SAO Integral Factor - Integral Fragments

by Partns

After completing the 75th floor, you continue your journey on completing SAO by reaching the 100th floor. However things are about to change when a few new allies join the team along with a new strange area opening up as you get mysteriously transported there by an unkown source. The world of SAO was changing and it was just beginning. Can you protect everyone and get to floor 100?

5. Chapter 5

Chapter – 5

Hidden soul – SAO Integral factor Missing fragments

You: "Pant" … "Pant"…

Kirito: Whoa, are you okay? You're kind of panting there.

You: I… I am not sure… ever since that strange figure appeared… I could feel my heart beating.

Philia: heart beat? That doesn't make sense…

Kirito: what is it?

Philia: Well… our bodies are digital copies of the nervegear, they do not possess souls or hearts. Even if the figure was having a heart attack in the real world, there is no way he or she would know. They would feel weak or tired, but pain… that doesn't happen.

Kirito: Hmm… I never considered that.

You: But then… why does?

I began placing a palm on my chest when I felt something weird…

You: Wh-what?!

Kirito: what is it?

You: I can feel… I can feel a heartbeat!

Philia: What?!

The two of them begin placing their palms on my chest as their eyes widen to the beat that is slowly felt on my chest.

Kirito: is that… a heart?

Philia: but how?

You: I have been feeling pretty weird lately…

Philia: but, I am still having trouble processing this. How is that you have a heartbeat in this body? That would only be possible if…

Kirito: if this body you possess has… actually become a body.

You: but that's not possible… *I slam my fist into a tree*

As expected, I couldn't feel any pain, nor did my palm bleed. It just showed the red mark in where I slammed my fist.

You: Nothing out of the ordinary here.

Kirito: (You), is there something else you are keeping from the group?

You: I… alright, since you already know about the traitor, I guess I can go deeper.

I then proceed to explain to Kirito and Philia about the secondary soul I possess in my heart that was somehow transmitted by my parents and how it brings unnatural changes to Aincrad.

Kirito: so this soul you possess can somehow alter the reality in this world?

You: that's how I understand it at least.

Philia: but how can a soul possess such energy to do that? Could this be a violation of the laws of physics?

You: Well… Kayaba did say that science would not be able to explain this phenomenon.

Kirito: regardless, are you sure you're feeling alright?

You: I don't know… it's not like I feel sick or anything, I just feel… scared…

Philia: Scared how?

You: I don't know… it's like, the feeling you get when your home alone and it is already pass midnight and the sounds of leaves wrestling and branches cracking that makes you stay on your toes.

Philia: that makes… no sense.

You: Look, what I am trying to say, is that I just feel weird on the inside. I don't know how else to describe it but weird.

Kirito: if you don't feel like exploring, you can go back and Philia and I will continue on.

You: M-maybe it's for the best. Sorry for bailing on you like this.

Kirito: don't sweat it. You go back and rest.

You: thanks, maybe a bit of rest is what I need.

Philia: if you need anything, let us know.

You: you're worrying about me? Is the world coming to an end?

Philia: oh come on, I can be caring too.

You: Alright, alright… guess I'll see you guys later.

Kirito: See ya.

Philia: Bye.

With that, I began heading my way back from the hollow area and began making my way home, I just… didn't feel well.

Floor 76: Arc Sophia

You: "Thump" "Thump" Igh… damn… I can literally feel my heart thumping through my chest… oh man, I hope this isn't dangerous. I am still way too young to suffer—Pffhh!

My face was literally slammed into the back of a figure as I was literally not paying attention.

You: Augh, sorry! Asuna?

Asuna: (You)! You scared me there.

You: Sorry, I've not been feeling like myself lately…

Asuna: I can tell, you're back early than usual. Is Kirito still in the hollow area?

You: Yup, and still willing to move forward.

Asuna: but what about you? Do you feel sick or something?

You: Just tired… nothing like a little rest can't fix.

Asuna: Come on, I'll walk you home.

With that, Asuna and I begin walking down the stalls of the market street as we both talk about our relationship with our partners. As we were mid-way from arriving to the house Koharu and I bought, Asuna was just talking about how much attention Kirito is bringing to himself.

Asuna: and when we were just about to exit the bakery, Kirito bumps into this cute baker girl which humbly apologizes for her clumsiness and then proceeds to clean Kirito up. He tells her that is not necessary but the girl insists, then when she was about to wipe the flour off his face, she puts her palm directly at his cheek and they both stare at each other for more than a minute, honestly, it's like is asking for a death wish.

You: Ehehe, I don't really know how to answer that…

Asuna: Well, whatever. I scolded him about it and he said he was sorry.

You: I don't think there is any need to scold him.

Asuna: why do you say that?

You: Asuna… *I turn to face her* Kirito is your partner… your best friend and your significant other, I don't think you haft to worry about him going out of his way to possibly cheat on you. Do you really think he would do that?

Asuna: Well…

You: its okay to feel this way because it goes to show that you really care about him, but you might want to consider his feelings too.

Asuna: Well, what are you right now? The protagonist of a romantic soap opera?

You: No, Kirito is the protagonist. I'm just a random original character that can change into the appearance of anyone's asset.

Asuna: *she laughs out loud* only you can make me laugh when I am feeling overwhelmed.

You: you just need to relax, it's not like your competition you have will get the better of you.

Asuna: what competition? A girl with pigtails and the body of an eleven-year old girl? A moonlit girl who is too shy to even say hi to a stray black cat? And a cousin whose only asset, and lack of thereof, is her chest?!

Asuna was grinning while she spoke, but I knew… she was mad. If only looks could kill, she would have destroyed all the bosses in Aincrad.

You: Alright, alright, sorry for saying that.

Asuna: Igh… don't worry about it, besides, Koharu has more competition then I do.

You: hey, I'll admit that I have more girls chasing me then the stray dogs who saw me eating a bacon sandwich on my way home, but that doesn't me I have any intention on cheating on her.

Asuna: Ever since I met Strea, I am no longer sure.

You: *I sigh deeply* whatever, anyway, thanks for walking with me.

Asuna: Don't mention it.

You: Where's Yui by the way?

Asuna: Oh, Koharu toke her out for a walk, she was feeling lonely earlier, so she toke her out to clear her mind.

You: Lonely? Why is that?

Asuna: Well... Kirito and I haven't spent a lot of time with her since we both have a lot to do with Raiding gear and dungeon exploration. Yui accompanies us from time to time, but sometimes she is required in different squads due to lack of power, so it's a bit difficult to stay together.

You: Hmm… I see…

Asuna: I will make sure to talk to her though.

You: I think it's for the best, you don't want to fail as a parent, do you?

Asuna: No way.

You: Well, I guess I'll see you later.

Asuna: Bye.

You: Bye—Dugh!

As I push the door to open, it is instead pushed back as it appeared to be locked.

You: What? *I move the door handle* Uh-oh…

Asuna: you forgot your keys, didn't you?

You: Koharu is always home, so… yeah…

Asuna: wanna hang out at my place?

You: What? Oh no, I couldn't ask that.

Asuna: Oh come on, you don't have anywhere else to go. Besides, I insists. With all you have done for me, it's the least I can do. Besides… we haven't been hanging out so often.

You: Hmm… no we haven't…

Asuna: I would really love it if we could have some time for ourselves.

Asuna smiled at me very gently, honestly, it's a smile that would make any man's heart skip a beat.

You: Alright, fine. But if Koharu and Kirito take so long and I haft to spend the night, I don't feel quite comfortable in a couch.

Asuna: don't worry, I will make sure you feel welcome.

With that being settled, Asuna began taking me to the inn Agil was working at, she and Kirito were staying there until they can find a new house.

Asuna's room

Asuna: here we are. Make yourself at home.

You: I will admit, the place you had last time was way more stylish.

Asuna: I know, but it's the best I could afford.

You: better then sleeping in a stable.

Asuna: Have you slept in one?

You: Once. Koharu and I were exploring a unknown area when all of a sudden, night time came around and it was too dark to even see. Luckily for us, there was a stable nearby and we decided to stay the night there… the next morning, we have an angry NPC farmer chasing us with a three hooked rake screaming "Get out of my barn you filthy children!".

Asuna: *she giggles* now that's something I would pay to see.

You: Har, har… you know, I've been thinking and… your right, when was the last time we spoke to each other like this. When there are moments we are together, we only speak about quest adventuring, monster info, map info, but nothing about ourselves.

Asuna: Which is why I invited you to my place, I want to relive those moments from the past.

You: Yeah… maybe you're right, besides, what's the worse that can happen?

Asuna: Right. I bought a lot of stuff back in the market street, so I can make anything you want.

You: Your sandwiches and salad always hit the spot.

Asuna: On it. Feel free to relax, get changed.

You: Oh yeah.

I then begin changing into my normal outfit that I wear when I am not questing. As I do, I watch Asuna as she begin doing her magic in the small kitchen that she has. Not the most stylish or the biggest kitchen she has ever since her old apartment, but it was suitable enough for cooking at least. The last time I saw her in her cooking techniques was when we caught the S class rare item on floor 74, I always wondered what made her so passionate about cooking.

You: Hey, if it's not too much to ask… why did you take an interest on cooking? Did you plan to be a chef at some point?

Asuna: Quite the contrary, my intention was never to cook, it was just… a way of not losing myself… but the thing that caught my eye the most… was in the moment we were about to face the first floor boss…

A few years ago, Floor 1: Toolbana, Asuna POV

I was sitting by myself, isolated by the others as they cheered on with Diabel alongside them. I couldn't bring myself to chat around with them since… I just felt lost. Mito felt the same way, that's why she was by herself as well. That's when he came…

?: Hey, mind if I sit with you?

It was Kirito, coming to sit with me. I didn't feel like taking any steps to befriend him so I made some space between us, but that's when he posed an interesting question.

Kirito: that thing is pretty stasty, isn't it?

I was eating small loaf of dry bread at the moment, so when he said that I was a bit surprised since, it just tastes kind of bland.

Asuna: you think it tastes good?

Kirito: Uh-huh, but I got a trick to make it tastier.

He then brought out an item and said that I should try it with some of it, as I taped it and whip on the bread, I found out that it was cream. I thought it was a bit silly but… after taking the first bite, I… kind of finished the whole thing within a second.

Kirito: I got it from a quest that you must take before arriving here, I can show you how to make it if you want.

Asuna: *I shook my head* thanks, but I didn't come to this town to eat good food.

Kirito: Okay, then why are you here?

Asuna: so that I don't lose sight of who I am. I don't want to lock myself in a room in the town of the beginning and slowly rot away. I prefer to stay as I am until the last moment... I won't lose, to this game nor in this world...

Kirito: Hmm… if it makes you feel a little safer, I know two players that are going to be up front delivering the attacks. His partner might be a bit sloppy but… she has great potential, but the male one… he's got more potential. I know them both and… I know that in the first sign of trouble, they will be there to help out.

Asuna: why do you have so much faith in them? Wouldn't it be wise if you focused on yourself?

Kirito: I do… but it's always good to have someone to rely on once in a while, don't you?

Asuna: hmm… I guess so.

Kirito: If I remember correctly, their names where Koharu and… (You).

Asuna: HUH?!

Kirito: Whoa there, that caught your attention. You know him?

Asuna: I… think so… if it is him then… he's here too?

Kirito: so you do know him?

Asuna: Y-Yes, if it is him…

I thought my mind was making me listen to things I wanted to hear or… maybe a little light of hope finally began to shine inside of me. After that little experience with Kirito, I had a different mindset, as if he understood the pain I was going through.

Present moment

Asuna: After that, I began trying all kinds of different food in different floors and different restaurants. Eventually, I began making food myself and then, next thing you know, I began raising my cooking skill level.

You: So even you were surprised to know I was in SAO too.

Asuna: of course I was, I never would have expected you to play SAO.

You: I always thought of you as a serious person who would rather study than do anything else.

Asuna: Everyone thinks of me like that… but that's not true.

You: How did you get a nervgear anyway?

Asuna: it's actually my brothers, he was going to play it himself but was unable to due to a sudden business trip he had to take, so I ended up borrowing it and before you know it, I began playing SAO.

You: Huh, and I thought I was desperate to play SAO.

Asuna: You might not expect it, but I was really interested in playing games.

You: Hmm…

Asuna: What?

You: You ever stop to wonder, what would have happened if things ended up differently?

Asuna: Differently how?

You: Well... when I was still playing the beta, I met Koharu in a dungeon and saw that she was having trouble holding some enemies off. So I leaped in and helped her, once I did, we made a promise to meet each other again and play together when the game was lunched. My sister said that she wanted to surprise me by showing me that she was a gamer herself and that she wanted to play with me when the game was launched. Kirito ended up meeting you because you were in danger hunting a dungeon with Mito. And as for us… we met each other as I walked down a different path to get to my house… don't you stop to wonder, what would have happened if things ended up differently? Like, what if I knew that you were a gamer and we both would have ended up playing together instead of you and Mito. Or what if I never met Koharu and my sister still logged in after the game was launched and we both would have ended up paired up. Like, what kind of different scenarios would have happened?

Asuna: Hmm… I never did thought of that, because… why would we change anything?

You: Well… I don't know.

Asuna: You know what I think, I think you still have regrets about your past and as a result, you always think about "What would have happened if?"

You: Hmm… I guess you're right. I just… can't bring myself to actually believe or even forgive myself for what I have done. I mean, what kind of person kills his own family?

Asuna: Well… *she begins brining the tray* what kind of person stays friends with that kind of person?

As Asuna places the tray with small sandwich slices along with a small bowl of salad, she begins to pour juice into the cups and hands one to me as she sits down.

You: heh, I guess your right… but do you really feel comfortable being my friend despite everything I did?

Asuna: the past is the past (You), it's best if we focus on the present. Besides… I do owe you my life. You saved me both in game and in real life, I don't believe you're a bad person, just… someone with a dark past. Everyone needs someone in their life and… I don't want to leave you like this when you didn't leave me when I needed help.

You: I guess it does pay to be a nice guy.

Asuna: Don't ever lose sight of that. It's what made all of us be together…

Asuna toke a slirp from her cup as she was also processing the next word that came to mind.

Asuna: And, if it makes you feel a bit more confident in yourself… I have more faith in you then I do with Kirito.

You: What? Pftt, yeah right.

Asuna: No its true. He might be able to overcome the impossible, but… you are a different story. Whatever trouble may come, I believe that you will find a way to get out of it. So I believe, you must have more faith in yourself.

You: Heh, funny.

Asuna: what?

You: Koharu said the same thing… do you really have such faith in me?

Asuna: Of course I do.

Asuna then gets up and sits next to me and places her cup down in the tray.

Asuna: When we were fighting the first floor boss, I could see it. The spirit and passion of your will power, unlike me who was beginning to lose hope in fighting it, you stood up and protected thousands of players from sudden death, especially Diabel's life. If it weren't for you, he could have died.

You: Hmm…

I laid my head back in the couch we were sitting on and… just began to think about everything that has happened… she's right, I did manage to overcome impossible situations, it is why I was given the nickname Integral factor in the first place. Koharu has gotten stronger in her own way as well, not to mention that a lot of lives are still intact thanks to our info… I just hope things stay as they are, at least for a while.

You: You know… I think your right.

Asuna: of course I am, have I ever been wrong?

You: Heh, nope.

Asuna: then don't fight it, just accept it.

You: I guess so. But for now *I grab a sliced sandwich* I want to enjoy this!

As I take a bite from the sandwich, I can taste the deliciousness of Asuna's cooking along with her handmade sauces.

You: You always know how to captures my stomachs attention.

Asuna: and I always enjoy seeing your face of enjoyment.

You: You could teach Strea a few lessons.

Asuna: Strea?

You: Let's just say, I made a deal with her to make sure she doesn't cook again.

Asuna: I think it's best if I don't know.

You: thank you.

"Message notification"

You: Oh? I got a message notification.

It was Koharu, saying that she might not come back tonight because she and Yui are trapped inside a dungeon that only opens during the day, so they're pretty much stuck there until tomorrow, but that I shouldn't worry, because the cave was safe and no monster can respawn.

You: Alright then, I guess that puts me in a bit of ease.

Asuna: coincidently, Kirito messaged me saying that he might be home a little late. Translate it into Kirito's words, he's not going to be home for the whole night.

You: Great, that means I can't go back home until tomorrow.

Asuna: you're free to stay here if you want.

You: But it will just be the two of us, are you sure you're okay with it?

Asuna: I don't mind, besides I know you won't do anything stupid.

You: Igh… well, I could always rent a room at an inn.

Asuna: Oh come on, do you really feel insecure staying the night with me?

You: Alright, alright, I'll stay the night. I can sleep in the couch.

Asuna: I got some spare blankets and pillows you can borrow. Here let me go get them.

As Asuna came back, she placed a folded blanket along with a pillow on the top.

Asuna: they should be comfortable enough.

You: thanks, I really appreciate it.

Asuna: don't worry about it. Come on, let's finish the rest of the food before it expires.

After that, Asuna and I enjoyed a quiet evening chatting and laughing, until Asuna was starting to feel tired.

Asuna: "Yawn"

You: Looks like someone is getting a bit sleepy.

Asuna: Yeah, its already very late.

You: Go to bed. I still have some things to think about.

When Asuna got up, she stood still for a moment before turning to me as I quietly sat on the couch.

Asuna: (You)… *she quietly approaches me* are you worried about something?

You: (I am not sure if I should tell her…) I-I just have a lot of things going through my mind. You don't haft to worry about it. Trust me, im fine.

Asuna: I do trust you (You).

Before I know it, I feel two soft and warm sensations as they wrap my neck. Asuna was hugging me from behind.

Asuna: I just wish you'd trust me… no, you'd trust us more often.

You: it's more complicated than that Asuna… if I'd just knew, I would have told all of you by now… I just need more time to figure this whole thing out… I just hope it won't be too late by then.

Asuna: Whatever it is… just know that you have Koharu, me and all the others at your side one hundred percent at the time.

You: (Oh Asuna… if you'd only knew…)

The fact that she was showing me such affection only made my eager to tell her about the traitor even more… but I already told a member of our group about it, if i begin going by telling everyone about the traitor, then I will never find him or her.

You: Thanks… I needed that.

Asuna: it's like someone I know once told me… *she places a kiss on my cheek* what are friends for?

You: Heh, stealing my lines, huh?

Asuna: *she giggles* goodnight (You), sleep well.

You: You too, Asu.

As Asuna heads to her room, I sit on the sofa and reflect on everything that has happened. Asuna really shows great trust in me, which is funny considering that she's the new strict commander of the Knights of Blood's oath, not to mention the fastest and strongest… and most beautiful rapier user in Aincrad, Lightning Flash. Boy, if anyone knew I had a deep bond with her, they'd probably give me death glares and never let me live it down. Could I really trust Asuna not to be the traitor? I must be suspicious of everyone, Kirito is out of the note because I just saw the traitor and it wasn't him standing there, Philia is also out because I just met her and she was also there when the traitor appeared. Other than that, everyone in our group is still on my suspicions list. If I could just have a clue on how to find it.

You: Whatever… guess I'll sleep.

As I start to lie down on the cushions of the sofa, my eyelids feel very heavy than usual and I quickly fall asleep.

A few minutes later

All I could hear was like an open space ambience and as I open my eyes, I see that I am the in same dream I always see when Quinella wants to speak to me.

You: this place…

Quinella: (You).

You: Quinella! I see your still watching over me… not sure if I should take it like a guardian angel or a creepy person with no boundaries.

Quinella: I prefer to see myself as, an eye that watches all.

You: Hehaha… you can't go with that.

QUinella: How so?

You: let's just say, that there is so much wrong with what you just said.

Quinella: Hmm… I guess I will leave it off then. Getting into other matters, I am sure you realized the abnormalities that are beginning to take effect in this world of yours.

You: Yes… I could feel a heartbeat in my chest.

Quinella: even though the body you possess in this world of SAO has no flesh and bones.

You: yes, and as I am sure you are also aware, we just saw the traitor.

Quinella: Yes, but its voice was disguised.

You: Yes, but it was so close…

Quinella: I was actually capable of hearing a bit more clearly, but it wasn't enough to make out who it exactly is. However, the result I was able to gain, was that it is a female.

You: A female… so one of the female members in my group is the traitor.

Quinella: I'm just speaking hypothetically, it's just a theory. The voice was too sophisticated to hear out properly.

You: Okay… I guess I have some clues now.

Quinella: Also…

You: Hmm?

Quinella: Do you recall the moment the traitor stepped in front of you?

You: Yeah.

Quinella: Well, I have a feeling that it was not there to merely present itself to you. When the traitor walked in, the energy from its own source was much too powerful for it to even contain itself within a vessel, it was powerful enough to even connect yourself with me. I have a feeling that this traitors powers is growing just as yours. It is hard for me to believe… but this traitor may not be as wicked as I thought of it to be.

You: what are you trying to say?

Quinella: The traitor could well be another victim in this game, and if I'm right about this... now I must wonder if we're doing the right thing by stopping them.

You: Wait, are you saying that this traitors actions are good? Even if it is true, he or she wants to kill me. I need to find out why.

Quinella: of course, I didn't mean to come out that way. But I am having a difficult time figuring out if what they are doing is merely for themselves… or for the sake of a different fate.

You: Hmm… regardless, it still goes down to the same topic. I need to find the traitor.

Quinella: Of course. Oh, and before it slips my mind. A strange energy is beginning to accumulate in an unfamiliar spot in Aincrad. I have a feeling that it might those other worldly people you once ran into. I would suggest that you investigate this place since it could hold some more information about our situation.

You: Alright. Guess I have another lead.

Quinella: However, I must warn you. The hidden persona within your heart has grown at a critical phase. If you continue down this path, you might not live the normal life you once knew ever again.

You: Well… I guess fate brings you the hardest challenge because it know you can beat it. Alright, I'll figure this out.

Quinella: Very well. Please… be careful.

Quinella disappears into mist as the sky begins shining brightly until completely blinding me and waking up in Asuna's room.

Asuna's room

You: Augh… crazy dream…

As I begin getting up… I feel very weird.

You: Augh... my back…

As I get up, I stretch a bit to let my bones get back in place.

You: Whew, is it hard to sleep on the couch… wait… *I move my palm* what?

As I begin feeling my palm, I can literally feel a pulse and a hard sensation underneath it.

You: No way… *I slam my fist on the table* Ow! Hugh!

I felt panicked… my body… was an ACTUAL body.

You: What happened to me? What…? *I run to the mirror*

As I looked at myself I the mirror, I saw that I was still the same as I always looked in SAO, but if I was feeling a heartbeat, bones cracking and pain feeling muscles… it could only meant one thing.

You: I've… become an actual living being in this world… what do I do now?

To be continued…

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Authors note: Attention dear readers. If you have been following me until this point with SAO Integral factor, I am very happy to say thank you for all the support but its important to know the following information. In a few days I am going to be leaving the country I am currently living due to family issues. It will not be a move by plane but rather by car, it is going to take a week to get to my destination and I will be exhausted by then. Si it is important to know that I won't be writing for a while. However, that doesn't mean the story is cancelled, but rather taking a short break, I hope you all understand and I will see you all very soon. That's a promise. Bye! P.S: This chapter would have come out five days ago but something happened to that didn't let me pubhlish any chapters until now so I apologize for that... again...