《Kunoichi Online》 Kunoichi Online: Weaponry STAFF WEAPONRY Damage is calculated based on the character¡¯s strength, the weapon¡¯s attack, and the enemy¡¯s defense. The formula is as follows: DMG = (Weapon Attack + Strength) * Attackers Level/8 - (Target Defense + Evasion) * Defenders Level/8 Staffs and canes have a wide range of uses. Among some of the innovations include, hollowed out and chain for cord weapons secretly concealed inside. Poisoned liquids for powered eye irritants could be housed. In addition, blowgun weaponry can be utilized. These can also be used as an underwater breathing tube. * * * Long-Range Ninja Staff Varied between six to twelve feet in length. Best used against enemies who wield the traditional samurai sword, or spears, halberds, or staffs of similar reach. Attack: 45 * * * Medium-Range Ninja Staff Varied between three to five feet in length. This length is ideal for leverage, pressure point attacks, arm locks, and restraining techniques. Attack: 30 * * * Short-Range Ninja Staff Under two and a half feet in length. These could cleverly be concealed in garments and utilized in an element of a surprise attack. Close range techniques involve strangulation, gouging strikes to the vital organs; attacks to the eyes, nose, and ear cavities; securing wrist locks and arm bars; and reinforcing fist or open-hand punching or striking. Attack: 15 * * * BLADE WEAPONRY Damage is calculated based on the character¡¯s strength, the weapon¡¯s attack, and the enemy¡¯s defense. The formula is as follows: DMG = (Weapon Attack + Strength) * Attackers Level/8 - (Target Defense + Evasion) * Defenders Level/8 * * * Katana Characterized by a curved, single-edged blade with a circular or squared guard and long grip to accommodate two hands. Often carried by the samurai of Nara. Roughly between 4 and 5 feet in length. Made of steel. Attack: 30 * * * Ninjat¨­ The ninjat¨­ is a short blade and is usually straight. Similar to the samurai katana, but smaller, easier to conceal. Made of steel. Attack: 15 * * * Shinobigatana Similar to the ninjat¨­, but curved and slightly larger. Made of steel, just like the katana and ninjat¨­. Attack: 50 * * * Silencer Forged from an ice mage from the mountain of Kusimari, this sword is made from frozen Shizen Steel, denser than normal steel, therefore it is more sturdy and can cut through metal if the swing is performed with the correct user. The user must be pure of heart, above the 3. Self in their convictions. Attack: 95 * * * Omega - The Final Blow Crafted from crystallized gold, it is unmistakable from its obsidian handle. Able to deal a lethal blow to any as long as the wielder has obtained 6. Peace on their convictions. Sentient elves crafted this sword under the blood moon, taking the evil from the blood moon¡¯s reign and repurposing that energy into good that punishes evil. Attack: 103 * * * Spineripper - The Last Hope for the Dark Souls The practitioner must be 2. Order or lower to even pick up the sword. Goblins produced this sword of blackened crystal/iron, which can absorb and drain the life force. Weapons forged from blackened crystalrequire themto be saturated with health from a stimulant, usually fire, and can merely be competentlywielded by the Dead.Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there. Attack: 83 * * * Soulblade, Token of Eternal Bloodlust To perfectly use this blade, one must be at the 1. Chaos character conviction and will deal a lethal blow if the target is of 4. Loyalty or higher. Attack: 95 * * * Sword of Valeria Created from the gods of Pitchu Peak, this sword was crafted from the finest frozen alabaster nickel. There is nothing that it cannot cut through. It is the superior sword of them all, best used with a user who has attained 6. Peace on their conviction as a pure heart is best. Attack: 150 * * * SICKLE WEAPONRY Damage is calculated based on the character¡¯s strength, the weapon¡¯s attack, and the enemy¡¯s defense. The formula is as follows: DMG = (Weapon Attack + Strength) * Attackers Level/8 - (Target Defense + Evasion) * Defenders Level/8 * * * Kusarigama Kusarigama is a weapon that includes a sickle and a weight and appearsextremely complex. It joins the two components with a tethering chain. The range of the tether is about 1-3 feet. To control it, the weight was thrown at the enemy¡¯s weapon to knock it or lassothe weight in an arm or the enemy¡¯s weapon with the chain. After that, the practitioner would deala finishing blowwith the sickle to the enemy. The techniques of handling Kusarigama are so diverse that users can strike in any way using a combination of a sickle and a weight. It depends upon the ability of the user. The Kusarigama is the right weapon for Ninjas who have superior ability in body use. Attack: 50 * * * SHURIKEN WEAPONRY Damage is calculated based on the character¡¯s strength, the weapon¡¯s attack, and the enemy¡¯s defense. The formula is as follows: DMG = (Weapon Attack + Strength) * Attackers Level/8 - (Target Defense + Evasion) * Defenders Level/8 * * * Shuriken Star-shaped weaponry designed to minimize the chances of missing. The art of throwing star-shaped shuriken was an exact science and required countless hours to perfect. Gripping methods, throwing positions, drawing, trajectory, and penetration must all be factored in when using this weapon. Attack: 20 * * * Sai-Shuriken The Sai, the intimidating blocking, trapping and stabbing weapon. The style includes a variety of blocks, parries, strikes, and captures against attackers from all directions and height levels. Attack: 30 * * * WEIGHTED CHAIN WEAPONRY Damage is calculated based on the character¡¯s strength, the weapon¡¯s attack, and the enemy¡¯s defense. The formula is as follows: DMG = (Weapon Attack + Strength) * Attackers Level/8 - (Target Defense + Evasion) * Defenders Level/8 * * * Ninjas rely extensively on the flexibility of the weighted chain weaponry. They proved to be effective in combat. Manrikigusari Using only one hand to manipulate the tool and usually must be brought from a place of concealment with the one hand. Snap-strikes, circular twirls, lasso techniques, figure-eight omnidirectional offensive-defensive techniques were some of the effective advancements with this weighted chain weapon. Attack: 45 * * * AIR-PROPELLED WEAPONRY Damage is calculated based on the character¡¯s strength, the weapon¡¯s attack, and the enemy¡¯s defense. The formula is as follows: DMG = (Weapon Attack + Strength) * Attackers Level/8 - (Target Defense + Evasion) * Defenders Level/8 * * * Blow Gun Hollowed pipe applied to shoot a target in the air at a target. It can use arrows, needles, darts, or poison darts inside the tube. It can use an instrument to obscure the blowgun. The structure of the blowgun is that it has several holes on the frame for the adjustmentsso they can use itas a music pipe. Inside of the body, however, a coiled Japanese paper. By revolving the paper, the holes can be closed then they can use the pipeas a blowgun. Attack: 0 * * * Darts The length of the dart tip had a direct proportion to the depth of penetration. Other factors contributed as well. The length of the fukidake- the hollowed out tube. Other contributing factors, drag in relation to blow pressure. All of these played a role in the effectiveness of darts. Attack: 42 * * * Poison Darts Shinobi were aware that deep penetration was not necessary to be effective when using darts. The ninjas studied the bodies and knew where arteries and veins ran close to the surface of the skin. This was particularly true for the poison darts. Highly toxic poisons were smeared on the tip of the dart. Attack: 89 * * * PYROTECHNIC WEAPONRY Damage is calculated based on the character¡¯s strength, the weapon¡¯s attack, and the enemy¡¯s defense. The formula is as follows: DMG = (Weapon Attack + Strength) * Attackers Level/8 - (Target Defense + Evasion) * Defenders Level/8 * * * Noroshi Zutsu An ash and sulfur mixture compound into small balls and placed into a pipe. These were lit and used for signals. Attack: 29 * * * Dobi A container for transporting lit kindling coals for signal fires or setting off explosives. Attack:40 * * * Rosoku Tate Essentially a candlestick. Used to ignite explosives, send signals, and lighting a torch. Attack: 48 * * * Tanagokooro-Taimatsu A small hand torch concealed in the palm. The extravagant device that allowed the flame to be contained without emitting light so the ninja could not be detected. Attack: 48 * * * Nage Teppo Hand grenades. Created a vast amount of smoke and explosion, depending on the mixture and the intended purpose. Could be propelled into the air by being thrown, used in a slingshot, and or arrow. Attack: 69 * * * POISONS Damage is calculated based on the character¡¯s strength, the weapon¡¯s attack, and the enemy¡¯s defense. The formula is as follows: DMG = (Weapon Attack + Strength) * Attackers Level/8 - (Target Defense + Evasion) * Defenders Level/8 * * * Ratsbane This is a toxin to poison rats. Ratsbane contains arsenic and individuals can be murdered with ratsbane too. Attack: 49 * * * Zakarashi This toxinhas "amygdalin " located in unripe Ume (plums) fruit. As amygdalin carries powerful toxicity and there were Ume trees here and there in Nara, ninjas were competent incollecting amygdalin easily from anywhere in Nara. 59 * * * Poison in tea This is the toxin with elements fromtea. Catechin involves a powerful bactericidal reaction that kills germs in the stomach and tannin can fix the bowel. When these properties are formed in surplus individuals become ill. Catechin devastates the gastrointestinal and tannin brings about nausea. The ninja would insert deep green tea into a bamboo vessel and bury it in the ground. One month later, when taken out, the tea would have developed into apoisonous liquid. If a ninja made someone secretly drink a few drops of the liquid, even if they were healthy, they would be sick within a month, and they would be dead after a few months. Attack: 79 * * * Appendices: Kunoichi Online Rulebook Rank and Level A character has a rank assigned to them after creation based on their ability scores. This rank signifies the character¡¯s influence, power, and prestige within the clan. Most characters begin at Chunin, the middle rank, but sometimes a lower rank is chosen for them. The Chunin rank would allow the ninja to have cultivated respect in their clans and would have proven themselves to their peers, subordinates, and supervisors. Those of higher ranks are able to command those of lower ranks. Ninjas in the hierarchy are obligated to obey an order from those above them. Below, the table shows how many skills, ninpo, secrets, and Honor Beads each rank earns as they increase their level. Honor Bead represents how much service a character has rendered to their clan. The more Honor Bead accumulated, the more powerful they become. The more Flaws a character begins with, the more likely they are able to accumulate Honor Bead and quicker. The Rank displayed below indicates how much Honor Bead to move into that position is required. For example, Jonin costs 20 Honor Beads. Once those are spent, and the Rank is attained, the character begins back at zero, accumulating more Honor Beads for the next Rank. Each increase in Rank is permanent, and with that brings increased skills and Ninpo. Level 1: Batta Grasshopper, the academy student who is not considered a ninja yet. May have been recruited by a clan and are learning the basic skills and martial arts to become a ninja. Ninpo: 0 Skills: 2 Secrets: - Honor Beads: - Level 2: Genin The lowest level of the ninja. Are responsible for the low-level missions that take a day or less to complete. Typically performing low-risk jobs. Could be pulled to do higher-level missions toward the end of this phase. Ninpo: 2 Skills: 4 Secrets: - Honor Beads: - Level 3: Genin-Gashira Sent on C-rank missions, and are on the verge of becoming a real ninja. Have some leadership over Genin. They have developed teamwork skills. Ninpo: 3 Skills: 5 Secrets: - Honor Beads: - Level 4: Chunin These have qualified to guide and have power over other ninjas. Have tactical prowess, and are honing their leadership skills. Ninpo: 3 Skills: 6 Secrets: - Honor Beads: - Level 5: Chunin-Gashira The level below becoming the equivalent of a military captain. A Chunin-Gashira is able to command Chunin. Some of these are teachers and trainers and demonstrate leadership skills. Ninpo: 4 Skills: 6 Secrets: 1 Honor Beads: 10 Level 6: Jonin Highly-Experienced ninjas with great military skill. Often a captain in the clan, they are deployed on the A-rank missions. It could be sent on the S-rank missions, which are considered to be the most difficult. Ninpo: 6 Skills: 7 Secrets: 1 Honor Beads: 20 Level 7: Jounin-Gashira This ninja is specialized in a single area or skill, yet still competent in the all-around skills that they have developed over the years, yet specifically focus on one skill that they have mastered. Ninpo: 8 Skills: 8 Secrets: 2 Honor Beads: 50 Level 8: Kage Those who achieve the rank of Kage are the leaders of their clans. There are seven clans, and these would be the most powerful ninjas in all the land. Once the title is granted, it is held permanently until it is passed on to a more youthful ninja. Typically a Kage would have family members who were passed Kages. Ninpo: 10 Skills: 10 Secrets: 4 Honor Beads: 100 Attributes Advancements Advancements represent the ability to. Effectively use various tools and devices. Members of the Kagaku Clan are particularly skillful at using the Advancements Ability. Manipulation Is the ability to make things happen in accordance with their plan. The practitioners who have honed their Manipulation Ability are keen on diplomacy, negotiations, and persuasion. They have a knack for influences others. Members of the Himitsu Agency are exceptionally skilled at manipulation. Tactical Combat The ability and techniques used to hone one¡¯s control of their body. This ability allows the practitioner to move extensively quickly and extremely capable on the battlefield. Members of the Senshi Clan are skilled in this category. Covertness This ability represents the character¡¯s ability to hide one¡¯s presence and at the same time confusing and misdirecting. others. Those who specialize in this ability have heightened senses and are adept at self-preservation. The Band of Tsuiho is exceptionally skilled at Covertness. Methodology The Methodology Attribute represents the ability to improve one¡¯s chances of winning a mission or battle by having a strong analytical mind and excellence in command on the battlefield. Members of there Erito Preparatory Academy are particularly well skilled in Methodology. Dark Arts Includes knowledge of magic, mysticism, manipulation of otherworldly forces relating to the dark side. Practitioners of the Dark Arts leverage the powers of the cosmos to utilize legendary and ancient rune powers, lean on esoteric religious powers and practice blood magic. The Clan of the Black Harvest is the keepers of the Dark Arts. Attributes and Abilities Advancements: Accuracy + IntelligenceYou might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version. Manipulation: Luck + Evasion Tactical Combat: Strength + Agility Covertness: Evasion + Defense Methodology: Stamina + Attack Dark Arts: Intelligence + Evasion Advancements Acupuncture Able to use needles to heal or hurt. Also knowledge of pressure points. Pyromancy Use of fire-based tools and knowledge of the properties of handling fire and heat. Can set things on fire quickly. Torture Knowledge of various forms and tools of torture, how to use and inflict pain to get what they desire. Advanced Armor Advancement in creating armor that the other clans do not have. Heightens defense and absorbing damage. Rope Work Skills associated with tying knots securely, throwing ropes, and creating nets. Mainly for the use of capturing people or securing them. Hydromancy Use of tools that control water, expert diver. Includes knowledge and application of various other liquids. Hidden Weapons The ability to conceal weapons in equipment and everyday items, as well as the use of such weapons. Medicine Knowledge and application of how to use various substances to heal illness, treat wounds, or heal other ailments. Demolition Knowledge and application of destruction of locks, windows, mechanical devices, and the like without the use of explosive devices. Farming Advanced knowledge and application in farming techniques. Able to grow highly nutritious vegetables in a quick amount of time. Engineering The ability to create and effectively use and repair machines and mechanical devices. Manipulation Poison Knowledge of the application of various poisons, toxins, potions. Knowledge of how to use and employ them effectively and able to create them, rendering them undetectable by taste or odor. Seduction Using charisma, intrigue, and mystery to control or deceive people. Trapping The ability to set and avoid traps. Able to use various traps and mechanisms on intruders or pursuers. Intimidation Influence someone with overt threats, hostile actions, or physical violence. Pry information from a prisoner, confront thugs on the street or use a weapon to convince an assassin to choose another mark. Deception The ability to hide their true intentions and able to detect when others are lying. Performance Abilities with the arts, such as music or dance. They can memorize and captivate those watching. Rumor Mongering Able to create new information, whether true or false and spread it through various networks of people to achieve a task at hand. Interrogation Able to pull together information and evidence on people to get them to confess secrets. Diversion Create a commotion so one is able to conceal themselves from enemies, slink past guards, or slip away without being noticed. Hypnosis Gain control over someone or a creature by mesmerizing them with an oscillating object. Unlike domination, this does not use the dark arts. Shaming Able to use sarcasm and put-downs to increase fear and self-doubt in a target. Usually, the target has an emotional connection to the one who is doing the shaming. Tactical Combat Sleight of Hand Extreme and precise hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity. Can perform precise movements and quickly execute ninja secret/magical hand-gestures (Kuji-in). Can plant an object on something or someone, conceal an object on oneself, and can steal or lift an object from another. Footwork Walking without making noise, able to keep footing and balance, able to hit long distances. Contortionist Able to manipulate one¡¯s own body with ease while keeping perfect balance, dislocating joints, and extreme flexibility. Speed Attack and run extremely fast. Art of moving oneself from place to place very quickly. Endurance Able to travel long distances without needing a break. Can engage in long battles without experience reduction in mana. Can hold their breath for long time, march or labor for hours without rest, go without sleep, survive without food or water. Aerial Arts The ability to leap vast distances, glide through the air, and land safely when falling from great heights. Acrobatics Stay on one¡¯s feet in a tricky situation. Able to run across ice, stay upright while a rocking ship is being tossed by a tempest. Able to dive, roll, and perform acrobatic stunts and flips. Hand to Hand Ability with grappling and unarmed combat. Can fight with one¡¯s bare hands. Blade Mastery of all melee weapons containing a blade. Such as sword, katana, or ninjato. Strength Lift, care, and throw incredibly heavy objects. It can increase damage when in battle. Athleticism Able to climb, jump, swim, or run with ease. Can jump an unusually long distance or pull off a stunt jump. Can swim in treacherous currents. Covertness Escape Able to free oneself, run away from predicaments, or slide out of slippery situations. Evasion Escapee and avoid sticky situations. Master at excuses for why something did not happen. Interception Ability to listen through walls and from above ceilings to gather information. Able to convince messengers to give you the message rather than the intended party. Ventriloquism Ability to make a sound or mimic the voice of others. It can throw one¡¯s voice and appear as though someone is talking when they are creating the voice for said person. Invisibility Make oneself not visible to others. Disguise Master at pulling together convincing disguises to blend in, masquerade as an authority figure, or conceal oneself when being targeted. Multiplicity Perform many tasks at once or able to create multiple clones of oneself. Concealment Able to conceal themselves or an object in plain sight. Craftiness Shrewd in deception and trickery. Cleverly deceitful at achieving a task at hand. Earn the trust of others quickly, only to take advantage of them. Have little emotional connection to victims. Fraudulence Able to forge a document. Masquerade as another to swindle. Make relationships to take advantage of another. Able to sell fake artifacts. Burglary Able to infiltrate a premise undetected for the purpose of espionage or lifting an item. Able to creep in the black of night. Methodology Husbandry Able to communicate with creatures without using words. Calm a domesticated animal, keep a mount from getting spooked, or understand an animal¡¯s intentions. Analysis Ability to analyze the movements of an enemy and break down their powers and capabilities. Memory Remember facts and recall specific details. Able to memorize writing and glyphs just by looking at them. Contacts Utilize channels of networks of people, both in the underbelly of the ninja clans and in regular life. Have friends in high places. Encryption Able to encode and decode messages with ease. Has a cunning use of metaphors, able to use hidden gestures and secret languages to transport messages. Signal Able to use signals, signs, writing, hidden messages, and calligraphy, to pass the information on. Insight Determine the intentions of someone or something. Can search out a lie or predict someone¡¯s next move. Can glean clues from body language, speech patterns, and changes in mannerisms. Tactics Ability to move efficiently and effectively within units and troops. Able to infiltrate an army with ease. Perception Spot, hear or detect the presence of something or someone. Measures general awareness of one¡¯s surroundings. Able to hear a conversation through a closed door, eavesdrop under an open window or hear the stealth movement of monsters. Able to spot obscured items. Nature Knowledge of terrain, plants, animals, weather, and natural cycles to use toward a plan. History Able to recall lore about historical events, legends, people, ancient kingdoms, past disputes, recent and ancient wars, and lost civilizations to make decisions about the task at hand. Dark Arts Necromancy Control and summon creatures from the dead. Bring to life deceased bodies, able to bring forward departed spirits. Illusion It can create realism and believable illusions to manipulate other¡¯s senses. Sensory deception and trickery. Domination With a longing look into one¡¯s eye, they are able to command them with the power of suggestion or hypnosis. Summoning Specifically, summon demons and evildoers from other planes and realms to assist with tasks and missions. Conjuring Able to produce creatures and objects from another plane. Transmutation Able to change energy and matter into different substances. Similar to alchemy. Transformation Able to change parts of one¡¯s body into something else. Clairvoyance Capable of seeing visions of events in faraway places or in distant past or future. Curse Summoning the dark arts to curse another and bring misfortune, misery, and disaster upon others. Channeling Have others come and speak through one¡¯s body. Summon spirits to impart information. Possession Can head hop into different beings, taking over their bodies and controlling them to do acts against their will. Character Convictions Characters are created from a sense of perfection that they hold. As a rule, a character will make a decision based on their innate conviction. 1. Chaos Seeks strife, destruction of society, destruction of self and order. A loose cannon loves to watch things go up in flames. 2. Order Demands the world behave through the rule of law. They cannot tolerate hypocrisy. Seeks to correct the world and restore order in it. 3. Self Looking out for numero uno first. The first priorities are honor, money, power, status, idea, and safety. Always striving to further a personal goal. Rarely care about someone else. 4. Passion Believes in love. Loving friends, families, and significant others as well as passions for missions and doing a good job. Overall, a passionate person. Protect those who they are passionate about. 5. Loyalty Willing to sacrifice yourself for the clan, a higher purpose, or a belief. 6. Peace The belief that one day Nara and Ukiyo Komorebi will be at peace, walking the path of perfect brotherhood. Emotional Bonds When engaged with another character during an encounter, a player will form an emotional bond based on their conviction toward the other. If an Emotional Bond already exists, the bond may be replaced with a new bond based on the circumstance. The bonds are chosen at random. Convictions 1-3 will have a negative Emotional Bond 75% of the time. Conviction 4 will have a 50% chance of having a positive or negative Bond, and Convictions 5-7 will have a 75% chance of having a positive Bond. Both negative and positive Emotional Bonds and the Bond chosen are done by random. The bonds are developed within clans and among clans and add to the complexity of the game. Positive 1. Sympathy 2. Kinship 3. Physical touch 4. Brotherhood 5. Adoration 6. Faithfulness Negative 1. Mistrust 2. Anger 3. Jealousy 4. Hate 5. Inadequacy 6. Deadly and Destructive Intentions Character Covers by Clan Kagaku Clan Researcher Mechanic Engineer Artisan Doctor Architect Himitsu Agency Bureaucrat Samurai Police Lawyer Politician Religious Leader Senshi Clan Detective Martial Artist Athlete Bodyguard Mercenary Security Guard Er¨©to Preparatory Academy Primary School Student Secondary School Student High School Student College Student Professor Teacher Lecturer Head of School Band of Tsuih¨­ Day Laborer Artist Waiter/Waitress Gambler Writer Wanderer Religious Zealot Clan of the Black Harvest Traveler Revolutionary Activist Poet Trader/Importer Monk Kanga Clan Performer Wife Waitress Bartender Prostitute Geisha Samurai Librarian Religious Devotee Life Points The Life Points (LP) correspond to the six Attributes, one LP is assigned to each of the Attributes. 10 points of damage equal to one LP. Once a player character loses the LP in that attribute, they can no longer use any of the skills or ninpo from that category. Chapter One ¡°Not again,¡± Ayuka muttered to herself as her Calculus I professor handed back her graded test with a percentage written at the top in red, 58%. Next to the percentage, a large F circled in red ink seemed to radiate for the students who sat behind her to see. Ayuka felt small, inadequate, and like a failure. All she wanted to do was toearn a computer science degree from California College, San Francisco and get a job with Google or a start-up app company somewhere in Silicon Valley. Ayuka¡¯s hands grew sweaty, holding the four exam pages in her hands, she stared at her result from days of studying and cramming for the exam. This was her second F on an exam. This meant she would most likely not pass Calculus, the last math class she needed to earn her degree and be done with college. Her only option was to speak with the professor after class, and for her to discuss her options with him. Soon after everyone received their exams, the students left for the day. Ayuka waited until no one was left in class before she approached Professor Richardson. ¡°Professor,¡± Ayuka started, walking up to his desk as he gathered his papers, piling them in his briefcase. Professor Richardson was near the end of his career, so to retire. He had taught calculus classes at several universities before teaching at California College in San Francisco, attaining the prestigious position of being chair of the math department. Professor Richardson lifted his eyes, peering over his bifocals. ¡°Ayuka?¡± he answered. ¡°I¡¯m sure you want to speak to me about your test.¡± ¡°Correct,¡± replied Ayuka. Herfather and mother both would have beat her for such a bad mark if they ever found out. She needed to do something, anything to prevent failing. This was the last credit she needed for her degree, and one she had been putting off because she hated math. ¡°Well, there¡¯s not much to discuss,¡± Professor Richardson stated. ¡°You needed to get at least a C on the second exam to have any chance of passing this class. You neglected to do that, so I¡¯m sorry. You are going to fail this course. I would recommend that you withdraw from the course today. It¡¯s still early enough that the grade won¡¯t appear on your transcript, but you mustretake Calculus I next semester.¡± ¡°But, Professor. I can¡¯t afford to take this course again. This is my last semester, and my scholarship runs out,¡± explained Ayuka, realizing her situation grew more and more desperate. ¡°There is nothing I can do. Extra credit? Anything?¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry, no. Perhaps you should have studied more. I offer again the coursein the fall. I recommend that you withdraw this class and when classes open for next year, enroll then.¡± Professor Richardson paused and looked at his wristwatch. ¡°I¡¯m late for a chair meeting. I have to get going.¡± He lowered his gaze to the floor and walked at a brisk pace out of the classroom leaving Ayuka there, by herself, as if she was a nobody. Ayuka blinked her eyes, trying to hold back the tears that accumulated. The blinking could not hold them back, and tears bubbled at the corners of her eye, flowing down her cheeks. She had been looking forward to graduating this semester and interviewing over the summer with Google. If only she could pass Calculus I, the one class stopping her from her dreams. The next class that met in the classroom where Ayuka stood, crying, filtered in. They looked at her, and she could no longer bear the other students watching her in this state, that she ran out of the classroom to find a restroom. * * * Splashing water on her face, she washed off the salty residue the stream of tears left that. Looking at her reflection in the mirror, she did not know how she would tell her parents that she would need to borrow a few thousand dollars to retake Calculus I. All she wanted to do was to be done with school and on to making money. She grew up in Oakland, in a rough area. Her parents were immigrants from Japan and could neverget a good footing in the economy. Neither of them went to college, and that was the one thing they instilled in Ayuka. She would be their family¡¯s first college graduate. The first three years were easy for Ayuka. She passed her classes, stayed up late writing term papers, drinking gallons of coffee to cram for what seemed like an endless number of tests, and never missed one class. Never. This was the type ofwork ethic that got her into California College, San Francisco, one of the most prestigious schools for computer science, and on a scholarship. Ayuka felt as though this was her ticket out of the bad neighborhood she grew up in, out of poverty, and out of feeling trapped. She looked at her reflection and could not help the feeling of worthlessness seeping into her conscience. Ayuka hated feeling like this, but she knew no other way of feeling when things did not go the way she planned them to. This very feeling was whatkept her motivated to succeed. Ayuka could not take being held in limbo any longer. That was what college felt like for her. It was her way out, but now it was preventing her from getting to the next level. Not a child, but not an adult, yet. Not until she was earning a wage herself. The thought of taking another semester was enough to have her laying on the floor, in the fettle position, wailing. Then an idea came to her. She could get her degree this semester. All she would have to do would be to find another Calculus I class at one of the community colleges nearby that started the second half of the semester. She would need to take it, pass it, and pray that the credit would transfer to satisfy the math requirement she needed for her computer science class. With the plan firmly placed in her mind, she rushed back to her apartment to find if such a class existed. * * * One the way back to her apartment, she received a phone call from her parents. What could they have wanted now? ¡°Hello?¡± Ayuka said as she swiped the bottom of her phone to answer the call. ¡°Hey, girl! How are you doing?¡± Ayuka¡¯s mom asked. ¡°I¡¯m good. A tad busy right now. Why? You rarely call in the middle of the day?¡± ¡°Oh, right? I just wanted to let you know that we are flying in your grandparents for your graduation in two months,¡± answered her mother. ¡°I haven¡¯t seen them since you were a baby. I¡¯m very excited, wanted to let you know.¡± ¡°That¡¯s great mom,¡± said Ayuka, fighting back the tears, walking faster to solve the problem that transpired earlier in the day. The very problem that made this conversation near unbearable. With a plan in place, Ayuka made it to her apartment she shared with two other roommates who also went to California College. Heroki and Keiko both seemed to come from money, which seemed to always leave Ayuka out. They were friends from church, and Ayuka often wondered if they agreed to share an apartment with her because they felt bad for her. Thankfully, with the scholarships that Ayuka received, she did not have to work a part-time job, but she was still always late with the rent and contributed less to their monthly food budget.This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. Heroki was the daughter of a real estate mogul in the Bay Area and Keiko the daughter of an intellectual property attorney. Their lifestyles were a sharp contrast to Ayuka¡¯s, whose parents both worked at the Daily 99, a discount shop in Oakland. Ayuka busted through the door, intent on finding a Calculus I class at one of the local community colleges to enroll in. Her last-ditch effort to graduate by the end of the Spring Semester. ¡°Hey Ayuka, how was your day?¡± Keiko asked she was making a snack in the kitchen. ¡°Worst day ever!¡± Ayuka replied, too busy setting her bags down and anxious to get to her computer to even look in Keiko¡¯s direction. ¡°Why? What happened?¡± Keiko said, coming toward Ayuka from the kitchen. Ayuka sat on the couch, staring intently at her laptop screen. ¡°Failed my calc exam,¡± answered Ayuka not making eye contact with Keiko. ¡°Oh dear. Sorry. I know how much you studied for it,¡± Keiko replied, sitting next to Ayuka. ¡°What are you doing?¡± ¡°Trying to see if I can add a calculus class at San Francisco Community, or someplace nearby.¡± ¡°Good plan. The only issue is that you would have to pass it,¡± affirmed Keiko, nodding as she looked at the computer screen along with Ayuka. ¡°Still not sure why you waited until your last semester to take that class, knowing it was a requirement for your degree.¡± ¡°Right. I was seeking to avoid it if possible,¡± Ayuka ignored the admonishment, justified in her action despite being putting herself into the predicament. ¡°You will neverthelesshave topass it if you can get into a class,¡± repeated Keiko. ¡°I¡¯ll cross that bridge when I get to it. I first need to see if there is a second session Calculus I class. That¡¯s the first hurdle.¡± The secret that Ayuka did not want anyone to know was that she had cheated her way through high school, through middle school, and even though elementary school. One thing that Ayuka was good at was getting someone who could help her. She always had sung the same song, that her family could not afford to get her tutoring. Eventually, she would find someone in class to give her answers. Reading was particularlydifficult for Ayuka. She learned to speak English fluently, even though her parents spoke mostly Japanese and broken English. However, reading was problematic for her. Higher-level math was another struggle, but when Ayuka found computer programming, something clicked. During college, she found people to help her. She paid someone to write papers for her during her underclassman years. However, her programming classes, those she invariably did her own work in. Her passion was gaming, and Ayuka put in the extra work to learn the various programming languages and coding to create video games. With this learned behavior, Ayuka found that she was not confident in her own abilities unless it dealt with gaming and programming. Not able to read well, could perform some math, but could code with the best of them was how she saw herself. For her, cheating her way through school was far easier than learning the material. When Ayuka earned all of her scholarships her senior year, she felt as though the world owed it to her. Growing up on the wrong side of town, Ayuka wondered how she would compete with others who had tutors, the top teachers in the school and attended the top schools. Cheating was the wayto get back at the world for Ayuka. * * * The knob of the front door turned as it was unlocked. ¡°That must be Heroki,¡± Keiko concluded. Keiko looked over her shoulder and the back of the couch, ¡°Hey Heroki, how was your day?¡± Heroki hung up her keys and put down her bag, glancing at Ayuka and Keiko on the couch. ¡°Ayuka, you¡¯re usually not homeat this time? Everything all right?¡± ¡°I¡¯m missing my programming class to figure out a way so I can graduate on time,¡± answered Ayuka. ¡°Graduate on time? Thought you were going to be fine,¡± replied Heroki in astonishment. Ayuka felt a flush creep into her cheeks, which was an equalpart of shame and embarrassment coupled with anger. ¡°Found out I failed my calc exam and now there is no way I¡¯m going to pass the class,¡± answered Ayuka. ¡°Gees, Ayuka. That is not good news,¡± Heroki responded. ¡°The only offer the class on Fall and Spring semesters at California College, so I¡¯m trying to take it at a community college to try totransfer the credit over,¡± explained Ayuka. ¡°Sounds like a long shot,¡± retorted Heroki, joining Keiko and Ayuka on the couch. ¡°Why do you say that?¡± Keiko asked. ¡°Well, she willneed to add it, if she can find an open class. Pass the class, where she¡¯s already failed it once and didn¡¯t give herself enough time to learn the material since she didn¡¯t get it once before. Then she mustpetition her department to allow that class to qualify for a course at California College. I¡¯m thinking that¡¯s a long shot!¡± Heroki elaborated. It was clearthat Heroki was interjecting a realistic take on Ayuka¡¯s plan. There was a silence among the roommates as Ayuka seemed to lose faith in her plan. She did not know where to turn or what to do. The phone call with her mom weighed on her, as her parents planned on coming to her graduation and flying her grandparents out. Little did they know that there would not be at graduation. California College¡¯s new policy was not to let students participate in the graduation ceremony until she fulfilled all graduation requirements. She did not know where she would turn or what she would do. ¡°Gees Ayuka. You¡¯ve really gotten yourself in a bind. Our lease is up in May, right after graduation. We¡¯ll all be moving out of here. Do you have somewhere you can go to finish up your degree?¡± Heroki asked. The gravity of the situation began to sit in with Ayuka. She slammed the top of her laptop shut, standing up from the couch, she stomped to her room, slamming the door. * * * Heroki was right. She fell face-first on her bed, burying her head in her pillows, tears streaming down her face from the frustration and disappointment of the situation. Thoughts rushed through her mind. Could she challenge her grade? Deep down, she knew that there was no way to win in this case. She flipped over, looking at her many books the lined her bookcase, some of her most treasured possessions. Ayuka loved science fiction and fantasy and had the complete collection of Tolkien¡¯s and Asimov¡¯s works, and various others such as 1984, Dune, and 2001: A Space Odyssey completed her collection. Besides her extensive science fiction and fantasy collection, she had several manuals for tabletop RPGs. D&D was a phase in high school. She loved playing Dungeons and Dragons, but it became too time-consuming. When she was growing up, her parents got her into Sword World RPG as it became big in Japan and they wanted to play like their relatives. Those nights that she would play with her parents were fun, and because of that, she fell in love with role play games. Ayuka appreciated the different player classes of both Dungeons and Dragons and Sword World RPG. She was interested in the various magic systems and enjoyed playing in those worlds. That is how she got involved with MMO games. Her eyes locked on the glossy posters that decorated her walls by her desk. Anime characters hung by her TV, pictures of her and her friends at various cons lined her desk by her computer. These were the things thatshe treasured. The very elements that allowed her to be whoever she wanted to be and escape reality. With her MMO games, Ayuka usually logged in at least once a day if not more. She first started withRuneScape, World of Warcraft, and Final Fantasy XIV. It was Final Fantasy XIV where she encountered the ninja class and fell in love with the rogue who branched off into the art of ninjitsu. Yearning for more of the ninja class, Stellar Arts Inc released a new MMO based on shinobi clans in feudal Japan, but this one had an unusual angle. The game was called Kunoichi Online: Blade Wars. the player characters could choose any class in the game, but the game centered on a clan of kunoichi¡¯s, or female ninjas. MMOs were the reason Ayuka wanted to major in computer science. Being a game designer and creating worlds, player characters, and a story arc that people would enjoy was her life¡¯s mission and devotion. As Ayuka thought about her love of MMOs and living in different worlds, her cheeks flushed with fiery rage and guilt once again. Her dreams shattered by her inability to earn a math credit from a silly college. Ayuka could code but could not do calculus. The irony that she had made it this far, although she had duped her way through school. She had come so far, and all of it was being taken away. She vowed that she would not let this stop her. What was a college degree, anyway? Ayuka reasoned that she had passed all of her programming classes, and the factthat she could not do calculus had nothing to do with programming. The calculus class was an asinine requirement that had little to do with her degree and future job position. Realizing this helped her put things in perspective, and Ayuka wanted nothing more than to unwind from the day. She could solve her existential crisis tomorrow, she craved nothing more than to log on to Kunoichi Online and escape this world for a while. Not wanting to sulk in our own self-pity and misery anymore, Ayuka took the controller from her nightstand and turned on the TV and console. This is exactly where she wanted to be, in Nara. Chapter 2 A sharp knock-knock-knock on the door woke Ayuka from her drifting off into Ukiyo Komorebi, the world that Kunoichi Online took place in, completely. ¡°Yeah, come in,¡± she announced, pushing herself upright so she was sitting on the edge of the mattress, game controller still in hand, her legs now trailing over the edge, her bare feet dancing along the pile of the blue carpet. Keiko poked her head in. ¡°We came to check on you,¡± she said. ¡°Do you have a minute?¡± ¡°Oh, sure,¡± Ayuka said, pushing pause on her controller. Both Heroki and Keiko came through the door. Heroki started, ¡°Just wanted to stop in and make sure you were all right.¡± Heroki hesitated for a moment. ¡°I think I came across as a little harsh,¡± she relented. Ayuka grimaced after hearing that Heroki was taking back what she said. ¡°Heroki, I know you were being harsh for my own good. I needed a reality check, and you were a good enough friend to give me one.¡± Keiko gave Heroki a side-eye ignoring Ayuka¡¯s remark of being a good friend and said, ¡°We agreed we are here to support you no matter what the case is. Both of us will be staying in San Francisco, and if you need a place to stay while you finish up your calculus class, then you can stay with either one of us, rent-free.¡± Ayuka was taken aback by the offer. She searched for the right words to say, realizing whatever she did say would not fully describe her gratitude toward her two roommates. ¡°Wow! That is so generous,¡± she mustered. ¡°I am deeply touched.¡± Keiko observed the game controller in Ayuka¡¯s hand, ¡°Looks like you¡¯re back to your vice,¡± she concluded. Ayuka looked down between her hands, ¡°Right. Was playing Kunoichi Online.¡± ¡°That¡¯s the one with the girl ninjas?¡± Heroki asked. ¡°Yeah, you can be a boy ninja or samurai if you want, but then you will be fighting the kunoichi clan, the Kanga Clan.¡± ¡°What is the appeal of female ninjas?¡± Keiko asked. ¡°It¡¯s more than just females being ninjas. Kunoichi¡¯s are the perfect balance between charm, seduction, and being trained as the perfect killer and spy,¡± explained Ayuka. ¡°Most of them masquerade as nonthreatening laborers, such as maids or servants, but that is how they get their access. They are masters of the art of allurement, which allows them to act as a spy, an observer, or a messenger. They are master manipulators. To be a member of the Kanga Clan, which is the clan of only kunoichi¡¯s, they are chosen. Usually sought after for a unique ability they have. Then they are initiated into the clan after performing a series of tests and challenges to cement their loyalty.¡± ¡°Seems appealing,¡± responded Keiko. ¡°I can see why you are into such a game.¡± ¡°Ever since this game came out, I¡¯ve been enthralled in it.¡± ¡°Maybe that¡¯s why you failed calculus?¡± Heroki interjected. ¡°You know I was studying around the clock,¡± Ayuka shot back. Not able to keep her enthusiasm down for long about her favorite game, she explained, ¡°Kunoichi Online is like a sisterhood if you choose the female ninja class, then you have a shot in being in the Kanga Clan. To begin the game, a player first selects a different clan that they are a member of. If they have the calling to destroy the enenra, then their first mission is to join the Kanga Clan. These women will do anything for each other.¡± ¡°What if you choose a male class?¡± Keiko asked. ¡°The male classes are fun too. You can choose a samurai, which is basically a tank. Another option is a sohei, which is basically the same as a cleric if we were playing D&D. Ikko-Ikki are similar to sohei because they are religious warriors as well, but they¡¯re different. They seem to be more egalitarian than the sohei, so they would be similar to a paladin if we were playing D&D. They often encourage peasant revolts and uprisings, so they have an ax to grind. You remember some of the D&D stuff we used to do in high school after bible study, right?¡± Keiko and Heroki both nodded their heads, their eyes wide open from the sheer amount of information that Ayuka blasted them with. Ayuka continued, ¡°Oh, a Ronin. That would be a disgraced samurai, one who lost their place in the hierarchy or their lord died, leaving him without a master. These would be a fighter in D&D. The ninja, that one is easy to explain, the ninja is simply a rogue. Sometimes known as Roof-Monkeys, Shinobi, or The Masked Ones. They are the main ones that participate in the War of Darkness.¡± ¡°War of Darkness?¡± Keiko asked. ¡°Right, War of Darkness. The dark shadow that looms over the peaceful facade of Nara. It¡¯s the world of violence, conspiracy, sorcery, and illusion. All of these conflicts rage constantly, known, and cleverly hidden under the noses of the dwellers of Nara.¡± ¡°All right, continue,¡± requested Heroki. ¡°Ashigaru are like European knights or foot soldiers that support the samurai. Tsukai-ban are messengers. They get information from different units. Those are all the melee classes.They each have their own weaponry.¡± Keiko and Heroki nodded once again. ¡°I had no idea this was so involved,¡± said Heroki. ¡°Then there are kitsune.¡± ¡°Oh, a fox witch,¡± replied Keiko. ¡°Right. Similar to druids in D&D. They use natural forces for their ritualistic magic.¡± Not having any self-awareness, Ayuka kept with the onslaught of information. ¡°Now these classes, they belong to different clans. The government of Ukiyo Komorebi¡ª¡± ¡°Ukiyo Komorebi?¡± Keiko asked. ¡°Right, Ukiyo Komorebi is the world that this whole game takes place in. Mostly in the capital city called Nara. Ukiyo Komorebi is similar to ancient Japan, but with mysticism. Anyway, the different ninja clans are involved in a Cold War. Normal villagers and city folk are not aware of the ninja clans nor the war at hand.¡± ¡°Intriguing,¡± said Heroki. ¡°Thousands of years ago, a number of rival warlords emerged, and the ninjas slit up into separate clans, Ukiyo Komorebi forming its own ninja clan, which are unknown to the people of Nara. That is because the ninjas have a cover, an occupation that the do to hide the fact that they are a ninja. They might be a Geisha, doctor, scientist, waitress, something common.¡± ¡°Interesting,¡± said Keiko. ¡°Go on.¡± Ayuka continued on, ¡°So the government of Ukiyo Komorebi, run the samurai under the Crown Prince¡¯s rule. They also have a secret ninja clan called the Himitsu Agency and they are responsible for protecting Ukiyo Komorebi¡¯s interests.¡± ¡°Fascinating,¡± added Keiko. ¡°Then there are the Kagaku Clan. They are a clan on scientists, engineers, and technologists. They are known amongst the other ninja clans as having sophisticated advancements. They have special hidden weapons, are able to tie complex knot tying and rope work,¡± explained Ayuka. ¡°What are some of the other clans?¡± Keiko asked. ¡°Let me show you the interface of the game. It explains it more thoroughly than I could,¡± suggested Ayuka. Ayuka went to the information interface in the paused Kunoichi Online video game by using her controller. She clicked several buttons and soon a scroll appeared on the screen. Ayuka scrolled through the information while Keiko and Heroki read the screen. The screen read: Clans of Ukiyo Komerebi Kagaku Clan Asset: Technological advancements Description: A clan comprised of scientists, engineers, technologists. Mission: Want to obtain the advancements from all of the clans. Rival Clan: Himitsu Agency Himitsu Agency Asset: Manipulation, secrecy, scheming, conniving, conning Description: A government-run clan ran under the direction of the Crown Prince. Mission: Protect the interests of Ukiyo Komerebi. Rival Clan: Clan of the Black Harvest Senshi Clan Asset: Combat abilities in the martial arts Description: A clan comprised of guards, spies, warriors, and soldiers who have excelled in military combat. Many of them are part of the Ikko-Ikki and sohei classes. Mission: Want to obtain the advancements from all of the clans. Rival Clan: Kagaku Clan Er¨©to Preparatory Academy Asset: Strategy and wisdom Description: This elite academy brainwashes their students into believing that they are the best trained in the land, which they very well might be. Mission: To learn the secrets of the other clans to advance their skill sets. Rival Clan: Senshi Clan Band of Tsuih¨­ Asset: Covertness Description: Not a clan, but a band of individuals. Many are Ronin or ninjas who left their clans. They endeavor to stay out of the business of others, concealing themselves in society. Mission: They fight for their own reasons. Rival Clan: Er¨©to Preparatory Academy Clan of the Black Harvest Asset: Dark Arts Description: This clan specializes in mysticism, blood magic, and sorcery. They are responsible for the return of Amun-Ra the exiled enenra.You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version. Mission: Facilitate the return of Rival Clan: Himitsu Agency Kanga Clan Asset: Allurement, seduction, manipulation, and advanced combat Description: A secret clan comprised of only kunoichi¡¯s. They are recruited to join this clan from other clans. Mission: Stop the return of Amun-Ra. Rival Clan: Clan of the Black Harvest Other Factions Various other factions have ties to the ninjas: -Mobsters -Law Enforcement -Politicians -Renunciates After the pair finished reading, Keiko asked, ¡°So the Kanga Clan is a secret?¡± ¡°It is. None of the other clans know that it exists, or if they have an idea that there is a seventh clan, they don¡¯t know for sure,¡± explained Ayuka. She added, ¡°Many of the classes I mentioned before are members of these various clans. Some of the soldiers are not part of a clan, but of a known military entity like the samurai are members of the Crown Prince¡¯s army.¡± ¡°So the whole point of the game is to stop the return of Amun-Ra?¡± Heroki asked. ¡°Right. But in the underbelly of the ninja clans, there is a lot of fighting. A clan will prevent a member of the Kanga Clan from fulfilling her mission, but not because they want the return of Amun-Ra, it could be another reason. So it can get complicated. They may think the Kanga Clan member is trying to steal something, and they will prohibit it by battling them. The Kanga¡¯s never give up their identity, so the rival clan member might think they¡¯re from one of the known clans. Within this game, members of rival clans form emotional connections and bonds with other clan members. Sometimes they work together, sometimes they kill each other. It all depends. Some rival clan members may not know the other is in a rival clan. They might realize it down the road, and then they are confronted with a difficult decision. Loyalty to the clan or loyalty to their friend.This complicates things further because the members of the clans can get more information by building relationships, but the person they friended may not be fully trustworthy.¡± ¡°Wow! Seems like it can get very complex very fast,¡± affirmed Keiko. ¡°I can see why you like this game so much.¡± Ayuka wanted to keep telling her friends about the different missions that she had been on, the spies she uncovered, or the mix-martial artist she defeated, butshe knew that Keiko and Heroki would never play with her, so why would she waste her breath. All she could think about was joining Hikari, her player character, on her next mission. Ayuka caught herself getting swept up in the world of Kunoichi Online. She stopped herself when she said, ¡°As you can see, I can talk for days about this game. It really has a hold on me. There are other obscure magic users in the game as well as NPCs that add to the world.¡± Both Keiko and Heroki looked overwhelmed by the amount of information they received. ¡°Right,¡± Keiko said, her eyes glossed over from Ayuka¡¯s explanations. ¡°Seems like a really cool game.¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± added Heroki. ¡°We just wanted to let you know about our offer for you to stay with either one of us while you make up your calculus class next fall.¡± ¡°That was so generous. I would never impose on either of you. This is my problem and I will find a way out of it.¡± Ayuka seemed resolved to strike out on her own, and perhaps not even finishing up her degree. She wanted to see how far she could get in the workforce without one. ¡°Well, we¡¯ll let you get back to your game,¡± Keiko said. Both her and Heroki made their way to the door, shutting it behind them. Ayuka was grateful to have two friends as caring as they were. However, deep down, she knew why they made the offer to her. They felt sorry for her. They were the haves. The ones from good families that had money, educated parents, and social standing in San Francisco. Ayuka was the have not. Their charity case. * * * Ayuka unpaused her game and yearned for the escape of her reality. In Kunoichi Online, Ayuka became Hikari, a skilled warrior, spy, and assassin. She wore claw-like finger extensions known as neko-te over her fingernails. Often times, this neko-te would be dipped in venom before they were used to stab a target¡¯s neck. She also wielded a tessen, a metal bladed folding fan. Poisons were a special craft of the kunoichi. Carrying around vials of odorless and tasteless poisons became an art form as they were formulated by the kunoichi¡¯s themselves. These poisons would be added to target¡¯s drinks, and had a fast reaction time, killing the target in minutes. Hikari was a member of the Kanga Clan, which consisted of only kunoichi¡¯s. Ayuka had a hard time joining the Kanga Clan as she had to endure days of challenges and trials. However, finally, she was given an invitation to become a pledged member of the Kanga Clan, which was one of the happiest days for Ayuka. Kunoichi Online was set in a world similar to feudal Japan but had magic systems, mainly coming from the Clan of the Black Harvest, but there were other magic users in the world as well. The Clan of the Black Harvest used magic from the dark arts, mainly conjuring and necromancy. Ayuka enjoyed her escape to Ukiyo Komorebi, which meant a floating world with sunbeams through the leaves. That summed up the world perfectly. On the facade of the world, it seemed like it was perfect. Cherry blossoms decorated the walkways of the capital city in Ukiyo Komorebi, called Nara. Nara was where the Crown Prince, Akihito ruled. Castles lined the main square where other nobility reined under Akihito, with the central tower in the center. The square in front of the castles was surrounded by gardens and fortified buildings. They were set within massive stone walls and surrounded by deep moats. Verandas linked the castles together with highly cultivated gardens. Religious temples sat on the opposite end of the square. Priests and monks resided in the temples, worshiping the gods of the universe with statues erected in the god¡¯s likeness lined the entryway of the temples. Nara backed up to a mountain range where clouds of pink and purple accumulated and descended onto the city each afternoon. The gardens were intricately manicured that no one branch or twig was ever out of place. This was under Akihito¡¯s direction. As far as Ayuka was concerned, Ukiyo Komorebi was the perfect place. It had the beauty of a museum quality painting, but underneath the physical appearance laid a complex underbelly of corruption, power, and deceit. * * * Ayuka found herself lost in the world that Kunoichi Online allowed her to escape. She far more appreciated this world than the one that she lived in. She only had played for a few weeks since the game was relatively new, purchasing it on release day. Despite that, she had logged several hundred hours and had advanced her player character, Hikari quite far. Nailing several of the melee techniques and mastering at least a dozen weapons, Hikari was one of Ayuka¡¯s proudest accomplishments. Hikari was Ayuka¡¯s alter-ego. She was cunning, ruthless, smart, and capable of just about anything. She never let her emotions get the best of her and had precision like a surgeon. She was everything Ayuka aspired to be. She could feel her eyes getting heavy as it became harder and harder for her to fight to keep them open. Ayuka was lying flat on her bed, her head propped up by a single pillow. With the emotion and panic of the day, she was simply worn out. She felt herself give in to the urge to just let go. After a few moments, Ayuka¡¯s body fully relaxed and her mind drifted off into the dark abyss of the subconscious. * * * With a surge, Ayuka awoke on an icy cement floor. Weird, she didn¡¯t recall falling asleep on the floor, and on cement no doubt. Her bedroom had a rug. She raised her head to take in her surroundings but was blinded instantly from the stark white light that penetrated from above. She did her best to make out anything. Even though she could lift her head, the rest of her body felt heavy. Her arms did not move, nor her ankles. Clouds of vapor swirled around her while she peeked her eyes to discover where she was. Weird. Nothing looked familiar. The fog clouds that enveloped her reminded her of the dances she used to attend in middle school when the DJ would play an R&B hit and start the fog machine. It was novel then, as an adult those things were smelly and annoying. Her eyes finally adjusted to the profoundly penetrating white light. ¡°Who are you?¡± she said, making out an image who stood over her. The figure did not acknowledge but held out his palm with pale white lizard scales that felt like cool reptilian leather as she clasped it, capable now to move her one hand. Rising to her feet, she stared directly into the dismal void beneath the black-cloaked figure, trying to make out its face, but nevertheless incapable to see anything but a shadow that obscured the identity of a substantial-stature resemblance of a man who stood before her. ¡°Where am I?¡± Ayuka asked, expecting an answer because this all just seemed to be strange. She racked her brain for the last thing she could remember. Right, she was playing Kunoichi Online when she floated off to sleep. She rarely fell asleep while playing her favorite game, however, that day had been particularly stressful. She momentarily took her eyes off of the dark and mysterious figure and looked around. Clouds of mist swirled around on the floor, now appearing to behave like the sublimation of dry ice. The cold carbon dioxide gas denser that the atmosphere, sinking down to the floor like something she would see at a Halloween party. Other than the fog, nothing but whiteness filled her vision. She shifted her attention back to the figure. ¡°What do you want?¡± Ayuka asked. ¡°What do you want?¡± asked the figure, finally speaking in a strong, male voice. The shadow cast from the figure¡¯s hood did not allow Ayuka to make out if it, in fact, had a mouth and jaws that it moved or did his voice just emirate from his being? ¡°What do you mean, what do I want?¡± Ayuka asked. She hesitated, pondering how none of this made any sense. ¡°Wait!¡± she interjected. ¡°Is this some sort of alien abduction? Are you going to run experiments on me and then return me to my bed?¡± Laughter came from the figure. ¡°You do have a sense of humor. I like that,¡± the figure said, still chuckling. ¡°Aliens! Good one!¡± ¡°Then what do you want? I¡¯m hoping I¡¯m going to survive this?¡± Ayuka pleaded, thinking back to all she still wanted to do with her life. How she wanted to get a job, design games, help take care of her parents, eventually, get married and have a family. This was putting her mild setback of failing calculus in perspective. That was no longer even a concern of hers at the moment. ¡°Well, that depends,¡± responded the figure. Both of them stood facing each other, Ayuka still trying to make out what was under the hood of this mysterious man. ¡°On?¡± ¡°Let¡¯s take a step back here. I noticed that you play a lot of this one game, what was it again,¡± the figure started. ¡°Kunoichi Online?¡± Ayuka asked. ¡°Yes, yes, that¡¯s right. That one.¡± ¡°Right. And?¡± ¡°Well, it turns out I am the maker of that game.¡± ¡°You own Stellar Arts?¡± Ayuka asked, hoping that he would offer her a job. Not sure how she fathomed a kidnapping would turn in a job offer, but she hoped that maybe this was her big break. ¡°Well, yes, in away. I created Stellar Arts as a training bed for the most accomplished gamers. Those who mastered the skills and gameplay and stand out from the rest, well I recruit them.¡± ¡°Recruit them? Like for a beta tester?¡± ¡°Beta tester? Not familiar.¡± ¡°You own a video game company and you don¡¯t know what a beta tester is?¡± Ayuka asked, confused. ¡°Then recruitment for what?¡± ¡°That¡¯s beside the point. I use the games designed from Stellar Arts to recruit the players to take part in a different type of game.¡± ¡°Uh?¡± confused even further, Ayuka continued, ¡°what type of game?¡± ¡°It¡¯s more realistic.¡± ¡°Like real life?¡± ¡°Right, like real life.¡± ¡°Then how is it a game?¡± ¡°Well, that¡¯s just semantics. I suppose it¡¯s really not a game then.¡± ¡°Then what is it?¡± ¡°Um, well. It¡¯s real life, but not a game. It¡¯s just I base the world on one of the games you¡¯ve played from Stellar Arts.¡± ¡°So Ukiyo Komorebi really exists?¡± Ayuka asked excitement in her voice was palpable. ¡°It does. Actually, it is one of my favorite worlds that I have created.¡± ¡°You created Ukiyo Komorebi?¡± ¡°I did. But there¡¯s a problem.¡± ¡°Oh?¡± ¡°At the rate, it¡¯s going, the world will no longer exist.¡± ¡°Who¡¯s that?¡± ¡°It is being overrun by an enenra. You know what that is, right?¡± ¡°Enenras are smoke, darkness, and pure evil and deception.¡± ¡°Right. Well, this enenra used to be a human at some point, I won¡¯t get into that, but he transformed into an enenra named Amun-Ra. Amun-Ra was a deranged demonic maniac who held a lot of power at one time in Ukiyo Komorebi. He transformed into an enenra who will take over Ukiyo Komorebi if they do not stop him.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t remember this part in Kunoichi Online,¡± replied Ayuka. ¡°It¡¯s coming in the next update,¡± replied the figure. The figure continued, ¡°Now, Amun-Ra can take human shape and can only be seen by a pure heart. I believe that you have the right heart and skillset to defeat Amun-Ra.¡± ¡°I do?¡± ¡°If you¡¯re not, then you are definitely my best shot.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll take that,¡± said Ayuka. ¡°So now, I have a proposition.¡± ¡°Okay?¡± ¡°Will you enter the world of Ukiyo Komorebi and take on Amun-Ra and save the world from the deadly enenra?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know about that.¡± ¡°Let me put it another way. Would you enter the world and game that you love as a kunoichi, defeat Amun-Ra and restore the world back to balance? Or would you rather return to your lame life in San Francisco where you are between a rock and a hard place as you try to get your footing in Silicon Valley?¡± ¡°How do you know all of this?¡± ¡°I¡¯ve done my homework. Ayuka, you are one of the best gamers I have encountered in Kunoichi Online. I can tell that you are passionate about this world and love the concept. I¡¯m asking you to live in the game you love in real life.¡± ¡°And what if I don¡¯t succeed?¡± ¡°Let¡¯s not think like that,¡± replied the figure. ¡°No, I need to know if I don¡¯t succeed.¡± ¡°Well, then you die along with everyone else in that world because Amun-Ra has become so powerful that I cannot even control him anymore.¡± ¡°But you created Ukiyo Komorebi. How is that possible that you cannot even control your own creation? Let alone think I can?¡± ¡°I could destroy the entire world and destroy him at the same time, that I am perfectly capable of doing. However, there would be thousands of innocent souls lost. That would not be fair to them. Instead, I created Stellar Arts and to solve the issue with recruiting those who I deem worthy of saving an entire world from the depths of evil and destruction.¡± ¡°And you chose me?¡± ¡°Yes, Ayuka. I chose you.¡± The figure paused for a moment before asking, ¡°Will you help me?¡± ¡°On one condition.¡± ¡°Name it.¡± ¡°That I transform into Hikari, my avatar in the game.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t have an issue with that. You already put in the work to gain those skills, Consider it done.¡± ¡°All right. You have a deal.¡± Ayuka stuck out her hand and the pale white lizard skin met it as they clasped and shook. ¡°One other thing. Hikari is not a member of the Kanga clan yet. You must earn a place in their clan first,¡± explained the figure as his cold lizard skin pressed against Ayuka¡¯s. ¡°The Kanga¡¯s are a tough bunch. They would never allow me to just place you in there without earning a place. They have standards.¡± Ayuka heard what the figure said as her vision became blurry, She felt like she was drifting off once again, the whiteness fading to black as she saw nothing in front of her. Chapter 3 ¡°Goodness, my head is pounding,¡± she muttered to herself, lifting her head and shoulders off of the ground. Leaning to the side, she glimpsed her legs. They were thin and muscular, a sharp contrast to her pudgy ankles she had grown to love over the years. Her thin muscular ankles shown beneath her wide-legged blue pants. Taking in her full uniform, she realized that they dressed herin civilian clothes, wearing a vertical striped poncho. While she raised her head, she felt the chest plate underneath cut into her torso. She moved her feet by rotating her ankle and instantly felt the muscular power she held within her thin and compact structure. The air smelled of salt as a cool breeze brushed across her cheeks. There, she saw the most picturesque site she had ever seen. The purple and crimson fog rolled from the mountain tops and descended on the main castle tower. ¡°Wow!¡± she muttered in amazement. She took a moment to gather where she was. It seemed the figured dropped heramid grassy knolls that were located outside the gates of Nara. The faint smell of sea salt and ocean spray filled her nostrils as she climbed to her feet. Standing lower than she was used to when she was Ayuka, she realized that she was no longer her. Ayuka had a large stature, standing around a five-foot, eight inches. No, she gathered she was only around a five-foot, maybe two inches. While she examined her hands, noticing the thin and muscular build that they had, encased in black gloves, she realized that she was no longer Ayuka, but now she was Hikari, the character she developed in Kunoichi Online: Blade Wars. For a moment, Ayuka missed her large physique, realizing that being taller than most females had its advantages. Her view from her smaller frame did not allow her to see as far over the horizon than she was normally used to. She found that if she looked to the far right of her vision, she could see her player character¡¯s character sheet. Then she realized that this was not her player character, but instead,it was her. It read: Character Stats: Hikari Himukai Age: 19 Sex: Female Faction: Er¨©to Preparatory Academy Cover: College Student Conviction: Loyalty Rank: Chunin - Level 4 Skills: Analysis, Tactics, Encryption, Poison, Blade, Multiplicity, Rumor Mongering, Interrogation Diversion, Hypnosis, Shaming, Slight of Hand, Contortionist, Speed, Aerial Arts, Acrobatics , Hand to Hand, Blade Ninpo: Assassin (Blade), Shadow Clone (Multiplicity), Cross Cut (Blade) Interesting. Hikari was a member of the Er¨©to Preparatory Academy. The notion that she would head there for her training was enough to make her gag. Nearly vomiting in her mouth, she curled the urge, and snapped back at the task at hand, joining the Kanga Clan. Looking over the character sheet further, Hikari assessed that this was close to the skills thatshe had earned in the game. Hikari was an expert at using a blade, mixing and concealing poisons, and the use of pyromancy. Hikari was reluctant to begin again in the Er¨©to Preparatory Academy, when she had earned herself a spot in the Kanga Clan, in Kunoichi Online, but that was the deal she made, and she would adjust accordingly. Hikari remembered the six attributes and the eleven skills under each attribute. She could view them on a separate screen in her vision if she looked further to the right, past her character sheet. Kunoichi Online Attribute and Skills Advancements -Acupuncture -Pyromancy -Torture -Advanced Armor -Rope Work -Hydromancy -Hidden Weapons -Medicine -Demolition -Farming -Engineering Manipulation -Poison -Seduction -Trapping -Intimidation -Deception -Performance -Rumor Mongering -Interrogation -Diversion -Hypnosis -Shaming Tactical Combat -Slight of Hand -Footwork -Contortionist -Speed -Endurance -Aerial Arts -Acrobatics -Hand to Hand -Blade -Strength -Athleticism Covertness -Escape -Evasion -Interception -Ventriloquism -Invisibility -Disguise -Multiplicity -Concealment -Craftiness -Fraudulence -Burglary Methodology -Husbandry -Analysis -Memory -Contacts -Encryption -Signal -Insight -Tactics -Perception -Nature -History Dark Arts -Necromancy -Illusion -Domination -Summoning -Conjuring -Transmutation -Transformation -Clairvoyance -Curse -Channeling -Possession The skills she had in the Methodology attribute seemed like what she remembered. Obviously with Hikari being downgraded to a different clan than the Kanga Clan she lost some advancements she had made in Kunoichi Online. Since Er¨©to Preparatory Academy specialized in Methodology, three of her skills came from that attribute. They were Analysis, Tactics, and Encryption. Hikari thought back to when she was Ayuka, choosing the skills. In Kunoichi Online, a player character chooses three skills from their clan attribute and three skills of their choosing. Since Ayuka¡¯s goal was to become a member of the Kanga Clan, she planned her skills to align with that clan¡¯s focus. Ayuka had chosen Multiplicity, Poison, and Blade for her additional skills. The Kanga Clan specializes in the Manipulation attribute. When Hikari would be recruited to the Kanga Clan, she would then exchange her Methodology skills for Manipulation skills. The six skills, three from the clan¡¯s focused attribute and three of the player¡¯s choosing were known as the Assigned Skills in Kunoichi Online. These skills activated the Ninpo with a successful skill check. Hikari remembered that she was limited herto one Ninpo action per round when engaged in combat. As Hikari would advance and level up, there were Advanced Ninpo that she could gain. It disheartened Hikarithat she had lost several of the Advanced Ninpo that she had earned when Ayuka was playing her. However, she resolved to gain those skills back and become a member of the Kanga Clan. Then Hikari looked to the far left of her vision. That is where she found her Stats. Abilities Hikari Himukai Strength: 12 (+1) Agility: 12 (+1) Intelligence: 0 (-5) Stamina: 24 (+7) Luck:12 (+1) Attack: 24 (+7) Accuracy: 0 (-5) Defense: 9 (-1) Evasion: 18 (+4) Then Hikari remembered how these mechanics, abilities, fed into the Attributes and ultimately the Skills followed by the Ninpo. It comprises each of the Attributesof two Stats. Looking at her abilities, she grew concerned over her Accuracy Ability. Judging by that low score, it worried herthatshe could nothit the broad side of a barn. However, the remaining stats appeared to be solid. She well knewthat she could get around that Intelligence Ability score and the Defense Ability could be managed. This revelation was not an entire let down. To get into the Kanga Clan, she knew that she would need to increase all thescores. That would come naturally as she leveled up. The modifiers looked good to her, except the accuracy, which still worried her. Hikari knew that they calculated the modifiersfrom the total score possible, which was 30. Each score increase would increase the modifier. Essentially, the rule of thumb for calculating a modifier was to divide the Attribute Score by 2, subtract 10 and then round to the nearest integer. Hikari looked forward to joining the Kanga Clan because they excelled in just about every Attribute and Ability. Remembering from her gameplay, the Kangas had members who specialized in potions, poisons, technological advancements, martial arts, strategy, and of coursethe art of persuasion. Some were even sorceresses, who practiced some Dark Arts. They taught each other what they knew since they abandoned their initial clan. The Kangas specialized in all theAttributes, unlike the other clans. Therefore, once Hikari would be initiated into the clan, the Advancement Attribute would naturally increase as she would be granted access to the advancements of the clan. Attributes Based on the Ability Score Average Attributes are determined by the average of the ability scores. Advancements: Accuracy + Intelligence Manipulation: Luck + Evasion Tactical Combat: Strength + Agility Covertness: Evasion + Defense Methodology: Stamina + Attack Dark Arts:Intelligence + Evasion Attribute Score Advancements: 0 (-5) Manipulation:15 (+2) Tactical Combat: 12 (+1) Covertness:13 (+1) Methodology: 24 (+7) Dark Arts: 9 (-1) *Scores are rounded down to the nearest integer. It was apparent that since her Attributes and Abilities were skewed toward Methodology (Attack and Stamina) that was also the specialty of the clan she was begrudgingly a member of, the Er¨©to Preparatory Academy. The World of Shadows knew themfor their abilities to win missions and battles based on their ingenuity. They possessed strong analytical minds and demonstrated excellence in command on the battlefield. Too bad her Intelligence Ability did not follow this. Perhaps she would gain experience in that Ability by learning from others.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it. Hikari looked further to the left and found more information regarding her level and health. Hikari Himukai Class: Ninja Level:Level 4 -Chunin Honor Beads to Next Level:10 Health: 6 LP Armor Class: 5* Magic: 18 MP** Alignment: Chaotic Neutral Ninpo per Round: 1 *[Level (4) multiplied by Defense (9)]/8 rounded up to the nearest integer. **Intelligence + Evasion Looking even further to the left, Hikari could gather even more information about herself. ¡°Level Chunin!¡± she muttered in astonishment under her breath. No good deity made a rotten deal. What she was starting with was embarrassing. That deity lied to her to get her to take the deal, and now she was left at Level Chunin, with hardly any armor. Forget about performing any magic or spells with that low of Magic Points, but based on the Evasion Ability Score, which yielded her a respectable amount of MP (Magic Points), it appeared thatHikari would eventually have the ability to perform some sorcery. The Life Points were decent and seemed to beon the parfor the level she was at. The Amor Class was low, but that was because of her low level. She remembered that Ayuka had left off with Hikari at Level Jonin-Gashira, in the Kanga Clan, one of her biggest accomplishments. That was the level under Kage, the leader of the clan. Hikari felt taken advantage of, however, she knew how to level herself up quickly and knew how to get the Kanga Clan to recruit her. This was a mild setback from what she was expecting. Hikari was grateful that she was in her favorite game playing as her favorite character. For a briefmoment, she thought back to her old life as Ayuka and wondered how she could go back. Failing a math class that she didn¡¯t need, to get a degree she didn¡¯t need, to get a job she didn¡¯t want. She wanted to design video games, but she would probably get a job with Google, coding apps. She only wanted the job with Google to make her parents proud. Her real passion was gaming and now she was living fully immersed in her passion. Inventory Equipped: Pouch 2 Gold Coins 4 Shuriken Civilian Clothing: Travel Cape with Hood and Pants Armor: Karuta Chest Plate Not Equipped: Black Shinobi Ninjutsu Stealth Uniform Black Tabi Boots Black Tabi Socks Arm Gauntlets Hood with Mask Ninjat¨­ She yearned for the red robe she had gained when she was initiated into the Kanga Clan. She had her first mission. Seeing that she would wear a black stealth uniform made it troublesome for Hikari, her existence became wrapped up in being a member of the Kanga Clan. She vowed to get out of the Er¨©to Preparatory Academy as soon as possible and get recruited into the Kanga Clan. However, with her low status, low abilities, and minor attributes, she was would be benched in any junior varsity squad of any ninja clan, let alone the be recruited by the elite Kanga Clan. Hikari realized that she would require to level up and do so quickly. Materializing in the verdant knolls located outside the gates of Nara, Hikari found herself alone. That was done deliberately since this had to look awkwardat best. * * * Before Hikari could realize what was going on, she noticed three gusts above her skull. She recognized what those were. Shuriken. Throwing stars, but from where? Scared to lift her head any further, attempting to make herself a broader target than she already was, but she would have to move quickly. Armed with her breastplate and four Shuriken, she had no option but to confront whatever threw the stars at her. Spring up, using a nip-up by placing her palms flat on the ground on either side of her head and lifting her legs and spine into the supine position, she propelled her body from being flat on her back to now on her feet. * * * Surveying the lush hills from where she transpired, she saw nobody but the mist clouds rolling down from the mountain. Strange. Hikari well recognizedthat she felt the bursts of airflow above her head, narrowly missing the bridge of her nose, the sound of spinning shuriken was indisputable. Instinctively, she reached for her Ninjat¨­, which would normally be strapped to her back, hidden beneath her civilian clothes. Right. It was not equipped. Internally, Hikari panicked. What to do? Then, through the fog, she witnessed three black-masked figures appear from the hazy cloud a hundred yards from where she stood in her fighting stance. Hikari reached into her pouch and took out one of the shuriken. Hikari relied on her hours of practice as she felt the cool steel in her hand. Knowing that she only had four on hand, that throwing multiple shurikens at moving targets was the most effective technique for this situation. In a rapid series, Hikari threw her first shuriken followed by the next at the approaching figure that led the charge, missing him. She took a deep breath when she saw the second one pierce the throat of the figure cloaked in black; the blood spraying in two directions as the shuriken pierced the flesh of the attacker. Grabbing the other two shurikens in each of her hands, Hikari would use the last two as a fist load weapon for close-in fighting that would soon ensue. Hikari took a deep breath and braced herself for the attack. Hikari swiped her fist across the attacker was within striking distance of her with the arms of the star protruding from her knuckles. Relieved she made solid contact, the rush in her body eased. Expecting a strike from the assailant, Hikari avoided the hand of the initial black-cloaked creature by inches as he encroached on her. Within an instant, Hikari¡¯s vision went black, and she fell to the ground, landing on the side of her head. The error in her preparation cost her seventy LP, she watched the update come across her vision. The attack went so fast that she did not know what happened to her. Her eyes squinted open, and she witnessed a civilian-cloaked ninjitsu practitioner with a long staff weapon battling the two remaining ninja attackers. While her head settled on the ground, her temple buried between the grass blades, she looked at a symbol on the sleeves of one assailant. The Kagaku Clan. Why would they bother with an attack on her? Meanwhile, she watched the frail, old, ninjitsu practitioner wield the long staff, striking one in the head, and with the other end, striking the other in the back. The practitioner then returned the staff to the first assailant, hitting him dead in the rib cage and whacking him over, the assailant¡¯s body falling over the long staff. The master then speared the head of the selling assailant, the staff impeded into the ninja¡¯s eye socket. The master pulled the staff from the shinobi¡¯s skull; the master had one last assailant to beat. The two squared off, and the master took a deep sigh before unleashing anonslaught of offensive attacks. Striking with one sector of the long staff then the other, the assailant blocked each attack, keeping in step with the practitioner. Finally, the practitioner performedtwo wrist rolls with the staff with both hands before he then did two helicopter spins overhead before striking the remaining ninja. First, with the front side of the staff in the chest and with the backside of the staff, hitting the back of the assailant¡¯s skull. The practitioner knocked the ninja out cold from the head strike, then he speared the final assailant¡¯s brain with the tip of the staff. He then trod on his head to pull out the embedded staff. Hikari came to complete consciousness while caught the bearded man bludgeon the last ninja attacker the long staff to the eye socket and pulled out the staff. Who was that? She watched through her squinted eyes, regretting her decision to come to this world. This was tougher than she expected. Across her vision she watched: Ability increase: Intelligence 1 for genius use of using shuriken as a fist-loading weapon. DMG = (20 + 12) * 6/8 - (9 + 18) * 4/8 Hikari took damage LP decrease to 5 Lost Attribute: Advancement MP increase to 19 As the last ninja attacker laid on his back, lifeless, the old, beard man approached Hikari. ¡°Child, get up,¡± he commanded. Hikari took a moment to determine her physical competence and realized she could sit up. Sitting on her sit bones, she took in the mystical man. His white, long goatee braided into two strands connected at his chin, moved as he walked and spoke. He cloaked himself in a white kimono secured with a tiewith a white sash and had a bald head. His wrinkled skin had the worn look like leather, signifying his age. Hikari took a moment, not wanting to insult the man, but wanting to know why he took his time to save her. ¡°Thank you,¡± she muttered. ¡°Get up!¡± Hikari was taken aback by the man¡¯s persistence in her moving, especially when all she wanted to do was lay there. Reluctantly, she rose to her feet. ¡°We must leave, now!¡± the man said with urgency in his voice as he grabbed the hand of Hikari pulling her across the field, far from the gates of Nara. Without hesitation, Hikari followed the old warrior, running behind him. They crossed the grassy field, to the other side of the valley, opposite from the looming mountain range. Hikari looked behind her to see that more and more white clouds continued to roll down the mountainside, misty white ominous clouds continued like puffs of smoke filling the valley. When they reached a cavernous area full of carved rocks, the two slowed and came to a stop. Hikari became impressed with her physical ability to run a long way at a rapid pace. She had the training of a ninja, and it was a sharp contrast to the physical condition of Ayuka, who panted walking to class. The man led Hikari through a maze of caverns, deeper into the shallow hillside that lined the other side of the grassy valley. Hikari followed, trusting this man since he saved her. When the pair stopped at the entrance of a dark cave, the man said, ¡°I am Shinobu Nanahoshi,¡± bowing to Hikari. ¡°I am Hikari Himukai,¡± answered Hikari bowing in reciprocity. ¡°This is my home, come in.¡± Hikari followed the man into the dark cave where sconces of lit candles lined the walls. A fire was at the end of the cave where folded blankets laid next to it. Shinobu took a pillow from the corner of the cave and sat on it, maneuvering his legs into the lotus position, sitting with his legs awkwardly crossed, his palms resting on his knees. His back toward the fire and he closed his eyes. Hikari, uncertain what to do sat on the ground facing him. She crossed her legs and put her palms on her knees, following Shinobu¡¯s posture. What felt like an eternity passed, as Hikari wondered who this man was and what she was doing there. Let alone why they had to vacate the area when they had defeated the enemy. So many questions swirled around in Hikari¡¯s head, she burst at the seams. She used this time to look around. She opened the side corner of her eye and monitored the man who sat in front of her. A skilled ninjitsu practitioner, yet frail and thin. She looked to the side of him and saw incense burning by the fire. She had previously smelled something beautiful but did not know the source. The scent of burning jasmine filled her nostrils, assisting in her relaxation, despite this situation being awkward and anxiety-inducing. She also saw by the fireplace, several weapons. Staff, ropes, several styles of sickles lined the wall near the fireplace. This guy had gear. A few more moments passed by, and Shinobu opened his eyes. He said in a calm tone, ¡°I must meditate after each battle, it helps calm my body and perfect my technique,¡± he explained. ¡°I hope you did. It will keep your coordination sharp.¡± ¡°I did,¡± responded Hikari, fibbing slightly as meditation was foreign to her. ¡°You will get better at it, child.¡± Continuing, he said, ¡°You are our future, child. I must cultivate and protect you, as your contributions to Nara will one day be greater than my own. Here, let me teach you how to do meditation.¡± ¡°All right.¡± ¡°Fortunately for you, I can teach you how to access your Focus and can show you how to direct your energy to broadening your abilities,¡± explained Shinobu. Hikari did as Shinobu instructed her, pressing her eyes shut tightly and delving deeply inside herself, searching for the flowing focus that burned inside of her. Tapping into her internal power, she drew closer to the energy within. In her mind¡¯s eye, she saw shifting colors and blurred lines weaving in and out of themselves. Radiating, like the cosmos, from within her she felt a warm fire burning inside her belly. As if comets and other celestial bodies produced atomic fission inside of her, resulting in pulsating energy. The energy grew at an exponential rate that Hikari turned fearful of what it might do. She opened her eyes in a panic, frightened at the explosions she could feel within her body. ¡°That¡¯s it, child,¡± interrupted Shinobu. ¡°That¡¯s how you summon the ninja within.¡± ¡°Wow! I¡¯ve never felt such a thing.¡± Hikari astonished by the power that she felt. She licked her upper lip to find a sheen of perspiration on it. The inward heat had made her sweat. As Hikari tasted the salt on her lip, she saw the words flash across her field of sight. Being led through a guided meditation has yielded 1 increase in Intelligence.Intelligence 1 (-5). Lost LP and Attribute Restored. Guided meditation seemed to influence the Ability Scores. She did not remember this from the game. Perhaps this was one difference between life in Kunoichi Online and playing the game. ¡°I will be here to guide you as you need,¡± interjected Shinobu. ¡°But you must see me every day.¡± ¡°Every day?¡± Hikari challenged, perplexed by the requirement. ¡°Right, every day. Do not let the dawn rise before you see me. I fear that there will be nights that will go late, but you must show your dedication.¡± ¡°That seems like a difficult task. I mean this place is several miles from Nara, and I¡¯ll be at the Academy,¡± countered Hikari. ¡°Right, and you mustmake time.¡± Not wanting to look a gift horse in the mouth, but still confused Hikari stopped fighting what seemed to be presenting itself to her. ¡°Well, thank you for saving me,¡± said Hikari, once again. ¡°Now let¡¯s get to that,¡± responded Shinobu. ¡°I am called to mentor you. I am the former Kage of the Himitsu Agency, one of the critical forces trying to stop the summoning of Amun-Ra and the Clan of the Black Harvest.¡± More words came across Hikari¡¯s field of vision. Mentor gained. Being trained by Shinobu Nanahoshi will increase your abilities. Miss a day and you will suffer the consequences. Hikari did not remember this part of the game either. There were no mentors in the game, but the user interface taught her what she needed to know and how to perform combat attacks. Perhaps Shinobu took the place of that. ¡°You¡¯re a former Kage?¡± ¡°Yes. Of the Himitsu Agency.¡± ¡°So you worked for the Crown Prince?¡± ¡°Correct,¡± answered Shinobu. ¡°Given my age, it was time for me to step aside and allow new blood to lead the clan. They must teach you well at Er¨©to Preparatory Academy.¡± ¡°They are.¡± ¡°Very well. I live now as a renunciate, in my cave away from all thevillagers of Nara, the very ones that I spent my entire life protecting. I still love those who I protected from the shadows, but I have found that my mind wanted less stimulation, so I built this home in the caves here.¡± ¡°It¡¯s lovely,¡± confirmed Hikari. ¡°So now, let¡¯s get to why you¡¯re here.¡± Shinobu paused, taking in deep breaths. Then he explained, ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve heard of the kunoichis, the members of the Kanga Clan?¡± ¡°I have.¡± Hikari not sure if she should reveal that she knew the secret clan even in the World of Shadows. ¡°I thought you might have,¡± answered Shinobu to Hikari¡¯s relief. ¡°Over my time working with the government of Nara, I had run across circumstances of were strange and mystical things happened with no explanation. It was not until I married, that my dying wife told me her secret and asked me to keep it until I knew to tell it.¡± This story was getting a little deep for Hikari. ¡°Would you like to know what the secret is?¡± Shinobu asked. ¡°If you would like to tell me,¡± replied Hikari. ¡°Unbeknownst to me, my wife was a kunoichi and a member of the Kanga Clan. Even though I told her I worked for the government of Nara, she knew that I was the Kage of the Himitsu Agency from her connections in the Kanga Clan.¡± ¡°You must have been surprised by this revelation,¡± affirmed Hikari. ¡°To say the least. Now, let me explain further. Long before your time, the Crown Prince had an older brother and he would be the rightful heir to the throne of Ukiyo Komorebi and rule in Nara.¡± ¡°I wasn¡¯t aware,¡± relented Hikari. ¡°Understandable. They tend toskip this part in schools. Anyway, this older brother was found to be evil and vile. He ascended to become the leader of the Clan of the Black Harvest, essentially creating the clan himself. Reports came into the Himitsu Agency that he murdered his father one night so he would gain power.¡± ¡°Fascinating!¡± ¡°Amun-Ra, the wicked founder and leader of the Clan of the Black Harvest, was on the verge of seizing Ukiyo Komorebi and by killing the King, he would completely rule the entire land. ¡°Wow!¡± Hikari exclaimed. ¡°That night, the Himitsu Agency invaded the temple where he lived to seek justice. As I approached his quarters, I was a Chunin at the time sent on top missions such as this, I witnessed something incredible. As I came down the smoke passage of the fireplace in his quarters, spying, I saw my first exposure of the Kanga Clan. Before Amun-Ra could take control of the kingdom, the leader of the Kanga Clan, Kikyo Minamoto KangaKage banished him and turned him into an enenra, a smoke creature, trapping him in an urn. She left with the urn. Rumor has it she then hid the urn in a faraway place, not to bother Ukiyo Komorebi again.¡± ¡°Whoa!¡± Hikari exclaimed. ¡°At the time, I did not know who this woman was, the one who saved Ukiyo Komorebi from the maniacal evil of destruction Amun-Ra displayed. Not until my dear, dying wife, Mina told me I put the pieces together. You see, the Kanga Clan is solely responsible for preventing the return of Amun-Ra. Over the years, it was thought thatAmun-Ra developed a following as he practiced the Dark Arts, cultivating the Clan of the Black Harvest is one of his devotees. Over the years, he became the leader of the Clan of the Black Harvest.¡± ¡°I see.¡± ¡°Fast forward some time. Just a few years ago, the Clan of the Black Harvest, in an attemptto obtain the ultimate power of Ukiyo Komorebi and Nara, conducted a sacred dark ritual to bring Amun-Ra back. This ritual was designed to revive Amun-Ra as the ruler of Ukiyo Komorebi.¡± ¡°Interesting,¡± answered Hikari. Not wanting to allow that she knew that the Clan of the Black Harvest was the clan trying to revive Amun-Ra. ¡°Right. Well, the ritual that the Clan of the Black Harvest performed should sacrifice thousands of the residents of Nara, using their life force and sacred energy to summon Amun-Ra and bring him back from his enenra state.¡± ¡°Well, what happened?¡± Hikari asked, intrigued by the story as this part she did not know. ¡°The Kage of the Clan of the Black Harvest along with sorcerers in the clan could open a gate, summoning Amun-Ra through it. During the ceremony, the Kanga Clan realized the ceremony, and they ambushed the ritual, ending it. That is where my Mina died. The Kanga¡¯s brought her back to my home and placed her in her bed as she died. I came home from work to find her. That is when she explained all of this to me.¡± ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for your loss.¡± ¡°During the ambush, the incomplete ritual propelled uncontrolled dark magic in every direction, dispersing it across the capital city of Nara. This resulted in dwellers around the city transforming into Manicentients, the vilest and horrifying entity imaginable. They are the foulest creatures that roam this world. They infest dark places, take pride in decay, and drain all peace, happiness, and worst of all, hope from the surrounding people.¡± ¡°Manicentients?¡± Hikari asked. ¡°Right. The Manicentients are essentiallywraiths that roam in this world. Dark creatures that fed on the souls of enlightened beings, but everyday villagers would suffice if that was all they could find. They are the deepest evil imaginable, however, they can present as their old villager body that they once inhabited, revealing themselves as the wraithlike being they are once they had convinced their prey to trust them.¡± Hikari looked pale, and unable to speak, taking in the tale being told to her. Shinobu continued, ¡°Now, the Clan of the Black Harvest is after the three holy relics of Ukiyo Komorebi. These holy relics can supply the power to revive Amun-Ra.¡± ¡°I see,¡± Hikari muttered. ¡°What are they?¡± ¡°The three relics are the Sword of Valeria, the Mirror of Purity, and the Jewel of Prosperity. These are powerful and the Crown Prince¡¯s sole purpose was to safeguard these treasures. Except they have been stolen, and no one knows where they are,¡± explained Shinobu. ¡°Oh, dear.¡± ¡°Through meditation, you came to me in a dream. That was when I found you in the grass being attacked. I believe you are the one to join the Kanga Clan and to help them find the holy relics. Mina often comes to me in my dreams and during meditation, and she guides me.¡± ¡°Me?¡± Hikari asked. ¡°Yes, you. Under my guidance, you need to be the next initiate of the Kanga Clan. I must prepare you for such a feat as the Kangas are extremely well trained and well prepared for their charge.¡± ¡°How will we accomplish this?¡± ¡°Leave that to me. For right now,you must return to Er¨©to and pretend like nothing is going on. I believe you have a mission tonight, so go on like nothing is amiss.¡± Hikari rose from her seated position and left Shinobu seated in front of the fireplace as he closed his eyes once again. Hikari bonded to Shinobu by faithfulness.