Wolf Among Sheep (SAO X MALE READER)

The Depths Below

A/n: Hey ya'll Z here. It uhhhh.... it's been a while. I got a good splash of inspiration so I decided to sit down and write for the first time in a long time. For those of you wondering about my health and where I went, I am okay. I've been totally recovered for a while now, I just haven't had the time, the patience, or the motivation to write for a while. Not to mention I've grown up quite a bit, I think I almost grew out of writing this stuff. It's still a fun albeit embarrassing hobby. I also felt like I needed to finish this story. It's probably my favorite that I've written so far and It just doesn't feel right to leave it unfinished. So here we are. I'll try and finish any chapters I can while I have time. And I'm sorry I was gone so long... (-_-')

I love you all and thank you so much for your kind words and support. I really truly appreciate it. And to all of you who left messages on my profile, thank you for trying to check in or reach out. It really means a lot, even though I never replied...

I don't know how many people are gonna read this, but please enjoy, and as always,

Be good people.

Z.

The metallic clanks of boots and greaves echoed through the hollowed halls of the Obsidian Palace. A group of knights clad in white and red matched toward their goal. Heathcliff and Asuna stood at the front, their armor lightly splattered with corrupted blood. The corners of Heathcliff's mouth moved upwards, ever so slightly, almost into a smile as he glanced down at his newly acquired shield.

The mini-boss the Blood Oath knights had fought was a tough one. He was a commander-type boss that used skills to buff his infinitely respawning minions. The boss wielded a large tower shield, which Heathcliff now held, and a great spear with a long standard attached at the end.

Asuna glanced over at her commander's health bar. His HP hadn't dropped below 70% the entire fight. His skill with his chosen weapons had made him almost invincible. It provided a much-needed morale boost to his soldiers. Some of whom had perished during the fighting.

Suddenly Asuna's head perked up.

Asuna: "Commander, I'm picking up friendlies just ahead."

The commander nodded as he too checked his map, seeing a large mass of blue dots in the next room.

Heathcliff: "About time."

The Blood Oath Knights marched into the room, filing into formation behind the Blackstone Legion, their warlord standing at the front. Before them was a massive door. Goopy black corruption leaked out from the cracks, slowly sliding down to the floor. An ominous air filled the room as the guilds prepared themselves for the final area.

Heathcliff: "Stay here and do a headcount Asuna, I have to speak with the other guild leaders."

Asuna nodded as Heathcliff left her side. As he pushed his way toward the front, two legionaries stepped forward and stopped him. Holden and Ademar crossed their weapons, blocking his path. Heathcliff gave them an annoyed look.

From behind them, another voice spoke.

(y/n): "I appreciate your loyalty, but stand down."

The two Blackstone Commanders let out gruff replies as they lowered their weapons and stepped aside. (y/n) gestured for the commander of the Blood Oath Knights to follow him. As they walked, Heathcliff spoke up.

Heathcliff: "What's the status of your troops?"

(y/n): "We haven't had any losses and most of us have rested to full HP and stamina. I can't say the same for some of the minor guilds..."