The Crimson Hunter. SAO X Reader. [DRAFT].

●Chapter 18a: Back to Old Routines.

6 March 2024.
12:00 PM.
Floor 56.
Pani.
(Assault Team meeting place).
Current Level: 70.

It was midday, the weird circular diagram that was the sun was looming above the expansive fields of Floor 56, you were currently sitting on a rock looking outwards, taking in the serenity and beauty of the floor, Natsu sitting on your shoulder as usual. The whole view you had was outstretched to about 5 kilometres, wide open spaces with rocky mounds and the occasional canyon, a few birds had just flown past you, you watch them as they go over another rock, you turn back to your original view, taking in a deep breath and letting the cool wind entrance you as it blew by. It was...peaceful, staring out into the open space filled you with a calm and peaceful feeling. Something you haven't felt in a long, long time. Even if it was in a virtual setting constructed of ones and zeroes, it was still a peace you very much needed.

U/N: The game has got it's ups and downs...but you can't deny the view sometimes, right bud?
Natsu: Skraww!!!

Elanor: I agree.

You and your dragon looked back and away from the serenity, seeing the slender form of Elanor. Her short blonde hair contrasting a shine against the sun. She was holding a smile along her lips as she stood before you.

U/N: Elanor...

You get up from your seat and turn to face her.

Elanor: Sometimes you need a nice view, clears your head and all.

U/N: I assume you're here to tell me to go to the meeting?

Elanor(bored tone): *sighs* Always straight to the point with you. Y'know it wouldn't kill you to try and talk to me, considering I am your guildmate.

You step forward and stopped 4 feet in front of her. You sigh in exasperation.

U/N: Right, sorry...I just, have a lot on my mind.
Natsu: Skraaaaaw!

Elanor: *smiles* It's okay. *turns around* C'mon, the meeting should be starting soon.

She starts walking, you follow and walk beside her, going past rocky obelisks and patches of flowers. You both take a left turn and head down a set of stone carved stairs.

Elanor: We'll be discussing strategies on how to beat the floor boss.

U/N: I'm guessing Asuna's holding the meeting?

Elanor: She always is. Probably going to propose one of her "outside strategies".

U/N: Outside strategies?

Elanor: Yes. She's implemented many interesting methods to beat the bosses of some floors. Using NPC's and the enviroment as an advantage.

U/N: You mean exploiting the game's systems?

Elanor: Is that a problem for you?

You reach the bottom of the stairs, an NPC carrying wheat passes by and waves at you, you wave back in response. You reach another set of stairs, and make your way down.

U/N: No, I've got nothing against it. They're just part of the game, the world and enviroment can't be damaged and NPCs can respawn if they're killed, unlike us.