Later the same day
Evening had set in. The blue sky had become a red ocean with ripples of orange clouds slowly drifting alongside vapour trails. Cold winds trickled over tree-filled hills and mountains. Bird songs echoed throughout forests and small villages. Some glided on the evening winds, rising and falling as gusts came and went. The night lights of Osaka had just begun to turn on. They collected into a distant haze of artificial light. These lights danced together like a small Tokyo with endless advertisements and banners brung many colours to the city. However, for those travelling away from the city, all of this light was like a constant sunset lying above hills.
Down one of the winding roads, where very few travelled, one car stopped on a patch of grass beside the road. The grass was mostly covered in mud and just clinging to life on the edge of a road. Headlights shone brightly off a metal barrier separating the road and the sheer cliff hiding in the darkness of an early evening. The headlights also revealed a small stone plaque resting in front of the barrier. It was not anything special. No other colours decorated the tablet except for the grey stone and black writing squeezed onto its surface. It read:
'In loving memory
Of all individuals lost protecting their loved ones
From those willing to take lives for personal gain
During the Coach Crash of June 19th 2014'
Names below this were barely visible through hardened mud and longer blades of grass. Two figures stood beside the plaque, car still running behind them. One knelt down. He lowered his head as the other placed a hand on his shoulder. They remained in silence in their black hoodless coats. The wind howled in bitter sorrow. Ahead of them, the lights of Osaka continued to grow in brightness as the Sun's light began to fade. Shadows lengthened.
"Her grave is in town." Began Sears, staring at the lights in the distance, "You can visit the graveyard on the way back to my place. Then, how about a drink on me? You'll need one after the events of the last week or so."
"Yeah…" Honda replied relieved somewhat, "That would be nice, Daisuke. Thank you. I'll get some flowers too, she always liked white roses."
Thus, as evening continued its march towards night, Sears and Honda climbed into the silver saloon. Then, they continued down the winding road without roars from the engine or screeching of pressured tyres. It was a simple, calm drive between towering hills and evergreen trees blowing gently in the harsh coastal winds. Only a few cars passed by down the road. All were at least a decade old and used primarily around small farms. Their wear and mud were as clear as day in the view of headlights. Bends and corners continued as the road climbed higher. The sun dipped between gaps in the hills. Darkness and light constantly swapped places upon the road as the miles continued.
Eventually, they reached the village. It was just as quiet as the winding road behind them. Shops had already begun to close up. Curtains were drawn as signs were flipped on their doors. Lights dimmed here as others turned on further down. Streetlamps blossomed in the late evening's light. Pavements glowed in their orange and yellow light. Luckily, Sears and Honda found a shop still open: a flower shop. Sears waited outside as Honda headed inside looking for some white roses. He scanned the shop, no the cut ones won't do. It had to be in a pot.
"You need something, dear?" An old woman, holding a walking stick, approached Honda curious as to why a young lad would be looking for flowers at this time. "I'm quite sure I have the right flower, whatever you may need."
She wore a green dress decorated in little white flower patterns running in swirls across much of the fabric. Even with a few holes here and there, the dress was holding up well.
"Ah, yes. Hi. I'm looking for some white roses. To be planted. It's for someone special who I lost long ago…"
"Hmm… Yes. I do believe I may have a few. Come come."
She beckoned him to the counter before grabbing a pot from beneath (very slowly). It was perfect: pristine in health and colour, even had some fertile soil to hunker down in. The woman smiled.
"This should do, last one in stock. I can throw in a little spade if you like, since you are such a nice lad."
"Please. I doubt I could plant a flower with my bare hands. Here, one thousand yen. Keep the change." Honda placed the note on the counter.
"You are too kind young lad! Thank you, don't forget the spade."
"I won't, thanks again!" He grabbed the rose and a small green spade before leaving. The old woman waved him goodbye, even following him to the door. Honda climbed into the passenger seat and the car pulled off gently. They vanished around a corner leaving the old woman to lock up her shop as well. But, she closed up with a grin and an extra thousand yen in pocket.
Memories came lapping back in calm waves. There was the school, barely changed in over a decade. There was the park, the old playground no longer existed, it was now just a field with some wooden benches in the middle. There was the bus stop, it had seen better times though. Weeds had grown to several feet high around the glass. Then, at last, there was the graveyard. On the outskirts of town, where the roads were only used by small tractors and open-back lorries. In fact a few were parked up a little further down this road where it became single track. Sears parked the car just outside of the gate and both of them got out.
Here it was. Upon a small hill, facing the endless mountains and hills, was the graveyard. A short gate was open. They entered. They kept together, each looking for the grave. There were plenty here, all in varying degrees of cleanliness. Some were very recent departures while others were many decades old. Row after row, still no sign. Then, Honda noticed something: a pair of crows. One perched on top of a grave stone. Another pecked around beneath the other. Even as Sears and Honda closed in, they did not flutter away. They just stayed where they were. The one pecking the mud looked up at them. It stared with both eyes. The other just kept on grooming itself without care.
This was the grave. Although somewhat faded, the name was as clear as day: Honda Erika, his little sister. Holding back tears, he knelt beside the grave while placing the rose to the side. One crow hopped up to it and poked the rose, then backed off. Honda dug up some soil in front of the stone tablet and placed the white rose there. He began talking to the tablet as Sears and the crows listened.
"I'm back Erika. I know it has been a while but… I promised I would be back and here I am, even brought your favourite flower: a white rose. You said you liked them and wanted some always beside you. So, you have now. I really wished you could see how much has changed since… since then. I couldn't face that day, even with Dad and Mum alongside me. I fled. That was all I could do, it never felt right. Now, I must bare the burden of that day. No… Not anymore. Am I forgiven for my actions? Running away from my responsibilities, harming myself more than anyone could ever do. All I have to show for it is a barely controlled split personality and being too harsh on myself. However, the recent few days have shown me the error of my ways and how to overcome those events. Yes, believe it or not, I've made new friends! And made up with Daisuke and Kei. It has been a journey and a half. One day I'm playing a game for the fun of it, the next day I have to track down a murderer. It was fun in its own twisted ways though. We won in the end. Those behind the killing were arrested and I have joined a special police force for keeping an eye on Virtual Reality. To prevent this from happening again. I guess it was fate to take a similar job to Dad…
"Yes, Mum and Dad are fine. They're currently living in England. Even through hard times, they've stuck together. We all have somehow. But, you have always remained in our hearts. Don't worry, I'll come back. Every week, I shall return with stories, the very best stories. Nothing less will do. Farewell Erika, for now. No matter what happens, I will be here…"
Honda rose back to his feet, tears still in his eyes. The crows flew off as the Sun begun to disappear over the hills to the West. Osaka's lights grew in strength against the darkness of the coming night. It was time to leave. Soon the whole valley would be coated in darkness.
"Let's go Andrew," began Sears, peering over his shoulder, "I'll cook up a nice meal for the two of us. Feel free to spend the night as well."
"Thank you… We can talk more later. I hope you've got some good games to play as well."
Thus, both of them left the graveyard. They left the white rose planted in front of her grave. It blew gently in the wind as if waving goodbye. The rose watched as the car pulled off and vanished into the village. At last, closure to the events that transpired over ten years ago. Even with the scars still visible, they continued to heal. Mourning had transformed into action. What could have been if the accident never happened? What may have occurred if the first option went ahead without issues? Perhaps another story would speak of those answers. However, those questions could rest as many residents did now as the Sun continued to fall. A chapter drawn to a close.
Yet there was still something to do. Tomorrow, a final celebration. A day to remember. Salvation for all.
"Oh, relax Shino. I've talked to some of these people before. They're alright. Been to the place often. Friendly 'n' all! Just act natural, be yourself."
Akiyama had been trying to convince Shino that meeting these other people was a good idea. He had been to the little cafe before. He had spoken to them before. He enjoyed their company. She still was not fully convinced. Even Yamamoto was on the fence about the whole idea. But, Akiyama was more than confident. They had been through a lot, just like them. Besides, having more friends you can trust is never a bad thing right?
They stood in front of the small cafe as Akiyama locked up his car. Definitely not as outlandish as Honda's, but not too far off. A Subie without major modifications. The cafe in question sat on a small road where very few travelled. An occasional bike passed and a random person walked by, however little else did. Above the red wooden door, that welcomed all customers, a pair of dice sat above a sign saying: 'Dicey Cafe'. The dice had rolled a one and a six respectively. Small piles of cardboard boxes where stacked up just beneath a window, they were empty except for some labels. Several posters littered the front as well, most were written in English. "Fine I'll enter first. You lot should take the initiative sometimes…"
He opened the door. It was like entering a little slice of the USA. Behind the counter, several shelves were filled entirely with glass bottles (each one a different brand from far and wide). Some bottles were kept in glass front fridges, to keep their chill. Half a dozen wooden stools sat beside the counter, waiting to be used. Four round wooden tables were equally spaced out, each able to fit five or six customers with room to spare. Some bulbs hung from thin chains, lighting up much of the cafe. Then, beside a remarkably well maintained jukebox, was a board partly covered in fliers and posters. It contained everything from postcards from the Rockies to a slightly torn poster of Uncle Sam. Nearly everything here was wooden and welcoming to each customer that entered.
A few were already here, chatting away with drinks at hand. They formed a small group at the bar, just the three of them alongside one working behind the bar. Only with the creaky door opening, those already inside noticed another three had just entered.
"It was about time you guys showed up!" began adolescent girl with brown hair, "You're lucky I only ate two slices of apple pie!"
"Hey, that's no way to first greet our guests." Interrupted the male with black hair, jumping up to his feet, "There's only three of you?"
"Let's just say Seiba is running a little late, he'll be here soon." Replied Akiyama, keeping the door open for Yamamoto and Shino, "The usual please Mills."
The three walked further into the cafe, the door closing behind them. It was time for introductions.
"Just for formalities; I'm Akiyama Kujo, also known as Subaru, brains of the operations. This little one is Yamamoto Ahmya, also known as Starbug, explosives specialist. Then, one of the stars of the show, Shino Asada, also known as Sinon. The joint winner of the third Battle of Bullets."
The three bowed in respect. The three already in the cafe bowed too before introducing themselves, "I'm Kirigaya Kazuto, Kirito is what I usually go by. These two are my friends I met during my time in SAO. She Shinozaki Rika, aka Lisbeth, the blacksmith Swindler…"
Shionzaki threw a punch that missed, while nearly falling off her stool.
"And that's Yuuki Asuna, the berserker healer."
"P-pleasure to meet you all. Berserker..."
"Some friends you have here Kazuto. Ahmya, Asada, you want something to drink? I'm buying." Akiyama was surprisingly confident for a place the other two never knew he went to, even if it was just a block down the road. "Don't worry, I know what this place has."
Thus, Yamamoto and Shino placed their orders with Mills (the owner of the cafe) and sat around a single table. The orders came quick with round glasses being placed on the table with a mat underneath. Ice floated in the drinks, chinking past one and another. The conversation quickly switched to the topic of their recent adventures. Akiyama led the charge with a brief explanation of the events of the Battle of Bullets. Shino and Yamamoto joined in occasionally to correct some small facts, or to steer him back on track after going off on a tangent. Minute by minute, as the ice melted in their drinks, he continued. His hands acted out some of the situations, like the parachuting from the skyscraper. The other three watched in awe. From the exploding bike to the final duel, every piece was an adventure in itself. Kirito even smirked a little at the final duel done with swords. However, then the final points came up…
"When the BoB was over, we managed to find out the player name: Sterben. Or German for 'to die'. I suppose he fully knew what he was doing from day one. Alternatively, putting something in German just sounded cooler."
"I agree," Yuuki started, "But, I wouldn't put too much thought into the name for the avatar. Many would just choose whatever they find cool at the time."
"Ah that explains it," Shinozaki butted in, "This whole time I thought you chose your name for your avatar because you lacked imagination."
"Zip it!" Yuuki gave Shinozaki a nudge, causing her to nearly spill her drink. Yamamoto laughed alongside Shinozaki. Yuuki followed them into laughter as well. Akiyama and Kirito just looked at each other awkwardly until the laughter eventually subsided.
"Anyway," continued Shinozaki, forcing herself out of laughter, "it is always great to meet other girl VRMMO players!"
"You said it. I hope we can be great friends Asada and Ahmya." Her smile was addicting. One couldn't help but smile alongside her. Which is exactly what Shino and Yamamoto did. They smiled along with her without much of a reason why except she was. Shino looked away. Silence fell on the cafe except for the squeaking of glass being cleaned. It was time, but where was Honda?
A sound began from outside. An engine.
"Oh hang on," Akiyama moved closer to the window, "that is the throb of a turbo charged, inline four engine. The sound that heralds the imminent arrival of a Sabre!"
And it was. A royal blue saloon (with a spoiler to die for) pulled up next to Akiyama's Subie. The engine switched off as multiple doors swung open. Honda gave Akiyama a nod as he closed the door. Other figures were there too. Akiyama gave Yuuki the same nod. It was time.
The door creaked open. Honda entered. He swung his keys around a finger that sometimes caught on a thick winter coat (completed with a furry hood). He looked over at the group.
"Sorry for missing the initial meet-and-greet. Had some business to attend to first."
"Was Osaka nice?" Asked Shino, unaware of what was just around the corner.
"It was a sight and a half. Truly beautiful, especially at night." Honda stayed beside the door, hands in pockets, "I went into the mountains, to my old village. The person I wanted to meet… Was my sister, Erika. With Daisuke, we visited her grave. I talked to her about what happened since then. I think she understood my actions and enjoyed them. Finally, I could face my past in new light. I am… forgiven. Now, Shino, as a group we think you should to. You need to forgive your past and live outside of their shadows."
The others nodded while Shino still remained unaware. It hadn't quite clicked in just yet for her. "I'm not following you Honda. What exactly do you mean?"
"Allow me to explain," Yuuki took control of the conversation. "We wanted to help you. So, we paid a visit to that town you once lived in and talked to a certain person. They wanted to meet you after all of this time."
Honda followed swiftly. "I know it will hurt for you, returning to the past. But, believe me, what they say will lay to rest what happened. I am truly sorry for hiding this from you but this is necessary. Like what I did yesterday, I know you can do it!"
"How could you? How did you find out?" By now, Shino had erupted into emotion, tears and a hint of anger. She rose from her seat and charged for the door before being blocked by Honda. He was adamant.
"I was too curious for my own good. I looked into your background. I found out from the police report made on that day. Then, it struck me, why everything happened how it did: the response from the gun, the clingy friend and being like no other person I ever met. Please, forgive me for my actions. But I had to do what I did."
"Who is this person?" Shino asked, nervously looking back at the rest of the group. "What did they want to tell me?"
Then, Honda opened the door to the cafe. "You can come in now."
Shino backed up as two people entered the cafe. One was a woman in her thirties with shoulder-length black hair. She wore a beige coat over a light purple shirt. The other was a young girl no older than four. She shared the woman's brown eyes and black hair (though it was tied into two braided pigtails). They seemed familiar to Shino. She was nudged by Honda to take a seat. Thus, she did, opposite of the two guests. A silence fell once again on the cafe. Honda stood behind Shino while Shinozaki and Yuuki gave up their seats for the guests. Kirito remained seated along with Yamamoto and Akiyama.
The two bowed.
"I'm sorry, do I know you?" Shino finally broke the silence.
"Sachie Oosawa. I would like to introduce you to my daughter, Mizue, she's four years old." The woman began, her voice was as soft as a freshly washed blanket. "I'm not sure if you remember, but I used to work in the post office."
Suddenly, the memories came flooding back. She was her. The woman behind the till, with a gun pointed at her. Shino's eyes widened.
"I'm so sorry, this is really hard for me. I should've done this years ago. I never apologised or thanked you for what you did… You see, on that day you didn't just save my life but also her life. I was pregnant at the time. I cannot thank you enough for saving us both!"
The woman bowed even steeper, quickly followed by the girl. Tears trickled down her cheeks. Shino couldn't react. What could she say? What should she say? She saved another life that day unknowingly.
Honda then got her attention, "Shino, it is time to let go. You've been blaming yourself, beating yourself up, ever since that day. But, no longer. The guilt needs to be erased now, what you did saved lives and preventing something much worse from occurring. Be proud of that. It isn't wrong to blame yourself entirely, I did for my own actions. However, once you except what happened at face value, then you can escape its shadow. You can forgive yourself and move on. Please. You deserve much better."
He began to lose his composure. The usual Honda's persona had been partly shattered. Yet, even now, he attempted to keep his composure. After Honda finished with his little speech, Mizue raised to her feet and walked towards Shino. She reached into her small bag and grabbed out a A4 sheet of paper. Then, she opened it out to face Shino. It was a drawing of three people done by her. On the top, the paper read: 'To big sister Shino'.
"I made it myself!" the girl spoke, gifting the paper over, "Thank you for saving Mommy and me! We love you! Hehe!"
Shino grasped the paper tighter. Tears dripped onto it. She was simply overwhelmed. All of that time she blamed only herself for that time, could now be left in the past along with that event. What could she do except cry? What could she do except grasp the paper tighter? Mizue held her right hand with a giggle. Then, the left with another giggle. She was forgiven for her actions.
Honda walked to Yamamoto and Akiyama, smiling from ear to ear. "Thank you guys for helping to pull all of this off! Couldn't have done without all of you."
"You've never pulled a speech like that before. How did you do it?" Akiyama asked.
"Well, I didn't write the speech, got help from this fella." He nudged Kirito, nearly making him spill his drink, "Got in contact yesterday thanks to Seijirou. Though I do wonder what you would've done in my place."
"Not too sure," Kirito laughed, "I would have definitely mained the photon sword though. Sounds like my style. Maybe give it a little while, after I am cleared from therapy, I might join you lot."
"Good luck!" Roared Yamamoto, "Got a few years experience going in Sabot platoon! You'll need to be given the ropes first."
"I'll drink to that." Akiyama added.
"Drinks all around!" Honda could get use to this. More friends than he ever had, helped a friend overcome past trauma and even got a new job. However, this was only the beginning. Many more adventures would await Sabot platoon and their new friends. Hundreds of tales ready to be told. For now, they could relax knowing this chapter of their lives was over. Especially Honda and Shino. Sabretooth's Tale had concluded with a pint of the finest British beer. Everyone cheered, some cried. Together, they let the day pass. Tomorrow would be another tale.
Writer's Notes:
Panzer_Bros:
Thus, the final credits roll over this tale. I do hope you have enjoyed reading this as much as I have been writing each chapter. I decided to have a somewhat similar ending to the show as I believed it was done pretty well in the show and would work here too. Of course, I did alter some events and introductions to allow it to flow better with the rest of the story (that's the hope anyway).
As for the future, I don't plan to continue with a sequel. Personally I think there is no need. But, if demand is enough, I shall continue Sabretooth's Tale. But, for now, thank you for reading.