May 16th

SAO/ALO Survivor School ~ Nishitokyo, Tokyo:

Kazuto and Alex made their way towards the school's garden. They finished one of their classes and it is now lunchtime. Kazuto smiled glowingly when he saw his wife, Asuna sitting with Suguha.

Both of them are chatting with each other about the courses they're in.

"Anyway, it's hard to believe what we have missed while in SAO." Asuna explained. She went on the world events during the years between 2022 and 2024. That included the Second Korean War.

"Yeah, between SAO and the war," Suguha said, "it was some depressing times for us. We did our best to keep our spirits up, to keep us from being dragged down."

"And that was how you ventured into gaming," Asuna asked with a smile.

Suguha nodded happily.

"You know," Asuna giggled, "you and I were both considered the least likely to be gaming girls."

Suguha blushed from Asuna's statement. "A-And our beloveds are gaming guys." She stammered.

"That they are!" Asuna concurred. She then looked around and saw her husband and his friend approaching. "Speaking of..." She waved towards both boys. Kazuto walked over faster with Alex behind him. Asuna and Suguha stood up and hugged their respected beloveds.

"Asuna..." Kazuto cooed. "You being a good woman?"

"I sure am, dear." Asuna giggled.

"Suguha..." Alex nuzzled into her neck cutely.

"Hey," Suguha squeaked happily.

"I can see someone's happy." Alex teased.

"I am as ever," Suguha cheered.

"Did I tell you that uniform fits you well?" Alex laughed.

Suguha's cheeks flushed red. "You have."

All four of them were wearing the dark blue uniforms of the school, which proved to be rather form fitting.

After they broke the embrace, they all sat down on the bench together.

"So you married birds brought lunch like you promised?" Alex asked.

"We sure did." Asuna smiled as she produced a large picnic basket she kept at her side.

"And Asuna helped me make this appetizer," Kazuto produced something from his bag, "sushi anybody?"

"Yum!" Suguha licked her lips with delight.

"You started cooking?" Alex was amused with his friend.

"Um, not yet." Kazuto answered sheepishly. "The best I can manage are putting together cold foods."

"Kazuto's still hopeless with the stove," Asuna giggled.

"Most boys are, even after getting married," Suguha teased.

"I guess I should look into cooking." Alex chuckled.

"You'd better not poison someone," Suguha then teased her boyfriend.

Alex stammered. "I would never."

Suguha then giggled before playfully poked his nose.

Asuna then revealed some small sandwiches. "Here you all go."

"Thanks, dear." Kazuto kissed Asuna's cheek.

Alex and Sugu also expressed their thanks. Suguha then looked at her sandwich, and noticed that it was smaller. "It's a little smaller."

"Oh, well, you see, the gym teachers yesterday did tell those of us packing lunches to not pack too much for today," Asuna explained.

"Oh?" Kazuto raised an eyebrow. "And I'm guessing that we'll be put to the test during gym today."

"But they've already been working many of the SAO survivors back in shape," Suguha wondered.

Alex shrugged, "who knows..." He then glanced towards the fence that surrounded the school perimeter. He happened to see a joint military police patrol of USAF and JSDF that were strolling with their rifles and walking their guard dogs. It was a reminder that this was no ordinary school; it was a staffed military base for the survivors of both SAO and ALO under threat from Hydra for various reasons.

"At least we're under protection." He added.

"What?" Suguha was surprised by Alex's off-topic muttering.

"I hope they don't have some military regime waiting for us," Kazuto joked, "I think many students just might faint."

"Kazuto." Asuna shook her head.

"What, just joking," Kazuto chuckled, "but then again, the Self Defense Forces and the American Air Force are here."

"And don't forget that Anderson Tech has supplied the school with state-of-the-art technology." Alex smiled, he showed the tablet that every student has acquired, it even had the Anderson Tech logo stamped on the back of the tablet. "I don't know if this curriculum can even function without this."

"It's hard to believe." Kazuto admired the tablet in his hands. "This has more functionality than any of the older iPads."

"Well, Anderson Tech did put the other Big Tech corporations out of business before the Civil War." Alex said.

"And it was a prime opportunity for them to step in."

"Well, I'm just glad that they are helping us catch up," Asuna expressed as the four began to enjoy their lunch. They happily ate as they went about their chitchat. Kazuto took a bite of his own sushi, and gave a satisfied smile.

"So, how are your parents been, Asuna?" Alex asked before taking a bite of the sushi.

"Well they are doing well, but things could be better for my mother," Asuna said.

"You remember that Kyouko Yuuki was a professor of economics for Tokyo University?" Kazuto asked.

Alex nodded. "I remember hearing something like that."

"She was put on leave," Kazuto told him. "Apparently, the Dean at the University became concerned about the well-being of the other students attending there and didn't want to risk any possible attacks from Hydra."

"And citing that and harm to the reputation of the University," Asuna said with disdain. "They pinned all that on Mother."

"Even after what had happened back in January." Kazuto shook his head. "The media blew the whole arranged marriage out of proportion."

Asuna looked exasperated for her mom. "She did arrange it, but they make her sound like the bad woman when she herself was deceived and nearly lost her own life," she complained, "and now they make my family suffer more than they need to."

"Even though she and her father arranged our marriage." Kazuto sighed. "It's like they've forgotten our Valentine's Day wedding."

Alex looked sympathetic. "If there is one thing I can say about media... They always twist the truth to fit their narratives. They thrive off controversy. It was the same back in America, before they were all either knocked down or absorbed by Anderson Tech."

Suguha rolled her eyes. "It just never ends, it's like the ways of the Modern-age world remained after everything that happened a few years ago."

Alex looked to Asuna, "so what is she doing now?"

"She's been trying to find some hobbies, to keep her spirits up." Asuna answered. "Though I overheard her and Father talking about her joining RECT as its financial advisor... she is good at reading stocks and managing money."

"Kind of risky, isn't it, Asuna-nesan?" Suguha asked.

"It is," Asuna nodded, "but given how the progress for RECT, it's very promising."

Asuna sighed, "and where else can she go right now? With the way our world is, the safest place for her to work would be where we have ownership of the place."

"At this point, it may be the only option for your family," Kazuto nodded towards his wife. "The economy is roiling right now with all the incriminations, disappearances of Hydra members in high corporate places, and everything not defense related just seems to be on the edge..."

"Even Anderson's having a hard time keeping track." Suguha added. "Despite that the company's doing their best to help corporations here up on their feet."

"That is remarkable." Asuna smiled. She then turned to Kazuto. "Hey honey?"

"Hmm?" Kazuto turned to his wife.

"You remember saying something about the World Seed a few months back?" She asked.

"Yes?" Kazuto had Andrew Mills help him make improvements with the World Seed given to him by Kayaba.

"What are you going to do with it?" Asuna asked. "And also, what of Kayaba? You've been on the phone with Kikuoka this morning..."

Now Alex was interested. "Yeah, what happened to him?"

Kazuto then grimaced. "They found him... he was found dead... shot in the head."

Suguha's eyes widen. "When?"

"You know, that's the curious part," Kazuto told his sister, "when they found him, he was wearing his NerveGear, but underneath, his head was heavily bandaged."

Alex remained silent for a moment before asking. "Who do you think shot him then? Was it Nobuyuki?"

"They weren't sure, and all the security cameras around his hideout were wiped," Kazuto shook his head. "All they know from autopsy was that there were bullet fragments from an assault rifle... but not enough of an injury to kill him outright."

"But who was with you after we defeated Nobuyuki?" Alex asked.

Kazuto hummed. "Well, it was definitely Kayaba..."

Alex began. "But how? If he's dead, how did..."

"It wasn't the bullet that killed him, but the fact that he did a full brain scan on himself," Kazuto said, "there were signs of thermal scarring."

"Full brain scan..." Asuna muttered. Her eyes widen as she realizes something. "You don't think Kayaba's an AI, do you?"

"To be honest," Kazuto shrugged, "I don't know."

"So, what are you planning to do with the World Seed?" Alex asked.

"I've been thinking about it since Kayaba gave it to me." Kazuto answered.

"We've been so busy with all that's happened," Asuna added.

"That's true..." Kazuto nodded.. "I'm planning to keep it. And I plan to release it when the time is right."

"Alright then," Asuna smiled, "and we'll all be there for you when you do..." She curled up against her husband and sighed happily. "Imagine all the games we'll have together."

Kazuto smiled as he cradled his wife. "And we'll make new memories in them as we do in the real world. And with Yui and Strea."

Asuna giggled as she continued snuggling against him.

Alex placed his arm around Suguha and held her. The two couples held each other quietly.

Inside the cafeteria:

Scott and Rika observe the garden from the cafeteria's window.

"There's Kazuto and Asuna, being husband and wife again..."

"Yep." Scott agreed. "They get to do more of that these days."

"Especially now that Kazuto's living with Asuna's family." Rika added. "Kazuto must be living like a king with Asuna!"

"I wonder who will move into Kazuto's old bedroom at his home?" Scott asked.

Rika shrugged.

"Hey, you two still have a lunch here," Keiko reminded. She and Tim are sitting in one of the tables near the windows.

"Yeah, maybe you shouldn't constantly spy on those two," Tim said.

"We're not spying, just checking up on our friends." Rika huffed.

"Not like we're jealous or anything," Scott assured.

"Right, that's the real reason you two are envying over the married couple." Tim rolled his eyes.

Rika sighed as she sat back down with Scott. "Alright."

Keiko nodded before resuming her lunch.

"You know that's just the thing..." Rika confided.

"I know..." Keiko said. "But still..."

"It makes me wish... that... that..." Rika was reluctant to say it aloud.

"We were married?" Scott was to the point.

"Scott!" Rika squeaked and blushed heavily. She almost cursed herself for letting her words lead to this aloud, while Scott nearly busted out laughing.

"What? you were about to say it."

Rika shot back at Scott with a glare, with a flushing-red face. "But Scott-"

"There's nothing to be embarrassed, Rika." Scott smiled before he hugs her. "After what we've been through, it's a nice thought."

Rika then smiled and hugs him back, "t-thanks, Scott."

"I'm just happy that we are no longer in some death game, fearing constantly for our lives and stiff bodies on hospital beds," Scott expressed, "and we have all the time in the world."

Rika giggled in a child-like manner. "That we do.. How about when we come of age?"

"That'll be great." Scott smiled. "Unless... You want to get hitched sometime this year or next year?"

Tim and Keiko looked incredulous. It was a surprise that they're more open with each other like that.

Rika gave a playful musing expression.

"You still remember after our time on the 55th floor?" Rika smiled.

"Um..." Scott blushed a bit.

"And after you rescued me from the X'rphan the White Wyrm." She continued. "I wonder how you stack up in the real world..."

Now, it was Scott's turn to blush.

"Um... we're eating here," Tim chuckled nervously. Keiko, on the other hand, was blooming red from Rika's suggestion.

"Rika, could you..." Keiko found herself unable to finish.

"Keiko's right, Rika." Scott agreed. "Perhaps we could discuss it privately."

Rika pouted playfully.

Scott leaned towards Rika's ear and whispered. "But don't worry, we'll see if we could... Have some fun one night.."

"Tempting," Rika laughed, "but my parents would kill me if we did it for real."

"That's true..." Scott shrugged. "But isn't the age to consent at 17? I think that's the age if I recall..."

"Yeah, but they did say that if I become old enough to sleep with a man, it will be done as a married woman," Rika laughed.

"I guess we should try to one-up Kirito and Asuna then." Scott chuckled. "Hope your parents have a dowry ready!"

Rika laughed some more. Meanwhile, Tim and Keiko tried to ignore their snippets.

Meanwhile:

Captain Thomas Anderson was in his office, finding himself facing his greatest enemy outside of heroism and war... the mundane paperwork of military reports on top of being the co-chair of Tokyo's SAO/ALO Survivor's School. It wasn't new for him as he did this before while CEO of Anderson Tech Industries before and after the civil war. As such, he was hardly daunted by the work, especially when compared to younger officers, even including Captain Burke, who would rather be drilling or shooting something.

Speaking of Captain Burke... Anderson could not help bit be a little exasperated as he was having to play reserve lately. Howler Platoon was being sent on numerous missions throughout Japan, and both Colonel Rogers and Anderson himself were preoccupied with the logistics of Operation Finalizer while Captain America II and Iron Man II were taking the lead without their superiors' involvement.

He also began going through the paperwork that involved Anderson Tech Industries. It was both good and bad news...

Anderson groaned as he overlooked a few papers. It was true that Anderson Tech was seeing increased revenue and business on both sides of the Pacific, but it also meant that the State Department was harping on Anderson's Japanese footprint more. They were scrutinizing his Japanese holdings and insisting on more inspections to ensure ITAR compliance.

Anderson himself had predicted this would occur. After all, he was a strategist. Despite serving the US Air Force for a few years, his strategy had helped the US Armed Forces in several ways. Even after he left to run his family company and raise a family. And when the Sokovia Accords became law and presidential candidate was killed by the government, he sought to prepare Anderson Tech and the Militia against the US government when the time came.

He also used his shares and dealings to get the American industries up and running, ranging from steel and vehicle manufacturing to weapons. Not to mention creating a partnership with Wakanda to have access to Vibranium and engineering experts. Anderson also managed to increase the agriculture for America before and after the civil war. Which gave a jump-start to the restoration of America, but it was a slow recovery.

"Maybe I should consider that hearing on the Cosair Act..." Anderson muttered. He then found the reports regarding the matter. It was a hotly contested law that had supporters and detractors among American entrepreneurs and military flag officers. After the war, Anderson agreed to help rebuild America's military after Anderson himself had issued an embargo against the old US Government back in early-2018. It was both a blessing and a curse, in that it caused friction with otherwise patriotic military officers who regarded largely autonomous military entrepreneurs and their private armies with varying levels of concern and distrust.

An act that was geared towards the old US government regarding with the Sokovia Accords, it also caused Western US states, mainly California, Oregon, and Washington to create embargos against Anderson Tech and their products in return. This also includes North-Eastern states such as New York to Maine. If passed, then it would enable entrepreneurial citizens to act on behalf of the United States in acts of war against its enemies with monetary compensation, in exchange for said citizens contributing to the training and logistics of the standing United States Armed Forces.

"At least the American Rangers could make a comeback, somewhat." Anderson said thoughtfully. "I'd help take the fight to those jokers with less red tape."

He grinned at the thought of the other military officers fuming over the fact that they can't touch him again. While he was considered a loose cannon by the others, the threat of Hydra will protect him and the decision that'll give Anderson the means to quickly rebuild the military. This also includes green-lighting several military projects he's been drafting for the past few years. Still, he needed to be careful not to antagonize his rivals too much, and to do a good job persuading his colleagues to his way of thinking. After all, he wanted respectful disagreements to turn into collaboration for a better military.

That also included Captain America II, who still commanded great respect alone with his father. He's the last person that he want to provoke. Yet, for all of Chris' traditional military beliefs and frequent disagreements, Anderson found him a very reliable soldier to work with in decades.

He continues looking into the paperwork, he stumbled on one regarding RECT. The stocks and sales of the Japanese company have stabilized in the past few months since a partnership is formed. Still, the reputational damage and the Hydra scare were hard to undo in the minds of many people. RECT was forced to settle lawsuits by players and their families in the tens of millions of US dollars for damages ranging from endangerment to violation of privacy.

Anderson shook his head. It'll take some time before RECT can fully heal. RECT Progress itself was disbanded, but many who were not captured or whose name happened to be Naomi Ootomi were still at large as terrorist fugitives.

She and her family are located in a safe house, away from the public eye. They deserve some peace in mind after what they went through. Nonetheless, it was still a huge disruption, as she had to halt her current college education at Tokyo University and go to online college for her own safety.

Anderson thought that Asuna was having it rough while trapped in ALO. It turns out Naomi was in the same boat.

Suddenly, his intercom beeped. Anderson pushes the transmit button. "Anderson here."

"Captain," the voice came in, "I was told by Howler Platoon that Captain America will be late due to an incident involving a supply convoy to Camp Fuji. He's been ordered to provide rapid relief to the convoy."

"Very well, thank you for notifying me." Anderson replied. He sat back and sighed... of course Captain America had to be held up by an insurgent ambush...

Above the forests of Mount Fuji:

Captain America II flew with his ExoWings alongside Iron Man II. They were told to scramble to relieve the Marines being ambushed by Hydra insurgents as they attempted to resupply Camp Fuji with heavy weapons and armored suits.

"Come on, Iron Man," Captain America II urged, "we've got to bail out the jarheads before their shipments get looted."

"I'm pinpointing their location now." Iron Man II stated as he scanned the tops of the trees.

Captain America then called in. "Overlord, requesting an open channel to Camelback 2-1. Please send me their frequency."

"Copy that, sending their frequency now." Overlord replied.

Continuing to control his wing thrusters via neurolink, Captain America tapped on his wrist pad. "Camelback 2-1, this is Howler 7-1 Actual, status report!"

There was static for a moment before a voice replied. "This is... Camelback 2-1," his coughs interrupted him. "We're under heavy fire... we've just lost two of our six LAVs, and we've got those white stormtroopers and their helis trying to steal our container modules!"

"I found them!" Iron Man II called out. "I'm homing on their location now!"

"2-1 check your fire," Captain America II advised as they vectored in, "we are coming in high from the north."

"Copy that, Howler 7-1 Actual. We'll hold out 'til you get here. Camelback 2-1 out."

The two American superheroes drew closer to the battle as smoke from the flaming LAVs rose from the air. Iron Man II scanned the surrounding forests to detect any heat signatures. "Contact... multiple foot mobiles and low flying helis."

"Lieutenant, destroy the helis and any other armored support," Captain America II ordered, "I'll handle the stormtroopers."

"Affirmative, Captain." Iron Man II acknowledged before flying towards the helis and firing his repulsor palm blasters, taking down one of the helis, sending it spinning towards the ground and exploding in a fireball. He focuses his attention on the second heli and took out its tail rotors, it slammed against one of the trees and toppled over.

Captain America II deployed two frisbee grenades and chucked them hard at another gunship. They exploded on impact and sent the chopper down in flaming debris. The stormtroopers ran for cover as the airborne Captain laid down suppressive fire with his M4v1. The Marines looked up, and hollered and whopped at their national hero coming to the rescue. Iron Man II takes down two more enemy helis with ease.

Captain America continued to fire as he landed next to a marine lieutenant taking cover behind a truck. "Captain America! You're our rescue!?"

"We're it, lieutenant," the Captain affirmed, "let's push them back and move out before they regroup!"

Burke then saw a sudden muzzle flash, and flashed up his shield to block a head shot meant for the marine. Iron Man II spotted the muzzle flash and aimed the sniper shoulder attachment and took down the sniper.

"Got you covered, sir!" He spotted another sniper making a move and quickly took him down as well. Captain then jumped from cover to cover among the vehicles as he traded fire with the stormtroopers. He pulled out a frisbee grenade and chucked it towards the stormtroopers that were hiding behind one of the trees. The shrapnel cut into bark and trooper as it exploded behind cover. The rest that were unscathed, attempted to run towards another group of trees. Only to be cut down by Iron Man's repulsor blasts.

"Focus fire on the raiders around the container trucks and secure the cargo!" Captain America yelled as he fired and threw solid frisbees at the stragglers.

Iron Man II adjusted his aim and cleared the raiders that were trying to break open one of the container trucks. Some of them wisened up and began to break off the ambush as Captain and Iron Man advanced, with the helicopters making for the hills at high speeds.

Iron Man II fired a small missile from his wrist and managed to take out one of them. Captain America took down two more troopers with his rifle and frisbees before holding two more at gunpoint. "Drop them," he commanded, "you're alone and surrounded."

However, the two men just looked at each other and flashed their pistols at the Captain. He just quickly clicked a switch on the side of his helmet, and the star on the front of the helmet flashed a blinding light that stunned the two raiders. Captain America then ran up to slap the pistols from their hands and club them in the heads with the butt of his rifle.

Then, there was silence. The shooting has finally stopped. Captain America inspected the trucks with his rifle and shield deployed for any remaining hostiles as the Marines moved in. Meanwhile, Iron Man II continued to scan the surrounding area.

"All hostile Hydra remnants have been eliminated." Iron Man II stated.

"Clear!"

Captain America looked to the Marines, who also gave their call outs. Seeing no more enemies, the Captain declared, "clear!"

Iron Man II landed near one of the container trucks and scanned it. Captain America came up to his adjutant. "Status?"

"The supplies are intact." Iron Man II answered. "No sign of tampering."

The two glanced over towards the other container trucks, some of which were not as lucky...

Captain then turned to the supply convoy leader. "What did they take?"

"We were carrying small arms and large quantity of artillery shells," he answered. "We also had a lot of spare fuel cells to power the armor we're delivering."

"Fuel cells, as in arc reactor fuel cells?" Captain questioned. "How many?"

About... About twenty."

Captain America II pursed his lips. What was even more troubling was that this was no ordinary supply convoy, but a specially selected MARSOC detachment specializing in such high-priority transfers. The combination of such fuel cells with heavy ordnance was a recipe for some high-octane terrorism.

"Please tell us that was all they took and no other fuel," Iron Man II asked.

"We've checked the rest of the cargo. And that's all they've took."

Captain America then got on his radio. "Overlord, this is Howler 7-1 Actual, we've linked up with Camelback 2-1 and secured the site. Be advised that we've got sensitive inventory missing, and we have enemy foot-mobiles as POWs for interrogation."

"Copy that, Howler 7-1 Actual. Secure whatever cargo left, we'll have an escort to transport the POWs back to base." Overlord replied.

"Interrogative, Overlord, what of the stolen shipments?" Captain asked.

"We're sending in Recon forces to help locate the stolen cargo. Secure the convoy and return to your assignment in Tokyo, Captain."

"Copy that, Overlord. Howler 7-1 Actual out." Captain turned to the convoy leader. "Alright, get the convoy running again, we'll protect you from the air."

"Thanks Captain America and Iron Man," the lieutenant cheered, "you two are the real deal."

"Let's save the thanks until you reach the camp," Captain America said as he and Iron Man both rose back in the air. The convoy leader headed back to the lead MRAP and the convoy started to move again.

Five minutes later, the convoy was safely at base, with Marines cheering Captain America in the air. As both he and Iron Man II landed at the center of the base. They were surrounded by Marines as their base commandant approached.

"Captain America, Iron Man." The base commandant greeted.

"Commandant," Burke saluted, "Captain America, reporting the safe passage of your supply convoy, sir. They were attacked by Hydra remnants. We were able to save most of your men and shipments from their attack, though."

"How much?" The Commandant asked.

It was Iron Man II who spoke up. "Small arms and large quantity of artillery shells, combined with arc reactor fuel cells were stolen. My Captain alerted Okinawa to send Force Recon to track them down."

"Alright then. The sooner those supplies are recovered, the better." There was some dread in the commandant's voice. "Nonetheless, thanks for saving this unit from being wiped out."

"Just doing our jobs, sir." Iron Man quipped with a salute.

"We serve at the behest of our country and forces," Captain America affirmed. He glanced towards the convoy, which the soldiers are unloading their cargo and taking them to the armory. "Lieutenant, it's time we returned to Tokyo."

"Yes sir, Captain." Iron Man nodded. The Camp Fuji commander saluted. "Godspeed to you, Captain America and Iron Man."

"Hooah," Captain relied simply with his quick salute, before unfolding his ExoWings and blasting off.

SAO/ALO Survivor School:

Kazuto was in his gym clothes with the rest of his class... and found himself eyeing his wife with her physique. While she wore her sports t-shirt and shorts, the red/white color was a eye-catcher for him. Meanwhile, Asuna looked around at the rest of the class, which was actually composed of most of her and Kazuto's friend group. Even Suguha was present with Rika and the others.

"Why are they having us stand out here in this brisk chill?" Suguha shivered a bit, "couldn't they have us inside for this?"

"I think they want us to see if our super powers kick in." Rika suggested.

Kotone was shivering as she gave Rika a look. "W-what makes you think that w-we have powers?"

"Didn't they have that scanner device at the school's clinic?" Rika asked. "They were scanning us to see if we have powers."

"If we did... wouldn't they... have told us?" Nijika muttered.

"Hey, don't forget some of them are military," Momiji reminded, "they get to choose to tell or not tell."

Keiko was shivering. "I... I think they'll... appear when we... we're under stress... or something..."

The boys themselves were either shivering or rubbing their arms, except for Kazuto and Alex. The boys themselves were a little less bothered however, especially Alex who had a cocky smile thanks to a certain kind of emerging power of his.

"Doesn't feel chilly." Alex smirked.

"Yeah..." Kazuto grinned as he looked to the other guys, "you guys should be enjoying this breeze!"

Randy, though shivering, glared at Kazuto. "Easy for you to say, you and Alex have heat abilities."

"Why are we standing out here waiting!?" Kenji sneezed.

"I don't know.." Tim rubbed his arms.

Scott then pointed. "Here comes our gym teacher..." All the boys and girls laid eyes on the buff Japanese coach coming over. Everyone started to quiet down, putting up with the breeze as their coach stood before them.

"Students," the gruff and strict civilian coach before them began. "As you have noticed, that we're doing our activities outside."

"However... as of today, there is a change of leadership." That drew some stares. "I've been told that a couple of officers will also be teaching you on physical education. Lately, I've been seeing many of you slack off on your physical rehabilitation. Despite seeing some making great recovery, it's best that all of you return to your peak condition. And to that end, the school administration has seen fit to... accelerate this particular class."

Everyone was surprised from the sudden revelation.

"So first of all... let's introduce the new instructor, for the ladies..." Out came a female officer in her mid-thirties.

"Captain Melody Locust." The female officer introduced herself. Some of the students noticed an accent in her voice. An Eastern European origin. "I am from the US Air Force, under the authority of Captain Thomas Anderson. I'll be instructing the female students here."

She was quite a slim, yet muscular woman. She also had turquoise eyes and blonde hair. Some of the male students also took notice of her appearance. Blondes after all did attract a lot of attention in Japan.

"She looks familiar." Alex whispered to Kazuto.

"You know her?" Kazuto asked.

"I've seen her image in news reports during the second civil war." Alex continued that Melody was one of the friends of Jennifer Anderson, and a fellow officer of the US Air Force. "No one knows much about her background, except that she was a very good pilot with high mechanical aptitude. She even helped made repairs and improvements for fighter jets of the Free States. Including one Timothy Anderson. Thomas' older brother."

"Huh..." Kazuto hummed. He then looked around. "So where is the instructor for us guys then?"

Alex shrugged. "Maybe either Anderson himself or Captain America."

The coach then looked up in the sky, and saw two figures flying towards the school, one red and gold metal, and the other in his signature blue and white with mechanical wings.

"There he is..."

One of the boys pointed to the sky. "Hey everyone, up in the sky!"

Everyone looked up towards the sky to see the blue and white figure with wings coming towards them and slowed down for a landing.

"Whoa!" Randy gasped in awe.

"Wait a minute, Captain America?" Kenji asked.

"In a wing-suit?" Nathan added.

Alex and Kazuto looked closely... no, the ExoWings were backpack mounted. Kazuto then gave a friendly nudge towards Alex. "Gotta hand it to him, he knows how to make an entrance."

Alex squinted. "Well, butter my biscuit..."

Captain America II landed at the center, Captain Melody and the Coach moved to the side to give him space.

"Captain America," Melody saluted with a proud smile.

"At ease, captain," Burke answered back with a quick salute. Suguha was dumbfounded with most of the other girls.

"Captain America here will be instructing with the boys here." The coach said with a smirk. "I expect the boys to follow his instructions to the letter."

Some of the boys looked nervous. Especially as Captain America took off his helmet to reveal his striking resemblance to the last Revere, elliciting gasps from other survivors.

"Still hard to believe." Scott whispered to Tim.

"I know, and he really does like like his brother... but steelelier." Tim remembered Revere/Taylor's joy and kindness.

"Something tells me that we're gonna get our workout boot camp style." Scott murmured. Soldiers quickly attended to removing Captain America II's gear and weapons, and he the put on his patrol cap as he straightened his herculeanean broad shoulders with Iron Man II off to the side.

Some of the miscellaneous girls could not help but gawk and admire the Captain.

"They're all yours, Captain." The coach nodded before stepping aside for him to speak.

Suddenly, the steeley eyed Army super-soldier took on a very stern expression. "Good afternoon, you maggots!" He bellowed without so much strain, his voice echoing throughout the yard. Everyone was taken aback from the sudden volume of his voice.

"I am Captain Chris Burke for those who do not know! I've been getting word from this here school that you yahoos are not getting back into shape as you should be! Which is why Captain Locust and I were called here to make sure those goals are met!"

The Captain then began to pace the line of students as he continued to shout. "Just so we are clear... I got back from killing some no-good snakeheads in the forests of Mount Fuji, and I am not in jolly spirits!"

Melody then gave the boys a sympathetic look. 'Those poor boys don't know what they've got themselves into.' She thought.

It began to dawn on everyone that Chris Burke was a no-nonsense man as he continued. "I will not be Santa Claus or the Easter Bunny, but your worst nightmare!"

Tim felt his throat become dry.

"The regime that made me this lean and mean machine of rifle-shooting, frisbee-throwing, shield-bashing, knuckle-sandwiching dispenser of American might is gonna rip the fat outta ya and burn you down to the muscle!"

Kenji looked down at himself, while he's still slim and somewhat fit. "And all you boys and girls are gonna exercise until the cows come running home, and all of you wish gym is over every day!"

Everyone remained silent as they took the news in.

"You will hate me for what I will do, but you will all love the sweet relief of personal victory when I am through!"

'Oh great, we'll be exhausted by the end of the day.' Haruto thought.

"But here is what I will NOT tolerate!"

Haruto nearly jumped.

"I will not tolerate any quitting!"

'So much for trying to back out.' Haruto thought lambently.

"Anybody caught quitting will be told on to their mommies and daddies!"

"We weren't planning on quitting anyway." Alex whispered to Kazuto.

Suddenly, Chris pointed to Alex and Kazuto. "You two seem to have something interesting going on!" He bellowed for the yard to hear, "care to share!?"

Both Asuna and Suguha were taken aback at that.

Alex gulped before replying. "Uh, no. Nothing really important, sir."

"Hogwash!" Chris still had his voice raised, "I could hear you as sharp as a knife! Now say what you think is more entertaining than my singing voice!" Even the civilian coach looked at Captain America II like he was nuts, but Iron Man II just smiled from behind his helmet.

"Um..." Alex said sheepishly. "We're not quitting?"

"I cannot hear you!" Chris bellowed back.

Kazuto sighed and inhaled before yelling out, "we are not quitting, Captain!"

"Louder, both of you!"

"We're not quitting! Sir!" Both Kazuto and Alex yelled.

"Not quitting! I like that already!" Chris yelled back. "Better keep up that spirit when I start breaking you both down and running you through the dirt before building back up! In fact, that's what we'll do to the whole lot of ya!"

"Starting soon, y'all be doing push-ups and sit-ups!"

"Sheesh," Rika muttered, "all that for a few basic exercises? Lame"

Chris suddenly turned his attention to the girls. "Who said that?" He marched over with Melody following him. "Who said that!? Who is the little miss sissy calling pushups and situps lame!?"

Rika felt her face bloom red in embarrassment.

"Nobody!?" Chris inspected the line of incredulous females. "Don't think I didn't hear that! If you disagree with me, show your face to me and Captain Locust this instant!"

"M-Me..." Rika said meekly as she raised her hand up.

"You there, Crimson Head!" Chris pointed to Rika "You think Captain Locust and I are lame!?"

"N-No sir!" Rika called out.

Keiko and Suguha were beside Rika, quite intimidated with the Captain's drill sergeant persona directing his ire on the normally tomboyish Rika.

"No huh!?" Chris called out, "then you're not a Miss Sissy either, are you!?"

"No sir!" Rika yelled louder.

"Then who are you, Miss!?" Melody suddenly got into the act, though she was clearly less booming than Chris.

"Rika Shinozaki!"

"Rika Shinozaki!" Chris yelled, "you make it a habit to talk while your elders are talking!?"

"No sir!"

"I thought so!" Chris then paced again, "because anybody caught talking over me and Locust are going to be made to yell for the whole school to hear!"

Rika gulped.

"Next, I do not tolerate whining and bellyaching! That is for losers and little kids whose grandmommies spoil to death! Heck, I catch you doing that, I will torment you with my singing voice point blank like my daddy!"

'He's crazy!' Suguha thought.

No one dared to speak up.

"Last but not least," Chris intensified his voice, "I do not tolerate cheating, bullying, shortcutting, or lying of any kind! Anybody caught breaking this sacred rule, will face the wrath of this one man United States Army, and the whole school will know what a scumbag you are until your penance is up upon our saying so!"

'Guess we'll have to prove our best then.' Randy thought.

"With that said, it's time to get to work!" Captain America II bellowed as he jogged back over to the boys. "Now fall in maggots!"

"Ladies, fall in!" Melody yelled.

All of the students fell in line with their respected trainers.

Scott grinned to himself. 'Man... just in high school, and now I get a boot camp experience!'

However, most of the others tightened up as Chris gave them the evil drill sergeant eye. "Look at this whole line of maggots... you call yourselves men, let alone boys!?"

He suddenly pointed a finger at Scott's abs. "Look at this! If I had worse eyesight, I think I'd mistake it for dough!"

'Dough?!' Scott felt insulted and embarrassed.

"In fact, I could stick a finger into one of your bellies with super strength, you'd all mold under my whim! That's what you maggots are! Doughboys, worse than boys! If you all are supposed to be survivors," Captain America held up his hands, "then I am Mickey Mouse!"

Scott felt his face bloom, but choose to hold his tongue. Kazuto could not help but wonder what had gotten into the usually composed second Captain America, and what this was supposed to accomplish.

Suddenly Chris mockingly imitated the famed mouse. "Hiya doughboys," he shockingly did a perfect imitation, "good to see you here for my house of knocks! Aha!" He even got the laugh right, to the point that some of the American boys almost began to laugh.

Iron Man II and some of the teachers and guards watching could not help but laugh at the insanity that was drill instructor Captain America II.

"I don't think everyone here knows who Mickey Mouse is, Captain." Iron Man II laughed.

However, Captain America II ignored him as he suddenly barked, "wipe those silly grins off, doughboys!" That got Alex and the others to shut up. "You will not laugh, you will not cry, you will learn pain and perseverance like me and the soldiers under me! Is that understood!?"

"Yes sir!" The students roared.

"Is that dough in your voices!? I can't hear you!"

"YES SIR!" Their voices bellowed. Alex swallowed hard, he forgot how much it hurt in real life to yell like that.

"Now hit the deck and assume push-up positions!" Captain America ordered.

Everyone dropped to the ground, preparing themselves for push-ups.

"Ladies, ready!" Melody called out.

"Maggots, ready!" Captain called out after her. "Twenty-five push-ups on our repetition!"

That drew groans from both boys and girls. "I said no bellyaching!" Captain barked.

Both Captain America and Melody got down on their hands, ready to lead the exercise. Asuna was glad to have her hair tied into a bun before arriving. Yet somehow, she got the feeling that her husband and the boys were both going to eventually get most of the crazed Captain's wrath with this new PT regime...

'Definitely the opposite of Taylor.' She thought ironically.

After the pushups:

Alex's arms were just sore after the frantic pace that Captain America set. Kazuto, on the other hand, felt his arms sore for a few seconds before dulling. The girls faired a little better with Melody's gentler pace, so they finished just a little later, but they too were mostly sore. With the exception of Asuna and Suguha of course.

Rika instinctively said, "oh my aching arms..."

"No whining," Melody called out. Rika pouted as she rubbed her arms.

"It's okay, Rika." Suguha reassured her.

"Alright girls and doughboys, time for some jumping jacks!" Captain America yelled, "you kids love jumping jacks!?"

"Of course we do, sir!" The students bellowed.

"How many can you all do!? Twenty-five, thirty, thirty-five, forty!?"

"Forty, sir!"

"Nonsense! I say you doughboys and girls got it in ya to do fifty!"

Kenji glared at the Captain like he was mad.

"You heard me, Kenji! I said fifty!"

Kenji was startled, but then remembered that Captain America had super-senses. This Captain happened to be fully exploiting all that in his role as the insane drill instructor.

"Now, let's get to it, doughboys and girls!" Captain America led the dynamic jumping motion which some hoped would help sooth the aching arms... they would end up wrong.

Everyone felt their arms ache some more. Now they could count their feet in the pain fest for all that jumping. Kazuto had no trouble at all as he kept up with the jumping-jacks. Even Asuna found herself being invigorated, with stamina she knew was derived from her powers.

Alex, however, was feeling the burn and it's not his fire powers. Captain Chris Burke was insane with the PT, that he learned very quickly.

'I'm probably gonna die by the end of the day!' He thought.

Of course, the said American hero was hardly labored in his breathing as he barked, "hey, you all looking awfully stiff! You all better not be dying on me!"

"No sir!" The students yelled.

"You all look so stiff, that I can see the clammy whites on you! You doughboys and girls could pass for geishas or clowns with too much makeup if I didn't know better!"

Melody looked a little sympathetic, but nonetheless carried on the act. "Well if they are clowns sir, they are the least funny clowns I've ever seen!"

Some of the girls turned their heads towards Melody in shock.

'She's going along with this!?' Keiko was straining from the burns, both from the strain and the verbal barrages of Captain Burke's regime. However, she wasn't gonna quit, especially on the first day.

"I saw we put in stretches to liven them up, sir!"

"I love that suggestion, Captain Locust!" Captain Burke yelled back. "Wring the kinks and knots out of them like the wet rags they are!"

Some of the boys turned white upon hearing this.

"Arm stretch! Right to left!" Captain America quickly demonstrated stretching his right arm to the left and held it in the crook if his left elbow, with Melody following. "Assume position!" Everyone did, though some of the girls and boys did the opposite.

"Your left, not mine scumbags and pussycats!" Burke scolded.

The few students corrected their mistakes and continued stretching.

"Count to ten!" Both Chris and Melody yelled. "One!"

Everyone groaned mentally, but counted as they were told. After that, they switched arms to the opposite side. After another count if ten, Chris kept up his voice as he said, "lunge right!"

Everyone lunged to their right and counted to ten. They also did the same to their left.

'Hey this is not so bad...' Suguha smiled to herself a bit as she felt some of the tightness being stretched out. She used to take stretching exercises before practicing her kendo trainings.

"Leg stretch, doughboys and pussycats!" Chris and Melody suddenly lifted and held their knees. The boys and girls did the same, though many started hopping as they struggled with balance. "I did not ask for jumping jacks!" Chris was totally relentless, "balance yourselves or I will have you tied to sticks!"

Everyone wobbled as they maintained their balances.

"Count to ten!"

Everyone did so, some managed to keep their balances. They did another round of leg/knee stretches, with the same results.

"What is this. Some of you were wobbling and teetering like jelly! For that, the next stretches are extended by five counts!"

Some of the students groaned. Captain America shot his arms up. "Raise arms! Stretch like you're singing Hallelujah!"

Everyone raised their arms over their heads to stretch. However, they'll have to count to fifteen.

'Oh man... and my arms feel like lead!' Alex was sweating. Suguha was doing a little bit better than Alex. Though she had to admit that the pace of this regime was more strenuous.

Soon, everyone finished counting to fifteen. "And the final stretch will compose of everyone touching their toes for a solid count of fifteen!"

"Remember, to keep your legs straight as you do so! Don't bend knees! You bend you knees any of you, and we will restart the whole thing!"

Everyone hunched over and stretched to touch their toes. Nijika was all ragged as she thought, 'if anybody makes us restart this, I'll kill them...'

Haruto strained as he stretched for his toes. Scott was really hating this side of Captain America as he struggled to not strain his spine. Even Tim was struggling to not strain himself.

"On my count! One!"

Everyone stretched as far as they could towards their toes. Rika and Keiko strained as they struggled to keep backs straight and fingers touching their shoes. "Two!"

Randy strained, but managed to keep himself straight and his fingers touching his toes. 'Gotta keep up.'

"Three!"

Kotone feel herself sweating as she strained. In the back of her mind, she imagined Damion watching her.

"Four!"

Suguha was keeping up fine, it was beginning to feel easy for her.

"Five!"

Kazuto struggled with Alex, but managed to maintain himself.

"Six!"

Asuna breathed steadily as she focused on touching her toes, not thinking of anything else.

"Seven!"

Asuna felt a sense of calm as she focused on her goal.

"Eight!"

'Is there no end to this?' Kenji thought as he struggled.

"Nine!"

Momiji grit her teeth. She was a tough girl. And she's gonna prove her instructors wrong.

"Ten!"

'How long?' Rika thought, sweat dropped from her forehead.

"Eleven!"

'Just a few more.' Keiko thought.

"Twelve!"

'It hurts!' Shinichi was not having a good time with Captain America going all drill instructor on everybody.

"Thirteen!"

'I'm almost there!' Haruto screamed internally.

'Just two more seconds,' Nijika thought as her back was screaming pain.

"Fourteen!"

'One more second!' Alex strained.

"And fifteen!" However, suddenly Captain yelled out. "What the heck are you doing!?" He marched over to a young boy who had dropped to the ground early. "Did I tell you to stop, doughboy!?"

"Uuhhhh..." The boy groaned.

"Well congratulations! You just earned the 'scumbag of the day' award because we now have to restart the count," Captain America yelled.

This time, everyone groaned in disappointment.

"Now get back up!"

The boy struggled to get back up. Captain America then went back to his position and resumed the count.

By the time the count was successfully completed and everyone was allowed to stand back up, most boys and girls were breathing hard. Kazuto, Asuna, and Suguha were sweating, but not breathing hard like the rest. Even Alex managed the second time. Most of the others however were getting a serious reality check of how out of shape they were, especially the SAO survivors when compared to their ALO counterparts.

'At least Klein and Andrew don't have to go through this.' Scott thought. 'This Captain is wearing us down!' He glanced sideways to see nearly all the boys and girls red and sweating.

"Next exercise that everyone loves! How about some situps, doughboys and pussycats!"

'Oh joy, situps.' Tim thought bitterly.

'Oh no, please no,' Keiko was screaming to herself for this hour to be over soon. 'Haven't we suffered enough?'

Yuuki manor - in the basement:

Kyouko Yuuki turns on the light switch before descending down the stairs. It had been ages since she had opened this room...

Dust and cobwebs coated the various furniture and items covered in tarps. Anticipating this, she had Sada follow behind her. She had dusters and wipes on standby. Sada looked very nostalgic. "I never thought I'd see this place again."

Kyouko Yuuki on the other hand, felt not only nostalgia, but also bittersweet memories. There was more to this cavernous room hidden behind the walls and floors...

She approached the far end of the wall, being mindful not to trip over anything. She approached and wiped with her hand to reveal the seams of a hidden panel. She turns one of the dials and flips the small switch on the panel and the wall opens up slowly. The wall opened up to reveal a technologically advanced armory of sorts...

Amongst them are Kyouko's old costume in display next to her husband's costume. Kyouko laid her hands on the glass separating her from her white, skin-fitting outfit with its long skirt and corset. The outfit also came with a mask that covers her eyes.

There were also long gloves and long boots that covered the leggings of the form-fitting suit pants. And a white cape is seen sewn to the shoulders on the back. It was a rarity for her to display a cape with her costume as most of the super heroes, mainly, the original Avengers, hardly used capes with their costumes.

"Such memories..." Kyouko muttered.

"I can still remember when you were Shirou no Jou like it was yesterday," Sada fondly remembered. "All the lives you and Shouzou saved, the criminals captured, and the evil stopped." Sada was among the first Kyouko entrusted with her secret after all. As well as maintain the costumes when not on active missions. She could also remember the happy day when Kyouko discovered her hero and senpai to be the same boy.

And after they wedded, they continued on their missions of saving lives and stopping evil from harming the innocent. Their friends even became part of a team. She and Shouzou did their best to keep in touch with them after their adventures ended. While some of them continued on, while others, like her and her beloved, retired to a quiet life. In many ways, their upper class status allowed them some measure of anonymity in plain sight.

And now, recent events have her reconsider their situation. Most of all, her daughter Asuna with her super gifts along with her husband. The only problem was that they were living in a society that was not only grappling with corruption, but was still not widely accepting of such unique individuals in its conformist culture. Despite being normal elsewhere in several nations, Japan was a different story after everything. It was one of many where at the very least, metahumans were treated with fear and suspicion, and at worst, full legal repression and surveillance.

Kyouko shook her head in disbelief. It was yet another reason why she and her husband gave up their heroism once they had finished. In the end, Japan was still not accepting of unique people, and now she feared for her family's future.

"Kyouko?" Sada asked, snapping her out of her thoughts. Kyouko lowered her hand from the display.

"Sorry, Sada. It's just..." Kyouko paused.

Sada smiled understandingly. "I know, my old friend..."

The basement fell silent. "I never wanted this for Asuna... I never wanted her to experience this kind of world," Kyouko admitted. "But now, everything's been flipped upside-down. I fear what will happen to her and Kazuto-kun in this country."

"I understand, Kyouko." Sada nodded. "But no matter what happens, we'll all be there for them. And we have Anderson-san to help us if it gets worse. And they have you and Shouzou-kun."

Kyouko smiled at the reassurance she's receiving. "I suppose one day, I will choose to guide them... And... maybe, tell them the truth about our past..."

Sada noticed her mistress' change in mind. "Mrs. Yuuki?"

"Hmm?" Kyouko asked.

"You are sure about doing that, right?"

"Probably it won't be any time soon. But perhaps one day..." Kyouko trailed off. "But after what happened with the creature calling himself Hydra's Supreme Commander, I'm not wanting anymore secrets getting between me, Asuna, and Kazuto-kun."

"I understand..." Sada said.

"I will tell Asuna eventually, and how she inherited those powers," Kyouko resolved.

Back at the SAO/ALO Survivor School:

Everyone's running around the loop. It was among the last exercises of the class... and just nearly everyone was one their last legs with the introduction Captain America was giving. Kazuto, Asuna, and Suguha are keeping up with the group with ease.

"Come on, I know grannies who ran one mile runs better than this," Captain America kept up his taunting, "faster!"

'He's insane!' Rika was breathing hard as she continued to run. What could have possessed the Tokyo school to impose a military PT regime!?

Alex, Scott, and Randy are keeping up, Tim isn't fairing so well as he was lagging behind.

'Gotta catch up!' Tim sprinted to keep up with the others.

"Come on boys and girls!" Melody called out. "You can run faster than that!"

"Where is that survivor's speed!?" Burke went on, "you tortoises or something!?"

Nathan suddenly picked up speed, he manages to keep up with everyone. He huffed and puffed as he ran. Before he knew it, he was beginning to pass two of his classmates.

Soon enough, Captain and Melody started to notice.

'I'm doing it!' Nathan cheered internally.

"Captain!" Melody muttered.

"I know," the American icon replied, "I can see that."

Nathan has now passed several of his classmates, catching up with Kazuto, Asuna, and Suguha.

"Hey guys!" Nathan grinned.

"Whoo, go Nathan!" Alex called out.

Kotone was stunned by the American boy's speed. By the time everyone reached the end...

However, Nathan was running even faster.

"Whoa!" Keiko exclaimed.

"What the-" Tim muttered.

"Man, he runs fast!" Rika gasped.

"What did he eat?" Scott groaned.

"Didn't think he had it in him." Kenji admitted. As the group finished their final lap, practically everyone, except Kazuto, Asuna, and Suguha collapsed. Nathan on the other hand...

He found the whole run very easy all the sudden. He made laps around the loop several times. However, he noticed that how everything appeared as a blur.

Kazuto, Asuna, and Suguha watched as the blue and white blur zipped past them several times.

Asuna blinked, "super-speed!"

"I can't believe it!" Suguha gasped.

Kazuto watched and smiled with astonishment. 'I wonder how Strea would react to see his newfound powers?' he thought.

"Hey, hey!" Captain America called Nathan out. "You halt!"

Nathan's hears catches the voice calling out to him and he suddenly stopped. He skidded to a halt with ease before Captain America, Lieutenant Melody, and everyone else.

"What was that, doughboy?" Captain raised an eyebrow.

Nathan looked at his own feet, then back to Captain. "I'm not really sure, sir. When I started running, I felt myself at ease after a couple of laps."

"And?" Captain prompted.

"Everything else felt like time slowed down for me." Nathan answered. "I didn't realize it until I noticed everything blurring before me."

"I've detected high levels of energy activity while Kennedy here was running," she said to Captain.

However, Captain America just stared at the boy. "Interesting..."

Nathan was about to smile when Chris Burke suddenly barked, "BUT IT'S WRONG!"

Nathan was stunned. "W-Wrong? I don't understand."

"In case I went too fast for you, scumbag," Captain bellowed, "you failed! You abandoned your buddies and unit with that lightning pace of yours!"

"Now wait a minute, sir!" Nathan defended. "I never knew when these powers were gonna kick in! It just happened!" Nathan was sweating nervously.

"Let me teach you something, son! And this is for all to learn!" Captain bellowed for the other students to watch and hear.

Nathan remained silent as Captain moved closer. "One, a team is only as strong as its weakest link! Two, you do not leave formation in drills! Three!" Captain bellowed the last one, "you never leave a man or woman behind!"

"Shooting straight, Captain," Melody affirmed.

Nathan gulped.

"In fact, for that, drop and give me thirty NOW!"

Nathan quickly dropped to the ground and starts his push-ups. Others winced at the punishment of fifty push-ups. Captain then turned back to the rest of the students.

"Always remember!"

The other students wasn't sure if they should speak up or not.

"In battle or in civie life... You all leave no man or woman behind!"

"And sorry will not cut it for their friends and family," Melody warned with a raised voice.

Kazuto, Asuna, and the SAO survivors knew this. It was something they've learned during their time trapped in the game. Still, to hear this told to them in the real world at school...

They looked at Nathan, then turned towards Captain.

"Before I dismiss this class, let me be clear! Many of you surely hate me right about now! But this is for your own good! I've seen too many soldiers lose their lives due to recklessness! And regaining your fitness is as much a discipline of the mind as it is of the body!"

The students continued to listen while Nathan was halfway with this push-ups.

"Complete control of your powers is very important!" Captain continued. "No matter how unique you all are, it does not excuse lone-wolfing or any horseplaying. As far as we are getting started, y'all are equal, which means that y'all are the same out-of-shape sissies and rookies that need to be whipped back into shape!"

At this point, Nathan finished with his push-ups and got back up onto his feet. He felt wobbly from the punishment on top of everything else. He steadied himself as he form in line with the others.

"Y'all are not in some virtual mind game anymore! This is the real world! And in the real world, you can easily get yourselves hurt or killed if not careful! So get yourselves back into shape, or I'll make y'all cry uncle until the rooster crows! Do I make myself clear?!"

"Yes, Captain!" Everyone acknowledged loudly.

Then just on time... the bell rang. Melody nodded to the Captain that it was time to wrap up. "Very well," he called out, "DISMISSED!"

Comedically, most of the SAO survivors and some ALO survivors just collapsed in a heap. Captain America just looked on the whole gym class with a blank expression. "Y'all boys and girls need serious work," he said before turning and leaving with Melody.

"Well... That was interesting..." Kazuto said with a smirk.

"Very interesting indeed." Asuna agreed. Suguha was happy with herself and fellow ALO survivors, though she looked sympathetically at her boyfriend and her SAO counterparts who were just worked to the bone. She helped Alex up on his feet.

"Ow... now that really hurt," Alex groaned.

Randy helped himself up. "Well, that's how it is in training." He replied with a groan.

"What got into Captain Burke, seriously!?" Rika wanted to scream, but she just softly groaned. She had never been so openly challenged and called names to her face.

"I don't know, Rika." Scott stiffed as he struggled to get up, but collapsed back down.

"Why did he do all those things and yell at us?" Keiko was deflated. Tim couldn't say anything as he was lying flat on his back.

"And to think Damion had to go through all that." Kotone groaned.

"Is this what they call military school in America?" Shinichi practically had swirly eyes.

"C-Correct." Kenji replied, he rolled onto his stomach and slowly got up.

"What possessed Chris Burke to do all that!?" Nijika cried out, "he was yelling and pushing us like he was insane!"

Haruto crawled over and held Nijika.

"W-well, he is military..." Momiji was laying next to Nijika with Kenji slowly coming over.

Kazuto, Asuna, and Suguha began helping everyone up on their feet. Sounds of groaning can still be heard.

"That was utterly ruthless," Alex groaned.

"You're telling me." Shinichi agreed. Alex and Suguha had to help him up. "I thought he was gonna kill us with exhaustion." He added.

Kazuto and Asuna lifted up a rather heavyset guy with relative ease.

"Thanks." Scott said.

"So how was... your 'boot camp' experience, as you called it," Kazuto asked.

"Not what I had in mind." Scott admitted. "I can't believe guys like him endure it, and then impose it on us."

"And I thought being in the Knights of Blood was a military career." Asuna replied. "But now, this is the real deal.."

"I think this is still a fraction of what they do, honey," Kazuto chuckled. "But it's something that we all should get used to."

As everyone stumbled to the lockers, Asuna and Kazuto had a moment to themselves.

"Mmmm... Can't believe that we managed to keep up." Kazuto cooed. "Captain Burke was very fearsome after all."

"Never thought we see this side of him." Asuna admitted, but giggled. "And neither did everyone else."

"Then again, Kouichirou-niisan did say that he comes from one of the most stringent military colleges in his country."

"And during the second civil war as well." Kazuto added. So I guess this drill sergeant thing would come naturally to him."

"I do hope the others won't die from exhaustion." Asuna giggled.

"They'll live, I'm sure," Kazuto laughed. He then pointed to Asuna's abs. "I'm sure with more situps and ab exercises, you'll sport a sexy six-pack."

Asuna blushed. "I guess my muscle-toned body will be added to your fantasies of me." She teased before running her hands against Kazuto's abs and sides. "And you're gonna be my strong, toned knight."

Kazuto blushed deep red as Asuna flirted back. She leaned in and pecked Kazuto's nose with her lips. "It will make for more fun between us."

She then kissed his check as she gently pulled herself closer to him. "And make for some very... enduring... sessions."

Kazuto stammered. "S-Sure, we can do that, Asuna."

"Come here," Asuna planted a deep kiss on Kazuto's lips.

"Mmmmm..." Kazuto hummed with delight from his wife's soft lips.

Meanwhile...

SAO/ALO School Conference Hall:

Preston sat in one of the chairs. He was in his standard uniform, contrasting with Burke's Captain America utility uniform as they sat with the civilian coach in a full room of teachers and military officers of both nations involved. Even Captain Thomas Anderson is present in his standard uniform. However, he appeared as a hologram.

"Captain Anderson," Chris asked, mindful of decorum in front of other officers in this setting, "may I ask why you are not attending in-person as the chief American military overseer of this school? Even the superintendent and Japanese military overseer are here."

"Forgive me for this, but I was called away to an emergency requiring my attention," Anderson began to explain briefly... "And thus, I'm unable to attend the meeting in-person."

"Then I won't ask," Captain America said in resignation, not wanting to blow it in case Anderson was working on something confidential.

"On that note," Anderson moved on, "ladies and gentlemen of Japan, let me introduce my colleague and the new military physical class assistant, Captain Chris Burke."

Captain America stood up and nodded to everyone in the room. "It is an honor to be here."

Anderson continued. "And also, his second-in-command and fellow officer, Lieutenant Jack Preston."

"Greetings," Preston stood up and nodded before everyone. The two American heroes sat back down.

It was Kikuoka who spoke up. "Let's begin, shall we?"

The head coach then passed a document containing an agreement and lesson plans to Burke. "First off, I want to thank Captain Burke for accepting his position here."

"I was ordered to, mister," Chris muttered under his breath.

"And second," Kikuoka continued, "I assume that the training of the students have went well."

"They have promise... but they clearly need work" Chris told Kikuoka, "they are definitely out of shape."

"I see..." Kikuoka adjusted his glasses. "But I'm sure they'll be back in shape in no time."

"Though I'm a little concerned about the rigor of the course that you put forth," a female teacher said, "don't you think this is a little... too much, Burke-san?"

"It may come out like that at first, ma'am." Chris replied. "But it is necessary. They need to be strong and healthy, and I was ordered to be here by my commanding officer, and whatever I am ordered to do, I take it very seriously."

"Alright then." The female coach said.

Another teacher then said, "I do have a question about this... why did you include military hand-to-hand combat as a part of training?"

"As you are aware of, Both Kazuto and Asuna took on Hydra first-hand twice back in January." Chris answered. "And given the threats that have been posed towards the survivors, many of them being minors, I thought it prudent to eventually teach them some level of self-defense... as much as your country's laws permit anyways."

"That is correct, Captain Burke." the teacher acknowledged.

"Given that most of them would have seen combat, even if it was virtual," Captain elaborated, "it was still a life and death game no less. My concern is that given the amount of data Hydra collected through data siphoning and their unethical experiments afterwards, it would be safe to assume that they see combat potential in these children that would otherwise have gone unnoticed. Which is why combat training for the students is required in case Hydra tried to make further attempts to kidnap them."

"I don't know... didn't you say that Hydra had lots of guns?" Another teacher asked. Some of the military officers looked at him like he was dumb.

"A slight chance of survival and fighting back is better than none," Chris simply answered. "As I said, most of these students are gifted. At least the young couple are."

"Yes..." the civilian superintendent transitioned the topic, "about that..."

"I'm aware about the Japanese public about metahumans co-existing around us." Chris replied. "And I am indeed aware that many of you do not exactly... hold metas in high regard."

"That is correct." the civilian superintendent said.

"You of all people would be aware just how dangerous such power is in the hands of single individuals, Captain," the Japanese military overseer expressed.

"Your point?" Captain America II raised an eyebrow.

"My point is that the last thing we want is for innocent bystanders getting hurt or killed by those individuals if not kept in check. And not to mention the possibility of such powers winding up with mentally unbalanced individuals."

"Which is why discipline has been required to keep them in check under my training." Chris countered. "And how can you assume that they are invariably a threat?"

This time, no response came from anyone.

"I thought so," Chris deadpanned.

It was then Kikuoka spoke up. "Now that everything's been settled..."

"Captain Burke, you will only have to teach three consecutive days a week, as we worked out with your commander," Kikuoka said, "that will be Tuesdays through Thursdays, and will present the least disruption to your regular duties of commanding your company. Of course, in the event of emergencies or priority deployments, we will give deference to your duties."

"Understood." Chris replied.

"However, we do reserve the right to review and decide on the length of your tenure here at this school," Kikuoka added, "and your performance and perception as an instructor will be taken into account."

"Then I'll do my best whenever I'm here, sir." Chris added.

"Remember Captain America," the JSDF overseer warned, "you are a guest here. Any interference in our domestic political affairs will be dealt with appropriately."

"Please take that up with my president," Chris deftly deflected, "because I am no politician."

"Captain Burke's right, sir." Kikuoka agreed.

The overseer gave Kikuoka a slight glare, warning him of bordering insubordination. However, he saved face with. "In any case, we expect utmost professionalism given your educational background, Burke. Represent yourself well as a graduate of TMLA." Chris nodded, not wanting to draw out any tussles with this general.

The civilian superintendent was a bit intimidated by the atmosphere in the room. It was clear that there were tensions between his countrymen and the Americans. Quickly, he spoke up. "Now that we have matters set aside and nothing else needs to be said."

With that, the conference was dismissed. Captain Burke and Kikuoka are the last to leave.

Lieutenant Preston walked alongside his younger superior officer, who remarked to Kikuoka, "they do not like me."

"Don't take it personally," Kikuoka reassured, "they're just on edge after the whole Hydra scandal been exposed."

"They don't even trust the survivors," Chris objected, "they are children, Mr. Kikuoka."

"Interesting, coming from someone who fought child soldiers and radicals," Kikuoka remarked rather insensitively.

"Hey, that is nothing that any of us are proud of," Preston took umbrage. "We only did what we have to do. While some may be in question, but those actions were the right call. Even Anderson knew the risks as he saw early signs."

Chris narrowed his eyes. "Advice, Mr. Kikuoka, don't spurn the hands that keep your country's worst enemies across the Sea of Japan..."

"I'll make sure to keep the peace between the two nations." Kikuoka replied. "As well as keep an eye for more Hydra spies."

"You do your job, and me mine," Captain America II affirmed.

"Will do, Captain." Kikuoka acknowledged. "In the meantime, do take care around my superiors without alienating them."

"I'll do my best to keep on good terms." Chris said, despite his firm and stony tone of voice. Kikuoka thought to himself about how Chris Burke really sounded like his father. And with it, both men left the briefing room.

With Anderson:

Captain Anderson downed some coffee for his late night/early morning stint at the Groome Lake Base in Nevada. He was glad that the meeting with Captain Burke at the SAO/ALO Survivor School went well, despite some tensions with the JSDF officials. However, he has other business to attend. He walked out of the office building towards one of the nearest hangars.

After the Civil War, Anderson Tech leased part of the Area 51 base to help rebuild its military. It was approved under President Bruce Wilson to facilitate the military industrial cooperation post-civil war. This also includes the advanced agriculture technology being conducted both here and Wakanda, under King T'Challa's supervision.

"Ironic, I fought the old corrupted military industrial complex, and here I am helping a new one." As he entered the hanger, it was larger on the inside with military equipment, tools, and spare parts stacked in boxes. And by boxes... large shipping modules.

Anderson headed towards the work bench to look over the blueprints. However, the blueprints show details of a giant mechanized walker.

"It's not enough... but it is a start..." It was an idea that he had sometime after the civil war when Trinity took census of the deathtoll. When the numbers showed, he knew that America would be defenseless if a full-scale invasion against America would cripple their armed forces.

Anderson wanted to revolutionize the concept of the mechanized infantry. Even suggestion military concept of the Iron Patriot suits. Or specifically, the War Machine suits. While it faced skepticism and derision from many veteran officers, Burke included, Anderson believed that they would come round to it when it came to gaining the unfair advantage. But nonetheless, Anderson defended his plans to bolster the US Armed Forces and even the odds on a short notice. And now, with Hydra returning, it became clear that his plan came to fruition. The soldiers out on the battlefield needed quick response weapons that were as heavily armored as a tank, and mobile like fighters.

He also calculated how long the construction of the mech mobile walker will take. "If I can get this prototype going... we'll move to test phase immediately."

He had the proper tools and has several technicians from Wakanda to assist him. And last but not least...

"Anderson-taicho!"

Anderson turned to see Sato Ray approaching him. 2nd Lieutenant of the United States Air Force. Veteran of the second civil war during the battles in Colorado and Idaho. "Lieutenant Ray."

"You called to meet me here, sir?" Sato asked.

"Of course, I want a progress report on Project Dreadnought," Captain Anderson said.

"We managed to have the large version of the Arc Reactor built for the project." Sato reported.

"Really?" Anderson was excited. "Show me."

Sato pulled out a USB drive stick and plugged it into the laptop. The screen came on and the image of the Arc Reactor appeared, the reactor itself showed to be ultracompacted.

"As you can see, the reactor is ultracompacted." Sato explained.

"It's not much larger than a car engine," Anderson noted the dimensions.

"Correct." Sato said before continuing. "We were able to save weight and material with a number of forced liquid metal cooling systems that have allowed the system to be much more power efficient."

"Good to know." Anderson smiled. "We don't want too large of a weapons system."

"Not yet, at least." Sato added. "We're working on that next. Rest assured, we are working on this."

"Right. We'll focus on installing the arc reactor first." Anderson nodded. He showed the schematics of the intended prototype. The only weapon that is seen is a hand-held rifle designed for the walker.

"Just a few questions though," Anderson wondered, "why only one weapon, and why does the head unit looking like a samurai helmet?"

"Well, we're still testing on the repulsor ray technology for bigger weapons." Sato explained. "Like how you wanted to add them to ships throughout the US Navy one point."

"Right, I still remember that." Anderson sighed. He still remembered that most of the ships have railguns installed to increase firepower for the destroyers.

"As to your last question," Ray sounded sheepish. "We figured that it would be suitable for the prototype."

Anderson scrutinized the head with the twin eyes, mouth vents, and the crown-like double antennae. "And not because you're a well-known otaku around here?"

Sato nearly stammered upon Anderson's statement. "N-No sir."

"Because I couldn't help but think of something from a Japanese anime with how it looks," Anderson chuckled.

"Right.." Sato rubbed his nape sheepishly. "But you'd be amazed at how useful their design is. Once we get all of this put together, that is."

"You really are an anime fanatic," Anderson shook his head, "good thing Burke isn't here."

"Tell me about it." Sato groaned. "I guess someone forgot to tell him that 'all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy'," Sato snarked.

Anderson chuckled at Sato's remarks. He as glad that Burke isn't around to hear it.

"I'm still surprised that you were not made Captain America, captain," Sato added.

"Nah, I prefer the Iron Patriot title." Anderson replied. "I'm better with machines than I am bashing the snot out of people in the mud."

"Shame, I kinda imagined you as the next Captain America due to your determination to win." Sato admitted.

"Well... Steve knew Chris longer than he did me," Anderson conceded, "and I guess whatever he saw in that captain, that swung the odds. But, I wouldn't ask Burke questions about it." he added.

"Not one to boast," Sato remembered that much. Burke and his dad were very private individuals. And it was best to leave it at that.

"Anyways, the prototype," Anderson reminded.

"Right," Sato continued on with the details. "So as you can see, we've chosen to go with a humanoid design, and determined that the optimal size of such a weapons system is between a height of 17 to 19 meters."

'So 55 to 63 feet,' Anderson did the mental conversion.

"And we've also worked on to meet the goals of its top speed." Sato continued.

"But... you did indicate that this design cannot fly," Anderson noted.

"That is correct." Sato replied. "But once we have this properly tested, the future ones will have the ability to fly. It has a running speed of between 70 to 80 miles per hour, but it we can improve the thrusters for ground-level hovering, it could theoretically go up to one hundred miles per hour or more, and that is what will advance us to possible flight-capable prototypes in the future."

'Hovering thrusters. Good.' Anderson agreed mentally.

"Also, we'll have the cockpit of the walker to be cozy, as well as install the Heads-Up-Display for the pilot." Sato continued.

"Fully armored, I take it," Anderson examined.

"That's correct. The visuals will come from the all-round displays powered by cameras around the cockpit working in conjunction with the head sensors. We also have sensors for interiors to check for any damages and such."

"But the armor platings and parts will ensure protection. So I'm assuming that this is for on case if the walker's breached." Anderson concluded.

"Of course, but this is no ordinary armor, and I don't mean the titanium-vibranium alloy," Sato grinned.

"Really?" Anderson asked with a raised eyebrow. "What could it be?"

"Well, that's a bit of a surprise, given that it's the most complex part of the armor system," Ray said, "trust me though, you'll like it when we implement it."

"Alright then, I'll take your word for it." Anderson acknowledged.

Ray then asked. "Anderson-taicho? So how is the war going over in Japan?"

"Well, we managed to clear out Hydra's presence as much as we could." Anderson answered. "But... I doubt we've scratched the surface."

"Yeah, there's no telling what plans Hydra has for us." Sato shook his head.

"You must be worried about some family over there," Anderson guessed.

"I do." Sato admitted. "My nephew was playing that ALO game back in January. And he was hospitalized for phantom pain."

Anderson did a double take. "Really? That must have been scary for you." He could only imagine the horror of many parents over in Japan when the ALO players woke up screaming from having their characters shot, burned, and blown up.

"It was..." Sato continued. "My sister and her husband were frantic; they had to go into counseling afterwards."

"But everything's all fine now, right?" Anderson asked.

"Yeah, though they did tell my nephew to stop playing," Sato revealed, "they are still spooked about the whole thing."

Sato remained silent for a few moments. "I told him to give it a few months before asking his parents again. He was pretty disappointed and shaken up."

"As long as he's had a full recovery, that is." Anderson added.

"I think my sister is more inclined to try and ban all his gaming... but we know how it is with all these online friend groups," Sato said. "It's the only way for him to connect with his friends."

"I think you gave him wise advice," Anderson simply finished, "I'd understand your sister being distraught. I just hope all of this would blow over and things would go back to normal for your sister and her family."

"Thanks, Anderson-taicho." Sato smiled.

"Don't mention it," Anderson said, "now let's get to work..."

"Agreed." The two officers continued reviewing the blueprints.

Back in Japan:

Alex just let his face slam against his desk, and he was hardly alone as the rest of his class continued to reel from the introduction Burke gave to his PT regime.

"Uuuugghh..." Alex groaned. "That was brutal..."

Meanwhile Kazuto and Asuna just looked around. "Wow, everyone is wiped out," Asuna muttered to herself. Burke really did a number on a lot of students.

Suguha came in and sat down next to Alex, she was feeling energized after Gym. "That was great!"

Everyone turned their heads towards Suguha. Most of them are in disbelief from Suguha's words.

"Great!?" Nijika called out, "that Captain almost killed me!"

"And me!" Rika added. She buried her face in her arms. "What the heck, Burke!?"

"Tell me about it, Rika." Scott groaned in agreement. "And I've never been so insulted like that..."

"Not to mention the voice intimidation." Keiko added. "He was so mean!'

"You're telling me..." Tim agreed. "I didn't think he'd activate us like that."

It was then Randy who spoke up. "I know how you all feel," he groaned, "but since we're gonna be facing off against Hydra and such. We need to be in the best shape we can... Gotta accept the pain..."

"But why!?" Keiko whined. "Haven't we been put through enough pain!?"

"Face it, Keiko... we are all out of shape..." Momiji ate her humble pie.

"Same here," Kenji joined in, "all of us are out of shape. We managed to make some progress of recovery after SAO. But it wasn't enough..."

"I think that was a wake up call from the Captain," Kazuto jested.

"I think so too..." Asuna added, while feeling sympathetic for her friends. "But I think we'll all come to appreciate it," Asuna smiled.

Suguha rubs Alex's shoulders in reassurance. "Asuna-nesan's right, Alex. Besides, I can get used to the idea of a more fit you."

Alex turned his gaze towards Sugu. "R-Really?"

"Hey... you know how much a girl likes a strong man," Sugu reminded gently. "After all, I see you as my Spriggan Knight in shining armor. And it will make a good impression for my dad."

Alex smiled a bit, her dad was starting to warm up to him. But, he's got a long way to prove himself to him.

Shinichi watched the interaction silently. He should be jealous of Alex... And yet, his kept thinking about Wendy. Randy's sister and Alex's cousin.

"Why do I feel this way about someone whom I just met?" He asked himself softly. There was something familiar about her. He had a strange feeling that he had seen her somewhere.

"Was she from ALO?" He murmured. Shinichi thought back when he first started playing Alfheim Online on opening day.

Meanwhile Kazuto and Asuna were just eyeing each other.

"I guess we're the only ones who managed Burke-taicho's PT regime." Asuna whispered. "He doesn't play around."

"No, he sure doesn't." Kazuto agreed. "I suppose that is why his men and his leaders entrust him with so much."

"Including Anderson-taicho." Asuna added. "They both are very dedicated and gifted officers in their respective fields."

"If only they didn't bicker with each other." Kazuto reminded. "They are on the same team."

"Plus, Anderson-taicho also helped us stop Hydra." Asuna agreed. It was then that the science teacher walked in.

Kazuto saw this and smiled to Asuna. "Talk later."

Asuna smiled back as she took her seat.

Kotone wearily sat up, when her phone buzzed with a notification. She quickly checks it to see who it was.

It was a message reading:

'Dex here. Just got my liberty for the evening. You up for dinner out?'

Kotone smiled before texting back. 'Sure. We could meet up at the Dicey Café.'

She felt giddy inside as the class began... finally she could meet Damion outside the trappings of his mission and duties. She quickly silenced her phone and took out her tablet.

Captain Burke:

Meanwhile, Captain Burke was in his allocated school office. He still had to write up his mission reports, not to mention remain on call if he and 7-1 needed to be mobilized again for support or offensive action.

Lieutenant Preston himself was also present, looking out the window. The city of Tokyo continued to thrive after the threat of Hydra was reduced. However, Chris was not fooled. Everyone was afraid, and Hydra continued to operate with virtual impunity in the most rural parts of Japan, ambushing American forces. Therefore, the Howlers continue to monitor the nation and keep a sharp lookout for any Hydra remnants. The JSDF meanwhile would maintain order and security of the cities, while their internal investigators under Kikuoka rooted out infiltrators in the ranks.

They managed to make some progress, but it was far from over.

"Beautiful country, ain't it Cap?" Preston marveled at the sunny sight of the school grounds and city in spring bloom.

"Careful lieutenant," Chris said, "many beautiful gardens tend to conceal nasty vipers."

"That's true." Preston agreed. Still, he felt that sometimes Burke could be a little too jaded.

Chris continued to type away.

"Those two Kirigayas... Kazuto and Asuna," Chris remarked, "they really held their own."

"They sure have, Cap." Preston smirked. "In both battle and marriage. They both took your introduction in PT rather well."

"Then they are not being worked hard enough," Chris retorted.

"Not like the others, sir?" Preston asked.

Chris exhaled as he then read through Kazuto's profile. "A man... or woman, can only know their true strengths when they are stretched near the breaking point."

"Like how we were during our times in boot camp." Preston concluded.

"Precisely... death games aside, they have much to be tested on in real world life," Chris said as he looked into Kazuto's background. He reads that he was adopted after his biological parents were killed in an accident when he was an infant. Born as Kazuto Narusaka, son of Yukito and Aoi Narusaka, and relatives of the Kirigayas. Kazuto had since grown up as the adopted child of his maternal aunt and uncle. He took interest in computers around the age of nine and ten. During that time, he went on to join a number of science and computer clubs. He also took interest in video games, mainly those with FullDive VR technology. Yet he also showed promise and capability in cybersecurity and hacking.

Then, he came across his report in SAO, which wasn't not surprising as he knew about it beforehand. Kazuto was a known loner, but had formed connections with Asuna, especially right up to being formally inducted into the Knights of the Blood guild.

He then looked into Asuna's background.

"After all, those two have awakened to a world that is now on the brink with this new Hydra reborn." Chris muttered.

Asuna was an interesting case of being an unlikely candidate. She came from the rich family, her father, Shouzou Yuuki, being the CEO of RECT while her mother, Kyouko Yuuki, a professor of the Tokyo University.

Well... Until recently...

It was not too long after the daughter's wedding that Kyouko was put on unpaid leave due to fears of reputational liability. Even Shouzou himself was not immune as some of his business partners and political friends had distanced themselves, if not outright denounced the Yuukis as being Hydra patsies.

It was only because of Asuna's heroism and her brother's own savvy that the family still survived as a name, albeit a bruised one. Not to mention Anderson Tech Industries becoming the only business partner that managed to keep RECT afloat. With Asuna, she was the public face of both SAO and ALO survivors, making her a well-known face in Japanese and world media. Even after displaying her metahuman powers alongside with Kazuto fighting against Hydra. Combined with her popularity and high intelligence, Asuna was everything Kazuto could ask for in a life partner.

"So..." Preston continued. "Any obstacles you have in mind for the young couple? Perhaps we could have obstacle courses installed for the students with your PT training." Preston suggested.

"You know how expensive that kind of equipment is?" Chris posed the question.

"That is true," Preston shrugged, "however, it doesn't have to be an actual obstacle course. We have the augmented hologram projectors set up, don't we?"

However, that got Chris to quickly change his mind. "Not on your life. It is real or not at all. I will request it to administration after a cost analysis."

Preston smirked. "Should I notify Anderson to make adjustments to the PT course?"

"Not until I have submitted a cost assessment," Chris said.

"I'm sure Anderson wouldn't have a problem with the price." Preston stated. "After all, he helped built this school."

"And half of it is still built with taxpayer dollars and yen," Chris reminded, making mention of both sides' currencies. "We are still held accountable on the dime."

"Alright then." Preston said. Chris then got an incoming call on his desktop. He checked his government secured chat notification to see that it was from the Defense Intelligence Agency, DIA. Chris narrowed his eyes. Another chat notification popped up to say, 'FOR CALLER EYES ONLY.'

"Preston, leave the room for a bit while I take this call." Chris ordered. "Confidential call for me only."

"Gotcha, sir." Preston acknowledged before leaving the room. Chris accepted the call.

"This is Captain Burke." Chris said.

"Hello Captain," Chief of the DIA Maggie Daniels addressed him.

Chris narrowed his eyes. "We haven't spoken or worked with each other in two years. Why the pleasure?"

"Simple, to cut through the pleasantries, Captain," the woman general said with a tone of condescension.

"I agree that honesty is the best policy too, General Daniels," Chris said with no small hint of disdain for the general.

"I have been briefed on your adventures in Japan, and it is of interest to me that you and your unit have had encounters with Akihiko Kayaba."

"He is dead," Chris simply said. "Why are you asking me about him?"

"Don't give me that, Burke... I'm sure you know why I'm asking you about him. Your unit encountered him in the middle of the ALO Incident as you admitted in your report."

"I did," Chris said, "and I requested that Anderson and his men assist us in intelligence gathering, and nothing at this point is conclusive, other than that Kazuto Kirigaya encountered him as Kirito, and that police discovered his dead body."

"And of Kayaba's appearance in ALO?" Maggie asked. "You did interrogate the Kirigaya boy, did you not?"

"I have..." Chris answered.

The female general then intoned, "then you and I have reason to believe, that somehow, he did not die with his body..."

"No, he hasn't." Chris kept an even face, determined not to show any visible weakness to this powerful intelligence chief.

Maggie then continued. "Also, Sergeant Ramirez reported seeing Kayaba and tried to apprehend him, but was hindered after his weapon was disabled. Correct?"

"Of course," Chris remarked, "somehow Kayaba was able to cause his avatar's weapon to not function. As well as create an invisible barrier to keep Ramirez from charging at him." Chris added.

General Daniels then said. "Then the man has become a program... or whatever was left of his mind." She then followed up, "and I do recall that your sergeant mentioned something that Kayaba gave this Kirito..."

"That is correct." Chris nodded. "something called 'the World Seed' or something." He could already guess where the conversation was going...

It was then General Daniels spoke. "And what became of this 'World Seed'?"

Chris answered. "He handed me the World Seed after I asked him about it."

(FLASHBACK)

Camp Zama, February 3rd:

"Kazuto Kirigaya," Chris prefaced as he and Preston held the boy in his office, "it's been delayed long enough, and I would be remiss to put it off any further."

"Meaning, Burke-taicho?" Kazuto asked, unsure how to proceed.

"A rather interesting encounter with on Akihiko Kayaba," Chris shot straight.

"Oh..." Kazuto said in realization. "You mean my encounter with Kayaba in ALO."

"Sergeant Ramirez reported the encounter to me," Chris said, "I forwarded it to the Colonel... and now our military intelligence, the DIA, gave me instructions to question you."

Chris then nodded to Preston, who was holding a tablet to record details. He then began. "So what is your relationship with Kayaba?"

"Nothing really, other than I read his research about FullDive technology in VR, as well as the creator of SAO." Kazuto answered without hesitation.

"I see..." Chris looked down at Kayaba's file forwarded by the DIA, which had him marked as a criminal and terrorist, "I will give you fair warning, Kazuto. Akihiko Kayaba has been marked as a terrorist by the Japanese government, and as a military ally operating in your country, I have to honor that. Any omission or falsehood you state can be a strike against you."

"I just wanted to tell you that because I want to keep you out of trouble."

"I understand." Kazuto acknowledged.

This was just confirmation to him that American intelligence was now really keeping an eye on him. Being the subject of interest of two national governments was now heavy on his mind.

"On that note," Chris continued, "intelligence from the Japanese SAO Task Force and our Defense Intelligence indicates that Akihiko Kayaba held an unusually personal interest in you and by extension, your girlfriend. Furthermore, you interacted with him when he was going by the tagname, Heathcliff, then leader of the guild known as the Knights of the Blood, of which you and Asuna Yuuki were members of." Chris looked back up to Kazuto. "That is some rather heavy involvement if you ask me."

Kazuto had to stop himself from gasping. He had heard of the DIA, the military counterpart to the more notorious CIA, now replaced with the agency, AEGIS (American Especial Gathering Intelligence Service). Both services were known for their extensive networking and intel-gathering, but it could be argued that with their military-dedicated roles and smaller public profile, the DIA was even more potent than AEGIS. He and Asuna were playing with the American big boys now.

"I see..." Kazuto answered," what is it you want me to do?"

"I want you to detail everything you know about Akihiko Kayaba and his current status based on your encounters... as well as the item my sergeant witnessed you receiving inside ALO." Chris was both open ended with the requirements and serious in the tone he expressed. Preston just gave a reassuring smile that said, 'no pressure' to Kazuto.

The Kirigaya teen paused for a moment, as if he was thinking about his encounter in the Void.

"Well?" Chris continued.

Kazuto took a deep breath, then sighed. "Okay..." He then gives the details of his encounters with Kayaba in both SAO and ALO.

"So why did he go through the trouble of impersonating an SAO player, knowing that he could be discovered and defeated?" Chris asked midway into the whole account.

"I'm not really sure, to be honest." Kazuto answered. "I was wondering about that myself."

"Are you sure?" Chris pressed while trying to sound conversational. "I would find it hard to believe that he would be so vague," he said as he read through Kayaba's psychological profile, "according to his psychologist from his high school and college days..."

Kazuto remained silent as Chris continued.

"He was reclusive, yet a brilliant and curious man," Chris was paraphrasing, "he showed unparalleled interest and skill in computer programming and operations, so much so that it could almost be classified as a compulsive obsession on his part. The report even goes on to say that if anything, he showed an affection for computers and theories of possibilities of virtual worlds that substituted normal affections and concerns for human interaction."

"All of which he used that knowledge to make FullDive via virtual reality gaming possible."

His eyes then narrowed. "Yet there was one exception to this antisocial personality... which was his girlfriend," the was a visible creasing of the paper where Chris tightened his grip, "and hostage, Rinko Koujiro."

"An employer of this company called Rath. She and Kayaba were close from the beginning."

"What are you getting at, Captain?" Kazuto dared to ask.

"Well Kazuto, most of us believe that there's more to it that you're letting on." Chris replied bluntly.

"So what did, Kayaba say or admit?"

So Kazuto told him what Kayaba said after SAO was cleared. Chris had to stop himself from name-calling Kayaba. "Figures that he would do this for his own sick amusement and curiosity."

Kazuto noticed this and he added. "However, during the whole ALO incident, he appeared before me while everyone's was in the Void." He hesitated for a moment.

"So he did?" Chris asked, "what was he doing there in the first place?"

"He told me to fight through the system..." Kazuto answered. "Like I did back in SAO..."

Now this was a curveball for both Americans. Chris the mentioned, "but he was trying to kill you, was he not?"

"He did," Kazuto admitted, "but in that moment, he said it was to show our strength. And he encouraged me to rise up against the system Nobuyuki had placed."

Chris looked to Preston as he took notes, then back to Kazuto. "So, he went from trying to kill you to helping you defeat Nobuyuki?" Chris asked. He had to keep his disbelief under his professional demeanor.

Kazuto nodded. "He did."

"And the item he gave you? What is it supposed to be?" Chris gave a slight smile, though Kazuto could tell there was no escaping his level of scrutiny.

Kazuto hesitated for a moment, unsure if he should tell him.

Chris sighed. "Look, I cannot know everything about your dynamics with Kayaba and why he is so contradictory," he said, "but you know that the DIA is going to look over everything you say closely after this. You already are a huge subject of interest to the Pentagon, so help me so I can try and help you."

Kazuto thought about what Chris has said, he sighed. "The item Kayaba gave me was called the World Seed."

Chris then reached behind and clicked on a remote. "You may use my holo-projector. Show me."

Kazuto reached for the controls of the holo-projector and plays the moment where Kayaba showed up. It was from Kirito's perspective as Kayaba gifted him the glowing World Seed. A small glowing orb that grew into a size of an egg in Kirito's hands.

"That the World Seed," Chris asked as he looked up at the projection.

"It is..." Kazuto nodded. Then Kayaba spoke, giving Kirito options to either keep it or turn it over to the authorities. Kirito stared at the glowing egg as Kayaba continued if Kirito wished to make a perfect world, far from Hydra's twisted version of it. Chris scrutinized Kayaba's words... he just found this man to be a whole enigma of his own.

'After everything he's done...' Still, in Chris' mind, it did not excuse the fact that Kayaba caused the deaths of thousands, and there still needed to be a reckoning and justice.

Afterwards, Kayaba begins to leave. The recording ended. Chris then looked to Kazuto again. "And you just accepted it like that?"

"Yes, I did..." Kazuto nodded. Kazuto felt the atmosphere take on a brief awkward silence.

"And are you planning to keep the World Seed?" Chris asked, breaking the silence. "Are you also even sure that such a thing can be trusted to not be some Trojan Horse?"

"I've scanned it, and didn't find anything suspicious."

Chris sighed. "Kazuto, you know that the DIA will not accept that explanation. And they're more likely want you to hand over the evidence." He added. "I do not want to see the DIA or the OSS hound you with Kayaba being pursued."

Kazuto nodded. "What do you want me to do, Burke-taicho?"

Chris closed his eyes and hummed to himself. Kazuto waited patiently for a response. Suddenly, Chris' computer rang. Preston went to check on it...

"Captain, it's Director Fury from Delta Intel Services."

Chris seemed a little taken aback at being interrupted by a call from Fury. "Can this wait?"

"I don't think it can wait. It seems important." Preston answered.

As though to emphasize Preston's words, the call was marked 'URGENT'. "Looks like he's marked his call as urgent, sir," Preston reported.

Chris gave Kazuto a slight smile, before getting up and going back to his computer. He accepted the call. "Burke here."

Fury answered. "Hello, Captain. I can see that you have things under control."

"I have Kazuto Kirigaya and Asuna Yuuki here at our base while contingency operations are underway, if that is what you are asking," Chris answered.

"Correct." Fury said. "However, I have also been informed of your special instructions from the DIA and OSS."

"Of course," Chris affirmed, "question the subject and secure any evidence for Akihiko Kayaba's capture."

"I see. Anything you have learned?"

"Akihiko Kayaba gifted a program that he calls the World Seed to Mr. Kazuto here," Chris said, "as you would guess, I am compelled to secure that and hand it over to them."

"I'd figured that." Fury responded. "And also, have you inspected this 'World Seed' yourself?"

Chris replied, "I was about to ask Mister Kazuto for it, Fury."

"Nothing suspicious about it or anything?"

Chris then waved Kazuto over. "Plug your phone in."

Kazuto came over and plugged his phone into the laptop. "Hello, Fury-sama," Kazuto greeted with a bow.

"Kazuto." Fury greeted with a bow as well.

"We're uploading the Seed now," Kazuto said. Chris hit the commands on his computer to scan and send. Fury observes the laptop screen on his end as it uploads.

"Hmmmm... Interesting..." Fury commented. "So it is a complete VR program package... And I'm not finding any Trojan Horse malwares or anything."

"Wait..." Fury looked at the World Seed further, "oh darn."

"What is it?" Chris asked.

"This is more than just some complete VR creation package," Fury said.

"Such as?"

"Captain America," Fury asked, "have you heard of the Tesseract... or the Space Stone?"

"I think so..." Chris replied.

Kazuto, on the other hand, pondered of the name. 'Space Stone?' he thought.

"My predecessor mentioned something like that to me shortly after my inauguration," Chris said. "he said that Loki used to to try to open the gateway for the Chitauri to invade Earth."

Kazuto was shocked. "What?"

"It's true." Fury nodded.

"What does that have to do with the World Seed, though," Kazuto asked. For all he knew, the Tesseract could be miles away from Earth. Surely, no one would be able to get their hands on such technology.

Fury then revealed, "this World Seed, however Kayaba was able to create it, not only has the power to build new VR games..."

Kazuto waited, curious of what Fury has to say.

"...but it could power or give certain devices power to transcribe object data into real world materials."

Kazuto asked. "So, you think it's possible to transfer anything from the digital world into the real world?"

"Well... It is possible." Fury answered. "But, we'll have to research this to see what else this 'World Seed' has in store."

"Which means Kazuto has to surrender the Seed," Chris stated.

"Precisely." Fury nodded. Kazuto looked disappointed.

"I'm sorry you had to hear this, Kazuto." Fury reasoned, "but you must understand the situation here. It could pose a security risk of not checked thoroughly."

"And Kayaba is a wanted terrorist," Chris added. "Therefore Kazuto, you have no choice but to hand over the Seed to the authorities."

Fury then chuckled and held up a hand. "Slow your Texan horses there, Captain."

Kazuto blinked in surprise, while Chris frowned. "What do you mean, Fury? You know the DIA will not accept-"

"Leave General Daniels to me, Burke," Fury assured, "she will get everything she requested from this meeting..."

Chris remained silent for a moment.

"... but I can see potential for the World Seed both in and outside the military."

"Are you sure you want to do that, Fury?" Chris asked. "That kind of power-"

"Would be misused if in the wrong hands. But it could help us if the right people supervised the progress. And I know where and whom to start with."

Fury glanced towards Kazuto. "Are you up of overseeing the World Seed progress, Kazuto?"

The boy was floored. Being tasked to watch the World Seed grow in the digital world by Director Nick Fury? It was too good to be true for the Kirigaya boy.

"Fury, that's the power of the Tesseract that we are talking here," Chris reminded.

"I am aware of the Tesseract and what it's capable of..." Fury countered. Then he asked Kazuto. "You think you're up to it?"

Kazuto then nodded. "Yes, I'll make sure whatever happens with the World Seed, it be for good.."

Chris however, remained skeptical. There was no point of trying to persuade his superiors, no matter how dangerous the World Seed could be. "Just be ready for the possibility that it may become a weapon, for good and bad, young buddy."

"Will do, Burke-taicho." Kazuto smiled. "If Hydra or anybody wants the World Seed... They'll have to go through us." He added with determination.

Fury nodded. "I like your spunk. You reminded me of Rogers, Anderson and Burke here.. They never gave up, even when the odds were against them, they kept on fighting until victory was achieved. I think you would make for a great Japanese Avenger."

Kazuto felt flustered from the compliment he received.

"Well, let's do our best to keep this Avenger above water with our government and the top brass," Chris replied to Fury. The last thing they needed is for Kazuto to get into further trouble with the US government.

(FLASHBACK ENDS)

Back to the present:

"So you let Fury make a copy of this software and let the Kirigaya boy keep the Seed?" Daniels pressed Chris on what happened.

"We believed that it could hold the key in defeating Hydra, ma'am." Chris defended. "And Kazuto Kirigaya was willing to cooperate."

"I see..." Daniels pondered.

Chris thought that Daniels was satisfied... but he would be wrong.

"And you're certain that no incidents would occur involving the World Seed?" Daniels asked.

"You want the hard answer or the reassuring one, ma'am?" Chris asked.

"Whatever you think it's the best." Daniels replied. She then glowered, "however, I don't think you appreciate the mistake you made, Captain."

"Ma'am," Chris addressed, steeling himself.

Daniels paused for a moment before she continued. "You let Fury interfere with my instructions to confiscate... I repeat, confiscate any material you found on him."

"I'm sorry ma'am," Chris remained even, "but based on the orders I received, I was under the impression that we wanted Kirigaya's cooperation, not to treat him as a prisoner."

"And you left the original copy of an artifact potentially as powerful as the Tesseract in the hands of a boy," Daniel accused, "tell me why I should not reprimand you for this."

"Because I have confidence in the young Kirigaya," Chris defended, "he has proved himself time and time again during the ALO mission and the Yokota Air Base attack."

"And if Director Fury approved, it's likely that the White House is of a similar opinion." The young Captain America II cleverly made reference to Fury's position in the White House. General Daniels stared down Burke on the screen.

"Fury is but one intelligence advisor to the president, Captain Burke," Daniels retorted.

Chris remained silent as Daniels continued. "No matter how high ranking he is, he is not the president, nor does he embody the objectives and official stances of the Department of Defense. Same goes for Anderson, he may be the hero of the Civil War, as well as the lead of rebuilding America after the war. He doesn't call the shots either."

Chris held firm. It was no secret that the DIA chief was no fan of Fury or anyone outside or too eccentric for her chain of command. The same went with Anderson. "General Daniels," Burke calmly pushed back, "if we are to consider Kazuto Kirigaya an asset, the last thing we should to is to antagonize him or his family. We're still on full alert of Hydra and he, along with his family and friends, are considered important personal."

"I am well aware of that," Daniels shot back, "but who said that you could set Army intelligence priorities?"

There was an uncomfortable silence. Daniels took a deep breath before she continued. "Captain, I will ask that you consult me before you go about implementing any changes in plans." She gave a narrow gaze, "and if Fury interferes again with DIA operations and initiatives... he will indeed hear from me."

"I think that would be the best course of action," Chris verbally concurred. If so, Fury would have to watch his back from now on. Not that he hadn't done this before.

"Captain Burke... you will not fail with Akihiko Kayaba for the second time, will you?"

"I will not, ma'am." Of course she had to go there...

"Remember this Burke... no amount of your family name is going to protect you from accountability," Daniel reminded, "we need not another intelligence debacle like with you under my predecessor. Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes, ma'am."

"Good, now that's gotten out of the way and there's nothing else for you to report. Good day to you, Captain America."

"Good day to you too, General Daniels." Chris saluted before the video feed ended. As Daniels ended the call, Chris could not be more relieved. He really did not like that general. Even Anderson warned Chris about his own run-ins with her in the past. Maggie Daniels was a woman of great intellect, but had a cold and calculative personality that came with her position in the DIA.

She was in charge of keeping Washington DC in order after the coup and reorganizing the new agencies after the old ones were purged. She was highly ambitious, and dangerous.

"Arrogant woman," Chris allowed himself a mutter as he returned to his prior work.

Dicey Café:

Damion Burton reserved a seat for himself. He looked at the time, reading around 4.

'School should be over by now.' He thought.

Andrew Mills from the back when he saw Damion in his Multicam ACU. Andrew thought he recognized him back in ALO a few months back. "Well hi there, soldier," Andrew greeted with a beaming grin.

Damion recognized Andrew immediately. "Hi... Agil, is it?" he asked.

Andrew was a bit surprised to be called by that tag. He smiled and says. "Correct, but it's Andrew here."

He saw that the soldier's nametag read as 'Burton', and he had Ranger tabs with the Howler Platoon's wolf emblem on his left shoulder patch.

"I'm assuming that you're here for someone, Burton?" Andrew asked.

"Please, call me Damion," the young Arizonan said, "and yes, I am."

"Nice to meet you, Damion." Andrew nodded. "I can see you're from Howler Platoon." Andrew pointed at the unit patch, "I recognize the emblem."

"Right." Damion smiled.

"Rather young for that unit though," Andrew remarked.

"I graduated Ranger school right into the platoon," Damion said as he rubbed his patch, "I'm still amazed that I was one of the few who made it."

"From what I've heard, many students joined the military after high school after the war." Andrew said. But to make it into such a unit... That's very rare to see."

"You hit that one on the head," Damion told Andrew, "even among 75th Ranger Regiment veterans, 7th Platoon has a high attrition rate for recruits."

"That's something to be proud of.." Andrew replied. "I bet your folks are proud as well..."

"Well," Damion made a bit of an exasperated face. "The thing is... My folks don't know about it... At least... not until I graduated."

"How did they take the news?"

Damion said, "sisters were understanding... My parents..." He paused for a moment. "... They didn't take it well..."

"One of those prodigal son cases?" Andrew asked as he cleaned a cup.

"Yeah..." Damion sighed. "My mom cried, and dad won't speak to me."

"I'm sorry to hear that." Andrew said with sympathy.

"Well, it was either that, or we are stuck with my dad's income, which is pennies compared to the inflation back in Arizona."

"Yeah, been hearing everyone's struggling to rebuild their lives." Andrew had heard of the hyperinflation in the Southwest, as well as the reconstructions of many homes that were lost. The region was still very much an open wound in America. This also including rebuilding of cities that were destroyed by nuclear strikes during the final months of the war.

Meanwhile, Kazuto and Asuna and company were walking the streets of Tokyo towards the café. The married couple and Suguha had to walk slowly for Alex and their friends, who are still recovering from Captain Burke's PT regime.

"Muscles still twitching?" Kazuto asked his best friend.

"Yeah, but not as much." Alex groaned. "I think I appreciate the Hell Week Jon had to endure in the Navy a bit more, though."

Kazuto chuckled. "I'm sure that all of you will be bulking in no time."

"Easy with your superhuman strength," Alex retorted in jest. "You three managed to ace through that with no problem."

"Because I keep in shape," Suguha felt happy for herself. She then hugged Alex. "And soon, you'll be in shape like me." She pecked Alex's cheek. Alex smiled, not caring about the adults giving stares at the PDA.

"Thanks, Sugu."

"Sheesh, she really is like Kazuto," Rika rolled her eyes tiredly.

Scott pondered at Sugu before asking Rika. "I wonder if she has the same powers as Kazuto does? I mean, they are brother and sister, right?"

"I believe they're cousins." Rika said. "So less likely they would share powers, if she even has any."

"Maybe..." Scott agreed. "Maybe she may have something else..."

Rika glanced towards Suguha, then back to Scott. "You think she does?"

Scott shrugged. "Probably, but we'll never know for sure..."

As they reached a crossing, a couple of American Bradley IFVs passed through traffic, trailed by Humvees and trucks full of Marines in full gear.

"Now that's new," Asuna wondered.

"Never seen gear like that," Suguha added.

Alex looked up, wondering what Suguha meant. He looked in the back of the trucks... seeing the Marines decked out in armored helmets and riot shields.

"That's new..." Alex commented.

Tim looked on his phone and Keiko leaned over. "Hey guys, there's a large protest over at the American embassy."

"Another one?" Randy groaned.

"Rural Japanese coming to protest America's military operations on their lands," Tim read off.

Randy shook his head in disbelief.

Keiko seemed more understanding. "Many of them have lived in peace for many generations on those lands..."

"Especially during wartimes..." She added. "For them to see gunfights and American soldiers taking ground on their lands would be a very upsetting thing."

"We're still trying to figure out how many Hydra cells are still in Japan." Tim said. "Still... It reminds me too much of the unrest before the civil war..."

Kazuto and Asuna saw other people giving the Marines stares, who just ignored them as the trucks rolled past. Asuna sighed sadly. "Is this what military occupation is like?"

"I'm afraid so..." Kazuto replied. He looked up and saw some slight silhouettes on one of the buildings. His eyes narrowed as his newly awakened powers gave him enhanced vision to see three American special operators. Two had sniper rifles pointing out over the roof, while the third was constantly scanning with his binoculars. The angle of one of the snipers' scopes told Kazuto that he was looking at him and Asuna.

"At least we have protection..." Kazuto muttered.

"Huh?" Asuna glanced towards her husband when the foot traffic suddenly flowed again.

"I'll explain when we get to the café." Kazuto replied before moving with the crowd. Asuna just held Kazuto's hand as they walked. As they continued on, Kotone thought about Damion. It was the first time that they would meet off-duty. She had many questions, one included his newfound strength a few months back. And she wanted to see Damion outside the armor he usually wore.

'I can hardly wait...' She though happily.

Dicey Café:

"One beer please," Jenson laughed as he plopped down next to Damion.

"Aren't you young for a beer?" Andrew asked. He had a rather keen eye for telling the age of the customer. "And if you're older, can I see your identification?"

Damion looked to his friend with a look telling him not to play Andrew.

"Umm... On second thought, I'll take a lemonade." Jenson said.

"I thought so," Andrew smirked.

"I'll have the same." Damion said. "With ice."

Andrew written down the order. "Anything else?"

"Do you serve any fish and chips?" Damion asked.

"We do," Andrew replied.

"We'll take two."

"Alright, two fish and chips." Andrew wrote down the orders.

"Thank you, Andrew." Damion expressed.

As Andrew leaves, Jenson looked around the café. "This is a nice place... Reminds me of this tavern I know back in Wisconsin."

"Was it that nostalgia tavern? The 80's tavern?" Damion asked. He wasn't out of the base much in Wisconsin during the Platoon's winter training.

"Yep, a tavern paying homage to the 1980s." Jenson answered. "This really reminds me of home. It even has the map of the US." He gestures towards the map of America on the wall located on the far side of the diner. Damion looked wistfully at the map. Then suddenly, he remembered something. "Oh snap." He pulled out his wallet to check his money. He made sure that he had yen on him after being stationed in Japan.

"You okay there, buddy?" Jenson looked over.

Damion then sat a bit dejected. "I have enough, but I left some and sent the rest of my salary home."

"Hey, you're being paid well," Jenson grinned, "what could be the problem now?"

"Y'know, if you need some help paying for the meal, I can chip in." He offered.

"It's not that," Damion sighed, "I was hoping to have enough to treat Kotone for her dinner." He shook his head. "So much for good first impressions."

"Ahh, I see." Jenson realized. "Gonna be a gentlemen for your lady."

"Agh... I forgot to keep more money to reserve for today, and sent it home," Damion sighed.

"Are you sure you don't need my help?" Jenson asked.

Damion gave a sad smile. "I couldn't ask for the money that you want for souvenirs to send back home.

Jenson smirked. "Eh... what the heck." He took out his wallet and fished some yen out. "What are you gonna do without me, Damion."

At first, Damion was reluctant of taking Jenson's offer. Then, after a few seconds, he sighed and took the money. "Thanks Jenson."

"Don't mention it, we gotta look out for each other. And I'm helping you save face with a girl!" Jenson grinned as he nudged Damion's shoulder. "Cool stuff."

A few minutes later, Andrew came back with the two plates of fish and chips along with their lemonade drinks. "Here you young soldiers go."

"Thank you, Andrew." Damion said.

"Anything for a fellow American," Andrew reciprocated.

Jenson takes a sip from the lemonade. "Very good..."

It was then that the door rang to a cacophony of voices. Damion glanced towards the door to see a group of teenagers in their dark blue school uniforms coming in.

"Hey, it's them, Jenson," he told his friend. Damion noticed that most of them appear to be exhausted. "Our Cap must have done a number on them."

"No doubt about it." Jenson commented. "We're like that during our first day in boot camp."

"I don't think Kazuto, Asuna, and the other girl went through it," Damion observed the three teens, "they don't even look tired."

Kazuto and Asuna helped some of their friends through. Even Suguha was helping Alex to one of the tables.

"We're here, Alex."

"Thanks, Sugu." Alex groaned as he sat down. "How is it possible that everything that didn't ache before now aches so bad!?"

From the other table, both Damion and Jenson snickered. "Hey, you know, the more you complain, the more it will hurt, buddy," Jenson teased.

Alex looked towards the table next to theirs. He recognized the patches on the left shoulders.

'Howler platoon.' Alex thought.

"It sounded like you yahoos needed it anyways," Jenson added.

Rika and Scott gave him glares.

Damion stood up and met Kotone.

And as he got closer, she recognize him.

"Dex?" Kotone asked.

"Philia..." Damion smiled. "Good to see you."

"It's good to see you too." Kotone blushed. She noticed how refined and bright Damion was out of his armor and helmet. Not to mention how toned he looked, despite being young. This also included the fact that he was roughly the same height as Alex was. His green eyes and blonde hair blazed in contrast against the uniform.

"Mind if I sit with you?" Kotone asked.

"I've been waiting for you," Damion confirmed as he pulled a chair for her. Kotone thanked him as she sat down, Damion followed suit. As Damion sat, Jenson nudged him and gave a supportive wink.

"So..." Damion began, "how was your school?"

Kotone smiled. "It was good, that was until gym class.." She sighed.

"I know," Damion told her, "it was my Captain, wasn't it?"

Kotone nodded. "He practically ran us into the ground. I never expected that he would work us so hard!"

"I know what you mean," Damion said, "I had to go through that on my first day in boot camp. I could tell you about this drill instructor who knew to hit us recruits the hardest in the ego to break us."

"Really?" Kotone asked.

Damion laughed. "Yeah. And he swore like nobody else's business... I could have thought that he was a sailor."

"Yeah," Jenson added, "what Cap gave you boys and girls is a fraction of what the actual drill sergeants would actually put you through."

Kotone thought about it for a moment before answering. "I guess..." She then looked at Jenson. "And you are?"

"Private Jenson," the soldier laughed. "I'm the friend who keeps this sorry sap here," he playfully smacked Damion on the shoulder, "out of trouble. Not that if we can help it." Jenson added.

"Hey," Damion groaned, "I'm not that bad."

"Except for that one time a few months back." Jenson reminded. "You had us all scared for you then."

"I can imagine that one," Kotone agreed, thinking about how Damion got shot in the middle of the hospital skirmish. And then, he quickly healed up after Deadpool injected a syringe into him, which sealed the bullet wound.

"Well, I'm alive and not in the ground," Damion replied, "so I think we can move on." He gave Kotone a bit of an exasperated grin. "Please excuse Jenson here. He likes to be the older brother I never asked for."

"I know what you mean." Kotone smiled. "All of my friends are like family to me. I wouldn't have it any other way. Especially after what we all went through."

"That is exactly what I would say," Damion marveled with a grin.

"Same here." Jenson added. Kotone laughed, feeling better.

'Such cute laughter.' Damion thought.

"Strange that I would find such commonality with American Rangers," Kotone laughed, "I guess in a death game or on the battlefield, it's the same."

"That it is, Kotone." Damion agreed.

Kazuto and Asuna watch Kotone getting acquainted with Damion.

"Looks like Philia just met her boyfriend and a new friend," Asuna beamed.

"And she's enjoying herself with him." Kazuto smirked. "Though I gotta say that friend of Damion seems to enjoy teasing him a little too much..."

"Like how Alex teased us back in SAO." Asuna giggled before glancing towards Alex and Suguha.

"Hey, don't compare me to that jerkoff," Alex groaned.

"Oh really?" Kazuto grinned. "Looked in the mirror lately?"

Asuna then grinned. "He's right, Alex. And now that you're dating Kazuto's sister.." She giggled.

"Hey, ease up on him," Suguha cutely defended.

"Not to worry, Suguha-nechan." Kazuto teased. "After all, since you two have been spending nights together. Hopefully, nothing else happened during those nights."

"I-" Alex was shocked, "I could never!"

"Come on, you know my sister's pretty and cute.." Kazuto teased further while grinning deviously.

"Onii-chan, my dad would kill us!" Suguha was shocked, "and we have more dignity than that!"

It was then Kazuto and Asuna busted out laughing.

"That's not funny!" Suguha protested with a blush.

"Come on, Sugu-nechan, you know we were teasing!" Kazuto continued to laugh.

"Besides," Kazuto said, "Alex is too kind-hearted to be a rough and tough Howler."

Alex, who was still flustered from the teasing, nodded. "T-That's true.."

Trish then swung by the table. "Well hi!"

"Hi, Trish." Kazuto and Asuna greeted in unison. Everyone lit up upon seeing Andrew's wife.

"Hi Trish!" Keiko called out.

"Good to see you again," Momiji smiled.

"Same here." Nijika added. "Especially after school today."

"You wouldn't believe what we just got put through today," Haruto groaned with a relieved smile.

"Thought we were gonna die from exhaustion." Tim moaned. "But we made it."

"Hmm... you know, I heard rumblings of one heck of a gym instructor from those two gentlemen over there," Trish smirked as she pointed to Privates Burton and Jenson. Most of the group glanced towards the two privates before turned back to Trish.

"Those are two of Burke's soldiers," Randy said.

"That's right, kid." Jenson replied. "We're 1st Company... the first among the best."

"We figured that all of you finished up gym with our Captain teaching." Damion chuckled. "Hope he didn't break you too bad."

"Not all of us." Suguha chimed. "I'm as fit as I can be when practicing for kendo."

"Good for you," Rika remarked sarcastically. "That Captain of yours was a real brute!"

"He called me fat," Scott added. "none of us are fat!"

"Also," Kenji spoke up, "He was making a reference of a cartoon character while he whipped us into shape."

"Oh... what might that be?" Damion wondered.

"Someone called 'Mickey Mouse'. Who's that anyway?"

That suddenly got Damion and Jenson bursting into laughter.

"What's so funny?" Momiji asked.

"Mickey Mouse, that's a good one," Jenson laughed. "No one has heard or seen that since the civil war."

"I didn't think the Captain was that funny a character," Damion agreed.

"If you mean, funny at making fun of us, then yes!" Haruto replied.

"I don't get it," Kotone asked, "what was that about?"

"Well..." Damion began. "It was an old cartoon character from America. He starred in various animated comedies with his friends."

"Interesting..." Kotone said.

"Still, never thought he had a funny bone in him," Jenson roared. "he's usually serious and more focused on the task in hand."

The other students just gave the private stares.

Kotone said. "Something else happened while we were training."

"What was it?" Damion asked.

"One of our friends, Nathan, has developed super-speed and ran 100 laps under a minute." Kotone revealed.

Damion seemed surprised. "Really?"

Kotone nodded, looking towards the boy in question. "However, your Captain was not too happy about it."

"How so?" Damion asked.

"He stated about the price for leaving soldiers behind during a fire fights." Kotone explained. "And he made Nathan do push-ups."

"Ah," Damion then brightened up in understanding. Of course the Captain would take that seriously.

"Hey, good that Captain Burke taught him a lesson," Jenson cheered. "I mean, I'm impressed by his newfound ability, but he mustn't let it get to his head and such. New recruits tend to get reckless during combat."

"But we aren't new to combat," Tim protested. "And we're not counting our times in SAO."

"No kidding, but that was in a VR world. We're in real life." Randy explained. "So, we managed to recover after all that."

Jenson snorted. "Looks like you got a long way of recovering your strength. And it's not like fighting for a living."

"Correct," Damion agreed, "in a long run, you'll be thanking him for it. And just be thankful that your next meal doesn't depend on you risking your behind getting shot at for a living."

Tim remained silence after that statement and just sighed.

"Well Damion," Kotone comforted, "at least you actually get to shoot back. Not to mention tackle anyone as well."

"I... thanks," Damion shyly said.

"By the way, how did you managed to tackle those two criminals?" Kotone asked.

"You saw that?" Damion wondered.

It was them that Trish came by the table. "Hello everyone, I'm Trish and I'll be serving you today." She pulled out her note pad. She then turned to face the two Rangers. "I see that you gentlemen both have been taken care of."

"Yes, but I'd like to make another order," Damion said. He turned to Kotone. "Anything you like to order?"

"Hmmmm..." Kotone pondered through the menu. "I think I'll have the Café Gourmet Pizza slices."

"Oh... that will be a long while, young Ms. Takemiya," Trish warned with a gentle smile.

"It's okay ma'am," Damion intervened, "I'll pay for it." He then offered a fork to Kotone. "I hope you don't mind sharing."

Kotone blinked in surprise of Damion's offer. Then she smiled and says. "Thank you, Damion."

"Smooth move there, Burton," Jenson gave a knowing and sly wink. Kotone giggled while Trish wrote down the order.

Suguha reads the menu to see what she and Alex wanted.

"I'm having a burger after what happened," Alex said.

"I'm probably gonna have the chicken strip basket." Suguha added.

"And sodas, please," Alex added.

"Sure thing," Trish acknowledged before turning to the rest of the gang.

"Oh, Kazuto and Asuna," Trish gushed.

The young married couple blushed.

"We'll have the deep dish pizza." Asuna said.

"Shared," Kazuto added, "and an appetizer of shrimp cocktail to treat the others."

"Alright, one deep dish pizza and a appetizer of shrimp cocktail." Trish wrote down the order. "Any drinks?"

"Japanese soda, strawberry flavor," Asuna smiled.

"Same soda, blackberry flavor." Kazuto nodded.

Trish then happily took the orders of the others. "My my," Trish marveled at the orders.

"Something to get over today, I guess." Jenson remarked with a joke. "Just one day, and you're all clamoring for relief."

"Like what we did before." Damion agreed. "Cut them some slack, Jenson. We don't always have to hit people hard."

"Have a bit of a reputation to maintain as a Howler," Jenson laughed. "It comes with the job."

"Of course..." Damion shook his head. "But they're just civilians and still in high school."

Scott and Rika just glared at Jenson. "Man, does he give us a break?" Rika groaned.

"Apparently not." Scott sighed. "As least he's not calling us fat or anything.."

"Well just don't even suggest it," Alex warned them, "soldiers have a tendency to get very creative with the bantering and sassing. I should know, Jon told me about his times in boot camp."

"You said something about sailors having mouths like sewers," Suguha remarked, "but you'd better not have that around Dad."

"No need to worry about that, Sugu." Alex chuckled weakly. "Most of us learned not to use harsh language at all.."

"Yeah, my dad hates ruffian talk too," Kazuto concurred, "and don't get started about my mom."

"Yeah, don't want her to get all fired up over profanity." Suguha reminded.

"Not a problem," Alex grinned. "I want to keep your family on their good side."

"Yeah, mother may have warmed up to you, but you got a long way with father." Kazuto chuckled.

"He's a tough one, that's for sure," Asuna added.

"So, it's been three months since you moved into the Yuuki residence, Kazuto." Suguha said. She sometimes missed him, but was now curious about Kazuto's new life. His old bedroom is now empty and their parents have kept it clean for a time being.

"How is it?"

"It's nice." Kazuto smiled. "Asuna's bedroom is a master bedroom, so it was quite easy."

"Oh ho... got it on a silver platter?" Nathan teased.

"Hope you'd enjoyed the gifts we got, Asuna." Rika giggled.

Asuna blushed softly.

"Hehe, I'll take that as a 'yes'." Rika smirked.

"Rika, not here!" Asuna hissed back. At this point, Rika was laughing.

"Don't worry, Asuna." She said between laughs.

Asuna huffed. "Well, Kazuto and I are playing it safe... and we made an agreement with my parents."

"Oooohhhh.." Rika said.

Alex playfully elbowed Kazuto. "I hope that isn't driving you nuts." He whispered with a smirk.

"Well it's not that hard," Kazuto hummed calmly, "it was basically some arrangements about the future and how we'll secure a good house and family inheritance if we can complete our high school and college by age 22 at minimum."

"True... But, I was referring in the bedroom..." Alex's smirk grew wider.

"Well..." Kazuto blushed, "Asuna and I agreed that it is best to hold off having babies until we pass college and I secure good employment."

"Even with... You know..." Alex continued.

"Yeah," Kazuto blushed.

"Speaking of that," Suguha shifted topics, "when are you getting that internship with Anderson Japan?"

"Probably after graduating from high school." Kazuto answered, the blushing subsiding. "Asuna and I have so much catch-up to do like the others from SAO.

"I'm sure that you two will be able to catch up on your grades. As long as you study hard." Alex then said, no longer teasing Kazuto.

"We're all in the same boat, Alex," Kenji reminded.

"That's true." Alex admitted. "Except for Klein and Andrew."

As if by coincidence, Klein walked in through the door. "What's up, everyone?" Klein greeted. He then noticed how disheveled some of them looked. "What's wrong? School got all of you beat?" Klein joked.

"Not school per se..." Kazuto smiled knowingly.

"Oh?" Klein was curious. "What was it then?"

"Captain Burke..." Keiko answered.

"Captain Burke? As in 'Captain America'?"

"Who do you think?" Nijika said.

"He subjected us to a military regime!" Rika complained.

"As in military training and exercise." Klein deduced. "Sounds like he put you through a wringer."

"He's practically trying to run all of us into the ground!" Momiji interjected.

"He called us fat and unfit," Kenji added.

Jenson gave them incredulous looks. Klein tried not to snicker.

"You guys really can't get over it?" Jenson asked with a chuckle while Damion just shook his head, continuing to help share his food with Kotone.

"Delicious." Kotone said while munching on one of the fries.

"Try it with the tartar sauce," Damion suggested. He moves the dipping bowl towards Kotone. "It's the tanginess that's best."

Kotone dips the fry into the bowl and takes a bite out of it. She hummed with delight from the taste. "Even better with the tartar sauce." She commented.

Klein noticed the soldiers' shoulder patches. "You Burke's guys?"

"You bet." Jenson replied with a smile.

"And you're the 'samurai falso' we heard from our sergeant," the young Wisconsin Ranger snarked.

"Falso?" Klein was taken aback.

"Yeah. You like to play samurai I hear," Jenson said with a straight grin."

"I am a samurai, both in SAO and in the real world." Klein defended.

Jenson just raised an eyebrow. "Really?"

"I thought you were just play-acting with your flamboyance," even Damion got a dig in, to Kotone's mild surprise. Both Kazuto and Asuna were surprised as well, no one they knew was able to challenge Klein's flamboyance personality before. It was then Asuna giggled as Klein started to sputter in disbelief.

"Wait, so that's what they were saying about me in Spanish!?"

"Well..." Jenson began.

Kazuto then interrupted. "Hey Klein," he greeted, "don't let these guys get under your skin. These soldiers just like to trash-talk people they meet."

"Like how Captain Burke trash-talk us." Alex called out.

"Trash-talk?" Jenson swatted his hand, "if you thought that was bad, I don't know how you guys would handle the drill sergeants."

"You think the Captain's harsh?" Damion added, "he's a gentleman compared to some of the squad level NCOs. And believe me, they can be extremely harsh on new recruits."

"I don't know," Andrew jested, "my old man would say that Army ones are pussycats compared to Marine gunnery sergeants."

"Hey, don't you diss our US Army," Jenson playfully protested with a pout. There was some laughter. Some of the SAO students shook their heads.

"Good thing there aren't Marines in here right now," Trish suppressed a giggle.

Momiji looked up. "Wait, Marines?"

"The United States Marines." Randy clarified.

Anyways, I gotta cook now!" Trish then went into the kitchen.

Suguha then asked Andrew, "you've been getting American Marines too?"

Andrew nodded. "Word to the wise, young Rangers," Andrew advised, "watch your words in territory when the Marines are around."

"We will." Damion acknowledged.

"We're Howlers, Andrew. We can handle a few jarheads," Jenson waved him off.

"Trust me," Andrew shook his head as he went to help Trish, "and I don't want to clean up after a brawl."

"I doubt we have Marines here." Jenson added.

"I think I remember Preston mentioned that he was a Marine." Randy recalled.

"He has." Alex added. "He was in the Marines before the Civil War, and before resigning back in late-2016."

Kazuto and Asuna meanwhile talked with the others.

"So... I've been hearing about the side project you and Kazuto-kun's been working on, Alex." Asuna said. "What is it?"

"Well... You remember after the whole War in Alfheim?" Kazuto asked before he pulled out his laptop. After he turns it on, he turns it around for everyone to see.

"It was called the 'World Seed'."

"The World Seed," Asuna now remembered. "Given to you by Kayaba."

Suguha had mixed feelings still about this. After all, Akihiko Kayaba was anathema to those who lost their loved ones to SAO. However, with recent events, she didn't know who's worse. Kayaba or Nobuyuki.

Kenji gave Kazuto an intent look. "I don't know, boss."

"Are you sure about this?" Nathan also asked.

"After what he had done to all of us." Haruto added.

The girls gave quite similar reactions.

"I'm not sure if that's a good idea," Momiji expressed.

"I have to agree with Momiji here," Nijika agreed. "What if it's another trap?"

Kazuto gave a reassuring smile. "Not to worry, it has been scanned and its codings doesn't show any signs of a trap."

"That is true!" Two cute voices chimed in as Yui and Strea returned to Kazuto's laptop.

"Strea and I can verify that," Yui said.

"Hi Yui, hi Strea." Asuna waved.

"Hi mommy!" The two AI girls cheered and waved.

"Back from surfing the net?" Kazuto laughed.

"We sure have, dad!" Strea chimed.

"Where did you go?" Asuna asked.

"We explored websites such as SpiritTube, LibertyArt, M, Archive. etc." Yui answered. "There was so much information on you humans and your world!"

"A lot of history of everyone and the whole world!" Strea cheered.

Nathan chuckled at Strea's cheeriness.

"Hi Nathan!" Strea beamed.

"Hey back, Strea," Nathan beamed.

"How you've been?" Strea asked happily.

"Better now that you are here," Nathan said.

Yui looked around to see the crowd and noticed most of them are exhausted. "What happened?" Yui looked concerned.

"Everyone got roughed up at the school's gym." Asuna explained.

"Captain Chris Burke was what happened," Alex told her.

"Captain America?" Strea asked curiously. "Why was he at the school?"

"He was asked to teach out at the Physical Education class." Nathan groaned. "Of course, we got more than what we bargained for."

Strea seemed incredulous on the screen. "He was... a drill instructor they call it?"

"That's correct." Nathan nodded.

"Hey, who's the cute chick you're talking to there?" Jenson teased.

Nathan's face flushed with red as he stuttered. "S-She's Strea.."

"She's very cute." Jenson commented. "Where did you find her?"

"SAO." Nathan answered. "A-And she's an AI."

Jenson looked incredulous. He then looked back at the screen. "No way, there is no freaking way a girl this cute is an AI."

"She is..." Asuna replied. "And so is our Yui."

Yui turned the Webcam towards Jenson and Damion, seeing their uniforms and patches. "You two are Howler soldiers." She chirped. "I've recognized the patches back in ALO. We even visited your website back in America."

"You have?"

Yui nodded. "It's hard to believe that the Howler Platoon is an successor to the original Howler Commandos back in World War 2."

"Yeah, eighty years is a long period of time," Strea chirped. "Your Colonel Steve Rogers was also part of the Howler Commandos from what we've read."

"Someone has done their homework," Damion remarked happily.

"You said it." Jenson agreed, he was astonished by the AI's thorough research. The two AIs giggled cheerfully.

Strea then looked up to Kazuto. "The codings within the World Seed contained new constructs for the VR world, dad."

"Dad?" Jenson was confused. "What the heck? She's around your age, Kazuto."

"She and I are only two years old," Yui answered.

Jenson looked at Damion, then back at the computer screen. Then he remembered that they're both AIs. Yui looked up to her dad. "Daddy, you are certain that you want to release the World Seed?"

"I'm certain." Kazuto smiled.

It was then Suguha asked. "How is that possible?"

Kazuto explained. "It revealed that it was a program that ran a VRMMO creation and management package. All of which is a modified basic version of the Cardinal System program. In basic terms, anyone that had access to a good enough server could download Seed and create their own virtual reality world."

"With the 50 mirror servers, 100,000 downloads, and 300 major servers running it all. Alex, Andrew and I managed to upload it to public servers for anyone to download for free. Thus, the VRMMO industry was revived by late-February. The ALO's data was transferred to another company, which was created after the ALO incident by former players of said VR game. While other companies, and even people, began to run their own server of their own game."

"Thus, beginning to be compatible with the other, achieving the goal of the same avatar being usable in different games. An afterparty is planned in Yggdrasil City. At least, that was the plan." Kazuto finishes.

Asuna smiled. Of course Kazuto would love to share that with the world.

"So, it's a copy of the old ALO game?" Suguha asked.

"Even better, Sugu," Alex grinned. "With the World Seed, anything is possible."

"And that is why the Defense Intelligence Agency is paying attention, right Dad?" Strea blithely asked.

"Strea!" Kazuto gasped. He did not tell this to Asuna or any of his other friends.

"DIA?" Asuna was confused.

"Wait, what?!" Sugu gasped.

Alex also gave Kazuto a shocked look. "Wait, you mean American military intelligence!?"

Kazuto felt sheepish at the spilled secret. "Yes..."

That caused the table to go silent. The two AIs looked around, unsure if anyone will break the silence.

"Um... what is wrong?" Strea cutely asked.

Kazuto finally answered. "Well, Strea... The DIA tends to freak people out."

"Aren't they like agents that seek out those harming innocent people?" Strea asked innocently.

"They do, Strea... But sometimes, they can get a little... rough..." Kazuto explains. "If they want something done, they are not above using pressure tactics and threats to accomplish their goals. End up on their bad side, and they can task military forces to end you."

Alex was dismayed. "When did you realize that they were on to you and Asuna!?"

"Sometime after the Hydra Attack on the Yokota base." Kazuto answered. "Captain Burke warned me about them when he questioned me under their orders."

"Really? They're that brutal?" Strea asked, suddenly concerned about Kazuto.

Nathan was very displeased. "Did you think this through!? What interest does the DIA have in the Seed!?"

Everyone looked towards Kazuto for further answers.

"Do you have any idea what you're getting yourself into?" Scott groaned, "intelligence agencies are not a friendly group of people to be noticed by."

"Even though the FBI, CIA, NSA, and the Department of Homeland Security no longer exists," Randy interjected, "but that doesn't mean the new government agencies and the DIA would take this lightly."

Asuna looked intently in towards her husband... "Kazuto-kun. I know that you want to restore the VR world. But, are you sure that we won't get in trouble in doing so?"

Suguha was now stressed out... Her brother and sister-in-law were being monitored by a world superpower. Alex noticed this and gently hugs Suguha. "How did our lives become so complicated?"

"I have no idea.." Alex soothed. "But we'll be together to face it no matter what."

Kotone looked towards Damion and Jenson. "Is this true?"

Damion pursed his lips. "Believe me, Kotone, I had no idea... but I've heard a lot about their chief, General Margaret Daniels... From what I heard, she can be stone cold when it comes for intel-gathering."

"And utterly ruthless in carrying out military interests," Jenson added with disdain, "you'd think she was a Hydra leader working for us."

Damion shook his head. "I doubt that. Otherwise, most of us would've caught on. After the whole Hydra Uprising back in 2014, everyone's now begun thorough background checks on everyone."

"I meant that metaphorically, buddy," Jenson sighed.

Damion realized what he meant and shook his head.

Asuna meanwhile pressed her husband, "Kazuto, why did you not tell me that you were questioned by the DIA?"

"I didn't wanted to worry you and your family." Kazuto replied. He was solemn as he told the truth, "you all had enough on your hands with the media and the police, and I thought that with Fury's help, you wouldn't have to worry about American intelligence."

"I understand that, Kazuto." Asuna sighed from the thought. "But safe to say that if they are onto you, they are also onto me."

"It won't come to that, Asuna." Kazuto reassured her. "For now, we can now rest and not worry about anything.. Fury is vouching for us, so I'm confident that we can go forward."

"Alright then." Asuna sighed in relief before resting her head against his shoulder.

Alex and Suguha still seemed apprehensive. Alex muttered, "the freaking Defense Intelligence Agency."

"Tell me about it." Suguha agreed. She could not help but wonder if other governments would be interested in her brother and his family. As well as Asuna and her family. She sometimes missed when Kazuto was just more or less ordinary... And now, they've been drawing a lot of attention as of late. Yet, for all the troubles the world was throwing at them, Suguha realized that she would not change it for the closeness and fellowship she gained with not only Kazuto, but also Asuna, their new friends, and most of all, one Alex Mitchell.

Suguha continued to cradle in Alex's arms, feeling the world disappear around them.

Meanwhile back at the school:

Chris Burke made it a point to read on the students in the gym classes he was helping to oversee before he left for the day. He also knew that he would eventually have to start grading them as part of his responsibilities as a part-time instructor. He also planned to make a proposal to upgrade the gym area with an military-style obstacle course.

Of course, he would have to pass it with the rest of the school staff; it was likely to attract some controversy.

"You're one heck of an instructor," Lieutenant Preston remarked as he sat in one of the lounge chairs, waiting for his commander. He jested, "you sure you're not a sergeant in an officer's uniform?"

"I've done what needs to be done." Chris replied. "What have you been doing, Lieutenant?"

"Just writing down some ideas for your students."

"Such as?" Chris probed his adjutant.

"Such as teamwork. I know that they've experienced it during SAO. But it wouldn't hurt if they were taught more of it. And I'm thinking that I might make myself available for personal advice for whomever may need additional coaching."

"I see..." Chris pondered at the suggestion. "I suppose they could use a somewhat friendlier face..."

"Correct, while you would be unavailable, I can fill in for you." Preston suggested. "After all, you are the fighting symbol of our nation in battle... Not to mention for the free world."

Chris sat back briefly. Preston had a point, and Captain America could not always play drill sergeants, as the position had to set an example of leadership for others. "Good points."

"And if I may ask..." Preston followed up, "you sure about bringing in the real drill sergeants for the wringer?"

"I'm very sure of it." Chris responded. "They engage in ways that I would not as a CO."

"That's reasonable." Preston nodded. "I just hope they don't break them too badly." He chuckled at the thought of other drill sergeants running them into the ground. Still, it would not be for another while.

"So what's next, Cap?" Preston asked.

"I will finish the school work here, sign remaining agreements, and then we return to base," Chris answered. "I suppose you'll be doing the same."

"I will unless you order me otherwise," Preston said.

"Very well then..." Chris replied. "Because I do have orders for you from Okinawa..." Chris revealed, "orders of a special mission from the top."

"Figures, what are the orders." Preston asked.

"Not here," Chris made a whirling motion with his finger, "top secret."

"Of course." Preston nodded.

"All I can say though, is that you get some good night's rest," Chris suggested.

"Will do," Preston wondered what it was, but then again, he would help cover missions where Captain America might have been too conspicuous.

World Tree, Alfheim Online – 11:55pm:

Leafa flew up the nighttime Alfheim sky, the game's moon shined above her with the twinkling stars. She still could not believe that the game had been revived in such short order...

'Kirito sure does know his skills.' Leafa thought gleefully. And this ALO came with many improvements... One, for instance, the Pain Absorber is removed. And a revised hit and pain code was hard imbedded in the system to prevent tampering by malicious actors. Along with firewall codes to prevent outside hacking from third-parties. Hydra included.

However, Leafa was not paying attention to that, instead marveling at the new flight system. There's no time limit for the flight system, so players can fly as long as they wanted. It was being widely celebrated as a symbol of liberation from Oberon's machinations.

'ALO's free at last.' Leafa thought. While part of her still feared the dreadful events in that Void with Oberon, it was overtaken by the joy that she would have with her friends in the new ALO. This included her beloved, Lexar.

From the corner of her eye, another player flew up towards her. The player is dressed in a black outfit, the appearance of a Spriggan player. "Leafa!"

She recognized that voice and slowed down. "Lexar!"

Lexar was just as happy to be flying. "Where are you going?"

"I just wanted to see all of Alfheim from the sky." Leafa answered. "And I don't have to worry about a timer!"

"I also heard that we can make our way to the top of the World Tree." Lexar added. "I even heard an actual city is built there. I believe it's called Yggdrasil."

"Just like the tree!" Leafa snapped her fingers.

"I think I remember Kirito saying something special occurring around midnight." Lexar recollected. "He just told us to not be late."

Leafa looked around. "It looks like we're early."

True enough, the whole of Alne City was alit, with players from all the different territories soaring in. From the crowd of players, one of the Spriggans flew up towards Lexar and Leafa. Kirito was glad to see his sister and best friend arrive.

"Kirito!" Lexar called out. "You made it!"

"Wouldn't miss it." Kirito smiled. The three looked up towards the World Tree. Then, at the top of the trunk where the first branches are seen, lights flickered above. It was the sparkling new city... Yggdrasil.

"Wow..." Leafa gasped. The top of the tree is covered in countless tiny lights. As they flew closer towards the Tree, they spotted the details of lights and open windows from the various buildings that stood throughout city blocks.

"So beautiful..." Leafa marveled.

"It sure is, Leafa-nechan." A feminine voice replied. Leafa and Lexar turned to see a female Undine player. Her long, blue hair and her blue eyes shined beautifully from the Alfheim moonlight.

Kirito smiled at the Undine's beauty. "Asuna..." He sighed happily.

"Hey Kirito-kun..." Asuna cooed as she hugged her husband. Kirito held her as he got a good look at her.

"I love the Undine appearance. The blue hair and eyes suit you better." Kirito admitted with flushing cheeks. "Better than any of the other races."

"Thanks, Kirito." Asuna blushed. Kirito's breast-pocket stirred and a tiny pixie fairy flew out and landed on his shoulder.

"It looks lovely, mommy." Yui chimed.

Asuna blinked for a moment in silence. Then she smiled brightly. "Oh Yui! You are so adorable!"

Yui flew up and hugged Asuna's cheek. "Hi Mommy!"

Asuna rubbed her finger against Yui's head. "Hi, Yui. Good to be with you again."

It was then, a female Gnome player appeared before the group and hugged Asuna. "Don't forget me, mom." She cheered.

"Oh!" Asuna was surprised.

"Sorry, mom." Strea giggled.

"That you, Strea?" Kirito asked.

"It's me, dad!" Strea cheered and hugged Kirito.

"Gah!" Kirito was surprised yet again at Strea's strength.

Then, another male Spriggan player appeared. Strea turned to see the player and smiled. "Codex!" Strea glomped onto Codex. "Welcome back!"

Codex laughs and hugs Strea. "It's good to be back, Strea. And I missed you."

"I missed you too, Codex." Strea smiled as she felt Codex cradling her in his embrace.

Asuna was catching her breath as Kirito held her. "Our Strea is something, isn't she?" Kirito chuckled.

"Still... she is strong!" Asuna gasped. "Is she always like this, Yui?"

Yui looked at Strea, then back to Asuna. "She can be very excitable, Mommy. And, she tends to get carried away."

Kirito watched as Strea and Codex embraced each other. "Well, she is who she is, and Codex loves her for that."

"And we're happy for them." Asuna smiled.

Kirito laughed, he the pointed towards the moon. "Look, here it comes."

The small group looked towards the moon.

"I don't see anything." Leafa said.

"Wait for it," Kirito grinned. A few seconds later, a black shadow beings to appear over the moon, it appeared to be an eclipse at first. However, as it grew, the shape itself wasn't a circle. A shape of the triangular wedge digging farther into the sphere.

Asuna and Leafa gasped.

"Is that what I think it is?" Asuna asked.

"It is.." Kirito smiled. The bells from Yggdrasil rang, signaling that it's midnight. With that... the flying castle of Aincrad lit up a brilliant gold, complimenting Yggdrasil City's white shine. Leafa took in the size of the flying castle. She saw tiny little fixtures sprouting up and down between the bottom two layers. It only took a moment to realize that they're buildings. A number of massive buildings with several floors' worth of windows.

'How many feet and miles does it have?' Leafa asked mentally. All the SAO and ALO survivors in attendance gasped. Even Lexar was left speechless.

"But how?"

Both Yui and Strea stared up towards Aincrad in awe.

"Yui..." Strea muttered.

"I know, Strea..." Yui said softly. "That's Aincrad."

Strea then glanced towards Codex who, like the others, watched as Aincrad loomed over the moon. She expected dread, trauma, and shock... To her surprise, she didn't detect any signs of distress. If anything, Codex seemed nostalgic and smiling.

Strea went over and hugged Codex. "You like it," Strea said. It was not a question, but a statement of knowing.

"I do, Strea.." Codex then hugged Strea. "It's a chance for us to start again. And this time, we'll do it together."

"Codex..." Strea was touched as she held a hand to her chest. For the past two years were hard on him and everyone. And after the ordeal back in January, they'll be able to make new memories in the ALO version of Aincrad. It was going to be like what SAO was supposed to have been.

Lexar spoke up. "It's strange that after two years of being trapped in SAO, it's good to see Aincrad again." He admitted.

Kirito hummed. "It's really a sight."

The floating structure slowed its approach, and stopped when it was nearly close enough to touch the highest branches of the World Tree.

Asuna was the first to clap. Followed by Kirito, then Lexar. Mace and Lisbeth then added cheers. Sleek and Silica continued to watch as the cheers grew louder.

"This is the first time I'm seeing it from the outside," Sleek realized. "Think we'd be able to climb up to the top?"

"I think there is one simple way to find out," Silica chimed with a smile. "We start with the first floor."

"I like the sound of that," Sleek agreed.

"Is this for real?" Rain gasped towards Haze.

"I believe so.." Haze smirked. "Besides, we didn't made our way to the top. Just reached floor 75. To be honest... I was always curious about the next twenty-five floors. Who knows what's there, the loot and floor bosses."

"Rex... that's," Kureha curled up a bit.

"I know." Rex wrapped his arm around Kureha. "It's okay."

She looked up towards Aincrad, then back to Rex. "I wonder what will happen once we enter the first floor?" She asked.

"I'm sure that it is nothing to worry about," Rex assured as he stroked Kureha's hair. "And besides, we'll be doing this together and make new memories." He pecked her cheek in reassurance.

Kirito looked up with Asuna, Leafa and Lexar. Asuna then noticed something about her husband's stats. His speed and stamina appeared to have increased. However, all of his other stats, such as inventory and achievements were pretty much basic or blank.

"Hey Kirito... why are your stats reset, except your speed and stamina?" Asuna asked softly.

"Hmm?" Kirito glanced at Asuna before opening up the stats menu to see what she meant. "Oh... I meant to reset my avatar," Kirito explained...

"Really? Didn't think that was possible." Asuna raised an eyebrow. "But why reset your stats?"

Lexar and Leafa heard their conversation and waited for Kirito's reply.

"I just felt, that the Kirito of SAO had already played his role," Kirito smiled. "And I felt that my avatar can be reborn through New Aincrad. A new start... for me," he gave Asuna a loving look, "and you."

"Don't forget me and the rest of us, daddy." Yui chimed.

"Hey, guys!" Klein was spotted flying towards the group with several others in tow. "Sorry we're late, had to make sure the rest of my guild logged in."

"Same with me and the wife," Agil smiled as he held his wife's hand. The both of them were Gnomes.

"So that's Aincrad." Trish admired the size of the floating castle. She resembled her real life self, albeit in a light armored dress in the same green colors as her husband's.

Kirito also noted that Philia was flying with two males, one by her side, and the other behind. He took a closer look at the two players and recognized them.

"Damion, Jenson." Kirito smiled.

"It's Dex right now," the Salamander boy replied.

Kirito then turned to Jenson to see his avatar name. "Call me Keeper," the Leprechaun said, "for I am my brother's keeper."

"So true..." Dex agreed.

"Hey everyone!" Philia waved. "We made it."

"I see you got your Army boyfriend to come play," Kirito teased.

"Hehe..." Keeper chuckled.

"Hey, I'm as much a gamer as the rest of you," Dex retorted. "Been that since childhood."

"I can attest to that," Philia winked. She then proceeded to hug Dex. "And don't you tease someone who handles grenades."

"I wonder if we're able to do that here." Keeper asked. "Like back in the old ALO. You there," he nodded towards Kirito, "you know anything about that?"

Kirito shook his head. "I doubt that we would have an industrial update."

Keeper just pouted. Strea however, just beamed and approached Keeper. "I think there's another game that has that."

"Come on, let's go!" Klein cheered as he led the way. Several players begin flying towards New Aincrad to start their quest.

Kirito and Asuna watched with their friends as players old and new streamed towards the castle.

"You ready, Asuna?" Kirito asked.

Asuna smiled, the lights making her blue hair shine. "I'm ready, Kirito. Let's do it."

The two entwined their fingers together. Then, they flew towards New Aincrad with the others. Lexar held out his fist as he led Leafa.

Philia smiled. "Get ready to travel through Aincrad." She planted a kiss against Dex's cheek, causing him to blush while Keeper chuckles. Mace and Lisbeth shot past with eagerness in their eyes.

"Last one there is a rotten orc!" Lisbeth called out.

"Not us!" Sleek and Silica chased after them.

"Better catch up with them." Rex said to Kureha as he takes her by the hand and they fly up towards them. "Stick with me and you'll be fine," Rex assured Kureha as they flew.

"You ready to go back to Aincrad?" Haze asked Rain.

"As long as you fight alongside me," Rain answered.

"Good. Let's do it." They both fly along with the others.

Recon looked around at all the other players. He was looking for her... as she promised to meet him...

It was then, he spotted her, she appeared as a Imp fairy with short, purple hair. Most importantly, the tag name read as she gave it.

"Lola." Recon muttered. He quickly approached Lola and waved to her. "Lola, it's me, Recon!"

"Shinichi?" Lola asked. She checked his gamer tag, and saw that it was indeed him. She flies towards him. "Hey there!"

"Glad you can make it." Recon smiled. Lola resembled her real life self. Her short, brown hair replaced with short, purple hair with matching red-violet eyes. She was rather cute and petite.

"I'm glad to be here too." Lola chimed. "You don't look too different from your real self, Recon."

"T-Thanks, Lola." Recon stammered and blushed.

Kirito and Asuna were then greeted by Yulier and Thinker coming alongside them.

"Just like old times, right?" Thinker smirked.

"It sure is," Kirito nodded back.

"Agreed." Asuna smiled.

"Good to see you both," Yulier cheered. She then hugged Asuna. "How is your husband treating you, Asuna?"

"He's been giving me the princess treatment." Asuna's cheeks went pink. "He's my knight in shining armor."

Yulier giggled. "That's Kirito for you. And at night?"

Asuna's face bloomed a deep shade of red upon hearing this question. "Yulier, that's-"

"Oh... I see..." Yulier said sheepishly.

"But yes... he treats me very well," Asuna shyly conceded.

"That's good to hear." Yulier smiled.

"Great work helping bring this back," Thinker complimented Kirito.

"Thanks." Kirito nodded. "It was quite simple."

"Glad to see that place again." Thinker added.

"And now we get to play it as it should have been," Kirito added as he held Asuna's hand.

Strea chimed in. "And we'll do it together!" She hugged Codex. Kirito and Asuna laughed as everyone continued to fly towards New Aincrad for their new adventures together.