As soon as he made his decision, a golden glow surrounded Shoi-Ming, transporting him to his chosen sect. He feels as if he's being whisked away like a roller-coaster, only worse.
When he reappears, he finds himself in the heart of a lush garden, surrounded by majestic buildings adorned with intricate designs.
He takes a few steps forward from the journey, feeling slightly dizzy. Finally, he pulls himself together, puts on a dignified air and bows respectfully to the NPC in front of him, who seems visibly impressed by his sudden arrival.
"I'm Kuan, right-hand man to the leader of the Three Thousand Fans sect. Shoi-Ming, we've heard of your exploits and are honored to welcome you here."
There's computer latency when a quick trip has just been made? Like the characters haven't had time to load yet? There's a buffering symbol above the NPC's head, his title barely displayed.
[ Kuan, right-hand man to the leader of the 3000 Fans sect. ]
Was he already expected? Did they know he was coming? Nah, otherwise he'd be a bit more panicked than that, wouldn't he? And what about exploits? Running away from the enemy? To be captured and released a few minutes later? Is he taking the piss behind that falsely amiable air?
He squints for a moment before clearing his throat.
"Thank you, but do you know why I've come here? I've been sent by Zi Xuan zhangmen to investigate the origin of the demonic energy and stop the source from flowing in and corrupting everything. Other comrades of mine are, at this very moment, also working together to solve this problem, so I hope we can cooperate effectively - as time is running out."
He bows his head again politely and friendly. Come on, he's got no time to lose! What's with this GM screwing up like this?! How hard can it be to display NPCs correctly? You're the one who wanted to put a timer on it, so now you have to take responsibility.
Kuan suddenly looks panic-stricken. His features tighten, betraying a growing anxiety. Finally, he wakes up.
"Oh no, it's much worse than we thought! Our altar has also been corrupted, and the sect leader is still there with other members, trying to contain the situation. We need your help urgently. Corruption is spreading faster than we expected, and if we don't stop it, it could destroy our entire sect!"
The NPC then seems genuinely distraught, realizing the gravity of the situation.
He starts running towards the altar, taking Shoi-Ming in his wake. They cross the gardens, but as they approach their destination, the atmosphere changes dramatically. Waves of demonic energy emanate from the altar, distorting the air and creating an oppressive aura.
Its intricate patterns and once-beautiful ornamentation are now corrupted, shrouded in a dark, malevolent mist. Black cracks running through the structure bear witness to the destructive influence of this demonic energy.
Anyone seeing this nightmarish scene would feel an icy chill run down their spine. It's a far cry from the altar of the Ethereal Clouds sect. Here, evil seems to have taken root and is spreading rapidly, threatening to overwhelm everything.
As they approach, the darkness seems to thicken around them, as if trying to engulf them. But Kuan doesn't slow down, determined to reach the altar and help contain the threat.
[ Join the fight? ]
Does he have the choice not to?
For God's sake, he can't help, apart from giving a thumbs-up and a pat on the shoulder with a 'well, cheer up'.
The problem is, if things get out of hand and he hasn't at least tried, he'll be blamed for not helping. They already dragged him into this without waiting for his answer. What's he supposed to do now? Refuse? He'll get a criticism, damaging his reputation and that of his leader and the whole sect.
Biting his lower lip, he hesitates. Of course he wants to live, and the best choice would be to refuse, but....that's not how he'll get information.
He's got one in force, is that tempting? Definitely not, that "one" won't make much difference.
Is this how he dies? Well, if he dies this way, at least he'll have kept the honor of his sect, since he won't have run away from the demonic forces.
If he tries, he'll make himself look good, after all he's not part of this sect, he's under no obligation. Hence the simple proposal.
No time to procrastinate - he accepts and moves forward with determination. He's useless, but he'll play the role of moral support.
"Let's go."
As the situation becomes increasingly critical, Shoi-Ming now finds himself at the heart of the action, alongside Kuan. A figure stands out among the others. He struggles to ward off evil spirits.
[ Long Feng, leader of the 3000 Fans sect. Title "Guardian of the sacred dragons". ]
He doesn't even have time to inquire about his condition before the screen sends a new salvo of information, or rather a new choice for him.
[ Please select the procedure to follow:
Fighting demonic manifestations directly: Despite his weak strength, Shoi-Ming can choose to join the fight against demonic manifestations. Using his agility and intelligence, he can try to identify these creatures' weaknesses and help repel them by creating openings.
Assisting sect members in the purification ritual: Shoi-Ming may decide to support sect members attempting to purify the corrupted altar. He can carry supplies, help keep the ritual going and provide emotional support to those in need.
Search for clues to the origin of the corruption: Knowing that every corrupted element holds clues to the origin of the corruption, Shoi-Ming may choose to investigate the area around the altar for clues. He can search the area, interview witnesses and try to uncover artifacts or signs that might help solve the mystery, but will not take an active part in the battle.
Protecting sect members during the purification ritual: Faced with the constant threat of demonic manifestations, Shoi-Ming may choose to position himself as the protector of sect members while they perform the purification ritual. He can repel attacks from creatures and ensure the safety of those engaged in the ritual. ]
Obviously the sect leader was in trouble, but why wasn't Kuan with him? He should have been with him like he'd been there for his, right?
Dude, seriously, what's your excuse? You don't have his stats, you should be fighting too!
Realizing the options before him, the wise choice would be to stay out of it and investigate, but he can't do that, the situation is critical, he's never been the kind of person to stand back.
Protecting might be difficult, given his weak strength.
Emotional support or combat?
He's seen it, Shoi-Ming can be capable of it, he could know enemies' weaknesses by observing them. He may not have an intelligence stat, but a quick glance around his quarters is enough to know he's no fool.
But if he draws too much attention to himself, it could backfire - he'll be given missions that are too dangerous and will end up killing the impostor.
"Damn it!"