Aincrad Standard Time, 12:00.. Floor 1, Orphanage Church in Town Of Beginnings.

After completing the rescue mission requested from Yulier, the four head back to the church. As they open the door, everyone was burst in joy upon seeing them alive.

Gin & Mina and Kain: Onii-chan!

Yulier: Thank God! You guys made it!

Asuna: Yeah.. But Lai barely made it because of the boss we encountered in the dungeon.

Yulier: We should take a rest before discussing out our plan. Lai.. Thank you for saving Thinker...

Thinker: And sorry about what the ALF did to-

He cuts his sentence..

Oathkeeper: Save it Thinker.. Why in the world's hell did you chose to trust him!?

Thinker: ..I was blinded by his persuasion... I thought he would admit his doings to the public after our discussion in the dungeon.

Kirito: But he drew out the boss's attention and trapped you in there instead. Then he decided to take over the entire guild and eradicate Oathkeeper with an all-out attack. Am I right?

He nods.

Thinker: Correct... At the first time when our guilds start the collaborations, he swore that the ALS would prioritize on clearing floors while my guild, "MMO's today" keeps supporting the civilians player. So I let him manage the XP farm and other grinding areas. It was a major mistake for giving him powers right at the very first.

Oathkeeper: Let's not waste our time here...

Koharu: But you need some recovery. You're completely wore out after the boss raid!

The others add in to persuade him.

Yulier: Don't rush it.. Lai.. I know you had grudges on them for taking away your familiar.

Oathkeeper: Not only that.. I'm doing this for Diavel..

Everyone got shocked by the name he just mentioned.

Koharu: Wait what?

Asuna: Him?

Thinker: Diavel? But he's already-

Oathkeeper: I know! Don't you dare say it!

He heads back to his room, agitated. All of then could hear the door slams.

Thinker: What happened to him?

Kirito: I forgot to tell you all, I overheard him talking to himself when I was following him in the dungeon. Turns out he's still hasn't forget Diavel. And I also.. Saw him with my own eyes as well.

Koharu: You saw Diavel!? How!?

Kirito: I don't know.. But do you still remember that time in Floor 5 after Diavel fell into the void?

Asuna: I remembered it.. He was.. Hurt.. Right?

Kirito: Yeah.. and Diavel must've guided him all this time after what happened in Floor 20. So that's why he was able to clear 30 Floors all by himself, under Diavel's guidance.

Koharu: Darn.. I don't really buy it but all Lai's powers and abilities are major proofs of Diavel's presence.

Asuna: Yeah.. It seems like that.. But Diavel.. I can't say anything for him.. Neither for Lai..

Kirito: Like the master's passing his strength to his successor.. Diavel was the one who changed the world with him, even after his death. But he's now gone and Lai must be pretty tired and completely wore out after accepting his death, both mental and physically after the boss raid.

Asuna: Should we... Stay by his side? We can't leave him suffering this time.

Koharu: I'll go.. And you were right, Asuna..

Asuna: What is it?

Koharu: You said he needed me. But I don't get it at the first time because I thought he is fine as always on his own. But it turns out.. He carries all the world's burdens and it also costed him someone that he relies on. I know I said this a lot but, I should be there for him.

Kirito: Great.. After things settle down, let's meet up in the meeting room.

Koharu nods as reply before the duo head to the meeting with the ALF Leader. Sanya and Sasha both show their concerns towards Koharu.

Sasha: Is everything okay?

Koharu: No.. Lai suffered too much.. I'm just... I don't know..

Sanya: You felt the same pain as him.. Am I right? Just my guess..

Koharu: Maybe.. It hurts me to see him like this, that I almost got succumbed by his grudges. I can totally feel why he wanted to get rid of the Army so bad. And that's why we have to stop Kibaou and the ALS.

Sanya: So the revolution is about to begin..

Sasha: Think you can join them, Sanya?

Sanya: Wait! Really?

Sasha: Right now they need manpower for the revolution. Am I right, Koharu?

Koharu: Yeah, you probably should ask Thinker. I don't have the rights nor the mood for recruiting now.

Sanya: Okay I'll try. Good luck with-

Suddenly, the children cut in between their conversation..

Mina: Can we join?

Gin: Yeah! We can help out!

Koharu: No! You guys don't meet the requirements.

Kain: But we can be the support roles! Plus, Onii-chan's gonna join the front lines as well so we shouldn't feel worried with him around.

Sasha: No! You guys can't! That's too dangerous!

Mina: Aw why!? It's our first time joining a huge raid like this.

Sanya: Let them in.

Sasha: What!?

Sanya: They had been cooping in this church for too long. So I suggest they should experience something new to them. Do you agree with me, Koharu?

Koharu: Y-Yeah I guess..?

The children burst in joy as soon as they hear their agreement.

Mina: Yay!

Gin: Woohoo! We're joining the raid!

Kain: This is gonna be awesome!

The girls sigh with a grin on their face. Koharu ends the conversation with a reply.

Koharu: I'm staying with Oathkeeper.

Sasha: Good luck.

Sanya: We're heading to the meeting.

Sanya joins the meeting along with the children. Koharu enters the bedroom which she shared with Oathkeeper. She takes a deep breath before knocking the door.

Koharu: You can do it, Koharu.. He really needs you right now.

She opens the door slowly, notices him was laying down at the bed, resting. Replaying Erina's Memories. His face was emotionless, trying to fall asleep to forget all he had been through.

Koharu: Lai...

He didn't even feel bothered by her presence, just keep playing the memories he had with his Familiar. Koharu slowly sits next to him, try to keep him company, as well watching the memories together.

Oathkeeper: ...Ain't she a beauty?

She looks at the grey cat with green eyes, same as Koharu's, who is currently licking her paws in the memories in front of a mirror. In the mirror, its body is slim and small like a kitty instead.

Koharu: ..She's cute.. But she was just a kitty...

Oathkeeper: But she carries an enormous power. She had been supported me with her powers for months.

Koharu: How did you met her?

Oathkeeper: In Floor 40..

Koharu: But that place's a ruin and there's no NPC at all..

Oathkeeper: Wrong..

Koharu: ?

Oathkeeper: A kind witch gifted her to me in Floor 40.. And I promised to take care of her. Treating her like she's a pair of wings for me to fly across every dangers we encounter.

Then, she could hear him sobs..

Oathkeeper: That witch.. She got hated by the people in the town and then. She was killed by an archer sent from the nation. That arrow just went through her head right in front of my very eyes. Then, I got stormed by some imperial guards, along with battalion commander, just because she posts a threat to their nation! And then..

Koharu: You... Got rid of them all, right?

Oathkeeper: Yes.. And no one had survived that..

Flashback...

Flames and horrifying death screams arounds me. I crushed their town, I tore down their nations, wrecking their palace and murdered their leader. I was once surrounded by thousands of NPC soldiers and golems.. All equipped with Spears and Shields.

Imperial guards: Halt!

Oathkeeper: !?

They all charge in without saying anything. Oathkeeper stores his familiar inside his inventory. And immediately got stabbed by spear soldiers from every direction. He struggles to reach out to his Dark General's Sword. As soon as he grabs it, Oathkeeper swings around, cutting the soldier's head off from their bodies around him to break out. He hops away from them and lands beside one of the huge pillars. He grabs the entire pillar and pulls it off.

Oathkeeper: Go to hell!! All of you!!!

Then, he swings the pillar with full force, eliminate most of the soldiers and golems and crash through some other pillars. Tumbling the ceiling above them, crushing them with it.

Flashback ends...

Oathkeeper: After that, no NPC were spawned at there and got replaced by the mobs instead.

Koharu: That's cruel... But the karma's even more brutal..

Oathkeeper: And now the same thing happened to her... Her head was stucked onto a pike.. So I repeated the same process on the ALF. And if HDA tries to commit any sins, I'll just kill them all..

He coughs a bit as he holds her hand with both..

Oathkeeper: ...But I'm cold and tired as countless deaths surrounds me. Those battles were endless.. They wanted a war so I gave them one. But I had to do anything in order to win. And they will be the one who ended up dying in my palms.

Koharu: ...

She pulls his head into her cuddle. Soothing him..

Koharu: You've done so much to protect.. You had suffered enough.. Just let it all out..

He leans in close as he feels the warmth from her cuddle.

Oathkeeper: I need another pair of wings.. To get me out of my misery.

Her head closes in and plants a kiss onto his forehead.

Koharu: You'll be fine..

They both stay in cuddling for a couple of minutes. Oathkeeper falls asleep in her warmth.

Koharu: (He doesn't want to talk about Diavel at all. He had lost the path he was heading to. But.. I wish he could just be an ordinary boy that I really liked about. He.. No.. Right now, we really need a rest.)

As she's pondering in her thoughts, he suddenly asks her a question.

Oathkeeper: Hey..

Koharu: ?

Oathkeeper: When will we finally return back to the real world? What happened on there when we still stuck in here?

Koharu: I... I'm not sure... I can't even imagine what happened in the real world. But with our strength combined.. We'll reach there in no time.. It's just.. We need some solutions on.. Our problems..

Oathkeeper: ...

He replies as he felt satisfied with the answer she gave.

Oathkeeper: Yeah.. We can't waste any time right now.. Our people need us..

He gets up from the bed.

Oathkeeper: Let's go..

Koharu: Did you get enough rest?

Oathkeeper: I can't think of anything for now.. I have to focus.. But..

He offers a hand to Koharu..

Oathkeeper: ...After all this, we'll take a break back to our home, in Floor 22 with them..

She gladly accepts it, replies with a sweet but serene smile.

Koharu: Yeah.. Let's do this...

Meanwhile... Meeting room..

Thinker: And that's all for the plan.

Asuna: I agree with this. Don't you think, Yulier?

Yulier: Yeah, if the second-in-command agrees on it. I have no objection..

Sanya: But there's bound to have casualties in this plan. Even with Oathkeeper and the MBC's reinforcement. There are thousands of them in total.

Thinker: It's unavoidable..

Kirito: Thinker, maybe you should brief us again about the plan? In case we need a second thought.

Thinker: Yeah.. We have to think this through. A plan without suffering any casualties.

They all just hear the door knock, then the duo show up eventually.

Koharu: You guys need help?

Asuna: Good timing! And are you okay, Lai?

He replies in cold tone.

Oathkeeper: Just get to the point, I don't want to get distracted by anything.

Asuna: Okay.. Thinker?

Thinker: Yes.. Second in command.

He sends out the map and layout of the entire ALF's floating palace, along with all the advancing phases and the deploy formation. Located on top center of the Town Of Beginnings.

Thinker: The Floating Palace was our main base. But it is now classified by our guild because we stored some forbidden weapons and intels of making them. Kibaou is currently hiding there and decided to make use of the weapons for the Army.

Oathkeeper: What kind of weapons?

He sends a new type of weapon.

Thinker: They are all about Automatic Crossbows.. A long range weapon that shoots arrow in full auto with 500 Rounds per minutes. It's like an Assault Rifle but the projectiles aren't fast like bullets in real life.

Kirito: Damn... But it's an automatic one and long range always beats the melee. It'll be a disaster if a group of them are equipped with it.

Oathkeeper: And what else?

He sends out several blueprints of the weapon type.

Thinker: Six Barreled Automatic Crossbow, known as the "Arrow Gunner". Capable of knocking a large group of mobs. It can be equipped to a player with both Very High STR and DEX or it can be installed as an artillery. As for the others, they are only designed as traps and turrets.

Oathkeeper: Their weapon tech went ahead of us.. So what's the plan?

Thinker: This is the idea that Yulier and I had planned so far. I decided that Yulier and I should be going back to the palace first and used ourselves as a bait to call out all the members, including the former Leader, Kibaou. Then, Yulier will shut down the safe zone system, located deep down in the palace's basement. Once she turns it off, that'll be your signal to strike. Plus, you'll be leading the attack and capture Kibaou. Do you agree on that?

Oathkeeper: Just the 5 of us?

Thinker: No.. Every members from the Moonlit Black Cats. And the "Valkyries" are joining the attack.

Oathkeeper: Valkyries?

Koharu: Oh! Do you still remember our friends? Sinon, Silica, Lisbeth, Yuuki, Sachi and I actually had formed a squad long time ago?

Oathkeeper: Never heard of that..

Koharu: Well.. It's a long story.. But with the squad formed, they can help each other out and..

Oathkeeper: ..And you're the leader of the Valkyries?

Koharu: Y-Yeah! Pretty cool, huh?

He focus back to the plan.

Oathkeeper: Great. With sufficient power and better plans, we might be able to take down the Army without suffering any life losses. To do that, Each Valkyries need a squad provided by the MBC.

He drags the Valkyries's profile pics.

Oathkeeper: Sinon will be forming and leading the Archer Team, providing overwatch and long-range support. Sachi will be the leader of the spear unit at the front lines. Asuna and Yuuki both will have their own DPS teams and they should mix up with Sachi's squad, Lisbeth's will act as the tank and supporter.

Koharu: What about Silica?

Oathkeeper: She'll be the scout. With her familiar act as the satellite, she'll be able to provide us any of the enemy's incoming attacks so we can step ahead of them. The rest of us should go solo and support the squad while Koharu acts as the commander.

Koharu: What about you?

Oathkeeper: I will be the Assassin and the Destroyer.

Thinker: You're not going to kill them all, are you?

Oathkeeper: I'm protecting the MBC at any cost. Because your "men" probably had traps rigged inside the palace and those heavy artilleries will shred them apart. Or is this what you really planned for?

Thinker: I don't.. I would never have that thoughts in my mind. What should I do so you can trust me?

Oathkeeper: After all this mess you've created..

Koharu: He still has trust issues.. "^^

Oathkeeper: But anyway, this plan is fine for me. Any questions?

Asuna asks about backup plan.

Asuna: What if the plan doesn't go along? Any suggestions on plan B?

Oathkeeper: I'll infiltrate the palace. I already knew Kibaou is expecting us but that isn't going to save his ass. I want you all to hold them off and buy some time for me to reach the basement. Then, I'll meet you in the yard and we proceed all the way inside the palace until we get all of them to surrender. Do I make myself clear?

Thinker: Yes, that would work I guess.. Yulier and I will take our leave and head back to the HQ to fake out a meeting to lure everyone.

Koharu: Be safe in there. I don't know what kind of tricks Kibaou is gonna pull off with.

Yulier: Thank you for the concern. You should call the Valkyries and the MBC leader, Keita. The rest of you all should get prepared as well. I hope this will work out.

Kirito: Don't worry, I'm sure Oathkeeper's going to be MVP in this raid.

Sanya: Sure but can we able to avoid the casualties? A whole army of MBC are going to join us.

Koharu: Hm... You're right.. I'll have a discussion with them. What about the rest of you?

Sanya: I'll refine all of my equips and stock up some medical supplies.

Kirito: I'll sharpen up my Dual Swords Skills with Asuna since her movements are always faster than mine.

She looks to her partner.

Koharu: What about you, Oathkeeper?

Oathkeeper: I'll get myself ready... You should gather them up at this time.

Koharu: Maybe you should meet them! They're probably as strong as you!

He responded back with a silent but curious stare.

Oathkeeper: ...

Koharu: Well...! I mean not that "overpowering" strong. It's that they are strong enough to take care of themselves.

Oathkeeper: That's good.. I'll see them in the raid.

Koharu: But... Don't you wanna test their strength out?

Oathkeeper: I'd rather them use their strength on the Army.

Koharu: C'mon! After they heard the rumors, they all had grew interest on you. They were hoping to find someone strong enough to spar with!

Oathkeeper: Why not sparring with you instead?

Koharu: Because I always get the victory in the end. So they hope to find someone even stronger. You know, to know how much power a player can get.

He sighs and replies..

Oathkeeper: Fine.. I'll do it.. You make the call..

Koharu: Okay! I'll message them right now!

She opens up her group message log and types out the words so smooth that she's already used to it. She taps the "send" button after finishing the message. Then she got an instant replies from Yuuki first. Then Sinon, Silica, Sachi and lastly, Lisbeth.

Koharu: They all replied so quickly..! Seems like they all are very excited to see you!

Oathkeeper: ...

Timeskip... Floor 1, Origin Plains..

Several minutes later, as both of them are waiting for the Valkyries, Oathkeeper is currently upgrading the rest of his One-handed Sword Skills and his Martial Crushing Skills at the same time by reading the [Dictionary of Sword Skills]. He casually picks up several Martial Arts skills and few of Sword Fighting skills and equipped as his Tenth deck just for the encounter with the Valkyries. Koharu calls out for him.

Koharu: Hey..

Oathkeeper: ?

Koharu: Try not to be rough on them, okay?

Oathkeeper: I just picked up some skills that suits for this moment. Basic ones but upgraded to the max, so not too worry. I guess....

Koharu: But your stats are clearly overwhelmed mine. I can even tell that you had gone easy on me during that fight.

Oathkeeper: Because you'd be a goner if I go all out on you.

Koharu: Yeah.. I'm glad you didn't..

She sits on the grass, admiring the sky as they wait for them to show up. Then she suggests something else.

Koharu: Lai?

Oathkeeper: ?

Koharu: After the raid, you really should take a break and enjoy the rest of the vacation with us.

After hearing, he was glad.. But he had to turn down on her..

Oathkeeper: ...I afraid that I-

Koharu: Because you're always shouldering the world's burden.. Am I right?

Oathkeeper: I had to.. Not only because Diavel told me to. It's because you wished to save everyone. And that's the Oath I had swore to you..

Koharu: ...I know.. But.. We both deserve a normal life like everyone, right? After all we've been through.

Oathkeeper: ...

Suddenly, he changed his mind.

Oathkeeper: Maybe just a week or two..

Koharu: Huh?

Oathkeeper: It's just an Oath after all, right? When the raid's over, what I really want is a peaceful home with you and creates our own memories.

She smiles as she feels the happiness.

Koharu: Thank you for accepting..

She lays down on the grass..

Koharu: I'm so glad we have the chance to spend our time together.

Oathkeeper: I was hoping to do that after we finally get back to the real world.

Koharu: Yeah but that'll take a lot of time... And I can't even tell Kayaba is willing to let us out even if we beat the game.. I don't know how long the flames will keep on..

Oathkeeper: You got a point. I guess.. We have to grab every chance we have.

Koharu: Even if we die in the end.. At least we're together.

Oathkeeper: ...Koharu.

Yuuki: Hey, Koharu!

Oathkeeper and Koharu: !!

They both notice the Valkyries are just arrived on time. Oathkeeper first notices the girls had some major changes on their avatar.

Just witnessing their armor and their weapon's appearances are enough for him to tell they had grown so much. Koharu seems pretty proud of that.

Oathkeeper: ...Whoa..

Lisbeth: Sup, you two!

Koharu: Hey girls! Looks like you all prepared for this.

Sinon: That's right.. We're all here for the man of legend.

Silica: So this is the Oathkeeper.. Kinda strong and creepy to be honest.

Lisbeth: Don't be afraid, he visited my shop several times.

Sachi: I actually don't think we'd be a match for him.. He seems in another level in terms of strength.

The Zekken just jump into the point with Oathkeeper as she's excited and greatly admires him.

Yuuki: I had watched your fight against the Commander in Floor 75! It was genuinely pretty cool!

Oathkeeper: ...He was-

Yuuki: Never mind! I want you to teach me some moves! I bet you have some of those mid-air attacks!

Oathkeeper: ...Wai-

Yuuki: Oh oh oh! Maybe you can be my sparring partners! Or maybe partners in arm!

Koharu: Wait! You're disturbing his response!

She snaps out..

Yuuki: Eh! Sorry! I was getting too pump out just from seeing him!

Koharu: It's all right! Why don't you try it now? We currently have a raid tonight and you girls are invited so our time's kinda tight. Anyway, have you informed Keita yet, Sachi?

Sachi: Yes.. I had sent him the plan and he's probably forming out the squads just like Oathkeeper requested.

Koharu: Nice!

Yuuki: So shall we get to the point? I can't wait!

Timeskip...

Before the match starts, all 5 Valkyries except their Leader, Koharu, had positioned themselves around him. Oathkeeper unsheathes his Sword.

Oathkeeper: All-out battle.. Huh?

Yuuki: Sorry about that! But our time's kinda tight so we all go on you at the same time. But I'm sure you can handle all of us since you're so strong!

All of his opponents got into their battle stances. Sinon pulls her Radiant Bow and aims at him with the Sunrise Arrow. Silica grabs out her Thundara Dagger, Lisbeth sweeps out her Doom's Tip Two-handed Spear, Sachi unsheathes her Purifier One-handed Sword and her Holy Guardian's Shield. And last, Yuuki pulls out two Obsidian Slashers and both are actually One-handed Swords that got Oathkeeper's attention.

Oathkeeper: She's dual wielding as well... Interesting..

Yuuki: Don't you dare underestimate us!

She makes her first move towards him. Oathkeeper dodges her first double strikes, parries her Twin Slash combos and makes a counter slash. Yuuki reacts fast enough to back away from his slash smoothly. But Oathkeeper launches up a follow up by lunging forward, surprising her.

Yuuki: !!

She blocks his thrust attacks with both of her blade. Then she is able to push him back after she times it perfectly. But Oathkeeper retaliates back, not showing any mercy. Yuuki tries to block again but her guard got shattered by his heavy attack.

Yuuki: What!?

Oathkeeper: Nice try pushing me away!

He notices someone is charging towards him. He hops up and notices it was Lisbeth's Hellish Javelin skill with her Two-handed Spear.

Lisbeth: He dodged it!?

While he's still in the air, he notices a barrage of arrows are going to rain down from the sky by Sinon's Arrow Rain skill.

Sinon: Got you...

Oathkeeper gains controls on the air, landing away from the Arrow Rain, dodging. Silica takes her chance to land a strike on him.

Silica: Here I come!

Oathkeeper could sense her presence since the Valkyries wouldn't hesitate on him. Oathkeeper swiftly dodges her slice attacks and sweeps her legs, making her trip down.

Silica: Huh!?

As Oathkeeper's blade is about to descend on Silica straight down. Suddenly, Sachi cuts in between them and block his attack with her Holy Guardian's Shield. Oathkeeper is surprised by Sachi's capabilities.

Oathkeeper: (Sachi!?)

She charges up her Sword with Buster Blade. Forming up a Heaven's Cross Sword.

Sachi: Haah!

She charges forward with her shield at the front. As she swings her Purifier One-handed Sword. Her melee range increases abnormally that exceeds Oathkeeper's expectations.

Oathkeeper: !!

He hops away from her range. Sachi catches up tp him but Oathkeeper keeps on hopping in the air. Suddenly, Sachi throws a slash wave projectile straight towards him. Oathkeeper reacts it fast enough to dodge away from the slash wave with his air movement control. He lands on the ground, quickly recover his balance. He mumbles under his hood.

Oathkeeper: They all sure really grew up so much.. It'll be a terror when they all work together. But I still can see their levels.

Then, he begins to examine their strategy to figure out their timing. All of them are preparing for his next move.

Oathkeeper: (Yuuki.. Level 138.. She's a main DPS with the help of level 96, Lisbeth and the level 89, Silica. They'll launch a ceaseless barrage of attacks if I get too close to one of them.)

Then, he inspects Sinon who positioned herself far away from him and the other Valkyries.

Oathkeeper: (If I back off too far, I'll be at Sinon's field of fire who's at level 113. And Sachi... Level 108- !!)

He notices a shield is about to bash right on his face while he's still in his thought.

*Tush!*

It was a clean hit. As he snaps out, Oathkeeper could see a serious expression from Sachi's face while she's still making the hit. Oathkeeper quickly retaliates back and launches a counter attack. She quickly ducks and blocks his fist, then back away from his slash.

Oathkeeper: Damn it..! I got too carried away.. But I could tell just from that blow, the Sachi I knew is completely gone once she's in a battle like this.

Then, he turns around just to see Koharu just sitting at the grass, looking at him with concern about if he's okay with it.

Oathkeeper: (...I hate this.. The part I prohibited myself to use any unique skills on them is already a bad idea because I relied on them too much. No.. I made that decision because I underestimated their powers.)

He cracks his neck, refreshing his mind and sharpening his sense.

Oathkeeper: ...I'm falling behind.. And I didn't even notice that until now.. I have to take one step and another.. And..

He raises up his Sword and descends down, changing his battle stance.

Yuuki: Be careful, everyone.. I think he's gonna pull off some tricks...

He lunges himself forward.. Straight towards Yuuki.

Oathkeeper: You'll be my first step!!!

Yuuki: !!

She parries his attacks, one and another. Without any hesitation, Oathkeeper sweeps her legs, using the same methods as he did to Silica.

Lisbeth: Same attack!? You're not resourceful, aren't you!?

Lisbeth swings her Doom's Tip, executing a wide range of barrage attacks. Oathkeeper dodges it and repels back. Then, as she makes her finisher move by launching herself with her weapon towards him at point-blank range. Oathkeeper suddenly makes a sway back, his upper body lays back while standing still.

Lisbeth: At this point, a sway back!?

As he rises back up, his eyes shot her with killer instinct..

Lisbeth: !!

Oathkeeper throws a punch on her weapon, launches the spear high up to the sky.

Lisbeth: My weapon!!

Instead of launching a counter attack, Oathkeeper moves to his next target, Silica.

Silica: !!

Sinon: Get away from him!

She runs away as far as she can to escape from him who is attempting to chase her down.

Sinon: (He's using Silica as his shield! I can't get a shot!)

Oathkeeper: What's wrong? Can't fight me one on one? Aren't you going to ambush me right after I deal with Lisbeth!?

Silica: (He figured it out!?)

Oathkeeper launches a series of attacks on her with low attack speed. Keeping Silica busy on blocking and dodging. Then, as he keeps on, his attack start speeding up after each hits until it breaks through her guard. But Silica takes the cue and backs away, giving Sinon a chance to land her shots on him.

Silica: Sinon!

Sinon: Got it, Silica!

Oathkeeper looks up and notices a barrage of arrows are about to rain on him. He is about to hop away but Pina suddenly rushes towards him recklessly. Oathkeeper catches it and throws it down on the ground.

Silica: Pina!

Without any hesitation, she rushes to Pina's aid as her priority. Oathkeeper takes his chance and manage to catch three of the Arrows projectiles in the air fired by Sinon just with his fingers. The Archer just notices the unexpected outcome.

Sinon: Did he just-!?

Oathkeeper throws the arrows straight towards Sachi.

Sinon: Sachi!

*Ping!* *Ping!* *Ping!*

She blocks the arrows with her shield. And replies back..

Sachi: I'm fine!

As she lowers her guard.. Unexpectedly, a Two-handed Spear suddenly launched towards her that managed to shock her.

Sachi: A Two-handed Spear!?

Sachi recalls it back immediately.

Sachi: It was that moment when he fought Lisbeth!

As the Spear is about to penetrate through her entirely. Oathkeeper catches it completely and drops it down. Sachi stares at him with still shockingly before backing away as she admits defeat.

Yuuki: No way!

Sinon: He got three of us now...

Koharu: As I expected... Nothing will stop him once he enters his killer instinct.

He maintains on his position, inspecting the formation on the two.

Oathkeeper: Two left... Sinon and Yuuki.. Those two are tough.

He rushes to Sinon as he decides to take out the long range first before taking on the main DPS. But Yuuki knows what he's up to.

Yuuki: Nuh-uh! Not a chance!

*Sword clash*

She successfully defends the Archer. Fighting Oathkeeper head on.

Yuuki: Tsunami Slash!!!

She swings out countless of slashes on him in a mere second. Oathkeeper still can find the gap between her waves of strikes. So he swings at her, parries one of her Swords on her left. Yuuki decides to swing another one in for the attack. But Oathkeeper swings a roundhouse kick with his left leg that stomps on her right arm which she uses it for landing a strike on him.

Yuuki: How!?

She got pushed down and dominated by him instantly. He pins her right arm and raises his right leg, about to stomp right on her face, revealing his sparking red eyes.

Yuuki: Those eyes..!

Oathkeeper: You'd be dead if you're standing on the other side...

He releases her arm and glares at Sinon who is still aiming at him with three arrows on her bow.

Oathkeeper: ...You're not gonna fight me alone.. Aren't you?

Sinon: I'd rather fight to the end than running away!!

She releases 8 volleys of arrows to the sky. Then, she fires out multiple shots of arrows with Status ailments applied. Oathkeeper dodges the Arrow Rain while blocking the direct arrow attacks from Sinon. Oathkeeper could still be able to catch some of the arrows, only 4 in maximum. He throws all fours, deflects four of her incoming attacks, creates an opening for him.

Sinon: His aim is sharp!

He swings his Sword directly on her head, but the blade stops right next to her neck.

Oathkeeper: I win..

He sheathes his Sword while Koharu compliments for both sides.

Koharu: Nice fight, guys!

Yuuki: Geez..! You're being too harsh on us! I seriously thought you're going to kill me!

Oathkeeper: ...Sorry.. That's what I do every single day.

Koharu: Sorry about for him being too serious on you all. He always fighting other PKers that would cost his life so he never lets anyone off. At least he knows what he's doing, right?

Yuuki: Hm... Maybe that makes sense. But still, that really hurts!

The other sighs about their loss.

Silica: I can't believe he figured out our attacks.

Pina: Pina...

Sachi: I thought we could corner him. I shouldn't lower my guard too earlier.

Sinon: You did well, Sachi. It's just we still have more rooms to grow. Hopefully, the Army hasn't catch up our levels yet.

Oathkeeper: You fought against the Army before?

She nods..

Sinon: Yeah.. We all joined the MBC because Koharu needs our help. Then, she decided to form a squad with us called as the Valkyries. With that, the guild is safe.. For now..

Koharu: But we're going to hit them back tonight. It's our only chance to free ourselves from all of our suffers we had been through.

Lisbeth: With Oathkeeper on our sides, I'm damn sure he'll tear the Army apart!

Silica: But I'm sure we'll suffer casualties on our sides.

Koharu: We won't, Silica. Oathkeeper is strong enough to carry the entire fight.

Yuuki: Just how strong is he?

Koharu: Well.. Strong enough to take down thousands of mobs at once and able to clean up an entire Floor.

Yuuki: Wow... Seems like you know so much about him.. I'm actually kinda jealous right now..

Koharu: What?

Yuuki: Nothing! I'm just glad you get the chance to meet him! I just wish I get to know him first but it's okay!

Koharu: Okay? So anyway, we should be prepared ourselves for tonight so we'll be heading back to the HQ. And Oathkeeper..

Oathkeeper: ?

Koharu: In the meantime, Keita wants to meet you in person at the HQ as well. Me and the girls will be forming out the squads and sharpening our skills. I'll send a private message to you once we're done.

Oathkeeper: *Nod* I'm heading there now.

Koharu: Alright! Let's go, girls!

They all take out their Crystal. Teleport to Floor 11 where MBC Headquarters is.

Timeskip... Aincrad Standard Time, 1:00. Floor 11, Moonlit Black Cats HQ.

They both separate for a while to deal with their stuff. Koharu leads the Valkyries to the training area while Oathkeeper heads to the Meeting room. He knocks on the door.

Keita: Come in.

Oathkeeper enters in..

Keita: Lai! It's really nice to see you alive.

Oathkeeper: What's the issues here?

Keita: Nothing. It's just.. Our time has finally arrived, huh? Never thought our guild had managed this far.

Oathkeeper: What's your point?

Keita: Sorry.. I just wanna say thanks to you and Koharu. Like really, without you and Koharu's assistance. Things will be completely different right now.

Oathkeeper: ...Yeah..

Keita: And also, I had trained the units like you requested. They should be able to follow up the Valkyries's orders.

Oathkeeper: Thanks..

Keita: Don't sweat it.. By the way..

Oathkeeper: ?

Keita: How's your doing with Koharu? You looked like you've been through a lot. Maybe you should rest in the HQ?

Oathkeeper: I only rest when I die.

Keita: Oh.. Just.. Don't push yourself, okay?

Oathkeeper: Need you to say?

He got a private message from Koharu.

Hey Lai,

I just finished forming up the squads and the members are doing well with their leaders. Looks like Keita done a good job there. I'll meet you outside the HQ.

Sincerely,
Koharu

After reading the message, Oathkeeper takes his leave from the Meeting Room.

Oathkeeper: She just sent a message to me. I'm leaving..

Keita: See you on the battlefield then, Oathkeeper.

Timeskip...

After the talk, he went outside.. Just noticed her standing there.

Oathkeeper: Koharu..

Koharu: Hey, how's the talk with Keita?

Oathkeeper: It was fine.. He was just thanking us for all of the things we've done so far for the world.

Koharu: Really? I guess people are starting to appreciate us. That's a good thing to hear.

Oathkeeper: Yeah..

Them, she tries to ask him out.

Koharu: So.. Do you still have other things to do?

Oathkeeper: ..I need training.. In Floor 75.

She got shocked..

Koharu: What!? Why?

Oathkeeper: Do you remember that boss raid in the dungeon? It almost got the both of us.

Koharu: ...Oh.. Yeah... But you can see its level, right?

Oathkeeper: Yeah.. To be precise, it only appears in Floor 96 as the dungeon boss and it has 3 phases. God knows how the bosses above Floor 96 will look like.

Koharu: But we only hit Floor 75 just a few days ago.. And I can tell the KoB members and other Assault Team Players are still doing the expeditions.

Oathkeeper: And we're heading there as well..

Koharu: Ehh!? You're not kidding, aren't you!? You're gonna take over the dungeon!?

Oathkeeper: We're falling behind.. Can't let them step up to our heads.

Koharu: What if the commander is there too? I can't tell what he's gonna do to you.

Oathkeeper: I'm far more stronger than all of the KoB members. He can't do anything to me..

Koharu: But you both got drew after that match..

Oathkeeper: !!

After remembering how he beat Kirito, his fist hardens up..

Oathkeeper: ...I will defeat him..

Koharu: His power has match up to you. I can say he's just being absurdly lucky but... I sensed something wrong about him.

Oathkeeper: Huh? You do?

Koharu: Not sure what is it but I can confirm it's true after how he battled against Kirito.

Oathkeeper: Is that so?

She changes the subject as they don't want to bring that up again.

Koharu: Never mind.. Anyway, can I go with you? Two is better than one for this, just like last time.

Oathkeeper: Sure thing...

Koharu: Okay!

He sends out a party invitation to her and she gladly accepts it. She seems pretty excited about being invited to his party.

Oathkeeper: ?

Koharu: You know.. This is first time you would send me a party invitation.

Oathkeeper: ...Yeah..

He takes out a Teleport Crystal..

Oathkeeper: You're coming or not?

Koharu: Oh! I'm coming!

Timeskip... Floor 75, Collinia.

After reaching the main city of Floor 75, the duo decided to conquer the dungeon located beneath the main city as their newest place for leveling. Once they step at the entrance, both of them unsheathe their weapons.

Koharu: Let's just drive them out and try not to.. Get rid of any players, okay?

Oathkeeper: I can't guarantee you that because they won't hesitate on us.

Koharu: You got a point I guess.. But it just doesn't suit me for some reasons.

Oathkeeper: ...You don't have to.. Seriously..

Koharu: Well.. Unless we have to.. Then I've got no choice but to get rid of them. Plus, it's kinda risky going there without any info about the boss...

Oathkeeper: *annoyed sigh* Just stay close...

He enters the dungeon first..

Koharu: Hey, wait for me!

Then, she joins him into the dungeon. The map theme is an huge underground sewer system. Along with several mobs spawn at every tunnels. They slash through their way to the boss room which located at the deepest area of the sewer in Collinia. They walked passed some other Assault Team Players and some parties filled with KoB members who are glaring at them with serious look but the duo ignored all of them while on their way. Koharu feels a bit terrified from all the bad vibes of the other players. Oathkeeper casually lifts up the gate with one hand, waiting for Koharu to get through. The other players went dumbfounded as soon as they just witnessed him doing that.

Other players: *gulp*

Oathkeeper: Through here..

Koharu: Oh thanks!

After they both went in, Oathkeeper drops the gate down and Koharu let out a sigh of relief.

Koharu: They didn't even try to stop us..

Oathkeeper: They are wise and know my temper very well.

Koharu: Well I expected a big fight.. But thank god we're safe...

Oathkeeper: Not yet...

Koharu: Huh?

As she looks where he just noticed at, she just let out another sigh but annoyed..

Koharu: Oh great... KoB at the front of the boss room..

Oathkeeper: Stay close..

From what they noticed in front of them is a large raid group filled with 50 of KoB's strongest members including the 4 Commanders and the Guild Leader, Heathcliff. They all heard the gate's noise.

Heathcliff: Oathkeeper... Angel Blade... Came here to take down the boss?

Oathkeeper: ...

They response back with silence and moves forward together with cautious. The KoB members start forming into their formations.

KoB Commander: We won't let you pass! This territory is belong to the KoB from now on!

He keeps on moving forward without any hesitation or backing off at all. As the KoB members is about to attack. Heathcliff suddenly changes his mind.

Heathcliff: Let them have it...

KoB Commander: What!?

Heathcliff: The world still needs the guardians. There's no point fighting them over such trivial matters like this.

KoB Commander: Tsk...! Men! Lower your guard!

The KoB's First Army lower their guard just like Commander saif. Suddenly, a player just launched an attack from above with both holding the sword.

KoB Commander: Wait!

She just notices that it was Nautilus.

Nautilus: I'll defeat you, Oathkeeper!!!

Koharu: Look out!

Oathkeeper hops up and caught Nautilus on the neck. Canceling his attack. He throws Nautilus straight to the ground but didn't stomp him as Oathkeeper decides to toy Nautilus's life.

Oathkeeper: ...You hated me and now you try to kill me with your own strength..? Pathetic...

He watches Nautilus gets up and as soon he recovers from the throw. Oathkeeper zooms right in front of him, surprising him completely.

Nautilus: !!

He takes his chance and executes a Horizontal Square on Oathkeeper. But it got immediately canceled again, as Oathkeeper lands several punches on his chest armor. Then he sweeps the legs, causing Nautilus to tumble. Oathkeeper changes his mind and decides to kill him with Exorcising Fist. He lands a fist straight down towards the falling Nautilus.

*Tush!* *Tush!* *Tush!*

He pummels Nautilus down very hard on the stomach again and again. Destroying his armor and his weapon completely. Then, he stomps right on his face. Pressing his foot down, whittling his HP to red right in front of everyone in the corridor. He grabs his hair and warns.

Oathkeeper: I saw what you did... You can't protect Yuna if you keep running away from your fear... You'll die before Yuna even have the chance.

Nautilus: Guh...!

Oathkeeper throws him back to the KoB, continue back to the boss room. Koharu didn't help him out but only apologize for him with her head bows down.

Koharu: I'm sorry..

Then, she catches up with Oathkeeper. Heathcliff apologizes to them who are heading to the boss room right now.

Heathcliff: I apologized about my-

Oathkeeper shuts him up.

Oathkeeper: Save it.. Because your men has the worst taste scouting someone with mental disorder..

Heathcliff: ...

The duo enter the boss room alone.. Leaving the KoB. As they close the door. Koharu let out a sigh of relief.. Again..

Koharu: Phew... We just avoided another big fight.

Oathkeeper: At least Heathcliff is being rational this time.

Koharu: But he's kinda.. You know, being soft and generous on you?

Oathkeeper: Yeah.. Come to think of it.. I can't be too careless on him..

Koharu: But what about Nautilus? Why's he attacking you so suddenly?

Oathkeeper: ...

He looks at her.. Then, he sighs away as he doesn't want to say it.

Oathkeeper: He hated me.. Like a thorn to his heart. It's all because I meddled too much on Yuna and the KoB's floor progression during our time at the front lines. I gave him a lot of pressure back then for being too weak and about how he messed up during the KoB's boss raid. And Yuna starts focusing on us instead of him because she wanted to be a capable supporter with her chanting skills, also along with her singing talent.

Koharu: So he was blinded with jealousy... Because of us?

Oathkeeper: Correct... But I don't feel any sympathy for him.

Her guilts haunts her..

Koharu: ...Aren't you being too cruel on him?

She crosses her arms.. Instead of getting mad, she just upsets about his decisions making. Oathkeeper apologizes to her..

Oathkeeper: ...I'm sorry that you have to deal with the decisions I made that would upset you a lot..

She stops him..

Koharu: No.. I just... I don't know why... Are we really being selfish that time?

Oathkeeper: No..! We helped Yuna because we wanted her to be strong so Nautilus doesn't have to worry about her. That means we're helping him as well! If he doesn't help himself from that, that means there's nothing we can do for him! You do noticed he only lives because of her!

Koharu: *sigh* Maybe you're right.. But I can still feel the guilt.

She went silent a bit, resting her mind.

Oathkeeper: Koharu...

Koharu: ...?

He holds her hand, giving her mental support..

Oathkeeper: I don't wish to change you.. Koharu..

Koharu: How?

Oathkeeper: I don't see that smile of yours whenever you're with me. It clearly tells me that you're upset..

She replies back with a pout..

Koharu: But yet I still insist to be with you... Even it's kinda tormenting for me sometimes..

Oathkeeper: I'm sorry...

Koharu: Don't worry... At least I'm not alone... I can endure the pain and suffering as long as I have you..

Oathkeeper: Why...? Why are you saying that?

Koharu: Because I really need you by my side all the time. It's just the reality itself doesn't work like we expected. I assumed you already noticed how everything in this world changes you completely. But I still believed that innocent side of yours is still there, deep inside of you.. That's why I insisted myself to stay by your side. Maybe once we get back to our real world, maybe we can change back so we can be happily together without worrying life and death..

Oathkeeper: ...Koharu...

Suddenly, her lips presses against his, planting a deep kiss before releasing.

Koharu: Don't worry about me.. I can still endure it until we overcome all of this.. Even the world tries to break us apart. I'm sure we both are strong enough to recover.

Oathkeeper: ...

A dungeon boss suddenly appears at the center of the room that alerts the duo.

Koharu: Looks like we have to move forward.

He holds her hand again, stopping her as he has something to say to her.

Koharu: Huh?

Oathkeeper: ...Thank you..

Then, she finally smiles..

Koharu: We'll overcome this..

He releases her and both of them unsheathe their weapons.

Koharu: Let's go, Lai!

Timeskip...

After 5 minutes, the boss was defeated and they successfully occupied the entire dungeon as their territory. Koharu's level raises up from Lv 188 to Lv 189 while Oathkeeper's level raises up from Lv 333 to Lv 334 so far. Koharu went dumbfounded as she noticed his level rose up very quick.

Koharu: How did you leveled up so much!? Last time I remembered, you were at Lv 285 in Floor 74!

Oathkeeper: Oh.. If you "defeat" a player. The player drops 100% of the exp that he or she had accumulated so far. Plus, I had Exp perks on so you know.

Koharu: That clears my suspicions.. Most of the players had reached Lv 80 or above but only a few of them actually reached Lv 100 or more because of the Army's influence..

Oathkeeper: ...Which has millions of exp accumulated so far. That's why they charged a lot higher.

Koharu: Yeah.. So you get to defeat one player, you get to raise for a few levels.

Oathkeeper: Correct...

Koharu: That's messed up.. I bet that's what the Army wants. Sacrificing the civilians to satisfy their desire for power..

Oathkeeper: But anyway, we got what we wanted. Let's go..

Koharu: Where to?

Oathkeeper: Back home.. I think we're prepared for tonight's raid..

Koharu: Yeah.. We just need some rest and some recovery. Let's stack up our supplies. I'm sure we are going to need those a lot.

Oathkeeper: Sounds good..

They both leave the boss room..

End Of Chapter...