//------------------------------//
// Episode 61 - Of Crabs and Commanders 
// Story: EQG: Sword Art Online - Aincrad 
// by Mindrop 
//------------------------------//

Front Line - Floor 62
June 13 - Year 2

Bladescape and Doombunny were escorting Gin, Kain, and Mina out of the fields and back to the Town of Beginnings. However, they were not taking them back to the church just yet. It was a dangerous plan, but they were going to take the kids to the sand crabs, so Bladescape could solo them and give the kids a raw level boost. The goal was to get them all to level 30, where they would each get another Skill and each would be exponentially safer hunting in the fields everyday. They were taking several safety measures, including each of the kids always carry a teleport crystal in their hand to use in an emergency. 

As they neared the Teleport Plaza, they were intercepted.

"Hello!" A man called, waving at them.

Bladescape recognized the Aincrad Liberation Force's leader from when she turned the orange guild in. Thinker casually walked over to them. Gin, Kain, and Mina had slid behind Bladescape and Doombunny for protection. They were all too familiar with the uniform, and in a bad way.

"What has you here today?" Thinker asked them.

"A little side project," Bladescape said. "Doombunny gets Colorra's food here. Some of the kids trap rats and mice for her."

"That is cool," Thinker said, still smiling kindly. "I didn't know you could do that. I had heard through the grapevine that two Wondercolts were hunting in the fields outside the city. I wasn't expecting to run into you though. What has you hunting this low?"

"Thinker," Bladescape said, smiling coyly and then stepping to the side. "Meet Gin, Kain, and Mina. They trap the animals. They also help the other kids survive here."

"It is a pleasure to meet you," Thinker said to the frightened kids. "I had heard we had a group of kids here. How are you holding up?"

"Um..." Gin said, hesitating. "Fine, Sir. We are getting by."

Thinker sighed. It was both a sad and relieved sigh. "I am glad to hear that. I can't do everything I want to. We're low on resources and the guild is not as profitable as we once were. The more orange players in prison, the more we have to divert to them. It's not easy running the largest guild. I'm trying to increase our hunting on the higher Floors. I'm also trying to get the fruit catchers under our wing. They are not in a good spot mentally. The same goes for too many other players. I am glad to hear you are doing okay. Reaching everyone is hard."

Gin got bold. "Sir," He said, bowing respectfully. "We have been able to get by. But your soldiers force us to the side, where there are not good spawns. I know you need to hunt, but it is usually just the three of us who can hunt. We can't even put together a full party of six like you can."

Thinker's sigh was one of frustration and despair. "I have heard of problems in the lower ranks. I promise you, that I will address the issue with every member of my guild. They are not to force you out of the area you are hunting. You three are strong and brave to do what you do. And hearing that you are getting by, that is a huge relief. I am trying to help every player I can. I will help you as soon as I can, but if you can keep holding out while I rebuild our hunting process, I promise you I will get you the support you deserve. You keep holding out. I'll tell my soldiers to let you do what you need to do. But I'll let you in on a secret, you three are braver than many of the soldiers I have. And I bet that your levels are higher. They just are bigger and know how to fake it."

"They certainly will be shortly," Bladescape said, turning Thinker's attention back to her. "I'm going to solo a hunting ground on a higher Floor to boost their XP quickly."

"Wonderful!" Thinker exclaimed. "Thank you again Bladescape. I am happy to see they have you helping them. Your guild does a lot for the players from what I understand. It is appreciated how helpful you are to everyone."

"Not everyone," Doombunny spat. "The Divine Dragon Alliance is a bunch of...well they don't like us. They have been outright mean to me. Thankfully they have not put us in a situation where we have to help them."

The central plaza's bell tower rang out four times, telling them all what hour it was.

"I have to go," Thinker said. "I am late. Forgive me. But I will do what I promised."

"Thank you," Mina said, bowing low.

"Yes, thank you," Bladescape said, also bowing.

"Have a good day and happy hunting!" Thinker said.

Thinker began to jog off to where he was supposed to be. Bladescape led them up onto the teleport platform. Bladescape teleported first, then Gin, then Mina, then Kain, and finally Doombunny brought up the rear. Bladescape checked that each kid had the blue teleport crystal in their hand as they stepped off the plaza's platform.

"Keep them in your hand at all times," Bladescape reminded them. "You will be safe, but I don't want us to accidentally miss something simple that could get you hurt."

"I'll keep mine in my left," Gin declared. "So I can draw my sword if I need to."

"It is a pretty calm walk," Bladescape said. "But you are thinking ahead."

The kids dutifully stayed close as they made their way to the beach. The chatter of waiting groups could be heard from a good distance; further than Bladescape could pick up with Search. There had to be at least 15 parties waiting in rotation. Thankfully there were a lot of places for groups to switch out. It shouldn't cause them to wait for too long and Sasha had been sent a message to let her know they would be late.

Bladescape had them stay with Doombunny while she went to the head of the line to make sure they got on the list and see how far down they were. She was not expecting to see that the list was being tended by a Knight of the Bloodoath soldier. However, she smiled when she recognized his orange, shaggy curls. It was the leader of The KOB Team A, Godfree. His body stature was hard to mistake because he was one of the wider shouldered players with a strong chest. He also was a fun loving man with a good heart. It was very difficult to have a problem with him, let alone hate him.

"Hey!" Godfree called out in warm greeting when he saw her. "Well if it isn't my favorite Wondercolts! How are you?"

"Good," Bladescape said, giving him a warm smile back as she shook his hand. "I'm on an unofficial guild side mission right now. Party of 5."

"Got yah covered!" Godfree winked as he wrote her down. "The other Wondercolts party left here not too long ago."

"Thanks. I know one came here to train and the other was taking a whack at the boss Labyrinth."

Another familiar KOB member sidled up beside them. It was Commander Heathcliff. Outside of planning meetings or boss fights, Bladescape had never seen him in a normal game situation. 

"Hello, Bladescape," He said in his usual smooth tone. "I see you have an interesting party with you."

"It's a two-day long story," Bladescape said, deflecting the topic. "But I have never seen you at a training site."

"The guild is behind on its leveling quotas," Commander Heathcliff calmly explained. "I am a member of the guild, so it stands to reason, even I must follow that rule. However, I still am interested in your side project. They are not Wondercolts. And they clearly are not of any substantial level. Which makes your choice to party up with them very... intriguing."

Bladescape sighed. She knew she wasn't going to be able to divert things away from their current situation. "Cutting a long and immensely complicated story short, Doombunny gets Colorra's fresh food from a small group of kids who are being cared for by a young adult woman named Sasha. This is all in the Town of Beginning and being run out of a church there. Most of them have not handled the shock of being trapped in SAO well. None of them can be older than 14.Some, like those three, are able to hunt in the fields outside the town for Col and materials so they can buy the basics for them all to live. A few others do errand runs for cash. They are being taught how to be self-sufficient because in life, you generally don't just get things handed to you. You have to earn it. At least for the average person.

"Anyway, we got the food for Colorra, spent the night in a spare room and we have spent today hunting with the kids and giving them instruction on how to be better at working together and safer while they hunt. They got new, better, gear I had laying around in my inventory that would work for them, and they are now quite good at switching. They already were good, but they are even better after our instruction."

Bladescape stiffened up, ready to drive it all home with her declaration. "However, it is time for the cherry on top. I'm going to solo the crabs and let them reap the XP. They can barely get any XP doing the amazing job they are doing, so I wanted to give back as much as I can before we have to leave them tonight. We won't get a chance to do anything for them again. I wish we could, but the best thing we can do for them is focus on clearing the game. So, we are being as kind and generous as possible in the short time we have, while still teaching them valuable life lessons. Just like Miss Sasha insisted. To be extra safe, each of them is holding a teleport crystal, which is not to leave their hand, and they will use it if things get too close. Their safety is top priority. We are just trying to raise their daily safety margin so that at the end of this nightmare, they get out alive; along with the other kids they help."

"You Wondercolts are amazing, always willing to help others," Commander Heathcliff stated. "Any time, any way. It is inspiring. You see things differently than most players, and certainly differently than almost every player on the front line. I had no idea there were kids barely getting by. I thought the Army would be taking care of them."

"They have their own problems," Bladescape stated, leaving it there. "They were early on, but I understand the guild is massive now and struggling to stay afloat under its own weight while also maintaining the prison. Too many don't put anything into the guild, only draining resources."

"Well, I want to join in your generosity," Commander Heathcliff declared. This time his smile was truly warm and kind. It didn't hide anything behind it. "I can't stand to see a player struggle like they are. Trying to take up the sword to care for others, but knowing that it is impossible to level up if you sacrifice in such a manner. Godfree, put them in my Party's place at the head of the list. Let us get them into rotation faster so they can go home. You are lucky you came when you did. We are in the next group to rotate in."

"Yes, Commander!" Godfree said with a salute. His metal armor made a scraping clack as it moved and rubbed at the semes.

Bladescape bowed, remembering the general custom. She usually remembered to bow in formal occasions, especially around men and women like Commander Heathcliff. "Thank you, Commander." 

"Think nothing of it," Commander Heathcliff replied.

"Good luck with your leveling," Bladescape added.

He just gave a silent nod with a thin smile on his lips in reply.

Bladescape got back to the others, but she decided to skip the conversation with the Commander. The kids had all been distracted with Colorra and they had drawn a crowd. A good number of other players were paying attention to the snake and her handler. Most of them had heard of Doombunny and Colorra, but they had not gotten a chance to actually meet them. And they were currently meeting a very kind and soft Doombunny. Plus, it was boring waiting for their turn.

"Hey!" A man said to Bladescape, extending his hand to be shaken. He was excited and nervous as she shook it. "I'm Helot. I'm a big fan of all of you. I've seen you a few times, but, but getting to meet the amazing Bladescape and Baipagaru, this just made my day."

"Nice to meet you," Bladescape said with a warm smile. "But Baipagaru?"

"Oh, it's Japanese for Viper Chick." He said before he started to stutter a bit with nerves. "I know that it was tossed around as a bad thing a while ago. But her duel changed that. She, she really, it's a good name. Cause, you know, she has the same guts as her snake. They fight together as one. That's what it means. Not that she slithers and slinks around in the shadows. It's why we chose a Japanese name for her."

"I can accept that," Bladescape assured him, flashing him a warm smile.

"Next up!" Godfree called out over the crowd of bored players and halting all the conversations. "The party led by Pillair, the party led by Schmitt, and the party led by Bladescape. Come see me for location designations."

"Gin, Mina, Kain," Bladescape said, snapping her fingers to get their attention. "Let's roll. The clock is on, our hour here has started."

The four of them scrambled up to follow after Bladescape. Colorra slipped up to Doombunny's shoulders so they could move faster. There was some confusion by the others about their sudden arrival and then their party name being called. No doubt Godfree would have to answer to a few angry players. Bladescape ignored it. The kids were the important thing and all that mattered. They were still diligently holding onto their blue teleport crystals.

They got to Godfree who instructed them which area they had assigned. Commander Heathcliff was close by. He nodded at Bladescape with a warm smile as they passed by. Bladescape nodded back as she drew her sword. She wasn't going to take any chances as they approached the deceptively calm sandy shore.

Doombunny stopped the kids before Bladescape could. They were far back from the shore, safe. She was on one side, while Colorra was on the other. Doombunny knew the safe targeting distance from the crabs, but they were not going to take any risks.

"Are you sure there isn't anything I can do?" Gin asked.

"A hit will kill you," Bladescape said. It was a calm warning, but it probably was a lot colder than she intended it to be. However, they had fought with and under her for the day. They had seen her true kindness and patience, and they trusted her.

Bladescape edged to just outside the targeting zone. She had to wait for one to respawn. Her blade was out, forward towards where they would spawn. It was relaxed, but ready as she gripped it with both hands in a stable forward stance.

The next crab shell surfaced as it respawned and Bladescape yelled her war cry as she leaped forward. She brought Harmonic Salvation up, overhead, and activated Avalanche. A simple overhead Two-handed Sword Skill, but it had a short delay and was effective. The sword's weight split the shell and stunned the crab. It only back pedaled a foot before the blade was thrust through its face, reducing it to colorful polygons.

That was the only solid blow she got in before the crab dance began. Bladescape knew it well and skipped around the side, using minimum effort to quickly target the few weak points and exploit them with a cold efficiency. All the late nights soloing the crabs paid off as she quickly cut them down until the respawn entered its cool down period. 

As she sat down with the others to wait out the next respawn, Gin asked his question. "You did not use the Sword Skills you were using earlier against the boars and wolves."

He was annoyingly right. But earlier today, she wasn't being watched. Kirito was correct, no matter what the Greatsword Skill actually was, she currently had to protect that knowledge. But she had to tell Gin something to answer his question, and she wouldn't lie. At least not directly.

"Different enemy, different approach," Bladescape shrugged before she lounged back onto her elbows. "Their shells offer specialized protection, but their maneuverability is poor. The Boars and Wolves have very low HP compared to these guys. Here you need agility and timing. Earlier I was doing one hit kills. I could afford to use higher level techniques that gave a different delay penalty for using the Sword Skill.

Kain was excited about what they were there for. He blurted out his interruption. "I shot up two levels from your attack! Just sitting here, you got me two whole levels!"

Bladescape sighed contently and checked her internal clock. "Good. That is the whole point of us being here. To get you the levels you haven't been able to earn."

"And the Col is amazing," Kain added, as he scooted up beside her. "We will eat well for a week just from your time against the crabs!"

Bladescape smiled at the joy in his face. It was the happiest she had seen him. The past 24 hours had probably been the best he had experienced since this death game began, cutting him off from all he loved and cherished.

Bladescape listened to their chatter as she paid attention to the clock. She was up and ready, right on the edge of the targeting range as the crabs began to respawn. However, she switched to Bajutsu, just to see how the sword would fare. It was put on her belt instead of her back. She darted in with a powerful thrust, catching the first one in the face and scoring critical damage which ended its existence. She was too well rehearsed at killing the sand crabs to not take advantage of that opportunity.

When Bladescape finished the last crab in that respawn time block and turned to head back, she saw they had a visitor. A scruffy faced one she was well acquainted with.

"Klein!" Bladescape said as she got to them. "What has my favorite Samurai here with us?"

"Leveling, just like everyone else," Klein said. He flashed her a thumbs up and winked, meaning the next words were going to be some tacky pick up line. "But all the waiting around finally got some beauty to it and is less boring now that you have arrived."

Bladescape didn't roll her eyes this time. There was something different in the way he said it. Or maybe because, after working all day long with the three kids, she wanted a bit more attention or adult interaction. She was worried about Gin, Kain, and Mina though. They were her top priority. It was nice to be noticed and appreciated after all she did.

"It's been quite and odd with all the Knights of the Bloodoath here," Klein stated. "I guess they really are having to push to level up. But even Commander Heathcliff is present. And Lightning Flash Asuna is here too."

"Well, Commander Heathcliff did sacrifice their spot in the lineup for us," Bladescape said. "He wanted to give something to the kids in a way that mattered. And getting us into the rotation next was what he could immediately give. They have worked hard all day long. They need the rest. The three of them have gotten more XP than they have ever reaped in a month just from what I dragged up killing the crabs."

Klein's eyes darted in the telltale sign that he was looking at the clock in the corner of his vision. "Speaking of that, I have 2 minutes until ours respawn. I'll catch you later. Maybe grab lunch. Even as awesome as AFCK's cooking is, maybe we could talk. You know, guild leader to guild leader."

"Sure," Bladescape said with a grin on her face.

Klein left and it was Mina who unexpectedly asked the question. "Is that a date? Are you two dating?"

"No," Bladescape said as she sat down in the sand. She opened her window and pulled out water. "It's not a date but our two guilds are good friends. There is always some business to discuss over a meal."

The end of their hours brought several good things to fruition. Gin was level 33, Kain was level 32, and Mina was level 30. Bladescape also had been bumped up a level. The King Black Dragon had given her a ton of XP. But the others didn't know she had gained a level because they were celebrating the kids earning more levels.

"That means Mina can add Tailoring as a Skill and not lose her One-handed Sword Skill!" Gin exclaimed, elated. He understood how important diversity could be.

"Yes!" Mina agreed. She loved the spear and she had rapidly developed it as a skill, but it still was under the other and she didn't want to wipe the skill either after all the hard work she had put into it. Bladescape had a better sword she could give her as well.

"I think Diemond has old sewing supplies stashed somewhere," Bladescape said. "Come on. Let's go to our headquarters and we can get them."

They checked out with Godfree. Commander Heathcliff was discussing something with him and another KOB soldier, but they stopped as they approached. Bladescape bowed low to show as much respect and thanks as possible.

"Thank you, Commander. We raised Gin, Kain, and Mina several levels each. They now are above 30. They are going to be a lot safer helping out the others. Your generosity with switching out with us is beyond words at this time."

The kids recognized what he had done for them and they also bowed, thanking him.

"It was my pleasure," Heathcliff replied with a warm smile to the kids. "I heard you have been working hard to take care of others. A noble job in life."

"Miss Sasha will appreciate it," Gin added. "And so will the others. They are too afraid to hunt, and I understand why. Watching Bladescape kill the crabs, this world has many dangers we are not ready to face. And I am okay with that."

"You all have a good day," Commander Heathcliff said. "I have guild business I need to discuss and we are next in the rotation."

They all bowed one last time and then rushed off. They didn't get far before Klein intercepted them. Fuurinkazan wasn't with him. "Hey, Doll Face. Leaving so soon?"

Bladescape smiled and shook her head at his antics. "Got to get the kids back, and make one stop in between. They do actually have a bedtime."

"Miss Sasha would wave it if we are with you," Kain protested.

"I know," Bladescape said. "And I am certain that you will be late for that already."

Klein joined them as they walked out through the fields to the closest teleport plaza.

"Giving up?" Bladescape asked Klein.

"Eh," he shrugged. "I've been here all day. I'm bored out of my mind. It's been profitable, but with the KOB everywhere, it has an odd vibe."

"I felt that," Doombunny said. "Don't they usually level in dungeons and the less popular areas?"

"That is the impression I got," Klein said. "So they must be far behind in their quotas to be using a well known location."

"And how are you doing?" Bladescape asked.

"Behind, like everyone else. This Floor Boss is going to have to wait a few more days. We haven't really entered the labyrinth yet, but most of the Assault Team are level grinding, along with half the clearers...what is a few extra days anyway?"

"For us, nothing," Bladescape said. "For the players like the kids, a long time." 

Klein sighed, defeated. "You're right." He perked up. "But hey, I saw you using a different sword than Harmonic Salvation. A small one. What is up with that?"

Bladescape chuckled. "Remember Floor 60, when we met there? I told you about horse riding and questing. I needed something I could wield on horseback, but I only have two-handed sword. Bajutsu is a light and short two-handed blade meant for use on horseback. Do not discount its power though."

"Interesting," Klein shrugged. "I don't even want to try riding a horse."

"Surprising for someone as lazy as you are," Bladescape fired back.

"Hey!" Klein protested. "Only work as much as you have to. That is an important lesson. If riding horses is half as hard as I have heard it is, they are not worth my time."

"I did spend a day with a master equestrian in the real world," Bladescape admitted. "That is why I could ride and do that quest."

Klein walked out with them. He claimed that it was because he wanted to be extra security for the kids. Technically they were walking through areas that were populated by monsters. But their spawns were rare because of the high foot traffic. If anything popped up, it was quickly killed by passersby. Having Klein's sword was still very appreciated. It was extra security for such precious cargo.

The precautions came to nothing as they entered the town's safe zone and everyone was able to relax. Bladescape let the kids keep the blue teleport crystals, despite their value. That way, they each had one if they ever needed it. Klein was sticking by them though. He joined Bladescape on the teleport plaza.

He answered her question before she could ask it. "Cupcakes, Doll Face. You are going to your HQ. Your HQ has AFCK. And it always has those delectable cupcakes she makes."

Bladescape was about to playfully chastise him for the self invitation, but then she groaned as the greater implication of the situation became obvious. "Now I want cupcakes," she said as she playfully punched him in the arm. He yelped a bit and rubbed where she hit him. "That is what you get for making me realize that I haven't had cupcakes in a day and a half. I seriously think she drugs them with more than virtual sugar."

Both of them laughed as they teleported to Mishe. The kids were right behind them. Doombunny popped out just as they stepped off the platform. Gin, Kain, and Mina were impressed with a town like Mishe. They only knew the Town of Beginnings. Mishe was quite a bit different. They marveled even more when they realized the building with the glorious banners was where they were headed. The only guild headquarters they knew of was the Black Iron Palace, which the Army had occupied. It wasn't fancy and glorious like the Wondercolts' headquarters.

They stepped inside to the warmth of the waiting room. Bladescape opened the interior doors to the guild hall for them all. It was empty, but there was a plain box on the table, right in front of her spot. For now, the box didn't matter. Bladescape had no idea who was partied with who, or where anyone was.

"I'll check upstairs," Doombunny said.

"And we will meet you either in the kitchen, or Diemond's crafting room," Bladescape replied. "But probably the kitchen."

Klein stuck with Bladescape and the kids because they were headed to the kitchen. As they opened the door out of the guild hall, Bladescape could hear Diemond talking to herself as she worked. That was good because they needed access to her old stock that would help Mina get further ahead with Tailoring and regain what she had lost.

But the real party was AFCK's laughter in the kitchen. She was baking and wearing a very cute baker's dress that was borderline dangerously short. It was matched with pink stockings to balance the length out, and there were plenty of ruffles and frills to it. However, she was missing her layer of flour. Joltron was laughing with her. His back to them as he sat on the island beside a busy AFCK. AFCK had the kitchen cleaner than usual too.

"Hey," Bladescape said, announcing their presence.

Joltron looked over at his shoulder out of habit and then he jumped off the counter in shock. He was in his sleepwear. While it was more than appropriate, he wasn't expecting to be caught in it by guests, even as early as it was in the night, and even more so by kids. He composed himself rather quickly. As the focus was taken off his actions by AFCK being AFCK.

"Nice to meet yah!" AFCK exclaimed with a bounce. "I'm AFCK. And you are Gin, you are Mina, and you are Kain."

The kids just nodded. They were shocked she knew their names. They didn't know that their names had not been shared to the others, or that only vague information about their little side journey had been given. And no info on the King Black Dragon had been passed along either.

"Cupcakes?" Klein asked, butting in and getting straight to the reason he was in attendance.

"Got more in the oven," AFCK smiled. "But if you give me a second I'll have the other half of this dozen frosted and sprinkled!"

AFCK pointed the frosting bag on the other half of the cupcakes, and with a skill only honed by real life experience had each frosted perfectly in a swirl in an instant. The sprinkles were dashed on top and she slid the tray across the long Island. It stopped right where she wanted it to in front of Klein, but not threatening to go over the edge.

"They are fresh and hot," AFCK warned.

Klein didn't listen as he grabbed one and was forced to juggle it. Taking a bite didn't help either. He was left with burning hands and a burning mouth as everyone laughed at him.

Gin reached for one himself, daring to risk the heat for a treat he hadn't had since he was marooned inside Aincrad.

"No cupcakes for kids before dinner," AFCK said, a harsher tone on her than normal. But she reached over to the counter and grabbed two bowls and a plate. She slid them over to the kids. Like the cupcakes, they stopped exactly where they were supposed to.

"Gin, I tracked down how to make traditional Japanese Ramen a while back, so I made your favorite. As best as I can in game. Mina, curried chicken and rice, just like your mother makes for your father who is a member of JMDSF and enjoys even when he is not on rotation on a ship. And Kain, that is the closest I can get to a burger, just like you like it."

The kids were digging in and did their best to thank her with stuffed mouths. They were too focused on their personalized meals to realize that AFCK had no way of knowing what their favorite foods were. And that was on top of her not knowing they were coming. Bladescape wasn't even sure if they would stop in at their HQ until Mina hit Level 30, which was right as Bladescape finished the last few Sand Crabs in their time block.

Diemond came in with Doombunny. Diemond was wearing her idea dress, as expected, since she was working on a line of clothing to sell in a second clothing sale she was planning.

"Bunny caught me up," Diemond said. "As quick as one can in 2 minutes. I have what you need. But first, AFCK has not made dinner for us yet. I want a cupcake."

"Any idea on the other Wondercolts?" Bladescape asked. The three of them got quiet.

Bladescape focused on Joltron to get him to crack as she narrowed her gaze at him. He broke quickly and explained the situation. "We are not sure when they will be back. I expect it to be a few more hours. The three of us did a few rounds at the Sand Crabs, but the KOB presence was odd. Anyway, they are deep in the dungeon, mapping and clearing. So, like I said, it's still early for them to be back.

"But the bigger issue is that last night, there was a guild meeting. Thunder called it. She wanted to put a replacement member on our Council."

Bladescape nodded in understanding and to encourage him to continue.

"Two players were settled upon: Kiefer and Astro. We took a written and secret vote and our ballots are in the box on the table. We haven't looked at them. BB never said a word the entire time. She let Thunder lead it. Diemond was Thunder's opposition. BB is waiting for you to discuss it. She literally never said a word or reacted to anything the entire time. She is always the quiet member, but it got eerie, almost scary how quiet and blank she was. But our parties today were not based on the discussion or our perceived votes. We stayed clean and focused."

"Politics suck," Klein said as he finished his fourth cupcake and reached for his fifth. Thankfully AFCK was in the middle of pulling out two more baked trays of cupcakes.

"We will get it sorted out," Bladescape said. "Bunny, we will let you vote if BB and I decide a popular vote is even necessary. I don't know what we will do."

Kain just shook his head at the adult talk and grabbed the last cupcake. He was finished first so he got the reward. No doubt it would have been different if it no more were being made.

"Klein, Joltron, supervise them for a moment," Bladescape told him.

"You mean baby sit?" Klein protested.

Bladescape let out a laugh. "They are not babies and it means you are earning those cupcakes."

"Fine," he said, as he crossed his arms and leaned back against the wall while the kids ate.

They went to Diemond's work room and then Bladescape focused on Diemond first. "Diemond, what can you give Mina. She had a Tailoring skill of 137. She worked very hard to earn that. We swapped it for another offensive skill. I promised her we would get her back to there and double if it didn't work out. She got a new Skill Slot, so even better."

Diemond thought for a moment. "I could part with a few things that would level her up to that spot and further if she does things right. I also have a book of simple designs I have been sketching. I can copy it and she can take that, along with my guide from Knightstar. I have no need for that anymore."

"Much appreciated," Bladescape smiled. "We want to give them everything we can. As well as everything Sasha can use to keep the other two dozen kids fed and cared for. I wish we could do more, but we could devote our life to them and then we would not be able to be on the front line."

"I have plenty of good bread I can pack them," AFCK added. "And flour, eggs, milk, pudding, and other basic cooking ingredients. In no time one of them could be a decent chef. I've been prepping the past two days for them. That is why I went with Diemond and Joltron to only train and not fight in the labyrinth. Their porridge tomorrow morning will be the best they have ever had in Aincrad. Or real life!

"Well, technically, I went with Diemond, and Joltron followed me. He has a crush on me. He thinks he has a shot at me."

"You should let him down easy," Bladescape advised her.

"Why?" AFCK shrugged. "I haven't decided. Sooooo, until I do, he has a shot."

AFCK got off track as she continued to talk. Bladescape rolled her eyes and let her run her mouth and mind for a moment before she stopped it. "Let's just get them set up and then Doom and I will get them home."

As they got back to the kitchen, the kids were depressed and sorry, like they had committed a horrible crime. Mina was the one who spoke. "We beg your apology. We ate without thinking. It was absolutely fantastic, the best we have had since being trapped here, but now we realize that the others, they got to eat half stale bread and other stuff that wasn't as good. We should have at least thought about them."

"Brave, caring, and smart," Bladescape said with a warm smile. All of the Wondercolts, and Klein, were smiling at the kids. "Don't worry. We are bringing food for them. In the morning they will eat very well.

"You spirit, your mindset, your everything you have shown Bunny and I today, it has earned you guys our deep respect. We wish we could do more, but the absolute best thing we can do for you is beat this game so you are no longer stuck here. You guys earned your armor and weapons upgrades. You earned your Col, and you earned the gifts we are going to give you for the others.

"Miss Sasha is right, in life you don't get things handed to you. But sometimes, people are generous to you when they see how hard you work. You should work hard and do your best because that is what a true man or woman of integrity does. Trust me, it shows and it makes a difference to everyone around you. But never expect a reward, and reward anyone you can for the job they do. Even if all you can give is a smile and a few kind words. We have more than that for you, because we judge you for what you do and your worth in a different way. And we have more than you guys understand. Mina, I have a sword for you so that you have an equally strong weapon if you switch back from spear.

"Now, while AFCK packs the food. Let's get you guys loaded up with Mina's Tailoring gear."

"Hey! I have a question," Gin said. Bladescape nodded for him to continue. "Well, can you and I become friends?"

Bladescape grinned and opened her menu. Gin, Mina, and Kain became her newest friends. Doombunny also friended them. They had just transcended past business partners to friends.

As Diemond was digging out the stuff in the back of a closet, Kain asked his own question. "What is this ring?"

Diemond heard the question and tried to exit to properly address it. She hit her head on the shelf above her, eliciting a yelp of pain. She finally got out and saw where Kain was and what he was looking at. She answered as she rubbed her head to try and minimize the pain.

"Oh that? Yes, it is a ring. An enchanted ring. It's a weak enchantment though. I don't know what I will do with something so weak as..." Diemond grinned as she realized she could unload a few items, which were on the low spectrum and not worth the materials she had put into them, onto the kids. They were cluttering up her storage, but they sold for only a few pieces of Col. However, for Gin, Kain, and Mina, it would make a huge difference. "I guess I could part with a few pieces for you guys. After all, from what I hear, you have been working very hard and would make excellent use of them. A much better use than them sitting in my room here and taking up space."

Diemond put the spare materials in a pile on an already cluttered table and then she began to sort through the unruly pile of jewelry. Some of the necklaces had tied themselves into knots while they sat there. She had way too much, and Jewelry wasn't something that was recyclable like armor and weapons. She had sold all she could to Agil, but even he wouldn't take some of them. None of the pieces were of her finer work, design wise, but they did the job. She pulled out three horse necklaces she had done early on. One for each of them. The boys also got two simple, copper, banded rings, and Mina got teardrop quartz earrings.

"Gin, +1 Strength ring, +1 Attack ring, and +50 Health necklace. Kain, +1 Defense ring, +1 Strength ring, and +50 Health necklace. Mina, the necklace is the same as the boys, +50 Health Points. But your earring set is +2 Attack. They have to be worn in a pair, but at least they look the same. And quite lovely if I say so myself."

"I'M ALL PACKED!" AFCK yelled, barging in to make the announcement.

Diemond gave Mina the materials. She was right at her weight limit, without an ounce to spare. That meant the boys had to carry the food. It also maxed their weight limit. Bladescape and Doombunny split the rest that they couldn't carry. They were making them, appropriately, work for what they had earned. They were not going to rescue them with their significantly larger carry weight limits.

"We won't be long," Bladescape assured the others. "We just have to drop them and everything else off and then we will be back."

The kids said goodbye. Klein left with them, but this time he teleported back to the Sand Crabs, flashing his goofy smile with a thumbs up to Bladescape. He also restated that he wanted that meal with her soon to "discuss guild business." Bladescape shook her head, unable to resist a smile, but agreed. Klein had grown on her over the months. They were not players partnering up out of necessity anymore. They were friends. He was too lovable to say no. And the playful flirtation was fun. It also made her feel good. Goofy good.

They teleported back to the Town of Beginnings. It was dark and late. It was quite in the church. Gin let them in without knocking. They found Sasha waiting for them in the main hall. She was trying to not be nervous as she waited for them to get back. She ran to them and embraced Gin, Kain, and Mina at the same time.

"I was trying to not be worried," She said as she hugged them. "I knew you were safe. How did it go?"

"We got equipment upgrades!" Gin exclaimed.

"And jewelry!" Mina added. "Enhanced jewelry that their guildmate Diemond couldn't sell because it was so low level. But it's a huge boost for us!"

"Keep it down," Sasha hushed them. "I know you are excited, and you should be, but the others are asleep and I want to keep it that way."

"They took us to the hottest training location where Bladescape soloed these giant sand crabs," Kain added, much quieter. "We didn't fight, but since we were in the party with her, we got free XP."

Sasha looked at Bladescape, concern and mistrust in her eyes, despite it being obvious how much she was internally begging her eyes to be thanking them for all they did.

"It wasn't as dangerous as it sounded," Doombunny assured her. "It was safe, and they always had a teleport crystal in their hand in case something went wrong. There also were a lot of high level and very skilled players around. If something went wrong, they would have jumped in and helped. And the three of them promised to follow our every order. I stayed with them and Bladescape has soloed the Sand Crabs plenty of times before. She was safe, the kids were safe, and everything was fine.

"What is most important is that they all are at least level 30. We replaced Mina's Tailoring with One-handed Spear and now that she is 30, she has locked Tailoring back in."

"Oh Mina," Sahsa sighed, looking at the young girl. "That wiped the skill. You were very brave to do that."

Mina grinned back at the downtrodden face. "They gave me materials to fix that. I will be at the same level in no time. Diemond had plenty of extra materials that she gave me."

"And food!" Gin exclaimed, forgetting to be quiet. Sasha didn't have to give him a verbal reprimand as he immediately realized his mistake.

Bladescape took over for him. "We had to go to our headquarters anyway. So they are well fed. And we have donation food. Both high durability prepared food and fresh ingredients. You guys can cook fresh food for a day or two and enjoy a tasty break."

Sasha was distracted as she gave her thanks. "You leveled them up to 30?"

"Mhm," Bladescape nodded.

Sasha switched gears and got the food to the kitchen where it was safe. Then she sent the three of them off to bed. Only then could she address what was actually on her mind.

Kain came running back in a moment later with a sack in his hand. "Sorry, Teach. We forgot to give you the Col we got. The crabs dropped a ton of it."

Sasha's eyes went wide as she took the heavy sack. Kain was gone before she could reply.

"I'll give them each some back so they can spend it," Sasha assured them. "Thank you. All you did for them, even the dangerous leveling, is appreciated."

They sat down at the "adult table." Doombunny pulled out from her menu half a dozen cupcakes for them to snack on. They smelled as fresh as they were. Sasha immediately grabbed one, trying to not look greedy or overly excited. She had to be a calm, composed, role model for the kids.

"They will be much safer now as they hunt outside the city," Bladescape assured her. "Besides, as we left we had a friend join us in escorting them through the picked clean fields. Enough players go through that any spawns are killed fast. And my Search Skill is maxed. I would have caught anything before it became a problem.

"And don't worry about anything we gave them. They earned it all. They showed bravery, initiative, and a willingness to learn. Their self-sacrifice was inspiring too. We were moved to the head of the line because a party next up switched with us so the kids could get the XP quicker, instead of waiting a few hours. We wouldn't be back right now if the switch didn't happen. They inspired that generosity from Commander Heathcliff, the leader of the Knights of the Bloodoath. It wasn't out of pity, but inspiration for all they do for the other kids."

"I can't believe it," Sasha admitted. "I know you are not lying, but I can't believe it. It's not something I can comprehend."

"But you were going to say something else earlier," Bladescape said as she grabbed another cupcake.

Sasha sighed and hesitated. Her eyes looked down at the table in shame. They let her take the time to gather the courage to ask.

"Can you take me to level me up? I'm barely level 27. It's not that I have a problem with Gin, Kain, and Mina being above me. I just want to be strong for them. I want another Skill I can apply to them. I don't get a lot of chances to level up caring for them. Although, there is a Family Skill and a Teacher Skill. Those are steadily moving up."

"Family Skill?" Bladescape asked, shocked to hear that both Skills existed, despite the claim that SAO was a game with an unlimited number of Skills.

"Mhm," Sasha nodded. "I'm not entirely sure how it works. I do know that there is a way in your menu to disable the 'Moral Code.' You can remove or swap out undergarments, and even do, uh…adult things, with others who have switched that button to off. It is buried deep to protect the kids and others from accidentally disabling it. And it can obviously be a problem if you switch it off and then end up in certain...adult problems. I have not disabled mine, but I assume it was added to put even more realism in the game as we live in this new reality."

"That's..." Bladescape stuttered and then stopped as she leaned back in her chair. It was scary to think about that side. The code was there to protect players. Being able to disable it for yourself made the game entirely different. She doubted she could flip the switch on her own.

But then Kiefer and Lessa came to mind. If they both were back at the same time as they went to bed, they shared a room, but if they were in different parties and one was back or in bed before the other, they slept in separate rooms. It didn't bother any of the Wondercolts because they could only share a physical bed together. But if they got married, they would probably switch to one room. They were still uncomfortable with going that far in the game, as they should be for the short time they had been dating.

Despite that, did she have to tell them? Should she? Could she? They were under 18, so did that make it morally wrong? Bladescape pushed it out of her mind for the time being. If they got married, and she remembered, she would tell them. But only then unless something happened to persuade her to not tell them.

"We can certainly help you level up," Doombunny said, actually on track and bringing Bladescape back to focus on the conversation.

"Sure," Bladescape shrugged. “It will be fun. I can do more with you than I could with the kids. You will actually work for the levels, which I think you will prefer. I can trust that you can make the right split-second decisions if we push you a bit. And of course, train you to make the right ones. Let me just send a few quick messages out."

Bladescape keyed up her menu and sent a guild wide message. "Meeting ASAP. BBS." She didn't stop there as she pulled up her friend list and found Klein. Because they were only friends, she had to be concise. There was a strict limit on message size for guild members, and it was stricter between just friends. "Klein, want 2 pull a spcl train sess 2morrw w/ me? 6am, WHQ." She sent it. The sand crabs were not an actual dungeon, so they could get messages.

"I have a plan," Bladescape assured Sasha. "At the very least, AFCK, Diemond, Joltron, and Bunny will be here to help with the kids tomorrow. I'm sure with Gin, Kain, and Mina showing them the ropes, they will be fine. I should have a solid training team for us."

A message popped up in her vision. Bladescape opened it. "U got it, Doll Face. C U In the am at your place." Klein always took the extra space to be himself and say something unnecessary like "doll face" or "at your place."

Bladescape grinned at Sasha. It was obvious she had just read a message. "We will be here by 7am at the latest. I have a team for us. Your replacements for tomorrow may not be as good as you are with the kids, but between the three of them, they will handle the kids just fine. AFCK babysits twins all the time. If she can handle those two, she can handle two dozen with two of her closest friends just fine."

"We shouldn't be late for our own meeting," Doombunny said standing up. "Sasha, we will see you in the morning. It was a great day today, and it will be a great day tomorrow. You are already a shining example for the kids, but you are going to be even more so after tomorrow. You will be better able to teach them about life and give them real lessons. And we will provide them with a fun day where they see that it isn't just you who is saying these things. They will get expert instruction while still having fun."

"Thank you," Sasha said, bowing low in her seat. "I am still uncertain about my side of the deal, but I am certain you can handle them fine. A day away, even working on my levels, well it won't be bad."

Sasha showed them out. It was late. She needed to be in bed for an early morning. But it would not be much earlier than her normal.




Bladescape (SS): Lvl 83 – Two-Handed Sword – Search – Weapon Defense – Leather Armor – First Aid – Battle Regeneration – Sprint – Acrobatics – Blade Throwing – Extended Weight Carry - Greatsword
Thunderborne (RBD): Lvl 75 – Rapier – Sprint – Acrobatics – Armor Pierce – First Aid – Battle Regeneration – Leather Armor – Weapon Defense – Extended Weight Carry – Search
Backbreaker (AJ): Lvl 78 – Heavy Shield – One-Handed War Hammer – Extended Weight Carry – Heavy Metal Armor – First Aid – Battle Regeneration – Fishing – Search – Martial Arts – Acrobatics
AFCK(PP): Lvl 75 – Two-Handed Axe – Parry – Cooking – Weapon Defense – Martial Arts – First Aid – Battle Regeneration – Light Metal Armor – Thrown Weapon – Musical Instrument
Diemond (R): Lvl 75 – Heavy Shield – Mace – First Aid – Battle Regeneration – Heavy Metal Armor – Tailoring – Light Metal Armor Forging – Heavy Metal Armor Forging – Jewelry Making – Extended Weight Carry
Doombunny (FS): Lvl 78 – One-Handed Dagger – First Aid – Hide – Search – Listening – Battle Regeneration – Fighting Spirit –  Familiar Communication (Colorra) – Drug Mixing – Reveal -- Fencing
Astro (PS): Lvl 75 – Two-Handed Spear - Purchase Negotiation – Armor Pierce – Acrobatics – First Aid – Light Metal Armor – Battle Regeneration – Weapon Defense – Parry – Extended Wight Carry
Kiefer: Lvl 73 – One-Handed Curved Blade – Parry – Weapon Defense – First Aid – Battle Regeneration – Light Metal Armor – Slash Weapon Forging – Katana – Martial Arts - Search - Armor Pierce
Lessa: Lvl 72 – One-Handed Sword – Shield – Light Metal Armor – First Aid – Battle Regeneration – Equipment Repair – Metal Equipment Repairing – Armor Pierce – Search - Acrobatics 
Joltron: Lvl 75 – One handed Axe – Heavy Shield – Heavy Metal Armor – First Aid – Battle Regeneration – Metal Refining – Cooking – One Handed Weapon Creation – Two Handed Weapon Creation – Extended Weight Carry