A/N Hi guys, I'm back with more! It feels weird that half of summer vacation is over, but I hope that'll be enough time. In any case, I'm going to have to balance out my schedule more. I appreciate all the patience from those who are following this story so far and enjoyed it. When I get done with my summer homework, I'll try to squeeze in more chapters and speed it up a bit. Don't hope for too much though, there are limits to even my ability... Anyhow, happy reading~
"You're late," I said methodically annoyed.
Argo had arrived just now to our planned meeting. We were in an empty bar on the 10th floor. The tiles were olive green and the wood mahogany. I was sitting on a wooden stool, which incidentally, also spun. However, conforming to my age, I did not partake in such childish endeavors, because society judges...
"God, you're pushy..." Argo said pretending to be hurt. After all this time, she never changed...
"We're NOT on a date, so I don't care," I said indifferently. Truthfully, I could be more polite, but I at least, didn't have time for formalities.
"So if we were on a date, you'd be nice?..." Argo teased me. I gave her a blank stare.
"Don't push your luck," I said coldly.
"Fine, fine. Be that way... just for that I'm gonna cost you extra this time," she retorted. I rolled my eyes.
"I need to find someone named Ashley," I said tersely. Argo's eyebrows raised themselves in surprise.
"The seamstress? Why ever would you need to find someone like her?... Could you possibly be-"
"No," I said abruptly, quelling any insinuation she might've been concocting in her devious little head.
"Really?" She said doubtfully playful. I gave her a hard stare as my response. She sighed and gave in.
"You're so mean, Kii-bou... I just wanted to have a 'little' fun..." Argo said resigned. I gave a slightly incredulous expression. 'Little' was an understatement...
"So what do you want from her?" Argo said finally serious. I deliberated on how I was going to phrase this.
"I'm looking to... request a new outfit from her. Asuna referred me to her," I said hesitantly watching Argo's expression. She was smirking, and I was regretting this meeting.
"I see... so basically you're shopping," she put simply.
"No... I'm making business," I said defensively.
"Right. The business of shopping," she said unrelentingly.
"Would you stop that? It's completely professional matters," I said nearing the end of my rope.
"You're so cute when you're angry," Argo said teasingly. I scowled at her heavily.
"That's not funny..." I said humorlessly.
"I'm serious, Kirito..."
"Why do you have to make me sound like a girl?" I inquired agitated. She gave an insufferable smirk.
"Well, now that you mention it, with the smooth skin, feminine looks, and tsundere attitude, all we need to do is replace your Y chromosome and-"
"Shut up..." I said miffed. My pride was wounded and I didn't feel like talking anymore. Tsundere?... what the hell was she talking about... I'm Kirito-dere... but that's not a real term, so I guess kuudere would be close enough...
"I'm messing with you, lighten up, princess," she joked and I did not feel consoled by her contradictory statement which defeated the purpose of the intention.
"I should find a less annoying info dealer..." I muttered aggravated.
"Alright, alright. Calm down... if you're looking for Ashley, you'll find her at the east inn. She hasn't settled down yet, so don't expect her to stay there forever. Picky girl, but maybe that's your type..." Argo said innocently suggestive. It took a great amount of effort to repress my immediate response to that comment.
"Anything else?" I said strictly professional.
"Before you go charging in all cavalier, you should know she has certain 'requirements' before you can request an order from her. Even then, the price isn't exactly a bargain... You'll want to get topnotch quality material before she considers the job. But I assure you, the investment is worth it," Argo promised me. That sounded like an adequate amount of info, so I decided to get up and leave. I tossed her a bag of leftover money, and walked to the door. Argo made one more comment.
"Hey Kii-bou?" She called after me suggestively. I turned to listen and felt as though I would regret it.
"Ashley-san happens to have just turned twenty... and she's quite the brunette, so..."
"I DON'T wanna hear it," I said clapping my hands to my ears and running away. My auditory perception was obstructed, but I could imagine Argo laughing at me after I left.
I walked rather nervously to the east inn. During my grinding periods from previous floors, I had accumulated quite the abundance of materials. I sold most the run-of-the-mill ones which comprised the majority of my profits. But since I had spent hours of unadulterated grinding sessions, I managed to acquire a few high quality materials in stock. I hoped that this would be enough.
I arrived at my destination. I walked over to the threshold and turned the knob. I allowed myself in and was greeted by an NPC. She was an elderly old lady who was busy sweeping the floor. This was apparently a dinnerware store because I examined rows of finely made plates and neatly polished cups and such. There was only one other person here. There was a woman sitting near the window scrutinizing the length of a red thread with a needle. I approached her and coughed to make my presence known. She turned towards me and I felt the impression of being analyzed critically. I almost started twiddling my thumbs, which was not very manly.
"And you are?" She said expectantly. I resolved to stop averting my eyes and face her. In the process I managed to take in her appearance.
She was as young as Argo had described, maybe even more so. Her face was pale but with pink cheeks and a smoothly curved chin. Her hair was a dark chocolate brown, tied in a bun with stray hairs sporadically spiking out giving a certain stylish flair. Her eyes were green and she wore pure white shirt with flowery decorations. She also adorned a dark blue skirt which hung above knee length, with designer markings. She wore caramel sandals and glittering silver earrings. I took note that she also had golden highlights in her hair. She was undeniably, very beautiful and I can't believe I was technically checking her out...
"I um... was wondering if you were the famous Ashley I heard about..." I said very bashfully. Her critical gaze alleviated slightly when she heard that remark.
"And if I am?..." She said indifferently. I weighed my best options on how to respond.
"I was wondering if you could... make an outfit for me. I have the materials, don't worry... you can, uh, judge them for quality," I said and opened a trade menu. It listed the following:
«Arachnid Silk» x 3
«Blue Dragon Leather»
«Molted Snakeskin» x 3
«Diamond Scales» x 20
«Silver Stallion Mane Hair» x 4
«Lion Mane Hair» x 5
I had no idea how much these particular items were actually worth, I just judged them by their value rankings. All items were put on a scale of A to F. When you reached higher levels, there were such ratings such as AA and AAA. The rarest of them all were S rankings. None had been seen in the game so far, but it was referenced in books and rumored by people. I'm pretty sure if I ever ran into one, I would keep it, but I would consider selling if I had no use for it.
Ashley finished examining my offered materials. She gave me a neutral expression and asked me simple question.
"What's your name?" She said rather politely. Shit. I knew that was going to come up. I thought about lying but something about her expression told me not to.
"Kirito..." I said cautiously in a quiet manner. Well, there goes that ship... I was hoping for a successful transaction.
"I see. So you're the Beater I've heard about," she said dragging out the emphasis on 'you're'. I closed my eyes and braced for the impact. I met the impact, but not the one I was expecting.
Suddenly I felt smothered and suffocated. What was this soft feeling in my face?...
"UWAHHH! YOU'RE SO CUTE!" Ashley said and suddenly I knew what was happening. My face reddened and I tried to speak out a muffled reply. She let go of me, for which I was thankful... kind of.
"I'm sorry!" She said apologetically for unintentionally asphyxiating me. "But you're JUST like Asuna said you'd be..." she continued approvingly. I felt embarrassed and curious at the same time. Asuna talked about me?
"Umm... do you happen to remember what she said?" I asked trying to be casual. She of course picked up on this and smiled teasingly. The escape from Argo seemed pointless now...
"Oh, I don't know... she said something about you being an 'unbelievable' idiot with an unbearable personality to back it up... but also very sweet and caring," she added tenderly. I smiled inwardly. That sounded about right to me.
"She also told me a little bit about the real you... I hope you don't mind, it's a girl thing," she elaborated and I'm not sure how I felt about that. What exactly did she know?...
"Pretty much everything," Ashley said as though in response to my thoughts. Scary... I guess my face gave it away... Note to self: stop being painfully obvious.
"You don't have to worry," she added gently and I finally looked at her again without feeling awkward. "I was beta tester too, I was just more interested in something a bit more... expressive. I've always had a thing for clothing and accessories. It makes me feel proud to create extravagant works of art... that you can wear no less!" Ashley exclaimed enthusiastically.
"I can respect that," I nodded acknowledging her pursuit. It took time to refine your own skills, so meeting another person of similar dedication created an unspoken equality.
"Awwww, you're so nice," Ashley said adoringly. "Asuna said you teased her a lot... what, am I not good enough to play with?" She said accusingly. I sweatdropped.
"No, not at all! I was just... trying to make a good impression..." I mumbled and drifted into timid silence. She patted my head gingerly and I felt discomforted but oddly pleased.
"I see why Asuna is obsessed with you now..." she divulged casually. I fought the urge to blush.
"That's a strong word... I doubt she is though, not after..." I trailed off into guilty silence. Ashley picked up my chin with her delicate fingers making me face her.
"You know, she still is worried about you. I heard about your little 'stunt' back on the first floor... very admirable, and you have my appreciation," she said and I felt a little better.
"Kirito, do you ever regret your decision?" She asked me genuinely. I scrunched up and tried to formulate an acceptable response. She was talking about that night. Obviously I held regrets, I was only human. But I did it because it was right, not because it was easy. Dumbledore would've said so...
"I... thought it would be best in the long run," I said grudgingly. I couldn't really afford to face her these days without a bit of awkwardness. This was my choice though, so I suppose it didn't affect me as much as it should have...
"I understand," Ashley said and I raised my head up a little hopeful. She gave me endearing eyes and I felt comforted by the intensity of her gaze.
"Just promise me one day, you'll tell her, and face your fears. She told me quite a bit about herself, you know. I met her when she was looking for a tailor to accommodate her with a custom uniform. Girls usually consider fashion important if you haven't picked that up," she joked and I smiled lightly.
"I don't know if you see it, but she's an awful lot like you," Ashley said and I raised an eyebrow in question.
"I don't quite follow..." I said a little skeptical at her comparison.
"Well, for one, you're both quite fond of fighting on the frontlines," she pointed out. Okay, she got me there...
"Two, you're both fighting for someone important," she added smirking at me and I looked to the side, pouting but touched by this revealed fact nonetheless.
"Three, you're trying so hard to prove something, and that's noble, but... I see that you still fail to realize a few flaws in your reasoning... as expected of growing children though..." she said a bit patronizing and I crossed my arms.
"Is that so? And pray tell, what would that be?" I asked in an unconvinced tone. I got sensitive around hearing doubt placed against me, if you don't remember, you must've skimmed a chapter.
"Oh I'm not going to spoil you," Ashley said reproachfully but only halfheartedly so. "You'll have to figure that out on your own," she said waving her finger at me. Figures.
"In any case, you came here for my services, and I intend to please. These materials seem decent enough," she said assessing them again. She then sat down with her arm resting on the windowsill and her chin upon her hand.
"So what did you have in mind?" She asked patiently. I thought about that anteriorly.
"Well, it doesn't have to be fancy... just as good as this, or better if you could," I said taking off my trademark «Coat of Midnight» and presenting it to her. Ashley appraised it and murmured a few comments.
"I see. So like this you say?" She asked me wanting to be sure of my decision. I nodded.
"Yeah, preferably a dark color too," I supplied additionally. Nothing against the rest of the colors of the rainbow, but I liked darker colors because they, I don't know, made me feel more secure?... God, that is a really girly response...
"Hmm, I suppose you'd like it if it was black?" Ashley presumed. I smiled admittedly.
"Yes, please," I replied. She giggled at my formality.
"You know, I'm not THAT much older than you... you could afford to be a little more relaxed..." she said and I felt a little guilty.
"Sorry..." I said shyly. She shook it off.
"No, it's alright... I happen to find it endearing," she said cheerfully. I felt a little less tense when she smiled.
"Do you..." I said quietly. She turned to the materials I had given her. She then asked me to wait downstairs while she brought down her appropriate equipment.
A little later she came back with a mannequin, sewing threads, scissors and so on and so forth. She started to work right away and I was amazed at her competence. It all seemed so graceful and professional. I watched as she measured the lengths expertly and cut away accordingly. It took about 6 hours with her skill but during that time we made pleasant conversation. She asked me about myself and I found myself telling her things I hadn't gotten to tell Asuna... strange, but I guess it was because Asuna was a more complicated matter. I also felt the subconscious need to confide in someone and I guess it just all fell out. I suppose we all need some help from time to time, and Ashley happened to be a good listener for my case.
I told her about my past, starting from when I was young, leading onto now. I don't know, I suppose I felt a kind of sisterly vibe from her. This made me feel guilty about neglecting my own 'sister'. She caught this on my expression and I explained further. After 3 hours or so, I told her more or less all there was to know about me. Of course I didn't intend to disclose all my personal information, I just wanted to give an accurate account of myself to her.
After I fully expressed myself, it was her turn. She told me how she followed after her mother, an equally beautiful woman with exceptionally skill and taste in clothing. However, she reported that her mother's father was adamantly strict and obstinately believed his daughter's 'hobby' was impractical and useless in the real world. After many disputes, Ashley and her mother split off from her grandfather and went to live in the city. Ashley was only 14 when she came into the urban world of Kawagoe City. She also had a little sister, who by now should be a year younger than me. Her mother's father always scolded her on wasting her time on a senseless pursuit of being a seamstress. She argued that a person should be free to make whatever choice they wanted for an occupation because she didn't remember anyone dictating him into becoming a CEO of a company. He countered that the way his daughter was going, no man would ever want to desire her as a housewife and that was the last straw. Ashley confessed that her mother cried after hearing such harsh words but resolutely decided to move away in the end. I felt sympathetic for her and her mother and she expressed her gratitude with a warm smile.
Afterwards, Ashley felt inspired by her mother and decided to follow in her footsteps. Her mother gave her the confidence to pursue her passion and be proud of it. Her sister, in turn, began to admire her sister's devotion and wanted to learn how to become a seamstress as well. They seemed like a happy family, and I felt a little envious.
When she beta tested the game, she invested all her time learning the mechanics of sewing and trying out many materials and designing creative patterns and decorations. She had enjoyed the beta, but like me, had no idea the hammer had yet to drop. When she was teleported to the center plaza, Kayaba's announcement shook her resolve. She grew saddened like many did and felt like giving up. I remembered the first death was not because of getting killed, but because of suicide. Someone who couldn't accept the gravity of the situation decided to try and escape. Needless to say it failed, and yet dozens had followed... but some did it out of madness and that was even more depressing to know.
Ashley had all but given up, but remembered her mother had told her to follow her passion, despite those who may doubt you. She resolved to continue perfecting her sewing skill and by providing everyone with bright, vivid looking clothes to change the scenery and rekindle hope. If she could find a purpose even in this world, it could inspire other people to do the same. I felt honored to get the opportunity to meet Ashley. I guess every little effort counted.
She finally finished modelling my new outfit. She asked me to judge her work and I complied.
"So what do you think?" She asked modestly. I inspected it from the collar to the coattails.
It was a simple design. It was black with a blue stripe on each arm and another two pointed diagonally from the front to the back in a upside down V shape. There was also a yellow crescent on the left side chest area. I slipped into it and it felt smooth and comfortable.
"The outside is the Blue Dragon leather, I dyed most of it black for you," she said and I smiled appreciatively.
"The inside is laced with Silver Stallion Hair to tighten the seams. The smooth coating you feel in the sleeves and throughout the coat is the Arachnid Silk. I hope it's satisfactory?" Ashley asked smiling gently.
"I'd be lying if I said no. It's very impressive," I confessed honestly, eliciting a modest reaction from Ashley who said to stop lavishing her in compliments.
"I'm glad you're happy," she said politely. "Now about the price..." Her expression turned evilly sinister and she gave an innocent smile. I started panicking. Ha ha... right. The price... I gulped.
"How- how much?" I asked anxiously hoping I had saved up enough. Argo warned me about this but I wasn't sure anymore.
"Oh I don't know, maybe half a million Col?... You did say it was 'very impressive', after all..." she said winking at me humorously. I did not feel the amusement whatsoever. But I resigned quickly... a deal's a deal...
"Fine," I said sighing a little dejectedly. I moved my hand to access my funds and opened up a trade menu. I closed my eyes and reached forward to press the 'yes' button when she stopped me.
"Wow. I thought you would put up more of a fight. You took that seriously?" Ashley said smiling a little disbelievingly. I felt really stupid...
"But... I thought you charged high prices," I said perplexed at her remark. She smiled sympathetically and patted me on the head. I felt really indignant and naïve...
"Naturally. But I happen to like you... you're a very special customer..." she said suggestively. I felt my face heat up and started staring at the ground determinedly as though it were the greatest thing since sliced bread.
"So- so- how should I repay you then?" I asked flustered. The apprehension in my voice was all too clear. Ashley seemed to be toying with me.
"I think we can work something out... don't worry. I'll come up with something..." she said dangerously ambiguous. That did not sound good... or maybe it did since I was only an adolescent with raging hormones that I had kept restrained until now. But I slapped myself mentally. NO GOD DAMN IT THINK ABOUT ASUNA.
"Maybe you could..." Ashley said wonderingly.
"I could what..." I asked... hopefully? Oh god...
"Help me find a place to settle down!" She exclaimed figuring out the perfect payment to my debt. Oh... I didn't know whether I felt relieved or disappointed... but I'm pretty sure I got friendzoned...
"Sure..." I said offhandedly. Her eyes brightened and so did her smile.
"Really? You don't have to, I have plenty of other things you could help me around with when I finally find the right place to settle down my business," she said generously. I shook my head with a fake smile.
"No, I insist," I said decisively. She accepted my response and nodded.
"Fair enough," she said. Did she sound... a little disappointed? No, it was probably my imagination... I checked the time. 8:15 PM. Damn, that was pretty late. But I planned on hunting later anyway. I turned to exit the premises.
"Leaving without saying goodbye?" Ashley said hurtfully. I forgot in my haste to leave to give a proper farewell. Embarrassed I turned back.
"Sorry, Ashley. Goodbye and I hope to see you soon," I said respectfully. She smiled nicely but looked like she still had something to say.
"Hmm, I would say the same, but look at the weather..." she said pointing outside and I directed my eyes to the windows. It was pouring hard where the sun was just a few hours ago. Of course it was raining...
"Guess you'll have to stay here, huh?" Ashley suggested. She was hinting at something, that much I could tell. I was suspicious and became wary of what I said next.
"Yeah I guess I'll have to..." I spoke cautiously.
"You'll need a place to sleep then," she pointed out obviously.
"Yeah, I guess I do..." I said quietly.
"Then how about my room?" Ashley offered innocently. I almost started coughing. WHAT?
There was no way I was going to enter a girl's room. Sure, I invited Asuna once to my room, but that was different... This scene was completely incomparable and according to the movies, I didn't like the ending.
"Thanks... but no thanks, I think the floor will do..." I said politely declining. I thought she would consent to my terms, but she started dragging me upstairs when I wasn't looking.
"Oh no, I insist, Kirito-chan..." She said cheerfully as she ignored my protests that were profusely spilling from my mouth.
"You owe me," Ashley said in a threatening manner. I conceded after that...
Oh boy...
Well... how should I say this. It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. But at the same time, it was. Maybe worse.
Nothing scandalous happened if that's what you're wondering... though if you thought so, I was fooled too, quite thoroughly.
Ashley made me try out new dresses that she had kept under wraps until now. Needless to say, cross-dressing is extremely awkward for guys at least. I was forced into several outfits all the while bearing Ashley's comments on how I looked.
"Awww, you wook adorwable..." she said in a baby voice. By now my self esteem was crushed and my pride was mortally wounded. The only consolation was that no one else was here to see this... that would've been the status killer.
Although it was highly mortifying, I have to admit, wearing skirts actually felt comfortable... and with that thought, I was convinced I had lost it.
Fortunately, like all bad things, there was an end. At least for the most case... thankfully this case.
"A job well begun is half done," Ashley said optimistically. I could see no light to this situation though...
"What does that mean?" I asked dryly.
"You've paid up half of your debt," she elucidated. Half? That was half? I couldn't wait for the other part then...
"That sounds promising..." I said sarcastically. I wondered how much more suffering I could endure... honestly I think I'd rather take on a boss single-handedly.
"Don't complain, Kirito-chan, beggars can't be choosers," she said knowingly. I was confused.
"I don't remember begging..." I said quietly.
"Really? Let's say I were to tell Asuna about today..." she smirked devilishly. I became highly distressed and chose to immediately submit to her will. I can't believe I was going to be defeated like this... The Alpha getting conquered without a sword being drawn... apparently this was the day the strength of men failed...
"I get it, I give up," I said despondently. A shame to go out like this, it was almost as though she planned it...
"That's a good Kirito-chan," Ashley said patting my head. Girls are evil...
"You don't have to insult me further..." I muttered bothered by the honorific.
"What are you talking about, I really think you are cute, you just have to loosen up," she said sagely. Loosen up... right.
"You're holding a figurative knife to my throat, how do you expect me to loosen up?" I accused pointing out the foreboding blackmail.
"Tsk tsk. That's exactly what I'm talking about. It's getting pretty late, brush up and get ready for bed," Ashley said in a motherly voice. I can't believe this...
Once the lights were out, I tried to fall asleep on the floor. Ashley would have none of that and dragged me up to her bed.
"Uhh... don't you think this is..." I tried to reason out the proximity of our bodies.
"Romantic?" She interjected and I was taken aback. Romantic? That was the last thing I was thinking about...
"..." Was the only thing I could say as I turned away from her to hide my flustered expression. To no avail was I able to escape though, as she suddenly snaked her arms around me in a vice grip.
"You didn't think you would get away so easily, did you?" She asked rhetorically. I sighed dismally.
"I have to try..." I said crestfallen. She giggled at me.
"Say, you don't bat for the other team, do you?" Ashley asked innocently. I felt my face redden at the inquiry.
"Where did that come from?! No I don't swing that way!" I declared vehemently denying her sudden accusation. She continued to croon at my antics.
"You're so cute when you're angry," she said echoing Argo. Ugh, not this again...
"I'm going to sleep and you can't stop me. Now could you please let go?" I asked bluntly. She declined my request.
"No, you're my pillow Kirito-chan... so soft and cuddly..." she noted moaning comfortably. I facepalmed myself.
"Did you just objectify me?" I whispered incredulously.
"Hmm? Did you say something Kirito-chan?" Ashley yawned. I gave up on trying any further.
"Never mind... it was just the sound of my dignity being demolished and thrown into the fires of hell..." I said morosely.
"That's nice..." she said blissfully.
"You're not even listening..." I said dispirited.
"Can't say I am," she responded truthfully. Ouch...
I sighed miserably. I wanted to stay up late outside risking my life, not being used as a mere pillow...
Oh how the mighty have fallen... I thought deprecatingly.
The next morning I woke up refreshed despite the previous ordeal the other night. I blinked repeatedly to arouse my foggy senses. The clouds beyond the window were light grey and there was a breeze outside. I think I caught a slight ray of sunshine. Well, it was better than yesterday...
I felt something laying on me. I turned to see Ashley lying down on my chest and I almost shouted. Oh right... now I remember...
I didn't want to give her a rude awakening, so I shook her shoulder lightly. She stirred and slowly opened her eyes.
"Morning, pillow-chan..." she said innocently. Oh come on...
"I would appreciate you lay off that nickname..." I said tiredly. She smiled sweetly at me like poisoned honey.
"Would princess-chan be better?" She suggested playfully but I could see the malice in her intentions.
"On second thought, being a pillow is less degrading..." I said rejecting the new nickname.
"Awww... you're shy," she said teasingly.
"Is that a compliment?" I said distastefully.
"It is if you want it to be," she said openly and I sighed for like the nine-thousandth time. She got up from me and offered a hand to pull me up.
"Come on, I'll make breakfast," Ashley said cheerfully. If only all of us could be that upbeat...
After a hearty serving of buttered toast, blueberry muffins, an apple and a glass of milk, I felt revitalized in order to carry out my grinding session today. The boss battle would commence in 3 days. I was ready to leave right after finishing my meal.
"Well, Ashley-san... thanks for everything... I think," I added uncertainly but nonetheless sincere. She waved away my appreciation and smiled.
"Don't die out there, you still have a payment to uphold," she reminded me and I rolled my eyes but nodded.
"Yeah, I'll keep that in mind..." I said making a mental note. She sighed wistfully.
"I'm almost jealous you know," Ashley admitted and I looked at her curiously.
"Why's that?" I asked genuinely.
"Asuna got to meet you first," she said simply and I pretended to be very interested about the weather outside.
"Is- is that right?" I said falteringly. She nodded shamelessly.
"But I suppose we'll meet again... someday..." she said dolefully.
"You make it sound as though I'm leaving forever," I pointed out. She smiled at me mischievously.
"Oh, of course you're not... I know you want to come back for more..." she hinted flirtatiously winking. Something started hurting and it took me only a second to realize it. Perhaps there is one 'monster' that all men can never fight back against...
"You're talking about clothes... right?" I asked abashedly. She smirked so cruelly.
"Take care, Kirito-chan... it was fun while it lasted... and don't be too hard on Argo..." Ashley said humorously. But that revealed the source of this entire mess.
Damn it! I knew something was up... I swear to God I'm gonna hunt her down and give her a piece of my mind! This was not funny, I've never been so embarrassed in my-
"Are you alright, Kirito-chan? You look tense," Ashley asked concernedly. I shook my head and offered a feigned smile.
"It's nothing... I'm just plotting revenge... against a certain someone..." I said darkly. She giggled at my revelation.
"I'm sorry, but Argo kept insisting I play along with her, I didn't mean for it to go this far..." she said remorsefully.
"It's nothing unexpected I guess..." I sighed out.
"If I played with your heart too much, I'm sorry. Hmm, you do look a little tense, perhaps you'd like a massage?" Ashley offered suggestively. "As you may have noticed, being a seamstress is not the only thing I'm good at with my hands..." This was too much... I was mentally headbashing the wall.
"While that is a tempting proposition, I think I'll take a rain check..." I said nervously with my hands up to emphasize my resolution.
"It's your choice," she said fairly. I felt a bit relieved.
"You know, even without Argo's scheming, I still find you quite charming," she admitted. I pulled at my collar in anxiety.
"Oh... thanks I suppose..." I said humbly accepting the compliment.
"Perhaps in a few years, if you're interested..." she alluded alluringly. I felt embarrassed but finally I regained my composure.
"I'm flattered, but... that's kind of unlikely... maybe if Asuna doesn't forgive me," I said objectively. She smiled at me reverently.
"That's so touching," she said admiringly clasping her hands over her heart. I smiled sheepishly.
"I guess I should get going," I confessed intending to maintain my schedule. She crossed the room to hug me tightly which I awkwardly returned, but at least this time she lowered her standing so I wasn't suffocated again. She then pressed a soft kiss on my left cheek. I felt warm and fuzzy but also a bit embarrassed.
"Good luck, Kirito-chan. Make me proud," she said bidding me farewell.
"I will. And I'd appreciate it if you didn't mention this to Argo or Asuna... especially Asuna..." I said fearfully thinking what would happen if she was informed of this. I hoped to God she didn't turn yandere...
"Oh I'm not that mean..." Ashley joked, but I was not entirely convinced.
"Undoubtedly..." I muttered in slight disbelief.
"Before you go, take this too. Consider it a gift," she said as she handed me a second black coat complete with a studded belt. This one was similar to the blue striped coat I wore, which I called 2nd generation Midnight. This additional one was purple striped instead with red star where the yellow crescent should be. Also, instead of a collar, there was a hood with a single stripe leading down the middle. I supposed I would call this one 3rd gen Midnight.
"This one's water-resistant. You know, in case it rains again..." she smirked facetiously. Ha ha... very funny.
"You're spoiling me," I said, but accepted the gift graciously nonetheless.
"You can spoil me next time when we start dating," she jested and I rolled my eyes with a flushed face.
"Uh huh... I look forward to it..." I said dryly.
After that little incident, I could finally get back to being serious. I traveled to the field northwest, which was devoid of other players. I took out my Knightsword and the Anneal and flourished it to regain the feel of handling the weight. I had missed being out alone dual-wielding to my heart's content. As a reunion with my blades, I went on a rampage slaughtering seven-hundred slithering serpents. What a twister.
It was dark when I finished up grinding and the moon gave a radiant glow. Tonight it was waning, and it resembled the crescent on my coat. A good omen? I hoped so.
I collapsed on the soft field of grass and started thinking.
It was about 3 months into this 'game'. January was almost over. I realized I had forgotten about New Year's. But I guess it was only natural... did it matter anymore? I couldn't make any of my resolutions possible anyway... had it finally gotten to me? Ashley had revived my hope, just for a bit. But when I thought about it, I was pathetically so far away from the end.
I wondered if my family had even celebrated New Year's. It'd be weird since I wasn't 'there'. An empty feeling hung in air and filled my chest. There was too much going on, and at the same time, it felt like nothing was happening. I struck the ground in anger. I hadn't noticed myself starting to breathe heavier.
How long would it take? Even if I was still alive, sometimes I thought about giving up and admitting Kayaba had won. This was his world, and I was trapped like a caged bird. What if I finally faced him, and it wouldn't be enough? He held all the cards in his hand, there was no telling what he would do. Do I even have the chance of a fair fight?
"Sugu..." I whispered into the night. Honestly, how much strength did I really have? I had the reason to fight, that much I knew. Save everyone, make up with Asuna, reunite with my family, right? What else did I have to stress out about? But then I realized, at the end I wouldn't be the same. I was afraid, and that made me weak, even though I tried not to show it. It was the fear of not knowing. How far was I willing to go? Did I really want the end to come so bad? I thought about the future, and I wished none of this happened in the first place.
Is this how Kayaba destroyed lives? Engendering fear and doubt that caused insanity? Maybe it was a byproduct of his god-centric plan, but I recognized the unintended effects. I started to question what I was doing. I tried to replace my weakness with anger and vengeance, but that made it worse. Honestly, killing Kayaba would be his rightful comeuppance, but escaping was what I really wanted. Was I just misplacing my true desires?
Then a new thought entered my mind. What if I didn't want to escape? That sounded ridiculous, but slowly fear crept on me. This was why I was trapped in the first place. An ironic twist of fate, which was, when I tried to escape one world, I ended up trapped in another... Reality against the virtual world... didn't I admit I felt more alive here? Wasn't I just getting what I wanted? What I asked for?
Before I could go on wondering whether I deserved my life sentence or not, I suddenly got the impression someone was watching me. I kipped up to my feet and «Searched» the area. There was figure with a hood watching me. As soon as I got sight of the perpetrator, they started running away toward the forest.
"HEY! Who are you?!" I called out loudly chasing after them. They did little to respond except quickening their pace even further.
Damn, those are quick feet! I thought grudgingly impressed. If they were running like that, there was something worth hiding then.
I exerted all my effort into pursuing the fleeing target and started catching up. Unexpectedly, the person stopped, partially covered in the shadow of the forest. I thought I would have to chase them a bit further, but I was thankful for a respite.
"Who are you?" I reiterated my question. I couldn't make out the features but I saw a pale face. Perhaps it was the moon though. A few seconds passed and the person didn't respond. I slowly drew my hand to the Knightsword on my back. Finally the person spoke.
"Your sister would miss you, and it'd be your fault for giving up. Do you really want that?" The mysterious person asked. I froze up. I'm pretty sure I wasn't speaking aloud, so how did this person know about me? Were they closely eavesdropping on me and Ashley?
"No, I don't... just how exactly do you know that?" I demanded suspiciously.
"It doesn't matter how I know... it just matters what you do,"said the enigmatic person. What I did? Now that I listened closer to the voice, was that-
A bright flash illuminated the darkness for a split second, and I was blinded momentarily. When I blinked again to refocus my sight, the person had disappeared.
Fuck... I wanted a real answer, I thought bitterly. I considered what the unknown person had said.
"My sister would miss me..." I repeated. After I had calmed down, I realized the verisimilitude to these words. I regained my resolve and all diffidence left my mind.
"I guess I have to keep fighting to find out," I concluded. That was what I felt truly. I hoped it would be worth it.
The 10th floor boss meeting took place in the afternoon. Kirito-kun walked in late with a pensive expression.
Tomorrow would be the battle to clear this floor. Being the tenth time we performed this, everyone was intimately familiar with the processions. We were at the city hall of the town. It was filled with at least a hundred players. After greetings were exchanged the talk began.
I was paying attention but my mind kept wandering on a more pressing matter. Some trouble had happened between a few players. Something about stealing and soon enough a fight broke out. It was mediated with no serious harm, but there seemed to be grudges instilled in those involved. Idiots.
In a situation like this, fighting among ourselves was counterproductive, and yet somehow it had happened. That was bad for order, and weakened unity. As a result of my personal concerns, I asked to investigate this matter privately requesting permission from Heathcliff. He agreed without so much as a nod and said he trusted my judgement. That sounded oh so familiar from a certain black-clad person...
The meeting went by relatively smooth. As soon as it was over, Kirito snuck out the door. I wanted to pursue him, but I had matters to attend to. I dived into the crowding masses and found one of the participants of the incident. I proceeded to question him until I was satisfied.
Apparently the person he disputed with had stole something from him and refused to give it back. After a while, he was provoked when one of the perpetrator's accomplices shoved him to the ground and pulled out a knife. It was a safe zone, so no real damage was done, but it was still a problem.
This was highly distressing and I decided to get some supplementary info from Argo. She was residing at the local bar when I tracked her down.
"So, what does the royal sub-commander of KoB want from me? My record's clean, I swear!" The smaller girl joked. I narrowed my eyes to signal I had no time for frivolity.
"Do you have any leads on recent disputes among players?" I asked curtly. Argo sighed tiredly.
"You too? Gosh, Kii-bou asked me the same thing..." Argo revealed and my curiosity was piqued slightly.
"Well?" I asked impatiently.
"I actually don't know, cause I really don't care. It doesn't concern me, you see, and it doesn't concern you either. You shouldn't worry about it, it's not as though it's a real problem..." Argo reasoned out. Realistically speaking, she was right. But I was an idealist so I wouldn't agree.
"Thanks for being helpful," I said sarcastically and turned to leave. Argo called out to me before I left though.
"Kirito had a feeling you'd be looking for answers, so he paid me to tell you this: 'be careful'," Argo said simply. I rolled my eyes but inside I was touched at the thought.
"Tell him he wasted that money then," I replied shortly. I didn't mean that, but he kind of deserved that for such a trivial expenditure.
"Hey wait up! You didn't pay me!" She complained. I left her hanging. How shallow of her.
We approached the boss doors. I chanced a glance over at Kirito. He was sporting a new coat and wielding his Knightsword. I wondered where he got the new outfit. The blue stripes gave his outward appearance a bit of a refreshment.
Then I realized it appeared as though I was checking him out so I turned away slightly flushed.
After the obligatory speech from Heathcliff, the doors were pushed in and the boss room came into sight.
It was covered with multiple shades of green. There were also surprisingly columns placed on the battlefield with holes in the ground and dens. Surrounding the circular area was a river of water, probably twenty-feet deep and ten-feet wide. This was unusual for a boss fight and I was apprehensive about the impending battle.
Suddenly we all froze. Literally.
The boss appeared with a hiss, slithering out to us. «King Basilisk» was the name and it was a pretty faithful rendition of the legend. Dark, forest green scales and venomous yellow eyes. Fangs of sharp demise and a flickering tongue of mockery as it played with its prey.
Had this been the real Basilisk in the legends, we would've all been wiped out immediately, but upon meeting its gaze, we all simply froze. I struggled to resist the effects and agonizingly reached for my sword. Modelling the boss completely after the original Basilisk would be overpowered. As much as I hated to admit it, this was at least slightly more fair than getting killed on sight. Kayaba at least gave us that much of a chance.
As the serpent's head turned to a specific target, I felt the immobilization lift. I quickly drew out my sword and took cover behind a pillar. Those who had been unfrozen followed my lead. Unfortunately, we heard a shattering sound effect, and one casualty was confirmed. I prayed for the fallen frontliner.
Heathcliff had somehow anticipated the boss and raised his shield to cover his line of sight. He moved to a strategic position in front to provide cover for everyone and soon his fellow shield members fell into place beside him.
This was when the boss took advantage of the specially designed arena. It intertwined its body with the pillars and moved around above us. It didn't help that its speed was remarkably quick and soon another player got swiped up in its jaws. What a predator.
I looked around for Kirito. He was nowhere to be seen. I knew he wouldn't run, so he must've had a plan. I prayed it would work, for all our sakes.
I never expected to encounter this type of opponent. Okay, it was pretty obvious it was going to be a snake, but a Basilisk? Kayaba sure was inventive...
As soon as I got unfrozen I covered myself with the «Cloak of Midnight». I started thinking and managed to improvise a plan. The greatest advantage this beast had was its eyes. I'd have to risk an eye for an eye so to speak. Unfortunately, since there was no phoenix to fly in and gouge out its eyes, I would have to do this manually.
I've never gone bronc riding. Let's see how fun it is... I thought less hopefully.
The boss kept on sliding around everywhere using its environment to its advantage. It had chomped up 3 more unsuspecting people in rapid transitions around the field. Clever girl... or guy, whatever the gender was... I just wanted to say that line once...
I decided the high ground was the best shot I had to killing this thing. I started grabbing the vines around a pillar and climbed up to about 50 feet in the air. I started to feel nauseous from vertigo...
I didn't have to wait long for the serpent to burst out of the water and start slithering to find more prey. I timed my jump while pulling out my sheathed blade. As I fell dramatically, the Cloak fell off and disappeared to my inventory while I pulled out my Anneal, grasping it in my left hand. I landed on the Basilisk's head simultaneously stabbing both its eyes in reverse grip. Fuck yeah, double kill. Well, not exactly, but you get the point.
Enraged and injured, the boss started shaking wildly and I almost fell off if I hadn't gripped my swords embedded in its eye sockets. It then proceeded to give me a free ride around the battlefield like a carousel on steroids. Needless to say, it was quite a ride, but not that kind of ride...
Its health had decreased by 40% of a bar just for taking out the eyes. I'd have to remember that for future reference. As I continued to swerve around the place with my new best friend, the rest of the frontliners managed to take random hits at its underbelly, slowly decreasing its health into the red zone. I got plunged underwater a few times, resurfacing moments later soaked. I'm pretty sure I caught a few people smirking at me, but this time it seemed less hostile. I suppose the image was pretty amusing... for a spectator.
Ugh... I thought to myself. Can you throw up in SAO?... I certainly felt like it. I never went to amusement parks often, but this was better and yet more terrifying than anything I had ever been on. Roller coasters, meet your maker...
I spent a straight 20 minutes being thrown around, but the thought of my sister kept me from letting go. It was breaking my tolerance level though...
"GOD DAMN IT! WOULD YOU- GRRR- STOP- AHHH- JERKING- WOAH- AROUND? YOU-" I didn't get to finish that sentence when the Basilisk gave a particularly violent thrash whipping in a new direction and I temporarily loss my grip on the Anneal and punched myself in the jaw. Oww... that shit actually hurt... perhaps because I hadn't taken a real hit in a long time. I was getting frail... not good. Better hit the gym next month...
"Oh you're a fucking douchebag aren't you?" I directed at the serpentine asshole. "I'll have your lizard head on a spike..."
The Basilisk had me cornered so I had no choice but to stand my ground. It was charging blindly at a pillar and there was no time to dodge so I braced myself with the strongest «Linear» I could muster up.
As I stabbed the sword through its mouth, the tip stuck out of its head and it immediately burst into thousands of blue shards. However, before it died, it crashed into the pillar and sent Kirito on top flying with his swords held stubbornly in his hands. He slid near the edge almost taking a plunge and submerging once again into the cold water. I rushed over to him on instinct, ignoring the rest who were gathered here.
"Kirito! Kirito!" I shouted once I reached him and kneeled down to his level. He coughed up some water, and rolled over to face me. Painfully it seemed, he struggled to open his eyes which seemed to be spinning out of focus. That must've been beyond dizzying...
"How many fingers am I holding up?" I asked him seriously, while raising 4 fingers, excluding the thumb. He gave me a disoriented but questioning look like I was his kindergarten teacher asking what was one plus one.
"A few..." he answered slightly delirious. I sighed but smiled lightly at the same time. Technically that was correct, so I supposed it was close enough.
"Glad to see you're in check. Good thing you didn't die," I jested darkly. "Would've hurt our chances at getting out of this place," I gestured at the arena, but implied the entirety of Aincrad.
"I'm glad you care," he responded mirthlessly. I got up and started walking away. Then I turned around and threw a health potion at him.
"Unfortunately, yes I do. I would also like to request you stop being a hypocrite," I added briskly which raised his confusion. "You're one to tell me to be careful..." I said smirking disbelievingly. He scoffed at hearing his own advice and quickly brushed it off. After surveying the damage, I decided to rejoin my guild and head to eleventh floor.
On the way upstairs, I checked my Last Attack Bonus item. «Snakebiter» was the name, and it was a sea green color. It was another sword with a handle designed with a snake wrapped around it and an engraved serpent on both sides of the blade. The hilt also comprised of a snake head opening its mouth as though the sword was its tongue. Fancy. I read the description.
This blade has more 'bite' than the average sword and is made of adamant infused with a Basilisk's fangs, melted and poured into the hollow insides to give the sword a poisonous essence. A clean cut will make the victim vulnerable to the effects of Basilisk venom, and will continuously decrease health and create rapid fatigue. The only cures to this effect are antivenom potions and Phoenix Tears. Note: Don't cut yourself.
After finishing my perusal of the details, I refocused on keeping in march with my guild.
I continued lying down for about 5 minutes to recover homeostasis from the turbulence I had just put myself through. After finally regaining my senses, I walked to the next floor unsteadily, but surely. I needed to remind myself to never do that again...
The next main settlement was called «Taft». I assumed the «Teleport Gate» was already connected to the rest of the floors so I continued to search for a place to stay. I really needed the rest...
I felt myself sliding in and out of focus so I decided to sit down on a stone bench. As I rested, I took in the sights.
It was southern European styled, with stone floor streets. Most of the buildings weren't taller than two stories, and there was a cathedral with iron doors. A look in the distance revealed a bell tower and when I listened closely, I could hear water running. There must've been a drain or something under a bridge. There was a large main street as well.
The place looked friendly enough. It was getting late in the day and I could see the sun falling. I grew sleepy and couldn't resist losing my balance. As I lost consciousness, I felt someone catch me.
I don't know how long it was, but I still felt tired when I woke up. I didn't get up immediately, fuck that, it takes a lot to just wake up alone... I struggled to lift my eyelids which felt like weights. My blurry vision revealed the inside of a house. The paint color was yellow and butter pecan. I was on a sofa with my sword removed from my back. If I wasn't worn out as hell, that would've alarmed me enough to jump up in alert wariness. But I supposed if the perpetrator were to kill me, they would've done it already. My head was on something soft, then I heard a noise that made me become slightly more aware of my surroundings. Was this a pillow?... or...
I rolled my head back to look at the ceiling. Or at least I intended to when something obstructed my line of sight. Someone rather...
"Is that... you, Asuna?..." I said haphazardly guessing that was whose lap I was resting in.
"Yeah, you wish," said the real Asuna standing by the doorway. She looked rather upset for some reason. Wait... if that was Asuna, then who?...
"Evening, Kirito-chan," said Ashley with a cheerful voice and a lopsided grin.
"Oh no..." I muttered disdainfully but without completely meaning it. She pouted and pretended to be hurt.
"Well that's no way to treat a friend... I thought we had something special, Kirito-chan... I mean I 'opened' up to you..." she said suggestively winking at the double entendre. I blushed unintentionally and practically felt Asuna fuming with anger. I gave Ashley a pleading look that purely stated, 'Please don't say shit that will get me killed'. She smiled innocently at me, as though she was unaware of the looming danger.
"Excuse me?" Asuna asked dangerously. She had scary eyes and a dark expression. I could almost see the demonic shadowy glow and emanating evil aura. I'm glad she wasn't a boss...
"Ashley-was-just-kidding!" I said quickly to clarify the ambiguous sentence. I hoped she would believe me. "We're just friends," I said resolutely. Asuna looked unconvinced however...
"Hmph. I bet you say that to all the girls..." she accused harshly. My spirits fell substantially. What exactly had I done to deserve this?...
"Uhh... no I don't. I mean," I said counting my fingers. "I know, what, 3 girls? I'm don't really consider Argo a 'friend', so yeah," I said reasonably. I also hoped Argo would never find out I said that. I didn't mean it... she was my friend... on certain days.
"Whatever..." Asuna said deliberately not looking at me. I sighed. I've got a really long way to go.
"Asuna, honey, loosen up. I was just kidding," Ashley admitted in my defense.
About time you said that... I thought bitterly and Asuna's expression lightened up in relief.
"I mean, your 'friend' is very cute, but I'm already working on your wedding dress," she said a matter-of-factly. "I hope you guys have a great honeymoon!"
At that moment Asuna refused to stay any longer and mumbled something about reporting in and ran off. I caught a glimpse of her expression and it was of the uttermost embarrassment, with cheeks redder than a rose. That was on fire. Inside the sun. I clasped my hands in prayer for somebody listening to my desperate call of need.
"I thought that went well," Ashley said casually while stroking my head gently. I rolled my eyes at the joke with the greatest disbelief.
"I'm never forgiving you, Ashley..." I threatened distastefully. She gave a pretend look of being confounded.
"Whatever do you mean?" She asked teasingly. I gave her a tired expression.
"Quit it, fun's over," I said dryly. She pouted but relented to my request. I sighed and hoped this would die over the next few days.
"You know, when you fell unconscious, she came to visit you," Ashley revealed to me and my attention was caught. "I called her over because I thought she might like to know of your condition."
"All things considered, I think it would've been better if I hadn't woken up..." I said bitterly in hindsight. Ashley smiled sympathetically at me. Oh now you're sorry...
"A hero's gotta suffer sometimes," she said knowledgeably. I supposed that was true... to an extent.
"You didn't have to torture me like that though..." I said hurtfully. She patted my head like I was a lost puppy.
"I'm only messing with you because I like you," she said truthfully and if not for the current situation I would've been flattered.
"That's a funny way of showing it..." I countered. Do girls really act that mean to guys they liked?...
"Touché," Ashley confessed. "But I think it's best if you rest for now," she added. "We don't want you in poor condition, now, do we?"
"But-" I began to complain, but my argument was silenced by Ashley's cossetting as she pulled me in and held me tight.
"Hush, baby Kirito-chan, mama's here," she addressed me lovingly. I was really confused on what kind of affections she had for me.
"I don't want to be cuddled..." I said resiliently. She paid no heed to me however. I sighed inwardly.
Another long night... I thought exhausted. I decided to just fall asleep. Before I did I looked outside at the weather.
Of course it's raining...
I won't bore you with the details of the 11th floor boss since it was relatively easy to conquer. Suffice it to say the frontliners and myself encountered a giant strapped with multiple armaments and heavy armor. Formidable at first glance, but at a second closer look, the opponent was slow enough that even a cactus-brain like Kibaou could've dodged his attacks. The battle ended within 10 minutes, however, due to my complacency during the fight, I let someone else slip in and steal the LA bonus. I suppose I deserved that, but I didn't really care. I had enough gear to get by with.
The twelfth floor was very... square-like. By that I mean the houses were organized neatly into even dimensions, and pretty much everything was a square or shaped similarly to that. Square doors, square windows, square fountains, square trees, square people... wait... okay, that was a bad joke but you know, be there or be square, right?... Ha ha... never mind.
In any case, within 4 days that floor was also cleared. The boss was... porky. And by that I meant it was a giant pig. No bullshit. It had demonically curved horns, blackened skin, and red eyes. A cliché color scheme that was never done before...
And with that battle being won, we moved on to the thirteenth floor. I should also mention that I had failed to obtain the LA bonus drop that time too... but I was so amazing it didn't matter.
The 13th floor was... odd. The general layout of the area was comparable to something out of a western movie with an abandoned town where the cowboy rode in to investigate cause he was stranded. Then he met some bad guys, fucked shit up, and got together with the girl like any other predictable ending. Needless to say, that wasn't the case. There was something strange about this place though... the grim grey gravel setting must've been getting to me. Still, I couldn't shake the feeling off...
I stayed in a rented room for a few days. I turned my schedule nocturnal and slept in the day, emerging out at night to grind relentlessly. I was now level 40. 10 skill slots were available to me and I had filled them all.
On another note, this time I was wiser in managing my time, despite my peculiar sleeping habits. I stopped to stare at the sunset every once in a while outside my window on the second floor. I still had a strange inkling in my head that wouldn't leave me alone. What was it?
I messaged Argo to arrange a meeting at the local bar. Why was it always a bar? None of us even drank... well... speaking for myself, I had no idea what Argo did after I left... then again, if she did drink maybe that would explain her eccentricity... by the way, never let a girl hear that, or she will personally beat you.
I arrived early as always and awaited for Argo to show up. The drinks were too suspicious-looking for my taste, and discouraged me from ordering. I wonder where Argo was...
...And speak of the devil, there she was. As she opened the door and entered I noted she had actually made it on time. Well, a few seconds off the exact time, but I guess I shouldn't complain about the results. An improvement is still an improvement.
After she settled in, I offered to buy her a drink. She smiled sweetly at my gesture for courtesy.
"Aww, that's so nice of you, Kii-bou... trying to get lucky?" she teased. I sighed disdainfully.
What the fuck, why didn't this game have a mute button? Or at least a filter setting, preferences, anything... I thought exasperated.
"I'm not here to trade meaningless words," I said unfriendly. "I'm here on important bus-"
"Yeah, I'll have a Long Island Iced Tea, extra long, with lime please," Argo called at the NPC bartender. I blinked in stunned silence. They have that?!
"..." Was the only thing I could say. I'm not going to even bother...
After her drink arrived and I paid upfront, I refocused my attention to why I called her out in the first place.
"Any freelance jobs on the market?" I asked. "It also wouldn't hurt if you had info on the recent LA bonus drops," I added with a hint of subtlety.
"Hmm... let's see..." Argo pondered sipping on a straw at her highly alcoholic beverage while consulting a list. How the hell does she multitask like that?...
"Well, there are a few available... you could deliver these supplies to the orphanage on the 1st floor, always good to help out a needy cause... there's a request for a bodyguard back on the 6th floor, paranoid guy... that'll last 3 weeks though, but here's one! Hmm, wait, never mind that's illegal..." Argo muttered the last suggestion. I raised my left eyebrow in confused suspicion.
It's probably better not to ask... I thought reflectively. I sighed blatantly unsatisfied.
"Okay. Let's list a few key terms. Legal, lucrative, and somewhat worthwhile so I don't end up wasting time..." I stated with annoyance explicit in my voice. Argo gave me a smirk.
"You could always help out Ashley-sama, I'm sure she would 'reward' you finely..." she said jokingly. I was about to kill her.
"Shut up... and that was not funny," I declared at my irritating excuse for a business associate. How was I even friends with this girl?...
"Alright, I get it. You're pissed off. I would've thought though, you being guy and all, that maybe..." Argo suggested never missing the chance to pester me. I gave her a maliciously mean stare with the equivalent of a Basilisk. She backed off and finally got serious again.
"Fine... I suppose you could take this one. All you have to do is-"
"Shh!" I said suddenly. I was getting an extremely bad vibe out of the blue. There was something wrong in the midst... then I saw it. A cloaked person slipping out the door.
Is that... no, could it be the same person?... I wondered narrowing my eyes. Argo looked thoroughly confused and a bit miffed about being cut off.
"I'm waiting..." She said impatiently rude. I rolled my eyes. Well, ignorance is bliss...
"Never mind, I thought I saw someone..." I passed off impassively.
"Anyways, there's one job that pays pretty well, and I'd say it's interesting enough. Apparently, there's a guild seeking a provisional substitute because one member who's temporarily incapacitated with an ailment. Probably it's because they're sick in the real world. I guess it sucks to have a problem and not be able to do anything about it..." Argo sympathized.
I scoffed at the idea of working with a guild. No thanks, but for some reason, I felt inclined to ask for specifics.
"Do you happen to know the name of this guild?" I asked unconcernedly.
"Yeah, I do. Let's see... Fury-Kazi?... Fuhrer-kaiser?... uhm... oh wait Fuurinkazan! That's it!" Argo said after jumbling the word. My expression dropped into a conflicted state of mind.
Klein's guild? Now there's no way I'm going... I thought initially. But as I mulled it over, my resolve changed.
I suppose it can't hurt... but for business, and that's it, I decided ultimately. Maybe I should use a hood, too... saves me the trouble.
"I suppose that'll do. Where are they?" I asked indifferently.
"Back on the last floor," Argo supplied. "Would've been this one, but they stopped to take care of the sick guy."
"I see... thanks for info," I said and stood to leave. After I unceremoniously tossed a bag of money at her and approached the exit, Argo called out to me.
"You should be careful," Argo heeded and I turned back with a skeptical expression. She looked serious, but I just shook it off.
"What are you, my mother?" I asked inconsiderately and turned to leave.
"A few players have died recently," she informed me genuinely sounding concerned for my well being.
"Yeah, who hasn't?" I responded darkly. She persisted urgently however.
"It's rumored but... they say it was an actual killing," Argo stated dramatically. I narrowed my eyes in cold calculation. "You know what I mean, Kirito. 'Actual' as in involving one player onto another... and from what I heard, they did it without getting a scratch or apprehended."
Truthfully, I wasn't really worried about what would happen to me if I ran into this suspected threat. I was more concerned about the unknown person or persons' intentions. Well, if it happens, it happens, and I'll deal with it.
"Thanks for caring," I told Argo at least somewhat appreciatively. Then I cast myself outside into the welcoming darkness.
Murder... I thought ponderously.
So I'm not the only threat out there... I considered carefully. I reevaluated the current predicament.
Someone out there knew about my personal agenda. Someone else out there was killing other people. I wasn't that surprised on the latter, player-killing was going to happen eventually. Still... it was horrible to think some people had finally stooped that low, especially in a world like this... I weighed my options.
Who was I going to pursue first? Who was the bigger threat? All things were going to come clear... someday and somehow. I only had yet to decide how it would affect me... possibly forever. I addressed both matters with a single question.
Who are you?... Of course, sooner or later, that would not be my only question.
A/N And finally I wrap up this chapter! Damn... Well, what'd you think? Good? Bad? Took too long? Well, whatever the case, thanks for reading. Now to address a few things. Don't worry, I will introduce all the characters you want to see, it'll just take time. Second, I've decided to break this story into 'arcs', which means you haven't even gotten to the good part. Third, I welcome any suggestions to the story, just in case I run short of ideas, even though that is highly unlikely for someone of my caliber(jk). I may or may not take your considerations into account so don't be disappointed or offended but if I do implement it, I will credit you. In any case, I hope you enjoyed this lengthy chapter. Please R & R~
