"Lai!! Lai!!!"

I watch that scene repeat itself again and again in my sleep every time, every night.. The scene that a man, an unknown person pierces through Lai and lifts him hanging on his blade. Waiting for the Heaven to unleash the judgement on him. At first, I was yelling out as loud as I could to make him stop. But now, I went silent, helplessly watch him fall in my very own eyes. I forcefully closed my eyes to let it end.

Year 2025, January 13th.. Japan Standard Time, 7:15am.. In a bedroom in Honda Residence, located in Sakura, north side of Chiba.

Koharu's POV

I spring up from my bed as soon as I snapped out from my usual nightmare. My heart is still pounding rapidly from it. Then, I fall back to the bed, feeling very sleepy as my mind and my body refuse to get up. I stare up to the ceiling before going through another day of the real world.

My name is Koharu.. Koharu Honda.. A 16 years old girl with a traumatic past, I can tell I'm still haven't gotten over the death of the one I once loved the most.. That nightmare haunts me ever since I finally returned my home. But I'm sure that cheerful, kind, thoughtful and caring side of mine is still there within me, somewhere... Maybe it's best to be concealed for a while.. I force myself to get up, feeling myself sloppy until I head to the bathroom for a wash on my face. My room is on the second floor, with the interior design and layout are probably the same as my other former classmate's during my Second-Year High School. A simple white wall with Air Conditioner, a single pink bed placed at the corner, with several plushies on the bed as well. Next to it is a bedside table with LED Bonsai Tree Lamp, a table with a laptop, a few pens in the cup, right next to the window with translucent white curtain, also there's a wardrobe filled with casual clothes of mine, placed right next to the bathroom's door.

I look at myself through the window, trying to regain my usual smile, I somehow feel myself a lot more mature than the previous me in two years ago.. I guess all the adventures and experience I had, made me a lot stronger and more independent in any aspect of my life. Except this fragile feeling of mine.

Then, a scene of her killing KoB Member flashes through her mind. Her body recoils a bit by the scene but she recovers herself immediately by snapping herself out from her thoughts.

Koharu: It's been months since I had returned back to the real world. I guess I still need a lot of time to recover myself from the nightmare.

I quickly grab a set of casual clothes before going back to the bathroom. Taking a quick shower, combing my long, straight, black-hair with a side bangs at the front before heading downstairs. I could notice a set of breakfast on the dining table in an instant as I walk downstairs. Then, I saw my mother just walk out with two poached eggs in a pan. Carefully placing the eggs on top of the bread. I greet at her with my usual smile.

Koharu: Good morning, Mother!

She looks at me and responses back quickly.

Haruna: Ah! Good Morning, Koharu! I just made some of your favorites as today's breakfast.

I look at my mother.. Surprised that her beauty and her youth still hasn't changed yet even after two years...

Her name is Haruna.. Haruna Honda.. A 36 years old, beautiful grey haired woman with a loving and caring personality. She's my biological mother and she's my only and closest kin to me in this family. She formerly works as a Part-time Florist when she was still in High School. She still works as a Piano Teacher in her own Tuition Centre in Tokyo in this day. Now she prioritizes herself on taking care of me...

Haruna softly calls out to her daughter, who is lost in her thoughts.

Haruna: Dear? Are you okay?

I respond back immediately.

Koharu: Ah..! I'm fine..

She closes her eyes, already knew that her daughter's mind still hasn't calm down yet.

Haruna: I know your mind hasn't clear off from all the thoughts yet.

Her daughter responds in stutter, adds with an apology.

Koharu: ...Yeah.. I'm sorry..

Haruna: It's okay.. Time will heal up your wounds naturally. And I'll speed it up for you as long as you're under my care, Koharu.

Koharu: Thanks..!

They both sit down, both of their palms combined while praying before having their meal.

Koharu and Haruna: Itadakimasu!

Timeskip...

Koharu's POV

Our lives have been going smooth in these past few months.. I was able to smile like usual as my mother spends as much time as she can with me. After breakfast, we chat a bit in casual while washing the dishes together.

Haruna: Koharu?

Koharu: Yes, Mother?

Haruna curiously stares at my long hair as she didn't get used to my new appearance. (Author's note: Mess with her and she will kill you.)

Haruna: About your hair, is it okay to leave it like this?

Her question made me smile a bit.. I respond happily and optimistically.

Koharu: I remember one of my birthday wishes is to have a beautiful long hair as yours. I think that might just come true!

She smiles serenely..

Haruna: I'm glad it did. You look absolutely lovely with long hair!

She blushes a bit by her Mother's compliment..

Koharu: Ehh!? You're flattering me.. ><"

She adds another one as she just notices her daughter's blush that makes her even cuter.

Haruna: You look even cute as well! ^^

Koharu: P-Please stop it!!

Haruna: That reminds me of buying some groceries..

Without hesitation, I ask her for permission to help her out.

Koharu: I'll do it!

Haruna: Huh? Will you be okay?

Koharu: I haven't gone outside for a while. Maybe it's better for me to take some fresh air and see what's new.

Haruna: Hm.. That might be good..

Timeskip... Japan Standard Time, 8:00am..

Koharu's POV

Once I got my handphone, my wallet, an umbrella and everything prepared. I walked up to the porch, grabbing a pair of my shoes as I still remember the shoes I always wear with. As I gently tuck my foot inside the shoe, I just notice my foot feels the tightness, realized that the shoes are now become unwearable for me..

Koharu: ...

I sigh out a bit as I couldn't get to wear my shoes anymore before asking my Mother for borrowing her shoes.

Koharu: Mother! Can I wear your shoes just for this day?

She replies back while hanging up the clothes outside without hesitation.

Haruna: Sure! Be careful out there!

Koharu: Okay!

I casually pick and wear a sport shoes of my Mother's before heading out to the General Store.

Timeskip... Sakura's Street..

I stare at my own hand, no idea how much I've grown by just two years. I look around the neighborhood, noticing some of the houses were modernized and renovated. I sigh with a bit depressed how far behind I am..

Koharu: *Sigh* I'm sure I'm lagging way behind from everything.. Especially my study...

I walked alone, enjoying the nostalgia view that I had missed for a long time.. I still remember my friends.. Kirito, Asuna and the others, yet I don't know where to find them.. I shake my head to focus on myself as I see no point thinking about the others if I couldn't even meet them at all before I continue my way to the General Store.

Koharu: I hope they're all doing okay with their lives... That's the wish I would have for them. As for him...

The image of him beaming at me with his smile flashes through my mind.. Somehow, my feelings is still attached to him.. Even though he isn't in this world anymore. I can tell I won't get another one and ended up staying single for the rest of my entire life.. Even though I wish to be independent.. I sure do hate being lonely..

Timeskip... General Store...

I could already noticed a long queue at the cashier before I even enter, I don't really mind of it at first. I grabbed a basket and immediately follow the notes of the required items specified with the brand name and the amount listed by my Mother.. I run a check on every section, getting the items she needed. It only took a couple of minutes to finish gathering before heading to the cashier. I notice the long queue hasn't disperse yet and in front of the cashier is an old woman who is struggling to find a suitable yen amount among the other yens in her purse. Causing delay on the others and the queue. I could tell the others are already impatient. Without any second thoughts, I decided to help her on paying out the remaining amount of her bill with my saving.

Koharu: How much does she still need?

Cashier: Only 82 yen, Miss!

I open my wallet, only take me a few seconds to find the right amount of it. I placed it on the counter.

Koharu: Here!

After I smile at the cashier, I felt a strong force just push me away, but I kept my balance on the ground, only just a few steps. The force was from the two men with crooked face.

Men 1: Hey! Don't try to cut in!

Their behavior irritates me inside.. But I kept in, try not to cause trouble.

Koharu: ...

Then suddenly, another men grabs my hand.

Koharu: !!

Men 2: Oi! Oi! We need an apology right now!

But my quick reflexes kick in and thrusts his eye with my umbrella, it did not stab in because of the blunt tip of the umbrella. The hit repels him away and covers his eye to hold the pain, another men try to attack me.

Men 1: You!

*Tush!*

I duck down and brutally thrust on his stomach, causing him to cough out saliva. I headbutt him away as he is all over me. Then, I pull one of his leg with the hook of the umbrella to cause him fall down with his head hitting on the ground, groans out painfully. I switch my target and shot a thrust on his crotch, deliver a pain to cause him to bend down his body. Then, I smash his head straight down to the ground with my umbrella in full force. Causing the umbrella to bend a bit. I grab my umbrella again and thrust their head repeatedly, until I knock them out of their consciousness and left a huge bruises on their head, I could even see a stream of blood from their heads. After finishing, I noticed everyone is watching me. I didn't really care about the attention I just got except getting out of the trouble that happens just now. I returned back to the queue like nothing ever happened.

(Opening Song: Liar Mask - Rika Mayama. Author's note: Imagine it with this video.)

The old disk starts playing out the song..

Kuchi hateru you ni moyuru tsuki, Akatsuki ni shizumi yuku

(As the song starts, the scene shows the Aincrad is crumbling down to bits and bombs the land. Then it shows up the title "Sword Art Online".)

Tsukurareta kao de sotto chikadzuite Shinjiru mono wo yami ni otosu

(The Fallen Castle, which was a floating steel castle is now destroyed by them. The scene now changed to the a land full of Fairies. As the Army of Salamanders marching throughout the land while other races kneel down to them.)

Ito ni karamaru emono no you ni Tada hitasura ni sora wo aogu

(The scene now shows the main protagonist, Koharu who is in her room, innocently sitting on the bed and staring at the sky through the window while hugging tightly onto her animal plushie as she starts to worry, then the scene quickly switches to her unleashing her dark side. Then another main protagonist, Lai, who is standing behind a set of guns showcasing out while cleaning off the dust from the Glock 17, before loading in with a 9mm Parabellum Magazine, releases the slide and locks the bolt back.)

Kurikaesareru higeki bukimi ni warau ura no kao
Kore ijou nani hitotsu

(The scene is filled with newspapers titled with the mysteries of the 298 kidnapped victims after SAO incident. Then, it shows a man called Sugou Nobuyuki and behind him is a pile of female corpses that got unfortunately perished by his dark desire. The man tosses over two Poker Cards, one is with Lai's picture in a Spade King Card, another is Koharu's in Spade Queen Card to his partner, who is a cold-blooded chairman, sitting on his throne with thousands of Yakuza standing in front of him, attached with the logo of a Python snake, represent their cruelty and the desire to devour the entire Japan.)

Nakusanai you ni katana wo nuku

(The scene now shows them holding Crystal Magazine and their emptied Magic-Tech Rifle in-game, switching to the real life which they are now loading up their Heckler & Koch G36, Long Barrel Assault Rifle, ready to fight in Real Life and in Virtual Reality against large amount of enemies.)

Yami ni houmure yogoreta egao. Yariba no nai ikari, hanate!

(Lai headshots a Yakuza's head who is blocking the screen, then switch to Koharu who just cuts off someone's arm and shoots a few rounds of .45 ACP on his stomach then on the head with her FNX 45, bursting his brains out. Then the next scene is them in the airborne in Virtual Reality, Lai pulls out a Salamanders's wing and snaps his neck. Koharu shoots several Magic Projectiles from her Rifle, blasting another Salamander's body apart. Koharu slams her heel drop on someone before stabbing through another one's windpipe and blows his head apart with her Side-by-side, Custom Double Barrel Shotgun.)

Doredake no chi to namida wo nagashitara!

(In First Person's View, Lai inserts a Magazine to his M16A4 and then Koharu just chugs the fully charged Mana Crystal to the rifle. Then, back to Lai who just slaps the bolt release button before shooting down several incoming Yakuzas and the scene switch to Koharu who just uppercut melees with the weapon's stock.)

Inoru you ni kiri saite

(They both are strafing on the right side while taking fire from the enemies. As Koharu couldn't stop thinking about Haruna, who is in deep slumber, caused by a tragedy accident. The scene shows a statue of a god. Representing the god of humanity watches the duo murder their way to save the mankind from the pure and absolute evil.)

Kyou mo akaku someage yo!

(The scene shows Lai who starts wielding two Drum Mag AA12 as he mows down the Yakuzas to pieces while yelling out in berserk. As the drum hits, the scene shows the "Sword" before changing the screen to Koharu who just cuts someone's throat off and stabs on the neck. The scene changes by another drum hits to a word shows "Art" before showing Lai is wielding an Energy Chaingun, decapitating the Salamanders group. Lastly, it shows title "Sword Art Online" shaking violently with some bloods stains on the screen while the guitar plays through the session. As the drum hits again, the scene switches to Koharu who stabs the heart of a Yakuza to death in her silent kill, while Lai guns down any Yakuzas who are in his sights with his Franchi SPAS-12 Shotgun. Suddenly, an Attack Helicopter mounted with Missiles Launcher surfaces up the screen and fires several missiles on them. They both noticed immediately and Lai quickly grabs an AK-47 with the GP-25 Grenade Launcher before exchanging fire to the Helicopter with a grenade.)

End of Opening...

Timeskip... Japan Standard Time, 9:00am.. In Honda Residence..

I just got back with the groceries my mother requested.

Koharu: ...I'm home!

Haruna: Welcome back, Koharu!

My mother immediately checks on me as soon as I got back. I could tell she is worrying for me even though she puts up with her usual smile. I hand over the items to her and come up with an excuse about the damaged umbrella.

Haruna: You must be tired while walking all the way back.

Koharu: Yeah.. The wind's blowing hard today that my umbrella starts to bend a bit.

Then, my mother suddenly hugs me passionately. Comforting me as she shows no sign of her being mad at me at all.

Haruna: It must be hard for you dealing with "them", right?

Koharu: !!

I immediately remember that she can tell through people's mind after making physical contact with them, even just by shaking hands. But even though she knows what actually happened to me at the General Store. She smiles at me to console me.

Haruna: There's no reason for me to be upset with you, Koharu.. You made the right choice helping her out.

I feel the guilt of trying to hide it from her well up to my heart.. I hug back and apologise to her immediately.

Koharu: I'm sorry.. Mother..

She pats my head, remembered how Lai pats my head whenever he smiles at me..

Haruna: It's inevitable.. They'll just keep coming at you and anyone would do anything to stop them from coming.

Koharu: But.. I didn't hold back..

Haruna: Oh.. You're just want to keep them out from harming the others. I can still see that bright side of yours sealed in your heart.

Koharu: What if there isn't..? I'm scared that I'll lose myself and become like this forever.

She answers back without hesitation..

Haruna: I would still love you.. You're always my daughter.. No matter what changes you..

Her words make my tears well up and cries in her chest.

Koharu: *Sob* I'm sorry.. Mother.. I want to be the old me that you loved so much. I don't want to be changed if it makes you sad!

She pats my back as she tries to console me..

Haruna: Let it all out.. It'll make you feel better..

We stayed in our hug until I finally calm down.. Then, I stayed close with my mother as much as I can to mend up our lost relationship after two years of separation. I suggest something to her.

Koharu: Mother? Can we play the piano together... I missed playing it with you, along with my favorite song.

My request made her smile happily.. She nods in reply.

Haruna: Sure!

We break our hug and head over to the living room where there's a piano at the corner. She sits on the bench, opening the cover of the piano notes before I join in, we sit close to each other on the same piano bench. My mother closes her eyes as she tries to recall all the notes that hit for the song, Uchiage Hanabi. She remembers it and sets her fingers on the starting note when I prepare myself for the singing.

Haruna: Ready?

Koharu: Yeah!

Then, she starts playing the song as our head bops lightly to sync with the music. We played in the end without commenting each other, not to disturb the rhyme.

"I still remember the beach I looked over that day"

"Words carved on the sand Your back"

"The bounced waves cross your feet and kidnap something"

"Only midnightfall in the evening calm passes by"

"I saw the fireworks that flashed and bloomed"

"I'm sure summer isn't over yet"

"I unraveled my vague heart and connected"

"I wanted this night to continue"

"How many more times can I see the same fireworks as you?"

"What can you do with a laughing face?"

"Hurting, rejoicing, repeating waves and emotions"

"Frustration The sound of the last train"

"I'll call you in words as many times as I want"

"Select the wave and try again"

"So that you won't be sad again"

"The light that seems to disappear if you take a breath"

"I'm sure I still lived in my chest"

"If you reach out, you can touch the warm future"

"I was secretly watching them"

"Fireworks suddenly (fireworks suddenly)"

"Bloomed at night (bloomed at night)"

"Blooming at night (blooming at night)"

"Quietly disappeared (quietly disappeared)"

"Don't let go (don't let go)"

"Just a little more (just a little more)"

"Just a little more like this"

"I still remember the beach I looked over that day"

"Words carved on the sand Your back"

"I saw the fireworks that flashed and bloomed"

"I'm sure summer isn't over yet"

"I unraveled my vague heart and connected"

"I wanted this night to continue"

"La la la la la la la la la la la la la la la la la"

"La la la la la la la la la la la la la la la la la la la la la"

"La la la la la la la la la la la la la la la la la"

"La la la la la la la la la la la la la la la la la la la la la"

The music starts to dim down as the song reaches its end. I calmly catch my breath as we enjoy the song to the fullest. My mother looks refreshed.

Haruna: Ah~! That was great! I think it'll be better if you get to play it! ^^

Koharu: But.. I forgot the piano notes for it. It's been two years so my piano skill is kinda rusty now..

Haruna: Oh, dear...

She gently grabs my hand, making connection with our hearts.

Haruna: You'll master it again.. Koharu.. As long as you devote your feelings on it. Just like how you devoted yourself when you just sang. I love your heavenly voice.

Koharu: Thanks.. Mother!

Timeskip... 10:00pm...

Our bonds strengthens as time passes, also eventually made me forget about the fight. I could tell my heart has been fully healed. After dinner, I asked my mother to sleep with her just for tonight.

Koharu: Mother..

Haruna: What's wrong?

Then, I stutter as I feel shy to ask..

Koharu: Uhm.. Can I stay with you tonight?

She agrees immediately..

Haruna: Of course. You're always welcome. You haven't got a good sleep after all this..

Her answer made me jump a bit in happiness before joining her into her room.

Koharu: Thanks!

We're already in our pajamas and about to head into bed for our sleep. I snuck into the blanket before my mother. She looks at me, loving my mother's scent and happily lies next to me.

Haruna: You have been staying awfully close today..

I just realized it after hearing what she just said..

Koharu: Oh..! Am I? Well...

I confessed that I want to stay with her..

Koharu: I want to be with you as much as I can.. Mother.. To make up those two years of not being by your side at all..

Haruna: It's already in the past... I'm just glad to see you made it out..

Koharu: Yeah..

My mind starts to play out the memories of him.. But I forcefully shut my thoughts away as I close my eyes and fawns in her embrace. Until my mother suddenly brings him as the topic.

Haruna: Koharu..? Are you.. Thinking about him again?

I silent a bit as she already knows what I'm thinking..

Koharu: ...Yeah..

Haruna: I'm sorry for bringing him up.. I know it's still hurt you deeply.

Koharu: No! It's okay! In fact.. I want to ask.. What do you think about him, mother?

She stares up and thinking..

Haruna: He's definitely a good kid deep down inside him. Although.. The way he does..

I feel the tension runs through my body as I expected a criticize comment from her..

Koharu: ...I know you're-

Her smile disappears, as she feels a bit concerned about him..

Haruna: Well, he had to.. Right?

Koharu: Huh?

Haruna: He's still young and have a bright future... But he abandoned it and secured yours instead..

Koharu: Mother...

Haruna: He also reminded me of your father who devoted his love to me.. The memories of him still living inside my mind every time I played his favorite music.

Koharu: Is that so?

Haruna: We both experienced the pain of losing one's precious. I was once sad and shed a tear, but I got over it because of you.. Now, it's your turn to get over with my help.

Hearing it from her, I finally look up to her face. Seeing her smile beams at me.. My tears well up as I start to miss him.

Koharu: I missed him... I missed spending times with him..

She brushes through my hair while hugging me as I cry silently.

Haruna: It's okay.. Let our sleep hides away our past.. And hope it will never be brought up again.

I could feel her warmth and her affection calms me down once again.. I fell asleep eventually..

The next day.. January 14th, Boxing Room.. Japan Standard Time, 9:00am.. located in Kashiwa, Chiba.

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

I'm currently on practicing my daily boxing training, I throw out 4 hit combos of punches and swings two kicks from both sides before a drop kick as the finisher that sends the punching bag high up.

My name is Lai.. Actually, it's Kento.. Kento Lai. Lai is the family name. A 16 years old boy, blue, spiky haired, Sapphire eyes with a carefree look and a dark past. I somehow still got out from that death game.. Been somewhere unknown before I got back to the real world. My mind still searching for that answers. Until a voice calls out to me.

???: Yo! How's your training?

I reply back as soon as I heard the voice. But I couldn't come up a word as I'm panting heavily.

Lai: *Huff!* *Huff!* You're.. Bac-!

*Pong!*

I got hit by the punching bag as I forgot that it swings back down to me. The man facepalms himself as he witnesses what just happened.

Lai: Oof...

???: Good grief... You're pushing yourself again..

Lai: Well, gotta keep my body fit again. Especially being trapped for two years and came back like a Skeleton, dad.

???: Oh! That reminded me of you had 5 big bowl pork ramen in a single day. I was surprised you're able to digest that much.

Lai: Not the fact I escaped the game successfully?

???: Well, I don't want to trigger your PTSD in there, Kento.

Lai: I ain't a weakling anymore..

The boy finally faces the man.

My dad, Vincent.. Vincent Lai.. A good-looking, well-built 56 years old, a Chinese Americans who is a former Green Beret when he was just 21 in 1990, before his interest towards firearms kicks in and started his own Arms industries company, called Ark industries, mainly for developing advanced weapons and military technologies. He tosses me a bottle of warm water.

Lai: Oh yeah, how's mom doing right now?

Vincent: Oh.. That detective is still busy as always. You know her.. She puts work as her first and having her to visit her own child would be a miracle. Except that time she visited you with me when you're awake.

I feel a bit depressed as I still couldn't see my mom even I had escaped the game.

Lai: ...Hm..

Vincent: Hey! Don't get too depressed. At least, we still can return to our usual day. Playing various Doom Mods in multiplayer, you and I. And you get to rest up for months until the government announce about how they are gonna fix your education.

I chuckle a bit as I still remember the moment we spent time playing games together.

Lai: I forgot you're a Doom fan for 32 years. Probably the biggest one and also my best dad.

Vincent: Too bad your mom is really against us playing it because of course, the violence.

A memory of me brutally smashing someone's head to the barrier that it makes my body recoil back.

Lai: !!

He notices my reaction and curiously comment.

Vincent: Hm? You seems like you just went through a Vietnam war and WW2 at the same time.

I look at him, sigh and explain to my dad..

Lai: I gotta say... It wasn't just a war.. It was a chaos to the fullest.

A scene shows me ripping out the player's spine after pinning him on the ground.

Vincent: What? Is it harder than Dark Souls?

Another memories show a Red Player got his body fully sawed in half by my portable saw, teared both of his arms off and got his head crushed by my stomp.

Lai: Yep.. Thanks to the f*cking players..

One that shows me gripped on one of his leg and slamming the Red Players on the ground again and again until his head turns into bloody mush and breaks one of his legs off, sending him flying in the air before disperse into fragment.

Vincent: Whoa.. This is the first time hearing you swearing. But do you really have to go that far?

Lai: They were torturing.. They were criminals.. I need to do it..! All of them had their crooked smile on until I shred them apart.

I cut off another Red Player's arm and drilled my hands into his lower stomach, ripping out his intestines just by my bare hand, immediately drops his HP to Zero before he could even attack me. The scene keeps playing as our conversation goes.

Lai: Some of them thought they're not "morally" wrong when killing somebody since they can be stupid enough to think it's just a game.

A knife drills through the Orange player's brain with a few twists, then slowly splits his skull open.

Lai: Some of them just enjoy killing, for mere enjoyment, even fully known it means death IRL.

I sawed an Orange Player's head off and continues on sawing his body in half apart. Watching his evily face turns into his fear towards death expression before I shot a blade disk straight to his face.

Lai: But I do not enjoy this at all.. But this is what I must do to kill the "demons".

I grab both of the Orange Player's hands as he was about to stab me with a large dagger, but I headbutt him and pushed him away. Then I immediately threw a Spear that pins his entire avatar onto a tree, I watch him helplessly struggled to pull out, begging me to release him. I gut his chest open and drilled my entire hand, ripping out his heart. He was scared as I pick up a Spiked Mace..

Red Player: No! Please!!

*Plak!* *Plak!* *Crack!*

I started bashing his head with the Spiked Mace until the tree falls off..

Lai: It was too many of them, but I got it done in the end. They're all goners.

Vincent: Sounds like you just went through the Doom Commercial instead.

Lai: *Collapsed*

I collapsed on the ground by my dad's joke.

Lai: This is serious! Dad!

Vincent: Hey, calm down. I'm just messing with you to keep you away from being depressed. You almost went into it.

I drink the water for a few gulp.

Vincent: And one more thing, what's the point of keeping your Nervegear that got you in the mess in the first place? I'm surprised you didn't recoil by it. It's like you didn't get PTSD at all.

Lai: Oh, that one.. I have my own reasons.. I just.. Forgot about it..

Vincent: I don't buy that..

Lai: Trust me.. I ain't gonna wear the device that would microwave a person's brain again.

I take another gulp of the water..

Lai: *Sigh* I wish my mind is still completely fine from all that traumatic fight. I can't get it out my head.

Vincent: Everything we did will remain in our minds. That's how memories usually work.

I stand up and look at my dad who is sitting on a bench as a question pops up.

Lai: Yeah... Wait!

Vincent: Hm?

Lai: What about the basement!? Did all of them had gone rusty!?

Vincent: Your mother and I take turns on looking after the Apartment Complex while you're in coma. Don't worry, those can hold up a year before getting rusty.

Lai: Oh.. Thank god..

I resume back to my training, still replying..

Vincent: Why are you worrying about that?

Lai: Well, it's my lifetime job to take care of the house while you both are busy in work.

Vincent: Hm.. You got a point.. Maybe your marksman skill starts to go rusty?

Lai: It's in the opposite, it's just got better than before.

Vincent: Did it implemented in the games as well?

Lai: It has bows. So why not guns?

Vincent: You know the best about SAO, not me.. And why the hell a Sword game has guns btw?

Lai: Don't ask me.. Ask the murderer. Speaking of that, want a spar?

He chuckles and shakes his head..

Vincent: Do not try me..

Lai: But I will.. Come on!

The man stands up and warns me before he gets into his Street Fighting style stance.

Vincent: You will regret it.. That's all I can say.

Without saying ready, I throw a punch straight towards his stomach. As the hit connects, he didn't move an inch. Instead, the pain shot from my fist and then through my arm. I kneel down as I groan the pain.

Lai: Agh!!

Vincent: I told you.. I trained these abs for decades.

Suddenly, he swings a leg at me but I block his incoming kick, rolls away to dodge his fist.

Vincent: I see.. Not just your marksman skill..

Lai: I've been surviving for two years. Of course, I would learn anything I can to live.

I dodge another one and throw a kick, but got caught by him. I hop with another one, he dodges the kick and releases me. He easily catches one of my punch and pulls me, then tackles me away with his shoulder, launches me away.

Lai: *Cough!*

Vincent: Impressive.. But you still need to train your instincts, thoroughly.

I chuckle as I missed the nostalgia time.

Lai: More like adding this to your victory streak..

Vincent: Well, there's no limit for improvement.. Try catching on with me..

I lie down on the ground as I need a rest..

Lai: You always excelled at the physical and mentally at peak. No matter it's a chess game, martial arts.

Vincent: Only the weak who would say that.

Lai: That means I still have room to improve..

My dad then smiles.

Vincent: You've grown so much.. After two years.. Back then, you're just a normal teenage guy, just like other ones out there. But in term of mentality, I acknowledge you have surpassed me. Here's some advice for you..

Lai: Hm?

Vincent: No matter what past you have. Don't look back. Once it got a hold on you and you'll be changed. I'm sure you understand that.

Lai: But I guess it's already over, dad..

Then, my dad looks down to the ground.

Vincent: I don't think so..

Lai: What do you mean?

Vincent: 298 players are still trapped.. Somehow they didn't escape successfully from the death game..

Lai: What!?

My dad just shows me his phone with the website of the news about the most recent SAO Survivors update.

Lai: "298 of SAO Survivors are still in coma.. The age range is 30 - 10 years old. Is it cause by the VR's trauma or it's actually a part of Akihiko Kayaba's plan?". No f*cking way..

Vincent: I'm glad you're not one of them. I guess there'll be a lot of work for the investigator.

Lai: Is my mom investigating this?

Vincent: I believe she will take it.. No matter how hard the case is.

Lai: Can I meet her right now?

Vincent: What for?

Lai: For discussion..

As I about to leave the room, he tries to advice me..

Vincent: There's nothing much you can do.. Kento.. The Government Official and the Task Force are working on it.

I swing my fist for venting my frustrations..

Lai: Damn it..!

I grabbed my bag and ready to exit out the room.

Lai: I'm heading back to home!

I hurry myself out from the boxing centre and head back to the Apartment Complex. Leaving my dad in the room.

Vincent: ...Good grief..

Timeskip... Lai's Apartment Complex..

Back to Apartment Complex, it is a 5-Stories high with accessible rooftop, the entrance living room on first floor, lobby hub at second floor, along with kitchen, study room, bathroom, also a stairs to my room and another vacant room in the third floor. The fourth and the fifth are just living room along with a few vacant rooms and the full view windows. Only used for sightseeing since I'm living there alone and taking care the whole Apartment. Also, there's an working elevator so I can access each floors much easier. Additionally, there's a Secret Underground Shooting Range, which my duty is to clean off the dust of every firearms. I did some research on the recent SAO incidents. It is just as my dad said as I read the article in every news website, "298 Survivors remained in coma state." "How the government response to the recent update of the Full Dive VR tragedy?" "The prime minister, Mr. Yoshihide Suga responses to the tragedy"

"2175 Survivors has been successfully escaped in November 2nd. Then, 227 Survivors has woken up in November 5th.. I believe the remaining 298 SAO Survivors will be safely return to the real world."

I mumble as I sigh in disappointment.

Lai: Big mouth for someone who didn't do shiet and left us to die...

I drill into my mind and thought to myself.

Lai: (So 298 Players are still in there.. But how.. Koharu's the one who did beat the game. My plan was going smooth.)

I start to worry even more as soon as I remember her name..

Lai: (Don't tell me... She might be one of them!?)

I shake my head to escape the frustration. But..

Lai: (What if she's one of them!? How the hell am I gonna find her!?)

That's when I remember what Nishida said about the Argus..

Lai: (If Argus is disbanded.. It can't be Kayaba's work.. Or not? The government should have found him and forced him to release the survivors already. It can't be him... It can't be him..)

I spring up from my chair and eyes off from the monitor. Frustrated as I have no clue and I don't even know where to start. I just realized that I panicked a bit.

Lai: (Calm down.. Calm down..)

I take the elevator and head to the Underground Shooting Range. I start browsing the collection as soon as I walk out of the elevator. I look at the sidearms section, with a series of different brand such as the Smith & Wesson, Heckler & Koch, FN Herstal, Beretta and other well-known brands. I could tell the collection has gotten bigger after two years, as I noticed the shelves became longer

Lai: Did Dad just grew his collection?

I casually pick an emptied CZ 75 sidearms and several magazines of 9×19mm Parabellum. I insert one of it into the loader and pull the slide. I also grab a target paper and clip on the hang before I press the button. The paper distances away for 10 meters. I steady myself, raises up the gun with my right hand, holding with left. I set my sight on the default iron sight of the gun. I pull the trigger, fire the first shot, the gun springs out the first casing from the chamber and drops on the ground, making a satisfying sound of the casing dropping on the ground. Thankfully, I was able to fully control the recoil so I shot a few in Semi-Auto until I emptied the first 20 Rounds 9mm Magazine, even though it's loud as heck tho. I press another button that says "Result". Checking the accuracy rate of my shots that had fired out. Surprisingly is, all shots are hit as I counted 20 holes from the paper. A few of it didn't actually hit the target drawn on the paper. I detach the magazine and pull the slide open before settling on the table. I feel myself impressed but still couldn't get off from the frustration.. Then, I heard a gunshot that wasn't fired from me.

Lai: !!

I walk up to the gunshot and immediately recognize that it was my mom.

My mom.. Joyce, Joyce Yong.. A beautiful-looking, great-physique and confidence 41 years old woman, daughter of the Chinese-Japanese, Former Police Chief of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department. Received her police training when she was just reached 18. Now works as a detective in the police force. Well-known around her colleagues for her swift execution kills.

Lai: Mom!

Joyce: I'm surprised you knew it was me..

Lai: Well, the others would just shot me.. Not testing the shooting range with me. Still, you scared the hell out of me.

Joyce: "For utmost safety, please do not remove the Nervegear".. That was your famous last word, isn't it?

I instantly remember the note as soon as I heard it from her menacingly tone.

Lai: Uhm..! That's right! Safety always come first!! It's just I forgot where did I put all the protections into!

She shoots a death glare at me that made me gulp my saliva. But she sighs out and continues her shooting practice with only One-Handed on her Glock 19 with her right hand.

Joyce: Well.. What happen's already happened. I cannot control you forever.

Lai: Oh..

The guilt of leaving her for two years well up to my heart. Trying to apologize to her.

Lai: Mom.. I'm.. I'm-

She fires another shot to cut off my sentence. Calmly tells me not to disturb her training.

Joyce: Don't say anything...

She continues her shot on the 30 meters target, until she hears a click on her gun and the slide left open. She slowly sets the empty Glock 19 on the table and sees the result. Surprisingly, all 15 shots are hit on the head.

Joyce: I made a grave mistake.. I should be a good mother to you, just like your father. I only realized the regret when you got trapped in that death game. The fact I might won't be able to see you again.

Lai: ...

I could tell she holds her emotion and refuse to shed a tear as she loads another 9mm Magazine to her Glock 19 and pull the slide to lock the chamber with the first round. Additionally, turning on the gun's safety mode before sheathing back to her pocket.

Joyce: I thought looking at the photo with you and me having fun at the Theme Park would be enough to cheer me on so I could focus on my career.. Oh boy, I was wrong.. A lot..

Lai: But now, the 298 SAO Survivors are still in the hospital.. I guess you'll be having a hard time dealing with that.. You should focus yourself on saving them.

Joyce: And leave you alone in this Apartment Complex? Again?

Lai: ...Sorry..

She punches the wall and grits her teeth..

Joyce: *Sigh* Damn that Kayaba... I already got enough trouble from the others.

I watch her venting out her frustration in front of me.. Yet still keeping her cool as she looks at me..

Joyce: We should have a talk. I made some tea before I came here.

Lai: Sure..

Timeskip... Lobby hub..

We both have a sip of warm milk tea, using my mother's favorite brand and that only type that would calm her mind down. She let out a sigh of relaxation as the sugar starts easing her mind and the warm boosts her blood circulation.

Joyce: Ah~ This is the best.. Especially spending time with my boy.

Lai: I have to agree with you about this.. You hardly came back home when I was a kid until now.

Joyce: Yeah.. Things always going hellstorm. But this time, it's way more chaotic. We're now up against thousands of people that are protesting about the Full Dive VR's incident. Probably started by the SAO Victim's families, friends or whatever they have connection with.

Lai: So there's a riot going around!?

Joyce: Yeah.. The police have to resort everything, including violence. We've been fighting for two years until 2175 Survivors has escaped. The riot's still continue.. Couple of people died, 8 of the police eventually perished. The U.S President, Joe Biden even mobilized their military and sent to Japan to control the riot. They shouldn't deserve this..

Lai: But Kayaba is the one they should be protesting against. Why the government's?

Joyce: The people of Japan wants the government to shut down anything involved with the Full dive technologies. That includes the Military's Full-dive simulation training, Full-dive Flight Simulator and anything that requires simulation training.

I cover my face with both of my hands as I couldn't believe it..

Lai: My f*cking god...

Joyce: I knew it's too much for you to know.. It's just how it is.. This is how humanity works..

Lai: Never thought Kayaba would left such impact to the entire Japan.

Joyce: What about you inside that VR game?

I look at her.. Sigh as I don't want to think about that anymore.

Lai: Probably same as you just said, except it involves mass deaths in the end..

She silences a bit as she is at loss of her words. She could understand after listening my sentence.

Joyce: ...I see..

She takes a sip of her tea.. Let the sweetness easing her pain..

Joyce: Do you know why I named you "Kento" before "Lai"?

Lai: Lai means "黎" (Lí) in Chinese, "黎明"(Lí Míng) also means "Dawn" in English.

Joyce: And Kento means "Cure for Happiness".. I wish all three of us would see that dawn, the start of the happiness before the sunrise every single day, even just once would be enough. But the reality just want to screw everything up whenever it feels like to..

Her words strike my heart.. As I finally know the meaning..

Lai: ...Mom..

She looks at me while sipping her tea.

Joyce: Hm..?

I spring to her as I burst out my tears of joy..

Lai: I love you! Mom!

Her eyes widened to the point she almost spills her tea.

Joyce: Hey! You're going to mess up the tea!

Timeskip... Japan Standard Time, 10:00am..

After the break, we head back to the shooting range as we decided to test out the weapons. I browse the collection again and this time for choosing something robust. I grab two rifles, M4A1 and AK-47, both with no attachments at all. Along with several 30 Rounds Magazine of 5.56×45mm NATO Ammo and 7.62×39mm Ammo.

Joyce: You're starting off with these?

Lai: Well, I think I'm on the right track as a beginners. Which one you picked?

Joyce: Definitely that M4.

Lai: Okay..

I hand her over the M4A1 just as she just said.. I pull the bolt and check the chamber to make sure it's not loaded. Then, I casually toss up the mag in a spin before catching it, attach it on the feed system and pull the bolt to load the first bullet. I clip a new paper target and this time, I set the target to 50 meters. I look at the small lever that says the safety and it's on, another one is for the selective fire mode, Semi fire and Auto fire. I turn off the safety and start aiming with the iron sight. I shot in 3 to 5 burst fire mode. My mom does the same stance as mine except her fire mode is in Semi as I could tell she's firing one by one each time she pulls the trigger. I finished empty the first magazine of my AK-47. My mom asks me.

Joyce: Hey, before you reload. Show me how you do with that AK of yours.

I grab a new one and push the lever that detach the mag, knock away the empty one and simply just load in and pull the bolt.

Lai: I've been taking care of this place for years. It would be an insult if I fail on this one.

Joyce: Actually, it's almost an insult for you because you'll never get to use it for real situation.

Lai: *Collapsed*

I got up, unload the magazine and pull out the bolt to spring out the first loaded bullet.

Joyce: Sorry.. This isn't America..

Lai: Yeah.. I know..

I continue to watch her firing with the M4A1 in Semi.

Lai: Why not trying Full Auto?

Joyce: I only bring sidearms and several hidden knives for self-defense and quick kills. Even going loud, I'd grab myself an Uzi. Talk about knives, my throwing are kinda rusty on the accuracy now.

I grab a thin wooden board target this time for her knife throwing.

Lai: I was about to say that.

She grabs the board and clips it before pressing the button to distance the target away from her for 10 meters.

Joyce: Thanks..

She reveals a set of sharp but small knives hidden on both of her upper legs. She swiftly picks up, carrying 4 knives in total, 2 knives in each of her hands. She reminds me of someone's secret technique.

Flashback starts..

???: Kitsune's Claw Slash Combos!

After a series of the Nine-tailed Claw Slashes, she throws all 8 Kunais to the target and explode it with her Titan Shuriken.

Flashback ends..

My mom just throws two of her knives. Both hit over and under the target's heart point. Then, she throws another two, this time hitting side by side between the heart. Forming a Diamond shape with all 4 knives pinned.

Joyce: Thank goodness... The Diamond Strike still works beautifully..

I mutter out without thinking.

Lai: That reminds me of her...

Joyce: Her? A girlfriend of yours?

Lai: Yeah.. No! She's my partner in-! No!

She leans the rifle on her shoulder.

Joyce: Partner in crime?

Lai: Yeah! But no at the same time!

My mom suddenly points at me with her M4A1 as she shoots me with a death glare, like a laser pointer on my forehead. I panickingly remind her about the gun safety rules.

Lai: Hey! Hey! Turn on the Safety, Mom!

Joyce: But you have violated the basic rule of the love couple. No man should ever hide their feelings towards his own woman.

Lai: But...

Joyce: But what?

Lai: We went through a lot since the start of the death game. And I realized I didn't know her real name after we escaped.

Joyce: *Collapsed*

Then, she grabs my collar angrily.

Joyce: You've been with her for two years and didn't ask for her real name!?

Lai: We have to respect our privacy so we seldomly talk about things in real life!

Joyce: ...

She releases my collar.

Joyce: I know Japan is full of well-mannered people. But.. That way you won't be able to see her again. So tell me what's worth it?

I let out a sigh as I felt silly for not asking that.

Lai: *Sigh* Should've take my chance to ask that.. But can you help me locate her?

Joyce: Give me a reason..

Lai: I don't know if she managed to escape the death game or not.. My mind has been a mess because of that.

Joyce: ...

Lai: And.. Her mother is her only kin, her closest one.. Her father passed away in an accident.

Joyce: Oh..

Her face reveals a bit depressed..

Joyce: Sorry for forcing you out..

Lai: It's okay.. I'll tell you more about her.. Let's get these Magazine filled up.

Joyce: Sure..

I head back to the ammo depot. Grabbing a box of Winchester brand 9mm ammunitions for her Glock 19. Along with any boxes full of 5.56×45mm and 7.62×39mm ammunitions for both rifles. I filled the used, emptied 30 Round Magazines while my mom fills her 15 Rounds Standard Magazines after I hand her the box of Winchester 9mm.

Joyce: It feels funny.. You've grown so much in just 2 years. But I have never wish you to become a savior of other people.

My heart becomes anxious as she questions me.

Lai: What do you mean?

On the other side, she just gets to the point, wishing to end this conversation as soon as possible.

Joyce: Your dad told me what you had done in that death game.

Lai: ...

That panics me a bit, as I expected her to arrest or something else. Then, I feel a warmth from mom's sudden hug.

Joyce: Kento.. Mom's not gonna judge you. It's not about what you had done. It's the burden after what you've done. Do you want to carry that all to yourself for the rest of your life.

Lai: ...

I silenced for a second.. Couldn't joke about the deaths that is done by my hand.

Lai: I will carry it.. Mom.. But I will not fall.. Because drowning by my own guilt is what they would wish for me before dying to my blade. And I would damn sure they'll regret wishing that for me.

Joyce: ...Kento..

Lai: ?

Joyce: I.. I...

I feel the hug is tightening up from my mom..

Lai: Mom!?

Joyce: My son has grown so well!

Lai: Get a hold of yourself!! You're squeezing me out!

Timeskip... Lobby hub in second floor.

Joyce: Ahem.. Sorry for the hug.. Back to that girl.. I'm sure you still remember her name, right?

Lai: It's Koharu.. Straight, short hair and Emerald Green eyes.

Joyce: How did you know how she looks like? I remember MMORPG has the feature to create any appearances for their character, just like a Vtuber does.

Lai: Akihiko Kayaba resets our faces and body to the Real Life before he announced the start of the death game.

Joyce: Is that so? It should make the search much easier.

Lai: Thanks..

Joyce: What are you going to do after that?

Lai: Depends how is she doing right now... Hoping she is doing fine.. That's what I wish for her. Think you can do it?

Joyce: The information you provided is enough for me. But there's one condition.

A bad feeling rings me about her condition.

Lai: Which is?

Joyce: Mind if I join you and visit her together? I'd love to.

I drop a sweat as soon as I receive her request.

Lai: Uhm...

I look away as I couldn't hide my blush. My mom couldn't help but smile happily.

Joyce: Ara ara~! Don't try to hide it. You know you can't escape anything from me!

Lai: Stop it!

We end up getting into friendly argument as I'm scared mom would do or saying weird things to Koharu.

"We'll meet again... Soon.."

End of Chapter...