Sword Art Online Alicization: Lycoris
Part 6
*Let's Continue Where We Left Off*
"Thanks for the invite, Kirito." Sonic said
"No problem." Kirito said
"Kirito! Eugeo!" Ronie said
"Did you check your equipment and medicine supply?"
"Yeah, we're all set!" Ronie said
"And we memorized some element creation skills too!" Tiese said
"Great. Then let's get started." Eugeo said
"-Okay!"
"-Okay!"
The five then headed towards their destination as usual.
"There's our target, Ronie. You ready?" Kirito said
"Sure am! I'll take him out suing Aincrad Style!" Ronie said
"Let's go, Tiese!"
"I'll do everything I can to assist you, Eugeo!" Tiese said
"Let's get this show on the road!" Sonic said
The beast Fanged Fox turns and looks at the five and soon charges at them. Kirito and Sonic both charge at the Fanged Fox as well and perform a synchronize attack at the beast from the sides of it. Their attack dealt good hits on the beast as it roars in pain. Eugeo, Tiese, and Ronie all charge towards the Fanged Fox and attack it using the new set of skills they learn from their trainers. Ronie, using the Aincrad Style that Kirito taught her slashes the beast in ways the beast couldn't attack her. She uses this to her advantage and continues attacking the beast. While Ronie continues to distract the beast, Tiese charges up her sword and performs a 4-hit sword attack at the Fanged Fox, dealing a good amount of damage to it. Eugeo performs a quick attack on the Fanged Fox, leaving scratch marks behind. Sonic and Kirito both dash at the Fanged Fox and unleashes powerful sword attacks which left an X mark behind soon after. The Fanged Fox counters by slashing its claws and both but Sonic chops off the Fanged Fox's handoff. The Fanged Fox roars in pain as Kirito charges up and performs Aincrad Style at the Fanged Fox, dealing massive e damage to it. Tiese and Ronie both release powerful sword attacks on the Fanged Fox, who was getting tired from the attacks. Eugeo finishes off by charging his sword and performing a power 3 sword attack on the beast and dealing massive damage to it. Soon after, the Famnged Fox cried out loud and falls to the ground before disappearing in thin air.
"Is everyone alright?" Kirito said
"Yes, we're fine."
"I'm sorry, Ronie and Tiese. I said I'd help, but I put you in danger..." Eugeo apologizing
"P-Please don't apologize! We were the ones who chose to come along." Tiese said
"That's right. And we woudln't have had so much trouble if we were strong enough." Ronie said
"No, I never said..."
"Anyway, we're all safe, and that's all that matters, right? We were caught off guard, but next time we'll be more careful. are you game?" Kirito said
"Yes, of course!" Ronie said
"We'll try to improver more by then too!" Tiese said
"We need to train hard too, Eugeo." Kirito said
"Yeah... You're right."
"Okay, we took out our target, so let's head back to the academy."
"Sounds good to me." Sonic
The four start walking back to the location of the Academy. Sonic follow's them from behind and walk's with them as normal. As he walking and minding his business, he notices his sword acting strange. He stops and takes it out from the scabbed and analyses it.
*Back At The Academy*
"Why don't we sit down and rest here for a bit?" Eugeo said
"Yeah, I agree. You two did a great job hunting that beast." Kirito said
"You think so?" Ronie said
"I sure do. You probably could've handed the whole thing yourselves." Kirito said
"Oh no, we're not there yet..." Tiese said
"Before I forget, you said you wanted to talk to us about something?" Eugeo said
"Yes, I do. I have a request for you and Kirito, if you don't mind." Tiese said
"Sure, what do you need?" Eugeo said
"Some time ago, you mentioned a process for a page to request a new mentor. I was hoping you could help by expressing your support to the administration." Tiese said
"Wait, are you saying... one of you doesn't want to be our pages anymore?" Eugeo said
"N-No, not at all!"
"Oh, heavens no. We could never hope for better mentors." Ronie said
"In fact, there are many students who wish they could study under you... I even heard others say they wanted to study under Sir Sonic before he left. We're asking for your help on behalf of a girl in our dorm, Frenica. She's a lovely girl, who's hardworking and very talented if a bit shy." Tiese said
"However, the Elite Disciple who selected her to be his page is a very strict man, and he's getting worse. A careless mistake results in hours of harsh punishment now. And he's begun demanding... services... not especially appropriate for school." Ronie said
"Ugh... Now you're making me feel bad leaving the academy. I feel like I'm the enemy of this situation for leaving and letting a page be treated like that." Sonic said
"It's alright Sonic, it's not your fault. Don't get it in your head as a bad person." Kirito said
"I hhope not." Sonic said
"Anyway, Being an Elite Disciple,e doesn't give up the right to control your page, dose it?"
"No. And he's been giving her orders that are... not illegal, but inappropriate..." Tiese said
"You don't need to say anymore. You've made it very clear Frenica needs our help. TO dissolve a page's appointment, you need both an admin's and the mentor's approval." Eugeo said
"So, uh, who is Frenca's mentor, then?" Kirito asks
"The Second-Seat Elite Discplem Humbert Zizek."
"Him again, huh?" Sonic now angry
"Guess Eugeo giving him a beating didn't teach him how to act like a decent man." Kirito said
"I didn't give him a beating. It was a draw. But maybe that's what set him off?" Eugeo said
"So, um, you're saying Elite Disciple Zizek is upset about now winning so he, um..."
"He's taking it out on her?"
"Yes, that. He's taking his frustration out on Frencia by punishing her need, ordering her to perform humiliating acts for his entertainment. I don't... I just... I don't get it. My father always told me that we must never take our privileges for granted. That those will privilege must use it to better the live of those without. And that when war breaks out, we must be the first to die for them. House Zizek has a big manor in Ward 4 and a great deal of property outside the city. Shouldn't Elite Disciple Zizke then be working to support lower-ranked nobles? Though it;'s not written in the Taboo Index, my father always said... that a noble must always consider the effects his actions have on others. While his actions aren't in violation of the Taboo Index or the school rules... Frenica was crying in her bed all night. How is that right?" Tiese said
"Your father sounds like a wonderful man. Hope I get to meet him someday. Someone has to put a stop to Humbert and in this case, that someone..." Kirito said
"...Is the three of us." Eugeo said
"We won't let that jerk continue treating Frenica like that anymore." Sonic said
"I'm... I'm starting to understand what you taught me, Kirito. As people, we must maintain our own set of morals, out personal guiding principles, and use them to understand the purpose of the laws and why they exist, rather than blindly follow them." Ronie said
"That's exactly right, Ronie. Our mind is our strongest weapon. It's more powerful than any sword or technique. The right answer isn't the law placed before us, but what we find in our hearts. Well, we should head back. Eugeo, Sonic, and I will figure out how to deal with Humbert." Kirito said
"Thank you so much."
"Do you have any ideas what to do, though?" Eugeo said
"Not yet. He's not gonna stop bullying his page because we tell him to, but..."
"What?"
"Raios isn't an idiot. He's a jerk and a weasal, but he's got a functioning brain. Do you think he would just sit by and watch Humbert mistreat his page? They room together, so he must realize these rumors will hurt his reputation. And with his prideful Raios is, you think that would hurt as much as formal santions." Kirito said
"Is it possible Humbert I just so upset that Raios can't do anything to stop him? Well, if I'm, responsible for that, I should at least have a word with him." Eugeo said
"That might be what they want. This whole thing could be an elaborate plot to get back at you, Eugeo." Kirito said
"No... There's no way... Look, let's just start warning them. And if they're not cooperative, we can put in the request for Frenica's transfer."
"Yeah, that sounds good."
"But I highly doubt this would be easy." Sonic said
*Inside*
"I'' start off the conversation. You two stand behind me and look intimidating, you two." Eugeo said
"Oh, that I'm good at." Kirito said
"Alright, were ready." Sonic said
"Alright, let's go."
Eugeo knock's on the door of Raios and Humbert's dorm.
"Swordsmen Eugeo, Kirito, and Sonic, here to speak with Swordsman Zizek."
"Have you no manners?! It's proper to make a written appointment before barging in!" Humbert said
"Calm yourself, Humbert. We train under the same roof. Let them pass." Raio said
"You'd better be grateful for Raios' generosity!"
"Now, what business have you here on this day of rest, my dear friend Eugeo?" Raios said
"I have been aware of some rather unpleasant rumors regarding Zizek... and I wished to put in a word of warning before a peer's name was tainted." Eugeo explaining
"Is that so? My, I am astonished and utterly thrilled to hear your concern for my friend. Regrettably, I am not privy to any such whispers. Care to enlighten me?" Raios said
"I have been advised that Zizek is engaging in illicit behavior with his page. Is there any truth to that accusation?"
"Never have I been more insulted! A houseless famboy, accusing the son f a fourth-rank house of illicit behavior?!" Humbert said
"Now, now. Lower your voice, Humbert. Our upbringings differ, but we are peers now, so you cannot claim to be insulted. Unless, of course, his words are libelous. Where, might I ask, did you hear to this?" Raios said
"Neither of us wishes to waste needless time on this matter, so no playing games. The matter was brought to me directly by a student who rooms with Zziek's page." Eugeo said
"Oho? So let me get this straight... Humbert's page asked her roommate to file a complaint with you, Eugeo?"
"Not exactly, no. Can I take that as a denial of the accusation of uncouth behavior, then?" Eugeo said
"Uncouth? Be more clear in your words, Eugeo. Say he violate the school rules."
"It doesn't have to be forbidden by the rules to be inappropriate!" Eugeo said
"Ohoho. Then what "inappropriate" actions do you claim Humbert has done to Frenica?" Raios said
"W-Well..."
"Goodness, what a charade. What say you, Humbert? Have you done as he claims?"
"Goddesses, no! I haven't the slightest idea what he might be referring to! There have been no illicit engagements between myself and Frencia. After all, she has never once raised her voice in objection! Nevertheless, I may have asked her to perform a few insignificant services. After our match, Eugeo, I saw the light and turned my focus to my training. My prior regimen was not nearly as intense, so my muscles ache horribly. As such, I have asked Frenica to massage me during my night bath. And as to not dirty her uniform, I kindly allow her to do so in ger undergarments. I cannot begin to understand how you might claim my actions to be inappropiate." Humbert said
Sonic looks at Humbert with an angry face while holding his sword, squeezing it tightly as he was getting angrier at what Humbert said. As he was holding it, the sword starts to act weird and glow yellow once again. Sonic look's at it as it was getting brighter.
"What is happening to my sword? Why is it always turning yellow for a few seconds? Is it a sign or something? Can it be... that it also came with me here in this world?" Sonic thought while looking at his sword
"If this behavior continues, we will initiate a formal investigation," Eugeo said
"By all means, do as you please." Raios
*Outside*
"Alright, take a second to calm down, Eugeo."
"Honestly. I'm surprised you didn't bow at them first."
"I held back since I still think there's more to this," Kirito said
"Oh yeah, that completely slipped my mind. So, what did you notice?"
"Humbert is, well, he's Humbert, but Raios was very clearly trying to provoke you," Kirito said
"You mean he let Humbert run amok because he knew I would eventually confront them?" Eugeo said
"Yeah. And I'm guessing they're pretty satisfied with the results now. We just need to prepare the appears to start an investigation if he continues." Kirito said
"Yeah... Let's head back to our rooms."
"Also, Eugeo."
"Hm?"
"If they say anything while we're not around, try to stay cool, okay?" Kirito said
"R-Right, need to keep my head, yeah."
*The Next Day*
"Reporting to Elite Disciple Eugeo! I have completed today's cleaning duty!" Tiese said
"Excellent work. Thank you."
"Oh no, not at all. This is merely my job as your page!"
"So, um, can we talk for little?"
"Y-Yes, of course."
"Last night, I delivered a complaint to Humbert about his actions toward Frenica. In all likelihood, he'll back down and stop giving her outrageous orders. And I'll make sure he apologizes as well."
"Oh, that's wonderful! Thank you so much! Frencia should be thrilled." Tiese said
"As I mentioned before, this situation is the result of my math with Humbert. His tormenting of Frenica was a way to get me to come in and complain to him, which will allow him to have me formally punished for my disrespectful actions. In other words, Frenica was just caught in the crossfire of Humbert's feud with me. So I'd like to apologize to her as well. Could you possibly arrange a meeting?" Eugeo request
"I... see... What happened isn't your fault, Eugeo. I will, however, tell her what you said." Tiese said
"Thank you so much. I can't apologize enough for what she's gone through." Eugeo said
"Don't! Zizek is to blame, particularly of to was a scheme to entrap you, Eugeo. Besides, this isn't the first time he's mistreated her, either. However, too afraid to upset him, she hasn't spoken up until now. She believed he could cause damage to her house or change her parents' Callings." Tiese said
"That would be frightening, yes..."
"I've been thinking about this for a while. Why would Zizek want to hurt Frenica? He has no reason to hate her or hold a grudge, so what would drive him like that? Kirto said that a noble must behave in a manner worthy of being called "nobles." But I don't believe there is anything noble about Zizek's actions. True nobility is not a rank, but caring about others. Doing what's right." Tiese said
"Yeah, you're right..."
"I'm going to get stronger, Eugeo. Enough to say the things that need to be said." Tiese said
"Yeah, me too. Strong enough to nobly protect the people who most need it." Eugeo said
*A Few Days Later*
"We're supposed to go out on an extracurricular lesson with our pages."
"Man, I expected them to be here before I got here. Guess, I was mistaken this time." Sonic said
"They sure are running late, huh?" Kirito said
"They seemed excited. Maybe it's taking longer than expected to get ready?"
"Maybe. We've still got time, so let's give them a little longer." Kirito said
"Yeah, let's. Oh, Kirito, have you seen the bulletin board for this week yet?"
"No, not yet. Why anything exciting?" Kirito asks
"Someone from the Woolsburg house won the FDour-empire Unification Tournament!" Eugeo said
"Huh."
"Wow... I'm happy for them." Sonic said
"You don't sound very interested."
"I only care about who;s entering the year we do."
"I mean, that's fair, but... Alright, fine, I'll change the subject."
"Thanks."
"So, isn't it about time you decide on a name for your sword?" Eugeo said
"Hey, I'm working on it..."
"Do it quickly. It's disprespect to call it "The Black One" forever."
"Mmm... Where Sonic and I came from, swords just came with names. or at least, I think they did." Kirito said
"Hey, Sonic, I have been noticing your sword acting differently latly. Care to explain why?" Eugeo said
"I don't know. For the past few days, it's been glowing longer and longer. I don't know what it's trying to do but soon, it's gonna do something to itself." Sonic said
"Hey, Eugeo, is that sound what I think it is?"
"Yep, it is. They should be here by now."
"Wonder what's taking them so long." Kirito said
"Neither Tiese nor Ronie have ever been late to a meeting before." Eugeo said
"Something feels off. I'm gonna go check the Primary Trainee dorm. You wait here! Sonic, come with me just in case." Kirito before running
"Got it."
The two-headed off to try to find Tiese and Ronie, leaving Eugeo behind,
"H-Hey! Wait!" I swear, they are such handfuls... I understand why they are worried, though. Both of them are late without a word..."
"Excuse me..."
"Oh, thank the goddesses. i was wor-"
"Might you be Elite Discple Eugeo?" The Primary Trainee Girl said
"Oh, y-yeah... And you are?"
"M-My name is Frenica Cesky. I'm a Primary Trainee. I-I Apologize for imposing upon you, but I didn't know wh else to go to..."
"Oh, so you're Frenica."
"I am eternally grateful for your help with the matter with Elite Disciple Zizek." Frencia said
"Has Humbert done anything else you're not comfortable with since then?" Eugeo said
"He, um... he as ordered me to perform a service would rather not describe. T-To be honest, I would rather quit the academy than deal with this any longer. Whichj i also told Tiese and Ronie... and they went to speak with Zizek themselves."
"Oh no..."
"But they still haven't come back... and I ... I don't know what to do..." Frenica said
"Alright, I'll go check on them. You 2ait here and tell Kirito and his friend to head to Humbert's room if they come back." Eugeo said
"I-I will. Thank you."
"Was this his real goal? To get to our pages, and not me? Either way. i need to hurry over to Humbert's room."
Eugeo runs as fast he can to Humbert's room.
*At Raios and Humbert's Room*
"You certainly took your sweet time, Elite Disciple Eugeo. Please, come inside."
Eugeo enters and his eyes widen as notices Tiese and Ronie tied up on the bed.
"Tiese... Ronie... What is the meaning of this, Raios?! Why are our pages tied up?!"
"Primary Trainee Schrinen and Arabel gave us little another choice, my friend. They not only barged into our room, but they treated us with great disrepsect." Raios said
"R-Regardless of what they did, tying them up is excessive."
"Haha... hahaha... HAHAHAHAHA! Incredible! He believed this to be the extent of their punishment."
"N-No!"
"Stop!"
"Don't move, peasant! We have a right to justice according to Basic Imperial LAw and the Taboo Index! One more step and you will be punished for obstructing our judicial authority!"
Eugeo holds his face as his right eye started hurting a lot.
"Ugh..."
"N-Nop, please, no!"
"I can't move, and my eye tingles... This is just like what happened when... Am I going to have to go through that ye again?!"
"Stop... Help... Please, help, Eugeo! Eugeo!" Tiese cried out
Eugeo's eyes start glitching intensely
"Urgh... Ngh... Aaah! GRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!"
Eugeo yells in pain as he takes out his sword and his right eye explodes. He then charges at Humbert and slashes him.
"Ngh... Aaa... AAAAAAAAAAH! M-My... My arm! Blood... SO much blood! My Life is... My Life is decreasinnnnnng! R-Raios! Heal me with an art! No, that's not enough! Give me some of your life!"
"Oh, stop your crying, Humbert. You'' be fine. Losing an arm isn't going to kill you. Just use a rope to tie it up. But enough of that. It was hat farmboy who cut off your arm, Humbert. Ah, how beautiful. Never before have I seen a man violate so great a taboo. Judicial authority only applies to lower-rank nobles and peasants on your property, but that changes with Index violations. Haha, I've never beheaded a man before... But neither have my father o grandfather. Today, my strength grows even greater. Elite Disciple Eugeo... No, Eugeo the Heinous! By judicial authority. I, Raios Antinous of House Antinous, sentence you to death! Offer your Life unto the goddesses as penance for your sin!"
Raios raises his and swings down at Eugeo. However, he was pushed back as Kirito and Sonic block his attack from killing Eugeo.
"You guys..."
"Draw your sword, Raios. We won't let you lay a finger on Eugeo." Kirito said
"We don't need to do this." Sonic said
Sonic's sword starts to glow once again, but this time. It was
"Oh, how I've beenwaiting for you two. It's too bad you missed all the fun! The farmboy is no longer a student of this academy or a citizen of the empire. He is a criminal in violation of the Taboo Index! And as heir to House Antinous and first seat at the academy. I have the right to administer his punishment! Stand back as his head falls to the ground like your precious flowers!" Raios shouted
"None of those things apply to me. I follow my own rules, no one else. And one of those rules, is although violence is never the answer. A situation like this is! Now, face me with this skill I been keeping hiden from everyone!" Sonic said
"Save those innoncent lives." A female voice said
"That's my goal." Sonic said
Moments later, Sonic's feet start to glow yellow, and a blue aura swirl around him. Soon after, shining armor begins to cover up Sonic's body. His sword begins to turn into a gold and silver sword, a ruby in the center a glowing outer blade around the blade. His true form has been finally revealed. Excalibur Sonic. Eugeo starred at Sonic with a shocked look on his face.
"What is that skill? I never seen anything like this before. Has he been an Integrity Knight in secret? No, Integrity Knights don't wear these kinds of armor. And that sword, it transform from the black one... but how?"
"Beautiful form, Sonic. Bravo. You finally revealed your true form for a thing like this? I'm really flatter!" Raios said
"Like we give a rat ass about taboos and noble privilege. Eugeo's out friend, and you're just some scumbag who's no better than a goblin."
Kirito's sword begins to glow as a green aura flows around him. A red aura swirls around Raios as he charges his sword.
"Oh, heavens. Am I truly getting three little farmboys violatimg the Index for me today? And I get to punish all of you together! What a beautiful day this is. Stacia's guiding light shines upon me!"
"Come at us Raios! Time to pay you back for more than a year's worth of your abuse!"
"Show us your true strength!" Sonic shouted
Moments later, the three start clashing swords over and over with powerful slashes.
"Nh... gh... GAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH! My... my arms! My arrrrms! Are bleed... are bleeding! Humbeeeeeeert! The blood! Stop the blood! Untie your arm and tie mine up!" Raios cried out
"N-No! My life will decrease! That command is in violation of the Taboo Index!"
"You would dare! Humbeeeeeert! You bastard... But... my blood... Humbert, you... Taboo... Blood... But... Life..."
"What's happening to him?"
"Raios is ina position where he has to choose between his life and the index... In his mind, his life is worth more than anything, but the Taboo Index is absolute." Kirito sakd
"Aagh! Taboo... Life... Blood... Taboooooo... Life... taboo life taboo life tatataboo life taboo lifliflife ttttttaboolife LIF LIF LEF LEF-"
Moments later, Raios falls to the ground, motionless.
"E-Eeek! R-Raios... is dead... Y-You two killed him! You murderers! You... You monsters!"
Humbert run's out of the room yelling and screaming.
"*Sigh* It had to be done." Sonic clean his sword from the blood and putting his sword back to it's scabbed
"I'm sorry... I'm so sorry, Eugeo. This... This is all my fault..."
"Don't blame yourself, Tiese. This wouldn't have happened if I were more observant." Eugeo said
"S-Still, I..."
"It's fine. I'm just glad you're okay. And I'm sorry you had to go through that. Humbert called... called me a murderer... a monster... He's right... Kirito, I'm..."
"No! You're human, Eugeo! You're human. You struggle through life and make mistakes like both Sonic, I, and anyone else!" Kirito said
*The Next Day*
"How's your eye doing, Eugeo?" Kirito said
"I can see out of it now, all thanks to Ms. Azurica's healing art." Eugeo said
"That's great to hear. She was such a big help, and seemed to see us leave." Kirito said
"Yeah. In her eyes, we were her studemts to the end, not just heinous crimianls." Eugeo said
"And she left us with some interesting nuggest of information, too."
"Yes, she sure did."
"As I recall... "In short order, you come to see the truth of this world. The Tabo Index and Axiom Church were made by man's hand, not the goddesses." Kirito said
"And then something about her never being able to break "the Seal of the Right Eye."
"But because you did, you'll be able to make it farther than her. And I agree."
"The seal of the Right Eye... That must be what binds people to the Taboo Index. In order to save Ronie and Tiese, Eugeo decired the law and broke the seal. But why use a seal like that if your gosl is to push people beyoond their limit?"
"I'm sorry, Kirito. You brought me all the way here and I messed it all up." Eugeo apologizing
"Ms. Azurica told us that something was going to heppen when we reach that tower. And we're on our way there now... We're heading to the Central Cathedral. A lot earlier than we originally planned, too. And there we'll find Alice." Kirito said
"Yeah... You're right."
"Kirito! Eugeo! An ambassador is here from the Axiom Church! Prepare for departure!"
"Where's Sonic?" Eugeo said
"He said he'll be with us. But not forced to be taken over there." Kirito said
*Outside*
"There's a dragon here... which means our escort is an Integrity Knight." Eugeo said
"We'll find out soon enough."
"Elite Discple Eugeo, of North Centoria Imperial Swordcraft Academy." Eugeo said
"Kirito, likewise."
"Axiom Church of Centoria, Integrity Knight- Alice Synthesis Thirty."
Eugeo's eyes widen after he heard the Integrity Knight's name.
"Alice? Is that you? Is that really you, Alice? Alice."
Alice knocks Eugeo back.
"Eugeo!"
"Watch yourself. I have beem authorized to reduce your Life by up to seventy percent. If you attempt to touch me again without permission, I shall sever your hand." Alice said
Sonic, who was hiding behind a tree and eavesdropping on the three. While also analyzing this new female swordsman. Kirito slightly turns and notices the golden armor Sonic eavesdropping from behind a tree. Sonic signs him with shush as he watches from behind. Kirito slowly looks back at Alice.
"What is he doing?"
"That armor, sword. Color hairstyle. Look's like those female swordsmen I fought when I was in that werid world with heroes and villains from other worlds. However, this one is no joke and can actually kill. So if I ever duel witg her. Which will be earlier, I will need to actually try. Show her the true meaning of a swordsman..." Sonic thought
"Nevertheless... I intended to take thirty percent of your Life with that strike... but you managed to evade half of it bare-handed. Befitting of the title Elite Disciple... or perhaps the great sin of murder." Alice said
"I take it that knight is the Alice you're been searching for?" Kirito said
"Yeah..."
"Welll, we'd better do as she says for now. We'll be able to find out mors at the Central Cathedral" Kirito said
"Rise and come with me. Elite Discole Eugeo, Elite Disciple Kirito- You are accused of Taboo violation. After an inquisition, you shall be executed. However, there's another one involved in this but isn't here with us. A runaway as always, once he's caught. Will make sure he doesn't see the light of day ever again." Alice said
Sonic, hearing what he just said about him and what they'll do to him, slowly reaches for his sword from its scabbed, but stops midway and takes a quiet deep breath. Moments later, Tiese and Ronie ran towards the three.
"Tiese..."
"Ronie!"
"No! Stay back!"
"M-Madam Knight... may we ask you something?" Tiese asks
"We wish to deliever to Eugeo and Kirito their swords." Ronie said
"Very well. However, I shall retain the blades, as they are not allowed to carry weapons. Additionally, I will grant you one minute to speak with them if you so desire." Alice said
"I'm so sorry, Eugeo... This... This is all my fault... If I hadn't done something so stupid." Tiese tearing up
"No, Tiese, stop. You did the right thing. I'm responsible for it turing out like this. You don't need to apologize." Eugeo said
"I'll... I'll be the ome to rescue you this time, Eugeo. I'll work my butt off... become Integrity Knight... and set you free. So just wait. I promise... I promise I'll..."
"I made you lunch, Kirito. If you get hungry, please eat this." Ronie said
"Thank you, Ronie."
"Your time is up. Get back."
"Kirito? Alice? Where do you go... Stop hiding and let's play together. Come on, come out already. I swear, I'm not... angry..."
"Hey, let's head back now. He'll find out." Young Kirito said
"We still have time. A little longer... just a little bit, okay?" Young Alice said
"But... why... Hey, to me, you guys mean more than anything."
*Central Cathedral Dungeons*
"Kirito and Eugeo were imprisoned beneath Central Cathedral. Sonic was still at large for the Integrity Knights but quietly entered the Cathedral on his own no problem and met us at the dungeon soon after. Sonic breaks Kirito and Eugeo out of the dungeon with his new sword."
"This sword can cut through anything. And when I mean everything, I mean everything." Sonic said
"Was that the original black sword before it turn into that?" Kirito said
"That's correct. I guess all that glowing was for it to finally transform." Sonic said
"..."
"You seem spaced out today. Something up?"
"Uh, oh, yeah... I had a strange dream if way back when I was just a little kid. I was looking for you and Alice." Eugeo said
"Hm? I was there too?" Kirito said
"Yeah, you were. But you..."
"Was I there in your dream?" Sonic said
"No... I didn't see you anywhere." Eugeo said
"What?"
"Nothing. It was... It was just a dream."
"I have a weird feeling that I was with them as a kid, too. And EUgeo once said he went exploriong with Alice and an unknown third person. Does he have these same strange, out-of-place memories as me?"
"You're probably just tired. We've been through a lot, after all." Eugeo said
"Yeah... that's gotta be it. Okay, so. Just to confirm with you one last time. Are you all in on this, Eugeo? Escaping here and investigating Alice means opposing the entire Axiom Church. Once we get started, there won't be time for waffling and moral dilemmas. If you're not entirely ready for that, you should stay here and only Sonic and I should go." Kirito said
"Yeah, I understand what it means... And I've made up my mind. I will defy the Axiom Church and take up my sword to bring Alice back to Rulid. If that was Alice, I'll figure out why she doesn't remember and fix her. That's the most important thing to me right now. Sometimes, the law and the right thing aren't the same. I understand that now." Eugeo said
"That's what I like to hear from you," Sonic said
"I'm proud of you. You've got real courage. Now, we'll avoid combat as much as possible when we're out. I doubt we stand much of a chance against any Integrity Knight Alice included. However for Sonic, with his new form, armor, and sword. He looks like he can take care of the Integrity Knights and give them a pretty good fight." Kirito said
"If we do get in combat, I'll try to finish it as fast as I can." Sonic said
"Got it!"
"Awesome! Let's get going."
The three-headed out of to escape the prison. As they were getting closer to the exit, it was blocked by metal bars
"Metal bars, we meet again. Meet my chains-"
Kirito attempts to hit the bars with the chains but didn't have any effect on the metal bars.
"I knew this wouldn't work."
"We'll have to look for some other way. Probably can't break the lock either...
Sonic quickly slashes and destroys the metal chains in one sword swing. He looks back at Kirito and Eugeo.
"Enough playing, we have to get going," Sonic said
"I thought I'll be cool doing it, I also wanted to try out the new whip technique I learned from Liena." Kirito said
"It's alright, Kirito," Eugeo said
The three continue running but notice that the stairway up to the was also barricaded.
"Alright, Sonic, do your job." Kirito said
"You know me to well."
Sonic takes a step back and slashes the chain fence, destroying it easily as the fence well in front of them everywhere.
"To easy." Sonic said
"What's your sword even made out of?" Kirito said
"THat is to remain in secret." Sonic said
"Nice going, Sonic." Eugeo said
"Anyway, Let's go." Kirito said
*Rose Gardens*
"So now what? We're outside but where do we go?" Sonic said
"Hold up. Do you see someone?" Kirito said
"A- An Integrity Knight!" Eugeo said
"No need to stand outside. Please show yourselves in, prisoners. My mentor, Lady Alice, is keen as ever. I see. She predicted your unlikely escape."
"Y-Your mentor... Alice?"
"You will, of course, find yourselves back in the dungeon momentarily, but not without a bit rough discipline. Though you knew that coming here."
"And you know we're not just gonna take it without a fight, yeah?"
"Hahaha! Quite the bark for a little pup who didn't even graduate from the academy. As a show of respect for your ferocity. I will give you my name before crushing you."
"Where have I heard that before?" Sonic said
"I am Integrity Knight Eldrie Synthesis Thrity-One, still young and inexperienced. summoned from the heavens but a month ago, and not yet assigned a domain." Eldrie introducing himself
"I'll take him first. Wait for my signal, Eugeo." Kirito said
"Sure... But..."
"Maybe you two should hold back for this only." Sonic said
"It's alright, Sonic. We got this." Kirito said
"Sonic, that's an Integrity Knight. Who knows what attacks he can land on you. And also, I've heard rghar name... Nah, I'll tell you after. Don't push yourself too hard, Sonic." Eugeo said
Eugeo and Kirito stand side to side of Sonic, who was in front of them ready to fight.
"I see. I see. So those chains are how you intend to fight. Chains and a sword. This might be a more worthwhile battle than I first thought. In that case, I will use this instead of my blade. In deference of your violation of the Taboo Index and breaking out your cell, From the beginning. I will not be holding anything back." Eldrie summoning a whip\
"You think that whip is gonna take me don? Heh, I'll love to see you try." Sonic said
Eldrie charges at Sonic and performs whip attacks while Sonic dodges the attacks. Kirito uses his chains to attack Eldrie but Eldrie blocks the chains with no problem. Eugeo also attacks Eldrie with his chains but were also block pretty easily. Sonic runs towards Eldrie and performs heavy sword slashes at Eldrie. Eldrie attempts to block the sword attacks with his whip but SOnic was faster and slashes Eldrie over and over. Eugeo and Kirito took the opportunity and attack him with their chains. The three all attack Eldrie at the same time and him taking tons of damage. Eldrie jumps away from them as he charges his whips and performs a powerful whip attack at the three. The attack hits Eugeo and Kirito multiple times, sending them back from him. Sonic runs towards Eldrie and runs super fast around Eldrie, causing a powerful yellow tornado and disrupting his attack. Eldrie covers his eyes as performs whip attacks around him to try to hit Sonic. But Sonic being Sonic, was faster and doesn't get hit once. Moments later, the tornado disappears as Sonic was nowhere to be found. Eldrie looks around but no sign of Sonic, only Kirito and Eugeo standing still. Seconds later, Sonic appears right in front of Eldrie, charges his sword, and unleashes a fast 100-hit combo on him. His skill causes Eldrie's HP to drain fast and his armor to begin breaking. Soon after, Sonic performs a roundhouse kick at Eldrie, sending him back from him. Eldrie inspects his armor to see the cracks and scratch marks around him.
"That armor, sword, I never seen anything like this before. Who are you? What's your name, where did you come? I'm likely sure you came from the Drak Terrotory trying to take down her, correct?" Eldrie said
"Frist of all, I'm not associated with something like the Dark Territory. Second, all you need to know is that I'm here to take you down and the rest." Sonic said
"I appreciate now why Lady Alice was so wary of you. You have no form or style. But that unpredictably is what forced me to use my Memory Release." Eldrie said
"Your... what?"
"Your reputation precedes you, Integrity Knight." Eugeo said
"H-Huh? What do you mean by that?"
"I thought I'd heard his name somewhere before, and I just realized where. He's the top representative swordsman of the Norlangarth Empire... and the winner of the Four-Empire Unification Tounrmanet, Eldrie Woolsburg!"
"I'm... Eldrie Woolsburg? Representative swordsman... of the Norlangarth Empire?"
"Yes, yes you are. I as your name on the bulletin board at the academy. A pretty, mauve-haired man with swordcraft like a dance, unchallenged every match." Eugeo said
"Unchallenged? Then how come he couldn't hit me once during our battle?" Sonic said
"No, I am... I am the Integrity Knight Eldrie Synthesis Thitry-One! The name Woolsburg... means nothing to me!" Eldrie said
"Doesn't every name suppose to have a meaning? Your being mind-controlled man, sort of. My guess." Sonic said
"But..."
"You do realize yu weren't born an Integrity Knight, right? Couldn't that have been our name from before you joined their ranks?" Kirito said
"Enough! I acknowledge no such name! I... I was summoned from the Heavens... received by the Pontifex, Administrator... Ngh... rrgh..."
"Do you know anything else about him? Something to awaken more of his memories?" Kirito said
"Come on, there's got to be several things." Sonic said
"W-Well, um... Eldrie! You are the son of General Eschdor Woolsburg of the Imperial Knights! Your mother's name is... um... Almera! Right, Almera!"
"Al...me...ra... Mot...her..."
"Dig into your memories! Remember who you are!" Kirito said
"You can do it!" SOnic said
Seconds later, arrows hit the ground right in front of the three.
"Now what?" Sonic said
"Step away from Thirty-One, sinners! How dare you tempt a Knight of Light? For your crime, I shall piecer your limbs and hang you in your cell!"
Sonic quickly sheaths his sword back into its scabbed as he grabs Kirito and Eugeo's hands and starts running super fast. The Integrity Knight fires arrows at Sonic but Sonic outruns the arrows as they hit the ground behind him.
"This way!" A voice called out
"Who's here?" Sonic said
"A door!" Eugeo shouted
"Don't question it, let's go!" Sonic shouted
Soon, the three jump inside the door that was in front of them.
*Great Libary*
"Okay, we manage to escape. But... where are we?" Sonic looking around
"A-Are we still inside Central Cathedral?" Kirito asks
"In a sense, yes, and in a sense, no. While it does exist within it, I have erased the doors of this library, so none may enter this space without my invitation."
"Well, I guess we are the few lucky ones to be invited here." Sonic said
"L-Libary?"
"Verily. These walls store the complete records of this world's history, the formulas governing its functions, and the System Commands you call Sacred Arts."
"Well, it sure is a lot for a world like this." Sonic said
"Wh-What on earth ARE you?"
"My name is Cardinal, former regulator of the world and owner of this Great Libary." Cardinal introducing herself
"You mean... everything from the founding of the Four Empires on is recorded here?" Eugeo said
"Presumably so. You are free to read any book you please and find out yourself." Cardinal said
"This place seems safe, so wh don't we rest up and rework our plan of attack?" Kirito said
"A wise decision. But first, hold out your right hands for me."
"Yeah..."
"Wow..."
"Thank you."
"Yes... Past that staircase, you will find the history section."
"Thank you very much! Now, if you'll excuse me..."
"Gensis is, however, not history, but the creation of the Axiom Church's Pontifex." Cardinal said
"Soo there aren't actually any gods in this world? Stacia, Solus, Terraria, Vecta..." Kirito said
"All fabrications. The Underworld's gods were created by the Church to give them power over the people. The gods' names were taken from four existing emergency-use root accounts, however, no one from the outer world has ever once logged into them." Cardinal said
"How do you know all that?" Sonic said
"You're not a resident of the Underworld, are you? You seem more like... a sysadmin." Kirito said
"Indeed. And likewise to you, Kirito the unregistered and Sonic the unregistered." Cardinal said
"Yep, that's right."
"That's correct." Sonic said
"So, the Underworld was created by a company called Rath, correct?"
"Verily.
"And you are the Cardinal System, an autonomous virtual world control system." Kirito said
"Oho. I take it you have encountered a program of similar origin to mind, then?" Cardinal said
"Yeah... we had. But the Cardinal System we knew didn't have a personification interface like you. What in the world are you? And what are you doing here?" Kirito said
"Care to explain that to us?" Sonic said
"Now then, I would speak to you two about this world-long-winded as it may become. The Underworld is a sandbox created for a specific purpose... an artificial world. When I was not yet conscious, for from the real-world came... They raised fluctlight "children," and taught them the basics of this Taboo Index."
"The Four Progeniotd must have been the Rath staff who built the world, right?" Kirito said
"Precisely. However, one among them, though highly intelligent, was unethical. That person's children inherited traits like the desire to possess and rule. They became the ancestors of the nobles and high ministers of the Axiom Church. This world is ruled by the Administrator, who uses the Taboo Index she created. It is safe to say she has complete control over this world as it is now. Furthermore, she is the only one with a means to contact the outside world. I'll tell you in order... The Axiom Church was created roughly 350 years ago. A few decades after the Four Progeniotrs logged out, several lords already ruled. The first arranged political marriage of rival families resulted in a baby girl. She possessed unprecedented beauty and egoism. Her name... was Quinella. Quinella was given the Calling "Sacred Arts researcher." Sacred Arts... so she basically started the analysis of System Commands. At age 11, Qunmella discovered she could increase her Authority by attacking foxes. Before long, she began sneaking out at night to continue her slaughter in secret. Her Auhtority level rose infinietky. While her analysis of commands progressed... Her Sacred Arts were seemingly miracles like Life recovery and weather prediction. Soon, the citizens of Centoria thought she was sent by the gods, and revered her... She claimed a place to worship the gods was needed, so a marble tower was built. The Central Cathedral's prototype, and the starts of the Church's 350-year reign. And with it, she penned a set of rules by which the world would be governed. Regardless, morality was not the reason that woman create the Taboo Index. Quinella's rule became more absolute, and a population grew, occupied land did too. But she also became wary of the area she could not keep her eye on. What if someone else discovered the secret behind Sacred Arts usage? To ensure her irrefutable dominance, she decided to create written laws. Loyalty to the Axiom Church as the first, and prohibition of murder as the second, why? Naturally, because one's Authprtiy would increase upon killing another human. Disturbing the Taboo Inde ensured the Axiom Church's rule was absolute. She sought moe power, more sacraments... enough to transcend her limit... her life. And finally, she found it. A summary of every System Command in existence... With the complete command list, Quinella set her Authority to the highest level. All of the same authorities as the Cardinal System were at her fingertips... Terrain and structure manipulation, item generation... even Life manipulation..."
"Life... manipulation? Do you mean her lifespan?"
"She fully restored her LIfe, halted its natural decline, and restored her looks."
"Then why did the Administrator create the Axiom Church to rule the human realm?"
"Originally, she was driven by selfishness and desire for absolute control. DUe to that desire, she could not tolerate one who had Authority equal to hers."
"You mean... the Cardinal System itself?"
"Yes. Quinella was but a denizine of the Underworld, with no link to the creators. Quinella attempted to absorb the entire Cardinal System, and as a result... She burned the primary instruction of the Cardinal System into her own fluctlight. Instead of stealing its Authority level, she fused it with her own soul." Cardinal said
"What exactly... was the Cardinal System's primary directive anyway?"
"To maintain order. Writing that command onto her soul, she lost consciousness. By the time she awoke, she was, by all intents and purposes, no longer human. She would not agew, nor require food and drink, preserving her eternal domination. Seventy years after Quniella's ascension, she noticed an anomaly in herself. She began losing consciousness outside of sleep and failed to recall new memories. Above all, she was unable to recall System Commands she had memorized perfectly. Using the Systems Coammns, she examined her own fluctlight... and was shocked. Somehow, the capacity of the sector for preserving memories had reached its limit. Back then... that is, two hundred years ago... There was a girl, only ten tears of, studying Sacred Arts at Central Cathedral. The Administrator had that girl brought to the living room of the top floor... and welcomed her with a kind smile befitting a holy mother. She said... "You will be my child now. A child of god that will guide the world." The Administrator planned to take her fluctlight's key memories, and overwrite the girl's with them. However... she failed."
"She failed?"
"Are you being serious?" Sonic said
"Unterly. Because for an instant, after she rewrote the girl and disposed of her old soul, she and the girl had become two gods wielding equal Authority."
"Tell me, Cardinal, who exactly are you?"
"Tell us." Sonic holding the grip of his sword
"Do you still not understand? The principles of behavior Quienllea carved into her own soul was not merely one. The main process is supposed to "maintain control," while the subprocess. is responsible for correcting the errors of the main process."
"The subprocess... corrects errors... In short, Quinella wrote ger persona over the girl's fluctlight to copy her soul. And when that girl's soul was erased, you took her body, creating a second Quinella. The subprocess that existed since Quinella took in the cardinal Program... is you."
"Aye. I am the subprocess that received a new body through her Synthesis Ritual. We stared at each other and immediately sensed overwhelming hostility. It was the sense that neither of us could allow the being in front of us to exist. That moment marked the beginning of my long battle with the Administrator. Our first battle was a mostly equal deathmatch using high-level Sacred Arts. However, in a last-ditch effort, she made an area to restrict System Commands. And, as a result, I was defeated. I escaped into the Great Libary and separated it from the Central Cathedral."
"Man, just hearing you say that makes me want to defeat whoever this Administartor person is." Sonic said
"So you were defeated and escaped to this Greta Libary, and you've been here since?"
"Correct. I have also been waiting for 200 years for collaborators such as yourselves. She is wary of surprise attacks and has taken measures against them. She delegated most of her duties, while also gathering powerful and loyal escorts. The Integrity Knights made all manner of surprise attacks impossible. Furthermore, I am alone, while she is at the top of a massive organization."
"That's why you need a partner?"
"Aye. But this ally needs to be skilled in combat and free of the Taboo Index. In order to find such a person, I sent bird and insect familiars into the world. From them, I learned the Administrator's indestructible object was destroyed. I decided to find the ones responsible, and one familiar monitor them. Her name is Charlotte, and she has been observing you two since you left Rulid."
"Oh, so that's why I always felt a preacnce on me every day." Sonic said
"That explains the weird feeling of being watched..."
"First, I searched for the reason the destructible object, the Gigas Cedar. had been destroyed and found you three. Then, I learned the three of you stopped a scouting party from the Dark Territory. And though Charlotte's eyes, I realized you two were not bound by the Taboo Index. That's when I knew you two were from outside, as my greatest hope."
"Is... that so? Then that wasn't just a result of our own inspiration or intuition. Wait, was it you who comforted us when I found my Zephilia flowers cut down? Thank you, Charlotte. What exactly;y ar the Integrity Knights, other than guardians of the Axiom Church?"
"The truth is far more cruel. They are merely her pawns, used to keep people in fear of breaking the Taboo Index. The Administrator uses the Synthesis Ritual to rob them of their old memories. She then implants a strong sense of integrity Knights."
"But... what exactly IS this "Synthesis Ritual"?"
"She created the process by experimenting upon countless potential rebels. It removes memories, replacing them with a "Piety Module" to promote loyalty. I chose you two to defeat the Administrator not merely to regain my lost Authority but to set this world's people free, from the chains of the Taboo Index." Cardinal said
"Wait what?" Sonic said
"What do you mean?"
"Someday, the humans outside will subject this world to the Final Stress Test. Before that happens, I wish to put all souls painlessly to sleep."
"What is The Final Stress test?
"Sounds like something my buddy will create." Sonic said
"Rath has never cared about the happiness of his artificial fluctlights. Quite the contrary, in fact... He's slowly squeezing them in a vise... This world exists only to be observed, to see how it reacts to stress."
"So... what DO you expect?"
"The vise that holds this human realm will finally crush it between its claws. The denizens of the Dark Territory have fluctlighs, but also lust for blood. Their strict strength-based hierarchy makes for a primitive but powerful army. That army will invade lum, their word for the human realm, and wreak havoc. This horrific day is not so far in the future. It could come any time. And there you have it: the history of the Underworld and the trials that await."
"Such a history for this world." Sonic said
"I think I get... So you're saying even if we defeat the Administrator and restore control to you, we still can't stop the Final Stress Test and the invasion from the Dark Territory?" Kirito said
"Indeed. And even were I to regain full access to my control systems, I would not use them to combat the forces of darkness. For they were given no more choice in their fates than you two or I."
"Because the residents of the Drak Terripoty also have artificial fluctlights?"
"Yes. Agonize for a century and you may still not devise a satisfactory solution."
"They have souls too, so you can't just wave your hand and brand them all evil... Wh-What about the human realm and the Dark Terrtotyu forming a peace treaty?"
"Work for half a millennium and you may still not reach an agreement. Furthermore, Rath maintains their grip on this world. Peace would momentary. As such, before the time of the Final Stress Test, I intend to eradicate the Administrator and regain access to all my systems. Then I can return the Underworld, human realm, and Dark Territory alike, to null."
"In short, because death is inevitable, you plan to kill everyone humanely?" Kirito said
"Their souls will be deleted in an instant before they are aware of their demise. Nonetheless, it is still an act of genocide, yes. This world is dependent on Rath'sresources, so it can't take exist without them. However, to Rath. we are naught but an experiment. They will not stop the test." Cardinal said
"Yeah, I can't see any reason to believe they would."
"You understand now that I am not asking you two to simply save everyone, yes?"
"We do. And that you spent 2000 years fighting to reach that answer."
"Alright, then."
"If you two agree to cooperate and we are able to restore my control of the system, I will grant your wishes, albeit on a temporary basis. Give me a list of names, and I will freeze their fluctlight data without deleting it. Then, when you two return to the outer world, you can retrieve their lightcubes. A maximum of ten or so should be feasible. I realize this is not the ideal solution for you two either, but it's the best we have." Cardinal making a deal
"That's clearly a different way to say favoritism. And I don't like picking favorites." Sonic said
"I can't pick ten names of people I want to survive. It's not that easy."
"Having observed you two for two and a half years, I cannot say that surprises me."
"What right do we even have to decide who gets to live and die? That said, what else is there? We can't be sure contacting the outside will work."
"Okay. We understand your position." Kirito said
"We're fully filled up with information." Sonic said
"I will not force you two to do anything. Should you decide you cannot aid me, I shall still gladly open a backdoor for you two, and Eugeo anywhere you, please. Though you should you choose his thorny path and successfully defeat the Administrator, fate may decide to place us across from one another on the battlefield next."
"Cardinal, you said your soul was copied from Quinella's, yeah?"
"Verily."
"Which means you're also a pure-blooded, selfish noble down to your DNA. So why did you stay for two hundred years instead of running off?"
"You are an even greater fool than you look, Kirito. The function of the Cardinal System's Subprocess has been branded on my soul. Thus, the only thing I truly, selfishly desire is the death of the Administrator. My processes have determined that the only way to right this wrong is to end it all. As such, I... I... Wait, no. There is... one other thing I have sought these past two centuries. Stand you two."
"Wha..."
"What are you doing..."
Kirito and Sonic both stand up from their chairs and stand in front of Cardinal. Cardinal walks close to them as she extends her arms and folds around both Kirito and Sonic, hugging them.
"Ahh... so this... This is what it feels like to be human." Cardinal said
Moments later, the two hug Cardinal as well.
"What captivating warmth... Thank you... My 200 years did not go to waste... Feeling this warmth has made all that time worth it..."
After several seconds have passed. Cardinal lets go of Kirito and Sonic as she walks back, grab's her cap, and sits back down.
"Now, do you plan to stan there forever?"
"Oh, come on."
"Have you made up your minds? Will you assist in my plan to go your own ways?"
"Alright, sure. I'm on board. But just so you know, we won't stop searching for another solution, even as our battle with the Integrity Knights and the Administrator rages on. There has to be s0em way to avoid tragedy and bring peace to the world." Kirito said
"Heaves. Your boundless idealism never ceases to amaze me." Cardinal said
"I mean, we don't want you to die either. If I have to pick ten, you'll be on the list."
"Idealistic AND tragically lacking a brain. Who will erase the world if I am gone?" Cardinal said
"I mean... I know someone who will love to do something like that and help you while you're gone." Sonic said
"The point is, I understand the situation, but I'm not giving in just yet."
"Before long, you will know the bitter taste of surrender. You will accept your helplessness without so much a chance to fight back. I imagine your friend has finished his reading, so let us invite him back. To further our plans, we will need to get him up to speed as well."
"Once Eugeo returned, I gave him the short version of everything Cardinal told Sonic and I: That the Synthesis Ritual forces Integrity Knights to be Loyal by removing memories. That Cardinal was another Pontifex, and she had agreed to work with us. And that her goal was to defeat the Administrator and take back her position. I left out the parts about the outside world and The Final Stress Test, though. I knew I would have to tell him someday... but it didn't seem like the right time."
"So Integrity Knighjst all have their memories removed before joining? Does that mean the knight Alice is actually Alice Zuberg, Cardinal?" Eugeo said
"Apologies, but my access to outsider data from within the library is very limited. I have no means of discovering this Integrity Knight Alice's origins." Cardinal response
"Oh... Damn..."
"I can, however, tell you how to reverse the Synthesis Ritual performed on her."
"Really?!"
"But just like what happen, it won't be that easy to remove the Sysnthesis Ritual." Sonic said
"Nice job, King Author. You actually do have a brain of intelligence." Cardinal said
"K-King Author? I'm Sonic. I thought you know a lot of things and my actual name." Sonic said
"I do, and I know your also call King Author."
"H-How do you know?"
"I heard many stories from you. Your a great fighter and leader who would risk his life for the protection of the innocent and always come out victorious. Even during our darkest days, you never gave up and continue to smile and save the ones you love. Your one of the keys to take down the Administrator." Cardinal said
"Wait, how am I one of the keys to take down Administrator?" Sonic said
"Look at yourself. The golden armor your wearing, and that sword your holding. These are legendary equipment that the Underworld doesn't offer. However, You can consider your sword as one of the most powerful swords in existence. It's so powerful, not even the Administrator can't hold it, steal its power, or destroy it. It's not registered to be used by anyone else but its main user. Hence, you Sonic. Even Kirito, Eugeo, nor I can't hold the sword." Cardinal said
"..."
"They fear you, Sonic. Once you challenge the Integrity Knights and Administrator and defeat them. They will see what a true knight really means and what they fight for. For freedom." Cardinal said
Sonic look's at his sword as he could see himself in the reflection of the blade.
"We shall do everything to take down Administartor, no matter what happens." Sonic said
"As I saying before going off to something different. You need to simply remove the Piety Module installed in her."
"But, just like
"The pie... what?"
"That triangular crystal that came out of Eldire's forehand."
"Oh, that's what it's called?"
"We have to provoke an inconsistency in her current memory to release the module?" Kirito said
"Removing the module is only part of the reversal process."
"Wh-What else do we need to do?"
"You need to replace it with the memories that were removed to insert the module. Generally, these are memories of a loved one, memories they consider very precious." Cardinal said
"Oh yeah, Eldrie's module almost came out when I mentioned his mother's name." Eugeo said
"Then he like had his memories of her removed to make room for the Piety Module. The Administrator removes the most beloved memories from all her Integrity Knights. And without recovering fragments, you cannot fully revert the ritual."
"What if... the Administrator, destroys the memory fragments after she removes them?"
"Unlikely. She would never dispose of something that we use for her later. I have little doubt she stores them in her chambers on Central Ctaheral's highest floor."
"So to reverse the ritual, we need to make it to the very top of the Cathedral, and to do that we need to make it past all the Integrity Knights she has posted."
"Do not be so naive as to think you can defeat her knights without shedding blood. The most I can do for you is provide you two equipment to battle them on equal footing."
"Wait, you're not coming with us?"
"The moment I set foot outside this Great Libary, the Administrator will know, and she will personally come after me with the full strength of her forces. However, if only the three of you go, she will send smaller forces to capture you, as she presently intends to turn you and Eugeo into Integrity Knights. That is your only chance of success. You would be crushed by her full forces." Cardinal said
"That doesn't matter, bring her helpers to me. I'll love for some practice before the main event." Sonic said
"mnh..."
"Should you cross paths with the Integrity Knight Alice, use this."
"A dagger? What, is it like some secret high-tech one-hit knockout weapon?"
"These three daggers were created from strands of my hair. Do to let that fool you, though. They are essentially harmless, However, anyone pierced by the blade will form an unbreakable link with me, meaning I can use my Sacred arts on them unhindred, even from within the library. If you encounter the Integrity Knight Alice, piece her somewhere on her body. I will cast a spell to put her into a deep sleep until you retrieve her memories. I created these for you to use during your battle with the Administrator, the second intended as a backup, but you need only to piece her with the one. The third is the same one as the second one."
"Uh... are you sure about this?"
"Use them as you please."
"So, um. What's your plan for letting us fight on equal footing with the knights?"
"Why, retriever your swords, of course."
"What?! Yu can get my Blue Rose Sword and Kirito's, uh, Black one back?!"
"Your weapons should be stored in Central Cathedral's armory. I will open a backdoor nearby so you can retrieve them and anything else you need."
"Alright, Well, now we have a plan of attack worked out." Kirito said
"Not quite yet. There is one last task you will need to complete first." Cardinal said
"Huh? What's that?"
"Your swords are powerful, yes, but that alone is insufficient to defeat a knight. This doesn't involve Sonic but you Kirito and Eugeo. For they possess the ability to multiply the strength of their blades many times."
"Oh, are you talking about Perfect Weapon Control Art?"
"Indeed. Divine-Object-class weapons take on the properties of their base objects. Perfect Weapon Control is, simply put, an art that unleashes a weapon's memories, releasing incredible power far beyond the weapon's capabilities."
"So... they can surpass Excailburs strength?" Sonic said
"As I said before, I have no data on the sword nor it's powers. But I will guest that they won't surpass it and something lays deeper behind your sword's power." Cardinal said
"Deeper?" Sonic whispers
"Come with me. You will take a short rest and begin the ritual." Cardinal said
"Is... is it really possible to envision our swords unleashed without the swords?" Eugeo said
"Aye. Having the blade before you would only inhibit your imagination, in fact. You need neither eyes nor hands to reach inside and find, know, and release. No, you need only your mind's eye." Cardinal said
"My mind's eye..."
"Now, begin by envisioning your beloved blades resting upon those table."
"Okay."
"I'll give it my best shot."
"
"The Black One Now that I think about it, that's a pretty rude name I've been using, huh? While we've only known each other for a little under three months, but when I use a skill, I feel this intense sense of unity."
"Deeper. Dive even deeper. All the way down to the blade's core."
"The sword's memories... The Gigas Cedar's memories... envision them as my own... I'm surrounded by dense woods, but they all keep their distance from me. I'm alone. The solitude unrelenting I reach out to touch the other trees. I stretch. Drawing energy from Terraria Absorbing the light of Solus. But alas. The three within my reach languish. Wither away. The energy I draw around me. Strives them. Again and again. Until I am countless times larger than any other tree. The vacant space at my base is now wider than ever. I am alone."
"That is enough. I have received the memories drawn out from each of your swords. We will begin with you, Kirito."
"So is this the incarnation to use a Perfect Weapon Comtrol... Wait. The incantation ends with "Enhance Armament."
"Yes. Is it not your liking?"
"N-No, nothing like that. Just, when we fought Eldrie, his was different... Oh, what was it... release something or another..."
"Release Recollection," I believe, and then his whip turned into a serpent," Eugeo said
"Do we not need that part for our perfect Weapon Control Arts?"
"There are two stages to the Perfect Weapon Control Art: Enhance and Release. Enhance awakens portions of the weapon's memory, multiplying its strength. Release awakens the entirely of its memory, unleahsing a torrential power." Cardinals said
"So with Eldire's Frostsale Whip, Enhance increases its range and number of heads, while Release transforms it into a serpent that attacks its own."
"Aye. The two of you are not yet ready to use the Release art, however. Only Sonic is ready to use the art." Cardinal said
"Wh-Why not?" Eugeo said
"Does that mean there's something waiting to be unleashed from Excalibur?" Sonic said
"That's on you to figure out. I can't answer what it is, but whatever is hiding in your sword. It most certainly will be a powerful one. And for Eugeo, the power it unleashes is far too great to control for one who just learned the art. An especially powerful Divine Object could kill both you and your enemy." Cardinal said
"Th-That's good to know." Eugeo said
"Now, time is short. I shall open a door to the armor on the third floor. Will it be bathed in hellfire? Sink into the void? Or will you find a tired path? I have passed on you eveyrthiu in my power. What you do with it is up to you."
"Thank you for everything Cardinal. I swear we will reach the Cathedral's apex, and restore Alice to her original self."
"Good. Now off you go!"
*Cathedral*
"Well, that was easy." Sonic said
"There's no one around..."
"I expected at least one guard, but I guess no one ever breaks in."
"They have to know we're inside by now, right? But they're not doing anything." Eugeo said
"As far as they're concerned, we're not a threat worth proactivity chasing. But when we do turn into another Intgeriy Knight, be prepared for a lot of them, or someone insanely strong. let's make good use of this time to ourselves." Kirito said
"It's kill or be killed. Well, not going that far... Um... you know what I mean." Sonic said
"System Call: Generate Lumious Element."
The armory room begins to glow as the room was filled with armor, shields, and swords.
"Daaamn..."
"Now this is what I call overprepared," Sonic said
"I guess I shouldn't be surprised the Axom Church is so well-armed," Eugeo said
"If Sortileina saw this, she would pass out on the spot," Kirito said
"Do they plan to establish an army? The Integrity Knights are powerful enough..."
"Hmm... maybe it's to fight the forces of darkness? Wait, no. She's not making an army. She's preventing anyone else from making one. The Administrator gathers al;l the Divine Object-class gear in the world here, hoarding it is no else can accumulate anty real military power." Kirito said
"Huh? Why would she do that? No one would are stand up to the Atom Church, even with all these weapons.
"It means the Pontifex herself lacks faith in the Church's authority."
A couple of Minutes Later...
"Aha. Found you."
"..."
"What, are you going to stare at it forever? C'mon, put it on your waist and let's go."
"A-Alright..."
"Oh, this is where they keep their armor. With this much, there has to be something that fits us. Want to look for some?"
"Nah. We've never worn armor before, so how about we just stick to what we know?" Kirito said
"Well, I already am wearing armor that fits me and this world does not have any clothing that fits my size anyway. So I'm practically naked but I dealt with that my whole life." Sonic said
"Even when's it cold o rianig outside, you don't wear anyhting?" Kirito said
"Yep."
"Oh... well... Our clothes are falling apart after the fight with Eldrie, so let's grab new one." Kirito said
"Yeah, if we don't replace these, we'll just be wearing tattered rags." Eugeo said
"Alright. Let's change and get going."
A Few Minutes Later...
"You two actually look cooler in those clothes," Sonic said
"These clothes probably have enough history to stop an Integrity Knight's attack," Kirito said
"I don't know what you're expecting from a bunch of clothes, Kirito. Anyway, I think that's all we need from here."
"Yeah, let's go."
*Central Cathedral*
"Our journey begins now." Sonic said
"We got out swords back and got new clothes. Let's get a move on." Eugeo said
"Good point. I'll check over it, then we can head up for the top floor." Kirito said
To Be Continue...