A/N: Welcome to Souls of Fire...Garr did nothing wrong :3
Shout out as always to my reviewers!
NetherOrbit: I love bringing surprises :D Hope Wick lives long!
Theawesomess: The frogs? They're Pepe's family...out for revenge.
ItsJustCrow: Gwyn's theme...:( you're gonna get a Riposte to the feels man. Honestly though, a BKUGS?! He's stronger than Garr!
Thunderwolf: You're Totally not a Leafa fan :P
ALSO! Guys, been reading this recent fanfiction called 'SAO: The Others'. It's got quality material, a non-Mary Sue protagonist, and a survivalist approach! Written by bitchbot, give it a try! :D
Enjoy!
Sitting on that bench, I glanced around the waiting room. The lobby was small, dimly lit, its stonework mossy. Was designated to red team, would be facing off with blue in a few minutes.
"Aw, Leafa brought puppy again..."
The voice announcing this was deep, the lack of eloquence straining from a distance. Looking back, a towering superman in steel leaned over, not a single part of him was exposed. Guess in the arena they showed the names of players on your team, his was Lox.
What kind of food did they sell out here?! This guy was another six foot monster of a man! Had to be six five, and all muscle...something he was very aware of. He leaned over Wick, poking the guy's shoulder, nudging the wafer like a thug.
"You mad?" he mocked.
Wick looked away, trying to avoid conflict with the illiterate gorilla.
"Speak, runt! You still dressed like clown!"
He again said nothing, looking more interested in being elsewhere than talking back. The anger in Lox drove him to grab, lifting Wick off the bench like a doll!
"Stupid, don't make me throw you! Talk, say something funny!"
Getting off my seat, I walked straight up to Lox, his shadow enveloping me like a storm cloud.
"What kind of snowflake cock sucker beats on the weak?" I roared.
The giant stopped, looking down at me from his great height. As angry as I was...I may have felt a bit doubtful.
"What was that?" he growled, "Heard you speak."
"What you heard was the dick leaving your ear, pussy!" I grilled him, "Put him down!"
"And who the fuck are you?" he laughed, "This faggot's boyf...erm... boyfri"
"...boyfriend." I answered.
"Yes, that!" he snapped.
Words obviously meant nothing to this monolithic stack of dog shit. Just as he said that, I punched him right in the knee!
My left gauntlet stuck steel, but I was the one left recoiling! Jeez, what were his stats? He laughed again, raising that leg and kicking me off my feet! Safe Zone, forgot about that.
"You funny." he chuckled, "Tiny man talking like he big."
Sheesh, this guy was knocking me around like a bowling pin. He growled, stomping his way over to me. As the light of the torches left, he pointed a finger down at me.
"I don't like your attitude, tiny." he put a foot on my groin.
"If I said I'm sorry, I'd be lying." I retorted.
"Huh?"
Ugh, this guy was a total moron!
"I'm. Not. Sorry."
Judging by how angry he got from that, I was starting to think this was a bad idea. Kicking me in the side, he grabbed me by the collar and threw me against a wall! My brass armor clacked as it struck stone, but the system's protection again preventing injury.
Getting up, I saw him raise a middle finger.
"Hope you fight good." he turned away.
I flipped him off right back, screw him. As I sat back down, Wick approached me on the side, careful to not alert anyone.
"H-Hey...thanks." he whispered.
"For what, the fact you won't stand up for yourself?" I snapped.
He was speechless, looking surprised by my question.
"Come on, why not?" I challenged.
Wick frowned, looking at me as if disappointed.
"Answer me." I got annoyed, "You shouldn't let him push you around."
No answer, the Halloween colored warrior turning away.
"Fine, be that way." I dismissed.
Red team wasn't looking so good. So far it was me, bovine brained knight, a shy-guy, and two guys in uniform. Asking them got me the answer that they're HDA, huh. Kymer would eat these chumps for breakfast.
[Warning: Friendly Fire is on during arena matches. Matches are non-lethal!]
Wonderful, might "accidentally" jab the brute. Better yet, beat him to submission using that Recon guy. I chuckled, imagining that lanky body flailing as I thrashed it against that oversized ape.
A loud horn blew in the room, a grated gate opening. Everyone moved in, everyone expect Lox going at the pace of cattle. Ugh, why'd everyone walk so slow? Forcing my way through the crowd, the clack of my armor made my presence easy to spot.
As the end of the winding stone hall was a stairway, sunlight leaking through. Turning the corner, the arena was revealed. Behind a grated ferric gate rested a stadium of sand and gravel, barren compared to the overgrown jungle just past the Colosseum walls.
The rest of my team caught up, packing into the little chamber. The roar of hundreds of people stirred me, fueling me.
"I thought people don't come here." I looked to Wick.
He glanced back at me, a bit skittish at first.
"They...don't. But there's a warp at Floor one, let's you come by to gamble."
"It doesn't let you leave the seated areas, plus Corridor Crystal use's disabled. If it weren't for this, we'd have more fighters."
"Huh...can imagine it's popular." I looked back.
"Very...used to do that myself."
"Ohhh a betting man." I smiled, "There's a thrill to that, if only my luck was any good past combat."
"Tiny men talk too much." Lox groaned, "Wish you were on other team."
"Feeling's mutual, big guy." I callously spat.
"Hey..." Wick nudged, "Don't worry about dying here...it'll warp you back to the Arena healing center if you're defeated."
"Hm...good to know." I nodded, "Thank you."
The trumpets and cheering died down, the air left idle from the initial blast. A floating stone stand hovered to the center, its means of levitation unknown to me. With hands raised, an announcer waved to the droves of viewers.
"People of Aincrad, it is a beautiful day in the SAVAGE jungles of Croy!" the announcer cheered, "Give me one minute, your votes are coming in right now!"
Votes?
"And the results areee." the announcer called, "Shroom Grotto, Humid, peaceful!"
"Heh, peaceful good." Lox chuckled, "No monster hurting me."
Before I could say anything, the arena floor shook violently, panels of it vanishing into a colorless abyss. Seconds later, new pieces formed. The ground turned dark and swampy, great mushrooms the size of trees sprouting. Vents from the walls of the arena exhaled steam, the landscape glistening.
"Ugh...now I'll get wet." Lox grumbled.
"Alright then, good people! Lower the gates, may the bloodletting begin!"
The grated gate fell through its slit, a horn blaring! Wick and Lox took opposite sides, the guildies taking center. Summoning Ironback, I tried assessing the situation, only to have an arrow flung my direction!
It narrowly missed, its sender across the arena, spotting me from an opening between the mushroom trees. Racing into the fungal brush, I heard the whistle of more arrows, one bouncing off my vambraces!
I hid behind a shroom, peeking out on each side. This strange dandelion-like pollen fluttered down, some touching me. Couldn't be good, so I moved on, the clash of blades and blunt metal were muffled by the cheers of our onlooking crowd.
Pits of strange green fluid dotted patches of this grove, looked viscous. My first opponent was found, non-sword user. Embers floated in his hands, flinging them at me the second eye contact was made!
I rolled left, the mushroom behind me hissing as the wayward flame met its trunk. I glanced back, throwing my hatchet, missing his face! The mage raced towards me, cupping both hands as if holding a ball.
Ironback was swung, a [Cleave] forcing him back!
"Holy frack, that's a sword?!" the mage yelled.
That's when I felt a jab behind my leg, causing me to buck, the weight of my own Ultra Greatsword further fumbling me. I rolled forward, tackling the mage back as I turned.
Was freaking Recon, dashing away into another pocket of the arena, he was throwing nails at me! Felt like syringes, nearly tapping my thigh bones as I tore them out! God, teared up a bit, pulling those out. Pain...weakness leaving the body.
Sadly he ran back, would have to chase him and the damn fire mage was getting back up. His cupped hands opened, a spherical blast of heat sending me back several feet!
Armor saved me from great damage, absorbing the heat. He ran back, throwing another handful of blazing lights! Using Ironback like a shield, I held the blade wide, the fireballs sizzling as it struck steel. Couldn't let him keep firing, had to close in!
I ran right, dashing between mushrooms, the sound of Recon's freaking nails bouncing against brush alerting. The pyromancer got behind a shroom, the sound of crackling flames warning. But that was okay.
His idea of cover was cute.
Making a hard stop on the other side of the mushroom's trunk, I unleashed a [Front Punch]! My Abyssteel gauntlet rammed through the plant, leaving me with the mage's throat!
I grabbed that tender esophagus, yanking it back through the hole I made through the damn trunk! Squishy Old One worshiper yelled in shock, desperate in his struggle to escape. After the fourth ram, however, a snap was heard, the mage turned to dust in my hands.
"Ooooh, brutal!" the announcer proclaimed, "THIS is what the people want!"
One down.
"Damn..."
I turned, another mook! Ripping my arm out of the trunk, I raised Ironback, smug in my expression.
Then an arrow flew by, jamming in my left shoulder! I groaned, Ironback falling to my right hand. Dammit, missile left me with only one good arm, forcing me to sidestep as my katana wielding foe closed in!
I gasped, the arrowhead bobbing as I steered myself from the razor sharp edge! Throwing my hips one side, I managed to send a [Down Chop] with just one hand, the Ultra's massive weight pitching me forward as it struck Earth!
The second it landed, my foe thought it was a good time to close in. I rebuked, throwing Ironback forward, launching the blade up and over with a [Catapult]! The ambush caught him off guard, the Ultra lifting him over me, cutting right into his groin before slamming him into a nearby shroom!
I dropped my sword, ripping the arrow out. That's when I forgot about [Ares]. The defeat of that Samurai sealed my wound, but kept the damn shaft stuck in my arm! God, I could feel the muscle and flesh tear anew as I jerked the thing back, grunting as it pried loose. Had to find new health sources, that pull caused [Bleed] on me.
Shouldering Ironback, I ventured for new threats. Recon was nowhere to be seen, hope he got wrecked. After a minute of wandering, I bumped into Ms. Third place, Leafa.
"Hey!" I roared at her.
Leafa's eyes locked on me, her katana readied in front of her.
"One v one?" she called.
"Yea, bring it." I grinned.
"Recon?" she shouted, "No interrupting, he's mine!"
"But I wanna fight him, prove to you that I'm better!" I heard him whine from behind a trunk.
"When you're done sneaking on me?" I yelled, "Man up!"
The skimpy guy finally showed his face. A curved dagger rested in his right hand, in his left...a coin? The hell was that for?
"Recon, why're you using that?" Leafa demanded, "Put it away, this is a one v one!"
"Yea, but I'm not stupid. He cheats."
"What?" she blinked, "How?"
"I've seen him, recovering from wounds whenever he hits someone."
"He's right, but you wouldn't believe the downsides." I smirked, "Do whatever."
Recon chuckled, flipping the coin. Landing right back in his hand, I felt something strange. My body, it just...felt so weak. Looking, I realized the problem, he cut my HP in half!
[Cursed], halves my health...what kind of witchcraft was this?
"Ha, got a good flip." he smiled, "Now to finish the job."
Yup, he was asking for it. Lunging right at the little bitch I swung low, looking to clip the knees! Recon leaped up, hopping over the ground sweeping sword. The second he dropped, he lunged with the knife, poking me on the arm.
Minimal damage...but damage nonetheless. The curved dagger scraped my arm, my limb shielded by steel, forcing me back as I swung again! [Cleave], [Down Chop], stepping back and throwing a [Mass Driver]!
Sheesh, Recon was fast as hell! He just kept dodging, typical rogue build stuff right there. He kept going for the hole in my breastplate too, wanting to score that stab.
"Stupid oaf, you're too slow!" Recon laughed, "I can see your strikes a mile away!"
Growling, I kept trying to strike the friggin hamster. [Rising Sun], [Slam], [Rising Sun], nothing was hitting him! Huffing, I lowered the sword to a ready stance. He scratched me again, scoring another sliver.
That's when he threw another one of his stupid nails.
"Recon, what about honor?" Leafa argued.
"His rules!" Recon chuckled, "I'm just beating him at his own rules!"
God, had to tear another fracking nail from my leg! After my tenth swing, I was officially done. I lowered the Ultra again.
"Aw, big guy's getting tired." the twig mocked.
I dropped Ironback, raising hands instead.
"What the-"
"You're right."
Recon smirked, rushing me with his dagger with several quick jabs. I kept stepping back, his agility scoring a couple free shots on my crippled frame. Thirty percent, he wanted that stab. What if I gave it to him?
Opening my guard, I gave him a clear view of the gap, the hole in my defense. Eager to stab, Recon lunged right for it!
Watching that sliver of steel fly forward, I grabbed him by the wrist, snatching it like a breaching fish! Recon's skinny little wrist was caught, my hand twisting it the instant I had grip! His whole body lurched, fighting back against my will, a futile effort.
"The hell!?" he shrieked, "Let go!"
Lifting his hand, I shoved the elbow backwards, giving his arm a swift sagittal twist! A loud snap broke out, the limb limp as it hung past the elbow, left vestigial from a brutal tug.
"W-What?! What'd you do?!" he screamed, "Why can't I use my knife?!"
Smiling, I kicked Recon in the knee, forcing him to a kneeling stance. Drawing Renee's hatchet, I slashed the crown of his shoulder, the axehead digging into his unprotected frame.
Recon punched my leg, but only succeeding in bumping armor.
"I'd tell you to fight honorably."
I pulled, feeling the arm tear. Recon yanked back, panicked as he cried out in disbelief.
"But then I'd be a hypocrite."
With that, Recon's arm was ripped from its socket. The little prick screeched in surprise, funny thing that none of these worms felt pain. Watching him fall on his back, staring up at me, I knew what had to be done.
"OH!" the announcer called, "Brutal!"
He had no idea, didn't need Ironback for this. Raising the severed limb, I slammed it against its owner, whipping little Recon with his own arm! The sound of it squishing as bone and meat met skull, the crowd hollering euphorically, the simplicity of it all.
The crowd was just going nuts! Smack after slap, the thief's health dwindled till roughly five percent. The moment it did, his frame vanished in a red cloud of glass. Smirking, I dropped the limb. Bout' time he stopped flinging nails at me.
Oh right, had to fight Leafa. Turning back, she couldn't have looked more shocked. Her lips trembling as she raised her weapon.
"Did I mention I'm hypocritical?" I smiled.
"Kill, kill, kill, kill!" the crowd rabidly called by chant.
"We may have a new crowd favorite!" the announcer proclaimed.
"W-Why would you do that? That was...completely overboard." Leafa grimaced.
"I'll explain later, raise your sword." I dismissed.
That [Cursed] status effect remained, not good with her weapon of choice being a [Katana]. Nodding, she put her game face back on. Keeping a low guard, she shuffled around, pacing me.
I shouldered Ironback to a high guard, keeping her back with the occasional [Cleave].
"Tiny man!" I suddenly heard, "You steal attention, fight me!"
A second later, an arrow lodged right into my thigh, forcing me to kneel! Groaning, I cursed as I reached back.
"Lox!" Leafa shouted.
I swerved, just a second long enough to see a chained flail's ball...the size of a yoga ball. I couldn't even speak, my torso struck and crushed by the oncoming boulder. Falling on my back, I choked as my ribs were shattered like glass.
Couldn't even breath, the broken bones stabbing my guts as they floated inside. Looking up, that boar of a man stood before me, laughing as I twitched.
"Your legs, they move funny, like squashed bug." He raised his boot, "Good game...scrub."
Felt another arrow, my body collapsing into a blackened void. Didn't even get to fight his teacher.
Souls of Fire
"Such a beautiful day." Yuuki cheered, dancing around in the tall grass.
Lisbeth smiled, holding up a partially eaten ice cream cone. The great plains of Floor One surrounding them.
"Forsooth!" Godfree laughed, "Specially with this." he raised his cone.
"I admit, I didn't think ice cream would be a thing." Leopon tilted, "Guess ice mages do have a benefit."
Asuna remained quiet, licking away at the bowl of flavors Lisbeth bought her. From Raspberry Truffle to Birthday Cake and Chocolate, she kept distracted from her memory.
"Definitely!" Silica stated, "Might take up ice magic to make more, ice cream makes people happier."
"You alright, Asuna?" Lis licked, "Seems you really like the bowl."
Asuna's face turned flush.
"N-No!" she stammered, "I'm...gonna be done eating it after another spoon."
"Why?" Lis questioned, "You're not gonna gain weight here."
"But...if I don't stop, I'll look like a pig." Asuna frowned.
"Depends how you do it." Lis put an arm around her, "While sure, real life has its limits, just take it slow."
Asuna sighed, not liking the advice.
The flavors help distract me. The moment they stop, the memories come back. I can't cry, leaders can't do that.
"So Asuna, how long are you gonna stay?" Yuuki scooted next to her, "Clearing work must keep you so busy!"
A vice gripped the commander's stomach, a reminder the sweets in her hands couldn't take. Asuna stopped, fingers clutching the porcelain bowl, the nails gripping.
"Um, you okay?" Yuuki softened, "Did I say something?"
Asuna shook her head, forcing herself to keep walking.
"Hey..." the newest party member tugged, "What's wrong?"
Lisbeth frowned, keeping close.
This was Asuna's business, was her choice whether or not she wanted her to know.
"I'm...not gonna fight anymore." Asuna stated, little gasps indicating a storm brewing.
"Huh?" Yuuki blinked, stopping Asuna.
"I said it, I'm done." the commander winced, forcing back the tears.
"Leading is something strong people do, not me."
"That's not true." Godfree argued, stepping beside Yuuki, "Commander, you earned the respect of every one of us, even Kibaou listened to you...usually."
"None of you should." Asuna's emotional dam broke, "I've failed you, all of you!"
Taking off at lightning speed, the former commander raced along the stone path, only Yuuki able to keep up with her.
"Stop!" Yuuki shouted, "Don't do it!"
"Leave me alone!" Asuna decried, "Leave, I don't wanna hurt anyone!"
"You will though! Your friends are here for you!"
Asuna shrugged off the comment, looking for somewhere to stop the thoughts.
"You don't have to do this!" Yuuki cried back, "Please, I've lost two of my best friends that way!"
Asuna ran through the low leveled forest, spotting a lake resting just past the foot of a northern mountain range.
Mother was right, I am worthless. I don't do anything right. My best friend Lis hates me, everyone I've led is dead, I wasn't supposed to be here! I just want it to stop!
Turning to the lake, Asuna kept going, ready to sink into the blue of those waters. Just as her feet hit the water, Yuuki tugged her right back.
"Stop!"
Asuna blinked, looking back to her captor.
"Why would you think that's the right choice." Yuuki stammered, "Tell me!"
"It's because I'm..."
"Worthless?" Yuuki finished.
Asuna paused, looking back to her friend. The two stared at each other for a few moments, nothing but the wind to halt silence.
"You shouldn't say that about yourself." Yuuki continued, "Never."
"B-But, I failed them." Asuna looked away, "Why was it they died, instead of me? They had to go home!"
"And you?" Yuuki questioned.
"It doesn't matter."
"I've heard that all the time." Yuuki shook her head, "Asuna, I know it's a bit rushed, but I feel you should know."
Asuna kept her gaze on her, Yuuki keeping a hold of her arm.
"I lead a group back in town, very nice people." the purple haired warrior explained, "We play the part of protectors, guarding the weaker players from the tougher monsters."
Yuuki's face lowered, sighing before looking back to the commander.
"I've lost friends to this place, friends I've known since I was six. New monsters have been showing up, really weird ones."
"Nori and Merida." she shook her head, "I led them too, I failed to protect my friends."
Asuna quivered, trying to find a response.
"I know how hard it must feel, but you talk like a leader." Yuuki frowned, "You love your people, it shows from the things you say."
"Believe me, that will help you when you escape this place." she smiled, "Asuna, I can't speak on you too deeply, but your reputation in town is unquestioned, you're our hero."
"Maybe I'll join you someday in clearing floors." Yuuki looked to the mountains, "But not now, not when people need protecting."
"Shouldn't the ALF be doing that?" Asuna questioned.
"They do...long as it remains within the eyesight of town." Yuuki shrugged, "Once you travel further though, you're on your own."
"Ah." Asuna nodded, "It's...okay now. You can let go."
"Asuna!" distant voices called.
The two looked, spotting the rest of their party catching up.
"Gosh you run fast." Lisbeth sighed, slowing to a halt. "You had us all worried!"
"Aye, many thanks, Yuuki." Godfree gasped.
"I'm...sorry for running." Asuna bowed, "I wanted the pain to stop."
Silica ran in, the last to arrive. Holding the ceramic bowl Asuna dropped, the twin tailed girl offered it back, her eyes soft and sweet. Looking into it, the ice cream was still solid, thanks to game mechanics.
Asuna accepted the offering, the silver spoon awaiting use. Lisbeth opened her menu.
[To Garr: Hey baby, just letting you know I'm gonna stay back for another day. Asuna really needs us, I promise I'll come back soon.]
Closing the menu, Lis looked back up those mountains.
"You know, Asuna?" she smiled, "This is pretty close to where we met."
Asuna blinked, her eyes recognizing a patch of forest to the right.
"You're right." she smiled a little.
"Can I show you something?" Lis insisted gently, "There's a place up in those mountains, very special for me."
"Sure." Asuna nodded, "Long as everyone else is okay with it."
The rest agreed, with minor exception to Silica.
"It'll get cold up there, wouldn't it?" Silica grimaced.
"Do not fret, squire." Godfree assured, passing her a winter coat.
Unfortunately, this apparel was fitted for his size, thrice Silica's. The adventurer vanished into that coat, her little red eyes shining beneath the over sized cowl.
"Aw, Silica looks so cute." Leopon grinned, "Godfree, why don't you carry her up there?"
"N-No!" Silica squeaked, "Only Teika can do that."
"How about me then?" Lis elbowed.
Silica stammered a bit, but eventually nodded. Bending over, the blacksmith scooped her friend up, cradling her in the folds of Godfree's winter coat. They ascended up the slope, Lisbeth smiling with nostalgia. While the mountain peak lacked snow, the horizon was clear as truth.
"Wow..." Asuna stared out over the view.
"Isn't it great?" Lis smiled, easing Silica down.
"Wish I saw stuff like this back home." Yuuki noted, "Problem is, I wouldn't wanna leave!"
Lisbeth's eyes trailed back to the broken tower, fond memories trickling back like a rain of sugar.
"Hast thou ever visit Austria?" Godfree looked.
"No, but I heard it's beautiful." Leopon glanced.
"Nay!" the Nordic warrior laughed, "That's where I first got drunk!"
Silica giggled, Asuna and the others looking at Godfree, perplexed by his mirth.
"Aye, don't mind me." he chuckled, "Just lightening the load for thee."
Asuna smiled as he looked away, snapping her gaze back to Lis.
"So is this the special spot?"
"No actually, it's over there." Lis pointed to the dilapidated tower.
Leading them through its rotted wooden doors, Lisbeth's smile grew. The stairwell, fireplace, it was all there.
"Huh, just an intro dungeon." Yuuki shrugged, "Helps players learn basics."
"Not just that." Lis explained, "This is where I met Garr. As unlikely as that sounds."
"It was a really cold night. Was so tired of the negativity back in town, you know during the first weeks here?"
Godfree felt the stone, grimacing at how cold it all felt.
"He was sleeping in front of the fireplace, shivering like a puppy." Lis frowned, "So I went out to get him firewood."
Yuuki smiled, captivated by the story. Silica inspected the stairwell, squirming when she found the wood splintery.
"Got the wood, started the fire up again. Was planning to just leave afterwards, but then I heard his voice."
"Wait, wait." Yuuki interjected, "Why was he out here? He could've just walked back to town."
"He started off on a bad foot." Lis looked to the door, "Made some mistakes early on, Kayaba wasn't exactly fond of him."
"The Cursed Man." Yuuki concluded, "That's him, right?"
Lisbeth nodded, her curly pink hair bobbing.
"Oh wow! You must be a strong woman."
Lisbeth laughed.
"It was tough, our cultures were a bit different." she fawned, "But I'm very happy with him."
"Can you tell me where he is?" Yuuki cheered, "Sorry, I just...I promised myself I'd at least try and duel him...though I think I'd rather go training mode with him."
"Wouldn't wanna hurt him, specially since you and him...ya."
"Alright, just be sure you tell him 'Rika sent you'."
"Who's Rik- oh that's your name." Asuna stopped, "Say, why didn't you pick that for your username?"
"Cause I didn't wanna be tracked." Lis shrugged, "Wait...did you?"
"Uhh..."
"Dammit, Asuna!" Lis laughed, "Why would you use your own name!?"
"Well I...kinda borrowed it from my brother. He didn't make a character yet, so I made my own."
"Hm." Yuuki rubbed her chin, "Well with that note, where is he?"
"Floor Seven, placed called the [Monster Arena]." Lis instructed, "He'll be the really buff one in brass armor, biggest sword there, can't miss him."
"Sorry Asuna, I'll be back in a bit!" Yuuki gave a thumbs up before racing off, leaving a dust trail where she once stood.
"Yuuki isn't one to slow down, is she?" Silica pondered.
"Guess not." Lis blinked, surprised by the swordwoman's speed, "Oh well."
"She's so bubbly, I like her." Leopon sat, "Jeez, think I'd rather sleep in an alley than here."
"Commander?" Godfree's voice softened.
Asuna looked, her eyes on his.
"I was pondering..." he struggled, "There's a mountain I love to scale, would thou...like to hike hither with me?"
Surprised by the request, Asuna paused. Lisbeth, however, was smiling.
Go for it...come on. Ironic though, a date being asked in the same tower Garr asked me out.
Asuna stood, the fearless commander stumped by the question.
Souls of Fire
Ugh, what happened? Felt warm, was floating. Opening my eyes, a stone ceiling greeted me, my breathes so small, even a hummingbird would've been found wanting.
I was in a pool, a greenish water enveloping me. I felt myself, skin. My armor was gone, clothes, weapons! I grabbed my skin, rubbing it instinctively. It's not gone, thank God. I felt my ribs, but jerked them back the second I touched!
Broken, by Lox's weapon. I couldn't remember what it was, but it made a complete joke out of my armor. Wait, wasn't I struck with arrows? The fact I could even move my arms without grief settled that dispute, no. I tried turning.
I nearly screamed, feeling the fragmented ribs poke my insides. God, whatever hit me, I'd better dodge next time. Wait, my HP...it was regenerating. Slowly but undoubtedly, the meter went from yellow to green.
I smiled a little inside, not caring about the logic. Figured it was best to just relax, no need to argue. My ribs slowly rebound, sticking back together, leaving me giggling with glee at the end of pain.
Pain, it was strange to think about it from a psych concept. Sure, I still avoided it if permissible, but it wasn't so clearly bad. With that pain, I got the motivation to fight more, to relieve myself of it. Was [Ares] turning me into something different, or merely accentuating me?
I never talked much about school, was a few years since I graduated. Spent all of high school wishing someone would just clock me, ridiculous as it sounded. The way I saw it then, if I didn't prove I could fight, then I wasn't dependable. If I wasn't dependable, then I was worthless.
Never got into a fight, always followed the rules, bugged me sometimes. Dad would always tell me how great it was that I never had to resort to such, acting like fighting was the last thing a person should pursue. Battle was the ultimate test of character, George Patton was right.
Without that ultimate test, what character did I actually have? What could I show for when people asked me what I stood for? Nothing, there would be no claims, no evidence to back it.
As my HP restored, I climbed out of the pool. Thankfully my gear was simply relocated, my items tab cluttered with the unequipped. As unsure as I was, ripping Recon's arm off was still the damn best decision I've made today! Found my warp out of this healing house, left accordingly.
[From Lisbeth: Hey baby, just letting you know I'm gonna stay back for another day. Asuna really needs us, I promise I'll come back soon.]
Well, guess this meant no reinforcements.
[To Lisbeth: Understood, keep trying hun! Getting acquainted as expected, miss you.]
Was good to see her trying to help her friend. Looking back, I started to wonder. How the hell did that water heal me? Had to be some generalized mechanic that heals anyone inside it. Would figure, since this was an arena setting. Rushed back to the vast halls, I sighed before marching on.
During this walk east, however, I encountered a fairly ornate figure. Dressed like a Roman Centurion, a bright red cape flew off his back, a man strode with pride. His helmet was crested, his armor gilded and colored. Had to be Ithe, Kymer instructed me on his appearance.
"Excuse me." I called to him.
The man turned, but looked irritated, impatient.
"Yea? What do you want, white boy?"
Oh great, a race commercial...and no skip button.
"You're aware I'm half Hispanic, right?" I paused.
"Really, cause you look pretty light to me."
"...Latinos come in more than one shade, dude." I groaned, "Anyway, are you Ithe?"
"What if I am?" he challenged.
"Fuck sake." I cursed him, "I didn't steal your damn tampons, that's your sister's job."
Man did he look pissed, the way his shoulders rose.
"Yea I'm Ithe, scrub." he snapped, "You better learn some damn respect too, I'm in charge of this place."
All I could do was sigh, it's been less than thirty seconds and I already wanted to drag him by his feet.
"Get out of here, American." he growled, "No one asked for you to come here, just sticking your nose in other people's business."
"What?" I blinked, "I came see if you wanted to help us."
"And work under a retarded white boy?" Ithe snarled.
Ugh. Was pretty clear this guy was a racist sack of...fill in the blank.
"Where're you from?" I crossed arms, "I might be related."
"Korean." he spat, "Your kind killed my father during the war, so I hate you."
"Would rather meet him." I raised my chin, "He stood for something."
I turned away, was fed up with the guy already. Ithe cursed at me as I walked, calling me a coward. Had to find Kymer and report back on recruitment status. One confirmed interest, other's a dud. That's when I felt a tap on my shoulder.
Looking back, I saw the purple and orange apparel. God, couldn't remember his name. His purple eyes glowed beneath that orange mage hat.
"Hi...you okay?" he started.
"Hey, what's your name again?" I asked sheepishly.
"Wick." he said.
"Sorry, pretty bad with names." I bowed my head, "Thank you for asking."
"Kinda pissed, Ithe's kind of a prick." I groaned, "...Lox bashing my brains out doesn't help."
Wick smiled a little, nodding slightly. Sure was a quiet one, but I liked him way more than Recon or Ithe...or Lox.
"I saw you fight Recon." he said softly, "Is...that how you usually handle things?"
"No, but it should." I chuckled, "Punk wanted to give a helping hand...he just wouldn't take it back!"
I slapped my knee, laughing at the thought. Wick just looked at me, more curious than anything.
"So how'd you do?" I refocused.
"Merser got me." he groaned, "Guy shoots his arrows at me all day, can't even get close."
"I hate arrows too." I nodded, "He's probably running back too, isn't he?"
"Only if Lox isn't around."
"Huh?" I blinked.
"Yea, Lox and Merser team on everyone else."
"Oh great." I splayed hands, "Cheats, racist pricks, what else does this place have?"
"Liars." Wick sighed, "Makes me wish Recon would go away."
I stopped, letting him speak.
"Sorry, it's rude for me to talk behind one's back." he shook his head.
"You're just expressing yourself, nothing wrong there." I tilted, "Don't be sorry to me, be honest."
Wick kept looking around, probably for the guy he was badmouthing.
"Look, I gotta get back to Leafa." he stated, "Gotta train, get better."
"Actually, could I come with you?" I offered, "I wanna ask her something."
He looked a bit demoralized by that. While his smile was present, something felt amiss.
"Hey now, it's just for training." I softened, "She seemed well trained, figured I could learn something."
Wick smiled, nodding in expectation.
"Sure." he kept calm, turning to lead the way.
Following Wick, we arrived first at the local pub. Oran sat in one of the center tables, a pair of women surrounding him. He and I waved to each other, sadly I had no time to speak to him. Took the doorway right of the bar.
"I don't like him..." Wick sighed, "Him and Ithe both want Leafa."
"Can you blame them?" I questioned.
He again went quiet. Wish he'd man up and just say how he feels, would've made talking much simpler.
"Do you think I'm after her?" I asked.
"No, you're okay."
Somehow I didn't believe him. Wandering the halls, he eventually led me to what looked like a training room. Wood blocks, straw men, and a little padded platform rested in different corners. On the platform, Leafa was directing Recon against...a straw man.
"Remember, caution." Leafa instructed, "You have to keep some control over the situation!"
The straw figure was armed with a wooden weapon, resembling an [Ultra Greatsword] . Recon fought the false fighter with great frustration, kinda disturbing me considering the weapon he was up against.
"Sensei, um I brought a guest." Wick announced.
Leafa glanced, her expression mixed when she caught sight of me.
"Thank you, Wick." she said softly, stepping off the platform to greet me.
I bowed my head slightly, matter of etiquette. She waved me outside the room, leading me to the hall before stopping again.
"What made you think that was okay?" she started.
"What?"
"That act you pulled, that barbaric, bloodthirsty..."
Leafa stopped herself, why was she blushing a bit from that?!
"It wasn't, it was amazing." I admitted.
She seemed so flustered by that, crossing her arms as she stared angrily.
"I'm going back inside." I stated.
"Hey, I didn't say you could." she alerted.
"Too bad, I will not be alone with another woman." I snapped.
"You wanted to speak to me, Garr." she retorted, "What did you want?"
Walking back in the training room, both of her students looked to me. Held the door open for Leafa though, who returned with a look of indignation.
"I'm here to be a student." I stated to her.
"For what?" her voice softened.
"To fight better, I need to learn."
She seemed hesitant, biting her lip a little.
"I'll address you as Sensei, if you wish." I coaxed.
"I'll...have to think about it." Leafa said, "I'm sorry."
"Let me know soon." I turned away, "Hey Wick, sorry for giving you a hard time."
"It's okay." he peeped, "Have a good day."
"You too." I waved.
Man this place was strange, was almost like it's own kingdom within Aincrad. Why was anyone even here, they're clearly tough enough for front line duty. Also, WHY were there so many attractive women in this virtual place?
Found Kymer waiting for me the second I left the bar. Tugging me to a sparsely populated spot, the Russian looked back to me.
"Report."
"Oran's willing, but he wants proof of competence." I whispered, "Wants me to kill off a boss on their chart."
"And Ithe?" Kymer tilted.
"Negative, he's a liability."
"How so?"
"Pride, the guy's a racist asshole."
"So what?" Kymer crossed arms, "Are you telling me you're going to toss aside viable options because he twisted your panties?"
"He wasn't interested, Kilo." I kept low key, "Shot down my offer."
"Dammit...okay so we'll have to work with the one then. Do you have any plans for that?"
"Ya." I nodded, "He wants a boss defeated, that [Baby Wyvern] will be my target."
"Unfortunately, you're the only other guy besides Lis that I could count on for a direct engagement. Haru and Graye are reliable, but not well equipped for this task."
"Despite this, I'm gonna recommend a one man run."
"Wait, are you serious?" Kymer growled.
"Yes, but I've got my reasons."
"We have no intel on that thing." Kymer dismissed, "I'm not risking a major assault unit for this."
"That's the thing, I'm not going there to fight it." I showed him the [Ancient Wyvern Scale], "I'm taking it home."
The Russian inspected the item, glancing back up at me.
"A recall command...alright then." he nodded, "What if it fails?"
"True, it is me after all who's doing it." I sighed, "Lis sadly sent me a message, not gonna be back in two days...think I'll need a new tool."
"I didn't want you there, because I wanted to keep focus on impressing our recruit."
"Keep practical, kid." he groaned, "I'm backing you up."
"I'm pretty safe, Kilo." I stayed firm, "The system recovers fallen players, I won't die."
"Fine, do whatever." he dismissed, "My point still stands...whether that thick head of yours accepts it or not."
"What's the status on the others?" I switched topics.
"Secured, Graye's keeping an eye on our little liability."
"You mean Haru?"
"Nah, I mean your left ear. Course I mean her, comrade. She's shown the most resistance to our operations...I may have to question her."
"You mean interrogate, right?" I crossed arms.
"That's for me to decide, not you."
"No, it is." I pointed a finger, "She's an ally."
"She's a drug addict, we need to lock it down with who we keep among us."
"Her loyalties aren't to you, they're to Graye."
"And his loyalty is to me, I don't see the issue." I shrugged.
"Wait till the cream puff dies, we'll lose two operatives." he pointed back, "It'll be just the three of us again...four if you succeed."
"That's where my next plan comes in." I stated, "Apparently if I defeat an Arena Champion in single combat matches, I will earn an item type of my choosing...and ranking."
"So what?" Kymer splayed a hand, "We have a blacksmith."
"Her skills required resources. If I can help you guys acquire new stuff with just a little sweat, then it saves her that."
Another match in the arena started, looked to be a PvE battle. Standing alone in a generated grassland, a Bo-Staff wielding Oran lowered to an attack stance. I turned to look carefully. Packs of wolves emerged from the opposing gate, rushing him like a red sea.
"They call him Legion Slayer." Kymer whispered, "Not an exaggeration either."
The second the canines converged, Oran flew into a dance, turning and swerving with that staff. The staff in his hands moved like a blur, twisting from spins, landing attacks with a solid crack of wood.
One jumped behind him, only to take a a spearing to the gut. One strafed right, Oran swatting its legs, tripping the flanking predator. One rushed forward, the monk slapping the nose from one end, and cracking its ribs with a rebounding left.
Just as one finally reached for his left, he drew his left hand. Half curling, he flung a lightning bolt from mere fingertips! The beast howled, disintegrating from the blue spark!
"He worships an Old One." I grunted.
"If you count the Great Old Thing of Beer, then I'd agree." Kymer chuckled, "Believe me, Garr...he's merely liking the magic."
"I don't want that on my team." I looked to him.
"And let a possibly valid resource go to waste?"
Dammit, he had a point. Watching the entire pack crumble before this just about armor-less fighter, I couldn't deny his skill. Recruiting Oran was my next goal. If I wanted that, then the Wyvern had to go, peacefully or otherwise.
Souls of Fire
Warping to Floor three, Lis looked to Silica for directions.
"Thanks for upgrading our stuff, Lis." Silica smiled.
"If only I could keep doing that." the blacksmith fretted, "There's an issue with my business, I'm kinda worried."
"Top it off with Asuna and I feel really...tense."
"Mm." Silica nodded, "Thank goodness Yuuki showed up though, right?"
"Yea...still wish Asuna would just relax."
"So were you okay with her answer? To Mister Godfree?"
"I just hope she made it for the right reason." Lis explained, "I like Godfree, but in the end it's her choice."
"Anyway, so where was that shop you mentioned?"
"Oh it's close!" Silica smiled, leading the way.
The pair traveled up the carved stairs, the chirping of wild birds filling the air. The horizon was flat with the cover of hundreds of tall trees, their blanket of leaves mimicking the texture of a meadow from afar. Silica's smile grew brighter, seeing the brightly colored avian above.
Along the second level of the tri-tree town, Silica guided the smith to a little shop to the east. The place was noisy, the cries of wildlife filling the sunlit spaces. Lightly colored, several little pens stood, holding a variety of beasts.
Lisbeth's dark pink eyes glanced back and forth, the mood lifting as all sorts of youthful creatures pawed and climbed about in their enclosures.
"Hey there!" the clerk leaned on his counter, "You two ready to make friends?"
The two glanced, a fairly calm-faced Yuri smiling back. His brown hair and light blue eyes bright with new life.
"Actually Mr. Yuri, I was wondering if you found anything exotic lately?" Silica blinked, her voice high with excitement.
"You'd be right on time." Yuri nodded, "Found something really rare, very hard to come across."
He motioned the two to a glass container, a few tree branches stuck inside. Silica kept looking, hoping to spot the newest catch among the leaves. Lisbeth, however, was staring at him. While she recognized him, she dared not speak of it.
Yuri ushered Silica back from the cage, pulling out a small capped cup. Opening it inside the cage, a fly scattered about.
"Give it a second..." he directed.
Moments later, a long tongue flew out, snatching the bug from mid-air! One gulp later, some spots appeared out of thin air. Brightly colored, they almost floated free of any contact.
"That, is called an [Opal Chameleon]." Yuri smiled, "Here."
He opened the cage, a half foot long reptile reaching out for him with forked hands. It slowly climbed his arm, turning radiant colors as it looked up to him. From emerald greens to deep blues, its curled tail, crown like crest, and independently mobile eyes showed.
With one eye, it glanced over to Lisbeth, turning a bright shining red. Rising to full quadruped height, it licked its lips...and started doing pushups.
"Hey, are you challenging me?" she smirked, "Hate to tell ya, squirt...but that's no pushup!"
The chameleon turned a bright light blue, stopping its physical display to stare at her.
"Yea, you heard me." the blacksmith giggled.
The lizard turned its head, climbing on top of Yuri's head. Just as it rested, it looked back to her and did another pushup. Lisbeth sighed, smiling at the creature as it rested.
It's just like him...he'd love that little guy.
"Sassy thing." Lis muttered.
"To be honest, I only found this from sheer dumb luck." Yuri rubbed its back, "Apparently it hangs around jungles, its neuro-toxin capable of paralyzing pretty big bugs."
"Cool!" Silica commended, "How big do these get?"
"Heck if I know, I found this about...three days back? All I know is it likes eating bugs...and squeaking."
Lisbeth's eyes focused on the brightly toned lizard, remembering Garr's comments the night before.
"Think I'll be selling this for...two million." Yuri pondered.
"Two million!? That's crazy!" Silica stated loudly.
"Yea well this is also an A-Class pet." Yuri shrugged, "This price isn't exactly wild, specially when they offer minor buffs."
"What's this one give?" Lis peeped.
"Oh a slight buff to [Stealth] skill."
Lisbeth said nothing, thinking about it.
Stealth...that's like the least useful skill Aiden could get buffed. The sound of his armor alone would wake the drunk.
"Sadly we don't have the money for that." Silica fidgeted.
The second it heard this, the chameleon bobbed it's head, sticking its tongue at Lisbeth, mocking her. The blacksmith glared, her dark pink eyes ready to melt that insolent pet.
It's like it knew how much it pissed me off.
"That's fine, just love showing this little guy." Yuri nodded, "He's quiet, eats bugs, and expresses himself by color."
"Oh well...can't wait to start investing in the floors above twenty five, apparently that's where the really rare stuff starts showing up."
"Really?" Silica looked up.
"Yea, least that's what the last three info brokers told me." Yuri shrugged, "Though they were pretty vague, probably cause they didn't wanna base too much off the beta."
"Makes sense." Lisbeth shrugged, "Tougher levels yield better gear."
"Mm, when should your next shipment arrive?" Silica squeaked.
"Not sure, probably gonna head out with my assistants in a few days." he looked out the window, "I'll letcha know, alright Silica?"
"Okay!" she cheered, leaving the shop.
Lisbeth looked awkwardly to shopkeeper. She knew who he was, but wouldn't dare say.
"So...you set on that price?" she tested.
"Yea, unless they're not actually rare that isn't changing."
Darn. Mantium's already messaged me on issues with Tibrus, I gotta keep funds tight.
"Alright, thanks anyway." Lis smiled, leaving to reunite with the prospective Beast Tamer.
Leaving the shop, the two made their way back to the Teleport Gate.
"Thanks for the break, Silica." Lisbeth noted, "To be honest, I feel very emotionally drained."
"It's fine!" she cheered blissfully, "You really liked that chameleon it seems."
"You kidding, that thing is the most insufferable thing I've ever met!" the smith declared, "...and I'm...thinking about it."
"Why though?" Silica tilted.
"Special reasons. Now come on, Asuna needs us."
"But...if you're hurt."
"It's fine." Lisbeth deflected, "Let's just go."
A/N: Big plans, so little time! Sassy chameleons, snarky giants, stagnant plotline that absolutely refuses to choke and di- wait...forget I said that.
Hey guys, huge thanks for reading my story! Took a little longer than usual to produce this chapter, so let me know whatcha think. Remember, give 'SAO: The Others' a read, I like that fic and feel you would too! :D
Review me, bad or good. I wanna be best girl...Agil is not best girl.