Oikawa

"You look like you could use the rest, no offence - but you've also had a bit of an emotional day - that'd wear out even the most hardened of warriors."

She wasn't wrong. His eyelids felt heavier than himself and slightly still puffy from the almost waterworks. He had seen far better days to say the least. But at the moment all he could think about was the lights dimming around him as Mari waltzed from one end of the room to another. Her figure only slight visible in the darkness, outlined by the shimmer of snow and moonlight peaking in through the home.

Suddenly she whipped around in confusion. His earlier statement must've finally settled in as she stumbled over her words.  "Snow doesn't even have a smell." She muttered beneath her breath. Oikawa could only chuckle. He could assume that she wasn't used to compliments. But the brunette was not going to shy away from giving them. Especially if it flustered the normally withdrawn ginger. "I'm willing to bet all my Col that someone has found away to turn the smell into a candle. And if it was lit right now, it would definitely be you."

Oikawa managed to move both legs under the Kotatsu. The fireplace mantle slowly crackling to life as Mari begin to stir its embers. The warm glow illuminated the room in away that allowed their shadows to dance with the slightest movement. Folding his hands behind his head, Oikawa looked towards the ceiling.Golden eyes searching the wooden planks above for nothing in particular, but slowly drifting all the same.

"Mari...this Kotatsu is rather warm. I'm surprised you don't sleep here...I-I should get one of the-," a yawn erupting from him. Rolling over to face her, Oikawa let a small grin show through. "You really aren't that bad. And I think you should give yourself more credit. You are a warmth person, Mari. I think if people let you, you could easily melt whatever past preconceptions they had of you."

@Mari

Sand swirled around them. The dusted particles clinging to his every movement as they inched closer to what hopefully would be there destination of rest. A bead of sweat raced down from his brow. Something was off. Waving his hand, he dissolved the cub from his shoulder and replaced it with one of his spears instead. The steps he followed were deeper. Fresher if you will. As he lurched forward over the hill, a cloaked figure came into view. A mask obscured his face but there was no mistake he was awaiting the brunette's appearance.

Oikawa remained cautious, the man's crystal a vibrant orange much like his own though he wasn't familiar with this player as far as he knew. Tension filled the air as he stepped closer. The ex-frontliner remained poised to strike until the hooded figure spoke.

“Nice weather today, huh?” the sneering voice echoed. Oikawa remained silent. What were his intentions? He knew people still loathed him for Zel's death. Could this be an ambush for that reason? "State your busi-"

"Oikawa, The Faint. Now that's a name I haven’t heard in... I don’t know how long, actually. But it’s nice to see you’re still kicking.” Oikawa was taken aback. "He knows my name. Surely this is an attack the-“It’s Seul. Though I'm not sure if that’ll mean anything of substance. I never did quite reach the upper echelon of the frontlines in my time there.”

"Seul?" The name sounded vaguely familiar. He thought back. Images of a lake and the boss raid populated, though he looked much different during those times, and he was sure his crystal wasn't orange then.

"Ahh, Seul. The frontlines isn't much more than a title these days. You're not missing out." Oikawa tightened the grip on his spear. He was still unsure of the man's intentions. He wasn't too familiar with him and was in no mood to deal with a PKer today. "Entertain me. What bring you out here?"

@Seul

Thread Completion

SP: 4

[+1 per 20 posts | +1 Quarantine Bonus | +2 "Advance Training" Housing Bonus (Once per Month)]

Materials: 20 "Tier 3"

[+20 from Loot]

Col: 5,755

[+5, 355 from Loot | +400 per 20 posts]

Other: 1x Rare Trinket "Tier 3" and 2x Rare Consumables "Tier 3"

"I see. Let's go King," muttered the brunette as the old fishing rod dissolved from view. Easing up from his perch, Oikawa motioned for the cub to follow. They had some traversing to do. Whether it was back to floor ten or somewhere else, he needed to fins her. "On second thought.." the cub suddenly dissolved. "I don't want her to think I'm hostile. If I show up with a damage based familiar, she might be threatened and act. We can't have that." Not that the cub had much say in the matter, he imagined King would agree. Parting the walls that led to exiting the pond, Oikawa stepped through and began his trek. First he would start back on the tenth floor. As it seemed the most logical place to start; though if she wasn't there, finding her would prove to be much harder than he already thought it was going to be. Pushing past the cavern walls into the floor's boss room, he began his descent to floor ten.

Waves crashed and lapped at the beach front. Despite the motion of the lake, it seemed the waters had settle once more in terms of fishing. Though he had cast his line again, the bites and nibbles had become even less frequent than they were before. "Hmm perhaps it is time to wrap it up. I have acquired the 20 materials I wanted anyhow. That said, I still don't know where to find Mari. Maybe the locals have heard of her." Still resting his head, the boy allowed the rod to lie in wait a little longer. the slender pole nudged neatly between his elbow and underarm so he could remain as relaxed as possible without dropping the rod into the depths below. He wanted to ensure there was nothing left to catch before packing it up; even if he had already hit his quota he was going for. King stood by as well. The cub aware that there may be a last minute catch to be had.

His thoughts were very much still muddled, but he only had a few more materials to collect before he could begin making his way to Mari. He needed her guidance. Someone that knew what he was going through and understood what it's like to be in the spotlight for the wrong reason; whilst also dealing with the consequences of your mistake. He hasn't faced Calrex in quite some time. Nor Baldur or Teayre. He hadn't seen his family in quite some time and he could only shake his head at the thought. "Before I can face them, I need to learn to face myself. Hopefully Mari can help with that." Casting out another line, the bait was quickly snatched and reeled in by the front-liner. As if practiced, King immediately resolved the fish and retrieved the ingots it held. "Thank you, my King." The cub beamed at being able to actually do something aside from sitting their and staring into the vast lake-sized waves.

Tossing the line out once more Oikawa rested back into his perch. One arm rested upon his knee. A clenched fist serving as a head rest as he laid his cheek into and closed his eyes. "Zel.. You didn't deserve what happened to you, at least not from me. You were one of my closest allies. A friend. A Commandant. Family. Opal took many things from us. Dom. My free will. And many other things to say the least. However, my own thoughts crept through, influenced by her retched potion and I acted. In cold blood you were slain. How do I redeem myself Zelrius? How do I atone for you?"

"Huh.."

The line wriggled once more. "King." Nodding the Cub rose up and snatched the rod between his jaws. Pulling on the rod, the cub plucked the fish from pond before pouncing on it and effectively dissolving it into pixels. "Exceptional," explained the brunette. 

"I wonder where she resides these days? Last I saw her was what floor ten possibly? I'm honestly not that sure any more. It's been far too long since then and I imagine she wouldn't stick around there if she didn't have to." Oikawa's mind continued to wander. Why did he seek her out of all people? Aside from the fact that she seems on her own path to redemption they had never had a positive interaction between them. Yet he felt drawn to her nonetheless. His focused snapped back to the line as it began to tug once more. King's eyes fixated on the bobble as it bounced in the water. The line tugged furiously but, Oikawa was accustomed to the sensation of fishing by this point. Reeling it in, Oikawa captured the fish with minimal effort; retrieving materials as his reward for virtually do nothing. "You'd think fishing would be more used by the general populace. I guess material farming just isn't that important anymore," he mused to no one in particular.

The line remained still. The bobble idle with little to know movement aside from the occasional gust of wind causing it to sway back and forth. He was usually well equipped with patience. That being said, his patience was once again being tested by one of the most mundane things the game could offer aside from actually watch paint dry. It was as if all the fish had decided to vacant the premises at the same time. The line continued to bobble. Dangling just beneath the surface. Hoping to ensnare something, anything really at this point. Oikawa glanced over. A sigh escaping as he leaned forward and began to think about his next plans. Redemption was a topic currently pinned to the top of his to do list, the materials gathered today would be trivial in that pursuit. He needed to seek out Mari. He had heard what she was beginning to make of herself given her status and frankly put, he wanted to join her in that endeavor.

Oikawa's amber gaze stiffened. "I wonder just how many of these chest actually appear here? Is there a set limit per day? Is it completely randomized on each floor? Or is it something conditioned by Cardinal?" The question were pointless thoughts to say the least. Once the chest shattered into rainbow reflective polygons, he resumed his seat on the sandy throne over looking what he would now consider his watery kingdom. Not that this place was exclusive to him in anyway, however he did enjoy the thought of it. Nothing stood before him and his only loyal subject also happened to be his right hand in most situations. Icy cat eyes steeled themselves on the un-moving water as King took his seat to the right of Oikawa. Paws folded over as he vigilantly waited for the slightest trembling indication that something was tugging the line. Nothing came of it for the moment however and they continued to wait patiently for the next tug.

Circling the chest,  Oikawa rubbed his chin as he tried to reason what could be inside. It had been so long since he had last opened a chest, he wasn't even sure what they carried anymore. "Perhaps its just Col, though I seem to recall them having materials and-or items previously. Perhaps all three now?" Guessing was pointless however. All there was left to do was to just open the chest. "Now how to do that..."

"Hmm hopefully its worth my while, that was quite a haul and it'd be a waste of time if nothing good was involved." Pressing the prompt, Oikawa watched as the chest rattled back and forth. The audible sound of a click resonated before snapping the lid of the chest open to reveal not only col and a few consumables, but materials as well.

"Good. I'd be disappointed otherwise," he murmured as he looked the unidentified items over before allowing them to dissolve into the void know as his inventory.

King pawed around the rest of the beach, looking for something to occupy the cub's time as Oikawa hauled in materials to use for later. These ores seemed to be of much higher quality than the ones in the cave. He was rather surprised by the sheer amount in the one fish as well. The cub was used to his master taking him on these rather mundane adventures. It had been quite some time since they had seen a fight barring the golem earlier. The cub seemed nearly saddened by the thought; however, he perked up as the brunette let out a gasp. Scurrying over to, him King investigated the cause of the ruckus.

"Ahh. A treasure chest." With a hard yank, the brunette was able to launch the wooden box from the azure pool onto the beach front. Plopping the chest down in front of them, Oikawa watched as King sniffed it over. "Shall we open it?" Nodding his head, the cub stepped back to allow the blacksmith to inspect the chest.

Let me have it:

http://www.sao-rpg.com/topic/5641-oikawa/

Reaching the back crevice of the cave, Oikawa motioned for King to keep up as they narrowed in on a rumored spot the brunette had briefly heard about from the NPC's of the floor. "This way King," he gestured as he found the rather out of place crystal jutting from the cavern walls. "If I remember correctly, this should leave to the waterfall ponds rumored to be on this floor. The fish eat ores rather than plants or other fish to sustain life so if I fish them out, I should be able to get some materials as well."  Nodding to his own internal monologue, he and King passed through the now reveal opening in the wall and took in the sight of the water. Drafting the fishing rod in his inventory, he found a spot slightly overlooking the azure pools below and cast out his line. Immediately his line bucked, reeling in the haul, a rather large catfish-like creature broke the surface and flopped onto the ground. Dispersing it revealed 8 ores.

"Ahh I should've picked up fishing a long while ago."

Oikawa nodded at Mari. He fastened his cloak, clasping it into place as he prepared to exit the quaint home. "I always am, even if I don't look it. Be sure to remain safe yourself Mari." She tussled at her ginger locks, a half smirk displayed as he turned the handle. He offered a final wave before singing the door open and stepping out into...

"A damn blizzard..." he murmured. Glancing back over his shoulder, he realized that traversing in this flurry storm was possible but he'd more than likely succumb to exhaustion before reaching the double digit floors. "This is one of the few times I wish this damn crystal allowed me to use teleportation gates. I don't want to be a bother however..but. Tch. What should I do?"

The puzzled look on his face couldn't be hidden even if he tried. Sighing, the darkened lad beginning rubbing the back of his neck. "Um M-Mari, if it's not too much of a bother..could I possibly stay here for the night?" Absent-mindedly he looked the house over for a the guest room before suddenly remembering that she stated the home was a one bedroom house earlier. "Uwahhh.... I'll...umm sleep in here of course," he said gesturing to the Kotatsu with a slight blush. "If that's alright with you?" Regardless of her answer, he closed the front door. It was rude to allow the elements to sully her home.

"If not, I can at least wait the storm out before heading home. I can't imagine it lasting too long." Fixing his gaze upon her, he offered a warm smile before retaking his seat at the Kotatsu. The hug seemed to have a positive effect on her earlier, the slight pat of his shoulder before he was poised to leave confirmed at least that much. She even briefly mentioned his scent being nice, though he felt the scent of a blacksmith would be the last thing to be considered nice.

"You have nice smell to you know. Flowers and snow. An interesting yet comforting scent. A combination you don't come across often." Following her gaze to the fireplace, "I can also light that if you would like. The smoldering embers do well to remind me of home."

@Mari

The brunette wasn't quite sure what Shield was referring to but accepted the answer nonetheless. "Understandable. I imagine the frontlines have been rather hectic in our absence though I've heard we are approaching the quarter mark. The pinnacle that is the twenty-fifth floor. That being said, I don't feel you have any reason to apologize, especially to me of all people." As the former tank switched gears on the conversation, Oikawa looked towards Calrex as the topics in question were better suited for someone such as himself. The highest-leveled knight however seemed to still be fixated on his change in appearance.

"Ahh...yes. A quality of life change if you will. Far more fitting and accurate to myself outside the game," he explained with a slight grin. As Shield recast his own line, Oikawa did the same and managed to feel a tug immediately. Whipping the wheel in reverse, he reeled in yet another plump fish harboring another material as well as a stomach full of eggs.

Calrex had managed to retrieve two more eggs himself for his collection and was mid explanation when the small waterfall depositing into the pond managed to eject Aincrad's very own gaijin samurai, Baldur. As if on cue, Calrex gestured to Baldur indicating that he would in fact be the most knowledgeable about the state of the frontlines. Offering a wave and a hello, Oikawa tossed out his own line once more.

"Aye it is a great day for fishing and by default a near complete reunion of the Spectrum Coalition." Shifting on his perch, Oikawa watched as King and Roc dive-bombed bubbles in the shallower parts of the water in attempt to catch their own fish. A grin found his features as he focused back on his line. "So Bal, Cal was telling us about the state of the frontlines. What's your take? Are we poised to take on the twenty-fifth floor?" 

Unease was one way to describe Mari as she continued to refute his compliment. He was not as naive as to think his words would reach her as easily but he yearned for nothing more than for her to be able to accept herself and realize, "You know, I was once told that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. It is not up to you to decide whether you are beautiful or not, but for you to accept that you are beautiful regardless if you see it or not." His words could only do so much he reasoned, but given their current state and having only known each other briefly, showing her was quite an option either. "So my words will have to suffice for now," he thought.

She forced a smile of her own. Her words cutting back at his own comments. He seemed to be saying the right thing but in the wrong ways, or perhaps the wrong the the right way. Either way his communication was becoming jumbled to say the least and Mari was taking everything he stated the wrong way. That being said her question caused him to think for a moment. "Tristan and Manta were as close as casual coworkers could be. We got a long well enough but I didn't know them intimately enough to call them my close friends. But nonetheless they were apart of my Azure family and if I knew there whereabouts I'd surely reach out to them in time."

His thoughts began to settle. "They do matter to me, but I'm not sure if I matter to them. Since his death I've heard from none of the remaining Commandants save for Kiru because I sought her out specifically. But since then, even she has gone been radio silent. Aside from Calrex and Baldur players I once called friends have all slowly eluded me. Whether on purpose or not I'm unsure. Like you I began to isolate. Keeping myself from those that would see my crystal and think 'He killed Zelrius. His friend, fellow Commandant, and strongest damage dealer in the game. And he did so with little to no consequence. Did he even regret it? Look at him? He hasn't taken [Redemption] he doesn't feel bad for it?' They will never understand," he paused. 

"Sorry, kind of a side tangent." He wanted to forge new bonds with people. But getting to know new people and address them was the hard part, especially when the inevitable question arises about his crystal. He sighed and her head fell int her hands with a groan and an apology. "No need to apologize," he quickly quipped. "I'm not much better if were being honest. But thank you for your words and safe haven. Seijuro Manor is the same for you, should you ever find yourself in need of some company on the twenty-first floor."

"T-That's nice." Was all she could say as she turned away from him. Still laying back, he flicked open an eye half sleepily and eye'd the time. It was beginning to get late and he didn't want to intrude or over stay his welcome. Shifting to a more upright position, he leaned over and offered her a hug from behind. His chin ever so slightly resting atop her head as his arms gave way to a light squeeze.

"Thank you Mari. I imagine after such a long day, you're tired. I should let you rest and be on my way. Perhaps we can meet up again though." His golden eyes searched for hers as he rose up and stretched. "You've been an amazing host, Mari and I hope to repay it to you at some point."

@Mari

Take aback by her response, Oikawa shuffled back into a more upright position. "I think you misunderstood love. You being beautiful wasn't a joke in the least bit. One does not simply give compliments for the sake of it. I am many things, but a liar is not one of them; nor would I say something like that for the hell of it. You are beautiful, you just haven't come to see it yet you goof. And side-note, we both know what we're capable of and fearing you is pointless and laughable," he beamed. Resting his back against the wall he let her finish before adding more. Her sigh signified her realization that to an extent, he was at one point friends with Zelrius and maybe her badmouthing of him was off-putting; however, what she didn't know was that he was no stranger to stupidity the blonde boasted on about and her words were sure to be more accurate than anything the late dual-wielder could've said about himself.

As she explained her differences with Zelrius, Oikawa could only vaguely remember these moments that floated about the frontlines before he had joined them. Sitting up, he laced his fingers; attentively resting his chin upon them as he placed his elbows over his bent knees and listened. She relived the moments of his dominance of Azure and his ability to effectively cut those in out something as important as boss raids, effectively leaving many lives to nothing more than a battle of chance. His sheer petty haughtiness nearly costing people there lives as well as having the audacity, though surely at the time something he could back up, to threaten another player with the death in way that proved she wouldn't be able to safely participate if she chose to.

Their eyes met once more. She wasn't in the wrong for her feelings towards Zelrius. Despite the love many showered him with, he also was equally drenched in disdain. A feeling the brunette was all to familiar with for multiple reasons. Despite this, Oikawa longed for his fellow commandant. Despite their differences, his blade never should've struck him. Mari was only half-right however. "Surely Kiru or Manta Gaul or Tristan would have to disagree. Well Kiru less-so now since our last encounter, but nonetheless I imagine neither Tristan nor Manta would want anything to do with me and I seem to remember a PK hunter wanting me dead as well. Though I guess I'm not exclusive to that hit-list I imagine."

Pushing the hairs from her face, Oikawa for once was clearly able see the freckles that lined her cheeks. "You're right you know. And I hope you continue to embrace the advice you've given me." The brunette was unsure if he'd ever quite feel the effort he planned to put into learning to live with and overcome the decision he made that day. For so long it ate at him and only just now did it begin to slightly lift from his myriad of problems. A soft smirk came from him as eased back into a laying position. He was unsure why he felt better more in this moment than he had in a while, but surely Mari was the cause. At least in someway or fashion.

"Thank you. I believe in you as well," he stated as his amber gaze offered a reassuring expression to her cerulean orbs.

@Mari

Stats:

White cloth barely grazed the cavern floor as he traversed the familiar terrain of his home floor. The multi-colored crystals etched into the walls were often the specimens of whatever armor or weapon he needed; or used as orders for others. He stretched, a yawn escaping from him as outstretched hands nearly collided with some of the lower hanging stalactite. "Narrowly avoided that one huh, King?" A small roar emitted from the cub that pawed alongside him as they broke into the direction of one of the cavern's hidden lakes. "Hmm it's been awhile since we were in dire need of materials, but perhaps this event and the quest can make up for that."

Nodding in agreement, the cub suddenly placed his nose to ground. Oikawa searched for what could be up but nothing was in sight. Pressing towards the wall, King scratched at the wall before defiantly taking a seat near it. "I see. There's someone on the other side?" "Not too many people are aware of this spot so I wonder what has him all riled up?" Pressing his palm into the crystal, the wall parted in a way they could pass through before closing once more behind them. With full speed, King launched forward crashing into a blue covered player Oikawa was all too familiar with. On his left Oikawa recognized another player he hadn't seen in quite some time.

"Oi! Shield. Cal. Its been awhile." Finding a small ledge between them, the brunette parked there as King tussled with Roc somewhere in the background. "I see this quest and spot area little more popular than I originally thought," gesturing to the large collection of eggs the players seemed to be gathering. "I for sure thought I'd be the only one here." Drafting the menu, he selected an old rod that he had received from someone some time ago, and cast his line out as well. "I've never been to keen on fishing but every so often the scaled ones carry valuable ores that can be used for smithing."

Oikawa realized he had been gone for some time but he didn't wan't to focus on the past, more so just moving forward. If they asked, he indulge but he wasn't going to bore them with the stories of his seclusion.

"Hmm.." A tug on his line caught the frontliners attention as he spun back the reel. Without too much effort, he managed to pluck the flopping critter from the water managing to collect a few ores and eggs in the process. "This one was loaded to say the least, but uh... how have you guys been? Especially you Shield, its been a long while since we've last spoke."

The brunette barely winced as the flick of her finger pecked him in the forehead. A soft chuckle escaped his lips as she jumped up to retrieve something from the mantle of the fireplace. Placing the fabric into his hands, Oikawa realized the stitched square was a hand crafted embroidered handkerchief. Clutching it in his hand, he adjusted as Mari fixed him another cup tea before parking next to him and placing her legs back under the Kotatsu.

Feeling her breath rise and and expel, she paused before beginning to unravel the tale of her past. Oikawa listened. Heavy words rolled off as she recounted the story of taking the life of the one precious thing she held closest to her. Her pain was unimaginable to him. "How could he ever compare his loss to that of hers? How did she shoulder a burden like this and remain sane to this point?" She tried to hide it but she shook. Her cup trembling ever so slightly as she clenched the porcelain between rose tinted fingers. He went to comfort her but instead she beat him to it as she placed her hand on his wrist in reassurance. "Mari..." 

Lightly squeezing his wrist, she reiterated their time was for him especially given that he sought her out. She even went as far as to tease him for letting his guard down around her. "Hmm... one would be a fool to turn down such hospitality from someone as beautiful as yourself," he said with a chuckle. "You ire for turning down your offer is more scary than drinking your tea." Resting his palm on her wrist, he returned the squeeze. "Rest assured being called insane is the last of my worries and the list is good...

for now.."

Returning his grip to the warming cup, he let the tea cascade and fill his throat once more. The bitter taste slightly more apparent the second go around as his face slightly twisted. "Hmm.. maybe I should be more cautious," he coughed in jest. Glancing back over to Mari, something she mentioned sat with him. Readjusting, he laid on his side; resting his palms beneath his face and before addressing her last statement.

"So you and Zel were at odds?" He knew he was supposed to be seeking her help but surprisingly he didn't feel as distraught but rather just unguided. Maybe he just needed the company of someone who knew what he was going through. Nevertheless, he was intrigued with Mari. He knew so little about her and he wondered if this was the case for most.

"Sorry for prying so much. I know were here for me and my issues but ... I'm not nearly in the same position as you. I made a choice. Your initial choice was made for you. I still have trouble coping with my actions. I understand why I did it. I know the underlying reasons and what my actions would cause and I still made that choice. However, from this and you I'd like to learn how to overcome. You've begun to take those steps. I too want to make those steps."

@Mari

The salted weed was comforting to say the least. The dried sheets reminded him of home in way; something he had almost forgotten he had outside this place. Crystal blue eyes watched him over. A smile sought him out as their eyes met again. The ginger-haired woman poured the finished milk into a cup before passing the warmed mug to him. He swirled the liquid around before taking a sip of his own. Placing the cup down, she poked her own question in response to his. 

"You said no one deserves to be homeless - would you say you deserve one?"

Memories began to occupy his mind. Flashes of friends and events that had taken place since his time being stuck in Aincrad. Early days he held onto the most. The days of his first guild. His first few friends. Meeting Calrex and eventually Teayre, the people he would come to call family after all this time. People such as Azide, Ariel, Takao and various other figures that have either perished or disappeared from the light of the frontlines; much like himself. Then there were the memories of them. Kotori, his first love in this heartless world. Her time cut short as she slowly isolated herself from Aincrad and himself. His first heartbreak. Then there was Kiru. Another prominent 'love' in his time here. A person that at one point he was willing to dedicate his life to seeing her get out this game, and even at this point still holds that same ideal, also vanished from the world much like her lover Keith and her best-friend...

Zelrius. His friend. His fellow commandant. Aincrad's only known wielder of Dual Blades. The blond playboy who led Azure with a King Arthur style approach and at one point his best friend...

and first mistake....

The sounds of shattered polygons replayed over. And over. And over. The scene on repeat in his head. The motion of his rapier turning Zelrius red in fourteen distinct places before causing him to no longer exist. The cowards take as he never saw his face. Only his back riddled with red dots as he ceased to exist in this world.

Tears welled up.

He hated this moment more than anything. This one action cost him so much and took that much more from everyone else. Did he deserve to be homeless for his actions? For committing a cardinal sin in a game where there are no do-overs or second chances? Every ounce of his body screamed no. He didn't deserve anything for what he had done. But could he ever atone for his actions and attempt to make it up to the people he let down if he just allowed himself to die? Could he ever even approach forgiveness if he didn't make the attempt to fix what he had done?

His thoughts settled, his attention returning to Mari as flicked away the tears welling up. "Do I deserve what I have for a home now? No, I don't think I do. But I do think given that we don't have many options for housing due to the crystal, I think if we are making an effort at change, having a consistent place to sleep is a necessity to payback what we took."

Motioning her own cup into a small circle, she sipped before continuing quietly. "Do...you know how I got my crystal?" she questioned. He thought for a moment. "I haven't the slightest clue how she received her crystal. Surely she already had it when they first met some time ago; though back then she was much more...hostile...at least I think. The memories are fuzzy to say the least."

Edging into a more upright position, he moved the nearly finished drink to the side. The 'sip' being much more of a gulp and the last few of the droplets that had welled in his eyes dissipated as a more serious demeanor overtook his features. "I can't say I'm familiar with the origin of your crystal. I vaguely remember a rumor going around that you caused harm to family but I don't put much merit in rumors. That said, our first few encounters did live up to your notoriety at the time. Seeing you like this...I should say... seeing us like this... is still a shock to me to say the least. I've only ever been this vulnerable with a few people and on the outside; and I've never seen this side of you."

Decidedly, he finished off the last of the drink before resting his gaze back to her. "And though we are 'here for me' you carry a burden of your own too and despite your outward appearance, it seems your emotions are just as knotted and entwined as my own. I'd venture to say you need someone to talk to just about as much as I do. Even if only for me to listen and nothing more." His brow furrowed ever so slightly as she settled-in beneath the Kotatsu. "She could look a lot worse for wear," he thought. "As for letting my guard down? As I said, there's only a few people I've let my guard down around." A half-cocky grin snaked its way out, "somehow you managed to coerce my walls down and make the list."

Settling beneath the Kotatsu himself, the warmth and comfort of the milk settled into him. His eyes slowly edging shut. "You put me at ease Mari. I'm not sure why. But you do. But tell me, how did you receive your crystal? Why were you one of the most feared PKers in SAO? Why are you still being hunted?" It was a tall order of questions surely, but this Mari in-front of him couldn't be the same one he was willing to go to blows with before. Then again, she was probably thinking the same of himself.

@Mari

The wheels turned in her head. He could tell as her eyes searched him for then answer to her question; why her? However, her words echoed a different sentiment. She reasoned that there had to be someone better suited for what he requested. Someone that had already overcame their fears, their demons, their betrayal. She pleaded that it was something that she still struggled with herself and from the outside looking in, Oikawa thought she had it all figured out. Sure she still kept to herself, but she wore the mask of "being fine" all to well. But he could only chuckle at himself for being as naive as to think she didn't still struggle too.

"No one has this all figured out," he thought. "Surely not with an orange crystal permanently glued above anyway" Mari's next words surprised him even more so though.

"But I'll try to offer some insight." Removing herself from the slush, she extended an open hand to him. Hesitant and cold, Oikawa stared briefly before accepting her invitation. His trembling hand clasping hers as he too was removed from the snowy ground. Her welcoming grin and the promise of warmth and tea eased him ever so slightly as they began to head to her home.

"And for what its worth, I think everyone deserves redemption."

The words echoed despite the sounds of chilling wind and crushed snow. Maybe it only echoed to him. Repeating over and over within his head. "But do I deserve redemption?" he questioned mentally. The looping of the two statements played back in his head a few more times to no avail. He remained unsure.

Snow continued to fall around them. The little flakes providing little more than background noise to their silent trip. He was unsure where they were as he had never been this deep into the fourth floor. His eyes wandered. Taking in what he could of the surrounding area. Not that there was much to point out aside from differing trees and shrubs here and there. Orange curls bobbled into view as his focus resettled on Mari. His hand was still wrapped in hers. The little heat he felt only resonated there and he wondered just how long she had been accustomed to living out here. Though if he recalled correctly, within SAO, feelings of pain and temperatures were reduced to nearly nothing. So whatever he felt was also just in his head. Though he didn't mind the thought.

As the path they follow diverted, a small frozen lake made its appearance. Her small home hugged the edge of the bank; seemingly serving as a guard to any threat of the area's serenity. Her apology brought his attention back to her. "No need to apologize," he responded. "Though I'm unsure on why you feel you don't deserve it. No one deserves to be homeless." 

Pushing through the front door, Mari gestured to the Kotatsu and made mention of preparing something for them. He felt honored and lousy the say the least. Not only had he bombarded her with problems, he did so without so much as a hello or thank you. A selfish one he was.

"Thank you," he let out. "For everything and inviting me to your home." Atop the table sat a teapot with the 'Great Wave of Kanagawa' etched into the side of it with paint. The matching teacups softly rattled as Mari sat across from him. "I think the best way to discuss any troubles....is over a good pot of tea." He nodded in agreement. Tea was rumored to soothe the soul, and more than anything his soul needed soothing. Taking note of the dried seaweed that had occupied one of the counters when they entered and the Matcha milk she was preparing already, he gestured to the seaweed; "May we?"

With a nod, Mari retrieved the seaweed and passed him a few pieces of it. "Thank you," he mentioned again as he placed one of the squared nori sheets in his mouth. Looking to her, his amber eyes settled upon hers.

"Where did we go wrong?" The question was more rhetorical than anything but he wondered about her. Why did she carry the same burden as him? What was her story and what weight did she carry on her shoulders? He wasn't so inclined to ask directly but he didn't want to go on and on about himself without learning about her too. After all they barely new each other and she welcomed him nonetheless.

"If you don't mind, why do you think your undeserving? We're similar and I know much less about you and yet I came to you of all people for help. The crystals above us played a role, but I guess I felt you were the person who may understand the best what we're going through."

@Mari

Oikawa's gaze jumped at the mention of his name. "Did she really only just realize who I was? I suppose with the hair and style switch, my look has changed rather drastically from my 'white knight' days." Her bare finger pointedly directed at him before just as quickly snapping to her mouth in apology. He chuckled as she stammered out "Gah..S-sorry. Sorry...I just - never really expected to see you. I mean...I've heard about what you did - and how you disappeared and...." She paused briefly, and understandably so.

The brunette met her stare. His eyes slightly switching back and forth between her icy blue orbs, searching for any inclination on how to respond. Was she surprised by his question? Was she upset with him for what he had done, like so many others? Was she even that close to Zel. He honestly couldn't remember. Did she feel bad for him? Surely not. She had no reason to. The extent of their relationship was nothing more than two PKers who had butted heads a few times. How long had he been staring? "I should say something..."

"I reason that's something we both have in common. Disappearing that is. Long to be forgotten and ignored by the general public. Though that's not exclusive to just us either..." Her brow furrowed. "On edge I wonder? I mean I did kill Zelrius in one of the most cowardly ways possible. It's not unreasonable to be apprehensive.."

"Why my help?" She questioned as her expression softened. "I'd have thought I'd be one of the people you'd wanna see least. But...." Her gaze seemed familiar. Welcoming even. It reminded him of the same face Kotori would make when he was bothered by something. The same face Kiru made when he told her what he had done to her best friend. Not quite the look of understanding, but the look of knowing there was more to understand. It scratched the edge of pity...and he hated that. But because of it, he knew why he sought her out. In many ways they were different, yet similar all the same. At least so he thought.

Snapping away from his thoughts, the wayward frontliner answered.

"I didn't follow you. As you've pointed out before in our last encounter, your routine hardly changes. I simply happened upon you by coincidence in this case as I didn't expect to see you away from home." Oikawa pushed his palms into the slush, turning his frame to sit more so in front of Mari rather than beside her. "I want to cope, understand, and overcome," he explained. "I- I- try not to let this crystal define me. I am more than just that single action I took. But the truth is, that moment has tore at me since. I wasn't quite in my own state of mind if you will, but they were MY actions nonetheless. I wanted him dead. And I was given the tools and impulse to act on it. I don't deserve redemption. I don't think I ever will. But I want to atone for what I've done, and I'm not sure how."

Shuffling in his seat, he lifted his head. His solemn look on his face searching Mari over for a response.

"I don't expect you to have a direct answer...I guess I'm asking more for guidance than anything.." His gaze shifted to the sun.

"I wonder what they would think," he mused.

@Mari

Snow crunched rhythmically to the patter of scattered steps as figure darted about the frosty expanse. The hint of urgency in their steps prompted one to assume they were on the run. Perhaps they were, but assumptions would never do you any good in these kinds of situations. The cloaked figure stopped. Coming to a halt after checking for whatever was tailing them only moments ago. Golden eyes continued to watch as the figure felt for the tree they rested on before sliding to where the roots sprawled into the ground and sitting for a rest.

A flicker of shadows enveloped Oikawa as he approached from the figures left. The darkness unveiling around him just as quickly as it had appeared.

"Just give me a moment of peace, goddamn."

A weak chuckle escaped the brunette's lips as he rested his shoulder on the tree. "Peace? An odd request for a place like this. Even more so coming from someone of your..uh..history," Oikawa mused. Scenes of the pink-haired woman danced through his mind. Vague memories of her antics reminding him of just who he was dealing with. Back then, he was scared. Afraid to approach the infamous leader of Cerulean Silence. One of Aincrad's most notorious PKers despite having a body count lower than more unknown PKers. The profile at which she operated however was in a league all on its own. Renown more so these days for her ability to elude capture and execution. That being said, if one was looking for her, she wasn't necessarily hard to find. As proven by the encounter before them now.

Shifting his gaze to the now ginger-haired lass, Oikawa continued. "Sorry for the intrusion. Our last encounter was cut rather short.." Turning, he pressed his own back to the tree and slid until he too rested in the snow. Frosted breath slowly expelled from him before sharply returning.

"I need your help."

Stats:

Ragged pants and the sizzling sounds of evaporating sweat beads filled the nearly silent void blanketing the sandy expanse. Oikawa managed to continue his pace. Placing one foot after the other focusing solely on the task at hand. Scattered winds dusted away the trailing paw prints King, as the cub attempted to keep up with his master. One would assume that the survival skill would have an effect in these environments, but like most mechanics, they inevitably stop mattering.

Reaching the apex of the dune, Oikawa stopped short and gazed across his current horizon. Beneath him, a path carved in the sands led to what he assumed was Yōgan Village. What lay on the other side was rumored to be the nesting grounds of Aincrad's fabled Phoenix. The Party of Blacksmiths often mentioned that if you could retrieve one of its feathers, you could change the name and appearance of an item.

"In a way, it's like breathing new life into something of old..."

The thought drifted. Dropping to a knee, Oikawa glanced to the cub before picking him up and hoisting him onto his shoulders. "This next part gets tricky, and we need to make haste," murmured the brunette as he began to trek past the village.

"Curiosity is an interesting fate. Too often I find myself on these 'adventures'...perhaps this one will yield results..."

Oikawa's golden gaze shifted to something he hadn't noticed before.

Another set of steps.

"Hmm...I...wonder..."

@Seul