~~Hello readers, I'm back with a new chapter.
I do not own anything from Sword Art Online or Code Name: Kids Next Door.
Only my original characters belong to me.~~
It was now mid morning in the virtual world of Aincrad.
Sioku and her new guild mates had just finished their meal at a cafe.
Kibaou led Sioku and Morte straight into the dungeon.
They heard the voices of other players coming from a different area.
Those territorial spider monsters came into view once the group had entered.
The spiders immediately charged at them with their claws out.
Kibaou protectively stepped in front of Sioku and pulled out his sword.
He dodged the spiders' attacks while repeatedly slashing at them.
Morte Joined Kibaou and followed suit.
Sioku pulled out her sword and bravely fought off the spiders that were surrounding Kibaou and Morte.
She quickly hopped around in circles in order to confuse them.
One by one, many spiders disappeared as Sioku drained their HP completely.
"Thank you for the support Sioku," said Kibaou.
"Any time," Sioku replied with a smile.
As the battles against those demons raged on, the players were beginning to lose their HP.
Sioku handed a potion to each of her friends before she restored her own HP.
Much to their shock, bigger spider monsters joined in the battle.
Unlike the smaller spiders, the big ones had poison in their claws and teeth.
The three players charged at the giant spiders with full power.
However, it was becoming more difficult for Sioku and her guild mates to fight them off.
Just as Kibaou had finished killing a spider, another one jumped onhim from behind and sank its poison filled fangs into his neck.
Kibaou groaned in pain as he fell to the ground with a hard thud.
His HP was draining at an alarming rate.
Sweat covered his body as he panted heavily.
He felt his body burning up from the inside.
Sioku was startled when she heard his sword hit the floor.
She quickly turned around and rushed to Kibaou's rescue.
"What in the world is going on?" she asked out loud.
Her eyes grew wide with horror when she saw Kibaou helplessly laying on the ground.
"Oh no... Kibaou? What happened to you?" she hollered frantically.
She carefully knelt down beside the injured man.
"I've been poisoned," he whispered weakly.
Sioku gasped in terror at that.
A million thoughts raced through her mind all at once.
She grabbed Kibaou's hand and held it firmly in both of hers.
Tears welled up in Sioku's eyes as she leaned over him.
Losing the player Sioku loved was the main thing that she feared most in this virtual world.
"Please hang in there Kibaou, I won't let you die. I will find a way to save you," she said sadly.
Kibaou tried to squeeze her hand in response.
He stared up at Sioku with a pleading look in his eyes.
"You're going to be okay Kibaou, I promise. Please stay with me," Sioku added with deep concern.
Kibaou tried moving but to no avail.
Sioku comfortingly placed one hand over him and said softly. "No Kibaou, you have to stay still. The poison will spread through your body quicker if you move."
Kibaou weakly grabbed onto Sioku's other hand and tried to hold it.
Sioku's breath caught in her throat at his action.
A feeling of elation coursed through Sioku's body which caused her to blush.
Her heart began to race with joy.
She quickly pushed those dreamy thoughts away in order to focus on helping him.
Sioku Held both of his hands while staring affectionately into his eyes.
"I won't let you go Kibaou," she whispered.
Morte heard all of the commotion and turned around.
"Kibaou sir, I'm coming to help you!" he shouted from behind them.
"Please hurry, Kibaou has been poisoned!" Sioku called back.
As soon as he arrived at the scene, Morte quickly grabbed the spider by its leg and yanked it off of Kibaou with full force.
Kibaou winced in pain and let out a yelp.
Sioku gently lifted Kibaou onto her lap and held him close.
"It's okay Kibaou, I'm right here. I won't leave your side," she said soothingly.
Kibaou began to shiver violently in Sioku's embrace.
Sioku's heart began to race with fear.
She stroked his hair in an attempt to sooth him.
Morte furiously dug his sword into the monster's body, draining all of its HP in the process.
The spider faded into particles of dust.
"Nice work Morte," Sioku praised as she watched.
Morte gave a thumbs up in return.
Mort knelt down on Kibaou's other side before he examined him.
Blood was pouring from his wound onto the floor.
Morte placed his hands over Kibaou's wound and applyed as much pressure to it as he possibly could.
Kibaou continued to stare at Sioku while struggling to keep his eyes open.
Sioku lovingly tightened her hold on him.
Morte shifted his attention to the distressed girl and asked calmly. "Sioku, do you have any antidote crystals on you?"
Sioku frantically opened her inventory and answered. "I'm not sure, but i'll check."
Much to Sioku's relief, she found and selected an antidote crystal.
She then turned to Morte and asked wearing a frantic expression. "How am I supposed to use this thing?"
"You can hand the crystal over to me. I'll place it on Kibaou's wound. The antidote inside this crystal is strong enough to get rid of the poison," Morte explained.
Without any hesitation, Sioku passed the crystal to Morte before she shifted her focus back to Kibaou.
Kibaou had finally given in to the exhaustion and closed his eyes.
He lay asleep in her arms.
Morte gently pressed the antidote crystal onto Kibaou's wound and held it there.
Sioku continued to embrace and reassure her friend.
All of the poison had left Kibaou's weakened body by the time the antidote crystal had run out of power.
Ten minutes later, Kibaou slowly began to show signs of improvement.
"Morte, thank you so much for your help. This man right here means a lot to me," said Sioku with a relieved smile.
"You're welcome Sioku," Morte replied quietly.
Sioku selected the most powerful healing spell she had and then said the incantation.
The wound on Kibaou's neck disappeared almost instantly.
Kibaou opened his eyes and stared at Sioku.
Sioku placed a hand on Kibaou's shoulder and spoke gently to him. "Oh Kibaou, I was very worried about you. How are you feeling?"
"Really tired," he simply answered.
Sioku selected a potion from her inventory and handed it to Kibaou.
"Here, please take this potion. It will restore your energy," she said softly.
"Thank you Sioku," Kibaou replied as he gently took the potion from her.
Sioku then turned to Morte who was still sitting next to them and said. "Excuse me Morte, I think you should go find and join another party. I'm going to take Kibaou somewhere safe so he can rest."
"Very well Sioku, I'll probably go join the other party that is already in this dungeon. Please take good care of our leader," Morte replied.
"You don't have to worry Morte, Kibaou is in good hands. I'll stay right by his side," Sioku said with a bright smile.
"I don't doubt that," Morte replied before he walked away.
Once they were alone, Sioku pulled Kibaou closer and whispered in his ear. "Hey Kibaou, would you like to go to my house for a while?"
"Sure," he answered briefly.
Sioku stood up carefully while still holding Kibaou tight.
She then carried him slowly out of the dungeon.
Once outside, Sioku used a teleport crystal to automatically transport them to the Town of Beginnings.
Kibaou laid his head on Sioku's shoulder in exhaustion.
"Don't worry Kibaou, we're almost there. I'll help you settle in as soon as we get inside," she assured.
Sioku hurried down the grassy path that led to her house.
Once at the door, Sioku opened it before she quickly entered.
She then sat down on one of the couches.
Kibaou closed his eyes again and fell asleep in her arms.
"Jessy! Ariel! Are you two here?" she called out.
Kibaou flinched nervously at the sound of Sioku's hollering.
Sioku comfortingly placed her hand on his head and whispered. "I'm so sorry Kibaou, I was just looking for my friends."
Kibaou snuggled up to her in response.
"I'm here Sioku!" Jessy called back from the kitchen.
Jessy then ran into the living room.
"Hello Sioku, I haven't seen you in a while. Where have you been?" she greeted with excitement.
Sioku protectively put a hand up to stop her friend and explained. "Hold on Jess, please be very careful around Kibaou. He is trying to recover from a severe injury. He just got badly poisoned by a spider in the dungeon."
Jessy paused abruptly as she stared down at Kibaou.
"Wait Sioku, he's the man who you're in love with?" she asked.
Sioku smiled at her friend and answered in a flustered way. "Yes, but I'll talk to you and Ariel about that later. I need to get Kibaou settled in now.
"You can take him to your room," Jessy suggested.
"Great idea Jess," Sioku replied as she stood up.
"I'll see you later Sioku," said Jessy before she returned to the kitchen.
Sioku carried Kibaou down the short hallway and then into her bedroom.
After closing the door behind them, Sioku gently layed Kibaou down on her bed.
She then placed the covers over him.
Sioku smiled in adoration as she stared at him.
Kibaou woke up and grabbed Sioku's arm tightly.
Sioku noticed this and asked suddenly. "Kibaou, what's going on? Are you all right?"
His body trembled as he tried to maintain his grip on Sioku's arm.
"Sioku, please don't leave my side. I need you," he pleaded.
Sioku slipped under the covers and pulled Kibaou into a comforting embrace.
"Don't worry Kibaou, I'm right here. You're safe now," she said softly.
Kibaou wrapped his arms around Sioku and hugged her tight.
His body continued to tremble against hers.
Sioku lovingly stroked his hair as she sang a song to him.
The soothing melody calmed him down enough to relax.
Sioku continued to hold Kibaou as he slept peacefully in her embrace.
She let out a dreamy sigh while smiling at him in admiration.
"I wish this beautiful moment could last forever," she thought.
Sioku yawned and closed her eyes.
Complete silence filled her room.
She drifted into the darkness a few minutes later.
Hours passed by as they slept in each other's arms.
A knock at the door suddenly woke Sioku from her sleep.
"Come in," she answered.
The door slowly opened, and Ariel entered the bedroom.
"Hey Sioku," she greeted.
"Hello Ariel, how have you been?" Sioku replied quietly.
Ariel walked closer to the bed and answered. "I've been all right, how about you?"
Sioku gently placed her hand on Kibaou's forehead and replied. "I'm okay, but you must be very careful over here. Kibaou is resting right now."
"Jessy told me that you had him over. What happened?" Ariel continued.
Sioku took a deep breath and explained. "Kibaou got badly poisoned by a spider in the dungeon. The poor guy has been fighting for his life since then. I already healed his wound and got rid of the poison. Now Kibaou is emotionally attached to me. He doesn't want me to leave his side."
"That sounds rough," Ariel replied.
Kibaou grabbed Sioku's hand off of his forehead and held it tightly.
Sioku smiled at Kibaou as a rush of energy flowed through her system.
Ariel grinned at Sioku and said in a joking manner. "Awe, he really does love you. You two would be perfect for each other anyway."
Sioku's cheeks pinked up as she replied quietly. "You saw that?"
Ariel only nodded in response.
Sioku paused in confusion before she spoke to him. "Kibaou, are you all right?"
Kibaou jolted awake and started panting heavily.
Sweat dripped profusely down his face.
"Wo, is he okay?" asked Ariel.
"He probably had a bad dream," Sioku answered.
She held Kibaou close to her and spoke smoothly to him. "Hey, Kibaou, what's going on?"
There was no response from him.
Kibaou continued to breathe heavily as he trembled violently in her arms.
Sioku let out a disappointed sigh as she stared at her friend.
"Kibaou... please tell me what's bothering you. I only want to help," she said soothingly.
Kibaou snuggled up to Sioku while still keeping a tight grip on her hand.
She lovingly tightened her hold on Kibaou and waited patiently for him to calm down.
Ariel watched her friend in admiration.
Kibaou eventually calmed down as Sioku continued to hold and reassure him.
Once Kibaou had finally relaxed, Sioku turned to Ariel wearing a remorseful expression.
"I'm sorry, he isn't normally like this at all. Kibaou is usually an expressive and fearless fighter," she said sadly.
Ariel looked at Sioku and replied curiously. "That's okay, do you think the poison may have done something to his mental status?"
Sioku let out a heavy sigh and answered. "Maybe, hopefully I can help him return to his normal self again very soon."
"I hope so too," Ariel replied sympathetically.
Kibaou laid his head on Sioku's neck and sighed.
Sioku hugged him tight and whispered softly. "Don't worry Kibaou, I'm not going anywhere. I promise to be right here through your recovery."
She selected a healing spell and said it quietly to him.
Kibaou relaxed almost instantly and fell asleep.
Ariel's eyes widened in surprise as she stared at Sioku.
"Wow, I didn't know that you knew how to use healing magic," she said.
"I didn't find out about those healing spells until this morning," Sioku replied brightly.
A long period of silence passed between the three of them.
Sioku soothingly stroked Kibaou's hair in order to keep him relaxed.
She then turned to Ariel and said quietly. "I did this to Trooper all the time whenever we laid down together. I miss my dog so much."
"I miss my Pomeranians too," she replied sadly.
A few minutes later, Jessy cautiously entered the room.
"Hey love birds," she joked.
Sioku giggled before she replied. "Hi Jess, what brings you in here?"
"I came to check on both of you," Jessy answered.
"That's very nice of you Jess, we're okay. I just used a healing spell on Kibaou a few minutes ago," Sioku replied with a smile.
Jessy paused and stared down at Kibaou.
"Wo, that man is out like a light. He looks adorable with you," she said happily.
Sioku's face heated up as she grinned at Jessy.
"Thank you Jess, I enjoy taking care of him," she replied with the same amount of happiness.
Jessy then looked at Sioku wearing a curious expression and asked. "When will you and Kibaou rejoin your guild?"
"As soon as he recovers," Sioku answered.
"That's a smart idea," replied Ariel.
Kibaou trembled slightly as he squeezed Sioku's hand.
She soothingly rubbed his forehead with her thumb to relax him.
"I'm still here," she assured softly.
Jessy and Ariel smiled at Sioku and then at each other.
They seemed fascinated by her way of helping Kibaou.
Sioku heard whispers and quiet laughter coming from the two girls.
"Hey Sioku, would you like to go on a quest with Ariel and me sometime?" asked Jessy.
"Yes, but Kibaou and I must finish our mission first. My guild and I were trying to clear the dungeon on this floor. I really do miss spending time with you guys," Sioku explained.
"That's understandable," replied Ariel.
In the midst of their conversation, Kibaou woke up and stared at Sioku.
Sioku smiled and hugged him close to her.
"Hi Kibaou, how are you feeling?" she greeted.
Kibaou let out a quiet yawn before he answered. "Hey Sioku, I'm all right. I sincerely apologize for the trouble I caused. I acted like a scared little kid after the poison incident. You have every right to be embarrassed with me."
Sioku pulled him into a comforting embrace and said smoothly. "Don't worry Kibaou, I'm just glad to know that you're okay. You didn't cause any trouble at all. I chose to help and care for you. Besides, you didn't embarrass me either. I wanted to keep you safe as well"
"That was very kind of you Sioku. You saved my life," he replied softly.
"I'm so glad," Sioku whispered before she lightly kissed his cheek.
A brief moment of silence passed between them.
Sioku placed her hand on Kibaou's shoulder and asked softly. "Do you feel good enough to rejoin the guild?"
"No Sioku, I still don't have enough strength to fight right now. I need to rest up a bit more," he answered.
A message from Morte popped up on Kibaou's NerveGear, and he quickly opened it up.
The message read: Hello sir, are you feeling better?
Kibaou let go of Sioku's hand and replied: Yes Morte, but I still don't have enough energy to resume our mission. How are you and the others doing?
Morte answered: My party and I are doing just fine. We have cleared most of the dungeon.
Sioku looked at Kibaou and asked curiously. "Who was that?"
"Morte, he and his party are still trying to clear the dungeon. They are almost finished," Kibaou answered.
Sioku's face saddened as she replied. "I'm so sorry Kibaou, I wish I took that spider out before it had a chance to bite you. You and I would have been able to help our guild mates finish the mission."
"It's not your fault Sioku," he reassured.
Kibaou placed his hand on Sioku's shoulder and carefully pulled himself up into a sitting position.
Sioku couldn't help but blush and smile at the man.
She sat up and put her arm around him.
Ariel looked at Kibaou and greeted. "Hello sir, it's nice to meet you. My name is Ariel. I am one of Sioku's best friends from school."
Jessy grinned at Kibaou and chimed in. "Same here, my name is Jessy. I am Sioku's other best friend from school. Sioku has told Ariel and me so much about you."
Kibaou smiled back at the girls and replied. "I'm pleased to meet both of you as well. Sioku has been taking great care of me since we first met. I am so grateful to have Sioku as a friend and guild mate."
Sioku threw her arms around him and said joyfully. "Oh Kibaou, having the opportunity to help and take care of you was the best thing that ever happened to me in the virtual world. I will always cherish our beautiful friendship, even if you and I can't meet each other in the real world. You will be in my heart forever."
Kibaou returned the hug and laid his head on Sioku's shoulder.
"Are you two hungry?" asked Ariel.
"Yes, I could go for some food right now," answered Sioku.
Kibaou laughed nervously as he heard his stomach growl.
"Same here," he added.
"Ariel and I will meet you guys in the living room," replied Jessy.
The two girls then exited Sioku's room.
"Hey Kibaou, are you ready to go?" asked Sioku as she gently took his hand.
She felt a rush of hyper energy flow through her system.
"Yes," he simply answered.
Sioku stood up before she slowly helped Kibaou get back on his feet.
They kept their arms around each other for support.
After she exited her bedroom, Sioku carefully led Kibaou into the living room.
She then helped Kibaou situate himself on a couch next to the window.
The warm sunlight shined throughout the entire living room.
Sioku and Kibaou rested against the couch pillows and remained silent.
A few minutes later, Jessy entered the room while carrying two glass cups filled with water.
She then set them down on the coffee table.
"These are for you guys," she said to Sioku.
"Thank you very much," Sioku replied graciously.
She grabbed one of the glasses and then gently handed it to Kibaou.
Kibaou grinned as he accepted the cup from her.
He took a sip of water before setting his cup back down on the coffee table.
Sioku decided to start a conversation and smiled at Kibaou. "If my dog Trooper had the ability to log into SAO, I'm sure you two would get along."
Kibaou laughed and patted the girl's head.
"It would be nice to have dogs in the virtual world. They are a joy to have around," he replied.
"You got that right," said Sioku before she laughed.
In the midst of their conversation, Jessy and Ariel entered the living room while carrying two trays of food.
"Hello ladies," Sioku greeted.
"Hi Sioku," replied Ariel.
"Jessy looked at Kibaou and added. "Are you feeling better?"
"Of course," he answered.
Jessy and Ariel carefully set both trays down on the coffee table.
Sioku looked at the food and then smiled at her friends.
"That food looks delicious," she commented.
Ariel smiled back and replied. "Thank you, we made those fish sandwiches again."
"That sounds good," Kibaou added.
Sioku and her friends ate their meal in silence.
Afterward, Sioku helped Jessy and Ariel clean up the place while Kibaou sat down on the couch and rested.
Once all of their chores were done, Sioku rejoined Kibaou on the couch.
She put her arm around Kibaou and snuggled up to him.
He wrapped his arms around her in return.
"You love birds really do look cute together," Jessy commented.
She and Ariel sat on the opposite couch.
Sioku's cheeks heated up as she replied. "Thank you Jess, but Kibaou and I are just good friends."
Kibaou laughed at the sight of Sioku's pink cheeks.
"You two haven't left each other alone since you brought him over here," Ariel added wearing a playful smile.
"Zip it," Sioku replied as she blushed.
Kibaou and the two girls laughed in unison at Sioku's flustered reaction.
A call from Morte popped up on Kibaou's NerveGear, and he answered it.
Sioku laid her head on Kibaou's chest.
The steady rise and fall of his chest instantly relaxed her.
She closed her eyes and slipped into a pleasant train of thought.
"Hello Morte," Kibaou greeted.
"Good afternoon sir, how are you doing?" Morte replied.
"I'm feeling much better. Sioku and I just finished having lunch," Kibaou answered.
Morte cleared his throat before he added. "Do you know when you are coming back in the guild?"
"Sioku and I should be returning very soon," Kibaou answered.
"That's good to hear," Morte said before he ended the call.
Kibaou smiled down at Sioku and playfully ruffled her hair.
"You're so cute," he said happily.
Sioku grinned at him in response.
"My dog lays on me like that all the time," he added while brushing loose hair out of her face.
Sioku let out a relaxed sigh.
A message from Kirito popped up on Sioku's NerveGear which caused the girl to open her eyes.
Kibaou placed a calming hand on Sioku's shoulder and asked with concern. "Sioku, are you all right?"
Sioku nodded before she selected her new message.
The message read: Hi Sioku, how are you?
Sioku answered: I'm good, I just saved Kibaou's life after he got poisoned in the dungeon. How are you?
Kirito replied: I'm good as well, Asuna and I solved that murder case. I also met a blacksmith named Lizbeth. She made me a cool new sword. I joined Asuna's guild after losing a duel. Asuna and I just adopted a child named Yui.
Sioku grinned at the message and responded: Awe, I want to meet your little girl sometime. You and Asuna make a cute couple.
Jessy looked at Sioku and asked curiously. "Who were you just talking to?"
"Kirito," she answered briefly.
"How is he doing?" added Ariel.
"Kirito and Asuna are together now. They also adopted a kid," Sioku answered happily.
"That's awesome," replied Jessy.
Jessy grinned at Sioku and asked playfully. "Hey Sioku, are you and Kibaou going to become girlfriend and boyfriend as well?"
"Cut it out Jess," Sioku replied as she blushed.
Jessy and Ariel giggled at the sight of Sioku's bright red cheeks.
Kibaou paused as he looked around the room.
"Hey Kibaou, are you all right?" asked Sioku.
Kibaou let out a heavy sigh and answered. "Yes, but you and I need to go meet up with our guild."
Sioku grabbed his arm and replied with concern. "Hold on Kibaou, are you sure? Do you really have enough strength to fight again?"
"Yes, I'll be just fine. Please don't worry about me. I am back to full health because of you," Kibaou answered smoothly.
Sioku gave Kibaou a quick hug before she stood up.
Kibaou stretched before he followed suit.
Jessy looked at Sioku and asked sadly. "Are you two leaving already?"
"Sioku stared back at Jessy and answered. "Yes, Kibaou and I must return as quick as possible. We need to help the others clear this dungeon."
"We'll see you later," replied Ariel.
"Please be safe," Jessy added.
"You ladies do the same," said Sioku as she headed toward the door.
Kibaou followed right behind her.
After she waved good bye to her friends, Sioku opened the door and led Kibaou outside.
She then used a teleport crystal to instantly transport them to the third floor.
Once on the third floor, Sioku and Kibaou hurried into the dungeon.
Fortunately, there weren't any monsters in sight.
The maze of spider webs had also disappeared which created an open path.
They searched the entire area for members of their guild.
However, there weren't any other players in the dungeon either.
Noises could be heard as they made their way toward the boss room.
"Our guild might be in there," said Kibaou.
"Let's hurry," replied Sioku as she ran ahead of him.
"Wait for me!" Kibaou called after her.
He followed Sioku straight into the boss room.
Once inside the boss room, Sioku and Kibaou found a party of seven players from their guild.
Morte and Lind were in that group.
"Hello everyone, Kibaou and I came here as fast as we could. Sorry for the wait," said Sioku.
Morte looked back at her and responded. "No worries, we didn't wait long at all. I'm just glad that Kibaou is still alive and well. Thank you for saving and helping him recover."
Sioku blushed and said graciously. "You're very welcome, I loved helping him."
Kibaou stood confidently in front of the group and said. "Okay guys, let's take this boss down!"
The other players cheered in unison.
Sioku let out a dreamy sigh as she listened to Kibaou raise his voice.
"I was wondering when he would do that again," she thought.
Kibaou proudly led the group as they charged at the boss from all directions.
The boss looked like a female spider demon.
They repeatedly slashed at the monster with their swords while trying to dodge its attacks.
Sioku used her healing magic to restore the players' HP whenever they needed it.
The boss fight lasted for a few minutes.
Once the boss was finally defeated, it dropped a few things before fading away.
Everybody smiled and cheered victoriously.
"Nice team work," Sioku praised.
Kibaou walked up to Sioku before placing a hand on her shoulder.
He smiled gratefully at her and said. "Sioku, thank you for all of your support during that battle. My party and I wouldn't have been able to defeat the boss without you. Your healing magic helped us win."
"You're welcome Kibaou, I am always happy to lend you guys my healing power. Congratulations on your victory," she replied with a smile of her own.
Kibaou and Sioku happily led their team out of the dungeon through an opening nearby.
They were now on the fourth floor.
That boss fight was the start of a brand new adventure for Sioku and her new guild.
They spent weeks and months clearing each floor.
Sioku would continuously restore her guild members' HP during battles to strengthen her healing powers.
She enjoyed helping her team on the front lines.
Kibaou and Sioku also had some time to themselves whenever they weren't fighting bosses or training to earn experience.
~Two Years Later~
All of the remaining players in SAO had already gotten used to living in the virtual world.
Once they had finally reached floor 22, Sioku decided to take a leave of absence for a while and hang out with her other friends.
Kibaou decided to help his team clear more floors.
Kirito and Asuna lived in a cabin in the forest.
As soon as she and Kibaou parted ways, Sioku cautiously made her way through the thick forest.
She stepped over fallen tree branches and ducked under huge plants.
A cabin soon came into view as soon as she reached an open area.
The cabin sat a few feet away from a huge lake.
Sioku calmly approached the doorstep before she knocked on the door.
The door opened revealing Asuna with a small child standing behind her.
"Hello Sioku, it's great to see you again. Please come in," she said warmly.
"Thank you Asuna, I'm happy to see you as well. You still look great," Sioku replied.
Asuna only giggled in response.
Sioku happily followed the two girls inside their home.
"You guys have a nice house. It's very comfortable in here," Sioku complemented as she looked around.
"Thank you very much," replied Asuna.
The little girl turned to Asuna and said curiously. "Mommy, do you know that girl?"
Yes Yui, this is our friend Sioku. We've known her for a while now," Asuna answered.
The little girl named Yui grinned at Sioku and hugged her tight.
Yui had long dark hair and bright black eyes.
She wore a long-sleeved pink sweater, a purple skirt, and red shoes.
"Hi Sissy, my name is Yui. I want you to be my big sister," she said.
Sioku gently hugged Yui and replied. "Oh Yui, you're so adorable! I would love to be your big sister."
Yui squealed in excitement and giggled.
The little girl ran back to Asuna who picked her up.
Sioku then turned to Asuna who was happily watching the scene.
"Excuse me, where did you find her?" she asked curiously.
"Yesterday, Kirito and I were going for a walk in the forest. We found Yui asleep in a bush and decided to take her home with us," Asuna answered.
"That was very sweet of you guys to take her in. Yui looks happy to be here," Sioku replied brightly.
Kirito jumped up from his chair and hollered. "Hey Sioku, long time no see!"
He wore a huge grin on his face.
Sioku joyfully ran over to Kirito before throwing her arms around him.
Kirito returned Sioku's hug with the same amount of happiness.
After they released each other, Sioku sat down next to Kirito.
She decided to start a conversation and smiled at him. "Kirito, how is your new guild treating you?"
"They're all right," he answered plainly.
Kirito smiled back at Sioku and added. "How are things going with your guild?"
Sioku let out an exhausted sigh and answered. "This guild is great, but we've been fighting some intense battles. Kibaou really wants to clear every floor in Aincrad."
Kirito looked sympathetically at Sioku and replied. "That sounds rough, you could use a break. Asuna and I are doing that right now. We're taking Yui to the Town of Beginnings very soon. Hopefully we'll be able to find her family there."
"Hey Kirito, are you ready to go?" asked Asuna.
"I'll be right there," Kirito answered as he stood up.
Sioku and Kirito stood up before they joined Yui and Asuna by the door.
After they exited their house, the group teleported back to the first floor.
They immediately headed over to the Town of Beginnings.
Kirito led them straight to an area where a friendly woman named Sasha was watching over a large group of children.
Sioku smiled at the sight of those children playing and running around without a care in the world.
Asuna carried Yui over to the woman and said politely. "Excuse me ma'am, we found this little girl collapsed in the forest on floor 22. Do you recognize her?"
Sasha carefully examined the little girl before she replied. "No, this child isn't familiar to me. I've been taking care of these children since the game started. All of them have suffered severe psychological trauma. I decided to care for these poor kids until the game is over."
"That's very kind of you mis Sasha," Sioku chimed in.
Asuna gently lowered Yui to the ground.
Yui walked up to Sioku and smiled at her.
Sioku ruffled Yui's hair and smiled back.
"Hey Sissy, I want you to come and live with us. I really want to get to know you," Yui said cheerfully.
Sioku looked down at Yui and replied. "Sorry, but I am already living here on this floor with my friends from school. I'll come and visit whenever I can."
In the midst of their conversation, a player from the Liberation Army entered the church.
She introduced herself as Yulier before requesting help from Kirito and Asuna.
Yulier told Kirito and Asuna that Kibaou and his group have become the most powerful players in the entire guild.
She also explained that Kibaou cared more about collecting taxes on other players and ruling over the guild than clearing the game.
Sioku looked at Yulier surprised and chimed in. "Wait a minute, are you serious? Did he really do that?"
"Yes, he also sent some of our highest leveled players to the front line. We have been thinking about kicking him out of our guild for good. Worst of all, Kibaou tried to eliminate my friend Thinker. Kibaou stranded Thinker in a high leveled dungeon on this floor by convincing him that he wanted to talk unharmed. Thinker doesn't have any weapons or items with him," Yulier explained sadly.
Sioku remained speechless as she listened to Yulier's story.
She just couldn't believe that her best friend in the game would ever hurt others for his own personal gain.
"This isn't right! The Kibaou I know would never hurt anyone! He really cares about people!" Sioku shouted furiously.
"I'm telling the truth," Yulier argued.
Asuna stared at Sioku confused and interrupted. "Calm down, why are you getting so worked up over this?"
Sioku stared sadly at Asuna and answered. "Kibaou is my best friend in the game. He never acted like that toward or around me. He showed nothing but love and compassion. Sorry, but it has been a long time since the last time I saw him."
"It's okay Sioku, I understand how you feel. People tend to change over time," replied Asuna sympathetically.
"I'm going to find him right now," Sioku whispered.
Sioku then turned to Yulier and added. "If Kibaou ever leaves this guild, so will I."
She then took off in the other direction.
Yui's face saddened as she watched Sioku disappear from her sight.
Sioku immediately headed for the hidden Dungeon.
Finding Kibaou was all she could think about.
Once inside, she frantically searched for him.
"Kibaou! Where are you?" she hollered.
Unfortunately, she was only met with silence.
Sioku leaned against a brick wall and sighed hopelessly.
She stared at the floor and slipped into a train of thought.
A few minutes later, the sound of quiet footsteps pulled Sioku out of her thoughts.
She looked ahead to see Kibaou walking toward her.
A joyful smile spread across her face at the sight of the player she loved.
"Kibaou! I missed you! Where have you been?" Sioku hollered as she threw her arms around him.
Kibaou returned the hug and looked down at her wearing a saddened expression.
"I'm glad to see you too Sioku, but I have some bad news. I have just been kicked out of the Aincrad Liberation Squad," he said quietly.
Sioku's eyes widened in shock, and she almost couldn't process the news.
She placed her hand on his shoulder and continued. "I'm so sorry Kibaou, what are you going to do now?"
"I'm going to clear the rest of these floors by myself. This is where you and I part ways," he answered sadly.
Sioku felt her heart sink as she listened to Kibaou's unfortunate answer.
A lump of emotion formed in Sioku's throat as she stared at him with tear filled eyes.
"Wait Kibaou, Please don't go yet! I want to come with you! You and I have been together for a long time! Why are you leaving me behind? I still want to be your healer," she pleaded desperately.
Sioku's legs trembeled as she tried to maintain her composure.
Kibaou gently released her and replied smoothly. "I'm sorry Sioku, but I don't want to put you in any danger. The bosses get tougher as you progress. Even if I don't make it through this death game, I will be happy to know that you are still alive and safe."
Kibaou's last statement caused the girl to lose her composure completely.
Tears of sadness rolled down her cheeks.
She fearfully grabbed onto his arm and shouted. "Hold on Kibaou, you don't need to risk your own life like that just to save me! I would never ever forgive myself if you died! You mean everything to me! Do you understand?"
"Sioku, I really do appreciate your concern for me. I feel the same way about you. That is why I don't want you to come along. It was a pleasure knowing and talking to you Sioku. I will never forget all of the great times we had together. Thanks again for saving my life back in that dungeon. Please take good care of yourself and your friends," Kibaou replied before he walked away from her.
Sioku watched sadly until Kibaou disappeared from her sight.
She exited the dungeon and then started walking toward her house.
Her heart felt heavy as can be.
Once she arrived at the house, Sioku walked inside.
She then plopped down on one of the couches.
Leaning back against a pillow, Sioku covered her face and cried silently.
The girl's heart pounded rapidly in her chest.
She didn't care to look for her friends at the moment.
Jessy noticed her distraught friend as she entered the living room.
She sat down on the couch beside her and said softly. "Hey Sioku, are you all right?"
Sioku only shook her head.
"Please tell me what happened," Jessy continued.
Sioku lifted her head and replied sadly. "Sorry for making you worry Jess, but Kibaou and I have separated. He is going on his own journey to clear the remaining floors. I don't want him to die."
Jessy pulled her friend into a comforting embrace and said smoothly. "Don't worry, I'm sure Kibaou had a good reason for leaving you behind. Ariel and I will find a way to cheer you up."
"I just want to get out of this game forever. All of my happiness had just been taken away," Sioku said slightly irritated.
"Sioku, I understand how you feel. You should go on a quest with us," Jessy suggested.
Sioku only sighed in response.
A long period of silence passed between them.
Ariel entered the room and paused abruptly as soon as she saw Sioku looking sad.
"Sioku, what happened to you?" she said wearing a concerned expression.
"Kibaou and I are no longer on the same team," Sioku answered.
Ariel sat down beside Sioku and continued. "What? Why? You two were so happy together!"
"Kibaou wants to clear the remaining floors by himself," Sioku replied.
Ariel stared at Sioku as a thought crossed her mind.
"I heard that Kirito is doing that as we speak. He wants to llog everyone out of here," she added.
"I sure hope he does," Sioku said quietly.
The three girls remained silent as they sat on the couch.