Sword Art Online Rise of the Integral Factor

by Partns

The story is based on the game SAO integral factor in where you roleplay as a player trapped in the death game along 10,000 other players, the story goes with fanmade plot points, some changes were made as well as dialogues, the story is based on (You) the main protagonist and your partner Koharu Honda, will you be able tu survive along with her and your friends and return home?

34. Chapter 34

Chapter – 34

Prince of Hell – SAO Integral Factor

Authors note: First I would like to apologize on taking so long to upload this chapter but my computer crashed just when I finished writing the chapter and all of my progress was lost and I had to start all over. Be that as it may, the chapter is now out and I would like to start his chapter with giving the next shoutouts: thanks to Emily, Yoshi, Gabriel Cruz, Alejandra, Daniela, Elizabeth, Jose, Jordy the cat, Thomas, lightemerald, DulBahena and Reaper. Thank you all once again for sharing me your ideas and comments on my fanfic and of course in life. I hope you all enjoy the story and if you wish to add any ideas of your own, let me know in a review or in a private message, if you are one of my real life friends then you know where to find me ;) Thank you so much for your support and enjoy the chapter.

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Another day, another floor beaten. The Assault was making great progress on clearing the floors, and that's a surprise since floor boss quests are no longer being distributed to players on the floors anymore, with a scout party, the members would take a quick peek in the boss rooms to see just what kind of boss we were dealing with and if it was also possible, they would study its attack patterns and them deliver them to the guild leaders to come up with a strategy. This time however, we have a clue on the boss.

You: So… this is floor 61, huh?

Koharu: I bet the view of the sunset would look great through this pillars.

You: Hey… do you ever stop to wonder, what exactly Kayaba's intentions were?

Koharu: Hmm? What made you ask that?

You: Well… I was just thinking… did Kayaba do all this to prove a point? His work is amazing, real life virtual reality. This game was supposed to bring happiness and fun… but it instead brought fear and conflicts… and yet, it has so many beautiful things to see and discover… when you think about it, it's like we are building a new life in a new world… but is that what Kayaba wanted?

Koharu: Hmm… I never thought about it… but I do wonder why he would do this.

You: I can't say I like Kayaba… but I can't say I hate him either… if anything, I want to meet him and talk to him personally.

Koharu: I am not sure if he would even let that.

You: Yeah, you're probably right. There is no point on discussing about things we have no knowledge of, how about we just go and look for this boss quest NPC?

Koharu: yeah, Argo said that she was located somewhere within the beach.

You: Let's go see.

Meanwhile, in a nearby location

Twilight: I can't believe it… I-I found you… *she takes small baby steps*

PoH: No *he says as he stops her* it's too early, remember our plan.

Twilight: I-I know, it's just… I found him… after all these months of searching… I found him… and that girl… is she Koharu?

PoH: that's her.

Twilight: Hrr… remember our deal, I will be the one to make her bleed.

PoH: I remember, I remember, just remember our side of the deal as well.

Twilight: already on it… (Koharu… I finally found you… it's time to take back what's mine)

Meanwhile at the beach

Koharu: Look at the sea…

You: there are even boat rides that you can take to get to the other island.

Koharu: Everything is just so beautiful… *she stares at the distance*

You: Hmm… hey um… Koharu…

Koharu: what is it?

You: Well… I've been thinking and… since, you know, sine we are a couple… I was wondering about our future…

Koharu: our future?

You: Y-yeah… like… what would you like to do when we get back to the real world?

Koharu: Mm… you know, personally, I always saw myself with being a professional athlete. It didn't matter what sport it was, I just want to live free and move around a lot with my body. I did take gymnastics as you might remember.

You: Yeah… I can already imagine you as a professional ice skater actually.

Koharu: ice skater? What made you think that?

You: oh, just a thought. But I was thinking more of like… what to do with the rest of your life. I mean, when we meet in the real world… what do you think it would be like?

Koharu: I… honestly don't know… ever since this death game began, it has been my dream to come and see you *she covers her mouth and blushes*

You: Ehehe, no need to feel embarrassed… it's my wish too.

Koharu: I-it is?

You: Of course… seeing the girl I love in real life… that's something I want to see.

Koharu: Y-You-you don't haft to say it like that! *she says with her face all red*

You: Why? It's just how I feel, I mean… don't you?

Koharu: W-well, I… of course I love you. I have ever since the day you rescued… since the day you picked me up and told me to be your partner… since the day we first fought side by side… I always have…

You: T-that's… nice to hear…

Koharu: And, um… maybe… if you're asking for a normal life… maybe we could get… M-marr... Marrie—

?: AAAH!

You: Huh? That scream sounded really close by.

Koharu: they might need help, we should go see what's going on.

You: right!

With both of us rushing through the fields, we find an opening from the beach as we see a large herd of monsters surrounding a woman in white cloth. Her cursor was yellow, which meant that she was an NPC.

NPC girl: S-stay back! I beg of you!

Scorching wasps: BZZZRR!

NPC girl: *she closes her eyes*

Scorching wasps: BZZZR— *three wasp burst into polygons*

NPC girl: H-huh?

You: Switch out!

Koharu: HEAAA! *she slashes through six wasps*

With Koharu dashing at high speeds, the wasps are cut into multiple pieces as the parts of their bodies fall apart and disappear into blue trickling hexagons.

You: Activate Lethia orb! Area shape!

Just then, the black orb from the 40th floor begins to shine bright black as the area begins to lose light beside it being sunny, as a result, the mobs get sucked into a vortex that was summoned from the orb and the mobs disappear inside it.

"Swooosh"

The vortex disappears as soon as the mobs are swallowed up and the NPC is safe.

NPC girl: are they all gone?

You: Seems like it.

NPC girl: I can't thank you both enough for saving my life, please tell me, what are your names?

You: My name is (You)

Koharu: My name is Koharu.

NPC girl: (You) and Koharu, I'll be sure to remember. Oh, where are my matters? My name is Celine, pleasure to make your acquaintance *a quest icon appears on her head*

You: Bingo.

Koharu: the boss quest is activated, should we take it?

You: Asuna trusted us with this, we are the ones who scouted out the boss quest up until now. You and I both know that these quest are more dangerous than any other quest, up until now, we both managed to complete every boss quest… I think it would be for the best if we complete this one and gather any kind of information regarding the boss.

Koharu: I understand… and if I am being honest… I want to do this, because it reminds me of our old adventures… this could be a perfect moment to relieve those moments.

Celine: Excuse me?

Koharu: O-oh, it's nothing, we were just talking with ourselves.

Celine: I see… well, in any case, I know this might sound quite sudden but will you two be willing to come back to our clan's base? You two have shown a strength I have never seen anyone wield up until now, I think you two might be the hope we need.

You: (This could be the start to begin gathering information about the boss) Sure thing, lead the way Celine.

Celine: Excellent, please follow me.

After that, Celine led us deep into the woods on the 61st floor until we finally reached a campsite where...there were hardly any people.

You: this is your campsite? Doesn't it get a little lonely?

Celine: our temperance and prudence is practiced so that our clan will never again allow the wicked serpent into the world.

Koharu: Wicked serpent? By any chance, is that the floo-ahem, the fiend in the celestial tower?

Celine: Indeed, that serpent was once human in fact. The chief of our clan as a matter of fact. Long before the great separation, this was a bountiful land full of warmth and beauty. Its people lived well with natures gifts. All of this was further aided by its peerless leaders. One such ruler was taught from such a young age how to rule others, and perhaps it is because of this that she was so highly spoken of.

Koharu: then why did she became a monster?

Celine: any reign that is too stable gives rise to stresses too. One day, she came to realize that she has grown quite old… she keenly felt that she has sacrificed all the joy in her life in order to rule instead… and this birthed anger in her heart.

You: (Curious… why does that seem… familiar?)

Celine: she came to believe that the people took peace for granted, ignorant of the endless labor she performed in order to maintain it. The powerful jealousy that she felt for her people who enjoyed their lives racked her mind, causing her to spiral downward. Using her authority, se gathered magical tomes and tools as she grew obsessed with researching what were known as forbidden arts. She gained her former youth, along with eternal life, but for a short period. It a came at a cost of her body transforming into a grotesque serpent.

You: (Okay… this story sounds an awful lot of what happened to administrator…)

Celine: the people were so pained by what happened that they decided that this burden was not to be carried by a single ruler, but shared by all.

Koharu: I see… but then why seal her away? Hadn't the people here turned over a new leaf?

Celine: Indeed, but… the serpents envy did not subside. In fact, it only fanned the flames of her jealousy, leading to the present situation.

You: Okay then, but then why would she feel jealous? She has eternal life now, right? There is no reason for her to be jealous.

Celine: indeed. She has eternal life and youth now, nothing can sickened nor kill her, however, this was the fuel of her jealousy. She envied how the lives with limited time burned so bright. After she harmed her people, she was sealed and locked away in the celestial tower.

You: okay, I have a question… does she has pawns?

Celine: She does. She has a special ability to trick and brainwash their minds with only believing her words. As such, these people are known as serpent followers, people who follow and worship her words with simply hearing her. There is no telling where they may lie.

Just then, someone runs up to the campsite.

Celine's attendant: Lady Celine! We're being under attack by the serpent followers!

Celine: Tch! How did they found us?

Serpent follower: our goddess knows all! And we shall not let her down! We won't let you touch her!

Serpent follower 2: we only need to target the swordsmen and she will be invulnerable.

You: I'd like to see you get to her! Koharu!

Koharu: Mm! *she jumps using my back* HEAAAA!

Using a world spinning sword skill, Koharu spins in the air as her dagger glows cyan green and then hits the ground as a massive blast of light is launched to the ground dealing heavy area damage.

Serpent followers: GAAAGH! *they get knocked down*

Celine: (You)! Koharu!

You: Don't worry Celine we do this for a living. *I point my sword towards them* activate umbra orb! Bottomless swamp!

Just then, the purple orb that I got from the 20th floor boss begins to shine bright purple as the floor where the serpent followers were standing begin to spread into a black like ooze on their feet as they enable them to move around, thus making them vulnerable to attack.

Serpent follower 3: Gaahk! Such power! No wonder she wanted to get rid of them!

Serpent follower 1: Don't worry…

Snake: Sss…

You: is that a… snake?

Serpent follower: we still have our backup plan…

The snake then slithers down its arm as it jumps the black space between his legs and begins slithering at abnormal speeds towards Koharu.

Koharu: Aaah! Snakes!

Snake: Ssss!

You: Koharu! *I leap towards her*

Snake: SSSRSSS! *the snakes leaps its mouth towards Koharu*

With barely enough time to even react, the snake leaps towards Koharu like a mad cobra squirting out venom. And just like that…

Snake: SSSRAAAAGH!

Koharu: Augh!

…

…

…

Within seconds, the snake bites Koharu's neck and she falls down.

Snake: Sss…

You: Why you rotten, sneaky! *I slash the snakes head*

Snake: Sssrr…

The snake, with its head decapitated, is no longer able to move its body, yet its body still writhes.

You: Koharu! You okay?

Koharu: I-I'll be fine… thanks… *she says as she holds her neck*

Serpent followers: HEHAHAHA!

The snake follower's laugh with their robes covering their faces that seemed to belong to a cult, it really reminded me of LafCof.

Serpent follower: now that we have full filled our roles and duty, we shall be blessed with eternal—

Just then, their bodies begin to shatter.

Serpent follower 2: G-gagh..! *he gasps strangely for air* what is… happening…?!

Serpent follower 3: GAAAGH! *he scratches his face as blood tears begin to fall down*

Serpent follower 1: L-lady Nasyaaa! What of the eternal life you promised us?! Did you lie to us?!

Celine: now do you understand?! She cares for nobody but herself! You were just her sacrificial pawns.

Serpent followers: GAAAAAGH! *their bodies explode*

You: Yeesh… now that was gruesome.

Koharu: is everyone okay?

You: I think the bigger question is… are you okay?

Koharu: what do you mean?

You: *I materialize a mirror*

As Koharu sees herself in the mirror, she sees that her neck has two bite marks.

Koharu: Wh-what? How come it's not going away?

Celine: Koharu… I am afraid to say that your life is now in danger.

You: Danger? Danger how?

Celine: allow me to explain, that mark you have on your neck is known as the… Soul Cleaving.

You: Soul Cleaving?

Celine: one of the most esoteric and forbidden arts by our former ruler as she researched eternal life… the marks that appear on her neck proves that the art has been carried out successfully. It is a terrible one that splits the beings soul in half and is then implanted in the serpent's life. Now, if she is defeated, she can simply restore her life and return as many times as she wishes. Making her an immortal being with no way to defeat her.

Koharu: no way… what can we do?!

Celine: do not worry. This fragment can only be lasted if the host containing the spell is alive. If the hosts soul dies, then so too will the fragment. She will no longer be able to survive, thus making it a onetime opportunity to defeat her.

You: so that's it, huh? That's the boss quest… we must kill the host of the forbidden art, and in this case…

Koharu: the host is me… if I get killed… the boss will be vulnerable to our attacks, making it our chance to defeat it…

You: But… *I look at Koharu* no… there has to be some other way…!

Celine: do not fear…. That's why I am here.

You and Koharu: Huh?

Celine: believe it or not, I knew this day was going to come sooner or later. As leader of this clan, I have a duty to fulfill. *she then takes out a gem*

You: what's that?

Celine: a jewel passed down from one generation of my clan to the other. The Holy crystal of transmigration. It possesses a miraculous power that can affect any kind of spell. The Soul cleaving curse is no exception. With the power of the Holy crystal, the spell can be transferred to the user, thus freeing the host from its captivity.

You: But if that's the case…

Koharu: that means you will die…

Celine: Yes… but fear not, I have no regrets whatsoever… I lived a happy life… with a family and a brother… they a forged in the deepest part of my heart, and I wish to be with them.

You: But Celine… Augh… I just… there is a side of me that wants you to do it, but the other part of me is screaming not to do it… I can't have you get killed just to save another life… but if I don't then… *I look at Koharu*

I can see the look in Koharu's eyes… she feels the same way. I could tell.

Celine: don't worry my friends… from the moments you saved me, I could feel the warm sensation of your hearts. You two have a bond unlike any other, you two deserve to be together… *she grabs Koharu's hands* I can't just stand by and watch you two get separated…

Koharu: Celine… *her eyes begin to tear up*

Celine: you both are loyal people *she points the crystal towards Koharu* and when I die, please continue to show people your warmth.

You: Celine, I… I just…

Celine: (You), please continue to look after Koharu.

You: I will… I promise you… I will never forget this.

Celine: and I will never forget you… *she says with a smile in tears* now, let us begin…

The gem begins to glow bright platinum light as she holds it up.

Celine: Transmigrate!

The gem begin to glow brighter and the mark on Koharu's neck begins to shine as well.

Celine: Koharu, with this, we shall—Auggh!

Just then, a sharp curved like dagger splits open Celine's chest.

?: Sorry… but she must pay for this…

Just then, strange figure with a cursor that was once green now turns orange as the figure throws Celine to the ground.

You: Celine!

Celine: Augh… gagh… (You)… *she pushes the gem at me* Please… you must defeat the serpent… *she disappears into blue trickling polygons*

Koharu: Celine!

? 2: hehe, not bad… *he says with a proud smirk*

You: P-P-P-PoH!

Koharu: N-no way!

PoH: Well, well, well, if it isn't my old pals (You) and Koharu. How long has it been?

? 3: isn't it so sad when something doesn't go as plan?

You: Ghigh?! Johnny black?! XaXa?! Morte?! Buxum?!

Koharu: how did you guys get out of the black iron palace?!

Johnny: Oh, that? We just got some help from our new recruitment.

He then points to the strange figure standing behind them.

PoH: Meet Twilight, our new recruitment.

You: Twilight? Who are you?

Twilight: I am someone close.

You: Huh?

Twilight: igh… *the figure dashes at Koharu's ear* this is for taking him away from me.

Koharu: Wh-what?—Gaaagh!

The strange figure then stabs Koharu in the stomach as she falls down paralyzed.

You: Koharu!

PoH: Ah, it's so nice to see youngsters grow up.

You: H-hey! Stop it! *I push the figure away*

Twilight: Pugh! *she rolls around* Igh… you're lucky I can't hurt you… *she gets up* No matter, I guess since she can suffer, I can let this pass *she runs up and climbs up a big hill*

XaXa: Hehahaha! Have fun these last few days!

Morte: better enjoy them since you're not gonna see her again.

Just then, all the members climb up the hill and turn around to see me with their big wide grins.

PoH: Welp, I guess my work here is done as well. Oh and (You). I would keep my eyes on the prize here. No man or women is going to stay with someone unfaithful for so long.

Koharu: Ghigh! *she gasps with her eyes wide open*

You: what do you mean by that?

PoH: if I told you now, it would ruin the rest of the story. You know what they say, the anticipation of the end is almost worst then the end itself… maybe not in this case though… HEHAHAHAHA! *he climbs up the hill* better watch out (You), with that NPC girl dead, now the Kerry Assasin is gonna haft to die in order to defeat the boss… the way I see it, you have two choices… one, either kill the Kerry assassin yourself and let it be over with by your own hands or two, let other players do the dirty work and kill that woman in order to advance to the next floor! *he says with a very wide grin*

Twilight: let this be a lesson learn Koharu! Don't ever mess with family!

Koharu: Wh-what?

PoH: Welp, see ya later!

LafCof: HEHAHAHA! *they get teleported away*

As the LafCof members get teleported away, I am left with Koharu as a feeling of dread takes over my body, Celine was the only person who could make the floor boss vulnerable to attack… if Koharu is the only one with the spell cast upon, then that would mean… that killing Koharu would be the only way to advance through the game.

You: Igh… *I hold the gem and tap its properties* "To use the gem properly, you most shout transmigrate our loud while holding the gem in front of the person. Ten seconds later, the spell cast upon the host shall cast it upon its user" Oh… in that case—

Before I can even point the gem, a hand stops me.

Koharu: No, you can't! I can't let you get sacrificed for my sake. Please… promise me, you'll never use that thing.

You: But…

Koharu: even if it meant I'd survived, loosing you will just be… I wouldn't take it.

You: *I sigh* okay… I promise. Let us report this to the Assault team, maybe they can help.

Koharu: Yeah.

After that, Koharu and I went back to KoB HQ and began to discuss the recent event that took place.

You: and that's what happened.

Argo: I see… so that means…

Kirito: Koharu is marked with a spell that can grant us a chance to take it down, without its host dying, the boss will be impossible to beat.

Asuna: I am so sorry you guys had to go through that… I fell kind of responsible for this.

Koharu: No, no, don't blame yourself, there was no way you could have known.

Argo: Looks like PoH is back on the spotlight, along with his other guild buddies.

Sinon: and did you say that they had a new recruit?

You: Yeah, she appeared to be a female but I couldn't see her face. She is the one responsible for Koharu's curse… but I am rather curious…

Klein: what is it?

You: why did she only attack Koharu? I think it would have been wise to find out a way to ambush us both but instead she just went after Koharu. It's like she had a grudge against her.

Lisbeth: do you happen to know anyone who doesn't like you, Koharu?

Koharu: not that I can remember.

You: Her voice… seemed familiar as well… *I shake my head* agh, I must be losing my marbles. Anyways, I know this is too much to ask but… *I stand up from my chair* if any of you would be so kind to lend us a hand into figuring out a way to remove Koharu's curse or finding another way to make the boss beatable, I would really appreciate…. *I give a deep bow* please o beg of you all…!

Asuna: don't worry, I will inform all the members of KoB to start looking for any quests that can help us get a clue.

Lind: I will inform HDA.

Asuna: other guild members and solo players will be leaved with their decisions.

Kirito: I will help.

You: you will?

Kirito: of course I will, you're a friend… friends must help each other.

You: thanks man.

Klein: Furinkazan will do everything in its power to find out a way to remove the mark or find another boss quest.

Agil: the two-handed builders will help too. Any piece of information we can gather, we will deliver them.

Sinon: Koharu may be my rival… but she is also my best friends… she's been there for me ever since I can remember, what kind of person would I be if I didn't do the same?

Sanya: I am a part of their pack as well, it's only right to lend aid to their comrades.

Lisbeth: count me in too! I owe Koharu my life and livelihood after saving me countless of times.

Argo: as in info broker and friend, I too will help on findin' a solution to this.

Sachi: The Moonlit black cats will help too. We owe (You) and Koharu our lives after saving us, its our turn to return the favor.

You: thank you everyone… *I say with such relief*

Lind: alright, then I guess we all know what we must do. Find a way to get that mark off and seal out the floor boss.

Everyone: right!

Lind: then were off!

After that, everyone in the room began to leave but I stayed behind to think for a while… IF… this goes according to PoH's plan… there could be another guild war unleashed for the right of me wanting to protect Koharu from danger. I would be thinking selfishly about myself and my partner about wanting to keep her alive when so many other could possibly die… it will only be a matter of time before other members of other guilds begin to grow desperate and want Koharu dead before even thinking in through… and if that happens, of course I will defend her, thus making a huge conflict of me between other players… and that could unleash another guild war… PoH, why do you just want wars?

Asuna: (You…)

You: Hmm? *I turn around to see Asuna*

Asuna: I… I know I shouldn't be telling you this, but… I really feel like I am responsible for putting Koharu through this… and… in case in the worst case scenario… if… and I mean IF, we can't find a way to remove the mark… and the time to come across the floor boss comes sooner rather than later…

Asuna, with her shoulders trembling, she grabs a hold of my shirt and leans her head on my chest.

Asuna: I want you to be there for her… I want you to stay by Koharu's side… I want you to make her happy, make happy memories with her… please, I beg of you.

As she says those words, I can feel my chest beginning to get wet, I could tell she was crying.

You: Asuna… *I hug her head* thank you… you have been a huge help ever since I've met you… and here you are now, helping me once again.

Asuna: *she forms a smile between my chest* I just feel like someone needs to take care of you, it's like seeing a lonely child sitting alone on the sidewalk …

You: Har-har… hey um… if the worst case scenario does happen… can you do me a favor and try to cover us up? It's possible I might run away with her…

Asuna: I'll do what I can, but just… *she holds my cheek* promise me you won't go wrong…

You: *I sigh* I'll try *I say as I hold her hand*

Koharu: (You)! You coming?

You: Y-yeah! Coming! I-I gotta go…

Asuna: please be safe…

Later

After hours and hours of searching the floor, we came across nothing that could help us.

You: All this searching and still nothing?

Koharu: don't worry, there is no rush, it's not like I have a time limit.

You: No, but the Assault team members do.

Koharu: Everything will be fine… *she grabs my hands* the fact that you care so much for me already makes me feel safe… it's thanks to you that I feel safe.

You: Ah… *I let out a deep sigh* I guess it has been a long day… maybe we should head back to our inn and continue on tomorrow.

Koharu: I think it's for the best.

While although she smiled… I still felt very worried… I don't want to lose her… I can't lose her…

Meanwhile in another location

Twilight: They seem… quite happy together… am I… doing the wrong thing?... No… I can't back down now, she must pay… and she will pay.

The next day

You: Okay, when I said that I wanted actual quest to spawn up on the fields… I didn't mean an entire ocean of quest!

Koharu: there are so many to pick, the quest board is practically full.

You: and most of them are very hard quests.

Koharu: yeah… maybe we should start out small.

You: Yeah, let's start by defeating the field boss roaming around the west side of the beach.

Koharu: yeah, its sounds like a good start.

After accepting the quest, Koharu and I took on the journey and defeated the field boss roaming on the beach. Needless to say, it wasn't that hard to beat.

You: is it just me or are all these field bosses seem to be getting weaker and weaker?

Koharu: I really haven't notice, you and I just seem to get a better handle on these things. We have been fighting together ever since we met, I think it's only natural to grow accustom to what the other is doing.

You: I guess you do have a point there, we've been fighting together for so long, I know every attack you're going to make before you even make it.

Koharu: *she giggles* I feel the same way *she stops in her tracks and turns to see the sunset* Hmm…

You: *I turn around to see her* what's wrong?

Koharu: h-huh? Oh nothing, it's just… we've been fighting nonstop ever since we came here and never got a chance to relax, so… I kind of felt like enjoying it a bit…

Small waves were being sound as the gentle sea moved the stream and the birds chirped and sing as the sun began to set. It has only been half a day and we defeated 23 side quest with no clue of what to do with the mark… I know I should be focusing on the quests, but…

Asunas voice: please stay beside her… and make happy memories with her…

You: Mmm…

Koharu: oh, what am I thinking? Everyone else is giving it their all and here I am thinking about having fun, it's best if we just—

You: the beach is isolated… maybe we can have fun here.

Koharu: huh?

You: Yeah, what's wrong with having some fun?

Koharu: So… you really mean it?

You: Of course.

Koharu: okay then… um, could you close your eyes for a minute?

You: close my eyes? Okay… *I close my eyes*

As I close my eyes, all I can hear is her menu screen doing the little jingle it makes whenever we scroll it down, made me think that she was going to pick out something.

Koharu: okay… you can look now…

As I open my eyes, I see that Koharu is wearing a white swim top and a white skirt with a slight blue blouse and the skirt and her chest.

Koharu: so… what do you think? *she says with a slight blushed face*

You: y-you look… amazing…

Koharu: Oh, you…

You: come on *I say as I change into my own swimwear* the sea is not going to wait for us.

Koharu: h-hey! Wait for me!

With that, Koharu and began to splash each other with water as we enjoyed ourselves in the sea. Even though we couldn't swim, we could still play in the water.

Koharu: Ehahaha! That's cold!

You: theres still more where that came from! *I say as I splash more water on her face*

Koharu: Aaah! Hahaha! Stop!

While although Koharu had a curse on her neck, she still managed to smile and have fun… I am not even sure if she is just so strong… or just trying to make her last moments worth living for… NO! No, no, no, no, I shouldn't be thinking like that! She is going to live… she will live!

Koharu: hey (You), what should we do next?

You: U-um… I have an idea!

Koharu: what?

You: tag, you're it! *I say as I begin running away*

Koharu: H-hey! You started without consulting me, oh you're gonna get it now! *she says as she begins chasing me*

With Koharu having so much fun, I completely forget that she has a curse on her neck… I honestly don't know what to do, the smile she makes… I want to protect it forever… I mean… if anyone else were in my position…

Would they do the same?

Later

Innkeeper NPC: I am so sorry sir, but most of the rooms at our inn have already been taken. There is still one more in display but it only has one bed.

You: *I sigh* of course it is… well, I guess we can always—

Koharu: *she tugs on my sleeve* I… I actually don't mind…

You: O-oh… okay then… we'll take it.

Innkeeper NPC: Excellent, that will be 1500 col, dinner included.

You: thanks…

With so much running through my mind, I book the place and we both headed straight for our room. With me laying on the bed and staring at the ceiling, I felt very anxious as to knowing how Koharu was feeling. I felt very worried… but she doesn't even show any signs of distress.

You: So, how are you holding up?

Koharu: *she puts on her red nightgown* I am fine, it's not like the bite hurts or anything.

You: Yeah, but it can still cause trouble. We need to find a way to get rid of it before it's too late.

Koharu: it will be fine (You) *she lays down next to me* I know it.

You: Hmm… sure *I turn off the light*

Koharu: I know this isn't the first time we slept together but… this feels quite embarrassing.

You: I thought you were calmer about this more than I was.

Koharu: apparently you were wrong… Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have a family?

You: Hmm? A family?

Koharu: yeah… having a house of our own… getting married… having a child… raising them and taking them to school… it's something I have always dreamed about…

You: a house and a kid? I honestly never thought about it…

Koharu: if I were to ever have a baby… I would love it if it were a girl and just see her grow up in front of my own eyes.

You: Hmm… I honestly wouldn't mind a baby girl… she might even have your eyes.

Koharu: *she giggles* so you really don't mind on having a baby?

You: W-w-whoa, girl! I don't mind but this is a bit too—

Koharu: N-no, no, I mean in the future! We are still too young and I am pretty sure we can't have babies here… but I do like the idea of having one in the future…

You: Well… when we defeat this game… I promise I will grant you that future when we get back.

Koharu: Uh… *she smiles* okay…

You: come on, let's get some shut eye… tomorrow is another day.

Koharu: right…

A house… a wedding and a family… the three main things in building a life. Maybe I should start with a house, because if she and I keep sleeping like this… I fear the third wish might come sooner rather than later.

The few days later

You: *I sigh* another day and there is still nothing.

Koharu: wait… look, theres an NPC we haven't seen before, maybe it can be a clue.

You: better than nothing, come on.

Koharu and I approach the NPC that was searching on the sand and rocks, he was a young man and seemed to be quite troubled.

Male NPC: Oh no, oh no… where is it? Where is it?

You: um excuse me, are you looking for something?

Male NPC: O-oh, I am sorry dear travelers… something terrible has happened… I was going to propose to my fiancée as soon as the sun went down but before I could call her, a mermaid jumped out of the sea and snatched the ring from my hand. If I don't find it, I won't be able to give her the wedding of her dreams.

You: wait, but if a mermaid snatched the ring from your hand, why were you searching through the sand and rocks?

Male NPC: U-uh! *he looks at me dumbfounded* w-well, anyways, I just need the ring back.

Koharu: don't worry sir, we can help… I want to help.

You: Hmm… alright then, we will help you get the ring back.

Male NPC: R-really?! Oh thank goodness!

You: we might find that mermaid if we head over to the rocky area near the shore.

Koharu: yeah, mermaids often like to sit on rocks.

After that, Koharu and I headed to a small area filled with rocks, plant life and waterfalls everywhere, seemed like a nice spot.

You: mermaids are hard to find in the real world, I find it quite ironic that it's a lot easier to find one in here.

Koharu: do you believe in mermaids, (You)?

You: believe it or not, there is still a part inside me that still believes in Santa clause.

Koharu: really? Me too, I thought I was the only one!

You: who knows? They could be real, it's not like the ocean is 100% discovered.

Koharu: yeah, maybe they could exist, but how are we going to find our mermaid?

You: well, normally you don't find your enemies—

At that moment, I feel a small breeze near my left, from there a human-shaped fish jumps out of the water with its claw barely touching my chest as I bend my back backwards avoiding its attack.

Koharu: Margaret the naughty mermaid.

You: two health bars. A field boss.

Margaret: it's rare to see humans walk down here, it seems you have some sort of business with me, yes?

You: we are here to get the ring back… just hand it over, no one need to get hurt.

Margaret: No can do, this ring is mine, you want it? Come and get it! *she dashes with her two arms right at me*

You: yeesh, you remind me of the girl from the exorcist then a mermaid. *I leap out of the way* activate sabotage armament!

My sword along with the yellow orb from the 14th floor boss begin to shine brightly as the aura surrounds the mermaid and brings her down to the rocks.

Margaret: Igh! *she tries to get up* what is this pressure?

Koharu: HEAAA! *she leaps towards the mermaid*

With her dagger glowing bright green, she slashes her body 12 times, lowering her HP very quickly.

Margaret: AAAH! *she breaks free*

Using her tail, she wipes Koharu away and makes her crash into a wall, causing her to focus on me.

Margaret: RAAAGH! GHAAAARR!

Like a savage maniac, she uses her claws to try and attack me, but I move to quickly for her to even land an attack. Afterwards, I punch her claw away with the skill Typhoon taught me, causing her to flinch back at my attack.

You: HEAAA! *I unleash a seven deadly sins skill*

With her body getting slash seven times, she backs away as the seven slash marks brun her skin and back away in pain.

Maragaret: GAAAAAAAAAGH!

Koharu: HEAAA! *she tackles the mermaid down*

Margaret falls down with a loud thump as she struggles to get her balance back. As a result, her HP reaches the red zone and her eyes go from white and silver pupils to entirely red colored pupils, her claws grow sharper too.

Margaret: damn you… DAMN YOU!

Margaret tried to attack us using her claws and tail, but Koharu and I used our speed and agility abilities to take advantage and make her confused when she gets exhausted from attacking too fast.

Margaret: *she pants in exhaustion*

You and Koharu: HEAAAAA! *we both cross link the boss*

Margaret: AAAAAUUUGH! *she falls down* W-w-w-wait! I surrender! Please have mercy!

Koharu and I stare at the mermaid as her eyes are no longer red and she seems to be pleading for mercy.

Margaret: I'm sorry! I swear, I am deeply sorry! Here, you can have the ring back!

You: *I grab the ring* I hope you learned your lesson about taking things that are not yours.

Margaret: I'm so sorry... my family always looks down on me, my father is the captain of the royal guard of the underwater kingdom and I also have 12 older sisters and they all look down on me... I never impressed my father no matter what I did, as a result, it formed a stage of insecurity and self-doubt and it manifested in rage and aggression at anyone having a great time… so I try to ruin it for them so they can see how I feel…

You: I understand how you feel… I had a selfish family who never appreciated me, but this will not make things better, if anything, it will only make things worse… you are better than them, show them that you can be a better person-I mean, mermaid than them and that you can build your own life without them.

Margaret: do you really think so?

You: I know so…

Margaret: I see… maybe your right, I am special on my own way… I will never be like my father or sisters and I don't want to be like them… so instead, I will build my own life without them, I will find lover and I will be a better parent then he ever was. Thank you dear adventures…

Koharu: whoa… her name went from Margaret the naughty mermaid to Margaret the humble mermaid.

Margaret: thank you both for sparing my life… I wish you both the best of luck *she dives back in to the ocean*

Koharu: well, we completed the quest without having to kill the mermaid.

You: yeah, now that we have the ring, let's go back and deliver it to the man.

Koharu: right!

After that, Koharu and I headed back to the sea shore where we found the man staring at the ocean with a face… that seemed to be displeased.

You: here there sir, we got the ring back.

Male NPC: Oh… that's nice…

Koharu: whats wrong?

Male NPC: the wedding is cancelled… I found out that my fiancée was actually after my family's fortune… she was also planning on killing me so she could have all the wealth to herself… I heard her talking with some men and I confronted her… so I cancelled the wedding.

You: Oh… I am very sorry to hear that.

Male NPC: no worries, I had my suspicions, so I won't say I feel completely bad about it. As thanks for making you two go through all the trouble for no reason, you can keep the ring. There hasn't been a name engraved in it, so you can use it as you see fit. Here take these *he hands over a few piles of paper*

You: what are these?

Male NPC: wedding invitations. There is also a reservation for a wedding hall in those papers, if you both wish to have a wedding of your own, head down to the local chapel just at the south east of the exit.

You: Weeding ceremony?

Male NPC: there is also an engraver at the chapel, he will be more than happy to help you out, just show them the papers and he will happily oblige. Anyways, I must be going, thank you both so much for your help. I wish you both a happy life. *he leaves and heads to the city*

You: a wedding ceremony as a reward, who would have guess?

Koharu: I know, it's crazy.

You: should we go and check it out?

Koharu: Well, I mean… I don't mind… *she says with a blushed face*

After that, Koharu and I headed to the chapel the NPC told us and surely enough, the place was set up for a wedding ceremony.

Koharu: Hey, (You), how does one actually get married in SAO?

You: Easy *I scroll down my main menu* in the friends list, there is an option for marriage proposal, the sender should pick the ID of the player he or she wants to marry and it's up to the other individual to say yes or no and you can only marry someone one time. So if the player asks for a divorce, that player can't marry the same player again.

Koharu: oh… I see, so even if we decide to do this ceremony, we won't actually be getting married.

You: that's right. This is just a play, if we both actually want to get married, we need to get it from the marriage proposal button.

Koharu: Oh… then I guess its fine to do this ceremony… wait here.

After that, Koharu went inside the chapel and spoke to an NPC. I waited outside for like half an hour until the bells at the top of the chapel began to ring and white pigeons began to fly as the bells rang.

You: what's going on?

Koharu: Hey… sorry to keep you waiting.

I turn around to see Koharu walking to me, wearing a beautiful wedding dress. The dress was all white, as it should, it also had semi-blue ribbons and blue flowers aligned with it. She was also carrying the blue bouquet I gave her when I confessed my feelings for her.

You: K-koharu?

Koharu: w-what do you think?

You: you look… amazing… *I say in total surprise*

Koharu: thanks… I picked it up as I was looking through some wedding dresses in the chapel. Oh, and there are also a set of wedding tuxedos in the hall as well, the minister said that we both needed to be wearing these in order for the ceremony to take place.

You: Oh… I see… alright then, wait here for me outside *I enter the chapel*

I then started to put on my wedding tuxedo and even though I knew this was just a rehearsal... I still can't help but feel so nervous, it's like I'm really getting married. The minister said that I needed to be upfront in the wedding hall just like a normal marriage would do and wait for Koharu to arrive. After some time, the bells of the chapel began to ring and white pigeons began to fly as they fled around the wedding hall. From there an old organ player began to play "Bridal Chorus" and the doors of the chapel opened with Koharu walking down the alley with small steps and a nervous but happy smile… I could tell she was excited.

Koharu: you look nice…

You: thanks… shall we do this?

Koharu: lets…

Minister NPC: Dearly beloved, we are gathered together to join together this man and this woman in holy matrimony. If there is anyone who has a reason as to why this couple shall not get engage, speak now or silence forever.

You: Krkk! There is no one else here…

Koharu: Shh, stick to the program…

Minister NPC: alright then, (You), do you take Koharu to be your lawful wedded wife? Do you promise to love and care for her, both in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad as long as you both shall live?

You: (geez, a bit too realistic) *I gulp* I do…

Minister NPC: Koharu, do you take (You) to be your lawful wedded husband? Do you promise to love and care for him, both in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad as long as you both shall live?

Koharu: … I do…

Minister NPC: with the power vested in me! I now pronounce you husband and wife! You may kiss the bride!

Koharu: thanks for everything…

You: No… thank you…

With both of our arms hugging each other, we close our lips together and the bells of the chapel begin ringing again as the seal of our promise is now completed. Without a doubt, it felt like a real marriage. Afterwards, we began making our way for the teleport gate and I thought that it was the perfect moment to give her the surprise.

You: that wedding was almost too realisitic.

Koharu: I know, I was really nervous the whole time.

You: guess it just goes to show that SAO can be a bit too real sometimes. Speaking of witch, I have a surprise for you.

Koharu: surprise? What is it?

You: surprise. It's on the 22nd floor, I am going to cover your eyes as we go.

Koharu: Okay…

With her eyes now blindfolded, I guided her to the teleport gate and began to make our journey to the 22nd floor.

You: alright, were almost there, just a bit further.

Koharu: Come on, I am already dying of excitement!

You: just a few more steps, aaannd…. Were here. *I take off the blindfold* Taa-daa!

Koharu: A… A… A HOUSE?!

You: Yup… or a cabin in this case. I remembered you said that you would love to live here when we were celebrating your birthday.

Koharu: Oh! So it's that cabin?! So that's why the lake is so close.

You: Yup, it wasn't cheap but it was worth it.

Koharu: how much did it cost?

You: 15,000,000 col.

Koharu: WHAT?!

You: Yup, but don't worry, there is still plenty left for us to even buy furniture, plus the house is not so bad, why don't you go and check?

Koharu: Okay! I am so excited!

After entering the house, the first thing with what are greeted with is the living room, with two sofas, a red carpet under each one, a small coffee table and a chimney. There were two windows on the sides of the chimney and at the right side of the living room was the kitchen which had a large oval shape dining table, a set of showcase cabinets and a fridge and a stove.

Koharu: Wow! This place already feels like home!

You: the bedrooms are next.

Koharu: Ooh! I wanna see!

After that, we both walked down a small hall and entered our room. The room had two separate beds, along with a closet, a window that showed the lake and a nightstand that separated the beds in the center.

Koharu: Aaah! *she says as she lays down on the bed* I love this house… does it come with a bath?

You: A tub with nice warm water? Yes.

Koharu: I LOVE THIS HOUSE EVEN MORE!

You: *I chuckle* I knew you would. And we are still not done, we have money left over to buy some more furniture.

Koharu: Ooh! I wanna set a picture frame on the side of the beds, Oh! I also wanna set a welcome sign on the door. I also wanna set the new ingredients I collected so I can start using the kitchen!

You: calm down, we have all day. Come on, let's get to work.

Koharu: YEAH!

With Koharu jumping up and down and running all over the house, reminded me of a child seeing an amusement park for the first time… its actually kind of funny, it reminds me of the first time she experienced the real SAO experience… before the whole imprisonment thing happened of course.

The next day

?: ake… up…

You: Igh…

?: Wake… come… up…

You: Wha…?

?: Wake up!

You: AAH!

Koharu: finally, you're up. It's already nine, breakfast is ready.

You: Breakfast? Where are we? *I take a look around* oh yeah, we bought the house.

Koharu: how could you forget? You're the one who bought it.

You: *I yawn* what's that smell? It smells like… curry?

Koharu: Yup.

You: you made curry in SAO?! Is that even possible?!

Koharu: it is with a few tricks, Asuna is the one to thank. *she materializes a book* she lent me this cookbook she made.

You: Oh, can I see it?

Koharu: Sorry, no can do, I promised to never show it to anyone, not even you.

You: tch, some trust.

Koharu: Sorry, but a promise is a promise.

You: I guess I can't argue with a promise, more importantly… why are you wearing that?

Koharu was wearing an outfit that seemed to be that of a maid outfit, but I mean those maids that you only see in anime, not the classy bookish type of maids.

Koharu: D-d-d-don't get the wrong idea, I needed an apron to make breakfast and… this was the only thing in the closet…

You: (that thing came with the house?) well, I guess you do look cute in that outfit.

Koharu: *she blushes* Sh-shut up… anyways, get dress and go eat your breakfast before it expires and bursts away.

You: O-oh! Right!

After getting changed, I went to the kitchen and saw that the table was filled up like a buffet. Two plates of curry, pancake towers, egg rolls and a pitcher of orange juice.

You: Wh-whoaa!

Koharu: bonapetit.

You: *I sit down and clap my hands together* thanks for the meal! Auum… *munch* *munch* Wow! Thish ish shoo good!

Koharu: *she giggles as she sees me*

You: What?

Koharu: you have rice on your cheek. *she grabs the rice and eats it*

You: Wow, I never thought you would be so bold.

Koharu: Hmm? What?

You: Oh nothing.

Koharu: what's the plan for today?

You: finish breakfast and then go back to the 61st floor to find a quest to remove the curse.

Koharu: Okay!

After finish eating, Koharu and I went back to the 61st floor to try and find a quest to remove the curse but of course, we found nothing.

6 hours later

You: *I sigh* still nothing, we are getting nowhere.

Koharu: perhaps it's time we ask for help.

You: but who?

Koharu: can you say, Argo?

Argo hasn't spoken after hearing the news but knowing her, she must have at least a lead. We messaged her and surprisingly enough, she replied back in just 10 seconds.

Argo: heya! Long time no see.

Koharu: Argo!

Argo: glad to see my two top informants still in shape.

You: have you come across anything?

Argo: you could say that, although I have my doubts about it, it's best if you speak with the NPC yourselves.

You: alright then…

Argo found an elder NPC that said he used to be a part Celine's group before finally retiring.

Elder NPC: Who are you two travelers?

You: we came to ask if you know a way to remove this curse my partner has.

Elder NPC: I see… you two are the chosen ones our leader Celine chose, am I wrong?

You: No… you're not.

Elder NPC: I see… *he turns to see us* then I will gladly help you. Once upon a time, there was a forbidden spell known as immortality. A spell that grants the user eternal life and youth, even of the user were to die of a stab in the heart or a slash in the head, the user can revive and continue to live on by its own free will.

You: So even if we kill Koharu and make the mark disappear, thus making the boss vulnerable to our attacks, she can revive of her own free will and she will still be alive?

Argo: that's what I understood, yes… but I don't trust this quest, why would Kayaba set a quest with such a powerful skill? It most come at a price if it's that valuable.

Elder NPC: that's right young one... obtaining the spell of immortality has a very high price. In order to obtain it, one must renounce being human and take the lives of many people as possible. As soon as the lives have accumulated on your sword, the spell will hear its calls and you will become an immortal being.

Koharu: if that is the case… then I refuse the offer, I don't want to take the lives of innocent people just for the sake of my own benefit

Elder NPC: that is probably the best choice. The spell is far too dangerous and far too great for a being to wield, even the great serpent itself hesitated to get such a skill, it would be best if you defeat the great serpent with the skill you have as a human being, any kind of unholy mark you carry on yourself will be the result of a terrible disaster.

Koharu: right… thank you so much for your help though.

Later

Argo: sorry to get yer hopes up but I just thought I should let you know.

Koharu: don't worry, now we know that there are different outcomes with the quest, this could be a step further into figuring this thing out.

Argo: Thanks fer that… well, if anything else comes up, I'll be sure to let you guys know.

You: thanks anyway…

Later on the 61st floor beach

You: Koharu… are you sure you didn't want to take the quest? Cause if you don't want to get your hand dirty, I could—

Koharu: don't you dare say it, we made a promise to never cross that line. I don't want you to make that same mistake again… please…

You: Alright, alright, it's just I am desperate to find—

Before I can finish my sentence, I see that a pack of some sort is thrown into the air and is about to land just where we were standing. Without thinking, I grab Koharu by the waist and jump on top of a rock as the pack lands on the sand and detonates like an explosion.

Koharu: w-was that a hand-crafted bomb?!

You: looks like it…

Just then, three players emerge from behind some rocks and approach Koharu and me.

Player 1: so you managed to dodge that attack? Wouldn't expect any less from a top ranking member of the Assault team.

You: if you guys are here to rob us and kill us you can forget it *I jump down and unsheathe my sword* I will stop you guys and have you sent to the black iron palace! Now get down-!

Koharu: No (You), wait! Look! *she points to their cursors*

You: Wha…?! You guys are green players?!

Koharu: not just any green players, they are members of the Assault team! His with KoB and the others are from HDA!

You: Why?

KoB member: because that woman needs to die so we can proceed to the next floor… look, we know its not fair but it's the only way.

HDA member 1: don't worry, we will handle this so you don't.

HDA member 2: we also have a therapist back at our guild, she said that would be more than happy on supporting you overcome this… don't worry, we will make sure she doesn't suffer and—

You: Shut up! You really think I am just gonna let you kill her by just giving me those stupid reasons! Fuck your reasons! No one is touching her as long as I am here!

HDA member 1: *he sighs* I told you guys this would happen.

HDA member 2: guess we'll just haft to do it by brute force *he says as he prepares his sword and shield*

You: bring it on…

Using a knockdown sword skill, the member jumps in front of me to try and knock me down to the ground…but its movements are too predictable…and too slow. Using my speed, I manage to slow down time and make the member move in such slow motion that I can get out of the way.

You: too slow… *I punch the guild member away*

With the guild member rolling around in the sand, the others are left dumbfounded with what they are seeing.

HDA member 2: Whoa! H-h-how did he do that?!

KoB member: his speed level must be really high. We might have underestimated him, but he is outmatched, we can still get around him if we work together.

HDA member 2: right! *he prepares his weapons* together!

You: Not if you are standing there *I say as I stab the ground* activate umbra armament stone!

With his name called out, the sand under the HDA member's legs begins to form a circular black void, and from there, a pair of white hands grab his legs and throw him out.

HDA member 2: WHOOAAAA! Gagh! *he falls down on the sand*

KoB member: Wha?! I didn't know his sword could do that!

You: that's not all it can do…

KoB member: Grr… *he prepares his sword and shield* it doesn't matter, there is a reason why I am considered one of the best in KoB, don't you dare underestimate me!

You: hmm… *I point my sword downwards*

With both of us getting into battle position, we leap at each other with our swords powered up with a sword skill. We knew that one of us had to get the clash in order to turn the tides, but the question was… who was it gonna be?

You and the KoB member: HEAAAA!

"SHWIIING"

Our swords clash with each other and bring a bright flash as our bodies move to the side with our attacks. The KoB member is left in shock as he sees his sword… now slashed in half.

KoB member: Wh-wha…?! My sword…! *his sword bursts into polygons*

You: Hmph!

Without thinking, I point my sword to the three members and shout the words.

You: Activate sabotage armament stone!

With the yellow orb from the 14th floor boss, the yellow aura surrounds the players and pins them to the ground as a paralysis icon appear on their cursors.

You: Despair… no mercy…

HDA member 1: Giigh… why does his voice sound so… demonic?!

Koharu: (You…?) *she says in a scared voice*

You: Gaaagh…

Emptiness… that's all I feel… a black purplish aura is surrounding my sword as I approach the members… death is all I can think about…

You: if it's for Koharu… *I raise m sword up high* I'll take you guys out no matter what!

HDA member 2: N-no! Please, I don't wanna die!

KoB member: come on, think about this! Please, don't kill us!

You: despair… hatred…

My body gets ready to strike, with one swing they'll all surely—

Koharu: NO!

My thoughts are interrupted as I feel a tightness around my arms and back.

Koharu: Please don't… I know your angry but they are innocent… they just wanted to get back home, please don't make the same mistake again! Please I beg of you!

You: Igh…

With a lot of emotions swarming out of me… I lay low and hold my head as a terrible sensation flows throughout my body…

You: Augh… what happened?

Koharu: you almost killed them… *she says in a slight panicked tone*

You: I did…? I don't remember…

KoB member: Please forgive us! We'll leave, we swear! Just don't kill us!

You: Kill you…? Why would I…?

I look down and see that my sword as a slight black purplish aura fading into the sword… what was that exactly?

You: did I… seriously tried to kill you?

HDA member 2: Y-yeah! Your voice even changed! It sounded like a demon!

You: What…? I honestly don't remember any of this.

KoB Member: L-Look, we're sorry we tried to hurt you, but...we were desperate. My wife in the real world... told me she was pregnant with my child... I was so happy to hear that... but then I got caught up in this stupid game and I can't see them again... I don't even want to know if it's a boy or a girl, she may have already given birth and I can't stand the fact that I'm stuck here and not seeing my own child grow up.

Koharu: Mmm…

KoB member: and it's not just me, everyone wants to see their families again… everyone just wants to leave this game as soon as possible…

HDA member 1: we'll leave, we promise… but we would suggest if you all don't come out for a while, everyone in the Assault team is growing impatient and want to kill your partner so they can defeat the boss.

You: Igh…

KoB member: Were sorry… we truly are.

You: I-its fine… just don't hurt anyone else… come on Koharu… we need to get out of here…

With dreadfulness filling up inside me, I spend the next days trying to figure out a way to get the curse off of Koharu, but everyone, even Heathcliff just gave me the same answer… there is nothing that can be done since it is an action of the cardinal system… it was all just an endless loop of the same useless answers. The attacks were getting larger as the days go by, a lot of groups tried to assault me or threaten me with telling them where Koharu was… things were getting dangerous, dangerous for the both of us.

You: Koharu… we should run away.

Koharu: (You…)

You: things are getting dangerous out there Koharu, you have no idea… maybe we can go and hide in the mountains on the 55th floor.

Koharu: (You), stop it.

You: or maybe we can go and hide in the forest of wandering in the 35th floor.

Koharu: (You).

You: or maybe we can get the curse off with some sort of potion, right? Maybe a herb or plant can get rid of it.

Koharu: *she hugs me* I appreciate all the sacrifices that you are doing for me… but we can't take extreme measures into our hands with all the problems we already have…

You: but—

Koharu: Everything will be okay… I know it.

You: how can you be the most optimistic of all this…? I can barely even stand on my own two feet…

Koharu: *she giggles* you've always been the one to spoil… come on, let's go to bed, I am sure things will be better in the morning…

You: if you say so…

Even though I said that, I just couldn't sleep... I just stared at the ceiling and couldn't shake the thought that Koharu was in danger... I tilt my head to see her sleeping peacefully on the other bed... I just couldn't. I get how she stays so calm besides the fact that her life is in danger... I could see the two bite marks on her neck glowing in the dark.

You: that mark is at fault for everything… *I sit up and materialize a gem* shout transmigrate and the curse shall be casted on the user…

Koharu's voice: please promise me you will never use it, promise me…!

You: *I sigh in frustration* sometimes I hate myself for making promises… *I put the gem away* damn it… why did this happen…?

The next day

You: *I get up and yawn* that's weird, Koharu is my alarm clock, why didn't she wake me up? *I turn to the side* Koharu, are you awak—? Koharu?

As I turn to see the other bed, I see that Koharu is nowhere in sight.

You: Wh-what?! Is she in the kitchen?

As I get up, I see that there is a letter on the nightstand.

You: a letter? *I grab the letter and read it* Hmm…

…

…

…

You: What?! Igh! *I run out of the house*

The note just swings itself in the air and slowly lands on the floor showing all the words she wrote.

---

Letter from her: Dear (You), if you are reading this then you probably noticed that I am gone… I am really sorry I had to say goodbye like this… I thought about it again and again, and I came to the conclusion that it's best for me to go. But I know that my conviction would waver away the moment I saw your face. That's why I've decided to end this with a letter. Saying goodbye isn't what I want… it's the total opposite… I want to be with you on the next floor and the next to come… I want to be with you even after we complete SAO… I want to spend my days with you going on dates, seeing different parts of the world, marrying you and having a house and family of our own. … I want to build a life with you… I always knew that you would be a part of my future. We've been together ever since we got trapped in SAO, before I knew it, we'd spent so many days fighting side by side, sharing our thoughts and feelings… I never knew that being with someone could mean so much to me… do you remember when we defeated the second floor boss? Asuna told me that she felt proud of me for finding someone I could rely one… someone to give me happiness in this horrible world… it was at that moment, that I knew that we would be together…

---

You: Igh… Koharu! Where are you?!

I run through the stalls but can't find any sign of Koharu nearby.

You: Koharu! Please come back!

---

Letter from her: how about when we talked about our dream with Liten and talked about heroes with Lueur? There was this moment where Lueur asked us about what heroes meant for us, I guess if you think about it, there is no concrete answer as to what a hero is, a firefighter can be a hero, a police officer, a stranger even… but I can say this wholeheartedly… you have always been my hero… you were the one to give me hope into believing that we could clear all 100 floors and make it back to the real world. I can tell the whole world with pride that you are incredible, that my partner is a hero! It's not just players either, you gave hope to NPC as well. Kizmel, Idis, that girl on the 25th floor, Ratio, Erassa, the spider on the 47th floor and so many others, they just seemed like normal puppets following a program… but you showed a light I've never seen with them… a light that made me think and believe that they are alive… they might not have a heart and soul, but they definitely show emotions… it's a bit hard to explain… but my point is that you showed me and a bunch of other players that all life in SAO matters.

---

You: Koharu! Where are you?! Please don't do this!

---

Letter from her: you know, writing this reminds me of Sanya. I never thought I would get so close to her as a friend, she always seemed like the type who would prefer to do things on her own… but she showed me a lot of important things in this world, the first one came when I got kidnapped by the members of LafCof with her… I was so scared when I got captured alongside her, but I was somehow able to hold out because you were there. Then you let yourself get hut on my behalf, and that hurt me so much… way more than getting hurt myself. The way you stood up for me showed me that you would do anything for my safety… but I didn't felt comfortable with you dealing with that sort of thing… I guess that was partly the reason of why I snapped back then… sorry for slapping you, but I just wanted you to be honest with me from the very beginning… you know you could have trust me, I knew I could trust you after all.

---

You: Koharu!

---

Letter from her: I think it was at that realization that made Stilla stare at us in the way she did… or perhaps you didn't notice, Kirito didn't notice as well. I was a little embarrassed when I noticed… but it didn't bother me at all. If anything, it made me happy… If you still don't understand what I'm talking about, then this is the only secret I'm going to keep, you'll find out for yourself. Oh, I have one final request… Please keep the brooch you gave me…

---

You: *I grab the brooch tightly in my hands* damn it… Koharu!

---

Letter from her: it's been like a charm to me… every time I am scared, I hold the brooch tightly and it gives me courage to fight… whenever you feel like you are in danger… hold the brooch tightly and don't ever let go… that is where I will be.

---

You: Please no… Koharu! *I continue to run through the streets*

---

Letter from her: you have gave me so many precious things… some that have shape of course, but the time I have spent with you is more than a treasure on its own… but… I cannot stay with you any longer…

---

You: (I could see a few dots of the paper wrinkled due to wetness, I would imagine that she was crying the moment she wrote those next words…)

---

Letter from her: it's scary and it's painful… but, if all of these people continue to remain trapped here because of me and cannot go see their families because of this stupid thing… it just doesn't seem right… that's why… (You), please make me one more promise… promise that you will become a true hero… help all the players that are trapped in here make it back to the real world… also, of one day you find that you have a new partner, don't let the thought of me bother you, I want you to treasure them… I have no doubt that one of the girls who have feelings for you might end up with you being your new partner… and I don't mind it, not anymore. You can go out with whomever you like, it's your choice to make not mine… but do promise that you'll think about me every once in a while… that's not too much to ask, is it?

---

You: Koharu… please be safe… I don't want another partner… I can't lose another partner… please… KOHARU!

---

Letter from her: don't worry (You)… I know you can do it, I know this will hurt you deeply so I don't mind if you take a few days or even weeks or months out of the Assault team, but do promise that you will bounce back and continue to clear Aincrad so everyone can go home. I told you everything would be okay, and it will… I know from the bottom of my hear that it will be okay… thank you for giving me a life in SAO, thank you for making a few of my wished come true… and thank you for being with me… I love you… I love you so much, more than life… thank you for everything… goodbye… my one and only partner… Koharu.

---

You: Damn it… damn it, damn it! Where is she? I've already been to her most favorite spots and there is no sign of her… if I were Koharu… where would I want to be so I can be alone?

…

…

…

You: wait! I know where she is!

Without wasting any more time, I rush to the beach of the 61st floor to see and hope that she would be there. To my surprise… she was there, standing near a cliff where the waves were crashing.

Koharu: …

You: Koharu!

Koharu: stay back! Don't come anywhere near me… I had to gather a lot of courage in order to do this… but the moment I see your face, all that determination…

You: I knew you would be here… this is the place where I gave you that ring back.

Koharu: I wanted to see this place that meant so much to me one last time… I just haft to do this, (You). Please don't interfere!

You: Koharu… let's just go home…

Koharu: I CAN'T! Don't you see… igh… I already said goodbye… you think this is easy for me! The thought about leaving you just makes my heart break into millions of pieces! *she yells in a crying tone* I can do this… with just one jump, I will be able to fix everything and the players can continue to the next floor… there won't be any need for anyone having to kill me… I can just do it myself…

You: (it's just like my dream… I can't let it happen!) Koharu please… I can't lose another partner… I can't lose you!

Koharu: Please… you haft to understand why I am doing this… I don't want you to fight anyone for my sake… I can't have you killing me either because I know you will blame yourself so deeply because of it… I haft to do this myself…

You: Koharu, this isn't the answer! This is exactly what PoH wants, he just wants us both to suffer… we can fight back together.

Koharu: even so, everyone will still want me dead because of this curse… this is the right thing to do, even if it is what PoH wants… it's the right thing to do. Just please keep the promise I asked you… become the strongest player of them all and bring everyone in SAO back to the real world… build a life and have a family, please be happy, I don't want you to live the rest of your lives with depression over this incident… so please… keep the promise for me.

You: b-b-but… I can't do it without you!

Koharu: Please… *her tears fall like waterfalls* please understand why I am doing this… I love you (You)… but I haft to go…

You: But… maybe we can—

?: SKRAAAAW!

You: Oh come on! Why now of all times?!

Just then, a giant bird with colorful feathers flies down and flaps its wings signaling that its ready for battle as it shows its 2 health bars.

You: the Phoenix illumine

Phoenix illumine: SKRAAAAW!

You: this is a nightmare class boss, no way can we beat it by ourselves.

Koharu: then leave… now I don't have a reason to kill myself, I can let this beast kill me and I will also be doing it by protecting the person I love… I said it once but I'll say it again… thank you (You), for everything… goodbye *she says with a tearful smile*

You: *I sigh deeply* Koharu *I scroll down my main menu* I am extremely disappointed in you *I materialize the gem* for the first time on my life *I point the gem towards her* you make me break a promise.

Koharu: (You!) NOOO!

You: transmigrate!

As I shout the words, the gem begins to glow and the mark on Koharu's neck disappears.

Koharu: Huh? The mark, I can't feel it anymore but… I can't see it on you.

You: Hmm…

Phoenix illumine: SKRAAAA!

You: we'll worry about that later, let's take down this boss first!

Koharu: F-f-fine… *she prepares her dagger*

Phoenix illumine: *the boss flies up high*

With the boss flapping its wings very violently, it fires a set of very strong wind currents at our faces and causes a defense debuff.

You: it causes debuff effects.

Koharu: not only that, but it seems that it can create offensive strikes with the debuffs.

Phoenix illumine: SKRAAAAW!

The boss uses its wind attacks to create whirlpools of earth and points directly at us. Not only that, but it seemed to have fire breath that produced a burn debuff along with its feathers that doubled as a homing needles.

Koharu: *pant* *pant* this boss is really tough! None of our attacks are working.

You: we need to find a different strategy… we need to work together… you know what we must do.

Koharu: Mmm… yes…

You: Alright… on my signal.

Phoenix illumine: SKRAAAWW! *the boss fires its feathers as needle pins*

Koharu: Now… *she begins running*

With the feathers targeting Koharu, she runs through the beach and takes cover on the rocks as the feathers begin to break the rock little by little.

Phoenix illumine: SKRAAAA—!

As it focused on Koharu, I took the opportunity to smash the boss into the ground with the sabotage armament stone, thus making the boss get paralyzed.

Koharu: Hup! *she jumps 10 feet high in the hair* HEAAA!

Using her body and elbow, he slams the boss into the ground, but doesn't end there, using the boss's body, she slams the body into a double jump so it smashes the boss again, but she doesn't stop there she hits the boss again using her body and continues to throw punches with the same skill over and over again.

You: whoa! This is new!

Koharu: HEAAAAA! *she smashes the boss*

"KUURPOOW!"

As she hits the boss once more, her body glowed brightly as she hits the boss again, causing a detonation explosion from the impact.

Phoenix illumine: SKRAAAAUUU! *the boss howls in pain*

Koharu: hmph! *she lands on the sand*

You: Whoa!

Phoenix illumine: SKRAAAW! *the boss flaps its swings*

You: the boss is weakened out thanks to your attacks. *my sword shines bright black* activate executionar armament stone!

With the black orb from the 25th floor boss, my sword shines bright black as it surrounds the boss and multiple slash marks begin to appear on its body. Each scratch coming from the orb from the 25th floor boss, as it does, the boss gets weakened out by all the strikes and falls down to the ground as it struggles to maintain itself.

You: Koharu!

Koharu: Right!

We both grab our hands tightly and a bright flash begins to glow on our palms.

Phoenix illumine: SKRAAAAAW!

The boss shouts at us angrily as it tries to fly its way towards us, while although it couldn't fly, it could still run pretty fast.

You: come on, it's now or never!

Koharu: RIGHT!

You and Koharu: HEAAAAAA!

With both of us running at the same time, our palms glow brighter and brighter as we get closer to the boss. The boss was preparing an attack and the inside of his beak began to glow bright orange. If I had to guess, it was going to prepare a breath of fire.

You: Here we…

You and Koharu: GO! HEAAAA!

We both leap in front of the boss as its fire breath also catches up to us, to our surprise… the fire does nothing as we both slash through the flames and get closer and closer to the boss.

You and Koharu: GRAAAAAAAAA!

In the blink of an eye, we both cut down the boss as its entire body falls in half while Koharu and I landed on the other side of the field with our hands still intact. The boss bursts into polygons as the congratulatory screen is shown in front of us.

You: We did it… we got an item as well, but we'll check that later.

Koharu: I'm sorry! I am so sorry for doing that… now thanks to my mistake… you have the mark on your neck…! *she says as she bursts into tears*

You: Koharu… can I hug you?

Without hesitating, I take her in my arms as she cries on my shoulder and I let her get all the stress she was holding back the entire time… I knew it affected her, who would want to be in a life or death situation like her… she allowed me to cry on her shoulder… now it's my turn to return the favor.

Koharu: *she cries on my shoulder*

You: I am sorry as well… if only I have been in my best behavior, maybe things would have turned out differently… if only there was a manual about these things…

…

…

…

You: ! Oh my god… of course!

Koharu: What…?

You: why didn't I think of that?!

Koharu: what is it?

You: we need to get the others now, I think I may have found a way to remove this curse once and for all.

Koharu: really? …okay then…

After that, we contacted everyone we know and asked them to meet up at the KoB meeting room. After a few hours, everyone was in the room and it was time I told them about the idea I came up with.

KoB meeting room

Asuna: alright, we are all here and acquainted for, (You), you said you had something to tell us?

You: that's right… I believe I may have found a way to remove this curse.

Sachi: and how do you intend on doing it?

You: *I grab the gem and read the instructions to them out loud* so as you can see, it says that it needs to wait 10 seconds in order for the curse to get lifted and casted upon the user, if my hypothesis is correct, the moment the curse disappears from the current user, the curse doesn't affect the boss as long as it stays on the user, so in other words, if we lift the curse at the exact right time, we can defeat the boss as soon as its HP reaches the red zone, as soon as it reaches its last points of life, that's when we'll use the crystal. Using the ten seconds we have of the curse being lifted, we can use it to defeat the boss without having to kill anyone.

Asuna: I see… that's actually not a bad idea.

Kirito: I can see how it would work, but there is no guarantee that it will actually work. The cardinal system might read it as a bug and respawn the boss anyway. Of course, I'm only speaking hypothetically, it's the only idea we have so far, plus the Assault team members are starting to plan an attack strategy on Koharu. If this continues there could be another guild war, we're just going to bet on this whether we like it or not. SAO might be like a perfect program, but it was made by a fallible human. It's entirely possible that your plan will work.

You: then we know what we must do. Lind, think you can lend a hand on defeating the boss?

Lind: Already called in for back up.

Asuna: I will also contact other members of KoB to lend a hand, a lot of members aren't going to agree on this but it's worth a shot. Are you okay with this, Koharu?

Koharu: yes, (You) sacrificed so much for me, it's only fair that I do the same.

Sanya: then that means we are all going.

Sinon: we will help in any way we can.

Sachi: you can count on the Moonlit Black cats to help as well.

Klein: You can count on us too!

Agil: Same goes for us!

You: then its settled… were going to defeat the boss.

Meanwhile, in an unknown location, Twilight POV

PoH: What?! What do you mean they found a way to defeat the boss without having to kill the Kerry Assasin?!

Johnny Black: that's what kuradeel said sir, I have no idea as to why.

PoH: GrrrAAAAA! That does it, no matter what I do, they always find a way to ruin my fun!

Twilight: Fun? What do you mean?

PoH: it's nothing important, Twilight. Looks like I have no choice… *he unsheathes a weapon*

Morte: Whoa! What's that boss?

PoH: I got it from an elder NPC that was standing around in the beach… I heard he was an expert on researching forbidden skills that can grant its user amazing powers… but it's not easy to get… looks like it's time that you all landed me a hand. *he turns around* listen up! There is still one more chance to get our revenge on the Phoenix duo and the other brats but I need your help… this skill that I am going to acquire requires a lot of lives in order for it to work, if you all wish to lend me a hand on getting our revenge on the Phoenix duo and all the other members who made fun of us, you will give me your lives and lend your powers to destroy them once and for all!

All the members of LafCof stand up as they hear their boss's words screaming through the walls. Without hesitation, the members roar in agreement as they decide to give their lives so that PoH can achieve a unique ability.

PoH: Excellent! I promise you that your lives will not go for nothing, I will avenge you and all our suffering and humiliation they gave us... this is the time... Laughing Coffin will take its revenge!

LafCof: YEAAAAH!

All the members laugh like maniacs as they give in to their leader and let him take their lives away.

PoH: Alright then… *he jumps down in front of them* It's ShowTime! *he says with wild grin*

PoH begins to slash down his own guild members as they all begin to disappear one by one. Each polygon of life is absorb into the weapon he was wielding and I just watched in horror as to what was happening.

Twilight: what is this…? I thought he just wanted to get revenge on Koharu, not whatever the heck this is… who is this guy? And… what is this place? *I say as I back away*

XaXa: what's wrong Twilight?

Twilight: O-Oh, n-nothing, I am just very excited to get my revenge on Koharu.

Johnny Black: Oh, you will get your revenge… we all will *he says with a sinister laugh*

Twilight: R-right… hehe… (Brother…)

Meanwhile, in the boss room

Argo: and that should about cover it up.

Asuna: thanks for the info, Argo. Now, do we all know our roles?

Assault team: YEAAH!

Asuna: then let us defeat this boss and save Koharu from this curse once and for all!

Assault team: YEAAAH!

Lind: Move out! *he says as he opens the door*

As the doors are open, the room lights up instantaneously, showing an underwater theme room with the sound of ocean waves moving from above and the shine of the sun shading the waves into the floor.

Silica: the room is lighting up as Argo said it would.

Yuna: then that means that the boss must be close by.

Nautilus: but where is it?

?: GRAAAAAAUUURR!

At that moment, a giant sea serpant like boss with fins and claws begins to slither its way over to us.

You: Nasya, the nine-life snake

Koharu: it's just as the villagers described her, a massive snake with eternal life…

Agil: if we defeat this thing without removing the curse, it can just regen its health back to full as much as it wants, right?

You: that's seems to be the story.

Asuna: we just haft to stick to the plan, lower its HP down as much as you can until it reaches the red zone, once we have its final points near the end, Koharu will use the gem to transmigrate the curse on to herself and the curse will be lifted in 10 second. We must use that time to defeat the boss as quickly as possible, got it!

Assault team: YEAH!

Asuna: then let the Assault begin!

With all the members charging at the boss, the boss slaps the group away with its tail and begins slithering at high speeds throughout the room.

Klein: Damn! That thing is so fast!

Lind: not to mention that it's got thick hard skin.

You: Koharu and I have a plan for that.

Yuuki: whatever it is, it better work.

You: trust us. Ready?

Koharu: ready.

Koharu and I begin to rush towards the boss as it is distracted by the other players.

You: Keep the boss distracted, we need to coordinate the attack on the boss.

HDA tanks: YEAH!

With the boss scratching away at the tanks, the boss has no idea that we are getting near it.

You: Now, Koharu!

Koharu: HEAA! *she jumps high into the air*

The boss turns around and sees that Koharu is getting near to its face but it is already too late.

Koharu: HEAAA! *she slashes the boss face*

Nasya: GRAAAAAAARR! *the boss screeches as a red scratch mark shines on its face*

You: activate umbra armament stone!

With the purple orb I got from the 20th floor boss, a worm hole is summoned under the boss and eats its defense buff and turns it into a defense debuff.

Kirito: they lowered its defense! Now is our chance!

With the members launching their attacks at the boss, they manage to land some decent attacks as the defense debuff allowed the members to launch their attacks. Even so, the boss still showed no signs of holding back and blew away the members with a powerful wet attack from its mouth.

KoB members: WHOAAA! *they get blown away*

Nasya: HREAAAAAAA! *the boss begins to smash the ground with its attacks*

Liten: the boss is attacking with its claws, make sure to stay out of the land of fire and evade the claws at all costs.

With the boss clawing the entire room, we eventually managed to reform our formations and launch our attacks against the boss.

Mito: the boss is skin is as hard as a rock, even with the defense debuff it's going to be hard to land our attacks without getting hurt.

Lisbeth: if we can manage to make a counter attack, we might be able to land a critical attack.

Yuuki: even so, the boss is too fast and too slithery to even land a counterattack.

Silica: maybe I can help.

Sanya: what do you plan to do?

Silica: I have a plan, come on Pina!

Pina: Chirp!

Silica: (You!) I need your help!

You: on it!

With Silica running by my side, we both run towards the boss as it gets ready to land an attack.

Silica: try to parry its attack!

You: On it!

As the boss lowers its claw, I parry the attack giving Silica a chance to attack.

You: Switch out!

Silica: HEAAA! *she smashes the ground*

Using the water on the ground, the dagger creates a small wave that splashes the boss in the face, blinding him for a moment.

Silica: Pina!

Pina: Chirp!

Pina's mouth glows with a bright blue flash and from it a powerful breath of blue fire shoots towards the boss and causes the boss to be shocked as a magic spell is fired at its body.

Nasya: RAAAAAAAAASSS! *the boss backs away*

Shivata: Whoa! What was that?!

Leafa: It was a magical attack... now I understand, since the boss is invulnerable to physical attacks, a magical attack can deal a large amount of damage.

Asuna: this is our chance! We must attack now!

With the entire members of the Assault team landing their attacks, we all manage to drain the boss' HP down to two health bars.

Kirito: we managed to bring its HP down to two health bars, we are getting close to the red zone!

Sanya: don't get cocky, we still need to deal with another attack that can turn the tides around!

You: don't worry, I think we are just about ready. Koharu!

Koharu: right!

We both grab our hands tightly and our palms begin to shine bright platinum light.

You and Koharu: Here we… GO!

With both of our sword skills intact, we slash through the boss multiple times as red scratch marks appear all over the boss' body. The scratch marks glow brightly on its body and in just a matter of seconds…

"KUURPOOOOW!"

The marks detonate all over its body and the boss loses half of its second HP bar, at the same time weakening it even further.

Mito: the pure combination of sword skills!

Yuna: they landed an opening, let's beat it while we have the chance!

All the members continue to land their attacks once again as they finish off the second HP bar, now it only had one left.

Klein: Alright, were at the last HP bar, keep it up people!

Nasya: HISSSSS! *the boss swirls in circular motion*

The boss spins around the area the Assault team members were standing in and knocks out some of the KoB and HDA members.

Koharu: we are almost there, we can't give up!

Asuna: We'll now begin the final stage of our strategy!

You: Wait… everyone get out of the way!

The boss slithered across the room while trying to gain momentum and then jumped high into the air and took aim at the water below us.

Nasya: RAAAAAAGH! *the boss smashes the ground*

The impact of the boss's body causes a huge wave to hit us as it's big attack knocks us down.

Klein: Whoa! That was close! Everyone okay?!

Agil: Arghh! Just barely, but that big wave it uses as its attack is bad news!

Yuuki: Hmph! *she dashes towards the boss*

Asuna: Yuuki! What are you doing?!

Yuuki: *her sword glows a purple light* EEAAAAAAA! *she stabs the boss four times* I am not done! *she stabs the boss six more times*

With a stomp to the ground, her sword lights up with a purplish star forming at the tip of her blade.

Yuuki: HEAAAAAAAAAAA! *she stabs the boss one more time*

"KUURPOOOOW!"

Asuna: Aaa!

Assault team members: Igh!

Everyone covers their eyes and face as a powerful usher of wind is blown on our faces, as a result, the boss's HP is on the red zone.

Asuna: what was that?!

Mito: if I remember correctly, I think she used that same technique on the 27th floor boss.

You: it took eleven attacks for the ability to take place, it was like an 11 attack combo.

Argo: the boss is weekend out, this our chance!

Lind: Everyone, attack!

With all the members riling up and dashing towards the boss, they begin landing their attacks as the points of the boss's HP begin to lower down little by little.

Yuna: Come on, let's keep going! *she plays her wooden lute*

With the chords playing a beautiful tune, buff cursors start appearing on our icons and slightly increase our HP by a quarter.

Nautilus: Nice *he twirls his sword* Here we go!

Nautilus begins slashing the boss all over its body as his own body moves at an abnormal rate and manages to knock down the few remaining points of the boss's health.

Nasya: GRAAAAAARRGG!

Asuna: its time!

Koharu: *she grabs the gem and points it at me* Transmigrate!

With the gem glowing brightly and the mark disappearing from my neck, we now have 10 seconds to defeat the boss.

Leafa: commencing count down! 10!

Nasya: RAAAAAAAAUUUR! *the boss leaps high up in the air*

Lind: it's preparing a second wave!

Asuna: watch out!

The boss smashes the ground and a second wave of attacks comes rushing straight at us.

Liten: NO! *she gets in front of the wave*

HDA tanks: Tanks! Support her!

At that moment, all the HDA and KoB tank members start to form a line of shields and the wave hits them with tremendous force.

Tanks: GAAAAAAGH!

Leafa: 9…! 8…!

Liten: GO! WE'LL…. HOLD OFF… THE ATTACK!

The waves get bigger and stronger and all the tank members start to be pushed back as the waves push them with a very strong force.

Tank members: AAAARRGHH!

Agil: Stand still! *he says as he pushes them forward* everyone! Land a hand to the tanks!

Kirito: you heard him! Help the tank members and give (You) and Koharu an opening!

Nasya: GRAAAAAAUUU! *the boss prepares an attack*

Sinon: No you don't! *she fires an arrow at its eye*

Nasya: RAAAAAAARGG! *the boss gets taken back*

Sanya: HREAAAA! *she powers herself up with red energy* feel the power of the silver devil!

With her body powered by her sword, he forms an aura that surrounds the boss and adds a power, defense, and agility debuff.

Sanya: now is your chance!

You: Alright… everyone, thanks for your help… *I begin dashing towards the boss*

Sachi: Moonlit Black cats! Surround the boss and parry any and all attack so (You) can attack the boss!

Keita: You heard her! I am also allowing it!

Moonlit Black cats: YEAH!

With the moonlit black cats surrounding the boss, they get into position to try to protect me from any kind of attack the boss does.

Leafa: 7…! 6…! 5…! 4…! 3…!

Nasya: GRAAARRH! *the boss's moth begins to glow bright blue*

Sachi: NOW!

Moonlit Black cats: REAAAAAARGH! *they smash the boss's mouth*

When they smash the boss's mouth, the attacks are canceled and I have a chance at the boss.

You: HEAAAAAAA! *I stab the boss's chest*

Nasya: GRAAAAUUUU! *the boss tries to fight back*

The boss starts to form scales as hard as rocks and starts to push my sword out of its chest.

You: Ghigh…!

Leafa: 2…!

You: No…!

As my strength begins to get weakened out, I feel my arm gaining some strength as I see the palm of someone trying to give me a hand.

You: What…?

Koharu: Don't worry! Just push through, I won't let you die! Believe in me… I'm your partner after all!

You: Igh… right!

With Koharu giving me a hand, we both push my sword deeper and deeper into the boss's chest and lightning begins to pour out of the stab wound.

You and Koharu: HEAAAAAAAA!

Leafa: 1…!

Mito: Igh… do you guys see that?!

Kirito: what are they doing?!

Yuna: is it just me? Or is their attack beginning to take form?!

Nautlius: yes, actually… it's like a shimmer of bright light is forming wings!

Lisbeth: are those feathers too?!

Sachi: it's a phoenix!

Assault team members: Whoooaaa!

You and Koharu: HEAAAAAAAAAAAA!

Nasya: GRAAAAAAAAUUUUUU—

"KUURPOOOOOOOW!"

Leafa: ZEEROOO!

…

…

…

…

You: *pant*…*pant* did… it work…?

…

…

…

The smoke begins to clear and at the top of the room, the congratulatory banner appears at the top, showing us that the boss has been defeated.

Congratulations!

Asuna: the boss isn't respawning…

You: the mark… it's not on Koharu's neck either…

Asuna: then that's it… WE DID IT!

Assault team: YEAAAAH!

Koharu: (YOU!) *she hugs me tightly* we did it! We actually did it! We both made it out alive!

You: I know… I am so glad! *I say as tears of joy drop from my face* your alive… you're still actually alive.

Koharu: I know!

With her heart full of happiness, she kisses me over and over and we hug each other with such happiness and relief.

Klein: (You)! *he runs and hugs me* you did it man! You actually did it!

Argo: so proud to see that you still got it.

Sanya: heh, not bad… but not that great either.

Sinon: oh come on, you know that's not true.

Sanya: Hmph! Whatever. *she says with a proud grin*

You: its thanks to you guys… no way we could have done this by ourselves.

Kirito: what matters here is that nobady died and with the mark gone, no one has to kill Koharu or (You). Things are back to normal.

Assault team: YEAH!

"Clap!"

"Clap!"

"Clap!"

Everyone: Huh?

As we all turn around… we are left in shock as four players emerge from the entrance with wide open grins and eyes thirsty for blood.

You: PoH…

PoH: well done… I really didn't expect you guys to actually avoid this death sentence but thanks to you guys, the boss has been defeated, which was the final step I needed in order to receive the skill… well, mostly.

Klein: You bastards! How did you escape the black iron palace?! And where are your other guildmates?!

Joohny Black: Oooh, they're here alright… they made such good pawns for us.

XaXa: it's time to get our revenge… *he says in a sinister hiss*

Lind: those are the top ranking members of Laughing coffin! What are they doing here?

Morte: relax, we are mainly here for them. *he points at us* this will be the greatest comeback laughing coffin will ever have! It's time that you all pay for all the humiliation you caused us!

Buxum: our leader has a plan… and this time, there will be nothing you can do to stop him!

Kirito: cut the crap! *he unsheathes the elucidator* we stopped you once, we can do it again!

PoH: *he grins malevolently* Oooh… you and what army? *he unsheathes a weapon from his back waist*

PoH grabs a knife that looks like a butcher knife with small human skulls on the other side of its edge and a black aura emerging from it.

You: is that a… butcher knife?

Koharu: the way it looks… it definitely looks like a murder weapon.

PoH: Aahh… this old thing? I found it when I was looking through some old chest near our old hideout, it said to be curse with a spell that can cut through even the sturdiest of chest plates. It may seem like a sword but it works as fine as a dagger. Due to its curse, the Mate Chopper grows weaker with every monster it kills… on the other hand, it grows in power with each player killed by its blade. This blade… the Mate Chopper! Thanks to this blade, I was able to kill all the members in my guild in order to receive the life sources I needed to complete the skill!

Everyone: WHAT?!

Klein: you killed your own teammates?!

Kirito: I knew you were psychotic serial killer, but it turns out I was wrong… YOU ARE OUT OF YOUR GODDAMN MIND!

PoH: HEHAHAHAHA! DO NOT WORRY, THEY'RE LIVES WILL NOT BE SACRIFICED FOR NOTHING, I WILL USE THEM TO SLICE EVERY NECK OFF OF YOU ALL!

Johnny black: but as he said, his awakening isn't ready just yet. He needs to take a few more lives in order to achieve the unique skill… and that why we're here.

XaXa: we just came to say good riddance to our best ol' palls.

Morte: it was fun trying to kill ya!

You: wait, your seriously going to give away your lives?! For revenge?!

Buxum: you got it all wrong. We are not sacrificing our lives… we are giving our lives in order to achieve something.

You: what's the difference?! Your-your… YOU'RE ALL INSANE!

LafCof members: HEHAHAHAHA! HAHA! HAHA! AHAHAHA!

Kirito: they're insane… they really mean business this time!

PoH: Now… let us get to the rising of the curtains, shall we?

XaXa: Lets…

Johnny Black: Welp! It was fun ya'll, I will see you all in hell! HEHAHAHAHA—GAGH!

Johnny black gets stab by PoH's weapon the mate chopper and in an instant, his HP drains down to zero.

Johnny black: HEHAHA! AHAHAhahaha… *he disappears into blue trickling polygons*

The polygons scatter through the air but instead of vanishing away, the polygons head straight for PoH knife.

XaXa: don't let me out of the fun! *he gets in front of PoH and turns to see us* I hope you all can enjoy this last victory! Cause hell is comin' your way! HEHAHAHA-GAGH!

Red-eyed XaXa gets stabbed on the back as the mate chopper slashes through its back and in an intant, his HP drops to zero.

XaXa: Ghiigh… sweet freedom… *he disappears into blue trickling polygons*

Agil: oh my god…

Koharu: Igh! *she hides her face in my chest*

Buxum: hey Yuna.

Yuna: Huh?

Buxum: I may have never said this, but i am a fan of yours… I love to hear your music, they take my nerves away. Sad to know that I won't be able to hear them again… you know what… back in the 40th floor, when I was planning on killing you and your weak ol' boyfriend back there… maybe I would have kept you alive, and make you sing for me so that I could enjoy the beautiful melody you make with your lute… all to myself! Hehahaha! *he says as he licks his lips*

Yuna: Hrmm! *she hides in Nautilus chest*

Nautlus: leave her alone! Asshole!

Buxum: Aww, ain't that sweet. Don't worry… she won't need to worry about that anymore… hehehHAHAHAHA-GAGH!

With the same way Johnny and XaXa died, his HP drops down instantaneously and his body disappears into blue trickling polygons.

You: Damn it… damn it! This is insane! Stop this PoH!

PoH: HEHAHAHAHA!

It's no use, he's not listening to a word I'm saying, it's like he's completely left his body and a demon is controlling him.

Morte: looks like I am next… *he gets in front of PoH and turns to see us* there is something you all must know… you all know about the incidents that happened during the beta test?

You: Incidents?

Mito: what could he be talking about?

Kirito: there were a lot of incidents, I am not entirely sure.

You: wait a minute… Are you talking about the incidents that occurred when the players visited the forest only to come back in the town of beginning with a horrified look on their faces? They said that a mysterious player was stealing and killing their stuff like a vicious criminal.

Morte: Bingo! Those incidents… I AM RESONSIBLE FOR 'EM!

Everyone: *they all gasp and take a few steps back*

Morte: that's right… I was a beta tester… AND I WAS PLAYER KILLER RIGHT FROM THE START! Its always nice to see someone suffer like they made me suffer. No one knows my pain, so I MAKE THEM SEE IT! (You), know exactly what I am talking about…

You: I may have committed murder once upon a time… but I am nothing like you, I grew to become someone strong, and you Morte… you ruined your life… you ruined everything… now there is nothing I can do to help you…

Morte: HEHAHAHA! Well look at that, looks like I took some time to talk to you guys, I'm back at it... old habits really do die hard, oh well… it was nice meeting you all, now it's time that you all see WHAT LAUGHING COFFIN IS ALL ABOUT! HEHAHAHA! AHAHAHA-GAGH!

With the last remaining member getting stabbed, the polygons fly to PoH knife and then the knife begins to glow a bright shade of black and purple aura.

PoH: Hehe… OH YEAH! Now the real fun begins…

"SWOOOSH"

As PoH prepares his blade, the aura surrounding his blade emerges with his body as the hood from his black leathered poncho slips back and his entire face is revealed.

PoH: HEHAHAHA! IT'S SHOWTIIIME!

You: Damn it… everyone get out of here now! He wants me not you! Run!

KoB member: Igh… *he trembles in fear* oh this is useless *he teleports away*

Just then, everyone begins to teleport away as fear overcomes them and I am left alone facing PoH one on one.

You: you've really done it this time PoH. You've caused so much trouble already, you need to stop this!

PoH: oh I haven't even begun to cause trouble! You really think you can defeat me?! I am immortal now! Of course I am still dying to see what you can do… come on my idol… HIT ME WITH EVERYTHING YOU GOT! *he leaps towards me*

You: Igh…

Time moves by slowly and I can see that mate chopper getting close to my neck but I manage to grab my sword just in time to block the attack

"SHWWING"

You: GAGH! *I get pushed back by the impact* how is he so strong?!

PoH: Hah! Now this is nice! It feels like I have actually become a real demon! Lop off my head, plock out my heart, it doesn't matter! That might be enough to kill a human but it will take more than that to kill a demon!

You: (he is not even denying it… it's like he actually believes he's a demon…)

PoH: HEAAA!

You: IGH!

"CASHIIING!"

With both of our sword hitting impact, the dark aura surrounding the mate chopper surround my blade as I slowly become weaker and weaker, it was like he was draining the energy off of me.

PoH: Ohoho, look at you, always so selfless. You poor thing, there no one who can help you now.

You: As long as the others are safe… I am more than capable of taking you down…!

PoH: is that so? Well I would love to see it! I wanna see if a mere human is capable of standing up to an actual demon!

?: HEAA!

PoH: what the—? PUGH!

Just then, PoH gets pushed away as he rolls around in the floor by an incredible force.

Koharu: I am not letting you hurt (You)!

You: Koharu? What are you doing here? I thought I told you to—

Koharu: you seriously believe I will just leave you to deal with PoH all by yourself?! I am your partner… wherever you go, I go.

Sanya: that counts for me as well.

Asuna: that's how we all feel…

Kirito: there is no way I am letting him kill my best friend, you can rely on us (You).

Klein: yeah! What K-dawg said!

Nautilus: I still have a debt to repay you after saving helping me save Yuna… its time I repay that debt.

Yuna: you helped me get my instrument even though it was so risky… now it's my turn to do the same.

Leafa: He hurt so many innocent people, damn me if I sit back and let that happen to someone else. I will use all the power I have to end evil!

Lind: you helped me and my guild countless of times (You). What kind of friend would I be if I didn't return the favor now?

Yuuki: yeah, I with them all the way! You can count on me for anything (You)!

Argo: heh, I am not that much of a fighter… but I can't just sit back and let you all deal with this buffoon *she prepares her battle claws* so let's beat this sucker!

Everyone: YEAH!

Everyone I knew were riled up with their weapons at hand, ready to stand by and support me on this fight….

PoH: HEHAHA! What a show?! Am I in the movies or something?! Well then, spoiler alert! The protagonists won't be able to save the day this time! You're gonna die, fade into black and there will be no credits! The end, curtains closed.

Argo: I'll give ya'll a special tip on the house! Drain his HP to zero as many times as you can! That is all! Let's do this!

Everyone: YEAH!

With everyone attempting to attack PoH, he somehow manages to evade every single attack as his speed increases at an abnormal state. He manages to knock down Lisbeth, Silica and Shivata with a single blow.

PoH: HAHAHA! You can't stop me! I am A DIABOLICAL KILLING MACHINE!

Sachi: HEAAA! *she attempts to hit PoH*

With her spear aiming at long distances, PoH manages to avoid the attack as he swifts his body at high speeds and then kicks Sachi away with his leg.

You: wide open! HEAAA! *I manage to stab him*

Surpisingly, his HP drops to zero within a single blow.

You: huh?

PoH: Huh?

Just then, a notification pops in asking PoH if he wanted to revive.

PoH: heh, what a stupid question *he presses yes*

In an instant, his HP is back to full and more power surges through his body as his sword begins to glow bright red and continues to power up PoH.

PoH: HEHAHAHA! You see?! You can't kill me no matter what you do!

Argo: correction demon… we are already winnin'. Keep it up people!

Everyone begins to dive in for the attack as they all manage to drop PoH's HP a second time.

PoH: ha! Imbeciles! *he presses the yes button and restores his HP* I am immortal! You can't beat me!

You: HEAAA! *I attempt to hit PoH*

PoH manages to block my attack with his sword and when I take a closer look at his sword, I can see that it's changing shape. It went from being a normal sized butcher knife to a knife that seemed to have the blade as big as an axe.

PoH: really? You all really think you can beat me?

Kirito: are you okay, (You)?! Don't worry, there must be a way out of this!

PoH: Aww, look at that. Best buddies worried for each other. But it doesn't matter how many of you puny humans are, numbers don't matter anymore!

You: HEAAA! *I punch through his stomach*

Dropping his guard, I manage to pierce his stomach as a fist forms through his body and his HP drops to zero, but instantly recovers with the press of a button.

PoH: You all are really nuts, you know that?! How are you able to risk your lives for such a weak woman like her! *he says pointing at Koharu* I had a plan… A FULL SOLID PROOF PLAN AND YOU JUST WENT UP AND DESTROYED IT TOO!

You: just goes to show that your plans are pathetic.

PoH: don't you go and give me all that high and mighty talk! I JUST WANTED A WAR TO BE UNLEASHED AND WATCH YOU ALL KILL EACH OTHER FOR THE SAKE OF YOUR LIVES!

Agil: the fact that you even admit it makes you even more insane.

Yuuki: there is no way I am killing a life just for the sake of another… I will protect any and all life from dirty sick people like you!

PoH: Oh just shut up! Kids like you don't even know what it truly meant to fight for your life! You're willing to toss away your own lives just to save someone else's in this stupid little game?! That's the definition of insanity!

You: couldn't have said it better myself, we are in a game! But we can't defeat all on our own! We made it this far thanks to the bonds we have made during our time in here and now… *my sword lights up* were gonna use them to defeat you! HEAAA!

With my sword glowing a bright yellow aura, I begin attacking PoH with all my might as our blades clash with each other over and over again.

PoH: oh don't make me laugh! Your nothing but weak useless humans who can't even take a life for the sake of your own! Do you think you possibly have the power to help someone?

You: Yes… because I'm a human.

PoH: Ha! Don't make me laugh! None of that is worth a single cent! Its seems you all really are just brainless optimists.

You: Well… a demon like you wouldn't understand it… you know, I always wonder what the P, O and H meant in your name tag, but I think I get what it means… it stands for Prince of Hell.

PoH: hehehe… that's right… it does mean that. I am the prince of hell itself… a son close to Satan… a prince of darkness… a prince of flames and despair. My name is Vassago, a demon described in the art of Geotia as being a prince of hell who leads twenty-six legions…

Just then, the aura around him begins to grow larger and larger until it is covering almost the entire room.

PoH: I have been watching you ever since I killed that NPC the other day… I just don't get it… you didn't kill that woman… and nobody succeeded in taking her life… afterwards no one wanted to kill her anymore… I am getting sick of it… this time… someone will die… AND I WILL MAKE SURE OF IT!

With PoH getting all powered up by the unique skill he has, he lunges towards me and begins landing critical hits to me and my sword.

Koharu: (You!) *she kicks PoH away*

PoH: Arrghhsss! *he hisses and runs straight at us*

Mito: No you don't!

Using her scythe abilities, Mito fights PoH one on one and with incredible movement and reflexes, Mito manages to land multiple attack while also avoiding PoH's attacks.

Silica: Take this! *she stabs PoH on the back*

PoH: why you little!

Silica: Hup! *she back flips away* Pina!

Pina: Chirp!

Pina fires breath that seemed like bubbles that hit PoH over and over again, causing his HP to drop down to zero but is instantaneously recovered.

PoH: ARGGGH!

Agil: EEEAAAAAA! *he smashes PoH with his axe*

With Agil dropping from a high jump, he smashes PoH with his axe and causes a large impact in the area he was standing on, thus making his HP drop down to zero once again.

PoH: why you…!

Liten: Hmph! *she block the attack* Switch!

Shivata: HEAAAA! *he slashes PoH two times* switch!

Lind: YEAAAA! *he stabs PoH*

With Lind delivering a devastating blow, PoH's HP drops to zero once again but manages to recover quickly.

Sanya: if you say you are a demon… *her body powers up with her blade* then let's see just how well you manage with a devil… *she says as her eyes glow red*

PoH: too bad, girl. I could have used you in my team!

Sanya: not gonna happen hot shot!

Sanya and PoH fight it out as they both clash their swords to each other but every attack is just block by the other.

Klein: HEAAA! *he unleashes a zedku Katana sword skill*

Lisbeth: HEAAA! *she punches PoH with her mace*

PoH: Puugh! *he falls down*

Asuna: EEAAA! *she stabs PoH with the Lambent light*

PoH: GAGH! *his HP drops to zero* you fools… *he recovers his HP and stands up* HREAAAAA!

Sinon: Hmph! *she fires an arrow to his head*

PoH: GAAAAAAGH! *he takes the bow out of his eye*

Argo: MREAAAOW! *she scratches PoH with her claws*

PoH: GAAAAGHRR!

Yuuki: Take this! *she stabs PoH four times*

PoH: PUGHAA!

Yuuki: HEAAA! *she stabs PoH six more times* hreeeaaAAAAAAA! *she stabs PoH one more time*

"KUURPOOOOW!"

PoH: *pant*…*pant* *he recovers his HP* I must admit… you guys are doing better than I imagined…

You: and there is still more where that came from… Activate healing armament stone! Area shape!

With the green orb I got on the 35th floor glowing brightly, all of everyone's HP bars begin to rise to the max along with a battle heal icon buff.

PoH: hehe… I really am curious as to what that blade is… but unlike you, I like to use the battlefield as source for my weapons.

You: what do you mean by— *he throws sand into my eyes* GAAGH! My eyes!

PoH: *he punches me away*

You: GAGH! *I fall down with a punch mark on my face*

PoH: Hah! Your next Mr. Backswordsmen!

PoH then leaps towards Kirito and Kirito tries to block PoH's attacks. With PoH and Kirito clashing their swords in the room, Kirito has a hard time trying to avoid his attacks.

Kirito: Igh… what is this?! He got so much stronger out of nowhere! It's like he's a different person! Not to mention that the aura imitating from his body is not giving any normal vibes… it's like… is he an actual demon?!

PoH: HEHAHAHAHA!

Kirito: we can't fight him like a regular monster or boss! We must come up with some other way!

PoH: HEHAHA! You bet you can't! You cannot DEFEAT ME!

PoH proceeds to kick Kirito away and then leaps towards Asuna.

Asuna: *she gasps*

Koharu: Asuna! *she steps in and defends Asuna*

You: Koharu!

With very little time to react, I leap in front of Koharu and Asuna with my sword glowing a bright yellow aura.

You: HEAAAAA!

PoH: *our swords clash and PoH gets pushed back* GAAAAAGH! *he falls down*

You: Wh-whoa!

PoH: Igh… wha… what was that?! How did you do that?!

You: Hmm…

I remember that D.I.L had a similar power surging through her and when my sword got close to the power, it started to react in a strange way...

You: Hmm… *I let the power surge through my sword* alright… let's do this!

The yellow aura surround my body as my sword and body become one.

Klein: Whoa! Is that his rush recollection skill?

Kirito: it can't be… I've never seen it do that before.

You: Hmm… *I slash through PoH's body*

With the yellow aura slashing his body, it creates a critical reaction to PoH's body as his aura grows weaker.

PoH: WHA…?! How are you doing this?! STOP THIS RIGHT NOW!

You: Alright… let's do this, swallow it up Esper! HANNIEL!

With a shout of the name, a large void of yellow aura surrounds PoH and swallows all of his powers up.

PoH: WHA?! WHAT DID YOU DO?!

Agil: His powers have been sucked away!

You: It's time to end this! HEAAAA! *I stab PoH on the chest*

PoH: GAAAAAAGH! *his HP drops to zero* Gaaagh… Hehehe… it doesn't matter what you do… even if my strength is zapped I can just regain it again *he presses the yes button the notification screen* and I can always just come back to lif— *a red particle slashes out of his body* Gaagh…! Wha… what is happening…?!

At that moment, his entire body begins to deform in a very gross way that makes him look like a total freak of nature. His arms warped all over his body, his eyes bleeding blood, and his face was completely disfigured.

You: Koharu, I don't want you seeing this *I say as I grab Koharu's head*

PoH: Gaarrglll… what is… happening to me…?!

Argo: looks like you reached your limit…

PoH's HP continues to lower down all on its own and the revival option appears on PoH's screen and he has a hard time moving his body.

PoH: *he gasps for air* Gagh… your… asking me… if I want to revive… that should be obvious… *he presses yes*

As soon as he presses yes, more invisible slashes scratch his body and deforms his body in a very gruesome way.

PoH: GAAGH! BRAAAARRRRLLLLAAAAA!

Yuna: Hrmm! *she hides her face in Nautiluses chest*

Lisbeth: Hrmph! *she holds her mouth* I think I'm gonna be sick…

Silica: this is too scary! *she says as she covers her face*

Kirito: his body is exploding from the inside… it's also making him lose his form. It's like the spell itself is destroying his body…

Argo: that's right… (You), Koharu, remember when I showed you about that rare skill of immortality? Well, I did some more diggin' about that quest after ya two headed back, just in case. That NPC didn't just try to stop ya from gainin' the immortality skill for some kinda flavor reason. That was a legit warning. I followed the thread all the way to the end and that's when I realized that skill was a trap. It's there to punish anyone willin' to sacrifice others to become immortal or anyone who'd stop to usin' a cheap cheat skill like that. Any gamer would see that there is more to it then it seems. Unluckily for him, he's no gamer. He was unable to see the big picture. The ability was so dangerous that the boss didn't end up usin' it either...unfortunately...he's not smart enough to realize that...

PoH: GAAAAARGGHAAA! SOMEONE HELP ME! I CAN ACTUALLY FEEL THE PAIN!

You: looks like this is hell for you… I tried you know… lord knows I tried to help you, PoH… you just didn't want to listen… now, you are suffering for your sins… its over for you, PoH.

PoH: RAAAAGH! GA-GA-GA-GAAAAGH! *he keeps pressing yes on the revival option*

Klein: His dialogue box keeps giving him the option to revive at his own free will… but it's not going to help him anymore…

Argo: congrats. You were able to become immortal. Now, you must suffer those blades inside your bones and flesh cuttin' ya up for the rest of yer life. You're just stuck makin' this choice over 'n' over.

PoH: Gaagh… I can't die… I'm a demon… I'm a god of death… I can't die to sum cheeky kids… hehe… I can't die… I won't die… hehe… that's right… I can live forever, hehe… *he waddles away with his body slashing him away*

Kirito: W-wait! Where are you going?!

We all begin to follow PoH as he waddles his way out of the room.

Kirito: PoH, stop this… you can't fight back, just give up and we'll take you to the black iron palace and find a way to remove that curse inflected on you.

PoH: Haaahaa… I can't die… I am immortal… that's right… I am a demon… I cause fear and death… I am a god… haahaha… *his body continues to slash his life away*

You: (the dialog box fails...his body shrinks and his HP bar depletes and recovers over and over again...it's like the system has completely rejected his existence.)

PoH: Hahaha… I am immortal… I am the prince of hell…

Koharu: he has just lost it… his mind is not even present anymore…

You: wait… PoH! Watch out! Your heading straight to a—

PoH: Khaa… haha… I am the prince of hell… *he falls down a precipice*

The figure of PoH continues to fall until complete blackness swallows him up and he can no longer be seen.

Kirito: So deep… there is no way to get out either…

You: a drop this high would defiantly kill anyone… but due to his skill of immortality, I don't think he will die… but I don't think we will be coming back either…

Koharu: I honestly don't know how to feel… he's gone… laughing coffin is over…

You: Well… not entirely… there is still that other member missing.

Kirito: Hmm? Other member?

You: yeah… the one who inflicted the curse on Koharu, Twilight I think was its name…

Mito: Oh yeah… now that I remember, she targeted Koharu specifically, but why was that?

Koharu: I don't know… I don't even know who she is.

"crack"

Just then, the sound of a rock cracking is heard nearby.

You: Hmm? *I turn around*

?: Igh! *the figure runs away*

You: there he is!

Klein: Let's go catch him!

We all begin chasing the mysterious figure begin running away through the labyrinth as he tries to get away using the walls and shortcuts.

You: you're not getting away! *I jump through the pillars using my speed*

As I jump through the pillars of the labyrinth, I eventually get near the figure and use the power of gravity to fall down and tackle him to the ground.

?: GAGH!

You: Hmm? Your voice seems to be female. Well it doesn't matter, you're not getting away after hurting my partner like that *I begin taking the hood off* now let's see who you are so I can remember your face in case you escape the black iron palace like the others. *I take off the hood*

?: Igh!

You: *I gasp and back away* No… it can't be…

Just then, the rest of my friends catch up when they see the mysterious figure lying on the ground in front of me.

Klein: (You), whats going on?

Asuna: who is she?

You: K… K… Kota…? *I say with wide open eyes*

Kota: It's… Twilight…

You: You… tried to kill my partner… why?

Twilight: Mmm… brother… *she passes out*

You: K-Kota? *I hold her* Kota? Kota? KOTA!

To be continued…