Koharu, Level 148.

Year 2024, June 24. Aincrad Standard Time in 15:00. Floor 48, Lisbeth's Smith Shop in Lindarth..

*Metal Screeching noise*

Lisbeth just finished sharpening Asuna's Rapier, Lambent Light. With the spinning whetstone powered by the Waterwheels around the Main Town. When she's at it, Koharu is taking care of the counter for the upcoming customers.

Lisbeth: There you go! All done!

She hands the Lambent Light to Asuna.

Asuna: You're the best, Liz! Thanks..

Lisbeth: Sure, anytime!

Asuna: So how's Koharu doing?

Lisbeth: She's doing great. She's been helping me a lot with the materials gathering.

Asuna: Glad to hear.. She's doing really fine without him.

Lisbeth: Yeah.. I wonder how's he doing. And hey, aren't you supposed to be out hunting with the guild today?

She smiles and blushes a bit..

Asuna: Yeah, I had to take the day off cuz I sort of have this little meeting with someone.

Lisbeth: Hm?

She notices an earring on Asuna. Then, she teases her as she gets the point.

Lisbeth: Hehe.. I see, I see...

Her expression creeps Asuna out.

Asuna: W-What do you see?

Then, a bell rings Asuna that she's late for the meeting.

Asuna: I gotta hurry!

She hurries herself for the meeting. Before she goes, Lisbeth murmurs..

Lisbeth: So you've found someone precious too after Koharu did...

Asuna: Huh? Did you say something?

Lisbeth snaps out from it.. And additionally teases Asuna before she goes for the little meeting.

Lisbeth: Nope, it's nothing! Good luck with your date!

Asuna: It's not like that! Anyway, see you later!

Lisbeth: *nod*

She exits out to the front. Koharu sees her off as well as she just saw Asuna hurried for the meeting.

Koharu: Oh? You're going already, Asuna?

Asuna: Yeah, I have a meeting with Kirito. So see you later!

Koharu: Good luck!

Asuna exits out the shop... Koharu went back to the Blacksmith Room. Lisbeth seems to be staring at the photo pinned at the bulletin board. A picture of her, smiling with three other Blacksmith Players.

Koharu: How's it going, Lisbeth?

Her presence had startled the Blacksmith.

Lisbeth: Ah! You should have knocked first!

Koharu: Oh! Sorry!

Lisbeth: It's okay.. So anyone's coming?

She shakes her head..

Koharu: No.. Today's pretty quiet, don't you think?

Lisbeth: Yeah.. The metal's prices are rising up somehow recently. It's kinda difficult for the customers who had been using our services.

Koharu: I agree, hope someone would visit here.

Lisbeth: Yeah..

She suddenly remembers that the Oathkeeper might still be visiting them anytime.

Lisbeth: Hey.. What about your "Guardian"? Would he be coming as well?

Koharu: Yeah.. He just messaged me not too long ago.. He said he would come in tomorrow.

Lisbeth: Sweet! I better get my Refinement Level raised up so I won't disappoint him!

She smiles...

Koharu: That's great!

Lisbeth: But you have to help me with the Materials again. Sorry to say, Koharu..

Koharu: It's okay. As long as you get to raise your Level. I'm sure he'll be satisfied by your efforts, along with your services.

Lisbeth: Hope he does! I'll show him how a Master Smith really does! And you'll be helping me as my partner!

Koharu: Ehh!? But.. I'm sure I'm already someone else's. But I guess I can do that for the time being.. ^^

She blushes as she talks about her long lost partner.. Lisbeth murmurs out as she pouts..

Lisbeth: *Pouts* That's what I always wish for...

The next day... June 25th.

Lisbeth starts practicing on crafting a higher potential Swords with the metals. Thanks to the metals Koharu brought.. She's able to craft weapons with more higher quality and potential points. She inspects the sword she just crafted and gives herself a comment.

Lisbeth: Not too shoddy, what do you think?

Koharu: I guess.. It's not bad. It looks sharper than before.

Lisbeth: *Pouts* You said that all the time, Koharu..

Koharu: Sorry. ^^" I can't really tell the difference between them!

Then, a door bell rings them that a customer has enter.

Koharu: Oh! Someone's coming! It must be him!

Lisbeth: You should deal with that. I'll come out after getting my things done here.

Koharu: Okay!

She heads out to the front as Koharu was excited and expectedly to see Oathkeeper again. But it was Kirito who just entered the store instead of him. She got curious.

Koharu: Kirito? You're here too?

Kirito: Oh hey, Koharu. How's your doing?

Koharu: Pretty fine as usual! But what brought you here?

Kirito: I came here because Asuna recommended to me. And I'd like to order a custom-made sword. A quality that matches mine or even better.

Koharu: I see..

Kirito: So where's the Blacksmith?

Koharu: She's busy forging swords, but will be here soon. Oh, there she is!

Then, Lisbeth just came out for handling the customer after finishing her stuffs.

Lisbeth: Welcome to Lisbeth's Smith Shop!

Kirito: Oh! Uhm... I'd like to order a custom-made sword.

Lisbeth: ?

She inspects Kirito, his unimpressive appearances made her concerned about his wealth. Koharu looks curious about her reaction.

Koharu: ?

Lisbeth: The metal prices have been rising... You sure you have enough cash for it?

Kirito: Don't worry about the money. I just want you to forge me the best sword you can right now.

Lisbeth: Well, you'll need to tell me what stats you want for your sword first.

Kirito: I see.. Then, could you try to make its stats at least as good as this sword?

He hands her the Demon Sword, Elucidator. Before he drops it to Lisbeth to test the weight of it. The Oathkeeper came in.

Lisbeth: Ah! Welcome!

Koharu: Oathkeeper!

Kirito: Huh? You're here too?

Oathkeeper: Am I not welcomed here?

Kirito: No! No! That's not what I mean! I mean I never thought we would have the chance to see each other again! Especially, after the murder case had been solved!

Oathkeeper: True enough.. I came here to do a little window shopping. And don't mind me, Lisbeth.

Lisbeth: *nod* Okay!

Kirito: (Can't believe they all knew each other so well.)

Lisbeth: Are you gonna drop it?

Kirito: Oh! Sure..

He drops it and Lisbeth can feel the weight of it a bit heavy than she thought. An info stats of it pops out and she reads it.

Lisbeth: The Elucidator.. This probably counts as a Demon Sword amongst monster drops.

Kirito: Can you do it?

Lisbeth: Uhm...

She takes out her Masterpiece sword to him and explains it proudly.

Lisbeth: Try this. This is the best one I've ever forged.

He swings it as for a testing.

Koharu: So how is it?

Kirito: Uhm.. It feels a bit too light..

Oathkeeper: Be grateful that she forged it with Speed-type metal for it. So it's easy for you to land a hit.

Kirito: Yeah but it's easy for you to break my sword.

Oathkeeper: Yep.. In case if we clashed up and ended up having a rematch again.

Kirito: ...Sorry.. The Black Swordsman is no match for the Oathkeeper.. Even working with Lightning Flash won't be enough to take you on.

Oathkeeper: True enough, glad you accept the fact.

Their rivalry sparks between them, it scares out the Blacksmith and the Top Tier Player.

Koharu: I don't remember the time that they had officially become rivals. *Sweatdropped*

Lisbeth: So scary..

Kirito: Anyway, can I test it out?

Lisbeth: Oh! Test what?

Kirito: You know.. Its durability.

Lisbeth: Huh?

Koharu: What are you gonna do?

Kirito grabs the Demon Sword and he is about to swing her Masterpiece on it for the test.

Lisbeth: Wait! If you do that, your swords's gonna break!

Kirito: Let's worry about afterwards!

As he swings her sword to the Elucidator, the blade lands Oathkeeper's hand and he grabs the blade part like a stick to stop the swing. He sighs as Koharu lectures him..

Koharu: Good grief...! You're still reckless as ever..!

Kirito: Why? I just wanna test it out.

Oathkeeper: She forged it with her pride, are you sure you want to break that as well? Along with her Masterpiece?

Kirito: Uhm.. Then how did you figured out it's gonna break?

He turns to her..

Oathkeeper: You said you forged it with Speed type metal, just like other weapons, isn't it Liz?

Lisbeth: Yeah, what about it?

Oathkeeper: For your information, it reduces its durability and endurance but makes the sword very easy to wield and increases damage output. With lesser Equip points so you can carry other Equipments.

She went speechless..

Lisbeth: ..That's actually correct tho.. I forgot about that.

She sounds excited as she admires him..

Koharu: Wow.. He's so knowledgeable..

The Oathkeeper returns the Masterpiece back to its owner.

Oathkeeper: You should find a better Materials for him..

Lisbeth: Uhm.. Thanks, Oathkeeper. I think I got the right jam for this reckless one.

She glares at Kirito..

Lisbeth: So you think my sword, my Masterpiece isn't good enough as yours?

Kirito: No! Actually.. Yeah.. It might be.. After hearing what the Oathkeeper said.

Lisbeth: Well it's true but for your information. If I have the right materials, I can make something better than yours.

Kirito: Oh, I would definitely want one of those.

She pouts..

Lisbeth: Hmph. Then, you'll have to stick around for the whole process.

Kirito: The whole process?

Lisbeth: Yeah, starting from the gathering of the materials!

Kirito: I think I can do that alone. And you might get in my way.

Koharu: Kirito! Don't say that to her! She's also an Expert Macer!

Lisbeth: Thanks, Koharu.. I guess I'll do the talking from here.

Kirito: Oh? And where do we get the materials?

Lisbeth: The west mountain on Floor 55. I heard there's a dragon that eats crystals.

He explains it all..

Oathkeeper: X'rphan the White Wyrm.. You're planning to get a rare metals from its body?

Lisbeth: That's right! You really know everything, Oathkeeper!

Kirito: You're just showing off, aren't you?

Oathkeeper: At least I don't judge someone's strength just by their appearances.

They both sweatdropped..

Koharu: *Sweatdropped*

Lisbeth: These two..

Kirito: Floor 55, huh? I should really go alo-

Before he goes, Oathkeeper grabs his coat to stop him.

Oathkeeper: I'm not interested of becoming your rival. But we need a Master Smith to collect the metal.

Kirito: Really? -_-

Lisbeth: The Oathkeeper's said it right. You need a Master Smith to get it.

Oathkeeper: So do you still want to go alone?

Kirito: ...

Koharu: I don't get it.. Why the quest required a Smith if it's just gathering materials?

Oathkeeper: If we just beat it, it'll just drop some useless gears and weaker metals. My guess is, only Smith has the ability to extract the rare metals from its body. But still, it doesn't make any sense tho. So I can't disagree with you there.

Koharu: Alright, I think Oathkeeper and I are up for this. So are you two ready for this?

Kirito sighs and turns to Lisbeth..

Kirito: Well.. Just behave yourself..

Lisbeth: You piss me off! 💢

Kirito: My name's Kirito. Let's work together at least until the sword is completed.

She flings her head away and repeats his name in sarcastic.

Lisbeth: I'm looking forward to this, Kirito.

Kirito: I hope we'll get along well... Oh, whatever. Lisbeth.

Lisbeth: *Pouts*

She pouts and the Oathkeeper sighs..

Oathkeeper: I instantly regret this decision...

Koharu: I hate to admit it.. But yeah.. I think just the two of us should be fine..

Timeskip... Aincrad Standard Time in 18:00. West Mountain: Side.

The cold weather of the floor is now in -17°c. The girls start sneezing by the cold temperature as they proceed.

Koharu: It's so freezing here.. I totally forgot about the weather in this floor.

Oathkeeper: Here..

When the Oathkeeper is about to take off the coat.. She stops him..

Koharu: Wait! What about you? You'll feel cold!

Oathkeeper: ...

As he strips out, Koharu realizes there was another coat inside the coat he just took out and hand it to her..

Koharu: You wore two layers!?

Oathkeeper: It still warms anyway... Let me put you on..

Koharu: Oh.. Okay.. But I think I can do it by my-

Oathkeeper: ...

Despite her resistance, he gently just wraps the coat around her, helping her by putting it onto her. Koharu feels the warmth immediately..

Koharu: (Wow.. It's so warm..! The coat filled with his heat..!)

Then, he gently holds her hand before they continue their hiking.

Oathkeeper: Let's keep going...

She blushed but nodded immediately..

Koharu: Oh.. Okay..

She keeps up with him together. Slowly, she starts to recognize the feelings..

Koharu: (Lai did the same to me in .. And now.. It's him.. The guy I don't even know..)

They both manage to keep up ahead of Kirito. On the other side, Lisbeth feels jealous about them holding hands like couple. Kirito slows down and notices her who is been falling behind..

Lisbeth: *Grunts* *Sneeze!* I'm freezing...

Kirito: Don't you have any extra clothes?

Lisbeth: I didn't know Floor 55 would be this cold..

Then, Kirito simply just tosses his coat to Lisbeth. She still feels unsatisfied by him compared to how the Oathkeeper treated Koharu.

Lisbeth: *Grunt*

Kirito: Not enough warmth?

Lisbeth: Ah! No! Will you be all right?

Kirito: We're born different. That's all I can say..

She grunts even more..

Lisbeth: Every word that comes out of his mouth really pisses me off.

As she puts it on, she feels the warmth as well..

Lisbeth: It's so warm... I can't believe I'm out in the boondocks alone with this guy... This has definitely turned into a weird situation.

Kirito: What's wrong, Lisbeth? At your limit already?

She retorts back..

Lisbeth: I'm still fine! Also, if we're pretending to be buddy-buddy, just call me Liz!

Kirito: As you wish, Liz.

Lisbeth: Don't get cocky!

She keeps up with Kirito.. Koharu whispers to her partner in their chat..

Koharu: They both got along really well..

Oathkeeper: Harem isn't my type..

Koharu: Yeah.. Asuna and Sachi are both obviously has a crush on him.. But he's still hanging with other girls tho. I'm just glad that I didn't ended up just like them..

Oathkeeper: I'm relieved then..

She looks away and blushes..

Koharu: Because you know.. I'm already fell into someone else...

Oathkeeper: ...

He stops there all in a sudden..

Koharu: Oathkeeper?

Oathkeeper: Don't keep your hopes up.. That guy.. He might had done something worse that it can't be acceptable for you..

Koharu: How did you know?

Oathkeeper: Because you're too kind to know..

Koharu: ...

He continues back ahead of her.. She stops there for a while as she feels clueless about what he said.. Her hearts feels being pricked by an unseen needle.

Koharu: Oathkeeper...

Timeskip... West Mountain: Top..

After they had arrived the place filled with Crystals, the fascinating view causing Lisbeth run towards with glee.

Lisbeth: Wow! It's beautiful.

Koharu: It is! Do you agree with me too?

Oathkeeper: Indeed..

She let out a sigh of relief..

Koharu: It feels familiar tho.. I wonder what floor is it had the same theme like this..

Oathkeeper: It must be in Floor 8 you're talking about. Except with the Hilly Environment..

Koharu: Yeah..

As Lisbeth is about to explore with eager, she was stopped by Kirito..

Lisbeth: What are you doing!?

Kirito: I suggest you should get your Teleport Crystal ready.

She sounds impatient from being annoyed by Kirito.

Lisbeth: All right!

Kirito: And we'll be taking it from here on. When the dragon shows up, hide in the shadows of those crystals and don't come out until we're done.

Lisbeth: What? You know I'm not an amateur! I can do-!

Kirito: Do what I say!

Lisbeth: !!

His voice had startled Lisbeth.. The other two heard it.

Koharu: Kiri-!

Koharu tries to say something but she was stopped by the Oathkeeper who is shaking his head.. Telling her to keep silence.

Oathkeeper: Silence is the best answer sometimes..

They both witness them, Lisbeth nods and Kirito pats her head as he smiles..

Kirito: Now then, let's go.

He walks forward alone.. A dragon roar alerts them all.

Koharu: It's here!

Kirito: Hide now!

Lisbeth: Okay!

A Wyrm disguised in front of the large crystals pile had just revealed itself.. They all unsheathe their weapons. The boss starts charging its breath attack.

Lisbeth: It's gonna use its freezing breath! Dodge it!

It fires out to them, Kirito and Oathkeeper blocked the attack entirely with just one single swing. Koharu switches in for counter attack.

Koharu: Haah!!!

*Slash!*

She slashes it three times in her body spin and a front vertical kick flinches the boss as the finisher. The Oathkeeper and the Black Swordsman both add up the combo. Kirito uses Cross Arc to parry two of its attack. As it flies in Mid-Air, the Oathkeeper hops up towards it and performs Aerial Spiral. Slashes it from down to up along with body spin up vertically and a blow that cuts off its arm. Lisbeth believes the battle is nearly over so she came out from hiding.

Lisbeth: Come on! Just get it over with!

Oathkeeper: !!

Kirito: You idiot! Don't come out yet!

Lisbeth: What are you talking about? It's already ove-!

Koharu: Look out!

The Wyrm quickly noticed and targeted her. It extended its wings before starting its Blizzard attack by beating its wing forward, causing the snow below to move and blows Lisbeth off to a large pit she is about to fall in..

Koharu: Liz!

Lisbeth: No! No!

She screams in panic as she falls into bottomless pit. Kirito jumps into her aid.

Kirito: Liz, hold on to me!

They both fall into the pit inevitably..

Koharu: Kirito.. Lisbeth...

The Oathkeeper snaps her out from her thoughts..

Oathkeeper: Snap out of it! It's targeting us!

Koharu: Huh!?

When the breath attack almost reaches her, Oathkeeper carries her and jumps away from the attack. He throws a Kunai Knife with explosive paper attached to it. It blows out most of its crystals part and the boss is retreating. He landed on the ground with still carrying her..

Oathkeeper: It got away...

Koharu: We almost got it tho.. Uhm...

Oathkeeper: ?

He looks at Koharu, her cheek starts turning red as she faces away..

Koharu: Can you put me down?

He gently puts her down before clearing his throat..

Oathkeeper: Ahem... My apologies..

Koharu: You saved me from that attack.. Thanks..

Oathkeeper: Keep that later.. We got bigger issues to deal with..

Koharu: Yeah! Kirito and Lisbeth are in danger!

She toggles her menu to her friend lists.

Koharu: Looks like their names hasn't turned grey yet.. They still must be alive..

They both hurry to the pit where Kirito and Liz fell in.. Koharu shouts in.

Koharu: Hey!! Can you hear me!? You guys alright!?

It took them 5 seconds to get the reply..

Kirito: Yeah! We both are fine!

She let out a sigh of relief..

Koharu: Thank god they're fine..! I'm so relieved..

Oathkeeper: Looks like we might have to spend a night here..

Koharu: Huh? Why? You're saying there's no way to get them out?

Oathkeeper: Deep down in that pit is the Anti-Crystal Area. But fortunately is, there's no trap in there as well because it's a dragon's nest..

Koharu: That's even worse! It might be back anytime!

Oathkeeper: The boss is a nocturnal one. It won't be back until the next morning..

Koharu: Oh.. So that means we still have time to think..

He thinks for a while...

Oathkeeper: A rope can't reach this deep.. Maybe there's a cave around the mountain that leads us to the nest where they are..

Koharu: Oh yeah! Maybe there's a secret entrance to the nest!

Oathkeeper: Shall we move?

Koharu: Sure!

She grins at him as she holds his hand before she explores around the mountain with eager.. He chuckles silently to her bright side and her eagerness in exploring..

Oathkeeper: (Still the same Koharu I know..)

Timeskip... Aincrad Standard Time, 19:00. West Mountain.

They both have been wandering around the Mountainside for a while.. Using every routes available in the Map around the mountain.. But unfortunately, they stopped at the dead end in the ravine they had gone along and they still can't find a passage or a tunnel in their sight as it might be covered up by the snow..

Koharu: There's no passage or a cave around..

Oathkeeper: ...

He examines around their surroundings, brushing the snow off the wall and punching against it.

Koharu: What are you doing?

Oathkeeper: Wait..

As he checks the dead end, he feels something was empty inside through the wall from the impact.

Oathkeeper: Got you..

He unsheathes his sword and charges up his Sword Skills to the max. Then, he unleashes his Rock-Shattering Slashes. Breaking the wall and reveals a cave in front of them..

Koharu: There it is! I can't believe you found it! I wonder how you figured out.

Oathkeeper: You can feel the impact is different when punching against the walls. It's part of a survival.

Koharu: Oh! That's why! I'm glad that I learned something new!

He sheathes back his weapon and prepares his Lighting Crystal..

Oathkeeper: Let's go.. They won't hold much longer.

Koharu: Okay!

He offers out his hand to her..

Oathkeeper: Stay close to me.. Koharu..

She smiles at him as she gladly accepts it..

Koharu: I will..

They enter the cave and start the exploration..

Timeskip... Unknown Cave...

A light sparks in the pitch, black Cave along with two players traveled deep inside. Koharu holds tight onto the Oathkeeper as she couldn't get used to the dark in the cave.

Koharu: So creepy here.. I never thought this cave would be this dark.

Oathkeeper: Aren't you in the Assault Team?

Koharu: I know what you're trying to say but.. I'm scared when I'm alone in the dark.. And I hate bugs too.. So I hope any of them won't spawn around here and ambush us.

Oathkeeper: So you don't trust me at all..

Koharu: Huh? Of course I do! You've been by my side a lot in these past few weeks. What made you said that?

Oathkeeper: Because I don't wish anything bad that can happen to you before you get to reunite with that player.

Koharu: ...

She went silenced for a while.. She asks..

Koharu: Oathkeeper... Were you being a solo player all the time since the death game started?

He nods..

Oathkeeper: You're the very first one I've teamed up with.. That's all I can say..

Koharu: That's bad.. But it's a miracle that you would survived this long. And all the things you have done.

She smiles at him cheerfully..

Koharu: I think I can trust you. Seriously.. And I can't believe I get to team up with you. ^^

Her words cheer him up.

Oathkeeper: Thanks.. Koharu...

Koharu: Before I get to meet him, I'll stick with you anywhere by the meantime. Do you agree?

He nods..

Oathkeeper: It would be my pleasure...

She chuckles..

Koharu: Hehe..! You're such a gentleman..

Her compliments makes him blush in his hood.. He quickly recovers from that.

Oathkeeper: Are we going or not?

Koharu: Oh! Yeah! We should really go right now! They need us to get them out.

Oathkeeper: Stay close to me..

Koharu: I will..

As they continue their way, a Plain Crystal attached to the wall on their left. He activates it by gently knock it and it reacts to him immediately. Then, light starts flooding in as the rest of the Crystals start filling the cave with brightening colors..

After all Crystals had filled up the cave with lights.. Her eyes widened as she just witnesses this breezing view for the very first time in her life.

Koharu: Wow! So this is the Crystal Cave!

A pickaxe button pops up as the Oathkeeper goes near to some Crystals.

Oathkeeper: All of these Crystals are the mining points.. It seems we're the first one who discovered this place.

Koharu: I wanna take a pic of it while we're in it! Can I, Oathkeeper?

Oathkeeper: Don't get too far away while you're at it.

Koharu: Okay!

As she begins her explore around the cave eagerly, the Oathkeeper watches her brightest smile shines around like other Crystals did and it's the only thing that he always yearning for a very long time.. The Oathkeeper holds his cries in his hood, looks away as he keeps his sobs to the lowest..

Oathkeeper: I missed your smile... Koharu..

As he continues to watch her venturing around, Koharu suddenly returns to his side.. Telling him to come over..

Koharu: Hey! Don't you wanna come over to enjoy the view?

Oathkeeper: No thanks.. There are plenty other views like this in other floors..

Koharu: Yeah.. I thought Floria in Floor 47 was my favorite.. Then this one came in and I just had a second thought! It's weird to say this but.. I gotta hand it to the Developers, it's just keep getting better and better, and its improvement are limitless!

Oathkeeper: I agree with you...

Before he continues.. Koharu notices a frozen water drop on his hood.

Koharu: Is that.. A tear? Are you...?

Oathkeeper: ...

She takes off the coat he gave it to her..

Koharu: You must be feeling cold, Oathkeeper.. Let me put you on this time..

She wraps the coat around him from the back. The Oathkeeper didn't resist at all, standing there and letting her do the job..

Oathkeeper: What about you, Koharu?

She takes out her warming potion and drinks it to withstand the freeze.

Koharu: I almost forgot about this. It would be a waste for not using it all the time. Don't worry about me.. And thanks for the coat.. Oathkeeper..

Oathkeeper: ...

He pats her head..

Oathkeeper: You're an independent girl.. That's for sure..

Koharu: Eh? Yeah but.. Not really tho.. And what makes you say that?

Oathkeeper: Am I not allowed to compliment..?

Koharu: No! It's... It's kinda weird to hear it from someone like you. ^^"

Then, she smiles at him to reassure his feelings..

Koharu: But.. You're a nice guy. That's what I really see in you.. Even though you're in Red Cursor.. And..

She hugs him from behind and snuggle.

Koharu: You're so warm.. I think I can count on you.. With all my trust..

He holds both of her hands together with his on his stomach while she's still hugging him from the back.. Their warmth surrounds them around and withstand the freeze inside the Crystal Cave. They both stay like this for a couple minutes surrounded by the Beautiful, Colorful Crystals as their perfect background for their romantic scene.

Oathkeeper: Shall we get going?

Koharu: Oh.. Yeah we should.. But..

She releases herself from the hug and looks at the shining Crystals around.

Koharu: I wish I could stay here even more.. Huh?

She notices him preparing their Sleeping Bags and a Candle Light Lantern between.

Koharu: Wait! They need-!

Oathkeeper: They both can manage themselves.. Plus, dragons are nocturnal. So we still have time for this.

After hearing his reasons, she couldn't agree more..

Koharu: ...Yeah.. Let's enjoy this while we still can.

Later...

She snuck into her Sleeping Bag.. Facing her head to where she still can see the Crystals clearly. Then, she looks at the Oathkeeper who is carrying Boulders from around the Cave and is about to head to the entrance where they both came in for the first time. He asks Koharu that if she is fine staying here, especially in a Cave with low temperature.

Oathkeeper: Do you feel any cold?

Koharu: No.. Not at all. The warming effect should be ended in the next morning.

Oathkeeper: You should get some sleep before morning.. I'll block the entrance to this place..

Koharu: Why?

It took her a few seconds to realize the fact and the consequences if the Players from the Front Lines and the Assault Team had discovered this place.

Koharu: Oh.. They'll ruin this place if they started mining uncontrollably.

Oathkeeper: I'm glad you thought in the same way just now..

Koharu: Thanks.. I've never thought of that actually if you didn't mention it. But I think this might will be our private place to hang around! ^^

Oathkeeper: I should be doing it right now.. Have some sleep.. I'll join up later..

Koharu: Okay!

She smiles before she slowly goes into her sleep peacefully..

Koharu: (I'll remember this.. Forever..)

The next day.. June 26th. Aincrad Standard Time, 07:00.

They both continue their exploration and head forward to a tunnel.. Then, after a few jumping from rocks to rocks up to the Dragon's nest based on the Kirito's and Lisbeth's location are. They finally reached there without a single scratch.

Koharu: They're here.. Just ahead of us..

He unsheathes his sword and destroys the wall with Rock-Shattering Slashes. Then, they both finally reach the pit and meet up their party members back again. Lisbeth rushes to them first.

Lisbeth: Koharu! Oathkeeper!

Kirito: You guys found us!

Oathkeeper: I thought you can run up the wall on your own. I guess I overestimated you, Black Swordsman.

Kirito: Yeah right.. This isn't really my style by leaving a lady here alone. Plus, the walls are too slippery for me to run on and the area doesn't have enough room for me to propel myself too.

Lisbeth: And we just found the materials what we came for!

Kirito shows them the Crystallite Ingot. A rare material for what they came for..

Kirito: Unfortunately, the material we found is actually an excrement of that boss who eats crystals. You know.. Poop?

His explanation makes her speechless..

Koharu: Uhm... Wow.. I don't know what should I say tho.. At least it didn't gross me out by the looks of it.

He sighs..

Oathkeeper: Good grief... Kirito..

Kirito: What? Did I said something wrong? Anyway, we should get out from here before..

*Grroar!!*

All: !!

Lisbeth: It's coming!

The boss just returned and it is about to descend to all of them.. Kirito creates a fog with the snow and grabs Lisbeth while Oathkeeper grabs Koharu.

Koharu and Lisbeth: Wait! Wha-!

Oathkeeper and Kirito: Hang on tight!

Both of the boys start running onto the wall and jumps away to stab the dragon. It flew out from its nest to shake them off. Then, they detached themselves from the dragon and flew high into the sky.

Koharu and Lisbeth: Ahhh!!!

After high enough to pass through the clouds, all four of them just notice the beautiful Sunrise as they start Freefalling.

Koharu: Wow...

Both of the boys offer their hand to the girls.. The other two gladly accepts it. As Lisbeth confesses her feelings to Kirito. Koharu also tries to tell the truth to Oathkeeper about she had known his true identity from the first place.

Koharu: Oathkeeper! You know, I..!

Oathkeeper: ?

Her lips move and it's obvious for him that she tries to say something to him but he is unable to hear her over the roar of the wind at all, but she continues that with a grin.

Oathkeeper: What!? I can't hear you!

Undeterred, they both smile and hug the boys in the end during the Freefalling. With the help of the boy's gliding skills, they land onto the mountain safely.

Timeskip...

Four of them are back to Lisbeth's Smith Shop, Lisbeth takes out the heated ingot from the furnace.

Lisbeth: An One-handed Long Sword, right?

Kirito: Yes, please.

She places it on the Metal table. She takes a deep breath before starting to forge it with her hammer.

Koharu: You seem pretty diligent on it.

Oathkeeper: Shh.. Don't interrupt her.

Koharu: Oh.. Sorry..

After a few clanks came from the sound of weapon forging, the ingot turns into an Aqua-Colored Sword. She reads the info of the newly created Sword.

Lisbeth: The Dark Repulser. It's the first time I've heard that name, so it's not in the info broker's codex.

Koharu: Not even in the codex, huh? It must be pretty rare.

Lisbeth: You should give it a try, Kirito.

Kirito: Okay.

He tests it out with two regular sword swings.

Lisbeth: How is it?

Kirito: It's heavy. It's a good sword.

Then, she goes delightful..

Lisbeth: Really!?

Kirito: I can feel your heart inside of it.

She nods happily..

Koharu: Lisbeth must be pouring a lot of her focus inside. Be grateful with it, Kirito.

Kirito: Yeah, I know.. And my request is complete now. How much will it be?

Lisbeth: Uh, well... You don't have to pay me.

Kirito: Huh?

Koharu: What!?

Oathkeeper: You what!?

Lisbeth: In exchange, I'd like to become your private blacksmith... Kirito...

Koharu: *Gasp!*

Everyone got even more surprised, especially for the duo. The Oathkeeper grabs the Black Swordsman's collar immediately.

Oathkeeper: Kirito... What... Have you done!?!

Kirito: Wait wait! I don't really know what she means and I'm surprised as well!

Lisbeth: It's my decision, Oathkeeper! It has nothing to do with him actually... And I know this is clearly unfair to the other customers.

He releases him..

Oathkeeper: Ugh... Better make it quick, Liz..

Koharu: (I guess he really dislikes harem.)

Lisbeth: When you're back from the fields, come here and let me do the maintenance on your equipment. Every day! Starting from now on! ><"

Her words makes the Oathkeeper clearly gets the point of "Why would she say that?" Then, he sighs in frustration. Kirito blushes..

Oathkeeper: *sigh* Good grief...

Koharu: Calm down, Oathkeeper! At least I'm here for you! ^^

Kirito: Liz...

Lisbeth: Kirito, I... I...

As she is about to reach her hand to his, someone barges in quick and it was the Lightning Flash with her worried expression. Then, Asuna hops down and hugs Lisbeth tightly.

Asuna: Liz, I was worried sick!

Lisbeth: Asuna?

Asuna: Liz! I couldn't message or track you... Where have you been last night?!

Lisbeth: Sorry, I got held up in a dungeon...

Asuna: In a dungeon? Alone?

She shakes her head as a no..

Lisbeth: No, with all of them..

Asuna: Huh?

She turns around and notices Koharu who is greeting at her with hand wave.

Asuna: Koharu?

Koharu: Hey! Took you for a while to notice us.

Then, she turns to Oathkeeper and Kirito..

Asuna: You too, Oathkeeper!? And Kirito!?

Kirito: Ah! Hey, Asuna.. It's been a while... Or not.. It's been about two days if I'm right?

Asuna: I see, you've come here right away! If you told me about, I'd have tagged along.

Lisbeth: Do you know each other?

Kirito: Yeah, we're both on the front lines.

Her eyes widened as she couldn't believe that.

Asuna: He wanted a strong sword, so I told him about your shop.

Lisbeth: I see..

Asuna turns to Kirito as she teases him..

Asuna: I hope you didn't do anything weird to my best friend.

Kirito: I- I didn't!

Asuna: You sound so guilty~

Lisbeth: ...

Kirito: Would it hurt to trust me? I almost died!

Asuna: This is why I told you not to go alone!

Koharu: She's right, Kirito..

Kirito: Not you too!

The Oathkeeper notices her blank expression as she stares at her crush and her best friend being so close.

Lisbeth: I seem.. I get it now.

Then, Asuna turns to her with a smile...

Asuna: Was he rude to you? Huh?

She notices her blank expression.. But she covered up her hurt feelings quick.

Asuna: Liz?

Lisbeth: Rude? Oh, please! He just broke my best sword!

Asuna: Eh!? I'm sorry...!

Lisbeth: It's not something you need to apologize for.

She whispers to her ears before she rushes off for the appointment.

Lisbeth: He's a bit of a weirdo, but he's a good person. I'll be rooting for you. Good luck, Asuna!

Asuna blushes immediately..

Asuna: I'm telling you it's not like that! Liz?

Lisbeth: Sorry, I forgot I had an appointment to pick up some materials. I'll be right back!

Asuna: What about your shop?

Lisbeth: Koharu will look after my store! Right, Koharu?

Koharu: Uhm.. Yeah.. I guess.. I don't remember she got appointment today. Or I just forgot it..

Asuna: Huh? Hey, Liz!

He follows up..

Oathkeeper: I'll catch up with her. And you, Kirito. Stay right here... And look after him, Asuna..

Kirito: *Gulp!* O-Okay..

Asuna: Take care of her!

He rushes outside as well..

Asuna: Geez... What's going on actually?

Koharu: Uhm.. It's nothing tho. Really...

Timeskip... Lindarth City.

Lisbeth cries in the shadow, hugging her knees and buries her face in it while leaning against the railing bridge. It took Oathkeeper a couple minutes to manage to locate her. She hears the footsteps but didn't want to reply.

Oathkeeper: Lisbeth...

Then, she slowly stands up..

Lisbeth: It's you.. Oathkeeper.. You and Koharu really have been helping me a lot... And I really appreciate that.. But right now.. It's really a bad time for you to come..

She turns around, smiling at him with tears on her eyes..

Lisbeth: Give me a few moments and I'll be back to my old cheerful self.

Oathkeeper: Liz...

Lisbeth: But.. How did you know I was here?

Oathkeeper: ...

He looks away.. But he replies back immediately..

Oathkeeper: Mind if I show you something? If you promised me not to tell anyone..

Lisbeth: Huh?

He grabs his hood with both hands, then reveals his face in front of Lisbeth.. She went shocked..

Lisbeth: Lai!?

He wears back on his hood.

Oathkeeper: We've started to work together since in Floor 4.. And it's clear for me to know about your feelings..

Then, she smiles as she just realizes someone knows her well..

Lisbeth: I'm glad you can.. That makes me feel better.. And sorry.. I'll be fine soon. My heart was just surprised because it's not used to adventures like this.

Oathkeeper: ...

Lisbeth: So please tell him to forget everything I said..

She cries a bit.. Lai couldn't do anything but just standing there and letting her relieve her feelings out..

Oathkeeper: He might wanna say thanks to you for sticking up with him.

Lisbeth: Huh? How would you know?

Oathkeeper: Because he and I are solo players.. And he thought it's better to die than to live his life alone...

Lisbeth: He did?

He nods..

Oathkeeper: And for me, I seriously thought I could protect and clear 30 Floors for the sake of her and everyone else until I'm perished, alone. But.. Why did I stopped..?

Lisbeth: Huh?

Oathkeeper: Because I.. Every time I think about Koharu.. It drives me enough to clear any Floors ahead of me.. But at the same time, it makes me feel I'm dying.. Alone.. As every seconds passes.. And I don't want that.. At all.. So that's why I came back, to see her again and do what I must to do for her and for everyone in this world..

Lisbeth: Yeah.. You're the Oathkeeper... You really make the world a better place. Even though you're a Red Player.

Oathkeeper: And I'm glad you survived after all that. It made me feel alive. So I want to thank you as well, Lisbeth. For staying alive.

Lisbeth: You're flattering me.. I just realized everyone's here in this game, including us.. Are alive for the sake of living. So it's my line to say my thanks to you, Oathkeeper..

She bows at him.. Then, she looks at the scenery while smiling brightly..

Lisbeth: You know, I've been searching all this time...

Oathkeeper: About what?

Lisbeth: For something real in this world. For me, the warmth of Kirito's hand was that.. What about you?

Oathkeeper: For me, it's the Connections that binds us together..

Lisbeth: Connection, huh? Where did that come from?

He points to where her heart is..

Oathkeeper: Deep down inside, the only thing that is true is our feelings and connections we've created. Although our bodies and everything here are just mere data.. But our hearts are somehow only tells the truth.. It may sound silly but.. Do you believed in that, Liz?

She nods..

Lisbeth: Yeah.. That is true enough.. You're still knowledgeable as ever. You should tell Koharu about this.

Oathkeeper: Liz...

Lisbeth: I'm fine. There's just a bit of the heat left. So... Please... Make this world end. Until then, I'll hold out.

Oathkeeper: I promise you. I'm going to beat this game.

She wipes her tears off before she turns to face him..

Lisbeth: If your weapons or armor needs fixing, feel free drop by anytime. And please tell Koharu about this as well!

Oathkeeper: Koharu and I will appreciate your offer..

Lisbeth: Make sure to return to Lisbeth's Smith Shop!

She smiles brightly..

Oathkeeper: I'm glad you're okay..

They both finally returned to Lisbeth's Smith Shop.

Timeskip...

After they just returned, Koharu is the first one who asks the Blacksmith with her concern.

Koharu: Are you okay, Liz?

Lisbeth: Yeah.. Are they gone out already?

Koharu: Yeah.. The Assault Team informed them to come back to the fields. And thanks for taking care of her, Oathkeeper.

Oathkeeper: And thanks for looking after the store. You feeling better right now, Liz?

Lisbeth: Yeah.. What are you two gonna do next?

Koharu: Oh.. Uhm.. We don't have any plans actually.. But.. I have a certain place that Oathkeeper and I want to visit again.

Lisbeth: Oh, what is it? You two planning a date already?

Koharu: Not that! Really! But.. Maybe... Yeah... It is..

Lisbeth: Oh well! Wish you two the best luck!

She nods and smiles..

Koharu: Thanks, Lisbeth! We're off now!

The duo leave the store... Koharu asks him.

Koharu: So what did you said to her?

Oathkeeper: I'm thanking her for staying alive. So we can run some errands or gathering materials when we have time to kill.

Koharu: Just it? Come on! Tell me more and seriously!

Oathkeeper: *sigh and smile* All right, all right..

End Of Chapter...