Turning Back the Clock

Chapter 8: The Recruitment of a Legend

Inventor: The blacksmith shop seems to be coming along nicely. However, I think we might want to start dividing up the team and the groups of players now that they've signed up for what they've wanted to join. Feel free to post updates for the groups on the bulletin board.

Lis: These bulletin board updates kind of remind me of Animal Crossing. *chuckles* But I'm getting ahead of myself. What should we do now?

Ui: Our commander is going to divide us up for various tasks. You'll most likely stay at the blacksmith shop unless we need you for anything. Thanks again for all of your help.

Lis: You're welcome. And thank you for helping me get my shop.

Inventor: So here's the plan. Riko, I'd like you to go around the floor to find and assemble Kirito and his team. You'll know who they are when you come across them. Trust me.

Riko: Ok.

Inventor: But don't dilly-dally with Kirito. He eventually-

Riko: He plays and travels alone. I know, Dad, I know.

Inventor: Ok, ok. As for the rest of you, head back to the shop and prepare for the arrival of the flyers, the bomb squad, and the rescue team.

Team: Yes, sir.

Lis: Who are you guys talking to?

Kiyu: Our commander. He works at a lab back in our home time.

Kez: He's also Riko's father.

Lis: Ok. Small world, I guess.

As the group headed back to the shop, Riko looked on the hills outside of town for anyone who looked like Kirito's team. Eventually, he came across him and his friend Klein.

Riko: Um...hello?

Klein: Hello. Are you the guy who's looking for the elite team members?

Riko: Yes. And you two are exactly who I'm looking for.

Klein: Wow, that's great! I'd be honored to hop onboard. How about you, Kirito?

Kirito: Ehh...I don't know. I've honestly been considering traveling and battling alone.

Klein: What?

Kirito: But don't worry, Klein, I'll still hang out with you.

Klein: Ok, good.

Riko: Wait, Kirito. Before you commit to doing that, might I ask why you're considering doing that?

Kirito: It's just how I play, I guess. We have to protect ourselves while we're trapped in a virtual world like this.

Riko: You are right about that. It's dangerous out there and on the other floors. But could you at least give us a chance? I promise that we will make it worth your while.

Kirito: I don't know.

Klein: Come on, Kirito. It could be fun.

Kirito: How is playing a game for your life fun?

Riko: Just give us a chance, and when we're all finished, you can go back and travel alone. How does that sound?

Klein: Pleeeeease, Kirito?

Kirito: *sigh* Okay.

Klein: Yes!

Riko: Great.

Kirito: So what do you want us to do?

Riko: We haven't found everyone in the team yet, so come down to the new blacksmith shop at the outskirts of town for updates, unless it's the morning. In the morning, we'll most likely be by the fountain.

Klein: Sounds good.

Kirito: Thank you, Mr...what was your name again?

Riko: Riko.

Kirito: Right. I'm Kirito, and this is Klein.

Riko: Nice to meet you, and I look forward to working with you.

Klein: You too!