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?

35. Chapter 35

Chapter – 35

Rise of the Integral Factor – SAO integral factor

Todays the October 17th of 2024… it's been almost two years since this game of death began… I have been writing on this dumb diary for as long as I can remember… to anyone who is reading this, I hope that my words reach to you and take my words for consideration. Thanks for my lack of Japanese sometimes my words come out wrong or sometimes the line of the story doesn't make sense… damn, being bilingual can sometimes be a blessing and a curse…

Anyways, as I was saying, today is the October the 17th, many things have happened to get to this floor… I will start by listing the recent event that took place after floor 61. Floor 61 was the worst floor I have ever encountered, which is quite funny since I have faced horrible floors on my past adventures… however, while although it was the worst floor I have encountered, it was actually the most interesting on my journeys. For starters, it made my relationship with Koharu get stronger than it ever has before, I also know that I can rely on anyone when I need them, I can also count with the help of strangers if I must. Floor 61 was the floor that changed my life in this floor… especially with Heathcliff's nickname for me… the Integral Factor.

In the recent event on the 61st floor

You: and that about covers it… we were able to survive another floor with no casualties and also stopped Laughing coffin for good… my partner Koharu is also saved from the curse bestowed from the snake.

Heathcliff: I see… and everyone here was involved in the incident, am I right?

Asuna: Yes commander.

Heathcliff: I find it rather amazing. At the end of the day, you were able to withstand another moment of crisis where losses were inevitable and yet you managed to overcome this event and still managed to protect everyone… yes… that's what you are.

You: What is it commander?

Heathcliff: this isn't the first time you managed to overcome an event that had a rather dangerous outcome, you managed to turn the tides in the most critical of moments and it's all because they met you (You). Those who shouldn't have survived have survived because of you. Those who shouldn't have existed now exist because of you.

You: O-oh come on, commander. I am not that special.

Heathcliff: but you are special as both a gamer and a person. What seemed impossible has been made possible thanks to your guidance. It would seem that you are a being of singularity. A being that brings together all kinds of possibilities…

You are the integral factor…

Present moment

Ever since he nominated me that name, everyone in Aincrad has been calling me the Integral Factor. I honestly don't have any complaints, it is a pretty cool name, its better then green swordsmen. Now on to other matters, the deal with my sister.

A lot of questions ran through my head as I saw her face at first glance. Why was she here? Why did she partner up with PoH? Why was she with Laughing coffin? Why did she try to kill Koharu? How did she get here?

A few hours after completing the 61st floor

You: … Kota…

Asuna then comes out of the room.

You: Asuna, how is she?

Asuna: she's woken up… she wants to see you.

As I enter the room, I see Kota lying on the bed while staring outside of the window… I could tell that she was nervous.

You: Kota…

Asuna: *she leaves us as she closes the door*

You: it's just me, no one else.

Kota: I said… my name is Twilight.

You: Twilight, Kota. Does it matter? You are still my little sister… and as your big brother, I want to know… why are you here?

Twilight: *she sighs* I came to get you back…

You: Why did you partner up with PoH?

Twilight: he said that he would help me get stronger…

You: Why were you with Laughing coffin?

Twilight: they said that they would help me…

You: how did you get here?

Twilight: I used a device called the Amusphere, a hardware that is close to a Nervgear…

You: *I sit down beside her* why did you attack my partner?

Twilight: … I knew you wouldn't come back with her around… and the reason you left was because of her… she took my own brother from me… do you have any idea of how hurt I was when you left again? The first day when you got trapped… I was scared to death… I didn't know if you were okay or even alive and I couldn't stand not knowing… do you even consider my feelings? *she turns around with tears on her eyes* SHE TOOK EVERYTHING FROM ME! *she yells angrily*

You: Kota…

Twlight: what's worse is that you did everything to protect and still managed to keep her alive… now I see that you care more about her then your family…

You: Kota, I-

Twilight: Just go… just leave me alone *she says as eh buries her face on her pillow*

Without much to say, I leave the room…

A few minutes later

Koharu: (You), how is she?

You: She's my sister, she will be okay.

Sanya: Okay, you better start talking. Why in the world would your own sister come all the way to SAO just to try and kill your partner?

You: Well, she said it was because of…

I then proceed to explain everything she just told me.

Klein: Dude, I get it, but… everyone is suffering because of SAO, she isn't the only one.

Agil: as much as I hate to say it, he's right. Your sister really overreacted.

You: Well… she's my sister, so I know its way more.

Argo: what ya mean?

You: I never mentioned this to anyone but I think it's best if you all know.

Lisbeth: about what?

You: about what happened with my sister…

Everyone: Hmm?

You: before I got adopted by the family, Kota was an only child and she used to be very happy at such a young age… but everything changed on a very bad night…

A few years ago before SAO

Kota was only a toddler when it happened… she and her parents were driving home after a long heated night of work… her parents were fighting… very bad…

Kota's Mom: Seriously, we got bills to play and rent to cover and you are just going on wasting our money with alcohol!

Kota's Dad: Would you just shut up and leave me alone! I am working my ass late at night to make enough money for you two and this is how you treat me! So what if I use the money on a bit of drinks, I need to relax too!

Kota's Mom: Your daughter should be your top priority, there she is terrified of seeing us fight like this… I married you because I love you and I still do… all I ask is that you look at your daughter…

Kota's Dad: *he sighs and turns to look at her* Honey…

Young Kota: Yes dad… *she says all scared*

Kota's Dad: I am sorry you had to see all this… I am very sorry for being a lousy father… you have no idea of how much you mean to me… I know you need me but I can promise you that a time will come in where someone will need you the most. Right now, I need you to be strong. There is gonna be a bunch of things that are going to be too horrible for you to bare, but if you keep fighting for what you want, you will have it.

Young Kota: You really think so, Dad?

Kota's Dad: I am sure of it.

Young Kota: Something like… like a big brother?

Kota's Dad: *he chuckles*I am afraid it's too late for that darling, you are going to be the older sister here, but if you keep fighting—

Kota's Mom: HONEY, LOOK OUT!

"TIRES SCREECH"

"CRAAAASH!"

…

…

…

"SIREN… SIREN…"

Doctor: I am sorry to say that he didn't make it…

…

…

…

Random Woman: she really lost her father?

Random woman 2: things are going to be tough for that little girl…

…

…

…

Young Kota: Mom… why are you crying…? And where's daddy?

Kota's mom: Oh sweetie… he's… in a better place now…

Young Kota: but he's in that box… is he going to be happy in that box?

Random man: let us begin the burial!

Men with shovels begin to through dirt at the grave.

Young Kota: W-wait! My dad's in there, someone get him out!

Kota's mom: *she holds her* I am sorry darling… *she says in tears*

Young Kota: M-Mom! What are you doing?! My dad need to go to work tomorrow! Someone help him! *she yells in tears* No! Dad! Dad! DAD!

…

…

…

She blames herself for what happened… she lost her grandmother a while back and she couldn't recover from that… everywhere she go, she would just hear the rumors about what happened with her dad, the kids at her kindergarten made fun of her and she hardly had any friends… she felt alone in the world. She and her mother would visit the place where the accident took place to commemorate the memory of her father. One day she just couldn't take it and took off while walking slowly, she didn't even notice the truck turning to her at high speeds…

"HONK-HOOOONK"

Kota's Mom: Oh my gosh, someone help her!

Kota: Huh? *she turns around*

By the time she noticed, the truck was already approaching…

Kota: *she gasps*

?: LOOK OUT!

She is pushed away and the stranger takes the hit. With her life being saved, she ran back to her mother with eyes filled with tears and the boy who saved her life was knocked out with blood coming out of his body.

Kota's Mom: Oh my gosh, someone call an ambulance…!

Present moment

You: And that's how we met… after hearing the news that she would be getting a new big brother, it was like her life totally changed. She was smiling, having fun and getting over the accident about what happened with her father. She grew to accept it and grew to become someone independent of her own self-aware.

Asuna: and it was because she met you… right?

You: Yeah… she grew with knowing and believing I was her brother and I didn't want to tell her that I was a step brother, so we were basically raised as brother and sister. Everything was fine as the years went by… but then this game happened…

Kirito: and that's when everything changed…

You: Yup… the family that took me in has already suffered enough as it is, I can't imagine how our mother must be feeling right now.

Koharu: But… I still don't get why she wanted to kill me…

You: It may be because of me…

Koharu: what do you mean?

You: Remember when I passed out and my body disappeared from SAO? I told you all I came back from the real world, right?

Everyone: yeah…

You: Well, I might have left without consulting my sister… she was really heartbroken when she heard that I was coming back. If that wasn't enough, she know that we aren't actually brother and sister, which made her even madder… I told her that I needed to come back because I needed to save everyone from this death game… but most of all, I needed to get back because of you, Koharu…

Koharu: Mm…

You: she knew that you were the reason I needed to get back and because of her father's words of fighting for what she wants… she must have taken it very seriously…

Sinon: So she enter SAO to take her out and bring you back home?

You: I know, it was stupid of her, even I will say that much… but please, don't hold a grudge against her, despite everything she is still my sister and now she is trapped in SAO with us… there is no way she will survive out there on her own, not to mention that her cursor is orange, anyone will take her as a Pkiller and swipe her life away.

Klein: relax bro, we never said that she was never invited.

Asuna: She's your sister (You). She has more than a right to be with us… especially with you.

Everyone: *they all nod in agreement*

You: Everyone… I seriously can't ask for better friends… I can't thank you enough.

Koharu: (You)… if it's not too much to ask… can I go see your sister?

You: Hmm? Oh, sure…

After that, I took Koharu to Kota's room.

You: "Knock" "Knock" Kota… its me… I brought Koharu, she wants to speak with you.

…

…

You: I am taking that as a yes *I open the door*

Koharu: *she enters the room first* Kota was it?

Twilight: its Twilight… and why are you here?

Koharu: forgive me Twilight, but your brothers has told me so much about you…

Twilight: Oh, so what now? You're gonna try and pal us up? Just because he told you about me, doesn't mean you know me.

Koharu: You're right, so let's get to know each other…

Twilight: I don't understand you, I tried to kill you, now you want to befriend me?

Koharu: A lot of people tried to kill me, that doesn't necessarily mean I hate… but I font like them either… but you, your family of (You) and he's my lover, so that makes you my family too.

Twilight: Lover…?

Koharu: and I would love it if we—

Twilight: No, no, no, no-no-no-no, NO! No, no, no, no *she gasps in for air* NOOOOHOHOHO! *she gasps in for air* NOOOOHOHOHOOO! No!

You: Alright, Kota you're taking things a bit too far…

Koharu: whats wrong?

Twilight: A-ahem… I am sorry about that. *she gets out of the bed* if what you are saying is true… then I guess I would haft to thank you for being so nice for my brother *she says as she makes a small bow* I did see you two together and I had my suspicions… I am sorry for causing you trouble *she says in a slight annoyed tone*

Koharu: Aww, that's sweet. It's nothing, really.

Twilight: don't breath into it, I am just being polite… at any rate… Brother! *she says in a cheerful tone* I am just so glad to have found you! You have no idea of how worried I was!

Koharu: Uh, is it just me or did her mood actually changed?

You: Don't worry *I say as I try to release her grip* that's a sign that she is okay.

Twilight: Brother, if what she is saying is true then please tell me that it is just in game or are there others beside her?

You: Kota, stop don't be rude.

Koharu: Wow, you really love your brother, huh?

Twilight: what do you mean by that? *she says in a serious tone* of course I love him, its normal for brothers to love each other.

Asuna: "Knock" "Knock" Hey, uh… I hope we are not interrupting.

Kirito: We came to see if you guys were alright and…

Silica: your sister doesn't seem dangerous as I thought she would be.

Twilight: are these your friend's big brother?

You: yes, they are and—

Twilight: Hello! I am Ko-I mean Twilight, (You's) little sister! I hope we can get along! *she says with an innocent smile*

Klein: Okay… any trace of suspense this girl gave was just thrown out the window.

You: So yeah… that's my little sister…

Silica: Oh, so your (You's) little sister. This might come as a surprise but he actually considers me as a little sister and I consider him as my big brother as well. I guess that means that you and I are sisters too!

Twilight: Really…? YAY! I always wanted a sister!

Silica and Twilight both hold hands as they both smile at each other.

Sanya: Huh, I thought this girl would be trouble… But I guess she's as young as she can be.

Sinon: it would appear so… but I don't think we should get too comfortable around her at first glance, we should still be cautious.

Koharu: If you like, I can be your big sister as well! *she says all cheerfully*

Twilight: Nooo… *she says in a very gloomy tone*

Koharu: Uh…!

Sinon: Or, you know… I think Koharu is the only one that would need to be cautious around her…

Koharu: Wh-why not?

Twilight: I may have accepted you as a person… But I will never accept that fact that you're my brother's lover!

Koharu: Huh?

Twilight: I've known him even longer then you, then any of you. You think you know him just because you've made such big adventures together? You don't even know each other in real life. I am his little sister and if anyone gets to be near him, IT'S ME!

Kirito: she sure has a temper when it comes to (You)…

Klein: Wait, is this one of those things they call a brother complex?

You: but I don't understand, Kota. You seemed to be very happy when you found out I was talking to a girl on my phone the other day and it just so happens that the girl is right there. *I say as I point to Asuna*

Twilight: that was different, that was in real life and I didn't know we were step siblings, but now that I know, I won't accept it… *she breathes in* NOBODY GETS TO BE MY BROTHERS LOVER BUT ME!

Everyone: …

…

…

…

Everyone: What…?!

You: (Kill me now…) Alright Kota that is quite enough. *I karate chop her head*

Twilight: Ow!

You: It's bad enough that you get a bit carried away back at home, I don't want anyone talking bad about in here as well. Just calm down.

Twilight: Brother… I just… I don't understand *she says in tears* all I am doing is looking out for you like a good little sister, don't you see that? She is just toying with you, if you stay with her you'll only get hurt—

You: Kota… I have a feeling that it's more than just that.

Twilight: Huh?

You: I've been taking care of you for such a long time now, do you really think I would fall for those words?

Twilight: Uh…

You: its not the fact that I am dating Koharu what bothers you… your scared because I might not look at you like the way used to.

Twilgiht: Mm… *she adverts my gaze*

You: Kota… *I hold her cheek* I don't know what's gonna happen in the future but no matter what happens you don't haft to fear because I will never leave you. It doesn't matter if I have a lover, it doesn't matter if I get married and it doesn't matter if I have a family of my own, you are and forever will be my little sister and no one can take you away from my heart… *I pat her head* so stop whining.

Twilight: I… I don't know what you're talking about, I just… *she says trying to hold back her tears*

You: come here, you want your big brothers arms to cry on? *I say as I extend my arms*

Twilight: Igh… *she runs to my arms*

With no will power to hold back her tears, she begins sobbing in my arms as she buries her face in my chest.

Sinon: so, is that just it?

Sanya: that's why she was on a rampage?

Lisbeth: she was whining?

You: yeah, she always gets like this… whenever something bothers her, she goes nuts… but I know better.

Twilight: Waaaaaah! A-a-a-aaaaah!

You: Oh, you always get like this… what am I going to do with you…? *I hold her shoulders* dry up those tears.

Twilight: *she sniffs and wipes away her tears*

You: Look, you're now in a dangerous place, SAO is not a game Kota. I would much like it if you go and live with the kids at the orphanage on the first floor, Sanya and I will be able to—

Twilight: No.

You: Huh?

Twilight: I am much aware that this game is dangerous… I saw PoH murder his own teammates in person, not only that but I was surviving out in the fields all on my own… it was scary… but even so, I still want to fight. Big brother, I can do it. I will train hard and one day I will be as strong as those on the front lines, I didn't tell you… but I'm a gamer as well, I know my way around these things.

You: Kota… if you are willing to come down this path, you might not see things as the way you used to.

Twilight: that is fine with me, as long as I can fight alongside you, I am more than okay.

You: Alright then… tomorrow, we will begin scouting out the fields to gather you some items and skill points, you need to survive for real, not like PoH taught you.

Twilight: I was wrong to trust him, I didn't know he was a serial killer… and I am sorry I teamed up with him.

You: don't worry about it… he tricked me as well. So, are you really willing to come and survive out on the front lines?

Twilight: Yes, I am.

Argo: Alrighty, I will help you out, yer brother came to me when he needed help, I will be glad to help his little sis as well.

Twilight: are you sure?

Asuna: Don't worry, she's a professional info broker, a lot of players went to her for desperate help.

Argo: and since yer new, I will give all my tips on the house!

You: now that is a deal, trust me I know.

Twilight: okay then, oh and brother.

You: Hmm?

Twilight: if it's not too much to ask… can you call me Twilight from now on? At least while were in the game. I am not Kota right now, so can you call me that instead?

You: Hmm… what the heck? Alright, Twilight.

Twilight: *she giggles cheerfully*

Koharu: then I will help you level up as well, you use daggers so I can be of big help! *she says all cheerfully*

Twilight: Wh-what?! No way! I can handle things myself, besides I already got help.

Koharu: the more the merrier, right? As your brothers lover it is my duty to help out his family members.

Twilight: Hrmm! *she says all angrily*

Koharu: Oh yeah, your brother and i are planning so many things when we go back to the real world, I would really love it if you were a part of it as well. I hope you will be there to cheer us on.

Twilight: Grr! No way! You can't take him, his mine! *she says as she holds me*

Koharu: Oh, well if that's the case, I guess I will just haft to adore both of you then! *she says with a smile*

Twilight: Grr! You are so nice and sweet and so beautiful and I HATE IT!

---

Talk about a drama queen… anyways, as time went by, Kota—I mean, Twilight has been grinding up her levels like crazy. Every day she would wake up and go out into the fields to hunt down some mobs to get experience points and Liz has been polishing her equipment so she has a pretty nice set of equipment. Spoiler alert, she eventually made it to a boss raid on floor 67, I was scared beyond relief there, I wasn't sure if she was even ready for a boss raid, but she keep insisting so I just gave in without any more to say, she still would have went besides my warning… but to my surprise… she not only survived the boss raid, she even saved two players lives from a deadly blow from the boss, if it weren't for her, we would have lost a few players on that boss fight and if that weren't enough, she is now an official member of the Assault team. Who would have thought that my own little sister would make it to the front lines in just a few months, nobody but me and my friends know that she is my sister and I don't think we will be bringing up the news any time soon, players would wonder on how she got there in such a short amount of time and there is also the fact on how she got to SAO, so for now we are keeping that part in the dark right now.

Moving on to other matters, we also had a Christmas even on Christmas Eve. According to my sources, in this case Argo, she mentioned that on the night on Christmas Eve the event boss was gonna appear under a giant tree somewhere in Aincrad. All the major guilds participated in the search, but each was looking for it for their own benefit. I on the other hand, wasn't interested on the event… but of course…

24th of December 2023

Twilight: Big bro, let's take on this Christmas event!

You: Twilight, I told you I have plans, I am going on a date with Koharu.

Twilight: You would much rather enjoy time with her then with your own little sister? *she says making sad puppy eyes*

You: Those eyes wont work on me. Look, I know your all excited because your now part of the Assault team but the front lines are dangerous, I've been surviving on them for quite some time now.

Twilight: that's why I am asking you to come with me! You wouldn't let your own little sister out there in the woods in the cold dangerous night now, would you?

You: *I sigh* fine, I'll go… on one condition.

Twilight: What?

You: We take the rest with us.

Twilight: the rest?

You: Koharu, Sanya, Sinon, possibly Asuna and any other of my friends. Oh, and Koharu is a guarantee.

Twilight: Uggghhh! Fine. *she says while pouting*

You: that's a good girl.

So without any options, I contacted the group and only a few could make it.

Koharu: I can't believe you invited me on this quest, Twilight.

Twilight: it was my brother's idea, not mine *she says adverting her*

Sanya: guess it's just us then.

You: Yeah, the others couldn't make it because they had other things to do. So anyway, while although they aren't here, I am sure we can handle it ourselves.

Koharu: Yeah!

You: Okay, so according to Argo's intel, the event boss should be appearing around a tree that represents that of a Christmas tree.

Sanya: where can we find a tree like that?

You: Hmm… well first we need to find a place where there are a lot of trees… hmm…

Koharu: what about the 35th floor? That forest is really big, bigger than any other forest in Aincrad.

You: that should be a good place to start. Alright, let's go to the 35th floor!

After that, we went to the forest of wondering on the 35th floor

You: Hmm… *I check around the area*

Twilight: Look, there is a gigantic tree over there!

We then see a massive tree in the distance as the snow reflects its shadow.

You: that must be the area. We should hurry, no telling when any other guild might find this place.

Sanya, Koharu and Twilight: RIGHT!

We all begin running towards the tree as the snowflakes hit our face and the tree gets closer and closer.

You: *pant* *pant* I think were being followed *I scrape the snow*

At that moment, the shine of players spawning in show up in front of us.

Klein: Sup.

You: Klein? Have you been following us?

Klein: Sure did, when I saw that you wanted to take on the event boss and the other of our friends said that they couldn't, I knew that you would take on it otherwise, so I decided to follow just to make sure your safe.

You: Wow, you're so dependable *I say sarcastically*

Klein: Hey, I am being serious here, I came because I was worried for you guys. What do you guys say? How about we team up and whoever gets the item first gets to keep it? Sound fair, right?

You: Well… I guess it can work out, how about—?

At that moment, the sound of footsteps crushing the snow approaches.

You: Huh? Kirito?

Kirito: Oh, I didn't expect to find you guys here.

You: you hear to take on the boss, aren't you?

Kirito: you know how it is.

You: And solo? You really are insane!

Kirito: I take things my own way, you know that.

You: *I sigh* alright, since we're all here, how about we all go take on the boss?

Klein: Sounds good! The tree is just on the other side of this forest, come on lets—

Before he can finish, more players spawn in the area, all eager to get to the tree first.

Klein: What the? It's the holly dragon alliance, they will do anything for a rare item.

You: Listen, we don't want any trouble! If I can speak with Shivata and Lind about this event then we can all get together to defeat it!

HDA member 1: Sorry, but were here under our own volition, Lind and Shivata are currently on a different quest.

HDA member 2: Were gonna be taking that rare item ourselves, so you would be wise to back off! *he says menacingly*

Furinkazan member 1: Klein, I don't think these guys will listen to anything we haft to say.

Klein: Your right… guess were gonna haft to deal with them, you guys go in ahead and defeat the event boss.

Kirito: Thanks… come on.

After that, we left Klein's guild to deal with the HDA members while we left to deal with the boss. After running a few minutes in the snow, we arrive to a tree glowing semi-blue platinum light on its leaves and branches.

Sanya: is this the place?

Koharu: it must be… this place is giving me a bad vibe…

Twilight: but where's the boss?

You: Shh… look…

I then point skyward as bells tinkle in the sky and a silhouette of a sleigh is seen flying over the tree and another silhouette of a shadow is seen jumping from sleigh and landing on the ground creating a huge usher of snow to be thrown in our faces.

Kirito: Igh… *he uses his arm to cover his face*

As the snow clears up, we see a big boss who seemed to represent Santa Claus... in the list, I think so, he had the red and white robe that he wears, the long white beard, and the traditional Christmas hat, for supposed. . The only difference was that he was skinny, his eyes were lazy and red, he was incredibly pale, and his voice sounded like floorboards creaking underfoot or simply a squeaky door moving so slowly.

You: Nicholas the Renegade

Twilight: I hears somewhere that Nicholas is another name for Santa clause, is that him?

You: Uh, no… he is not that crazy looking, I am not even sure if that's what Krampus would even look like.

Koharu: Krampus, who's that?

You: it's a long story, one I can't tell at the moment, let's focus on the boss for now.

Kirito: Right… *he unsheathes his sword* you guys ready?

Everyone: *we all prepare our weapons* Yeah…

Nicholas the Renegade: *it prepare an ax and a big bag with a blood stain*

Sanya: Ooohh… *she slowly walks up to it*

You: Sanya! What are you doing?!

Sanya: …ah…

Nicholas the Renegade: *it raises its ax*

You: Sanya! Get back!

Sanya: hmm… *she smiles*

Something about her seemed off, her expression is not of someone being ambushed… it's like she was completely hypnotized.

You: Sanya! Wake the fuck up! *I push her away*

With barely enough time, Nicholas sashes the area she was just standing on and finally she snaps out of it.

You: are you insane?!

Sanya: Wh-what happened?

You: you stayed frozen in place, you could have died back there! Do you have any idea of how scared I was?! *I yell angrily*

Sanya: I-I… I am sorry… *she says in a hurt tone*

You: (Whoa… this is the first time I ever see Sanya break down like that) O-okay… I am sorry for yelling, I was just scared.

Kirito: Hurry up and get out of there, the boss is preparing another attack!

Nicholas the Renegade: *the boss focuses on Twilight*

Twilight: Aaah!

Koharu: Twilight! *she pushes her out of the way*

As Koharu pushes Twilight away, Nicholas swings his ax a second time and it hits Koharu a second time which makes her stay in mid-air and making an opening for Nicholas to strike again.

Koharu: Aaaagh! *she is hit a few meters away*

Twilight: Koharu! *she runs to her* A-are you okay?

Koharu: Twilight… I am glad you worry about me…

Twilight: D-don't get the wrong idea, it's not like a care about you… but I couldn't let you die after saving me… *she says while adverting her gaze*

Koharu: Twilight… *she says with a smile*

You: alright Kirito, the girls seem to be in a bit of a pickle, guess it's up to you and me.

Kirito: Right… split it 50/50?

You: Heh, if that means getting half of the rewards, then yes *I say as I power my sword up*

Nicholas the Renegade: *he raises his axe once more*

You and Kirito: HEAAAAAAAAAA! *we both run towards the boss*

I don't remember much after that but I do remember Kirito and I defeating the boss with a lot of close calls, Nicholas had a lot of mobility for his giant arms and huge beard. But thankfully, we managed to defeat the event boss and received a rare item that is known as "The revival item" an item that can apparently revive a dead player, however it comes with a requirement, it needs to be inserted at the player within 10 seconds, if the requirements are not met then it will not work… a pity if I do say so myself but it can be useful sometime in the future, I let Kirito hold on to it and he can figure out what to do with it.

That same day, I had two special Christmas presents. The first one was from Koharu, it happened right after we defeated Nicholas the Renegade. She told me that she was going to cover my eyes and that I should follow her in the direction she pulled my arms. I was actually a little nervous because what kind of present was she planning on giving me?

Koharu: Okay, were almost there…

You: I really appreciate you giving me a gift but like, you didn't need to.

Koharu: Nonsense, you've done so much for me this whole year and now it's my turn to return the favor… aaaand were here. *she begins taking my blindfold off* alright…

As she takes my blindfold off, I could hear the giggles of people that seemed to be all female…

Koharu: 3… 2… 1…

Everyone: SURPRISE!

When I open my eyes, I see that Sanya, Lisbeth, Silica, Sinon, Yuuki, Argo, Mito, Twilight, Leafa, Yuna, Sachi, even Asuna and Mater were all gathered together cosplaying Santa.

You: Wh-whoa! Santa Cosplay?!

Koharu: I hope you don't mind, Asuna had them made and she wasn't sure if we would ever have a chance to make use them so we thought that this could be a good opportunity! This is not just any celebration… this is your birthday party!

You: My birthday! I totally forgot about my birthday, I am sixteen now!

Koharu: sorry if it's a bit late but I had to get all the items for this party.

You: don't worry about it, we celebrated your birthday a bit late as well.

Argo: Fer tonight, we are all yer personal Santa clause girls!

Yuuki: anything you want, Santa Yuuki will have it for you!

Asuna: I also made a Christmas buffet, you are free to eat anything.

You: W-well… I am flattered that you all would do this for me but shouldn't the other guys be involve in this too?

Asuna: I did contact them but they don't seem to be here yet, I wonder what they're doing.

Meanwhile, somewhere around the 35th floor

Klien: B-b-b-brrr! I-I-I-I-Is th-th-th-the storm o-o-over… *he says shivering*

Kirito: N-n-n-n-no… w-w-we should have left w-w-with (You) and the others instead of s-s-s-s-searching the area for any I-I-items the HDA members d-d-d-dropped and A-A-A-Asuna said that s-sh-sh-she wanted to meet us…

Klein: D-d-d-dang man… guess it w-w-w-will haft to be till n-n-n-next time…

Kirito: A-a-a-at least this cave I-I-I-Is sheltering us f-f-f-from the s-s-s-snow storm…

Klein and Kirito: Brrr….!

Meanwhile at the party

Sinon: Agil said that he had business to attend to and he couldn't make it.

Argo: Aw well, guess yer the only guy here.

You: I am not sure if I am comfortable with that…

Koharu: come on, it will be fun.

Twilight: I am Santa Twilight and I am here to grant any wish my big brother desires. What would you like big brother? A nice cooked meal? A nice warm bath? …Or perhaps… you-would-like—

You: DON'T YOU DARE FINISH THAT SENTENCE!

Everyone: Hahahaha!

So, even though the night was filled with a lot of drama, it was a nice Christmas Eve dinner with my friends. Later on, Kirito and Klein arrived to the party but… all of the girls were already past asleep. I, of course, saved a plate of food for them, they were very grateful for that.

Moving on to other matters, as the New Year's Eve arrived, I was already planning on arranging Koharu birthday party. This time I made sure to prepare anything, my plan was to make it a surprise for her.

February 23rd 2024

Koharu: good morning (You)!

You: Hey Koharu… *I yawn deeply*

Koharu: that's it? That's all you haft to say on this special day?

You: Hmm… is it White day already?

Koharu: Hrrmm… *she says in a slight scolding tone*

You: Oh! It's your birthday!

Koharu: yeah, dummy.

You: happy birthday partner, hey, how about we start with eating some breakfast? I bought some bread while you were still sleeping. You want blue berry muffins? Or croissants with chocolate filling?

Koharu: Mm… blue berry muffins are fine.

You: great, care to get the milk and cups?

Koharu: Sure. *she begins walking to the cabinets*

You: the cups are not in the pantries *I say as I stop her*

Koharu: what—? Urrgh! How many times do I haft to tell you? Glass cups are used for drinking not sword throw practice.

You: what's the big deal? They always respawn.

Koharu: they are still not used for targets! *she says making her way to the backyard*

You: whatever, at least I find a way to practice! …and a way to distract you… *I begin running to the main entrance*

As I get to the main entrance, I opened the door quickly and let them in.

You: Come on, come on, come on!

Asuna: come everyone, hurry!

All our friends come into our little cabin and start putting decorations and food everywhere. Balloons, cakes, gifts began to be placed everywhere and everyone ran to put utensils or move furniture to make room for everyone.

Yuuki: I need party hats!

Sinon: Party hats! *she says as she hands them over*

Lisbeth: where is the miso soup?!

Kirito: Here it is! *he says as he hands it over*

Silica: Aah! The party blowers! I forgot them!

Twilight: I got them before we left, here they are! *she says as she hands them over*

Asuna: where are the spices?!

Agil: I got 'em! *he says as he hands them over*

At that moment, the door of the backyard is heard being opened.

Klein: She's coming!

You: everybody act natural!

As I say that, everyone gets in a weird position instead of a natural position.

Koharu: (You), it's one thing you use them for targets but it's another thing you forget them outside *she says as she enters the room*

Everyone: SURPRIIIIIIIIISE!

Koharu: AAAAH! *she drops the cups and breaks them* oh my god!

You: Happy birthday partner!

Koharu: (You), you're the best! *she says as she hugs me* and you guys are the best as well! You all didn't need to do all this for me.

Klein: Pfft, you kiddin'! This is your special day, no way would we ignore something like this.

Koharu: Aww, you guys are so sweet. You were involve too Twilight?

Twilight: Don't breath into it, I just came to make sure you don't do anything to my brother.

Asuna: Ehehehe, happy birthday Koharu! *they both exchange a hug* I made all this food for you.

Koharu: it's like a buffet in here.

Mito: and that's not even half of the surprise, we even got you birthday presents! Which is really hard to get in SAO.

Koharu: Wow, I feel really lucky!

You: and that's still just the beginning, so come on people! Let's party all day!

Everyone: YEAAAAAH!

For the entire we enjoyed Koharu's birthday party and entertained ourselves with games and dares all day and all night, until eventually we all passed out either on the sofas or floors… yeah, and don't ask why, but I found myself on the roof of our little cabin… I was shocked and confused and have no idea as to how I got there… but at the end of the day, Koharu really enjoyed her birthday party.

---

A lot of months have passed since those special events took place and here we are now, in the 74th floor labyrinth. It's been almost two years since this game of death began and Koharu and I are still fighting together on the frontlines, this maze was probably the craziest dungeon we've ever explored. Everywhere we went, there were floors that had sliding platforms, stark white trees, walls that matched the dark void, and paths that just looped wherever you went. Not to mention that the mobs hunting the maze were very agile.

Lizard man lord: Kiiighrr! *the mob swings its sword*

You: Hmph! *I parry the attack* switch out!

Koharu: HEAA! *she stabs the mob*

Lizard man lord: KIGHAAAAAA! *the boss disappears into blue trickling polygons*

You: Phew…

As the mobs disappears, a dialogue box appears saying that I earned 80134 EXP and 546 col.

You: man, this mobs are getting harder and harder to beat.

Koharu: it's not just the mobs, the boss's as well. Do you really think we may be able to defeat this boss without any losses? It was a close call back on the 67th floor, the more floors we climb the more dangerous it gets… I don't even want to imagine how these next floor bosses will be like, not to mention that the next floor is the quarter point boss.

You: yeah, the 75th floor boss… I am sure that one will be deadly…

Koharu: I just… I am so scared to see what might come next… what if one of us…?

You: Alright, how about we just head back? It's been a long day.

Koharu: Y-yeah… maybe I am just tired.

You: alright, let's head back.

After that, we began making our way back to town when we unexpectedly bumped into someone.

You: Hmm? Kirito?

Kirito: *he turns around* Oh hey, you guys heading back?

Koharu: yeah, we explored plenty enough.

Kirito: things are getting quite tricky, huh?

You: Even you?

Kirito: yeah, the mobs are pretty quick on reacting.

Koharu: tell me about it.

Kirito: Since were here, how about we all head back together?

You: Sounds good.

At that moment, the sound of bushes moving is heard nearby.

You: Hmm?

Koharu: *she gasps* no way, look!

As we take a closer look, we see that a ragout rabbit is nipping on leaves nearby.

You: A ragout rabbit! An S-class rare item!

Kirito: No way… *he grabs a few throwing needles from his adventuring belt* be quite… *he throws the first needle at the branch*

As the needle hits the branch, the rabbit panics and begin running away.

Koharu: its getting away!

Kirito: don't worry… *he throws the second needle*

Ragout rabbit: *it squeals as it gets killed*

Later that day

You: Man, I can't believe it… we actually got an S-class rare item!

Kirito: shh! Not so loud.

You: Shit, right… so what are we gonna do with it? I mean, we can't cook it unless we have a high enough cooking skill level. Koharu, can you cook it?

Koharu: I doubt it, while although my cooking skill level is high, I am still a trainee, I might mess up and ruin the meal. Something this special must not be wasted.

You: then I guess we only have one choice…

You, Kirito and Koharu: Asuna.

After that, we went off to find and Asuna, we med up with Mito and said that she was around the 50th floor searching for some items. So without any further ado, we went to the 50th floor.

50th floor: Algade

Kirito: where do you think she might be?

You: Knowing her, she'd probably go with someone trustworthy so she can spend her money properly.

Koharu: She's the second in command in KoB, I think she would get respect anywhere she goes.

You: yeah but still, that is a move she would make… and if I am correct then there is only one place she can be.

With my words being said, we sailed off to Agil's shop.

You: *I open the door* Knock, knock.

Agil: Hey there, look who it is? What can I do for yawl?

You: We are looking for Asuna, has she come here?

Agil: She has actually, said that she needed to get an opinion from her guild mates, said that she'd be back soon.

You: then I guess we'll haft to wait for her.

Agil: why? What's the occasion?

You: this *I share my screen with him*

Agil: Hmm… Ah! H-h-holy crap! This is an S-class rare item! That's insane!

Kirito: Yup, and we need her help. With something this big, we need a high level chef.

Koharu: she is the only one out of our group that has the highest cooking skill level, she is the only one capable of the job.

Agil: I-I see. Well she should be coming back—

Just then, the door is opened.

Asuna: Hey Agil, I discussed with the others about this item and we all agreed that— Oh, hey guys!

We see that Asuna enters the room along with a shady looking man that had his face wrinkled up… he kind of reminded me of the faces the Laughing coffin members had… could it be… nah, I am just overthinking this… they are gone, everyone.

Asuna: what bring you guys here?

Kirito: We got our chef! *he says as he grabs her hands* Uh! *he lets go of her hands* Ahem, sorry about that…

Asuna: Geez, you sacred me for a moment there. What's this about a chef?

Kirito: Oh uh, you said that your cooking skill level is at its max level, right?

Asuna: Hmph! That's right! *she says with a proud smile*

You: great, then it's time to put your skills to the test.

Asuna: what do you mean?

Kirito: we need a favor *she shares her his item screen*

Asuna: Hmm… Ah! Y-y-y-you got a ragout rabbit?!

Kirito: We'll trade you, that is if you can cook it. Sound good?

Asuna: *she grabs him by his shirt* Half… deal?

Kirito: U-u-uh… sure.

Asuna: Hmm… Alright then!

Kirito: Well, guess we'll be taking our leave then.

Agil: Y-yeah, but you can at least let me taste it, right? I thought we were tight man!

Kirito: I'll write you a review about it, but only two pages. Promise!

Agil: Augh… man that is just cold…

You: Psst! I'll grab some off his plate if you can do me a favor later on.

Agil: Ah! Deal! *he says with no hesitation*

You: Deal *I say with a wink* welp, see ya later!

We all then leave Agil's store and begin making our way to the teleport gate.

Asuna: So… were are am I gonna cook it?

Kirito: Uh… well…

Asuna: I am guessing not at your place, right?

You: No way, his place might be filled with trash everywhere.

Kirito: Wha?! What are you implying?

Asuna: what about your place?

You: Igh… it's not big enough for all of us to eat there, plus we still need to get proper cooking materials.

Koharu: the stove I use is fine for cooking but it's not exactly a well-made cooking stove. You could say it's for beginners.

Asuna: *she sighs* alright then, since the main ingredient is special, I won't have any complaints if we all use my place.

You: Huh? You have a house?

Asuna: A lady needs her privacy you know.

You: Oh please don't say those word… *I say as I recall my "Incident" with Koharu*

Asuna: thank you for escorting me Kuradeel, you may go now.

Kuradeel: I am sorry ma'am, but I can't allow you to go home with such shady characters.

You: (wait, is he implying to everyone or just me and Kirito?)

Asuna: hmm… I can't tell the extent of their shadiness.

You and Kirito: Wha…?

Asuna: but I can tell that they are quite skilled, in fact they are ten levels above you.

Kuradeel: are you implying that I am inferior to them…? Hmm… wait a sec, are they one of those beaters?

Kirito: Yeah… so what if we are?

Kuradeel: you shouldn't go with them ma'am, people like them don't care about anyone but themselves!

Koharu: Hey! That guy you call shameless is my boyfriend AND the Integral factor! I suggest you watch your tone, you're an adult, you should show an example.

Asuna: She is right. Kuradeel, as second in command of the Knights of the blood oath, I command you to return to headquarters at once.

Kuradeel: Hrmm…

Asuna: let's go! *she begins dragging Kirito*

You: Wha—?

Koharu: come on, were gonna be left behind. *she says as she drags me as well*

You and Kirito: Uh, we can both walk, you know?

As I look straight forward, I see Kuradeel giving me and Kirito a suspicious glare… it was like he knew about us…

Later that day on the 61st floor

We arrive at the 61st floor and by simply walking through the floor reminded me of everything we faced when we first arrived… man was it a horrible experience…

You: Mm… I can't say I like this place… but I can't say I hate it either.

Koharu: Yeah… I can still feel the pressure of what we went through when we first arrived…

Asuna: Sorry about that, would you like to go somewhere else?

You: No, we said we felt weird but we never said it was all bad.

Koharu: Yeah, this is the place where we knew that we belong.

You: What about you guys? Have you guys hit it off already?

Asuna: Wh-what are you talking about?! *she says in a flushed face*

You: come on Kirito, I am already beating you.

Kirito: beating me at what? Gosh you're so irritating sometimes…

Koharu: *she giggles* as they say, good things happen when you wait but take more time and there will be no more chances.

Asuna: Even you Koharu?!

Kirito: whatever, I think what I really wanna know is the deal with that guy, who is he?

Asuna: oh that's just my body guard. The guilds policies say that all the higher up must have an escort to assist them.

You: Man, that's just stupid… but I do see their motives.

Asuna: I know, the guilds didn't have these rules before, they just focused on getting stronger… nothing else mattered… well, I am probably making a bigger deal then it is. Come on, we should get going before it gets darker.

Kirito: O-oh, okay…

You: (Man… they are totally in love…)

Later at Asuna's house

Kirito: Wh-whoa… this place looks nice. How much did this cottage cost?

Asuna: Hmm… the room and the furniture cost around four million col… anyways, make yourselves at home. I am gonna go change.

Koharu: can I come too?

Asuna: sure thing. No peeking.

You: Yeah, yeah…

Kirito: *he takes a seat* four million col, huh?

You: Our cabin costs fourteen million col, of course it costs that because we bought an ENTIRE house. She is only paying a room.

Kirito: yeah, I guess that makes sense. I think I have enough money to buy a house as nice as this but I am not sure if I should really spent it all on a house like this.

You: Hmm…

Asuna: sorry for the wait.

At that moment, Asuna enters the room and we both see her wearing a medium spring green blouse along with small straight skirt and brown colored shoes.

You: Wow, look at you. You'd capture any man's heart with that outfit you have.

Asuna: *she giggles* thanks, I'll take that as a compliment.

Koharu: hey, I am done.

Koharu enters the room wearing a green shirt along with a red jacket that went around her waist and was also wearing black oyster pants with black shoes that matched Asuna's shoes.

You: Well, well, looks like someone went shopping.

Koharu: do you like it? Asuna helped me pick it out.

You: It's a nice style, but I think it would be more appropriate if it was outside. Regardless, you look beautiful.

Koharu: Aww, thanks.

Asuna: what about you guys? Aren't you guys gonna change?

Kirito: U-Uh oh yeah! *he says with a slight blushed face*

You: (Uh-oh, somebody is blushing… *I say with a smirk*)

After that, Kirito and I changed into our regular outfits. He was wearing a long-sleeved black shirt and black pants with black shoes. As for me, I was wearing a mid-level brown vest with a short-sleeved shirt and brown shorts.

Asuna: *She materializes the ragout rabbit meat* so this is an S-class item, huh? Okay, how do you guys want this cooked up?

Kirito: we thought we leave that decision to the chef.

Asuna: I see… in that case, how about we make it into a stew? *she then places a pot* Koharu, do you mind making the side dishes?

Koharu: not at all. *she spawns a cooking knife*

Asuna: Alright *she spawns the ingredients and her cooking knife*

With a single touch of the knife, the meat is cut into pieces. The same goes for the ingredients, the tomatoes, the lettuce, the potatoes, basically all the ingredients that she put in were cut into pieces.

Koharu: *she cuts the bread*

Koharu starts cutting bread and puts a kettle on the stove to start heating.

You: Uh… *I watch Koharu make the side dishes*

Kirito: Uhh… *he watches Asuna cook the stew*

Asuna: in real life, there'd be a lot more stpes into preparing this *she says as she add the meat into the pot* cooking in SAO is quite simple, believe it or not is kind of boring *she puts the pot into the oven* alright… *she adjusts the timer* there we go, that takes care of that. Koharu, need any help?

Koharu: that would be nice. I need help making the rice.

Asuna: let me lend you a hand.

Kirito and I watch the girls as they work together to make the side dishes.

25 minutes later

Asuna: Alright… the stew is ready *she grabs in the lid*

Kirito and I both wait with anticipation as Asuna grabs the handle on the lid.

Asuna: *she smirks and removes the lid*

You and Kirito: Uh!

You: (this is gonna be a delightful night!)

Later

A few hours later, the table is filled with empty plates and small baskets filled with bread crumbs. My stomach hasn't been this full ever since the Christmas party Koharu prepared for me last year. The food was absolutely delicious, especially made with high cooking skill level.

Asuna: Aaah… I've been here for two years and this is the first time I've ever eaten S-class food… I am so glad I survived long enough to eat that…

You: You said it…

Koharu: *she wipes her mouth with a napkin* yeah… the food was outstanding Asuna.

Asuna: You did part of the cooking too Koharu, you deserve as much credit.

Kirito: Both of you are amazing cooks. Thanks so much for cooking Asuna, Koharu.

Koharu: Aww, you're too kind.

Asuna: *she giggles* it's funny… sometimes I get this feeling that I lived her my entire life. You guys ever feel like that?

You: Sometimes… yes.

Koharu: so do I.

Kirito: yeah, almost all the time. In fact, there are days in where I don't think about the real world at all. And it's not just me, these days people don't seem to care about clearing the game anymore. It's like they grew accustom to living here.

You: I kind of had a feeling that this would happen…

Koharu: it's so sad, really…

Asuna: yeah… I can't imagine how our family members must be feeling knowing that we are trapped in this game… well, regardless, I still wanna go back. There are just so many things I haven't done, you know?

You: I know… I want to go back to the real world and meet all of you in person… I wanna met Koharu and become actual lovers and go on real dates…

Koharu: that's what I want too…

Kirito: *he smiles* I get how you all feel. And… I think it's up to people like us to bring that message to other players. People are counting on us to defeat this game, if we give up now, then what would have been the point for all of our fighting… we haft to keep fighting, for everyone's sake.

Asuna: Yeah…

As we all drink our cups of tea, we're left thinking about what we just discussed about returning to the real world. Actually, now that I think about it, this is the first time we discussed our plans as a group. When was the last time we met like this? Mito would be the only one missing, but other than that, it's like we've made a wonderful reunion of the players who took on the first few floors. Man, time sure flies by quickly...

Asuna: Hmm? *she looks up to Kirito* Oh no, don't even go there.

Kirito: Hmm? What?

Asuna: I've seen that look on guys faces before and always right before they propose to me.

Kirito: UH! *he says with a slight blushed face*

Asuna: *she giggles* you should see your face. I guess you never had a girlfriend before.

Kirito: Uh… Pfft, whatever I'm a solo player *he says while drinking his cup*

You: whew, is it getting hot in here?

Koharu: (You!)

Asuna: *she giggles a bit but then turns serious* and you're okay with that? Actually… are you all okay with that?

You, Kirito and Koharu: Hmm?

Asuna: (You), Koharu, while although you have each other, you two are still solo players. Don't you guys ever want to join a guild?

You, Kirito and Koharu: Mmm…

Asuna: I know how the beta testers don't fit in with the guilds, but… ever since we got to floor 70, things have been getting more dangerous… the monster algorithms are even more irregular.

She's right. It's like Koharu said, the more floors we climb, the more dangerous it gets.

Asuna: there are things solo players can't handle. Sometimes, warping out isn't an option.

You: I honestly don't mind. As long as I got my partner, I know I will be fine, besides were both pretty careful.

Kirito: Yeah, so am I. I work better by myself anyway. Besides, most of the times party members instead of helping they just get in the way.

Asuna: Oh yeah? *she points her cooking knife at Kirito*

Kirito: Ghigh!

You: Whoa…!

Kirito: U-uh, my bad… everyone except for you.

Asuna: Good.

You: (Seriously, what's wrong with her? Did I underestimate the feelings she has for him? Cause if I did, she must have it really bad for Kirito.)

Kirito: *he sighs*

Asuna: Alright then… then how about we all team up again?

You, Kirito and Koharu: Huh?!

Asuna: I'll even invite Mito to come along. It will be just like old times, we will be scouting together. *she says as she twirls her knife with her hand*

Kirito: H-hold on! Don't you have stuff you haft to do for your guild? You can't just bail on them!

Asuna: It's not like we have any leveling quarters.

Kirito: then what about your body guard?

Asuna: I'll just ditch him.

Kirito: Ugh…

You: I think it would be best if we just let her Kirito.

Koharu: you out of all people should know that once she makes up her mind there is no stopping her.

Kirito: Hrmm…

At that moment, a notification screen pops in front of all of us. "Asuna invites you to a party"

Kirito: Mm…. the front lines are dangerous though—

"Swoosh!"

Asuna then points the knife at Kirito again and this time with a sword skill active, thus creating a small usher of wind in front of his face.

Kirito: Ghigh… uh… okay, fine… *he presses yes*

You: No way am I getting a taste of that *I press yes*

Koharu: okay then *she presees yes*

"You are now in a party with Asuna, Kirito, Mito and Koharu"

Asuna: *she twirls her knife in the air and puts it away* Hmm. *she giggles and smiles*

You: (talk about scary…)

Later that night

Asuna: Well, I guess thank you are in order for the meal so, thank you guys.

You: thank you for cooking it Asuna.

Koharu: yeah, it was delicious.

Kirito: yeah, maybe next time… ugh, what am I saying? No way am I going to get my hands on something like that again…

Asuna: No way, you can make anything yummy if you have the skills to cook.

You: and I should know, Koharu makes me a box lunch every time we go out hunting. So I always get a pretty good meal every day.

Koharu: it's not that great.

You: You kidding?! It's amazing! You should give yourself more credit.

Koharu: *she giggles* thanks, that makes me feel more confident with myself.

Kirito: Hmm… you know, when I take a look around… I sometimes wonder, is this what Akihiko Kayaba wanted?

You: that's what question myself day after day… what exactly was his goal here?

You, Kirito and Asuna: Hmm…

The next day

The next day Kirito, Koharu and I were sitting near the teleport gate of the 74th floor, waiting for Asuna and Mito to show up.

Kirito: *he yawns* where are they?

You: cheer up Mr. Solo player. This will not be so bad, it will be just like old times.

Kirito: yeah… you're probably right… I just hope everything turns out okay.

At that moment, the teleport gate begins to shine as the silhouette of two players begin to spawn in.

?: Aah! Look out!

You and Kirito: Wha—? Gagh!

Kirito and I both get tumbled as the players land in top of us.

You: Gagh… M-Mito?

Mito: (Y-You…?)

Kirito: Igh… what is this? "Squish" Hmm… squishy. "Squish".

?: Igh.. AAAAAH! *she slaps Kirito away*

Kirito: Puugh! Gigh! Gagh! Pugh! *he crashes into a pedestal* "Immortal object"

Kirito: Augh… *he gets up*

You: with just a single slap she managed to send him flying that far? I don't wanna get on her badside.

Mito: yeah, no joke.

Koharu: excuse me… but how long do you two intend to stay like that? *she says with an innocent yet sinister tone*

You: what do you—?

As I take a closer look, I see that Mito and I have our faces and body close… way too close.

Mito: Hrmm! *she blushes and steps back*

You: U-uh, sorry about that.

Mito: I-its fine. It was my fault anyway.

Kirito: Uh… *he takes a closer look at Asuna*

Asuna just lies on the ground as she grabs her chest with her arms and her face as red as a tomato.

Kirito: Uh… *he gropes his palm realizing his mistake* U-uh… hey, good morning Asuna.

Asuna: Igh!

Kirito: W-wait! I—um.

Kirito is interrupted as a light from the teleport gate begins to shine brightly and Asuna runs to Kirito for cover. As the light clears out, we see that Asuna's body guard spawns in the area.

Kuradeel: why are you behaving like this ma'am? I am just following orders. Now, let's return to Headquearters.

Asuna: I will not! Especially not with you and why were you lurking outside my house, huh?

You, Kirito and Koharu: Huh?!

Mito: it's true. She just woke up and there he was, standing like a total creep!

Kuradeel: You have a bad habit of sneaking out. So for the past month part of my mission is to keep an eye on you in Selmburg.

Asuna: Wh-what? Who order this? It wasn't the commander.

Kuradeel: with all due respect ma'am, my mission is to guard you. No matter where you are including your house.

Asuna: Wh-what?! No it doesn't you idiot!

Kuradeel: *he sighs* Mito, you're here assistant, can't you speak with her?

Mito: I already did and we both came to a conclusion that you're a creep!

Kuradeel: *he sighs again* I wish you both would be a little more understanding about this. *he walks up to Asuna* now then, let's return to headquarters.

As Kuradeel takes Asuna away, we all could see the look in her eyes that she was scared. She wanted us to save her, but before I could make a move.

Kirito: *he grabs his wrist* sorry… but we'll be bowering your second in command for the day.

You: (I need to intervene) don't worry, we will take full responsibility for her safety. If anything happens to her, you can blame us.

Kirito: that's right. Of course, we are sure she will be fine, its not like were going on a boss raid, were just gonna explore the 74th floor labyrinth, nothing else. You can go, she'll be fine with us.

As we gave our words, Kuradeel seem to get more irritated the more we speak. It seem like he didn't like us one bit.

Kuradeel: insolent punks! Do you two know who I am?!

You: (Wow, he really pulled that card.)

Kuradeel: I am a member of the glorious knights of the blood oath! Low level players like yourselves couldn't protect her!

You: Uh… Okay, and do you know who we are? We are her best friends. We've been protecting her even before KoB was born. If you don't take Kirito's word for it, then you can take mine that she'll be safe. I've been protecting my partner ever since floor 1 and she never died. Besides, even if I didn't make all those achievements, I am pretty sure Kirito can do a better job on protecting her then you.

Kuradeel: Grr… is that so? Then how about he proves it right here and now. Oh and, you will be next as well *he sends a dual request to Kirito*

Kirito: Mm… *he looks at Asuna*

Asuna: *she nods*

Kirito: are you sure?

Asuna: don't worry, I'll tell the commander how this happened.

Kirito: alright then *he presses accept*

As he presses accept, the names and countdown appear above them and they both get ready to fight.

Kuradeel: Please stand aside Asuna, Mito. I am going to prove to you two that I am the only one capable of protecting Asuna, and that even includes you Mito.

Mito: Why is he dragging me into this?

Kuradeel prepares a one handed long sword as Kirito prepares the Elucidator as well. There was a large crowd watching and surprisingly, they all had their bets on Kirito instead of Kuradeel.

Kuradeel: Irgh…

3…

2…

1…

Start!

The dual begins and their sword skills begin to activate and they both leap at each other with their swords closing in on each other. As they get closer though, I could see Kuradeels face as it turned into a wild grin… almost like those from LafCof…

Kuradeel: Igh… hehaha!

Kirito didn't lose is composer, he just brought his sword next to his and a bright light is flashed as they clash with one another. Kirito moved to the other side of the field as his body moved sideways and Kuradeel was left in shock as he sees his sword… now slashed in half.

Kuradeel: Ah… It can't be… *his sword bursts away* Ah! Ugh… *he falls down*

All the players, including Asuna and Mito were left in shock as Kirito swings his sword and sheathes it away.

Random player: H-he cut his sword…!

Random player 2: H-how did he do that?!

Kirito: if you wanna try again with a different weapon I'll be glad to take you on… or, we can call it a day.

Kuradeel: Grr… *he scrolls down his menu*

Kuradeel then grabs a sword that is shorter than the other sword, kind of close to a dagger and he begins charging at Kirito once more, but before he could reach him.

Asuna: hmph! *she throws Kuradeels sword away*

Kuradeel: A-Asuna?!

Asuna stares disappointingly at Kuradeel as she sheathes her rapier away.

Kuradeel: I-I don't know how but he cheated! You saw how he destroyed my sword!

You: Wow, he is not even accepting his defeat.

Koharu: he truly is the lowest of the low.

Kuradeel: there is no other way I could have lost to a pathetic beater like him!

Mito: this is just sad to watch.

Asuna: Kuradeel. As second in command of the knights of the blood oath. I am releasing you as your duties as my body guard. You are to return to headquarters and wait for further orders.

Kuradeel: Y-You can't be serious… damn you… gr…

Kuradeel just stares at me and Kirito and just walks away to the teleport gate with a very annoyed look.

Kuradeel: Teleport… Gramzam… *he gets teleported away*

As he disappears, Asuna nearly faints as she lets all her worries leave her body.

You: are you okay Asuna?

Asuna: Yeah, don't worry about it. The guild has just been over demanding of me.

Mito: she was literally called in for 13 strategy meetings for the scout members of the guild. Seriously, it's like they need her for every little problem they have. Can't they just come up with it themselves?

Kirito: Well… I think you did well up until now. I mean, if you hadn't been so picky or followed through with emerging strategies, do you think the guild would have gotten this far if it wasn't for you?

Asuna: Uh…

Kirito: I mean, what do I know? I'm a solo player. But still, if you decide to take the day off to hang out with a loser like me, then that is your decision to make, not theirs… screw 'em.

Asuna: alright then… then I will accept your offer and take some time off of the guild. You can play forward today. *she says as she begins walking away*

Kirito: H-Huh?! Hold up, aren't we supposed to take turns at fighting in the front?

Asuna: Sorry, it's my day off, remember?

Kirito: Oh come on!

You: Ehehe, should have kept your mouth shut.

Koharu and Mito: *they both laugh at Kirito*

After that, we all head to the maze on the 74th floor where we start fighting a series of mobs to start managing their attack patterns. As we all began adjusting to the combat, we found out that our attack strategies still haven't change.

Asuna: Hup! *she stabs three times at a Demonic servant*

Mito: Hmph! *she twirls around the field with her scythe*

Asuna and Mito handled themselves with amazing techniques. Mito was cornering the mobs and Asuna was draining her last remaining HP. It was quite amazing to see them fight together.

Kirito: wow, having someone along who knows how to fight sure makes things easier.

Asuna: Kirito, switch out!

Kirito: H-Huh? Right!

Kirito leaps in front of Asuna to take the lead, as he does, he unleashes a four hit combo that finishes with a final swing unleashing a horizontal square.

Demonic Servant: IGHHHH! *It disappears into blue trickling polygons*

Mito: Woo! We still got it.

Asuna: yeah, no kidding.

Kirito: Wait… do you guys hear that?

We all remain quite as the sound of footsteps begin to approach us, the footsteps sounded like mobs running towards us.

You: An ambush attack!

Koharu: Ugh! I hate these!

At that moment, 6 Demonic servants and 8 lizard man lords begin to surround us as they take the advantage of our surroundings.

Mito: they have us surrounded.

Asuna: we need to make an opening but with this many mobs, I am not sure if we can find one this quickly.

You: Don't worry. Koharu and I have dealt with this kind of ambush before.

Koharu: leave it to us! *she prepares her assassins dagger*

Koharu and I power up our weapons its sword skills as we begin to turn the tides of the battle. Looking for a good opportunity, I wait for a mob to land the first attack.

Lizard man lord: KIIGH! *the mob unleashes a sonic leap skill*

Using its leap attack, I use the opportunity to parry its attack and leave it shock as it gets taken back at the attack.

You: Switch out!

Koharu: HEAA! *she unleashes a swift assault sword skill*

Dealing a 12 hit combo, she unleashes her fury at the other mobs as she slashes through six of them within the blink of an eye.

Kirito, Asuna and Mito: Aaah! *they all cover their faces with the dust blowing at their faces*

Koharu: Switch!

You: Hmph!

Using my speed and strength, I ram through the mobs as they either get pushed to the ground or get pushed off the path and fall into the pit.

You: Activate Lethia armament stone! Area shape!

With the orb I got from the 40th floor, a void is summoned in the area and sucks in the last remaining mobs on the field.

Kirito: wh-whoa!

Asuna: th-that was amazing!

Mito: Wait… it's not over yet, they were just the pawns!

At that time, a giant mob with demon horns, a one-handed hammer as a weapon, a dark brown cape that was tied around his neck and back, and a helmet that covered his face.

You: A demonic messenger.

Mito: it must be the field boss of the area.

You: if that is true, then that means that we are getting close to something big… Koharu…

Koharu: yeah…

Koharu and I begin running towards the boss as it raises its hammer to land an attack. Using that oppourtinty, we let the boss smash the floor to look for an opening.

You: Koharu, now!

Koharu: right! HEAAA! *she slashes through the boss's waist*

Demonic messenger: GRAAAAUUURR! *the boss takes a few steps back*

You: Hmph! *I stab its leg*

As I stab its leg, the boss falls down with its arm granting him support.

Koharu: Heaa! *she kicks the boss's head*

With the boss getting kicked by Koharu, it falls down as it grabs its face.

You: alright… activate umbra armament stone!

Using the orb that I got from the 20th floor boss, a set of green purple worms are summoned on my blade and begin grabbing the boss by its legs.

You: IrrgghhheAAAAA! *I swing the boss to a side*

Demonic messenger: GRAAAArGH! *it yells as it gets smashed*

You: GhiighhAAAAA! *I swing the boss to the other side*

Demonic messenger: GRAAAAAUUUU!

Asuna: he can lift that boss using only his weapon! *she says in total shock*

Mito: not to mention that those worms have a good grip on the boss.

You: GhiiiggghAAAAAAAA! *I throw the boss up high in the air* KOHARU!

Koharu: right!

We both jump high into the air towards the boss and we both slowly approach the boss, as we approach, our weapons begin to glow with platinum light and we both prepare to attack.

You: ready?

Koharu: ready!

You and Koharu: HEAAAAAAAA! *we both stab the boss's chest*

Demonic messenger: RRRROOOOOOUUUUURGGHHH—!

"KURPOOOOOOOW!"

Kirito, Asuna and Mito: AAAAAH!

With the boss exploding a platinum light, the entire mobs walking around the area disappear into blue polygons trickling polygons as the wave of light passes through them.

You and Koharu: Hmph! *we both land on the ground*

Kirito, Asuna and Mito: …

…

…

Kirito: that was…

Asuna: insane…

Mito: I guess I underestimated the strength of their teamwork…

Asuna: Well, I mean… unlike us, they have been fighting together ever since the first floor. I guess it's only natural that they are so good fighting by each other's side.

Kirito: yeah, but still… they are a scary couple. They defeated fourteen mobs and a field boss while we only defeated one mob and still had difficulty!

Koharu: Whew, that was a close one.

You: yeah, but at least we managed like we always do.

Kirito: Wait, are you two saying that you fight like that every time?!

You: uh yeah.

Koharu: it's just a normal fight for us.

Kirito, Asuna and Mito: Uh… What?!

A few minutes later

After exploring the labyrinth for a few more minutes, we eventually made it to an area we haven't explored yet.

Kirito: Hmm… if we keep heading this way…

Asuna: Kirito… look…

Asuna then points to a large door that was standing right in front of us… the vibe the room was giving was definitely nerve wrecking…

Mito: is that…

Kirito: yeah… we found the boss room.

Koharu: what should we do?

Kirito: why don't we have a quick pick? As long as we don't go to further in, we should be fine, besides bosses don't leave their rooms even if the doors remain open.

You: alright then, but we should still be prepared. Have a teleport crystal ready at hand.

Everyone: right!

With each of us having a teleportation crystal in hand, we all have our palms pressed against the door and we all slowly open the doors.

Everyone: Mm…

We all carefully scan the room but all we can see is pitch black… still, I had an uneasy feeling about the room…

Koharu: Uhh… guys, look!

At that moment, torches from the walls in the room begin to light up with blue flames and as the room light up… we are left with a shocking sight in front of us…

You, Kirito, Asuna, Koharu and Mito: Uh…!

We all looked up to see a humongous boss standing right in front of us…his body was built with muscles that I was pretty sure weren't for show. Its skin was deep blue, and its eyes were dark red, its head, resting atop its thick chest, was that of a goat's, which had an elongated snout and thick, twisted horns stretching backward from the sides of the head. The lower half of its body with bestial legs was covered in long, navy blue hair. A tail that was shaped like an anaconda and a main weapon that was an equally massive sword that looked like a zanbato. As the room lit up, its name and four health bars appeared before us.

You: what… in the…?! The Gleam eyes…

Gleam eyes: Grr… ROAAAAAAAAR! *its eyes shine bright blue*

You: run… RUN FOR YOUR LIVES!

Everyone: AAAAAAAH! *we all run away*

Later

You: *pant* … *pant*… did you guys see… the size of that thing?

Koharu: it was really scary… I haven't seen a boss this scary ever since the 5th, 20th, 25th and 50th floor…

Asuna: that one is gonna be tough to bit…

Mito: not to mention its attack must be massively tough. Did you see its muscles? I am pretty sure he could left the entire floor if he wanted to.

Kirito: not to mention that the sword he has must reach far distances and can have all sort of special attack too.

Asuna: we're going to have to put a set of tanks in to be up front and keep switching out to wear it down.

Kirito: Yeah, and it wouldn't hurt to have at least ten shield users as well…

Asuna: Hmm… shield users, huh?

Kirito: Hmm? What?

Asuna: I was just wondering… are you two keeping any secrets from us?

Kirito: huh? Who?

Asuna: You and (You). You see, the biggest advantage of using a one-handed sword is that you can use a shield to protect yourself from attacks. But I haven't seen you two use one… I don't use a shield because it would slow down my rapier attacks. Mito doesn't use a shield because she needs to use her two hands to wield her scythe. Koharu doesn't uses a shield because that lowers her movability. Others don't use a shield because they think it looks dumb and… how come you are not using the sword you requested from Liz?

Kirito: Hrmm… *he adverts her gaze*

Asuna: pretty suspicious…

You: Alright Asuna, stop it already. We all have our own ways of attacking and that doesn't mean you should delve into them. I don't use a shield because it slows down my attacks, but I don't know why Kirito doesn't use a shield, but I don't tell other people why they don't have it and why they do have. I suggest you focus on yourself instead of other people's business.

Asuna: Uh… *she smiles* your probably right, sorry about that.

Kirito: Phew… thanks for that.

You: No prob *I say with a wink*

Koharu: well, since were here. How about we have lunch? *she materializes basket*

You: Ooh! I'm hungry.

Koharu: right. Here, I also brought… wait… *she searches the basket* crap, I forgot the other sandwiches at home! I just brought for me and (You)! Ugh! I am so stupid!

Asuna: don't worry *she materializes her own basket* I brought one too. One for each of us.

Kirito: N-no way! And you mad it?!

Asuna: sure did!

Mito: Whoa! Nothing beats Asuna's cooking! I am so excited! Uh… *she looks at Koharu* B-but I am sure your cooking is amazing too Koharu.

Koharu: Oh don't mind me, I am fine with it.

Asuna: alright. Everyone take their gloves off before you eat.

Kirito: U-uh sure! *he says excitedly*

Asuna: here you go.

Asuna then hands Kirito a sandwich filled with vegetables and hamburger steak… at least I thought it was.

Kirito: whoa… Auum… "Munch" "munch" this is good!

Kirito then begins chowing down the sandwich like he hasn't eaten in days.

You: Hehe, look at him go. Welp, time for my bite, aaaum… "Munch" "munch" w-whoa! This is better than usual!

Koharu: it might come as a surprise, but my cooking skill level broke to the next level last night.

You: Huh, it must have been when you were making the side dishes with Asuna. Either way, this is good! *I begin chewing down the sandwich Koharu made* I know you two promised not to talk about it but seriously, how do you guys make it taste so good?

Koharu: Asuna?

Asuna: Oh alright. Its thanks for an entire year of research and study.

Asuna then proceeds to display all of her recipes on the screen showing how she prepares the sauces and the food.

Asuna: aincrad has all kinds of different flavors. Flavors you can use to make them into something new. I analyzed the effect of a hundred spices of different seasonings. *she grabs a spice* this is made from glogwa seeds and shuble leaves mixed all together. *she places a drop on our palms*

As I taste the sauce, I can feel the familiar taste from the real world…

You: this tastes like…

Kirito: Mayonnaise!

Asuna: and this was made of abilpa beans, sagu leaves and oola fish bones. *she places a drop of sauce on our palms*

Mito: W-wait, I know this… I know this, I know I do...!

You: it taste like…

Kirito: Soy sauce!

You: that's the taste!

Koharu: *she giggles* Yup, each one was handmade by the two of us.

Kirito: Amazing! You two should open up a shop and sell these! You two would make a fortune!

You: Whoa! Hang on there, I refuse that offer! If they open up a restaurant and sell all their food, there won't be enough for us! This needs to be a secret! A secret for us! No one else… and maybe some of our friends too!

Kirito: You know… you're absolutely right! You guys can't sell this!

Koharu: *she giggles* it's kind of cute seeing them geek out for our food.

Mito: My mom always said that the perfect way to win a man's heart was to first win his stomach.

Asuna: geez… if you guys like it so much, we can always make it for you.

You: thanks! But don't leave Mito out of it!

Asuna: oh right, sorry about that *she hands over her sandwich*

Mito: Oh thanks, I am starving *she takes a bite* but I can agree on one thing with them… this is amazing!

After resting for a little while, we hear the sound of people approaching us.

You: Hmm? Someone's coming!

Everyone: Uh!

As we all get up to see who it is, we see the Furinkazan guild walking towards us.

You: Klein?

Klein: Huh? Oh! Sup (You)! Kirito!

Kirito: Oh hey, you're still alive, huh?

Klein: and you're still mean as well. I haven't seen you all gathered up like this ever since floor 25. Sure does bring some good memories.

Mito: what are you guys doing here?

Furinkazan member 1: we were just exploring.

Furinkazan member 2: but these mobs are just so hard to beat.

Mito: Augh, tell me about it.

Klein: Wait, but why are you with them Kirito?

Asuna: Oh this might come as a surprise but were all actually in the same party.

Furinkazan: HUH?!

Klein: Kirito, you son of a—

Kirito: W-wait! It's not what it's not what it looks like!

At that moment, more footsteps are heard approaching us. The difference was that heavy panting and armor sets were heard approaching as well.

Kirito: W-what the hell? It's an army.

You: not just any army. It's the Aincrad liberation Army.

Koharu: is that Corvatz?

Klein: they are the army that leads floor 1. What are they doing up here?

Asuna: ever since the incident on the 47th floor, they have been mainly focusing on growing up their numbers. I haven't seen them ever since the incident with that strange mage that we fought in the cave the other day. I haven't seen them on the front lines for a while.

You: that still doesn't answer the question as to why they are here. Kibaou wouldn't send a low level party to scout a dangerous dungeon, I know that much…

Corvatz: At ease!

All the members lay down as their own feet have trouble carrying them, they don't stop panting as well. I could tell they were exhausted.

Corvatz: I'm with the Aincrad Liberation Army, Corvatz.

Kirito: I am Kirito. Solo.

Corvatz: sure ya are. Have you cleared the area up ahead?

Kirito: yeah, we also got a map with directions to the boss room.

Corvatz: is that so…? Well then, hand over that map and we'll be on our way.

Klein: Wh-what?! You want us to just give it to you?! Do you even know how much of a pain in the ass mapping is?

Corvatz: we share our information and resources to players everywhere and we don't charge a thing for it! We maintain order in the chaos on battle, so that all players can leave this world as quickly as possible! Therefore, it is your duty to cooperate, so hand over that map!

Asuna: Igh… listen you!

Mito: you better back off!

Thing were starting to heat up, I even found myself moving my hand near my sword.

Klein: Why you…! *he grabs his Katana*

Kirito: Stop. It's fine.

Klein: What? Hold on wait, come on man your being way too nice for them.

Kirito: I don't care about making money off of map data. *he hands over the map data to Corvatz*

Corvatz: Hmm… thanks for cooperating. *he says as he turns around*

Kirito: by the way, if you're thinking about taking on the floor boss I wouldn't recommend it.

Corvatz: that is my decision to make.

You: Wait what… hey, my friends and I have just taken a look inside that room pal and let me tell ya, it ain't pretty. You can't take on that boss on your level and even if you could, you would need so much energy to take on it!

Kirito: He's right. I mean look at your troops, they're exhausted, they need at least a day of rest!

Corvatz: nonsense! My men are tougher then that! They won't quit until I say so! On your feet, come on move it!

With so much effort, they all get on their feet and begin walking away.

Klein: Man… are those guys gonna be okay?

Asuna: I'm sure they know what they're doing… they won't take on the boss without checking it out first, right?

You: as much as I'd like to agree… I don't think so. Corvatz was always a man to make up his mind before acting or thinking… I think it would be best if we go check them out.

Koharu: I'm with (You).

Klein: so are we.

Kirito: Uh… honestly, I don't know whose nicer, you or me.

You: Well… it's a long way to go, especially with all the curves. We should get going just to be at least halfway.

Kirito: yeah.

Mito: follow me, I know how to get there.

After that, we all began following Mito to the boss room. After arriving hallway, we arrived to a small area where there was a small pack of mobs but thanks to our early practice, we finally got used to their attack patterns and defeated them with ease.

Klein: HEAAA! *he slashes through a Lizard man lord* Phew… that's the last of 'em. We've been walking for quite a while, maybe those guys used some kind of tool and gotten out of there.

Before we jumped to any conclusion, I expected the worst.

ALA member: AAAAAAH!

You: Ugh! You've gotta be freaking kidding me!

Mito: how could they be so stupid!

Kirito: come on!

As we all begin rushing to the boss room, we hear more and more shrieks of the members as the sound of swords clashing against each other is heard over and over again.

Asuna: Ugh, those idiots!

As we all arrive to the boss room, we see that all the members are holed up in a tight spot and have barely brought the boss's HP down by a quarter.

The Gleam eyes: Grrr…

Kirito Idiots! Don't just stand there, use your teleport crystals!

ALA member 2: W-we can't! The crystals aren't working!

You: wait what?! A none crystal area?!

Asuna: I've never heard this kind of trap being in a boss room before!

You: maybe this traps was already set on previous floors… we just didn't realize… *I say in complete horror*

Koharu: No way… what do we do?

Klein: Hey! Whats going on here? *he says as he arrives*

Mito: they are all being crushed by the boss. We don't know how much they can last.

Corvatz: the Aincrad Liberation Army doesn't know the word retreat! Come on, keep fighting!

Kirito: they're insane!

You: Corvatz! This isn't about defeating the boss! It's about your lives, get out of there quick!

Corvatz, without listening to me, he charges up a sword skill.

You: Corvatz! No!

Without thinking, I enter the room with my sword in hand.

Koharu: (YOU!) *she follows me*

The gleam Eyes: Grr…

Corvatz: ready… CHAAAAARGE!

The Gleam Eyes: GRAAAAAAAAGH! *the boss fires a blue fire breath*

ALA members: AAAAAAH!

The Gleam eyes: Grr… *it focuses on Crovatz*

Corvatz: Huh?!

The boss was about to slash away Corvatz but before it could attack.

You: GEEAAAAAAA! *I parry its attack*

The Gleam Eyes: GROOUGH! GRRR!

You: *I gulp* alright… guess it's just you and me…

With the Gleam eyes raising his one handed long sword, he attempts to slash me but I manage to push it aside but the impact is too powerful to even maintain. If I don't calibrate the movements the boss could send me flying a few feet away with very less effort.

The Gleam Eyes: Grrr…! *it swings its massive sword*

"CAASHING!"

You: Ghigh! *I get push back*

The boss's strength was massive, one strike causes me to step back.

The Gleam eyes: Grr…! *the boss's eyes glow blue*

You: Uh-oh!

The boss was preparing another attack and I was too close to it.

Koharu: (You!) watch out!

With very little time to react, Koharu unleashes her specual ability "By your Side" sword skill and as a result, my HP is back to full and a few power buff icons appear on my cursor. Not only that, but the boss's attack got canceled.

Asuna: (You!), Koharu! *she enters the room*

Kirito and Mito: A-Asuna!

Klein: ghigh! *he gulps* oh, what the hell? *he enters the room as well.

The gleam eyes focuses on Koharu and me as it tries to bring its sword down on us.

Asuna: Igh! *she stabs the boss's back*

The Gleam Eyes: Grr… *It punches Asuna away*

Asuna: AGH!

Kirito: Asuna!

The boss doesn't stop there, as it begins to raise its sword once more to attempt to strike at Asuna.

Kirito: ASUNA!

You: Hup! *I push her out of the way*

As Asuna and I roll around in the floor, the area where Asuna was standing gets crushed as the boss smashes the ground with its sword.

Kirito: (You!) thank you so much!

The Gleam eyes: Grr… Roooaaaaaar!

The boss spins in the area he was standing in and creates a whirlpool of earth that causes everyone in the room to get slashed with its sword.

Everyone: AAAAAH!

You: igh! This boss is too powerful! We can't defeat it on our own! We need to get out of here!

Mito: yeah but we can't do it if its focus on all of us! A few of us need to keep it distracted so we can get out!

Klein: don't worry, my guild buddies and I are already helping the ALA members get out safely! *he says as he carries one of the members*

As he yells loudly, the boss prepares another attack as its mouth begins to shine bright purple.

Kirito: IGH! *he slashes the boss's back*

The Gleam Eyes prepares its sword as he faces Kirito on a one on one battle. With the two of them slashing it away with their sword, the boss manages to scratch Kirito three times, thus making very little time for Kirito to react.

Kirito: Igh… this'll take forever!

The Gleam Eyes: Grr…. *the boss tries to smash Kirito with his sword*

Kirito: Huh—? GHIGH!

Using his sword, Kirito tries to block the attack but its only making the attack damage get smaller as his HP continues to lower down.

Mito: HEAAAA! *she stabs the boss's chest*

The Gleam Eyes: WROOOOOUUUUUR! *the boss pushed back*gets

Mito: *she twirls her scythe to the sides* Hmph! *she gets into battle position*

With the boss now targeting Mito, the boss had to deal with the quick mobility that Mito provided, but it still wasn't enough. Mito only managed to distract the boss, but failed to cause any real damage.

You: HEAA! *I distract the boss from Mito*

The Gleam eyes: Grr… *the boss focuses on me*

You: Activate shield prison armament stone!

With the blue orb I got from the 61st floor… I had a new upgrade on my sword. The blue aura that surrounded my sword began to surround the area as a shield icon appeared on our cursors, thus making my sword more durable as well.

The Gleam Eyes: Grr… Graaagh! *the boss swings his sword downward*

YoU: Hmph! *I use my sword as a shield*

As the boss's sword began to reach mine…

"SWOOOSH!"

The Gleam Eyes: GRAAAUGH?!

The impact made the boss to get taken back as the orb made my sword ten times more durable than its own sword.

You: Switch out!

Koharu: HEAAAA! *she slashes the boss 12 times*

The Gleam eyes: RAAAAAAUUUUURRRGH! *the boss slashes Koharu away*

Koharu: AAAH!

You: Koharu!

The Gleam eyes: Grr! *the boss attempts to stab me*

You: Ghigh! *I backflip out of the way*

As the area gets smashed with its massive sword, my HP drops down as the area that impacted the sword still manages to knock down a few point down.

You: Damn… *I look at Kirito, Asuna, Mito, Klein… and Koharu* (the odds are not evenly matched… if I don't do something, things could turn bad… perhaps… its time to use it… but I need time to activate it.)

Kirito: igh, Asuna, Mito, Klein, (You), Koharu! I need ten seconds, keep it off me!

You: Actually, I need a few seconds too!

Asuna: don't worry, we can handle it!

Mito: whatever you have plan, it better work!

Koharu: HEAAA! *she unleashes her "By your side" sword skill a second time*

As Koharu unleashes her special ability, Asuna's, Mito's and Kirito's HP all go back to max along with power buff icons.

Koharu: I will provide support! Focus on the boss!

Kirito: *he scrolls down his main menu*

Kirito begins to look frantically into his skill menus list. I begin doing the same as well.

You: come on… where is that skill? Where is that skill?

Klein: AAAAARGH! *he stops an attack* Ghigh! *he gets pushes away by the boss* AAGH!

Mito: IIIIGHAAAA! *she twirls around the room with her scythe* HEAAA! *she throws her scythe at the boss*

As her scythe is thrown in midair, it slashes through the boss's head and then comes back like a boomerang and slashes the boss a second until eventually coming back to her.

The Gleam eyes: GRAAAAAUU! *it punches Mito away*

Mito: AAGH!

Asuna: HEAAA! *she stabs the boss 6 times with her sword skill*

The Gleam eyes: Grr! *it stabs Asuna*

Asuna: Gaaah!

Koharu: HEAAA! *she unleashes her "By your side" sword skill a third time* th-that's it… I used up all my energy… *she falls down* I can't keep going…

Asuna: Kirito! (You!) Koharu just used her special ability for the third time! She is out cold! You need to hurry!

Kirito: R-right! Ready!

You: I am also ready! You and me Kirito!

Kirito: Right!

Asuna: Heaa! *she parries an attack*

Kirito and You: Switch!

As we both switch out, Kirito back begins to shine brightly as an item begins to materialize on his hand… it was the sword Liz forge for him… the Dark repulsor.

Kirito: HEAAA! *he stabs the boss*

The Gleam Eyes: REEEEEEEGH! *the boss gets taken back*

Everyone looks on in shock as Kirito now holds two swords in his hands…one had the Elucidator and the other had the Dark repulsor.

The Gleam Eyes: Grrr… *it raises its sword*

You: No you don't! Shield shape!

My sword begins to shine bright yellow as its shape begins to form into a shield.

You: Hup! *I parry the attack*

Everyone was first staring at Kirito, but now everyone stares at me as my sword that was once a one-handed sword transforms into a shield.

You: Alright, it's now or never Kirito! Switch out!

Kirito: right, here we go… Starburst Stream!

With quick reflexes, Kirito slashes through the boss six times as his two swords power him up.

Kirito: Igh! HREAAA! *he slashes the boss six times inward and then outward*

The Gleam Eyes: GREAAAAAAAA! *the boss shrieks in pain*

You: Transform! Spear shape!

My shield glows brightly as it transforms into a two-handed spear.

You: HEAAA!

Using the mobility of the spear, I smash the boss with my body and then twirl the spear as I land a four hit combo with the tip.

You: YEAAAA! *I stab its leg*

The Gleam Eyes: GREEEIIIGH! *the boss gets paralyzed*

Klein: Wh-what the hell kind of skill are those?!

Kirito: HEAA! *he slashes the Gleam eyes 8 times*

You: Transform! Dagger shape!

My two-handed spear transforms into a dagger and thanks to the practice I had with Koharu, I know all the skills there is to know about daggers. Using that knowledge, I unleash an Eternal Cyclone dagger skill and slash the boss 9 times with incredible agility.

The Gleam Eyes: GRAAAAAUUUU! *the boss shrieks in pain*

Mito: they are actually bringing the boss down?!

Koharu: Igh… looks like he finally decided to use that skill…

As we continue to land our attack, the Gleam Eyes gets back and attempts to slash at Kirito.

You: Kirito! Watch out! Transform! Bow shape!

As my dagger transforms itself into a bow, I use an arrow I got from Sinon and aim for its arm.

You: Hup! *I fire the bow*

As the bow stabs its arm, the attack gets canceled and lands an opening for Kirito.

Kirito: gotta go fast! *he stabs the boss and then slash the boss downwards*

The Gleam Eyes tries to resist the attacks and attempts to stab Kirito once more.

You: Watch out! Transform! Two-handed axe shape!

As my bow transforms into a two-handed axe, I use the weight on the blade to slash at the boss in all mighty attack.

You: GRREAAAAAA! *I slash heavily at the boss*

The Gleam Eyes: RAAAAAUUUOOO! *the boss's attack gets canceled*

Kirito: Gotta go faster! HEAAAAAAAA! *he slashes the boss sixteen more times at incredible speeds*

As Kirito landed his attack, the boss grabs the Elucidator sword and renders Kirito immovable. When the opportunity is seen, the boss tries to attack Kirito.

You: KIRITO! TRANSFORM! ONE-HANDED SWORD SHAPE!

My two-handed axe transforms back into a one-handed sword and I begin to power it up with a sword skill. But I don't stop there.

You: RUSH RECOLECTION!

My body begins to power up as a purplish aura begins to surround my body and my sword powers up with even more power.

Kirito: (Its time to end this!)

You and Kirito: HEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH! *we stab the boss*

With a brilliant flash of our swords. We both stab the boss at the same time as we both find ourselves in opposite places. As the flash begins to fade, the boss, Kirito, and I remain motionless... until finally... the boss disappears into blue polygons and the room is now completely silent...

Kirito: is it… over…?

You: Yes…

Congratulations!

As we both look at our cursors… we see that our HP bars are still in the green zone but only halfway… if it weren't for my unique ability… I don't think they would be halfway… heck, even if we did manage to survive its attack, I think we would only have 1% of life… of course, I am only speaking hypothetically…

You: Augh…

With very little energy in my body... I feel like I'm falling behind and everything goes black...

…

…

…

?: (You)…

You: Augh…

?: (You!)

You: H-Huh?!

As I open my eyes, I see that I am surrounded by stars and blue auras flowing through the sky… at least, I thought it was the sky…

You: Igh… Quinella?

Quinella: Hello (You). It's been a while.

You: yes it has… If you appear in my dreams, it means that something is about to happen, right? So what is it this time?

Quinella: I could tell you right now, but unfortunately there is no time for me to explain it to you. For now, all I can say is that you will have another dream very soon. You overused the power of your fluctlights, reaching dangerous levels. It is very important that we have this talk, so remember, very soon you will have a dream and we need to have a talk.

You: O-okay…

Quinella: Now, you are about to wake up. Be careful in the next steps of your journey. I'll see you very soon *she disappears into thin air*

As Quinella disappears into thin air, the sky begins to rotate at gentle speeds but then it begins rotating at very high speeds and a bright flash of light begins to cover my vision.

…

…

…

…

?: (You…!)

You: Augh…

?: (You…!)

You: wha…?

?: (You!)

You: H-huh?!

As I open my eyes, I see that Koharu is in tears and her hands were groping my shirt pretty tight.

You: Wha… what happened? How long was I out for?

Koharu: for three minutes… way longer then Kirito… I was really worried! *she says as she holds me close*

You: What…?

Then I look around and see that everyone, including the ALA members, are still alive. As I look to my right side, I see that Kirito is a few meters away from me and Asuna is also hugging him.

You: Kirito…

Kirito: hey man…

Klein: you were out for quite some time. I was actually worried myself.

ALA member 1: th-thank you so much! You really saved our lives!

ALA member 2: yeah, there was no way we would have made it if it weren't for you!

Corvatz: Hmph! We didn't need your help in the first place!

Klein: Uh, excuse me?! Look around you, man! You would have died if it weren't for (You). You owe him your life! Instead of saying all those nonsenses, you should be thanking him!

Corvatz: Sacrifices must be made in the name of progress…

You: progress? *I get up* you call THIS progress?! Look around you, your men are terrified and you would have died out there! Do you really think that's progress?! No, I'll tell you what it is! Its bullshit! You were reckless to think that you could take on the boss at your level!

Corvatz: I am sure we would have finished off the boss if you haven't intervened!

Klein: you know you couldn't have won there. Just how little is your humanity?

At that moment, we hear the sound of footsteps approaching the boss room.

?: what the hell do you all think you're doing?!

Kibaou, Yulier and Thinker all enter the boss room.

Klein: Kibaou?

Kibaou: he's got it right. This plan 'o yours has no respect for the lives of those under your command.

Corvatz: deputy commander, I was only trying to carry out the plan that you created for us…

Kibaou: Created?! Carried out?! That ain't how I see it! I only asked for you to help out the rookies with their levels! Not take them to a boss room!

You: Wait, these guys are rookies?!

Klein: that only makes this plan go from stupid to PSYCHOTIC!

Kibaou: even I felt a shiver down my spine when I heard about this plan 'o yours…

Yulier: Corvatz. What you've done was insane and very reckless.

Thinker: And any type of collateral damage that a recruit makes to the party is ground for dismissal.

Corvatz: B-but, if I leave… I don't know what I'll do!

You: *I sigh* alright, alright… what he did was reckless but I don't think he deserves to be kick out of the guild. What's important here is that everyone survived. I could make a suggestion, I would suggest that you revoke Corvatz of his ranking position and have someone else take the charge. Someone who is capable of leading an army.

Kibaou: *he sighs* you sure are a big softy… but alright, you are the victims here, so I guess its only fair. Ya heard him Corvatz… you are no longer the leader of the ALA army. We will have someone else take the charge and you are to wait until further orders.

Corvatz: … very well… *he says in a very shamed tone*

Thinker: we are truly sorry for any kind of trouble our guild mates have caused you, we will be taking our leave. Thank you so much for helping them…

After that, the ALA guild leaves the room and only me, Kirito, Asuna, Mito, Furinkazan and Koharu are left.

Klein: And hey, you two are not off the hook either, what was that just now?!

Kirito: … I don't think you wanna know…

Klein: oh come on, I've never seen anything like that before!

Mito: I am actually quite curious myself as well. Especially (You's) ability.

Kirito: *he looks at me*

You: *I nod at him*

Kirito: Hmm… it's an extra skill I picked up… Dual Wielding…

Klein: Whoa! And what about you, (You)?

You: Um… mine is a skill that is known as… object manipulation…

Everyone: Whoaa!

Klein: dude, are there pre-requisites?!

Kirito: if I'd known that, I would have shared it by now.

You: I had no idea if it was a skill or an object so I just assumed it was a bug at first.

Klein: none of your skills are in the info broker's skill list… hey, that means you two got a unique skill. Way to stay on the down low Kirito, you too (You). How could you keep a secret like this from your buddies?

You: it's not like I wanted to keep it a secret. I just so happened to find it on the abilities on my sword.

Kirito: about a few months ago, I was scrolling down my skills menu and it was just… there, Dual wielding.

You: Nobody but Koharu knew about this. I wanted to keep it a secret for the same reason I think Kirito wanted as well. If anyone were to find out that we had a unique skills like these…

Klein: they get pissed because you two have something they don't have...some players are like that but not me. You're right though, people would definitely get jealous of you two having something like that... *he smirks* and those too.

Klein then puts his eyes on Koharu and Asuna.

Klein: Well, it looks like you two have a lot of work to do, so keep working, young men.

Kirito: Uh… easier said than done.

You: tell me about it. There is no way I will be able to handle the conferences saying, (You)! How did you get a rare skill like that? Is there another way I can get it myself?! Will you please help me get a girlfriend?! Bleegh…

Koharu: *she giggles at my words*

Klein: Ehahaha! You'll be fine. I know it. Well, were gonna go on ahead and activate the 75th floor. You guys coming?

Kirito: in a minute… I need to lie down…

Klein: so I heard.

You: we'll be up in a moment. I just need to breath.

Klein: alright then. Welp, see ya all at the top… *he begins walking away bit stops for a moment* hey, uh… Kirito… (You)…

You: what's up?

Klein: you know how you guys stepped in and defended those army guys even if it costs your lives?

Kirito: yeah…?

Klein: Well… *he wipes away a tear* I am glad you two did… you two really are noble gamers… *he begins climbing the stairs to the 75th floor*

After a while in the dark, we all gather around and begin talking.

Kirito: Asuna… what's wrong?

Asuna: I was so scared… if you'd died… I don't know what I'd do…

Kirito: heh… what are you talking about? You're the one who jumped in first, remember?

Asuna: … I am going to take a break from the guild…

Mito: Huh?

Kirito: but why? Why would you want to take a break from the guild?

Asuna: did you forget already? I said that I was teaming up with you… *she lifts her head* with all of you…

You: So… this is it?

Koharu: after so many months?

Mito: it seems so…

You: our group is back together… heh, it's kind of funny… after almost two years…

Kirito: Hmm… okay then…

Asuna: Yes…

You: Hey, um… I don't mean to ruin the moment here but… I don't think it's a good idea to be hanging around in this area.

Mito: he's right. No telling when the big guilds will hear the news and then more players will start to come here and begin asking us questions.

Kirito: that's something I don't wish to deal with… alright, let's head back… it's been a crazy day.

Koharu: I'll say.

Mito: Come on, we should head back to our regular houses…

Everyone: Right!

And with that… another floor was cleared. And only by a small party. It's actually pretty amazing when you think about it. Of course, we did had some help and help is always important, but one things for sure… I knew that pretty soon… things were about to change… again… after all…

The next floor is floor 75…

To be continued…