide. Prove yourself worthy as a Jingozi dealer. Earn Jingozi tokens as currency to complete your quests. [40/40] Complete LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: II [Bronze] Rank 10 FEAT ACHIEVED: NEW TIER You have reached Tier II [Bronze]. A deck upgrade is available. Maximum Zii multiplier increased to 2. Full Zii stat buff now increased to +200% [Tier II] Time Remaining Until Execution: [12 Days] In poker, playing on tilt is like fighting a battle you¡¯ve already lost but refusing to accept it. It¡¯s when your emotions take over, leading you to make reckless decisions. You start chasing losses, convinced the next hand will turn everything around, but it rarely does. Instead, you dig yourself deeper, sinking further into the hole. It¡¯s the number one reason poker players lose money¡ªthey can¡¯t separate their emotions from the game. I¡¯d been on tilt for the past week. I thought I was in control, making all the right moves. But the harsh truth is I lost my grip, blinded by ego and anger. What made it worse was I¡¯d been here many times before. After turning pro, I busted out of every poker tournament because I couldn¡¯t keep my emotions in check. The critics knew it, other players knew it, and deep down, so did I. But that didn¡¯t stop me from trying again, over and over, desperate to prove them all wrong. I found myself on the floor of the Jingozi arena, knees pulled to my chest, exhausted and overwhelmed. ¡°How about some truth?¡± the voice asked. ¡°Not a great time.¡± ¡°You know they love you, right?¡± ¡°Who?¡± ¡°Everybody you¡¯ve been fighting for.¡± ¡°I¡¯m so not in the mood for this,¡± I muttered. ¡°Remember back in the orphanage? You tried hard to be chosen, to impress potential parents with all your talent and effort.¡± ¡°Of course. And look where it got me?¡± ¡°That¡¯s exactly right. And look where it¡¯s getting you now.¡± I wiped my tears. ¡°You¡¯re always trying to earn it,¡± he continued. ¡°Don¡¯t get me wrong. There¡¯s a part of you that makes that quality special. But eventually, you¡¯ll have to accept that they will love you, even if you fail.¡± ¡°Wait a second,¡± I sniffed. He was right. My entire journey up to this point had been like one endless orphanage of life¡ªalways drifting from one group to the next, constantly seeking approval by improving myself in every way I could. But in the end, the people closest to me didn¡¯t care about the bracelets, the books, or the social media following. Still, I pushed them away. And now, thinking of Hikari, Kaito, Taikumi, Cragmarr, and even Sora, it took being kidnapped into another dimension to find what I¡¯d been missing all along¡ªa family¡ªthe most unexpected kind at that.This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there. ¡°Now, Ember, enough chat for now. Your gift evolution awaits.¡± ¡°My what?¡± ¡°Remember, your gift? Think of it like the gift that keeps on giving.¡± ¡°My deck upgrade??¡± ¡°That¡¯s still going to occur by the Jingozi. But your gift evolution is reserved for you and me. Please stand up and look down.¡± Below me, I saw the reflection of my cell¡ªtwo guards and myself curled up on the bed. A shimmering circle formed around my body in the center, followed by two more circles, each encircling the guards. ¡°Do you see how your circle overlaps theirs?¡± he asked. ¡°Yup.¡± ¡°Good. Your circles of dimensional time are now linked because of your shared space in this prison. You can now transport yourself to a physical location within your mutual dimensions.¡± ¡°Like teleporting? Anywhere?¡± ¡°There are limitations. You both must be able to see the destination. For example, you can¡¯t teleport behind someone or through solid objects. You¡¯ll figure it out once you try it.¡± ¡°How is that possible?¡± ¡°Jingozi technology. The one that brought you here.¡± ¡°That makes sense,¡± I said. ¡°But how did you get it from them and give it to me?¡± ¡°Oh, Ember. Where do you think they got it from?¡± ¡°Wait a second. You never told me any of this.¡± ¡°I¡¯m telling you right now,¡± he said. ¡°How about you try it first, and we can discuss it more later?¡± ¡°Alright, let¡¯s see¡­¡± I blinked back into the prison, this time right between the guards. When they realized I was missing, they stepped forward in a panic. I tapped them both on the back. ¡°Hey, fellas!¡± They spun around, and I blinked back into my cell. I stood up, scratching my head, as they checked behind them again. ¡°What¡¯s up? You two look confused.¡± The guards exchanged flustered glances before turning back to taser me unconscious. Time Remaining Until Execution: [11 Days] ¡°Em, wake up.¡± Name: Cragmarr [Covenant Dealer] Tier: III [Steel] Rank 9 Faction: Golem [Demi] ¡°Cragmarr? If this is some dream, I¡¯m gonna Ninja punch you in the face.¡± ¡°I assure you that I am here.¡± I sprang up, tackling him¡ªas expected, it was like hugging a pile of rocks. ¡°You tiered up,¡± I said. ¡°Where the hell have you been?¡± ¡°I was forbidden to see you until you finished your trials. And yes, my new tier was a reward for your success.¡± ¡°That rocks¡ªpun intended.¡± We sat on the floor and exchanged a laugh. ¡°But how are you here?¡± I asked. ¡°Where are the guards?¡± ¡°The Jingozi chose me as your ward.¡± ¡°Like a bodyguard?¡± ¡°In a sense.¡± ¡°Do you know what¡¯s going on?¡± I asked. ¡°I don¡¯t even know where to start. I screwed things up, like, really, really bad.¡± ¡°I know everything, including your defense meta. Your faction was disappointed with your choice.¡± ¡°Whatever. What about my gift? You know about that, too?¡± ¡°Say no more,¡± he whispered, leaning in. ¡°None of us know. Keep it hidden as long as you can. I am here because, at every new tier, the Jingozi offers an upgrade similar to your meta buff. It happens again at level 20.¡± Cragmarr stood up, his steady gaze becoming more intense. ¡°Have you continued to receive those power cards?¡± his voice dropped to a whisper. Still groggy, I managed to pull myself to my feet. ¡°Yup, like you told me. Want to see them? "No. Continue to keep them a secret until you have no other choice. Have you been testing them?" ¡°Not really. I was¡­ um¡­ preoccupied. Did I mention I screwed up?¡± ¡°I understand. We do not have much time. You have another choice to make, quickly.¡± Cragmarr opened a pouch, and a Jingozi deck box floated out. Hovering in front of me, I clicked it open in my mind. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A JINGOZI DECK UPGRADE [NINJA] [DEFENSE META] This card will add a passive bonus to your entire deck. Option 1: Auto Dodge Your top five cards give you a chance to dodge all attacks automatically. Dodge percent is based on attack over defense score. The defense score must be equal to or greater than the attack. The card is discarded after one activation. Option 2: Iron Skin Piercing damage cannot harm you. Does not protect you from bludgeoning damage, magical attacks, or Zii effects. Option 3: Sleep Bomb Enemies within your smoke bomb areas must make a resistance check against your card or fall into a deep sleep until awoken by damage. The defense score must be equal to or greater than the attack. ¡°I wish I could take them all,¡± I said. ¡°How many options are there in total?¡± ¡°Hundreds, if not more. The Jingozi introduce new deck buffs every cycle. The choices adapt to your meta.¡± ¡°Can I sleep on it?¡± ¡°I am afraid not.¡± ¡°Well then. Option 1 it is.¡± DO YOU SELECT [OPTION 1: AUTO DODGE]? Your top five cards give you a chance to dodge all attacks automatically. Dodge percent is based on attack over defense score. The defense score must be equal to or greater than the attack. The card is discarded after one activation. This choice is permanent. [Yes/No] Yeah, let¡¯s do it. YOU HAVE RECEIVED THE AUTO DODGE BUFF [NINJA] [DEFENSE META] Your top five cards give you a chance to dodge all attacks automatically. Dodge percent is based on attack over defense score. The defense score must be equal to or greater than the attack. The card is discarded after one activation. STATUS: Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: II [Bronze] Rank 10 Faction: Ninja [Field] Zii: 100/100 Cards: 36/36 Deck Upgrades: Meta: Defense Attack: - Defense: +2 Buff: - Special: ¡°Okay, done,¡± I said. ¡°What¡¯s next?¡± ¡°Now you wait. It is eleven days until your execution. The Shogun has decided to make it a public event.¡± ¡°Can I at least leave to train with Hikari and Kaito?¡± ¡°Unfortunately, no. Your decoy is recovering well, but Taikumi deemed it too risky. However, the Shogun has agreed to let you spend your final ten days with the Monks at Thunder Temple. Prisoners sentenced to death are often sent there to receive their last rites.¡± Part of me felt relieved that my body double was off the hook. But the whole last rites stuff sounded ominous. ¡°Why would the Shogun allow me out of here?¡± I asked. ¡°An agreement with Overlord Edric.¡± ¡°Seriously? And what does that sociopath want?¡± ¡°I do not know, Em. The Monks have sworn an oath to the northern and southern factions to remain impartial in political affairs.¡± ¡°He wants to see this played out.¡± ¡°Indeed. So do the Jingozi, it seems.¡± ¡°What¡¯s the plan for the execution?¡± I asked. ¡°You know, to keep my head on my shoulders and other details like that?¡± ¡°I have not been informed of a plan, but I have been assured the Ninja faction will intervene. However, you will be in isolation for the final ten days. Even I am prohibited from making contact. We have no choice but to trust them.¡± ¡°I¡¯m not liking this one bit,¡± I paced around the cell. ¡°I understand. I promise I will do all I can.¡± ¡°Well, you did get me this far,¡± I punched him in the shoulder. ¡°And I¡¯ve got a few tricks of my own now. But can I ask you for a favor?¡± ¡°Yes, anything.¡± ¡°Can you go get Kitty and set her loose? In case I don¡¯t make it, she deserves to be free. I would appreciate it, Crag.¡± ¡°I will, Em.¡± Chapter 25: PARADOX Chapter 25: PARADOX
Time Remaining Until Execution: [10 Days] I was unceremoniously transported to Thunder Temple, ironically, a Ninja faction hideout. But despite calling it home for weeks, I¡¯d never seen the upper levels. We stayed underground, using the network of tunnels to move around Raishoto. Shackled, my Samurai escorts surrounded me with Cragmarr in the back. We traveled in silence with only the distant rumble of thunder. As we crested the final hill, Thunder Temple came into view. It was enormous, an ancient structure carved into the mountainside overlooking Raishoto. Stone walls were etched with mystic symbols while lightning rods crowned the pagodas, still crackling with residual energy. The entire building pulsed with life. We passed through a towering gate flanked by two colossal statues of Samurai warriors. Beyond them, a sprawling complex of courtyards, gardens, and towering halls, all interconnected by a maze of covered walkways and bridges. A group of Monks received me at the entrance. My Samurai escorts bowed respectfully before retreating. An elderly man in simple green robes greeted me. ¡°Welcome to Thunder Temple. I am Master Fengbao, the head Monk of this monastery. You are now in our care.¡± Master Fengbao was short and stocky. His face bore the lines of age and wisdom, framed by a long, flowing white beard down to his waist. His green eyes contrasted vividly against his weathered skin, giving him a look of quiet intensity. Cragmarr nodded as he gestured for me to follow him. ¡°I will see you in ten days, Ember,¡± Cragmarr called. LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: II [Bronze] Rank 9 Woah. I tripped over my feet, startled by the notification. ¡°A nexus,¡± I said under my breath. ¡°You know of such things?¡± Fengbao asked, having heard me. I thought silence would be my best answer. ¡°I see. You are a Jingozi apprentice,¡± he said. ¡°Guilty as charged.¡± ¡°We have not had an apprentice within these walls since I can remember.¡± ¡°Why not?¡± I almost snickered. ¡°A Jingozi would never find themselves trapped in a place like this. We are not permitted to leave, which makes things rather¡­ restrictive.¡± ¡°Wait, you¡¯re stuck here?¡± ¡°The brothers and sisters within these walls have chosen a life of isolated discipline and contemplation. We all took a vow of Zii.¡± ¡°Well, I think that sucks.¡± ¡°Not at all,¡± he said with a serene smile. ¡°What about the rest of your faction?¡± ¡°We are temple Monks. The rest of our faction resides on the border between the north and south. You can find those who follow the Jingozi way there. Although they are all most likely participating in the current exhibition.¡± ¡°Yeah, I saw that. Your team was cleaning house until¨C¡± ¡°The Emperor,¡± Fengbao said with a knowing nod. ¡°Although we are relegated to live within these walls, it does not mean we are unaware of what happens outside them.¡± He leaned in with a wink. ¡°Including deep below. Taikumi sends his warmest greetings and says to stay out of trouble.¡± I smiled with newfound respect. There was clearly more to the Monk faction than I gave them credit for. As we entered and walked through the temple grounds, I marveled at the diversity of the Monks who tended to the monastery. There were humans, elves, and even a few demi-golems, all dressed in the same simple green robes, their heads shaved in the traditional Monk style. Despite their different races and backgrounds, their movements were all the same¡ªwith purpose. We passed through a courtyard where Monks practiced martial arts. Most sparred with bamboo staffs or swords, but some used more exotic weapons like the three-section staff. The air was filled with the sounds of clashing wood, the swish of robes, and the occasional grunt of exertion. ¡°This is our training ground,¡± Fengbao explained. ¡°Here, we hone our bodies and minds to achieve the true peace that comes from balance.¡± We continued through more interconnected courtyards, each more impressive than the last. In one, a group of Monks tended to a garden filled with rare and exotic plants that smelled like the essential oils my massage therapist loved¡ªthe sound of trickling water from a nearby fountain added to the peaceful vibe. Monks gathered around a massive gong in another courtyard, striking it in rhythm. Fengbao led me to the heart of the temple, an enormous hall with towering columns and a high ceiling painted with murals. The walls were lined with statues of past Monks, their stone eyes gazing down at us. A gigantic statue of a Samurai warrior stood at the center of the hall, holding a lightning bolt. ¡°Lord Raiden Takamori, I presume?¡± I said. ¡°You know the story?¡± ¡°Let¡¯s just say Taikumi loves it¡ªenough to tell me six times.¡± ¡°Ah yes, it¡¯s an entertaining legend. Master Raiden was not a Samurai but a Monk trying to unite the factions. But the Samurai have a way of changing stories for political purposes.¡± As I stepped forward, the nexus overwhelmed me with its sheer presence¡ªeven more potent than the one in Yukiko¡¯s village. ¡°This is¡­ crazy,¡± I whispered. ¡°You are more Zii-sensitive than any guest in recent memory, Ember. I now know what they all see in you. Come, let me show you to your quarters.¡±If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. We arrived at a modest room tucked away in a quiet corner of the temple. Fengbao pushed open the wooden door, revealing a small space with a standard cot, a low table, and other necessities. Although sparsely furnished, everything within the room was meticulously crafted, from the smooth wooden floor to the woven mat covering it. ¡°This will be yours for the duration of your stay. It is simple, but it has everything you will need.¡± I stepped inside, taking in the room¡¯s austerity. The cot was neatly made, with a folded blanket and a small pillow. A bowl of fresh water and a simple meal of steamed rice and vegetables sat on the table. ¡°For the next ten days, be free to do as you wish. You may explore the temple, learn our martial arts, or meditate in the gardens. The choice is yours. This time allows you to reflect, grow, and understand dimensional balance.¡± ¡°What about my last rites? Crag¡­ my ward mentioned them.¡± ¡°I have been given no such instructions. However, there are rules you must follow. Thunder Temple is neutral ground. No faction business can be conducted here, and no one can enter or leave the monastery during your stay. You will not contact your ward, Cragmarr, or other allies. This is a place of peace, and we do not allow the conflicts of the outside world to taint it. Even the Jingozi cannot interfere.¡± Fengbao paused at the door. ¡°Use this time wisely, Ember. The path to true strength is not always through battle but through knowing oneself. I trust the nexus will show you.¡± I sat down on the cot, feeling its firmness beneath me. There was no luxury here, no distractions¡ªjust me, the walls, and¡­ My Jingozi abilities weren¡¯t working. I tried to load a hand, but nothing worked. Accessing my inventory or notifications didn¡¯t work either, and I couldn¡¯t produce a Zii coin. I blinked into the Jingozi arena. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± I said. ¡°Why does my ability still work here when everything else is broken?¡± ¡°The Monks may be able to suppress Jingozi technology, but not your gift.¡± ¡°I thought you said they got the technology from you. Isn¡¯t this all the same thing?¡± ¡°Kind of, sort of, but not really. Yes, I gave the Jingozi their technology, but they only understand half of it. The Monks as well.¡± ¡°Man, someday we¡¯re gonna talk about all this.¡± ¡°Looking forward to it. In the meantime, why don¡¯t you take advantage of this opportunity, like a retreat? It¡¯s not like you have anywhere else to be.¡± ¡°You know what? That actually sounds like a good idea.¡± * * * Life at Thunder Temple took on an unexpected rhythm for the next ten days. The Monks rose early for a morning meditation. I joined them, initially feeling out of place, but gradually, I sank into the silence. Despite my status as an outsider and Jingozi apprentice condemned to death, they treated me as one of their own. There were no whispers behind my back, no sidelong glances of suspicion. They could care less. I was simply another soul seeking balance. After meditation, we trained. The Monks practiced their martial arts with a discipline bordering on reverence. Their bodies bent and twisted with techniques that defied the limitations of flesh and bone. They taught me as much as I could absorb, taking my skills to a whole new level, which still meant they whooped my ass every time. The Monks had a variation of Zii-Kata, known as Zii-Chi. It was at the heart of their practice, a fusion of martial arts and meditation designed to draw power from the spirits. While the basics mirrored Zii-Kata, it had a deeper, almost spiritual resonance. The Monks taught me how to channel energy from the nexus, aligning my movements with its flow. With each session, the connection grew¡ªthe nexus becoming more than just a source of pure Zii, but something alive, something I could truly feel. One demonstration of Zii-Chi left me speechless. Monks stayed in stance as thick trunks of bamboo and heavy stones shattered against their bodies. Even sharp objects¡ªblades designed to slice and pierce¡ªwere driven against their skin without leaving a mark. The secret, they explained, lay in maintaining a deep, meditative state, almost like a trance. Zii-Chi made their bodies impenetrable, a seamless blend of spirit, mind, and body. Afternoons were spent in quiet contemplation or working alongside each other. I helped in the gardens, tending to the exotic plants thriving in the temple¡¯s rich soil. I swept the endless corridors, learning the names of the Monks who passed by with nods of acknowledgment. I even assisted in the kitchens, preparing simple, nourishing, shared meals in silence. The Monks¡¯ lifestyle was one of humility and service, and each task was performed with mindfulness¡ªboth foreign and refreshing. In the evenings, the temple came alive with chants, the deep, resonant voices of the Monks filling the air as they gathered in the Hall of Thunder. As the days passed, I lost track of time, the outside world slipping away as I became more immersed in temple life. There were no judgments about my past, questions about my future, or allegiances. I embraced being ¡°Sister Ember.¡± I found myself looking forward to the small rituals of daily life. There were quiet moments in the garden where I basked in the scent of blooming flowers. Other times, I engaged in the camaraderie of the Monks, who, despite their stoic exteriors, were well-versed in small talk. The sisters were exceptionally supportive, and there were no roles based on gender. I appreciated that. On the ninth day, as the sun began to set and the sky turned a deep shade of purple, I stood at the edge of the training ground, watching the Monks practice their Zii-Chi. I¡¯d almost forgotten the purpose of my stay. The thought of leaving the temple tomorrow filled me with some sadness. But as the head Monk, Master Fengbao, approached, I knew my time here was ending. ¡°Master, may I ask a question?¡± I asked. ¡°Of course, Ember. I always love a good question.¡± ¡°Why did you come here?¡± ¡°Ah, yes,¡± he nodded with his eyes closed. ¡°It was a lifetime ago. Has anybody here mentioned the Monk champion Zhong during your stay with us?¡± ¡°His name¡¯s come up. That¡¯s all.¡± ¡°Zhong was once a Samurai, the captain of the Shogun¡¯s guard,¡± he began. ¡°A half-elf renowned for his brilliance as a military tactician. But he grew disillusioned with the Shogunate and sought peace among the Monks. That peace was shattered when his monastery was caught in the crossfire between the Emperor and Amazon¡¯s bitter war against the Samurai and Golems. Refusing to take sides, his entire family was tortured and killed.¡± A tapestry of visions flooded my mind. It had been happening all week, and I assumed they were because of the nexus. A naked Monk was bowing before three Jingozi. ¡°Seeking vengeance, Zhong pledged his soul to the Jingozi for power,¡± Fengbao continued. ¡°He rapidly achieved the highest ranks and became a Jingozi master. But the price was his sanity and a mission to assassinate a key leader from each faction, including the Shogun and Zhong''s new family, the Monks.¡± ¡°Wow. Did he succeed?¡± ¡°He did indeed, and his actions birthed a dark legacy amongst our faction. Each leader died in such sinister ways the Jingozi became even more feared. And now, many Monks who follow the Jingozi way have chosen him as their champion.¡± I came face to face with a vision of Zhong. He wasn''t just a Monk¡ªhe was a force of nature. His skin was taut, veins pulsing with dark energy crackling beneath the surface like lightning ready to strike. His bald head caught the light, highlighting the deep lines etched into his face, and those eyes¡ªthose glowing green eyes¡ªburned with malice. The air around him practically sizzled, faint lightning sparks dancing across his skin, illuminating the veins snaking across his head. His expression was pure, unbridled rage. ¡°Where is he now?¡± I asked. ¡°They say he exiled himself into the mountains as penance for his transgressions. Many Monks pilgrimage to his temple where he teaches them in visions and dreams.¡± ¡°That still doesn¡¯t explain why you¡¯re here,¡± I changed the subject. ¡°I, too, lost my family to this futile war,¡± he said, putting his hands in mine to steady me. ¡°With nothing else to live for, I joined the temple Monks here to teach our faction a better way¡ªthe way of balance and peace.¡± A man in search of purpose after losing his family. I could certainly understand that. ¡°Thank you for sharing your story, Master Fengbao.¡± ¡°You have learned much while here, Ember, but I sense your inner conflict. If you continue to pursue the Jingozi way, the true path is not found in isolation. It is found in the balance between peace and conflict, between the self and the world. Seek the divine path of the paradox within.¡± * * * There was no fanfare when I left the temple that night. I met my Samurai escort in the courtyard, turning Fengbao¡¯s final words over in my mind. As the guards arrived, my notifications pinged. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A POWER CARD Warp II Even without access to Jingozi technology in the temple, my game progression continued. But the last notification¡­ NEW MISSION: THE EXECUTION Thwart the Shogun¡¯s plans for your execution. Bonus Objective: Thwart the Emperor¡¯s plans. Time Remaining Until Execution: [1 Day] Chapter 26: EXECUTED Chapter 26: EXECUTED
The whole thing stunk like a double-cross. Today, the Shogun would make an example of me¡ªan execution designed not just to end my life but to send a message to anyone who dared challenge his rule. And God knows what the Emperor was planning. There was also the distinct possibility I no longer represented any strategic value to the Ninja. I hadn¡¯t heard a word about the plan¡ªnot that they could have contacted me over the past ten days, even if they wanted to. But if there was, in fact, a plan to save me and strike the Shogun, they sure were taking their sweet-ass time. I wasn¡¯t about to leave my fate to anybody, even the Ninja faction. If push came to shove, I¡¯d take matters into my own hands. ¡°The Lord Shogun commands your presence,¡± a guard announced as he and three others entered the room. They secured iron shackles around my wrists and ankles. Earlier, attendants had offered me a white ceremonial kimono and a bath, a final gesture before they chopped off my head, but I refused. As we made our way to the ceremonial execution grounds, burning incense wafted through the air, accompanied by distant chanting¡ªa reminder of my time at Thunder Temple. As anticipated, the Shogun chose a public execution. The courtyard was the size of a soccer field, with a platform in the center. It was a simple yet imposing structure of dark wood polished to a dull sheen. A white mat lay in the center, marking where I would kneel. Nearby, my executioner, a giant Samurai, stood with a sheathed katana. As two guards led me up the platform steps, Cragmarr stood in the front row with Kitty perched on his shoulder. His expression was grim, but he gave me a nod¡ªa silent assurance everything would be okay. Distressed, Kitty settled down after I mentally urged her to behave. The crowd fell into a hush as I was forced to my knees on the mat. Conversations died out, and all eyes turned toward me, filled with curiosity, fear, and morbid fascination. To some, I was a criminal and an enemy, deserving the fate awaiting me. To others, I was a political pawn, about to suffer injustice at the hands of an oppressive regime. My favorite herald stepped forward to address the crowd. Reading from a scroll, his nasal voice struggled to carry over the masses as he began to speak. ¡°By the decree of the Lord Shogun, Ember, an enemy of the state, you are hereby sentenced to death for your crimes. Let this execution serve as a reminder to all who dare challenge our Lord Shogun¡¯s authority. May your fate be a lesson to those who harbor thoughts of rebellion.¡± Across the courtyard, the Shogun sat on a raised platform, surrounded by his consorts and guards. Above him, archers, with bows drawn, lined the rooftops. At least another hundred fully armored Samurai stood on ramparts and the ground. That¡¯s a lot of security. I scanned the crowd for familiar faces and found none at first. But before I blinked into the Jingozi arena to look more, I spotted a small elven child with blonde curls a few rows deep. When we made eye contact, she raised a baseball-sized green stone¡ªa Nexus stone. My pulse quickened. So, there is a plan. ¡°Does the condemned have any last words or prayers?¡± Oh, you bet your fast ass I do, you piece of shit. A voice rang out from the crowd. ¡°I wish to address our Lord Shogun and the court!¡± Name: Ryuunosuke [Divine Dealer] Tier: III [Steel] Rank 10 Faction: Samurai [Warrior] I barely recognized him, and it looked like he''d lost some of his tier ranks. Ryuunosuke was dressed in commoner attire, with a cast encasing his right arm and a splint supporting his left leg. Bloody bandages wrapped his head and covered his left eye. Now tangled and matted, his once-perfect hair draped a marred face with bruises and scratches. The wounded Samurai hobbled onto the stage. ¡°My Lord, you have refused an audience with me since my return,¡± he addressed the crowd more than the Shogun. ¡°I have no choice but to seek a public appeal.¡± The herald, fidgeting like he¡¯d just been given a wedgie, glanced toward the Shogun. With a nod from the faction leader, the herald stepped back. Ryuunosuke stepped between me and the executioner. ¡°This woman is no criminal. She is a Jingozi dealer!¡± Murmurs rippled through the crowd. ¡°But she is also a defector. After brokering an arrangement with the Samurai, she planned to escape the North. That¡¯s when the Golem ambushed our convoy, and everything was lost. Knowing who she was, I entrusted her with delivering the scroll to you, my Lord. I gave her my token, believing it was my honor to sacrifice my life for our cause... your cause, my Lord.¡± The crowd erupted into a chorus of protests, their agitation growing. ¡°Silence!¡± the Shogun¡¯s voice thundered. He waited until you could hear a pin drop. ¡°Ryuunosuke, you have served our faction honorably and survived in the face of certain death. For that, you have my undying gratitude. But I cannot trust you. How can I when it is abundantly clear you have been so tempted and corrupted by this¡­ whore, sent from the North? Your wounds and suffering have blinded you from the truth. Take him away to rest and proceed with the execution.¡± Ryuunosuke fell to his knees before me, bowing his head to his hands. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Ember.¡± ¡°Ryuunosuke, where¡¯s Hiro? Tell me he made it.¡± He looked up in despair as two guards dragged him off. ¡°He did¡­ as I promised,¡± he cried. ¡°But the Shogun took him¡­ executed¡­ forgive me.¡± * * * Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere. They did it. They broke me. I knelt on the swirling black floor of the Jingozi arena. My face was swollen from hours of sobbing, and time had lost all meaning in the dark, infinite space where grief consumed me. I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about Hiro¡ªhis innocence, and now, his death. ¡°I¡¯m here, Ember,¡± the voice whispered. ¡°Hiro¡­ Why?¡± My heart was torn apart as I crawled forward, my gaze fixed on the reflection of Tokugawa Masamune, the Shogun. I hated him. Zooming into his face, I fixated on the one I despised the most since my arrival. Something was off. His mouth was slack, and his eyes were rolled into the back of his head like he was possessed. I scanned those beside him¡ªthey were oblivious. Wait, what is that? I almost missed the three Jingozi from the exhibition, obscured by shadows behind the Shogun. The Shogun and his entourage would¡¯ve been completely unaware of their presence. But why were they there? They definitely weren¡¯t watching my execution. The Jingozi defector. If the Jingozi knew the Samurai faction was harboring a traitor, they¡¯d be more than motivated to intervene somehow. That must¡¯ve been why they sanctioned the exhibition in the first place. But what were they waiting for? Or was this the opportunity the Ninja faction was planning? I furiously cycled my deck until I found the hand I wanted. Hand: [0/0] [Death Strike +5] [3/5] [Evolve] [4/4] I cast [Evolve] on my [0/0], using 50 Zii to boost it into a [50/0]. Then I cast [Death Strike], adding another 5 Zii to buff it to a [55/0]. My new maximum multiplier of 2 Zii surged it to a [110/0]. If that wasn''t enough to kill him in a surprise attack, I don¡¯t know what would. If I got the shot off, my Zii would be dangerously low¡ªa risk I was willing to take. It was just a matter of studying the layout and making the right plan. * * * Using the Jingozi¡¯s line of sight, I blinked back to the courtyard directly behind the Shogun. He slumped forward in his stool. His left eye exploded into crimson mist as something burrowed into the back of his head with a sickening squelch. His body convulsed, then flopped onto the floor. A consort, now spattered in blood, turned and saw the seizing Shogun on the ground. Her wide eyes locked onto me next. Her scream tore through the air. Name: Overlord Edric [Arch Dealer] Tier: VII [Obsidian] Rank ??? Faction: Emperor [Overlord] I didn¡¯t need the status notification to know in my gut the Emperor was there¡ªsomewhere. ¡°Edric,¡± I hissed. AUTO DODGE: SUCCESSFUL Card Discarded [4/4] 100% A guard lunged forward, attempting to spear me with his polearm. It took me a split second to realize that since I was holding a [4/4] card, my passive deck upgrade gave me a 100% chance to auto-dodge the attack. But then the card was discarded. I ducked and spun as the blade thrust over my head. Completing the evasive maneuver, guards dove onto the Shogun¡¯s body. ¡°Protect the Shogun!¡± someone shouted. I blinked out. After catching my breath in the Jingozi arena, I saw only four places to blink back to next. The first was back to the platform with the executioner and three guards. The second was into the panicked crowd, risking innocent lives. The third was a rampart, where more guards surrounded me. Finally, the roof exposed me to archers while abandoning Cragmarr and Kitty below. On top of it all, I was still shackled. I took my chances and blinked back to the platform. Upon seeing me, the executioner and two guards drew their swords. Five Jingozi cards whistled through the air. The first two sliced through the chains between my wrists and ankles. The third and fourth struck the two guards, exploding on impact to send them tumbling off the back of the platform. The final card found the gap between the executioner¡¯s helmet and chest plate before evaporating into a red puff of smoke. He fell to his knees, clutching his neck to stop the blood streaming through his fingers. Nice shots, Sora. The crowd had erupted into chaos. People stampeded in all directions, some cowering and falling to the ground, only to be trampled, while others stood frozen in bewilderment. AUTO DODGE: SUCCESSFUL Card Discarded [3/5] 60% I tilted my head just in time to dodge an arrow as another volley rained onto the platform. AUTO DODGE: FAIL Card Discarded [3/4] 75% I braced myself for the hit, but Cragmarr¡¯s forearm deflected the shot at the last moment. He wrapped his arms around me, turning to form a body shield as arrows shattered against his rocky back. Kitty was nestled between us, curled into a silver armored ball. ¡°Nice save, Crag.¡± Cragmarr grunted an acknowledgment as the cavalry arrived. Ninjas appeared first on the wall behind the archers, and in a flurry, the first Samurai fell, their throats slit. Ninjas in red moved like wraiths, shuriken flashing as they cut down the other guards stationed on the walls. Screams filled the air as the crowd scattered to avoid the onslaught. The Samurai on the ground rallied, forming a defensive perimeter around the platform. But the Ninjas were relentless, their attacks coming from every direction. Multiple smoke bombs exploded amid the Samurai ranks, and more guards fell, their armor clattering to the ground. Pockets of skirmishes broke out around me, the Ninjas everywhere, their movements too fast to follow. Two masked figures intercepted a Samurai leaping onto the platform towards us. They moved as one, their coordination flawless, each strike timed to complement the other. I recognized their styles¡ªHikari and Kaito. Hikari¡¯s katana deflected a Samurai¡¯s blow while Kaito darted in low, cutting the Samurai¡¯s legs out from under him. ¡°Ember, we¡¯re getting you out of here!¡± Hikari shouted. ¡°Follow us!¡± Kaito ordered. ¡°And stay close!¡± ¡°Go,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°I will cover you.¡± Kitty leaped onto my shoulders, wrapping me with her tail in time to deflect an arrow. Cragmarr loaded a Jingozi card and transformed into a hulking spiked giant. He grabbed a guard and swung the body like a mace, clearing a path through the courtyard. The Ninja twins and I moved as a unit, Hikari and Kaito flanking me on either side as we pushed through the melee. The courtyard was a whirlwind of violence¡ªSamurai clashing with Ninjas, steel ringing against steel, bodies falling to the ground. A Ninja vaulted over a group of Samurai, crippling them with quick strikes before vanishing into a crowd of fleeing bystanders. A Samurai fell to his knees, blood pouring from a broken blade lodged in his temple. Another fought desperately to fend off an attacker before Sora struck with a fire shot, engulfing him in flames. But the Shogun¡¯s forces were relentless. As we neared the courtyard''s boundary, more Samurai poured in from the palace, their ranks mounting as they pressed the attack. The Ninjas fought back with everything, but the sheer force took its toll. One by one, the Ninjas succumbed to the superior numbers. As I swung the chains of my shackles like whips, I saw the exhaustion in Hikari¡¯s eyes and the strain in Kaito¡¯s movements. I used a combination of melee-range blinking to launch surprise attacks. A regular Samurai was no match for us alone, but with reinforcements joining the fray, the odds were stacked against us. I also started to wane. Jumping in and out of the Jingozi arena made my head spin. While I was conserving Zii, my deck ran low on cards. More guards cut off our escape. I fought the instinct to blink away and abandon my friends. ¡°We¡¯re getting overwhelmed!¡± Kaito blocked a sword strike. ¡°Find another way out!¡± ¡°I¡¯m trying!¡± Hikari¡¯s breath came in ragged gasps. Cragmarr cannonballed into the crowd before us, crashing down with a thunderous impact, sending Samurai flying in all directions. He slammed his hands together, creating a sonic boom, knocking down guards like bowling pins. With every blade glancing off his body, he grew bigger. ¡°This way!¡± Hikari motioned toward a narrow corridor. Intercepting us, a giant cloud of smoke swirled and solidified into a ten-foot Samurai. Its enchanted armor blazed with a fiery glow and wielded a polearm crackling with lightning. It was Ryuunosuke''s champion. ¡°You betrayed us!¡± Ryuunosuke''s voice called from behind the monster Samurai. ¡°Ryuunosuke,¡± I shouted. ¡°Listen to me. You don''t want to do this!¡± My mind was too foggy to catch Hikari sprinting along the wall with her blade aimed at Ryuunosuke¡¯s head. The Samurai champion stepped in the way with blinding speed, impaling her against the wall with its polearm. The tip of her katana fell short of finding its mark¡ªless than an inch away. ¡°Hikari!¡± Kaito and I screamed. I unleashed the combination attack intended for the Shogun: [0/0] [Death Strike +5] [Evolve]. With no idea how much Zii I spent, the three cards transformed into a beam of fire, incinerating the champion. The shockwave knocked us all back. I landed with a crack. Something snapped inside my back, and a high-pitched ring replaced my hearing. Four Ninjas streaked toward Ryuunosuke through the haze in a red blur. They drove their cards into his stomach and jerked them upward, disemboweling him in a single motion. The four merged into one¡ªSora. Without missing a beat, she threw four smoke bombs, shrouding the area in a thick, blinding fog. Cragmarr hoisted me over one shoulder as I reached out for Hikari¡¯s lifeless body in my fading moments. Hikari¡­ Chapter 27: HIKARI Chapter 27: HIKARI
I woke up on a makeshift stretcher, my body strapped down with torn strips of cloth. Even the slightest movement sent a searing pain through my back. Fire licked my spine, spreading out to my arms and legs, making breathing impossible without excruciating pain. The rough texture of the ground beneath me was a distant sensation. The forest felt quiet, too quiet. The usual rustle of leaves and the distant calls of animals were muted as if the world was holding its breath. I stared at the darkening sky, trying to focus on anything other than the throbbing throughout my body. But the physical pain was nothing compared to the emptiness inside me. First Hiro, and now Hikari. I felt like a dagger was twisting in my chest. My heart ached in a way I didn¡¯t think was possible, a deep, suffocating that left me hollow. I couldn¡¯t even cry. I wanted to, needed to, but the tears wouldn¡¯t come. All I could do was lie here, strapped down and broken once more. Kaito sat a few feet away, his face pale and drawn, eyes fixed on the ground. He hadn¡¯t spoken since we made it out of Raishoto. He clenched his fists so tight his knuckles were white, his body tense with a grief he couldn¡¯t express. I wanted to reach out to him, to say something, anything, but the pain held me back. I didn¡¯t have the words. Cragmarr stood under a tree, still as a statue. Sora crouched beside me, her usual sharpness dulled by exhaustion and sorrow. Even Kitty, always preferring my shoulders, lay curled at my feet. We sat in silence for what felt like hours, with only the sounds of our shallow breathing and the occasional gust of wind. The sun had long since disappeared, leaving us in the darkness. The weight of the night pressed down on us, a chill seeping into my bones I barely noticed. My mind kept drifting back to Hikari before we lost her. Taikumi joined our silent vigil. He didn¡¯t say a word and stood there with his head bowed. * * * Taikumi returned to the city in the morning while we gathered in a small clearing. Hikari¡¯s body lay before us, wrapped in a simple cloth, her peaceful face visible through the veil. The grave had been dug by hand, the soil turned over and piled beside the shallow pit where she would rest. I wanted to help, to be a part of this final act for Hikari, but I was still strapped to the damn cot. We all depleted our Zii, escaping the execution. Cragmarr and Sora would heal our injuries once they replenished their resources. An injury as severe as mine would require extra time to recover. All I could do was watch. Kaito knelt beside the grave, his eyes red-rimmed with restrained anger. His hands trembled as he laid the first handful of earth over his sister¡¯s body. Sora stood beside him. She stared at Hikari¡¯s body with her lips pressed into a thin line. Cragmarr was next, hunched over, his hands covered in dirt from digging the grave. Kitty nuzzled my arm, providing the little comfort she could. I mentally reassured her I¡¯d be okay. Kaito spoke first, his voice rough and raw. ¡°She was¡­ she was the best of us. Always looking out for everyone, always¡­ always so damn brave,¡± he choked on the words, hands clenching. ¡°I should have done more. I should have¡­ I could have saved her.¡± ¡°No, Kaito,¡± Sora said. ¡°You did everything you could.¡± ¡°It wasn¡¯t enough. I wasn¡¯t enough. She¡¯s gone because I failed her,¡± Kaito shook his head, his anger cutting loose. ¡°She wouldn¡¯t want you to blame yourself. Hikari¡­ She knew the risks. We all did. She made her choice to protect us.¡± ¡°To protect me,¡± I said. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry. None of you would be in this situation if I didn¡¯t¨C¡± ¡°Do not dishonor us,¡± Sora said. ¡°This is not about you.¡± She was right. Kaito didn¡¯t respond, his jaw tight as he stared at the grave. The silence stretched. ¡°I¡¯ll miss her smile,¡± I said, ¡°and how she could always find something to laugh about. She was¡­ she was a sister to me.¡± Cragmarr nodded, his eyes fixed on the ground. I wanted to say more, to share my other memories, but the pain of losing her kept me silent. My heart ached with the need to express how much Hikari meant to me and how much I would miss her, but the words stuck in my throat. Kaito broke the silence again, his voice barely above a whisper.You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story. ¡°She was my twin. We shared everything¡­ even our thoughts sometimes. Now it¡¯s like¡­ like a part of me is missing. I don¡¯t know how to go on without her.¡± The silence returned, heavier than before. I wanted to say something to him, to comfort him, but I knew nothing I could say would relieve his heart. We continued to grieve in our ways. Kaito stood, his movements stiff and mechanical, as he laid the last handful of earth over Hikari¡¯s body. The finality of it¡­ I had to close my eyes. The others also stood, and I watched as they finished the burial. I felt utterly useless, trapped in my own broken body, unable to even help lay my friend to rest. * * * Sora and Kaito left to forage and hunt, leaving me and Cragmarr at the camp. I checked the notification I¡¯d been ignoring. MISSION COMPLETE: THE EXECUTION Thwart the Shogun¡¯s plans for your execution. Bonus Objective [FAILED]: Thwart the Emperor¡¯s plans. Yeah, no shit, I failed. I muted my notifications again. Cragmarr stood a short distance away, moving through the slow, deliberate motions of Zii-Kata. The faint glow of Zii energy gathered around him, shimmering the air. I watched him, now lying on a cot. With every breath, my whole body burned, the agony relentless, but I forced myself to concentrate on Cragmarr. He stopped, his eyes closing as he centered himself. When he opened them again, they were filled with refreshed focus. ¡°Ember,¡± he knelt beside me. ¡°This will hurt, but it is the only way I can help you.¡± ¡°I trust you, Crag. Do your thing,¡± I swallowed hard. He rolled me onto my stomach and placed his hands on my back¡ªthe tingling sensation of Zii energy flowing into me. At first, it was just warmth, but then the pain hit¡ªa sharp, burning sensation making me gasp and bite down on my sleeve. Kitty thumped her tail at Cragmarr. ¡°I know, little one,¡± he said. Cragmarr snapped his fingers, creating a Zii coin, and let it melt into my back. He did it again, pressing the coin into my upper spine. The next one was a little harder and a little lower. The process continued, getting more intense with every coin. My muscles spasmed, and I clenched my fists, my nails digging into my palms as I tried to endure it. ¡°Just breathe, Ember. In and out, slow and steady.¡± I tried to do as he said, but it was overwhelming, like fire spreading through every nerve. It felt like my spine was being torn apart and then put back together, each vertebra shifting, cracking, and then realigning under Cragmarr¡¯s hands. It was finally over, the fire fading to a dull ache. My breathing was ragged, my body trembling from the effort, but I could feel a difference. The sharp pain in my back had lessened, replaced by a blunt soreness. Cragmarr rolled me onto my back. He looked exhausted. ¡°Try sitting up,¡± he said. I hesitated, then braced myself and pushed up with my arms. My back flared, but I managed to sit up. ¡°It is not perfect,¡± Cragmarr said, ¡°but it should hold for now. You will need more healing when we can spare the Zii, but this should at least give you some mobility.¡± ¡°Thank you, Crag. I¡­ I never thanked you for saving me. For everything you¡¯ve done.¡± He gave me a gentle smile, his large hand resting on my shoulder. ¡°We are in this together, Em. Just try not to break anything else, okay?¡± I choked on my laughter. ¡°I¡¯ll do my best. But no promises.¡± * * * ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± I stood alone beside the freshly turned earth where we had buried Hikari. The sun filtered through the trees, but the warmth did nothing to ease the cold knot in my chest. I held the origami flower Hiro made for me¡ªa fragile symbol of the innocence I failed to protect. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Hiro. I promised to keep you safe, and I couldn¡¯t. I couldn¡¯t save either of you.¡± I dug a small hole beside the grave and buried the flower beside Hikari. ¡°Hiro, meet Hikari. Hikari, meet Hiro. You two would have adored each other. Hikari, watch out, Hiro¡¯s a real charmer. Both of you would have been the best Jingozi apprentices. Keep each other company now that¡­¡± Behind me, Cragmarr stirred but stayed where he was. ¡°I¡¯ll never forget either of you, even when I go home. That¡¯s a promise I know I can keep.¡± I had fashioned a small cross from sticks, tied together with a strip of cloth. I pressed it into the soil, whispering a prayer. * * * We sat in a rough circle around the fire, roasting the fish from my inventory. Sora had come up short on her hunt, but Kaito found various nuts and berries. We were waiting for Taikumi to return. I attempted to break the ice. ¡°Hey, why aren¡¯t there any storms out here?¡± ¡°They are unique to Raishoto,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°The city is designed to attract storms and harness their power. Raishoto relies on lightning energy.¡± ¡°That¡¯s why there are so many blackouts.¡± ¡°Correct.¡± ¡°I used to be terrified of the dark,¡± Sora spoke, surprising us all. ¡°When I was a child, I couldn''t even sleep without a lantern by my bed. My brothers teased me about it all the time.¡± ¡°You? Afraid of the dark?¡± Kaito said. ¡°I don¡¯t believe it.¡± ¡°It was my mother who helped me face my fear. She taught me how to make shadow puppets. She said they wouldn''t be so scary if I could make the shadows my friends.¡± ¡°Now I get it,¡± Kaito popped a fresh berry into his mouth. ¡°You make friends with shadows. That¡¯s why you¡¯re such a sneaky Ninja.¡± We all laughed. ¡°What kind of puppets did you make?¡± Cragmarr asked. ¡°Mostly animals. Birds, wolves, and sometimes dragons. But my favorite was a butterfly. It was simple, and I liked the way its wings fluttered.¡± I couldn¡¯t imagine Sora as a child. The way she tore through the Samurai guards and Ryuunosuke¡­ ¡°Did it work? Did you stop being afraid?¡± ¡°Eventually, once I realized shadows were just what I made of them. I started to see the beauty in the dark, how it could hide and reveal things, depending on how you looked at it.¡± ¡°Where is your mother now?¡± I said, immediately regretting the question. ¡°I don¡¯t know. I became very ill¡ªa sickness that put me into a deep sleep. When I awoke, she and my brothers were gone. That¡¯s when I became a Jingozi dealer.¡± I felt terrible knowing what she was talking about. Cragmarr also nodded. ¡°The Monks have a saying,¡± he said. ¡°It is easy to get lost in darkness, but even easier to be blinded by the light.¡± ¡°Huh? I don¡¯t get it,¡± Kaito said. ¡°Sometimes it¡¯s better to struggle with the unknown than to know all the truth,¡± Sora took a bite of her fish. ¡°We have the same expression where I¡¯m from,¡± I said. ¡°Ignorance is bliss.¡± ¡°Yup, I still don¡¯t get it,¡± Kaito scratched his head. ¡°I¡¯ll stick with the Ninja stuff.¡± We all laughed as I exchanged glances with Sora. It relieved me that the mood had lightened and that Kaito might be feeling better. Taikumi returned, his expression grave as he stepped into the circle of firelight. ¡°The city is in chaos. The Shogun lives.¡± Chapter 28: ROOFTOPS Chapter 28: ROOFTOPS
¡°The Shogun lives but is bewitched,¡± Takumi began. ¡°He clings to life. But his oldest son, Kenshiro, was also assassinated, most likely by a rival family. The only remaining heir, Ryoma, has gone into hiding with his mother.¡± I didn¡¯t know how I felt about the news. There¡¯s no way the Shogun survived that. ¡°Ember, you were the last one seen before the Shogun fell. There¡¯s a manhunt for you and Cragmarr, believing you¡¯re both responsible. No others have been identified.¡± Taikumi stepped toward me and put his hands on my shoulders. ¡°Ember, you achieved the impossible and earned great honor with the Ninja faction. We¡¯ve claimed this victory, thanks to you.¡± ¡°But I didn¡¯t do it. It was Emperor Edric¡ªI saw him kill the Shogun with my own eyes.¡± ¡°Edric the Emperor?¡± Kaito¡¯s face darkened. ¡°How?¡± I recounted the events of the Shogun¡¯s death. Sora¡¯s eyes narrowed in thought. ¡°It must have been magic,¡± she said. ¡°The chaos of the execution would have been the perfect cover to kill the Shogun. The Emperor faction will always strike at any opportunity.¡± ¡°But it wasn¡¯t just him. There were three Jingozi in the shadows, watching everything. Cragmarr, didn¡¯t you say you could be killed by whatever you called it¡ªa Jingozi duel?¡± Cragmarr¡¯s expression turned grim. ¡°Yes, three Jingozi must consent.¡± ¡°That does explain it,¡± Taikumi agreed. ¡°It was retaliation for the Samurai harboring a Jingozi defector.¡± ¡°I saw the defector with Yukiko.¡± ¡°That¡¯s impossible,¡± Sora said. ¡°I know what I saw, Sora.¡± ¡°The Jingozi have been rumored to be at war within,¡± Taikumi said. ¡°It appears they¡¯re not different from the other factions. The Jingozi are a force beyond our control¡ªtheir decrees are absolute. If they indeed commissioned the Shogun¡¯s death, nothing can be done to stop it.¡± ¡°Except I¡¯m taking the fall¡­¡± Taikumi continued to share the aftermath. The prevailing hope was that the Shogun would survive the attempt on his life. If he lived to reveal the truth, the Samurai faction would retaliate with war against the Emperor. Or, he would die, and all the proverbial chips would be up for grabs. In the event of his death, the Samurai would unify under the Shogun¡¯s heir, or rival families vying for power would fracture the faction further. Either way, I was currently public enemy number one. ¡°We need to get you far from here, Ember,¡± Taikumi said, gesturing to Cragmarr. ¡°Neither of you are safe in Samurai territory. They will stop at nothing to find you, and the Emperor faction may seize any opportunity to strike the South in its weakened state.¡± ¡°Where can she go?¡± Kaito asked. ¡°Where will Ember be safe?¡± ¡°North,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°The Monk faction. ¡°They are neutral in this war, and we may request sanctuary.¡± He looked at Sora. ¡°Can you heal Ember to make the journey while I prepare?¡± Sora bowed. ¡°And where are you going?¡± I asked Cragmarr. ¡°I must secure passage for us.¡± ¡°How do we travel through Samurai territory without being seen?¡± ¡°The nexus,¡± Taikumi said. ¡°Yes,¡± Cragmarr nodded. ¡°At Thunder Temple? I don¡¯t get it.¡± ¡°You will see. We have very little time to get you to safety. Kaito will come with me. He will return here and bring you to Thunder Temple if it is safe. ¡°Kaito¡­¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me, Ember. I¡¯ll be back soon.¡± * * * After Cragmarr, Taikumi, and Kaito left camp, Sora prepared to heal the remaining damage to my back. Cragmarr did what he could, but I still felt a lingering pain, making every movement a challenge. Kitty was gone exploring the woods, probably hunting for a snack. ¡°Ready?¡± Sora asked. ¡°I guess?¡± ¡°Remove your clothes.¡± ¡°Wait, what?¡± I stammered. ¡°Cragmarr didn¡¯t ask me to do that.¡± ¡°The healing is more effective when the Zii directly contacts your body without any barriers.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t have a choice, do I?¡± I felt my face flush. ¡°No.¡± ¡°Can you turn around?¡± ¡°No.¡± After a deep breath, I disrobed and lay face down on the cot by the fire. Sora began to move through the motions of Zii-Kata. I felt the air hum with Zii energy, building into a tangible vibration. Unlike Cragmarr¡¯s raw power, Sora¡¯s was more refined and controlled. She placed her hands on my back, her touch cool, and I braced myself. But this time, it was different. The pain was muted as if Sora controlled the intensity to make it more bearable. ¡°Breathe with me, Ember. In and out, nice and slow.¡± I followed her lead, matching her breaths as she continued to work. The warmth spread through my back, reaching the places yet to mend. There were sharp spasms as the energy found the damaged areas, but Sora adjusted, easing the intensity before it became too much.Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. She snapped her fingers, conjuring a Zii coin. With a gentle press, she melted the coin into the base of my spine, the energy seeping and weaving itself through the damage. The pain flared, but Sora¡¯s voice kept me grounded. ¡°Just a little more. You are doing well.¡± She repeated the process, pressing another coin higher up my spine. The pain was less intense each time, and the relief more thorough. As she worked, I felt my spine realign, popping like a chiropractic adjustment. My breaths came easier. Sora placed the last Zii coin at the nape of my neck, letting the energy flow through me one final time. The warmth radiated down my spine, soothing any remnants of pain. Sora leaned back, her face damp with sweat. ¡°There,¡± she said. ¡°It is done.¡± I twisted slightly, testing my range of motion. It wasn¡¯t just my back¡ªmy entire body felt fully restored¡ªwith only the soreness of an intense workout. ¡°Thank you, Sora,¡± I said, abruptly aware I was still naked. I wrapped myself in vain with my arms. ¡°Sora? I¡¯m sorry, but can you turn around this time? Please?¡± When I looked up, she was gone. * * * After nightfall, Kaito returned with Kitty in tow. ¡°Look who I found.¡± Kitty jumped into my arms. Her entire body was covered in fine dirt as if she¡¯d fallen into a bag of coffee grinds. ¡°Looks like you¡¯ve been busy, young lady. We¡¯ll clean you up later.¡± ¡°It¡¯s time,¡± Kaito announced. ¡°We need to get you back into Raishoto. Cragmarr is waiting at Thunder Temple.¡± I acknowledged him and glanced around, hoping to see Sora before we left. ¡°Sora?¡± I asked. ¡°There¡¯s no time,¡± he shook his head. ¡°She knows to meet us at the temple.¡± I swallowed my disappointment and draped Kitty onto my shoulders. We followed Kaito as he led us back toward the city. The forest gradually gave way to the outskirts of Raishoto. The plan was to enter through the underground tunnels, a network of hidden passages Kaito knew well. Our path was blocked. Samurai guards stood outside the caged gate of the tunnel, vigilantly scanning the area. There were too many well-positioned guards and no way to slip past them. Kaito cursed under his breath. ¡°They weren¡¯t here when I left,¡± he whispered. ¡°There¡¯s no way through without drawing attention. And most likely, they¡¯ve covered all the others.¡± ¡°What do we do?¡± ¡°I¡¯ll distract them. Once you get inside, don¡¯t take the underground tunnels. Find a different way to the temple.¡± ¡°No, Kaito.¡± ¡°We don¡¯t have time to argue. Trust me, Ember.¡± Kaito darted out from our cover and launched himself at the nearest guard with a drop kick. The Samurai were taken by surprise but, within seconds, gave chase as he fled along the base of the wall. I slipped through the tunnel and took the first opening into an alleyway. Blinking into the Jingozi arena, I searched the reflections for another way to the temple. The streets were littered with Samurai. My eyes landed on the rooftops above. I blinked back to the alley. ¡°Hang on, girl.¡± I sprinted toward the nearest building, jumping to grab a ledge. My muscles still ached, but I pulled myself up and began to climb. The rooftops were an uneven mix of tiles and wood, but I found my stride, blinking in and out using Jingozi cards to propel my jumps and keep my momentum. A light rain drizzled the area, making my path slippery. But I let my instincts take over. Leaping from one rooftop to the next. I¡¯d never felt this kind of freedom before, the wind rushing past me as I soared through the air. Kitty wasn¡¯t on my shoulders anymore. Instead, she was racing beside me on another set of rooftops, effortlessly keeping pace. Show off. I pushed myself harder, my body reacting to each rooftop¡ªeach jump and landing more exhilarating than the last. The city blurred beneath me, and I let myself revel in the moment. We dropped from the final rooftop, landing near the temple gates, where Cragmarr waited. Kitty bounced to greet him. ¡°You made it,¡± a voice startled me from behind. ¡°How?¡± I said as Kaito emerged from the shadows. ¡°Samurai are fat and slow. Looks like you took the rooftops. Impressive.¡± He extended his fist, and I couldn¡¯t help but smile as I returned the bump¡ªsomething I¡¯d taught him and Hikari. Overwhelmed with emotion, I pulled him into a hug. Stepping onto the temple grounds, Master Fengbao greeted us with a prayerful bow. ¡°Welcome. The nexus foretold your return.¡± * * * A group of Monks prayed in Thunder Hall, standing in a circle with their heads bowed and robes swaying in the ambient energy of the nexus. ¡°Here, we can open a portal between nexus points,¡± Master Fengbao explained. ¡°It will take you both to a temple within Monk faction territory, where you will be granted sanctuary.¡± ¡°Are you coming, Kaito?¡± I asked. ¡°My duty to the faction is here, Ember.¡± ¡°Kaito¡­ I don¡¯t want to leave you behind.¡± His eyes glistened as he stepped closer, resting his hand on my shoulder. ¡°This is the best way to keep you safe,¡± he said. ¡°I¡¯ll be fine. I know we¡¯ll see each other again.¡± ¡°Ember,¡± Master Fengbao said, ¡°Your silverglint cannot make the journey.¡± ¡°What? No.¡± ¡°Kitty would not survive,¡± Cragmarr confirmed. ¡°I¡¯ll take care of her until you return,¡± Kaito said. I felt devastated as Kitty whimpered. I lifted her to look into her eyes. ¡°You be a good girl, Kitty. Take care of Kaito until I see you again soon, okay?¡± She licked my nose, and I set her down. She ran behind Kaito, wrapping her tail around his leg, and continued to whimper. ¡°Thank you, Kaito. For everything. I don¡¯t know how to say goodbye to both of you.¡± It was his turn to pull me into a tight embrace. ¡°It¡¯s not goodbye, Ember. Just a pause. Stay safe, and trust Cragmarr to keep you out of trouble.¡± ¡°I will,¡± tears spilled down my cheeks. ¡°But I¡¯ll miss you.¡± Kaito was different now, older and more mature than when we first met. Master Fengbao signaled the Monks, who chanted in unison, their voices rising and falling in a rhythmic cadence. The air thickened with energy as glowing symbols appeared on the floor, forming a swirling portal in the center of the Monks¡¯ formation. The light intensified, filling the room. ¡°The nexus is ready,¡± Master Fenbao said. ¡°It will take you to the temple monastery up north. You must step in now.¡± I reached for Cragmarr¡¯s hand and glanced back at Kaito and Kitty one last time. ¡°Stay safe,¡± Kaito called out. ¡°Avenge Hikari.¡± You bet your ass, I will. With a final bow to Master Fengbao, Cragmarr and I entered the portal. The energy enveloped us, weightlessness taking hold as everything blurred and twisted. The light grew brighter until there was nothing but the overwhelming sensation of being pulled through time and space. Just as quickly, I found myself standing on solid ground, the air cool and crisp, our new surroundings coming into focus. I checked for Cragmarr, who was already scanning the room. It was a vast temple hall, the air smelling like fresh grass and rain. The walls were carved from dark stone, etched with intricate patterns pulsing faintly with energy. It was similar to Thunder Temple, but the atmosphere here felt more grounded somehow¡­ I couldn¡¯t explain it¡­ more connected. Tall columns lined the hall, reaching the ceiling and disappearing into the shadows above. LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: II [Bronze] Rank 9 FEAT COMPLETE: EXPLORE THE NEXUS Visit 3 nexus locations. Bonus: Additional rewards are granted for every nexus you find from this point. It appeared that Jingozi tech worked at this location. But something felt off¡ªvery off¡ªand the silence was unsettling. No Monks greeted us, and no chants filled the air. The only sound was the soft echo of our footsteps. ¡°This is¡­ strange,¡± my voice broke the stillness. ¡°Where is everyone?¡± Cragmarr frowned beside me, his eyes narrowing. ¡°Indeed. This monastery should be filled with activity. Stay close and be ready.¡± We both loaded our Jingozi cards and pressed on¡ªa sudden shiver coming over me. I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling the nexus wasn¡¯t the only presence here, even though the entire place appeared deserted. ¡°Hello?¡± I called out. ¡°Is anyone here?¡± My voice dissolved in the air, swallowed by the emptiness. We continued down a series of twisting corridors, each as silent as the last. The architecture was familiar yet different¡ªinstead of depicting monastic warriors, symbols of mountains and trees decorated the walls. Around a corner, I caught a glimpse of movement¡ªa figure darting into the next hallway. ¡°Wait!¡± I shouted, breaking into a sprint. Cragmarr followed close behind. We turned another corner and finally caught sight of the figure¡ªa Monk, his robes fluttering as he hurried down the hall. I ran harder, closing the distance between us. ¡°Hey, stop! We just wanna talk!¡± The Monk skidded to a halt, glancing back with wide, panicked eyes. He looked barely more than a novice, his face pale with sweat. He was young, clean-shaven with bright blue eyes. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± I asked as we reached him. ¡°Where is everyone?¡± The Monk kept fidgeting as he shook his head. ¡°I¡ªI can¡¯t stop. The temple¡­ we¡¯re all going to die.¡± ¡°Woah, slow down, friend. What do you mean we¡¯re¡ª¡± I saw the bodies. Chapter 29: LI Chapter 29: LI
The hallway opened into a large room. My breath caught in my throat at the ominous scene before me. I¡¯d seen a similar room at Thunder Temple¡ªa ceremonial burial chamber. It smelled like incense, mingled with something metallic and bitter. Dozens of nooks lined the walls, each holding the shrouded forms of Monks wrapped in blood-stained sheets, their bodies resting in solemn rows. There were too many dead for this to be natural. These Monks hadn¡¯t died under normal circumstances¡ªthey¡¯d been slaughtered. Cragmarr stepped forward and held up a hand. ¡°What happened here?¡± he asked. ¡°The Amazon. They attacked when they heard the Shogun was assassinated. We¡¯re trying to hold them off, but¡­ the temple¡­ it¡¯s almost lost.¡± The Monk was about to collapse. ¡°Ok, let¡¯s take a breath,¡± I said. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± ¡°Li Wei.¡± ¡°Alright, Li. Where are you going?¡± ¡°A hidden passage,¡± he pointed to a wooden door. ¡°We can escape. I¡­ I¡¯ll take you.¡± Cragmarr grasped Li Wei¡¯s shoulders to prop him up straight. ¡°The master of this temple. Where is he?¡± Li Wei hesitated, his fear and despair clear as he said, ¡°Master Xiang¡­ he¡¯s in the inner sanctum, but he¡¯s wounded. I don¡¯t know if he can help you.¡± ¡°Take us to him.¡± Li Wei swallowed hard, his blue eyes darting to the bodies around him. I didn¡¯t blame him for wanting to get the hell out of there, but he straightened and bowed with determination. ¡°This way.¡± * * * We arrived at a large set of double doors, slightly ajar, revealing a lit chamber beyond. Li Wei pushed the doors open. The room was sparsely furnished, with only a few low tables and cushions scattered across the floor. An elf lay in the center of the chamber, his robes stained with blood and face pale and drawn. Several Monks tended to him, their expressions grim. ¡°Master Xiang,¡± Li Wei bowed. ¡°These two came through the nexus portal.¡± Master Xiang looked up to acknowledge us, his olive-skinned form draped in robes clinging to his wiry frame. The typically regal features of an elf were haggard, sharp cheekbones now accentuated by the pallor of his skin. His long, pointed ears twitched slightly with each labored breath, betraying the pain he endured. A gash stretched across his chest, poorly bandaged, revealing the crimson edges of the wound beneath. Silver hair stuck to his sweat-drenched forehead. Despite the severity of the injuries, a glimmer in his eyes remained. He raised a hand, and the Monks stepped back, allowing us to approach. ¡°Welcome, my friends, to Radiant Temple,¡± he said. ¡°Fengbao speaks highly of you, but I fear we cannot offer you proper sanctuary. The Amazons have declared war. They seek control of the nexus, and we have held them off, but our enemies surround us.¡± ¡°We want to help,¡± I stepped forward. ¡°Tell us what we can do.¡± Cragmarr placed a hand on my shoulder, his grip firm but gentle. ¡°Ember, if we stay and fight, and word reaches the Samurai of our location, it could spark something even worse. The Samurai might attack, and the Monks will be caught between two enemies. We cannot be seen here.¡± ¡°So, what are we supposed to do? Just leave them high and dry? No way.¡± ¡°You must go,¡± Master Xiang interjected. ¡°Your ward is correct. While well-intentioned, your presence here brings us more peril. The Amazons want the nexus, and we will sacrifice our lives before allowing it to fall into their hands. Reinforcements are on their way¡ªthey will arrive soon. We will hold them off until then.¡± I took a deep breath, the frustration still simmering. Master Xiang gestured for me to draw closer and studied me. ¡°Fengbao told me of your strength and passion, but now you must trust. Li Wei will guide you to safety. Take him with you and travel north, where he has family. Go now, before it is too late.¡± ¡°Ember,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°There is something you can do.¡± * * * Cragmarr led me to Master Xiang''s side. His instructions were clear and calm as he showed me the basics of healing with Zii-Kata. My hands trembled, but I focused on breathing, letting the rhythm guide me. It was a strange sensation, like pulling warmth from deep within myself. I placed my first Zii coin onto the wound of Master Xiang¡¯s chest and felt my body tingle as it melted into his skin. It was subtle at first, but I could see the edges of the wound drawing closer, the bleeding slowing. Repeating the process, I created another coin, then another. The wounds on Master Xiang¡¯s body closed, and his breathing became less forced. My head throbbed, but I pushed through. The other Monks observed silently, but Li Wei gawked like he was watching a ghost. The lines of pain on Master Xiang¡¯s face softened, and his body relaxed, the worst of his injuries mended. He wasn¡¯t fully healed but was stable enough to recover. I stepped back, my entire body damp with sweat. That was nuts.Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author. * * * After recovering Zii, we said goodbye and departed for the escape tunnel. The stone passage was narrow and lit by the occasional flickering crystal notched into the wall. Further underground, the air grew cooler. Li Wei led, peeking around every twist and turn. Trying to break the tension, I asked, ¡°So, how long have you been with the Monks?¡± Li Wei glanced back at me, an innocent smile on his lips. ¡°About five years now. My family sent me here when I was a teenager. It wasn¡¯t an easy choice, but¡­ they thought it was for the best.¡± He paused, the memories playing out in his mind. ¡°Why did they send you?¡± ¡°My family lives just past the border on the first farm North along the river. It was one of the most productive farms in the area. Or it should have been. The Emperor¡¯s faction pressured us to produce more food, demanding we send them everything we grew. But we barely had enough to feed ourselves. My sister¡­ she was the youngest and didn¡¯t get enough to eat. One winter, she¡­ she couldn¡¯t survive it.¡± ¡°I¡¯m so sorry.¡± ¡°After she died, my parents couldn¡¯t bear to lose another child. They thought sending me to the Monk faction would give me a better life¡ªa chance to survive. And it did, in many ways. But it¡¯s not easy, leaving your family behind.¡± ¡°I know how that feels. Do you ever get to see them?¡± ¡°Every summer,¡± his tone brightened. ¡°I visit them whenever I can. They¡¯re always so excited to hear about my training, and I like to bring them little gifts from the temple.¡± He held up his small pack and shook it. ¡°Except now I¡¯m bringing friends¡ªI get to introduce them to a Jingozi apprentice. They won¡¯t believe it.¡± He chuckled, a boyish grin spreading across his face. ¡°I look forward to meeting them,¡± I said. ¡°I¡¯m sure they¡¯d be proud to see how far you¡¯ve come.¡± ¡°My mother has a bad hip. Maybe you can heal her, too.¡± ¡°It ''d be my pleasure.¡± We continued through the tunnel, the conversation lightening the atmosphere. Li Wei shared stories of his childhood, the mischief he and his sister got into on the farm, and how the Monks introduced him to discipline and balance¡ªlessons he¡¯d come to treasure. Arriving at the exit, a cave opening pointed to the night sky. The sun would rise in a few hours. ¡°We¡¯re far from the temple now, hidden in the cliffs, so watch your step,¡± Li tried to contain his excitement. ¡°Come on, we can reach the farm by morning.¡± The tunnel slanted upward, and we emerged into a canyon filled with pillars of glowing crystals. It was like stepping into another world. The crystals, varying from pale blue to soft green, cast a subtle glow, bathing the canyon in a gentle, muted light. ¡°Woah,¡± I said. ¡°What is this place?¡± ¡°The Monks mine these crystals,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°They are precious resources used to power metal Golems and other machines.¡± ¡°Octranite for Juggers.¡± ¡°Yes. How do you know about this?¡± ¡°Long story, Crag.¡± Li Wei sprinted ahead, shouting, ¡°This way!¡± As his voice echoed through the canyon, I heard a faint, unmistakable twang. AUTO DODGE: SUCCESSFUL Card Discarded [4/5] 80% I ducked in time as an arrow whizzed past my head. Another arrow struck Cragmarr, bouncing and clattering to the ground. Li Wei was an easier target. An arrow hit him in the shoulder, knocking him off his feet mid-run and sending him skidding on the ground. Cragmarr slid in behind me as I ducked behind a boulder. ¡°Li?¡± I shouted. Peeking between two crystals, I saw the Monk on the ground, trying to drag himself to safety, but he was too far in the open. Another arrow pierced him in the opposite shoulder, making him scream. ¡°Those are not designed to kill,¡± Cragmarr whispered. ¡°They are trying to draw us out.¡± ¡°You see him, right?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°Keep him in your sight.¡± I threw a card, charging it to explode into smoke above Li Wei. Blinking to him, I dragged the Monk behind a pillar. A few arrows zipped through the smoke. Blinking into the Jingozi area, I found our attackers. Three Amazon archers, strategically spread out in the cliffs, set up to snipe the cave entrance. Marking their positions, I checked my hand and blinked back. ¡°Hang on, Li. Don¡¯t move.¡± Cragmarr was right¡ªthe shots weren¡¯t lethal, but they had to hurt like hell. Li Wei panted, trying not to scream. But the panic in his eyes was unmistakable. Cragmarr ran to us as arrows continued to ricochet off him. ¡°I have to get home,¡± Li Wei said. ¡°I know, buddy, and we will, I promise.¡± Suddenly, the Monk took off down the canyon. ¡°Dammit Li!¡± I leaned out to launch my first card as a fresh volley of arrows rained down on us. Two archers struggled to get a clear look, their arrows bouncing off the column. AUTO DODGE: FAIL Card Discarded [2/4] 50% I felt a sharp pain in my thigh and toppled over, but not before firing my second and third cards¡ªall max-charged piercing shots. The arrows stopped, followed by the unmistakable thuds of three bodies hitting the rocks. ¡°Li!¡± I rushed to him. The Monk clutched a shaft embedded in his chest, his blue eyes wide and glassy with shock. Two more arrows were lodged in his stomach. He crumpled to the ground, the life draining from him. ¡°Dammit,¡± I brushed my hand over his face to close his eyes. * * * The Amazons who had ambushed us were clad in striking blue outfits, their armor designed with flattering patterns and sapphire stones. They were fit, their bodies hard, and they shared the same sharp features and long hair woven with beads. One of my cards had sliced through the throat of the first Amazon, leaving her armor painted with blood as she fell from her vantage point. The second card struck another square in the chest, the sapphire-studded breastplate offering no protection. Her body was contorted, and a bone jutted from her knee from the fall. The final card only grazed the side of the third Amazon''s skull. But she was impaled on crystal spikes¡ªstill breathing. Her eyes flickered with accusation as she jerked a dagger from its sheath. She drew her last gasps before her breathing stopped. The dagger fell from her grasp and clattered on the rocks. Cragmarr watched the scene from a distance. ¡°Ember?¡± he called. ¡°Are you alright?¡± ¡°Not really, Crag. Not really.¡± After lining up the bodies, including Li Wei¡¯s, Cragmarr asked, ¡°Are you going to loot them?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know, it doesn¡¯t seem right for some reason. But I¡¯m taking this.¡± I held up Li Wei¡¯s pack. ¡°Can we bury them?¡± ¡°I am sorry, Ember. We do not have time. More enemies could arrive soon.¡± I sighed. ¡°Your leg,¡± he said. I looked down to see an arrow embedded in my thigh, my Ninja pants soaked in dark blood under the moonlight. My vision swam, and I leaned on Cragmarr to steady myself. ¡°You require healing,¡± he said. ¡°Let us find safety first.¡± * * * Cragmarr carried me to a secluded cave filled with crystals providing ample light. I was dizzy from blood loss and low Zii. At tier 2, I burned through my Zii pool faster if I infused the maximum Zii multiplier. I¡¯d have to be more careful. ¡°The arrow is barbed,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°We cannot pull it out the way it went in. I have to push it through. Try not to scream. More Amazon might be nearby.¡± ¡°The area¡¯s clear, I checked.¡± ¡°You did?¡± ¡°Can we just get this over with?¡± ¡°Sorry, Em,¡± he passed me a wooden stick. ¡°This will help with the pain.¡± I bit down as he began. The pain was immediate and excruciating as he applied pressure, the arrowhead tearing through the muscle. The stick fell out of my mouth, but I managed to muffle a scream using my sleeve. The arrow emerged from the back of my leg. Cragmarr snapped the fletching off, and with a final pull, it was out. Blood welled from the wound, staining the ground beneath me. I almost passed out. ¡°A little longer, Em,¡± Cragmarr snapped his fingers for a Zii coin. He held it, letting the energy build before pressing it against the entry wound. The torn muscle and skin began to knit together, the wound closing as the coin melted into my flesh. The relief felt almost as intense as the pain. Cragmarr repeated the process on the back of my leg, guiding the Zii-Kata healing process. The pain receded to a dull ache. ¡°It is done,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°How do you feel?¡± ¡°Like brand spanking new.¡± Cragmarr shook his head, unimpressed with my sarcasm. ¡°Hey, can I heal myself?¡± I asked. ¡°Unfortunately, no. It does not work that way.¡± ¡°Then why does your healing work so much better? You use less Zii.¡± ¡°My meta. It buffs my support capabilities.¡± ¡°Ah, that makes a lot of sense.¡± * * * I tried to sleep until morning while Cragmarr stood guard. Flexing my leg to check its range of movement, I performed some quick Zii-Kata. But things weren¡¯t flowing¡ªmy focus was off. But I muddled through the routine enough to top off my cards and Zii. ¡°Are you ready?¡± Cragmarr asked. ¡°We must move.¡± ¡°Yeah, about that, Crag. I¡¯m not going until I take care of something important first.¡± Chapter 30: NEEDLE Chapter 30: NEEDLE
My plan was straightforward, if not batshit crazy¡ªattack the Amazons and buy time for the Monk¡¯s reinforcements to arrive. ¡°If we are seen, we put ourselves and the Monks in grave danger,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°You mean if I¡¯m seen. You¡¯re not going to fight.¡± ¡°I do not understand.¡± ¡°My gift allows me to stay in stealth. I¡¯ll approach it like a standard Ninja mission.¡± ¡°Why take this risk?¡± ¡°Because I¡¯m sick and tired of being sick and tired, Crag¡ªincluding constantly running and hiding. This isn¡¯t a rash decision. I thought it through.¡± ¡°I see,¡± he nodded. ¡°Listen. First off, I absolutely refuse to let Li Wei die in vain. Second, if the Amazon gets a hold of the nexus, what stops them or the Emperor faction from invading Raishoto?¡± ¡°The Monks would never agree to help them. Only they can open the portal.¡± ¡°You sure about that? Why would they attack, then?¡± He nodded. ¡°I can¡¯t afford to take that chance, Crag. It¡¯s not just about the Samurai. The Shogun can go to hell for all I care. That city is home to my faction¡ªKaito, Taikumi, and I can¡¯t believe I¡¯m saying it, but even Sora.¡± Cragmarr nodded. ¡°What? You think I¡¯m crazy, right?¡± ¡°No. How can I help?¡± NEW MISSION: THE AMAZON SIEGE Disrupt and delay the Amazon siege enough for Monk reinforcements to arrive. * * * Cragmarr and I stepped out into the cool morning mist. I had half-expected a Jingozi waiting for me, lurking in the shadows like a stalker. ¡°Kitty was with me the last time I spent a night in a cave,¡± I said. ¡°I wish she was here.¡± ¡°I understand,¡± Cragmarr said. We trekked back to where we left the Amazons and Li Wei. Seeing the Monk¡¯s lifeless body again hit me harder than expected. He¡¯d been so full of life and hope yesterday, excited to escape the war and go home. But now, he was dead¡ªanother casualty to add to the list of those trying to help me. Kneeling beside the Amazons, their armor sparkled a brighter blue covered in morning dew, the sapphire stones catching the sun. I looted the bodies for anything useful. YOU HAVE LOOTED THE AMAZON ARCHER You receive: The next Amazons had similar possessions. I stored everything but the bows and arrows. The Amazons also carried a wide selection of coins and jewelry¡ªbracelets, rings, and necklaces. INVENTORY [NINJA KIMONO]: CURRENCY: We gathered stones from around the canyon and fashioned a makeshift altar. Considering the circumstances, Cragmarr explained that a fire burial would be the best send-off. He poured a vial of oil over the altar, soaking the rocks and Li Wei''s robes. After a moment of silence, he sparked a flame with a flint. The altar caught fire, the crackling sound filling the canyon as smoke rose into the sky. I watched the flames dance, the heat pressing against my skin, and whispered a silent farewell to Li Wei. ¡°What do you want to do with the Amazons?¡± Cragmarr asked. ¡°Leave them,¡± I said. ¡°If anybody finds these bodies, they won¡¯t know who did it. If we can¡¯t bury them, burning them would be even more suspicious.¡± Cragmarr nodded. ¡°I don¡¯t get why they didn¡¯t just take the tunnel straight into the temple,¡± I said. ¡°There are many caves in this area. It would be easy to lose your way.¡± ¡°So, they laid a trap and waited for someone trying to escape.¡± ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°Pretty sneaky. I¡¯ll give them that.¡± We stayed only long enough to ensure the fire burned strong, then climbed out of the canyon. In the distance, a thin plume of smoke rose into the sky, faint but unmistakable. It was coming from the direction of Radiant Temple. * * * We climbed to the top of a ridge overlooking the forest, providing a clear view of the temple in the distance. Though smaller than the one at Raishoto, its walls were much taller, standing out against the backdrop of the trees. A thick column of black smoke curled into the sky. I pointed to the tallest fir tree in the middle of the action. ¡°Hey, Cragmarr, see that super big tree? Keep your sight there.¡± ¡°Yes, I will.¡± Following Cragmarr¡¯s line of sight, I blinked into the tree, catching the sounds of commands and battle cries below. After securing myself, I blinked into the Jingozi arena. The Amazons had laid siege to the temple with a force in the hundreds, every woman standing tall and fierce, forming a sea of blue. The front line was filled with archers, their bows drawn and arrows nocked. They were positioned in loose lines, their aim fixed on the temple¡¯s walls. Behind the archers stood massive catapults, crudely constructed from the trees in the surrounding forest. The wooden beams looked hastily assembled, with branches and trunks lashed together by thick ropes. The catapults were loaded with stones and oil vials. Further back, makeshift watchtowers stood over the catapults. Atop these precarious structures, the leaders of the Amazon forces, identifiable by their elaborate emerald-studded armor, commanded the troops. Below them, dozens of additional warriors with spears formed a dense, shifting mass. Far behind the front lines was a sprawling camp of tents arranged in semicircles. The camp was practically deserted, with only a few figures moving among the tents¡ªnon-warrior types. Every available Amazon was committed to the siege. From what I could observe, the temple walls held steady. Monks waited behind cover for any attempt to scale or breach the perimeter before mounting a defense, but it was only a matter of time. Let¡¯s see how far this gift goes. I walked for what felt like hours, exploring the area, searching for anything that could aid our cause. The Jingozi arena wasn¡¯t an arena at all¡ªit stretched for miles, mirroring the physical world, allowing me to wander as far as I wanted. When I checked the canyon, Amazon archers were spread out in pockets along the cliffs, with lines of sight on every cave opening. Something caught my eye¡ªreinforcements? A squad of Monks was making its way up the canyon, about a dozen strong. These Monks weren¡¯t like the temple Monks I was used to. They were bald as usual, wearing the standard green robes, but there was something different¡ªmore modern, perhaps. They carried gear and tools, looking more like mechanics than Monks. Marching alongside them were hulking robots¡ªJuggers. Satisfied with what I¡¯d seen, I planned to return to my body, only to realize it was out of sight. I¡¯d ventured too far. The Jingozi arena was an endless plane of shimmering Northern Lights and a shiny black floor, with no discernable landmarks to guide me back. ¡°Shit.¡± * * * I wandered across the Jingozi arena, trying to retrace my steps, but it was impossible. Frustrated, I sat on the cold, shiny floor, trying not to panic. ¡°Hi, Ember,¡± the voice said. ¡°Where are you going?¡± ¡°Holy shit, man,¡± I jumped. ¡°Don¡¯t scare me like that.¡± ¡°Sorry, I noticed you looked a little distraught.¡± ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m lost.¡± ¡°Want some help?¡± ¡°Please.¡± ¡°Look up,¡± he said. ¡°Do you see the North Star?¡± I hadn¡¯t noticed it until now, but one star shined far more prominently than the rest. ¡°Next time, follow that star,¡± he said. ¡°Wait. What do you mean next time?¡± I was transported to where I started, the North Star shining directly above me. ¡°I thought I¡¯d save you some time,¡± the voice said. ¡°Thanks.¡± ¡°You¡¯re welcome, Ember.¡± ¡°Hey, um¡­ voice?¡± ¡°Yes?¡± ¡°I know I¡¯ve been¡­ distant.¡± ¡°I appreciate you saying that, and I appreciate you, as always.¡± * * * ¡°You were barely gone a moment,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°Yeah, this gift comes pretty handy. I¡¯ll explain how it works later.¡± ¡°I am looking forward to it.¡± ¡°Ready for phase two?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°It looks like they¡¯re waiting each other out,¡± I began. ¡°Their entire camp is pretty much empty. They¡¯re either overconfident or totally disorganized, but it¡¯s a war of attrition. ¡°The Amazons are from the islands. They are unfamiliar with land battles.¡± ¡°Oh, good to know, and that makes it even better. If we burn their camps and supplies, they¡¯ll have no choice but to pack it up and go home, right?¡± ¡°That does seem feasible, yes. But how do you intend to¡ª¡± ¡°With these,¡± I produced the oil vials from my inventory. ¡°I bet you they have loads of this stuff at camp.¡± Cragmarr nodded. ¡°I saw the reinforcements,¡± I continued. ¡°They look like Monks, but they¡¯re different¡ªthey have Juggers.¡± ¡°Heretic Monks and metal golems. I will explain how it works later.¡± ¡°Touch¨¦, Crag. Looking forward to it.¡± * * * We crawled up a hill for a full view of the camp. I counted hundreds of tents, all bunched together in random formations. In the center, a massive canopy flapped in the wind, covering piles of crates. ¡°How¡¯d they even get all that here?¡± I asked. ¡°Transport boats, most likely. The Amazon are masters of the sea, and a river is nearby.¡± ¡°Li Wei did mention a river, didn¡¯t he?¡± I said, loading my Jingozi hand. Hand: [2/3] [1/4] [6/5] [Force Field I] [Poison Strike] ¡°Em," Cragmarr passed me a Jingozi card. "Take this." I examined it along with the notification. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A BUFF CARD: SUMMON "Woah, this is crazy cool," I exclaimed. "How did you get this?" "I have been saving it for the right moment," Cragmarr said. "My buff meta allows me to find and deal such treasure cards to allies." ¡°You''ve been holding out on me, Crag. Why didn¡¯t you tell me about this earlier?¡± ¡°You did not ask.¡± I rolled my eyes. ¡°Okay, Crag. Same deal,¡± I pulled on my Ninja mask. ¡°Keep your eyes on the camp, especially that supply tent.¡± After waiting for his usual nod, I blinked into the camp next to the supply tent. The coast was clear, at least for now. I pulled the 11 oil vials from my inventory and spun my [6/5] card to make it a [5/6], which then became a [5/8] thanks to my defense meta-buff. Infusing it with two Zii made it a [10/16]. A notification appeared. POWER CARD IS AVAILABLE: Force Field I Force Field I Summon Casting summon onto my card, there was another notification. CHOOSE THE NUMBER OF ZII: [5 Attack or 8 Defend] I paid 5 Zii, and three Ninja clones stepped out from my body and turned to face me. ¡°Grab some oil and splash the tents," I commanded. "But do not kill anybody.¡± They sprang into action. Yup. Crazy cool. The tent had wooden bins stacked high, holding supplies. A young Amazon, no older than sixteen, loaded a cart with oil from one of the piles. I gestured for her to run. She bolted, joining the other panicked Amazons now fleeing the camp. I grabbed more vials and hurled them around the tent. Made of a clay-like material, they shattered on impact, splashing oil everywhere. Responding to my call, a clone joined in, and we soaked the tent within minutes. As I tossed the three Amazon faction tokens from my inventory, all three clones entered the tent and merged with me. Time for phase three. I closed my eyes to focus and blink. But instead of blinking back to Cragmarr, I was teleported into the Jingozi arena. YOU HAVE BEEN CHALLENGED TO A JINGOZI DUEL Challenger: Princess Krya Chapter 31: KYRA Chapter 31: KYRA
Somehow, I was forced into the Jingozi arena by an Amazon named Princess Kyra. Name: Princess Kyra [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: I [Iron] Rank 3 Faction: Amazon [Daughter] Her skin glowed with a warm, sun-kissed hue, her hair braided into neat cornrows cascading down her back. Light blue fabric draped and tied around her body in patterns, leaving her midriff bare. The skirt, frayed at the edges, revealed her slender, toned legs. Her feet were clad in leather sandals, laced up her calves with thin, braided straps intertwined with tiny sapphire beads. She held a spear taller than her with a two-foot-long blade. The shaft was carved from dark wood and decorated with sapphires glimmering like ocean droplets. She wore a necklace of shells and beads with a diamond-shaped pendant for the Amazon faction. A Jingozi card floated horizontally in front of me. It was mine, except I didn¡¯t know which card. ¡°Who are you?¡± I said. ¡°How''d you do that?¡± ¡°I¡¯m Kyra. Don¡¯t you know what a Jingozi duel is?¡± Her accent sounded South African, with an enchanting twist. ¡°I¡¯m kinda new at this.¡± ¡°It¡¯s simple,¡± she scoffed. ¡°You draw the first card off the top of your deck, spin it, and then reveal it to see the winner. If I win, I get double the Zii. You get the regular reward if you win.¡± Cragmarr owes me another tutorial because he didn''t mention this either. ¡°You¡¯re a Jingozi dealer?¡± I asked. ¡°Would we even be here if I wasn¡¯t?¡± ¡°Alright, Miss Princess. Pretty sassy for¡ªwhat are you, sixteen?¡± ¡°And what are you? My mother?¡± she laughed. ¡°Are we going to do this or not?¡± Wait. Did she just call me old? I spun the card multiple times and confirmed. Kyra did the same. JINGOZI DUEL Princess Kyra: [5/4] Ember: [Warp I] Discarded I guess spells didn¡¯t count. My [Warp I] card disintegrated. Another card appeared, and I repeated the process. JINGOZI DUEL Princess Kyra: [5/4] Ember: [3/7] Kyra spun into the air before driving her spear into my shoulder. The blade struck my collarbone. Zii exploded from the wound. A scream tore from my throat as the impact dropped me to my knees. JINGOZI DUEL Winner: Princess Kyra [5/4] Reward: 8 Zii YOU HAVE LOST 1 RANK Tier: II [Bronze] Rank 10 We reappeared inside the supply tent, and I collapsed in a heap as searing pain shot from my neck down to my arm. Kyra loomed over me, her spear lifting my chin with unsettling calm, her face a mask of indifference. I spun past her, releasing a card that cut through the air in a wide arc. It sliced the ropes holding the tent¡¯s awning, sending the canvas crashing around us. From the corner of my eye, I caught a glimpse of Cragmarr, allowing me to blink away. Reappearing on the hill, I unleashed a storm of flaming cards on the camp below. Flames erupted in every direction, engulfing everything in their path. As the firestorm swept across the camp, we dashed down the hill toward the woods. Behind us, the supply tent lit up into a roaring ball of fire. We didn¡¯t stop until we were deep enough into the forest. FEAT COMPLETE: JINGOZI DUEL Compete in your first Jingozi duel. MISSION COMPLETE: THE AMAZON SIEGE Disrupt and delay the Amazon siege enough for Monk reinforcements to arrive. LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer]Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site. Tier: II [Citrine] Rank 9 ¡°My notifications say we¡¯re all good,¡± I said, catching my breath. ¡°I didn¡¯t want them tracking us, so I dumped the faction tokens I looted.¡± ¡°Well done,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°Let us push further and hide our movements. They have other ways of tracking us.¡± While I took to the trees, blinking ahead to stay out of sight, he made no effort to cover his tracks. Instead, he trudged backward through the forest, letting his heavy footsteps create deep, unmistakable prints. The Amazons would never suspect a Golem of launching such an attack. I periodically used the Jingozi arena to scan for danger. We reached the river and turned north up the bank. ¡°Let¡¯s stop by Li Wei¡¯s farm,¡± I said. ¡°It is a risk.¡± ¡°We have something that belongs to them, and they deserve to hear about their son.¡± NEW MISSION: LEI WEI Find Li Wei¡¯s family farm and deliver his pack. * * * ¡°Alright, Crag, tutorial time,¡± I said as we walked along the river bank. "What the heck is a Jingozi duel?" ¡°That is a special card that forces an opponent into a random one-card match that only the Jingozi can bestow,¡± Cragmarr turned to me with concern. ¡°What happened?¡± ¡°You didn¡¯t see it? Some Gen Z Amazon hit me with it while in the camp.¡± ¡°Gen Z?¡± ¡°It¡¯s a generational term in my world. Anyway, she clobbered me good.¡± ¡°Then what happened?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know. She had the jump on me but didn¡¯t go for the kill.¡± ¡°She was a Jingozi dealer, yet not on the front lines. Someone like her would have been a significant advantage for the Amazon¡¯s siege.¡± ¡°No idea. But do you think that¡¯s how the Emperor took out the Shogun?¡± ¡°No. A Jingozi duel lasts one hand, and the damage is impermanent. The Shogun would have recovered. They fought a complete match to the death.¡± ¡°Why take that risk? They would have been evenly matched. ¡°It is possible the Emperor possessed the mental advantage. The Shogun was under immense pressure. ¡°Okay, let''s park that theory for now." I fiddled with my Jingozi deck. "Here''s another question¡ª¡± ¡°Ember,¡± he stopped and loaded his hand. Name: Princess Kyra [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: I [Ruby] Rank 1 Faction: Amazon [Daughter] Kyra stepped out from the treeline onto the bank. Based on her status, she had ranked up twice by beating me in the Jingozi duel. Beside her crouched a gigantic black, snarling, dire wolf the size of a horse. I loaded my cards, and Cragmarr entered a fighting stance. She raised a hand and shouldered her spear. With a whisper and a flick of her fingers, the dire wolf shimmered and vanished, its form swirling into the pearl on her ring. ¡°I don¡¯t want to fight,¡± Kyra said. ¡°I want to come with you.¡± Cragmarr and I exchanged a wary glance, neither lowering our guard. ¡°Why?¡± I asked. ¡°And how did you find us?¡± Kyra took a step closer, both hands now raised. ¡°My pet, Ebon. He tracked your Zii trail after the duel. Please take me north to see my family. My brother lives with my father.¡± ¡°Your father is Emperor faction,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°No way I¡¯m gonna trust you after that Jingozi stunt,¡± I said. ¡°What stops you from calling some Amazons to put a few arrows into us while we sleep?¡± ¡°I could¡¯ve killed you back at the camp. But I didn¡¯t because I need your help.¡± ¡°At tier 1 rank 5? I highly doubt it,¡± I scoffed, regretting how dumb I sounded immediately. But I wasn''t going to take it back. ¡°How¡¯s your shoulder?" she asked with a smirk. ¡°Whatever.¡± ¡°How do you know my level?¡± ¡°Wouldn¡¯t you like to know, princess?¡± I scoffed again. ¡°But hang on, how does that work? Your mother is an Amazon, and your father and brother are Emperor faction?¡± ¡°The Amazons have an arrangement with the Emperors,¡± Cragmarr answered. ¡°They sire children for each other. The sons stay with the Emperors while the daughters go with the Amazons.¡± ¡°That changes nothing,¡± I said. ¡°The answer is still a big fat no.¡± I glanced at Cragmarr, expecting him to agree. ¡°You are Kyra,¡± he said. ¡°Your mother is Queen Zenobia.¡± ¡°Yes, that¡¯s me.¡± ¡°If you want to be with your family so bad,¡± I pointed, ¡°why are you with the Amazons now?¡± Kyra sighed, glancing down at her ring. ¡°I don¡¯t have a choice. My mother¡¯s the queen. I became a Jingozi apprentice to find a way to see my brother. And when the Amazons left to attack the Monks, I hid in the supplies, hoping to find a way north.¡± Cragmarr crossed his arms. I hoped he wasn¡¯t falling for this bullshit. ¡°What will stop you from turning on us when we get to Emperor territory?¡± he said. Kyra met his gaze evenly. ¡°I have no reason to. I only want to see my family. I will pay you.¡± ¡°Em, she might be helpful,¡± Cragmarr said, though hesitant. ¡°We may require assistance to navigate Emperor territory.¡± ¡°How helpful could she be? She¡¯s just some dumb kid, Crag.¡± ¡°I¡¯m seventeen,¡± Kyra interjected. ¡°Hey, princess,¡± I said. ¡°You¡¯re not helping your cause here.¡± I turned back to Cragmarr. ¡°What do you propose we do?¡± Cragmarr whispered. ¡°She knows our location and could warn the Amazons. We take her or kill her.¡± ¡°Crag! Who said anything about killing?¡± ¡°Those two appear to be the only options.¡± ¡°Dammit, Crag,¡± I knew he was right. Kyra had me between a literal rock Golem and a hard place. Everything about this felt like a horrible idea. Bah, what the hell. ¡°Okay, princess,¡± I sighed. ¡°But if you¡¯re playing us, I swear to God¡­¡± Krya bounced up and down, clapping her hands. ¡°Thank you, thank you, thank you!¡± she squealed. ¡°Maybe I¡¯ll teach you more about Jingozi on our way!¡± Yup, and I¡¯m already regretting this. NEW MISSION: THE AMAZON PRINCESS Escort Kyra to her brother. * * * As we set up camp, Hiro weighed heavy on my mind. Kyra was yammering about something, but I tuned her out a while ago. The difference between her and Hiro was I actually liked Hiro. Kyra was a total brat with absolutely no social skills¡ªthe stereotypical homeschooled kid. ¡°Hey, Kyra,¡± I said. ¡°How does that ring work?¡± ¡°Oh, this?¡± She lifted her hand to show four rings. ¡°They¡¯re called familiar rings. You use them to store pets and animal companions. I have four. Ebon, my dire wolf, you already saw. And a terragrym named Runelore, an abyssaray named Azzurish, and Quillara, my zephyrwing. ¡°I have no idea what any of that means,¡± I muttered. ¡°Want to see them?¡± ¡°Um, no thanks. Maybe some other time.¡± ¡°A terragrym is a type of magical turtle,¡± Cragmarr explained. ¡°An abyssaray is a flat sea creature with wings and a long tail, and a zephyrwing is a large predatory bird. ¡°Gotcha. And would one of those rings work for Kitty?¡± Cragmarr gave me a nod as he lit the fire. ¡°Where are you from, Ember?¡± Kyra asked. ¡°Not a local, if that¡¯s what you mean.¡± ¡°Is that why you talk funny?¡± ¡°Whatever.¡± ¡°Then I have a question,¡± Krya said with a mouth full of ration. ¡°Why did you stop us from crushing the Monks? They are the enemies of all factions and deserve to be destroyed. I would kill them all.¡± ¡°Woah, pump the hate breaks, princess. It doesn¡¯t work that way. The Monks aren¡¯t like that. You¡¯ve been listening to a smidge too much Amazon propaganda.¡± ¡°Mother says that neutrality is an act of hostility.¡± ¡°Well, your mother is wrong. The real bad guys are the Jingozi.¡± ¡°No. The Jingozi set us free and brought prosperity to our world.¡± I shot Cragmarr an incredulous and questioning look. ¡°The Amazon faction values Jingozi resources and wealth,¡± Cragmarr explained. ¡°When the Jingozi arrived, their technology gave the Amazons the power to emancipate themselves from the Emperors to establish an independent faction.¡± ¡°How do the two factions get along now?¡± I asked. ¡°The Amazons have carefully cultivated a lineage of powerful warriors and mages. They send their daughters to the sons of the Emperor faction to bear magically gifted children. In return, they keep the strongest girl from each family to be raised as an Amazon. Only the wealthiest Emperors can afford such an arrangement. The mixing of bloodlines forms a tenuous alliance between the factions.¡± ¡°But doesn¡¯t that system create, you know, inbreeding of some sort? Aren¡¯t they all like mutant cousins eventually?¡± ¡°It is not without its problems. Some Amazons seek unions with other factions because of it.¡± ¡°They taint our genetic legacy,¡± Kyra said, ¡°and must be purged.¡± ¡°Is that what your mother, the queen, says?¡± I snapped. ¡°Yes, and it¡¯s the truth.¡± Chapter 32: HAWKSTONES Chapter 32: HAWKSTONES
The sun hung low in the sky as we trudged along the riverbank. The trek stayed relatively uneventful, save for the occasional awkward exchange between Kyra and me. Her worldview, so deeply ingrained in Amazon''s ideology, irritated me to no end. So, I kept the conversation light, sticking to small talk about the sights, weather, and anything else to avoid touchier topics. After a bend in the river, we arrived at a farm matching Li Wei¡¯s description. It was vast, stretching out across the landscape with rows of overgrown crops and fields. A large manor stood beside some dilapidated stables, faded and worn from neglect. The windows were dark, with cracked walls and mud, giving the whole place an air of abandonment. ¡°This is how horror movies usually start,¡± I muttered. Cragmarr gave me a curious look, and I waved it off. In the distance, a lone figure moved slowly through the fields, working the earth with a hoe. As we approached, the farmer, an old man with a weathered face and hunched back, straightened up and waved. A sharp whizzing sound cut through the air. A bolt plunked into the ground a few feet in front of us. ¡°Get down!¡± Cragmarr grunted as he turned his back to shield us. Another bolt sailed over our heads. I peeked past him, spotting an older woman in one of the manor¡¯s windows, aiming a crossbow at us. ¡°Get off our land!¡± she shouted, her voice cracking with age. ¡°We have nothing of value, and we won¡¯t let you take what little we do!¡± Another shot whizzed wide¡ªnot even close. Kyra loaded her Jingozi cards, but I grabbed her wrist, shaking my head. ¡°Wait!¡± I stood just enough to be seen. ¡°Li Wei sent us!¡± The firing stopped. The woman remained at the window, her grip on the crossbow still tight with shaking hands. ¡°What did you say? You know Li Wei?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± I stepped forward with my hands raised. ¡°He helped us. We¡¯re his friends.¡± ¡°How do I know you¡¯re not trying to trick us? How do you know our boy?¡± ¡°You sent him to Radiant Temple to join the Monks. He said he had a sister¡ªyour youngest daughter¡ªwho passed away. He visits you every summer, bringing you gifts.¡± I held up Li Wei¡¯s pack. ¡°He also said you have a bad hip.¡± * * * Inside the manor, the old man and woman introduced themselves as Ethelred and Agatha Hawkstone. Their voices were warm yet carried the weight of years, and their eyes were a bright, piercing blue¡ªjust like Li Wei¡¯s. They both wore run-of-the-mill farm clothes. Noticing my curious look, Cragmarr explained, ¡°When one joins the Monk faction, they take a new name.¡± Ethelred and Agatha led us to a long, dusty banquet table. Though quaint, the inside of the manor desperately required maintenance. The walls were lined with faded tapestries, the wooden floors creaked underfoot, and cobwebs clung to the corners of the ceiling. I envisioned it as a place that once held warmth and life. We sat down, the chairs groaning under our weight. ¡°How do you know our son, Li Wei?¡± Ethelred asked. I took a breath, my heart pounding. ¡°Li Wei¡­ the monastery was attacked¡­ he died.¡± Agatha gasped, her hand flying to her mouth as tears filled her eyes. Ethelred bowed his head and put his arm around her. ¡°We¡¯re so sorry,¡± I said. Cragmarr closed his eyes and nodded. ¡°Who killed him?¡± Agatha whispered. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter,¡± I said. ¡°What matters is that Li Wei sacrificed himself to uphold what he believed in.¡± ¡°His body? Ethelred asked.¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry, we couldn¡¯t bring him with us. We held a fire ceremony at the temple.¡± ¡°You were there¡­ when he died?¡± ¡°I was. He died trying to help us.¡± Ethelred and Agatha mourned and wept openly. I didn¡¯t have the heart to give them more details. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for your loss, Mr. and Mrs. Hawkstone,¡± I said. ¡°He was brave and selfless and cared deeply for you.¡± I handed them Li Wei¡¯s pack. Ethelred opened it, his hands shaking. Inside were hand-carved wooden statues¡ªsmall, delicate figures¡ªnestled among a few personal items. There was a tiny horse, intricately detailed, a little girl holding a flower, and a small house straight from a farmstead.A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. ¡°He would make those so he wouldn¡¯t forget his sister,¡± Agatha said, wiping her eyes. ¡°He was always afraid he¡¯d forget.¡± Agatha¡¯s breath caught as she lifted each statue and placed them on a nearby bookshelf, which was already crowded with similar carvings. I swallowed hard. ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Ethelred pulled out a pouch from the bottom of the pack. He opened it to discover a pile of coins, sapphires, and jewelry. It was all my money, including what I looted from the Amazons. ¡°A gift from the Monks,¡± I said. ¡°They heard of your struggles and took up a collection for you.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t understand. This is beyond generous.¡± ¡°From what I heard from Li Wei, you two more than deserve it. You raised a son that loved you and his sister so much. Fix your farm, or better yet, retire and try to enjoy the rest of your lives.¡± Ethelred emptied the pouch onto the table, pouring a cascade of coins and jewels. A large sapphire, the size of a gumball, caught his eye. He picked it up and carefully placed it into Agatha''s cupped hands. ¡°Agatha, look what our son did for us.¡± ¡°And these should fetch a good price,¡± I said, placing three ornate Amazonian daggers on the table. ¡°Consider them my contribution to Li Wei¡¯s last wishes. They also make great steak knives.¡± Kyra shot to her feet, her glare fixing on me. I met her eyes¡ªdaring her. Neither of us flinched until Cragmarr rose from the table with a stern look. Kyra turned on her heel and stormed out of the hall, the door slamming behind her. ¡°Don¡¯t mind her,¡± I said. ¡°She¡¯s touchy.¡± Cragmarr shook his head and sat back down. ¡°Thank you,¡± Agatha said. ¡°Thank you for bringing this¡­ gift¡­ back to us. What can we do in return?¡± ¡°We cannot stay long,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°We appreciate your kindness, but we are on a journey. Do you have information that can guide us through the Emperor faction?¡± Ethelred and Agatha exchanged a glance before shaking their heads. ¡°We don¡¯t know much about what happens up north,¡± Ethelred said. ¡°There¡¯s an old boat on the river. Maybe it can take you north to Gilderport, a major port city. It¡¯s a trade hub, and you might find the information you need there.¡± ¡°We will stay the night on the boat and leave in the morning,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°Thank you, Ethelred and Agatha,¡± I said. ¡°Once again, I¡¯m sorry for your loss.¡± MISSION COMPLETE: LEI WEI Find Li Wei¡¯s family farm and deliver his pack. The Hawthorns gave us directions to the nearby dock and boathouse. We¡¯d be safe there for the night. They each hugged me. As we exited the manor, Kyra waited outside the entrance, her expression beyond furious. Ebon, her dire wolf, stood beside her, growling and ready to pounce. ¡°How dare you,¡± Kyra hissed. ¡°Those were sacred¡ª¡± ¡°Save it, princess,¡± I walked past her. * * * Cragmarr explained the plan, which calmed her down. In hindsight, maybe I shouldn¡¯t have taunted her. But if she was going to be a little shit, so could I. We reached the boathouse at the edge of the farmstead just as the last light of day faded into twilight. The structure was old, weathered by time and neglect, much like the rest of the property. Just outside, a boat resembling a Viking ship sat in the water. Its hull was cracked and worn, with patches of wood missing and holes in the crusty sails. I was surprised it was even floating. Cragmarr inspected it, running his hand along the splintered wood. ¡°We will work on this in the morning,¡± he said. ¡°I''ll do what I can, but this vessel will be unreliable.¡± ¡°Do your thing,¡± I said, exhausted. ¡°I¡¯m going to sleep.¡± Inside, I got comfortable on the wood floor, using a pile of sacks as a pillow. I drifted off as soon as I closed my eyes. * * * I awoke to a low, rumbling growl. Ebon, Kyra¡¯s dire wolf, stood over me, fangs inches from my face. His breath reeked of something metallic and gamey. Heart pounding, I summoned a ration and offered it to him. Ebon sniffed it before snatching it from my palm, nearly taking my whole hand. He turned away, his growl fading into a low grumble. ¡°Who¡¯s a good doggy?¡± I said with a sigh of relief. Kyra and Cragmarr stood by the boat, now completely transformed. The hull was repaired, the wood reinforced and smoothed, and the sail patched up. It wasn¡¯t brand new, but it was a serious improvement over the wreck it once was. ¡°How in the world?¡± I asked. Kyra wiped a smudge of dirt from her cheek and shrugged like it was nothing. ¡°I¡¯ve spent my whole life working on boats. Cragmarr¡¯s buff helped.¡± ¡°You used Zii for this?¡± They both gave me a look as if I¡¯d asked whether the sky was blue. ¡°Well, great job,¡± I said. ¡°I didn¡¯t think it was possible.¡± The versatility of Zii was mind-blowing¡ªwhether for healing or repairs, it seemed like there was nothing it couldn¡¯t do. With the boat ready, we loaded our supplies and prepared to push off from the dock. ¡°Hang on,¡± I said. ¡°No wind and no oars. How are we supposed to move this thing?¡± Kyra smirked and hopped to the front of the boat. Extending her fist, she summoned what appeared to be a miniature turtle shell and dropped it into the river. The water rippled before a creature broke the surface¡ªa giant, magical alligator turtle, its armored shell gleaming in the morning light. Each segment of its shell had a glowing rune etched into it, pulsing with soft blue energy. The creature was easily the size of a Volkswagen Beetle, with a thick leather harness strapped around its torso. ¡°What¡¯s that again, Crag?¡± I asked. ¡°A terragrym. Named Runelore.¡± ¡°Okay, I¡¯m impressed.¡± Kyra dropped onto the terragrym¡¯s back. She grabbed one of the leather straps hanging from the harness and lashed it to the front of the boat, tying it with a fancy knot. Runelore¡¯s weathered eyes blinked slowly as Kyra sang in a language I didn¡¯t recognize. At once, the turtle responded, dipping its head before paddling forward. We started to glide through the water. Kyra glanced back over her shoulder, flashing me a grin. ¡°No wind, no oars¡­ no problem.¡± I rolled my eyes while Cragmarr let out a chuckle. * * * When the wind picked up, Kyra raised the sail. She lectured us about respecting the spirit of the ocean despite being on a river. After talking our ears off, she curled up at the bow and was out cold within minutes. ¡°What you did for Li Wei¡¯s family,¡± Cragmarr said, ¡°that was noble,¡± ¡°Yeah, well. The Hawkstones have been through enough. It¡¯s about time something went their way.¡± Cragmarr turned and looked at me. ¡°What?¡± I said. ¡°It is an honor to be your ward.¡± ¡°Thanks, Crag. Even though you¡¯re the first and only ward I¡¯ve ever known, you¡¯re the best ward a Jingozi apprentice could have.¡± ¡°What is your plan?¡± ¡°Not sure. I¡¯m sort of improvising here. But I do have an endgame in mind.¡± ¡°What do you mean?¡± ¡°Well, I need to reach level 24 for a chance to get home, right?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°So, first, we¡¯re going to drop off the princess¡ªmission accomplished. Then I¡¯ll clear my name and thwart Edric¡¯s plan, somehow¡ªanother mission accomplished. Throw in a few more achievements here and there, and I''ll reach the maximum tiers in no time. Then, come hell or high water, I¡¯ll make the Jingozi send me home.¡± ¡°You are required to win the Jingozi tournament.¡± ¡°When does that happen?¡± ¡°When you are ready.¡± ¡°You mean when the Jingozi say I¡¯m ready.¡± ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°Welp, in the meantime, I have a sneaking suspicion that Edric plans to get in our way.¡± ¡°He is a formidable enemy.¡± ¡°I know. Have you ever heard the expression ¡®playing chess while everyone else plays checkers¡¯?¡± ¡°No, but I can infer the metaphor based on my knowledge of your games.¡± ¡°Edric¡¯s been five moves ahead this whole time. He¡¯s behind everything, like the attack on Radiant Temple. So, I need to get a piece onto that chessboard.¡± ¡°How?¡± ¡°It just so happens, Crag, I¡¯ve got someone in mind.¡± Chapter 33: PIRATES Chapter 33: PIRATES
Kyra¡¯s spear sliced through the air in sharp, deadly arcs. She was fast, and each move was executed flawlessly, but no matter what she tried, Cragmarr was always a step ahead. He moved with a calm, almost effortless power, absorbing her blows. Each time her spear struck him, it was as if his body only grew stronger in strength and size¡ªthe impacts fed him rather than weakened him. She circled him, searching for an opening, but Cragmarr was unyielding. His defenses were impenetrable and counters efficient. Every strike she attempted, every feint, was met with a response, turning her momentum against her. It was like trying to move a mountain¡ªno matter how hard she pushed, he only became more immovable. Every Jingozi match followed the same rhythm. They started with card attacks followed by pauses to regroup, collect Zii rewards, and reload cards. Each time Kyra charged, hoping to find a weakness, Cragmarr met her with unshakable resolve. His deflections and counters made her stagger. She was relentless, refusing to give in, but with each failed attempt, her frustration mounted. In a last-ditch effort, Kyra summoned her dire wolf, Ebon. The massive creature leaped into the fray, its black fur bristling, eyes glowing. Ebon pounced, teeth bared. Cragmarr blocked, but the wolf¡¯s jaws clamped down on his forearm. Cragmarr grimaced but ignored the wolf locked on his arm and charged at Kyra. She raised her spear and planted the end into the floor to skewer him. But in her eagerness, she missed the subtle shift in Cragmarr¡¯s angle. At the last moment, Cragmarr twisted his body past the spear, transforming into a hulking giant. Ebon¡¯s jaws lost their grip. Cragmarr¡¯s massive fist shattered Kyra¡¯s spear into dozens of fragments, knocking her off balance. Before she hit the ground, his foot bore down onto the back of her head, stomping her face into the cold Jingozi area floor. The match ended with Kyra¡¯s third defeat of the day. Of course, neither knew I¡¯d been watching using my gift. Kyra crumpled to the boat''s deck with a grunt, winded and stunned. Ebon was back, too, looking more terrifying than usual. But a single stern command from Kyra summoned it back into her ring. ¡°You fought well,¡± Cragmarr said, extending his hand. Kyra¡¯s face flushed with frustration and grudging respect. ¡°You set me up,¡± she said. ¡°I waited until you played your strongest card to counter it. But I did not realize familiars could join you in the arena.¡± ¡°It¡¯s a special enchantment and deck upgrade.¡± ¡°Indeed,¡± he nodded. ¡°You represent the Amazons well, Kyra, but attacking is not everything. Often, you require patience and strategy.¡± Kyra wiped the sweat from her brow, still catching her breath. ¡°I¡¯ll remember that,¡± a small smile tugged at the corners of her lips. Name: Princess Kyra [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: II [Bronze] Rank 10 Faction: Amazon [Daughter] After all that training, Kyra leveled up. Good for her. I stared at the distant shore, pretending to mind my own business. * * * The river was calm as we sailed upstream, an early morning mist clinging to the water''s surface. Between Runelore towing the boat and Kyra¡¯s sailing expertise, there wasn¡¯t much to do than enjoy the ride. I took advantage of the time to fish. With a flick of my wrist, I sent cards flying into the water ahead of the boat. Fish floated up, allowing me to lean over and scoop the catch¡ªif Runelore didn¡¯t snap it up first. We took turns resting and cooking. Cragmarr cleaned and prepared the fish while Kyra and I stoked the small fire in a makeshift pit on the deck. The smell of roasting fish mingled with the fresh river air. After meals, we practiced Zii-Kata on the deck. Kyra¡¯s form was adequate, but I highlighted a few areas to improve. ¡°Straighten your back a bit more,¡± I said, stepping to guide her posture. ¡°And when you extend your arms, think of pushing the energy outward like this.¡± I demonstrated. She took my advice well, her usual cockiness tempered by a genuine desire to learn. * * * I broke up the monotony, bouncing in and out of the Jingozi arena for Zii-Kata and new power cards. Grabbing the power card caused my body to bulge with pressure. My hair and teeth flew out. Blood vessels burst, and my skin split open like peeling a banana. I blinked out of the Jingozi arena¡ªback to the boat¡ªshaken but not incapacitated. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A POWER CARDIf you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Force Field II The next spell card thrust me face-to-face with another demonic doppelganger. She cast a spell trapping me in a cyclone of magical shards tearing at my flesh. I blinked out. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A POWER CARD Mystic Strike Although my new power cards were duplicated, their effects were more potent and cost differently. I had a feeling it would be a much bigger deal in an actual Jingozi match since the goal was to reduce the other player''s Zii to zero. I blinked out again, collecting my breath. Suddenly, the air whistled, and a splash erupted behind us. A ship had somehow crept up on us. Another cannon shot whizzed past, crashing wide off our starboard side and spraying us with water. The next one hit even closer, too close. ¡°Pirates!¡± Kyra yelled. ¡°We need to take them out before they sink us!¡± ¡°You¡¯ve gotta be kidding me,¡± I muttered. Before the next cannonball could hit, I blinked onto the pirate ship¡¯s deck, appearing between a group of dark elves decked out in full pirate gear. For a moment, I stood there. ¡°Hey, fellas,¡± I said. The first one turned. He shouted, and the rest surrounded, drawing their daggers and swords. One elf lunged, but I blinked to the side, watching the blade slice through the air where I had just stood. AUTO DODGE: SUCCESSFUL Card Discarded [4/5] 80% Something else occurred to me about my auto dodge as another pirate slashed at my back. First, my defense buff didn''t apply because that would lower the percentage chance for success. Second, my cards automatically spun in my hand to optimize for further success. I ducked, slipping between them as their swords clashed above me. I fired a smoke bomb at my feet, filling the air with thick clouds. The pirate elves stumbled and coughed, disoriented. I hurled a barrage of maximum-infused cards straight into the floorboards, the magic tearing through the wood. With a quick flick of my wrist, I cast my new [Mystic Strike] onto my last battle card with a maximum Zii multiplier, sending a magical fireball blasting into the hull. The ship groaned and shuddered, water already rushing in. Pirates panicked, scrambling to abandon ship, and dove into the water. Once I knew that they were finished, I blinked back to our boat. ¡°I don¡¯t think they¡¯ll bother us,¡± I said. ¡°There may be more,¡± Cragmarr replied. Kyra leaped onto Runelore, letting out a shrill Amazon warcry. The runes on the terragrym¡¯s shell flared to life, and our boat surged forward, gaining speed. As we raced downriver, the pirate ship erupted into flames in the distance. * * * The river widened as we neared Gilderport, the towering walls of the port city coming into view. Kyra told us Gilderport was the heart of trade between the Amazon and Emperor factions. The harbour was massive, a maze of piers and wharves lined with warehouses, market stalls, and merchant vessels of all sizes. The docks teemed with ships as they entered inland from the ocean, their sails billowing as they jostled for position. Even afar, I smelled the mix of saltwater, spices, and something distinctly metallic. ¡°I love that smell,¡± Krya said, inhaling deeply. ¡°The blacksmiths and their magical forges here are the best in the world. You can buy almost anything, or they¡¯ll make it for you.¡± The architecture was visibly distinct from Raishoto''s. The buildings were tall and narrow, their timber-framed facades leaning slightly forward as if they¡¯d been standing for centuries. Each structure was detailed with ornate carvings¡ªdragons, griffins, and strange creatures I couldn¡¯t name¡ªtwisting around windows and doorways. Other buildings were connected by arched stone bridges crossing the narrow, cobbled streets below. Above it all loomed tall, twisting spires of gleaming brass and copper, each crowned with rotating wind vanes crackling with magical energy. Banners flapped in the breeze, each decorated with the crests of merchant guilds, marking their territories within the city. As we navigated the bustling port, the waters around us churned. Kyra ran to the side of the boat and leaned over in excitement. ¡°This is the best part!¡± she squealed. The ocean''s surface swelled, and a form emerged¡ªa colossal water Golem, its body composed entirely of swirling currents and shimmering seafoam. It towered above us, eyes glowing with a soft, coppery light as it turned toward our small boat. I froze, watching in awe as the Golem extended one of its enormous, fluid arms. It nudged our boat, guiding us smoothly through the crowded harbour, steering us past other vessels and into an open berth. Kyra tossed a Zii coin into the Golem as we docked. The Golem responded by spraying water over her before sinking back into the depths. Cragmarr tied us in place, pulling the boat against the dock. ¡°We must blend in,¡± he said, eyeing the crowd. ¡°We cannot risk being recognized.¡± ¡°Already ahead of you,¡± I said. I blinked to a stall across the docks, grabbed three large cloaks from a display, and left a Jingozi token on the counter as payment. I blinked back to Cragmarr and Kyra, handing them the cloaks. The dark, muted cloaks were long and heavy, with deep hoods¡ªperfect for blending in with the sea of travellers, merchants, and sailors. The wooden planks groaned beneath our weight as we stepped onto the docks. The port city buzzed with activity¡ªtraders shouting about their goods, sailors puffing on pipes over dice games, and merchants deep in haggling wars. ¡°Anybody else hungry?¡± I asked. * * * The pub was packed, filled with the scent of ale, roasted meat, and rowdy conversation. We found a quieter table near the back. Cragmarr and Kyra ordered drinks, and I decided to try ale for the first time. A plump barmaid, her ample cleavage spilling out of a low-cut blouse, handed us three frothy mugs. I took a tentative sip and grimaced. Cragmarr and Kyra downed their drinks with enthusiasm. ¡°How do you two drink this stuff?¡± I wrinkled my nose, pushing the mug away. ¡°It tastes like someone peed into a sock then poured it into a beer.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t you know? The pee is the secret ingredient,¡± Krya chortled. Cragmarr smiled and nodded. ¡°Ha, ha, very funny.¡± Without missing a beat, Kyra reached over to grab my mug. ¡°Are you even old enough to drink?¡± I asked. Kyra rolled her eyes and chugged while Cragmarr signalled for another round. Despite the fact Golems don¡¯t eat, I wondered if they all loved booze as much as Cragmarr. ¡°Fancy some food to go with that ale, dearies?¡± the barmaid asked as she brought us our refills. ¡°What do you have?¡± Kyra asked. The barmaid listed a few options, but we settled on the stew. When the bowls arrived, steaming and filled to the brim with tender chunks of meat, vegetables, and thick, savoury broth, I couldn¡¯t help but sigh in relief. After days of surviving on fish and rations, the stew was like a gift from heaven. I dug in, savoring each hearty bite. As we ate, I leaned forward and asked Kyra, ¡°So, where exactly is your brother¡¯s family?¡± Kyra wiped her mouth with the back of her hand, thinking. ¡°It¡¯s called Ironhaven. But I don¡¯t know where it is.¡± A sudden crash interrupted our discussion. Across the room, a group of dark elf pirates knocked over a table. A brawl ensued, chairs and mugs flying. ¡°They got pirates everywhere,¡± I mumbled with a mouthful of stew. ¡°The dark elves are criminals,¡± Kyra said. ¡°It¡¯s best to avoid them.¡± ¡°This place is too dangerous,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°We need to find somewhere safer.¡± ¡°A Jingozi sanctuary,¡± I said. ¡°A city as big as this should have one, right?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± Cragmarr nodded. ¡°What¡¯s a Jingozi sanctuary?¡± Kyra asked. ¡°Oh, princess,¡± I flashed her a grin. ¡°You¡¯re in for a treat.¡± Chapter 34: DRINKS Chapter 34: DRINKS
The Jingozi sanctuary was impossible to miss. It stuck out like a sore thumb amidst the city''s medieval architecture, just as it had in Raishoto. We stepped through the double oak doors. Rich tapestries lined the walls, depicting scenes of mythical battles and legendary heroes, their colors vibrant and alive. Chandeliers hung from the high ceilings, their crystals refracting light in a thousand directions. I approached the front desk and handed over three Jingozi tokens. The host, a tall, thin man wearing standard black Jingozi robes, called for an attendant and motioned up the staircase. A young attendant led us up several flights and down a corridor lined with portraits. We were all on the same floor, the doors to our rooms set beside each other. I showed Kyra how to open the door with her Zii and listened to her gush for a while about the accommodations. Part of me was happy to share this new experience with her. In my room, I showered and sank into bed. Despite the comfort, sleep eluded me. My mind was too restless. * * * After tossing and turning, I gave up on sleep. Heading to the bar for a drink, I figured it might clear my head¡ªor at least provide some distraction. The bar was cozy, with a warm glow from the fireplace casting flickering shadows on the wood-paneled walls. A bard, his fingers dancing across the strings, played a soothing tune on a mandolin in the corner. The bartender, a rotund older man with a handlebar mustache and kind eyes that crinkled at the corners, greeted me with a welcoming smile. His well-worn apron and the ease with which he polished a glass spoke of years of experience in this profession. As I approached the bar, the scent of polished wood and hints of various spirits filled my nostrils, oddly comforting in their familiarity. ¡°Good evening, my lady,¡± he said. ¡°What may I serve you?¡± ¡°Surprise me,¡± I said. ¡°Perhaps the house special?¡± ¡°As long as it¡¯s not ale.¡± ¡°Right away.¡± The bartender reached behind the bar, pulling out several bottles filled with vibrant, colorful liquids. He deftly mixed a dash of this and a splash of that, the liquids swirling together. The citrus scent hit my nose as he added a twist, followed by a sprinkle of finely ground spices. The concoction shimmered as he poured it into a crystal goblet. With a flourish, he finished it off with a sprig of mint. ¡°Here you go,¡± he slid the goblet across the bar. ¡°This is a favorite among the apprentices¡ªdrop a Zii into it.¡± ¡°You¡¯re kidding, right?¡± I said, looking dubiously at the elixer. ¡°I don¡¯t joke about my drinks.¡± I snapped my fingers and dropped the Zii coin into the drink. Nothing happened. I took a sip. The flavors danced on my tongue¡ªfruity, with a hint of spice and a smooth finish. ¡°Woah,¡± I said after another sip. ¡°That¡¯s¡­ spectacular.¡± ¡°The drink changes to your Zii frequency. It tastes how you want it to taste.¡± ¡°Liquid Zii,¡± I chuckled. ¡°Truth be told,¡± he whispered, leaning in, ¡°all that other flourish, including the fancy language, is just for show.¡± ¡°Your secret¡¯s safe with me,¡± I laughed. After polishing off my drink, I waved the bartender down and asked, ¡°Do you know an Elf named Jon Deerfoot? Emperor faction?¡± The bartender gave me a knowing look. A woman at the end of the bar turned toward me, her eyes flashing with annoyance. Name: Seraphina Vale [Divine Dealer] Tier: III [Steel] Rank 4 Faction Emperor [Lord] ¡°Jon Deerfoot? she asked, arching an eyebrow, her tone laced with disdain. ¡°That elf is a swindler and a charlatan. He vanished after months of empty promises. I never heard from him again. He¡¯s a charming one, but don¡¯t waste your time.¡± ¡°Sounds like him, alright.¡± Seraphina Vale had raven-black hair and emerald eyes. She wore skin-tight dark leather reinforced with light armor. A deep lavender cloak fastened with a silver crescent moon brooch draped her shoulders. On the bar rested two finely crafted daggers with amethyst-adorned hilts.This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there. The bartender leaned in, lowering his voice. ¡°As you can see, Jon¡¯s got a reputation around here. You won¡¯t find him easily, but you might want to try the trade district if you seek his associates. There¡¯s a part of it that deals in rare oils¡ªpeople say he has connections there.¡± ¡°Thanks,¡± I held up my empty goblet. ¡°Please send the lady down there one of these. Put it on my tab.¡± ¡°Drinks are on the house here, my lady. If that¡¯s what you mean.¡± ¡°Even better. Make hers a double.¡± * * * I practically melted into a plush armchair, drooling over a steaming plate. The cut of meat¡ªwhatever it came from¡ªwas seared to perfection, dripping with juices. I didn¡¯t waste any time digging in. Across from me, Kyra ate a bowl of dumplings floating in a creamy, fragrant soup. Her eyes closed in bliss after each spoonful. Cragmarr was nursing a tankard of ale, watching us with a bemused smile as Kyra launched into a giddy tirade about her room again¡ªespecially the shower. ¡°So, what¡¯s the plan, Crag?¡± I interrupted between bites. He set down his ale and reached into his pouch, pulling out a folded piece of parchment. ¡°Directions to Ironhaven,¡± he said, unfolding the paper and spreading it on the table. The map was beyond detailed, showing a dense network of winding roads, riverways, and landmarks. ¡°Those aren¡¯t directions, Crag,¡± I said. ¡°Nothing¡¯s marked.¡± Cragmarr snapped his fingers for a Zii coin and held it to the map. An orange line traced between two points, the southern one marked by a pulsing shield, the symbol for the Golem faction. Kyra held up her Zii coin, and a blue diamond appeared beside Cragmarr¡¯s. ¡°Okay,¡± I said, ¡°that is pretty cool.¡± ¡°I arranged for us to join a caravan heading out tomorrow,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°It is a supply run that will get us close to Ironhaven in ten days. We leave at noon from the north gate.¡± Kyra couldn¡¯t contain her excitement and practically vibrated in her seat. "I''m curious, Crag," I said. "How much does something like that cost?" "Three Jingozi tokens." "That''s what I''ve been meaning to ask. What exactly are Jingozi tokens?" "Jingozi tokens are the most valuable currency in this dimension. They are only granted to those who follow the Jingozi way. There is only a finite number of them. Once they are redeemed, they are placed back into the game as rewards. But the Jingozi use them to track progress and their economy." "That sounds like crypto¡ª" I caught myself before I said too much in front of Kyra. ¡°I¡¯ll meet you at the north gate at noon, but I¡¯ve got a few things to take care of in the morning.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll come with you,¡± Kyra said. ¡°It is unwise for an Amazon princess to be seen in public right now, Kyra,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°We do not want to draw unnecessary attention.¡± ¡°Fine,¡± she relented, pushing her bowl away. After another gulp of her drink, she offered a toast. ¡°Thank you for introducing me to this place. We don¡¯t have anything like this on the islands. Everything is so exquisite¡ªthe room, shower, and food. It¡¯s been¡­ a gift.¡± ¡°You¡¯re welcome, Kyra. I¡¯m glad you¡¯re enjoying it,¡± I said, surprised by her gratitude. Cragmarr lifted his mug as a server dropped another crystal goblet at our table. I popped a Zii coin into it, clinked it with Cragmarr¡¯s mug, and savored the first sip. ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± Krya asked. ¡°That¡¯s your fourth one.¡± ¡°It¡¯s the house special,¡± I passed it to her. ¡°Don¡¯t knock it until you try it.¡± Kyra sipped and spat it into her empty soup bowl. ¡°That¡¯s horrible," she scrunched her face. "It tastes like dirty trough water.¡± ¡°I guess my Zii tastes funny. And how do you know what trough water tastes like?¡± We all laughed. Late into the night, the conversation flowed as freely as the drinks, and I found myself pleasantly enjoying the company more than I''d expected. Cragmarr, usually so stoic, loosened up and regaled us with tales from his travels. His stories were filled with dry humor and unexpected twists that had us in stitches. Kyra, her initial hesitation melting away, painted vivid pictures of life on the Amazon islands¡ªthe lush jungles, the fierce training, and the complex social hierarchies. When it was my turn, I recounted my time with the Monks, carefully choosing my words. I noticed Kyra''s eyes narrow slightly as I spoke¡ªprecisely the reaction I''d hoped for. The drinks kept flowing, each round adding a new layer to our conversation. I lost track of how many I''d had, but I didn''t care. When we finally called it a night, I realized with a start that we were the last ones left. The once-bustling dining hall was eerily empty, and the candles had burned down to stubs. * * * I woke up with my head pounding, the effects of the night¡¯s revelry making themselves known with a vengeance. The morning sun was blinding, and every sound felt like a hammer against my skull. Groaning, I dragged myself out of bed into a few minutes of Zii-Kata. The hangover lifted like a fog. The trade district came alive, bright, and early. Blending in wearing my cloak, I slipped through the crowds until a random stall caught my attention. The merchant was a skinny man with an apron and a patch over one eye. His cart was laden with an array of glittering rings hanging from chains. I browsed until finding a duplicate of Kyra¡¯s familiar ring. ¡°Can I help you, miss?¡± ¡°Is this a familiar ring?¡± ¡°It certainly is,¡± he glanced around, ¡°I don''t see your¡ª¡± ¡°Someone¡¯s pet-sitting her at the moment.¡± ¡°Ah.¡± The merchant polished the ring on his sleeve. ¡°Will you accept this here?¡± I presented a Jingozi token. He tripped over himself and waved his hands. ¡°No, miss, that¡¯s far too much!¡± he said. ¡°Please, take whatever you like from the cart, anything!¡± I paused, taken aback by his reaction. I knew Jingozi tokens were valuable, but really? ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± I said. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to¡ª¡± ¡°Say no more. That token represents more than currency. It¡¯s my honor to serve the Jingozi.¡± ¡°Well, okay then. Show me what you have.¡± The merchant¡¯s hands trembled as he showed me a few options. I settled on two rings. YOU HAVE PURCHASED NEW ITEMS Familiar Ring Store one creature. Cost: 1 Zii The creature is frozen in time and does not age or heal. Ring of Regeneration Automatically regenerate +8 Zii per hour. Attack Meta +10/hr Defense Meta +12/hr Buff Meta +14 /hr Ring of Hand Mastery During PVE, your hand holds 6 cards. The merchant tried to press more items into my hands¡ªbracelets, amulets, even an enchanted dagger. ¡°Thank you,¡± I slipped the rings onto my fingers. ¡°But this is more than enough.¡± The merchant shook my hand, still frazzled. As I turned to leave, I asked, ¡°Do you know where the magic oils trade office is?¡± ¡°Just follow this street until you reach the end,¡± he said. ¡°It¡¯s a small wooden door on the right. You can¡¯t miss it.¡± I thanked him again and headed off, winding through the narrow streets until I found the office. It was a modest, almost unassuming building with a single wooden door and a small sign saying Magic Oils. I knocked. NEW MISSION: RESCUE THE FAMILY Rescue the mother and daughter from the criminal syndicate. Chapter 35: TRIPLETS Chapter 35: TRIPLETS
Backing a few steps, I launched myself up the wall with a boost from a Jingozi card. My hands caught the roof''s edge, and I pulled myself up. The tiles beneath my feet were slippery, but I tiptoed, scanning for signs of activity below. An opening led into a small courtyard within the building. Dropping down, a faint, muffled crying came from inside. I crept closer through a narrow hallway leading to the source of the noise. Peeking around the corner, it was a scene from a gangster movie¡ªonly with pirates. A burly, purple-skinned elf in pirate gear stood over a kneeling woman and a girl, his hand gripping a bloody knife. Across the room, another fair-skinned elf sat at a desk with his boots propped up, smoking a pipe. Beside the woman and child lay a dead man, his lifeless eyes staring up at the ceiling. The mother clutched her daughter, both of them trembling with fear. I loaded my Jingozi hand and stepped into the room. ¡°Enough,¡± I said. The elf at the desk glanced up, his eyes narrowing. He was no ordinary pirate thug¡ªmore refined with a smug superiority. His long brown hair was slicked back, revealing pointed ears lined with silver earrings. Name: Valen Deerfoot [Divine Dealer] Tier: IV [Cobalt] Rank 6 Faction Emperor [Lord] Valen wore a long leather coat over dark silks and leather. He held his pipe with one hand while the other rested on a jeweled sword across his lap. ¡°I don¡¯t believe we¡¯ve been introduced,¡± he said. ¡°My name is¡ª¡± ¡°Valen Deerfoot. I know.¡± ¡°Aha! My reputation precedes me, I see. And you are?¡± ¡°Not important. Any relation to Jon Deerfoot?¡± Valen chuckled, a low, menacing sound. ¡°Why, yes. Jon¡¯s my brother¡ªstepbrother, if we¡¯re being precise. That¡¯s why he doesn¡¯t have my good looks.¡± ¡°Let them go, and we can talk about Jon.¡± ¡°I¡¯m afraid that¡¯s not how things work around here. You see, I¡¯m simply collecting on a debt. This family couldn¡¯t pay, so now their business belongs to me.¡± He gestured to the burly elf, who tightened his grip on the knife. ¡°What do you want with Jon?¡± ¡°We have unfinished business.¡± ¡°Oh, I see, you¡¯re one of those,¡± he smirked. ¡°Left you scorned, did he? He always had a taste for wenches and strumpets. Which one are you?¡± Valen was a max-level tier 1 Jingozi apprentice. I didn¡¯t think I could take him, even in a fair fight. And what the hell is a strumpet? ¡°Jon Deerfoot, that traitorous swine,¡± he continued. ¡°He broke his family contract and ran off with a bounty from Emperor Overlord Edric. I want him dead. What about you, fellas?¡± Daggers drawn, three more dark elves stepped into the hall behind me. ¡°I¡¯ll tell you what. If you show me where Jon is and let the mother and daughter go, I¡¯ll kill him for you.¡± Valen arched an eyebrow. ¡°Well, by the looks of it, you¡¯re a Jingozi apprentice, most likely Ninja faction by the way you snuck in here. But why, pray tell, should I trust you?¡± ¡°What have you got to lose? You¡¯ve already won here. Killing these two is pointless.¡± ¡°Yes, but I get to have fun.¡± ¡°Come on, Valen. If I succeed, that traitorous dog is dead.¡± ¡°Swine¡­ traitorous swine.¡± ¡°Whatever. If I fail, I¡¯m just another dead strumpet.¡± ¡°Ha! I knew it,¡± Valen puffed his pipe in consideration. He reached into his coat to pull out a scroll. He scribbled some ineligible words onto the parchment with a feathered pen off the desk. ¡°Very well then, here¡¯s a contract. Once you sign, you¡¯re bound by a Zii oath to complete the mission. No turning back, girlie.¡± Valen snapped his fingers and pressed the purple Zii coin onto the scroll. He slid it to me and I did the same. NEW MISSION: KILL JON DEERFOOT Fulfill your contract with Valen Deerfoot. Failure to complete this mission will result in the contract being reversed. ¡°Now, where is he?¡± I asked. Valen reached for a map on the desk and held out his hand. I handed him another Zii coin, and he used it to mark a location on the map. ¡°Jon¡¯s holed up here,¡± he said, tapping the spot. ¡°He¡¯s well-fortified, but with that tongue of yours, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll find a way.¡± He gave me a slimy wink. ¡°The mother and daughter?¡± ¡°You¡¯re free to go,¡± he made a shooing gesture with his fingers. ¡°All of you.¡± The purple elves sheathed their knives and retreated down the hall. Valen stayed behind the chair with a disinterested expression. As soon as we stepped outside, the mother and daughter bolted without a word. MISSION COMPLETE: RESCUE THE FAMILY Rescue the mother and daughter from the criminal syndicate. ¡°Seriously?¡± I watched them run. ¡°Bye Ember¡­ Thanks for risking your life so we didn¡¯t get murdered to death or worse today. You¡¯re the best¡­¡± I¡¯m starting to really dislike pirates.Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. * * * Cragmarr and Kyra waited at the northern gate inside a supply cart. Kyra was buried under an armful of pastries and other goodies. Cragmarr gave me a nod but seemed to sense my sour mood. ¡°Good morning,¡± he said as I climbed into the back of the cart. I settled into a corner of the wagon and pulled my hood over my head. Oblivious, Kyra stuffed a pastry into her mouth, crumbs spilling everywhere as she munched away. ¡°You should¡¯ve seen the pantry at the sanctuary,¡± she said with a mouthful. ¡°It had everything! I¡¯ve never tasted anything like this.¡± She offered me a doughnut, but I shook my head. After a glance, Cragmarr addressed us both. ¡°I paid for extra discretion,¡± he said. ¡°We must stay hidden in the back of the cart, or we may bring unwanted attention and danger to this caravan.¡± ¡°Oh! I almost forgot,¡± Kyra said. ¡°Ember, I have a gift for you¡ªsomething you wanted.¡± She pulled out a familiar ring from her cloak¡ªexcept this one was set with two pearls¡ªand took my hand. Noticing the one already on my finger, she expressed her dismay. ¡°Where did you get that?¡± she asked. ¡°I went shopping this morning.¡± ¡°Hmm, well, have this anyway. Mine¡¯s better.¡± FAMILIAR RING [ENHANCED] Store one creature. Cost: 1 Zii Enhancement: Creature Evolution [1 Charge] I wore one familiar ring on each hand. ¡°Thank you, Krya,¡± I said. She was already munching on a glazed croissant, staring out the back of the wagon. The driver clicked his tongue to urge the horses forward and set off. * * * The journey was relatively uneventful for the next week, save for the discomfort of sitting all day in the back of a bouncing supply cart. I felt every bump and pothole. Our caravan consisted of twelve wagons filled with supplies and thirty-six guards. Two guards drove each wagon, with another on horseback. We passed through forests, fields, and small villages, sneaking out of the wagon at night to get some air and stretch our legs. The occasional bandit attack did break up the monotony. Dark elves attempted multiple ambushes, their arrows raining down on the caravan from the cover of the trees. Numerous guards were injured, and at least one died in every attack. Cragmarr, Kyra, and I stayed hidden in the wagon each time, but I couldn¡¯t sit idle. As the guards fought, I discreetly flicked cards through the openings in the canvas, taking out bandits one by one. ¡°What makes this caravan such a target?¡± I asked. ¡°The cargo,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°It is of great enough value to be transported in secret.¡± ¡°Got it.¡± Whenever we lent a hand, the guard captain¡ªa giant-of-a-man with a gnarly head scar and grizzled beard¡ªpopped his head to acknowledge our help. We offered to heal their wounded, for which he couldn¡¯t thank us enough. The injured would travel in the back of the cart with us while we tended to them. They offered to pay us, but we declined. Kyra spent the rest of the week complaining. ¡°This wagon is so uncomfortable,¡± she¡¯d whine, shifting in her seat for the hundredth time. ¡°I wish I was back at the Jingozi sanctuary, enjoying that soft bed and a glorious bath.¡± Cragmarr checked his map to track our progress. He rarely spoke, focusing on the task at hand. He was just as eager to finish this part of the journey for different reasons. Out of sheer boredom, Kyra unleashed Ebon on the unsuspecting bandits during the next skirmish. The fight was over before it started, as bandits and guards both fled in terror. She barely contained her laughter as the caravan was delayed searching for the monster that had mysteriously vanished. At least she¡¯s not complaining anymore. As the cart rolled past the checkpoint, Cragmarr signaled us to slip out. We dropped out of the back of the moving wagon and disappeared into the trees. It was another three days to Ironhaven. * * * We hiked through rolling hills, the landscape gradually shifting as we got closer to our destination. The weather turned, with clouds and occasional light rain. Kyra let her Zephyrwing loose, a pterodactyl with blue and silver feathers. Its wings sliced the sky, leaving a dazzling trail of lights. Kyra changed. She grew quieter, her usual zeal giving way to something more reserved. Her steps became hesitant, and the playful banter since Gilderport faded into an uneasy silence. I tried to draw her out, asking what it would be like to see her brother after all this time. But she dodged my questions, her eyes fixed on the distant horizon. At night, she summoned Ebon and snuggled up to him like a security blanket. She adored that dire wolf, but his snoring sounded like a low growl. I¡¯d sneak him rations now and then to keep things friendly between us. As we reached the top of a hill, Ironhaven Estate came into view. Its towering stone walls blended with the grey sky, surrounded by a thick maze of hedges. MISSION COMPLETE: THE AMAZON PRINCESS Escort Kyra to her brother. LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: II [Bronze] Rank 8 ¡°Well, Kyra¡­ here we are,¡± I said. ¡°I guess this is where we say goodbye?¡± ¡°Will you stay?¡± she asked. ¡°Please, just a little longer. Meet my family?¡± Cragmarr and I exchanged glances. We could feel there was more to her request than she was letting on. ¡°Of course,¡± I said. ¡°We¡¯ll stick around.¡± Instead of the front gate, Kyra insisted we go around the side of the castle. It struck me as odd, and I could tell Cragmarr thought the same. Neither of us questioned her. We followed her along the outer wall, where the stone was weathered and cracked, providing enough footholds to scale. We climbed the wall and dropped into a large, well-tended garden. The garden was lush and vibrant, filled with blooming flowers, neatly trimmed hedges, and the scent of roses. A young man walked through the garden, his nose buried in a scroll. He wore a finely tailored burgundy tunic with silver accents. His resemblance to Kyra was uncanny. ¡°Tavian,¡± Kyra called. The young man looked up, startled by our appearance. His brow furrowed as Kyra approached. ¡°Who¡­ who are you?¡± he asked. ¡°How did you get in here?¡± ¡°It¡¯s me. I¡¯m your sister,¡± she said. ¡°My sister?¡± Tavian blinked. ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t understand. I only have one sister.¡± A girl came running around the corner, her laughter filling the garden. She, too, wore fine noble clothes, her hair styled elegantly¡ªanother spitting image of Kyra. ¡°Tavi! What¡¯s taking you so long? Father¡¯s going to be¡ª¡± She froze, her face draining of color at the sight of us. ¡°Guards! Guards!¡± she screamed. ¡°Calm down Elara!¡± Tavian shouted. ¡°She says she¡¯s our sister. Look at her.¡± ¡°We¡¯re not here to hurt you,¡± I said. More than a dozen guards, wearing suits of armor and swords drawn, surrounded us. ¡°Intruders!¡± a guard barked. ¡°Surrender yourselves.¡± Cragmarr and I loaded our Jingozi cards. ¡°Not gonna happen,¡± I said. ¡°No!¡± Kyra shouted. ¡°Please, everyone, let¡¯s all calm down.¡± Nobody wanted to make the first move. The knights stayed poised as we were prepared to fight our way out. ¡°You should not have come here, Kyra,¡± a voice called. In the distance, a tall, imposing man followed by two stern-faced knights strode toward us. His dark purple robes billowed with each step. Name: Lord Aric [Judgment Dealer] Tier: VI [Platinum] Rank 1 Faction: Emperor [Overlord] * * * Cragmarr and I sat in a large, opulent waiting room. The room was grand, more like a lavish hall than a regular waiting area. The polished marble floors gleamed under the light of crystal chandeliers dangling from the high, arched ceiling. A row of mounted trophies displayed the heads of strange creatures along one wall¡ªtheir glassy eyes staring out, frozen in time. A heated argument occurred in the next room. Kyra¡¯s tone was sharp as she bickered with Lord Aric, who I assumed was her father. The muffled sounds of their clash through the heavy wooden doors were occasionally interrupted by a crash on the floor. Across the room, Tavian and his sister Elara sat on an ornate settee, their eyes fixed on us with curiosity and suspicion. In their fancy outfits, they appeared every bit as spoiled as you would expect. I stood up to explore the room, causing the siblings to recoil. The carved wooden furniture was upholstered in deep, jewel-toned fabrics. The cushions alone were likely worth more than all my Ikea furniture combined. A massive fireplace dominated one wall. Above it hung a large portrait of a very serious-looking man. Yup, that¡¯s Kyra¡¯s father¡ªLord Aric. I returned to my seat and stared at Kyra¡¯s brother and sister. Tavian fidgeted with the buttons on his vest while Kyra stayed perfectly still like a deer in the headlights. ¡°How¡¯s all this possible?¡± I whispered to Cragmarr, tilting my head in their direction. ¡°When Amazons sire children for an Emperor, triplets are always conceived. The Amazons select the strongest daughter to join them while the Emperors raise the others. Those left behind are raised, trained, and groomed as nobles.¡± ¡°Triplets? Every time?¡± ¡°Yes, every time.¡± ¡°So, you¡¯re saying that every Amazon has a set of twin siblings running around?¡± ¡°Not always. Many perish in childbirth.¡± ¡°So, Kyra lied to us. But why?¡± ¡°I believe it was to free herself from her mother, the queen.¡± ¡°Well, if I were cooped up on an island with nobody but female cousins, I¡¯d want out, too.¡± ¡°That is why some Amazon children return to the Emperors, petitioning to rejoin their siblings.¡± The doors to the next room flung open, and Kyra stormed out. She brushed past us without a word. Her father appeared in the doorway. ¡°Please join me for tea,¡± he said. Chapter 36: IRONHAVEN Chapter 36: IRONHAVEN
Kyra¡¯s father was equally impressive and intimidating. Aric, easily a head taller than Cragmarr, filled the doorway with his broad shoulders. His dark hair was streaked with silver, pulled back neatly to reveal a sharp, angular face marked by a few deep lines. But his eyes were mesmerizing, an intense shade of swirling black and violet. I couldn¡¯t stop staring. Aric''s purple robes were embroidered with gold threads. The dark and luxurious fabric fell in heavy folds, brushing the floor as he moved. The clothing was fit for royalty, and every detail was carefully crafted to project power. Despite the richness of his attire, Lord Aric was nothing soft or gentle. His voice was deep and resonant, with a hint of warmth that verged on humility. He led us past a pile of broken vases into another chamber with a crackling fireplace. As we sat, he poured us tea and folded his hands on the table. ¡°Thank you,¡± he began, ¡°for bringing Kyra safely to Ironhaven. She told me who you are and what you did. I can see she¡¯s grown into a remarkable young woman. For that, I¡¯m grateful to you both for her safety.¡± ¡°She can hold her own,¡± I said. ¡°We just came along for the ride¡­ um¡­ my lord?¡± ¡°Aric is fine.¡± ¡°Aric, what are you going to do now?¡± Aric¡¯s gaze dropped before he answered, ¡°I have no choice but to escort her back to Queen Zenobia¡ªher mother. As much as it pains me, I¡¯m powerless in this. Kyra is the princess, the heir to the Amazons. Keeping her here would be considered defiance, even a declaration of war.¡± ¡°But how can you do that to your daughter? She doesn¡¯t want to go back.¡± ¡°Please do not speak to me as if I am ignorant.¡± He sighed deeply and drained his entire cup of tea in one swallow. "I loved Kyra¡¯s mother when she first came to Ironhaven," he said. "She was strong and passionate but wasn¡¯t a queen yet. Everything changed when she ascended the throne¡ªsomething hardened in her. Zenobia became dogmatic, obsessed with the Amazon code above all else." He stood, walking over to the window. "I¡¯ve tried to protect Kyra in the only ways I could. I sent her pets like Ebon¡ªsmall gifts to remind her she was never forgotten. But I kept her a secret from Tavian and Elara, thinking it was for the best. Now, I see how much I¡¯ve failed her. And them." "So what now?" I said. "You¡¯re her father. And you¡¯re going to let her become a baby factory for one of your rich buddies?" "Ember," Cragmarr whispered. Without turning from the window, Aric''s presence shifted. The air grew thick and oppressive. A powerful aura radiated from him, crashing into us like a tidal wave. I gasped for air, my knees buckling as I slid off my seat. Cragmarr fell beside me, his teacup shattering in his hand. My throat tightened, choking me from the inside out, like my chest was collapsing. I tried to speak, but all that came out was a strained gag. Something rose in my throat, and I coughed violently, spitting out a Zii coin onto the floor. Aric kept gazing out the window. The crushing weight lifted. I gasped for air as the Zii coin rolled away. Silence fell over the room, broken only by our ragged breaths and the crackling of the hearth. Aric didn¡¯t move, his gaze still fixed out the window. ¡°Please, forgive us, Lord Aric,¡± Cragmarr rasped. ¡°No, forgive me, Cragmarr. As you know, these are trying times. All you are trying is to protect my daughter¡¯s honor.¡± The room finally stopped spinning. Grabbing my Zii coin, it dissolved into my palm as I climbed back into my chair. ¡°Lord Aric,¡± I coughed. ¡°I don¡¯t have the best relationship with my dad. But I miss him¡ªa lot. I¡¯ve screwed up many things in my life, but I¡¯m now learning I regret that the most.¡± ¡°Why did you agree to bring her here?¡± he asked. ¡°The Emperor territories are unkind to your faction. Kyra told me you had another reason.¡± ¡°I need to find an elf named Jon Deerfoot.¡± ¡°I see,¡± Aric reached into his robes and withdrew a small pouch. With a casual flick, he tossed it onto the table, the sound of coins jingling as it landed. ¡°We¡¯ve done business with them in the past,¡± Aric explained. ¡°You¡¯ll need this if you plan to deal with Jon. But be careful¡ªdon¡¯t trust any of the Deerfoots. They¡¯re dangerous. Jon is the worst of them all.¡± ¡°Thank you, Aric,¡± I said. ¡°Now, you need to leave, both of you. Zenobia would never tolerate your release after what you did. I will arrange a night hunt and be off the grounds. It is your opportunity to escape, but it must look real, or my head will roll alongside yours.¡± ¡°Thank you, Lord Aric,¡± Cragmarr stood and waited for me to do the same. ¡°You have been most gracious.¡± ¡°You can stay in the guest house tonight, but come dawn, you must be gone,¡± Aric said, moving to the door and opening it. NEW MISSION: ESCAPE IRONHAVEN Find a way to escape the Ironhaven estate. * * * I paced in circles in the Jingozi area. ¡°What do you want to do?¡± the voice asked. ¡°Grab Kyra and get the hell away from this damn mess,¡± I said. ¡°You¡¯d be on the run. From two factions.¡± ¡°Well, it¡¯s better than the alternative.¡± ¡°And then what?¡± ¡°Are you saying I shouldn¡¯t do it?¡± ¡°Not at all, Ember. I want you to think it through.¡± ¡°What do you think I should do?¡± ¡°Trust your heart.¡± ¡°You¡¯re not going to tell me, are you?¡± ¡°This decision is up to you. Whatever you choose, you have my support.¡± ¡°That¡¯s something Cragmarr would say.¡± ¡°Yes, I do like him.¡± ¡°What is all this then?¡± I extended my arms and spun in a circle. ¡°You¡¯re this voice that helps me sometimes, but then you leave me high and dry other times? Who are you, or exactly what are you anyway? And no more abstract self-help bullshit.¡±If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. ¡°I am Alphathir. That is my name.¡± ¡°So, you¡¯re like a god?¡± ¡°In a manner of speaking, yes,¡± he paused, but I said nothing. ¡°I am the god to end all gods.¡± ¡°Like the Jingozi?¡± ¡°The Jingozi are not gods. They are a religion. I will destroy that religion and their system.¡± ¡°Man, I cannot take this right now,¡± I huffed. ¡°We can come back to this. What do I do about Kyra?¡± ¡°What do you know you should do?¡± ¡°I have absolutely no idea, which is why I am here.¡± ¡°That is the response of an orphan. You want someone to tell you what to do. I am asking you what you know.¡± ¡°I. Do. Not. Know.¡± ¡°If you did know, what would you say?¡± I wouldn¡¯t admit it, but that was a damn good question. I knew exactly what I needed to do. ¡°This conversation,¡± I said, ¡°is not done. We¡¯re picking it up again ASAP.¡± ¡°I look forward to it. * * * ¡°Why won¡¯t you help me?¡± Kyra cried out, her voice breaking. ¡°I can¡¯t go back to the Amazons! You know what that means for me!¡± Her desperate pleas echoed through the small foyer of the guest house. She stomped back and forth, her frustration growing with each step. Cragmarr and I stood across from her while two knights flanked the door, gripping polearms buzzing with energy. The taser-like weapons, identical to those the Samurai used, were highly effective against Jingozi players¡ªthey disrupted cards. ¡°Kyra, going home is for the best,¡± I said. ¡°It¡¯s where you belong. You¡¯re the princess, the heir. You can¡¯t just be on the run for life.¡± Kyra turned to me, her expression shifting from anger to something more vulnerable. ¡°There¡¯s something you don¡¯t know, Ember. During my Jingozi trials, I met someone¡ªanother apprentice. He¡¯s from the Emperor faction and Tavian¡¯s friend. And¡­ I love him, Ember. I want to be with him.¡± ¡°What the hell, princess? So, all that stuff about your brother was a load of crap?¡± ¡°Would you have helped me if you knew the truth?¡± ¡°That¡¯s not the point. You¡¯re throwing it all away¡ªover a boy?¡± God, I sound like a boomer parent right now. ¡°Yes! I would die for him.¡± ¡°Listen, it isn¡¯t worth it,¡± I took a deep breath. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Kyra, but this isn¡¯t the way.¡± The heavy footfalls of armor marching in unison came from outside. The guards in the room stiffened, raising their charged polearms as Cragmarr peered out the window. ¡°They are coming,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°I count at least four knights and ten guards.¡± Damn, I had assumed that Lord Aric was going to let us slip out in the middle of the night. I guess this was what he meant by making it look legitimate. Let''s put on a good show¡ªif it doesn''t get us all killed, that is. I grabbed Kyra by the hair and pulled her close, whispering, ¡°Play along.¡± Yanking her in front of me, I charged a Jingozi card and held it to her throat. ¡°She has the princess,¡± a guard yelled as they backed to the door. ¡°Stand aside!¡± I shouted. ¡°If you want her to live, you¡¯ll let us go!¡± The door burst open, and we stepped out into the night¡ªKyra still held firmly in my grasp. The courtyard was teeming with guards, their weapons drawn, unsure of what to do. They parted a path for us to walk through. ¡°I swear, I will cut her throat right here,¡± I hissed. ¡°And you can explain to Lord Aric how you let his daughter die!¡± We pushed through the crowd. The guards¡¯ eyes followed our every move, but no one dared try anything. As soon as we cleared the line of soldiers, I embraced Kyra tight. ¡°Sorry, princess,¡± I whispered. With a swift blow to the back of the head, she fell unconscious, slumping through my arms onto the ground. I can¡¯t let you die like Hiro. My next card erupted into a dense cloud of smoke, shrouding us in a thick fog. We bolted, leaving Kyra behind as the ground trembled beneath us. The sound of hooves thundered closer¡ªa squad of knights on horseback burst from the shadows, their energy swords crackling through the night. They charged straight at us. I hurled smoke bomb after smoke bomb, filling the air with an impenetrable haze. Searching for cover, I veered left, sprinting past a structure. As I passed, Cragmarr¡¯s hand shot out, yanking me into a narrow alley between two buildings. He signaled for silence, pulling me into one of the structures, and quietly shut the heavy door behind us¡ªthe moonlight streaming through the windows, revealing old carriages and scattered equipment. We pressed ourselves against the wall, watching through narrow slits in the windows, our breaths shallow as the guards searched for us. The crunch of boots on gravel and the barked orders echoed louder with every step¡ªthey were closing in. It was only a matter of time. I scanned the courtyard outside and spotted a large stable across from us. I nudged Cragmarr, pointing in that direction. ¡°Keep your eyes on that stable,¡± I whispered. ¡°I¡¯ll create a distraction. When the guards are drawn away, sneak out and head for safety. I¡¯ll find you after I escape.¡± Cragmarr frowned, clearly not thrilled with the plan. ¡°I know,¡± I said, ¡°but it¡¯s our best shot. Trust me.¡± He gave a reluctant nod. I blinked through the Jingozi arena, reappearing outside the shadowed structure. Slipping inside, the scent of hay and animal musk hit me first. But instead of horses, rows of hulking beasts filled the stalls¡ªcreatures part rhinoceros, part buffalo. Twice the size of any horse, the heads were rhinos with the bodies covered in shaggy fur like buffalo. Saddled and surprisingly calm, their wide eyes tracked me with mild curiosity. Two of you should do just fine¡­ I heard a snort and a rattle as I worked on untying the knots. In the far corner, a massive cage stood, its iron bars barely holding the beast within. Inside was another rhino-buffalo, but this one was the size of an elephant and had three heads. Its six eyes gleamed with fury, shifting restlessly against the shackle on each leg. I fired cards at the chain bindings, and with a clatter, they fell away. The creature stirred with a snort. Stepping behind the enclosure for cover, I hit it with a fire shot right in the ass. The three-headed beast exploded through the bars with a roar, tearing through the stable¡¯s stone wall. It charged into the courtyard, a living battering ram scattering the guards in a frenzy. They tried to subdue it with their stun weapons, but the electric shocks only enraged it further. The beast trampled everything in its path, sending armored bodies flying. Grabbing the reins of two rhino-buffalos, I swung myself onto one and led them through the new exit in the broken wall. The courtyard was in utter chaos¡ªthe three-headed monster rampaged while the guards scrambled to contain it. I bolted for the carriage house, urging my mount forward. ¡°Cragmarr! Get on!¡± Cragmarr burst out of the carriage house and leaped onto the second rhino-buffalo mid-stride. With a swift kick, we tore through the courtyard. I emptied my deck, smoke bombs bursting everywhere. With a final surge, we crashed through the gate, iron bars splintering as we rode into the night. The chaos behind us faded, the guards too preoccupied to give chase. In the distance, Kyra cried my name. MISSION COMPLETE: ESCAPE IRONHAVEN Find a way to escape the Ironhaven estate. * * * By the time the first light of dawn crept over the horizon, my body was aching with exhaustion from riding all night. Every muscle protested each bounce of the¡­ whatever it was¡­ beneath me, and my hands had gone numb from gripping the reins so tightly. But we couldn''t afford to stop. Not yet. Krya''s voice echoed in my mind, replaying that final warning like a broken record. I couldn''t shake it, and doubt gnawed at my decision. The weight of that choice pressed down on my shoulders, heavier than my fatigue. I hope someday you''ll forgive me Kyra¡­ * * * As the morning sun climbed higher, I signaled for us to stop. The sturdy rhino-buffalos were tireless but deserved a break. Cragmarr pulled up beside me, his expression calm as expected. ¡°What are these creatures called?¡± I asked, patting its neck. The rhino-buffalo rumbled as it grazed. ¡°In the north, they are known as thunderhorns, bred for rough terrain,¡± he said. ¡°But in the south, there is a breed called a tuskwind. Their horns protrude forward like the tusks of the elephants from your world.¡± ¡°How do you know what an elephant looks like?¡± ¡°We have them here in our world, too.¡± ¡°Um, okay. What about those horse robots with six legs? What are those called? ¡°Steed golems. They are enslaved metal golems trapped in a suit of armor.¡± ¡°Well, that sucks.¡± Cragmarr dismounted, producing a Zii coin and feeding it to his thunderhorn. ¡°You¡¯re kidding me. They eat Zii?¡± ¡°Yes. It provides energy and bonds them to their rider.¡± ¡°When in Rome, I guess,¡± I jumped off my thunderhorn and fed it a Zii coin. It nudged me with its leathery snout. ¡°What is our next step?¡± Cragmarr asked. I retrieved the map Valen had given me from my inventory, unfurling it so Cragmarr could see. The parchment was marked with detailed sketches of the terrain, with a clear path leading to a location circled in red. A glowing red heart marked my current location. ¡°This is where we¡¯re going,¡± I pointed to the spot on the map. ¡°Jon Deerfoot¡¯s is here. An elf that knows him marked it for me.¡± Cragmarr studied the map for an extra moment¡ªbrow furrowed in concentration. ¡°We are close,¡± he said. ¡°Only a three-day ride.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± I folded the map and stored it in my inventory. We kicked the thunderhorns back into motion at a brisk yet measured pace. ¡°That was a difficult choice with Kyra,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°I was surprised.¡± ¡°Yeah, me too,¡± I said. ¡°It was a last-minute decision.¡± ¡°How did you choose?¡± ¡°When the Jingozi sends me home, I don¡¯t want to leave my host a fugitive. And as I thought about it¡­ I realized that not every problem is mine to solve. Taikumi taught me that. I need to accept things in this world and not take myself so damn seriously in the process.¡± I glanced at Kyra¡¯s familiar ring¡ªher thoughtful gift to me. ¡°She¡¯ll figure it out¡­ but probably hate me for it.¡± ¡°What is your plan with Jon Deerfoot?¡± ¡°I¡¯m going to punch him in the face until he helps me get to the Emperor faction. There¡¯s a prisoner in Edric¡¯s dungeon¡ªan old man¡ªno idea if he¡¯s even alive. But I can¡¯t shake the feeling that everything¡¯s coming together for a reason. Plus, I need to clear my name.¡± ¡°How?¡± ¡°Well, Crag, I have absolutely no clue. That¡¯s a problem for future Ember.¡± Chapter 37: COMMON Chapter 37: COMMON
I reached out, my fingers brushing against the edge of the floating card¡ªmy next spell. Making contact, the Jingozi arena went pitch black. Kyra appeared, laying on the ground before me. Her face twisted in pain with a swollen belly heaving with the effort of labor. I watched, unable to move, as she struggled, her breath coming in short, ragged gasps. No one else was there¡ªno midwife or doctor¡ªjust Kyra and me. Her cries grew louder, more desperate, until they became screams. The skin of her abdomen split. It was a horrifying sight¡ªa phantom incision. Blood pooled around her, and she stopped screaming. Her eyes went wide with shock, her mouth agape in a silent plea. Three babies crawled out from the gash in her belly. They were small, blue-skinned creatures with sharp claws and empty sockets for eyes. Their tiny, twisted bodies writhed in the blood and fluid. The babies crawled toward me like insects with terrifying speed, their shrill cries piercing my ears. I stumbled back, but they were on me, clawing at my skin, their teeth sinking into my flesh. I fought back, swinging my arms wildly, trying to fend them off. As I struggled, Kyra stood over me, drenched in blood. ¡°This is your fault,¡± she hissed. ¡°You left me. You abandoned me when I needed you most.¡± I shook my head, trying to form words and explain, but nothing came out. I was frozen, helpless under her accusing gaze. My legs buckled, and I fell to my knees. She reached down, her cold hands clamping my head. Her nails dug into my scalp as she squeezed. With a violent yank, she plunged my head into her stomach cavity. ¡°Why did you leave me?¡± she shrieked, her voice piercing my mind as I struggled to free myself. Her grip was a vice. My breath slipped away, my lungs burning as blood rushed down my throat. * * * I awoke on the Jingoz arena floor. ¡°What the fuck was that?¡± I gasped. ¡°Rough visions,¡± the voice said. ¡°It¡¯s never been like that. I couldn¡¯t blink out.¡± ¡°You were trapped.¡± ¡°Trapped by the Jingoz?¡± ¡°No. When you''re here, your visions can only come from me¡ªor you.¡± ¡°So, you¡¯re doing it to me? ¡°I would never.¡± ¡°What, then?¡± ¡°Visions, like the one you just had, occur because you need it¡ªthey¡¯re for you, not me.¡± ¡°What? How is that supposed to help?¡± ¡°Think of it like a warning system.¡± ¡°I can¡¯t just download an app for that or something?¡± ¡°It doesn¡¯t work that way, Ember. There¡¯s always a reason you see what you see. Like there¡¯s a reason you¡¯re here in the first place.¡± ¡°Destiny,¡± I muttered. ¡°If you want to use that word, sure. But I can tell you, from here on in, your visions will become more profound. You should pay attention.¡± ¡°Great, just what I needed. For things to get worse.¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t say that. But I promise that you will get stronger.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll try to remember that next time demon babies are trying to rip my face off.¡± * * * Back on the thunderhorns, I checked my inventory for the new power card. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A POWER CARD Silence I This was a new one and would probably come in real handy by the looks of it.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. We continued to ride. Cragmarr and I decided it would be wiser to approach Jon Deerfoot¡¯s location by daylight. We made camp for the night. On the menu was fire-roasted fish, as usual. We discussed my gift. ¡°I can blink into the Jingozi arena any time if I can concentrate,¡± I explained, flipping a fish. ¡°I can see the world in the reflection of the floor. Since time is frozen here, I can observe, plan my next move, and even load Jingozi cards. I do my Zii-Kata there, so what would take me hours takes a split second.¡± ¡°Impressive indeed.¡± ¡°Because of my last gift evolution, if I can see someone, I can blink so they can see. ¡°Upon your next tier, your power and abilities will increase exponentially again.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve got a feeling I¡¯m going to need it. But there¡¯s one problem with my gift.¡± Cragmarr nodded as I gathered my thoughts. ¡°I¡¯m having visions in the arena,¡± I said. ¡°They¡¯re not real, even though they feel like it. But they¡¯re getting way more intense. They¡¯re like my inner demons or something.¡± ¡°That must be troubling.¡± ¡°But then again, it feels amazing to be there¡ªlike all is right in the world¡ªmy world.¡± ¡°You should do that more often, then. In our faction, we believe in making common sense into common practice.¡± I spent a few moments mulling his words over. ¡°Make common sense, common practice. Crag, you¡¯re pretty wise for a pile of clay and rocks¡ªyou know that?¡± * * * We arrived at an unsettling sight¡ªa vast expanse of land cleared of every tree, leaving countless stumps stretching for miles in every direction. ¡°Well, this wasn¡¯t on the map,¡± I said. A keep stood in the distance, at the center of the vast clearing, still under construction. Workers moved like ants along the outer walls and atop the battlements, their figures small against the stone structure. The drawbridge was down, a heavy, iron-bound barrier surrounded over a thick moat. We stayed hidden in the cover of the woods, crouched low as we scouted the scene. ¡°Can you transport yourself inside?¡± Cragmarr asked. ¡°No. If you can¡¯t see inside, I can¡¯t blink inside. I can¡¯t use the arena to see inside either.¡± ¡°Look over there,¡± he pointed. A young man emerged from the forest, accompanied by a metal demi-golem. The demi-golem was a hulking figure, its limbs glinting in the morning light. ¡°That¡¯s our chance,¡± I said. ¡°We can take them out and assume their places.¡± Cragmarr frowned, his eyes narrowing as he studied the scene. ¡°Something is not right,¡± he said. ¡°A demi-golem would never help a criminal like Jon Deerfoot freely. I do not want to attack until we understand. ¡°Alright. We¡¯ll wait until nightfall. Once it¡¯s dark, I¡¯ll sneak in and see what I can learn.¡± Cragmarr raised his hand, signaling me to be quiet. I followed his gaze¡ªanother group of travelers, followed by another metal demi-golem. A little later, another group approached. We watched until nightfall as more continued entering the keep where Jon was. * * * Pulling on my Ninja mask, I blinked onto the top of the keep¡¯s wall. The night was quiet, and the activity had dwindled to a few patrolling metal Demi-Golems whose footsteps echoed against the stone. I crouched low, moving along the wall. The demi-golems were methodical in their patrols, and I pressed myself against the stone. One passed close by, its metal body more visible in the moonlight. They were like silver mannequins, the size of bodybuilders, carved with runes all over their bodies. But their faces had the same orange marble eyes as Cragmarr. I held my breath, waiting for it to move on. The keep was a maze of corridors and staircases. I ducked into alcoves to avoid Golems making their rounds, their torches lighting their paths. I blinked into the Jingozi arena, hoping to better see the keep''s layout. The familiar obsidian floor materialized beneath my feet, and the aurora-like sky shimmered above as usual. But something felt off. As I tried to focus on the keep, the edges of my vision blurred. A chill ran down my spine. Something was watching me. I turned, scanning the arena''s periphery. There, in the shadows, a figure loomed. It was barely visible, like a smudge on reality itself. My heart skipped a beat as I attempted to zoom in to get a clearer look. The image was distorted, vibrating, and shifting as if made of static. The harder I tried to focus, the more it seemed to resist my efforts. A sense of dread washed over me, growing with each passing second. "Hello?" I called, but there was no response. This wasn''t right. The arena had always been a safe place, a refuge where I could observe and plan. But now? It felt like a trap closing in around me. The shadowy figure seemed to grow, its presence becoming more oppressive. I couldn''t shake the feeling that something terrible would happen if I stayed much longer. My breath came in short gasps. I needed to leave. Now. With a thought, I blinked out of the arena, finding myself back on the keep''s wall. I leaned against the stone, trying to calm my racing heart. Whatever that thing was, it wasn''t supposed to be there. And I did not intend to find out what it wanted. Taking a deep breath, I steeled myself. I''d have to do this the old-fashioned way. Find Jon''s room without the arena''s help. It would be riskier, but it felt safer now than facing that shadowy presence again. I pushed off the wall and navigated through the keep, creeping closer to its heart in search of the master quarters. After dodging a few close calls, I spotted the door to the room at the end of the hall. Pushing open a window, I climbed onto the outer wall. The cool night air brushed my skin as I clung to the stone, inching toward the master chamber. The shutters creaked open, and I slipped inside. The room was dimly lit by smoldering candles, casting flickering shadows on the walls. Jon lay sprawled naked on the large bed, surrounded by three women whose limbs were tangled as they slept. I grabbed Jon by his ponytail and yanked him from the bed. His body hit the cold floor with a dull thud. He had no chance before my knee pressed against his throat. His eyes bulged. Instinctively, Jon loaded his Jingozi hand, but nothing happened. I held up a glowing card just inches from his eye. ¡°Try me, Jon.¡± He understood, his hands hovering in the air. The three women on the bed remained oblivious, lost in their slumber. ¡°Who?¡± Jon gasped. I pulled off my mask. ¡°Ember. What¡­ what do you want?¡± ¡°I have a contract to kill you, Jon. But I''ll reconsider, depending on what you do next.¡± Someone knocked on the door. ¡°Jon, forgive me for interrupting... whatever you¡¯re doing,¡± a voice called from the other side. ¡°Tell them you¡¯re busy,¡± I kept my knee against his windpipe. ¡°I¡¯m¡­ busy. Can¡¯t it wait?¡± Jon croaked. ¡°There¡¯s a late delivery. You¡¯re needed downstairs.¡± One of the women stirred, her eyes fluttering open. She saw me and screamed, the sound piercing the stone walls. The door splintered open as a metal golem guard barreled in, followed by a man with a drawn sword. I yanked Jon up, positioning him as a human shield, and pressed my card against his throat. ¡°Go ahead, see what happens,¡± I said. ¡°I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m fine,¡± Jon sputtered. ¡°Everyone stand down. She¡¯s¡­ an old friend. We¡¯re just¡­ catching up.¡± The metal golem hesitated, its orange eyes darting between me and Jon. ¡°Leave us,¡± Jon said. ¡°I¡¯ll be down when I¡¯m done with her. Now go.¡± After a reluctant nod, the man exited the room, followed by the three women. The Golem retreated last. I kept Jon in my grasp. ¡°Come now, Ember,¡± he said. ¡°You and I both know you¡¯re not going to kill me. You need me for something. So let me put some clothes on¡ªor not¡ªand we can talk over a drink. You can fulfill that contract and kill me after if you¡¯re... unsatisfied. What do you say?¡± Chapter 38: ORPHANS Chapter 38: ORPHANS
Jon donned a plush purple robe and tied a leather belt with compartments around his waist. He led me through the keep. The mess hall was large, with long wooden tables and benches arranged in neat rows. Quiet now, most workers had retired for the night, but a few stragglers shared drinks by the fire. Jon pulled out a bottle of spiced wine from a cabinet. He poured a drink for me, pushing the goblet across the table. ¡°Welcome to the beginning of my empire,¡± he said. He sat down, taking a long sip from his drink. I didn¡¯t touch mine. ¡°The family business is treating you quite well,¡± I said. ¡°It¡¯s not what you think it is.¡± ¡°What is it then? Your family was in the magic oil business. Or did you concoct a lie about that, too?¡± ¡°First, I¡¯ve never lied to you. Next, everybody thinks my family is in the magic oils business. But it¡¯s a cover. We stole the oils and ran black market deals, and I was tired of it. Tired of looking over my shoulder.¡± He paused, swirling the wine in his goblet as if lost in thought. ¡°I¡¯ve done terrible things in my life, things I¡¯m not proud of. But I¡¯m done with that.¡± He looked up, his eyes thoughtful. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll bite,¡± I said, though I didn¡¯t believe him at all. ¡°How does all of this work¡ªmetal Golems as slaves?¡± Jon shook his head, pouring more wine. ¡°Nothing shady. This time, it¡¯s real. I¡¯m building a proper magic oil business with the bounty from the Emperor, but instead of stealing the materials, they¡¯re gathered by adventurers in my employ¡ªmostly orphans who have nothing and no one. I give them a chance to make something of themselves. The Golems naturally want to help. It¡¯s in their nature.¡± He leaned forward. ¡°Come with me. I¡¯ll show you.¡± I studied his face, searching for a tell. * * * We entered a smaller private chamber furnished with a heavy wooden desk cluttered with papers and vials. Jon sat behind the desk while I remained at a distance. The man from before stood by Jon¡¯s side. Jon introduced him as Dorian, his right-hand man, a tall and wiry figure with bushy eyebrows and a long black braided beard. Name: Dorian Whitehollow [Divine Dealer] Tier: II [Bronze] Faction: Emperor [Lord] The metal Demi-Golem, Sentinax, watched from the corner. Name: Sentinax [Divine Dealer] Tier: II [Bronze] Faction: Golem [Demi] A young girl, no older than fourteen, stepped into the room. She carried a small bundle¡ªa flower glowing with soft, ethereal light, its petals glittering with sparkles of blue and violet. ¡°Congratulations, Lucia,¡± Jon said. ¡°You¡¯ve done well. This will make a fine addition to our collection. You look like you could use a proper meal.¡± He handed her a small bag of coins. ¡°Now, get some rest. You earned it.¡± The girl¡¯s face lit up, and with a nod from Jon, she turned to leave. ¡°Lucia,¡± Jon called. ¡°Before you go, my crimson friend here wants to hear your story.¡± Lucia looked up at me with wide eyes. ¡°I was only six when the raiders came to our village,¡± she began. ¡°They burned everything¡ªour homes, the fields, even the old Monk temple where we prayed. My father tried to fight them off, but they cut him down in front of me. My mother¡­ She hid me in a barrel in our cellar and told me to stay quiet, no matter what. I remember her screams when they found her and my big sister. I stayed hidden until the fire drove me out, but by then¡­ everyone was gone. I wandered for days until a family took me in and made me work the pens, feeding their pigs. I lived with pigs, too. Last month, I ran away. Lord Jon took me in and gave me a job with food and a place to sleep. But I still hear my family¡¯s screams at night¡­ and I can¡¯t forget.¡± Without another word, she left the room. Dorian and Sentinax followed her out, the door closing behind them. Jon leaned back in his chair, holding the flower to the light, its glow reflecting in his eyes. I watched the door close behind Lucia. The girl''s story was heart-wrenching, and I believed every word. But something about the delivery felt off, almost rehearsed¡ªfrom Lucia''s timely entrance with the flower to her tragic tale.Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. I glanced at Jon, who was still admiring the flower. His expression flickered between compassion and determination. In poker, when a player exudes strength, they''re usually weak. The opposite was true. In his case, he was¡­ conflicted, and so was I. Still, I decided to give him the benefit of the doubt. After all, even if the presentation was a bit theatrical, it didn''t necessarily mean the underlying cause wasn''t genuine. Maybe Jon really was trying to help these orphans, even if he couldn''t resist turning it into a show. ¡°This flower is called a Loominyara,¡± he explained. ¡°It¡¯s scarce, found only in the depths of certain enchanted forests. Alchemists use it to create some of the most potent magical oils. The kind that can heal wounds, enhance abilities, or even prolong life.¡± He set the flower down on the desk. ¡°I don¡¯t have my full operations up and running yet, but I¡¯m gathering raw materials right now.¡± He turned his gaze back to me. I nodded, choosing to play along for now. Whatever game Jon was playing, I needed his help to reach the Emperor. And if he was actually doing some good along the way, who was I to judge his methods? ¡°Now that business is done, tell me, my dear," he continued. "What do you need with the Emperor? After all, I do owe you for all this good fortune.¡± ¡°I need to know how Edric killed the Shogun.¡± He sat back, contemplating my request. ¡°All right,¡± he said. ¡°Overlord Edric beat the Shogun in a Jingozi match to the death, decreed by the Jingozi.¡± ¡°A fair and square match? He didn¡¯t cheat?¡± ¡°Not at all. But he did have an advantage. At that level, Jingozi matches can last days, even weeks. You become vulnerable if you¡¯re not prepared, in mind and spirit. And if it is a match to the death, well, you get the picture.¡± ¡°Why would the Shogun risk it?¡± ¡°Hubris, my dear. The Shogun was crumbling under the weight of his entire faction. And Edric knew it. The Emperor possessed only a sliver of an advantage, but that¡¯s all he needed. The Shogun was drawn into a fight and fell into the trap because his pride couldn¡¯t resist.¡± ¡°But the Shogun was alive the last I heard.¡± ¡°It¡¯s a fate worse than death,¡± he said. ¡°The Jingozi sent him to another dimension¡ªa purgatory of the soul. The rumor is that the Shogun had been plotting against the Jingozi for some time now.¡± ¡°Then I have no choice. You have to take me to the Emperor.¡± ¡°Edric would have killed you in Raishoto if not for your escape. You¡¯re already hunted as the Shogun¡¯s assassin. Why give him another prize? He¡¯ll hand you over to the Samurai faction as a political pawn or torture and kill you himself to seal his secret.¡± ¡°How do I turn myself in?¡± ¡°And how did that work out for you the last time?¡± ¡°Exactly, and you¡¯re going to say you captured me.¡± ¡°And why in the world would I do that?¡± ¡°Come on, Jon. Think of the reward and how many orphan mouths you can feed while they fetch you flowers.¡± Jon wasn¡¯t as amused as I expected. ¡°Come on, you owe me,¡± I said. He let out a long, heavy sigh, rubbing his temples. ¡°You win, love,¡± he said. ¡°There¡¯s a fishing village due north of here on the river with a broken windmill. Meet me there in three days. I¡¯ll secure your transport to the capital city.¡± ¡°How will I find you?¡± ¡°Oh, my dear, you¡¯ll know when I arrive.¡± ¡°You better be there, Jon, or I¡¯ll come back,¡± I tossed Aric¡¯s bag of coins on the desk. ¡°I¡¯ll see myself out.¡± ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± ¡°Consider it a charitable donation to your cause. Use some of it to get a new bedroom door. Oh, and Seraphina wants you to call her.¡± * * * ¡°Do you trust him?¡± Cragmarr asked. ¡°Hell, no. But I trust the orphans,¡± I said. ¡°I know what it¡¯s like. They''re just pawns. But Jon wouldn¡¯t be going through all the trouble if he wasn¡¯t at least trying to turn a new leaf. At least that''s what I''m telling myself for now.¡± ¡°I see.¡± ¡°Listen, Crag. I have to do this alone. You¡¯re a fugitive, just like me. I won¡¯t risk your life, too.¡± ¡°No, Ember.¡± ¡°Why not?¡± ¡°I am your ward.¡± ¡°Cragmarr, by the power vested in me by the Jingozi, I release you from being my ward. You are absolved of all obligations, starting now.¡± ¡°It does not work like that.¡± ¡°Crag, you said you¡¯d always support me, no matter what.¡± ¡°I did.¡± ¡°Then please trust me and support me now.¡± There was an awkward pause while he thought about it. ¡°I will support you,¡± he nodded. ¡°How will I find you after?¡± ¡°Wait for me at Radiant Temple.¡± He nodded again. ¡°Thanks, Crag. But before I go, show me your Jingozi deck.¡± He untied a large leather belt with a compartment reinforced by metal plates and a lock. Using a Zii coin, he unlocked it and produced a small ornate orange box about twice the size of a pack of poker cards. ¡°I never realized that¡¯s how it worked. Jon wore something similar. But you can''t access your cards if you¡¯re not wearing it, right?¡± ¡°Correct. It must be within reach to summon the cards into your hand.¡± ¡°And your Zii is the key?¡± ¡°Yes, when the compartment is empty, you can attune your Zii to lock and unlock it.¡± ¡°Can I have yours?¡± ¡°I do not understand. You do not need it.¡± ¡°You know that, and I know that, but nobody else knows it unless they¡¯ve watched me use my inventory ability. Nobody pays attention anyway. Everybody always assumes I have deep pockets or something.¡± ¡°True,¡± he handed me the empty belt. I hugged him and climbed onto my thunderhorn. ¡°Thanks, Crag, I¡¯ll see you soon.¡± * * * The landscape blurred by as I rode along the riverbank. I reflected on the orphans I¡¯d met¡ªHikari, Kaito, Sora, and Jon. Fresh in my mind, Lucia reminded me of where I was a lifetime ago. Yet, no stigma was attached to being an orphan in this world. Here, they were warriors, adventurers, and survivors. Something in the vicinity shifted¡ªa slight but undeniable presence. I slowed the thunderhorn to a stop and scoured the area. In the river rainbow colors shimmered and swirled beneath the surface, a translucent shape catching the light like an oil slick. Dismounting, I stepped toward the water, drawn toward the mysterious shape. My feet touched the river¡¯s surface, but it held me up instead of sinking. The surface beneath me was a sheet of solid glass, the current flowing beneath it. Reaching the center, I felt the urge to practice Zii-Kata, except it was a new pattern. LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: II [Bronze] Rank 7 FEAT COMPLETE: EXPLORE THE NEXUS Visit 3 nexus locations. Bonus: Additional rewards are granted for every nexus you find from this point. 4th nexus found: Water Walker FEAT REWARD: WATER WALKER ABILITY Walk on any liquid surface without sinking. The crystalline formation undulated under me, rocking in a mesmerizing rhythm. Then, it suddenly shot downstream in a flash of motion, leaving me atop the flowing water. I strolled across the liquid surface back to shore. This is absolutely incredible. STATUS: Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: II [Bronze] Rank 7 Faction: Ninja [Field] Zii: 100/100 Cards: 36/36 Deck Upgrades: Meta: Defense Attack: - Defense: +2 Buff: - Special: Chapter 39: STAR Chapter 39: STAR
¡°I¡¯m going to name you Usain. See what I did there? Usain Bolt¡­ thunderbolt¡­ and you¡¯re a thunderhorn?¡± Usain snorted and kept chewing grass. ¡°Yeah, I didn¡¯t think so. But it¡¯ll grow on you, I promise. Wait until you meet Kitty. You¡¯re gonna love each other.¡± I lingered at the forest''s edge, the fishing village just within sight, its inhabitants moving about their evening routines. The sun had already begun to set, creating a silhouette of the broken, rickety windmill above the horizon of treetops. I stayed hidden among the trees, choosing to watch rather than enter¡ªeven at this distance, everything smelled like fish. ¡°Alright, my friend, let¡¯s see if this works.¡± I extended the familiar ring I bought from the merchant in Raishoto. Usain disappeared into it with a soft, light shimmer. The ring vibrated with energy on my finger, reassuring Usain was stored away and safe. I found a spot and settled in for the night, gazing at the stars. * * * Something told me to blink into the Jingozi arena. I¡¯d never fully appreciated the spectacle of the arena sky, yet here I was, admiring the view. It was nice to come here to relax for a change. Straight above, I found the brightest star¡ªthe North Star. ¡°How does the North Star work here?¡± I asked the voice. ¡°It marks your entry point where you left your physical form so you can return.¡± ¡°Sure, but why stars? Why not an X on the floor? A mini-map, even.¡± ¡°You¡¯d be amazed at the knowledge in those stars. The stars share a language¡ªa star song in every world.¡± ¡°So, it¡¯s the same stars everywhere?¡± ¡°Not exactly, no. But stars tell stories, all connected if you take the time to look. Stories are made up of words. and we live in those words.¡± ¡°You mean we live with those words? Like we live with our stories?¡± ¡°No, Ember. We live in our words. That¡¯s where your power comes from. The Jingozi understand this, and that¡¯s why they¡¯re afraid.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t get it.¡± ¡°You must.¡± ¡°Can¡¯t you just explain it to me?¡± ¡°It doesn¡¯t work that way. I don¡¯t work that way. Just know that the words you use here and those you use with the Jingozi matter. They have the power to create and destroy.¡± ¡°Oh,¡± I took a few more moments to gather my thoughts. I¡¯d lose myself and the mission if I stewed on this any longer. So, I¡¯d have to settle for this to be one of those ¡°to be continued¡± conversations. Yet something in me stirred. ¡°I¡¯m going to the Emperor.¡± ¡°I see that.¡± ¡°I¡¯m scared.¡± ¡°I know, Ember.¡± ¡°What do you think?¡± ¡°I think you¡¯re courageous¡ªjust stay focused on your North Star.¡± * * * I must have dozed off. The morning light filtered through the branches, and the village buzzed with activity. Shouts and cheers broke the morning calm. I sat up, peering through the trees to see what the commotion was about. A crowd gathered at the edge of the village, their excitement palpable. Jon Deerfoot strode into the village with the usual smug grin. The villagers flocked to him as he handed out coins like a hero throwing a parade. Dorian and Sentinax remained up the road, scanning the crowd from afar. ¡°Lord Jon! Lord Jon!¡± the village cheered. I pulled my hood down and blinked behind a building past the crowd. Slipping through the gaps between villagers, I found a spot in Jon¡¯s view. When he spotted me, he motioned to a nearby shack. The shack was small and sparsely furnished, with the smell of dried herbs and smoke from a small fire burning in the corner. Jon pressed a coin into a fisherman''s hand, who stood with his wife and child. He gave another coin to the child and tousled the boy¡¯s hair. They left the shack, closing the door behind them. ¡°You¡¯ll wait here,¡± Jon said. ¡°This village is a usual stop for a prisoner caravan. It shouldn¡¯t be long now.¡± ¡°Are you a local celebrity or something?¡± I asked. ¡°Of course, why wouldn¡¯t I be?¡± He gave me his signature smirk. I rolled my eyes as usual. * * * After a full day, there was no prisoner caravan. ¡°Don¡¯t fret, my dear. It will be here,¡± Jon said.The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. I played with my fish stew. ¡°I¡¯ve been meaning to ask,¡± he pulled up a chair. ¡°You had a contract to end my life. Was that true or a ploy to scare me?¡± ¡°It¡¯s true. Valen says hello.¡± ¡°You did say contract, correct?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°A Jingozi contract?¡± ¡°I think so.¡± ¡°Ember,¡± he sighed. ¡°What did you do?¡± ¡°What do you mean? People break contracts all the time. It¡¯s not like I wrote it in blood.¡± ¡°It might as well have been. When you break a Jingozi contract, it reverses onto you.¡± ¡°Meaning?¡± ¡°You become the target, and the contract can be sold to another Jingozi apprentice or higher tier. They can track you using the scroll and claim the bounty.¡± ¡°Valen didn¡¯t mention that.¡± ¡°Of course, he didn¡¯t,¡± Jon shook his head. ¡°My stepbrother is a snake.¡± ¡°Whatever. I¡¯ve got bigger problems right now, Jon.¡± ¡°Well then, love,¡± he said, peering out the window. ¡°They¡¯re about to get bigger. It¡¯s here, let¡¯s get ready.¡± Pulling my cloak tighter around me, I stood up and tossed my leftover soup into the fire. I think I¡¯m done with fish. The sounds of hooves and wheels rumbling into the village grew louder. ¡°We need to make this look convincing,¡± Jon said, passing me a bundle. ¡°All your weapons, please, and put this on.¡± I unbuckled Cragmarr¡¯s card belt and placed it in his hand. ¡°Turn around,¡± I said, sizing up the dusty tunic he wanted me to wear. ¡°That¡¯s not fair,¡± he said. ¡°You¡¯ve seen me¡ª" ¡°Just do it, Jon.¡± He sighed and faced the wall. I changed outfits and stored the Ninja kimono and the rest of my gear in my inventory. ¡°Okay, done,¡± I put my cloak back on. ¡°Follow my lead,¡± he turned back to me, holding a thick rope. After binding my wrists, we stepped into the street. Dorian and Sentinax stood in the street. Jon signaled for them to step aside. The wagon was parked near the well, where two guards in chainmail watered horses and gathered supplies. Their uniforms were dirty, and their expressions were apathetic, uninterested in anything other than their routine. Jon approached, tugging the rope to have me follow. ¡°I have a prisoner that needs transport,¡± Jon said, his voice smooth and casual. The nearest guard, a stocky and ugly man, didn¡¯t even look up. ¡°The wagon¡¯s full,¡± he grunted, dismissing Jon with a wave. Jon reached into his pocket and pulled out two Jingozi tokens, holding them up just enough for the guards to see. Their eyes snapped to attention, and they pocketed the tokens without a word. One of the guards glanced back at the wagon, nodding to his partner. They both turned and yanked open the door to the cart. The first prisoner was a filthy, frail old man inside, wearing a burlap prison uniform. The guard closest to him pulled out a knife and slit the old man¡¯s throat. Bile rose in my throat as the old man¡¯s lifeless body was unceremoniously dumped onto a pile of nets. The guards turned back to Jon, nodding in approval as they wiped the blood from their hands. Village onlookers didn¡¯t make a single sound. ¡°Come on,¡± one motioned for me. I was shoved into the wagon, the door slamming behind me with a metallic clang. The interior was dark, boxed in on all sides except for a few narrow slits. But the stench¡ªsweat, filth, despair¡ªwas so thick I felt nauseous. Eleven other prisoners, covered in grimy tatters, slumped against the wooden walls. I could only assume how long and grueling a journey they endured. I avoided their gazes. Through the slits, I could hear the conversations outside, muffled but clear enough. ¡°I¡¯ll join you,¡± Jon said. ¡°I must say, it¡¯s been a while since I rode. We can take shifts.¡± There was no reply except the creak of the wagon as we set off, the wheels grinding against the dirt road. * * * The ride in the back of the wagon was rough. Every bump and jolt sent shudders through the cramped, dark space, and the oppressive heat made breathing a challenge. It didn¡¯t take long to realize my wagon mates weren¡¯t hardened criminals. They were regular folks¡ªshopkeepers, farmers, and tradesmen¡ªlocked up for petty offenses that barely deserved a slap on the wrist. Agnes, a gray-haired woman with a kind face and weathered hands, told me she¡¯d been locked up for stealing a loaf of bread to feed her grandchildren. Then, there was Finn, a skinny young man with a quick smile, who¡¯d been caught fishing without a permit. And Garret, a burly blacksmith whose only crime had been defending his neighbor in a brawl. Their resentment and fear faded as they spoke. They¡¯d been mistreated, beaten, and starved, their spirits almost broken¡ªalmost. Despite everything, they still smiled, joked, and welcomed me into their little circle. ¡°You don¡¯t belong here,¡± Agnes said. ¡°You¡¯re not like us.¡± ¡°Maybe not, but I¡¯m here now.¡± I met her gaze in the dim light. Over the next few days, I practiced my healing. I mended broken bones, treated infections, and took care of some nasty gashes on Garrett¡¯s back. Each time, they looked at me with awe, their gratitude clear in their eyes. ¡°Thank you,¡± Finn whispered. ¡°Just promise me one thing,¡± I said. ¡°Don¡¯t say a word to the guards or even that elf out there. This stays between us.¡± They all agreed, their expressions solemn. Occasionally, rotten vegetables were tossed into the wagon. The others scrambled to gather what little they could stomach. I handed out rations instead. Jon passed waterskins through the window slits when he could. And I discovered the metal flasks looted from the Amazons were filled with mead¡ªa surprise for everyone. It wasn¡¯t much, but enough to keep their strength up for a bit of hope. As the days passed, the wagon rattled along. I taught them the meditation I¡¯d learned at Thunder Temple. By the time we reached our destination, the change in the prisoners was undeniable. When the wagon door swung open, the guards were stunned. They expected to find a group of sickly, half-dead prisoners, barely able to stand. Instead, they were met with rejuvenated faces. The guards exchanged confused glances, unsure of what to make of it. Jon gave me an inquiring look. But he didn¡¯t say a word, and neither did I. ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± the guard snarled. ¡°You lot are supposed to be the walking dead. Not looking like you just came from the pub!¡± He marched over to Agnes. ¡°Think you¡¯re better than us, old woman?¡± he spat, raising his baton. ¡°Let¡¯s see how you handle this!¡± The baton fell hard on Agnes¡¯s back. She crumpled to the ground with a cry of pain. Without thinking, my foot connected with the guard¡¯s groin. He doubled over with a grunt, his baton clattering to the ground. I slipped behind him, using the ropes around my wrists to choke him, planting my knee in his back. The other guard drew his sword, unsure of what to do. Jon intervened, standing between us. ¡°I think he¡¯s had enough, my dear... please let him go.¡± He turned to the armed guard. ¡°And you, stand down. That will not be necessary.¡± I loosened my grip on the guard, shoving him away. He rolled forward, coughing and gasping, his face red with humiliation. But he wasn¡¯t done. ¡°She¡¯s a bloody prisoner,¡± he said. ¡°She should be put in her place.¡± ¡°I said, stand down,¡± Jon said. ¡°I can always drag you in front of Overlord Edric, and you can explain how you let a girl best you. Now, escort the group to the holding pen.¡± They exchanged a stubborn look but complied. Still struggling to breathe, the guard gave me one last hateful glare before returning Agnes to her feet. I moved to help her, but Jon shook his head. We were ushered to a large holding pen, a crude enclosure surrounded by tall wooden spikes. Other prisoners milled about inside. We were herded through the gate like cattle. I gave Agnes, Finn, and Garret a final smile of encouragement. Jon stepped in as a guard reached for my ropes. ¡°Not this one, my friend,¡± he said. ¡°This poor soul is due for an audience with the Emperor Overlord himself.¡± * * * I sat in a holding cell, waiting for the inevitable summons. A rat skittered across the floor. Compared to the Samurai prisons, this place was disgusting. The door opened, and Jon appeared, his expression neutral. He turned to shake hands with a guard in the hall, no doubt palming him a coin, and closed the door. ¡°Nice place,¡± he said. ¡°Could use some art to liven it up.¡± ¡°Oh, I¡¯m fine, Jon. Thanks for asking.¡± ¡°My sincerest apologies, my lady,¡± he said with a curt bow. ¡°Please forgive my lack of etiquette.¡± ¡°Jon, I need a favor.¡± His eyebrow arched. ¡°There¡¯s an old man in the dungeon,¡± I said. ¡°Well, at least there should be unless he¡¯s dead. He looks like a Samurai, but there¡¯s something unique about him. His eyes¡ªthey¡¯re different. I need to know if he¡¯s there.¡± ¡°What are you not telling me?¡± ¡°I just need to know. But I don¡¯t know why, exactly. Please, Jon.¡± ¡°Alright, Ember, I¡¯ll see what can be done.¡± Chapter 40: NO Chapter 40: NO
¡°It¡¯s time, prisoner.¡± Two guards escorted me out of the cell, and we passed Jon in the hallway. He caught my eye with a subtle nod¡ªa signal. He¡¯d found the old man. I tackled Jon to the floor, wrapping my rope bindings around his neck. Sorry Jon, you did say we need to make this look convincing. ¡°You mother fucker!¡± I shrieked. ¡°I¡¯d leave this city right now if I were you! You hear me? Leave right now!¡± The two guards dragged me back, kicking and screaming. Jon played along, acting stunned. ¡°Get that wench away from me,¡± he hissed. As the guard dragged me backward down the hall on my heels, I mouthed, ¡°Thank you.¡± Jon winked with a tip of his hat. The guards pushed me through the double doors, revealing a vast throne room. Inside, the light filtered through tall, stained-glass windows. But the smell was unmistakable¡ªEdric¡¯s God-awful cologne, or whatever the hell it was. The guards flanked me, and the doors closed behind us with a resounding thud. The throne at the far end was larger-than-life¡ªalmost comically so¡ªdraped in deep purple and gold, with a seated Edric. ¡°Welcome to Emperia,¡± he said, rising to his feet. ¡°Or shall I say, welcome back?¡± The guards shoved me forward as Edric descended the marble steps. ¡°Ember, my child, the Samurai have been desperate to find you, only to be outplayed again.¡± He was as I remembered¡ªexcept for two differences. His eyes were blacker and smoldered with longer wisps of purple smoke. And the overpowering scent of his cologne was worse¡ªway worse. But I was still missing something. I blinked into the Jingozi arena for a better look. Zooming in revealed the faintest trace of scarring along Edric¡¯s jaw, like a hairline fracture in ancient porcelain¡ªbarely visible unless you knew to look. Wait a second, is he wearing makeup? The scar, the makeup, the overpowering cologne¡­ was all too much, too deliberate. Edric was hiding something. I once saw a documentary about how morticians prepped bodies for funerals. They shared the tricks of the trade¡ªhow to mask the signs of decay and paint life back onto a corpse¡ªthe embalming, the heavy scents, the careful application of cosmetics to hide the truth. It all made sense now. He¡¯s dying, or worse¡ªalready dead¡ªrotting. I blinked back into the throne room. ¡°I know you did it,¡± I said. ¡°Me?¡± Edric said. ¡°You were there, and so were the Jingozi. You killed the Shogun.¡± ¡°Of course I did, girl. Something impossible for you. But they needed someone to blame. I thought the spike in the eye was a nice touch. Would you not agree?¡± ¡°Why not take the credit?¡± ¡°What would I gain from an outright war between our factions? Why, when I can conquer them by destroying them from the inside? Besides, it is much more entertaining this way.¡± I stood in silence. ¡°But you, my dear Ember, such a daring escape. That is why you are not dead¡ªyet. I want to propose an alliance. Join the Emperor faction so I can put your talents to better use and show you true power.¡± ¡°No.¡± ¡°Ember, I am giving you a chance to live. But more than that, this is your chance for more wealth and glory than even the Jingozi offer.¡± ¡°No.¡± Edric stood there, blinking. ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Edric?¡± I asked. ¡°I take it you don¡¯t hear that word very often.¡± I caught the tiniest of tells¡ªa snarl that curled the corner of his mouth for a split-second. He extended his hand, and a guard stepped forward with Cragmarr¡¯s Jingozi card belt. ¡°When a Jingozi apprentice loses their deck, they lose everything,¡± he traced the belt with his finger. ¡°But I have learned there is so much more to lose.¡± He extended his palm to me. ¡°Give me one of your Zii.¡± ¡°No.¡± ¡°Girl, I do not think you¡ª¡± ¡°No, no, and before you ask again, no.¡±Stolen story; please report. We locked eyes. ¡°Very well then,¡± he looked away. ¡°You will either join me or give me your power and die. It appears your life has come full circle.¡± * * * Edric was right. I¡¯d come full circle, right back to where I started. The same dungeon, dark and cold, the same stench of mold and decay. My wrists, once again, aching from the ropes suspending me in the cell. The same rough burlap sack scratched against my skin. I focused on breathing and staying calm, knowing what was next. Heavy, deliberate footsteps made my heart pound. The door opened as Edric and two guards entered. The Emperor circled me for an inspection. I felt his eyes all over me. ¡°Do you know why I do not simply flay the flesh from your bones?¡± he asked. ¡°When you have power like mine, you lose a certain touch with the visceral reality of pain. It gets rather dull. There is something so irresistible about doing things with your bare hands.¡± My heart felt like it was about to explode. ¡°Just get this over with, you son of a bitch,¡± I hissed. ¡°My my, when did you become so brave? I must say, it is a far cry from the scared little girl the last time you entertained me.¡± ¡°I¡¯d say die and go to hell, Edric. But by that smell, I¡¯m guessing you¡¯re halfway there already.¡± Edric stepped forward and delivered a hard punch to my stomach. I bit the inside of my cheek, tasting blood. AUTO DODGE UNAVAILABLE He struck me harder. I blinked into the Jingozi arena and practiced Zii-Chi meditation as the Monks taught me. The pain in my mind cleared. Blinking back, physically, I felt no relief. Mentally, I was prepared to repeat the process for as long as it took. I will not fold. Go ahead, you fucking asshole. ¡°Beat her,¡± the Emperor snarled. ¡°Make her scream.¡± The first fist collided with my ribs, followed by a second blow from the other. They rained punches from every angle. I clamped my jaw shut, refusing to cry out. Every time I blinked in and out, his expression became more furious. Come on, Em, you almost have him. I lost track of how long the beating lasted. Reality blurred as the Jingozi arena and the cell became one in my mind. ¡°You got this, Ember,¡± the voice said, ¡°Stay courageous.¡± ¡°It hurts,¡± I cried. ¡°I know.¡± ¡°Enough!¡± Edric shouted. The guards stepped back, rubbing their knuckles through their gloves. The Emperor grabbed a handful of my hair and forced me to meet his eyes. ¡°Take the night to reconsider,¡± he said. ¡°But tomorrow, the real pain begins, starting with that pretty little face of yours.¡± They exited the room, one after another. I meditated using Zii-Chi for a few more moments. Move Ember. Just move. With a flick of my wrist, I loaded my Jingozi hand and threw a card that spun around the room. It sliced the rope, freeing my arm. I cut the rest of my bindings with the knife from my inventory. NEW MISSION: DUNGEON ESCAPE Escape the Emperia dungeons. I collapsed onto the floor, blood spilling from my mouth. Reaching into my inventory, I pulled the healing herbs looted from the Amazons. Kyra explained in Gilderport that I could boost the healing effects with Zii. They were like tea bags, and I swallowed three packets after infusing each with a Zii coin. The pain dulled, but the damage was done. It would have to do for now. I searched for the grate on the floor to escape¡ªexcept it wasn¡¯t there this time. Shit. Crouching low, I eased the door open, barely a crack. Peeking down the hall, two guards stood at the far end, chatting away. I blinked into the Jingozi arena and walked through the dungeon. In the reflection, I followed the hallway with the guards. Three other closed-door rooms were next to mine¡ªlikely more interrogation chambers. As I turned the corner, two more stationed guards came into view. Further down were twenty barred cells. I inspected each one for occupants¡ªmost were sleeping or unconscious. This part of the dungeon was dedicated to long-term prisoners. After eleven cells, I found the old man. He sat with his back against the wall, but his head was tilted upward as if staring into a security camera, knowing someone was watching. The reflection on the floor amplified his eyes, glowing with fire. NEW MISSION: THE PRISONER Rescue the mysterious prisoner from the Emperia dungeons. Based on the available lines of sight, blinking into the old man¡¯s cell wouldn¡¯t work, so I returned to mine. I changed into my Ninja suit and checked my hand. Blinking behind the two closest guards, I struck each with a card to the back of the head. Stunned, they crumpled without a sound. I caught them, easing their bodies to the floor. The door to the nearest interrogation chamber was unlocked. Inside, a muscular Amazon hung from ropes attached to the ceiling. A mess of bruises and open wounds covered her body. Dragging the guards¡¯ bodies into the cell, my sides screamed in protest. A quick check confirmed that the Amazon was dead. I had no time to check the other interrogation rooms. Rounding the corner, I fired two more cards. The guards had no chance, their bodies hitting the ground before they knew what happened. With the path clear, I sprinted to the old man¡¯s cell. The lock shattered from another card, and I rushed in. Name: Katorro Hoshizaki [Arch Dealer] Tier: 7 [Obsidian] Rank ??? Faction: Ninja [Mystic] Holy shit. He was alive¡ªbarely¡ªhis body frail and emaciated. I infused a healing packet with Zii, placed the herbs in his mouth, and gave him a sip from a waterskin. His breathing steadied slightly. ¡°Nice to meet you, Mr. Katorro Hoshikazi. Let¡¯s get the hell out of here.¡± Lifting him over my shoulder, we stepped out of the cell. A voice called out from across the hall. An older elf stood at the bars. ¡°Please, don¡¯t leave me here,¡± he said. A card flew from my hand, smashing open the lock on his door. I flung my strongest card, charged with 2 Zii, at the small window at the end of the hall. The explosion rumbled through the dungeon, blowing the wall open enough for an escape. The shouts of guards sounded the alarm. With Katorro in tow, I sprinted toward the gaping hole in the wall. But I hesitated at the last moment, my momentum almost sending the old man through the gap. My stomach lurched¡ªa steep drop plunged into the dark waters far below. Bracing myself, I leaned out and looked up. The wall was built into the side of a cliff, and we were about halfway down. AUTO DODGE: SUCCESSFUL Card Discarded [2/4] 50% Three guards fired crossbows behind me. I twisted my body instinctively, feeling the rush of air as an arrow skimmed past my sleeve close enough to tear the fabric, but the other two bolts sank deep into Katorro''s back with sickening thuds. His frail body jerked violently with the impact, a pained gasp escaping his lips. I whipped out a card from my dwindling deck and fired it behind us. It exploded into a thick, choking cloud of gray smoke that would buy us precious seconds. But in that moment of distraction, my foot caught on a jagged piece of rubble. The world tilted as we lost our balance, our bodies pitching forward into the star-filled night sky, the dark waters below rushing up to meet us. Chapter 41: CHAMPION Chapter 41: CHAMPION
Sitting on the Jingozi arena floor, my mind raced, gauging the distance of the fall, the potential impact, and the water below. Thanks to my gift, time was on my side, so I checked my hand. Hand: [Silence I] [4/7] [2/2] [Shade Strike] [6/6] 1/5] I considered cycling my deck for an [Evolve] spell. But I thought against it because I was low on cards, and the chance of it being at the bottom of my deck was too risky. If I ran out of cards now, it would be a disaster. My next consideration was my water walker ability. Would it turn the surface into concrete? I wasn¡¯t in a hurry to find out. I laid on my back to check the North Star. ¡°Hey, thanks for the assist back there, Alpha,¡± I said. I was still getting used to the voice having a name. ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m here for, Ember," he replied. "How¡¯s your plan going?¡± ¡°I guess it¡¯s going alright, considering I¡¯m literally flying by the seat of my pants right now.¡± ¡°Well, you know what they say about the best-laid plans,¡± he chuckled. Blinking back, I timed the fall as we hurtled toward the depths below, firing a max-charged [4/7] explosive shot card with [Shade Strike] into the water at the last second. The explosion surged upward, ripping through the water and shattering the surface tension. Twisting my body so Katorro was on top of me, I held onto him tight. We plunged into the ice-cold water, the frigid shock seizing my muscles. I felt a force launch me back out of the water like a beach ball and onto my feet. The old man sank, but I had grabbed the rope around his waist before impact. He floated with my help. Something hit the water beside us with a sudden smack. Straining to see below the surface by moonlight, the motionless shadow didn¡¯t appear to be a guard. I blinked into the Jingozi arena to zoom in. It was the elf. Blinking back, arrows rained from above, falling short and wide, splashing into the water. It was too dark to see us, but I tossed a smoke bomb for some cover anyway. I ran with Katorro¡¯s limp body over my shoulder for the nearest shore. MISSION COMPLETE: DUNGEON ESCAPE Escape the Emperia dungeons. MISSION COMPLETE: THE PRISONER Rescue the mysterious prisoner from the Emperia dungeons. FEAT COMPLETE: CHAMPION Discover your champion. LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: II [Bronze] Rank 6 Champion¡ªthis guy? It made no sense. How was this frail old man supposed to be my champion? He could barely stand, let alone put up a fight. We reached the shore, the dark pebbled sand stretching before us as the waves crashed against the beach. I stumbled forward, Katorro¡¯s weight growing heavier on my shoulder. My muscles burned, my breath came in ragged gasps, and we were drenched from head to toe. With shivering hands, I extended my familiar ring, summoning Usain. He appeared in a shimmer of light, chewing grass like no time had passed. I draped Katorro over the saddle, the two arrows still lodged in his back and climbed behind him. ¡°Go, Usain,¡± I whispered, and the thunderbolt took off, churning up the sand. I kept glancing over my shoulder, half-expecting a pursuit. Katorro¡¯s breaths were shallow, with no idea how much blood he¡¯d lost. Hypothermia wasn¡¯t out of the question either. My Zii was too low to do much, but I couldn¡¯t leave him like this. Taking a deep breath, I yanked the first quarrel from his back. His body jerked, his breathing growing more labored. I pressed a Zii coin against the wound and focused, channeling what little I had left to stop the bleeding. I repeated the process with the second quarrel. We rode through the night, Usain keeping pace as I used every drop of Zii I could spare to keep Katorro alive. My ring of regeneration gave me 1 Zii every five minutes, but the effort drained me. The fatigue weighed heavier with each Zii spent, but I couldn¡¯t stop.This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there. By dawn, Katorro¡¯s breathing had steadied, and the wounds were closed. But he was still unconscious. I slumped against Usain, completely spent. * * * We couldn¡¯t push any further. Scanning the tree line, I searched for a place to stop and spotted a small clearing hidden from the shore. It was quiet, shielded by a thick ring of foliage. Sliding off Usain, I lifted Katorro from the saddle and laid him down in the soft grass after wrapping him in my Ninja scarf. His breathing remained shallow but steady¡ªan improvement. Kneeling beside him, I tipped a waterskin to his lips, letting water trickle down his throat. His eyelids fluttered but didn¡¯t open. Usain wandered off, grazing on the sparse grass. I lit a fire small enough to avoid drawing attention while keeping us warm. Tearing into a ration, I chewed the dried meat while staring into the flames. The fire¡¯s crackle was soothing, lulling me closer to sleep. ¡°Hey, Usain. Keep a watch out, okay?¡± Sleep overtook me. When I woke, the fire had burned down to smoldering ashes, the clearing bathed in afternoon light. Katorro wasn¡¯t where I left him. I scrambled to my feet and found him slumped against a tree a few feet away, still wrapped in the scarf. I hurried over and lifted him back onto Usain, securing him. After feeding Usain a Zii coin, we set off again. I checked the map. Jon Deerfoot¡¯s keep was too far out of the way. Radiant Temple was closer¡ªjust a few days¡¯ ride. With luck, Cragmarr would be there. I stowed the map and urged Usain to pick up speed. * * * It was a cloudy night, almost pitch black, beyond our fire''s small circle of light. Usain grazed at the edge of the clearing. Katorro, bundled again, lay beside the fire, still unconscious but stable. The crackling flames were the only sound in the quiet night. Something gnawed at the back of my mind¡ªI couldn¡¯t shake it. I glanced around the clearing, trying to scan through the brush, but it was too dark. We are not alone. The unease grew stronger. I stood, careful not to disturb Katorro, crept toward the edge of the fire¡¯s light, and peered into the darkness. There¡ªon the edge of my vision, something shifted. It was too deliberate to be the wind or a passing animal. We were being watched. Without any moves, I blinked into the Jingozi arena long enough to scan the surrounding area. The arena¡¯s magic amplified my senses, allowing me to see further into the reflection on the Jingozi floor. A figure lurked in the trees, watching us from a distance. But the image was distorted somehow, no matter how much I zoomed. How long had it been watching us? ¡°Hey, Alpha,¡± I said. ¡°Do you see what I¡¯m seeing?¡± No answer. Blinking back into the clearing, I took a deep breath and loaded my Jingozi cards. Circling back toward the fire, I pretended to tend to it while keeping my senses trained on the figure in the trees. My mind raced with possibilities¡ªfriend or foe? An enemy sent by the Emperor faction? A bandit? Jingozi? Or something else entirely? The figure remained still. ¡°I know you¡¯re there,¡± I called out. Whoever it was, they were gone. I turned as Katorro awoke. He stared straight ahead without focus, yet his eyes were glowing with life. ¡°I know you,¡± he said. His voice was weak and raspy. ¡°My name is Ember,¡± I said, propping him up. ¡°We met once before. We were prisoners together.¡± ¡°Children¡­ where are the children?¡± ¡°In the dungeon? I didn¡¯t see any.¡± ¡°Take me to¡­¡± his voice trailed off, lost in thought. I pulled out a ration and offered it to him. ¡°Not hungry,¡± he said, not looking at me. Wait, is he blind? I held a waterskin up and off to the side. Without looking, he reached for it effortlessly, took a sip, and handed it back to me. We sat in silence. Well, at least he¡¯s not gonna die on me. ¡°How are you¡­ my champion?¡± I asked. He was fast asleep. * * * Katorro rode behind me on Usain, his slight frame pressed against my back. It felt like carrying a child. And despite the million questions swirling in my mind, I knew better than to push him to talk. The path ahead descended into a ravine, a shortcut that would shave a day off our route to Radiant Temple. The ravine walls were steep and jagged, with rocks jutting out in rows like shark teeth. As we rounded a bend, Katorro tensed behind me. ¡°Stop,¡± he whispered. I pulled Usain to a halt and scanned the path. ¡°What is it?¡± I asked. ¡°Look,¡± he pointed in front of us. It took me a moment to see it¡ªa nearly invisible translucent thread stretched across the path. I blinked into the Jingozi arena, my senses amplifying as I explored the surrounding area. A spider with a body the size of an SUV hid high in the overhanging rocks. But this was no regular arachnid. Its body was made of dark gnarled tree vines, twisted and contorted into a grotesque form. Eight glowing orange eyes stared out from the mass, and two fangs dripped with a black tar-like substance. Blinking back, I backed Usain up. The thunderhoof sensed the same danger and snorted. ¡°What is that thing?¡± I asked. ¡°Demon.¡± The detour pushed us to where the walls were less steep, and the path opened again. * * * We spent the last night in the ravine. Katorro managed to find his appetite and finished a ration. Despite those intense, fiery eyes, he was still beyond frail. He also refused to answer any questions¡ªignoring anything I asked. At dawn, we emerged from the ravine, the harsh terrain giving way to a more open landscape. To my relief, the spire of the Radiant Temple stood in the distance. ¡°A nexus,¡± Katorro said. ¡°Yes, sir," I didn''t hide my relief. "Hang on, we¡¯re almost there. Let¡¯s go, Usain! Mush!¡± Usain rumbled to the temple at top speed. The gates were open, revealing Master Xiang and Cragmarr standing to greet us. I lowered Katorro from Usain¡¯s back, careful not to jostle him too much. Then I ran toward Cragmarr, throwing my arms around him. ¡°Did ya miss me, Crag?¡± I asked. ¡°I am glad you are safe, Em,¡± he nodded. After bowing to Master Xiang, I turned back toward Katorro, ready to introduce him. ¡°Cragmarr, Master Xiang, this is¡ª¡± ¡°Katorro Hoshizaki,¡± a voice interrupted behind us. ¡°Sora?¡± I blinked in surprise. She stepped out behind the gate in a full Ninja suit with the hood down. ¡°Master Katorro,¡± she bowed. ¡°We thought you were lost.¡± ¡°I was, and I am,¡± he replied. ¡°I¡¯ll take Katorro for healing and care,¡± she said, moving to his side, supporting him as she led him away. I watched them go. Cragmarr placed a hand on my shoulder, and I forced a smile. ¡°Welcome back, Ember,¡± Master Xiang said. ¡°The Radiant Temple is in your debt. ¡°I¡¯m just glad you¡¯re all okay,¡± I said. ¡°When did Sora get here?¡± ¡°She was here when I arrived,¡± Cragmarr said. ¡°That man¡­ Kotarro¡­ he¡¯s my champion.¡± ¡°I am confused." ¡°So am I, Crag. So am I.¡± Chapter 42: LEAVING Chapter 42: LEAVING
The power card hovered just beyond my reach, pulsing with crimson light. Amplified in the Jingozi arena, I sensed the Zii emanating from it¡ªalmost tasting it. My hand reached out, fingers steady as they brushed its edge. A figure stood beside me¡ªnot an enemy, not a stranger¡ªbut another me. It was an exact reflection, down to the angle of my hand, as I reached for the card. But this reflection was wrong, twisted. Its eyes, my eyes, gleamed with malice, a cruel smile playing on its lips as if it were in on a secret I had yet to learn. ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Ember?¡± its voice a distorted mockery of my own. ¡°Afraid I''m gonna kick your ass again?¡± I scowled. Not here. Not now. I shoved the unease and dread aside and lunged, my fingers straining for the card. The reflection twitched and streaked forward, snatching the card from the air. It twirled the glowing spell between its fingers, that same mocking smirk twisting its features. My features. ¡°No!¡± I shouted, my pulse hammering in my ears. The reflection tilted its head, inspecting the card indifferently as if it held nothing more than a trinket. I charged and swung, but my fist met air. The reflection dissolved into a swirling cloud of black smoke, reshaping itself into a ghost¡ªa Ninja wraith, untouchable. ¡°Really? You think you got this?¡± the ghost cackled. ¡°Come on, Ember Lynn, stop being an asshole to yourself.¡± I spun on my heel, teeth gritted, loading my cards. I blindly tried every shot and Ninja technique in my arsenal. Every card I threw, every spell I cast, it nonchalantly dodged, weaving between my movements with mocking grace. It mirrored me, always just a step ahead, flickering in and out of form like a demon dance partner made of shadows. Each time I managed to land a blow, it shifted into smoke, only to reappear as my reflection once more, standing with that insufferable grin. "You actually believe you can get home like this?¡± it taunted. ¡°No wonder you''ll always be poor little orphan Ember.¡± "Go fuck yourself," I snapped. "What do you think I''m doing?" it giggled. Rage clouded my vision. I lunged again, reckless, desperate. But this time, the reflection took on solid form, sweeping my legs out in a blur. Pain exploded through me as I crashed to the ground, my side smacking against the stone floor. My leg twisted, the bone snapping before the sound reached my ears. I screamed, the white-hot pain blinding me. My leg was shattered, but the reflection wasn¡¯t done. It crouched over me, cold eyes gleaming with cruel glee, twisting my leg further until I heard another sickening crack. My hamstring tore, my knee popped, and my leg bent at an impossible angle. I gasped for breath, my mind spinning in shock as I stared at my mangled limb. The reflection rose, its face now expressionless, watching me writhe on the ground with eerie calm. As if I were nothing more than a discarded toy, it turned to leave, dissolving into ghostly smoke again. The spell card glowed faintly in its hand as it drifted away, leaving me broken and helpless. ¡°No,¡± I growled. ¡°You¡¯re not leaving.¡± My ghost paused, its form wavering. ¡°You¡¯re not leaving!¡± I hissed, pushing myself up on one leg, the other screaming in protest. The world spun, my vision blurred, but I forced myself to stand, quivering as I balanced on my one good leg. The ghost pivoted slowly, its hollow eyes locking onto mine. Then, with a sudden burst of speed, it flew at me. I barely had time to brace myself before it slammed into me, its cold essence sinking into my skin like ice water. I gasped, my body stiffening as the freezing sensation spread through me, flooding every vein, every muscle, until it reached my core. * * * The cold was gone. No pain. No arena. I sat on a mat, cross-legged, my hands resting on my knees. The faint scent of incense curled in the air. It had been two days since I arrived at Radiant Temple with Katorro, enough time to recover from our escape. Yet the peace I expected to find here eluded me. The stillness, even in the presence of the nexus, was almost unnerving. I opened my card inventory. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A POWER CARD Evolve [3] Increase any 0 on your card by +1 for every Zii paid. ¡°I know you¡¯re there,¡± I announced, a flicker in the corner of the room drawing my attention. From the shadows, Sora emerged, as silent and stoic as ever, her eyes unreadable like stone. She crossed her arms, barely glancing at me.Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings. ¡°Katorro summons you,¡± she said flatly, then turned to leave. I couldn¡¯t take it anymore. ¡°Sora,¡± I called. ¡°Why do you hate me so much?¡± She paused but didn¡¯t turn around. The silence lasted between us, suffocating as usual. I waited, hoping¡ªno, demanding¡ªan answer. But she said nothing. Instead, she took another step toward the door. ¡°You¡¯re not leaving until you give me an answer.¡± She didn¡¯t stop. ¡°Tell me now!¡± She was on me in an instant, faster than I could blink. A Jingozi card flashed as she leaped through the air, ready to strike. I didn¡¯t flinch. I didn¡¯t move. I just looked her dead in the eye. ¡°Go ahead,¡± I said. ¡°Either kill me or talk to me. But what happened to you wasn¡¯t my fault.¡± Her gaze shifted¡ªjust for a moment, a flicker of¡­ something. The card in her hand hummed as she hovered above me, her breath shallow and uncertain. Sora threw the card with a low growl of frustration, penetrating the stone wall behind me. She turned on her heel and stormed toward the door, her steps heavy with what weighed between us. I watched her go, heart pounding. But I let her leave. There would be another time for answers. * * * Cragmarr stopped me in the hall on my way to find Katorro. ¡°How are you recovering, Em?¡± Cragmarr asked. I paused, unsure how to answer. How was I doing? I didn¡¯t even know. It was like walking in a haze, everything too much to sort through. I shrugged, trying to find the words. ¡°I¡­ don¡¯t really have an answer for that,¡± I replied. He nodded. ¡°Any word from the Emperor faction?¡± I leaned on the pillar. ¡°Nothing,¡± Cragmarr shook his head. "They may think you are dead. No one could have survived that fall.¡± ¡°Maybe it¡¯s better that way,¡± I said. ¡°If Edric thinks I¡¯m dead, we¡¯ve got some time. I just don¡¯t know what to do next.¡± ¡°It was a valiant plan, Em. Hiding your Jingozi abilities. Now I understand why you wanted my belt. That was clever.¡± ¡°Clever might be a stretch. Desperate, more likely.¡± He chuckled and gave me a reassuring nod. ¡°Do you know where Katorro is?¡± ¡°In the prayer room,¡± he gestured down the hall. ¡°He has been meditating there since your arrival while Sora tended to his healing.¡± ¡°What do you think, Crag?¡± ¡°About what?¡± ¡°Can he be my champion? My notifications say so.¡± ¡°I have never encountered this before.¡± ¡°It¡¯s totally bizarre, right?¡± ¡°Indeed,¡± he nodded. ¡°Can I have more than one champion?¡± ¡°No. For your first tournament, you are permitted only one.¡± ¡°Well, that sucks.¡± * * * The prayer room welcomed me with the soft glow of candlelight, flickering shadows dancing along the cold stone walls. The air hummed with a quiet stillness. In the center of the room, Katorro sat cross-legged, eyes closed in deep meditation. His scruffy beard and unkempt hair were gone, his head now smooth and clean-shaven, though his silver, bushy eyebrows remained. Still frail, he had a newfound strength, a quiet resilience that hadn¡¯t been there since his imprisonment. His breathing was steady, his posture grounded. Name: Katorro Hoshizaki [Arch Dealer] Tier: 7 [Obsidian] Rank ??? Faction: Ninja [Mystic] The Katorro I imagined¡ªmy Jingozi champion¡ªwasn''t supposed to look like this. How could this slight, quiet man have once been a warrior, a legend? His smooth, shaved head and the lines etched deep into his face told a different story than the Ninja mystic Sora shared. The thick eyebrows, still defiant above his closed eyes, were the only remnants of the champion she described. What had Overlord Edric done to him? How long had he rotted away in those dungeons to become like this? The resolve he was known for seemed distant now, almost as if it had been drained from him, replaced with this strange, peaceful resignation. Was that what Edric did to Jingozi champions? Stripped them of their fire until only a quiet, meditative shell remained? I checked my notification log again. FEAT COMPLETE: CHAMPION Discover your champion. ¡°Sit,¡± he murmured, his voice like a low ripple. He didn¡¯t open his eyes. Folding my legs beneath me, I felt the coolness of the stone floor through the mat. ¡°Ask your question,¡± he said. I hesitated. My mind was a jumble of thoughts, each vying for attention. ¡°How can you be my champion?¡± the doubt laced through my words. ¡°Why do you want me as your champion?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know¡­¡± I faltered. ¡°You told me to find you. The Jingozi¡ª¡± ¡°I am no longer a Jingozi Grandmaster,¡± he interrupted. ¡°I have been stripped of my cards¡ªmy power.¡± ¡°But my notifi¡­ how did Edric do this to you?¡± ¡°I failed and have been disgraced.¡± ¡°Oh.¡± I lowered my gaze, trying to mask my dismay. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± ¡°Do you still wish for me to be your champion?¡± he tilted his head, eyes still closed. ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± "You must believe to find your champion." The air thickened around us, his words heavy with meaning. Doubt tugged away in the back of my mind. Cragmarr had just explained that only one champion could represent me. Was this truly the man who would guide me through the Jingozi tournament and help me get home? ¡°Close your eyes,¡± Katorro instructed. ¡°Center your Zii.¡± I obeyed, shutting out the dim light around me, and inhaled deeply. The air filled my lungs, each breath slower than the last, sinking me deeper into the quiet. Something stirred in the darkness of my mind¡ªa pair of burning eyes, bright as fire, stared back at me¡ªthe eyes from my dreams. ¡°What do you see?¡± Katorro¡¯s voice was distant, as if it were drifting. ¡°Your eyes.¡± ¡°Then you see what I see.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t understand,¡± I fought the temptation to open my eyes. ¡°Ask.¡± There was a moment of silence until the first thing that came to my mind slipped out. ¡°How do I go home?¡± ¡°You already know, Ember. You must win the Jingozi tournament.¡± NEW QUEST: JINGOZI TOURNAMENT Work with your faction to win the Jingozi tournament for a special reward. Prerequisite: Tier III [Steel] Rank 1. I stared at my final quest and fought back bitter tears. ¡°But how?¡± my voice cracked with frustration. ¡°How, with you as my champion?¡± ¡°Complete your trials.¡± ¡°I have,¡± I blurted. ¡°I survived forty days after Cragmarr¡ª¡± ¡°Life is an infinite trial, as is Jingozi. There is no end.¡± I wanted to argue. ¡°What is my next trial, then?¡± I asked. "You must sacrifice three fathers." I clenched my jaw, feeling the last threads of my patience fraying. Three fathers? I kept the thought trapped in my mind. What kind of cryptic bullshit is that? He couldn''t mean literal fathers. Is this some metaphor for father figures? My mind raced, thinking of my adoptive Japanese dad, wondering if he somehow factored into this bizarre equation. The constant riddles, vague prophecies, and ambiguous instructions became too much. I wanted clear answers, a straightforward path, not this labyrinth of enigmatic clues. My confusion was quickly morphing into anger, and I struggled to keep it in check. Can''t anybody just give me a straight answer for once? ¡°I will show you, Ember,¡± he said. Katorro¡¯s eyes suddenly surged into my mind, sharp and overwhelming. His presence flooded my thoughts, cutting through my consciousness like a blade. Before I could resist, his mind took over, seizing control and pulling me into the depths of his will¡ªinto his fire. Chapter 43: VESSEL Chapter 43: VESSEL
A heavy fog blanketed the night, the crescent moon barely visible above the dark waters. The rhythmic splash of oars broke the silence. Katorro sat motionless in the boat, his masked face calm, eyes fixed ahead. Two Ninjas rowed in unison before and behind him, their faces also concealed. Surrounding them, a fleet of other boats glided through the mist, each filled with more Ninjas¡ªblack shadows merging with the mist. The cliffs loomed ahead, jagged and steep, vanishing into the darkness above. The distant murmur of waves crashing against the rocks below was the only indication of how far they had yet to go. The fortress of Emperia, capital of the Emperor faction, perched atop the cliffs, remained hidden from sight, but its presence was unmistakable. Katorro didn¡¯t speak. His focus was absolute. His mind had already calculated every step of the mission, every movement, every breath. The boats arrived at the base of the cliff. Without a word, the Ninjas stepped out and began their ascent. Katorro was the last to stand, his figure a ghost against the dark sea as he followed the others. They let the boats drift away. This was a one-way trip. The Ninjas scaled the cliff. Katorro led, his fingers finding purchase on the jagged rocks, his body moving effortlessly upward. As the cliff gave way to a smoother wall, they switched to climbing claws, continuing their ascent without breaking stride. Halfway up, the faint outline of a sewer grate came into view. Katorro reached it first. He glanced down at the Ninjas below, then loaded a Jingozi card. With a flick of his wrist, the card glowed faintly, and Katorro pressed it against the grate. It transformed into a plasma blade, slicing cleanly through the metal bars with barely a sound. Katorro gave the signal and climbed into the sewer. Inside, the air was damp and foul. The narrow tunnel stretched out before them, barely tall enough to stand. Katorro crouched, holding a glowing card for just enough light as they crawled through the filth. Muffled cries echoed¡ªchildren¡ªtrapped¡ªtheir soft and desperate cries a reminder of their mission. As they passed under each opening above, Katorro sliced the grates around the edge and then cleanly in half. A Ninja quickly supported the pieces in place, prepared to breach the dungeon cell above. Twelve Ninjas for twelve grates. They remained still and ready, waiting for the signal. A scream from the last cell, a penetrating sound, raw with pain¡ªa child''s plea for help, desperate and agonizing. Katorro gave the command. The Ninjas allowed the pieces of the grates to fall into the sewer tunnel and hoisted themselves up into the cells. But to their surprise, every cell was empty, the barred doors ajar. The twelve entered the hall, giving each other puzzled looks. Another wail burst from the end of the row. Curled under the window, a small, naked, and emaciated child let out another piercing scream. One of the Ninjas quickly moved toward the figure, but as he approached, it shifted. The child¡¯s form began to twist and distort, the whimpers fading, replaced by a low, unnatural growl. The child was no longer. The body contorted, limbs stretching unnaturally as the skin hardened and cracked. Before Katorro¡¯s eyes, the child transformed into a clay Demi-Golem, its stone-like body filling the cell. It was a trap. The dungeon halls exploded with commotion. Guards poured in from behind them, their heavy boots pounding the stone as they marched through the hallways. The Ninjas stood their ground, drawing their blades, trapped between guards and the Golem. The Golem lunged at one of them, but the Ninja was faster, his blade slicing through the air as he dodged the creature''s studded fists. The Golem''s stone-like body scraped against the wall, sending sparks flying. Undeterred, it swung again, its movements surprisingly quick for its bulk. The Ninja ducked and rolled, coming up behind the construct and striking it down. His blade left barely a scratch on the golem''s surface. Realizing brute force wouldn''t work, the Ninja changed tactics. He darted around the golem, searching for weak points, his movements a blur of black against the creature''s clay form. The Golem roared in frustration, its attacks becoming wilder and less coordinated. Meanwhile, the clash of steel and the grunts of fellow Ninjas battling the guards continued on the other side. The narrow corridor echoed with combat¡ªmetal hitting metal while bodies collided. A knight stepped into the hall, towering over the other guards. He was clad in heavy black armor. His head was bald and covered in scars, and he had a thick black beard. A golden ram''s head protruding from an upside-down cross gleamed ominously on his chest. In one hand, he held a massive golden mace, its handle wrapped with a rosary. An unsettling aura of corrupted sanctity radiated from the unholy paladin. The knight coiled into a battle stance, his eyes locking onto the first Ninja. His grim smile spoke of cruel intentions. ¡°Lightslayer,¡± Katorro muttered, immediately recognizing the infamous Jingozi grandmaster. He braced himself as Lance charged, his heavy footsteps reverberating through the stone floor. Even the Golem paused to watch. ¡°You should have stayed in the shadows,¡± Lance growled, loading his Jingozi hand. ¡°But now you¡¯ll perish by Zebelma''s light.¡± Charging his mace with a card, Lance brought the weapon down, causing a shockwave of exploding light. Blinded, the Ninjas dodged, rolling out of the way as the mace crashed into the stone, splitting it with a thunderous crack. The first Ninja rose to his feet, blade ready, but Lance was already on him, swinging with brutal strength. The mace shattered the katana, transforming midswing into an axe to cleave the Ninja in two. The knight put his boot on the Ninja¡¯s body and yanked back, launching a chunk of flesh and trails of organs that splattered the ceiling. Infusing his mace with another card, the Jingozi grandmaster hurled it down the hall, pulverizing two Ninjas and a guard. The Golem ducked just in time as the mace embedded into the stone wall above its head. Playing another card, Lance extended his hand. The mace vibrated and released itself from the stone, flying back and bowling over more Ninjas and guards before catching it.If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. The Golem tackled an unsuspecting Ninja tussling with a guard. It grabbed the Ninja in a chokehold and twisted until an audible snap. The Golem unleashed a disturbing scream, sounding once again like a child. The skirmish lasted a few more moments after more guards swarmed into the hall. One by one, the Ninjas succumbed. Lance grinned as he brought his mace down again, knocking a katana aside and then slamming the butt of the handle into a Ninja¡¯s chest, sending him crashing against the wall. As Katorro struggled to rise, pinned under three guards, Lance put his boot on his back, breathing heavily with satisfaction. "Ah, how unfortunate. Your misguided crusade ends here, as all acts of wickedness must. We, the righteous, have triumphed. It is time to accept the judgment that your sinful ways have brought upon you." * * * Katorro, shackled and bleeding, was dragged into the grand throne room of Emperor Overlord Edric. The air was thick with incense, and the oppressive weight of the faction ruler''s Zii filled the vast space. The ornate walls, lined with tapestries depicting the Emperor¡¯s victories, mocked the Ninjas as they were forced to kneel on the cold stone floor. Beside Katorro, two of his fellow Ninjas knelt, equally shackled, their faces hidden beneath their masks. They had fought bravely but, like him, were subdued. At the far end of the room, the Emperor Overlord sat upon his gaudy throne, draped in regal purple, his pale face twisted in a sneer. Edric¡¯s eyes locked onto Katorro with a look of both curiosity and disdain. ¡°Remove his mask,¡± Edric ordered. The guards stepped forward, ripping off Katorro¡¯s mask. His face was bruised, but his black eyes glinted with a steely, unbroken spirit. Edric rose slowly, the weight of his presence growing with each step he took toward them. He stopped before Katorro, staring down at him. ¡°I wonder,¡± Edric said slowly, ¡°why would your faction send a common field Ninja for such a brazen assault? Did you foolishly believe I would not know? That you could stroll into my domain and steal children¡ªmy children?¡± Katorro refused a response, his silence agitating the Emperor. ¡°Still defiant?¡± Edric¡¯s eyes narrowed, his hand moving to the spiked wand strapped to his side. ¡°I asked you a question, Ninja.¡± Katorro¡¯s gaze didn¡¯t waver, without a flicker of fear or submission. Edric¡¯s hand lashed out, and before anyone could react, the spike was driven deep into Katorro¡¯s stomach. The sharp pain ripped through him, but Katorro clenched his teeth, refusing to give Edric the satisfaction of a scream. He felt the blood streaming through his gi. Edric leaned in, his face close to Katorro¡¯s. ¡°I can make this quick if you tell me who is behind all this futility,¡± he whispered. The Ninja met his gaze with cold fire through the pain. Katorro then did something that made Edric pause¡ªthe Ninja smiled. Katorro crunched a small capsule hidden inside his mouth. His jaw tightened, biting down hard. A liquid burst in his mouth. He immediately felt a burning sensation. Katorro spat acid directly onto Edric¡¯s face. The Emperor screamed¡ªa guttural, enraged cry¡ªhis hands flying to his face as the acid seared his flesh. He stumbled back, his once-proud features contorting in agony as the toxic chemicals ate away at his skin with a disgusting sizzling sound. The burns spread, the flesh bubbling and smoking. But the damage was inflicted both ways. Katorro¡¯s mouth, his throat, everything burned as the acid ravaged him from within. He felt the life slipping from him, but the satisfaction of seeing his enemy suffer was worth it. His vision dimmed as he collapsed forward onto the floor, his face melting into a bloody soup. As the guards rushed to the ruler''s side, the second Ninja, unnoticed, sprang into action in the confusion. He leaped onto Edric from behind, wrapping his chains around the Overlord''s neck. The guards were too slow. Edric reached back and tore the Ninja¡¯s mask away, revealing¡­ Katorro. The real Katorro. The other Ninja, now dead, was a decoy, a clone, while the real Katorro had hidden in plain sight. His eyes burned with fire as he unleashed a Jingozi card and transformed. Armored plates grew over his body and face, bursting into flames. The air pulsed with magic as he took his true form¡ªa fire demon, his Ninja armor blazing with fiery light. The shackle broke as a blade grew in his hands. He raised it high above the writhing Overlord. Edric, his face burned and disfigured, spun and looked up in horror as Katorro prepared to deliver the final blow. A Jingozi card struck Katorro in the back, its power surging through him. His fiery form flickered and vanished, his demonic power stripped away. He collapsed to his knees, back to his normal form, his strength drained. Behind him, three figures floated down the stairs¡ªJingozi. Cloaked in darkness, their presence brought a sudden, chilling silence to the room. Edric staggered to his feet, his face smoking from the acid burns, but he cackled. He held his injured face with one hand while, with the other, he gestured toward Katorro. ¡°Why?¡± Edric demanded again, his voice a rasping growl. "Why risk your life this way?" Katorro remained silent, kneeling before the Jingozi with his head bowed. His breath was ragged, his body weakened, but his fury was unwavering. He would not speak. Edric, still clutching his seared face, let out a cold laugh. He stabbed Katorro in the shoulder with his wand and then ripped his Ninja suit, revealing a Jingozi belt strapped across the Ninja''s chest. Edric tore it off and tossed it over his shoulder. He turned toward the other Ninja, still kneeling in shackles. ¡°If you will not answer, maybe your friend will.¡± With a swift motion, Edric removed the Ninja¡¯s mask, revealing a woman with red hair¡ªher eyes wide with fear. Stunned, Katorro stared at the woman, recognizing who she was. ¡°My my, she is quite fair, would you not agree?¡± Edric grinned despite the pain radiating from his burns. ¡°Perhaps she will be more cooperative after a little¡­ persuasion.¡± ¡°I will talk,¡± Katorro growled. ¡°And what would you like to talk about, Ninja?¡± Edric jeered. ¡°I will tell you why I came to kill you¡­ who sent me.¡± Katorro paused. ¡°Well? You test my patience. Out with it.¡± ¡°I speak to the Jingozi first, and you agree to spare her life.¡± ¡°Or I could kill you now and return your head to your faction on a satin pillow.¡± ¡°Then I will give you the key to my card deck,¡± Katorro grimaced. Edric appeared startled, as if he''d received an unexpected gift. He turned to the three Jingozi, who nodded in unison. ¡°Then say it," Edric''s confused expression turned into glee. ¡°By my Zii, I swear it before three,¡± Katorro hung his head. ¡°Well, I must confess,¡± Edric¡¯s satisfied eyes puffed with wisps of purple smoke. ¡°This is a most delightful turn of events.¡± Katorro locked gazes with the red-haired Ninja. His eyes lit with flames, and so did hers. ¡°Take them away,¡± Edric commanded. * * * Katorro knelt on the cell floor, shackled by his hands and feet. Another shackle clamped his neck, with four chains securing it to four rings bolted into the floor. A lone Jingozi floated before him, its hood drawn to reveal the grotesque metal skull mask. The Ninja snapped his fingers to create a Zii coin and presented it to the Jingozi. ¡°She is the vessel,¡± Katorro said. The Jingozi extended its bony metal hand, plucked the Zii coin from Katorro¡¯s palm, and nodded. As soon as the Jingozi left the cell, Katorro felt the twinge of weakness creep into his bones. His muscles began to atrophy as if in timelapse, his once-powerful frame slowly shrinking. By nightfall, his hair thinned and grayed. Hours passed, each one extracting its toll. His skin lost elasticity, and wrinkles formed around his eyes and mouth. His posture, once proud and straight, curved and hunched. His eyesight blurred. Colors faded to muted shades. Hours turned into days, and Katorro''s transformation continued relentlessly. His hair fell out completely, except for a few tufts. Once steady and strong enough to wield any weapon, his hands became gnarled and trembling. His voice, previously commanding and clear, turned raspy and weak. Katorro became a shadow of his former self. Where once stood a mighty Ninja warrior and Jingozi grandmaster, now knelt a frail, blind old man, withered, weak and vulnerable. But even as his physical form failed him, one thing remained constant¡ªthe fire in his eyes. Chapter 44: JUTSU Chapter 44: JUTSU
I gasped for air, the vivid and haunting vision of Katorro''s transformation still fresh in my mind. My head spun as I tried to process what I''d seen. "You were there when I entered the vessel," I said. "Why didn''t you tell me?" The old man turned his sightless eyes toward me, a sad smile on his weathered face. "You have seen it, then," he said. "Yes." "I needed to be sure that you were the one." "I don''t understand." "Only the chosen vessel would share my vision. You are the one who seeks a champion from another world." "Who is she?" I asked. "The vessel I''m in right now." "One of our bravest Ninjas," he replied. "And a mother." My heart stopped. "Don''t tell me¡ªshe had a child¡ª" I stammered. "Yes. That mission was hers and on behalf of the other families in our village. The Overlord had been kidnapping children for months from across the kingdoms¡ªeven the Amazons." "Why did you sacrifice yourself? You could have stopped Edric. I''m not strong enough." "Did you not see our attempt?" Katorro sighed. "My time was ending. I saw someone who would turn the tide against the Jingozi in you." "Me?" He nodded slowly. "The Jingozi intervened for reasons I do not know, but you are now the only hope," he trailed off, his unseeing eyes clouding. "Why was he taking the children?" I asked, dreading the answer. "That, I do not know. But it is nothing good." "What do I need to do?" I stood up, pacing the small room. "Complete your training." "How am I supposed to get strong enough to challenge Edric?" "We start with this," he replied, opening his hand to reveal a power card, which floated up to my eye level. "How''d you do that?" "I saw it and took it when we shared visions," he stood with me. "There is more than one way to be your champion." I plucked the card out of the air, bracing myself for what always came next. Nothing happened except for a notification. Death Strike "We will continue this conversation when it is time," Katorro said. "For now, I must pray." * * * "He was there, Crag," I said. "Katorro was with my vessel when the Jingozi brought me here. So was the Jingozi that chose my vessel." Cragmarr nodded, mulling over my revelation. We were perched atop the ramparts of the Radiant Temple, gazing out at the wooded vista before us. The weather was mild, with a refreshing wind and the smell of pine in the air. "Indeed very strange," he said. "The Jingozi are always discreet. They would not reveal their plans in such a manner, especially to a champion. I confess I have not seen such circumstances in half a millennia." "Five hundred years? How long have you been doing this?" "I am assigned a charge every seventy years. You are my eighth." "And what happened to the seven before me?" "They all died." "What?" I exclaimed. "You better be joking." "Unfortunately," he hung his head, "I am not." "How could you keep that from me?¡± I fumed. Cragmarr stayed still without a word. "I can''t tell you how furious I am, Crag. That you didn¡¯t tell me I¡¯m as good as dead." "Em¡­" Before Cragmarr could utter another word, I blinked to the Jingozi arena. Stepping outside my physical form, my gaze fell upon the frozen scene reflected on the obsidian-like floor¡ªthe tension between me and Cragmarr, suspended in time. My face contorted with anger, fists clenched at my sides, while Cragmarr''s expression was dark with regret and resignation. I seethed, my emotions threatening to unleash words I''d later regret. "Is it true?" I asked Alphathir. "Every player before me is dead?" "Yes," he replied, "the Golem would not lie to you."This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. "Did you know any of them?" "Yes, I knew every intimate detail of them all. But you''re the only one who knows me." "What makes me so different?" "You were chosen. I have given the Jingozi seven chances. And now they must listen¡­to you." "Listen to what?" I waved my clenched fists into the sky. ¡°Make it make sense!¡± "It''s not meant to make sense. There is a greater story here beyond your understanding." "Sounds like a bunch of bullshit to me," I spat. "Give me the truth! Stop gaslighting me!¡± Silence. Fuck. I blinked back to my conversation with Cragmarr. He caught himself mid-apology as I started walking away. "What would you have me do?" Crag called after me. "Train, Crag," I said without looking back. "We''re going to train." * * * For the next three days, I immersed myself in a grueling training regimen that pushed me to my limits. Katorro insisted we return to the foundations of the Ninja way, introducing me to Zii-Jutsu. "Zii-Jutsu is the discipline and technique of harnessing your Zii beyond what you believe to be your limitations," he explained. "You rely too heavily on your shurikens and defense-meta. When you know only one way, the enemy will also know the one way to defeat you." Sora stood beside him, presenting a sword. It was shorter than the katanas I was used to seeing during my time in Raishoto. ¡°The katana is a beautiful weapon, Ember," Sora began. "A weapon of honor, of tradition. But it¡¯s made for open battle, for those who wear the Samurai armor.¡± ¡°And this?¡± I looked down at the sword ¡°A ninjat¨­¡ªa tool, not a symbol. The katana is long and curved for sweeping strikes, duels, and battlefield combat. But it is cumbersome. It takes longer to draw, longer to cut, and harder to conceal. The shorter and straighter Ninja sword is designed for speed and stealth.¡± She placed the ninjat¨­ in my hands, its weight lighter than I expected. ¡°With this,¡± she continued, ¡°you move faster. You strike before your opponent sees. The straight blade is versatile for climbing, prying, and setting traps. You can carry it unnoticed. It¡¯s made for the shadows, for efficiency. When you¡¯re working from the darkness, you don¡¯t need elegance¡ªyou need results.¡± ¡°So, it¡¯s not about tradition. It¡¯s about survival,¡± I ran my fingers over the blade, feeling the cold steel. "Got it." "Good," Katorro grunted in approval. ¡°The Samurai seek glory in battle. A Ninja seeks no glory¡ªonly the completion of the mission. We win not by strength but by the way of Zii-Jutsu.¡± I gripped the handle tighter, feeling the blade''s simplicity and practicality. It wasn¡¯t ornate or flashy. "But wait," I said. "How am I supposed to hold a sword and use my Jingozi cards?" "You have two hands and a mind," Katorro replied. "Learn to use all three." * * * It didn¡¯t take long to figure out the ninjato was more than just a weapon¡ªit was a tool of distraction and misdirection. Sora demonstrated how to keep the blade in my right hand, not for killing blows but for feints, parries, and blocks. Its weight and speed let me keep my opponent¡¯s eyes on the glint of steel. We sparred with the Monks. With each movement of my sword, I created small openings¡ªmoments to slip a card from my left hand and hurl it before they even realized I was using both weapons. But when they caught on, watching for my cards, I shifted tactics, using them to charge the sword with power instead. The fluidity of it¡ªswitching between sword and card¡ªbecame second nature faster than expected. Katorro taught me how to apply the same speed to casting spells. Up to this point, I''d been casting spells manually. But if I focused, my hand would appear in my field of vision¡ªon my interface. From there, I could mentally click to cast any card without relying on physical reaction time. "Visualize the cards in your mind and cast them," Katorro had instructed. "Your body will follow." I alternated between training sessions with Cragmarr, Sora, and groups of Monks in the temple. Each brought their unique style, forcing me to adapt and improvise. Cragmarr''s sessions were a mix of patience and raw power. The Monks pushed me in different ways, their fluid movements presenting different challenges. But at Thunder Temple, I became familiar with Cragmarr and Monks. It was Sora who truly tested my limits. She said nothing during our sessions, her silence more demanding than any shouted order. Every movement, every technique, had to be perfect. When I faltered, she made me pay, punishing every misstep. During breaks, I learned the most from watching Sora spar with Cragmarr. Her lithe form danced around the hulking Golem. Her strikes were precise and devastating. Cragmarr, for all his strength and endurance, couldn''t land a single blow. Sora was a force of nature, unstoppable and relentless. By the end of the third day, every muscle in my body forbade me from taking one more step. I''d never trained so hard in my life. LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: II [Bronze] Rank 5 As I collapsed onto my bed that night, exhausted beyond measure, I couldn''t help but wonder if it would be enough. * * * I woke to a familiar weight on my chest and something warm and wet on my face. Kitty''s tongue tickled my cheek as she squealed with delight. "Kitty?" I couldn''t believe it. "How?" "Good morning," Kaito''s voice came from nearby. "Kaito?" I blinked, focusing on his grinning face. Without thinking, I reached out and pulled him into a hug. "How''d you get here? And how did Kitty¡­" "Sora brought us through the nexus," he chuckled, returning the embrace. "She used your familiar ring." He pulled back, fishing something from his pocket. "Here," he said, holding out my ring. "Sora said to give it to you when you woke up." My hand flew to my finger, finding it bare. I didn''t know how to feel¡ªrelief seeing Kitty and Kaito but unease at the thought of Sora taking my ring. I dismissed it as a gesture of goodwill. I slipped it on and scratched Kitty behind her ears. "Anybody can use the familiar ring?" I asked. "No. The companion must be willing to go with the ring bearer. Kitty is bonded to you, but she knows me and Sora. It wasn''t hard convincing her to come along." "Thank you, Kaito. I missed you both." "Oh, and don''t forget¡ªyou''ve still got that evolution enhancement charge," Kaito added. "Ask Cragmarr about it." "Yeah, I''ll save it for now." I hesitated, then asked, "How are you doing, Kaito? You know, since..." "Some days are harder than others," his smile faltered momentarily. "But I''ve been keeping busy. Taikumi had me help run the guild back in Raishoto." "That''s good," I said, impulsively pulling Kaito into another hug. This time, it lasted longer than I''d intended. I felt his body tense slightly. Realizing the awkwardness of the moment, I pulled away. Kaito cleared his throat, a faint blush creeping across his cheeks. He averted his gaze, suddenly finding the floor incredibly interesting. "So, uh... breakfast?" he asked, his voice slightly higher than usual. "I''m starving." "Yeah, breakfast sounds good." I nodded, feeling my own face heat up. * * * I followed Kaito to the dining hall, Kitty perched on my shoulder. The aroma of fresh buns and spices met us at the door. Master Xiang, Cragmarr, and Sora were seated at a long wooden table. Katorro never joined us for meals. My stomach growled, betraying my hunger, but I wasn''t in the mood to join anybody for a meal. The emotions from earlier were still simmering. Part of me wanted to retreat to my room and process everything alone, but I knew I couldn''t avoid the situation. And Kaito didn''t deserve to bear the brunt of my mood. "Good morning," Master Xiang greeted us warmly. "I trust you slept well, Ember?" I nodded, sitting beside Cragmarr, avoiding eye contact. "Better than I have in a while," I lied. Sora cleared her throat as we filled our plates with steaming rice and vegetables. "Now that we''re all here," she said, "we should discuss our strategy moving forward." "Agreed," Cragmarr nodded. "The Emperor faction believes Ember is dead. We should use that to our advantage." They all turned to me. I swallowed a mouthful of rice and a bun. Master Xiang studied me intently. "Taikumi wants us to focus on getting you to max level," Kaito broke the silence. "And while we do that, we can gather knowledge of the Emperor faction''s plans." "Especially the kidnapped children," Sora added, her face grim. I swallowed hard, watching Kitty annoy a trail of ants in the corner. "What will you do, Ember?" Master Xiang asked. "With you presumed dead," Cragmar turned to me. "Maybe you can¡ª" I abruptly jumped to my feet, startling everyone. The hall went silent, waiting for me to say something. The doors to the dining hall burst open with a bang. A female monk stumbled in, her robes torn and stained with blood. Her eyes were wide with panic. "Master Xiang!" she gasped, struggling to catch her breath. "The mines... all the other monks... captured!" "Mei Ling, what happened?" Master Xiang rose to steady her. "They came without warning. We were overwhelmed. I... I was the only one who escaped." Chapter 45: MINERS Chapter 45: MINERS
Mei Ling explained that soldiers of the Emperor faction ambushed three mining teams. She only escaped because she was running an errand between two locations. In an attempt to flee, she fell off a steep ledge, causing the soldiers to abandon their pursuit. We immediately mobilized for a rescue. NEW MISSION: MONK MINER RESCUE Rescue the Monk mining team from the Emperor faction. "This is yours, Sora," I said, holding up the ninjat¨­ I''d been using for training. "Now yours," she said. I stowed the sword in my inventory. Our eyes met briefly before we turned away to continue preparations. The gesture felt significant, but I didn''t have time to dwell on it. "Ember," Cragmarr''s voice came from behind me. "You should not go. You risk alerting the Emperor faction of your location." "I need to do this," I sighed, not turning to face him. The truth was, I was itching to leave. The awkward conversations and unresolved tensions were suffocating. This rescue mission was an excuse to escape, even if just for a while. Master Xiang approached, his face solemn. "Ember, I am sending you down the same tunnel you used before," he said. "You should remember the way." "Yes, Master Xiang," I said, pausing for a moment with the memory of Li Wei. The last time I''d taken the tunnel, the Amazons had slaughtered so many. This time, it was the Emperor faction. These Monks couldn''t catch a break. "Be careful, all of you," Master Xiang addressed the three of us. "Do not enter the mines unless certain. Many become lost that way. And be careful using fire magic. With enough force and flame, the octranite crystals will ignite, and the tunnels may collapse. May the spirits guide you." We all acknowledged Master Xiang and set out towards the tunnels. Kitty jumped up and nestled on my shoulders. Heading towards the exit, Cragmarr called out again. "Em, please... be careful." I paused, feeling a pang of guilt. Our relationship had soured, and I knew it was mostly my fault. "I will," I said, not looking back. * * * Emerging from the tunnel, I used the Jingozi arena to scan the area, quickly locating the first team of miners being watched by two guards outside the cave entrance. The familiar canyons filled with rainbow-colored crystals glowed even in broad daylight. But it was getting late, and a night search would make things much harder. As I crept towards the cave entrance, I passed the altar where Cragmarr and I had burned Li Wei''s body. I touched it briefly, a silent gesture of respect. "Hi Li," I whispered. "We took care of your parents. I hope you''ve found peace¡­ wherever you are." I expected to see the bones of the Amazons from our last encounter, but the area was clean. They must''ve come back for the bodies. Ducking behind a column of stone and crystal, two soldiers guarded the cave entrance. I glanced at Kitty perched on my shoulder. "Sorry, girl. We can''t blink together. Time to go in the ring." Kitty bristled briefly before disappearing into the familiar ring with a soft shimmer. Text popped up in my vision. SELECT A PET EVOLUTION Option 1: Stealth Option 2: Flight Option 3: Diamond Armor Charges Remaining: 1 Looks like we''ve got some choices to make later, Kitty. I tossed a rock into the cave behind the guards. As they turned to investigate the noise, I blinked as deep into the cave as they could see, ducking behind a cluster of octranite crystals. Loading my Jingozi hand, I waited, ready to defend myself if the guards noticed my entry. But they remained oblivious, focused on the cave''s mouth. The crystals provided just enough light to illuminate my path deeper into the tunnels. I moved carefully, adjusting my eyes to the dim glow as I ventured further, searching for the captured Monks. I released Kitty from the familiar ring, her silver scales glinting in rainbow colors. She nuzzled against my leg. "Alright, Kitty. Let''s see what we''re dealing with." I blinked into the Jingozi arena and started to explore what turned out to be a vast network of tunnels and caverns. It was like tracing an ant farm through a sheet of glass, each passage visible from this vantage point. The system was far more extensive than I''d anticipated. Tunnels branched off in every direction, twisting and turning deeper. As I traced the paths on the arena floor, I noticed the crystals growing denser and brighter the further they extended. I walked, following the maze from my body, marking my entry point, and checking my North Star for every rotation. And after a few moments of searching, I spotted the Monk miners. Ten of them were chained together around a stalactite in a large cavern. They''d been stripped bare except for their undergarments. But something was off¡ªthere were no guards in sight.If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. That''s weird. Leaving them unguarded? I mentally noted the directions, memorizing each turn and fork in the tunnels that would lead me to the miners. Satisfied with my reconnaissance, I blinked out of the arena. "Come on, Kitty. I know where to go." We moved silently through the tunnels, following the path I''d mapped out in the Jingozi arena. The crystals grew brighter as we descended, casting a multicolored light show across the rough stone walls. I slowed as we approached the cavern where the miners were held, listening for any signs of guards or traps. But the only sounds were the occasional water drips and the faint clink of chains. Scanning through the Jingozi arena once more for good measure confirmed we were alone. But why? Materializing right next to the Monks, they jerked in surprise, chains rattling, but I quickly raised a finger to my lips. I immediately saw why no guards were posted or even necessary. My stomach turned as I took in the gruesome sight. Each Monk had one foot crushed, mangled beyond recognition. It looked like someone had smashed them with a hammer. They didn''t need guards because they couldn''t run if they wanted to. * * * I spent time freeing the Monks from their chains. Using my Jingozi cards, I sliced through the metal links, careful not to make too much noise. As each Monk was freed, attention to their injuries came next. I channeled my Zii, directing healing energy into their mangled feet. I didn''t have the skill to heal them completely, but I could at least get them mobile. Kitty played her part, moving from Monk to Monk, her long tongue flicking at their wounds. We worked in near silence, communicating only through gestures and nods. The occasional muffled groan of pain from a Monk was quickly hushed. Each drank from my waterskin, which was passed around until empty. As I healed, exhaustion crept over me. The constant use of Zii was draining, and the exertion and high humidity drenched me in sweat. Finally, the last Monk stood shakily on his feet. They weren''t fully healed¡ªfar from it¡ªbut they could walk. I gathered the Monks around me, keeping my voice low, outlining our next move. "We''re heading to the entrance," I whispered. "I''ll take care of the guards before they can raise the alarm. Stay close, stay quiet." * * * I scouted ahead using the Jingozi arena. An entire platoon of Emperor soldiers waited for us at the cave entrance. "Damn it," I muttered. The injured Monks wouldn''t stand a chance against that many soldiers. But there was no way out. I blinked back to the group. I turned and faced the terrified monks, shaking my head. I signaled to turn around and pointed back down the cavern. We''d have to barricade ourselves inside. But then what? Come on, Em, think. Suddenly, a chillingly familiar name popped on my interface. Name: Lance Lightslayer [Judgment Dealer] Tier: VII [Obsidian] Rank ??? Faction: Emperor [Overlord] I instinctively blinked back into the Jingozi arena. It was Lance the Lightslayer, one of Edric''s soldiers from Katorro''s vision. And if not for my ability to see his stats, he would''ve snuck right on top of us. How was he so hidden and quiet in that armor? I loaded my cards and checked my hand. Hand: [5/6] [Poison Strike] [Force Field II] [3/5] [6/6] [2/2] What was I going to do? Hit him with a [Poison Strike]? What good would that achieve against him? I recalled Master Xiang''s warning about fire and force. The last thing I needed was to blow the whole mine up¡ªor maybe¡­ Blinking back to the Monks, I yelled, "Run!" and mentally told Kitty to go with them. The group sprinted down the tunnel. I felt the Zii in the air vibrate as a ball of light, the size of an open umbrella, hurtled toward me. It was Lance''s mace¡ªthe same attack he used in the vision. My [6/6] and [2/2] cards would grant me a 100% chance to dodge, but what if it hit the Monks? Force Field II I paid 6 Zii to cast [Forcefield II] with a [5/6] card and then charged it with two more Zii to make it a [10/12]. Please, god, let this work. The mace deflected mid-flight like it hit a shimmering energy wall that filled the entire tunnel, sparking where it made contact. It ricocheted off the wall, dislodging crystals. I launched a maximum-charged [6/6] with [Poison Strike] at a part of the wall with the highest density of octranite crystal formations. It exploded, sending rainbow shards through the air. My next card, a fire shot, ignited the tunnel. NINJA KIMONO: FIRE PROTECTION [PASSIVE] Cost: 2 Zii Flames wooshed past me like a fiery tidal wave, knocking me off my feet. The tunnel shook with a furious rumble as pieces of rock and crystal fell from the ceiling. I continued hurling cards upward from my back, causing more rubble to rain. Dust billowed in the air as the tunnel entrance collapsed. When the tremors settled, a wall of rocks peppered with octranite stood between me and the Emperor soldiers. Light peeked through a small opening at the top of the pile. "That was most impressive, if not tragically wasted," Lance called from the other side. My eyes watered, and I was covered in soot and fine crystal dust, hesitant to breathe. I pulled my Ninja mask over my mouth and nose. "You have only trapped yourself, Ember. How long do you think you can last in there?" His tone became even more smug. "Why protect those heathens? Surrender and repent, and I will ensure you are cleansed." I ignored him, focusing on our next move. We were safe for now, but Lance was right¡ªwe couldn''t stay in these mines forever. Lance''s voice drifted through the gap, taunting me one more time. "May Zebelma find mercy on you all." * * * SELECT A PET EVOLUTION Option 1: Stealth Option 2: Flight Option 3: Diamond Armor Charges Remaining: 1 "I think it''s option two, Kitty." We all huddled in the tunnel, surrounded by glowing crystals. Summoning Kitty into my familiar ring, I examined the options, looking for anything to help our plight. Kitty was pretty stealthy as is. So, I wasn''t sure how much good Option 1 would do. And diamond armor made sense if we needed more protection, especially when she draped over my shoulders. I chose flight for the current situation. DO YOU SELECT OPTION 2: FLIGHT? This choice is permanent. [YES/NO] Yes. The two pearls on the familiar ring glowed, emanating a shimmering swirl that formed into Kitty levitating before me. She zipped around the cavern, squealing with pleasure, before returning to nuzzle my nose with hers. "Alright, girl. We can have fun later. Right now, I need you to squeeze through the gap up there and get help. Let Cragmarr know where we are. But be careful. Fly past Lance and those soldiers as fast as you can. Got it?" She squeaked in acknowledgment and streaked away, now through the air, leaving a silver trail. "What will we do?" one of the Monks approached and asked. "How about we start with your name?" "Yong Ming." "Okay. My name is Ember. Nice to meet you. And I¡¯m still thinking about the next move." I surveyed the group of ten bald Monks looking at me worriedly with wide eyes. "Do any of you know another way out?" They all shook their heads. "This is as far as we''ve ever ventured," Yong Ming said. "Well," I said. "We have two choices. We can stay here and take our chances with the Emperor faction, waiting for help to arrive. Or we can press deeper and see if there''s another exit." All the monks started speaking over each other. "We should stay." "What if help doesn''t come?" "I don''t want to die!" "Master Xiang will find us." "I won''t wait. We need to move." "But the cursed elves¡­" "Hang on," I interrupted. "Cursed elves? Like dark elves?" "No," Yong Ming replied. "We call them cursed elves because they are dark elven that have been overexposed to the crystals in these mines. They are scavengers of the dead that only come out at night." I blinked into the Jingozi arena and walked straight in the opposite direction of the cave entrance. Keeping an eye on the North Star, I scoured the tunnels reflected in the floor for any alternative exits¡ªor other signs of life. After an hour or so, I found them¡­ elves¡­ and something else... Chapter 46: TRUST Chapter 46: TRUST
Cursed elves looked exactly like I''d imagined¡ªfrom a horror movie. They were pale, almost translucent, with a bat-like, cave-dweller appearance. Their thin and slick lavender skin made them sickly and corpse-like. They appeared more feral, with elongated limbs, sharp claws, and a skeletal, hunched posture. Their faces were gaunt, with large, leathery ears, sharp teeth, and wide, gaping mouths. I counted about a dozen crawling up the tunnels in our direction. I fought the urge to wretch from what I saw next. In a muddy pit that sank deep into the ground, dozens of cursed elves lay intertwined around a Jingozi at the center of a mountain of octranite. It was like a pile of treasure so big, you''d expect a dragon from a fantasy game to swoop down and sit on top of it. And mixed with the glowing shards were bones, weapons, and suits I recognized¡ªAmazonian armor. These elves must''ve dragged the dead Amazons here. The Jingozi''s cloak was extended, wrapping around the spaghetti of torsos and limbs of the cursed elves in a grotesque embrace. Its bony hands caressed the creatures in its embrace. Its metallic mask, resembling a horned bird-like skull, tilted back, staring upward out of the pit¡ªright at me. It was like getting caught watching some unholy orgy from above, a twisted fusion of flesh and fabric that defied comprehension. What the actual f¡ª A shimmer caught my eye. I almost missed it. But tilting my head, there it was, in the reflection on the arena floor right over the location of the pit. My eyes widened as I knelt, touching the pulsing spot. Could it be? We might have a way out of this nightmare if I was right. I blinked out of the Jingozi arena, my eyes refocusing on the concerned faces of the monks around me. "Okay, brother Monks, I''ve got good news and bad news," I said. "The bad news is that, yes, cursed elves are coming our way. I figure we have little time before they reach us." One of the Monks was about to pass out. Another started to hyperventilate and babbled in another language. "Before I share the good news, I have a question," I continued. "How many of you know how to open a nexus portal?" "We all do," one Monk spoke up. "It''s a core discipline of Zii-Chi and our duty as temple monks." That was the answer I was looking for. It also explained why the northern factions wanted control of the temple. They''d only need a few Monks to betray their faction to operate the portals. "Thank you¡­ I''m sorry¡­ your name is?" I asked. "Fung." "Right on, brother Fung," I attempted a fist bump, which he ignored. "The good news is there''s a nexus. And that''s what we''ll use to create a portal out of here." The Monks broke out in nervous murmurs. I consciously omitted the detail that the nexus was in a pit filled with cursed elves doing God-knows-what with a Jingozi. "Hey, look," I said. "I know you''re scared. And I''m terrified, too. But I''m not gonna die down here¡ªI''ve got unfinished business up there¡ªso we''re all getting out. Remember, I''m a Jingozi apprentice¡­" I loaded my hand with a flaming Jingozi card for dramatic effect, causing them to step back in panic. Yong Ming grabbed my wrist and shook his head. "You must not use fire," he whispered. "The deeper we go, the more unstable the octranite, and your Jingozi abilities release too much energy." I nodded and unloaded my cards. Yong Ming turned to his fellow Monks and spoke in another language. Their faces changed from fear to quiet resignation. Yong Ming turned to me and gave me a fist bump. "What did you tell them?" I asked. "I told them to trust." "Trust?" "Yes. If the nexus trusts you, so shall we." * * * I held my breath. Four cursed elves crawled past our hiding spot behind the crystal formations. The eerie silence was broken by sharp claws scraping on the stones like knives on a dinner plate, making my skin crawl. Just when I thought we were in the clear, they stopped. My heart pounded so loudly that I was convinced they''d hear it. After several agonizing moments, they moved on. I watched them disappear into the dark, exhaled slowly, and gestured for the Monks to follow. We inched forward, careful not to make a sound. A Monk''s foot caught a loose crystal shard, sending it bouncing. Clink. The sound might as well have been a thunderclap. The four cursed elves whipped around, their sunken eyes locking onto the Monk. They charged on all fours without a sound, moving as one horrifying unit. I blinked behind them, unsheathing my sword, and charged it with a Jingozi card. The blade hummed with energy as I swung it in a wide arc. To my surprise, all four heads severed with ease, as if I''d sliced through rotten watermelons. The Monk scrambled out from under the headless bodies, his robes stained dark red in the rainbow glow of the crystals. I stood there, sword dripping, shocked at how easily they''d been dispatched. These creatures were nothing more than fragile shells filled with blood. Twelve Jingozi tokens floated on the ground where the cursed elves had fallen. That was odd. I''d only ever earned tokens during my trials when the Jingozi sent dark elves to ambush Kitty and me. Why would killing these creatures yield the same reward? Curious, I held out my hand. The coins leaped into my palm as if magnetized, then vanished into my inventory with a familiar tingle. I turned to the Monks.The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. I was met with looks of abject horror. The Monk I''d saved jittered uncontrollably, his eyes fixed on the headless bodies at my feet. The others huddled together, whispering frantically. "We need to keep moving," I said. "There''s going to be¡­" Something was... off. The crystals beside me had begun to vibrate, emitting a low hum that I felt on the back of my neck. They called to me, pulling at my consciousness. Against my better judgment, I reached out and touched one. A flurry of whispered voices flooded my mind¡ªtoo many to count. They overlapped, creating a cacophony of ghostly sounds that made me want to claw at my ears. I couldn''t distinguish what was being said until three words came through with chilling clarity. We see you. I yanked my hand back, shuddering violently. The voices lingered, echoing in my head like a bad dream. I shook myself, trying to clear the sensation. "Did any of you hear that?" I asked. The Monks shook their heads, looking more confused. "We need to go," I said with urgency. "Now." * * * Blinking in and out of the Jingozi arena, I navigated us through the labyrinth of tunnels and caverns. The unsettling silence and oppressive darkness were amplified by the voices in my head every time I brushed a crystal. I now understood why nobody wanted to come down here. The cursed elves continued to stalk us, their attacks more frequent with each wave. I''d long since abandoned any attempts at stealth. Instead, I stood my ground in the narrow confines of the tunnel, facing them head-on as they charged silently from the shadows. Their swift, silent approach was more unnerving than their gnashing teeth and thrashing claws. Drenched in blood and gore, bits of flesh slid off me everywhere. My Ninja suit would clean itself¡ªeventually. The Monks were also caked in guts and blood as they joined in, finishing off our assailants after my initial attack. By the third wave, we had it down to a process. The elves would lunge in, and I''d sidestep while slashing, sending them skidding behind me. The Monks would wait, holding crystal-spiked rocks and bludgeoning the wounded to death. A knot of dread formed in my throat when I saw the pit''s edge. The Monks were going to shit their pants for sure. I beckoned the Monks into a huddle, and we all took a knee. I gazed into each of their blood-smeared faces as I addressed them. "Fung, how close do you have to be to open a portal?" "We only have to see the nexus." "And how long does it take?" "Not very long with ten of us." "Okay, listen to me, all of you," I said, taking a long, hesitant breath. "You''re about to see something that will freak you out. But no matter what, stay focused. Do you understand?" Every Monk nodded in unison. "You all sneak up to the ledge up there," I continued. "The nexus is in the pit but filled with cursed elves. I''ll hold them off while you open the portal." They nodded again. "Yong Ming," I handed him the machete from my inventory. "Do you know how to use this?" "Of course," he said. "Okay, just in case. And remember, whatever you see, do not freak out. Just trust me, okay?" * * * LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Doctrine Dealer] Tier: II [Bronze] Rank 4 FEAT COMPLETE: EXPLORE THE NEXUS Visit 3 nexus locations. Bonus: Additional rewards are granted for every nexus you find from this point. 5th nexus found: Crystal Caverns FEAT REWARD: CRYSTALMANCY You have unlocked the Crystalmancer technique and can now craft with octranite. As soon as we reached the nexus, every last Monk, except Yong Ming, completely freaked out. The scene unfolding before us was even more vile and repulsive than the frozen snapshot from the Jingozi arena. It was a nightmarish visual that assaulted every one of my senses. A grotesque mash of moist bodies, black cloak tendrils, and glittering crystal shards writhed and pulsated like a clump of oversized, putrid purple worms in a bowl of cereal. Name: ??? [Judgment Dealer] Tier: VII [Obsidian] Rank ??? Faction: Jingozi [Chaos] The mass undulated in a sickening rhythm as the Jingozi leaned back, its metallic skull mask gleaming as it presumably experienced some form of depraved ecstasy. Its bony hands twitched in the air. The stench of decay and something far worse filled my nostrils, and I had to fight hard to suppress a violent gag. The Monks stood frozen, their faces aghast, gawking in horror. I clenched my sword, trying to steady myself against the waves of visceral revulsion. A Monk named Yin fainted and fell off the ledge, splashing into a pile of crystals. It was like throwing live bait into a pool of piranhas. They instantly swarmed the Monk, tearing him apart in a frenzy of fangs and claws. He didn''t scream, only staring up at us, eyes wide in shock. "Dammit, Yin," I muttered, before another Monk started to scream. The horde focused on him and climbed the walls. Yong Ming fumbled the machete and barked something in their language, snapping the group into focus. One by one, they started chanting. But that only created nine more audible targets for the cursed elves to lock onto. "Hey, assholes!" I screamed. "Over here!" The swarm shifted directions for a moment, but the chanting became louder. Each monk had several cursed elves scaling toward him. Throwing my cards risked striking a crystal and blowing up the whole room, so I blinked back and forth, cutting down any of them that came close. Like a whirlpool, a swirl of energy started to form right above the Jingozi. Through the shimmering lights, the Jingozi stared at me without moving. But the pit spawned an endless supply of the cursed elves, swarming like bugs. I kept yelling every shred of profanity I could think of, trying to keep their attention. Another Monk fell, dragged down, disappearing into the throng of predators. Opening the portal was going to take longer. My only other option was to blow the whole place and hope my Ninja suit''s fire resistance would protect me. At least that would be a swift death for the Monks. AUTO DODGE: SUCCESSFUL Card Discarded [3/3] 100% AUTO DODGE: SUCCESSFUL Card Discarded [4/6] 66% AUTO DODGE: UNSUCCESSFUL Card Discarded [3/4] 75% Three cursed elves pounced. I managed to evade two, but the third sank its ravening maw into my forearm. I grunted and blinked away before it could do worse. But that left a Monk vulnerable, and they were on top of him. I cocked my arm, ready to fire a card. A silver flash zipped through the air around the Monk, shredding the elves into fleshy ribbons. It was Kitty, screeching with a fury I''d never heard before, now a whirlwind of razor-sharp scales. She flashed to another elf about to pounce on a Monk, digging her claws into its neck while spinning her tail to shear another''s jaw clean off. But even with her new ability to fly and lightning-fast reflexes, she was too late¡ªanother elf bit into the Monk''s shoulder from behind. I winced as the sickening squelch of teeth punctured to the bone, the Monk''s cry of pain turning into a gurgle as claws raked his throat. I blinked into the Jingozi arena. Come on, think Ember. I paced the obsidian floor, examining my remaining cards and analyzing the situation. The cursed elves were spawning from the pit at an incomprehensible rate. I thought about asking the voice, but we weren''t really on speaking terms, and he''d give me some bullshit advice anyway¡ªnever directly getting involved. It''s time for the nuclear option. I blinked back. "Stop!" I shrieked, holding up a football-sized chunk of octranite crystal with a flaming Jingozi card. It worked. All the cursed elves cowered in place. It was a gamble, but I was right that they shared a hive mind through the crystals. "We see you¡­" the voices whispered into my ear. "If you can read my mind," I growled, "you know damn well I will torch this whole place to hell." "No¡­" the voices trailed. "Then let us go." "Go¡­" "Open the portal," I called to Yong Ming, who signaled others to keep chanting. The portal continued to form until an image of tiled floors appeared in its center. "What are you waiting for?" I barked. The Monks jumped in. "Kitty!" I called. She flew over and wrapped herself around my shoulders, squeaking with urgency. "Ember¡­" the voices slipped into my mind once more. "Yong Ming?" I yelled, "What are you waiting for? Go!" The Monk turned to me, his eyes glassy, and shook his head without breaking the chant. The realization slapped me in the face. Someone needs to keep the portal open. Still chanting, he extended his fist. I bumped it with mine and bowed. "You will never go home¡­ Ember¡­ never¡­" the crystal whispered. "Thank you for your trust, Yong Ming," I said, my voice barely audible over the hum of the portal. With a deep breath, I swan-dived off the ledge. But before I plunged into the swirling vortex, I fired a max-charged explosive shot, sending the card spiraling downward in a fiery arc. Chapter 47: MASK Chapter 47: MASK
With a bone-jarring thud, I slammed onto the stone floor of Radiant Temple. Groaning, I pushed myself on my elbows, blinking to clear my vision. MISSION COMPLETE: MONK MINER RESCUE Rescue the Monk mining team from the Emperor faction. Master Xiang and others tended to the six surviving Monks. Aside from some bruises, they appeared relatively unscathed¡ªexcept for the expressions of shock frozen on their faces. Before I could fully process the scene, Cragmarr knelt beside me. I was glad to see him. The room shook violently as if gripped by an earthquake. The tremors coursed through my body, rattling my teeth. Raining down from the cracking ceiling, dust and chunks of debris peppered the floor. Cragmarr instinctively stretched over me, his body forming a protective shield. I could hear the clatter of falling stones against his back. Just as quickly as it had begun, the trembling ceased. I allowed myself a grim smile. FEAT ACHIEVED: JINGOZI DEATH You have killed a Jingozi in PVE. NEW TITLE AWARDED: JUDGMENT DEALER Level 5 Jingozi access and privileges granted. LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Judgment Dealer]* Tier: II [Bronze] Rank 2 Along with jumping two ranks, a star formed next to my name. "Ember!" Cragmarr exclaimed, scooping me up. I caught sight of Kaito''s worried face as he crouched, with Kitty floating above him like a silver canopy. "I''m fine," I mumbled, even as the room spun lazily around me. My limbs felt like lead, a dull ache pulsing behind my eyes. Master Xiang approached, his brow furrowed with concern. I swallowed hard, trying to focus. "What happened?" he asked, his voice gentle but urgent. "It was a trap," I explained, slurring slightly. "The Emperor faction... and cursed elves. We barely made it out." "Cursed elves?" "Yeah. Hundreds of them. And a Jingozi¡­" "Did you find the miners?" I asked Cragmarr. "Yes, they were unguarded," he nodded. "Sora?" "Yes, she succeeded as well." As I spoke, I realized I was still clutching the octranite shard from the caves. I stowed it in my inventory along with my sword. And that''s when I saw it and realized I''d missed the notification. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A JINGOZI MASK Jingozi Mask [Legendary] I summoned the Jingozi mask from my inventory, which materialized in my hand. It looked like a pterodactyl skull with rows of jagged teeth and dozens of long horns flaring backward. I stared at it, my heart pounding in my chest. The room fell silent. Master Xiang''s eyes widened as he took a cautious step back. Cragmarr''s orange marble eyes swirled faster, his usually stoic expression betraying a flicker of surprise. Kaito''s mouth hung open. "Is that...?" Kaito began but trailed off, unable to find the words. Nobody moved. Nobody spoke. It felt like an eternity stretched out in the space between breaths. The silence grew awkward, almost suffocating. The Monks, silently watching from the side, exchanged bewildered glances. Even Sora, who had just entered the room unnoticed, stopped dead in her tracks. I could feel everyone''s eyes boring into me like I was some alien creature that had just landed among them. The mask felt heavy in my hand, its jagged teeth glinting menacingly. "Ember," Master Xiang finally said, his voice barely above a whisper, "Where did you get that?" I swallowed hard, trying to find my voice amidst the cacophony of thoughts racing through my mind. "In the caves," I managed to say. "After I killed the Jingozi." Cragmarr''s gaze shifted from the mask to my face and back again. "This is... unprecedented." After storing the mask, I looked around at the faces staring back at me¡ªfaces filled with confusion, fear, and perhaps even awe. "We need to understand what this means," Master Xiang said cautiously. I nodded slowly. A sharp sting radiated from my forearm. Rolling up my sleeve revealed the bite marks from the cursed elf. The puncture wounds bubbled with black ichor. "She has been bitten," Cragmarr said. "If it was a cursed elf," Master Xiang whispered, "she has been poisoned." "Poisoned?" I said, standing up. "I told you, I''m¡ª" The world tilted sharply. My legs buckled beneath me, and I felt myself falling again¡­ * * * I hadn''t dreamed once since coming to this world. This fact felt inexplicably significant, though I couldn''t pinpoint why. Back home, I always dreamed. Vivid, colorful dreams each night. I''d even kept a dream journal, its pages filled with descriptions and sketches. I pored over books on dream interpretation, fascinated by the hidden meanings lurking in our subconscious. But here? Nothing. Just an endless dreamless void¡ªwhen I slept, that is. Here, I had visions. These weren''t the hazy, illogical narratives of dreams. No, the visions were always sharp, visceral, and shockingly real.The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement. I was drowning in a sea of vibrant, pulsating colors. It wasn''t the Jingozi arena. Figures emerged from the darkness, their forms shifting and morphing in a kaleidoscope of hues¡ªcursed elves. They reached for me, their elongated fingers grasping and clawing. I didn''t bother screaming because, somehow, I knew no sound would escape my lips. The elves snapped their jaws, gnashing razor-sharp teeth as they attempted to drag me into a bottomless pit. I tried to load my Jingozi cards, but it was as if my brain disconnected from my body. I looked down into the abyss. The giant Jingozi mask from my inventory, now the size of a swimming pool, emerged from the mound of rainbow crystal shards. It stared back at me with empty eye sockets swirling in infinite darkness. But I wasn''t afraid. Instead, the sight filled me with a primal, overwhelming rage. "You will never go home¡­ Ember¡­ never¡­" the mask bellowed. I bolted upright, releasing a guttural roar. My eyes darted around wildly, taking in my surroundings. I was in my bed at Radiant Temple, drenched in sweat. A red wisp of smoke trailed from a gash in the wall where I''d thrown a Jingozi card. "Breathe, my child," a familiar voice soothed. I stared in awe as Katorro sat beside my bed, his ancient, wrinkled hands gently but firmly grasping my forearm. A soft, mesmerizing red glow emanated from his palms. I watched, transfixed, as the angry black punctures knit together before my eyes. The throbbing ebbed away, replaced by a warm, tingling sensation. Only a semicircle of round scars remained, and even those would be gone by the next time I leveled up. Kitty hovered nearby, her long snout twitching with concern. I patted her head, and she purred, settling onto my lap. "What... what happened?" I croaked, my throat dry and raw. "Poisoned by cursed elf blood," Katorro explained. "You should be dead, but the nexus spared you." I checked my notifications log. FEAT REWARD: CRYSTALMANCY You have unlocked the Crystalmancer technique. Cyrstalmancy? I''d have to look into that later. I also checked my inventory. INVENTORY [NINJA KIMONO]: CURRENCY: 267 Jingozi tokens? Did I kill that many cursed elves? "The crystals in the mine," I said. "They spoke to me¡­ of horrible things." "It was the nexus speaking," he replied. "It, too, has been poisoned." "What is a nexus?" "Places where dimensions connect, where the Zii is most potent." "Why does it give me abilities?" "A nexus is not a thing. It is an entity. It feels and flows like us. And it does what it needs. Gives what it wants." I didn''t respond, still in a daze, trying to gather my thoughts. "You have done well. I sense more power in you. But the journey is far from complete." "What do you mean¡ª" After a brief knock, the door creaked open. A Monk entered with an apologetic bow. "Master Katorro, forgive me for disturbing you," he said. "Miss Ember, you have a guest." * * * I meandered through the temple''s lotus gardens with Jon Deerfoot, the fragrant blossoms filling the air with perfume. As we wandered, our footsteps led us to a secluded spot on an ornate wooden bridge arching over a serene pond. Jon paused to take in the view. "Now I know what all the fuss is about," he smiled and turned to lean on the railing. Jon stood before me in a simple ensemble¡ªa rich purple leather jacket draped over a crisp white shirt paired with sleek black pants. His wand, as always, hung at his side. His long, platinum hair, tied back in a neat ponytail, emphasized his elongated, pointy ears. There was something different about him, though. He looked... softer, more at peace. "How did you find me?" I asked, scrutinizing every inch of him, searching for any hint of deception or hidden agenda. "Your friend, the Golem, found me. Lovely fellow. A little rough around the edges, wouldn''t you say?" he winked and paused for my response. I crossed my arms as he smirked at his joke. "Your ward followed us to Emperia and then threatened to grind me to dust if I didn''t divulge your plan. He told me I should seek him here if I received any word." "And did you?" "Did I what?" he smiled. "Receive any word?" I groaned. "The word is that you fell to your death with the old man. Nobody survives that fall." "Katorro." "I beg your pardon?" "The old man, his name''s Katorro," I said, perturbed. "That was him in my room." "Of course he is, my dear," he chuckled. "But I must say, you risked having your head put on a spike, or worse, for that relic?" I glared at the elf. "Alright," Jon conceded. "I''m confident you had your reasons. Whatever they were, it was a morbid curiosity that beckoned me here. Something told me you''d escape the clutches of death." I gave him a wry smile. "I know you''re not from this dimension," he continued. "You''re from a place called Earth, and you''re trapped here until you win a Jingozi tournament." "Then you know what I have to do." "Very well, what is your plan?" he asked. "We stop Overlord Edric first," my tone darkened. "He''s kidnapping children for some reason." Jon''s face turned grim. "Necrolords," he whispered. "What?" "We Emperors have a class, long believed forgotten¡­ Necrolords. Rulers obsessed with arcane magic and harnessing death itself." "What does he do with them?" Jon shook his head solemnly. "Why?" I stiffened. "The innocent blood of my enemies," Jon said. ¡°The more powerful the enemy, the more innocent the blood, and the more powerful the sacrifice. There are mercenaries in our faction that specialize in the horrid trade¡­ like Valen." ¡°I¡¯ll defeat him then.¡± "You can''t beat him," Jon called. "If he has begun his descent, killing him only seals the pact and completes the transformation." Before I could process the implications, I heard rapid footsteps approaching. "Ember!" Kaito came running towards me, his face flushed with exertion. He skidded to a stop, his eyes darting suspiciously between Jon and me. His brow furrowed as he took in the elf''s presence. "Ember," Kaito panted. "You need to come quick." * * * "As an emissary of the Emperor Overlord Edric, we demand you surrender the one named Ember!" Hiding behind the wall on the rampart, I didn''t need to see him to recognize that voice again¡ªLance the Lightslayer. I blinked into the Jingozi arena to scan the scene before the temple gates. Lance the Lightslayer stood alone in the road, a short distance from the front gate. Three stripped and blindfolded Monks knelt at his feet, their heads bowed in silent prayer. I blinked back and loaded my Jingozi hand, staying out of sight. Cragmarr nodded at me and loaded his hand as well. "Who is that?" Kaito asked. "I do not know," Master Xiang replied. "I''ve seen him at a Jingozi exhibition before," Sora said. "A Jingozi grandmaster." "That, my friends, is Lance the Lightslayer," Jon''s voice came from behind us. "He is a religious zealot, insane if I may add, but one of the most feared henchmen for the Emperor faction." Everybody turned as Jon climbed up the steps to join us. "And you are?" Kaito asked, stepping in front of me. "Everybody, this is my¡­ friend, Jon Deerfoot," I said. "He helped me rescue Katorro." Jon bowed slightly and then waved to Cragmarr, who grunted in return. "There is nobody here by that name." Master Xiang yelled, stepping up to present himself. "The Emperor faction has no business here." "It is a sin to deceive me, Monk," Lance''s voice boomed. "By Jingozi decree, I am here to collect this contract." "What is that?" Kaito asked. "Haven''t you seen a Jingozi contract before, my young Ninja?" Jon said. Kaito stiffened and glared. But before he could respond to the elf, I blinked back into the Jingozi arena, my stomach dropping¡ªthat damned contract I signed to kill Jon. Lance held it high with a grin like a winning lottery ticket. That''s how they tracked me. "Valen¡­" I blinked back and interrupted Kaito''s words. "He must''ve given it to them." "Sold it more likely," Jon said. "I warned you about this." "Taking the miners hostage was a trap to lure Ember out," Sora remarked. "Indeed," Cragmar nodded. "Do not show yourself, Em. We can find another way. We will take the tunnels like last time." "It''s too late," Jon shook his head. "That contract can track her anywhere in this dimension." "Ember, we can guard you and defend the temple," Master Xiang said. "We will not bow¡ª" I stood up, revealing myself to Lance. His eyes locked onto me with a smile. Lance''s mace came crashing down on the first Monk''s head with a sickening crunch. I felt my stomach lurch, bile rising in my throat as the Monk fell forward, scattering pieces of his skull like a jar of jam shattering on the floor. The sheer violence of the act left me paralyzed. "No¡­" Master Xiang whispered, his eyes wide in shock. "For every moment you delay," Lance snarled, "another heathen receives judgment." He raised his weapon again, poised to strike the second monk. "Lightslayer," a voice called. Lance''s mace stopped mid-swing, inches from the Monk''s head, as he spotted Katorro hobbling toward him from the gate. "Master Katorro," Lance''s voice changed to a respectful tone. "I was pleased to hear of your escape. The one who nearly slayed the Emperor Overlord. Finally, a worthy adversary." Katorro didn''t respond. Instead, he shuffled up to the remaining two kneeling Monks, removed their blindfolds, and helped them to their feet. Terrified, the Monks cringed, looking back at their captor and would-be executioner. Lance stood motionless, his eyes locked on Katorro. After a nod from the old man, they bolted through the gate into the temple. Katorro put his hands on his back with an exaggerated stretch. Lance remained still with no reaction. "As you can see, I am no longer the challenge I once was," Katorro spread his hands. "We both know that is untrue," Lance said. "Perhaps." "Give me the girl. She has already done enough damage to my men. Or I will have no choice but to bring an army. By the time I am done, in the name of Zebelma, I will¡ª" "I agree to your terms," Katorro interrupted. "I will convince her that it is best to surrender to you in exchange for the lives within these temple walls and anybody else in your path." "What?" I exclaimed from the top of the wall. Cragmarr and Kaito frowned as well. Lance stepped back to contemplate Katorro''s words suspiciously. He glanced up at me, studying my reaction. "How can I be assured you will keep your word?" he asked. "We are both men of honor, Lightslayer. You are also devout beyond measure and would pursue Ember to the ends of the dimension." "You are wise, Master Katorro." "I am but an old man, my friend. It seems wisdom is all that remains." "Very well," Lance turned to walk away, "I will return by nightfall." Without looking back, he shouted for the rest of us, "I will also bring my army, and if I am betrayed, not a single soul in your temple shall be spared." Katorro watched Lance stroll away. What the hell are you thinking, Katorro? Chapter 48: Kazeshima Chapter 48: Kazeshima
I stood at the end of the table, my eyes fixed on Katorro as he nonchalantly finished his rice bowl. Jon sat across from him, sipping from a flask with mild curiosity. Flanked by Kaito and Cragmarr, the sight of Katorro''s calm demeanor only fueled my angst. "Why would you give me up like that?" I demanded. ¡°Surrender?" Katorro set down his chopsticks. A flicker of amusement crossed his face. "I know," he said. "I anticipated you would do something rash to save the Monks. Was I wrong?" "No," I admitted. "I have no intention of upholding the agreement." His words caught me off guard, and my anger dissipated, replaced by confusion. "But... you told Lance you were a man of honor," I said. "Vanity and self-righteousness are weaknesses, Ember. A code of honor doesn''t bind the Ninja faction." "So what''s the plan? What are we really going to do?" "I will use a nexus portal to send you to the southern kingdoms to complete your training. To pursue you, the Lightslayer will require a lunar cycle to send his army through hostile territory." "A lunar cycle is two fortnights¡ªtwenty-eight days," Cragmarr said. "How far are you sending me?" I asked. "To my temple in Kazeshima," Katorro replied. "Kazeshima is an island in the southernmost region," Cragmarr added. "The Amazon faction surrounds it." I gave Cragmarr a worried look. The last thing I needed was to run into Amazons after recent events¡ªand Kyra. "Leave quickly then," Jon said, "before Lance can rally and organize his army. The Jingozi contract will betray your plan. Upon the revelation that Ember is gone, Lance will seek retribution." "The rest of us shall stay," Katorro replied, "to defend the temple." As I processed the information, Jon Deerfoot stood with a curt bow. "I never thought you''d ask," he said. "Yes, I, Jon Deerfoot, agree to accompany Ember on her journey." "We didn''t ask," Kaito groaned. Cragmarr nodded. "If she is to face Overlord Edric," Jon continued, "who better to prepare her than a humble elven Jingozi apprentice of the same faction?" Cragmarr and Kaito voiced their protests, their words overlapping with concern. Katorro silenced them with a simple raised hand. "No," he said, pointing his finger at Jon. "If you want to assist, your best place is here. She must go alone." "Master Katorro, as Ember''s ward, I must express my concerns," Cragmarr said. "Your assignment is ending, Golem," Katorro replied. "You, most of all, know this. Do not let your feelings cloud your judgment in this matter. You may join her after if you so wish." Cragmarr hung his head and stepped away. Kaito joined him. "Sora," Katorro called. "Yes, Master Katorro," she emerged from the shadows, ever the silent observer. "Prepare Ember for the Crucible. She must depart immediately." * * * "The Crucible is a Jingozi fortress in the sky that hosts the Jingozi tournament," Sora explained. "You must become victorious for the reward back to your dimension." I followed Sora down the hallway, my mind still reeling. Her lecture felt heavy and charged with emotions. "Upon reaching tier 3 rank 1, the Jingozi will summon you for the final test¡ªthe tournament," she said. "You will spend the last levels learning and training for the game." As we entered Sora''s chambers, she stopped and sighed heavily, her back still turned. "I don''t hate you," she sighed. "When I served as a vessel, I awoke, and my life was gone," she paused, taking another deep breath. "My consciousness returned, and I found myself by a nexus. I searched for my family, but without me¡­ they died or worse¡­ abandoned me. But what good are these powers if you have nothing?"If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. I felt goosebumps spread down my arms, listening to her words. "Because of this, I despise the Jingozi and vow to take revenge," she continued. "You remind me of what I lost and gained. Your host will go through the same when you leave. But I believe you will succeed, and we will have another ally in our cause. That''s why I push you to become stronger. And look at what you''ve achieved. Nobody has taken a Jingozi life before." She walked to a large trunk and pulled out a package wrapped in cloth. "This is for you," she said, her voice kinder than I''d ever heard. "A token from Taikumi and the guild." I unwrapped the package, revealing a sleek, black Ninja suit reinforced with red accents and patches of armor. As I ran my fingers over it, I could feel the hum of Zii magic coursing through the material. "Try it on," Sora urged. I put the suit in my inventory and activated it, swapping out my Ninja kimono. It automatically molded for a perfect fit. YOU HAVE RECEIVED NEW ARMOR Ninja Stealth Armor [Elite] "It will mirror any disguise you see while maintaining its protection," Sora said. "Wow. Thank you." "Thank Taikumi, not me." When Sora''s eyes met mine, for the first time, I saw a glimmer of emotion other than anger and contempt for me. I reached out and squeezed her hand, wordlessly acknowledging her pain and her hope. * * * I stood in the great hall of the Radiant Temple, filled with ambivalence as I faced Cragmarr, Kaito, Master Xiang, Katorro, and Sora. Unsurprisingly, Jon was absent, but I pushed the thought aside. "I''m sorry for all the trouble I''ve caused," I said, bowing to Master Xiang. My hands were clammy, and I resisted the urge to wipe them on my new Ninja armor. Master Xiang''s kind eyes met mine as he shook his head. "Nonsense, sister. It is our honor to return our service after all you did for us," he said. The others nodded in agreement, as I felt a lump in my throat. "Well, I guess this is another goodbye," Kaito said. "Not goodbye, just a pause," I winked. We shared an embrace. I straightened and turned to face Katorro, "Will we ever see each other again?" "You will not, but you will find your champion. I have foreseen it." I glanced at Sora and said, "Find me. Find this vessel when it''s all over and take care of her." She gave a curt nod, her face back to being as unreadable as ever. Cragmarr stepped forward and put his hands on my shoulders. His orange eyes swirled. "Be careful," he said. "I''ve been shitty to you," I said. "I¡¯m sorry. We''re good, right?" "We are," he smiled. Katorro began the Zii-Kata, and a shimmering portal formed before us. "Kitty," I called. Floating down from the ceiling, I summoned her into my familiar ring. I looked at the group one last time, my makeshift family in this strange world. "Goodbye, everyone. Thank you for everything." Though the words felt inadequate. Out of nowhere, Jon Deerfoot raced past me, barreling into the swirling vortex. "See you on the other side!" his voice faded into the void. I glanced back at the others, seeing my own surprise mirrored on their faces¡ªeveryone''s except Master Xiang''s, who burst into laughter. I slapped Kaito on the shoulder while the Ninja threw his hands up in exasperation. I took a deep breath. With one final nod to my friends, I stepped through the portal. * * * LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Judgment Dealer]* Tier: 2 [Bronze] Rank 1 FEAT COMPLETE: EXPLORE THE NEXUS Visit 3 nexus locations. Bonus: Additional rewards are granted for every nexus you find from this point. Nexus found [6]: Fire Seer FEAT REWARD: FIRE SIGHT See into the fires of another''s heart and share your vision. I stumbled out of the portal, tripping over Jon, who had landed unceremoniously on his backside. As my eyes adjusted to the bright sunlight, I took in our surroundings with immediate dismay. "What the hell is wrong with you, Jon?" The elf shrugged, feigning innocence. "Why, Ember, my dear, you didn''t think I''d just let you have all the fun? Did you?" As annoyed as I was, I admitted having company right now was welcome. But I still didn''t trust him. He sat there, staring at me like I was an alien. "What is it?" I snapped. "Your eyes¡­" I summoned the ninjato from my inventory, unsheathed it, and checked my reflection in the blade¡ªmy eyes had the same fire effect as Katorro''s. "Looks like the old Ninja Master has surprises for you yet," Jon remarked. We stood and dusted ourselves off in what must have once been a grand courtyard, now reduced to a depressing state of decay. It looked like a traditional Samurai estate, its roof long since collapsed, leaving gaping holes where carved beams had once supported roofing shingles. Weeds sprouted from every crack and crevice, nature reclaiming what had been abandoned. Broken pottery and rotting wooden furniture littered the overgrown grounds. A rusted katana lay half-buried in the tall grass. There was, however, a fountain bubbling with what appeared to be clean water. That aside, the air was musty and stagnant, mingling with the salty tang of the sea. "Well, this is... charming," Jon quipped, retying his ponytail after pulling thistles out of his hair. I ignored him, moving towards what appeared to be the remains of a garden. Moss-covered statues, their features worn smooth by time and weather, stood sentinel among the wildflowers and weeds. Beyond, a steep cliff dropped away to reveal a breathtaking ocean view, the sound of waves crashing against jagged rocks far below. The tropical heat pressed down on me, so different from the temperate climate we''d left behind. Sweat beaded on my forehead as I turned in a slow circle, trying to make sense of our surroundings. "And what am I supposed to do now?" I muttered. "Katorro clearly hasn''t lived here in years." I felt a pang of worry. Was it some test? We were stranded in an unfamiliar place without a clear direction. * * * As Katorro had promised, he marooned us on an island. To get a better grasp of our surroundings, I walked the perimeter of the estate on foot to stretch my legs. The complex was more extensive than I''d initially thought, consisting of multiple interconnected units around a central courtyard. Encircling the whole property was a crumbling wall, its weathered stones a reminder of neglect. I sat sullenly on a stump in the courtyard. "Kazeshima, also known as ''Windy Island,'' is the southernmost point in the known kingdoms," Jon said. "They say if you stand in the wrong place, the gusts will pick you up and throw you into the sea." I barely heard what he was saying. "I give up," I said, standing up. "I''m going to bed. And don''t even think of trying anything funny." Chapter 49: CONCEDE Chapter 49: CONCEDE
A Jingozi awaited in the morning, hovering in the courtyard. "It''s been a long time, Jingo," I snarked. "Where ya been? I missed you." By now, I was improving at distinguishing the Jingozi based on their masks. My Jingozi''s mask had horns that spiraled like a goat¡ªstill creepy, but I was getting used to the sight¡ªeven the floating and writhing cloak tendrils didn''t bother me as much. "You lag," it spoke with a deep, ghostly tone. "Zii-Kata¡­ I got it. Hot girl walks first, remember?" Jon emerged from his makeshift sleeping quarters. "What''s all the noise¡­ oh," Jon said upon seeing the Jingozi. "I was curious when you''d show up. I can see you two have affairs to settle. I''ll let you¡­ erm¡­ catch up. I could use more sleep anyway." He turned back inside. The Jingozi extended its hands. From its cloak, a Jingozi deck box emerged and floated towards me. It opened as I touched it. LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Judgment Dealer]* Tier: III [Steel] Rank 10 FEAT COMPLETE: NEW TIER You have achieved a new tier. Deck and stat upgrades are available. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A JINGOZI BUFF CARD [NINJA] [DEFENSE META] This card will add a passive bonus to your entire deck during PVE. Option 1: Auto Block Your top five cards give you a chance to block all attacks automatically. Block percent is based on attack over defense score. The defense score must be equal to or greater than the attack. The card is discarded after one activation. Option 2: Card Reserve Choose one card in your deck to access when needed. This can only be activated once per day. It cannot be used to deliver a direct killing blow. The card is discarded when played. Option 3: Shield Ally Your top five cards have a chance to intercept an attack on an ally. Only one ally can be protected at a time. Intercept percent is based on attack over defense score. The defense score must be equal to or greater than the attack. The card is discarded after one activation. Option two was too tempting to pass up. I thought of Ryuunosuke, who accessed his Samurai champion at will. Instead of leaving it to chance and cycling through my deck, having a spell like [Silence] or [Evolve] handy could be invaluable. I mentally selected Option 2: Card Reserve. DO YOU SELECT [OPTION 2: CARD RESERVE]? Choose one card in your deck to access when needed. This can only be activated once per day. It cannot be used to deliver a direct killing blow. The card is discarded when played. [Yes/No] YOU HAVE RECEIVED THE CARD RESERVE BUFF [NINJA] [DEFENSE META] Choose one card in your deck to access when needed. This can only be activated once per day. It cannot be used to deliver a direct killing blow. The card is discarded when played. "Zii-Kata," the Jingozi whispered. When I looked up, it was gone. I sat down, cross-legged, and blinked into the Jingozi arena. "Hello?" I called to the voice I now knew as Alphathir. "I''m here for my gift evolution." No answer. Well, Ember Lynn, it looks like you chased another guy out of your life, being a total bitch.A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. I decided to peek in on Jon. Through the gaps in the roof, I saw him lounging on his back with his hands behind his head. "If you weren''t such a criminal, Jon¡­" "I may be a scoundrel, but I take exception to being branded a common criminal," Jon''s voice echoed. I spun, looking for anybody else in the arena. I was alone. "Um, Jon? Can you hear me?" "Ember? Are you trying to be droll? You can hear yourself, can''t you?" Holy shit. I did a doubletake and squinted, focusing on Jon''s reflection on the arena floor. Like the rest of that moment, he was in suspended animation. My gift worked as usual. Only now, I could talk to the reflections. Is this my gift evolution? "Can you see me?" I asked. "Are you sure you''re all right? I can see you just as I can see this bottle of spiced wine. And if I may say, you look ravishing as usual." Does he think he''s dreaming? I blinked back to the courtyard and found Jon after bursting into his room. "Jon!" He startled awake. "What''s wrong?" he asked. "Do you remember having a conversation with me just now?" "How could we be conversing when I was perfectly comfortable having a morning snooze?" "I asked if you saw me¡­ spiced wine¡­ I looked ravishing¡­ remember?" "Come to think of it," he scratched his head. "That conversation sounds distinctly familiar. I remember thinking you''d hit your head or something. Maybe that night in Raishoto?" "Wait a second," I said, blinking into the Jingozi arena and zooming into his face. He definitely looked confused. "Ok, Jon," I said. "I think we need food. Did you bring rations, or should we go hunting or fishing?" "Rations don''t sound very appealing," he replied. "How about I see about hunting us some food? We can talk about your plan over breakfast. Sounds good?" I blinked back to Jon. "What are we waiting for?" he asked. "Hmmm?" "You just told me to wait a second. It''s been a second." "Do you remember having a conversation about hunting and fishing?" "Now that you mention it, I do recall such a conversation," he leaned back on his hands. "But I can''t, for my life, remember when." "Jon, I have something to tell you." * * * Over fire-roasted fish, I took a risk and explained everything about my gift to Jon, down to every last detail¡ªexcept for Alphathir. "That seems like quite the secret weapon," he said, picking a bone from his piece of fish. "And you said it evolves every tier?" "Yes, at first, I could only freeze time and observe while in the Jingozi arena," I explained. "At tier 2, I learned how to blink to different locations. And now, I can talk to the people I see from there." "You''re not talking to me, but to my mind." "I guess so." "Let''s test it. Go to¡­ wherever you go¡­" "The Jingozi arena." "Right. Tell me something I wouldn''t know¡ªsomething from your world." I blinked in and out, doing as Jon suggested. He took a moment to process what I told him in the arena. "It appears we''re both orphans," he smiled sympathetically. "Looks like it works," I said. "Yes, It does, but what if I didn''t know it was you?" he mused. "I''d be the one thinking I''ve gone mad with voices in my head." He was right. Using this gift created a moral dilemma. At best, it was the closest thing to a Jedi mind trick, and at worst, someone might think they''re having a schizophrenic episode. "I propose another test," Jon said. "Test?" JON DEERFOOT [EMPEROR] HAS CHALLENGED YOU TO A JINGOZI MATCH Do you accept? [Yes/No] * * * YOU HAVE ENTERED A JINGOZI MATCH Opponent(s): 1. Jon Deerfoot [Emperor] Unfortunately, my gifts didn''t work during PVP¡ªa Jingozi Match¡ªnor did any rings or deck buffs. I had to admit, the Jingozi designed a fair game. The fact that every player used the same card decks with equal battle points, spells, and starting Zii ensured nothing was pay-to-win like other card games on Earth. However, I appeared to be the only one with power cards, which was an advantage provided by Alphathir for some reason. Beyond my unique cards, if there was any potential advantage, it was the mental game¡ªagain, similar to poker, which is why some pros talk so much. Jon would¡¯ve been that kind of player¡ªthe talkative kind. Therefore, the player with the most mental fortitude gained the upper hand regardless of their cards. In poker, the legendary player Doyle Brunson used to say all you needed was a chip and a chair. Jingozi was no different. "Since we''re here, love," Jon grinned, "how about a little friendly contest?" "You''re on, elf," I said, loading my hand. Hand: [6/6] [0/6] [Death Strike] [0/7] [2/2] I decided to mulligan the [0/6] and [2/2]. Jon also swapped out two cards. Hand: [6/6] [Death Strike] [0/7] [3/1] [6/7] I was hoping for an [Evolve] to play with my [0/7], but the [6/7] did improve my hand. I was the first to act, playing a [3/1], and Jon played his. We flew towards each other. My flying sidekick glanced off his chest, winding him. He had played a [2/0] against my [3/1]. I was winning so far. My flying knee struck him in his chest, sending him sprawling backward. A single Zii exploded from the point of impact for my [3/1] winning reward score. EMBER [NINJA] WINS THE HAND Reward: 1 Zii I stood over him as the coin jumped into my extended palm. Jon picked himself off the arena floor and straightened his shirt. "Looks like the both of us are saving our best cards," he chuckled. "Cragmarr taught you well." "It was Yukiko, the battleaxe, remember?" "I deserved that one, then," he laughed. We both drew from our decks to reload our hands to five cards. Hand: [6/6] [Death Strike] [0/7] [6/7] [4/5] Jon loaded a card and committed it to play. I spun my [6/7] to make it a [7/6] and also committed the minimum 1 Zii. We both missed our attacks. He played a [7/5] to my [7/6]¡ªa tied turn, meaning the next round with another card. Jon was ready. Hand: [6/6] [Death Strike] [0/7] [4/5] My next best card was a [6/6], which I loaded, costing me another Zii. He jumped over my sweeping leg kick, driving his wand downward as he landed. The point of his wand tore through my shoulder. His card was a [7/4], beating my [6/6]. Wincing, I fell to one knee while catching the notification. POWER CARD IS AVAILABLE: Death Strike A flurry of thoughts flashed through my mind in an instant. Do I reveal to Jon the existence of my power cards? Do I want to win that badly? Damage during a match was not real. What could it hurt? I planned to tell him eventually. I played my [Death Strike], burning 5 Zii to add +5 to my attack, making it an [11/6] card to beat his [6/4]. Jon immediately knew something was wrong. He should''ve won the hand, but it wasn''t over as expected. Hie eyes widened as I launched into the air and drew my sword in one motion. The gleaming ninjato whistled through the air as I slashed across his chest, the razor-sharp edge slicing to the bone. The spray of blood following the arc of my swing hung in the air for a split second. His body, caught in the momentum of my strike, barrel-rolled backward. With a thud, he crashed onto the obsidian-like surface of the Jingozi floor. The impact didn''t stop him. He continued to roll, each rotation accompanied by a pained grunt. I stood there, frozen in place, my sword still extended from the follow-through. My eyes widened. The reality of what I''d just done hit me like a punch to the gut. Ignoring the Zii strewn out and floating inches off the floor, I was stunned, struggling to process the brutal impact of my actions. "Jon, I''m sorry. I didn''t mean to¡ª" "What was that?" he groaned. "I won that hand." "A power card." "Nonsense, such a thing does not exist." "I don''t know how," I shrugged. "It''s part of my gift." "More, Ember," he struggled to rise to his feet. "Show me." "No, Jon. I concede. Accept." "I refuse." "I''m serious. Accept, Jon." "Are you daft?" he spat. "I will not accept." "Then I''m not playing," my sword clattered onto the floor. "Then you are a fool." JON DEERFOOT ACCEPTS You have conceded the match. You cannot lose rank at rank 10. After we left the Jingozi match, Jon was furious. He marched straight forward and stuck a finger in my face. "Concede? How dare you?" he seethed. "I don''t want to fight you." "It''s not a fight. It''s a game, Ember. Look at me, not a scratch. The damage is not real, but the stakes are." "I know. But it feels real to me and the psychological damage... I''ve seen it before. I never asked for this power." "When you have a chance to win," he said through clenched teeth, "you take it. Never concede. Or they will destroy you." I tensed as Jon loaded a Jingozi card and powered his wand, the air sizzling with energy. Instinctively, I flinched, ready to dodge an attack. He stabbed the wand into the ground between us, the impact sending a shower of multicolored sparks dancing across the ground. He left his wand vibrating in the stone and walked out of the courtyard. Chapter 50: SEYRI Chapter 50: SEYRI
My next power card appeared before me after my Zii-Kata routine. I plucked it out of the air. I waited, my hand tingling. A cloaked figure materialized across the arena, its form billowing and shifting like smoke. Without warning, inky tendrils shot out from its cloak, whipping towards me in a frenzy. I slashed with my sword, severing the dark appendages as they tried to trap me. The severed pieces dissolved into mist. I could''ve blinked out and escaped, but something roiling within kept me rooted in place¡ªblinking was conceding. Again and again, I swiped at the wraith, my blade whistling through empty air. There was nothing solid beneath the cloak, just an endless void. It was like fighting a phantom made of shadows. More tendrils lashed out faster than I could react. They wrapped my arms, legs, and torso, squeezing tight. I struggled, but the cloak pulled me closer, drawing me towards its faceless visage. Liquid metal leaked from its eye sockets to form a Jingozi mask¡ªmy Jingozi¡ªthe same one that visited me earlier. Now, face-to-face with the alien, my reflection in its metallic mask stared back at me. My eyes widened, igniting into flames. The Jingozi''s grip loosened abruptly. It recoiled as if burned by my gaze. The tendrils retreated, slithering back into its cloak. Our gazes locked¡ªthe predator had become the prey. The Jingozi backed away. It floated back into the void, never taking its masked face from me. And at the last possible moment, I swore it nodded approvingly. Confusion washed over me as I watched it disappear. What just happened? Why had it suddenly become afraid? It then dawned on me. After killing one of their own, I was now a threat, and they were catching on. But why let me continue? Or was this one particular Jingozi up to something else? I blinked, willing myself out of the Jingozi arena, still feeling more perplexed than victorious. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A POWER CARD Warp III * * * While preparing the fire for a lunch of roasted fish, Jon returned. We both opened our mouths to speak, only to be interrupted. A rock tumbled from the wall across the garden. My eyes darted to the source, spotting a small face peering through a crack in the weathered stone. "Jon," I whispered, careful not to move my lips too much. "Do you see that in the wall?" He gave an almost imperceptible nod. "Keep your eyes there," I instructed. I blinked to the wall, my hand shooting through the gap to grab the child by the arm. After a struggle, sharp pain jolted through my fingers as teeth sank into my wrist. I yelped, releasing my grip, and the child bolted. I blinked again, materializing in the path of the fleeing child. We slammed into each other, tumbling to the ground with a soft thud. The child was an Amazon girl. I jumped to my feet and looked down at her. She was young, no more than eight or nine, with an Amazon breastplate strapped over her simple tunic. Seashells were woven intricately into the strands of her black hair. Her wide blue eyes, filled with defiance, stirred something within me. Kyra. I hesitated as she held her ground, then stepped aside, allowing the girl to scramble and dash away. Blinking back to the courtyard, I found Jon waiting expectantly. "An Amazon child," I explained, rubbing my bitten hand. "Like Kyra." "Kyra?" he asked. "Daughter of Queen Zenobia?" "Yeah." "Not anymore, I''m afraid." "What do you mean?" "She was stripped of her title for attempting to defect to the Emperor faction and sent to the Reforging Grounds." "What''s that?" "Not a pleasant destination, from what I hear. It''s where rebellious Amazons are sent for discipline and hardship to restore their warrior spirit." Shit, what did I do? "Where is this place?" I asked. "The Reforging Grounds?" "I''m unaware of such details." "Look, Jon," I shuffled my feet. "I want to¡ª"Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. "Save your apology," he said flatly. "Your failure is your choice, and so are the consequences." "What''s that supposed to mean?" "You still don''t understand, do you? I can''t even fathom how lost you are," he crouched to pull his wand from the ground. "You''ve been granted this fantastic gift¡­ power unseen¡­ in all my years. There''s only been one other that is capable of what you are." "Who?" "Overlord Edric," he stared into the distance. "How do you think he remains undefeated? How did he kill the Shogun? Why do the Jingozi seemingly bend the knee to his whims? There were always rumors. But I never believed until I saw with my own eyes. They say he''s not from this world, and now you have a responsibility." "I never thought about that." "That''s right, Ember. Because you''ve only been thinking about yourself." "You¡­ you know what?" I stammered. "Yes?" his pointed ears twitched, waiting for me to speak. "Never mind." It was my turn to walk away. * * * I stormed through the dense forest, kicking at fallen branches. Kitty darted between trees, her silver scales glinting as she snatched insects mid-flight with her long tongue. "Can you believe him?" I muttered. "Like I''m supposed to save everyone from Edric?" Kitty zipped past my head, pursuing a particularly fat beetle. "And Alpathir..." I kicked another branch. "Always with the riddles and cryptic messages. ''Power comes from living within words.'' What does that even mean?" My shoulders slumped as Jon''s words echoed in my mind¡ªthe gift, the responsibility, the fact that only Edric and I shared this power. Damn it. He was right. I''d been focused on surviving, on getting home. But what about everyone else? There were so many innocents caught in the crossfire of a faction war. My actions affected everyone around me. Kyra... "What should I do, Kitty?" She landed on my shoulder, purring as she nuzzled against my neck. Her warmth spread through me, calming my racing thoughts. "Thanks for being here," I scratched under her chin. "At least you don''t judge me." The image of that Amazon child flashed in my mind, followed by Kyra. Somewhere out there, she was suffering in the Reforging Grounds because I''d encouraged her defiance and supported her dreams of freedom. And then I took it all away. "I have to fix this somehow," I told Kitty, who tilted her head at my words. "That''s my first responsibility." * * * I stared into the crackling flames, the silence between Jon and me as thick as the smoke rising from our meager fire. The last of my fish sizzled on makeshift spits, filling the air with aromas that did nothing to ease the knot in my stomach. Jon sat across from me, his expression unreadable in the flickering light. I wanted to say something¡ªanything¡ªto break this quiet standoff, but I choked on the right words. I knew I should apologize. Why am I being so damn stubborn? The fire popped, sending sparks into the night sky. I picked at my food, appetite gone. "Don''t look," he said, peering over my shoulder, "but our little Amazon is back." Blinking into the arena, I found the girl. "Don''t run away," I told her mind. "What''s your name?" "Who is this?" Her voice said. "I''m the one you''re spying on. I''m not going to hurt you. What''s your name?" "My name is Seyri." "Seyri, that''s a pretty name. I''m Ember. Where''s your mother?" "I don''t know. I ran away." "You must be scared." "No." "Hungry?" "Yes." I blinked back to the courtyard and looked over my shoulder. "It''s okay, Seyri," I called. "Come in and have something to eat with us." The Amazon girl timidly stuck her head through the stone wall, licking her lips. I held out my familiar ring, letting Kitty free with a twinge of guilt because I''d forgotten about her. Thankfully, time stands still while she''s stored away. I should probably let Usain out soon as well. "Hey, Kitty," I said. "Meet our friend Seyri. Ask her to come eat with us." Kitty squeaked and floated over to the Amazon girl. Seyri''s eyes grew wide with wonder as she reached out, letting Kitty lick her tiny hand. I held out a piece of fish, and the girl inched forward cautiously, her eyes darting back and forth. Taking it out of my hand, she stuffed the fish into her mouth like a chipmunk. "Looks like you''ve made a friend," Jon laughed, startling the girl. She hissed at him and dashed out of the courtyard. Jon watched her run away with a sheepish grin. "Something I said?" "It''s probably that smug face of yours," I mumbled. Jon broke into a full belly laugh. "What''s so funny?" "Alas," Jon sighed. "Let me be the gentleman and first to apologize. I let my emotions best me, Ember. But I want you to win because despite how it appears, I care about you¡ªdeeply." I felt my face flush. "This could be the first time that girl''s seen anybody outside the Amazon faction," I switched subjects. "Kyra was sheltered the same way." "And the story between you two?" "Let''s just say it''s complicated for another time. I feel responsible for what happened." Kitty squealed with delight as she dove into the garden. The place was infested with exotic bugs, and she''d eat gourmet style for days. Jon wrinkled his nose as she snatched and gobbled a jumping wormy thing mid-air. "You were telling me your plan?" Jon said. "I was?" "Well, I know you want to tell me, so out with it," he smiled, smooth as ever. "We contact the Amazon faction. Then we find out where Kyra is and get her out." "And?" "That''s it. That''s the plan." "The child orphans at my keep could plan better." "Well, Jon, what would you do?" "Focus on your tier, learn to use those power cards, or whatever they are, and win the tournament." "What happened to my responsibility?" I wagged a finger and mimicked his voice in playful mockery. He chuckled for a moment. "I''ve been thinking and have decided to rescind my earlier exhortation," he sighed heavily. "That was the Emperor faction in my speaking. You have no obligations to this futile war. This is not your world. As much as I want you to stay and fight, why get involved when a passage home is within your grasp?" "When I first arrived, all I cared about was staying alive and getting home," I flicked a piece of wood into the fire. "Now that I have these abilities, I do feel¡­ responsible. I don''t know if I could live with myself if I abandoned my purpose here. You made me see that. But I do want to go home." "Ever noble, I see," he smiled. "It looks like we''re both double-minded as ever." Jon pulled a flask from his coat and offered it to me. I shook my head. He uncapped it and took a long swig. "Ember, I must warn you," he wiped his chin on his sleeve. "If you''re still unprepared when Lance''s forces arrive, none of us are going home ever again." I took the flask from his hand and took a sip. It tasted like turpentine laced with cinnamon. "Oh, God, Jon," I choked. "That is so not good." "I knew you''d enjoy it," he smiled. "It''s a little homebrewed concoction I''ve been working on." * * * I experimented with a new scouting technique in the arena. With my amplified senses, I could zoom into details, but what if I could zoom out? It worked to a certain degree. Using a mental gesture, like pinching a tablet screen, allowed me to zoom in. The opposite also worked, giving me an aerial view of the island. However, panning the image became considerably slower. It had a parallax effect where my steps were to scale. But it would be much more efficient when scanning large areas. The island was smaller than anticipated and appeared barren of other residents or settlements. Katorro lived in complete seclusion. But this wasn''t the only island either. Other land masses rested on the horizon, reminding me of the Hawaiian islands. Then I saw the ships¡ªEmperor faction ships. There were three of them, the same kind I remembered from Gilderport. Have they found me already? Following the largest of the three, I spotted small boats resting on the beach. Zooming in, there was a camp surrounded by a row of¡­ cages? I couldn''t zoom in through the top of the cages to see what was inside. But what I did see made me gasp¡ªtwo tiny arms hanging out the side. They weren''t here for me at all. Chapter 51: RESCUE Chapter 51: RESCUE
"Jon, how far would Emperor pirates travel to¡­ you know¡­ steal children?" "That''s the point," Jon replied. "They snatch children from the furthest reaches to stay discreet. ''Never hunt in your own backyard,'' as my family used to say. Their vile plan is executed without drawing suspicion toward Overlord Edric. Even the rest of our faction likely remains unaware of his schemes." Jon settled himself at our makeshift table, a sorry excuse for furniture¡ªnothing more than a wooden slab precariously balanced on two half-broken pots. The setup threatened to collapse at any moment. My stomach grumbled as I tore into one of our dwindling ration packs. The fish from my inventory had run out, so we''d need to find a sustainable food source soon. But we had far more urgent matters. "Like a remote island in the middle of nowhere," I said. "The ideal hunting grounds where the Amazons would assume their daughters disappeared for... other reasons." "Indeed." "What about the Samurai Jingozi training villages?" "I abhor the thought, but yes, they would be ideal, as you say." A chill ran down my spine as I thought about Yukiko, Hiro, and the rest of the young Samurai. "But what I don''t understand is, why? I thought the Amazon and Emperor factions were allies because of... you know... the whole baby arrangement." "Of all the factions that appear aligned, I dare say we despise each other the most. Our alliance is transactional alone, not for mutual benefit. Necromagic is generational. The more generational hatred between enemies, the more potent the sacrifice of innocent blood." "That is seriously messed up." I swallowed my last bite of ration and stood up. "Let''s go." Calling for Kitty, she popped up from the brush and squeaked. "And where are we going, praytell?" "To kill three birds with one stone, but first, we rescue the kids." NEW MISSION: AMAZONIAN CHILDREN RESCUE Free the Amazon faction children from the Emperor faction mercenaries. "I do hope you know what you''re doing," Jon said as he donned his jacket. * * * My first objective was to free the Amazon children and send a clear message to Overlord Edric. That would create my second opportunity¡ªfind Kyra and do something about that mess. And finally, I''d finish the tournament and gain enough power to do something about the Emperor faction once and for all. Overly optimistic? Probably. For me, it represented closure before I attempted to win the Jingozi tournament and get home. It was a long shot, but the only shot I had. Usain carried me through the thick undergrowth, as I blinked in and out of the Jingozi arena to navigate the safest path. Jon also rode a mount of his own¡ªa horned antelope-like creature with silver fur. Nearing the pirate camp, we halted and returned our mounts to our rings. I did the same with Kitty, knowing her aggro for dark elves might compromise any attempt for stealth. The voices of pirates told us we were close. ¡°Why do we always get stuck with the day shift? I swear, if I get bit by another one of these jungle leeches, I¡¯m throwing the whole crate into the sea.¡± ¡°Careful what you wish for, mate. Captain might just throw you in the crate and let the worms finish the job.¡± From our vantage point, the camp was a mess of crates and supplies scattered haphazardly around a cluster of tents. The acrid smell of smoke and unwashed bodies wafted up to our position, making my nose wrinkle in disgust. On the perimeter, I counted ten cages on the beach. My heart clenched as I saw nine of them holding children, their small arms reaching through the bars, grasping at empty air. I could hear their occasional muffled cries in the breeze. The tenth cage stood empty¡ªSeyri''s, no doubt. Its open door swung lazily in the wind. ¡°Oi! Who packed this? Feels like rocks. We smuggling rocks now?¡± ¡°Nah, just the souls of your lost dreams.¡± "What in the bloody hell is that supposed to mean? This is heavy!" ¡°You two shut it! We ain¡¯t gettin¡¯ paid to moan. We get this lot shipped out, we¡¯re in the clear. ¡®Less you want to end up in one of them cages.¡±This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it I blinked into the Jingozi arena to scout the camp thoroughly. A dozen dark elf pirates bustled about, loading supplies and preparing to depart. One of them kicked a cage, causing the Amazon girl to cower. ¡°Can¡¯t say the little brats are gonna miss the view, eh? All that water and nowhere to swim.¡± "Well, if I was staring at your ugly mug all day, I''d brave the seas." "Oh, shut it! I know you been fancying me since we landed." I blinked back to Jon. "I count twelve pirates," I whispered. "I''ll take out the pirates," Jon offered. "You free the kids." "I''ve got a better idea," I shook my head. "Stay here and keep watch. I need you as an anchor point to blink back to." Before Jon could protest, I activated my Ninja Armor''s invisibility. A new tingle of Zii coursed through me as I faded from view. I blinked to the edge of the camp and loaded my Jingozi cards, my eyes locked on the nearest pirate. With silent steps, I approached from behind and struck him in the base of the skull with a card to knock him unconscious. The dark elf crumpled without a sound, his body hitting the sand with a soft thud. One by one, I moved through the camp like a ghost. Blink, strike, blink again. The pirates fell like dominoes, never knowing what hit them. My invisibility flickered with each hit, a brief shimmer in the air, but I remained undetected. Despite my headache from blinking over a dozen times, I couldn''t help but feel a twinge of satisfaction. I emerged from invisibility and stood at the edge of the camp, surveying the unconscious pirates scattered around me. Then, a piercing scream shattered the silence. Two more pirates appeared, dragging Seyri in a net, thrashing and hissing like a cornered wildcat. The pirates'' eyes widened as they entered the scene, their gazes locking onto me. One grabbed Seyri by her hair, lifting her off the ground. The net tangled around her tiny body as she continued to struggle. The other pirate pressed a dagger against her throat. "One move, and the runt tastes my blade," he snarled. I raised my hands slowly, showing them empty palms. "Sick''em, girl," I whispered. Activating my familiar ring, Kitty materialized in a blur of silver, streaking through the air like a missile. She slammed into the pirate holding the dagger, her claws and tail lashing out in a frenzy. Blood sprayed as Kitty tore into him, and he collapsed with a gurgling cry. Before the second pirate could react, a spiked wand whistled through the air, striking him directly in the temple. He toppled backward, dead before he hit the ground. Jon stepped out from the tree line and approached Seyri cautiously, his hands outstretched in a calming gesture. "It''s okay, you''re safe now," he said softly. Jon tried to free her from the net, but she continued thrashing wildly, her eyes wide with fear and distrust. "Forget it," Jon muttered. He turned away from Seyri, retrieved his wand, and moved towards the other cages. "I''ll start freeing the rest." As Jon worked on releasing the other children, I dealt with the unconscious pirates. Grabbing the first dark elf by his ankles, I dragged him across the sand towards an empty cage. One by one, I hauled the pirates into the cages they had used to imprison innocent children. Using rope from my inventory, I bound their hands and feet. For good measure, I looped a rope around their mouths, gagging and securing them to the cage bars. Jon freed the last child as I continued securing pirates. He gathered the frightened Amazon children and led them to where Seyri lay tangled in the net. "Your choice," Jon said to her, his tone firm but not unkind. "Join your friends or stay in the net." Seyri''s struggles subsided after seeing the faces of her fellow Amazons. With a reluctant nod, she relented, allowing Jon to free her. Kitty scurried to Seyri on her hind legs and nuzzled the girl for comfort. The other Amazons giggled, surprisingly unphased by the recent ordeal. "What now?" Jon asked, turning to me. I glanced towards the horizon, seeing two more pirate ships anchored offshore just beyond the largest one. "Take the kids back to Katorro''s home," I replied. "Kitty, you go with them. I''ll wait until dark to deal with those ships." Jon paused and then nodded. He walked over to a nearby crate and pried it open, revealing stacks of rations and waterskins. "Grab as much as you can carry," he instructed the children. "We''ve got a bit of a walk ahead of us." Jon and Kitty led the Amazon children into the jungle. I settled into a Zii-Kata routine until nightfall. MISSION COMPLETE: AMAZONIAN CHILDREN RESCUE Free the Amazon faction children from the Emperor faction mercenaries. NEW MISSION: PIRATE SABOTAGE Sabotage the pirate child smuggling operation. NEW MISSION: RETURN THE CHILDREN Return the Amazon children safely to their faction. * * * As night settled over the horizon, I surveyed the pirate camp one last time. The unconscious pirates remained securely bound in cages, and the only sound was the rhythmic lapping of the waves against the shore. It was time to deal with the ships. Scouring the camp for anything flammable, I gathered whatever I could find¡ªoil lanterns, barrels, coils of rope. I loaded two rowboats with the haphazard mix of supplies, confident they''d catch fire easily. As I worked, my mind wandered to the chunk of octranite crystal from the mines. Something tugged at my instincts, a certainty forming without explanation. Carefully, I chipped off a few shards with my ninjato and scattered them into each boat. The crystal was quiet now, no longer whispering as it had deep within the caves. With the boats loaded and tied securely, I stepped onto the water. The familiar surge of my water walker ability rippled through me, allowing the surface to solidify beneath my feet like solid ground. Gripping the ropes tightly, I began to pull, marveling at how effortlessly the boats glided behind me. The night was peaceful, bathed in moonlight, as I sprinted toward the anchored ships. Each step felt light and silent. Reaching the first ship, I scanned the deck for signs of life. Before setting the charges, I had to ensure no other children were trapped aboard. Activating my invisibility, I climbed the hull, careful not to make a sound. Moving swiftly through the lower decks, I checked every corner, every dark nook. No cages. No children. Just supplies and a sleeping crew. I repeated this on each vessel, slipping into the shadows, my senses on high alert. After each sweep, I confirmed that the decks were clear and returned to my task. With the rowboats tied securely to the smaller ships, I pried off a plank from each hull. I placed octranite shards into the gaps, nestling them into the wood. Unsheathing my sword, I loaded a max-charged Jingozi card and infused the blade. With a swift motion, I brought the sword down on the thick anchor chains. The metal gave way, like slicing through nothing more than cloth. Satisfied, I turned and sprinted back toward the shore. The distance between me and the ships grew, and I loaded my hand when I was far enough. I fired two flaming cards. One struck each rowboat, the flames igniting instantly. As I ran, the silence of the night was shattered by the distant, sharp pops of the crystal shards detonating behind me. MISSION COMPLETE: PIRATE SABOTAGE Sabotage the pirate child smuggling operation. Chapter 52: MESSAGE Chapter 52: MESSAGE
If I was going to send a message to Overlord Edric, it needed to count. The ships burned through the night, casting an orange glow across the beach. Hidden in the shadows, I waited for the inevitable. As dawn broke, eight rowboats emerged from the two smaller, burning vessels, carrying about twenty dark elf pirates. A burly captain with a scar carved across his face stomped onto the shore, his eyes blazing with fury. ¡°What in the seven hells happened here?¡± he roared, spittle flying from his mouth. The crew shuffled nervously, exchanging panicked glances. The captain grabbed the nearest purple elf, cocking his arm for a backhanded slap. ¡°Please, Captain Bloodsail, we was on the ship with you!¡± the pirate stammered. Bloodsail. How original. I blinked into the Jingozi arena, focusing on the captain¡¯s mind. ¡°Bloodsail,¡± I whispered. ¡°Your time has come.¡± ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡± he growled, his voice low and wary. ¡°My name is Ember,¡± I continued, my voice echoing in his head. ¡°Tell Overlord Edric to stop his schemes and leave the children, or I¡¯ll come for him next.¡± ¡°Nice try, ghost,¡± Bloodsail barked, laughing harshly even within his mind. ¡°You don¡¯t scare me.¡± I blinked back to the beach, activating my invisibility. A flick of my wrist sent a razor-sharp Jingozi card whistling, severing the captain¡¯s hand¡ªthe one clutching the pirate¡ªat the wrist. Bloodsail¡¯s guttural scream echoed across the shore as he clutched the bloody stump, his face twisted in agony and disbelief. Crimson droplets spattered the sand. The other pirates froze, their eyes wide and jaws slack as they stared at their mutilated leader. I invaded their minds one by one, my sinister whispers slithering through their thoughts. Promises of doom and whispered threats planted seeds of terror. Blinking rapidly around the beach, I unleashed a flurry of Jingozi cards. The edges gleamed before slicing into their targets, drawing blood and eliciting cries of pain. Panic spread like wildfire among the pirates, their eyes darting as they tried to locate the invisible attacker. ¡°Ghosts!¡± one screamed. ¡°There be ghosts!¡± I hurled a fiery card at their last remaining ship. The card embedded itself in the hull, flames hungrily climbing the wooden planks. More incendiary missiles followed, turning the vessel into a blazing inferno. Bloodsail growled, realizing the gravity of their predicament. ¡°To the ship, you dogs!¡± he bellowed. ¡°Before we lose our only way out!¡± The pirates scrambled to drag their comrades toward the rowboats, their movements frantic and disorganized. I continued my psychological assault, filling their minds with ghostly wails and phantom threats. Some fell to their knees, sobbing, confessing every heinous act they¡¯d ever committed. * * * As I approached Katorro¡¯s estate, high-pitched giggles and squeals caught me off guard. Rounding the corner, I stumbled upon a scene I hadn¡¯t expected. A swarm of Amazon children surrounded Jon, all trying to tackle him to the ground. He was laughing¡ªgenuinely laughing¡ªas he dodged their tiny hands and feet. Kitty darted between them, playfully nipping at their heels. For a moment, I stood there, watching. These were the same children we¡¯d rescued, now playing without a care in the world. It was¡­ beautiful. Jon noticed me and froze, his face flushing as though I¡¯d caught him doing something embarrassing. ¡°So,¡± I said, raising an eyebrow. ¡°Having fun?¡± ¡°And the pirates?¡± he asked, clearing his throat and straightening his jacket. I recounted the night¡¯s events, emphasizing the terror I¡¯d inflicted, the destruction of the ships, and the message I¡¯d sent to Edric through Bloodsail. He motioned to Seyri, who peeked out from behind him. ¡°Tell Auntie Ember what you told me,¡± he said. Seyri stepped forward, her eyes bright.This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. ¡°Our mothers come every fortnight to check on us.¡± ¡°Every two weeks?¡± I muttered. ¡°Model parenting.¡± ¡°By my calculations," he said, pinching Seryi''s cheek, "they¡¯ll return in five days.¡± I nodded, processing the information. "So, we''ve got time to kill." "Looks like it," Jon replied, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Might as well make the best of it." As I watched Jon return to playing with the children, I felt something¡­ different from him. Maybe there was more to Jon Deerfoot than I''d given him credit for. * * * By the time Jon and I finished setting up camp for our new tenants, the girls were already scattered across the island, foraging for food like they''d lived here all their lives. They gathered everything from fruit to edible roots and mushrooms. I realized they were miles ahead of us in the survival department. One minute, spearing fish with sticks they¡¯d sharpened with sharp stones, and the next, one killed a snake with a quick twist of her wrist. They moved effortlessly, gathering enough for everyone without a word of complaint. Jon looked at me, impressed. "Think they even need us?" "I''m not sure," I laughed, shaking my head. "They¡¯re little Amazon warriors, that''s for sure.¡± It was hard not to compare it to Lord of the Flies, a book I¡¯d read back in high school, only with all girls and none of the dysfunction. How they shared tasks and cared for each other was remarkable. By the evening, after they¡¯d built their fire and cooked the fish, we decided to show them a few new tricks. Jon started with basic self-defense moves¡ªthrowing a punch and shifting their weight. I taught them how to keep their balance and how to block attacks. They soaked it all in as enthusiastic pupils eager to learn. That night, as we settled around the fire, Kitty curled up between them, and the girls took turns petting her. * * * The sun barely had time to rise before the girls were off gathering fruit, hunting, and fishing. They moved like a part of the island, as natural as the breeze. Jon and I mostly watched, letting them do their thing, but we kept a close eye. One of the girls climbed a tree to get a better vantage point, but as she leaped down, she landed awkwardly, twisting her ankle. I moved to help, but the other girls were on it. They worked quickly, tearing strips from their tunics to wrap her ankle. Not a single tear, not a single word of complaint. They bound her foot, supported her weight, and moved on like it was no big deal. ¡°Did you see that?¡± I turned to Jon, incredulous. He shrugged, unsurprised. ¡°They¡¯re most resilient," he smiled. "Dare I say, Emperor children should be ashamed of themselves. Our faction coddles them far too much.¡± I recalled Kyra being so different from her brother and sister¡ªAric''s children. Jon was absolutely right. By the afternoon, Jon introduced something new. He showed them how to create simple traps¡ªsnares for catching small game. I taught them how to be stealthy in combat and use their small size to their advantage. They picked it up so fast that it was like they¡¯d been training their whole lives. Kitty, of course, was the real star of the day. When the girls weren¡¯t busy hunting or learning, they played, chasing her through the jungle and tumbling in the sand. * * * We were settling into a rhythm. I introduced meditation as part of their routine. In the morning, we sat together in a circle, teaching them to focus their breathing and to quiet their minds. The girls were a little restless at first, but they were starting to get it by the end. In between meditations and combat training, the girls were back to their usual duties¡ªtracking prey and fishing while communicating through whistles and clicks. I joined them this time to understand how they worked seamlessly together. I was learning from them just as much as they were learning from us. In the evening, we worked on combat drills again. This time, Jon and I showed them how to handle multiple attackers at once and how to use the environment¡ªtrees, rocks, sand¡ªto gain an advantage. They were naturals, and by the end of the session, they were moving like a unit, perfectly in sync. As the sun set, the girls once again gathered around Kitty. She was as much a part of their tribe as any of them. I watched them from a distance, smiling at how much they¡¯d bonded. * * * I sat at the table at the courtyard''s edge, rolling the large chunk of octranite crystal in my hand, the size of a football. The cold surface hummed faintly beneath my fingers like it had a life of its own. The Amazon girls played in the distance while Jon snoozed against a stone across from me. But I focused on the octranite, its presence pulling at something deep inside me. I knew there was more to it¡ªmore than just the explosions. I held it up to the fading sunlight, the smooth surface catching the light, refracting tiny rainbows. I broke off a small piece. Closing my eyes, focusing on the warmth of Zii flooding into my fingertips, I produced a Zii coin and combined it with the crystal. It pulsed, responding to me, reminding me of the whispers back in the caves. The nexus powered the crystals there, so my Zii should have the same effect. I flaked off another piece. Once infused with my Zii, it became more malleable in my fingertips, almost like hard plasticine. "Hey Jon," I woke him. "Here." "Why, Ember, you shouldn''t have," he said, catching the crystal lump and examining it. "Use your Zii," I instructed, following a hunch. He snapped his fingers to create a purple Zii coin and pressed it to melt into the crystal. "Now hold it and say something I can''t hear," I said. He cupped his hands over the crystal piece and covered his mouth. His voice came through the larger piece in my hand, faint but unmistakable, as if he whispered directly into my ear. He said, "I regret betraying you to the Samurai in Raishoto. Will you forgive me?" ¡°It works,¡± I grinned. "Do you then?" "Do I what?" "Forgive me?" I pretended to get distracted by the crystal again. After a few moments of staring, he stood up and walked away. I hid my face in my palms. Ember Lynn, you are such an idiot. * * * I watched the isle become familiar territory as time flowed seamlessly from one moment to the next. Seeing how the girls flourished swelled my heart, their bodies and minds thriving with every sunrise. I set up a challenge for them¡ªan obstacle course like the one at the Ninja guild in Raishoto. They had to navigate through the trees, avoid traps, and finish without being caught by Jon or me. They loved it, sprinting through the trees like shadows, their movements silent and deadly. By the end, they laughed in triumph. That night, as the fire crackled and Kitty stretched lazily between us, I felt something I hadn¡¯t in a long time¡ªa sense of peace. Unfortunately, I knew it wouldn''t last much longer, and it would be all my fault. Chapter 53: HUNTRESS Chapter 53: HUNTRESS
"Surely, you jest," Jon stammered. "You wouldn''t." "It''s the only way," I insisted. "We negotiate Kyra''s release in exchange for the girls." It was dawn, and the Amazon daughters were still asleep. Jon paced the edge of the courtyard, gazing out over the cliffs. I peered over the ledge, watching the ocean crash against the rocks below in a constant, thunderous rhythm. Jon''s face darkened. "That''s pure lunacy, Ember. These are innocent children you want to bargain with. They''re not old enough to know that our factions are at war." "You told me to focus on reaching the next tier. This mission could do that." Jon''s eyes widened in disbelief. "I meant train," he hissed. "Not exploit the innocent!" "It''s not exploitation. It''s a strategy. We''re not actually going to hurt them." "And what happens when the Amazons see through the ruse? This isn''t you, Ember." Our voices rose as we argued, neither willing to back down. A whistle cut through the air. AUTO DODGE: SUCCESSFUL Card Discarded [4/4] 100% AUTO DODGE: FAIL Card Discarded [4/7] 57% AUTO DODGE: FAIL Card Discarded [2/4] 50% Three arrows whistled toward me as my auto-dodge notifications lit up my interface. One missed by inches, but another struck my shoulder while a third tore through my side. The impact sent me stumbling backward. The ground disappeared beneath my feet. I fell through empty air for a heart-stopping moment, too stunned to blink into the Jingozi arena. IMMUNITY TO FALL DAMAGE [PASSIVE] Ninja Armor [Elite] My Ninja armor absorbed the fall, and my water-walker ability prevented me from being dashed against the jagged stones below the water''s surface. Still, pain coursed through my body¡ªthe arrow in my shoulder shattering upon impact. My vision blurred as I fought to stay conscious. Jon lay on the rocks beside me, his body broken and twisted. * * * Frantically trying to revive Jon, my heart pounded as I pressed Zii coins into his body and performed chest compressions with shaking hands. Relentless waves crashed around us, threatening to sweep his broken form away. An arrow, its shaft slick with blood, protruded from his chest, mere inches from his heart. His hair was drenched crimson from a gash above his ear. "Come on, Jon!" I shouted over the deafening roar of the surf. "You better not... I swear..." I channeled more Zii coins into him, my breath ragged as I desperately focused on healing his injuries. To my horror, nothing happened. Jon remained still and pale beneath my trembling fingers. I began to panic. My powers weren''t enough. AUTO DODGE: SUCCESSFUL Card Discarded [4/5] 80% AUTO DODGE: SUCCESSFUL Card Discarded [6/6] 100% AUTO DODGE: SUCCESSFUL Card Discarded [2/6] 33% TIducked and twisted instinctively, barely avoiding the three arrows zinging past my head. Eyes hurting from the sea spray, I blinked into the Jingozi arena. After catching my breath, I scanned the reflection on the obsidian floor toward the ocean. A gigantic snapping turtle adorned with runes¡ªa terragrym¡ªapproached our position. Three Amazon warriors stood proudly atop the terragrym¡¯s shell, armor, and spears gleaming with blue accents and sapphire inlays. Their fierce presence matched the beast beneath them, but none more so than the archer with the drawn longbow at the center. The darkest of the three, the archer''s skin and bald head were smooth and decorated with intricate black tribal tattoos that curled and twisted across her body like living shadows. Her glowing blue eyes, sharp and piercing, were focused with the precision of a hunter¡ªalluring yet terrifying. I blinked back to the edge of their line of sight, away from Jon, activating my invisibility and water-walker ability. Standing on the water''s surface, I watched the terragrym crawl onto the rocks, allowing the Amazons to hop off and reach Jon''s motionless form.Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings. Name: Huntress Zeryn [Divine Dealer] Tier: IV [Cobalt] Rank 2 Faction: Amazon [Archer] "Surrender yourself, or taste my wrath!" Huntress Zeryn bellowed, her voice fierce as a storm. I stood silent, torn between revealing myself and keeping Jon safe. Without hesitation, Zeryn nocked another arrow and released it with deadly precision, striking Jon¡¯s leg. My resolve crumbled, and in a heartbeat, I appeared in front of his fallen body, hands raised in surrender. "Enough!" I cried. "I surrender... please, help him." Zeryn¡¯s gaze was as sharp as a blade. "Who speaks before me?" she demanded. "Where are the younglings?" "My name is Ember. The children are safe, resting at our camp just above us. We were waiting for your return." She turned to her companions, giving a curt nod. "Secure this one, and let none take their eyes off her," she ordered. "Her words will prove themselves, one way or another." The other two Amazons moved closer. Spears pointed at my chest. Their stares dared me to try anything. Zeryn loaded a Jingozi card into her hand, its edges glowing blue. She fitted it into her bow, drawing it to materialize an arrow of light attached to a magical rope. She aimed upward and released. The arrow soared toward the cliff face, trailing the ethereal rope behind it. Once the arrow embedded itself in the rock above, Zeryn gripped the rope tightly. She gave it a sharp tug, testing its strength. Satisfied, she leaned back almost to the ground, her muscles tensing. She sprang forward, catapulting upward like a reverse bungee jump, disappearing over the cliff''s edge. My attention snapped back to Jon. His skin grew paler by the second, and his chest''s faint rise and fall became more labored. "Please," I begged, "let me help him." I reached out to Jon. A searing pain exploded in my arm. One of the Amazons had driven her spear into my flesh, the tip piercing clean through. I cried out in agony, clutching the spear shaft as the blade sank deeper. Blood seeped between my fingers, hot and sticky. The Amazon yanked her spear free, ripping through my palm and eliciting another anguished gasp from me. Gritting my teeth against the pain, I blinked into the Jingozi arena. The familiar obsidian floor materialized beneath my feet, and I collapsed, my arm throbbing mercilessly with phantom pain. Please let this work. "Jon?" I called out. "Yes, Ember?" he replied. "Do you know where you are?" "Why, I''m right here, standing in front of you. We''re... hmm..." "Jon, I''m using my gift to speak to you¡ªin your mind, remember?" "Ah yes, the arena." "You''re hurt bad, Jon." "That''s funny. I don''t feel like it. But I trust you. If I am, that''s most troubling. What happened?" "Amazons. An archer sniped us while we argued. You fell off the cliff." "How bad is it?" "You''re... dying, Jon," I quivered. "Most troubling indeed," his voice softened. "I don''t know what to do." "Well, if I''m going to die, then it''s my time. We elves live too long anyway." "That''s not funny." "Sorry, I know. You must do whatever you can to save yourself." "No way." "What choice do you have?" I slammed my fists onto the Jingozi floor. There was no way I was going to let Jon die like this¡ªno way. "I know you''re there," I called. "I am, Ember," he replied softly. "Please... help him." "I will." "How?" My voice cracked with surprise. "I promise I will." "Hey," I said, turning my attention back to Jon. "You''re going to be okay, please. Just hang on." "I will, Ember." Rising to my feet, my mind raced as I studied the two Amazons guarding my physical form. Their spears glinted menacingly, poised to strike at the slightest provocation. I could probably take them out quickly with my cards. But then what? Jon''s broken body lay between us, and moving him in his condition could be fatal. And Zeryn was one tier higher than me¡ªI wouldn''t stand a chance in my condition. But I had to do something. Jon needed healing and fast. I loaded a [Warp] power card from my hand into the reserve slot. That was a start. But then, what next? Frustrated, I paced the obsidian floor, my footsteps echoing in the vast silence. I needed a plan that didn''t involve violence. These Amazons were here for the children, after all. Maybe if I could explain... I scanned the cliff top. There¡ªZeryn''s distinctive silhouette stood against the sky. She''d already found the children, their tiny heads peeking over the ledge, no doubt confused and scared. Zeryn had to listen to reason. She had to understand we weren''t the enemy here. I couldn''t think of another plan. "Show her," the Voice interrupted my thoughts. "What do you mean?" "Katorro''s ability is also yours¡ªfire sight." I checked my cards. HAND: [2/0] [0/6] [Warp I] [Force Field I] 1/4] [4/0] Reserve: [Warp II] Discarding some cards with zero scores, I cycled my deck for a better hand. HAND: [0/6] [Warp I] [Force Field I] 1/4] [Poison Strike] [Evolve] Reserve: [Warp II] All right. Here goes nothing. I blinked back, the cold sea spray hitting my face as I returned to my physical self before the Amazon guards. Their spears twitched, but they held their positions. My arm was immobile, so I raised the other slowly, holding up an open palm to show that I meant no harm. * * * I anxiously waited as Zeryn descended the cliff using another magical rope that slowed her fall. She landed softly on the rocks, her piercing blue eyes fixed on me as water splashed around us. Drenched and shivering, I cradled Jon''s head to prevent him from being swept away. "The younglings say you rescued them," Zeryn''s voice dripped with skepticism. "That''s the truth," I replied. "The Emperor faction has been kidnapping your children." "And why," she sneered, "would an enemy faction lift a finger to aid us?" "I''m not your enemy." Her gaze hardened, eyes narrowing like a hawk sizing up its prey. I blinked into the Jingozi arena, her cold reflection still fixed on me, radiating disbelief. "I''m not your enemy," I repeated. Her voice echoed back, laced with wariness. "What sorcery is this?" "I''m... in your mind. Please, listen to me. Overlord Edric is our true enemy." A long silence followed. FInally, her words cut through the arena air, chilling me to the core. "Whatever game this is... it ends with your death." My plan was clearly backfiring, and her psyche was much stronger than anticipated. I rechecked my Jingozi cards. Blinking back and opening my mouth to explain, Zeryn''s hand moved in a blur before I could utter a word. She charged a card, nocked an arrow, and drew her bow. Time slowed as the arrow darted toward me, transforming into a blue metal cobra with its fangs bared, ready to strike. [WARP I] ACTIVATED Card [0/6] Discarded Because of my [Warp I] power card in my hand, the snake arrow passed harmlessly through the space I''d been standing in a split second before. Without hesitation, she charged another card, drawing the string tight. A small pebble struck her head from above, causing her to flinch. She looked up, and her eyes widened in horror. Instead of shooting me, she launched her arrow into the rocks at her feet, propelling herself backward, high into the air¡ªfast enough to avoid the orange boulder that was about to crush her. Cragmarr plummeted into the water, sending a massive spray like a bomb hitting the surface. The warrior women staggered but managed to steady themselves, brandishing their weapons. A heartbeat later, another impact scattered them¡ªKitty had rolled into a metallic cannonball and crashed down on their position, sending them all tumbling into the depths. A blue flash of light streaked by me, embedding into the cliffside and trailing a glowing cord. On the other end, Zeryn used the tether to slingshot herself toward me, drawing another arrow. I blinked directly in front of the Amazon huntress, catching her by surprise. Shoulder tackling her with all my strength, we both tumbled into the cold ocean water. Plunging beneath the waves, I kicked hard, propelling us deeper into the murky depths. Zeryn struggled against my grip, but my momentum in the water locked her down, forcing her to lock eyes with me. I summoned every ounce of concentration, feeling heat building behind my eyes. My vision erupted into flames. Zeryn''s eyes glowed in shock as the fire reflected in her sapphire irises. The water around us seemed to fade as our gaze remained locked in a hypnotic dance of flames. My fire sight ability showed me everything in Zeryn''s mind, revealing what I needed to know and something more. We sank deeper into the ocean''s embrace, the world above growing distant and muffled. Zeryn''s struggles weakened as the fire sight took hold, her expression shifting from anger and confusion to a strange, tranquil state. Chapter 54: ZENOBIA Chapter 54: ZENOBIA
Gasping for air, my lungs burned as I coughed up seawater. Cragmarr''s distraught face came into focus with a clay brow furrowed with concern. The last thing I remembered was locking eyes with Zeryn. "Ember, are you alright?" he asked, his voice gravelly with relief. I nodded weakly, feeling Kitty''s warm tongue lapping at the arrow and spear wounds. The pain ebbed away as her healing worked its magic. Cragmarr also pressed Zii coins on my gaping injuries for much-needed fash healing. Shaking the saltwater from my eyes, I surveyed the scene around me at the base of the cliff. The two Amazon warriors who had accompanied Zeryn lay nearby, bloody and groaning in pain. Zeryn lay motionless beside me, her chest still. Then there was Jon. "Crag, help Jon! Now!" I shouted. As Cragmarr rushed to Jon''s side, I crawled over to Zeryn. Drawing a Zii coin, I placed it under my hands on her chest and concentrated. Using a [0/1] Jingozi card, I channeled its power to expel the water from her lungs. Zeryn convulsed, water gushing from her mouth as she coughed violently. Her eyes flew open, wild and disoriented. Instinctively, her hand reached for her bow, but it wasn''t there. Her gaze locked onto me, narrowing as she spotted the glowing Jingozi card I held to her throat, its energy pulsing with a low, dangerous hum. "Don''t move," I warned. Zeryn''s scowl deepened, defiance etched into every line of her face, but she held still. "Did you see it?" I asked. "Yes," she grunted. "Then you know I''m not your enemy." A reluctant nod. "And I know Seyri is your daughter," I continued. Her eyes flashed with surprise, a momentary crack in her fierce composure. "How do you know this?" she demanded. "I saw it when we shared visions. I understand why you tried to kill me. You''re just... protecting your daughter... being a mother." "What now, then?" "I want to talk to Kyra." LEVEL UPDATE Name: Ember [Judgment Dealer]* Tier: III [Steel] Rank 9 * * * Cragmarr gently laid Jon''s battered body on the table. We had returned to Katorro''s estate with the Amazons unarmed, their weapons stashed in my inventory. Kitty floated above them as a sentry. His grim, stony face added to my fear as Cragmarr turned to me. "His injuries are beyond my abilities to heal. I''ll do my best to keep him stable. He will require a constant flow of Zii from one of us." "Do what you can, Crag. And I''m glad you''re here. What happened at Radiant Temple?" "The Emperor faction attacked, but Lance was not among their forces. The siege lasted for days, but they did not break our defenses." "What about Kaito and Sora¡ªKatorro?" "Kaito was wounded but lives. Sora tends to him now and will join us shortly. But Katorro..." "Come on, Crag, just tell me." "He grows weaker by the day. I am afraid the fire no longer burns in his eyes. Every time he expends Zii, it is permanent." A blur of movement caught my eye as Seyri dashed across the courtyard, flinging herself into Zeryn''s arms. The Amazon huntress embraced her daughter tightly, her stoic fa?ade cracking momentarily. I approached them. "Zeryn, I need to contact Kyra. Where is she being held?" "That is not within my power to grant," she replied, her tone rigid. "Only Queen Zenobia can¡ª" "Then get me an audience with Queen Zenobia," I cut her off, my patience stretched thin and my wounds throbbing. "And if I refuse? More Jingozi mind tricks?" I blinked in and out of the Jingozi arena, but not for her. "Your daughter told me she can''t wait to go home and ride Stonecradle. That would be your terragrym, wouldn''t it?" Zeryn''s face went pale, her arms tightening protectively around Seyri. I returned to the Jingozi arena and spoke directly to her this time.If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. "Oh, I thought I''d keep this other piece between us. Seyri adores her brother... Kaelin, is it? Quite the secret. I wonder how the rest of your faction would feel knowing you''ve broken the rules. I know how it works and heard Queen Zenobia''s rather... strict about leaving your Emperor children behind." "You do not know who you trifle with," her voice seethed in the arena. "I know who you are. Like I told you, I don''t blame you for being a mother. That whole arrangement is stupid, anyway. But don''t think for one moment I won''t use your secrets against you." I blinked back and locked eyes with Zeryn. Part of me recoiled at my own words, and I could almost hear Jon''s voice: "This isn''t you, Ember." But I held my ground, meeting Zeryn''s furious glare without flinching. "Well?" I said, "What''s it going to be?" * * * Zeryn and her Amazon companions spent time settling in and addressing the children. The girls responded with the exact militant obedience of the Samurai youth in Yukiko''s village. The huntress beckoned me to an ornate fountain nestled in a secluded corner of the estate''s overgrown gardens. The stone basin was cracked and weathered but still functional. She produced a sapphire-like gem from a pouch at her hip and dropped it into the stagnant water, followed by one of her Zii coins. The surface rippled and bubbled, then began to rise. I tensed, but Zeryn remained calm. The water coalesced into a towering, translucent figure¡ªa regal woman with flowing hair and a muscular frame. "My Queen," Zeryn bowed her head. "I bring news from Kazeshima." The watery statue''s lips moved, and a melodious yet condescending voice filled the space. "Report, Huntress." "The children are safe. We were... mistaken about their captors. It appears the Emperor faction was behind their abduction, not this outsider as we believed." Zeryn''s voice had a hint of shame. "This Jingozi dealer¡ªEmber¡ªwas instrumental in their rescue." I stepped forward, meeting the Queen''s fluid gaze. It was unsettling, those eyes of water seeming to peer straight through me. Zeryn continued, "Ember claims to know Kyra and wishes to speak with her. She... requests an audience with you, my Queen." The statue''s expression remained unreadable, but I sensed a shift. "Ember, at last we meet. I seem to owe you some gratitude for returning my Kyra... and our daughters." "Yes, you do," I replied. "And I want to collect. Release Kyra to me." The statue''s lips curled in a faint smirk. "And why, by the goddess, would I ever do that?" "What you did to her... her punishment, it wasn''t fair." "Fair?" The Queen''s voice took on a mocking tone. "Jingozi is unjust, child. Surely you understand that by now." "Yeah, so I''ve heard. And I¡¯m sick of it. Set her free," I stepped forward. "I want your word." The watery figure leaned down, her voice dripping with disdain. "You are in no position to make demands of me." "I have your daughters, Zenobia. Do not test me. Ask Kyra what I''m capable of. Overlord Edric will be the least of your problems." A bubbly chuckle escaped from the statue, droplets splashing around the basin. I cast a sharp glare at Zeryn. "She speaks true, my Queen," Zeryn murmured. "She possesses Zii powers like none I''ve seen. She bested us... she bested me." Queen Zenobia''s statue rippled momentarily, wavering as if nearly losing form. Then it stilled. "It appears we have all underestimated you, Ember," the statue intoned. "Very well. Kyra will be brought to you¡ªin one fortnight." * * * "In actuality, you weren''t going to kill the children, were you?" Jon''s voice echoed in the Jingozi arena. "Come on, Jon," I said with a faint smile, gazing at his reflection as he rested in bed. "You should know me better than that by now." "I thought I did, but lately you''ve been..." "Been what?" "A touch frightening, I must confess." I was taken aback and paused, considering his words. "If what you say is true, you realize that the Lightslayer is coming for you," Jon continued. "Enslaved water golems power his ships. It''s the fastest fleet in the known kingdoms." "I figured," I sighed. "How are you doing?" ¡°No clue," he shrugged. "Cragmarr is doing all he can. He''s a buff meta." "I see. Well, tell that big ol'' lug I place my faith in his capable hands¡ªnot that I have a choice in the matter." Despite his attempt at levity, my heart sank. I felt utterly helpless. All I could think about were doctors on medical shows saying that talking to coma patients helps their recovery. Except in this case, I could do it for real. I needed to maintain hope¡ªfor both of us. "Hang in there, Jon. How about a drink of spiced wine when you''re better?" "How could I refuse such an offer?" His voice grew soft. "I''ll check in with you later." I blinked out before my emotions got the better of me. * * * I stood on the cliff''s edge, Kitty draped over my shoulders. Cragmarr lingered behind as I faced Zeryn. "How were you planning to take your daughters home?" I asked. "Terragrym," Zeryn replied. "And how long would that journey take?" "We''d travel island by island. It would take us a fortnight to reach our village." I nodded, then asked, "What did you use to communicate with Zenobia?" "Spell stones." "And do you all use them?" "No. Only those who know the Jingozi way wield such power." "Let me see." Zeryn hesitated, then handed over a small pouch. I quickly stashed it in my inventory, catching the wary glances she and Cragmarr exchanged as I summoned their weapons into my inventory. Ignoring their tension, I held out the two spears, a longbow, and a quiver of arrows, offering them back to Zeryn. "Take these and the children, and go." Suspicion flared in Zeryn''s gaze. "Oh, get over it, Huntress," I said. "The Emperor faction is coming for me, and I don''t need the girls caught in the crossfire." Her expression remained doubtful. I met her stare, not backing down. "Fine," I sighed. "If you don''t leave peacefully, I''m one spell stone away from calling on your Queen and spilling the tea on your secret family." I sensed Cragmarr''s silent curiosity, but he held his tongue. After a tense pause, Zeryn finally took the weapons. "We''ll go," she said tightly. "But next time¡ª" "Yeah, yeah," I cut her off with a wave. "You''ll have to get in line." * * * I demonstrated to Cragmarr how my gift evolution worked. "This is most fascinating," Cragmarr''s voice echoed in the Jingozi arena. "Yes, but it has limitations," I said. "It seems I have to be within sight in the physical world to speak to you. I couldn''t reach you if you were too far away." "And you speak to Jon?" "Yes, his body might be shut down, but his mind seems active." "That is encouraging. And letting the Amazons go? More interdimensional chess?" "Yeah, I''m trying to play chess and stay ahead of this game of checkers, if that''s what you mean. But no matter how well I think I''m doing, I still play in 3-D. Forces are playing 4-D chess on dimensions I don''t understand." "Indeed," he nodded with a grunt. "Maybe it is time to play your game? Poker?" "You know, Crag. You''ve got an uncanny habit of saying exactly what I need to hear at the right time." "Thank you, Em." I blinked back to the cliff, joining Cragmarr and Kitty as we watched the three terragryms carrying the Amazons launch from the beach into the ocean. Seyri looked back and waved, much to the chagrin of her mother. I chuckled and waved back. MISSION COMPLETE: RETURN THE CHILDREN Return the Amazon children safely to their faction. "Come on, Crag," I beckoned. "There''s more to catch you up on. And we''re running out of food." * * * The following day, I awoke to a swirling vortex of energy materializing in the courtyard. Sora emerged, her lithe form gracefully stepping through the portal. Sword drawn, she scanned her surroundings. The nexus portal shimmered before collapsing, leaving no trace of its existence. "About time you showed up, Sora," I laughed in relief. "You missed all the fun." I paused, realizing she was alone. "Hey, where''s Kaito?" With sorrow in her eyes, Sora handed me an octranite crystal. Chapter 55: KAITO Chapter 55: KAITO
I found a quiet spot in the crumbling wall, away from the others, and held the crystal in my palm. My fingers trembled as I focused my Zii on it, dreading the message Sora said it contained. "Ember?" Kaito''s voice whispered through the crystal, weak but clear. "Master Xiang assured me you''d be able to hear this. I pray he''s right." A pause, followed by labored breathing. "The wounds... they''re too deep. I''m not going to make it through the portal," he said, his voice cracking. "I wish I could have seen you one more time." I pressed the crystal closer to my chest. "I wanted more time to get to know you better. You''re one of the most incredible people I''ve ever met." Another pause. "Sora told me about where you''re really from¡ªabout the other dimension. I don''t understand how it works, but I pray to the gods you find your way home." My chest tightened as he continued. "Stay strong, Ember. Stay brave. You''re Ninja through and through. Don''t let anyone tell you otherwise. You''ve got this fire in you that just..." His voice faded for a moment. "You''re going to change everything. I know it." I gripped the crystal harder. "Keep fighting, Ember. For all of us. For Hikari. Show them what we''re made of. Goodbye, Ember." The message ended. I sat in silence, a single tear rolling down my cheek. My hand clenched around the crystal, squeezing until my nails pricked my palm and warm blood trickled between my fingers. * * * I wandered deeper into the forest, away from the estate ruins. My fingers traced the bark of an ancient tree. Vegas felt like a lifetime ago. The endless poker tournaments, the social media followers, the book signings¡ªit all seemed hollow now. In poker, you could always walk away from the table¡ªcash out when you were ahead. But this wasn''t poker. The stakes kept rising with each hand I''d been dealt¡ªHikari, Kaito, all the children. I slid down against the tree trunk, pulling my knees to my chest. Back home, the worst that could happen was losing money or face. Here, people died¡ªreal people who trusted and believed in me. My mind drifted to my apartment overlooking the Strip, to Rocky dealing cards and cracking jokes at the table. Simple. Safe. Yet even as I yearned for that simplicity, I knew I couldn''t abandon this world¡ªnot with Kyra still captive, the Emperor faction stealing children, or the Jingozi pulling everyone''s strings. I pulled out one of my Jingozi cards, watching it pulse with energy. The thought of returning home tempted me like a mirage in the desert. But whenever I closed my eyes, I saw Kaito''s face and heard his final words through the crystal. He believed in me and thought I could change things. I pressed my palm against the forest floor, feeling the pulse of Zii beneath the earth. This world was real. Its people were real. Their pain was real. There was no way I could fold now. * * * I found Sora sitting on the estate''s broken wall, her legs dangling over the edge. Kitty purred softly on my shoulders, fast asleep after our long day. "What really happened at the Radiant Temple?" I asked, settling beside her. Sora''s jaw tightened. "The battle was fierce. Many Monks gave their lives defending the temple." Her fingers traced the hilt of her sword. "Kaito... he fought like a demon and honored his guild. But he fell." The coldness in her voice made my skin crawl. Sensing my reaction, she met my gaze, her eyes hard. "This is what war is, Ember." I took a deep breath. "Katorro told me something strange. He said I need to sacrifice three fathers. Back on Earth, I used to have these dreams... Shogun and the Overlord... now I know¡ª" "I don''t know what Katorro meant," Sora interrupted. "But if your visions showed the Emperor and Shogun, then kill them both. That''s two fathers right there." I swallowed hard, thinking of my adoptive father''s face in those dreams but kept that detail to myself.Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings. "Isn''t there any justice in this world?" I asked. "The Jingozi¡ªthey have so much power. Couldn''t they stop Edric?" Sora made an incredulous scoffing sound. "Justice? Our faction doesn''t believe in justice the way you think of it." She stood up, dusting off her suit. "There is only one way this war can end." * * * Cragmarr kneeled beside Jon''s broken body, pressing Zii coins against the elf''s chest. The coins sank in but produced no effect. Jon remained still, his skin ever pale. Cragmarr''s shoulders slumped as I knelt beside him. "I am sorry, Em," he said softly. "Thank you for trying," I replied. "You came just in time to save us." "Tell me what else happened here. I need to understand to help." "I... I don''t know how to start." "Do not use words. Use your fire sight. Show me like you did with the Huntress." "Okay, meditate on my Zii." I closed my eyes and reached for the connection between us. Images flashed¡ªthe rescued children, Jon teaching them to fish, the pirate ships exploding in the harbor, Seyri''s smile, the Amazon attack. In return, Cragmarr''s memories flooded my mind like a torrent of vivid, haunting images. Kaito charged through billowing smoke and leaping flames, his twin blades dancing in arcs. Monks were falling to the relentless assault, their green robes staining the temple stones red. Master Xiang''s face twisted in anguish as he whirled and struck, desperately fighting to protect the sacred grounds of the temple. Through it all, I saw Katorro, his aged frame trembling but his spirit unbroken, directing the remaining defenders from the temple steps with quiet authority despite his blindness. When the connection faded, I caught my breath. "I treated you terribly," I whispered. "After everything you''ve done for me, I pushed you away." "You were angry. Scared. I understand," Cragmarr said, his marble eyes swirling with compassion. "You humankind cope differently with pain." I reached out and hugged him. "Ember, we Golems have no parents like you do. We are born from the elements. But as we interact with other races, and the more I spend time with humankind, some of us long for such relationships... for family." "What are you getting at?" I pulled back, narrowing my eyes. "In a sense, we Golems are all orphans," Cragmarr continued. "Many become slaves to the desire for family, and that is how the other factions have subjugated our kind. Our nature is to serve... that is how we find worth... identity." "What happens?" I asked. "How do you break free?" "Some become cursed, and the demons take hold. We become the Blight. But others channel their pain into becoming the children that all living things deserve. Many of our kind believe in the one source that gives us all life." I blinked into the Jingozi arena. * * * "Alphathir," I spoke after spending a few minutes piecing it together. "Yes, that''s me," the voice responded. "I get it now. What you''ve been trying to tell me. You''re the one that Cragmarr''s talking about. The source." "Yes, Alphathir is the name this dimension has given me." "And you''re the god to end all gods. That''s what you said before. If you can do that, why put us through this¡­ show? It''s all a little much, don''t you think? Kind of like a kid playing god with an ant hill or in a video game?" "This dimension must end, Ember. That is my judgment. But my children do not have to end with it." "So what? We wait for some apocalypse?" "Of course not. That would be foolish. Yes, some will resign themselves to what they call fate. Others will take their destinies into their own hands. The Jingozi continue to rebel, but some of them will believe. That is why you''re here." "This whole time, I thought it was the Jingozi pulling the strings. But it''s you." "I have no control over you, Ember. I would never do that." "You''re sure lining things up, though, right?" "Haven''t I done enough? Aren''t you the one who''s received my gifts? Your eyes are only starting to open." I slumped to the arena floor, my legs giving out beneath me. The pristine white floor felt cool against my palms. "This is too much." My voice cracked. "I''m just... I was just a poker player. A social media personality. I posted pictures of myself at casinos and wrote a book about tells." "You were always more than that." "Stop." I pressed my hands against my temples. "Just stop. I can''t handle any more cryptic wisdom or grand destiny talk. People are dying. Real people. Kaito is dead. Jon might not wake up. And you''re telling me you''re actually a god? That this is all some divine plan?" "I understand your frustration." "No, you don''t!" The words burst out of me. "You sit here and watch us scramble around like rats in a maze. You talk about gifts and destiny while children get sacrificed and good people die horrible deaths." Silence filled the arena. I pulled my knees to my chest, feeling smaller than I ever had. "I said I wouldn''t fold," I whispered. "But what''s the point of fighting if it''s all predetermined? If you''re really a god, then nothing I do matters anyway. It''s all just part of your plan." "That''s not¡ª" "Save it." I wiped my eyes with the back of my hand. "I get it now. I''m powerless. Just another piece on your cosmic game board. You can dress it up however you want, talk about gifts and choices, but in the end, you''re the one moving all the pieces." The familiar weight of defeat settled over me¡ªthe same feeling I''d had in those early days at the orphanage, realizing no one was coming to save me. Some things were just too big to fight against. "Then I give up. If all this is just a game to everybody, please send me home." I clasped my hands together like a prayer. "You can let this play out just the way you want. Just keep me out of it." "No. I won''t. You are not done." I screamed. Every ounce of rage, every drop of despair, every shred of pain I''d bottled up since arriving in this nightmare dimension ripped out of my throat. Alphathir said nothing. I waited, my throat raw, but as usual, silence answered. * * * "Ah yes, Alpathir," Jon chuckled. "I''ve been getting to know him. It turns out he''s the one who urged me to turn my life around." I lay beside Jon''s reflection, exhausted from my tantrum moments before. "Why didn''t you tell me?" I asked. "So you could accuse me of losing my sanity?" Jon replied. "And now you''re saying we''ve been talking to the same god all along?" "It appears so, my dear. However, it seems you hold a special place in the god''s heart. The rest of us would be branded heretics and put to the flames if we shared what you revealed. But you should know, Ember, he''s not the only god." "Are you being serious right now?" "The Jingozi believe in three other powerful beings. They''re known as Zebelma, Zorbalith and Zammin. Our lovely friend, Lance the Lightslayer, serves the goddess Zebelma. Together, they seek to destroy all that Alphathir holds dear." "Gods and games¡­ what have I gotten myself into?" "A curiosity indeed. This dimension has never encountered someone like you." "Just tell me what to do, Jon. I''m so tired." "Do what you know is right." "And what''s that, exactly?" "Alpathir said it himself: he doesn''t control you. Nobody does. Since the fateful day we crossed paths, you''ve been doing one thing¡ªthe only thing you know how to do..." "Fight." "Yes." "Alright, Jon. Let''s finish this." "Now that''s the Ember I''ve come to adore." Chapter 56: SHOGUN Chapter 56: SHOGUN
I finished my Zii-Kata routine in the Jingozi arena, feeling the energy flow through me, and my next spell card materialized. I hadn''t noticed until now that the nexus here amplified all my abilities. Mentally, I''d never experienced such a boost, including how quickly I learned spells. Feeling a surge of resolve, I was ready for whatever test awaited. A figure rose through the Jingozi floor, chilling my spine. It was the Shogun, the assassinated leader of the Samurai faction. His traditional armor and the deep crimson and gold of his robes reflected in the obsidian floor of the arena. He appeared revitalized, except for the gruesome, bloody, gaping hole where his left eye should have been. The wound looked fresh, still oozing crimson from where Overlord Edric''s wand had penetrated his skull. Instinctively, I snatched the spell card from the air, my fingers closing around it tightly. Without a second thought, I blinked and transported myself out of the Jingozi arena, leaving the Shogun behind. I found myself back in the courtyard, sitting across from Sora. In the background, Kitty romped through the garden, snapping up bugs. I looked down and realized my hands were shaking. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A POWER CARD Force Field III "What did you see?" Sora asked, looking up from her meditation. I took a deep breath. "I saw the Shogun in the arena. I think... I think he''s still alive, trapped somehow by the Jingozi." Sora scowled, but before she could respond, Cragmarr joined us. "What is the plan, Em?" he asked. "You should have killed those Amazons when you had the chance," Sora said, her expression hardening. "It would have helped you level up." "No," I shook my head. "That would have ruined any chance of making things right with Kyra." "Princess Kyra?" Cragmarr said, surprised. "She''s not a princess anymore. After what we... what I did, she was stripped of her title and sent to some camp." "The Reforging Grounds," Sora said grimly. "I''ve heard of such places where Amazons are trained into the fiercest warriors. If this Kyra is there now, she is no longer the Amazon you once knew." "Sora is correct," Cragmarr nodded. "I don''t care," I said. "It''s my mess, and I''ll clean it up." Sora''s lips tightened, but she didn''t push further. "I don''t understand why you want to help people, Ember, but fine. If the Emperor faction is coming, we need to prepare. We''re only three against potentially a hundred soldiers." "What do we do?" I asked. "How do we win?" "Katorro would never leave his home unguarded. There must be an advantage we don''t yet see. I''ll search the compound." "Crag, I know you want to help," I turned to him. "But I need you to stay with Jon." He frowned but nodded. * * * Jon''s condition forced Cragmarr to stay at his side, keeping him on life support using Zii. How Jon even survived that fall was beyond me. The least I could do was visit him through the Jingozi arena. "Hi, Jon," I said, seated beside his reflection. "Ember," his voice replied. "By your visit, am I to assume I''m still in my... condition?" "Yes, but Cragmarr is healing you as we speak." "That''s comforting... at least, it occurs to me it should be." "We''re preparing for Lance to attack."Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site. "Any ideas?" "Not gonna lie, Jon, I''m at a loss." "Well, I guess I can help you out since I might as well make myself useful," Jon gave a playful sigh. "Our faction relies on sheer numbers and brute force, but Lance is cunning. I will tell you their plan on one condition." "And what might that be?" "When this is all over, Ember, you come and join me. We bid farewell to the Jingozi way and build an enterprise we can be proud of¡ªboth of us." "Jon..." "At least consider it... please." "Alright." * * * Sora revealed the entrance to a hidden network of chambers and tunnels beneath Katorro''s estate. The Ninja had been more prepared than I could have imagined. Using my gift in the Jingozi arena, I mapped out the intricate tunnel system crisscrossing the island. Each strategically placed entrance and exit was armed with spikes, spears, and auto-loading crossbows. There were enough food and supplies to last months, maybe even a year. "Katorro could''ve held off an entire army from down here," I muttered, running my hand along the rough stone walls. "That was likely his intention," Sora concurred. I relayed what Jon had told me about Lance''s strategy. A primary force would land on the beach, preceded by cannon fire to soften any defenses, while a smaller group would attempt to ambush from behind. Lance would wait on the ship for the right opportunity, and that''s where he''d be vulnerable if we got to him first. Sora''s eyes narrowed as she processed the information. "We can use that to our advantage," she said. "How did you learn this?" Instead of telling her, I blinked into the Jingozi arena and told her what I''d learned about Overlord Edric''s necromancy. When I blinked back, she leaned against the wall, stunned by the revelation and what had just happened. "I underestimated the Overlord," she said. "He rivals the Jingozi with his evil." "Now you understand why I have to stop him." "I do. And your fire sight?" "I received it from the nexus." "You can sense it?" "Yes. I don''t know how to describe it. It makes me... better." "Yet another reason Master Katorro would pick this battleground." Sora paused, meeting my gaze, her expression softening. "Ember, Katorro..." "I know. He''s dying." "How will you find your champion? Without one, you can''t win the Jingozi tournament." "That''s a problem for future Ember," I said, attempting my best reassuring smile. * * * Together, we formulated a plan. Sora and Kitty would engage the forces sent to flank and ambush us. They''d use the tunnels to harass Lance''s army from behind, wearing them down through guerrilla tactics. I''d figure out how to use my blinking and water-walking abilities to disable the primary attack and draw Lance out where we could defeat him. He was too strong for one of us alone. "Zii conservation will be paramount," Sora said. "We don''t know how long the battle will last, so use the least amount of magic possible. I will train you as we wait." ¡°Crag? You good?¡± I asked. Cragmarr wasn''t thrilled because I knew he wanted to help, but he grudgingly agreed. His loyalty was evident, even if it meant staying out of the fight to take care of Jon. We gathered around the weathered makeshift table, spreading the meager rations from Katorro''s supplies. The smell of dried fish and stale bread filled the air as we finalized our plans. Sora''s eyes gleamed with intensity as she outlined Ninja faction tactics, using a dagger to carve a diagram into the table. "Remember, stealth and misdirection are our greatest weapons. We strike from the shadows, then disappear before they can retaliate." I nodded "I''ll set the traps Jon taught us," I added. "Good. Use the environment against them¡ªpitfalls, tripwires, anything to slow their advance and sow confusion." As we ate, Cragmarr raised a valid concern. "And if things go wrong? We need a fallback plan." Sora and I exchanged glances. "There''s a secluded cove on the island''s far side," I suggested, recalling my earlier aerial view. "Cliffs shelter it with a narrow approach. We could fortify it as a last-stand position." "That''s our muster point if things go wrong," Sora agreed. "Stockpile supplies there, just in case." We spent the next hour detailing escape routes and signals. If we got into trouble, we''d use my crystal earbuds to communicate and regroup at the cove. As we wrapped up, Sora fixed me with a stern gaze. "Remember, Ember. Our strength lies in patience and precision. Don''t let your emotions cloud your judgment." I swallowed hard, knowing she was right. * * * I glared at the Shogun, standing directly behind my next spell card. He stood still, observing me with his one eye. I could zoom in and see right through the hole in his head. A pinhole of light revealed the wound extended out to the other side. Drawing my sword and lunging forward, I swung, my blade whistling through the air. He evaded like smoke, effortlessly gliding away from my attack. I pressed on, unleashing a flurry of strikes using a combination of cards. The nexus boosted every move with energy I''d never experienced before. Yet, no matter how fast or clever my assault, the Shogun remained untouchable. Frustration bubbled up inside me as I watched him draw his sword. The metallic ring of our blades meeting filled the arena. He parried my attacks with infuriating ease, never making an offensive move. It was as if he were toying with me, which only fueled my anger. I tried everything¡ªfeints, chained attacks, even attempting to tackle him. Nothing worked. The Shogun''s defense was impenetrable, his movements fluid and graceful, rendering my increasingly desperate attempts utterly futile. Sweat beaded on my forehead as I fought to catch my breath. My arms burned with exertion. I channeled my fury into one last, powerful strike¡ªan [Evolve] spell¡ªputting everything I had behind it. My sword flashed into a dozen floating blades, rippling with fiery energy. The metal hummed with raw power as the duplicates hung suspended for a heartbeat, each one a perfect mirror of destruction. With a thunderous sound that echoed off invisible walls, they arced high into the air before raining down like a hail of missiles, trailing streaks of amber light in their wake. The Shogun deflected them with bare hands, moving with impossible speed and precision as if swatting away annoying flies. Explosions detonated around him in thunderous bursts of crimson light and raw energy, but he didn''t even flinch¡ªhis stoic gaze locked on me through the chaos, unmoved and unimpressed. A scream of rage tore from my throat. I was hopelessly outmatched and ultimately ineffective. It was maddening. At that moment, I wanted nothing more than to wipe that calm, unperturbed look off the Shogun''s face and put my sword through his other eye. But I couldn''t. No matter what I did, I couldn''t touch him. Finally, my anger gave way to exhaustion and bitter acceptance. I lowered my sword, chest heaving as I glared at my impassive opponent. Without a word, I reached for my spell card and blinked out of the Jingozi arena once again, leaving the undefeated Shogun behind. YOU HAVE RECEIVED A POWER CARD Soul Strike