Metal Gear Genshin Rising
Chapter 1 Fall of the Archon
Inazuma Palace
The sun rose over the country of Inazuma. The people are prosperous under the watchful eye of the Mighty Electro Arcon, Raiden Shogan. Radiant Shogun-Narukami Ogosho, God of Thunder. One who seeks eternity. Raiden Shogun's physical appearance is that of an adult woman, with long braided violet hair behind her back and on the right side of her head is attached a hairpin with pale violet flowers resembling morning glories and a fan-shaped piece. Raiden has purple eyes and she has a beauty mark below her right eye. She wears a small crimson ribbon on her neck as a choker and a dark-colored bodysuit underneath her kimono. The sleeves of her bodysuit completely cover her arms and are looped over her middle fingers with golden rings to partly cover her palms and the top of her hands, and her nails are painted purple.
Raiden's kimono has an assortment of patterns in different shades of purple and crimson, along with a badge bearing the Mitsudomoe emblem of Inazuma tied to the front of her clothing below her right breast and a more elaborate emblem on a pauldron on her left shoulder. The back of her outfit, she wears a crimson bow with tassels. She wears dark purple thigh-high stockings with small diamond openings at the top and high-heeled sandals; the one on the right is adorned with two of the same violet flowers on her hairpin. The Shogan is very busy running the country and dealing with a lot of issues that come with it. The Tri-Commission made of the Kamisato, Koujou and Hiiragi clan assist the Shogun in running Inazuma. Recently there have been diplomatic talks with Signora, an ambassador from the Fauti. After talks about government affairs, they move onward to local affairs.
"Your Excellency, there have been reports of a decrease in activity of the Nabushi and Hilichurls throughout Nakamura." one official report.
"Elaborate."
"There have been talks about a local adventurer actively engaging in heavily habited areas of the Nabushi." the official continued his report.
"This adventurer seems to have some skill if he is engaging them."
"He has already taken out many highly wanted Nobushi and outlaws that have caused trouble around Nobushi were also highly skilled."
"Who is he?" the Shogan slightly curious.
"Um, the locals call him Minuano, but his adventure name is registered Jetstream Sam."
"Minuano? Such an unusual name?" Shogun replied with a stern expression
"Your Excellency?"
"Your Excellency, there is also a report about Minuano's recently completed a few highly important tasks from the Grand Shrine Maiden and she holds him in high regards." another officer reports. The Shogan had an expressionless look on her face.
"Continue to monitor this adventurer. I may have a use for this adventurer in the future."
"Yes your Excellency."
"What other matters are there?"
"There have been recent sightings of strange looking machines in the far north. No other sightings have been reported about these strange machines."
"Take a scouting party and continue to monitor their activity Report any changes in their activities." Shogun commanded.
"Yes, your Excellency." The officer bowed and took off.
The Shogan continued with her daily task. Outside of the castle, a strange mechanical creature emerged from the sandy beach below the castle. They were moving into a strange formation around the bottom of the castle. Around the same time, high in the sky, an approaching army descends and prepares their attack on the castle. The Shogun was walking through the palace when she was stop by one of the guards that was out of breath from running.
*Huff* *Huff* "Your Excellency we are under attack!"
"Who would be foolish enough to attack us? Sound the alarm and prepare for battle!" Shogan commanded.
"Yes, your Excellency!" The soldier obeyed.
A group of strange machine creatures landed at the entrance of the palace. The same time a barrier surrounded the castle leaving only the sky and the small entrance available for entry and exit. Koujo Sara,a warrior Tengu and commanding general, took command of the battlefield. Enemy troops began to drop from the sky aided by the strange machines. The battle took place at the entrance of the palace. The machines landed outside and made their way to where the battle took place. The larger machines (Ruin Guardian and Hunter) increased in numbers. A lot of the soldiers were defeated and at the pace things were going the castle will be lost. Raiden Shogan watches from the top as her army battles these strange machines and these part human machines. The Shogun's eyes glow purple and open a portal and walk through it.
The bottom of the castle
The larger machines stood outside guarding the outside ensuring no one else gets out or in the palace. The Shogan appears on the stairs leading down to the entrance, her eyes still glowing purple, she displays her godly power and draws out her katana. She swings her sword to the sky eliminating the threat from the sky. The Shogan looks down at the remaining army, her eyes are still glowing purple.
"Eliminate all obstacles." She spoke in a cold tone.
Raiden Shogan was like lighting, slashes and cuts up the invaders. The Hunter machines fire their missiles at her. Shogan assumes her quick draw stance and launches energy projectiles that cut through the missiles and slice through the Hunters. More of the Guardians were coming through the entrance and she cuts them down. She cuts down the larger guardians that were outside in a flash, like lightning. Four more appear inside the castle and are heading for her. Raiden dashes back inside and engages them. She swings her sword hitting their ankles and then proceeds to destroy their core. The machines fall down and stop moving entirely.
The men let out a loud cheer. Shogun stylishly puts her sword away.
After she destroys the machines, her forces meet her in the middle. She began to issue her orders and capture the survivors for questioning. Before anyone begins to do anything, a strange person enters the palace with a large group of Nobushi.
*Slow Clapping SFX*
"A remarkable display of power, indeed worthy of ruling this country." an unknown person comments with a large group of civilians behind him.
"Who are you? State your business." Shogun commanded with a stern express.
"Straight to business as always. The rumors were spot on about you. I am Aether . I am looking forward to my stay in people here are very friendly."
"The only thing you will be looking forward too, is a trip to oblivion along with the rest of these foolish mortals that aid you." replied with a stern expression and prepared to kill Aether.
"Hmph. I think not today." Aether replied.
Shogun notices that some citizens are behind Aether and the reason is unknown.
"Citizens, why do you aid this man. He is a danger to Inazuma and Eternity. Leave this place at once." The Shogun command.
The people didn't leave but instead stood behind Aether like he was their savior and protector.
"Citizens, why do you hide behind this man?" The Shogun asked.
The citizens did not reply, only trembling in fear and hiding behind their new savior.
"What have you done to them?" Shogun questions him.
"Me? I've done nothing to them. You see for yourself. Maybe if you watch them more closely, you would notice." Slightly smirking.
The Shogun could tell something was not right with her people as they were being influenced by Aether . The very thing she swore to protect has been turned against her.
*Stabbing SFX*
Shogun felt a blade stabbed and pierce her from behind causing her to fall on one knee and her energy quickly being drained . She glanced to see who her attacker was and was shocked to see who stabbed her. In addition, the soldiers behind Sara soldiers looked like the Shoguns but were actually Nobushi in disguise.
"Commander Koujo? You dare betray the Shogun and Inazuma?"
"I'm sorry, your Excellency, but we no longer need your protection." Sara replied with an expressionless face.
"You and your clan will be put to death for your transgression." Shogun replied.
"You no longer have the power to do so." Sara replied and pushed the blade in more causing her to grunt in pain.
Shogun summoned what strength she had left and kicked Sara off her. Shogan opens a portal and runs through it.
"Impressive, you are indeed worthy to be called the Shogun." Aether commented.
"After her, she could not have gone far in her current condition!" Sara commanded the troops.
"Follow them." Aether commanded another group of Nobushi.
Elsewhere in Inazuma
A fierce and destructive wind with sakura leaves travels across the land heading towards the palace.
The Palace
The wounded Shogan appeared mid-way up the stairs. The Nobushi forces wasted no time coming after her. Shogan tightened her grip on her sword and cut her way through. She made her way to the throne room where she would make her last stand. The Nobushi covered the entrance preventing her from escaping. The Nobushi just laugh at their cornered prey.
"The boss said to bring her back alive." one grinned.
"Yes, but they never said she needed all her limbs." another one grinned.
"Insolence! I will send you to oblivion!" Shogun grinned and pointed her sword at them.
Bottom of the castle
"They should have captured her already. She barely has any power left. Plus with that wound she won't be able to put up much of a fight." Paimon points out.
"Now ,now, I'm sure she still has some fight in her. Plus we still need that remaining power that is in her before disposing of her." Aether points out.
"Oh yeah you're right about that. You think those wild swordsmen will leave her with all her limbs?" Paimon asked.
"Guess I should have made that clear as well."
A fierce wind blew past them heading to the castle.
"What was that?" Paimon asked.
"Not sure, I don't recall seeing or hearing about such a fierce wind in Inazuma." Aether replied.
The Throne room
The Shogan prepares to make her final stand and a few Nobushi charge in at her. Suddenly a strong gust of wind with Sakura leaves blows into the room and cuts some of the Nobushi. A powerful ameno wind separates the Shogun and Nobushi. A figure appears in the air above the Shogun and slices one Nobushi in front of her in half from head to toe and twirls its katana around and strikes another hard enough to send him flying into the group behind him. Shogun was not sure if the one who appeared before her was an enemy or ally. It was another Nobushi, type Kikouban, however this one wore a demonic looking mask under his hat and his outfit was gray instead of purple. The sheath on his katana wasn't the usual one the Shogun has seen before and the katana blade was red. Sakura leaves were falling down after the wind died down.
"Kept you waiting huh?" Sam smiled under his mask.
Several months before the attack
It was a full moon that shined down on Inazuma tonight. The Grand Priest, Yae Miko, was out for a walk around the base of Mt. Yougou in Chinju. Along the way she came across a group of five Nobushi that have been following her. They had no idea that she had been watching them since she made it to the base of the mountain. They attempted to ambush her but they couldn't even lay a hand on her fur. Yae's eyes glowed and she unleashed a barrage of lighting on them. After the barrage was finished none of the Nobushi were left standing.
*Signed* "Here I thought you would entertain me for tonight's walk. Guess I'll head back, pour some sake and catch up on some reading." Yae having a disappointed expression.
She began to make her way up the mountain. While she made her way up, her ears twitched a bit and she looked back in the direction of the Nobushi she slayedi.
"Hmm?" Glancing behind her.
After she was no longer in the area, one of the slain Nobushi mysteriously sits up gasping for air. Samuel Rodriguez, Minouna a.k.a "Jetstream Sam" was alive and in a whole new world. The last thing he remembered was his final battle with Raiden. He looks around the area for the first time and sees a new world much different from the one he was in.
"Where the hell am I?" Sam asked.
He looked around at his surroundings and noticed the dead bodies and how they were dressed. He also looked at what he was wearing and gave a pleased expression since the clothes he wore suited him and he continued to observe his surroundings.
"Is this some kind of fantasy land?" He continued to ask himself.
He heard a noise out in the distance. Sam decided it would be better to leave the area before it comes back. Whatever it was that took out these, men may come back to finish him off. Sam searches the bodies in the area to see if there is anything that will be useful. While Sam was searching bodies, Yae Miko was standing on a cliff, looking down at the area Sam was in. The only thing she saw was a strange Nobushi dressed differently and searching for his fallen comrades. Yae saw nothing out of the ordinary and let out a sign of disappointment and walked off. Sam felt a gaze as if someone was watching him from afar. He turned around and saw no one around. Sam did see his katana that he later upgraded into a high frequency blade in it's customize sheath. A high-frequency blade was a sword reinforced by a powerful alternating current and resonating at extremely high vibration frequencies. This oscillation weakened the molecular bonds of anything it cuts, thereby increasing its cutting ability.
Sam drew his katana, the Muramasa and examined it. The katana was indeed the same one he used before. Sam stylishly sheaths his katana and puts his circular hat on and walks off.
Sam was walking through a grassy area that brought him out to a dirt road in Byakko plains. He knew if he followed the road it would lead him to people who could answer his questions about this place. Along the way he came across an old couple that was being attacked by a group of Hilichurls. The old man did what he could to protect his wife. Sam made quick work of the Hilichurls and continued on his way. After the battle he realizes he doesn't have his suit but can still perform as if he had old couple stopped and thanked Sam for helping them and went so far as to offer him a place to stay for saving them. Sam didn't see any issue with the offer and took him up on his offer.
"Who are you?" The old woman asked.
"Oh, no one special but you can call me Minuano or Sam." He replied.
"By the way Sam, are you an adventurer?" The Old man asked?
"A what?" Sam replied.
"A adventurer, they do all sorts of jobs for a living. You must be a high ranking one with your skills?" The old lady asked.
Sam processed the information he received from the couple.
"Basically, adventures are a type of mercenary for hire. They are not so different from the line of work I'm used to doing." Sam thought to himself.
"No, I'm not." Sam replied.
"Well then, we need to get you registered as well. A man with your skills and talent should not let them go to waste." The old lady replied.
They arrive at Konda town finally. While walking through the street the people gave him stare but Sam just ignored them.
"It's because you're dressed like a Nabushi. They don't have a very good reputation here. Most of them are in groups, so seeing one by himself will put the on guard."
"Sound like they are causing alot of trouble for the folks here." Sam commented.
"The Nabushi around here have caused us a lot of problems. The people here are not warriors. A lot of them are simple farmers."
They continued walking through the town and got Sam settled in one of the houses not being used. The old couple was actually the Chief of the village, which Sam found out later on. The next day, the chief took Sam down to Inazuma City and got him registered in the Adventure guild. The same reaction with the other town, the crowd stared at Sam as he walked through the town with the Chief. If the Chief was not there things would have been different. Katheryne, the receptionist, gave a cheerful greeting to the Chief.
"Greetings Chief, how may I assist you today?" Katheryne asked.
"Today I came to register this young lad as an adventurer."
"Eh? A Nabusi wants to be an adventurer? I've never heard of this before." Katheryne was shock.
"This lad saved me and my wife. He is more of a samurai than a Nabushi. My wife and I, would not be here if it weren't for him. I can testify that he has the potential to be great and go far." The Chief explained.
Katheryne looked at Sam suspiciously.
"Is this true." Katheryne asked
"It is as the Chief say. I just so happen to be passing by." Sam replied.
Katheryne went ahead and processed his paperwork. After some time passed everything was finalized and just needed to put his name on his card.
"Your name?"
"Jetstream Sam." Sam replied
The Chief gave him a look at the unusual name he had for himself.
"I've known the Chief for a long time and I know he is not one to make things up. If he is willing to vouch for you then I look forward to see your progress as an adventurer. Here is your guidebook and you are all set."
"Thank you Katheryne . We will be on our way." Chief bid farewell to Katheryne .
"Look forward to seeing you again Sam." Katheryne smiled and waved them off.
A month later
Sam's reputation was slowly rising as an adventurer. There has been an increase in Hilichurls attacks on the roads along with people going missing. The latest kidnapping was a Shrine Maiden that usually works at the top of the Nakamura Mountain. After the first one went missing at night, so they decided to travel during the day. She just recently went missing after finishing a commission in town and hasn't checked back in the shrine .
Grand Narukami Shrine
"Lady Yae! Lady Yae!" Hitomi called out to Yae Miko.
Yae Miko- Chief of the Grand Narukami Shrine and wise and beautiful enigma. Miko has purple eyes and long, muted pink hair that is tied at the bottom. Miko wears a unique and stylized variation of clothing inspired by the colors of a shrine priestess' traditional outfit. She wears a golden head accessory accompanied by matching golden earrings.
"Hmm? What's all the excitement about?" Miko is currently reading a book from Yae Publishing.
"Nana has gone missing and they just posted it up in town."
"What? We are still investigating Maki's disappearance." Miko replied.
"If this keeps up there won't be anyone left to tend to the shrine."
"Tsk. Its dangerous to leave unaccompanied and too important to neglect the duties and request outside the shrine."
"We will need to hire adventurers to escort us."
"Lady Yae, a lot of the adventures are scattered doing different commissions. There is no telling when they will be back in town."
"Contact the Adventure guild and get a list of available adventurers."
"Yes Lady Yae."
The afternoon came and a Hawk came and delivered the list names. Miko and Hotomi were sorting through the list of names.
"I found a few names, but they have not done anything like escorting." Hitomi commented.
"We can't be too picky since this is a short notice."
"Lady Yae, take a look at this one." Hitomi passes the paper to Miko.
"What kind of name is this? Minuano a.k.a Jetstream Sam." Miko asked.
"I'm not sure but look at this." Hitomi points on the paper.
"A samurai?" Miko is a bit curious now.
"Why would a samurai become an adventurer?" Hitomi asked.
"This must be no ordinary samurai. Look at some of the jobs he has done recently."
"Escort a few merchants and government officials from Ritou. He was a bodyguard for a few officials who went overseas here in Inazuma city. The list goes on."
"He only recently became an adventurer and he has done this much."
"I have need of his service." Miko demanded.
"There is a note stating he is currently out on commission."
"Tsk. We will still add him to the list. Give these names we have selected to the Adventure Guild. Let them know that we request this one specifically along with the others.
"I will make haste, Lady Yae."
"Hmm. Minuano." Miko is drinking under the Sacred Sakura tree and a cool breeze blows by.
Inazuma City
Sam has been in Inazuma for a month and is slowly getting used to his new life here. He just finished his commissions for the day and is heading to inform Katheryne. She had just finish updating the missing people board and made her way back to the desk. Miko sent one of her priest to town to find out more about Sam.
"Welcome Mr. Minuano, how may I help you today." cheerful as always with everyone.
"I'm finished with my commissions for the day." Sam replied
"Again, you complete your commissions in a timely manner."
"All in a day's work." Sam replied.
"At the pace you're going, you will be one of our top adventurers in no time."
"Nothing wrong with that. I'll be back tomorrow." puts on his hat and leaves.
Sam left the reception desk as quickly as he came in like the wind. Shortly after he left, Katheryne received an envelope addressed to Sam but he was already gone. The same time another one of the Shrine Maidens asked about Sam's whereabouts.
"What do you mean he left already? It's very important that he takes this commission." Miyuki pleaded.
"He usually leaves shortly after he receives his payment. He will be here at first light tomorrow morning."
"Lady Yae specifically requested for him after the recent shrine maiden went missing." Miyuki looks over at the board with missing people including Nana.
"I hope they will be able to find them all soon." Katheryne had a concerned look while looking at the board.
"When you see him, give him this envelope and direct him to this location." Miyuki instructed.
"I will pass this to him when I see him tomorrow." Katheryne replied
Road back to Konoda Byakko plain
Sam was on the road heading back to Konoda. While heading back he stop by one of the small restaurants to have a quick meal.
"Sam, good to see you again. Will you have the usual?" The owner asked him.
"Yes, the usual if you would." Sam grabs one of the open seats outside.
After a couple of minutes, the owner comes out with ramen.
"The word on the street is that people have been going missing lately. Just recently another shrine maiden went missing after she finished one of her jobs. She was last seen in the Byakko plains. You make sure you get home before dark." the owner informed Sam.
"Another Shrine Maiden? I won't be surprised if they call in adventures to escort them. The pay may be worth it." Sam replied.
"Regardless, you should be careful out on the roads."
"I'll keep my eyes open and you should do the same."
Sam continued with his meal until a pack of Hilichurls attacked and surrounded the restaurant. The owner did his best to keep the customers calm. One of the customers panicked and dropped their food and attempted to leave, but one of the larger Hilichurls smacked him back into the restaurant area crashing into Sam's table. Sam just paused for a moment before he got up. He looked around and noticed the other customers panicking.
"Well I can't have them messing up my favorite eating spot." Sam gets up and pays for his food despite it being destroyed.
"Here, thanks for the meal."
"Where are you going?"
"Oh, just a little exercise after a meal." Sam replied.
"We should wait for the Shogun's guards to get here."
"The Shoguns guards wouldn't get here in time besides, they ruined my meal that I've been looking forward to all day." Sam glances at the pack of Hilichurls.
"Do you see how many of them are out there?"
"Just sit tight here. I will borrow this for a bit." Sam grabbed a wooden sword.
Sam vs Hilichurls pack
*Rules of Nature-MGR cue*
Sam makes his way casually to the pack Hilichurl that are approaching the restaurant. He counts how many there are and the different types.
"Hmm? Only 10 of them. I'll make quick work and be on my way."
Sam draws the wooden sword and rests it on his shoulder while he is walking towards them. A couple of archers open fire on him. Sam dodges the arrows with inhumane speed. He dashes forward and hits one of the larger Hilichurls in the head, knocking it out. The archers fire more shots and Sam blocks them with the wooden sword. A larger Hilichurls runs towards Sam and starts spinning with its fiery ax. Sam just chuckled and dashed forwards and leaps. The Hilichurls, still in the middle of his attack, Sam attacks its head and then hits its ankle hard enough that it sweeps it off its feet. The Shaman Hilichurls used this chance to chant one of its spells. Sam knocks out two more of the archers. Sam's attack in a burst of speed that sent the Shaman Hilichurl flying out the area. The remaining Hilichurls came at Sam from all sides looking to surround him. Sam attacks and dodges their attacks until they are all knocked out.
Sam walks back to the restaurant and talks with the owner.
"That was amazing! I've never seen anyone move that fast before, did you use a vision to do all of that?" the owner asked?
"A what?" Sam asked.
"You know, a Vision, the gift from Gods to aid people." the owner replied.
"No, can't say that I do, however you should go home." Sam shook his head.
"No Vision and you did all that. Perhaps you will awaken one later on. I'll close up here and head home." The owner began to close up shop.
The few people that were there thanked him and then hurried off home. Sam grabs his things, returns the wooden sword and continues on the road home.
Along the way home, Sam was feeling a little tired and decided to take a short rest. He came across a statue with a hooded woman on it.
"This should be a nice spot for a little nap. Hope I have something pleasant to dream about with you watching." Sam lightly chuckled and began to rest. The statue slowly lights up and a purple sphere flies into Sam who is still napping
The circle in the middle of the statue lights up a purple light. Sam found himself in Byakko fields on a clear day. He walked around and didn't find anything unusual. The scenery changed and Sam found himself at the top of a mountain with the Sacred Sakura tree. He sees a woman with long braided violet hair, a purple kimono and dark leggings.(Raiden Shogun). The woman looking from the mountain. Sam is curious about who this mysterious and beautiful woman is. The woman (Raiden) senses the presence of someone there with her and turns around. She sees the back of someone who she is not familiar with staring into the sky. The sky began to darken and fireballs began to fall from the sky. Inazuma was not the only place to be attack as these strange fireballs fell into other countries from Inazuma. (Mondstate and Linyue) The dream ends with Inazuma being attacked by some unknown force. Sam wakes up from his nap and tries to recall the dream. The only thing that stood out to him was the woman with long violet hair. Sam just shrugs it off and continues on his way home. The statue behind Sam was still flashing purple as he was walking away.
Next morning Inazuma city
Sam travels to the city to start his day. Upon arriving, there was a group of guards heading out in the direction that he just came from. Sam, not worried about it, continued on his way to the reception desk. When he got there, he noticed a shrine maiden in the area and was a little curious as to why one of them was there. They are usually at the top of the mountain.
"Mr. Minuano, I am so glad you're here. I have a big commission for you today."
"Oh?"
"I was instructed to give you this letter and direct you to this location."
Sam opens the letter and reads it. The letter states Grand Shrine Maiden Yae Miko requests his services and more detail will be provided once he arrives at Grand Narukami Shrine. He will be escorted by one of the shrine maidens.
"Well I wonder what kind of job she has in mind." Rubbing his chin.
"It must be very important if she is seeking service from you. Oh, A Shrine Maiden will be in this location and will depart once everyone has arrived."
"Well, let's not keep the Shrine Maiden waiting."
"Good luck on your commission."
Sam proceeded to the location. When he arrived, there were four other adventurers and one Shrine Maiden Hitomi, waiting. Hitomi notices that they have the number of adventurers they requested. She announced that they will be departing to Narukami Shrine.
Hitomi observed the adventurers along the way so that she could give her assessment to Lady Yae. Along the way they came across two groups of small monsters. The other four adventurers wasted no time taking care of them while Sam stood back watching them. One the adventurers was efficient in boxing. Sam's thoughts were any adventurer could take out these small fry and there was no point to get too excited about it. Hitomi was a little assured at the adventurer skills, however her thoughts were aligned with Sam.
They reached the shrine and everyone was just amazed about the enchanting place. Hitomi looked around and saw that one person was not there.
"We are missing one person?" Hitomi points out.
The other adventurers looked around briefly and didn't seem to care much that one person was missing. The remaining adventurers' mind set was one less person to pay and more for them after this commission. Hitomi starts to panic and wonders what happened to the other adventure. She stopped for a moment and saw Lady Miko near the edge of the entrance looking down the stairs. She walks up to where Miko was and looks down the stairs. There was the other adventurer Sam, taking a knee and petting one of the foxes that live around the shrine area.
"How strange, they usually don't even go near people most of the time, however this one is allowing him to touch and pet her. Interesting." Miko looking down at Sam amused.
She heads back to prepare to brief everyone as soon as Sam gets there.
Sam was walking up the stairs and admiring the view. After he reached the top he was even more impressed by the Sacred Sakura tree that was in the middle of the shrine
"Nothing like a sword fight under the cherry blossom." Sam chuckled.
"Sir, please refrain from such activity and head to the center of the shrine to be brief." Hitomi directed.
Sam heads to the center of the shrine where the other adventurers were located. Yae Miko made her way to the center where the Sacred Sakura tree was. The adventures glaze upon Miko and her beautiful figure. Sam looked at the adventures and then at Miko. Sam strokes his chin and smiles with amusement. Miko began to brief adventurers about the current commission. She stated that they will escort a shrine maiden to Ritou and back. Miko also explained about the ongoing kidnappings in the event they were not aware of it. Sam was wondering about the commission and if it was necessary for this amount of people to escort a shrine maiden. He also suspected that there could be something else going on that he is not being told. While Sam was pondering about the current commission, Miko's eyes locked with Sam and she gave a cheerful smile while still briefing. Sam was a little surprised then he just lightly chuckled. He had a feeling that something exciting would happen on this commission and he wouldn't want to miss it. Miko finishes her briefing and asks if they are still willing to accept the commission.
"One last thing I forgot to mention. I will be the shrine maiden that you will be escorting." Miko is still giving a cheerful smile .
"Now how will you respond to this commission?Most people would crack under pressure when someone of a high status is involved." Miko thought to herself.
Miko shocks everyone with the unexpected news, including the other shrine maidens.
"Lady Yae, what is the meaning of this? We were not informed about this part of the commission." Miyuki was in shock.
"I know, however, this is necessary." Miko just smiled and had an expression like she already knew how this would turn out.
Three of the other adventurers turned it down because they felt that they were not up to the task of something this important and left the area. Miko did thank them for hearing her request and three adventures departed the shrine. Miko turns to the remaining adventures and informs them that they will depart in the morning and in the meantime they may rest up for the rest of the day. Miko walked by Miyuki and Hitomi who were curious on how things went.
"Lady Yae, did they accept the commission?" Hitomi asked.
"Indeed they have accepted. Now I want to see how capable they are." Miko replied.
Evening at the shrine
The shrine was quiet at night and the candles lit up the area. Miko heads out to the Sacred Sakura tree to unwind from the long day. She noticed that someone else was sitting there along with a fox laying next to him. Miko wondered who would dare take her favorite reading spot. She moves closer and sees that it is Sam drinking a small cup of sake. She gives a mischievous smile and walks towards Sam. Sam felt a presence approaching him.
"Greetings Samurai." Miko walks out of the dark and into the moonlight towards him and stops.
"And you are?" Sam getting up.
"The head shrine maiden of the Grand Narukami Shrine, Yae Miko. You may call me Lady Yae."
"A simple adventurer named Minuano a.k.a Jetstream Sam. You can just call me Minuano."
"Oh, so you're Minuano. I've heard much about you and your achievement as an adventurer."
"Oh?"
"Taking on many jobs that most adventurers pass up or don't even get offered."
"Gotta make a living somehow."
"I'm curious as to why you take on commissions that other adventurers wouldn't do?"
"Me? I'm just sharpening my skills and wandering around this lovely place called Inazuma."
"Yes, Inazuma is a lovely place. Surely there is more of a reason than that."
"Wouldn't you like to know. *lightly chuckle*There is one thing I'm curious about. Perhaps you can answer this question for me."
"Ara, what question do you have for me?"
"What the hell is a Vision? I hear people talk about it once in a while while working."
Miko's ears slightly twitch after hearing Sam's question. In all her years in Inazuma, never has she heard such an absurd question as this one.
"This was not what I was expecting but I'll entertain this question for tonight. Either he has been living under a rock or he is from somewhere that Vision is not very well known. However he is very serious about this question." Miko thought to herself.
"Visions is a gift bestowed upon those who dwell in Teyvat and are recognized by the gods. Those that have them are granted abilities based on the vision they have."
"These visions, are they something everyone can aquire?"
"No, not everyone can acquire them and it is not a simple matter to acquire one."
"Well it can't be helped."Sam lightly chuckled while shrugging it off.
"Do you seek to acquire a Vision?"
"No. If the gods are the one who decides if I receive one or not then I'll pass. If the people want one, I'm sure they will find a way to get one, however, I don't need it."
"Hmm, he doesn't have a vision and doesn't seek one unlike some of the people here. He simply wishes to rely on himself." Miko thought to herself.
"It's getting late and we have an early morning tomorrow. Good night Lady Yae." Sam gave a small bow and headed off.
Miko crosses her arms and watches Sam leave. After talking with Sam, she is more curious about him.
"A young man with no knowledge of a vision and does not seek to gain one. Minuano, where exactly did you come from? Will you show me something interesting on our little journey tomorrow?" Miko ponders.
Morning
The morning came and leaves fall from the Sacred Sakura tree. Miko just finished getting ready and heads out. She goes to the exit that leads down the mountain. Sam and the other adventurer were waiting there.
"Lady Yae, please be careful while you're out there. You guys make sure nothing happens to her." Miyuki expressed her concern.
"Don't worry, I have two capable adventurers here with me. I'm in good hands." Miko smiled while looking at the two adventures.
Miyuki had a concerned expression but it was for the adventurer escorting Lady Yae. The group departed to Ritou that was located west from the shrine. Sam suggests that they take the shortest route to get there in a reasonable time, however Miko told them about a different route that they will be taking. This route was longer but they arrived a little later compared to the shorter route. During the route they would run into small groups of Hilichurls. Sam and the other adventurer dealt with them easily. During the engagements Sam fought them bare handed on purpose.
"Minuano. You have a sword yet you don't use it. Why?" Miko asked.
"Just giving them a fighting chance." Sam replied with a smile.
"A fighting chance?" Miko is not sure about that answer.
"Minuano, you are an adventurer and should properly take out the monsters we encounter. Since we've been encountering the Hilichurls, you have not been doing your job properly." The other adventurer complained about Sams method.
"Well, we are here to escort Lady Yae to the destination. How we handle the obstacle is up to us. Your right about that. Let me asked you something. What adult would go full force with a child?" Sam replied. Miko gave a small laugh at Sam's reply.
"Why you!" The other adventurer was getting frustrated and walking towards Sam.
"Enough! We are almost at our destination." Miko passed between the two.
"Next time." The adventure points at Sam.
"Oh, you want to practice first?" Sam chuckled.
The adventurer wanted to teach Sam a lesson but decided not to go against Lady Yae's orders. The group reaches their destination in Ritou.
Ritou town
They reach the house of Miko's client. One of the government officials appears to be possessed and sees strange visions talking nonsense. Miko asked the person in question. The person was talking about strange looking people and other things. Sam found it boring until the man mentioned something about tall strange machines and part people part machine, he was not familiar with. Miko asked everyone but Sam and the other adventurer to leave the room.
"Now tell me more about these strange machines." Miko open the floor for him to speak."
"It's nothing I've ever seen before. They shoot rays of light and other objects."
"What else can you tell me?"
"There were people that looked like the machines too and they seemed to use Vision energy or something." There were many of them."
"Can you tell me where they come from?"
"Everywhere, no place was safe."
"Hmm. Have you reported this to anyone else?"
"I did but they said I was crazy and possessed. So they gave me some time off. The vision only got worse and won't go away."
"Hmm. I believe these visions could be a warning of some kind."
"So do you believe me?"
"We will look into this. Do not pass this onto anyone else. I will give you this charm to help you sleep better at night."
"Thank you Lady Yae."
"It's the least I can do to ease your worries. Leave it to us to investigate."
Miko gave the man a charm and chant that will help dampen the vision and help him rest at night.
Road back to the Narukami Shrine
Afterwards Miko and her party left and headed back to the Narukami Shrine. While heading back Miko and Sam would review what the man had passed to them.
"Minuano, what do you make of what the man said back there?"
"It's difficult to say. I personally have not seen anything like what he described around here."
"The things he mentioned were hard to follow since nothing like what he described is here in Inazuma or in any other place for that matter."
Miko turned to ask the other adventurer but he was nowhere in sight. Sam and Miko stop where they were. The area around them was quieter than usual. A large group of armed bandits surrounded them on all sides. Miko noticed they appeared well equipped for bandits and someone must have supplied them. She also noticed that one man was dressed differently than the others and did not look like he was from the local area.
"Looks like we got ourselves a big one, boys." Fatui Vanguard commented.
"This group looks well prepared for capturing people." Miko thought to herself.
"Gentlemen, I'm on official aside." Miko commanded
"So are we. You will come with us quietly and willingly. Refuse to cooperate, we will use force on both of you if necessary. Doesn't matter to me either way." Vanguard eplied.
"You have such terrible negotiation skills, so I imagine you forcefully took people with you." Miko replied.
"I have no idea what you're talking about. There are many of us and two of you. I already know how this will end." The Vanguard chuckled.
"Of course. Glad we can agree on something." Miko smiled.
"Relax Lady Yae, I'll handle this." Sam casually walked past Miko.
"Ara, someone is feeling a little motivated." Miko smiled.
End of Chapter 1
Just to clarify Sam does not have suit but can still perform as if he has it. Debated on change the color of his sword but left it as it is for now. Hope you enjoy the series.