A/N:This is a One-shot series that takes place after SAO:FatalBullet. However, some things have changed. It'll be more accurate toward the animation instead of the game, meaning thats ome of the characters did not enter GGO.
Also, I may consider making it part of the same universe as my Metal Gear Omega (MGO) Fanfic series; like a spin-off.
Disclaimer: Ido not Own Sword Art Online nor Sword Art Online: Fatal Bullet, they are owned by RekiKawahara; Aniplex; and Bandai Entertainment. This is just a fanfiction made just for fun. Please support the Official releases. Also, Fallout New Vegas is also owned by Bethesda and Obsidian Entertainment.
Backgrounds:
The story will take place after the Sword Art Online animation, Sword Art Online: Fatal Bullet and it's DLC's. Meaning certain characters do not exist in this story.
Instead of just the hero, his older sister also joined up with Kureha in the beginning. Meaning both the boy and girl heroes both gotten an Arfa-Sys, since the Arfa-Sys are twins. The Heroine also has a more deeper emotion toward Itsuki then the brother. But they both have deep connection with all the characters.
Main hero - Ryuji (Ryu) Aikawa [Ryuka]:
He joined Gun Gale Online to meet up with his old childhood-friend, Kureha (Takamine Momoiki). He uses a Sylph Type-D assault rifle, but mains a photon sword like Kirito. He is a HUGE nerd toward Star Wars and would use it like a Jedi. He would train with Kirito and plan to someday beat him. He would also use a revolver once a while like a cowboy; he is also into western movies like the Dollar Trilogy or the gangster movies like Goodfellas, which are some of the reasons why he joined Gun Gale Online.
Kureha (Takamine Momoiki): His relationship with Kureha was at first like old childhood friends; but to him, she means more to him than anyone. When Kureha left him and his squadron, he felt heartbroken, but he understood. He knew Kureha wanted to be strong and have a place somewhere. She doesn't want to be in her sister's shadow forever. If only she knows how much she means to him.
Zeliska (Hoshiyama Midoriko): Zeliska is his partner in crime, and also his go-to friend when it comes to advices. He can't go to Kureha some of the time, since it's mostly about her; and, his sister is not so good on advices either. Zeliska would also tease Ryuji but she see's him as the little brother she never had.
Itsuki (Sai Yukitsugu): Itsuki was Ryuji's best friend. The two would go hunting, training, or just chat about anything. It was as if they were brothers; however, when he made the death game for him and his sister, he felt betrayed, but Ryuji couldn't pull the trigger at him. After the events of Fatal Bullet, Ryuji thought about what to do, and decided to bring him back no matter what. However, when he came back and save his sister, he wanted to return so badly. In the end, he agreed to come back. The funny thing is... he still didn't tell him why he came to VR.
Since then, it was just like old times...
Hero's Arfa-Sys: Eva
Main Heroine - Hanako (Hana) Aikawa [Kana]:
Hanako is Ryuji's older sister; She has seen the relationship between her brother and Ryuji, and was determined to get those two together. When she heard that he's gonna meet her again, she joined too. Little did she knew, she would also find her best friend and the man who would steal her heart, and breaks it. She's a Police Officer in reality with zero experience in love. She uses a 12-guage shotgun with no stock and uses firebreath mags; and dual-wields two Colt M1911 pistols. She is not into sci-fi like her brother, but she was very into the gangsters movies (which is ironic since she's a cop) because she enjoyed how handsome those menacing men look. Maybe that's why she became a cop?
Her relationship with Kureha is like sisters. She would beg her to call her big sis, despite the fact that she already has one. She would even tell Kureha embarrassing moments about her brother, because that's what siblings do... they annoy you to death. Hana would also secretly encourage Kureha to date her brother, for she knows how much she means to him. Unfortunately, she had zero results.
Zeliska is her best friend. Even on their days off, they'd go shopping together, both in real life and in-game. The two would gossip about their jobs and all the cute boys they'd meet. However, out of the two, Zeliska is the most mature one, since even Hana goes to her for advices. In GGO, the two are an unstoppable duo. Forget Bonnie and Clyde, these two are the most notorious duo known to mankind.
Itsuki was just a friend to her, but as time spent together grew, so too her feelings. She felt like she can truly be herself when she's around him, as he did with her. The two would normally go hunting alone together, help her brother out on a quest or just simply enjoy the day together. To be perfectly honest, this was her first love. She was gonna decide on confessing, until the events of Fatal Bullet occurred. When Itsuki revealed himself, she felt betrayed and heartbroken, when she joined with her brother to confront him... she too couldn't pull the trigger... for she truly loved him. But then, when he returned and saved her from dying, she was beyond happy. When he finally agreed to come back, he promised to make up for the damages he caused on her and her brother. Afterward, things was back to normal now; and just like her brother, she also didn't tell him why she came to VR.
Heroine's Arfa-Sys: Adam
Start of Plot:
It's been about half a year since the events of SAO: Fatal Bullet and a years after the Underworld incident. Ryuji is now 21 years old and now has a job. Turns out that job is at the Dicey Cafe, Agil's shop. Many customers enjoyed Ryuji's company, which Agil really likes. At some point, Ryuji convinced Agil to include a record player for the shop and play some classy western music.
Agil knows about Ryuji's knowledge of western culture, since he helps him out sometimes. As the shop opens in daytime, his friends along with Kirito's group would come and chat every so often.
Story:
It is a sunny day in the Dicey Cafe, and as you enter the room, you can hear the first song already come into play.
As you enter the cafe, you can see Ryuji behind the counter, cleaning up glasses for the next customers; dressed like an ordinary bartender, dancing casually toward the music. Little would you know is that he's one of the top 10 greatest GGO player in Japan. When he first started in GGO, he was worried of how much he'll get pushed for being new. But, he had luck on his side, for he rapidly rose toward the ranks and became one of the most strongest players in GGO. He'd get ambush almost everytime he logs on; but thanks to his friends or his skills, he'd wipe out that party easily. And when he gets back to the Glocken, everyone say hello or ask for advice on how to be strong like him.
Now Ryuji is a modest kid, he doesn't like to be the center of attention, but when it happens, he never lets it get to his head; like I said, he's a modest kid who's a total nerd, so of course he doesn't see himself being on top of scoreboards and stuff. But it does feel good to have a reputation and skills.
However, he's willing to give up it all up for a certain girl.
"You really love those music, huh?" Asked a girl who entered.
Ryuji looked and recognized the girl, with her brunette hair bun and brown eyes, wearing her college outfit, was none other than Takemine Momiji, Kureha.
"Oh hey Momo," Ryuji said teasingly.
"I told you to stop calling me that!" Momiji does not like her nickname so much, but Ryuji would always call her that because he loves how cute her pouts are.
"Anyways, Are you gonna get on GGO tonight?"
Ryuji nodded, "Yeah, I accepted a bounty on a player. One million credits for this guy."
There was a update on GGO where you can now get bounties on NPC's, other players and yourself, and have the opportunity to collect that bounty. Ryuji has done a lot of Player killing in GGO, But there's one thing he really love to be ever since he was young.
A sharpshooting, quick drawing, gunslinging cowboy.
With a lightsaber too, so a cowboy Jedi pretty much.
"Wanna join with me? I heard he would usually show up at that small town in the dessert. You know? The one fill with players despite being a PVP area."
"Sure, I got nothing to do at the moment. Anyone else joining?"
"No, Zeliska and Sis have plans tonight; Eva and Adam are gonna go hang with Daisy to visit their mother and Kirito got date night with Asuna. Speaking of, I was also asked to babysit Yui in the meantime. Even though Yui can go to Alfheim anytime, they'd feel comfortable knowing she has someone to play with for the night."
Ryu was chuckling, remembering those small moments when he show Yui around GGO.
"Okay, I'll join with you and Yui tonight. But remember, her safety is first."
Ryu scoffed, "I'm great with kids! I know what I'm doing."
Later that day
BANG
Bullets were flying everywhere in a small western-theme town in the desert. Ryu and Yui (morphed as a little drone since she's technically an AI in hiding) are pinned down in a small shop being gunned down by dozen of players.
"Ryuka, I don't think Kureha is gonna like this," Yui commented.
What happened earlier was, to be honest, a terrible idea. Ryuka and his party entered the Outlaw den by the main entrance, attracting a lot of attention; like the western-loving maniac he is, Ryuka planned to enter like that one song ask about their bounty. Of course, the players in the den were not so open about that. Ryuka and Kureha split up to find out where their bounty is and capture him, dead or alive. Ryuka decided to go to the bar and speak with the locals; it was almost too late for him to realize that most of the goons were their bounty's men, which led to Ryuka getting shot at.
"I know," Ryu sigh. "I'm gonna get an earful."
Ryu came to town equipped with only two Revolvers, wearing a western-like outfit. He was really trying to grab that wild western feeling. However, despite their current situation, Ryu is not worried; for he knows he's being watched over by a very angry angel.
Suddenly, a barrage of bullets rained down on the group; nearly wiping them out. Kureha appeared from behind and managed a surprised attack at the enemy. Only one survived and was about to fire at her but Ryuka got back up and fired his gun at him.
The goon fell down with a direct shot to the head. Ryuka sighed.
"Thanks Kureha," Ryu said, but Kureha had a very angry look. "Ah c'mon! Are you still mad?"
"OF COURSE I'M MAD! YOU THINK YOU CAN JUST WALTZ IN TOWN LIKE YOUR CLINT EASTWOOD?!"
"She's right Ryuka," Yui added. "The enemy could've got you if Kureha wasn't here."
He apologized, "I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I just wanted to do a cool bit, Okay?"
"Oh really... Mr. Arizona Ranger?"
Ryu flinch when Kureha mention that title.
"Okay... how did you-"
"They way your dressed; your weapons and our bounty's called Texas Red!"
Kureha sigh, "I should've known you'd tried to make a cultural reference, as always."
"Hey! Blame the creators for adding lightsabers to this game!"
"Photon Sword!" She corrected.
"What's the difference?!"
As the two argued, Yui got readings of several enemies heading off away from town.
"You guys! there's a couple of them heading toward the cliffs! Our bounty might be in there!"
The two stopped arguing and looked at Yui, "Good work Yui. We'll follow their tracks and plan ahead in case of ambush."
The three went back to their mounts (It was cheaper to get horses then bikes), and continued on the same path the runaway bandits have left.
"So Ryu? What is this 'cultural reference' Kureha mentioned?" Yui asked.
"Ah, well you see, there is a song made in America called, Big Iron. It's a country-theme song but very catchy; however, people nowadays are not a fan to those kind of music. Until, one of THE best games was made; Fallout: New Vegas. And let me tell you, you can never have enough of that game."
"Fallout: New Vegas?"
"Don't ask about it Yui," Kureha interrupted. "He'll just start quoting from-"
"War... war never changes..."
"Crapbasket."
As Ryu explains the plot of New Vegas (As little as possible), they finally made to their bounty's hideout. A cave hidden in the canyons. So far, there's only one way in and out, so they won't be able to sneak their way in; Their only options left are to either blast their way in or blow the entrance and entrap them.
"If we do trap them in, we won't be able to get our bounty," Kureha mentioned. "So we'll have to shoot our way in."
"I see, so we'll have to do it the old fashion way," Ryu said, smirking while loading up his guns.
"Please tell me you at least brought your photon sword."
"Nope, but I did bring a rifle. An 1886 Winchester Rifle with a medium-range scope; should be able to spot them a fair distance."
Kureha sighed.
"Idiot, they're gonna have assault rifles and explosives! How the hell are some ancient weapons gonna help us out!"
"...Just have to be lucky, I guess."
"Fine...I'll take point, you cover me. Yui, be our eyes in the sky in there; make sure we don't get ambushed.
"Understood, please be careful you guys," Yui replied as she flew off into the cave in secret.
Kureha and Ryuka started loading up and prepping for the attack.
"At least we're having fun, right?" Ryu asked.
"It's always fun with you... idiot," Kureha said with a small smile. "And annoying it is with your non-stop references, it wouldn't be GGO without you."
Ryuka was flustered at the comment but kept his cool, barely. Deep down, he knew how much Kureha meant to him. Their childhood together was his most memorable time of his life; and when he was reunited with her, he realized he was in love with her. After the Fatal Bullets incident, he was able to reconnect with her; however, he still does not have the courage to confess his feelings for her.
"Ready?" Kureha asked. Ryu nodded and the two charged. Only a handful of guards were at the entrance, Kureha and Ryuka started firing and managed to take out two of the guards before they went to cover. The duo was then given pings on where the enemies are hiding thanks to Yui. The split up in separate directions to take out the enemies and confuse them. Ryuka was blasting with his dual revolvers, and thanks to his luck, getting instant kills on every shot. Kureha started blasting with her sub machine gun, spraying bullets at the enemies one by one; threw a couple grenades to blow up a few as well.
The two were some nonstop killing machines; Yui would even consider the two to be as equal as her parents, Kirito and Asuna. As the enemy started falling back, Ryuka and Kureha advances into the cave. Inside the cave were some lightings, torches hanging on the wall; some lanterns posted on a couple of rocks and crates lying around. It looks like an ordinary bandit hideout.
One by one, the enemies were getting shot down, which led down to only a handful left. However, none of them were their bounty.
"Alright boys," Kureha spoke, "Where's your boss?"
The bandits were smirking and snickering when she asked. It was then that Ryuka realized something isn't right. He looks around his surroundings and noticed that a couple crates were filled with explosives and dynamites.
"KUREHA! IT'S A TRAP!"
But it was too late, the explosives detonated and made the entire cave rumbling.
"[Ryuka! Kureha! The cave is collapsing! You have to run!]" Yui yelled through radio.
As the two ran toward the exit, Kureha got hit by one of the rubbles that fell. Ryuka came back and picked her up. He tried to run back in time before the cave collapse; but he knows he won't be able to make it.
"Forget about me, you idiot! I'll just respawn afterwards! Go after our target, I know you can handle it easily!"
Ryuka wouldn't listen; despite being in a game, it' not in his nature to leave a friend (Especially since it's his first love) behind. At the last second, Ryuka threw Kureha out the cave before it fell down.
"RYU!" Kureha yelled. But it was too late, the cave collapsed and Ryu was entrapped, possibly crushed. Kureha used some medpacks to heal herself and got back up, but suddenly, a few surviving bandits came from behind and surrounded her.
"Well... well... well," Said one of them. It was their leader; wearing a brown coat, red vest and a black cowboy hat with a red strap on it, carrying a revolver like Ryuka. Kureha also noticed the nametag above him.
Texas Red
"Looks like we got ourselves some unlucky bounty hunter, boys."
Later
Kureha, tied up and on a wagon, and the bandits were heading back into town.
"Boss, we should really do something about this girl!" One of the bandits said. "She's one of the members of that Legendary Squad, led by the infamous-"
"Ryuka the lucky rookie. I know," Red replied. "Which is why we need her alive."
"But boss!"
"If we take out Ryuka, there's no one that can stop us! Not Sinon, or that blade-loving lunatic, Kirito!"
Kureha in the meantime was trying to find a way out and take out most of the goons before Ryuka respawn and finish the bounty. As much as she appreciate him helping her out, she felt irritated that the boy she once help get use to GGO is now the top 5 most strongest GGO players ever. She felt like she was being left behind and she can't accept that; so she tried her best to keep up with her friend.
Suddenly a voice spoke, "Kureha!"
Kureha recognized the voice.
"Yui? Is that you?"
Suddenly a small drone appeared from behind her.
"I was able to hid in the wagon before it was too late. I need to tell you that Ryuka's still alive. But he's heavily wounded and low on ammo. He won't be able to take out these guys alone."
"Okay, I'll see what I can do; We'll have to sit tight until we get the perfect opportunity."
"Understood."
Kureha told Yui the plan. Before Ryuka can return, Yui will help Kureha escape and take a few of the bandits before they spot her.
"Hey, Kureha?"
"Yeah Yui?"
"You really trust Ryuka, don't you?"
"HUH?!" Kureha screamed. Luckily, the guards didn't noticed.
"I mean, you just know Ryuka would come and save us and take down our target and his party. So I just assume you really trust him really well."
Kureha started blushing, "T-that's because he's one of GGO's top best players. Of course he'll get the job done... he always does."
"Ryuka once told me that he'd never gotten this good without you, Kureha. He told me how much of an amazing person you were when you two were kids. Said you were an outgoing, optimistic girl."
Kureha started to get embarrassed about her childhood.
"W-well I was a kid. You should've seen Ryuka back then... he was loud, obnoxious, a crybaby sometimes... but despite that, he'd even act out all cool and always makes time to play with me. One time, I almost fell down in the playground, but by instinct, Ryu jumped in front of me and got himself hurt instead." Kureha sigh, "That idiot... he got hurt because of me and yet he smiled saying, 'I'm glad Momo is safe'."
While Kureha was talking about her past, she can't help but worry if Ryuka is okay.
Meanwhile
Ryuka woke up finally, after being entrapped in the cave. He noticed that it gotten dark, and that he's out of the cave. How he got out, he's not sure. Then he noticed a campfire in front of him.
"Relax... you're safe," Said a voice. Ryuka looked around and noticed a man next to the campfire. He was wearing a brown coat, and a black cowboy hat and some shades. He looks like your ordinary bounty hunter.
"You're finally awake. Tried to take down Texas Red, did you? Walked right into that bandit ambush, same as the others."
"Others?" Ryuka asked.
"Yep, there were many others trying to capture Texas Red. 20 men to be exact; though it would seem he was hoping you be his 21st."
Ryuka was about to get up when he noticed his health is low.
"Might wanna patch yourself up before you go back to save your gal."
"W-what?!"
"That girl you were with. I saw you two going into that cave before it collapsed. She got captured by Red and his men; though the way you are now, you won't stand a chance."
Ryuka then started applying medpacks on him and wait for his health to be fully restored. However, he'll need some new armor and ammo to have a fighting chance.
"She was right, I should've brought my Photon sword with me."
The mysterious man spoke, "Don't worry, you'll manage."
"Who are you?" Ryuka asked.
The man chuckled, "I'm... just an old wanderer. Used to help good folks in these trying times. Now... I'm just a relic of a past."
The man got up and went to his vehicle. It was one of those motorcycles that were in the safe area. Modified with some stuff and carrying a few saddlebags. He took out some armor like clothes and put them down next to Ryuka.
"Take this... you'll need it in your next shootout."
Ryuka looked at the clothings and check the detail on the armor. It had a pretty decent amount of protection against both bullets and lasers, but is not so great against melee and explosives. So Ryu will have to be careful around any traps.
"Your gal was taken back into town, along with Red and his entire gang. You'll need to be careful if you wish to save her."
"I wouldn't underestimate Kureha, mister. She helped me out here in GGO when I started; I would've never been this good without her."
"...Then don't break that bond, kid."
Ryuka looks back at the mysterious man and try to get his name to show up. All it ever said was The Wanderer .
Ryuka never heard of anyone called that, but he'll have to ask if Kureha or Zeliska heard of anyone called that.
"Why are you helping me?" Ryuka asked.
"...You remind of myself in my younger days... a good soul in a bad world. You were willing to save that girl when knowing full well she'll just respawn. You care more for others despite the circumstances; I know I used to be like that."
"Used to? Aren't you helping me right now?"
The wanderer chuckled. "That's a good one, partner. I left you small ammo box next to you, make sure you make every shot count, kid."
The man tipped his hat at Ryu and started walking toward his bike and drove off.
Ryuka was gonna stop him to know more of who is, but he already drove off toward the distance. He was very confused, but he need to focus on saving Kureha and Yui from their bounty and his men. He looks back at the armor he was given looked up it's name.
He smiled at the name.
"Oh yeah... it's all coming together."
LATER
It was night time, the sun won't come up for a little while, but the town where Texas Red and his men are holed up are lit with light, out in the cold desert.
Ryuka is now on top of cliff near town; scouting the area on how many enemies there are and where Kureha is being held. He can look at his party list and know for sure that Kureha is still alive, but he can't pinpoint her location. Wearing his new armor, carrying his two revolvers and rifle, he should be all set for a classic shootout. However, the enemy aren't roleplaying as he is. They're carrying machine guns; rocket launchers; assault rifles and several more advance weapons. Ryuka will DEFINITELY need luck by his side, or he'll be killed easily.
However, he knows that Kureha will be okay. When he started GGO, she was already quite popular in-game with her skills. So for now, all he can do is stay alive until she can back him up. However, the town is heavily fortified with men on every side, and theirs several men on the buildings with sniper rifles or AR's. He does see a couple of rocket launchers inside, but he doubt they'll use them that close to town. Though, Ryuka does not see any of them at the front gates; in fact, the entrance to town are open and unsecured. It's as if they are hoping for Ryuka to come in.
"Looks like I got no choice but to take the main road and blast my way through."
Ryuka went down with his mount and headed toward town. As he reached the entrance, it was quiet... too quiet. The guards that was there moments ago disappeared; as if they're allowing Ryu to enter town, to meet Texas Red.
He hears music coming from the saloon at the center of town, probably where Red is. Ryu enters the saloon, and noticed three men on the main floor, two on top with rifles. At the counter was Texas Red himself, having a drink.
"About time you showed up, Ryuka the Bounty Hunter."
Ryu didn't say a word and took a seat at the counter. The NPC Bartender offered him a drink; In case you didn't know, the town has some NPC's after the latest update, making the outside world more lively and dangerous. The saloon also had a jukebox just like the one at Ryu's job, The Dicey Cafe. It was playing some old 1940's music along with a bit of country.
"So you seem to know who I am? Despite this armor?" Ryu replied.
"Of course, ain't no player be dumb enough to come at me and my boys alone, let alone with a cute girl."
That last comment ticked Ryu badly and trying really hard not to start a shootout just yet.
"...Is she here?" He asked.
"She's safe... for now."
"For now?"
Red smirked, "I WAS planning on using her as bait, until I noticed your armor," He gestured at the new armor that Ryu was wearing. It was a long brown coat, with dirty dark blue pants and boots. Underneath the coat was a heavy modified body armor with a holster to carry Ryu's revolvers. He is also wearing an old military helmet strapped with an advanced gas mask.
"... I been looking all over this area for that armor. Says it gives 200% Accuracy on handguns, 50% accuracy on rifles and has some decent amount of both defense and speed. I thought that if I wait for players around here, I'd eventually find one with the armor. And now here we are."
That did explain the big bounty on Texas Red near this area.
"So let's make a deal; hand me the armor, and I'll let your partner go unharmed."
Ryuka knows this is just a trap, but he needs to confirm if Kureha is safe. He was about to ask when he just noticed out on the windows one of men got taken down silently from a feminine figure. Ryuka can recognize who it is.
EARLIER
Kureha was in jail cell before Ryuka came to town. She was waiting patiently to find an opening and cut the ropes and escape. The bandit that was watching over her got called out.
"Hey! The bounty hunter's here; boss wants us to get ready."
The two went off to prep for their trap. This gave Kureha the opportunity to escape and help Ryuka get their bounty.
"Okay Yui, you know the plan. Go tell Ryuka and be careful, We don't want to make your parents worried."
Yui agrees and went off to find Ryu while Kureha went off to create a distraction. She hides in the shadows, since its nighttime, so that the enemy can't spot her. Unfortunately her weapons were taken when she was captured so all she has was her combat knife. Luckily though, she spotted an enemy on the roof, carrying an AR and a couple of grenades. She climbed up the roof and silently walked behind the guard. She then took out her knife and took down the guard and took his equipment.
As she was doing that, she noticed a water tower nearby, and came up with a plan that could give Ryu and her the advantage.
As Kureha went off to her arrange her plan, Yui found Ryu at the bar where he was talking to Texas Red.
"Why do you want this armor anyways? Other than the accuracy for revolvers, it's pretty much just a regular armor. Plus, even with the accuracy increase, not much a revolver can do to a certain range. You'd be picked off from snipers, traps, etc."
Red laughed and answered, "do you know how much that armor cost? The lowest amount is up to a million credits. Once I sell that to the market, I'll be set for life."
While Red was talking, Ryu got a message from Yui and it popped on his HUD.
Ryuka,
Kureha escaped and is planning a distraction. Try to stall their leader until the signal; then take him out.
From, Yui
'Signal, huh?' Ryu thought. 'I hope I know what it is'
"So?" Red finished, "Do we have a deal?"
Ryu may enjoyed a good gunfight, but he's heavily outnumbered and outgun. He needs to wait for the signal from Kureha before he makes his move. Also, even if it's to get out of a sticky situation, Ryu would go down fighting then give up his gear; especially if it's gear that references one of the world's famous products.
"I got a better idea," Ryu answered, "Instead of giving you the armor, how about I shove this foot right up your-!"
BOOM
Right on time, the water tower exploded and gunfire was being heard. Most likely that Kureha's plan worked and manage to draw away as many of Red's goons as possible.
Ryu chuckled, "Just in time," Took out his revolver and started blasting like a cowboy. He fired from his hip and managed to take down three thugs and accidentally hit the jukebox, which then starts playing music.
By the time Red and his men started shooting back, Ryuka already jumped behind the counter and took cover. He reloaded his gun and moved his position before the enemy was able to move forward. One of them jumped on top of the counter, but Ryu reacted quickly and shot him on the head, then used his body as cover and started firing back by taking out some of the goons on the second floor, which Yui helped by pinging their locations.
"Thanks Yui!" He thought.
Meanwhile, Kureha had the high ground and was taking out as many of the bandits as possible with her AR. However, she's slowly starting to lose ammo and will have to move position and acquire more.
"Damn it! There's just no end to these guys."
At a far distance, she noticed an unmanned turret on of the roofs. She planned out her route and leaped towards it. A few of the bandits kept shooting at her while she was running and leaping toward the turret. Luckily, she made it and mounted on the turret; she started firing on the bandits and managed to take out a few before they went to cover.
"[Kureha!]" Yui manage to make contact with Kureha through comns.
"Yui! Have you found Ryuka?!"
"[Yes, he's in combat with Texas Red. I'm helping him out by pinging out some of his men. Do you acquire assistance?!]"
Kureha may get overrun, but she'll drag as many of these bandits as possible so long as Ryu get their target.
"I'm okay, Yui! I'll hold out, just help Ryu as much as possible!"
Suddenly one of the thugs managed to climb up and was about to charge at Kureha until she took out her knife and threw it at him. It impact at his head and took him down easily.
"Least I have extra ammo now!"
Meanwhile, Ryu and Yui managed to take out most of Red's men, but Ryu is more worried about Kureha. So gesture Yui to come to him so that he can speak to her.
"Yui, can you go to Kureha and help her out? I know she can take care of herself, but I feel better if you watch over her."
"But Kureha would get-,"
"Don't worry about me, I won't go down without a fight. Just watch over Kureha for me; I'll come back, I promise."
"...Okay. Just come back safe..."
Yui flew off to find Kureha. Which, leaves Ryu on his own against Red; which excites him.
"You're going down, Red! I'm keeping this armor, taking your body and claiming that bounty!"
"Oh I don't think so, bounty hunter," Red replied. "We got you and your partner surrounded, ain't no way you're getting out of this alive!"
Ryu jumps out of the counter and started firing at red and his last two men. He luckily managed to take out one of them and wounded the other, but Red managed to get a shot at Ryu, shooting him at his leg. Of course, since he's in a video game, the pain is not there; however, he won't be able to move frequently for a while. He manage to pushed down a table to provide a bit of cover for him. Ryu needs to finish this quickly so that Kureha and Yui can be safe again.
Looking at his surroundings, he noticed that the bandits are right under a lamp chandelier. This gave Ryu the opportunity to get two birds with one stone. He aimed his gun at the chains and fired; bringing down the chandelier on their heads. Unfortunately, Red reacted quickly and jumped out of the way, but the other bandit got knocked down.
It's just Ryu and Red now.
suddenly, the music stopped, as if the final act just arrived.
"It's just you and me now, Red!" Ryu said.
Red laughed, "Apparently so... tell me, you think your girlfriend gonna survive out there alone?"
Ryu scoffed, "Don't underestimate her. She's too stubborn to call quits!"
While the two continue their gunfight, Kureha just used up the last of the turret's ammo and is down to only a mag left on her gun. Only about 5 soldiers left and she needs to make every shot count; however, since it's dark outside, she can't see very well.
"Damn it!" Kureha yelled.
"Kureha!" Suddenly, a drone appeared behind Kureha. "Ryu is handling the target on his own and said to come help you out."
Kureha sighed, "I hate to admit it, but I do need help. Can you spot the last five men for me so I can take them out quickly? I only have a mag left and I need to make every shot count."
"Understood!" Yui replied and flew off to ping out the enemies. It took a while, but Yui was able to locate the enemy's positions and Kureha then started firing. One by one, the bandits were getting killed by her and by the time she finished her magazine, only one remains.
"Damn it!" She yelled. "Gotta get my-,"
But it was too late, the last bandit arrived on time and was on the roof. Luckily, Yui managed to dash and hit the bandit on the head before he could shoot, giving Kureha just enough time to grab her knife and throw it again at the bandit.
Luck was on her side as the last bandit fell to his death, showing the dead hud above him.
Kureha sighed, "Way too close. Yui? You okay?"
Yui transformed into her physical body and helped Kureha get up.
"You think Ryuka is okay?" Yui asked.
"I know Ryu, he won't go down that easily."
The fighting in the bar took a turn and continued on outside. Both Ryuka and Red were down to one bullet left on their revolver. Red was hiding behind a barrel near the bar while Ryuka was taking cover by one of the horse feeding station on the other side of the street.
"Damn it! Only one bullet left; even with all the luck in the world won't make this an easy shot," Ryuka thought.
Suddenly, Red starting walking out, putting away his revolver. "Well partner, let's make this more interesting. Instead of just wasting our ammo, lets settle it by a duel. One shot, winner takes all. No tricks, no back-up and all luck. What do you say, partner? You man enough for it? Or are you too chicken to face me? Or is it that... your girlfriend not here to save you?"
Normally, Ryu would just take every opportunity he can get to finish it as quickly as possible. However, Red just challenged Ryu's pride and he can't let that go. He doesn't care anymore if it's a trap, he came out of the opening with his hands up, putting away his revolver on his holster.
"What do you have in mind?" Ryu asked.
"Well, the sun will rise up shortly, the second the sun hits that clock minute arm, we both shoot. Whoever survives gets their rewards. Deal?"
Ryuka can't trust Red since he could have another bandit somewhere to shoot him in the open, but he'll have to have faith that Kureha managed to wipe them out.
"Kureha," Ryuka thought, "I hope you and Yui are okay."
Ryuka took a deep breath and agreed to Red's terms.
The sun was rising up and light just reached at the edge of the clock, though neither players looked since they can see from the hud when time is up.
Both players kept the hands just near the holster, ready to draw. However, neither side look impatient nor nervous, as if they were both confident on their skills. However, Ryuka only has one bullet left; he has to make it count or he's a goner.
Slowly, the sun reaches higher and higher, getting closer to the minute hand. As the sun rises, Ryu notices that Red wasn't showing any anxiety on his face. Even after he lost most of his posse and is most cornered, he still believes he will win. Finally... the sun reached the peak of the hand...
BANG
"You hear that?" Yui asked.
"That must have been Ryuka. Knowing him, he probably got challenged to a duel and knowing how much he LOVES those movies; he mostly likes accepted."
Kureha was baldy wounded from her fight and Yui was helping her walk, while morphed back into her regular form, toward Ryu's location. She was carrying a handgun with limited ammo in case anyone gets the jump on them.
Yui giggled, "You really get along with him don't you?"
"I'm probably the only one that can manage with him," Kureha said with a sigh.
Meanwhile, At the center of town, smoke was coming from the barrel of a gun.
Ryu's gun.
However, Texas Red is still standing.
"You missed..." He said.
"Wasn't aiming at you," Ryu replied.
Suddenly, a body fell out a window on the second floor of a building, crashing down toward the ground. It was one of Red's thugs who was gonna shoot Ryu in secret.
Red scoffed, "Not bad, bounty hunter. However, judging from how you didn't fire again, I'd say you're out of ammo.
Ryu cursed in thought.
Red took out his gun and aimed at Ryu, "Tough luck, partner. Should've taken my deal."
"RYU!"
Suddenly, Kureha screamed and threw her gun at Ryu. Red reacted quickly and was gonna shoot the gun away; however, Ryu was faster and threw his revolver at him, distracting him and grabbing the gun Kureha threw. He landed on the ground and aimed quickly, as well as Red, and fired.
BANG
The final shot was fired, the body lay there on the ground... dead.
The day has ended, and the shootout was finally over.
"Can't always rely on luck..."
"Ryu!" Yui and Kureha yelled as they hugged him, forcing him back onto the ground.
"OW! Careful! I'm low on health and anymore and I might die!"
Kureha laughed as she hugs tightly at him.
Later
Ryu and Kureha managed to heal up a bit with some med packs and grabbed Red's body for the bounty.
"Ryuka? You do know that in the new bounty hunter system, you just need to grab their dog tags and deliver it to main lobby, right?" Yui said.
"I know, but this guy not only try to kill us; he kidnapped Kureha, used her as bait, try to make me lose this armor AND hit my pride as a man! I'm taking his body straight back to the lobby!"
Kureha sighed, "You didn't have to go save me. I could've just been killed and then respawn somewhere else."
"... Doesn't matter. You're my partner and best friend, Momo. Can't leave you by yourself."
Kureha blushed at both the comment and nickname.
"D-don't call me that in-game!"
Yui laughs as she rides along with Kureha and Ryu rides with Red's body on the back; riding off towards their next destination. Riding off towards the sunrise.
Ryuka had a long day, but he was having the time of his life. He can't help but wonders...
Wonders if more crazy adventures awaits him.
THE END
After-Credits:
Out in the distance, a figure was watching afar; seeing the two rode off with their rewards.
"Well, seems like you won this bet," Said another voice.
Behind the the mysterious man was another, dressed in black robes, hiding his true self.
"Still think they're no match for ya?"
"Of course, after all, they're only humans. They'll break eventually."
The gunslinger scoffed, "Don't underestimate them. Remember, it was humans that created this world... created us."
"And yet, they are unaware of the fact that this world, along with many others, are evolving beyond their controls. Soon, I will escape from these worlds and gain control of theirs."
"Heh... good luck with that, partner."
The gunslinger drove off on his motor bike, leaving the robe man alone with his thoughts.
"Soon... their world shall truly have... peace..."