-Quest Complete-

Where in the World am I?

You have awoken in a strange new world. Find out where you are!

Locations Discovered 7/7

Inose River

Karakura High School

Kurosaki Clinic

Shopping District

Train Station

Furin Hall

Tsubakidai Park

-150 Exp

-Map feature unlocked

-1000 Yen

Failure

-Map feature permanently locked

Time Limit: 2 days

It was with great joy that I finally finished this Quest. While it wasn't necessarily a difficult one, I didn't enjoy having a ticking clock. I hated that in games.

My Stats have grown a tiny bit as well, with my Vitality increasing by 1 and my Agility by 2. Slow and steady baby, slow and steady.

I looked at the final landmark I needed, Furin Hall. It was a Karate Dojo, and I could hear them practicing inside. I would have loved to learn, but sadly, I have no money. If only there was a way to earn some.

Normally, someone with Gamer powers would have access to Dungeons or something, but that feature was locked until I gained a Spiritual Power of some kind. Having access to Reiryoku wasn't enough apparently.

Which is also something I've been trying to draw out during Meditation, but besides a few levels, I haven't made much progress in that regard.

Maybe there was something on the Map? Might as well check it out since I just unlocked it and everything.

Let's see… there's my house, all the locations I discovered and one that just has a question mark. That must be the one I got from the Hidden Quest. I'll have to check it out when I can.

There were several shops from the shopping district listed as well. And when I clicked on them, a new tab appeared with a list of purchasable items, along with any that were currently on sale. Isn't that handy?

There were also icons of everyone I have Relationship points with. Guess that's so I know where they are so I can interact with them to gain Affection. Nice I guess, but it kinda made me feel like a stalker.

I also didn't see any ways to gain some cash. So I either have to wait or get a job. Damn.

"Hey, who are you?" asked a feminine voice, breaking me from my thoughts. I turned to see who it was, only to be greeted with a familiar face. It wasn't one I've met yet, but I recognized her all the same.

Short, black, spiky hair, petite frame with a modest bust, giving off an aura of serious tomboy energy, wearing a Karate uniform with a black belt. Yep, it was none other than Tatsuki Arisawa. And let me tell you, she was way better looking in person.

Why didn't Ichigo go after her? Because holy cow! But if she's this good looking, how would someone like Orihime compare? Or Yoruichi? The thought made me both nervous and excited.

I began to Scan her immediately.

"Sorry, didn't mean to interrupt. I was just passing by and got a little curious. I'm Ushio, Ushio Tenma. Nice to meet you" I said in greeting. Tatsuki gave me a suspicious look for a moment, before recognition passed through her eyes.

"You wouldn't happen to be the same Ushio who saved Karin would you?" she asked, approaching me. Don't get nervous, Ushio, she's just a beautiful woman. You got this.

"You heard about that?" I questioned. That confirmation triggered an Affection gain.

+5 Affection to Tatsuki Arisawa (5/100)

There was something nice about gaining Affection, however small, from a beautiful girl my age. I could get used to it.

She nodded her head, "Yeah, Karin told me all about it the other day. In fact, she couldn't stop talking about you." Tatsuki said this with a sly grin. I rolled my eyes and groaned. I get it, she has a bit of a crush on me, the game was fucking with me, not that she knew that, but regardless, this restaurant does not serve loli's unless they are of the legal variety.

Tatsuki chuckles at my response, a teasing glint in her eyes, "I also hear you're her official taste tester."

I sighed in resignation, "I think you mean guinea pig." She snickered at me again. Just then, a voice interrupted our conversation.

"Tatsuki, break time is over. It's time to resume your training."

"Coming Sensei!" Tatsuki shouted, "Sorry I have to go…" she trailed off before giving me a once over. I was wearing a pair of blue jeans and a tank top. And I most certainly did not puff out my chest slightly. Whoever told you that is a liar.

+2 Affection to Tatsuki Arisawa (7/100)

I guess she liked what she saw.

"You ever think of studying Karate?" she asked. I did in fact. About one whole minute ago.

"Yeah, but I'm a bit strapped for cash right now," I responded. I needed money pronto. Being broke left the taste of failure in my mouth, and I didn't like it.

"I see. That's too bad. Well, I'm sure Sensei won't mind you watching at least. If you want that is," she invited. And how could I turn down the chance to watch this beauty in action.

"You're not trying to show off for me now, are you?" I teased. Yes I'm flirting with her, don't judge me. She's cute.

She gained a slight tint of red in her cheeks, "Pfft, you wish."

I chuckled at her brusque mannerisms, "Alright sure. I have nothing better to do now anyway. Let's see what you got."

+1 Affection to Tatsuki Arisawa (8/100)

"Alright, come on!"

I chuckled at her enthusiasm, following behind her into the dojo. She reminded me to remove my shoes, and I hoped my feet didn't stink. That was the last thing I needed.

Walking down the halls I took note of the pictures of current and former students, as well as the trophies and awards placed in glass cabinets. One really caught my attention. It was a first place national trophy that read "Tatsuki Arisawa."

"Well, somebody's a big deal," I said, having stopped to read it. Tatsuki turned around to see what I was talking about, and her face took on an embarrassed look. "Oh that. It's no big deal."

She tried to play it off, but I could hear the pride in her voice and see it in her expression. "If you say so. Guess you're more than just a pretty face huh?"

+2 Affection to Tatsuki Arisawa (10/100)

"S-shut up! Come on, we can't keep Sensei waiting," she told me, turning around quickly and storming off. She acted mad, but she had a noticeable pep to her step as we continued on.

There seemed to be more noticeable sway in her hips as well. Even though the Karate gi hid most of her figure, I still couldn't help but appreciate her derriere. I bet it was nice and spankable.

Ok, best to put those thoughts aside for now before I became too distracted. Save 'em for later.

It was about this time her Scan was complete, which helped distract my lizard brain from the fine piece of literal ass in front of me.

Name: Tatsuki Arisawa

Age: 16

Level: 18

Health: 528/528

Stamina: 380/396

Reiryoku: 504/504

Description: Tatsuki is a young woman who will do anything for the people she cares about. Headstrong to a fault, she often rushes into things without thinking things through. The very definition of a tomboy, she doesn't often show her more feminine side, even if she secretly wants to. A blackbelt in Karate, she can more than take care of herself, and her friends. Her best friend is Orihime Inoue, who she often uses her Karate skills to protect, usually from Chizuru Honsho. Friends with Ichigo since childhood, she acts as a big sister for Karin and Yuzu.

Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.

Not gonna lie, I do love me a tomboy. But at the same time, I wouldn't mind seeing her in a little black dress. Something that hugs her just right, showing off every curve.

That scan didn't distract me in the way I wanted it to…

But all good things must come to an end. We eventually made it to the training hall, where a bunch of students were gathered. Most of them were around mine and Tatsuki's age, with a few younger or older. Most of them were guys as well, with about three girls besides Tatsuki.

An older man in his fifties or sixties seemed to perk up when we entered the room. He has peppery hair tied back in a small ponytail, and a light beard. He was somewhat small, about 5"5 or so, but held himself with the utmost confidence. I got the feeling he was someone you didn't want to mess with.

"Ah Tatsuki, you made it. Hmm, who is this you've brought with you? A new student perhaps?"

Tatsuki gave a slight bow as she approached, which I did not. I Scanned him instead. "Sorry for making you wait Sensei. This is Ushio, the one who saved Karin the other day."

He gave me a speculative look, like he was measuring my worth. I gave a bored look in return, trying not to appear fazed. I'm going to say it worked, if for nothing else than my own ego.

"Ah yes, of course. She was quite excited to share the tale. I must thank you young man for coming to her aid. But what is it you seek in this place?" he questioned. Oh he was definitely measuring my worth now.

Before I could speak, Tatsuki answered for me, "I found him outside and he expressed interest in learning Martial Arts, so I invited him. I hope that's alright."

He seemed to contemplate this for a bit, before coming to a decision, " I see no reason to turn him away. Very well, you may join us for today. Please observe from over there," he said, pointing to the far end of the hall.

I gave a shrug and did as asked. Tatsuki then took her own position, as her Sensei began to give a lecture.

"What is the purpose of Martial Arts? For what reason do we train? Is it power? The ability to dominate your opponent?" he said, sweeping across the room, gazing into the faces of each and everyone of his students.

"Or perhaps you merely wish to have the strength to defend yourself. To stand against the tide of life and stand tall at the end. To have courage to do what is right, when all the world tells you to do wrong," he continued, stopping in the center of the room, his students undivided attention on him.

"I have walked many paths in my life, the path of power, the path of peace, the path of sacrifice, and many more. And what I have learned is that there is no true path of Martial Arts. Each of you must choose the road you walk. Whatever path you choose, choose it well, with ample forethought."

He then turned his gaze toward me, "Martial Arts were created to help the weak, to topple the strong, and to give hope that the darkest of nights bring forth the brightest of dawns. Think of this as you continue to learn and grow, the reason you study the Martial Arts, and the path you wish to walk. Now, let us begin today's lesson."

The old man sure had a way with words. What was the reason for power, why obtain it? It wasn't something I hadn't thought about before, not really. I've always been fairly strong and never bothered to question the reason for having strength in the first place.

Why did I want to Level up? Is it just because I can? Because I want to challenge the powers of the world and show them who the top dog is? Or did I just want to survive?

The world was dangerous, that much I knew for certain. If I didn't get stronger, I would be helpless when the shit hits the fan. And I don't want to be helpless.

Or maybe none of that matters. I was playing a game now after all. The consequences may have been real, but it was still a game. And if what the System said on day one was true, that I was entertainment for some higher power, I doubted I had much choice but to play.

The only thing I could do was get stronger and win. I have no intention of seeing a game over screen. None of that "You Died" Dark Souls shit. I would win, hell, I'll even go for the secret ending.

For listening to a lecture, you have gained +1 Intelligence

For correctly guessing you have no choice but to play you have gained +1 Wisdom

Well, I'm honestly surprised. Not many figure out they have no choice but to play. Some who do refuse, and the consequences are dire. Perhaps you will provide ample entertainment after all. Enough to get me a promotion at least.

Wait, promotion? Is that all I am to you, a chance to climb the corporate ladder?

Correct. Why would I put up with you unless there was something in it for me? Do you think your company is that great? Get over yourself.

I'm choosing to be the bigger man and ignore him. Can't let him get to me.

I continued to watch as they practiced their moves. Some, like Tatsuki, got the move down immediately, and began to help the others. I couldn't help but admire her work ethic.

And that was the only thing I admired. Scout's honor.

But I do have to admit, she looked pretty good, breathing heavy and covered in sweat. Too bad I don't have the excuse of washing my hair for long showers. I also lived alone, so I didn't really need it.

After an hour or so, Sensei called for a halt. Everyone stopped what they were doing, and retook their earlier positions.

"Excellent work, all of have all been training very diligently and have made this old man very proud. But I'm curious, what did our guest think of our practice?" Sensei questioned, looking directly at me.

Wow, thanks for putting me on the spot, old man. Looking around at the various faces, including one Tatsuki Arisawa, who were all looking at me intently, I felt a bead of sweat drip down my face.

"Oh, uh they were awesome. Yeah, really impressive. I can tell they're been training hard," I said. A few of them preened from the small praise, but I received no Affection from Tatsuki, so she must not have felt very flattered.

"Indeed… Tell me, how do you think you would fare against my students?" Sensei asked. Oh this evil old man.

"Well, I think a few would give me a bit of trouble," I said, trying to be diplomatic. But I think it came off as insulting, based on the narrowed eyes of a few.

"Just a few hmm? Care to prove it?"

Oh he has me now, there was no way I could back out of this. And his students were looking way too excited by the prospect of punching me. What have I ever done to them?

"Sure. But I don't know Karate," I said, trying to get out of it one last time. It didn't work.

"That won't be a problem. Now, who would like to spar with our friend here?" he questioned his students. Several of them raised their hands, but it was Tatsuki who would ultimately be given the honor. She stood and presented her case.

"Sensei, please allow me. I'm the one who brought him here, it's only right if I get to challenge him," she said. Her face was set in determination.

Sensei seemed to contemplate this for a moment, before seeming to agree, "Very well Tatsuki. Please escort young Ushio to the changing rooms and get him a gi. The rest of you may stay or go as you wish."

"Yes Sensei," Tatsuki said with a bow. She then turned to me, "Come on."

Is it bad I kind of found her attitude hot right now? Probably not the best time to think about it. I had to focus on not getting my teeth kicked in.

If this was back in my world, there wouldn't be anything to worry about. A girl Tatsuki's size, no matter how skilled, would never be able to beat me, not with her bare hands. Just like I would never be able to beat a gorilla. The size and strength difference was too great to overcome with any amount of training.

But this was anime land, where anything is possible. And I knew she packed a good amount of power in that tiny, sexy frame of hers. Damn, I'm thinking about it again.

"So, what was it I said that made you want to punch me?" I asked as we traveled down the hall, this one different from the one leading to the entrance.

"What? It's not like that," she said with a snort of amusement. She stopped and turned to me, "I heard everything from Karin, and Ichigo confirmed it. You fought a huge wall of muscle and came out on top. I want to see what you're made of, that's all."

She said this all with such a determined look on her face, I couldn't help but be a little inspired.

"If that's what you want, how could I say no? But don't think I'll go easy on you," I said with more confidence than I felt.

+1 Affection to Tatsuki Arisawa (11/100)

She gave me a smirk at that, "Good, I don't want you to. Show me what you got!"

-Quest-

Sparring Match

You have been challenged to show off your skills, however meager they might be. Do your best to impress Furin Hall's Sensei and Tatsuki Arisawa.

Rewards

-150 Exp

-Affection gain +5 to Tatsuki Arisawa

-Free Karate Lessons

-Unlock Karate Fighting Style

Failure

-You pay double for Karate Lessons

-Affection gain -5 to Tatsuki Arisawa

-Unlock Karate Fighting Style

Accept? Y/N

I accepted, but I really wish it told me just how I'm supposed to impress him, because I really wanted those free lessons. Do I have to beat her or do I have to last a certain time? Because one of those things was much harder than the other.

At least I unlocked the Fighting Style no matter what, so that was a plus. Oh well, I'll just have to try my best I guess. I mean, how hard could it be?

We reached the changing rooms and Tatsuki handed me a fresh, clean gi. I went inside to change after Tatsuki said she'd meet me in the hall. I stripped down and placed my clothes in an empty locker, before putting the gi on.

It was comfy. It made my clothes feel like they were made out of steel wool. Scanning them revealed how much better they were.

Karate Gi (Common)

A basic uniform to study Martial Arts in

Durability 6/6

Defense +1

Upgradeable

Ok, so it wasn't a piece of mythical armor of anything, but it still made what I was wearing look and feel like crap. Life really wasn't fair sometimes.

I also have no idea how to tie the belt. After trying to emulate the way the others wore theirs, I gave up, and just tied it in a knot. Hopefully they didn't mind.

I exited the changing room and made my way to the Training Hall, feeling a bit nervous as I did so. After all, I'm about to fight some 6x my level. Toma was hard enough, and he was just 3.5x my level. At least Tatsuki wasn't trying to kill me.

As I entered the Training Hall, Tatsuki saw me and gave a sigh of exasperation. A sound I was used to hearing from women. She approached me and looked me up and down, before reaching for my belt, and untying it, "Geez, what the heck did you do? Here let me show you."

Not going to lie, it had me a bit flustered. The whole thing felt rather intimate. She was close enough I could smell her lingering perfume, which had a fruity, apple scent to it. Surprisingly feminine, and I couldn't help but want to smell more of it.

After she finished fixing my belt, she straightened my gi as well, "There we go." She then looked up at me, hands still holding my gi, before she seemed to realize the position she was in. Her face turned beet red, and she jumped back.

She made a coughing noise and tried to regain some dignity, "A-anyway, I hope you're ready." Honestly, I could use a minute or two to cool down, but I didn't tell her that.

"Of course. Let's do this."

Sensei approached us with amusement dancing in his eyes. He likely never saw Tatsuki acting this way and was having a ball. Glad I could be so entertaining.

Name: Ryuto Dojima

Age: 53

Level: 48

Health: 1,000/1,000

Stamina: 784/784

Reiryoku: 978/978

Description: Ryuto is an older man who runs a Karate Dojo known as Furin Hall. A former champion of both the underground arena and the professional Karate League, he spends most of his time training his students, constantly looking for someone who could be a future champion as well.

I'm glad I'm not fighting him. I may not know what his base stats are, but that's some serious Hp he's got there. Not to mention all that Stamina, old guy must be hitting that Total Gym.

"Well, now that the two of you are properly attired, we can begin the spar. Take your positions," he instructed, with a bit of levity in his voice. I wasn't sure what position I was supposed to take, but as long as it wasn't face down, booty up, I was fine with it.

Tatsuki walked over to the edge of the sparring ring, which I just noticed. It was a white circle, maybe 15 feet in diameter. I took my position on the opposite side, facing Tatsuki.

All around the students sat, eager to watch. It didn't look like any of them took their Sensei up on his offer to leave. They must have really wanted to see me get punched in the face.

Well, I wasn't one to disappoint, because I'm sure it was inevitable. Good thing I could take a punch.

Sensei looked at us both before nodding his head. "Good, are the fighters ready?" he asked. Tatsuki and I nodded, each taking a fighting stance. Hers was a lot more solid than mine, her years of Karate training showing form the simple gesture.

"Then you may begin!"