The voice of Kirito resonated not only clearly in the cave but also in the minds of Lyrielle and Vaelinne.
—"..."
—"..."
Silence settled between them. It was a hard reality to digest, a truth that felt too sudden. Kirito did not attempt to break that moment, understanding that they needed to process it. This was also within his calculations.
**Hooooh... Murmur... Swishhh...**
The cave was vast, enveloped in a slightly humid gloom. Small droplets accumulated on the ceiling, reflecting the dim light from the spheres that Vaelinne and Lyrielle held in their hands.
**Plip... Drip...**
**Shhh... Plish...**
**Tlok... Plop...**
The drops slowly slid from the ceiling, accumulating moisture in the crevices of the rock before falling with a muted sound.
**Shhhwoooosh... Ksshhhh... Roaaaar...**
Unlike the roar of the waterfall in the distance, here inside, the sound of water was barely perceptible, a delicate echo slipping through the shadows.
All these sounds, easy to ignore at another moment, now felt too clear, amplified by the silence dominating the environment.
**Gulp...**
**Thhh... Hooooh... Kshhh...**
Even Vaelinne, who swallowed hard, could not silence the sound of her own breathing. In the absolute silence, even the slightest echo seemed impossible to ignore.
**Kururu...**
Tsukigaki maintained his firm stance next to Kirito, his golden body reflecting the faint glimmers of light that managed to penetrate the darkness. He still didn't understand why Vaelinne and Lyrielle hesitated so much to accept him. For him and the other dragons, Kirito's identity was indisputable.
But in front of them, Vaelinne and Lyrielle were not completely stable; their bodies reacted with a mix of emotion and disbelief. The dim light outlined Kirito's silhouette with an unsettling clarity.
Both shared the same thought.
(—"But his eyes... they were different.")
They were sapphire blue.
They were not the eyes they knew.
—"..."
Vaelinne clenched her jaw, not fully releasing her sword. Her instinct told her it was him, but her mind still battled against uncertainty.
—"..."
Lyrielle, more analytical, kept a steady grip on her weapon, evaluating every detail with precision.
("—It's okay... they'll recognize me completely soon.")
Kirito thought calmly, his expression remaining serene.
His posture stayed relaxed, his presence exuding the same carefree air as always, as if he perfectly understood their caution and knew everything would resolve itself in a matter of seconds.
His smile remained.
**Kururu-Kururu...**
Before they could say anything, Tsukigaki was the first to act and break the tension. He lowered his head and rubbed against Kirito, letting out a soft sound, as if he wanted to help them understand what was already obvious to him.
Kirito flashed a clearer smile as he ran a hand over Tsukigaki's head, his tone relaxed, as if speaking to an old friend.
—"Don't worry... They're just reminding me. Do you want me to scratch your head in the meantime?"
**"Kurururrr-Kurururrrr-Kurururrrr..."**
Tsukigaki immediately accepted, letting his body relax under Kirito's palm, enjoying the contact.
Kirito did not take his gaze off Vaelinne and Lyrielle while doing this. It was not a random gesture—he knew that allowing the dragons to recognize him was a way to reaffirm his identity before them.
**"Kurururrr-Kurururrrr-Kurururrrr..."**
Vaelinne slightly furrowed her brow, not taking her eyes off them. Seeing Tsukigaki fully trusting Kirito made her question her own doubts even more.
Lyrielle, always more analytical, narrowed her eyes, observing the scene closely. The logic was clear—if the dragons recognized him without the slightest trace of uncertainty, then... why did they still hesitate?
Kirito did not overlook the signs on their faces. They were almost accepting it; the doubt was beginning to fade. So he decided to put an end to it once and for all.
—"What do you need to be convinced?"
His voice sounded calm, but with a clear intention to close that gap. He wanted them to set the final requirement to relax and leave the difference behind.
—"We want to hear something that only you know about us."
—"Yes... Something special."
Vaelinne was the first to propose the idea, and Lyrielle, seeing it as a logical approach, supported her without hesitation.
—"Can it be from any stage of our lives?"
Kirito asked calmly, as if the matter seemed entertaining to him.
—"It doesn't matter; it can be anything. What's important is that it's something we truly care about."
Vaelinne reaffirmed her decision with a serious face.
—"That's correct..."
Lyrielle nodded as well.
Kirito tilted his head slightly, evaluating the request with a barely perceptible smile.
—"That seems reasonable. Then let's talk about your childhood."
The slight smile on his face changed.
They recognized it instantly. It was that smile—the same one he always showed before saying something they didn't want to hear.
For some reason, both felt the urge to retract immediately.
But it was already too late.
Kirito looked directly at Vaelinne and, without giving her an escape, launched the question:
—"Vaelinne, do you want me to tell them about the time you cried when I made you fly for the first time?"
Vaelinne blinked rapidly, her muscles reacting before her mind could catch up.
—"...No!"
Her voice came out louder than expected, breaking the tension with a completely different turn.
Kirito smiled with amusement, holding the moment in his hands.
—"But it was an important memory, wasn't it?"
Vaelinne pressed her lips together, feeling heat rise to her face.
—"I was only five years old."
—"And yet you screamed so loudly that you almost woke half the city."
Vaelinne narrowed her eyes, her pride being mercilessly attacked.
—"Besides, I clearly remember that as soon as you landed, you ran to the bathroom and changed your clothes. I wonder why?"
Kirito made a false innocent expression, as if he truly didn't understand the reason behind that sudden change.
—"Please, please, stop! I believe you, I really believe you, Kirito!"
Vaelinne, completely blushing, had lost all composure in front of the embarrassing memory of her childhood, something that did not align with the bravery she usually displayed.
—"But I haven't said..."
—"I already told you I believe you! Okay, Kirito! So please stop."
**Thnk... Kshhh... Clack...**
Vaelinne exhaled in frustration as she sheathed the sword she had kept in attack position. Her face still reflected a mix of anger and shame, interrupting Kirito before he could continue embarrassing her in front of Lyrielle and Tsukigaki.
**"Kururu-Kururu..."**
Tsukigaki tilted his head in confusion, observing his guardian with curiosity as he saw her so flustered.
—"Thank you for believing me, Vaelinne."
Kirito said without the slightest trace of embarrassment.
—"Hmph. Kirito, you're always so..."
Vaelinne crossed her arms and averted her gaze, murmuring under her breath in a frustrated tone. The gesture amused Kirito—seeing her like this was almost nostalgic.
(—"One has fallen. The other is left.")
Kirito thought, and like a predator finding its next prey, he shifted his gaze toward Lyrielle, who was still pointing her weapon at him, although her grip was no longer as steady as before after witnessing what had happened with Vaelinne.
—"As for you... I remember..."
**Shhh...**
A chill ran down Lyrielle's spine before she could hear the rest.
**Kshhh... Click... Thok...**
Without wasting any more time, she stored her weapon with precise movements, securing it firmly in its sheath with a dry sound.
—"I truly regret my recklessness just now, Kirito-dono."
Her voice was serene, but there was a slight tension in her tone, and without thinking too much, she bowed in apology before he could continue.
But Kirito was not willing to let her escape so easily.
—"I think you still need to refresh your memory. Remember, Lyrielle, I have never liked being called with titles like 'Dono' or 'Sama.' And now, even less so since I am no longer a king."
Kirito let out a slight smile, although there was a hidden firmness in his tone.
—"I have never liked the distance in how people speak to me. For me, it's better when you just call me 'Kirito'... like you did a moment ago."
Lyrielle slightly averted her gaze, as if trying to find another justification before responding.
—"That was just a fleeting moment due to the sudden situation..."
—"Then call me Kirito as I have always requested in private. The difference is that from now on, you will always call me that."
Kirito seized the opportunity to definitively remove that habit—he didn't want Lyrielle to treat him with the excessive respect he disliked.
—"But that's very improper..."
—"Then I'll start reminding you when you..."
—"Kirito..."
Lyrielle tried to reject the idea of addressing him that way permanently; she wasn't used to it. But noticing that her refusal only made it more likely for Kirito to reveal an embarrassing memory about her, she had to give in.
—"One more time. But this time, a little louder and looking me directly in the eyes, please."
Kirito said, bringing a hand to his ear, as if he didn't want to miss a single detail.
Lyrielle made an effort to comply, this time trying not to avert her gaze.
—"Kirito... Kirito."
—"See, Lyrielle? It wasn't that difficult, was it?"
Kirito said with an even wider smile, perfectly understanding the effort it had cost Lyrielle to break her old habit.
Not losing his mood, he added in a carefree yet firm tone:
—"Since you've fulfilled your part, Lyrielle, I'll do the same and won't say anything more about your past. After all, I am a man of my word."
—"Haaah... You're certainly you... Kirito."
Lyrielle let out a sigh before shaking her head. That playful behavior of Kirito matched perfectly with her memories of him, and, as always, he had managed to get his way.
Vaelinne, who had been observing everything from her side, couldn't help but complain immediately.
—"That's not fair, Kirito! How is it possible that I was the only one whose embarrassing past came to light, and Lyrielle's didn't?"
**Tuk... Tuk... Tuk...**
Vaelinne started walking with firm steps, her previous uncertainty fading into the distance. Her gaze fixed on Kirito, who watched her with one hand on his hip, his posture relaxed but with a smile that showed he knew exactly what was happening.
—"I want to hear something about her. Anything, but not—Huff..."
**Fwmp... Thmp...**
Vaelinne couldn't finish the sentence because just when she got close enough, Kirito wrapped her in an unexpected hug, so quickly that she didn't even see it coming.
—"You idiot! Who gave you permission to hug me? Let go, Kirito!"
**Dmp... Dmp... Dmp...**
Vaelinne pounded her free hand against Kirito's chest, showing a resistance that didn't seem genuine, as if the gesture had taken her by surprise.
—"..."
But Kirito didn't let go or say anything, knowing that her reaction was also a facade.
—"I told you to let me go... Khh... Kirito..."
**Dmp... Dmp...**
—"Hic... Khh... Snff..."
Vaelinne's voice began to crack, and her punches gradually weakened until her breathing turned shaky and the sound of a stifled sob broke through the barrier she was trying to maintain.
**Dmp...**
With that last blow, Kirito hugged her tighter and, leaning closer to her ear, spoke in a voice that had shed all trace of playfulness.
—"I missed you too, Vaelinne..."
His words, sincere and warm, shattered the last facade of Vaelinne.
**Fwmph... Thmp...**
Vaelinne returned the hug even tighter, and then...
**Hic... Khh... Snff...**
She began to cry.
—"I thought... Hic... that I would never see you again... Snff..."
Her voice came out choked, with the desperation of someone who had borne the weight of absence for too long.
—"I know... I know..."
**Plip... Plish... Tlok...**
Tears from Kirito also began to slide down his cheek, unable to help it. He was not immune to that pain because he had felt it himself.
("This isn't easy for me...")
He thought, closing his eyes tightly for a moment. How could he forget the deep bonds he had in this world? Returning to the real world and leaving behind what he lived here was never an easy option. This place was real. The people, the beings, the connections... They all had a soul, they all felt.
—"I really, really... really... Hic... missed you. You don't know how much... Snff..."
**Plip... Plish... Tlok...**
—"I understand, Vaelinne... Snff..."
**Plip... Plish... Tlok...**
Kirito simply let her vent in his embrace, understanding that she needed it more than any explanation. And then, he turned his gaze toward the other person who also needed that comfort: Lyrielle.
**Plip... Plish... Tlok...**
A few meters away, Lyrielle remained silent, but tears also rolled down her face, falling with inevitability. She hadn't forgotten either.
("I know you too well, Lyrielle...")
Kirito thought, observing her reaction. He knew that Lyrielle had a reserved nature, someone who preferred to keep her emotions in check, but even her own strength had limits, and this time, it had been surpassed.
—"Come here too, Lyrielle..."
Kirito extended a hand toward her, his eyes showing the same sapphire sparkle, this time filled with emotion.
—"..."
Lyrielle shook her head, averting her gaze, taking a step back.
("You're really stubborn...")
Kirito thought, shaking his head gently, but for another reason.
—"Tsukigaki."
Kirito turned his head toward his dragon companion, his voice low but firm.
—"Please, bring Lyrielle here."
**Kururu-Kururu...**
Tsukigaki nodded, understanding Kirito's request.
**Thud... Rmmph... Shhhff...**
The dragon's feet hit the ground firmly, moving behind Lyrielle.
—"What are you doing, Tsukigaki?"
Lyrielle frowned at seeing him move, her voice reflecting more unease than anger.
**Kururu-Kururu...**
**Whump... Thmp... Huff...**
With a controlled movement, Tsukigaki gently nudged Lyrielle with his snout, enough to push her toward where Kirito was.
—"Ahhh! Tsukigaki!"
Lyrielle exclaimed at the unexpected shove, slightly losing her balance.
**Thmp... Shff... Stk...**
She took a step to steady herself, but before she could completely do so...
**Fwmph... Thmp...**
Kirito was already waiting for her with open arms, catching her in a firm embrace.
—"Aaahh, Kirito!"
Lyrielle, not accustomed to that kind of contact, raised her voice, trying to free herself.
—"Please, Lyrielle... Don't resist."
His voice was soft, sincere, trembling with emotion.
—"Just for a moment... Stay like this, okay?"
Lyrielle looked up and saw Kirito's eyes, shining with absolute sincerity. There was no other intention behind his words. Just affection. Just honesty. Just someone who had returned after too long.
And then...
Lyrielle relaxed into the embrace, just like Vaelinne.
—"Thank you, Tsukigaki..."
**Kururu-Kururu...**
The soft, cheerful sound of the dragon indicated that he understood.
—"You're so unfair, Kirito... Hicc... How could you involve... Snff..."
**"Hic... Khh... Snff..."**
But before she could finish her complaint, her own barrier broke. Her emotions overflowed, just like Vaelinne's.
**Plip... Plish... Tlok...**
Kirito held them in silence, comforting them with his presence.
—"In this life, many things are unfair, Lyrielle, Vaelinne... We can only endure them and keep moving forward."
**Plip... Plish... Tlok...**
Kirito hugged them tightly, and in his mind, those words resonated for himself as well.
("I know that all too well...")
**Thud... Rmmph... Shhhff...**
Tsukigaki slowly approached the three, his enormous figure casting a shadow over the damp cave floor.
**Kururu-Kururu...**
Kirito instantly recognized that tone. It was Tsukigaki's way of asking for permission to do something, a silent yet clear request.
—"Of course you can join, Tsukigaki..."
Kirito invited him naturally, without hesitation.
**Kururu-Kururu...**
The dragon let out a soft sound, reflecting his joy at the approval. However, he also understood that his size prevented him from embracing them as a human would.
So he found a way to do it without breaking the touching moment:
Tsukigaki lowered his enormous head and gently rested it on Kirito, who still held Lyrielle and Vaelinne in his arms. A gesture of silent comfort that conveyed the same affection as a hug.
With Tsukigaki in the scene, the picture was complete:
Three beings, embraced in the dimness of the cave, their emotions overflowing after the long wait.
A huge dragon, sharing the moment in his own way, offering his own kind of solace.
Kirito closed his eyes for a moment.
("I am truly grateful... After everything, they have recognized me in the end.")
The thought sank deep into his heart, wrapped in the almost absolute darkness of the cave.
(*****)
Several hours had passed, well into midnight.
**Plip... Plish...**
The atmosphere had calmed, although a trace of the emotional intensity they had experienced before remained.
The interior of the cave stayed dimly lit, thanks to the light spheres that Vaelinne and Lyrielle held in their hands. Sitting on the ground, facing Kirito, the illumination barely reflected their silhouettes against the rocky dimness.
Tsukigaki, true to his responsibility, had left long ago, resuming his patrol duties. Despite his absence, other dragons remained at the entrance, alert to any external presence. Their vigilance ensured that no stranger roamed near the waterfall, preventing possible accidents or unexpected situations.
Now, only the three of them remained.
Vaelinne and Lyrielle still felt somewhat embarrassed by the outpouring they had earlier. Showing their vulnerability so openly was not something they did often, and although no one mentioned it, it was evident that both were still processing what had occurred.
Despite that...
Kirito, of course, behaved as if nothing had happened.
Without discomfort, without unnecessary comments, as if the reunion and everything that had happened were simply part of the natural flow of events.
Perhaps this behavior was intentional. Kirito knew that if he gave too much importance to the previous moment, it would only increase their embarrassment. Keeping the conversation fluid and tension-free was the best way to restore normalcy to the atmosphere.
But beyond that...
The conversations they had during those hours had served a crucial purpose: to catch up on what was happening.
Kirito recounted almost everything that had transpired, calmly, without rushing.
But, as expected, there were things he decided to keep to himself.
He didn't tell them that he no longer had a physical body to return to, nor that his soul had been copied and that he had taken its place.
His reasoning was clear:
If they knew it was possible to copy souls without consent...
If they understood that someone could do the same to them, without them being able to prevent it...
That persistent fear would be too overwhelming.
It was a troubling truth, an idea that could alter their perception of the world in irreversible ways.
That's why Kirito chose to remain silent about it, at least for now.
Some truths were too heavy to carry. And even more so if there was nothing they could do about it.
**Hooooh... Murmur...**
Within the cave, the passage of time felt irrelevant, as if their conversation existed in a space detached from the outside world.
And, in a sense, it was.
—"So, in summary, you want us to help you with your daily needs while you investigate a way to return to your world, right?"
Vaelinne asked after grasping Kirito's request.
—"That's right. I need to prepare for an indefinite time before departing to the outside world."
Kirito nodded seriously.
Lyrielle watched him attentively. There was no fear in her gaze, just a firm determination to find a way out.
—"I suppose you already have some idea."
Kirito's smile widened as he observed the room, each detail stirring memories long held.
—"Yes, I have a base... a path I can follow."
Vaelinne lowered her gaze, a hint of sadness in her voice.
—"Are you leaving as soon as you arrived?"
Kirito shook his head gently.
—"No. It's likely that this will take years... So you can rest easy, Vaelinne. I'm not going anywhere just yet."
Vaelinne sighed, managing a weak smile. She knew that eventually, he would have to leave, but she decided not to press the issue.
—"I assume you don't plan to do your research and preparations here, on floor 95…"
Lyrielle agreed with her, crossing her arms as she surveyed their surroundings.
—"That's right, Kirito. How could you work in a dark and uncomfortable cave?"
Vaelinne nodded. It was the worst place for a task that required absolute concentration.
Kirito rested a hand on his chin, contemplating.
—"You're right. While this place offers privacy, it doesn't allow me to give my full analytical capacity. Plus, I need to be alert to the dragon caretakers."
Lyrielle caught his reasoning and asked the obvious question.
—"So… do you have a place in mind?"
Kirito let out a mysterious smile.
—"Yes. A place free of intruders and curious eyes, where I can focus without interruptions."
Vaelinne couldn't hide her curiosity.
—"Oh, great. What is this special place?"
—"Is it somewhere we know?"
Lyrielle asked, intrigued. She had studied every renovation of the Cathedral, but she couldn't identify a location that fit Kirito's description.
Kirito shrugged playfully.
—"You'll have to wait. It's a surprise, but I promise it will leave you as astonished as I was the first time I saw it."
Vaelinne crossed her arms with a frustrated expression.
—"You're such a tease, Kirito! You knew, didn't you? But I hope it's really worth it."
Lyrielle, on the other hand, smiled with amusement.
—"What did you expect, Vaelinne? That's just how he is. But I admit I'm also dying to see that place."
Kirito maintained his enigmatic smile and placed a hand over his heart, as if making a vow.
—"I swear it will surprise you."
Then, without wasting any more time, he posed the next question with a serious tone.
—"But before that, I need to go to my old room…"
Vaelinne raised an eyebrow, puzzled.
—"Your room? Why?"
Kirito held her gaze, keeping his expression unchanged.
—"I want to know if there have been any changes since I left."
Lyrielle responded first.
—"According to my knowledge, there have been no modifications. It has just been cleaned regularly."
Vaelinne added to the information.
—"It's been just over two years since you and Asuna tried to return. The room was considered a place of respect for the former kings, so no one has occupied it."
Lyrielle nodded.
—"Yes. Besides keeping it maintained, nothing has changed. It's public knowledge within the Cathedral."
Kirito pondered for a moment before smiling with satisfaction.
—"Great. That saves us unnecessary problems."
He stood up, determined.
—"Let's move before dawn..."
He said, extending a hand to each of them to help them rise.
"Every minute counts."
Vaelinne looked at him with curiosity.
—"I assume you mean your room, not the mysterious place…"
Lyrielle clarified the doubt.
—"Of course. First, he'll go to his old room."
Both of them stood up at the same time, taking Kirito's hand to propel themselves. Upon releasing him, Vaelinne quickly adjusted the bottom of her outfit, without much delicacy, while Lyrielle did so with elegance and precision.
Kirito observed them with determination.
—"That's right. First, the room. And for that, we'll do this…"
The path to the next phase of his plan was decided. Now all that was left was to execute it without margin for error.
(*****)
Somewhere on a floor of the Cathedral...
**Click… Clic-clac.**
**Shhhkt… Fsss.**
A soft click followed by a refined sliding sound. The solid wood yielded smoothly, and the slight rubbing of polished metal against the frame was accompanied by a barely audible whisper. As it opened, it released a discreet echo that dissolved into the luxury of the environment.
A shadow slipped carefully into the room, followed by the silhouette of a female figure. Her movements were measured, calculated, advancing with precision through the gloom.
**Thump.**
With a quiet sound, the door closed behind her, returning the space to darkness. Still in the shadows, certain movements of the person who had just entered could be distinguished.
**Tap.**
Suddenly, the darkness partially dissipated with the dim glow of a personal tablet. The light revealed Vaelinne's face, her red hair framing her crimson eyes, which stood out clearly against the screen.
**Tap-tap-tap-tap.**
She began to type a brief message. The recipient: Lyrielle.
{—"Everything is clear."}
Just a few simple words, but enough to convey her intention.
{—"Okay."}
Lyrielle's response arrived almost immediately, even shorter, but just as concise.
**Fsh-fsh-fsh-fsh.**
**Fsh-fsh-fsh-fsh.**
Soon, light footsteps, almost ethereal, approached the door of the room where Vaelinne was.
**Click… Clic-clac.**
**Shhhkt… Fsss.**
**Thump.**
The same precision, the same silence. A second female figure entered the room quickly.
**Chk-chk… Clunk.**
However, this time there were two short movements before the door was secured. The latch slid into position, followed by a firm lock, the faint echo dissipating in the stillness of the atmosphere.
**Click… Fzzz.**
The next sound indicated that the action had taken effect. The lights in the room instantly turned on, completely dissipating the dimness and revealing the magnificence of the space.
It was the Star Kings' bedroom.
The bedroom not only reflected the grandeur of those who had ruled but also the deep bond between them. Every element conveyed the history, prestige, and authority they shared as sovereigns.
The space was spacious, with high ceilings and golden details embedded in the white stone. The columns, intricately carved, narrated passages of the world that Kirito and Asuna led, their presence still etched in every relief.
In the center, on a platform of carved marble with golden inscriptions, rested the imperial bed. Larger than a traditional matrimonial bed, it was designed to reflect the power of the royal couple.
Its canopy of deep blue velvet descended elegantly, bordered in silver, enveloping the space with an air of exclusivity. The fine engravings on the bed's frame represented their union, reinforcing their image as the "Star Kings."
On each side, ornate tables held crystal lamps that emitted a warm light. The reflections on the marble walls created an ethereal glow, a silent testament to the nights shared on the throne of the Underworld.
In front of the imperial bed, a black marble fireplace remained unlit, with scattered ashes, remnants of past times.
The large windows offered an imposing view of the Cathedral's inner gardens, with pure silk curtains falling from above, moving with the breeze like a distant whisper.
On one side, an imperial wardrobe stood with solemn presence. It still held the clothes of Kirito and Asuna, protected by the rigorous cleaning of the Cathedral's maids.
Next to the wardrobe, a dark wooden vanity with a mirror carved in silver reflected the light with soft hues. On its surface, several images captured joyful moments of Kirito and Asuna, showcasing their time together while ruling. In each, their smiles were genuine, reflecting the deep affection that had united them.
However, the most impressive thing about the room was neither the imperial bed, nor the wardrobe, nor the fireplace...
On the main wall, a magnificent night painting dominated the space, capturing a starry sky with dazzling precision. The stars were not mere brushstrokes, but embedded crystals, each reflecting light realistically, creating an impossible depth effect.
In the center of the painting, Kirito and Asuna were depicted flying under the eternal night, holding hands, as if in that moment they were the very center of the firmament.
Asuna, in her white Stacia outfit, had her feathered wings spread, her sword resting at her hip as a symbol of sovereignty. Their intertwined fingers seemed to radiate a faint glow, as if the painting sought to convey the connection between them beyond the image.
Kirito, in contrast, wore his dark SAO swordsman attire, his ethereal black wings unfurled, with his swords—one black, the other blue—crossed on his back as always. His hand firmly held Asuna's, and on their faces, one could perceive the same determination that had turned them into the Star Kings.
The painting, for its perfection and meaning, was considered a symbol of the prestige of the ancient sovereigns, a visual testament to the history they left in the Underworld.
Although Kirito and Asuna preferred a simple life, protocol demanded that their room reflect the grandeur of their reign. It was inconceivable for the rulers of the kingdom to sleep in a common room.
Over time, they learned to accept their surroundings, not out of desire, but because it was what was expected of them. The nights in this room were not just private moments, but a reflection of the image they had to project to the world.
Lyrielle and Vaelinne stood at the threshold, meticulously surveying the room. They knew it remained immaculate thanks to the constant cleaning by the Cathedral maids.
Vaelinne moved calmly, ensuring everything was in order before what they were about to do.
—"There's no need to check the state of the place," she murmured, observing the furniture.
—"Everything here has remained perfect since they left."
Lyrielle nodded, walking toward the center of the room with calculated steps.
—"The real question is whether anyone has crossed their boundaries…"
Her words made clear the purpose of the inspection. Despite the Cathedral's security, they could not rule out the possibility that someone had attempted to invade the privacy of the ancient kings.
Without wasting time, they both began to examine the room. They checked behind the furniture, among the ornamental objects, even under the platform of the imperial bed.
Vaelinne approached the wardrobe and slid her fingers over its polished surface.
—"If someone had placed something here, it would have been an inconceivable disrespect."
Lyrielle carefully inspected the vanity, her gaze traversing the images of Kirito and Asuna.
—"Installing a camera in this room would directly challenge the Cathedral's rules."
Vaelinne looked at the mural with a firm expression.
—"It would be an absolute invasion of the privacy of the ancient kings. There should be no room for such an act."
Lyrielle moved toward the fireplace, observing the space around her.
—"If we found something... who would dare to justify it?"
Tension lingered for a moment before they both headed to the last corner of the room.
The private bathroom.
The door opened softly, revealing an equally immaculate space. They analyzed every edge, every shelf, every angle of the room.
Nothing.
Vaelinne sighed, crossing her arms.
—"Everything remains intact. As it should be."
Lyrielle relaxed her shoulders.
—"There are no mistakes here. The privacy of the ancient kings remains inviolate."
With one last glance at the place, they both headed back to the entrance. The security of the room was confirmed.
Lyrielle nodded firmly at Vaelinne, and then both spoke to the apparent space before them.
—"Clear."
Vaelinne reaffirmed in a firm voice:
—"Everything is in order. Kirito, you can come out."
**Fwoooosh… Zap…**
A pulse of blue energy gently coursed through the room, dissipating into the air with precision. Kirito's silhouette began to materialize smoothly and controlled, without interruptions or dramatic effects.
First, his hands emerged naturally, fingers flexing gently. Then, his whole body revealed itself, showcasing his thick, rigid dark blue linen tunic, with golden edges on the collar and sleeves still retaining their subtle shine.
His leather belt was securely in place.
Finally, his sapphire blue eyes sparkled under the bedroom lighting. The last glow disappeared without leaving traces of energy, as if he had never been hidden.
The path to the ancient kings' room was meticulously calculated. Vaelinne led the group, moving naturally, ensuring each step was secure before proceeding. At precise intervals, she sent short messages to Kirito and Lyrielle through her tablet, indicating when to proceed cautiously.
At that hour, the Cathedral's hallways were practically deserted. Only a few guards patrolled their established routes, walking in predictable rhythms that facilitated their evasion. The maids, dedicated to their daily tasks, were still asleep in their rooms, as the day began later.
When a patrol unexpectedly appeared, Vaelinne reacted instantly, diverting the route just in time, guiding the group down an alternative hallway that kept them out of sight. There were no hasty movements, no signs of nervousness; just precise and efficient strategy.
Thanks to their planning and the group's perfect synchronization, they managed to advance without any setbacks until they reached the ancient kings' room.
Unlike other areas of the Cathedral, this place had no surveillance, as no one inhabited it. However, its significance still remained. It was considered a sacred site, a space that symbolized the legacy of Kirito and Asuna.
The inhabitants of the Cathedral deeply respected the place, not only for what it represented, but because the two ancient sovereigns never ruled as distant nobles. To them, titles were just names; what really mattered was integrity, kindness, and how each person lived their life.
Kirito lowered his hands calmly.
—"Perfect. We can continue... but first, let's find a change for this outfit."
He said, seeing his clothes, an outfit that had never been one of his favorites, and that also brought back memories of his past journey with Eugeo.
Kirito calmly moved to the wardrobe, and upon seeing it, Vaelinne couldn't help but make a teasing remark.
—"Oh? I thought you would never take it off."
Lyrielle sighed, giving her a disapproving look.
—"You know Kirito had no choice, Vaelinne…"
Kirito, without reacting much, simply continued searching for something to change into, but still added in a neutral tone:
—"I don't care, Lyrielle… I would like to see her spend days in the same clothes, unable to bathe, in a dark place surrounded by dragons..."
Vaelinne felt Kirito's eyes on her, his penetrating gaze loaded with meaning. She understood perfectly what he meant to say.
—"Alright, I get it… You don't have to look at me like that; I just wanted to lighten the mood."
She murmured, averting her gaze as she crossed her arms, feeling her companions accusing her with their eyes.
Kirito continued his search, not paying her any more attention. He took only a few garments, ensuring not to raise suspicions when the maids went about their cleaning routine. Any absence would be noticed, and he didn't want to leave unnecessary traces.
As always, he avoided choosing anything ostentatious, as his style had never leaned toward opulence.
Vaelinne, still in the mood to irritate him a little more, dropped another comment with some truth to it.
—"You're not thinking of putting it on now without getting rid of the smell from these days, are you, Kirito?"
—"…"
Lyrielle, for her part, also said nothing. Because, after all, they knew Vaelinne was right.
—"Of course not. First, I'll take a bath."
Kirito shook his head as he said it.
—"But we don't have much time, since the longer we stay here…"
—"The more dangerous it is for us to be discovered," Lyrielle completed, supporting Vaelinne's point of view.
Kirito exhaled calmly.
—"Relax, I know. I'm not going to bathe or change in this room… I'll do it when we get to the place I mentioned."
Kirito moved forward with his change of clothes in hand, but his gaze unintentionally drifted toward the **vanity adorned with images frozen in time**.
There, **Asuna smiled sweetly**, her eyes reflecting the warmth of a moment that seemed eternal. **Each photo was a testament to their life together**, intimate moments trapped on paper, a silent vow that such happiness once existed.
—"…"
Unable to help it, he reached out and took one of the frames.
His thumb brushed the glass gently, feeling the cold surface as if it were a barrier between him and the memory.
There, Asuna smiled sweetly, hugging him tenderly on a sunny day. The reflection of the sky in her eyes, the natural curve of her smile, the way her fingers intertwined with his… Everything remained intact.
But in his chest, there was no comfort, only a heart-wrenching emptiness.
A stabbing pain.
Memories emerged like blades piercing his mind mercilessly.
(*****)
Higa's voice returned with a crushing coldness.
—"Wake up, Kirito. At this very moment, Asuna is in the arms of 'another man'... or should I say, in 'your' arms? Ironic, don't you think?"
The voice vibrated in the echo of his consciousness, each word a precise blow to his essence.
—"You probably still think she'll notice that something is wrong, right? Tss, tss…"
The images became blurry. His breath hitched.
Higa continued, relentless:
—"Time will only prove me right... Humans are incredibly adaptable to minor changes. When we least expect it, we forget the importance of what we had before and accept the new. How long did you live with her, not counting those 200 years that 'she erased through her own stupidity'? The copy will spend more time by her side than you ever did, and your memories… your 'precious' memories… will be replaced by new ones."
Like a dagger turning slowly in his soul.
—"They will marry surrounded by friends and family with big smiles, receiving their congratulations… including mine. And you? Where will you be when she says 'yes, I do'? I'll tell you…"
A calculated pause.
—"You will be dead. Erased from existence in this supercomputer, reduced to a mountain of 0s and 1s. No one will know the truth that you were ever here, 'not even her', the person closest to you."
—"So I recommend you take my advice: 'Make the most of your time'."
(*****)
The words still burned within him, poisoning every corner of his mind.
He clung tightly to the image on the vanity, as if simply holding it could change the fate imposed on him.
What should make him smile now only generated a profound unease.
("It's me… I know it… But why do I feel like I'm seeing my other self? My copy with Asuna and not with me, like before...")
The reflection of his old dark eyes in the photo returned a bitter sensation. It was as though he himself had been replaced.
—"Crkk... crkk... tssk..."
—"Tssk... crkk..."
His jaw tightened, and his fists clenched involuntarily, as if his body were trying to convey the pain his mind still could not process.
Kirito did not move, his shoulders trembling slightly as his tears fell in absolute silence, rolling down his face without him realizing, reflecting the frustration and helplessness that gnawed at him from within.
—"…"
—"…"
Lyrielle and Vaelinne remained in total silence.
They didn't have the whole story. They couldn't fully comprehend the weight of his internal struggle, the pain of seeing the person he loved most alongside another version of himself. Of having everything taken away from him.
Vaelinne and Lyrielle exchanged glances, maintaining the sudden silence. In their thoughts, they both agreed on one thing: Kirito just wanted to return to Asuna as soon as possible.
And, in part, they were right.
But it was more than that.
—"Kirito… Kirito."
Vaelinne stepped closer and gently touched his shoulder, bringing him back to reality.
—"Yes…?"
Kirito turned with a barely forced smile.
—"Are you okay, Kirito…?"
—"You're crying."
Vaelinne and Lyrielle expressed their concern upon noticing the tears on his face.
Kirito brought his free hand to his cheek, and upon feeling the wetness, he realized they were right.
Then he slowly loosened his fingers and set the frame back on the vanity.
**Clink... Thmp... Tssk... Shhh...**
The sound of glass touching wood was minimal, but inside him, the impact was overwhelming.
As if by letting it go, he also released something that was tearing him apart inside… And he wiped his face with his sleeve, trying to dry himself quickly.
**Shff... shff...**
—"I'm fine… They're just memories."
He tried to justify himself, adopting a facade of indifference, as if they were inconsequential things.
A lie wrapped in indifference.
But his voice lacked conviction, only the false confidence of someone trying to convince others, but above all, himself.
Vaelinne didn't believe him. She watched him without being entirely convinced, her crimson eyes reflecting doubt.
—"If you say so…"
—"…"
But she didn't insist. Neither did Lyrielle.
The two shared a tacit understanding. They didn't press further. Surely, Kirito had valid reasons for not wanting to discuss the matter, and they **would respect that**.
After a few seconds of silence, Kirito exhaled deeply and resumed movement.
—"Let's continue…"
Kirito approached the vanity with determination.
**Shhh... crkk...**
The wood rubbed against itself, releasing a coarse whisper as a hidden compartment slowly slid open.
Kirito extended his hand toward the innermost part.
—"I've got it."
Kirito's smile showed more than enough to know he had found what he was looking for.
When he withdrew his hand from the compartment, he brought with it an ornament: a tiny dark crystal star. Its glow was faint, almost ethereal, so subtle that it seemed to fade away if not observed closely. Its delicately carved edges barely captured the light, like a fragment of the night trapped in an ephemeral shape.
It was a symbol. A beauty that revealed itself only to those who stopped to contemplate it.
Vaelinne, moving close enough to see it, frowned in confusion.
—"A hair ornament...? Did we come here just for an ornament of Asuna?"
Kirito, still wearing his mysterious smile, shook his head.
—"No… It's more than that…"
Without further explanation, he separated the ornament into two parts, keeping only the dark star in his hand.
Lyrielle, who had been watching attentively, squinted as she noticed something in Kirito's gesture.
—"It's a key…"
Kirito looked at her approvingly.
—"That's correct. It's a unique key."
Vaelinne began to pay more attention, her red eyes focusing intently on the small star.
It was then that she could detect what made it different: tiny runes, almost imperceptible, covered its surface. They were complex inscriptions, sealed chants that began to glow as soon as the ornament was separated.
Its size was tiny, but it contained a hidden power within.
Lyrielle was equally astonished, her gray eyes reflecting the complexity of the object. She had never seen anything like it in her life.
—"!..."
—"!..."
Kirito closed his hand, hiding the dark star from view.
—"Not bad, huh?"
He smiled slightly at their astonished expressions.
Without adding more, Kirito began to walk toward the wall where the night painting of him and Asuna was located.
The girls followed closely behind. They had always admired that artwork, and everyone who had had the privilege of seeing it shared the same feeling.
It was a painting Kirito had created with his own hands, a talent he developed over the years to reach the level of the great artists of the outside world.
It was known that the painting was a special dedication to Asuna, a show of love that many saw as a romantic gesture.
But it held a secret.
A secret that only he and Asuna knew.
(—"Now only I know it... Just like that time...")
The thought floated in his mind for a moment, but Kirito tried to shake it off.
Asuna had erased his memories of those years.
And with that, she had also erased this great secret.
**Shff... shff... tap... tap...**
**Shff... shff... tap... tap...**
The footsteps of Vaelinne and Lyrielle approached from behind Kirito, just as he lifted his face to observe the enormous painting.
—"I understand…"
Lyrielle was still trying to process the connection between the key and the mural.
—"This is the entrance, right?"
Vaelinne also understood. It made sense.
If the key was hidden, then the door must also be hidden, away from prying eyes, and what better place than their private bedroom?
Only one question remained unanswered.
—"Where is the secret lock?"
Vaelinne interceded for the two.
They were not naive. They knew that the dark crystal star shape represented a star in the sky of the painting.
But which one? The image depicted a whole starry sky, every corner covered with bright twinkles.
Kirito smiled faintly before responding.
—"You'll see… But first, hold onto my shoulders tightly."
Without asking questions, Vaelinne and Lyrielle obeyed, placing both hands on Kirito's shoulders.
Kirito exhaled calmly and, without moving a muscle, pronounced the System Call in a barely audible voice, as if the world itself responded to his will.
(System Call: Adjust Gravity Vector – Target: Vaelinne Schtrinen, Lyrielle Arabel– Elevation: 0.5 meters – Stability: Maintain Position.)
The atmosphere changed instantly.
A slight pressure enveloped Vaelinne and Lyrielle's bodies, as if an invisible thread released them from the weight of the ground. Their feet gently separated, barely a whisper of movement, and their hair floated without resistance.
There was no weight.
There was no gravity.
Only the sensation of absolute weightlessness.
Vaelinne contained the excitement in her expression, but the intensity in her eyes said it all. She had always felt fascinated by flight, and now experiencing it in her own body filled her with adrenaline.
Instead of laughing openly, she exhaled in amazement, her grip on Kirito's shoulders tightening slightly, as if her body were trying to process the wonder of not touching the ground.
—"I suspected it..."
Lyrielle, in contrast, remained calm, ensuring to hold on to Kirito more tightly to avoid any sudden movements.
—"Don't let go of me…"
Kirito reminded them before he too lifted off the ground, although unlike them, he had absolute control over the flight.
—"Up, up."
—"Understood…"
Vaelinne allowed herself to enjoy the moment in silence, while Lyrielle responded calmly, nodding with a light gesture.
**Shhh... Shhh...**
Kirito floated calmly, rising to the highest point of the painting, the area that almost touched the ceiling of the room.
There, a small, dark crystal star awaited.
Its shape was identical to the star that Kirito held in his hand. But its materials were different. It lacked the runes and chants that covered the true key.
With precision, Kirito extended his hand.
**Crkk... shhh... tssk...**
And with extreme care, he removed the star embedded in the wall.
—"…!"
—"…!"
The girls watched in astonishment.
In the cavity left by the false star, runes began to illuminate, as if awakening from an ancient slumber.
The inscriptions were identical to those of the real crystal star, forming complex patterns on the inner surface of the wall.
It was a mechanism unlike anything seen before.
Without wasting time, Kirito directed the real dark star toward the empty cavity.
**Tssk... crkk... shff...**
It fit perfectly.
For a moment, everything remained still.
Then, the transformation began.
The darkness of the star started to fade, leaving behind a golden glow that emerged from within.
There were no abrupt pulsations.
There were no excessive flashes.
Just an inevitable change, as if the darkness had only been a veil hiding its true essence.
Kirito, still floating with Vaelinne and Lyrielle holding onto his shoulders, watched calmly.
The star not only shone in gold, but it began to expand, forming a circle of light in front of them.
The portal emerged without interruption, without altering anything else in the room.
Vaelinne and Lyrielle felt the energy envelop them harmoniously, without pressure, without weight, as if the portal were designed to receive them in perfect balance.
Now everything made sense. That's why they were flying.
Without hesitation, Kirito moved forward.
The golden glow completely enveloped them as they crossed the threshold.
Behind them, the air settled back into complete silence.
The star remained in its place, as if nothing had occurred.
The glow of the portal dissipated, leaving behind the weightlessness that still lingered in the air.
Vaelinne and Lyrielle, by reflex, closed their eyes as they crossed the entrance.
But when they finally opened them…
Their eyes filled with wonder.
From above, a colossal library unfolded before them.
A space that shouldn't exist, but was there, spreading out with a majesty impossible to ignore.
Endless rows of shelves rose in all directions, laden with ancient volumes, sealed with inscriptions that seemed to whisper forgotten secrets.
The ceiling—if it could be called that—had no visible limits.
Instead, a vault of light floated above them, as if the sky itself had been transformed into an ocean of knowledge.
Golden currents flowed between the aisles, guiding the movement of information in an order that only those with access could comprehend.
Vaelinne felt a shiver run down her spine.
She had never seen anything so vast, so impossible.
Her red hair reflected the faint golden glow floating in the air.
—"This is impossible…"
Her voice came out barely as a whisper amid the immensity of silence.
Lyrielle said nothing.
Her mind struggled to process the unreal nature of what she saw, but she found no words that could describe it.
She remained mute, caught in the impact of the incomprehensible.
The logic.
The balance.
The rules of the world.
All of that shattered before her eyes.
But Kirito…
Kirito exhaled calmly, his expression reflecting something beyond the impact of the moment.
A deep sensation.
They hadn't just arrived. He had returned.
His fingers relaxed slightly, as if the invisible weight he had carried until now dissipated for a moment.
His gaze swept over the endless shelves, the golden currents floating in the air, the vastness of knowledge encapsulated in this place.
This was not just a library.
It was a refuge.
A space he had first seen when Cardinal brought them here with Eugeo, at that moment when everything still retained a different shine.
That time, Eugeo was by his side.
Now, he was here again.
Only this time, no one else remembered the way, not even Asuna, except him. Until now.
His lips curved slightly into a smile, his voice imbued with a silent satisfaction, as if this moment were more than just a simple discovery.
—"Welcome, Vaelinne and Lyrielle, to the Hidden Library…"
The words hung in the air, resonating with a weight that neither of them could ignore.