SAO: Avenger

by JCK824TO

It's been two months since SAO was cleared. But the 300 players remain comatose, including Asuna Yuuki. But when he learns about the arranged marriage & the possibility of Asuna in ALfheim Online, Kazuto, & his friends, dive into ALO in search of her. However, they're not the only ones. Steve Rogers, Thomas Anderson, & the Howler Platoon dives in to investigate.

8. Chapter 8

Inside the Legrue Corridor:

"Retreat! Retreat!" Revere pushed Sleek and Silica along as the SAO group and their Army Ranger companions were running for their lives from a giant threatening to crush them. "Jackhammer, covering fire!"

"Suppressing fire!" Jackhammer yelled as he unloads his SCAR 25 rifle into the giant humanoid-like creature that is charging towards the group. Revere and Jackhammer fired their Pulsar-enhanced rifles at the two-headed giant. He was clearly stunned as the beam-like shots impacted it, but it just shrugged them off and roared, even angrier.

"I think you two are just making it angrier!" Kirito yelled.

"You think!?" Lexar asked loudly. Revere then pulled out a digital representation of an M67 grenade and pulled the pin. "Frag out!" He hurled the grenade at high speeds towards the twin faces of the monster. The grenade explodes at close proximity of the twin faces.

"Deploying smoke!" Jackhammer tossed two smoke grenade canisters on the ground. They spewed out a white blinding smoke to cover the area.

"Let's get out of here!" Jack ordered. Revere and Jack ran through the smoke. As they did, they saw Kirito, Lexar, and Leafa getting a little disoriented. Revere grabbed Kirito, while Lexar and Leafa were picked up by Jackhammer. Everyone else are already ahead of them. Klein, Agil, Mace, and Lisbeth are the ones left to help Kirito and the others.

"Get moving, the lug's still behind us!" Revere ordered.

"How the heck did we end up here!?" Lexar groaned, "what is this ice hole anyways!?"

"I think we've made a wrong turn!" Kirito shook his head.

Lisbeth glared at Leafa. "I thought you knew this cave!"

"I did!" Leafa replied. "At least... I thought I did!" She shivers as she feels the cold temperatures. Revere took a quick glance around the area... it was some kind of frosty forest in the middle of an icy cavern... a giant icy cavern. They looked up to see the cavern ceiling extended high up in the air.

"Where are we?!" Mace looked around.

"If this is supposed to be hell," Klein yelled, "it certainly froze over!"

Revere gritted his teeth as he fired several more shots into the giant's face as he ran. "Not the time for jokes, Mr. Klein," he scolded.

"He's right," Agil agreed. "We need to stay focus and get out of here before we get flatten."

Rain whined loudly as she felt her breath chill. "All this running is making me tired!"

"I'm tired too! But we need to push on!" Haze reassured her, despite feeling the icy wind blowing against his skin.

"I'll carry you!" He picks up Rain and carries her over his shoulder as he ran with the others. Revere quickly did a check on his ammo; he was down to four of ten magazines in his vest pouches and one in his rifle. He was also down to only two frag grenades.

Jackhammer checked his ammo; he's only got three of ten magazines left in his vest pouches, plus one in his rifle.

"We're down to less than half our ammo each, and we're barely making a dent in the guy." Revere grunted, "we should have packed our grenade launchers."

"Or rocket launchers." Jackhammer groaned. "We just have to suffice for now and gotta keep moving." Kirito was helped by Klein as he ran up along Strea and Codex, Yui popped out of his pocket. "Strea, Yui," he talked to them, "any quick way out of this? Our Army friends might run out of bullets before that giant tires out!"

Both Yui and Strea scanned the entire ice cave.

"Please tell us something," Codex said, "I'm shivering my timbers here!"

The AIs turned their gazes back to Kirito and Codex. "It appears that we've reached the realm of Jötunheimr." Yui stated.

"Come on, come on," Codex was breathless, "way out, please!" More gunfire erupted from behind them to emphasize his point.

"There's an exit that's across the frozen lake up ahead." Strea added.

"Thanks Strea," Codex managed a smile.

"You're welcome.." She smiles. Strea then ran ahead. "Come on everyone!"

"You heard her! Follow Strea!" Codex ordered. Following right behind her. The group ran until they came into a clearing across from the lake... but the lake was very huge. It seemed to stretch the majority of the cavern in diameter, and would take a long time to go around. Some of the guys and girls glared at Strea and Yui.

"This is the only way to get to Alne!" Strea whined.

"Well, this is hardly fast!" Philia cried.

More gunfire, loud crashes, shouts, and roars came from behind; the monster was closing and the two Rangers were not faring too well.

"I'm down to my last mag!" Jack called as he reloads the last clip.

"Single shots!" Revere prompted as he loaded his third to last mag. While he had been more disciplined, he too knew that it was only a matter of time. Jack switches the firing mode on the SCAR 25 to semi-auto and continued to fire at the humanoid-like creature. The creature roared and swung his fists down towards Revere, who rolled out of the way with his super reflexes and took aim. With a deep breath and hiss, Revere aimed for one of the eyes on the left head and fired a single shot. The result was the giant roaring in pain as it lost an eye.

"I've got twenty rounds left!" Jack called. Revere had 95 rounds of 5.56mm left in reserve, and now the giant was very mad at him. "I'll distract him, go!" Revere took off in another direction as the giant chased him.

"Captain!" Jackhammer yelled as the super soldier leapt away.

"Come on, fat and ugly!" Revere taunted as he raised his M4v1 and made hooting noises. The creature roared and started to chase Revere. Jackhammer caught up with the others.

"Where's Revere?" Kirito asked.

"He blinded the giant in one of the eyes and got him mad..." Jackhammer gasped, "and now he's playing chicken with it."

"He's crazy!" Leafa exclaimed.

"One Ranger against a mythical monster!?" Agil wondered.

"Kinda impressive! Crazy! But impressive!" Klein observed.

"That's... like the first Revere," Kirito remembered. Two gunshots and an explosion sounded in the distance. Everyone waited anxiously.

"Wait here," Kirito told the others as he drew his sword and ran off.

"Kirito!" Leafa cried as he disappeared into the icy mist.

"Eat this!" Revere managed to catch the giant in a slow moment and blasted out another eye with a well-placed Pulsar bullet. The creature roared in pain and stumbled back, clutching its eye. Revere fired three more shots at the affected face. It stumbles back some more. Revere checked the hit bar above the monster. And sees that only a quarter of it depleted.

"Still not enough."

The monster roared again and slammed its fists on the ground, creating a shockwave. It knocked Revere onto his back.

"Agh..." Revere saw his own hit bar take a pretty big hit. The creature raised its first up in the air, preparing to strike down on Revere. Suddenly... a white mass came out of nowhere. And attacked the humanoid creature. Revere managed to shake off the stun effects of the shockwave. He then saw what saved him. The creature itself resembles a white spatulated fish, or a flat rice paddle from the side with four pairs of wings that resemble fins, numerous ivy-like tentacles hanging from both sides of his body. It also has three black eyes on each side and an elephant-like trunk for a nose

"What on earth?" Revere muttered despite the setting. Kirito arrives and helps Revere up on his feet.

"Revere, you're hurt," Kirito noticed the hit bar.

"I'm fine..." Revere replied. Kirito pulls out one of the healing potions from his inventory and gives it the Revere.

"Thanks," Revere took the potion and downed it. He coughed and hacked. "Ugh... that's awful."

"I know." Kirito chuckled. "But it helps regain your health."

"If I don't get diabetes first," Revere retorted as his hit bar went up. The Black Swordsman and Ranger captain looked up to see the two titans slug it out.

"Whoa!" Kirito said in awe. "What is that thing?"

"Heck if I know..." Revere said, "but it ain't killing us."

"It looks like a giant white jellyfish."

"A giant jellyfish with the face of an elephant," Revere added as the white creature hit the giant with its trunk.

"And green eyes." Kirito pointed out.

"Kirito!" Lexar and Leafa came rushing in.

"Leafa! Lexar!"

"We're here!"

"You guys alright?!"

"Kirito just found me," Revere breathed, "I blinded the giant again and nearly got crushed..."

It was then Leafa sees the two creatures duking it out with each other.

"And that white jelly-elephant saved my hide."

"Man! Look at that!" Lexar exclaimed. "I never seen a creature like that before."

"Yeah, but that thing is giving us a distraction," Revere said as he retrieved the M4v1, "we should retreat while we can."

"I agree." Kirito said. He, Revere, Lexar, and Leafa head back to the group.

"Kirito! Guys! Over here!" Lisbeth called out. In the distance, the struggle between the two giants was visible as Kirito and Revere were helped back.

"We need to help out that giant creature." Leafa pointed to the clashing giants.

Revere looked back, and saw that the humanoid giant as starting to wrestle the jelly-elephant into the ground. "That's not our mission, Leafa. We are withdrawing."

"That giant creature just saved you and Kirito." Leafa drew out her Katana. "It's time we return the favor.." She ran in the opposite direction.

"Leafa!" Revere clasped his rifle tightly, "stubborn girl..."

"I'm going back. She's right.." Lexar drew out his Great Steel Broadsword and ran after Leafa. Kirito groaned, unsheathed his Black Iron Great Sword and followed suit.

"Get back here!" Revere yelled.

Immediately, Spade went after him. Then Mace, Lisbeth, Rex, Kureha and Klein. Even some of Klein's posse ran off after them.

Revere just grunted and ran after them. "Jack, hold the rest back!"

"On it!" Jack replied.

Jack held out his hands to block Sleek, Silica, Codex, Strea, Agil, Philia, Haze, and Rain from helping. "Sorry, kids! Can't allow the rest of ya'll to be put at risk!" He added.

"Come on!" Strea whined.

"Sorry, young lady. I got orders.."

Agil sighed and stood alongside Jack. "Hate to say it, but his captain's orders. He's got enough on his plate keeping us going and alive."

"He's right, Strea. We need to stay put." Codex reassured her.

Revere saw that Kirito and friends were already launching their magic attacks on the humanoid giant, but not doing much damage to help the white jelly-elephant.

"It's not working!" Dale shouted.

"I gave all of you direct orders!" Revere shouted to Klein.

"We're helping out those who helped us!" Klein replied.

"That thing's an NPC, and we've got hundreds of real sentient human lives counting on us!" Revere argued.

"Tell that to Leafa and the others!' Klein countered. She, along with Kirito and Lexar were trying to find a weak point towards the hostile humanoid creature.

"Aim for the legs!" Lexar shouted. "Bring it to its knees!"

Kirito's sword flashed as he charged up a skill. "Haaaaa -Yaaaaaaahhhh!" Kirito shouted as he charged towards the humanoid creature, slashing at the legs, as well as the back of the knees. The giant looked down at him and kicked him away hard.

"Aaakk!" Kirito tumbled on the ground.

"Kirito!" Lexar yelled as he felt his hands and sword heat up. He looks at the monster for any other weaknesses. Then, he sees that its eyes are wounded.

'The head..' He thought. Kirito realized how he was rapidly down to a quarter of his hit bar. But... something felt different. It was as though the pain was dulling faster than would otherwise be possible.

"Kirito!" Leafa hands him one of the healing potions.

"No..." Kirito pushed it away as he felt a rush. He then saw his own hit bar regenerating. Leafa watches in surprise as Kirito's hit bar regenerated before her. "Kirito, what perk do you have?"

"Health Regenerator.."

"But..." Leafa shook her head, "no such perk or program exists..."

"It's a long story..."

The humanoid creature roars as it raises its foot up to stomp on them. Kirito then saw Lexar rush forward and jump with fire in his hands, lighting his sword.

"YYAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!" The American Spriggan shouted as he ran up its leg, dodging the creature's arms as it tried to grab him. He jumped and stuck his flame sword into its chest. And it was shoved deep until the hilt is the only thing left sticking out. The creature roared in pain. Revere fired his M4v1 in semi auto to support Lexar and the other heavy hitters, even though they still did little damage.

Lexar twists the sword, driving it deeper. It was then that the jelly-elephant got a second wind and rammed the giant, pushing it towards the lake.

"WHOA!" Lexar exclaimed as he felt the humanoid creature being shoved towards the frozen lake. He pulled the sword out and backflipped off the monster. He lands perfectly on his feet and watches as the monster is pushed onto the frozen lake. The jelly-elephant also dove in. The ice underneath the humanoid monster begins to crack. The two monsters fell in. It was then that Kirito and the others began to see the tide really turn.

A few moments later, the Humanoid monster starts to sink into the cold waters of the lake. The jelly-elephant on the other hand seemed to do well in the water as it lashed with its trunk and tentacles. Pushing it deeper into the water.

"Of course," Kirito beamed, "it's a Water Type!"

"The Jelly-Elephant then makes a jump-dive. Pushing the humanoid monster underwater. The water splashes around as the two titans wrestled. Then, all went silent. Suddenly, the Jelly-Elephant shot out of the water. It gave a loud, long honk as it unveiled six, fairy-like wings. Signaling its victory.

"Well... That was interesting..." Lexar commented. Jack and the others also came alongside Kirito, Revere, and the main group.

"You guys alright?" He asks.

"We're fine." Revere breathed.

It was then the Jelly-Elephant flew towards them. "Got some unusual company about us, though."

The Jelly-Elephant stops right in front of them. It gazes down on them with its big, green eyes. Observing them curiously. Revere fingered the safety on his rifle.

"Uhh... Nice Jelly-Elephant?" Kirito said nervously. Revere was about to raise his rifle to threaten the creature when Leafa slapped down the muzzle.

"Wait... It's not attacking.." She whispered. The Jelly-Elephant raised its trunk gently. And extended it towards them. It rubbed its trunk against Leafa gently.

"Hehehe.." Leafa giggles. "It's cute!"

Then it rubbed its trunk against both Lexar and Kirito.

"What's it doing?" Lexar laughed, feeling the fuzzy trunk rubbing against his cheek.

"I think it's thanking us," Kirito chuckled at the fuzziness.

"Well that's all good and well," Revere cut in, "but we've got a war to win. Time to part ways and get going."

"Sir, about that," Jack interrupted. "We need to cross this entire frozen lake." He pointed out. "And we don't have the proper gear for cold weather." The rest of the party themselves started to shiver as the virtual adrenaline wore off.

"We don't even have ice skates for this." Mace groaned. The Jelly-Elephant suddenly gave a low moan as though responding to the group's plight. Leafa, Kirito, and everyone watched as the Jelly-Elephant gently lowered one of its giant tentacles down towards them.

"I think he's offering us a ride," Silica realized.

"Well, let's climb up.." Sleek suggested. Lexar's the first to step onto the giant tentacle. He turned around and extend his hand to Leafa.

"Welcome aboard, madam," Lexar teasingly emulated a British gentleman's accent.

"Hehehe... Why thank you, kind sir.." Leafa giggles as she took his hand. He pulls her up onto the tentacle. Sleek and Silica went up to the creature.

"Wow.. This is very nice.." Sleek commented.

"Hehehe!" Silica giggled as they were lifted up.

"After you, my lady.." Mace offered.

"Such a gentleman," Lisbeth playfully rolled her eyes. Mace helps her up before climbing up with her. Haze helps Rain up. The former could tell how exausted she is. Rex had to help Kureha up likewise too.

"Let's keep it moving, people," Revere marshalled, coming to terms with the unusual situation and opportunity. Soon enough, everyone has climbed up and rested on the creature's furry back.

"Alright people, I'll take charge of this here steed," Revere called.

"Just be gentle with Tonky, okay?" Leafa gave him a puppy look.

Jackhammer raised an eyebrow at Leafa. "Tonky?"

Revere gave Leafa a weird look. "Okay, where did that one come from?"

"It was from a book that Kirito and I used to read when we were kids.." Leafa confessed. Her cheeks went pink.

"You're giving names to NPCs?" Revere did not seem that amused.

"Well... It does have a nice fitting.." Kirito mused.

"Guys... it's a program," Revere shook his head, "don't get so attached to it." That's when Leafa became offended. Lexar came up and comforted her. Strea and Yui suddenly went up to Revere.

"How far is the exit again?" Revere asks.

"With Tonky's airspeed, we can get to the exit in just four minutes," Yui noted with a bit of a miffed expression.

Strea was not so circumspect, "that is not very nice, Revere."

"Why?" Revere frowned.

"Because Tonky saved you from the Humanoid Evil-God base creature and you had to talk down to Auntie Leafa.." Yui stated with a noticeable pout.

"I..."

"And don't think we didn't catch your derogatory remarks about 'programs'," Strea frowned.

"They do have a point, you know." Jackhammer whispered. Revere frowned. Even his trusted lieutenant was talking back to him. Not wanting to get into this argument anymore, he just said, "let's get a move on."

Revere turned towards the front to take charge, like with the horses he rode back home. He then glanced back towards Leafa. "Personally though, Ulysses or Titus would have been more suitable choices for such a beast."

"Like I said. It's from a book from my childhood." Leafa explains. "Even Kirito agrees." She turns to Kirito. "Right?"

"Yes. It took me a moment to remember the book.." Kirito chuckles nervously.

"Kids..." Revere shook his head. He then gave Tonky taps on his 'crown'. "Alright boy," he said in a commanding tone like riding a horse, "giddy-up!" It didn't move however.

"Giddy-up!" Revere tapped his foot. Still nothing."Please?"

"Perhaps you should let Leafa take control." Lexar suggested.

Revere shook his head as he relented. Leafa steps up and gently rubs Tonky's crown.

"Hey Tonky.." she said in a smooth, honeyed voice. "Please, fly us.." The Jelly-Elephant, Tonky, groaned in response. Then its giant fairy-like wings fluttered. Moments later, it takes off from the ground and is flying above the frozen lake.

"Why did it not listen to me," Revere muttered, "I've handled animals as a horse rider..."

Leafa and some of the girls rolled their eyes. "Well... You had to ask nicely to Tonky..." Leafa explains, placing her hands on her hips.

"She's right you know." Lisbeth remarked.

"It may be a NPC to you, Revere." Silica added. "But it's a very nice creature. And it should be treated with kindness and love.."

"Silica's got a point.." Philia observed.

"Agreed." Kureha frowned.

"I cannot understand some people." Rain shook her head.

Jackhammer stiffen a snicker.

"Maybe it's because he's dealt with too many stubborn rodeo horses," Klein joked, causing some guys to snicker.

"That's probably the case.." Spade chuckles. "Wonder how many times he got thrown off?"

"Actually wild hog hunting," Revere retorted, "stubborn horses, but speedy and able to steady themselves for a clear shot."

"That explains it." Spade replied.

Rain sighed and leaned against Haze's arm. The male Cait Sith wraps his arm around her and pulls her closer.

"So exhausted.." Rain groaned.

"Relax, Rain," Haze said as they laid against the fur. "We've made it. Soon, we'll get to Alne and we'll rest up."

Revere himself sat next to Kirito and the other guys, doing a check on his rifle and inventory.

"We're getting close to Alne." Kirito said. "We'll log out when we start renting rooms at the Inns. And next stop, the World Tree.." He leaned back against the fur. "We're almost there, Asuna..." He said to himself.

---

Onboard the USS Wilson:

"So... they're making their moves then," Titania mused, watching the events play out on a separate monitor.

"Believe so.." Agent Maria Hill replied. "Colonel Rogers?" Colonel Rogers eyed the reports of Shouzou Yuuki's kidnapping and his wife's disappearance. It was no doubt that Hydra's behind the abductions of the Yuuki family.

"We got a plan ourselves then?" Titania asked, eyeing him out of the corner of her visible eye.

"Yes.. Once we release the 300 hostages and capture Nobuyuki. That'll lead us to the whereabouts of the Yuuki family." Rogers surmises.

"Somehow I doubt it'll be that easy," Titania muttered, her eye narrowing. "Hydra is far too cunning to allow that to happen without making it difficult for us."

"True... But we got at least try... We're not abandoning her family at the mercy of Hydra.." Rogers then turned to the operator. "Where are Burke and Preston now?"

"Nothing yet sir," the operator going by the codename Helios reported, "in-game tracking is still offline."

"Keep looking. We need to know their location."

"Yes sir."

Colonel Rogers then looked to Fury. "Worst comes to shove, we may have to mobilize Howlers 7-2 and 7-3 early to neutralize our real world targets."

Titania gave a nod. "I understand how hard it is to be without family..." she muttered. "But... we still have to be wary of Hydra and their next moves." Her eye narrowed as she looked to the main console. "Unity, I hope you're ready for your part."

"I am!" the AI replied.

"Trinity and Unity will be crucial support for Burke and Preston in cyberspace against Hydra," Fury noted, "we'll need every terabyte of cyber power to shut down Hydra's RECT operations and isolate Nobuyuki's cell from any others that might still be out there. Failure is not an option."

"Will do, Fury.." Trinity responded. It was then that Thomas Anderson came into the secure operations center.

"Anything new?" Thomas asked.

"The Yuuki father's been kidnapped and the mother is missing," Colonel Rogers told him, "so I hope you have something for Delta One to use."

"I do.." He replied.

Unity took the chance to respond. "I'll do a bit more than that!" she remarked.

Colonel Rogers laughed. "You know it is rude to interrupt people, kid."

"As I was saying..." Thomas continued. "Fury notified me that Delta One had recovered the cpu from the crashed SUV before the authorities arrived. Accorded to the files, it shows that Shouzou Yuuki was accompanied by three military servicemen."

"Really?" Colonel Rogers was intrigued, "who were they?"

Thomas reads the report on his tablet. "Captain David Mitchell, Lieutenant Junior Jonathan Mitchell... And Private Aoto Ogawa of the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force." He gazed at Rogers with a grim expression. "Private Ogawa is deceased... Killed on impact."

"Who did Ogawa report to?" Fury then asked.

"We believe Ogawa was reporting to Colonel Kikuoka... Kikuoka Seijirou."

"Hmm... isn't he a member of a commission investigating the SAO Incident?" Colonel Rogers asked.

"Yes, he's the head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs's Telecommunications Bureau, Advanced Network Division, Second Office. Aka the Virtual Division." Thomas said.

Colonel Rogers shook his head. "I don't know if he knows the kind of threat he is facing... Hydra has a lot of moles and firepower, and could easily overpower civilian government agencies."

"Maybe..." Thomas surmised. "But, as far as we're concerned. It's a safe bet that they're trying to figure out what's going on."

"They'll be walking into a trap." As Colonel Rogers was talking with Captain Anderson, none of them noticed Fury quickly and quietly stepping out of the room. As Rogers and Anderson continued their discussion on the possible outcome. The operator, Helios, spoke up.

"Colonel. I've got their signal." Helios saw signals on his game map screen as his two superiors leaned over. Revere and Jackhammer were showing up, and the SAO guild signatures were popping up one by one as they emerged. Rogers and Thomas approached Helios.

"Where at?" Rogers asked.

"They've appeared outside the city near the World Tree, sir. Alne, I believe." Helios answered. He zoomed in on the area near the giant tree.

"Establish contact with Revere and Jackhammer on the update." He ordered. As Helios worked to restore communications, Rogers watched the ALO news announce the debut of the Industrial Revolution Update.

---

Alfheim Online, outside Alne city:

Revere was getting a headcount as his comms beeped. He opened his status window and saw it was Helios. Quickly answering it, he said, "Helios, this is Revere."

"Helios to Revere. Report your status update?"

"Be advised," Revere reported, "our stealth has been blown in contact with hostile civilian bounty hunters, and we are low on health, items, and ammo." Kirito and Lexar overheard this and looked to their friends... they all seemed rather tired, and their own inventories were rather spent.

"We're close to Alne." Lexar whispered. "We should be able to find a place to rest and log out.."

"Right," Kirito whispered back, "but let's see what the Captain has to say. He's still talking."

"Revere," Helios had a serious tone behind his professional voice, "be advised that you have numerous signatures converging on the entrances to the city. We believe them to be warrior player signatures and advise against advancing at this time."

"Roger that, Helios. Should we hide either in the city or elsewhere?" Revere asked again. He looked over his shoulder to check for any incoming bounty hunters. Nothing, so far...

"Revere, set up your spawn beacons at the specific coordinate being uploaded to your messaging board. We'll relay cyber reinforcements, supplies, and defenses to your location."

"Affirmative, Helios. We're at the gates of Alne. But we'll head towards a forest that's close-by."

Jackhammer pulled out some binoculars to look towards the gates; true enough, there were Cait Sith hunters congregating in no small number. He looked at some of the other gates and found armed warriors there as well.

"Captain, we got company heading our way." He warned.

"We're in no condition to fight," Revere assessed the situation, "withdraw before they see us."

"Affirmative." Jackhammer turns to Kirito and his friends. "Alright, we're too expose out here. Head to the forest. We'll lose them in the trees and find a spot to lay low." He ordered.

"We're heading to the forest now, Helios. We'll radio you when we're safe." Revere added.

"Roger, and one more thing," Helios finished, "be on the look out for the Industrial Revolution update. Hydra may be looking to use it to arm their bounty hunters better. Out."

Kirito and the others groaned at what they were told.

"I thought we could get a nice inn!" Lisbeth threw up her hands.

"Afraid not. There's a possibility that many bounty hunters would be waiting for all of us the moment we log in." Jackhammer explains. "Plus, we need to head to a safe area where the Howlers can spawn and for better defense. Now, follow us!" Both he and Revere headed towards the forest that is near the city.

"You heard him. follow Revere and Jack!" Kirito ordered. Groans and whines are heard from the group. However, they complied and followed the two soldiers into the forest. It wasn't easy for Haze as he's carrying Rain in his arms. But he managed to keep up with the others. This reminded Kirito of his first outcast status.

As they headed deeper into the forest. The trees around them grew thicker as well as the foliage above them.

"The thick trees will help us to keep out of sight," Revere noted. After a few minutes of running, they find a clearing where they're bushes in several places. As well as a cave nearby.

"We should check the cave for any creatures that are hiding." Lexar suggested. Revere trained his rifle while Jack drew his pistol. Both soldiers headed inside the cave. A couple of minutes went by before they came back out.

"We didn't find anything or anybody." Jackhammer said. "So, we're safe."

"Reception is also good in there for us," Revere said as he clicked on his inventory and produced what looked to be a glowing receiver on a tripod.

"We'll be setting up an outpost here. The trees will conceal us from any players that are roaming above."

"Good," Rain moaned, "I'm tired." Haze sets her down next to one of the trees and lies next to her.

"Now I know how Kirito probably felt..." Haze moaned.

"Jackhammer," Revere handed the device to him, "set it up and get your avatar's ammo replenished."

"On it.." Jackhammer takes the device and begins setting it up. Revere kept watch for the whole group, his silent sentinel gaze staring out into the peaceful night. A few minutes later, the device is set up. Jackhammer pushes the few buttons on it and the device activated.

"Got it.." Jackhammer checks his inventory and sees his ammunition replenishing itself. Correspondingly, caches of supplies, ammo, and weapons began to appear.

"This should help us for a time being until the Howlers arrive." Jack said. "Won't take long to set up the tents." Some of the others came over, fascinated by what they were seeing. Pretty soon, military tents begin to materialize before them.

"You guys are prepared," Agil said in admiration.

"Thank Captain Anderson for all this.." Jack smiled. "He's the one who managed to make this possible.."

Kureha and Rex went over to the weapons cache. Viewing and admiring the variety of firearms that are on display. From pistols and SMGs to shotguns, assault rifles and sniper rifles. Not to mention explosive weapons such as grenade launchers, rocket launchers, and flamethrowers. Spade eyed the weapons and whistled. "These are only digital representations, but wow..."

"I recognize some of them," Mace remarked, "but I don't think I've seen many of these before... I don't even think these are standard issue."

"Some of them are modified..." Jackhammer explains. He picked up an M4v1 not unlike Revere's. And shows it to the others.

"This is just a standard version of the M4v1 rifle.." He says. "Lightweight, highly durable, reliable and accurate."

Lexar thought he recognized the rifle. "That looks like a Daniel Defense M4. I thought that particular model was out of production."

"They were... Until after the civil war. The 75th wanted a small arm that drew on the existing strengths of the older M4s, but better," Jack went on.

"Neat." Lexar was surprised.

"For one, the ambi lowers are nice... feels about a pound lighter, and a cold hammer forged barrel that helps my captain here shoot the combs off of roosters."

"Nice.." Lexar gazes his attention back at the stack of assault rifles. One of them catches his eye. "Is that the P-418 rifle?" Jack sets the M4v1 down and picks up the other rifle.

"Ahh.. I see you got a keen eye for the Patriot Ordinance Factory P-418 assault rifle." He said.

"What's that?" Philia wondered.

"The P-418 is the successor of the P-416." Jack displays the slim looking rifle. "It's compatible with small and large rifle calibers with simple modular changes to the uppers and magwell inserts. That way it's compatible with the new 6.8x51mm cartridge."

"The magwell is oversized," Haze thought aloud.

"That it is.." Jack chuckles. "It also uses the Mega Arms MATEN receiver system, often found in the AR-15 and P-415 slash 416 rifles as well as the short stroke gas piston. Its custom attachment system on the handguard along with the stainless steel muzzle brake."

"The partnership between Patriots Ordinance Factory and Anderson Tech Industries led to the creation of this rifle to supply the American Rangers and the Militias before the civil war." He added. "That gave the Free States an edge during the early days of the war."

Revere watched the whole thing as he stood guard over the group. He turned back out to watch the night skies, when Kirito and Leafa walked up to him. "Here, Revere." The captain turned to see that the two siblings were offering him 5.56mm magazines for his rifle.

"Thanks.." Revere said as he took the magazines and placed them in the ammo pouch in the vest.

"You're welcome," Kirito said as he and Leafa sat next to him.

"Any reason you two decided to join me?" Revere said as he stood sentry next to a tree.

"We wanna thank you for assisting us back in the Legrue Corridor." Kirito said.

"Hmm... it was nothing," Revere shrugged, "I can't let civvies get hurt under my watch."

"It was amazing that you're able to bring modern firearms, and gear, into an Alfheim fantasy game." Leafa chimed.

"Well, our military cyberwarfare abilities are well beyond the constraints of video games." Revere then frowned as he realized something. "but since this game's engine and infrastructure are under Hydra control, there's no telling what they may pull out with this Industrial Revolution update."

"Isn't one of your technicians helped out with your mission? Thomas Anderson, is it?" Kirito asked.

"You mean Doc?" Revere said, "goes without saying."

"I've read up about him in the past." Kirito continued. "He's been making and releasing new technology. Ranging from civilian computers to military hardware."

"An Anderson fanboy?" Revere raised an eyebrow.

"Well... I found his intelligence and his engineering skills superb." Kirito explained. He was sheepish on his last statement.

Leafa shook her head. "Trust me, Kirito's been geeking over Thomas Anderson and his company since we were younger.."

"And he's interested of enrolling for the company before SAO." She continued. "He's such a nerd with it comes to computers and video games."

"Look who's talking," Kirito playfully retorted.

"What do you mean?" Leafa was confused.

Kirito chuckled as he pointed to Leafa. "You've been playing ALO for how long?" He teased.

"Kazuto..." Leafa pouted.

"Come on, Sugu," Kirito teased, "admit it, you've got the gamer in you!"

"Uuuuugghhh.." Leafa groaned. "Okay... Fine..."

Revere seemed to eye Kirito with a sudden hint of nostalgia.

"I've been playing Alfheim Online ever since it came out." She confessed.

Kirito's eyes widened. "Over a year..." He then snickered, "you are a gamer!"

Leafa blushes. "Ever since the AmuSpheres came out and they stated that they're safer, I fell in love with VR gaming." Leafa rubbed the ground. " I always wondered how you were absorbed into all this..."

"I know what you mean.." Kirito said. "When I tried the beta version of SAO, I was amazed by how they were able to make the VR helmet surperb... That included the first-generation VR simulator they had at the amusement park a few years ago."

"Tell me about it." Leafa added.

"I remember how it wowed the entire world... It made the other VR technology look ancient. That included what Stark Industries had in the past..."

Leafa giggled.

"What was that Stark made?" Kirito pondered. "Oh yeah, Binarily Augmented Retro-Framing."

"BARF?" Leafa concluded. It was followed by laughter.

"That is so lame!" Leafa laughed.

"I know!" Kirito agreed.

Neither of them noticed the silent pain behind Revere's blazing blue eyes and stoic face.

"It's not even for VR gaming." Kirito added. "It's more of a self-therapy machine. However, despite the presentation, it wasn't released to the public."

"Lame," Leafa playfully pouted.

"Although I recall reading that Anderson Tech Industries made adjustments to it after the takeover of Stark Industries. But it's mainly used for therapy."

Leafa looked thoughtful all of a sudden.

"It's still going through trials though. Searching for glitches and upgrading it."

"But..." Leafa slightly shivered, "if what they said about Nobuyuki's deeds in the States as Barnas Shinsei is correct, a lot of people may need it."

"Very true..." Kirito lamented. "Let's hope that the system is finished in time."

"It will be..." Revere answered, "because no one else is going to suffer what he did to many of my countrymen and troops."

"Agreed." Kirito nodded.

"Same here." Leafa added.

Revere gazed upon the two siblings. "Kirito... I don't say this in front of the others," he began, "but you have his spirit."

Kirito was confused. "I do?"

Revere leaned back against the tree as nostalgia took over. "Taylor... had a joy for life and a love for people and family that was contagious..."

"Now that you've mentioned it. He'd showed me that I should enjoy life." Kirito recollected. "Despite being in a death game, he was relaxed as if he didn't have a care in the world."

Revere gave a nod. Leafa thought he just looked sad. "Even when the civil war raged in Texas... and he was on the other coast," he said, "he... he had a vibrant spirit." Revere looked to the moon. "He found joy in the simple things... things many take for granted until it's gone..."

"That sounds like Taylor.." Kirito smiled. "And I managed to find peace in SAO. Even Asuna found it weird I was resting in the middle of the grassy field." He chuckled at the memory of Asuna waking up drowsy and with the blade of grass stuck to her cheek and drool at the corner of her mouth. Revere seemed to want to chuckle, but the hurt just seemed to be deep.

"Yeah..." he said, "a true gem from God... why him though... He survived the civil war and helped so many people... with that joy and love few guys had left. Why him?"

It was at that moment, Kirito and Leafa felt pity for Revere. "And Kyle..." Revere shook his head, "he saved me many times deep behind the lines... I wasn't there for him... and his sister is without her older brother..." He then tightened his grip on his M4v1, gaze hardening. "People like Akihiko Kayaba... and Sugou Nobuyuki... take such good people from us so cruelly."

The Kirigayas see the pain in Revere's eyes, despite gazing towards the ground. "Well, too late to do anything about Kayaba now... but at least Nobuyuki will pay for the crimes he's committed, and there's no place we Howlers won't sniff him out."

Silence fell amongst the three. It was Kirito who broke the silence. "Don't worry, Revere. We'll get to him." He reassured him.

"I'm not worried," Revere had a fiery gaze behind the steely expression, "he and Hydra will be the ones worrying when we come knocking." He then rose from the tree and checked the time. "Getting late, y'all," he noted. Kirito and Leafa checked the clocks on their status windows.

"Yes, it is." Leafa yawned.

"You all must be hungry then," Revere remarked.

"Probably." Kirito groaned. The Ranger captain looked over to the rest of the group. All of which are marveling the display from the weapons cache. It was then they hear a system's voice speaking.

"The ALO server will be down for a scheduled maintence and for the update." It spoke. Soon, the news of the Industrial Revolution update began to spread on the status windows.

"Industrial Revolution?" Sleek and Silica looked at each other curiously as they read. They see that, while they'll maintain melee weapons such as swords, newer weapons will be introduced to the players. They see the display of the firearms, ranging from pistols to shotguns and rifles. They're a mix from the late-19th century and steam/diesel punk varieties. Even animal steeds were getting their own armor upgrades...

"Well... This should be interesting..." Mace stated.

"Oh man..." Klein looked to the bounty on Revere and Jackhammer. "The bounty on you two has increased.."

"How much?" Jackhammer asked.

"They're at six million on each of you."

"And adding the new weapons, equipment, and supplies as rewards," Philia added, seeing a whole new slew of rewards.

"Oh no," Rex paled, "that's not the only thing they are adding." There was another reward event... featuring portraits of American soldier avatars.

"This isn't good." Kureha gasped as she reads the details regarding the images. The text read that to celebrate the advancement of Alfheim Online into the Industrial Revolution and its planned international launch by RECT Progress, players of Alfheim's fairy races would have the chance to fight off human invaders from Earth in the form of modern soldiers. RECT was putting it out there that fighting and taking out invading American soldier avatars would offer bonuses and equipment rewards to give the winning races advantages in the Grand Quest.

"This isn't good." Codex gulped.

"Hydra is putting bounties on American soldiers!?" Harry One exclaimed.

"And that includes the Howler Platoon and anyone with them.." Lexar concluded. He turned to Jackhammer and Revere. "We're gonna need some help if we're gonna get to the World Tree.."

Jackhammer looked to his leader. "Hydra is really stepping it up."

Something about it bothered Revere. "Our scramblers are active, correct?"

Jackhammer checks his status window. "Yes Captain, all scramblers are still active."

"This is almost too much to be coincidence," Revere noted, "and the timing is as if they are expecting a full-scale attack tomorrow rather than just dealing with glitchy viruses or cheaters."

"It's best that Colonel Rogers and Captain Anderson join in the fight tomorrow, sir." Jackhammer suggested.

"We do that," Revere warned, "we will definitely confirm to Hydra that there is an American presence in ALO. We've already burned enough of our stealth as is, and more people are getting suspicious."

"I'm sure that they know when we bring the Howlers in here." Jack pointed out. "It's best that we head to Alne, and make a beeline to the World Tree gates."

"But bringing the Colonel and Doc into this?" Revere wondered.

"They've faced these types of situations before." Jackhammer said. "And I'm sure they'll handle Hydra again here."

"I agree with both Lexar and Jackhammer." Kirito spoke up. "We've came all this way and we're very close. I'm not gonna abandon Asuna and the others over this."

Lexar stepped up. "I'm in the same boat too. We're too close to call it quits. And if we turn tail now, everything we've done will be for nothing."

Revere sighed, "I suppose you're right."

"Same here." Spade added. "Wherever Kirito and Lexar go, we all go..."

"Count on me and Yui," Strea smiled, "we're with Dad here!"

"And count me and Mace as well." Lisbeth chimed. "We're here for Kirito and Asuna.

"And Hydra's gonna regret messing with us," Mace pumped his fists. Everyone stood around them and agreed.

"We're not backing down." Rex claimed, while popping his knuckles.

"We didn't back down in SAO," Kureha said, "and we're not about to now!"

Lexar extended his hand out. Kirito sees it and placed his hand on top of Lexar's. Yui, Strea, and Leafa does the same. Soon, everyone placed their hands on top. Showing that they're in this mission together no matter the odds. They all looked to Revere and Jackhammer.

"Ah, what the heck." Jackhammer shrugged and placed his hand on top. Revere sighed and put his fist down on top, surprising many with his strength.

"We're all in this together.." Lexar said. "Whenever civilian or military..."

"I agree, uncle Lexar." Yui chirped. Lexar's cheeks went pink when the little AI child referred to him as 'uncle'.

Leafa giggled, "congrats, 'uncle'."

"Same for you too, Auntie Leafa.." Yui smiled.

"Hehe..." Kirito chuckled.

"A-auntie!?" Leafa exclaimed, to the guild's laughter.

"I guess we're a family as well as friends." Klein laughed.

"You said it, Klein." Agil agreed.

"SAO and ALO have brought us closer together than we would be otherwise," Sleek remarked.

"That it did.." Silica smiled. Afterwards, the guild pulled their hands away.

"Alright, we'll be logging out." Spade said.

"Okay. However, it's best that all of you check your front doors, back doors, and windows. Make sure that they're locked." Jack suggested.

"Lock your houses and apartments down like it's Fort Knox, people," Revere emphasized, "we don't need Hydra knocking at your doors."

"Will do, Revere." Kirito replied.

"We'll meet again later. Stay safe everyone." Lisbeth said as she opens the window and reaches for the logout button. Kirito and Leafa looked as everyone logged out.

"I'll see you later, Kirito." Lexar said as he and Kirito fist-bumped one another. Then he logs out. Leaving only Kirito, Leafa, Yui, Strea, Jackhammer, and Revere.

Revere radioed Helios. "We've established our base of operations. Awaiting further orders."

"Affirmative," Helios replied, "you and Jackhammer will have a security detail relieve you shortly. Return to base for debriefing and rest once they log in."

"Affirmative, Helios. Revere out." It was then that Kirito, Leafa, Yui, and Strea went up to him.

"Hey Revere," Leafa said.

"Yes?" Revere wondered why they had not logged out.

"You know, we hear you refer to your late brother by his name, Taylor," Kirito noted.

"And?" He asked.

"We just can't help but wonder about yours, Revere," Kirito said.

"Me too," Leafa agreed.

Revere paused for a moment. "It's... It's Christopher..." He then quickly added. "But just call me Chris."

"Okay, Chris. We'll see you later." Kirito smiled.

Chris nodded. "And you too... Kazuto. You and your sister eat well, sleep well, and stay safe."

"We will, Chris... we will..." Kirito turned to Yui and Strea. "Stay safe until we get back."

"We will, Daddy," Yui snuggled up on Strea's shoulder.

"We'll be here until you get back, dad." Strea added. She hugs Kirito and Leafa. Revere and Jackhammer looked on as a group of four soldiers in their avatars teleported in.

"Reporting for duty, Captain," one of the soldiers greeted Revere.

"Hold this position, sergeant," Revere ordered.

"I guess we'll be logging out." Leafa surmised, seeing the group of American soldiers logging in.

"Indeed, it is.." Kirito agreed. They both opened up the options menu and pressed the logout button and left Alfheim Online.

---

January 22nd, Kirigaya Residence ~ 4:00 am:

Kazuto wakes up from the NerveGear staring at the ceiling. He slowly sits up from the bed and removes the helmet. He saw the time and his eyes widened.

"4 am?" Kazuto was stunned by how the time flew by while in ALO. He groaned as the weariness started to set in. However, despite his weariness, he stood up from the bed and heads out into the hallway. The first thing he had to do was check the front door. He headed downstairs where the front door is in view. He checked the doorknob's locks, making sure they're turned all the way.

"Okay, the front door's secured." Kazuto muttered as he felt the doorknob stiffen in place. He headed to the back door and jiggles the handle. "The back door's secured. " Slowly, he checks the latches on all the windows. All of them are locked in place. He even went to check on his adopted mother, Midori. He cracked the door open into their bedroom to find her sound asleep. He smiled sadly.

It was then that Suguha came alongside him and looked in.

"It's me, Kazuto." Suguha whispered. "Don't worry, I've made sure my bedroom window's locked."

"Thank you," Kazuto expressed. As he closed the door, he faced Suguha earnestly for the first time since the whole of yesterday started.

"Again, I'm sorry for cutting you and mom out of my life.." He said. "And now we're in danger of Hydra..."

"I'm scared, Kazuto.." Sugu said before pulling him in a tight hug. "I'm very scared..." Kazuto hugged Suguha back as she shed tears. The only place that she feels strong in the virtual world is under the control of Hydra. The truth was too much for her to bear. "What if they really do find us and come for us?" Suguha sobbed.

"Don't worry, Sugu..." Kazuto comforted her. "We have the Howlers to look after us... And they're led by Steve Rogers. I'm sure that if he's here. The Avengers are not far behind..."

'I hope...' He thought as he hugged her tighter.

"But the Avengers disbanded after the last American Civil War, Kazuto," Suguha reminded, "and... and Hydra's... Hydra's here in Japan for... who knows how long!" Kazuto knew that she had a point. There's no telling how long Hydra was stationed in Japan. However, the only thing they had to do is to maintain their courage and have faith.

Suguha then laughed a bit sardonically. "Who knew that one afternoon could see so much change for us?"

"Agreed." Kazuto chuckled with her. It was then Suguha looked Kazuto in the eyes.

"M-Mind if I spend the night with you? I-It'll make me f-feel safer..."

Kirito nodded with a gentle smile. "We do have a lot to catch up on after all."

"Indeed, we do.." Suguha smiled timidly. They made their way to his bedroom and closed the door. Kazuto checks the latches on his bedroom window to double-check. The two siblings sat down; Kirito on his bed, and Suguha on the computer chair.

"Who knew that we'd stay on ALO 'til four?" Kazuto chuckled.

Suguha fought off a yawn as she laid back in the chair. "Mom must have been wondering about us... but maybe she was too tired."

"Probably..." Kazuto agreed. He tried to hold back a yawn, but failed.

"But... how do we explain this to her?" Suguha asked.

Kazuto thought of it for a moment. Logging on ALO with the NerveGear helmet was one thing. But getting involved with the Howler Platoon in a war against Hydra was another.

'Just like a... death game.' He thought. It was SAO all over again.

"We tell her," Kazuto suddenly answered.

"How would you think she'd react? Not to mention father?" Suguha asked.

"But if we're up against Hydra," Kazuto reasoned, "we can't leave them blind like this."

Sugu sighed. "You're right, Kazuto. I just hope they don't freak out too much..." She lamented.

"They probably will," Kazuto said solemnly, "but it's for their own protection..."

'As well as the protection of our friends.' He thought. 'I'm sure that Alex, Lisbeth, Silica, and the others would do the same with their families.'

"They might not believe us amd think we're crazy," Suguha wrapped her arms around herself.

"Probably... But they must know regardless." Kazuto stood up and hugged Sugu. "We'll get Asuna back from them and liberate Alfheim from Hydra and Nobuyuki," Kazuto resolved, "and I've got you and Lexar by my side."

"Me and Lexar?"

Kazuto nodded. "After all, the two of you did help encourage me to dive into ALO to rescue her."

"And if it helps, I think you two are cute together." He added a smirk. This causes Sugu's face to blush a cherry tomato color.

"Y-You're right.." She admitted. "When this is all over, let's bring Lexar and Asuna out on a double date... Something all four of us can enjoy together."

Kazuto smiles. "We'll do that, Sugu. We'll make new memories together. Whenever in ALO or in the real world."

Suguha smiled. Then her eyes drooped. "Mind if I just... rest here?" She slumped in the seat.

"You can if you want to..." Kazuto replied. "...But, wouldn't that leave you with a sore back?" He was referring to the desk chair she was sitting at.

"Just... not wanting... to sleep alone..."

The black-haired gamer boy shook his head at his black-haired cousin. He looked in his closet and got out a futon.

"That way, you won't be sore in the morning." Kazuto laid the futon on the floor neatly and next to the bed. He even gives her one of his pillows.

"Thank you..." Suguha dozed as she laid down and pulled the blanket over.

"Night, Sugu.." Kazuto whispered. He locked the door to his room and slept. He hoped to get some decent sleep considering the long day they had ahead with explaining the situation to Midori, and then meeting with Captain Chris and his military unit in ALO.

---

10:00 am:

Kazuto groaned and stirred in his bed. He got up and stretched and looked down to Suguha sleeping peacefully on the futon. He then checked his phone... He sees a text from Alex.

"Everything's good on my end." It reads. "What about you?"

"Safe and quiet," Kazuto replied. "Checking in with the gang," he added. He had to carefully word his texts, knowing of Hydra's likely monitoring across Japan.

"Good, be seeing you in a couple of hours at the usual visit.." Alex said. Kazuto knew he was referring to Asuna's hospital.

"Right," he replied, "and be careful."

"Will do... Same for you, too..." After that, the text chat ended. Suguha groaned as she got up. She saw that Kazuto was texting the others.

"Morning, Kazuto.." She rubbed her eyes and sat up. "Who you texting?"

"I'm checking on everyone else," Kazuto answered, "and Alex seems to be alright."

"Alex?" Suguha wondered.

"That's Lexar's real name." He explains.

"Oh," Suguha blushed.

"We'll be heading to Asuna's hospital in a couple of hours..." He added. "I'll take you to see Alex for the first time."

Suguha's eyes lit up. "R-Really?!"

"For real," Kazuto winked. This caused the Kirigaya girl to blush even more. Kirito then frowned as he realized two things... he still needed to warn his adopted parents somehow, and the possibility that Hydra could be around the hospital if Nobuyuki came to visit... His old sense of danger and awareness from SAO had returned. It was as real as ever.

"Think we should swing by where our parents work after the hospital?" He suggested.

"Sure... We'll stop by the insurance office.." Sugu replied. "... Although, they may be busy and such. You know how mom and dad are.."

"Yeah, but Hydra possibly threatening them is enough of a reason," Kazuto said, "I'd never forgive myself if something happened to them because of those guys."

"True.." She agreed. The two then brushed, got dressed in their respective rooms, and ate a quick breakfast. Kazuto approached the front door and peered out the window to see anyone outside. He saw no one and he hoped it'll stay that way.

"Ugh... I hate this feeling," Suguha groaned as she slung her back anxiously.

"Same here.." Kazuto agreed. "Okay, we're safe. We should get going..."

"I say we get the bikes..." Suguha suggested. "And we split off in different directions in case we're being watched.."

"Sugu, are you sure?" Kazuto gave her a look.

"I mean... we'll split after we make our visit to the hospital." Suguha said. "As long as we're with the crowd, they can't do anything. Right?"

"Maybe, but that's no guarantee," Kazuto was now worried as the older brother, "but maybe more people watching is better than none still."

"Agreed." Suguha reached into the hall close for their helmets. She hands the black one to Kazuto.

"You know these aren't bulletproof if they really shoot at us," Kazuto pointed out.

"True... But they'll keep our faces concealed for a time being.." She surmised. "It's better than nothing.."

Kazuto took the helmet with a sigh. "You know," he remarked, "you seem to be handling this much better than I expected."

"Oh trust me," Suguha admitted, "I'm still so scared that I can barely feel my toes and legs."

"It's okay." Kazuto hugged Sugu.

"And don't you go getting in trouble on me," Suguha said.

"I won't. I promise." He reassured her. The two siblings exited the house.

---

Asuna's hospital:

The Kirigaya siblings arrived at the hospital's parking lot and placed their bikes away.

"We're here.." Kazuto breathed as he removed the helmet. A blonde boy with green eyes approached; it was Alex.

"Hey Kazuto.." Alex greeted his friend. Alex then looked to the cute dark-haired girl next to his friend.

"Who's this?" Suguha studied the blonde boy.

"This is Alex Mitchell.." Kazuto introduced his American friend.

"Lexar?" Suguha asked.

"The one and only." Alex smiled before asking. "And I'm guessing that you're Leafa?"

Suguha nodded with a smile. "And i-it's Suguha here." She added, her face started to blush.

"Suguha... I love that name, it suits you.." Alex confessed. He held Sugu's hands. "It's nice to meet you at last."

"It's n-nice to m-meet you t-too.." Sugu stuttered while blushing madly. Kazuto was happy for his cousin sister despite his heartaches for Asuna. He managed to keep his spirits up by reassuring himself that he'll be with Asuna once they breach the World Tree and rescue her.

"Hey guys," Kazuto urged, "let's go see Asuna."

"Sure, let's go." Alex chimed as the three teens head on inside. They checked in with the front desk and boarded the elevator. Alex and Suguha looked to each other with blushes. It was hard to believe that they've met only two days ago. And they're starting to take likings to each other already.

"So..." Alex began. "Been playing VR long?"

"Yeah... though strangely I disliked it at first," Suguha remarked with a twirl of her hair. "But after a while, It grew on me. I've always wondered what it was like for you two.."

"It was something, isn't it?" He chuckled.

"That it was," Suguha giggled.

"And they're not even made by Anderson Tech." Alex added. "I remember reading about the next generation desktop/laptop computers and game consoles released back in 2017 and onward.."

"What do they have in the States, you know?" Suguha asked.

"They also have their own internet browser and the games made through websites and software... Even after the civil war, new game titles still being pumped through the company." He continued. The elevator reached the tenth floor.

"We're here." Alex gently took Sugu's hand as they stepped out of the elevator. They step into Asuna's room. Where Kazuto sat in the chair next to Asuna, who remains in a coma. Kazuto held Asuna's hand as he pursed his lips.

"Hey Asuna..." He said while stroking her hand. "It won't be much longer..."

"Soon... We'll reach the top of the World Tree and free you from your prison..." He added. He then thought of what he had learned about ALO, RECT, Hydra, and Sugou from Chris.

"It's gonna be a hard road for all of us.." He said. "But once we break through the top, you'll be free..." He rubbed her hand gently. "We've beaten Laughing Coffin and Kayaba before, and we'll beat Hydra together..." Alex and Suguha smiled at Kazuto's determination.

"And don't forget we won't be alone..." Alex added.

"It all finishes, today," Suguha pumps her fist.

"And you two will get your happily ever after.." Alex finishes. Suddenly the door opened. They all turned around to see who it was. The cold chill ran through their hearts when they saw who it was..

Sugou Nobuyuki. The head of RECT's Gaming Division... and Hydra's leader and war criminal. Furthermore... he brought company in the form of two men who looked like security.

'Bodyguards from Hydra..' Alex thought. The three felt defensive, positively afraid for themselves and Asuna. Despite their growing fears, they stood their ground. They're not gonna be intimated by Nobuyuki.

"Ah. Hello," Nobuyuki gave a fake smile.

The three teens are unsure how to respond to his fake greeting. It was then Alex spoke up. "Hello, Mr..."

"Nobuyuki... Sugou Nobuyuki.." He finishes. Nobuyuki moved into the room, letting his men flank him. Kazuto, Alex, and Suguha got good looks at the two guards. They wore dark uniforms with the RECT logos on their vests. They even had tactical vests and pistols holstered. The sight of the holstered pistols made them nervous. But they didn't show their fear in front of Nobuyuki.

"What's with the guards?" Kazuto asked with glared eyes.

"Oh... They're for protection.." Nobuyuki answered. However, Kazuto wasn't buying his lie, but manages to go along with it to avoid suspicion.

"Yeah," Lexar huffed, "a whole lot of 9mm for a civilian security force."

Nobuyuki chuckled. "Well, as the old saying goes. It's a tough neighborhood."

"What tough neighborhood would necessitate this?" Suguha dared to question aloud.

It was then Nobuyuki approached Suguha. Still sporting his fake smile. "Young lady, you probably haven't heard of the kidnapping that happened yesterday..."

"Kidnapping?" Suguha did not like the tone and sound of Sugou's voice.

"Correct. We've increased security for RECT to protect its employees." He continued while his eyes observed Suguha. "After all... We wouldn't want anything else to happen. Do we?"

Suguha gulped silently. There was an evil presence about Sugou. Kazuto and Alex glared at the man who's silently examining Suguha.

"What... what kidnapping?" Suguha asked.

"The kidnapping of one of our respected employers of RECT... Shouzou Yuuki." He shook his head while displaying a sad face. "It just happened right out of the blue."

Kazuto and Lexar's flinched, while Suguha expressed surprise. "Asuna's dad?"

"That's correct.." Nobuyuki replied. He looked to Asuna. "In light of the situation, I ordered my security to secure Mrs. Yuuki in an undisclosed location. That way, the Yuuki family will be safe under my protection until we locate her father's kidnappers." Alex pulled Suguha back gently. He had a feeling that the last statement was not true.

"Now now, no need to get defensive, Alex." Nobuyuki said in a smooth, oily voice. "It's only for our protection."

"We can do without it," Kazuto growled. He had to be careful, but there was no way he wanted to simply roll over for him.

"Whatever suits you and your friends, Kirigaya.." Nobuyuki shrugged. Alex hugged Sugu close to him. He just wanted Nobuyuki to go away. Kazuto remained beside Asuna while keeping an eye on Nobuyuki. If Asuna was not still connected, he would have carried her and rushed out of the hospital away from Nobuyuki and Hydra. Heck, if Colonel Rogers or Thor were here. It'll even the odds and make their escape possible.

However, he had to maintain his defiance against Sugou and his Hydra goons.

The stance between the teens and Hydra lasted for five minutes, even though it felt like it lasted for hours. It was then Nobuyuki sighs.

"Anyway, I was checking on my bride-to-be. But I can see she's in good hands of her friends from SAO."

"That she is," Kazuto muttered. He knew that Nobuyuki threaten him to stay away from both Asuna and her family. However, due to Sugu's and Alex's encouragement, he overcame that threat.

"Then I must return to RECT at once..." He was about to turn around and leave before he said. "Mind if I speak with you two?" He was referring to Alex and Suguha.

"F-For what purpose?" Sugu asked nervously.

"No need to worry. Just wanna a small chat before I leave." Nobuyuki put on a fake smile again. Kazuto shook his head 'no' to his friend and cousin sister.

"Oh, come now, Kazuto.." He said again. "Just wanna give them advice to be safe and such.." Sugou suddenly leaned in on the American and Kazuto's sister.

"It's best that you two stay out of trouble. After all, wouldn't want anything bad happen to you two..." He glanced at Sugu. "Especially you..." He pointed a finger at her chest. "Don't think I don't know about you and your brother's little adventures with the Americans." Sugu's eyes widen in realization. How does he know about her relation with Kazuto? Then again, he obvisouly been keeping tabs on them in ALO.

Alex backed himself and Sugu off. "How did you?"

"I have my ways." Nobuyuki smiled. "Now, I must tend to other affairs.." He turned around and left Asuna's room. The guards followed suit. Kazuto, Suguha, and Alex suddenly had pits in their stomachs. Suguha began to tremble, causing Alex to pull her into a comfort hug.

"He knows..."

"What are we gonna do?" Sugu shook in his arms.

"I don't know... But we're not abandoning Asuna... Not now..."

Kazuto nodded. He gently held his beloved girlfriend/wife as he texted a warning to his friends...

"Hydra knows, stay alert."

---

RECT Progress Inc HQ:

Delta One had infiltrated many strongholds in the past, and RECT was no different. But the revelation that Hydra controlled this place made the stakes much higher.

The woman in a black combat suit observes the facility of the company. Delta One then heard Fury in her earpiece.

"This is Black Widow. What's the status? Over?" The woman answered.

"Black Widow," Fury called, "we're tracking communications between Kirito and his friends... they've been compromised."

"In ALO or in the real world?" Black Widow asked.

"From what I could tell. Only in ALO." Fury replied. "But their addresses remained unknown to Hydra."

"That's still not good, though... it means Hydra is looking for them."

"Which is why we're putting you in charge of keeping tabs on Kirito and his friends." Fury continued. "Black Widow, it is imperative that you find the servers housing Alfheim Online and the minds of the hostages and shut down their cyber capabilities. That and protecting the SAO survivors is your top priority."

We're on it, sir. I've got Ronin and Hawkeye II scouting the place for any weaknesses."

"Please do, Howler 7-2 and 7-3 is on standby awaiting word from the Colonel. Don't keep them waiting."

"Will do. Black Widow out." The comm link line went dead after that. Black Widow looked down at the digital espionage security card she had been given.

"Here goes nothing." She muttered.

"Ronin, Hawkeye," she radioed, "I'm about to enter the dragon's den undercover. Respond."

"This is Ronin, hear you loud and clear." A male voice replied.

"This is Hawkeye." A feminine voice replied also. "We'll keep an eye on you from out here."

Natasha Romanov, aka Black Widow, assumed the persona of Natsumi Watanabe, complete with glasses, haired dyed brown, and a smart casual black dress. She walks through the main entrance of the company. So far, her disguise is working. The former Russian spy buzzed her pass against the security turnstile.

After a few minutes, Black Widow made her way to the company's mainframe where the ALO servers are located. The ALO servers were incredibly well-shielded by layers of shatter-resistant, bulletproof plexiglass, gates with anti-intruder lasers, and a striking number of security guards now sporting tactical vests and 9mm pistols.

'This is gonna be tougher than the others.' She thought. It was clear that Hydra was in full control, and now had no problem tightening security to rival military installations. She silently observes the mainframes while pretending to run inspections on them.

'I have to find a way to get into the World Tree and to Asuna Yuuki without drawing attention.' She sees one of the USB ports that she can hook up into the servers. She did a double-check of her surroundings to make sure none of the guards are watching her directly.

'Let's hope this works,' she thought as she pulled out headphones and an iPad-style of tablet. Black Widow nestled herself deep in the rows of servers, making sure to be out of sight while looking like a technician. She types in the digital keypad to decrypt the series of passwords before the ALO logo is displayed on the screen.

'Here we go...'

---

Inside the World Tree:

Asuna was receiving a briefing from former soldier George Connelly on some of the other military projects he was able to learn about from either hearsay or accessing some of Hydra's databases. Some information even came from Naomi, Fuji, and Yuki finding others inside RECT who were not compromised to Hydra. Still, it was a relatively small group compared to the larger employee body at headquarters, illustrating the thoroughness of Hydra infiltration into RECT.

"Interesting to hear." Asuna commented. "So Sugou is planning another Project Insight?"

"We believe so..." Connelly said. "However, they need the right parts to rebuilt those Helicarriers." They were looking over the technical drawings of a new Helicarrier. The repulsor engines are in the new designs as they were from the old Insight Helicarriers. And the menacing precision naval guns seemed to have been upgraded...

Asuna looked at the details of the naval guns and missile launchers. It said something about the naval rounds and missiles are tipped with Bavarium. "What's Bavarium supposed to be?"

"Some mineral from the mines located in some country in the Mediterranean called Medici." Connelly answered. "From what I've heard, it's powerful than uranium. Hydra managed to get their hands on the majority of them before the Medici government was overthrown."

"I've heard of the nation Medici, but you're saying that they had a partnership with Hydra?"

"Partnership?" George snorted, "Hydra controlled the entire government as their puppet to strip mine the whole nation into poverty."

"That was until the rebels overthrew the government, and the leader, Sebastiano Di Ravello, was killed." He added.

"But yet another country completely ruined by Hydra," Asuna lamented.

"Believe me, after the European Union collapsed, Hydra's been exploiting through the nations for partnership." He scoffed at the thought.

"The UN and EU were just pawns and pieces in Hydra's game to weaken numerous nations..." Asuna realized.

"Correct." George replied. "And the Sokovia Accords.. Well, there was part of the plan to be used for world domination. But of course, the second civil war changed that."

"But they did their part of weakening their enemies while distracting them from Hydra's rebirth in Japan... very cleaver," Asuna admitted. Sugou was egotistical, but when focused and given time to plan. He was very brilliant and diabolical.

"Indeed, it has.." George shook his head. "And everyone's struggling to get back on top ever since.." Asuna shook her head at the state of the world. However, she was quite concerned that Hydra Japan had the resources and means to even begin a redesign of the Insight Helicarriers.

Even after hearsay about American soldiers appearing in Alfheim. The Industrial Revolution update was set in place to hide the truth. Every piece of evidence about Hydra's existence in Japan only illustrated just how entrenched and powerful Hydra had become over the nation... and Asuna could not help but wonder what other small but advanced nations Hydra was firmly entrenched in. The Second Cold War between America and China was one thing. But the hidden existence of Hydra in Japan, not to mention the Templar of the Fourth Turning, was another.

Asuna then got a beep from Naomi. Interrupting her train of thoughts. She taps the bracelet.

"What is it, Naomi?" Asuna asked.

"I have a list of all the people I could determine are with us at corporate HQ for your eyes, Asuna," Naomi said, "and Fuji and Yuki have gathered more information on weapon and super soldier projects being conducted within Japan. Though there is no information on where they are being conducted."

"Thanks Naomi.." Asuna replied.

"Be careful, Asuna," Naomi warned, "Sugou is watching everyone else more closely now with those ex-STRIKE operatives. With the Industrial Revolution game update, the accelerated international launch of ALO, and the American infiltration, Hydra might have something big planned."

"Don't worry. I'll be careful." Asuna reassures her. "Just make sure to rally everyone together in a safe location... I want to be sure that we can be a united front in helping Kirito and the Americans oppose Hydra and liberate Father's business from them."

"Will do, mistress. Naomi out.." The call ended, and Asuna turns off the bracelet.

"Anyway, back to the Helicarriers," Asuna turned back to George, "could we estimate how many Hydra Japan could build?"

"Well mistress, so far, they're planning to build three of them." George answers. "But I'm pretty sure they'll make more."

"And they will be satellite and drone-guided to track their targets?" Asuna shuddered as she asked that question.

"Yes and no," George told her, "they can sat-link for easier targeting, but these new carrier have important differences from the Insight models."

"None of them will have the drone features. Hydra's learned that after Captain America replaced the targeting guidance circuits which reprogramed them to destroy each other.." He added.

"And these carriers have stealth features..." George pointed to the hull shape. "Making them completely invisible and untraceable by any means of surveillance."

"Hydra is building an aerial navy..." Asuna gasped.

"And its air force." George shows Asuna the technical drawings of the new Quinjets. Asuna looks at the details of the new Quinjets. She reads that it'll have advanced armor platings, repulsor jet engines that'll rival fighter jets in the air force in both speed and armament. The forward auto cannons will be made from repulsor technology and the missiles and bombs will be tipped with bavarium warheads.

The second aircraft appeared to be a supped-up Japanese F-15J. Asuna reads the details of the supped-up F-15J. These were fighter-bombers with enhanced maneuverability and interception speed over the current F-15Js in the JASDF. While the main model was land-based, there was also a special carrier model for the new Helicarriers.

'Great... even our air force is infiltrated,' Asuna had to wonder if anywhere in Japan was safe at all. She also wondered how long the clean-up will take once Hydra's exposed. With almost all the Japanese Self-Defense Force being infiltrated, along with the government, and RECT. It will be such a serious mess.

She had to lean back in her seat. "It feels like we have two countries in Japan." She rubbed her forehead from the information overload.

"Are you okay?" George asked out of care for the young Yuuki.

"I'm fine.." Asuna groaned. "It's just so much to take in at once..."

"I thought Kirito, and I had a hard life surviving SAO," she confided, "but now I come back to find that my family and our livelihoods are hijacked by a totalitarian shadow government organization, and our lives are that much more complicated and perilous."

"I don't know how you managed to hold it all in, Asuna." George said to her. "But you seem to be very strong than most of us here. Up until now... many of us didn't know that much about you."

Asuna sighed before replying. "It was very hard for me in the past few months. Being trapped in that birdcage with no means for escape. And during those times, Sugou made attempts to woo me. And when I found out the truth about Hydra..." She paused. "I took sides with him. That way, I can learn much about Hydra in Japan, and buy myself enough time for Kirito to rescue me.."

"I don't know how someone so young can put up with such things," George said in admiration, "and I saw a lot of youths back in California who thought they could change the world... before being mowed down by US Army guns."

Asuna looked at George. Between the two of them, they could see the pain in each other's eyes. "I just hate to see you and others dragged into another war after the last one destroyed my life," George sighed.

"I do hope that things will get better.." She lamented.

"I have to hope... to keep us going," Asuna finished.

Suddenly, her bracelet started beeping again. Asuna checks it, but sees that it's an unknown caller.

She answered... "Hello?"

"Asuna Yuuki, I presume," an older feminine voice came in Japanese.

"Who is this?" Asuna asked.

"Call me Delta One... I'm a friend of certain elements that want to see a resolution to the... ALO question."

"Such as what's been going on in here?" Asuna questioned.

"Correct."

"Okay, I'll tell you everything that's been going on..." She then gives the full details of Sugou Nobuyuki, the rebuilt Hydra stationed in Japan. And what they're planning with the 299 trapped players from SAO.

"That's quite an operation..." Delta One remarked.

"Tell me about it." Asuna replied. "I've been trapped here for two months since SAO. And been trying to find my way out. Now I'm stuck with a fiance who turns out to be a Hydra leader and has had people killed under my father's roof to cover up things." George came up and placed his hand on her shoulder.

"We've got people moving in to try and liberate you and the others from the servers, but they might be slightly delayed due to unexpected circumstances," Delta One said.

"You mean Revere and Jackhammer having bounties on their heads... and being exposed as two US Army officers?" Asuna answered back.

"Correct." Delta One sounded a bit surprised. "But how did you know all that?"

"I've been reading updates from the World Tree, which doubles as Hydra's base in ALO." Asuna explains. "And been seeing footages of what transpired down there... And... I think Nobuyuki has an American connection sending him information."

"We've been trying to find out who it is, that way, the American mole can be exposed and removed."

"Any luck?" Delta One asked.

"Naomi's monitoring the calls in RECT. She'll give me the updates when she could. All we know is that it is someone who has access to the US government."

It was then Asuna asks Delta One. "Where are you exactly?"

"I can't say exactly, but I'm close enough."

"Fair enough. I'll do whatever I can in here until I'm rescued, along with the 299 players. I'd find a way to log out, but Nobuyuki would get suspicious. So I have to stay here for a while longer."

"I see... very well," Delta One agreed.

"Will you contact me again in the future?" Asuna asks.

"Depending... but there is one favor to ask of you..."

"Sure. Anything you want, Delta One..."

"If you can, do what you have to do to disrupt Hydra's security operations... we want to give Revere and Jackhammer an easier time to access the World Tree, and we certainly don't want them to threaten Kirito and his band's family. One of my men just observed him and his goons accosting your beloved and his friends at your hospital."

"I-I'll do whatever I can." Asuna stammered. The revelation of Nobuyuki and two of his bodyguards meeting Kirito and his friends at her hospital room nearly had her heart stop beating.

"Hey," Delta One responded in reassurance... "We'll keep an eye on them, don't worry."

"Please do," Asuna pleaded, "I don't want anyone else dying."

"Just remain focus on sabotaging Hydra's security operations where you at. That'll buy your beloved and his friends enough time to mount a counter-attack." Delta One said. "We'll get you out of there as soon as possible."

"Thank you..." Asuna said, allowing a bit of a smile.

"No problem." Delta One replied. "Anyway, gotta cut our chat soon. But I'll contact you when I get a chance." As the call ended, Asuna stood up.

"Let's get to work, George." She said. This time with determination.

"You don't mean..." George sounded both hopeful and nervous at the same time.

"That's right." Asuna smiled. "We're gonna buy our friends more time."

---

Asuna's hospital:

Kirito, Alex and Suguha had been shaken from their close encounter with Nobuyuki. They were just exiting the hospital when Kirito's phone rang.

Kazuto looks at it. It was an unknown number. He was almost afraid to answer it... but given the uncertainty and danger surrounding him and his friends... he had few options. He answers the phone.

"H-Hello?"

"Hello." A voice replied. "Is this Kazuto Kirigaya?

"Y-Yes... Who is this?" Kazuto stammered.

"We're on a secure line, so don't you worry." The voice was familiar.

"Director Fury?" Kazuto was shocked.

"Correct." Fury replied. "We're aware that Nobuyuki's aware of your presence in ALO."

"And if any of you plan to go to school or do any sort of outings, I strongly recommend against it."

Kazuto still had not gotten over his shock. "How did-"

"Kirigaya, there are Hydra posing as police out there."

"T-They are?" Kazuto stammered. His eyes darted around the hospital's parking lot to see any patrol car. Nothing...

"You are clear at the moment, but the rest of them may be seeking out your friends. And we've learned from intelligence that a group of Hydra may be scouting out where your parents are."

The January cold air got even more cold as he heard those words. Hydra's staking out their parents' workplace.

"I've got an agent to intercept them and protect your parents, but in the meantime, you must get to safety as soon as possible. Howler Platoon is going to launch their attack in ALO very soon."

Kazuto manages to reply. "G-Got it, we're heading home now."

"Good... and given how the situation is going... it's best that you and your friends sit this out. Hydra is becoming very aggressive, and it may soon turn very ugly. Fury out." The line went dead.

"So, what's happening?" Alex whispered.

Kazuto lowered his phone. "Hydra is going after our friends... and my mom and dad."

"Mom... D-Dad?" Suguha's voice quivered.

"Fury said he's got an agent out there to protect them, but told us to head home and stay out of the fight." Kazuto made clear in his tone that he did not like the last part.

"By staying out of the fight. Which one does he mean specifically?" Alex asked.

"He told us not to join the Howlers in the offensive..." Kazuto gritted his teeth.

"In ALO?"

Kazuto nodded his head. Suguha on the other hand, looked like she was hyperventilating. Alex pulls Suguha in a comfort hug.

"Alex... why is this happening?" Suguha sobbed, "first ALO, and now they want my mom and dad!"

He remained silent while Sugu sobbed into his shoulder. He started their mission to rescue Asuna and the other 299 players two days ago. And now, not only Hydra's hunting them down in the real world, they're being told to stay out of the fight.

"What are we gonna do?" She cried, clutching onto Alex's shirt.

"We're going back in ALO." Alex said softly.

"Agreed..." Kazuto grit his teeth, "this is war now... and we are going to help the Howlers win, like it or not!"

Alex let out a small smile at Kazuto's determination. He's not giving up, and neither is Alex or his friends. But then Alex remembered something... While he was getting ready this morning, he noted that his father and older brother haven't been home. He didn't take notice of it at first as he assumed they're stuck at the naval base.

'I hope Dad and Jon are safe...'

"We should get home as soon as possible." Alex suggested.

"Agreed." Kazuto sighed. He's not gonna sit this one out. Not after what they've been through. Sugou's threats may be intended to scare them from logging on. But instead, it only spurred them on. Especially since he was eyeing Suguha.

"Also, I'm coming home with the two of you." Alex added. "I've convinced my mom to spend the night at your place. That way, we'll log on together."

"Thanks Alex," Suguha shivered, "I really don't feel safe going to school or Kendo right now."

"As long as I'm here, you don't need to feel scared." He reassured her and hugs her even closer. Suguha put her hands to his chest as she hummed. She breathed into Alex's shoulder and felt relaxed as he begins stroking her hair gently.

"We will win this war together..." He finished softly.

Afterwards, Kazuto, Alex, and Suguha got on their bikes and head on home while keeping an eye out for Hydra patrols.