Yuji

Floor 5.

The one place where one would not go unless they really have important matters to attend here. Even then, one would finish their business here as soon as possible and leave this floor at once. The town here are full of NPCs but players is a rarity. Well, that was to be expected.

After all, who would want to go on a hot and humid place like this floor. The sun sets high on top of your head and felt closer than usual. The day felt longer than usual  and the blazing ray of scorching sun raises the temperature of this whole place as if one step on fire itself. But there's a place for that too, a town on top of a volcano as a matter of fact but it is situated on a floor higher than this. But that's a story for another time. The main point here is this floor have crazy weather and not suited for any social activities.

Removing my battle equipment, I opted for something that would last me longer in this harsh environments. Wearing lighter clothes; a black tank top and brown loose pant would improve my body condition. I make my way to the town gate to meet with someone who have a task for me.

Quest accepted. Solo.

<QUEST COMPLETE>

Quest Reward:

ID# 48245 (LD:15)

25*15= 375 col

Overall Rewards

1275 col (boss+thread+quest)

3 materials

2 SP (Thread+Quest)

The journey back was uneventful, which is great. A monster at this time is not so great considering their conditions. Careful as to not to bump his head on the low ceiling, he finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. "Look, we almost tere. Ceer up now okay." Hand in hand, Yuji match his speed to be the same as the girl. 

Finally outside, the starless night greets them. The full moon become their source of light, showing te path towards the city. His work is not yet over, he still need to protect this girl from the danger outside. Still, the light outside is something to be grateful for. The darkness in the cave is not something he really enjoyed.

They walk on the path that leads to city silently. Yuji keeps watch of the surrounding, avoiding some monster who nearly got close to them. The silence was calming, which is what both of them need right now. The nigth wind that blows cools him, he feel like humming an anime song.

After another uneventful journey back to the city they finally arrived. Opening his HUD, he read the notes where he write; it contians the address of her house. Checking the location with the map and finally marking it down, he begin his last task. It really wasn't that far from the gate, although they need to reach the area through some alleys and small roads before reaching it.

Finally arrived, the child let go of his hand and run inside the house. Yuji ty to warn her not to rush, but gave up as he knows that she would not listen either way due to her joy in returning. After greeting them from outside, he enter the small house. Inside, the two people hug each other as their tears fall to the wooden floor. Yuji watch the scene silently, his mind wander far back to his home. Nevertheless, he felt happy that he could fulfilled his promise to the mother.

After they calmed down, the mother told her to clean up. Obeying it, the girl went inside a room and close the door behind her. The mother would then apporach Yuji wit her face beaming. "Thank you for saving my daughter! It may not be much but please accept this col."

Yuji try to deny her offer, saying that it wasnothing and he did not do it for money. However, the mother would not stop before he accept it. Finally after some persuading, Yuji finally accept it with a thanks. Before he leave, the girl came out and say her thanks to Yuji. Smiling, he pulled her cheeks and pat her heads after that.

"Take care of yourself, ok? Promise me you won't go outside the city again." The girl gave him her promised. Satisfied, Yuji leave the area and make his way towards the town warp as the family of two waves at him.

"Time to sleep...Teleport, Floor 4." 

ID# 48242

LD: 11-1

He returns his sword to its scabbard, having ended he fight, He would then search around the room for any treasure chest or something interesting. All he did found is rocks...and more rocks. Nothing interesting in his findings, he goes to where the child hides. 

She sits there, hugging her knees while hiding her face. Sniffles andsobbings can be heard, but it was so quiet one needs to strain their ears or go closer to her to actually hear it. Yuji take out his spare cloaks from his inventory and wrap it around the child in hopes that it will warm her a little.

"Let's go back to your mother, shall we. Come now, I'll hold your hand so you don't have to be afraid. With me here, no one will hurt you." The girl lift her face; her cheeks wet of tears and her eyes are a little bit red from the constant crying. She nod weakly as she raise up. Taking the hands Yuji was offering, together they both make their way towards the exit.

ID# 48241 

BD: 5+2-1  CD: 11 (Recover 3 energy)  LD: 20-1   MD: 8

Feeling confident, Yuji prepare himself for one last attack. This time, he can land the finishing blow without any problem as he set out his next move in his head. All he need to do is risk himself once more, like what he did earlier to deal damage. In fact, that's all he can do but he won't complain much if he could win.

This time, he covers his face with his sword as it was the only vital part that doesn't have armor. Bracing himself for the upcoming attack proves to be helpful, he manages to avoid any damage to any vital organ. As the bat begins its retreat upward once more, Yuji grabs its wing and hold the bat and slam it forcefully on the floor of the cavern. Activating his Sword Arts <Snake Bite>, he flings his wrist as his sword seeks out its target. Delivering two hits in succession, the boss finally has its health went down to zero.

"Phew, that was a long fight...."

Yuji: 63/72 HP  4/18 Energy

Giant Bat #2: 0/50 HP  7(2*1)= 14-9= 5 damage   (Gain 5*50=250 col + 2 mats)

ID# 48028

BD: 7+2-1  CD: 9  MD: 8

His sword covered in blue, bright light. As Yuji lowered himself, the bat once more use its ability to fly and use its claws to hurt him. Attacking him again and again, he grit his teeth and resist the attack with the help of his armor. The wait was worth it, the bat begin its retreat upward as it finished attacking...

In which Yuji use that opportunity to land another attack. Quickly he stab forward, the sword went towards the bat. Using the Sword Arts <Vorpal Strike>, Yuji thrust deep at the bat and leap forward past the bat thanks to the skill motion. Using the sword skill in short range was not a very good idea.

 But it was worth it. The damage dealt quickly reduce the boss HP to danger zone.

Yuji: 63/72 HP  4/18 Energy

Giant Bat #2: 5/50 HP  7(1*5)= 35-9= 26 damage

ID# 48027

BD: 3+2-1  CD: 9  MD: 9

Having no time to catch his breath, Yuji stand still on the ground as he try to regain his focus. He look to the huge rock where the child is hiding; she's trying her best from not making any sounds, that or she is paralyzed from fear and if she does, he prayed that she could hold a little bit longer.

Steeling himself, he renewed his determination with a punch on his face. As the bat dive towards him as he does this, Yuji defend his face using his sword, covering his vital point. Again, the bat rains flurry of claws towards him, this time he could not fend off all the attack.

However, he smiled as he saw the openings here and there created when the bat use this attack. As soon as the attack is over, Yuji quickly lower himself once again but this time his swords begin to glow.

Yuji: 63/72 HP  9/18 Energy

Giant Bat #2: 31/50 HP  

ID# 48026

BD: 3+2-1  CD: 7  MD: 3

He lowered himself to kneeling position, focusing his energy on the feet. Taking a deep breath, Yuji jump up as high as his stats could allow him, which is enough to reach the bat once more. This time the bat is prepared for his maneuver as it rush towards Yuji in an attempt to tackle him to the ground.

"I won't go down that easily!" Yuji swing his sword at the same time as the bat begin its tackle. Steel meets sharp claws, sparks fly out as their attack canceled each other. Stumbling, Yuji fell to the ground and this time he is unable to land properly. He rub his back as he fell bottom first, while the bat recover easily thanks to its ability to fly.

Yuji: 64/72 HP  9/18 Energy

Giant Bat #2: 31/50 HP  

ID# 48025

BD: 4+2-1  CD: 6  MD: 5

From above, the bat rain flurries of claw upon Yuji, in which he manage to deflect some of the attacks. Those that he could not deflect in time with his sword, he would dodge it instead by ducking or rolling on the cold floor. Able to avoid from getting damaged this time, Yuji begin his counterattack.

While the bat lowered its altitude, Yuji jump towards the bat, barely reaching the height where the bat is flying. Taking it off guard, Yuji slash vertically. However, due to him descending the attack did not reach the bat and Yuji land on the floor. He lowered himself, preparing himself for another jump.

Yuji: 64/72 HP  9/18 Energy

Giant Bat #2: 31/50 HP  

ID# 48024

BD: 3+2-1  CD: 10 (Recover 3 energy)  MD: 9

Entering cooldown period this time, once again Yuji's movement got restricted. This skill is a double-edged sword indeed, being unable to move for a period of time for the price of stronger and flashier attacks. Stronger skills equals to longer delay. As he use a lower rank Sword Arts, he should be able to move after several seconds.

That window of time is more than enough for anyone to land a hit in fight against someone, though. Yuji receive the full brunt from the bat as he got attack ferociously with claws and bites. Free from delay, he swing his sword on the bat which the bat response by quickly flying upwards and out of reach.

Yuji: 64/72 HP  9/18 Energy

Giant Bat #2: 31/50 HP  

ID# 48023

BD: 5+2-1  CD:4  MD: 8

Yuji assess his surroundings, looking for any hidden enemies lurking. Although with limited visibility he could not see far into the dark. He could not sense any hostile presence except for the second boss, therefore there will be no case of any ambush. With his hands full on fighting this bat, he could not rush towards the girl if she got attacked by another monster.

Seeing the boss readying itself for its attack, Yuji rush forward to attack the bat. Activating his Sword Arts <Vertical Arc>, he raise his swords high as he enters the skill motion. During that time, the bat manage to land another attack on him, but Yuji stood his ground so that the skill would not get cancelled.

Fully resisting the attack, Yuji swing down his sword at the fully exposed bat, tracing a V pattern in the air as he activate the skill. The red scars formed on the bat, its HP reduced greatly from the attack.

Yuji: 65/72 HP  4/18 Energy

Giant Bat #2: 31/50 HP  7(2*2)=28-9=19 Damage

ID# 48022

BD: 1+2-1  CD: 8  MD: 4

Finally free from the system restriction, Yuji duck as the bat fly at him for another attempt at attacking. Barely dodging it in time, he retaliates by stabbing upward right when the bat is flying past him. A little off on his timing, the bat manage to soar up before he could stab it. Quickly he assumes his original stance, preparing for his next moves.

Yuji: 66/72 HP  8/18 Energy

Giant Bat #2: 50/50 HP

Another mug gone, I lost count of how many I had been drinking. The world spins, I could see stars. From fr, I could see Philia coming inside the tavern and quickly make her way towards the girl. Good, she have company. Now I don't have to play guardian. I drink to my heart's contend, letting this alcohol enter my body. Looks like I won't be able to wake up properly tomorrow tonight. "One more......"

-Yuji knock out for now-

The girl woke up abruptly when I interrupt her, but only for a moment before she fall asleep, again. I scratch the back of my head, confused as to what to do. I could let her sleep but if she stay like this she will be thrown outside when the tavern close down. People with...bad intentions lingers outside when night falls and wandering outside during that time is not a good idea. Taking a closer look on her, she really IS young to be playing this game. I thought there's age restriction or something when acquiring the Nervegear.... although the look on her face betrays her childlike innocence from behind. How to say this...she seems like she suffers a lot.

Well, if she won't wake up then I guess I will just watch her from far. I really don't want to interrupt her, but I don't want anything bad happen to her either. With my drinks already set, I take the glass and sit back on my chair. "Today is a super baaaaaad day, so let tomorrow's me worry about my today's problem. For that, sorry, future me. But I don't intend to hold back on my alcohol today." I probably look crazy, but eh, whatever. I empty the glass in one go and place another order.

Let's just hope that I could get drunk quickly and get out of this tavern without any trouble.

As I was contemplating the rich, creamy taste of hot milk in my mouth, a muscular man decided to take his seat next to me. To describe him in one sentence, that would be 'strong'. His presence is imposing, and I could not enjoy this drink I'm having. Why would this guy decided to sit next to me is beyond my knowledge. Well this is a tavern and you are free t choose wherever you want to sit and no one could stop but I'm really not in the mood to talk with anyone, especially someone who looks like a strong person. I try my best not to be bothered by him and continue my own business.

Sitting next to him, I could not help but overhead his conversation with the bartender. Placing orders for rations, and in huge amount. This guy loves to go outside, huh. But then again, who would replenish their provisions in the tavern. Probably he's not a regular in this tavern to do so. Whatever, it is none of my business to comment on that. I have my own supplies issues to solve. Stirring the steamy mug of milk with the spoon, I took a glance around the tavern; more people in the tavern now, and all of them are new faces. Of course, being a new player they bring this kind of depressing aura they carry around. Could not be helped, they will face difficulties, and even more when they step up in this prison called SAO. I silently pray for them to be able face these obstacles they facing with steel heart, muttering sorry at the same time for not being able to help them.

As I was about to take the last sip from my mug, it's there, that overwhelmingly pressure. Who forgot to turn off their superiority and powerful aura in this tavern? The glass hangs in midair, unable to reach the lips of my mouth. I put down the mug, shaking off my nervousness. Whoever that person is behind me, they really must have been bored for coming here and further spoil my mood. I turn around, noticing that the pink haired girl already disappear. Quick as a cat she is, probably running away from this powerful guy.

Looking at the entrance, this 'powerful' person stands there, arrogantly. I laughed softly, mocking myself for not being able to guess who that person is. Who else could act high and mighty besides this guy. The atmosphere inside the tavern went down. Only soft mutters and whispers could be heard, probably talking about that person. Zelrius is his name, the frontliner that have cleared floors after floors. Yes, this person is the strongest player (currently known) in this game. Him achieving high level in short time is an amazing feat, however his attitude could be mend a little. Well, at lest everyone is grateful for his effort in getting them out of this game faster...but still.....

"-Sigh- There goes my so called attempt to improve my mood." At this point, I could not even be bothered to enjoy my drink. Whatever, I just drunk myself then. "Bartender, give me something that would knock me out instantly." The bartender gave me a nod, and I just laid back at this chair. The pink haired, small girl is still here but fell asleep. It's good to be ignorance of the current situation though...one could enjoy to the fullest without being bothered by someone else. I walk to her and give her a gentle push. "Oooooi, wake up girl. Don't sleep here, you don't want to get thrown out of this tavern now."

ID# 48021

BD: 1+2-1  CD: 10 (Recover 3 energy)  MD: 9

Having defeated the first boss, Yuji can calm down a little. Still, the fight is not over. Also, there is also one more problem he currently facing at this moment. Using two sword skill at once puts a heavy burden on him, restriction speaking. And so he stand there motionless, unable to make a single movement. Even wit the sound of the second boss slowly coming at him, he could not react to it. And so he receive another claw marks, this time the boss did not hold back on doing so.

Yuji: 66/72 HP  8/18 Energy

Giant Bat #2: 50/50 HP

ID# 48020

BD: 6+2-1  CD: 7  LD: 13-1  MD: 1

With the first bat out of action, the fight becomes easier to handle. The second bat rush at him, but Yuji dodge right before the bat could ram him by quickly jumping to the right. Instead of hitting him, the bat went crashing down to the floor instead. Yuji run forward, aiming for the first bat. The bat is a bit far from where he is though. "No choice then." He press his left foot to the ground, his sword begin to glow bright blue. Kicking the ground, he zooms forward at incredible speed. Sword Arts <Sonic Leap> being unleashed, he leaps at the first enemy and lands the finishing blow before the bat could wake up from fainting.

Yuji: 67/72 HP  6/18 Energy

Giant Bat #1: 0/50 HP   7(1*3)=21-9=12 damage   (Gain 5*50= 250 col + 1mats)

Giant Bat #2: 50/50 HP

ID# 48019

BD: 10+2-1  CD: 12 (Recover 3 energy)  MD: 6

He direct his gaze for a moment at the girl, checking whether she's alright or not. In that moment, with a quick movement the bat begin its moves by catching him off-guard during the time he direct his attention elsewhere. Unable to block the attack, he receive another claw mark from the 2 bat. Slowly anger and frustration swelling inside him begin to shows in his face. Angered at his attacks not landing, frustrated that a simple fight takes so long to finish.

"Haaaaaah!" With a deft handling on his sword, he trace the shape of a star on the nearest bat who is unfortunate to go near him. His sword glows bright, the final slash blow away the bat across the room and send it slamming against the wall. Sword Arts <Star Quint Prominence>, a strong sword art but have longer cooldown. Still, it worth the risk considering how it landed beautifully on the boss.

Yuji: 67/72 HP  9/18 Energy

Giant Bat #1: 5/50 HP  (7+2)=9(3*2)=54-9=45 damage

Giant Bat #2: 50/50 HP

(OOC: Rest, rest~ Miniboss incoming: 5 post)

"Man, what's wrong with me. I can't even land a killing blow properly." Yuji was ashamed of himself because he can't fight properly. He can only rub the back of his head, feeling embarrassed because Philia laugh at him. After this, he'll need to train himself more. He sheathes his sword and sits on the grass, tired of the continuous fights. "I'm surprised, you fight like you have some sort of experience, girl. And you, new guy...what's your name? Having you join the fight really help us, thanks." 

"If I had more money, I would splurge myself a little bit more...-sigh-" Having check the amount of col I have left on me, I close the menu and lets out a long sigh. A meager 1000 col, with that amount of col I could not buy the supplies I wanted. And to think that I have more grinding to be done later. 

"Might as well spend whatever I have left on the tavern, since I'm here."

With players and NPCs talking everywhere, the town never seems to rest even at night. Accompanied by sounds of shopkeepers attracting their customers and cheers of people who just returned from their bountiful quest, the atmosphere at the Town of Beginning is cheerful. Smiles everywhere that sets the heart at ease, anyone would forget their worries just by being here. I'm not an exception to that situation either.

Except that this amount of col I have on me really puts a damper on my mood right now. If only this town weren't like this I would probably go on a rampage outside this city.

Having enough of looking around, I remove my battle equipment; the sword, necklace and my armor. Switching to a regular outfit; a red, short sleeves t-shirt and brown leather pants. Adorning my black cloak as the finisher, this so called regular outfit is what I mainly used when I hang out in the city. Of course, I spent most of the time outside the safe zone, but that is a story for another time.

I set my walking pace slowly, going for the tavern I always visit whenever I am at this town as I try to absorb the surrounding mood. This tavern attracts newcomers and veterans alike, all of them have unique personality and story of themselves, a magnificent tavern it is. Taking a turn on the corner, I walk trough the narrow alley that leads me out to a small street with small housing here and there with several shops. The tavern stands out here, with it being bigger and taller than most of the shops here. Walking through the double door of the tavern, everyone set their eyes on something, or rather someone. Following their rather peculiar reaction, I set my gaze at the counter.

There, 2 people who have similar hair color, faint pink like that of a sakura petal. The height difference sets them apart, but the taller one stands out the most, having an air of utmost confidence and superiority. Had I not experienced myself that kind of overwhelming pressure she have, I would definitely turn tail and exit the tavern without second thoughts. However, with the small one sitting next to her both of them looks like a siblings, or maybe they really are? Anyway, it's kind of heartwarming, if one would ignore the aura of a (definitely) veteran sitting there.

Taking a seat on the counter, I order a cup of hot milk to warm myself. Something hot will definitely warm this depressing mood of mine. Sigh.

ID #47918 

BD: 1+2-1  CD: 3   MD: 2

Giant Bat.

Stronger than its peer, this bat, true to its name, is larger than dire bat. With its huge size, they could take on any foe and put up a fight against strong adventurer. Although their huge size makes them easier to hit, their toughness makes up for this weakness.They prey upon goblins and smaller monster, but they rarely show themselves. Only when hunting can this monster be sighted and even then they are quick to disappear.

Yuji arriving here means that this child is about to become their victims. If one is more than enough to create trouble, then two would definitely give him hell. Alone, he have to fight aggressively to defeat this bats. That being said, he could not even land a hit on this foe, He move from one place to another,  avoiding all the attacks from the bat. With both side could not hit each other, the battle continues.

Yuji: 69/72 HP  15/18 Energy

Giant Bat #1: 50/50 HP  

Giant Bat #2: 50/50 HP

ID# 47914

BD: 1+2-1  CD: 9  MD: 10

*SHRIEK*

Sounds of wings flapping fast can be heard above his head, from behind. Knowing that he could not react on time, he shield the child with his own body, protecting her from upcoming attack.

In an instance, two <Giant Bat> dive towards him and scratch his back. Thanks to is armor, the damage is mostly mitigated and the child is out of harm. With his left arm around the child, he turn back and swing his weapon to the side. The bat fly upward, evading the blow. 

He sheath his weapon and carry the child, going behind the rock. "Sit here and don't go anywhere. I will bring you to your mother later, ok?" The child nod weakly, scared of what happen just now.

For now, Yuji just have to dray away their attention from the child and make them focus on him instead. As long as he keep them busy, they can't go near the child.

"They look strong though...."

Yuji: 69/72 HP  15/18 Energy

Giant Bat #1: 50/50 HP  (12 Damage, 9 mitigation)

Giant Bat #2: 50/50 HP

Continuing further deep the cavern, he would hear cries of bat once in a while. Yuji hurries forward, getting closer to the source of the sound. At the end of the path, he would reach a spacious area, with a child at the center of the room. Yuji quickly approach her, confirming her safety.

Despite her tattered white dress and messy face, she does not seem to be injured anywhere. The lack of light makes it hard for him to confirm the fact, although it is safe to say that the kid does not sustain any physical trauma. He try to calm her down as she would not stop crying for her mom, patting her head while saying that she will be fine.

That being said, this spacious area is not here for decoration. He would love to get out of this cave quickly but this child could not cooperate with him in her state. 

"What to do...."

Two pair of eyes, bright red, looking down on its preys. Unsuspecting of the looming threat, Yuji think hard of what to do next.

ID# 47829

BD: 2+2 (Accuracy Bonus)     MD: 3   [Recover 1 energy]

More people jump into the fray. He lose track of how many people involved in this fight. He could care less though; the more the merrier, besides it would improve their chances of survival. 

This battle has drag on long enough. A fight against a boar at his current level is easy, but to protect a group of low level while doing so is very hard. Nevertheless, only one more stand in their way. He would then run towards the enemy and raise his sword high.

Unfortunately, he misses by a hair breadth. Quickly throwing himself to the right, he dodges the boar’s counterattack in a nick of time.

Yuji:  71/72 HP    8/18 Energy

CookieKat: 12/12 HP 3/3 Energy

Phillia: 7/8 HP 1/2 Energy

Boar: 1/8 HP 3 DMG 1 MIT