Original subtitles

(29th December 2022 Aincrad, Fourth Floor)

Hope you're not too nervous.

Don't treat me like a newbie!

Kirito, did you fix your weapon already?

Of course. I finished it yesterday.

What about you, Asuna?

I shouldn't have asked.

Yeah, it's my precious sword.

Well then, it's time. Let's start.

For starters, let me introduce myself.

I am Lind of the Dragon Knights Brigade.

In this round, I will be the Raid Leader.

Everyone, let us do our best!

(Guild Dragon Knights Brigade (DKB))

I am Kibaou from the Aincrad Liberation Squad.

And this time, I will be the Sub-Leader.

Let's work hard!

(Guild Aincrad Liberation Squad (ALS))

Regarding the boss' attack patterns,

and the roles of each squad,

it is the same as we have explained before.

The fact that we can arrive here

is thanks to the efforts of all you top players.

If you trust me as your leader,

we can definitely defeat the boss of this floor!

You say you're the leader,

but it is just because your guild found the boss room

one step earlier than ours.

That was due to our agreement, wasn't it?

Don't tell me you have complaints now?

Not really.

Listen now! Let's make it to the fifth floor today!

(Wythege the Hippocampus)

It's on its last legs!

Let's push our way through!

The gauge has changed!

Squad D, get ready to head in!

Squad A, get ready to advance!

What did you say?

We're still good to fight!

I am still the leader!

Let's keep to our rotations!

Speaking like that,

you just want to get the last attack for yourselves.

It is so obvious!

What nonsense are you spouting?

It's coming!

Asuna!

Kirito!

Argo!

Here it comes!

Asuna, let's finish this!

Sure!

Hooray!

Could you get off me, Kibaou?

Before I can do that, get your squad off me!

Sword Art Online The Movie: Progressive Scherzo of Deep Night

(29th December 2022 Aincrad, Fifth Floor: Karluin)

To celebrate our reaching the fifth floor,

let's have a toast!

Cheers!

Cheers.

Hey, there. One more, please!

Thanks for helping us out during the boss fight, Argo.

I mean, the fact that the room would be flooded

was also written in our strategy book.

Of course, I had to provide some after-service.

Honestly speaking, I thought you wouldn't help us.

Of course, I will invoice you separately for my services.

Please don't be too harsh on me.

But it was unexpectedly fast

for you to clear the fourth floor in about one week.

Considering that we took one month to clear the first floor.

With this pace, you will be clearing the sixth floor within the year.

I don't think so, there are only two days left this year.

That's definitely impossible.

Asuna?

No matter how I think of it, it was at the same time.

What is?

The Last Attack Bonus!

In the end, your sword skill

and mine hit the monster at the same time, right?

Yes.

Then, why were you the only one who received the bonus?

That's...

Perhaps my attack hit the monster slightly earlier than yours?

No! It was at the same time!

-But through the system, I was faster. -Thank you for waiting.

Here it is.

Argo, help me explain it to her.

Even a dog won't get involved in something they don't want to eat.

-Huh? -Dog?

More importantly, Asuna, pass me the roast chicken.

Okay.

But we are certainly going at a fast pace.

-What is? -Our attacks!

From the second floor to the fourth floor,

our attack pace has been increasing.

Since Kibaou from ALS,

and Lind from DKB are rivals,

they are constantly competing.

Even though the alliance seems great now,

but there are a lot of problems, too.

In yesterday's fight too,

there was some miscommunication.

Whenever they meet, they will bicker.

The attack group now used to be Diavel's raid party, right?

And after Diavel died in the first-floor boss battle,

Lind was the one who pulled them together

and created the DKB, right?

But Kibaou objected to Lind's leadership-oriented method,

and instead founded the ALS.

The two guilds think that they are the main attack group.

The DKB concentrates their resources on top players to attack,

whereas, ALS believes that the resources should be distributed around.

Both of them are aiming to be Diavel's successor.

And yet, their opinions are polar opposites.

Even so, this year's countdown party

is a joint venture between DKB and ALS, right?

If that's the case, they should get along amicably.

I guess they wouldn't want to be on bad terms during the new year, right?

Huh? What are you talking about?

Kirito, could it be that...

You weren't invited?

Invited to what?

You know, earlier you mentioned

that there are only two days left in the year.

What is the date in two days?

It's 31st December, isn't it?

What? What is it?

On the night of New Year's Eve,

the two major guilds are having a joint countdown party.

I didn't hear about any of this!

Anyway, who did you hear this from, Asuna?

From DKB's Shivata.

I also received a lot of instant messages from others, too.

It is not something to sulk about, is it?

I'm not sulking!

Parties have nothing to do with solo players anyway!

I see that you were planning on being solo.

What is it?

Nope, it's nothing.

I think I should get going.

So soon? But the dessert...

I need to gather information

regarding this town's quests and selling items.

See you, Asuna, Kirito!

Oh, that's right.

As for the thing you requested,

it seems like it'll take a while more.

Once I have more details, I'll contact you.

Okay, thanks!

Here are your desserts, the Blue-Blueberry Tarts.

Are two servings enough for both of you?

Yes, thank you.

Wow, looks delicious!

This tart comes with a bonus. Plus, it is a special menu here.

Bonus means supporting effects, right?

It looks just like a normal blueberry tart.

What kind of effects does it give?

We'll find out after we eat it.

So delicious.

This icon, what is it?

Try looking around on the floor.

There's something over there...

What is this?

Did someone drop this?

No, this is a relic.

The fifth floor is also known as the Floor of Ruins.

There are lots of relics like this all around.

In a couple of days,

when the players from the lower floors ascend,

it will be a relic hunting festival throughout the town.

I found more!

It'll be no good if you get addicted to relic hunting here.

Normally, the item's location will be displayed on the map,

or the item will be highlighted on the screen.

But for SAO, the items are dropped everywhere.

Huh? But I can see the items highlighted here.

Does this mean that this is the buff?

Yes. Dropped coins or jewels

will be highlighted with this super special...

Jewels?

Yes.

How long will this buff last?

I also want to go on a relic hunting spree.

I see.

You were right, getting addicted to this is bad.

Of course. During the beta,

there were players who ended up as Relic Hunter Specialists.

With much respect, they were called "Pickers".

I wonder if that's their official title?

But is it really alright for us to pick all of these?

You're really thoughtful.

What?

It's not that I...

Don't fret over it.

What we picked up is only a small amount of relics,

compared to what is scattered all over the town.

Moreover, relic hunting in this town

is like an addition to treasure hunting.

What do you mean by that?

Underneath, there is a large catacomb.

This means, they expanded the dungeon,

and that's where the real treasure hunting will take place.

To be honest, the relics found around town don't amount to much.

What?

You should have said that earlier!

(Anti-Criminal Code)

We're in the Inner Area and yet, I can feel the strength of your hook.

Well then, until the buff timer is up,

let's continue with the relic hunting.

Over there is the staircase leading to the catacombs I mentioned.

Are there more relics down below?

Yes. Not only do they have coins,

but also necklaces and rings with magical effects.

Rings? Necklaces?

Yes. The Astrals appear quite often,

but it's a relic buffet in the second basement.

Relic Buffet!

What do you mean by Astral?

It's a type of monster species.

Similar to how we have insect and demi-human types.

Astrals are monsters with no body,

just like spirits.

What was that screech earlier?

It's Russian for 'no'.

What do you mean by 'no'?

It means...

no spoilers!

That's true. Knowing a new area beforehand

cuts the game's fun in half.

Well then, you can lead the way to the catacombs, Asuna.

Sure. I'll do that.

Are you done with your preparations?

I always am ready.

Let's go.

The route is blocked with fallen rocks.

Asuna.

Outer Field

Amazing.

Don't get too excited and fall over!

I won't fall over.

There may be traps along the wall,

so be careful.

Plus, this is the Outer Field,

so monsters will appear.

Okay, I got it.

Take note as Mournful Wraith likes to appear suddenly.

Those wraiths appear in Scottish folklore, right?

You're quite knowledgeable.

That's right, it's a ghost-type monster I said earlier.

Ghost-type?

The lights...

Thanks, Kirito...

Asuna, be careful!

No...

Please stop...

Asuna!

(Mournful Wraith)

No!

Asuna!

(Sly Shrewman)

(Sly Shrewman)

(Sly Shrewman)

No way! Wait!

I won't let you run away!

A little more.

Ouch.

Let me send a message.

(Mail)

(Error, The recipient is either located)

(where he cannot receive messages, or is not logged in)

That's right.

Kirito.

I'll show you what I'm made of!

(Asuna, Items, Equipment, Skills)

(Earrings of Rebreeze, Prancing Boots)

(Iron Rapier)

Sorry for just keeping you.

Please, help me.

With this, I should be able to lure it out.

Here it is!

(Sly Shrewman)

(Result)

There's nothing.

Nothing.

Nothing...

Again, nothing.

(Items)

Balled-up wastepaper?

What's this?

On the 29th at 10pm, basement three.

The numbers in the brackets are...

Coordinates?

Could it be a meeting deep in the dungeons?

(Map (Field))

It's quite near.

Did they throw this away because they wrote it wrongly?

Plus it is within the monster's route?

If those that are meeting up appear,

I'll definitely become an eavesdropper.

Hey, there! You're early today.

Thanks for waiting!

I didn't wait that long

but coming here was a pain.

Another annoying thing is the handwritten memo for our meeting.

I'm not good with a pen.

We should just send messages.

No can do.

Sending messages would leave a record in our logs.

Well then, let's get to business.

So, how did it go with that?

It went well.

The main force of the ALS will ditch the joint countdown party,

and we will take over the labyrinth in one go!

Ditch the event, to take over the labyrinth?

That sounds great.

Those people...

If Kibaou and Lind aren't at loggerheads with this,

it will be boring.

Don't make it sound so easy.

To subtly induce a guild meeting

was hard work you know.

Of course I know that.

And that's why we are getting lessons

on super cool conversational techniques from our leader, right?

To stir things up,

I really want to see them kill each other.

Kill each other?

However, it really is hard to read our leader's mind.

I wonder why we're doing things the roundabout way.

We are still just sowing the seeds right now.

If we get too hasty, our fun party will be over in a flash.

I know that, too.

Enjoy the process, right?

Did you hear that just now?

Yes.

If someone managed to overhear our little secret,

it would really be a spoiler.

Hurry, hurry up and come.

What is this?

Hey, stop running around!

Block off that exit over there, will you?

My oh my.

Earlier it was just this monster's footsteps, wasn't it?

What an annoying looter.

Did this appear in the beta as well?

But sometimes, it loots items that other players dropped.

And it is a sweet bonus.

Oh, my. Speak of the devil.

No way!

Isn't that a super rare rapier?

So heavy! And the specifications...

Is this for real? Such high attack value!

It is almost a two-handed weapon!

Is that so?

What's with that reaction?

If you're not interested in it, give it to me!

Don't you use daggers?

Do you even have enough strength to wield it?

If I get to use this sword, I'll be a top grade-fencer.

And this sword's name is

Silvaric Rapier!

That's so cool!

Please look closer,

it is the Chilvaric Rapier.

Since when were you standing there?

I just got here.

I heard your voices, that's why.

Oh, dear. I thought we were talking at a volume

where the main corridor wouldn't be able to hear us.

But after getting this rare weapon from a drop,

we couldn't help but get excited.

You said that rare weapon

was the Chilvaric Rapier, right?

Am I wrong?

I'm surprised you know it after hearing the name once.

And if it is?

That rapier was part of my partner's equipment.

So, is this one of those situations

where we have to return it because it's your friend's weapon?

No, I don't mean to blame you or anything, but...

You couldn't have used Duel PK against my partner

to obtain that sword, did you, Morte?

So, it has come to this.

You're implying that I'm using the same trick

as I had against you on the lower floor, aren't you, Kirito?

Where did you come from?

Who knew that your scream would give us a shock?

And how long have you been there?

The silent treatment, huh?

Surprising me from behind took three seconds off my life,

the least you could do is answer me.

You know, I'm getting really annoyed.

Plus, this is no time for chitchat.

We have no choice but to get them, assuming they heard everything.

Being hasty puts you at a disadvantage.

Moreover, you saw the specifications on that rapier, right?

Don't look down on me.

There's no way I would lose a PVP with this amateur!

Besides, my super rare rapier...

How can I let it be taken away by those dirtbags?

Darn it!

Attracting the Mob with your loud voice to attack us.

You guys sure play dirty!

That's funny, coming from you.

Anyway, let's retreat for now.

We have no choice.

You did well.

I'm glad you're okay.

I was scared, very scared.

First, the ghost appeared, and then I fell into the trap door,

lost my way, and even lost my rapier.

I thought it was the end for me.

I thought everything would end here in this dark cave.

And then, I was just really, really scared.

It's all right. It will be fine.

If you ever get lost again,

I'll definitely find you and save you.

It's because you're my partner, Asuna.

(30th December 2022 Aincrad Fifth Floor, Shiyaya)

Thanks, Asuna,

for inviting me to this nice bathhouse!

No worries.

I've always wanted to thank you properly, Argo.

It's okay, it's not much of a big deal anyway.

Besides that,

I heard you ran into a dangerous situation yesterday, right?

Yes.

I'm glad that you're okay, Asuna.

I'll follow up with those guys,

and if I find anything I'll let you know.

Argo?

What is it?

Don't you think it's too dangerous for you to look into those guys alone?

Your information is not only valuable to us,

the clearing group,

but also the middle-level players.

It really helps us a lot.

If anything were to happen to you,

the clearing process will come to a halt.

That's why...

In simpler terms, I'm worried about you.

And as a friend,

I think you're pushing yourself too hard.

Thanks, Asuna.

It makes me happy that you worry about me.

But it's my obligation to put my life on the line,

and continue collecting information.

Do you mean that as an informant?

No, as a former beta player.

But it doesn't mean that you have to bear all the burden by yourself.

Like Kirito, he fights boss battles

with the clearing group's raid parties.

You're just worried about me

because I have a non-combat build, right?

Well, yes.

You're the type to see it to believe it, huh?

Asuna, want to give it a shot?

Give what a shot?

A duel, of course!

Okay, that's pushing it, so more of a swordplay.

A swordplay?

It's a pretend duel.

Now?

Of course!

Let's at least do it in swimsuits.

I don't own any swimsuits though.

Then, I'll make one for you now!

What rules are we going with?

How about whoever manages to put in a hit wins?

A clean hit, right?

Yes, of course.

All right.

Okay, whenever you're ready.

Here I come.

She's fast!

As expected of you, Asuna!

I thought of getting you in one hit,

but that one was more of a graze.

Then, let's continue.

This is my chance!

That was fun!

We both managed to graze each other once.

Shall we call it a draw?

Sure, of course.

When you were running on water earlier,

was that some sort of skill?

No.

This is where I'd usually charge you for the information,

but it's okay.

It wasn't a skill, but the fruits of my training.

Didn't you try it out at the pool when you were a kid?

The theory is that if you managed to move your left foot forward

before your right sinks,

then you'll be able to run on water.

I think I did that before...

I thought that it might be possible in this world.

And since then, I practised every day in the rivers and baths,

and now I am able to take four whole steps on water.

It's just a skill that is off the system.

I guess you are able to do solo scouting

thanks to the amazing speed that you showed me earlier.

You wanted to show that to me during the duel, right?

If you say it like that, I'll get super conceited.

But of course,

when the time comes I'll be able to manage somehow by running away.

And surely, I will have to be careful of my footing.

For inviting me to this high-class bathhouse,

I'll give you another piece of information for free.

Okay.

Earlier, you said

that there was no need for me to do this dangerous scouting alone.

As a former beta player, Kirito

also joins the clearing groups, right?

However, I don't think the reason why Kirito doesn't go solo

is because he wants it to be less dangerous.

Then, what is it?

It's obvious.

It's because he has you, Asuna.

Kirito, I'm done with my bath.

Huh, where's Argo?

She decided to go back,

and told me to give her greetings to you.

I see.

You guys took quite a while.

What did you talk about?

A talk between girls is not up for discussion!

Wait, this means that Argo and you

had what they call it, a girls' talk?

If you know it, then stop prying!

Moreover, what do you mean by 'this Asuna'?

Sorry. It was just unexpected.

I'll have you know that we didn't have that girls' talk.

Why?

Everyone worked so hard to reach here,

and finally see this beautiful scenery.

And yet, they want to create a feud

between the two groups which are the two biggest guilds.

Even if it will interfere with the clearing of SAO itself.

Besides, that Morte

wants the ALS and DKB to go against each other in a killing spree.

What will this world become then?

The PK group are bad guys like that.

PK?

Player Killers.

They are the murderers of this world.

Asuna, always remember this.

That in this floating ship, Aincrad,

there is always a group absorbed in being the PK,

and ignores the game system.

That's...

Why would they do such a thing?

If they kill the players in this world,

they would also die in the real world!

Yes, that's why they want to be PK here.

They want to kill others.

I'll tell you more another time.

We should focus on stopping ALS from raiding the Floor Boss alone.

About that thing I asked you before, how is it?

It should be okay.

But why do you want to talk

to the person-in-charge of the countdown party from both guilds?

If we just ask ALS,

they might feign innocence.

But I don't think the committee would know anything about this plan.

That's true.

Which is why I took the chance to call them out.

Since it's a party that everyone is looking forward to,

don't do anything rash, okay?

The party, huh?

I think it's all right to look forward to the party.

Since everyone has gotten used to the strategy,

they are able to be in good spirits.

It's something we couldn't imagine

when we were on the first floor.

But with this gap, the PK group,

and the game will take advantage of us.

(New Year Countdown Party to 2023)

-And this? -Over there.

(Closed for a private party)

Sorry to call you out of the blue, Shivata.

No problem.

And...

(Equipment: Small Armet)

I'm part of ALS party committee, Liten.

Thanks for coming!

Sure!

And...

Why is my leader here?

That's right, why are you here?

I'm asking the same question as well.

He was the one who called me.

I wasn't sure that you would actually come.

And so, what do you want to talk about?

I'm a busy man, you know.

If you want to say something, say it now.

To be very blunt,

you ALS members plan to ditch the countdown party tomorrow,

to clear the floor boss all on your own.

Am I right?

Are you serious?

Where did you hear that bogus information from?

I can't tell you my sources.

But I can assure you that it's neither an internal leak,

nor is it bought from the informant.

This is ridiculous.

Nonsense! I'm leaving.

Leader!

Regarding this plan,

I only heard it from my squad leader this morning.

Hey, you! What are you blabbering about?

He mentioned that this was a sudden decision made

from the Executives' meeting.

But I don't want to trash this party

that we all worked hard and prepared for!

Moreover, it is the first joint event between ALS and DKB.

Liten.

Sorry for keeping this from you, Shivata.

Tell us why.

Why did you all decide to ditch the party for this plan?

Since I always do things my way as I please,

I'm not in the position to talk big to you,

but I think that your plan this time is too much.

The rivalry between ALS and DKB will never be resolved.

We really don't want the two big guilds

to get any more hostile with each other.

Fine, I'll tell you.

One of our members caught ear of very valuable intel.

Intel?

They said that the fifth-floor boss will drop a rare item.

A beta player like you would know, right?

The fifth-floor boss?

I think it was a lancer-type of weapon.

No, wait.

I got it!

You're right, that weapon is super powerful.

What are you talking about?

It's a Guild Flag.

A Guild Flag, I see.

What's so great about that?

Weapon-wise, its attack values are no higher than a Long Spear.

But when the equipped player sticks it into the ground,

the surrounding guild members

will get a buff that increases all statuses.

What?

Will the equipped player be able to move around?

What about the buff time limit?

Any limit for the guild members?

When it's in effect, you can't move.

As long as the flag is in the ground, the buff will continue.

There's no limit, as long as they're members of your guild.

Are you serious?

If that's the case, it would affect the players' morale, too.

Assuming ALS were to obtain the flag,

their morale will be boosted,

and DKB's will drop.

If that happens, then DKB will...

It's possible that the leadership will fail

and they will break up.

Was this your intention to beat the boss alone,

to ensure ALS would get the flag?

Is there a reason why you can't have joint management over this?

There must be a reason

why you can't let the Guild Flag be taken by DKB.

You should discuss this with Lind, and share it fairly.

Some of the members brought that up.

But it can't be used under joint management.

The flag can only be registered under one guild.

No changes can be made after that.

It can only belong to either ALS, or DKB.

That's...

After hearing this,

we won't be able to stay quiet.

What are you planning then?

Of course, I will report this to Lind,

and then stop your plan!

If you do that, there will be war between the guilds.

Even so...

Wait up, Shivata!

Liten.

Leader.

Those insisting on this plan

were only a small group of scared members, right?

And to prevent the guild from breaking apart,

you had no choice but to approve this plan.

I'm sure that you don't want to go through with this plan.

Am I wrong?

Is there really no other way?

Liten.

Let's beat the boss ourselves.

If we are the ones to obtain the flag,

we can prevent the fight between both guilds.

That seems to be the only way.

Shivata, I...

I understand. Liten, thanks for being honest.

I'll take part in it, too.

I'll join in, too!

Are you sure?

Joining us means you'll be betraying your guild.

We need both DKB and ALS to clear this game.

I can't let their relations become worse.

Even if I were to betray my guild,

I can't betray the thousands of people on the lower floors

waiting to be released.

Thank you.

Are you done?

If you're done, then I'll leave first.

I'm a busy man.

Tomorrow, I'll have to go beat the boss

with our selected members at 6pm.

It'll be bad if we were late

and someone got ahead of us.

You guys just do as you please,

since you're not the selected ones.

My team will leave at 6pm tomorrow, understand?

Don't get in our way.

Leader...

Thank you, Kibaou.

Hey, he didn't pay for his meal.

Kibaou and his team will make a move at 6pm.

If we hurry our preparations, we might make it.

But with just four of us,

it'll be difficult to take on the Floor Boss.

We need some backup.

Backup...

I don't think I will be able to ask my guild members, too.

Same with me.

The ones that are willing are probably,

the four people from Agil's party, and Argo.

Even then it's just nine of us.

I don't feel certain about this, but we have no choice.

Subject: Regarding the Murderer Wait a minute!

I happen to know of one more person.

(Big-horned Billy Goat)

It has been a while.

Asuna.

Why are you here?

The informant told me about your whereabouts.

She told me that you were gathering materials in this forest.

Seems like you have a skilled informant.

We haven't seen each other since the first-floor boss.

Since then...

You've completely disappeared from the frontline attacks.

Is it because you're mining for materials?

I'm mining for materials

because I want to open a shop to sell my handcrafted items.

I'm now in the midst of my preparations.

A shop?

I was planning on opening a weapons shop.

The lower floors barely drop rare equipment,

but I can use materials to strengthen it.

I see.

In that case, I would be happy

if you sold stylish clothes and accessories too.

Then I'll become your loyal customer!

Hey, Asuna.

I know that as a member of the clearing group,

you didn't simply come to meet me, right?

Yes, I actually have a favour to ask.

Tomorrow, a few friends and I

are planning to challenge the fifth-floor boss.

Due to some reasons,

we need to defeat the boss

before the two clearing group guilds do.

Because of that, we need the help of strong players.

And for the purpose of clearing this game.

Please! Lend us a helping hand.

So it's something important.

Yes, it influences the clearing groups,

this death game,

and even the future of SAO.

Asuna, I won't go.

But why?

I'm going to prioritise myself over the partner that I swore to protect.

I'm that kind of player.

I may abandon my friends, and run away again.

Mito.

I'm sorry.

I don't want to betray anyone anymore.

Asuna, I'm glad to have met you today.

But I won't be able to help you.

Goodbye.

Mito, have a duel with me!

I am no longer an amateur that needs your protection.

Which is why...

If I win this Duel,

fight the boss with me!

Duel Application

Do you want to proceed with this Duel Application?

(Opponent: Asuna Battle Type: 1 vs 1)

Once we're done, you'll go back, right?

(Total Loss Mode, First Strike Mode, Half Loss Mode)

(First Strike Mode)

What's wrong, Mito?

Aren't you going to attack me?

Asuna, you're thinking too much about defence.

You should go on the offence more.

Hey Tozawa, is that the game they had at the game centre?

Yes, they released a smartphone version, too.

I've always regretted it.

I want to meet Asuna here too.

If I didn't say that back then,

Asuna wouldn't be trapped in this cruel world.

Even then, I...

(Winner: Mito)

Hey, can I join you and play?

As expected, you're really strong.

You've become stronger too, Asuna.

I really did my best.

Which is why I also replied earnestly.

Since I lost, I guess you won't be joining us.

But Mito is...

Well then, see you!

Asuna.

Here you go.

My apology for breaking your necklace in that attack.

Did you craft this?

My crafting skills are still low,

which explains the simple design.

No, it's really beautiful.

It's resistant to paralysis and damage, too.

I see!

I will no longer be fighting on the front lines.

Thanks for today.

I'm glad I met you.

Who's there?

Sorry, I wasn't planning on hiding.

Asuna was taking a while, so I decided to check up on her.

I arrived when the Duel started,

so I wasn't able to come out.

And you are...

I forgot to introduce myself.

I'm Kirito. We're partners.

I know. Because you're both famous.

Were you hiding because you were worried for her?

Aren't you being too protective over her?

I can't refute that.

Are you planning to invite me into your plan?

No, I wasn't.

How do I put it...

I think you may have realised.

That if Asuna continues to grow,

she will become even stronger.

Surpassing those in the clearing group.

And so?

Eventually, she'll join a major guild,

and take lead of the attacks in this death game.

But before she can achieve that,

she needs the support of those around her.

Like you and I.

So I see that the rapier she's using now,

seems to be your used Wind Fleuret.

Usually, the specifications of the Wind Fleuret

can't bring you further than the third floor,

but Asuna refuses to let go of it.

When I suggested she upgrade the Fleuret with gold

to create a new weapon,

it birthed that current rapier.

You don't need to waste time telling me these.

It just shows how much she treasures that sword.

To Asuna, you're an irreplaceable friend.

-Well then. -I...

Dislike you.

(31st December 2022 Aincrad Fifth Floor, Labyrinth District Entrance)

(Liten, Shivata)

(Wolfgang, Lowbacca, Naijan)

(Agil, Argo)

What?

Nothing.

It's a boss battle with just nine of us.

We have a solid chance of winning,

and I don't plan on letting anyone get killed.

For the sake of preventing the fight between the clearing groups,

and to the success of Shivata and Liten's Countdown Party.

Everyone, let us do our best!

All right, let's do it!

(Aincrad Fifth Floor, Labyrinth District, Boss Room Entrance)

From this point onwards, I wonder if it will be another passageway,

or the Boss Room directly.

Was it different from the beta?

Yes. Previously, there was a door

that led to the Boss Room once you opened it.

At that time, what was the Floor Boss like?

It was a super huge Ancient Ruin Golem.

Even if the Floor Bosses are similar to the beta,

they definitely made changes to it.

Oh, right! Do you know anything about this Floor Boss?

You definitely forgot that I was an informant, huh?

Sorry.

(Money)

Thanks for your business, is what I want to say,

but I'll give it for free this time.

In a nutshell,

seems like the boss is no different from the beta, a Golem.

There's a crest on its forehead,

and that's the weak spot.

Seems like magic to me.

Plus, it's a fifth-floor milestone boss,

which means it's a formidable boss.

Well, there's no other way but to have a look.

That's right.

Let's assume that it's the Boss Room itself.

I'll go and investigate first.

I've got this covered, leave it to me.

This staircase could rise up from the ground

and block the entrance, trapping us within.

If it happens, I'm able to escape before it fully closes.

Then, let's go together.

I won't back down on this.

Whatever.

Guys, please watch our backs.

Kirito.

Be careful.

It'll be fine. We'll return soon.

Huh, this is the Boss Room, right?

There's no stairway to the sixth floor, too.

No signs of the boss spawning as well.

-Hey! -Maybe we have to move around more

for it to appear.

Argo!

Argo!

Don't come!

-That surprised me! -I should be the one saying that!

We should fall back for now.

Kirito, below you!

Under you!

Darn it, there are two of them?

It's normal to have two arms!

Hey, Kirito!

If it has two arms, then it would have legs too!

Here it comes!

Don't move!

Look down.

See how our legs are just barely missing the blue lines?

So that means if we step on the line,

the targeting circle will appear.

And it will trigger the attacks from the large arms and legs.

I believe so.

If we manage to move around without stepping on the lines...

Hey, are you both all right?

The boss hasn't appeared yet?

Dodge!

Asuna!

(Fuscus the Vacant Colossus)

The boss and the name are different from the beta.

The arms and legs earlier

are the attack techniques of the boss.

If you step on the blue lines on the floor,

the targeting circle will appear!

I'm going to purposely step on the line!

So, get ready to attack with a sword skill!

Yes, sir!

Got it!

Here I go!

The crest on the forehead is its weakness!

If you have a chance, just aim for it!

Let's go!

The third bar!

Everyone, watch the walls!

This is a pattern we haven't seen before.

Is it all right for us to continue attacking the boss?

I do have a bad feeling about this.

Everyone! Fall back from the stairs!

Roger!

Everyone, this way!

Kirito!

The head disappeared?

Shivata!

The stairs...

became its mouth!

Agil!

Start attacking the crest on its forehead!

I can't, the crest is gone!

Wait!

I got it. This whole room itself is the boss!

I'm sure that the crest has moved to a different part of the room.

If we don't find it,

we can't save Asuna!

Darn it!

Where did the crest go?

No matter how much of the room is Golem,

this is...

This is bad. At this rate, Asuna will be...

Darn it!

Asuna!

What's that?

Was there someone else there?

Mito?

Hurry up!

While we still have the chance!

Everyone! Step on the line,

and let the arms and legs appear!

The crest's weak point will appear somewhere there!

-Roger! -Let's try it out!

Okay!

Mito.

I still can't forgive myself.

But I will never let you die, Asuna!

It's no use, I can't find it!

Let's try once more!

I found it!

It's running away!

I hope I can reach it.

Lower your head, Kirito!

Here I go!

Asuna!

How's the damage?

I'm fine.

Then I'm glad.

You can still fight, can't you?

Of course!

It's time to defeat the boss.

How is that different from the beta?

In the beta, the weak point is fixed on the forehead.

But now the pattern keeps changing,

moving all over the body.

That's it!

Impossible!

It's too far!

A locking attack, huh?

We might be able to do this.

Everyone, on the signal, step onto the line.

Once the crest is found, I'll attack it!

We'll leave it to you!

Over here!

What's this?

Fall back!

It's huge!

But with this, we can attack according to our first plan.

Let's work hard to deplete the last bar!

Now! Straight on!

Switch!

Kirito! Seems like the crest isn't moving anymore!

Got it!

Asuna!

The crest on its forehead!

Roger!

Mito!

Asuna, Kirito!

Give us a great last hit!

Roger!

I won't hold back this time!

And with this,

-It's the end! -It's the end!

Congratulations!

We did it.

Hooray!

-Hooray! -We really did it!

Wait up!

Great work, Kirito.

You, too.

Please let me know if you have the Guild Flag.

Hey, everyone.

Kirito.

I don't have it in my inventory.

By flag, you mean this?

That's it!

May I?

Sure, I have no use for it.

Mito.

Asuna.

Thank you for coming.

We should do this again.

That sounds appealing,

but I also want to find it.

The way to live in this world.

Mito.

That's one of the real charms of this world, right?

That's right. If it's you,

you'll definitely be able to find it.

I'll work hard and do my best.

Call upon me again.

I'll definitely come after you.

I'll really rely on you then.

See you again.

See you, Mito.

Equipment, Weapon: Flag of Valor

It's about time for ALS to appear.

Is it really all right for you to not follow the rest to the sixth floor?

I'm not really in a rush,

so I'll tag along with you.

Thanks.

In any case, you managed to defeat the boss.

I'll give you credit for that.

Blackie, what did you do with the item that the boss dropped?

That's right! It should have dropped the Guild Flag.

Yes, it did.

This is that flag.

It's called the Flag of Valor.

I'm guessing that you all know the buffs of it, too.

As expected of Earth's Beater,

you even managed to get your hands on this.

But you're not even in a guild, so what's the point of having it?

It's not that I don't plan on entrusting this to you.

But I have two conditions.

Conditions?

What is it? Go on, tell us.

I say two conditions,

but as long as you fulfil one of them, I'm fine.

If the same item ever drops again,

one belongs to ALS, and another to DKB.

At that time, you need to give it, for free,

to the guild that does not possess this flag.

The other condition?

That ALS and DKB merge to become a new guild.

I will pass over the flag immediately.

There's no way we could do that!

Merging with those elites is no joke!

Try asking them to do this, too!

They'll surely think you're crazy.

-Besides, the flag doesn't drop often! -It's useless to wait that long!

Kirito.

Sorry to say, but I have no intentions of changing my conditions.

Darn it!

I get it now!

He had no intention of giving it to us in the first place.

He threw us impossible conditions,

so he can keep the flag and build his own guild.

-You're wrong! -Is that true?

-We... -Why are you monopolising the item?

-I think that's true, too! -There's no need for us to listen to them!

Kibaou, there are only two of them.

There are many ways to obtain the flag for ourselves!

Are you planning to use brute force, Joe?

Yes, of course!

We have bigger numbers as compared to the two of them.

You big idiot!

No matter how important an item is,

if we use our swords against others like Joe,

then we're no different from criminals.

Try and think harder about why the ALS exists.

Sorry for letting you hear our bickering.

Those conditions earlier,

can I assume that the same was given to DKB as well?

Of course!

If that's the case, you should keep the flag for now.

It's unlikely that we'll merge.

I'll be leaving now.

The gates of the sixth floor have been activated.

If you want to return to Karluin, it'll be faster that way.

Is that so?

Thanks a lot, Kirito.

Gosh, in the end, Blackie is the one raking up all the points.

He's not even in a guild and yet he's holding the rare item.

-It's so unfair. -We also worked hard.

Keeping that cute carrier all for himself,

he should go solo.

Good work, Asuna.

After resting for a while, we should...

Asuna?

Why...

Why...

Why can't they see eye to eye with you, Kirito?

For the sake of the clearing group,

for everyone who is trapped in this world,

we're all putting our lives on the line and fighting.

You were just preventing them from fighting,

and yet those people...

They just stick with their own kind,

doing as they please,

causing trouble for others when it's peaceful.

For those people, Kirito, you...

You fight so hard to the point of exhaustion,

and yet, they treat you like the bad guy!

They've got it wrong...

It's definitely wrong.

Asuna. This was the path I chose.

I decided by myself that I wouldn't affiliate myself with any groups.

I don't fight to receive recognition

or praise from others.

If I am able to protect myself and the people around me,

I couldn't care less about the other things.

All of this is to make sure I can survive in this world.

That's why, to be recognised,

or to be praised,

I don't have the qualifications for that.

You don't need to shed your tears for me.

I will be the one deciding who I cry for!

If that's the case, let me be the one to praise you.

If there's anything I can do for you,

let me know.

Just saying that is enough.

Besides that, can I do anything for you?

Well, sit down for me!

Thank you.

-Five! -Five...

-Four! -Four...

-Three! -Three...

-Two! -Two...

-One! -One...

-Zero! -Zero...

Happy New Year!

Kirito, happy new year!

Happy new year!

I'm surprised that there are fireworks.

I wonder where they're selling it.

I heard that you can buy it at the weapons shop

hidden in the corner, located in the Town of Beginnings.

They said that Liten found the shop.

Well, let's use these fireworks on monsters...

Unfortunately, we can't use this in the Inner Area.

Is that so?

It's already 2023.

I can't believe that two months passed by just like that.

I agree. When I was trapped in the Inn at the Town of Beginnings,

those days felt very long.

And now, every day passes in the blink of an eye.

When I left the Town of Beginnings,

and before I met you,

I thought my weapons were disposable.

I bought so many of the same ones.

Without strengthening or maintaining it,

once the blade dulled,

I would dispose of it in the dungeons.

But that was me in the past, with an ego.

But then I received the Wind Fleuret from Mito,

and thanks to your help, I'm able to forge my current weapon.

And that's how I came to fighting.

Slowly, I began to think,

that I should take more care of myself.

That's why, you should also take care of yourself, Kirito.

Sure.

I'm going to stock up on some bottles and food downstairs.

Let me follow you!

Be careful.

What?

It's nothing.

Is something wrong?

Nope, it's nothing.

Let's hurry up.

It's showtime.

Who are you?

Hey, don't move.

If you move,

I'll plunge the knife into her.

This is the Inner Area.

This intimidation tactic of yours won't work.

Whoa there, get a grip Mr. Blackie.

The Inner Area is until the front garden.

This is the dungeons, where it'll work.

You only have a knife, it won't do much.

As expected, your boldness is amazing.

But what if I applied a level five paralysing and damaging poison to it?

Sound better?

Why are you doing this?

Of course, because it's interesting, brother.

-Interesting? -Yes.

I like to enjoy fun things.

After all, it is the big stage.

I have to prepare things and create excitement.

Now, if we were disturbed, it would be boring.

Let's move locations.

How does the basement room sound?

All right.

Asuna?

Kirito!

Right!

Let's meet again, Mr. Blackie, Ms. Fencer!

There's no poison on this.

As expected, it was a lie.

Why were you so reckless?

If this was really the Outer Area,

he wouldn't move us to the underground.

He would just stab me, no questions asked.

But what if you were wrong?

It's all right.

It's because I have this.

(Equipment, Amulet: Pendant of Anyolite)

No way.

Are you for real, Asuna?

Thank you, Mito.

Anyways, I'm glad we're both fine.

-Just to be safe, let's get out... -Kirito, that man earlier,

could it be that he attacked us because he wanted the Guild Flag?

He did mention 'the big stage'.

And that he was 'preparing to excite things up'.

Could it mean the conflict between ALS and DKB?

Even so, it's too fast.

They just found out about our existence.

He threw us unreasonable conditions,

so he could keep the flag and build his own guild.

One of our members caught ear

-of very valuable intel. -Besides, that Morte wants the ALS and DKB

to go against each other in a killing spree.

Could this be the PK Group?

Morte and his friends...

The possibility is high.

I'm sure the information about us is being spread around.

This world will eventually

become a place for players to kill each other,

and will no longer be a strategy game.

You're right about that. If that's the case,

all the more we need to protect the flag from being taken away.

If it becomes a fight,

I know a certain amount of PK's tricks.

During the beta days,

I've experienced duels with them.

If so, I'll fight, too.

What? I wasn't intending for you to join.

Nope, I've decided!

From now on, I won't let you take on a dangerous role by yourself!

Moreover, we're partners, aren't we?

Just like how you saved me from the basement,

I want to support you, too.

You're right, we're partners.

Let's do our best from now on, too.

Sure!

Let's go, Kirito.

Yes, Asuna.