~21~

                                    

                                          
 "Welcome to the second-second screening process."

Ruby stepped aside and allowed the gaping candidates to have room to marvel at the sight before them.

A large room packed with many different types of game machines.

"This is not a normal house," Yusuke remarked.

"Maybe she likes video games," Kazuma murmured.

Why would someone like Genkai possess all these things? Then again, her temple is situated in the middle of nowhere, which sounds quite like a dull life for anyone.


Their thoughts were interrupted when Genkai lowered herself from the ceiling. She was on a small round platform with chains around her.

"I hope you all brought your quarters, these games will be the second screening."

A boy with monk clothing walked out of the crowd. "Please master, may I ask what playing video games has to do with learning great power?"  

"Absolutely nothing, really," Genkai said. "But these are not ordinary games that you'll be playing. Ruby dear, if you don't mind."  


Ruby nodded before motioning a hand at one of the games.  "The Janken game over there will test your spirit awareness."  

She then pointed at a machine with a punching pillow.

 "The punching game shows your spirit's strength." Then, she gestured at the karaoke game. "And the karaoke tests your energy's ability to adapt and grow stronger."  

Ruby stepped back to provide a clear view of the final game, which stood out due to its significantly larger size, occupying some space in the room comparable to a bowling alley.

"And last, here is the Arduino Game with the throwing knives, that can test your focus, testing your control over your Spiritual powers."

Miyuki eyed that game in particular and Yusuke saw it, which made him nudge her playfully. She gave him a look and he grinned playfully with a knowing look. Miyuki sent an elbow on the stomach, causing Yusuke to wince but still chortle.

"You can all try them each, but to get to the next step you have to pass three out of four games. If you cannot pass above two, it's game over for you. If you need help, I can gladly assist you with that. As for the other games, they are off limits, they're just for Master Genkai and Master Yara."

"Master Yara? Who is that?" Yusuke raised a brow.

"Probably some teacher friend of hers?"

"Alright, hand me that boxing glove!" One man walked up to the punching game. "Me and this game are old buddies."