Dungeon Oratoria Online

by asdf1asdf1

DOO is the first game to be created in a long awaited category, a VRMMORPG. Follow Kirito and co as they seek to clear out the depths of the dungeon located beneath the city Orario. However, this game is no mere entertainment, it's a real world, where death in the dungeon means death for your body. The only way they can escape the game is to clear the bottom floor of the dungeon.

3. Chapter 3

Edit (20200831): Updated format to match future chapters.

---

Chapter 3: Chance encounters in the dungeon

Suguha:

"Honestly, these nerds who got trapped deserve it. It's not like losing them is an issue. In fact, its probably better if they all die."

"Take that back!" Whirling to her feet, Suguha roared her words, silencing the noisy room. Glaring daggers, Suguha stared down the source of her rage. Her classmate, Yukiko. With gorgeous black hair and a perfect face, Yukiko was one of the popular girls, and she knew it.

Now Yukiko smiled back at Suguha's enraged form, thinly veiled fear hidden behind her eyes. "Are you talking to me?"

Suguha didn't bother answering the question, "Take. It. Back." The bitten off words sounded near animalistic in their pronunciation.

Leaning back away from Suguha, Yukiko spoke up to the room, "Hey, will someone get this animal away from me."

Unlike Suguha, no one else here had a family member directly affected by the DOO incident. It wasn't surprising really, in a country of 130 million, ten thousand was a drop in a bucket. There was no way every single person knew someone trapped.

Scanning the room, Suguha keenly felt her isolation. Of course, everyone sided with Yukiko. Compared to her, Suguha is simply a shinai swinging jock.

"Oh right, didn't your pathetic brother get trapped in there as well?"

The words sent Suguha reeling back. She knew. This whole incident was intentionally set-up.

Feeling lost after the incident, Suguha had confided in a girl she thought was her friend. What happened to her brother, why she did kendo in the first place. It had felt amazing to get everything off her chest. But she'd gone and told Yukiko, it wouldn't be long until the entire school knew everything.

"Is it true? That he's so pathetic you had to save him from getting beaten by your grandfather?"

The words continued but Suguha heard no more. With a loud drumming in her ears, her vision went red.

"What the hell are you doing!?"

The high-pitched scream brought Suguha back to the present. Looking around her, she was kneeling on the floor fist raised above Yukiko's body. There was bright red blood dripping from her raised fist.

Taking a horrified look at the fallen girl, Suguha stumbled to her feet. Ignoring the terrified visages of her classmates, Suguha stumbled for the door. Crashing into the bathroom, Suguha barely made it to the bowl before tears and vomit came rushing out in streams.

What did I just do to the girl?

Screaming at herself internally, Suguha examined the culprit of the act, her bloody fist. With a relieved sigh Suguha noticed that most of the blood seemed to be her own. The broken skin let loose a constantly refreshing stream.

"Ms. Kirigaya?"

Stomach sinking, Suguha recognized the voice. The Vice Principal. "Here."

Suguha's voice was weak and reedy, she hardly recognized it as her own.

"Would you please step outside?"

"Yes," agreeing weakly, Suguha dried her tears and wiped her mouth. It was time to take responsibility for her actions. Her brother isn't pathetic, he's thoughtful, kind, and amazing with computers. If it's Suguha's job to protect him, then so be it.

Squaring her shoulders, Suguha left the bathroom. Off to protect the brother she loves.

---

Kirito:

"You've grown quite a bit these last few weeks." Hestia remarks as she updates my status.

The warmth in her voice reminds me of my mother, praising me for my accomplishments. Not like there's been many of those in recent years. Grabbing the sheet, I look at the results of two weeks of work.

Kirito

Level One

Strength: G 240 → G 250 Defense: H 150 → H 155 Utility: G 200 → G 208 Agility: G 265 → G 280 Magic: I 0 → I 0

Magic:

()

Skills:

Gilded Hero – Grants the user abilities surpassing their limit in times of great desperation or need. Particularly when aligned with a righteous goal.

"And despite all of this, that skill has only procced once."

"Procced? Oh, you mean it turned on." Quickly getting used to quirks of my gaming jargon, Hestia sat on the couch.

"Hestia… I was thinking…" Stuttering I struggled to get the words out.

"Yes, Kirito?" Hestia asked, patiently waiting for me.

Silently thanking her for her understanding nature, I spit out the words. "Why don't you quit your job?"

"Eh?"

"W-well, with me making more money in the dungeon, we don't really need your income."

Hestia's face seemed caught in a mixture of happiness and disappointment. "As much as I appreciate the offer, I can't. There's a reason I only make 30 valis an hour..."

"Ah, right, the explosion." Remembering the story Syr had told me one of the times I'd stopped by her restaurant. At the North Main Jyaga Maru Kun potato snack stand, a worker had somehow managed to blow up the magic stone oven.

"Y-you know about that!" Squealing, Hestia pointed an accusatory finger at me. "It's not what you think! I wasn't properly trained and…"

Stuttering, the goddess tries to make more excuses but stops when she sees they aren't working. Looking at her though… If she wanted to keep working that was fine, but perhaps a gift.

"Eh? Is something on my face? Wait, I-I'm a virgin goddess, control yourself!"

As Hestia's rambling reached shouting levels, I realize I've been staring intently at her face. Dropping my eyes, I find those. Before I can start envisioning the scenes Hestia accused me of, I rip my eyes away from her entirely.

"Well, I'm off to the dungeon again today. I'll see you tonight."

"Huh? Oh, right. I have to go to work!" Springing up from the couch, she darts out the door ahead of me.

Chuckling lightly, I try to sort through my emotions. Something I was never very good at. They always got repressed and shoved to the bottom. But now, having people to talk to every day like Eina and Hestia, I'm… happy. Yes. That's the emotion I'm feeling.

Deciding my goddess deserved a present I veered away from Babel and entered the shopping district. Standing prominently near the entrance was a famous three floor shop. Belonging to Hephaestus familia, it boasted the best weapons one could purchase. That was another thing about a game designed like with only one city. There was no segregation of the player base by level. This meant that one could go and look at endgame equipment whenever they wanted. A gem I'd discovered in the beta, I'd spend too long drooling over equipment I could never afford.

Gorgeous. Every weapon was presented like a priceless artifact. If you ignored the price tags it looked like a museum exhibit. Eyes scanning the weapons quickly they settled on one in particular. Drawing me like a magnet, it was identical to the one from the beta.

A crimson longsword. Held horizontally, it was the perfect length. Even having never held it, I could tell, it was the perfect weight as well. With this weapon, killing any monster would become trivialized. Nothing I'd encountered, even in the beta, would be able to block it. Etched on the side was proof of its authenticity, Ἥφαιστος. This mark could only be added to weapons which passed muster by the goddess of the forge.

Forged by Master smiths, I'd learnt only a little about the process in the beta. Mainly on forum's at school. I'd read everything I could to optimize my time in game. Due to its realism, the beta testers had claimed that becoming a blacksmith was a fool's errand. It required one to learn the techniques that required years to attain. From judging the correct temperature based on metal colour to the swings required to bend the metal to the smith's will. It was all accurately replicated to a fault.

Doubting anyone would try to become a blacksmith, I finally rip my eyes away from the sword and continue down the street. Now, what would Hestia like. Maybe a more concealing outfit. But would that be too obvious? Also, I have no idea about clothes. Although, maybe Eina could help…

Out of the corner of my eye, I catch a sparkle. Magnetizing my vision, my eyes bring it into focus.

Hair bands. Its perfect.

Hestia's are fraying and these are undeniably cute. Coming with small silver bells and ribbons patterned with sky-blue and white, it was eerily perfect. All of a sudden, I couldn't imagine her without them.

"10,000 valis…" While perfectly affordable it had taken a large chunk out of my savings. Stopping by an apothecary that belonged to one of Hestia's friends Miach, I drained the rest of it in potions. Did the cat girl Nazha seem happier today for some reason?

Dismissing the errant thoughts, I hide my wrapped gift in my 'corner' of the closet and strap on my gear. I'd acquired a light metal chest protector and studded metal gauntlets. In addition to of course, a new blade. Smiling wryly, I think about how this sword is actually cheaper than Hestia's ribbons. That's alright, it will all be worth in the end I assure myself.

Prepped for the dungeon, I make it barely ten feet before I'm interrupted. Stomach growling loudly, I'm thankful no one else is present.

Taking a small detour, I head for the Benevolent Mistress; Syr's café. Over the weeks I'd gone a couple times just to munch on their fresh bread. I'm sure Syr thinks I'm crazy for never ordering anything else. But then again, it took me almost a week to pay back the guild's loan. On top of upgrading my equipment, money had been tight. These last few days, however, everything had started to stabilize. With my equipment holding up well, I rarely had need to repair it. This is why I'd told Hestia she could quit her job.

Also, at 30 valis an hour, 6 hours a day, she was only bringing in 900 a week. In comparison I was making over 4000 a day and climbing.

"Kirito!" Greeting me with a big smile, Syr led me to my usual spot. "Will it be the regular today as well?"

On the verge of saying yes, I hesitate.

Is that disappointment in her voice?

"I'll take a soup as well."

"The special?" Syr asks, a big grin on her face.

Nodding, I give her a friendly smile as she saunters off. She really is a good girl. With nothing to do but wait, I stare outside at the people walking up and down the street. It's surprising how easily almost 10,000 adventurers were absorbed into this city. Actually, were there really 10,000 of us? Maybe Argo will know. Thinking I'd buy the information next time I see her; I slip into a peaceful lull.

"Here you go! Enjoy!" Leaving with a dimpled smile, Syr places my food in front of me and walks off to help the other customers.

Sadness works its way into me. I wanted to talk to her more. What a strange change. Laughing to myself, I think about how I was before getting trapped in here. Getting berated constantly by women seems to have helped. Sighing I only wish I'd taken the time to talk to my family. Even Sugu I barely talked to outside of the kendo practice.

Delicious. Using the bread as a sponge for the broth made it even better. Five minutes it took me to finish. Five minutes of pure heavenly bliss. How was the food so good?

"Hehe, did you enjoy it Kirito?" Looking up, I wonder when Syr got there.

"Yes, it was delicious."

"That's great."

As she smiled angelically, I felt my heart skip a beat. She's so cute.

"You know, if you wanted to show your appreciation. You could always take me shopping sometime?"

"Eh?" Mouth hanging, I had no response. Even if my ability to talk to girls had risen exponentially in this past two weeks, I wasn't ready for something like this. I needed another month, no year before encountering a foe of this caliber.

Trying to get my brain running again, I ran her words through my mind time and time again. She wanted me to take her shopping. Taking it at face value, she wanted me to buy her clothes, right? But this could also be an analogy for going on a date. At least that's what it is in all the anime I watch. But things like that don't happen in real life, especially to me. However, maybe Syr doesn't see me as Kazuto, the mega nerd, but as Kirito, the cool adventurer. Mustering my courage, I decide to accept when…

"Hehe, did I stun you? Oh well, perhaps another time."

With Syr leaving my chance was past. "I'm such an idiot." Groaning to myself I excuse myself from the café.

Looking up at the clear azure sky, the sun hangs right above me. It's noon already. With the massive hole in my pocket from buying Hestia the ribbons, I needed cash. It would be a late night of grinding. Fixing my backpack and checking my sword, I set off for babel. Shoulders squared it was time to face down death yet again.

---

Kirito:

Once again, I found myself staring into one of the entrances to the seventh floor. And like the previous days, I made no motion to enter it. This was because the seventh floor boasted an enemy I was scared to fight, Killer Ants.

Alone they possessed sharp mandibles and a hard carapace. But their most deadly trait was their tendency to group. When they were near death, they released a pheromone that attracted other Killer Ants. This made them perhaps the scariest enemy I'd encountered in the seventeen floors I'd explored. In fact, it was on the seventh to ninth floors most of my deaths had come in the beta. At a certain point my status would be high enough to slaughter Killer Ants in my sleep, until that happened though, death lurked on those floors.

Sighing, I turn away and continue my journey through the sixth. According to the guidelines the guild published, A status of I-H was acceptable for the top four floors. Lower than that, the recommendation was G-D through to the ninth. Floors ten to twelve were a different beast entirely and required a status from C-S.

Since I was sitting at a status of G, it was certainly feasible for me to go to the seventh floor. It would sharply increase both experience and money, and yet, I didn't.

Am I being cautious since death is now final, or am I scared of the monsters?

Even I don't know.

Walking down one of the sixth floor's convoluted tunnels, I encountered monsters. A pair of Kobold Fighters. Rushing me as a pair, I strafe right.

If I could avoid being attacked by both at the same time, the fight would be easy. These are nowhere close to the level of the one I fought on the fourth. Interestingly though, my status is about the same, maybe a little higher. That just goes to show how much of a boost my skill can provide.

Dodge one swing, parry the next, and… Now!

Taking advantage of it being off balance, I swing my foot forward.

Connecting solidly, it fell heavily to the ground. Before either could react, I jab my sword forward through its exposed stomach.

Backpedalling rapidly, I gain distance and prepare for the second one. Enraged by the death of its friend, it loses its composure and swings wildly at my face. Ducking the blow, a backhanded swing finishes it.

Looking at the first one, its still in its death throes. Leaving it for the time being, I extract the magic stone from this one before sauntering back over. Not until the last life leaves its body do I walk over and extract its stone.

Experience tells me that the monsters are most dangerous when you underestimate them. The only safe monster is ash. Risking injury to save ten seconds is a poor choice.

Standing I stretch my shoulders. The weight had continued to grow. Even with my slowly growing strength status, the backpack wears on me. Rolling them, I spare one final look at the new piles of ash and head up.

The first four floors are exactly as I remember them. Packed with grumpy people. Every 50 metres or so a new party sits, waiting for spawns. Glaring at me as I walk through, they worry I've come to steal their prey.

I recently realized my estimate of a two-month average to level up had been extremely optimistic. Due to the caution I've been taking in fighting, even that will be pushing it for me. For these guys… I can only imagine the glacial pace their status has been rising at. They spend most of their time waiting for monsters to spawn.

Furthermore, your status increases faster the stronger the enemies are that you fight, as well as how much you're invested in it. If you're excitedly exploring the corners of a new floor with your party, your status will rise far faster than someone who methodically repeats the same actions. I had doubted this was true in the beta, but it is. Even with my relative lack of exposure to the other players, I still heard rumors.

Walking quickly through the top floors, I emerged back into Babel. Glancing at my HUD, it was just after 5:00 pm. At least Kayaba hadn't removed that. Yet anyways. Walking towards Babel's exchange, I groan. Being smaller than the guild headquarters' one, the lineup was enormous. Should I wait here, or go there… But walking to the guild and back is around twenty minutes plus five to exchange. This lineup is perhaps fifteen tops. Deciding my math probably checks out, I decide to wait.

It turns out, my math didn't check out. I was at the front and ready to exchange in under five minutes. The reason for that… was the small number of magic stones the people had. Another part being that entire parties were in line together just to exchange one bag of magic stones.

Growing nervous, there was no longer any delaying it. I should have gone to the guild. Emptying out my bag, I could feel the stares of disbelief and jealousy. I had close to the total amount that had been exchanged ahead of me.

Taking it, the NPC counted and examined stones for a minute before giving me my money. "3,100 valis."

Pocketing the four coins quickly, I'd freed up an enormous amount of room.

"Hey."

Grabbing my arm, it was one the guys who'd been disappointed by his measly sum. "How? How'd you get that much?"

Looking the fat werewolf up and down, I sigh. "There are too many people in the upper floors to make much."

Leaving it at that, I pull out of his grip and head back to the stairs. Maybe he'd heed my words and adventurer lower. It could kill him, and it would be my fault. But that didn't matter. What matters is that I stay ahead of everyone.

Another five hours in the dungeon should provide enough money. Yawning as I walk down the first stair, I revise that. Four would do.

---

Asuna:

Every hallway was packed. Keeping my head down, I skate past them. The game hadn't been ended on the other side in two weeks. That meant my life was over. It was time to die. I'm sure my cousins would pretend to be devastated. The death of Asuna would cause no one hardship.

"I'm sorry dad, brother."

Whispering my final plea, I head deeper into the place that had already killed so many.

Loki had maps of the upper floors she'd lent me. Studying them religiously as well as Argo's handbook, I was ready for the upper floors. Not that I planned on surviving. I assumed I'd fight until I couldn't any longer. Stay myself until the end. This staircase, this led to the fourth floor, the last floor in the guidebook. According to the author, it was equivalent to suicide to go lower without first raising your status.

Walking its dark halls, fear started to creep in.

Why was I doing this again?

Suddenly my claims about dying and staying myself no longer sounded like good excuses.

Swallowing, I pressed forward. This world didn't offer a real existence. All it did was cost me my future. No matter how good the food tasted, or how magnificent the bath felt, it was fake.

I'd waited until night to creep out of the house. Assuming Loki was asleep, no one else would stop me. Adjusting my bag, I lightly touched it to make sure everything was there. Knife for extracting magic stones, check. Potions, check. The last thing I needed was hanging on my waste, a rapier I'd found in the armory. It was started to rust from lack of maintenance. Having no money, I also couldn't get it repaired.

Well, with the money I make today, maybe I can… Angrily shaking my head, I dismiss the thought. Why am I making plans? There is no future to make plans for.

Crack!

"What the hell was that?"

Scanning the dungeon, terror started to rear. Swiftly looking back and forth, the noise was getting louder, but nothing was approaching. Taking a deep breath, I close my eyes and try to find it.

There! Turning towards a spot my ears swiftly identify the origin of the noise. Opening my eyes, confusion came back. The spot I'd confidently located had nothing special about it.

Crack!

With chunks of rock falling down, my breath hitches. Monsters are born from the walls. My first fight.

First one arm, then two, the dog headed monster pulls itself from the enlarging hole. Drawing my rapier on shaky arms, it's hard to focus.

"Ribbit!"

"What?" Spinning another monster had come from an adjoining passage. It was now two on one. From the guidebook, I swiftly identified the monsters attacking me, a Frog Shooter and a Kobold. Kobolds spawn on floors two through five, while Frog Shooters start spawning on floor three all the way to floor eight.

Deciding the Frog is the bigger threat, I run towards it while the kobold is still extracting itself from the rubble. I close the distance quickly, too quickly.

What is this speed?

The tongue. The Frog Shooter's greatest weapon. Throwing myself to the side, I'm too close. The spear-like projectile hits me cleanly on my right arm.

Gasping, I roll to my feet. A continual throbbing emanated from my arm. Every pulse brought a fresh wave of muted pain.

Diving forward, I try to impale the frog. Jumping backwards, the frog evades my blade with only a tiny scratch. The blade felt so heavy in my hand.

How am I supposed to fight with this?

Standing still, we observe each other warily. I'm faster than it in straight forward speed. But its attack is basically unavoidable for me. Stepping sideways I try to circle behind it.

"Kree!"

Face blanching, I realize my mistake.

I'd forgotten about the kobold.

Swinging wildly, luck saves me. The errant swing is somehow perfectly timed and cuts deeply into the Kobold's side.

"Ahh!" Letting out a yell, I'm knocked to the ground. The Frog Shooter had impaled me perfectly between my shoulder blades.

Getting up unsteadily, breath heaving, I turn to face the monster. Copying me, the kobold is also rising. My swing wasn't strong enough to kill it.

"Am I, going to die?"

Words escaping my mouth, I finally realized something.

I didn't want to die.

I wanted to live, even if the life I'd known up until now was over. I wanted to go back to Twilight Manor and take a bath. Eat the food. To finally get a good sleep. For as long as possible, I wanted to live.

But to do that, I had to win this fight.

"Yargh!" Screaming my defiance, I charge the enemies.

---

Kirito:

"Was that, a yell?" Slowly making my way back to surface, I kept running into more enemies. Most likely because the dungeon was emptier now and so the numbers were slowly climbing back up. I'd encountered some larger parties doing late night hunting as a way of avoiding people.

During this time, I'd encountered the cheer of victory, friendly banter, rage, swearing. Even the frightened yell of adventurers near death. This one was different though. The only thing I could compare it to is the sound I'd made against the wall shadow. The defiant shout of an adventurer who faced death and rejected it.

Feet turning on their own, I followed the sound of combat to its source. Finally, arriving there I could only watch.

The person was horrible, that there was no denying. They looked uncomfortable and sloppy trying to fight. But despite that, it was beautiful. I think I finally understood why Kayaba made this world. What he saw in it. A world where someone could rise up. A world where heroes existed.

Despite their obvious struggle, my feet made no move to interfere. I merely watched breathlessly as both parties accrued injuries.

Finally, with a decisive hit, the kobold went down. It had been gradually weakening from a long slash in its side. However, the player was weakening too, and the Frog Shooter looked fresh. Would they be able to do this?

Fighting through their fatigue, the figure raised their rapier again. A horrible looking weapon. Had they dragged it out a dumpster? An antique maybe?

Dashing forward, my eyes popped open. How could someone with agility that low, move so fast? I'd be hard pressed to keep up.

Did they forget about the tongue? About to call out, I figured out their strategy. Running straight forward, they ducked at the last second. Tongue passing centimetres over their head, it took their hood with it. From it spilled long, chestnut-brown hair. Her delicate elven ears slanted to sharp tips. A pure elf. And she looked the part too.

With the tongue behind her, the rapier flashed out and ran the frog through. It was over. The girl had killed the monsters and won the day.

Roughly extracting her blade, the elf slumped to the ground. Blood continuing to pour from her wounds, she was nearing blackout.

"Do you need a potion?"

Breaking the silence, the girl leapt to her feet. Readying her rapier, she blinked a couple times before lowering it. Flushing from embarrassment, she drew her hood back up.

With her face covered, it was like the lights in the dungeon dimmed. Hiding my disappointment, I handed her a potion. "Drink this."

"I have my own." Denying the offer, the girl struggled to open her bag. Dropped sometime during the fighting, her hands were shaking.

"Are you all…" Before the question completed, the girl fell over her bag.

Finally getting a good look at her back, I gasped. There was a hole through the cloak and clothes beneath it. It was a wound from the spear-like tongue of the Frog Shooter, and most likely the wound that was sapping her strength. No doubt the bruise spread far further than I could see through the small hole.

Opening my potion, I spread it against the marred skin. The effect was less than stellar. Taking a second out of my bag, it followed the first.

Are these potions half as effective for some reason?

As much as I would like to support Hestia's friend, I'm not spending the same amount on potions with half the efficacy.

It seemed to do the trick though. Turning her over, she's still alive. Bringing out a third potion, I winced. 1,500 valis down the drain. Propping open her mouth, I shoved it in. With three potions in her system, the girl seems to have recovered.

What now though? She had yet to regain consciousness.

Nothing like this had happened in the beta. Either you were dead, or you could move freely. Maybe she hadn't slept and was exhausted? Well, there's no point using potions on her then leaving her for the monsters. Propping her head under her bag, I began a silent vigil.

---

Asuna:

"Hrng," groaning, I raised my head. "Am I alive?" I won the fight, right? Then that boy showed up. What happened after that?

"Are you alright?"

Turning my head, he was still there. The same corridor of dungeon where we first met, with him saying the same words.

"What happened?" The words tasted the sweet residue left in my mouth. Did this boy, no man maybe? Feed me a potion. It was too embarrassing.

Averting my eyes, my cheeks heat up. Sitting up, I slowly stand. Everything hurt. A dull pain, but still.

"I healed you and kept watch. It looks like you needed sleep."

Wasn't that the truth. Most nights I got only a couple hours, and even that was restless.

"Why?"

"Why what?"

"Why did you heal me. It would have been easier to leave me to die."

Seeming to ponder my words, the boy scratched his head. "I suppose there were three reasons." Holding up a single finger, he proceeded like he was explaining something to a child.

"First, it was kind of my fault you got you so bad in the first place. If I had helped as soon as I arrived, you could have healed yourself and left."

He had been here earlier? He had watched the fight? Anger building, I listened to the rest of his explanation.

"Second," the boy continued, bringing up another finger, "there were so many inconsistencies in your fight that I wanted to talk to you about."

What the hell did he mean by that?

"Finally, as I had the resources to save you, it would have been murder not to. I don't need someone's death on my hands."

"That… actually made sense." While the first two had been drivel, I could respect the third. Based on the time, I'd been out maybe twenty minutes. Most likely using my potions to heal me, the boy had only lost a bit of time.

Picking up my bag to leave I was shocked by the weight. There in the side pouch were all four of my potions. In the main one… Tens of Magic Stone shards. "Wh-what?"

Picking up on my confusion, the boy explained. "Those are the stones from the monsters you killed, and the ones that came while you were sleeping."

He killed this many!? Who was this boy?

"Do you umm, want an escort to the surface?"

Tilting my head, I observe him. What an enigma. Not once had he claimed he saved me because it was the right think to do. Or that every player would be required to beat the game. He seemed to have pragmatically accepted the situation. So why would he… Then it clicked.

Narrowing my eyes, I glare at him. "Just because you saved me, don't think I'm suddenly going to fall for you."

"What? I just thought you'd like help exiting the dungeon. With most of the players gone it's a long fight back. Also, I know the exhaustion of almost dying. But, suit yourself."

Shrugging the boy started to leave. He had done his job in saving me. Startled, I let him go. Walking forward, I missed a step and stumbled. Falling to the ground, I cut my palms on the sharp rocks.

"Are you alright?"

Again, that same question. I didn't reply to the first two. Guess the third time really is the charm.

"I… would appreciate your aid."

"Of course." Nodding his head graciously I pegged him as a high schooler like me. Some familiarity around women but still nervous. Offering me his left arm, he kept his right free.

Declining the offer, I made it ten steps before stumbling. Stopping halfway to the floor, I glanced sideways. He'd caught me. Blushing I stood back up and accepted the aid.

"Late time to be farming."

Glancing at him again, he looked younger now. A middle schooler who couldn't handle silence.

"Aren't you out now?" I fire back. Maybe talking is better than silently walking while hanging off his arm.

"I needed the money," the man replied cryptically. "Actually, there is something I wanted to ask."

Remembering his second point about why he saved me, I wave him ahead. I can't really say no at this point.

"Why the hell are you using that thing you call a weapon. It's edge it so dull it can barely cut, and it weighs as much as my longsword. It looks like it was part of some ceremonial outfit like a hundred years ago."

Mouth waving, no words came out. Cheeks heating, I had no response. Sure, it was heavy, but I had nothing to compare it to. How much easier would that fight have been with a proper weapon?

"You didn't know…" instead of laughing at me, his expression hardened. "Who gave it you?"

There was no mistaking it. There were flames of anger in his black eyes. Boring holes in me, I forgot how to breath. "I-I chose it myself."

Like a mirage his expression changed. "I see. You probably belong to a bigger familia then."

"Um, Loki."

This time it was his turn to stumble. The lack of support almost sending us to the floor. "You're in that elitist… ah uh, I see."

"Loki is really nice." I defend automatically. Why do I feel such strong feelings about this?

"I'm sure she is," the boy laughed amiably. "I haven't met her."

"Then…" Trailing off, I realize who the boy is talking about. The Loki familia members. "I don't know any of the other familia members."

Why did I say that?

Chuckling, the boy responded naturally. "I wasn't trying to make fun of your familia. I don't know any of them either."

Then who was he talking about? Unless… "You were part of the initial play group?"

Nodding sheepishly, his age seemed to decrease again. "Yeah. I was part of the beta test."

"I see." There's nothing else to say. There was some grumbling about the cheating beta testers in Loki familia, but nothing serious. Most likely a fair number of them were beta testers themselves. Besides, it's hardly their fault. They were just as trapped as the rest of us.

"I know its not my place…" The boy began nervously.

"It's probably not." I agree.

"But I'm going to say it anyway. You have some obvious talent. It would be a shame for you to die pointlessly. You're bound to have some experienced familia members, you should see if you can join one of their parties. Get some real equipment."

"That wasn't nearly as obnoxious as I thought it was going to be." With me giggling at him, his face broke into a pout.

The rest of the trip to the surface passed in relatively peaceful silence. Despite the boy's worries, the monster encounters were far and few in between.

Emerging onto the surface, I felt a breath of fresh air. A sense of relief that I had escaped the dungeon. It was slightly intoxicating actually. Feeling his gaze on me, I look over. "What?"

Shrugging the boy looks away. "You just looked happy for once."

Sniffing disdainfully, I look away. "Well, I appreciate the help today. Perhaps I'll see you around." Disengaging from his arm, I walk away. I could still feel the weakness, but having gotten his help at the dungeon, I could make it home by myself.

"Yeah, see you."

Twisting ninety degrees, the boy was walking beside me.

"Are you following me?"

Tilting his head, he looked at me confused. "No, my familia home is this way."

"Oh." Leaving it at that I turn front and pick up the pace. How many times had I embarrassed myself in front of him now?

Now, however, he was following me at an awkward distance. Slowing down slightly, I walked beside him. It was the least I could do to repay him. We stay that way for ten minutes or so as the street passes in silence.

"Well, this is my turn, see you." Waving goodbye, the boy quickly departed.

"Wait." Calling out, I ask him one final question. What familia are you a part of?"

"Oh." Shifting his feet, he really did look like a little kid. Had I been wrong about his age? "Hestia familia. The name is Kirito by the way."

"Asuna."

Turning around, the boy's black attire made him disappear quickly in the dimly lit street.

Heading for the Twilight Manor, I pick up the pace. I'm staying upright through pure force of will. I don't think I've ever been this exhausted. One last turn and I'm there.

Nodding to the surprised guards, I let myself in. Walking quickly up the stairs, I find my room. I'll shower in the morning. Now, only sleep occupies my mind. But… there's someone there. "Loki…"

The red-haired goddess stood up. Looking at me with a hard glint, I swallow.

"If you wanted to adventure, I wouldn't have stopped you. You have an incredible status. I know you'll be great. So why?"

No tears, no pleading, that wasn't Loki. She was a cunning trickster. An impish goddess who cared for her children. Bowing my head, I had no answer.

"What did you even fight with?" Snatching the rapier away, Loki examined it. "You idiot… You straight dolt! How did you even survive with this!?"

"I'm sorry." That's right. There was another reason not to die. I had people who cared about me.

"As punishment for your actions, I'm taking you on a date tomorrow!"

"Wh-what?"

"You heard me! You have to learn to be more understanding of others!"

Bowing my head, I accepted the consequences of my actions. "As you wish."

"Hehe, a date with Asu-chan!" Loki giggled. Meet me at the entrance at 9!"

Darting past me, Loki's hand came backwards and hit me. Breath escaping, my face flushed.

She slapped my ass.

Wait by date, did she actually mean… Trepidation at the coming day, nightmares plagued what should have been a peaceful sleep.

---

Kirito:

"Loki!" Hestia's fingers stopped moving as I told her of my adventurers yesterday.

She'd fallen asleep before I'd got home. Sitting on the couch, with an open book on her lap. Plates still set for supper I regret making her worry.

"Is there something wrong with Loki?"

"Yes!" Hestia surged. "That two-timing trickster loves making fun of me! And it's all because she's as flat as a board."

"By flat you mean…"

"Yupp! She has no breasts at all. The gods call her Loki no-bits. That's why she always dresses in men's cloths and hits on girls!"

"I see…" I can't help but worry for Asuna after hearing this. Will she survive this goddess? No doubt it was her looks that got her recruited.

"But it was already late by the time you found Loki's child. Why did you stay so long?"

Coming back to the conversation, I had no real answer for my goddess. How could I say I needed to make money because I blew it all on a gift for her?

"Wait, you're not buying her a present to woo her, are you?"

Chortling I get up and put my shirt back on. "Not her."

"Eh? That other elf then, your advisor?"

"Nope."

Biting her nails, Hestia glared at me. "Well what girl then? Because remember as a…"

"Virgin goddess I'm expected to uphold your beliefs. Yes, yes." Finishing her sentence with a grin, Hestia's ponytails started twitching. Like they were live snakes searching for something, or more accurately, someone to strangle.

Fishing quickly into the closet I pull out my present. "For my goddess." Bowing deeply, I try to maintain as formal an attitude as possible.

"Oh. You meant me…" Going scarlet, Hestia hesitantly took the present. Opening it with shaky fingers, the wrapping fell off to reveal the ribbons inside.

"They're beautiful…"

That one expression made it all worth it.

"Would you, put them on me Kirito?"

Nodding, I took the ribbons back. Replacing first one then the second ribbon, Hestia seemed to purr under my fingers. If there was one thing the Nerve Gear didn't do well, it was repetitive textures. Like the feeling of water, or hair. In this case, Hestia's hair must have had the softest setting possible. Its smooth flowing feeling made silk seem rough in comparison. After I was finished, I found myself trailing my hands through her endless black hair. Could something like this actually exist?

"Ki-Kirito!"

"Oh, uh sorry." Flushing I rapidly pull my hands back. First Argo and now Hestia. I'm turning into a full-blown pervert.

Taking a glance at Hestia to gauge her mood, I'm glad to see she doesn't look angry. Embarrassed maybe?

Remembering the status update, I grab the sheet from the table. Apparently, the long hours spent in the dungeon really worked. It's my largest jump in quite a while.

Kirito

Level One

Strength: G 250 → G 262 Defense: H 155 → H 160 Utility: G 208 → G 220 Agility: G 280 → F 300 Magic: I 0 → I 0

Magic:

()

Skills:

Gilded Hero – Grants the user abilities surpassing their limit in times of great desperation or need. Particularly when aligned with a righteous goal.

Despite my defense being low, it was time. Onto the seventh floor. It wasn't necessarily safe there for someone with my status, but it was still manageable.

"Why do you think your defense is growing so much slower?" Hestia asked.

"Things grow when you use them," I explain, "since I rarely get hit, it grows slower. Also, some people are attuned to different things. A dwarf for example, may be able to get their defense to S but their agility would stop growing at C or so."

"Hehe, if only you had a super ability that let you get all of your abilities to S and beyond!" Hestia laughed.

Rolling my eyes at my goddess, I laugh as well. "That would be nice. Probably require a skill though."

"True," Hestia laughed.

Sharing one more moment of companionable silence, we separated for our jobs. Hestia to sell snacks, and me to go to the dungeon.

---

Asuna:

"Are we done yet?"

My voice came out small and weak. I'd resolved myself not to let the game beat me and it hadn't. A red-haired goddess did. Every time I tried to stand up for myself or refuse, she waxed on about the heartbreak my death would cause her. And how I slapped her goodwill in the face.

That was how I found myself walking down the streets of the shopping district in a dress. Face bared to the world, the numerous men stopped and stared as we passed. Apparently, elves didn't show a lot of skin though, so it had long sleeves. This was the only saving grace.

"One more stop!" Loki demanded excitedly. Stopping at the entrance, it was a salon? Pushing me inside, Loki talked quickly to the woman running it. Before I knew what was happening, I found myself seated.

With no mirror, I couldn't tell what was happening. I was pretty sure they weren't cutting it. At least they better not be. One of the stops had been a weaponsmith, and my new rapier was currently attached.

"All done miss."

Standing up I looked around with a frown. "Do you have a mirror?"

"Oh, of course. My apologies."

Scurrying to obey me, I just realized how scared they were. Because of me or Loki though?

"Don't make that expression, Asu-chan! They're gonna piss themselves!"

Scared of me apparently. Taking the proffered mirror from the vibrating assistant, I had to ask. "Why are you so scared of me?"

"W-well. You're an adventurer from another world."

Oh right. "You may address me as Asuna." Smiling at them, I'd hoped the words would calm them.

"Thank you, Miss Asuna." Bowing deeply, they all seemed deeply humbled.

Concealing my discontent, I look at the damage in the mirror. Blue. My hair was a light blue. The color of the azure sky. Or maybe a clear lake. For some reason though, it fit with my elfish face far better than my original.

It was true, with the dress and the hair, I looked like royalty. How had Loki known, though? Casting the goddess an inquisitive glance, she led me from the store.

Moving in close, Loki whispered in my ear, "you match up with your magic now, ya see?"

That's right, my magic. I had a spell I could use. "I just say those words you gave me, yes?"

Face going slack, Loki looked at me in disbelief. "Say you're joking Asu-chan. You're an elf, surely you know how to use magic?"

Feet shuffling, I shook my head at her. "I've never used magic before."

Sighing, Loki hung her head in disappointment. "I had such high hopes for you. Oh well, I'll explain what I can on the way home."

After Loki's somewhat confusing explanation, I felt like I understood the basics of it. "So, I repeat the spell words while focusing my mind. I have to continue chanting the words to the end or I'll lose control of the magic energy and explode. However, once the chant is complete, I can hold it for as long as I want before saying the name of the spell, which is the trigger to release it. Did I get that right?"

"Yupp!" Loki grinned, "at least you're a quick study. I suppose I'll mention it. While it is possible to do things while casting magic, it is incredibly difficult and dangerous. It increases the chances of ignis fatuus exponentially."

Ignis fatuus was the God-given term for when magic runs wild. If someone can't control the magical energy in their body, it explodes outwards violently. This causes incredible damage to not only the caster, but the people in the surrounding area as well.

Noticing my whitening face, Loki continued. "It takes years of practice to get to that level. First, just practice in an empty hallway of the dungeon. As an elf you should have a pretty easy time just using your spell."

Nodding, I didn't trust myself to speak. What kind of insane game punished you this much for screwing something up?

But at the same time, I couldn't rely purely on combat prowess. According to Loki, people had a limit to how much they could grow in each stat. As an elf, my magic would rapidly increase, but it was unlikely my strength or defense would. Based on my skill, Loki estimated that my talent was split between high speed fighting and magic. Only time would tell if she was right.

Finally arriving back at the Twilight Manor, exhaustion crept through my body. Whether it was a residual effect from yesterday, or the stress from this 'date', I wasn't sure.

"Hey, Asu-chan. Before you go running off to bed, why don't I update your status. You put in quite a bit of work yesterday after all."

Nodding blearily, I followed Loki to her room. Standing in the entranceway, I stared at her.

"Well?"

"Well what?"

"You need to take the dress off…"

Blushing, I remembered receiving my falna two weeks ago. The goddess had said it was necessary. Turning my back to Loki, I reach behind my back and start undoing the buttons that keep it up.

"Hehe, please allow me to help!"

Jumping in before I could confirm or deny, Loki's hands undid the buttons with a fervor.

Sliding the dress only partially off, Loki seemed disappointed that it wouldn't be coming further off. "Please lie down Asu-chan!"

"Do I have to?"

"Well, I need a flat back to drop my ichor on," Loki explained.

"Fine." Maybe because lying down like this was too embarrassing, or to spite my goddess, I knelt by the bed. Placing my chest on the bed, I created a relatively flat surface for her to perform the status update on.

"Hmm," Grabbing something from the table in the room, Loki approached from behind. Sitting down behind me, Loki shimmied closer until I could feel her. Tightly pressed up behind me, I went scarlet.

How did the game allow this?

"Oh, your so soft Asu-chan. Is this your first time?"

"What the hell is that supposed to mean!?" I rage. This computer created woman kept stepping on my dignity.

"Ah, ha, just kidding." Backing up a bit, I thought there was a hint of fear in Loki's voice. Like she'd pushed her luck before and gotten punished for it.

Moving the residual strands of hair from my back, Loki began the status update. Five painfully long minutes later, my knees were aching from the hard-stone floor.

"All done."

Getting the approval from Loki I rise and take a look at the sheet.

Asuna

Level One

Strength: I 0 → I 4 Defense: I 0 → I 3 Utility: I 0 → I 6 Agility: I 0 → I 10 Magic: I 0 → I 0

Magic:

Vannforlengelse: Shoots water in the direction of the User's choice. Shape and force of the water is chosen by the user. Volume and power scale with level.

Skills:

Flashing Penetrator: Increases the user's speed when dashing towards enemies.

"Eh? Where is the activation chant for my spell?"

"Here you are."

Presenting it with a flourish, Loki handed over a separate page with the words written out.

"This is the last time I write this out, ya hear me?" Giving me a fake glare, Loki elaborated. "I don't write out the spell because you should have it memorized. Which is the task I leave for you today. If you need a nap go take it. After that, however, memorize that chant. That's essential to using it."

Rolling my eyes, I button up my dress. "I figured as much."

Narrowing her eyes, Loki studied me. "You know, Lind has a spot in his party. You could always join as a supporter for awhile, get experience."

"Supporter?" Encountering yet another unfamiliar term was aggravating. It felt like every direction I turned yet another term was sprung on me.

"It's someone who follows along with the party and gathers the magic stones." Loki succinctly summarized for me. "Often people who find it hard to increase their status become supporters. However, in larger familia's the weaker adventurers often join stronger one's into the dungeon as supporters in order to learn."

"Oh." The bag carriers. In a game where you couldn't store items in a magical extra dimension, it made sense. "I'll be fine on my own. Thanks."

Leaving the room, I headed for my own. Loki didn't stop me.

---

Kirito:

Ant after ant after ant. The seventh floor seemed to have given up on variety and tried to kill me through waves of the things. My backpack was strewn in the middle of ten corpses. A sign that I hadn't gotten a chance to retrieve their stones.

If they had come at the same time, I'd be dead; no doubt about it. Instead it was one or two, coming just as the last one's died. The reason for it was my fault. Due to the hard carapace, I was having trouble killing them in one hit. The gamer side of me was congratulating myself for finding such a good farming technique. The adventurer instincts that were slowly accumulating are screaming in terror.

Running would mean abandoning all of the magic stones, even if I retrieved my backpack before leaving, Staying ran the risk of more coming at the same time, which could be fatal.

Weighing the risk of death versus losing money, the choice was obvious. Nevertheless, I was hesitant to leave. If I couldn't do this, what chance would I have of clearing the lower floors? Without familia members, I'd have to form a party at some point. Otherwise I would be forced to face wave after wave of enemies, solo. That was a massive difference between a lot of other MMO's. It was perfectly possible in those games to hit the level cap playing solo. Here, the number of enemies increased on each floor. Therefore, even if your status increased linearly with the monsters, you'd start getting overrun by sheer numbers.

Deciding that was a future problem, I observe the room. Two ants left, nothing else visible. It was time to end this. Kneeling, I feel around with my hand for what I'm looking for.

The ants rush me as one. A mini pincer attack with few options for evading. Waiting one second, then two, I spring into action.

Throwing the object in my left hand, the body of the dead ant knocks over the one on the left. Dodging the right ant, I take advantage of the opening. My sword finds the gap between its head and thorax. A perfect kill. One left.

Enraged by getting knocked over, the ant lunges. Throwing itself forwards, its mandibles are lined up to cut me in half. Parrying the lunge, the ant is deflected, and I stumble backwards. As it turns towards me, I take a risk.

Normal swings will injure them but are unlikely to kill in one hit. To prevent this, I line up a lunge. Exploding out of my stance, my blade streaks towards the weak point in its armor. The eye.

Twisting, the ant attempts to dodge the blade.

"Too slow."

Taunting the monster, I easily follow its trajectory and adjust my blade accordingly. Sliding into the socket easily, the ant dies. No chance to call allies. Its over.

Looking over the tunnel and the countless corpses only one thought comes to mind. I wish I had a supporter. Collecting the stones from the corpses just seems so… lame. Sighing I get on with the task.

Stretching I glance at the clock. A little after eleven in morning. Considering I'd left the house around nine I was close to two hours in the dungeon. Still too early for lunch, even if my stomach disagreed.

Freezing, I felt eyes on me. Turning I look up and down the passage. The only thing here was piles of ash. But… it was still here.

"Is someone there?"

Calling out, I want to hit myself. I just acted like the person who dies first in horror movies. Drawing my blade, I advance to where I thought I'd sensed something.

"Calm down there, Kii-bou."

"Argo?"

She had walked in from around the corner, but still… I would have sworn she was the presence I felt earlier.

"What are you doing down here?"

Flinching from the sharp words, Argo didn't reply instantly. Instead she looked around at the piles of ash that were slowly fading.

"You're certainly training hard."

Snorting, I didn't buy it. She wasn't surprised.

Looking at my face, she raised her hands. "Whoa, I'm not here to fight you. Would you put that sword away?"

"Ah, my bad." Sheathing my sword, I reassess the girl. I knew she was a beta tester, but she always seemed more interested in information than fighting. What could possibly bring her to a floor that barely anyone had entered.

"Hmm, you did me a favor, so I'll answer your question. I'm here collecting information on the monsters. My guide for floors five and six will go out today, so I need to start the seventh."

"You finished the sixth floor?" I couldn't keep the surprise off my face. That was truly a herculean feat. With all of its interconnected passageways, even I could get lost on it. She was claiming to have mapped the whole thing.

"Eh, well maybe not all of it." Argo admitted. "Just the main passages and ones connecting them. Enough for players to not get lost if they want to explore it."

"I see…" Tilting my head I have to ask her. "You were watching me somehow, weren't you?"

Freezing, Argo chuckled nervously. "I have no idea what you're talking about."

"How much?"

"10 mil."

"Tsk. Keep your secrets then. Later." Giving her a backhanded wave, I started walking away deeper into the seventh floor.

"Hey! Wait up Kii-bou. These floors are pretty intense. You really want to be solo down here?"

"I can handle it." At least I think I can. If I can't… well, I won't be alive long enough to regret it.

"Just stop for a moment!" Hurrying after me, Argo's voice snapped with anger. Maybe a touch of fear.

Sighing, I wait for the fox girl to catch up.

"So, I was thinking. Since you helped last time…"

"10 mil." Cutting her off, I give her a sly smile. "Or something worth an equivalent value."

"You…" Glaring at me, I didn't think the anger was real. "Fine, I'll tell you. But I want your help from floor seven to nine!"

"Works for me. I enter Babel at nine every morning. Do we have a deal?"

Nodding Argo shook my extended hand. "But if you so much as think of touching my ears, you get nothing!"

"Aww."

Rolling her eyes Argo sighs. "Maybe if you're really helpful."

Good mood restored, I skip out to the front. "Count on me Argo!"

"Unbelievable…" Staring slack-jawed, Argo watched Kirito work. It was obvious his status was high, but it was more than that. It was skill and technique. His blade-work was exemplary. If there was one detracting factor, it was the weapon in his hand. By no means was it a bad sword, but it was not equal to its wielder.

"Are you alright with this Argo?" Kirito asked seriously. "With me taking point, I'm collecting most of the experience."

It was true, in the fight against four monsters, Argo hadn't lifted a hand. However, it wasn't like she was getting any more experience beforehand. But telling Kirito that would reveal her secret. Not that Argo thought Kirito would leave once he knew. It was the principal of it. You paid after the service was delivered.

"Go for it. I'd be even more in debt to you if I decreased your growth."

Grimacing, Kirito scratched his head. Most likely to say something about how he didn't mind. He really was too soft.

"Save it Kii-bou." Argo sighed. "I'll be here for backup if you need me."

"If you say so…" Resuming his position at the front, Kirito still didn't seem happy with the situation.

What Argo could do about it was little.

Coming to a T-intersection, Kirito immediately turned right, barely glancing down the left turn for monsters.

"Hold on," Argo asked with a frown, "what's down the left passage."

"Pantry."

"Ah," that one word explained everything. A pantry was where the monsters congregated to eat. It was filled to the brim and suicide to try and farm in. If someone was strong enough to do so, they could simply venture to a lower floor and make more money off the larger magic stones. There were very few practical reasons to visit one.

Distracted by the thoughts, Argo walked straight into Kirito's back. "Hey, what's the… mhmf!"

"Quiet!" Kirito hissed, his hand on Argo's mouth muffling her words. "Something's coming."

Back going ramrod rod, Argo wondered how she missed it. She had the race with more sensitive eyes and ears and yet she'd failed to notice the signs. A product of zoning out. Losing concentration in a place where a lapse in judgement could be deadly.

Focusing her ears, the distinctive sound of many footfalls came clear. "Should we run?"

Kirito made no reply only loosing his sword from its sheath. "Aren't they people though?"

Indeed, Argo had to agree they weren't Killer Ants or Frog Shooters. But both Wall Shadows and Kobold Fighters walked on two legs and could make such noises.

"Fuck this game!"

The reverberating shout confirmed Kirito's assumption. People were coming this way, and right behind them. A monster party.

"Let's book it, Kii-bou," Argo asserted. That was a pack of Kobold Fighters as well as a full complement of Purple Moths and Needle Rabbits.

"No," Kirito denied, "They have an injured member, they'll never make it."

Tsking irritably Argo knew he was right. "Fine. I'm going to use this before they get close enough to see."

With Kirito watching her curiously, Argo began to chant.

"I am the unseen.

Rendered in shadow, I hide."

Sparing a brief glance at a bewildered Kirito, Argo tried to focus. Failing the cast would be really lame.

"Let light not find me.

Let sound not betray me.

God of darkness, God of subterfuge.

Grant your power to my undeserving body."

Gritting her teeth, Argo forced herself to speak the final lines. The magic energy in her body was threatening to overwhelm her.

Through me let your work be wrought.

Hide in plain sight, Master of Deceit."

With the trigger spell finished, Argo took a breath. Only the name of the spell now.

Helm of Darkness"

With the spell finished, Kirito wondered if Argo had screwed up. Then, the light seemed to bend around her. Shimmering like a mirage, Argo disappeared.

Stunned, Kirito could only stare at Argo's last known location. She was good and truly invisible. No, wait. Focusing on her, Kirito could indeed see inconsistencies. Patches where the light didn't quite agree. Spots where a shadow flickered. Against monsters of this caliber though, she'd be invisible.

"Wait for the other party to pass," Argo commanded for the shadows. "The monsters will attack you."

"Aye aye," Kirito accepted. It was a very dangerous position to agree to. He was relying on his abilities to be able to hold off an entire monster party while Argo thinned their numbers.

With the other party finally approaching, Kirito drew his blade.

"Hey boy! We found some monsters for you!"

"You can thank us later!"

Half carrying their injured member, the party didn't even slow down. In the beta this was known as a pass parade. A technique as old as MMO's themselves. Gathering a long train of monsters and dropping them on some unsuspecting soul.

"Just make sure you get out alive!" Kirito shouted as way of parting. There would be no point to him doing this if they just ended up being killed somewhere else.

As predicted, the monster's killer instincts activated. Homing in on whomever is nearest and attacking; the mind of a monster is quite simple.

Readying his sword in a high stance, Kirito waited. A quick count revealed six Kobolds, four Moths, and two Rabbits. The possibility of more spawning couldn't be discounted.

Three Kobolds charged Kirito at the same time.

Not letting them pincer him, Kirito dove at the one on the right. Surpassing its guard, the sword broke through its magic stone. Rolling hard right, Kirito took only light scratches for his effort and evaded the poison spray of a Purple Moth.

Unfortunately, there are too many enemies. A Needle Rabbit locked in on his location and lunged.

Raising his blade to deflect it, the action proved unnecessary. The monster was cut in half while in mid air.

Too easy, Argo thought to herself. Already she'd cut down a Purple Moth unnoticed. Burying her claws into the Rabbit made a second. The monsters turned to her location and paused in confusion. Nothing was there. They all relied on sight to find enemies. And when Argo used her magic, sight failed. She still didn't understand how Kirito had noticed her. But that was a discussion for after.

Picking her way across the battlefield, Argo found the second Rabbit and cut it down before it could finish flanking Kirito. The horns on their heads were wickedly sharp, and penetrated deep. With them dead the threat was significantly reduced.

Claws through the back of a Kobold's neck. Through the eye of a Moth. Her magic brought her great power, at great cost.

Already Argo could feel the exhaustion clawing her mind. An encroaching darkness that called to her. According to her god, Argo's magic was a double-edged sword. The quick cast time made it easy to cast, even in a battle if necessary. On the other hand, it took a disproportionate amount of energy to even activate. It could be kept active for long periods of time, as long as Argo didn't kill anything. As soon as she did, this happened.

Gritting her teeth, Argo pushed through. One more Kobold then she'd turn it off. Pushing off the ground, Argo lined up her claws with its neck. Passing though easily, she killed her sixth enemy. Two of all varieties.

Stumbling roughly to a stop, Argo's magic ended. Like syrup running down the edge of a bottle, the darkness faded at roughly the same speed. Unfortunately, the exhaustion stayed. Turning back around, Argo prepared herself to fight.

Her efforts were rendered unnecessary. Using the confusion Argo created, Kirito was massacring the remaining enemies. A couple swings later and they were the other things left breathing in the room.

Sheathing my blade, I ignored Argo for now. I needed more time to wrap my head around her magic. Instead, I busied myself with extracting magic stones. Argo had been doing this up until now, but the repetitive motion was exactly what I needed to think.

Finishing the task, I walk over to her. Opening my mouth, I say the only thing I can think of. "Here are your six." Having broken the stone from the first kobold left me with five.

"You're taking this well," Argo commented drily.

Scratching my head, I try to come up with a response. "I'm just thinking that the beta testers discounted magic too quickly. What power, and from such a short chant."

"Hehe, well there's quite the cost when you use it offensively."

Sighing, I shake my head at the girl. "I'm guessing any more would require money?"

Rolling her eyes, Argo explained. "No, you've already seen it, so I'll explain what I know."

"Ah…" After hearing the explanation, I weigh its benefits mentally. Despite the insane advantage it gives you fighting, its far better as a stealth tool. This is what Argo was using to map the solo floors solo.

"Apparently, us Renarts are known for their sorcery." Argo laughed. "They naturally possess crazy forms of magic."

"I'm starting to think its worth the harassment."

"Perhaps," Argo snickered. "And you know the best part? I can cast it on other people."

"Eh?" I must have misheard her. That's simply too strong. Especially if she can cast it on multiple at once.

"Well, we should continue exploring!"

Walking past me and my fried brain, Argo got ten feet before stumbling. Getting a severe case of déjà vu, I stood there as Argo collapsed.

"Why is it always me?" My complaint echoed through the seventh floor, doing nothing to solve the problem.

---

Asuna:

"Rise and flow. I am the Master of Water, servant of Neptune.

Rise and obey. Destroy those who obstruct."

Focusing, the memorized words flowed from my mouth. Standing in the corner of dungeon, I practiced my magic.

"By my will, I give you life. By your will, I wield it.

Chosen not given, I call. Answer my prayer and heed your duty."

Sentence after sentence, verse after verse. The spell waxed on. This was accompanied by a building pressure in my body. This must be the magic energy Loki talked about. Cancelling the spell now would result in catastrophe. The only way out of this was to continue.

"Wash away the rabble and purify the streets.

Put out the fires and drown the nonbelievers"

The building pressure was oppressive. My body had no sensation left in it. Movement was impossible. The slightest step would cause me to lose it. Forcing myself forward I finished the spell.

"Blessed of the Undine.

My name is Necksa!"

Finally, finished.

"Vannforlengelse!"

Looking ahead, I noticed a goblin had spawned. It was rushing me, and I hadn't even noticed. Oops.

"Kree!"

With one last pitiful shout, the goblin ran into my spell. Water exploded into being with the force of a fire hydrant.

Hitting the goblin, it disappeared down the tunnel, blasted by the force of the water.

"Oh right, I forgot to shape it." Frowning I think about how I can improve it.

While I thought I'd memorized it, the words rolled off my tongue slowly when I actually did use it. Worse, I didn't even realize an enemy was coming.

Loki had called my magic a medium length cast. It took me a little over a minute to complete. With practice, probably forty seconds. Still, a long time in a fight where I can't move.

Frowning I walk towards where the goblin went. The wet path leaves a trail that's easy to follow. About thirty metres down I encounter the wall. Plastered to it is the goblin, or what's left of it. Its chest was crushed by the force of the water. The impact from hitting the wall, sent its eyes out of their sockets. The realism is terrifying. Using one of those knives that Loki provided for me, I quickly take out its stone so that it dissolves into ash.

Looking back and forth down the corridor, this place looks as good as any other. Sticking my hand out in front of me, I start chanting again.

---

Kirito:

"Damn it, Argo!" Cursing the girl, I drop her body on the floor rather harder than necessary.

Sitting on the Ground beside her, I look at her fallen form. Mind down most likely. I was shaky on the details since magic was used so infrequently in the beta, but there were rumours. Since there is no MP bar, using magic drained some invisible value. If you didn't properly restore it, this happened. Mental shutdown.

Looking at my body, I groaned. The cuts were closed by the potions, but my battle cloth was in shreds. It was like the dungeon knew I was vulnerable and sent wave after wave of monsters. With Argo passed out I couldn't let any past me. This forced me into an untenable style of defense.

Eventually I had to call it quits, pick up Argo and run. Back on the fifth floor now, everything should be fine. With the increased traffic here, less monster parties spawn, and decreased monster strength, it was many times easier to protect her here.

Frowning down at her, the real issue is the time. Its been over thirty minutes since she first passed out. How much longer would I have to wait? Alternatively, I could carry her to the pharmacy in Babel.

Still mulling over my options, a noise came from down the tunnel. Focusing on it, the sound of talking and metal boots proceeded them. Right, increased traffic. Still, there was nothing to fear from them.

Glancing at Argo, I realize that isn't quite true. Her hood hides the ears, but the tail is still clearly visible.

Silently apologizing to the poor girl, I try to hide it. Grabbing the soft appendage, I attempt to force it under the cloak. Just when I start to applaud myself for my good work…

"What the hell are you doing?"

An angry voice berates me. I ran out of time. Standing up I turn and face them. "Yo, what's up?"

"Get away from that girl, you monster!"

Considering it from their perspective, I understand how it must look. They watched me do something to an unconscious girl's lower back. I'd probably come to the same conclusion. Unfortunately, I can't let them approach Argo as they would discern her identity. However, not letting them do so would basically prove I was doing something to her.

"I won't say it again!" Drawing his sword, the man's eyes are filled with murder.

Scratching my head, I still didn't have an answer. This never would have happened solo.

"She's my party mate." Even to me the words sound unconvincing.

"So, it is a real girl!" One of the men in the back spoke. "We kind of assumed but…" The desire and lust in the man's voice was palpable.

I knew now these six were not getting past me. "Keep walking." Glaring at the leader, I identified him as the one who needed convincing.

"I don't think so," the man glared right back at me. "I'm not leaving you here to rape that girl!"

"We're in the middle of the dungeon you idiot!" I growl right back. "I'm protecting her while she recovers."

"If you have nothing to hide then back off and let me check on her."

I hate it when people use logic against me. "I'm afraid I can't do that."

Narrowing his eyes at me, the man assumed a fighting stance. Holding a longsword in a high position, he wielded a shield in his left hand. "I'll give you five seconds to leave."

Drawing my sword, I'm unsure what to do. As long as they didn't blame beta testers, then Argo would be fine. But could I risk her safety to avoid this fight? No, I couldn't. Raising my sword, I duplicated his stance.

"Would you shut this guy up Kii-bou? I'm trying to sleep."

Freezing, we both turn towards the girl. Argo was slowly stretching, waking up from a nap.

Stepping forward, the leader seemed to have lost all interest in me. "Excuse me ma'am, but we came upon this man doing untoward things to your body. Did he have your permission?"

Lightly giggling, Argo gave me a bone-chilling stare. "Oh, don't you worry. He's paying well."

"Huh?"

My confusion was apparently lost in the commotion Argo's words caused.

"Damn bastard!" Yelling at the ceiling, the man from earlier was cursing something.

"I-I see," the leader stuttered. All of a sudden, he seemed to desire to be anywhere but there. "I am Lind of Loki familia, would you like an escort to the surface."

"L-Loki familia!" my stuttering shout would no doubt bring monsters down upon us. In the meantime, though, people actually bothered to look at me.

The leader, Lind, sneered at me. "So, you've heard of us have you. Our progress is inspiring the people of the game!"

"Uh, right."

"And I don't need an escort Lindy-boi."

Wincing at Argo's rude nickname, I wait to see how Lind would react.

Nodding at me, he turns back to Argo. "Since you are insistent, we will leave you here." Turning back to me, his gaze was trapped between analysis and glare. "As for you, we will remember you. Put one toe out of line and I will show no mercy."

Waving his party forward they continued through the comparably bright hallways of the fifth floor.

Being left alone was both a blessing and a curse. Examining the now empty hallway I briefly consider fleeing. That would definitely be a bad decision. Making an info broker mad is a horrible idea.

Glancing at Argo, I measure her reaction.

"Calm down Kii-bou, I'm not angry."

"Eh, really?"

Why do I say stupid things? She should be thanking me for protecting her.

"Yes, really," Argo insisted rolling her eyes at me for the umpteenth time today. "I hope you coped a good feel though, cuz that's your payment for saving me."

"Wait, no, I didn't." Stammering, I'm sure I looked like a child. "I mean, your tail was soft."

"It is at that," Laughing at me, Argo took it out of her cloak and swished it around.

"Hey, wait, how are you controlling that?" Mind finally locking in on the detail. I should have remembered it from the time she pulled me down the alley way.

Shrugging, Argo smiled at me slyly, "I just can."

To exemplify the point, she rubbed it against my cheek.

So soft. I basked in the feeling for the second it existed. Closing my eyes to enhance the sense of touch. Something was pressed against my back. Argo? With my backpack against the wall, my back was open. Freezing, I held my breath. Had she been lying? Was she actually going to kill me?

Mind going a million miles a second, she pressed herself against me and wrapped her arms around me. My mind froze in a screeching crash.

What is happening!?

"Thanks again, Kii-bou. First you helped with the first guide, now with the third; and you saved my life to boot." Emitting a dry chuckle, Argo kept her head buried in my back.

Slowly, my mind started running again. That's right, Argo's human too. Just a girl ripped from her previous life. Covering her cold hands with mine, I rubbed them slightly. "Hey, we're friends, aren't we?" Forcing myself to laugh, it sounded hollow to even me. "Besides, what kind of man would leave a cute fox girl to die?"

Tensing up, Argo released me. "Well that's certainly one way to ruin a moment," Argo grumped. "I'm going to head back to the surface, you coming?"

Despite grumbling, she didn't sound upset, at least I hoped she wasn't. "Yeah, I'm coming. Oh, and I didn't um touch you. I just tucked your tail in your cloak to hide your race."

Argo simply shook her head and sighed. "I know that Kii-bou. You can barely talk to women. Let along touch one without her permission. I suppose that's another thing I need to thank you for."

"If you tell me what familia you're in, I'll call it even." I'd been curious for awhile, but now I finally had a chance to learn it.

"Hehe, I joined quite the character. Hermes familia. We have all the oddballs. Well maybe not all, Loki got some."

"True that." Smiling at Argo, she smiled back. Maybe it was foolish of me. But I no longer saw her as an info broker that robbed you blind. She was a friend.

---

Asuna:

"What the hell...?"

Everything hurt. But mainly my head. The throbbing pressure was unnatural. Most likely an artifact of using magic. The too dark hallways were in a constant dance of blurring and focusing. Also, the dungeon appeared to be in a consistent state of spinning left.

Putting one foot in front of each other, I concentrated on the motion of walking. That boy, Kirito, wasn't here. This time, passing out would be fatal.

All in all, I had to admit this was a fair price for the raw power that magic provided. Every cast I was getting more adept at shaping the flows and bending it to my will. This was a good thing I tried to convince myself, now I know my limits.

None of it helped. The edges were blurring.

Where were people when you needed them?

It had taken forever to find somewhere they weren't. Now, when I wanted them, I couldn't find any.

Wait, why were the tunnels this dark? I was on the fourth floor all day, wasn't I? Breaths coming faster, I started to panic.

Am I lost?

I would have sworn I was going the right way. But I was watching my feet and I…

Biting my lip to try and concentrate, my head won't leave me alone. The brutal pounding of hammers, driving the sharp pain further and further in.

This is a true migraine.

Was the NerveGear making this? It's possible pain in the brain is unblockable due to it originating here in the first place.

"Oh, that's a wall."

Giggling to myself, I laughed at the absurdity. I walked into a wall. Wait, that wasn't supposed to happen. Focus! I commanded myself. But it was a losing battle. Loki told me to join a party and I didn't listen. I ran off on my own and would die on my own.

Maybe that Kirito would join me. He was a bit of a goof, but I'm sure I could mold him into a respectable servant. Wait, pet? Friend? Boyfriend? I'm not sure I knew what the difference was at this point.

I guess it would never happen anyway. My feet were still moving but the wall I was looking at wasn't changing. That's right, I'd never stood up. But since I'm laying down, I'll take a nap.

Closing my eyes, the pain drifted away slightly.

Why am I laying down?

I need to leave the dungeon. No, sleep. That's right, why shouldn't I sleep? Finally, free from expectations, from responsibility. The sweet call of freedom beckoned me.

Gritting my teeth, I pushed myself. "I refuse to die laying down!" The slightest movement caused searing pain to shoot through my body. "I will not quit!"

Pushing back to my feet the dungeon swam across my vision in endless circles. It had gotten infinitely worse. Yet, through the pain my determination burned brighter than ever. That's right.

I was going to return to Twilight Manor, have a shower and crash. In the morning I was tracking down that Kirito guy and making him teach me the game.

Pure agony. It was unbelievable. The more I pushed on the more convinced I was it had nothing to do with the game.

Is something happening to my body?

"When I escape here, I'm going to tear whomever is touching my body to shreds!" Howling my determination at the dungeon, I stalked forward. Through my red-tinted vision, I thought I made a mistake just now, but I don't care.

Idiots!

Did they think they could outdo Kayaba? My brain had locked unto one possibility while trying to flee the pain. People were currently trying to activate the Nerve Gear's automatic logout function. Besides the sleep logout, which was automatically turned off, the Nerve Gear will only disconnect for one reason. If it can't properly sync with someone. By injecting a steady stream of drugs, one could theoretically disrupt someone's logic circuits enough to trick the Nerve Gear into thinking there was an error and rebooting.

It would never work. If it did anything, it would activate the kill switch. "Idiots."

Mouthing my displeasure finally reminded me what the error I made earlier was. Monsters are attracted to sound.

At the end of tunnel, the shadows lengthened and solidified. I hadn't finished Argo's second guidebook since I didn't think I'd be going that far in. However, this was undoubtedly a Wall Shadow. Spawning starting on the fifth floor, it spelt death.

There was no way my practically empty status would be able to match this thing. Even fighting at 100% I'd lose. Squaring my shoulders, or at least attempting to, I faced death.

Swiping back and forth horizontally with my rapier was the best I could manage. Stumbling backwards, I hoped I was getting to higher floors, or at least people. Walking forward had been manageable since I could stare at my feet. Walking backwards was not. The rough uneven ground covered with shards of rock was hazardous normally. With the room spinning, a pounding migraine, and an enemy attacking, it was untenable.

Falling down, I took another swipe at the Wall Shadow. It dodged it easily. It was time for me to die.

Taking advantage of my mistake, the Wall shadow pounced. Bending its knees, it pointed its claws at my heart and leapt. Praying, I stuck out my rapier. A final flimsy defense against this monster.

With tremendous force, the monster hit me, the claws cut easily through my outer robe, impacted me, and stopped. These merciless cutting instruments, forged by the dungeon to slaughter adventurers, were completely blocked.

The armor Loki had picked out for me yesterday. But why did she have such high-quality equipment sitting around?

I'd have to think about it later. The Wall Shadow needed to die first. Raising an arm, I block the next obvious target, my face. Only, it isn't moving.

Moving my sword to take advantage of the unmoving foe, I realize why. It embedded itself on my blade when diving for the kill.

Pushing it off myself is a herculean effort. My head was still in shambles. Was it getting worse? It's hard to tell.

What comes next? Oh, stone extraction, that's right. Strangely, this mental conversation with myself is helping me work though the pain. First you take out the knife, then what? You put it in your bag. Or am I missing a step. Why is everything black? Maybe I'm laying on the Wall Shadow. Groaning I can't work up the energy to push myself up. Did those claws do damage after all? Based on the principal of the conservation of momentum, I could die with my armor in perfect condition around me. Maybe my ribs are crushed?

"Asuna?"

Was someone there?

"Looks like a Wall Shadow got em."

The sad voice was female, and I think the first one is Kirito. Maybe I am hallucinating.

"Not you too…"

Was something touching me?

"She's still alive Argo!"

"Eh? What do we do with her?"

Not so loud please. Comforted with the fact I probably wasn't hallucinating, I succumbed to the desire that had been haunting me forever now. I let myself pass out.

---

Sugou Nobuyuki:

"Damn it! Wake up!" Screaming at the unconscious girl, Sugou Nobuyuki beat the metal railing on the edge of the bed. He'd risked everything to do this. The rate of death these past few weeks had been staggering. Along with everything they knew about the game and heard from the beta best, it was being described as unbeatable. The Japanese government had told loved ones that they should attempt to make peace with never meeting the trapped ones again.

Clenching his hands, Sugou looked at the heartbeat monitor, over 170 and climbing. Reluctantly, Sugou stopped the intravenous drip. It was a truly monstrous concoction. Psilocybin, Heroin, anything that could disrupt mental processing and had no known adverse affects with the others.

Hands shaking with rage, the man was moments away from losing it. He had been perfectly fine letting Asuna rot in the game. In fact, it may even be preferential as it would allow him time to work her father into a marriage between them. She couldn't say no if she was in a game. However, using his resources, he'd heard most upsetting news, Asuna had begun entering the dungeon. The data that could be retrieved from outside was sparse. The one thing that was clear is that the negative value in Asuna's z-coordinate could only refer to one thing, the dungeon.

Taking the bag of drugs, Sugou shoved it into his coat. He'd need to dispose of it secretly.

"Sir!"

Whirling around, Sugou was greeted by one of his two closest compatriots. "What is it?"

"Kayaba just dropped more information. In a month and a half, 2,000 more Nerve Gears will be allowed to connect to the server."

"What?" There were many things Sugou would have to figure out. But for now, Asuna would wait. Stroking her pretty brown hair, Sugou left the room. "Tell me everything."

---

Author's Note:

Thanks for reading another chapter!

I'm shocked by how many people read and liked the story! Thanks a lot for your support :)

Were three times passing out too many? Maybe :P

We also got some original spells! How were the chants? Bad, probably.

Oh well, I tried.

Secondly, there will be no chapter next week as I won't be around and I'm reaching the end of my pre-written material.

Lastly, I believe that the NerveGear has no sleep logout. Oh, well.

Hopefully you enjoyed it at least.

See ya later,

-asdf

PS. Obviously I'm leaning more towards an ALO Asuna than an SAO one.

PPS. I think I forgot to say something somewhat important...