God Quest

Banri stood facing Cyrus, who regarded him with a cold, scrutinizing gaze.

Cyrus began, "What is your name?"

"My name is Banri," he replied, maintaining eye contact.

"Where are you from?"

"I come from a small village near the Celestial Tree. My people are worshipers of the Celestial Tree."

"How long have you been a guardian?"

"I've just awakened a week ago."

Banri recalled how he and the others had rehearsed their cover story at the suggestion of Ivor, the white deer who had guided them here.

The interview stretched on for about half an hour, with Cyrus relentlessly questioning Banri. Despite the intensity of the interrogation, Banri maintained his composure. Deception was second nature to him; it was ingrained in his blood. His family had long been involved in dubious enterprises that took advantage of innocent people.

Banri understood that his comfortable life was built on the suffering of others, yet he felt no remorse. From a young age, he had learned that only the strong endure while the weak are trampled. "Adaptation is the key to survival in this world," he mused to himself. With the power to adapt at his disposal, Banri was determined to become a god and enjoy everything the world had to offer without limitation.

While the others were being interrogated, Banri took the opportunity to explore, trying to familiarize himself with his surroundings and the people around him. He was acutely aware that he was in enemy territory.

"Looking for something?" a familiar voice called out as he opened a locked door.

Banri turned to see Mariah standing there, her expression a mix of curiosity and mischief. "Just having a look around," he replied, trying to sound casual.

"Well, you shouldn't. You're not a member of the guild yet," she warned, her tone playful yet firm.

"What's a receptionist doing here anyway?" 

"I came to check on you," she said, her eyes sparkling with intrigue.

"On me?" Banri said, feigning confusion.

"Let's go for a stroll," Mariah suggested, her gaze fixed intently on him.

As they walked through the town, the vibrant atmosphere enveloped them. Mariah stayed close to Banri, her hand intertwined with his, leaning against him as they navigated the bustling streets. She played the part of an excited girlfriend, her eyes wide with wonder as she pointed out various shops and stalls. Banri smiled at her enthusiasm, engaging in the conversation as they chatted and laughed together. He leaned in closer, matching her excitement with playful banter and lighthearted teasing.

They eventually made their way to a clothing shop, where Mariah's eyes lit up. "These dresses are beautiful!" she exclaimed, running her fingers over the fabric. "I'm going to try one on." She picked a bright red dress and dashed to the changing room, her excitement palpable.

Banri waited outside, glancing around at the shop's colorful displays. Suddenly, a loud thump echoed from the changing room. "Is everything okay?" he called out, concern creeping into his voice.

"Banri, can you help me?" Mariah's voice came through, laced with a slight moan. She then pushed her hand out, pulling Banri into the changing room. To his surprise, Mariah was half-naked, her curvy body on display. Banri blushed slightly as he gazed upon her.

"Can you zip me up?" Mariah asked, looking embarrassed yet playful.

The dressing room was cramped, the air thick with tension. As she turned around, Banri slowly zipped her up, his hands trembling while Mariah's cheeks flushed red as she arched her back slightly to help him. After he finished, she turned to face him.

"How do I look?"

"B-beautiful," Banri stuttered.

They locked eyes, leaning in for a kiss. As their lips parted, Mariah's innocent expression faded, replaced by an icy coldness.

"You seem to be enjoying this game we're playing," she said, her gaze piercing.

"You're done already? I was about to declare my undying love for you," Banri replied sarcastically.

"Who are you, Banri? Anyone else would have fallen for me instantly."

"I'm not so easily deceived. What was the point of all this?"

"Just having a bit of fun," Mariah said, licking her lips. "Get out and let me change!" she ordered.

They silently made their way back to the guild hall, no longer the loving couple out for a stroll. "You're quite a good actor," Mariah remarked, breaking the silence.

"I should've copped a feel" Banri thought, ignoring Mariah's words.

"You're quite dangerous, aren't you, Banri?" she added with a smile. "Don't worry; our guild has much use for dangerous men. Answer me this: why did you play along?"

"It was a good way to pass the time," Banri replied.

"Liar!" Mariah pouted. "You like me, don't you?"

Banri continued walking, paying her no mind.

As he walked away Mariah muttered under her breath "I like you too" .

When they arrived at the guild hall, the others had just finished their interrogations. "Where have you been?" Hikari asked as Banri approached with Mariah.

Soon after, Cyrus appeared. "We have decided to accept you as part of our guild. The four of you will work together on quests. You will be assigned a supervisor to help train you and assist with your missions. Keep in mind, they will also report your progress to the guild master."

"Who is the guild master?" Alina asked curiously.

"There she is," Cyrus said, pointing at Mariah, who stood beside Banri.

Mariah gave a polite smile and waved at them. "I expect you all to do your best. Despite your special abilities, this job is dangerous. You will be tasked with protecting celestial beasts from outsiders, known as mutants, as well as from the monsters we call demons, who crave the power of the celestial beasts for themselves."

"You will all be required to live here at the guild. I will show you to your rooms, so follow me," Cyrus said as he led them down the hall. "Hikari and Banri will share a room, while Katherine and Alina will share another."

Later that night, Banri lay in his room, reflecting on everything that had happened. A slight smile crept across his face as he thought about their encounter.

"Who Are You Mariah?"