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.

11. Chapter 10

Authors's note:

Hello all,

Welcome back.

I'm posting this early because I'll be busy this weekend.

Also, I realize some of you are upset about how Kirito has been treated.

Well, things start to turn around for him this chapter :) kind of.

See you on the side.

---

Chapter 10 – What it Means to Climb

Kirito:

"Are you sure you should be up?"

Honestly no. I felt insanely weak. As I always do after using my skill. It didn't matter though. I can't take the look of pity in Hestia's eyes anymore.

"I need to make sure everyone is alright." Announcing my intentions, I begin my slow walk to the stairs up and out. Hestia had gotten help to bring me back home. The incident from yesterday evening still haunted my mind. My utter inability to do anything.

"I should come with you!" Moving to stabilize me, I shake off Hestia's hand.

"No," I reject her, shaking my hand. "I need to do this myself."

"Why?"

Standing right before the stairs, Hestia's question is a good one. What is it that's compelling me to do this by myself? Nothing solid, merely a feeling. Or maybe it's pride.

"Sorry goddess, I have to."

Offering no further explanation, I begin the trek up the stairs. Every step feels like an impossible challenge. Leaning heavily against the wall, I raise first one foot, then match it with the second.

"Umm… Kirito?"

Flushing, I keep myself moving. "I'm fine."

After what felt like a millennium, I finally get up the stairs and out of the church. The sky is painted red with the setting sun. It's been a whole twenty-four hours since the ambush. Sighing at the wasted time, I begin walking. Having managed the stairs, the flat ground is a little easier. Heading north, I meander my way to Miach's shop. The closest destination.

As the shop steadily comes into view, my nerves only grow. Philia had been in a bad condition. The memories are hazy, but the blood pooling around her feet is still fresh in my mind. Pausing, I stare at the entrance to the shop for a while. The prominent closed sign reminds me that Miach has a familia house somewhere else.

"Hya! Hargh!"

Ears perking up, I catch the sounds of grunts and yells of someone in combat. Ignoring the front door, I walk through the narrow alleyway that leads to the back. Surrounded by a tall fence, this is where Nazha grows a majority of the herbs she uses in the potions.

"Hahh!"

Now that I'm closer, the voice is definitely Philia's. Continuing past the fence, I locate the back gate. Knocking on it, I hear the sounds of physical exertion stop.

"Who is it?" Philia's voice has a twinge of suspicion in it.

That's only to be expected though. Getting a knock on a gate late in the evening isn't typical. "Kirito."

"Kirito!"

The sound running is followed by the gate being flung open. Philia's panting form is soaked in sweat, her shirt and shorts plastered to her skin. Ripping my gaze from the tantalizing form, a knot of fear loosens at the fact that she's alright.

"You're alright!"

"Huh?" Not having a moment to prepare, I'm knocked to the ground by the impact. Head colliding with the paved alley, the red sky swirls before my eyes.

"I was so worried!"

Chuckling lightly, I have no answer. All I can do is reach an arm up and rub her head. The soaked hair is faintly disgusting to the touch, but I force myself through.

Pushing herself off me Philia holds her body above me. Meeting her large eyes, my cheeks heat up staring at her. Slowly I'm becoming more and more aware of our body positions.

"P-Philia?"

"I'm so sorry…"

"Huh?" Once again, I stupidly mutter my noise of incomprehension as to what's happening.

"I let everyone down." Philia begins, large tears welling up in her eyes and dropping on me. As they fall on my cheeks and roll away, I do nothing to stop them or wipe them away. "I was too weak to fight them off. I'm not a great fighter like Rain and you. I don't have awesome magic like Asuna. I'm-I'm nothing!"

Breaking down at the end of her speech, Philia lowered her head to my chest and sobbed. Her shaking form was a pathetic sight. It reminded me of myself.

"You're wrong."

My quiet words bring Philia's sobs to an end.

"I'm the weak one, and I've done nothing to change that. Less than a day later you're working yourself to exhaustion trying to get stronger."

Shaking her head against my chest, Philia silently denied my words. "You aren't weak. You're so strong, always protecting us."

Starting to grow angry at the morose girl, some part of me wants her to tell me I'm weak. To confirm what I already know. "I'm not. I gave up yesterday. I knew I couldn't win so I gave up."

There it is. My secret from yesterday. There's no way that Philia will still support me now.

Lifting herself up, Philia searches my face. Initially averting my eyes, I don't want to see the disgust there. The disappointment. But I have to. Forcing my eyes to hers, all I see in them is sadness.

"Oh Kirito." Lifting one of her hands, she runs it along my cheek to my hair. "I wish you could see yourself through my eyes. Through any of ours."

"W-what do you mean?" I stutter back. Why is she taking this so calmly? How had she dealt with the pain from yesterday and kept moving forward?

Tilting her head, Philia considers my question. "On second thought, maybe not. It would be bad if you figured out exactly how uh…" Trailing off, Philia's cheeks turn a color matching the sky. "Eep!" As if just realizing her position, Philia peels herself off me. Quite literally as her sweat ridden clothes had begun to adhere to my skin.

Taking a few steps back, Philia stumbles and falls to the ground. Based on her gaunt face, the exhaustion must be catching up with her.

Groaning loudly, I push myself up so that we are both sitting on the cold stone.

"I uh, I'm sorry. I d-didn't mean to push you down and then umm…"

Good mood returning slightly, I poke fun at her. "Seemed pretty intentional to me."

"Well it was, but ah, nevermind." Blushing even harder now, Philia lowered her head to the cobblestones, but through her bangs, I could see her upturned eyes examining me.

Staring briefly back at Philia I find myself having to avert my gaze yet again. If I stare at those large blue eyes any longer, I'll get pulled in.

"Hey Kirito…"

"Yes!" Yelping almost pathetically, I'm confused why I'm so nervous now. I can almost hear my heart beating erratically in my chest.

"Do you want to… you know, help me train?"

As she's talking, Philia starts moving towards me. Not standing up first, she moves with deliberate slowness on all fours.

Moving drying out, I can't get out an initial answer. Training. The word sounds so innocent. So innocuous. After all, why shouldn't I help Philia out when she needs me?

"Hey Philia, are you done yet?" Walking out of the back door, Rain has a clear view of the two of us through the open gate. "Kirito!"

"Urg!" Getting slammed into the stone floor for the second time, the sky is now bordering on black. It's too late for me to visit anyone else.

"Grr…" Growling softly, Philia shoots daggers at Rain's oblivious back. "All I needed was another minute…"

Shaking my head, a smile grows on my lips. I may only understand a fraction of what happens, but if they're willing to put up with my ineptitude, then I'll always be there for them.

---

Babel's top floor:

"Is this true?" The goddess' words are filled with sadness bordering on sorrow. Standing at the balcony looking out onto the world she was being filled in by her familia members on what had transpired. The disappointing information caused her far more sorrow than anything else had in the past year. She'd been so sure in the boy. That he'd rise up and defy all expectations. That he'd begin to shine brightly.

Sighing heavily, the noise caused her two followers whom were present to flinch. Their very souls ached at the thought of having been the ones to deliver the news that made her make this sound.

Tapping her fingers on the balcony, the girl lost her divine aura. In its place was left a sulking teenage girl. "Hmpf! Can't believe he'd just disappoint me like that!"

"I can still go back and finish the job goddess!" One of the men volunteer, the catman whom had fought Kirito.

"No," Freya grumps, agitated tapping picking up speed. "He may still prove himself yet."

"As you say…" The catman replies, disbelief in his voice. Watching his goddess walk around, he got to witness a new side of her that he'd never seen before. The side when her conquests fail. Either when she's unable to get the person she desires, or when they fail to live up to her expectations.

Strongly resembling a sulky teenager, Freya acted with all the dignity of a girl whose first crush turned out to be a drug dealer, or some other unwelcome revelation. It would take the goddess weeks to fully get over it. Like the wind continues to blow though, she would. For like the wind, Freya's love was constantly shifting. Some may get more time with it, but eventually it would leave. An intangible force that no one can claim as their own.

"The second summoning comes soon." The second man in the room reminds her. Standing tall beside the door, Ulfric had merely overseen the plan, not participated in it. It was his position as captain that allowed him to remain present.

"Yes," Freya sighs. "I hope there will be at least one person in it worthy of my attention."

"None of us are worthy of your love goddess Freya."

"Hehe, you're so cute Ulfric. I made a good choice with you."

Bowing his head, the captain accepts the compliment.

"I just can't believe," Freya starts again, content to gush about the failed plan, "that while his companions were bled in front of him, that he gave up."

Tilting his head, Ulfric looks confused. "They weren't though."

"Excuse me?" With just those two words, Freya's aura returned with a vengeance. Not her normal one, filled with love. This one was cold, the jealousy of love taken too far.

"I-I did goddess!" The catman insists. "We kept the boy away from his companions while my helpers steadily inflicted injuries on them."

"And then?" Freya asks, her eyes promising retribution if the wrong answer is given.

"He activated his skill, got out, and helped his companions to escape." The catman murmurs, as if just now noticing his mistake.

Gritting her teeth, Freya revealed true anger. Something very few people have ever seen. Or at least seen and lived to talk about. "I wanted you to be plunging your spear through one of those silly girls' backs while he watches!" Freya all but screams. "Get out!"

Face blanching the catman has no response as he dashes from the room, throat tight with terror that today would be his last.

Standing there impassively, Ulfric took the events in calmly, not allowing himself to be shaken. Even as his goddess struts angrily around the room, a display he hadn't seen in a year.

"We leave him alone for now," Freya eventually spits. "Regardless of how they failed to carry out my test correctly, the boy still failed. He'll need to do something else if he wants to get my attention."

"Yes, my goddess."

Oblivious to the events in the tower, Kirito's fate changed dramatically according to the whims of a goddess.

---

Kirito:

"Kirito!"

"Kii-bou…"

"Hey guys." Waving at them, a nervous Asuna and Argo meet me at the entrance to the dungeon. "I wanted to visit yesterday but didn't have time."

"That's okay…" Murmuring her response, Asuna's arms were doing a strange motion in front of her. They were opening up and then closing again. Almost as if… Getting flashbacks to how Rain and Philia had greeted me yesterday, I suddenly understand.

Deciding it's only fair, I open my arms in clear consent. Smiling widely at Asuna, I zone out all other noises.

Looking at me up and down, Asuna doesn't rush forward as I expected. Instead, her face goes bright red. "Wh-what do you think your doing!?"

"What I'm…?" Did I misunderstand. As confusion sets in, my arms begin to lower.

"I'll take it!" Rushing forward, Argo latches her arms around me.

Surprised at the different occupant, I return the motion, rubbing her back softly.

"Thanks for not dying Kii-bou." Almost missing the quiet words, they return the guilt from before. I hadn't considered any of their feelings before throwing my life away.

"Fine!" Letting out that one word, Asuna marches over to the pair of us. Stopping a couple feet away she examines the two of us.

"Umm, Asuna?"

Giving me a brief glare, Asuna walks behind me. Keeping my head forward I wait for whatever punishment she's decided on.

Not a moment later, I feel her slender arms wrap around me, just below Argo's. Her head rests comfortably between my shoulder blades. "I'm so sorry."

"Asuna?"

"If I had my weapon. If I wasn't so weak…"

Gasping lightly, I can feel Asuna's tears staining my cloak. Mouth pausing, I don't know what to tell her. That even if she did have a weapon, it wouldn't have changed anything? That just sounds like an insult.

"Well, well, what do we have here?" Just like that, Rain breaks the mood before I can say something.

The girls jumped away from me faster than if I was electric.

"Nothing!" Asuna assumes immediately.

"I don't know about that…" Rain replies, scratching her cheek. In her eyes an evil gleam twinkle. "Looked to me like Argo and you were double teaming Kirito like Philia and I did yesterday…"

"D-double teaming!" Asuna shrieked.

"Yesterday?" Argo asked, narrowing her eyes in suspicion.

"He didn't tell you?" Rain asked in confusion, tilting her head. All the while she casually wrapped an arm around my waist.

For some reason, twin glares were focused on me. Mouth working soundlessly, I glanced back and forth between the two factions.

"Oh, cut it out." Philia moans. Reaching out, Philia tugs on Rain's hair eliciting a series squeaks and Russian curses. "Nothing happened yesterday." The words are clearly for Asuna and Argo's benefit, but as her cheeks heat up, the denial becomes suspicious.

"Oh really?" Argo presses.

"It's true," I chime in, supporting Philia's claim. As the girls' analyzing gazes examine me however, I find myself repeating Philia's response. Cheeks heating up under the scrutiny, I know how guilty I must look, but I'm innocent! Although, Philia had been on top of me…

"Ki. Ri. To."

Gulping, Asuna's punctuated words are one of the most terrifying experiences in my life. That is including almost dying multiple times.

"I was just teasing you two. Geez." Gripping her hair, small tears are in the corners of Rain's eyes as she glares at Philia. "Since I forgot to ask yesterday, and everyone else seems to have forgotten, is Syr alright?"

Nodding, I realize I hadn't told them about her. "She escaped uninjured. Ganehsa familia found her at the end of the alleyway gagged and bound."

"That's good at least," Asuna murmurs. The reminder of the that evening dampening the mood.

"It's so weird," Argo complains. "I mean, what are the chances? They kidnapped the only non-adventurer and let the goddess go!"

Shaking my head, I deny Argo's conspiracy theories. "None of the native adventurers will dare harming a deity due to the potential retribution in the afterlife. Syr was only kidnapped as a method to draw me… Us, into the alleyway."

"Yeah, who were they?" Rain asks grumpily.

"And what did they want?" Philia adds on morosely.

After the questions, a tense silence falls over the group. All I can do is stand there, no answer for any of their questions.

---

Asuna:

"My name is Necksa!

Vannforlengelse!"

Letting the spell go, I feel my mental energy flow away, as the spears of water penetrate their targets. Having encountered a monster party on the tenth floor, we retreated for me to get my spell off. Or, kited them, as Kirito called it.

Tracking the spears, they easily deal with the large orcs and usually challenging bad bats. The ones my spell struggles with are the imps. The small creatures are so low to the ground that the horizontal bolts often sail over their heads.

As I watch, a whole pack of imps, seven in total, form up after my magic fades. Frowning in disappointment, I can't help but feel like I should have been able to get them as well. In the back, a pair of Hard Armoreds rise from the grass, shaking off the water dripping down their backs.

Tsking angrily, I glare at the creatures which have the gall to survive my magic. With how easily it tears apart the massive Orcs; it seems wrong that these creatures would have a method with which to survive it.

"I'll deal with the Armoreds." Prepping his shield which had spent most of the day slung across his back, Kirito approached the Armadillo monsters.

Meanwhile, the rest of us turned towards the pack.

"Let's do this." Stepping forward, Rain brought her dual swords to bear against the seven nimble creatures.

Frowning at the girl's forward nature, none of us argue against her. More and more I find that Rain is taking the position of second-in-command within the party. Argo's laidback attitude and Philia's lack of confidence disqualified them. The only other option then was me. Between us the logical option is Rain. Nonetheless, something about it irks me. Some strange feeling that this is bringing me further away from my goal.

"Help me Asuna?" Rain's questioning voice is a little tight with stress. No doubt being surrounded by seven imps as Argo and Philia attempt to flank.

Flushing, I rush in to help Rain out. My musings put one of my party members in danger. And I thought myself a leader. Covering Rain, my jabs with the rapier had more range and did better at preventing the imps from enclosing.

"Hah!" Exhaling as she lunges, Argo managed another successful flank. The fog worked against the imps as often as it hindered us.

"Hiyah!" Following Argo's distraction, Philia takes down a second.

Taking advantage of the confusion, I lunge at a third. Fueled by my skill, the streak of steel neatly impales the small creature.

"Good job everyone!" Congratulating us, Rain's blazing swords bring down the final four imps in three swift strikes.

"Well done," Kirito murmurs, walking back towards us. The corpses of the two Armadillo monsters testifying his victory. Despite that, Kirito's face is twisted.

"Did you get injured?"

Rain's question finally brings comprehension. I can't believe I couldn't figure that out on my own. Flushing even brighter, I probably look like I'm running a fever.

"Ahh, I suppose." Kirito admits. Although reluctantly. Going to return his shield to his back, Kirito stops with a grimace. Instead he lets his left arm drop and casually lets his shield fall.

"How bad is it?" Rushing over, I feel a sudden spike of fear for the boy.

"It's nothing," Kirito insists blushing. Turning away he reaches for his potion pouch. "I just need a potion and I'll be ok."

"Wait," I command. Stopping him from using the potion, I begin prodding his shoulder. "Can you raise your elbow parallel your body?"

Obeying my commands, Kirito winces performing the feat, but succeeds.

Nodding, I give my judgement. "It's not dislocated, but you strained a tendon. This requires a hi-potion to restore."

Blinking at me, Kirito doesn't say anything. Belatedly, I realize I have everyone's eye upon me.

"Where the hell did you learn that?" Argo inquires in a gruff voice.

Blushing, I lower my gaze. "I've been getting lessons from my familia members after returning. Adventuring Basics 101 they call it."

"Are you sure this requires a hi-potion?" Kirito asks despondently. "I think it's starting to get better."

Giving him a deadpanned gaze, his feeble motions as he hides his winces only makes me more confident in my judgement.

"Fine," Kirito grumbles. "Farewell 7,800 valis."

As one, we wince sympathetically for the boy. We've rearranged our income splitting to be fairer, but still, as the only familia member, Kirito is very poor. These aren't potions he can lackadaisically use. On the other hand, being reduced to one arm for the rest of the day, may end up killing all of us. At this point I know Kirito well enough to confidently say that he'd never put us in danger for any reason.

"So, how'd you injure it?" Philia inquires.

Based on Kirito's expression, it's not a story he wants to tell. "The Armoreds are heavier than they look." The words are quiet and spoken in an embarrassed tone.

Under the combined force of all four of our glares, Kirito shrank even more.

"Look, I needed to know, alright!?" Biting back a little, the embarrassment on his face hasn't faded, but the look in his eye was one of determination.

"Know what?" Argo asks exasperatedly, taking the bait.

"Whether I can stop one of them if need be," Kirito explains with a shrug of his shoulders. "I underestimated how bad my defense stat is."

I want to get mad at him for his reckless move, but I can't. All I can feel is the budding joy in my stomach. Every time Kirito pulls one of these crazy stunts, it's always for us. Us. How I wanted that to be me. Looking away from the group, I stare into the fog as my confusing tumble of emotions renders me inert.

Trying to clear my mind, I shake my head. But the action does nothing as I continue along with the party. Suddenly, I feel very out of place here. Glancing at Argo, I wonder if she feels the same way. In a sense we're the two leeches, feeding off the poor familia's efforts to make money and get stronger.

I keep waiting for Argo to tell us more about her familia, but she never does. Hermes familia. The name causes many of my familia members to scowl in annoyance. The eternally neutral god does everything and takes no sides. Even though suspicions swirl through my mind, I have to force back my own tears. For I feel like a stranger in a party in which I was the first official member. Even worse, I understand why.

---

Kirito:

"Hey Eina." A weak smile is all I can do to assure my worried advisor. Based on her expression, she knows something about what happened two days ago.

Returning my small smile, Eina doesn't say anything, yet her eyes speak volumes. The fear in them that I'd been injured is painful.

"It's alright," I assure her. Sitting down in the consultation box seat, I let out a large sigh. "I'm alright." The quiet words are unconvincing. I try to tell myself they are true.

"Do you want to tell me about it?" Eina's quiet words hold no expectations within them. If I say no, she'll respect that.

Opening my mouth to start, I sharply close it. All the times I've relied on her before keep bubbling up in my memory. It's pathetic. How can I expect to protect anyone when I need to confide in Eina to deal with my problems?

Reaching over the table, Eina suddenly grabs my hands. Looking me in the eye, her sparkling green orbs possess a pure beauty that holds my attention.

"You have that sulky look that male adventurers often display when things go wrong," Eina tells me softly. "I won't think any less of you for opening up. After all… that's why I'm here."

The final words seem sad for some reason, but they still soothe me. Eina's right, I need someone to talk to. Someone who wasn't there and isn't involved.

"I felt like a fake in the dungeon today." There. I spoke the words. Tensing my shoulders, I'm unsure how Eina will react. Laugh probably.

After many moments of silence, I hesitantly look up and onto Eina's contemplative face.

"Can you elaborate on that?"

Chewing, I try to muddle through the thoughts. The events of two days ago have become unimportant to discuss. What matters now is my ability to move forward as an adventurer.

"I made so many mistakes today," I admit. "I don't think my party noticed; or noticed much anyway. Every time I entered a fight, I was really nervous and over-evaluating every move I made."

"I see," Eina replies, balancing her chin on her entwined gloved hands. "Can you give me an example?"

"W-well, there were two Hard Armoreds that I went over to deal with. The rest of my party was handling a gang of imps. When they balled up at me and began rolling, I suddenly doubted my ability to dodge. I used my shield instead to deflect them and ended up injuring myself."

"Thank you, Kirito, I'm sure that was hard for you."

Blushing, I lower my gaze. Strangely though, it hadn't been hard. It was liberating getting it off my chest. I think my lie had convinced everyone, so I'm glad at least Eina knows the truth.

"It's time for you to make a choice Kirito."

Head whipping up towards the girl, her sad voice has commanded my full attention.

"You need to decide whether you want to stay on as an adventurer. I've heard rumours pertaining what happened to you, and while I don't know everything, I can tell you some things. First, it was most likely a group testing your power based off your duel with Garim. Someone who had barely been an adventurer for one month defeating a seasoned warrior is sure to draw heads. Therefore, I think you're going to continue to draw attention if you stay as an adventurer. You're going to need to focus intently on your goal and pursue it, regardless of what it is."

Even with Eina's older sister demeanor, a small blush of self consciousness suffuses her cheeks.

Lowering my gaze, I focus on where our still linked hands sit. The stabilizing presence was so calming I had forgotten about them.

"Oh, my apologies." Following my gaze, Eina removes her hands. Repressing a sigh, I pull back my hands, which quickly go cold now that they are alone.

"What do you think I should do?" Talking for the first time in a while, Eina's speech hadn't given me any answers.

"I think you should follow your heart," Eina confirms with a smile. "I remember five weeks ago, when you were in here. If you want to get back to your world Kirito, then go. But… if that no longer holds your heart… You'll still have my support."

Yet again, I feel tears welling up in my eyes, mirrors to Eina's. Sniffing, I wipe them on my sleeve. When did I become such a crybaby? "Thank you Eina, for everything."

"You've made up your mind then?"

"There was never any other choice," I tell her with a smile. "You've reminded me of that."

"Kirito!" Eina shouts at my back as I prepare to leave. "Remember, an adventurer shouldn't go on adventurers. Alright?"

Giving her one final smile, I leave the consultation room. Like a hot spring, or some magical zone of healing, I walk back to my familia home rejuvenated with my back straight and confident. I can still feel wounds of the past two days, but they no longer drag me down. Instead, I can feel them hardening into a scar that will propel me even further ahead.

---

Hermes' familia home:

"Welcome back Argo, did you have a lucrative day in the dungeon?"

"Yes Hermes," Argo replies with a sigh. This exchange has become a daily occurrence between the two of them. Grimacing, Argo recognizes that it's all her fault as well. She'd poked her nose where it doesn't belong. And now what? It was approaching the time where she'd have to leave Kirito's party. As much as she enjoyed travelling with him, she had familia duties.

"Hmm, so I've been thinking…" Hermes began, with that small secretive smile of his. "That after you hit level two, I could really use your services in the familia."

"I understand, my God." Argo answered in a sulky voice. She knew Hermes was being far nicer than he could be. However, as her time with Kirito drew to a close, she still hadn't told him anything.

Every now and then she caught Asuna giving her a sideways look. More than likely she heard rumours about Hermes familia from her familia. It hurt a little that Asuna didn't ask about them. On the other hand, Argo had also proffered no information.

"So, the mighty Argo has finally returned." The sulky voice belonged to a chienthrope girl with long brown dog ears. Despite her looks, she was one of the Familia leaders at level three.

"Lulune," Argo's answer is curt, and borderline insubordinate. Yet she doesn't have the motivation to provide a proper answer. Argo could claim she didn't know what she was getting into when joining the familia, but she had specifically scouted out and joined Hermes Familia because of the rumours surrounding it and how it operated. In a way she didn't understand when she joined. She thought it would be a game, not her life.

"Is that all you have to say?" The girl sulks. "You know, I used to be carefree like you. You'll change when you experience losing people."

With that ominous statement, the dog girl walks away.

"Ah ignore her," Hermes chuckles slapping Argo on the back. "She's just upset that the recruits from the other world aren't filling into their positions as quickly as she hoped."

"It's just…" Argo trails off. "I'm still adjusting to what familias really mean."

Nodding his head in sympathy, Hermes seems to understand. "This world is structured differently than yours. I've travelled all over and have seen many different cultures. I can assure you though, that you will find a home here."

Bowing her head, Argo was humbled by Hermes' words. It wasn't until after the final footsteps of her god had faded that she walked down the hallway towards her room. As she stared at the luxurious walls, she couldn't help but contemplate how none of the people in her party really understand what being part of a familia meant. Regardless, after this attack on Kirito a couple days ago, they were starting to figure it out.

Going directly to bed, Argo was subjected to an uneasy sleep, filled with nightmares. The dead faces of her party members stared at her accusatorily. They needed her, why wasn't she there? The next moment, her dead familia members came and accused her. There was no winning solution. No answer to please both. There was only the correct thing to do, honor her ties to her familia.

---

Kirito:

"Ah, I'm late again!" Cursing I stand up from the bed quickly. Too quickly.

"Ahh!" Letting out a quick yell, Hestia was flipped off me and unto the ground with a solid smack. Holding her head in with both hands, tears began to well up in her eyes.

"I'm so sorry Goddess!" Rushing over, I help her sit up and rub the spot where she impacted.

"Jeez," Hestia complains. "You're in such a rush lately."

"I guess I am," I reply breezily. Standing up, I don my shirt and equip my gear. It's rare for me to go into the dungeon on a Saturday, but I convinced my party to form today. There's something about today… It's special.

Subconsciously, I know why I've been so excited lately. The days following my talk with Eina were revolutionary. It was as if my whole perspective of the dungeon was somehow altered. It became less about the monsters themselves and more about what they represent. We blazed through the eleventh floor and had spent yesterday on the twelfth. Now, the one word on the tip of my party's tongue was level-up. Almost taboo, I can see their looks every morning, wondering if it had happened.

Soon. That was the feeling I was getting. Any day now I'd be hitting that milestone.

I can do it. I can keep climbing. To become strong enough to protect everyone. To catch up to her.

"Bye Hestia!"

"Wait! I didn't even transcribe your status…" Trailing off, Hestia could do little more than sigh before I could no longer hear her. Face spread into a smile, I jog all the way to the benevolent mistress.

"Hey Syr!"

"Kirito!" Just emerging from the café, Syr greets me with a large smile and the picnic basket.

Taking it from her, my good moods shrinks a bit. There's still that lingering sadness behind her eyes. For some reason she continues to hold herself responsible for what happened to me and distances herself. Despite my efforts she's been reluctant to forgive herself.

Smiling, I bid her farewell. Making a note to myself, I think I'll bring everyone to her store for a celebration later. We need one for all the success we've been having in the dungeon.

Walking along the road, my good mood continues to sour. For some reason Asuna and Argo have continued to grow more… distant. Asking did nothing and there was no one I know who could give me the answer. At this point it honestly felt like a three-person squad in Rain, Philia and me with two tag along adventurers.

Pursing my lips, I studied them from a distance. Since all of us came from northern Orario, we had changed our meeting location to the park outside the northern entrance. The volume of traffic going in and out of the dungeon had hit an all time high. Even the first few days paled in comparison. I'd been told this was because many of the native adventurers had left the city like Asuna's familia during the ban. Since its original duration was two months, only now were they getting back.

Breaking off from my musings I approach the assembled girls. Similar to past days, Rain and Philia chatted freely with each other. Argo stood off to the side with a sad expression, and Asuna stared neutrally towards to the dungeon.

"Hey everyone, sorry I'm late."

"You should be," Rain sniffs, "After all, this was your idea coming here today."

Bowing slightly to the four of them, I apologize for my tardiness.

"Let's get to it then, shall we?"

Shivering from Asuna's words, she'd barely flicked her eyes to me when I'd shown up. I don't know what happened between us, but a wall had risen up.

"Wow," Rain mutters, "I thought you were a water mage, not an ice queen."

Snorting in derision, Philia quickly covers her mouth from the comment. She isn't the only one as Argo tries to contain her mirth.

For once Asuna turned her piercing eyes in our direction. The twin chestnut orbs sending daggers at Rain. However, Rain stared back unaffected by the assault.

Sighing, Asuna gave up the battle first. "You don't understand. None of you do…" Sending a quick glance towards Argo, I can't help but think that Asuna considers her an exception.

Putting a hand on Rain's shoulder I mouth at her to give us space. Catching up to Asuna, we walk side-by-side for a time, a considerable distance between us and the rest of the party.

"Hey," laying a casual but firm hand on her arm, I stop her from walking.

"We're already late," Asuna intones in a dull voice, refusing to stop.

Swallowing fearfully for what I'm about to do, I tighten my grip on her arm and prevent her from continuing.

Giving it a couple of useless tugs, Asuna eventually stops, still refusing to look at me.

"Why?"

The one quiet word appears to break Asuna. With a vengeance she turns around to face me, tears streaming down her cheeks. What she had been trying so hard to hide from us. Finally, as I look her head on, I see what I've been missing. What's been in her eyes for a week now, fear.

"Don't you realize yet?" Asuna spits harshly. "I'm endangering you. You're better off without me."

"W-what do you mean?" Voice cracking under the strain, I'm blown back by the change. I'm unable to wrap my head around what's happening.

Gripping my shoulders with both hands, Asuna lightly shakes me as she leans in. "These people attack you because of me… Because of my familia… I can't stay…"

"What…?" This time I perfectly understood the implications behind Asuna's words. She was leaving the party.

"I'll come today, but this is it…" Trailing off, Asuna's hands slowly slip off my shoulders and fall to her sides. Hunching her shoulders and staring at the ground she looks so small, so vulnerable.

I want to wrap my arms her, tell her it's ok… But I don't. I can't. I'm still too shocked.

Hesitantly, the other three arrive into this scenario as Asuna's tears have finally stopped.

"So… what's happening?" Philia asked hesitantly.

Pausing, I consider. "I think that after we get out of the dungeon… We should all go to the benevolent mistress to celebrate."

"Celebrate?" Asuna asks weakly, pain in her voice.

Shrugging my shoulders, I clarify, "Well, you're moving on to greater things, and we've doing so well in the dungeon, I think we could really use it…"

Nodding their approval, we head into the dungeon for the last time as a five-man unit. Out of the corner of my eye though, I catch one look at Argo's face. Her devastated expression, and eyes full of pity. Not directed at Asuna, but me.

Walking along, I maintain a stoic expression to hide the pain inside. Asuna… Gone. I could see the shadow of despair ahead but ignored it for now.

Past the top floors, through the killer ant floors, not a word was spoken. Our ominous train was completely silent except for the crunch of our boots on the rock floors. Even for what we'd describe as a weekend, the dungeon was busy enough that we barely saw a monster. The main passageways in particular were cleared entirely.

Entering the tenth floor, I finally broke the silence, "so, what floor do you want to farm on?"

"I don't see why we wouldn't do the twelfth again?" Rain asks drily. No one misses her pointed gaze at Asuna.

"I agree," Argo adds, speaking her first words of the day. "More income and better falna."

So, with that our decision was made. Bypassing the branches on the tenth floor, we made our way to the closest entrance to the eleventh. Skirting around numerous parties, the tenth floor was packed. Nowadays it wasn't only native adventurers down here, off-world ones too.

Watching them fight, typically under the guidance of one of the native adventurers, mixed emotions swelled within me. While I'm happy people are starting to get more comfortable in the dungeon and make it deeper, I'm also losing my lead over them. As a single person familia, if I don't have strength on my side, I'm vulnerable to everyone.

As these thoughts cross my mind, a strong surge of resentment swells within me. I'm in the dungeon practically everyday doing my best, and it seems so futile now. Asuna's leaving, and why? Because I can't protect her? Or is it because I'm holding her back? Whatever it is, it still bites.

"Focus up everyone," Rain commands as we enter the eleventh. Since this staircase was off the main path, there was still fog here and far fewer adventurers. The reason for this is that a new monster spawns on the eleventh. One that had caused us many close scraps, the silverback.

Taking a couple deep breaths, I focus on what we're doing. Going into the dungeon distracted is inviting disaster. Drawing my sword, I leave my shield where it spends most of its time, on my back. It has incredible defensive properties, but I don't like the weight of it. It slows me down.

"Growg!"

"Kruu!"

Almost as soon as we enter, monsters beset us. An orc and two bad bats approaching.

Without talking we execute our strategy. Things may be rocky lately, but we've still spent so long in the dungeon together fighting that it's second nature.

Another thing we're losing.

Shaking off the sad thoughts, I stalk towards the orc. My status is a hell of a lot higher than when I first fought against one. More importantly though, I know its limits. Dashing in, I swing my sword to intercept its vertical attack. Not to block it, which is still far beyond my strength stat, but to deflect it. The minor collision still shocks my hand from the force of the interaction.

However, I've now gotten past all of the Orc's defenses, sword recovering well before the club, I leave a deep gash in the orcs side and back off.

Staggering towards me, the Orc continues to clumsily swing despite the waterfall of blood falling from it.

"Gru?" Letting out one last grunt the beast falls to the ground revealing Rain behind it, her twin swords dripping black blood.

"Kar?"

Glancing towards the rest of the fight, I just catch a well thrown knife piercing the second bats wing. Taking advantage of its injury, Asuna finishes it off with a lightning thrust.

Even now I still get shivers watching her unbelievable forward speed. If it's a skill, she hasn't said anything, but she's faster than me. The thought is unbelievable and slightly aggravating.

"Nice throw!" Rain congratulates Philia giving her a big high-five.

Smiling, I'm glad to see the skill starting to come along. A couple days ago Philia had simply shown up with throwing knives. The first day had been… pathetic. The second was better, but the knives rarely struck the spots they were supposed to. It's hard to judge if she's kept improving as the bad bat wings are large targets, but they're certainly effective.

Continuing on, we have the occasional scuffle with monsters. Despite them, we make quick progress towards the twelfth floor. In barely an hour and a half, we reach our destination. The main stairs to the twelfth. This would be our second time venturing down here.

Without discussing it, we unanimously move to the side of the passage to regroup. Even as we take a small break, the activity around the mouth of the entrance is constant with groups coming up and down. Really the twelfth floor isn't any harder than the eleventh, it's all the same monsters. The difference is the number and the size of the rooms. On the twelfth floor the rooms are large and it's easy to lose track of the walls and where you are. This makes it incredibly easy to get flanked as monsters spawn while you're distracted.

"We need to stay in vision of the wall," I needlessly tell everyone. Yesterday could have ended badly if that familia hadn't been walking past and dealt with some of the monsters.

Giving me steely nods, I finally feel that comradery we share return. The fights have helped galvanize us into a cohesive force. They all know that a lack of focus here would most likely be fatal.

"Ready?" Posing the question, their determined eyes tell me the answer. Giving them a smile, I lead us deeper.

The last of the upper floors.

I'm here to conquer you.

---

Asuna:

If I hadn't run out of them long ago, I'd be bawling like a babe right now. The month of being an adventurer and the close shaves with death have hardened me, changed me. Which is ironic really, since I first ventured into the dungeon to stay true to myself.

Looking at Kirito, I can't help but wonder if he feels the same way I do. Probably not. I want nothing more to run into his arms and have him hold me, protect me. But I can't. I have obligations to my familia. More than that though, my presence puts him at risk.

Hearing about my scuffle last week in the alley, my familia members told me the most likely assailants, Freya familia. Few others are bold enough to assault people in a city. Furthermore, there was no clear goal besides establishing dominance, or determining a measure of strength. Their conclusion was that Freya wanted to get rid of me to reduce the power of Loki's recruits.

For some reason, this conclusion didn't sit well with me. Having had the advantage of being there, I don't think they knew who I was. It was all about Kirito, but it still doesn't matter. If there's even a 5% chance that leaving will keep Kirito safer, then so be it. I owe it to him.

"That must have been painful." Murmuring the words, Argo had fallen back and was walking beside me. With over a ten-foot gap between us and the rest of the party, it's unlikely they can hear the whispered words.

Nodding, I don't trust my tongue to say anything.

"I don't know how I'll do mine," Argo continues, unconcerned with my lack of reply.

Giving her a quick glance, I raise my eyebrow as a questioning, why?

Slowly shaking her head, Argo doesn't give an immediate response. It's as if she's still in shock about why she was to leave.

"I have a duty to my familia." Is what Argo finally settles on. "I imagine it's the same for you?"

Not wanting to explain the deeper reasons, I nod. In addition to the incident, Loki has begun putting pressure on me. Mirel says that Loki's pruning me as a future leader. To that end I need to spend time among the familia, getting to know them, and more importantly, how to work with them. We have another raid planned for next week. Going along as a supporter, I was terrified to hear the destination, the twenty-seventh floor.

Since Freya familia hasn't made a coordinated move yet, our leaders made the decision to bring down the boss of that floor.

"Focus up. We got Silverbacks."

Kirito's tight voice brings an end to our conversation.

"Good chat," Argo grumbles.

As the girl runs off to her flank, I feel my cheeks heat slightly. I realized I hadn't actually said a single word. Merely nodding and giving her questioning looks.

"Asuna start."

Obeying Kirito's Command, I hold out my staff and begin my chant. The familiar words rise easily to my mouth. The motion has become standard for me. Using the staff as a conduit for my power, I become able to achieve the same effect but with less strain on my mind.

"Ready." Finishing the chant in just under forty seconds, I hold it until Kirito gives the command.

"Can you hold for a minute?" the boy asks, eyes focused in the distance. "We've got something else coming."

Nodding resolutely, I hope it isn't a lie. Not only would that be incredibly embarrassing, it would also be potentially fatal to ignite into flames when everyone expects my magic to mow down the enemies.

Doing their best to hold off the silverbacks and bang of imps, Kirito brings down one of the gorilla creatures before the sounds he heard arrive.

It's a group of orcs, all armed with nature weapons. Kirito had been right to hold my magic.

"Alright, Asuna go."

Giving the command, everyone backs up to either beside or behind me. Pointing my staff in the direction of the monsters, I invoke the spell, "Vannforlengelse."

Not forming my usual blades, I do balls. Relying on the force of the impact to do damage, it's something I've been practicing. The blunt impact is more damaging against armored creatures like Armoreds, and the Siverbacks thick fur. Furthermore, the larger projectiles should do better at hitting the nimble imps.

"Hah!" Letting out a noise between a yell and a grunt, I force the water forward. In the face of the barrage, the creatures' eyes widen in the face of inescapable death. As the screams fade, no movement is left. I did it. I wiped them all out. Any other day, I'd be bursting with pride, glad I can live up to my role as a mage.

"I'll miss that…" Kirito's voice is touched by a twinge of sadness. Enjoying his last few times viewing my magic. The thought is devastating.

"I mean uh, good job everyone! We worked together well!"

The save is sloppy, but no one calls Kirito out on it. I wanted to have a happy final day, but with how I told Kirito, there's little chance of that left.

Yet again, I find a rising urge to fall on the grass and cry, but I can't. I have a job to do, the tears will have to wait.

---

Restaurant in Orario:

"So, you've managed to get together enough resources to make a raid on the new world? Congratulations!"

The silver haired goddess' words are happy, said with a slight lilt of sincerity.

Opposite her, the Vermillion haired goddess merely snorts. Eyes narrowed to a slit never blinked or strayed from the silver-haired Goddess' face. Likewise, despite her happy smile, and calm face, her matching silver eyes focused intently on her companion.

Their sitting postures couldn't be more different. The silver haired goddess sat straight up; legs crossed like a proper lady. The Vermillion goddess leaned heavily on her elbow; legs splayed open uncaring.

"Bah, we both know that even now, that isn't exactly an achievement."

Tilting her head, the silver-haired goddess, brought a finger up to her cheek. "Oh, well I figured that was why you asked for a meeting."

Somehow further narrowing her eyes, the vermillion goddess almost snarled. "Don't bullshit me Freya, you know why I asked for a meeting. I don't know what bullshit your planning, but I'll tell you straight up. I'll protect my familia members with everything I have, so don't think hits in alleys are going to work."

"Pardon?" Blinking, Freya seemed genuinely confused. Focusing on Loki, comprehension suddenly dawned on her. "Oh."

"Yeah, oh." Loki growls. "Keep your mitts off her."

A lilting laugh emanates from Freya's throat, drawing the attention of every patron in the restaurant. The beautiful noise far superior to any sound the musicians being the patrons entertained could manage.

"I'm afraid there has been a misunderstanding," Freya tells Loki intently. The twin gazes locked on each other. "It's not your girl that interests me. And this time, I'll warn you. It's not wise to get between me and children I desire."

Loki seems taken aback by Freya's declaration. "If not Asuna then… Kirito?" Whispering the name of the boy that Loki had finally extracted from Asuna's reluctant lips.

"So, you know him," Freya murmured impressed. "I haven't decided whether or not to claim him, but if I do…"

Leaning back, a sad look entered Loki's eyes. She knew it would hurt Asuna, but… he wasn't worth going to war with Freya over.

"Just keep your dirty paws off my children," Loki growls.

"Well then," Freya declares while standing up. "I've had enough of being stared at." Without even a goodbye, the goddess leaves the restaurant to return to her abode at the top of the city.

The waiter arrived not even a minute later, eager to please with two dishes of food. Disappointed to see Freya gone, he sets the food and leaves.

Glancing at the unappetizing dish, Loki tsks. "She left me the bill again that vixen." Glaring at the now absent goddess, Loki felt sick to her stomach. Everyone called their familias equal. The two halves of Orario. And yet… Loki found herself helpless to help her children. Placing money on the table, Loki left the restaurant.

---

Kirito:

Sitting around eating lunch, conversation flowed for one of the first times today.

"I still can't believe that happened," Argo chuckled, unable to stop her giggles.

"It wasn't that funny," I insist. Eating bread, I kneel my head to hide my blush. The chuckles from the other girls disagree with my claim.

"Sure," Asuna snorts. As if a switch had been flipped, the old Asuna was back. Maybe she just didn't want to leave on a sour note.

"Ah, Nazha is going to get such a kick out this," Rain laughs lightly. "You screaming like a little girl as you hang upside down in a silverback's hand."

Blushing a dark red, I dispute her words. "I did not sound like a little girl."

My sulky words induce another fit of laughter through the group. Unseen, I show a small smile. If this is what it takes to bring them together, then a little humiliation is more than worth it.

"Seriously," Philia adds on, "I thought you were older than me. Then your voice cracks like that."

As the conversation continues, I merely nod and smile along. Even as I enjoy the moment, I can tell that its fleeting. In the words of the gods though, that's what makes them special.

"I think we should clear the twelfth today!"

"Huh?" Focusing back in on the conversation, I'm sure I misunderstood Asuna's words.

"Yes!" Philia agrees. "One final push!"

Eyes widening, my jaw drops as I survey them. Almost unanimously they agree. Only Argo seems to waver. A cold feeling in my stomach, I can't agree with this spur of the moment decision. I mean, sure, we've spent quite a while adjusting to this floor, and were doing quite well, but still. The farther we drifted from the stairs up, the farther we were from relative safety.

"I suppose it's not a problem," Argo agrees to my shock. "The floor is busy enough that we should be relatively safe regardless of where we are on it."

Swayed, by the girls' confidence, I nod my approval as we all stand up and stretch in preparation of further adventures. One push through the main route to the stairs that lead to the thirteenth, the middle floors. At least no one suggested going down there. Plus, I admit to myself, with a small smile, we've been getting better so fast, this floor should be a breeze for us.

The first few rooms are completely empty, the silhouettes of multiple parties fading into the mist at the edges on the central rooms. From them, the rest of the floor branches out. Here we're safe. Entering the second of the two central chambers, we've officially set a new record for depth travelled as a party.

Past the main chambers, the number of people drops instantly to zero. Everyone going lower is already there, and no one is returning this early in the day. The reason no one farms these connector rooms is the deep fog and low numbers of monsters. This makes the passage through ominous. Walking in silence, it was as if we'd all remembered at the same time this was unexplored territory for us.

"I don't remember it being this creepy."

Most of us, I clarify when I hear Asuna's words.

"I didn't think it would change so much…" Rain admits, voice trailing off in the thick mist.

"It will open up again," I assure them. "It's just temporary until we reach the last third of the floor."

I believe the words help steady them, regardless, no further conversation occurs in the passage. I almost manage to convince myself that it's because no one wants to bring monsters down upon us while our vision is drastically impaired.

Our journey passes without incident and before long the fog lightens as we reach the final rooms of the twelfth floor. The one we stand in now is the last of the largest caverns. Paths branch out in both directions leading to a variety of smaller rooms and even a pantry if you go deep enough. Down them you're sure to find many parties. These are the people on the cusp of level two, or the parties preparing for sorties into the middle floors but aren't quite ready.

Continuing through the room, we see some parties on the edges of the rooms, farming the monsters that spawn here. These parties will be us next week I conclude. The ones whom are strong enough to kill monsters with ease on this floor, yet don't want to risk the potentially large numbers of the outer passages.

Passing through the entranceway, it opens up into a series of smaller rooms, our final obstacle. Sensing the danger, everyone shifts their weapons and casts a wary look over the room. Focusing on my actions, I realized I'd done the same. Casting a wary eye over the seemingly still room, I try to control my nerves. For this series of chambers compose the 'final room' of not just the twelfth floor, but the entire upper floors. As such, it has an unprecedented capacity for monster spawns.

"Well, let's go." As one we step out onto the final challenge of the upper floors. The thought was both exhilarating and terrifying.

Adventurers shouldn't go on adventures.

Like a shade, I heard Eina's disembodied voice echoes through my head. Hesitating, I stop walking, inducing a series a confused grunts from my party members.

"Are you sure we should be doing this?" Voice wavering in the middle, no doubt I sound like the complete opposite of a leader right now.

Surprisingly, the girls hesitate. It's a different matter to say that you're going to do something and actually doing it.

"We can do this." This time it's Asuna confidently assertion.

Where it comes from, I don't know, but it's enough to galvanize us for one final push.

Almost as soon as we enter, the monsters appear. An Armored to the right, a gang to imps to the left. Straight ahead an Orc and a Silverback.

"How you want to hit this?" The usual confidence in Rain's voice is diminished. While still there it shakes slightly.

"I'll deal with the Armored," Asuna offers. It sounds more like a command.

"Argo, come with me."

"Aye aye, Kii-bou."

Splitting into three small groups, we handle the monsters separately. While perhaps not the ideal setup, it allows for us to keep better track of our opponents.

Unless more come.

I shake off the negative thoughts. There's no point dwelling on maybes. Especially when there's a very real opponent right in front of me.

"I'll flank."

Nodding in confirmation to Argo's words, I ready my shield in my left hand. Despite the creatures apparently having some sort of disagreement, both turn towards me with rage in their eyes. Roaring their deep-seated hate, they charge as one.

Eyes widening, only my experience keeps me alive. Rolling hard to the right, I escape under the Silverback's arm.

"Kraa!" Crying out in pain, I stare in confusion for a moment before I comprehend. The Silverback's faster swing had left its arm in the path of the Orc's club.

A fantastic strategy. If I'd planned it.

"Grug!" This time it's the Orc's turn to cry out as it crumples to its knees. Getting the back of its knees sliced will do that.

Wrongly blaming me for its injury, the Silverback howls and swings its arms. Stepping back outside of the frenzied blow, I use my sword to return a counterblow. Against the thick fur, It's little more than a scratch, but it's a start.

Continuing to be forced back, I sidestep the blows I can and deflect the blows I can't. Each fist arrives with the force of a sledgehammer, far more than my defense stat can handle. Nonetheless, each trade ends in my favour as cuts accumulate on the powerful monster. These things are the most powerful monster on this floor, so it only makes sense.

For some reason, my last thought sits wrong with me, but I don't have the time to figure out why.

Bringing both arms above its head, the Silverback prepares for a powerful slam. About to bring its arms down its eyes widen first in confusion, then pain. "Aroo!" Howling in agony, the creature falls flat on its face as a triumphant Argo appears behind it.

Barely glancing at it, I bury my sword in it to finish the kill while talking to Argo. "What took you so long?"

"Oh, you know," she shrugs nonchalantly in reply, "I just like watching you work."

Chuckling slightly, I turn in a big circle to observe how the other scuffles are going. Rain and Philia are just finishing up their last imp. Asuna meanwhile, is already extracting the Armored's stone and is returning.

As she comes over, a contemplative look is in her eyes as she mumbles to herself.

"You okay?" I ask questioningly, leaving the collection of our magic stones to Argo.

"Huh?" Surprised by the question, Asuna shakes herself back to reality. "Oh yeah, it didn't come close to hitting me."

Nodding, I try to hide how impressed I am. I've been trying to keep the Armoreds to myself due to how hard they are to actually kill.

"I didn't get to see the fight, how'd you kill it?"

Blushing, Asuna averts her eyes.

Confusion rising, I simply stare at her and wait for her answer. "My familia suggested it."

"Oh…"

"Using my speed, I can reach them before they roll up… And they're eyes aren't armoured."

Blinking at her, it takes awhile for me to fully process her statement. "B-but… If you miss…"

Tilting her head, Asuna seems to ponder my statement before frowning. "Why would I miss?"

Once again, I've been left speechless. Did she hear herself? I feel like I've entered a different universe. But no… Asuna's been developing, and I've missed it.

Simply standing there we stare into each other's eyes. It's so strange. I'd initially put all of my faith into her. I don't know what to think anymore. I know she'll be powerful. But all I care about now is that she's leaving. Going somewhere I can't follow.

Introducing herself with a cough, Philia gently breaks into our staring contest.

"Good job everyone." Speaking the words, I rip my eyes off Asuna and lead us deeper through the floor, emotions mixed. Part of me wants the floor to never end, while my practical side wishes we were there already.

Entering the next chamber, we're greeted by a familiar sight, monsters. These paths which haven't been travelled in a while have been populated again. It will be a hard slog to get through them. Quickly counting the visible occupants and estimating the ones I can hear, I give a controversial order, "Asuna, begin casting."

Rightly so, the girl frowns. "Are you sure? I'm not great at spreading the missiles out."

"They'll congregate while you're chanting," I explain. "We will use the time to hold them off and give you as many targets as possible.

Accepting my orders, she nods. "Well, here we go. Rise and flow, I am the Master of Water…"

The magic energy and captivating chant draw the heads of the monsters. Once again, I ready my shield and go to greet them. In particular the Armoreds. My bane. The blasted creatures have the ability to roll straight through me and into Asuna, stopping her cast.

"Philia! The Bats!" Giving my orders, I ignore the flying silhouettes. It would be our newest ranged member's responsibility to deal with them.

"Gragh!" Beginning to charge, a clubless Orc lifts its meaty hand in preparation of killing me.

Easily dodging the sole monster's attack, I down it with one swift swing across the back of its knee. Leaving the prone creature, Asuna's magic will finish it.

Next, a gang of imps approach, placing themselves between the Armored and me. Sniffing, the armadillo creature keeps pacing.

Taking my eyes off it, I have to focus on the creatures in front of me. Their teamwork is frightening to face by myself. It's a good thing I'm not.

Rain's quick slash from the fog gives me all the opening I need to begin tearing into the strange dog-eared creatures.

"Ready." Before I know it, Asuna's chant is done.

"Fall back." Even before my order, the girls are retreating Smiling, I can't help but enjoy how well we work together now.

"Vannforlengelse!"

Releasing her Nordic spell, the water congeals and disperses faster than if it was fired from a cannon. I hope I never have to stand on the other side of that magic.

In the aftermath, pained screams continue. It's just as Asuna said, I realize with a sigh. The monsters far away took only mild damage from the spell. We'd have to go put them out of their misery before the screams drew more.

"Let's go." Leading them out into the mists, I aim for the source of the first cry, a silverback with a shattered leg. Dragging itself along with its arms, it truly is a pitiful sight. It doesn't even see me before my sword ends its life.

"What an unpleasant task," Argo scowls.

"Sorry," Asuna bites back. "I did my best to cover the room.

"It's not your fault," I sigh, "I should have done more to collect them."

Crack!

As one we all freeze. We're almost in the very middle of the room. Again and again the ominous sound rings out.

"Monster party…"

"Run!" Instantly making the decision, I position myself at the front of our fleeing troupe. Not so I escape first, but to clear the path. Well, mostly.

"I hate this stupid place!" Argo's complaints sum up all of our feelings. No matter how comfortable one is on a floor, the dungeon always has another trick up its sleeve.

"Are we turning?" Asuna's question is a valid one. The passage between caverns does narrow a lot. It may be possible to funnel them into the chokepoint and blow them away with magic.

"Too risky," I decide. "Keep running."

They're words no adventurer wants to hear, but they're essential. No one can survive fighting every battle.

Running almost full speed, I hold up a little as too not lose the others. Even still, we're going fast. My visibility time isn't even two seconds.

"Almost there…"

Philia's words send a shiver down my back. For life, and especially the dungeon, is full of cruel irony. Giving someone hope just to crush it a moment later.

The sound of crunching grass was the all the warning we had.

"Look out!" My frantic scream did little to help as a pair of Armoreds roll at us from the right.

"Wah!" The closest to their assault, Argo has no time to react. Trying to roll out of their way, one of Argo's legs is too slow.

With a despairing crunch, a sound emits from Argo's ankle that should never be made.

"No!" Crying out in rage, Asuna lunges forward with her lightning speed. Rapier flashing it lands right in the center of the spiral. The inch of flesh unprotected by scales.

The momentum of the Armored drags Asuna forward, almost yanking her Rapier out of her hand. However, she accomplished the goal. The roll was stopped as the Armored slowly bleeds to death on the grass floor.

"Are you…" I stop the question. Argo's gone past pain into shock. Her eyes are glazed and her ankle twists at a ninety-degree angle.

"Let's go!" Fighting my rising panic, I scoop up Argo's body and continue to run towards the exit.

"We have to turn!" Asuna insists.

Giving her piercing eyes, a quick glance, I waver. Completely encumbered by Argo's body, I'm relying on my party to protect me. More importantly, I can't run at full speed with Argo's body in my arms. Her armoured form weighs far more than I thought it would.

"Okay." Putting my life into the hands of Asuna's magic, the passage comes into view. Right in front of our entrance stands a Silverback. The overgrown gorilla seems to smile at us as we get closer.

"I got this," Winking at me as she goes past, Rain draws her dual blades and slides in low against the large class monster.

Heart in my throat, I can do no more than watch as she attempts to singlehandedly remove the obstacle between us and relative safety.

"Hiyah!" Yelling, Rain pivots like a top, her long red hair swirling behind her and covering the Silverback's fist. Despite the close encounter, Rain escapes unharmed and chains it into twin strikes. One sword leaves a long gash along its cheek while the other splits its side.

"Garoo!" Crying int pain, the silverback rotates faster than something of that size should be able to and begins to rain blows down upon the slim girl.

Dancing her way out of danger, Rain somehow ends up behind the creature. Gathering her strength, Rain forces her right blade into the core of the creature. Striking its stone, the Silverback begins to dissolve into ash right as we reach it.

Nodding appreciatively at her, we blow past her into the cavern. Roughly lowering Argo to the ground, I turn back to entrance. "Form up around me. Let none pass."

Without needing a command, Asuna begins chanting as the shadows thicken and solidify into figures of monsters. Every single variety one can expect to find on the twelfth floor is here.

"Oh shit, oh shit, oh shit!" Philia's mumbled expletives display exactly how on edge the girl is.

She's not the only one. My own breaths are coming hard and fast, and not solely from exertion. Even after all of my scraps with death, my body is reacting poorly. I can't seem to focus on the important things. My eyes constantly zoom in and magnify unimportant things. Like how majestic Rain looks as she stands prepared to face the creatures.

What gives her the ability to do that?

In the face of death, how can she remain calm?

Turning to me, Rain blinks in surprise. Blushing belatedly, I realize I'd said the words aloud.

"It's because I have you here to protect me," Rain smiles. "Why would I be afraid?"

Turning back towards the monsters, I swallow one final time. At least my presence is helping one person.

Thirty seconds.

Let's do this.

Slash, block, parry, dodge.

The motions blend together into obscurity. Every aspect fades away as two goals consume my mind. First, stop the monsters from advancing. Second, try to stay alive while accomplishing that.

Seeing an imp jump at an exposed Philia, I jab with my shield to deflect the creature. In the same breath, a besieged Rain is forced to the ground under the force of an Orc's club. Jabbing quickly with my sword, I lightly impale its side and pull back. There's no more I can manage.

"Grawoh!" Forcing aside the imps that are currently attacking me a Silverback forces its way through. The large creature doesn't hesitate before sending its ham-sized fist at my head. Ducking the blow, I send my blade in an uppercut creating a superficial wound.

Stumbling back a step, the monster roars at me.

The sound of flapping wings draws my vision as the Bad Bats decide it's their turn to join the party. Our only saving grace is the low roof prevents them from simply soaring past us to Asuna.

"Gruu!"

Face blanching my eyes lower to deal with the more important threat. The Silverback has given up on finesse and is relying on brute strength. Correctly getting the measure of the situation, the dim creature has determined that I'm completely unable to dodge.

"Uh oh." Planting my sword straight ahead, I bring up my shield my match it. Gritting my teeth, I know I can't take this impact standing still. Half a second before impact I force myself forwards.

"Kirito?"

"Kirito!"

Finally realizing my predicament, Rain and Philia are helpless to do anything as I crash with the creature.

Gasping, I lose sensation as I find myself weightless. Soaring through the air, a strange numb feeling has consumed my right hand. Due to my sword getting ripped out of it, I decide belatedly. Looking up, Asuna stands directly above me, staff held in front of her as her magic circle swirls around us.

Likewise forced back, Rain and Philia arrive a second before the monsters.

We failed.

The thought is sobering as I lay on my aching back feeling the injuries of the fight.

With one word though, Asuna turns it all around. I get a view I never wanted as the water congeals barely a couple inches above me. Trying to sink further into the ground, I completely forget about the monsters as the water shoots out.

Exhaling heavily, I peel myself off the ground. I'm barely up before I'm knocked back down again. All three girls grabbing different parts of me, I struggle to breath through their combined choking. "A-Argo."

With that one word, the embarrassed girls get off.

"Thanks Kirito." Mumbling the words to me, Asuna is the first to leave to check on out stunned friend.

"Should we set it?" Rain asks blearily, giving Argo's broken foot a disgusted look.

"Yes," Asuna tells us with pursed lips. "Argo's an adventurer, she heals fast. She's not going to thank us for saving her if they have to rebreak it on the surface."

Rebreak.

The words send a shudder down my spine. I'd heard of the process before, but having it become a reality was humbling.

"Do…"

Crack!

Not waiting for my approval, Asuna goes ahead and straightens Argo's foot. The glazed girl's body jumps, but no scream rings out. Holding back my bile, I realize Asuna was right, it was better to do it now.

Continuing to move as if on autopilot, Asuna pulls out a hi-potion and carefully rubs it into the wounded foot. Taking the rest, she drains it into Argo's throat. Almost instantly, some life returns to Argo's complexion.

Coughing, Argo opens her eyes. Staring into the brown orbs, I'm surprised by how lucid they are. But then again, I remedy, she is an adventurer. Plus, the power of a hi-potion isn't to be underestimated.

"Sorry," Argo apologizes, wincing slightly. "Put you in a bind."

"It's alr…"

Getting cut off once again, a scream splits the air from the chamber.

Nervously, we turn as one to greet the shadowed forms running towards us.

As the adventurers emerge, they're people I've never seen before. The leader sees us, then his eyes find their way unto the injured Argo. Mouth splitting into a grin, hope begins to replace the fear in his eyes.

"We'll leave the spoils to you then, yes?"

With just that sentence, he leads his party past us and closer to the surface.

"No! Don't leave me… Ahh!"

Statement getting cut off, the person's words turn into a scream of death.

Quickly following is an ominous roar. A noise that brings back repressed memories.

"It can't be…"

Slowly its copper form enters vision. Standing on four powerful legs, fresh blood drips from its teeth.

"It is…"

"An infant dragon." Argo finishes for me. Despair in her voice.

---

Jyaga Mara Kun North Stand:

"L-Loki?"

Disbelief thick in Hestia's voice, she couldn't imagine how unlucky she must be. Her rival since Tenkai had arrived at her food kiosk while she was working. No doubt here to laugh at me from her position at the top! Hestia decides with a scowl.

Loki matches her scowl perfectly.

"Well, are you going to order?" Hestia asks grumpily, wanting nothing more than to get Loki out of here.

Grimacing, Loki gives Hestia a disbelieving look. "Like I'd ever eat food you prepare. I'm here to talk."

Grinding her teeth, Hestia holds back a snark reply. "Fine, make it quick."

Glancing behind her, Loki found a line of disgruntled customers wondering what was taking so long.

"You better be ready shorty." Loki growls quietly so that only Hestia can hear. "Freya's after your boy."

Leaving it at that, the vermilion-haired goddess stalks away. Before she knew what was happening her feet had guided her here, two hates warring within her. Loki despised Hestia for those large lumps of fat on her chest that gave the childlike goddess a woman's figure. However, she hated Freya's ability to take any child she wants even more. Those damn cheater eyes and charm made an unbeatable combo.

Left behind at the stall, Hestia couldn't hear the words of the next customer who came to order. Instantly, Loki had turned Hestia's world upside down. The news had shocked her more than a bucket of cold water. How was she supposed to compete with the goddess of beauty? Kirito would be a morning snack for Freya.

Kirito had quickly become Hestia's entire world here in the children's world. She wanted nothing more than to stay here and watch as he continued to grow and write his own adventure. Now Freya threatened to take him away and use him as a plaything for a couple days.

The worst part was, Hestia realized as she mechanically began working again, her movements far crisper than when she focused on what she was doing, is that there was absolutely nothing she could do about it.

---

Kirito:

"What is that?" The copper form had risen from the rubble of the wall on the twelfth floor. I'd never seen it before. Unfortunately, I had a rematch with a creature far stronger than it.

Extracting itself easily, it picked up my scent and turned its head towards me. "A dragon? Oh, an infant dragon." I'd heard the name before on forums, never encountered one though. Shrugging, I approach the creature. May as well kill it since I'm here. Rare creatures often drop better loot.

Using my level two ability I dodge its first attack with ease. "Ha, take this!" Planting my right foot, I swing a death blow unto its neck.

"Huh?" Muttering in confusion, I barely manage to hold unto my sword as it's repelled by the thing's hard scales.

Focusing completely on its head, I don't notice the tail until it's too late. "Fwah!" Letting out a pathetic cry, I find myself on the ground, a strange numb sensation coming from my leg. Lifting my leg, I rectify that, where my leg used to be.

Blearily lifting my head, its fangs are the last thing I see before awakening in Ikelos' hearth.

---

The memories flash through me accompanied with terror. I fully appreciate now how bad I'd been in the beta, but still. I was level two last time I fought an infant dragon and it ended in disaster.

"Everyone run." I keep my words soft. No doubt it's already sensed us, but the copper beast is still distracted with its last meal. A sacrifice from the party that ran past no doubt.

"You go too Kii-bou." Argo matches my tone, her words holding a hint of resignation in them. Putting her arms under herself, Argo manages to slowly rise. Wincing from the movement on her still tender foot, she stands on one leg.

"Argo?" Asuna's voice is filled with confusion and fear.

Shaking her head at Asuna, Argo doesn't verbally answer her. "That thing is categorized as level two. Run away and let it hunt me. With my magic, I may be able to escape."

"Magic?"

Ignoring the other girls' cries of disbelief, Argo focuses on me. On the surface, her words make sense. It's a logical plan. I want to accept it. To run away from this impossibly strong creature that I'd all but forgotten about.

But I can't. Already Argo is beginning to sway, unable to stay upright. In her state can she even cast her magic? Will that thing really not be able to catch her?

"I recommend leaving as Argo suggested," Drawing my weapons I turn towards to dragon. "However, I have a monster to kill first."

Walking towards the creature, it finishes its meal and turns its deep orange eyes on me. Glaring the reptilian orbs are a horrifying image. Forcing down my fear I convince myself that this time will go better. My status may be lower than in the beta, but with my skill and improved skills… I'll still lose.

Freezing in front of it, my past failures rush to mind. My lose against the catman. My defeat at the hands of Garim. My repeated loses to Suguha. In a life full of failure, can I really expect to win?

"We're helping."

Glancing at my sides, Rain and Asuna have stepped up, weapons drawn. Behind me, I hear Philia preparing her throwing knifes.

"The things scales are nearly invulnerable," Argo coaches from the back. "Your best bet is to make it realize you aren't worth it's time."

"Does it breathe fire?" Rain asks, a touch of nerves in her voice.

"No," I answer for her. My mouth working again. "Watch the tail. It can use it independently of its mouth."

As if my words had been some sort of signal, both the dragon and I begin moving. Unlike normal monsters that simply charge whatever is closest to it, the dragon stares down at me with a cunning in its eyes. Keeping its head fully raised, the beast must be at least four metres tall.

Deciding it's done evaluating, its head snaps down in one swift motion. Prepared for the movement, I sidestep and bring my sword down on its neck. With a serious case of Déjà vu, I watch as my sword bounces off the scales. Rather than a numb sensation, I get shooting pain from the impact. Gritting my teeth, I back off clenching my sword to my body.

"Hah!" Letting out twin impassioned roars, the girls dart in weapons flying on the dragon;s exposed flanks. Against almost any other monster, their attacks would have shish-kebabbed it. However, with twin clangs, their blades were repelled in a similar fashion to mine.

Backing up a step, the infant dragon swung its head back and forth to find where the pesky attacks are coming from.

"Grarg!" Whether it had decided that Asuna and Rain weren't worth its time, or maybe I just looked the tastiest, it tried to eat me again.

Too focused on the girls, I don't have time to dodge. Raising my shield, the teeth come down solidly on the edge of the rim. Creaking ominously, the shield withstands the dragon's bite. Hope rising infinitesimally, I shove it upwards.

Reeling back in pain, the dragon howls at me. Despite the fierce display of talent, a thought comes to me, I injured it! Its scales may be invincible, but the inside of its mouth is still vulnerable.

"Ready for round two?" I mock it.

Taking offense to my words, the dragon charges. Tsking, I can't take advantage of that move. Rolling to the side, I watch the incredible bulk of the creature barrel past with a gust of hot wind not even a foot away. Why was it so hot though?

Tabling the thought, I rise and prepare for another encounter. I need to get its mouth open enough to get my sword inside. Or…

"Philia!" As I yell my order to the girl, I finally feel like we have an actual chance of killing this thing. "When it roars, throw a knife into its mouth."

"I-I'll do my best…" Her words have no confidence in them. It shouldn't matter though. As long as we stay alive, she has a long time to hit one throw.

Engaging it first this time, I send conservative thrusts towards its chest. The stabs are weak and have no chance of dealing damage. They do what I need them to do though, they annoy it.

"Oh shit!" Barely noticing in time, the threat came not from its mouth, but its front claws. Lifting its right foreleg, the slash came far swifter than I thought it would. Producing an earpiercing screech, the light touch was enough to cause serious damage to my metal chest protector.

Following it up with a bite, I was helpless before the onslaught.

"Graoh!" Reeling back, the knife colliding with its face dissuaded the dragon from its attack.

"Thank you…"

"Sorry!" My weak words were evidently not audible as Philia squeaked in apology for missing its mouth.

As the long minutes ticked by, Philia's knives were only getting farther from their target. It was with growing horror that I finally realized; the dragon was learning. It had figured out Philia's target and now regarded her as the primary threat and went all out to dodge her knives.

Biting my lip, I didn't know what to do. Every option, every path open to us led to the same inevitable fate. After all, how do you kill an enemy with only one weakness that knows how to protect it?

Standing on it's back two legs, the infant dragon craned its head to the ceiling and roared. Turning its eyes down upon us, I understood the annoyance in its gaze. It was done playing around with us.

"Watch out!" Prepping my shield, I waited for whatever new trick the dragon had for us. Falling heavily back upon all fours it charged. Coming at me once again, I looked on in confusion. It had done this multiple times. What was different now?

Comprehending, cold fear froze my sweat to me. It wasn't aiming at me, it was aiming past me.

"Philia!"

Crying out in terror, I rolled out of the way, then ran back towards it. Knowing the gesture was futile, I locked both hands on its tail, hoping to slow its progress.

Hot wind.

I hadn't understood the meaning of it before. The dragon was boiling. Crying out in pain, I could feel the instant burns through my gloves.

"Kirito!"

Getting distracted by my folly, they underestimated the dragon.

"Here!" Rushing over, Asuna instantly poured a hi-potion on my scalding hands as Philia cried out in terror and pain. There was nothing I could do but watch as her body soared through the air in a low arc.

Ignoring the injuries, I curl my hands around my abandoned weapons and rise. My mind is strangely empty. The usual thoughts and plots have abandoned me and all that remains is a hollow emptiness as I approach the dragon.

It ignores me though as it focuses on Philia's groaning form. She's alive! Penetrating me like a missile, that one piece of knowledge brings an unprecedented level of joy.

Eyes widening, I curse my delay. Sprinting towards Philia, I only hope I beat the dragon there that is currently licking its chops.

"You wish."

Head whipping to the side, I focus on the source of the words, Argo.

Readying her extracting knife, Argo puts one hand on the wall to steady herself and releases the blade in one clean motion. Completely focused on the prone girl, the dragon doesn't look up until it's too late.

"Grawg!" Stumbling to the side, the dragon howls in pain, Philia forgotten. With a thrill, I find the knife. Its hilt is protruding from where its right eye is supposed to be. Smiling viciously, I feel a vindictive pleasure watching the mighty creature stagger around in pain.

"That's… all I got Kii-bou…" Apparently using the last of her energy, Argo collapses to the ground having done far more than any of us despite her injury.

Hands burning with a righteous agony, the mere act of holding my gear is a test of will. Pushing through it though, I can't afford any more slip ups against a foe of this caliber.

Finally steadying itself, the dragon turns back towards us, anger burning in its last remaining eye. The knowledge that separated it from the other monsters was gone. In its place was the maniac rage of its brethren.

"Rain, heal Philia." Shouting more needless orders, I step between the bleeding girl and the panicked red-haired one that was already on her way to do just that.

"I'll cover you."

Rushing past me with that line, Asuna takes up a flanking position. Giving her one nervous glance is all I can spare before the dragon is on me. Claws, into a bite, into another claw swipe. Each attack is closer than last. On its next bite I'm forced to shove my shield into its mouth again. Caught there in an equilibrium, I need my second hand to make it a fair battle.

On the side I can hear Asuna's rapier make multiple impacts against its scales. Impressed by her relentless tenacity, the feedback pain must be unbearable.

"Kruu!" Suddenly crying out, the dragon abandons its contest and swings its head to Asuna.

"Asuna!" With my vision no longer blocked I see what has distracted the dragon. Asuna managed to sneak her weapon into a miniscule gap and the rapier hangs out of its side with only a couple inches of the tip inside.

Turning her head at my yell, Asuna stares at the approaching head.

"No!" But my shout is too late. She made the same mistake I did. The attack doesn't come from the head, but the tail that's just as deadly.

It collides solidly with her middle, sending her rolling across the ground.

"No…" Repeating my weak word, I struggle to fight off the encroaching helplessness. First Philia and now Asuna.

Tilting its head back, the dragon roars triumphantly. A wicked grin spreading its mouth, the giant creature focuses its attention on me as its last remaining combatant.

---

Asuna:

Coughing deeply, large amounts of blood come out of my mouth. Laying on the ground, I can barely process what's happening. I appear to be in excruciating pain, yet I can't really feel it.

I'm going into shock.

The simple explanation brings giggles to my mouth.

For some reason the laughter clears my mind and brings what I'm staring at sideways into focus. Kirito, alone. Against the monster.

Here I am, helpless to aid him.

But wait…

Grabbing at my staff, I try to bring it out in front of me. The effort is too much as I gasp in pain. The waves that the shock had been repressing.

Giving up on the staff, I extend my right hand and begin doing what I should have done from the start, I begin chanting.

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

Coughing through the words, the taste of blood mixes with spit as it flies from my mouth. The amount of magic energy I have to feed the spell is insignificant compared to the amount I'd used just minutes before against the monster party. That success feels like a lifetime ago.

"Rise and obey. Destroy those who obstruct."

Every line brings the pain into sharper clarity. I think I underestimated how bad my injury is.

"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."

It doesn't matter though. I'm not going to lay around and do nothing while Kirito struggles against this terrifying creature. Even if… I wince as another wave threatens to break the cast. Even if this kills me, if it saves Kirito, then I'll do it.

"Wash away the rabble and purify the streets.

Put out the fires and drown the nonbelievers"

NO. I won't die. This is simply another step. One more push forward to reach his side. To catch up, to surpass him.

"Blessed of the Undine.

My name is Necksa!"

I can be the hero too. I can reach him!

Vannforlengelse!"

It's the weakest spell I've casted in weeks. No staff and no energy left me with limited options. But I don't need to wipe out an entire party. Only one creature. For one creature, I need only one spear. Reach… Please.

Forcing the last of my mind into the singular spear of water before darkness consumes my mind and I see no more.

---

Kirito:

Beaten back repeatedly by the dragon, It is only pure instinct that's kept me alive so far. No thoughts come to mind, no plans.

"Vannforlengelse!"

"Huh?" Reacting to Asuna's spell's name, my body leaps backwards on its own. Looking over at her, my jaw drops. I was so out of it I missed her casting her spell.

Forming into one great javelin, it hurls itself at the infant dragon. Watching breathlessly, it impacts dead center in the dragon's chest.

"Groah!" Getting hurled back by the force, the dragon falls on its back and does one complete roll before coming to a halt.

Rising on uneasy legs, it's still alive. Heart dropping, it only looks upset, but uninjured. No…

At the sight of impact, a single scale breaks and crumbles to the ground. Underneath it, a patch of exposed pink skin. She's done it, I realize. Asuna's given me a chance.

"Kruu, kruu!"

With that one noise, hope fades yet again as a pack of imps hop into view.

"I'll deal with them." Running back out from carrying Asuna's body away, Rain stands beside me. "Just promise me you'll slay the dragon."

"I promise." Giving Rain one sharp nod, I dash towards my injured opponent.

Let me save them!

Pleading with my back, time slows as my skill activates. Sword primed for the hole Asuna created, I don't give the dragon time to react as my blade pushed for its one weakness. The chink in its armour.

It hits.

With wide eyes I watch as my sword sinks into the flesh inch by inch.

Snap!

The dragon moved. The torsional force snapped my sword like a twig. Left with the mostly complete blade, the tip remains impaled in the dragon's flesh. My overworked sword finally reached its limit.

Roaring its disagreement, its claws flash down on me.

Trying to raise my shield, I take the impact straight on and my arm buckles underneath it. Even in my skill, I don't have the strength to repel the claws that hit straight on.

Arm send flying backwards, the shield, while still whole is sent flying from hand. A sharp cracking sound informs me of what the shooting pain had already conveyed. My arm is broken.

Backpedalling, I keep the dragon in front of me. It doesn't matter though. I have no shield and my sword is broken.

I've failed again.

I never should have assembled a party. They're dead because of me.

Are you really going to let it end like this?

Suddenly I can hear a voice in my mind. It holds an indescribable beauty. I have no doubt that the owner of such a voice must be exquisite.

Oh well. I had hoped you'd impress me.

That disappointment is the final straw. I promised Rain I'd kill this thing and I will. I refuse to lie on the ground and cry.

Never again!

Burnt hand tightening around my sword, the pain fades away, as my eyes focus in on one thing. The tip of my sword left behind in the dragon. I need to perfectly align my blade with the tip and shove it deep enough to pierce the magic stone.

Nothing else will do.

Even as I formulate the strategy, I realize how impossible it sounds. That doesn't matter though. It simply has to be done.

Staring into the lone beady eye of the dragon, I charge. Keeping its head low, that's an obstacle I need to bypass.

Preparing to lunge, it coils its neck like a snake. As I reach it, it strikes even faster than one. I'm ready for it.

Fangs aimed for my head, I move in the last direction it expects, forwards. Putting on a burst of my true speed, I surpass its expectations. Snapping too late, I'm already past it.

Sword moving forward, it's the moment of truth. The final act. If I miss, I die.

Replicating my first strike perfectly, my sword lines up with tip.

Replicating it's motion, the dragon moves sideways.

Not again!

Putting the energy into my hand, I force it into an unnatural motion. To move sideways while stuck in a forward thrust.

Sparks bursting as the two metal pieces meet, the tip and the blade screech, and then align. The two halves fitting back together perfectly, the blade slides forward effortlessly.

One foot, then a second, a giant crack announces my victory.

Arm relaxing, I'm close enough to the copper scales to feel the incredible heat the creature gives off.

Raising its head to the ceiling, the dragon tries to roar one last time but no sound is emitted. Only ash as its tall form begins to crumble.

"I did it…" Collapsing to the ground, I leave my broken sword in the dissolving dragon. As my skill fades, so does my energy.

"Good job, Kirito…" Walking over to me, Rain supports herself on one of her swords. The imps did a number on her. Fighting their packs solo is a very challenging proposition.

"Good job," I congratulate her back, smiling weakly. Even though we won, I won, the feeling is bittersweet. Because as howls ring out through the floor, I realize something. We aren't getting out of here alive.

The encroaching monsters are going to tear our beleaguered party to shreds.

"Come on," Rain smiles, offering me a hand. "Let's go down with a fight."

Returning it weakly, I use her aid to stand up. Left arm swinging uselessly at my side, I have no fighting ability left to me.

Turning towards the howls, they suddenly change into screams of pain. "Huh?"

Staring disbelievingly, the fog swirls to admit people from it.

Mouth dropping, I still don't understand. "We're… saved?"

Not just adventurers, I recognize them, or some of them. They're the people from Nazha's shop. Takemikazuchi familia.

"What happened here…" the long-haired girl's voice is filled with awe as she observes the aftermath of our struggle.

"Haha!" Laughing at the words I fall back down. Allowing the stress to flow out of me, I pass out.

---

Hermes' familia home:

"So you've decided then?" Hermes' asks with a conflicted voice.

"Oh, don't bother trying to hide your glee," Argo bites back in her sulky voice. "I'm ready to begin my job in the familia."

"That's good to hear," Hermes answers with a smile. "So, what changed your mind?"

Tsking, Argo doesn't answer immediately. "His strength."

"What was that?"

"He doesn't need me," Argo elaborated. "He rose up and defeated a creature he had no right beating. Therefore, I feel far more comfortable leaving."

"And yet you'd rather stay," Hermes confirms. His emotions kept hidden behind his perpetual smile.

"Yes… Yes, I think I would…" Argo answers in a small voice.

"Your job isn't fulltime you know," Hermes replies gently, offering a branch to the drowning girl.

Shaking her head, Argo denies the offer. "I like to dive in fulltime on things. Besides showing up irregularly will just mess up party chemistry. Now, what's my first assignment."

Staring into the Renart's resolute eyes, a true smile touched his lips. This is the potential he'd seen in the girl. Abilities he hadn't seen since the captain he'd lost a year ago.

---

Hestia familia home:

"Congratulations Kirito, you've hit level two."

His goddess' words confirm his expectations. Hard eyes staring straight ahead, Kirito's drive was not diminished by this accomplishment, but incensed. Further his mind roars at him. He has too keep pushing. Gathering more strength in order to protect everyone.

He may have won, but he didn't save everyone. Takemikazuchi familia did that. That was the next step. Eyes set firmly on the future; Kirito ascended to the next level. A fresh sheet on which to write the next part of his story.

---

Post Note:

Well, hopefully that wasn't so bad.

He finally hit level two! Isn't that exciting?

Anyway, we get a fun interlude next week before things pick back up again in chapter 11.

If you want to think about this story in terms of arcs, this is definitely the end of the first one.

Also, if you're upset about the party breaking up... I don't know what to tell you other then to take another look at the world of Danmachi. Especially volume 6.

Later,

-asdf