Author's Note:
Hey all,
Sorry this is so late, but the last few weeks have been busy. Hopefully the rest of the Part releases on time.
Enjoy.
Interlude
Tuesday, Dec 20th, 2022
"I have your new weapon for you."
"Thank you Grimlock, I'm sure it will serve me well." Smiling easily at her husband from the real world, Griselda pulled the sword from its sheath. Examining the blade, it was easy to tell that it was quite a bit weaker than the one she was using. Her Anneal Blade +4 served her well in the battles she fought. Unable to find a worthy companion yet, she worked solo to clear quests.
Grimlock no longer came into the field. Instead he was content to sit in the Town of Beginnings, hammering away at the ore she brought back. Hiding her sigh, Griselda bowed deeply to her husband and thanked him for his work. Although the blade was bad, Griselda would keep it on her. It gave her hope that maybe he wasn't so bad, that they could work things out.
Sheathing the blade and depositing it in her inventory, Griselda sketched a short bow to her husband. "I'm off to conquer the first floors of the labyrinth today! See you tonight!" Exiting with a skip in her step, Griselda paid no attention to her husband's face.
Watching the door slowly close behind her, Grimlock was unable to rescue his face from the near permanent scowl that was etched on it. Hands shaking from rage, Grimlock wondered if his wife thought he was an idiot. Throwing his sword in her inventory like a piece of garbage, the woman had stomped off to go kill monsters… with her old sword.
She didn't even ask permission before darting out the door. Her insubordination would be cause for a beating in the real world, but here… Not only would the act of hitting her be pointless, it was unlikely she would sit around and take it.
Growling angrily at the loss of his obedient wife, Grimlock threw a bronze ingot into the forge. Impatiently mashing his teeth as it heated up, he took the glowing ingot and swung his hammer as hard as he could. This was the real reason he took up blacksmithing. Not to provide his wife with good gear. He did it as an outlet. Something he could hit and get productive results.
Imagining this new Griselda as the ingot, Grimlock unleashed his rage into making the weapon. Helpless to stop the game from further corrupting his wife and leading her away from the perfection she once was.
Chapter 4
"One of my group didn't say anything because they had just sold it off, but after buying it back… well here you are."
Looking at Hafner curiously, who now led his own party, Naruto accepted the trade request. Materialising the item, murmuring came over the party leaders gathered. A Burnished Iron Chakram. The weapon glistened softly in the low illumination of the bar.
"A drop from the Ringhurlers…" Naruto muttered in surprise. "Argo told me it was possible, but I didn't want to count on it." Pulling up its info, Naruto grunted in surprise. There were two skills required to properly wield the weapon: Knife Throwing, and Martial Arts.
"Unfortunately, there aren't many people with Martial Arts," Naruto replied testily. "It will be hard to find someone willing to use it."
"Don't you have it?" Orlando asked.
Nodding sheepishly, Naruto explained his logic. "I do, but I don't want to spend the whole fight looking at Asterios' head waiting for its eyes to glow. We'd also have to change the strategies to make it work. Overall, it doesn't really feel worth it. Ideally we'd get someone who specialises in throwing weapons already to use it."
"Do you have anyone in mind?" Agil asked surprised.
"I do. But neither would be ready for this fight."
"Who?" Kibaou asked.
"Argo is one," Naruto admitted, "and the other is Nezha."
"But he can't fight," Orlando gasped. "His depth perception is out."
"Exactly." Naruto answered. "It's only his depth perception. He can see fine."
Gaping, Orlando leapt out of his chair. "Permission to go get Nezha and propose this?"
Naruto had barely nodded before Orlando was out the door. Smiling faintly, the group chuckled as they waited for him to return.
"As nice as this is…" Kibaou broke in. "Like Naruto mentioned, it doesn't help us until after this boss fight."
"We could delay the fight…" Agil spoke slowly. "I know that I for one want to return to my wife as soon as possible but delaying for two days to ensure an easier fight doesn't sound like a bad idea."
Chewing over his thoughts, Naruto listened as the others debated. Raising his hand, Naruto called for silence. "Asterios only spawns when Baran reaches its last health bar, correct? So, what if tomorrow we simply kill Nato and retreat. That would simplify the fight for when we have the chakram."
Silently turning it over in their heads, Naruto stared impassively at the three party leaders. With Orlando gone, and Klein refusing to come, saying his party is under Naruto's control, it was a small group.
Hafner and Agil seemed to like Naruto's plan as it made the most of the day, let them declare a small victory and made the final attempt easier. Kibaou, however, wanted to fight the last fight tomorrow.
"When Orlando gets back, we will hear from Nezha and him. If Nezha says no to wielding the weapon, then we fight Asterios tomorrow. If he says yes, then Orlando will vote, if there's a tie, I'll break it."
Nodding their acceptance to the decision. All three sat back satisfied with the outcome.
Sitting down with a thump, Nezha carried a travelling mat and looked terrified. Swallowing nervously, he sat before some of the strongest and most influential players in all of Sword Art Online. "W-What can I do for you?"
"Well, Nezha." Naruto began slowly. "You've told me before that you originally wanted to be a fighter but couldn't cut it with your FNC. I'm offering you a chance to change that."
Leaping out of his chair, Nezha looked like an excited puppy. "I'd love to be able to fight! Being a swordsman is my dream!"
Chuckling at his boundless excitement, Naruto handed over the Chakram. "This is a weapon that requires the Martial Arts skill and the Throwing Knife skill to use. You will have to go acquire the Martial Arts skill at the location specified on this map." Handing Nezha the prepared map with directions to the Martial Arts teacher, Naruto spoke once more.
"With this, depth perception won't matter, however, you will have to be extremely careful in fights, you'll be vulnerable to any enemy that gets close to you."
Bowing deeply, Nezha blinked tears out of his eyes. "The chance to be useful in a fight is worth dying."
"Then go and complete the Martial Arts quest as quickly as possible. There's an open slot in the Legend Braves for you."
The entire table chuckled slightly as Nezha tripped in his excitement leaving the bar.
Explaining the situation quickly to Orlando, the boy took on a complicated face. Naruto understood his dilemma. On one hand, they would have to delay for two days to accommodate for something what would only possibly help in the boss fight. Alternatively, waiting would reassemble the party that was splintered when Nezha admitted he was a liability to the party.
"Well?" Kibaou asked impatiently, still rough at the whole leadership gig.
"I think killing Nato tomorrow is a good idea. However, if the fight is going well, trying to take out Baran isn't a bad idea."
Nodding respectively to Orlando, Naruto leaned back and evaluated what he'd heard. "The only problem with what you said, is that spawning Asterios means either killing him, or sacrificing people to retreat most likely."
"True," Hafner murmured.
"That means, I'll make the call when Baran hits half. Is everyone comfortable with that?" Seeing the general nods of agreement, Naruto relaxed. "Now, there's one final thing I want to talk about with everyone."
Seeing general looks of confusion, Naruto steeled himself for what was sure to be an arduous series of meaningless conversations. "On the third floor, guilds can be formed. To symbolise our solidarity, I want to make one guild, and then appoint you guys to upper stations. This would have the benefit of keeping the frontline together, while also letting you hold some power over your party members."
"I don't know, man," Agil replied hastily. "Look, me and my group just kind of together cause we friends. A guild is a pretty big step."
"I understand that," Naruto politely replied, "however, it's time for you to think about what you can do to serve this world best. If you believe that going solo is best, then do that."
Looking uncomfortable, Agil had no reply.
"Actually, that goes for all of you. As frontliners we have a duty to the rest of the populace. We need to do what will help us to efficiently and safely, beat this game. Please think on what I've said. I don't expect an answer right now."
"I can practically hear Diavel saying that," Kibaou chuckled. "I'll ask my party, but I'm pretty sure we'll all agree. A unified force clearing the game is the best way forward. Otherwise we will fight among ourselves."
"Thank you for that Kibaou." Naruto nodded his thanks. "Goodbye."
Stepping out of the bar, Naruto yawned as he walked to his next destination. It was still only eleven in the morning and he had agreed to meet with Silica in Urbus at noon in one of the parks. Shaking his head at the strange use of his day, Naruto technically couldn't complain.
Entering the park just after eleven thirty, Naruto couldn't help but feel like he was going on a date. Although the town was overall dusty, this hidden park possessed a peaceful tranquility, small flowers and green grass adorning its twisted paths despite winter starting tomorrow.
Arriving at the specified coordinates, Naruto sat on a nearby bench and opened his menu. By using the draft function, Naruto was able to begin typing up the outlines of the raid tomorrow. Dividing people up into parties, writing down equipment, preferred role…
"Ah! Black Swordsman-sama!"
Voice shocking Naruto out of his typing, he let out a pathetic yelp. Looking up embarrassed, Naruto saw a short girl with brown pigtails bouncing with excitement.
"Hi Silica," Naruto greeted the girl with a smile. "Is that… Is that my nickname?"
Nodding happily Silica regaled him of how cool he looked standing on stage and how his black eyes had pierced her.
Stunned into silence, Naruto could only wave at the space beside him, an invitation to sit.
Flushing bright red, Silica fell silent at the offer. Sitting down demurely, Silica sat as far as possible from Naruto.
Smiling at her nervousness, Naruto's shock receded. The timid girl's actions reminded him of Sugu. Deciding to poke fun at the girl, Naruto smiled broadly. "Won't you sit closer to me?"
"W-What!?" Silica screeched shooting to her feet. "Oh, no I couldn't, I mean you belong to Sachi, and I'm only level seven, I'm not worthy of being your mistress. Not that I would, I mean…"
Naruto laughed at the mortified girl. Silica appeared to have frozen from embarrassment.
"D-did I say that out loud."
The quiet voice was barely audible. A prayer to some god to free Silica from the mistakes she'd made.
"I can forget it if you so desire," Naruto informed the poor girl. Extending salvation in replace of an absent deity.
"Yes please," Sachi breathed, slowly sitting back down.
"So, what did you want to talk to me about?" Naruto asked curiously.
Hands still shaking, Silica tried her best to answer. "I-I just wanted to meet you…"
Finding it hilarious, some hidden knot in Naruto's chest eased. While she was most definitely not his cousin, there were enough similarities that Naruto was glad he'd met Silica.
Unconsciously, Naruto reached out and patted Silica's head, the way he'd do to his cousin when Sugu acted like this.
"Eep!" Silica screamed, sitting up, back straight as a board. However, she made no attempt to stop the hand.
Realising this wasn't a girl he should have done that to, Naruto's hand froze. "Oh uh… my apologies."
"No, it was okay… I actually really enjoyed it! I mean uh…" Covering her face in embarrassment once again, Silica prayed again, this time that something would smite her, so she didn't have to live with these memories.
"Well I'm glad I didn't offend you," Naruto smiled gently, hoping to ease the poor girl. "You just remind me a lot of my cousin."
Giggling gently, Silica seemed to calm down at this comment. "I'm glad I got to meet you. You aren't as scary as I thought you may be."
"You thought I was scary?" Naruto asked, taken aback.
Nodding abashed, Silica explained. "During your speech, you just gave off this aura of toughness. Like you were a reliable leader."
"T-thanks… but how is that scary?"
"Well I'm wasting your time," Silica told him embarrassed. "And you seemed very stern and focused on clearing the game. Which is a good thing!" Silica ensured him.
Laughing at the explanation, Naruto felt budding affection towards this strange girl. The straightforward purpose and drive were refreshing. "Do you want to walk around the park?" Naruto asked her.
Nodding so fast her pigtails flew around, Naruto couldn't help but feel happy. He had initially thought that this meeting would be a waste of time as Silica had said, but Naruto was glad he'd done it.
"So, how are you finding fighting? Any problems?" Naruto asked curiously.
"Oh, very good!" Silica informed him cheerfully. "Ever since Asuna and Sachi helped, I've gotten a lot better."
"That's great," Naruto replied. "Where are your party mates?"
"I may have uh…"
"You ditched them to meet me?" Naruto asked incredulous.
Face scarlet, Silica looked at her feet. "I told them I was going shopping,"
Gaping at the girl, Naruto broke down into a fit a laughter. "You didn't bring them so that you'd get all my attention. That's pretty bold."
"I was going to bring you back as a surprise." Silica pouted.
"Ah, so you've successfully collected me now?" Naruto teased.
"I didn't mean it that way!" Silica plead, tears forming. "I just wanted our first meeting to be special."
As she looked down pouting, Naruto smiled evilly. Leaning in, Naruto whispered next to her ear. "Has it been special enough yet? Or is there something else we need to do?"
Whole body shaking, Silica's face was white as a sheet. "I can't do that to Sachi, can I? She set this up after all."
Continuing to mouth incomplete ideas, Naruto waved his hand in front of her face. "No response. Seems like I broke her for good this time." Sighing, Naruto walked the unfocused girl to a bench.
Opening his menu once again, Naruto worked on the raid guide overview while Silica slowly put herself back together.
It was around noon, the scheduled time of their meeting when Silica finally spoke again. "You were teasing, weren't you?"
"Ah, yeah I was." Naruto confirmed. "Sorry, Argo's habits have rubbed off on me. Speaking of Argo, you should probably avoid her."
"But her guidebooks are so good!" Silica whined.
"Yeah, I just don't think you'll survive her teasing." Naruto warned.
"No, it's alright," Silica denied. "I was just caught off guard, sorry about that."
Chuckling, Naruto closed his menu. "Well Silica. You have an hour booked, what do you want to do?"
"Tell me how you killed the first-floor boss!" Silica yelped bouncing up and down. "The stories all say you practically soloed it!"
"Illfang," Naruto trailed off, lost in memory. "The first-floor boss was interesting. His first form was all about brute force while his second was about speed. It made for an interesting contrast and the failure of the first raid."
"What did happen on the failed raid?" Silica asked curiously.
Smiling faintly, Naruto attempted to compress it into a couple of sentences. "The leader of the first raid was caught off guard by an unknown weapon and died. As a result, I called for a retreat ending in three more people dying."
Looking into the distance, the names of the people Naruto had sentenced to death played once more through his mind. Even now he didn't know if retreating was the right move.
"I think you did what you had to!" Silica declared grabbing Naruto's hand. "Their deaths aren't on you!"
Smiling, Naruto stared into Silica's resolute gaze. "Thank you. When you catch up, there'll be a spot in my party for you if you want it."
Mouth hanging half open in a daze, Silica launched herself at Naruto. "Thank you so much! That's been my goal since your speech! However, I can be of service, just let me know!"
Naruto sat there awkwardly, unsure if he should hug her back or peel her off of him. After a couple more seconds, Silica grasped what she'd done. Leaping back, Silica profusely apologized for her actions.
"Don't worry about it," Naruto waved it off. "Why don't we go meet your party?"
"Yes, that sounds perfect," Silica replied with a small voice. Standing up unsteadily, Silica walked in the wrong direction to get to the teleport gate.
"Wrong way silly," Naruto informed her. Walking beside her, Naruto extended his arm, "shall we?"
Nodding quickly, Silica's energy returned as fast as it had left. Placing her hand delicately on the curve of his arm, Naruto escorted Silica back to the teleport gate.
Opening the inn room door, Silica shouted excitedly, "Hey guys! Guess who I brought…" Trailing off, Silica's face blanched as she took in her mistake. Surprising two girls who thought they were in an impenetrable room was not the best decision.
Walking through the door, Naruto stopped abruptly at the awkward circumstances. One of the girls was lounging around in her underwear while the other had a tanktop and short shorts on. "Ah, forgive me for intruding," Naruto apologized quickly. Turning around, Naruto exited the room.
Entering again a minute later, Naruto was unsure what to say to the scarlet girls who had had their privacy invaded.
"So, you are Lisbeth and Liten, right?" Naruto asked to break the ice.
"I'm Liten," the girl who'd been wearing the clothes spoke. "You're the Black Swordsman."
"Actually, the name is Naruto, but close enough."
"Cocky bastard," Lisbeth spoke under her breath, clearly blaming Naruto for the infraction.
"Liz!" Silica complained. "Don't talk to him that way!"
"Look at him," Liz shot back. "He thinks he can walk in on us whenever and expect us to bow down to him just because he made a speech and fought a boss."
Tilting his head back, Naruto howled with laughter. "Thank you for that," Naruto spoke wiping tears out of his eyes. "I think I needed to hear that."
"Uh, you did?" Liz asked confused.
"Yeah, I think my head has gotten a little big lately." Naruto told her with a gleaming smile.
Blushing Liz looked away. "Don't think you're forgiven." Grumbling lightly, Liz's words held no heat.
"I'm sure I'm not. On a different note, I've heard you're a blacksmith Liz, how is that going."
"It's Lisbeth to you mister! And, well… alright."
As the girl turned downtrodden, Naruto tilted his head curiously.
Coughing Liten answered the question. "In order to get enough experience, Liz needs way more materials. For that to happen, Liz either needs people to come to her for repairs and the like or needs to find a bunch of ore to make weapons with. A lot of the guys don't trust a woman to do the job and with the Copper Caverns unavailable…"
"Maybe we can help each other…" Naruto inquired curiously. "I'll bring you to the Copper Caverns, so you can get your ore, but you have to obey my instructions to the word while we're in there."
"Seriously!' Shooting up, Lisbeth had hope on her face.
"But Sachi said to never go in there." Silica refuted. "And Argo's guidebook says only death lurks inside."
"That's because I scouted it out for her," Naruto informed them. "I have all the map data for it and experience fighting the enemies."
Shocked yet again, the three girls only gaped at him.
"So? What do you say, up for an adventure?"
"You bet!" the three girls replied, completely in sync with each other.
Blocking the snake, Naruto slaughtered it without really trying. "Right, Martial arts practice." Scolding himself, Naruto forgot to use his new Martial arts skills to deal with the enemies.
Turning to the girls, they were all much less confident then they had been earlier. Like Arthur previously, none of them had seen the approaching snake. "We're fine. Silica, light that torch I gave you and hold it in your left hand."
Nodding seriously, the girl followed the instructions intently. Lighting the torch, its flickering glow helped illuminate the interior of the dark cavern. Scanning it around, Silica located two veins of copper for Liten to mine. Pulling out her pickaxe, Liten began mining while the rest of the party stood guard around her.
Search skill proccing, Naruto noticed another snake coming. "Hey Liz, a snake is coming from that passage."
"It's Lisbeth," the girl grumbled, squinting down the passage for the approaching enemy. Finding it at last, Liz tried to copy Naruto by hitting it out of the air with her weapon. With a slight impact, the mace was deflected, and the snake continued on a different path. Colliding with her arm, Naruto got his first surprise of the afternoon.
Liz was knocked to her knees by the collision but that was all. Even her health stayed fairly high.
"Armour…" Breathing the word Naruto could hardly believe the answer was staring him in the face all this time. As long as the snake collided with armour that was too thick for it to penetrate, no paralysis could occur.
Getting back up, Liz smashed the snaked head in with her mace. Shattering into blue polygons, the girls cheered. "I guess these enemies are no big deal!"
"Congratulations!" Naruto told her. "You've discovered a way to trivialise this dungeon."
"What do you mean?" Liten asked having finished mining the veins.
"Liz's armour stopped the paralysis. That means if someone wears full armour, they can't get paralysed which makes this dungeon quite easy."
"And the poison butterflies?" Silica asked curiously.
"I have a strategy for them," Naruto told them with an evil chuckle.
Continuing, it wasn't long before they met one of the aforementioned butterflies. Scrapping the ground with his hand, Naruto found a small pebble. Picking it up, Naruto tossed it around in his left hand. Thanks to his dad and baseball, Naruto could throw with both hands.
Entering the butterfly's range quickly, Naruto cancelled its poison skill with Rage spike. When it went to against the ceiling, Naruto smirked at it. Cocking back his elbow. Naruto launched the pebble into the butterfly's soft wing.
With a pathetic shriek, the butterfly lost altitude. It seemed that the damage caused by one pebble without the Throwing Knives skill could only do so much damage.
Shrugging, Naruto mercilessly cut off one wing grounding the creature. "Would you like to do the honors?" Stepping aside, Naruto let Silica finish the downed mob.
High fiving the excited girl, Naruto couldn't help but smile at Silica's contagious good mood. Even in the depths of a Cavern of death, possibly the hardest area on the first floor, the girl was happy. Having her around would definitely be good for his mental health Naruto thought idly.
Continuing unabated for over an hour, Liten informed them she'd run out of inventory space. "I can carry some as well," Naruto offered.
"Yes please!" Liz chirped. As time went on, Liz seemed to have forgotten Naruto had seen her in her underwear and was in a sort of high thinking about all the ore they were collecting.
"We can't make him do that!" Silica rebuked harshly. "He is taking precious time away from clearing this game to help us out. How dare you force him to become a pack mule!"
"Ah, right," Liz admitted abashed. Taking quick glances at Naruto, it was like she was seeing him for the first time again.
"Are you two going to fight over him?" Liten teased.
"He's already with Sachi, Lit," Silica answered, unable to keep the disappointment out of her voice.
"Don't you know Silica," Liz replied in a teasing voice, "that just because there's a goalie doesn't mean you can't score!"
Coughing abruptly at her comment, Naruto was forced to do a double take of the girl. He had originally taken her to be surly and introverted but now…
"I wouldn't do that to Sachi!" Silica fired back unaffected. It really did seem like she was used to her teasing. "She's had enough problems with her relationship."
"Oh really? Whatcha do tough guy, cheat on her?" Liz teased.
"If it was with you, I wouldn't mind," Naruto answered, matching her tone.
"Whoa, no. Not cool." Liz denied, flushing bright.
"Yeah! It should be me if anyone," Silica pouted.
Coughing once again, Naruto changed the subject. "I'd forgotten that Sachi talked to you about that. Also, something about you living at a daycare?"
Stomping her foot, Silica raged. "I didn't want to live there, but Sasha was persuasive."
"Ah yes," Liten chuckled. "the teacher who scooped up all the children."
"Hey, you guys are making her sound evil," Naruto laughed. "She's just trying to help the scared children who can't return to their parents." Comprehending what he'd said too late, a silence descended over the group.
"I miss them," Siilica announced sadly. "But that's why we have to fight. So that we can see them again!"
Having said that, Silica marched bravely at the head of the party.
"How brave…" Liz whispered, the words barely reaching Naruto's ears.
"It's our job to keep her safe," Naruto told Liz with a smile.
Nodding her determination, Liz straightened her weapons and continued walking down the passageway.
Admiring the bravery of the group, Naruto followed them with a light-hearted chuckle on their quest for a bit more ore before turning back.
Standing up in a flurry, Joe watched stunned as the three figures returned through the front gate. Having been sitting on a bench watching the entrance, Joe was getting nervous. No message had come through about confirmed kills. Nevertheless, for all three to have survived. Did something go wrong? But at the same time, the usually upbeat trio looked defeated. Obviously hunting all day was bound to be mentally draining. To not notice him though? No, something was wrong.
"H-hey, how was uh grinding?"
Looking up shocked, the three girls apparently hadn't noticed Joe's approach.
"Oh. It was uh, fine." Mumbling a response, Argo's words were clearly a dismissal. Nodding sadly at him, all three kept going. Oh yeah, something happened.
Pausing, Asuna mumbled something to the other two that Joe couldn't hear. Gods, she was beautiful. His thoughts were still on this when the three were all focused on him.
"Wow, that was really nice of you to wait here for our return Joe."
Argo's hard words were probing. Did she know? Scratching his head, Joe ducked and hid his face behind his bangs. "I-I wasn't waiting for just you."
Wincing, the words were less than ideal.
"What, is any girl good enough for you?"
Sachi's piercing words, relieved Joe's main concern. Now they just thought he was a creep who was hunting women. "I-its not like that!" Joe plead. "I was just working on some things and happened to see you pass through. You looked a little down, so I thought I'd say hi."
The frantic words did the trick. Immediately their expressions softened into ones of guilt.
"Ah, right. Um, thanks."
Blushing, Joe nodded frantically at Asuna's words, causing his fringe of hair to bounce up and down.
"What were you working on?" Sachi's earnest question elicited more nerves from Joe.
"W-well…" Hesitating, the girls started to get confused at his refusal to answer the question.
"Well?" Argo's biting question was tinged with suspicion starting to return.
"Poetry."
The quiet words permeated the open space and halted all further words. Saying nothing further the girls left with a quick wave and a giggle on their lips.
"Damn it!" Cursing to himself Joe returned to his bench, tears threatening to leak. "Fine make fun of me, I'm used to it." And he was. Most of the reason he had turned to gaming and ended up trapped in SAO was due to his interest in poetry. It was back in elementary school when he first discovered the freedom of expression. When he tried to share it however, he was laughed at, rejected. They thought him odd. How dare he express emotion, write his feelings. So, he hid. He buried his emotions and stopped writing. Now in SAO, the urge had struck him again and wouldn't be denied. A place to express his guilt, his fear. How easy it would be to become lost in rage. The teasing had returned with it.
Gritting his teeth, Joe typed a quick message. They returned alive. All of them. If the world was going to reject him, maybe he would reject the world.
"So, they all survived." The words were clear and controlled. If the man felt anything upon learning the news, his voice didn't betray it.
"Joe confirmed them entering town less than an hour ago." Unlike his boss, the disappointment was rife in Morte's voice. "The collapse worked so well too."
"Yes," PoH agreed with a chuckle. "It seems like monsters will not be enough to solve our problems."
"Then you mean?" Smiling, Morte's face took on a visage of lust and arrogance. Sneer deepening the man didn't care for these underhanded tactics. He wanted to watch them cry in terror as he ended their lives. Personally. It was this man who had shown him his calling. For this he was eternally grateful.
"Perhaps," PoH agreed with an easy tone. The English word spoken perfectly belayed his mastery of the language. "We need an opening. Together they will easily overpower us."
Clicking his teeth in irritation, Morte reluctantly agreed. The strength they'd shown today was fearsome. They should have had enough monsters to take out an entire party. Furthermore, it had only been the three girls, no Naruto or his lackeys. "What now then?"
"Patience," PoH instructed. "This is only floor 2 of our dream world. The harder the game gets for them the easier it gets for us. Just keep close in levels to the frontline and an opportunity will present itself."
Drawing on his knowledge from the beta test, Morte licked his lips. Yes, there were certainly many openings on their way.
"In the meantime, we recruit. We need more people to truly conquer this world."
Smiling, the men shared a glance. Paradise was just getting started.
Flabbergasted, Naruto stood there stunned. Hands slightly shaking, Naruto could feel the panic rising inside of him. Sitting down, Naruto held his head in his hands. Heart thundering, his vision distorted into fractals as fear consumed him. It didn't seem possible. While he'd been in a park meeting with a girl, the people closest to him had almost died. The thought exacerbated the raw terror. Breaths came swift and uneven, as his whole body shook. Slowly, Naruto grasped upon the only other emotion he could find, rage. A raw desire to destroy anyone who even looked at them sideways. Imagining his hands crushing the hooded figures throat helped.
"I knew we shouldn't have told him," Argo grumbled. "He's not going to trust us to tie our shoes anymore."
"So, you mean to continue tracking him?"
Looking at each other the girls shivered. Naruto's voice was quiet and cold. Stepping forward, Argo knew that his was her battle.
"We do indeed. You need to focus on clearing the game, we will deal with removing this guy."
"And how do you plan on doing that?"
Not expecting the cold rationality, Argo was slow to answer. "We're still working on that, but there's a prison in the Black Iron Palace."
"I will let you continue your search on one condition."
Blinking, Argo nodded to hear the term.
"That when it comes down to it, at the end of it all, that you prioritize your life. Do you know what I'm asking of you?"
Hanging her head, Argo spit out the conclusion that she too had come to. "That I kill him. Why do you ask this of me?"
"Because I need you, all of you, to come back alive."
"W-we can run away," Argo disagreed. "There are other ways of dealing with this."
"I won't let you risk your life on collecting information unless I know you're willing to defend yourself."
"It's unfair of you to ask this of her," Asuna disagreed. "We told you this in confidence assuming that you'd handle this well and support us."
"Unfair?" Naruto growled, "YOU ALMOST DIED!" Unable to repress it any longer, all of Naruto's supressed anger and fear exploded out of him. "I refuse to let you risk your lives chasing a man who is trying to kill you while you have no method of defense!"
"You have to let us do this," Argo denied. "regardless of how risky it is, this man is obviously trying to stop our progress in the game. It is essential to remove him, and for that we need knowledge."
"I can't…"
"Why? Why can't you!?"
Panting Argo yelled her demands. Staring Naruto in the eye, Argo wasn't sure what she wanted to hear. Someone like her uncle would have commanded her to do this.
"Because I love you!"
The declaration silenced the room as all three girls were stunned. Casting her mind back, Argo was positive it was the first time she'd ever heard Naruto use the word.
Wrapping his arms around the short girl, Naruto whispered into her hair. "So please, come back alive."
Filled with warmth, Argo didn't know what to do. She could feel Naruto's whole body slightly shaking from terror. Mind made up, Argo did what she had to. She put her life above all else. "Then if I have to, I'll do what I must so I can return to you."
Looking at the scene, Asuna felt her heart break. She'd lost before had a chance. Everything up until now no longer mattered. He loved Argo; she'd claimed the mysterious boy's heart. Looking over at how Sachi was faring, Asuna fought off tears. Sachi wasn't trying, it was obvious she was on the verge of collapse. Asuna knew no matter how much this hurt her, it must hurt Sachi a thousand times more. Walking over, Asuna pulled Sachi into a hug.
Placing her head against Asuna's shoulder, Sachi let herself cry. She had prepared for this, had known it would probably happen at some point, but for it to come to this point so suddenly, Sachi couldn't handle it. She should be happy for Argo, and she was, but for now, Sachi cried.
"Huh?" Looking up confused, Sachi was confused who had just hugged her when she felt another pair of arms surround her. "Naruto?"
The pain in Sachi's voice, made Naruto wince. Thinking back on it, he hadn't been very clear. "I didn't just mean Argo, I love all of you, I don't know what I'd do if I lost one of you."
"Eep!" Asuna's face went bright red. "T-that's a bold statement mister!"
"Ah, right," Blushing slightly, Naruto was left speechless for several moments. Glancing at his head, Naruto took a moment to compose his words. "It wasn't a lie though. Over the past few weeks, I've really been enamored with your drive, personality, and beauty. I'm sure you don't feel the same, but I don't want to see you die."
Chuckling slightly, Sachi wrapped herself around Naruto. She'd been foolish to think he'd leave her. He'd promised her and she'd doubted him once again.
Mind racing, Asuna didn't know what to do. Every detail of the room stood in harsh contrast. She took in tiny details she hadn't noticed before, all as she tried to figure out what she should do. Her heart screamed at her for a confession, but her head… "You really do think women will fall all over you with a smile and compliment."
Sniffing with disdain, Asuna turned her back on Naruto, unsure why she'd done what she just did. It had been instinctual, for some reason she'd lashed out. Wanting to bury herself in a hole, Asuna stood staring at the wall, unwilling to leave yet unsure how she could stay after saying that.
Blinking listlessly, Naruto felt like he'd just received a hit from her rapier. Especially because, maybe, just maybe, it was true. Hanging his head, Naruto wondered if he had just assumed, she liked him because she was friends with his girlfriends. Even that statement was a sign of his rampant ego. "My apologies Asuna, it was foolish of me to say that to you."
"It was," Asuna agreed tonelessly. She could hear the damage she'd done in Naruto's voice, yet she applied more. Touching her face, Asuna found tears, yet she made no move to apologize. Asuna was sure she loved him, if Naruto tried to kiss her, Asuna was certain she'd let him, but right now, some final defense mechanism was making her flinch out. Asuna really only knew love from her brother. Her father was never around, and her mother was harsh and demanding. Hearing someone say they love her… Asuna had been shaken to her core.
Looking at each other Argo and Sachi were unsure what to do. On one hand, not interfering would sever a large part of the connection between Asuna and Naruto, leaving more for them, but to do that… they would have to leave both their friend and boyfriend in pain. Nodding at each other, the girls came to a decision. Really there was no competition.
"I'm sure she didn't mean it Naruto," Sachi comforted. "She's just a little shaken up from the events of the day; we all are."
"She was pretty clear," Naruto drawled. "But it doesn't matter, she was correct. I got carried away."
Sneaking over to Asuna, Argo pulled on Asuna's ear to bring her down to Argo's level. "What the hell was that Aa-chan!? One minute your confessing that your head over heels for him, and now you're being a tsundere bitch without the dere."
"I-I don't know…" Asuna whispered back. "My heart soared, but my mouth spoke on its own."
Eyes full of pity, Argo saw herself reflected in Asuna's eyes. A girl who didn't know how to accept the love of others.
"Go," Argo whispered to the girl. "Spend the night by yourself. After the boss raid tomorrow though, I'm locking you two in a room until you at least apologize."
Nodding Asuna staggered to the door. She could barely walk on her own. She still didn't fully comprehend what she had just done. The scenario of her dreams had happened and Asuna had basically stabbed him in the heart. No, stabbing him in the heart would have hurt less. Stumbling into the second room the four of them had rented, Asuna collapsed in tears on the bed.
Back in the other room, Naruto too collapsed on a bed. Holding his head, Naruto just laughed at his naivety. For some reason, he'd thought Asuna had been upset when he'd told Argo he loved her. Obviously, she was just comforting Sachi. Wondering how he'd misread the situation so badly; Naruto was shaken to the core. He'd always thought he had an ability to read people, to determine when they were lying, when they wanted something. But with Asuna… Naruto apparently had no idea. All he knew was that he wanted to see that smile again. That full-on, no reservation smile that had lit up the room. That one smile, and part of Naruto's heart chased after it.
"Hey… Naruto, it will be alright. Asuna was out of line, I'm sure she'll apologize to you tomorrow."
"Why should she?" Naruto countered with a self-deprecating laugh. "She was right after all. The three of you were risking your lives trying to get information on a menace, and I'm lounging around flirting with girls."
"So, you really hit it off with Silica and co, eh Nar-boi?" Argo inserted herself dully into the conversation. "Look, I know Asuna's words hurt, you opened your heart to her, and she threw it away like trash. But I swear to you they weren't true. She doesn't hang out with you because she has no other choice, just remember that."
Smiling faintly at Argo, Naruto chuckled. "That's all you have to say? That I hit it off with them?"
"We did know your schedule for the day," Sachi explained exasperated. "and honestly, if flirting with little girls is what you need to clear this game, then go ahead."
Chuckling Naruto felt that pain in his heart ease. "I think I'm good, but I did offer her a spot in the party when she catches up."
"Really?" Argo asked surprised, "Is she so cute you can't stop staring or is she actually skilled?"
"Her skills aren't bad," Naruto answered, ignoring the first part. "But I think her attitude will really help the relieve stress in the frontline."
"You shouldn't try and use her as a mascot!" Sachi objected with a pout. "She's going to get her hopes up!"
"What do you mean?" Naruto asked bewildered. "All I did was offer her a place in the party…"
Sweating as the two girls rolled their eyes at him, Naruto reached for a new subject. "Oh, right. We went to the Copper Caverns Argo. I have counters for the enemies in there!"
"Oh. There."
Laughing nervously, Naruto understood a bit late it probably wasn't the best place to bring up. Argo still felt guilty for almost getting him killed in them.
"I'll update the guidebook when I get chance. Just write it out for me."
"Well, this has been interesting," Sachi laughed awkwardly. "I'm glad we're only killing Nato tomorrow."
Grunting his agreement, Naruto stretched. "I'm going to go to bed. Try and refocus for the raid tomorrow."
"Yeah. A lot happened," Argo agreed. "Also, I love you too Nar-boi." Kissing him lightly on the cheek, Argo cuddled in tightly to his side for sleep.
"Obviously, I do too," Sachi laughed.
"You do what too?" Naruto teased.
"I…" Pausing, Sachi worked her blush under control. "I love you." Quickly pecking Naruto on the cheek, Sachi dove into the pillow to hide her face.
Laughing huskily, Naruto wrapped his arms around his girlfriends and searched for sleep; grateful that they had survived another day.
"Wow! This gear is excellent!" Examining her knife, Silica also glanced back and forth form her new armour.
"With the copper Naruto got us, it was a piece of cake." Trying to be humble, there was a hint of pride in Liz's voice.
"Silica's right Liz. Take more credit."
Shaking her head, Liz denied their claims. "It's all a simple system, anyone could do it. It all just numbers and experience points."
"Maybe," Liten conceded. Silica was too far lost in her own gear to keep answering. "But, if I had a choice, I'd still choose your gear."
Flushing, Liz had to look away from the too serious Liten. "Well fine. You're welcome for the gear."
"Enough about the gear!" Silica interjected, totally contradictory to her behaviour, "did you meet your threshold?"
"Ah, yeah." Liz agreed after checking quickly. "I can definitely work Iron now. Steel is still challenging to forge."
"But still," Liten emphasised, "Even the ability to forge steel on the second floor is unheard of."
"The frontline is moving on soon tomorrow though yeah?"
"The third then. Regardless, I would bet you have the highest blacksmithing skill in the game!" Silica proclaimed happily.
"So, what are you planning on doing?" Liten pestered. "I'm sure Naruto could always set something up for you."
The teasing tone wasn't lost on Lisbeth. "Shut up. I'll adventure with you for awhile more. Try to build up some more reliable experience before peddling my skills and wares."
"Suit yourself," Liten replied with an easy shrug. "I enjoy having you around."
"Same!" Silica declared with a happy smile, "We can all join Naruto's party together!"
Coughing awkwardly both Lisbeth and Liten looked down. "Huh? Wait, you're both not also falling for him? Are you?"
Silica's high-pitched question met no reply. The enigmatic boy had left quite an impression.
Wednesday Dec 21st, 2022
With tear-ridden eyes, Asuna's hid her face securely behind her cloak. If one were to glimpse it, even the most unobservant person would know something was wrong. Even if the virtual world of SAO removed most marks instantly, her bloodshot eyes had refused to fade.
Walking through the first floors of the labyrinth her eyes were focused squarely on Naruto's back. The solid force moved resolutely through the corridors. It was doubtful anyone could tell something was wrong. But Asuna could. Normally this is where Naruto would let the raid handle the enemies as a team. Create a bond. Instead he plowed through them with attacks bordering on recklessness.
Biting her lip to stay focused, Asuna had to focus on walking straight. If she had slept last night, she didn't know. It was so fitful the nightmares were probably worse than her waking visions. That easy trusting smile morphing into pain. Like the stab of a knife another wave of guilt threatened to cripple her.
"How you doing?"
Falling back, Argo opened the conversation with gentle words.
Working her jaw, Asuna had no reply. Half of her wanted to confess her guilt to Argo, but the other half didn't know how. Her mind was a confused mess of jumbled ideas and feelings. She didn't think it was possible to feel this much. Even now she was mere moments away from a breakdown.
"Not good I'm guessing. Well you just listen then."
Glancing briefly at Argo, Asuna was stunned by the controlled fury burning in her eyes. Argo truly and deeply loved Naruto. It didn't matter how long they'd known each other. It didn't matter that Argo was only one of the girls Naruto loved. Argo would go to any lengths for him because she knew that Naruto would do the same.
Bowing her head, Asuna prepared herself to get chewed out. No doubt Argo's anger was at her for hurting Naruto.
"This boss fight is coming at a very bad time."
Snapping her head up, Asuna's confusion lead her to say her first words of the day, "What do you mean?"
"Naruto may be hiding it better, but he's really torn up inside. His confidence has been shattered. We need a leader, and no one's better than him."
"What can I do about it?" Asuna snapped back. "He's far better than me anyway."
Ignoring Asuna's sass, Argo continued talking like she was lecturing a petulant child. "Guard him. If he does something stupid, I'm counting on you to make sure he survives it."
The reality of the situation finally sank in for Asuna. They weren't walking around in the labyrinth for fun. There was a very real chance that some of these people may not survive the day. "Naruto will not die while I draw breath."
The confident declaration seemed to have stunned Argo slightly. "His own personal bodyguard, heh."
"Well, I'm no Singulare, but I'll do my best."
The unfamiliar word made Argo cock her head to the side but there was no time for questions, more monsters had come.
"Here we are," Naruto declared outside the doors of the second-floor boss. "I'm sure you are tired of hearing this, but the primary objective is to kill Nato the Colonel Taurus. Once he has fallen, we will make the decision whether to press forward or back off and wait for the chakram. Let's go."
Opening the door with his left hand, Naruto entered the circular chamber. With a flat surface some 20 metres high, Naruto determined that must be the surface of the third floor. Unlike Illfang's chamber, this one Illuminated all at once. Standing like statues in the middle of the room, Baran and Nato looked like a classic big brother trope. Smirking at them, Naruto nodded once at Kibaou, before heading for Baran. Dodging an erroneous Hammer swing, Naruto launched a Vertical Arc into Baran's stomach. Howling with fury, Baran moved to reply.
"Switch!" Yelling strongly, Tetsuo jumped in front of Naruto and cleanly blocked the attack.
Frowning, Arthur couldn't help but feel chills as he watched the fight unfold. On the surface, everything was proceeding perfectly. Baran was slowly losing ground, and Nato, the main objective, was being systematically dismantled by four parties. All in all, the fight was proceeding exactly as scripted. However, Arthur still couldn't peel his gaze away Naruto. There was something slightly odd about the commands.
"Asuna, parallel sting."
Breath hitching, Arthur figured out what was off. Naruto hadn't used Asuna's name in a fight since before Illfang. Their timings were often instinctual or timed with a glance. Not only did he call her name, he told her what skill to use. It was like Naruto was instructing someone he didn't know. Praying everything went well, Arthur waited for Nato to die.
It happened when Baran was halfway through his third bar, Agil slammed a powerful two-hit sword skill on Nato's head scoring a critical hit and the last attack bonus. Jumping away from Baran, Naruto turned towards the approaching party leaders.
"Well, that went well!" Hafner declared. "We should retreat now before Baran enters his last bar."
"I think we should finish it now."
Naruto's firm declaration silenced the party leaders. Looking at each other nervously. No one spoke up one way or the other.
"Well?" Naruto asked testily.
"I'm not sure I see the advantages in continuing," Agil admitted confused. "We accomplished our goal."
"But why retreat?" Naruto forced, "this fight has been easy so far. I doubt Asterios will change that. I mean, no one even entered yellow."
"I agree," Kibaou declared. "Imagine the morale boost when the third floor opens up!"
One by one, the party leaders agreed to continue. Smiling, Naruto turned back to Baran. "We finish this fight now! When Baran hits the last stage Damage dealers move in, I want him dead two and a half minutes after entering that final stage."
"Ah shit," Arthur mumbled to himself. He should have tried harder to talk to Naruto earlier. Now the raid was locked into a boss fight where Naruto was obviously not in the correct mind state. Gritting his teeth Arthur was struck by indecision. The same indecision that plagued him his first night was coming back.
Either Arthur could undermine Naruto's leadership to try and get a retreat or go along with a rushed raid. Putting his faith in Naruto's skill, Arthur prayed that nothing would go wrong.
With Tetsuo hitting Baran, the Taurus general reared back his head and howled as it entered its rage. However, the sound was superseded by a gong. Reverberating around the room, the sound silenced everyone. Holding their breath out of awe and fear, the king appeared. Dwarfing even Baran, Asterios entered the room. Matte black from head to toe, light appeared to avoid this creature from the depths of hell. Wielding a golden hammer, he gave off an aura of dominance.
Freezing up, the raid simply stared at the giant Taurus who had come to deliver royal punishment. Its giant form towered over the sixteen-foot Baran. Head almost scraping the roof, the six-health bar Asterios looked down upon the raid as a human would on a swarm of ants.
"MOVE!" Naruto screamed, snapping them out of their stupor. Asterios had spawned in the middle of the room, almost on top of Kibaou's party.
"You heard him! Party C engage!"
Sighing with relief, that everything was back on track, Naruto moved in on the now raging Baran. With Baran starting a Numbing Detonation, Naruto leaped. Holding the stance for Horizontal in midair, Naruto's blade collided solidly with the middle of Baran's hammerhead. With a bone jarring jolt Naruto's sword was harshly repelled. Likewise, Baran's hammer skidded off the ground, Numbing Detonation's zone of stunning not proccing.
Smiling his victory, Naruto landed and chained it directly into a Flash Blow. One of the starting Martial Arts skills that he had practiced the previous day. While the damage was minor, it was immediately followed up by the rest of the assigned damage dealers. Receiving seven sword skills, Baran's final health bar dropped almost 10%.
Rearing back from the damage, Baran chained it into another Numbing Detonation. Growling, Naruto rolled as far from the impact sight as he could. Glaring at the sparks of electricity that arced towards him, Naruto waited to see what the outcome would be. Luckily, the sparks shattered against his protector and were repelled. Using the opening, Naruto hopped on top of Baran's hammer head.
Leaping off the hammer as Baran raised it, Naruto unleased a Vertical Arc against Baran's horns. Having taken a powerful blow in a nigh unreachable weak point, Baran fell backwards.
Crashing with a terrible thud, Naruto's scream of, "Now!" proved unnecessary. Rushing in, Baran took sword skill after sword skill, causing his health to drop precipitously.
"Ah, shit!" Naruto cursed. Despite the insane amount of damage that been output in the short span, the boss wasn't ready to call it quit quite yet. Rolling over, Baran focused all of his rage on one point, Naruto. Literally glowing red, Baran's defense continued to drop and his attack ascended.
With almost no armour to his name, Naruto was running the risk of dying to a critical hit. Holding his ground, Naruto met the charge straight on. He may have been wrong about Asuna, but this he was unbeatable at. Shouting his defiance to the world, Naruto ran in to counter Baran, a final gambit to remove the distraction so the real boss fight could begin.
With Tauruses, the horns were the weak point, yet Baran was approaching head lowered, apparently unconcerned about that. Doubt flickering, Naruto hesitated a moment but no more. Growling at his cowardice, Naruto started his most powerful skill, Vertical Arc.
Just before the skill went off, a force hit Naruto in the side, Arthur. Having shoved Naruto out the way, Baran's sharp horn cut deeply into Arthur's side. With all the power of an enraged floor boss, Arthur lost close to half his health in one hit.
Standing up straight, Baran went back to his old tactic, Numbing Detonation. Moving away from spot, Naruto barely got out of the way of the descending hammer, which left him almost in the center of the stunning zone. This time, his protector couldn't save him. Freezing in place, Naruto was stunned. Anneal Blade dropping to the floor, Naruto clenched his unmoving jaw. Six seconds of being unable to move.
Smiling down at him, Baran readied his hammer once again. Another Numbing Detonation.
"I won't let you!" Rushing in, Asuna seemed to fly through the air, cloak forgotten. Unleashing a Parallel Sting at the top of her trajectory, the tip of her rapier caught the handle of Baran's hammer. With a clanging noise, the skill was disrupted.
"Kill it!" Naruto yelled at his stunned party. Rushing forward himself, Naruto was determined to make that Baran's last skill.
With multiple glowing flashes tearing into his flesh, Baran fell to his knees and let out a piercing cry before shattering. Ignoring the fallen side boss, Naruto simply stared at the figure which had risked themselves for him. Asuna. Meeting his gaze, Asuna's eyes trembled. Naruto was unable to turn away from her. He knew he needed to, there was still a fight going on, but he couldn't wrap his brain around it. Why? Why did she risk herself like that? It didn't make sense. At worst Naruto would have gotten paralyzed by the second hit and been out for half a minute. All she had to do was lead the attackers in finishing off Baran.
Shaking his head, Naruto forced himself to look at the main event, Asterios. He would deal with Asuna later.
Turning just in time, Naruto got to see the famed super attack. Leaning back, Asterios puffed up his cheeks before unleashing lightning at the raid party. Surprisingly, most of them actually dodged it.
"Kibaou, status report!"
"It's bloody strong! But slow, so we've been able to deal with it so far."
"Good, and that lightning breath attack?"
"Doesn't use it much when people are whacking away at it. The dodge when the eyes glow helps a ton, but it's still hard for everyone to dodge."
Nodding, Naruto moved in to assume command. "Party D out, E in."
Moving to obey his commands, Agil brought his out while Orlando waved his seven-man party forward. That gap which Hafner had left was originally supposed to have been replaced by Nezha, but Naruto hadn't waited for him to collect the Martial Arts skill. Collecting aggro with the Howl skill, Asterios used the Numbing Detonation skill.
From what Naruto had deduced so far, Asterios' detonation ability actually had a lower stun rate than Baran's and Nato's. What it made up for was an increased radius, which made it harder for previously stunned players to get out of range of a repeat ability. Therefore, when Asterios' hammer rang off the stone floor, all seven men were inside the stunning circle. Like dominos, six of them fell to their knees stunned. All but Shivata, who possessed highly upgraded heavy armor.
It was a glaring demonstration of the difference in equipment quality. Orlando's party had spent a long time helping Nezha try to overcome his FNC, combined with Nezha then becoming a blacksmith then switching back to fighter, Orlando's party was quite obviously the weakest here.
"Party A, cover them!" Moving forward himself, Naruto unleashed a Horizontal Arc on Asterios hoping to disrupt the next skill. Dealing a pitiful percentage of Asterios' max health, Naruto was dependent on Tetsuo taking aggro.
Turning towards the new challengers, Asterios kicked at Tetsuo. Grunting, Tetsuo slid back almost ten feet. When his health bar stopped moving the amount lost was less than 10%. A mixture of how good Tetsuo's gear is and that the blow was absorbed correctly. Following up, the rest of Naruto's party beat on Asterios with further skills.
Howling, Asterios finally entered his second health bar. Fixing his grip on his sword's handle, Naruto prepared himself for a long fight. With Asterios attempting to use yet another breath attack, Naruto decided to try something. Pulling a stone out of his pocket, Naruto cocked his arm and waited. Releasing the rock as Asterios moved to fire, the stone collided perfectly with his horns and did… nothing. The damage was unperceivable, and the breath continued, it was obvious a heavier object was needed to deal with the attack.
"You'll need to do better than that, Nar-boi," Argo teased. "Mind if I try next time?"
Nodding, Naruto didn't trust himself to talk to her. He was still too shaken up by Asuna's actions to try and talk to any of the girls. Barking more commands, Naruto focused on what he was good at fighting. Noticing and manipulating enemies' weaknesses. The problem was, Asterios' only weakness was how slow the overgrown cow is, Naruto thought bitterly.
Moving back in, Naruto released his pent-up rage on the immobile Taurus. Almost reaching the ceiling left Asterios with long recharge periods and obvious skills. It was strange, but he almost wished the boss was harder in the way Illfang was. Lightning fast skills that required preparation to counter. The only mechanic of Asterios that was interesting was his breath attack.
When Asterios went to do another breath attack, Naruto watched interested, as Argo brought out a throwing pick to test her luck. One of the few people Naruto knew who used them. Currently there were few benefits to investing a skill slot into Throwing Knives, but if it was shown to be useful against bosses, it would likely become more popular.
Watching with anticipation, the steel pick flew a straight line leaving a glowing red trail behind it, reminding Naruto of a comet. The speeding pick collided much harder than Naruto could have ever of managed without the skill, and the result showed. Critical damage noise ringing out, Asterios choked on his lightning. Smiling, Naruto nodded his appreciation to Argo. With the breath now having a counter, the raid's supply of paralysis heal wouldn't deplete as quickly.
Sending Hafner's party F in, Naruto called over Orlando.
"Is something wrong?" Orlando asked concerned.
"No. I was just wondering if you'd be willing to sit out the rest of the fight. In your party, only Shivata really has the means to fight against this boss."
"You can't do this to us!" Orlando growled. "We didn't have to tell you about that blacksmithing trick."
Cocking an eyebrow at him, Naruto stared at Orlando long and hard.
"Eh, that is… We have a right to fight this boss as well."
"As you wish. Remember though, your party members lives are on your head."
Face blanching, Orlando nodded stiffly before returning to his party.
"F out, A in!" Calling for yet another swap, the fourth bar emptied. Pounding away at the tree trunk-esque legs, Naruto struggled to keep his emotions under control. He knew the decision to continue fighting had been foolish, and his behaviour against Baran even more so, but when it went so well, it was hard to find faults.
With Asterios now in his fifth health bar, the Numbing Detonations came more frequently, and the monotony increased. Due to investing money into the tanks' gear, they were usually saved from the stun, but the damage dealers got caught.
"Hey Nar-boi, I'm down to a dozen picks."
"Save them for the final stage then." Replying without looking, Naruto made his decision. It may cost them some time but possessing a means to cancel the breath when Asterios raged may be crucial.
At that moment, like Asterios had heard their conversation, he sucked in a deep breath. "Dodge it!" scream echoing over the din of the fight, the raid was obviously confused, but understood the situation.
Recovering admirably, Kibaou led his party, the targets of the breath, in dodging away from where the lightning was aimed.
Having managed to escape with no paralysis victims, Naruto breathed a sigh of relief. As long as they stayed vigilant, even without cancelling the breath attack, they should be fine.
Switching in Kibaou's party, Naruto kept his eye on Joe. He seemed to keep sending nervous glances this way, as if he was scared on Naruto. Playing over the conversation they'd had two days ago, Naruto couldn't recall anything that warranted this kind of caution. Unless… Tracking Joe's eye line, Naruto was less certain the glances were actually at him. They were at his party for sure, but not necessarily him.
Frowning, Naruto put it in a growing list of things he'd get around to when there was time. Unfortunately, Joe's distractions proved disadvantageous for his party. Unfocused, an errant kick from Asterios caught Joe on the shoulder. Crying out, Joe was sent into a tumble status from the giant hoof.
"Joe!" screaming the name of his fallen comrade, Kibaou used a sword skill to try and slow Asterios down.
Appearing to snort in the face of scratching toothpicks, Asterios sought vengeance upon the invaders who defied his royal will. Raising his mighty hammer above his head, the target of the blow was Joe.
"Tetsuo block it!" Naruto roared at the idle tank. Standing closest to where Joe was downed, Naruto knew that without a shield he would do nothing to stop the blow from the heavens.
Getting there just in time, Tetsuo crouched over the downed figure. With a resounding clang, the reverberations of the impact held dominance over the sounds of the room. Falling backwards, Tetsuo lost close to 30% of his health stopping an attack that wasn't supposed to be stopped. Thankfully, Joe got up with an uneasy nod to Naruto and resumed the fight against Asterios.
One crisis averted; Naruto clapped Tetsuo on the back for his heroism. "Good job out there."
"That was pretty scary, but I didn't even take all that much damage!" grinning happily, Tetsuo looked like a little kid.
"Heal up for our rotation. The rage could be dangerous."
Slowly but surely, the fifth bar continued to empty. Percentage by percentage, pixel by pixel, it emptied. Once again it was time. Retracting Hafner's party, Naruto inserted his own for when Asterios entered his final bar.
Howling at the sky, the once pure onyx skin began pulsing a dark red. Almost seeming to emanate an aura of pure anger, Asterios began its rampage. Sucking in air, for its breath attack, Argo intercepted it with a well-placed pick.
Relief that the mechanism for stopping it still worked, Naruto set to work on draining the final bar. Having finally reached a respectable moving speed, Asterios had reached its most dangerous point. On the flipside, it had also reached its weakest. The health bar was draining faster than any of the previous despite the high number of skills that the Taurus King was using.
"Coming through!" with a shout, Klein switched places with Arthur to rend ebony flesh with his new curved sword. Ever since the fight against Illfang, a feeling of discontent warred with hope inside of him. He'd seen a katana, they existed. The raw speed and control that Illfang wielded the weapon with sent spikes of jealousy into Klein. While he liked the curved sword, images of that katana taunted him.
Leaping back, Klein was replaced by Coper who used his skills against the lower leg of Asterios. Klein could practically imagine himself sitting at the computer, guiding this fight with a birds-eye-view of proceedings. Fighting something like this in first person was awkward as you had to crane your neck to see what the boss was doing.
Cueing up another Numbing Detonation, Klein's party scattered from the impact site. While they were still within the potential stunning range, the chances were so low at this range it wasn't worth worrying about.
Using Reaver, Klein felt an odd sensation in his legs. Blade impacting Asterios, Klein fell down almost on the boss. Stunned. Klein couldn't believe it. The sword skill hadn't been interrupted but he was still stunned.
Bringing back the foot that Klein had fallen besides, Asterios kicked him in a lazy arc over the heads of the watching raid party.
Closing his eyes for the impact Klein was praying he'd survive.
"Ouf!" a deep voice grunted. "Heavier than you look."
Opening his eyes, Klein was presently surprised to see he'd barely entered the yellow. On the other hand, he was now supported in the arms of a large man, Agil, Klein belatedly remembered. Blushing awkwardly, Klein attempted to roll out of the hold only for the man to drop him at the same time.
"Uh… Thanks for that." Dashing away from the awkward encounter, Klein drank a health potion and looked for his party mates.
Klein managed to reunite with his party just as a cheer went up from the raid; the final bar was now yellow. One twelfth of the floor boss' health was all that stood in the way of them now.
"Let's get him!" Cheering Kibaou led his party into the fray against Asterios.
Grunting, Klein was displeased at the switch. His party had been short-shifted, but Klein knew why Naruto had done it. He still had the recent stun debuff and was barely in the green. Another Numbing Detonation would have paralyzed him and compromised the integrity of his party.
"Sorry about that guys." Klein apologized to his forlorn party. "If I hadn't gotten kicked, we would still be in there.
Shrugging Arthur replied nonchalantly. "Don't worry about it. It was a strange interaction with an unlucky stun."
Nodding, the rest of the party affirmed they were just glad he was safe.
"Yeah, I'm good. That big guy, Agil, caught me."
As his party snickered imagining it, Klein went red. "Shut up." Focusing his attention of Asterios, Klein tried to ignore his party's jabs.
Performing well, Kibaou's party gave way to Agil's who traded with Orlando's. Unleashing a round of sword skills, Asterios' final bar entered red. The final stretch of the marathon fight was about to begin.
Becoming even more suffused with red, Asterios bellowed his final challenge. The last rite of a fallen king. Stepping forward, Orlando led his party to answer it.
"Be prepared to step in." Naruto whispered to Hafner. "This could go very wrong, very quickly."
"Noted." Hafner whispered back. The memories of his party dying to Illfang probably still plagued him. "Why did you send them back in?"
"Orlando wanted to go," Naruto shrugged. "He knows the risks."
Grunting, Hafner only waved his party into position to intercept Asterios at any moment.
Stomping around the middle of the chamber, Asterios picked up speed once again. Without reading the scenario correctly, it was now very easy to get hit by the boss. Swinging its hammer haphazardly, Asterios seemed to have given up on his lightning breath.
Roaring, Asterios took a page out of Baran's book, Numbing Detonation followed by Numbing Detonation, with a third just for good measure. Sparks consuming the party, in the aftermath, only Shivata remained standing. Of the other six, three of them were paralyzed.
Gritting his teeth, Naruto wondered if he'd just seen his first death in a raid led by him.
"I've got you guys!" Shouting his determination, Shivata stood resolutely in Asterios' path. Blocking a two-part skill followed by another hammer swing, Agil's party was able to retrieve the downed members and bring them to safety.
"Let's go guys!" Leading his party, Hafner relieved the beaten Shivata in the fight against the boss. Sighing, Naruto watched amused as the health fell into the final percentages. Deciding it would be rude to steal the glory from party F, Naruto leaned back and waited for the fight to end.
"Party F out, A in!" Calling the switch himself, Hafner switched his party out for Naruto's. Giving the man one last look, Naruto motioned for his party to finish the boss. However, with only a few pixels left, the other seven backed off as if in one precoordinated motion leaving Naruto to claim the Last Attack.
With a determined shout, Naruto's blade carved a bloodred V into the boss' leg. Stuck in the post-motion pause, Naruto waited for the explosion that would signal the end of the raid. Not seeing it, Naruto stared into the empty health bars. There, on the edge of the last health bar, a miniscule silver of red. Almost invisible to the eye.
Having taken too long, Asterios wound up to punch Naruto. Meeting the fist head on, Naruto punched back. It was almost humorous, David versus goliath the fists collided. Similar to the story, it was goliath who fell. Rearing back from the impact, Asterios howled his demise to the roof and exploded into polygons.
Sliding back almost 5 feet from the where the impact took place, Naruto snorted at the defeated boss.
"That was so cool!" Ducker shouted, as the congratulations banner appeared in the chamber. "Meeting the boss blow to blow for the last hit! You'll have girls lining up to join your harem after this!"
Scratching his head, Naruto only smiled awkwardly in response.
"Actually, before heading to the third floor, there is something we need to discuss, if you could all gather round."
Excitement and cheers muting a bit, the raid eventually gathered obediently around Naruto. "What's up?" Agil asked confused.
"On the third floor, a campaign quest starts. I believe it will be more prudent if we choose a group to do it now and let them finish it."
"How long is this campaign quest?" Kibaou asked with a slight pucker. Naruto knew it hurt for Kibaou to accept knowledge from the beta test, but it was still an exploitable resource Naruto would take every advantage of.
"All I know is that it was still going on the eighth floor. It most likely would have finished on the ninth from the information provided in the quest, however."
At this, most of the raid broke into nervous mutterings and whispers. Naruto understood. Even though they'd arrived at the third floor, the ninth seemed to be eons away.
"If we are to clear this game, we will pass the ninth eventually anyway." Continuing to talk, Naruto ignored his own doubts to remain strong for the raid group. "Rather than anyone doing that quest, I'd like to appoint a party which will deal with the campaign quests on each floor."
"So, you're looking for a volunteer party?" Hafner asked.
"In a way," Naruto agreed, "however, I already have a group in mind if they agree."
Locking eyes with Orlando, Naruto watched them gulp, fear deep in his eyes.
"The Legend Braves?" Kibaou sneered, "you think they're strong enough for something this important?"
Hearing the doubts of the other parties, Orlando went scarlet. Opening his mouth, Naruto cut him off.
"Yes, I do. This campaign quest is an excellent way for them to close the gap in levels as well. Does anyone disagree with this plan?"
When he heard no complaints, Naruto continued to explain. "On the path to the main city on the next floor, the path splits. We will continue right to the city while you go left and start the quest. You will need to break into two groups, one of three and one of four. Nezha can join when he is finished getting his skill. This is because there are two different sides that you can work the quest from, understand?"
Seeing a varying number of nods, Naruto nodded. "Then unto the third floor. Congratulations everyone!"
Walking up the stairs first, Naruto led the complete raid group onto the next stage of the game.
"Asuna…"
Wincing, Asuna wasn't sure what to say. She'd been reckless today during the boss raid. But when she'd seen Naruto about to get paralyzed, she couldn't stop herself. Biting her lip, Asuna hid her face behind her hood.
"Why did you do it?"
The quiet voice was full of uncertainty. Feeling awful, Asuna shuffled her feet. They'd had such an easy relationship before. A quiet chemistry allowing them to communicate immediately in battle. Today had been… painful.
"Well!?"
As she was pressed for an answer, Asuna sank further into her thoughts. She knew why she did it. But how could she say she loved him? No, it was better to apologize and leave. Maybe she could go back to being solo. He's bound to be happier without me around…
"Please! It's been eating at me all day…"
Hands on her shoulders, Asuna stared into Naruto's tearing eyes. Heart clenching, Asuna knew she could hide it no longer.
"I love you."
The soft words echoed eternally in her mouth. Even their breathing seemed to halt in response to Asuna's declaration. It was just the two of them. Argo and Sachi had been distracted by the festivities when Naruto had dragged her away. Standing on top of an isolated tree in the heart of Zumfut, the words disappeared into the surroundings. Swallowing, Asuna continued.
"Ever since you saved me, I knew you were special. Then you listened to me and offered me life again. You gave me hope and a second chance. I'm so sorry for what I said last night. I panicked."
Not replying Naruto simply stroked Asuna's cheek. Looking into her eyes, there was no need for further words. Pulling her towards him, Naruto kissed Asuna full on the lips.
Squealing, Asuna tensed up but made no move to pull away. Leaning into it, Asuna felt a heat build within her. So, this is what it feels like to be loved. Wrapped in warmth, Asuna succumbed to the building giddiness within her.
Her entire life, Asuna had been fed scrapes of love; enough to build a bond but no more. The priority in her family had always been work. Even with her brother, Asuna had always felt that they were more like two people forced to walk the same difficult path than anything.
Giggling, Asuna pressed her glowing face into Naruto's chest. Soaking in his presence, Asuna felt an invisible weight lift off her shoulders. The rest of the game, the years ahead of them… she was looking forward to it. As long as she could stand at this odd boy's side, she was content.
"Well, well. So, this is where you lovebirds snuck off to." Argo spoke drily, interrupting the couple. She had to admit; the result was to be expected in a spot like this. Standing atop one of Zumfut's great trees, the view was breathtaking. Night had fallen and brought with it a sea of stars. The endless lights illuminating the dark canopy was magical.
Shaking her head at them, Argo fought to supress the twinge of jealousy she felt. Laying down on a hammock together, Asuna's head was supported comfortably on Naruto's chest. With intertwined legs, it was apparent the couple had been here awhile.
Disengaging herself slowly, Asuna seemed reluctant to escape the embrace. Facing Argo with a half-hearted smile, Asuna realised it was time to come back to reality. They weren't star-crossed lovers, destined to complete each other. Asuna was merely one of many.
Catching sight of a shooting star, Asuna silently made a wish to herself. That she too could be like that star. It may burn up at some point, but of all of the multitudes, it shone the brightest.
Clenching her hand, Asuna held it over her heart. Like the night sky, there are many people who Naruto supports, but Asuna etched her promise into her heart. Even if she one day fades from sight, she will press forward with all her strength. She may not be unique, but she'd be special.
Staring at the resolute girl, whose gaze was fixed into the distance, Argo felt a swirl of complicated emotions. The same mixture that threatened to overcome her when she had told Sachi about the ethic settings. Even though nothing had come of that, strangely; Argo still couldn't help but feel the bile of defeat attack her throat.
It wasn't that Argo had been oblivious to them leaving the celebration to come up here, but Argo decided it was for the best. Yet each time she decided it was for the best, Naruto's attention was dragged to other girls. Rubbing her forehead in confusion, Argo tried to get her emotions under control.
When Naruto had run to Horunka with her, if Argo had then convinced him to continue with her, it was likely she would have him to herself by now. And yet… beneath the mild disappointment and jealousy… there was happiness. She enjoyed spending time with Sachi and Asuna. Even if these new girls that Argo had yet to meet got caught by Naruto's magnetism, Argo knew… she'd still love him.
Smiling faintly at how lovestruck she must be to agree to a scenario like this, Argo walked to where Naruto was slowly raising himself from the ground.
"Did the two of you have fun?" Argo teased.
"Ah, uh… yeah," replying awkwardly, Naruto blushed. "I know we never really talked about uh… adding someone else… but, uh…" Stammering incoherently, Naruto was unable to speak the reality warping sentence.
"You mean how you kind of added another member to your harem without consulting the members already in it?" Argo asked drily. "Well, Asuna was basically a member from the get-go."
"Only because you forced me to be present during your confession," Asuna retorted.
"I only did that because I knew you liked him too and didn't want to blindside you," Argo shot back.
Blushing, Asuna looked away with no reply.
Chuckling to himself, Naruto wrapped his arms around the girls' shoulders. "Let's go find Sachi, I'm sure she'll want to say something."
Giving the beautiful sky one final glance, Naruto retreated down the endless staircase to find the third girl who had a piece of his heart.
Under that same sky, a dark elf breathed her final breaths. Chest heaving under her breastplate, the elf stretched one hand towards a shooting star that danced through the canopy. "I'm coming… Tilnel…"
Her statement was true, but it hid a lie. She didn't want to die yet. From deep in her heart, a place buried out of sight from her fellow knights. A wish sprang forth. That a hero would save her. That someone would end this pointless struggling between the dark and light elves. One tear welled up at the corner of her eye. "At least, I'll be with my sister."
Bursting into polygons, a solitary tear remained suspended before succumbing to gravity. Falling to the forest floor, it too dissolved into the matrix of Sword Art Online. In the following silence nothing remained of the dark elf, or her last fervent wish.
