Chapter 20: False Impressions
It’s morning. The silence was disturbed by the sound of coffee brewing. Sitting around the table was the Sotas. It’s unusually silent for this time of day. The reason? Sora was now waking up on time for school. No yelling. No wake up calls. No fuss. Just breakfast.
[cling]
The sound of the mug hitting the table brought everyone's attention.
“Ahem” (Sora)
“Yes Sora?” (Dad)
“Do you believe in reincarnation dad?” (Sora)
There was a drawn out pause. Reincarnation? Religion? The Sotas were atheist. Sora’s dad wasn't ready to have a serious conversation about religion; not before drinking his morning cup of joe! Sora’s dad looked towards his wife. She had the same expression he did.
“Ahem. Ah. Reincarnation? Um. Marcus, we support whatever religion you choose to believe” (Dad)
“Dad! I’m not talking about religion. I just want to know your opinion!” (Sora)
Sora’s eyes were fervent. His hot-headed attitude threw them for a loop. What happened to their stupid, lazy, slow-headed son that never cared about being late for school? Now all of a sudden he wants to know about reincarnation? Sora parents were worried; they didn't want Sora to be hanging around some weird cult.
“Sora, you know mama and I are both atheist. We don’t believe in the afterlife” (Dad)
“That’s right Sora. There’s no such thing as reincarnation” (Mom)
*sigh*
“I’m off to school then” (Sora)
***
“Sora…” (???)
“...” (Sora)
“Sora!” (???)
“...” (Sora)
“SORA!” (Prof. Okamoto)
“Wo-wah?” (Sora)
“Sora, are you paying attention? Stop daydreaming!” (Prof. Okamoto)
“S-sorry!” (Sora)
[giggle]
Reincarnation. The thought was stuck in Sora’s mind. Lately he’s been having strange dreams of someone's past life... his past life. He couldn’t explain it; he was still trying to wrap his head around the whole situation. The only conclusion he could come up with was reincarnation.
“Class, please have these signed and returned within 2 weeks” (Prof. Okamoto)
“Huh?” (Sora)
“Wooo! This is awesome!” (Class?)
“Yay! I can’t believe we get to visit Frontier!” (Class?)
“Settle down class! Don’t make me cancel the field trip!” (Prof. Okamoto)
Field trip?
Looking down on the slip, Sora recognize the name. Frontier, the creator of Golden Age.
***
Later that day, Sora met with his friends at their usual spot; they quickly informed Sora that all the 1st year were visiting Frontier. Sora friends were excited, especially Matsuo. Visiting the company responsible for making your favourite game would probably be every little boys’ fantasy, but Sora couldn't care less.
“Hey Shota, hypothetically speaking, let’s say you're the reincarnation of Mighty-man” (Sora)
“And?” (Shota)
“And there are people expecting you to be that Mighty-man, but you can’t” (Sora)
“Then just ignore them. Who cares what people think, as long as you’re having fun” (Shota)
“But let’s say you can’t ignore them, what do you do?” (Sora)
“Hey man, stop beating around the bush, just say what you wanna say” (Yuta)
“Yeah, there’s no need to impress anyone. It’s impossible to be a superhero” (Shota)
“...yeah, you’re right” (Sora)
“Yeah, but we’re only talking about real life right? If it’s golden age, even you can become a Hero” (Matsuo)
“Don’t give Sora any crazy ideas Matsuo, he’s only level 15” (Yuta)
“Hey! I’m level 20 now!” (Sora)
“Pfft-level 20!” (Yatsu)
“It’s not that funny” (Sora)
“Anyways, does everyone still have their tickets for St. Marie Voyager?” (Shota)
“Dude, you asked us last night, we got it!” (Yatsu)
“Hey, we can't risk getting thrown in the brig! Otherwise we’ll all have to wait!” (Matsuo)
“Whet level are you guys now?” (Sora)
“I’m 76!” (Matsuo)
“73” (Shota)
“71!” (Yatsu)
Damn, I’m really behind
“Hey Matsuo? Do you have a pet?” (Sora)
“A pet? You mean in game?” (Matsuo)
“Yeah, in game” (Sora)
“Nope. Pets are really rare, you normally need to buy one from a tamer, but those guys are stingy. They sell a level 1 pets for over 1000 gold! Such a ripoff” (Matsuo)
“I see. Um. How do you check your pet status” (Sora)
“It’s easy! All you have to do is say the pet’s name and ‘status window’, if you want a list, just say ‘pet collection window’” (Matsuo)
“Wait, you got a pet Sora?!” (Yuta)
“Uh-” (Sora)[/color]
“Hey Sora, sell it to me!” (Shota)
“Wah? Really Sora?!” (Matsuo)
“Hey, they're not for sale!” (Sora)
***
It’s after school. Sora was now heading home. As he walked through the autumn leaves, he kept thinking ‘how could I become stronger’. The whole incident with the demons had a profound impact on Sora. He was weak. Useless. He wanted to be a Hero. While turning a corner, an imposing sign was staring down on Sora.
-Do you want to be strong? Learn Kendo! Call…-
“T-That’s it!” (Sora)
They say first impressions are always the greatest…
“Hello! I’ll like to join your Dojo!” (Sora)
“Eeek! Pervert!” (Girl?)[/color]
“...” (Sora)
“Pervert? Where?” (Practitioner?)
“Hey! What did you do to our Hime-chan?!” (Practitioner?)
“You’re going nowhere boy!” (Practitioner?)
Blocking the exit, Sora was surrounded by several burly looking men. They glared daggers while viciously snarling at Sora. Their black gi did nothing to hide their bulging muscles. Sora could only stutter nonsense under the overwhelming bloodlust.
“What’s all this commotion about?!” (Oldman)
“Gramps! That’s him. The pervert!” (Girl?)
“Stand aside!” (Oldman)
“Yes Master!” (Practitioners)
They say first impressions are always the greatest…
“H-hello Ma-ma-master. I would like to join your esteem dojo” (Sora)
“I heard you laid your hands on my precious granddaughter! You have guts showing your face around here boy!” (Master)[/color]
The oldman aura was intense. Sora could have sworn his grey hair was floating under the immense power! Standing at an impressive 2 meter, the oldman was crushing any remaining confidence Sora had left in him.
“S-sorry Master! I didn't do it on purpose!” (Sora)
“Liar! You just wanted to grope me while I was defenseless!” (Girl?)
“That’s not true!” (Sora)
“Silence!” (Master)
Sora instantly regretted his decision. He didn't know she would be here! He didn't know she would be the granddaughter of the dojo Master!
“We shall test your skills! If you manage to defeat three of our students, I will forgive your insolence!” (Master)
“But Grandpa!” (Girl?)
“No buts! If a man wishes to marry the heir of our dojo, he must prove himself worthy!” (Master)
“I think there’s a misunderstanding-” (Sora)
“Silence!” (Master)
They say first impressions are always the greatest…
“First up! Naomichi!” (Master)
“Heh! I’ll teach you to think twice before laying your hands on Hime-chan” (Naomichi)
Standing in the center of the dojo was Sora and Naomichi. The instant Sora held the wooden sword, everyone knew he was an amateur. Everyone had already written Sora off as another punching bag, there’s no way an amateur could beat Naomichi, who was already a 3-dan in kendo.
As both fighters ready their stance…
“Fight!” (Master)
Naomichi took the initiative. His strike was decisive. A smooth arch descended towards Sora’s head.
[thwack]
It wasn't over just yet. Sora managed to block the first strike with his sword. This only enraged Naomichi even more. He was known for his speed and technique, for him to be blocked by an amateur could only be called humiliating. Naomichi went in for another strike towards Sora’s ribcage.
[thwack]
Another block.
[thck-thck-thck-thck-thwack!]
All the students jaw dropped as Sora continued to block each strike! His form was horrendous, his grip was wrong! Everyone was speechless!
Sora knew he couldn't give up. He believed the old mans last words. If he manage to defeat three students, he’ll be able to escape with his life intact! Sora eyes were focus. Though he’s never picked up a sword in his life, his body reacted accordingly. He always kept enough distance between him and Naomichi. Sora was unconsciously using footwork to keep himself at a safe range. Not only that, Sora body swayed with grace. He kept his center of gravity firm, only using just enough movement to parry each attack. But Sora was far from perfect. A few hits finally managed to find their way through.
Sora realize what he was doing wasn't enough. He had to imitate Naomichi’s movement. His grip. His swings. What Sora needed to do was evolve.
Slowly the tables were turning. Naomichi started to have goosebumps. Before he was fighting a lost cub, but now, a ferocious tiger. Sora started attacking Naomichi with the same strikes he used earlier, but the strikes weren't just faster, they were more powerful. Each blow cause pain to resonate within Naomichi’s body. He was being pushed back!
[thck-thck-thck!]
Naomichi tripped over his own legs as he tried to back-step. Sora saw the opportunity. His blade curved in a smooth arc towards Naomichi head-
“STOP!” (Master)
Like the gong during a boxing match, the blade stopped. Naomichi wasn't hurt but he fainted from the pressure alone. All the students were struggling to grasp what just happened. As Naomichi was dragged off the court, Sora’s next challenger approached.
“Tomoaki!” (Master)
Tomoaki was as tall as the Master, his build was sturdy, his face enraged, but Sora wasn't scared this time. He managed to beat one already; to him, Tomoaki didn't look much stronger...
“Fight!” (Master)
Sora took on the initiation! He copied the same move Naomichi did on him during the opening match.
[swoosh]
It missed. Sora eyes focused. He saw the counter attack coming from the right. His sword was already touching the ground. He couldn't pull back the momentum. Inch by inch the sword slowly closed in on Sora’s face.
[ba-dump]
*gasp*
Sora perform his first mid-air twist. He’s done it several times in Golden Age before, but doing it in reality put some serious strain on his knee. Sora 180 twirl just barely managed to dodge the blow. As he landed on his rump, Tomoaki dive in for a decisive strike.
[TWAK]
Sora barrel rolled to the side. He got up and ready his stance. Tomoaki was more nimble than Naomichi, instead of blocking, he sidestepped every attack while performing a counter. After several failed attempts, Sora stood still. He was now waiting for Tomoaki to attack him…
“Tsk. You cheeky little brat!” (Tomoaki)
Everyone knew what Sora was planning to do. Tomoaki went in for the kill. As Sora did a sidestep, something felt off. The sword disappeared. Sora was confused. He looked back towards Tomoaki. There it was! Swinging down again towards Sora’s face!
“UGH!”
[THWACK!]
Sora barely managed to block. It was powerful. Sora tried to back step but Tomoaki didn't let him. He pursue Sora while pushing him towards the edge. Sora attempted to swipe Tomo’s legs with his sword, however, he ended up receiving a knee to the face. Sora stumbled to his knees. He underestimated Tomoaki.
“Die!” (Tomoaki)
As the sword fell towards Sora, something surged from within. His eyes became more sharp. His muscles tensed…
-Flashback-
“Hahaha! Good try Markus! Come on, lets try again!” (???)
Getting off from the floor was a child. Markus just turned 8, yet he wasn't having a party. No cake. No presents. What Markus was doing was training. Standing above Markus was a husky blonde swordsman. Chiseled jawline, ripped muscles, thick legs, he was the definition of a warrior. Markus stood up readying his sword.
“Again Master!” (Markus)
“Thats the spirit!” (Swordmaster)
[swoosh]
-End Flashback-
The image of Markus’s swordmaster and Tomoaki blended into one image. The sword was fast, but at the same time slow. It wasn't like it was actually moving slower, but what Sora was seeing was something different. It wasn’t just the sword he saw. He watched as Tomoaki grind his big toe towards the front. He watched as the muscles tighten on the forearm. The posture, the breathing, Sora saw everything. The next moment caused everyone to gasp! Was it a fluke? Did Sora really win?
Lying on the ground was Tomoaki. Sora landed a perfect counter with the back of his hilt towards Tomo’s chin.
Everyone became restless. For the dojo to lose two of their students to a complete amateur had to be a joke. Everyone unsheathed their wooden swords.
“Master, please me next!” (Practitioner)
“No, me!” (Practitioner)
“Silence!” (Master)
Getting up from the floor, the Master stretched out his body. Sora stood there panting as the old man made his way towards the center. Everyone was silent. They never seen the master fight in the dojo before. For him to challenge the newcomer was nothing short of a miracle. Everyone eyes were glued towards the match. Even the girl was engrossed.
“Interesting movements boy, is this your first time playing with the sword?” (Master)
“...you could say that…” (Sora)
“Hahahahaha!” (Master)
Sora's adrenaline was kicking in. His heart was pounding out of his chest. The old mans gaze was cold. A black aura filled the room. This was the first time Sora feeling this type of chill run down his spine. He felt it...death.
[ba-dump, ba-dump]
The old man looked towards the side, Sora wasn't even worth his attention. That small gesture caused Sora to move. This was Sora’s only chance. Mustering every ounce of power he had, he went in for the kill.
[ba-dump, ba-dump]
[swooosh]
The next seconds was a complete mystery. It was like magic. Sora was now staring up at the ceiling. He wasn't hurt, but he knew he lost. Getting up, he could only plead for forgiveness. Sora performed a dogeza (bowing one’s head to the floor).
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The old man could only chuckle at Sora’s behaviour. Sora looked up to see the Master sitting back down on his cushion. Question marks floated over Sora’s head. Wasn't he going to be punished?
“Harharharhar! You piqued my interest boy! Tell me, why do you wish to join our dojo!” (Master)
“I wish to...become stronger” (Sora)
“Why do you desire strength? What would you do if you were the strongest in the world?” (Master)
“I-...I want to be a Hero...” (Sora)
“Hahahaha! Did you hear that?” (Practitioner)
“This isn't paytime kid! Hero? Hahaha!” (Practitioner)
“Silence!” (Master)
The room was again silent. The Master gestured Sora to come closer. The girl hid behind her grandfather while growling at Sora. As he sat down, the Master placed his hands on Sora’s head. He was gazing into Sora’s mind.
“Why do you wish become a hero?” (Master)
“I don’t know why...but someone is calling out to me. My soul is telling me to become a Hero. Someone who will protect everyone, to stand against darkness, to save everyone from harm…” (Sora)
The students snickered while covering their mouth. The Master only sigh in annoyance on how undisciplined his students were.
“What’s your name boy?” (Master)
“Sora, Sora Sato!” (Sora)
“Sora! Starting today, you shall be training here in the dojo!” (Master)
“Really?!” (Sora)
Sora got up in excitement. The girl only pouted at her grandfather’s decision.
“Ahem. Before you go, here’s the application form. Monthly fee 3000 Yen.” (Master)
Sora bowed as he left the dojo.
***
As he made his way home, his mother greeted him with a smile.
“Hi Sora, you’re late, did something happen?” (Mom)
“Um, mom, can I join the kendo club?” (Sora)
“Huhu, of course. I didn’t know your school had a kendo club” (Mom)
“Er...It doesn’t. It’s the Ryusaki’s Dojo…” (Sora)
“OH! I heard they were very selective with their students. How did you manage to get in?” (Mom)
“I challenged the Master himself” (Sora)
“Wah! You fought against Ryusaki himself! Honey! Come here!” (Mom)
“What is it?” (Dad)
Sora’s mom was throwing a fit. She didn't want her ‘baby’ to do something so dangerous. Ryusaki was well renown kendo expert. He won several world titles in his youth and was now the head of one of the biggest dojo in town.
“Honey, I think this would be a perfect opportunity for a growing boy his age. We can’t hold his hand forever” (Dad)
“But…” (Mom)
“Don’t worry, I’ll take care of everything” (Dad)
“Thanks dad!” (Sora)
Sora handed the slip to his father…
“Sora…” (Dad)
“Yes?” (Sora)
“This is coming out of your allowance” (Dad)
***
Welcome back Marcus
The moon was high. It's been several days since they left Filoria. Marcus caught Yunni using Diloria as a pillow. Marcus wasn't so surprised. On their way to Hansbridge, Diloria finally started growing. At first Marcus was happy to see some physical improvements in size, but each day she kept growing bigger and bigger. This definitely didn't look normal to Marcus. Lumia must have done something.
“-Diloria’s status window-” (Marcus)
[ping]
Status WindowDiloriaRace: FeralLevel18 (55.3%)OwnerMarcusHealth630/630Mana0/0Stamina370/370Luck5Strength25Intelligence5Agility60Dexterity32Wisdom5Vitality20
Status: Lumia's Blessing (increase growth rate)
Experience Link (Marcus): 25% of Marcus's total exp
Oh! That makes sense. I was worried for nothing.
Looking over to Yunni, Marcus became curious... Was she also a pet?
“-Yunni’s status window-” (Marcus)
[ping]
Status WindowYunni EscalarRace: FairyLevel57 (23.0%)TitleMarcus's wifeHealth2220/2220Mana10700/10700Stamina205/205Luck45Strength34Intelligence340Agility178Dexterity56Wisdom189Vitality51Charisma108Nature78Fame3740
Experience Link (Marcus): 25% of Marcus's total exp
Fire resistance: 7.8%Water resistance: 7.8%Air resistance: 7.8%Earth resistance: 7.8%
Hey...what’s this experience share thingy?
“Ermm. Marcus?” (Yunni)
“Ah-Hi Yunni” (Marcus)
“Woof!” (Diloria)
The villagers were still sleeping. From what Marcus could remember, it would only take 1 more day by foot to reach Hansbridge. Marcus started to cook, though Yunni wasn't hungry, he could tell Diloria was. Her appetite has grown ever since they left Filoria.
[ping]
Cooking beginner lvl. 8
+improve food quality
Marcus culinary skills improved greatly with the guidance of the villagers. Not only that, he really had to thank Yunni for all the hard work she’s been doing. Thanks to her, not only was the minor pesticide problem solved, but she acted as a bodyguard while he was away.
***
The next day, they finally arrived at Hansbridge. The group started to rejoice! They never imagine being able to escape from 'the box'. Some shed tears while others started screaming in excitement. The two guards stationed at the from immediately recognized the missing villagers and left to call the chief and the rest of the villagers. Everyone rejoiced as families were reunited. The old man directed Marcus towards his house. There, Marcus and the chief sat down in a spacious room as maids served them tea and cookies. Yunni tried stopping Diloria from stuffing her face with the cookies as Marcus explained what happened in the past 3 weeks.
“I see, I must thank you Hero, your service will not be forgotten” (Chief)
[ping]
+1000 reputation points in Hansbridge, +affection with Hansbridge’s Chief Donnis
“You’re welcome Donnis! It was only natural after all” (Marcus)
“Haha! We must celebrate! I’ll gather the villagers and hold a grand feast in your honour! Please, stay for the night!” (Chief Donnis)
“Sorry, I really must return to Rohan…” (Marcus)
“Marcus! Don’t be rude! Of course we will be attending Chief Donnis!” (Yunni)
“Yunni!” (Marcus)
“Hahaha, your wife’s a feisty one!” (Chief Donnis)
“She’s not my wife!” (Marcus)
“Gasp! Marcus!” (Yunni)
“Wa-wait Yunni! I was-” (Marcus)
[Boom]
Storming out the window was Yunni! This wasn't the first time this happened. Marcus knew the routine. Yunni would come back, he'll apologize, she’ll force him to apply red salve on her, even though she had full HP, then they’ll make up. Marcus walked around the town with his free time. He unloaded his japtem to the local merchant and headed to the local forge to repair his equipment.
Marcus was now bored. Yunni still hasn't popped up yet, so he decided to explore the 'Hunters Guild'. Like in many games, a guild is a place for people to gather, to join parties and share info. One of the biggest perks from joining a guild are the quests. The quests offered by the guilds are only exclusive to members, they tend to be dangerous but highly rewarding.
[knock knock knock]
“Hey, anyone home?” (Marcus)
Marcus entered the guild. The lights were off in the main hall, however, there was someone crying in the back room. As he peeked his head inside, Marcus realized he walked in at the wrong time. Tessel was consoling his grieving wife. Marcus was confused, shouldn't they be happy? He did risk his life to save them after all, the least the could do was be happy. Marcus was curious.
“Uh...what’s wrong Tessel?” (Marcus)
“My baby! My baby!” (Tessel’s Wife)
“Oh, it’s you Marcus...Sorry, we’re close right now…” (Tessel)
“Hey, don't need to be shy, we're friends aren't we?" (Marcus)
“You! Why didn't you save my baby! Aren't you a hero?!” (Tessel’s Wife)
“Huh?” (Marcus)
“Honey!” (Tessel)
The woman ran towards Marcus and started banging on his chest. Her hands were frail. It didn't hurt. But the words felt like daggers.
“You killed her! You killed her! You killed my baby!” (Tessel’s Wife)
Baby? Ah…
Marcus realize what she was crying about. The incident with the owl.
Recently Marcus was letting the praises get to his head. Everyone kept calling him hero this and hero that. He was starting to believe he really was a Hero. He’s been training at the dojo, fighting monsters, protecting the villagers, getting stronger. He was becoming too full of himself. Who cared if his past life was a Hero? That doesn't make him a hero now. He was foolish. Who was he kidding? Marcus could only bite his tongue as the mother wept against his chest. Tessel stood there with his eyes closed. He also felt responsible for his daughter’s death.
“I-I’m sorry…” (Marcus)
“Shut up! Why didn't you save her?! She was only a child!” (Tessel’s Wife)
“Marcus, I think you should go…” (Tessel)
“... My condolences” (Marcus)
Marcus heart was heavy. As the festival began, everyone was cheering and dancing, only Marcus was slouching alone on a chair. He’s been rejecting everyone that night, he wanted to be alone.
“Hey Marcus, I’m back~” (Yunni)
“Not now Yunni, I’m not in the mood” (Marcus)
“Hey, what’s wrong?” (Yunni)
“It has nothing to do with you!” (Marcus)
“Hey! I’m only asking! Don’t raise your voice with me!” (Yunni)
“Get out! I don’t need this right now!” (Marcus)
“Hmph!” (Yunni)
Yunni pouted as she flew off again. Marcus closed his eyes.
Ah. I did it again...I really need to apologize.
“Hey Marcus! I found you!” (???)
“Huh?” (Marcus)
Perching over Marcus was the ‘Red Fox’.
“Oh... Stephanie, right?” (Marcus)
"Don't tell me you forgot all about me! I was searching for you ever since you left Rohan!" (Stephanie71)
"Ah...sorry, I was in a rush" (Marcus)
“Don't worry about it! Anyways, I heard all about your heroic tales! It made my heart go Kyaaa~” (Stephanie71)
“I’m glad you enjoy them” (Marcus)
“Hey Marcus, if you’re not busy tonight, how bout we find ourselves a private room?” (Stephanie71)
Wrapping her slender arms around Marcus's back, the ‘Red Fox’ took a seat on Marcus’s lap.
“I’m not in the mood for games Stephanie” (Marcus)
“Who said I was playing?” (Stephanie71)
Stephanie started grinding her chest on Marcus’s face. Marcus wasn't too pleased with the whole situation....
They say first impressions are always the greatest…
“Hey Stephanie stop-” (Marcus)
“Marcus!” (Yunni)
“Huh?!” (Marcus)
Standing across the room was Yunni holding a bag full of sweet potatoes. Her eyes were watery as the bag dropped to the ground...
“Yunni! Wait” (Marcus)
“Marcus you jerk!” (Yunni)
Before Marcus could explain the situation, Yunni took off! Everyone in the room was speechless. Stephanie turn to Marcus with question marks in her eyes.
“Um, who was that?” (Stephanie71)
Lion’s Roar: -25mp
“GET OFF!” (Marcus)
“Eeek!” (Stephanie71)
“Woof!” (Diloria)
Marcus started chasing after Yunni. The last Marcus saw Yunni, she was heading north! The villagers started to gather around Marcus, everyone wanted to say their thanks to the Hero, but Marcus brushed them aside. He knew Yunni wouldn't be coming back. This time it was him that needed to find her.
Lion’s Roar: -25mp
“YUNNI!” (Marcus)
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