Crossover Fan Fiction / Sailor Moon Fan Fiction ❯ Sailor Moon Online: Hollow Fragment ❯ Antics of the Clearers ( Chapter 17 )

Well, we are getting closer to the end of the ‘Hollow Area’ phase of the story, everyone. And I’m hoping that it is going to be a ‘grand finale’ as we continue on to end this AU story of my Sailor Moon Online fanfiction. Now, as you may expect, this story will contain Usagi/Mamoru AKA Serena/Darien, Kirito/Asuna, Dai/Akari AKA Davis/Kari, and Minako/Takashi AKA Mina/TK romances. I’m not sure about the other romances, but with the knowledge of a sequel to Hollow Fragment, ‘Sword Art Online: Lost Song’, I have quite a few ideas for the future, folks.

 

I DO NOT OWN Sailor Moon, Sword Art Online, Accel World, Digimon series, Yu-Gi-Oh R/GX/5Ds/Zexal/Arc-V, Kingdom Hearts, One Piece, Final Fantasy, Code Lyoko, Transformers, and anything/anyone that comes from these and other stories that end up in this fanfiction! Sailor Moon is owned/licensed by Naoko Takeuchi and its various studios and publishers and Sword Art Online is owned/licensed by ASCII Media Works, A-1 Pictures Inc., and its various directors/publishers including Reki Kawahara and Tomohiko Itō!

 

Warning: This story contains intense violence, blood, possible gore, death, mild to explicit suggestive themes, including mind-control and brainwashing, mild to explicit bad language, and mature adult themes/situations!

 

Second Warning: Some to a lot of OOC (Out of Character) actions and mannerisms in this whole story!

 

Sailor Moon Online: Hollow Fragment

 

Chapter 17: Antics of the Clearers

 

January 3, 2025, Floor 76, Arc Sofia

 

Within Arc Sofia, Usagi and Kirito are going up to Sinon’s room within Agil’s inn/shop with Usagi glaring at him.

 

Usagi tells Kirito, “Asuna looked pretty embarrassed when I had mentioned about your new house, Kirito.”

 

Kirito responds, nervously, “Maybe she was excited about it, Usagi.”

 

Usagi responds, with a glare, “Excited, huh? Doesn’t seem that way to me, Kirito.”

 

Kirito becomes really nervous and he says, “Ah, we’re here!”

 

Usagi tells Kirito, “Then doesn’t get you off the hook buster!”

 

Kirito thinks in his mind, nervously, “Oh, rats!” Kirito knocks on the door and he asks, “Sinon, are you there?” There isn’t any answer and after Usagi knocks on the door, Kirito says, “I don’t think she is in.”

 

Usagi asks, “Where did she go?”

 

Kirito and Usagi went back downstairs, meet up with Asuna, and after telling what happened, Asuna asks, “Sinon-chan isn’t in her room?”

 

Usagi says, shaking her head, “No.”

 

Kirito says, “We were thinking of training with her, but she isn’t here.”

 

Asuna looks in deep thought and Usagi asks, “What’s wrong, Asuna?”

 

Asuna responds, “Sinon-chan has been quite depressed lately and maybe she is still thinking about what happened in the maze area recently.”

 

Kirito asks, “She went with you on exploration while we were handling Mimete and the Hollow Area, right?”

 

Asuna replies, with a nod, “That’s right, Kirito-kun.”

 

Kirito says, “Personally, I thought that with her shooting skill mastered. I thought that she could go with you.”

 

Usagi tells Kirito, “Training and actual combat are two different things, Kirito.”

 

Asuna says, “Usagi is right. And if the enemy gets close, her shooting skill will be useless, Kirito-kun. Of course, the others and I will follow up.”

 

Kirito says, “Well, it is how long range weapons work. They are best at long range and not good at close ranges. This is why long range weapon users are supported by short range ones for protection.”

 

Asuna says, “That’s right. That’s why I told Sinon-chan not to care so much. But it looks like Sinon-chan really cared about and she feels like she is a burden. I wanted to talk to her about it and that’s why I came here. I can’t help to wonder where she had gone.”

 

Usagi says, looking through her menu, “Well, this is a problem. I can’t seem to track her for some reason.”

 

Kirito says, his eyes narrowing, “That can only happen if you are in a dungeon or you have some kind of concealment item that can prevent even guild members from being able to track you.”

 

Asuna asks, “Should we be concerned Kirito-kun?”

 

Kirito responds, “I’m sure that Sinon is okay, but Usagi and I will go after her.”

 

Asuna says, “Thank you, Kirito-kun. You and Usagi-chan are the best.”

 

Usagi says, “Sinon is our friend too, Asuna.”

 

Asuna says, with a smile, “Yes, you are right, Usagi-chan.”

 

After Asuna walks away to take a breather, Usagi asks Kirito, “Where could she be?”

 

Kirito says, “I’m not sure, but let’s look around town and see if we can find her.”

 

Usagi says, with a nod, “Let’s do it, Kirito.” The two of them head off to the edge of town where they find Sinon.

 

Kirito says, “There you are, Sinon.”

 

Sinon asks, surprised, “Kirito? Usagi?”

 

Usagi says, “We were looking for you, Sinon.”

 

Kirito says, “I was actually about to ask you to train, Sinon.”

 

Sinon says, “You were asleep when I started training.”

 

Usagi asks, “Huh? When was that?”

 

Kirito asks, “When did you start training Sinon?”

 

Sinon says, “Putting that aside, I think that you and Usagi should train me in close range combat since most, if not all, combat in this game works that way.”

 

Kirito says, “Okay, but you need to take a break first. You can still feel exhausted in the game.”

 

Usagi says, with a nod, “And if you are worn out and collapse in battle, it can prove fatal.”

 

Sinon responds, “It’s not that I trained for days. I’ll be fine.”

 

Kirito says, “But Sinon, it doesn’t look like you’ve had any rest at all.”

 

Sinon says, with an annoyed look, “If you don’t want to help then go somewhere else. I need to focus.”

 

Kirito says, with a sigh, “Okay, I’ll help. I’ll be worried if I wasn’t here to help.”

 

Usagi thinks in her mind, “What was got Sinon’s panties in a twist?” Kirito and Sinon start to train in close range combat with Sinon using her dagger with Kirito using one of his swords and after a while, Sinon is thrown back by one of Kirito’s attacks.

 

Kirito says, with a sigh, “Sinon, your reaction time has fallen. It will get worse if we keep training. You need to take a break.”

 

Sinon says, “But…”

 

Usagi says, with a sigh, “It is like I said. You can’t die from overworking yourself in the game…I think. However, if you are out in the field and too worn out, you could fall easy prey to monster even if they don’t take you out in one hit. Work yourself too hard and you could put yourself and any teammates that you have in danger if you are not at one hundred percent.”

 

Kirito tells Usagi, “Says the ‘legendary White Valkyrie of SAO’, Usagi.”

 

Usagi says, annoyed, “Not helping Kirito!”

 

Kirito tells Sinon, “Anyway, the best way to train is in short bursts and rest up to refocus and rest your mind. Constant training is the worst.”

 

Sinon gains a solemn look and Usagi says, “Sinon, we just talked with Asuna a while ago.”

 

Kirito tells Sinon, “You may think that you are getting in the way, but that’s not the case. When you are in a party, you need to share combat duties in order to come out it effectively. With your long range ability, you give a party an advantage of starting the fight and causing significant damage until the enemy gets close which gives the close range fighters the best chance of defeating the rest. That’s how it works in history.”

 

Usagi says, with a smile, “That’s right, Sinon. Until now, we had only had throwing knives, boomerangs, and a few other specialties weapons that can go beyond a spear. Your ability can be a real game changer like Kirito’s Duel Wielding and especially my own Mimic and Medic abilities.”

 

Kirito asks Usagi, “Speaking of which, you never used Medic in a long time, have you?”

 

Usagi says, “Other than its enhanced Battle Healing, not really.” Usagi thinks in her mind, “Guess I’m getting more used to be a combat type of player which kind of scares me.”

 

Kirito tells Sinon, “Anyway, Sinon, it is how things work with a combination of long range fighters and close range fighters. The long range fighters can significantly damage an enemy especially when they are trapped in close range attacks and the close range fighters can help the long range ones when the enemy is too close and they can’t use their skills effectively. However, it is a kind of funny that a solo player like myself would be talking about teamwork.”

 

Sinon says, “It’s not like that. I want…I need to become strong. If I can’t fight by myself, it is completely meaningless.”

 

Usagi asks, confused, “Meaningless?”

 

Sinon says, “I think that it was fate that I came here and gained the shooting skill. I know that something drawn me here. I use my bow and shoot my enemies. I think that it is only way to save me. I’ll bury everything with a ton of bodies, no matter how many arrows that I have to shoot…in order to regain myself. Otherwise, if I can’t become strong, it is just meaningless.”

 

Sinon then runs off and Usagi yells out, surprised, “Sinon!”

 

Kirito yells out, “Where are you going? Sinon!” Usagi and Kirito run after Sinon and soon enough, they are in front of the teleport gate.

 

Usagi says, “I don’t see her anywhere.” Usagi asks, “What’s gotten into her?”

 

Kirito responds, “While most players do think of getting strong, I think that Sinon’s thinking is somewhat different than most players.”

 

Usagi asks, “What is it?”

 

Kirito responds, “I’m not sure, Usagi. There is something compelling her to be desperate to be stronger. She did mention that there was a memory that she was trying to forget and why she went and tested the counseling program in the Medicuboid that she was testing out which dragged her into SAO. Maybe she wants to become stronger in order to overcome something.”

 

Usagi asks, “What would that be Kirito?”

 

Kirito says, “That’s a good question, Usagi. Uh oh! I’ve got a bad feeling that she might have gone to other floors in order to get what she wants!”

 

Usagi yells out, stunned, “By herself! That’s insane!”

 

Kirito says, “Like we are ones to talk Usagi, but the point is that in her ‘mental condition’, it might be too dangerous. We need to find her.” Soon after, Usagi and Kirito go into the teleport gate and vanish in a flash of blue to begin their search for Sinon.

 

January 3, 2025, Floor 80, Kariana

 

On Floor 80, Usagi and Kirito are looking around everywhere in the main town, Kariana, for any sign of Sinon, but they don’t see anyone.

 

Usagi yells out, “Sinon! Sinon, where are you?”

 

Kirito shouts out, “Sinon!”

 

Usagi tells Kirito, “Kirito, I’m really worried. I can’t seem to track her at all. She could be in a dungeon.”

 

Kirito responds, “I hope not, Usagi.”

 

There is a nearby player and Usagi says, “Excuse me, sir!”

 

The player, a sword user, looks to see Usagi and he says, “Oh, the White Valkyrie!”

 

Usagi winches at that a bit and she asks, “We are looking for someone.” After Usagi gives Sinon’s physical description, Usagi then adds, “And she is using an unusual weapon for SAO. It was a bow.”

 

The player responds, “Actually, I have seen her, Valkyrie-san. I saw her head for the field and possible the maze area.” Usagi and Kirito become nervous at this and the player says, “That bow wasn’t just for show? She can really use it? I thought that there were no long range weapon here in SAO other than knives and boomerangs. How can she do that?”

 

Usagi says, with a bow, “I’m sorry, but we are in a big hurry! Thank you very much!” Usagi and Kirito then run off, but he shrugs since he feels that if the ‘White Valkyrie’ and ‘Black Swordsman’, two of the top players of SAO, are doing something important then it isn’t his business to butt in.

 

Kirito asks, “What is she thinking?”

 

Usagi responds, “I don’t know, but we need to find her and now!” Kirito nods his head in agreement as the two of them race off the dungeon area of Floor 80 hoping that Sinon isn’t in mortal danger and if she is, they aren’t too late to help her.

 

January 3, 2025, Floor 80, Dungeon

 

As they explore the dungeon of Floor 80, Usagi and Kirito are looking all over for any sign of Sinon.

 

Usagi yells out, concerned, “Sinon! Sinon, where are you? Where can she be?”

 

Just then they hear a female yelp and Kirito says, seeing a player cursor, “There!”

 

When they run over, they find Sinon, exhausted and her health is low, in which she asks, weakly, “Kirito? Usagi?”

 

Usagi says, drawing her Lunar Excelsior and her Keyblade, “Kirito, we need to hurry!”

 

Kirito responds, drawing his two swords, “Right, Usagi!” Usagi and Kirito leap into the fight in which they fight against the astral monsters, Bloody Ghost, and armored monsters, Dullahan, in which they managed to quickly take care of them.

 

Usagi asks Sinon, “Sinon, are you okay?”

 

Sinon responds, weakly, “Usagi…Kirito…”

 

Kirito tells Sinon, “What were you thinking Sinon? Why were you so reckless?”

 

Usagi tells Sinon, “Sinon, you may not be wearing a NervGear, but your Medicuboid isn’t like the ones that Mamoru-kun and the girls are using. They have some form of protection, but they can’t be absolutely sure that they aren’t in any danger. However, you don’t have that protection and if you die in here, yours could be reprogrammed to completely destroy your nervous system not just your brain!”

 

Kirito tells Sinon, with a nod, “Usagi is right, Sinon. It may not matter how bad it is, but the basic fact is that like us, you know what will happen if your health reaches zero, don’t you?”

 

Sinon says, “Of course, I know. But it may not be bad if and when it happens…”

 

Usagi yells out, stunned, “Sinon, you don’t know what you are saying!”

 

Sinon responds, “I know what I’m saying and it is better to die than to live powerless and frightened…”

 

Kirito says, “Sinon…”

 

Sinon says, “But when my HP become red and I thought that I might disappear, I became afraid…” Sinon then unexpectedly hugs Kirito and she says, with tears in her eyes, “…Fearing that my end would come…before I could do anything…I felt so sad…”

 

Kirito says, “Sinon…”

 

Sinon says, weakly, “Kirito…” Usagi and Kirito were amazed to see Sinon, someone so ‘cool’ in personally, begin so emotional, but then again, from what they remember, they had a feeling that Sinon suffered some kind of ‘great emotional pain’ long before she came to SAO.

 

Usagi says, “We’re just glad that you are okay, Sinon.”

 

Kirito says, with a nod, “Yeah.”

 

Sinon says, weakly, “Kirito…Usagi…” After she is done, Sinon says, with a blush on her cheeks, “I’m sorry that I cried.”

 

Kirito says, “You don’t need to apologize. Sinon, what happened to you in your past? It’s taboo here to ask about your real life, so, you don’t need to tell if you don’t want to.” Sinon doesn’t say a word and Kirito says, “And I also think that I can’t console you even after I heard your story. But I will help you if I can.”

 

Usagi says, with a kind smile, “Same here, Sinon. Asuna and the others will also do the same since we are all friends. So, please don’t keep your worries to yourself.”

 

Sinon says, “It is my problem. Only I can solve it. However, I’m happy that you care and thank you for saving me.”

 

Kirito says, “I made a promise that I would help and protect you.”

 

Sinon says, “Geez, I can’t believe that you said something so embarrassing.”

 

Usagi says, with a smirk, “I can.”

 

Kirito glares at Usagi and he tells Sinon, “You have to be serious around here. All we have in this world is each other.”

 

Sinon says, with a smile, “Maybe you are right.” Sinon says, with a sigh, “Anyway, my legs are still shaking so I can’t move for the moment.”

 

Kirito says, “No problem. Usagi and I will take guard until you are ready to go.”

 

Sinon replies, with a smile, “Thank you.” The three of them took it easy in the area that they were in until Sinon was ready to leave the dungeon and return to Arc Sofia.

 

January 3, 2025, Floor 76, Arc Sofia

 

Later that day, Kirito, Usagi, and Silica are together in front of the teleport gate when they are approached by an NPC.

 

The NPC, a blue cloaked male, asks, “Hey, young lady! Is that feathered dragon a tamed monster?”

 

Silica asks, surprised, “Huh? Me?

 

Kirito says, “Easy, Silica. That’s an NPC.”

 

Silica says, her eyes widening, “Yes, you’re right, Kirito.”

 

Usagi says, “It could be a quest related to Pina’s kind, Silica. We should take it.”

 

Silica nods her head in agreement and Silica responds, “Right!” Silica tells the NPC, “Yes, Pina is my important friend.”

 

The NPC responds, “I see. I remember seeing a similar dragon on floor eighty-three, but the size was different. It was much bigger than your partner.”

 

Silica asks, amazed, “A giant Pina?”

 

The NPC says, “Yeah, there is a glowing crystal near it. It looks like it is protecting that crystal. Maybe it is related to the young lady and her partner somehow.”

 

Silica says, “I see…Thank you for telling me.”

 

When NPC walks away, Usagi asks, “Could that crystal be some kind of power up item for Pina?”

 

Kirito says, “It might be Usagi.”

 

Silica says, “It sounds like it. Despite my increase in level to match the top players, it is going to be difficult for me on my own.”

 

Usagi says, with a smile, “Don’t worry, Silica. We’ll come with you.”

 

Silica asks, “Really?”

 

Usagi says, “You are part of my guild and what kind of guild leader would I be if I didn’t help my guild mates and friends? And I know that Kirito will help us.”

 

Kirito responds, with a nod, “Of course. I’ve seen Pina grow so far and I want to see how far she can go.”

 

Silica says, with a smile, “Thank you, Kirito…Usagi!”

 

January 3, 2025, Floor 83, Field

 

In the field area of Floor 83, we are inside of a forest where Kirito, Usagi, Silica, and Minako with their two dragon partners are going through the woods until they find themselves in front of a massive version of Pina.

 

Minako yells out, looking between Pina and the massive feathered dragon, “Whoa! It’s huge!”

 

Usagi says, stunned, “It does look like Pina!”

 

Kirito says, with a nod, “It does. This must be the huge feathered dragon that the NPC mentioned.”

 

Silica says, amazed, “It is so…big…”

 

Kirito says, with a smile, “I think that’s how Pina would look when she grows up.”

 

Usagi asks, drolly, “Really, Kirito?”

 

Kirito clears his throat and he says, “It looks like a first class boss monster. We had better prepare right.”

 

Silica asks, “Do we have to fight the giant Pina?”

 

Kirito responds, “Well, our main objective to get the crystal that it is protecting for Pina.”

 

Minako says, pointing to something, “You mean like that? I think that I found it.” Everyone then looks to see a group of black crystals near the giant feathered dragon.

 

Kirito says, with a nod, “Yeah, it must be. Once we get that, our work is done.”

 

Silica says, with a nod, “I see. I hope that we can get the crystal without having to fight. Even if it is so big, I can’t really fight a monster that looks like Pina.”

 

Usagi says, “Now the question is how to get Silica to the crystal without the big dragon noticing.”

 

Kirito responds, “That’s simple. You and I are going to distract it while Minako will escort Silica and Pina to the crystal.”

 

Usagi asks, shocked, “Huh?”

 

Minako says, with a grin, “Well, you and Kirito are the powerhouses of the group.”

 

Silica asks, nervously, “Do you think that we can do that?”

 

Kirito tells Silica, “Remember, it is classic fantasy stuff for an adventure to get treasure that’s guarded by a dragon. Actually, Usagi and I went with Liz on a similar quest on a lower level. I’m sure that you can handle it even without good hiding skills.”

 

Silica says, with a smile, “Okay, I understand. Kirito and Usagi don’t need to try too hard.”

 

Usagi responds, with a sigh, “We’ll try, Silica.”

 

Kirito says, “Okay, Silica. You and Minako with your dragons get ready. We’ll start this off.”

 

Usagi thinks in her mind, drolly, “Another day and another monster battle.” Usagi and Kirito get the dragon’s attention and while they do so, Minako, Silica, and their dragon partners sneak off towards the crystal. However, as they get close to the crystal, the dragon turns its attention to Minako and Silica.

 

Kirito says, nervously, “Uh oh! It’s not focusing on us!”

 

Usagi says, nervously, “Oh, crap!”

 

Silica says, focused on the crystal, “We’re almost there.”

 

Usagi yells out, “Silica! Mina-chan! Look out! The dragon is focusing on you!” The dragon roars and Minako and Silica turn to see the dragon focusing on them.

 

Minako says, nervously, “Oh, boy.”

 

Pina and her counterpart face each other and Silica says, “No, Pina! You can’t fight it since it is larger and more powerful than you!”

 

Kirito tells Usagi, “Usagi, my targeting is focusing on Pina and not the larger dragon!”

 

Usagi says, “Same here! We have to adjust our settings!”

 

Kirito says, “There is no time!”

 

The dragon roars out and Usagi asks, “Is that a breath attack motion?”

 

Kirito says, “Silica! Minako! Get out of there!”

 

Minako responds, “We’re trapped!”

 

Kirito then gets an idea and he shouts out, “Silica, the crystal! Feed Pina the crystal!”

 

Minako says, getting in front of Silica, “I’ll cover you!”

 

Silica responds, with a nod, “Right!” Silica gets the crystal and she says, putting in front of Pina, “Pina, please eat this crystal!” Pina ‘kyu’ in reply and eats the crystal in one big gulp in which nothing seems to happen for a few seconds.

 

Minako thinks in her mind, “I hope that something happens soon or we are this dragon’s dinner.” Pina then glows and unleashes a powerful offensive breath attack that slams into the large feathered dragon just when it was about to attack and it roars before it collapses to the ground!

 

Usagi yells out, stunned, “No way!”

 

Silica asks, curiously, “Is the giant Pina…?”

 

Minako responds, “I think that it is out like a light. Pina got a power boost, but not that much.”

 

Kirito says, “Silica! You and Minako got to get out of there while it is stunned!”

 

Silica responds, “Right! Let’s go, Pina!” Minako, Silica, and their two dragons rush out, but the huge feathered dragon recovers quickly from the attack.

 

Kirito says, “Uh oh. It is getting back to its feet. This time, we’re going to have to be the target.”

 

Usagi says, with a sigh, “I was afraid that you are going to say that.” Kirito uses his Throwing Knife skill to hit the dragon with a rock that doesn’t cause any real damage, but it focuses its attention on Usagi and Kirito. As soon as Minako, Silica, and their two dragons are out of the way, Usagi and Kirito quickly make their escape and rejoin them.

 

Kirito says, “Whew. What a fight.”

 

Usagi says, “No kidding, Kirito.”

 

As Minako’s and Silica’s dragon partners are chirping happily, Minako says, with a smile, “Anyway, it looks like little Pina has grown up.”

 

Silica tells Kirito, “It is thanks to you and Kirito that we got that crystal.” Pina gives a ‘kyu’ and Silica says, with a smile, “And Pina did very good too! Thank you, Pina.”

 

Kirito says, with a smile, “She did very well. A dragon versus dragon is going to be a story to tell.”

 

Usagi says, with a grin, “Let’s tell it after we get back to Arc Sofia.”

 

Minako says, with a smile, “Yeah!” Soon enough, Silica, by Kirito’s side, Usagi, Minako, and the two small dragons headed back to Arc Sofia.

 

January 4, 2025, Floor 76, Arc Sofia

 

Returning to Arc Sofia, Kirito and Usagi went into Lisbeth’s Smith Shop where they meet up with Lisbeth, Akari, and Dai.

 

Usagi asks, “What’s up, Liz?”

 

Kirito says, “Your message sounded real important.”

 

Lisbeth responds, “No kidding that it is important! We found where the ‘Sacred Fire’ is!”

 

Usagi asks, amazed, “Really?”

 

Akari says, with a smile, “Yep! We found a missing page of the ‘Book of Secrets’.”

 

Kirito asks, “Where is the ‘Sacred Fire’?”

 

Lisbeth says, showing the ‘Book of Secrets’, “Take a look for yourself!”

 

Kirito says, as he is reading the book, “Move to a furnace of fire that’s guarded by water…Based on the description, it is the floor that we are currently exploring: Floor Eighty-Four.”

 

Dai says, with a smirk, “What are we waiting for? Let’s go find it!”

 

Lisbeth says, with a nod, “I agree with Dai!”

 

Kirito says, “Okay.”

 

Lisbeth tells Akari, “Akari, please take care of the shop for me.”

 

Akari responds, “No problem. We have a lot of orders to do today.”

 

Lisbeth responds, with a smile, “I know!” Soon after, Lisbeth, Usagi, and Kirito take off for Floor 84 in order to get the ‘Sacred Fire’.

 

January 4, 2025, Floor 84, Field

 

In the ‘fields’ outside of the main town of Floor 84, Lisbeth, Kirito, and Usagi look around to see the field is barren with large pools of hot springs.

 

Usagi says, amazed, “Wow. There is a lot of hot springs.”

 

Kirito says, “I would love to enjoy a dip, but we have more important things to do.”

 

Usagi says, pointing to groups of large ant-like monsters, “And we have other problems than that. Those aren’t picnic ants.”

 

Lisbeth says, with a nod, “No joke, Usagi.”

 

Kirito says, “Well, there looks to be multiple cavern entrances, so, it isn’t going to be easy to find the ‘Sacred Fire’. I think that we should start looking.” Lisbeth, Kirito, and Usagi then venture on in which they fight through multiple ant monsters and then they fight multiple slime monsters until they find a lovely looking flame in a pristine jeweled golden bowl.

 

Usagi says, “That looks like an important flame to me.”

 

Kirito says, with a nod, “That must be the ‘Sacred Fire’.”

 

Lisbeth says, irritated, “It had better be.”

 

Usagi says, looking over herself, “Yeah, I know, Liz. This is why I hate slime monsters.”

 

Lisbeth says, with a nod, “I know, Usagi! I’m all sticky now! Not to mention that it is so hot in here.”

 

Usagi says, “HE has got to have had too much time on his hands to make it so real.”

 

Kirito says, “Yeah, let’s get back. First, we’ll need to turn the ‘Sacred Fire’ into an item…”

 

When Kirito stops, Usagi says, annoyed, “Not now!”

 

Kirito says, with a sigh, “Sorry, Liz, but we have got more trouble coming.”

 

When a massive green slime monster, a Fat Slime, which seems to be close to a Field Boss monster, appears, Lisbeth says, annoyed, “Not more slime monsters! This is getting annoying!”

 

Usagi says, annoyed, “Here we go again!” The three of them battle the Fat Smile and manage to take care of it without too much trouble, but their clothing is sticky from the slime that came from the monster.

 

Lisbeth says, disgusted, “My clothes are sticky from the slime! This is so disgusting and I don’t want to feel this way again.”

 

Usagi says, disgusted, “No joke, Liz! This is so gross! These are virtual monsters! I’m starting to wonder if he did since he had no life!”

 

Kirito says, “Anyway, let’s go back and change…” Kirito then says, “…Hot air? There is hot air coming from here.

 

Usagi asks, “Hot air?”

 

Lisbeth asks, amazed, “Hot air? Hot air coming from a place like this? Could this mean…?” When the three of them look at the area where the ‘hot air’ is coming from, they discover a hot spring and Lisbeth says, amazed, “It’s a hot spring!”

 

Usagi says, amazed, “Wow! I didn’t see this coming!”

 

Kirito says, “Let me see…”

 

When Kirito puts his hand into the water, Usagi asks, “What are you doing?”

 

Kirito responds, “Testing the water, Usagi.” Kirito then says, “Ah, perfect. This is just right. Since there is no enemy at the moment, you can go over there and I can go over here.”

 

Lisbeth asks, with a blush, “Kirito, are you thinking of going into the hot spring?” Kirito then goes behind a rock and shortly thereafter, there is a loud ‘splash’.

 

Kirito says, with a breath of relief, “Man, it feels good…”

 

Lisbeth yells out, with a blush, “Hey, you went into the hot spring!”

 

Usagi says, with a nod and sigh, “Yep, he did.”

 

Kirito says, from behind the rock, “Of course. I felt awful from the stickiness.”

 

Lisbeth says, with an irritated tone and blush on her cheeks, “I feel awful too! Let’s go back to town!”

 

Kirito replies, “Just hold on, Liz. I feel great.”

 

Lisbeth retorts, “Are you an idiot? Just get out of there.”

 

Kirito replies, “Nope. It’s a waste not to enjoy it.”

 

Usagi says, with a sigh, “Oh, geez…”

 

Lisbeth asks, curiously, “Really?”

 

Kirito says, “Liz, you and Usagi should come in too. I won’t be able to see you from the rocks.”

 

Usagi says, “Kirito, it is too dangerous not to have anything equipped to a dungeon.”

 

Kirito says, “Don’t worry, Usagi. Our Search Skills will make sure that we are prepared for anything. I know that you are strong enough to protect yourself, but if you need help to keep Liz safe, I’ll be right there.”

 

Lisbeth says, with a blush, “I can take care of myself.”

 

Kirito responds, “I know, Liz. Anyway, having that slime stickiness distracting you is going to affect you in battle, so, it is best to relax, clean off, and then you will be ready for anything.”

 

Usagi says, with a sigh, “Why do you have a point, Kirito? I hate to admit, but Kirito does have a good point.”

 

Lisbeth says, with a nod, “Yeah…” Lisbeth and Usagi look at each other and Lisbeth says, sternly with the blush still on her cheeks, “You must not come to the other side of the rock!”

 

Kirito responds, “I know.” Usagi and Lisbeth then de-equip their gear and clothing, put on towels around their bodies, and go into the hot springs.

 

Lisbeth gives a sigh of pleasure and Usagi says, relieved, “Man, this is great. The girls are going to be so jealous.”

 

Lisbeth says, “Yeah.”

 

Kirito then asks, “Liz, are you and Usagi okay?”

 

Lisbeth says, with a yelp, “Don’t talk to me all of a sudden! You surprised me!”

 

Usagi tells Lisbeth, “Geez, Liz! Calm down!”

 

Kirito says, “Usagi is right, Liz. With our Search Skills, things are going to be okay.” Kirito says, splashing on his side of the springs, “Man, I was covered in that gunk.”

 

Lisbeth says, with a nod, “Same here, Kirito.”

 

Kirito says, “I never thought that this kind of feeling could replicate in SAO. Now, I have to clean off my whole body to get rid of this awful feeling.”

 

Lisbeth says, with a blush, “Yeah, the whole body…” Usagi gives Lisbeth a glare and she gives off look that says ‘What?’.

 

Just then bubbling sound is heard and Usagi thinks in her mind, “Huh?” Lisbeth and Usagi then feel something on their feet causing them to yelp.

 

Kirito asks, surprised, “Liz? Usagi? What’s going on?”

 

Lisbeth says, surprising, “This…”

 

Usagi then starts to giggle and laugh and she says, “Hey…you little…cut it out…!!”

 

Kirito yells out, surprised and a bit confused and concerned, “Liz? Usagi?!”

 

Lisbeth says, “Hey, stop that…that tickles…!!”

 

Kirito yells out, concerned and with a serious tone, “Liz! Usagi!”

 

Lisbeth shouts out, shocked and surprised, “Kirito!”

 

Lisbeth screams out and Kirito asks, “Why are you screaming?”

 

Lisbeth screams out, “I’m screaming because of you! Don’t you dare come over!”

 

Usagi yells out, “We’re all right! We’re all right! It is just the fish!”

 

Kirito asks, “Fish?”

 

Usagi responds, “There are little fishes in the water tickling our feet!”

 

Lisbeth says, in a hasty tone, “That’s right! That’s right! Stay on your side, Kirito!”

 

Kirito says, nervously, “Okay! Okay!”

 

After things calm down, Lisbeth says, “Geez, you surprised me.”

 

Kirito says, “Sorry. You and Usagi was screaming.”

 

Usagi says, with a blush, “Sorry, we were getting tickled by these little fish in the water.”

Kirito asks, confused, “Fish? There are fish in the hot springs?” Just then there is a bubbling sound and Kirito says, “Ah! They are here too. They aren’t enemy…Well, they are too small to be enemies.”

 

Usagi says, “You know, I think that Mizuno-chan told me about this…back you know.”

 

Lisbeth says, with a smile, “I know! These must be ‘doctor fish’! It lives in the hot spring and eats the dead skin off humans.”

 

Usagi says, with a nod, “Oh, yeah! I remember! They are used in a beauty care known as fish therapy!”

 

Kirito says, nodding his head, “It is an interesting creature.”

 

Lisbeth says, “It is strange to hear about, but it is even stranger to find them in the game.”

 

Usagi thinks in her mind, “Kayaba has really got to have had too much time in his hands and not much of a personal life.”

Lisbeth says, “This hot spring is good, but I like the ones IRL better.”

 

Usagi says, with a nod, “Yeah.”

 

Kirito asks, curiously, “Is it really that different?

 

Usagi asks, confused, “Have you ever been to a hot spring Kirito?”

 

Kirito responds, “Not really Usagi.”

 

Usagi retorts, “Man! Where have you been Kirito?”

 

Lisbeth says, with a nod, “No kidding, Usagi! The ‘real hot springs’ are really different! This feels like soaking in a hot water pool than a hot spring! The real hot spring makes your body feel warmer…”

 

Kirito asks, curiously, “Really?”

 

Usagi tells Kirito, with a smile, “Kirito, you really need to experience a real hot spring at least once in your life.”

 

Lisbeth says, with a smile, “Once we get back, maybe we can show you.”

 

Usagi gives a surprised look and Kirito says, “I look forward to it.”

 

Lisbeth blushes and she says, “Do look forward to it.”

 

Lisbeth blushes from the implied idea about her and Kirito and Kirito says, “It would be nice if everyone had the time.”

 

Lisbeth asks, surprised, “Huh? Everyone?”

 

Kirito says, “We’re students, so, I think that we could manage, but Agil and Klein are working adults.”

 

Lisbeth says, hiding the disappointment in her voice, “That’s what I thought. Yeah, let’s go the hot springs with everyone.”

 

Usagi thinks in her mind, “I don’t think that Liz was thinking that way.”

 

Kirito asks, hearing Lisbeth’s tone of voice, “Did I say something to make you mad?”

 

Lisbeth responds, “No, nothing.” Soon after they were done bathing in the hot spring, they put their clothing back on, after making sure that it is clean, and they prepare to venture off.

 

Usagi asks, “Ready to head back?”

 

Kirito says, “Since we are refreshed, we could continue on. Asuna told me that they haven’t found the boss room yet.”

 

Lisbeth says, with a smirk, “Same old Kirito. I guess that we can continue on.”

 

Usagi asks Lisbeth, with a sly smirk, “Not worried about Akari since she did manage to ‘outwit’ you in your deal?”

 

Lisbeth yells out, shocked, “You know about that?”

 

Usagi responds, with a smile, “Yep!”

 

Kirito asks, “Argo?”

 

Usagi replies, with a nod, “Argo.”

 

Lisbeth says, with a snort, “Now, I see why they call her ‘The Rat’.” Usagi and Kirito as the three of them then take off the explore the rest of the floor fighting off more ant monsters including a powerful Field Boss level monster known as Ant Princess and soon, they are inside of the dungeon of the floor.

 

As they enter the dungeon, Usagi says, drolly, “Just great. There are more bug monsters.”

 

Lisbeth says, with a nod, “I know how you feel Usagi.” The group ventures on, taking treasure from chests, and fighting more ant and other bug type monsters. When they reach a stairway, they bump into none other than Strea.

 

Strea says, with her classic happy smile, “Kirito! Usagi! It is nice to meet you in a place like this!”

 

Kirito asks, surprised, “Strea? What are you doing in a place like this?”

 

Strea responds, “I was looking for something, but I got tired and I’m taking a break.”

 

Usagi asks, “Looking for something?”

 

Kirito says, “Anyway, it’s dangerous to be going in the dungeon like this, Strea.”

 

Lisbeth says, with a smirk, “That’s coming from the infamous SOLO ‘Black Swordsman’.”

 

Kirito glares at Lisbeth, who smirks, and Strea asks, “If that’s the case, can I come with you, three? I promise that I won’t be in the way.”

 

Kirito says, “Aren’t you taking a break? Maybe we should head back to town.”

 

Strea responds, “I’m okay! And I’m in a hurry! So…please stay with me!”

 

Strea gives a ‘puppy dog look’ and Kirito says, with a sigh, “Okay, fine. Just listen what I have to say.”

 

Strea says, with a happy smile, “Okay! I’ll do whatever Kirito says!”

 

Lisbeth asks, with a smirk, “How much do you think that Argo will pay for this information?”

 

Kirito yelps and Usagi says, with a giggle, “Liz!”

 

Kirito clears his throat and he says, “Let’s go.” Soon after, Kirito, Usagi, Lisbeth, and Strea continue venturing on through the dungeon area and fight more of the monsters until they get to the next area of the floor of the dungeon.

 

After destroying another monster, Strea says, with a smile, “There you go! I’m not getting in the way, right?”

 

Kirito says, plainly, “You are right.”

 

Usagi says, “We never said that you got in the way.”

 

Kirito asks, “But since you are in a hurry, what are you looking for?”

 

Strea responds, “Something that will destroy this world…Maybe.”

 

Usagi asks, curiously, “Something that will destroy this world?”

 

Strea says, “Yes, so we have to hurry…”

 

Usagi thinks in her mind, “Okay, now, I’m getting worried.”

 

Kirito asks, “Do you even know what it is?”

 

Strea replies, shaking her head, “No. That’s why I need to keep looking and encounter many things. I have to protect this world.”

 

Usagi asks, curiously, “From what?”

 

Strea responds, with a smile, “Don’t know yet!”

 

Usagi asks, confused, “Huh?”

 

Strea says, with a smile, “Anyway, Kirito, you and Usagi are doing your best to complete the game! So, the two of you have to think carefully about your party members and which parties you have to team up with…”

 

Lisbeth asks, curiously, “What is this about?”

 

Strea says, “I think that Kirito needs another powerful ‘big sister’ to help him out. Usagi is good, but Kirito would do better with TWO ‘big sisters’ instead of one.”

 

Usagi asks, confused, “Huh?”

 

Kirito says, “I don’t think that anything is wrong with teaming up with the people that I already have and Usagi and I have worked well before despite us being solo players for a long time.”

 

Strea says, “No, you can’t be satisfied with what you have got now especially since I’ll be a great help to you. You need to have balance in each party, but you need a strong members that can fight solo if need be. Usagi-chan fills that requirement very well. She is a powerful solo player just like you.”

 

Usagi asks, with a quite suspicious tone in her voice, “Strea, what are you getting at?”

 

Strea says, “With Lisbeth, she needs to be less dependent on weapons and increase her physical strength.”

 

Lisbeth says, annoyed, “Hey, my muscular strength has increased quite a lot…”

 

Strea says, “Oh, sorry. You need to increase your speed more.”

Lisbeth says, “Well, speed isn’t related to being a blacksmith, so, it isn’t necessary.”

 

Strea says, “In that case, you can’t be a suitable partner to Kirito and Usagi. They are strong and fast, but not to mention that Usagi has very high agility too.”

 

Usagi says, annoyed, “Hey!”

 

Lisbeth says, “As a partner, I’m…”

 

Strea says, interrupting, “Being a partner with Kirito, you need an explicit body type like mine and having curves where it should be. You need to have an attractive body.” Strea then puts her hands on her chest area causing Kirito to blush and turn away.

 

Usagi says, annoyed, “Hey! Hey! Hey!”

 

Lisbeth says, “Being a player’s partner is not related to body type, but it is true that Kirito is a man…”

 

Usagi nearly does an anime face-fault and she asks, drolly, “Seriously, Liz?”

 

Strea says, “It will make Kirito happy if his partner is a stylish girl!”

 

Usagi says, annoyed, “No way! Kirito isn’t like that!”

 

Kirito responds, with a nod and nervous tone, “That’s right. I don’t choose my teammates based on style.”

 

Strea says, “But I’m the most suitable one for Kirito. So, Kirito! Let’s move on!”

 

As Strea walks on ahead, Usagi says, with a groan, “And Pyro complained that I was a ‘bubble head’…” They head into the next area of the dungeon where they fight off more monsters and they soon arrive at the stairway for the next area.

 

Strea then says, “Oops! I’m sorry, Kirito, but I just remembered that I need to do something today! So, goodbye for now!”

 

Kirito asks, curiously, “Are you okay with stopping looking what you are looking for?”

 

Strea replies, “Yeah, I’m okay since I’ve progressed with what I’m looking for, so, I’m okay for today.”

 

Usagi says, nervously, “Okay…”

 

Kirito asks, “Are you sure that you are going to be okay?”

 

Strea responds, “Yes, I’ll be fine. Thanks, so bye!”

 

As Strea walks off, Lisbeth asks, “Is it okay to let her walk off?”

 

Usagi responds, “It’s pointless to try to stop her. Like Asuna said: She is just like a storm.”

 

Kirito says, “We also don’t know what she is looking for. It’s Strea’s problem and there is a limit on how we can help her.”

 

Lisbeth says, with a nod, “Yeah, you have a point, Kirito.”

 

Kirito asks, “Shall we get going?”

 

Usagi says, with a nod, “Yeah!” Soon after, Usagi, Lisbeth, and Kirito venture into all-too familiar hallway and Usagi says, “This seems all too familiar.”

 

Kirito says, nodding his head, “Yeah. The boss might be up ahead. Let’s take a look.” Lisbeth nods her head and the three of them walk down the hallway until they find a pair of familiar huge and eerie doors.

 

Usagi says, “This is it.”

 

Kirito says, “We’ve found the boss’ chamber. Let’s set the crystal and return back to Arc Sofia.”

 

Lisbeth says, with a nod, “Right.” As soon as they set the location for the corridor crystal, the three of them use teleport crystal to return to Arc Sofia.

 

January 3, 2025, Floor 76, Arc Sofia

 

In the evening hours of the day in Aincard, we find ourselves at the teleport gate where Asuna is standing just in front of it surrounded by a large group of players including the Sailor Scouts, Digital Knights, and their friends.

 

Asuna says, “Thank you for coming everyone. Just recently we have found the boss’ chamber for floor eighty-four. It is time once again to challenge another floor boss.”

 

Sam comes forward and he says, “Our opponent is known as The Queen of Ant and this one is going to be tricky. From the information that we have gathered, this boss has a nasty acid attack and she has subordinate monsters with her.”

 

Takashi tells the others, “That means that we are going to need to divide our forces: One group against the boss herself and the others to keep the subordinate monsters away from the boss fighting group.”

Yamato says, “And there is the possibility a new set of minions will appear after a set of time if we don’t defeat the boss in a certain time period.”

 

Sam says, “However, it seems for the addition of the minions, this boss actually has two weaknesses: It is vulnerable to both blunt and thrust type attacks.”

 

Dai says, “That means that mace and rapier type skills are going to be needed for this fight.” Dai says, with a warm smile, “Good thing that I’ve got a talented angel with both.”

 

Akari says, with a blush, “Cut it out, Dai-kun!”

 

Taichi crosses his arms and Junpier tells him, “Don’t even think it, Taichi.”

 

Taichi says, with a sigh, “Yes, ma’am.” Yamato and Takashi smirk at Taichi and he glares at them.

 

Kirito tells Usagi, “Since you are able to use all Sword Skills with your current equipment thanks to your Mimic Skill being so high again, you can use rapier skills too. I think that you should be part of the group that attacks the boss directly while I become part of the team that focuses on the minions.”

 

Mamoru says, “That’s a good idea. The massive damage that your Duel Wielding skill does will work well for that.”

 

Usagi says, “We’re also going to need Liz too since her mace skills will come in very handy.”

 

Haruka says, “Mizuno should also go since she uses Rapier Sword Skills attacks too.”

 

Usagi says, “Kirito and I also want ask a favor of some of you, girls.” As the Sailor Scouts look at Usagi, she asks, “Can some of you stay behind and watch Sinon?”

 

Kirito says, “After what happened yesterday, I’m concerned about her.”

 

Michiru says, “Asuna told us what you told her happened yesterday.”

 

Haruka says, “I’ve got a feeling that something traumatic happened to her in the past and she is trying to find a way to overcome that trauma.”

 

Setsuna says, “I believe that you are right.”

 

Tomoe asks, “What could have happened to Sinon?”

Kirito says, “I think that it is best that we don’t ask her right now.”

 

Makoto says, with a nod, “No kidding, Kirito.”

 

Kirito says, “Anyway, we are going to need Tomoe’s help in this boss battle. Since she is a spear user, her attacks are also thrust type.”

 

Haruka glares at Kirito and Usagi tells her, “She will be just fine with me, Haruka. Don’t worry, I promise nothing will happen to her.”

 

Haruka tells Usagi, “I trust you, Dumpling.”

 

Kirito thinks in his mind, nervously, “Something tells me that I shouldn’t be thankful for that one.”

 

Michiru says, with a kind smile, “And I will be along since I am also a spear user as well.”

 

Hino says, “Okay, the rest of us will take care of Sinon and make sure that she doesn’t do anything…over the top while you are gone.”

 

Usagi says, “Thanks, girls.”

 

Kirito tells Usagi, with a smile, “You have good friends, Usagi.”

 

Usagi responds, with a smile, “Well, you are one of them, Kirito.”

 

Mamoru asks Usagi, “Are you feeling all right, Usagi?”

 

Usagi responds, with a smile, “I haven’t fully recovered from my shock…Mentally, anyway. However, this just makes me more determined to find him and make him answer why he did this. He knew long before he committed SAO and I need to know why this was more to him than his family.” The others nod their heads in understand, but her beloved prince and her best female friends/sisters can’t help to worry about her when they learned this information about her ‘connection’ with Kayaba.

 

January 3, 2025, Floor 84, Dungeon

 

Soon enough, we find the boss raid party entering the boss chamber where they find the boss, The Queen of Ant, a huge violet and dark red queen ant type monster, where she is flanked by three huge black ant monsters, Queen’s Guard, surround her.

 

As the battle begins, Kirito shouts out, “Team A with me! Let’s get those minions!” Immediately, a group of players from the raid group, including Dai and Mamoru, take off and attack the minions of the boss monster while another half of the boss raid party including Asuna, Lisbeth, Usagi, Akari, Mizuno, Michiru, and Tomoe, are assembling against the boss itself.

 

Asuna says, with a stern and commanding tone, “Team B, prepare to battle the boss!”

 

Usagi says, with a commanding tone, “Watch out for the acid attacks and try to clamp this overgrown ant’s mouth shut!”

 

Lisbeth says, “That’s not going to be easy, girl! This ant has got one big mouth!”

 

The Queen of Ant tries to take a bite out of them, literally, but the group manages to dodge and Usagi says, “Liz, less talking and more pounding this ant into the ground!” Usagi yelps as she dodges an acid attack from the boss monster in which Team B unleashes their assault with Asuna, Akari, and Mizuno striking with their Rapier Sword Skills each of them hitting with a session of Quadruple Pain, the 4 hit Rapier Sword Skill that has an immobilizing effect on a target, but since they were in quick session, the boss monster is paralyzed.

 

Lisbeth says, excitedly, “Way to go!”

 

Michiru says, with a smile, “Our turn, Firefly.”

 

Tomoe responds, with a nod, “Right.”

 

“Dancing Spear!”

 

“Revolve Arts!”

 

Both Tomoe and Michiru hit The Queen of Ant with their own 5-hit Two Handed Spear Sword Skill combos, each, and strike a good sized blow to the currently paralyzed boss monster.

 

“Mjolnir Hammer!”

 

“Dead Intersection!”

 

Lisbeth slams the monster, hard, with a 4 hit Mace Sword Skill combo while Usagi uses a 5 hit Duel Wielding Sword Skill combo, which isn’t as damaging as Lisbeth’s combo, but she manages to inflict an attack down stasis condition on the boss monster. However, somehow, the boss monster shrugs off the paralyzing effect and The Queen of Ant is back in the fight in which three more Queen’s Guard appears.

 

Dai says, “It looks like you were about the monsters coming back!”

 

Kirito says, “We need to keep them away from the team tackling the boss!” Team A renews their assault on the new minions of the boss monster while Team B continues their hard fight against the powerful boss monster which unleashes another acid attack, but while Team B manages to dodge, Aaron of the Knights of Blood Oath, in the wrong place at the wrong time, gets hit and gets hit with a paralyzing effect.

 

Aaron gasps, collapses, and he says, weakly, “Can’t move…”

 

One of the Queen’s Guard minions manages to get close to him and upon seeing this, Kirito shouts out, seriously, “He’s hit! He can’t move!”

 

Leafa yells out, “I’ve got this big brother!” Leafa, who had joined the group as part of Team A, swoops in and manages defeat the monster before it can even inflict any damage on him.

 

Kirito tells Leafa, “Good work! Get him to safety until the paralyzing effect is done!”

 

Leafa responds, putting Aaron on her shoulders, “Right, big brother!” Leafa then starts to drag Aaron away and she says, “It’s going to be all right, Aaron-san.”

 

Aaron asks, weakly, “You are…The Black Swordsman’s sister…?”

 

Leafa replies, with a nervous smile, “Real-life, but my avatar comes from another VRMMO.” Aaron is shocked, but right now, he knows that it isn’t time to worry about as Leafa carries him away to a far corner of the room and out of the way of the fighting for the moment to keep him safe until he is no longer paralyzed.

 

Asuna shouts out, “Everyone, watch how you dodge your attacks! The other team has enough trouble taking care of the minions of the boss!”

 

Lisbeth says, “Easy said than done, Asuna!”

 

Akari says, “I’ll see if I can use my shield!”

 

Usagi says, “Don’t take risks, Akari!” The battles continues on, but it gets tougher since Team B is trying their best to dodge the attacks of the boss, however, also making sure that the boss’ attacks don’t hit the other team which results in Mizuno, Michiru, and a few others get hit and suffering paralyzing effects.

 

Tomoe says, shocked, “Michiru-mama!”

 

Usagi says, “Asuna, help them! I’ll keep that overgrown ant off you!”

 

Asuna asks, “Are you sure?”

 

Usagi says, “We don’t have time to argue, Asuna!” Asuna nods her head in agreement and leaps away with a few others to assist in the protection the paralyzed friends and comrades.

 

Akari says, “Let me help you, Usagi! Linear Barrage!” Performing the same technique that she used on the Floor 76, she hits the boss with 30 hit Rapier Sword Skill style combo that she causes massive damage to the boss, but not enough to knock it out for good. However, Usagi takes this chance to perform Eclipse, the ultimate 27 hit Duel Wielding Sword Skill combo, but while she manages to hit the boss really hard, it manages to survive in a small bit and manages to unleash a shock that knocks her and Akari, who is nearby down to the ground along with a few others.

 

Usagi thinks, nervously, “Okay, I think that we are in big trouble.” When she seems the boss looming over for a big attack, she thinks, nervously, “Really big trouble!” However, before the boss could attack, it gets a spear jammed in-between the eyes thanks to Tomoe causing the boss to shatter into hundreds of data polygons when it loses the last of its HP.

 

Tomoe asks, “Are you okay, hime?”

 

Usagi responds, as she can move since her skill ‘cool down’ period is over, “Thanks to you.” The last of the reappearing minions also vanishes and the words ‘Congratulations’ as the experience and col are distributed among the players causing plenty of them to cheer for the latest victory.

 

Mamoru goes over to Usagi and he asks, “Are you okay?”

 

Usagi responds, with a smile, “I’m okay. Not like I haven’t been down on my butt before.”

 

Akari says, “Tomoe really got the last good blow in.”

 

Tomoe responds, “I just protecting my friends and that’s it.”

 

Kirito says, “I think that plenty of the clearers feel the same way that you do, Tomoe.”

 

Soon enough, the others that were paralyzed are getting back to their feet and Aaron tells Leafa, “Thank you for helping Leafa-san.”

Leafa responds, with a smile, “No problem, Aaron-san.”

 

Asuna says, “That was a hard won victory.”

 

Kirito says, “It looked like we had the edge at first, but the boss proved that there is a reason that they are boss monsters.”

 

Usagi says, with a nod, “No kidding, Kirito.”

 

Mizuno says, “And most likely, they will get harder as we get to the top.”

 

Dai says, with a grin, “That’s something to look forward to, but if we work together, I’m sure that we can squash like that bug here.”

 

Akari says, with a smile, “This bug wasn’t exactly that easy to squash, Dai-kun.”

 

Junpier says, “No kidding, Kari.”

 

Miyako says, with a droll tone and a nod, “No joke, girlfriend.”

 

Kirito says, “Anyway, we should get to the next town and activate the teleport gate.”

 

Asuna says, with a nod, “Right, Kirito-kun.” Soon enough, the boss raid party, which had suffered no losses, assemble and leave for the next floor to activate the teleport gate to show that Floor 84 boss has been defeated the next floor is ready for exploration.

 

January 3, 2025, Floor 85, Nidola

 

In the main town of the eighty-fifth floor, Asuna comes out of the teleportation gate area of the main town of Floor 85, Nidola, after completing what’s necessary to activate the teleport gate for this floor giving access to all players below this floor.

 

Asuna tells Kirito, “I’m done with the activation, Kirito-kun.”

 

Kirito says, “That’s good.”

 

Usagi says, “Only fifteen more floors to go.”

 

Mizuno says, “We are making good progress.”

 

Kirito says, “Far better than we did back in the ‘old days’.”

Lisbeth says, with a nod, “No kidding, Kirito.”

 

On the meanwhile, Aaron shakes the hand of Leafa and he says, “Thank you for saving my life.”

 

Leafa responds, “As I said, it was no trouble. I’m glad that you are safe.”

 

Aaron asks, “So, you are the Black Swordsman’s sister?”

 

Leafa replies, with a smile, “Yeah. I really don’t look like this. This is my avatar from another VRMMO.”

 

Aaron says, amazed, “Wait! Other VRMMO? After this, I’m surprised that they came out with that kind of stuff!”

 

Leafa says, with a smile, “Yeah, the public was wary when SAO start of VRMMO, but my VRMMO is considered safe and the new Amusphere is much safer since it can’t produce the same waves that can fry a person’s brain that the NervGear can, but ‘Full-Dives’ a person just as good. And all other NervGears have been taken in by the government and trashed.”

 

Aaron says, with a sigh, “That’s a relief. That fucking monster can’t drag anyone else into this.”

 

Leafa says, with a smile, “You can see how safe Full-Dives is now when we get you home.”

 

Aaron says, with a smile, “Home. That would be nice to see.”

 

Leafa says, “Anyway, you should head back to town and get some rest.”

 

Aaron says, with a smile, “Yeah, thanks.”

 

Leafa heads off to join the others while Aaron looks back in which one of his comrades tells Aaron, “Don’t even think about, you horn dog! If she is the sister to the Black Swordsman, I don’t think that she is a ‘light-weight’.”

 

Another comrade retorts, “And ‘beater’ might actually turn into: Big brother beating your ass for looking at his hot sister like that!”

 

Aaron responds, nervously, “I wasn’t thinking about Leafa-san that way!” Aaron’s Knights of the Blood Oath comrade give off a few laughs and Aaron gives an annoyed tone as they prepare to head back to Arc Sofia and their new temporary guild headquarters to rest and prepare for the next day.

 

When Leafa rejoins the others, Usagi says, with a smile, “It seems like you have made a new friend, Leafa.”

 

Leafa says, with a smile, “Not exactly, Usagi.”

 

Asuna says, “Aaron-san is one of the most dependable members of the guild.”

 

Lisbeth says, with a sly smirk, “And one of the many people that tried to court you back in the day, Asuna.”

 

Asuna blushes from that and Kirito says, “Well, it isn’t surprising since the male and female ratios in the game are so off-balance and I remember that you had your fair share since they think that you were cute with your freckles.”

 

Lisbeth yells out, shocked and embarrassed, “Who told you that?” Usagi gives an ‘innocent look’ as she slowly walks away and Lisbeth yells out, catching this, “You did it!”

 

Usagi responds, with a nervous smile, “He is my best friend after all, Liz. Anyway, I’ll…be scouting out ahead…Bye!” Usagi then zips off and Lisbeth races off after her while plenty of the others give laughs and/or nervous smiles at the scene.

 

January 4, 2025, Floor 76, Arc Sofia

 

At the area of Arc Sofia that contains the teleportation gate, Usagi and Kirito are walking along and discussing about things until they see Asuna in front of them.

 

Usagi shouts out, “Hey, Asuna!”

 

Asuna responds, seeing Usagi and Kirito, “Kirito-kun! Usagi-chan! What are you doing here?”

 

Kirito says, “We were just passing through. We can’t help to wonder what’s going on here.”

 

Asuna replies, “I’m actually here to see something. A new guild has requested to join the front lines and I am here to meet them.”

 

Usagi asks, “A new guild, huh?”

 

Kirito says, “It feels like you are doing an interview.”

 

Asuna says, “It is nothing as serious as that.”

 

Usagi responds, nervously, “Technically, it is because if they join the front lines, they are going to be in the deadliest of situations in this nightmare.”

 

Kirito says, with a nod, “I have to agree with Usagi.”

 

Asuna says, with a sigh, “You and Usagi have a point, Kirito-kun.” Asuna says, with a smile, “Anyway, since that’s the case, why don’t you and Usagi-chan come with me? As two of the best players, your experience could prove valuable.”

 

Kirito responds, “Huh? But I’m not good at such a thing…”

 

Asuna says, with an annoyed look, “I was thinking about stew hamburgers tonight, but let’s change it to black bread instead.”

 

Kirito replies, nervously, “Okay! Okay! I’ll go! I want stew hamburgers!”

 

Asuna says, with a smile, “That’s great, Kirito-kun!”

 

Usagi snickers and she whispers, “Wonder how much Argo would pay for this information, huh?” Kirito glares at Usagi, who gives an innocent smile, and later on, the three of them are together as a small group appears in which a handsome young man with blond hair, violet eyes, and wearing white, golden, and violet clothing with violet jewel on the top walks forward.

 

He says, “Nice to meet you. I’m Alberich.”

 

Asuna prepares to greet them and Usagi thinks in her mind, “Why do I get the feeling of déjà vu here? Something about this guy seems familiar, but I’m not sure where!”

 

Kirito looks at Usagi and he thinks, “Is Usagi getting the same kind of discomfort that I’m getting?”

 

Asuna says, “Nice to meet you, too. I’m Asuna, vice-captain of the Knights of the Blood Oath.”

 

Usagi asks, with a smile, “Don’t you mean ‘Commander Asuna’ now?”

 

Asuna glares at Usagi and Alberich says, “I’ve heard of you. You are known as ‘The Lightning Flash’, Asuna.”

 

Usagi thinks in her mind, “He seems to be well-informed, but then again, Asuna is famous in SAO and that nickname is common knowledge here.”

 

Alberich says, “You are quite beautiful. You must be a real lady in the real world.” Asuna becomes nervous and Alberich says, with a cool smile and tone, “I’m sorry. It is taboo to touch up on real world subjects here. Forgive me.”

 

Alberich gives a slight chuckle and Asuna says, nervously, “Sure…”

 

Usagi thinks in her mind, her glare deepening, “Okay, there is something about that guy that I really don’t like! He seems give off a familiar feeling just like…just like Heathcliff…”

 

Alberich says, motioning to Kirito and Usagi, “By the way, who is these two? They must be strong players to be around here.”

 

Asuna responds, “These two will be observes for what happens today.”

Kirito says, “I’m Kirito. I usually go solo. Nice to meet you.”

 

Alberich says, “Oh, the ‘Black Swordsman’! It is thanks to you and the ‘White Valkyrie’ that we are able to come this far. We will do our best to become a force to the lead group and be prepared to crash through this place. Nice meeting you all.”

 

Usagi says, a bit of nervousness in her tone, “Nice to meet you, too. I’m Usagi.”

 

Alberich says, “What shall we do for? Actually, I have a good idea. I think that it is best that we show our power to work together with everyone.”

 

Asuna says, with a nod, “Yes, I agree. I think that for this test that we should duel and I’ll duel…”

 

Kirito says, interrupting, “Hold on, Asuna. I would like to take on this duel.”

 

Asuna asks, surprised, “Huh? Kirito-kun?”

 

Usagi says, “I agree. Since Kirito is one of the strongest players in the lead group, he should know how this new guild stacks up. It doesn’t seem fair, but since this is a test, I don’t think he has to win.”

 

Alberich says, “It is an honor to cross swords with the ‘Black Swordsman’.”

 

Asuna asks, nervously, “Can you hold on a minute, please?” Asuna escorts Usagi and Kirito out of sight and hearing range of Alberich and his group and she asks Usagi and Kirito, confused, “What was that all about?”

 

Kirito says, “I think that this is a bit weird. Usagi and I need for you to stay and observe with Usagi as I fight this guy.”

 

Asuna asks, confused, “Huh? But…?”

 

Usagi tells Asuna, “Asuna, I’m getting a bad feeling from that guy: A ‘Heathcliff type’ of a bad feeling.” Both Asuna and Kirito are surprised by this statement and their eyes show it.

 

Kirito tells Asuna, “Asuna, please.”

 

Asuna says, with a nod, “Okay.” Asuna and Usagi stand back as Kirito draws his two swords and prepares to duel with Alberich in which Alberich charges at Kirito with fast speeds and strikes with strong physical strength, but while that’s so, Kirito notices the unpolished technique in Alberich’s attacks and Usagi and Asuna see the same as they observe the same.

 

Usagi thinks in her mind, “This guy…His attacks are unpolished and there is no technique to them! He is just like some kind of super-strong rookie!” Alberich then distances him away and uses dust to try to blind Kirito, but Kirito rolls out of the way in which Usagi thinks in her mind, “What a cheap shot!” Kirito then ends the battle by using a Sword Skill to knock him down and knock sword out of his hands.

 

Kirito says, plainly, “The duel is over.”

 

Alberich says, irritated, “How can I lose? Is there something wrong with the data? This stupid game!”

 

Asuna says, solemnly, “Too bad, Alberich. Please contact me again when you gain more strength.”

 

Alberich says, “I think that there is nothing more with my ability.”

 

Asuna says, “It’s not that you can fight in this game by having the strongest level. So, I’m sorry.”

 

Alberich says, “I see. But you will someday need my assistance. Please contact me when that day comes.”

 

As Alberich returns to his group and his group walks away, Usagi thinks in her mind, “I really hope not because relying on someone like him will be a real pain in the butt and show that we have gone to an all-new low.”

 

Asuna says, solemnly, “That guy was weird…”

 

Kirito says, “I hope that he won’t start trouble.”

 

Asuna says, solemnly, “I hope so too, Kirito-kun.”

 

Kirito asks Usagi, “How bad was your ‘bad feeling’?”

 

Usagi responds, “That guy really creeps me out and what’s wrong, I feel that deep down, I know him from somewhere, but I never saw him in my life.”

 

Kirito says, “And something tells me that you might not have seen him during your exploration all over SAO.”

 

Usagi nods her head and she says, “We need to talk to the others about him.”

 

Kirito says, “I agree. Anyway, I plan to meet Argo today.”

 

Asuna asks, “Argo is coming?”

 

Usagi says, with a smile, “We need to talk to her about something. Follow us, Asuna.” Asuna, Kirito, and Usagi then head off, but as they head off, Usagi glances back in the direction of Alberich and wonder about him.

 

January 4, 2025, Hollow Area

 

Within an unknown part of the Hollow Area, Mimete is also watching Alberich and she says, with an evil grin, “Perfect.”

 

And that’s the chapter, everyone! It looks like we have a ‘new player’ in the game and Mimete is holding an interest in him. Why? Well, if you played ‘Hollow Fragment’ then I’m sure that you have a very good idea on why. Anyway, as usual, please read and review, and later and best wishes, Crossover Fans!