New World, New Reality

#29: I Knew It

Rin picked a clothe and gave it to Shiro. Fye scanned it as well and bit his lips. "Train is already dead. It is only Shira left who can properly protect Akashi", Fye informed. "We have to make it faster", Shiro informed the rest. Shiro saw Aika trembling so he carried her in piggy back ride. "Aika, snakes are disgusting, arent they?", Shiro asked. "One of the most painful and dreadful snakes arent the big ones... they're actually smaller and then somewhat looks tame", Shiro started giving information. "What do you mean?", Aika asked. "I dont know...maybe... I just think you're the most powerful medicine we can have right now", Shiro looked back and smiled. Aika gripped tighter on Shiro. "We'll be seeing Shira. We'll be going back and finish this. I was just wondering if we could ride the ferris wheel in the real world. Aris told me that he was actually a medicine student. That means he has so many cash", Aika gave a short laugh. "Plus, let's all visit the graves of those who fought well for us", Aika looked at Aris.

"Seems that they've been here", Aris checked the footprints. Aris used his tracking ability to follow the footsteps. It led them to a huge hall.

In the other hand, Akashi and the party are still walking around looking for exits. The ground shook and a huge tentacle went out. Finally, revealing a monster. "Everyone, be in your formation", Akashi commanded. Shira locked a chain on Akashi again. "Dont rush into the battle even if things get worse", Shira said and went at the front liners replacing Train's former position. The octopus swings its tentacle and caught some players. They were still in good shape. They started stabbing the tentacles and giving damage to the Octopus. Shira looked at Akashi commanding what to do.

Flashback

"What do you mean? It's just natural to teach someone", Shira gave a fake smile. "Shiro... also taught me how to strategize and he said to me that it was for future use. When we came back from the raid that caused the Phantom to be wiped out... he finally confronted me. He said he trained me because in case he will be leaving the game, there would be someone to continue it. Now that he taught someone about map making...what do you think of it?", Akashi asked.

Present

Shirayuki's POV

Shiro wont die. He's strong and the odd is in his favor. He wont leave us. He said we would be leaving this place together. The octopus regenerated again. I focused my strength on the sword and gave a final blow which was accompanied by the mage's flames. We finished the task. There was a rare item. It was a yukata similar to what Akashi usually wears. It has a huge points for proctecting. I handed it to him. "I cant always protect you", I pouted. He chuckled and patted my head. A hand held his and this sensation feels familiar. Tears swelled on my eyes. I turned back and saw my guild. My family. My friends. They were waving at me. But.. there was someone missing. I didnt dare to ask right now. The ground shook and was hugged Akashi and felt a stab on my chest. My HP was dropping but I looked in front of me and saw that it pierced deeper on Akashi. I got my sword and chopped of the tentacle. "Everyone, go back to your position. Aika, I need you here", Shiro instructed and continued the commands until the octopuses finally was gone. I was lying on the ground with Akashi on top of me. Aika was healing the both of us. "Shira, now that you knew how to make a map. You should also be able to learn how to be a strategist. I think I'm loosing too much HP here", Akashi said in a weak voice. "Aika, focus the healing on Akashi", I said. "Dont... you'll also lose your HP. I dont mind leaving. I feel satisfied that someone can take my place. And someday, be strong... you might be able to replace Shiro", Akasho closed his eyes. I can feel his weakening heartbeat. "Open your eyes, idiot. I cant replace you! Nor can I be like Shiro! Shiro trained us and taught us so that we could help him! Not to replace him", forget about the ackward position we are in but Akashi was smilling. "I finally was able to protect you", Akashi sighed. Shiro pulled him away from me with his poker face. "Dont get so cozzy with my guild member. You have to ask his dad first", Shiro pouted. Akashi sighed again and bowed.

I finally could stand. A door opened for us and we knew it was a call for home. We entered and was able to exit. Everyone shouted in glee and also mixed emotions were there. We were happy because we are able to make it alive. We were sad for those who didnt. We were excited to enter every door leading us out. We were scared knowing of the consequences. And yet... we decided to keep moving forwards.

LOG Horizon's Zone

Everyone went to sleep except of Shira. She visited the cave and saw the glow worms lively. She heard a footstep. "This is where Naru brought me when I was so upset", Shira said while holding her tears. "He fought well", Shiro said in a calm voice. "What I said a while ago, was trus right? You were teaching us so that we can help you", Shira looked behind and saw Shiro.

His face was telling her that it wasnt that way. "It's always good to be prepared", Shiro smiled. Shira clenched her fist and punched his face. "Why? Why? Why?! I was expecting you to say it will be alright. Shiro, tell me... you will live right? We will finish this together... right?", Shira knelt down. "Shira... I knew it. I wasnt wrong when I chose you", Shiro smiled then left.

The next Days

Things somewhat went back to normal. Fye continued cooking. Aika and Rin are in charge of training for themselves. Akame and Aris are out for some minor missions. Shiro and Shira are at war and never talked to each other even since that night.

Aika went closer to Rin as they were doing some sword training on the grassy plains. "Do you think something happened?", Aika asked. Rin sighed and shrugged. "If something did... it would be Shira who was wrong", Rin commented. Fye cleared his throat as he passed by the two. "Stop making that face and let's prepare for lunch!", Fye grabbed the two of them.

Shiro was watching from his window. Akame went back and gave some ink to Shiro. "Is it about Shira?", Akame asked. Shiro shook his head. "Then apologize to her if you feel bad. I heard you last night", Akame smiled. "Go take a break... and great her a happy birthday fo us", Akame pouted. Shiro got his coat and went out.

Yes!!!

Nearly 30