The Recurring Weapon: Zantetsuken

[zantetsuken]

Ittou Senso

The Recurring Weapon: Zantetsuken

He was lost. Finding himself all alone again. Left with nobody but himself to seek comfort from. Just like the time when he'd lost his beloved mother. How did it come down to this? What exactly was he thinking when he'd allowed that actress to put the thing on him? Sure it wasn't his intention to slack off and try his hands at a Virtual Reality Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Game (VRMMORPG), but who from the headquarters would believe him? The thought of them staring down at his physical form -assuming that it was only his mind that was being trapped in this world- sent shivers down his spine. He would've been a disappointment to them. A disappointment especially to the one responsible for taking him under their wings. He felt ashamed.

And it wasn't fun.

The apocalypse. Its timing couldn't have been any worse. Just five minutes after his registration, it happened. His brief visit into the virtual world seemed to have followed him back into reality. If it wasn't for the familiar structures, despite them being covered with moss, he wouldn't have believed it. Could this phenomenal occurrence be considered a cosmic shift? Otherwise, how would one explain what'd happened?

Ittou, or Zantetsuken rather, as shown in the Heads Up Display (HUD) in his sight, have been asking around as soon as he realized that the Log Out icon wasn't functioning. No matter how much he'd pressed, it always denied him exit with a blinking red "X". But nobody knew the reason why. He even tried asking the Non-Player Characters (NPCs), the People of the Land, otherwise known as the Landers for answers, but to his chagrin, they too knew naught. The next thing he did, was to inquire for the Moderators or Game Master (GM), thinking that they're the best person to go to when such happenings arises. Unfortunately however, nobody knew where to find one either.

So Ittou was left with no choice.

Glancing over a shoulder, he took another look at the green coated city behind him. If no answer can be found here, then it's likely out there. And with the information he'd gathered, being outside a city was never going to be a walk in the park. Sure he could probably handle himself well in real life, but out here, with all the skills one may possess, along with the threat of spawning monsters, the Samurai class warrior needed a lot of upgrading to do. He needed some practice and lots of getting used to. He needed to familiarize himself with the world of Elder Tale. Or rather, with Unfounded Kingdom.

Windsor Greatwood, a large valley made up of a vast field of open meadows and thick forest which no doubt houses quite the variety of creatures once an Adventurer strays away from the main road. Fortunately, those closer to the city were of low levels. And for a beginner like Ittou, it'll serve him well as a training ground. Each step he took was accompanied by the clanging sound of armor plates. Should he have known he was going to be stuck in the game, he would have chosen something more comfortable, something less distracting. And with a better or shorter name than Zantetsuken to go by.

As he approached a level one Dull Green Slime, Ittou drew his Starter Katana from the sheath. He swirled the weapon in his hand, feeling its weight and quietly listening to the sound the blade made as it cuts the air. The curious thing ventured close and entered his striking range. Without warning, Ittou stepped in with his right foot and struck the slime diagonally down from a high position with his master hand. Probably due to his preemptive strike, the hit landed true and cuts the creatures Hit Points (HP) by half. Obviously, such an attack would definitely kill a living human being back in the real world. So Ittou wasn't quite prepared and was somewhat surprised when the slime made an attack of its own. He received the damage. It was barely noticeable though due to his armor but it was pretty obvious since it came from the front. Amused, he finished the amorphous creature off with a second swipe, slashing it horizontally before staring at its unique anatomy as it dispersed into a few drop of sparkling gold coins.

Interesting... Ittou thought. So that's one way to make gold and raise one's level. But I need to target something stronger. Assuming they would grant me better rewards. But just how much can this body take? He wondered.

But before he sets off to engage another, Ittou raised his fingers before him and pulls up the game's interface. He figured if he were to do this, he'd better learn the basics and check what he's capable of doing before he's caught off guard again. After a few scrolling and swiping motions, he finally nodded and picked a target. This time round, he'd his eyes set on what seemed to be a family of Young Pittered Boar, consisting of two level two piglets and a level three "brother" or "sister". Impulsively, he told himself he should try hitting them at range before engaging a close quarter combat. And as if on its own accord, his left hand reached for the Apprentice Grimoire at his side. With one hand, he opened the book to a random page and began reciting the surprisingly readable content. While he tried to recall how the spell would work from the interface earlier, it happened.

Something definitely sparked a few inches in front of him, hovering and materializing into an orb the size of his fist, right above the book. He wasn't sure of its element but it seemed to swirl like a ball of fire would. He took aim at the highest level among the three and released the slight tugging sensation in his left hand. Instantly, the orb flew forward, colliding with a small explosion upon impact with the boar, inflicting damage. Successfully grabbing its attention, Ittou put away the book and drew forth his sword. What he'd not foreseen however, was that his little range attack where magic was involved had thrown the couple of the level twos into a state of aggro. While the level three boar was staggering, the couple of the little ones sort of charge towards him. Pulling himself together from the slight pause, Ittou too rushed forward, heading towards one of the two and striking it aside head on. As soon as he felt a connection, Ittou tried to turn and deal with the other one but found his body momentarily frozen. He winced when he felt the bump on his side.

Ah, so I can't handle them the same way I would have in real life? Ittou noticed the slight delay between his executions. Is this what a gamer would call a turn based battle?

Aware that the monster he managed to strike might launch a counter attack, Ittou leapt back, just in time to see the boar took a swing at the air where he once stood. The corner of his eyes then caught sight of the level three boar rushing towards him. The Samurai stepped back in with a vertical attack on the damaged level two, avoiding the slightly hurt level three. He managed to land another hit, bringing its life another notch down. Subconsciously, Ittou was smiling. Somehow, he was enjoying this.

It was fun.

He jumped to the side to escape the boar with a full health attempt at attacking him. But he came to realize he should have saved that move to instead dodge the level three attack. With a smirk, he accepted the inevitable damage then and kept focusing his attack on the already weakened target. Another hit rewards him with the sound of dropping gold coins before he shifted his attention to the bigger boar. Since its already damaged, he might as well concentrate on finishing it off. So Ittou repeated his technique, taking turns at attacking, dodging and taking hits. He made a quick calculation mentally and noticed that he could at least handled three or four more of such encounter. At least after realizing his mistakes. After the fifth or sixth strike on the level three boar, he easily finishes off the remaining one with an exceptional life-bar to spare.

So this is what the Samurai class could handle.

He was somewhat satisfied with how much protection his armor have provided and was aware that his defense was not as strong as the Guardians'. But he's also aware that a Samurai's offensive force were much higher than theirs. At least that's what he'd discovered after reading the different classes descriptions.

Another fact he took note of was, he could already feel somewhat exhausted, which was really a surprise since he knew he could last much longer in the real world. Perhaps the low level he's now in was the cause to this flaw. Ittou then shook his head, silently telling himself that not everything from the real world works in this realm he's now in. He have to keep learning as he progresses. Lifting his head up, he stared at the blue sky above. The brightness of day was the same as the world he knew. The heat from the sun. The wind. Even the rustling of the grasses beneath his feet were similar. For quite some time, the Samurai stood at that spot. Spending a moment of silence with nature. Something he'd never truly did in the world he grew up in.

This is nice...

All of a sudden, something nearby stirred, grabbing his attention. Ittou turned to look. Slowly, his lips curved into a smirk at what he saw. His grip on his weapon returned, shifting himself into battle mode as he lowered his stance. The three monsters he'd not so long ago eliminated were now slowly materializing before him. They were a blur at first. In the form of a spirit, sort of, before their form became clear. Respawn. That's what this was. But they didn't attack him. There was no sign of them hating him for destroying them. No hint of revenge whatsoever. It's as if the battle they had never happened.

Ittou's posture then relaxed. He began recalling the conversation he'd once overheard a couple of Adventurers said. That not all monster behaved the same way. That not all were docile. It would indeed be a danger to the Adventurers should the crowd of monsters here be aggressive instead. And although they're of the lower levels, they'll probably still be a nuisance to the beginners. Mentally, he took note of what he discovered.

The man then proceed with his battling. Eyeing on the distanced pair of level four Young Pittered Boars, he advanced for them. There's something else he wishes to try. Something he was sure to be helpful. Ittou locked them both to engage him, striking the first and then dodging before attacking the other. As soon as he got their attention, he adapted the required stance for his next move.

With his left leg forward and the weapon raised slightly behind him with its tip pointing in the other direction, the Samurai crouched low. "DENKOSEKKA!" he exclaimed. Mentally, he pictured its effect. And immediately, sparks of electricity leapt all over his body, occasionally washing over his plated armor with flashes of blue light before vines of bolts wrapped around him. He felt light. Almost weightless. Without wasting a moment, since he only got fifteen seconds to spare, Ittou began cutting down the first boar. His attack landed but his steps went further than he'd intended, straying slightly off the usual course. He then went for the second while the former tried to flank him. Another hit landed true and once again, his position was a little too far from them. 

At this rate, he could probably engage more than just two of them. His actions were faster than before. He managed to deal two hit to each of the boars before he received one from them. And it seemed that the electrifying aura about him could absorb their attack, decreasing its initial damage a couple of notches down. Ittou Senso smirked. His gaze strayed away from the two boars before him and then dashed to engage a third which happened to come near him. It was obvious that he's having fun. All the worry before Ittou had before he began seemed to have left him. This was sort of a stress relieving exercise for him. 

In the short period of time, Ittou managed to handle three level four Young Pittered Boars exceptionally well, so far. But he knew his luck was running out as the timer for the duration to the Ace Skill he's using was almost down to zero. And he'll have to wait for forty-five seconds before he could use the same skill again. But he told himself that he could make it through even without it. However, what happened next triggered him into panic mode. Ittou received a damage that dissipate the makeshift barrier around him, nullifying the skill's effect about five seconds before its initial stoppage time. 

Shit!

His speed returned to normal. The weight of his thick armor weighing down on him once more. It wasn't until he'd received another damage that he realized how strong a level four Young Pittered Boar was. Consciously, he glanced to his own HP, keeping a close watch at it as time passed by. Two hit given and two hit received, not quite a favorable exchange. When the first boar dropped, he was slightly relieved. By this time, he could have sworn Zantetsuken, the body he's in, was sweating. It wasn't a pleasant sight to see his life-bar dropping into the orange zone. Soon, he found himself pushed back towards a small group of Dull Green Slime. That's when he realized how far he was from where he'd initially started. He was aware that should the slime weren't at the state they were in, despite of their curiosity nature, he'll be in deep trouble. By the time the second boar fell, his HP have already reached the red zone. Ittou had probably bitten more than he could chew. That third one was unnecessary, he told himself. 

How is death like in this world? What's it like to experience it?

The questions inevitably crossed his mind. No! He quietly yelled at himself. Even though it's a game, such thoughts shouldn't have came to mind. His heartbeat quickened as he exchanged another blow with the boar. The blinking red number from the interface kept tugging at his focus. Never did it occur to him that such a thing could scare the hell out of him. So when the dodge he made as well as the follow up attack he made was successful, felling the final threat, Ittou sighed and silently rejoiced, pleased with the triumphant he'd achieved before he sat on the ground in relief. 

That was close! Too close for comfort as a matter of fact. But I must admit, it was thrilling.

[Word Count: 2529]
| CLAIMED |

[zantetsuken]

One after another they came. Blades swinging. Striking. 

Only to break and fall. Stained and drenched with their crimson blood. 

Rust. Chipped. And slowly turning blunt as they lie. 

Yet they weren't discouraged. Instead, they grew bolder. 

Returning back for more. Not knowing when to cease.  

Submitting only to their own rage. Their own aggression. 

Rewriting their own fate over and over again. Bodies now littered the ground. 

Surrounding HIM far and wide from where HE firmly stood. 

Alone. Out of HIS sheath. Naked. Seemingly untouched. 

But the battle was far from over. For HE knew that more shall come. 

Still, HE remained. Waiting. Unwavering. Persistent. 

Sole Blade 

Ittou Senso 

The rays from the sun slipped through the long digits of his fingers. Their shadows playing on his face. It was a bright sunny day. Cloudless. And the man was simply resting. Basking under the sunlight while he was at it. There was no need to worry about getting any sunburns here, was there? No need to worry on tanning the pale Zantetsuken, his avatar. Turning away from the sun, he rested both hands on the hilt of his weapon where he'd planted the blade into the ground, watching his surroundings. Observing the monsters grazing over the fields around him. If it wasn't for his attire, he would have been mistaken for a herder.

Quietly, he waited. Glancing at the numbers and the bars of both his life and mana to be filled. It's a slow recovery method but it worked nonetheless. Still, he wished there's a faster way to regenerate them. Would he be fully recovered if he was to return to the city, like in most games? Or must he use the inn for that? Ittou assumed it would be the latter for he'd spotted them during his search for answers. But there must be another way. Something he could use on the field. A potion perhaps. Or a healer. Perhaps a spell. Casually, he pulled up the interface once again. Swiping one tab after another, clicking it and then scrolling its contents.

He opened up the "Class" tab and began reading. Looking first at his own set. Browsing through the skills and mentally picturing how he could use them to his advantage. Those chains thingy gave him an idea. If he could find a solid combination, he believed he could handle himself better. That he could confidently face quite a number of enemies and inflict a strong and higher damage points to them. But right now, he wanted to see if there's something he could use to help him last longer in the field. Especially since he's running solo. It'll probably be a while before he would try asking for a partner, or a group. Perhaps a party of a few different classes. Maybe even consider joining a guild.

After some time, he found it. A tier one skill he could later learn. It's not found under his own set though. But with it, he could be less of a burden to his future team. As the plan conjured themselves within his mind, Ittou inevitably recalled the training he'd gone through in real life. As a bodyguard.

He was taught different methods and techniques as well as on what to look out for when protecting a client. And although the actual take on it was different from this world, the approach and concept were pretty much the same. At least that's what Ittou thought. Who in this world would be his client then? Probably the People of the Land, those quest holders. Or the Support Class he might one day work together with. His class, the Samurai, despite them being less defensive than the Guardian, kind of shared that same approach and concept he'd come to noticed. As they said, 'A good defense is a good offense'. Similar to his occupation, the Samurai too needed to be in the front line, sacrificing themselves to the enemy in order to protect those behind them.

If the target is far, stay close to the client. Use your own body as the shield. If the target is near, engage them. Hit them hard and quick. Do not let any target pass you.

Those were the notes Ittou'd remembered writing down. Simple but to the point. Its one of the things from real life he could apply to in this world. It'll be a good principle to adhere. Thinking back, he felt somewhat relieved for choosing the class he's in. The armors appeared to be a bullet vest to him now, and his skills were his anti-terror technique, his close-quarter-combat tactics. It was something he's familiar with. His role kind of matched. Subconsciously, Ittou suddenly smirked. The thought of being a bodyguard like those found in feudal Japan somewhat amused him. Never have Ittou even dream of the day where he'll get to experience what it would have been like.

Movement on the horizon within his line of sight brought him back to Unfounded Kingdom. He exited the interface and studied the figures. They were Adventurers, like him. All three of them. Noticing himself finally at full health and mana, he thought he might learn something by observing this small party. So he decided to follow them from a distance. Slowly, he got up on his feet, sheathed his katana then trailed behind the group consisting of two level four male Sorcerers and a level one female Cleric.

They didn't seem to notice him yet as they headed for the more forestry area of Windsor Greatwood. With two mages and a healer, it's quite a strong force, thought the Samurai. Seeing the two males were much more experienced than he was, he assumed he'll get to learn something from them. But the presence of the level one female companion gave him the expression that the group was somewhat new. Probably in a desperate need for a healer. Or perhaps they'd found a better and faster way to level themselves up.

"Are you sure this will work?" a male asked the other.
"Trust me! It will!" came the reply. "With her in our team, we'll make it this time round!"
"So, all I needed to do is cast the spell, right?" inquire the only female there.
"Yes! With you in between us, and that skill of yours, I'm sure we could double our current level and up yours close to us in no time!" said the male who sounded like the leader.
"What happened if things didn't go our way, brother?" asked the younger male sibling.
"Than you and her will use the Call of Home and head back to the city.." said the leader.
"Aren't you coming too? It sounded like you're telling us to leave you behind!" said the Cleric.
"Yes! That's exactly what I'm saying! Earlier today, when we were here battling. He died and I have to use Call of Home to escape death myself," explained the Adventurer. "But it must only be used as our last resort, alright?"
"Brother, look! The Green Slime is here!" exclaimed the younger one. "FROST SPEAR!" the boy shouted, engaging it with an icicle spear shooting out from in front of him towards the target. "First Blood, baby!" he grinned after glancing over his shoulder at the girl behind him.

From the look of it, Ittou concluded the group were most likely in their teens. Still, that didn't alter his motive one bit. He knew that these kids were probably more skillful at games than he was. Therefore, the Samurai found himself a spot and watched from about seven meters away. Casually leaning his back against a tree as he imagined himself together with them. How would he be of help? What role would he be playing? Against one enemy, it was obvious they could make it through without much trouble. But as the battle resumed, Ittou noticed how the group was attracting the other Green Slime. Although they're not attacking them yet, it sure looked like they were expecting a fight of their own.

"Where did these guys come from?" asked the girl, her voice slightly shaky as she became nervous at the growing numbers of Green Slime.
"We're not really sure ourselves but this is why we're certain we could raise our level quickly!" said the leader before he activated a move. "ORB OF LAVA!"

With that, a fist-sized lava orb hurled towards their first contacted Slime, damaging it upon impact before it started bouncing unto the next, ultimately engaging the curious four more around them. Now they'd got five targets to deal with. Ittou frowned a little, noticing something. Why did he do that move? Was it deliberately done? He eyed at the life of the first one where the Sorcerer had attacked and noticed how their magic seemed somewhat ineffective. To his surprise, they were actually having a hard time dealing with a level six Green Slime in the first place. And four more would only spell their doom. Something tells him they won't be able to make it. Not even with the healer in their group. The attack just weren't strong enough against these magic resistance creatures. He would have to intervene. He knew he didn't have to but the idea of them being denied with natural death didn't quite sit well with him.

Unfolding his arms from around his armored chest, Ittou spotted a few more group of Green Slime closing in. The number seemed to only grow. It was bad. Things didn't look like its in favor with the Adventurers. He'll have to do something. Fast.

"ORB OF L..." the younger brother almost said.
"STOP!!" Ittou exclaimed before dashing out of hiding and approaching the party. "Don't use that move!"
"Why not? It is useful skill! With this, I can attack all targets!" the boy retaliated, obviously annoyed at being interrupted.
"Yeah! And go away! This is our battle area!" said the leader.
"If you use that move, you'll be engaging with more than the present number of enemies!" said the Samurai with a hand already wrapped around the hilt of his weapon.
"That's the idea!" came the reply instead.
"Have you guys been keeping watch on their lives and at the effectiveness of your spells against them? Take a moment and take a look! Your magic didn't cause that big of damage to them and your lives continued decreasing, stressing her healing ability which is still too low to be of much help.. She's a level one for goodness sake. Besides, you guys aren't meant to be the protector sort!" he paused, allowing them to absorb what he'd said. "Let me help!"
"But your level is lower than ours too!" said the Cleric, almost defensively.
"Yes, but I'm a Samurai class! I'll draw their attention to me while you guys attack them with your magic. But only those other than that Orb of Lava skill! We don't need any more of them than this!"

Getting no reply from them other than the exchanged look of what seemed like frustration, Ittou thought that wasting any more time would not solve the matter. Hence, he drew his weapon out and jumped in with them, risking himself for them. Player-Killers, such thought hadn't occurred to him at that point of time. His only thought, was to keep these teenagers alive.

"DENKOSEKKA!" Ittou shouted before he quickly advances towards a target.

Just like before, an electrifying barrier engulfed him and his movements hastened. He went back and forth between two targets, trying his best to keep the monsters' interest on him instead of the magic wielders. But to his chagrin, they seemed more interested in them than the Samurai. Thus inevitably, their life dropped below the safe zone despite having the healer's ability still active on them. Fortunately, the Green Slime were too occupied on the trio that they weren't doing anything much to avoid his attack on them. He then told himself that he got to have that aggro thingy skill so he could pull the monsters' attention away from his allies. For the full fifteen seconds, Ittou have been doing his hard to deal as many damage as he could on a couple of targets. Enough for him to finish them off when his Ace Move timed out. True enough, he managed to kill off two out of the five total before the leader of the group fell.

"Ugh! Damn it! This sucks!" he cried out before his body vanished.
"Brother!"
"Keep your focus! Protect the healer!" Ittou commanded.

One thing he noticed about the Cleric was, every time she was hit, the healing spell stopped and they'd to wait what seemed like hours before she could cast it again. As soon as he could once again use his Ace Move, the only Sorcerer that's left too have fallen. But not before he finished off a Slime, bringing the number down to two. So it's now left with them two, the Cleric and Zantetsuken. Expertly, he went back and forth between the remaining targets, carefully avoiding the annoying curious bunch around them. It was hard to differentiate them by sight alone. Thankfully, the letters beside their name were different. Still, it was hard to stop their fierce attack from landing on the healer. The minute he cut one of the pair down, the other did the same to the Cleric. She too had fallen. Leaving him to fend the last one by himself. Fortunately, this one have sustained quite a number of damage as well. But so did he.

Deja vu!

Once again, he managed to survive. Barely. His life's percentage in the single digit this time round. He dropped to his knees, ignoring the other Green Slime around him. Slowly, they lost interest in the Samurai and dismissed themselves from the area. Ittou sighed. Relieved yet again. But back alone. Again.

So what did he manage to learn from this little skirmish? That somebody needed to keep track of the enemies around them. That somebody needed to keep an eye on everyone else's status and life bar. That communication is important. Or at least, a better understanding on the skills an ally possesses. He figured that its not only important for one to learn about those they're fighting against, the same too should be done to those they're fighting with, just so that the strategies and tactics used would work in their favor. Winning and losing lies in the hands of those who holds more knowledge over the other. Sort of.

Ittou found himself a nice spot near a tree. He sat and leaned against it, shutting his eyes and waited for his life to once again recover. This shouldn't be a safe place for anyone to be sleeping. Especially when its so far away from the city. But the Samurai didn't feel like moving. He thought he could still pick something up around this part of Windsor Greatwood if he could wait a little longer. Or at least that's what he was hoping for.

[Word Count: 2510]
| CLAIMED |

[zantetsuken]

All I remembered was the shadows that surrounded me. Looming. And although faceless, I could tell they were grinning.  

Their menacing laughter echoed loud across the dark alleyway. Despite so, nobody took notice of us. Not a single soul. 

This was how it first began. With either a fist or a baseball bat smacking over a palm. A provoking gesture. Intimidation.  

But it was their stomping, kicks and punches that were truly responsible for awakening my other self. No more, I'd said. 

No more going back home all bruised up and battered. No more blood. No more scars. It's time to put an end to this. 

So I gathered all the courage I could find that day. My jaws locked. My fists tightly clenched. And my heart quickened. 

The blood of my ancestors rushing throughout my being. Carrying the essence of a Samurai warrior within my veins.  

Revenge. They'd clamored. Tenfold. They'd sought. Driven by the new found strength, I let myself loose. Fury unleashed.  

My wrath. Their strikes now less painful. Shielded by adrenaline. I was outnumbered but not overpowered. I prevailed. 

Soon, I came to love this feeling. This power. I felt invincible. Nothing could stop me. I then became their leader, an idol. 

But an unfortunate turn of event befell me. Death. It came for the one I held dear. Forced me into reflecting on my actions. 

This wasn't how she'd brought me up to be. This wasn't what my mother would want out of her son. So I changed myself. 

Accepting the extended hand from beyond the lonely hole of brooding. I gained support. A friend. An assistant. An aid. 

A new path was drawn for me then. One which seemed somewhat fitted with the talent I possessed. A task at protecting. 

My body became a shield. My fists, their weapon. This was what I was meant to do. This was how I should wield myself. 

Tempering the Steel 

Ittou Senso 

"CRACK!" snapped a twig, startling the dozed off Samurai awake.

Instinctively, Ittou quickly reached for his weapon as he blinked his eyes opened. It was already quite dark now so they took quite a while to adapt to the change of light. Before him, he could see the silhouette of a man approaching. A level eight Adventurer. Another Samurai. The man had his sword drawn though, causing a wave of chill running down Ittou's spine. Was history going to repeat again? Was this man a Player Killer? And if he is, what would the man really gain from picking a low leveled player such as Ittou Senso? No matter how much he tried to think, he couldn't see a reasonable answer to that question. He thought it was somewhat irrational. That it wasn't right.

"Zantet-suken?" a husky voice sounded. "Of all the username you could have come up with, you chose that?" the stranger then bellowed, laughing towards the canopy above. "I'm sure you're aware that its also a name of one of our Ace Moves, right?" he grinned. "ZANTETSUKEN!" the man suddenly exclaimed, triggering a red glow over his weapon before he struck down the tree where Ittou have been leaning against.

The blade made a clean cut. Effortlessly. Like hot knife through butter. Slowly, the trunk gave way. The leaves above rustled and the branches crackled as it tilted and came crushing down unto the ground. Earth beneath them trembled. A second or two later, the fallen tree blinked and vanished into thin air. 

Ittou knew it was a harmless skill. A single digit damage move. Still, it was hard to tell what the man's intention was. From what he could tell, it was a hostile gesture. A sign of aggression. Provoking. Similar to what he'd encountered so many years ago when he was but a boy. Now, that familiar shadow towered before him. Grinning from ear to ear the same way as those from back then. In real life, such a bold confrontation would probably spell trouble for this unfortunate fellow. But here, Ittou's skills was limited to what Zantetsuken was capable of doing. At least until he'd achieved a higher level. 

How should he deal with this?

"Look, I'm sure killing a level one wouldn't grant you much AP. So why do this?" Ittou asked.
"Huh?" the other Samurai frowned and tilted his head. "True that," he said before pausing, as if to think on his reply. "But even a low level Adventurer might carry some gold with them! Especially since they're out here and not yet back to the city.." he added.
"So, is that what you're here for?" Ittou questioned him.
"Hahahaha!" the bulkier Samurai burst out laughing. "It's good that you're wary of others but I can assure you that I'm not one of those types! And a word of advice, you shouldn't be out here in the..."

Before the man could finish, a rustling sound from behind them interrupted him, stealing both the Adventurers' attention. Their heads turned towards the source. At first glance, there don't seem to be anything if it weren't for the name and numbers above the intruder. It was a plant. Standing as tall as a man. Kind of looked like one of those flytrap thing back in the real world. Hitoshi, the name of the man who approached Ittou, turned to face it.

"Shit!" he said. "Don't move!" he told Ittou. "Its a level ten Nepent Snatcher!" he then stated the obvious. "It must have felt that tremble! So as long as you don't move, he won't target you. I'll deal with it.." said Hitoshi.
"I can help," offered Ittou.
"You'll only get yourself killed!" Hitoshi warned him. "Just sit back and enjoy the show, Zantetsuken!" the man smiled.
"Just call me Zan.. Zantetsuken is quite a mouthful to call.." said Ittou.
"Alright, Zan.. Watch and learn buddy!" with that, Hitoshi made the first move. "KABUTOWARI!!!"

Charging towards the target, the Samurai delivered a vertical slash on the man-sized plant, cutting downward from the head, inflicting extra damage on the target. He then sidestepped out of its counterattack as the giant flytrap attempted to clamp down on the Adventurer. Ittou watched the match attentively, mentally taking note of both combatants in front of him. Hitoshi then initiated a Beginner's skill, the Aura Saber, swinging his weapon about him and bringing it down on his enemy. True enough, the duel seemed one sided, favoring the Adventurer. But the situation was about to change when a second Nepent Snatcher joined in the fray from out of nowhere. Blindsided, Histoshi didn't see the other plant. And as he waited for the cooldown, he received damage from the monster before him.

"Watch your flank! You got company!" Ittou exclaimed.
"Got it.. Thanks!" the man nodded before jumping out of the way of the other's attack.

The only way Ittou could be of help was exactly that. To provide information for the newly acquainted companion from the side. Naturally, he swiped for the interface. With keen eyes, he intensely studied the battle. A level eight Samurai against two level ten Nepent Snatcher. This won't be easy. Hastily, the former bodyguard opened a few tab to view. He had the bestiary tab and the skill tab opened. Luckily, the monster didn't seem to have any worrisome skills on them. But still, they pack quite a punch on an Adventurer. By now, Ittou had a rough idea of the skills Hitoshi possessed and its description. The Kabutowari, the Zantetsuken and the Aura Saber. Ittou tried to think of a way on how these skills can be used to save the man. On how they could lead Hitoshi to victory. But as hard as he tried, he couldn't think of any. He did thought of a way on how the man could delay or escape from the engagement though. 

"Avoid using the Aura Saber on the one with full health, it'll only increase its aggro even higher, probably making an attempt at escape that much harder!" heeded Ittou.
"Are you telling me to run away?" yelled Hitoshi.
"Isn't that what you have in mind when you acquire the Zantetsuken?" Ittou replied with a question.
"Tch!" the man snorted. "You think you have it all figured out, huh?"
"Why else would one possess that skill if not to escape a match?" asked the level one Samurai.
"I'm also a Hunter, Zan.. And I use that move to lower a target's life so I could easily capture it!" explained Hitoshi.
"I see.. So you intend to capture them?" asked Ittou.
"No, it's mostly used on the Pittered Boars! Not on these overgrown flytraps!" Hitoshi continued.
"I don't mean to teach an experienced player on how to handle a fight, here. It's merely a suggestion.. I just thought sometimes, the one watching have a better grasp on the situation than those directly involved!" Ittou clarified.
"No worries, Zan..." panted the level eight Samurai as he received another blow. "But," he paused to dodge another attack. "I don't mind listening to your plan.. Say if I were to escape from this match, what do you reckon I do?"
"I would suggest you use Kabutowari on the fresh vegetable before you accidentally damaged it when using the Aura Saber! Focus your attack on the first target then. You should be able to kill the thing with enough HP on yourself to sustain a couple more hits from the other one. I suggest you then use Zantetsuken to punch a hole for your escape. It'll hopefully distract or confuse it long enough for you to get out of the scene," explained Ittou.
"Sounds like a plan.. But what if it didn't work?" Histoshi asked. 
"Then you'll end up dead!" Ittou stated plainly.
"Tch! That sucks!"

Both of the Adventurers knew the outcome. They both knew that if this were to proceed the way it was going, then Hitoshi would most likely not survive. It actually came as a surprise to Ittou. Seeing how this Adventurer have sounded so confident and cocky when the skills he'd chosen was somewhat rather weak, offensively. He should have chosen something stronger. Something with a chain to link one attack with another. Nonetheless, he was thankful. If it hadn't been for their meeting, he probably would have made the same mistake. 

"I guess this is goodbye for us, Zan!" Hitoshi suddenly claimed. "Although our meeting is short, its been a pleasure!"
"The honor is mine, Hitoshi!" came Ittou's reply as he watched the first Nepent Snatcher fall.
"Don't be a stranger in our next meeting, my friend!" smiled the Samurai.

Just as Ittou'd mentally calculated, the Samurai was left with a couple of percentage in his life. Two more hits and it'll be over for Hitoshi. As quietly as he could, Ittou then get up on his feet. His stance now low and his blade was out behind him, slightly raised. The moment Hitoshi activated the Zantetsuken move on a tree, Ittou had his focus glued on the target. It didn't work. The plan failed. It was attracted to the sound of Hitoshi's fleeing feet, just as Ittou'd feared. 

"Keep running! Don't look back!" Ittou yelled before he stomped a foot on the ground and exclaimed, "DENKOSEKKA!"

This was his back up plan. He'd lied to Hitoshi when he'd said the man would be dead if the plan had failed. He's just not the type to say he'll intervene and trry to save the higher level Samurai in the man's face. It's just not in his nature to boast about his deeds. He used to though, but not anymore. However, Hitoshi was still within earshot when Ittou successfully grabbed the plant's attention. The bulkier Samurai stopped in his track and looked back despite his newly found companion warning. He watched as Ittou's body began sparking off with blue bolts, brightening the area as they leapt all over his armor. He saw how Ittou then dealt a couple of damage on the enemy before heading off into the woods in the opposite direction. Hitoshi unconsciously smiled and nodded, silently applauding the man's guts and courage.

An honor indeed! 

Running away from a fight wasn't actually as easy as he'd thought. Especially not when the path ahead was full of trees and blockades. So what he could come up with when he ran into a hindrance was a hit and run tactic, where he'd turned around to inflict damage on the pursuer than dash away in another direction that was open. By his calculation, he wouldn't be able to survive this. The Nepent Snatcher required three more hits and he could only last for two more. As of that moment, he was merely delaying the inevitable. Stubbornly, for some unknown reason, he continued with the Guerilla tactic, stealing hits and making attempts at dodging while offering as little chance on receiving damage as he could. Ittou winced when they're both down to the last hit. Or so he'd hoped the plant was. The number above the bar for his life was already blinking red. This was it. His end. All those AP he could have earned might just go to waste with his doom. Regretfully, he shook his head as he turned back and deliver what he was sure to be a needless attack. It wouldn't be enough to slay it.

However, probably a surprise to both duelist, Ittou managed to land a critical attack on the monster, killing it before it could finish the Samurai off. It was stronger than his usual attack. Something which Ittou'd never really expected. It was a miracle. He was sure he'd died on the battlefield three times now. All of his encounter today was with a touch of luck. Without it, he wouldn't have reached this far. Quietly, Ittou glanced over his shoulder, staring back at the direction he'd come from. 

Did you manage to get back to the city safely, Hitoshi? 

The silent question was brief and he lingered there not a moment longer. Who knows what else he might come across? Whatever they might be though, Ittou wouldn't want to find that out so soon. Thus, he hurried himself out of the forest and back on Windsor Greatwood's main road.

He now have a better grasp on his class. A better understanding on the skills and their moves. He'd gotten a rough idea on what he should acquire for himself in order to survive in this world. For both solo as well as a member to a party, as he either choose to go in search for answers or for a quest. And he knew, that to better himself as a Samurai, he'd also need to focus on the sub-classes he'd chosen. He'll have to increase their level along the way. They would no doubt be helpful to him at reaching his goals. Perhaps he might consider joining a guild if not start one himself. He guessed he'll have to see what the future brings. What fate would offer him. Until then, he'll have to take it a day at a time.

[Word Count: 2518]
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