Hello everyone! I hope you enjoy the new updated chapter!
A special thank you to HappyTheCamper for beta-ing this!
Chapter 14
"I-I don't want to go in," Sachi wheezed.
Kirito stared into the open doorway. It was massive, ten times bigger then either one of them. The darkness inside almost seemed to swell, like it was seducing the swordsmen. He took a small step forward, before he looked back at Sachi.
"It'll be alright," he smiled, "As long as we stay behind the bass room barrier, we'll be fine. If we step over the barrier, it will active the fight."
Sachi gulped, she looked back at the dark. A shiver ran down her spine, and she wrapped her arms around herself. Slowly, she inched forward.
"I don't know Kirito," she said, "Something feels…"
"Off?" Kirito asked, tilting his head, "That's normal. All boss rooms feel like that, I think it is the feeling of entering a place that could end you…ah."
Sachi let out a soft whimper. She turned away from her friend in black, and peered back at the darkness. The longer she stared into the room, the more she thought she could see red eyes staring back. Her heart was beginning to race, pounding through her head.
"It's in there…" she whispered shakily to herself. What sort of monster was waiting inside this room of death?
Kirito held his hand out, "Do you want to hold my hand?" he questioned quietly, seriously.
Sachi's eyes widened briefly, she looked at the hand offering her comforting. A shy smile appearing on her lips, and she breathed in sharply. Carefully, she inched closer to Kirito and took it. She placed her hand softly into his, before she looked back at the door.
"We're just-just…looking, right?" she asked.
Kirito nodded, "That's right. We're just looking," he said. He squeezed Sachi's hand, "But don't worry, I'm certain I can defeat whatever it is."
"You're too full of yourself," Sachi sighed, "You know that?"
A smirk appeared across Kirito's lips, "I've been told that, yes."
"Maybe," Sachi mumbled softly, bravely, "Maybe we can defeat it….and move onto the next level…"
Kirito paused. His dark eyes widened, and he looked at the girl, "You mean, you want to join in the next boss raid?" he asked, his voice sounding oddly hopeful.
Sachi tilted her head thoughtfully, her free hand reaching up to press against her chest, "I don't know, but I'd like to…I'm level 70, that's…high enough, right?"
"I won't let anything happen to you," Kirito said quickly, stepping closer to Sachi and squeezing her hand once, "Sachi. Don't force yourself to do it, if you don't want to. You don't need to, but I'll be there to catch you if you fall."
Sachi felt a soft smile appear on her lips, "You said so yourself that the numbers aren't what they used to be," she said, "And…it's what I'm fighting so hard to do…to level up enough to be useful."
"Sachi…" Kirito mumbled, "You are more then just useful. You're a very powerful, and skilled fighter. You know that, right?"
Sachi simply smiled. She looked at the door, and breathed in sharply. Immediately her face sent into determination, however her shoulders was still hunched and her hands shook a little. Holding Kirito's hand did, in fact, help keep her calm enough but she was still scared.
The two brave fighters walked into the room of moaning darkness. It was welcoming them in with open arms, and very happy to have them. At first there was nothing, just pure darkness. They couldn't see anything.
Sachi squinted her eyes, trying to make some sort of outline. Her legs trembled as her heart beat louder in her ears.
"I-I don't see anything," she let out in a low tone voice, similar to a whisper but yet a whisper.
Kirito narrowed his eyes, "Wait," he suddenly said, tightening around Sachi's hand. This prevent her from walking further into the room, "It's a trap."
Sachi froze, her eyes widened and she sprung her head around to Kirito, "A trap?" she squealed out.
"The boss room's barrier line is right there," Kirito growled, glaring down at the line directly in front of their feet, "It was luring us in. Hoping that we'd step over it."
Looking down at the soft dim yellow line, Sachi gulped. Within seconds, a flash of dark blue erupted through out the room, candles of aqua blue fire swiftly began to burn. The flames licking up dark red crystal walls, and pillars. The flames burst brightly, and dangerously before shrinking back into a small flame.
Blood red, glowing eyes stared down at them. A hunching body loomed over them, suddenly in their faces. Where they had not been able to see, the creature not being there before, sent a sickening fear spike through them.
The monster was massive, it's body folded over which made it seem the monster was much bigger then what it was letting on. Dark blue fur, with large golden goat line horns on it's head. The monster's body was thick, and it had golden plates around it's arm and neck. It held a large sword, holding it down to the ground. It had a long tail that flickered about, revealing it had a snake head.
A monstrous horned creature with the head of a goat.
Large, sharp toothed mouth opened. Silvia spilling out as it let out a heinous roar, that erupted through the room and made the ground vibration. It roared into their faces, sending a burst of pure hot breath smack into their bodies.
Sachi's eyes widened so much that they burned. Fear ripped through her, reeling it's ugly head and laughed crazily. Disbelief also followed. This was the boss! This was the boss! Her legs buckled, and almost became jelly. She felt sick, she felt terrified, she was going to die!
A scream erupted through her lips, and she found herself spinning around. She ran, bumping her legs as fast she could. Her eyes becoming glassy with tears, and her throat suddenly tightening up as a thick, horrible, rope was wrapped around it.
"S-Sachi!" Kirito yelled, running after her, "Sachi! Wait!"
She knew he was calling for her, but she couldn't stop. She just had to get away, she was going to die! She was going to die! It chanted around her head. That faun was going to rip her in half, effortlessly. Sachi just had to get away, something was shoving itself way through her stomach and forcing her to run that much faster.
It was only when she found she couldn't breathe, did she come to a stop. She automatically advanced towards one of the black, grey and white cloud-like pillars and crumbled at the base. She curled up tightly, and pulled her knees to her chest, wrapping her arms around them and burring her face into them.
Kirito moved like a black blur, he stumbled out into the area. He paused in front of the cross-paths, his eyes moving back and forth, looking for her. It was only when he heard a hitch of a wheezy breath, did he turn around to see her at the base of the pillar.
"Sachi," he gasped, rushing towards her and falling to his knees directly next to her.
Sachi shook her head, she kept her head down in her knees. She couldn't breathe. An acid claw stuck in the centre of her throat, it's sharp nails ripping apart the soft flesh of the inside of her throat. It was becoming harder and harder to breath. A demolish straw was in the middle of her throat, her body shook, twitching and jerking as she was suddenly not in control of her body.
Kirito gently placed his hand on the small of Sachi's back, "It's okay Sachi. Just breath, okay," he said warmly, "In and out."
Sachi clenched her eyes shut, crushing them until they was burning. Until she couldn't see. A sharp dagger in her chest, piercing her with every shuddering breath.
"It's alright," Kirito said, gently rubbing the space.
"I-I," Sachi forced out, shrinking in the spot, "I can't. I-I can't."
Kirito moved closer to her, he lowered himself until he was as close as he could be, "I know. It's okay," he said.
"I just c-can't," Sachi wheezed sharply, her eyes watering, "N-No. C-Can't. I can't. I c-can't do it."
The dark haired swordsmen swallowed. He grabbed her elbow, and pulled her into a hug. Sachi had tensed up before relaxing, and letting out a sob. He held her tightly, and put his hand against the back of her head.
"It's okay. I know, you don't have to do it," he said.
Sachi sniffed. The pressure was still on her chest, but she was able to breath a little better. Her fingers dig into Kirito's black jacket. She twisted her lips together, she was never expecting the boss to be such a demonic nightmare. Nothing like the before, like the boss she had saw and helped defeat all those years ago.
"How a-are you s-supposed to defeat it?" she whimpered.
Kirito pulled back, and smiled, "I don't know, but…" he trailed off, looking away. Suddenly, he looked a lot more worried then before.
Sachi wiped her face, "You're afraid too?"
"Of cause I am," Kirito said quickly, "I haven't…I mean, that was one of the most…"
Sachi nodded in understanding. She moved back to sit with her legs underneath her, twisting her hands helplessly on her lap, "I g-get it," she stuttored.
Kirito closed his eyes helplessly, "But…it will be defeated…eventually…"
Sachi winced. She looked away, peering into the strange cloud-tornado like walls shakily. Her face was white, and wet. She groaned, as she opened her menu, looking for something to wash her face with.
"I can't believe I had…" she sighed, taking out a towel.
"It was terrifying," Kirito whispered, taking her lead and also taking out a towel, "We wasn't expecting that. It looks like its only weapons is that sword, but it most likely has special abilities too."
Sachi hiccuped, and rubbed her throat, "All bosses do, don't they?" she asked.
Kirito nodded, "They do. I don't expect anything else from it. It's a good thing I have, gha," he gasped, and shook his head.
Lowering the towel, Sachi peered at her friend with a small frown, "What is it? What's a good thing?" she asked.
"Oh, nothing," Kirito mumbled, rubbing the back of his neck.
Sachi let out a soft hum. While she was still shaken up, she was slowly becoming clear minded again. As she looked at her friend, she realized he was still using the black sword she had seen him have before.
"I thought Lisbeth-chan made you a new sword," she suddenly said, clocking her head cutely, "Was it not good enough?"
Kirito gasped, he shook his hands and head, "What? No, no. It is great! A perfect sword! I'm just, um…"
"Oh…you have a skill you don't want to talk about," Sachi realized, closing her now red eyes and sighing once more. The hand she was using to rub her throat, fell to lay on top of her chest. She pressed down sharply, and let out a cough.
Immediately Kirito's eyes softened, "Your asthma, is it getting worse?" he asked softly, "I don't remember you having an asthma attack that bad before."
Sachi tensed a little, "W-What? No, I'm fine," she smiled, "I can manage. I've always mange it, it's nothing new."
Kirito narrowed his eyes at her suspiciously. He opens his mouth, as if to speak when Sachi cut him of quickly.
"Oh, Kirito, I made Oyakodon!" Sachi squealed out quickly. She opened up her menu, and brought out the white container, "Or…at least, something close to Oyakodon."
Kirito instantly perked up, becoming like an eager puppy. His eyes widened so much that they looked like they was about to pop out, he leaned closer to Sachi.
"Oyakodon?" he gasped, "You really made it?"
Sachi nodded, "I did. I wanted to make it for you today," she said, handing the container to him, "It's probably not very close to the Oyakodon from the outside world, but I tried really hard. I used ingredients that was as close to the ones outside as possible."
Kirito gasped like a fish out of water. He looked like he was seriously about to cry. Eyes looking down at the container, and carefully pulled the lid off like he was holding a precious baby…he probably was in all honestly.
"I-It's…just food…" Sachi mumbled.
Kirito shook his head, "Food is life! I didn't choose the food life, the food life chose me!" he said with a grin.
Sachi let out laugh, "Well…make sure you take off your gloves before eating…it's a little messy," she said, handing him a spoon.
With a big grin spreading across his face, Kirito eagerly eating some, "It's so delicious! Such a food orgy going on in my mouth right now!" he gasped out, happily munching on more, "I feel like I'm on my way to heaven."
"Kirito," Sachi sighed, shaking her head with a small smile.
She opened her menu once more, and happily took out her own container. She had spent longer building this special dish, it was exciting honestly. She didn't get to try it yet, as she was in a rush to hurry and met up with Kirito…before Kuradeel making her life that much harder.
"What's that?" Kirito asked, suddenly right in her personal space.
Sachi blinked owlishly, "Oh? My, um, lunch?" she meekly said, opening the container revealing beautifully made dumplings.
"Wait!" Kirito gasped, eyes widening even further, "Is that G-Gyoza?"
Looking down at the dumplings, Sachi innocently shrugged, "Yeah…they're my favourite, and I wanted to try to make it."
Kirito's jaw dropped. He stared down at them in shock, his stomach let out a loud growl. Immediately he withdrawn with his lips twisted together, he looked away sheepishly.
"Do…do you want to try one?" Sachi asked.
"Yes!" Kirito gasped.
Sachi flushed, she let out another laugh. She picked a dumpling up with a pair of chopsticks, and held it out to Kirito. The swordsmen looked at the dumpling with sparkling eyes, he grinned widely and let out a soft laugh. He opened his mouth, and closed his eyes, allowing Sachi to feed him.
"Delicious!" he cheered, "You're amazing. What's this flavour? I feel like I know the glaze."
Sachi smiled, she looked down at the dumplings and hummed. She ate one and bites back a groan of satisfaction. It tasted just as she wanted it to be, "It's the result of a year of training and experimentation. I made this by figuring out the interactions between the thousands flavouring in Aincard, using herbs and spices too I found around. The herbs and spices here are so similar to the ones outside, they just have different names. You can really make any sort of sauce."
"R-Really?" Kirito gasped.
Nodding her head, Sachi found herself feeding another dumping to the way to perky swordsmen, "Yeah. Here, this one is a mixture of grogwa seed, shubul leaf, and carim water. I used herbage herbs and caronton herbs," she said, taking out a bottle and offering it to him.
Kirito peered down at the bottle. He licked his lips, and tried it, "It tastes like mayonnaise!"
Sachi let out a giggle, "Yeah, I worked hard on that one. Hmm, this one is oat seed, baron root, carim water and the normal tomato," she sang out, holding out a red bottle.
The dark haired boy looked at the bottle thoughtfully, "Hmm, is this…" he began, trying it without any worry and then gasping loudly, "Ketchup! Whoa!"
"Lisbeth-chan loves that one," Sachi said.
Kirito grinned at her, "I can definitely see why."
"And this one," Sachi hummed, taking out a dark bottle from her storage, and held it up, "This one is abilpa bean, sag leaf, oorafish bones and black sea basketing root…"
Kirito nodded his head. He licked at the liquid on his fingers and froze. His eyes widened even more, and he arched his back.
"No way," he mumbled, turning to look at Sachi with a gaping mouth, "Th-This nostalgic taste is…S-Soy sauce! You really are a gift from god, like what Agil said! Amazing. If you sold this, you could seriously make a fortune!"
Sachi sheepishly looked down, "You really think so?"
"Yeah, you wanted to open a bakery, right? Open a café instead! You'll get so much money!" Kirito cheerfully said, looking through the bottles before his lips settled into a deep frown. He suddenly turned around, and crossed his arms like a pouting child, "Actually, never mind that."
Tilting her head, Sachi let out a soft whimper. She looked at Kirito, and pouted worriedly, was there something wrong?
"Y-You don't think they're good enough?" she asked.
"….It's not that Sachi…I'd hate for my portion to be sold off. I wouldn't be able to have anymore, and they wouldn't be special anymore," Kirito said with a sigh.
"S-Special?" Sachi asked.
Kirito nodded his head, "Every meal you make is special, and if you sell them…I wouldn't be the only person to get them…" he huffed, before grinning widely, "So, I don't sell them. Okay?"
Sachi blinked, once then twice, "….O-Okay…thinking with your stomach," she sighed, but laughed.
Kirito shrugged, he crossed his arms over his chest again. The boy leaned back against the pillar and laid his head back, his eyes closing with a satisfied smile on his face.
"What can I say? I'm a greedy little shit," he groaned.
She couldn't help it, Sachi burst into giggles. Her face flushed pink a she laughed while curling up again.
"What?" Kirito asked, rising an eyebrow, "Did I say something? I was just being honest, I am a greedy asshole you know. I would still my cousins pudding all the time, she would get so angry at me."
Sachi giggled harder, "Oh Kirito," she gasped, laying her head against her knees and turning her towards him with a smile.
"I don't get it," Kirito sighed, "I don't see how me being a selfish brat is funny."
Closing her eyes, Sachi hummed, "Never change Kirito. Never change. Just don't, okay," she said with a small smile.
Kirito blinked slowly at her, "I won't, I guess…."
"Oh! If ain't Kirito!"
Both Kirito and Sachi shot up at the sudden voice. A tired looking man came stumbling up to them, with a small crowd of other men following him.
The man grinned widely, and waved, "Kirito!"
Kirito turned to him, and tilted his head, "Who are you?"
"Kirito!" the man whined loudly, looking like he was about to break down in tears, "Seriously man!"
With a small smirk, Kirito shrugged, "So you're still alive, Klein?"
Klein sighed deeply, "Still terrible with words it seemed," he clicked his tongue.
Sachi stared. She blinked slowly, and then glanced between Klein and Kirito. She didn't know Kirito had other friends, he was always talking about being a solo and brooding. Even now, Kirito was behaving rather off with his friend.
"Who are you?" Klein suddenly, noticing her sheepishly standing behind Kirito, "I mean, what's a solo player like Kirito doing with a young girl like you?"
Kirito blinked slowly. He looked up at Klein thoughtfully, "Oh, right. I supposed I should introduce you, huh?" he mumbled, stepping close to Sachi, "Sachi, this Klein. He's from the guild, Fuurinkazan."
Sachi's lips twitched. She looked up at Klein, ready to say something when she noticed his expression had suddenly dropped. Blinking in concern, she leant in towards Kirito, "I-Is he alright?" she whispered.
Kirito's eyes flickered. He looked up at Klein, and frowned, he tilted his head thoughtfully. Lifting a hand, Kirito waved it in front of Klein, "Oi, anybody in there? Are you lagging or something?" he asked, before suddenly smacking the poor man.
"Ow!" Klein yelped, holding his face, "What the hell dude!"
"Wasn't sure if you was bugging or not," Kirito shrugged coolly.
Klein snorted loudly, he turned his eyes back onto Sachi and smiled nervously, "Hello! Good morning, I mean afternoon! I-I'm Klein! I'm single and looking for a beautiful girl much like yo-" he began.
Sachi gasped. Her eyes widened, and she took a step back in surprise.
Kirito's eyes narrowed. He arched his back, and suddenly spun around. A foot went flying and smashed straight into Klein's face, successfully sending the other man flying with little to none effort.
"K-Kirito?" Sachi let out.
"Leader!" the men yelled.
Sachi suddenly jumped. She let out a shaky breathe, and stumbled backward when the men charged. She assumed they was apart of Klein's guild. They all came rushing towards her at once, it was too much to keep track off.
Kirito immediately stepped forward. He throw his arms up as if to prevent them from getting to Sachi.
"Aren't you Sachi-san? The White Arrow? I've always wanted to meet you! Hey quit pushing!"
Awe appearing across her face, Sachi's eyes ran across all the excited men's faces. Her heart skipped into her throat, as she stared in shock. They all knew her name? How? She doesn't recall meeting any of them before…
They knew her by that nickname. The White Arrow. Was it going to follow her everywhere?
"Well," Kirito began, tilting his head back with a sweet smile, "They're not terrible guys, aside from the face their leader has…"
Kirito suddenly let out a yelp. He stumbled back while holding his leg up, he grunted and glared at Klein, "Ow! Why'd you do that for?"
Klein growled in return, glaring back at Kirito, "Call it payback, asshole!" he snapped, "And what was that about me face? You little shit?"
Kirito snorted loudly, "I'm just calling it how I see! With such a long face, I'm surprised nobodies mistaken you for a horse yet."
"Oh, that's rich," Klein rolled his eyes, "Come from you, that's hilarious. You look like a little chipmunk! Go on, puff out your cheeks and say I love nuts!"
The dark haired swordsmen narrowed his eyes further, "Ah! Maybe you need-"
Sachi giggled, "Good after noon. We've actually been in guild for sometime now. Nice to meet you, Klein-san," she said, tilting her head as she came up behind the two arguing men.
Klein blinked. He tilted his head and gazed at Sachi before he narrowed his eyes into slits, "Kirito!" he snapped, throwing an arm around the shorter male and yanking him in, "You never told me you was in a guild already!"
Kirito yelped, "Ow! Ow!" he yelled as Klein began to tug on his cheek, "I can explain! Come on man!"
Sachi couldn't help but smile warmly. Who ever this Klein was, Kirito seemed to be really good friends. It was nice to see him having fun, even if it was a strange banter between the two. It made her giggle, and she sighed deeply. It was a really nice thing to see, in all honestly.
Footsteps began to echo through the air. Something was advancing quickly, way to quickly that nobody had any time to react. Only a bright red and orange blur rocketed through the air.
"Sachi-chan!" a loud voice squealed.
Sachi turned her head in time to have another body collided with hers. Before she knew it there was arms around her, and she was sent back with a surprised yelp.
"Sachi-chan, I was so worried! I went to your room this morning, and you wasn't there!" a familiar voice rambled, "I've been hearing that Kuradeel, that bastard, had been giving you trouble! So I wanted to come check up on you!"
Sachi blinked once then twice, before she covered the girl's mouth, "Asuna-chan, you're rambling," she teased.
Asuna stared and then slowly blinked. Her face became a soft pink colour, "Oh, sorry."
The long haired girl suddenly paused. Her eyebrows pulled together, and she slowly looked around, finally noticing all the other eyes staring at her. Her lips twisted, and slowly shoveled closer to Sachi.
"Do you know any of these guys?" she whispered, her hand going to her trusty sword.
"That's the Red Flash! Whoa! I've always wanted to meet her, but she's always so busy with the Knights of the Blood Oath!"
Sachi let out a low chuckle, "I'm alright Asuna-chan," she said, placing a hand onto Asuna's shoulder.
Asuna looked at Sachi from the corner of her eye, she then narrowed her eyes upon seeing a certain vanguard swordsmen, "What are you doing here with Sachi-chan?"
Kirito's eyes twitched, "We're in a guild. I have the right to be with Sachi, how do you even know her?" he grunted.
"What!" Asuna gasped, turning back to Sachi and grabbing her by the shoulders, "You're in a guild with that jerk! You never told me!"
Sachi flushed, she smiled weakly, "Sorry?" she said awkwardly. She wasn't sure what Asuna's problem with Kirito was, but it seemed to be mutual. Perhaps something happened during their time on the front lines?
Asuna pouted. She crossed her arms tightly and grumbled, "So unfair Sachi-chan. I really wanted us to be a guild together. We could have been guild sisters."
Kirito snorted loudly, he rolled his eyes and walked up next to Sachi, "Yes, well unfortunately she's in a guild with me, so if you excuse us, we have some important things to be getting on with," he said, gently taking Sachi by the arm.
"Oh, whoa, no way buddy," Asuna grunted out, grabbing Sachi's hand and pulling her back, "I'm not going to let you hog Sachi-chan just because you're in a guild together. Since this is her first time on the 74th floor, then we can explore it together!"
Kirito's eyes twitched, "What? Now wait-"
"Right Sachi-chan?" Asuna quickly said, turning to look at her friend with a hopeful smile.
Sachi smiled sweetly, "I think that would be a great idea," she said, which made Asuna beam.
"Hmm," Klein frowned, he put a hand to his chin and closed his eyes thoughtfully, "Why do I feel like I'm missing something here?"
Abruptly, whatever Kirito was about to say was lost within the sound of marching boots. A group of 20 odd men was marching up the pathway behind them, all of which wearying heavy black armour and long sharp looking spears.
Sachi blinked. She observed the way the men was moving, and wondered how difficult it must be to move while wearing the armour. She gulped, and pressed her hands together at seeing how tired they looked.
"Who are they?" she mumbled softly.
Kirito stepped forward, as if to block her from any danger, "They're Members of the Army," he said, "Back on the 25th floor, they suffered major losses and their numbers fell. Ever since then, they put power and strength over clearing, and have since stopped joining the front-lines."
Klein pouted deeply, and clocked his head, "I wonder what they're doing here?"
"Probably looking for the boss room," Asuna said with a hand on her hip, "Everyone's been working so hard to find the room. It's next to impossible to find."
Kirito snorted once more, "Sure."
"You got something to say?" Asuna bites with a dark glare appearing on her face.
"Maybe," the dark swordsmen shrugged.
Sachi shook her head, "Kirito and I actually…found it," she said quietly.
Asuna spun around to look at her with wide eyes, "Seriously? Where?" she gasped out, even Klein and his guild looked shocked.
"Its down that path," Kirito said, jamming his thumb over his shoulder, "By the dark death willow tree. It was using the tree's shadows to blend in with the tornado."
"Ah, so you found it by chance then," Asuna smiled.
Kirito grumbled. He frowned and turned away with a shrug.
"At ease!"
The leading man in black armour barked out. As soon as he did, the army following him fell the ground with gasps of tiredness. He arched his back, and made his way towards the small group of players.
"I am Lt. Colonel Kovats of the Aincrad Liberation Army," he introduced, "Have you already cleared the area beyond here too?"
Asuna narrowed her eyes, "I am Asuna, second commander of Knights of the Blood Oath. That one is a solo player, and this is Sachi," she said, placing a hand onto Sachi's shoulder, "No. The boss is undefeated, so there are still new monsters spawning in."
Colonel Korvats nodded his head in understanding, "I understand. Do you have the map data of the boss room?"
"You can't be serious," Klein let out, "Are you seriously considering to battle the boss?"
"Who are you?" the man said in return.
Immediately Klein looked like all his steam was ripped out off, "Aw man. I'm Klein. The leader of Fuurinkazan guild," he sniffled.
"Never heard of it," Colonel Kovats admitted, "But it remains the same. I would like any information you have on this boss."
Sachi felt a shudder run through at the thought of the horrifying monster boss. The deadly faun that looked like it was from a nightmare. She couldn't believe these men was considering fighting the beast.
"I mapped up the boss room," Kirito finally said, cutting through Sachi's thoughts.
Colonel Kovats turned to him, "The solo player," he said, "I'd like you to provide us with that map data then."
"You want it for free?" Klein snapped, "Saying that while knowing how damn difficult mapping is? It must have taken Kirito awhile to do!"
Kirito shrugged, "Not really."
"Not helping," Klein grumbled, with a shake of the head.
Colonel Kovats stepped forward, looming over the men with anger, "Listen, we distribute information and resources equally to all players and maintain order among the people. In regards to freeing everyone from this world, we unceasingly fight to make it happen as soon as possible!"
"And thus, it's naturally your duty to cooperate with us!"
Klein growled, hand going to his sword, "Damn bloke!"
"Calm down," Kirito said, holding his hand up to stop his friend, "He's right, in a way. We're all here, working together to get out. To get free. So I don't mind sharing the map."
"But…" Klein breathed out, "You're just being too nice, Kirito."
Kirito shook his head. He brought up his dark menu to find the data, "I don't have any desire to profit off map data of all things," he said, shrugging, "There."
"Thank you for your cooperation," Colonel Kovats said, turning back to his army and standing with his head high.
Sachi stared after the man, her heart beat horrible in her chest. She turned to Kirito, and carefully, lightly tugged on the sleeve of his hand, "A-Are they planning on b-battling….that thing?" she whispered worriedly.
The faun appeared on her mind. She bites back a whimper of fear, it was only when Kirito patted his hand against hers did she relax.
"If you're planning to try and defeat the boss, I'd suggest not doing so," he said, "It's not like the other bosses."
Colonel Kovats glared over his shoulder, "I'll be the one to decide that."
Kirito's eyes widened and he stepped forward, "The boss isn't normal! It isn't one that can be overtaken with numbers, you need skill and high shields, good team work! Besides, your troops aren't in the greatest shape right now!" he snapped.
"My men are not so weak that they'd give up so readily!" the man restored angrily, "All of you! On your feet at once!"
Sachi swallowed. She watched as the guild began to storm away, she bites her bottom lip as a horrible sensation twisted in the pit of her stomach.
"T-They wouldn't…" she mumbled softly.
Kirito stepped up next to her, and put a hand to her shoulder, gaining her attention, "I doubt they'll head straight to the boss," he said.
Klein stepped up to the two and grinned widely, "Well, why don't we go keep an eye on them. To be on the safe side. So if they do decide to anything stupid, we can stop it before it gets to dangerous," he said with pride. His guild nodding in agreement behind him.
Sachi felt her lips twitching into a sweet smile, "Klein-san, you have a big heart, huh," she giggled.
"I wonder whose really the nice guy then," Kirito grunted.
Klein flushed, and sheepishly rubbed the back of his head, "Sachi-san. About Kirito," he began, gaining a strange look from the dark haired swordsmen, "He's bad with words, and awkward. He's too invested in fighting, and not great at expressing himself. He can be selfish, and greedy, but he has a good heart."
"Hey," Kirito frowned, clenching his hands and crossing them, "What are you getting at?"
Klein smiled widely. He pressed his arms to his sides, and bowed, "What I mean to say, please take care of him!"
Sachi's eyes widened, "Oh?"
"W-What!" Kirito let out.
"I got it. Don't worry, I'll take good care of him," Sachi said sweetly, and a warm smile appearing on her face, "We've been together for sometime now, it'll be fine."
Asuna walked towards them. Her long orange hair bouncing along behind her, as she stopped and opened a single eye to look at them, "Well, how bad is this boss?" she questioned.
"Um, well…" Sachi trailed, placing a hand onto her arm, "It's very…"
"That bad, huh?" Asuna hummed, pushing a loose hair out of her face.
"Well come. Let's make sure those Army guys don't have any more losses."
~#~#~#~#~#~
A lizard like monster shrieked. It's head arched back with it's long tongue flickering back and forth. It leaped into the air, holding its long sword above its head.
Sachi let out a shaky breath as she rolled away from it. She winced as it slammed into the ground, she tried to get to her feet, but the lizard kicked her back down painfully. She quickly turned and grabbed her white wakizashi, pulling it up to block another attack from another lizard.
"Sachi-chan," Asuna called, moving like a red bullet between two more lizards. With a battle cry, she swung her rapier and slashed at the lizard, making it shatter like glass.
With a meek smile, Sachi grabbed the offering hand, "T-Thank you Asuna-chan," she said in relief.
"No problem," Asuna nodded, turning to face the last of the lizards. Both girls watched as the other male fights easily finished them off.
Sachi sighed, she wiped the sweat from her brawl and put her sword away, "They're more stronger then I thought up here…"
"It'll get easier," Asuna smiled.
"The only thing past here is the boss room, right?" Klein asked, "Maybe they already went back using their teleport crystals?"
Kirito put his black sword away, "Yeah," he said. He turned his stormy black eyes towards Sachi and sighed in relief upon seeing that she was fine.
It was then that they heard a loud shriek of a scream erupt through the air. Everyone froze, twisting their heads in the direction the scream came from.
Kirito's eyes widened, he clenched his teeth and arched his body, "Sachi!"
Sachi nodded in agreement. She began to race after him, before looking over her shoulder, "A-Asuna-chan?" she called hopefully. She knew how powerful her friend in red was.
"Right!" Asuna said, following after, taking out her rapier once more.
"H-Hey!" Klein groaned, "Wait up!"
Sachi panted. She bumped her legs as fast as she could, running down the familiar pathway and moving closer and closer towards a familiar looking gate away. The blue sparking flames twisting high in the air, and the heavy doors blown wide open. Her eyes widened, and her chest tightened.
"T-They went in?" she gasped, skidding to a stop in front of the door.
"Hey!" Asuna yelled, inching closer to the door, "Are you guys alright!"
Inside the room they heard more cries of pain. It was glowing a bright blue colour. The flames scuttling higher in the sky. The great beast of nightmares had it's back to the door, it's long snake-like tail flickering dangerous through the air while holding it's long sword high. In front of it was the men in heavy armour, all looking like they had been thrown about.
"Where's the rest of them?" Sachi asked, looking around the room to spot the other 15 or so people.
Kirito's eyes widened, "Oi! What are you doing!" he shrieked, watching as the monstrous faun swing its long sword. It easily knocked the men around like rag dolls, "Use your teleport crystal! Get out of there!"
One man stumbled to his knees, "We can't! It's a no teleport crystal room!" he yelled in horror, "They won't work!"
"But the previous boss rooms never trapped players like that!" Asuna gasped, crying out when the boss killed a player. She stumbled back with her face becoming whiter and whiter.
Sachi stiffened. Body shook, and she pressed her hands to her chest. She stared, but wished she could turn away. She felt light headed, dizzy like she was about to crumble to ground. 'No teleport crystal room' kept echoing through her head. Sickness crawling through her body.
"K-Keita," Sachi whispered brokenly, "T-Tesuo, S-Sasamaru…D-Ducker…"
Her eyes widened so much that they burned. Tears began to build up. Her guild, her friends, they all died in the same away. They had to get out of there, now! Before the boss kills them all! The boss won't hesitant if given the chance.
"Those of us in the Liberation Army shall never retreat!" Colonel Kovats yelled, holding up his spear, "Fight! With all your might!"
Klein finally met up with them, "Hey, what's going on? Oi! Why aren't you teleporting out!" he yelled upon seeing the room.
"Teleport crystals don't work in there," Kirito growled, "…If we raid the room, we might be able to let them escape, but…"
We won't be able to get out! Sachi whimpered, her shoulders hunching up further. She felt more tears build, and her legs becoming jelly.
"All of you! Charge!"
Kirito shirked, "Stop! Don't do that!"
The faun monster growled darkly. It arched it's head back before rushing forward, and suddenly throwing an acid-like blast through the air. It then held it's sword up, making it glow a sickly yellow colour before brining it down upon the helpless guild. This was more then enough to throw the men around, they all skidded across the ground, landing on their stomachs painfully.
Colonel Kovats flow through the air. He landed on his back directly in front of the archway, he gasped as his health bar fell to zero. His eyes widened, and before he could even say a word, his body shattered.
"No way…" Asuna gasped out, covering her mouth. She looked up to see that there was only one man left, and the faun was quickly approaching him.
"No…" she whispered, the faun holding its long sword up. Reading to strike the last man, and wiping out the whole guild.
Sachi cried out, "A-Asuna!" she screamed, watching as the Red Flash shot through the room.
Asuna held her rapier tightly. Her back was arched, and she charged straight towards the boss. She leaped into the air, and twisted her body, her rapier glowing a bright red colour. She brought it down like rain on the back of the goat, slamming her sword repeatedly into its furry hide.
The faun turned around. It swung it's sword at her, to which Asuna was just barely able to block. However, the monster beast then pulled it's free hand back, and punched her. It throw poor Asuna back across the room, the girl hitting the ground painfully with a loud sickening crack.
Asuna gasped. Her body shook painfully, she climbed to her feet while holding her rapier. She slowly trembled side to side, lifting her head slowly to glare up at the boss.
The faun stomped in front of her. Towering over her, while reeling its sword, ready to take Asuna out of the game.
"Asuna!" Sachi cried.
Sachi shoved Asuna right out of the way as the faun brought down its sword. She let out a cry herself, as the sword wrapped through her body, creating a horrible cut up her shoulder. Blood oozed out, and she stumbled through the air, her hands shooting up to the wound.
"Sachi!" Asuna gasped, twisting back onto her feet. She brought her rapier up once more, her eyes narrowing in a panic.
Sachi shuddered. She looked up at the faun with wide eyes, her heart skipping a beat as it pulled it's sword back. Without thinking, she grabbed her white bow from her back and aimed an arrow right at its face.
"Ice Burst Fang!"
Immediately, she released the arrow, it shot through the air while glowing a bright blinding white colour.
The arrow split into her newest and most powerful combo. 50 different arrows rained down upon the faun, as soon as they hit the fur of the monster, they exploded in loud shattering ice-like shards. It made the faun stumble back out, it lets out a loud sound from the attack and shockingly, it loses half of the third health bar.
Sachi then forced herself up. The attack was something she hasn't used before, and had only just unlocked it. It took a lot out of her, her legs was shaking and threatening to send her back to the ground.
"Sachi!" Asuna screamed as the faun still moved to strike her again.
The faun moved faster. It stomped it's leg, and suddenly swung it's sword again. It hits Sachi once more, throwing Sachi back to the ground with a loud thud. Her body shook as another slash appeared on her back, and more blood. She forced herself back up, her health bar falling into the dangerous red.
Sword high, the faun stared down with blood red eyes. One more blow, she was gone. Sachi heart leaped into her throat, and eyes burning in pure fear as the boss was ready to end her completely.
Sachi let out a cry. She clenched her eyes shut, waiting for the blow. Instead, however, she heard a loud clank.
Kirito was in front of her. He held his back sword high, holding it with both hands to block the faun's sword. His body shaking, and clenching his teeth as the faun put more weight on it. He let out a deep growl, and twisted his body, shoving the monster back and making his black sword to glow a black light.
He slashed at the monster, taking more health from it. However, every time he hit the creature, the faun was able to slash back in return.
"K-Kirito!" Sachi winced, seeing the blood appearing along his arms.
Kirito growled. He arched backward, and spun around. He leaped forward, wrapping his arms around Sachi, and skidding across the ground, avoiding having him and Sachi being crushed underneath the sword.
"Kirito," Sachi gasped, trying to move but her body refused to let out. She was in to much pain.
Kirito shot up, he swung his sword as the faun throw its sword at them again. This time, Kirito met the sword right on and forced it to change directions. It slammed into the ground next to them, but missed giving them any damage.
Sachi let out a shaky breathe. Her eyes widened upon seeing Kirito's own health bar sinking. While he wasn't yet in the red zone, it was getting dangerously close to it. Unlike her own, she barely had any health point left, one wrong move and she'll be a goner.
More blood was coating Kirito's coat. She could see more cuts appearing through his coat, but he kept trying. Trying to save them.
Sachi inhaled sharply, despite her body screaming in protest, she forced herself. She readied her bow with shaky hands, and prepared an arrow, aiming it back up at the faun. She winced, and clenched her teeth.
"Kirito! Switch!" she cried out.
Kirito glanced back before rolling out of the way when the blinding white arrow shot past him. It moved fast, like a white blur, shooting high above the creatures head. It then split once more into 50 arrows, ice forming around the arrows and raining down on the fauns head.
"Red Wind Bullet!"
Asuna took the opportunity to move forward. Her rapier becoming bright red, she spun it and released a bright red mini-tornado like attack. Just as it was about to hit the faun, she shot forward like a bullet. Her rapier still glowing red, she slashed faster then anybody could see. It moved back and forward until the faun had no other chose but to back away.
Both attacks, together, took another large portion of the bosses health bar. It only had one health bars left.
"Switch!" Kirito said, suddenly standing up from the ground.
Asuna backed away, allowing Kirito to move forward. He twisted himself, using his glowing black sword to block the faun's own sword. A light blue light shined on his back as another sword appeared. Kirito made grab for it, pulling it free.
A black light flashed through the fauns body, throwing it backward. It skidded across the ground, landing on it's back and revealing Kirito standing with two glowing black swords. One a black sword, while the other shiny crystal blue sword.
The faun twisted itself. It quickly got back to it's hoofed feet, and swung its sword. Kirito blocked it easier with two swords, but still struggled from the monster's strength.
"Black Starburst Stream!"
Kirito moved fast. He arched his back, swinging both swords back and forth. Moving faster and faster, striking harder and harder. Slashing over and over at the faun's tarsal. Black light flickered around the faun's body, and blue blood began to appear within the fur.
He moved faster then anything. Faster then what anybody had ever seen before, ripping apart the faun's body with every burst of the blades.
The faun suddenly grabbed Kirito's sword. It twisted it's long sword, bringing it down upon Kirito.
Sachi shook her head. She readied up her bow once more, and aimed it at the faun's head. Abruptly it shot through the air, slamming into the head of the creature. It imprinted it self directly between the faun's eyes, and was more then enough for Kirito to deliver a powerful attack to the faun's middle.
The glowing black sword sliced through the stomach of the beast.
The faun paused in movement. It's large body arched over Kirito, and ever so slowly, it's large sword slid out of its massive hand. It slammed into the ground, and laid still before it burst into familiar looking shards. The faun followed too, shattering as well and leaving just Kirito standing there with his swords out stretched.
"Is it…over?" Kirito breathed out, orbs of lights floating around him.
Congratulations! Gleam Eyes defeated!
75th floor available!
Kirito let out a shaky breathe. He falls backward, and lands on his backside. His health bar was in the red zone, but he still had more than enough points to live until he took a potion. He sighed in relief, and groaned, arching his back as his sword fell to the ground with soft thuds.
"Ouch," he mumbled, holding his head.
"Kirito!" Sachi coughed, stumbling towards him. She was covered in blood, just as Kirito was.
Kirito stared before letting out a sharp wheeze, "You're…" he sighed in relief.
Sachi let out a hiccup followed by a sharp cough, "You're an idiot," she said, throwing her arms around his neck, and hugging him.
"Hey," Kirito smiled, wrapping his arms around her. He gently places his hand against the back of his head, "If you hold me too tightly, my HP will depleted."
"T-That's…" Sachi sobbed, a shaky cough escaping her lips, "That's not funny."
Klein slowly approached them, "Korvats and three other men died. My guild was able to get them out in time," he said in sorrow.
More people then either Kirito or Sachi thought had survived.
Kirito looked away, "This is the first time there have been casualties during a boss raid since the 67th floor," he said quietly, closing his eyes briefly.
Asuna limped, "Is this even a r-raid?" she mumbled, reaching down and holding her leg. There was a horrible cash going up her leg, revealing blood running down said leg.
"Korvats, that numskull…" Klein said, clenching his fights, "If you die, there's no point to it all…"
Klein then shook his head, "Oi, that aside. What was that earlier? All of you actually did some wild things!" he said, eyes widening as he looked between the three players.
"Do I have to tell?" Kirito mumbled.
Asuna snorted, she moved and winced, "Mine is called Red Wind Bullet," she explained, hand laying on her rapier, "It's one of the highest rapier skills. I recently unlocked it…haven't used it until now…"
"It was pretty badass," Klein said, "The tornado you summoned, damn."
Asuna smiled, "I suppose it was…"
Kirito hugged Sachi tightly before pulling away, "Um. What I used…it was the extra skill: Dual Wielding."
"What're the conditions to obtain it!" Klein asked, his jaw dropping.
"If I knew, I'd have told everyone," Kirito chuckled, a weak smile appearing across his lips, "I just…leveled up once day and suddenly had it…"
Asuna hummed, "It's not in the information brokers list," she said, looking through the list with a frown and sighed deeply, "I guess it's exclusive to you then."
"A Unique Skill…" Klein muttered, "Jeez, that's not fair, Kirito. How could you keep such an amazing skill a secret?"
"Around six months ago, I opened my skill window, and it was just there. The dual Wielding skill," Kirito explained, "However…if it became known that I had such a skill…"
"Hmm, jealousy," Asuna grumbled, rubbing the back of her head as she took out a potion to heal herself up.
"Yeah. Online gamers are prone to jealousy, no telling what would have happened…" Klein said, "What can happen. I'm a good guy, so me aside, it wouldn't be unlikely for people to envy you."
"What are you looking at?" Asuna huffed at him.
Klein turned away, "Nothing. Nothing at all."
"Well, think of that hardship as a part of life and keep on fighting, you one," Klein quickly added, returning his attention back to Kirito.
Kirito sighed, "It's not like that…"
"Um, Kirito, when you ran in to save the Army guys…how should I put this? I was glad…" Klein said with a watery smile before he laughed, "I remember before. Mister sulky, brooding guy. What happened dude?"
Kirito smiled weakly. He shook his head, and leaned his head against Sachi's, "I…I guess, I met somebody who taught me to care…"
"I was scared Kirito," Sachi suddenly said, cutting through the air before anybody could say a thing. She pulled back with round, wet eyes, "I…I wasn't sure what I'd do if you died too."
"Hey, what are you talking about? I promised I wouldn't leave you," Kirito said with a smile, "You're the one who ran in first, remember."
"Well, actually that was Asuna-sa-" Klein began, before being cut off when Asuna elbowed him.
Sachi shifted. Another cough escaped her mouth, she moved back as she lifted her hands to cover her mouth. Her body trembled as the familiar feeling a clue appeared in the middle of her throat, making it difficult to breathe. She felt dizzy. Her head was like heavy on her shoulders. Her ears were ringing as well.
She gasped deeply, and whimpered. She hiccuped softly. Sachi couldn't speak. She had never felt this before, and it was tightening his stomach, like there was a clawed hand inside her stomach.
It hurt! Hurt so much!
"Sachi!" Asuna gasped, falling to Sachi's side, "What's wrong?"
Kirito shook his head, he moved forward, "I need you to breathe," he said.
Sachi inhaled, but a sharp sensation ran through her body. Her eyes watered, and sickness formed through her veins. Her hands pressed down on her mouth as if to stop herself from wheezing, but it grow and grow, becoming much more violent.
Pain flared through her. She tried to move backward, but instead crumbled. Kirito was at her side within seconds, he carefully placed his arms around her shoulders, holding her.
"In and out Sachi, come on, please," he said in panic, his eyes widened as he noticed something.
Asuna's eyes widened, and her jaw dropped, "W-Wait! What's happening? Is she being attacked?" she squealed out.
"No, it's..it's…it's…" Kirito gasped out, clenching his hands tightly, "No. No. Sachi, come on. Please. You need to force yourself to breath."
"Asthma," Asuna finally realized, "Why is it…"
Sachi whimpered. Everything was beginning to blur around her, starting to twist and turn. Spinning. Darkness was beginning to crawl at the edges of her eyes. Her fingers twitched and she suddenly couldn't hear. Everyone's panicked voice echoed almost like they was all underwater or very far away.
"Sachi!" Kirito cried out, making a grab at her.
Sachi inhaled a sharp breath and that was enough. Her body pulsed. Her eyes rolled back and suddenly, her body burst into glass shards of death. The expression on her face was of terror, she wasn't expecting to die…
"Sachi!"
They stared. Sachi body glowed as green and blue glass shards spilled through her body, singling her death. The shards bounced upon the ground, while orbs of white began to fade away around them.
Kirito sat there, his eyes wide and mouth fallen open. His hands shook, with his fingers twitching. His arms was held out, just as he had been holding Sachi. He made a fruitless grab at the orbs and shards, as if to grab them to prevent them from disappearing.
"Sachi…" he said.
Asuna crumbled in a heap, her hands shooting up to her head and pulling at her orange hair. She let out a high pitched cry, tears beginning to spill down her face. Her mouth hanged open, as her shoulders shook.
"Holy shit," Klein said, taking a step forward before falling to his knees.
The room of the defeated boss was silent. Thick tension danced through the air.
"That's…t-that's not fair…" Kirito whispered shakily, his fingers twitching and curling into fight fists. He slammed it into the ground, "That's not right! She…I promised! She wasn't attacked! It's not fair!"
Asuna covered her face, "I don't understand! She was fine! How did Sachi die!"
"Asthma attack…" Klein said slowly, his eyebrows pulling together, "But…how?"
Kirito suddenly turned on him, "Klein!" he yelled, grabbing the man's shoulder tightly, "Quickly! Give me the Stone!"
"Stone?" Klein repeated slowly before gasping, eyes widening, "Oh! The Divine Stone of Returning Soul!"
The man quickly took out the stone. He handed it to Kirito.
The dark haired swordsmen held it tightly, "Sachi, Sachi," he repeated, holding it out, "Come on! She not gone! It hasn't been 10 seconds!"
At first nothing happened. Kirito's hand shook while holding the stone, tears slowly swelling up and beginning to drip down his cheeks.
"Kirito…" Asuna mumbled, reaching for the arm but Kirito shrugged her off.
"Please!" Kirito begged, "Please, Sachi, come back!"
Then it happened. The stone glowed, the light blue and green becoming brighter and brighter, until it was blinding everyone. The stone grow hotter in Kirito's hand until he had no chose but to drop it. It bounced against the floor and disappeared, as it dissolved shards of colourful glass appeared. They began to form together, building a familiar looking figure.
The light erupted, making everyone to cover their eyes.
A body slumped forward into Kirito's arms. It was numb, and nearly lifeless, yet still breathing!
"S-Sachi…" Kirito let out, looking down at her. More tears fell and he tightened his arms around her.
Asuna covered her mouth, "It worked. S-Sachi!" she sobbed, moving forward, hugging her as well.
Both powerful warriors sobbed their hearts out. Hugging the sleeping girl tightly, while crying.
Klein sighed in relief, "Well…it's a good thing I didn't sell it then…"
"Sachi."
~#~#~#~#~#~
"The Army's great warriors were annihilated by a blue demon. And a fearless trio stood their ground to take it down, all of which having powerful skilled 50-hit combos. However, the one who landed the finishing blow was a dual-wielder utilizing a 50-hit combo."
Agil let out a joyful laugh, "Whoa, they really blow this out of proportions!"
"There's a limit to how much a story can embellished," Kirito groaned, head laying into his hand, "Because of that, I've been stalked by swordsmen and information brokers all day, so I can't even stay in my room anymore…and not just that…"
Kirito paused, he peered back over his shoulder was soft eyes. He frowned, and bites his bottom lip worriedly.
"Yeah. That's been crazy too," Agil admitted, "She'll wake up soon."
Kirito nodded, he turned his head back around, "I hope so. We wasn't sure how long the effects of the stone will last, it's been three days now…" he said.
Sachi laid sleeping on the bed behind them. Thankfully, Agil had took the two in when Kirito and Asuna appeared, with the sleeping girl. It didn't take long for Agil to understand what had happened. Just as everyone has been going crazy over Kirito's new duel-wielding skill, they've been chasing him to find if it was true.
If somebody had died from having an asthma attack.
"She had asthma before, right?" Agil asked.
Kirito nodded, "Before SAO? Yeah. She told me it was pretty bad, she had to stay in a hospital for some time, and had an nurse…" he trailed off, "She never told me it was getting so bad…"
"Bad enough to affect her health bar," Agil said with a worried frown, "It's a good thing you had that rare item, otherwise we would have lost Sachi for good."
Kirito lowered his head, "Well…I went after it for her. It's only right it was used on her…but…I'm not sure what to do now. If an asthma attack so bad that it took health point from her health bar, how am I supposed to counter that? It killed her because the boss had already taken so much of her health beforehand…" he said, biting his bottom lip harshly, "I know it will happen again. She's always having asthma attacks."
"It's a shame there isn't any inhalers in SAO," Lisbeth said, entering the room holding a box of different things, "I think that's what people with asthma uses."
"An inhaler?" Kirito repeated, hand to his chin, "If only it was that easy. I bet Kayaba Akihiko didn't anticipate something like this happening."
Lisbeth hummed, walking over to Sachi and sitting down next to her, "Doesn't seem fair does it. Like it's against the rules, or cheating, or something…" she mumbled, taking Sachi's hand tightly, "Wake up Sachi-chan, everyone's waiting for you."
Suddenly fast footsteps filled the air. The door to the room sprung open and Asuna stumbled in. She was panting heavily, while pressing a hand to her chest.
"I found…" she began, gasping before groaning, "I found an inhaler!"
Everyone stared at her in surprise.
"How did you know that's what Sachi needed?" Agil asked, clocking his head. She wasn't here a moment ago.
Asuna looked at Sachi and bites her bottom lip, "If Sachi has asthma, then she'll need an inhaler. Yes? So I began to ask around for one, I found one! But we have a problem…"
"What type of problem?" Kirito demanded, getting up to his feet.
Asuna whined. She tilted her head, and closed her eyes.
"Commander Heathcliff has one, but he refuses to hand it over."
~#~#~#~#~#~#~
"I believe this is our first meeting outside a boss raid, isn't it Kirito-san?"
Kirito inhaled sharply. He stood in front of a desk with 5 men in red and white armour. He clenched his hands as he stared down at the man.
"No, we spoke before during the 67th floor's boss raid conference," Kirito said, "Commander Heathcliff."
Heathcliff was everything everyone said he was. He was a strong looking man, with a serious expression on his face.
"That was a difficult battle," Heathcliff admitted, closing his eye briefly, "We nearly suffered casualties then. Despite being hailed as the top guild, our strength is always barely sufficient."
Kirito looked off to the side, "Sure."
Asuna shifted at his side. She looked between the two, and winced. She could feel the tension already between the two men.
"C-Commander, I, um, brought Kirito-kun here for-" she began.
Heathcliff held a hand up with a wistful smile, "Yes. I know why Kirito-san is here," he said, "He wants this."
The inhaler the man had was red with an white end. The handle had the familiar symbol of the Knights of the Blood Oath.
"Heathcliff-san," Kirito began, narrowing his eyes at the inhaler, "Please understand. I'll give you whatever you want, any number. Sachi, she-"
"Yes, I've heard about poor Sachi-san," Heathcliff said, closing his eyes briefly, "I have to say…it was very unexpected. To think something simple like that could end our lives is truly terrifying."
Kirito swallowed. He stepped forward, "Then you understand why I need it. If I don't have it, Sachi could really die. Please, I have to have it."
"Unfortunately I cannot hand it over to you," Heathcliff said, placing the inhaler back onto the counter of his desk. He stared at Kirito with a dark look.
"Kirito-san, if you insist to take this, then I propose you win it with your sword. Your dual wielding."
Asuna's eyes widened, "W-What?" she gasped out.
"Are you suggesting a dual?" Kirito asked, his voice coming out in a growl.
Heathcliff nodded, "If I am defeat in a duel, I will grant you this to keep and use as you will. However, should you lose, you and Sachi-san, must join the Knights of the Blood Oath."
Kirito tightened his hands into fists until his knuckles became white. He inhaled sharply, a horrible growl twisting in his chest. He couldn't believe Sachi's well being was used for such a thing.
"Very well. If you want to let our swords do the talking, I have no problems with that. Either way, I'm winning that inhaler," Kirito said firmly, "Sachi needs it, so I will get it."
"Let's settle this with a duel."
