(Art created by y2n4zee in Instagram.)

(Author's note: 14706 Words this time. Please give some credits on this one too.)

Year 2024, November 3rd.. Aincrad Standard Time, 8:00am.. Floating Palace.

After that night, Lai and Koharu already woke up in the morning, resuming back to their own research about their new weapons left by the ALF. Sadly, they both have been in silent for most of their today's morning, trying not to mention about what happened last night and focusing what is ahead of them. Koharu is now training herself in target practice with her Nailgun. Her eyes aims down to the Custom Iron Sight installed by Lai, with a 3-pointed Iron Crown on the muzzle and an Iron Ring on the end of the barrel where her sight can narrow down with. Since her STR is raised yesterday, she is able to shoot with it one-handed. Most of her shots successfully "nails" the scarecrow. She happily tells Lai who is currently crafting a drum magazine for the Nailgun about the Iron Sight's test.

Koharu: The Iron Sight is a success!

Lai: Nice. Any suggestions I can possibly do for your weapon?

Koharu: Well.. I think it's already A-okay for me.. Maybe there are some upgradables you can do for this?

He lists out his suggestion..

Lai: Larger Capacity, Less Recoil and Faster Motor for more RPM.

She curiously asks.

Koharu: RPM?

He explains it while holding her Nailgun and analyzes it.

Lai: Rounds per minute. Which means how much ammo a weapon can fire in a minute.

Koharu: So that means more RPM means faster firing speed?

Lai: Yes.. But it'll chew a lot of ammo in the results. Here, put this in.

He tosses the 80 rounds Drum Magazine to her and Koharu catches it, happily thanks him as her response.

Koharu: Oh! Thanks!

Lai: I'll try to disassemble the Nailgun parts and see what parts I can improve with. Also..

He brings out a crate of 139.7mm nails and places beside Koharu.

Lai: Help yourself out if your gun's dry.

Koharu: Okay!

Lai resumes back to his work while Koharu reloads with the drum mag he just gave her, connects the mag to the chamber. After that, they both focus on their doing. Koharu, who is always starts a conversation with her partner, is now remains back to silent, despite she has no issues with him at all.. As for Lai, he notices Koharu who is being very into her training so he decides not to interrupt her. After almost a minute, Koharu comments out about the drum mag Lai gave her.

Koharu: Lai.. The Drum mag isn't fit for me. The weight when swinging around is heavy.

He immediately responses to her.

Lai: Really? Maybe you should stick to the default one.

Koharu: I agree..

She picks up all of the empty mag she had used for her training, and start replenishing them back up with the ammunitions from the crates. Before doing it, she brings the crate and all of the empty mags, purposely sits right next to him who is examining at the weapon internal's operation while pulling the trigger. Curiously asks about his doing.

Koharu: What're you doing right now?

He immediately responds to her while focusing on the weapon.

Lai: Figuring out the process of how the nails got launched out..

She gives her concern toward him.

Koharu: Doing okay so far?

He shakes his head..

Lai: It's very difficult for me.. I've seen people disassembling firearms and attachments in the showcase videos. But I never done it before, especially it's a Nailgun that I'm gonna disassemble with.

She nods as she understands.

Koharu: I see...

Koharu grabs several nails, inserting one by one into the clip until it's full. She already feels satisfied just only sitting next to him, but it didn't help the silent situation at all. Until Lai comes up with a question to break it since he can tell Koharu's being too attached to him.

Lai: So.. How was last night?

She instantly responds back with a smile.

Koharu: Ah! It was romantic! The dance part probably's the best one! But there's only one thing that I really regret about.

Lai: Which is?

She stutters a bit while her face suddenly start blushing.

Koharu: I- I should've brought a dress for that..

He paused for a bit, then proceed back to his work.

Lai: Oh.. I've never seen you wearing other outfits except that armor of yours and your pajamas. I just noticed that.

Koharu: Well, have I told you that I like to wear anything that isn't possible for me to obtain in real life before?

He stops for a while to recall that time. Took him a couple of seconds to remember something from a year ago.

Lai: Yeah.. I think so..

She continues..

Koharu: And.. Remember that time I said "I don't think you're mature enough to date with yours truly."?

His eyes narrows..

Lai: Yeah.. And surprisingly, I still remember that part in Floor 10 very clear. Not sure why..

She chuckles nervously.

Koharu: Ah! That was just a joke! I'm really sorry for saying that!

Lai: That was a year ago. No point apologizing that.

Koharu: Still, I gotta make it clear. Especially my view on you had totally changed.

He paused his work and looks at her.

Lai: Then how will you look at me as right now?

She happily lists out his attributes that she knows so far.

Koharu: A person with overpoweredly strong, kind-hearted, brave, the one who would fight for the others, also the one who especially knows how to gain a girl's heart.

Lai: Isn't the last one sounds wrong? What if I done something wrong?

She suddenly stares at him with her angry looks. Jokingly says while inserting the nails.

Koharu: Well.. You'll be remain in my heart forever.

Her sudden yandere expression sends a danger signal to Lai. Causing him to drop a sweat.

Lai: *Sweatdrops* It's just a joke. I only know how to win your heart.

She sheathes her dagger back, reassuring him.

Koharu: It's okay, I know you won't.. Should've say more precisely. But hey..

He looks at her..

Lai: Hm?

Koharu: What happen to those who managed to escape the game? What do you think?

Lai: ...

He pauses a bit, searching answers that would satisfy her question. Then resumes back to his work while replying back.

Lai: Their families, friends and their soulmates must be overjoyed to see them alive. I expected tears of joy being shedded out a lot, like a river.

He pauses for a bit, shifting his focus on reading at the data note that explains the function of each weapon parts. He calls out to Koharu.

Lai: I need a weapon oil. Do we have that?

She checks the storage for it. Shakes her head as she couldn't find any.

Koharu: I don't think we have that yet.

Lai: Damn..

Koharu: What's wrong?

Lai: I.. I can't perform any modifications without risking damaging the parts. So I think only weapon oil should at least makes the gun operates smoother. I'm sorry..

Koharu: Oh, it's okay. I'll go get one from Lisbeth right now. Wait for me..

She quickly teleports to Floor 48.. While Lai still sitting there, helps her fill up the rest of the empty clips in the meantime. He also start wondering about something else..

Lai: ...I feel the time's running out.. What should I do..?

He dwells his thoughts on his partner, Koharu, and their whole journey so far. Then, he remembers that time Koharu swore that she can handle anything that the world would throw at her, as along as she's with me.. But he hardly remembers what floor did she said that. Somewhere between Floor 13 and Floor 10.

Lai: Is it Floor 13? 12? But my instincts told me it's Floor 11..

A sudden image flash through his mind, the image that happens in Floor 20.. That alone is enough to traumatize him. He immediately shakes his head and snaps out from his thoughts, convincing himself. But he didn't realize that he started to panic.

Lai: Tough it up.. Lai... You ain't dead yet.. So keep moving.. Until you get everyone out from this hellhole..

He speeds up his work by forcefully pushing multiple nails into the clip.

Timeskip... Aincrad Standard Time, 9:00am..

She just returned back to the Floating Palace, holding a several boxes of weapon oils. As she arrives to where their training ground is, the first thing that she sees is her partner, Lai who is now taking a nap on the grass, then she notices all of the empty clips are now filled and arranged nicely in stacks. She giggles quietly but happily.

Koharu: Hehe.. You must be exhausted for figuring out the Nailgun.. Thanks for your help, Lai..

She slowly walks up to him, decided to lie down with him and cuddle. But unfortunately, she got pinned by Lai who suddenly woke up and about to attack her.

Koharu: Ah! Wait!

He immediately retracts his attack away as he realizes that it's his partner, mistaking her as someone with bad intentions. His eyes widened up and revealing out his scared expression, he helps her up immediately.

Lai: I'm sorry! Did I hurt you!?

Koharu, who is still shocked by his natural reaction. Replies back as she snaps out from it.

Koharu: Y-Yeah! I'm fine!

Despite she didn't get hurt at all. He suddenly hugs her tightly.. She got confused..

Koharu: Lai?

The next thing she could hear is his silent sobs, causing her to start worrying about him..

Koharu: Lai! Are you okay!?

He confesses how he had felt while she's away.. She could tell that he is traumatized just by his tone.

Lai: I'm sorry... I'm so sorry! I should've return back! To you! But I abandoned you! I left you alone! I'm so sorry, Koharu!

Koharu: Huh?

Lai: I did what you told me to in Floor 20, but I left you that day! I.. I just know I can't forgive myself because of that!

His words causes impact to her heart, Koharu slowly understands what he's talking about and pats on his back. She hugs back tightly, comforting him. Her tears start shedding out while whispering to his ear.

Koharu: Don't be.. Because you didn't.. You went up far ahead and create a path for me. Since Kirito and Asuna took care of me, I never gave you up every single seconds while you were away..

He struggles to reply her as he sobs more..

Lai: But that time.. It really.. It really hurts me..

She caresses his hair. Softly tells him to let it out.

Koharu: It's okay... Let it out... I know you have been holding it up for a long time..

He let out his cries just as she told him to.. After a few minutes, his emotion slowly becomes stable as he finally calms down. They both who are still hugging, gently lies down to the grass together. The couple look at each other. Koharu could still feel his breath breezes on her face as he is worn out from their painful past.

Koharu: It'll be temporary.. Because it's all in the past as memories. I'm still here, still staying by your side. With our power combined, nobody can do anything to us.. With our feelings connected, nothing can separate us..

She grabs his hand, place his palm onto her chest. Letting him feel her heartbeat while closing her eyes, smiling.

Koharu: And can you feel my affection towards you?

He replies back tiredly, but still showing her with his pure grin.

Lai: Yeah..

She responds to him with her love.

Koharu: You can feel it.. So don't be afraid, Lai.. I already knew everything that you've done in the past. And I accepted every last of them..

He asks softly..

Lai: Is everything okay while I was gone?

She nods with a grin. Reassuring him that she and everyone had been doing very fine.

Koharu: Everything was peaceful, the Assault Team are able to advance through the floor bosses without worrying anyone sabotaging the plan.. I can hardly encounter any Orange players, like the rate of it is less than 1%, I assumed that the Red players are already went extinction.. But of course, they all ultimately were no match for me. How about you?

He mutters a bit as he hesitates to confess..

Lai: I... I've been hunting down the Orange and the Red for almost a year. Sending death threats to those who tries to make innocent player suffer. With Diavel's information gathering, no one has able to escape from what they've done and received their own punishment.

She softly says her thanks to him, minimize his guilt to its lowest.

Koharu: So all the peace that me and everyone had been given was made by you.. Thank you..

He looked away, couldn't bear to look at her reaction before he confesses.

Lai: When I thought about you, the first thing in my mind is that you will hate me and end our relationship..

She brings his face, willingly to make an eye contact with him.

Koharu: But you fought back because of me, you chose that because I told you to.. I have to own up to my fault.

She continues..

Koharu: At first, I cried a lot in the night after realizing all the sacrifices that you had made in exchange of peace for everyone. Your hand has already tainted, but your heart is still pure.. Because you still think of me as your partner.

He can feel his heart just got released from a boulder, letting out a sigh..

Lai: I'm relieved then..

Koharu: It's okay.. No one will be hurt, it's all thanks to you. You carried the world's burden on your own.

She cuddles him, pulling his head close to her chest, letting him feel her heartbeat.

Koharu: (You needed me.. That's why I never gave you up.. I really can't bear to see you suffer.)

The duo rest their mind on the grass.. Calm wind start breezing through their avatars. Drowsiness starts invading their mind and falls asleep.

Timeskip... Aincrad Standard Time, 10:30am.

The sky is still in clear blue condition. Koharu finally wakes up, but could not feel his embrace anymore and knowing that he has already woke up. Surprisingly, he had cleaned up everything in the training ground as well. He notices her just woke up, giving her his usual smile.

Lai: You finally awake.. Koharu..

Koharu: How long did I slept?

Lai: Just an hour and a half.. Thanks for your comfort..

She replies back shyly..

Koharu: Ah.. Don't be.. That's what a life partner always does.

He smiles to her reply. Then, he notifies her that her weapon is done with the upgrade.

Lai: Oh yeah.. I applied the oil on your Nailgun. I tested it and it works much better. Try it out on your own.

He hands her over the Nailgun with Customized Iron Sight. Accepts his appreciation after receiving it.

Koharu: Thanks.

She tries with a few of burst shot, she could tell that the fire rate had slightly increase by 10. Additionally, the oil's effect also prevents the weapon getting rusty until the effect's end. She happily tells her partner.

Koharu: It works well!

Lai: I'm glad..

She unloads the clip and replaces with a fresh one before storing it back. She turns at Lai who just carries a bag on him, waiting for her before leaving together. Giving out her concerns towards him.

Koharu: Hey.. Are you feeling well right now?

He looks at her, taking a breath.

Lai: Yeah.. Feeling a bit shaky..

She gives out a pleasant smile.

Koharu: Don't worry..

She slowly walks to him, then lunges forward and gives a surprise hug to him.

Koharu: We'll make it out from this world. I know we will. I won't give up until at least getting you out of here.

Lai: Me too.. Our promises still hasn't finished yet..

She gives a smooch on his lips before releasing herself from their hug.

Koharu: We should help cleaning up the party last night.

Lai: Sure..

They both carried all the items they brought along, the duo teleport back to Floor 22.

Timeskip... Floor 22, Serene Shore..

After placing their stuff on their room in Log Cabin, they went back to the venue. Surprisingly, several MBC members, Sachi, Kirito and Asuna are helping out stacking up the chairs and tables, cleaning out the mess. Koharu removes all the banner flags from the top of the pole with her Agility, while Lai carries two 50 long stacks of chairs all the way next beside the stage. Everyone are shocked by his STR.

Sachi: Wow... He can carry both stacks?

Koharu adds in..

Koharu: Well, he's able to carry almost anything.

Sachi: I see..

After placing the stacks beside the stage, Lai pauses, suddenly a light bulb pops up above his head as he has an idea. He grabs a chair, putting at the center where it has most spaces. Then, he starts tossing another chair, lands and stacks on the chair perfectly from a distance. As he stacks more from a far, some of the people pause their work and watch his performance, eventually gains Koharu's attention as well.

Koharu: Is he... Stacking the chairs up from a distance!?

The other couple who are carrying the tables, went shocked at his performance.

Kirito: *Sweatdropped* What is he doing?

Asuna: He's just full of surprises..

After 50 chairs successfully stacked, He is still stacking up but requires more power to toss the chair to the top. He keeps on to the 100.

51..

52..

53..

Timeskip...

91..

92..

93..

Everyone had paused their work and join the crowd. They are praising, clapping while watching the tower of chairs still stacking up by Lai. Some passes the chair to him while they all count out for him.

All: 94! 95! 96!

He jumps and tosses the chair up for higher range. It stacks perfectly just as they expected.

All: 97! 98! 99!

As he throws the last one, the chair suddenly loses its position and hit the top of the tower, causing the chair to fall down on Koharu who is staying close to the tower, Lai rushes to his partner, catching her away before the chair hit the ground where she is standing. The chair breaks on impact, Lai releases the hug and gives his concern towards her immediately.

Lai: Are you okay?

Koharu: Yeah!

Then, the wind blows the tower, the crowd disperses away before it all collapses all the way to the shore.

Lai: Now there goes my record..

Koharu: But you did a great job stacking this high!

They both get back up, Lai immediately stores the fallen stacks into his storage. Dispersing the crowd.

Lai: Alright, the show's over! Hope you guys enjoyed it!

The crowd claps to his performance as a response, some of them whistles out loud as their thanks.

Timeskip... Aincrad Standard Time, 12:00pm.

Finally, they all done cleaning up the party, the scene, which filled with tables and chairs is now returns to a clear grass plain. Koharu wipes out her sweat.

Sachi: Good job everyone! You all did great! Especially Lai and Koharu.

Koharu: You're welcome!

When all the MBC left Floor 22, Asuna gladly tells her partner, Lai and Koharu about her prepared lunch.

Asuna: Guys! I had lunch prepared just for the four of us!

Koharu: Nice!

Kirito: Heck yeah! What will it be?

Asuna: It's a surprise! Lai?

She just notices that he frozes there, silent. Like his mind isn't there anymore.

Lai: ...

Asuna: Lai?

Her call snaps him out from it.. His reaction is like getting rudely woke up by an alarm during his deep sleep.

Lai: Huh!? Ah yeah! Where were we on right now?

Asuna sighs..

Asuna: Geez.. Did you sleep enough last night? I had lunch prepared just for the four of us.

Lai: Ah.. Thanks, Asuna.

They all returned back to their Log Cabin.

Timeskip... Log Cabin..

All: Wow!!

Their eyes are filled with shining stars as the three of them got surprised by Chef Asuna who just revealed a Steamboat full of boiled Miso broth soup. Along with some raw ingredients like a plate of thinly slices of meat, well arranged into a circle, a bowl filled with Napa Cabbage, Enoki Mushroom, Tofu served as Japan popular's, Shabu-shabu dishes and some seafoods side dishes like Oyster Omelette. Also with two packs of ramen noodles and some eggs. Asuna explains how she got the ingredients.

Asuna: I stored some of them in the fridge from yesterday! So the food is still in high quality state!

Lai adds in..

Lai: My effort's really paying off this time!

Kirito: Man, I missed the Shabu-shabu dishes!

Both of her palms join together before bows down.

Koharu: Well, Itadakimasu! (Thanks for the food!)

Kirito and Lai does the same as her before starting their meal. Asuna pauses them.

Asuna: Wait! Let's take a picture!

Koharu: Oh, sure!

Lai: Oh yeah! It's rare to get occasion like this!

Asuna grabs a record crystal, letting it float and turns the camera view to the four of them and their "foody" scenery. She sets the timer to 5 so she can join in the group in time.

Asuna: 5..! 4..! 3..! 2..! 1..!

They all do a peace sign while smiling at the crystal.

All: Cheese!

The record crystal releases a snapping shot noises. Capturing their lunch moment. Asuna goes to confirm it, happily jumps a bit.

Asuna: Yay! The picture is so perfect!

Koharu: Then, let's get started!

Asuna turns on the stove's fire to keep the broth boiling, adjusting the heat. Lai grabs some veggies and tofus with his chopsticks and dips inside the miso soup while Koharu pours some soy sauce into the plates each for Lai and herself.

Lai: Thanks!

Koharu: You guys want it?

Kirito: Yeah! Me too!

She pours some of it for Kirito and Asuna. Both say their thanks to her.

Kirito and Asuna: Thanks, Koharu!

She places the sauce away to the window, then she carefully chooses the thickest slice of raw meat from her view, start cooking it by dipping down into the broth, swishing around a bit. Koharu calls him out after dipping her cooked slice in the soy sauce.

Koharu: Here! Open your mouth, Lai!

He does what she just asked from him..

Lai: Ahhh~

His mouth just receives her gift, happily savoring the cooked meat with the soy sauce flavor applied by her.

Lai: It tastes amazing!

She happily responds back with a blissful smile.

Koharu: I'm happy to hear that! I specially chose the thick one just for you!

Lai: Thanks, Koharu!

They all are enjoyed having their own moment. Koharu giggles at the other couple. Asuna tries to do the same to her partner but Kirito refuses her offer as he feels very embarrassed.

Kirito: You know I'm not a kid, Asuna!

Asuna: It's not embarrassing! It's just like what a couple does sometimes!

As the other couple are having their funny struggles, Lai smiles silently as he watches them with Koharu.. Pleasant thoughts flash through his mind.

"My friends.."

Then, he stares at his partner who are giggling at them.. Enjoying her moment as much as she can.

"My partner.."

Then, he stares down and let out a sigh, savoring the happiness he yearned for a long time.

"How long did I have this feeling since last time?"

Lai quietly watches the couple messing around,
Asuna pouts away as she retracts her chopsticks holding a slice of meat from him.

Asuna: You're a meanie.. I guess I won't do this from now on.

Kirito: Wait!

Asuna: Hm? What's that?

She notices his blush as he suddenly have a change of his mind and pleads her.

Kirito: Please... Feed me, Asuna..

Asuna's smile turns from pouting back to her smiling expression and happily offers out to Kirito. He eventually accepts her gift.

Asuna: How is it?

His eyes lit up.

Kirito: It's delicious!

Koharu: Hehe.. You're finally accepted it, Kirito!

She looks back to her partner, who seems to be dazed off.

Koharu: Lai?

He snaps out from it.

Lai: Uhm.. Yeah!

Koharu: You're dazing off again.

Lai: Sorry!

Koharu: What's bothering you lately? Is it because of last night?

Lai: Not really.. I'm just being overthinking as always. Anyway, the veggies are ready to be served! Let's dig in!

Asuna: Sure!

Koharu: ...

She stares at him for a seconds, seems like he is fine on the surface, but she could tell that he feels troubled deep inside. Lai notices her worries start to grow towards him and it's slowing her down. He grabs her bowl, scoops a little amount of broth and some vegetables from the Steamboat to it. Reminding her that they are having their lunch.

Lai: Let's enjoy our moment. And don't you dare ruin it.

She notices her bowl had filled up by him just now.

Koharu: Oh.. Thank you..

She scoops the broth from her bowl. The fragrance already filled her mouth and her heart to the brim as soon as she takes a sip of it.

Koharu: Ahh~ It tastes great!

Asuna: Glad to hear that! I specially made the broth all by myself! I still have some in the jug!

Lai: Impressive as always, Asuna!

Asuna: Thanks! But let's keep all the compliments away for now.

Timeskip... Aincrad Standard Time, 2:00pm.

After the lunch, Koharu asks her partner before deciding to check out the Assault Team at the front lines.

Koharu: Lai.. Wanna pay a visit to Leafa before heading back to the Assault Team? We probably missed Leafa and a lot of things going on at the Front Lines.

He nods..

Lai: Okay.. I'll get my gears.

He turns to the other couple.

Lai: What about you two?

He lies down on the couch, they all could see his bloated belly as he gasps for air.

Kirito: Sure but I'll stay here.. For a while..

Asuna replies them back while cleaning her dishes.

Asuna: You guys go on. The KoB might need your help.

Lai sarcastically responds as his eyes narrows.. Wearing the hood over his head.

Lai: I believe they won't need any..

Koharu: But at least we have to check if Leafa's doing okay.

Lai: Yeah..

He sighs in disappointment..

Lai: So then, we're heading off now.

He leaves the Log Cabin with Koharu, she decides to take a slow walk to the Coral's Teleport Gate instead of using Teleport Crystal to Granzam. Lai got puzzled by her decision.

Lai: Koharu? You know we have Teleport Crystals.

Koharu: I'm doing this for your sake..

He got confused..

Lai: Me?

Koharu: You're about to change back to Oathkeeper once we return back to the Front Lines, right? Suppressing all your emotions and conceal your appearances again?

He jumps a bit, surprised by her guess. But he immediately apologizes to her.

Lai: I'm sorry, I have to be cautious all the time, can't afford letting them get a hold of me, not even my emotions.

Koharu: But! I don't want to see you turning back to be emotionless. I just don't want to say that word..

She continues to explain..

Koharu: When we're in vacation, especially that big party from last night. I had seen your brightest side, you were enjoying it so much that you made everyone happy. Especially me..

His face flushes in red suddenly by her comment.

Lai: Really!? Isn't it too.. Exaggerating?

She immediately confirms with her determined looks.

Koharu: It's true! I had the best night because of you! Because of your smile! I just really missed it..

Her confesses leaves him silent..

Lai: Koharu...

Seeing her who has been missing his usual self, Lai finally takes his hood off.

Lai: I guess it can't be helped..

Koharu: Really?

He sighs a bit..

Lai: Diavel isn't there, gathering information for me anymore.. And I'm now back fighting with you side by side. So I guess I can say it's time for "Oathkeeper" to take some day off.

Her smile reveals on her face, seeing him able to open himself for her.

Koharu: ...Thank you.. For this..

He takes a deep breath, smiling happily as he finally turns back to his bright side.

Lai: I think I'm back to my usual self!

She hops a bit as she's in a very good mood.

Koharu: Yay! Welcome back! Now let's hurry back to the Front Lines!

Lai: Sure! But there's one more thing!

Koharu: Hm? I'm all ears! So what is it?

Lai: So I think I should get a mask, don't you agree?

His suggestion shocks her a bit.

Koharu: Huh!? Why!?

Lai: Hm.. Although I can't hide my emotions anymore, but I still have to conceal my appearance, right?

Koharu: But I see no point of that! Plus, it's embarrassing...

He teases her a bit..

Lai: Well, we should at least get ourselves from one of those elegant masks, in case we get another chance for ballroom dancing!

She got blushed immediately from just imagine them wearing Masquerade masks while dancing. Koharu shyly asking him to stop.

Koharu: S-Stop! You're making me feel embarrassed already! ><"

Lai: You were doing great last night, your elegance moves are really attractive!

She pouts cutely...

Koharu: E-Enough of it already, Lai! Don't make me change my mind.

He finally stops teasing her. Apologizes to her sincerely.

Lai: Alright, alright. Sorry for teasing you a lot. Let's go, Koharu!

Koharu: Geez...

As she watches him going ahead of her, she quietly grins a bit.

Koharu: (You finally changed back to yourself for real.)

She catches up with him to the Gate. Teleporting to Granzam in Floor 55.

Timeskip... Aincrad Standard Time, 2:30pm. KoB's Headquarters in Granzam, Floor 55.

The duo arrives at the Guild's HQ, visiting Leafa in her room, located at fifth floor of the huge steel tower. Koharu knocks on the door.

Koharu: Leafa! We're here!

Leafa responds as soon as she can.. Opening the door for them.

Leafa: Koharu! Appreciate for coming all the way here!

The Blonde Elf girl welcomes them in. They both sit on the lower level of the bunk bed, she starts up a conversation as she notices Lai's changes.

Leafa: You're not covering your appearances with that hood of yours anymore, Lai.

Lai: Well, a lot of things happened back then.

Leafa: I guess I'll ask Kazuto once I got time. I just heard you guys were having fun last night. I'm kinda disappointed you didn't invite me over.

Koharu: Sorry, Leafa.. We only gathered the Civilian Players, and it's hard to explain the reason.

Leafa: Why?

Lai: Well, they've returned back to where they truly belong to.

His words got her confused..

Leafa: I'm sorry, come again?

Koharu: Well... Mind if you lend me your ear?

Leafa: Sure.

Koharu whispers to Leafa's sharp pointy ears, explaining what had actually happened to them, also about the console and especially the error that happened to a few of them. Leafa bursts in joy after hearing it.

Leafa: It's a great news! The people must be very happy getting back to the real world!

Koharu: Yeah, I knew you would say that. But..

Leafa: But?

Koharu: I'm sorry that I didn't message or tell you anything about it. You could have your chance to escape if I did.

Leafa: Did my brother managed to escape the game?

He shakes his head.

Lai: No.. He hasn't yet..

Leafa: Then, I'm not leaving either!

Koharu: You sure?

Leafa: My goal is to help the players to beat the game and get my brother alive from this game. But why he didn't take his chance to leave?

Lai: We tried to save all of the people. But something bizarre happened. And most surprised, your brother has uh.. a God tier level in programming. Care to explain that?

She advices him.

Koharu: Lai! You can't ask about things in the real world.

Leafa: It's okay, my brother knew how to assemble his computer out of the spare parts by his age of 6.

They both went totally surprised..

Lai and Koharu: Wow!

He jokingly adds in..

Lai: At 6, I was making macaroni into smiley face and I already feel proud of myself!

She giggles a bit..

Leafa: Haha! Very funny.

Lai: But still, he did what he could.. Anyway, we're here just to fill you in with what we've been through lately. Sorry for not telling you about this.

Leafa: Ahh..! Don't be! Actually, I have something to tell you both..

Lai and Koharu: Huh?

Leafa: It's just a few minutes ago, I noticed Nautilus isn't being "himself".

Koharu curiously asks.

Koharu: What?

Leafa: I can tell he's scheming onto something else.

Lai: Oh, is that so?

Koharu's eyes widened a bit. But despite just knowing it, Lai doesn't feel surprised for him at all that Leafa could tell from his reaction.

Leafa: You seem you just figured out something else. Care to talk about it?

Lai: He always being against me whenever our paths crosses.

Leafa: Really? I hope that's the only reason..

Lai: Excuse me?

Leafa: No! I mean I hope the reason is just that simple!

Koharu: It's okay! I was about to ask if Yuna is doing okay today.

Leafa: She is fine! But she's more active than usual today.

Koharu: Oh! Is that true? I'm glad then!

Lai: I guess that's it. We're heading to the Front Lines.

Leafa: I suggest you should head over to the Commander's office at the top floor first. Commander Heathcliff is planning to send a scout party to the Floor Boss, but needs your permission to do so.

Lai: What? Ugh..

Koharu: Are you okay?

He frozes there, then he kneads his forehead with his fingers as he struggles to understand Heathcliff's idea.

Lai: Is this some kind of joke? I got no connection with the KoB, so what are you talking about?

She retorts back as she's confused.

Leafa: Don't ask me! I'm also confused as well! Heathcliff said he should let the Strongest Player decides for the KoB's future. Maybe getting a look of the boss can give us an advantage?

He replies in a frustrated tone.

Lai: Now that's just great...

Koharu adds in, defending him.

Koharu: No way that he should be the one to make all the calls for KoB! He's just putting pressure on him!

He pats on Koharu's shoulder..

Lai: It's okay.. At least it's our chance to meet him.

Koharu: You sure about this?

Lai: If that's the way of him giving invitation, god help us.

Koharu: Me too...

He stands up, decides to go to the top floor.

Lai: We should go, Koharu.

Lai opens the door for Koharu to exit first before him.

Lai: Then, we're heading there now.

The Elf wishes them luck.

Leafa: Good luck, you two.

He gently closes the door, turns to his partner who is now leaning against the wall, telling him what's in her mind just now.

Koharu: I feel like I'm not ready yet...

He sighs a bit, pats on her shoulder.

Lai: And I already feel I don't want to be in this place anymore.. So let's just get this over with..

Koharu: Yeah..

The duo take the nearest elevator where it'll take them straight to the top floor. Koharu taps for the Eighth Floor and Lai presses the close button. As the door's about to close. Suddenly, a hand just interrupts the closing process and the door opens back, they both immediately recognize Godfree as they hear his friendly voice.

Godfree: Excuse me for a second!

She responds with her usual self. Lai greets him.

Koharu: It's okay!

Lai: Hey.

Then suddenly, Yuna joins in, her presence already become a good news for Koharu, but bad news for Lai as Nautilus joins in with his childhood friend as well, just as he expected. Lai mutters under his breath.

Lai: Ugh.. That's just great...

Koharu: (Lai! You better not make a fuss here!)

Godfree presses for seventh floor, the door finally closes and the elevator starts to ascend up to the destination. Despite the atmosphere is silent, Koharu could feel the strange hostility roaming around inside the elevator. The duo can feel a minute had passed already in the elevator. At the end, it reaches the destinated floor for Yuna, Nautilus and Godfree. They exit out from the elevator and it is now only Lai and Koharu who are staying inside. As the door close, they both let out a sigh of relief at the same time, like they both just escaped a lion's den.

Lai and Koharu: Phew...

Her giggles calms the atmosphere as she just notices they both just did a synced reaction. Lai curiously asks.

Lai: Why are you getting nervous for?

Koharu: Because I was expecting an argument here.

Lai: You know I ain't got time for that...

Koharu: Hehe.. Sure I do.

Timeskip...

After reaching the top floor and the duo arrived at the front of the office's door, Lai nods to Koharu who are worrying about him before knocking on the door while she is staying beside him. Both of them enter the office after getting a clear response from the KoB Commander, Heathcliff. The duo could notice all 4 commanders and Heathcliff are sitting there, awaiting for their arrival. Heathcliff starts the conversations.

Heathcliff: We all glad to see you two.. And you're not wearing your hood anymore. How nostalgic it is, just to see your face.

He replies in frustrated tone, despite his serious expression still in maintain on his looks.

Lai: Just cut to the point.. I heard you're about to send a scout party to the Labyrinth.

Heathcliff: Yes indeed, since you're heading back to the Front Lines. Maybe I should get a permission from you.

Koharu just senses something suspicious about what Heathcliff just said, but she remains silent with her serious look, left it unanswered.

Lai: You got any information about the Floor boss?

Heathcliff: Currently not.. But getting a look of the boss might give us the advantage.

Lai: How many players in the scout party?

Heathcliff: 20 of them, recruited from all different guilds.

He slowly walks to the window, looking at the view as he replies sarcastically.

Koharu: (Lai?)

Lai: So... Risking 20 players in there just to get a sight of it? Yeah, that's a pro gamer move right there. And the view's pretty breathtaking here by the way.

The other KoB Commanders are already pissed by his attitude except for Heathcliff who still remains to his rational mindset.

Heathcliff: Is that a compliment or are you teaching me a lesson?

Lai: Depends how you listen to it.

Heathcliff: So what will it be as your answer?

Lai takes a peek onto something else as he returns back in front of all the Commanders with Koharu before going straight to the point.

Lai: I suggested as a no. We'll be using the basic's ways, gather the information about the Floor Boss and we'll talk about that later. Just like how we did with the rest of the floors we all had come through.

Heathcliff: If that's your decision, I guess I can't argue with it.

Lai: We'll be heading to the Front Lines. I guess see you on the battlefield.

The Commander replies with a silent response.

Heathcliff: ...

The duo bows down before exiting the office. As soon as they both hear the closing door, Koharu immediately asks Lai about her recent finding.

Koharu: Lai, do you notice-?

Lai immediately nods to her question.

Lai: Yeah, I already do..

Koharu: I'm glad.. So what's our next move after getting back to the Front Lines?

Lai: We'll see.. But let's keep quiet about it for now.

Koharu: Okay..!

She replied to him with a small grin, but felt uncomfortable from carrying the secret with them that she can't afford to mess it up. But with their forged telepathic connection between them, Lai could always tell that she's troubled or worrying.. His hand reaches hers. She receives his warmth and smiles silently..

Koharu: Thanks.. I'm sure we can make it out to the end..

Lai: And it'll be over soon.. Let's go, Koharu.

This time, she responds happily.

Koharu: Okay!

The duo grabs the Teleport Crystals, using it to teleport away to Floor 75, Collinia.

Timeskip... Floor 75, Collinia..

After arrived to the bustling city, Koharu already planned out what are they going to do.

Koharu: C'mon, Lai! Let's check if we can get some info about the Floor boss from the side quests.

Lai: Sure! Man, I missed exploring with you. The nostalgia really hits hard.

She happily smiles back..

Koharu: Yeah! Me too! ^^

As they are about to ask around in the Town, they immediately meet up with Sanya and Sasha.

Sasha: Hey! Koharu! Lai!

Koharu: Sasha! Sanya! What are you two doing in the Front Lines?

Sanya: After last night, most of the kids were successfully managed to escape the game. So that means we'll have more time to strengthen our levels and gears, to catch up with the Assault Team.

Koharu: Will they be doing okay on their own? You sure they can take care of themselves?

Sasha: With that much lesser kids.. Those three will be taking care of the orphanage.

He got surprised..

Lai: Wait! Gin, Kain and Mina are still in the game!?

Sasha: I'm really sorry about that.. They insisted to stay with me and the other kids who encountered the error.

Lai: The kid's got affected as well!?

Koharu: How many of them?

Sasha: 12 of them got stuck.. 3 of them are boys and the other 9 are girls.

Lai: Damn it!

Koharu: That's horrible..!

Sanya: Indeed..

Lai: But what about you, Sanya? Didn't you made a promise with one of your friend?

Sanya: If you want to ask about "Why I didn't leave?". It's because I still have things that needs to be done.

Lai: Saving the rest of them?

Her face suddenly flushed in red.

Sanya: I-It's not like that! I haven't fully pay for Sasha's cooking.

Lai: Come on, we all know the reason.

Koharu: Still, thanks for staying with us!

Sanya: *pouts* I just can't leave Sasha, alright!?

The others already get her point.

Lai: Yeah, yeah.. We all get it..

Sasha: Thanks, Sanya!

Lai: So what you girls are up to right now? Mind filling us in with the details?

Sasha: We just accepted a quest from an Archaeologist NPC. He says there's something called "Scroll of the Past Warriors" located somewhere in the Labyrinth. And he might want to do something with it.

Lai: Let's head over there then.

Sanya: Right!

The girls went ahead of the duo.. Koharu tugs on Lai's hood to stop him for a while..

Lai: Hm?

Koharu: You think we should check on the others? I'm worried about them..

Lai: Sure.. But I hope we have enough time for that. So we should finish what we need to do in the Labyrinth as fast as we can.

Koharu: Getting map data, find the scroll and locate the boss room. Anything else?

Lai: I guess that's all.. Let's move..

Koharu: Okay!

Timeskip... Labyrinth..

Multiple mobs are defeated as the group venture deep into the Labyrinth. The environment is somewhat similar to Floor 1, dark and filled with hordes of monsters. Lai and Koharu both take the lead for Sanya and Sasha as they defeat incoming hostile mobs. He slashes a large group of Lvl 96 Skeleton Warriors with Disaster Storm in front of him, he backsteps away, switching with Koharu who is about to throw multiple Cluster Paper Bombs to the entire horde of gladiator orcs. Cleaning up the rest.

Sasha: They both are strong..

The woman notices the silver haired girl's body is itching.

Sasha: What's wrong?

Sanya: I can't get used to it from just letting them do their job. Even if I join the combat, they would interfere at any seconds.

Sasha: I see.. Maybe you should relax yourself and let them take care of everything. ^^

Sanya: No..

While Koharu managing the drop materials, Lai checks the crack of the wall, in case of any secrets. He whips out his Perforator, shoots a Spear through the crack, the projectile penetrates and creates a hole for them. Lai informs the others.

Lai: Guys! This way!

Koharu: Right! Let me drop all the unnecessary loot first! Wait for me!

She drops all the materials and joins with Lai, waiting for Sanya and Sasha.

Koharu: Come on!

Sanya: Right..

The girls join up with them before the group entering the room. Lai notices a treasure chest and rush to it immediately.

Lai: Nice, the scroll must be in there!

Koharu: Wait!!!

As soon as he opens the chest, a boulder drops from the ceiling and blocks the entrance where they just came in. The entire floor illuminates with red as the alarm goes off. Then, they all group up back to back when a large group of armored golems, Skeleton Warriors and invading the room to kill the players.

Lai: I forgot we're in Floor 75... Of course things isn't going to be easy.

Sanya: We're trapped! Finally for some actions!

She murmurs to herself.. But accidentally heard by Lai..

Koharu: Déjà vu...

Lai: You had been in this situation before?

She silents a bit, but still replies to him with her serious expression as she closes her eyes, trying to hide her grief as she just remembers the loss in Floor 27.

Koharu: It wasn't very good...

He senses her sadness about something else, immediately apologizes to her as he feels the guilt of triggering her past on accident.

Lai: I'm sorry..

She softly whispers to his ear as she feels she didn't get trapped by the mobs at all despite how worse the situation is. Trusting her partner with her very own life.

Koharu: Don't be.. Because my better half is here this time...

They both rush to the horde with their battle cry. Lai staggers a golem, pulls its whole arm off and golfed its head off, thrust the arm to another's torso and kicks away. He slashes one and another as he deals each hits. Koharu whips a dagger and her Custom Nailgun, calling out for Lai.

Koharu: Lai! Swing on my blade!

Lai: On it!

Lai swings his Dark General's Sword against Koharu's Nightkiss Dagger which she just wields out as well, both of their blade met and grind against each other. Powering both of their weapons by some of their weapon's stats applied to each other's. Koharu's dagger now illuminates with Yellow and the blade lengthens out into One-handed Sword, while Lai's Sword turns into Purple Saber. With that, each of Koharu's attacks are much powerful than before. She slices through the horde, while one-shot on those who tries to ambush her from her rear with her Nailgun. She hops to the Golem, jumps away from it to push it and headshot the Golem during her backflip. As soon as she lands, Koharu closes in to her target and cuts it in half. As for Lai, he cuts off the Skeleton's Skull part and shot it through another Golem. He attacks another from his rear with a roundhouse slash, he dashes forward and grabs the target entirely, slams it to the ground and stomps on its head to kill. He ducks down to dodge the incoming attack, then uppercuts it, tumbles the golems and crushes some of the Skeleton Warriors. He rips out one of the Skeleton's Jaw, stabs on its skull and kicks it away. Lai calls out for Koharu.

Lai: Koharu!

Koharu: Right!

As they join together back to back, both of their ranged weapons combined. With Koharu's Nailgun placing horizontally on top of Lai's Crossbow.

Lai and Koharu: Jackpot!

Both of their weapons illuminates in Yellow and Purple, releasing a powerful Shot Skill. Destroying a line of enemies who are brave or stupid enough to stand in their range. Then, they both dual wielding their way through the horde. With their High Damage, it is just one shot one kill for them. Meanwhile, Sanya just hack and slash through while protecting Sasha. As minutes passes, most of the mobs are destroyed, some of them are ripped apart, caused by Lai's brutalities. He just notices a mob is still breathing and about to jab his Crossbow's stock onto its Skull, but it got headshot by Koharu's Nailgun instead, thanks to the Custom Iron Sight. She replies in cold tone.

Koharu: I still got plenty of it.. So don't bother..

Lai: ...Did that make you feel better?

She sheathes both of her weapons.. Catching her breath as she turns back to her usual bubbly self.

Koharu: *nods* Yep, a lot! Thanks to you!

Lai loots the items from the chest, obtaining the "Scroll of the Past Warriors" in the process..

Lai: We got what we want. Let's get out of here.

Sanya: How? The exit's blo-!

He carries the boulder and throws it away. Shocked Sasha in result.

Sanya: Never mind..

Timeskip... Aincrad Standard Time, 3:10pm.. Floor 75, Collinia.

Sasha: I guess this is it..

The group submits the item to the Archaeologist NPC, triggering an event.

Archaeologist: The Scroll! This is the one! I can't believe you found it!

Sasha: I'm glad this is the correct one!

The NPC opens the scroll and read it.. It only took him a few seconds to finish reading. He fiddles his glasses.

Archaeologist: So, this is like a diary. A diary of the Past Warriors who tried to beat "The Reaper"..

Lai: Déjà vu...

Koharu: That was a long time ago..

Lai: Can't believe you still remember that..

Archaeologist: Some of the warriors attempted on defeating them but it was ultimately lost for them. They said it's a monstrosity with endless scythes.

Koharu: Endless Scythes.. Huh?

Lai: A Reaper with Endless Scythes... Could be the Fatal Scythe but weaker version?

Sanya: Still need more clue.. That's my answer..

Archaeologist: That's all from this scroll. Maybe there's more in the Labyrinth.

Sasha: Wait, there's more?

Archaeologist: Yes.. This is just one of the diary entries written by the Past Warriors. But I'll be offering well-deserved rewards to you every time you manage to find one of these around this place. Here's your reward for now.

The NPC gives out 700,000 exps and 2,500 cols. Sanya levels up a few from Lvl 78 to Lvl 79. Surprisingly, Sasha got leveled up a lot, from Lvl 34 to Lvl 59.

Sasha: Wow! That's a lot of Exp!

Lai: We're in Floor 75, which means the third quarter of 100 Floor. The quests here yield around at least 100k exp.

Sasha: That answers the question. Thanks for your help, guys!

The Silver-haired girl grins on her.

Sanya: Good for you, Sasha. ^^

Lai: The Assault Team welcome you anytime once you get stronger. For now, let's find more of them!

Koharu: Okay!

They all look for more around the city. Lai and Koharu decided to split up, searching for the rest of the entries. Thankfully, both of them already mastered the final environment skill tree, Full View. So every types of collectible icons are visible in their map data. Lai is able to find several of them through the waterway dungeon under the city while Koharu searches through alleys and rooftops for hidden items just half an hour.

Timeskip... Aincrad Standard Time, 3:45pm.

The duo return back to Sanya and Sasha who are waiting for them with the NPC. Submitting the remaining 49 scrolls to the NPC.

Archaeologist: Whoa! That was fast! You sure that's all of them?

Lai: Yes, these are all we could find around the city.

Archaeologist: Perfect! Now I can uncover the truth of the mythical creature behind the door!

Koharu: You mean the one with Endless Scythes?

Archaeologist: Yes! I've been studying about it but I don't have the guts to see it on my own, so I would try finding other clues like the Scrolls you just gave me. Here are the rest of the rewards for you all.

The NPC offers 34,300,000 exps and 122,500 cols in total. Eventually, the quest is now finished and unable to take anymore by other players. The amount of exp is enormously enough for Sanya levels up from Lvl 79 to Lvl 103. As for Sasha, she skips from Lvl 59 straight to Lvl 98. Koharu levels up from Lvl 230 to Lvl 231.

Archaeologist: I can tell you all about the creature. How much do you want know?

The duo answers back together.

Lai and Koharu: All of it! Huh!?

They both instantly feel the awkward as they just accidentally did a synced reply.

Lai: (Damn..)

The NPC replies them in default way.

Archaeologist: Okay! I'll offer you the details. Just give me a while..

He grabs a paper and a pen to list out the details. After a few minutes, he hands the paper to Koharu.

Archaeologist: I wrote down all of this creature's appearances and its behavior. Hope this will help on your journey.

Koharu: Thanks!

The quest icon above the NPC disappeared. Confirmed that the quest is over. Sanya immediately asks about their relationship.

Sanya: Just how close you two are?

She chuckles..

Koharu: Well, you could say very..

Lai: We should send the data to Leafa.

Koharu: Sure..

She opens her chat box, attached the data to the message before sending it to Leafa.

Koharu: Done!

Lai: So anything you girls need help with?

Sasha: I think that's all.. I should check back to the church and see how the kid's doing.

Koharu: What about you, Sanya?

Sanya: I'll be off as well.. Going to train a lot because of you two.

Koharu: Us?

Lai: Because we didn't let her handle the monsters at all.

Koharu: Oh sorry!

Sanya: *sigh* It's okay, first time getting carried by you two feels kinda weird.. Now I'm just itching for some actions.

Koharu: But still, sorry about that.

Sanya: Like I said, it's okay.. I'll be training myself more after visiting the church. What about you?

Koharu: Coincidentally, we're heading to Floor 1 and check on the Monument together.

Sasha: You should visit the kids before heading there.

Koharu: Sure!

The group teleport to Floor 1..

Timeskip... Aincrad Standard Time, 4:00pm. Floor 1, Merchant District.

The District was once filled with a few of civilians players is now become a ghost town despite the NPCs around are promoting their businesses while the group are the only players who are in the District.

Koharu: Hey, don't you feel... The town's getting even more.. deserted?

Sasha: Yeah..

Lai: Of course.. They're off to somewhere even safer now..

Koharu: ...I hope they are fine..

Lai: Hm? What do you mean?

Koharu: Two years of getting trapped in a death game probably left some people traumatized, right? I'm just really worried about them.. Also glad at the same time that they don't have to suffer with us anymore.

Sanya: You just can't stop worrying, Koharu..

Koharu: Huh?

She apologizes as she feels it offensive to Koharu..

Sanya: I apologise for saying it that way.. But as long as their lives are safe, you should already drop your worries.

Koharu: Yeah.. But.. I..

She stares at the clear blue skies, placing her palm on her heart. Wishing well for them..

Koharu: I just hope they can recover their lifestyle back to normal..

Her partner wishes with her, pats on her shoulder.. Reassuring her..

Lai: They will.. Koharu.. May their lives move forward without looking back.

He replies to Sanya..

Lai: I'm sorry, Sanya.. Koharu just wishes those who escaped from this game that things would go well for them in real life. It's actually a good thing for her to say that.

She replies in cold tone but with a small grin, still agree to what he said..

Sanya: Maybe I do agree to what you said.. I wish Nijika is doing okay in the real world.

He nods in agreement, feeling glad to hear it from her and stays silent for his partner to finish. Koharu takes a breath as she is feeling fresh. Thanking Sanya in cheerful way.

Koharu: It feels really great saying it out! Thanks, Sanya!

She got blushed by her thanks.. Denying it.

Sanya: W-What? I didn't say anything!

Koharu: But still.. You made me confessed it. So..

Sasha: Never thought I'd see that side of yours!

She stutters a lot as she feels very nervous.

Sanya: C-Can we head back to the church!? I missed Sasha's cooking already!

Koharu: Sure! Let's hurry back! ^^

The atmosphere in the group has become very cheerful after the conversations. They all continue their walk to the Church.

Timeskip... Orphanage Church..

Sasha knocks on door, a girl's voice can be heard from inside.

Mina: Coming!!

She pulls the handle down, then pushes the door to the side with both hands. She happily greets them as soon as she notices their arrival.

Mina: Sasha-san! Sanya-san! Koharu nee-san! Lai nii-san!

Sasha: Is everything alright here?

Mina: Yes! The kids are taking a nap! Gin and Kain went to buy some groceries in Floor 1. I told them not to go higher floor as well.

Sasha: Really? Thanks for taking care of the Orphanage! You three really grown up a lot!

Mina: Mhm! I always want to be capable like Koharu nee-san! ^^

She bows down and pets on Mina's head gently, happily responds to her.

Koharu: You're already doing great taking care the kids, Mina! I'm so proud of you! ^^

Mina: But I'm still not capable enough to catch up with the Assault Team..

Koharu: But it's too dangerous there! A lot of unexpected things can happen anytime. Sorry for saying this to you..

Mina: I'm sorry.. We were having so much fun that night, so we wanted to get stronger so I can join with you.

She grabs the kid's hand, reassuring her.

Koharu: We will.. Once this is over.. C'mon, let me cuddle you..

Mina: Okay!

She jumps into Koharu's embrace. She carries her in a bridal style as Mina snuggles her face into her shoulder. Lai mentions about the other two kids.

Lai: Where is Gin and Kain? Are they back yet?

Mina: Huh? No.. Not-

Gin: Guys! We're back!

Everyone turn around and look at the outside, seeing the other two kids are back just in time.

Sasha: Gin! Kain! I'm glad you're back!

Gin: Sorry for being late! Kain wanted to refine our equipments so we've been gathering some Hematites! Don't tell me you forgot that you told us to upgrade your dagger as well!

Mina: Ah! That's right! Sorry about that!

Kain: Nii-san!

The boys hop onto Lai's embrace, wanted him to carry the kids and letting them sit onto his shoulders. Koharu holds her laugh a bit as he looks at her with the face that screams "Help me", message to his partner. He jokingly adds while struggling to shrug his shoulders.

Lai: Well, these two would make a great Twin Cannons on my shoulders if I give them Automatic Crossbows.

Everyone burst out laughing to his joke as they imagine it. Liven up the atmosphere. Lai and Koharu both gently place the kids down.

Lai: We should go now, Koharu..

Koharu: Sure!

Sasha: You two are leaving?

Lai: We have something that needs to be checked.

Sasha: Oh.. I guess I'll see you two next time.. We'll be looking forward for your next visit.

Koharu: Thanks! We're leaving now.

Sanya: See you.

The duo wave back and leave the church after their visits. Both of them are now heading to the Black Iron Palace to check on the Monument.

Koharu: Ready to go?

Lai: Yeah, why not?

He grabs her hand tightly, unsure about how the player list would turn out to be like.

Lai: Let's go then..

She nods..

Koharu: Right..

They both walk back to the Central Plaza where the Teleport Gate is.

Timeskip... Black Iron Palace..

The palace was one of ALF's major territories, used to confine PKers, Orange Players and other criminals. Left deserted after Lai already wiped all of their existence out from this world. They both look at the Monument, filled with various flowers all around the stone. They both inspect the Player List, noticing that the name of the escaped players had just disappeared completely, leaving it blank.

Lai: Their names disappeared..

Koharu: It's like they don't even exist to this world anymore.

Lai: Yep.. That means they had logged off successfully..

She let out a sigh of relief..

Koharu: I can finally relieve... Now we know what happened to their names when they escaped from this world. And we can now confirm that they are really safe.

Lai: Better tell Kirito and Asuna if we get a chance. Let's count how many of them are still trapped in there.

Koharu: Okay.

Lai counts on the right side while Koharu starts with the left side until they reach to the middle. Lai was able to count all the remaining players on his side, waiting for Koharu to count her part. After a few seconds, she finishes counting her own.

Koharu: How many?

Lai: 278.. You?

Koharu: 247.. That's 525 in total!

Lai: Yeah..

Koharu: You think we can make it out with all of them?

Lai: 525 players vs 25 Floors.. But with our powers.. I'm sure we can.. Somehow..

Koharu: Let's hope for the best outcome, is that no one will die in this world. I'll do anything to protect everyone, especially is you, Lai..

Lai: Thanks, Koharu..

Koharu: Let's head back, Kirito and Asuna are probably still at home.

As she is about to exit the palace, Lai calls out to her.

Lai: Koharu?

She turns around..

Koharu: Hm?

He walks up to her slowly. Suddenly, he kneels down in front of Koharu, surprising her immediately as he is prepared to propose to her. Lai grabs her hand where the engagement ring is wearing on with. His forehead gently place on the back of her hand as he bows down.

Lai: All of our promises will soon be fulfilled... My life is yours from now on.

His word with utmost sincerity strikes straight to Koharu's heart. Causing her tears to swell unconsciously but happily smile to him, letting him to finish.

Koharu: Lai...

Lai: And my soul will always love you, Koharu...

She nods slightly as a reply to his proposal. Lai plants a kiss on her hand as a sign up to their love contract for what he just confessed. Her face flushes in red as she feels her happiness is about to burst. Lai apologizes about the first time that he proposed to her in Floor 22.

Lai: I know I had proposed to you once for the in-game Marriage in Floor 22. But this time, I want to do this in more proper and realistic way.

She helps him up and responds back cheerfully as she wipes off her tears. She hugs him tightly that they both could feel each other's heartbeat. Koharu cheers him up.

Koharu: It's okay..! I'm so happy.. Lai! I received a lot of your true feelings. And I can tell it's all real!

Lai: Koharu..

Both of their eyes just made a solid contact, staring at their pupils. Their face slowly move forward until their lips make a connect with each other. Both of them close their eyes as they swirl their tongues around each other's. Several minutes later, they break their kiss before taking a break, feeling each other's warm breath in their hugs. Koharu asks shyly..

Koharu: Shall we... Head back..?

Lai: Sure..

They both grab their Crystals. Teleport to Floor 22.

Timeskip... Log Cabin..

They both just returned back to their home. Lai opens the door after taking off their shoes.

Lai: We're home..

No one responds to his call. Koharu assumes that they are probably away for something else. They both enter the living room.

Koharu: Perhaps they're out for some quests?

Lai: Most likely, yes..

She notices a letter placed on the dining table. Koharu opens it and read the content.

Hey Koharu, Lai!

If you're reading this, Kirito and I just went visiting Lisbeth's Smith Shop with Klein and Nishida to buy some Fishing Rods, it was my suggestion actually. We also will buy two more for you guys so we all can go fishing tomorrow. And in case if you don't know who is Nishida. He's a player who lives in the same floor as us, also a fishing expert as well! Anyway, we'll be back soon.

Koharu: Seems like they headed out not too long ago..

Lai: We should take a shower first.. La-

Koharu: W-We!?

Lai got shocked a bit by her reaction but calmly replies back in casual.

Lai: Huh? I haven't finished yet.. Ladies first..

Koharu: O-Oh.. Okay..!

She takes her towel and her pajamas before entering the bathroom alone. In the meantime, Lai places his Crossbow on the table as a model for observation and a blueprint of it, taking his time on developing his suggested upgrades for the Automatic Crossbow, brainstorming about modification ideas he could think of.. He struggles on thinking about something else, a mod that is very essential for him but forgotten..

Lai: What was it that I missed?

Meanwhile... Koharu fills up the bathtub with clear water. After that, she decides to add with Asuna's rare herb that grants 3 hours of poison immunity buff if taken. It also has the buff to make the bath feel like a Hot Spring. She recalls back what Asuna said.

Koharu: If I remember correctly, just adding a herb in the bathtub should do the trick.

She opens the cabinet, fortunately is that Asuna has list out the names under of every glass bottles so the others can recognize it. She grabs the glass bottle of Asuna's rare herbs. But unfortunately, she just notices that only one herb is still left in the bottle. The amount of it is enough to make the bath to be the last Hot Spring for her. She reconsiders it for a while..

Koharu: The herb isn't enough for Lai.. But I was looking forward for a hot spring..

As the idea of letting her partner joining in flashes through her mind, her whole face illuminates in hot red as she flushes.

Koharu: (No way! It's too embarrassing!) ><"

Her embarrassment left her body frozed, unable to choose the decisions or coming up with any better ideas for both of them. Koharu couldn't help but to slowly lean toward the idea of letting her partner joining in as she felt it'll be fair if both of them get to experience the Hot Spring. She tries to convince herself.

Koharu: It's Lai, right..? He won't think me as a pervert if I explain it to him..

She takes a deep breath before opening the door, calling out for her partner.

Koharu: Uhm..! Lai? Lai!

On Lai's POV, his train of thoughts suddenly got interrupted by Koharu's voice. He cursed in his mind.

Lai: (Damn it!) Ah! Koharu? What's wrong?

She replies back while standing at the door side.

Koharu: Can you come over here? And promise me don't look at my body!

Lai: No..! I can't! I'm in a brainstorm process about something else! You should go on first!

She pouts quietly as she just failed her first attempt. Then, she tries to convince him in her second attempt.

Koharu: But there's only one herb left! It'll be just enough if we share the bath together!

He casually rejects her invitation.

Lai: Still no! And you do know I can get another fresh batch of those right now if you want to!

She pouts cutely as she feels a bit frustrated.

Koharu: Mhm..!

She feels a bit upset that she couldn't persuade him at all. Then, she feels guilty about not opening herself to him so she decides to pull out her last resort. She wrapped herself in bath towel and rushes out from the bathroom. Lai could hear a footstep.

Lai: Huh?

Before he can stand and turn around, Koharu hugs him from behind. Surprising Lai completely that he almost jumps away but got confined in her embrace. Her head rest on top of his while her chest is pressing toward his back shoulder.

Lai: Koharu!?

Koharu: I'm sorry for not letting you join in! I shouldn't freak out like that when you were trying to ask!

Lai just got dumbfolded by her reasons. Unable to answer or turn around.

Lai: (What just happened!?)

Then, he could feel something soft are brushing against his back shoulder, causing him to blush. Soon, he realizes about her intentions. Finally accepts her invitation as he looks away.

Lai: S-Sure... K-Koharu...

She got excited as soon as she hears it.

Koharu: Really!?

Lai: I don't really mind if I'm with you...

She hugs him even tighter as she feels relieved and happy.

Koharu: Thank you, Lai!

She breaks the hug, waiting Lai to get himself a bath towel and his pajamas before they both enter the bathroom this time.

Timeskip...

Koharu, who is still clothed in her bath towel, adds the herb into the water filled bathtub while Lai is undressing himself. He could feel his nervous racking up already and also very aware that it will mess their moment up horribly if left uncontrolled, so he suppresses it as much as he can, especially for his very first time bathing with a cute, lovely girl like Koharu. Both of their faces flush a lot before they could even dip themselves into the bathtub. Lai breaks the silence, nervously suggests that Koharu should dip in before him.

Lai: You should go in first..

She insists.

Koharu: Why not together...?

Lai: I expected a fist flying at my face if I do that.

She pouts to his misunderstanding..

Koharu: Don't say that..! You know I won't..

Lai: Then, here goes.. The herb is in effect now.

As the herb starts its effect, Koharu releases her bath towel and they both dip themselves into the bathtub. After a few seconds, the temperature of the bath gradually start rising up, steam become visible for them and became a Hot Spring for them just like Asuna said. The couple are now sitting in front of them, facing each other. Koharu covers her breasts and her private part as she still feels embarrassed a bit while Lai tries his best not to look at her body. But ultimately, the warmth of the Hot Spring managed to calm their nerves and let loose of their nervousness. They both let out a pleasant sigh as they feel relaxed.

Lai and Koharu: Ahh~

Her arms slowly loosens up from covering, starting to enjoy the Hot Spring.. Lai gradually turns back, looking at his partner who feels relaxed as much as he does. Koharu admits her experience about the Hot Spring to him.

Koharu: The Hot Spring is magical, don't you think?

Lai: Yeah.. I feel we're in heaven.

She giggles a bit, softens up the atmosphere.

Koharu: Hehe... Especially this is the first time we've bathed together... And I really love how you included me with you.. Lai..

Lai: Of course.. I wouldn't be able to fully enjoy the Hot Spring without you. That's why they have private bath in Japan.

Koharu: Yeah... I agree..

All of their troubles had been wiped away from their as they close their eyes and sink themselves a bit deeper. After a couple of minutes, Koharu decides to confess as she feels ready for it.

Koharu: I think this is the best time to say it...

Lai: Huh?

She suddenly stands up, exposing her slender body that radiates her purity in front of his very eyes. Surprisingly, he doesn't feel nervous towards her anymore as his eyes run a view on her body, neither for her to be nervous as well when her body being clearly stared by her partner.

Lai: Koharu..

Koharu: I always wanted to open myself to you.. But I just can't help but feel embarrassed.

She slowly sits onto his lap, relaxing herself while leaning against him. He could feel a bit more warmer from Koharu.

Koharu: But right now, I think it's fine because now we can show all of our selves to each other. And I want you to see more of me..

Lai: Yeah.. Me too..

They both start to feel even warmer as they got even closer. Koharu intimately whispers to him.

Koharu: Lai.. Hold me.. Let's warm our hearts.

Both of his arms gently wraps around her body, cuddling her from behind so she could feel their warmth being transferred to their hearts. She also could feel something hard is rubbing her below.

Koharu: Lai? Something's rubbing me..

He snaps out of it and responds to her in his clear conscious.

Lai: Eh!? I'm sorry..! I can't help myself!

Koharu: Did I hurt you?

Lai: No.. We both are naked together, remember?

Koharu: No wonder.. I have zero experience with this at all.

Lai: Me too..

Despite of having zero experience, she insists on trying it.

Koharu: But I could at least try.. Mind.. If you show it to me?

Lai: ...

His nervousness starts racking back up to its peak again after just hearing her question. But for Koharu, Lai got very surprised that she isn't nervous at all and boldly showing her naked body in front of him. She smiles at his blushes, making him to gulp his saliva.

Koharu: Now's your chance to open yourself to me..

Lai: Tell me if you feel unease about me..

Koharu: I won't.. Because I'm okay with you.. So don't be afraid.

He finally stands up.. Something rock hard is twitching on his crotch that shocks Koharu.

Koharu: It's.. It's getting bigger!

Lai: It's normal for a boy when reacting to the girl that he loves. Do you hate it?

Koharu: N-No! I'm okay! ^^ Just feel a bit nervous.

She watches it twitching up, its appearances tempts her to touch it somehow.

Koharu: Can I touch it? See if I can help with it.

Lai: S-Sure..

Her hand slowly pokes its tip, check to see if it's hurt by its reaction. It twitches as a response to her. Then, she starts caressing it gently. Causing Lai to hold his voice.

Lai: Ugh..

Koharu: Did I hurt you?

Lai: No.. Your hand feels soft..

She chuckles to his compliment..

Koharu: Really? Thanks.. I'll do my best..

She slowly starts stroking it as he is feeling it, Lai holds his voice as it reacts to her actions with each twitches. Suddenly, she feels something slimy on her hand.

Koharu: Wha- What is this?

Her curiosity got her completely, she examines what it actually is by smelling it first.

Koharu: Smells weird... And it feels warm.. How do you feel, Lai?

Lai: It feels great actually..

Koharu: Seems like you're feeling it on the tip, maybe that's the place?

Lai: Yeah I guess..

She leans her face even closer to his crotch as she is addicted by its scent.

Koharu: (It doesn't smell too good. But..)

Heart shapes start appearing in both of her eye pupils. Tempting her even more.

Koharu: (I think I like this smell, Lai's thing is tempting me so much.)

Suddenly, her lips unconsciously start kissing on the tip, licking it with her tongue. Causing Lai to moan uncontrollably as he didn't expected that from her at all.

Lai: Koharu!?

Koharu: I'm sorry..! Your thing is tempting me..! And I'm somehow feel genuinely happy!

She starts going deeper, covering half of it with her mouth.

Koharu: (Fuah.. It's delicious.. ❤️)

Her tongue swirls around the tip, licking it even more to fulfill her desire. She could feel the pulse inside her mouth.

Koharu: (I want to lick it more.. I'm sorry, Lai! ❤️)

She gets excited by each of its pulses, to the point that she's feeling something is dripping down from her below. She starts to feel scared as she could tell she had lost control over her body.

Koharu: L-Lai!

Lai: Huh?

She releases her mouth from it, pleads Lai for his help in her uncontrollably cute breath.

Koharu: Lai.. Please help me.. My body is feeling weird right now..

Lai: Hang on!

He holds her close to him, gently carries her to sit on the side of the bathtub. He notices her face is blushing, breathing heavily that he could see the steam coming out from her mouth.

Lai: Where?

She looks away while her leg spreads apart, finally revealing her crotch to him. Lai immediately notices a puddle of liquids left below her private part already. He examines her further, trying his best not to hurt Koharu in accident. His breath gently blows on her private part, enough to make her sensitive already.

Koharu: Mhm!

Lai: Did it hurt?

She shakes her head.

Koharu: N-No..!

Both of his thumbs gently spreads her sexy pink labia, examines it even closer. Koharu hides her face as she feels very happy but embarrassed at the same time.

Lai: How do you feel?

Koharu: I feel hot.. Your touches are really warm..

He gently pokes at the pleasure center of her vulva. Causing her to moan.

Koharu: Ahh~! ❤️

He starts to rub it gently around with his thumb, both of his index and his middle fingers also rubs around her labia in circle. Koharu moans even more uncontrollably as she's feeling a lot of pleasure.

Koharu: No! I feel.. Really weird!

She leans forward, hugging him while breathing heavily as his fingers are still rubbing her down there gently. Lai could feel his hand already soaking wet by her liquid so he stops for her response.

Lai: You're soaking wet down there..

Koharu: Keep doing it.. Lai.. I'm sorry.. If I'm being forceful on you..

Lai: I'll take care of you.. Don't worry.. Koharu..

Koharu: I'm relieved.. Mhm!!

She feels something long just entered through her opening suddenly, slowly inserting deeper inside of her. Lai slowly moves his middle finger in and out gently, he can tell that she's enjoying it as well. Despite Koharu moans out uncontrollably, her hand strokes onto his rod as she couldn't leave him unsatisfied. Then, Koharu kisses him on the lips to silence their moans, both are enjoying the pleasure from anywhere and everywhere around their body. After several minutes of pleasure building, they finally release themselves from their intimate sessions. Koharu feels her body had loosened up a bit, lying down on the floor, preparing to accept him so she moves both of her legs apart and spreads her labia with both of her hands, liquid still dripping out like a river from the opening. She closes her eyes, feeling embarrassed and blushing a lot more in the process.

Koharu: I think this is how they do it?

Lai: ...Maybe.. It's awkward to say that...

Koharu: It's okay... Our bodies are about to connect each other like this.

He slowly sets himself in comfortable position, ready to insert it inside Koharu.

Lai: Tell me if you're hurt and look at me..

The girl slowly looks at him who is on top of her, seeing his face already made her feel relaxed and loosened herself, despite her heart being pounding like crazy.

Koharu: I will.. My heart is pounding so hard..

He rubs it on her labia gently, teasing her before inserting it to the opening. As his thing starts to enter, it surprisingly slides in thanks to the liquid her labia produced, causing her to moan louder than before, Lai could feel he's been squeezed in by her wall and stops the penetration. As she calms down a bit, Lai slowly pushes it in more until they could feel something just popped inside Koharu. She suddenly holds it in while covering her mouth.

Lai: Is this..!? Did I hurt you!?

Koharu: I'm fine! I feel your thing is poking me so deep! *Sob*

Lai: But you're crying...

She just notices her tears suddenly flows out through her cheek. She immediately explains it to him so he won't misunderstand it.

Koharu: These are my tears of joy.. Lai.. I'm so happy that I gave my first to you..! I guess this is what they called "cherry" if I'm right..

Lai: Yes.. And I'm really happy that I get to be your first!

After confessions, Lai takes the lead of doing the moving. The impact causes a lot of squeaking noises as Koharu starts letting out a lot of her cute moan while calling her partner's name out.

Koharu: Ahh!! Lai!! I love you!!

Lai: I love you too, Koharu!

Her body rotates over 180 degrees, her hands are now placing on the wall as he keeps on moving. Her breasts starts swinging a bit and she could feel him getting even deeper than before.

Koharu: I feel it's getting deeper!

His hands start fondling on her breasts. Koharu curiously asks him if he's enjoying it.

Koharu: Are these okay for you?

Lai: Of course..! You look cute with these!

She let out a pleasant smile..

Koharu: I'm glad! Even though I knew you would say this!

He starts speeding up the pace as he could feel he is about to reach the climax. Koharu also feels the same way as she stutters after calling his name out.

Koharu: Lai! I...!

Lai: I'm about to..!

Koharu: Don't worry! Let it out inside of me! I want to feel your warmth inside me!

Lai: Koharu!

A very warm liquid has been released inside of Koharu. Both are panting to catch their breath. She turns around, hugs him close to her with her arms and her legs locks her partner to her so he can't get away, while his warmth start feeling up her whole body.. The couple offers their kisses to each other. Enjoying their moment.

Koharu: Ngh! ❤️

Lai: Mhm~! ❤️

After a few minutes of locking, they both finally got released from their long hug, Koharu feels almost worn out after their private sessions. Lai carries her as he still has a lot of stamina.

Lai: Come on, I'll get you clean up before getting you to the bed.

Then, he could hear her whispering intimately..

Koharu: ...Thank you, Lai..

Although her body couldn't move, Koharu still clearly awake in her conscious. Watching him washing all the sweat off in every nook and cranny of her body and passionately massage her back with his towel.

Koharu: I'm sorry that you have to do all of this, my legs feel like jelly..

Lai: We might start doing a lot like this from now on. So I should get used to it.

She nods slightly as she agrees to his point.

Koharu: Good point..

She grabs his hand and smiles to him..

Koharu: If you really enjoyed it a lot. I'm already glad, I feel we're getting even closer in this way. ^^

She feels her breasts being gently rubbed by his warm hands as he cleans her front chest, especially the pit between it. She compliments his massage.

Koharu: You know.. With that great massage service of yours, you can get a job easily in the Sento as Sansuke!

Lai: Unfortunately, I ain't that selfless as you do so I only offer it if it's you..

Koharu: Hehe.. I'm so happy..

Timeskip...

After they both finished washing themselves, Lai wipes off the bathwater all around Koharu's body and her hair first before she can wear her pajamas. Koharu wraps her towel on her hair to speed up the drying. Lai dresses himself up with his pajamas and carries her out from the bathroom after opening the door. He could hear a small footstep noise around them as he gets out while holding her. He walks through the dining room and reaches their bedroom. He slowly adjusts himself to turn the doorknob on to avoid bumping anything else. He sets her body on the bed gently.

Koharu: What time is it now?

Lai: It's 6:00pm right now.. I'll check if they are back..

Koharu: Okay..

The boy exits out the bedroom while the girl stays resting on the bed, smiling happily what they had progressed today. As he slowly closes the door, he exposes them out immediately.

Lai: I know you two are here..

The other couple reveal themselves. Smiling cheekily. He shuts them up immediately.

Lai: Ugh.. Not a goddamn word, you two..

Kirito and Asuna: Hehe...

Timeskip... Aincrad Standard Time, 7:00pm..

After Koharu had rest enough and finally got out from the room, the four of them are now having their dinner, with two medium bowls of miso soup, a plate of grilled eel arranged in a row and a medium sized bowl filled with tempura on the table, both having rice for tonight. Asuna start to discuss about their fishing plan tomorrow.

Asuna: I supposed you had read the letter, Lai?

Lai: Koharu did, actually.. Thanks for buying two more for us. But.. How did you meet Nishida?

Asuna: Kirito just had a fishing with him at the dock yesterday.. Do you two know him?

Koharu: No.. First time hearing his name.. But you know Lai has trust issues.

Asuna: Don't worry. He's genuinely a good folk, right Kirito?

Kirito: Well, it depends on his decision so I can't help..

He takes a bite of the tempura.

Lai: It better be.. So Klein's going with us?

Asuna: Mhm! And Lisbeth will be joining us as well!

Koharu excitedly replies..

Koharu: I'm looking forward to it!

Lai: Yep.. But everything will be very quiet tomorrow.

Kirito: Oh yeah, how many of us are still in here?

Lai: 525 players.. Some of us refused to leave so I can't confirm how many of them actually encounter the error. I don't even know if this Nishida is stuck or just want to stay here and help the other players.

Kirito: We'll see in tomorrow..

The topic about the error left the group in silence as the boys starts to brainstorm about the error case. Lai leans his head against his palm and close his eyes. The girls interrupt them to avoid losing their appetite.

Koharu: Maybe we should talk about this in tomorrow. Let's not lose our appetite, okay?

Kirito: Oh.. Sure... Dinner comes first..

Lai: Yeah.. Sorry..

The group eventually finish their meal, both couple rest a bit before having their time together in their room. Koharu lies back on the bed before Lai, relaxing herself.

Koharu: Ahh~ What a day... I feel so carefree after what we have progress so far! ^^

He lies down on the bed beside her after shutting off the lights hanging on the wall.

Lai: Yeah.. I feel I'm out of my worries for now.

She turns around, facing to her partner.

Koharu: Sorry that I interrupted your thoughts in the evening..

Lai: Don't be.. I might regret that even more if I didn't come with you.

Koharu: Yeah.. I'm glad I mustered up my courage and managed to invite you in the end.

Lai: All thanks to you.. Koharu..

Koharu: We really are in heaven, aren't we? Come to think of that, I'm sure you're already mature enough to me.

Lai: I guess you can say that again.. And I think you're strong enough to handle what the world's gonna throw at us.

After a while of resting, she tugs on his shirt..

Koharu: Come here.. Lai.. ❤️

She brings him close enough for a kiss.. Enjoying the rest of their night sleeping together..

End of Chapter...