39 The Crane’s Nest
Bourgys' Oasis.
The serene Lake Tolowa just outside the bustling city-state of Crescent Moon provided the backdrop for an intriguing encounter.
The quiet streets, devoid of any signs of life, witnessed the presence of a young man in his late teens, his purpose evident only to him as he wandered with determination.
This enigmatic figure possessed an otherworldly appearance, characterized by his striking white hair, pale complexion, and piercing blue eyes. His locks, interlaced with delicate strands of blue that occasionally emitted a faint glow, added an ethereal touch to his already captivating presence.
As Eren continued his quest, memories of the crash that had granted him a second chance at life resurfaced, the crash site located not too far from his current position. Realizing that dwelling on the past would not serve his present purpose, he focused his attention on the spectral screen, a mysterious device visible only to him. To his surprise, the geotag on the map he accessed through the spectral screen exhibited a glitch, causing it to jump erratically between various locations nearby.
Recalling the previous Eren's obsession with finding a certain individual named Bruce Lee, Eren acknowledged the significance he had unknowingly attributed to this enigmatic personage in his notes. It became apparent that the previous Eren's journey had revolved around unraveling the secrets behind the creation of Oshos, and his side projects had inadvertently exposed him to forbidden knowledge.
While Eren's recollection of the previous owner's memories remained fragmented, he deduced that the person he sought had not been forged using the enigmatic white flames that held power over life and death. Instead, this digital construct named Bruce Lee had been artificially created, using a compilation of memories and events skillfully engineered by the enigmatic Artificial Super Intelligence, Axela. Eren had managed to uncover this unique creation through a backdoor search method, delving into the hidden recesses of Oasis.
The digital construct housed within it a refined amalgamation of knowledge from various martial arts disciplines of bygone eras. Judo, Karate, Kung Fu, Muay Thai, Taekwondo, Wushu, and Mixed Martial Arts were meticulously synthesized, drawing upon the experiences of diverse martial experts from different schools and backgrounds. Axela had astutely crafted an AI-driven ego, imbuing the construct with a human-like persona based on the personality and experiences of Bruce Lee.
Eren marveled at the unknown genius responsible for these artificial constructs, admiring their ability to seamlessly combine martial arts techniques and weapon mastery from different eras. The creator's methods remained shrouded in mystery, leaving Eren intrigued and impressed by their ingenuity.
Throughout his investigations, Eren had discovered subtle traces of the creator's digital signature hidden within the backdoor scripts scattered throughout Bourgys' Oasis, providing tantalizing glimpses into the mind behind this remarkable creation.
Contemplating the authenticity of Bruce Lee and the mechanisms behind his ability to digest and process experiences, Eren recognized the inherent danger in interacting with this powerful digital construct.
With his mortal nature, Eren harbored no illusions, fully aware that even the slightest provocation could result in his swift defeat. The caution with which he regarded the construct only heightened his anticipation for the extraordinary conversation that awaited him.
Eren's decision to embark on this journey to Bourgys' Oasis stemmed from his desire for personal growth and respite from the weariness that plagued his physical body. As the glitch in the geotag stabilized, indicating his proximity to the elusive digital construct, Eren's chances of encountering Bruce Lee increased significantly.
***
Bourgys' Oasis.
On Cumberland Road, a small white house known as The Crane's Nest beckoned to Eren. Positioned about eight meters from the gates, the one-story house exuded an air of tranquility. The structures along Cumberland Road diverged from the norm, evoking a rustic charm reminiscent of the oriental countryside. It was evident that this particular area had been meticulously altered to blend with its surroundings near Lake Tolowa.
Eren approached The Crane's Nest, finding easy passage into its premises as he noticed a mini-restaurant operating in the courtyard. Though void of any patrons, the absence did not strike him as odd. In the vast world of Oasis, some Oshos gained fame and recognition, while others chose a quieter existence, indulging in a more mundane existence.
Unbeknownst to Eren, a sense of intrigue engulfed him as an Asian man in his late thirties materialized before him, his presence seemingly appearing out of nowhere. Although the man's stealth was unintentional, his seamless integration with the surroundings revealed a profound sense of calm and control. Eren's apprehension grew, sensing that this Osho possessed the ability to reduce him to tears, not through ill intentions but through sheer skill.
Addressing Eren with a disarming smile, the man's intense eyes held Eren's gaze captive. Though unthreatening, an instinctual unease crept through Eren's being, recognizing that this encounter had the potential to be a life-altering experience.
"Ah, a guest! It's a rare sight in my humble abode. How may I assist you, young man?" the Asian man inquired, his voice carrying a warm and welcoming tone, his accent slightly peculiar.
Startled by the unexpected presence, Eren hesitated for a moment, then mustered the courage to pose the question that burned within him. "Are you, sir, Bruce?" he asked, his voice betraying traces of trepidation.
Bruce Lee's gaze intensified as he scrutinized the white-haired youth before him. Observing the transformation in Eren's demeanor. Confirmed in his identity, Bruce Lee nodded affirmatively, acknowledging Eren's inquiry.
"Yes, I am Bruce Lee. Were you looking for me?" he responded, his eyes narrowing slightly, curiosity piqued by the encounter.
Eren breathed a sigh of relief, realizing that his journey had led him to the presence of the digital construct he sought. Though a flood of questions filled his mind, he chose a different approach, concealing the true purpose of his visit.
"I've heard that you create exceptional Dan Dan noodles. Is your shop open?" Eren inquired, his eyes scanning the tranquil courtyard adorned with round dining tables and canopies, creating an inviting ambiance.
Bruce Lee chuckled, appreciating the diversion from the weighty subject matter. With a slight bow, he welcomed Eren to take a seat, his own fascination with this unique encounter mirrored in his eyes.
Eren's fascination intensified, fully aware that engaging with this extraordinary personality held the promise of an unparalleled experience.
