Sword Art Online Revolution: STRIVE

by Blazrman

Set after the Underworld Incident. A few years have passed and things have changed until the rise of one popular VRMMORPG known as Erthesia Online, the game filled with endless opportunity for players. Takeshi Inugami, the member of the Bladerights along with his allies drags themselves into the greater conflict then they imagine. Life was never just a game. It is to strive on.

1. The Stronger, The Further You'll Be

The following story is a [FAN-FICTION]! Sword Art Online are all owned by Reki Kawahara, Dengeki Bunko, and A-1 Pictures. Please support it's official release!

Before we get started. This is going to be my first ever SAO story which I have never worked on. I know War of Underworld is still going on but there are light novels that are far up ahead. So, I came up with an idea as my take on the SAO stuff myself. I had to focus on the world building itself as well. And as for the setting? Well, I've come up with an idea in the first place. It's going to be set after War of Underworld and the story has plunged itself into a different direction and Unital Ring is retconned (in my story as so to say). So, I want to try to focus on a new protagonist and bring back some familiar characters like Leafa for example. But the first Arc will only focus on the protagonist's journey and how he'll get himself involved in stranger events. Plus, I think it will have some light-hearted comedy but most will be dark, serious, and gritty at some point. With that out of the way… Let's begin the story!

Sword Art Online Revolution: STRIVE

[Sardegna Arc -HYPERTOUGHNESS-] Chapter 1: The Stronger, the Further You'll Be -Fight Song-

7/19/2028 Ashlog Village, Glenfield Plains, Outskirts of Lostbelt Kingdom, Erthesia Daytime - Clear Sky [INGAME]

It was a quiet village filled with silence and peace. But there were no people outside as there are things going on. The ground started to rumble as there were mechanical vehicles heavily resembling World War II vehicles such as Tanks and APCs. But the soldiers were marching forward as they began their occupation of the village as the people in the Ashlog Village remained in their homes while remaining quiet. The child was scared as her mother comforted her. But meanwhile beyond the hills where the opposing army heavily resembles back to the high fantasy medieval days. But there was a large banner where one of the knights was carrying as the banner displayed a fleur-de-lis with a 4-checkered shield with a gold/white color scheme with two swords crossing over the shield like an X-shape. But, there was a knight commander with a mustache as he donned his silver knight armor while riding on his white horse as he used his spyglass to overlook the village being overrun by the enemy. The commander looked back at his soldiers ranging from humans, elves, fairies, orcs, beastkin, and centaurs as they were waiting for the moment. But behind the army is a bunch of people donning strange, stylish armor and weapons which appear to be players who have joined this battle.

"The time has come! The Sardegna Empire has dared to set their foot into our Lostbeltian soil. All of your brave soldiers and knights have trained for this moment. Today's the day that we take back our territory and push them back! Their tyrnarry of conquest must be stopped along with their influence!" The knight commander said his speech where his soldiers cheered and raised their weapons up in the air.

However, the players consisting of Warriors, Samurais, Knights, Gunners, Archers, and Mages were seen preparing themselves with buffs. Yet, they were confident. But meanwhile where there was a group next to the group of soldiers and players. There was a young man with black hair, brown eyes, donning a grey cloak and some light armor. However, he was seen holding what appears to be a two-handed sword with a wide blade on his right hand. But he appears to be riding his moust which appears to be a centaur female with long gold hair, blue eyes. She wears a dress with a ruffled collar, puffy sleeves, and a pleated skirt as she wore her blue light armor while her centaur body is a black horse. Hey, she remained confident as she wielded her white lance while the young man was on her regal saddle. Then, there was a brown haired man who wore his traditional samurai armor with no helmet as he had his katana sheathed.

"Hey, Takeshi. Today's the day. We're fighting in a war to take back our territory." The samurai continued as he observed the Empire soldiers and tanks. "Sucks that we're going to be a little outnumbered but I don't see any players who sided with the Empire so this might be our lucky chance."

"Yeah… I know, Makoto. Hey, Tisalia… Are you feeling nervous?" Takeshi asked his compassion as she noticed as she was a bit worried.

"A bit… But still, we're fighting against an army with advanced technology… We're not sure if we can push them back." Tisalia said as Takeshi pet her head as her animal horse ears on the top of her head twitch.

*Drifters OST - Chakra Destiny (Short Version)

"You're overthinking it." Takeshi continued as he looked at his blade. "We can still do this. Look around you, we have players on our side, fighting for the better cause."

"Like he said. My guildmate is always too confident or too cautious. After all, he's a good ally you can rely on. After all, you chose to serve under him." Makoto shrugged with a smirk as Takeshi sighed.

"C'mon, Makoto… You think I'm always like that?" Takeshi deadpanned at him until they all heard the sound of the horn… which signaled the start of the war.

"EVERYONE! CHARGE!" The knight commander exclaimed as he rode on his horse down the hill as the soldiers yelled and followed in pursuit. The players of the Lostbelt Kingdom prepared themselves as they rushed towards down the hill, making their way to the village.

"It has begun… Tisalia, charge!" Takeshi commanded his mount as she prepared to gallop.

"As you command!" Tisalia then gallops down the hill with her lance out and ready as Takeshi held on as she was reaching fast speeds.

"Hey! Wait for me!" Makoto exclaimed as he ran to follow them.

Then, just as the soldiers and players of Lostbelt Kingdom reached into the village, they began killing the soldiers of the Sardegna Empire. But the empire riflemen returned fire with a formation as they started to fire their magic-based firearms at the Kingdom's soldiers as they started dying by the magic bolt projectiles. But some of the knights created a shield wall formation to absorb the magic bolts to protect the knights. But the players rushing in have killed off the riflemen squads as the gunners on the rooftops shooting down Empire soldiers one by one. But the players were met with tank shells fired from Empire's tanks that resembled a german Panzer. However, Takeshi made it into the village with his mount as Tisalia stabbed an soldier with her lance as he swung his sword to his right side at the soldiers who were blindly rushing towards their enemy. Thus, their heads were decapitated as there was blood splattered on the ground. Makoto was currently dealing with the Empire soldiers who were too close in his range as they had bayonets on their rifles until the samurai quickly drew his sword in a flash as the group of soldiers around him stood still as they had their arms and heads cut off due to the results of his Samurai skill he perfected with his Exotic rarity Katana known as Dayspring.

"Tough luck, Empire dogs. You just saw my best skill… [11th Cut Technique: Morning Gleam]... You better not die, Takeshi. These guys won't stop." Makoto said to himself as he looked at his guildmate riding his centaur as they were attacking their enemy to clear the way for the players. But for the two… As they continue to clear the path for the players who are following them. The Archers and Gunners readied themselves to fire an incoming shot at the soldiers in front of them. Snipers outside of the village as they were proning on the hill to take aim at the tanks as they group fires with pure bullets unlike the Empire's magic bullets.

"There's a tank incoming! And it's aiming towards me!" Tisalia exclaimed to her partner as he leaned his body to his left to see what's incoming to find where there was one tank ready to aim at the centaur.

"We have snipers! Keep going!" Takeshi replied back as the bullets managed to destroy the tank's weak spot as the centaur passed through. "There's a commander far ahead. We gotta kill him so we can force his troops to retreat! This is our only chance!"

Meanwhile, the Empire commander who was seen using his monocular to look at the view of the battle along where he saw smoke and fire everywhere as the Kingdom of Lostbelt were still clashing with each other. Players effortlessly helping Lostbelt knights to fend off the oppressive forces of the Empire but all the tanks they used were destroyed by the snipers. Then, he puts his monocular away as he hears the noise where Takeshi and Tisalia arrived to where the commander is at. He got off of her as he looked at her.

"Tisalia. Go help Makoto. I'll deal with him." Takeshi said to her as she was concerned.

"But, Takeshi! Let me fight with you-" Tisalia's sentence was cut off as he spoke.

"No, I said I'll handle him. It'll be a cakewalk for me. Please, go help Makoto deal with the soldiers of the Sardegna Empire." Takeshi replied back at her as the centaur had no choice but to listen to her partner.

"Alright, I trust you but don't die!" Tisalia said as she turned back and galloped back to the village under attack. Takeshi turned around to look at the commander who was waiting for him.

"So, you're the man leading the forces here, yes?" Takeshi said to him as he drew out his sword and summoned his elegant gilded shield made of black steel from his left arm.

"You dare interrupt our occupation, Lostbelt scum?" The commander continued as he held out a rapier and a futuristic-looking pistol powered by magic. "Listen here. This world needs a change. The current state of the world is riddled with monsters that us humans have co-exist?! Nonsense!"

[BANG!]

Takeshi quickly blocked the commander's attack with his uniquely designed tower shield but not too tall but just right as the magic bolt projectile bounced right off into the ground. He lowered his shield down as the enemy NPC commander was reluctant to kill the player and continue his army for the occupation of the village. Though, the man himself wouldn't want that to happen.

"Damn. You NPCs are as real as it can get. But I'll make sure you shut your mouth. Now have at you!" Takeshi rushed into battle as he swung his sword first as the commander blocked his attacks easily and returned fire with his pistol as he dodged the projectile and blocked one with his shield. However, he decided to run to his right to circle around him as the npc fires his gun once again as he dodges and goes after him.

"Not so fast!" The commander exclaimed as he thrust his rapier aimed for his head as he slid under him as he swung his sword to slash his back as he started to lose balance. "Damn you!"

"What do you know? I'm a natural." Takeshi said as he taunted him with his hands, forcing him to come.

"Don't think you're cocky, boy!" The commander then ran towards him as he did the same. But Takeshi then sheaths his sword onto his side like how Samurais would do it. Then… the two came into contact as they swung their swords as they passed right through each other… And just as six seconds had passed, the commander started to gush out blood from his chest as he kneeled down in pain. Takeshi manages to get things done quickly as he decides to approach him. "N-No… This… can't be… Have I failed you, Emperor?"

"Look, I don't know what you're talking about. The whole emperor and stuff. So, I thought killing you would force your men to retreat back to your kingdom. How does that sound?" Takeshi then crouched to look at his anguished face as he coughs out blood.

"Killing me… won't stop… until our invasion into your kingdom… is finished…" The commander said his last words as he began to sigh.

"Really? That's all you have to say? Okay then, your funeral. Enjoy your trip to hell, you Sardegna scum!" Takeshi then proceeds to swing his sword to the right as he decapitates the commander's head as it starts rolling down the grassland hills. "Aaaaand there it goes…"

Imperial Soldier 1: "Crap! He killed our commander!"

Imperial Soldier 2: "R-RETREAT! WE CAN'T WIN!"

"VICTORY IS OURS!" The knight commander exclaimed in victory as the Lostbelt Knights and players raised their weapons into the air as the sign of victory. And with that… Ashlog Village is safe from the Empire's harm. The villagers living here come out of their homes to see the sign of relief.

Meanwhile, Takeshi was seen looking at the view of the village to see the players and NPC cheering. He looked at his interface to see the Raid Defense results since it was done.

-[Defense Raid Completed - Ashlog Village]-

[EXP Rewarded: 5,416]

[Lein Rewarded: 12,500]

[Item Rewarded: LV50 Empire Rapier (Uncommon)]

[LEVEL UP - Level 51]

[New skill upgrade available]

"Huh… Guess that's a start for me. All that EXP grind was worth after all." Takeshi said to himself as both Tisalia and Makoto arrived.

"Congrats on your level, Takeshi. You did some numbers on that guy. Hell, you cut his head off!" Makoto was surprised but impressed as Takeshi gets rid of the blood on his sword and sheathes it.

"It was nothing. What about you two?" Takeshi asked the two as Tisalia sheathes her lance from her side.

"The Lostbelt soldiers are setting up defense after the battle so the villagers shouldn't worry about it. As for our leader here…" Tisalia replied with a smile as she looked at the samurai scratching the back of his head.

"Yeah, yeah. Sad that it's just us. Many of our members were too busy nor willing to join but who knows. Sucks that Leafa-san didn't have time because she had things to do." Makoto responded as he passed through him and rode on Tisalia.

"Don't worry about it. We did what we've done, right? Let's head back to the guild. I hope you got some drinks to celebrate." Takeshi continued as he controlled her to head back. "Race you there, Makoto!"

"H-Hey! Wait up!" Makoto notices as he summons his own horse mount in samurai armor as he follows both Takeshi and Tisalia on their way back to the Kingdom itself.

Meanwhile, there was a young girl who had blind hair with an ahoge and a long braid tied with a black slim ribbon at the end as she had blue-tealish eyes. She dons an outfit that came from the high heavens and has large angel wings on her back. However, she had long chains with sharp crystal blue tips on both ends, white knee socks and high heel sandals which reveals her feet. She also happens to have a head peace on her front left of her hair which has the angel wing symbol. She was floating in the sky as she had her eyes on Takeshi. However… This journey has just begun for him.

---

OPENING - NEXT LEVEL by YU-KI (TV Size)

*Theme plays*

The theme starts where it shows the colored silhouettes in order of Takeshi Inugami, Suguha Kirigaya, Tisalia Scythia, and Makoto Amamiya. Then, the scene transitions in a black space where Takeshi was seen in his casual outfit in the real world as he was looking the other way until he turns around as the glass cracks and shatters, revealing his in-game outfit with his sword and shield. Then the scene transitions to where he was crossing through the barren wasteland filled with weapons and corpses until he climbs up the hill as he overlooks the Kingdom of Lostbelt as he looks at the beautiful scenery of green grass, blue skies, villages, and the kingdom itself.

Kimi ga negau koto nara subete ga genjitsu ni naru n' darou

Erabareshi mono naraba

The scene starts in Shibuya Crossing where there were no pedestrians around but it was just Takeshi, Suguha, and Makoto standing apart from each other as the view spins around the area as it zooms on their faces in their serious expression as the video glitch effects the three as it switched into their in-game avatars. Then the next scene shows Shino Asada who was seen alone in her room as she held her AmuSphere to look at the reflection of her face until she faces the nightmare when she encounters the face of Subtilizer from the reflection.

Bousou hajimete 'ru

Sekai wo moto ni modosu ni wa mou

Jikan ga nai

Then the next scene where it shows the members of the Order of the Bladerights such as Maisha, Setus, and Mistolina and other members of Bladerights. Then the next scene shows Lisbeth who was seen repairing someone's weapon while her shop was open for customers. Then it shows the silhouette of a black-haired young man, a long orange-brownish chestnut haired young woman, and a blonde haired woman standing there with the light shining behind them brightly, concealing their appearance and faces as their hairs were blown by the wind.

MOVING FAST

Kokoro no tokei ni hashirase ashita no sono saki e

Then, the next scene shows Takeshi sitting alone in the Dicey Cafe as he drank water from a shot glass while Andrew was seen brewing coffee. However, behind Takeshi was a mysterious hooded man who appeared behind him as he disappeared through the digital static. Then the next scene switches to in-game where Takeshi was seen having his knees kneeled on the ground during the heavy rain as there was a war-torn battlefield around him filled with corpse and blood on his face all over him as he drops his sword and shield until the mysterious angelic figure appears before him as he slowly grabs her hand as the screen brightens to transition.

Kimi no tonari tatakau tabi umarekawaru

Me ni mieru SPEED koete 'ku MOTION

Then the scene transitions to where Takashi starts fighting against the mysterious hooded man with his sword and shield as the man blocked his attacks as he goes for the offensive as the red glowing eyes appeared under his hood as they clashed once again as they both stepped back but in slow motion where Takeshi starts running towards him with his sword ready.

Ittai jibun igai dare no tsuyosa shinjirareru?

Kousoku no VISION minogasu na

Tsuite koreru nara...

Then the next scene shows Leafa unleashing her wind magic from her sword, next shows Makoto unleashing his katana skill as he mows down the group of monsters in his path. And then to the real world where the hooded man stands on top of the skyscraper to see the city of Tokyo at night until he falls off the edge to dissapear. Then the final scene shows Takeshi doing the final blow onto his enemy as it caused a group explosion as the dust settled down as he finally raised his sword up high in victory as the scene ends with a title screen. The screen blacks out to show the title of the chapter's name for a brief moment and ends with Takeshi's Amusphere on his desk as it shows the in-game reflection of his crew as the screen shuts off.

---

7/20/2028 Inugami Residence, Tokyo, Japan Morning - Clear Sky [REAL WORLD]

*the pillows - MY FOOT (Fool on Cool Ver.)

It was the next day in the normal city of Okinawa as the sun had already risen but it was morning. But inside the home of the Inugami Residence where he lives with his Mother and his younger sister. He was playing music on his phone placed on the speakers. Apparently, he's a big fan of music made by the band known as "the pillows". Though, he was putting the volume to somewhat high where he could listen to it while he was getting dressed as usual. He had black hair and brown eyes. But his hair is ruffled up after he had a hard time sleeping. But, he decided to put on his black shorts and a graphic t-shirt that shows a picture of what appears to be an anime called "FLCL". He opened his door and left his room to head into the bathroom real quick where he quickly watched his face and brushed his teeth. After that, just as he was about to return back into his room. He looked to his left to see his sister. She was young but had black long hair tied into a braid and brown eyes, she wore her normal dress. Yet, she is 14 years old. However, she woke up unexpectedly.

"Huh? Hanako-chan? You're awake." Takeshi said to her as she yawned.

"Barely… Can you lower the volume? I can still hear it across my room, Onii-chan. Plus, you might cause some noise complaints…" Takeshi's sister named Hanako said to him as he sighed.

"C'mon, It's just alternative rock music. It's completely harmless to listen to it, Hanako-chan." Takeshi continued. "By the way, is Okaa-san at work already? I haven't seen her before when I go to bed or wake up."

"Yeah, she went to work again. And please lower your speakers, please…" Hanako glared at her older brother as she gots back to her room.

"Of course…" Takeshi sighs as he decides to go back into his room where his room is pretty much clean, complete with a bed, desk, closet, and a TV. He looked to his left to see the posters on his wall where he had posters of the pillows band, Phantasy Star Online 2, and lastly… the Erthesia Online poster. He saw his AmuSphere on his desk as he intended to go back in. But, he decided to turn off the speakers as it was pure silence. "Now then… Yesterday was our successful defense raid at Ashlog Village. I remember today that I have some free time. Makoto-san won't get on the game soon so I guess I'm the only one to login."

Erthesia Online or EO for short… people have called it RATH's best VRMMORPG game that has dominated the VR market of all time. Apparently, it had a worldwide release when it first came out, allowing people from all over the world to try it. And much to their surprise, they loved it. EO was filled with a living, breathing ingame world with true realism, deep character creation, and a hybrid between a sandbox and theme park MMO. Thus, it was filled with opportunity for everyone who desires to become anything. From heroes, villains, nobles, anything. It was filled with unlimited possibilities and anyone can do whatever they want. Takeshi then grabs his AmuSphere headset and rests on his bed when he puts it on. He begins to take deep breaths for a few seconds. And then… he was ready. Ready to enter into the world of Erthesia Online.

"Link start." Takeshi said as his mind dives right into the game…

---

7/20/2028 Order of the Bladerights Guild, Isunia, Lostbelt Kingdom Daytime - Clear Sky [INGAME]

*Persona 5 OSt - What's Going On?

Then inside the game of Erthesia Online where Takeshi logs into the game where he spawned in the main hall of his guild. It looked pretty normal and medieval-like. Guild members in their Bladerights uniform were seen casually chatting while others were busy. Yet, the guild is brimming with life where players and NPCs would go about their day. Sure the room looks large for such a tavern but the building of the Bladerights is a cathedral that was once abandoned but was converted into a home for the guild. He takes a deep breath.

"Good to be back." Takeshi said as he noticed someone behind her. It was none other then Makoto's follower herself… Maisha Laforge. She had brown hair, blue eyes, and glasses as she wore her Bladerights uniform. Though, she was happy to see him again.

"Welcome back, Sir Takeshi." Maisha said with a bow. "I assume Leader Makoto isn't here yet?"

"He'll come on soon. I just came in to see what's going on. What about you, Maisha? Been taking over Makoto's work from time to time?" Takeshi asked her.

"I have. Things are pretty normal if you ask me. That reminds me… Umm…" Maisha starts to twiddle her fingers for a quick moment and looks at him. "Apologies that I couldn't be with you and Headmarshal Makoto yesterday about the defense of Ashlog Village. But I'm glad the people are safe."

"It's alright. We did what we could. Sucks that lost some of the people who got killed by the Empire. But we showed them who's the boss, though." Takeshi continued. "Oh yeah. Maisha, have you seen Leafa?"

"I'm here, Takeshi. You called?" The voice of Leafa arrives to meet the knight as she had long ponytail blonde hair and the Bladerights uniform but she had a green scarf and fairy wings on her back along with her pointed ears.

"There you are, Leafa. You weren't at yesterday's Defense Raid. What happened?" Takeshi asked her as she had a hard time explaining.

"Well uhh… I had to say goodbye to my brother yesterday because he is attending the institute today ever since my dad keeps telling him to not lose that path or something. Now, my brother is leaving this girl to me since she has to recharge. But I'm glad she's settling herself in." Leafa explained about it as he seemed to acknowledge her reason.

"Hmm… That's understandable. But try to message me or Makoto next time, alright?" Takeshi replied to her as she nodded. But, Maisha steps in.

*Persona 5 OST - Suspicion

"U-Umm… Sorry if I had to cut your conversations. But we have an urgent mission." Maisha continued as she became serious about it. "There's a Empire base camp found at the outskirts of our Kingdom."

"Wait, really? Which direction?" Takeshi asked.

"Southwest. Near but far into the borders between Lostbelt and Sardegna." Maisha said until Makoto who just logged in a few minutes ago.

"Going into the borders of the enemy territory, huh? This could be interesting. Or could be a fluke. Who knows?" Makoto said as he arrived to meet up with the three.

"Ahh! Leader Makoto! You've arrived. I assume you heard about the situation?" Maisha asked him.

"My ears are all crystal, Maisha. I'd love to join for the assault but I can't. I have to stay here to keep track of my members… and do paperwork…" Makoto said with a sigh.

"It's okay, Makoto. You can do it. I know you can." Takeshi replied with a smile and gave him the thumbs up.

"Thanks. To make this up… Takeshi, Leafa. You are to be deployed for the assault on the Empire base camp. Maisha, gather your best men and join with them." Makoto commanded the three as they all saluted.

Takeshi/Leafa/Maisha: "Understood!"

And so, the three decided to prepare themselves to move out but they needed to make sure that Maisha had to take the best guild members and her best friend Setus Law. Takeshi would have hoped if Tisalia would come but he would have to do it without her as long there was Leafa, who has to join the attack on the Empire's base camp. And just as that, Maisha managed to grab Setus and some best guild members as the group left their guild headquarters and traveled their way to capture the enemy base camp. Meanwhile, the young angel was floating in the sky as she once again observed Takeshi following his group. Though, she remained keen on him until she decided to fly up in the sky and disappear.

---

7/20/2028 Sardegna Empire Base Camp Wilco, Border between Sardegna and Lostbelt, Erthesia Daytime - Clear Sky [INGAME]

As hours passed… they've traveled their way to the enemy territory where the base camp was set by their enemy… the Sardegna Empire. Maisha was seen using her monocular to observe the view of their camp as they were standing on the plain field from afar. It is only just Takeshi, Leafa, Maisha, Setus, and four other guild members of Bladerights. In which the four of the unnamed guild members are players.

"I'm so tired… Does anyone have food…?" Leafa groaned as she was starving until Takeshi opened up his interface and selected a food item as he gave it to her.

"Would some Sweet Bread do? It's cinnamon." Takeshi asked her as she quickly took it from him.

"Thanks… You're a lifesaver…" Leafa replied as she eats up the bread as Maisha frowned to look at the two.

"Takeshi, Leafa… Can you at least pay attention?" Maisha said to them as Leafa finished up her food.

"Sorry, sorry. I was hungry. That's all." Leafa apologized with an awkward chuckle.

"Apologies. I just had to help her." Takeshi replied as she looked back at the monocular. However, Takeshi decided to look into his interface to check into his gear as he looked into it. And most importantly, the exotic shield he had received during his exotic quest when he was LV50 at the time.

[Username: Paracesis - Level 51 - Overall Class: Knight | Fighter/Tank]

[Right Weapon - Steel Bastard Sword +3 / Rare]

[Left Weapon - Ziedrich Shield / Exotic]

[Armor: Lostbeltian Steel Plate Armor +5 / Epic]

[Outfit: Standard Issue Bladerights Armor]

[Accessory 1: Iron Ring of Unyielding +3 / Rare]

[Accessory 2: Iron Ring of Vigor +3 / Rare]

[Belt: Warrior's Belt / Rare]

[Shield - Ziedrich - Rarity: Exotic]

[Description: An shield made through layers of armor, forged by a legendary blacksmith from the past. It is said that a wearer will become a legend someday.]

[Exclusive Skill - Shield Crater: Deal an AOE damage that will knockback and slow enemies. 20% chance to stun for 5 seconds. 20 second cooldown.]

[Exclusive Active - Obsidian Thorn: Shield bashing an enemy regardless of shield attack skills will apply bleeding 0-50% the amount of damage taken or blocking for 15 seconds.]

[Exclusive Passive - Damage Control: When in combat, taking damage or blocking will stack up to 100,000 damage taken/blocked maximum. Stacks will reset when out of combat.]

But in the game of Erthesia Online, rarity items at the highest are much as important such as Exotic which is supposed to be the highest rarity in the game. However, the game encouraged diversity for gear builds in which players can only equip two Exotic Weapons and one Exotic gear. But he obtained his first Exotic Shield known as the Ziedrich in which he got it from a raid boss when he was Level 47 at the time. But there was a catch, Exotic Items can level along with the player to the current level no matter what. Either if it's not equipped in the inventory or in the storage. However, they can't be sold in the Player Market because they're considered as one of a kind. It's possible to get the same Exotic Item but the stats are randomly mid-maxed in which the type of player stats such as STR, VIT, EVD, MAG, etc will make a significant boost for their player stats via combination as overall stats. His gear seemed fine as it was. But his username was Paracesis. But he preferred going with his name as Takeshi because it's easier. He turned off his interface as he looked at Maisha who was seen turning around to look at her group.

"Listen, everyone. There are only twelve Imperial troops taking refuge in their base camp and we will capture it without fail!" Maisha continued as she drew out her nodachi-looking sword as it was imbued with magical energy.. "Bladerights! Take up your swords! It's time that we will strike!"

*Final Fantasy VII Remake OST - Let the Battles Begin

"EVERYONE! TO BATTLE! CHARGE!" Setus roared as everyone including Maisha, Takeshi, and Leafa rushed into battle. Takeshi sighed as it couldn't be helped. However, the young angel was observing him again as she watched the battle.

"It's about time I showed my skills in action… Here I go!" Leafa said with confidence as she deployed her fairy wings as she started to take flight at high speed to beat her group to the punch by killing one soldier from Sardegna as they all noticed.

Sardegna Soldier: "Quick! Sound the alarm- AGGH!"

"Don't even think about it." Takeshi coldly replied as he pulled his sword out from his chest as he began fighting two soldiers in which it was an uneven fight but he can still manage.

Maisha was seen confronting the Sardegna's rifleman as he fired a fire-element bolt from his rifle in burst fire as she quickly blocked the projectile with her blade as it consumed the magic projectile, causing her blade to glow. Maisha then concentrated as she returned fire with a arcing wave projectile closing onto the soldier as he took heavy damage.

"Damn, Maisha. Nice technique there. You've been improving?" Takeshi said to her as she nodded with a smile on her face.

"Why yes! I've been improving my skills to this day." Maisha replied as she dodged the incoming blade and slashed the soldier easily.

"Figures! I've been honing my skills as well!" Takeshi said as he had already dealt two soldiers easily as he went for the another one until Leafa flew past him as she stole his kill. "Hey! That's my kill you Speedoholic!"

"I'll make you eat those words if you call me that!" Leafa barked back until everyone noticed that there was the Base Camp Leader arriving after they wiped out the remaining soldiers.

"Heads up, everyone! The leader of the Base Camp is here!" Maisha warned her allies as they all noticed to see a heavily armored imperial soldier wielding a two handed halberd. Yet, he looks menacing as he does his battlecry by yelling. Then, the player's interface shows the boss name as it had three health bars above the bosses' head as the name reveals it self

[BASE CAMP BOSS - LV60 Loqi the Ravager]

"You're a dead man!" Loqi exclaimed as he went for Setus as he swung his weapon as he blocked the incoming overhead attack. The pressure was so strong, Loqi continued to push down his weapon onto Setus' two handed axe as the ground began to crack below him by a little bit. "Think you could contain my rage!?"

"I'd like to see you try… RAAH!" Setus roared as he begins to push his weapon until he finds a opportunity to kick him through knockback as Setus retaliated back with a mighty swing as it manage to hit him but it wasn't enough to cut deep in the armor enough as Loqi's Health Bar slowly decreased by 5% of Setus' damage.

"Is that all you can do!?" Loqi barked as he swung his halberd to his right as he created an impact as Setus blocked his attacks once again until Maisha joined into the fight as she swung her magic-powered blade with flourish combos as the boss took enough damage to get rid of one health bar from him.

"Thanks for the help, Maisha. I would have died if you weren't there." Setus thanked her long time friend.

"I always look after my guild members such as you." Maisha replied back as Leafa rushed into the battle to constantly attack the boss while flying around.

"Damn you! Enough flying and fight like you mean it!" Loqi then sets his eye on her as he prepares his own skill that will deal heavy damage towards any player or NPC.

Leafa wasn't paying attention when she was hovering down on the ground to ready her wind magic but realized that he had already reached her personal space. Hey eyes widen when Loqi starts to fiercely swing down his halberd until in the nick of time where Takeshi arrives with his Ziedrich shield after he blocked his lethal attack. But in his interface where he noticed where his Ziedrich buff has been stacked up to it's maximum damage but his HP took damage by 10% as a result. He had to make sure that his health is okay.

"T-Thanks, Takeshi-san! Distract him for me while I cast my skill!" Leafa told him as he nodded.

"With pleasure!" Takeshi replied with confidence as he blocked Loqi's combo attacks as he dodged and blocked while holding off his stack as he barely fought back with his sword. He checked Loqi's HP where the third health bar had hit 30% of his HP. This was Leafa's opportunity as she finally cast her spell…

"Aerodyne!" Leafa casted her powerful wind magic targeted on Loqi as he staggered while taking damage. "Now!"

"I'll make you bleed… Shield Crater!" Takeshi exclaimed as he slammed the ground with a shield punch as it caused a knockback on Loqi. However, the boss also applied 50% of the bleed status effect as he fell on the ground. "Ha! How'd you like that!"

Bladerights Player: "Hey! The boss! Something's goin' bad!"

One of the players of the guild notified them as Takeshi, Leafa, Maisha, and Setus all watched to see the boss… he is down to two health bars which means something ominous is going on around Loqi. He begins to emit a red menacing aura around him as they all watch him get up with his weapon. Both Takeshi and Leafa noticed a strange buff on him while he was bleeding. It was an enemy buff icon where it shows an icon of a sword with an arrow and a second icon which shows the shield and arrow.. Meaning that Loqi is now enraged.

"Not bad… not only you damage me hard… but you also destroyed my armor… which limits me from doing so. Since you did that… I can finally go all out!" Loqi then quickly dashed towards Leafa as she was unprepared.

"Leafa! Watch out!" Maisha yelled as Setus arrived in time to defend her as he casted his own skill.

"Not so fast! Lionwall!" Setus then stabbed his weapon down to the ground as he casted a large spectral shield when Loqi made an impact. But Loqi's strength is unparalleled as he manages to break through his defenses and swung his halberd again to send him flying as Leafa was caught up in the mess when she collided with Setus and crashed into the tree. Both Setus and Leafa took critical damage but didn't die yet.

"No! Setus!" Maisha was shocked as she looked back at Loqi in anger. "You'll pay for it!"

Maisha dashed forward as she concentrated her blade with a sufficient amount of mana as she cut through him but the damage against Loqi did only about 1,000 damage, realizing that his defense has been increased as long he is enraged.

"Is that… ALL YOU HAVE!" Loqi then swung his weapon downward as she dodged to her left when Takeshi stepped into the fray to attack him with his sword but it was barely doing any damage.

"The hell? My attacks aren't working!" Takeshi complained as Loqi had a sinister smile.

"That's because I'm tougher, you brat!" Loqi then swings up his halberd as he didn't have time to react to use his shield but uses his sword to defend himself. Suddenly… the blade of the halberd broke through Takeshi's sword as it was completely broken. He was shocked by his absurd strength. Yet, he does not have any spare swords because he only carried one. And that sword was the only one he mainly used. Only to realize that it was the weapon's durability because he forgot… big rookie mistake. "Oh? Seems your sword has broken. Guess I win! Say goodbye!"

"No! Takeshi!" Maisha tried to call out to him but it was too late. In Takeshi's view, time started to slow down as he was ready to meet his demise. He starts to close his eyes out of fear as he couldn't act or do something. Then, just a split second… time starts to pause as the background around him starts to change into a completely dark void of space filled with smoke everywhere as he couldn't see anything when he opened his eyes.

"So… I guess I'm dead in-game now, huh?" Takeshi sighed after knowing that he would meet his demise. "Makoto, Maisha, Setus, and Leafa… I'm sorry that I couldn't protect you all… I got too reckless and look what happened to me! I was careless after all…"

"No, you're not…" The voice of a young girl spoke as he looked around.

"W-Who's there!? Show yourself!" Takeshi demanded to know as he looked around to his surroundings.

"Huh!? Are you that dense? Or stupid? Honestly… I never knew meeting this particular human would be a struggle… Have you tried looking up?" The voice spoke as he looked up… he looked at the bright light coming down as it started to take form, revealing a young girl. The same outfit that she wore all the time. However, she opens her eyes to look at him while hovering with her angel wings and having chains floating behind her. "And so, we meet…"

"Who are you, really? You sure look like an angel. Anyways… my name is-" Takeshi was about to speak as the angel quickly knew his name.

"Takeshi Inugami. Otherwise known as Paracesis. I know all about you. Same goes for all of the… 'players' whom I've gathered in my mind." The angel continued. "Now then, allow me to introduce myself. My name is AION. But it would have been better if you call me Io for short."

"AION, huh? So that's your true name?" Takeshi said to her as she looked down and frowned a bit.

"I… I don't know. But that's what my Master calls me… I've been trying to find out of who I am… if only my Master was there but I don't know if he's alive or not." Io said as Takeshi seemed to understand the situation as if she had amnesia regarding her existence. "And all I do is to be tasked to observe you all kinds of people as my job. But you… you seem to be a special case. As if you have your own resolve."

"My resolve?" Takeshi asked.

"Huh? Don't make me repeat it! The reason why you have this kind of resolve is your determination to protect your allies like family. It's common, no?"" Io said to him as he nodded.

"Yeah. Those guys are my trusted allies. Which is why I made a reason to join Bladerights in the first place. I mean… my friend Makoto-san asked me so I followed suit." Takeshi continued as he realized. "Crap! What's going to happen to me! I know I'm going to die by a boss!"

"You are correct. You're about to die which is a foolish way to do." Io then continued as she took her deep breath. So much for her being a tsundere. "But there is another way."

"Really? Tell me! I need to save my allies as soon as I can!" Takeshi asked her as she decided to propose to him.

"If you really want to… when you'll have to form a contract with me. So that I can grant you my blessing. A blessing of the goddess like me. Or, if you don't feel like it… you can just accept death. And you'll receive a penalty. I wouldn't imagine seeing you die like that. So… what's your choice, Takeshi?" Io said as he was placed with two kinds of decision but he was quick to choose the first one.

"Fine… I accept your contract so let's do this!" Takeshi exclaimed as he lends his hand out to wait for her response.

"A wise choice, Takeshi! Rejoice! Be grateful that you're about to receive my blessing to save your allies' lives. For I, the great Angel Io… Will aid you into your victory!" Io smiled with confidence as she took his hand as the light started to become bright as he felt a mysterious surge within him. However, his interface pops up as he looks at one text.

[ITEM RECEIVED - ? ? ? - Rarity: ? ? ? ]

He was unsure of what's going on until the light shines brighter until everyone switches back to reality. And just as that… the pillar of light rose up as it knocked back Loqi as he stepped away. Everyone was surprised to see what's going on.

*Persona 5 OST - Awakening

"No way… Takeshi?" Leafa who was still hurt when she got up as she looked at him standing.

"Hot damn… guess Takeshi had his wildcard up his sleeves." Makoto then got up as he drank his potion to see what's going on.

"Is this Takeshi's new source of power? What in Erthesia is this!" Maisha was astonished to see this happening as Setus watched.

"I see… this must be the power of the goddess itself…?" Setus said as Loqi became confused.

"Damn it. And I was so close to killing him…" Loqi was irritated as the light died down where Takeshi stood there.

He was seen opening his eyes as he held a uniquely designed one-handed sword where the blade was white and had gold outlines and engravings on it as the hilt had wings and broken gold chain on the bottom of the sword's pommel as he held the handle. Yet, the blade is sharp as usual. He looked at the blade's stats to see what it was. And hopefully why is he holding it in the first place. He simply wondered if Io somehow created a sword just for him but didn't want to jump into conclusions later on.

[Weapon - Sandalphon - Rarity: Exotic]

[Description: An angelic weapon made by the High Heavens. Archangels have tempered this blade to be empowered by the light. Those who wield it will gain tremendous power of might. It is once said that a certain Archangel had used this sword to judge vile humans of their wrongdoings.]

[Exclusive Skill - Paradise Lost: Cast a powerful chain bind from the ground to a single target, binding them for 7 seconds. 30 second cooldown.]

[Exclusive Active - Ain Soph Aur: If an enemy is binded by Paradise Lost, the enemy will lose defense by 20%. If the bind ends, the user will take 20% more damage for 7 seconds.]

[Exclusive Passive - Inquisitor's Enlightenment: When equipped, gain +3% of health regeneration for 10 seconds if your HP hits below 30% of your health. 120 second cooldown. ]

"Interesting… If this is the sword I'll use then I'll do so! I'll show you my resolve!" Takeshi said as he rushed into battle as Loqi readied himself once again.

"Don't think that having new powers makes you stronger! You're still a damn brat!" Loqi exclaimed as he swung down his halberd as he dodged to his left as he started to slide under him between his legs but he managed to cripple his foot as he managed to his right foot as he kneeled down. "Io!"

"No need to tell me twice, Takeshi!" Io said as she uses her chain to take his halberd away when he realized.

"Damn you, Angel!" Loqi snarled at her as she maintained her composure.

"You may be foolish to fight me but I'm afraid the knight here has his tricks up his sleeve." Io replied as Takeshi readied his sword's exclusive skill…

"Paradise Lost!" Takeshi exclaimed as he casted a powerful binding spell as he was wrapped with chains and a debuff where he'll take more damage. He then ran and readied his sword to stab him in the back as the battle was decided in a quick. "You're finished! HAH!"

And just as that… Takeshi manages to stab Loqi in the back as he was binded. The bosses' HP has reached 0 as he begins to fade away.

"Emperor… I've… failed you…" Loqi said his last words as he disappeared in blue particles. And it was over… the base camp now belongs to the Lostbelt Kingdom.

*Persona 5 OST - Sunset Bridge

And with that, the guild members who participated in the base camp liberation will receive a fairly large amount of EXP. But Takeshi and Leafa did earn them but didn't level up either except both manage to receive some items as a reward such as Lein which was about 10,000 in total they received which isn't bad.

"I-Is everyone okay?" Leafa said to everyone as the players and NPCs of Bladerights were somehow ok but most were injured.

"I'm alright but Setus got injured the most. But I think he'll manage." Maisha replied as she helped to get Setus up

"Good thing that we're all still alive. That's what matters." Takeshi said as he sheathed his sword. "Hey, Io. Thanks for the help. I really appreciate it."

"It's no problem. After all, I am a powerful angel and- Wait a second… W-What's this!?" Io then checks with her interface as she finds out and becomes flustered. "I-I'm… I'm Takeshi's property now!? This makes no sense!"

"Wait? What?" Takeshi noticed as he looked at his interface to see what's going on as he looked at his equipped inventory but nothing changed except his Sandalphon. Then, he checked his pets menu in which he never owned one up until now. He looked to see one which was none other than Io. He strangely owns her as his own despite her being a powerful angel from the skies much to his confusion. "Oh… I see. Guess that contract of yours must have gone in a weird way, huh? Sorry if you're that freaked out."

"I-I'm alright. I can't believe I have to serve under this… dumb human Hmph!" Io then pouted as Leafa approached him.

"Hey, Takeshi? Is she okay? Who is she anyways?" Leafa asked him.

"Long story. Apparently, she saved my life and helped me defeat the boss for good." Take continued. "For now… Io, we're heading back to the Headquarters. I know you're confused but we need to report back to Makoto about this. Along with your existence, I guess."

"Well… If this is what you choose then fine. Perhaps I can do this for now." Io then concentrates herself as she glows her body and shrinks herself into a size of a fairy as she has small angel wings and sits on Takeshi's right shoulder. "There. Much better. Now, head back to this headquarters of yours. Then again, becoming your property doesn't seem right. Or is there some role that my Master told me?"

"What are you talking about?" Takeshi asked her as she looked away.

"N-Nothing! I have nothing to tell you!" Io retorted as the group decided to head back to the Bladerights guild. Meanwhile, the mysterious hooded man overlooks the hill where the base camp is liberated. He takes a keen view at the certain angel who is being accompanied by the group of guild members.

"Hoh… So the AION System herself has appeared. Interesting… Seems this world has so much to offer. For now, I'll just head on over to the good ol king's castle at Lostbelt to send him a message. As much as I have other plans to do. I'll come back to you next time…" The hooded man leaves the scene as he disappears in the wind.

---

7/20/2028 Order of the Bladerights Guild, Isunia, Lostbelt Kingdom Evening - Clear Sky [INGAME]

*Persona 5 OST - Beneath the Mask -Instrumental-

A few hours has passed after a long trip back to the Kingdom of Lostbelt. Makoto was given a report by Takeshi himself as he went on to explain what happened along with Io's appearance. However, the guild leader seemed to understand the situation as he remained calm and looked at Io hovering next to Takeshi.

"I see. I understand the situation of what's going on. But she seems unique, I must say. She is an angel, alright. But that reminds me, Takeshi. It's strange that she'd decide to help you and end up like this as if you own her." Takeshi said as he scratched the back of his head.

"Sort of. I assume she'd act like my Private Navigator but she doesn't seem to mind." Takeshi said to him as he looked at Io as she pouted and looked away.

"Hello, everyone. Sorry I'm late!" Tisalia arrives after she came back from her arena match. "Did I miss anything? I had to earn my tenth win today."

"Oh, Tisalia. Good day. Takeshi here has an angel on his side. She's really adorable, huh?" Takeshi said as Tisalia was surprised at him.

"Takeshi! Your small angel here is truly adorable. Where did you get her, if I may ask?" Tisalia asked him.

"Long story but she saved my life during the base camp liberation when you were not around at that time." Takeshi said to her as Tisalia came to examine Io for a bit.

"She sure does look adorable but isn't happy either." Tisalia said as Io became bitter.

"Of course I'm not happy! What does it look like to you!?" Io exclaimed in annoyance as Leafa chuckled.

"I guess she's just trying to calm down. By the way, Makoto. What has happened since we finished our job?" Leafa asked him as he thinked.

"I'm not sure. We have a long way to go if we want to deal with the Sardegna Empire. For now, we can all have some free time. But I need Maisha to come back to the office with me for some help." Makoto continued. "Though, since you all liberated the base camp for Lostbelt. Perhaps we can throw ourselves a small party."

"Not a bad idea, Makoto." Takeshi continued. "But do you mind if I can go to a nearby blacksmith? I'm going to buy a new weapon."

"Why though, you have Sandalphon, right?" Makoto asked him.

"Io created it. Which is why I don't want anyone to be suspicious of why I'm carrying it. I just need a sword that is at my level. Simple. I'll come right back quickly depending on the time. Io, let's go." Takeshi said as he exited the headquarters.

"W-Wait for me!" Io exclaimed as she followed him as both left but someone came in.

"My, seems someone left in a hurry? I heard our good friend Takeshi went to buy a new weapon from a blacksmith, yes?" The voice of a british young woman as she comes in with her left royal shield with a sword sheathed. She had long blonde hair with cat ears and tail and had a blue silk ribbon tied behind her hair, blue eyes, and a modified Bladerights uniform that looked princess-like. Though, she had a usual kind smile on her face.

"Ahh, Mistolina Metera. Welcome back. How was your journey to the first you once lived in?" Makoto said to a feyline. Mistolina is none other than to be a former princess of Naterra which was burned down months ago. But, she lived a normal life when she first joined Bladerights. Thus, she is currently Makoto's captain of this guild.

"It was quite calm. I met some former residents who came from my lost kingdom and they seemed to be keen on restoring my kingdom back to its former glory. Can't wait to see their progress!" Mistolina replied with a chuckle as she smiled.

"That's good to hear. I hope you can find someone who burned down your kingdom along with your father… And maybe bring them to justice." Makoto said to her as she nodded with confidence.

"Don't worry. No vile person cannot stop me as long I carry the pride as the Forest Guardian and Princess of Naterra, that is." Mistolina said to him.

"It's cool and all but… I wonder if Takeshi is taking his time." Leafa wondered as she pondered about it.

LOCATION - Lisbeth Blacksmith & Forge, Isunia, Lostbelt Kingdom Evening - Clear Sky [INGAME]

*Persona 5 OST - Butterfly Kiss

Meanwhile, Takeshi and Io enter inside the blacksmith forge where he could see all the weapons placed on the wall and most of them are all on sale. But there were no customers but they were the only ones here.

"Hello? Anyone running this place?" Takeshi spoke as he looked around but found a young woman with pink hair, red eyes, and some light armor she wore as she noticed his arrival.

"Ahh, sorry. I was going to close the shop soon." The woman continued until she instantly knew his face. "Wait a second… You must be Leafa's friend, right?"

"Yeah. The names Takeshi Inugami. And you are?" Takeshi asked her as she introduced herself.

"The names Lisbeth. Leafa's longtime friend. It's a pleasure to meet you. Though, I'm curious." Lisbeth continued. "Why are you using your real name instead of your player name?"

"I do have a player name. But it's easier if people call me Takeshi. I assume you have a real name as well?" Takeshi asked her.

"Yes well… It's… Rika Shinozaki. But please keep this a secret, okay?" Rika said to him with a small blush as he nodded.

"Your secret is safe with me. Though, I want to make this quick. I want to buy a sword." Takeshi asked her as she was interested.

"Oh? What kind of weapon do you want then?" Rika asked him. "Do you want me to make a weapon for you instead? If you have the materials and Lein for it."

"Actually, yeah… I do. Here." Takeshi then uses his interface to give her the materials for a sword which consists of blue shimmering ingots known as Refined Azurite which resembled the shine of the moonlight. "I've been keeping them and I only have about 8 at the moment. Do you think you could make a useful but strong one-handed sword using Refined Azurite?"

"O-Oh! Sure. If I may ask, where did you get those?" Rika asked him.

"Ahh, my friend Makoto gave them to me. Apparently, he didn't want them anymore because the weight of the ingot would slow him down so I guess that's about it." Takeshi continued. "So… can you do it?"

"I can. I'll try to think up a custom sword I'll make for you. But with those ingots. I could upgrade them up to +5. Chances are… It could be either a Named Epic or Legendary Rarity since these materials you gave are quite rare." Rika continued as she had confidence in herself. "Alright! Leave it all to me. Try to be patient while I do the work. Oh and… It's going to be in the house so no need to pay me some Lein."

"Wow, uhh… That's generous of you." Takeshi was surprised as Rika headed her way to work on Takeshi's custom sword. Though he still has to hide his Sandalphon that Io created for him. That sword isn't supposed to be in the game much to his confusion. Why would she even do that in the first place. Does she even have the power to do that?

"So, Takeshi. Why are we even here again?" Io asked.

"I just need her to make a custom weapon for me. Now sure how long will it take but I'm going to wait it out as much as possible." Takeshi said to her as Io seemed to nod until…

"And it's done!" Rika said with pride as she brought him the completed custom weapon… "What do you think? Just as I promised. One custom sword just for you. And I'm quite surprised that this sword is shimmering like a moonlight alright."

"It's beautiful…" Takeshi said in awe. That sword was a bit wide but sharp. But the blade itself was indeed shimmering in pure blue moonlight from the moment it was shining. He took the sword and examined it. "I'm starting to like it. I assume you want me to name it?"

"Yeah. I couldn't think of an idea but the rest is up to you." Rika said as she placed both of her hands to her hips as she looked at him.

"I think I got a name for it… I'm just gonna call it Gekkou… Moonlight in Japanese. It's the only idea I can name." Takeshi said as he looked into his custom weapon's stats as it turns out it is a Named Legendary Weapon.

[LV51 Weapon - Moonlighter (Azurite Sword) - Rarity: Legendary]

[Description: Named by Takeshi. The blade itself is supposed to give out a blue shimmering reflection coming out of it. Thus, it shines like a moonlight.]

[Active - Bleed Skewer: Does +10% damage against enemies that are applied with a bleed status effect. Every 4 kills will apply bleed on the next attack.]

[Passive - Unwavering: +5% stun resistance.]

The weapon looked perfect for him since he has Ziedrich which works well. After all, crafting any sort of gear or weapon depending on rarity will provide you random talents. Both active and passive for loadout build diversity. He then sends his Sandalphon in his inventory and sheathes his Moonlighter in his shield. He looks at Rika where she finishes up what she's doing.

"Let's head outside. I just need to completely close down my shop." Rika said as he followed her outside of her shop. But, he had time to talk to her since he now has a new weapon to conceal his Sandalphon that isn't supposed to appear. "Well, I hope you're enjoying the weapon I made you."

"Yeah. Thanks for the sword." Takeshi replied to her as he decided to head back until…

"Hold up, Takeshi. There's something I want to ask." Rika continued. "Why did you need a second weapon, anyways? I assume your other weapon seems special. Exotic, perhaps?"

"It is…" Takeshi then turned around to talk to her. "I know it's a weird story. Like why do I own this sword? That weapon is called Sandalphon. I mean… She… made it for me…"

"Her?" Rika then looked at Io who was hovering next to him.

"It's not like I had to choose but to save his life! Hmph!" Io exclaimed in annoyance as Rika simply sweatdrops.

"Her name is Io. She's the one who saved me and provided me with the weapon. But… I just need to ask you. Since I kept you your secret. Can you do the same? The weapon Sandalphon isn't meant to exist in this game. And so there you have it." Takeshi said to her as she seemed to understand.

"Alright. I'll hold on to your secret as well so we're even. By the way, have you seen Leafa? I'm not sure if she must have logged out." Rika asked him.

"Ahh. She's still online. Currently at my guild right now." Takeshi said to her as she was reluctant.

"Then take me there! I just need to see her!" Rika exclaimed lightly as she only wanted to see her as he sighs.

"Okay, okay! I'll bring you to her. I just need to make sure that my friend Makoto acknowledges you as Leafa's friend. Now, let's go. I don't want to be late to their small celebration party."

LOCATION - Order of the Bladerights Guild, Isunia, Lostbelt Kingdom Evening - Clear Sky [INGAME]

*Persona 5 OST - My Homie

Just as both Takeshi and Rika returned to the Bladerights Guild to find Makoto, Leafa, Tisalia, Maisha, Setus, and Mistolina. There were no other Bladerights members around but just only them. However, Makoto noticed their arrival as they were drinking beer… except Mistolina who prefers to drink tea.

"Hey, Takeshi! You're late! Like, you're missing out on the whole stuff. Y'know… drinks!" Makoto said to him until he noticed Rika. "Hey, who's she? New recruit?"

"Not really. Her name is Lisbeth. One of Leafa's friends wanted to see her." Takeshi explained until Leafa got off her table as she ran and hugged Lisbeth.

"Lis! You're here! I'm surprised that you came here! I assume you asked Takeshi when we're throwing off a small party?" Leafa said to her as she nodded.

"I am. In other words, I heard you took part in a base camp liberation and got injured. Are you alright?" Rika asked her as she smiled.

"I'm alright, Lis. Besides, I'm glad you came. We're celebrating our victory ever since the base camp stuff. So why not enjoy ourselves! C'mon!" Leafa happily takes her hands and pulls her towards where the party was going on.

"H-Hey, Leafa! W-What are you doing!?" Rika didn't have time to react as they enjoyed themselves. Takeshi sighed as he decided to sit next to Mistolina as he decided not to drink.

"Hey, Mistolina. Haven't seen you in a while." Takeshi said to her as she sips her tea.

"And it's a pleasure to see you again, Takeshi. I heard you were busy today, aren't ya?" Mistolina asked him as he scratched the back of his head.

"Pretty much. Things are just wild for me today and I just can't keep up." Takeshi continued as he looked at the others enjoying themselves while Makoto and Setus were challenging themselves into an arm wrestling match but he was overwhelmed easily by Setus' strength as a result. "That reminds me. How's… talk to your former residents of Naterra? I heard you're trying to rebuild it."

"I am, sadly. It hasn't been an easy task for me ever since someone decided to show grudge against my kingdom and burned it down in the process." Mistolina continued as she took a deep breath and looked at Takeshi with her confident smile. "But that's not going to stop me from rebuilding Naterra with my own hands. All that matters is finding someone who did it and bring him or her to justice. Simple!"

"Sounds like you got a long road ahead of you, Guardian of the Forest. Though, I'm sure you're spending your time being part of the Bladerights Guild like I do." Takeshi replied to her as Mistolina giggled.

"It's alright. These people I meet are quite indeed nice. After all, it was Makoto who convinced me. He's the one that I joined. He promised me that he'd help me search for the culprit while I help him out on other stuff like missions and all that." Mistolina then looked at Makoto who was chatting with the others while Io was being hugged by Leafa.

"Makoto's my friend. He's always the man who would be willing to help anyone… and lead his own men to victory." Takeshi replied with a slight smile until everyone heard the voice coming from the entrance of the guild.

"U-Umm… Excuse me? Am I interrupting?" The young woman said to everyone as it was silent as Makoto noticed as he talked to her.

"Hmm? Not really. We're just hanging out. Do you need something, miss?" Makoto asked the hooded woman as she took off her hood, revealing her elegant silver long hair and silver eyes as she approached them.

"I do. I know this is rather… insane. But allow me to introduce myself…" The woman continued. "My name is Ernesta von Sieglinde Sardegna VII. Please hear my request… Please kill my father… the Emperor of Sardegna Empire!"

Everyone remained silent as they looked at Ernesta bowing for help. But they had a shocked look on their faces until…

Everyone: "EHHHHHHHHHHH!?"

And thus, their days just got a lot weirder…

---

7/20/2028 Unknown Location, Kingdom of Lostbelt Evening - Rain

*Persona 5 OST - Mental Breakdown

Meanwhile in the unknown location where everything was silent until there was a scream coming from a cave. However, something was not right as things turned into something grim. In the dark cave where the guild members of the Sleeping Knights as most of the members were brutally killed with tons of blood, disembodied arms and legs. But, there was a hooded man from before who once saw Io's arrival. But, he was rather mysterious. He had his hood off as he revealed his blond tomboyish hair and brown eyes where he was seen stabbing a dead body. Though, Erthesia Online's death system is pretty much where if a player dies and their body disappears. But instead, they will leave their corpse up to thirty minutes before disappearing. However, there was a young woman with light blue long hair which was almost pure white. She also wears a white and navy robe and holds a staff in fear.

"Aww c'mon… you guys are not seriously putting up a good fight, are you… Ooooh shit! I nearly forgot! I'm supposed to take their Fluctlights before killing them! Those who are dead already won't do no good!" The enigmatic man then turned around to a woman. "But you… I need you alive. Who are you again? Siune, right? Sorry, I'm just having some word jet lag, y'know?"

"W-What do you want with me… Please… Don't kill me… I beg of you…" Siune pleaded where he approached her and grabbed her neck with his left arm softly.

"Please, Siune. I don't want to kill you. I just want you to cooperate… Unlike these dipshits… They refused! This is one reason for what happens if you say no…" The man continued. "Ahh, right. I forgot to introduce myself… Call me… Enigma… I'm just a simple player like you. Except I'm different from the rest of you. Except I can be an alluring womanizer, to say at least."

"Enigma… What are you trying… to do to us…" Sinue asked as she felt fear as Enigma sighed.

"C'mon. Are you just gonna say that? Allow me to say it again… I just wanna kill some players for fun! Y'know. The usual of what PKers do!" Enigma then continued. "But since you're a woman… I wonder what happens if I decided to toy with you… But If I kill you soon… you'll be no fun and respawned back to Lostbelt Kingdom. I don't want that!~. So, Siune. Pick one of the two… Work for me and ditch those guys… or ask for a surprise! Go on! Choose!~"

However, Sinue remained silent as Enigma's left hand put more force as she was being slowly choked to death. She was about to lose vision until to the point where she pleaded…

"N-No more… please…" Sinue pleaded once more until Enigma let her go as she fell on the ground to get some air while breathing heavily. This was a true meaning of terror and fear itself… And Enigma is the definition of that. But, he simply facepalmed in the process.

"Really now? You pleaded again? But in your mind… you want a surprise? Okay!~ Surprise it is! Here I come!~" Enigma gleefully approached her as Sinue didn't have time to run or crawl away but she turned around and her head was grabbed by Enigma's right hand. And this was the point where he showed off his neat little trick… "Fluctlight Steal…"

Then suddenly, Siune felt a disconnection surge in her mind in a split second until her body stopped moving and has stopped… Enigma decides to let go of her head and kick her chest as her body was sent flying into a wall and crashed, causing her head to bleed from the in-game skull fracture. Enigma then looked at the blue particle which appears to be some sort of a soul but it was actually her Fluctlight in which all new AmuSphere headsets use Fluctlights. He then decided to put it in his inventory for safe keeping as he stretched his arms.

"Welp… That's the 10th Fluctlight Soul I've taken. But I guess my fun is ruined. No worries…" Enigma continued as he had a sinister smile and an ominous aura around him. "Gabriel… I will finish what you've started. Too bad you died by the hands of some brat during some Turtle Rock incident but I can't blame you. Along with that shitface PoH. But that's a huge mistake for them anyway. Now then… What should I do next… Heheh…"

Enigma decided to leave the cave leaving only the body of Siune in which her eyes are soulless. Resulting in her body as an empty shell. But behind the rock was a surviving member of the Sleeping Knights guild who was shivering in fear after Enigma is gone. He peaked out of the rock and comes to see Sinue's body which was lying there… And so, the threat named Enigma continues his plans but has disappeared. No one knows where he is now…

[TO BE CONTINUED…]

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ENDING - VERMILLION by Maon Kurosaki (TV Size)

Blaze away! Akatsuki no sora e

Bloodthirsty, Noble Warriors

Akaku tagiru kokoro ni yaiba to

Mui naru taigi o kakageyo

The scene starts with a art style of a black and white outline as it shows Takeshi was seen drawing his sword from his shield as he started rushing into action as he slashes through the players and Sardegna soldiers with ease until he slashes through the Sardegna commander as his head was decapitated as the blood's color was completely black as it showed the red bloody face of Takeshi in a colorized art style until the blood splatters the screen and transition to where he was seen standing on the war-torn battlefield filled with corpse and a torn flag of Lostbelt as his hair was blown by the wind.

Kagerou yureru shinfonia

Sono koe hibiku mikazuki yo

Then the next scene shows in the real world where Takeshi was seen walking down the streets alone in the city of Tokyo with no vehicles and pedestrians around during the rain as he was completely wet. Then, the scene transitions to where Suguha who was seen in his home as she remained silent while sitting on her desk as she looked at the family photo but the sunlight coming out of her window blurred out the others but her. Then the next scene shows Makoto drinking coffee alone until he notices something as he decides to leave his drink and leave outside his home as the light starts to brighten.

Kono mi kubeta honoo

Akenu yoru wa nai to

Sei o sakebu shoudou kagayaku

The next scene shows ingame avatar of Takeshi was he was drowning in the ocean abyss with falling glass shards showing the past events and memories until Io appears before him as she begins to hug him from behind as Takeshi begins to finally wake up as he exits the ocean abyss from the sky as he readied himself to fight.

Blaze away! Akatsuki no sora e

Bloodthirsty, Noble Warriors

Akaku nijimu itami hikitsurete

Hate nai kyouhon no daichi e

The next scene then shows Takeshi joining his allies as he starts to fight Enigma all by himself while Leafa is seen flying in very low altitude as she cuts through the Sardegna soldiers with ease. Then Makoto appeared as he readied his Iaido stance and unleashed his attack on the group of player killers as they were instantly wiped out until Tisalia, Maisha, Setus, and Mistolina grouped up as they combined their attacks to clash their enemies in one blow.

Eikou o utau disappear

Sara naru taigi o kakage yo

Then the last scene shows Takeshi who was bleeding all over after an intense fight with Enigma who conjured his dark fire until he started charging towards Enigma with rage as his eyes were shedding tears of blood along with his mouth as the scene brightened to transition. The battle ends as Takeshi takes a deep breath as he notices his allies and returns to them as it ends with Takeshi and his allies in a photo frame.

---

[Next Preview - Chapter 2: Keep the Heat and Fire Yourself Up -Minutes Til Midnight-]

Takeshi Inugami, the player from Erthesia Online who was saved by an mysterious angel named Io who gave him the sword she had created after the base camp liberation. But their small celebration party was cut short as they were approached by the princess of Sardegna who asks Takeshi and his allies to kill her father which turns out to be the Emperor of Sardegna. Knowing that the Empire will stop at nothing but to conquer and expand. They were left with a struggling choice until the Empire finally declared war on Lostbelt once again, turning into a brutal conflict of indecision…

Author's Notes: Hello, all! Thank you so much for reading my first SAO chapter and I gotta say. That took me the longest time to finish it and the most fun making this story through world building. What you just saw at the end is a new enigmatic but mysterious antagonist named Enigma. He's indeed mysterious, sure. But he always has tricks up his sleeve but has plans to do something about Io's existence. Sadly, he is only laying low for now since Arc 1 focuses on the war against the Sardegna Empire. But don't worry. There will be more chapters in the foreseeable future so I'll do my best. For now, I'll leave it off with important detail descriptions. Until then… Switch on your Youth!

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-[Erthesia Online Compendium #1]-

-PLAYERS-

[Takeshi Inugami]

Age: 22

System Name: Paracesis

Title: Relenter

Class: Knight

In-Game Race: Human

Role: Tank/Damage Dealer

Occupation: Rock Band Enthusiast

Affiliation: Order of the Blade Rights (Captain), Lostbelt Kingdom

Likes: The Pillows, Fear And Loathing in Las Vegas, Street Fighter III: Third Strike

Dislikes: "Does it matter to you?"

INFO: The protagonist of this story. However, he was once a normal person who likes games and rock music ranging from alternative, progressive, and metal. But, he placed himself into a greater problem after his life was saved by a mysterious angel named Io. Calm, easy-going, and serious. But, he tends to get carried away a little when he becomes too focused on combat. His sword and shield skills remained unparalleled unlike other players. As of currently, he owns two Exotics. Ziedrich shield which he earned from a raid, and the Sandalphon which was created by Io that is never meant to exist. Thus, he owns another custom weapon made by Lisbeth named the Moonlighter.

[Suguha Kirigaya]

Age: 20

System Name: Leafa

Title: Speedaholic

Class: Warrior

In-Game Race: Fairy

Role: Damage Dealer

Occupation: College Student, ALO Player

Affiliation: Order of the Bladerights (Officer), Lostbelt Kingdom

Likes: Her brother, Gaming

Dislikes: Player Killers, People who mock her

INFO: A long time ALO Player who happens to get into Erthesia Online after she heard of it's popularity. She was recruited by Makoto after she showed her combat skills against him and was placed as a Officer of the guild. However, she yearns in the heart of battle and loves flying at high speeds as a fairy race. Excellent on using Wind-based magic, she prefers to fight head on. However, she misses her brother who has gone to Paris to study abroad. Though, she secretly plays ALO a bit often.

[Makoto Amamiya]

Age: 24

System Name: Zenka

Title: Thunderclap

Class: Samurai

In-Game Race: Human

Role: Damage Dealer

Occupation: Part-Time Barista

Affiliation: Order of the Bladerights (Leader), Lostbelt Kingdom

Likes: Tranquility, Samurai films directed by Kurosawa

Dislikes: Someone ruining his peace time

INFO: The veteran of Erthesia Online who played it on day one. However, he becomes the new leader of the guild known as Order of the Bladerights after a certain incident that led Maisha to become out of control over a "false god". However, he views his guild and Maisha as a family and is willing to help the weak and destroy the strong if they dare oppose in some way. However, he is good friends with Andrew Gilbert Mills and works for him part-time at Dicey Cafe.

[Rika Shinozaki]

Age: 22

System Name: Lisbeth

Title: Blacksmith

Class: Knight

In-Game Race: Human

Role: Tank

Occupation: College Student

Affiliation: Lostbelt Kingdom

Likes: "I… rather keep it a secret."

Dislikes: A man named Klein

INFO: One of the 10,000 SAO Survivors. She decided to start a new life in Erthesia Online when she heard of its rising popularity. Thus, she decided to live a life as a blacksmith by setting up her own personal shop. However, she usually fights when in combat from time to time but prepares to make weapons and gear to improve her skills. She was met by Takeshi and instantly knows him as one of Leafa's allies. Thus, she is the one responsible for making a custom weapon for Takeshi. Apparently, both Rika and Takeshi became fast friends.

[Enigma]

Age: UNKNOWN

System Name: Enigma

Title: The Enigmatic One

Class: UNKNOWN

In-Game Race: Human

Role: UNKNOWN

Occupation: Player Killing, Torturing people for pleasure

Affiliation: UNKNOWN

Likes: Killing

Dislikes: Everyone

INFO: The mysterious player from Erthesia Online who first made an appearance when Io has first appeared in the game. However, he is a man not to be trifled with. As he seems to be extremely skilled with a longsword, he takes pleasure in killing players in PvP Zones and torturing them out of pleasure from noobs to veterans. However, he is very manipulative and tries to act so friendly and get what he wants. But, he somehow has a mysterious ability to steal Fluctlights from players for some reason. Sinue became Enigma's 10th victim after her Fluctlight got stolen by him. However, his plans are unknown involving Io's existence.

-NPCS-

[Tisalia Scythia]

Age: UNKNOWN

Title: Noble Steed

Class: Lancer

Race: Centaur

Role: Defensive Damage Dealer

Occupation: Heiress of her own transportation company

Affiliation: Scythia Transportation, Order of the Bladerights (Member), Lostbelt Kingdom

Likes: Participating in arenas, people that are well being

Dislikes: Pain

INFO: An NPC from Erthesia Online. She was sought out by Maisha from the Bladerights Guils. Thus, she joined as she wanted to prove herself as a valuable ally and a known arena fighter. However, she usually gets rided on Takeshi… only in some situations. But, she is well known by the arena fighters at the Lostbelt Arena and holds the record of 20 win streaks. However, she lost one by a player at that time. She continuously trains by herself and improves her skills. However, she is also the heiress of her own transportation company that she runs and all Centaurs all view her as a noble.

[Maisha Laforge]

Age: 16

Title: Magic Eater

Class: Warrior

Race: Human

Role: Damage Dealer

Occupation: Vice Leader of Bladerights

Affiliation: Order of the Bladerights (Vice Leader), Lostbelt Kingdom

Likes: Makoto's Leadership, Bladerights, Justice

Dislikes: Her past she has done, getting carried away

INFO: She was once a guild leader of the Bladerights guild after he father had passed away from his illness. She takes charge of the guild in order to carry on her father's wishes. She often gets clumsy and sometimes tries to improve her sword fighting skills. However, she owns a blade that used to belong to her father in which that weapon is capable of absorbing magic and releasing its power. But, she struggles to control it. Before the story, she met Makoto when he was looking for a guild to join, so she invited him in which he accepted. Seeing how Makoto grows through the ranks by becoming the first captain of the Bladerights. But after a certain incident when Maisha went out of control, Makoto stopped and saved her by giving her hope. As she wanted to atone for the things she has done. She decides to make Makoto the new guild leader of the Bladerights Guild while she demoted her role to a Vice Captain so she can give Makoto some guidance in order for him to lead properly.

[Setus Law]

Age: 42

Title: Lion's Roar

Class: Berserker

Race: Beastkin (Black Lion)

Role: Tank/Damage Dealer

Occupation: Captain of Bladerights

Affiliation: Order of the Bladerights (Captain), Lostbelt Kingdom

Likes: Justice, People with strong hearts

Dislikes: Corruption, Strong picking on the weak

INFO: One of Bladerights' longtime members and a trusted friend and ally of Maisha. Plus, he remains loyal to her. However, he was promoted into a Captain after his actions during the previous war against the Sardegna's invasion attempt on Lostbelt. As of currently, he remains a Captain to this day and leads his own squad that patrols around Lostbelt Kingdom to crack down on criminal activity and Player Killers. He is quite gentle and kind but he gets serious if things are going south.

[Mistolina Metera]

Age: UNKNOWN

Title: Forest Guardian

Class: Knight

Race: Cait Sith

Role: Damage Dealer

Occupation: Forest Princess

Affiliation: Naterra Kingdom (Formally), Order of the Bladerights (Officer), Lostbelt Kingdom

Likes: Nature, Protecting the weak

Dislikes: The culprit who burned her Kingdom

INFO: A former princess of the Naterra Kingdom. She lost her Kingdom and her father after the mysterious culprit burned Naterra into nothing. As a result, she moved to Lostbelt Kingdom in order to start a new life until she was sought out by Makoto to join the Bladerights and she agreed. However, she is exceptionally skilled with sword and shield without needing an escort. She is friendly and easy-going with her guildmates, especially Takeshi. When in combat, she gives respect during battle and shows no mercy when she fights. Though, she often spares people after beating them. But fighting monsters is a different story.

[AION/Io Jupiter]

Age: Over 1000 (But in her very young appearance)

Title: Heaven's Prosecutor

Class: UNKNOWN

Race: Angel

Role: Support

Occupation: Serving under Takeshi

Affiliation: UNKNOWN

Likes: Justice

Dislikes: Corruption, Takeshi's incompetence

INFO: An angel of unknown origin who is responsible for saving Takeshi's life and creating a Exotic Sword Sandalphon for him. However, she has a tsundere-like personality whenever she gets asked questions that are inconsequential But, she was unknowingly forced to serve under Takeshi as his personal Private Navigator. Her existence remains unknown at this time.

-GUILD-

[Order of the Bladerights]

Leader: Makoto Amamiya, Maisha Laforge

Captain: Takeshi Inugami, Setus Law

Officer: Suguha Kirigaya, Mistolina Metera

Members: 50

Faction: Lostbelt Kingdom

Info: A guild located in the Lostbelt's capital city of Isunia. It holds over about 50 guild members. Ranging from 30 players and 20 NPCs in total. The guild leader is Makoto Amamiya, he cares about his guild members like a family and looks after them. Makoto's Vice Leader is a kind NPC named Maisha Laforge who wields a magic-eating sword. However, the guild's name not only accepts recruits that require to be a knight or anything. They all accept anyone regardless of class like Rogue, Mage, Archer, etc. However, some members of the guild are part of Setus' squad that act like a police unit that will patrol around the kingdom to crack down any criminal activities. But, most of the members take on guild missions to get things done.