Chapter 29: The Prisoner

The tension in the main hall of the KoB headquarters was palpable as we entered. Heads all turned as we made our way forward to stand in front of Heathcliff and his advisors. I exchanged a knowing glance with the guild leader that went unnoticed by all except Lucifer and Caine. They simply ignored it and stood at my flanks.

"Ah, hello Abaddon. Thank you for coming on such short notice. I'm afraid we had no choice but to ask for everyone's assistance on this. The scope of the threat Laughing Coffin poses is beyond any one guild or player. This affects us all."

"No need to thank us. We want to be here. Are we the last ones?"

"Yes, with you we are now ready to begin. As I understand it from Asuna, your guild has intimate knowledge and experience with this particular group."

Murmurs erupted throughout the room at Heathcliff's claim. We remained unfazed by this, as we were intending upon revealing our true purpose ourselves.

"Yes, it is true that my guild has been hunting Laughing Coffin and any other red players since we were first established. That is why we were absent from the frontlines for those few months and why our actions often seemed strange."

The murmurs turned into a low roar as the top guilds grasped what I was saying. Heathcliff sat with a slight smirk on his face while everyone processed the news. Asuna and Kirito were silently observing as the chatter slowly died down. I turned to look towards Klein and the Fuurinkazan, begging them to forgive us with my eyes. The shock was evident on his face, however, I detected no sense of betrayal in his eyes, simply confusion.

"It is with this knowledge in mind that I request to take the lead on this meeting, as we three are uniquely qualified. Are there any objections?"

The murmurs ran through the room once more, however, no objections were raised. I was happy there were none, otherwise we'd have to waste time dealing with them.

"Good. Now one more thing before we begin. I don't know many among us here today have taken another player's life, whether it be in self-defense or any other situation. Those of you who have not, and even the rest of you, I want you to think long and hard about your resolve in this fight. Before this is over, you will take a life, of that you can be absolutely certain. Our quarry is ruthless, conniving, and bloodthirsty. Those of you who are unable or unwilling to take a life, I ask that you leave now, but do not go with shame. It is an immense burden not to be taken lightly and if you were to force yourself and hesitate in the moment, you would cost at least your life, if not the lives of many others."

My eyes searched the faces gathered around and looked for those who displayed any doubt. A small group off to my left nodded to each other and excused themselves from the hall. Two other solo players left as well, with the remaining gathered stoic in their decision.

"Do not shame those who've left. I envy their ability to choose, an ability I wish I could have spared my brothers and myself on many occasions. With that taken care of, we can get down to business."

I directed my attention to Heathcliff and his subordinates.

"What happened that led you to them? What did PoH do?"

The faces of many frontline players darkened at the question. Heathcliff's most of all, which struck me as odd.

"They eliminated a frontline guild that was acting as security for a group of midlevel players. The group was also wiped out; however, a plea was sent out for assistance and before the culprits could flee, another guild arrived on the scene and managed to capture one of them. We've since sent several messengers to negotiate with them, however, they've all been killed."

I could feel the breath catch in my chest. A frontline guild taken out was a big deal, elitism aside, it hurt our ability to progress. It was a small wonder Heathcliff was flustered and taking action. Despite who he truly was, I know that he still wanted us to make it through to the end.

"That son of a bitch. This wasn't a coincidence, he was targeting the guild to display his power. Killing the messengers was just icing on the cake. He's still fishing for us."

"What do you mean by that Abaddon?"

I looked over to Klein, my chest aching as I thought about all of it. All of the pain, death, and sorrow.

"We've been in a game of cat and mouse with PoH for many months now. Everything he has done and will do is in an attempt to draw us out and to him. It's personal."

"So it's all your fault? You're the reason I lost my friends? You all should have been locked up a long time ago, then none of this would be happening!"

I felt Lucifer and Caine tense up, their hands on their weapons. The meeting was descending into chaos before my eyes as the guilds and players split over the issue, making me feel like we were on trial. I could see Kirito and Asuna arguing on our behalf, as well as the entirety of Fuurinkazan.

"Enough! Shut your fucking mouths already!"

The room fell into silence, and I watched as all eyes in the room turned to Caine.

"If you think things would be better now had we not acted as we did, then you'd be dead wrong. Do you know how many red players we've each killed or imprisoned? I do. I'll never forget their faces, their screams, their bloodlust."

In abject horror, I watched the feeling recede from Caine's face and deep into himself. The war he was waging within himself was something I could only imagine. It was with cold concision that he stated his number.

"Thirty-four."

Lucifer's face was not as blank, however he followed Caine's lead.

"Thirty-one."

I found the player that had spoken out and locked his eyes with mine as I spoke.

"Thirty-six."

It was true we weren't the only ones to have ever taken a life, however, I doubt anyone expected just how many we had. I looked around the room as the information set in and everywhere eyes were diverted from us. Whether in fear, shame, or simply discomfort, it was hard to tell, but the effect was achieved all the same. They knew what we had invested and knew we were serious now, and that was all that mattered to either of us.

"Does anyone else want to put us on trial? Does anyone else think that we should have simply allowed them to live and continue? No? Good. Now keep your mouths shut unless it's something of use or importance."

I sighed deeply and put my hand on Caine's shoulder.

"That's enough Caine. I understand what you're saying, but there's no need to cause enmity amongst us. Please everyone, understand what it is my brothers have gone through and the level of importance that this event holds for us. We have not come to ask for your forgiveness, absolution, or approval, merely your help. So if you can stand to take orders and decisions handed down by the three of us, I welcome you to stay. Otherwise, I will again invite you to take your leave to ensure the safety of as many as possible."

I expected many more people to leave after that, however, no one moved. It seemed that Caine had said what they needed to hear to convince them of our cause. I breathed silent thanks that no one had left, and that we might have the power needed to finally end PoH and Laughing Coffin once and for all.

"Very well. Now we can begin. Has the prisoner been interrogated?"

Heathcliff spoke up.

"Yes, however, no information has been gathered from him. It would seem Laughing Coffin inspires rather formidable loyalty."

"That depends on the member; some are loyal, some are afraid. We'll take over the interrogation and determine the usefulness of the prisoner. Is there any other information on the guild or members?"

"I'm afraid not. The rest of the attacking party fled without a means of being traced. In essence, the prisoner is our only lead."

Caine ran his hand down his face while Lucifer chuckled to himself. I knew that to be the most likely case scenario, but I remained hopeful all the same. It couldn't be helped since the guild that reacted to the summons was most likely unfamiliar with their tactics.

"It's no matter. From here on out, my guild will be handling reconnaissance."

There was discord immediately. I knew my announcement would be met with resistance, so I patiently awaited the resolution. However, this matter was not one that was going to be as easy to put to rest. A certain second in command made that abundantly clear.

"Are you insane? You're just three people, and not to mention the fact that there are plenty here who are excellent information gatherers. We're not all here just to march into battle when you give the word. Now is not the time to be reckless and irresponsible, Abaddon."

I turned to look Asuna straight on and prepared myself for the coming argument. It was true that my statement was ridiculous, but then I intended for that very outcome. I knew that the best ideas and plans in this matter would come about from settled disagreements. Blind sheep were not the kind of soldiers that would ensure victory after all.

"What do you suggest? How many here have experience hunting criminal players? Let alone those associated with murder guilds? Are they all aware of the immense risks involved? Are their sources aware of the risks involved? Are the sources and the gatherers reliable? Most importantly, how can you ensure that sending out dozens of feelers won't just end up returning information PoH wanted us to get and lead to a trap?"

The room fell silent as everyone thought on my questions. I knew my plan and my answer to the last question, but her answer was what I awaited. Kirito was looking at me, trying to figure out just what I was scheming, and for his skepticism, I offered a slight smirk. I saw the slight drop of his head as he sighed and watched silently. Heathcliff, on the other hand, was maintaining a pensive appearance, but I knew that it was a ruse to mask his amusement.

"I can't answer all of your questions, at least not completely, but I think everyone here has an idea of what the risks are. If we establish a chain of information, I think we can avoid too much intervention by a possible spy."

I stroked my chin as I watched Asuna struggle to answer me. Kirito, ever the hero, decided to step in.

"Why don't you go ahead and tell us your plan Abaddon? I know you have one."

I threw my hands up and shrugged.

"You got me. As perceptive as ever Kirito, and that's why you're in the inner circle. I have in mind, a network of information communication that should hopefully maximize our chances of gathering what we need. I need everyone to leave the room save for guild leaders and solo players."

I saw quick conversations take place between the various guilds and slowly the majority of the room emptied out. I did a quick scan of the room and found Heathcliff, Kirito, Asuna, Klein, and various other guild leaders I didn't take the time to recognize. In total, there were twelve players remaining in the room, which suited my needs perfectly.

"Okay, next step. I can attest to the loyalty of seven of the twelve of us. Which means I require someone I trust to vouch for the five remaining guild leaders."

"There will be no need for that. All those present have been regular members of the assault team for some time now."

I looked towards Heathcliff and then to Asuna, who nodded in agreement. I allowed myself a slight smirk as I continued on.

"Good to hear. Now let's get down to business. Until we pin down a location for Laughing Coffin, no one knows all of the information, save my guild. I'm hoping this doesn't take long, but it's in our best interests to play the long game just in case. Before there are arguments about my guild, I'll point out a simple fact. PoH wants the three of us to himself, so none of his lackeys will target us for information, only for an ambush which would include PoH and his elites. Everyone else is fair game as far as he is concerned, so they are likely to be targeted for capture if word gets out that we're hunting for him."

I looked around the room and found that everyone more or less agreed with my plan thus far. It was my hope that this system was unnecessary and we could get what we wanted from the prisoner, but I had my doubts about that. I turned to each of those present before speaking again.

"Now I know there isn't much structure at the moment, but for now use your guilds and your resources as you see fit to gather as much intel as you can and return it directly to a member of my guild. Try and keep a tight leash on your gatherers. For now, we'll go and visit with the prisoner to see what we can dig up."

Everyone nodded in agreement and the three of us departed from the meeting hall. Asuna and Kirito followed behind, then Asuna took the lead as we headed to the dungeons. After a few minutes of halls and stairways, we finally reached a guarded door where the prisoner was being held. Asuna nodded toward the guards who then opened the door to let us in. The cell was nondescript with only a candelabra attached to the wall to provide any light. The prisoner sat in the corner with his hands bound behind him.

"Hello there. Care for a little chat?"

His head shifted up enough to see who it was before a quiet chuckle escaped his lips. It soon evolved into full laughter which made my skin crawl.

"Well well well. Hello again Reapers. Long time no see. I missed you guys. Tell me you remember me. Otherwise I might just break down in tears."

I merely shrugged and shook my head.

"Sorry pal, can't say that I do. You guys know him?"

"It's Gant. One of PoH's lackeys. He was there the first time I met PoH. Him and XaXa."

"That's the spirit Reaper of Earth. What a wondrous duel that was too. I was beside myself. I was also there on…that day."

Gant started laughing hysterically again and forced me to grit my teeth as the sound grated on my nerves. We all knew what day he was referring to, but that wasn't going to shake us like it would have a few weeks ago.

"So then you know what we're about and just how determined we are. You going to spill on your friends? Would be a kindness after all, allowing them to experience a fight with us again."

"Oh I don't know about that. The boss told me to get under your skin and make you tap into that feral spirit of yours. You think I'm here against my will Reapers? No, I have a mission. Until you tap into that beautifully destructive side of yourselves, there's nothing I can do to help you."

Gant looked up with a large smirk on his face. Asuna put her hand on my shoulder, but I shrugged it off before reaching down and yanking Gant up onto his feet. His smirk turned into a full smile as Caine and Lucifer held Asuna and Kirito back. I leaned in close and showed him a smile of my own.

"You wanna get feral huh? I have just the thing. There's a small lake just outside of Granzam right boys?"

"Yep. That's very true."

"We haven't tried that yet. Usually don't need to get that creative. Think they'll let us take him out there?"

"Come now Caine, weren't you in the meeting? This is our operation and by extension, this is our prisoner."

"Abaddon, whatever you're thinking, stop. You can't leave with him, especially not outside of a safe zone. The Commander will never allow it, and it's stupid."

I turned to Asuna and gave her a deadpan stare. Something close to fear registered in her eyes as I stood silently.

"Results, Asuna, are not obtained through doing nothing. If you can't stomach what is about to happen, then excuse yourself and stop interrupting. Meanwhile, we have some…interrogation to attend to. Lucifer. Caine."

They pushed Asuna and Kirito aside as I led the prisoner toward the door. A hand gripped my shoulder as I passed, and I turned to see Kirito looking at me.

"Is this really what has to happen? Or is this what they want to happen? Won't he just give us information meant to lead us into an ambush?"

"Silly Black Swordsman. The boss is already on high alert, no matter if I give up the info or not. If it makes you feel any better, he'll never know when."

Kirito's eyes went wide as he looked at Gant. I couldn't blame him, the lunatic truly wanted me to torture him, and that only made the whole situation all the worse. I steeled myself against the thoughts as they poured through my mind at the horror of what was about to occur. Now was not the time to get soft in the face of Laughing Coffin, and even more importantly, PoH.

"It has to be done."

I offered nothing more as I shoved Gant through the doorway and past the confused guard. Little resistance met me as I marched towards the front gates of the KoB HQ and out towards Granzam. Whether it was through the actions of Asuan, or the look on my face, I wasn't sure, but it didn't matter in the end, so long as I got what I wanted. Though, what Heathcliff thought of all this was a matter that crossed my mind as we left their HQ.

"Now I don't want a scene, so act normal and try not to piss me off. Lucifer and Caine will be keeping close, so no funny business."

"Oh no need to worry about me Reaper of Hell. After all, I have a mission to complete."

I turned from his insane smile and pulled him forward as Lucifer and Caine covered the rear and left flank. I wasn't expecting anyone to actually attack, but it paid to be cautious, that and I didn't want an audience for what was about to happen, so it was with great effort that we avoided crowds and onlookers as much as we could manage. It took much longer than I would have liked, but we managed to leave the town and turned our sights toward the lake in the distance. Gant managed to disgust me even further as the sight of the lake made him quiver in unmistakable glee.

We marched silently toward the water's edge, weary of spectators and attackers alike. The tension was palpable and heavy as our reflections came into view and we came to a stop. I looked at Lucifer, then Caine with knowing eyes and after a few moments, I pushed Gant forward and deeper into the water. The twisted bastard was humming a tune as the three of us encircled him in waist deep water. Caine and Lucifer stood ready for any mobs that might spawn while I focused solely on Gant.

"It's finally time Reaper. Show me what you're made of."

"Tell me where PoH is hiding Gant. There is no need for this and you know it."

"No no no no. That's not how this works. You know the rules."

I sighed and thrust my hand forward, gripping his throat and following through until I was holding him under the surface of the lake. I could still see that damn smile of his as he waited for the oxygen countdown to run its course. I was annoyed by that aspect of SAO, but it only made sense since this was still, more or less, a game. After the timer hit zero, I saw his mouth gulp water and his body started to shake. His HP dropped continually as I held him under the water and his thrashing intensified. I wasn't sure how accurate the sensation of drowning was in here, but I was certain that it wasn't pleasant regardless.

"How long do you think I should go?"

"Where's his HP at?"

"Around three quarters. Bastard's got a lot of health."

"All the better. Pull him up and the go longer next time. I think we ought to give him something to look forward to don't you?"

"Sure. Why not?"

I yanked Gant up out of the water and held him as he sputtered and took in large breaths. It was strange when he didn't spit anything up, but that was SAO for you. I waited until his breaths started to slow.

"Feel like talking yet?"

"Not even close."

I shook my head as I shoved him back under the water and held him.

(A/N): I'm calling it here for now. Felt like a reasonable place to stop and I didn't want to let this chapter get too out of hand and leave me high and dry for the next one. I'm curious as to what you guys thought about the whole drowning thing in SAO. That's how I thought it might go, but what do I know? Rate and review if you please and let me know your thoughts on the story thus far. Until next time.