King of Games C78 Kengan request

As news of KiShin's implementation of a real-world convertible currency and in-game economy spread, the gaming media exploded with coverage. Articles and videos analyzing the implications of this move flooded the internet.

GameSpot ran a headline: "SAO: Play to Earn - The Future of Gaming?"

IGN published an in-depth piece titled: "From Hobby to Career: How SAO is Redefining Professional Gaming"

The buzz wasn't limited to gaming circles. Financial publications began covering the story, with economists weighing in on the potential impact of a game-based economy that interfaced with real-world currencies.

In countries where the NG1 wasn't yet available, companies were already gearing up to capitalize on this new frontier. In South Korea, several major corporations announced plans to form professional SAO teams, despite not having access to the game yet. They were recruiting top gamers and strategists, preparing for the day when they could enter Aincrad.

European esports organizations began lobbying for expedited release of the NG1 in their countries, seeing the potential for a new competitive scene.

Even in the United States, where the NG1's release was still months away, venture capitalists were setting up funds specifically to invest in SAO-related startups and player development programs.

The game was no longer just a game. It had become a potential career path, an investment opportunity, and a new economic frontier.

***

Shinro found himself seated across from his father, Shiro Suzuki, in an opulent restaurant known for its exquisite cuisine and discretion. The elder Suzuki's eyes held a mix of pride and concern as he regarded his son.

"It's quite complicated, isn't it?" Shiro began. "I never expected your company to grow so rapidly. Now all eyes are on you."

Shinro smiled, cutting straight to the point. "What exactly is the reason you wanted to meet, father?"

Shiro leaned forward, his voice lowering. "We believe it's time for KiShin to go public, son. Opening your company to investors could significantly boost production of your virtual headsets, making them more widely available. The Suzuki Group is prepared to make a substantial investment."

Shinro paused, considering his father's words carefully before shaking his head. "I appreciate the offer, but KiShin is already doing its best to increase production. We don't need to go public for that."

"Don't be stubborn," Shiro insisted, a hint of frustration in his voice. "You're facing a massive opportunity here. If you don't share it, you risk missing the chance to truly expand your company's reach."

Shinro's expression hardened slightly. "If I open the company to public investment, I'll lose control over its direction. Too many people will try to meddle in my vision for KiShin's future."

Shiro appeared conflicted. "But..." he trailed off.

Standing up, he added, "If there's nothing important to discuss, I'll take my leave."

Shinro was about to leave when Shiro's words stopped him in his tracks.

"Wait," Shiro said, his voice dropping to a whisper. "I heard from your uncle that you know about the Kengan matches?"

Shinro nodded cautiously. "Why?"

Shiro stood up, leaning in close. "The higher-ups of the Kengan Association want your company to develop a game. One that focuses on a person's real abilities and strength, allowing them to fight in virtual tournaments."

Curiosity flickered in Shinro's eyes. "Why would I do that? What's in it for me?"

A knowing smile spread across Shiro's face. "The Kengan Association has deep connections in both politics and business. They could open doors for you that you didn't even know existed, son."

Shinro paused, considering the implications. The Kengan Association's influence could indeed be valuable, potentially providing KiShin with protection and opportunities that money couldn't buy.

"I see," Shinro said thoughtfully. "And they want this game for what purpose exactly?"

Shiro shrugged slightly. "Training, entertainment, who knows? But think of the potential, Shinro. Your technology, combined with their network... it could be a powerful alliance."

Shinro thought about his father's proposal.

To be honest, he was a bit surprise that his seemingly straightforward old man knew about the Kengan Association and its underground world. Then again, as one of Japan's wealthiest individuals, Shiro must have been privy to the darker sides of society for years.

"Well, let me think about it, father," Shinro said with a nod.

Shiro returned the nod, understanding that his son needed time to consider such a significant proposal.

As Shinro left the restaurant and settled into his car, his mind was already racing with the possibilities of developing virtual tournaments. The technology could revolutionize not just entertainment, but training and competition across various fields.

He recalled a meeting from a few days ago when military higher-ups had approached him about using KiShin's technology for training simulations. It wasn't just Japan interested in this application; the United States had shown particular enthusiasm.

The potential applications of his technology seemed to be expanding by the day. From gaming to business, and now possibly extending into the realms of underground fighting tournaments and military training, KiShin's influence was reaching into areas Shinro had never initially considered.

As Shinro's car wound through Tokyo's bustling streets, his mind drifted to recent encounters with Sony and Microsoft representatives. He couldn't help but chuckle at the memory of their desperate attempts to patent and acquire rights to the NG1 technology.

He recalled one particular meeting where a Sony exec, sweat beading on his forehead, had practically pleaded, "Suzuki-san, we're prepared to offer an unprecedented deal. Name your price."

Similarly, a Microsoft representative had cornered him after a conference, speaking in hushed, urgent tones. "Mr. Suzuki, surely we can come to an arrangement. We have the resources to take your technology global overnight."

Their sudden interest was a far cry from their dismissive attitude just months ago. Now, they were scrambling to catch up, hurriedly developing their own virtual consoles and games.

Shinro shook his head, a wry smile playing on his lips. The tech giants that had once looked down on KiShin were now chasing its coattails. It was a satisfying turn of events, but Shinro knew better than to underestimate their resources and determination.

***

In a spacious apartment in Tokyo's bustling Shinjuku district, three men huddled around a state-of-the-art gaming setup. To their neighbors, they were just another group of foreigners enjoying Japan's technological marvels. In reality, Enoch, West, and Dick were special agents from the United States, their mission far from ordinary.

They had come to Japan with a clear objective: to investigate and report on Sword Art Online and the NG1 technology. However, their carefully planned mission had taken an unexpected turn.

"Guys, we should probably compile that report soon," Enoch muttered, his fingers hovering over the NG1 headset.

West, sprawled on the couch, chuckled. "Yeah, right after this dungeon run. We need to check out the new boss, you know, for... intel."

Dick, the most serious of the trio, sighed. "We're getting off track. This was supposed to be a reconnaissance mission, not a gaming marathon."

Yet, even as he spoke, Dick's eyes darted longingly to his own NG1 headset. The allure of Aincrad was undeniable.

For these hardened agents, SAO had awakened a dormant love for fantasy and adventure. The immersive world had transported them back to their childhood dreams of being heroes in a magical realm. Each login felt like stepping into a living, breathing Dungeons & Dragons campaign.

"Remember that sunset over the floating islands?" West reminisced. "How do we even begin to describe that in a report?"

Enoch nodded. "Or the feeling of actually wielding a sword, the weight, the balance... it's unlike anything we've experienced."

As they reflected on their adventures, the agents realized they were facing an unexpected challenge. How could they convey the sheer wonder and potential of this technology to their superiors without sounding like overexcited gamers?