Sequel/Epilogue to Gilded Hero
(Read Gilded Hero first, or this won't make any sense.)
Warnings: panic attacks, second person point of view
/December 7th, 2025
You approach Kikuoka about giving insider info on SAO because you can't let yourself (or Asuna) be beholden to anyone ever again.
You don't have money in this world, and no skills in a trade Kikuoka wants. You feel like a hooker, lifting your skirts to leave yourself bare and naked. Take me.
These dealings with Kikuoka have been as hidden from Asuna as you can make them. If she knew, she'd try to take some of the burden. You can't let her. You can't you can't you can't. (You're ashamed.)
When Kikuoka calls on you to help with a murder case, it's a relief.