The first VRMMORPG has just entered Beta Testing and one thousand Beta Testers have been selected at relative randomness among the population of Japan. How far will these betas get inside the first MMO of this experimental genre?
Aincrad Standard Time: [6:30] August 2nd 2022
Location: [Floor 1 – Outside the City of Beginning]
The SAO Closed Beta has started the day before and a fifth of the 1000 Beta Testers are online at the moment to explore more of floor 1 of this mythical VRMMORPG: Sword Art Online. A black haired player known as Masaru is among one of the strongest so far in this game, and has made it the furthest, with him reaching a settlement called Horunka Village.
"Well...I reached this place yesterday, It's time I start training so I can get even farther" the player: Masaru says in a mellow tone.
Masaru departs Horunka to enter the nearby forest to beginning training solo, with it taking only a half hour of walking. He then starts his training with a single longsword against wasps, boars, and bears. However, he's getting in over his head when he attracts nine of each type of monster to fight against him.
"Oh...crap...I'm screwed aren't I...?" Masaru says in mild self-defeat, with him only being three hits from death, which would send him back to the Room of Resurrection in the City of Beginnings.
However, around now, a player in black with a skull mask suddenly rushes into the area and somehow manages to slay all of the wasps and boars very quickly with a rapier.
"You okay?" The player asks, with the mask hiding his or her true voice.
"I guess I am now, let's get rid of these bears, together." Masaru says, with a tiny smile at the fact he's getting his ass saved.
"Sure" The player says, slashing at four of the bears rather acrobatically, dodging a good deal of their attacks, leaving five bears for Masaru.
After the pair eliminate all of the monsters, this mysterious player approaches the black haired player, wearing a dark blue outfit with cyan trims.
"I owe you...thanks" Masaru says with a bow. "What's your name in this world?" Masaru asks the masked player.
"Solaris. Yours?" The player: Solaris states with a low tone because of the mask.
"Masaru. I guess...I got over my head, I'm trying to become the best there is. Also because I've never played an MMO before this...I guess I got over-eager" Masaru says sheepishly.
"Let me be blunt. If you're a novice to the MMO thing, NEVER go to dungeons and the like alone. It's one of the stupidest things you could ever do." Solaris says in an edgeless tone.
"Wow...couldn't you have softened that at all?" Masaru asks in a depressed tone.
"No, sometimes you must be blunt in your lessons. Take this crystal, you need healing. After this, I'll be accompanying you from here on. If you truly want to be stronger, you must have an ally you can trust." Solaris says, passing a red crystal to Masaru, who uses it immediately to recover his HP.
"You said this was your first MMO. Why would you choose to beta test an experimental MMO genre if this is your first? I would've gone to an already existent MMO if you wanted to play one." Solaris asks curiously.
"...Not a whole ton of choice, I've been locked in a shell since my parents died two years ago...my uncle got me into this game to break me out of this shell of mine. In the last two years, I have not made any friends at all, and my bonds with my old friends are gone aside from one friend who came to see me every Sunday. He used all of his business contacts to get me into beta testing and to acquire a NerveGear. He had to make deals that would last months if not years."
"Oh...this guy has gone through hell...I feel so bad for him if its true. Shame I can't try comforting him, it'd be awkward for a guy to comfort another guy...not like a girl comforting a guy." Solaris says secretly in his/her thoughts. "I see, how tragic, anyway, we ought to get going. If it's any condolence, I can sympathize with you" Solaris says emotionlessly.
"...Thank you Solaris" Masaru says, a tad nervously.
"Let's go. I can see promise in you, and I plan to cultivate that as much as possible" Solaris states quietly, and a little cryptically as well.
"...Talk about creepy, you're treating me like a peon or something" Masaru says in a mildly freaked out tone.
"Hardly, peons are considered disposable, I aim for the exact opposite, I aim to build you up to become irreplaceable, a warrior capable of fighting anything without fear." Solaris says emotionlessly.
"Um...thanks?" Masaru asks very confusedly, scratching the back of his head in mild fear, he has no idea if Solaris is trying to praise him or not.
"Let's go. I intend to clear this floor by the end of the week, and I need your assistance to do this. I know how MMOs work, they rarely make it where you can fight a boss solo. Let's team up to fight that boss, you and me" Solaris says, with a hidden smile.
"You seem rather eager to help a novice" Masaru asks curiously.
"I'm a good judge of character, I was watching your battle against those creatures. Also, your claim at novice status is true but...you hold potential, I intend to help it get unleashed." Solaris says, with an inaudible laugh.
"Wait, you saw that happen and you only chose to help when I was about to die?!" Masaru asks angrily at Solaris' apparent torture.
"If I helped you right away, I wouldn't have been able to fully judge your abilities. Sometimes you have to be harsh to do what is right." Solaris states without a single care in the world.
"Why you-" Masaru begins to growl, before getting interrupted by Solaris.
"Enough talk, party up with me, I want to get you to level 10 as quickly as possible. That'll pretty much give you invulnerability on this floor, save the dungeon." Solaris states nonchalantly.
"If you say so. Let's go" Masaru says, eager to fight again, still angry a little.
"Quite eager aren't you? I like that. I'll send you a party invite, I intend to make you fight most of these battles, but if things get bad, I'll come bail you out" Solaris says with a laugh.
"...Bastard" Masaru says to himself angrily, before speaking to Solaris "Very well, if that's what you wish" Masaru says, accepting the party invite, and when he looks at the party listing, something shocks him. "Holy crap...this guy's level 12! How?! The strongest player should be around level 5 or 6 right now! I myself am only level 4, half way to level 5. This guy must be a truly extreme power-gamer...That's the only thing I can think of..." Masaru says to himself in utter surprise. "Hey Solaris"
"Yes? What is it?" Solaris asks with a small scowl.
"How did you acquire such an exotic outfit and weapon? This game just started yesterday afternoon." Masaru asks curiously, noticing the unique looking outfit and weapon Solaris is using, which has a rose red blade, a black guard with a silver glow all over the weapon.
"I used the SAO creation application. It's a side application, it allows you to design your own weapons, armors, and clothing, though the system is the one who assigns all of the specifics. I made this style last night."
"Wow, so you designed this yourself? Remarkable" Masaru says, mildly awestruck over the very elegant and extravagant outfit & weapon this Solaris made, it clearly must've took a good deal of time to make this design.
Aincrad Standard Time: [9:00] August 2nd 2022
Masaru and Solaris have been training since they met up, Masaru has gone up three levels and has made it to level 7. The pair are in a grassland field outside the City of Beginnings hunting monsters, when something suddenly kills the monster Masaru was fighting.
"What the hell?! Someone stole my kill! Solaris, did you do it?" Masaru asks, clearly pissed off.
"No, I'm way over here! There's no way I could've stole your kill. Besides, why would I do so in the first place? I'm trying to train you, Masaru." Solaris says, angry that he or she's being called out for this.
"That, was my doing" A voice says, in the direction of a large rock formation about two and a half meters to the east.
"And who are you wise guy?" Masaru asks the brown haired player angrily.
"You can call me Pulse. So sorry about stealing your kill" The player: Pulse says sarcastically, and with a laugh.
"Grr..." Masaru growls angrily, before being stopped by Solaris.
"Stand down, and...is that a bow?!" Solaris says coldly to Masaru, and in shock, noticing Pulse's weapon.
"Correct, I'm a very rare case, I'm the only beta tester allowed to utilize ranged weaponry like this. Hey...come out, quit being a scaredy cat" Pulse says calmly, and compassionately to someone nearby, confusing Masaru and Solaris for a moment, before noticing a female player behind this brown haired avatar.
"But..." The player says in a squeaky voice, surprising considering her brave looking avatar.
"No buts, introduce yourself. All one thousand of us are going to be working together to some degree, build a network you can depend on" Pulse says sternly, trying to encourage this person.
"...Okay...eto ne...My...My name is...Mikuya...yoroshikuonegaishimasu...ooo...I messed up..." the player: Mikuya says, seemingly about to cry.
"Mikuya, calm yourself down, and try again, okay?" Pulse says paternally, with a good connection being somewhat evident between the two.
"Do you two know each other in real life? You just seem way more comfortable than a duo that met in the game." Solaris asks curiously.
"Putting it simply, I'm acquaintances with Mikuya's parents in real life, they're pre-occupied elsewhere, so they asked me to watch over her while they're away." Pulse says nonchalantly.
Mikuya nervously nods in approval to this claim.
"Look, I will admit I should've have stolen your kill, I wanted to test out this weapon." Pulse says calmly, and apologetically at the same time.
"I...I guess I can let it slide, just this once. Mostly cause of that thing you said before 'All one thousand of us are going to be working together to some degree, build a network you can depend on'. That actually makes a lot of sense to me" Masaru says with a small sigh.
"Yeah, such a saying can be relatively inspiring." Solaris states in his or her usual tone, there's no way to tell if this person is a guy or girl.
"Hmm...you appear to be a very fascinating individual Solaris." Pulse says casually.
"Um...thanks?" Solaris asks in a mildly freaked out tone.
"I actually need to get going. I have business elsewhere. Could you keep an eye on Mikuya for me? I'd be very grateful if you could" Pulse says, begging somewhat.
"I...guess" Solaris says awkwardly, suddenly being made a babysitter of sorts, before seeing Pulse log out.
"So...Mikuya, want to come with us? We're going to be doing a little shopping in the city before setting out" Masaru asks in a calm tone.
Mikuya gives a nervous nod of approval.
"Let's get going, we have shopping to do, come along" Solaris says with a sigh.
"Solaris, don't scare the poor girl. Mikuya, you don't need to be scared of us, trust me" Masaru says, wanting to encourage her.
"O...Okay..." Mikuya says with a small, nervous smile.
Aincrad Standard Time: [10:30] August 2nd 2022
The trio departs to the City of Beginnings and do some shopping for weapons, armor, and general goods, when they encounter a golden yellow haired player with violet colored clothing outside a inn, with the player apparently panicking over something.
"You okay? You seem worried about something" Masaru asks worriedly.
"...I am worried, I was supposed to meet a friend of mine here, but he took off somewhere and left me behind" The golden haired player says worriedly.
"What a jerk, how could he just abandon a girl like that, let alone a friend." Solaris says angrily.
"Yeah" Mikuya says angrily, exhibiting an emotion aside from fear for the first time since Solaris and Masaru met her.
"Um, if you wouldn't mind, could I accompany you since my friend took off? I'm relatively strong in this world, my level is 6. My name here is Elena." The player, named Elena asks a little quietly.
"Hm...up to you Solaris. You're the group leader after all." Masaru says with a sigh.
"...Realistically, a team of two aren't enough for a boss, four to five should be sufficient. Fine, you can come with us Elena. Let's get back to Horunka Village after we finish shopping."
Aincrad Standard Time: [12:00] August 2nd 2022
Solaris, Masaru, Pulse, Elena, and Mikuya are in Horunka Village with three other people as nearly everyone else is training in the fields, or in the City of Beginnings. These five have been training, with the team developing surprisingly strong symbiosis despite having only recently met; Solaris hasn't been too helpful in the battles, but he helps when things get bad, Pulse's bow has been a surprising element in the formation, with the last three being effective, but standard with a longsword, 2handed sword, and a curved blade respectively.
"I gotta say Elena, you're pretty good with that sword." Masaru says casually.
"Um...thanks?" Elena says.
"Okay look, let's take a half hour to relax and deal with any outstanding business in reality, afterward, we are to return to resume training. I intend to train you four to be able to handle the boss." Solaris says emotionlessly.
"Solaris, I have to ask, why are you not fighting as often as the rest of us? You wanted us to fight all of these monsters, yet you yourself only fought three times." Pulse asks curiously and a little angrily.
"I'm an observer, it's what I do. Besides, I'm at a level where training won't help me much. I'm not into grinding at this point. Count me out" Solaris says in his usual, emotionless tone.
"Speaking of which...Solaris, how the hell are you that strong? The strongest player ought to be level 6, yet your level is double that. Start explaining" Masaru confronts him angrily.
"Maybe he doesn't want to" A voice from outside the group says casually.
"Eh? Who are you?" Pulse asks curiously.
"Kirito. I can't stand it when people gang up on a single person" Kirito says quietly.
"Thanks I guess Kirito. Look, I will admit that I may be causing you all distress. But listen, even though I'm working as an observer, you saw that I'm willing to step in when things got bad, I saved Mikuya twice during battle, same with a good number of you." Solaris states with a small sigh.
"Hm...Solaris is right, he did save our asses when we were close to death." Masaru says calmly.
"True. Very well, Solaris, we'll trust in your leadership. Truthfully, you really do seem to know a lot about this game. Mind explaining that one?" Pulse asks.
"Putting it simply...I'm very familiar with the game, I was partly responsible for creating this VRMMORPG." Solaris says emotionlessly.
"Woah...in what way?" Masaru asks in surprise.
"Classified" Solaris says very quickly, shooting down any more talk about the matter.
"Hey Kirito, would you want to join our rag-tag group? We plan on fighting the boss soon." Pulse asks him.
"You're chasing the boss the first full day of the beta? Got to respect your enthusiasm. If you're truly going for it, count me in" Kirito says rather proudly.
"What's your level? I don't exactly want to bring someone incapable of heavy combat"
"I'm level 7, I've been trying to find the dungeon actually. I intended to take it on, even if I was alone."
"Well, if you want to travel with us, fine by me." Solaris says, not caring much apparently.
Aincrad Standard Time: [15:00] August 2nd 2022
The group have returned to Horunka Village's inn, with the group having found a few rumors on the location, with them planning to meet up to determine which locations match based on their own knowledge of the field.
"What did you all find? I can write down the possibilities" Solaris states, opening a sort of note recording program.
"The rumor I found was in a valley far to the south, surrounded by mountains on three sides, near the village of Inhaven." Masaru states casually.
"Okay...next" Solaris states emotionlessly.
"There's a suspicion of it being far to the northeast, in the middle of the mountains." Elena says calmly.
"Next" Solaris says in the same tone.
"I...wasn't able to find anything...sorry" Mikuya says sadly, with Pulse nodding in sad approval.
"I got the same rumor as Elena, northeast of here." Kirito says casually.
"Okay...two out of three suggests to go northeast. The consensus is that way. Let's hire a few horses to get there quickly, if it gets too expensive, we can pool our Col." Solaris states, heading to the town stables, with the others in tow.
Aincrad Standard Time: [18:00] August 2nd 2022
The group of six have made it half-way to a settlement on the edge of the mountain pass named Tolbana Town.
"Solaris, we need to leave, it's getting late, let's get to Tolbana tomorrow. We'll march to the dungeon immediately when we return" Pulse says with a small sigh.
"Fine, you all can head out if you wish. I'm going to keep working though. I have things to do." Solaris says with a degree of anger.
Kirito, Pulse, Mikuya, and Elena log out for the night, with Masaru staying behind a little while
"Hey Solaris...you alright? You seemed a little...bummed out about us leaving" Masaru asks curiously.
"You're ridiculous...you're imagining things" Solaris says angrily.
Masaru merely sighs and says "You're not being very convincing with that whole Tsundere act. I never thought I'd meet a male who's a Tsundere, I thought that trope was exclusive to girls."
"Did you stay behind to insult me? If so, I SO do not want to deal with that right now" Solaris says angrily.
"Solaris" Masaru says before sighing a tiny bit "Look...be honest here, it's just us two here."
"You really want me to be honest...fine. I suppose I am bummed, I only really have four friends." Solaris says bluntly, and mutters quietly.
"Um...Sorry, I didn't hear that last part." Masaru says nervously.
"I don't have many friends alright?! I'm withdrawn in reality...so I have trouble making friends..." Solaris whips out angrily at the start, and mutters nervously at the end.
"So...was making friends a reason why you joined SAO?" Masaru asks curiously.
"Of course not!" Solaris states angrily.
Masaru sighs in response, saying "I need to go, later" Masaru says, logging out.
Masaru logs out, leaving Solaris all by himself, who takes this chance to remove the helmet he was leaving, causing his appearance to alter dramatically, with this masked player's all black appearance to change to a female avatar with long green hair. The system gave this mask the ability to change the appearance of the wearer while its worn, though the form it takes is always the same, which is the masked male swordsman garbed in black. Solaris digitized the mask into her NerveGear the night before, so the item exists as an item in its internal storage as well as in the game, labeled 'M492'.
"Geez...it's such a pain to maintain that facade of a male..." Solaris says with a sigh in a casual female tone. "...That Masaru character really hit me where it hurts." Solaris says with a sigh. "I suppose I ought to go. I imagine Ophelia is waiting for me" Solaris says calmly, logging out for the night.
Solaris logs out and finds four people around her: Kazuma Takara, Ophelia Takara, Airi Takara, and Makoto Kazuki. Kazuma's currently thirteen, Ophelia being twelve and a half, Airi's 11, and Makoto's 16, two years older than Solaris is.
"Evening Karen, how was Sword Art Online?" Kazuma asks casually.
"Did you just come here to ask me about the game?" Solaris asks with a small laugh.
"Um...yes and no..." Ophelia says with a nervous laugh.
"We wanted to see you Karen-nee-chan" Airi chirped rather happily.
"Yeah, you've been in that game all day, it truly must be incredible to keep someone in a game that long. Makes me wish I could've gotten into beta testing myself" Makoto says casually, in a quiet tone.
"Hehe...I suppose the game is okay, but I'm not exactly obsessed about it. I'm just trying to help a few players among the thousand beta testers." Solaris says sheepishly.
"Karen, you're lying, If you spent an entire day inside a game, it has to be freaking bad-ass. If you wouldn't mind, think we could play a little?" Kazuma states proudly and asks with a small degree of puppy dog eyes.
"Urk...damn it Kazuma...Look, if you all can exercise restraint and try to keep to my personality, I'll let you play. The players I'm working with will suspect too much if your personality is too different from mine"
"Got it" The four say in unison.
"So...which of you four wants to go first?"
The group of four deliberate between themselves when they come to a decision
"Airi will go first, followed by myself, Kazuma, and Makoto. Though, if you want to step in at any time, let us know." Ophelia says calmly.
"Sure" Solaris states calmly.
Aincrad Standard Time: [8:00] August 3rd 2022
Masaru, Pulse, Mikuya, Elena, Kirito, and Airi, taking the form of Solaris, are in proximity of the farm where they logged out the night before.
"Morning all of you" Airi says rather optimistically, with the tone of the masked warrior being what's used.
"Morning Solaris...you certainly seem more upbeat than before" Masaru says, mildly surprised.
"I admit I may have been a bit grumpy, but I was driven a tiny bit stir-crazy from all the grinding I went through the last two days" Airi chirps a little happily, trying to keep a calm tone, and she was given partial knowledge of what Solaris went through since she started playing.
"I can...imagine that happening. If you're ready, let's get going to Tolbana Town" Pulse says calmly.
Pulse, Kirito, Mikuya, and Elena depart, with Masaru consulting Solaris about the change in personality. "Solaris...you're acting really different from yesterday. What the hell?" He asks curiously.
"I don't know what you mean. I'm acting the same as I always do" Airi says calmly, losing a tiny bit of composure, from the fact this situation could be revealed.
"...It may not be fair to judge a person from a single day's experience, but you were never this...happy yesterday. I have a good feeling you're not who we think you are. Start talking" Masaru says, with remarkable perception.
"Uh...eto..." Airi says, glancing around the area nervously. "...Can you keep a secret?" Airi asks nervously.
"Sure. Shoot" Masaru says nonchalantly, placing his arms behind his back.
"Eto...to be honest, Solaris' true owner is...preoccupied elsewhere today. Because of that, I was asked to take command for a time. I hope you don't mind. Like I said...keep it secret" Airi stays, stuttering a tiny bit.
"Hmm, I could care less to be honest...just try to keep character to whoever Solaris truly is, and I'll look the other way" Masaru says with a sigh.
"Fair enough" Airi says casually.
The group converges at the area where they left the horses the night before, and set out to the northeast to reach Tolbana Town.
Aincrad Standard Time: [8:00] September 6th 2022
This group: Solaris, Masaru, Pulse, Mikuya, and Elena have become some of the best players of the closed beta and the most experienced with them being at the level cap of 30 and made it to floor 8. Kirito took off to work solo around the time of floor 3.
"Well...the beta ends today at noon. We've spent a lot of time together in this game." Pulse says with a small sigh.
"Yeah...It'll be sad to leave you all behind" Elena says with a sigh.
"Are any of you going to get the official release? We can meet up then" Solaris states calmly.
"Oh hell ya, I am so playing this game when it's officially released. I have never had so much fun in my life" Masaru states happily.
"Yeah, you guys were always kind to me, I want to meet you again after this." Mikuya says with a smile.
"The official release should be within a month or two, let's make a pledge to meet up in the City of Beginnings' main plaza when the game is released." Solaris states calmly.
Aincrad Standard Time: [8:30] November 6th 2022
The official release is out, with ten thousand players being in the game. Solaris is in the city plaza, waiting for her colleagues from the beta. Pulse and Mikuya are the first to show up, with Masaru and Elena showing up a half hour later.
"Good to see you again Masaru, Elena" Mikuya says happily.
"Likewise. I see you have your old bow Pulse, anyway...are we going to team up again like before?" Masaru asks.
"No can do sadly. You all were nice to us, but Mikuya and I need to work independently. I'm sorry, but this needs to be done, keep in touch with us though" Pulse says with a frown.
"Pulse and I both agreed to this, sorry." Mikuya says a little nervously.
"It's alright, let's exchange our contact info here. Best of luck in your future endeavors." Solaris states calmly, opening her menu to add this group to her friend list before Pulse and Mikuya depart.
"Sorry to say it, but I'm going to set out on my own as well. I feel comfortable enough doing this solo. Best of luck Masaru, Solaris" Elena says with a frown, walking away.
"So it's just me and you, eh Solaris?" Masaru asks in a slightly depressed tone.
"Sure, let's get going." Solaris says nonchalantly.
Aincrad Standard Time: [10:00] November 6th 2022
Solaris and Masaru have made it to level 5 easily because of their knowledge of the beta, with Elena, Pulse, and Mikuya meeting up with this duo outside Horunka Village by chance before they get enveloped by a bluish light.
"Wha-What's happening?!" Elena asks in utter shock since this has never happened before.
"Hell if I know!" Masaru says in surprise.
They find themselves in the City of Beginnings with every other player in the game in this plaza.
"What's going on here...?" Mikuya asks in shock.
"It must've been a forced teleport...I did get a PM from Kirito a moment ago, he said the Log out button was gone. I checked myself...and it was" Solaris says with a sigh.
"...Why...do I get the feeling we're officially going to get screwed over...?" Pulse says rather coldly.
His fears become reality when a system announcement appears over the plaza and reveals itself as Akihiko Kayaba. After declaring that he has now imprisoned everyone inside and that the only way to leave is to clear all 100 floors of Castle Aincrad, massive outrage and panic is spreading throughout the players.
"Damn you Kayaba! When I find you, I am going to end your god damn life myself!" Masaru shouts in his mind very angrily, little surprise since someone is content to screw around with ten thousand lives.
"No...No...It can't be true..." Mikuya says to herself in despair over this situation, with Pulse noticing her despair.
When he reveals that if a player loses all of their HP, they will die in both the game, and in reality, causing further panic.
"Kayaba, you crafty bastard...when my parents learn of this, your company is dead!" Solaris states angrily, since her parents: Garrett and Clara helped make Sword Art Online; they will hear of this and file lawsuits against Argus for imprisonment.
After hearing of Kayaba giving an item in everyone's inventory, just about everyone opens their inventory and spawns a single mirror, which envelops everyone in the plaza in a bright light. When the light fades, the appearances of everyone nearby changed.
Solaris' appearance is revealed to be a female teenager with long green hair, with all traces of the masked warrior being gone. Masaru is revealed to be nearly identical to his previous form but with brown hair. Elena is revealed to have black hair, gold eyes in contrast to the golden haired avatar she used. Mikuya's blonde avatar is revealed to be a young girl at about age 13 or so with long purple hair. Pulse is shown to be an adult with brown hair and green eyes.
"...Solaris? Everyone...is that you?" Masaru asks in shock at everyone's different appearances.
"Masaru? That you?" Pulse asks in shock.
The group gasps in shock when noticing the new appearances of the people they worked together with for the beta. When the avatar Akihiko used vanished, Solaris drags Masaru and Elena with her, with Pulse and Mikuya following the trio.
"Okay, look, if what Kayaba said is true, if we want to survive, we'll need to work together. We worked very well together in the beta, so why don't we group up again?" Solaris states in a casual tone, with the male voice they were used to no longer being existent.
"Hmm...sorry Solaris, but I'm going to be busy protecting Mikuya, besides, I need to ensure my own survival first." Pulse says with a frown, walking away with Mikuya in tow.
"No can do sadly, I have a certain obligation to fulfill. So I won't be able to accompany you" Elena says sadly, running off in the direction of the plaza.
"I won't abandon ya Solaris. We've been through too much already, lead the way and I'll follow" Masaru says seriously.
"Masaru...thanks..." Solaris says, before walking outside the city with Masaru in tow.
Aincrad Standard Time: [13:00] November 6th 2022
Number of deaths: 150
It's been a few hours since the Death Game began. Solaris and Masaru have reached Horunka Village and made it to level 5...though reports from the newly dubbed Monument of Life reports that one hundred and fifty players have already died to Kayaba's twisted experiment.
"..." Solaris says with a few sniffles.
"Solaris? You okay?" Masaru asks worriedly.
"...So many people are dying...this was supposed to be a fun game...not a warzone where your life is on the line..." Solaris says sadly, crying a little.
"...We can't change the past Sol...Let's play Kayaba's little game and clear Aincrad. If we work together, we'll be unstoppable." Masaru says confidently, trying to cheer up his colleague.
"...Masaru...thanks but...let's split ways here..." Solaris says sadly, walking to Horunka's Inn.
"Solaris..." Masaru says in a depressed tone, before buying another sword from the weapon shop and departing to work on his levels so he can survive.
Aincrad Standard Time: [11:00] November 12th 2022
Number of Deaths: 680
Six days have passed and the number of casualties is escalating out of control. Masaru has made it to level 8 and is trying to protect as many people as possible. He has forsaken sleep during this five day period, having only ten hours in the last five days. His desire to protect as many people as possible is bordering obsession considering the large number of close skirts he has had with death. Pulse, Elena, Kirito, Mikuya, and many others are becoming the sole beacons of light in this impenetrable darkness. Solaris has recently managed to get out of her room to fight to help everyone, with her leading a group of twenty to take on a field boss that would give everyone involved the EXP needed to take on the floor boss. Masaru learns of this from Pulse, who happens to be in Horunka Village with Mikuya.
"Wait...what did you say?!" Masaru asks Pulse worriedly.
"Solaris took a team to fight that field boss: Rakshasa." Pulse says nonchalantly.
"Oh dear god...I need to go after her!" Masaru says, activating his Sprint skill.
"Wh-Why Masaru?" Pulse asks in shock, unsure if Masaru heard him, receiving a PM a moment later.
"Pulse! That field boss killed two hundred and fifty people already! If I don't hurry, Solaris and her team will join them!"
Masaru does not stop running and makes it to Solaris' location after a half hour, to find only her and three other people alive fighting Rakshasa.
"Masaru! What are you doing here?!" Solaris asks in shock, not expecting him to be here, before seeing the rest of her team slain, to her utter dismay.
"I'm here to get you out of here! You shouldn't have been this stupid!" Masaru shouts angrily.
After this lecture, Masaru draws his sword to fight Rakshasa since it's marching toward the both of them and manages to get it to the red bar when he gets slammed by the blunt end of its massive sword and is sent flying about thirty feet.
"AHHH!" Masaru shouts as he's sent flying.
"Masaru!" Solaris shouts in fear, running toward toward him. "Why did you do that?!"
"Ugh...I did it to save you. I can't let you die in this manner..." Masaru says in pain.
"Damn it...I wish I knew how this thing could be slain!" Solaris shouts in anger.
Solaris receives a PM from the system at this point, with Solaris' honest desperate plead to save her friend.
"Do you seek the ability to become the ultimate support for the players? If you seek the power, accept my offer."
"Ultimate Support...? If I can be of help...I'll gladly accept" Solaris says proudly, accepting the offer, since this situation is getting desperate.
"Take the power of Sleuth, and use it to uncover the truth that is hidden from the eyes of mortals."
Solaris glances at the field boss: Rakshasa and sees a menu full of statistics, strengths, and weaknesses.
"The weaknesses of Rakshasa are its legs...after it's knocked down, a horizontal slash through its head will kill it. No wonder why it was unkillable...to my knowledge, no one tried such a combination..." Solaris says quietly, analyzing the information on Rakshasa. "Masaru! Perform two vertical slashes on the legs, then go for the head!" Solaris shouts with pride and fear.
"What the hell? How is that going to help?!" Masaru asks in obvious disbelief.
"Do it!" Solaris states angrily.
"Damn it...fine!" Masaru growls, charging toward Rakshasa and following the suggestion Solaris voiced, performing two vertical slashes on the legs causing the creature to fall to its knees, with Masaru following suite with his most powerful vertical slash on Rakshasa's head, inflicting an automatic critical hit, causing the creature to perish.
"Way to go...Mas...aru" Solaris say, before collapsing from exhaustion.
"Solaris!" Masaru says in shock, rushing to her side.
Masaru runs toward Solaris to see if she's okay, since she collapsed so suddenly.
"Solaris, you okay?!"
"Ugh...don't shout...it's giving me a headache" Solaris says weakly, with her ears ringing.
"Right...I need to ask...how did you know how to fight that thing?" Masaru asks curiously.
"...Beats me..." Solaris says weakly.
"Come on...let's get back to Horunka. We both need rest..." Masaru says, shaking from the fact his adrenaline is leaving him.
"Masaru! Solaris! Thank god I made it in time" Pulse says with a small pant.
"Pulse! What are you doing here?" Masaru asks in surprise.
"When you took off on me, I got concerned, I gathered the players in Horunka and marched them here to help you all. Though...I saw Mikuya's parents go with you...what happened to them?" Pulse says quietly, and asks curiously.
Masaru and Solaris lower their heads, since the entire team Solaris went with got wiped out by Rakshasa.
"Mikuya...um..." Masaru says rather awkwardly.
"Mikuya...I'm...sorry but...they're no longer...around" Solaris says with a frown, looking down in shame, crying as well.
"My...parents...you...you...How could you?!" Mikuya says in despair, drawing her curved blade and charging toward Solaris, but is stopped because of an arrow in her foot paralyzing her, and dealing a degree of pain. "P-Pulse?! Why are you defending her?! She killed my parents!" Mikuya says, whipping out in anger.
"Mikuya...killing this girl will not bring your parents back..." Pulse says coldly, putting away his bow.
My parents deserve vengeance!" Mikuya says in anger, desperately trying to get free.
"Give up Mikuya, that arrow will keep you paralyzed until I decide to free you." Pulse says quietly.
"Look, they actually told me that they had a daughter trapped in this game, and I tried to tell them to stay behind for her sake, but they refused and gave me this crystal, and to give it to their daughter if I ever see her. Here..." Solaris says quietly, passing the crystal to Mikuya, who then activates it.
"Mikuya...if you're watching this, we are no longer among the living. We're truly sorry about leaving you behind in this world, but understand that we were willing to sacrifice our lives in order to keep you safe. Mikuya...live on and become a far better person than the both of us. We've chosen to put our faith in a young girl named Solaris, as we've seen her skill at leading others during the beta and it is a remarkable gift for one so young. If we do perish in battle against Rakshasa, do not hold any anger toward her, since she herself repeatedly tried getting us to stay behind, but we forced the issue. Pulse, if you're watching this, we're leaving you in charge of Mikuya's safety and well-bringing. We know you can be trusted to keep her alive in this chaotic world. Goodbye Haruka...our beloved daughter..."
"I...I..." Mikuya tries to say, before breaking down in tears.
"Mikuya, either way...I am truly sorry about all this..." Solaris says with a tear in her eye.
"You truly did try to tell them to go back?" Mikuya asks her with tears running down her face.
"Of course...they forced my hand and brought them with me at their solemn request...I never wanted to break up a family..." Solaris says seriously and sadly.
"I...see..." Mikuya says with a frown.
"Come along everyone, let's get back to Horunka Village." Pulse says, pulling out the arrow he shot at Mikuya to keep her paralyzed, and then keeping his Ebony Bow at hand as he leads the group back to town.
Aincrad Standard Time: [12:30] November 12th 2022
Number of Deaths: 730
Masaru and Solaris are in a shared inn room to lower expenses since the amount of Col they both have is relatively low
"Solaris, are you alright? You've had me worried since we split ways back on the 5th..." Masaru asks worriedly.
"...I was only recently able to get over all the deaths from the first couple of days...And now I've caused the death of a large team..." Solaris says, crying somewhat.
"It's alright Sol, everything's gonna be fine" Masaru says, trying to console her. "Anyway...if you feel any better, could you explain how you know how to defeat Rakshasa?"
"...I don't know...it just...happened" Solaris says, laying down on her bed.
"Maybe I could find out, mind if I inspect your window?" Masaru says, possibly crossing the line as such things are very personal.
"Eh...sure" Solaris says, opening her menu, going to the setting tab and allowing Masaru to see her skills, items, and everything else.
After a minute of surveillance passes
"Hey...where'd you get that new skill?" Masaru asks curiously.
"New skill?" Solaris asks curiously, opening her skill list and noticing a new unique skill: Sleuth. "Strange...how'd I get this one?" Solaris says in mild shock having forgotten about the whole thing from the chaos, opening the skill description for this...Sleuth.
A menu appears in front of Solaris with the following text:
"Sleuth: Sleuth allows you to fully analyze any monster or player's strengths, weaknesses, levels, and statistics, thus allowing you to uncover the perfect way to defeat any enemy. Be cautious, for the Unique Skill drains you of all your energy upon successful activation and analysis of the opponent."
"Wow...what a useful skill, but...the drawback is so nasty" Masaru says in surprise.
"Hmm...Masaru..." Solaris tries to say, though she's still pretty exhausted.
"Let me guess, you want me to keep this whole Unique Skill thing private huh?" Masaru says calmly.
Solaris nods in approval, not having the energy to talk much.
"Got it...I should get back to..." Masaru says, before collapsing.
"Masaru...damn it!" Solaris says in concern, trying to get out of bed but is still in bad shape from the fight with Rakshasa.
After ten minutes pass, the two of them are resting on their beds.
"Why were you exhausted Masaru?"
"Truth be told...I've barely slept since we split ways, been too focused on protecting people."
"That kind of attitude is gonna get you killed, you know that right?" Solaris says with a small sarcastic laugh
"Perhaps. But another friend of mine from the beta died while the two of us were apart...she made me swear that I'd protect everyone"
"I see, but look Masaru, if you truly want to protect people, you need to care for yourself first. Depriving yourself of sleep will hurt more than help..."
"Yeah...I know..."
Aincrad Standard Time: [12:00] November 25th 2022
Number of Deaths: 2000
Masaru's POV:
The last couple of weeks have been exhausting for everyone. The number of deaths have claimed a fifth of all ten thousand of the players. I knew a good amount of those poor bastards from the beta...I can't believe these people are gone for good. Kayaba has become one sadistic SOB for causing all of these deaths. As much as I want to end that bastard's life permanently, to make him suffer like the two thousand dead...Solaris has tempered my attitude and helped me realize how I'd be able to help people in a more efficient way. We've found the dungeon five days ago and have been surveying it as much as possible. Pulse and Mikuya have withdrawn from active service for a while now, because of Pulse's new responsibility to protect Mikuya from the dangers of this world. We haven't been able to find Kirito at all, but we asked Pulse and Mikuya to check the Monument of Life, and thankfully, he's not among the two thousand dead.
Solaris told me she doesn't plan on going through the dungeon. She told me that she plans to just focus her skills to guide players as safely as possible so we have battle-trained fighters ready and willing when we make it to floor 2. I'm fighting on my own in the dungeon, and have recently made it to level 12, the level Solaris was at in the beta on this floor when I met her.
"You there, I want to talk to you" I hear the voice say, not far from here, noticing a blue haired player.
"Why the hell would I want to talk with you?" I ask rather bluntly.
"My my, you're quite hostile, aren't you" The blue haired male says confidently.
"...I'm not always like this, I've lost too many freaking friends to this god damn game. I'm just pissed..." I say angrily, and a tiny bit apologetically.
"You're Masaru correct? My name's Diabel, I've been noticing your skills in battle, I plan on launching an expedition against the boss of this floor soon, I could really use your help" Diabel says calmly.
"What makes you think you have a chance? I've seen the capabilities of that boss before, it's nothing to laugh at." I say bluntly.
"So...you're a beta tester, interesting, I thought they all died." Diabel says laughingly, in an egotistic manner.
"Don't push me...I have no problem with slitting your damn throat right now." I say very angrily, drawing my Anneal Blade. The fact this guy is insulting the beta testers is pissing me off to unimaginable levels.
"Temper Temper." Diabel says with a small laugh. "But to all seriousness, I need all of the best players I can get. Joining me will ensure that we will clear this game and free everyone" Diabel says seriously.
"Fine...You seem to have a fire, though there is only one person I would even consider following without any questions asked. And she is not even around" I say quietly, referencing the girl I consider my friend: Solaris.
"Let's go." Diabel says to me, directing me to follow his group further in.
Aincrad Standard Time: [9:00] December 2nd 2022
Because of Diabel's help, we've found the boss room for floor 1, and we're mobilized our best forty four players, though Solaris, Mikuya, and familiar faces I've come to know aren't here with us. However, I do recognize Kirito, Pulse, Diabel, and Kibaou among the crowd. But...god do I HATE Kibaou... The meeting doesn't start for another hour, so I meet up with Kirito before the meeting to try to catch up.
"Kirito, good to see you again"
"Masaru, I'm surprised to see you here. But then again, I should've seen it coming, with your knowledge of the Beta."
"Yeah. Diabel recruited me while I was in the dungeon. He was able to goad me into helping him"
"You know Masaru, you always seem to be following someone, do you ever act independently? I haven't seen you taking initiative once." Kirito asks curiously.
"I'm new to the whole MMO thing, besides I'm not a leader, I'm more suited to the 'follower' thing."
"Masaru? Is that you?"
"Huh?" Masaru says, looking around to find the voice.
He sees Elena running toward him and Kirito
"Masaru, it's been a long time"
"Elena, been a while. How have you been?" Masaru asks curiously.
"Awful as hell...I've gone through so much this month...I've seen two hundred people die in front of me..." Elena says in a depressed tone.
"Oh...I can relate Elena...why I've been able to survive when so many have died haunts me"
"I see. Hey Masaru, how are Pulse, Mikuya, and Solaris doing?"
"Solaris told me she didn't want to help much with this dungeon. And Pulse is helping Mikuya survive by getting her into this new guild called the Aincrad Liberation Force. I'm not anticipating either of them to assist us for a while."
"I see..." Elena says sadly.
"That's where you're wrong Masaru" Solaris says proudly, sneaking up on him. Kirito noticed Solaris but kept quiet since Solaris silently requested it, with Pulse walking calmly to the group.
"Wah! Solaris! Not cool!" Masaru shouts angrily, after jumping five feet.
"Beg to differ" Solaris says with a laugh.
"What the hell are you doing here anyway? You told me you had no intention of dealing with the dungeon on this floor."
Solaris sighs and says "A guy named Diabel goaded me into it. He saw me during a battle and he more or less conscripted me. He told me he was looking for someone good with strategies."
"I see, so Diabel got to you too. Oh well, I'm just glad there's another person I know here" Masaru says with a smile.
"Likewise. I need to meet with Diabel, he actually asked for you and Kirito alongside myself specifically to meet in the Surveyor Inn."
"What for?" Masaru and Kirito asks in unison.
"No clue, he only said it was mandatory."
Aincrad Standard Time: [9:30] December 2nd 2022
Solaris, Masaru, Kirito, and a male player with spiky sienna hair are in the inn at Diabel's request.
"Ah, good, you're all here. I wanted to inform you four of two things." Diabel says proudly.
"What would that be?" Kirito asks curiously.
"First. I've been watching your skills and power in battle, alongside your personalities. I have chosen you four to become field leaders, who will aid me in leading the frontliners. Masaru, your skill in battle and adaptability will be a great asset. Kirito, you're quick on your feet and possess strong power to back it up, you'll make a big difference helping us. Solaris, you're a bright young girl, and talented with strategies, you will be very helpful to us. Kibaou's strength will be helpful for us as well."
The four of them smile at this various praise
"Second, I've decided on assignments somewhat. I gathered forty players including you four, I'm dividing them into three different types: Groups A and B are Tanks, C through E will be Assault parties, while F and G are long range support."
"Solaris, I want you to lead group G and synchronize with group F. Kibaou will be leading Group E as rear support. I will be leading Group C. Masaru, I want you to lead group D. Kirito, feel free to join any group you wish."
"...You make it seem I'm not welcome..." Kirito says with a small sigh.
"I'm giving you freedom to choose which team to be in. Simple as that" Diabel says calmly.
Aincrad Standard Time: [15:00] December 4th 2022
Solaris and her friends outside the boss chamber with all forty four members of this special raid group assembled by Diabel.
"Solaris, I'll leave you in charge of laying out the strategy to everyone" Diabel says to Solaris calmly.
"Got it..." Solaris mutters in nervousness, since she's never been good with speeches "Alright everyone, the plan is simple. A and B groups are to keep Illfang's attention on them, C and D groups are to focus on dealing as much damage on Illfang as possible. E Group is to concentrate on keeping any rear guard familiars from attacking Groups A through D. F and G groups will be providing long range support during this fight. Do not stray from your assigned roles, keep your HP from lowering beyond forty five percent, and we should be able to win without suffering any casualties!" Solaris states proudly, subconsciously gaining a great deal of pride.
After Solaris gave this speech, everyone of the group roared in happiness, with morale raising in all of them.
"Woah...how did I pull off such an inspirational speech?!"
"Way to go Solaris. I knew you could do it" Masaru whispers with a smile.
Solaris develops a mild blush and whispers "T-Thanks..."
"Don't mention it. Someone has to keep you from looking like an idiot and mess up" Masaru says with a laugh.
"Grr..." Solaris growls before stomping on his foot, hard.
"OW! That was uncalled for! I was making a joke!" Masaru growls with a hint of anger.
"Not funny jackass" Solaris growls angrily, clearly pissed off.
"Lesson learned...don't joke around you..."
Aincrad Standard Time: [18:00] December 4th 2022
After three strenuous hours of fighting Illfang, they have succeeded, but they lost Diabel, our leader in this fight. They're trying to lick our wounds in this fight when Kibaou, the leader of Group E starts getting pissed off at Kirito because of his status as a beta tester of SAO. A good number of the players here are beginning to label him with a portmanteau: Beater.
"You hid the fact Illfang used a No-Dachi didn't you?!" Kibaou shouts angrily at Kirito.
"Back off you bastard! You leave my friend alone!" Masaru shouts angrily, shoving Kibaou three feet.
"You're friends with this beater?" Kibaou demands angrily.
"So I am, you slimy bastard, and trust me when I say Diabel told me in strict confidence that if he perished, I would take command of the clearers. If any, ANY, of you have problems with working with three beaters, LEAVE NOW. I will not allow anyone who will not accept my orders to be among the frontliners." Solaris states very angrily.
"..." A few of the clearers growl in response.
"Good, now fall in line! I will not allow insubordination, from ANYONE." Solaris states angrily.
Masaru, Elena, and Pulse approach Solaris a little fearfully over her change of personality.
"Hey...Sol, you sure this is alright? You are fanning a lot of heavy flames here..." Pulse asks worriedly.
"I don't care. I will have order among the frontliners, if we're going to clear this game, we must have rigid discipline, from EVERYONE." Solaris states emotionlessly.
"...You're starting to scare me Solaris" Masaru utters nervously.
"You know, I think I like this 'new' Solaris. She's serious and not afraid to put her foot down. She's someone we need at our core. Although Diabel will be missed, we must change with the times, and perhaps Solaris is who we need." Elena says calmly, with a mild smile.
"...Maybe you're right Elena. Solaris, this new attitude of yours terrifies me to no end, but I'll follow your orders. You have my support" Pulse says with a small bow.
"I won't go against our friendship and try to back-stab you Sol. I am your friend, and I will stand by your side unless I am forced into a situation where my life is at risk" Masaru states calmly, with Solaris staring at him with a single eye, seemingly saying 'Um...think about our environment' "...Wait...let me rephrase that. I'm speaking of where you're intentionally sending me to a place where I'll die no matter what."
"Good. Masaru, I'm making you my 2nd in command." Solaris states emotionlessly, going up to floor 2.
"mmm...even if it gave me a promotion...I'm nervous of this 'new' Solaris..."
"Masaru, let me offer a piece of advice: Them's the breaks kid. Look, stick with Solaris, she may very well be who we need to survive in this world. She's your friend so she'll show you leniency."
"I...pray so..." Masaru mutters under his breath, before departing to floor 2.
Aincrad Standard Time: [18:45] December 4th 2022
Masaru found Solaris in a nearby inn, so they check into a single, large room again.
"Hey...Sol, I wanted to ask about-" Masaru tries to ask before being lightly tackled by Solaris out sadness. "Solaris?!" Masaru is surprised that Solaris suddenly did that.
"...That speech and battle terrified me to no end, especially with how I was forced to act at the end...the only time I was that scared in this 'game' was during Rakshasa..."
"Solaris..." Masaru says sadly, accepting the light embrace with her fear being the driving emotion.
"...I know I'm supposed to appear strong... but at times, I need to let loose like this..." Solaris says while crying a little.
"Go ahead, I certainly have no intention of judging you harshly just because of this. You'd need to outright abandon me to death for me to hate you...which would become a moot point since I wouldn't be around to hate you" Masaru says seriously, with a tiny joke at the end.
"...Thank you...I could only imagine people would abandon the girl in cases like this..." Solaris says with a few sniffles.
"I would never do such a thing. Trust me when I say that people who would do that is among the lowest of scum" Masaru says solemnly.
"...Masaru...arigatou gozaimasu..." Solaris says, still crying onto Masaru's shoulders.
"Don't mention it, friends should always stick together. I consider you the best friend I've ever met through this world. I will make sure you and I survive, that...is a promise"
"M...Masaru...Arigatou...this...this is the first time I've been able to let out all this sadness...I have not cried once since the time with Rakshasa"
"You...you've been keeping in all that pain and sadness?" Masaru asks worriedly.
"Yeah...I always had to appear strong in front of everyone and I seldom had private time, so I was never able to let go..."
"Solaris, let's make a deal. If you ever need a shoulder to cry on or anything, send me a call and I'll come help you. Friends should never have to suffer alone." Masaru says calmly, lightly rubbing Solaris' head.
"...Okay...deal..." Solaris says quietly, before stepping back somewhat and wiping her eyes. "Thanks Masaru" Solaris says, trying to be optimistic now. "Eh...d-don't think I'm...into you or anything" Solaris says, suddenly becoming self-conscious of what she just did, panicking somewhat.
"Chill, look...don't take this the wrong way but I'm not looking for a girlfriend or...ingame wife. At the bare minimal, I simply want to be friends."
"Oh thank goodness..." Solaris says, sighing in relief, before laying down in her bed.
"You're not mad? I thought girls would be angry or something from my response." Masaru says in surprise, going to lay down in his bed.
"I won't speak for all girls, but I think it's typically when they ask a guy out and he turns them down that they get mad with that response." Solaris says, somewhat unsure of herself, having never thought of it before.
"Oh...but you sound...uncertain" Masaru asks, hoping he doesn't annoy her.
"Yeah...I've never contemplated it before..." Solaris says quietly.
"Hehe...so we're both clueless on how girls act?" Masaru asks, half-jokingly.
"Hehe...more or less, girls are complex, even to other girls. Though the same can be said of guys." Solaris says laughingly.
"Heh, true"