N/A: not many people are reading this, so i don't know how many times more i'll update
ive noticed i'm not getting many reviews like i used too, i'm not sure if i'll continue writing
its probably my fault for taking so long to rewrite.
anyway thanks to the people who have came back and left a review! i love reading them all!
i'm so sorry for taking so long to update and rewrite it!
Chapter 15
"If you defeat me 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."
Agil hummed loudly, he tilted his head and put a hand to his chin, "Heathcliff really said that, huh? What did you say?"
"He said!" Asuna snorted loudly, glaring at Kirito a little, "He said, and I quote: Very well. If you want to let our sword do the talking, I have no problems with that. How stupid, Heathcliff is one of the best players, I bet he is higher than you."
Kirito snorted himself. He closed his eyes and turned away, "I don't care. I'm strong enough to try at least. I need that inhaler, I'm going to win it one way or another."
Asuna groaned, she put a hand to her head and shook it, "Why would you accept Heathcliff-san's challenge? There surely must be another way to get the inhaler from him."
"You're talking like you're expecting him to defeat me," Kirito said.
The dark haired swordsmen frowned deeply. He looked between the people in the familiar room, and pouted. He huffed deeply, and crossed his arms. Kirito sulked backward with an annoyed grunt.
"Thanks a lot guys," he muttered, "I feel the support."
Agil sighed, he shrugged his shoulders, "You can't blame us. Heathcliff-san is the leader of the Nights of the Blood Oath, you know, SAO's most powerful frontline-guild. Who else was I going to bet on?" he asked, cloaking his head as he spoke.
"Wait," Kirito gapped, "You betted against me? Who does that? What kind of friend does that?"
"Well…" Agil grumbled, scratching at his cheek sheepishly.
Asuna blinked slowly. She looked between the two strong players, "I'm inclined of agreeing with Kirito here," she said, crossing her own arms with a pout, "How come I wasn't included in this bet? I want in."
Kirito groaned loudly, "Seriously? You too? What? Does nobody have any faith in me at all?"
Lisbeth turned away from the sleeping girl in the bed. She peered at the three players sitting around the wooden table in the middle of the room.
"I bet Sachi-chan would have," she said.
Automatically the room became more tensed. Everyone quickly became sad, depression and despair starting to appear across their faces. Everyone looking down at the wooden table with weak frowns and pouts upon their faces.
"Why isn't she waking up?" Asuna finally said, her frown deepening, "How is she asleep in the game like that? It's not even…real…so how?"
Kirito sighed deeply, "It's the side effect of the item I used."
"The Divine Stone of Returning Soul, that's what it was called, right?" the pink haired blacksmith asked.
"Yeah," Kirito nodded his head, "Something…I mean, back when Sachi and I was in a guild together, something happened and I thought I found a way to bring back our guild friends…"
Lisbeth gasped. She put hands together as her eyes widened, "You lost your guild? Like me…"
Agil put a hand onto Kirito's shoulder, "The stone? Right, you thought it would bring them back?"
"Yeah, I thought the stone could be used to bring them back…" Kirito explained. He looked away and bites his bottom lip sharply, "Turns out the stone can only be used on one person, and it has to be within 10 seconds after they died."
"Probably just before the time the NerveGear fries the brain," Asuna said thoughtfully.
Kirito clicked his tongue, "Yeah, I figured that too…"
Lisbeth sighed, "So this stone of returning souls, or whatever, is the reason why Sachi-chan's sleeping?"
"Yes, Sachi was taken out of the game. You have to realize she was removed completely, and the NerveGear was ready to fry her brain," Agil said, "The stone blocked the electric vibrations used to start the attack, and so, the game has to readapt to her being back in the game. I think she'll wake up soon, the brain's probably going through some sort of a shock."
Placing his face into his hand, Kirito peered over at Sachi, "Everything in SAO is branched from our brains after all."
Both Asuna and Lisbeth stared at him. They blinked slowly and confusingly, sharing a look.
"…What do you mean?" Asuna asked.
"Well, the NerveGear covers our brain. It's able to trick it into believing things, that's how we're stuck in here, among other things," Kirito explained, he closed his eyes briefly and inhaled sharply, "We can feel pain, and we bleed whenever we're attacked. How is that?"
Asuna twists her lips together. She narrowed her eyes thoughtfully before she gasped, "The NerveGear makes our brain believes we've truly being hurt, so it appears in the game?"
"Exactly," Kirito said, nodding his head, "Our normal bodies in real life is completely fine, probably more then fine as we're in hospital confinement. However, in SAO, the NerveGear tricks our brains into believing we're being attacked, we're bleeding and the pain we feel is real enough. SAO's settings and interfaces accustom that."
Lisbeth looked down at her hands, "It feels so real when we're bleeding…"
"It is real," Agil cuts in quickly, "It's just like being hurt in the real world, the pain is exactly the same way. It's just another setting of the NerveGear. Don't get it into your head that it's fake, and not real because it is. Other people had jumped from bridges and buildings believing it's fake…"
Asuna winced, "I heard about that. It's terrifying. This helmet of ours is terrifying. It really is a Death Game after all…" she said.
"Sachi's asthma comes from the same thing," Agil added.
Kirito nodded his head firmly, "It's the NerveGear, it's making Sachi's brain believe she still has asthma and so, SAO's interfaces is adapting that. The NerveGear makes her asthma real. Have either of you had a cold? Or a stomach ache?" he asked, looking at the others in the room.
"I had a flu the other week," Lisbeth admitted.
"It's the same thing. It is just the NerveGear's senses messing with our brains," Kirito said, "It hurts if I prick myself on my sword, that doesn't mean I've really hurt myself in the real-world…the NerveGear makes it real in SAO."
Asuna sighed deeply, "That's scary. To think the NerveGear is that powerful, but it makes sense. It does enclose our brain fully. It covers our head almost completely."
As if she could feel it, Lisbeth reached up to her head. She reached her hands against her head, pressing her fingers through the pink hair. She then peered back down at Sachi with a weak whimper escaping her cherry lips.
"But still, The Living Legend vs The Dual-Wielding Demon!" Agil gapped out, "I'm sure it'll be a battle for centuries!"
Kirito snorted even loudly once more, "Why am I the demon and he the legend?" he sulked once more, burying his face into folded arms.
"Well commander is an living legend for real," Asuna smirked, "He took down the 69th boss by himself after all."
"I've taken down a boss by myself too," Kirito pouted.
Lisbeth giggled, "Didn't Asuna and Sachi-chan help?" she asked, tilting her head cutely.
Kirito peered up at her through his hair, "Mild calibrating problem," he said, with a shrug, "I defeated Gleam Eyes, didn't I? In the end?"
"With the skin of your teeth," Asuna said dryly.
Rolling his eyes, Kirito made a face at her. He then went back to sulking.
"I've seen commanders skill first hand, several times. The technique that boasts both attack and defence, Sacred Sword. His offensive power is high, but it's his defence that's particularly astounding. There isn't a soul that's seen the commander's HP drop to the yellow zone," Asuna said with pride, "That invincibility practically breaks the game's balance."
"What are you gonna do?"
Lisbeth grunted, "But Asuna, you've been wanting Sachi-chan to join the Knights of the Blood Oath, so if Kirito-san loses then she'll join," she said.
Asuna narrowed her eyes at Kirito, "What was you thinking accepting the challenge like that? Making Sachi's decision for her," she huffed, "I do want her to join my guild, she's my friend after all, but she told me she didn't want to. I'm not going to force her."
"What's worse, you'll be forced to join too," she added.
Kirito narrowed his eyes once more, "Look, I don't plan to go down without a fight. I'm going to win."
He's going to win! That will show them! Thought everyone was looking at him in disbelief.
Nobody really had no faith in him at all.
~#~#~#~#~#~
The 75th floor was massive. Corinea was similar to Rome. There was a massive, impressing looking colosseum. It was full with people, everyone screaming and cheering with excitement.
Kirito peered around the Colosseum. He wondered how many people was actually players, and how many people were AI's. He wished Sachi was out there, watching him. He knew Agil, Asuna and Lisbeth was there as he saw the three of them before he entered the colosseum.
Klein on the other hand, had punched him way to hard for being an idiot.
"My apologies, Kirito-san," Heathcliff said, "I didn't expect it to turn out like this."
Yeah right. Kirito doesn't believe that but he shrugged, "Then you wouldn't mind if I take a cut of the earnings then."
Heathcliff peered back at Kirito briefly, "No."
"Once this match is over, you will be a member of our guild and this will be considered as a mission," he said sternly.
Kirito clenched his teeth together. He sighed, and looked down at the floating dark screen that popped up in front of him, Heathcliff inviting him to a dual. He stares at the words for a good few seconds, before inhaling sharply, and accepting it.
60 seconds floated above them, counting down quickly.
Stomach tightening with anxiousness, Kirito reached for his swords. One a pitch black while the other was a glowing green crystal. He tightens his hands around the handles and arched his back, sinking into his new position for battle.
As soon as the numbers ran down to 'zero', Kirito moved. He shot across the small distinct between them, and rammed his sword into Heathcliff. The powerful commander abruptly cut him off with his shield, allowed Kirito to exhaust himself while hitting it repeatedly with both swords.
Kirito's eyes widened when the shield moved back and then forward, to slam into his face. However the dark haired swordsmen bent back, and rolled across the ground to the side. He sprung up, and swung his sword, finding the opening that appeared from him moving so quickly. Just as he was about to actually hit the man in red armour, Heathcliff twisted himself and used his shield to batter Kirito away like a fly.
He twists himself in the air, and lands on his feet. Kirito flinched and brushed the sudden attack off. He narrowed his eyes up at the commander, his heart racing suddenly when he found the man charging straight at him, his shield directed to slam into his face again.
Kirito moved fast. He flung himself back, landing on the ground and allowing the man to go straight over him. He then skidded back to his feet and tried attack Heathcliff from the back. Heathcliff, however, seemed to sense Kirito's movement and sprung around, ramming the side of the shield into Kirito's head.
Grunting deeply, Kirito rips his teeth into his bottom lip. He uses his foot to push himself back, pressing it against the shield and back flipping away. He lands safely and stands up straight, his arms arched out. Holding his swords, he watched as one begins to glow black before he shots forward.
Effortlessly, Heathcliff uses his shield to force Kirito to change directions. The black swordsmen skims across the shield and stumbled behind Heathcliff.
"Your reaction time is impressive," Heathcliff states with a smile on his lips, "You move quick, and you can read my movement. That is an impressive skill to have, quite handy in battle also. It will be a venerable asset to our guild."
Kirito narrowed his eyes, "And your defence is practically impenetrable. It's like you know where I'm going before I've even decided, however, sadly, my skill won't be used for your guild as I do not believe I will lose!" he said quickly, tightening his grip on his swords.
With that Kirito sprung forward once more. He slashed at the commander, moving faster than anybody could see. He wasn't done yet, he had to win. He had to defeat this man, and bring back that inhaler to Sachi otherwise….otherwise she'll…she'll….. He can't allow that to happen.
Every sword slash he made, Heathcliff blocked. Every movement Kirito made, Heathcliff counter blocked it and then attacked. He was relentless against him. Kirito could already feel it wearing down on his body. Just as Kirito was above to move forward, ripping his sword through the air and almost getting Heathcliff's face, he was battered.
The familiar silver shield slammed into his face. He was thrown backward, skidding across the ground until he landed on his backside. His swords fell at his sides, and he put a hand to his face. Kirito peered up in time to see his health bar drop a little.
"Don't tell me you're about to give up," Heathcliff said with a frown, "What a shame. I thought more of you Kirito-san."
"Kirito!"
~#~#~#~#~#~
Eyes opening, Sachi blinked in a haze. She stayed still on the bed for a good few minutes before sitting up, a hand moving to her forehead as she groaned.
"What…" she mumbled quietly.
Slowly, Sachi looked around and squirted her eyes. The room, it looked like Agil's room but she doesn't recall entering the store, let alone going to the second floor. When had she? So many thoughts bounced around her head, and she struggled to make sense of it.
Dark blood red eyes flashed in her mind, and Sachi felt a horrible chill run down her spine.
That was right, the boss. She was in the boss room of floor 74th. Gleam Eyes, a horrific creature that had killed many poor people. She had battled it to save another guild, to save Asuna. They had worked together, and she had used her newest, and powerful skill. The Ice Burst Fang….so had Asuna, she had used her own special skill…
Kirito…he had too. He revealed he had a dual-wielding skill….
"And then…" Sachi whispered, a hand moving to her throat, "I died?"
But how…if she had died, how did she end up here? She doesn't understand. Chewing her bottom lip, Sachi climbs off the bed and glances around. There was a few things left out that she doubted belonged to Agil. That, and the fact there was four cups left on the wooden table.
Who had been here?
"How long have I been asleep?" she wondered, looking back at the bed, "Where is everybody?"
Shaking her head, Sachi held her arm up and summed her plain looking white box. It pops up like a screen, and she quickly moved through her menu, looking for her guild list. Immediately she found Kirito's name, it was easy considering Kirito was the only guild member she had listed.
"Where are you?" she breathed out, searching up Kirito's location.
Automatically she felt her heart skip a beat. Her eyes widened in surprise, and her jaw became slack. What was Kirito doing on the 75th floor? When did the 75th floor open up? Was it dangerous? Sachi wasn't sure, but as she looked up her friend list she found everybody was on the 75th floor.
"What's going on? What's happening on the 75th floor?" Sachi mumbled, lightly scratching at her head in confusion.
Finally, Sachi took out an teleportation crystal. She held it gently, and inhaled sharply, whatever was happening on the 75th floor must be important if everyone was there…right?
With that thought, Sachi held the crystal up. As soon as she uttered the words of the 75th floor, her body began to teleport. Little glowing yellow glass like shards flickered around her body, and she found herself being teleported.
The 75th floor was not what Sachi was expecting.
She found herself in the middle of a small village directly outside a large Rome-like colosseum. She stared up it with her heard skipping a beat, it looked just like what she had seen in the text-books she had. Sachi slowly shovelled up to the large bar-gates.
"Whoa there little lady!" a man yelled, holding his hands out as she advanced closer.
Sachi blinked at him, "U-Um…I'm sorry, but what's going on here?"
The man was clearly from the Nights of the Blood Oath. He was a short man with a large stomach, his white and red armour looked like it could only protect so much.
"You don't know?" he gasped out, eyes wide with surprise.
"Um, should I?" Sachi asked, awkwardly pressing her hands together in front of herself.
The man arched his back, and placed his hands onto his hips, "I can't believe you don't know! I mean look at this!" he said, gesturing to a large banner hanging above them.
Sachi tilted her head back to look up at it. She raised an eyebrow, "The Living Legend vs The Dual-Wielding Demon?" she read out, and swallowed a thick lump, "What does that mean?"
"S-Seriously?" the man let out in a high pitched voice, his mouth becoming slack, "How can you not know that commander Heathcliff is duelling against the Black Swordsmen!"
Sachi stared for a good few minutes, "Black Swordsmen? You mean Kirito?" she gapped, "Why would Kirito duel Heathcliff-san?"
The man grinned widely, "You know The Black Swordsmen?" he chuckled, "I hear they're duelling over an rare item!"
A sigh escaped her lips. Sachi sheepishly smiled, and looked away, "Ah, that sounds more like Kirito…" she admitted, she probably would have giggled but her throat was throbbing.
Her throat was throbbing and aching. Every time she spoke, her voice shook. There was a small pressure on her chest, but she was able to ignore it the best she could.
"Yeah, they're duelling!" the man chimed excitedly, "Probably something that's only seen once!"
She had to agree with that. Heathcliff, the leader of the Nights of the Blood Oath, against Kirito. The Black Swordsmen. It's pretty enchanting. She wondered what this item was, and why Kirito wanted it so badly?
"If the Black Swordsmen wins, he gets the item," the man said.
"And if he loses?" Sachi questioned.
The man grinned even wider, and suddenly looked very prideful, "He joins the Nights of the Blood Oath!" he chimed loudly.
Sachi's eyes widened, "W-What? Why would he agree to that?" she squealed out.
"I don't know," the man shrugged, "I think it might be because of that girl. The one who died, and he then brought back with the most rarest item ever. One of a kind. Apparently this item that commander Heathcliff has is for her."
A dazed expression over came Sachi's face. Why did that sound so familiar to her? An eerie chill ran up her spine.
"P-Please, I need to get in," Sachi finally gasped out, trying to step around the man.
The man shook his head furiously, he quickly stepped in front of her, "I can't! I mean you can't! We're all sold out! There's no more places! I'm sorry but you're much too late!"
"Sold out…" Sachi mumbled, "That…please, I need to see him."
The man crossed his arms and tilted his head, "So what? You're his girlfriend or something?"
Sachi's eyes widened in surprise, "What? No. No. I'm not, but he's my friend. We're in a guild together."
"A guild? No, that's not possible. The Black Swordsmen's in a guild with the White Arrow," the other said quickly, sticking his nose up. It was only when Sachi gave him a look did his face pale, and eyes widened, "Wait…you mean you're-"
Sachi smiled. She tilted her head and smiled cutely, her shoulders hunching up. It was then that the man noticed the white bow on her back, and immediately his jaw dropped in shock.
"You're…y-you're, you mean you're THE White Arrow?" he breathed out shakily, his eyes seeming to glaze over.
"Yes, so please, I have to be allowed past. Kirito, I, it's important," Sachi said.
The pudgy man peered back at the gates. He bites his bottom lip and inhaled sharply, "Alright. Alright. I'll let you past, but, um, can I at least have your autograph?" he sheepishly asked, ducking his head in embarrassment.
A soft flush appeared across Sachi's face. He wanted her autograph? But she's nothing special…she's just…her…she felt embarrassment grow through her body. She weak, but adorable smile appeared across her lips.
"O-Of cause!" she said happily.
"Thank you so much!" the man cheered, taking out a small pink board and holding it to her, "M-My name is Kon! Kon Habson."
Nodding her head, Sachi wasn't sure what to write, so she wrote 'thank you for doing such a great job Kon-san, keep it up. Sachi-The White Arrow'. She smiled sweetly, and handed it back. The man looked starstruck. His eyes was sparkling as he looked down at the board and even hugged it.
"Thank you, thank you," he said.
Sachi sweetly bowed her head. She then quickly rushed through the door, immediately she was bombarded by cheers. There was so many people, it was very difficult to get past all the people. She had to slide through the sea of people, careful not to hit anybody as went. That didn't stop her from getting a few elbows to her sides.
She looked around herself, her heart racing. She winced, and lightly rubbed her throat. Why was her throat hurting so much? She knew she had asthma but it had never felt like that. Sachi shook her head again, this time moving along the colosseum walls, behind the crowd. She could see the faint outline of two people battling in the middle.
"Kirito," she said, biting her bottom lip.
Turning her head, she noticed another member of the Nights of the Blood Oath standing in front of a large wooden door. It was a woman with her back arched, and arms crossed behind her. Sachi swallowed, the door must lead down to where Kirito had came from…how he got to the battle floor.
"Excuse me?" she said, rushing up to the woman in red, "Excuse me!"
The woman tilted her head. She looked at Sachi from the corner of her eyes with an blank expression on her face.
"Does this door lead to one of the floor entrances?" she asked, "Kirito's one?"
The woman scuffed. She turned her attention away from Sachi without a word.
Sachi stared, and then frowned deeply. Was everyone going to be this way to her? So rude and dismissive? She shook her head, and clenched her hands, she stepped forward.
"Excuse me!" she yelled loudly, her throat burned at the sudden yell she made.
The woman sighed deeply, and glared down at her, "Listen, I don't care how much of a fan you are of the Black Swordsmen, I'm not letting you pass," she huffed in annoyance.
"A fan?" Sachi repeated, twisting her lips, "I'm not a fan! I'm Sachi! The White Arrow!"
Automatically the woman turned to her. She leant forward, having to bend down a bit to look directly into Sachi's face. The action took Sachi from surprise, and she jolted backward as the woman leant into her personal space.
"You're the White Arrow?" the woman said suspiciously, "I thought the White Arrow was out of commission at the moment?"
Sachi let out a soft whine, "I am! I woke up, and everyone's here! I don't know why, but Kirito's here too! Why is he even battling Heathcliff-san? What is this item he wants so much?" she cried out at once, "Just let me pass! Please!"
The woman stared, "You really are her, aren't you?" she said after a long moment, "Tell me, what was it like?"
Sachi paused, "What was what like?"
"Nevermind," the woman muttered and shook her head. She took a step to the side, and gestured for Sachi to go through.
"Thank you!" Sachi gasped, stumbling through the door.
The room on the other side was dark and dimly lit with candles. There was a long staircase in front of her, leading below. It looked a little old honestly, with the normal brick-patterns lining the walls. Sachi found herself racing down the steps, moving faster and faster as she went. She almost tumbled over her feet as she reached the bottom, and really ran into the wall at the bottom.
Sachi lightly rubbed her face. She stepped back, with a soft hissed. She crumbled softly, and shuddered.
"Ow," she said quietly.
Down there she could hear the familiar sounds of battle attacks, swords clashing against eachother filling the air. Battle cries followed. Sachi looked in the direction of the sounds to find a hallway leading out onto the battle field. The gate was open, revealing the dry field.
Sachi slowly moved towards the opening. She leant against the wall, and let out a shaky breath. She breathes in, trying to catch her breath from running so much at once. She flinched, and inched forward, moving towards the opening.
"Kirito…" she mumbled softly.
She could see the dark haired Swordsmen sprung forward. He was moving his sword back and forward, every time Heathcliff blocks one of his sword, Kirito would use his other sword. He slashed reliantly at Heathcliff. Moving faster than anything Sachi had ever seen before.
Why was Kirito so desperate to defeat him? Was this item that important?
Every sword slash he made, Heathcliff blocked. Heathcliff counter blocked every attack and movement Kirito made. Sachi let out a sudden gasp when Heathcliff swiftly battered Kirito with his shield, throwing him across the field. The familiar silver shield slammed into Kirito's face, it looked painful. He was thrown backward and landed on his backside. His swords fell at his sides.
Sachi's eyes widened, it looked like Kirito's heath bar had dropped a little. She waited for Kirito to get back up, but for some reason he was still sitting. It looked like Heathcliff was saying something to him. It seemed to really get underneath his skin.
"Kirito!" she yelled out, "Don't give up!"
Kirito's head snapped towards her. His black eyes widened and his lips parted, forming into a relieved gasp upon seeing her. He seemed to mouth her name, but she wasn't sure. Either way, Sachi smiled brightly in return, hopefulness filling her chest as she gazed back at him.
Determination swelled in his dark eyes, and swiftly he grabbed his twin sword. He suddenly shot forward, taking Heathcliff by surprise and cutting along his cheek. Sachi could see a sliver of blood drip down his cheek, and then she let out a shaky gasp of awe.
Kirito had hit him!
He had hit Heathcliff! The commander's health bar dropped an inch.
Immediately Kirito let out a bellow of a battle cry. Both of his swords becoming a blinding black light, and he repeatedly began to slam them into Heathcliff. It nocked the man back, and he quickly lifted his massive shield. Every twist and turn Kirito made was beginning to throw the man off.
Heathcliff was struggling to keep up all of a sudden.
Kirito arched himself, and leaped into the arm. His swords went down and then back up again, he pressed in the shield, pushing all his weight onto the attack. A erupting flash of black light erupted through the Colosseum, and then, suddenly Heathcliff was stumbling back. His shield twisted behind him, and on his face was an expression of something Sachi didn't recognize.
"He's open," Sachi gasped out. She clenched her hands tightly, her eyes widening so much that they began to burn.
Kirito moved forward. He leaped into the air, his swords arching upward. He was about to bring them down upon Heathcliff's head, not giving the powerful commander any time to react, only that was what Sachi thought was happening.
Within seconds, Heathcliff's boot rammed into Kirito. It sent the Black Swordsmen tumbling backward. It happened so fast, that Sachi didn't even see Heathcliff move. He used his sword to block the attack aiming to his head, and then kicked Kirito.
Kirito fell forward. He landed painfully on the ground, his swords falling helplessly at his sides and his health bar fell into yellow.
"He…lost…" Sachi mumbled shakily. Her eyes blinked in disbelief.
Then cheering erupted from the Colosseum. It was ear shattering, and Sachi found herself covering her ears from the sudden screaming fans. They must have been holding their breathes, just as Sachi had been.
"Kirito," Sachi gasped out, running forward.
Kirito tilted his head, a weak whimper escaping his lips, "I lost…I'm sorry…" he mumbled.
Sachi fell to her knees next to him, "Kirito! Are you alright! Your face! It's all bruised up!" she gasped out in one breath, suddenly feeling that pressure on her chest building.
"Sachi, you're awake," Kirito let out.
Sachi looked like she was about to speak more when caughs began to flitter up her throat. Her face scrunched up, and she covered her mouth. Her shoulders hunching up high.
"Ah, Sachi!" Kirito gasped, immediately moving to his knees and taking her by the shoulders. Worry began to fill his face. His eyes going to her health bar quickly.
Heathcliff stared down at them, "Kirito-san, here," he said, throwing a small object towards him.
Kirito blinked. He caught it with both hands, and peered down at it, before his eyes widened, "But I lost…" he said, turning to the man.
"Yes, you did," Heathcliff said, a smile appearing on his face, "You lost the duel, but if you recall I did not say you could not have it if you lose."
Kirito swallowed. He held the inhaler tightly, and quickly turned to Sachi, "Sachi! Sachi!" he said, "Here, breath! Come on!"
Pressing the inhaler to her lips, Kirito held her tightly. Sachi blinked, and winced, opening a single eye as the familiar sensation of air being forced into her lungs. She slowly reached up to take the inhaler from Kirito's hand, and inhaled the puff of air sharply.
"A-An inhaler?" Sachi mumbled, looking down at it in surprise, "But how?"
Kirito smiled, "The Knights of the Blood Oath had one."
Sachi licked her dry lips. She held the inhaler gently, as if it was the most precious thing to do, "So…the rare item…" she mumbled.
"Yeah," Kirito nodded, he then turned to Heathcliff, "Um, thank you."
Heathcliff nodded, "It was my pleasure, but do not forget Kirito-san. You and Sachi-san are to join the Knights of the Blood Oath now."
Sachi sprung her head up, "I-I don't understand? Why do I have to join the guild?" she asked. Not that she wouldn't. If Kirito had to join, then of cause she would follow. But she doesn't understand.
Kirito looked down and frowned deeply, "I lost the dual," he grunted.
"If I lost, you and I have to join the guild. You needed the inhaler Sachi."
~#~#~#~#~#~#~
"Aw man," Kirito groaned loudly, "I asked for a simple, plain looking outfit!"
Asuna snorted, she covered her mouth to prevent herself from laughing, "Come on. It suits you. It's just like your black coat."
Kirito crumbled. He stared at himself in the mirror, pulling at his coat with more groans escaping his lips.
"You should be lucky we had anything at all," Asuna added with a shrug.
Kirito huffed loudly. He twisted himself, and flopped back on the bed Sachi had previously been laying in. He sighed deeply and put his hand on his face.
"Oh stop being a baby," Asuna rolled her eyes, "It's not the end of the world!"
Kirito groaned, "You're a bundle of joy today, aren't you."
Asuna narrowed her eyes. She then twisted her foot, and kicked Kirito hard, "You jerk!"
"Ouch," Kirito yelped, holding his arm.
"Say, Kirito-kun," Asuna suddenly began in a soft gentle voice, "Can you tell me something? Why do you avoid guilds? And people? It's not just because you're a beta tester or possess a Unique skill, is it?"
Kirito turned his head, he sighed deeply, "I don't think I have the right to say…"
"So it involves Sachi, huh…you're in a guild together, after all…" Asuna mumbled, her voice suddenly low.
"It was a long time ago, over a year ago…we was just a small group of six. Nothing like the Nights of the Blood Oath. We were called the Black Cats of the Full Moon," Kirito said in quiet, shaky voice, "The truth is…their levels, they were far below mine and Sachi's…Sachi wasn't as high as me, but she was much higher than them…"
"Sachi and I…we had the same thought. We thought if they knew our real level, they would have kicked us out of the guild," Kirito explained, looking down at his lap before he let out a dry laugh, "I didn't even know Sachi was a high level, I thought she was a low level like the others…to say I was surprised when…"
Kirito lowered himself further, "I'm responsible for their deaths…if I had said something…"
"I almost got Sachi killed too."
Asuna was quiet. She slowly got up and stepped towards Kirito, gently taking his face and forcing him to look at her. Her lips settled into a line, "It's not your fault. Kirito-kun. Everything will be alright," she said, gently pulling him into a hug, "I won't die, after all, I'll be the one to protect you."
Kirito stiffened up, "….Thanks but I don't need your protection."
Asuna's face heated up. She pulled away with her eyes narrowing into a glare, "You jerk!" she yelled.
Wincing, Kirito shifted away. He rubbed his face, and grumbled to him, "You're too loud."
Shooting up, Asuna got to her feet quickly. Her face was still hot, and she clenched her teeth together. Her fists shook at her sides, and puffed out her cheeks. She stomped her foot in annoyance, "Y-You jerk! And to think I-" she began.
Asuna held her hand up and looking like she was about to smack the confused boy when the door open. It moved slowly, and unsure.
"Um, is everyone alright?" Sachi asked from the bathroom.
If it was possible, Asuna's face turned even hotter. She backed away, and pouted, crossing her arms, "I was beginning to wonder where you got too! Did you fall in?" she teased, turning to the door.
Sachi whimpered, "Isn't there anything else I can have?"
"Not you too," Asuna groaned, "I worked hard to get those outfits! You guys could be a little grateful!"
Sachi squealed, "I-I'm sorry Asuna! It's just…the skirt's a bit short…"
"That's why you have stockings!" Asuna snapped.
Sachi sighed. She nervously played with the top long white and red skirt coat she had on. Finally after a moment of thought, she stepped through the bathroom door revealing herself. Like Kirito, who was wearing a Nights of Blood Oath version of his normal black jacket, Sachi had an outfit similar to her white armour suit that Mio had created. It was red and white, with ribbons tied around her arms. The red pencil skirt was a little shorter then her blue one, and unlike her 'White Arrow' suit where she had white tights, she had high thigh stockings. She had the red cross on her hip, thighs and on her boots.
"I-I mean, I don't look stupid…do I?" she meekly asked.
Asuna smiled brightly and shook her head, "No way! You look awesome! We match!" she said, rushing up to Sachi's side, "Right Ki…rito?"
The orange haired girl looked at Kirito. Her face became blank as she stared at the swordsmen, and clocked her head. Slowly she waved her hand in front of his face, "Kirito? Hey…Kirito? Say something?"
"It's that bad!" Sachi gasped, looking down at herself, "I knew red doesn't suit me!"
"Don't be like that Sachi!" Asuna gasped, spinning her head around.
Kirito slowly blinked. He shook his head, and got to his feet. He sheepishly walked up to the girls while rubbing the back of his head, "Sorry Sachi. I meant, you look….great….just really great…"
"Oh…" Sachi mumbled softly, and then smiled.
Asuna tilted her head. She put a hand onto her hip and frowned, "Yeah, just great…"
"Come on. We have a meeting with Godfree!" Asuna sighed, turning around and marching through the door.
Sachi nervously shifted on her feet, "You really don't think I look silly?"
Wrapping an arm around her shoulders, Kirito shook his head, "No. You look really good. I, on the other hand, look ridiculous!" he grumbled, "White isn't my colour."
"You look fine," Sachi giggled.
Kirito groaned, "I just don't understand why we have to wear Nights of the Blood Oath's armour!"
Sachi shrugged, "Maybe we can request to wear our normal suits later?"
"Yeah…I'll probably do that," Kirito nodded, leading Sachi out the room.
Asuna was waiting in the hallway. She was leaning against the wall with her arms crossed. She gazes at them as they left the room, and closed her eyes. She pushes herself from the wall, and turned around. She beckoned them to follow her into another room.
"Good afternoon Godfree," Asuna nodded.
Godfree was a tall man with tight curls of red. He had an large axe strapped to his back, "Good afternoon, Asuna-san," he said, bowing his head before looking at Sachi and Kirito, "Ah, you must be Kirito-san and Sachi-san. Perfect. I was hoping we could start our training soon enough."
"Training?" Kirito asked, tilting his head.
"You'll be joining me in forming a party of four in order to clear the dungeon on this floor," Godfree explained.
Asuna gasped, "Wait, Godfree. Kirito-kun is with me-"
Godfree snorted. He shook his head, "Even if you're the vice commander, it's be problematic for you to ignore regulations. Besides, Kirito-san and Sachi-san are new members, so as forward commander, I need to see the extent of they're abilities."
"S-Someone of your level would be a pushover for-" Asuna began, speaking quickly.
Kirito covered her mouth with a groan, "We'll be more then happy to join you Godfree."
"Yes, Godfree-san," Sachi added softly, blinking at her long haired friend in confusion and concern. What was wrong with Asuna?
A smirk appearing on his lips, Godfree bowed his head in return, "Well then, in half an hour, we'll assemble at the town's west gate!" he said, throwing his arm up and turning around, leaving the room.
Sachi hummed softly to herself, "Training, huh…"
"You'll be alright," Kirito smiled at her, walking towards her and taking her hand gently, "I'll be with you. So if anything does happen, I'll be there to help you."
Sachi smiled in return, "You're always saying that, you know…"
"Because I mean it!" Kirito chuckled. He placed a hand onto her head, and runs his fingers through her short hair.
"Someday, I'll be the one to protect you, Kirito," Sachi sighed, eyes closed.
Kirito hummed. His eyes softened, "But Sachi, you already have. More then once."
Sachi smiled sweetly. She let out a soft giggle, and lifted her head when she noticed Asuna staring at them. She blinked, and tilted her head, "Are you alright Asuna?"
"Huh?" Asuna yelped, standing up straight, "What? Oh! Yeah, I'm fine!"
Kirito turned towards Asuna and waved, "We'll be back before you know it."
"….Yeah, take care…" Asuna said distinctly.
~#~#~#~#~#~#~
"Hey, over here!"
Sachi walked next to Kirito. She looked around the base of the Nights of the Blood Oath thoughtfully. It was so different to what she thought. The base was a massive royal looking castle. She couldn't help but gaze at it in awe. It was only when she heard Godfree's voice, did she turn her head.
She stopped. Her heart skipped a beat, and her stomach tightened.
"What's the meaning of this?" Kirito asked, stepping in front of Sachi protectively.
Godfree looked between the three of them, "Oh? You know eachother, that's good. It'll make things so much easier."
"He stalked Sachi, we're not going anywhere with him," Kirito said.
"Come now, we're all comrades here, and I'm sure Kuradeel, here, is very sorry for whatever he did," Godfree said, suddenly patting his hand on the man's head, "Right?"
Kuradeel awkwardly looked away, "Um, yes. I apolgoize for…for the trouble I caused in the past."
"Just because you apol-" Kirito began.
Sachi walked past him. She bravely stepped in front Kuradeel and breathed in deeply, "I guess…now that we're in the same guild, I have no other choice but to try and get along, there for, I accept your apology," she said, a small smile appearing her lips, "I forgive you Kuradeel-san, but if you ever do it again, I won't hesitate to draw my sword."
"Y-Yes! Of cause Sachi-san!" Kuradeel said quickly, stiffing up.
Sachi chuckled and bowed her head, "Well then, let's get moving. Yes, Godfree-san?"
"Yes!" Godfree nodded, "Now then, today I'd like to see how you handle yourselves in the face of a crisis, so I'll be holding onto all of your crystals."
Kirito turned away from Kuradeel, "Even our teleport crystals?"
"Yep," Godfree said, hands on his hip.
"I-I'm keeping this potion," Sachi said bravely, holding the potion up.
"…Alright," Godfree agreed after a moment.
Sachi nervously shovelled her feet. She watched as Kuradeel handed Godfree his crystals, before taking out her own. She slowly stepped up to him, and shakily handed hers. She wasn't sure why she was frightened by the idea, not when she did have Kirito had at her side…but she was.
Winking, Godfree turned to Kirito. He bounced his hand, making the crystals in them move around.
"Kirito?" Sachi asked, looking at him with a clock of the head.
Kirito breathed in deeply, "Right…" he said, handing over his own crystals.
"Great!" Godfree said, throwing his arm up, "Now! Off we go, men!"
Sachi frowned. She tilted her head.
"And women!" Godfree quickly added.
Slowly everyone lifted their own arms, "Yeah…" they mumbled.
Sachi only giggled to herself. She shook her head, and as everyone began to walk forward, she trailed to the back. She took out the inhaler from her storage and took a puff. Automatically a small pressure on her chest lifted. She sighed in relief. Having the inhaler was truly helping her cope.
"Are you alright?" Kirito whispered, looking back at her with a soft look.
"Yes, I'm fine," Sachi mumbled quietly, "Thank you…for getting me this…"
"It's no problem, at all," Kirito said, "I'd do anything for you, you needed it after all."
Kirito smiled sweetly. He once again placed his hand onto her head, and pets her before taking her hand. He gently pulled her along so they didn't get left behind by the other two men. Unaware of the glare they was receiving from one of them.
They reached just before dungeon. Sachi doesn't really remember 55th floor much. Only being there a couple of times, but she hadn't been in the dungeon before. She doesn't remember being at the bottom of cliffs either. She couldn't help but feel unnerved.
"Okay, we'll take a break here," Godfree said, "I'll hand out rations now."
Sachi panted softly. She moved to sit on a small rock, and pushed her hair out of her face. She looked around the cliffs again, noticing the sun was hitting it just right that the shadows was beginning to dance across the floor. She only turned back when she heard a deep sigh, she blinked over at Kirito and noticed how depressed he looked.
"Are you alright?" she asked.
Kirito looked back at her and pointed down at the bag he had, "I'm just missing the Oyakodon," he admitted with a weak frown.
"O-Oh," Sachi giggled, "I'm sorry Kirito. I haven't had time to cook recently."
She had been sleeping for, what? She still didn't know. Everything had happened so fast. From the dual, to the Nights of the Blood Oath…she still didn't get any answers to what had happened. She had to remember asking Kirito later.
"It's better then nothing, I guess," Kirito mumbled with sadness, taking out the bottle and drinking it.
Sachi looked up when a shadow was casted over her. She blinked up at Godfree, who handed her bag. She bowed her head in thanks, and peered inside. She could understand why Kirito was so sad. It was just a bottle with a stale bread bun.
Her lips twisted with distaste. She was definitely going to cook later today. Shrugging, she took the bottle out, and took a small sip from it. It tasted strangely sweet. Suddenly, Kirito throw his bottle. Sachi immediately snapped her head up, blinking as the bottle dissolved. She gasped, as her vision started to become a soft pink colour.
"W-What?" she mumbled, seeing Godfree fall to the ground with a soft thud.
Kirito let out a growl ,"W-What did you do to us!"
Kuradeel let out a laugh, "It's just a little Paralytic poison!" he said, his laugh becoming more crazed. His body trembled as he barked out his laughter.
"W-What's the meaning of this?" Godfree growled, forcing himself to look up, "You didn't…you provided the water…"
Sachi winced as her body fell against the rock next to her. She was numb, and she couldn't move. It was like there was a blanket of iron thrown over her body.
Kirito forced himself to look over at Godfree, "Hurry, the antibiotic crystals," he said.
Eyes blown wide, and a large grin appearing on his face, Kuradeel let out shrill of excitement. He leaped through the air, and landed next to Godfree. He slammed his foot onto his hand, and kicked the crystal away.
"Now, now, Godfree-san, I knew you were pretty dim-witted, but it looks like you're a total meathead!" Kuradeel snickered with a sharp-looking grin. He then began to pull out his sword.
"W-What are you doing?" Godfree gasped out.
Kuradeel grinned even wider. He swung his sword, bringing it down upon the poor man. Godfree let out a scream that nobody should have had to hear before. As he did so, the light above Kuradeel turned a sickly orange colour.
"S-Stop it!" Godfree gasped out.
"Listen to me, our party was in a field when it was assaulted by a large group of criminal players! Two of us fell, fighting bravely in vain!" Kuradeel said, slamming his sword over and over upon Godfree, "Although I was the last one standing, I succeeded in repelling the criminals, making them retreat!"
He brought his sword back up, and with a loud shuddering, cry of excitement, the sword was brought down again. Kuradeel leant on the sword, forcing the sharp end into Godfree's body.
Sachi's heart skipped a beat. She stared with pure fear. She could see Godfree's face, how terrified he looked. She wanted to get up and save him, to do anything! But her body wouldn't move. Just as she looked back at the face of the man, his body shattered in glowing orbs and shards.
"N-No…" Sachi whimpered.
Orbs of green fluttered around them.
Kuradeel turned around to face them, "And our last member?" he purred out, looking at Sachi with a sharp looking smile, "Don't worry you won't die right away Dearest Sachi! Not right away, but perhaps after sometime! Unfortunately she was taken before I could prevent them from kidnapping her."
"She'll die before they could locate her location," he added sharply.
Kuradeel sighed deeply, "It's because of brats like you, I ended up having to kill an innocent person. If you didn't get in my way earlier with Dearest Sachi, this wouldn't have happened. I could have taken her without anybody noticing. She wasn't in an guild, so nobody would have noticed. Now that she's apart of the Nights of Blood Oath, we'll have to kill her much earlier than we hoped."
"We?" Kirito growled.
The man giggled. He held his arm up, and removed his glove, revealing a mark on his skin, "Do you have a good eye?"
"…T-That's the PK guild, Laughing Coffin!" Kirito gasped, "What…How?"
"I picked up how to make the paralysis poison there. Ah, I'm getting side-tracked again," Kuradeel said with a shake of the head, "If I don't end the chatter here, the poison will wear off. How about we go straight to the end?"
Kuradeel walked up to Kirito. He held his sword up high, "Now then! Dearest Sachi, watch closely! This is what happens when you choose somebody so pathetic and weak!" he said.
He brought his sword right down. It went through Kirito's hand, and send blood everywhere. Kirito let out a scream of pure pain. His eyes widened, and his mouth opened wide. His health bar starting to drain with every movement of sword Kuradeel made.
"How's this? What's it like being on the brink of death?" Kuradeel asked, bringing the sword through Kirito's thigh. Blood gushing out from the new wound, "Come on, feel free to share!"
"Hey? Say something! What happened to that screaming? You're really gonna die!"
Sachi let out a sob. Her body trembled, and she let out cry when Kuradeel pulled his sword and free and then brought it down through Kirito's stomach. Her heart was beginning to race, it was making her head feel heavy and dizzy. Her eyes was beginning to become glassy with tears.
How many times had Kirito came to save her? How many times has he put her life before his? How many times have she stood on the side lines and let him to do everything?
She wants to save him! Save him! Like he saved her so many times before!
"Oh? What's thing?" Kuradeel snickered.
Kirito shakily grabbed the sword, his hand becoming coated in pure blood, "I-I can't die yet! I can't!"
Kuradeel laughed. He shrieked out with laughter, and covered his face, his body shaking, "That's how it's gotta be?"
Kirito's heath bar was sinking quickly. Going into the red zone fast. His hand slowly slaking, as he was loosing all the strength he had in it.
Sachi stared. Her eyes shook and widened. Something horrible twisted in the pit of her stomach. Her fingers trembled, as she slowly arched her body. It hurt. Her body felt like it was suddenly coated in chains, holding her to the rock she was slumped against but she had to move.
Shakily, trembling she moved. Somehow, she wasn't sure how, but she was able to free her bow. It fell to the stone next to her, and she inhaled sharply. Her eyes narrowed down at the bow, and forced her hands to get it. Why, why was it so hard! She hated this poison.
Kirito was going to die! And she couldn't do anything to stop it!
No! No! No!
She forced her bow up. Her arms trembled as she held it. It took her whole strength, will power, to take an arrow out and aim it. Her hands shook, slowly moving back and forth. She aimed and then released it.
The arrow shot through the small distant. It rocketed towards Kuradeel, imprinting into the back of Kuradeel's head. The attack surprised the man, that he stumbled forward and fell over the stone, landing on his back.
Sachi let out a shaky breath. She blinked slowly, and tilted her head. Suddenly noticing the emerald crystal at her feet, the one Godfree was trying to use to undo the poison. Her heart leaped into her head, and with all her strength she throw herself forward. She fell forward with a loud thud, falling to the ground limply.
The crystal was right next to her face. Sachi puffed out her cheeks, and forced herself forward, her lips touching the cool surface.
"A-Antibiotic poison!" she said, her voice muffled from the crystal.
The green crystal glowed and shattered. It sunk into her body, and suddenly she could move. Sachi let out a soft breath of relief, and rolled over in time to see Kuradeel climbing back onto the stone. He was rubbing his head with a twisted frown.
Sachi clenched her teeth. She grabbed her bow, her body moving so much easier now. So much lighter. She held her bow up, and inserted an arrow.
"Ice burst Fang!" she cried.
The arrow shot straight towards him. It glowed a glowing bright colour, and split into 50 arrows. Raining down upon Kuradeel, with ice arrows. It sent the man tumbling back down, and slamming into the cliff behind him.
Sachi let out a shaky breath, and ran over to Kirito. She fell to her knees at his side, "Kirito! Hang on!" she cried, taking out a healing potion from her storage.
"Heal!" she cried, holding it above Kirito. Tears began to stream down her face, as Kirito's health bar returned to 100%
Kirito blinked up at her. A sweet smile appearing across his lips.
"You're alive!" Sachi gasped out, grabbing his face and holding it still, "You're alive, aren't you! Kirito?"
Kirito hummed. He closed his eyes, "Yeah, I am," he said.
Sachi sniffled. She rubbed her face and pulled back, "I thought…I thought you was really going to die!" she sobbed, hiccupping loudly.
"Hey, breath," Kirito said softly, "Don't forget to breath."
A soft wet laugh escaped her lips. Sachi nodded, "Y-yeah," she mumbled, moving to take out of her inhaler.
"You!" Kuradeel grumbled, forcing himself up with his sword.
Sachi turned her head. She blinked her teary eyes over at him and frowned, they narrowed into a glare. She wiped her eyes and got to her feet, her hand moving down to her Wakizashi.
"I-I'll deal with this," she said bravely, picking up her bow from the ground as she went, "Wait here. I-I'll finish this quickly."
"Sachi," Kirito called after her.
Sachi paused, "This time, I'll protect you."
Kuradeel took a step back as Sachi walked straight towards him, "Now, Dearest Sachi!" he began, holding his sword out to strike her, "You not strong enough to fight me!"
Sachi let out a growl. She ducked as he swung his sword, and used the sharp end of her bow to knock him back. Reading up another arrow, she aimed it at his face and released it. The arrow shot forward, and split into 25 different arrows. They danced through the air, hitting Kuradeel in all different places. As she was close enough, used her long bow and swung it harshly along his legs. It sent him crumbling to the ground, blood spurting from his new wounds.
"O-Okay! I understand!" he let out, falling to his knees, "I'll leave the guild! I'll even turn myself in to Heathcliff! Please don't kill me!"
Sachi inhaled sharply. She arched her back, and pressed her lips tightly together. She swallowed thickly, while staring down at the bloody mess of a man that had a terrified her so much at one point in her life. She felt so stupid, he looked pathetic right now. Bowing to her like that.
"I'll never appear before you ever again! So please! I don't want to die!"
Stopping the end of her bow from going straight through Kuradeel's head. Sachi breathed sharply once more, she pulled her bow back and stepped back.
"Alright," she said, nodding her head, "We'll go back to the Nights of the Blood Oath, you will hand yourself over to Heathcliff-san!"
"Yes! Of cause!" Kuradeel cowered, "Don't kill me!"
Sachi took a step back, and stood with her body arched, "Fine."
Abruptly Kuradeel moved forward. He sprung up, and swung his long sword, knocking her precious bow. It flow away from them and bounced against a large stone to the side. Kuradeel then twisted him, slashing along Sachi's stomach and sending blood everywhere. He then looped his arm around Sachi's middle and effortlessly hosted her onto his shoulder.
"You're too naïve Sachi!" he cackled, "It seems I'm gonna have to take you to the Laughing Coffin base now, rather than later!"
Sachi shuddered. Pain ran through her body, her eyes was wide and her mouth was gasping. Her body had stiffened from the pain, blood rushing to her head from the way she was forced onto Kuradeel's shoulder. Her legs hanged down his front, and she stared shakily ahead of herself. Her heath bar was draining from the wound on her stomach, she could feel him stabbing at the back of her legs too. The blood running down her ankles.
Crushing her teeth together, Sachi shook her head. She wasn't going to allow this happen. She wasn't going to go out like this after everything.
Grabbing her Wakizashi, she yanked it free. Pulling it out, she sliced the short sword straight through the middle of Kuradeel's back. Blood burst from the wound, making the man scream and arch forward. She then pulled her sword out, and slammed it down upon the back of Kuradeel's neck. This was enough for him to shove her off him.
Sachi cried out as she hit the ground. She pulled her bloody legs up, and glared up at him.
"You! You! Wrench!" Kuradeel shrieked, "I was hoping to keep you around a little, to play with you but now! Now I've changed my mind!"
He brought his sword up, blood running down his body. He held it above his neck, and was about to bring it down upon Sachi when a black blur rocketed forward. A long sword ripped through the middle of his chest, making him scream and hunched forward.
"You…ha…you damn murder…" Kuradeel spat weakly. His health bar was dropping, and finally reached zero. His sword shattering against the floor.
Sachi hiccupped. She watched as Kuradeel disappeared in shards. Kirito…he had killed him. She whimpered, and covered her face, suddenly the pressure on her chest becoming to great. She clenched her eyes shut tightly, her body shaking. Everything was so overwhelming.
She couldn't breathe. There that rope again.
"Sachi, hey," Kirito's gentle voice filled her ears. A gently hand touching her face, "Breath. Use the inhaler."
Sachi nodded her head. She shakily took out her inhaler and inhaled it sharply. Her cheek puffing out a little, but more tears beginning to roll down her cheeks. She moved forward, and clung to him.
"I was so scared," she hiccupped, "I thought you was going to die! I thought Kuradeel was going to kill you!"
Kirito shook his head, he held her tightly. He wrapped his arms around her tightly, running his fingers through her short hair, "Shh. It's alright. I'm here with you. I will be until the end…" he mumbled sweetly.
Hiccupping, Sachi looked up at him. She peered up from wet eyes, her head still laying against his chest.
"Sachi," Kirito said softly, "My life is yours. So I'll live for your sake. Until the very end, let's be together!"
Sachi smiled. She let out a weak laugh, "Yes. My life is yours too. I'll protect you no matter what. I want us to be together too," she said.
"From now until all of eternity, so regardless of what may come, I will send you home Sachi. I promise," Kirito said seriously, before closing his eyes too, " Today…tonight, I want to be with you…"
Sachi hummed softly, "Kirito…"
"No," Kirito said, shaking his head, "My real name is Kazuto. I'm Kirigaya Kazuto."
Sachi swallowed. She tilted herself backward, "K-Kazuto?" she mumbled, and then nodded, "Alright Kazuto."
Kirito nodded with his own smile appearing on his face.
"My name…" Sachi began with a laugh, "Is Sachi! It must be pretty lame that I used my real name!"
The dark haired swordsmen shook his head, "No it isn't. Kirito is from my name, the beginning of my name and the ending of my second name…" he explained.
Sachi hummed. She slowly got to her feet, her legs buckling underneath herself. She winced, but thankfully Kirito caught her before she feel. Sachi sighed, and looked down at them. The wounds wasn't too bad now, but she needed a healing potion or crystal quickly.
"Let's head back now."
~#~#~#~#~#~#~#~
Sachi sighed in relief. She pulled at her white armour suit, she was much comfortable in it then the red one. A soft laugh escaped her lips as she walked through the busy streets towards Agil's store. She had been staying there recently, players still tried to follow her for some reason.
"I'm so sorry that I wasn't there," Asuna frowned.
Sachi shook her head, "No. It's alright. Kaz-um, Kirito and I dealt with it," she smiled.
Asuna nodded her head. She kept her attention ahead of herself, walking forward while pressing her hands together. It was worrying as Asuna had been very quiet recently. No matter what Sachi did, it seemed she was always in the same mood.
"Asuna?" Sachi finally said.
The orange haired beauty stopped. She tilted her head back to look at Sachi with a cute tilt of the head, "Hmm? What's wrong Sachi?"
Sachi puffed out her cheeks, "Is…Is something wrong? You've been…quiet for sometime now…" she said worriedly, lightly bumping her fists together, "D-Did I do something to upset you?"
Asuna's eyes widened, "What? No!" she gasped, walking towards Sachi, "You didn't."
"Oh…" Sachi mumbled.
"Sachi…" Asuna begun. She looked down with sad eyes, before bravely smiling, "I think I'm in love with Kirito-kun."
Sachi's eyes widened, she gasped softly before nodding in understanding, "O-Oh? That's great Asuna, you should tell him?"
Asuna let out a low chuckle, she shook her head. Her long orange hair bounced around her, "No…No I don't think I will…"
A small frown appearing on her lips, Sachi tilted her head, "Why not?"
Asuna gazed at Sachi softly. She hummed, and gently pets Sachi on the head. She rolls her fingers through Sachi's short hair, "You're so sweet….such an good girl…I'm glad it was you…"
Sachi titled her head in confusion. She felt like she was missing something. Something important here.
"Because Kirito-kun's in love with somebody else," Asuna explained, turning around. Her long hair dancing around behind her, she twisted her hands behind herself.
Sachi stared thoughtfully. Kirito was in love with somebody else? But who? Kirito hadn't ever said anything to her about it. She honestly couldn't see Kirito being in love with anybody. She knew Lisbeth had feeling for him and had confessed, but was rejected. Maybe Kirito changed his mind.
"By the way…what did Kirito-kun tell you after what happened?" Asuna asked, turning her head a little.
Snapping out of her thought, Sachi blinked, "Oh. Um. He said, 'My life is yours. So I'll live for your sake. Until the very end, let's be together! From now until all of eternity, so regardless of what may come, I will send you home Sachi. I promise'…" Sachi repeated, "He also…wanted to spend the day with me."
Asuna sighed, "I see."
"I don't understand," Sachi frowned, "Kirito's always said those things to me before."
"Exactly like that?" Asuna asked.
Sachi hummed thoughtfully. She shrugged innocently, "Asuna. You're confusing me," she whined.
Letting out a soft laugh, Asuna looked at her. The most sweetest, kindest and beautiful smile was on her face. Her eyes glowed with warmth that made Sachi shiver.
"Oh Sachi, you're the most beautiful person I've ever met. Someday you'll understand."
A/N: Ahhhhh! No. Kirito and Sachi aren't together :(
Was that Kirito confessing? hmmm? I dunno, that's up to you if it was or not! Haha!
Sachi's such a sweet, beautiful girl! I love writing her!
ASUNAAAAAAAA! Wha! Asuna knows what it might be ;) I loved writing Asuna in this. How she realizes her own feelings and understands Kirito's... Sachi on the other hand, doesn't. But don't worry, she will in time! In time! I'm trying not to rush them falling in love
Thank you to all the people who gave me advise on Sachi's race in ALO! I've come to an decision! I hope you all love it when I get there! I think it'll be adorable!
See you soon! Will be updating again real soon! Byeeee!
