《Infinity Start》


 Ch. 1: The beginning where things change

    *tatatata!


    *boom!


    *ssst...ssst!


    *AHHHHH!!


    Various explosions, guns firing away and many people screaming as the battlefield known as War was going about within this middle eastern village.


    The U.S. Forces allied with various Eastern military groups such as South Korea, Taiwan and Australia were fighting off remnants of the ISIS groups and other sub factions. They are finally nearing the end of the battle as ISIS and the sub factions are slowly retreating their way back into Iraq after the united groups had pushed them from Eastern Europe back down to the Middle East.


    ¡­


    ¡­


    ...


    The ISIS group had been winning since 2015 and they continued to grow stronger as they rallied groups throughout the world. Many riots had surfaced in Asia, the U.S. and even communist Russia.


    People started to lose faith in U.S. Government because President Obama as the Commander-in-Chief had failed the public opinion and ISIS continued to grow.


    As ISIS grew, the world powers rallied for a meeting in chance to stop the menace that is gradually increasing.


    Finally in 2019, the Meeting was scheduled and the World Powers had finally arrived in a secluded place in Australia.


    ¡­


    Australia was a neutral country that secluded itself from the World¡¯s affairs and focused mainly on Technology alongside with Japan and even Taiwan. Japan would¡¯ve been neutral too but the U.S. government had revoked their neutrality and posed them as the Eastern Front towards the Middle East while the U.S. fought on European land.


    As a country, Japan had to fight but majority of the technology was invested into Australia on advancing science and future tech. Even in 2016, Japan and Australia had finally created an advanced technology pod that allowed a full immersion dive into an alternate reality. At the time, the experiments would be within a blank space and allowed testers to move and the testers quickly adapted to the surreal environment that allowed them to move without moving their real bodies.


    The full immersion dive effect was dubbed ¡°Full Dive¡± and it continued to grow. In late 2016, early 2017, they had finally completed a digital area where testers could continue to experiment on the generated objects and interact with the alternate reality. Then, Japan blossomed. After many had read upon various novels that depicted new worlds through immersion, Japan wanted to create a game like no other and Australia was more than happy to cooperate alongside with Taiwan.


    The three countries had worked fully on the development on the game and created a realistic world that spoke of untold legends and secrets that had yet to be discovered.


    The game was named Infinity as it mirrored the infinite possibilities to become whatever you want within a new reality that is different from the reality that you know.


    Infinity was created even though the world was still in turmoil after ISIS had grown more. The world was too focused on the War to even notice the progress of the game that had been finalized.


    The Full Dive project alongside Infinity was a success but then Japan had to focus entirely on the threatening war and Taiwan could no longer participate fully in the game¡¯s finalization.


    This called for an immediate stop on the Full Dive project and Infinity as Japan and Taiwan had to focus on the war because ISIS was gaining control over Asia/Pacific.


    Australia had respected the two country¡¯s decision thus halted the program. Australia now focused on maintaining a neutral front and focusing on other branches of Technology to better the Australian people.


    ¡­


    The reason for Australia being the location was due to their Government¡¯s neutrality in the World¡¯s affairs. As the powers gathered, people knew that Australia was going to change after the World summit.


    During the Meeting, There was the U.S. Representative, President Peter Howard, China¡¯s Representative, Chairman Xi Jinping, Russia¡¯s Representative, President Vladimir Putin, UK¡¯s Representative, King William, South Korea¡¯s Representative, President Park Geun-hye, Japan¡¯s Representatives, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Emperor Naruhito, EU¡¯s Representative, Edward Flint, UN¡¯s Representative, Ban Ki-moon and finally Australia¡¯s Representative, Julia Gillard. These were the world leaders and they convened within Australia¡¯s Government headquarters. They had gathered in this one spot to discuss the actions of ISIS and how to prevent the constantly growing Middle eastern group from expanding further...


    The U.S. had lost their voting power as their citizens had revolted against the U.S. Government due to a faulty president, so everyone had voiced their opinions except for the U.S. even after Barack Obama had resigned from his position¡­


    Russia: We should bomb those pesky rats. They keep multiplying like rats so it would be better to blow them off the face of the planet.


    Putin was vile and quite evil. He did not care for the masses and only wanted to get rid of the pesky vermin that stirred up his country a bit.


    UK: Vladimir Putin, just like always, you tend to solve everything through indiscriminate bombings. Have you thought about the consequences that may occur after wiping ISIS off the map.


    King William had spoken and he wasn¡¯t phased by Putin¡¯s words as he and Putin would often go at each other during debate over the battlefield.


    Even in the past after William had ascended the throne, there was a bit of strife between the two countries and Putin had always argued with King William.


    Russia: Bah! You are so conservative like always. Hiding in that big palace without doing anything but sending your Royal Guard to do everything for you. Stop being hesitant and we can finally destroy these pests that are infecting the world.


    King William and Putin were glaring at each other and even attempted to cause a miniature fight but then Chairman Xi Jinping spoke..


    China: You two stop fighting. We need to figure out a plan to destroy the ISIS group that dared tarnish my beautiful country¡¯s soil. I agree on annihilating them but we cannot simply throw missiles into a group that constantly moves around.


    Xi Jinping was quite angry but he couldn¡¯t afford to lose his head at such an important meeting. King William and Vladimir Putin did not care of the location and would bicker at every second they could get.


    Chairman Xi Jinping is irritated because ISIS had gained a sphere of influence in China and began to kill the citizens of China. It was annoying because many prominent chinese people had lost their heads at the hands of ISIS. Xi Jinping had lost many politicians and many officials that he even dared to launch at a missile at Iraq and Syria but he could not under the orders of the World Summit.


    South Korea: Now things are actually making sense. King William and President Putin, please stop arguing and let¡¯s focus on the agenda.


    This year, ISIS had taken over several miniature countries and has executed many political figures. We cannot determine their main hideout as they continuously move like the pests they are and many of our undercover agents had lost their lives due to being discovered.


    Now, what should we do to prevent ISIS from expanding but without launching nuclear warheads or missile groups..


    As Park Geun-hye talked, King William had returned to normal and Vladimir Putin scoffed at the Korean woman that was taking control of the summit.


    Japan¡¯s Representatives were keenly listening to the whole conversation and then EU¡¯s Edward Flint had spoken after Park Geun-hye had given a briefdown.


    EU: I, Edward Flint, propose sending in a military from both fronts to attack and slowly close down the ISIS group. It would prove useful since we cannot fire aimlessly into the unknown desert and we can rally troops through vivid messages of ISIS terrorism and we can slowly dwindle the ISIS forces through our military force.


    Edward Flint proposed a second option; Military Force. It is quite common to propose this as Military Force would be easier to end the conflict rather than destroying places that may have innocent civilians.


    The representative for the EU was speaking on a military basis and many of the world leaders nodded in acceptance. It¡¯s not like they had a super weapon that could demolish the ISIS group...well they do but it would easily destroy the area and make the Middle East inhabitable for decades.


    Ban Ki-moon finally spoke. He is a elderly korean man that had been the UN¡¯s de facto leader and a high supporter of Park Geun-hye.


    UN: I agree. I will send the UN coalition force alongside the East Asian front. I would like to focus the UN¡¯s focal point on the Asian territory to help protect Asia from harm.


    Everyone knew that Ban Ki-moon simply stated his bias attitude only for Park Geun-hye and South Korea.


    Russia: Bah! Ban Ki-moon! I know you favor that korean woman! That is the only reason you chose the Asian front!


    UN: No Putin. From a logical point, majority of the UN¡¯s forces are currently located on the Eastern Asian front and it would be quite useless just to transport the coalition force to the other side when they can simply fight now.


    Russia: Bah! Excuses!


    South Korea: Now you two, stop. What President Flint proposed is most likely what we¡¯re going to do but the thing we have to worry about is that we¡¯ve been doing that for the past few years¡­


    Simply ordering the military to attack ISIS isn¡¯t going to help as ISIS has been fighting our forces for quite some time now and they¡¯ve been on a winning streak these past years.


    So what can we do...Even if President Flint¡¯s proposal is good and all, how will we conduct our forces without losing.


    The entire group was silent¡­


    Truth was what came out of Park Geun-hye¡¯s mouth. She spoke of the undeniable truth and they cannot move on without facing it.


    The World Leaders wore grim expressions except for Japan¡¯s Representatives. Park Geun-hye and Ban Ki-moon noticed that Japan hadn¡¯t spoken once and even Edward Flint was cautiously looking at Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Emperor Naruhito that had recently ascended the throne from his father, Emperor Akihito.


    Shinzo Abe and Emperor Naruhito remained quiet. Reason being is unknown to the others but they knew they had a chance..


    The two representatives gradually smiled and Shinzo Abe spoke first¡­


    Japan-Abe: I see...so even if we build a large military...it will end up the same. I don¡¯t know what else we can do.


    Shinzo Abe ended his opinion speech but his words did not match his expression. Even as Shinzo Abe spoke that they had no hope, his face had a certain smile. A smile of arrogance, a smile of confidence, the kind of smile that people would not expect from those kind of words.


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    Vladimir Putin was enraged at Shinzo Abe¡¯s attitude and verbally expressed his emotions¡­


    Russia: SHINZO ABE! I know you are hiding something! Out with it, you sneaky Jap! Just like your ancestors, you are planning something without telling us!


    Shinzo Abe frowned in response and he was irritated but he remained his cool, arrogant smile in protest.


    President Flint was next to speak¡­


    EU: Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, if there is anything that you can do to help in this Meeting, please do share. Even if President Putin was verbally abusing you, I agree with him that you are hiding something.


    UK: Japan...there is something that you are hiding¡­


    South Korea: Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, please. We are wasting time here and if you have a solution to our dilemma..please share it with us.


    We cannot afford to waste time as lives are being wasted everyday.


    The entire World Leaders were looking at Shinzo Abe except for Australia¡¯s representative and the U.S. Representative.


    Before Shinzo Abe was going to speak, Emperor Naruhito spoke¡­


    Japan-Naruhito: We can help but on one condition...We would like to end the Treaty of San Francisco and the Security Treaty between the U.S. and Japan.


    As Emperor Naruhito blurted out the names of the treaties, the World Leaders gasped in shock. Even President Peter Howard stood up and spoke..


    US: I decline! We cannot bring about another War when we are struggling with ISIS!


    Emperor Naruhito glared at President Peter Howard.


    Naruhito did not bare any hate but the U.S. president had no opinion during the summit meeting.


    Russia: Bah! Are you Japanese trying to start another war! Do you want me to invade your country and bomb it into the ocean!


    Japan-Naruhito: Be quiet President Putin. I believe you lost against my ancestors. Anyways no, we do not have any plans for another War in the Pacific. We just want our country back.


    Japan, as a country is very successful but we cannot even create our military force. We cower behind the United States while overseas and on domestic soil, the JDSF can only do so much. We cannot protect our citizens that are within enemy territory because we cannot order a military order.


    Even in 2015, several Japanese citizens were captive and we could not intercept those vile ISIS members.


    In 2018, my father was killed by those ISIS bastards and we could not retrieve his body for a proper burial for Amaterasu.


    DO YOU KNOW HOW IT FEELS NOT BEING ABLE TO DEFEND YOUR OWN COUNTRYMEN!


    None of you know my pain since you everyone in this room can deploy on foreign soil and my forces cannot.


    I seek full empowerment right now and we will continue like we¡¯ve always been. My country will have a military again under a new name instead of the Imperial army.


    I know everyone in here is skeptical but you cannot refuse my proposal when I have something that can turn the tide of war.


    At my disposal, we can end this ISIS conflict in 2 years. Maybe less if the united forces are willing to cooperate with my proposal¡­


    So what will it be, my fellow Leaders¡­


    I¡¯ll even make this fair...if everyone votes, whatever is the outcome, the Country of Japan will still lend its full support including the special factor that can change the war...


    Decide now...and vote everyone¡­.


    Everyone was in shock. President Peter Howard was nervous because something to this degree can create backlash since he is still a new president after Barack Obama ended his.


    The faces of the leaders were full of turmoil. They knew that Japan had a great solution to end this conflict as Japan held untold secrets on the mainland. Even when they sent spies into the Japanese Government, everything was solidified and they could not be breached. Their technology was unhackable and they had various individuals that excelled in military combat.


    The Leaders were silent as the conversation was at a bottleneck. Putin was grinding his teeth as he glared at Shinzo Abe and Naruhito. President Peter Howard was pale white as he knew the backlash was going to be hard on him. Chairman Xi Jinping actually supported Japan even though in the past, they had a lot of conflict. The reason being would be of the economic profit that would escalate as the U.S. sphere of influence would disappear from Japan and they can reap the profits directly from Japan without worry. King William was a neutral force that did not have any qualms against Japan but he did think about the consequences of going along with this choice. President Flint was debating whether if he should trust the Japanese or not. Park Geun-hye was glaring at Emperor Naruhito for even suggesting the fact that the treaty would be abolished. South Korea¡¯s roots were greatly severed by Japan and even if they forgive Japan, they will never forget the shame. Ban Ki-moon also glared at the Japanese Representatives and then finally it was time to vote for a solution¡­


    Russia was the first to cast his vote..


    Russia: Declined!


    South Korea: No!


    China: I agree!


    The three had already casted their votes and already Japan was losing on votes. China agreed only for economic profit and President Howard could not voice his opinion even though he would¡¯ve declined first before Russia.


    Shinzo Abe was looking at King William and Edward Flint. He knew that those two would choose neutral but they cannot in this situation. It would add spark to the flame and Japan would pull back their word on fairness¡­


    Before King William and Edward Flint spoke, Ban Ki-moon-UN spoke.


    UN: I will disagree with full force!


    Now it was 3-1 and Japan was losing on votes. Things are getting worse for Japan and Emperor Naruhito¡¯s expression had worsen and a drop of sweat gradually slid down his face and his noble robes absorbed it.


    Shinzo Abe was sweating profusely on his forehead and his palms began to produce sweat too.


    It was now up to King William and President Flint. They can bring the vote to stalemate and recast a secondary vote or Japan will lose.


    UK: I agree¡­


    Prince William hesitated a bit but he finally agreed. Nothing bad could go wrong as Japan was quite the peaceful country now as opposed to their ancestors¡­.


    It was finally up to the European Union¡¯s representative and pressure was on him¡­


    President Flint received glares from Putin, Park and Ban as they all wanted him to refuse but then¡­


    EU: I agree also¡­


    President Flint finally agreed to Japan¡¯s proposal and it was at a stalemate. Shinzo Abe brightened up and quickly wiped off the sweat that piled on his face. Emperor Naruhito did a slight bow to show his deepest appreciation to President Flint.


    Putin, Park and Ban glared at Shinzo Abe and Naruhito and they glared back in response.


    Prime Minister Shinzo Abe spoke after the glaring contest ended¡­


    Japan-Abe: Now, let¡¯s go for a recast----


    But right when Shinzo Abe appealed for a recast, Australia¡¯s Representative, Julia Gillard spoke¡­


    Australia: I believe I have yet to cast my vote. No one paid attention to me and now I feel reluctant to do anything but I will say, even if I am neutral, I still have a say in this.


    As the Representative of Australia and the partner of Kurogane Inc, I hereby cast my vote in agreement towards Japan¡¯s full empowerment and abolishing the treaty that ties down the Japanese country.


    Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was elated that his friend, Julia Gillard had voted for his country. He almost ran towards her and kissed her. Luckily, Emperor Naruhito sensed his partner¡¯s motions and grabbed a hold of Shinzo Abe and scolded him silently.


    Russia, South Korea and the UN were crestfallen but the U.S. President was worse off. His body was slumped and his face looked as if he were staring at Death himself. Japan had won and President Howard was going to revoke the treaty himself and every problem will now land on his face.


    Before the U.S. President was about to cry out loud, Park Geun-hye glared at Emperor Naruhito and spoke¡­


    South Korea: Shaaa...I cannot believe this but Emperor Naruhito...you must abide to the rules of the Summit and before you celebrate your victory...Tell us how are we going to win..is it a new weapon...new equipment, new technology...what is it¡­


    Emperor Naruhito smiled and looked at Park Geun-hye¡­


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry...it¡¯s not a weapon or new tech...it¡¯s a person¡­¡±


    As soon as he said those words, a cold shock ran down President Howard¡¯s back and almost immediately everyone in the room knew who Naruhito was talking about except for Park Geun-hye and Ban Ki-moon¡­.


    South Korea: Person...who is this person...I believe everyone knows who this ¡®person¡¯ is but me and Ban Ki-moon¡­


    UN: Yeah...who is this person¡­


    Emperor Naruhito smiled and looked at Park Geun-hye¡­


    ¡°For a person that rules South Korea...you seem to not know anything about the military connection between us two...when you go back home, to the blue house...look up the name Ichiro¡­.¡±


    Park Geun-hye was baffled. She did not know who this person was but Ban Ki-moon was shaken up after hearing that name¡­


    UN: No¡­.no¡­.you can¡¯t mean...his descendant...oh no...I feel sorry for ISIS¡­


    The rest of the world leaders agreed on Ban Ki-moon¡¯s statement and Park Geun-hye was still clueless.


    The Japanese Representatives immediately left and everyone left quickly too.


    ¡­.


    ¡­.


    ¡­.


    Time is starting to change as Japan regained its honor back and now He¡¯s going to enter the battlefield once more¡­.


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Main</a></td><td width="25%">Next</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

 Ch 2: Who is Ichiro?

    During the times of war, people would talk about the generals that won the war, the men and women that served their country and the many sacrifices that they did for their country but what about the ones that actually saved the world.


    Yes, the world. The people that saved the world. What happened to them. Why is no one talking about them. From ancient wars in Rome to the small peninsula wars, why does no one know about the ones that saved the world. It is because ¡®they¡¯ made it like that.


    During ancient Japan, there was clan that originated deep within the roots of Ninjas and Samurais. Actually without this clan, the entire hidden force of ancient Japan would¡¯ve never existed.


    This clan is indeed the strongest clan in the entire world for two reasons. One is because they are smarter than anyone. Since long before, this clan had manipulated information and kept secret about the world. As smart as they go, this clan is above everyone. Before anyone knows about anything, this clan was the first to hear it because majority of the time, they would be the reason to cause it.


    This clan, as it manipulated information, it changed history. From Oda Nobunaga¡¯s death, it was simply fabricated by them. To the Meiji era being created, they simply were the ones to start it. History was changed for a purpose and they were the ones who did it. Even across the world, they changed history. From influencing the King of England to starting the First Crusade by Pope Urban II, they were the ones who initially started it.


    This deep rooted clan was the power behind every single powerful nation today. They literally created the world that is today and that is one of the reasons why they are strong.


    Secondly, it would be the hidden force they possess.


    The hidden force of this clan is literally the force to change the world. This force is literally a nuclear weapon that can change the world.


    Today, only the World Leaders of supreme countries know about this hidden force. Since ancient times, the clan stayed hidden from the public eye and they still are hidden but nowadays, the clan is surfacing again¡­.


    Reason being is because the heir to the clan is actually participating in World Affairs. Not from a safe spot like those World Leaders but actually in the midst of the battlefield. The heir is simply a normal soldier that is fighting for the South Korean military. This heir is from Japan so why is it that he is serving the Korean military rather than his country...the reason is unknown, but Japan knows¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    It was 2006, where the world was still growing but the world in the middle east was in turmoil.


    In the middle of Kyoto, there was a prominent Japanese family that had a traditional abode with a koi pond and a miniature waterfall garden in their backyard. With the bamboo knocking over from the increase of water, it landed on the rock with a pang! and voices could be heard from the building...


    ¡°Hahaue, I don¡¯t want to inherit the family business!¡±


    A normal Japanese male spoke as he was sitting in a respectable position in front of his Mother and Father. This male seems normal except for his alluring face and handsome features. He wore a traditional outfit as to reflect the two people that were in front of him. His outfit was a kimono robe for men but it had a traditional royal seal on the sides. The kimono was gray while the inside garment was white with several notches that were gray also.


    You would think that this is a normal traditional Japanese family that is telling their son to take over the family business but take a look again.


    There was a woman that was approximately 5¡¯4¡± with a beautiful stature as she sat down in front of me. Yes, this woman is my mother, Elaina Nakamura.


    My mother was a mixed beauty. Her hair was naturally silky black and her figure was very beautiful. If she were pure Japanese, she¡¯d simply become Japan¡¯s Yamato Nadeshiko as her features were extremely elegant and beautiful. Since I was born, I would often stare at her deep blue eyes and her motherly face which showed no impurity. My mother¡¯s body figure was very proportionate and it even bore over her kuro-sakura kimono. She was my mother and in the eyes of many, she was the perfect woman yet her expression now was a bit sad as she looked at me.


    Aside from my mother, there was a man that held a high standing in the world and Japan¡¯s society. A man whose height reached approximately to 6 feet and had a stern facial expression as he looked at me. Yes, this was my father, Kenji Nakamura.


    Next to my Mother, there was my Father. A man who wore a sleek black kimono and had regal features about him. His eyes were sharp and fully black like iron. His hair was trim as it was cut recently and it was pure black like the Mother. Looking down, the Father had a slim figure but the Son knew that his father was quite muscular for a 48 year old man.


    The two looked at their son and the Father spoke¡­


    ¡°Ichiro, you cannot disobey my orders. I told you, as the eldest son in this family, you must take responsibility and inherit the family business. No exceptions! You are my son, a very smart man and handsome too, you will find a wife to marry and take over the Kurogane corporation that our esteemed ancestors have created for us. You cannot avoid my decision as I am the only elder in this family after your shishou passed away. The only way is if you were to get conscripted into the military but I purposely blocked any influence from the JDSF to even consider taking you. Now as my son, you must take over!¡±


    My Father boomed his commanding voice as I frowned at my father¡¯s ultimatum¡­


    The family meeting between my mother and father ended and I sulked away to my room.


    ¡°Man, why do I have to do this...taking over the family business is going to be troublesome. Not only that it has a influential background, but the fact that I am going to be the CEO of said corporation.


    That will take so much time out of my life and I want to do something else. I miss those times when Shishou was alive and we¡¯d travel the world, learning many martial arts from people that were hidden from the world. That was exciting! I want a life of adventure where I can find my own place in the world.


    When Shishou was alive, I even experienced my first kill. Yes, it was a honorable deathmatch and I had to kill in order to live. I fought in the hot rainforests of Vietnam to the humid jungles of Thailand. I learned the way to kill from my Shishou as he drilled multiple techniques into my mind. I want to experience that kind of thrilling adventure where my life is on the line...but now, my family wants to tie me down. It would seem that my father knew about Shishou and how shishou trained me...Even as my Shishou died, he told me to live a free life...but why must my father tie me down...I have to find a solution..¡±


    As I looked in my room, I found a letter that was addressed to me. It looked normal except for the South Korea emblem that bore itself on the front. It would seem that one of maids had delivered this mail to my room.


    I opened the mail and finally there it was...my ticket out of here¡­


    ¡­.


    ¡­.


    ¡­.


    It¡¯s been 2 years since I retired from the South Korean Military. I simply took the role of a military man but I¡¯ve been employed by many governments in secret. Although I mainly served the ROK Marines, the U.S. government, the British SIS(Secret Intelligence Service - MI6), the United Nations, the European Council, the Chinese Government and even the Russian military all employed me. I fought on multiple territories for many countries because I had the talent to execute many underground leaders without being discovered. Even during my employment, I¡¯ve destroyed many ISIS sub groups and I dwindled their numbers by the millions. With this kind of record, assassins from all over the world would¡¯ve hunted me down but fortunate for them that they cannot find me. I am still a growing man and I do not want to kill for the time being. During my employment, I¡¯ve built a lot of wealth due to my contract jobs but now I am a free man.


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    Even if I enjoyed the thrill of being an international spy for multiple governments, I want to relax now and enjoy my free time.


    Back when my father told me to inherit the corporation, I thought at the time that it would¡¯ve been hectic to take over the company but nowadays it seems like the Kurogane corporation is doing well with my brother in charge.


    As I sit on my couch, I turned on the T.V.


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Breaking News!</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>The ISIS group has finally purged all of eastern europe except for Spain and the United Kingdom and they¡¯ve also conquered the western side of Russia. Even on the southern front, parts of Southeast Asia has turned towards the ISIS group. The world leaders are now convening at the Australian Headquarters for a Summit meeting!


    This is the World News and now, we will show a live report on the ISIS executions in Germany as they behead german politicians!</td></tr></tbody></table>


    Bzzzt¡­.


    As the new reporters redirected the viewers towards the reporter that is in Germany, I simply sighed at the ongoing war..


    ¡°What are those governments doing...I literally helped them during the ISIS raid in 2015 and in 2016 right before I retired in 2017...what the hell is going on with the World Leaders¡­¡±


    I simply shook my head at the idiocy that the World Leaders did to escalate the problem¡­


    ¡°What the hell...well, it¡¯s none of my problems anymore so I will ignore it. I am fine where I am, right in Niigata. I have my own house, my pets and my weapons. I left that scene to the rest of the military. I am finally free¡­¡±


    I took a sip of my green tea and my phone rang¡­


    *drring drring!


    ¡°Hello, who is this..?¡±


    Man, whoever this person is, must be cautious because the number is designated as a security line..my phone already detected the security phone line...


    ¡°Ichiro-san, this is Shinzo Abe. I am calling to tell you something.¡±


    Yikes, the Prime Minister...I wonder what he needs...


    ¡°Ah, Prime Minister-san! Why didn¡¯t you use your old phone. Anyways, what can I do for you, Prime Minister...before you answer, I will not return.¡±


    ¡°Ah, quick as usual. Ichiro, under my executive order, I will order you to return.¡±


    WHAT!? No, I will not return to the battlefield. I am free now and they cannot employ me by force. That was my last declaration when I left the force¡­


    ¡°Prime Minister Shinzo Abe-san, I do not mean disrespect but you cannot order me like that. I will end communications no---¡±


    ¡°Wait, Ichiro-kun! I was just joking. I know I cannot force you deploy into the field but please hear me out¡­¡±


    Silence continued for 15 seconds until Ichiro spoke¡­


    ¡°Okay, I am guessing the Summit meeting is over and you want me to take care of your trash because you couldn¡¯t handle it after I left. Is this correct or no?¡±


    Prime Minister Shinzo Abe gulped and continued¡­


    ¡°Ah! yes...How did you figure it out¡­¡±


    I am really irritated right now...how the hell did those people screw up...


    ¡°Prime Minister, everyone watches the news now since ISIS is continuing to grow. When I left, I made sure that the ISIS group was almost finished. I do not care what happens now because you and those petty world leaders screwed up. Now I will go.¡±


    ¡°Wait! Ichiro-kun! I admit that we failed badly! But, I have a proposition! I remember when you told me about what you aspire to do...become free and live a life of adventure¡­¡±


    Hmm...Prime Minister Shinzo Abe seems to be on something...I might have to listen too...since I disrespected him by informal speech...oh well..let¡¯s hear it..


    ¡°Yes, I wanted to be free because I lived a life of bloodshed during my teenage years and I am now 27. I want to live free without having anything tie me down...so what are you proposing, Prime Minister-san¡­¡±


    ¡°Well, I know something that you don¡¯t know¡­¡±


    ¡°Let me guess, you and Australia developed a full dive project and a reality game world that allows people enter a new world of adventure with magic...Yes, I know everything about Japan. Don¡¯t you remember who taught me. I am also a descendant of that clan. I know you know what I mean, Prime Minister.¡±


    I was getting irritated because the Prime Minister is trying to bribe me with a stupid game¡­


    ¡°Ichiro-kun...it shocks me to no end that you figured out everything...but let me tell you this...did you know that we achieved something that even if you knew about it, you still wouldn¡¯t believe it...Yes, we developed the game and everything...but we created a specialized pod for bringing out almost 100% of realism into the game world. The reason why I say almost, is because we need someone to use it and I would think that you would enjoy this because not only you can dive into the world but you can literally live in it...A world that is not controlled by any government, a world of freedom where the strong reigns above all...a life separate from ours...the boundless possibilities to be whoever you want to be...Infinity.¡±


    Now that seems interesting...do I really want to get back into action...Fuck it, let¡¯s just do it. This¡¯ll better be worth it or I will kill those World Leaders by my hand...I don¡¯t like being tricked¡­


    ¡°Prime Minister Shinzo Abe-san...give me time to reconsider¡­¡±


    *Click!


    I hung up the phone. I guess it¡¯s time to move out and finish the job¡­


    In almost 20 minutes, Ichiro prepared his night gear and military equipment and already left Japan on his private jet. He brought his Katana that he forged during his apprenticeship under his Shishou, Ryoma Kurogane¡­.


    ¡°Shishou...I am going back to the field...after..I will be free from this world and I will live a world of freedom...I will be back, Shishou.¡±


    I looked out the window as I left Niigata Airport and the mainland slowly disappeared¡­


    Next Destination, Germany¡­.


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Previous</a></td><td width="25%">Main</a></td><td width="25%">Next</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

 Ch 3: First Phase

    After Ichiro¡¯s private jet had left the Niigata Airport, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe got the notification of his departure.


    ¡°I see, he is already moving out. May Amaterasu bring guidance to his judgement and hope that whoever is his enemy may finally know true terror¡­¡±


    Shinzo Abe spoke these few solemn words as he was in his Headquarters in Tokyo. His two assistants shuddered at the words as the Prime Minister spoke to himself¡­


    ¡°Ah! Kazeki, get Mrs. Julia Gillard, Australia¡¯s Prime Minister on the phone. Our plan is going to start.¡±


    ¡°Hai!¡±


    One of the assistants immediately left the room and began to redirect the main phone line to Australia¡¯s Headquarters. In a few seconds, the phone was ringing on Shinzo Abe¡¯s desk¡­


    *Drring Drring!


    ¡°Hello, Mrs. Julia, this is Shinzo Abe, everything is going according to plan. Let¡¯s start the first phase and let¡¯s get these pods out to the world. Everything is going to change both politically and technology-wise as ISIS is going to be crushed and the world¡¯s best game is being launched simultaneously.¡±


    ¡°Oho, Mr. Shinzo Abe, seems like everything went well. I wonder how you convinced the infamous Black Dragon to move...please entertain me on how you achieved this miracle.¡±


    ¡°Ah, even the Black Dragon has dreams. I simply said that we would give him a new reality, a fresh start, a place of unknown dangers, a world of adventure...Yes, Mrs. Julia. He¡¯s became our first subject. I wonder how the system will react when an individual like Ichiro is entering the new world. They might kill him for being so powerful but I doubt that they could...Even the A.I.¡¯s within the game wouldn¡¯t dare attack Ichiro¡­¡±


    ¡°I see..so let¡¯s hope for the future. This project is something that will change the world and the Black Dragon is going to be the first to try out our second generation Dive pod which will actually transport the body into the new realm. This is going to change a lot of lives as people could live a new life within a new world...I just hope this experiment goes well because we do not want to anger the Black Dragon and ¡®that clan¡¯.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. We will get this game going while Ichiro is handling our mess. I am ashamed that we failed to destroy ISIS but this time, ISIS will not survive. While the Black Dragon is taking care of ISIS, the world will experience Infinity and maybe Ichiro will take the challenge. He is still reconsidering but I believe he¡¯ll be convinced once the world hears about this game.¡±


    ¡°I hope so, Mr. Shinzo Abe. The Black Dragon is an unstoppable monster. I do not want to die from his hands. Even if we send armies marching to his house, they will simply die from his hands. He is an unstoppable force so we cannot risk angering him. I hope our specialized pod is successful¡­¡±


    As the two were talking, the assistants were scared stiff. They heard rumours about the Black Dragon but they did not know if the person was actually real. They say that there was a man who killed off multiple underground leaders with his bare hands. People would often say that this man would be shot multiple times but the person would still be alive. The Black Dragon is known by many names but the name ¡®Black Dragon¡¯ sticks more due to his presence.


    In life, people have intuition or some sort of ethereal force that allows them to sense other people. As these people perceive auras, there is one that often sticks out. An aura that is similar to a dragon. A fierce dragon as if it were going to devour you alive and you cannot escape its fangs. The Black Dragon is a man with a Dragon aura that can immobilize his enemies by simply his presence. He has an unbelievable fighting spirit that can cause expert martial artists to simply cover in fear. His aura is that dangerous and this is why they call the man, the Black Dragon.


    As the assistants were a bit scared, they did not notice that Emperor Naruhito was at the door. As soon as they noticed the Emperor, they immediately bowed in respect and spoke¡­


    ¡°Tenno! Forgive my insolence! Emperor Naruhito! I apologize for my rudeness!¡±


    ¡­


    ¡°Emperor!¡±


    The two assistants immediately got in a prostrating position and bowed repeatedly for forgiveness.


    Shinzo Abe noticed Naruhito and told Julia Gillard to begin preparing to distribute the game and Dive pods to the U.S. first to calm the citizens from raiding the White House and then to the rest of the world.


    ¡°Ah! Emperor Naruhito. What brings you here today?¡±


    ¡°Prime Minister, I came here to hear about ¡®him¡¯. Did he agree?¡±


    ¡°Ah! Yes. Don¡¯t worry, Emperor Naruhito. The Black Dragon has already left.¡±


    ¡°Also, Prime Minister..President Peter Howard will now revoke the treaty and our country will now regain its honor back. I would like to discuss the future with you. Since our country is going to be solidified, we need one leader to rule the country.¡±


    ¡°Indeed, Emperor Naruhito. I would like for you to rule our country but I would like to be your political advisor. I do not want to rule but I would like for our country to advance faster than any other country. With the corporate backing of Kurogane Inc, we will rule the world and head into space before any of the countries realize our intention.¡±


    ¡°Prime Minister...things are going to get busy now. I hope you explained everything to Ichiro. If he finds out about something that you did not explain to him before you actually explain it to him, he will kill us all. The clan isn¡¯t to be messed with.¡±


    ¡°Hai...everything is going according to plan, Emperor. Do not worry. I will have one of my assistants escort you out and I hope you can forgive their rudeness. They seem to have heard about the Black Dragon and they were quite shocked from the news.¡±


    ¡°I will excuse myself then, Prime Minister. Your assistants need more discipline next time and make sure none of the leaders ask questions about Ichiro. We would like if nothing were to happen later...angering Ichiro is literally like a nuclear bomb going off and I do not want to be in that explosion...I will see you later, Prime Minister.¡±


    ¡°Good-bye, Emperor.¡±


    Emperor Naruhito left the room and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe began to administer orders for the new game that is developed at the Full Dive technology that cannot be reproduced. Life is changing in the Far East but things are going to change even more¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    *Du-du-du!


    *Shrrrk!


    *Shkkk!


    A private jet was flying over enemy airspace and various bullets and anti-aircraft missiles were being launched but the private jet already had contingency plans against the missiles and fired off flares to disrupt the missiles¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Service Pilot</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Master Ichiro, we are nearing the destination above Berlin Airspace, Germany. We are encountering heavy fire but our aircraft is more equipped than those pesky ISIS rats. The estimated time arrival is 5 minutes over our destination. Master Ichiro, your equipment is already set and I hope for your safety.


    *Bzzzt!</td></tr></tbody></table>


    I sat on a mechanical seat as my service pilot spoke those words. It¡¯s finally time to start working again. I really don¡¯t want to but I am interested in that project that Australia, Taiwan and Japan had developed. I already heard from my sources that the pod would allow a full body transfer into a new world and I really want to test it out¡­


    However, I have to get this stupid job done¡­


    Those World leaders are too lazy, why can¡¯t they do this shit themselves...Whatever, I am still getting payment for this kind of job and I want to experience that new world¡­


    As Ichiro was talking to himself, the airlock had opened and the service pilot began to speak on the intercom again¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Service Pilot</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Master Ichiro, we are one minute away from your destination. I already opened the lock and everything is ready to go. May success come your way forever, Master Ichiro. ETA 20 seconds.


    This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    *Bzzzt!</td></tr></tbody></table>


    I grab my gear as the Service pilot spoke and I looked at the airlock that opened¡­


    Well, time for work..


    Ichiro ran and exited the private jet that was still being bombarded¡­


    ¡­


    ...


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Breaking News!</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>The ISIS group has executed over 20 german officials in Berlin today! Here¡¯s our report, Elaine Amber on the scene as ISIS beheads the german offiials.


    ...


    *Boom!


    Today, ISIS has taken over many countries and now they are firing off into the sky as they behead the german officials. It¡¯s been several minutes since they started and just recently, they began to fire missiles into the sky. Unfortunately, we do not know the reason for the abrupt firings but the ISIS members began to yell out orders and its personnel has begun to fire into the sky.


    Wait! Cameraman, aim into the sky!


    What is that!


    Is that a person!


    The ISIS group has begun to fire a barrage wave of ammunition towards the unknown figure but no one knows who this person is! Things are heating up as bullets are flying towards the unknown person but the thing is, that person is still alive! It looks as if the person is swaying in the air as he dodges the bullet barrage while swinging his hand.


    Wait!


    Is that a Katana blade? This man is actually fending off the bullet spray with a single katana blade!


    Ladies and gentlemen! This is shocking but a single man is handling a barrage from over 50 militants of ISIS!</td></tr></tbody></table>


    ¡­


    ¡­


    *Crash!


    The ground suddenly shook as the unknown person landed right in the execution area. There was an aftereffect from the person and a cloud of dust appeared right when the man came into contact with the ground.


    The ISIS group were coughing as the dust cloud engulfed their members and they were stupid enough to inhale the particles.


    The dust was clearing and there stood a man garbed in black military gear while wielding a single Katana blade.


    The blade was already damp with stains of blood. As the dust cleared, the ISIS executioner was already killed by the man during the landing process. The ISIS group immediately fired upon the unknown person but every time, the man would swiftly shatter the bullets in half using his unique katana blade.


    The ISIS group began to throw multiple grenades but the man simply kicked them back and the group¡¯s number slowly dwindled from the kicked grenades. From 50 militants, it gradually dropped to 24.


    The rest of the german individuals were freed by the man¡¯s blade attack on the ropes. Now, the arena was surrounded by the ISIS militants and one man stood in the center. From far away, a war reporter and her crewman was recording the entire scrimmage¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td>The unknown man just beheaded the executioner! This unknown man would actually dare go against ISIS. Is this a superhuman that the world leaders sent against ISIS?


    Just recently, the World Leaders convened in Australia¡¯s HQ and the meeting ended quickly but suddenly, this man appeared out of nowhere!


    Wow! This man is a superhuman. Those swiftblade movements simply shattered the bullets and none of them actually reached the unknown man.


    This unknown man seems to be from somewhere, we cannot discern his actual figures as he is pretty covered up but his only his eyes and hair are recognizable but one cannot ignore the body that is behind that equipment.


    Even though the equipment, one can see that this man is incredibly trained and bares muscles that many desire. Even I, Elaine Amber would want to meet this man...in private of course but besides that, this man is unknown.


    This man has pure black hair and his eyes seem to be of asian descent. You can tell that this man is manly by his eye expression as he tackles the ISIS group...I simply cannot stop looking at this man! AHHH!!


    *Bzzzzt</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Channel 45 is experiencing technical difficulties, we will bring the live coverage back on air as soon as possible!</td></tr></tbody></table>


    ¡­


    ¡­


    The 24-man group began to attack Ichiro but they were all killed with precise movements. Using his knowledge of assassin techniques, Ichiro had successfully repelled this minor ISIS group. All 50 members were killed at the German individuals had escaped successfully¡­.


    These ISIS groups are still the same after all these years...well, it¡¯s only been two years since I left the field and they still are stupid like always...I wonder when I will finally get a break from this torture...I want to play that game...Haaa¡­


    Oh well, I have to wait for the EU/UK forces here...they are so slow...I probably have to call President Flint to direct me to their commander so I can take over...I want to hurry and finish this stupid job and go back home...I hate this place...smells disgusting with these ISIS trash¡­


    *Click!


    *Drring drring!


    ¡°President Flint, this is the Black Dragon, I need full authorisation over the European forces and address that order to King William.¡±


    ¡°Ichiro. You know things are going to be troublesome if we do that. How can they take orders from someone they do not know. Majority of the generals don¡¯t even know you exist...how can we simply give you full authorisation over our group when they won¡¯t listen to you¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll make them listen. Don¡¯t make me repeat myself. I want the EU forces alongside the UK to know of my presence and they cannot object or else I will put them through training. Understood, President Edward Flint or should I say Edward Filia Garner Flint. I know where you are, just remember that.¡±


    *Click!


    Hmpf, these world leaders are getting cocky after they sent me to deal with their trash. I ought to kill them for such insolence but I don¡¯t want to risk my chance on not getting access to that game...well I could always steal it but that wouldn¡¯t be fun and it would break Shishou¡¯s laws..


    Well, I guess I will sit here and wait¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    The unknown man simply sat down after making a call and the war reporter continued to film the man as he was surrounded by dead corpses of the ISIS members.


    Elaine Amber wanted to rush out there but her crewman stopped her from making a ruckus. They did not know who the man was and how dangerous he was. Unfortunately for them, Ichiro already sensed them from the hidden position within the abandon building but he wouldn¡¯t do anything to them. It¡¯s not like they could identify him¡­


    But then¡­


    There was a paper that slipped out of the military gear from the unknown man. This paper was normal as papers were scattered in the battlefield but something was noticeable...there was Japanese symbol on the front that designated towards the Prime Minister and it was on camera...


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Previous</a></td><td width="25%">Main</a></td><td width="25%">Next</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

 Ch 4: The beginning of the end

    After the incident with the mysterious man, the entire world went crazy. Multiple bloggers ranted about the mysterious man, twitter being blown out of proportion and even Facebook crashed after the constant updates of this unknown man.


    The world was already cowering in fear as the ISIS group was quite the terrifying force. They¡¯ve been bombed, killed and nations ordered many air strikes yet they¡¯ve continued to expand. The world had literally given up on the superpower nations as they could not contain this group that continued to expand.


    Even in the U.S., the government would often be harassed by the public because they have failed to protect their own country. Multiple domestic attacks occurred in the U.S. but the government could not stop the attacks of the ISIS group.


    Riots would explode over the whole world and many of them were mainly about nuking the entire Middle East to rid the world from the source of our problems. But nothing could be done. Neither of the World Leaders would even attempt a nuclear strike because they too, will be affected by the drastic measures.


    The public opinion on the World Leaders and the Summit continued to decline year after year and ISIS continued to grow. In 2019, the world had nearly succumbed to the ISIS group as they killed and expanded. The ISIS group had indeed created another Rome but under the laws of the islamic group.


    Now, as the world looked up this common news channel, they found hope¡­


    Hope in a man that is unknown, with hidden agendas but only a select few knew about him. Others would never dare speak of his name as he is the Black Dragon. He knows everything¡­


    Then suddenly, the world continued to blow up in astonishment. Right after the news about the unknown man, a Japanese corporation titled Kurogane Inc has finally released a life changing technology that will allow the world to dwell in a new reality. The world was in uproar as the two news continued to escalate.


    At first, people were skeptical but many political figures from U.S. including President Howard had already tried this new reality. They even broadcasted the live feed on the Presidential address as they wanted the public to focus on something else besides the ISIS terror. The U.S. government wanted the Public to calm down after lashing against their president after he had given an international changing decision: The revokement of the two treaties that binded the Japanese Country. As much as the public hate was pointed at President Howard, many were a bit happy at the decision. With the revoking of the treaties, President Howard brought home news that will change the society.


    News that will alter the gaming world and technology that will change the future. A future technology that many would desire to have. Equipment that will allow them to enter a world like no other. That was the reward that President Howard returned to his citizens in exchange for the Treaties.


    All over, people were skeptical about Japan but cleverly, they also announced the coming of a new game that allowed people to enter a new realm alongside with the future technology of Full Dive capabilities.


    The world was in uproar as the Kurogane Inc skyrocketed in fame. Their corporation was now one of the richest businesses alongside a few others.


    Australia and Taiwan benefitted from the Kurogane Inc as they had exclusive deals surrounding the technology and game development. In accordance to their contract/deal, Kurogane Inc will be the main proprietor for the game and the technology while Australia and Taiwan would reap the income from the sidelines. Japan did not mind because the three countries had cooperated together to create this new world.


    Along with the contract, Australia and Taiwan would get their own private sanction within the game world. The private sanction would actually become an entire continent within the game world. There would be countless opportunities but in the beginning, the new world will have three starting continent regions. Of those two, Australia and Taiwan will own their respective continents as the rest of the world will begin on the main continent in the middle.


    This was also good because from there, Australia and Taiwan can reap the incomes from the land and do what they see fit with their own continent.


    Normally, the middle/main continent would¡¯ve been under the jurisdiction of the Japanese country but they decided to leave it to the players. The reason being is because the Japanese people often sought honor and glory for themselves. They did not want to simply be in control because they were given it but they want to earn it. Earning that honor is much better than seizing it unfairly as it would tarnish their ancient glory. AND also, who wouldn¡¯t want a chance to rule an entire continent.


    That gave promise to the world as people desired fame and fortune and many would seek to achieve that zenith of power.


    As the world escalated from the two world changing news, back at the Kurogane inc, where the corporation was under heavy stress due to workload increasing to 500%, there was a man that sat in an office at the top of the main headquarters in Tokyo.


    This man was a young businessman. Age was around 21 and he had a miniature mustache as it reflected his manly posture but he was still a young man. He had semi-broad shoulders and short, smooth hair. The man was Japanese but many would see features from other asian races. He was a bit tall, lean muscle and had a sharp expression but his eyes would defer that expression. His eyes were black like iron and his hair seemed to match.


    Yes, this man is the CEO of Kurogane Inc, Keiji Nakamura.


    After assuming control over the Kurogane corporation from his father, Kenji Nakamura, Keiji continued to raise the corporation to honor his father¡¯s wishes after his brother rejected the position.


    As the brother of Ichiro, Keiji loved his brother. His brother often took care of him and his sister, Hana Nakamura, when they were little. Their parents would often be overseas and Ichiro would always take care of them even as he was being instructed by Ryoma. Keiji always respected his brother as Ichiro would take care of them. Keiji often dreamt to become someone as capable as his brother but something shocked Keiji that day.


    His brother had left the family, not permanently but he was called in for mandatory service in South Korea. Ichiro was the only one with multiple citizenship and he was of proper age to receive the letter of service.


    Keiji was heartbroken as his brother would be leaving but after he left, he found out about the news of his brother¡¯s choice. He knew that his brother, Ichiro could¡¯ve avoided service by simply taking over the family corporation.


    The night when his brother left, his father called him in and told him of the news that he would be the next heir to the corporation. He was speechless but he knew in his heart that his brother was the rightful owner.


    Thus, Keiji held onto the position for when his brother returns, he will gladly return the position to the true successor¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    As Keiji sat on his chair, he was looking at a live video on his business laptop. A smile was seen on his face, something that is quite rare but many women would fall for. A smile so pure that it illuminated the dull gray room with a soft environment.


    Keiji smiled as he saw his brother, the one that is now in Germany, destroying the ISIS members. He smiled because his brother is safe and still alive after all these years. Even after his brother retired, Keiji knew about everything from his reports yet his brother disappeared 2 years after retirement. Keiji was sad as he did not know where his brother was but now, everything is fine¡­


    ¡°Aniue...you are safe. I, your otouto, has kept the family business alive. We have successfully developed a new technology and a game where people will be able to enjoy after the terrors of ISIS. Aniue, please return. This position rightfully belongs to you, not me. I hope you will return to us, Brother.¡±


    Keiji spoke as he saw his brother massacre the ISIS members skillfully with his blades¡­


    ¡°Aniue, I see you have never neglected your training, even after Ryoma passed away...your Shishou would be proud of you if he were still alive..¡±


    Keiji closed the live video and opened up a window where multiple corporations from around the world were sending him corporation contracts about the game and new technology¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    The EU/UK forces arrived in Berlin and the unknown man stood up¡­


    ¡°Finally, they are here. This is why ISIS is taking over. You guys are slow.¡±


    Ichiro spoke condescendingly as the military front marched towards him.


    Sheesh, these people do not know how to march. They¡¯re already tired after ¡®marching¡¯ that far. Just what the hell were they doing. I hope they weren¡¯t being stupid and went a separate direction from the plan course. Some ISIS groups are still active in Germany¡­


    ¡°Who are you and why the hell are you here!?¡± One of the military scouting members shouted in response to me.


    ¡°Where is your commanding officer. I need to speak to him.¡±


    ¡°Civilian member, I will have you evacuate this area. There is imminent danger as we stand here. Please leave this area with one of soldiers.¡±


    Are you ignoring me, you insolent brat. I will have to teach you some lessons¡­


    I swiftly close the distance between me and that idiotic brat and clutch his uniform and raised him in the air.


    ¡°Look here, I didn¡¯t ask for help or anything, I simply gave you an order AND tell the rest of your men to back down on their weapons before I slaughter your puny military force.¡±


    The man was shrieking in surprise as I raised him in the air before anyone knew what was going on. I looked him straight in the eyes and he shivered in fear..


    ¡°Al-alright! Let me down! Men! At ease! Do not engage!¡±


    I gently settled him down and created a small gap between him and me. I raised my katana blade and began to clean the blood from the sharp edge and looked at the men that were astonished.


    ¡°What? Have you never seen a Katana before or blood?¡±


    ¡°Wha-what happened here!¡±


    The men looked at the corpses that were sliced perfectly into pieces. Some debris were collapsed from the offset grenades and many of the ISIS members were beheaded too. Blood was seen everywhere as the corpses dyed the entire area in the execution stage.


    ¡°Well, I need your commanding officer to get here. Please do not anger me because I would hate to clean my katana twice for no reason.¡±


    If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    The men were surprised as they were still fresh recruits in the field. They¡¯ve experienced some bloodshed but none of it was like what they saw behind the unknown man.


    A commanding officer with an appropriate officer rank came behind the group of men that shuddered at the image behind Ichiro. The man was surprised but he continued forward to meet the unknown man¡­


    ¡°Hello, my name is Commander Bri--¡±


    ¡°Yes, Commander Bridge, I know who you are. Did you receive the message from your Military Chief.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I did. President Flint sends his regards. I thank you for your previous service during the Raid in Italy. I know who you are, Sir. You saved my life when I was still a fresh officer in the field. I truly appreciate your service.¡±


    ¡°No need. We are going to be busy from now on. I will be taking over this military force along with the UK forces. I need the UK¡¯s military commander here. Send that person here.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir!¡±


    Commander Bridge saluted the unknown man. Every military personnel was shocked at the sudden respect and appearance towards the unknown man. They did not know who he was but they knew that this man was powerful indeed. Even to order their Commander was something that told them that this unknown man was a higher ranking officer and they could not afford to irritate this man as he nearly killed their scout.


    Commander Bridge did an about face and spoke..


    ¡°You! Lieutenant Sanders, go and send word to UK Commander Elis to report here. She is needed urgently. Make haste.¡±


    The lieutenant saluted and immediately charted off to another section of the military force which had the UK¡¯s unique uniforms.


    Commander bridge turned around and began to talk to the unknown man¡­


    ¡°So, will you be fighting with us, Sir?¡±


    ¡°Commander Bridge, rather Robert Bridge, please do not use formalities when talking to me. Sure, I am a higher rank but I¡¯d like to demolish such formalities when we are in enemy territory and currently at war. I want this to be known to everyone here. You will address me by Ichiro. I¡¯d rather get this stupid war over with. I am wasting time so I cannot dwell on this topic so everyone here, I want this information to be spread out. You will either call me Mister or Ichiro. Choose what you must but I cannot have formalities when I am thinking about how to annihilate the entire ISIS group.¡±


    I inhaled and initiated my presence to be known to everyone in the vicinity.


    ¡°UNDERSTOOD!¡±


    My voice sounded like a verbal quake as the members shuddered in fear. My commanding voice was loud enough to wake up a unaware war reporter that was sleeping in an abandoned building.


    ¡°Now, Robert, I will have your men do the initial scouting procedure around this area. I already killed off this sub group but I cannot have any casualties in this area. We will be setting up a standard Military op base here. I need intelligence officers in this area and I need comms established in 1 hour. Not a second late because I want to hurry up and get out of this war.¡±


    ¡°I will, Ichiro. I will make sure to handle your orders appropriately and swiftly as possible. Commander Elis is approaching this area. She will be debriefing you on the circumstances that came when we approached Berlin.¡±


    Robert left the area as he spoke.


    I need these people to hurry up. I would like to get this stupid war over with...I could go kill them but it would take 2 years to fully destroy the ISIS group...with the military fronts attacking, I can get this done in a few months...hopefully...let¡¯s just hope the forces on the Chinese/Russian front are doing well...I need to talk to their commanders too...which is why I need comms right now..


    Commander Elis approached the unknown man and she...squealed¡­.


    ¡°Ohhh! Mister Ichiro! I did not know you were here!¡±


    WHAT!? GAH! It¡¯s been 3 years since I seen her...but why the hell did she squeal..anyways..I know she knows why I am here....unless President Flint did not deliver my orders...or was it King William..WHAAAAAA!?


    Commander Elis immediately ran and tackled Ichiro to the floor¡­


    ¡°Wha-what! WAIT! LINA KATE ELIS! STAND AT ATTENTION!¡±


    Lina immediately stood up and got into attention.


    What the hell is wrong with this woman...gah¡­


    I stood up and looked at the woman..


    ¡°Really..you are assaulting me on the first day we meet. Really...you are just like your mother...why do you two always tackle me...sheesh. Anyways, At ease, Commander Elis. I need to tell you about what we are going to do.¡±


    Lina immediately went to at ease and she was blushing a bit and she was smiling at me...what the hell...she is sending beams of light at me...yikes...like her mother..what the hell...Oh god..I need to make sure to watch out for her...I can only defend against people who are coming after me with killing intent..but her intent is more like she wants to get with me!?


    ¡°Mister Ichirooo~ Remove that metal gear! I want to see your handsome face please!!¡±


    ¡°Gah woman! NO! WE ARE AT WAR! NOW STOP!¡±


    ¡°Soooo~ When war is done, will you remove everything for mee~¡±


    ¡°WAIT WHAT NO! ELIS STOP WITH THE SEXUAL INNUENDOS. Now, I AM POSITIVE you heard from King William that I will be taking over. Although many do not know of me, I want you to tell your forces to address me as Mister or Ichiro. I cannot stand formalities when we are engaged in war. I also want your Intelligence officers and the MI6 members to report to this area. We will be making a military base right in Berlin and I need comms up in one hour. Robert is already working on gather his members and I need yours too. Hurry and go.¡±


    "Wait! Mister Ichiro I need to debrief you on the situation that occurred when we came into Berlin..."


    "Ah, I could probably guess what went down. You guys went on a different path from your orders and encountered some leftover ISIS members from their group...isn''t that right?"


    "Ho-how did you know...Mister Ichiro...?"


    "Just by looking, I can tell how you and Robert encountered your little skirmish. Looking at the posture of your soldiers, they are clearly worn out from battle...really...why didn''t you follow the plan..anyways, hurry and go do what I told you to do, Lina..and stop with the affectionate actions..we are amidst a war, you do know that......right?"


    "Yes, Mister Ichiro..."


    I quickly dismissed Lina as she was receiving my orders. She pouted as she had to leave but it was for the best¡­


    Gah...look even the Royal military is shocked at her actions..what kind of Commander assaults a man in broad daylight...what the hell...I need to cautious...I do not know when she might come after me at night¡­.


    I look at the mixed soldiers as they eyed me with curious gazes, astonished looks and some were laughing after the whole situation with the woman commander.


    ¡°Really..I need to hurry and get out of here¡­¡±


    I simply sigh and sit down on a broken debris and sheathed my katana blade back in my saya and placed in on my belt socket to secure the blade from falling.


    ¡­


    ¡­


    An hour later, comms were established and the military group began to do their preparation for a military base with the area sectioned off as the headquarters. The groups even found the war reporter, Elaine Amber and escorted her to the military base that was created in just a few hours but she could not broadcast anything while in the base.


    I contacted the Russian/Chinese/Japanese forces on the opposite front and gave them a briefing on the operations that are going to be done. They were a bit skeptical until Vladimir Putin, Chairman Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe forcefully ordered the men to obey my orders.


    The orders were to slowly encroach the members and squeeze them down back into their middle eastern area.


    2 months went by and the forces continued to repel the group and many of the ISIS group leaders fell by my hands.


    The world was seeing a miracle as ISIS was being destroyed from two opposite sides. The reason was due to my precise military operations that were conducted on several factors.


    One, the ISIS group continued to use their similar tactics so I clearly told everyone to follow my orders and perform as instructed. The first few skirmishes were bad as some members did not follow my orders and they died. Eventually, they began to listen confidently and we successfully repelled the sub groups.


    Two, was that the ISIS group continued their usual habits when they would stay in seldom areas that were unknown to the public but I know them like the back of my hand.


    Day after day, we raided the ISIS bases and I killed off multiple ring leaders within the group and their forces dwindled down..


    Elaine Amber would report what was going but I carefully instructed her not to record anything that pertained to him or any confidential items.


    Reason I say not to record me was because of the call I received 2 months ago when I established comms in Berlin. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was receiving news reports, letters, emails and calls from around the world. They apparently saw a parchment that I received from the Prime Minister and I was a bit dumbfounded. I also found out that Elaine Amber was the person who broadcasted everything so I repeatedly told her to never film me because it could risk my identity.


    Anyways, we are now heading closer to the border of middle east. We are now in Turkey and we are closing in on main leader of ISIS which he is located in Iraq...I know he¡¯s the leader because I spared him...and I am not going to do it again...


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Previous</a></td><td width="25%">Main</a></td><td width="25%">Next</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

 Ch 5: Issues with people

    Two months passed and the world is filled with ecstatic news. A month ago, the game Infinity had launched its first initial server start with multiple people that had already bought the Dive pod from the Kurogane corporation. They even established branches in major countries in order to deliver the game and the new technology equipment. Many people were amused that it was going to be like that Korean novel about a korean male participating in a virtual reality game with near perfect reality experiences. The male was an audacious sculptor that roamed the continents, creating miracles, befriending others, being cheap but the main thing was that it was a new world, different from reality.


    As the game, Infinity launched, the world was taken up by storm. People were astounded by the features that were displayed on monitors and the internet was out of control. On a common chatroom, people were talking about the reality game¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Mek: This game is so real! It¡¯s like I could be a turtle and a cat at the same time!


    ArkkenBB: I know right! Wait, a turtle cat..What is your ingame name?


    Mek: It is Mek...why do you want my ign..?


    ArkkenBB: I WANT TO RIDE A TURTLE CAT!


    Mek: NO! *do a barrel roll*


    Kanadaj: You noobs, obviously I am going to read up in the library and make my profession as a Wizard. Unlike Turtle cat and American bishie, I am going to own a place in Infinity and people will follow me and create poor amateur works!


    ArkkenBB: Bah, you noob wizard. I bet you got stuck on the tutorial!


    Kanadaj: Ho-how did you know that!?


    ArkkenBB: Wait..it was real? PPFFFFFT WOW! Lame! NOOB!


    Reshi: Danna-sama, don¡¯t mind that dork. You will be a handsome wizard!


    Kanadaj: Waifuuu. Me wuv you!


    Reshi: I wuv you too


    Mek: ¡­.so about the game¡­


    ArkkenBB: Go get a room you two. This is a public chat, not the goddamn bedroom sheesh.


    Reshi: Jealous *smirk*


    Kanadaj: Ohoho! Bow in my greatness! I AM KANA THE WIZARD


    Ramzic: Stupid noobs I swear...I wonder who did the initial voice system when you start up the Dive pod...whoever it was...that female sounded hot...I think my girlfriend might kill me for that though...good thing she isn¡¯t here¡­


    Mek: Okay...before this chat gets crazy...the game is so realistic! I could hear the birds chirping, the wind brushing against my face...it really is another reality...I think Japan did something good.


    Rainte: Ero-sama probably built this game!


    Kanadaj: ¡­.


    Reshi: ¡­..


    Mek: ¡­..


    Ramzic: ¡­¡­


    User ArkkenBB has logged out


    User Rainte has been booted out of the chat


    </td></tr></tbody></table>


    The world is changing on two fronts. While the world is preoccupied by the release of Infinity, the ISIS group is losing strength. Already, they¡¯ve been pushed out of Europe and their sphere of influence were crushed by Russia and the Chinese forces. People cheered for the military forces since they were winning for once. But none of them knew of the reality that there was a hidden force leading that same army.


    Even news about the Unknown man diminished as no one knew who he was. Even when they saw the parchment note from the Prime Minister of Japan, they simply denied any speculation that came from the public.


    Japan has refused any rumors that pertains to the unknown man and the news about Infinity completely covered up that news report that came out two months ago.


    Now, the EU/UK forces are stationed in Turkey and Russia is regrouping with them to finish the final job in Iraq¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    It¡¯s been 2 months since I began this campaign of useless shit. I am now currently leading the united front in Turkey and I am waiting for Russia to finalize our last operation where we will destroy the ISIS group in a cooperative land attack where our forces will destroy the ISIS country for good.


    I sat on my foldable chair as the Turkish weather beamed through the entrance of the tent. There were war reports scattered all over the table and multiple intelligence officers were reading and picking up ISIS messages from their intel comms. I grasp a select few of the papers and stared at the words that appeared¡­


    ¡°Haaa...it¡¯s been two long years, Abu Omar al-Shishani...I spared you because of your family...you manipulated my choice and indirectly violated one of my Shishou¡¯s laws...you are going to regret your decision from continuing¡­¡±


    I mumbled to myself as multiple dial-up sounds came from the terminal radio. The voice was mostly static and filled with dismembered sentences but I knew who that person was¡­


    ¡°Abu eh...finally moving out...even when you took control over the group...you are still the same...I will crush you..¡±


    As I talked to myself, one of the soldiers came and saluted in front of me¡­


    ¡°Mister Ichiro, the Russian military is here at our Forward Operating Base (FOB) Desert Dragon. President Vladimir Putin sends his regards and he is with the Russian Spetsnaz while they guard him. He is coming along with the russian forces to this base, Mister Ichiro¡±


    I returned my salute and dismissed the soldier that appeared in the main camp¡­


    ¡°So, He¡¯s here huh...I would like it if Vladimir putin will stop trying to recruit me again...I am going to be done with the military...at least for a while...I do not want to return to this hellhole for a long time...Anyways! Intelligence group-I36-FCB-ATL, what was that last transmission from Abu Omar...what is his next destination course..¡±


    ¡°Mister Ichiro, the Bad egg is currently in Mosul and he will be moving to his base in Baghdad but from our reports, there have been a lot of activity within Al Hillah. I would assume that Abu Omar knows about our intel and plans to thwart our plans by making a false destination. His destination is probably Al Hillah, Mister Ichiro.¡±


    ¡°I see...he is a sneaky rat but I want to end this soon...we will enter Baghdad and the Chinese forces will pummel themselves into Al Hillah. I want our united forces to strike together. Send out the information to General Xi¡¯Xiao of the Chinese force in Iran. We are going to do a cooperative strike from two sides and we will finalize everything in Baghdad after our forces fully subjugate the ISIS members. The U.S. forces will clean the southern border of Jordan and Saudi Arabia to make sure that none of the ISIS leaders escape from our strikes. Report everything to both General Xi¡¯Xiao and General Votell. I want our forces to attack tomorrow at 0300. I want them to rest hard and fast because we will destroy ISIS tomorrow¡­¡±


    I glare at the intelligence officers and they shivered in fear as they delivered my intel report to the other generals. I sensed Lina approaching the commander tent and I quickly disappear into the shadows¡­


    I cannot risk being near that woman...she will do everything to reveal my face...only her mother has seen it and now her mother is fawning over me...now her daughter too...what the hell...I will avoid her at full force!


    I quickly leave the premises and made my way to Robert¡¯s tent where I can finally hide in peace¡­


    ¡°Hey robert...yeah I am hiding again...even two months later...she will not give up...remember just 30 days ago, she tried to sneak into my tent when I was asleep...of course I was asleep but I could sense her presence...luckily...I did not get caught...I am quite weak against women and their attacks...why me...robert¡­¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know Ichiro...but luckily, she hasn¡¯t figured out that you hide in my tent...anyways, Ichiro...what will you do after we finish this war...I mean, I want us to keep in contact...it¡¯s not everyday you get to meet your savior...anyways, what will you do though?¡±


    ¡°Mhm..I plan to play a game¡­---¡±


    ¡°Game...you mean Infinity!!¡±


    Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    ¡°How...how do you know?¡±


    ¡°Ichiro...the world already knows about Infinity. Ever since two months ago after you massacred those ISIS members, Japan¡¯s corporation, Kurogane Inc released the game, Infinity, to the public. Everyone has been playing. There are a bunch of videos on KuroTube. I already had my wife order a family set so me and my family can play together!¡±


    ¡°Ah...I see...well..I hope no one recognizes me...well its not like they can...I always cover up so no one will know about me..¡±


    ¡°That reminds me...Ichiro...why do you cover yourself...is there something you need to hide or anything? Is your face like burnt off or something..?¡±


    ¡°No, I just don¡¯t want people recognizing who I am. Only two people know of my real identity and one of them is dead.¡±


    ¡°Oh...okay...I was going to see if we could play together but if you don¡¯t want to¡­¡±


    ¡°We can play together...but if we do...you cannot reveal how my appearance looks like...trust me...I will know if you reveal my identity to someone else...and if you do...I am afraid you must die. ¡°


    ¡°I see but I still want to know. I won¡¯t reveal your identity because you must have a reason for hiding it and I do not want to bring my savior trouble. I accept those consequences...I know your reputation, Black Dragon...I do not want to tarnish your trust!¡±


    ¡°Alright alright, Robert. When we¡¯re in game, just message me or I¡¯ll call you before I enter the game so we can exchange names¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, Ichiro. It would be best to read information online before actually playing the game. I don¡¯t know about you but many people were careless in the beginning and many starved to death or died by small creatures. It would be best to study about the game before entering it...this is just a tip from an Avid gamer!¡±


    ¡°Thank you..¡±


    The afternoon slowly became evening and everyone was changing shifts. Early morning there will be a slaughter and everyone is going to be active.


    Ichiro was sleeping and then someone snuck in¡­


    Normally, it would¡¯ve been Lina sneaking in but it was an unknown assailant. As the cold blade reaches near Ichiro, suddenly a swift blade appears from the covers and completely beheads the unknown assailant.


    Really...Abu Omar...you sent this pathetic bag of an assassin after my life...he smelled like blood and I could sense him a mile away¡­


    I inhale and exert my commanding voice to be heard throughout the FOB..


    ¡°LISTEN UP! THERE¡¯S AN ASSAILANT GROUP IN THIS BASE! WAKE UP AND KILL THESE SON OF A BITCHES! NOW YOU MAGGOTS!¡±


    Everyone immediately fired upon the assailant groups as they were stunned from the outburst from me.


    I look out my personal tent as the bodies being gathered in the center and I spoke to the soldiers¡­


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you glad I made you guys to keep your weapons closer. Now, I want these bodies buried. Medic corps and Unit 3, I want you all to gather these bodies and bury them in the sand. Don¡¯t worry, take a few men to keep guard. I am sure that this assailant group came alone but you can never be too sure. Now, everyone get back to sleep and don¡¯t worry...we¡¯re safe now..¡±


    I dismissed everyone as the bodies were being dragged away by the men that I ordered to do it. Many of the soldiers rushed back into their tents to wipe away the bloody mess and Vladimir Putin came up to me to talk¡­


    ¡°Ahh, the infamous Black Dragon...the one who took down my special forces with superb skill...the one who killed the african warlord, Alu Kah, the person that strikes fear into the hearts of men, the humanoid nuke...Mister Ichiro...It is a pleasure to meet you again.¡±


    ¡°Yes, President Vladimir. I heard when you came to our base this afternoon. I would have hoped to talk to you at the time but currently, I was busy at the moment so I could not. Please forgive my rudeness.¡±


    ¡°Bah! You are already forgiven! Actually, you haven¡¯t done anything wrong! You are a busy man and you have helped us dearly. I came now to speak to you to give my regards to your Master. He was a man that could not be messed with and time took him away. Lucky for the world, he passed his teachings onto you...now...Mister Ichiro...would you please reconsider joining my special forces...I want them to learn from the best¡­¡±


    ¡°President Vladimir...remember what I told you last time, 5 years ago...I cannot. I want to pursue my dreams of being free and my Shishou wants me to be free. I plan to live a free life after this stupid campaign...I am not going to return. Sorry, Mr. President.¡±


    ¡°Bah..Oh well. My offer still stands. You will receive the highest position under me and you will lead my army if you were to join...till then, I bid you good night, Mister Ichiro.¡±


    I looked at Vladimir¡¯s back as he turned away from me and headed off to the outer camps where the Russian forces are currently stationed at. I turn around and headed back to my personal tent and saw¡­¡­.her¡­


    ¡°Really Lina...WE ARE AT WAR!? WHY ARE YOU NAKED GAH!!! GET OUT!¡±


    ¡°Nooo~ Mister Ichiro! I don¡¯t have my clothes...you want me to leave the tent without anything...those men will ravish me¡­¡±


    ¡°GAH WHY DO I HAVE TO DO TO GET YOU TO LEAVE! WHY ARE YOU LIKE YOUR MOTHER!¡±


    ¡°Because! My mother told me stories about your heroism! Ever since I joined the military, when you saved my mother, I looked up to you. BUT, she saw your face once and fell in love again! I want to experience that too! Being a Commander will bring stupid unwanted attention and you are the only man that sees me differently! Mister Ichiro! I will not leave and if you force me too, I will be naked and you can watch those men devour me and knowing that you could¡¯ve prevented that! So what¡¯ll it be!¡±


    Lina screamed at her lungs as I looked at her...dumbfoundedly...what the hell am I going to do with this woman¡­


    ¡°FINE! Sleep there!¡±


    I turn around and I was about to leave when¡­


    ¡°If you leave! I will go outside naked and have the men take a turn on me!¡±


    GAH!? WHAT IS WITH THIS WOMAN! DOES SHE HAVE NO DELICACY! WHAT THE HELL!?


    ¡°GAH! WHATEVER! I will stay here then!! But, I am not sleeping with you! I am sleeping on the floor!¡±


    ¡°NOPE! You sleep next to me!¡±


    ¡°OMG! ARE YOU SERIOUS!?¡±


    ¡°Oho, is Mister Ichiro a virgin boy...is he afraid of a woman¡¯s body~¡±


    REALLY!! GAH THIS WOMAN IRRITATES ME!


    I RELUCTANTLY get into the bed and use the pillow as a bed divider but she clutches me from behind and hugs me..


    ¡°Mister Ichiro...you are so mysterious¡­¡±


    A few long minutes pass by and Lina eventually falls asleep. I completely ignored her questions but she was getting sleepy by the seconds. Lucky for me...is that she sleeps fast. Good thing too...I was getting tired of the questions...I am going to go sleep outside...my conscience won¡¯t last long if I sleep in her arms¡­


    I swiftly extract myself from Lina¡¯s arms and I quickly left the scene of the crime. I exited the tent and slept outside. I sat criss crossed and placed my katana on my lap then began to rest for 2 hours where I will wake up the entire base to begin operation¡­


    Tomorrow...it will finally end...


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Previous</a></td><td width="25%">Main</a></td><td width="25%">Next</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

 Ch 6: The end and the beginning...

    <table><tbody><tr><td>Breaking News!</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Hello, today on Japan-NHK Worldwide, our topic is going to be the game that took the world by storm. Amidst the turmoil and hardships of reality, there is an escape to everything!


    Since the release of Infinity two months ago, the world is clearly enjoying the success of the new reality. The concept of Infinity is to be free, become what you want to become and be the best at whatever you may choose. Infinity has truly changed the world and lately the country of Japan is currently rising up in the technology and economic charts as the game¡¯s country origin.


    Infinity is truly a new generation of technology and gaming in one package. The realism and impact of Infinity is surreal that people even proclaim the Infinity game as the real world. Of course, with the concept of Virtual Reality, there are infinite possibilities and with those possibilities there are evil choices but the Kurogane Inc has truly brought their game to everyone¡¯s expectations!


    With the world taken by storm by Infinity, today we have a guest star on set, he is the main character behind the scenes, the main protagonist that brought us this new reality...the man that made everything a possibility...Keiji Nakamura!


    Keiji: Ah, thanks for having me on the set, Ms. Inahara. It is a great honor to be on a news channel that is being broadcasted to the entire world!


    Inahara: So, CEO Nakamura---


    Keiji: Ah, no need for formalities, just call me Mr. Keiji, Ms. Inahara. I seem to hate formalities when discussing important topics.


    Inahara: Haha! So, Mr. Keiji is quite the humble man. Anyways, today we invited you onto the show so you could tell us more about the game. Is there anything that you would like to inform the world?


    Keiji: Yes. For starters, I know everyone likes Infinity because it is a fun game, yes but at the same time, I want to tell everyone this.. Infinity may be a game but it is also another Reality. If you were to treat Infinity as your world, you will see things more differently and you can fully experience the new world.


    Inahara: Such words from the man that brought Infinity to everyone! Before we go into the game clips of various players that experienced their first raid battle, Mr. Keiji, my sources stumbled upon a rumour that Infinity was created for a certain person. Will you be able to enlighten us about this person?


    Keiji: I guess I will have to enlighten everyone for a little while...As you may have found out secretly, this game was actually created for a certain someone. This someone has lived through reality but after coming so far, this person did not like the result of their so called ¡®reality¡¯. Whatever the result was, this person was fed up with reality so I took it upon using the best of my abilities and my resources to create this new world!


    Inahara: Aha! Who is this certain someone! Is it Mr. Keiji¡¯s secret fianc¨¦e!


    Keiji: No...I am still single, mind you¡­


    Inahara: Oho...so is Mr. Keiji looking for potential candidates...am I considered a choice¡­


    Keiji: A...hah...Ms. Inahara..it would be quite troublesome if things escalate from your words...but anyways, I created this game specifically for this certain person so that person can escape the chains of reality and become truly free!


    Inahara: And there you have! Mr. Keiji Nakamura! A round of applause! Now, let¡¯s go to the footage of the players¡­


    </td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Bzzzt¡­</td></tr></tbody></table>


    The Kurogane Corporation became an entirely new superpower over the course of two months since the release of their game, Infinity and the new technology breakthrough. The world is still engulfed in turmoil but thanks to the effort of the Infinity game and the constant military missions, the world is gradually returning back to normal.


    The ISIS members have begun to disband due to their leaders being killed and their hideouts being subjugated and bombed out of commission.


    Their territories have shrunk to the islamic state of Iraq and the united forces are going to finish the job¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    It was 0245, early in the morning at FOB Desert Dragon. The people were being rounded up and everyone quickly woke up. Multiple company commanders, platoon leaders and various officers were shouting orders for the soldiers to get into formation.


    Even as they shouted, they could not be careless. As the leaders delivered commands, they often snuck glances at the figure that was sitting outside of the tent in a criss cross position. Many of the new soldiers did not know who this person was but they could tell that they had to avoid this man. This man was radiating a powerful presence as others could sense his bloodlust.


    They shuddered in fear and no one would dare interrupt the man as he continued to sit in his resting position.


    Commander Bridge had already suited up and Commander Elis was preparing herself in the tent. She could feel the man¡¯s presence and she hurried up in order to avoid being yelled at.


    Commander Elis stormed out of the tent and some of the soldiers were about to laugh because she came out of another man¡¯s tent but they wouldn¡¯t dare make a peep because there was a man that could very easily kill them right outside the tent.


    As the entire military base continued to prepare, the forward attack unit had already set off to Iraq along with the air support unit as they will engage first.


    The Russian forces also combined with the military forces and everyone was in formation. The commanders were in their respected positions as they waited for the man that was in charge of all them.


    Suddenly, the pressure around them grew heavy and everyone saw the man that immediately stood up.


    With his Katana blade in his right hand, he walked with a commander¡¯s aura directly to the area where the commanders had gotten into position. With a swift walk, he stood in front of the commanders as they saluted him. The man placed his katana in his belt socket and returned the salute and the commanders did the same.


    The soldiers were in anticipation as they never experienced this kind of daunting pressure. The pressure of an entire legion of soldiers was being radiated from that single man. They watched and suddenly, the man¡¯s voice boomed over the entire base¡­


    ¡°TODAY! We will fight and end this pointless war! I will be fighting alongside everyone and I will make sure that we win this stupid war! Everyone, we¡¯ve made it this far in 2 months and today will be the end...SO LET¡¯S HEAD OUT!¡±


    The man yelled with such vigor that some of the leaders shuddered in fright and many flinched out of their position, losing their bearings¡­.


    Yes, this man was their leader, Ichiro¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    Looking over this brigade, I had fun times but I cannot guarantee that everyone will make it alive...this is why I hate war...pointless deaths are stupid and people should not give their lives...but I will fight together with these men..and end this war...so I can be free..from these chains¡­


    I salute everyone and the entire formation dispersed and everyone began to move out. It was exactly 0300 in the morning and many of the air support units had left FOB Desert Dragon with the forward unit.


    Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.


    I quickly made my way to the head of the entire formation and everyone entered their vehicle transportation. While at the head formation, a black AH-64 Apache Gunship had descended from the skies and the rest of the commanders got in the helicopter. I was the last one to enter the gunship and we immediately ascended into the sky and made our way towards Iraq¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    The world was focusing on Infinity but the countries were entirely depending on one man that lead the final action to stopping the world menace: ISIS.


    The entire Iraqi state (mainly Baghdad and Al Hillah) was bombed by multiple air strikes and invaded by multiple fronts. People were being killed as the entire state was filled with ISIS members.


    ISIS was being forced to resort to extreme measures but Ichiro¡¯s forces had already prevented them and killed the underground threats from exploding.


    At Al Hillah, in a square garden, there was a heavily armed man and another man holding a katana in the center¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    I see...Abu Omar al-Shishani..he wants to kill himself along with me¡­


    I quickly dismissed the other military personnels and left the entire square garden empty except for me and him.


    I look at him as he was swearing at me in arabic and I glared at him back¡­


    ¡°So, look at you now. You are a pathetic excuse for a father. After I spared you and your family...you abandoned them and became the ISIS leader...I should¡¯ve killed you a long time ago...but they would¡¯ve just elected a different leader...but now, I eliminated your entire force. They are either prisoners of war or they have already died...So Abu Omar...what is your choice?¡±


    ¡°Hah! You silly Jap! I bet you are working with that poor excuse of a leader, President Howard of the bullshit United States of America! I will not surrender! I would rather die than become a silly torture subject for your stupid army!¡±


    Abu Omar tensed his position and I looked at him menacingly. He wasn¡¯t afraid of death and I wasn¡¯t either but I wasn¡¯t going to die...not now, not ever¡­


    Before Abu Omar could move...time froze for me..


    I looked around and the air was still as if it was frozen. Abu Omar¡¯s body was frozen and did not move. This was Ryoma¡¯s¡­.Kurogane Clan¡¯s technique of subjugation. To encase the world still through the mind of the user...as the user perceives the world still, he will move faster than anything possible¡­


    Almost immediately, the world returned to normal and Abu Omar reached for his detonation but unfortunately for him, his limbs were cut off and the bomb was disarmed already by me.


    I look at his pathetic expression and Abu Omar screamed in pain as blood gushed out from his four limbs. His eyes were bulging out and snot guzzled out of his nostrils and he passed out. The medic unit heard the scream and immediately rushed to the area. They saw the gruesome state that Abu Omar was in and they looked at me in fear. I glared at them back and pointed them to leave. The medics left the area and I immediately began to finish my job¡­


    I raise my katana blade in a diagonal formation and I immediately behead Abu Omar and the screaming ended peacefully and the entire square garden was covered in blood. My black outfit was tarnished with blood and I carefully wiped my blade edge with a smooth cloth and immediately sheathed my weapon.


    I exit the garden and looked at the surrounding area.


    The buildings were half blown up and some portions were on fire but majority of the commanders and various officers gathered in front of the area where I was at.


    Commander Bridge and Commander Elis looked at me in astonishment as they saw the copious amount of blood on me and they saw the blood trail behind me.


    I looked at them and they immediately saluted me¡­


    Commander bridge spoke first¡­


    ¡°Sir, The world thanks you for your support! As the representative of the European military, I thank you on behalf of the European Union! Mister Ichiro, I know you will be leaving...but I hope we will meet again¡­¡±


    Commander Elis looked at me with expectant eyes but she saluted and spoke¡­


    ¡°Sir, on behalf of the United Kingdom, The Royal military would like to extend our thanks to you! Even then...Mister Ichiro...I-i...I would like to...ma-mar¡­¡±


    I looked at Lina and she was blushing but I immediately brushed off her words and looked at everyone¡­


    ¡°Listen...don¡¯t thank me...everyone did their job correctly...All I did was guide you...this is your victory...I would like if everyone were to forget me. I will be disappearing...also as a warning...if you intend to spread out rumours or information about me, I will find you and you might disappear too...anyways, I will be going!¡±


    A rope descended from the sky and everyone looked above.


    They saw a private escort helicopter with a mysterious emblem on the side. It was two katanas that crossed each other in a seal. The katanas were black and radiated a regal aura even though it was a simple emblem on the side of the helicopter.


    I grabbed the rope and I was immediately whisked away. I quickly climbed the rope using my expert dexterity and agility. I waved everyone good-bye and finally...I am going home¡­


    I quickly pull out my phone and made my call¡­


    *Drrring Drrring!


    ¡°Ahh, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe...everything is done...now...about our deal¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes. It is already installed. I already had contacted your agent and he already installed the Dive pod into your home and the game came with it¡­¡±


    ¡°Good..Now, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe...I want to make sure no one knows about me...either pay them off or I will kill them myself. This includes that news reporter, Elaine Amber of News channel 45.¡±


    ¡°Alright, Ichiro-kun...but before we end communications...are you sure you do not want to join the Japanese army...they could use a proper leader of fantastic achievements...we had already gained our---¡±


    ¡°I already know about the proposal you made during the Summit Meeting, Prime Minister. But, my decision is already made. Just like Vladimir Putin had suggested to me, I will give you the same answer...I will have to refuse. I will not return to the military...I am already done with everything...now...I am going to return home and enjoy my new life¡­¡±


    *Click!


    I hung up before Shinzo Abe could respond and I look down below as the Iraqi state was no longer being bombed but everything was being seized and multiple military groups could be seen running about.


    I close the helicopter door hatch and finally began to sleep for the ride back home¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    The world had regained peace once again. Many people would give thanks to the military forces of the world but the world leaders and various commanders knew the real reason why peace even available...and that was thanks to the Black Dragon¡­


    It was late midnight in Japan and a large helicopter rotor could be heard above a neighborhood in Niigata. Many of the Japanese citizens wondered what happened that night as they clearly heard a helicopter but there was no evidence of one being there.


    A certain house had lit up in the middle of the night and finally...a new story of adventure is starting...


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Previous</a></td><td width="25%">Main</a></td><td width="25%">Next</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

 Ch 7: The Drop

    After the Iraqi state was engulfed by the united forces, the world was finally at peace. Eventually, the world leaders created a sanction hold on the Middle East territory in order to prevent any sort of backlash due to the ISIS group being terminated.


    The people were in uproar because the world had attained peace finally.


    Now, they can devote their time to rebuilding the world and enhancing the next generation to produce better results.


    At this time, not only the world attained peace but now they are focusing on building technology and at the spearhead of this technology boom is the world¡¯s number one technology company, Kurogane Inc.


    They¡¯ve created an initial burst of new tech that can enhance the everyday lives of the entire planet. With the Full Dive technology, they¡¯ve already begun to create machinery that can be operated through the brain to implement full safety and also accelerate the production rate of whatever project they are working on. This technology not only saves time, it is also creating a burst of technology to rise from the ground.


    Even the infamous space project is starting to shift gears and Kurogane Inc is also at the head of that Space project. The Space Project will allow the human race to expand into the reaches of space and eventually make another world. Planet Earth is slowly declining as the resources are being depleted due to the war with ISIS and the efforts of everyday life.


    While the world is celebrating the end of ISIS, the Kurogane Corporation has not yet stopped to enjoy the peacetime. They are nearing a breakthrough and first they need their first tester to test the 2nd generation specialized Dive pod that will fully transfer a person¡¯s body into the new realm of the game, Infinity.


    This technology is still in the planning phase and the test subject can also die during the experiment¡­.


    The first tester is the Black Dragon..


    ¡­


    ¡­


    As I arrived home after a long flight travel from the Middle East, I successfully rappel down the rope and enter my backyard of my home in Niigata.


    My garden was kept clean as they¡¯ve been watered every day. My tea tree is continuing to bloom happily in the night sky and my vegetable garden is kept tidy...Seems like Takashi had kept my place running good these past 2 months¡­


    Yes, Takashi was my agent but more so like my assistant. He is my agent that handles my personal business like taking care of my home and my pets. He does not know about my personal history as I am from the Nakamura clan. Takashi knows that I am the Black Dragon but he does not know of my personal background. He is faithful and he is one of the people that I trust outside of my family.


    Takashi lives with me on the second floor but while he is my agent, he is also my alternate solution. I nicknamed him the ¡°Sweeper¡± because he cleans up the people that I want to get rid of. Normally, I could¡¯ve done it but after countless times of making people disappear, I got annoyed with the whole mess so I let Takashi handle everything. He is also my informant that delivers me information from the world before anyone knows about it. I gave him my security clearance from every country in the world so aside from me, he is the one that knows the world¡¯s secrets.


    I gaze at my garden and walk to my backdoor. I swiftly unlocked the door and enter the room. It was dark as there was no light but I knew someone was in there. I recognized this familiar presence but its been several years since I saw this person...I immediately turn on the lights and saw my younger brother¡­


    Yes, my brother Keiji...He was sitting in the dark, waiting for my arrival after he heard about the end of ISIS and I can guess that Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told him where my house was located at¡­


    I smile at my younger brother who was tearing up from the reunion¡­


    ¡°So..my little brother..What brings you here to my home?¡±


    ¡°Aniue!! WHERE HAVE YOU BEEEEEEEN!!!¡±


    Keiji immediately runs up and tackles me. Normally, I would¡¯ve stopped anyone from charging at me but this was my little brother. Even if he is a few inches shorter than me, he is big enough to charge me down.


    I embrace my little brother and pat him on the head..


    ¡°Haha, Sorry that I haven¡¯t been in contact these years..I knew you kept tabs on me until I disappeared 2 years ago..So, how is the family? How¡¯s Hana-chan and mom and dad¡±


    ¡°*sob* they¡¯re doing fine! I¡¯ve been waiting Aniue! I was worried that something happened to you but I am glad everything is done now...I know about what the Prime Minister did to you..He should die for bringing you back into the battlefield!¡±


    ¡°Now now...Don¡¯t worry about that. I got a neat treat for taking care of the ¡°garbage¡±.¡±


    ¡°Hai..I wanted you to experience my new game, Aniue! I created everything because you had been living a life of turmoil...after training and going off into the world...subjugating and taking care of the trash..I wanted to give you a present after all these years...years of taking care of me and sis...I created a world for you to enjoy, Aniue!!¡±


    ¡°Hai hai...Thank you my little brother. Now, tell me the reason why you are here.¡±


    ¡°Ah, Aniue! The reason I came here was because of the 2nd generation Dive pod that you are getting! WHY DID YOU ACCEPT THAT ANIUE!? YOU MIGHT DIE DURING THE PROCESS!!!¡±


    ¡°Yeah yeah, I know. I already read the information about your ¡®secret¡¯ project on the flight over here. Still, I want to experience it. Where my body will enter the world fully...this truly is a new technology¡­¡±


    ¡°Aniue! THIS TECHNOLOGY IS DANGEROUS!¡±


    ¡°I know but I still want to try entering that world. If I die then it means that my body wasn¡¯t ready and I am willing to accept that consequence of losing my life and don¡¯t worry...I haven¡¯t done much with my life...I haven¡¯t gotten married or met any loved ones yet...so if I do die...no one should miss me...and if I do, you have to take care of our parents and Hana-chan. Also, do not tell them about what I am about to do because even if I left, Mom and Dad are still heartbroken and they wouldn¡¯t be able to handle the stress of what I am about to do.¡±


    ¡°An-aniue!! Don¡¯t do it---¡±


    ¡°Keiji..listen to me...Let me do this. I already steeled my resolve and you must watch over my decision. If I die, don¡¯t tell our parents until Hana-chan gets married. If she¡¯s married then they¡¯ll be happy and then you can tell them of my death. Also, if you get married before Hana-chan, then of course you can tell them. I want them to be happy as proud parents first before they even find out about their first son¡¯s death. Now, look at me Keiji. Stop crying. You are an adult so start acting like it!¡±


    I patted my little brother on shoulder and his eyes were bloodshot from his tears¡­


    ¡°Aniue...I am going to miss you. If anything happens, I will do everything that you say...Ichi-niisan...I hope everything is a success for you...I know you¡¯ve wanted to be free for a long time¡­¡±


    I smile at Keiji because it¡¯s been a long time since he¡¯s called me that...My little brother...please take care of everything if I disappear¡­


    ¡°Haha, alright. But before I do anything, did you see Takashi here, Keiji?¡±


    ¡°Ah, your agent...No I did not see her--I mean him around¡­¡±


    Her...what does Keiji mean by her...maybe he might be confused by another person...Takashi is my confidant..oh well..


    ¡°I see..well, let¡¯s get some food to eat and I¡¯ll review some online stuff about your game, Keiji.¡±


    ¡°Alright! I miss Aniue¡¯s cooking!¡±


    ¡°Haha okay! What do you want for today.. My gourmet special, Broiled crab legs with Sake and Suzu Kosho Sabayon! or a special Ginger Pork dish with my variety sauce!¡±


    ¡°Snow crab! Please aniue! I want some snow crab! It¡¯s really hard to get fresh snow crab in Tokyo¡­¡±


    ¡°Haha alright!¡±


    I smiled at Keiji who was happy to eat one of my dishes.


    Before I even cut anything, I sharpened my knives and then I finally begin to cook...


    I quickly prep the frozen snow crab and prepare my kitchen to be used. I took out my authentic crafted custom chef knife and began to chop the vegetables that I had already prepared. I will be making a vegetable side dish and while doing so, the sticky rice will be cooking in the process. The vegetable dish is already being prepped and the crabs are going to be broiling at the same time.


    I quickly whip out my traditional sake that I homebrewed and I began to pour the mixture along with the other ingredients. With the ginger, lime juice and sake mixing in, I began to prep the egg yolk and whisking the remaining ingredients.


    While doing so, the crab legs are being broiled to a perfect temperature and it was nearing completion.


    I mix the Yuzu Kosho and salt until mixed with the other ingredients and I continue to watch over the broiling crab legs.


    Soon, the legs were done and the rice has yet to be done.


    Next, I prepare some more side dishes and even prepare some miso soup to eat with the crab legs.


    Keiji was infatuated with the smell as it engulfed the entire room with a citrus/crabby smell. It was quite flavorful as Keiji¡¯s mouth was watering from anticipation and even Takashi came down from the second floor as he was smelling the wonderful aromas from above. Takashi sat across from Keiji on a cushioned chair and Keiji was laughing inside¡­


    Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.


    ¡®I wonder if Aniue...nah He still hasn¡¯t figured out that Takashi is actually a female...Aniue always refers Takashi as a male...but her name is actually Hiromi Tanaka...oh well..I wonder what expression he¡¯ll have when he finds out that Takashi is a female hehehe!¡¯


    I look at the area where Takashi sat at and where Keiji was sitting at too. I smiled at the two and continued to prepare my dishes.


    I made sure to prepare a third set for Takashi as he came down. I sensed him being here but it was surprising that Keiji came into my house without seeing Takashi...oh well.


    I made three dishes of Broiled crab legs and called those two to my dining table so everyone could eat together.


    As usual, Takashi would sit across from me because he seems a bit shy. I don¡¯t know...maybe I smell...well, I didn¡¯t shower yet since I just got here...I will have to shower after this¡­


    Keiji sat next to me and finally we spoke in unision¡­


    ¡°Itadakimasu!¡±


    ¡­


    ¡°Itadakimasu!¡±


    ¡­


    ¡°Ita..daki..masu¡­¡±


    All three of us said our respective words and began to eat the food that I cooked. Takashi was still emotionless but he had a slight aura of glee as he ate the food. Keiji was devouring my home cooked food because he says it is so much better than those gourmet chefs that were hired for his restaurant.


    I smile at the surrounding environment because it was completely contrast from what happened 18 hours ago in the Middle East. I really enjoy this peaceful environment...a life of bloodshed and meaningless deaths is so stupid...I prefer to live a life of harmony with my family¡­


    After eating, Takashi bid farewell to me and Keiji and went to his room on the second floor. I look at Keiji and spoke¡­


    ¡°Alright! Let¡¯s check online about this game you created, little brother!¡±


    ¡°Ah! Aniue! No! Let me tell you the basics! It would be much funner if you did not know anything about Infinity before entering the game!¡±


    ¡°Fine fine...I guess Robert wouldn¡¯t mind if I did not know anything...he could just teach me in the game...anyways, what are these basics¡­?¡±


    ¡°Okay! Aniue, if this succeeds, then you will enter the continent of Elreim. It is the middle continent and also the continent that majority of the world will be starting in. When you first enter the state of virtualization...wait...you have a 2nd generation...well, I do not know what will happen in the initial phase when you start up because it is still experimental...but when starting out...you still enter a world where you can do practically what you want! Of course, you need the necessary skills and stats to perform the actions you want! Just like a game!¡±


    ¡°Ah..like those old school MMORPG games?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Aniue! Also, the concept/goal of the game is to become the ruler of the continent BUT there is a reason why I made the world...because it is truly a world that can expand to infinite possibilities...and with those possibilities Aniue...one can actually venture off into space...no one knows this...but the Infinity Game is literally another world that we are continuing to gaze upon. That world is going to be our destination...this secret is something I only know because I was the one who discovered it...in Infinity...it is a new world and we¡¯re going to make the 2nd and 3rd generation Dive pods to be able to transfer the citizens of Earth to Infinity...that world is constantly expanding...and people still do not know that the game can change immensely if you were to play it like real life...already, some people are beginning to change their game flow as they took my advice...but Aniue...I know you will be able to change that world...you already changed this one...so, I want you to enjoy that world...whether you change it or not...It is entirely up to you, Aniue¡­¡±


    ¡°Hummm...I see, well this is exciting in a sense. The resources are abundant in that world so people can achieve things that they could not do here...it certainly is a new world, Little brother...I can¡¯t wait to try the game...oops, I mean the new world...one with infinite possibilities¡­¡±


    ¡°Aniue...please be safe...the 2nd generation dive pod is still experimental and you will experience everything at 100% capacity...because your actual body will be transferring to that world¡­¡±


    ¡°I see...well, Keiji..you don¡¯t have to worry...I will continue to move on! ah, I will shower first. So, Keiji you can wait until I am done...I am guessing you are going to stay here for today--¡±


    ¡°Ichi-niisan, I am going to live with you whether you like it or not. As your little brother and the head leader in the 2nd generation project, I will watch over you...Aniue¡­¡±


    ¡°Fine fine! Just take the other room beside Takashi¡¯s room on the second floor. There¡¯s nothing in there. I am gonna go shower before we get this little experiment going!¡±


    I look at my little brother and I patted him on the shoulder and quickly made my way to the shower. On the way, I grabbed my training garb to wear because it would be weird to enter the new world with bloodstained clothes¡­


    Well, entering the world with a training garb is weird in itself but it¡¯s better than going into a world in a military uniform or in a business outfit...and I don¡¯t want to enter that world with my gear either¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    After showering and scrubbing my body from the bloody mess, I dressed up in my training garb and headed to the room where the Dive pod is located at.


    Near the pod, there was a informational projector and multiple cords that were linked with the Dive pod. Keiji was sitting on a desk chair next to the project with a white lab coat. His appearance was more manly and quite serious.


    It¡¯s good that my brother takes this serious.


    The dive pod had various lights flickering as Keiji was beginning the startup of the Dive pod. He looked at me and smiled¡­


    ¡°Aniue, are you ready?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Let¡¯s go.¡±


    I quickly assess my body for any impartial thing but everything was fine. I entered the capsule-like dive pod and Keiji was waving at me behind the pod¡¯s door on the otherside. I smiled at him and closed my eyes as Keiji was beginning the initial phase of the ¡®Drop¡¯.


    As I sit in the capsule, there were various clicks that came from outside but suddenly, everything went silent. I opened my eyes but all I saw was utter darkness. It was a void-like space where nothing existed. Its as if my conscience was floating in a realm of darkness.


    I constantly looked around and found nothing.


    I was literally floating in nothing and I could not hear anything. My senses were feeling dull as if something was nullifying everything around me.


    I wanted to know what was going on as I started into the darkness but nothing happened.


    Time was irrelevant there but lucky, I had my internal clock. Several hours had passed yet nothing happened. I was beginning to think that I had died. If I were to float in this void space for eternity...eventually, I would go crazy¡­


    I began to shake in terror as the darkness had consumed me. I could not do anything but then...a voice could be heard¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Initial Phase complete


    Body scan complete


    Mind transfer complete


    Matter transfer complete</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Bzzzt¡­</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>The body scan has detected that you are an unregistered user. With the capabilities of the 2nd generation Dive pod, would you like to register?</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">YES</td><td width="25%">NO</td></tr></tbody></table>


    Yikes, this is weird but I guess I¡¯ll follow this voice...this weird panel appeared in front of me...I should choose yes...even though I¡¯ve been in this void for several hours...it feels great to hear a voice aside from mine¡­


    I selected the option, YES and everything flashed white¡­


    As I stood in the white void, there was a floating panel that said the words¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Welcome to Infinity, where the world is up to you. With infinite possibilities, you can become anything you want.</td></tr></tbody></table>


    ¡°Welcome to Infinity...haha...everything worked¡­¡±


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Previous</a></td><td width="25%">Main</a></td><td width="25%">Next</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

 Ch 8: Bad start...?

    During the initial phase, known as the Drop, Keiji had been monitoring the computer and the capsule that had analyzed his brother.


    After the initial phase, Keiji watched as the capsule light up in a blinding flare. He couldn¡¯t do anything as nothing showed up and the body of his older brother had vanished.


    He managed to relax because it was the transferring phase but after a while, he began to worry. Keiji began to scribble down notes and watched as the computer modules ding in a multitude of sounds that were incomprehensible but it was a sign that things were progressing but still, Keiji worried.


    Keiji¡¯s body began to shake at the thought of explaining things to his parents that his older brother--Their first born child had been erased from existence but he worried more about his sister.


    He knew that his sister, Hana Nakamura had adored Ichiro just like he was. He could not bring it to himself that he would tell the news to his sister.


    Hana had a ¡®issue¡¯ of the sort and Keiji knew about it. That issue was a bit complex since it literally was a brother-complex.


    During the times that his brother stayed with them, Hana would always have that bewitching gaze as she looked at her brother, Ichiro. Normally, it would¡¯ve been disclosed as just a high brotherly love but Keiji knew it was much more.


    The reason he thought it was more was of two reasons.


    The first reason was that Hana would always reserve herself. Even though many potential suitors had approached her, she denied everyone. Even the many suitors were of handsome degree and many were wealthy but she refused. At often times, she would gaze at her brother¡¯s picture during the times that he was gone. Her face became flustered everytime she gazed at her brother¡¯s eyes and Keiji knew it all.


    In fact, he didn¡¯t mind it at all because he, too loved his brother just not in a romantic way of course.


    Keiji would always compare himself to his brother because he saw his brother as the epitome of honor and respect. Ichiro would always display himself in a cool manner and with an elegant demeanor.


    It was quite shocking that his brother hadn¡¯t married yet but those reasons were unknown.


    The second reason would be that Hana pulled a stunt that shouldn¡¯t have been done. No, not the sexual kind but she had aimed for that opportunity as she snuck into the very bedroom of her dear older brother.


    The reason for her actions was because her brother, Ichiro, had gotten himself a girlfriend.


    During the time that their brother stayed with them, Aniue would always attend his lessons like an obedient child and go to school properly. At the time, Keiji knew that Ichiro would attract unwanted attention as his brother was very handsome.


    With an elegant demeanor, cool posture and a calm personality, the girls would often swoon at him. Although, I knew about my brother was having a relationship, Hana did not.


    It was quite a secret to the family but Ichiro had gotten himself a total of 4 girlfriends. Not at the same time, but he dated 4 girls during his time in high school. However, Hana did not find out until the 4th one arrived at our house.


    Yes, the 4th one was a girl that was acquainted with our family. She was our older brother¡¯s childhood friend and also one of the people that had taken care of us when we were little.


    At first, Hana smiled at the fact that Aniue¡¯s childhood friend--Kanako had came to visit, she came while interlocking arms with Aniue.


    Hana¡¯s expression went downhill. Her expression was being forced to maintain itself and luckily, Kanako did not sense the disturbance but Aniue did.


    After that day, I knew that my sister held feelings for Aniue.


    Even to the point where she rejoiced after hearing about the breakup between Aniue and Kanako.


    So, my sister holds a lot of feelings for Aniue and it would destroy her to find out that the very same existence that she loves, actually died.


    ¡­


    ¡­


    Keiji grimaced at the future since he had to explain everything that happened.


    He shivered at the thought and before he knew it, 5 hours had passed.


    When the time passed, the monitor began to display the scanning processes and everything had filed through. After the Matter scanning process, Keiji screamed in happiness¡­


    ¡®Yes! Aniue made it! I don¡¯t know why it took so long but Aniue made it!!¡¯


    After rejoicing, he immediately made a backup drive for the information log that appeared on the screen. He began to finalize the final process and input the data onto a separate drive that he could bring back to his lab.


    Keiji took out his cellphone.


    The cellphone was an entirely new device that was capable of enabling a full video transfer and with no lag in between.


    He immediately dialed for his lab and one of the technologists answered and began to display the entire video onto the screen which displayed every single scientist in the room.


    Keiji looked at every single person and spoke¡­


    ¡°It¡¯s a success¡­!!¡± Keiji smiled and the scientists cheered in glee.


    After making a few orders, Keiji hung up his phone and began to head to his room as he felt sleepy after staying up for 5 hours after worrying about his brother.


    ¡­


    ¡­


    ¡°Welcome to Infinity...haha...everything worked¡­¡±


    I smiled and laughed in the surrounding white plane.


    The window that displayed the words disappeared and suddenly a female voice raptured from the area.


    It sounded as if she was everywhere yet she spoke as if she were in front of me.


    I take a deep breath to awe at the immense technology that my brother had created and began to focus on the words¡­


    ¡°Hello Adventurer, Welcome to Infinity where possibilities are truly infinity. Please create your name and we can proceed to the next phase of your creation!¡±


    The female seemed to have beamed her words at me but I took it as a customary introduction to the start of the game.


    A window appeared allowed me to select my name or generate a random choice from the options¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''4''>Please create your name</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">[>_______]</td><td width="25%">[Random]</td></tr></tbody></table>


    Hmm, a name...I wonder if people stole my nickname..


    ¡°Black Dragon¡±


    ¡°The name has already been taken. Please choose another name or choose a random selection.¡±


    Grrr...I wonder who stole it...I think I will kill that person if I see him or her. Even though I hate the nickname...no one should steal my identity without at least asking¡­.


    I wonder what name...Black Dragon...Ichiro is my actual name so no...Tetsu...Kurogane...Aha! I¡¯ll use my nickname from when I was a kid¡­!!


    ¡°Kuroichi¡±


    ¡°The name is available. Please confirm.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Kuroichi is my name.¡±


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">[Kuroichi has been selected]</td></tr></tbody></table>


    The window flashed my name and disappeared. The female voice began to talk again.


    ¡°Welcome again, Kuroichi. Since this is an early stage development, we will be adding your physical and mental attributes into the game. This is all due to the 2nd generation Dive technology that you came in.¡±


    Wow...This A.I. is quite intelligent. I would¡¯ve expected that the A.I. would¡¯ve dismissed me as a normal adventurer but it did not. Instead, it recognized that I was a new adventurer that came through a 2nd generation pod...interesting...I will have to check up more on my little brother¡­


    ¡°Due to a full body/matter scan, we have implemented your real-life stats and physical attributes.¡±


    A blinding light enveloped me and I was confused during the process.


    After the light show, everything was normal and I felt normal. I began to touch my body to feel any discrepancies but it was the same. The female A.I. continued to speak from all directions¡­


    ¡°You will be able to view your stats once you are fully in the game.¡±


    Ahh, I see...Can this A.I. read my mind...probably can since my entire existence was transported here...Oh well.


    ¡°Adventurer, you will now choose from the 6 playable races. More races are due to be unlocked however these 6 are currently available.¡±


    6 figures appeared in front of me. All with my features but with their race-specific looks.


    I look at the six figures and each of them had names that seem to be the names of the races. I wanted to look at them closely, but the female A.I. continued to speak¡­


    ¡°These six races, starting from the left are the Elves, Humans, Dwarves, Barbarians, Draconians and Beastmen. They all have their advantages and disadvantages. Starting from the Elves, they have---!!¡±


    Before she continued to speak, I interrupted the A.I. while apologizing for my rude behavior.


    ¡°I apologize for interrupting but I will choose human.¡±


    Yes, A human. They clearly are the neutral type. They may not be strong like the Draconians and the Barbarians or the magical might of the elves but they¡¯ve got adaptability...and also I don¡¯t want to deal with the natural order of things...I¡¯d rather be normal and enjoy my ¡°new life¡± in the game.


    So, a human was the obvious choice. Even from looking afar, you could tell that the elves had high magic aptitude, the Dwarves specializing in craftmanship, Barbarians with their berserker strength, Draconians with their high strength and speed and the beastmen that are powerful in their own right. However, a human is neutral.


    Humans are the neutral factor in majority games but they have a compelling factor that many choose...It¡¯s because they can become anything they want¡­


    The A.I. paused for a bit after hearing my interruption and continued¡­


    ¡°Okay, A human. Would you like to customize your features?¡±


    A full stark naked body of me appeared in front of me. My black hair was getting longer because I had left the scene of the military however I still have a multitude of battle scars. Scars that evident from slashes and even gun wounds were visible.


    I looked at my body and it reminded me of the memories that came with the price. Those hardships I endured¡­


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    Each scar reminded me of the path I chose¡­


    I shook my head and spoke out loud..


    ¡°I¡¯ll keep my appearance as is¡±


    The full naked body of me disappeared and everything went back to normal. I started to feel if anything changed but it was the same.


    The A.I. spoke again¡­


    ¡°Now, please choose your destination, or choose a random location on the Elreim Continent.¡±


    ¡°Random, please¡±


    Yeah...I don¡¯t have any clue what city was available since my little brother told me to experience everything as something new...Oh well...I hope my luck is good because I don¡¯t want to appear in a volcano...


    ¡°Alright, Adventurer Kuroichi, your new world is starting. A tale of infinite possibilities! May the gods be forever in your favor!¡±


    The voice disappeared and suddenly my entire body was enraptured in a blinding light.


    My body felt as if it were free falling. It reminded me of the pararescue missions that I attended overseas when I was deployed in dangerous countries. Without anything to hold onto, I continued to descend as I could not see anything but the blinding light.


    Suddenly, I felt the ground. It wasn¡¯t a hard landing but it felt rough since I was falling for quite some time.


    ¡°Ahhh, glorious ground. I will not leave you anymore.¡±


    I spoke to myself and began to notice the area that I was in.


    Normally, I would¡¯ve been in a starting city or village but this clearly wasn¡¯t anything of the sort. If anything, it was more of a palace that had gold written all over it. The palace shined in a golden light. The light began to reflect around the room and I noticed that I wasn¡¯t by myself.


    Quickly assessing the situation, I sensed the other individual that was in the vicinity.


    Directly in front of me, there stood a figure that had a godly aura that sat on a golden throne. His stature was overbearing as the figure was emitted a omnipotent aura. His clothes were smooth and made of expensive cloth and I noticed the man had a sword next to him.


    My eyes were moving around as I continued to observe my encounter and suddenly, my eyes met with his.


    He had a commanding look as if it were duplicating my own..


    I glare back at him and he was astonished.


    The man continued to glare at me but I was obviously winning in the contest as my commanding aura was much more evident that his. It seems that everything from reality had transferred here¡­


    As the man gave up, I had won the contest. The man returned to his calm expression and began to talk...well..he laughed¡­


    ¡°Hahahaha!! I have never met someone so cheeky like you! I like you! None of the adventurers could amount to you! I was lucky to have taken you into my lair before you went to the Elreim continent!¡±


    I was astonished¡­THEN WHY THE HELL AM I HERE!?


    As if he could read my mind, he laughed again.


    ¡°AHAHA!! You are funny! You are now my student!! I will train you to become a god amongst your feeble adventurers!¡±


    Wait...what...Uh no...I cannot accept this.


    I blurt out.


    ¡°I refuse. ¡°


    As I retorted, the man¡¯s expression went grim and he glared at me.


    ¡°WHY! I WILL MAKE YOU INTO A GOD!! YOU WILL BE MY CHAMPION!!¡±


    ¡°I still will have to refuse. I refuse to learn under a new master. It would disrespect my master even in death.¡±


    ¡°WHAT!? BECAUSE OF THAT!? NO! YOU WILL BE MY NEW STUDENT REGARDLESS OR NOT!¡±


    The man bellowed in a ferocious roar.


    I admit, I got terrified at the roar since it shook the entire place but I will stand my ground!


    ¡°Even if you get mad, I will have to refuse!¡±


    ¡°GRRRR I OUGHT TO KILL YOU THEN!¡±


    The man lifted his arm and the air around the palace room began to shift different. It was foreboding as the air around me began to chill faster and faster.


    My body was feeling tense at the situation because I did not fucking expect a grandmaster shaolin magician god to get angry at me!?


    Well, I don¡¯t know if the man was a grandmaster or any type of martial artist but however, he had that godly aura and seems like he is using a magic spell¡­


    My body froze shut in a giant ice cap and the man was still furious.


    Immediately, warning signs came onto my vision..


    The ice was melting fast and there was a circle beneath my feet that had hot boiling lava that was devouring the ice fast.


    I quickly use my internal energy to channel a force around my body. It was a martial secret that was used by many masters in real life.


    The ability was to channel your chi, the energy that lives within you, to your outside body. It allows the practitioner to increase their body limits and overcome certain obstacles.


    After my body was wrapped in internal energy, I immediately began to channel it onto the ice cap that was began to melt from below. The ice was cracking and I smashed myself out of the area, away from the lava.


    The man was baffled but he grinned as he was going to continue.


    ¡°I AM NOT DONE WITH YOU!!¡±


    The man roared again but this time, I immediately jet myself towards the door that I saw during the freezing expedition.


    I immediately opened the door and a blinding light wrapped me and I continued to descend further as the light blinded me.


    ¡­


    ¡­


    As Ichiro left, the man laughed as he continued to sit on the throne¡­


    ¡°Hahaha!! Run for now, my champion! Your destiny has already been determined! You will not escape my grasp! None shall dare...for I am the almighty¡­[Kami-sama]¡±


    The man laughed as the palace shined in a golden light and began to disappear into a blur¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    Suddenly, my body stopped falling and I appeared in a city¡­


    A bunch of players gawked at my sudden appearance but they continued to do their own business. They saw me as a regular noob that had finally joined the ranks of Infinity..


    Well, I am a noob player...but I am not exactly gonna seek to become the strongest because...I am the strongest...in the world that is...anyways¡­


    This world feels so real¡­


    I began to feel upon the ground that I laid on. It was a cobblestone path that was in the center of the city. The cobblestone path connected with various routes but the major thing was that I appeared directly in front of the City¡¯s fountain.


    The fountain had a beautiful stone woman that was pouring water from her pitcher. The scene was harmonic as the birds chirped from the stone woman¡¯s shoulder and the wind whistled along with the sweet melody¡­


    Suddenly, a group of players bumped into me while I was enjoying the harmony..


    ¡°Watch it, noob!¡±


    A man that was heavily equipped with iron armor spoke above me. I look at his face and he had a rich-boy flair to his appearance. On his right, he held a iron broadsword that could very kill me and behind him were two goonies.


    His goons were similar to him and they seemed a bit arrogant but I¡¯ll just play it cool...don¡¯t want to get animosity on the first day..


    ¡°Sorry. I was just watching that fountain. Please can you be mindful of your surroundings and walk appropriately.¡±


    I beckoned at the swordtrio.


    The leader of the group twitched in anger and gripped me by my beginner collar¡­


    ¡°Ara! A pesky noob is telling me what to do!? Ah!?¡±


    I look at him but I wasn¡¯t irritated at him, just annoyed.


    ¡°Please release me or I might do something that YOU will regret.¡±


    My eyes were entirely focused on the man and he twitched from fear.


    Instead of backing off, the leader began to shout which gathered quite the crowd of adventurers and NPCs around.


    A half circle was formed at the base of the fountain and everyone was whispering in the crowd¡­


    ¡°Hey...is that the Sword trio..they are level 14...all three of them...they are pretty strong¡±


    ¡°I feel sorry for that newbie...he was just watching the birds¡­¡±


    ¡°Wow...A fight!¡±


    ¡°Duel!¡±


    ¡°Duel!¡±


    Players began to chant and the NPCs continued their gossip.


    I look at the area and my expression was irritated now. I quickly regained my stature and grabbed the Sword trio¡¯s leader by the face. My entire palm was gripping his entire face and people grimaced at the shuttering sounds that came from the leader¡¯s face.


    The man began to scream and my grip grew stronger and I looked at him and his two goons one last time..


    ¡°Now...since you irritated me this time...I don¡¯t know if I should kill you...but I am a kind man so I will let you go...but before you go, give me your money...or else I will have to kill you..¡±


    The two goons were shuddered in fear as their leader was being done in by a noob player.


    The crowd continued to grow and my grip began to draw blood from the leader¡­


    What the hell...these stupid people are attracting too much people...I need to leave...forget the money¡­


    I immediately tossed the leader that continued to squeal in pain towards the two. They were shocked but I quickly used the distraction as my getaway.


    Everyone was watching the strong warrior was being flung away but then, they noticed that I had disappeared.


    Luckily, no one had recorded anything and I managed to get away¡­


    This is one hell of a start up...First that female A.I. that could read my mind...that geezer that tried to bring me under his tutelage...and now those annoying three players...whatever..let¡¯s look at those stats¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Previous</a></td><td width="25%">Main</a></td><td width="25%">Next</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

 Ch 9: Diedrich and the stats

    ¡­


    ¡­


    My name is Diedrich Baldwin. I come from a wealthy family and recently purchased the new game, Infinity. I saw the videos and I knew I had to become the best and create the guild to rule over everyone.


    So, I contacted my two friends and we began the start of our adventure.


    After playing the game, Infinity, for several weeks, we had already established ourselves in the starting city. All the NPCs bow under our strength except for a few others like the king¡¯s guards and the training instructor but majority of the NPCs know about us.


    Just recently, the players began to hear rumors and our fame spread. It felt good and people began to worship us. We may be level 14 but none of the players in the starting city had reached level 10 but us? We¡¯re all level 14. The players normally wouldn¡¯t dare do anything to upset us until this one day¡­.


    I was walking in the city¡¯s center cobble path and suddenly I saw a new player appear in a bright light. I told my friends to watch this so I can swindle the new player¡¯s starting money. If I started a fight with him, no one would dare go against me and I can get a few coppers from the noob.


    I purposely bumped into him and to make him fear me, I glared at him¡­


    ¡°Watch it, noob!¡±


    Haha, my intimidation skill most definitely will come into play. I used it on the city¡¯s NPCs to obtain a cheaper discount but it also can be used against people that are weaker than me!


    Suddenly, the noob player responded in a beckoning tone. It was a bit reprimanding but it pissed me off¡­


    ¡°Sorry, I was just watching that fountain. Please can you be mindful of your surroundings and walk appropriately.¡± - He says


    I was a bit irritated that I dismissed my sword and gripped the noob player by the collar to instill fear into him. He was wearing the newbie outfit and didn¡¯t have anything but initial items that you get from the start. Although I gripped his collar, I could not lift the noob into the air. I¡¯m pretty sure I have enough strength to at least make a person budge...but why is his body not moving¡­


    Forget the fact that he isn¡¯t moving, He is a noob. I will kill this fucker as an example!


    ¡°Ara! A pesky noob is telling me what to do!? Ah!?¡±


    That oughta scare him. I used intimidation but nothing happened¡­


    The noob glared at me. His eyes were odd as it reflected the image of death and I twitched from fear. Did I just...I FEAR THIS GUY¡­


    The noob spoke¡­


    ¡°Please release me or I will do something that YOU will regret¡±


    Those words resounded in my ears and I felt intimidated from this level one noob...ME! THE GREAT SWORDSMAN! DIEDRICH IS SCARED OF THIS GUY!?


    I shouted while using my intimidation skill repeatedly upon the noob player to draw more people in. I quickly equip the iron broadsword and I was about to engage in a duel but suddenly¡­


    The noob player clutched my entire face.


    ¡°AAHHHH!!!¡±


    I screamed in anger and struggled to move but my entire body was being lifted by the noob player. My face was being gripped by the noob¡¯s hand, slowly deforming my face.


    My health points were dropping fast as I continue to scream loud and more people came. My face was drawing blood and I was about to pass out until the noob tossed me into the arms of my two friends, Alvin and Edward.


    My body was tense and I was sweating profusely. I immediately logged out and shivered from the experience¡­


    A noob player couldn¡¯t have done that...what the hell was that person¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    ¡°Status!¡±


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''4''>Status Window</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Name:</td><td width="25%">Kuroichi</td><td width="25%">Alignment:</td><td width="25%">Neutral - Locked</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Level:</td><td width="25%">1</td><td width="25%">Class:</td><td width="25%">None</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Race:</td><td width="25%">Human</td><td width="25%">Gender:</td><td width="25%">Male</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>Titles</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>Locked</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Fame:</td><td width="25%">5</td><td width="25%">Infamy:</td><td width="25%">0</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>-</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Health:</td><td width="25%">100 / 100</td><td width="25%">Health Regen:</td><td width="25%">0.5 / Sec</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Mana:</td><td width="25%">100 / 100</td><td width="25%">Mana Regen:</td><td width="25%">0.5 / Sec</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Stamina:</td><td width="25%">50 / 50</td><td width="25%">Stamina Regen:</td><td width="25%">1.0 / Sec</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>-</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Strength:</td><td width="25%">10</td><td width="25%">Agility:</td><td width="25%">10</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Vitality:</td><td width="25%">10</td><td width="25%">Intelligence:</td><td width="25%">15</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Wisdom:</td><td width="25%">10</td><td width="25%">Leadership:</td><td width="25%">0</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Luck:</td><td width="25%">0</td><td width="25%">Art:</td><td width="25%">5</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>-</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Attack:</td><td width="25%">10</td><td width="25%">Defense:</td><td width="25%">10</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>Physical Resistances</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Slashing:</td><td width="25%">0</td><td width="25%">Piercing:</td><td width="25%">0</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Crushing:</td><td colspan=''3''>0</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>Elemental Resistances</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Fire:</td><td width="25%">0</td><td width="25%">Water:</td><td width="25%">0</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Wind:</td><td width="25%">0</td><td width="25%">Earth:</td><td width="25%">0</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Light:</td><td width="25%">0</td><td width="25%">Darkness:</td><td width="25%">0</td></tr></tbody></table>


    Well, these stats seem...normal...I thought the A.I. implemented my physical stats...this is weird¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td>It isn¡¯t weird. I purposely made it like that</td></tr></tbody></table>


    A window appeared out of nowhere and I was shocked...What the hell¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Yes, whatever you are thinking is probably right. I am Kami-sama. I placed a limiter on you...hahaaa</td></tr></tbody></table>


    What the hell is this stupid god or A.I. doing...Is this so called god, an NPC too...I ought to erase you when I return back¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td>You should mind your manners in front of me. I am a god and you are an adventurer¡­.as long as you are in this world, I can do whatever I want...and you are going to be my champion from now on. No exceptions. You will train under my tutelage starting from now!</td></tr></tbody></table>


    Wait what!?


    This damn NPC is stupid..


    ¡°I REFUSE!¡±


    While yelling out my rejection, the people in the surrounding area shuddered in fear. Seems like my voice travels far...I should run away before people find me¡­


    I quickly run away from the area since it was getting a bit crowded. First it was the incident with the sword trio and now my voice was attracting attention...I need to hide somewhere¡­


    Looking forward, I spotted an alleyway and I immediately duck into the alley.


    Alright, stupid A.I. or NPC...can you please stop bothering me...I know you can read my mind¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Hahaha! Yep, I can read your mind but you have no choice but to follow my commands. I chose your fate and you cannot escape it!</td></tr></tbody></table>


    ¡°......¡±


    I am getting tired of this annoying god...mhm...since this is a game...I think they should have a message blocker...let¡¯s try this¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Wait! Don¡¯t do that!! Listen to me before you---</td></tr></tbody></table>


    ¡°Disable window displays except for status updates and items¡±


    The window of the NPC named ¡°Kami-sama¡± finally disappeared and I was finally free¡­


    I regained my posture and looked at my stats once more and various windows popped up. These windows were probably disabled from the beginning but now they are displayed¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Entering Special instance</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>You are in the presence of a divine being</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>You are immune to the godly aura</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Commander¡¯s presence has been activated</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>You are frozen</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Special skills recognized</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Special skill registration has been cancelled due to the special instance</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>NPC-God: Kami-sama has placed a limiter on you</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Title: [_____] has been bestowed upon you</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Due to harmonizing with the Stone Woman sculptor, art stat has been generated. +5 Art</td></tr></tbody></table>


    The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.<table><tbody><tr><td>You have gained an insight to Harmony. +5 Int</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Intimidation has been used. You are immune</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Intimidation has been used. You are immune</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Commander¡¯s presence has been activated</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Intimidation skill has been generated</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Intimidation skill has evolved into Subjugation skill</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Skill Name:</td><td width="25%">Skill Rank:</td><td width="25%">Skill Level:</td><td width="25%">Skill Experience:</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Subjugation</td><td width="25%">Beginner</td><td width="25%">1</td><td width="25%">5%</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>The evolved skill of Intimidation. By successfully intimidating the enemy, the user can bring the affected user under their control by using their presence or some sort of physical force.</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Threaten skill has been generated</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Skill Name:</td><td width="25%">Skill Rank:</td><td width="25%">Skill Level:</td><td width="25%">Skill Experience:</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Threaten</td><td width="25%">Beginner</td><td width="25%">1</td><td width="25%">5%</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>By using the threaten skill, the user can extort a specific item or amount of money depending on the level of threat. The threaten skill can be enhanced by using a display of strength or some sort of false accusation.</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>You have gained +5 Fame from subjugating the infamous [Sword Trio]</td></tr></tbody></table>


    What the hell...you can generate skills by simple actions...I wonder if it is the same with combat skills...and really...this NPC is going to annoy me later...I need to make sure to keep that message blocker active at all times...good thing, the NPC cannot undo the command¡­


    So, a limiter has been placed on me...but it seems that I can use my strength...Oh well, no use arguing with an annoying NPC god that is forcing me into doing something that I really don¡¯t want to do.


    Let¡¯s just train¡­


    First things first, I need a standard quota. In a new environment, the first thing that is needed is...Information.


    I quickly make my way out of the alleyway and finally enter the visible cobblestone paths. I continue to follow the path and passed the city fountain where a group of people were still located at.


    I continue to look at the intricate buildings and various shops. Bustling voices continue to ring into the air as many NPC¡¯s were selling various items and materials.


    I continue to walk when I saw a certain building. The building had a warrior¡¯s feel to it as it had a symbol of two swords intersecting with each other as the sign. I could hear the sword clashes that were occurring from within the building. It was tempting to enter but I had to get information first¡­


    Leaving the so called ¡°Warrior building¡±, I continue to make my way down the cobblestone path. Many pathways separated but I stayed on the main one until approaching a gigantic castle-like building. In front, there were guards that were stationed at the front. One of the guards was being attentive to the surrounding area but the others were slacking off. I was slightly irritated at the lack of discipline from these guardsman. Normally, they should be reprimanded for their lethargic manners but I will wait...first, I will ask a question¡­


    ¡°Umm, Sir, is there a place where one could obtain information about this city and the Elreim Continent?¡±


    I peacefully ask my question. It wouldn¡¯t do any harm to ask a decent question and these may be NPCs but my little brother told me to treat it as real life...even though, I can¡¯t accept that irritating NPC-god...doesn¡¯t mean that other NPCs can¡¯t be peaceful¡­


    ¡°Ha? Information..Oh, you mean the library?¡± The attentive guard spoke in response.


    I like this guard. He is wary of the situation as he already noticed me when I approached the area. Only after speaking did the other guards notice my presence. I¡¯ll save him the trouble soon¡­


    ¡°Yes. Do you know the direction of the library?¡±


    ¡°Yep, just follow that other path until you reach a building with a giant book as the sign and above the door it should say library in big letters¡±


    I bow respectfully for the information and thanked the attentive guard.


    Then suddenly, I glare at the other guards that ignored my presence and continued to slack off¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Commander¡¯s presence has been activated</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Surrounding area has been affected - 6 NPCs are stunned</td></tr></tbody></table>


    I inhale my breath and released my voice just like I did back in the military¡­


    My commander¡¯s voice is truly frightening you know¡­


    ¡°YOU ALL!! STRAIGHTEN UP YOUR POSITION! STAY AT ATTENTION AND MAINTAIN ORDER! WHY ARE YOU SLACKING! YOU! OVER THERE! STOP PICKING YOUR NOSE AND HOLD YOUR WEAPON PROPERLY! AND YOU! STOP SLOUCHING AT STRAIGHTEN UP! YOU ARE LUCKY I DON¡¯T KNOW YOUR COMMANDER OR YOU WOULD BE EXECUTED ON THE SPOT FOR SUCH A POOR DISPLAY OF GUARD DISCIPLINE!!¡±


    <table><tbody><tr><td>You have gained +5 Leadership</td></tr></tbody></table>


    I directed my voice at the lazy guards and they were shuddering at my presence. Even the attentive guard was stunned but he was shaking in fear from my voice because I directed it only to those that were being lazy.


    The guards immediately followed my orders and I left the scene. They were all confused at my presence because it was unexpected and it felt as if their commander was directly in front of them. I glared at them one more time from a distance and they continued to sweat profusely.


    I shifted my gaze forward and headed towards the Library¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    My walking experience was quite dull as I passed various buildings that were similar in color and shape. I am guessing that it is the homes of the numerous NPCs that live in the city. I would like to own a house one day¡­.one day...maybe I can build one...I think I will...later¡­


    I finally made my way to the library. It was a three-story building with a giant book symbol plastered on the front with giant letters spelling out, ¡°LIBRARY¡±. It was quite the intellectual building as it had a school-like feeling to it.


    I opened the door and saw a multitude of bookshelves that continued almost endlessly around the first floor. Signs were placed at each bookshelf, entitling the specific section that had certain books located in. The floor had a an unknown dark blue carpeting and the area was clean.


    In the center, there was a circular table-like desk that had an NPC in the middle. The librarian was a female that looked as if she was in her early 20¡¯s. She had a soft green hair and wore spectacles that enhanced her ¡°librarian look¡±. Her body figure was accentuated at the hip and she had an average cup size of C. Her gaze was locked on the book and shifted onto me as I approached the center.


    She was looking at me and finally, her harmonious voice descended onto my ears¡­


    ¡°How may I help you, Adventurer?¡±


    ¡°Ah, my name is Kuroichi. I am just admiring your library...do you have books that tell the history of this continent and the history of this city? Also, I would like books that give general information about this world and subjective topics about Magic and combat-type skills. Even elemental classification books too. Please and thank you.¡±


    She was stunned at my request because not only was I the first adventurer to appear in the library, but the vast amount of book requests that I ordered.


    Her eyes widened at the vast amount and she smiled in acceptance. She laid her book down after placing a booktab and lifted her arms in the air.


    The surrounding air was dampening in color as the librarian was generating some sort of force until¡­


    A physical manifestation of an elemental body appeared in front of her. I shifted my gaze from the librarian towards the summoned elemental and stepped back.


    As I stepped backwards, the librarian spoke¡­


    ¡°Oh, this is a harmless elemental. I am a Magician and I can summon elementals...this wind elemental will gather your books that you requested. If you may, you can settle down on one of the desks.¡±


    The librarian pointed towards the various desks that were located around the center formation. The wind elemental had dispersed into the air and began to gather the books that I inquired earlier. The bookshelves had various whistling noises that were being emitted from the wind elemental.


    I sat on the chair that came with the desk and waited for my books to be delivered.


    A minute later, the books were levitating above my desk and landed on the free spot that was on the desk. I gaze at the huge amount that was stacked high in a single formation. The wind elemental had created a giant pillar of books that looked ridiculous and even made its way towards the 2nd floor ceiling.


    I sigh at the enormous amount¡­


    ¡°Wow...so much books¡­¡±


    I sigh to myself and the librarian chuckled in the background. I shifted my gaze towards her and she returned quickly to her book.


    I look at the stack of books and finally...I began my ¡°intelligence gathering procedure¡±


    WHY ME!?


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Previous</a></td><td width="25%">Main</a></td><td width="25%">Next</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

 Ch 10: Strange feelings...[Part one]

    <table><tbody><tr><td>Author''s Note


    Yes, this chapter is a short one. It is divided into three parts...


    Also, the first part is just information mostly...</td></tr></tbody></table>


    Here at the Calrius Library, things have been peaceful for me. As a young, astounding magician, I have established myself within the city of Calrius and became its honorary Librarian after the passing of the previous owner.


    Ever since the adventurers came into our world, I brightened up at the fact that my own Library could be of use.


    But things weren¡¯t too good as no one visited my library..


    I was distraught, I tell you!


    The Lord of Calrius even gave me this respectable position but now? No one came to my library¡­


    I felt lonely, you know¡­


    Until that day¡­


    A man appeared into my Library.


    At the time, I was focused on reading my book until I saw him approach me. My eyes gazed upon his very being and I saw something¡­


    A man of unknown mysteries...this man had a cool yet strict presence around him. It seemed like the world would follow in his footsteps and this kind of man was quite the enigma.


    As he came towards me, I noticed that he was an adventurer. Usually, adventurers are quite arrogant like the infamous Sword Trio but this man seemed to be new. I saw his outfit and it indeed was the starting outfit for all new adventurers.


    I quickly greeted him with a respectable tone but suddenly, the unknown adventurer introduced himself and asked for a large amount of reading materials.


    These reading materials were ridiculous in amount and somehow I felt that this adventurer could actually read them all.


    I look at him and agreed on getting him his books.


    I quickly spread my arms and began to summon my Wind Elemental: Aeroth


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''4''>Wind Elemental</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''1''>Aeroth</td><td colspan=''2''>Lv. 8</td></tr></tbody></table>


    Oh adventurer! You are surprised. Yes, bask in my awesomeness as I am a great magician!


    I proudly summoned my Wind Elemental but normally, people would be amazed at my wind elemental...however this Adventurer was cautious.


    Those eyes of his were eyeing every single detail and it seemed like he could actually attack me...despite being a new adventurer¡­


    I quickly reassure the adventurer that things are fine and quickly brought his books.


    While doing so, I ushered the adventurer to sit at one of the desks but as he walked towards the desk, I gazed at his back¡­


    His back was broad and sturdy even though the basic adventurer outfit was quite baggy and large for other adventurers but this adventurer¡¯s outfit was brimming with strength. His body was simply toned and large from the backward appearance. I did not notice the man¡¯s full appearance because it was being covered by the outfit however, the back portion showed the masculinity that exerted from this adventurer.


    I felt heated...As a magician, I studied multiple arrays of elementals and various magic spells...but none felt more..exhilarating than this moment. I felt an unquenchable desire for this man and I felt ashamed that I haven¡¯t introduced myself!


    His name is Kuroichi and I have yet to introduce my name!


    Oh please, Sir Kuroichi! My name is Elaina!! Notice me!!


    ¡­


    ¡­


    Book after book, I continuously read¡­.


    With every single detail being imprinted into my mind, I could reassess the information and recall it at any moment. It is quite the intellectual ability that I have. It is a unique ability that I gained during my early years as a child. Yes, the ability to recall information as if it were in front of me...a variant of Photographic memory¡­


    This so called ¡°ability¡± allows me to store information even with the simplest forms of reading.


    As my memory stores information, I can recall any information or situation that has occurred in my memory. Thus, creating an actual Photographic memory-stasis.


    As I read painstakingly, the books began to dwindle down at the swift reading pace that I exerted. The librarian was eyeing me from the corner and I occasionally shifted my gaze towards her but she quickly shifted her gaze towards her book in protest.


    Her face was a bit flustered...I think the librarian might be sick...but I will inquire everything after I read these books¡­


    ¡­


    Slowly, I began to learn about the world that I entered. This is the Elreim continent that houses a multitude of races. Aside from the six starting races, there are certain texts of unknown species that seem to appear all around the world.


    This world is named Oryll. Aside from the three continents, there seem to be a massive amount of islands but there are no other land-masses that are the size of the three continents.


    To the east, there is the Leireim Continent.


    To the west, there is the Milreim Continent.


    Each continent has their own respective races but while they have their own specific races, the Elreim continent actually houses all six inhabitants. The Elreim Continent is the mid-continent that lies in between the two continents and it is also served as the Equalizer continent and also the Battlefield.


    As the Equalizer, all three continents and their respective leaders actually converge on Elreim and while that is true, Elreim is also the Battlefield for the two continents.


    It is said that Leireim and Milreim harbor ill intent towards each other and have no care towards Elreim.


    Elreim is often displayed as a weak continent but since the arrival of the Adventurers, Elreim houses a fourth power.


    The power is indeed the Adventurers. With majority of the adventurers arriving in Elreim, the two continents wouldn¡¯t dare cause war on the Elreim continent. It would be quite troublesome to stir the likes of the Adventurers that could easily overtake them.


    Of course, each continent had their experts and warriors but the Adventurers are unique.


    Stolen novel; please report.


    They display an adaptability and the will to survive. This is what changed the eyes of the two warring continents.


    Within Elreim, there is a peaceful kingdom named Eithus and located within Eithus is the city of Calrius.


    Calrius is classified as an adventurer¡¯s starting city. With the appropriate accommodations, Calrius is quite the successful city. With its¡¯ Training facilities, unique guilds and marketplaces, the city of Calrius is constantly growing.


    The current lord of Calrius is Lord Heins. He is quite the favorable Lord as he has a low tax rate and is very respectable amongst the people of Calrius.


    ¡­


    ¡­


    The information continued to grow and I learned so much about Elreim and the city of Calrius. I even received multiple stat increases but I quickly disabled that function until I reached level 20. It would take a while but it would prove to be peaceful if I wasn¡¯t interrupted by the stat updates.


    I learned about the world of Magic and how elements exist with the source of Mana. It truly was like those games that I played when I was in school. Those MMOs often told me the specifics of Magic and I was amazed at the skills that were created.


    Majority of the skills were at least beginner skills to even advanced. However, there were quite a few mentions of forbidden magic skills that could distort the environment within the game.


    Like the Wind slice skill. It is a normal skill that sends a wind splice in the air towards the opponent but one magician began to change the properties of the spell. By creating a wind slice so powerful, it practically split the surrounding space around the area. It was classified as a forbidden skill due to the immense strength to directly rupture a person¡¯s body in half using the power of the wind.


    Any skill can become equally as powerful depending on the format and amount of mana that is being used.


    Forbidden skills are strong but they equally have their negatives as it could destroy the user¡¯s mind from the high magical output strain.


    Although, there aren¡¯t any magicians nowadays that have that capability...what¡¯s to say about the adventurers¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    I continued to read until Night when the librarian had to close the Library.


    Normally, the librarian would¡¯ve closed around 5 p.m. but she continued to gaze at my direction while pretending to read. I already noticed that she wasn¡¯t even reading ever since the librarian first met me.


    I knew that it was getting late so I quickly finished the remaining books and right when I was about to dismiss myself, the librarian had already packed up and I quickly followed in suit.


    I saw that the librarian was a bit embarrassed from closing so late but I immediately spoke to apologize¡­


    ¡°Sorry for taking so much of your time. I cannot thank you enough for letting me stay for so long and I hope to return another day. Miss Librarian, thank you for your services. I shall leave, please excuse me.¡±


    I made quick of my dismissal and the Librarian was shocked. As I left, she had a pained expression that wanted to say a few words but she could not.


    If anything, I will return one day...I saw her tab and her name was Elaina¡­


    Now, looking at my surroundings, it was clearly night but the city life continued. There was a multitude of bright lights and the city was lit up in a flare of bustling noises.


    The night life had just begun and the City of Calrius wasn¡¯t going to stop anytime soon.


    I followed the cobblestone path and made my way back to the City fountain where I had appeared first into this world.


    I saw a nearby bench and quickly made my way towards it. I sat down and saw the night city of Calrius from a different perspective.


    Right in front of the fountain, there were many couples that gathered in the center.


    I felt quite out of place but I wasn¡¯t going to stay much longer¡­.


    Yes, I am going to log out and see what my brother is doing...I don¡¯t know how this is going to play out...but I think my body should be able to return¡­


    I pull up my settings and finally began to log out¡­


    ¡°Log out!¡±


    My body was wrapped in a blinding light and my body quickly vanished from the bench where I sat from. None of the spectators could see the blinding light but I knew that my body was wrapped in a white flare.


    Almost instantly, my body had resurfaced directly back into the pod. My mind was boggling from the instantaneous travel and I quickly eject the pod and stepped out.


    I saw the computer monitor that was running automatically and my senses were feeling a bit dulled but gradually it was returning back to normal¡­


    Once I stepped out, my body felt light but my weight returned.


    I felt dizzy but I regained my composure and made my way out of the room.


    Takashi already sensed my presence and came to greet me from the door.


    ¡°...Welcome...back¡­¡±


    That was all Takashi said and I smiled in return.


    I walked passed Takashi and saw the time. It was 10 minutes past 0900..


    ¡°Wow..all I did was read¡­and I could¡¯ve sworn that an entire day has passed...but it seems like time was longer in that world than here¡­¡±


    I quickly deduced that time was evidently longer in the game and my gaze slowly went to my body¡­


    I noticed that¡­


    I was wearing the same basic adventurer outfit from the game¡­


    ¡°WHAT THE!?¡±


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Previous</a></td><td width="25%">Main</a></td><td width="25%">Next</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

 Ch 10: Strange feelings...[Part two]

    ¡°WHAT THE!?¡±


    I noticed the clothes were the same exact clothes that I wore when I was transported into the game¡­


    So where did my training garb go...DID IT VANISH!?


    Takashi was stunned at my voice and apparently my brother heard me too.


    Keiji began to slowly step down from the stairs as he came from the second floor. He wore the same lab coat that he wore when I was about to enter the game world. Keiji yawned as he saw me and for a few moments, he did not notice what was going on¡­


    ¡°Wha...what¡¯s going on¡­¡± Keiji sluggishly spoke as he heard me yell in the living room.


    He looked at my appearance and had a ¡®what? Everything¡¯s normal¡¯ face but then, his eyes began to clear and his mind was finally processing what had happened¡­


    ¡°WHAT!? Aniue! How did you get those clothes!?¡± Keiji shouted as he finally noticed my clothing. It seems to have taken quite a long time for Keiji to notice the basic outfit that I wore.


    Wait...aren¡¯t you the one that developed this technology!...I SHOULD BE ASKING YOU THIS!?


    ¡°Keiji...I just logged out...now...you tell me what is going on...I don¡¯t have my training garb anymore and this is how I came out of the pod¡­¡±


    I stare at Keiji in a reprimanding gaze¡­


    You serious...little brother...this is a huge step...but with this capability...people will abuse it...good thing I was the first tester..


    ¡°Okay Keiji, you need to head to the lab and link the protocols and data that was processed during the time that I entered Infinity and the time I logged out...Also, find out where my training garb went...I don¡¯t want to replace it..¡±


    I immediately told Keiji to hurry and analyze the situation that we¡¯re currently in. I still feel weird that my body successfully came but what the hell is with these clothes¡­


    Anyways, I¡¯ll let keiji do what he needs to do...I think I might return to the game world.


    I am quite interested in that world. I will be fighting so much, traveling around and even using magic...this is quite fun..


    Oh¡­I should tell Keiji about that NPC god...should I?


    Nah, I¡¯ll wait until this so called ¡°Kami-sama¡± interferes again then I might have Keiji interfere¡­


    Keiji immediately left my house and took his car and drove his way directly to the Tokyo Kurogane HQ, where he would meet his specialists and discuss the data and information that I stumbled upon.


    Takashi sat on the couch, patiently waiting for my orders.


    I let out a big sigh¡­


    ¡®I guess I should get this over with...¡¯


    ¡°Takashi, I will now set you free. You no longer have any ties with me. You are free to do what you want, Takashi. Go start a family and live in peace. This old dragon won¡¯t be needing your assistance anymore¡­¡±


    My gaze falls onto Takashi. He¡¯s been with me every since Shishou died. Takashi was my Shadow and he¡¯s protected me from so many people. He¡¯s someone that I cherish but it is time to let the man go free.


    While I stare at Takashi, his expression went from to an immediate sad expression. His eyes were a bit droopy and he was frowning at my words.


    I slowly tap the shoulders of Takashi and nodded in his freedom¡­


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to work for me anymore...I won¡¯t be returning to that lifestyle anymore¡­¡±


    My words were like knife wounds to Takashi. I could see his expression worsening but he did not speak. I felt truly responsible for Takashi¡¯s introvert personality because he was training to become my shadow. Shishou turned Takashi into my shadow and now I am basically telling him that he has no purpose¡­


    But all he needs to do is find a new purpose. Protecting me is something I can do on my own. I won¡¯t be returning to that lifestyle of bloodshed¡­


    I sternly look at Takashi and my voice became rustic and more hoarse.


    ¡°By the contract of the Kurogane clan, Shinobi Takashi is relieved from duty. You no longer have a master. You are compelled to do whatever you deem is worthy of your actions. Your connection with me is now severed¡±


    Takashi was literally heartbroken. His blank expression could not register the words that came out of my mouth and almost suddenly, he broke down in tears¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    My name is Hiromi Tanaka and I am the loyal servant of Ichiro Nakamura. I¡¯ve been serving master ever since we were teenagers. I¡¯ve always protected the master from the shadows and I¡¯ve always done my job skillfully.


    Ever since that misunderstanding with Elder Kurogane, Master Ichiro has always addressed me as Takashi...but I feel it was good enough for me since I was always by Master Ichiro¡¯s side.


    I woke up today after immediately sensing Master Ichiro¡¯s arrival within that pod. Keiji-sama already explained to me that Master Ichiro would be entering a new world and had the ability to return back. I was scared that Master Ichiro¡¯s presence disappeared but he successfully returned this morning.


    I carefully wait at the door as I sensed Master Ichiro¡¯s approach to the door. As soon as he opens the door, I saw the strange outfit that he wore. It wasn¡¯t the training garb that Master Ichiro entered in and it was so peculiar. Well, maybe Keiji-sama has an answer.


    I quickly sat on the couch while Master Ichiro and Keiji-sama continued their talk.


    They finished and Keiji-sama immediately ran out of the house and drove away.


    I looked at Master Ichiro and his face had multiple expressions but the one that was noticeable was the sad expression that he had on his face when he looked at me. I felt that something bad was going to happen but it shouldn¡¯t be that bad...right¡­


    Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.


    I was wrong.


    The words that I hated, came out of Master Ichiro¡¯s mouth.


    He was relieving me from duty...but...Master ichiro...is all I got¡­


    My heart began to ache. It was even worse than the time when Master Ichiro was dating someone. I knew that I had fallen for my master, but I cannot help it...I am a woman and Master Ichiro has taken care of me since long ago¡­


    I felt truly hurt by his words. These strange feelings that I suppressed since long ago...I¡¯ve always liked you Master Ichiro¡­


    I know it is wrong for a servant...your shinobi to display such improper feelings towards their master...but I cannot suppress it anymore¡­


    Since you told me to do whatever I want¡­


    I WILL!


    My expression was torn and I immediately surfaced up the courage to speak out loud..


    ¡°M-m-master!¡±


    My voice was stuttering and Master Ichiro responded with his voice¡­


    ¡°Yes Takashi? Is there anything you want?¡±


    Master...my name is not Takashi!...


    Come on...I can do this...Just say the words¡­.


    ¡°M-master! M-my name i-is...Hi-hiromi...Ta-tanaka!¡±


    Yes! I finally said my name! I don¡¯t want Master to abandon me!! I need to say these words!


    ¡°Wait what...Hiromi¡­.Tanaka¡­? Not Takashi?¡±


    I shook my head negatively.


    ¡®My name isn¡¯t Takashi, Master Ichiro!!¡¯


    ¡°I-i...Ma-master Ichiro¡­I-i lo-lov¡­¡±


    My face was turning red. My heart was beating so much that it felt it would explode. I really don¡¯t want to leave Master Ichiro¡¯s side¡­.He¡¯s always been my inspiration and my hero...Master Ichiro!! Ichiro-sama!!


    Suddenly, I passed out¡­.


    ¡­


    ¡­


    I looked at Takashi---err Hiromi Tanaka¡¯s face as soon as she spoke¡­.


    ¡®So...Takashi was actually a female...Wait..so that¡¯s what Keiji meant by ¡°her¡±!?¡¯


    I knew something was fishy...So Takashi was a she¡­


    Hiromi¡¯s words were a bit stuttering as she spoke but then...she passed out.


    Before she could land on her face on the floor, I immediately caught her in my arms¡­


    ¡®What am I going to do this person...she clearly...was about to confess to me...¡¯


    I don¡¯t know what I am going to do with her. I am not looking for a relationship right now but considering Takash--I mean Hiromi¡¯s personality...it must¡¯ve taken a great deal of courage to speak like that. I already knew that she was the silent type and she was very shy. I just didn¡¯t know Takashi was a woman¡­.Why did Shishou trick me¡­for 14 years!! I thought she was a guy!


    And¡­.KEIJI KNEW!?


    I will have to discipline Keiji for hiding this secret...but..I really am stupid to finally notice that Takashi was a female¡­


    I mean it was pretty noticeable during the times when Takashi---err Hiromi saw my naked body. Good thing it was from behind because she might pass out like she did today.


    When she saw me, I noticed her breathing was erratic and her expression was embarrassed. Even though we were in the field...her guard dropped significantly and she immediately ran away for some time.


    There were many occasions that could¡¯ve proven that she was a girl and I was clueless¡­


    I can tell that she doesn¡¯t want to separate from me...I¡¯ll let her do what she wants¡­


    If she wants to stay by myself, I really don¡¯t mind...I really wanted her to be free. I personally thought that her servitude towards me was always restricting her¡­


    After Hiromi fell into my embrace, I carefully picked her up into a princess-style carry and swiftly made my way to her room. This was the first time that I would be entering her room so I won¡¯t extend my stay...although I want to see what she has...I don¡¯t want to disrespect her privacy.


    I guess I¡¯ll use that¡­


    [Kurogane Technique: Ears of the Bat]


    By using my profound hearing senses, I made my way to her bed without even looking inside. My ears could perceive the sound waves that interact with objects which also provides me with another way to see while impaired from my sight.


    This was a fairly common ability amongst heavily trained martial artists but none were as advanced as Shishou¡¯s hearing techniques.


    I placed her on the bed and quickly made my way out of the room.


    When she wakes up, we¡¯ll talk..


    I made my way downstairs and grabbed a water bottle to drink. The water exhilarated my entire body in a shock and my senses were finally at their peak¡­


    That pod can really mix my senses...I guess...I should return to the game...AH! I forgot to ask the time ratio between here and in the game...Keiji already left¡­


    I guess I will look it up¡­


    I made my way to my desk and turned on my laptop...


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Previous</a></td><td width="25%">Main</a></td><td width="25%">Next</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

 Ch 10: Strange feelings...[Part three]

    ¡­


    ¡­


    Looking on my laptop, I finally turned it on and a sequence codec appeared and I inputted my serial command to deter the protective code and reveal the initial startup menu. This laptop was an advanced miniaturized supercomputer that I had built a while ago. Using quantum computing, this laptop has the ability to recode itself and produce intricate programs that could terminate the Pentagon¡¯s security system within one click of a button.


    After entering the startup menu, I finally accessed the main site for Infinity. The page loaded and a giant Kurogane insignia was displayed on the background and the main page of Infinity appeared.


    I clicked on the Information panel and found the answers that I was looking for¡­


    It seems that the game runs ? of Earth¡¯s time.


    When someone plays for one hour in the game, in reality only 15 minutes truly passed. An entire day is equivalent to 6 hours in real life.


    This was interesting...Keiji finally made use of the quantum core that I left behind¡­


    Well, it wasn¡¯t much since I¡¯ve been developing unknown technology. My basement has secret files that every government wished they had but I carefully sealed those information.


    That kind of technology has the ability to change the world for better or for worse. Depending on the person that uses that technology, it will undoubtedly change the world.


    Even after I was in the military and taking many contracts from multiple countries, I still had time to develop advanced tech.


    The Kurogane corporation also relies on my technology but my little brother, Keiji is smart like me. He¡¯s able to develop an unrivaled game that also serves as a new world. I think I should congratulate Keiji¡­and I might return to school...I want to at least get a degree in something...the world is at peace so I should be able to return to school...and even though my IQ is higher than anyone in the entire world...I still want to go to school...


    Oh well, enough about this. Time to return to that world...I wonder...is it going to take forever like it did in the beginning¡­


    Let¡¯s just see...I don¡¯t want to run into that ¡°Kami-sama¡± again though...overbearing people are annoying...I just want to enjoy a free life¡­


    I make my way to the pod room and finally enter the dream-like state¡­.


    My body tingled while I entered Infinity. Unlike the first time, it was quick and uneventful but it was good that I didn¡¯t appear in that damn palace again¡­


    I spawned on the bench and it was still nighttime. In reality, I barely wasted 30 minutes so it seems that 2 hours passed here.


    I get up and I noticed that the city lights were still on but I could hear erotic sounds that came from the south area of Calrius. I immediately knew what it was¡­


    It was the night city and even though adventurers are here, it is still a world and the one thing that is universal is...eroticism¡­


    Anyways, I didn¡¯t want to indulge any further so I made my way towards the exit of the city.


    The guards were on patrol and they were guarding the exit.


    I made my way and I noticed that two of the guards were the same guards that I had ¡°verbally disciplined¡± earlier. I made my way towards him and he shuddered from my presence.


    Apparently, I left a ¡°deep¡± impression on him and he didn¡¯t want to be yelled at again.


    The guard noticed me and while stuttering, he spoke.


    ¡°H-halt! Ad-adventurers ha-have to s-stay within t-the c-city f-for four we-weeks!¡±


    I see...so one week in real time...four weeks here...but I can¡¯t wait to experience the world...I think I will have to ignore those rules.


    I glare at him and my presence became dominating. His eyes were reflecting on the bad decisions he did and was about to run away until I grabbed his shoulder..


    ¡°Now look, I may be an adventurer but I can handle myself out there. I don¡¯t know but I know that you are just following the rules but there should be an alternative to letting an adventurer outside the city walls¡±


    I look at him with my piercing eyes and he nodded profusely¡­


    ¡°Ye-yeah! the only way is to accept a quest! A matter of fact, I have a quest for wolf pelts! We need wolf leather as a padding for our armor and I was just looking for someone to accept it!¡±


    I see...so this is the so called ¡°Questing¡± or initiating a quest-type thing. These guards need more backbone. I should visit their captain to discipline him...because these guards have no bearing...whatever, I get to leave the castle walls anyways¡­


    ¡°I shall accept your quest, young guardsman. Please do not be afraid...Earlier, I had to reprimand you and your fellow comrades for lack of discipline...I hope you will correct that and show the might of Calrius!¡±


    The guard immediately saluted in a quick manner. His posture was straightened and I feel that he has a lot of loyalty towards this city¡­I really hope this guard doesn¡¯t slack off in the future..or I might kill him myself.


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Due to constructive discipline, you have gained +5 leadership</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Guard Elric¡¯s intimacy has reached maximum respect</td></tr></tbody></table>


    Wow...this is weird...Intimacy with an NPC? I see...this is like real life where people are familiar with each other, thus their intimacy is good...so, things like this apply in this world?


    Keiji did say to treat this world as if it were real...actually..I think this world is real...I think..to me it is real...my body is actually in this world...I think things are going to get interesting later¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Quest Accepted</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''4''>Gathering Wolf Pelts</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>Guard Elric has been looking for someone to gather Wolf pelts for the armors that are stored in the barracks. He needs a total of 25 pelts to be fitted with the armors. Due to having relations with Guard Elric, he has asked you to retrieve 25 Wolf pelts.


    Time Limit: 2 days


    Difficulty: D


    Quest Requirement:


    Failed if you die


    Quest Rewards


    +500 xp


    Iron sword


    Unknown</td></tr></tbody></table>


    Hah? Time limit is 2 days¡­? Difficulty is D? What are these...ah...I see¡­


    The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    The quest difficulty is D...I wonder what the highest quest difficulty is¡­Anyways, I have a time limit of 2 days...I shouldn¡¯t stall anymore...since I will be going after wolves...I need a weapon..but...it¡¯ll be fine...I think I can get 25 wolves killed...it¡¯s been awhile since I¡¯ve done this type of ordeal...I guess it¡¯s a good warmup¡­


    I tap Guard Elric on the shoulder and dismissed myself, leaving the city exit. Elric was still afraid of my presence but at least now he ¡°respects¡± me. Well, he still fears me but whatever.


    I finally leave the city¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    In a floating palace, within a different dimension, a man was sitting on his throne humming to himself while smiling¡­


    ¡°Oh Champion of mine, fate has already binded you. From where you came from, your strength is unrivaled by no other. You are indeed the strongest amongst your peers but this universe is much more than that¡­.you will become my fate and finally ascend into the realm of the gods as I did once before¡­¡±


    Kami-sama was speaking to himself as he held a orb within his hands. On the orb, it was projecting a human figure that had normal clothes and the human figure had finally left the city.


    ¡°There¡¯s a reason for that limiter I placed on you, Champion...The other gods will be looking for you and they will kill you, no matter if you are an adventurer or not. They will not stop until you are dead...you are an existence that threatens the god realm...your abilities may be limited...but it will not stop your tremendous strength and skill...You will grow, champion...and you will thank me for sealing your stats¡­¡±


    Kami-sama continued to eye the adventurer that was displayed on the orb. This adventurer was Kuroichi, whose fate is slowly beginning to change¡­


    Kami-sama felt strange as these feelings began to emerge from his conscience. It was the human emotions that he had thrown away since ascending into the God Realm. He felt that this adventurer would be able to change the universe¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    After leaving the city, I saw the night sky without the impeding lights of the city. I felt that this world was too real. The setting was like a fantasy world and I knew that Infinity would continue to grow.


    After basking in the night sky, I surveyed the area that was outside the city walls. There were various shadows that prowled in the night. I felt the urge to reminisce the past where Shishou would often take me into the mountains and I learned the survival skills that Shishou taught me.


    This scene of the night reminded me of the time where I began training in the mountains. There was an open area at the foot of the mountain and many animals would move. These animals were nocturnal and they were savage.


    At the time, I was a kid but nonetheless, I experienced the horrors of night where truly it is survival of the fittest.


    This night scene was similar and I felt a raging emotion of sadness and happiness.


    Before my eyes could water, I resolved my emotions quickly and looked ahead.


    ¡°I can¡¯t waver. Shishou is long gone but I will forever inherit his teachings. It¡¯s now time to hunt!¡±


    My presence engulfed the surrounding area.


    The creatures immediately dashed away from my location as they sensed an unimaginable thirst for blood. It felt like the atmosphere was slowly crushing on those creatures and they knew they had to run away before the being before them would devour them.


    I quickly dashed forward as I have always done during my training and my speed was ridiculously fast. As I sprinted forward, I immediately leaped towards a cowering animal.


    It was a horned rabbit.


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Horned Rabbit - Level 1</td></tr></tbody></table>


    I saw the animal cowering and I immediately took a hold of the rabbit¡¯s horn and broke it, permanently severing the connection between the rabbit and the horn.


    Normally, players could not accomplish this feat because they do not understand the importance of strength, thus lacking the ability to apply a direct force that could shatter a boulder.


    I quickly made use of the horn and pierced the rabbit through its skull, killing the creature¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td>20 exp gained</td></tr></tbody></table>


    Well, unlike most games...the creatures do not disappear after they died...This so called horned rabbit is still here but I received experience.


    Well, I don¡¯t think I can get rabbit pelt because I don¡¯t have a sharp knife...or some sort of skinning knife..what should I do about these animals¡­


    Mhm...this is annoying...I can¡¯t extract the pelt from the rabbit creature...ah...I think I know what I should do¡­


    This reminds me of the time when Shishou hunted wolves on the mountain. After killing them, he would bind them onto a leather rope or some sort of string to drag along with him.


    I think I can do that...the question is...where am I going to get rope...I can¡¯t go back into the city because I would be wasting time...I think I will go look for vines or some sort of stringed vegetation that I can use as a rope¡­


    I guess we¡¯re gonna enter the Forest...and within the forest...there¡¯s bound to be wolves...this would save time...but I don¡¯t know...hunting without a weapon is still dangerous..no matter who you are, always be cautious...things will change and you can never be too sure...but I am confident that I can do it...because I am Shishou¡¯s disciple¡­


    Looking at the horn that I left lodged in the rabbit, I quickly retrieve the horn and now I have a weapon¡­


    I lift the bloody horned rabbit by its leg and quickly entered the forest, leaving behind a trail of blood¡­.


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Previous</a></td><td width="25%">Main</a></td><td width="25%">Next</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

 Ch 11: Thrill of the hunt

    <table><tbody><tr><td>Breaking News!</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>This is Japan-NHK Worldwide with your spokesperson, Ms. Inahara!


    ..


    ..


    Today we will be covering the game events that are currently going on within the Infinity game. Our last interview was with the creator of Infinity but we have another famous person within our stage. Ever since the start of the Infinity from two months ago, this man has been working on leveling up to achieve number one in the level ranking system and he did. This man is quite the avid gamer and very handsome. Many girls are constantly bartering him for his number but alas, this man has been captured by the game goddess.


    Introducing the highest level player within Infinity, Mr. Black Dragon!


    *claps*


    Black Dragon: It is very nice to meet you, Ms. Inahara and the rest of the world. Ah, but please call me Keigo.


    Inahara: It is a pleasure to have you on the show, Mr. Keigo. Now, what does it feel like being the highest level player in the Infinity game. With a level of 35, I can¡¯t imagine the vast amount of skills you have and especially that you are close to level 40 where users can attain their second class upgrade.


    Keigo: Well, even if I am the highest level, one must have the stats to support a high level. I am quite competitive and I will hold on to my rank as the highest level no matter what.


    Inahara: I see, so you are eliminating those that are standing in your way. You are quite the blunt man as opposed to your appearance. Well, no one can judge you anyways because you have the strength to back up that statement.


    Keigo: Hah! I am not afraid of being judged. I will fight those that are challenging my rank as number one and they will either be eliminated or they will join my guild.


    Inahara: Ah, your guild is called the Tyrant Guild, am I correct?


    Keigo: Yes, Ms. Inahara, that is correct. I am the guild master for the Tyrant guild and I will rule over the entire Elreim continent and then I will conquer the world.


    Inahara: Quite ambitious. Seems that you will continue to grow and stick close to your rank as number one. It would be surprising to see someone else that is at the same level as you. The rest of the players are at least 4 levels behind you, Keigo. Aren¡¯t you afraid of the backlash and opinions of the people after they see this show?


    Keigo: Hah! I could care less about weaklings. As long as I have the strength to back up my words, no one will dare to oppose me and my guild will rule over the world with me!


    Inahara: Well, you are the highest level player in the world of Infinity, so I doubt anyone could say anything to you. Now, we will go onto the next segment of today¡¯s show... we will be showing the recent happenings in Infinity...currently, the two continents that are controlled respectively by Australia and Taiwan are preparing for a war outbreak. Although Australia and Taiwan are in control, they cannot stop the ¡°NPCs¡± from warring against each other...the battlefield will take place on the global server...known as the Elreim Continent!


    Bzzzt¡­


    </td></tr></tbody></table>


    In the world of Infinity, there will be a great war that will change the Elreim continent. Even after the Dawn of Adventurers, this world has been alive and constantly changing over the years. It just so happens that the adventurers arrived at the brink of war¡­


    The three continents and their respective representatives will now meet one last time within Elreim...where they will discuss late engagements that need to be settled¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    Within a forest, there was a figure that constantly changed directions by dashing through treelines. The players avoided this forest after one of the adventurers experienced a frightening scene. A man was dragging around dead wolves that seem to have been killed by some sharp object that pierced through their eye sockets, leaving behind a blood trail. But the most frightening scene would be the unshakeable presence that a person feels when entering the forest.


    Many online forums created rumours about this terrifying forest. Most of them were speculations about a high level beast roaming within the forest¡¯s vicinity or a an event quest.


    They were all wrong...it was just a normal adventurer¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    After spending 8 long hours within the forest, naturally it became daytime. The smell of dead wolves was potent in the air however I was simply amazed at the realistic display of senses.


    When I first entered this forest, everything seemed quite desolate as nothing approached me. However it was just a premonition for an attack. I already sensed the bloodlust that emanated from the pack of wolves.


    They were eyeing the dead horned rabbit that excited their senses.


    The smell of blood attracts blood predators and wolves were obviously one of them. I knew this would lure the wolves out of their territory.


    I wouldn¡¯t be stupid to bring an animal that has fresh blood within a territory that has blood predators. The law of the jungle isn¡¯t so kind to stupid people. However...these wolves underestimated me¡­


    At first, a pack of ten wolves surrounded me in a circular formation that obviously trapped me. Normally, the teenage me would¡¯ve initiated the attack but I am not that stupid anymore. Even if I was stronger than the opponent, things will always change during the moment of the battle.


    I released the horned rabbit from my clutches and wielded the broken horn in my hand. I should¡¯ve checked my inventory for some beginner items but I don¡¯t know the concept of most games. I literally thought of this game as an entire world so entering this world, naturally I did not think of the possibilities of having beginner items or else I would¡¯ve used the beginner dagger as a carving knife and the beginner bread items as a food trap.


    The wolves cautiously eyed me with their blood red eyes. I knew these weren¡¯t ordinary wolves because they had odd characteristics on their fur¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Blood Wolf - Level 6</td></tr></tbody></table>


    A level 6 type beast. Moreover, its name seems to be affiliated with those blood red markings on their fur.


    Thankfully, they had similar characteristics as a wolf. They always circulate their prey to determine whether the prey is weak enough then they will engage. However, they haven¡¯t done anything¡­


    I began to glare at the biggest wolf that stood behind the circular formation. My presence was daunting as I noticed the wolves were hesitant and during that hesitation, I began my assault.


    Gripping the broken horn, I dashed forward in a sprint. The wolf did not expect this sudden burst of wind that emanated from my body and flinched at the last second before his brain was pierced through its left eye socket.


    I successfully killed one wolf and at the same time, I gained experience and new skills but I immediately turned off notifications with a shout.


    ¡°Turn off notifications!¡±


    My shouting snapped the confused state of some wolves and they began their assault with a howl from their leader.


    With a quick evasion technique, I dodged the pair of claws that were aiming towards my back. The wolves had begun their assault.


    As the 8 wolves, aside from the pack leader and the one that I killed, they growled and launched a series of prancing slashes that would¡¯ve killed a beginner adventurer by now.


    I felt a sense of joy as the thrill for survival was finally on.


    From the looks of the cautious wolves, they were now wary of my bloodlust, far surpassing their own. Even the pack leader growled in dismay as he continued to eye me from afar.


    My body began to move automatically. I was used to this lifestyle as I hunted before during the days of my training under my Shishou. The many times that I barely escaped death from wolves resurfaced through my mind.


    It was exhilarating as if I was in the midst of a battlefield where both sides are against me.


    While continuously dodging, I began to reminisce the past but I shook off those feelings quickly. I was in the middle of a battle, I cannot lose focus. Not now...not ever¡­


    I reprimanded myself and began my assault.


    One wolf charged at my side and bared its fangs. While everything was moving rhythmically, I swiftly change my body position and launched a retaliation attack while the aerodynamic force from my shift applied an additional attack boost.


    A notification pinged but luckily, I turned off all notifications to afford not to get distracted.


    Three wolves leaped towards me in a synchronized attempt but my body was constantly shifting and adapting to each situation. After killing the wolf, I swiftly withdrew the broken horn and slashed at the incoming wolves that were in mid-air.


    Their howls were symbolic as it signified a great deal of pain. Their eyes were slashed out of recognition and I swiftly ended their lives with a quick blow of my fist, straight to their temple.


    My body was reacting constantly and shifted towards the rest of the wolves that were wary from my existence. They cautiously backed away as their leader was behind them, creating a safeguard for their leader.


    Four wolves were in front while their leader was at the back, growling in fury towards my very being.


    Feeling the thrill of the hunt, my body immediately dashed forward in a quick blur, stunning the four wolves in surprise


    .


    Soon after, I had already grabbed a hold of the two wolves that were in front. I immediately break their front paws with my unrestrained strength. The two wolves that weren¡¯t injured, immediately turned around and dashed off while their leader was already gone ahead.


    I knew I wasn¡¯t going to let them go...after all I needed 25 pelts...and I had only 7¡­


    I immediately dashed forward.


    Notifications continued to ding in the background but I continuously ignored them. My body felt exhilarating as if it ignored everything.


    This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    My speed was far above the speed of those runaway wolves, thus I caught up to them in a quick burst of speed.


    In my hand, I quickly stab the back of the head of one of the wolves that furiously continued to run. As his body dropped lifelessly, I recovered the bloodied horn and chased after the remaining two.


    The leader of the pack was howling to signal the nearby wolf packs to assemble at his location but it was already too late.


    I leaped towards the wolf that ran behind the leader and with a quick maneuver, I snapped the neck of the wolf, quickly ending his suffering.


    I saw the leader of the wolf howling in panic as he continued to run. I shifted my gaze towards the back of his head and slowly began to aim at my target.


    With the horn in my hand, I threw the horn with a spiraling motion to provide an accurate shot at the leader.


    I watched in slow motion as my horn was vibrating through the wind, creating a miniature force that rippled in the air. The bloodied horn finally made contact and created a giant hole within the leader¡¯s head. The wolf¡¯s body dropped without an ounce of life as I literally blew out the leader¡¯s brain.


    My horn continued to fly through the air after piercing the wolf¡¯s skull but luckily, it embedded itself within one of the forest¡¯s large, dark trees. The horn should¡¯ve continued onwards but it lost momentum after the contact with the wolf.


    After I killed the remaining two wolves that had broken limbs, I quickly gather them into a pile.


    I saw that there were some sort of vegetation within the forest and I quickly spotted some sort of mysterious vine that was durable.


    I tied the wolves by their limbs and dragged them with me along with the dead horned rabbit.


    I decided that after this quest, I will check these notifications that appeared.


    Barely an hour passed since I engaged those 10 wolves and I continued my hunt¡­


    ...


    ...


    I had a total of 38 wolves stringed together by a long vine that didn¡¯t break under the constant weight of the wolves.


    I knew that I had already met the requirements but I had a total of two days...I can at least complete it in one day rather than showing up abruptly at the guard after killing 25 wolves in 2 and half hours¡­


    It was nearing morning at this time and I could hear players engaging in combat just outside the forest. I noticed that none of them entered the forest. It was quite shocking because the forest had a lot of vegetation and creatures that could be killed for experience or food. I didn¡¯t know at the time that I was the sole reason that they did not enter the forest.


    My presence was easily felt and gave the nearby players a state of fear.


    Also, not only did I capture those 38 wolves, I even killed off a giant boar that tramped some of the smaller trees in the forest.


    It was quite trance-inducing as my state of mind was constantly in battlemode. When I engaged the boar, I made a risk to break off one of the tusks using a concept called Applied force.


    Well, all I did was taunt the boar into charging into a tree and as its tusks were embedded in the bark, I used a large rock to sever the tusk and used it as an impaling weapon against the boar, thus killing it.


    The boar was at the end of the vine length as carried majority of the weight.


    I would admit that my presence is quite scary. My beginner clothes were ripped apart by the wolves that attacked me. I would evade by unfortunately, my clothes didn¡¯t stand a chance and they were ripped.


    My appearance was tattered as my pants had various claw marks and they were clearly ripped apart. My shirt was no longer usable so I threw it away and on my body was a multitude of scars but they were covered by the copious amounts of blood that stained my open chest.


    After hunting and gaining experience, I decided to head out of the forest. My battlestate naturally faded and thus the forest was now approachable by the players.


    As I walked out of the forest, the players eyed me in astonishment. They saw my rustic yet wild appearance of a man that carried a rope-like vine on his back.


    The females eyed me in fascination as they could clearly see my well-toned body and luckily they did not see the scars or they would be frightened at the amount.


    The players were now afraid of me as they finally saw the appearance of the wolves that were tied by my vine. I even noticed that people were whispering a few words but I noticed that they said the words of ¡°Record¡± and ¡°Video Capture¡±.


    Apparently, they were recording the scene as a bloody man was walking out of the forest with multiple blood wolves stringed together. They saw my face and while it was plastered with blood, they noticed my eyes.


    Many of the females fainted from my appearance but some took notice of my eyes.


    The players were gawking in whispers as they felt a similarity between my eyes and the unknown man that appeared 2 months ago. They shook it off as a false identity as many could recreate these eyes but they did not know that the unknown man was actually me.


    As I stringed a line of dead wolves, there was a trail of blood but then at the end of the line, there was a large creature.


    Many of the players wanted to charge towards to me ask questions but I ignored the many calls from the sides.


    They began to take notice of the giant boar that stood at two meters, even when it was being dragged, lifelessly.


    They recognized the boar. It had the title of [King of the Forest]


    The creature was actually called the silver-horned boar¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td>[King of the Forest] Silver-horned Boar - Level 19</td></tr></tbody></table>


    They were astonished at the high level creature. There was a Class D++ quest that regarded the capture or subjugation of the Silver-horned boar but none of the players in the city even managed to kill the animal.


    The players within the area were averaged around levels 8 to 17 but even if they had the same level as the boar, they would still find difficulty on killing the beast¡­


    Yet, this man did it by himself.


    They watched as the boar was impaled through its right eye socket and reached outside the back of its skull. The players knew that this man was dangerous and more so with the appearance he came with as he walked out of the forest.


    I walked towards the city walls where there was an entrance into the city. On duty, there was a guardsman that I recognized. It was another fellow that I had disciplined yesterday. He eyed me and noticed my eyes. He shivered as he recalled the words that I said yesterday and he immediately saluted me.


    I knew that Guard Elric had spread a few rumours about me within the guards but now...it seems that they respect me..


    I returned the salute and the guard was in awe from the long, bloody line of dead creatures.


    The guard spoke to me¡­


    ¡°S-Sir! Guard Elric has told us about the quest you have taken. P-please! can you deliver them to the Guard quarters! It¡¯s up ahead! That building with the military barracks! I would like to help but...I am afraid that my strength isn¡¯t up to your standards, Sir!¡±


    ¡°Ah, no worries. Just keep doing your job and don¡¯t slack off. I will be staying here for awhile and I might talk to your Guard Captain sooner or later. So, show everyone the pride of the Calrius City guards and stay sharp!¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir!¡±


    I quickly bid the guard farewell and a notification pinged but I still won¡¯t look at the notifications until I finish this quest¡­


    The players in the city gawk at my appearance and they took notice of the beasts that were obviously dead but they were being dragged behind me.


    The NPC mothers and children all hid in fear as they saw me dragging these beasts. The men were gauging my potential as I walked with a manly stance towards the Guard Quarters.


    One of the guards was Elric and it looked as if he were going to retire for the day but then the wafting smell of blood swept him by surprised and turned his head towards me and saw my appearance and the string of wolves that were behind me.


    He was shocked to no recognition and I wave in front of him to snap him out of his confused state¡­


    ¡°Well, Guard Elric. I am done with the quest. Here¡¯s the ¡°pelts¡± you needed...well, I couldn¡¯t skin them or anything but at least I brought them back to be skinned by professionals without risking the chances of failure with me. Anyways...I want my reward¡­¡±


    ¡°Ah! Y-yes!¡±


    Elric snapped out of confusion again as he still couldn¡¯t fathom the monstrous ability that I possess.


    Elric immediately ran inside the quarters and I heard various shouts and verbal commands being spoken.


    Almost suddenly, I could feel a daunting man was walking towards the door that separated him and me. I felt his presence but I could only smirk as the man was still inexperienced as compared to me.


    Quickly, the door flung open and I saw a man that stood easily above 6 feet. The man had visible scars on his face and had a rustic beard that covered majority of his chin.


    His appearance was of a middle-aged burly man with an exception body figure that complimented his endearing presence. He had a soft brown hair and you could tell that his eyes saw a vast amount of experience of warfare and bloodshed.


    I could smell the scent of blood radiating from this man as he emitted an aura that signified the presence of a killer, just like mine.


    He eyes were gazing at me suspiciously and almost quickly, he spoke in a laughter..


    ¡°Hahahaha! I like you! You will join the Calrius Military and you will be under my command!¡±


    Wait what...NO! I HATE OVERBEARING PEOPLE!? AHHHH!!!!


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Previous</a></td><td width="25%">Main</a></td><td width="25%">Next</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

 Ch 12: Taking command

    ¡­.


    ¡­.


    ¡°Wait a minute here! I just completed this quest for the guards, not to be employed into the Calrius military and especially not under your command!¡±


    This man must be stupid to think that I am blindly going to accept this preposterous offer.


    ¡°Hahaha!! Of course, of course! You have the eyes of a warrior, that is why I am going to employ you!¡±


    Wait what¡­.


    This guy is idiotic...I should leave before things get hectic. I can tell that I am garnering unwanted attention and the creatures are still visible to the public¡­


    ¡°You aren¡¯t getting my point. I don¡¯t care about the reasons why you chose me, I am not going to join. I refuse!¡±


    This is the second time I refused someone because they were overbearing...I ought to kill that NPC god when I meet him...I feel as if that he¡¯s the one pulling everything from behind the scenes¡­


    Guard Elric and a few of the guardsman were shocked at my refusal. Normally, they thought that I was quite patriotic ever since I gave Guard Elric his ¡®constructive discipline¡¯....I just want to live a free life...but this is quite tempting since I know that wherever you are...there¡¯s always a need for currency¡­


    I doubt that I can leave the castle walls again unless there¡¯s a demand for wolf pelts...but I think I slaughtered the majority wolf packs that ruled the forest territories¡­


    I think I have a way for this¡­


    ¡°Anyways, I won¡¯t join the Guard Quarters because there seems to be a lack of discipline around here. Just yesterday, I¡¯ve corrected a few of your men, ¡°Captain¡± and I feel that you are unsuitable to lead.¡±


    The man was surprised and the guards were frantically trying to stop me from continuing. The man¡¯s face was irritated and suddenly he released his killing intent towards me. His eyes were gazing as if he wanted to put a hole through me.


    My appearance was quite bloody but it also applied an additional effect.


    As my presence was being released, the surrounding people froze in silence, neither uttered a sound or gasp.


    My eyes were focused on the captain that dared to unleash his killing intent at me.


    My bloodied appearance helped create a more sinister and gruesome atmosphere. My intent was far greater than this captain that was inexperienced when compared to me.


    The guards quickly branded their weapons but they were still stuck in place as my presence was unshakeable.


    I dropped the vine that tied the creatures together and slowly closed the distance between the captain.


    My gaze was unrelenting as it affected everyone that was near the guard quarters. Several players were stunned from my presence and none of them could record what was happening. As I stopped in front of the captain, I released my pressure.


    Everyone began to gasp for a breath of air and the captain was still stunned even after I released my presence.


    I clutched his collar-like tunic that he wore and lifted him up one foot in the air and spoke¡­


    ¡°Look here, I will not be under your command. You will confer your status as the Guard captain to me and you will be directly under my command. If you refuse...I think you don¡¯t want to experience that pain. I am ashamed at the appearance of your men. They probably learned their lax nature from you. Even if you have experience in the battlefield, you should not relax because there¡¯s a reason why you are in this position as a leader. You should feel ashamed and that is why I will forcefully take your rank and demote you. You will now be under my command and I will show you how a leader runs things.¡±


    I quickly reprimand the man that quivered in mid-air. My constructive discipline seemed to have worked as the ex-captain was nodding furiously towards me.


    The guards were dumbfounded and some of them wanted to charge towards me but Guard Elric blocked their paths. I noticed that Guard Elric was rooting for me and his expression was grim when he saw one of the guards sneaking up behind me.


    The guard was about to knock me out with the hilt of his sword but I immediately tossed the ex-captain aside and spun in a furious 360-degree motion that resulted in a taekwondo tornado kick.


    The heel of my right foot interacted with the hilt of the guard¡¯s sword and effortlessly knocked it out of his hands. The guard was scared stiffless and I emanated a powerful killing aura towards the guard that tried to sneak up on me and he fainted from the enormous pressure.


    The surrounding guards, not including Guard Elric, charged at me and before I could initiate my retaliation...The ex-captain spoke¡­


    ¡°STOP!!! YOU ALL! DON¡¯T MAKE ME LOSE MORE FACE THAN I ALREADY DID!¡±


    His voice was loud and the guards that charged towards me were baffled from the words that came out of their ex-captain.


    Before the guards could protest, the ex-captain spoke¡­


    ¡°I, hereby confer my rank of Captain to this adventurer and I will follow him under his leadership!¡±


    I nodded in approval and the guards nearby shouted in uproar.


    ¡°Captain!! Why are you letting this adventurer do this!¡±


    ¡°No captain! Why!¡±


    ¡°Captain!!¡±


    The protests continued until the ex-captain shouted in anger.


    ¡°Silence! I will not have anyone argue with my decision! As a warrior myself, you can tell if a man is strong or not and this man is far above anyone here!! Ever since I became the Guard Captain, I felt lax due to the peaceful times that existed within Calrius but I did not notice my own wrongdoings as it affected my soldiers!¡±


    ¡°But Capt-!!¡±


    ¡°Silence! This man is far stronger than any of us! We should be glad that such a man is guiding us! I will not tolerate protest while this man is our leader!¡±


    His words were quite truthful and my deadly gaze naturally faded away.


    The ex-captain knelt on one knee before me and spoke¡­


    ¡°Sir, it is an honor to follow under your command. I, Theo Rindius shall pledge loyalty towards you!¡±


    Mhm...this turned out better than I expected...I thought I should kill one of them to show that I wasn¡¯t kidding¡­


    Things are getting a bit hectic...the other players around here are starting to cause rumors and I don¡¯t want to expose myself any further¡­


    ¡°Stand up, Warrior Theo. Now, I will take over command and it would be best that you inform everyone by tomorrow that I am the new captain because I will change everything. You will be my second-in-command while Guard Elric over there will help you supervise. I want all matters regarding the security of this city by tomorrow also. I read up on the details about the city of Calrius so I will have to make an appearance to the Lord of this city thus I need a messenger to deliver my appointment and I will make an appearance two days from now, to confer my rank as Captain. And after I leave, have those guards that are on standby to help retrieve the wolves and the Boar. They need to be properly handled and skinned.¡±


    I told them my commands and Theo and Elric saluted me in response. The other guards were stunned but Theo immediately brought them back to reality and told them to handle the wolves that were tied by my vine.


    Everyone was stunned at the current situation as they watched me take command over the city guards.


    There were multiple whispers and murmurs towards my actions and various players gawked at how I took command.


    After taking over command of the Guards, a notification pinged and I finally decided that it is time to check these notifications.


    I quickly dismiss myself while Theo and Elric began to work on the commands I set out and the guards were still confused and most of them were reluctant to follow my orders.


    I guess I need to show how much of a leader I am...tomorrow is going to be fun¡­


    ¡°Display notifications!¡±


    <table><tbody><tr><td>You have gained a total of 3,450 exp</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Titles gained


    Bane of the Blood Wolf


    King of the Forest</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Stats gained


    +45 STR


    +50 AGI


    +150 STA</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>New Skills</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Due to excellent maneuverability, Movement skills and similar agility skills are increased to Advanced rank</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Due to expert weapon mastery, Weapon skills are increased to Advanced rank</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Skill Name:</td><td width="25%">Skill Rank:</td><td width="25%">Skill Level:</td><td width="25%">Skill Experience:</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Sprint</td><td width="25%">Advanced</td><td width="25%">Lv. 1</td><td width="25%">5%</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>[Agility skill] By shifting your body into a sprint position, you will gain an additional speed boost. The higher the rank, the more speed is granted to the user.


    [Advanced Rank - Combo initialized]</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Skill Name:</td><td width="25%">Skill Rank:</td><td width="25%">Skill Level:</td><td width="25%">Skill Experience:</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Running</td><td width="25%">Advanced</td><td width="25%">Lv. 1</td><td width="25%">20%</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>[Agility skill] The user can now engage in a swift movement that allows faster travel when compared to [Walking]. The higher the rank, the less stamina is expended from using this skill.</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Skill Name:</td><td width="25%">Skill Rank:</td><td width="25%">Skill Level:</td><td width="25%">Skill Experience:</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Pierce</td><td width="25%">Advanced</td><td width="25%">Lv. 1</td><td width="25%">20%</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>[Weapon skill] By using a sharp object or a weapon, the user can inflict a piercing attack that has a percentage chance of ignoring armor [15%]. The higher the rank, the % chance of ignoring armor is increased.


    [Advanced Rank - Combo initialized]</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Skill Name:</td><td width="25%">Skill Rank:</td><td width="25%">Skill Level:</td><td width="25%">Skill Experience:</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Movement Burst</td><td width="25%">Advanced</td><td width="25%">Lv. 1</td><td width="25%">2%</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>[Movement skill] Movement Burst allows a user to envelop himself in a clad of wind, ignoring air resistance, thus creating a burst in agility. The higher the rank, the less stamina is being expended from using this skill.</td></tr></tbody></table>


    Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.<table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Skill Name:</td><td width="25%">Skill Rank:</td><td width="25%">Skill Level:</td><td width="25%">Skill Experience:</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Battle State</td><td width="25%">Beginner</td><td width="25%">Lv. 1</td><td width="25%">5%</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>Battle State is a passive skill that synchronizes the user¡¯s mind to adapt to any circumstance during the course of battle. Battle State will naturally disappear after a certain amount of time has passed.</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Skill Name:</td><td width="25%">Skill Rank:</td><td width="25%">Skill Level:</td><td width="25%">Skill Experience:</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Shift</td><td width="25%">Advanced</td><td width="25%">Lv. 1</td><td width="25%">2%</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>[Movement skill] Shift allows a person¡¯s body to shift towards any direction, given if the body is flexible enough to endure the quick movement. The higher the rank, the less stamina is being expended from using this skill.


    [Advanced Rank - Combo initialized]</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Skill Name:</td><td width="25%">Skill Rank:</td><td width="25%">Skill Level:</td><td width="25%">Skill Experience:</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Quickdraw</td><td width="25%">Advanced</td><td width="25%">Lv. 1</td><td width="25%">2%</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>[Agility + Dexterity skill] The user can draw their weapon using a quick movements with the utilization of their dexterity to decrease the time to draw the object or weapon. The higher the rank, the less time is being used. [Advanced Rank - Combo initialized]</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Skill Name:</td><td width="25%">Skill Rank:</td><td width="25%">Skill Level:</td><td width="25%">Skill Experience:</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Throwing</td><td width="25%">Advanced</td><td width="25%">Lv. 1</td><td width="25%">2%</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>The user can now throw objects. Depending on the throwing movement, the user can register sub-throwing skills that can create a different effect.


    [Sub-skill: Spiral Throw - Penetrate effect]</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Due to strenuous activities, Overdraft skill has been gained</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Skill Name:</td><td width="25%">Skill Rank:</td><td width="25%">Skill Level:</td><td width="25%">Skill Experience:</td></tr><tr><td width="25%">Overdraft</td><td width="25%">Beginner</td><td width="25%">Lv. 1</td><td width="25%">2%</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>Due to excessive usage of stamina and constant low stamina rate, the Overdraft skill allows the user to ignore stamina for a certain amount of time. After Overdraft has been used, the body will gain extra fatigue and a small chance of an abnormal status.</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Fighting Spirit has been gained</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Fighting Spirit has been changed to Bloodlust</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''4''>Bloodlust</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>Bloodlust creates a sinister aura that naturally repels anything that is weaker than the user. Bloodlust will also create a random effect on those that are being repelled. The stronger the user, the more effects it will cause.


    [Bloodlust Effects: Paralyze Lv. 9 - Petrification Lv. 1]</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Combo Initialized</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Sprint + Pierce ¡ú Quick Thrust


    Shift + Pierce ¡ú Dynamic Slash


    Shift + Quickdraw + Pierce ¡ú Fast Slash


    Chain combos


    Sprint + Shift + Pierce + Quickdraw + Pierce + ??? ¡ú Unknown</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''4''>Commander¡¯s Presence</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''4''>The presence of a leader creates an increase in morale and the stronger the user, additional effects can be gained through Commander¡¯s presence.


    [Commander¡¯s Presence Effects: Morale increase - Enemy stun]</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>12 levels gained. +120 stat points available to distribute</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Quest Complete


    +500 exp


    Iron sword gained


    Captain Rank gained</td></tr></tbody></table>


    This is ridiculous...I am glad that I turned off these notifications...how can someone fight when you have these windows popping out of nowhere...I think I will turn these notifications off until I reach a certain level...I think at an interval of 5 levels...that should be good enough...I wonder if the game/world will accept this command...let¡¯s see¡­


    ¡°Turn off notifications for intervals of 5 levels.¡±


    ¡­


    ¡­


    Nothing happened...I don¡¯t know...but...let¡¯s hope it works¡­


    Tomorrow in this world is going to be hectic...it¡¯s almost evening...that means about 10-12 hours passed since I did this...so...about 3 hours have passed in reality...so its approximately noon right now in Japan¡­


    I¡¯ll continue to play the game...let¡¯s just explore the city...I haven¡¯t had much time to look around since all I did yesterday was go to a damn library and read books...I¡¯ll see if I can find the training school here...I want to challenge the instructor¡­


    I quickly leave while there was still a big commotion near the Guard Quarters. Many of the players have been recording the excessive amounts of wolves that I gathered. I need to find some clothes before I look for the training school¡­


    Aha! Wait...I have an inventory...I have yet to see what is in my inventory...if there¡¯s money, I can buy clothes¡­


    ¡°Inventory¡±


    A window appeared and finally displayed my items that I currently have on me.


    I have a starting dagger, the iron sword I gained from the quest, 20 coppers, 10 rye bread and...my training gi!?


    I noticed that my outfit that I wore before entering the game was now in my inventory. I was happy that I didn¡¯t have to replace my outfit and since my beginner clothes are now destroyed, I can just use my own outfit.


    I began to dress myself with the training gi that I previously brought into this world. Normally, people would use the equip option but I had no idea that there was a simple function like that¡­


    After dressing myself, I finally began on my way to look for the training school. The training facility appears to be a building that has a scarecrow dummy as its symbol and many players tend to visit this training school to get a grasp on weapon types.


    The instructor is also skilled in multiple weapon masteries. The instructor will guide people on the weapons and also provides training sessions where adventurers and npcs alike can train on scarecrows.


    The scarecrows are near invincible. The reason for their near invincibility is because they regenerate fast but in order to successfully destroy a scarecrow, a person must use a high-level skill that has a greater damage than the scarecrow¡¯s regenerative properties. To this day, none of the people of Calrius has ever succeeded in destroying a scarecrow, not even the instructor himself.


    I follow the cobblestone paths that intersected within the city of Calrius and I finally made my way to the training school.


    There were multiple new players entering the facility and at the front entrance, the instructor was greeting each person that entered.


    The instructor was a fine-toned man with a tanned skin color. His height was approximately 6 feet and had a cross scar on his right cheek. I could tell that this instructor wasn¡¯t ordinary because of the glint in his eyes. His expression was calm and gentle as he greeted the people that were entering but it immediately changed when his eyes met mine.


    His gaze was scanning my body as if he were getting ready to fight me.


    My gaze shifted towards him and I glared in response.


    The instructor smirked and I gradually closed the distance between us. His expression was getting serious and my pace grew faster.


    The line of people entering grew shorter as the instructor hurried them in and finally as I approached, he immediately brandished his sword and aimed towards me.


    I backed off several feet to give some distance between us and withdrew the iron sword that was in my inventory.


    The instructor smiled and finally spoke...


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 Ch 13: The battle ensues

    On Japan-NHK Worldwide, the spokesperson, Ms. Inahara spoke of the recent video that was circulating around the net. With an abrupt surge of people trying to find information on the person that was on the video, there was another video of that same person but it also triggered a game announcement.


    The first video¡­


    Several players recorded a man that came out of a forest. At first, it seemed like it was a boring video but the appearance that man was in, intrigued everyone. Females gossiping loudly as they wanted to know the name of this person. It was a man that had a bloodied appearance but you could see that the man was quite handsome and muscular.


    The man in the video was half naked with his pants being nearly ripped up and his shirt was discarded. But, that wasn¡¯t the reason why the video skyrocketed¡­


    The reason was after.


    The man began to walk calmly as if he ignored the world in front of him. On his back, there was a vine that connected several...wolves that were impaled through their eye sockets. A lot of censorship was going on because minors do play Infinity but they could not see the bloodied corpse of the wolves, only a black bar that carried a bloody trail.


    Those wolves were actually blood wolves and they may be low in level but they are renowned for their cunning tactics and swift maneuvers.


    They were all dead...and there was a total of 38 blood wolves all together.


    If that enormous amount of dead wolves didn¡¯t shock you, then what comes next will.


    A gigantic 2-meter boar was being dragged by the man at the end of the vine rope. It was big and you could see that it had a broken tusk...but as the boar got closer, they saw that the boar was actually killed by its tusk.


    The tusk was protruding itself on the back of the head.


    Many players were stunned at the appearance. Many wanted to chase after this man because no one has ever experienced this situation before. There were contemporary circumstances that spoke about who would win, this unknown man or the highest leveled person in Infinity.


    But, what came next...was the other video¡­


    It stunned everyone because every single player received a message about this¡­


    The second video showed the same bloodied man talking to a tall man that everyone presumed to be the guard captain. Several people recognized this guard captain because some of them had received quests from this same man. People also knew that this Guard captain was a level 50 NPC Warrior.


    Not even the highest level character, Black Dragon, would argue that the guard captain was indeed strong. The Black Dragon even dueled against this same guard captain but he eventually lost due to the Guard captain having more experience in the way of the sword. Of course, the Black Dragon didn¡¯t publicize his defeat because who would follow a man that lost against data¡­


    Anyways, the video was kind boring but some showed interest as the people recording the videos, all of them received the same stunned effect. They couldn¡¯t determine the source but they knew it was from the man that was shirtless and covered in blood.


    What really shocked everyone was when the bloody man suddenly gripped the Guard Captain¡¯s collar and spoke a few words. It was mostly fizzled out but people could guess that the guard captain was being threatened.


    The video continued and one of the guards was about to sneak up on the man.


    Some of the females gasped in shock as their handsome bloody idol was going to knocked out but then¡­.


    The man threw the guard captain and did a taekwondo tornado kick towards the guard. The sword from the guard was knocked out and then the familiar deadly presence was being emitted.


    The players received their stunned effect again and the guard that tried to sneak up on the bloody man fainted from shock.


    People began to stimulate rumors and they circulated everywhere.


    They saw that the guard captain had sworn loyalty to this unknown man and many of the players thought that this was a city event. They did not know who this unknown man was but after the man spoke...the guy simply left and the video ends.


    People are looking for information on this man because they want to speak to him and find out his level. Obviously that this man was undoubtedly strong enough to make a level 50 NPC warrior kneel and swear loyalty to him and much stronger than the highest leveled player¡­


    But to those that were in the game, after the bloody man left, a game announcement has been made¡­.


    <table><tbody><tr><td> An unknown player has gained the Rank of Captain within the City of Calrius. This player is the first one to achieve a high position within the game. +100 Fame</td></tr></tbody></table>


    Everyone knew that it was probably related to the unknown man and now everyone is searching for the bloody idol¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    After I swore loyalty to this adventurer, the man disappeared quickly before I could ask his name.


    Some of my men continued to batter me with questions but I silenced them. Even as a warrior, I, Theo Rindius could judge a man¡¯s worth. I sensed an unfathomable presence from this adventurer.


    Like he had more experience than any of the royal knights or even the strongest of warriors. I felt that he had more power than any, thus it was rightful to hand of my rank.


    I knew things were lax but I did not expect an expert such as this adventurer to reprimand me. I am quite ashamed at my degrading appearance but luckily...this man took command and is now the Captain of the Guards¡­


    I felt that as long as I stood by this adventurer, I would be able to learn a lot more and of course get stronger.


    Eventually, I will regain my rank back as the man was an adventurer but I will gratefully hand over my position.


    I ordered the men to begin the wolf pelt extraction and began to give out orders to the remaining guards that were on standby. I told them to spread the information that we have a new captain and that tomorrow, they would meet their new captain.


    After issuing the orders, I began to gather the information that our new captain had requested of me. Guard Elric followed me to the side as he was like an assistant to me or some advisor.


    Evening was closing in and every guardsman was busy until it became pitch black. They had successfully extracted the pelts from the wolves and they stored the wolf meat and boar meat within the storage unit.


    The storage unit was located in the Barracks where it was an internal freezer that the city librarian/magician had casted her ice magic to sustain fresh items.


    I quickly dismissed everyone and they all left to do their nightly business, either sleep or raunchy night activities in the southern area.


    Naturally, I stayed in the building where the guard captain¡¯s quarters were located in. I would¡¯ve moved out but it seems that our new captain was out for the night¡­


    As I was about to retire for the night, one of the guardsman that was on night duty was frantically yelling at the Captain¡¯s quarters. I hurriedly went down and opened the door to find a man in armor that was covered in sweat.


    His forehead had beads of sweat and his lips were dry from the long run.


    The frantic night guard spoke¡­


    ¡°Capta--- I mean, Vice Captain! There¡¯s a fight going on at the training school! It is between our new captain and the instructor!¡±


    I panicked¡­


    The instructor...our captain is quite bold...but I don¡¯t even know the outcome of this battle¡­


    I know that our captain has an unfathomable presence that spoke of many experiences but this instructor...was actually...the strongest person within Calrius...he is the personal knight of Lord Kelbrim...the Lord of Calrius...with all those weapon masteries...I don¡¯t know if our new captain will be able to hold off against the instructor¡­


    I left with the frantic guard and we ran towards the training school¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    The instructor spoke in a calm tone¡­


    ¡°So...what is an adventurer like ¡®you¡¯ doing at my training school.¡±


    The instructor was eyeing me cautiously as I maintained a safe distance in between us.


    I relaxed and went into a slightly casual defensive position.


    My training gi was fluttering gently as the wind rustled in between my outfit. My training gi was quite loose as it provided free movement and easy flexibility to adapt to any situation. It was black and white with black being the majority color. The outfit interlined with my figure and created an opening where it gradually revealed a portion of my neck but it naturally covered my chest. The outline of the training gi has a white lining that showed the edges of the outfit and around my waist, there was the belt that held the outfit together from falling off of my body. The belt was black but the outline showed a line of white that was similar to the outline of the entire training gi.


    [Author¡¯s note: Just think of an MMA Training gi that is black with white outline or an old fashioned training gi. Probably like this one http://www.mma-icons.com/images/kuvat/badboy_bjj_gi_black01.jpg</a> or http://images.bigcartel.com/bigcartel/product_images/143269315/max_h-1000+max_w-1000/ok-prem-blk.jpg</a> Both are pretty good since I use both in real life¡­]


    This instructor seems to want to challenge me...I think he sensed the blood that is still on my body¡­


    ¡°I came here to train. Isn¡¯t this the training school?¡±


    I responded to answer the instructor¡¯s question. His expression was a bit forced as his smile was curt. He looked at me and spoke again..


    ¡°You..adventurer...I can tell that you do not need to train here. Leave or I will have to respond with force. This is a place of training, I cannot waste my time with people that do not need my instruction and neither will I tolerate an expert showing off his skills here. Leave now.¡±


    His words were harsh but he still kept his calm expression.


    I wanted to practice a bit¡­


    ¡°I came here to practice. I will not interfere with your lectures...unless you want to spar here...right now?¡±


    ¡°Oho..a mere adventurer is trying to tempt me...Very well, let¡¯s do a sparring match. We shall discard our weapons and replace them with wooden weapons to lessen the degree of harm.¡±


    Mhm...so just wooden weapons...I¡¯ll add more to that condition¡­


    ¡°Okay then, let¡¯s make it only techniques then with no skills. I will fight you with only techniques¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    I quickly toss my iron sword back into my inventory and the instructor sheathed his weapon too. The instructor took off his sword belt and laid it on the floor as the door to his training school opened up. One of his assistants came trotting out the door, carrying a wooden barrel that had wooden weapons protruding out the top of the barrel.


    The assistant was a woman that was approximately in her early twenties. She had light blue hair that matched her azure colored eyes. Her face was innocent and she had a happy expression despite carrying a barrel full of wooden items. She had a developed body that rivaled most of the females in the city and even was comparable to the librarian that I met yesterday. She wore a warrior¡¯s outfit and she had a short dagger on her side.


    The woman laid the barrel on the floor and smiled at me and the instructor, but her eyes were fixated on me.


    Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.


    Her eyes were glued onto me as if she wanted to do something but she was very hesitant on doing so. While she stared at me, I smiled back in response and her face ruptured in a faint red expression. She left the area and ran back into the training school.


    The instructor already eyed the wooden weapon that he was going to choose but I still haven¡¯t found mine...I need a long wooden place that is slightly curved towards the end, a direct replication of a katana would be excellent¡­


    I continued to look through the various wooden weapons and found a slightly old wooden weapon that had the appearance that it had clearly been used and it was worn out. I grabbed the old weapon and saw the instructor flinch at my choice.


    The wooden sword had the identical configuration of a Katana blade but without the hilt. It was a worn out bokken that many practitioners use for practice in kendo and various sword styles.


    I wielded the weapon and faced the instructor that had a calm expression but I can tell that he¡¯s shakened by my choice of weaponry. The instructor spoke before the start of the match..


    ¡°Okay, adventurer. What will be the stakes if one of us wins and one of us loses. What are your conditions.¡±


    His posture was serious as he asked this question and I began to think¡­


    I am going to stay in this city for a bit...I won¡¯t be able to leave the city until the four weeks of city protection is lifted. I am the new captain so I will be busy with that but I also need to learn some other things about this world¡­


    I read the books about this continent and I needed more information about Elreim. I plan to go on an adventure to establish myself in this world and eventually build a house somewhere and live on the resources of the land.


    This instructor is the personal knight of the lord and I need support from a higher position if I end up in political conflict...I see¡­


    ¡°I want you to set up a private meeting between me and your lord. These are the conditions I set.¡±


    The instructor¡¯s face goes pale at my words.


    Almost immediately, he blurted¡­


    ¡°I refuse!¡±


    ¡°Why!¡±


    I exclaimed. What is so hard about setting up a private meeting...aren¡¯t you the personal knight of the lord¡­


    ¡°Because the lord will not meet a commoner in private. He needs to have an explicit reasoning for your attendance.¡±


    I see...well, I may be a commoner and an adventurer...but I recently became the Captain of the Guards that protect this city¡­


    ¡°I am a commoner true...and my reasoning may be insufficient...but I am the Captain of the Calrius city guards!¡±


    ¡°You lie! How dare you lie during a conditioning proposal!¡±


    The instructor was irritated but I didn¡¯t lie. There was an unspoken rule about lying while declaring conditions during a match. It shows a person¡¯s worth that they are truly worthless if they lie while setting the conditions.


    It also shows that the person is untrustworthy and will betray you at the last moment.


    The instructor dashed towards me while holding his wooden sword.


    The instructor¡¯s weapon was a wooden replica of his weapon that was concealed in the sheath. It was made of a slightly darker wood that seems to be stronger than the average wooden weapons.


    He purposely mixed in a few good and bad weapons to show a person¡¯s judgement of good weapons.


    As he rushed forward, he began to incline his sword attack and strike towards my head. I responded with a quick parry and deflected his attack with ease.


    His sword slid down the side as I parried and with my strength, I bashed the instructor that lost his balance due to my parry.


    The instructor was pushed back several feet as my strength was overpowering. But the area around me had visible signs of destruction. Below me, there were cracks that formed from my bash and my feet slowly formed embedded formations in the ground.


    The instructor was astonished at my strength but his expression returned to normal. He looked at me and I glared back.


    My blood felt a sense of thrill as it did back in the forest. I recognized that this instructor was a worthy opponent and strong enough to be the lord¡¯s personal knight.


    I changed my stance and got into an sword-style position. Both of my hands gripped the wooden sword and the pointed edge pointing towards the instructor. My stance was confusing for the instructor as it felt odd to him.


    He felt strange as he looked towards my stance and saw that I did not have an absolute opening. Most stances usually expose a portion that would be determined as the absolute opening but he clearly could not find it.


    My body was feeling excited as I could fight against this instructor. None of the sword practitioners in the real world could offer a good fight but this was a new world. There obviously were unknown techniques and I wanted to test myself against this new world.


    I saw that the instructor was cautious so he was waiting for my attack. The instructor wanted to see if he could defend against my attacks¡­


    Alright then, you want to tempt me¡­


    I posed myself forward and quickly dashed into a blur. The instructor was astonished at my burst of speed and I reappear towards his side. His stance had weak opening positions towards the side of his body and I took advantage of that.


    My weapon aimed towards his side and before he could intercept my attack, I had already connected. My weapon sunk a few inches into his body and he was flung backwards in pain. My sword was clearly faster and he was stunned for a few moments.


    The instructor looked at me in disbelief that his guard was broken.


    I finally spoke to explain..


    ¡°Your stance is definitely good but you have openings. Even though you can guard against most attacks, you cannot deflect attacks that are faster than you. You are experienced but there are better stances that will help you on fighting people that are faster than you.¡±


    I explained my reasoning as to why he lost against my attack.


    The instructor knew that his attacks were a slower than mine and at first he was sure that he stopped my attack but I had already connected.


    His expression was struggling to maintain a calm impression but the next words stunned me¡­


    ¡°Alright...let¡¯s use skills now...I will adhere to your conditions but first we will fight with skills!¡±


    His body was enwrapped in a white glow and his speed increased several times. I was stunned and his sword connected as it struck my shoulder. I reflexively grabbed my shoulder as it shuddered in pain. I glared at the instructor that used a body-enhancement skill.


    My eyes were glaring and the instructor flinched at my presence.


    The atmosphere was getting damp as my bloodlust was beginning to activate. I held the bokken in my right hand and slowly began to walk forward.


    The instructor noticed that I hadn¡¯t said a single word in protest towards his declaration of using skills.


    He began to vanish in a blur and appeared in front of me to attack again but I had already deflected the attack. He was astonished but he continued his assault but it was futile.


    My wooden sword was deflecting his every move as he appeared in blurs all around me. The instructor was feeling the dread of my bloodlust but he wasn¡¯t affected by the effects because he was quite powerful too.


    The instructor noted that his attacks weren¡¯t getting through and his body began to emit a infusion glow of white and orange. His assault increased and his strength was multiplied.


    I felt angry that I was slowly beginning to lose.


    My defensive attacks could no longer ward off the instructor¡¯s new attacks and I had to result in parrying. Several attacks got through and my body winced in pain.


    I felt that this instructor was really strong and I felt really happy.


    The real world no longer had strong opponents because majority of them had already died.


    My body was getting stiff under the instructor¡¯s assault and the clashes began to resonate in loud bangs.


    This normally was not possibile with wooden swords but somehow the instructor¡¯s sword and mine were made out of different wooden materials.


    His was slightly darker in color while mine was lighter in color.


    It was as if we had polar opposites and my weapon was also worn down unlike the instructor¡¯s pristine wooden weapon.


    The area around the training school began to gather noise and naturally groups of people gathered around. Majority of the training players and NPCs within the training school had already came out and they watched the entire match. The instructor¡¯s assistant was eyeing me as she watched from the sidelines and she could not help but worry.


    I continued to parry his attacks while struggling to maintain a defensive position. My forward walk slowly began to slow down and I halted while receiving multiple sword strikes from opposite directions.


    The instructor was gaining speed and his attacks were steadily getting stronger. My body stance was now defensive and I could not retaliate because everytime I tried, the instructor would attack on the other side of my body.


    It was getting dangerous as the attacks increased...but my expression was happy.


    I feel that this instructor should feel the techniques of my shishou¡­


    My blood was boiling for competition and finally I started¡­


    My swings began to gradually get faster and faster. My parries began to turn into deflective strikes and eventually I was on par in attacking speed and I began to retaliate against the instructor.


    My presence grew stronger and the surrounding crowd of people were stunned as they were in my area of effect.


    My sword began to change in variations and my body shifted into different positions to thwart the imposing instructor. His body was increasing but my attack speed was much faster and he could not follow up on my variant style that changed constantly.


    The clash of wooden swords were creating a natural field of dread as every clash resonated in the air. The nearby buildings that had windows were broken from the clashes and several of the players began to feel the backlash and some lost hp while within a safe zone.


    Suddenly¡­


    My body began to radiate a black aura and it counteracted against the instructor¡¯s white and orange glow. My attacks became more dreadful and menacing as it created a black flair that occurred every time when it clashed with the instructor¡¯s weapon.


    The notifications were pinging constantly but I had disabled the notification display.


    The instructor¡¯s expression went grim and suddenly the area was engulfed in a darkness sphere...


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Previous</a></td><td width="25%">Main</a></td><td width="25%">Next</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

 Ch 14: Situations

    My name is Rindall Gren and I am the Calrius city instructor. Not only that but I am also a renowned warrior. Within the continent of Elreim, if you were to mention my name, they would prostrate in reverence due to my outstanding achievements. But even with all those achievements, they pale in comparison to my other job title as Lord Kelbrim¡¯s personal knight.


    As his personal knight, I swore under absolute loyalty under Lord Kelbrim.


    It wasn¡¯t astonishing because I am indeed a personal friend of the Lord and I regard him as my brother. Lord Kelbrim also regards me as his brother but while in public occasions, no one can know about that.


    After establishing my title and fame, I became the city instructor to help Kelbrim¡¯s city to continue to grow. The warriors would either be trained by my instructions or by the assistance of my assistants.


    Speaking of assistants, there¡¯s a pesky one that keeps slipping into my training school.


    This so called assistant is Lord Kelbrim¡¯s daughter...She tends to refer me as uncle though.


    Lord Kelbrim, his wife along with his son and daughter, of course know about my relations between me and Lord Kelbrim. Therefore, his daughter tends to address me as uncle, only in private though.


    Lord Kelbrim¡¯s daughter is Lori Anna Kelbrim. She¡¯s quite shy in front of the newcomers but she is really adept at using daggers. If I had to compare, she¡¯d last about 5 minutes against Lord Kelbrim¡¯s assassins, which is considerably powerful. Lord Kelbrim¡¯s assassins were personally trained by me and they are masters in the art of assassinations. Thus, making Lori¡¯s achievement quite outstanding.


    She¡¯s a quick learner but even if she¡¯s my ¡°niece¡±, I can¡¯t have the Lord¡¯s daughter here at my training school. It would cause quite a commotion.


    Unfortunately for me, she developed an assassin secret-- The art of disguise but all she really does is change her hair color and some facial features.


    People would often shriek in astonishment that Lord Kelbrim¡¯s daughter is working under me but they were fooled by the slight changes in appearances and many of the local guards were trying to woo the girl but as her uncle in secret, I strictly forbid anyone from approaching her and she thanked me for that.


    My niece is quite shy due to her introvert personality but she¡¯s slowly getting rid of that personality, thanks to being one of my assistants.


    Of course, Lord Kelbrim knows of this situation but he¡¯s more than happy since her daughter was slowly beginning to talk to more people.


    Lori is quite the beautiful woman and being Lord Kelbrim¡¯s daughter, obviously she would have many suitors.


    While having those suitors, Lord Kelbrim made a silent pact with me and every time a nobleman or some sort of notable man would seek my niece¡¯s hand in marriage, Lord Kelbrim would send him to my training school to prove his worth.


    Of course, I beat them senseless.


    How could they be weak and expect to protect my niece.


    They at least have to be several times stronger than her and actually hold a chance against me.


    Another day was passing as it was nearing late afternoon, early evening. I noticed an influx of adventurers coming to my training school. Normally, I would be fine because my school is actually running around the clock for those that are dedicated to their training.


    As the crowd was beginning to file in towards the entrance of my school, I noticed a man at the far end of the crowd.


    This man wore a black outfit with white streaks at the edge lining. The outfit wasn¡¯t much as it seemed to be some sort of training uniform but what shocked me was the smell of blood radiating from this man.


    As an expert warrior, naturally I had the ability to sense other people¡¯s potential and also able to perceive a person¡¯s aura.


    I sensed an unimaginable force emanating from this man that stood at the end of the line. None of the people that were rushing inside paid attention to this man but I noticed it first. This man was indeed an expert warrior but not only that, he was barely covering the stench of blood, which meant that he had recently killed someone or something.


    My eyes were locked onto him as I saw him first and he immediately noticed my gaze. My body trembled under a slight pressure but I shook it off immediately.


    I immediately thought to myself¡­


    ¡®This man is not weaker than I am...he¡¯s quite powerful and his presence is daunting...I better remove him from my establishment before things get rowdy...¡¯


    There were only a select few within the Elreim continent that could stimulate my defensive presence. Those select few were among the highest, trained experts that lived in seclusion but I had never seen a man like the one right in front of me. Even among adventurers, none could emanate such a presence that would alert me...but this man was an adventurer...and he is quite strong¡­


    The crowd of new adventurers and rookie guards was slowly diminishing as they entered my training school. My school was quite the large establishment since it was personally ordered built by Lord Kelbrim himself and he made it in accordance to my preferences as a training facility. As the crowd became smaller, gradually the man drew in closer as if he wanted to enter the school.


    Why would such an expert try to enter my facility. This is quite shameful as he is an expert already. He need not to show off but rather he needs to get away from my establishment!


    This is a training school for beginners and I will not tolerate people with ill intent within my training grounds.


    Before long, the man was directly in front of me and his presence was even more ruthless. Along with the man¡¯s presence, the underlying appearance of blood beneath his clothes were amplifying his aura. However, I did not lose my bearing as I was experienced with this.


    I immediately responded in defense towards the unknown expert and we casually exchanged words.


    Before I knew it, the situation escalated and now I am to exchange techniques with this expert.


    I felt quite stupid because I let the situation escalate this far. I should¡¯ve sent this man away instead of arguing¡­


    Using a personal gift from Lord Kelbrim, the Astir ring on my right hand, index finger, I sent a message to my Niece, Lori to hurry and flee through the back entrance of the school. I did not want her to be in harms way but before I could enter the building¡­.my niece came out through the entrance while holding the sparring wooden weapons.


    But what shocked me the most was that she wasn¡¯t in her disguise.


    She had her normal appearance while wearing her dagger on her side.


    I would¡¯ve yelled in protest but I continued to eye the expert in front of me. I wouldn¡¯t dare avert my eyes from this expert. Who knows when he might strike at Lord Kelbrim¡¯s daughter--my niece.


    While looking at the expert, he smiled towards the direction of Lori as she laid down the barrel of wooden weapons. My gaze gradually drifted towards Lori and her face was indeed...flushed pink¡­


    In all of my time of protecting my wonderful niece...I had never seen such a serene expression on her face. None of her suitors were able to gain favor in her eyes...yet this unknown man gained her heart with a simple smile¡­


    I knew that this man was indeed strong and he was quite handsome, even more so than those annoying suitors of my niece¡­


    BUT!


    I will not give her up so easily¡­


    I immediately picked up my Black sandwood weapon. It was modeled after my Xilfer Sword that I acquired within a dungeon.


    Black sandwood was a unique type of wood that came from a Sandtree within the Sakun Desert. Sandtrees are normally red colored but during a special occasion where rain and lightning would strike upon the Desert, the lightning discharge will force a select few of the sandtrees and change their properties to a different type.


    Most sandtrees are very brittle which no one would use as a wooden piece but Black Sandwood was quite durable and more stronger than the average trees.


    Some people are still shocked at the contrast between Red sandwood and Black sandwood since they are naturally the same but the lightning discharge would somehow change the wood¡¯s properties.


    My wooden weapon was dark black and I knew that this man wouldn¡¯t stand a chance unless¡­


    He chose Libril Wood¡­


    Libril Wood looks typically like white oak however, they are extremely durable. It would take quite a bit to eventually wear down the durable wood and the man chose it¡­


    In comparison, Black Sandwood and Libril Wood don¡¯t have much difference except for their opposite colors.


    I felt astonished at the man¡¯s excellent choice and my evaluation of him became better but still¡­that¡¯s my niece¡­


    FInally, I spoke to the man about the exchange at the end of the duel.


    A respectable duel must have rewards and consequences for the winner and loser. I asked him for his appeal...


    But then...the words he spoke next astonished me....I felt quite shocked that such a expert as himself would want to meet Lord Kelbrim. Is he trying to play me as a fool...he must be either stupid or ignorant because I will not casually let anyone meet Lord Kelbrim even if he was an expert. Who knows what this adventurer wants to do with Lord Kelbrim¡­


    I refused his offer simply because I cannot trust him. But then, his next words infuriated me¡­


    Even if this man was a commoner, he is still an expert and he should know the rules¡­


    How dare he...such an insolent man...lying while settling the terms of the duel¡­


    He is with no doubt, a untrustworthy man. I can¡¯t believe I thought of allowing this pathetic man a chance of marriage with my niece!


    I immediately launched forward in a dash and clashed with this expert. Our weapons clashed and he successfully parried my long reach of an attack. I continued my assault even though my first strike was deflected but suddenly, I was bashed by the unknown man¡¯s push.


    The man exerted a tremendous force that actually pushed me a few feet backwards. I was astonished at the man¡¯s strength. I glared at him in protest. He began to exhibit an unnatural aura of bloodlust.


    The unknown man glared back at me but I continued to hold my stance. I have faced countless times where my life was in danger due to an immense pressure. This isn¡¯t new to me!


    But, the unknown man began to shift his attack stance. It was odd and yet the stance had no opening...it was unusual¡­


    No martial stance should be absolute¡­but here it was...I have never seen such a strange form. It was murderous but brilliant. This man was an unrivaled expert. I want to test his attacks¡­


    I shifted into my defensive stance and waited for the man to initial the attack.


    Suddenly, the man disappeared but within a split second, he reappeared within my field.


    Such speed!


    I barely noticed the air change as this man sprinted forward to close the gap between us. The man attacked my side which was open during my defensive stance. It was an ploy to trick my opponents and while they aimed towards my side, I would use my downslash as a retaliation force.


    However¡­


    His strike was too quick!


    It already impacted in my side, causing my liver to receive a harsh blow from the wooden weapon. My body quivered slightly from the pain and my body was shifted back a few feet.


    The speed of his sword is so unnatural! Most beast attacks could not reach that fast and the ones that could were often Class A-Class S beasts!


    My guard was broken and my liver hurts. I don¡¯t think I can keep this up without using my abilities¡­


    The unknown man began to explain why his attack could connect.


    He spoke about my openings and I knew that already. I wouldn¡¯t leave my openings out carelessly. This man is clearly trying to help me but he still lied...I cannot accept such an expert¡­


    This time...I will end it!


    I partially agreed to his earlier proposal about meeting Lord Kelbrim and before he could relax, I initiated my body strengthening skill and dashed towards him while spouting the changes in the duel. This is normally considered cowardly but I cannot tolerate his behavior anymore.


    My body was wrapped in a white glow and I began to accelerate.


    The unknown expert was releasing his bloodlust in a repulsive manner but he cannot affect me that easily. I began my retaliation and slashed at every opportunity that was presented to me.


    My attacks weren¡¯t succeeding due to my unequalled strength and speed. I activated my attack boost skill and my body was fusing white and orange all together in a combination glow.


    My attacks became fierce and I finally began to overpower the man.


    I was finally succeeding and I continued my assault.


    My heart felt happy that my attacks were reaching but then¡­


    All of a sudden, the unknown man began to emit a powerful aura. Quite different from his bloodlust...it was much more stronger and I felt dread emanating from the man.


    My speed and strong attacks were successful at first but then suddenly, the man¡¯s speed accelerated. Within a few seconds, his attacks were beginning to reach my attack speed and eventually I was guarding against the man¡¯s weird assault.


    The unknown man shifted his body into irregular attack patterns and struck my body at impossible angles.Lucky for me, my speed at least allowed me to deflect some of his attacks but his strikes were connecting.


    Every time our swords connected, a burst of darkness would erupt from the man¡¯s weapon. My body was gradually stiffening due to the dreadful presence and his pressure was increasing.


    Suddenly, everything went black around me and the unknown man¡­


    I was shrouded in darkness and my body felt numb. I could not feel anything but then¡­


    From the shadows, there was a glint of a white wooden blade that flickered from all around me. The blade flickered endlessly and before I knew it¡­


    My body received an endless amount of attacks. The strikes continued on and on without rest and my body jolted from the massive amount of strikes that came in a burst. My mind was clouded and I could not react to the darkness and thus I lost consciousness¡­.


    ¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    A sphere of darkness erupted between me and the instructor. My body was reacting to the immediate situation as if the darkness was a part of my body. My interface which displayed my health, mana and stamina pool began to fluctuate differently and the bars suddenly disappeared.


    Not only that, within the darkness that covered my body, I heard a voice that beckoned me. A voice that was silent to the world but signifying to only my ears. A window notification pinged in the background as I felt a powerful presence that echoed within the darkness and suddenly it faded away¡­


    The darkness continued and suddenly..


    My body was accelerating all around the instructor and the shadow of darkness reminded me of Shishou¡¯s ultimate techniques.


    The Kurogane clan had multiple techniques that varied from multiple attacking weapons to various hand-to-hand combat styles but among them were ten special techniques that can only be unlocked under special circumstances. Each technique will have their specific strength but only when you apply them in succession, will you experience the full force of the skills.


    Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators!


    [box border=1 cellpadding=0 cellspacing=3 width=80% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5]<tr>[col colspan=4 valign=top width=100% bordercolor=#202020 bgcolor=#f5f5f5]The first form -- Shadow Stalk


    Under the shadow of the night, Shadow Burst will implement body to become part of the darkness. While enveloped in darkness, the body will accelerate faster until a sudden halt and the body will attack at every angle which the body had accelerated into. The first form enables the practitioner to attack endlessly as long as the body accelerated within that point of time before the halt.[/col]</tr>[/box]


    This definitely is Shadow stalk...Shishou I got it---


    Before I could reminisce in the memories of my shishou, a red notification suddenly appeared and bright red letters were engraved in my interface¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td>FORCE LOG-OUT</td></tr></tbody></table>


    As soon as I saw those bright, red letters, my vision suddenly flashed bright and I saw absolute nothing but white. The darkness was replaced by this white room and I felt strange¡­


    Normally, the safety system which implemented the force log-out option would¡¯ve disconnected the user by cutting the connection between the game and the mind but...my body is literally within the game. Now, I am floating in a white plane and there is absolutely nothi---


    Before I could assess my situation, a mist of dark miasma began to erupt a few feet in front of me. I stared at the anomaly and I couldn¡¯t do anything. The safety system should¡¯ve sent me back home but I am stuck here with whatever is trying to appear.


    The dark miasma began to flush out of control and suddenly a figure was being formed.


    Darkness began to wrap around itself and limbs were being formed simultaneously as it continues to erupt even more. Dark scales were appearing all over the limbs and even dark liquid began to drop from those limbs as the dark miasma continued to create the pieces of whatever creature that was being formed.


    After the limbs, came a giant body structure that was approximately 20 feet in length. The miasma was spiraling out of control as it continuously formed the body. From the exterior of the body, there was a giant tail that ruptured from the darkness and was completely half-submerged with a puddle of dark liquid.


    The miasma began to form a giant reptilian monster from lore.


    The head and wings were finally the last to form from the miasma. The dark miasma spiked around the head and began to form the structure. After completion, the head was darker than the rest of its body and had a pair of crimson eyes that bled dark liquid. The wings finally formed and with the wings spread apart, I could see the dark spikes formed at the bone tendons that were covered by dark skin.


    The reptilian monster was a giant black dragon that appeared from the darkness.


    It had menacing fangs that dripped the mysterious dark liquid that singed as it came in contact with the white floor. The limbs of the black dragon had claws that were sharp and elongated to add more impact to its presence. The claws were also releasing the mysterious dark liquid that dripped on the floor.


    As I continued to stare at the appearance of the dragon, the dragon locked its eyes onto my body. His crimson eyes were glaring at my body and gradually, I locked my eyes onto the black dragon.


    I wasn¡¯t scared at the sudden appearance of the dragon.


    I was more astonished and excited at such an incredible experience. The dragon¡¯s appearance felt very real and his presence was more dreadful than mine. I may be an experienced killer that executed multiple assassinations and ended a war but this dragon lived much longer than I did. His body was gigantic and the dark miasma was pressuring my existence as I stood in front of it. I did not feel defeat but simply I was in awe of its¡¯ presence.


    As I stared at the black dragon, his eyes began to flicker and suddenly a voice ruptured from the blank white plane.


    The voice spoke¡­


    [You...are...the...one¡­]


    Huh? The one for whaaat???


    [I...choose...you¡­]


    Choosing me? What for?


    [I..acknowledge you¡­.as..my...successor¡­]


    Successor? Black Dragon, you choose me?


    [Young one...head towards the north...Between the border...of Elreim...and Milreim¡­]


    Is this black dragon giving me directions...Okay..Is this a quest!? Alright, I will do it. Sounds like adventure anyways¡­


    [At the...northern part of Elreim and Milreim...find my tomb...and release me¡­]


    Ohh..tomb? Did this black dragon die?


    [From my tomb...once I am released...you will inherit----]


    Inherit what? WHAT IS IT!?


    Suddenly, the black dragon¡¯s entire body flickered and immediately vanished. The dark miasma completely disappeared and the dark liquid was no more. The area turned completely back to white and then¡­


    Everything went dark.


    And, I returned back to Earth¡­


    I saw the top portion of the pod and it automatically opened to release me from the capsule. I finally wore my training gi but I had the white, worn down bokken in my hand. It was radiating a white glow but other than that, it looked like a regular bokken that was painted white. I quickly exit the capsule and went out of the capsule room.


    As I came out the door, I saw the clock which had the time at 1240. It was barely afternoon and it was good that I came out around this time because I felt hungry and I want to eat something soon.


    I sensed Hiromi from the second floor. She had abruptly gotten up as soon as I reappeared back into the capsule. I head towards the basement that had my training facility. My basement was extended further underground with a total of 3 rooms.


    As I entered the basement, I saw in a corner where the rest of my wooden practice weapons were located. All of them were similar in color--Brown and I simply placed the white bokken together with the rest. It looked quite ridiculous as there was a faint white glow emanating from the bokken.


    I left the basement and reentered the main floor of my house and saw that Hiromi was sitting on the couch with a flustered expression. Her cheeks were slightly reddened and now that I know that Hiromi was a female...I began to notice her effeminate features...I stared at her for a few seconds and she was turning bright red from embarrassment. I quickly took my seat in front of her and finally I spoke¡­


    ¡°Ta-- I mean, Hiromi...You are free to do what you want, alright? Whether if you want to leave or stay by my side. Before anything else happens, just remember that we have to take it slow alright. I know about your feelings now and I can¡¯t return them in favor just yet. We have to slowly get there, okay?¡±


    Hiromi was astonished at my words but she nodded in acceptance. Her face was bright red and I felt that she was determined about something. Her aura was fierce and her eyes had a glint of seriousness that seemed that she was going to try harder than before.


    I think things might get worse¡­..but I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll hate it¡­


    Finally...I remembered something¡­


    I did say that I was gonna go to school again. I think I should attend Tokyo University (Tokyo Daigaku--Todai) but first I should make a call to the prime minister so he can help me¡­


    I stood up and pulled out my phone as I walked towards my laptop. I turned on the laptop and began to search for the classes that I will be taking. I¡¯ll probably major in Astrophysics and Computer Programming.


    I dialed the Prime Minister¡¯s private phone number and within 5 seconds, the Prime Minister answered¡­


    ¡°Hello, is this Ichiro-kun calling?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Prime Minister. I would like to inquire a few things and maybe ask for your assistance¡±


    ¡°Ah, yes, yes. Of course, go ahead.¡±


    ¡°I would like to enroll in Todai. I know it is literally in the middle of the spring semester but I want to enroll now. I know you can pull a few strings for me.¡±


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯ll be easy but you do know that you have to take an aptitude test to see if you are qualified to attend Todai. Their requirements are pretty hefty.¡±


    ¡°I know that. I¡¯ll be fine. Before you say it, what do I have to owe you for this favor. I know that there¡¯s going to be some speculations and some information to be altered so I would like to extend my services towards you in return for enrolling me into Todai.¡±


    ¡°Ah, I wasn¡¯t going to ask for anything but now that you say so...I would like for your assistance in the Military Tech Advancement facility. It will be a co-joint facility between the newly formed Japanese military and the Kurogane Corporation. Your military rank will be transferred and all you have to do is attend the research facility and give a few pointers. I know of your condition of not returning to the battlefield so instead of putting you as the Commander of the JPN forces, I chose the second best which is a Military researcher...you will still be the highest ranking personnel in the entire Japanese force but you will not extend your support into the battlefield, thus meeting your condition of not returning to the field.¡±


    I see...well, this works out fine but I still feel reluctant about this...I¡¯ll be reinstated...again...and they probably can constrict me if they go to war...but that war is over...so, I think it¡¯ll be fine...


    ¡°Mhm..I really am hesitating but I know I can¡¯t force the Japanese Government to do what I want to do. Well, I could but I do not want to abuse my right as Shishou¡¯s successor so I¡¯ll agree on your condition, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.¡±


    ¡°Excellent. I already informed my cabinet members and they will finalize your enrollment. All you have to do is submit your information at the University. Also, whenever you go to submit your information, please contact me so I can call the Dean of Todai and he¡¯ll personally greet you.¡±


    ¡°Alright, just contact the dean that I will be arriving tomorrow early morning...I will terminate this call and make sure to tell Emperor Naruhito to stop trying to investigate information about me. I am looking at the Emperor¡¯s network channel right now and he is trying to dig up information about me. Please tell him on my behalf.¡±


    ¡°I see...I will make sure to tell him directly¡­¡±


    I ended the call and I looked at the Emperor¡¯s networking channel and began to terminate his connection from my side. Almost instantly, Emperor Naruhito¡¯s channel was terminated and I finally turned off the laptop.


    I noticed that Hiromi was staring at me as I was on the phone with the Prime Minister. After I ended everything, I smiled towards her and she turned away in embarrassment.


    I should stop bullying her...but...oh well...I think I¡¯ll accept her. She isn¡¯t a bad woman and her features are quite alluring...I want to see what¡¯s under ther---


    What the hell am I thinking about¡­


    Anyways...I think I¡¯ll go visit my sister. She¡¯s almost done with her afternoon classes. Hana is a freshman in College but she¡¯s really smart. I think I¡¯ll pick her up as a surprise.


    Most likely, Keiji told her but she probably doesn¡¯t know where I live and I¡¯ll send a message to Mom and Dad. They probably won¡¯t miss their ungrateful son but I want to make sure they know that I am back¡­


    My sister attends Keio university (Keidai) so I should be there in a few hours, just in time for her afternoon classes to end.


    I stand up and look at Hiromi and spoke¡­


    ¡°Hiromi..I will be going okay. If you need to eat something, there should be some food in the fridge. I am going to pay a visit to my sister and I will be back around late afternoon--early evening okay?¡±


    Hiromi was still beet red from embarrassment but she nodded.


    You know...Hiromi has always helped me. I never really gave her anything even when I asked her in the past. She never asked for anything and I feel bad that I thought that she was a guy named Takashi. I still blame Shishou for the misunderstanding but I am partially to blame too. Well, as long as she accepts me...here goes nothing¡­


    I quickly close the distance between an embarrassed Hiromi and me. She was flustered thus she couldn¡¯t sense my approach. I leaned forward and kissed her forehead¡­


    ¡°Wha-wha-wha!?¡±


    Hiromi stuttered in exclamation and fainted from happiness.


    I simply sigh at the shy woman..


    Hiromi...consider that my gift to you and there¡¯s more to come later in the future¡­


    I exit my house and locked the door. I walk to my driveway and pulled out my keys which had a black device attached to the set of keys. I pressed the button on the black device and suddenly, my driveway shuddered and began to split in half. Upon being split, there was a mechanical platform that had a black car on top of it.


    The mechanical platform adjusted itself where the driveway used to be and I unlocked my car.


    My car was a custom JZA80 Black Supra with sleek black finish.


    <b>Spoiler</b> : <input type=''button'' value=''Show'' class=''spoilerButton''>For specs, this is my custom finish of my supra irl


    - 10:1 compression built motor, Eagle rods, CP pistons, ACL race bearings, ARP head studs and main studs


    - Precision 6466 dual ball bearing turbo, 0.81A/R with SP cover, 41psi


    - OS Giken R4C quadruple disc clutch


    - Fuel Injector Clinic 2150cc injectors x6, dual Walbro 416 E85 pumps, dual feed center return Titan Motorsports fuel rail, -6 AN feeds and lines, stock return, Aeromotive FPR, GM flex fuel sensor


    - ProEFI 128 standalone ECM, self-tuned, flex fuel enabled


    - 19x9.5F and 19x11.0R HRE C95 wheels (street)


    - Tires for racing are Nitto NT-01 R compound 275x40x18 in the rear


    I enter my vehicle and as I drove off the platform, I reengaged the mechanical system and the platform rose back down into the ground and my driveway appeared again from the outer slits of the ground surface.


    I make my way towards Tokyo and speed along the highway¡­


    <table><tbody><tr><td width="25%">Previous</a></td><td width="25%">Main</a></td><td width="25%">Next</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

 Ch 15: Introductions and Security!

    After two hours of driving, I finally arrive in Tokyo.


    As I drove here, I noticed that I hadn¡¯t changed and I was wearing my training gi...and I was hungry also...so I decided to stop at a clothing store while I was in the city.


    Normally, the city people in Tokyo wouldn¡¯t bat an eye at a person that came out of a supra but all of a sudden, I felt their gaze all on me. From all around the street, the females were gazing at me. That same gaze that Elis would direct at me when she stared at me from afar. That predatory gaze that signifies when a woman is in heat...Yes, that kind of gaze.


    All I wore was a training gi so I wasn¡¯t wearing much to enhance my appearance but seriously...I need to get away from here.


    All I am going to do is buy some clothes and get some food then pick up my sister, who is about to get out of class in about 30 minutes.


    I ignore the multiple gazes and many murmurs that are directed at me and I enter the store.


    Within the clothing store, there was a multitude of clothing apparel that were separated from child, man or woman and there were various custom clothings that were on racks.


    While I escaped the predatory gazes from outside, I notice that the receptionist was eyeing me as well. She wore a woman¡¯s uniform that was white and her vest was partially black. Her face was quite the beauty as it had a slight touch up of make-up and no blemishes on the surface of her face. Her body figure was being accentuated by the tight fit of the uniform and she had that receptionist vibe. Her chest had a nice pair of mounds that appeared seductively under the tight fitting of the uniform. She had shoulder length hair that seemed to match her black eyes that stared at me.


    On her left hand, she had a wedding ring which suggested that she was married but her gaze towards me wasn''t appropriate...


    After avoiding her gaze, I finally picked out an outfit that I can wear when I pick up my sister in surprise. My outfit was a black t-shirt with some black sleek pants. It was awfully normal but I don¡¯t like to waste money and it was my fault on forgetting to change clothes when I came out of the pod.


    I changed in the fitting room and the shirt was binding close to my chest, enhancing my muscles. I felt ridiculously stupid but this is a bit appropriate when meeting my sister. I took my training clothes and went to the receptionist that continued to stare at my body. I told her that I would pay for the clothes as I wore them and then I finally paid.


    The receptionist wanted to say something but I immediately left after paying without even receiving my receipt.


    The gazes were now directed at me again and I rushed to the nearest food store. I ran up street and saw many signs that had titles that pertained to the Infinity game and multiple Kurogane sponsored ads. I briefly gazed at the signs and continued my speed walk towards a food store.


    I found one that sold pastries and I immediately beamed in happiness.


    Pastries are something that will never betray me. Such sweetness and utter goodness, it truly is a blessing from the pastry chef.


    I bought a bag of croissants and a couple of scones to eat on the way.


    I ran out of the pastry shop and went immediately to my car while ignoring the females that started to run after me and I drove away. I continued to munch on my pastries and made my way to Keio University¡­.


    ¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    It was a normal day at Uni where I would attend my freshman classes. Everyone knows me as the little sister of Keiji, who runs the Kurogane Corporation that is directly located here in Tokyo but no one knows about my other brother¡­


    Since I was little, Keiji and I would look up at our older brother that took care of us since our parents were always abroad handling the family business. Everyday, I would endlessly call to my older brother, ¡°Onii-chan! Onii!¡± and he would always appear in front of me like he always would.


    He is my older brother and by far the one I love. Of course, I like Keiji nii-san but I felt something more towards my older brother. He always appeared as a hero in my eyes unlike my brother, Keiji. At first, I didn¡¯t know what these feelings were until that day when I found out about my older brother...and that wench...Kanako¡­


    One day, my older brother was returning home, I noticed that Kanako was with him. It was normal since Kanako was a dear childhood friend of my older brother and she was very nice to me...but then when I saw the two...they held hands as if they were in love. My heart became wretched and began to hurt from the view. From that point on, I knew that I loved my older brother. Not as a family member but I loved him as a man and woman would.


    I had these feelings all along and it took me this long to figure them out. I also noticed that Keiji wasn¡¯t shocked at the appearance as if he knew...and then it struck me. I¡¯ve always been slow at noticing that my older brother was indeed a handsome man so why wouldn¡¯t he have a girlfriend or two...actually...why wasn¡¯t he married yet.


    These feelings began to erupt in turmoil as I felt that my beloved onii-chan was going to leave me for a woman. I finally broke out of my timid shell and I knew that I had to chase after my brother and make him love me regardless if we are brother and sister.


    But then¡­


    My older brother...He left¡­


    Something about conscription or mandatory service was taking away my beloved brother. I...I never had a chance to even say anything and I felt sad...sadder than I¡¯ve ever been in my life. My heart ached in pain and my parents tried to console me but nothing worked. I began to shut myself from the world and closed my heart¡­


    Where is my onii-chan¡­


    Then I heard about the meeting that happened on the night that my older brother left¡­


    My brother, Keiji, spoke to our father late at night and I heard that he is now the successor to the family business but not only that...I heard that my older brother...could¡¯ve avoided that mandatory service but he decided against that...and left to Korea¡­


    Why did my older brother leave...did Onii-chan hate Hana...I felt sad and reclusive towards my family and avoided them¡­


    Keiji inherited the business and became an influential figure in the science and technology department. I, on the other hand, slowly returned to society.


    Ever since I closed myself, I knew in the deepest corners of my heart that my older brother would be sad if he saw me right now. I knew I had to return so I could greet my older brother with my arms and I would tell him I love him.


    It¡¯s been several years since my older brother left to the military and I hadn¡¯t heard much from him. Only Keiji would inform me about how my beloved brother was doing and I appreciated Keiji nii-san for doing so. He knew about my feelings and Keiji silently cheered for my success on getting Onii-chan¡¯s love.


    Suddenly, for two years, Keiji lost contact with Onii-chan.


    It was as if he disappeared and my resolve was shaking uncontrollably. I felt worse and worse. I began to close myself again because I felt that my older brother was gone¡­


    Keiji tried his best to console me that Onii-chan would return but I saw that look in his eyes. Those eyes were filled with sadness and silently, both of us would weep in misery. Keiji was the first to return because he couldn¡¯t sit around and do nothing. Keiji was resolute and he continued to work at the corporation while endlessly searching for Onii-chan.


    Seeing his resolve, I felt determined to return.


    My friends were happy that I returned. They were my friends that treated me normal even after finding out about my influential background. They also knew about that time when I shut myself away from the world. They continued to cheer for me even when I was down and I knew that these friends of mine are truly best friends.


    The three friends that I love are Yui, Kirina and Yuna.


    Yui, her full name is Yui Miura and she is a smart girl that has dark brown hair that quite medium in length. Her eyes are black and she is quite sporty and very active. She would often play multiple sports and she¡¯s very beautiful. Many of the guys have fallen for her but she always refused them politely because she hasn¡¯t met her true love yet. Her figure was slim and petite with long, beautiful legs but her chest was quite massive. She has a pair of C 32¡¯s and that was the majority reason why those guys fell in love with her. When she plays actively in her sports, the guys would become smitten at her beautiful figure and chest.


    Next was Kirina Amatsuka. She¡¯s quite shy like I was since I was little. She has long, beautiful black hair that extends past her shoulders and she has that regal aura around her. She¡¯s very shy towards everyone but when we¡¯re together, she likes to talk to us because she trusts us. She usually wears long clothing and on most occasions that clothing would be kimonos. The traditional kimono matched her silent and serene personality and she was very kind. Her figure was no less beautiful than Yui¡¯s. At first, I didn¡¯t notice her big chest because she always wore long clothes but when we went to a hot spring, we saw her slender body that sported two big mounds on her chest. She was very beautiful and many guys chased after her but she would always avoid them because she doesn¡¯t like guys that were flirtatious or needy.


    Last was Yuna. The only thing different about her from us is that she¡¯s half korean but we didn¡¯t mind. She was very cheery like Yui but she had a cold attitude towards men. She really hated men that would have lecherous eyes towards us. She was the disciplinary one in our group. Whenever guys tried to approach us, she would glare at them and the guys would flee. Yuna is also the strongest because she¡¯s a brown belt in Taekwondo. One time, a guy was about to grope Kirina from behind when she arrived and executed a reversal and toppled the guy upside down. She has light brown hair that reaches to her shoulder and her eyes were brown that matched her hair. She was also the tallest out of us and her figure was slender and flexible from her taekwondo classes. Her chest wasn¡¯t impactful like the other two but she still has quite a pair.


    And then, there¡¯s me. Hana Nakamura.


    Quite short and slender with long, black hair and others would call me petite but I am quite plump if they ever saw me naked but only the girls know. I am cheery like Yui but I am also a bit shy like Kirina and a bit bossy like Yuna. I was like a little bit of everyone and these girls love me for who I am. They¡¯ve been my friends since my older brother left and they were the ones who consoled me besides my other brother, Keiji. These friends of mine are part of my family and I would do anything to help them since they¡¯ve helped me already¡­


    At Keio, the girls and I would attend our afternoon classes together and finally relax after classes. It was already past 2 o¡¯clock and we finished our classes. We regrouped at the University foodhall and we were going to leave campus together and eat somewhere.


    Suddenly, the female students were gathering at the entrance of the University and usually they wouldn¡¯t do that unless a famous idol was appearing in their university or someone handsome was there.


    Yui suggested that we should check it out and we followed.


    Somewhere in my heart, I felt a surge of emotion rushing forward. I felt something that hasn¡¯t been with me in many years. Somehow...I felt something return¡­


    As we got closer, the crowd continued to grow. After shuffling around between the girls that yelled and screamed. It was getting vicious to the point where Kirina was almost lost and we held hands to reach the front.


    Finally, we broke apart from the crowd while holding each other¡¯s hands and then I saw¡­


    A familiar figure was sitting on the hood of a supra car. He wore a black shirt that seemed tight on the man because his muscles were appearing on impact. His pants were black and sleek and he wore black shoes. His figure was more than handsome...it was manly and he had a fierce aura around him. His face was so similar but I was being blinded by the sunlight and immediately, I saw the man smile¡­


    My hands dropped from Yui¡¯s and my heart quivered inside. It began to beat furiously in anticipation and the man stood up from the hood of the car and his eyes looked at me and his smile was heavenly¡­


    My friends were stunned at the man¡¯s appearance and their faces were flushed as if they met their true love. I didn¡¯t pay attention to them and I immediately ran towards the man. I jumped towards him with my arms spread open and finally I said¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    ¡­


    ¡°Onii-chan!!¡±


    I saw Hana and she immediately ran towards me and jumped. I opened my arms quickly and accepted her in embrace. She was quite short but I can tell that she¡¯s grown mature and more beautiful ever since I left.


    I caught her in the air and swung her petite body in a swinging embrace. She cried while she was in my arms and I gently patted her back to calm her down.


    I saw the three girls that held my sister¡¯s hands and they were quite astonished. Even the crowd of females were shocked at the sudden embrace and finally everything clicked in when they remembered Hana¡¯s words of ¡°Onii-chan¡±.


    Hana continued to cry into my chest and my shirt was soaked from her tears. I knelt down on one knee and began to slowly wipe her tears with my finger.


    Her eyes were slightly red from sobbing and I looked at her¡­


    ¡°I¡¯m back, my little sister. I¡¯ve come to pick you up.¡±


    I smiled at her tearful expression and she brightened up. Hana continued to embrace my chest and she spoke¡­


    ¡°On-onii-chan...I miss...missed you¡­!!¡±


    ¡°I missed you too...let¡¯s go. We can talk somewhere else. I don¡¯t want to stay here any longer because it seems that your ¡®classmates¡¯ want to chase after me¡­¡±


    Hana snuggled into my chest and I gently patted her head.


    She stuttered a bit and spoke¡­


    ¡°Big brother...c-can my fr-friends come?¡±


    ¡°Those three over there?¡±


    ¡°Y-yeah..¡±


    ¡°Of course. I have to thank them for taking care of you. They can fit in my car too so let¡¯s bring them along. Go and bring them alright...It seems that they are shocked like everyone else¡­¡±


    I gently ushered my sister and she reluctantly left my embrace. She went to the three girls that were still stunned from the whole situation and I could hear their voices¡­


    ¡°H-hey! Hana! How come you didn¡¯t tell us that you had such a handsome older brother¡­¡±


    I heard those words from the woman that had dark, brown hair. She¡¯s beautiful but I can¡¯t think like that. That¡¯s my sister¡¯s friend and it would be weird...somewhat¡­


    ¡°Ha-hana...introduce us¡­¡±


    ¡°Wait...big brother wants to take us somewhere so we can talk in private..*sniff* it¡¯s been too long since he¡¯s been gone so I don¡¯t the other girls to spoil our reunion¡­¡±


    ¡°O-okay!¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s...so...cool¡­¡±


    Those words came from the tallest female in Hana¡¯s group. I can see that she¡¯s experienced in some sort of martial art due to her posture and body figure¡­.but..why did she say that...I mean..she¡¯s beautiful too like the dark brown-haired girl but still..that¡¯s my sister¡¯s friends.


    ¡°Hey! You too! Yui! Yuna! Stop that! That¡¯s my older brother!¡±


    ¡°Ohh! I remember when you told us that story! So that¡¯s the one!¡±


    ¡°Ahh!! Shut up! Let¡¯s just go! Hurry! Onii-chan is waiting for us and I don¡¯t the girls to chase after him too!¡±


    ¡°I see! Hana! I will go after your brother!¡±


    ¡°Damee!¡±


    ¡°I will also!¡±


    ¡°Noooo!!!¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s so...sexy..¡±


    Hana and her two friends were stunned from the other girl¡¯s words. I almost spat out my pastry that I ate on the way here. I did not expect those words to come from the girl that seemed shy. She had the longest hair out of the group and she wore long clothes but I can tell that she¡¯s quite the beauty from her face. BUT NO! That¡¯s my sister¡¯s friends.


    Hana immediately grabbed their hands and brought them towards me. I smiled at all four of them and immediately unlocked my car. I wanted to wait until we went to a safe spot and we can eat together in silence before those other females start charging towards me.


    After they got in, I finally closed the door and drove away from Keio. The crowd of females were still astonished and they became saddened after I left.


    This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    I drove towards a nearby restaurant that the girls suggested and we finally began introductions¡­


    The dark brown-haired woman was named Yui. She¡¯s an athlete and she¡¯s has a competitive personality. Her hobbies were mainly sports and she seemed very happy. I noticed that she was staring at me the whole time..


    The long black-haired woman was Kirina. I could tell that she¡¯s very shy since she didn¡¯t say much but those words from last time were quite shocking...She has a silent but very serene personality and like Yui...she stared at me¡­


    The tallest out of the group was Yuna. She had a mixture of korean and japanese features and I was spot on when she introduced herself. She was a practitioner in Taekwondo and she¡¯s a brown belt. Very skilled and she seemed to be the cool beauty that would protect her friends.


    I looked at them and began my introduction¡­


    ¡°Hi, Nice to meet you, Yui, Kirina and Yuna. My name is Ichiro and I would like to thank you all for taking care of my sister over here. I¡¯m sure that you all are shocked from the performance earlier but you have to understand that I was gone for a while and my little sister seems to have missed me a lot. But, I am back and it was nice to meet you three.¡±


    ¡°Haha..It¡¯s nice to meet you too, Ichiro-kun..¡±


    Yui was twiddling with her fingers as she spoke first.


    ¡°Ni-nice to meet you...Ichiro-kun¡­¡±


    Kirina was a bit shy but her face was beet red like Yui¡¯s.


    ¡°It was a pleasure to meet the older brother that Hana lo--¡±


    ¡°Nooo!! Be quiet Yuniiiee!!!!¡±


    Hana interrupted Yuna¡¯s sentence and I felt confused but I let it go. Yuna, Yui and Kirina continued to stare at me and my little sister was pouting¡­


    ¡°Mooou! Stop staring at Big brother! Anyways, Big brother¡­are you sure you are back for good¡­?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Hana. I won¡¯t be leaving anytime soon but if I do leave...I¡¯ll make sure to tell you beforehand okay?¡±


    I patted Hana¡¯s head and her face immediately reddened. Is my patting bad or something¡­?


    I looked towards Yui, Kirina and Yuna and all three of them pouted as if they wanted something...They stared at my hand that patted Hana and I finally noticed that they wanted to be patted on the head too¡­


    Oh well...I guess I should pat them on the head...it seems weird that they want to but I really don¡¯t mind¡­


    I gently patted Yui¡¯s head first. Her face immediately reddened and I changed towards Kirina and she nearly passed out from my head patting and Yuna was a bit composed but her face was flushed like the others.


    Hana pinched my leg and I looked at her in disbelief¡­


    I mouthed the words of ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    and she was angry at me and she began to pout.


    I stopped my hand movements and finally spoke¡­


    ¡°Alright...well, I will be going soon so I will drop you all at your house and Hana, I am gonna drop you off at the house. Is Mom and Dad home?¡±


    ¡°No, they are in Europe right now...after that unknown man appeared in Germany, Mom and Dad immediately left to Europe and they are probably helping the economic struggle in Europe...that reminds me...Onii-chan..are you--¡±


    ¡°Ahaha! Okay, let¡¯s eat. I see our food coming..¡±


    ¡°Hai¡­¡±


    Oh god, my sister is too perceptive...I regret appearing there..I knew I should¡¯ve told them to erase that video...Anyways... after I drop them, I should stop by at Kurogane building. Keiji should be working still and I need to tell him about the safety system that occurred when I was in the game¡­


    After we ate, I immediately dropped off Hana¡¯s friends and I drove Hana to the house that I left 8 years ago.


    I told her that I wasn¡¯t going to go in and I dropped her off.


    I made my way to the Kurogane HQ building. It clearly was the tallest building in the area. Sporting the highest building, under the Tokyo tower, the Kurogane HQ building is where the Kurogane corporation manages its mainline technology and business plans. The windows were tinted black and at the very top, there was an insignia that sported the emblem of two black swords crossing in a wreath.


    I parked my car in the parking lot and made my way into the lobby.


    I could see many people entering and exiting the lobby as they were busy working and I made my way to the front desk. I saw a man who had an arrogant expression as he was flirting with the female workers at the desk. I feel that this man is going to be annoying and thus I walked towards him in a straightforward manner and spoke¡­


    ¡°Hello, I am here to meet Keiji Nakamura. The CEO of Kurogane Corporation.¡±


    The female workers laughed and the arrogant male was scoffing and he smirked at my appearance.


    ¡°Hahaha! Very funny, now please leave us alone. From the look of it, you seem to be someone that isn¡¯t important and even if you were, do you have an appointment?¡±


    ¡°No. I don¡¯t have an appointment but can you call hi--¡±


    ¡°Hahaha! Call the CEO? Are you stupid? No, I am not gonna waste time with you, Security!¡±


    Suddenly, 6 men in black suits appeared around the corner and they immediately converged towards me.


    The female workers laughed but they finally they regretted their decision. They saw how handsome I looked and they were quite astonished that they spoke like that towards me. Some of them began to compare me with the arrogant male that watched from behind the counter.


    The 6 men immediately tried to usher me towards the exit but I planted my feet in refusal. They began to bark orders towards me to quickly leave the premises but I ignored them. More security guards came and they tried to remove me.


    I was about to break their hands from touching me until I heard a familiar voice¡­


    It was Keiji.


    ¡°Stop this at once! What are you all doing! Get off of him!¡±


    Keiji began to glare at the security guards that ¡°tried¡± to forcibly remove me from the building. The arrogant male came upfront from behind the counter and spoke¡­


    ¡°Ah! Mr. Keiji! Don¡¯t worry about it. They were about to remove this man fro---¡±


    ¡°You! You are fired! Get out of here!¡±


    Keiji immediately fired the arrogant male. The arrogance on his face immediately vanished and his face went pale. He began to retort¡­


    ¡°Bu-but Sir! I did noth--¡±


    ¡°GET OUT!¡±


    ¡°Eeeeek¡±


    The pale faced, arrogant male shuddered from Keiji¡¯s voice. Then...his face went pale when Keiji spoke again¡­


    ¡°Are you serious! I didn¡¯t pay you security guards to do stupid stuff like this! Do you recognize who this man is! I clearly made sure that everyone was informed about the important personnel that you should always be courteous towards to. JUST BE GLAD THAT YOU AREN¡¯T DEAD! ALL OF YOU ARE FIRED! DO YOU KNOW HOW MUCH YOU EMBARRASSED ME! THIS IS MY OLDER BROTHER! THE MAN WHO WAS SUPPOSED TO TAKE OVER THIS COMPANY! HE¡¯S FAR MORE STRONGER THAN YOU AND BETTER THAN ANYONE IN THIS BUILDING INCLUDING ME! JUST BE GLAD THAT YOU HAVE YOUR LIFE AND I SAVED YOU!¡±


    Everyone in the lobby was shocked at Keiji¡¯s voice. Normally, he is calm and collected but this was the complete opposite. His face was filled with anger and embarrassment that his corporation was lacking in discipline. The lobby was silent in dread and finally I spoke¡­


    ¡°Keiji..don¡¯t fire them.¡±


    ¡°But Aniue!¡±


    ¡°I said don¡¯t. Everyone makes mistakes but make sure they learn this lesson or I won¡¯t be so kind next time.¡±


    ¡°You hear this! Be happy that my older brother is considerate towards you ungrateful lot!¡±


    ¡°Keiji! Stop it. Don¡¯t be angry.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Aniue. Let¡¯s go. I don¡¯t know why you came but I am sorry that you saw a bad side of the company. The scientists from the lab are interested in seeing you since I delivered the data and they wanted to ask a few questions.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    I immediately walked towards Keiji while ignoring the security guards and the arrogant male that were pale-faced from Keiji¡¯s introduction about me.


    The workers began to return back to work but they were all astonished at Keiji¡¯s new personality and expression. From that day, they began to fear Keiji¡¯s older brother as a different entity¡­


    Keiji and I entered the elevator and Keiji inputted a different number code and a keyboard panel appeared at the elevator number display. Keiji used his passcode I.D. and password and suddenly the elevator shifted a bit and we suddenly dropped past the basement levels and currently, it displayed a new letter and a number. L-1


    The elevator opened and I saw a white hallway that had multiple scientists in labcoats and many in professional attire. The people in the hallway bowed respectfully towards Keiji and they were confused about my appearance but Keiji waved at them to stop inquiring about my presence.


    After walking past a few rooms that had countless Dive pods, we arrived at a two screen door that was bustling in commotion. Keiji entered and everyone bowed towards him and many snuck glances towards me but they naturally wouldn¡¯t ask anything until Keiji addressed it himself.


    Some of the females were radiating their predatory glances but I ignored it. Keiji guided me towards the podium that sat directly in front of the computer stations and countless machines that dinged in countless intervals. Behind the podium, there was a large screen that displayed Infinity in large letters and I can probably guess that this is used for displaying important events that occur in the game/world of Infinity.


    I stood behind Keiji while he assumed the frontal position, directly behind the podium and he spoke¡­


    ¡°Fellow researchers and scientists, Today my brother has arrived and not only he is my brother but he¡¯s the first tester of the Second generation Dive Pods. The information that you received yesterday was because of this man and we¡¯ll be monitoring his development in the game. Right now, the dive pod has been receiving data that is useful for the second and third generation dive pods. Soon, we¡¯ll be able to enter the world of Infinity and finally leave the cast of Earth. You all know the main reason why we¡¯re doing this and we¡¯re definitely a step ahead to achieving our goals. Now, before you all start questioning my brother, please do not irritate him. Only focus on the main point and especially you females, stop gawking at him. Now, I will have my brother introduce himself and then you guys are to resume the project.¡±


    After Keiji¡¯s speech, I switched positions and finally spoke¡­


    ¡°Hello, my name is Ichiro and I am the older brother of your boss. Now, I will be helping you guys officially and unofficially. Keiji should¡¯ve received information from the Prime Minister that I will be coordinating with the Military Tech group that is co-jointed with the Kurogane Corporation which means that I will be working with you all pretty soon. Also, since I am the initial tester of the second generation pod, I will be playing the ¡°game¡±, well actually not playing but I will be living in that world majority of the time. I am sure that you all know about the possibilities with the second generation dive pods and how they can transport people. So, without further ado, I am happy to meet the team that created this technology and I look forward to working with you all.¡±


    I left the podium and many of the scientists were staring at me in awe and fascination while several females stared at me regardless of Keiji¡¯s warning.


    I walk away from the platform with Keiji and began to speak to him in private¡­


    ¡°Alright Keiji, I triggered the safety assist on the second generation pod. While I was in the game, I somehow initiated Shishou¡¯s technique and it forced me to log out due to some discrepancy or overload on data but my entire body was transported into a white plane.¡±


    ¡°Really, brother? That¡¯s ridiculous...I have to get the data field from your dive pod. Currently, the second generation pod isn¡¯t connected to the mainframe of this facility so we can¡¯t receive the data automatically but when I return home, I will establish the connection.¡±


    ¡°Ah, and also, when I was in the white plane, some sort of sentient being appeared. It was a gigantic black dragon that had black miasma spewing from its body.¡±


    ¡°W-what!!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I think it gave me an adventure quest since I have to travel several thousand kilometers in distance to reach wherever this dragon wants me to go. He said it¡¯s a tomb and most likely it¡¯s where his body lies in rest so I will be venturing there if nothing impedes my journey.¡±


    ¡°Well brother, like I said...Infinity may seem like a game but it is really an entire new world. I did not develop the people and events that occur in that world. All I did was establish the connection and made it into a game so we could disguise our true purpose.¡±


    ¡°I see. Well, I already knew about that information but you have to make sure that people don¡¯t find out about that idea because several politicians are power hungry and they will do anything to gain wealth and this ¡°game¡± seems to be a gold mine.¡±


    ¡°Alright...well, you can return to the game. The safety system only kicks players out for one hour in real life. So, for that one hour, four hours have passed in that world.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I will be going back home. I also picked up Hana and I met her friends¡­¡±


    ¡°Huuuuh...you met sis eh? What did she say?¡±


    ¡°Well, she jumped into my arms and she cried while saying that she misses me.¡±


    ¡°So she hasn¡¯t said it yet¡­¡±


    ¡°Said what?¡±


    ¡°Nothing brother. Anyways, I will be staying here for a bit and I will return late at night. Save me some dinner because I don¡¯t like to eat in the Company restaurant...I receive too much stares from people and they are probably scared because of earlier.¡±


    ¡°Okay, also help me escape...I can sense that people want to ask me questions but I don¡¯t want to bother with that. I am going to return now. Bye Keiji.¡±


    ¡°Good bye, brother. Oh, tell that impudent worker at the front desk that his pay has been docked for 3 months.¡±


    ¡°Haha...ha...I feel sorry for that guy...alright, I will be going.¡±


    I quickly make my getaway while Keiji blocked the wave of females and curious researchers that wanted to question me. I ran towards the elevator which I came with Keiji and immediately pressed the lobby number and the elevator shifted in the same manner it did earlier.


    The elevator immediately ascended towards the main lobby where I was close to being forced out of the building.


    The elevator shuttered from the arrival of the main lobby and I exited the elevator.


    The workers immediately glanced at me and they respectfully performed their duties to avoid incurring my wrath. It seems that Keiji had struck fear into them perfectly.


    I saw the bunch of female workers that scoffed at me earlier working meticulously at the counter and I saw the once arrogant male, now pale-faced male at the front desk. He noticed me from a glance and he didn¡¯t dare look towards me.


    I went and stopped in front of him and spoke..


    ¡°Well, I am not one to bear grudges or anything but let¡¯s just clear away misunderstandings and stuff. I hope you treat your visitors properly or Keiji might fire you. Also, I came to tell you that Keiji is suspending your pay for three months. It was nice to meet you while it lasted.¡±


    I smiled at him as his face went blank from my words and I quickly left the area. I didn¡¯t even care about the female workers that tried to voice their apologizes. I don¡¯t want to bother with people that lack common courtesy and they know that now.


    I make my way to my car and I finally drive back home...hopefully Hiromi isn¡¯t knocked out anymore¡­


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