A part of me wanted to help them out; they were just kids stuck in this hell like the rest of us. However, another part of me instinctually or rather reflexively felt as though I shouldn't get involved. I was typically averse to joining party or guild. The only recent exception being my temporary partnership with Xuelian.
I was a solo player by nature, only forced to party when the game required it, through quests, dungeons, or raids that I wanted to participate in for the rewards. I got along well enough with anyone I was partied with and I handled myself well enough no matter what my position or role was, or who was giving the orders. I was just satisfied with being able to fill a spot and roll for the rewards after. Though, because I could adapt myself to a party's dynamic, I would sometimes get invited to join a guild or group. However, each time I turned them down.
When it came to interacting with others, everything always felt aloof, cut off, like there was an invisible barrier between me and everyone else. And no matter who it was, it always felt like there was no depth, connection, or understanding. It all felt like empty platitudes, fake words and smiles, given for the sake of mere pleasantries. It always felt like I was another warm body filling a spot. When I offered a suggestion, compliments, or tried to bring others together, my attempts were met with criticisms, utter confusion as if I was speaking a different language, or passive aggressive rebuttals. So, after time and time again of failed attempts, I eventually just stopped trying.
Yet, despite my hang ups and my revulsion for parties, these kids were pleading earnestly for my help. Several thoughts ran through my head.
Could I even help them?
Should I even try to help them?
Were they really just trying to use me?
"...Alright, I'll help. We'll party up for a while," I replied.
"You will!?" they both said in unison, their faces beaming.
"Sure, though we should introduce ourselves first. My name is Tsubasa Emrys, I'm a level 15 [Arcanist]," I said with an awkward smile
I opened up my character profile to show it to the siblings.
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Mystical Awakening Online Vol. II (CPN)
Ficção CientíficaThe gaming format «R.E.M. D.I.V.E» Rapid Eye Movement, Digital interface with Virtual Environments, often called «Dream Gaming». The world's leading Game, Mystical Awakening Online or MAO. A limited, hidden special event. What could go wrong? The t...
