Sword Art Online: Aincrad's Hollow Fragment

December 2, 2022

Floor 1: Tolbana

Since the game began, a whole month has gone by, and two thousand people have died so far.I considered myself and Kiyo lucky to not be involved in those casualties. After all of this time, none of the players have been able to clear floor one. I used to be a beta tester and even I haven't figured out where the boss lair is, although I had a guess as to where it could be. Today, finally, the players were having a meeting on how to find and defeat the floor one boss. I looked out to the crowd of players surrounding the town's decorative fountain, thinking that they must have been there to join the meeting for the boss. Even though I was fairly certain where the boss was located, I knew I couldn't beat it on my own even as an experienced beta tester. Even worse was the fact that I adopted Kiyo. I didn't regret the decision, but I didn't want her to get hurt and I knew that bringing her into battle would cause me to worry about her, thus slowing me down. However, ever since the ice cream quest, she has been getting more aquatinted with using her blade. She's a few levels below me at this point but she had her own strengths. Regardless of my worries of her fighting a floor boss, she insisted that she come with me so she could watch my back and be there for me if I needed assistance. In the end, I couldn't say no to her. I noticed Kiyo as she ran towards me, a small smile appearing on her face as she skidded to a halt in front of me. She lifted her hand up to her forehead, saluting me and standing in attention.

Kiyo- Private daughter Kiyo reporting for duty Papa. The meeting is about to start soon!

I chuckled at her silliness, deciding to play along by puffing out my chest and marching in front of her.

"At ease Private! You've done your duty. Let's make haste to the meeting. On the double!"

Kiyo- Sir yes sir!

We both shared a laugh and proceeded to jog toward the meeting rendezvous point. Other players looked at us with a mix of happy and confused looks. I ignored them, knowing that they were judging the fact that I was about to bring a small child into battle. I had gained a newfound confidence that Kiyo would make the right decisions when it came time to face the boss. Above all else, she would follow my orders to the letter. I had no worries.

It took us little time to make it to a small outdoor auditorium. Were this not a crucial meeting, I was curious if there would be actors and actresses here performing plays and amusing the players with tales of love, adventure and death. Sadly, me and the rest of Aincrad would never know considering none of us had time to watch such plays. Kiyo and I took a seat towards the back of the auditorium and gave our full attention to the player in center stage. He was wearing half of a full set of armor with a black and white shield attached to his back. He flipped his long turquoise hair back as he turned to face the crowd, which numbered twenty-eight in the body count not counting me, Kiyo and other players proceeding to enter. The man with turquoise hair clasped his hands together to gain the other players attention.

Turquoise- Ok people. Now that everyone is here, let's get this meeting started!

Kiyo- He sounds excited about something. Do you think they found the boss room papa?

"It would be nice if they did. We can't spend another month stuck on the first floor."

Turquoise- So anyway, I want to thank everyone for coming. Good to see you. My name is Diavel and in this game, the job I rolled is Knight!

Diavel pounded his fist onto his chest, making a small thud on his armor. He was then laughed at by the people in the crowd.

Player #1- Dude there is no job system in this game!

Player #2- Knight? Please...

Diavel- Alright! Do you guys want to hear this or not?

I smiled at his character motive. 

A strong knight leading a group of players to defeat the evil which lied on the first floor. I respected that kind of character development. This is what I wanted when I helped make this game. Sadly, that prospect was mostly thrown away when this game launched.

Kiyo- Whoa! A real knight! Papa, he looks so cool!

"Yea he does. Now let's listen, he might be getting serious."

And serious he became. His facial expression went deadpan as he addressed the crowd once more.

Diavel- Right, anyway here's the deal: Our party found the boss room at the top of the tower today.

Me and Kiyo's eyes widened. We had passed by that tower multiple times but avoided walking inside incase the boss was right there. I smiled, knowing that my suspicions were confirmed by this self-proclaimed knight. The other players in the crowd gasped in surprise.

Player #1- What!?

Player #2- Are you serious!?

Player #3- No way...

Diavel- First, we need to defeat the boss and make it to floor two. The next step will be to tell everyone waiting in the Town of Beginnings that it is possible to beat this game!

Thinking back to the Town of Beginnings, my thoughts shifted towards the people he had met: Klien, Kirito, Lisbeth & Silica. It would've been nice to know if they were still alive, and to pass on such good news if they were still waiting. Sadly, I had no idea of knowing whether or not if they were still alive or part of the two thousand people who have died. I shook my head, breaking my trance and focusing back on the meeting.

Diavel- Fact is, it's our duty as the most capable players here! Do you agree, or not?

The crowd took their time to respond, but when they did it was a positive response. Claps and whistles surrounded the area as the applauded the blue haired knight. Kiyo joined it and jumped for joy. I gave my respects and added my own small claps. 

This knight knows how to work a crowd. This is good. A good morale could really give us the advantage against the boss.

The cheers died down and gave way for another speech.

Diavel- Ok! Glad to hear you are all with me on this. Now, let's figure out how we're going to defeat the boss. First off, we'll team up into parties of six. A typical party doesn't stand a chance against a floor boss. We need a raid group, made up of multiple parties.

It wasn't long before the auditorium was all partied up. Kiyo looked at the crowd shocked and surprised.

Kiyo- Whoa! They sure figured that out quick. What are we going to do Papa?

I looked around the auditorium and noticed three other players. Two were sitting next to each other, a male and an unidentified figure with a brown hood over her head and her weapon's hilt sticking out from her cloak. Off to the distance was another figure with the same hood and similar weapon hilt poking out. I stood up with Kiyo and walked over to the duo, sitting down next to them. 

"Guess these guys all had friends to team up with huh?"

Male- Yea... I was shocked to see... hey wait a minute... haven't we met before?

"Um... I don't think so. Unless it was before the whole mirror thing at the launch of the game, I can't be sure."

Male- Yea that makes sense. Kirito, I think you helped me and Klein out on the first floor.

My eyes widened once more followed by a big smile at seeing someone I knew still alive.

"Kirito! Long time no see."

Kirito- I was hoping to see you here. I'm glad this game hasn't claimed you as one of its victims. I see you've made a new friend.

"Well actually, this is my adopted daughter Kiyo. Say hi little pup"

Kiyo- Hello Mr. Kirito! Nice to meet you.

Kirito- A pleasure to meet you as well Kiyo. You too Yoshi.

Kiyo leaned over my shoulder to address the hooded player behind Kirito.

Kiyo- And what's your name miss?

Hooded Figure #1- I'm sorry but I'd rather not give out my name at the moment.

Kiyo- Oh... ok...

"It's ok Kiyo. We don't have to know her name, as long as we can work together as a team. That is if it's ok with you two? Might be adding another member too."

Kirito- I suppose a decent group would be better than just the four of us. I'm game.

Hooded Figure #1- Sure. I don't mind.

I wasted no time sending the party invites to the pair of players. Once they accepted, two more smaller health bars appeared under the rest. The party now consisted of me, Kiyo, Kirito and one that stood out below Kirito's: "Asuna". Kiyo looked at the hooded figure closest to us and noticed her unmoving presence. Asuna must not be aware of the menu yet. Brushing her aside, I looked towards the hooded figure furthest from us. No one was near the player, allowing me to stand up and walk over towards her, slowly plopping next to her and trying to get her attention.

"So, you got left out too huh?"

Hooded Figure #2- More or less. I don't really know anyone here. Then again, I guess it's safe to say most of these people don't know anyone either.

"Perhaps, or maybe they came and joined together. Regardless, we have room for one more party member. Going solo on a floor boss is not the safest move."

Hooded Figure #2- Agreed.

"If being with strangers makes you uncomfortable, you wouldn't have to stick around once the fight is over."

It took her a moment to think about it, but she responded with a simple nod. After sending her a party invite, she accepted, and a final name appeared. Looking at the health bars, I noticed the name in between mine and Kiyo's: "Ashtry". I was about to speak to her again, but Kiyo appeared behind me and started tugging at my arm.

Kiyo- Papa hurry, Mister Diavel is about to start talking again.

I couldn't speak another word before Kiyo tugged me away from Ashtry and sat me down in our original seat. Every player turned their focus back to Diavel once more as he started to speak up.

Diavel- Alright, looks like everyone is teamed up! Now then...

?- Hold on a sec!

The crowd turned around and followed as a new player jumped down the steps of the auditorium, landed next to Diavel and skidded around to face the crowd. This player had short spiky orange hair and a very pissed off look to his face. He pointed at himself and addressed the crowd.

Orange Spikes- My name's Kibaou, got that? Before we take on the boss, I want to get something off my chest.

It must be important to interrupt a boss discussion. What's got him so riled up?

Kiyo- Papa, is everything ok?

"I don't know Kiyo. Let's listen to what he has to say."

Kibaou- We all know about the two thousand people who have died so far yea? Well, some of you need to apologize to them right now!

He pointed towards the crowd. Whispers could be heard among the different players and a shiver went up my spine. I knew who Kibaou was talking about. Diavel picked up on the notion as well.

Diavel- Kibaou, I think I know who you're referring to. You mean the ones who were ex beta testers right?

Kibaou- Well of course I mean them! The day this stupid ass game started, the beta guys just up and vanished right!? They ditched all of us beginners! They snagged all the good hunting spots, and they grabbed all the easy quests too! They were the only ones getting stronger in here! This whole time they have ignored us like we're nothing!

While it's true that I tried to stay near the best hunting spots to farm monsters and collected all of the quests on this floor doesn't mean anything! Those monsters respawn and the quests can be reactivated! This moron is calling out beta testers for no reason!

Kibaou- Hell, I bet there's some of them here! Come on out you beta testers! We should make them apologize to us and we should make them hand out their money and items they got! They can't expect the party to trust them when they don't trust us! Why should we!?

You idiot! You make it sound like beta testers are in allegiance with my father when there is a possibility that a few of those testers could be dead right now! My body is shaking, I have to say something!

?- Can I say something?

The entire crowd looked over to where the voice originated from and spotted a player standing up. He was a tall, bald African American man with a battle axe strapped to his back. He slowly walked down to face Kibaou, standing over him and leaving Kibaou in his shadow. A bead of sweat started to form atop Kibaou's forehead.

Bald Man- Hey, my name's Agil. Kibaou right? I want to make sure we're on the same page. You say the ex-beta testers should be blamed for the rookies' deaths because they didn't help them, and you want them to apologize and give up their winnings. Did I leave anything out?

Kibaou- No, you didn't.

Agil reached into his back pocket and pulled out a small book. The item caught my eye. It was a guidebook I had implemented into the game to help players who were struggling to defeat any type of enemy whether it be a boss or a simple monster.

Father kept that book in the game? Why? For what reason would he have to allow such a guide to exist?

Agil- The item store hands these out for free. It's a guidebook. You got one, didn't you?

Kibaou- Sure I got one, so what about it?

Agil- You know who was handing these out? The ex-beta testers.

The crowd started whispering amongst themselves again, wondering if the beta testers could really be trusted or not.

So that's why I've been seeing players out on the streets handing out those books. They are trying to keep the players informed about the dangers outside. Smart move, though it still doesn't make sense as to why the book is still in the game. I'm certain my father would've taken it out.

Agil turned to face the crowd and held the book up high for everyone to see.

Agil- Listen up! Everyone had equal access to this information. Even so, lots of players still died. Now I didn't come here to point fingers at anyone, I'm here because I want to learn from those players deaths. I'm here because I want to learn how we're going to defeat the boss!

Kiyo- It's a good thing we got two of those books huh Papa?

"A very good thing. We can use the information to come up with strategies to better defeat monsters in the field. We should take a look at it after the meeting."

Kiyo- Yes sir. 

Without another word from both Agil or Kibaou, they both walked back towards their seats and remained silent as well. Diavel pulled out the same book from his back pocket and resumed.

Diavel- Okay, can we get back to the meeting now?

The players in the auditorium nodded their heads and paid attention.

Diavel- For info on the boss, it's all in the here: The latest issue of the guidebook you just heard about. According to the book the boss' name is: "Illfang the Kobold Lord". Also, he'll be surrounded by his minions: "The Ruin Kobold Sentinels".

Kiyo- That name sounds familiar...

"They are like the monsters we fought in the cave when we were doing the ice cream quest. The only difference is that they'll have better equipment and more health, thus making them harder to kill. But squads like ours should be able to beat them no problem."

Kiyo- Got it! 

Diavel- Illfang carries an axe and a buckler. He has four health bars and when the last one turns red, he switches to a curved sword type weapon called a Talwar. It can change its patterns of attack too.

The players started whispering once more, taking notes on everything that Diavel just covered.

Kiyo- So Illfang will be using axe and shield techniques to begin with but then switch out his weapon to a two-handed sword type. That means we'll have to take note on different sets of sword skills right Papa?

"Correct. Depending on whether or not he drops his shield after the weapon change, his speed will either stay the same or dramatically increase. When he switches weapons, we need to assess the situation and plan ahead."

Kiyo- Understood!

We both shared a high five as Diavel closed the guidebook.

Diavel- That's it for the briefing. As for the distribution of loot, money will be divided equally among everyone. The party that defeats the boss gets the XP and whoever gets an item gets to keep it. Any objections?

No one in the crowd said anything, not even Kibaou. Taking this as a sign of agreement, Diavel motioned his hand towards the exits.

Diavel- Good, we leave tomorrow at ten in the morning. Meeting adjourned people!

The crowd dispersed. Some stayed to talk to their groups while some left and went back to the center of town. Turning towards my party, I noticed Kirito and Asuna walking off together while Ashtry was nowhere in sight. I figured she must've left to get some food and rest. Still, something about her felt... intriguing. I brushed the feeling off as Kiyo tugged at my sleeve again.

Kiyo- Papa, I'm hungry.

"I am too. Let's get some of that bread in town that you like."

Kiyo- Do we still have that cream we got from the quest giver in town!?

"We sure do. Come on let's go buy some food and read up on the boss."

Kiyo- Ok Papa!

An hour later, we had stuffed our faces with baked bread and read up a little about Illfang. Kiyo took interest in learning about the monsters' weak point, but my interests went elsewhere: the guidebook itself. It still shocked me that the book made its way to the game. It would seem counter intuitive to my father's plans if this gave out all the information on the bosses. It just didn't add up. My thought was derailed when Kiyo started yawning. I chuckled and placed the book back into my item storage.

"Come on little pup. Let's get you to bed."

Kiyo- But what about you Papa?

"I'm not tired just yet. There's something I want to check up on. It shouldn't take me long."

Kiyo- But what if you get hurt or need my help?

We walked inside of an inn and paid for a room. I carried Kiyo up the stairs, down the hallway and into our room. I set her down on the bed and tucked her in.

"I'm not going to leave town ok? I just want to make sure everything is on the up and up. I'll be back in a few minutes ok?"

Kiyo- Ok Papa... please stay safe...

"I will sweetheart. Now get some rest. You'll need it for tomorrow. 

In a matter of seconds, she was out like a light. I gave her a small kiss on the forehead, turned the lights in the room off and left the inn. I opened my menu, opened the party screen and clicked on Ashtry. My active searching skill came into play as my eyes shifted to a pale green color and a trail of footprints led towards the center of town. I followed the trail for a bit until I reached Ashtry, who was sitting alone in an alleyway, her hood still over her head. I deactivated the searching skill and walked up to her.

"Is this seat taken?"

She shook her head, and I sat down next to her. I noticed that once I sat down, she scooted herself away a few inches. Not that I minded, it was just unnecessary.

"Have you ever tried the bread in this town? Cover it up with some cream that can be gained in a quest and it's a nice delicacy for something made on the first floor."

Ashtry- I know. I've had that meal many times before.

"Sorry, I shouldn't have assumed that you didn't know about it already."

Ashtry- I'm used to that type of commentary, that's why I have the cloak. I don't want players assuming I don't know how to play just because I'm a girl.

"That wasn't my intention and I'm sorry if that's how you interpreted it."

Ashtry- It's ok... So... where's the kid? The little girl that was with you at the meeting.

"Oh, she got tired after we ate and read up on the boss. She's at the inn in town, sleeping."

Ashtry- She's joining us for the boss fight?

"Yes. If you are about to judge the kid for joining the fight, realize that if you don't want players assuming your skills because you're a girl, don't assume that she can't handle her own in a fight because she's a child."

Ashtry- If you trust your skills, that's the important part.

"Well said."

They sat in silence for a moment before she broke it with a question.

Ashtry- Kazzu, what's the reason you continue to fight on in this game, despite the fact that the odds are against you?

I had to think about that for a second. The main reason I kept fighting was because I have to stop my father from killing anymore people. But now that I had Kiyo and allies back at the Town of Beginnings, I have to fight because I want to keep them safe.

"I fight because not only do I need to fight to survive, but I have to because I have stop Kayaba from killing more people."

Ashtry- So your fight is like everyone else's. You want to leave.

"Not necessarily. Stopping Kayaba is... personal to me."

Ashtry- I see.

"What about you? Why do you continue to fight despite having this world against you?"

Ashtry- Something near and dear to me is on the line.

"And that would be?"

Ashtry- My life. I don't want other people to decide whether or not I live or die in this virtual hellhole. My decisions are my own. No one can take that from me.

"A very admirable cause. One that I hope everyone on this floor will realize after we defeat the boss."

Ashtry- And how do you know we'll win?

"Call it a hunch. But I get this feeling that we will live to see the second floor."

Ashtry- I hope you're right.

She stood up and made her way towards a different inn on the other side of town. I took a deep breath made my way back to Kiyo.

"Good talk Ashtry."

The next morning, Kiyo and I made our way towards the raiding party and met up with the group. Kirito and Asuna seemed to be discussing their own topic, while Ashtry was checking their gear. Kiyo walked up to Ashtry and stuck her hand out to her.

Kiyo- Hello Miss Ashtry! Thank you for joining our party! I didn't introduce myself before but I'm Kiyo!

Ashtry- It's nice to meet you Kiyo.

She shook Kiyo's hand and turned her attention towards me. Realizing that she was thinking about the conversation from last night, I gave her a nod of confirmation that everything will be ok. She gave me a small smile and went back to checking her gear. I then knelt down next to Kiyo and placed a hand on her shoulder.

"Ok Kiyo I want you to listen to me very carefully ok. I've been ok with you handling monsters on your own, but I mean it when I say that if this boss is too much for us to handle, you are to run away from the fight and go as fast as you can back to town. Do not turn back no matter what happens do you understand?"

Kiyo- Yes Papa... I understand.

"That being said, I don't plan on just laying down and letting the boss hit me. Let's go kick its butt!"

Kiyo- Right!

The small army of players started to make their way out of town and towards the boss lair. Each group walking at their own pace and sticking close to their members. Kiyo was joyfully skipping slightly ahead of us.

Kirito- Let's go over the plan. We're the backup, so our targets are going to be the boss' minions: The Ruin Kobold Sentinels.

Asuna- I know.

Kiyo- Aw, we won't be fighting the boss itself? Why not?

"Because little pup, we were assigned to defeat the boss' minions and then attack Illfang whenever we can."

Ashtry- Plus it's video game basics: Take down the minions so they don't bother you while attacking the boss. If the minions are out of the way, they won't have a chance to distract the team dealing damage to the boss.

Kirito- The minions have very heavy weaponry. They hit like a truck but are very slow at attacking. We'll draw their attacks with patience and strike when the time is right.

Kiyo- Oh, that makes sense.

I gave my teammates a smirk. I was glad the squad wasn't totally new to the concepts of gaming. 

Kirito- Me and Kazzu will use our sword skills to knock the enemy's weapons out of the way. When we do, you three switch and jump in.

Kiyo- Got it!

Asuna- What's a switch?

Kirito, Kiyo and I looked at her confused. Kazzu didn't know about Ashtry, but surely Asuna would know about switches by now.

Kirito- Ok you two, level with me. Is this your first time in a party?

Asuna- Uh huh.

Ashtry- VR party yes.

Kirito started to drag behind in shock. I chuckled as he sighed in defeat. 

Kirito must have thought that he made the wrong choice in joining this group. 

I walked up behind him and wrapped my arm around his shoulder.

"Cheer up Kirito. It's an easy mechanic to teach. These two will be masters in the art of switching before we even get to the boss room."

Kirito- Are you sure?

"Absolutely. While we keep walking to the boss room, listen to everything Kiyo says. I taught her everything I know about the skill. Kiyo, the floor is yours."

They started to follow the rest of the boss raiding squad. As they did, Ashtry and Asuna walked behind Kiyo as she was explaining the switch mechanic to them while walking backwards.

Kiyo- So, how a switch works is simple. One person attacks a monster and counters a sword skill with their own. Once the skills connect, the enemy is stunned for a short amount of time. During that time, another player jumps in and uses a sword skill of their own. Not only will the skill deal more damage than before but both players regain a small amount of HP. Then the cycle basically repeats. Sounds easy right?

Asuna- Wow, you sure know your stuff kid.

Ashtry didn't say anything and instead gave Kiyo a smile and an acknowledging nod.

"Couldn't have said it better myself Kiyo. And right as we made it to the boss tower. Well done."

Kiyo- Thank you Papa.

Just as Diavel had confirmed, the tower was completely empty. No minions in sight. It was an easy climb up to the top of the tower, towards a large metal door leading to the boss room. Diavel stopped short of the door, planting his sword in the ground and facing the crowd.

Diavel- Listen up everyone, I've only got one thing to say to you: Let's win.

Most of the crowd simply nodded towards the acclaimed knight. I looked down at Kiyo and patted her head, hoping to give her a small sense of comfort. Her determined smile towards me confirmed that she was ready. Kirito and Asuna remained silent while Ashtry's grip on her weapon tightened. The loud groaning of the doors swinging open turned our focus towards the huge dim lit room. As the raid group slowly made their way inside, the room suddenly sparked with light. A small grunt ahead of us grew closer as a giant Kobold came crashing down in front of the raiding team. It readied it weapons and gave off a loud roar which echoed through the room. Illfang the Kobold Lord was ready to fight. Several Kobold Sentinels spawned in next to Illfang and together they charged at the party, set on ending more lives.

Not going to happen today ugly!

Diavel- Commence the attack!

The players all charged in towards the group of kobolds and soon the battle had truly begun. Clangs of metal clashing against metal could be heard in all directions. Thuds of shields colliding with shields danced along like bass drums. Illfang was luckily not with his minions, instead dealing with two other attacking squads. This gave opportunities for supporting parties to drive the minions away from the raid. Kiyo and I handled our own minions while Asuna and Ashtry fought alongside each other. Kirito was on the offensive as he cut the minions down before they even had a chance to reach him while making sure that any that got close to us regretted their actions.

Diavel- Squads A and C, switch in!

The named squads did what they were told and replaced the previous team, who retreated to regain a little bit of their strength. Illfang responded by attacking the new squad and letting out another roar.

Diavel- Here it comes! Squad B, block!

Illfang swung his axe down but was met with a smaller axe swinging upward, stunning the giant boss for a while. I took a second to look over and see Agil with his axe, who had just countered Illfang and was ready to strike. Kibaou followed suit and hit Illfang with his own sword skill.

"Nice switch guys. Keep it up!"

Diavel- Squad C, keep guarding and prepare to switch. Everyone else, when you fall back, regroup and flank them. Squad's D, E, and F, keep those minions off of us!

Kirito- Yea, you got it.

"No problem!"

Kiyo- Yes sir!

Asuna- Right!

Ashtry- Piece of cake!

Kirito ran towards another Kobold Sentinel, blocking its weapon and calling out for a switch. Asuna darted towards the defenseless monster and instantly killed it with a lunging sword skill. For someone who sounded like a beginner, she had some skill. No one could barely see her sword as she shattered the Kobold in front of her. Another Sentinel spawned in the air and dived towards Kirito.

"Heads up Kirito!"

Kirito turned around and jumped out of the way, only taking a little bit of damage. He recovered quickly and charged towards it.

Kirito- Ashtry, Kiyo get ready!

Kiyo- Coming!

Ashtry- On my way!

Kirito slashed at the monster once again, sending it into the air. Not having to call anything out, Kiyo jumped off his shoulders where she proceeded to stab the monster back down to the ground. This gave room for Ashtry to leap into the air and stab into it repeatedly, shattering it flawlessly. Another roar caught the attention of the group as they turned back to see Illfang on its last health bar, colored in a dark crimson. 

This was it; it was going to switch weapons.

"Stay sharp guys. Different sword skills are about to be used."

A silent confirmation was gifted to me as the giant Kobold threw away it's axe and shield.

Its speed will increase but without any defense. It's basically a glass cannon now.

Kibaou- Looks like the guidebook was right.

Diavel- Stand back! I got it!

Diavel pushed his way past the group and stood to face the monster alone. I smirked at his bravery but immediately withdrew his smile as the battle plan crawled back into his memory.

"Wasn't the plan to have everyone surround it?" 

Kazzu caught a glimpse of Diavel. He slightly narrowed his eyes at him and gave off a sly smirk. Kazzu took a breath as he realized what he was doing.

"You clever bastard..."

Diavel readied a sword skill, prepared to finish the monster off, only to be met by Illfang pulling out his secondary weapon. There was just one problem. The weapon was different than what the guidebook had stated. My eyes widened as I examined the blade.

That's not a Talwar, it's an Odachi! Shit! I knew there was something off about that damned book! It's not like the beta at all!

Blocking another attack from Sentinels and pushing it away from me, I turned my attention towards Diavel.

"Diavel stop! It's a different weapon, get out of there!"

His advice went unheeded. Diavel persisted on killing the boss that he could barely notice the behemoth leapt into the air. Its speed was too much for Diavel to handle as he couldn't find the damn thing. I, however, could see it leaping from pillar to pillar until it started to come down on top of Diavel. His eyes widened, his defenses lowered, he was going to die.

Kibaou- Diavel no!

Illfang swung downward. Diavel braced himself for a devastating blow...

But it never came. The sound of a hard metallic clang echoed throughout the room. Diavel looked up only to be met with a miracle.

Diavel- You...

My shield raised high but the strain from the behemoth was getting to me.

I won't let this thing beat us and take the lives of the innocent. I won't allow it!

"Kiyo! Switch!"

As if she was in the middle of an attack, she sliced the overgrown Kobold's legs followed by Ashtry using a repeated stabbing motion to get Illfang to back away. The others in the raid quickly followed suit to assist Kiyo and Ashtry, while Asuna and Kirito joined me as I fell to my knees.

Asuna- Are you ok?

"Yea. Just a lot of weight to go up against. Bastard needs to lose few pounds if I'm being honest. That sword may not look heavy but thanks to that Kobold's strength, my legs feel like jelly..."

Kirito looked at Diavel, his head hanging down low.

Kirito- What were you thinking? Doing a stunt like that?

Diavel- Shouldn't you two know by now? You guys were beta testers too, right?

This shocked Kirito but confirmed my suspicions. After accepting a health potion that Asuna had offered him, I turned my focus to Diavel. His eyes staring into mine like a deep personal connection.

"Yea. I knew what you were doing. You were trying to get the last attack bonus, were you?"

Kirito- The rare item. You're just like us, a beta tester.

Kirito offered a hand to Diavel. He accepted it, standing up with a bit of help from me and Kirito. I kept a hold on his arm and stared him down.

"Listen... when this game started, I was only out for myself. My own goal mattered more than anyone. Even though that goal is to save the people trapped in this game, I didn't much care for anyone in it. Then... I started helping people. Giving food to the orphanage, offering help to rookie players and even adopting a kid. They gave me the realization that you need people to trust you in order to survive."

Diavel- But I...

"Just listen. These players... they believed in you; they're inspired by you despite showing hatred towards beta testers. If they knew what you were doing, they would detest you and lose all hope in everything you wanted them to believe."

Diavel grunted as he lowered his head. He obviously felt ashamed for his action though I could hardly blame him. Grabbing the last attack bonus was a seriously sweet drop. If not for its better stats, then it had good resell value in order to buy better gear. However, it's not worth killing yourself over, especially now.

"Diavel, I want you to promise that you'll unite these people, rookies and beta testers alike. Because no matter how much they may disagree with each other, they need one another. Can you promise me that?"

It took him a second to answer, but a serious silent nod gifted him the answer. I let go of his arm, turning my attention to Illfang along with Kirito, Kiyo and Ashtry. Kiyo and Ashtry looked fine, in spite of the fact that Ashtry took a bit of a beating. 

Kazzu- You two ok?

Kiyo- Miss Ashtry took a bit of a scratch defending me but otherwise we are ok.

Asuna- Need healing Ashtry?

Ashtry- Just a flesh wound, I'll be fine.

I took another look at her health bar. Her health was lower than before but not by much. She was still in the green. Using a healing item on her under those circumstances would be a waste. Plus, I believed her when she said she was fine.

"Alright then. We'll go in and attack the boss. No holding back alright?"

Group- Right!

We all rushed in after Illfang, our footsteps clattering on the ground in almost perfect synchronization. With our weapons drawn, our guards raised, this boss was going down one way or another.

Kirito- We'll attack it just like the minions!

Asuna- You got it.

"Me and the others will handle dealing damage to it, you two just focus on keeping it stunned. Kiyo, Ashtry, I want everything you got!"

Kiyo- Roger that!

Ashtry- Let's end this!

"Keep note of it's sword! His movement speed has increased so there might be a chance that it's attack might have as well."

Illfang took notice of us running towards it. It readied a sword skill and rushed in to take us on. Both Kirito and Asuna prepared a sword skill, clashing it against Illfang's own weapon.

Kirito- Switch!

Ashtry, Kiyo and I leapt in and blew Illfang away with our combined strength. I followed up the attack by blocking the beast with my, parrying its attack.

"Switch!"

Asuna leaped over me and was prepared to unleash her own skill. Unfortunately, Illfang recovered and prepared to swipe its blade at her. Luckily, he didn't get the chance to damage her as Ashtry came in and knocked Asuna out of the way. The only thing to get damaged however were the cloaks they were wearing, revealing what they truly looked like. Asuna had long, orange-brownish chestnut hair with piercing hazel eyes. Ashtry on the other hand had shoulder length pale honey hair and calm light sage green eyes.

They both reacted to their destroyed clothing by using a combined sword skill and propelling the big boss back. I snap out of my trance and rush towards them, followed by Kiyo and Kirito. The group rushed at the beast again, trading blows and countering its attacks. When Kirito went to counter it, however, it changed the direction of its attack. This resulted in Kirito being slashed across the chest and knocked back into the rest of the group, taking us down with him. Kirito and Asuna both looked at their health bar, which drained itself halfway. Another attack like that and they were done for. The group barely had time to react before Illfang was on top of us, ready to smash us with his weapon. I quickly raised my shield and waited for his attack, but a light green flash flew above us, countering the skill and pushing it back. Agil stood in front of us with a small smile on his face.

Agil- We can hold this bastard off until your health is back up!

Kirito responded with a smile of his own, a bead of sweat dropping down his head from the near-death experience.

Kirito- You've got it.

The group stayed and defended Kirito while he regained his strength. It didn't take long until Illfang started to overpower the players that switched in to attack. It leapt up into the air once more, targeting Agil who had dropped his weapon. Not risking another deadly attack, I stood up and rushed towards the air bound monster. Loosening the straps on my shield, I hurled it towards Illfang and prepared another sword skill. Illfang didn't see it coming as my shield collided with his face. I used this moment of distraction to use the sword skill: "Sonic Leap". My blade cutting through Illfang like butter, causing it to spin around and land a few feet on the opposite side. Running towards my shield, I scooped it up and raised it up high.

Kazzu- Ashtry, help me beat this freak. One more solid attack should do it!

Ashtry responded to the command and rushed in alongside me. Her honey hair flowing behind her.

Ashtry- Got it!

The two of us sped towards him like blinding lights. Illfang had no time to react before we started unloading all we had into him. Swing after swing, skill after skill, switching repeatedly over and over until it dropped its weapon. Charging up another sword skill, I jumped towards the monster and activated the skill: "Vertical". His blade buried itself into Illfang's hip and started to drag itself upwards through its stomach, above its chest until finally it emerged from the roof of its skull. The goliath stayed in the air for a few seconds until it finally exploded into a monstrous shatter, its digital body destroyed. The room went silent for a few seconds, we waited for another enemy to come out, another trap to respawn, anything to tell us that the fight wasn't over but there was nothing. Instead, right above where the boss stood, a giant "Congratulations" text appeared indicating that the boss was truly dead. The silence was broken by players cheering and crying tears of joy, knowing that they had survived the encounter, and they could move on to the second floor. The lights in the room dimmed, acknowledging that its master was defeated. The group took a moment to catch their breath as a small text box appeared in front of me.

You have received the last attacking bonus: Armor of the Dark Cross.

Well, that's not occult as hell. Still, should serve me well in the long run.

Kiyo- Papa! We did it!

A huge force tackled me from behind and wrapped their arms around me. I didn't have to look back to know Kiyo had just jumped and hugged me from behind.

Asuna- Nice job.

Agil- That was some fine swordsmanship. Congratulations, today's victory is all thanks to you.

"No... it wasn't."

Player #1- Yea man!

Player #2- You rock dude!

Player #3 - That was amazing!

Kibaou- Stop cheering!

The crowd went silent and turned over to Kibaou, who was holding onto Diavel with an arm wrapped around his shoulder.

Kibaou- Why did you do it!? Why did you risk Diavel's life like that!?

"Risk... his life?"

Kibaou- That's what I said. Admit it, you knew the technique the boss was going to use. You could've told us! Then Diavel might've not gotten hurt! He wouldn't have to have almost died!

Diavel- Kibaou... I was fully aware of what I was getting myself into.

Player #1- I know why he knew! He used to be a beta tester! Think about it, he knew the bosses attack patterns! He knew and he kept it from us! And I bet he's not the only beta tester in here! Come on show yourselves!

The crowd stood quiet as they looked at one another. They were starting to doubt who to trust again, regardless of the fact that they had no idea who was a beta tester or not. 

This was bad. At this rate they would tear each other apart just to maim the beta testers. 

I knew that I couldn't let that happen.

Ashtry- Who cares if he was a beta tester or not. He saved Diavel, didn't he!?

I need them to work together to increase their chances of survival. They had to work together. If anything, he the one they should be casting blame on. 

My eyes widened, my heart skipped a beat, my throat went dry, and I knew what I had to do. I looked at the item dropped by the last attack bonus one more time.

If these people want a monster, I'll give them a monster.

Agil- Hey, calm down.

A maniacal laugh surrounded the room. Everyone turned to face me as I slowly ascended from the ground.

"So... you guys think I used to be a beta tester? Well, it's disgraceful to put me on the same level as those weaklings."

Kibaou- What did you say!?

"You heard me loud and clear. The thousand people who scored a slot in this game were complete novices. They were so new to the game that they barely knew how to get stronger. Hell, you guys were better than they were, although they set the bar pretty low. But me? I'm on a whole new level. Not only was I the only beta tester who made it to the highest point during the open beta, but I know more about any of the floors than any information broker can tell you. Their information is like poetry when it comes to my knowledge."

Kibaou- What the hell? If that's true than you're worse than a beta tester, you're a goddamn cheater that's what you are!

Player #1- Yea a cheater!

Player #2- A beta tester!

Player #3- A cheater and a beta tester, a Beater!

"If anyone of you call me a cheater, a beta tester or a beater again I'll happily slit your own throats!"

The crowd went silent again. I looked at Kiyo who looked scared and confused as to what I was saying. I looked towards Kirito and Asuna, who were glaring me down as if they were planning to attack at any moment. I looked to Diavel and he knew where I was going with this speech. The line I was about to cross to where rookies and beta testers would band together instead of fighting amongst themselves was a line I could walk back from. The last person I looked at was Ashtry. Her expression was that of curiosity, frustration and an eager desire to know what I would do next. This was it.

No going back now.

"Like I said, I'm leagues above them. No beta tester could ever have the skills high enough to beat me. The reason why I know what I know isn't because I'm a beta tester or a cheater. No, it's way worse. The reason why I know everything about this game is because I was the one who helped develop it. I'm the co-creator of Sword Art Online and the son of Kayaba Akihiko: Kazzu Akihiko!"

The crowd gasped and stepped away from me in shock. They all had their hands on their weapons with the exception of Agil, Kirito, Asuna, Kiyo, and Ashtry.

Kibaou- No... No way! You helped make this hellhole!? You helped trap us in here!? Why shouldn't we kill you where you stand!?

"Because as I've stated before, the beta testers have nothing on the number of skills and knowledge I have. So, what makes you think any of you could swing your blade before you hit the ground, shattered to pieces?"

They gave no response. They slowly backed away from their weapons. They looked down at the floor distraught, depleted of hope.

Kibaou- So that's it... we'll be stuck here forever?

"Not necessarily."

Kibaou- What?

"You see, I'm here for one simple reason. My father decided to live all high and mighty up at the top of this floating hunk of steel and didn't bring me along to enjoy the spoils of our creation. Because of this, I'm going to personally see to his execution and claim Aincrad as my own. Anyone who gets in my way, shall see their permanent end."

I opened the inventory menu and equipped the "Armor of the Dark Cross". Within seconds the armor molded itself onto my body, Kiyo slowly approaching behind me and hiding behind my leg. I planted my sword into the ground and gave off a deadly frown addressed to the crowd. I turned my back to the crowd and walked towards the staircase leading to the second floor, gently holding onto Kiyo's shaking hand and dragging her along with me.

Kiyo- Papa? Did... you mean what you said? Are you really going to kill people?

"Of course not sweetheart. I needed to say that so they would focus their anger on me and not on each other."

Kiyo- But why? Now they'll want you dead!

"If that's what it takes for them to cooperate with each other, then so be it. But I swear to you, I would never ever follow in my father's footsteps. There is so much I need to tell you Kiyo, but I ask you to be patient with me. Any questions you have when we are in a safer place, I'll gladly answer ok?"

Kiyo nodded her head quietly and she wiped a tear away from her eyes. I didn't want to scare her like that, but it was a necessary evil. I knew I would have to make it up to her big time. As we reached the top of the stairs, I was about to open the doors to the second floor, when a different pair of footsteps could be heard.

Kirito- Hey Kazzu!

I stopped for a second and turned around. Kirito was in front of me with a very angry look on his face. If looks could kill, he could murder.

Kirito- Why did you do it!? Why did you allow your father to trap these people!? Why kill us for a video game world!?

Kiyo was starting to get scared, once again retreating behind my leg. I glared at the other swordsman and sneered.

"Like I said before you pawn, I'm out to kill my father. I'm not your enemy."

Kirito- You plan on taking his throne after his death! Nothing will change, we'll still be trapped under your rule!

"Use your infantile brain for a moment Kirito! If my father removed all of my access to the game and shut me away with the rest of you, do you really believe I could take control of Aincrad?"

Kirito- What?

"Once the boss at the top of the tower is defeated, that's it. The game is over. Everyone is free to leave."

Kirito- You're lying! Why else would you say what you said if it weren't true?

"You tell me."

Kirito- Why you..

"Let me offer some advice Kirito, as a gift."

He went silent and allowed me to say my piece.

"I've seen your type before. Better off alone, a lone wolf, a solo player. I highly advise that you abandon that mentality in this game. If ever the day comes where someone close to you invites you to join a guild, don't turn it down. Maybe speak to Klein, I'm sure he'll be more than happy to accept you into his band of friends. Hell, if Asuna decides to tag along or start a guild with you, the more the merrier. There are limits to what a solo player can do. Don't go and walk down that road."

Kirito- What about you? Even though you have Kiyo, won't you two be playing as solo players?

Nothing more was said as I turned my back to him and walked through the identical looking metal doors, Kiyo walking right beside me. Floor two was upon the horizon and only one player had died. Kazzu Akihiko was dead and in his place:

Was the Dark Prince.