Chapter - 38
"Hello everyone, I am back! I am really sorry for taking so long, my rehabilitation took a bit longer. I am still recovering so I will be a bit slow. I left my crutches and I am finally able to walk properly again but still with a bit of pain so please bare with me in this healing journey.
On another note. I've recieved a lot of messages from artists who wish to use my story for drawings. As much as I appreciate the offer I don't know how much I can do because I don't have money to pay you and I don't have anthing to offer you, if you wish to draw my story please go right ahead and please share it with me but I won't be able to repay you, if you have any questions you are free to message me again.
With that being said, enjoy the story"
Gun of Death - SAO Integral fragments
We arrived back to the city, Kirito and Sinon were waiting for Rei and me because she was having an oil change... and you do not want to know how her oil change is managed... seriously, you don't.
Anyways, Kirito and Sinon were discussing about the plan to catch Death gun, with his stealth skills and camouflage, it is not only going to be hard to find him, it's going to be tricky to track him.
Sinon: That guy wasn't showing up in the terminal, my guess is that he probably used the same trick you used by jumping in the river, if he did, then he must have disabled his gear as well. Do you think we might have passed him?
Kirito: No, I was keeping an eye on the river as we were running.
Kirito then points to a sewage entrance, marking the end of the river.
Sinon: Oh, so the river ends here. That must means he is lurking somewhere in the city now.
Kirito: If Death gun's location shows up in the radar in the next scan, we will rush him before he gets the chance to kill anyone.
Sinon: I am fine with that but there is a flaw with that plan. How will we know who is Death gun? In case you haven't noticed, that is not his avatars handle.
Kirito: Oh yeah, your right...
You: If I may suggest something.
Sinon: Oh, your back.
Rei and I walk next to each other as I try my best to hide my blushing face.
Sinon: Your face is quite red, did something happen?
Rei: Master was just helping me with my oil change and his heartbeat rhythm just went up, I also don't know what happened, I asked him but he just said "Don't worry about it".
You: that is because you have a unique way of getting an oil change, seriously, did the developers knew what they were doing? Or is it because you just wanted me to be next you while you did your business.
Rei: of cofrse I wanted you to be next to me, It's only natural for a master to be next to his arpha-sys.
Kirito: Why? What happened?
You: Let's just say, Rei is done doing her business behind the rocks, and that is all you need to know.
Sinon: Ookaay... So what is this plan of yours?
You: We can use Rei's BIO scanner to trace down his weapon. Every player has their own set of weapons, but Death gun seems to be using equipment that are specific for handling his victims, he could be using unique accessories on his sniper and also be wielding some hand weapons. As far as we know, he is using a sniper and a handgun, if we can track down any player in this area with those set of weapons, we might be able to find him.
Sinon: As far as the scan showed, there aren't any players in this area, at least for the time being. So that might work.
Kirito: But this area is literally a city wide, will Rei be able to scan the whole city?
You: Normally no. Her scan can only go about a 110 meters. But, when we partied with Dyne I noticed something interesting. Rei was able to scan the players at a 5 to 10 kilometer radius using binoculars. If we can get to high ground and scan the entire city, we might be able to find Death gun even with his camouflage cloak.
Sinon: But will her scan be able to find him? I mean, when she scanned Behemoth she was only able to scan his player data but not his weapon because he was using a cloak to hid it.
You: That's true, but Rei was able to scan him even when he was using the cloak earlier and that is because the gun he is using isn't strapped to him, per say.
Kirito: What does that mean?
Rei: His gun was strapped to his leg, it only camouflages because it is attached to him but it is not "on" him like his sniper is, so I was able to scan his gun before he even revealed himself.
Sinon: Really?
Rei: Yes, he was using a type 54 black star handgun.
Sinon: Uh!
Sinon backed away in shock, the look in her eyes was something beyond fear, her legs even began to shake.
You: Whoa there, you okay?
Sinon: I-I... I'm fine...
Kirito: that does not sound convincing.
Rei: Your heart rate is rising up, it usually indicates a sign of stress.
Sinon: Damn you and your scanner...
You: Sinon, is there something wrong? *I say in a demanding tone*
Sinon: I told you everything is fine. Now lets get going before this Death gun guy runs off.
Sinon then storms off with anger, though I can't tell if its anger from me pushing her to answer me honestly, or because she blames herself for not answering me honestly.
Rei: What happened? Did I say something bad?
You: No Rei, don't worry, she is just in pain.
Kirito: You can tell?
You: I know pain when I see it.
I begin to make my way into the city, leaving Rei and Kirito alone in thoughts.
Rei: , you've known my master longer than me. Is he okay?
Kirito: Well... it's complicated. For him, pain and regret isn't something that is easy to forget, he has done so much for a lot of people but he barely gets any thanks for it. In some ways I can relate but he actually suffers more.
Rei: Why is that?
Kirito: He doesn't like to talk about it, but your his partner of the moment. I am sure he will open up to you rather easily. It took a while with us but ever since then, he has been more opened up. Don't worry, just focus on protecting him and you will get your answers soon.
Rei: Okay.
You: Yo! You guys coming or what?!
Kirito: let's go, they are waiting for us.
After a while of walking around the city, we find the largest building in the city, large enough to cover the city.
You: alright, that should be high enough. Rei, hold on to me.
Rei: Are you sure master? I am rather heavy, remember?
You: Don't worry, my STR is rather big, I am sure I can carry you.
Testing my theory, I was correct, I grab Rei by her waist and use my UFG to get to the top, in a matter of seconds we are at the top.
You: Wow, look at this view. You can almost see the entire map.
Rei: I can sense movement not far from here.
You: Quick, use your BIO scanner and scan the city for any players.
Rei: Right.
As I hand her the binoculars, Rei's eyes turn green and begins to scan the whole city.
Rei: I got something.
You: What is it?
Rei: I can't tell, it's actually... closer... like... *she gasp* under the building!
Rei rushes to the edge and as I take a look, I see Kirito and Sinon both on the ground paralyzed, the same way Pale rider was.
In the distance I saw a black robed figure standing right next to them.
You: Oh no! He was hiding nearby!
Rei: But how?! I didn't detect him!
You: he must have known our technique and planned to ambush us. A fall this high could kill us...
The figure was aiming the gun at Sinon, my guess was that he was planning on taking her out first... but ehy would he want to take her out first since Kirito and I were the his main targets?
You: Damn it! We won't make it in time!
Rei: NO!
Rei then jumps off the building.
You: REI!
Rei: HEAAAAAAAA!
Rei's palm began to charge with electricity and as she got to the ground.
"SMAAAAASH!"
The ground explodes with piles of dust rising as a shockwave from Rei's fist sends Death gun tumbling backwards.
Death gun: Irgh!
You: REI!
I proceed to jump from the building and use my UFG to retard my fall, as I land on the ground, I see Rei in the distance as the dust begins to clear.
Rei was on one knee and her fist on the ground, there was no sign of injury on her.
You: Rei, you-
Kirito: (You...)
You: Kirito! What happened?!
Kirito: Sinon... she just began to freak out as soon as she saw the gun...
You:Sinon?
Sinon: No please... i'm sorry...
Sinon was trembling in fear... but I've never seen her react this way, she is always the serious one.
"Clap-clap-clap"
Slow and loud claps was heard in the distance and Death gun appears applauding slowly walking towards us.
Death gun: Amazing, simply amazing. I guess I was right after all, you two are the real deal.
The deep menacing robotic voice was like a an air of cold breezing my spine, he is smart and sneaky, there was no doubt he was with laughing coffin.
You: Who are you? Tell me your name!
Death gun: I must say, I'm a little hurt. How could you possibly forget the name of your old pal? Well, I guess we weren't exactly acquainted but come now, surely even you must remember my name.
You: Oh I remember a whole bunch of names but I do know you aren't PoH.
Death gun: Well, looks like you can remember... then that must mean that you will figure it out. That is... *he points his gun at me* If you can make it in time.
A red bullet line comes in my field of vision and my first instinct makes me dodge the bullet just as it flew right close to my eye.
You: Rei! Cure Kirito and Sinon, I will deal with this guy!
Rei: But master-
You: That's an order!
Activating my photon sword, Death gun begins run.
You: Get back here you coward!
The two of us dashed through the empty streets until eventually he makes a turn and then takes off into what seems to be a robotic horse.
You: A robatic horse? If i'd taken that, I would have named it Prada.
Getting into the same alley, I see a set of buggies and thought quickly, it was the only way to catch up to him before he disappears.
You: Alright, you can do this... its like riding Prada... only it consumes gas instead of apples and spits out fire if overheated.
"Vroom-vroom"
The buggy or bike or whatever it is turns on and I begin to ride through the streets as the hard loud noise of the motor echoed through the streets.
You: Now this is a sweet ride.
In the distance I still saw Death gun riding the horse, he looked back and began to use his gun on me.
"Bang-Bang"
You: Whoa...Wh-whoa!
Using my best sense of balance, I moved the buggy making rubber burn, avoiding the bullets. What made me wonder though, was why was he running away? Could it be that his cloaking skill is temporary or he just didn't want to hide anymore.
"Bang-bang!"
You: You want to play with guns, huh. *I grab my handgun* Too can play that game.
With one hand on the buggy and the other on the gun, I begin shooting towards Death gun but just like with him, I shoot and he dodges, the two of us are just wasting bullets.
You: "Bang-Bang" If I can get a little closer.
?: (YOU!)
Behind me, I saw Kirito arriving with Sinon and Rei on another buggy.
Kirito: What's going on?!
You: he's right up ahead!
Everyone's focus was on death gun and our only objective was to stop him.
Kirito: Sinon, your the sharp shooter, think you can take him out?
Sinon: Mm...Mmm...
Sinon was still trembling behind him, what was it that got her so frightened?
Rei: Master!
Rei then gets up from the bike and then lands on the back of mine!
You: Whoa! I didn't know you could do that!
Rei: Hehehe. These buggies got guns in their trunks, we can use them to take him out!
You: Great, grab one and aim at him.
Rei: Right!
Rei then grabs an assault rifle and then adds a super buffer to the barrel, making the bullet ten times harder and faster.
You: When did you get those accessories?
Rei: I might have looted a bit of our last opponents, was that wrong?
You: it is, but screw it. We need to do what we can, I will focus on driving so we can go faster, you keep an eye on him. Fire!
"Ta-ra-ra-ra-ra!"
The bullets flew through the streets and made the sound of metal clanking against the concrete. Eventually, we made it to the outside of the city and reached to what seems to be a an open freeway.
The sound of the motorcycle motor sounded loudly as we dashed through the freeway, Rei kept shooting at Death gun while Kirito and Sinon followed with us.
In the distance there was a gap, the road was ending.
You: Shoot...
Not putting my hand on the break, I kept going at the same speed.
Rei: Master, the road is ending.
You: I know, just keep shooting.
Rei proceeded to shoot and Death gun gets to the gap first and then jumps off.
Kirito: (You)!
You: I know, just keep the petal to the metal.
Both of the bikes were nearing the edge and within a few meters.
You: Ready... NOW!
Kirito and I both grab Sinon and Rei and then as I look back, I am my gun at the buggy and then-
"Bang!"
"KAAAA-BOOOOOM-BOOOOOM!"
Both of the buggies explode and as we see the edge, Death gun is nowehere to be seen, except the horse who was all destroyed by the explosion.
Sinon: Do you think he is dead?
You: I doubt it...
Later
The group and I walking into wastelands that represented a dessert and eventually found a cave where we were able to take shelter from both the players and the scan.
You: Phew... that was a ride.
Sinon: hey... how did you guys managed to drive one of those things anyway? They require a lot of skill to drive.
Kirito: Oh uh, I used to play a lot of racing games back in the day.
You: And I just used my old driving skills from my horse.
Sinon: But riding a horse is not driving.
You: No, but it still requires a lot of skill, you should have seen how many times I fell from her, Koharu wouldn't stop laughing.
Sinon: I see...
Sinon then sits down with a weird expression, it was hard to tell if she was sad or angry or even annoyed. Maybe it was all of them.
You: What happened back there? How did you guys got shot?
Kirito: We were just waiting for you guys and then he just popped out of nowhere.
You: My guess is that he probably caught on to our plan, maybe he wasnt even far away, he might have overheard us.
Sinon: We should be safe in here for now.
You: Good... *I sit down next to her* Because where gonna need some time when you try to explain to us, just what happened back there?!
Everyone was quiete as Sinon stood on the ground motionless, just hugging her legs and her head resting on them. I didn't care how long it took, I just wanted to know what was going on.
You: You could have taken him out, he wouldn't have gotten away... but you hesitated. Was it because you were afraid or worried?
Kirito: (You), I don't think-
You: You hush, I need to know, even if I seem like the jerk here. I don't know what you have, I don't know what you've been through... but did you ever stop to think that we can help!
Sinon: Mm... *she burries her face in her legs*
You: The choices you made didn't just affect you, it affected all of us, we could have all died and then all of this would have been for not.
Sinon: Mm...
You: Damn it, Sinon... when are you going to understand, that nobady here gives a damn who you are or what you did?! We all only care about your well being and we worry about you but you don't seemto care! So I wan't you to face me, face me now.
I then proceed to get closer to her.
You: Why? Why were you scared? That's not the Sinon I know. The Sinon I know is stubborn but sharp. She is brave, smart and a little bit cold shouldered. So what is going on?
Sinon: *she sighs* how can you say that?
You: What?
Sinon then grabs me by the collar and shows me her face, all covered in tears.
Sinon: do you think I don't hate myself for it?! Do you think I am brave, strong and smart?! I am none of those things... the Sinon you are seeing right now... is the real Sinon...
Sinon showed a side of her that she has never shown, sure she might have shown a bit of pain... but never like this.
Sinon: How dare you say those things to me... how dare you say it when you barely even know me...
You: Your right... I barely know you... so start talking. Tell me - no, tell us what's wrong.
Sinon showed a bit of restraint but looked eager to tell us now.
Sinon: Fine... I did promise that if you all stayed alive long enough i'd tell you what happened. Right now, in this world, in this avatar, I am strong... I don't have a care in the world, its like two different sides of me. In the real world... I have a fear... a fear of guns...
You: I do rember you saying that. You don't seem to be showing any signs of fear when your holding one here though.
Sinon: That's what I mean by two different sides of me. In this world, I can hold and wield a gun with no hesitation, part of the reason I even started playing GGO was so I could somehow use it as a way of letting go of the past... but in order to do that, i had to become the strongest in all of GGO...
You: So that's why your after strong targets, like that Bahemoth guy.
Sinon: yes...
You: In my experience, tough challenges comes from tough choices... in your case though, my guess would be that it had something to do from the past. Maybe something scary.
Sinon: yes... *she says in a trembling voice* I killed someone...
Kirito: Mm...
Rei: ...
You: Wow... guess some blood runs in our group, huh.
Sinon: you say it like its not a big deal.
You: N-no, sorry... it's just that, well... since I did the same, such things don't impact me as much.
Sinon: And that is what I hate about you... how is it that besides knowing what you did, you are still able to fight? I don't understand, what is it that you have that I don't?
You: What makes you think that I have something that you don't?
Sinon: is it not obvious? Your so carefree, so strong and so brave, you show a resolve that I wish to have, a resolve that I wish to get.
You: but Sinon, I am no one special, I am just a regular guy.
Sinon: Then why? Why is it that you can be so brave all the time?
You: Sinon, you are mistaken.
Sinon: Huh?
You: I am not brave... I get scared very easily, the moment I know my life is at stake, I get shaken up... that Death gun guy... I don't know who he is and yet he still terrifies me, despite facing him in the past, I still get scared.
Sinon: Even so... you are still able to fight... i couldn't... the moment I saw that gun... I got shaken up, I turned into the Sinon of the real world... I couldn't do anything...
You: What does that gun haft to do with anything?
Sinon: Everything...
Years ago with Young Sinon
I don't remember much of my dad, I was just told that he died in a car accident, sometime before i turned two, after that my mom and I went to live with her parents. It was actually a peaceful life despite the hole my dad left in me and my mom... but then one day... that piece was shattered...
I was in a bank with my mom... then this man... dressed in all black and wrinkled clothes entered the bank... he gave me bad vibes... and then...
Burglar: *he smashes the bag and takes out a gun* the money... PUT THE MONEY IN THE BAG AND DON'T CALL THE POLICE OR I'LL SHOOT! *he pushes my mom*
My mom: Igh!
Young Sinon: Mom!
Burglar: NOBODY MOVE OR I'LL SHOOT!
Bank person: S-sir please-
"Bang!"
Young Sinon: Igh!
The sound was loud... it caused a buzzing in my ears.
Burglar: I TOLD YOU NOT TO MOVE!
This woman, she was trying to calm the man down but he pointed directly at her. She was terrified. But he made matters worse... he pointed the gun at my mom and I... just reacted.
Burglar: GIVE ME THE MONEY NOW OR I WILL SHOOT-GAAAH!
I bit his hand as hard as i could, drawing his attention away.
Burglar: GET OFF OF ME YOU LITTLE BRAT!
He shoved me to the wall and his gun fell from his hand, I had to get it.
Burglar: GIVE ME BACK MY GUN!
He and I fought over the gun, he was trying his best to take it away from me but he pointed the barrel to himself.
Burglar: GIVE ME BACK MY GUN OR I'LL-U-uhh-u-uhh...
He was holding his weist as blood drip out... I didn't even hear the gunshot... but he didn't stop fighting.
Burglar: You brat... give me back my gun...
Young Sinon: AAA-AAAAH!
"Bang!"
The impact of the shot was so great it made my body get pushed back... I shot him a second time, this time in his elbow. But... he didn't stop!
Burglar: Gaaaa-aaa-aaah! Give... it... back!
Young Sinon: AAAAAAH!
"Bang!"
I shot one last time at him... directly at his head... I could see his face... his horrible bloody face...
Everyone looked terrified at me... including my own mother... as I stared at my hands, still holding that gun... the same gun Death gun was wielding... all covered in blood... blood that reached my knees... blood that was in my hands...
Young Sinon: Gh-gh-ghiiigh! Gigh... AAAAAAAAAAH!
Present moment
Sinon: Ever since that day... I couldn't bare to see a gun... everytime I did, I saw that man... it was like him haunting me, reminding me of what I did back in that day...
Everyone: ...
Sinon: I was scared everyday, everyone called me a murderer... I hated it... I hate it so much... there are even people who pick on me, reminding me of what I did that day and use that to their advantage... they know I can't stand it...
You: *I Sigh* I know that feeling... people don't know what I did... but I often have nightmares of that night...
Sinon: (You)... I think that is the reason I wanted to get close to you...
You: Hmm?
Sinon: You made a mistake like I did... but you still manage to fight through... I want to know how... I just want to be like you.
You: Sinon, you can't.
Sinon: huh?
You: you can't be like me because I am just one me. You need to be yourself.
Sinon: but the real me is a coward... I need to a new Sinon.
You: Sinon... you can't runaway from your problems...
Sinon: what?
You: You did something horrible, I get it... but you can't go on with your life thinking that if you erase who you are, it will somehow make everything disappear because it won't... you killed someone... and that is not changing, ever.
Sinon: Igh...
You: You cannot change what you did... but you can change how you feel. how you wish to gith it, how you wish to make things right. And besides, I don't think your a murderer.
Sinon: How can you say that? I killed someone.
You: Yes... but it was a bad person.
Sinon: So? What difference does it make?
You: I am not saying it justifies what you did... but it did save lives.
Sinon: What?
You: if you hadn't take that gun away from him, your mother and everyone else in that bank could have died, you included. He wasn't going to show restraint because you were a kid, he was going to kill you, had you given him that chance... and you didn't, you stepped in and stopped him from taking another life. Who knows how many lives you saved that day. My point is, you did bad thing but that does not make you a bad person. Sometimes we do wrong things for the right reasons.
Kirito: (You) is right Sinon, had you not taken that gun away from him, he would have killed your mother. You saved her, you saved so many people that day.
Sinon: Damn it... I just don't understand you two... I DID SOMETHING HORRIBLE AND YET HERE YOU ARE BY MY SIDE!
Rei: *she stared with confusement*
Sinon: I hate you both... WHY DO YOU GUYS HAFT TO MAKE ME FEEL IMPORTANT! I HATE YOU GUYS! I HATE YOU-I HATE YOU-I HATE YOU-I HATE Yoouu...
Sinon then begins to sob with her head burrying in her legs, I get beside her and hug her gently.
You: I understand how you feel... I was in the same spot as you were you know... that day on the 20th floor.
Look back on chapter 16 of Rise of the Integral Factor
You: So... just let it out, keep cursing and crying at us untill you feel all your anger and regret out of your mind.
Kirito: Don't worry, were right here with you.
Rei: Sinon... my master and Kirito wish to help you... and so do I.
Sinon: Igh... WAAAAAAAAAAAH!
Sinon continued to snob so hard her eyes watered down like waterfalls, for the first time ever, I saw Sinon express her true emotions.
After a while, her sobs became sniffles and then silence.
You: Feeling a bit better?
Sinon: Yeah... a little better... thank you all.
Kirito: what are friends for?
Sinon: (You)... I need to know... how did you got over it? That night, how were you able to keep fighting?
You: I didn't.
Sinon: Huh?
You: there is no way i will be able to forget that night. It was the most intense, most scariest night of my life... and the lives I took that day... has never been able to move on from me. I always blame myself for doing that... always every single second of every day... but thats okay. I may have done something bad but... if I didn't do something to stop them then who knows what would have happened, I could have died and they would have run off with some crazy expirement for war efforts or worse... I always blame myself for sticking down to their level but I never let it get pass me... because that way, I can see it as a way of not letting go of my true purpose... to love and protect the people I love, the people I consider family now. That includes you Sinon... I am sorry for what happened... but you are not alone here, you got friends who are willing to stick beside you and as if that wasn't enough, some of them crossed the same line you and I crossed.
Sinon: I...
You: Don't worry... we understand, we know you still have a long journey... but you don't haft to face that journey alone... we are a team and as of right now, we are the only ones who we can trust.
Rei then sits beside the opposite side of Sinon.
Rei: Sinon... I know what you are feeling right is dreadfulness... but my master and Kirito have stick beside you all these days, I've seen them fight so many strong monsters to keep you safe. I believe they really care about you. And so do I.
Sinon: A mere AI, worried about me... seems like I required such big care.
You: Hey, don't forget Yui, she is a psychologist.
Sinon: Yeah... I honestly don't know what to think anymore... all this time, I thought that if I tried my best ti become the strongest... i'd be able to move on from what happened... but a part of me, deep down always said... that was impossible. There is no undoing what is done.
You: No there isn't... but there is a doing to the future and it starts when you decide to take action.
Rei: Sinon, my master believes in you. Shouldn't you believe in yourself?
Sinon: its easier said then done. Haven't you always wanted to do something but never had the strength or knowledge to do so.
Rei: Uh...
Rei looked at Sinon with a surpised expression, almost like as if she knew what she was talking about.
Sinon: I don't know, I guess I just lost my train of thought... I honestly don't even remember why I was angry.
You: You were just upset, you finally got your anger out and opened up. It helps.
Sinon: Let me guess, you've been in this situation before.
You: Hey, it's not something to easily open up.
Sinon: *she chuckles* I know, I know... I'm sorry everyone.
Everyone: Huh?
Sinon: For not being honest with you guys... and for messing up earlier.
Kirito: Don't worry about it, we just haft to focus on the now.
Sinon: You mean with Death gun?
You: What other is there to focus on? We need to figure who he is, how he got here and how he is killing the other players.
Kirito: As far as we know, the players are using an Amusphere, which is designed to be a hundred percent more safer than the Nervegear, so killing a player in game is impossible to kill IRL.
You: Actually, there is something interesting I noticed.
Sinon: What?
You: His handgun, he mainily used it on his targets... but what is the assault rifle for?
Kirito: Hmm... now that you mention it, he does only uses the handgun on his victims, so why would he need a rifle?
Everyone:...
Kirito: wait, before he was going to shoot pale rider I noticed something... he made a cruz with his hand as soon as the camera was facing him and his gun.
You: Even so, that doesn't explain why the players are dying... the only thing I can think about is that he does his killing in the real world.
Sinon: But how would that even be possible? I mean if your right, he'd had to get the players real life information to do it. All that stuff is secure.
You: But what about the consoles? The ones we used to join BoB, those things asked for personal information, such as phone number, street adress and details.
Kirito: Oh yeah your right, its also an opened space area, nobody has any privacy.
Sinon: But if he do that, he would haft to be near someone shoulder and surely they would have notice him if he was doing so.
Kirito: he could have been using a scope or binoculars.
Sinon: that's breaking etiquette, he get his ass kicked out of the game for that.
You: But what about his invisibily cloak? He'd be able to turn invisible and stand near the player and not get caught.
Sinon: Well that be the most plausible thing to happen but there is still a flaw in your theory, how would he kill the players IRL if he is logged in game?
You: That would be impossible to do... unless if he wasn't alone in it.
Kirito: So what if... he has a partner?! Think about it, one Death gun plays as the avatar in here while the other does the dirty work and kills the player.
Sinon: Uh! Okay but how would he even get in, there would be people and need a key.
Kirito: As far as the victims go, they were living alone and were also living in older buildings, the locks used for their doors were probably first gen, not very secure nowadays.
You: Let us not forget, they were both dived in GGO when it happened, their minds did not know what was going on in the real world so the culprit could have taken his time entering the apartment and they'd never know.
Sinon: Hmm... wait, what was the cause of their deaths.
You: it was heart failure.
Sinon: So if it was a heart failure, how did they manage to do that without the cops and investigators figuring it out?
Kirito: They probably used some kind of drug to make their hearts fail, that's one way.
Sinon: Okay but someone should have found evidence of it, a mark or something.
You: their bodies were pretty decomposed so it was hard to tell, plus they were hardcore gamers, hardcore gamers are known to be players who play these kinds of games day and night, not worrying about their health and status, so a hardcore gamer dying form a heart attack isn't all that rare. The cops simply brushed it off.
Sinon: I don't believe it, they'd actually do that?
You: well something like that doesn't surprise me, when the police investigated the incedent of the explosion I caused, they brushed it off as a gas leak accident as well.
Sinon: My god... I just don't get it, why would they do this?
You: I once told this to Silica, RPG games are sometimes a base in what you view yourself as. In Death guns mind, he actually thinks and believe that he is a feared real life and in game murderer. There are times in where I believe I am actually a hero too, a knight in shining armor as they say.
Rei: Of course you are master! You are the mightiest knight in all of GGO!
You: Hehe, thanks Rei, though it sounds a little corny coming from you...
Sinon: I mean if we are going with that logic, I can understand, there are times in where I actually feel like a sniper not a gamer.
Kirito: Same for me, there are times in where I actually feel like a swordsmen.
Sinon: hang on, do you guys think that the guy doing the killing a red player too? Maybe they were both in LafCogh.
You: I don't know about that, I mean all the members of LafCogh should be dead by now since PoH killed them all... which also brings my biggest question, how is a SAO survivor in another game from a guild that their leader killed?
Kirito: What also makes me wonder was how did they coordinated the killings? How are they so precise about it?
You: Well the event is being livestreamed, all the other guy would haft to do is pay attention to Death guns moves.
Kirito: Wait, that's it! Maybe that's what that sign he does with his hand stands for, it's a signal to let his partner know that the bullet is ready.
You: loading up, aiming, on trigger, target on sight and then the bullets fired...
Sinon: The bullet that kills you... I am not sure if we figured it out, but do you guys have a plan?
You: All I can think about... is taking him head on, I wan't answers from him...
Sinon: If I didn't know you, I'd say that you are reckless but since I do... i'd say thats pretty much your move. But we can't hide in this cave forever, the scan is about to come and if the players figure out were here, we might as well be sitting ducks. Just a matter of time before someone tosses a grenade in here.
Kirito: yeah, I guess we should get moving.
Rei: Master...
You: Yes rei?
Rei: I... honestly don't know what I am supposed to do.
You: Oh yeah, I guess you don't know what exactly is going on... I will explain everything to you in detail later, for now *I hold her shoulders* I need your help... now more than ever, I need you to help me defeat the strongest player here so I can become the strongest, think you can do that?
Rei: Master... I will always be by your side, and if your orders are for me to help you defeat this player... then I will obey, because you are my one and only master.
You: Rei... thank you.
Rei then kneels down on both her legs and holds both of my hands as she smiles wholesomely.
Rei: Your welcome master. What is your plan?
You: Honestly, I got nothing...
Kirito: heres what I think, on the next scan, (You) and I will set outside so it can pick us up, that way Death gun will come to us. He'll probably keep his distance and use his sniper to take us out. Once he takes his first shot, we'll know where he is and Rei and Sinon will be able to pinpoint his location and take him out. Rei's got very sharp eyes so I am positive she won't miss her shots.
Sinon: Are you guys cool with being the decoys?
You: We've faced Laughing coffin in the past, at this point were just playing old school.
Sinon: *she sighs* Okay but I am warning you guys, if he takes either of you out with that rifle, i'm gonna be pissed.
You: Don't worry, besides I promised i'd give you the fight you wanted and I am not backing out on that.
Sinon: Good, because there is no way you are backing out at all-
Kirito then leans in closer to me and Sinon.
Kirito: I think we should be quiet.
Kirito then points up and right above us there is a circle gliding above.
You: What is that?
Sinon: Dang it, we should have been paying attention.
Kirito: What is that? Can it kill us?
Sinon: It's a livestream camera, usually it shadows the players on the battlefield but at this far off of the match there are barely any players still alive it must have found its way in here.
Kirito: Then could it have been hearing our entire conversation?
Sinon: Nah, for it to hear us we'd haft to be shouting at the top of our lungs. So, wave to the audience, unless... you two got a special guest you don't want seeing this.
You: If anyone should be worried, I'd say its me...
As I say that, both Kirito and Sinon see the issue I am refering to. Kirito looks like a girl and is way too close to my right shoulder, Sinon is laying basically her entire body on my left side and Rei is practically sitting herself on my legs.
You: If people see this they might think...
Kirito: *he smirks* Oooh? *he grabs my arm* what's wrong babe? Don't you like it when they see us showing our love? *he says with his feminine voice*
You: D-Dude, what are you doing? *I say with a flushed face*
Kirito: Come on, who cares if a bunch of people see? Don't they derserve to know about our love.
Rei: M-Mr. Kirito, I ask that you don't get too close to my master, you are making him uncomfortable.
Kirito: Oh but he likes it, don't you baby?
You: Dude, stop talking like that!
Rei: D-Don't get too close to him!
Rei and Kirito were now just mere inches from my face, Sinon was the only one composed but that did hot help make the situation better.
You: Sinon, aren't you going to do something about it? Aren't you afraid that people might get the wrong idea?
Sinon: So what? I don't care what they think, guys in this game are dorks, if they think I am in a relationship then they will stop picking on me.
You: But this relationship looks polyamorous which I find to be offensive and a Sin.
Kirito: What's wrong? Are you not happy with having all three of us?
You: If you continue to talk like that, I swear I will kick you in your mini Kiritos.
Kirito: Well maybe next time you'll think twice before making things up like you did before.
You: Is that what this is all about? I at least did it fair to you, this however makes me seem like a player.
Sinon: Oh? But with so many girls chasing after you, I thought you would have gotten the memo by now.
Rei: Huh? Having so many girls? Master, are you perhaps... a womanizer?
You: R-REI! Come on, you guys are like making me off as the bad guy, you know I don't mean anything bad by it!
Sinon: But playing with so many girls's hearts, it's not pretty gentlemen like.
You: I never asked for it, it just happened. I already confess my feelings, how is it my fault that this drama doesn't stop.
After a few seconds, the circle disappears.
Sinon: Oh finally. We better get ready, we got at least two minutes until the next sattelite scan. I'll set out from here, when you two are ready, fire up your terminals and let me know when he's close.
Kirito: Hmm...
Sinon: What's wrong? It's too late to change the plan now.
Kirito: No it's not that, I was just thinking... about Death guns real handle here, the only name we didn't recognize is Sterben.
You: That must be the name he is using... why go with that name though?
Kirito: Eh, I wouldn't think about it. Let's get going.
You: Rei, you head out north west and use your eye focus part to pinpoint his exact location. Don't use your mini guns, they won't be effective at such a long range... use this.
I then hand over Rei the first gun I gained when I entered GGO, it might be a starter gun but when use correctly, it only takes one bullet.
You: Think you can do it?
Rei: I don't think, I am artificial inteligence. I will do it.
You: (That's onlt half right) Alright. Let's head out.
Kirito and I begin to exit the cave and Sinon shouts from the back.
Sinon: Be careful you two.
Kirito gives a thumbs up and I give a piece sign.
Kirito: So the plan is for us to be the decoy... think that was the best goal?
You: Too late to be thinking that, in all honesty I think we could have at least come up with a strategy to take him by surprise instead of him coming to us. Though looking at LafCogh past experience I don't think there would have been an affective method. They may be psycopaths but they are still smart, we can't underestimate them.
Kirito: Yeah, I at least know that we can do it if we stick together, partner.
Kirito then puts a fistbump in front of me and I deliver it back.
You: Right, let's review the map.
Kirito then takes out his terminal and the map is displayed, showing 8 players still alive.
You: Looks like were alone for now, there is nobody near us.
Kirito: 31 players started, 24 are out. That leaves seven of us. You, me, Sinon, Yamikaze and Death gun, that's 29. Pale raider makes it 30.
You: Wait, I may be terrible at math but that doesn't add up... were missing a player. Did Death gun murder someone else after he killed Pale raider?
Kirito: I don't know... It's not like we know where is partner is targetting.
You: Wait... I remember that right before he was going to shoot you guys... he was still using is handgun on me... actually on all of us. Why would he use his handgun on us when he knows that the rules are that his partner must take the killing blow right after he shoots his target... there is no way he could be targetting us.
Kirito: maybe he did it to intemidate us, making think and believe that if we get shot, we'd die in real life.
You: Maybe... wait... Kikuoka said that he has you and me secured in secret facility with a nurse watching us, leaving us assured that nothing bad would happen to us... but not Sinon. She might still be in the hospital.
Kirito: Considiring that Death gun's partner needs a drug to implant on his victims in order to kill them... it could be possible that he gets the drug from a hospital.
You: What if... Death gun used the gun on us to make us believe that his gun can actually take a life away but in reality... he might have been targetting Sinon.
Kirito: She would be vulnarable. I don't think I would want to know, we need to take him out fast.
You: Guess we need to headout.
With what we've gathered, it's clear that we were missing something from this mystery. With our heads trying to wrap around it, it's hard to understand the method Death gun is using, just the fact of him being here is confusing enough.
You: I am just worried that if our theory is right about Death gun having a partner, he might have more than one partner. I mean if he has multiple targets in just one battle field, his partner would either be a hast runner or a fast driver, I mean what are the odds of just one partner being at a second place at the same location.
Kirito: There must be something we are missing from here... wait a second. I just remembered, we are not just here to stop Death gun but to also retrieve the next piece of your fluct-thingy. Could he be using that to kill the players?
You: I doubt it, I mean it's just a copy of my soul, how could it stop a heart? Plus if it were, I'd be able to sense it.
Kirito: Hmm...
Rei and Sinon must be already in position, all I can hope is that they are both ready for when Death gun makes his move. I am a little bit concerned about Yamikaze though... for him to have been able to survive this long, he must be pretty strong, plus he was in that live stream with XeeXeed.
Meanwhile with Sinon
Sinon: I can see them...
(You) and Kirito were both standing still in the middle of the dessert, if they were playing normally, they'd be easy targets which of course is the point in this case.
I just can't believe that (You) was able to break me out of my shell like that, he has always been able to pull my strings. I think that's another reason as to why I... I fell in love with him.
Sinon: *I smile* you dork... you better stay alive. You owe me that fight.
"Swoosh...!"
Sinon: Huh?
I heard a blast through the field and then used my scope to see what it was. A formal player from the last BoB, Yamikaze, a player that relies mostly on AGI and carries an assault rifle, reflexis so fast, he'd be able to give even (You) a run for his money, if he takes either (You) or Kirito out, the plan could fail...
Sinon: he is running really fast... I could try to aim for his legs but... if I miss this shot, the plan will fall apart and (You) and Kirito will be in danger, they are depending on me...
Meanwhile back with us
You: Hey... I've been wondering... who is Death gun? I mean, which member of Laughing coffin is he?
Kirito: I've been wondering that too, for what I know is that he must have been one of the top ranking members.
You: As far as I remember, PoH had three to four to five right hand men, those players are the ones that not only crossed the line but also give PoH lots of valuable information about their victims, god knows how many we couldn't save.
Kirito: But which one out of all them?
You: Hmm...
It was quiet... too quiet. As it was, it was like my senses were sharper, like my mind was connecting to everything around me... the sound of water drops dripping... the sound of sand being moved and crushed... the sound of...
"Swooosh..."
You: BULLET FIRED!
Out of nowhere, my body reacts and pushes Kirito out of the way as a massive sand explosion is triggered from a bullet. In the distance was a small cave and from there a red line was in my field of vision.
You: Igh!
Activitating my photon sword I deflect the incoming bullets and begin running.
You: he's over there run!
Kirito: On it!
Kirito and I dash through the sandy hills deflecting bullets and running at high speeds, the bullets were hot and hard, I could tell it was from a high powered rifle.
Meanwhile with Sinon
The guys made a run for it and I had my eyes on yamikaze who took cover right after that bullet made impact, he was hiding behind a bricked wall... but the wall was in bad shape.
Sinon: Bingo...
"BANG!"
The bullet penetrated the wall and from there.
Yamikaze: Uh! HUUUU-!
His eyes widen in shock and by the time he noticed the bullet, it was too late, the bullet opened a wide wound on his chest and the dead sign appeared above him.
Sinon: Got him... now I need to focus on them.
With my scope focusing on (You) and Kirito, I see them dashing through the sandy hills, their speed was impressive, not to mention that they were deflecting the bullets everytime they got closer.
In the distance I saw him... he has his guard down.
Sinon: Gotcha.
Focusing on his head, the bullet line appears and in an instant he focuses on me.
Sinon: Uh!
Death gun: "Pew!"
Sinon: "BANG!"
The bullets are fired and the bullet coming at me pierced through my scope and mine pierced his barel, destring his rifle.
Sinon: alright. I've done my part, the rest is up to you two.
Meanwhile with us
You: Not exactly as planned but we still got this, come on!
With Death gun disarmed now, we had a chance to take him on... or so we thought.
Death gun got up and then unsheath a weapon.
You: Igh! *I backflip away* Kirito!
Kirito: RAAAAAA!
Kirito attempts to slash him but Death gun stabs him with what seems to be a very thin sword... no, it was an Estoc.
Meanwhile in SAO
Koharu: Uh!
Lisbeth: That must be him, they got him cornered!
Silica: But look, he hurt Kirito with something!
Sanya: What is that?
Asuna: An Estoc? Oh... that's right, one of the Laughing coffin members were experts with an Estoc! But who was it?
Meanwhile in the real world
"Beep-beep-beep"
You: "heavely breathing"
Kirito: "Heavely breathing"
Mom: are they alright? What's going on?
Nutse Natsuki: Don't worry, they are not in any physical damage, there heart rate are just spiked up.
Mom: What's going on? Why are they like this?
Nurse Natsuki: Turn on the livestream, maybe something is happening.
As my mom turns the TV on, they both see me and Kirito facing Death gun.
Mom: who is he?
Nurse Natsuki: he must be the murderer they are after.
Mom: Oh my goodness... isn't there something we can do?
Nurse Natsuki: I'm afraid with their heads being forced on the Nervegear, all we can do is watch.
Mom: Rrr... Sterben? Isn't that misspelled for Steven?
Nurse Natsuki: it isn't... it's a medical term, we use it when a patient dies, it's German for Death.
Mom: Death...? No...
Meanwhile in GGO
Kirito: Well, that's an unusual weapon. Who would have thought that there were medal swords in GGO. If I had known I would have gotten one.
Death gun: You should have done your homework, Black swordsman. You can create one using the gun/sword creation skill.
You: Yeah, I think I would remember someone telling me that.
Death gun: You two still seem to be stuck in SAO, here you are using swords in a gun world, I bet you two still think your heroes from another world.
You: Your one to talk, I bet you still think you are a member of Laughing coffin.
Death gun: I did not ask for the spotlight, I only needed to get your attention.
You: Attention?
Death gun: Come on, surely you are curious. How in the hell is a Pkiller free from SAO? Much less in a diffirent game and alive. How is it that he is still taking lives in game? These questions must have been haunting you guys since you got here.
Kirito: Oh you have no idea. We couldn't care less if you are still alive, we are just here to stop you from killing more people.
You: no matter where you guys go, we will never stop stopping you guys's evil plans for taking innocent lives!
Death gun: You two have always been a pain in the ass for us. Exploiting every loophole, dodging ever obstacle. Destroying every plan our leader had.
You: Oh, well sorry for doing the right thing. In case you've been wondering, we've already figured out how you killed XeXeed and the others.
Death gun: Oh? Please tell.
Kirito: It wasn't the power of the black star, much less your abilites. You used that metamaterial optical camoflage cloak to look up the addresses on the terminals at the governors office.
You: Then you had a co-conspiritor break into their appartments, had them inject a drug that made their hearts stop, making it look like that gun you have killed them but in reality it's just for show. That gun can't kill anyone.
Kirito: Like we said, we don't care if you are still alive or not and if you are, the ministry of internal affairs has the data match of every SAO characters real name and address, they will exploit all the crimes you have comitted and make it known to the public.
You: We have a local collegue of ours that will make sure of that, you along with the other LaughCof members will face justice for your crimes!
Death gun: ...I'm impressed, however you still have not completely figured it out yet. You don't even know my name and without it, there is no way you will power of dominion over me. You can't stop me.
You: yeah? *I point my sword at him* Try us punk!
Death gun: Hmph!
Kirito: igh! "SHWWIIING!"
Kirito's sword along with his collide and creates a small shockwave between us and then the sharp blade penetrates my lower torso.
You: Augh! *I backaway*
Death gun: *he chuckles* Oh yes, just like old times.
You: (I gotta remember his name... just like old times? Did we face each other before the raid?)
Death gun: Not bad right? This thing is made from the most sturdiest metal you can get here in GGO. It's metal comes from an abandoned space battleship.
Death gun then uses high sense of speed to launches multiple penteation on me and Kirito. I on the other hand manage to block a few if not all of his attacks, Kirito on the other hand wasn't looking that great.
Death gun: Mweehehehee!
Death gun's sense of movements was impressive, besides our best efforts and agilitly skills, Death gun was able to not only keep up with us but also land hits on us, Kirito and I were slashes with red marks starting to appear on our bodies.
You and Kirito: Reaaaa!
"clank-clank-clank-clank"
All the livestream cameras were focused on us as our battle with swords got everyones attention. The sound of sword against swords echoed through the field and both me and Kirito were only getting pushed back.
He's powerful.
You: Wow, he's good.
Meanwhile in SAO
Leafa: It's not looking too good for him.
Eydis: That guy is fast, I can't even see his sword.
Agil: there'd be no doubt he was one of LaughCof top gang members.
Yuna: I am not sure how much they can last, they are fighting together but are still getting pushed back.
Sanya: Come on, your stronger than this... don't disapoint me now.
Koharu: (You)...
Meanwhile in GGO
Sinon: If only I had my scope, i'd have a better view...
As Sinon used her advanced eye sight, she spotted another shadow approuching?
Sinon: Huh? Another player...? *I look closer* No... its...
You: HREAAAA!
My attack gets parried and then mutliple stab wounds appear on my body.
"Bang!"
Death gun: Hmm?
"Bang-Bang-Bang!"
Rei: Master!
You: Rei!
Rei kept firing but Death gun actually managed to deflect her bullets.
Rei: Igh! "Bang!-Bang!-Clink" Oh no, out of ammo!
Death gun: *He chuckles*
Rei: Hrrmm... *she throws the gun away* I won't let you HURT MY MASTER!
Rei then begins running towards Death gun with eyes filled with determination.
You: Rei, what are you doing?!
Rei: HEAAAAAA!
Death gun: Hmph!
Death gun's Estoc pierced through Rei and Rei pushed in harder, getting real close to Death gun.
Rei: initiating ARC EMP Detonation protocal E-123!
You: R-Rei NOOOO-
Rei's body begins blowing up steam and then...
"KAAAA-BOOOOOOOM!
You: REEEEEI!
To be continued...