SAO: in your time.
Hello welcome to another chapter and side project right now another SAO story about Kazuto time traveling back in time to stop as many deaths as possible… enjoy.
With that enjoy this new chapter.
Start chapter:
(4th floor)
The blackswordsman and Asuna made there way up the stairs to the forth floor he noticed the modified iconography on the door ajacent to that of was there in his previous lifetime…
Things should be the same.
"Kirito what is it?" Asuna asked
"Kayaba's information still pulling through."
"What should we expect from the floor?" Asuna asked him.
"The most water filled level so far. Water is dangerous in this game fortunately this floor has many ways to make water navigation easier from single to two person canoes. And water floaties."
Asuna looked at Kirito as he opened the door
He looked back to see Asuna looking back at him
"What?" He asked
"Nothing…I'm just wondering how much information Kayaba gave you anyway?"
The black swordsmen sighed "almost the entire game… a few things here and there are different but it's mostly the same." He said as he walked in.
As they entered the floor the blackswordsman was unsurprised that his information was still accurate seeing as the only way for it to change is for Kayaba or the AI system to change something at random which makes no sense for that to happen.
Asuna looked at him strangely
"What?" He asked her
"I'm just trying to understand why Kayaba would do such a thing to allow you such a advantage?
The black swordsmen shrugged
"I don't know maybe he expected me to speed run it. But with many strategies used involve taking damage to get an extra hit and the physics engine being so natural you can't cheese early bosses without obscured level above them. There's almost no point." He said
"Kinda like you?" Asuna asked
However Kirito shook his head "no I mean like being level 45-50 facing Illfang, I'm over level for this floor but not like that." He said
'Although with how quickly I'm leveling i just might be soon.' He thought
It was true while most RPG's make it so The players ex increased slower the more levels you get for The Black swordsman it seemed the opposite. He didn't know why maybe it's the time travel or maybe Kayaba really did give him the edge and he didn't notice it before.
"What should we do?" Asuna asked as they looked at the first River.
"We have to options either use the fruit from the trees to make pool floaties and float down the river.
Or we can cut down the tree and make a two person gondola which we can sell in the village for a full boat."
He turned to her "the choice is up to you but just know if we take the gondala we're most likely going to be stuck to each other for the entire floor." He warned
"I thought i told you before I'm not gonna leave you." Asuna said
The blackswordsman winced "everyone says that." He muttered
Asuna tilted her head to his back "huh?"
He looked back at her "I'll hold you too it." He said as he pulled out an ax from his inventory
"I thought you used one handed longsword?" Asuna said
"Yeah but this was a mob drop and axes do Better than swords in this environment. Besides I doubt you want to snap your rapier trying to cut down a tree." He said
Asuna nodded as Kirito took a large swing and a large chuck of the tree split and several swings later the tree fell.
Kirito now holding the ax closer to the head straddled the tree and his already obtained woodcutter skills from cutting down the tree he hollowed out the tree to make a simple gondola with oar.
And with that they pushed it into the water asuna was about to hop in when she found an arm had reached out to her
Kirito was helping her in the boat.
Asuna smiled "my gentleman." She said
Asuna saw Kirito brush it off but she knew. The soul of Kirito still lingered in the blackswordsman somewhere
She just had to claw it out.
On the gondola the black swordsman was in deep thought
It was just natural for him to reach out and help Asuna in the boat.
Even when he didn't want to.
He focused on getting them to the main city while the rest of the Clearers were focusing on the boats.
It had become standard practice at this point as Kirito and Asuna had been in every raid boss which meant they would be the first to explore the floors.
Asuna was surprised that much of the assult team agreed to it but they did.
As such they were the first ones to reach the city of Rovila which was much like the city of Venice Italy where gondalas were used as the main transportation in the city.
Fortunately the duo made there own so they were set and didn't have to buy or rent one.
It was there they found themselves at the Teleport Gate plaza, on the way there Asuna was told by Kirito the gondola services you can hire here would only operate within the city. So it was fortuitous they made their own boat now.
After activating the Teleport Gate, the two retired to a small inn at the edge of the plaza, where The black swordsman sent a quick message to Argo that the teleport place in Rovia was open, not waiting for a reply before falling asleep.
After three hours of sleep, Kirito joined Asuna for an early dinner at the food carts in the plaza. Just as the two were about to start their meal, they were approached by Argo who requested Kirito information about all the quest NPC's in the city and There confirmed they were all still there on a map scroll. Upon getting payment from the info broker Kirito examined the quest NPCs on the map and told her it all seemed accurate Argo nodded and went to take the map away but the Blackswordsman stopped her focusing on one spot,
He noted to Argo that the quest was essential in conquering the 4th Floor, The Black swordsman and Asuna traveled to the northwestern quadrant of Rovia, where they found the NPC quest giver Romolo in a large old building there. As the boy pondered on the required question to initiate the quest due to the NPC's unresponsiveness to the usual ones, his attention was drawn to a half-rusted, long square nail on the floor by Asuna. This allowed him to deduce that the old man was a shipwright, whom they could request to build a gondola, thus they began the Shipwright of Yore quest.
For the first part of the quest, Kirito and Asuna journeyed to the forest southeast of Rovia to gather bear fat. Due to the girl's insistence on collecting only the highest quality versions of the quest materials, the pair trekked through the woods for three hours in search of the bear king rumored to live in the area. Immediately after they found claw markings that demarcated the bear king's territory, the black swordsman and Asuna were assaulted by the bear. While evading the bear's attacks, the duo discovered that they could collect Noblewood Cores by manipulating the bear into ramming trees. Deducing that the wood would be required for the next part of the quest, the two continued guiding the bear into ramming trees until they filled their free storage capacity with wood. At that point, the pair switched to active close combat and eventually defeated the bear, whereupon they returned to Rovia.
Having arrived at Romolo's home the two delivered the bear fat and the other crafting ingredients to the NPC and configured the design upgrades of their gondola including giving it a name, which they decided to name The Tilnel after Kizmel's sister. Once the gondola was completed at, the boy navigated The Tilnel into Rovia's waterways to practice steering it, where they encountered several surprisingly abrasive NPC gondoliers. Upon checking his quest log, Kirito discovered the Shipwright of Yore quest prompting them to speak with Romolo, who instructed them to covertly follow a large ship carrying wooden boxes when it departed Rovia around nightfall. Exhausted from their activities, the two agreed to rest and inform Argo of their progress on the quest before proceeding any further.
After a full rest it was time to get back to complete the quests.
After resupplying and eating lunch about ten hours later, the two circumnavigated Rovia's southeastern quarter in search of the boat from Romolo's description. Once they identified the ship, the duo stealthily followed it out of the city into a submerged dungeon, where they saw the crew handing the boxes to Fallen Elves.
Though exhausted from attempting to relocate the vessel when they had lost track of it earlier while navigating the dungeon, the two decided to continue the quest by investigating the boxes. Having managed to evade the guards while sneaking through the Fallen Elves' hideout, they discovered where the boxes had been stored but to their surprise found them empty. However, after eavesdropping on a conversation between the Fallen Elven General N'ltzahh and his subordinates, the Black swordsman deduced to Asuna the boxes were actually meant to be dismantled into ship construction materials for an unknown scheme that would commence in five days hence. Deciding they had learned enough, the pair departed the dungeon, returning to Rovia for sleep.
Having rested from their night adventure, the Pair relayed the Shipwright of Yore quest details to Argo, who published the information not connected to the Fallen Elves in her strategy guide that afternoon. While the Clearing guilds used the guide to construct enough gondolas of their own, the two finished quests and scouted the attack patterns of Biceps Archelon, the Field Boss guarding the caldera that granted access to the southern half of the 4th Floor. As soon as the raid party was ready, they began their battle against Biceps Archelon the next day.
Once again the black swordsman landed the final blow to defeat the Field Boss, he navigated The Tilnel to the nearby village of Usco to celebrate their victory, being joined by Argo along the way.
As The black swordsmen pushed The Tilnel through the Flooded streets of Usco. He heard Argo and Asuna talking. While he pretended not to listen he couldn't help but overhear a few things.
"I don't know what you see in him." Argo muttered
"It's subtle but it's there…besides it's my fault he's like this." Asuna responded
'Did you ever think I wanted this?' The black swordsman thought
'We both know that's not true.' Kazuto said in his mind
The black swordsman clenched his fist 'shut up Kazuto!'
'Fine I'll go for now…but I know your conviction is wavering…and ill take back my body.' Kazuto said as he faded from the The Black swordsman's mind as he paid attention to the girls again.
"You know there is a Christmas party in Rovia the ALS and DKB have going on." Argo said
Asuna looked over "how come I never knew of it?" Asuna asked
Argo nudged towards Kirito "because he's not invited."
Asuna looked down and clenched her fists in anger. How dare they after saying that they wouldn't separate them couldn't they see they were doing the same thing here.
It was then the Black Swordsman made himself known.
"If you want to we can turn back. I can move on and find us a room for the night and you can teleport back here afterwards." He said making both girls jump not realizing that he was listening in the entire time.
Argo looked back embarrassed rubbing the back of her head
Asuna however was looking right at Kirito.
At his eyes. His dead cold eyes.
But underneath them she understood
Hurt.
Asuna growled and turned to Argo
"I assume you got contacts for The leaders of the ALS and the DKB?" She asked
Argo jumped at the harshity in her voice as the rat nodded
"Good then I want you to send this message, thee exact words. 'I am partners with Kirito. You will never change that, don't try. If you want to invite both of us to a gathering fine, but don't insult me, insult us, by trying to invite one of us and not the other.'" Asuna said
Argo looked pale as a sheet as she sent the message
Asuna smiled and turned to Kirito who was still steering the gondola,
No change on his face.
Finally they reached an inn and Argo had left them to gather information around the area leaving the two alone.
"I'm sorry." Asuna heard Kirito say
Asuna turned around "what?" She asked
"Forcing you to stay here with me alone when you could be with others having fun." He said
Asuna scoffed "Please the only reason they want me there is for eye candy…you however, you're my partner. And I will never leave you. And that is a promise." Asuna said as she grabbed his face.
The black swordsman looked at her in awe as he remembered a long buried memory.
A memory of a past Christmas with Asuna a year before she died…
(Play Song: the promise by Tracy chapmen)
They sat beside each other looking at a wood fire they set up in a rented cabin Kazuto bought for them for the holiday.
"I'll never know how you convinced my mother to allow this." Asuna said on his shoulder
"I don't think I will either." Kazuto said as they fell into a comfortable silence
"Hey." Kazuto said
"Hmm?"
"…nothing…just I love you." He said
"I love you too. And I will never leave you." Asuna said unknowingly, comforting Kazuto's fear in his mind.
From there Kazuto and Asuna swayed by the fire enjoying the winter heat and each other.
The black swordsman flashed back to the present as He remembered his first thought when he got back in time. It was Asuna.
They stood outside now watching the snow fall. His hands holding hers.
And she wasn't pulling away…
He heard the voice of Asuna ringing angelic in his head
'I always hold a place for you in my heart.'
He looked over to take a glance at Asuna
He saw the Awe in her face as the snow fell around them.
For a second He saw his asuna overlayed over the ne infront of him
His eyes unwillingly teared up but he tried to force them away.
They wouldn't listen
He shut his eyes
And found himself standing in a void and infront of him was Asuna
His Asuna.
She strode forward and put a hand on his heart a bright loving smile on his face.
A face he mirrored unwillingly, as he let his tears flow.
He felt the ghost of Asuna embrace him as they swayed in a slow dance together as he remembered
Her touch, There kisses, The warm embrace
The voices of the promises shared between them echoed in his mind
"I'll find my way back to you."
The black swordsman bowed his head as he admitted the truth.
He hated his own existence…
He looked up and saw that he was looking out on the fourth floor
Asuna was infront of him. Looking at him
But not concerned
Lovenly.
The black swordsman's facade began to crack.
He thought of Asuna every minute of the day. To the point of insanity.
But now he heard it. the beating of his heart the heart that beats for Asuna.
Kirito remembered his lovely wife, he remembered the family he had, the adventures they shaired.
The reason he came back in time in the first place
To see her.
To be with her.
Kazuto stood over The black swordsman who knelt before him head bowed
'I admit…I lost…' The blackswordsman said
Kazuto stepped forward and put a hand on his shoulder
'There are times when you will be needed…but you are not needed now.' Kazuto said
As he looked up both of them
And saw the face of Asuna crying happily
A face that warmed both There hearts
The black swordsman stood up 'good luck buddy.' He said
He smiled as he watched the life he and Asuna shared flash before him.
He remembered it all. And why he came back
To experience it again. With her by his side.
Back in the game Kirito still held Asuna's hand
He looked down and noticed. He felt right.
He felt so good to be with her in her arms.
He had reached it his journeys end
'If you can make a promise, If it's one that you can keep.'
Kazuto felt the words leaving him mouth before he regestered them
"I vow to come for you."
Asuna looked at Kirito stunned almost like a deer in the headlights
But he didn't notice. He was seeing her soul, above her smiling down upon him.
Kirito watched the angilic version of Asuna fly away.
He didn't scream
Nor cry.
He didn't need to.
She was here with him.
(End song)
"Asuna." The Black swordman said watching the snow fall as Asuna looked over to him
"Thank you." He said
Asuna smiled and leaned on him "of course…what are partners for."
"No…it's more than that." He said
They turned to each other and Asuna gasped
The fire was back in his eyes…the life.
It was Kirito.
"Thank you for staying by me." He said before he began to drag Asuna back inside.
"Wait. Where are we going?" She asked
"Ignore the other guilds' Christmas parties. We'll have our own. Just the two of us." He said as he turns and looked at her in the eyes a bright smile on his face
'The dream party we've no that you deserved to have.' He thought
Asuna smiled brightly
Kirito looked up and noticed it was getting dark soon they would have to be quick to set everything up.
But he would do it.
He would enjoy this night with Asuna.
And the rest of the game to
So long as they were together.
Kirito lead Asuns to the gondala and helped her get in as they went to gather supplies for there party as well as some gear for the next part of the adventure
Once the pair finished resupplying, Kirito steered The Tilnel further downriver, Asuna watched as the snow fell around her a bright smile on her face
Finally arriving an hour later at the destination theDark Elven stronghold of Yofel Castle.
The Yofel Castle was located in the middle of a great circular lake.
The castle looked like a fearsome and grand fortress with four towers of differing heights standing over the roof of the building, each one waving a triangular pennant that featured a crossed horn and scimitar on a black field - the dark elf flag. The fortress was walled with white stone, its steeply angle roof gray slate tile. Orange light spilled from its countless arched windows. The building itself was completely isolated from the surrounding land, and several large black gondolas were moored at the long pier straight outside the front gate.
The highest of the towers had to be about fifty metres tall. A massive gate made of dark and gleaming plates of thick metal blocks the path to the castle from the pier, and two dark elves who are heavily armed by elvish standards guard it on either side.
That was normally
However as it was Christmas the Elven fortress looked a lot more Holly on it as it brightened with a more festive feel.
Asuna gasped at how amazing it was to see.
"That's not even the best part follow me." Kirito said as he lead Asuna by the hand into the Elven fortress.
Asuna beleaved they would be stopped before allowing access but the Elven guards just smiled and let them pass.
The entrance to the castle leads to a front garden, which in turn leads to the main hall that has a marble fountain filled with glittering water at its center.
Beyond the fountain was a grand staircase and wide hallways extending to left and right.
The castle was laid out in such a way that the main building connected the four main towers in the shape of a rectangle with one open side.
The right side of the castle was a station for soldiers, while the left side housed the castle's inhabitants and servants.
The castle also had a central courtyard. the courtyard consists of a cobblestone pathways and a thorny maze that leads to a beautiful garden surrounding a stunning conifer with brick flower planters and bronze benches alternating around the tree.
The castle's dining hall is located on the second floor of the west wing.
Additionally, the second floor also includes a ten-man barracks, as well as the officers' room on the fourth floor of the east wing which was to be used as there room for as long as they remained here.
The castle also has a huge bathing room at the far end of the west wing on the third floor. The bathing room only has a single, huge changing room with pure white-tiled floors, a shining chandelier hanging from the ceiling, large potted plants sitting in the corner, and a glass door at the back of the room leading to the bath. The bath chamber itself had ivory-white tiles so pure that one could see through them. The bath as large as a pool was made of horizontally lined ebony basalt that surrounded the lake, but polished to a perfect sheen. Gold faucets set into the wall poured out a considerable waterfall of water. The western and southern walls of the chamber were made of glass, offering a huge vista of the lake.
Yofilis's office, with two armed guards standing outside the chamber, was located on the fifth floor. The office was a very large room, but it's windows were all covered with curtains, making the room unnaturally dark. An approximately three meter-wide, heavy desk made of polished blackwood was located in the very back of the chamber. The chamber has a secret door along the wall that led to a staircase formed from window frames, allowing quick descent to the bottom of the castle. In case of emergencies.
Asuna was stunned as she looked around as they found themselves in the middle of the castle courtyard
Asuna gasped as she noticed someone in front of her
"Kizmel!" Asuna said making the dark elf turn around
"Hello!" Kizmel said with a bright smile on her face.
Asuna hugged Kizmel as they embraced and caught up Kirito watched with a smile.
Kizmel noticed Kirito was happier and gave Asuna a subtle well done.
After the reunion Kizmel allowed them a quick tour of the castle as they all went to the dining hall for a meal,
A big meal that Asuna and Kirito enjoyed quiet fondly.
Then following that Kizmel showed them to their rooms on the fourth floor. Before she departed to do other things.
Once they were left alone Kirito noticed that Asuna was concerned about a bath, Kirito smiled
"Don't worry this castle has a huge bath." He said
He watched her glee at that which brought a smile to his face "if you want I can show you." He said
Asuna nodded
As Kirito lead her down the hall and too the bath Asuna found herself in the bath waiting as she sunk into the water.
"Will you join me Kirito?" Asuna asked
Kirito blushed and looked away
"Ah!" He gasped
"I don't mind. I think it would be good to experience it together." Asuna said.
Kirito finally giving in sighed as he changed out of her sight and got in the water with her.
While they were having a bath, they were joined by Kizmel who also got in the water they began to talk about Yofel Castle, and how amazing it was
Kirito suddenly remembered the events of the Shipwright of Yore quest they had just done and realized that the fallen elves planned to provide the forest elves with ships to attack the dark elven castle he told Kizmel this, and got a notification of them completing the quest.
As Kizmel unfortunately this was drastic news and took the two to the office of the castle's ruler to report. At the chamber, where they recounted the information given as well as physical proof, the scroll given to them by the Dark Elven Commander as well as several Fallen elf plans they scraped together when they investigated the empty boxes. Giving proof that the Forest elf's were not the enemy but the fallen.
They gave all this information to Viscount Yofilis, and they were rewarded with two rings that served as identification inside the castle. Kizmel then proceeded with the report, at the end of which she recommended transporting the first and second keys to a higher floor. Yofilis agreed with the proposal and requested Kirito and Asuna to assist Kizmel in retrieving the keys while the dark elves prepared for the upcoming siege.
Afterwards, the group retired for the night. From there they set up a small Christmas party in there castle room where they enjoyed some quickly prepared snacks made by Asuna and they sat by the window watching the snowfall while near the Castle fire.
It was simple.
But it was what they wanted. To be together.
You couldn't remove the smiles from there face that they had when they laid down for the night
Not noticing that they both slept in the same bed.
And not caring either.
The siege of the castle by the forest elf attack began two days later. During the battle, two forest elven ships managed to pass through the dark elven blockade and made contact with the castle's pier. Allowing the forest elves to come pouring out onto the shore. As the dark elves were outnumbered and being pushed back Kirito saw the tide of the battle turning against them as he turned to Asuna and Kizmel. "I need you to hold the line on the Pier." He said
Asuna looked at him "what are you doing?" She asked
"Getting extra help." He said as he noticed Asuna was about to argue he grabbed her hands
"Please, you're the only one I trust to help defend the gate." He said
Asuna was stunned but nodded as Kirito let go he looked at Kizmel and nodded before he himself ran to Yofilis's office.
As he entered the office he noticed a pair of Dark elf assassins attacking the Viscount who was fighting for his life.
Kirito lunged in and Struck a killing blow on one and turned to finish the other only to see the viscount had used an ornament on the desk to bash the assassins head in before cutting him down.
The viscount readjusted his jacket "thank you." He said
"The fallen will try Again we must repel the enemy here." Kirito said
Kirito had managed to persuade the dark elf to participate in the battle and lead his troops. With Yofilis motivating the dark elves as they charged out of the castle Yofilis used «Flashing Penetrator» to defeat several groups of elves at once.
Fortunately Kirito, Asuna, and the dark elves managed to repel the forest elven forces. Making them flee soon after.
In the aftermath, Kirito and Asuna discovered that the Clearers had already departed to the boss room in the Labyrinth. The two were considering not to participate in the battle as they were already late; however, Kizmel informed them had a special ability that could endanger the players. As the two were about to depart to the Labyrinth to warn the other players, Kizmel and Yofilis, along with two dark elven guards, announced that they would assist the players in the battle, and all six of them departed using a dark elven gondola.
"What do we need to know about the floor guardian?" Asuna asked Yofilis as the Elven fleet departed.
As they were informed of its capabilities Asuna looked to see Kirito was already texting Argo about the information.
When they reached the boss room Argo looked at them shocked
"Where were you?!" She hissed
"Completing the floor quest." Kirito said as he ordered Argo to open the door.
The rush of water came flooding out the door as Argo was shocked
"Where did that come from?!" She asked
Kirito looked at her "I told you to open the door frequently for the boss fight." He said
He rolled his eyes and lunged In followed by Asuna and the Dark elf contingent.
Wythege the Hippocampus turned out to be a hippo that could flood the area.
The battle was a mess as the raid group was on the constant edge of defeat.
Then when Kirito and Asuna appeared the tide turned and the boss was killed opening up the fifth floor.
Once again they pushed on to the next floor
after reaching the 5th Floor Kirito told Asuna to get in contact with Argo and that very important information has come up.
After explaining the rampant player killing on the floor as well as the Boss Drop for the floor Asuna agreed and sent the message
Kirito and Asuna arrived at Karluin to activate the town's Teleport Gate and spent the night at an inn.
While Asuna slept Kirito got a message from Argo saying where to meet up.
Kirito got up and found Argo by the teleport plaza.
"So what's the information you wanted to share?" She asked
"The floor boss drop is the flag of valor. Which does exactly what it says it does in the beta." Kirito explained
Argo nodded "I'll see what I can do." Argo said as she hopped up
"There's a secret passage in the last town that leads to a quick exit to the boss of this floor. I want you to gather the best of those you trust and get in contact with them and have them meet us at the BLINK & BRINK inn. The passageway is covered by another boss but it allows us to skip the actual field boss instead and go straight to the floor boss. We can have this floor cleared in 4 days and avoid a war between the ALS and DKB." Kirito said
Argo nodded "I understand I'll get in contact with them and you'll see them in two days or so."
As the two parted Kirito went back up to bed and went to sleep.
The next day the pair committed most of the day to fulfilling quests. Feeling accomplished Kirito started to lead them back to the town.
When he was stopped by Asuna.
"H-hey Kirito?" She asked
"Yes?" Kirito asked
"You said that on this floor Player vs player combat will become more fequent?" She said
Kirito nodded "yeah…there now going to be an incentive for killing other players. Most players ingnore it…but there are some that…" Kirito said
Asuna gasped
"Can you…teach me?" She asked
Kirito looked at her "teach me to defend myself." She said
Kirito nodded "ok…we will tonight."
As dusk fell, the two stood before each other in a field standing across each other swords at the ready.
"Are you sure about this?" Kirito asked
Asuna nodded "I need to be." She said
Kirito nodded "we will go off first strike mode which means the first one to do damage will be the winner. It's almost impossible to do enough Damage to actually kill your opponent." He said
Asuna nodded as Kirito set up the duel.
The two raised there weapons. As Kirito watched looking for attacks
'Her form is solid…she's almost as good as me…but I've been trained…I've faced this type of combat for years. And now it's time to train Asuna to be better than me.' Kirito thought as the duel began
Kirito charged as Asuna charged up an attack
Asuna locked eyes on Kirito's descending form the Aura of danger radiating from his body
Sudden Asuna's body seized up
And she let out a scream.
Kirito was seen comforting a crying Asuna as he knelt on the ground Asuna using his shoulder.
"Hey it's ok." He said
Asuna shook her head "no…no it's not." I should be able to stand beside you…but I…I can't. I'm just a liability." She haggled.
Kirito rubbed her back
"It's ok. In the moment you don't feel yourself moving, just reacting."
He slowly pulled her up "let's turn in for the night." He said
Asuna nodded
Having returned to Karluin after that evening, Kirito led Asuna through the southern part of the town to the BLINK & BRINK inn, he ordered a limited-supply Blue-Blueberry Tart dish as part of their dinner and a way to cheer up Asuna which was successful as she promptly forgot her ordeal and moaned heavenly at how good the dish was.
Suddenly the girl drew his attention to an icon that appeared within her view after they consumed the dessert, the boy explained that the dish gave an hour-long buff that highlighted relics littered throughout the town.
That prompted Asuna to Drag Kirito out to the streets to gather as many relics and treasure as they could.
After spending the next hour on an impromptu relic hunt, the duo teleported to Rovia, where they found Agil who was in fact calling them over.
"Hey man over here!" He said as Asuna and walked over to the merchant "hey Agil I haven't seen you on the last few bosses are you okay?"
Agil shrugged "yeah man I just happened to actually get my merchant stall up and running now I have a way to get consistent col."
Kirito smiled "that's great man I'll be sure to drop by sometime too." He said
Agil smiled and looked to Asuna who just winked Agil smiled
"Argo told me about the plan for the floor. I'll be there." He said
Kirito winced "you don't have to you've got a business to run now." He said
Agil crossed his arms with a big smile "I want to man believe me. I trust you." He said
Kirito felt moved at least he had one of his old firends back.
"Thank you Agil, I'll have Argo contact you when it's time that we move." Kirito said
Agil nodded as they took there leave.
Before they got into their gondola to travel to Yofel Castle in order to claim their rewards from Viscount Yolfilis. After spending the night in the castle, Kirito and Asuna returned to Karluin the next day. only to find that it was raining. Wanting to avoid the rain, the two stepped into the catacombs beneath the town to complete some quests.
For their first quest, they started the «Thirty Year Lament», quest they visited an underground chapel in the catacombs. There, they encountered a ghost, who had been trapped in the chapel for thirty years. After conversing with the ghost, the two found a gold pendant in the chapel and had it identified in town.
The pendant led them to the mansion of an affluent merchant family in Karluin, whose leader had sealed the girl he was betrothed to in the subterranean chapel. After escorting the merchant to confront the ghost and then returning him to his mansion, Asuna and Kirito received their rewards for the quest and, once they left the merchant's room, the latter disappeared with a rattling.
Having completed two more underground quests and gained another level, Asuna and Kirito returned to BLINK & BRINK for a glass of wine to celebrate. Noticing that the special dessert was still in stock, Kirito noticed that Argo's guide was not in the stores yet.
Due to not being able to send her a friend message, Kirito concluded that Argo must have been busy with the dungeon beneath the town. He hoped she was safe and he'd try again later on and if she'd still not message him back then he'd investigate. As they ordered the meal and had a relaxing night together,
After a meal, the two seemingly retired for the night, but when Asuna stepped out into the hall to make use of a bath at the end of the hall, she noticed that Kirito was leaving the inn. Realizing that he was going to the dungeon to look for Argo, Asuna decided to join him. However, before she could reach him, she lost track of him in the catacombs.
Kirito was hurrying through the second level of the catacombs, intent on finding Argo before the info broker got herself killed
however, Kirito noticed Asuna's HP bar drop by ten percent as he walked
Realizing the girl had followed after him into the dungeon but fallen afoul of a trapdoor, Kirito turned on his heels and backtracked to Asuna's location headed to where the trap let out on the third level.
As he passed he heard the sound of people talking in an side room Kirito pressed his head to the wall to listen in
"My my what a nice weapon." A voice said
"I don't see a reason for a cute girl like you to need it."
"Oh I know…I'll kill you with it." Kirito reconized the voice as Morte meeting with another player in a secluded room,
Kirito stepped in while the other player was holding Asuna's Chivalric Rapier.
"Hey!" Kirito growled making the two turn.
Kirito drew his sword pointing it at Morte
"Where did you get that Rapier?"
"Why the little girl right here?" The other man said as he stepped aside to reveal a bound Asuna
"Kirito run!" She screamed
Kirito began to shake as flashbacks to all the times Asuna was helpless flashed before him as he tried to get his in anger under him a voice echoed in his head
'Use me…'
Kirito fought back the urge to allow The Black swordsman to slaughter these foes even if one was a member of Laughing coffin. No he didn't need Asuna to be scared of his own psychosis.
Then a trigger
The shattering of glass and a scared yelp from Asuna
A possible death. Or injured.
Asuna! Was in trouble, React! react! Kill!
"RAH!
"Oh fuc-!" Both Morte and the other screamed as Kirito charged at the two with killing intent!
Several clashed were heard in the dark space as the flashes of the sparks of the blades were the only visible signs that a fight was going on.
The grin of Kirito's face was maniac
He was a monster
Both Morte and his partner were terrified
Suddenly with sicking scream the sound of shattering glass was heard.
As Asuna's Chivalric Rapier. Dropped to the ground.
The sound of heavy panting was the only noise in the room until.
"…k-Kirito?" The voice of Asuna said meekly
Kirito froze
'Oh shit…she saw everything.' Horror etched on his face
"Asuna." He said
He looked up to see her rubbing her wrists
Oh apparently the glass wasn't the two killing her. It was her breaking the Ropes
"Your alive!" Kirito gasped as he lunged at her startling her as they embraced.
"I-I feared the worst when I heard the sound I just reacted." He said falling apart into incoherent mumbles.
It was now Asuna's turn to give him a back rub as he let out the emotion's drain from him.
Eventually the two calmed down Kirito let out a dark laugh "it's crazy…I should be comforting you from what happened not the other way around." He said
Asuna just hushed him "it's ok. It's alright I'm not afraid." She said
Kirito looked up and laughed darkly "but you should be." He said his thoughts turned into the fact of relief that Asuna was safe and more that she wasn't scared of him, however Kirito overheard a large group of monsters attracted by Asuna's entrance approaching their location, from his yelling.
Kirito turned to see a large monster at the door barring his teeth at him
Kirito drew his sword "you will not touch her." He said
"Kirito…" Asuna muttered
"Stay behind me Asuna." Kirito said firmly.
The monster charged as the two engaged in visious battle with Kirito standing his ground and still performing sweeping stricks acting as a solid wall to prevent the beast from hitting Asuna
Finally the monster shattered leaving them alone at last.
However it was there that Asuna broke down
Not because she was scaired for her life.
Not because of his psychosis.
But because Kirito had to kill to save her.
"I should have done it myself, I could have done it myself. But I froze instead. And I left it to you to do it then." She cried the boy remained in place to gently comfort the girl,
Once Asuna had recomposed herself, Kirito resumed his search for Argo with his partner in tow. Less than an hour later, they found the information broker investigating the area boss guarding the shortcut tunnel that led to the next town of Mananarena. Thanks to Argo solving a puzzle that weakened the resilient boss, the two were able to defeat it alongside the info broker that same day. As they left the catacombs with the knowledge that Argo was safe they went to bed.
The next day Asuna was insistent on training to fight PvP.
While Kirito thought this wasn't a good idea Asuna was insistent.
"I won't let you fight for my safety alone." She said
Kirito sighed
"You misunderstood…I'm not trying to not teach you, I'm saying I will not fight you to do so." He said
Kirito explained his condition due to his PTSD which he refused to go into but Asuna was understanding and didn't push.
"I can give you the training but I'm not able to do much more." He said
"What do you suggest?" Asuna asked
"When you use sword skills, follow the movement with your body feel where your body is. And try to recreate them without using the skills. They will be faster and they hold the correct attack forms too." Kirito said
Asuna nodded as Kirito went inside. To calm down.
Several days later, on New Year's Eve, a New Year countdown event was organized at a ruined castle at the east end of Karluin by the Aincrad Liberation Squad and the Dragon Knights Brigade. However, as expected Kirito and Asuna were not invited.
It didn't stop them however from enjoying the night themselves.
Asuna and Kirito met the New Year in a hidden terrace of the castle. Not with the organized event
As they were running low on champagne, Kirito decided to head downstairs for a fresh bottle and some food. However, en route, he was ambushed by a player who had concealed himself with Hiding.
Holding a dagger at his back, the man attempted to order Kirito into moving to the basement of the castle, where the Anti-Criminal Code would not protect him, claiming to have applied a paralysis poison to his dagger. And that there was another firend of his ready to strike at Asuna
Upon hearing Asuna in danger Kirito reacted.
He stomped on the person's foot making him stumble before Kirito elbowed him away allowing Kirito to draw his sword
The man cursed as he reached in his belt to grab a smoke bomb and threw it on the ground
However he didn't expect that Kirito would jump into the smoke and lunge at him
Kirito felt his blade clip the assailants shoulder sending him into the stone walls
Kirito cleared the smoke and found the assailants identity to be revealed
He was short man with a scarred eye and brown hair before the assailant flipped back up his hood and fled.
Kirito was about to chase after him when he stepped on a booby trap which paralyzed him for a few seconds just enough to get away.
Kirito escaped the clutches of the trap and Fearing that Asuna was also in danger, Kirito rushed to her, finding her enjoying the view without an issue.
Asuna looked back shocked "what is it?" She asked
"It's…it's nothing." He said as he sat down to join Asuna who smiled not missing the snacks or drinks at all.
As they returned to bed Kirito received a message from Argo that the raid would be ready tomorrow morning and would convene in the inn diner where they will meet Kirito.
The Next morning Kirito got up to see the Inn was packed with players many solo players and one or two Smaller guilds
From them Kirito recognized The Legend Braves, Furrenkazen, Agil, his Merchant buddies, and a few breakaway solo players.
All total the raid group consisted of at least 50 players a good size for this boss.
Kirito looked around and noticed that he had everyone's attention he moment he walked into the room
"Ok listen us the boss called Fuscus the Vacant Colossus, he has 4 health bars and he has 2 phases, the first of which is his head floating around and doing laser beam attacks and having a arm appear and smash the ground ahead of it. The 2nd phase is his full form. Which will manifest once his first two health bars are depleted. His weak spot is his Head. In both forms so focus on that area.
The best strategy to fight him would be to "hit-and-run". You hit the boss right after it finished attacking, then run away. The safe distance would be about 10m.
This is because Fucus the Vacant Colossus has an attack where he holds one arm and swings the other around himself. It is a very short window between the tell and damage received.
Also, be aware that even when outside of the 10m range, the boss can still use a lying down attack that hones into its target. A circle area attack will appear around the target.
If the boss jumps forward, it will push you along with it. The same thing happens when the boss starts swinging its arms whilst moving forward. However, as the latter is a 5-hit attack, it takes longer to implement and individual hits deal lesser damage. Hence, you can escape by running out of the boss' way.
To avoid getting hit, flanking helps. Just before the boss turns to attack you, move at least 90 degrees from where it will be facing. This will also allow you to squeeze hits in.
The last attack is a special attack where he stands with its arms together, and from his feet a black circle will spread outwards be careful around it if you run in the giant circle area This attack applies Curse debuff, where potions will heal less. You will also receive increased damage as long as this debuff remains. And as far as I know it will pile up, increasing the time it takes for it to go away." Kirito said
"Any questions?" He asked
"Yeah what's the boss drop?" Someone asked
"The boss drop is why we are having this meeting in the first place. The item is called the Flag of Valor. It's a banner that if used by a guild master has the ability to prevent Debuffs to the guild. Something that if found by the two major guilds could start a war against them. Which is why we are having this meeting." Kirito said
"We've gotten word from Argo that Both the ALS and DKB have just entered this floors labyrinth. Neither guild knows we have the entire place mapped out already. Nor do they know we have access to a secret passageway that leads us straight to the boss room
At most estimates they will get to the boss room in two days time. Scout it out on the third and kill it on the fourth. I want it dead by 3:00 today." Kirito said
"We enter the Labyrinth in two hours. We make our way to the boss and kill it.
Anyone who gets the last attack bonus so long as they are not a guild member gets to keep it. However if the one who it does drop for is a guild member I'm going to kindly ask you give it over to me. Not because I want to use it. But because if we allow you to keep it we are just making the same situation we were trying to avoid." Kirito said
Everyone looked at each other tensely could they really trust the beater to play fair like that.
However suddenly someone stood up wearing Red samurai Armor, it was Klein from Furrenkazen while not so influential like Diabel or Kibaou he was the most influential in the room.
"My guild has no need for such an item. You have my oath that should either of us get the Flag we will turn it over to you…comander." Klein said with a smile
Kirito stumbled glad that he had Klein's loyalty but commander? He wasn't even leading this party.
Suddenly Orlando from the Legend Braves stood up
"We heroes of old swear our pact to the Honorable leader Kirito. May our banners fly high and victorious that is the only banner we seek!" He said falling to his knees.
Kirito looked around they were the only two guilds to join the raid
He nodded "very well. Thank you for your assistance, now let's organize what sort of parties we will use.
I want the Legend blades and Furrenkazen to be the ones with the most Aggro Nezha and anyone else with a throwing weapon you guys will be most important in the first part of the boss fight as there is simply no way for us to reach it without range.
Once it fully forms while yes the head is a weak spot any hit to it's physically body will deal damage to it. And it will no longer use the laser attack. But it's damage will double as its first move will be to use curse." Kirito explained
Anyone who can act as a tank I want to Supplement the rest of the players and be able to quickly rotate in to allow the Two guilds to retreat and heal. Most importantly don't charge in at the same time, stagger your attack and run people."
"Anyone who is neither range or Tank will act as reserve and a way to focus aggro away from DPS." Kirito explained.
"Any questions on the formation?" He asked
There were none.
"Meeting adjourned people meet up at the Entrance Argo told you about in two hours." Kirito said as the raid group despursed.
Asuna came up to him and put an arm on his shoulder "hey you did good." She said
Kirito smiled
"Thanks but i don't think so." He said
From the group he noticed Agil The legend Braves and Furrenkazen approaching
"On the contrary Kirito, you make a natural leader." Orlando said
Kirito stumbled due to the prase but Klein spoke up next.
"Yeah even I have to admit that even though I'm already a guild leader, if Furrenkazen wasn't made up of who it was. I'd disband it and join your guild immediately." He said
Kirito gulped
"But I don't have a guild." He said
Then it was Agil who stepped forward "we might not be an official guild. But after we've talked about it ourselves we've come to realize that we are willing to follow you to hell and back." He said
Kirito looked around and noticed that all of them stop there smiling
Agil and his two other merchants buddies. Klein and Furrenkazen totaling around 11 and The Legend braves 6 members giving him a guild of 20 and Asuna
21 members who just admitted they were willing to fight and willingly die for him even after openly admitting to know that is was a trap when it started.
How did he deserve such firends.
Kirito sighed "thank you for your support but I don't feel confident about making a guild right now. However we can exchange contacts and make a network to keep us informed about other player's progress and assist them if we need to." Kirito said
Everyone nodded
Agil looked over at the others "who doesn't have Kirito in there friends list?"
Fortunately only the Legends Braves but Nezha did so he shared it with them.
"There's one more I'd like to add to the group if your willing and that's Argo the Rat. While I know a lot about this game I do not in fact Know everything. And having her here would be a great help."
The others nodded accepting his choice.
Kirito nodded and turned to Asuna
"Inform Argo we will be ready in 2 hours. If anyone needs to get equipment repaired I suggest you do it now there's a blacksmith I believe two floors down that's really right?" Kirito asked Asuna
Asuna held her chin
"I think Liz has moved up to floor 3 now actually hold on I'll check." She said as she opened her menu.
"Oh no she's in this city in fact." Asuna said
"Huh ok." Kirito said
The group parted ways to prepare for the Boss battle.
2 hours later the raid group was assimbled before the boss door.
Kirito looked to the group "alright we all know what's at stake i have no words simply keep with your party's and keep track of your health." He said as he looked over to Asuna who smiled as did Agil and Klein the latter gave him a thumbs up.
Kirito pushed the door open "attack!" He said
The group charged and engaged the boss as it spawned
"Rangers target the head everyone else stay back Shielders cover the ranged fighters while they draw aggro."
The battle began and the slug fest began as the head started to fly around and hand's appeared on the ground swatting away at the group.
Kirito barked out orders of "switch" and "heals" to the point that the entire force was one cohesive force
And it was clear as to what the reason for it was.
Especially when five minutes after the battke started phase 2 of the fight began
"Alright phase two get ready!" Kirito announced
"How's everything going?"
Surprisingly almost no one had hit yellow once yet.
Another ten minutes and the boss was destroyed
The time was 1:00 3 hours early.
"Kirito looked at the inventory and pulled out the flag of Valor which he got from the boss. Getting the last attack bonus.
"Good job everyone. Now it's best we depart now before the DKB and ALS arrive." Kirito said
Everyone nodded as they departed. While Kirito and Asuna went ahead to go open up the next floors teleporter.
At 03:00, Kirito and Asuna teleported to Stachion, where the former drew the latter's attention to the puzzles that comprised much of the town. As the duo wandered through the city, Kirito recalled how he had been ambushed by a man in a black poncho during the New Year's Eve party only a few hours earlier. Predicting that another attempt would be made on his and Asuna's lives, he resolved to teach his partner how to protect herself against such inevitable encounters.
With that thought in mind, Kirito informed Asuna of what actually happened he was going to ask her to train more on the PvP but was shocked when it was actually her requesting to resume their player versus player combat practices.
Kirito agreed saying that they would start in the morning before proceeding any further with clearing the 6th Floor, to which Asuna agreed.
After breakfast that morning, Kirito and Asuna traveled to the Dark Elf Base on the 3rd Floor to upgrade their weapons and armor,
After getting all the upgrades they made there way to the courtyard where Asuna looked at Kirito
"What's up?" She asked
"Here we can practice player vs player combat safely" he said
Kirito drew his sword "are you sure you trust me?" He asked her
Asuna drew her rapier "why wouldn't I?" She asked
Kirito looked at his feet "because I don't trust myself…" he mumbled
Asuna sent him a duel requesting a one hit match.
He sighed and accepted
He looked at Asuna trying to focus on her stance and not the darker urge screaming in his head.
Kirito lunged as Asuna did so as well.
'Her speed is on par with a master fencer.' Kirito thought
As he dipped his blade to cut past her and land the strike he was met with her rapier again
Kirito was shocked as he looked at Asuna again
And she wasn't wearing the outfit she wore now.
She wore her Knight of the blood oath uniform.
And she was holding. Lambent light.
Kirito gasped as he saw his wife reflected in the woman before him.
And that was all that she needed to end the duel
Asuna slapped Kiritos blade out of his hands and pointed her blade at his neck.
Yet she refused to lunge.
It took a moment for Kirito to actually process the fact that he had lost.
But he also knew Asuna didn't have the urge to end it either
So taking matters into his own hands he walked forward allowing himself to get cut by Asuna thus ending the duel by first blood.
After that Kirito promptly collapsed.
When Kirito came through he was laying on Asuna's lap
"hey." He said
Asuna smiled "hey you ok?"
Kirito nodded " yeah how long was I out for?"
"Only like five seconds." Asuna said
Kirito nodded and got up "ok let's try that again. You had good form but you have to follow through with the attack. Just like if you were fighting against a monster." Kirito said
Asuna huffed and nodded as they worked spending the next hour training in player versus player combat,
Kirito would sometimes duel with her other times he'd watch her form.
At one point he had arranged a meeting with the DKB about the Flag of Valor. Apparently they wanted to meet. And discuss it and it's overall impact.
Kirito called Asuna over as she was doing drills trying to gain Muscle memory from the sword skill system.
Asuna came over and he explained the situation to which she agreed to.
The pair returned to Stachion to meet with Diabel, Lind, Hafner, and Shivata to inform the Dragon Knights Brigade on the Flag of Valor,
Kirito got a message from Argo when they entered the city "Argo has told us the meeting location one of the local Pubs."
Asuna nodded "lead the way."
As they walked the street Kirito could heard people muttering about them
"It's the Black swordsman, and the lightning flash."
"They are so cool."
They entered the pub and found Shivata by the Bar waiting for them
Shivata wore metal armor and a dark blue shirt, with a breastplate on top and was armed with a «Stout Brand». A one handed broadsword on his hip.
He looked over and saw the two approach
"This way." He said as he lead them to the back room
Kirito and Asuna looked at each other and followed fearing a trap Kirito stepped in first beleaving he could be better able to take the hit and allow Asuna to escape if needed.
Fortunately it wasn't a trap and Diabel, Lind and Hafner were sitting at a round table waiting for them.
"Diabel." Kirito said
Diabel looked at Kirito, no smile present on his face.
"Have a seat."
Kirito and Asuna did so as the waiter came in and gave them drinks.
"You know we thought we were making good progress the other day climbing the labyrinth. We were making our way to the Boss room And then the mobs just vanished." Diabel said
"We thought it was a trick. A trap laid by Kayaba to get us to lower our guards. Imagine when we found out that the floor boss had been defeated before us." He said
"Diabel…" Kirito started
Diabel slammed his hand on the table "DID YOU EVER THINK THAT I DIDN'T GIVE A SHIT ABOUT THE FLAG AND JUST WANNA LEAVE?!" He roared.
Kirito paused before he looked down
"No…it didn't occur. More to the point I didn't want to risk the possibility of an incident instead." Kirito said
"What you did was reckless. I don't care if your a god of this game and are unable to actually die. You're a vault of information that we need to escape."
"Argo knows." He said
"But it's not you!" Diabel said
"While we're on the topic Kirito I assume you did it to avoid a fight between ALS and the DKB. But what does the item do?" Lind asked
As Kirito explained it everyone looked at it heavily
"That is a very powerful item Hafner said
"It's reasonable to assume that the item would split the front lines. Heck any sane leader would want to have it." Shivata said
"Which is why I used everything in my power to keep the information away from Kibaou." Kirito said
The DKB deligate's looked to each other
"Well…" Diabel said
Suddenly the door opened and Kibaou was looking in the room panting.
Kirito looked like a deer in the headlights as Kibaou stepped in and took a seat off to the side Arms crossed
"Your reasoning is sound for not notifying me. But it doesn't mean I have to like to like it." He said
Diabel streached a hand to Kirito
"So what's the plan then for the item now?" He asked
"For now I will hold onto it. If it's out of play then it won't be an issue." Kirito said
The others nodded "ok. But I have a demand in that case." Kibaou said
"If you hold onto the flag you cannot form a guild." He said
"Excuse me?!" Asuna asked, standing up outraged.
"Oh Come on Flash, we know that your boyfriend is a solo player anyways so it shouldn't be a big deal right?" Kibaou asked
Asuna snarled but a hand from Kirito calmed her down
" you have my word that so long as I have it in my inventory I will not form a guild. However I reserve the rights to hand it off or store it publicly so I can make a guild in the future." Kirito said
Kibaou scoffed "yeah yeah sure Besides who would want to be in a guild with him anyways." He said
Kirito smiled as he stood up "Then I see no reason for us to stay here come Asuna." He said
Asuna stood up and followed after him, leaving the DKB and the ALS watching.
As they left Asuna want ranting to herself
"Stupid Kibaou. How dare he try to dictate what you can and cannot do." She huffed
"It's fine." Kirito said
"But Kirito what about the other's?" Asuna asked
Kirito laid a hand on her shoulder
"Asuna the Flag of valor only works for official guilds. However 'unofficial guilds' Kirito smiled
Asuna understood what he was saying and smiled
Asuna smiled "ok. What's the plan?" She asked
"First we need to level up we're far behind on the Quests on this floor and we need to catch up if we are to find out the information or key item for this floors boss." Kirito said as they left the pub.
After the meeting, Kirito and Asuna began working on quests in-town, including the Curse of Stachion quest series. As part of the questline, the two journeyed to Suribus by nightfall to investigate a mansion owned by Pithagrus, the previous lord of Stachion.
Having obtained a key needed for the quest from the haunted building, Kirito decided to train Asuna by not warning her about an upcoming scripted event, allowing themselves to be ambushed on their way out of the house by Cylon, an apprentice of Pithagrus who had hired them to investigate his former master. Who Immobilized with a paralyzing gas, the duo was abducted by Cylon and his henchman to be transported back to Stachion as part of the quest. As they were in the carriage Kirito looked at Asuna who was glaring at him.
Yeah he'd probably pay for this later but he noticed she was holding onto an antidote Crystal like him incase of emergencies. Which is good it means she was in fact learning. Of course with Morte dead that probably won't happen now.
However shortly after leaving Suribus, however, the carriage carrying the pair was intercepted and stopped by someone.
Kirito felt the carriage stop as they both looked around
"Why have we stopped?" Asuna asked
"I don't know." Kirito said looking around as he looked to the Cylon the driver of the cart as he fell off to the side and was dragged into the back where the two could only helplessly watch as the assassin disarmed and killed Cylon while they were still paralyzed.
While that was happening another player hopped in the cart behind them smiling.
so as to target them next more easily and making them watch Ceylon's death, resulting in a bonanza of the NPC's valuables falling to the ground
Among the pile of loot, Kirito noticed a small skull-marked jar: the Namnepenth's Poison Jar, Cylon had used to incapacitate them in town earlier. Kirito looked back to see the Assassin behind him reach out and grab the jar. Then talk to his associate
"We've got what we came for." He said as he hoped out of the Cart and lead his associate near the woods.
"What about those two Black?" The other asked loudly
Kirito's eyes widened 'Black?! Johnny Black?!' He thought as everything started to click.
They were the burgeoning Laughing coffin, and they were stealing The poison so Johnny could synthesize it later. For the guild. And by them completing the quest they now knew.
"If they're doing the quest they know what this is." The man said holding up the jar, Kill them, no one can know about our plans." Black said as he left them walking away into the forest.
"Have fun." He said as he walked away
The two watched as they parted ways.
Asuna looked over to Kirito who nodded
As they watch approached them, Kirito and Asuna independently Spoke out
"Heal!"
The Antidote crystals in there hands shattered getting rid of the stun effect.
As soon as they were freed from his paralysis debuff, the two retrieved there sword and lunged out of the toxic fumes at there would be killer,
only to find himself outnumbered as Asuna seemingly failed to escape the gas cloud. Kirito looked around and saw he was facing 4 people all around him each with black hoods. He could reasonably assume them to all be Laughing Coffin but he needed to be sure.
Kirito leveled his sword "who are you?" He asked
The first one stepped forward
"Who we are isn't important, however our name will go down in infamy. Even if you don't live to tell about it." He said
"We are Laughing Coffin."
Kirito narrowed his eyes "I see…" he said as his stance changed now lower
"Tell me have you all killed before?" Kirito asked
This made the four hit man stumble
"Um… yeah we have."
Kirito sighed
"Very well…" he said, his tone dipping down darker. As his own dark urges leaked out.
Kirito looked at the men with pure killing intent.
"I am the black swordsman and the last thing you see will be my blade." He said
The four LC members growled as The Black swordsman looked at their equipment to identify them. In order from left to right.
One had a dagger, another had a Broadsword the third one another had an axe and the final one had an rapier.
The four men growled and lunged at Kirito flying in the air at the same time
However without seeming to move Kirito vanished and appered to the left most player who was using the dagger.
The assassin snapped his head up just in time to register Kirito was beside him and level his dagger to parry the strike
The sword flew high missing the targets face.
However his boot didn't as The Black Swordsman shoved the man into the Broadsword wielder assassin. As they landed on the ground in a pile
The other two assassins landed and pivoted on there heels and lunged at Kirito the one with the Ax charged straight for his back
Without looking The black swordsman crossed his sword across his back parrying the strike before sidestepping the Lunge from the rapier user.
Asuna watched stunned as Kirito took on 4 members of assassin's at the same time without lifting a finger by the looks of it.
The Broadsword weilder leveled his weapon towards him and lunged at him.
Only for Kirito to knock it aside and used Embracer skill punctuating the assassins chest.
This caused the assassins to stumble normally whoever they attack doesn't want to kill them.
Kirito looked at the other three assassins and made a show for them as he instead of ripping his hand out which would have already done critical damage. Instead he Rippied his hand upward breaking the man's collarbone and creating a large gash splitting the arm.
The assassin fell to the round screaming and groaning
His buddies didn't move to assist him
They knew he was already dead.
Which was proven just a few seconds later as Kirito put his foot on the man's skull still screaming and stepped down his body shattering into polygons.
Kirito looked at the other three with malice Steel. As he raised his sword
"Next." He said
The others looked at each other and the one with the rapier turned to flee.
Only to be stabbed in the heart by Asuna resulting in both a true critical hit and a weak-point critical hit.
The rapier wielder engaged in Asuna
As Kirito engaged the two other men, as he began
to launch a surprise attack on the Laughing coffin dagger-wielding associate while the other one tried to actually hit him. Allowing Kirito to use several moves like in Assassin's Creed to hold them both at bay while taunting them. As he knocked the Dagger user away into a tree rendering him unconscious.
Now able to focus his attention solely on the last assassin, Kirito baited the axman into overextending himself during his assault by pretending to trip. As the emboldened assassin took a broad step towards him, the black swordsman suddenly closed the distance between them and blocked his opponent's ax by the handle, creating an opening that allowed him to sever the man's left forearm. To both of their surprise, when the assassin attempted to block a followup attack, Kirito's Accuracy-boosted Sword of Eventide unexpectedly evaded the weapon at the last second to embed itself in his opponent's heart. Just as the critical hit had reduced his hit points to the point that it would kill him In about 4 minutes Kirito was attacked by the man's associate
The rapier associate
He looked over to see Asuna laying on the ground still
Stunned
Kirito growled as the two assassins helped each other up as Kirito stepped forward. The other assassin healed his firend before throwing a smoke bomb allowing them to flee in the night.
Kirito took a snap look to his HUD to see how asuba was doing.
She wasn't even in the yellow.
Apparently the assassin just stunned her to give him an opening to escape.
Kirito walked over to her and flipped her over on her back so she could see him.
He noticed the flash of anger on her face.
Probably beating herself up for being overpowered.' Kirito reasoned. As he brought out an antadote potion having used his only crystal to escape the cart. As he poured it gently down her throat as the potion kicked in leading her into a coughing fit.
Kirito pulled the Potion away as the vial shattered now spent.
"Damn." Asuna cursed.
"It's ok Asuna, we're alive that's all that matters." Kirito said
Asuna looked at him "Kirito…do you know who they were?" She asked
Kirito stood up
"Yes. They are laughing coffin. A red guild." He said
"Red guild?" Asuna asked
"Think like an orange guild but far far more extreme. Most entirely resulting in murder." He said
Kirito clenched his fist "they are the scum of SAO." He said in righteous fury. He said as he suddenly stood up and walked away.
Asuna looked at Kirito "what should we do now?" She asked
Kirito panted looking over the carriage now unable to complete the quest he huffed
"PKing has become more dangerous…it's not something that can be ignored… contact Argo we need to get everyone together. And we actually discuss what we are going to do." Kirito said
Asuna nodded and sent a message "done. Where shall we meet everyone?"
"Our Inn." He said
(Unknown location)
In a shadowy dark cave a man sat on a chair tapping the arm rests before him the 2 assassins who survived the encounter with The Black Swordsman and The Lighting Flash.
"And you're sure of this?" He said
The dagger wielder nodded "Yes sir. The Black swordsman skill far outpaced that of a regular player." He said
"He killed Joe and Kyle Sir while fending us off at the same time!" The other assassin said
"I see…" and what of The Lighting Flash?" The man asked
"She's a monster. A force of nature untamed." The other assassin said hollowly clearly traumatized by there bout.
"Interesting. Very well. You two will now be assisting Johnny Black synthesize the Poison you recovered and test it. Before we distribute it to the rest of the guild.
XaXa, I want you to trail The Black Swordsman and The Lighting Flash, due to these failure's our existence has been revealed far earlier than I'd would have liked. We must therefore plan for retaliation." The man said as he parted his cloak to reveal a weapon,
Although classified as a dagger, the weapon is actually more similar to a large Chinese kitchen knife. The weapon is rectangular-shaped and has a blood-red like reddish-black blade. It is said to be powerful enough to pass through full plate armor with ease.
"From now on we will no longer announce our presence, we must Proxy our involvement. Is there any word on what information Morte uncovered before he was silenced?" The man asked
"A few guilds we can have a look at to join us others as proxies. One of the most notable is a guild called Titans Hand." The dagger weilder said
The guy on the throne nodded
"Very well XaXa, make contact with those on the list and bring them into the fold, willingly Or otherwise."
The man next to him bowed as if given order by a king
"Yes Sir." XaXa said
The man on the throne grew a manic grin "very well… then." He said as he threw out his hands and sneered "It's showtime!"
(Eoc)
Here we go the end of this chapter and the end of what's been written out as of progressive as such now we are fully diving into original content now! I hope you enjoy and please stick around because now it's going to get real interesting.
And yet another chapter: how do you guys like it? Please comment and as always keep reading-Bankerrtx01-