章 2: Shinobi Shrine

I walk aimlessly through the bustling streets of Tokyo, my mind burdened with uncertainty. The weight of my strength loomed over me, a constant reminder of the peril that awaited any misstep I might take. Despite my formidable abilities, I lacked trustworthy allies, leaving me vulnerable to the dangers that lurked in the shadows.

And then there was the system, a perplexing entity that defied all logical explanation. It granted me incredible power in exchange for karma coins, but what good was strength if it meant being thrust into endless battles? I had no desire to become a pawn in military conflicts, sacrificing my social life for the sake of constant warfare.

Frustration welled up within me, and I couldn't help but voice my discontent. "Ahh... this is so exasperating," I sighed, baring my honest emotions to the world.

As I walked, I couldn't help but notice the many eyes fixed upon me. Women glanced in my direction, their curiosity evident, but what struck me most were the lingering gazes of numerous men. One teenage girl, her cheeks flushed, whispered admiringly, "So beautiful..." While a young man suddenly blurted out, "Damn... I wish I had a girlfriend."

His friend promptly dismissed the idea with a smack and a dose of reality. "That girl is way out of your league; stop daydreaming."

The rest of the crowd whispered amongst themselves, captivated by my presence. It was a strange kind of attention that I wasn't accustomed to. My lips twitched awkwardly at their misunderstandings, but deep down, I understood. This body exuded an unmistakably feminine aura, inviting such reactions.

Suddenly, a barrage of notifications from the system disrupted my train of thought.

[3.2 karma points obtained...]

[0.5 karma points obtained...]

[1.1 karma points obtained...]

"These notifications have been bothering me," I grumbled, finally acknowledging their persistent presence in my line of sight.

[Would you like to disable Karma Points Earned Notifications?]

I pondered for a moment before answering silently, "Yes, please."

[Confirmed.]

"Ah, much better," relieved that the system had granted my request. It was a testament to its capabilities.

For the next half hour, I wandered through the city, seeking solace in this foreign world that constantly surprised me. This brief respite served as a much-needed escape from the initial shock and stress of my arrival.

During my stroll, I couldn't resist the allure of the various food shops and snack stands that dotted the streets. Indulging in these treats became my coping mechanism, providing comfort and relief in times of heightened tension.

Eventually, my curiosity led me to a store specializing in equipment for magicians. Here, they showcased an array of Casting Assistant Devices (CADs), modern tools used by magicians to augment their spellcasting abilities. These devices had replaced ancient implements such as amulets, staffs, magic stones, hand seals, and thick books.

A shiver ran down my spine as I glanced at the exorbitant prices of the CADs on display. "FLT, huh? Noted," I murmured to myself, making a mental note for future reference.

Fortunately, my nonchalant reaction stemmed from the fact that I had the means to acquire a CAD through the system. It wasn't a display of narcissism but rather a practicality. Even without a CAD, my proficiency in Ninjutsu allowed me to execute spells swiftly with hand seals alone.

After a while, my feet brought me to the foot of a long staircase that led to what appeared to be a temple, indicated by the imposing Torii gate.

"Come to think of it, I haven't expressed my gratitude to the gods or whoever bestowed upon me this new life," I mused aloud, contemplating the significance of this spiritual pilgrimage. While I didn't adhere to Buddhism or any particular faith, I found myself with limited options and felt compelled to offer my prayers or thanks within this sacred space.

With a relaxed yet brisk pace, I ascended the seemingly endless flight of stairs. I couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt for those who wished to visit this place but were met with the arduous climb.

In just five minutes, I reached the summit, estimating the height to be approximately 300 meters from the base. The staircase's design, with only a single path, seemed to be a deliberate test of endurance for those who sought its sanctity.

From the top, I marveled at the breathtaking view of Tokyo. This city differed greatly from my previous life, boasting futuristic architecture, advanced urban infrastructure, and remarkably minimal pollution.

"Wow! This view is simply incredible," I whispered in awe, momentarily pausing to appreciate the scene before me, my arms laden with shopping bags from earlier.

"Excuse me..."

The shrine stood deserted, devoid of visitors. However, my heightened senses allowed me to perceive the presence of several individuals scattered throughout the temple grounds, some at a considerable distance. Among them, I sensed two powerful beings engaged in a sparring match, another formidable figure remaining silently nearby. Additionally, around twenty individuals, presumably apprentice students, emanated exhaustion, their tiredness palpable in the air.

Observing their movements, I deduced that one of them was a shinobi, but the other two appeared to be outsiders. Nonetheless, the shinobi displayed impressive skill in keeping pace with his companions. Curiosity was piqued, and I gazed intently in their direction.

"Anyway, I don't care. I'll offer my prayers and head home," I muttered dismissively, dismissing any further thoughts about their identities.

With that, I ventured deeper into the shrine grounds until I reached the donation box. I deposited a few coins, or rather, conducted an electronic transaction, as my offering. Bowing my head a few times, I performed the customary hand-clapping ritual.

"Did I do it right? Not being a believer, I hope I didn't make any mistakes," I smiled apologetically, concerned about my lack of familiarity with the customs.

Closing my eyes, I focused my thoughts. "Regardless of whether you are a god or not, I sincerely express my gratitude for this new opportunity and privilege. Please watch over my mother," I swiftly concluded my prayer, bowing respectfully before departing.

[God hears your gratitude.]

[God has bestowed a small gift upon you as a token of appreciation.]

[Elemental Sight has been received.]

[Sending...]

"I didn't expect such a qui---"

Before I could finish my sentence, searing pain engulfed my brain as the system transmitted something to my consciousness.

Thud!

I collapsed backward, my expression contorted. A resigned smile crossed my face as my eyes rolled back, accompanied by a few tears trickling down.

Struggling to regain my composure, I fought against the intense spasms racking my body. Wiping the drool from my mouth with a handkerchief, I attempted to stand.

"S-Sy-System... Next time, please refrain from doing that when I'm away from home," my voice trembled as I chastised the enigmatic system. The amalgamation of pain and a peculiar hint of pleasure left me disconcerted, and I had no desire to describe the bizarre expression it elicited. It was downright repulsive.

"Phew... Thankfully, I managed not to wet myself." I wasn't exaggerating; the pain was excruciating. I couldn't ascertain whether a person with a normal physique would have experienced the same, but the intensity made me question if I could survive its effects.

As I made my way out of the shrine building, wiping the sweat from my brow, I sensed a presence that had just arrived and hastily concealed itself.

Sighing inwardly, I berated myself for possessing abilities that rendered such efforts futile. "Hello.... there?" I turned around, casting a glance at the hidden figure.

"Incredible... Not many can detect my presence so swiftly," a bald man emerged from the shadows, sporting a scar that sliced across his forehead, eyes, and upper cheeks. Clad in a dark shrine robe and sandals, he exuded an air of casualness, as if we were peers, albeit with a touch of childishness.

Smiling with his eyes closed, he continued, "It's quite uncommon for visitors to grace this shrine, considering the challenging ascent of the long staircase. I'm sure many have complained about it." The man spoke again.

My eyebrows twitched.

I hoped he hadn't overheard my earlier mutterings. "Oh, I apologize. Is someone there? I thought it might be a stray cat... Yes, I was merely curious about the shrine and decided to stop by after finishing my shopping," I responded, attempting to maintain a polite demeanor, accompanied by a smile.

"We are honored to welcome esteemed practitioners like yourself to our humble temple. If you don't mind, how about a cup of tea first?" His shrewdness was apparent, as he seemed to be aware of my secret as a Ninjutsu expert. Nevertheless, I was reluctant to admit it.

"Oh, no, thank you. You don't have to trouble yourself with a stranger like me," I politely declined, inwardly yearning to flee from this place.

ARGH! I SHOULD RUN ASAP AS I FEEL THEM... DAMN!

Though I maintained a smile outwardly, internally, my mind descended into chaos.

I wanted to refuse.

Yet, I sensed that this ninja, this "Oji-san," wouldn't easily let me slip away.

"A cup of tea would be acceptable..." I relented, fearing that rudeness might lead to further complications.

"The honor is ours. Let us venture deeper into the shrine complex," the shinobi beamed, seemingly content with my decision.

"Yeah, sure." Resigned to my circumstances, I walked alongside him, both of us heading toward the location I had previously assumed to be a training ground.

We soon arrived at a spacious courtyard, filled with individuals donning white shrine robes, all of them sporting bald heads like the man beside me. It became apparent that they were disciples of this temple, prompting me to steal a fleeting glance at the man.

Amidst the crowd, my attention was drawn to two individuals around my age. One was a tired-looking teenager, sitting with a noticeable limp, while the other, a teenage girl, tended to him with unwavering dedication.

"They must be dating," I surmised, assessing the situation.

"Yo! Tatsuya, sorry for leaving you so abruptly earlier," Oji-san greeted the teenager beside me.

"Huft... Huft... No problem, Sensei," the teenager managed between heavy breaths, indicating his lack of resentment.

"Onii-sama, Sensei must be busy," the girl chimed in, defending him. Wait... Onii-sama?

"I must have misunderstood them. But no way..." Perhaps I had misheard earlier.

"Miyuki-kun... always considerate!" The older men seemed to revel in the beautiful girl's words, suggesting a longstanding closeness. I dismissed any concerns about the uncle being a pervert since he was, after all, a monk.

"A spacious courtyard. It seems like an ideal place for training," I casually remarked.

"Hahaha, young master, we are but humble shinobi living our lives," the older men humbly replied.

Oh~ As expected of a master, not deceived by my appearance.

I maintained a calm smile, suppressing my carefree nature and projecting the composed demeanor I had cultivated in my previous life.

"However, they appear surprised..." The stunning girl inadvertently revealed her astonishment, her mouth slightly agape. Yet, she gracefully concealed it behind her slender arms. Although his eyes betrayed a hint of surprise, he remained stoic.

"Tatsuya-kun, Miyuki-kun, would you mind joining this young master for some tea?" The uncle asked me, wearing his characteristic smile.

"That's fine. Besides, it wouldn't be appropriate to turn away your guests, fufu~" My acting skills were flawless as I tried to mask my frustration at having to indulge in tea with them.

"Hahaha! In that case, let my disciple assist you with your belongings." With those words, one of the students approached me respectfully, and I handed him the numerous shopping bags I had accumulated.

"Then, let's head inside... Follow me, both of you." With a friendly smile, the Shinobi Uncle guided us toward one of the buildings in the vicinity.

"Hai... Sensei," the two teenagers responded in unison.

(Tatsuya's POV)

Huft* Huft*

Sensei abruptly departed after our rigorous combat training session. Shinobi are known for their unpredictability.

"Perhaps he had some urgent matters to attend to." I didn't dwell on his personal affairs.

"As expected of Onii-sama, your taijutsu is exceptional. Sensei acknowledged your progress." I noticed Miyuki watching my training with delight, and her smile brought me joy.

"No... Sensei is still holding back his abilities. I have yet to reach his level in taijutsu and experience." I sincerely countered Miyuki's praise.

"Hmph, don't be so modest, Onii-sama. I don't believe anyone your age surpasses you in martial arts." Miyuki engaged in her usual debates, but I didn't mind.

"Oh, is that so? It's a possibility..."

"Hai~ Then thank you for your hard work, Onii-sama." Miyuki approached and handed me a bottle of water and a small towel.

"Thank you, Miyuki." I accepted them gratefully and immediately drank the water, feeling parched after the intense fight.

"Yo! Tatsuya... sorry for leaving you so suddenly earlier." Sensei reappeared, his presence eluding my perception.

"Huft... Huft... Don't worry about it, Sensei." I glanced at him but was surprised to realize that I hadn't sensed the presence of the girl next to him either.

Is she also a shinobi like Sensei? But she seems too young to possess such skills. I scrutinized the girl, narrowing my eyes in careful observation.

"Oni-sama, Sensei must be busy," Miyuki chimed in, but my attention remained fixated on the girl.

But I can't shake off my concern for her.

Apart from her exceptional abilities, which I suspect rival Sensei's.

What could her true identity be?

My sister, who is both beautiful and a formidable magician, is none other than the successor of the Yotsuba family, a fact that's well-known and understood. Yet, this girl...

For now, I must exercise caution, as Miyuki could be in potential danger.

"Miyuki-kun... always thoughtful!"

"This courtyard is quite spacious, perfect for training." At last, she spoke.

"Hahaha, young master... we are just humble shinobi leading a simple life."

Wait!? Is she a man?

Did I hear correctly? But that would be inconceivable for me...

Soon after, Sensei invited Miyuki and me to join him and the young master for tea