As soon as Shino left, I felt a little lonely, like I had lost a loved one, but the next time Shino came to my house, it would not be so far away, because I firmly believe that the loneliness will disappear soon.

I don't know when this day will come, or what will happen in the future, but I'm sure Shino will one day become a real family with me – I feel that way in my heart. Being awake helps to dissolve loneliness.

After sending Shino away, I went back to my room and prepared the Amusphere. Today is Saturday, and I'm going to log in to ALo and work with you on big tasks. In addition, before Shino left, after logging in to ALo, she asked everyone not to go to the field right away, but to give everyone about 30 minutes to prepare.

Shino would suddenly say something like this, and I wondered what was going on, but since it was Shino, there must be something very important. Thinking that I couldn't help but swallow this request, I activated the Amusphere, put it on, and dived into the world of fairies.

The place we arrived at when we infiltrated the fairy world was the portal of the Celestial Rhine. There are already quite a few players coming and going, and there is a lot of noise. On weekdays, there are not many players during the day, but on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, a large number of players gather on the Sky Capital Line from the morning.

That scene proves that the popularity of Svart Alfheim, as well as ALo itself, has not declined.

A few minutes later, the appointed time came, and all the usual party members gathered around me. At that time, everyone suggested that we go to the liberated New World, the ring iceberg Floschild, but as Shino said, I suggested that we prepare to go to the New World again.

At the time, most people raised objections, but when I explained that it was better to prepare seriously than to challenge the New World, as they did at SAo, everyone was reluctantly convinced, from now on. Thirty minutes later, they met at the transit gate and decided to head to Hrosschild. The crowd was once again scattered throughout the Rhine City.

After everyone was gone, Shino came to me, thanked me for accepting my proposal, and took me somewhere. The location is in front of the jewelry store in the Tiandu Line business district area.

"I'm here"

"It's an accessory store, why are you here?"

"Because I have something I want to give you as a gift."

"Then I'll roll my eyes." When it comes to gifts, I usually think of birthday gifts, but it's already May, and it's more than five months before my birthday, so birthday gifts are out of the question.

"Now? Why all of a sudden? ”

"Look, you have symptoms while you're diving, and I want to give a gift to you

Hearing this, I rolled my eyes.

Before Shiina's problems could be solved, she placed her father's token silver bracelet on my right hand as an amulet. Yesterday thanks to Shiina, who told me her memory, it was gone. To recover the amulet.

The effect of this amulet is quite great, when you are in pain, put it in your field of vision, you will be able to clear your mind, come to your senses, and the pain will be greatly reduced. I never thought that Shino would give me something like this, but when I received this amulet and learned about its efficacy, I was really touched and almost cried.

However, as Kirito's Sprigan of the Shadow Elf Clan, that spell doesn't exist on my arm. Because this silver bracelet only exists in the real world.

Moreover, although it has been greatly reduced, the seizures caused by Shino's memory still occur in the VR world. If you have a seizure in this VR world, then you will most likely not be able to do anything without an amulet.

Expecting this, Shino thought of giving me a talisman in this world. In this spirit, I felt a strong impression again.

"Of course, amulets don't exist in this world. But yesterday, thanks to Shino's cooperation, I didn't have a seizure. \"

"If the chances of this happening to you are already zero, I won't try to give you the talisman."

The girl with light blue hair and bobcat ears who was about to say this gently took my black-clad hands and gently wrapped them around me. Yui has the warmth, softness, and comfort that only a girl in front of her can have, and it is gradually spreading to her whole body through her hands, and at this moment, the girl smiled.

"That amulet was given to me by my father. So at the very least, I want to give you what Origin has. Can you give it to me? ”

When I heard this, I felt a heat in my heart. Shino wanted to present my original things as something I always wore when I was in the VR world. No matter what I thought, I didn't think of it, but it tried to give me something to support my heart and suppress my seizures.

"I want to support you all the time." I want to give you something that can support your heart - the moment I understand Shino's feelings, I want to hug Shino's lips. I was driven by the desire to cover it with my lips.

However, I knew that Shino didn't want to be treated like this in this kind of place, so I pressed this feeling deep in my stomach and nodded to Shino with a smile.

"Oh, I'll take it. I will take something from you, and that will be my talisman in this world. ”

"Thank you, Kirito. \"

Shino smiled lightly and let go of my hand.

"But what exactly is Shino going to give me? \"Thanks to the days spent with Shino and Shiina, I know Shino is not the kind of person who will give strange things to others, but what kind of things do you want to give me in the future? I can "guess if there is."

"Then Shino, what gift do you want to give me?" \"

"I'll know then. Can you wait here though? ”

“？”

According to Shiina, what she will give me is a custom-made ornament that can be ordered from this store, but it takes about 15 minutes to make, so it seems that it is needed. That's why I asked him to give me about 30 minutes to go capture the Grand quest.

"Is that so? What kind of design is that? ”

"It was also fun to receive it. So, I'll order food now, but I don't know if you can wait here. ”

"Because you don't want others to see your designs?"

"yes. Do you mind? ”

"Okay, fifteen minutes or so, there's still plenty of time, I'm looking forward to it."

Hearing me say this, Shino said happily, "Wait for me." Then he walked into the jewelry store. If it's Philia or Lilan, it feels like it's going to give you something weird about the design, but that's not the case with Shino, so you don't have to worry about the design of the accessories.

"And, I'm sure Shino will also give me something like the bracelet or bracelet he gave me in the real world. "With the bracelet, no matter how hard you move, it won't move or jump, and best of all, you can see it whenever you need it. Best of all, it's the same amulet you would wear in the real world.

"So, Shino will definitely give me the same bracelet as in the real world. \"

The charm of the bracelet that Shino gave me.

What will this shape be?

"Maybe it's the same shape and design you gave me in the real world?"

Or is it Sinon's original design and shape?

As I was drawing in my mind various ideas of the gift that Shino would complete in the future, I realized something and turned my face to the square behind me. It's not as noisy as it is during the festival, but I can feel the sound of people talking in the square, and there are quite a few people.

"That's when a major event is announced or held."

However, when I logged in to view the event log, there were no announcements of major incidents, and no other announcements of capture teams arriving in the New World. But this noise. I wonder what the players are arguing about?

"What's all the fuss"

I muttered as I turned my body to the square, when something hit me in the chest. I was stunned, but I turned my head and saw that it was the player who had collided with me, but because he was only the height of my chest, he was taller than when I was a child. Realizing that he was a player, I immediately put my hand on the player's shoulder, supporting his body.

"Are you okay!?"

"That's when I realized something." The player who bumped into me was a girl with beautiful silver hair and waist, dressed in blue and wearing a small hat.

The only woman I know is a silver-haired woman in a blue suit. As I was about to say the name, the girl looked around frantically and turned her reddish-purple eyes to me.

"Ah, hide me!"

"Yes?"

"I mean, I'm going to hide there, so if someone comes looking for me, tell them I've gone somewhere!"

With her shouting, the girl jumped into a vat near me with the lid open and vanished. As I stared at this series of sudden events, I heard another voice behind me, and I immediately turned around, which surprised me a little.

With pale blue hair, long pointed ears, and a sleeveless jacket-style combat uniform with blue lines on a white background, a man with purple eyes appeared and was glaring at me.

Her clothes are predominantly white and blue, and she has light blue hair. Judging by the man's features, I knew he belonged to the same Wendyne clan as Asuna and Diabel, but the sharpness in his eyes made my back straighten.

"Hey, you"

"What is it?"

"Have you ever seen a silver-haired girl around here?"

It seems that the man is looking for a girl who is hiding in the bucket over there. However, she didn't seem to know that the girl was hiding in the bucket, presumably because her presence detection skills hadn't improved much. Besides, the girl now asked me not to tell her what was hidden here, it seems that it should be a priority.

"Silver-haired girl, right?

When I pointed behind me, the man walked briskly in the direction I was pointing without saying a word of thanks. Perhaps because of the habit of walking fast, the man's back gradually became smaller and smaller, and he couldn't see clearly in more than ten seconds.

When the man's back and figure disappeared, I took a deep breath and said to the barrel next to me.

"I can't see anymore. Is that okay? ”

When I called out to her, a girl jumped out of the bucket, brought her face close to me, and smiled brightly at me.

"Yes, I'm saved. Thank you! ”

After saying thank you, the girl came out of the barrel completely, her feet on the ground. At that time, I checked my face again, and then I remembered the identity of this girl and that man. And when I was about to say the girl's name, the girl opened her mouth first.

"Thank you for protecting me. I'm number seven. The leader of Shamrock. ”

"As expected." The girl's appearance is ALo's idol, the president of our selfish rival's grand guild "Shamrock", and the genius researcher No. 7 in the real world. And the man with light blue hair just now was the elite emperor of Shamrock.

I didn't expect to see Xiao Qi here - I was so happy that I replied to Xiao Qi with a smile.

"Oh, sure enough! Just right, I want to talk to you! ”

"Oh, are you a fan of mine? So, what about a signature? Thank you for your help. ”

"No, not really. I'd like to hear your opinion as Dr. Naneiro, not as a fan. ”

Xiao Qi's eyes widened. By now, players who want to meet Seven will definitely ask him for autographs, as they are all fans of Seven. When I make a statement that is far from this type of player, I must feel like a rare item.

"Shamrock doesn't look like she wants to join the army or anything."

"It's not like that. So, Seven, let's hurry—"

As I was about to speak, I felt a louder voice coming from the square. The person who spoke seemed to be coming towards us. It seemed that Xiao Qi in front of him also felt it, he turned his head to face the square and sighed softly.

"Uh, I'm still looking, I think I'll catch up."

"I see, those are clovers. And you're running away from those clovers? ”

"Yes. That's why I told you to hide it. ”

"Shamrock is like your companion, isn't it? Why are you running away? ”

"Sometimes I just want to relax on my own. But I can't do that with everyone at Clover. That's why I ran away. ”

Indeed, Xiao Qi is an idol and the president of a huge elite guild called Shamrock, so he always has someone by his side. Even if you want to enjoy some alone time, there are many times when you can't. I don't understand what it's like to run away.

"Is that so?

\"Hmm. However, even such an event has the right idea. And, I know people find it funny. In Japan, people say that such things are carried by portable shrines, right? \"

"I see, Idol-sama is surprisingly calm. \"

"Research is a contest of money and time. Well, I'm glad I have a patron now, so I don't have to worry about money. I just wanted to make a plan. Idols can play if they can make a lot of money. ”

Dr. Seven / Dr. Naneiro is still twelve years old. Although I was only in junior high school, he knew all about research funding, how to make money, and everything that twelve-year-olds here didn't seem to know, and I knew all about it. It seems that it is difficult to say that it is a non-standard zone.

As I looked at Seven with this thought, the voices in the square became louder, and I felt the breath grow stronger, and I turned around with Seven. Xiao Qi's attendant seemed to be getting closer and closer.

"Night game, I think I'll be able to catch up soon. I'm sorry, I'll get you out of here. ”

"Oh, I see, in that case, it looks like we'll be able to talk for a longer time next time."

"I kind of like you. Tell me your name. ”

"Kirito. Kirito from Spriggan. \"

\"I see, Kirito-kun. That's a nice name. Let's meet somewhere. Darth Vidania! \"

After Xiao Qi said this, he quickly ran in the opposite direction of the square, unable to immediately confirm his appearance. Alice told me to watch out for that Seven, but from what I've just said, I can't confirm any signs or glances at Seven's body that I need to be careful with.

"I wonder if Xiao Qi is really someone to watch out for." Is clover also something to keep an eye out for? Is this true?

\"Kirito! \"

Just as I was thinking this, a voice came from behind me, and I turned my head in surprise. A girl with light blue eyes, light blue hair, slightly oversized wildcat-like ears on her head, and a revealing combat suit. Shino said she was going to the jewelry store and would be back in fifteen minutes.

After talking to Xiao Qi and meeting with the Emperor, I lost track of the time, but apparently fifteen minutes had passed.

"Shino. Are you done? \"

"Yes, I succeeded. Sorry to keep you waiting. ”

"It's okay, I just happened to find a way to kill time."

Shino tilted her head. The inside of the store is soundproofed and you can't hear the outside, so they may not understand why I'm talking to Xiao Qi and Huang. Well, the matter is so trivial that it doesn't even need to be talked about.

"So, Shino, what have you come up with? I want to see it. \"

"Don't panic.

Hearing this, I gently rolled up the sleeve of my right arm and stretched it out to Shino. When Shino held that hand, she put something on my right wrist just like she did when she gave me a silver bracelet in the real world. I just remember the first time I put on the silver bracelet, I put my right arm close to my face and stared at my right wrist.

The thing Shino wears is a metal bracelet. It's about the same thickness and size as the silver bracelet Shino gave me in the real world, but the color is whiter than the silver bracelet Shino gave me in the real world, and the sparkle is a bit luxurious. You feel and on the entire surface of the bracelet, there is a pattern carved like a large letter.

A simple bracelet with no other special features. Platinum gold bracelet with a Shina-style design that does not like to be overly decorated. It was a gift from Shino.

"It's a bracelet, after all."

"Well, maybe you don't like it? Do you want anything else? ”

"No, actually, that's what I wanted. After all, bracelets are the easiest to see and don't move. Thank you, Shino. \"

When I thanked her, Shino's cheeks flushed like cherry blossoms. It was so cute that I couldn't help but laugh again.

I noticed

"Think about it, what the hell is this letter?" Because it was written consecutively, I knew it was a word, but since it was a character that didn't exist in the real world, I couldn't read it. Probably a character from the world of Alfheim.

\"By the way, Shino\"

"Yes?"

"In this letter?? What?

Then Shino added an explanation. As I thought, the character seems to be a character from the world of Alfheim, carved out after he realized he had a choice when he ordered it. And the reason why he chose the language of this world instead of English or Japanese seems to be to prevent the people around him from reading it easily.

"Is that so? So what's written on it? ”

"I have to answer, is it useless?"

Shino said this, and her face turned a little red. For a moment, I thought he might be writing something embarrassing, but I knew Shino would never write something like that, so it wasn't. - Perhaps that's why the content becomes unnecessarily worrisome.

"If you can, I think I'd like you to teach me."

“”

Shino lowered her head a little embarrassed, but soon she raised her head, took a step closer to me, and quietly grabbed my hands and wrapped them in her own. Silently close his eyes and open his lips slightly.

"[If you protect me, I will protect you too.] Yes, it was inscribed. ”

Hearing this, my heart warmed. After all, this bracelet is my talisman. The poem I want to protect is also protecting me, which makes me feel at ease and calm. With this, even if I had a seizure, I was able to immediately regain my composure – I had that sense of certainty.

"Say no more. Thank you Shino. I will cherish Shino's talisman. \"

When I said this, my loved one nodded quietly in front of me with a warm smile on his face. With this amulet, you will not be afraid of any enemies and you will not be afraid of seizures. I had this confidence before I knew it.

"Alright, looks like everyone is here. So, let's talk about the New World, the ring iceberg Flosild. ”

The crowd nodded, and it was the voice of the owner of the café run by Egil, a dark-skinned man with a few white spots on his face.

After receiving Shina's gift, Shino and I traveled with you to the next continent, the ring iceberg Floshilde. After woglinde (then a warm steppe region) and Velgunde (a desert region), hrothhillde is definitely the name of an annular iceberg.

However, because they had heard the name "Ring Iceberg", everyone had a hunch that Helothild would be in a cold region, so they bought cold-proof items in advance, and used them as soon as they entered Helotschild, but they were hit. It's cold and there's nothing to get stuck.

Then, when Lilan transforms into a wolf dragon form, his whole body is wrapped in warm fur, and as soon as he enters Hloshilde, he takes the initiative to transform into a wolf dragon form and begins to overcome the cold alone, but he learns that Lilan's fur is warm, and everyone wearing cold-proof clothing, especially Asuna and Yuki, say that they want to be warmer, and finally insist on using Lilan. However, Lilan immediately shuddered, shook off everyone, and hurriedly spread her wings and flew over Herlohilde.

At the same time, we formed a team of three and flew over Helothild in a snowstorm to see how the whole of Helothild was formed.

So, the day after the day of research activities, we gathered at Egil's café for a strategy session and a strategy session.

"I tried to get around it, but there are a lot of mountains there.

Everyone nodded at Shina's statement. Flotilde is a basin-like terrain with a lot of icebergs around it, and there are plenty of places to go if you take a plane.

However, despite its shape, it seems that the altitude limit is set at a very low place, and even if you try to fly, it will immediately stall and fall, and you can't go where you can't go without flying. No.

At this stage, we seem to have a fairly limited number of places to move in Helotird. By the way, in such an environment, Lilan, who flew over Flosilde, immediately stalled and crashed, and ended up running in the snow like a real wolf.

"But it's the same as it was in Volglynd, isn't it?

"This seems to be the most likely possibility. There are so many places where I have to fly. ”

Kem, who had visited Heloshild's environment with Yuki, spoke, followed by Asuna who accompanied the group. Of course, there were height restrictions in the capture of Volglinde, and their removal was the way to continue the great mission. It's definitely the same pattern this time.

"In the current situation, you can only go to the vicinity of the portal, so let's mainly search near the portal. Also, the enemy was stronger than I expected, so I was ready for battle, which seemed better. ”

"Then, let's go into the city again and prepare to arrest us."

Celica listened to me.

When Shino and I went to the jewelry store, everyone was ready accordingly, and then we went out to look for Flosild, but we haven't made any adjustments to the official battles and equipment, and I haven't.

Perhaps because it is the third floating island, the monsters of Helotschild are different from the monsters of Virgood and Volglinde, and they are also quite powerful, so from now on, if you want to capture them, you must be ready to fight.

Hearing Sirika's words, everyone stood up and prepared to enter the city, when Lifa stopped me.

\"Big brother, what are you going to do? Do I need to check the gear? \"

"Ah, me"

"Wait a minute, Kirito. I need your help with something. Can you stay? \"

Then Egil called me. However, even though Egil asked me to help, he hadn't asked me to help him with the shop so far, so I was sure it was something else. But even then, he didn't do anything strange to me, so I can trust him.

"Is that so?

As usual, when the order was given, everyone gathered walked towards the exit of the coffee shop and dispersed into the city. In the blink of an eye, it was just me and Egil who stopped me in the coffee shop, and I immediately turned to face Egil.

"Then Egil, why did you call me?"

\"Ah, that's right, you're fighting with 'Twin Swords', right? \"

Ever since I got it at SAo, my fighting style has been "dual-wielding" with a sword in both hands. Because I gained a unique skill, but it also meant that I was able to fight with two swords with this skill.

So, in ALo who didn't realize the stunt, at first I was worried that "dual-wielding" would not be able to fight, but after it was confirmed, ALo usually had a combat style called "dual-wielding" that was realized, and if the one-handed sword was mastered and the skill proficiency was raised to a high level, then it was understandable that any player would be released.

Because of this, I haven't given up on "dual-wielding", and there are many other "dual-wielding" players in this ALo. The most familiar example is Lilan, who has recently become an ally.

"Yes. Or rather, you know, because we're fighting together. ”

"Then why don't you use a "coupling device"? ”

"[Coupling mechanism]? What is that? ”

I did not confirm, but according to Egil, since the implementation of Svart Alfheim, the weapons have changed, the most noticeable of which is the connection mechanism of the sword. Apparently.

As for what will happen, only when using the Blacksmith with the "Dual Wielding" skill is cast, the "Connect Mechanism Implementation" command will appear in the one-handed sword customization, and if selected, the handle tip of the one-handed sword you are using will be modified so that you can connect it to another one-handed sword.

In addition, the hilt of the sword equipped with the "Connecting Mechanism" will change, and the hilt of the same mechanism can be connected. Moreover, it can be done even in combat, and it seems that connecting and disconnecting can be used in real time.

I've used the blacksmith many times so far, but I didn't notice the appearance of such an item, as it immediately turned to strengthening and production.

"The mechanism that connects the hilts of the two swords?

"yes, it seems that quite a few players have used it, and although it is difficult to use, if you master it, you will find it more interesting than other weapons. Why don't you give it a try too? "Yes"

"Of course, I'm starting to use 'dual-wielding', and that 'coupling mechanism' should work as well. "Dual swords are also popular weapons in other action games, and their biggest feature is their attack range and continuous attacks. Just being able to double the range and continuous attacks already makes me feel powerful, and it would be very convenient to be able to switch to dual-wielding or dual-sword form at any time.

"I think it would be nice to implement it."

"Yes.

That's right, it's called 'familiarity', it's called 'coupling mechanism', and ALo is steadily evolving. \"

\"Ahh Perhaps this is also the effect of the seeds made in the Kayaba. \"

"That's when I realized something." Egil asked me to stay here because he wanted to talk to me, but I don't think that's just about "coupling mechanisms". There must be another reason.

"And Egil, the story isn't over yet."

"She's sharp. Ah, yes. In fact, it's as if there's a girl watching you in front of the store. ”

"There's a girl looking at me?"

"Oh, it's that girl."

The moment Egil turned his gaze outside, the doors of the café opened and people came in, but I was surprised to see them.

"Oh! It's a rare thing to have a coffee shop in the workshop. ”

A young girl with long silver hair, a small hat, and a blue outfit walked over. Yes, it's Xiao Qi, the head of the Clover Guild who had a conflict with me just now and had some conversations.

"Hey, what's this girl? I seem to have seen it somewhere."

"I—Isn't that Seven!"

The next moment I said this involuntarily, Xiao Qi turned to face me, revealing a happy expression. It's like they're looking for me.

\"Ah, Kirito-san! Found you! \"

"I found you, are you looking for me?"

"yes, I've been looking for a long time, and I've finally found it."

"That's when I realized it again." Seven is the guild leader of Shamrock, but at the same time he is an idol, so what he does is always protected by the Clover Man. However, now Xiao Qi seems to be here alone, and there is no clover-like figure in the store.

"Are you here alone? What happened to Shamrock Man, or what happened after that? ”

"That's when I ended up with all the people of Shamrock.

"Then I was a little surprised." Since Xiao Qi is here, I want to know what his purpose is, but I didn't expect to come to see me.

"For me, um. Well, thank you for coming to see me. I want to have a good talk with you too. ”

\"Really? Me too. Anyway, Kirito-san, did you tell someone about the last incident or spread it? \"

"I didn't. Is that what you said yes? ”

"That's it, huhuhu"

As I was talking to Seven, Ekir looked at me and Seven and shouted at me. Her face looked a little confused.

\"Ah、Hey Kirito, this girl is!? \"

"No, I wouldn't. I'm Shamrock's guild leader and I'm also an idol number seven. I met him by chance yesterday in the city, and I met him. \"

"I'm sorry, but Egil, can you please don't tell everyone about this?"

"Oh, I see, I'll be silent with everybody, I can't make a fuss."

After listening to Akyl's answer, Xiao Qi said to Akyl, "It's a pleasure to meet you, master. "Obviously, just by looking at the atmosphere of Akyl, Seven knows that Akyll is the owner of this shop.

"So, Xiao Qi, I want to hear your story as a doctor."

"Ah, you said that yesterday.

After saying that, Xiao Qi sat down next to me and turned his face to me. At the same time, Egil walked over to the cooking table and began to prepare the drink. Seven is here specifically for me, but since he's a customer who comes to this store, I guess he thinks it's bad not to offer anything. Also, Agil is very good to women, so I gave Seven a free drink.

After looking at Achill's back, Seven turned to face me again.

"So what does Kirito-kun want to hear? \"

"Oh, but I want to ask you about your last interview."

"Well, what's the story you're talking about?"

"First and foremost, it's about the people you want to meet."

One of the reasons why Dr. Shichiro came to Japan was that although the chances of meeting him were extremely low, there was someone he wanted to meet. That person is an artificial intelligence researcher who works with Akihiko Kayaba and is described as his right-hand man.

I didn't reveal his name at the time, but I immediately understood who the man was, met him and talked to him, and confirmed that he was that person.

At that time, the person said, I was engaged in a prediction battle when bloggers were speculating about who Akihiko Kayaba's right-hand man was.

\"Ah, about that person. I didn't mention his name, but now I know who Kirito is. \"

\"Ahh The right-hand man you want to meet is Akihiko Kayaba, a former Argus employee and AI researcher Alice Serizawa, right? \"

"Oh!?"

"Yes.

The next moment, Xiao Qi's expression became extremely surprised, and he leaned his face closer to me. I must not have expected to say such a thing.

\"What!? Kirito-san, are you saying that you and Dr. Serizawa are friends!? You're lying!? \"

"No, I'm not lying.

"Huh!?"

Egil then walked up to us with two coffee cups and placed them in front of me and Seven. In the steaming pure white coffee cup, Xiao Qi drank a drink with a unique color, which seemed to be cocoa, and I drank black coffee.

"Ah, one of our friends is Alice, and her real name is Alice Serizawa. So, she's an artificial intelligence researcher. ”

\"Is that so!? Can I meet Dr. Serizawa!? \"

"We can meet if it's appropriate. However, it looks like you haven't logged in today. ”

\"Unfortunately Kirito-kun. I logged in today. \"

Achill and Xiao Qi were surprised by the sudden sound coming from behind them, and quickly turned their heads. There stood a woman taller than Asuna, with the same big breasts as Streya, long black hair, a red headband, reddish-brown eyes, and a white coat-like outfit.

The one who successfully escaped from the SAo world with us, and who has been working with us ever since, is Alice/Serizawa, who appeared in the story just now.

\"Alice Sand!? \"

"Isn't that Miss Alice!" What time is it!? \"

When I said this with Achill, Alice laughed mischievously. The same is true in SAo, but after coming to ALo, Alice makes a gaze and her expression softens.

"I was going to go to the café for a cup of tea and then talk to everyone?? Let's go together, but as soon as I entered, I saw that you were all gathered.

"It's true that this person often suddenly appears from behind when we bring it up." When I asked why, Alice seemed to have greatly improved her hiding abilities during SAo and now, so it seems that she suddenly appeared for this reason.

Alice, who suddenly appeared, said to Egil, "Mr. Egil, please have a latte." "From that moment on, Seven was already glued to Alice.

"Okay, okay, I think this is my first time meeting you, Seven. I was lucky enough to meet ALo's popular idols. ”

\"You, you, that Dr. Serizawa!? \"

"Huh? Where did you hear this story? Oh, you're just talking. ”

"Are you really Dr. Serizawa?" \"

"Oh yes. I'm the person you want to meet, Airi Serizawa. I guess you can find out if this is true by asking these two people and my friend. ”

After hearing this, Seven looked at me and Achill alternately. The player using this Alice avatar is actually an avatar of the person of Airi Serizawa.

"That person is undoubtedly Serizawa Alice herself. As proof, I've met and talked to her many times, and I've also heard stories about the development of SAo. \"

When I told him to try not to see the light of day, lest it be seen as a lie, Seven turned to Alice again and lowered his head slightly.

"Nice to meet you. Seven colors, asapine. ”

\"It's a pleasure to meet you, Dr. Shichishiro. I'm Airi Serizawa. I'll tell you in advance, but you don't have to use honorifics. Please speak in the same tone as before. Also, please call you. "I'm Alice. ”

"Ahh

Xiao Qi raised his head, but there was still a slight look of surprise on his face. Xiao Qi himself may know Alice, but he probably doesn't think that Alice is a person who can talk and interact with people so frankly. The situation here is very similar to the situation when Shino first met Alice after coming to the hospital after hearing about Alice's reputation.

"Dr. Serizawa No, Alice-san, I have something to ask you. \"

"What? Seven"

"Did you really research and create "Sword Art Online" with Dr. Kayaba? ”

The story of SAo and the story of Akihiko Kayaba's side. The story of SAo, in particular, is something that Alice does not want to be touched upon or even want to talk about, but it is the most important thing for scientists and researchers who know Alice. This worries me, so if you ask me, there's nothing I can do about it. When Alice was asked about the story, she snorted and opened her mouth.

"Ah, yes. I am indeed Dr. Kayaba's right-hand man. Together, we created "Sword Art Online", a demonic game that killed four thousand people. Listening to me, what are you going to do? ”

"So what have you learned? What do you know about Dr. Kayaba? ”

Seven asked, with a strong glint in his eyes. After all, among researchers, there is an image that Alice, who is considered Akihiko Kayaba's right-hand man, knows about things that Akihiko Yamaba does not disclose to the public.

However, I've heard the answer to this story, and I know it won't make researchers sigh. — just as she did when the story was told, Alice sighed.

"I'm sorry, Little Seven. I have nothing to teach you. \"

“？”

"I'm really known as Dr. Kayaba's right-hand man, I think I have that level and I'm proud that I've been able to get closer to Dr. Kaiba. You didn't talk to me.

"Why did you decide to create a virtual world, what was your original purpose, what were your ideas and you didn't tell me anything." That's why I can't give you an answer that satisfies you and those interested in Dr. Kayaba. ”

"Never..."

Seven is disappointed by Alice's statement. I was also disappointed to hear this story, but Kayaba didn't say much in the end, not even talking about himself to his daughter Liran and son Jupiter. I think it's a lot like the thatch in the "Kayaki". Leave.

By the time Alice finished speaking, the latte she had ordered was already in front of her, and I brought it to my lips and took a sip quietly.

After taking a deep breath, Alice turned to Seven again.

"So, what does Seven think of Dr. Kayaba? You said in the news at the time that you can't deny the VR world created by Akihiko Kayaba, but what does that mean? I do not know

Together with Seven, I was surprised by the content of Alice's question. The question Alice asked just now is exactly the question I want to ask Xiao Qi. I didn't expect this sentence to come out of Alice's mouth, but it seemed just right.

"Yes, Xiao Qi. I'd like to hear about it too. Can you tell me? ”

Seven gently turned to face me, whispered softly, and opened his tightly closed mouth.

"As an engineer, I think it's amazing that you've created that thing. It was inherited by this ALo. \"

"After working at ALo for a while, I really learned how amazing the technology is."

"Why do you think it's amazing?"

Hearing my question, Seven turned away from Alice and looked up at the ceiling. It's not so much the ceiling as ALo looking out over the country.

"This VR world makes the impossible possible in the real world. It's nothing more than a simulation experience, but it has the power to make the impossible possible in the real world. In other words, this virtual world. One day, it has the potential to transcend the real world. ”

"I understand what Xiao Qi means." Of course, this ALo and SAo world is a VR world, not a real world. However, because of this, I was able to make things that I couldn't do in the real world possible.

It is possible to wield "dual wielding" to fight monsters, to ride on the back of a mythical dragon named Lilan, to run in the sky, all of this is a virtual world, and anything is possible because it is a world that can be simulated and experienced.

Akihiko Kaiba created the achievement of "the seed", "the seed" is the foundation of SAo, and anyone can use it at will, which is fantastic, and the technology itself is amazing.

"Of course, I think it's a great piece of technology.

"However, what Akihiko Kayaba did was unforgivable. Kirito-san, you think so too. \"

\"Ah, that's right. \"

"That's why I just want to use this technology for my research. I can't forgive Dr. Kayaba for what he did. I don't even have someone I can respect and respect. ”

"Your research? What type of research are you doing as Dr. Seven Naneiro? ”

In response to Alice's question, Seven took a deep breath and exhaled again, as if to say that he was waiting.

"It's [Cloud Brain]."

"\"Cloud Brain\"? ”

"What is it?"

Then Seven chuckled softly and turned to me. It was an innocent smile, as if you wanted to play a prank and annoy someone.

"It's a pity I can't tell you!

"Eh, why don't you say so far! I think I can understand you!? ”

"If that's the case, it's even more so. Research is ideas. If someone steals something from you, that's a big deal. Hey, Dr. Serizawa? ”

Alice, who is also a researcher, smiles at Seven, who turns around. After all, the story is about the same researcher and scientist, so I think I can understand.

"Haha, that's right. Research is an idea, and there's nothing more annoying than having your hard-earned ideas stolen. It is only natural that Kirito-kun did not tell me. \"

"Uh, yes. That's right. ”

"However, if you are so worried, you can consider joining my research group one day, and when the time comes, I will personally recommend you to be the leader of the group."

The outline of this "cloud brain" is known only to the people of the Seven research group. To know something like that, you have to do something like that. Maybe you should think about it.

"Haha, it's an honor to have a personal recommendation from the doctor, I'll think about it."

\"Then, then. I'm looking forward to Kirito-san visiting my real-world lab! \"

"I'm not sure Seven is serious about this, but maybe that day will come." For some reason, I...

Just as I was about to think, Xiao Qi withdrew his gaze and began to look around the store.

"Even so, it's a place to relax and looks like a good hiding place for idols."

"Oh, you think so too.

Seven answered Alice's question while drinking tea, shook his head, and finally reached for the cup in front of him, took a sip gently, exhaled, and put the cup down before finally answering.

"It's true that when an idol looks like it's being spoiled, it's completely different from parents spoiling their children, it's all pretend games."

"Pretending to fight?"

"That's right, the pampered party and the other party understand and play with each other. Because none of them really want to marry me, want to have a girlfriend, want to take it for themselves. ”

With such enthusiasm, one might think that there are such people, but the Seven says that this is not the case. Maybe it's because I've never been in contact with idols, but I can't understand what Xiao Qi is saying.

"Is that so? I've never been obsessed with idols, but does anyone think so? ”

"Of course it's not zero, but most of it is pretend games, but that doesn't mean they're joking. Because everybody can try to immerse themselves in that space, that place, and that's really from the heart. "You can be one of them, it's pure, it's very noble.

"There's no one who doesn't make an effort to have fun."

It really costs money to buy new songs from idols and singers, as well as to attend the events they host. Even so, I participate in something like this and buy new songs because I want to enjoy it, and if I don't, I can't enjoy it. When it's done, it's all about trying to enjoy the results of it, so you can enjoy it to the fullest.

The players who were keen on seven at the time were also keen on seven because they worked hard to be zealous. - As soon as I understood that, I felt that I could understand that enthusiasm.

After saying that, Xiao Qi smiled.

"Trying to have fun is a very positive effort. I believe so. ”

\"Try to enjoy it that way, that's what it means. \"

\"Huh? Kirito-san, did you find anything? \"

"That's not true. I feel like I've learned a lot from you, though. I thought I had a long way to go. ”

So, Xiao Qi suddenly got angry. His appearance is so childish, I can't believe that this is Xiao Qi who had such a difficult conversation just now.

"Does that mean you treat me like a child?"

"I—I haven't done it. I haven't done it at all. ”

Kirito-kun, as long as you let me know what is going on in your heart, I will forgive you.

Come to think of it, I listened intently without even trying to say anything. It's almost time to talk to Xiao Qi, it's not good if you don't talk about it.

"Well, I think I should try to enjoy this VRmmo world more. Because the game is inherently simple, clear, full of unknowns, and more exciting. So I feel like if we don't enjoy the world more, it's a loss. ””

"That's right! That's where the real excitement of the game comes in! ”

\"Ah, even so, I'm a hardcore gamer! \"

When I asked him to announce this, Seven started laughing, and Alice and I both laughed. However, that time didn't last long, and Xiao Qi suddenly turned into a face that seemed to realize something, as if he remembered something, staring at my face.

\"Ah, yes, Kirito-san. I have something to ask you. \"

"Well, what's the matter?"

\"Kirito, do you have an oSS? \"

“oSS”。 This is an abbreviation for "Original Sword Technique", which is a system unique to ALo and does not exist in SAo. Originally, sword skills were created by the management and developers, but this oSS allows players to create their own special moves and register them.

Being able to create one's own unique sword technique is indeed a fantastic feature, but \"The use of a series of movements that are not normally masterable without the assistance of the system, as well as movements that do not place an unreasonable burden on the body, must be performed without assistance], so it is not something that is so easy to obtain.

"Whether they got it or not, so far they haven't."

"Do you mean 'oSS'? I didn't. ”

"yes. Why? ”

"Right now, capturing Svartjärfheim is my priority, so I don't have time to get it. Well, I'm not uninterested. ”

"So, how about handing over the occupation of new areas to Clover and working towards the "oSS"?

"Well, if you say yes, that could be, but it's not. After all, the game is no fun if you don't conquer the game yourself. ”

Hearing my answer, Seven looked a little disappointed.

\"What's that? Kirito-kun's "oSS", I want to know. \"

"I'm sorry, but it's not like I can't fully understand, so please understand."

Among my friends, Asuna and Yuki have successfully obtained oSS, so it might be time for me to consider a?? We got oSS next. I hadn't even started seriously thinking about getting an oSS until Little Seven told me, so this was a great opportunity.

Just as I was thinking this, I heard some voices outside, as if it was a big event, and I could feel the presence of many players. It's very similar to the commotion in the square where I know Little Seven. Hearing the voice, Egil turned outside and whispered.

"Hey, it's a little noisy outside, doesn't the clover guy smell it?"

\"Well, it seems so. There's no way, I'll go first today! \"

Xiao Qi's expression was slightly gloomy, he left his seat and walked towards the door, but then turned around again. The eyes of everyone at the scene were focused on Xiao Qi.

"Thank you very much Dr. Serizawa for your valuable presentation today. And Kirito-kun, thank you for your interesting presentation. I will come again, so please come back! dasvidanya！ \"

Seven said the same thing as yesterday and ran out of the café. As I watched the situation, I turned my gaze to Alice. Alice had told us to be careful with Seven, but I don't think there was anything to be careful with Seven, either now or yesterday.

"Mr. Alice"

"What's wrong, Kirito-san? \"

"Is Xiao Qi really the kind of girl who needs me to be careful?"

Alice put her hand lightly on her chin and whispered.

“Nanairo dr. Alsharpin。 Of course, she has a brilliance and a way of thinking that makes it hard to believe that she is a twelve-year-old. They are not as dangerous as Vashak Casals or anything like that, so you don't have to be very careful with them.

Of course, Clover has also grown by attracting elite players, including dual-wielding players like me, and a lot of "animal tamers". Since he is the leader of this group, he should be careful of Seven, as he is an opponent to capture.

"Even if I don't, I may meet Xiao Qi many times in the future." I don't want to think about what would happen if I had to fight her. Saturday, the week after I started taking Floshild in earnest and talking to Seven at a coffee shop.

"It's not an important thing, it's just a material."

"Huh!? We've been beaten again!? ”

In the dungeon in the corner of Herohilde, after checking the contents of the treasure chest, Felia and Lifa said.

After a number of strategic meetings, we started to tackle Hrosschild in earnest, but on several occasions we were plagued by a problem. That is, even if you complete a quest that may be related to a big quest, you will only be able to get items that can be obtained near here.

Originally, the quest was to give you rare items in the first playthrough, but when you beat Volglynd and Wilgand, you will get quite a few rare items. However, since I started capturing Flosheld, I haven't been able to get what appears to be the first-time playthrough perk.

When it comes to the things that can be obtained, they are all so-called ordinary materials that can be obtained by clearing a mission once. No matter how many tasks we have completed, we can only get these materials, which means that the tasks we are working on have been cleared by others.

Moreover, it is clear to everyone that the forces ahead of us are Shamrock, led by Seven.

"Damn, I can't believe you've beaten me again!"

"Oops, I didn't get the rare items this time, and I fell behind completely."

A disheartened blue-haired knight Diabel and a blonde wolf-eared girl with her arms crossed, Lilan.

Recently, the pace of clover capture has been picking up pace, and it is common to say that the quests posted on the bar task board, when we saw them, were all cleared by the clover. It seems that Clover is also worried about being caught up by a few forces like us, and has accelerated the pace of capture even more.

"Okay, there's no way to do it, the other party is the biggest force in the Swat region, and the gap between strength and level is too big, it's impossible for us to win against Clover's huge guild, hey"

"A small group like ours will always be at a disadvantage"

Lizbet and Sirika sighed. Indeed, we are not a guild like Shamrock, just a gathering of good friends. So compared to the Clover and the like, it's very small, and its power and attack speed are completely lower. It can be said that our end is a matter of course.

"We're not going to start a guild or anything. Hey Kirito, why don't we start a guild or something?

When Kem said as if he had thought of something, Yuki next to him stood in front of him again, grabbed his face with both hands, and forcibly deformed him. Kem was covered in the face and screamed, and everyone noticed what was happening.