Sword Art Online: Aincrad's Hollow Fragment

November 5, 2024

Floor 61: Selmburg

The deletion of Yui hit everyone in a different way. Kirito and Asuna were more determined to clear the game for their newly adopted daughter while Ashtry and Kiyo were more or less unfazed by it. I, however, was affected the hardest out of the group. Yui was a program I had created to help people inside Sword Art Online. Once I found her unharmed and living with Kirito and Asuna, acting like a normal human, it hurt watching her be taken away from me twice because of the same person.

"Kayaba..."

Ashtry- You need to eat Kazzu. Even though it's a game, you should still give your body nutrition.

Ashtry set down a bowl of rice porridge in front of me. I smiled as I grabbed a spoon and dug in.

"Sorry my princess... I just... have a lot on my mind..."

Ashtry- Because Yui was deleted?

"Even though I managed to save her data and put it into that necklace Asuna wears, I still felt like I could've done more."

Kiyo- Well you said if you would've stay on longer, her data would've been permanently deleted. You saved her Papa!

Ashtry- Exactly... you did the best you could so please... don't beat yourself up over it.

"You're right... but... there's something I have to do... alone..."

Ashtry- Can you at least tell us what it is?

"I'm sorry... I believe it would be better if I kept it quiet for now... I promise it won't take me long..."

Ashtry- Alright... I trust you Kazzu...

She kissed me on the cheek as I finished my breakfast. Standing up, I grabbed my hoodie and flipped the hood over my face. I waved goodbye at my family and made my way towards Floor 55.

Kiyo- Is Papa going to be ok?

Ashtry- Of course he is sweetheart. In fact, I think your father has just found a way to get us out of the game without completing all one hundred floors.

Kiyo- Really! Oh, I can't wait!

Ashtry- Yea... me neither...

November 5, 2024

Floor 55: Grandzam

I kept my focus on the stone castle that the Knights of the Blood Oath called home. Their flags hanging from almost every corner and guards patrolling the entirety of the castle.

"This will be a tough one..."

Argo- Especially if you plan on wearing that. Did you seriously not bring anything else?

I turned around as Argo walked up to me and threw me a spare cloak. I smirked as I equipped it.

"Surprisingly enough, I don't prefer to do things a stealthy way unless I have to."

Argo- Typical strength vs. dexterity argument. Now why did you bring me here?

"I may have something that's worth your time. Something that is invaluable information. Sword 

Art Online's biggest secret."

Argo- And that would be?

"You'll see it if I'm correct."

Argo- So you had me come out here purely on a hunch that you had?

"If it makes you feel any better, I've had this hunch for quite some time. I just never acted upon it because I lacked evidence."

Argo- And what was the groundbreaking evidence that issued this little spy mission Kaz?

"My own A.I. program telling me to stop him..."

Argo went silent as she looked up at the castle. I could tell she had second thoughts by the hard thinking look on her face.

"Look Argo, believe me if you want but I believe this could be the key to freeing everyone in this game. If you don't want to come that's fine, I'll give you the information later. I just wanted you to see for yourself so that way you know I wasn't lying."

Argo- It's not that I don't believe you Kaz, it's just... hard to imagine. If you are correct, what will you do? The game would probably have a failsafe in case someone was trying to stop the game early.

"Perhaps, but I would rather try to give these people a chance then have them suffer trying to complete all one hundred floors. Even if I'm right and we are still stuck here, at least I was right."

Argo chuckled and punched my arm playfully. Her mood changed really quickly.

Argo- Well then Kaz, I propose a deal. If you are correct, I'll consider you bringing me along as payment for uncovering the biggest secret in Sword Art Online. However, if you are wrong and we don't find anything worth mentioning, I request one thing as payment.

"Name your price."

Argo- Your secret. I know that Kirito isn't the only one with a secret skill. There's no way that a beta tester could one up a developer and nab one of the sweetest secret skills. You're hiding something. And if you're wrong about this, I want you to spill the beans.

I sighed and gave her a smile. Somehow, I knew that would be the price to pay if I was wrong. Still, I had a good feeling about my suspicions.

"Alright then Rat. I accept your deal."

We both did a spit take on our hands and shook on it. There was no going back now.

Argo- Alright Kaz, what's the plan?

"Well, first we have to get inside and find the main office. Once we get there, we have to search for any information that can confirm my suspicions."

Argo- Well aren't you and your gal a part of this guild? Couldn't you just walk in whenever you want?

"I could, but currently me and my daughter are with Ashtry on a leave of absence. If I were to just stroll on in, they would know something is up. I want to do this with as little ties to me, my family and you as possible."

Argo- Aw! You do care about little ole me.

I chuckled at her comment as I scanned the area. Most of the buildings were too short for us to be able to jump over with ease except for one: a church building with a bell tower that was just tall enough to jump towards the castle walls.

"There. That will be our way inside."

Argo- You expect to jump that far? If anything, we would both end up with broken legs.

"Or I would just have a damaged shield."

I pulled my shield out and jumped on top of it, motioning a balancing movement.

Argo- Oh! I gotcha. Use the shield to break our fall.

"Exactly. I'll have to visit Lisbeth's afterward, but we'll cross that bridge later."

Argo- Alright, we have the plan. When do we execute it?

The church bell started to ring, depicting the time of day. I smirked as I started making my way towards the bell. Argo chuckled and followed behind me.

Argo- You pick the cheesiest of times to do things Kaz.

"It's part of my charm."

Argo- Oh really? Is that how you were able to bag one of the hottest babes in Sword Art?

"Possibly. But my love life is off limits."

Argo- Aw come on! Not even a little peek into your heart? I'll pay you!

"What do you think I am, a prostitute? No means no Argo."

Argo- Damn it... you're no fun...

"At least not here..."

Argo- Huh?

"If we meet up in the real-world Argo, I'll tell you everything you want to know. I'll even bring Ash and Kiyo with me."

Argo- Hm... that sounds intriguing. Deal.

I chuckled as we entered the church and climbed up the stairs to reach the top of the bell tower. Looking down, we could see the townspeople walking around with a few of them looking up at us confused.

Argo- We might want to hurry up here Kaz. Getting some weird looks down there.

"Just one second... get ready..."

I pulled out a small black bomb with a short fuse attached. Striking a fire, I lit the fuse and readied myself for the jump. I motioned Argo to join me, her slipping underneath my arm as I held onto her tight. The small bomb hit the end of the fuse, spouting black smoke. As the smoke was dispersing, me and Argo ran towards the edge of the bell tower and jumped off. The smoke giving us enough cover to be unnoticed as I placed my shield under our feet, riding it on the wind like a surfboard.

Argo- One...

"Two..."

We both jumped off the shield and landed on the walls of the castle, sliding into a crouch and staying out of sight as my shield clashed down to the ground, luckily not attracting any attention from the guards nearby.

Argo- We're in!

"Shush... we have to be as quiet as possible."

Argo- Right... sorry...

I nod at her and start making my way down towards the main office. Along the way, we passed through some guards discussing monster drops and rare hunting spots.

Argo- Oh man... these suckers are giving me all sorts of free information... and I don't have to pay a single col.

I kept quiet as I scanned the area.

No guards in the courtyard... are they all out...?

Argo- Seems pretty quiet...

"Almost too quiet..."

Suddenly, three guards came out and noticed the shield.

Shit...

Guard #1- Hey check this out...

Guard #2- A shield?

Guard #3- Not just any shield. This is the Dark Prince's shield.

Guard #2- Is he here? I thought he was on leave?

Guard #1- He must be training with his lady. Those two sure are an interesting couple.

Argo nudged me as she whispered in a smug tone.

Argo- Oh, yes please guard tell me more.

"Shut up Rat."

Guard #3- He'll probably come down here and grab it. Let's not piss him off by grabbing it.

The other guards agreed, leaving the shield alone and walking in a different direction. Using the opportunity, I quickly grabbed my shield and ran inside the castle, Argo following close behind.

Argo- Ok we're in.

"Now we need to find the main council room. We should find what we need there."

As we rounded corners and avoided contact with the other guards, we eventually reached our destination. The room was completely empty, no one was sitting at the main council table. Not even the sound of the wind outside reached our ears.

Argo- I would be impressed if I wasn't creeped out by the silence.

"Then let's find what we are looking for and leave. In and out."

Argo- What exactly is it that we are looking for?

"A room. The commanders room."

Argo's eyes went wide as she marched over and grabbed my arm.

Argo- You didn't tell me we were going to break into the Knight Commanders room!?

"Would you have come if I told you?"

Argo- Are you kidding me!? Of course I would've! I've always wanted to see what the top player of Sword Art Online has hidden away!

We heard footsteps approach the main council room.

Argo- Crap!

Guard #1- Did you hear something sir?

We heard Heathcliff's voice. He sounded aggravated and ready to discipline anyone in his way.

Heathcliff- That's what I'm going to check out. Get back to work now!

Guard #1- Yes sir!

Argo- Shit! Heathcliff is here. What do we do!?

I shushed her and looked frantically around the room, hoping to find a place to hide. Luckily for us, I spotted a door.

"Come on!"

We both rushed over to the door and entered inside. What we weren't prepared for was the contents of the room. The room was surrounded in ruby colored red decorations. The ceiling, the carpet on the floor, even the sheets on the bed. All the wasn't colored ruby red was the name plate on the door: Heathcliff.

"You gotta be fucking kidding me..."

Argo- Ok we are in a red room. Now what?

I noticed a closet and opened it up for Argo.

"Get in."

Argo- You want me to be stuck in a closet with you!? You perv!

"Argo now is really not the time! Just shut up and get in here!"

Argo held in a blush and slowly got inside the closet with me. I closed the door close enough to leave a little crack for vision. Argo looked at me unamused and whispered quietly.

Argo- You better not try anything funny Kaz...

"I'm not going to do anything but watch. Now be quiet."

Argo puffed her cheeks at me as someone entered the room. They walked in and looked around, not noticing anything suspicious. He let his guard down and took a seat on the bed.

Heathcliff- Looks like it's clear...

The Blood Oath commander the unequipped his sword and shield, running his hands across his face.

Heathcliff- This charade is getting really old.

Charade?

Heathcliff- I'm trying my best to keep these people in line and assist them to getting to the final boss! Yet those five little brats keep finding reasons to break apart from the guild! Especially...

Argo- He sounds pissed...

I ignored the Rat and listened in further on his complaints. Heathcliff stood up and walked over to a mirror, taking a deep breath and placing his hand on the mirror. The mirror ran a scan on him and within seconds his face digitized into something else, someone else. Heathcliff...

Was Kayaba Akihiko. My father.

Argo- No way... he changed his face...

I stayed silent as my hands started shaking. I had my suspicions but to see it up close and personal, it shook me to the core of my digital body.

Argo- Do you know who that is Kaz?

"Yes... unfortunately I do..."

A single tear fell down my cheek as Kayaba sat back down on the bed. Holding his head in his hands.

Argo- Wait... Kazzu... is that your old man?

I nodded my head in silence as Argo held her hand up to her mouth both out of excitement for new information and fear of being killed by the creator of the game. Kayaba let out a sigh and stared at the wall in front of him.

Kayaba- Damn it Kazzu... why can't you see that this world is our dream come true? Why can't you just join me? We would be making this world our reality just like we wanted...

Argo- Is that true Kaz?

"It was at one point... but he destroyed that dream a long time ago."

Kayaba- Instead you just keep on fighting me... why? Haven't you suffered enough? Haven't you seen enough for your spirit to break? I could ease that pain if you just joined me...

I stayed silent as my fists clenched. The lies spewing out of his mouth only making me angrier and angrier. Kayaba let out another sigh and walked towards the mirror, his face reconstructing back to Heathcliff.

Heathcliff- No matter. Sooner or later, he will join me. Whether he wants to or not.

A knock came from his door. As he opened it, a guard bowed his head.

Guard #1- Sir, the Assault team has been notified.

Heathcliff- Kirito and Asuna?

Guard #1- Informed. They should be joining us on Floor 75 here shortly.

Heathcliff- What about Kazzu? His daughter and Ashtry been informed?

Guard #1- Negative. On your orders, they are kept in the dark.

Heathcliff- Keep it that way. Dismissed.

With that, Heathcliff and his guard left the room. Me and Argo quietly snuck out of the closet and looked at each other.

Argo- You don't have to tell me your secret skill anymore Kaz... this takes the cake...

"I knew it... I had a feeling in my gut, and I chose to hold back... I could end this right now... I could've ended it a long time ago..."

Argo- Kaz... it's not your fault. None of us knew how Kayaba was watching over us but now it makes sense that he is the best player in the game.

"Argo... you need to go..."

Argo- What!?

"My father has something planned for the Assault Team that requires me, Ashtry and Kiyo to be left in the dark. That means he sees us as a threat. I need you to go find them and inform them about Floor 75."

Argo- What about you? Can't you inform them?

"If my judgement is right, the reason why Kayaba came in here and revealed his secret was because he knows I'm here. My shield being found in the courtyard was a dead giveaway."

Argo- But what if they do something to you?

"Heathcliff wouldn't risk doing something rash in front of his peers. I'll be ok. But I need you to find Ashtry and Kiyo and get them to the 75th Floor to assist the Assault Team do you understand?"

Argo- But...

"Do you understand me Argo!?"

She paused for a moment before slowly nodding her head. She reached in her pocket and pulled out a teleport crystal.

Argo- I'll come back for you Kaz. I promise.

"Kazuhito..."

Argo- What?

"My name. My real name. Kazuhito."

Her eyes widened as I gave her a small smile and left the room.

Argo- Teleport: Selmburg.

I slowly walked out of the council room and equipped my sword and shield, my shield on low durability due to entering the castle. I didn't mind, as long as I gave Argo time to reach my family. As I entered the courtyard, I was confronted by a semi-circle of knights with their blades trained on me. Heathcliff standing right in the center.

Heathcliff- Breaking and entering, sneaking around, stealing information... this is low. Even for the Dark Prince.

I said nothing as I readied my blade to him. His knights moved closer to engage me, but Heathcliff motioned them back, pulling out his own blade.

Heathcliff- It's a shame your kid and Ashtry aren't here. Then they would see the monster you really are.

"Funny. I was gonna say the same thing about you."

Heathcliff- Kazzu Akihiko, for your crimes committed against the Knights of the Blood Oath I hereby denounce your rank from our guild and sentence you to rot in the depths of the Iron Prison. Surrender now or you will be executed.

"Do as you wish. But I'm not backing down without a fight."

I pointed my blade to him and raised my shield up high, prepared for battle. I took a deep breath as Heathcliff raised his shield as well. We both took a second longer before we both rushed each other, clashing our shields. We both jumped back and started swinging swords. Each hit was responded with a block from the other. Our strikes were predicted by the opposition. We couldn't get a hit in on each other. We were evenly matched.

Heathcliff- I'm surprised that you can keep up with me Dark Prince. Not even Kirito with his dual blades could react this fast.

"Because I've been holding back! For a good reason!"

Our swords collided with one another, puting us at a standstill. Heathcliff tried to knock me of balance with his shield, but I used my own to knock his shield arm down, break the sword lock and get a good slash across his midsection. He stumbled back as I recovered, ready to defend anything he had to throw. His chuckle surprised me.

Heathcliff- Big mistake Kazzu.

He pointed upwards at his cursor, motioning me to check my own. I looked up as I saw it change from green to orange. My eyes widened.

Shit...

Without warning, a squad of heavily armored NPC's teleported in and surrounded me. I knew that killing these NPCs would only make matters worse so...

I kept fighting.

Guard #1- Shouldn't we call Lady Ashtry sir!?

Heathcliff- Give it a moment...

I started defending myself against the NPC's, trying my best to only render them unconscious. Despite my efforts, they had overwhelming numbers to the point where I couldn't keep up with them. They started knocking me around like I was paper, eventually getting me down to the ground. Before I had a chance to struggle back to my feet, a yellow lightning bolt appeared next to my health bar.

Paralysis...

Heathcliff- You should've joined me when you had the chance.

Before I knew it, my body was teleported into a solitary confined room deep within the Iron Prison. My arms and legs trapped by locked chains with only a door in front of me to keep me company.

"Argo... you're my only chance now..."

November 5, 2024

Floor 61: Selmburg

Argo- Damn it Kazzu you reckless bastard...

She kept running. Running all over town trying to find the only two people who could help me stop my father's plans. She ran up and down every section of the safe zone looking for a sign of where they could be, only stopping to catch her breath.

Argo- God damn it! Where are they!?

Kiyo- Miss Argo?

The Rat turned around to find the small child looking at her confused. This only made Argo smile as she pulled Kiyo into a bear hug and spun her around.

Argo- Oh thank God, I found you! We need to find Ash, where is she!?

Ashtry- I'm right here Argo. No need to...

She was interrupted by Argo lunging toward and hugging her, softly crying into her shoulder.

Argo- I'm sorry. I'm so, so sorry Ashtry.

Ashtry- It's ok Argo just relax. What's going on?

Argo- It's... I don't know... he...

Ashtry- Argo, breathe. I can't figure out what's going on if you can't tell me.

Argo- It's Kazzu! They got Kazzu! He got Kazzu!

Kiyo and Ashtry looked at each other worried. They escorted Argo back to the house and locked the door, making sure no one was listening. After sitting Argo down on the couch, they continued the conversation.

Ashtry- What happened Argo? What did you and Kazzu do?

Argo- Kazzu messaged me that he wanted me to tag along for a job, one that would give me the game's biggest secret that I could sell for a lot of money. I only thought it would be a new sword skill he discovered or his secret that he won't tell anybody but what we found was much... more than that...

Ashtry- What was the secret Argo? What happened?

Argo- Kazzu and I broke into the Knights of the Blood Oath castle on Floor 55.

Ashtry- You did what!?

Kiyo- Why would Papa do something like that?

Argo- I told you, for the biggest secret in the game. I was going to hold it to myself for a while but after what we saw... I don't think I can.

Ashtry- What did you see?

Argo- We saw... Heathcliff I believe it was... we hid in his room, and we saw his face change in front of a mirror. I had no idea who it was at first, but Kazzu knew straight away. It was his old man, Kayaba Akihiko.

Ashtry's eyes went wide as well as Kiyo's. Hey both looked at each other and stood up immediately.

Ashtry- Argo... are you one hundred percent positive that you and Kazzu saw Heathcliff turn into Kayaba?

Argo- I'm an information broker. I don't lie when it comes to stuff like this.

Kiyo- That means Papa's Papa has him Mama. He could be in serious danger!

Ashtry- He is... Heathcliff... no, Kayaba... always talked about a special cell he would put Kazzu in. Even after we started dating, he never let it go. If ever come a day Kazzu became a threat, he wanted me to hunt him down and put him there.

Kiyo- Mama...

Ashtry- I was never going to put him in that prison. However, I do know that's where they are keeping him without a doubt.

Argo- So let's go there and free him!

Ashtry- Even if we were to go in there, the place is surrounded by guards Heathcliff... Kayaba... assigned to hang back during boss raids.

Argo- Damn it... then that place will be well defended. Kayaba was talking to a guard about the Floor 75 boss. He wanted you, Kiyo and Kazzu to be unaware of it.

Ashtry- Then that must mean that he has something planned for the Assault Team! Damn it!

Argo- What can we do!?

Ashtry- There's nothing we can do! We can't bust Kazzu out of jail, we couldn't get close to the boss room with just the three of us, we can't do anything!

Kiyo- Mama... could I... suggest something?

Ashtry- What is it Kiyo?

Kiyo nervously walked over to Argo and whispered something in her ear. Argo's eyes widened as she looked at Kiyo concerned.

Argo- Kiddo...? Are you sure?

Kiyo- I don't see any other choice... it's either them or we have to try doing it ourselves...

Ashtry- What's going on?

Argo- You know where they are kiddo?

Kiyo- Yes ma'am. I never removed them from my friends list.

Ashtry- Pup, who are you talking about.

Kiyo walked up and held Ashtry's hands, looking up at her with a small smile.

Kiyo- We gotta find Miss Sachi Mama.

November 5, 2024

Floor 1: The Iron Prison, Solitary Confinement

I struggled to break myself free from the chains binding my hands and feet. Even with my high leveled stats, the chains wouldn't so much as budge.

"Damn it..."

Suddenly, the door in front of me opened up. Heathcliff stepped towards and walked towards me; his face smothered in disappointment.

"Nice to see you again Father. Did you miss me?"

A firm backhand found its way across my cheek. The stinging sensation replaced by numbing rage as I looked at my father with gritted teeth.

Heathcliff's- You know Kazzu, you've been an enormous pain in my ass for the past two years.

"I'd rather be a pain in the ass than a murderer. You ever think about those four thousand players? How their families are dealing with their deaths?"

Heathcliff- Damn it Kazzu! Can't you understand that their deaths are part of our dream! Our legacy! We wanted to create another world, another reality! Death is something anyone in any reality must accept!

"Not when they have don't have a choice! These people signed up to play a virtual reality game, not give their lives away to a madman with an impossible dream!"

Heathcliff- But that's where you're wrong. You've experienced it for yourself. People in this world have adjusted to it as if it was their real life. It may not be the alternate reality I had hoped for, but it is progress. Most of these people don't even want to leave.

"And what about their bodies in real life? We've been under hospitalized maintenance since day one. Our bodies are growing weaker and weaker with each passing day. I'm surprised most haven't died from lack of nutrition."

Heathcliff- A minor setback. I'm helping clear this game so that the remaining players can escape, recover and then be reused as my subjects.

"You're sick... humans aren't your lab rats. These people aren't your lab rats!"

Heathcliff- No. They are even better. They are my ticket into merging virtual reality and reality together. I will try as many times as I must in order to achieve my dream. Our dream, son. And you could be a part of it, if only you accept my offer and join me.

"I would rather die."

His face turned into sadness. He let out a sigh and turned his back to me.

Heathcliff- That's a shame. I was hoping to spare your friends... looks like I'll have to do it the hard way.

"Wait, what!?"

Heathcliff- The Floor 75 boss has six full bars of health and is capable of killing players in one shot. If you won't join me then you will be responsible for the deaths of the Assault Team. Including Kirito and Asuna.

"So that's why you wanted Ashtry and Kiyo to be in the dark. You're going to use their deaths to frame me as the villain and turn them against me."

Heathcliff- That would be partially correct. I'm going to say that you left the battle like a coward, leaving the Assault Team to die without your aid. Before you could make it out of the dungeon, mob monsters got the better of you. You died a coward.

"They won't fall for that. None of them will."

Heathcliff- The point of the matter is that you won't be alive to see the deaths of your friends.

He quickly turned around and plunged a dagger deep into my chest. The damage was minimal, but my health was slowly starting to deplete.

"Poison... I didn't think you... liked Laughing Coffins methods..."

Heathcliff- I despise that group of lunatics as much as I do you trying to oppose me. This poison will last long enough for us to get to the boss room. By then, my story will be more believable.

He started to walk away. If I was going to die, I wanted to know one thing.

"Father!?"

He came to a halt at the door, waiting for what I would say next.

"Will they be safe...? If they stay away from the front line?"

Heathcliff- You have my word son... no harm shall come to them...

He left after clarifying that. I knew he was lying, but I needed something to believe. Something to help me push through this clenching pain in my chest.

"Kiyo... Ashtry..."

I looked up at my health and noticed the slow drain reset itself as I regained health points, due to my Battle Healing skill.

"I won't be able to hold out forever."

November 6, 2024

Floor 11: Taft

Ashtry- Are you sure this is it Kiyo?

Argo- I thought they were looking for something on a higher floor?

Kiyo- Yes ma'am. My searching skill led me to this small house here inside the safe zone.

Argo- I guess it would make sense due to...

Kiyo- Please... don't bring it up Miss Argo...

Argo- Sorry kiddo.

Ashtry- Alright. I'll go ahead and...

Kiyo- No Mama... I'll do it. Even if I get the door slammed in my face, I should be the one to look them in the eyes. For Papa.

Ashtry nodded her head and took a step back. Kiyo took a deep breath as she knocked on the door, prepared for anything that they would throw at her. The door unlocked and slowly opened, revealing a slightly older Keita looking down at Kiyo.

Keita- Kiyo? What...? What are you doing here?

Kiyo- Hello Mister Keita... is... Miss Sachi here too?

Keita looked at the company she was keeping and stepped outside, slamming the door behind him.

Keita- And who are these two? Hired killers come to silence us once and for all?

Kiyo- What!? No I...

Keita- I told you and that bastard of a father of yours to not show your faces around here again! Now you've come to kill me and the only friend I have left!?

Kiyo- No! I promise! My Papa is in trouble! He got taken to jail!

Keita- Holy hell! Finally, some justice has been served to that prick! If you were hoping we would help you, look somewhere else!

The door opened again. Sachi stepped out and looked at the commotion with a worried look.

Sachi- Keita? What's going on?

Keita- Get back inside Sachi! They want nothing good from us.

Kiyo- Please! I need your help! My Papa is trapped inside a prison being held against his will by Kayaba! I don't care if you hate me, I just want you to help me save my dad!

Kiyo broke down crying on her knees. Everyone around her went silent as she sobbed. Argo tried to comfort her, but Ashtry stopped her, motioning her to Sachi who was also walking up to Kiyo. She knelt down and held the child's cheek in her hand.

Sachi- Little Kiyo... you look so grown up now...

Kiyo- Miss Sachi...

Kiyo leapt into Sachi's arms and continued to sob into her shoulder. Sachi picked the poor child up and walked to her door, looking back at the others.

Sachi- Keita, let them through. Let's hear what they have to say.

Keita- But Sachi...

Sachi- Just do it Keita!

Sachi turned her back and walked inside with Kiyo, leaving Keita, Ashtry and Argo to slowly follow behind her. As they were about to reach the living room, Sachi looked back again.

Sachi- I'll listen to what she has to say. Keita, make sure they don't do anything.

Keita- Got it...

Sachi and Kiyo closed themselves inside the living room. Awkward silence fills the room as Ashtry tried to clear the air.

Ashtry- Thank you for listening... she's in a lot of pain...

Keita- Don't come to me and talk about pain. That little demon should've been put in jail with that monster.

Ashtry- Excuse me!?

Keita- You have no idea what those two have done to me! Done to us!

Ashtry- I rest assure you Kazzu did nothing...

Keita- Tell that to my dead teammates! Tell that to my guild! Tell that to the Moonlit Black Cats!

Ashtry took a second and stepped back upon hearing that name.

Ashtry- Moonlit...

Keita- I'm sure your "friend" told you all about us huh? Bet it was a bunch of lies.

Ashtry took a deep breath and stepped forward.

Ashtry- Keita... Kazzu never really talked about you a whole lot...

Keita- Yea... probably because he didn't care...

Ashtry- On the contrary, he did care. He cared about you so much that he told me that he would have nightmares about that day. The day they were trapped in that room surrounded by monsters. He was afraid of letting that happen to anyone else that he got close too.

Keita remained silent as she kept going.

Ashtry- He was afraid of that happening to Kiyo, he was afraid of that happening to me, but most importantly, he was scared that it would happen to you two and he would have no idea.

Keita- What...?

Ashtry- He loved you all as his best friends. You gave him a home, a family, when nobody else would. In his time of darkness, you guys were his ray of light.

Keita- If that were true, then why did he lie to us? Why not tell us who he was and save us the trouble?

Kazzu- Because he wanted to be remembered as the player who risks his life for others, not the son of Kayaba Akihiko. That's what he did for you guys when he found you in the dungeon correct?

Keita said nothing as he looked down at the ground.

Ashtry- He may have kept his stats and everything a secret, but he wasn't doing it just to lie to you. He did it to grow closer to you, his first friends.

Keita raised his head and looked at the Red Hunter with widened eyes. Before he could get another word out, the living room door opened and Kiyo stepped out, her head hanging low.

Argo- So what did she say?

Kiyo only responded with a shake of her head. Her sniffles heard as Argo looked up at Sachi in rage.

Argo- You're kidding me!? You aren't going to help us!?

Sachi- I'm sorry. Even if we wanted to, which we don't, we aren't a high enough level to face off against those kinds of players. We would be wiped out in an instant.

Argo- He's been risking his life for the surviving populace of this game and you're going to turn your backs on the only person who could beat this game and send us home!? Your only hope of going back to the real world!?

Sachi- I understand that he is strong miss. But the fact of the matter is that he still lied to us. If he really cared about us, he would've found us and apologized to us personally. Yet he hasn't shown his face since that day. I'm sorry... but you three are on your own...

Kiyo slowly left with another sniffle, Argo angrily following her. Ashtry stood still and clenched her hands together in fists. She shot a look at Sachi and walked up to her.

Ashtry- You can think all you want about Kazzu. But let me tell you this. I've seen him go through many challenges. I have seen him laugh, cry, fall and rise up again. If there is one thing, I have never seen in Kazzu, it's regret. He may hate the fact that he didn't stop his father from making this game a death trap, but he doesn't regret a single decision he has made since hopping in this game. That includes you and the Moonlit Black Cats.

Ashtry made her way towards the door. Before she stepped outside, she turned back to Sachi one more time.

Ashtry- He never regretted being with you Sachi, even until the end. He was happy to be with you.

She left the house and shut the door behind her, taking a deep breath and joining the other two females.

Argo- Damn it, now what! Who knows when that psychopath is going to go to the boss room and we have no idea if he's done anything to Kazzu!

Kiyo- Miss Argo, calm down please.

Argo- Calm down!? I'm not going to calm down! You shouldn't be calm either! Your dad is in jail just waiting to die while his father is trying to kill everyone on Floor 75! Where am I supposed to be calm?

Ashtry- Right now. With or without Sachi, we are going in there and breaking Kazzu out.

Argo- That's suicide! With our numbers we would get overrun!

Ashtry- I don't care. I would rather try than do nothing. So, I'm going there, with or without you.

Kiyo- Well you can count me in. I'm not leaving Papa behind.

Ashtry- Argo? Will you help us?

Argo groaned in frustration and rubbed her temple. She let out a sigh and crossed her arms.

Argo- You and Kaz have to be the most demanding customers I've ever had in this game. But... yea... I'm in.

Argo flashed a smile at the other two ladies, who responded with smiles of their own. The three rushed over to the teleport gate and made their way to floor one.

Ashtry- Hang in there my prince... I'm coming for you.

November 6, 2024

Floor 1: The Iron Prison, Solitary Confinement

Inch by inch my health was slowly decreasing due to my father's poison and my Battle Healing skill. I estimated I only had about an hour left before the poison kills me considering I've been staying up all night watching it, making sure I didn't die in my sleep.

"Ashtry... Kiyo... everyone... I'm sorry... I failed you..."

I lowered my head and started to think back on the happy moments during my time in Sword Art Online.

Meeting Silica and helping her revive Pina while also putting a stop to Titan's Hand.

Adopting Kiyo as my own child and going on many adventures with her.

Helping Liz find the rare metal needed to craft both me and Kirito's secret weapons.

Joining the Moonlit Black Cats and making friends with Sachi.

But the happiest moment I could think of, was seeing Ashtry for who she truly was. A smart, funny, beautiful woman who had stayed by my side no matter the danger. A woman who loved me for who I was, not what people saw me as. A woman who I had promised to love and protect along with my daughter.

I smirked, closing my eyes and letting out a sigh.

"Ashtry... I tried... so hard... to always make it back to you..."

Looking back up at my health, I noticed it reach into the red with around thirty three percent of my health remaining. I looked at the door, still closed and locked. Not a sound could be heard except for my apologies.

"Forgive me Ashtry... Kiyo... but... I don't think I'll be coming home..."

Suddenly, I could hear muffled screaming and clashing of steel right above me. It wasn't loud enough to echo but my senses picked up on the noise fairly quickly. I only looked up shocked.

"Ashtry...? Kiyo...?"

November 6, 2024

Floor One: The Iron Palace, Prison Cells

Ashtry and Kiyo fought their way through the prison cells. The fact that they had to be none lethal made the task of reaching me harder than it needed to be. With each guard they pushed back, two more would jump in front and push harder.

Kiyo- This isn't good Mama! They keep on coming!

Ashtry- Don't give up Kiyo! We have to keep fighting! The fate of everyone trapped here is up to us!

The two girls kept fighting and fighting, pushing the very limits of their bodies to quickly and effectively dispatch of the swarming goons of Blood Oath knights surrounding them at every turn. As Ashtry was trying to pierce through their defenses, one knight snuck up behind her and knocked her to the wall with his shield.

Kiyo- Mama!

Her panic made her lose focus as the same knight kicked her back next to Ashtry. Ashtry grabbed her rapier and looked at the knights with boiling anger.

Ashtry- You won't touch my daughter again!

Knight #1- Just give up Lady Ashtry. You're surrounded!

Knight #2- Just put down your weapon and we can call this a simple misunderstanding.

Ashtry- There's nothing to misunderstand besides the fact that you all are following a lunatic!

Kiyo- The real bad guy is on Floor 75! You guys aren't doing anything to stop him!

Knight #2- Yea right brat! Your father has been public enemy number one ever since the defeat of the first boss.

Knight #3- And if you two won't surrender, we'll gladly make sure you and the Dark Prince are kept together forever. In solitary confinement!

Ashtry gritted her teeth as the knights started closing in on them. She held Kiyo close while she held onto her dagger tightly.

Ashtry- Don't give up...

Kiyo- No matter what...

Before the guards could reach them, a soft metal clash was heard in the back of the surrounding group. It caught Ashtry's attention for a second until another clash was heard, louder than the first. The sound started getting louder and closer. The closer it got; the more was revealed. The clashes were followed up by knights being flung into the air or pushed back into the others. Ashtry narrowed her eyes as she heard the screech of a familiar.

Ashtry- Is that...?

Kiyo- No way...

A knight was sent flying to the front, knocking by down a few other where Ashtry's eyes widened at the sight in front of her. Six figures jumped over the surrounding knights and landed in front of the defending females. One of them turned back and smirked as Ashtry.

Lisbeth- What are you two still doing here!? Get going!

Silica- We'll hold them off as much as we can! Save Kazzu!

Yolko- Time for us to repair our debt!

Caynz- In the name of the Dark Prince. We are with you!

Keita- Don't go saying that! I'm not here for him!

Sachi- No, we are here to save lives. And Kazzu is our best bet.

Kiyo- Miss Sachi...

One more figure jumped out of the cluster of knights and landed next to Ashtry, out of breath.

Argo- Screw you two... for leaving me... behind with the fodder...

Ashtry- Sorry Argo. I'll make it up to you I promise.

Argo- Don't worry about it! Just get Kazzu out of here!

The knights then rushed the newly formed group of past associates. Ashtry smiled and rushed Kiyo along with her. Seconds later, they were at a large door with a multitude of locks.

Ashtry- He always did like his security.

Seconds later the door was open.

November 6, 2024

Floor 1: The Iron Prison, Solitary Confinement

I looked up as the door swung open, seeing my love and my daughter burst through and run to my side.

Kiyo- Papa!

Ashtry- Oh my god Kazzu!

Both of them started slashing at the chains restricting me, snapping them like twigs and causing me to fall in front of them. I struggled to get back on my feet.

Ashtry- We made it... just in time...

Kiyo pulled out a healing crystal and raised my health back up, along with dispelling the poisonous effects. Even still, I was too tired to move or fight. Ashtry and Kiyo must have noticed this as they picked me up under my arms and helped me out of the prison. The rescue party seeing my condition, said nothing as they followed me and my family back to Ashtry's house.

November 6, 2024

Floor 61: Selmburg

After placing me on a bed, I immediately shut my eyes and passed out. Ashtry and Kiyo left the room quietly and shut the door.

Lisbeth- Is he going to be ok?

Ashtry- He's been fighting that poison for a full twenty-four hours. His strength is depleted. He just needs rest and he'll be ready to fight in the morning.

Argo- Won't Heathcliff... you know... be in the boss room already?

Ashtry- Kayaba, Argo. That's his real name, use it.

Silica- Who would've thought the best player in the game was the final boss as well?

Argo- He even threw me for a loop.

Keita- So the commander for the Knights of the Blood Oath is the big bad guy after all...

Sachi- And if we don't stop him on Floor 75, it's all over for us.

Yolko- But what can we do?

Caynz- We aren't strong enough to be on the front lines.

Keita- I'm surprised that we even pulled off this prison break without a sweat.

Ashtry- Which, by the way, how come your cursors aren't orange? You attacked green players?

Argo- Ha! There's a little flaw in the prison's security dear Red Hunter. Since the prison counts as a jail, players who are sent to jail can't change their cursor color. Same applies to any green players there too. Green players could fight each other, and nothing would happen.

Kiyo- Flawless information Miss Argo!

Argo- Thanks kiddo.

Ashtry- Back to the topic at hand, how are we going to get the Floor 75 to help them with the boss? If Kayaba sees us, he'll find a way to turn the Assault Team against us.

"It's simple Ash..."

Everyone looked to see me limping out of the bedroom and lean on a nearby counter. I looked at everyone with half opened eyes.

"We don't... fight the boss... we wait until... afterwards..."

Lisbeth- What!?

Silica- Kazzu...

Keita- Are you serious!?

Sachi- But...

Ashtry- What about the other players? They'll die up there...

"Incorrect. You and Kiyo will be going to the battle to help save as many people as you can. I'll be waiting outside the room, ready to strike once the battles over."

Yolko- Would that work?

Caynz- What would they even say to get past Heathcliff?

"All they have to do is say that they noticed my health bar going down and my avatar not appearing on the map. That will leave Heathcliff distracted long enough to not see through their lie."

Argo- Deception at its finest. Good thinking Kaz!

"Listen... all of you..."

They all lent me their ear one more time, my eyes growing heavy but persisting to stay awake.

"If I don't... beat my father tomorrow... if we still are stuck in this game by the end of the day... I want you all to stay alive and survive as long as you can. Don't go to the front lines... don't leave the safe zones... and avoid my father at all costs..."

They all looked at each other with worried, concerned looks but all gave me a slow nod as Ashtry and Kiyo escorted me back to bed. As everyone left, Lisbeth stayed behind to check on me.

Lisbeth- Even in the face of death, you know how to cheer us up huh?

Kiyo- That's my Papa for you!

Ashtry- I'll make sure he's rested. You can head back to the shop if you need Liz.

Lisbeth- I will, after Kazzu hands me his weapon.

Ashtry- What?

Lisbeth- I promised to be Kazzu's executive blacksmith and I refuse to break that promise. The weapon we made together is the best hope we have for escaping this game. If there is anything I can do to better improve his chances, I'm going to do it.

"Liz..."

Lisbeth- Rika... Rika Shinozaki...

My eyes widened as she revealed her real name. I smiled and slowly opened my menu, sending my secret weapon over to Liz.

Lisbeth- Have you thought of a name?

"I thought... you had already named it?"

Lisbeth- I wanted the honors to go to you...

"Well then... I'm going to call them..."