Preface:
As promised here is chapter 5. I don't have a lot to say, so, enjoy :)
All the rights and privileges of Sword Art Online belong to Reki Kawahara.
Chapter 5
Wednesday Nov 9th, 2022
"Ah!" Keita yelled with fear swinging his spear like a baseball bat. "Get off me!" This had the unfortunate effect of hitting Ducker, interrupting his sword skill.
"Watch it!" Ducker growled, upset about losing health.
"Keita!" Sasamaru cried as the boar crashed into Keita, dropping his health into the yellow.
"Can't the four of you deal with one pig," Tetsuo complained while dealing with a second one. Letting out a cry Tetsuo brought his mace down with the starting 'Hammerfall' technique, killing the first boar.
"Not all of us have a shield to absorb the charges, Tetsuo." Keita snapped back, embarrassed at being knocked down and hindering his teammates. Forget about looking like a leader, Keita wasn't even competent.
Sasamaru, having finally landed a 'Thrusting Strike', slaying the second boar, let out a sigh. "Well, it's going better than yesterday, right guys?
"That is true," Ducker agreed with a smile, good mood returning. "We haven't had to run away with three of us in red!"
"Indeed," Keita agreed attempting to gather everyone's attention to look like a leader. "We will finish those quests today and hit level 2!"
"Aye, aye!" The rest responded, their tone edging the line between sincere and mocking.
Forced to accept the response, Keita plowed on, "Let's find ourselves more boars to hunt." Looking around the plains, they were packed with players late to get a start on clearing the game. Most of the ones out here now were only here due to the release of the guidebook. Having knowledge of what you were getting into was an asset in staying alive.
"Looks like we're stuck to these two spawns," Tetsuo commented.
"Yupp," Ducker agreed plopping to the ground. "Gives us five minutes of waiting or so."
Sighing, melancholically, the others took up various tasks to distract themselves during the wait. Looking out at the surroundings, Keita was distracted by a beeping noise. Upon opening his menu, Keita was greeted by a notification, one new message. "Sachi," Keita gasped alerting the others.
"Are you hallucinating, dude?" Sasamaru asked.
"No," Gulping, Keita continued, "She sent me a message."
"What!?"
"But she's not in the game!"
"Oh, we should have checked the monument, huh?"
Tetsuo, unsurprisingly, was the only one who made a logical comment upon hearing the information. "I'm heading back into town to talk to her. You guys stay here."
"No way," Tetsuo argued. "We all want to see her, and anyways, we can come back tonight when there is more space on the plains to finish the quest."
"Fine," Keita snapped. "Come on." Almost jogging, Keita set a fast pace as he led the boys back to the Town of Beginnings. Entering the gates, a form dislodged itself from the shadows of the trees. Hesitating, the boys stopped, waiting to see what was approaching them.
"Hey guys," Walking into the light of the street, Sachi greeted the group with a smile.
"Sachi!"
"It really is you!"
"Wow!"
"A little bittersweet, but I am glad the whole club is here." Tetsuo told her with a smile.
"Yeah! With the whole club here, we'll be unbeatable." Ducker added on, enthusiastically nodding. "Though with Naruto here, things would have been even easier."
"Actually, he is," Sachi told them, giving them the second shock of the day. "He went to find Mozuri from school."
"Who?" Sasamaru asked for the clueless boys.
"Nobunaga-kun," Sachi clarified. "He's in Kaz's class, the kendo team, the baseball team, his best friend. You guys don't know him?"
"Uh, not really, no." Keita told Sachi truthfully.
"How close would you say they are?" Ducker asked intently, worried that a rival was moving in on Naruto.
"Ugh," Sachi sighed. "So, how have you guys been handling…" Cutting off, Sachi opened her menu, looking at something only she could see. "Speaking of Naruto. He's hoping we can all come and meet him and his friends."
"Friends plural?" Tetsuo asked confused. "Is there someone else besides him and Mozuri?"
"Ah, apparently." Sachi answered. "We haven't been together all that long." Sachi said quickly, hoping to avoid further questions. "Let's just go."
As Sachi took off to some unknown destination, the boys were forced to follow. "That seemed a bit odd, no?" Sasamaru whispered to Keita.
"She's hiding something." Keita agreed, keeping his eyes on Sachi's back.
After twisting through the wide streets for a couple minutes, Sachi entered a seemingly indistinguishable pub. Spying Naruto at the back of the pub, Sachi gave him an enchanting smile before skipping over to his table.
"Hey there," Naruto said warmly, happy to see her again.
"Hi," smiling, Sachi slid smoothly into the chair next to him, legs touching like it was the most natural thing in the world.
"What!?" Klein let out an outraged scream from where he was sitting. "You already got the info broker. Now this one?" collapsing onto the table Klein let out broken sobs.
As Klein's friends were attempting to soothe him, Sachi's group walked awkwardly over to the table to introduce themselves.
"That gives us thirteen," Arthur commented from where he was sitting with a frown. "Well as long as you don't decide to leave again."
Flinching from the verbal wound, Naruto weakly replied. "Sorry about that. But I swear I'm staying this time."
"The thing that matters is that he's back," Sachi purred, drawing herself closer to Naruto.
"Haha, right…" Naruto agreed. Sweat dripped down his back as hostile glares surrounded him.
"So, you're taking advantage of Sachi, are you Naruto?" Keita asked savagely. "How dare you do this while she is mentally unstable from the extenuating circumstances?"
Groaning, Naruto buried his face in his hands. Not because he was particularly affected by the words. But because he knew what would happen and he had no way to stop it.
"Excuse me?" Sachi's voice as like ice, freezing all nearby conversations. "You think I'm mentally unstable? That he's taking advantage of me?" With each point Sachi thrust her finger at Keita's chest.
"Um, no, well, kind of?" Keita stammered in response. Off-balance at Sachi's assault, poor Keita had picked a fight he had no chance of winning.
As righteous fury entered her eyes, Naruto's gently grabbed her arms and pulled her back. "It's alright Sachi, he's just tired and confused. I'm sure he didn't mean it."
"Yeah," Ducker agreed nodding. "I mean, if I was a girl, I'd be all over you too!"
"Um, thanks?" Naruto responded, attempting to break the awkward silence that had arisen from Ducker acclamation. "Anyways, I wanted to bring everyone together. It seems like the thirteen of us are all trying to free everyone from this game. The first step is to level up. Second, is to get to the frontier and begin mapping the labyrinth. Last, but not least, we participate in the floor boss fight. If there are any questions, ask them now."
"Wow, Sachi just said she was bringing us to meet you and some friends. I don't know if I'm ready to start fighting bosses." Sasamaru argued.
"What are you worried about?" Ducker scoffed. "Naruto will probably solo it anyways."
"Thanks for your faith Ducker," Naruto replied with a faint smile, "but I've been informed the floor bosses are fought with raid groups, or six parties of eight. To answer your question Sasamaru, it seems like you've just come from farming creeps. It's time to ask yourself why you were out fighting. If you were fighting because your friends were, then you probably shouldn't attempt to join the front lines. However, if you were fighting because you were hoping to return home someday… Well then, you need to decide how much you're willing to sacrifice to make that a reality."
In the scared silence that followed, Arthur glared at Naruto before clarifying something. "It seems unlikely that we will get the levels, and more importantly the skills required to join the boss fight on this floor. Most likely, we won't catch up until floor two or three."
"Ah, true," Scratching his head embarrassed, Naruto informed the group of more information. "In the beta test, the first-floor boss was defeated after 5 days. That would be tomorrow, but that won't happen. People have gotten to the town outside the first-floor labyrinth, but the number is limited. The level of the first boss is around six or seven. I think we can expect that at most people will try to grind out level eight or nine before attempting it. That would give us probably another week or two until a full raid can be assembled."
"How do you know so much?" Tetsuo asked wonderingly.
Blushing, Naruto cast a glance at Sachi before answering. "I have a, uh, friend who is at the frontier right now."
"Friend!?" Klein cried. "At least be honest with these good people. You're stealing all the girls and building a harem!" Collapsing, yet again, onto the table, Klein began sobbing once more.
Sachi, walked behind Naruto and began massaging his shoulders. "Naruto is not building a harem. I trust him." The sincere words convinced everyone of the truth. Naruto was only one who got the hidden message that Sachi's harsh massage gave. 'Try to build a harem and I will personally kill you'.
Swallowing back his fear, Naruto smiled at the group and tried not to wince as Sachi's possessive hands dug into his shoulders.
"That went well," Naruto commented, standing awkwardly in the doorway of Sachi's room.
After the tension had died down, the group had drunk until the early hours of the morning socializing. Promising Arthur he would come back to claim his bed, Naruto had left with Sachi to 'escort' her to her room.
"Yes, I think despite the, uh, interesting characters, we can work together." Sachi agreed.
"Oh, yeah, real interesting." Forcing a laugh, Naruto attempted to keep the conversation going. Contrary to his efforts, Sachi just stared at him. As silence took over, Naruto was forced to come up with a way to excuse himself naturally.
Before Naruto could finalize his strategy, Sachi spoke. "Arthur seemed angry at you."
"Uh yeah, he's still a little put out…" Naruto answered, confused.
"If it would be awkward to sleep in a room with him, you could stay here…" Sachi added on, cheeks tinted red.
Blindsided by the turn in direction, Naruto spoke before his mind could catch up. "and sleep on that sofa? I'd rather sleep on the floor." Laughing, Naruto didn't realize the trap he had caught himself in.
"You can share the bed with me." Sachi spoke from right in front of him.
"Wha…?" looking down at her, Naruto gasped. Her upturned face had a healthy blush to it and her eyes, like twin black holes transfixed him. Taking a deep breath, Naruto prevented himself from touching her. "And I mean, we aren't even really dating."
"Naruto…" Whispering his name Sachi stroked his face. Groaning from the contact, spikes of desire ran through his body. "We could always skip to that stage."
"Sachi, please no more. I-I don't want to take advantage of you." Naruto replied, fighting to get the words out.
Eyes tightening into a glare, Sachi replied bitingly. "You aren't listening to Keita, are you? I chose this, what part of that don't you understand."
"I guess then I'm just a coward," Naruto said, averting his eyes. "I'm scared to hurt you anymore than I already have."
"Oh, Naruto," Sachi sighed. Grabbing his face and forcing him to look at her, "You could only hurt me by leaving me." With that statement Sachi pressed her lips against Naruto's.
The feeling of her soft lips and lithe body against him, Naruto's restraint broke. Closing the door with his foot, Naruto pressed himself harder into Sachi.
"N-Naruto," Sachi panted, after breaking apart. Bringing his lips back into contact with the breathless girl, Sachi's eyes shot open in surprise.
"Ugh," With a grunt Naruto's body unnaturally flew into the wall. At the same time, Sachi got a prompt in her vision. 'Unwanted contact detected. Press yes to send assailant to the Black Iron Palace prison to serve out a sentence'.
"Oh, that's unfortunate," Sachi pouted.
"Ugh, that wasn't just unfortunate, that was painful," Naruto whined. "I got shocked. What was that?"
"Umm, well apparently the game detected unwanted contact and is letting me choose whether to send you to jail or not."
"P-please don't," Naruto begged fearfully.
"I won't," Sachi sighed, dismissing the prompt. "But it seems like we can't go any further."
"Ah, yeah," Naruto agreed the shock bringing him to his senses. "I suppose I should just go?"
"We can still share the bed," Sachi insisted. Even if we can't… you know." Turning towards the bed, Sachi got in one side and left the other open. Indecision eating at him, Naruto eventually decided he couldn't walk out on Sachi again. Praying this wasn't a mistake, Naruto slid carefully into the bed, avoiding contact with Sachi. Thankfully, sleep came quickly despite little room to move and the awkward arrangement.
Thursday Nov 10th, 2022
"Ah shit," Naruto groaned as he reached the meeting spot the next morning.
"So, you decided to show up," Arthur growled, eyes flashing with anger.
"L-look dude, it's not what you think. I just got distracted…"
"Distracted!? I stayed up waiting for you, so that we could talk. But did you come back? No, you left. Again!" With all his rage behind it, Arthur poked Naruto in the chest.
"Oh," Naruto lamely replied.
At his friend's guilty expression, Arthur's anger melted away. Groaning exasperatedly, Arthur rubbed his temples to stay calm. "Look, I get why you did it, but it still hurt. And, now that you're back… it feels like you're assuming I'm going to accept you back like nothing happened."
Face falling, Naruto digested Arthur's complaints, Naruto had no immediate reply. "You're right." Naruto finally spoke as Arthur was getting ready to leave. "I did assume you would just accept me back. I was too focused on Sachi. I was so worried about how she would treat me that I looked over your feelings. I'm sorry Arthur."
Blushing, Arthur waved his hands to brush off Naruto's speech. "Ah, I mean I get that you prioritize her and all… but um. You know, I think we've talked about feelings long enough, let's go back to the others."
"Um, sure?" Not happy about how the conversation ended, Naruto had no choice but to follow Arthur back to where the others had gathered.
"So, uh, looks like everyone is here. The objective today is to teach the new guys how to fight."
"Whoa, hold up, we know how to fight," Keita argued.
"Really?" Arthur asked with a smirk, "So what level are you guys?"
"We're still level one," Tetsuo supplied after Keita refused to answer.
"And the rest of us are level three. That means we can help you guys catch up to us fairly quickly."
Despite Arthur's comment being factually incorrect, Naruto kept his silence. He had hit level four in the two days he had spent in Horunka. With his increased level, and new weapon, Naruto was positive he would one-shot not only the boars, but also the wolves. This day would be very boring for him at this pace.
"Naruto? Hello?" Came Arthur's voice, snapping him out of his contemplation.
"Uh, what. I missed the question." Naruto was forced to reply.
Sighing, Arthur repeated himself. "I asked, whether you would be willing to demonstrate fighting for them."
"Oh, I suppose so." Naruto answered halfheartedly.
"Is there a problem?" Arthur snapped, becoming irate at Naruto's lackadaisical attitude towards fighting monsters that could spell death for them.
"Well, uh, I think I'll probably one-shot the boars with a sword skill…" Naruto told him.
"What are you talking about? I need a crit to one-shot, and I'm using a spear."
"Uh, well I upgraded my weapon," Naruto finally admitted, unwilling to talk about how he had gotten a big power boost by leaving them.
"Oh," Arthur replied after a second, catching on to why Naruto didn't want to talk about it. "Well, it shouldn't matter, you can still teach them what to do."
"True," Naruto agreed, thankful that Arthur hadn't pushed the issue. "But if I'm teaching these five, what are you seven going to do?"
Cutting off Arthur, Klein stepped forward and answered instead. "We're heading to Horunka! Get there, accept some quests and warp back here!"
"You shouldn't take that journey lightly. There are some tricky sections along the way." Naruto told them, frightened for their well-being, but Arthur interrupted.
"It's all cool, the bad sections are outlined in the guidebook that Argo released. We can do this." Arthur adamantly told Naruto.
Keeping his doubts to himself, Naruto just nodded. Arthur was skilled, he wouldn't die, not against the enemies on this floor. "Alright then. Let's create our two parties and head out."
"Wow!" Ducker exclaimed as he watched Naruto solo kill a boar without sword skills or taking damage. Eyes wide with excitement, Ducker was practically drooling. On the other side of the spectrum, Keita snorted as Naruto lazily returned his sword to its sheath.
"Show-off," Keita mumbled under his breath. Every second Naruto spent with the group, Keita's leadership was being undermined. Sachi didn't look to Keita when decisions had to be made. Also, with Ducker's hero vision and Tetsuo's level-head, Keita was being looked to less and less. Trying to tell himself that friends don't have leaders didn't help. He was the president of the computer club. He liked being looked up to. He liked making decisions for the group. But now…
"We're breaking into two groups of three and each is fighting their own boar. I'll play forward for my group, Tetsuo will be the other forward." Swiftly and succinctly, Naruto had given the group orders and they had followed. No one looked to Keita, Naruto was in charge here.
"Why does Tetsuo play forward?" Keita snapped, unable to contain his ire. Receiving a glare from Ducker and Sachi, Keita ignored them and focused on Naruto.
"He has a shield," Naruto replied slowly, as if he wasn't sure whether Keita was joking or not. "Tetsuo will use it to absorb the Boar's charge and you two will hit the Boar with sword skills. I'll do the same with my sword."
Flushing red, Keita didn't deign to reply to Naruto. As Naruto finished divvying up the groups Keita stalked angrily off to the side. Not like he would say as much, but Keita had an inferiority complex to Naruto. No matter what he did, Sachi's focus was always on Naruto. Regardless of the new graphics card, or the new code he had written, Sachi was always more interested in Naruto. That had been bad enough, but now, Naruto was stealing his position and his group from him. Anger starting to boil over, Keita missed as his group went to aggro a boar.
The groups had broken into Tetsuo, Ducker, and Keita while Naruto kept Sachi and Sasamaru. This had two functions as far as Naruto was concerned, it kept Keita away from being under Naruto's direct commands, and it kept Ducker away from him.
Grumbling Keita failed to notice as Tetsuo blocked a charge leaving him and the boar unable to act. Ducker, however, did not miss his chance and struck with a 'Side Bite', the starting dagger skill. While 'Side Bite' was possibly the weakest starting skill of any weapon, it did bonus damage on a back stab. This was not a back stab. 20% of its health missing, the boar retreated.
"Keita?" distracted by his missing party member Tetsuo took his gaze off the 'Blue Boar'. The boar, on the other hand did not miss the chance presented.
"Tetsuo!" Ducker screeched as the boar trampled Tetsuo. When Tetsuo hit the ground, he was imparted with the tumble status. This prevented him from moving as the boar recovered. Stuck with fear, Ducker and Keita could only stare as the boar reared up to maul their friends face. Tetsuo closed his eyes waiting for the damage to come. After five seconds of nothing, Tetsuo finally worked up the courage to open his eyes. The boar was gone, in its place was Naruto.
Fire in his eyes, Naruto forced himself to take several deep breaths before speaking. "What happened?" Despite doing his best to restrain his anger, both Ducker and Keita flinched.
"I froze. It won't happen again." Bowing regretfully to Naruto, Ducker was repentant before his idol.
"They started the boar without me," Keita spoke idly. "don't look at me."
Grinding his teeth Naruto stopped himself from yelling at Keita. Opening his mouth to attempt to start a cavil conversation, Naruto was cut off.
"That's a real lame excuse, Keita." Sachi told him forcefully. "Your friend's life was in danger and you're acting like you don't care."
Surrounded by glares, Keita's calm exterior started to crack. "Well, you know, I should have started it and…" Talking in circles, Sachi's ire was growing when Tetsuo came to his rescue.
"Lay off of him." Tetsuo calmly spoke as he got to his feet. "I should never have taken my gaze off the boar. It's my fault."
"Well, everyone seems to be alright. Let's continue hunting unless there are any complaints?" If there were complaints, Naruto didn't stick around to find out as he led his two off to another boar.
Less than an hour later Keita marched miserably at the back of the group as they returned to the Town of Beginnings. Everyone else was in their highest spirits since getting stuck in this world. The reason for both of those things was currently leading them to their destination, Naruto. With excellent fighting, guidance, and tips, Naruto had helped them improve more in an hour then they had in two days. Finishing up their quest objectives, the group was headed back to town to get the next set and level up.
Keita knew he should be just as happy as the rest of them. He had finally gotten somewhere in this world; his friends had an incredibly strong fighter looking after them. Regardless of all of that, Keita was depressed. He wanted to be the one they looked up to. He wanted to be the one Sachi looked at with those glowing, trusting eyes of hers. But here he was, bringing up the rear, all but forgotten. Bad thoughts, compounding on each other, Keita's mood continued to decline while his friends' rose. Previously, Keita had always left a sort of relief when he saw the 'Entering Safe Zone' notice pop-up. Today, however, there was no relief to the weight he felt. His friends had been in no danger, not with Naruto there. Always Keita had been proud to lead his friends back with no losses suffered, today that was no longer enough.
Hearing someone walking beside him, Keita raised his head and looked over. "Hey dude, everything alright?" Sasamaru asked him quietly to avoid prying ears.
Opening his mouth to wave him off, Keita hesitated. "Is... is Naruto a better leader than me?" Keita asked nervously.
"Leader?" Sasamaru asked. Taking a moment to think it over the boys walked side-by-side for awhile before Sasamaru finally answered. "Yes, he is a better leader," Sasamaru bluntly finished. "However, you're a better friend Keita, and you're acting like he's replacing you for some reason."
"Isn't he though?" Keita replied stubbornly. "All of you look to him for directions."
"Uh, obviously?" Sasamaru replied baffled. "I mean he has real life fighting experience. On his first day in Goblin Slayer he was better than us dude."
Grimacing Keita had no reply. "I suppose I'll try to accept it better." Keita eventually relented.
"Thanks, man," Sasamaru told him with a smile. "Everyone is with you to the end. Don't you doubt that."
Finally smiling for the first time that day, Keita walked the rest of the way with his head held high.
In the teleport gate plaza, the six of them sat around laughing, waiting for Arthur's group to return. "Dude, we could be out killing more boar's," Ducker complained.
"Nah," Naruto lazily declined, completely relaxed, "We're moving onto wolves this afternoon."
"Is it wise to move onto harder enemies," Tetsuo asked nervously, "our boar killing still isn't perfect."
Snorting, Naruto waved Tetsuo off. "I'll keep you all safe against the wolves, also that level up did more than you might think at first."
"And if we want more experience against boars?" Keita asked haughtily.
"Keita!" Sachi reproached him.
"Don't worry about it," Naruto calmed her. "If you want to master fighting boars then go right ahead. It won't help though; the enemies will keep changing. It's fighting itself that you need to learn. To become one with your weapon, trust it as you trust yourself. When you reach that stage the form of the enemy will not matter. You will adapt, and you will win."
"Thank you for that, guru," Keita replied, rolling his eyes. As hard as he tried to blow it off, he was impressed. It was obvious Naruto knew how to fight. His skill was undeniable.
"Wow! Just what I would expect from Naruto-senpai," Ducker sighed longingly. "Sachi's so lucky to be a girl." Ducker whispered beneath his breath. Unfortunately for him, his attempt at whispering failed. The awkward silence that followed was left unbroken until Arthur showed up almost ten minutes later.
"Hey everyone! How did everything… go?" Trailing off as he walked up, Arthur noticed something was wrong with the group.
"Uh, good," Naruto asserted standing up to greet Arthur. "Everyone is level two now. You guys got to Horunka all right?"
"You bet we did!" Klein asserted. Pushing his way past Arthur, Klein took over regaling Naruto's group with the tale. "There we were, pushed to the brink by the elite wolf mob. Just when all hope seemed lost, I jumped into the air, came down and decapitated it in one hit!" Finishing his speech, Klein struck an epic pose.
"So, what you're saying is, you led your group to almost certain death and required a miracle to survive?" Naruto asked Klein dryly.
"Ugh," Klein replied, falling over as he lost his balance. "Well, that wasn't the part I was hoping you would focus on." Klein mumbled.
As everyone burst into laughter, tension eased. "So, what should we do now?" Arthur asked.
"I'm planning to take them out to hunt wolves. If I can get them to level three today, then we can all go to Horunka tomorrow." Naruto asserted.
"Level three today?" Dale asked disbelievingly. "It took us two days to do that. There's no way they can hit level three today."
"What?" Naruto replied confused. "Why wouldn't they hit level three today? All they need to complete is the fang quest, the fur quest, the kill count one, and one boar repeatable."
"Fur quest?" Arthur supplied questioningly.
"Uh yeah. It's one of the wolf ones you can accept in this city. I think it gives the most experience of the three, actually."
"Yeah, we never did it." Issin admitted for their group.
"Oh, it's in Argo's guidebook though, I've seen it." Naruto insisted.
"We didn't use it to look up wolves, man, I mean there's a lot in there. Don't got time to read it all." Klein complained.
"True," Naruto agreed, "It is very impressive."
"Yes, very impressive." Sachi echoed sourly. "Well let's get a move on with the quests then."
"Wait," Harry One called, "are we just expected to sit around for the rest of the day?"
"Hmm, there are dummies you can practice sword skills on in town," Naruto told them thoughtfully, "Additionally, there are a bunch of fetch quests, some logic quests, and other stuff. It should be easy to fill an afternoon."
"Well, you only have six people, two of us could go with you," Arthur logically added.
"That would lower experience per kill though," Naruto fired right back.
"Don't worry about us, Naruto," Klein informed him with a wink. "We'll find something to keep us entertained."
"That's what I'm worried about," Naruto replied with a smile. "Catch you guys later!"
"Now, hunting wolves is slightly different than hunting boars." Naruto informed the rest of his party while they walked. "They are faster, do more damage, and are less linear. However, their total health is similar to the boars. That means they will go down in two clean sword skills. Therefore, it will be the forward's job to stop the wolves and the other two will kill it. Any questions?"
"What if the forward can't stop it?" Tetsuo asked, slight fear entering his voice.
"They will, one way or another," Naruto smirked.
"What does that mean?" Keita asked testily, unable to completely let go of his anger.
"It means that the wolf will stop after it uses a major skill. Even if the forward misses the block the wolf won't be able to hit for half of their health. It's on the damage dealers to deal with the wolf at that point."
"Sounds easy enough," Sachi said confidently from her position beside Naruto.
"Easy for you to say," Keita complained, "He won't let an enemy even look at you."
"I think we will change the groups," Naruto declared. "Sachi you're with Tetsuo, Keita you're coming with me."
"Fine," Sachi sighed, understanding why Naruto was doing it.
"Don't expect any kisses from me if you help me out," Keita snapped.
"I wouldn't mind!" Ducker told them, killing the mood yet again.
"Well, here we are." Naruto told the group dramatically as they reached the top of the hill. Spread out below the group was knee-high grass with game trails weaved through them. "The wolves are hard to spot from far away so be careful not to split up. You know everything else you need to handle this, just stay calm."
As Naruto's words washed over the group, the building tension washed away. His confidence and tone of voice made others desire to put their faith in him. Naruto gave off the feeling that if you followed his instructions everything would be fine. He gave off the aura of a leader.
"Wow…" Ducker's sentiment was shared by the others of the group, "what a man…" While Sachi still agreed, Ducker had lost the other's here.
Finding the first wolf, Naruto easily caught its bite with his sword immobilizing them both. Taking advantage of this pause, Sasamaru and Keita easily finished it off. Acknowledging their deed with a nod, Naruto turned to check up on how Tetsuo's group was doing. While he wouldn't say it out loud, Naruto was concerned about how Sachi would do without him there. His fears appeared to be baseless as Sachi released a 'Thrusting Strike' ending their group's wolf. Nodding, Naruto turned back to his group as they set out to find another wolf.
A few wolves later, Naruto was distracted by a notification. Reading the message, colour drained from his face. "I got to head back to the city. Do what you want, just don't die!" Leaving his final advice, Naruto began sprinting back to the Town of Beginnings.
"Well, that was random," Ducker eventually said.
"Hmm, I doubt it," Tetsuo disagreed, "If he received a message then one of his other friends are probably in danger."
"How?" Sasamaru disagreed, "They were all going to stay in the town for the afternoon."
Frowning Sachi kept her worries to herself. Not all of Naruto's friends were in the city, one was on the front lines. As much as Sachi didn't like Argo she didn't wish for her death. "Stay safe," Sachi whispered, hoping for his safe return.
"Do we head back then?" Ducker asked the group.
"He said we could do what we want, so we will continue hunting," Keita asserted.
"Alright," Tetsuo nodded, "as one group or two?"
Opening his mouth to reply, Keita slowly let it close. Keita hesitated, trying to figure out the answer to a question that Naruto would have instinctively known.
"Why not stay as one group?" Sachi probed. "since Tetsuo is our only real forward then our damage dealers can take turns. This also gives us more options if we aggro multiple by accident."
"Good thinking, Sachi," Keita replied sagely. "Took the words right out of my mouth." Sweating, Keita tried to play off his ignorance.
"I bet she did," Tetsuo sighed, not fooled by Keita's acting.
Running through the streets, Naruto received strange looks from the people whom he passed. The message he had gotten had been from Arthur. Apparently, when they were out doing quests in the city they ran into issues with another group. Now, the two groups were duelling to determine who was right. 'How did it come to this?' Naruto thought to himself. Klein's group was older, as adults they should've been able to calm down any situation without a duel. Screeching to a halt at the location he had been sent, Naruto was a mixture of nerves and fury. Evaluating the situation, Naruto sighed. It reminded him of elementary school. Two sides of kids at odds with each other but both too scared to do anything about it.
"What's up?" Naruto greeted them as he walked between the two halves.
"Here he is!" Klein shouted dramatically, "He'll kick your leader's ass!"
"Huh?" Naruto's confusion was met by laughter from the other group.
"Him?" One of them asked. "He doesn't look like he could kill a boar."
Swallowing his pride, Naruto ignored them and turned to Arthur for an explanation. "Well?"
"Uh," Arthur awkwardly began, "We ran into them on a quest and only one group can complete it at a time. They said they should go first because they're working to help clear the game. Klein and his buddies went off on them saying they were helping the best player in the game…"
Cutting Arthur off with his hand, Naruto had to ask, "Me?"
"Yeah, so anyways, their leader said that he would duel this best player and the winning group would go first."
"Wait," Naruto asked, "how long does it take for each group to go?"
"About half an hour," A voice from the other group answered. Turning around Naruto was faced with a man possessing the bluest hair he had seen. "Diavel's the name. I'm looking forward to our duel." The rest of the group smirked, assuming their victory was assured.
"I see," Naruto coldly replied. Based on the time it had taken for him to get here one group could be finishing up right about now. It was obvious this Diavel character had wanted a fight. "Then you're on."
A wave of his hand and a couple button pushes later, Naruto received a duel request. 'Diavel has challenged you to a half-finish duel. Do you accept?' Pressing the yes button, Naruto drew his sword. Upon seeing his anneal blade, the taunts from Diavel's group shrunk.
"Impressive blade," Diavel said tersely.
"Thanks," Naruto replied with a lazy smile.
Put off by Naruto's lackadaisical attitude, Diavel assumed a fighting position. While he had complimented Naruto's gear, his was by no means shabby. Wielding in his left hand a 'Metal Buckler' and a 'Bronze Sword' in his right, Diavel had upgraded his equipment. Naruto knew from experience that both of those items were for sale in Horunka. Most likely, to have gotten that far and back already Diavel was either a beta tester or had access to knowledge.
Dropping into fighting position as well, Naruto waited out the last ten seconds of the counter. At zero, Naruto began stalking forward, but Diavel smirked and fell into an unfamiliar high stance. As his sword began to glow, Naruto realized that Diavel had learntthe next sword skill, 'Rage Spike'. From his time talking with Argo, Naruto knew that this was a very versatile skill that had a long range. It was recommended that he pick it up when his one-handed sword hit 50. However, it was currently sitting around 45.
Years of fighting experience let Naruto make a split-second decision. Leaping back before the sword skill even went off, Diavel's eyes widened with panic. The range of 'Rage Spike' was three metres. If Naruto exited that range, then… hair blown back from the wind of the sword skill, Naruto smirked at Diavel's terrified face.
The 'Vertical' landed right on top of Diavel's head. With no helmet of protection, the critical noise also rang out. Health falling, Diavel was blown back to the place he had taken off from.
Getting up with a groan, Diavel's health hovered around 60%. "What an annoying strategy," Diavel whined.
"Your fault for leading with an obvious sword skill," Naruto shrugged.
"What do you mean!?" Diavel raged back, "the only way you can fight in this game is sword skills!"
With an evil smile on his face, Naruto replied, "I look forward to proving you wrong."
Stalking forward, Diavel hesitated before raising his shield to meet his advance. Feinting to Diavel's shield side, Diavel jabbed with his shield attempting to knock Naruto off balance. Meeting no resistance, Diavel had no time to be stunned as Naruto's sword came from the other direction connecting with his head. Stumbling, Diavel's health fell another 5% leaving him barely in the duel. Yelling with rage, Diavel started up a 'Horizontal'.
Seeing the move coming a mile away, Naruto sighed. He had thought this fight would be interesting, oh well. Deciding to leave his mark on the duel, Naruto didn't retreat out of the skills range. Waiting for the skills activation, Naruto jumped and flipped his body in the direction the swing was coming from. Fluidly rising out of his roll, Naruto remained untouched. He had effectively flipped over Diavel's sword skill. Mouth flapping, Diavel received Naruto's lazy thrust into his chest bringing the duel to a close.
"You should practice moving your body," Naruto commented sheathing his sword. Leaving a gaping Diavel behind, Naruto walked back to his friends. "Well, I fought your fight for you. Next time, it's not happening."
As they stammered to come up with a response, Naruto left them behind to return to the wolf plains.
"Rargh!" Ducker yelled as he executed a swift 'Side Bite' which was promptly dodged by the wolf. This movement left Ducker in front of Sasamaru's sword skill. Taking the damage Ducker went rolling with a grunt.
"Guys!" Sachi shouted stamping her foot. However, everyone else was panicking and firing off sword skills as soon as possible. Without a clear target the wolf was just running around them doing the odd bite. Eventually, the wolf burst into polygons as Tetsuo caught it with a 'Hammerfall'.
"Yeah, I think we should go back to the way Naruto showed us guys," Tetsuo complained nervously. All four of them had fallen below 50% health. Most of it self-inflicted. Sachi had avoided most of the damage by refusing to participate in the new battle strategy Keita had forced them into.
"Yes, you will be going back to my way," Naruto's cold voice broke in. Looking at him, the four boys broke into a nervous sweat. "I just wasted my time, so I'm not happy right now. I don't care whose stupid idea that was, we're going back to what works."
"So, everyone is okay?" Sachi asked.
"Ah, yeah." Naruto confirmed, "They just got stuck in a posturing contest and I had to sort it out. Now, drink a potion and break into groups, Let's go!"
Not wanting to draw Naruto's ire, they swallowed their replies and followed his instructions.
Returning to an out of the way inn, Naruto sighed as he sat down across from Arthur.
"Long day?" Arthur asked sympathetically.
"Yeah, and that little stunt you guys pulled didn't help either." Naruto told him with a glare.
"Sorry, sorry," Arthur surrendered. "I should've tried harder to defuse it, but to hear them make fun of us, and you… I guess we just got too heated."
"And you wanted to see if I could actually beat the guy," Naruto added on dryly.
"Haha, that too I suppose," Arthur laughed, embarrassed.
"Oh, well. I'm glad it wasn't something more serious."
"So, you aren't mad at us?" Arthur asked cautiously.
"No, I do wish the dude had been a bit better, but whatever. He clearly specializes in killing monsters and has no experience fighting things that can think." Naruto sighed.
"Yeah," Arthur agreed nodding, "I feel like most people will end up like that though. Good at killing monsters, but unable to fight real people."
"I only hope that they don't have to fight real people," Naruto said seriously, "if it comes to that then something has gone seriously wrong."
"Um," Arthur hesitated, unsure whether he should worry his friend. "Well, walking around town this afternoon, we heard some rumors."
"Rumors?"
"Yeah, apparently deaths have started to roll in, and the blame is going to the beta testers. I don't know why, Kayaba trapped people in here."
"Kayaba isn't here," Naruto explained sadly, "the beta testers are."
"Ah, a scapegoat."
"Precisely," Naruto agreed, "I imagine most of the beta testers are aware of this and are in the later towns trying to get strong enough to dissuade anyone from attacking."
"Makes sense," Arthur agreed nodding.
"However," Naruto commented, "a large portion of the deaths are most likely those beta testers."
"What? Why would you say that?"
"Well, a larger portion of them are probably comfortable going out to hunt, and there have been some changes from the beta. The swamps reduce more movement speed than they used to for example."
At Naruto's response Arthur could only gape for awhile as the gears turned in his head. "T-that's… wow."
"Wow, indeed," Naruto agreed with a laugh.
"Do you think there's a way we can help reduce the deaths?" Arthur asked nervously.
"Yes, we can get out to the frontier and help Argo collect information."
"Ah," Arthur exclaimed. Looking down Arthur was conflicted as guilt tore through him. He was part of the reason Naruto returned here. If Naruto had been out there, how many people would have been saved?
"It's not your fault," Naruto asserted, reading Arthur's emotions. "Coming back was something I needed to do. Besides, when we all get out there, it will do far more than I could ever do by myself."
Laughing, Arthur could only shake his head at his friend, "You're some leader, you know that?"
"So, I've been told," Naruto replied, laughing along with his friend.
After some time had passed, Arthur awkwardly asked, "Are you heading back to Sachi tonight?"
"W-well, I was thinking of staying with you… you know if that's alright." Naruto answered, just as awkwardly.
"Is everything alright between you two?" Arthur asked curiously. "You didn't try to, uh, you know, force things?"
"No!" Naruto replied indignantly, "well, I don't think so, but women are so strange!" Holding his head in his hands, Naruto complained to Arthur.
"Don't you worry, friend!" Arthur answered with a smile, "Arthur's here to answer all of your questions!"
"But you've never had a girlfriend," Naruto replied confused.
"Hey, while you've had personal contact with them, I've been observing. Your vision is clouded by being inside their influence. By remaining neutral I have attained knowledge you would've required decades to attain."
"I call bullshit," Naruto sighed, "but I suppose it can't hurt to tell you…"
"What!" Exclaiming after hearing Naruto's story, Arthur stood up. "She, she always seemed so timid…" Staring off into the distance with glazed eyes, Arthur's world turned upside down.
"Uh, I was hoping for a little more," Naruto answered, growing uncomfortable at the far-off look in Arthur's eyes.
"B-But, it's just so crazy! I mean, Sachi!" Arthur continued to shout, unable to deal with the information provided.
"It was just a kiss…, so, are we good then?" Naruto asked, wanting to change the topic to anything else.
"Yeah, yeah, we're fine," Arthur replied, still dazed.
"I've decided, I'm going to go see Sachi." Talking quickly, Naruto extracted himself from the chair and darted out of the inn. "What the hell was that?" Naruto complained to himself as he hurried back to Sachi's room.
"Come in!" Opening the door, Naruto walked cautiously into Sachi's room.
"Hey, I hope I didn't wake you or anything."
"No, I was hoping you'd come back tonight," Sachi replied nervously. "I thought we could, uh, you know… try again?"
"Sachi, look, I need to ask you a question."
Seeing Naruto's serious face, Sachi gulped. "W-what is it?"
"Last night, that warning said undesired contact. Was it undesired?" Nerves, cracking his voice, Naruto maintained eye contact with Sachi.
"N-no," Sachi stuttered, "I was enjoying it, I swear."
"I see," Looking down, Naruto replied sadly. He had experience interacting with people, with bringing out the best of people on his sports team. Naruto could spot lies, especially in someone with no experience lying. "I'm sorry I pushed you, I should've known better. I'll go stay with Arthur. Night." Turning around to leave, Naruto's hand was on the handle when Sachi's voice rang out.
"Wait!" Sachi shouted panicked. "I thought I was ready, but I panicked. It's not your fault, its mine!"
Hesitating in the doorway Naruto paused. "Do you mean that?" Seeing the fear in Naruto's eyes caused Sachi pain. "I've been worrying about it all day. Wondering whether you really did want me…"
As Naruto trailed off, Sachi's chest clenched. She had caused him so much worry, all because she was a coward. "I'm sorry, Naruto."
"Well, I guess, I'll uh see you tomorrow then. Big day, you should be well rested."
"Won't you stay?" Sachi asked timidly. "I did mention, um., trying again." Staring at his blushing sort-of girlfriend Naruto's inner desires awoke, he wanted to kiss her and never stop.
Coughing awkwardly to buy time. Naruto slowly replied, trying to find the right words. "I think, we should go more slowly. That way, I don't push you into anything, and we can, um., continue to get closer?"
Gaping at the awkward Naruto, Sachi began giggling. "I don't think you can take a relationship much slower than ours."
"Well, we were only friends before," Naruto retorted, "I don't think we can add that time trying to further that. Actually, we haven't even gone on a date yet, have we?"
"True," Sachi sighed. "and I'm sorry about what happened last time."
"It's OK," Naruto assured her. "Was it something in particular I did?"
"N-not really," Sachi stammered, "it's just when you went to kiss me, I guess it reminded me of those boys… I panicked initially. Sorry."
"It's not your fault, I should have been more receptive to how you felt."
"I guess we'll just have to take things slowly," Sachi pouted.
Patting the grumbling Sachi on the head, Naruto helped ease her conscious. "Look, we will work through it together, alright?" Seeing his girlfriend perk up a little, Naruto breathed a sigh of relief. "Let's just go to bed for today."
"Fine," Sachi sighed. "I was looking forward to it though."
"I know, I know" Naruto said gently, stroking her back. Crawling into bed Naruto wrapped his arm around Sachi. falling into a deep sleep, Naruto was much more comfortable with life than he had been yesterday.
Friday Nov 11th, 2022
Walking along the path at a fast pace, Naruto began to feel conflicted. Did he have any right to feel as happy as he did, while technically being a prisoner? Thinking about it, did he really regret putting the Nerve Gear on and coming to this world? To see the limits of what was possible shattered? If he was being honest, Naruto would rather be in the game than sitting beside Sachi's and Arthur's bedside praying. He could do something from here. Telling himself this was the only reason why he was happy to be here, Naruto refocused on his journey to Horunka. The monotonous scenery of tall grass made it easy for the mind to wander but Naruto stayed sharp as he carefully observed the scenery. Realistically, Naruto knew that with thirteen people anyone dying was a slim possibility, but still, it was his job to keep them safe.
Wind blowing, the group continued down a wide dirt road. They were approximately two-thirds of the way to Horunka and the danger was only beginning. Along the main path, spawns were far and few in between. Venturing off the path even 10 metres, however, could lead a player into swarms of enemies they hadn't noticed. It was for this reason that Naruto had picked up the 'Search' skill. After talking intensely with Argo about it on their trip to Horunka, Naruto had decided it was the best option. With the search skill, Naruto could maximize hunting while staying safe. The downside was obviously losing access to a combat skill.
Snapping his head to the right, Naruto's eyes detected rustling from the grass. As he stopped, the rest of the group stared confused at each other. Knowing better than to make noise, they stood there in awkward silence as Naruto measured the danger.
"Only a stray wolf, not worth our time," Naruto eventually said, before continuing.
"Wolf?" Keita asked scathingly, "there was nothing there."
"Keita!" Sachi reproached him.
"Dude's got a point," Dale added. "Field's empty."
Sighing, Naruto pulled out his sword. Dashing into the field, Naruto parried the fangs of a wolf before finishing it with a 'Slant'. Sheathing his sword, Naruto turned around to meet white faces.
"And that is why you never doubt the guy," Arthur said smugly, "you'll learn eventually."
"Maybe. You can't learn if you're dead though. Remember that."
"Hey, ease up on the lads," Klein breezily commented, "If the eight of us survived the journey, we've got nothing to fear from having more people."
"Not true," Naruto rebuked Klein. "I've learned quite a but about the game. Apparently, when there are large groups of allied players, the game will increase the number of mobs in group spawns. This means it isn't a total waste to hunt in large groups, and it doesn't affect smaller groups which go after isolated mobs anyways."
"Well that's just cruel!" Klein gasped, "Also it seems like an exploitable mechanic."
"Actually, that was my first thought too," Naruto answered with a smile, "but according to Argo, every group that tried to exploit increased spawns had the technique work for about ten minutes before it failed. It was originally thought that GM's were trolling them, but the reaction was too quick. No one knows how, but the game can detect you attempting to exploit it."
"W-what!? The server is an AI?" Klein's panicked shouts drew everything from giggles to gales of laughter.
"Alright, I'll bite," Naruto sighed, "what was funny about that?"
"Oh right. You have a techno-phobia," Arthur laughed.
"It wasn't really that funny, Naruto," Sachi explained calmly to him. "The concept of designing an AI advanced enough to do something like that is ridiculous, that's all."
"True," Tetsuo agreed, "the amount of time you would have to put into making something like that would overshadow even the creation of this world."
"And why would that be?" Naruto asked, once again revealing his shortcomings.
This time Keita took the chance to answer the question. "Don't you know anything? Creating an AI that can read human intentions and move to block their actions would be revolutionary. While Kayaba is undoubtedly a genius, even he wouldn't have the time to push AI design that far."
"Obviously," Naruto replied rolling his eyes. "Anyways, keep a look out, I don't want anyone falling victim to an 'Alpha Small Wolf'."
"And what, may I ask, is that?" Ducker nervously queried.
"The elite wolf mob that spawns on these plains. Devilishly hard to track down according to Argo. They never stop moving, eternally circling their domain."
"You don't have to make them sound so sinister," Klein complained, "They won't attack a group this big."
"True," Naruto admitted, "but they can howl and call in enough reinforcements to do it."
Shivering at Naruto's smile, Klein bit back his reply and refocused on the scenery. "It's so boring out there!"
"You can't shut up for a minute, can you, Klein?" Kunimittz complained, fed up with Klein's whining.
"The day I don't whine, is the day I have officially made it," Klein declared proudly.
"So, if we tape your mouth shut, does that count?" Issin asked sarcastically.
Becoming the laughingstock of the group, Klein began to pout. Head down, Klein took his gaze off where he was supposed to keeping a watch out for encroaching enemies.
"Watch out!" Naruto's panicked shout was too late for Dale who was jumped on by a 'Small Wolf'. Due to receiving an undefended blow, Dale got a tumble debuff, preventing him from immediately rising. Recovering from its 'Leap' skill, the wolf began its most powerful skill, 'Feast'. Only usable against prone enemies, this was how the wolf mobs had racked up kills against players in the beta. Ambush someone, knock them down, and 'Feast' on them.
An almost invisible 'Horizontal' decimated the 'Small Wolf' halting the 'Feast' skill halfway through. "Are you alright?" Naruto asked the traumatized Dale gently.
"Uh, yeah I think so," Dale replied, slowly standing back up. Despite being level three, the damage from the wolf had taken close to half of Dale's health.
"Alright, drink a potion and, shit!" Peeling away from the conversation Naruto swung his sword meeting the 'Leap' of a wolf. "Prepare for battle!" Naruto roared.
The sight of a friend suddenly mauled combined with another wolf appearing seemingly from nowhere, panic overcame the group. As another two wolves emerged from the grass, Sachi's scream rang out further disorientating the group.
"Focus," Naruto commanded, his voice cutting through the chatter of the others. "Protect each other. Don't let them bring you down."
As orders came out, panic started to fade. They had instructions, all they had to do was what Naruto said. Possessing this knowledge made it easier for them to stay calm and do their job.
Blocking one wolf with his sword and dodging another, Naruto made it look easy. Refusing to be protected, Dale released a 'Berserk Blow' against the closest wolf. Possessing the only two-handed sword in the group, Dale dealt big damage when his skill connected. The balance came from the long post-skill freeze time and the difficultly of properly wielding the blade.
Following Dale, Klein unleashed a 'Reaver' to finish off the first wolf. Seemingly dancing, Naruto kept the other two at bay. Smiling at how easy the encounter had turned out to be, Klein let his guard down. Hearing a growl Klein turned around to meet a wolf impacting his chest.
"Klein!" the shouts rang out from the members of Klein's group. Dale was too far away and was restricted by his heavy weapon. Issin, Harry one, Dynamm, and Kunimittz froze upon seeing their leader downed. Fear rearing, they were either unable or unwilling to help Klein.
"I've got you!" coming in with a roar, Tetsuo unleashed a 'Hammerfall' on the wolf. Hammer connecting with its head, the wolf splintered into polygons and the hammer kept going.
"Oof," heaving awkwardly at taking a hammer to the chest, Klein's health fell even more. In response to taking damage, Tetsuo's cursor changed colour. Confused by the turn of events, they didn't have time to focus on the new situation as Arthur's voice cut through the din.
"Focus!" blocking another wolf, Arthur yelled at the idle men. Centering themselves on dealing with the wolves, the group was finally working as a coordinated unit again.
"Finally!" Ducker sighed as the last wolf died, impaled upon Sachi's spear. "Felt like they'd never end."
"Yeah," Klein agreed with a smile, "Once we got ourselves centred though it was easy enough."
Nodding their assent, the group exchanged high fives and congratulations. "What's up with Tetsuo's cursor though?" Keita asked, breaking the cheer.
"I'm already working on it," Naruto replied tersely. Menu opened, Naruto typed a terse message to Argo. "In the meantime, let's continue to Horunka."
With no more surprises, the group approached the outer wall of the village less than twenty minutes later. Unlike the Town of Beginnings, Horunka was a proper town. Made entirely out wood, the wall stood no more than three metres high and fifteen centimetres thick. At the entrance stood two guards. Equipped with a full suit of bronze armour, the imposing soldiers each held a halberd loosely in their right hand.
Used to the familiar sight by now, the group payed them no mind as they marched triumphantly into the town. First Naruto with Arthur and Sachi, then Klein and his group walked into Horunka. As Keita's group marched through after them, the guards took up their halberds and crossed them in front of Tetsuo.
"No criminal will enter Horunka!"
"Halt, your kind isn't welcome here!"
At the guards shouted lines, the ones who had entered Horunka already turned around to see what had happened. "Whoa! Criminal? Who?" At Ducker's excited voice, everyone finally homed in on Tetsuo's orange cursor.
"Seriously?" Klein whined, "the dude was just helping me out."
"Is there any way to change this?" Tetsuo asked the guards nervously.
After a brief delay, the guards eventually replied. "If the crime had been murder, no redemption would be possible."
"However, for bodily harm there is a mission that you can complete."
Swallowing, Tetsuo asked, "and what is this mission."
"You must go into the surrounding forest."
"And pick 10 of the 'Thyme' herbs. When you return to us."
"We will consider you redeemed." The second guard finished.
"Well that sucks," Sasamaru told his friend helpfully.
"Thanks," Tetsuo replied sarcastically. Looking sheepish, Sasamaru backed away. Taking his place, Naruto walked over. "Unfortunately, it seems like you have to do it on your own," Naruto told Tetsuo sympathetically. "The game will know if we even just point it out to you."
"How do you know that?" Keita asked suspiciously.
"Argo," Naruto replied simply, "she said any redemption quest not done completely solo always fails."
Sighing, Tetsuo hung his head. "Well, I guess I'll see you tomorrow."
"What I don't understand, is why this is the only time this has happened," Arthur queried, "I mean, I've seen the guys hit each before."
"I got an answer for that too," Naruto sighed despondently, "Tetsuo isn't in Klein's party. Since we had to break into two parties, only people from the same party can damage each other and not be marked. However, as the party leader you can change the settings so that friendly damage will always be considered a crime."
"Rough, dude," Klein moaned. "come have as many drinks as you want on me when you get back. I owe you!"
"Sorry Tetsuo," Naruto sighed, "but there's no way around this."
"Yeah, I understand." Tetsuo replied staying stoic. "I'll be back in an hour or so, I suppose."
"Stay at the edges of the forest. You'll find herbs to pick there and avoid enemies at the same time." Naruto advised.
"Thanks," Tetsuo nodded, "bye guys."
"Later."
"Stay safe."
"See ya!"
Giving a Tetsuo a quick hug before he set out, Sachi attempted to keep the fear off her face as Tetsuo set off into the forest. As Tetsuo left sight, Sachi turned around and buried her face into Naruto's shoulder.
"He'll be fine, right?" Sachi whispered so only Naruto could hear.
"Of course, he will be," Naruto whispered back, ignoring Keita's jealous stare.
Sachi started to shake in Naruto's arms. Wrapping her tightly in his arms, Naruto gently stroked her head. "Can't you go after him?" Sachi asked, knowing the answer.
"I'm Sorry, Sachi." Naruto replied gently. "I could, but it wouldn't help anything, you know that."
"It's just so unfair though! Tetsuo did nothing wrong!" Sachi complained.
"You're right. We were caught off guard due to lack of information. As time goes on this will happen less frequently."
"But when it does?" Sachi inquired fearfully. "What if it's our lives on the line next time we're ignorant?"
"Then we just won't be ignorant," Naruto asserted, "and for that we need information."
"Which means we need Argo," Sachi grumbled.
"Yes, we do."
"I know she's helping keep us alive, I do." Sachi slowly said. "But that doesn't mean I have to like her."
"As long as you work together," Naruto chuckled. Hearing him laugh at her, Sachi pouted at her boyfriend. "You're adorable when you do that, you know that?"
Looking away, Sachi blushed at the compliment. "You've said that before. You should work on your compliments."
"Hmm, maybe Argo can sell me some," Naruto responded teasingly.
Pouting again, Sachi sulked out of Naruto's arms and walked further into town. "I'm going to go sit down." Chuckling lightly to himself, Naruto followed after Sachi.
"Shouldn't he be back by now?" Sachi asked nervously.
"It's only been an hour," Naruto replied calmly sitting at a booth at an inn. Arm around Sachi, Naruto attempted to keep her calm as Tetsuo was off farming herbs. "He's probably just being careful to avoid enemies."
"Yeah, his health is still full in the party…"
"Exactly, if it drops at all I will personally rush out to help him." Naruto told her, trying to keep Sachi calm. However, a slight shake in his voice gave him away.
"Is something wrong?" Sachi asked curiously, "I mean beside Tetsuo being a… a criminal."
"Well, um, I don't want to lie to you, but it shouldn't effect us…" Trailing off, Naruto skirted around the question.
"Tell me please. If you don't, it will continue to haunt me."
Looking into his girlfriend's resolute eyes, Naruto sighed, "fine, you can only fix the orange status twice."
"What do you mean by that?" Sachi asked quietly.
"I mean, the third time you become a criminal, there is no redemption quest. In the beta, dying would reset this. However, dying as a criminal would invoke a higher penalty than normal. In this world though…" Trailing off, Naruto felt Sachi begin to shake.
"But how can they consider every crime the same? And Tetsuo is innocent!" Crying out loud, Sachi drew the gazes of the rest of the patrons in the bar.
"W-well, the system might have some allotments in it now that you can't, uh, respawn…" Naruto anxiously replied, trying to appease her.
Looking around at the attention she'd drawn Sachi lowered her head embarrassed before seating herself beside Naruto again. "Sorry for making a scene."
As Sachi looked down, fear mixing with anxiety on her face, Naruto felt a strong desire to protect her. She didn't deserve to be trapped in this world and wasn't tough enough to endure it. Squeaking, Sachi looked at Naruto in surprise as he pulled her close. "It'll be OK Sachi," Naruto whispered, "I won't let you die."
Upon hearing those words an unseen tension seemed to release from Sachi. "every day," Sachi began tearfully, "Every day since this game started I've felt like I would die here. Thank you, Naruto, maybe we will get out of here."
Hope filling Sachi's voice, Naruto's heart warmed. He would protect this girl, she deserved it. If he achieved anything in this world, Sachi would survive to see the end, that he swore. Footsteps echoed, interrupting his thoughts, glaring at who would approach him Naruto saw two overweight men with glazed eyes stumbling towards him. "Can I help you?" Hearing his ice-cold voice, the two men paused a meter away.
Looking at each other to remember their courage the larger one stepped forward. Possessing deep sunk eyes and greasy black hair, Naruto disliked him instantly. "So, you found yourself a piece of eye candy to keep you sane in here, eh?"
Initial thoughts confirmed, Naruto released Sachi and rose to his feet. Before he could tell them to go away, his job was taken care of for him. "It's time for you two to go." Faces pale, the two goons turned around and had to tilt their heads back to stare at the man who had stopped them. Standing well over six feet, the man was of African American descent yet spoke fluent Japanese. With a large battle axe hanging over his shoulder, he was the definition of intimidating. Swallowing pitifully, the two goons all but ran away without a word of complaint.
"You two alright over here?" the giant asked, voice surprisingly soft.
"Yes," Naruto hesitantly replied, "assuming you aren't after Sachi as well."
Face cracking into a smile, the man's aura of toughness disappeared. "Fret not, I got a wife back home waiting for me." As the man turned into a large teddy bear, Naruto wasn't sure whether he was disappointed or relieved.
"Thank you, sir," Sachi told him respectfully.
"Now there's no need for that little lady, name's Agil!"
"Well, then I'm Sachi and this is my boyfriend Naruto." Sachi replied happily.
"I think everyone in here figured that out based on the touching," Agil replied dryly.
Blushing, Sachi stammered out a response, "N-Naruto is just helping me."
"I'm not saying anything wrong with that," Agil said defensively, "and I'm sorry, but I must be hearing your name wrong sir, can I get it one more time?"
Briefly confused, Naruto ire rose as he realized the issue. "No, you didn't hear it wrong." Naruto spat out between clenched teeth.
"But you didn't… I mean…" As Agil broke down into laughter, Naruto's face continued to grow harder.
"Are you done yet?" Naruto growled at the man.
Wiping away his tears, Agil stood back up. "Hey, easy there, man. I don't want no beef. I just can't… I mean…" As gales of laughter overcame Agil again, Naruto's hands shook with rage.
"Easy, Naruto. It's alright." Grabbing her boyfriend to prevent him from doing anything rash, Sachi tried to calm Naruto down.
Looking at Sachi's worried eyes, the rage flowed away. "You're right, I'm sorry."
"No, I'm the one that should be apologizing," Agil broke in, "hearing that name just got me going."
"Ah, well it's my name," Naruto replied lamely.
"Well, I'll be seeing you around then man, alright?" with that Agil left the two of them behind.
"Well he seems nice at least," Sachi said timidly after some time had passed.
"I suppose," Naruto replied dully, rubbing his temples. "I didn't realize how big of an impact this name would have on some people."
"It is one of the most well-known anime of all time," Sachi replied disbelievingly, "you can't expect people to not react to a name like that."
"Yeah, yeah, I know," Naruto told her disheartened.
"Well, back to waiting I guess," Sachi said glumly. "I just hope Tetsuo is alright."
"I am," a voice broke in causing them surprise. Turning around, there was Tetsuo, walking over to the two of them.
"You're safe!" Sachi shouted, dragging Tetsuo into an awkward hug.
"Yeah," Tetsuo nodded, "never even saw a monster."
"Tetsuo," Hesitating, Naruto eventually continued, "I have something to tell you."
Meeting Naruto's resolute gaze, Tetsuo nodded. "Go ahead." After hearing what Naruto had to say however, the resolute gaze was replaced by a pale sheet. "T-there's a criminal limit? But I mean…" Sighing, Tetsuo held his head in his hands. "Why is it always me…"
Author's note:
Hopefully you enjoyed the longest chapter so far. More killing boars and wolves! Also we finally found the rest of the Black Cats! I enjoy how I'm writing Ducker, but if everyone hates it I'll ease off.
Please continue to review so I can improve :)
Later!