Chapter Seven: Revelation
"Alice?" the Dark God repeated in shock as he witnessed his vanguard destroyed by a lone knight.
But that fact did not disturb him. Not a bit. Vecta smirked with great ecstasy, if not childish excitement, as he finally saw the singular goal he was after.
"Alicia…"
This time…this time, I have to capture her no matter what! I have to seize the Lightcube where this girl's Fluctlight is stored and savor it to my heart's content.
"All troops! Prepare to move!" The Dark Emperor ordered aloud, his face twisting in his imagined pleasure. "The Pugilist Guild is to take the lead, followed by the Dark Knights, and the supply corps. Head south! Capture that knight! Capture the Priestess of Light unscathed!"
That the Dark Territory had always had the initiative, and that they had expected the war to be an offensive one meant that they never fortified their own border. And so, when the Human Empire Army raid unit emerged from the ravine, victorious but cautious, they faced a flat and totally exposed terrain.
As per Bercouli's command, the unit turned south instantly to avoid open conflict with the bulk of the dark forces, which was situated to the north of their own positions. The reduced size of the Human Empire Army allowed them the advantage of speed and maneuverability, both of which Bercouli utilized to great success.
Despite Vecta's mobilization order, it took the Dark Army at least thrice the time necessary compared to their targets to head south. And to Bercouli's great amusement, he could detect more than a dozen rows between the Dark Knights and the Pugilists regarding their pace and organization.
Hmm…that's what you get for never being a unified army I guess. I'd expected better of the Dark Knights… I must say I am surprised that Shasta isn't controlling his people like…
Bercouli's mouth drew to a flat line. Some kind of realization hit him and he decided to just keep up with his advance. As expected, Bercouli's elite forces, in a now well-practiced formation, marched south without fail. Even if the dark forces speed up later, they would have deployed properly by then. With this part of his worries solved for now, the commander then searched for something he knew required his attention more than anything.
Hoshigami, Bercouli's flying dragon alighted heavily upon a small hill that overlooked the army's march. But the location mattered to the commander due to some other reason. Next to him was another knight, it was Alice Synthesis Thirty.
"Little one…I…" Bercouli began.
"Lord Bercouli." Alice stated as emotionless as possible. "As planned, the Dark Mages have been eliminated, we should proceed with the march south."
"The march south is proceeding perfectly, if we fly ahead we would leave our army unprotected."
Alice relented and let go of Amayori's reins. Then remained silent.
"Little one…what we need to talk about are things that did not go as planned."
Alice stiffened slightly, but her muteness persisted.
"About Eldrie, I am sorry. I have seen my fair share of battle, and a loss is a loss. It never gets easier. I can only imagine how it must feel to lose your own student."
The blonde knight then gritted her teeth. "It wasn't supposed to go like this."
"I know."
"I made sure Eldrie stayed back…I wanted him to stay back because I thought at least him, of all Integrity Knights, should live through the war and return to his past life." She then turned to face Bercouli, venomous. "Then why? Why did he have to die?! Was it not our duty to keep him safe? Was it not our responsibility to take the brunt of the attack?"
Bercouli listened intently as Alice continued her laments.
"And yet…and yet, we are to continue the mission. I…deserted the Order the past six months because I wanted nothing but to keep Kirito safe. And now, here we are, only just the beginning of this expedition, and we have already lost an Integrity Knight, something that has not happened for centuries. It was I that planned this mission… How can I convince myself that I made the right choice to agree to bring Kirito along? How can I know that Kirito will be safe? But on the other hand, how can I turn back? Surely this is what Kirito and you too would want! Is it not? There is no other way for us to win…"
"Little one, this is war." Bercouli stated harshly as he looked Alice right in her eyes. "My experience tells me that no strategy can survive the moment they enter the battlefield. Your plan was as well-made as possible, and Eldrie died a hero. No one here should be blamed. Wars are not forgiving; all we can do is to make sure we do our fair bit. And I swear, little one, I will do everything in my power to see that we win this war. You and that boy…you will definitely live."
Alice's eyes were closed momentarily as she exhaled.
"Uncle…I…" Her tone losing some anger as she spoke again. "I'm sorry…If that's how it sounded…I didn't mean to question you or…Please forgive me –"
"It's forgiven." Bercouli interrupted as he shot her a wry smile. "I get it. Truly. Your anger reflects only your resolve. It is nothing to be ashamed of."
Nodding silently in understanding, Alice turned her attention back to the procession of the imperial army. In just a few more minutes, when their forces have passed through the terrain, they would prepare the ambush.
"Hmmm…" Bercouli remarked with some worry as he observed an approaching dust storm. "The Dark God Vecta sure seems obsessed with you. He's coming after you with his entire army."
"I suppose we should be happy about that." Alice answered as she too turned towards the direction of the dark forces. "It's better than being ignored, at least."
"About how we are going to proceed," Bercouli added, "the Raid Unit and I will keep leading the enemies away and reduce their numbers until they reach our trap further south. That sounds right to you?"
"Indeed." Alice replied after reassessing their situation. "We've already annihilated half of the invading forces, which leaves only the enemy's main force: the Dark Knights and the Pugilists. If we can wear them down to a certain point and then defeat the Dark God Vecta, it's highly likely that they'd be open to a truce."
Bercouli looked away thoughtfully for a moment.
Just theoretically…we might end this war with an even better footing if things do go this well. The Dark Territory worships power blindly, if we defeat their god, they might have to entertain the idea of having someone from the Human Empire take their throne…At least that is what Her Holiness would be aiming for. But in our case, peace being our greatest objective, we need someone to negotiate with when the time comes.
"The question is, who will be leading the enemy when that happens?" Bercouli asked rhetorically. "If only that Shasta kid were still alive."
"Uncle, you believe the Dark General is already dead?" Alice asked, surprised and bemused. She had heard rumors about that man; seeing that he had survived multiple duels with Bercouli, he had to be quite a powerful foe. Whatever could have killed him was something Alice wondered.
"Yeah. I can't feel his presence in the main enemy force." He scowled slightly. "I did have a feeling that maybe…"
Before he finished, a thunder blew past the two knights. Bercouli turned to the source of that noise, and saw Knight Renly dropping from his dragon and landing perfectly behind him.
"Allow me to report, Lord Knight Commander." The young knight declared with a salutation. "The chosen site of our planned ambush due south will work fine."
"All right. Thanks for checking." Bercouli said calmly. "Have the troops prepared to move. Your dragon must be exhausted. Be sure to give it plenty of food and water."
"Yes sir!"
Renly then rushed back to his dragon before flying south again.
"Uncle?" Alice inquired as she witnessed a rare mixture of playfulness and consideration on her commander's face.
"Oh, it's just that…" Bercouli rubbed his chin pensively. "Robbing people of their memories and freezing their life to create Integrity Knights isn't exactly nice. I agree that the Synthesis Ritual shouldn't be allowed. But it'll be a shame not to have young fellows like Renly joining the Order anymore, you know?"
"I don't believe that Her Holiness' ritual is the only way to become an Integrity Knight, Uncle." Alice remarked gently. "Even if none of us is left standing, our souls…our purpose will be inherited by those who come after us. There will be a time when all of us are gone, but a next generation of Integrity Knights, who are made up of normal citizens of the Empire, can take on our duty."
"Well, I wouldn't oppose a system that like that either." Bercouli nodded. "But it is definitely way too early for you to be thinking about being replaced by a next generation, little one. You still have a long way to go –"
A tremendous noise again interrupted Bercouli. The two knights then turned sharply towards the source and on the open plain, there was a rowdy group made up of no less than a hundred men approaching with great speed.
"Something is coming." Alice announced.
"That has to be the Pugilists." Bercouli scoffed. "They're going to be a handful. Even if it's just their initial shock troops. They'll gladly take injuries from a bare fist, but they absolutely refuse to be slashed with a sword."
"What? Refuse?" Alice asked incredulously.
"As those Pugilists train and train, they beat the idea 'a blade is nothing to fear' into their heads." Bercouli remarked with certain scorn "That becomes their power – their Incarnation – and they literally harden their physical bodies to deflect any blade." He then demonstrated by directing his fist against an open palm. "In any case, we'll need to prepare to defend against them."
Obviously, Bercouli had had some bad blood with those outlandish warriors, but Alice did not venture to ask. The two observed in silence for another moment, dozens of strategies no doubt flashing through their minds as the enemies closed the distance.
"I shall go."
The mute tension was broken by a voice so cold, so stripped of emotion, one would be forgiven for mistaking it for that of the late Pontifex. Only the absence of Quinella's usual haughtiness at the end of that sentence admitted the fact that the Pontifex was, after all, no longer among the living. But indeed, that sudden proclamation produced the same effect as a splash of ice cold water on the Commander and his apprentice. The two nearly gasped as they turned their attention to their rear – the fair-skinned female knight, Sheyta, standing as unmoving as a statue; though from experience Bercouli knew this slender sculpture would shake off any sense of idleness the moment he gave an order.
And so, he gave the order.
By Alice's unofficial account, there were three types of Integrity Knights: those who were masters in Sword Skills, those who competed with Sacred Arts, and those who were called the composite – the rare few who excelled in both talents. The likes of Bercouli, Fanatio and Alice no doubt belonged to the latter. Still, Alice could see Sheyta, despite being amongst the first category, more than made up for the lack of Sacred Arts in her stunning Sword Skills.
The distance separating Knight Sheyta and her two fellow knights prevented whatever conversation exchanged between her and the Pugilists Champion from being overheard. But it mattered little, as the negotiation, if it had been one, was short. The first challenger the Pugilists sent against Sheyta was cut down with brutal ease. Sheyta barely seemed bothered as she sliced the hand that approached her in halves without so much as moving an inch away from where she stood.
She's thinking about Her Holiness…
Alice commented in her mind as she observed Sheyta giving her ridiculously slim blade a pondering glance. An Integrity Knight's Divine Object tended to share a strong bond with its master, but none of those weapons originated from anywhere other than the Pontifex herself, and the ritual of the Pontifex granting a knight his or her Divine Object was something the knights took pride in – as a display of their prowess and devotion recognized by the high pontiff, and by extent, the gods. Alice remembered vividly the moment her Osmanthus Sword was presented to her, a moment of supreme accomplishment, even now. And as tradition dictated, accompanying the weapon was something akin to a prophesy by the Pontifex.
"You crave for something, don't you, Alice?" The Pontifex chuckled as she saw Alice's stunned expressions. "Is service to my church not great enough an honor to you? No…I'm not angry, and that's not at all what you are thinking, is it? No…my Alice…you will find out sooner or later, what is it that you seek, and when that happens, I am certain, my gift to you – this magnificent sword – will be there with you…"
Alice could only wonder what Sheyta was told when she received her own Divine Object years before herself. But she shook off that thought as the sudden velocity of Knight Sheyta caught her by surprise. Having evaded the first attempt to block her momentum – the Champion himself – Sheyta then started systematically cut down the unprepared Pugilists one by one. In mere seconds, the erstwhile statue had been replaced by a shining, blood-thirsty tornado; any endeavor to stop her shared much the same fate – shredded and macerated. The non-stop screams on the field were complimented by the flashes of Sheyta's Black Lily Sword and the crimson that soon began to overflow the rocky ground.
"What a savage style of fighting…" Alice whispered in equal awe and uneasiness. "That said, for how violent her attacks are, I'm not detecting a murderous impulse from Lady Sheyta. Not even hostility."
"Put it out of your mind." Bercouli could only reply coldly, though displaying no less appreciation for Sheyta's skills as his apprentice. "I've known her for over a hundred years, and I still have no idea what she's thinking. Not a clue." He then paused, checking the progress of the rest of his army's march southward and said again. "She'll get the job done if we leave her to it. The enemy's main force will catch up soon. We have to get ready for their attack."
"Yes, sir!"
Alice responded with her habitual deference, but lingered momentarily to witness the battle down on the plains just a while longer. Before she started to her feet, the Champion of the Pugilists was engulfed in flame born of Incarnation and shot directly towards Sheyta.
The female knight stopped him just barely, but events happened so quickly, and the conflagrations wrought from Incarnation and Arts by both warriors soon burned so blindingly, Alice failed to see the exact details until moments later she saw them both standing across each other again, neither completely unscathed.
The two conversed again, though like before, it was only the most transient of respite as the Champion seemed to have been infuriated by something and prepared for a renewed assault.
The hundreds behind him chanted rhythmically in a manner similar to a war dance. Flames, blinding and sizzling, once more covered the Champion's fists and he reciprocated with a display of his well-trained martial arts. Whenever his armies bellowed, his burning fists would strike the air, from left to right. That lasted for about a whole minute until the chants stopped without warning, and then, the Champion charged.
Sheyta struck. Her piercing blade sliced through the air before her only to miss the target. All the built up energy to appear as though he was striking with his fists had been a deception – the Champion lowered his upper body to land a powerful kick upon Sheyta's armored boot, turning it to shards instantly. The metallic scraps hummed through the air while they were blown aside. He did not stop there. Another kick was launched and Sheyta managed to stop it with her blade, only to witness the Champion unleashing another trick by finally punching directly upon her armored chest plate.
An enormous explosion followed and the Champion himself was forced back. At that point, Alice retreated, not wanting her presence to cause any distraction to Sheyta, who no doubt was about to emerge from the dispersing black smoke to take on the Champion once more.
Running towards Bercouli's direction, her thoughts remained around the ongoing duel between her fellow knight and the enemy leader.
That man…he's the kind that, with whose every step the ground trembles, quite literally. No doubt someone of great importance in the Dark Territory…Something about them just perplexes me, almost like they've both been craving a battle as destructive as this one. Lady Sheyta…I never had much contact with her, even if one considers her usual muteness. But somehow, something about her aura…reminds me of myself.
The question about what the Pontifex must have said to her resurfaced, and Alice herself contemplated the meaning of her own prophesy.
I don't know… I can only imagine what it has been like, being alone and completely without a heart for an entire century, but then again, who am I to judge? And this is war…who knows if any of us can really leave the Dark Territory alive.
It's dark outside…
Ronye pondered to herself, feeling restless as she peeked through the opened door of Kirito's carriage. The thick forest surrounding the Human Empire Army supply corps, and no doubt whatever that was inside and beyond the foliage gave her no small anxiety. So reduced was their army at this point, as Renly took half the army away for an ambush slightly north of their position, even trainees like Tiese and herself were put on guard duty; even so, it was not really an option to decline as they had volunteered for this expedition. Building up her courage, Ronye stole a glance from her motionless mentor and reminded herself why she was even there in the first place. She took a deep breath and marched out of the door.
It began as uneventfully as imaginable. The supply corps was placed in a large clearing amongst the many dark, lifeless trees, so as a guard, Ronye would have to march along the line demarcating their camps from the density. Ronye prayed to the three goddesses that they should be undisturbed that night, but just a few moments after she had started her watch, she knew her prayers were not to be answered.
Nothing was within sight, but the lack of wind should have guaranteed also the lack of noises in the undergrowth nearby. Not to mention the nagging feeling that something was watching her. That presence grew and grew until Ronye was certain she was to either strike first or to die first.
Using a technique passed down by Kirito back in the Academy, Ronye unsheathed her sword and swung it backwards so quickly it produced just the effect she aimed for – that she should hear a cold metal slicing through the air and whatever was ambushing her gasping instead of her own throat cut.
"Woah, baby, how'd you spot me?"
Ronye turned around to see a man clad in black full-body armor grinning at her. Not having an idea that the enemy before her was Vassago, the captain of the Dark Emperor's guard himself, Ronye concluded only that it was one of the Dark Knight scouts, alone and having snuck here to spy. Whoever he was, though, he seemed the kind, as described by Kirito, that was addicted to warfare, someone who enjoyed the sight of blood and carnage. It was his eyes – focused but animated. She pointed her sword straight at her would-be assassin and answered with some fury.
"My mentor taught me not to rely on my eyes, but to feel with my entire being."
"Mentor… you say?"
Despite having just salvaged her own life, Ronye was wise enough to know she alone stood next to no chance were a real fight to begin now.
"Enemy attack! Enemy attack!"
Her cry for help worked. Just moments later, Tiese and some thirty soldiers rushed from the camps towards the two. Taking good use of the temporary shock, Ronye quickly disengaged and joined her fellow soldiers to form a defensive line.
Shock certainly was on that Vassago's face, seeing that his advantage in stealth had been removed, but that shock was fleeting at best. Not a second passed before a grin again was painted on his face.
Vassago raised his hand and ordered. "Time for work, you bastards!"
Within seconds, first a few, then a few hundred of Dark Knights emerged from the shadows of the forest.
The situation now reversed. The Human Empire Army was outnumbered and outflanked. If they form lines with the same number of soldiers, the Dark Knights can muster at least five lines, more than enough to destroy them. And their sheer number almost certainly guaranteed also the likelihood of the Dark Knights simply surround and cut them down from every direction.
Ronye shook as the full implication of their predicament dawned on her.
Kirito…what do we do now…
"The enemy is behind us?" Renly asked incredulously as a scout reported his recent discovery.
This is bad…if they burn our supplies, it will immobilize the entire army. Not to mention, those three are behind us. I should call for backup, but if we move the raid unit now, it will give away our strategy…No…our ambush is already compromised, isn't it? There's no way we could fight on both sides given how small our force is. Then shouldn't we all move south?
Before Renly could further his thoughts, a voice broke his concentration, "Who would've thought they figured out our plan to head south and place soldiers here, eh?"
"Lord Commander!" Renly turned towards the voice and exclaimed as he saw Bercouli and Alice standing right behind him.
Bercouli gave a little nod before saying, "Renly, give the order to retreat. Little one, rush over to the Supply Corps to help. I'll hold off the enemy coming from the north."
"Yes, sir!" Renly answered immediately as he saluted.
"You'll hold them off?" Alice questioned, "Uncle, there are close to five thousand of the pugilists. Besides, what forces we have is split between here and the camp, now that the Dark Knights have slipped between our two groups we are effectively caught in a pincer movement!"
"Well, I'll figure something out." Bercouli replied coolly.
"And Lady Sheyta? If the Pugilist shock troops have rejoined their main force then where would she be now?"
"She'll be fine. She's experienced enough to know when to retreat. I'd wager she's on her way to the camp right now. Now, get going, quickly!"
"Uncle…good luck!" Alice said worriedly before hastily dashing towards the Supply Corps.
As he witnessed the soldiers too leaving, his expressions turned solemn. After all, the thousands-strong Pugilists could easily surround him, with enough time, even the mighty Knight Commander would be struck down.
Meanwhile, the situation over at the Supply Corps' camp was going from bad to worse.
As Alice rushed through the small stretch of forest separating the former ambush zone from the Supply Corps, she could hear already the clashes between the imperial army and Dark Knights.
They don't have long…the Dark Knights far outnumber them, and are much more well-trained…
After a night of ceaseless violence, the constant fear for her lover and only just recently the loss of her student, Alice was on the verge of despair. And now, another piece of hopelessness in the heart of the land of darkness might have contributed to the surge of black thoughts in her head. As desperation began to take over Alice, something entirely different caught her eyes.
A soft, alabaster light appeared suddenly in the skies. So incandescent was it, one could only just realize there was a feminine figure in the center. No…she was the source of such light and power.
Before Alice spent any more time marveling at the view, that figure, amid what appeared as divine light moved. With but a raised hand, a gigantic aurora stretched across the skies, and beneath that stunning light, Alice could hear from afar the ground cracking.
That ground…is that not where the Supply Corps is at?! And Kirito!
That fear propelled Alice even faster than before, utilizing all her might in running towards her target.
A sudden flood of screaming coming from that direction seemed to have confirmed her fear. But before the knight could even begin to imagine how that figure could manipulate such force, the said figure moved again. This time, aiming towards where Bercouli surely would be staying to repel the Pugilists.
Oh no…no, no, no…
Too late. Alice's fear was again realized as another stretch of breathtaking aurora extended, and as before, earsplitting sounds of terraforming and earth breaking could be heard.
As Alice looked on, that glowing figure began to descend towards where the Supply Corps and Kirito were supposed to be. The blonde knight grinded her teeth in extreme rage as she drew her sword, now only a minute's distance away.
That woman…I swear to Stacia and all the gods I will turn her to dusts!
Out of the somber and near-lifeless forest, finally arrived Alice where the imperial army was stationed.
It was a great relief for her as she realized whoever casted that terraforming power did not destroy their forces. Instead, a bottomless chasm appeared right next to the troops. But Alice had not the time to appreciate the full effect of such Sacred Art.
For all I know, the army was narrowly saved, and I still haven't the slightest clue how another of those earth splitting powers might have affected Uncle's front.
"Where?" Alice roared at the nearest guard as her inner brutal Integrity Knight emerged.
The terrified soldier pointed at a carriage some distance away and Alice immediately rushed towards the direction.
That is Kirito's! What in Stacia's name could that intruder be doing?! If she but touches a piece of his hair…
And as the knight pondered, she saw a woman exiting the carriage.
That's her!
Unable to control her fear and rage any longer, Alice charged with the intention to kill, "Enhanced armament!"
An earsplitting metallic clank then shocked the Supply Corps camp as that woman was just in time to parry Alice's sword away with her own. But Alice quickly continued her assault, changing her pattern to two quick slashes. Narrowly blocking her attack, the woman then thrusted to push Alice away. In a fleeting moment, the two women were just equal in their strength as they locked blades.
Alice stared at the woman with such wrath she could hardly comprehend, but she could at last see clearly how she really looked.
She is strong, stronger than most I'd fought before…But whoever she is, if she dares touch Kirito, I will not forgive!
While the two struggled to overpower one another, two young voices nearby briefly gained their attention.
"Lady Knight, please stop!"
"Lady Alice, she's not our enemy, she just saved our lives!"
Kirito's students, Tiese and Ronye, attempted to resolve the conflict, and the woman locking blades with Alice did seem to be surprised. But by what, Alice could not understand and frankly, being as distracted, she did not quite hear clearly what they were saying.
"Who are you?" Alice demanded without lowering her weapon, "Why did you approach Kirito?"
"Why, you ask?" the woman replied with equal fury, "Because Kirito belongs to me!"
"What are you saying, you savage?!"
With her patience long run out, Alice retreated her sword lightly before using the opportunity to parry that woman's sword away.
However, Alice had to quickly move her weapon to a blocking position as her opponent wasted no time in thrusting forward. Having defended successfully, Alice launched her own attack, slashing and pushing that woman back. That woman parried, and stabbed Alice's sword again. In a clean move, she thrusted forth once more, only to have Alice return the favor.
In their anger and concentration, both failed to notice another figure nearing in.
The sounds of swords clashing and capes flowing fluidly through the air terrified the young apprentices nearby, but all they could do was witness as Alice was again cutting away her opponent's weapon. That woman reacted with unparalleled speed, and her sword sprang close to Alice, who evaded the strike by jumping away and retaliating with an oberhaw as she landed. Surprised, the woman leapt backwards, but charged once more as she regained her feet.
Before a decisive strike could be dealt by either woman; Alice's slash or the mysterious figure's thrust, Bercouli appeared suddenly between the two and pushed their weapons aside with ease.
Both women backed down and distanced themselves from each other.
"Why did you interrupt me?" Alice demanded, bitterness clear in her tone. "Uncle, I believe this woman is most likely an enemy spy."
"Well…I don't think so," Bercouli replied nonchalantly, "You see, I was just about to meet my untimely demise in battle," he then turned towards the woman Alice was fighting, "it was this young lady who saved my life."
"I saw it with my own eyes," Bercouli placed his hand on Alice's pauldron as he recalled:
While he was about to face five thousand of Dark Territory's toughest forces, already prepared, if not slightly excited for a glorious death, a sudden brightness lit up the skies.
Lifting his vision, he saw the most beautiful light ever in his life, matched perhaps only by the Arts the Pontifex had cast before. In another moment, the ground in front of him cracked, rocks, small and large alike, were blown up before a giant abyss separated the impending dark forces from himself.
"A rainbow of light came down from the heavens," Bercouli explained, "and the earth split open, about a hundred Mels wide. That was a bit more than even those Pugilists can jump, so they ended up standing flustered on the other side. We were this close to being wiped out in one fell swoop, and this young lady saved us. That's an undeniable fact."
"Then you're saying that this person isn't an enemy spy," Alice questioned as she pointed at her former opponent, "nor an immoral impostor dressed as our beloved goddess, but rather the real Lady Stacia?"
Whoever that woman was, she did not have time enough to respond before Bercouli chuckled, "That's definitely not what I'm saying. If this young lady were an actual god, then she'd be even more fear-inspiring than the Pontifex, wouldn't she? She'd hurl someone rude enough to attack her on sight to the depths of the earth."
Sighing slightly at the commander's explanation, Alice lowered her head in defeat and sheathed her sword reluctantly.
"As you say, I'm not a god." The woman confessed as she too sheathed her weapon, "My name is Asuna, I'm human, like all of you. But I do have some knowledge to share about the situation you're in right now."
The two women whose intentions for the other moments ago were purely murderous stared at one another uneasily as they awaited Bercouli's response, who after spending a moment rubbing his chin in consideration said:
"The rest of your story should be heard by the other knights and guards as well. Let's talk about this over tea."
"Yes…I suppose so." Alice agreed after some thoughts.
"Right, now that that's settled…" Bercouli said casually before turning to Tiese and Ronye, "You young ladies over there. Could you get us some hot tea? And some liquor for me? You should listen in too."
"Yes sir!" the pair said in unison, saluting Bercouli as he started to walk away.
The young girls then hurriedly left the scene to do their duties, leaving the two armed and undoubtedly dangerous women on their own.
"I want to make one thing clear." Alice then declared in no uncertain terms, "From now on, you are not to enter his carriage without my permission. I say that as the one in charge of Kirito's safety."
"Look who's talking!" Asuna retorted displeasingly, "Stop referring to my Kirito in such a familiar way!"
Your Kirito? What non-sense!
Alice scoffed rather indignantly as she crossed her arms, "Did you say something?"
Surprised, Asuna's mouth gaped open for a while before saying defiantly, "No, nothing!"
The two glared daggers at each for another moment, before both walked off to join Bercouli's tea party of a conference as they attempted to understand the full picture.
Emperor Vecta…
Asuna mused after she had settled in a tent given by Bercouli, who insisted she be treated as a guest of honor. Embarrassingly and a bit reluctantly, Asuna accepted. As the conference was over, and Asuna's purpose in Underworld became clear, which was to help fend off the dark forces, Bercouli dismissed everyone.
In any case, Asuna paced back and forth in the tent, heart buried in worries.
If we are to protect this world, we have to let Alice go to the Real World, only now it can't be done until we've defeated those who have also invaded the Ocean Turtle…Alice…just who are you…? And how are you and Kirito related?
Asuna's heart fluttered at the thought of her lover, but her face grew gloomy as she recalled that brief visit she had paid him earlier:
Dual-Wielder Kirito, Liberator of Aincrad, winner of Bullet and Bullet…all these titles seemed unfitting to the one who now sat disabled, broodingly in the dark.
Asuna's eyes widened in great grief and surprise.
"Kirito!"
The young man reacted with a tremble, lifted his head and moaned with pain. But not a single word escaped.
Tears streamed down from both their faces as Asuna ran forward to envelop Kirito in an embrace. The black-haired knight continued his struggle, but Asuna said with a voice as broken as his body:
"Kirito, please, it's alright. You've been through enough, just stay with me, please."
Despite the tears in her eyes, Asuna observed quite clearly that Kirito's hands had failed to lock with hers, which further tore her heart to shreds. She knew the Kirito that had conquered her heart in Aincrad would surely return such gestures, even if his mind was away…
Asuna sighed as tears began forming in her eyes again. She covered herself with her arms as she returned from that painful memory.
Kirito…I'm so sorry…so sorry that we've been apart for so long…Just how much have I missed…just how much have you changed…?
At the same time, another woman was also buried deep in thought.
Real World… The world Kirito comes from…
Alice wondered as she returned to her tent where she had earlier entrusted Kirito in. Stepping inside, Alice smiled instinctively as she finally saw Kirito again. Him being safe and sound was enough a reward for the war-torn knight.
After quickly cleaning and changing herself to the nightgown, Alice lay next to Kirito on the bed and rested her head on his shoulder as she closed her eyes in thoughts.
"Kirito…I'm really tired. It was barely some hours ago that we parted ways, but so much…violence and pain have transpired…I fear now, more than ever, that we really will be done part. If only I could hear your voice now…if only you would tell me it's okay…please, Kirito, I need you to wake up…I need…"
The knight remained silent. Alice then opened her eyes wide; realizing she was getting carried away.
"I'm sorry, Kirito, I'm doing it again, aren't I?" Alice shook her head in shame. "Even though I had promised you I wouldn't…" Wishing to change topics, she went on.
"I assume she's already visited you…before I returned. I guess I was being too…paranoid, and agitated. Still, I can see why the two of you seem to have been companions before. She is strong, and I respect that. And it does seem like she is a worthy swordswoman. Did you two…"
Before Alice could continue, footsteps outside her tent drew her attention and she quickly got up.
Unsurprisingly, Asuna was wandering around the tents and as she looked around, a voice called out.
"I figured you would come."
Asuna looked forward, and saw that voice belonging to none other than the knight who held custody of Kirito.
Alice sighed more than once as she crossed her arms, evidently having multiple thoughts in her mind at the moment, but she then faced Asuna and said:
"I'm sorry."
"What…?"
"I…was under great stress at the moment, but that was no excuse. I apologize for my rude behavior and the unannounced attack earlier. It is unmistakable to me now, that you are no enemy. In fact, your alacrity to assist us even after my unwelcoming conduct marks you as a person generous and chivalrous, worthy of praise and honor." Alice stated as she lowered her head.
Surprised, Asuna remained mute for several moments, before smiling at the blonde knight and saying, "Pay it no mind, Alice. I may not understand your situation entirely, but I, too, have experienced times where emotions could run rampant. It happens to the best of us!"
The two women again shared a silent moment, only this time far more pleasant than the one earlier. Alice then stepped closer, and offered:
"Let's make a deal. I'll let you see Kirito, and I'll tell you everything I know. In return, you need to tell me everything you know about Kirito as well."
"That's fine." Asuna replied lightheartedly, apparently more than excited for the prospect, "But it's a really long story. It might take more than one night."
Slightly intimidated by her tone, Alice's eyes widened before inquiring, "How long have you spent with Kirito?"
"Let's see…" Asuna muttered half to herself as she counted with her fingers, "I fought as his partner for two years. And then we dated for a year and a half, during which, we lived together for two weeks." Smiling contently as she finished.
"I fought by his side for a full night." Alice quickly responded, albeit with a bit of panic now that Asuna seemed to be the senior in knowing the black-haired knight, "After that, I cared for him day and night for six months while living under the same roof!" The hint of pride during the last part unmistakable as Alice put her hands on her hips.
"Is that so?" Asuna slightly yelped as Alice, too, seemed to share an unexpectedly close relationship with Kirito.
"Umm…" A voice drew both women's attention as they looked to the right of the tent, where Ronye was peeking from, "Um, I…cleaned Kirito's room for about two months, and I also learned sword techniques from him, not to mention him treating me to honey pies more than once! Compared to you two, I was with him for a much shorter time, but, um, I'd like to trade information too!"
Alice and Asuna looked dumbfounded for a second, before staring again at each other. The two then shared a small chuckle before Asuna saying warmly, "Sure, you're one of us then, Ronye!"
"If you are exchanging information, would you allow me to take part as well?"
Another voice from behind Asuna spoke.
"Oh, I think I saw you at the meeting just now." Asuna remarked inquiringly.
"I am Norlangarth Imperial Knight Sortiliena Serlut." The woman replied calmly, "I was going to wait until the battle was over, but as I, too, have a close relationship with Kirito; I couldn't help myself from coming here."
Alice sighed.
Of course he would have more close relationships with other women…
"And what kind of relationship would that be, Chief Guard Serlut?"
"If you like, please call me simply Liena, Lady Knight." Serlut replied, "At the Norlangarth Imperial Swordcraft Academy, Kirito served as my page for a full year. In addition, I believe I was able to pass on some of my skills to him."
Asuna looked towards Alice, who gave a small chuckle and nodded, and then Asuna proceeded. "Then you must also have plenty of information yourself! Please join us."
As the group then entered the tent together, Asuna paused slightly in her track, and smiled ever so gently.
"What's wrong?" Alice asked curiously.
Not letting her eyes off of Kirito, who now slept soundly in bed, Asuna answered, "Dual-wielder Kirito, that's how we call him over there."
Alice let out a small exclamation of astonishment as she looked back and forth between Kirito's swords and Asuna. In another moment, she sat down on a comfy pillow just next to the knight at the center of attention and announced with a smile, "Well then, let's start there, shan't we?"
Without a doubt, Asuna's tale was the most awe-inspiring, at least the parts where the other girls weren't scared out of their minds. Everything started when Kirito and Asuna, alongside ten thousand others were trapped in the world of the floating castle – Aincrad, as it was called; the women native to the Underworld finally understood why Kirito had dubbed his unique sword techniques the "Aincrad Style"
Liena, Ronye and even Alice, but perhaps especially Alice, was struck dumb as they heard how Kirito was once a reticent and cold person. At the beginning of their journey, Asuna knew he was not evil at heart, only distant. But honestly, that man could be so irritating all the same. From bickering with her endlessly during meetings to insulting her with amusement every now and then, Asuna was certain Kirito was a hard man to deal with. Unnoticed by everyone else, Alice slightly snickered knowing she was not the only one he had called an idiot. But as the two spent time fighting and even saving each other's lives on multiple occasions, Asuna found herself attracted to the brooding, but good-natured knight, who despite his countless heroic acts, had categorically refused the title of hero.
Unfortunately, tales of heroes were never written too differently from tragedies. Asuna knew the story of the Moonlit Black Cat well, as Kirito had repeatedly named it the deepest wound in his heart. She also knew it would not be a pleasant story to share among friends, but knowing it was one they should know, Asuna told them all the same.
"I guess now we know why Kirito had reservations to share his past…" Alice said as she shuddered, clearly not inspired by the knight's gruesome history. While she had been fortunate enough to not ever been in Kirito's shoes, the night earlier as she witnessed thousands of deaths was something that would remain a scar for the rest of her life. "To be that powerless…to see your friends murdered one after another, but with nothing you could do…"
The rest of the group stayed silent for some moments as they all tried to comprehend that information. Eventually, Asuna felt somewhat guilty for bringing forth the somber mood and decided to tell them something else.
That log cabin, that quiet and friendly town and that brief but ever lovely vacation on the 22nd floor…Asuna could go on for hours speaking of their romance in Aincrad. Notwithstanding all the hardships they had endured, or even his incessant cynicism, Kirito grew to be capable of emotions, earning Asuna's heart in the process. Naturally, at the mention of their relationship, all the other girls stared at Asuna with varying amount of jealousy. Asuna nervously dismissed it with a chuckle, but her face fell sordid as she turned towards the man sleeping peacefully nearby.
"I don't know…" Asuna muttered, again half to herself, "it's not just his body, or even his broken soul…I was excited to see Kirito again, I love him, and there isn't anything I wouldn't do to be with him. But he's…he's changed. To what degree and why, I don't know…but when I looked into his eyes, I knew for sure Underworld has changed him…"
Liena then placed her hands on Asuna's shoulders, earning her gaze as she expounded, "Worry not, Lady Asuna. The Kirito that I know is every bit as chivalrous as he is in the Real World. If anything, I sometimes think I learned more from him than he did from me. I cannot ascertain how his feelings may have changed during his stay here, but I can guarantee at least that the good-hearted man you'd fallen for only grew stronger here."
"Thank you…" Asuna said softly as she teared up, "really, thank you…"
As Asuna finished really only parts of her story, Alice, now burning with curiosity, asked her how their journey continued after Kirito's liberation of Aincrad.
Asuna scratched her head a bit, knowing the following part was a hybrid of embarrassment and confusion. After a small cough, and some silent consideration, she began once more; first with her imprisonment in Alfheim, to the discovery of the experiments conducted there, which, without a doubt, disgusted her companions to the core, until finally her being rescued by Kirito.
"That scum…" Asuna muttered spitefully, her tone altering to a rare rage as she remembered the crimes of Sugou, or Oberon the self-proclaimed Fairy King. Not only did that man tormented her, nearly destroying her innocence, but also bringing Kirito so much pain…
The group casted her a worrisome look, not quite able to respond to that story. However, before Asuna could speak up again, Ronye interrupted.
"Um…I know I'm probably jumping queue, but something similar…happened to me too."
"How…how do you mean?" Asuna asked, not at all feeling comfortable to hear the young girl sharing her experiences.
"Lady Alice," Ronye spoke as she eyed her, "that would be the unwise move Tiese and I had committed…You see, the two of us were really lucky, to have Kirito and Eugeo as our mentors, but some weren't as fortunate. A friend of ours, Frenica, was chosen as valet for an Elite Disciple, Humbert. He was a very proud…no, conceited nobleman. He just couldn't wrap his head around the idea that lesser noble like me or even peasants like Kirito and Eugeo could be his equals. Till this day, I'm not sure if he did it to vent out his frustration, or did it as a trick, or both…but…"
"Did what?" Asuna inquired with concern.
"He…um…used his authorities as mentor, to, shall we say …make Frenica do something that is just unacceptable for a female student."
Asuna gasped in horror, but stayed silent as Ronye went on,
"We asked Kirito and Eugeo to intervene, and they did. Honesty, them confronting Humbert and the other upper-class noble directly was already more than what we could ask for…but Humbert didn't stop his abuses. In fact, he got worse… Tiese and I, being the stupid girls we were, decided we could oppose them all by ourselves. Of course, they used some loopholes in the Taboo Index as ground and judged that we affronted their authority. They…tied us up and we were this close to…being done the same as Oberon nearly did to you, Lady Asuna…
"But just before our innocence was tarnished, Eugeo and Kirito delivered us from that punishment. As a result, they were themselves deemed as criminals…then it really is Lady Alice's territory."
"I see…" Asuna quietly muttered, feeling a mixture of sympathy and worry.
Alice, however, showed undisguised anger as she grinded her teeth, on one hand, realizing how much misfortune had befallen the young girl, and on the other hand, feeling guilty that she had once blindly defended the atrocities of the noble.
"Still, it goes to show just how far the young man is ready to go for others." Liena added, "During our time together, Kirito had been more than willing to walk the extra mile for me. By all accounts, he had no need to show me his special Aincrad Style moves, but he did it as a present for me. And he certainly did not have to spend nearly all his free time in growing and caring those flowers for me, but he did it all the same."
"Flowers?" Alice asked.
Liena shot her a sheepish smile before explaining how they first met in the Academy and her being absolutely impressed by the young man's skills and resolution. But Kirito was not only a dutiful student; he gradually became a close friend as well. Eventually, he surprised her by presenting her flowers which she loved but were unavailable in the Norlangarth Empire.
"There is not a day goes by that I don't cherish this memory." Liena said with a smile. "Simply unforgettable…"
Alice was then wordless. Not that she did not wish to share the experiences she had with Kirito, only that she was drowning in her own memories.
Alice took a peek at Kirito, though not very discreetly as the other women now noticed her muteness. She looked back at the past six months, beginning from the moment she took charge of him at the Academy, to as recently as she had confessed her love.
Alice gave a rueful smile but otherwise refrained from speaking.
"Are you alright, Lady Alice?" Liena interjected.
"Oh, um, of course, I was just thinking how right you are." Alice stammered, upon seeing all her companions cocking an eyebrow, she explained, "Unforgettable, that is. Every moment I have spent with him, it feels…well, unforgettable."
With a chuckle, Alice began her own tale.
"It was unforgettable, when he, as a criminal to be executed, could treat his captor with such graciousness; it was unforgettable, when he, barely armed at all, could beat my student and superior alike; it was unforgettable, when he, despite being insulted and harmed, would respect my position…
"But it was all the more unforgettable, when he had saved me countless times…Not only when I was about to fall to my death did he save my life, nor was it when the minions had attacked me and I was at my most fragile. But he had saved me from slavery to Her Holiness just as he had saved me from my own asininity…"
The rest of the women looked at her with wide eyes, catching a glimpse of the frail side they had not realized the Integrity Knight had had.
"It wasn't always beautiful of course, these past few months especially have not been generous. Almost like paying the price for treason, the capital was no longer a place we could stay. I tried… I really tried, but every day, every time I passed through the corridors of the Central Cathedral I could hear it. Some rumors here or there, a bit of murmurs or whatever, there were always people who saw nothing but an enemy in Kirito. Nuns, priests, even some of my fellow Integrity Knights…there was this once when I told the kitchen staff I was going to bring Kirito his dinner their sudden change in expression just scared me. I couldn't be sure. All I could think was 'what if they try to poison him?' It was that night I decided to flee.
"Then there was the Rulid Village." Alice sighed, pausing just a little to recollect. "I suppose the downside of being so scared is that you get desperate, desperate enough to act without reason. Somehow, I just bet it all on being sheltered by the Rulid Village – a place that I didn't even know existed until Kirito told me my story. When I got there, I was kicked out before I could even plead my case, by my own blood father no less. So the first few nights we were quite literally homeless. I wasn't welcome in Rulid, and Kirito and I had to resort to camping just south of the village in the forest. I suppose I have Uncle to thank for keep telling us how important engineering was to battle. It was with what little knowledge in woodwork he taught me that I managed to put together a small little cabin. But by the gods that was terrible. The wrong kind of bolts meant the whole frame nearly collapsed when I started working on the roof, and I always have to worry about the rain or the wind. The first attempt almost killed the two of us one windy night. I had some concerns about the creaking sounds, but buried the worries thinking I was simply being paranoid. As it happened, paranoia would have been a lifesaver because the south side of the wall just broke down without warning. I had to shelter Kirito in Amayori's cave for the time being and started working on the entire thing again. This time, I swallowed my pride and went to Selka for help. After that, at least we had a secure roof over our heads…Well, I still had some never-ending housework to do, cleaning, scrubbing, washing and all that, but you'd be surprised how it all became natural after some time. And if you will believe it, somehow, in the middle of one scorching sunny day in the Sixth month, it actually snowed and I had to cover up our vegetables in the garden."
Alice noticed now her companions' jaws dropped and the incredulity displayed on their faces. But she merely dismissed it with a mischievous grin and went on. "And rumors fly around, you know? Mostly that a sinful woman is being punished by the church to take care of her disabled husband in the hinterlands, who himself has also committed a terrible sacrilege."
Though that wouldn't be too far a stretch, I suppose. Taking care of my husband, huh? At least in that sense they're not all that wrong. It was definitely a surprise to find out domestic duties turned out to be more fulfilling than military ones. Perhaps I have proven Her Holiness wrong in one other matter, instead of an Integrity Knight, maybe a housewife is a far more suitable Calling for me. After all, I've already figured out Kirito's favorite meals, and I dare say there aren't many who can compete with me when it comes to cooking, not to mention our home, which is definitely something I can now take pride in. Besides, I was told regular citizens marry at our age. Instead of…being weighed down by my armors and sword, maybe an apron and kitchen knife do suit me better. I kept denying all this time, but now that I've all but understood myself and…confessed, just makes what I want clearer.
The glow on Alice's cheeks was quite visible as she tried to suppress a genuine smile, fearing Asuna and the rest should see her embarrassment.
Every once in a while, Alice indulged herself in her imaginations. The most recurrent fantasy so far was definitely that her duties as an Integrity Knight were non-existent and the threats from the Dark Territory nothing but children's tales. Perhaps then, that little farm of theirs could expand, and they could spend the rest of their lives in tranquility. Though she would insist Kirito kept his weapons. After all, the mere memory of Kirito the Swordsman made her blush. Otherwise, getting to travel around the Empire's diverse landscapes, meeting all different kinds of people was also something she wanted to do with Kirito.
But her smile faltered. Asuna's tale gave her worldview no small shock. What was she to think of their relationship? If Kirito was as in love with Asuna as she had claimed, did that mean she had no chance? But Asuna, surprisingly, confessed that Kirito had become quite a different man now, so maybe she ought not to despair? Alice shook her head. She refused to let that extinguish her feelings. Nevertheless, the darker parts of their stay in Rulid returned to her.
At that point, Alice had been faithfully taking care of Kirito for an entire month. All this time, she never complained, never neglected any of her duties in guarding and nursing her companion. And one evening, having just spent the entire day repairing a faulty part of the chimney and ruining her magnificent blonde hair before running around the outskirts of Rulid helping out the villagers in exchange for some meager compensation, she returned home a hollow shell of her strong body. Her exhaustion was compounded by the mere thought of not being there for him. At some point, she sweated in anxiety knowing how vulnerable he was, being alone in that wooden cabin. Sure, if any unwelcome guests were to visit, Amayori would always be there. "But what if…" That was the kind of question that tormented her every second she was away. But destitute as they were, she just had to work once in a while, felling trees mostly, and every time, she ran back home just to shorten that heart wrenching fear, even if just by minutes. Kirito was, of course, no more welcoming than any other day. His eyes, dull and inert, turned slightly towards her, but that was it. No "welcome home" or "I'm glad to see you" He was simply there. Alice did not mind though, she tried her very best to put up a smile and cheer him up.
"Kirito, how about we have our dinner outside for tonight, some cool air may do us both some good, right?"
A petite table was set up just outside their door and Alice made sure Kirito's wheelchair was firmly in place, not wanting the incident of the wheels sliding away to occur again. A few minutes later, she brought out a pot of delicious hot food; vegetable, meat and whatnot, evidently the very manifestation of her hard labor.
"Say Kirito…" Alice asked timidly. "How do you like the soup? I tried a different recipe today, it should have a stronger flavor and I…"
There was no answer.
Alice turned her attention to the landscape before them. There were still remnants of Solus' light, turning the nearby lake a sheet of molten gold. "This view is perfect, isn't it? I timed it just right so we can enjoy it at dinner. Do you think…"
The eyes that she excitedly looked into were darker than the approaching night.
Again, no answer.
Alice dropped her spoon on the table suddenly, pinching the bridge of her nose. She exhaled with effort as she closed her eyes. "Say Kirito, why won't you just answer me?"
No answer, of course.
"Kirito, please, I beg you, just wake up, I need to hear your voice."
No answer.
"Please, Kirito, just one word? Just say something, anything?"
No.
"IN STACIA'S NAME WILL YOU PLEASE JUST SAY ONE DAMN WORD?"
Kirito remained silent.
Why was Kirito even disabled?
That one question filled her raging but desperate mind.
Kirito…
Then it all came back to her – the Cathedral, the Sword Golem, the Cardinal and the unkillable Pontifex.
Oh Kirito…how could I have…
The guilt of her outburst buckled her knees and she knelt down before Kirito. Sobbing, the ashamed young maiden threw her arms atop his laps and cried inaudibly, not having the courage to look directly in his eyes again.
The motionless man before her was nothing less than a hero. He could have killed every knight in his path, but he spared them, even took risks to preserve the enemies that had tried to take his head. He had protected essentially the entire Empire from the Pontifex's tyranny. He lost his brother. He lost his right hand. He saved her thrice. He sacrificed himself for her and was reduced to such a pathetic state. He was only thus disabled because of her. And yet…
And yet, I resented it. I resented the man who saved me, sacrificed himself for me, and I resented myself for all this…
The tears in her eyes then dropped; her frustration manifesting in the simplest way possible.
"Please…"
She whispered weakly.
Please forgive me…
But she could not bring herself to even ask that. Surely, if she had been the one to suffer like Kirito had, she would not forgive.
Alice gasped.
A warmth just caressed her hands. Quickly looking up, she saw Kirito's remaining hand, although shaking and straining, slowly caressed her own. His eyes were still dark, and there were no expressions on his face. But there he was.
I forgive you.
He did not say that, but Alice knew he meant to. Then she heard even more, remembered even more. It was never just saving her life that she was grateful for, it was her heart and soul.
"Thank you…Kirito…truly, thank you. I swear, I won't…do that again. I'll be with you for as long as you need. Not because you need it, but because I want to."
Thinking it was long enough she had stayed silent, Alice spoke up once more to Asuna and the other women. She did not dwell on the details of that incident, but she mentioned just how much she owed him, how grateful she was – about saving her life, about making her realize something.
"You see…I never even knew who I was, what I was supposed to be. Until I've met Kirito, I have always had this void. Her Holiness forced a manufactured heart on me and had shackled me with her authority, but he was different…He granted me the opportunity…the power and the freedom to make and know my own heart. If there's anything that separates mankind from chaotic nature, it has to be order and submission that Her Holiness had represented. But there's also more! Man is not without mind, we are not wood, we are not stones, and we certainly are not puppets! Somehow, someway, we all loved Her Holiness, for even Uncle recognized the Human Empire would crumble without her. But we still are not puppets! We shouldn't be manipulated like dolls. Keeping order in the Empire is our sacred duty, but the freedom, the choices to know our own heart is important too. Kirito…he gave me that, either in battle or in peace, he gave me that choice… and so, how can I ever forget the man who had saved my life, my freedom and my soul…"
There, Alice's speech broke as she was breathless. But after exhaling calmly, she steeled herself and continued confidently.
"And yes…my soul and my heart. Of the six months I spent living with Kirito, I have questioned myself over and over what it was that I felt for him. What could I have felt…no, what can I be feeling for the man who had not only saved me in more ways than one, but also the one who had refused to abandon me despite all my faults. I cannot be sure if my feelings are reciprocated, but at the end of the road, after all that we've been through, I know it now, what I have in my heart, is love."
Alice then turned towards the goddess-like woman next to her and asked quietly, "Asuna…I know the two of you have a special relationship…but if you would, please don't think less of me for what my heart feels."
Asuna had remained silent while Alice was declaring her feelings.
Oh Kirito…I guess some things just don't change, do they? Of all the things that could have made you different, how did I not see this?
She stared at the blonde knight softly, after a while, Asuna gave her a gentle smile. "You know…you certainly wouldn't be the first to feel that way. I understand.
"Just as Kirito has changed you so very much, I now know what has changed him so much also…"
"Change him?" Alice asked.
"So it would seem," Asuna sighed. "I've been with Kirito for a very long time now. It's true that he is the most selfless person I've ever known, it's also true that I've never seen him stop helping people, and it's all the more true that Kirito would never tolerate injustice as long as he can do something about it. But Alice…what he's done for this world, what he's done for you…It's not something he would do for anyone either…right now, I can't promise you anything. So why don't we just let him decide when he wakes up?"
Alice's eyes lit up, and with an appreciative smile, she repeated, "When he wakes up."
She then walked over to Asuna coolly and extended her hands.
"There's much we can still talk about, and there's certainly much more we need each other's help, so, why don't we work together as friends from now on?"
With a smile, she took Alice's hands gladly and shook it.
"As friends."
Author's notes
Sorry again for the delay, but it's getting busier of late, and well, c'est la vie, right? I hope you enjoyed it, it was quite an emotional rollercoaster for me, especially writing the part where Alice reflects on their earlier stay in Rulid. I've always wanted to explore more the relationship between Alice and Asuna, and to make the (to my mind) two most important women in Kirito's life friends. Do tell me what you think of Alice's history and the way her relationship with Kirito progressed during that time in Rulid. I'll see you next time.
Playlist:
"a council of war"
"Sheyta Synthesis Twelve"
"Iskahn"
"luminous sword in the sky"
"I'm waiting for you"
"painful days"