Alpha, Not Beta

by Kandescent Shades

He was flawed, most definitely, but he was still innocent before he entered SAO. After 10,000 people are trapped within a virtual death game, if he wants to return to his former life, he must fight on. His name was Kirito, and in order to survive, he must adapt. They say selfishness and arrogance is unbecoming of a person... however, that might be the only way to escape...

10. Advent

A/N Hi guys! I realize it's been a while since an update, I guess that might be the rate I'm going at. Regrettable, but I'm trying my hardest to balance out school, my friends, and everything else. I hope to pick up the speed if I can, but it'll depend on how much work I have. Anyways, thanks for all those who have read the entire story so far. I appreciate the mostly positive reception from you guys. Still, I'm going to address a few things. I don't want to go off on a tangent so let me summarize a response: I realize this fic is not perfect. I get it. I will try to hear out any valid points my readers have and I'll admit there have been some. Still, I did not write this story to tailor every one of your personal tastes. If you have a discrepancy with the story, that's fine. There are plenty of other stories to read if you don't like mine. That's all I have to say. Back to the story, how is it so far? Tell me in the reviews, if you would be kind enough, and I know everyone says it, but try to refrain from saying 'please update soon' or something around those lines. I know, I get it already. Including me, we all want it to get updated. I'd rather a fair, honest, polite review on how the story's going than something I hear every other update. An actual review helps me improve upon the story, whether I like hearing the criticism or not. Anyways, 4 chapters left until the next arc. Happy reading~

I didn't get much sleep, but I felt better than I had in quite a long while. I awoke at about 5 almost 6 in the morning. The sun hadn't come up, but I felt sunlight illuminate the dark room from within. I slowly opened my eyes to a welcoming sight. I smiled slightly, but it was the most genuine one I had given in a long time.

Asuna.

She was still asleep, resting upon the left side of my chest with her hand pressed against my heart. Kawaii...

I didn't want to wake her, but I had to eventually. I still had much to do, and much to worry about. The catharsis earlier took it out of me and her. We kind of ran out of oxygen after a heated session of kissing but it was heartwarming. We fell asleep after wishing each other good night. Well... it would be a good night for one of us at least.

I continued wondering if it was the right choice to divulge everything I had been holding back. Now that Asuna knew everything, did it really make things better? I guess it did in a way, but I couldn't help thinking of bad scenarios and outcomes. Still, progress is progress.

I shook her shoulder gently. She woke up gradually from the arousal. I never took note closely, but she was very cute when she yawned.

"Morning, sunshine," I addressed affectionately. She gave me the most endearing smile which lit up my world. I would never forget that smile.

"Morning, Kirito-chan," she replied sweetly. I rolled my eyes lightheartedly, but smiled back.

"It's too early for teasing," I complained softly. She smirked at me playfully.

"Oh? Does that mean you surrender?" She quipped back smartly. I refrained from retorting.

"I'm not surrendering... I'm temporarily conceding," I declared defensively. She gave me a sympathetic look which I was partially annoyed with.

"Oh it's all a matter of semantics..." she said but nevertheless let the teasing die out. Thank god for that...

"Did you sleep well?" I asked politely. She nodded in reply.

"Better than I have in a while," she admitted truthfully.

"That's good," I responded accepting her statement. Then I tried to word my next sentence carefully.

"Listen. I know it's really soon but-"

"-You have to leave again. Taking care of business. Without... without risking my safety," Asuna supplied for me. There was no other way around it, so I nodded solemnly.

"I feel bad that we just made up and I have to go away immediately, but you understand. I'd much rather stay with you, but obligation comes first. I think we'd advance the frontlines further if we split up and work from separate ends. You're sub-commander of the highest-ranked guild. You have the most influence on the general public. I trust you can handle leading the people," I said honestly and she nodded hesitantly.

"What about you?" She asked concernedly. I brushed her hair back to organize it slightly. I stroked it fondly and let my gaze fall silent and serious.

"I'm going to be working with a... an associate. A trusted one. While I'm taking care of that, I'm going to try and unite the betas and non-betas together. Not in public of course, but I'll attempt to change peoples' minds on working as a whole unit. That's our best shot. It'll take time but, if I do it right, then it'll be worth it," I concluded my suggested endeavor. Asuna gave me an encouraging smile that relieved my discomfort and lightened my doubts.

"I think that's a noble plan," she said caressing my cheek. She stared intently into my eyes. "You've really grown... arrogant, but still you're much more mature than when I met you. I think my faith was well-placed," she confessed happily.

"I won't let you down, Asuna. I know what'll it take, and I can do it. Just... don't worry. It'll be alright... in the end. And when it's finished we can forget about all that..." I promised her dearly. I grasped her hands tightly with my own. "I know you'll find your own way, even when I'm not there. Deal?"

"Deal. Do what you have to, but be safe. I really do want you to stay..." Asuna professed openly. "But since you can't, hurry up and come back," she said with an expectant smile. I gave one in return.

"I will. There's no doubt about it. Because every time I stop and wonder, I'll be thinking about you. For now though, don't let those emotions get in the way. Remember your responsibility. That's what's best for us all," I stated sternly. She nodded in confirmation.

"I understand. I just hope it won't take too long..." she added wistfully. I squeezed her hand gently.

"Think of it this way. There's an amazing reward at the end of the rainbow," I hinted at encouragingly. She smiled and raised her eyebrows.

"Oh really? And what would that be?" She asked jokingly. I whispered something in her ear.

She blushed heavily and punched me lightly on the shoulder.

"Oh shut up... that's embarrassing..." she murmured shyly. I smirked at her playfully.

"Why not? I think you'd look adorable," I offered cajolingly. She rolled her eyes.

"I don't cosplay..." She persisted refusing to yield.

"Asuna, if you cosplay for me, I'll make you the happiest girl in the world," I said seriously enough to make her face redden once again.

"What does that even mean?..." She voiced under her breath. I smirked.

"Whatever you want it to mean..." I suggested and she shook her head flushed.

"Don't you have something to do? Something productive, perhaps?" She said trying to shake it off. I sighed openly but complied.

"Right. Well, I'm on my way then. Don't miss me too much," I added and she rolled her eyes lightheartedly.

"That won't be hard to do..." She remarked offhandedly. Ouch. That was kinda harsh... The Flash strikes again...

"Hey, Asuna?" I said as I got up and walked towards the door looking back over one last time before I set out. She returned my gaze purposefully.

"Yeah?" She asked inquisitively.

"I'm glad I got to meet you," I stated simply. She smiled beautifully and walked over to give me tender embrace which I returned with equal passion. I gave her a brief kiss on the lips. I held her around the waist and she held me around my neck.

"I'm glad too. Just for now though, business first. Right?" She asked me for confirmation. I nodded with a bittersweet smile.

"You're taking this very professionally. That's good. I trust you'll do what's right. I just hope I can do the same..." I mused quietly. She pulled me closer for one last hug.

"I know that you've made mistakes. I know you're afraid of responsibility, but you're not alone anymore. I'm here for you, like you always have been for me. I have faith that you'll do the right thing," Asuna ascertained me.

"Thank you... for everything," I expressed to her. She smiled lovingly.

"Same. Make me proud, Kirito-kun," she said and I nodded.

As soon as I left the house, I felt a sudden throbbing pain in my head.

"Ahhh... what the hell?" I exclaimed surprised. I rubbed my head cautiously inspecting it. The pain was gone as soon as it came.

It must've been stress... yeah, probably just from stress, I mused dismissively. I proceeded to head onto my destination.

---

I waited for awhile leaning against a tree. I could see the town of «Raptoria» in the distance. It wasn't long until he finally decided to show up.

He seemed to have a lot on his mind. I guess I couldn't blame him for that. But now was the moment I had been waiting for. I just hoped he gave the answer I was expecting.

As soon as he came into proximity I walked in front of his path. He stopped and gave me a nod of acknowledgement. We fell into line walking together in synchronization. I led our direction alongside the forest, partially sidetracking the main route. I broke the ice and started the conversation.

"So how are you?" I addressed politely asking for his condition.

"Fair enough, I suppose. What about you, Violet?" He asked in return.

"Busy. But I suppose most of us are. It's been rough, you know. I heard about the 25th floor..." I trailed off. His darkening expression revealed the pent up negativity inside. I didn't press further.

"Don't beat yourself up. You did what you could. No one has the right to blame you for trying..." I attempted to console him but it was difficult with his hardened expression.

"No. You're wrong. If I was really so righteous, I would've done something sooner. Even though you told me in advance, I still failed... I let that happen..." Kirito said dejectedly. His disgust against his own actions was so disregarding it made me cringe in pity.

"You know, no one expects you to be perfect. You can't predict everything that happens in life. When those types of things happen, you have to make a choice. I respect the fact that you have the resolve to do so. So chin up already," I conveyed hopefully to brighten his mood. This had little effect however as he resolutely kept a hard expression. I sighed.

"If you really feel so bad about blaming yourself, don't. If you want someone to blame, blame it on me. I let you know in advance after all..." I tried to convince him. He gave me a slightly appreciative glance.

"Thanks but no thanks. This is my fault for not being good enough. As Alpha, I should've taken responsibility sooner. I should've told everyone else about the 25th floor prior to the accident," he said like a Samaritan.

"And in the process draw suspicion to yourself..." I answered coldly. He grew silent and moody.

"I'm only telling you what would've happened... I mean, a beta-tester giving out that kind of information? Even if it proved helpful, they would question you further. More specifically, where you got your information from. Argo is the only accepted beta info broker. No offense, but I don't think everyone would be won over by your boyish charms alone. The wound's gotten too deep to heal. Your sacrifice back on the 1st floor was a misinterpreted gesture. You'd be surprised at how long people can hold a grudge. No, instead of appreciating your help, they would hate you for not doing everything for them," I voiced a little vehemently. I could see the message sinking into his head. Still, his countenance held guilt.

"You make a pretty good argument, but I can't just get over it like that. I have to make up for it somehow..." he argued back. I sighed at his denial.

"Kirito, people are just naturally selfish. No matter how much you give and give, it won't be enough. You made your choice back on the 1st floor. It is unlikely that they'll ever truly trust you. Your 'return' on the 25th floor more than solidified their reasons not to trust you. You, in a sense, betrayed them. I'm sorry, but in spite of everything you've done for them, eventually they will hate you. Nothing more, nothing less. People would hate to admit they were wrong about you."

He didn't say anything in response and mulled it over in a resentful silence. Finally he spoke.

"If what you say is true, then why are you helping me? There must be something in it for you, right? You wouldn't really help me out of the kindness of your heart if people are truly 'naturally selfish'. As matter of fact, it was you, wasn't it? Back on the 20th floor. Klein couldn't have the spine to carry out my plan, but you did. You toppled the building and made an opening for me to finish the boss. It was you who did it, but you knew I wouldn't have died. You knew I had «Mecha Exo» even though I never used it before then. All of this happened basically because of you. It's not just my fault for playing the fool, but also you for pulling the strings. Just who exactly are you and what do you want? I'm not taking no for an answer, because you haven't told me shit, so how can I trust you? For all I know, this is some elaborate scheme that you can profit from. If you want to prove otherwise, THEN TELL ME THE TRUTH!"

His exclamation was very audible and his expression was slightly daunting. I had braced for this outburst a while ago, and I didn't flinch at his accusations. They were justified and natural... as expected of a human. Even Alpha had his limits. I faced him with a cool visage and answered levelly.

"You're not completely wrong... but not entirely right either, Kirito. I have been distant and careful as to not slip up information. If you must know, it's for precautions. As much as you may not trust me, I can't completely trust you either unless you agree to our terms. On another note, you asked me what I wanted. Well... I can't actually tell you that now, but suffice it to say, it will aid us all in the future. As for your last question... about who I am. That's a bit personal. You might even hate me if I told you right now..."

"..." Was the only thing he said while giving me an impassive look.

"You still have your doubts, don't you..." I asked quietly. He narrowed his eyes calculative.

"I do... but you have a small chance to convince me otherwise," he replied levelly.

"I can't tell you everything right now... but I'll say this: You and I are much more similar than you think. Please, lend me your assistance, just for a while at least. I can't think of many that could or would help me. I asking you because... you're different from everyone else. There's something that makes me want to trust you... and that's because you feel..." I faltered a little at the end.

"Guilt," I voiced simply.

His expression changed and no longer held the hostile, distrustful gaze. He seemed to be a little more attentive now.

"Inside I... still recall certain memories. I feel guilty for what I've done, which is why I'm asking you to help me. I won't force you to, as a matter of fact, you're free to say no... I wouldn't blame you, but I thought that you would, well, at least hear me out..." I trailed off gradually. A few moments of silence ensued and the longer it persisted, the more unbearable it became.

"I don't know what to say... but I feel that..." Kirito said after regaining composure. I could read that expression on his face. He was going to say no. I grew desperate.

"Don't you want to see the end of this world?" I interrupted staring at him pointedly. He stopped in his tracks to think about what I had said.

"Of course I do, we all do..." he stated a little defensively.

"And don't you want to see Asuna in the real world as soon as possible?..." I inquired inquisitively. He looked away a little awkwardly.

"Of course I do... I mean," he went on a little bashfully but certain nonetheless. "I love her."

Inside I felt my heart break a little but I could accept his response. He and Asuna belonged to each other, and even if I could, I wouldn't want to get in the way. I hid my feelings and pressed on in a professional manner.

"I'll help you achieve that. I promise. As long as you help me, I'll give my utmost effort to assist you. So what do you say? Deal?" I asked while reaching out my right hand hopefully.

He seemed to ponder my offer for the longest time until he gave a response. Slowly he reached out with his own hand and shook mine.

"Deal... you promise to tell me everything afterwards?" He asked for confirmation. I nodded in return.

"I will. It's nice to be working with you, Kirito-kun," I stated politely. He replied in an equally formal manner.

"It's nice to meet and work with you too, Violet," he said a little grudgingly. As expected, of course, but I would gain his trust over time. The fact that I had managed to convince him to work with me was good enough. "Maybe we should turn over a new leaf and start fresh then."

"I'd like that," I replied courteously.

"So when do we start?" He asked.

"First, let's take care of the boss, then I'll fill you in for the first task I want you to help me with," I responded and he shook his head slightly in acknowledgement.

"Fair enough," he said passively.

"The meeting is in 3 days. The floor clearing will proceed right after. Better hit the ground running, Kirito," I advised him. He turned around and walked off.

"I expect you to hold up your end of the bargain," he called out over his shoulder.

"Do I ever disappoint?" I remarked humorously. He scoffed slightly and muttered something I couldn't hear.

It'll take a long time, I mused to myself thoughtfully. But if I do it right... yes it will.

---

This meeting would be my second. I intended to show up just for kicks seeing as the last meeting I had attended wasn't very informative. I watched from a darkened corner of the room. The main guilds were gathered around the table. I saw Asuna residing next to Heathcliff as his advisor and second-in-command. She seemed to be casting looks back every once and a while. It was all too obvious to whom. I kept my jealousy under wraps.

Kirito was shadowed by another dark corner. He seemed to be drifting in and out of attention. I admired the fact that he still showed up for these tedious proceedings. I would've ditched the instant I got the chance. Not just because it was dull but also because I had other more important tasks to take care of. Surveillance over general matters, and more importantly monitoring them. Fortunately so far, only one had broken out. With Kirito's help I could locate the target and suppress the chances of a random player encountering them. I couldn't think of what might happen if that came about.

The meeting was adjourned after an agonizing amount of time. I noticed Kirito and Asuna keeping a fair distance from each other, but still sending subtle, furtive looks.

She really is that important to him... I thought quietly. It's too bad I couldn't be her. I would've liked for Kirito to look at me like that. But it was not meant to be, and I knew that better than anyone. I could wish for all it was worth, but a dream is all it would ever be. I reminded myself constantly that I wanted to help him only, and that was what I would do. I would push my emotions aside in order to carry out the objective. Besides, in the end, that would be the only thing worth doing.

Everyone marched towards the dungeon as the sun set. The gilded horizon looked beautiful. I kept my eyes veiled by my hood and pressed on. At least the scenic route would be one good thing about today.

Progress towards the boss room was quite a hassle. Bird-type enemies rained down upon us, forcing us to crane(no pun intended) our necks around keeping track of the enemy. It was dizzying work to fight off the opposition. Having the sky on your side was a tactical advantage. If it was any compensation, at least they couldn't excrete waste like pigeons often do.

With a combined effort of Kirito, myself and everyone else, we fought off the angry birds and made our way towards the boss room. There was still a smell of smoke in the air when I had used «Black Luster»'s ability to grill the remaining birds.

There were cages hanging down from the ceiling and littered bones of digested and regurgitated prey. This was an all-too obvious giveaway of what the boss must be. And due to my vigorous efforts sorting through files, I knew exactly what boss we would be fighting. I approached Kirito clandestinely.

"You ready for this?" I asked privately. He nodded slightly in response.

"It's nothing I can't handle," he replied in a controlled manner of voice tinted with slight arrogance. I smiled fondly at him in secret. He never failed to represent.

"You say that now... wait a few floors, then you'll take it back. Especially on the 50th floor..." I warned him softly. He gave me a curious look.

"Really now? What's so special about the 50th floor?" He inquired questioningly. I took a moment to formulate an acceptable response.

"Let's just say you'll need all the help you can get," I stated simply. He scoffed quietly to the side.

"I suppose that's why we're working together, then..." Kirito pointed out. I nodded my approval.

"You catch on quick," I said approvingly.

"Normally, I would be leading," he said a little defiantly.

"You'll get your chance soon enough... a home run can be achieved by a single effort. A victory is achieved by a team effort. Remember that there's no 'I' in team," I reminded Kirito to quell his pride. He of course gave a smart reply.

"Well there's no 'you' either... which means no one's on the damn team... it's a free-for-all. Always has been. In my view anyway..." he responded stubbornly. I sighed tiredly.

"Maybe you should see it through someone else's eyes..." I suggested politely in face of his semi-cynical beliefs.

"So what, you're saying I should form up a guild?" He questioned disbelievingly.

"I'm just saying working alone all the time may not win you everything... you may win the battle, but not the war," I pointed out reasonably.

"What if I prove you wrong?" He asked challengingly. I stared him in the eyes levelly.

"If you can prove me wrong, I won't criticize you anymore. As a matter of fact, you can then do whatever you want. Sound fair enough?" I offered to him and he nodded in acceptance.

"I expect an apology when I prove you wrong, then," he said haughtily. I smirked subtly.

"I will enjoy watching your valiant efforts in return," I replied teasingly and he rolled his eyes.

"Whatever..." he remarked sulkily. The doors were pushed open after Heathcliff's brief address to the crowd.

As we entered the boss room, we were met by a piercing screech from above. Everyone's attention was directed towards the huge sky cage hanging about ten stories above us. I showed no sign of surprise as I braced myself, tightening the grip on my sword handle. Kirito mirrored my actions.

A large flying entity flew down to meet us. It seemed to be a hybrid crossbreed between a dragon and a griffin. I didn't linger on my curiosity, and I wasn't going to ask how this monstrosity came about...

In any case, the boss's name was «Velocitor».

Tanks weren't much use here, since the opposition could just potentially fly around our defenses. The main concern was to avoid being caught in its talons. Even then, it was still difficult because it could breathe fire; not to mention we had a limited range of attack.

Kirito attempted to level the boss down with his darts, but the boss was a fast aerial-type, maneuvering past the shots effortlessly. So much for that. We needed a better plan. I glanced around and saw the obvious solution. Physics could assist me in grounding this nuisance.

"I have a plan if you're willing to listen," I proposed to Kirito while we all continued fighting off the boss from its numerous fly-by attacks. Unfortunately, a few players did get picked off, carried into the air and dropped from a devastating height. Talk about a bad landing...

"Depends on your plan," he remarked mockingly but gave a sign that he was listening.

"Use your «Rage Breaker» and center the effect on me. That'll launch me to an even elevation towards 'that'," I said pointing up. His eyes followed my direction and he realized my strategy.

"I see... you better hope this works," he cautioned me. I prepped myself for the jump.

"One question, though," he asked me as he readied his ring. I looked back at him.

"What would that be?" I replied curiously.

"Shouldn't I be the one going up?" Kirito said a little resentful. How childish.

"And hog all the glory? Just kidding. Well, I have the better sword," I pointed out patronizingly. He rolled his eyes but complied nonetheless.

"For now," he commented and hit the floor activating his ring. A crater opened in the floor and a stalagmite with a flattened platform rose below me. The acceleration of the lift and my jump raised me high enough to grasp onto the chain holding up the sky cage. Now I had to wait for the second phase of my plan to fall into place. It didn't take long knowing Kirito.

He managed to chuck a rock at its head to focus its attention on him. As soon as it fell into range of the overhanging shadow, I used «Black Luster»'s DIE ability and with 3 swings, I severed the chain supporting the metal cage as it dropped down below. In 3 seconds, the 'Congratulations' message appeared before me, signaling my victory with the Last Attack Bonus. I made note to inspect it later. I swung back and forth like a pendulum to gain enough momentum to reach the wall. I made a leap and with my sword in a reverse grip, stabbed it into the wall, sliding down roughly but carefully as sparks trailed my descent. I made a graceful backflip when I had lowered myself to a safe distance from the ground. I picked myself up quickly and scanned the dust.

The wreckage was quite a sight. The impact left an impression on the floor as though a giant had punched the ground. I saw a few surprised/shocked players but no serious injuries. I couldn't make out a certain figure, but I knew he was still alive.

Quit being dramatic, Kirito, I thought slightly annoyed but amused all the same. As if in response to my thought, I heard rocks and pieces of metal shifting apart. They gave way and soon enough, Kirito stood up out of the dust, disheveled but unscathed. He walked towards me.

"That was a great plan," he complimented sarcastically. I rolled my eyes playing along.

"I know. That's why you almost died," I remarked humorously. He didn't smile back.

"Almost... you're going to have to try harder then," he quipped back but with a little less annoyance. I saw him glance over at Asuna. She passed by with her guild but gave him a disapproving look that was contradicted by her smile which showed that she was a little all too familiar with his antics. He smiled back slightly. I proceeded to give him a slight shove.

"Come on, lover boy, let's go," I said pouting just a bit.

"What's the hurry?" He asked a little surprised at me being so pushy.

"We're starting the first favor I need of you," I answered formally. He fell silent and wondered what I meant by that. As we headed to the next floor, I felt my head throb with a sudden pain.

Ahh... another headache... it's getting worse... I need to hurry, before the next one shows up...

---

Violet asked me to stay in town on the 27th floor until she came back. I had no problem waiting, but waiting always took longer when you actually paid attention to how long it was. I nearly fell asleep sitting down, so I decided to walk about.

For some reason, my head kept pulsating slightly. It was a sharp pain at first, but then it dulled. I received a random flash of memory depicting that impossible sight I saw back on the 26th floor.

Coper... I thought troubled. But it's impossible... isn't it?

There was no real logic that could explain what I saw. I wondered if it was just me going insane. Or maybe it was a side effect for staying in this game for so long. That idea sounded less than promising so I hoped my mind wasn't deteriorating as a byproduct.

After wandering around for a bit, I ran into a familiar acquaintance.

"Kirito-chan!" Called out a feminine voice as I was hugged tightly from behind. I was very conscious of my back being pressed against. I returned the greeting.

"Ashley-san, it's been a while. How are you?" I asked as we- or rather I walked while dragging Ashley on my back.

"I've been better," she admitted casually. "So I heard you sealed the deal with Asuna," she remarked blatantly. I started coughing suddenly and I felt my face heating up.

"WHAT?!" I exclaimed a little too loudly. I waited for clarification.

"Why are you so surprised? Did you not kiss Asuna?" Ashley asked confused. I sighed a breath of relief. Oh... that's what she had meant.

"Oh... you should be more clear next time... well... yeah... I guess I did. A few times..." I confessed as an afterthought. She smiled at me.

"That's so sweet... but sad at the same time..." she commented truthfully and I wondered why.

"How is it 'sad'?" I asked curiously.

"That means you and Asuna are exclusive now. Which also means you're off the market..." she pouted and I blushed a bit, flattered at her sentiments.

"Well, technically yes and no. We agreed to take responsibility in leading the frontlines and uniting the people. That way, we can all escape this place sooner," I elaborated.

"I see. Well, I'm proud that you're taking action and putting others ahead of yourself," Ashley said enraptured by my words. I smiled bashfully.

"Yeah... I never thought I'd actually consider doing that either..." I admitted honestly as she patted my head.

"Keep up the good work then. You're going places, I can tell," she encouraged me and I took her words to heart.

"Yeah... I really do miss it back home..." I told her and she snuggled closer to comfort me.

"Well, I have business to attend to, but it was nice running into you, Kirito-chan. Let's meet again soon," she said earnestly as she let me go. I nodded solemnly.

"Maybe," I replied as the most accurate answer I could muster.

"Close enough," she said as she waved me goodbye, walking away. I waved back and continued walking about. I wondered how everyone else was doing.

I hadn't really gotten the chance to talk with Klein recently, Argo had been busy with her clients, Agil was still aiding the middle-leveled players as subtly as he could, and everyone else seemed to be passing the days by normally as they could.

But I knew that was not true. There was a lot more going on than it seemed.

I heard rumors that Kibaou had been promoted in the Army ranks. I have no idea how, but I suspected illicit means. Moreover, news had spread of my 'return' and by now, the whispers had returned and the betas went into hiding. At least, they tried not to draw attention to themselves. Easier for them than me at least.

I stopped wandering around and sat on a stone bench. Everything around me seemed to slow down as I pondered my position in this world. Everything that happened so far had led up to here. The 27th floor's town was called «Ronbaru». It had a night elfish theme about it, appearing to be a festival lit up by the numerous orange lights. The structures seemed to be made of stone, and the alleys and stairs were criss-crossed with each other in a complicated manner. However, the intricacy added to its beauty. The town was carved into a mountain near a ravine and there was a pot roast fragrance in the air. The area lacked large buildings and infrastructures of the like. There were only a few shops, an inn, some private properties and the circular central plaza with the «Teleport Gate».

I fell into the silence of the atmosphere. There was so much that I still had to do. I wondered how my body in the real world was holding up. The few moments of silence I was given made me consider my situation very carefully. After evaluating, I realized something.

What if I do die? I mused quietly.

It was not a pleasant thought, but the idea occurred to me quite a few times.

It could very well happen, as a matter of fact, it almost did a few times. I was just lucky enough not to. But then, what if I wasn't so lucky next time?

Would I be prepared for what happens then? What about Asuna, Klein, Argo, and everyone else? I thought worriedly.

I didn't get much time to think out a plan as a hand tapped my shoulder. I turned around and saw Violet with a serious expression.

"We need to get a move on. I've found our target. But it's on the next floor. We have to clear it now," she said so demandingly I was caught off guard. Was it really that important?

"What is it that's so important we have to go now? Can't we wait a while?" I asked surprised at her impatience. She gave me a dark look that clearly said, 'wrong answer'.

"If you're fine with risking everyone's safety, then sure. Let's go ahead and wait," she spat out vehemently and I was hurt by her disregarding words. That was pretty harsh and I had not ever heard her speak like that so far.

"What do you mean risking everyone's safety? I would never risk Asuna's safety..." I argued defensively. She seemed slightly pained by those words but addressed me professionally nonetheless.

"Then let's go already. Do you want to beat this game or not?" She stated coldly and rushed off without another word. Girls are so hard to understand sometimes... but I gritted my teeth and followed.

"Shouldn't we bring backup?" I asked running after her. She didn't look around as she responded.

"Doubting yourself already? I thought you were going to prove me wrong," she called back mockingly. That little instigating comment riled me up and slight anger was incited from within.

"What's your problem, Violet?" I snapped back agitated at her lack of decent communication.

"Just shut up and quit questioning me if you want this to be over soon. Don't worry. This floor's boss won't be too tough. We just have to eliminate it from our path as soon as possible. Just keep up with me," she shot back rather rudely but I was not one to talk.

We cut our way through rather quickly and reached the boss room in record time. After we opened the door, the boss soon revealed itself. «Dark Elven Prancer» was its name. It was a ten-foot purple-skinned elf with devious red eyes and a snickering smile. He leapt about with mockingly easy bounds. It was rather annoying as he caught my darts and redirected them at me. With Violet's help, I managed to deflect all seven shots.

I wouldn't admit it, but we seemed to partner up well. Her precision and elegance matched my aggressiveness and intricacy. She was not as fast as Asuna but maybe she was holding back. With anger and frustration fueling me, and impatience and aggression fueling her, we finished off the boss with a deadly-coordinated dance of death. The boss whimpered as we struck with vengeance and ended its life with a final spinning slash. Not to begrudge her, but Violet managed to steal the LA Bonus by being slightly faster. Still, I admired her skill during our performance. She didn't even use her blade's special ability.

We connected the 28th floor to the recently opened 27th. It was the first time floors had been beaten back to back. The news would spread soon enough from the NPCs and the other players that it took only a pair of players to conquer a boss. A team of two was hardly what I would call an adequate attack force, but it worked. I supposed I could give Violet a little more trust than I had been giving. She had proven herself worthy to be my partner. Still... I wondered...

She didn't speak until we reached the 28th floor's main town. «Lunara» was the name. It was highly appropriate as I had a magnificent view of the moon. It was full tonight, and I could hear the distant howl of a wolf.

"Right. Now that we're here, we need to pinpoint its location," Violet said briskly and I was confused.

"Pinpoint?..." I asked and she explained further.

"With these," she said tossing me a stake-like object. It was metallic and heavy, giving off a silver shine and a slight yellow glow.

"What's this?" I questioned wonderingly, a little suspicious.

"A «Marker»," she said simply. I blinked.

"You mean that ancient alien artifact that killed everyone in Dead Space?" I inquired a little humorously to dispel the tension. She sighed but smiled a bit.

"Trust me, it won't kill you. I just need you to find the highest point possible and place this into the ground. The rest will take care of itself," she assured me. I glanced into the distance.

"That mountain over there looks pretty tall. Wait... you want me to climb 'that'?" I inquired incredulously. She gave no change in expression.

"Yes. That shouldn't be too hard, so I trust you can handle it," she stated dryly. I was none too reassured by her comforting words of encouragement.

"Great... so what are you going to be doing?" I asked poutingly.

"I'm going to place the other marker to triangulate the position of the target," she said holding up a second stake glowing red. I sighed. At least I wasn't the only one doing the work. Wait a minute...

"Hang on. Don't you need three points to triangulate coordinates?" I questioned noting the discrepancy. She nodded in response and held out the other «Marker» glowing with a light blue tint.

"Tell you what. We'll do the last one together. Sound good?" Violet asked me and I grudgingly nodded. We split up and hurried in our respective directions. Once I got to the mountain, my hopes became downcast.

What the fuck... I didn't plan on mountain climbing... I sighed out loud. Too bad I'm not Bear Grylls...

I started my slow ascension to the top. There were plenty of ledges to grab onto. My fingers dug into the rough rock and clenched at whatever I could hold onto. The distance down below increased as I got higher. I tried hard not to think about the fall. The air grew thinner and colder. I had been climbing for about 20 minutes. At least by now, I could see the top.

I received a jump-scare when I reached the top. I nearly fell off by grabbing a loose rock but fortunately I drove my «Shard of Midnight» into the mountain like an ice axe. Thankfully the mountain wasn't frozen, then I might've slipped.

Well, I mused slightly relieved. At least this is the easy part.

I drove the «Marker» into the ground. It gave off a more definite glow, shining gold. I wondered how exactly they functioned...

I was about to message Violet, but then I realized I didn't have her on my friend list.

What a poor lack of planning... how are we going to communicate? I thought late to the party realizing this.

Someone tapped me on my shoulder. Speak of the devil.

"How the hell did you get up here so quickly?" I asked her without a proper greeting. She smiled slightly at me. It looked more like a smirk though.

"Perhaps I'm more athletic than you are... maybe you should cut down on the sugar. Get some exercise, it might do you some good," she said sassily. I knew she was joking but it pissed me off anyway. I rolled my eyes and changed the topic to a different subject.

"Let's just do the last one already... I'm tired," I remarked impatiently and we set off. I followed her, trying to keep up the pace. I guess those legs weren't just for show...

We arrived at a moonlit open field. It was near the outskirts of town. By now I had mapped out most of the area. If I wasn't mistaken, besides the NPCs, we were the only people on this floor.

I glanced at the water reflecting the moonlight. Pretty. They shined just like Asuna's eyes.

"This is it," Violet said pulling out the final «Marker» glowing with a bright red. The crimson burned into my eyes and I shook it off.

"Ready?" She asked. I wrapped my hand around it and in the process I slightly came into contact with Violet's hand. It felt a little awkward but I ignored it.

"Ready," I responded and together we sunk the stake into the ground. Its color intensified into a deep candy apple red. It continued to glow and nothing else happened. How dramatic.

"So... what do we do now?" I asked her at a lost for words. She didn't respond immediately. Rather, she was inspecting her interface and her face grew more serious by the minute. Then she closed her menu screen and turned to me.

"We have to go now. There's not much time before it moves again," Violet commanded. Normally, I wouldn't take orders from anyone but I guess everyone including me had to make exceptions sometimes. We set off again in a renewed burst of speed.

"What exactly are we looking for?" I asked again while hurrying behind her.

"Just treat it as important. That's all you need to know for now," she called back. I sighed openly. How long was she going to keep me in the dark?

We arrived near a conglomerate of stone ruins and rocky hills. There was grass and gravel paths straying all about. I looked around and suddenly my head hurt again.

Ahh... damn it, what is that? I voice mentally. It was the 3rd time that this had happened. Conspicuously, for some reason, Violet also appeared to touch the side of her head, massaging her temple. I passed it off as a coincidence.

I resumed my surveillance, and there it was for a second time.

Coper.

But... not exactly. That figure looked just like him, and yet... there was something off. There was no life in his eyes, and he seemed to... flicker? There was something behind him, and I could hear this invisible scratching sound, almost like static...

What the hell was going on?

---

Damn it, I thought worriedly. I had hoped we wouldn't have to encounter this predicament... I guess we have no choice however...

I glanced over at Kirito. It's not that I didn't trust his abilities, but I was worried about his safety. I'd have to play it carefully in order for both of us to make it back. I took a deep breath and addressed him.

"Come on, let's go," I said to him. He gave me an uncomfortable look, but his expression immediately hardened and he complied. I guess he still took my challenge seriously and was determined to prove me wrong. Typical Kirito...

We walked towards the 'discrepancy'. I'm sure he was seeing a sort apparition now, but it didn't worry me too much. It was just a fragment. A shadow. Deleted data if you will...

"You can back out now if you want," I jested at him lightly. He rolled his eyes in response and resolutely went forward. Admirable. And amusing at the same time.

"You wish," he said stubbornly.

"Before you go charging in, hold my hand. We have a better chance to survive that way," I pointed out. He came over and semi-grudgingly held my left hand. I was slightly elated but shook it off and pressed forward professionally. We journeyed into the unknown.

Well, unknown for him at least.

I remember the distorted images and twisted vision all too well. If we weren't holding hands, we might've gotten separated. A myriad of indistinct images streamed by us. I received several flashbacks from earlier times. I felt my heart clench tighter. The warmth of Kirito's hand was the only thing that kept me focused.

We arrived at our destination. But it wasn't that easy.

I found what I was looking for. As expected it was locked.

"Where the hell are we?..." Kirito wondered out loud. The surrounding area was an enclosure of an empty space marked only by streams of light flashing past. The singular color scheme of the 'room' varied like a lava lamp.

"This is called a «Void Space»," I elaborated and that was all I was going to say. Kirito read that from my expression and just accepted the answer.

"«Void Space»... that wasn't in the beta test..." He mused out loud. He gave a low whistle.

"Well, then, let's get what we came for then," he started walking towards the black box a short distance away.

"Kirito, wait-" I called out.

Too late.

He stepped on a wrong block on the ground and suddenly we were surrounded. Enemies spawned from everywhere of all kinds. They seemed to look more... digitized with square grids on their bodies. Nevertheless, they could deal real damage.

"Whoops... sorry," he said as an understatement. It was a little too late to apologize. I expected there would be some defense around 'it', though. I drew out my «Black Luster».

"We don't have time to waste around fighting these things. Get to the objective and break open the cube, I'll hold them off," I proposed and he nodded skipping past the enemies. They ran after him but I vanquished them with one fire wave. Subsequently after, a greater multiple of enemies replaced them. It was a never-ending fight. I engulfed a few dozen more in flames but the numbers continued to grow.

Hurry up, Kirito... I thought desperately as the enemies closed in.

I heard the lock break. He was successful. Thank goodness.

"I got it!" He shouted out and I rushed to his side while keeping the enemy at bay.

"Then it's time to leave. Follow me, I'll get us to the exit," I said and we retreated with the enemy in tow.

We nearly made it to our destination. A slit in the wall revealed the «Wolf Plains» we traveled from earlier. Now it was time to depart. When suddenly...

"AHHHH!" Kirito exclaimed. I whipped my head around worriedly. I panicked.

A multitude of thorny roots had risen from the ground and tangled up Kirito. He was trapped and I rushed back. But suddenly he threw something at me. I caught it.

A silver sphere with an Ω symbol engraved in black within a grey circle.

"Just go! I'll catch up to you!" He shouted at me. But I refused to comply on an impulse.

"DON'T BE SO STUPID! I'm not letting you die!" I shouted back and ignited my «Black Luster» once again. My health was drained to 40%. 3 more minutes.

"You're one to talk!" He shouted back denoting the massive army behind him. I cut him loose from the roots and we fought tooth and nail against the oncoming onslaught.

But I was weakening.

Extended usage of a «Cursed Weapon» would do that sometimes. I was growing weary and drifting out of focus. With one last swing, I incinerated a path through the enemy and created a gateway back to the 28th floor. Then I collapsed, and I remembered nothing except Kirito shouting my name in the distance.

---

I felt a cool breeze meet me. It was a pleasant wind. I felt a dazzling light shine down upon me as well. I felt an inviting warmth, more precious than sunlight. It seemed too perfect, it must've been a dream. That's when I woke up.

The moon was still shining brightly in the distance. I was laying down on something soft. I felt a familiar presence near me.

"Welcome back," Kirito greeted me gently. I looked at him curiously. He seemed to be hiding something in his expression. Was that... concern? If it was, I was touched.

"Did you..." I asked and he held up the silver sphere. I smiled at him lightly.

"Yeah, I thought you'd get angry if I left it behind now, wouldn't you?" he joked casually. I smirked subtly.

"Pretty angry," I admitted but passed it off. I felt very appreciative towards his efforts.

"So..." He said not sure how to continue. I picked up the conversation for him.

"I guess we're even now. You know, seeing how you saved me..." I confessed and he smiled bashfully with a flushed face. It was very cute.

"Actually, I think I still owe you. I saved you once, you've saved me, like what, three times already?" He said truthfully. I smiled at him fondly.

"Twice. Don't forget your 'plan' back on the 10th floor... so now you just have to save me again once more, and then we'll be even," I reminded him. "For a while, at least..." I added in.

"Right... so you mind telling me what we almost died for just now?" He questioned a little brusquely.

"It's... very important to me. And it'll help in the future radically. Just trust me, please?" I asked with a tint of hopeful pleading in my voice. He nodded showing his grudging assent.

"If you say so... and... well, thanks for coming back... I... appreciate it..." he voiced out embarrassingly. I thought it was quite touching to hear coming from him.

"I didn't do it just because we're partners you know..." I trailed off mysteriously. He raised his eyebrows in question.

"Then why..." He tried to ask but I shook my head.

"It's... complicated. But you'll find out. One day..." I said quietly and we left it at that.

"I see..." he said and he didn't try to pry further. I guess he had a little bit of tact.

"I'll call you again when I find another one. Stay vigilant til then," I said to him and he nodded. He tossed the sphere to me. I held it tightly with affection.

"What about the «Markers»?" Kirito asked me.

"Oh those? Well..." I said planning to tease him.

"Would you be a doll and go fetch them for me? I feel utterly exhausted to do it myself..." I teased playfully. He gave me a dry expression.

"You're kidding..." he said remembering the strenuous mountain climb.

"Please, would you my dear darling?" I asked persuasively. He gave me a tired expression.

"..." Was the only thing he said. I smirked openly at him.

"I'm kidding. There's an easy part after all of this," I said and with a few swipes from my menu, I recalled all three «Markers» we had planted throughout the floor.

"I can't believe it took so long to position these things and how quick it is to clean up..." Kirito muttered disdainfully. I smiled sympathetically at him.

"If it's any compensation, I'm really glad you helped me today. You deliver well," I complimented and his countenance brightened slightly.

"I know I do," he said. "Tell me something I don't."

"You need to learn modesty," I quipped back and he shut up while giving me a dirty look.

"Whatever. I'm out," he said and started walking away. "Don't get yourself killed. Call me when you need me," he said as he disappeared.

Oh Kirito... you never change, I thought fondly to myself.

---

To save time on tedious details, I'm gonna summarize the most important/interesting events that happened on the next four floors.

On the 28th floor, people had migrated over and the news had spread that the 27th floor was actually cleared by only a pair of players. Most people suspected it was me alongside some other person. I caught glimpses of slightly less hostile faces but I still heard the customary criticisms of my character. To be expected of course.

The 28th floor boss was a larger than average wolf named «Lupin». I wasn't really a cat person, but I wasn't really a dog person either, so I wasn't sure whether or not facing this boss was worse than «Catastrophe».

In any case, we had gone through the doors and encountered it almost immediately after stepping in.

To make matters worse, it brought along a pack that dragged a few of our players away. Unfortunate, but expected to happen.

Our numbers were roughly equal but the wolves had one advantage on most of us.

They held no fear. I could see it in their eyes. Only killing intent, which made them formidable predators. But I had the bigger bite.

I wasn't surprised after I had skewered a few wolves that the Alpha pounced on me and bit at my neck. It hurt like hell, but fortunately I was spared further pain from a certain 'acquaintance' of mine.

Violet violently vanquished the wolf with a vicious strike from the back. She offered me a hand to pull me up and I graciously accepted it.

"Thanks," I offered to her appreciatively but a little wounded in my pride. "But I could've taken it..." I added defensively.

"Right... we'd just have to wait another five years or so," she quipped back and I glared at her. She smirked and sashayed away. I didn't notice it, but Asuna was giving off a jealous expression.

The next floor was the 29th. In contrast with the previous floor, this floor was more daylight-themed. It was more of a dry climate but it had grassland and a decent town with furnished establishments of polished wood.

The boss on this floor was called The «Ash Sprite». True to its name, it had a spectral appearance. The arena was a slightly uneven rock floor with cracks in it. A unique ability I noted about this boss, was that it could teleport.

I'll admit it, it was frustrating to pin down this boss. We all spent a decent amount of time chasing it around, occasionally managing to hit it. In the process, it managed to jump around and stealthily attack a few players from behind like a black mist of death. The second ability it had was its acid breath which was a burning moisture when applied.

In the end, I managed to freeze it down with my «Icebreaker» and «Frostbiter» combo and Violet finished it off with Dark Infernal Embers. Chalk up four-in-a-row for her.

The 30th floor was considerably darker. The moon was a prominent feature on this floor, but instead it looked more malevolent than peaceful and calming.

There was red tinge in the sky hidden beneath the cerulean blue. Most of us resided in the main town, but I still had to get my training hours and make some profit. I went out in the field to farm for about 3 days. The dungeon was in the process of being discovered. In that time, I once again arranged a meeting with Argo.

As per usual, it was another bar called, 'The Milky Way'. Intriguing, most definitely. Not that I cared that much. I waited for about 15 minutes before she showed up after sending a message.

"Yo, it's been a while, Kii-bou," Argo greeted and I nodded my recognition. As a gentleman, I offered her a drink and attempted to sway her from getting something alcoholic. As you guess that failed genuinely.

After taking a generous dosage of alcoholic beverage, I asked her about any jobs around the market.

"Hmm... well, in that case, there is an order from a rather wealthy associate of mine for the rumored «Moonstones» located in the caves of this floor. He's willing to pay quite the price too..." Argo trailed off hinting rather heavily at the monetary rewards.

"How much for how many?" I asked tersely.

"Depends. But I'd say, quality over quantity... you know, size and weight. But having a couple dozen doesn't hurt either..." she left off suggestively. I smiled lightly at her more-than-obvious hints.

"I get it," I replied and wondered about how much I could make.

"If you can get those stones, I'll handle the transaction. We'll split it 50/50. Deal?" Argo asked me for confirmation. I nodded.

"It's a deal," I responded firmly. Argo took another draft from her drink.

"So how are you going to find them? There's not exactly any specific source of info... even my sources haven't gotten anything yet..." Argo pouted to me. I pondered this and came up with a solution rather quickly.

"I have an idea. There's someone I have in mind that can help me," I stated and Argo leaned in curious.

"Really now? You have friends? I mean, other friends?" Argo joked at me and I gave her a scornful look.

"You could say that..." I drifted off silently. She took this as confirmation.

"Whatever. I just care that you get the stones anyhow. It doesn't matter to me how you do it... just hurry up," she said casually and I stood to leave. At the door, Argo called out to me.

"Hey, Kirito?" She called out. She didn't usually call me by my name. At least, my nickname/gamer name. We both knew each others real names as well, it was just more convenient to go by our fashioned ones.

"Yeah?" I called back.

"Be careful," she said simply with genuine concern. I felt thankful for her sudden sentiments.

"I bet Asuna paid you to say that," I joked slightly and she pouted.

"You're so mean, Kii-bou. I actually meant that, you jerk... but seriously, take care of yourself. There are only so many times you can evade death. You might trip up one day, so be careful with your life. It's precious. I mean... if you died... I'd miss you..." Argo admitted bashfully. Something inside my heart reached out to her. It was rare to see her so worked up emotionally. That might've been the first time she expressed her gratitude and concern openly. It was that authentic.

"I'd miss you too. But I don't plan on dying. It'll be okay, I promise. Because I'll be the one who finishes this death game. I know it, for all things that are true, this will be so," I declared boldly and smiled at me.

"Then good luck," she said and I nodded my acknowledgement as I left.

"I make my own luck, but thanks," I replied shortly.

Actually... I thought to myself ponderous.

I might need some good luck... I confessed mentally.

There's something wrong with this world...

And with that thought, my head throbbed with a renewed pain that was just as quickly gone like the wind.

---

I stood at the bank of a large lake. There were several rivers streaming off from it. In addition I could make out a small island off of the coast and a delta formed from sediment deposits. The everest trees gave a calming yet foreboding look. The forest seemed pretty sketchy but I didn't worry too much.

That's when something caught my eye.

There was a sudden glint in the forest. Out of curiosity, I decided to take a look. Under normal circumstances this was a bad idea, but I was never one to conform with normal circumstances.

In a clearing planted right in the middle of a grass patch, was a set of jewels. I used my «Appraisal» skill to identify the items and calculate the price I could sell it for. Amethyst, opal, blue topaz, ruby, and sapphire. Quite the catch, I must say. And then-

A sudden drop from the sky.

I instinctively rolled out of the way while snatching up the gemstones in a small brown bag. I intended to sneak in and out like a thief but apparently someone else had their eyes on it as well.

I drew out my Knightsword, and I was met with an unwelcome reception.

"My, my. Your «Detection» could use a bit of work. Still, your natural reflexes are quite impressive. Hello again, Alpha," called out a familiar Briton.

I swept my eyes around. He wasn't alone.

Out came two new figures I had never seen before. On impulse I shot all my darts at them. Unfortunately, they deflected each one of them with apparent ease. I suppose that was to be expected however...

"Come to kill me?" I asked while eyeing all three of them warily. I was surrounded by them in a triangular trap. Just my luck. The one time I try to be a kleptomaniac, it fails.

"Naturally, of course. You know what they say, 'If they can't join you, kill them.' Am I right?" White Death taunted me mockingly. His colleagues closed in on me. I don't think negotiations were possible this time around, so I prepared for a fight.

"I'd like to you to meet my fellow brethren: Red-Eyed XaXa and Johnny Black. You should feel honored, Alpha. We three personally volunteered to eliminate you," he elaborated. I was none too comforted by that statement.

"That's flattering... but at the same time, it seriously takes three of you to take me on? Pathetic..." I snapped back viciously.

All words were abandoned then.

A poisoned kunai was thrown at me from XaXa and I flicked my blade upright to deflect it. Then a second attack came from the left by White Death and in my haste, I diverted it with my left hand.

In the process, my «Gravity Binder», «Rage Breaker» and «Icebreaker» rings broke from the impact. I hissed my displeasure, surveying the shattered pieces. So much for durability...

Dismissing the regrettable loss of equipment, I countered an overhead strike from Johnny Black. XaXa rushed in with a right swing and I twirled back in a right 360° relinquishing the blade lock and following up with a spinning parry. I retreated back with a quickstep switching my posture, right foot back, left foot front.

I advanced with a diagonal left sweep from the ground, forcing White Death to sidestep to his left. I was immediately met by XaXa coming in with a diagonal lower right slash. I deflected it with a mirrored attack. The incoming force was enough to spark up the edges. I pushed against his sword to knock him back. I subsequently kicked him with a right foot to the abdomen, causing him to kneel over. I took advantage and rolled over his exposed back following up with a downward «Vertical» onto Black. The combined momentum and weight of my sword cut his shoulder slightly as he blocked it barely.

I sensed movement from behind. A second attack from the back came, and with a shortcut gesture, I drew out my «Anneal Blade» to counter it. I held one blade against Black and another against W. Death in reverse grip. XaXa recovered and rushed in with a renewed assault. I stepped on Black's left foot, broke off the blade lock against W. Death and with a right leg sweep, unbalanced Black, leaving him flat on his back. I made to cleave him with a double downward chop but two swipes from W. Death and XaXa forced me to execute a forward roll saving myself from a fatal hit, but allowing Black to regain his composure. Back to square one...

"Dual-wielding? You never fail to surprise me, Alpha... I've heard rumors of charlatans attempting this style, but you are the genuine article. A shame that you refused to join us, we could've used your talent..." White Death stated casually. I narrowed my eyes at him.

XaXa and Black came in with a coordinated attack. XaXa used the same method I did earlier and rolled over his partner's back following up with a downward slash I was forced to meet with cold steel. Another strike from the left required me to raise my «Anneal Blade» except-

Ahhh... I grunted mentally. A feint... clever.

The force of the unexpected kick nearly unbalanced me. But I kept my cool and repositioned myself accordingly. A trace of panic came across my thoughts. I was slipping up.

I charged while retracting my left arm to the right. Then I swung my arm back with a simple side swipe. It was countered by XaXa but then I knocked my right knee up displacing his right arm unexpectedly. Then I collided into him with my right shoulder, knocking him back. A right swing from Black forced me to duck and I spun a low sweep to the right forcing him to jump back. I countered both White Death and Black's blades by crossing my own in an X-shape.

Unfortunately, even with my strength, the force of the two of them combined shoved me back and I rolled over into a retreating stance. God damn synergy...

I was growing more agitated by the minute. And in the process, I started losing ground. In my frustration, I swung more aggressively, but my execution was sloppier, and there were more openings exposed. I managed to occasionally cut their legs and stab at their shoulders, but I received an equal amount of wounds. My health actually hit the yellow zone.

In a reckless attempt, I ran forward charging with a 360° clockwise spin with both swords in succession. I managed to break Black's «Cross Swipe» and the shards of blackened steel flew into the air as I inflicted a massive amount of damage from raking his chest with the sharp edges of my swords. In return, the second I tried to chain the attack and go for a combo, a dart struck my left hand and disarmed my «Anneal Blade». I dropped the heavy blade with a gasp of surprised pain. That's not the only thing.

I suddenly fell to my knees and dropped my Knightsword as well. Fuck.

Paralysis.

I saw near the upper left corner of the screen, the «Paralyzed» symbol displayed next to my health bar. I could barely move, and with strained difficulty, I lifted my head to see White Death raising his «King's Knightsword» above my head.

"Game over, Alpha," he stated simply without any remorse. I looked at him without flinching. I could still move slightly. There was one last hope I was banking on.

Before he ended my life, I raised my right arm with difficulty and activated «Mecha Exo» for a split second. Taking advantage of the invincibility, I was able to catch his sword within my bare hand. He looked shocked as I started to rise slowly.

"Fuck. You."

Truer words were never spoken until now.

Suddenly, the paralysis status lifted. I heard an antidote crystal being applied from behind.

"Cure," a melodic voice said. I inwardly smiled.

Violet.

I took advantage of his shocked state and drew out my «Shard of Midnight». I stabbed him through the diaphragm, dropkicked him back, rolled over while pulling out the knife, and holding the sharp end of the weapon in my left hand, I threw it at XaXa hitting him near the right side of his chest. Meanwhile, Violet used her special ability DIE to inflict searing pain on Black with black fire. How ironic. But technically it was purple and black.

Violet and I stood side by side, shoulders barely touching. I recovered my Knightsword from the ground and sent the «Anneal Blade» to my inventory. XaXa ripped out the knife in his chest ruthlessly and tossed it aside. All three faced us head-on. This time, the odds were slightly more even.

"Are you alright?" Violet asked me with concern evident in her voice. I smiled slightly with appreciation for her worry.

"Better now that you're here. It's good you showed up when you did. Otherwise I wouldn't have an audience to watch me wipe the floor with these guys," I responded with arrogance but mixed with relief at her arrival.

"Of course. You weren't just getting the shit beat out of you," she quipped back teasingly and I rolled my eyes.

"Hey, it was not a curb stomp. For 3-on-1, I did pretty good," I retorted immediately defensive. She gave me a sympathetic look.

"I see... I suppose it sounds more glamorous when you put it like that," she stated casually and I gave her an annoyed look.

"Whatever. Are you going to help me or not?" I snapped back.

"If you say 'please', then maybe," Violet teased playfully. But nonetheless, we squared up to prepare an attack.

"Yeah, whatever. 'Please'. Satisfied?" I asked mockingly as I complied to her request. She smiled humorously.

"Very. Let's win this fight then," she said confidently.

Now that we had rendezvoused together, we managed to overwhelm them in about 3 minutes. Her graceful spins and twirls complemented my erratically prolonged chain of attacks. We regained ground quickly and had them on the run. With another shoulder tackle, I forced White Death back, panting heavily.

"Had enough?" I taunted sardonically even though I was out of breath as well. This was not my cleanest fight. He shot me a hateful look of scorn. Then an evil smile took residence on his facial expression.

"You think you're really all that, don't you? Let's test that, Alpha," he said and he nodded to his teammates. They grinned maliciously as well despite having to catch their breath from the exhausting fight. I narrowed my eyes. What was he planning?

Suddenly a smoke bomb was thrown, and my vision was obscured. I heard them teleporting away one by one. Before that, White Death called out to me challengingly.

"If you want to finish this, you'll have to corner us first, Alpha. If you've got the nerve, of course... but since you're such a bleeding heart, you'll want to be noble now, won't you?" He spat out derisively spiteful before he teleported away.

What does he mean by that?... I mused suspiciously in my head.

"We should chase after them," Violet advised me urgently. I rolled my eyes. Thank you, Captain Obvious.

"Yeah, I know that. But to where?" I inquired of her. She gave me a level expression disregarding my biting sarcasm.

"He said 'corner'. Check your map," she said slightly patronizing. I obliged anyway and opened up my map. Realization kicked in nearly on the spot.

The area of this floor was comprised mostly of smoothly curved borders. There was only one crudely-shaped 'corner' on this map near the bottom left edge. That was where we had to go.

---

It wasn't long before I encountered the Laughing Coffin members again. White Death was standing there in the pale moonlight. Like a white devil. His arms were crossed, and his black hood shrouded his eyes but I could see him smile malevolently.

"Ahh, you made it. I was starting to think you wouldn't show up," he addressed me affably as though we were friends.

"Cut the crap. Let's get this over with," I voiced aggressively at him. He unfolded his arms.

"Very well then, as you wish..." he said submitting too easily. Something was wrong here...

"...But are you sure?..." he added mysteriously. Here we go...

"What do you mean-" I asked but before I could finish my question, a scream from inside the cave behind him rung throughout the vicinity. The echoes carried back and died out momentarily. I grew silently angry and my blood started boiling.

That is so cheap... I mused furiously.

"You shouldn't have done that... I might've spared you and let you go to jail instead... now you're asking for it," I spat venomously. He didn't quiver at my threat.

"As matter of fact, I am asking for it. So, Alpha,are you so noble as to save a few random, insignificant innocents, or are you going to be practical and face me and my brethren here and now? Choose wisely..." White Death said mockingly.

Had I never met Asuna or had any friends at all, had I had nothing to fight for and nothing to care about, then perhaps I would've chosen different. But I was... I was... still, I was...

Human.

If that were me, I would want someone to help me as well. I couldn't just leave things like this. Every life has value. I couldn't let innocent people pay with theirs for my mistakes...

"I'll find you again, White Death. And when I do, I want you to know I called your death. And it will be cold and merciless," I declared frigidly. He smirked at my response.

"It seems you've chosen unwisely. Still unwilling to make sacrifices... that's what makes you weak," he stated scornfully and snapped his fingers. Suddenly, a dozen hooded figures appeared from behind boulders.

He set me up... I thought hatefully. Bastard...

I didn't have the time to fight all of them. By then, those people trapped in the cave would be dead, and I would have more blood on my hands.

"Kirito, just go. I'll hold them off until you get back," Violet said to me. I gave her a look of genuine concern.

"If you're asking me for permission to die, I won't allow it. Come with me," I ordered her and I forcibly grabbed her hand to drag her away. She shook me off defiantly.

"You still owe me. Trust me on this. I'll be alright, I promise. Now go already!" she said and she ignited her «Black Luster», engulfing it with violet swirling flames. I gritted my teeth and left her behind.

Thankfully, with a huge fire wave, she cleared a path for me in between the ranks of the Laughing Coffin members. I rushed pass them and headed to the source of the scream.

I hope she was right... I thought to myself worriedly. I wouldn't admit it out loud, but I had grown kind of fond for Violet. After all, she had helped me multiple times, despite almost never giving me a straight answer, or rather, any answer at all. Still, I suppose I did consider her my... my...

Well, I guess the right word would be 'friend'...

---

I don't know how long I waited for him, but it was long enough that I grew tired fending off the Laughing Coffin members. I checked my health bar.

16% left...

I shot off several more waves of fire. It cut through the enemy forces like a lawnmower on grass. Still, there were thirteen of them and only one of me. I would hate to think what would happen should I lose... and I mean worse things than death...

A dart was aimed at me. I deflected it but then another hit me in the knee. It hurt, but at least it wasn't an arrow...

Paralysis.

With my last antidote crystal, I applied it to myself and stood up again.

6% left... this was not good. I considered using a teleport crystal, but I didn't want to abandon Kirito-kun...

With the last of my physical strength, I unleashed a massive meteor fireball that burnt up the ground. The opposition was sent back and several retreated via teleportation. I hoped it would be enough...

Another dart hit my left shoulder. I fell down ever so slowly. My vision blurred and I collapsed in exhaustion.

---

In my dreams, I saw a girl. She stood before me; skin like porcelain and a face like a doll. A simple white dress and silky black hair. Those grey eyes poured into mine and I felt sorrowful guilt.

Her expression was so hurt and face was empty of emotions except for pain, suffering and the like. I felt as though my heart was being torn out.

"I'm so sorry... I- I- just couldn't go on like that... anymore... but you still do... and I'm so sorry..."

No matter what I said, her features didn't change and she looked more lonely than ever. Trapped in place I had left her in...

Other girls started to appear, but their outlines were faint. Then they started disappearing when someone started shaking me...

...Quite literally, someone was shaking me.

"VIOLET!" Someone shouted at me roughly.

Well, it wasn't a shout, but this person was very close to me, so the whisper sounded like a shout.

"Kirito-kun?..." I voiced uncertainly. I saw a faint smile.

"You blacked out again... looks like I made it in time. You okay?" he asked me concernedly.

I was still laying on the ground, but he had wrapped his right arm around me to hold me up.

"What happened?... Did you... save them?" I questioned nervously. He confirmed my inquisition with a gentle smile and a light nod.

"Yeah. They're okay. Thanks to you of course... I hate to admit it, but if you weren't here, I couldn't have done anything..." Kirito confessed shamefully. I smiled and snuggled slightly in his arms.

"Looks like you've finally grown up. I like this modest side of you..." I teased him playfully and he shook his head while rolling his eyes.

"Whatever. And umm... they kind of invited me to celebrate... I thought it was kind of rude to refuse, so..." he trailed off embarrassed. I got the message and nodded my understanding.

"Go on. You deserve a break. Afterwards, maybe you should check on Asuna. I'm sure she's worried about you..." I stated softly. I managed to successfully mask my envious jealousy.

"I guess you're right... what about you though?..." he asked me still slightly worried. It was cute and endearing but I dismissed his regards politely.

"I have work to do. We'll meet up again soon enough. Go on, tiger. I'll be fine after a bit of rest," I assured him and he nodded his assent.

We parted ways after I recovered enough strength to stand. I caught him shooting me one last look back over his shoulder and I winked saucily causing him to turn around embarrassed.

I sighed openly. It had been a long night and quite eventful too. I just hoped the following days would be better.

A sudden pain throbbed in my head and just as quickly passed over. I needed to get back to work already...

---

"To Kirito! The man who saved our lives!" Everyone shouted.

We were on the 11th floor, in the town of «Taft». I sat there in the middle of the table awkwardly. I wasn't really up to being the center of attention right now. I could've really used a nice long night of sleep, but hey, what are you gonna do when there's a party in your favor...

"Ehh... right... to me..." I said embarrassed at everyone staring at me for my reaction.

The group of people I had just saved were a guild named, The Black Cats of the Full Moon.

It was a pretty small guild, comprised of only five members. The quick rundown was: Keita, the guild leader who wielded two-handed staves; Tetsuo, a mace-wielder who incidentally happened to be the only front line attacker on his team. To compensate, he also had a kite shield for protection. Sasamaru, a spear-user who provided support from the back; Ducker, the thief-class member of their group who was adept in detecting and disabling traps, along with finding loot and treasure chests. And finally, Sachi, the second support alongside Sasamaru; she had a small sword, a shield, and a staff. Apparently her role was multi-purpose depending on the situation.

"Don't be so shy, man! You're a hero! We so would've been wiped out without you!" said Sasamaru, the guy in the green. They raised their glasses to me and drank. I just barely took a sip.

"'Hero' is a strong term... I think that's what they call, 'helping'..." I muttered quietly. Normally I would've bragged but this wasn't the situation.

"Man, you're mad chill! And modest! You saved our hides and you just shoved it off like it was nothing! That's dope!" said an impressed Tetsuo, the guy dressed in purple.

"Trust me, I'm not always modest... and I've done riskier things..." I voiced barely audible. I just really wanted to get out of here as soon as possible...

"Really? Care to share?" Asked Ducker, the yellow-cloaked one enthusiastically. The grey beanie on his head emphasized his childish looks.

"It's too long a story..." I said dismissively.

"Guys, quit bombarding him with questions. It's rude. I'm sure he's still out of it, right?" Keita, the responsible looking one said. I barely nodded but that was enough of an answer.

"We're really glad you came and rescued us though. Thank you. Thank you so much," said Sachi, the only girl in the guild. Must be uncomfortable. Hmm... she looked too innocent to be a groupie... so I guessed it was alright.

"You're welcome... twice. I really didn't do much though, I just helped organize your battle formation..." I admitted quietly.

Previously, White Death had riled up multiple NPCs and lured them to these guys by having one of his members use «Howl». They escaped the cave afterwards, leaving there no one to take the aggression out on except for them. The Black Cats. Monster PKing was a cruel trap. Talk about being in the wrong place at the wrong time...

With the assistance of Violet, I managed to reach them in time to save them from certain peril. I slashed away at the fiend-like enemies and managed to reorganize them into an acceptable fighting formation. The rest was pretty easy from then on. I then was able to barely make it back in time to save Violet as well. For that, I was secretly thankful.

"Please accept our gratitude. If there is anything we could do to repay you..." Sachi trailed off. If I was really a messed-up pervert, I might've taken that out of context. However, being the mature character I am, I just dismissed it professionally like many things.

"There's no need. I just happened to be around... besides, I felt like I had to help anyhow..." I trailed off hiding the guilt. I put up a poker face of coolness and masked my true feelings. It was my fault... I would never get over the guilt had I made the other decision...

"Regardless, if there's ever a favor you need, we'll be there," Sachi said earnestly. I smiled sympathetically and waved it off.

"I'm really tired though... I should get going..." I stated formally and they rose to meet me.

"Oh come on, man, don't leave us like that..." Tetsuo said disappointed.

"Yeah, stay and teach us those cool moves you did back there," Sasamaru piped up.

"Come on guys, if he wants to leave that's his choice. We're in no position to pressure him into anything," Keita said reprimandingly for which I was thankful for.

"Right. I'll be on my way then. Out of curiosity, what were you doing in that cave anyway?" I asked slightly curious.

"We heard a rumor of rare treasure on the 30th floor. We just happened to stumble upon that place in particular while exploring," Answered Ducker with alacrity.

"Did you find it?" I asked wondering whether it was fruitful or not. I expected them to say no.

"Actually, yes. We did manage to get a good 5 bagfuls; one for each of us," Keita revealed holding up a bag from his inventory. A white glimmer shone and I identified the material as «Moonstones».

You've got to kidding me... I thought incredulously. I couldn't believe this at all, but I didn't let it show on my face. I can't believe they beat me there...

"Wow... that's fortunate. Well, maybe when I go back, I can scavenge some. Thanks for the info," I said and I almost managed to leave except Sachi grabbed my hand while I tried to hurry away.

"Wait! Would you- like to have a bag?..." she asked me shyly trying to read my expression.

"I appreciate the offer, but I'm fine. I'd rather work for my earnings," I said politely refusing her offer. She persisted however.

"Well, from our perspective, you did earn it. You saved us after all. Wouldn't this save you the time and effort to head back there? Plus it's dangerous..." she argued worried for my well-being. I sighed. No point in arguing with a girl.

"Fine. If it'll satisfy you..." I complied grudgingly. She appeared to be happier for her eyes brightened. Oh don't give me that expression... it's too endearing. Everyone went back to merrymaking seeing as I decided to stay around a while longer.

"Psst. Kirito! I know it's rude to ask," Keita whispered. "But what's your level?"

I was very sensitive with my personal information so I came up with a lie.

"Ehh... somewhere in the twenties? The last I checked I think 26 or so..." I said feigning uncertainty.

"Ahh. I see. That's pretty impressive. You're not much different from us, then. It's amazing how you've been solo all this time..." Keita admitted to me. I just passed this over without a second thought.

"...So what do you say to joining our guild then?" He slipped in subtly.

THAT was out of the blue.

It took a lot of effort not to put on a patronizing look of disapproval and scoff mockingly at his suggestion. Join a guild? I'll do that when I die...

...Still. A part of me welcomed this idea. Perhaps if I did have a guild today, I wouldn't have nearly met death...

...But at the same time, that's more lives that would be under my responsibility, and I had to question if I could take that. Let alone if I could handle the loss if I failed.

I decided to settle on a midway answer.

"I'm not all up for teamwork or anything, but I can make a deal with you. I get half of the profit you made today, and in return I'll train you guys to be... more adequate..." I said struggling slightly in the search for the appropriate adjective. Keita looked definitely positive at this offer.

"It's a deal! You hear that guys? Kirito's gonna train us to be as good as the frontliners!" He exclaimed confidently. The rest of the group ate up his words and shouted their excitement and approval. They clapped me on my back several times and we decided to call it a night. I was going to stay at their rented rooms, just for today at least.

"I wouldn't go THAT far with it..." I muttered to myself heading towards my room.

Rookies...

---

I lied there for a while just thinking about the agreement I just made. Great. More work. Though I supposed it wasn't all bad.

As the honorary 'unofficial' member of their group, I saw a long road ahead in training them. I could never see them reaching my level for that would take years at best. But perhaps they could at least reach decent...

I would've pondered some more, but then there was knock at my door.

In the game, knocking first was the only way to communicate or hear a sound from the inside to the out. Of course, there was a «Listening» skill that allowed you to bypass this and eavesdrop... perhaps I would invest in it if it proved useful in the future. You never know. Blackmail and leaked info could be very helpful. Maybe I could even surpass Argo and give her a run for her money.

"Kirito? It's me, Sachi," said person answered at the door. Why on earth is she still up? I got out of bed to answer anyway. I walked silently towards the door in my black socks and black pajamas with a black turtleneck sweater. Yeah, it was really colorful. I have an amazingly diverse taste in fashion.

"Is everything alright?" I asked opening the door. She was in her pajamas as well. White with a blue trim. She wore white socks and in the moonlight, she seemed to glow faintly. Her black hair was also straight and pretty. Not that I cared...

"Yeah... it's just... do you have a moment to talk?..." She asked nervously. I nodded and we sat down on the bed.

"So... what's on your mind?" I asked awkwardly. I didn't usually have girls over in my room and when I did, it always started off uncomfortably.

"It's just... I may have given you the wrong impression back there..." She said quietly and my curiosity was slightly piqued.

"What do you mean?" I wondered out loud at her statement.

"I'm... I'm actually afraid..." she revealed slowly. "I'm afraid to die... here in this place..."

I fell silent and more than slightly surprised. Why was she telling me this?

"I see... it's not that I don't understand, but why are you telling me this? I'm just some guy you happened to meet today. Why not your friends who you've known much longer than me?" I questioned reasonably. My logic wasn't unjustified.

"I would... but they're... well, they're different from me. They're not afraid. As matter of fact, they live as though they won't die. I could never have that confidence. To be so sure... so hopeful... I just remember the fact that so many people have died already... and more will follow..." she trailed off depressingly.

I hated to agree, but I had to. Facts were facts. I couldn't change it. But at the same time, I fought those facts. And I refused to give in. I would never give up. There was too much to lose...

"You're right... I won't deny that. But you have to be brave. You have to be strong, Sachi. Just think about your friends. Think about your family back home... don't you want to see them? I mean... aren't they worth fighting for?" I asked her gently and she slowly nodded. But I could see sadness residing in her eyes.

"I know that... but... what if it happens? What if push comes to shove, and I'm the one who's being shoved? Or worse, my friends will follow, and there was nothing that could be done?..." she asked me desperately. I grew a little angry at her weakness, but I kept my cool.

"So it's okay to just give up? Hide away, while the frontliners risk their lives? NO, it's not. Sachi, I'm going to tell you something I don't usually tell anyone. My parents are dead. It was an accident I never found out about until I was ten years old. I was lucky to be so young at the time, it didn't really affect me. But it slowly grew on me. I never thought I'd get a chance to feel the happiness of having a real family again... but I did. I was adopted, and brought in by my aunt and uncle. And... I had a 'sister'. But she's really just my cousin. I don't know if she knows, but regardless, I loved her. Being trapped in this game for half a year now? I realize that if I stay here, hiding away, I'll never get to see her again. She's done more for me than I ever did. You know how I responded in thanks? I ran away... not literally, but figuratively. Mentally. Emotionally... I cut myself off from everyone, even my own 'sister', who I used to hold so dear... no that's not right, I still do hold her dear, I just never showed my appreciation for her enough..."

It was a long speech, but I was far from done. I was going to make my point.

"That's what got me thinking. What could I ever do to make up for my mistakes? I left behind the most important person I ever knew... you know why? Because I'm a lot like you, Sachi... I'm afraid..."

That confession was hard to admit, but I did it anyway. She looked confused.

"But- but- back then, you seemed so strong, so brave. You're who I look up to, you're who I'm depending on now... you can't possibly be afraid..." she protested but I quelled her presumptions.

"It's all a lie. Or at least, it's based off a lie. I'm not as great as you think I am. Despite how tough I seem, how strong I fight, how cold I treat people in general I realize something: I'm still human. I can feel just as sad, angry, frustrated, depressed, guilty, and afraid as anyone else. And that's what I hate. I wished I could be strong, but I'm not. That's why I distanced myself from my sister. Because since I owed her, that meant I was too weak to care for myself. I hated being a coward, but I hated being weak even more. That's all I am today. A fighter who doesn't really have strength. He just hides in plain sight, biding his time, counting his regrets... I thought it was over for me... it was a path I never thought I could walk back from... but I was wrong... and I'm glad for that."

She seemed surprised at my words and I elaborated.

"I've met people in this game. People I call my friends. Honestly, I don't think I deserve friends, but you know what, maybe it's a sign. Maybe it's not too late for me to turn my fate around, and do right this time. That's my reason to fight. I am afraid of dying, I'll admit it. But there's something worth dying for. I hope it doesn't come to that, but I could accept it if it did. Regardless, I do want to see the end of this world. I want to come back home, and see my sister. And when I do, I'm going to make her the happiest sister in the world. I'm going to tell everything I held back, and that is:"

I paused for a moment.

"I love you, Suguha. There's no life without you. You are my family, that'll never change. I think you about everyday, and I'm gonna make you proud some day. Because I'm proud to have you as my family. My sister."

I let that sink into the silence that followed. It was a while before anything was said.

"Kirito?..." Sachi addressed after a long minute or so.

"Yeah?..." I responded hoping I hadn't scared her off.

"I'm glad I met you today," she said simply and I felt lighter as though a weight was lifted from within.

"I..." I wasn't really sure how to respond.

"I've known my friends for years. We're in the same PC club at school. I thought all that was over, but you've given me hope. I think I'm a little less afraid now. I hope I can live up to your standards and become as brave and strong as you one day," she finished.

I felt flattered but I couldn't accept her praise.

"You make me sound much more glorified..." I whispered humorously. She smiled at me.

"Maybe you can't see it, but I do. There's more to you than meets the eye..." she said. How true that was...

"You're right..." I agreed silently.

And maybe it's best you don't find out everything... I thought darkly to myself. An image of murder flashed through my mind, followed by a sudden throbbing pain that quickly dissipated as soon as it had appeared. What was that, what did it mean?...

"Hey, Kirito? Can I sleep in here with you tonight? I feel safer that way..." Sachi asked me. I had no qualms about this, so I agreed.

"Right. It's pretty late. Goodnight then, Sachi," I said bidding her to sleep.

"Goodnight Kirito-kun," she said quietly.

Then as I fell asleep, she muttered something else I couldn't hear.

"I think I... I think I love you...

---

The 30th floor was cleared after spending 6 days on it. I of course participated in both the meeting and the battle. Relatively, in terms of difficulty, it was a fair fight. The boss was a 15-foot deity named «Wolfic Night». An armor-clad warrior armed with a lengthy spear. However, Violet had no trouble in burning him to a crisp with her «Black Luster». Damn that sword was overpowered...

The 31st floor was relatively airy. There were wide open spaces and mountains stretching as far as you could see. Quite majestic. There were lakes, rivers and forests. The overall feel was tranquil and soothing.

That floor's boss turned out to be a huge giant called «The Pioneer». It wasn't a particularly difficult fight seeing as its speed was quite slow. Aside from the that, the only threat was its huge range of attack. What really shook us up was its mini-earthquake attack. Yes, that was a bad pun. Deal with it.

In the end, Violet set the arena on fire since it we were enclosed by wood. A particularly large piece of burning timber fell and squashed the giant beneath. I would never say this out loud, but Violet was on an impressive killing streak.

Finally we reached the 32nd floor. Almost a third of the way through. It was April of 2023. Six months since this game started. I don't know whether I should be happy or not, but I pressed on anyway. Things would never change if I didn't.

The 32nd floor was was quite hilly. It was an uneven landscape mostly and was difficult to navigate through. Still, at least the hills don't have eyes here...

I sat down in a bar with my 'teammates'. I would say guild members but I had a thing against that. Today, I would propose something I held back. Perhaps it would seem like I was just using them, but it was better for everyone, even if the Black Cats took some heat.

"So, Kirito. What did you want to talk to us about?" Keita asked me politely. I took a deep breath.

"Would you help me unite the betas with the other players?"

A/N And done. Once again, I'm sorry it took so long to post a chapter. But hey, tenth grade is at my door 24/7. I have homework that I should be doing... that I am doing right now... Anyways, I hope you enjoyed this chapter. Maybe it wasn't as good as the last chapter but that's alright. 17k, that's not bad. If it's any compensation, all chapters from now on will be at least 10,000 words. 3 more chapters until the next arc. Then it gets really good. You'll know why I named this fic, 'Alpha, Not Beta' then. In any case, thank you to all those who have read the entire thing so far, regardless of opinion. It also couldn't hurt if you left a polite review. ^_^ See you guys for now. Please R & R~