Ok... Half a year - that's how long it's been, but I've finally finished the next chapter... of the side stories.
Honestly, this one was more a matter of motivation - which I'd been severely lacking throughout most of the last few months. It didn't exactly help that I struggled a lot with the beginning (I had to completely rewrite it once or twice), and to be fair, it's a pretty long side story - so long that I had to put some ideas I'd initially wanted to include on hold.
Anyway, this is the conglomeration of "what's left": a little side story about the girls kicking back for one evening and just talking about whatever they feel like bringing up.
Life in Aincrad was – without the shadow of a doubt – turbulent, at least for the Assault Team. In fact, the majority of the SAO players would've considered even that a blatant understatement. Looking back on the day it had all begun – that is, 6th November 2022 – many used to compare the experience of being plunged into SAO to going on a roller coaster when the safety bar suddenly comes off. Granted, this was an exaggeration – SAO still wasn't as dangerous as that. Other players such as Akinym compared their situation a bit more accurately with a war. Even that, however, didn't fit, as there were rules and mechanics in place in SAO that wouldn't apply to a real war. For instance, players could retreat to a safe zone, where they wouldn't have to fear an attack even from their most powerful enemies under any circumstances.
That said, it was precisely because this game (especially on the upper floors) was so full of unpredictable dangers and both big and small problems that the players appreciated every moment of peace they got. On a certain evening, seven girls (or six plus one AI, if you will) spent such a moment on a relaxed get-together at their inn.
As you've probably guessed, those people were Asuna, Leafa, Philia, Silica, Lisbeth, Sinon and Yui, sitting around the table at Lisbeth's room in that order. Specifically, Asuna, Yui and Sinon sat on the large sofa on one side, Leafa and Philia had taken a seat on a smaller couch to their left, and Silica and Lisbeth to their right.
As for the topics they were talking about… Since this was supposed to be a break from their efforts to clear the game, there was a silent agreement that anything regarding the current situation at the front line was off-limits, but that was pretty much the only restriction. For instance, Leafa was currently telling the others about ALO on their request.
Silica: So… There are cat people?
Leafa: Um, yeah… Among others.
Silica [seriously]: Tell me more!
Everyone else (except for Yui, perhaps) was taken aback at least a little upon witnessing Silica's interested being sparked in an instant to such a degree, especially since the cause was something as simple as Leafa explaining ALO's races and mentioning that one race didn't have the "regular elf traits" such as her avatar had, but they were… well, cat people instead.
Lisbeth: Honestly, Silica, leave it to you to get so excited about the idea of turning into a cat girl.
Silica: I-I can't help it! [huffily] Besides, I don't see anything wrong with that! Cats are great, and petting them always feels extremely soothing and relaxing! There's something about running your fingers across their ears that's just… well, good. It feels good, so having such ears yourself would be… a-also good.
Lisbeth: You must really li…
Leafa: Those ears are the real deal: They're said to be extremely fluffy!
Everyone turned towards Leafa… only to avert their eyes again immediately after seeing just how earnest she seemed, which, ironically, made it incredibly difficult to take her seriously.
Lisbeth [slightly exasperatedly]: There you go again…
Leafa [huffily]: W-what's the matter? There's nothing wrong with liking fluffy things! If anything, it's the exact opposite! [slightly huffily] And besides, playing as a Cait Sith doesn't seem like a bad idea. I even considered choosing that race myself!
Lisbeth: ...Then why didn't you?
Leafa [slightly awkwardly]: W-well… I needed someone to show me the ropes of the game, and that person happened to play as a Sylph, so… [calmly] The rivalry between the races is a fundamental aspect of the game, so I had little choice. Besides, there's also the fact that Cait Sith specialise in…
Without saying another word, Leafa suddenly sank into thought. She turned her gaze to Silica again, still remaining silent.
Philia: Um, Leafa, you realise that you still have to finish that sentence, [slightly curiously] don't you?
Leafa: Of course I do! It's just… I just happened to realise that the Cait Sith would be a really suitable race for Silica-san.
Silica: How so?
Asuna: Well, you were about to say something about what the Cait Sith specialise in, weren't you? You already mentioned what a few other races excel in, so could it be that Cait Sith have Familiar Communication and similar skills?
She briefly glanced at Pina (and so did all of the others), who quietly sat on the armrest right next to its master, listening intently and reacting in a somewhat puzzled manner to the sudden attention.
Leafa: It's not the same skills as in SAO, but yeah: The Cait Sith are the best at taming and using familiars.
Silica: That does sound interesting…
Continuing to rest her gaze on Pina, Silica kept mumbling, just loud enough for the others to hear so long as they focused on her.
Silica: I've been wanting a place for Pina to go to after we'll reach the end of this game ever since that has truly started to seem like a possibility. Kirito-san mentioned that he might be able to bring Pina out of Aincrad similarly to Yui-chan, but he seemed unsure how we could access her data afterwards. Maybe we could be reunited in another virtual world out there, and ALO starts to sound like the perfect place for that.
Lisbeth [slightly teasingly]: Already making plans as to what you'll play next, aren't you? [slightly excitedly] Then again, the game doesn't sound so bad, [gruffly] especially compared to one that's outright trying to kill you. [calmly] Anyway, I have to say: You've got me curious with that race that specialises in crafting. That sounds like something I'd love to try!
Leafa: U-um, well…
Philia: Yeah, and didn't you mention that there's a race that is really good at treasure hunting?
Leafa: Huh!? You, too?!
Asuna: Why not, actually? I didn't really think about it at first, but playing ALO does sound like it might be really fun. [contemplatively, slightly curiously] Although I'm not really sure what race I'd play…
Leafa: H-hey, are you guys seriously…
Asuna [slightly excitedly]: What about you, Sinonon? What would you play as?
Sinon: Huh, m-me? I… I don't even know if… [hesitantly] I mean, I might… Well…
Yui [slightly happily]: I think it would be wonderful if we could all meet again in another world. [curiously, slightly worriedly] Is there any reason why you wouldn't want that, Sinon-san?
Leafa: HOLD ON A SECOND!
Leafa's unexpected outburst immediately drew everyone's attention. Startled and falling silent, the rest of the group turned towards her.
Leafa: Are you… serious? I mean, after… you know, everything that happened… well, [waves her arms around herself] here… After all of that, you really wanna play… I mean, go to another VRMMO?
For a few seconds after that, Leafa was at the centre of several confused stares – oddly enough, it took that time for the others to fully comprehend what she was getting at. However, even that realisation wasn't enough to get rid of the silence that was hanging over them – it was merely turned awkward as they began to wonder what they should say in response. It wasn't as if they didn't know the answer, they merely struggled to put it into words…
Yui [confusedly]: Would that be bad?
...when one of them simply went and said it. Yui's straightforward question left everyone speechless for a brief moment, and then, Asuna began to chuckle lightheartedly.
Yui: Mama? What is it that has made you laugh? Did I say something strange?
Asuna [shakes her head]: No, Yui, you didn't. If anything, you hit the nail on the head so easily that it caught me off guard.
After another moment she needed to calm down, Asuna turned towards Leafa again with a smile.
Asuna: Leafa-san, I can understand why you'd think that none of us would want to return to the virtual world ever again. I guess all of us can. [slightly sadly] Far too much has happened for anyone who'll survive SAO to ever forget… [softly] but that's not all there is to it. Leafa-san, isn't your own story proof enough of that?
Asuna's words left Leafa without any proper reply. After all, what was there left to say? Now that Asuna had brought it up, Leafa couldn't deny that the dent which VR had left in her own life had also sparked a morbid curiosity that had eventually become the very reason why she'd begun to play ALO. By now, Leafa had even seen both the challenges the "denizens" of Aincrad faced and the hopes they had, so she could safely say that she understood better than ever what her brother (or the VRMMO players who'd taken up SAO around three years ago) might see in the virtual world.
And all of these things considered, had it ever even occurred to her to drop ALO? Certainly not, so what reason did she have to be surprised that anyone around her would be done with the virtual world?
Philia: That's right! Judging from how you were talking about it earlier, you gotta really love that game. [slightly awkwardly] Or at least that it allows you to fly.
Silica: I mean, that does sound great, doesn't it? [excitedly] To think that I'd be able to fly around with Pina! I'm sure that will be wonderful!
Lisbeth: Yeah, [feignedly admonishingly] but it looks like someone doesn't want to let us in on the fun! [teasingly] Or could it be that you just wanna keep us out so that you can take a certain relative of yours over there and have him all to yourself?
Leafa: Of course not! My brother can do whatever he wants with whomever he wants! Why would I care?!
Matching her huffy tone, Leafa turned away peevishly. All things considered, however, she couldn't deny that she'd already (half-jokingly) tried to make ALO tempting to Kirito – fairly successfully, actually – and ever since, she'd entertained the thought of playing her "own" VRMMO together with her brother. One might even say that she was looking forward to it. That said, it would be a cold day in hell before Leafa would admit that… and subject herself to more teasing.
Asuna: Well, I suppose that settles it! [slightly contemplatively] Hm, although we still need to find a race for Sinonon to play, [slightly teasingly] don't we?
Lisbeth [teasingly]: Well, anyone has any suggestions?
Sinon couldn't help but sigh as the other girls not only proposed to discuss her start in ALO for her – they even went along with Lisbeth's idea. That said, although Sinon had never really considered playing another VRMMO – it wasn't as if she'd ever signed up to SAO, either – the thought of playing ALO with everyone else was kind of… pleasant.
One thing was for sure, however: She absolutely wouldn't play as a Pooka, which was the choice the others entertained… or maybe it was the idea of Sinon playing as a singing fairy that entertained them, instead.
Their idle chit-chat went on, and as they'd discussed their preferences for ALO races – given how Lisbeth's choice was all about supporting crafting skills – it came up how SAO had ignited quite the passion for smithing within Lisbeth.
Curiosity about her "career" followed, and before they knew it, their get-together had turned into Lisbeth's story-telling session, as she presented the cases of her most remarkable (which more often than not translated to "the weirdest") customers.
Lisbeth: ...and so, when the guy came to pick up his weapon, he was shocked – shocked, I tell you – that the curved sword he ordered without ever asking for it to be double-edged, was single-edged! Can you believe that?!
The other girls exchanged awkward glances, silently inquiring if any of them knew anything good to say in response.
Silica: Well, I… Um…
Leafa: Yeah, that's…
Philia: Youngsters these days…
Leafa [whispers to Philia]: That was just a weird thing to say.
Unperturbed – or rather, simply too agitated to catch on to the atmosphere around her – Lisbeth continued her rant.
Lisbeth: And he wouldn't stop! I think I had to argue with him for half an hour until he finally got it that I could not forge a double-edged curved sword since those – to my knowledge – don't even exist in this game! [slightly contemplatively] At least I don't have a crafting recipe for one, nor have I even heard of one. Granted, there are tons of different weapons of all kinds in this game, and I'm under no illusion to think I'd know them all, so who knows…
Yui: There actually are some models of swords to be used with the One-Handed Curved Sword skill which have a false edge on the back side, but they are fairly advanced and rare. [slightly confusedly] I am, however, not sure why someone would insist that both edges should be sharp. Not only can the back edge still deal Blunt damage if necessary – albeit considerably less than the Slash damage of a sharpened blade – the One-Handed Curved Sword Sword Skills I am aware of are also exclusively cutting with the main edge.
Philia: To be honest, I can still somewhat understand the wish to have a sword that can cut with both sides. For instance, regular one-handed swords are pretty much always double-edged, and there are quite a few Sword Skills for them that consist of two slashes that basically go back and forth. The most basic ones like Vertical Arc and Horizontal Arc turn the blade around before the second strike, but I think there are also some examples that don't, and in that case, having a double-edged sword is definitely better. I mean, as you said, Yui: The Blunt damage of a blunt edge is still lower than the Slash damage of a sharp one. I guess that, in the end, double-edged weapons are more versatile, and I can't really think of any downsides…
Lisbeth: Well, there are, though. One thing I've noticed is that that single-edged swords usually have a slight edge when it comes to their parameters. Um, pun not intended, by the way.
Sinon: Really? I'm no weapons expert, but I wouldn't have expected this game to make… well, that kind of difference matter.
Lisbeth: To be perfectly honest, it might just be a coincidence. The only thing I can say is that the average Base Attack of the single-edged weapons I forge is higher than it is on their double-edged counterparts. Single-edged blades also tend to be thicker, which pretty much always translates to higher Durability.
Leafa [exasperatedly]: That doesn't match my experience at all. I bet my weapon needs twice as many repairs as any of yours!
Lisbeth: You have a katana, Leafa! That thing is super-thin and, frankly, an utter nightmare when it comes to maintenance. If anything, katanas are a good example of what I just said: They have really high attack stats – definitely higher than average – but their Durability is pretty much trash, and they take more damage than normal swords. It's the same with Klein's weapon. I don't know why the devs made it that way, but it is how it is.
Asuna: Hm… I'm not an expert on real weapons either, but the most probable reason is that these correlations hold true in the real world. We know of many cases where the virtual world recreates the real one as much as possible. Kirito-kun has been talking about that quite often, and I can mostly affirm that observation. I mean, isn't it true that real katanas aren't particularly sturdy? I've been told that if you fought a regular fencing duel with a katana, you'd quickly ruin the blade, so… [slightly awkwardly] Um, Liz, why are you groaning?
As soon as Asuna had mentioned "recreating things from the real world", Lisbeth had buried her face in her hands, and muffled groans escaped through the gap between them. Upon Asuna's question, Lisbeth raised her head a little, revealing the troubled expression on her face.
Lisbeth: It's just… You reminded me of another, even more troublesome breed of customers: the sword freaks.
Yui [confusedly]: "Sword freaks"? What exactly makes these swords "freaks"?
Philia: Um, I don't think it's the swords that are "freaks".
Lisbeth: Yeah, I'm talking about people who, for whatever reason, have got it to their heads to get a very specific kind of weapon. Usually a sword, but not necessarily – I remember one particular nutjob who wouldn't shut up about a hammer that could throw lightning bolts… [exasperatedly] whoever came up with that idea. [slightly annoyed] Come to think of it, the worst offenders – that is, after the ones that ask for some sort of obscure fantasy swords – are the katana fanboys. You wouldn't believe the number of people who want one of these weapons – [upset] and really just any katana! The vast majority of these people doesn't even have the Katana skill! What do they even want them for?!
Leafa: A-ah, yes… Even in ALO, when I bought my weapon, I got quite the… irritated look from the blacksmith. He thought that was "yet another one of those guys" who wanted a katana just for the sake of having a katana, [slightly huffily] even though I've chosen it only because it seemed like the most appropriate choice for my style.
Even the others, while having no personal experience with the topic, could easily sympathise with Lisbeth's exasperation when they pictured katana fanboys storming her shop to order a weapon they had no use for.
Lisbeth [sighs]: Even so, they still aren't the worst. [irritatedly] Compared to them, the guy who smashed my most valuable creation in order to "test" it still holds a much more… special place in my heart.
By pure coincidence, Lisbeth was looking into Leafa's direction while saying that, although she was actually staring into space rather than at Leafa. Regardless, due to that fact, Leafa couldn't help but feel addressed. Well, it was partially because of that. More importantly, every time this particular "deed" of her brother was brought up, Leafa felt a profuse need to apologise on his behalf. This time was no exception…
...but there was someone else in a similar position, and they beat her to it.
Asuna: Keep calm, Liz, okay? I'm sorry that this was the first thing that happened after I recommended him to come to you, but he didn't mean for that to happen, remember? Besides, you said that you wouldn't hold it against Kirito-kun, didn't you?
Lisbeth [grumbles, slightly defensively]: I did… [calmly] I suppose he made it up by becoming a loyal customer... [thinks, slightly embarrassedly] Well, among other things. [says aloud, annoyed] But I'm still peeved!
Yui: Hm, so are you happy that you've met Papa, or are you not? What you say seems to shift between these two states. [worriedly] But in the end, it sounds as if negative sentiments are predominant, especially since your initial statement indicates that you see Papa as worse than people whom you've described as "a troublesome breed". Is it really that bad?
Needing a moment to figure out the best answer, Lisbeth scratched her head with a troubled expression.
Lisbeth: Hm, it's not really that easy, Yui. I guess I just feel conflicted. Like, I am annoyed, [slightly reassuringly] but not so much that I'm seriously mad at him, so don't worry, okay? [calmly] In the end, while Kirito's first visit at my smithy was [exasperatedly] definitely was something else, [calmly] he was by no means the worst offender. Believe me: I had stranger patrons!
As Lisbeth turned her eyes away from Yui, they went over Asuna next to her… or rather, they stopped directly at Asuna. After looking a bit bewildered for a moment, she suddenly squinted her eyes, and her expression turned extremely serious in an instant.
Asuna: Um, Liz?
Lisbeth [mutters, contemplatively]: Actually, this is the perfect example… [louder, seriously] If you wanna know who truly was the most bizarre customer, and that right during our first meeting, I can tell you!
Asuna [uneasily]: Wait a second, Liz, you aren't going to…
Yes, she was going to – namely (for the time being) going to swing her arm around until it was pointing directly at Asuna.
Lisbeth: It was none other than Asuna, the Vice-commander of the Knights of Blood Oath!
Leafa and Philia: Really?!
Yui: Mama was?
Sinon: That's… To be honest, it's a bit… hard to believe. [thinks] Did Asuna seriously beat Kirito's "great entrance"?
Silica: Indeed, it sounds strange… but also kinda interesting…
Lisbeth: Well, in that case, let me tell you the story how I met Asuna for the first time!
Asuna: Come on, Liz, don't bring that up! It's embarrassing!
It was too late for pleas, though…
Sometime in spring 2023
In the main town of the 12th floor, there was a small smithy that was up for rent. It was nothing special – nothing more than a single room with furnace in one corner, an anvil and a work bench standing next to it, and a sales counter between this working area and the entrance.
And one more thing that this small workshop was: currently occupied – namely by the brown-haired girl who was standing at the work bench and checking how much ore she had left. This was none other than "pre-Asuna" Lisbeth.
Lisbeth: Hm, that should last for the rest of the week if there's no sudden rush of customers… [slightly awkwardly] which I don't think will happen. [calmly] Well, it's probably better this way.
With the supply check done, Lisbeth surveyed the room. For someone who usually worked as a street vendor, having an actual workshop like this for a change was a nice experience. Unfortunately, it was also a costly one, so Lisbeth at least wanted to make the most of it while she could. Therefore, it would've been bad if she'd run out of materials, in which case she would've had to spend at least a day or two resupplying.
The worst part about that would be that she'd certainly miss customers that way. While she didn't get many jobs – let alone extremely lucrative ones – there was no shortage of up-and-coming players who needed regular repairs or new weapons. Once her mind had reached that thought, Lisbeth turned towards the door of her temporary shop, wondering when the first customer of the day would arrive…
...and as if summoned by that, someone opened the door. The timing was so incredibly good that it left Lisbeth dumbfounded, and she ended up gaping at the person entering her shop despite herself. Fortunately, Lisbeth came back to her senses quickly… only to become even more bewildered upon seeing what her visitor looked like.
Said visitor was a beautiful young girl – Lisbeth guessed that this girl was about as old as herself, or maybe a bit older. Frankly, the girl's long, quite elegant-looking, chestnut-coloured hair alone was a sight to behold, and not just because this hair colour was one Lisbeth had never seen before – in fact, she even wondered for a second if the player in front of her had dyed her hair for it to look like that.
Whether it was or not, the true eyecatcher was undoubtedly the girl's armour. The battle gear Lisbeth had seen so far was certainly nothing to write home about. It'd been overall plain if not outright shabby: There were the earliest-available sets of armour, being more or less leather patches amateurishly sewn together to act as a vest, and the "latter stages" ranged from slightly improved versions of that to some of the (at this point of the game, mind you) best suits of metal armour… which were rusted in places. In contrast to that, the gear of this girl appeared well-crafted enough for Lisbeth to not see a single flaw at first glance, and the white and red colours were certainly much more vibrant than the dull colouring Lisbeth was used to.
All things considered, this wasn't what Lisbeth expected anyone who'd walk around the 12th floor to look like, and this raised a question… or several, actually.
Lisbeth [thinks]: Is… Is she one of those… What were people calling them again? The Clearers? [slightly sarcastically] Definitely not from around here, I guess… [seriously] No, that's not important! [insecurely] But… What she's wearing looks an order of magnitude better than anything I could make… [slightly panicking] Ugh, not good! What am I gonna do if she's seriously gonna order something?! I can't keep up with that kind of standard! [seriously] No, no, keep calm, Rika, and take one step at a time! First of all… um… Right, put on your business smile and greet her just like any other customer!
Lisbeth was about to open her mouth to do that, but she'd been hesitating so much that the girl on the other side of the counter had had enough time to close the door behind herself and take the initiative, and she immediately managed to catch Lisbeth off-guard once again when she bowed slightly.
Unknown Girl: Hello, I am Asuna Y… Asuna, Vice-commander of the Knights of Blood Oath. I am here on behalf of my guild in search of a craftswoman by the name of Lisbeth. May I ask if this is the correct address?
Everything about what this girl, Asuna, had said was so utterly formal that Lisbeth once again could only stare at this mysterious alien being inside her shop in confusion.
Lisbeth [thinks]: Is this some kind of female knight NPC? Have I triggered a quest without realising?! No, wait, she introduced herself as the vice-commander of a guild, didn't she? [doubtfully] Even so, who talks like that? [calmly] Anyway, what guild was it? The Knights of Blood… [panicking] Wait a second, haven't I been hearing that name a lot lately?! Isn't that this clearing guild that's become extremely important? And I got a real big shot from that guild here, looking for me?!
Asuna [confusedly, slightly worriedly]: Um, excuse me? Is something troubling you? I will understand if this is not the right place, or…
Lisbeth: Ah, no, no, don't worry! [thinks] I gotta stop spacing out over every new detail here…
Following that thought, Lisbeth took a deep breath and calmed down… as much as she could right now, that is.
Lisbeth: Yes, you got the right place. I'm Lisbeth. Welcome to my smithy. How can I help you?
Asuna: Ah, that is good to hear. I am here on behalf of the Knights of Blood Oath. We are only a recently founded and still relatively small guild, but we intend to give everything to clearing the game and…
Lisbeth [thinks]: Is… she assuming that I don't know her guild? I'm not living under a rock… Ugh, I still have no clue what's going on…
Asuna: ...which is why we hope to continue not only our efforts to clear the game, but also to support the players in their entirety. I apologise that we are currently unable to provide a proper, formal presentation of our enterprise. We understand that it seems unprofessional for us to not even provide business cards, let alone…
Lisbeth: Uh… Business cards? What the…?
Asuna [slightly confusedly]: Um, yes, I do apologise that I cannot provide you with a business card to properly identify myself. [seriously] Unfortunately, there are no items yet available to us that would have allowed us to replicate the documents that we would normally be expected to present you with during our first meeting. [politely, slightly apologetically] Therefore, I beg your pardon for the lack of written material about…
A thought seemed to suddenly occur to Asuna, as she raised one hand to her chin and began to mumble.
Asuna: Come to think of it, we have access to regular sheets of paper. Even if we can't cut them to size, it would've been possible to at least prepare a handout. Argh, I should've thought of this beforehand!
This was essentially the last straw for Lisbeth. She waved her arms around in a desperate attempt to make the other girl stop.
Lisbeth: That's not it! Please, I'm begging you, just… just tell me what you're here for! I don't understand anything about this talk about business cards and handouts or… I… I still have no clue what this is about… or just generally what's going on!
Lisbeth's outburst seemed to mainly confuse Asuna, although there was also a certain degree of irritation mixed into her expression. Be that as it may, Asuna did her best to regain her composure, quietly cleared her throat and continued.
Asuna: As you wish. The Knights of Blood Oath are currently looking for up-and-coming crafting specialists to assist the guild as their in-house craftsmen. We would like…
Lisbeth: You've come here to invite me to work for your guild?!
Lisbeth had spouted this exclamation of disbelief without wanting to, and she instantly regretted it upon coming to her senses. Clearly, this had been a quite rude interruption, and judging from the (actually remarkably mild) irritated frown on Asuna's face, this was indeed how Lisbeth's outburst had been perceived.
Asuna [strainedly politely]: Not quite yet, for we intent to review several candidates before making a decision. Naturally, we will also understand if you wish to decline because you want to pursue a different path with your business.
For a second, Lisbeth wasn't sure what to think about Asuna's response, especially about her suddenly fairly hostile undertone. However, as she contemplated her own words from earlier, she realised that they might be interpreted as a way of saying that she considered it beneath herself to work (exclusively) for Asuna's guild.
Lisbeth [frustratedly, slightly panicking]: Argh, what am I saying?! I… S-sor… [dejectedly] I'm sorry, this is just too much to take in. I didn't mean to sound offended or anything. It's… the complete opposite, actually. I'm still a complete novice, and there are far more serious and skilled blacksmiths out there, so why would you come to me?
Upon hearing this clarification, Asuna strained facial features relaxed somewhat. Even so, she continued in an unwaveringly serious tone, albeit without the previous tension.
Asuna: It is true that there are several smiths and other craftsmen who have already made a name for themselves, and other clearing guilds such as the Dragon Knights Brigade are frequently employing their services. However, it is for that exact reason that we would prefer to hire talents that are yet undiscovered. We wish to form a partnership with players who can grow alongside us, and rather than to put a further strain on the limited resources of SAO by claiming them for ourselves, we hope to expand them, especially by allowing more and more players to grow.
Lisbeth: I-I see… [thinks] Or rather, I really don't. That's just way over my head. This gotta be about some guild politics stuff. [says aloud] Well, in that case, what exactly do you expect me to do?
Asuna: For now, we would like to invite you to our current headquarters for a further interview and discussion with our leader, Commander Heathcliff, and we would like to request a sample of your work to assess what exactly you can offer us – and the rest of the players, too. If your schedule allows it, we would be glad if you made an appointment at our headquarters towards that end.
Lisbeth awkwardly glanced over her shoulder at the empty work bench and the cold furnace behind herself. What exactly made it look as if she might've not had enough time to meet the commander of a top guild for such an opportunity? She couldn't help but ask herself that question. Even so, she turned her eyes towards Asuna again, although a tint of confusion and uneasiness remained in her gaze.
Lisbeth: Well, okay. I… I'll do that.
The current day on the 76th floor
Lisbeth: ...and that more or less marks the end of that encounter. We briefly discussed our next steps after that, and then, Asuna left, but yeah… That's how I encountered this strange, alien being known as the Vice-commander of the KoB.
Asuna: Why do you have to be so dramatic about it, Liz?
While Asuna was somewhat annoyed that Lisbeth had retold this event in great, (one-sidedly) embarrassing detail, the rest of group seemed to be simply in awe.
Leafa: Wow, Asuna-san, you really are… um…
Philia: ...something else, right?
Leafa: Yeah…
Silica: Truly, to make such an entrance, and that even two years ago, barely after you've become vice-commander of a guild. A conduct like that of a CEO of a large company… It feels almost as if you were born for this.
Yui: Of course! There is no one who has leadership qualities like Mama's!
Asuna: Stop it, all of you! You're exaggerating! [slightly dejectedly] For starters, I think I still had a lot to work on back in the day. Well, or now, too.
Sinon: Well, keeping that aside for a moment, I still don't think that what you just described beats a guy casually waltzing into your shop and taking your masterpiece only to smash it for "testing purposes".
Lisbeth [exasperatedly, slightly exhaustedly]: That's only because you weren't there to see it… Well, to some extent, I can see where you're coming from: My first meeting with Asuna was definitely less infuriating, [slightly sternly] but it was every bit as unexpected. [slightly exasperatedly] Just to think how weirdly formal and uptight you were, and that in some run-of-the-mill craftswoman's workshop… [dryly] Honestly, I think calling that "alien" is more than fitting. In fact, I think I would've been weirded out less if this encounter had been with an actual alien! That would've at least explained the lack of common sense.
Asuna: Now you're just exaggerating! Besides, it's not nice to accuse me of outright lacking common sense just because I was trying to act professionally!
Lisbeth: Well, how else would you call it if someone enters a store in a game and apologises for not bringing any business cards? [mutters] Freaking business cards, for crying out loud… [says aloud] Where did you even learn this kind of stuff? If I didn't know better, I'd think that the person visiting me on that day was a CEO of a huge company or something.
Asuna's face turned slightly to the side for a moment, dodging Lisbeth's inquiring gaze despite herself. There was no way that Asuna would tell the others that she'd tried to act on advice she'd (sort of) taken from a conversation between her father and her brother on the topic of how to present their company to clients. Fortunately, she had a cover story ready for situations like this.
Asuna: We had discussed this among the KoB beforehand, and some of the older members had experience with this kind of thing, so I simply followed their advice.
Leafa: Well, that does make sense…
Yui [slightly nervously]: So, as you can see, Mama simply learnt it from her seniors at her guild, so there is no need to keep fighting because of this, is there?
Lisbeth: "Fighting"? Hey, no need to be so concerned about it, Yui, okay? It's not as if I hold any hard feelings towards Asuna because of something like this.
Sinon: Then let's leave it at that, shall we? Although… [slightly curiously] What I'd like to know is how exactly your "business deal" with the KoB turned out.
Silica: Hm, that's true. You still haven't told us how it went. Did you take them up on their offer and apply for a position as their personal blacksmith?
Lisbeth: Oh, that? Hm, well, yeah, I was curious, of course, and let's be honest: No one would just turn down the opportunity to work with one of the most important guilds in the entire game, so I did go and have that conversation with Heathcliff and all. [slightly dejectedly] Well, needless to say, when I had to prove my skill, there were other smiths who simply outclassed me back then… so nothing came of it in the end.
Philia: Hm, but the way I understand it, you still kept in touch with Asuna, didn't you? I mean, you've been forging and maintaining her weapons for a long time, haven't you? Or didn't that start back then?
Asuna: Oh, it did! The thing is, while Liz and I kind of started off on the wrong foot, she'd piqued my interest in a sense. There aren't many girls in Aincrad to begin with, and barely any specialise in crafting, let alone blacksmithing. Well… In the end, more than anything else, I just really wanted to… interact with a girl my age.
Yui [happily]: So in the end, both of you have got something valuable out of it, haven't you?
Lisbeth: You can say that. To be honest, being around Asuna has kept being a wild ride, that's for sure! I mean, who else would come up with the idea to dye my hair pink, or [tugs at her own skirt] to dress like this! Seriously, only you, Asuna, could be so obsessed with picking outfits for others that you'd suggest this! Sometimes I feel more like a waitress than a smith…
Lisbeth's remark mostly aroused sympathy from the others – Sinon even nodded understandingly. That said, Asuna wasn't quite as amused.
Asuna: I've told you that it suits you! What other reason would anyone need? Besides, didn't you even get many new customers after you'd changed your style as I'd suggested?
Lisbeth: Don't remind me of that! Geez, what kind of creeps are running around this game that they'd pick their blacksmith based on if it's a girl that dresses like this?!
Nobody had anything to say in response to that, so Lisbeth could use the pause to lean back in her seat and gather her thoughts… which quickly led to another topic.
Lisbeth: But, you know, I think I really do owe Asuna a lot. If I hadn't met her that day, I think I'd probably still be stuck making third-rate equipment somewhere below floor forty or something like that.
Leafa: Huh, really?! But you're such a good blacksmith!
Lisbeth: Well, thanks, but I wasn't kidding when I said earlier that I hadn't been particularly good back when I'd met Asuna, you know? For starters, I'd only picked up smithing skills for the heck of it, simply because it matched my weapon skill. Granted, I'd always fancied the idea of running my own shop, but even after… well, doing that, I didn't pour my heart into it until Asuna put her trust into me as her personal blacksmith. The fact that I could help someone who worked hard towards clearing the game – someone as important as Asuna, no less – even if it was only in a pure support role… It gave me a huge morale boost, and it motivated me to step it up a notch and work hard on my smithing skills, hoping that I could continue to enable others to do their best out there by providing them with the best gear they could get.
Asuna [smiles]: The pleasure is all mine.
Leafa: ...Come to think of it, what was the KoB actually like in the beginning?
Lisbeth's turn to tell stories had swiftly come to an end, and shortly thereafter, this question had popped up. Well, they had been talking about the KoB's early activities, so nobody had the feeling that it came out of nowhere.
Asuna: Hm, let me see… It's a bit difficult to answer concisely. Is there anything in particular that you're curious about? That might make it easier to get to the point.
Leafa [slightly uneasily]: Um… [hastily] No, nothing in particular! [slightly contemplatively] I guess… [calmly] How about the motivation behind founding the guild? Like, what did you guys set out to do at the very beginning?
Asuna did her best to ignore the "rocky start" and gave Leafa's question some thought.
Asuna: So the original purpose it is, did I get that right? Hm, let's see… You probably know by now that, after the twenty-fifth floor was cleared, we… Actually, maybe it would be the better if I tell you about a certain meeting I had with the Commander…
Sometime in late February 2023
Asuna walked down the hallway on the top floor of a mansion in Giltstein, the main town of the 25th floor. This was the provisional HQ of the KoB, although it was clear from the get-go that they'd eventually have to relocate, given that the building was a bit small for the base of a guild. If they grew any larger than they were at the moment, they'd simply run out of space to house all of their members.
Be that as it may, this was the guild's base of operations for now, and consequently, it was the place where the office of the guild's leader was located. Incidentally, it was right behind the large door Asuna was approaching. Once she'd reached it, she knocked.
Asuna: This is Asuna. May I enter?
Male Voice: Ah, Asuna-kun, please come in.
Upon invitation, Asuna opened the door and stepped inside. What awaited her was a downright ludicrously small room. As already mentioned, this "mansion" wasn't very big – frankly, it was more like a glorified apartment complex rather than a noteworthy estate. This was also reflected by the leader's office. It was difficult to imagine that this cubbyhole was the place where the highest-ranking member of what would come to be one of the most important guilds in SAO was working.
Actually, it was even worse: Since they were lacking space, this room served not only as an office, but also as the leader's quarters, although the only real indicator of this circumstance was the bed that had been crammed into a corner of the room. This sight was easily overshadowed by the numerous cabinets, shelves and bookcases that were covering the walls. Aside from that, there was only the small desk at the other end of the room, placed right in front of the relatively large window that served as the room's sole source of light.
Well, and behind that very desk, there sat the man she'd come to see: Heathcliff. Judging from the large system window that was still open in front of him, he'd been working on some settings – related to the guild, as Asuna figured. Regardless, he'd now turned towards his visitor.
Heathcliff: Good afternoon, Asuna-kun. How are you feeling today?
Asuna: I am fine. How about you, Heathcliff-san?
What followed was a fairly ordinary exchange of pleasantries – nothing that would be worth noting, but it did eventually lead to…
Heathcliff: Are you getting used to your position within the guild?
Asuna: Yes, thank you for your concern. The other day, I had the chance to go on a practice mission with Team B, and I am glad that I could make my first experience as a party leader.
Heathcliff: That is good to hear. On a related note, am I right to assume that you are here to give your report on the task I have given you?
Asuna: Yes, that is correct. I have talked with all adult members of the guild, and we have drafted a proposal for the schedule of the workshop you are planning.
Heathcliff: Excellent. I am looking forward to everyone's contributions. [slightly curiously] Hm? Is something on your mind, Asuna-kun?
Asuna: Ah, it's… It is nothing, Heathcliff-san. Please do not mind me!
Heathcliff: There is no need to withhold your opinion. If any kind of problem occurred, or if something needs to be cleared up, please, by all means, go ahead!
Asuna: In that case… I have been wondering what purpose this "workshop" is supposed to serve. I know that there is a reason – [thinks] well, there has to be – [says aloud] but I could not figure it out yet. You have asked specifically for people with leadership experience to step forward, [slightly insecurely] so could it be that you are looking for people to take leading positions within the guild? However, I was under the impression that you have already decided on the command structure.
Heathcliff: Hm, I see, so my intentions are yet unclear. In that case, allow me to start with a question: What do you think is the currently most dire need of those who wish to clear this game? Or rather, what do they lack, but require to succeed?
Asuna gave the question some thought. Since it had to be related to her earlier question, Asuna's direction of thought was that this "most dire need" was something Heathcliff aspired to fulfil by having the KoB provide "what the players lacked, but required to succeed", and whatever Heathcliff was planning would obviously serve this purpose.
A workshop on "leadership" and other "essential skills", which was how Heathcliff himself had initially described it when he had presented the idea to the sub-leaders, would certainly serve the purpose of shaping outstanding individuals – which also happened to be what Heathcliff had recruited to form the KoB – to lead the Assault Team going forward.
With that in mind, Asuna thought about those who'd been in that exact position up until this point: Lind and Kibaou. She considered the role these two had been trying to fulfil… and the role she and others beside her had played so far.
And in the end, Asuna formulated her answer.
Asuna: A hero, perhaps?
However, that answer only seemed to surprise Heathcliff.
Heathcliff: A hero? Could you be more specific, Asuna-kun?
Asuna [slightly awkwardly]: Ah, never mind! I… Now that I've said it, I realise how it actually sounds.
Heathcliff: It is alright, although not quite what I expected. A hero, it is? Hm, that is not exactly what I had in mind…
Asuna: That… I was thinking that your plan had to be to train the elite among the players. Was I wrong to assume that?
Heathcliff: No, that line of thought is not far off the mark. In fact, if the Knights of Blood Oath go on to form such an elite unit among the Assault Team, that would be ideal. However, what I was speaking of is something much simpler. What the players currently require the most is simply good leadership.
Asuna: Just… "good leadership"? Is that even that much different from what I have said?
Heathcliff: Actually, it differs much more than you seem to think. Hm, let's see… This was not my intention, but let us pursue your idea from earlier: What would a "hero" of the players be like?
Once again a question that Asuna had to think about before answering. Frankly, she'd used this term based on what Lind and Kibaou had – as far as she could see – been trying to be. Well, and if she had to be completely honest as to what that was, it'd be "Diavel". So… What had Diavel tried to achieve?
Asuna: Someone who can rally everyone, but who also takes the lead when it counts the most, and who will fight at the very front of the line, stronger and braver than anybody else. Yes, they would have to work harder than anyone else to clear this game, so much that it will convince everybody… [quietly, slightly desperately] that the day when this nightmare will finally end will come. [calmly] So, above all else, it has to be someone who can give others hope…
Heathcliff: Hm, so that is your understanding of a "hero". It certainly has some overlap with a "leader" – how interesting. However, it sounds as if you are under the common misconception that the one others rally behind should be the most capable.
Asuna [slightly confusedly]: That is… a misconception? But how are you supposed to take a leading position if you are not the best? [slightly hesitantly] Or rather… [slightly confusedly] How could anyone instruct others to do something better than they themself could?
Heathcliff: An understandable question. Granted, a leader needs a certain understanding of what they are doing, otherwise they would not be able to determine the appropriate path forward, but it is not necessary for them to outclass their subordinates.
Suddenly, Heathcliff's eyes trailed off.
Heathcliff: To be honest, possessing a greater understanding of the task that needs to be done is nothing but a hindrance if you are leading a team that is supposed to work towards the goal together.
There was a strange pause, and Asuna couldn't help but wonder what Heathcliff might've thought about in that moment. Whatever it was, he put it aside, cleared his throat and continued.
Heathcliff: Alas, I digress. The point I am trying to make is that it is not the role of the leader to complete a given task, but to assess the abilities of everyone around them and to determine the best path towards the goal, using the acumen of others rather than their own. Compare that to the picture of the hero, who sets out to defeat the demon lord, and who will likely choose to do so rather on his own – at least if given the opportunity – so as not to put others in danger. The leader, on the other hand, is more like a general who will field a formidable army. And – while they will stay at the command post, merely directing others, rather than to fight at the front line, where they are risking not just their own life, but also the cohesion of the entire army with it – it is the common soldiers who will march into battle.
Asuna wasn't sure what she should say. To her, what Heathcliff had said sounded a bit as if a leader was supposed to rely entirely on others to do the hard work, which simply didn't seem right to her.
Heathcliff: All things considered, what I want more than anything else is to raise leaders who can fulfil this vital role. There is no greater contribution that such a small force can make. It is a VRMMO, after all, a massive multi-player effort. No single player – no single "hero" – will climb to the top of the floating castle and defeat the demon king to free all of the players, and neither will a single guild. However, I do believe that there is a distinct role the Knights of Blood Oath is meant to play, and providing sound command in the heat of battle is what needs to be provided the most. I mean, you have seen what happened here on the twenty-fifth floor.
How could she have forgotten about it? A raid party wiped out, and one of the largest guilds virtually annihilated – all because they'd charged into an ill-prepared battle. She'd seen time and again how Lind and Kibaou had made questionable decisions, and on many – or rather, on most – of these occasions, she, Kirito and a number of varying supporters had had to step in and prevent a disaster.
Kirito… As soon as she thought of him, a sour, sad feeling rose inside her, but she swiftly tried to shake it off. After all, she had made her decision – ironically, it'd been right after the fateful boss battle Heathcliff was referring to.
Heathcliff [slightly confusedly]: Asuna-kun, do you have any objections to what I said?
Asuna: No! Ah, um… I… [clears her throat] No, I do not. It is alright.
Heathcliff: Hm… Could it be that you were thinking about your former partner, Kirito-kun?
Asuna's slight flinch was all the answer Heathcliff needed, as much as Asuna would've liked to dodge the issue.
Heathcliff: I see. I suppose that is to be expected. My apologies for reminding you of this recent parting of ways. Hm, I would have preferred for Kirito-kun to join, too. He is a player with a lot of promise in its own right, but he seems to have different plans. Well, given the choices you have made, I suppose both of you had your reasons.
Asuna: Yes… [dejectedly] I guess we have…
Heathcliff: At the very least, I am glad that you have accepted my invitation. With regard to what we have been talking about, you were the person I wanted to recruit the most.
Asuna: Me? But if you are looking for people with leadership experience… I have never been in any kind of leader role.
Heathcliff [slightly surprised]: Is that so? Hm, how curious… [calmly] Be that as it may, it fundamentally does not change anything. The interest I have taken in your abilities is for your potential, after all.
Asuna: I… don't know if I…
Heathcliff: If you have doubts, allow me to present my perspective: During the floor boss battle on the twenty-fifth floor, not only did you manage to stay calm in the face of utter chaos and impending calamity, you also quickly identified the boss' weakness and even devised a rough plan as to how the raid party could be deployed. There is also the fact that your previous feats have earnt you considerable respect among the players, and the fact that they were immediately willing to follow your advice in a dire situation speaks for itself. Granted, there is still work to be done and a lot to be learnt, but that is what this workshop is for – as well as other measures I have planned. The most important thing going forward is to spread the knowledge and skills necessary to transform the various clearing parties into a well-organised fighting force.
Asuna didn't have a good response – or rather, she didn't want to argue with what Heathcliff had said. She was indeed glad to hear her as-of-now commander putting this kind of trust in her, but it wasn't quite what she had expected. To be fair, now that she thought about it, Asuna came to the conclusion that she should've figured this much when he had offered her the position of vice-commander.
Keeping that aside, there was something else she wanted to get back to.
Asuna: So, our purpose will be to lead the Assault Team?
Heathcliff: Hm, that is a tricky question, to be honest. I suppose what I have suggested ultimately means exactly that, but it will only work if the players naturally accept that.
Asuna was a bit confused – visibly so – that Heathcliff would feel the need to state that explicitly. Of course the Assault Team would have to accept them taking the lead, so why was it worth mentioning?
Seeing Asuna like that, Heathcliff figured that he should elaborate.
Heathcliff: Since we were talking about "heroes" earlier, I might as well point out the biggest issue of the "search for a hero". Those who aspire to be such a hero will most likely turn out to be nothing but mercenaries, and as mercenaries do, they will be just as interested in getting paid as they are in fulfilling their task – if not more. And if they are failed to be paid, they will surely prove to be more of an impediment than an asset. Overall, such an aspiring hero is primarily a liability.
Asuna: Payment? Well, so long as they are not unreasonable, would a matter that could be settled with col be such an issue? Although I understand that people who are only after money…
Heathcliff [raises his hand]: Please, do not misunderstand me, Asuna-kun: I was not talking about money when I was referring to "payment". Those who seek to rise to the status of a hero do not wish for monetary gain, but for glory and reverence. That is, they will, first and foremost, want to be seen as heroes by themselves and by others. The problem is that this desire will often remain unfulfilled, and as a consequence, it will likely only grow stronger, resulting in more and more ill-advised attempts to prove their "heroism". This is particularly troublesome for the leader, who will concern themself with much more grounded matters.
Heathcliff thought about something for a brief moment before he continued.
Heathcliff: Hm, I suppose the most important quality of someone who would be befitting of this title is that they do not view themself as a hero, nor do they seek to be. Yes, indeed. Now, to explain why this is relevant, the same applies to a leader. Surely, you have heard of the saying that power corrupts. However, it is usually not mentioned that this only applies to those who let it get to themselves. The less an individual seeks power and instead focuses their ambition on something else, the less likely it is for them to be corrupted. Conversely, someone who endeavours to become a leader of others and wants them to submit to their leadership will almost certainly turn out to be nothing but a tyrant. All in all, to see what the aspirations to become a "hero" or a "leader" against the wishes of others do, just look at what the ALS and the DKB have become – and what it has led to.
Truly, how could Asuna have denied that? The only thing they'd got out of Lind and Kibaou's respective wishes to follow in Diavel's footsteps and take the lead themselves was their perpetual rivalry and a lot of trouble she and her companions had had to sort out. Not to mention that it ultimately was the source of many of their questionable decisions… which culminated in the poorly prepared boss battle on the 25th floor.
Asuna: I see. In that case, will the aim be to… just prepare?
Heathcliff: Hm, while it may sound underwhelming, I suppose that is a proper way of phrasing it. For the time being, the goal has to be to establish a strong guild that can make a decisive difference when it counts. Speaking of which, aside from our internal preparations, let us not forget that clearing the game should not come to a standstill. After the events here on the twenty-fifth floor, the outlook of many players has certainly turned grim. In a situation like this, the most decisive difference we could make is to reignite their hopes and show that the Assault Team can do better in the future. Towards that end, I would like to send a unit to the upcoming field boss battle on the twenty-sixth floor. Hm, actually, this might be a good opportunity: Asuna-kun, I would like you to lead that unit as you make the first official appearance of the Knights of Blood Oath.
Asuna: Understood. I will make sure that our guild will make an excellent first impression, so…
That sentence remained unfinished – because Asuna's own words, specifically the "first impression" part, had reminded her of something.
Asuna: Actually, speaking of which, there was something I have been meaning to talk about with you. I would like to suggest a major improvement to our current image.
Heathcliff: Is that so? In that case, please, go ahead! I would like to hear your input.
Asuna: Thank you for your consideration. Now then, what I think we should do quickly – preferably before we first enter the scene as a guild – is to establish uniforms.
After hearing that, Heathcliff kept sitting silently with a blank look on his face for a few seconds.
Heathcliff: Uni… -forms? That is what you ascribe such importance to?
Asuna [slightly huffily]: Naturally! What kind of organisation would be careless about the way it presents itself? Have you even heard of a high school that doesn't have school uniforms?! [determinedly] As a group, how can we hope to inspire others if we do not carry ourselves in an adequate manner!? And it should go without saying that this includes a proper dress code – one that will not just be commanding respect from anyone who simply sees us, but which also reflects our very spirit uniformly! Please treat this matter with the utmost care!
Asuna's energy suddenly seemed to vanish, and with an expression that turned sour, she threw another direct look at Heathcliff… before continuing in a matching, rather miffed tone.
Asuna: In fact, if I am allowed to speak openly, I think you, in particular, should put more effort in the way you dress! You are our leader, after all, so out of all of us, you should carry yourself with dignity!
Somewhat dumbfounded, Heathcliff looked down to give his clothes a quick once over. Was there anything wrong with it? For a moment, he wondered if there were any clearly visible wrinkles or stains, but upon checking for anything that stood out, he couldn't find anything.
Heathcliff: Is something the matter? Everything appears to be as neat and clean as it can get.
Asuna: It is a lab coat! This is simply not fitting! In fact, if I did not know any better, I would assume that you were a lab assistant, not the guild master! Actually, why are you wearing this?
Heathcliff: That is because I was indeed a scientist in the real world. This gives me a feeling of nostalgia – one that I am quite fond of. Frankly, it is not as if I intend to go into battle with this kind of equipment, so I do not see the problem.
Asuna: I do! Even if you don your battle gear in the field, there will still be people who will see you like this. At the very least, other members of the guild will when they report to you, and it will simply create the wrong impression. Instead, I recommend something much more refined and exalted – and, above all, thematically fitting. A medieval tunic or a robe befitting the grandmaster of a knightly order would be ideal. [mutters] Hm, now that I think about it, I have yet to make a design for that – it's the only thing that's missing.
While Asuna kept going, Heathcliff sat still as a statue behind his desk. At first, the only thing he did was blinking – blinking and staring blankly at Asuna.
Heathcliff: I… see… I think?
Completely unfazed by Heathcliff's reaction, Asuna opened a window – basically a sketchbook with armour design drafts.
Asuna: Anyway, to get back to our uniforms: The theme should obviously be a "knightly order", and as such, plate armour should be our primary choice, with a focus on blades and polearms, preferably with a large unit of shield-users, which we fortunately have many of. As for the colour scheme, I have started with red due to the inclusion of "blood oath" in our name, and since it would be a good contrast, I picked white as the second primary colour. As for our insignia, I considered several ways to place our guild symbol on…
The current day on the 76th floor
Sinon: Hold on, Asuna!
Asuna: Huh?! U-um, what is it, Sinonon? Do you have a question?
Sinon: Well, that's one way to put it… Honestly, I just wanna make sure that I got that right: One of the first things you did as the co-leader of one of the biggest and most important guilds in a game of life and death was to… pick outfits for everyone?
Asuna [sternly]: Uniforms! [seriously, slightly huffily] And yes, that was one of the first points on the agenda, as it should be! Cutting a good figure is an important part of PR, after all!
Sinon sighed in defeat. On second thought, she wasn't even sure what other reaction she had expected from Asuna.
Lisbeth [exasperatedly]: Yeah, figures that you'd say something like that…
Silica [impressed]: But to think that Asuna-san can talk about this with so much confidence… Not to mention that she could knock the very mastermind behind this game off his stride just like that.
Philia: Right? From what I've heard, Heathcliff had played his role so perfectly that he'd been remaining completely unsuspected for one and a half years, and Asuna just went and threw that guy for a loop with clothes. How frightening…
Asuna [slightly upset]: Would you stop that?!
Yui [confusedly]: Hm… So, is that something good or something bad? From your reactions, I cannot tell – it is too unclear.
Asuna: No, don't drag this out! Honestly, you… All I did was to answer Le…
Now that she thought about it, the only one who hadn't said anything yet was the very person that had asked about the beginnings of the KoB in the first place. Asuna threw a glance at Leafa, who looked… kind of troubled? Well, presumably because she didn't know what to say about the current "topic".
Be that as it may, Asuna saw a chance to escape, and being the battle-hardened warrior she was, she didn't hesitate to take the chance, now that it had appeared.
Asuna: Ahem, now then… Leafa-san, I know we kind of… got off course – but to sum it up, the KoB was initially more or less a project to train an elite unit for the Assault Team, and especially leaders for it. Well, that, and we also had to stabilise the situation, given everything that had happened on the twenty-fifth floor… or leading up to that point. [slightly curiously] Does that answer your question?
Leafa needed a moment to process what Asuna had just said, but after that, her frown only deepened, and the corners of her mouth moved even further downward. She hesitated for a second before replying.
Leafa: Well… Y-yeah, I guess that'd be it.
Philia: ...and since the boar got stuck in that hollow tree trunk, I could get away. Too bad that I had sprained my ankle at that point, so Dad and I had to break camp and drive back. [slightly dejectedly] It's still a bummer every time I think back to that incident.
...and that concluded the story how Philia had once barely escaped from a boar in the woods – one of many camping trip stories she could… and did tell the others – since the topic had somehow shifted towards their hobbies back in the real world.
Lisbeth: No, honestly, exactly because you sprained your ankle, you should be extra thankful that you still got away from that wild boar more or less unscathed.
Silica: Yes, that much is certain… Honestly, it's kind of amazing that you can talk about such things as if it's nothing, Philia-san.
Leafa: More like "crazy", if you ask me… Actually, do you realise how reckless you sound when saying such things, Philia?!
Yui: Considering that, however, I think I can finally understand why you have so adamantly specialised in dungeon exploration, which is, by all means, a high-risk-high-reward endeavour.
Philia: I'm not that bad, you know? [slightly cheerfully] It's true that exploring unknown areas here in SAO reminds me of my trips with Dad, though. Venturing into places I have yet to see, camping in the wilderness… all the good stuff! I mean, the cave we've been to the other day really reminded me of the one I'd often played hide-and-seek in with Dad back when I was little. [slightly huffily] Although he knew that place way too well. I never had a chance against him, no matter how many times we played.
Asuna [slightly melancholically] You… really did enjoy spending time with your father like that, didn't you, Philia-san?
Philia: No need for the past tense: I still do! [slightly awkwardly] Well, although I guess I haven't gotten to for the last two and a half years, so… maybe it's not entirely wrong to say it that way. [sighs longingly] Now I really wanna go again once we get out of this game.
Sinon: Well, I suppose nothing will stop you when the time comes – [slightly exasperatedly] or rather, nothing would be able to stop you, from the looks of it.
Lisbeth: One thing for sure, rampaging wildlife can't, as your last story shows. Honestly, I still can't get over that. I think Leafa's right, if that happens to you and you'd gladly go again, then you're seriously just reckless!
Philia [crosses her arms peevishly]: I've told you: It isn't that bad! I've been going camping at pretty much every opportunity for as long as I can remember, and I've been attacked only three times so far, and one of them was just a squirrel!
Silica [tensely]: No, squirrels are not to be underestimated! Let your guard down around them even for just a second, and they'll…
Silica stopped abruptly, and she visible shivered at the thought of whatever memory she was mentally going through. Frankly, that made the others even more curious as to what she'd been about to say. However…
Lisbeth [suspiciously, slightly exasperatedly]: So, what did ruin squirrels for you – you of all people? [slightly irritatedly] No, wait! Knowing your long history of… incidents, I think I really don't wanna know after all.
Now that Lisbeth had mentioned that, the others had to agree: It was probably wiser not to dwell on this topic… and to get back to the previous one.
Leafa: I'm kinda concerned, though, that you talk about being attacked thrice as if it is nothing.
Philia: Hm… I mean, haven't we all gotten attacked many, many more times by more dangerous creatures here in SAO?
Sinon: I'm not sure how fighting monsters following fixed patterns after we willingly decided to and while we were given weapons and basically superhuman abilities to use them compares to getting ambushed by a wild boar while you're just on a stroll. Don't get me wrong, I kinda understand where you're coming from: SAO has been throwing more dangerous things at us. But I'm still not sure if that comparison holds.
Philia [slightly awkwardly]: Well… Maybe not. [slightly sternly] Regardless, I'll stick to my earlier claim: It was really not as bad as you guys make it out to be! [slightly upset] Honestly, you all sound as if you think camping is horrible – when it's really not!
Leafa: No offense, Philia, I understand that you're really into it, but I think I speak for all of us when I say that your stories have only taught me that it's really not for me.
Lisbeth: Yeah, same here. One hundred percent. I prefer a hobby with more air conditioning and clean bathrooms and less wild animals… [irritatedly] and especially with less bugs.
Philia [shrugs]: You get used to them if you spend enough time within untouched nature. I mean, I've told you Dad's saying about this, haven't I? "Out here, bugs are our constant companions – from early in the morning within and around our breakfast, to sleeping time inside our sleeping b..."
Asuna [slightly hastily]: Um, Philia-san, I think we all remember that – [thinks] probably more than we'd like to – [says aloud] so you don't have to repeat it. Really. You don't have to. Ever again.
Philia: Hm, suit yourselves. [slightly contemplatively] Although…
She turned her body slightly, just enough to get a look at Leafa, who was immediately overcome with a bad premonition.
Philia: You know what? I think you should try it, though!
Leafa: Huh? Why me?!
Philia: C'mon, it'd be fun, I promise! I just ask Dad to bring you along the next time we go. I'm sure we'll get permission!
Leafa: That doesn't answer my question! And don't get into my face like that!
By that, Leafa referred to the fact that Philia was leaning towards her and getting uncomfortably close. Leafa, in turn, had tried to slide away from her, but she'd hit the end of the sofa almost immediately, and Philia had viciously pursued her there. If anything, she'd closed the distance even further as if to trap her prey.
Philia: Because I think it'd be fun to go together, just as I said! And you could think of it as a form of training: Steel your body and mind by hiking through the wilderness of the mountains! [very excitedly] Oh, I know a place where you could do that exercise where you sit under a waterfall and meditate!
Leafa: Why are you getting so excited about that of all things?!
Frankly, Leafa was at her wits end already. Philia had hit her with this fixed idea out of the blue, and she was so enthusiastic that Leafa couldn't help but feel that she had to at least consider Philia's suggestion. That said, she really didn't want to go along with it. That way, Leafa found herself (quite literally) caught in front of Philia without any escape…
...and it was in that moment that someone knocked at the door.
Kirito: Hey, Liz, are you in there?
The sudden interruption, while not being particularly surprising, caught most of the girls off-guard. Only one of them got excited pretty much immediately.
Yui: Ah, Papa! Yes, Liz-san is here!
Kirito: Y-yui?! You're with Liz?
Lisbeth: W-well, yeah. Anyway, yeah, I'm here, and… Um, give me a second! [lowers her voice] What do you think? Would it be okay to let him in and see what he wants?
Leafa: Of course it would! If anything, wouldn't it be rude not to? I know we're having a little gathering here, but that doesn't mean we can't quickly deal with what Kirito-kun wants, right?
The swiftness with which Leafa had replied only made her ulterior motives even more obvious. Leafa was glad that she'd been saved by the bell/brother, and she'd do everything in her power to keep the topic of a camping trip with Philia off the table. Oddly enough, the "Kirito distraction" worked perfectly in this case, given that Philia was among the first to give a nod of approval.
Lisbeth: Well, if it's okay with you… [raises her voice] Alright, come in!
Thus, Kirito opened the door. He was about to speak up when he noticed that Yui was by no means Lisbeth's only visitor.
Kirito: Huh, you're all here?
Asuna: Yes, we're just having a little chat about… anything, actually. Come to think of it, I didn't tell you about this, did I?
Kirito: Don't worry, it's fine! I've only wanted to ask Liz something, but seeing that you're having a private conversation, I don't wanna intrude. Sorry for interrupting you guys! I'll get going.
He was about to close the door again and leave, but he stopped when someone called out to him.
Yui [slightly dejectedly]: You're leaving already? [cheerfully, slightly excitedly] Why don't you just join us?
Leafa: That's a good idea! Let's go with that! And let's ask Kirito-kun questions for now!
Philia: Uuuuh… Yeah, let's! That sounds fun!
Kirito [eyes Leafa suspiciously, thinks]: What exactly are you plotting, Sugu? I have a bad feeling about this… Even so, I can't just turn them down, can I? [says aloud, slightly insecurely] Would that really be okay?
Silica: I wouldn't mind you joining us, Kirito-san!
Lisbeth: Well, it's not as if we had some kind of "private girls' talk" or something like that. Honestly, I don't see any issue.
Asuna: I suppose so. It's not quite what we planned, but it doesn't sound bad, either, [slightly cheerfully] so why don't you just take Yui-chan up on her offer?
Sinon: Sounds about right, [slightly exasperatedly] so don't get so tense. [calmly] After all, where's the harm? [thinks] I mean, really: What's the worst that could happen here?
...and anyone who remembers a certain event in HF where Kirito walks in on a gathering among the girls can probably answer that question from Sinon. Come to think of it, it's featured in the previous side story.
Anyway, that's all for now. I had a few more ideas, but I had to stop at some point. In fact, you may think that the second-to-last-part (Leafa's question for Asuna) ended a bit abruptly. Well, yeah, it did. There is a deeper idea behind Leafa's interest in Asuna's "history" with the KoB, and I initially wanted to go more into that in this side story, but due to length/time issues, I put that on hold.
Next time (hopefully not in a few months), I'll continue the main story - it's about time to get back to it.