Meeting the Black Swordsman

As they strolled through the bustling marketplace, Strawberry's gaze landed on a familiar shop nestled between two tall buildings—a modest stone smithy, its front open to the street, with sturdy wooden beams and a rustic charm. The rhythmic clang of hammer on metal rang from within, accompanied by the warm glow of a forge casting flickering shadows across the entrance.

Quinella nudged Strawberry and nodded toward a cozy-looking stone smithy nestled between two larger buildings. The structure was unassuming but sturdy, with a warm glow emanating from within and the steady ring of metal against metal drifting out to the street.

"You remember Kaelin's place, right?" Quinella asked, a smile playing on her lips. "I'd say we owe her a visit."

Strawberry grinned, nodding. "Yeah, let's check in. She'll want to hear how her scythe handled that boss fight."

Inside, Kaelin—a petite, half-dwarf with muscular arms and a smudge of soot on her cheek—was busy hammering away at a glowing piece of metal on her anvil. Her auburn braid swung behind her as she worked, and her intense focus was evident in every precise strike. Even in her work attire, Kaelin exuded a strength and pride that spoke of years spent mastering her craft.

Kaelin looked up as they approached, her face lighting up with recognition. "Well, if it isn't the floor-boss slayers!" She chuckled, setting her hammer down and wiping her hands on her apron. "Back for another upgrade?"

Strawberry laughed, resting her scythe against her shoulder. "More like back to say thanks. The Radiant Scythe held up perfectly against that Wasp Queen."

Kaelin's eyes gleamed with pride as she leaned forward to examine the scythe. "Of course it did! Wouldn't expect anything less from a weapon crafted here." She gestured to a few stools near the counter. "Take a seat and tell me about this Wasp Queen. Sounds like it was a real fight."

As they recounted the battle, Kaelin listened intently, nodding with approval and the occasional chuckle. By the end of it, her eyes were twinkling with pride.

"Sounds like my work's got another notch on its belt," she said, patting the side of the scythe. "But I'll tell you what—since you two seem intent on causing more trouble on the higher floors, let me see if I can work in some added edge and durability. I'll make sure it can handle whatever's waiting for you up there."

Strawberry and Quinella exchanged a pleased look, and Strawberry nodded. "Thanks, Kaelin. We appreciate it."

Kaelin waved a hand dismissively, though her expression softened. "Hey, it's my honor. Crafting weapons that save lives is why I'm here." She glanced over at the pouch of rare materials they had brought with them from the Wasp Queen's loot, her gaze turning thoughtful. "And with these, I can make it even better. Give me a day or two—I'll put a little Kaelin magic into it."

(For those who watched Liz craft in the anime and think it's strange that Kaelin takes 2 days instead of 2 minutes, remember this is an AU. I want my NPCs to be different from the Players. So, all NPC crafters will take longer than Players since they won't have a system.)

With promises to return soon, they left Kaelin's smithy, pleased about getting better equipment.

With promises to return soon, Strawberry and Quinella exited Kaelin's smithy, both feeling the anticipation of their next challenge. The afternoon market bustled around them with traders hawking wares and players milling about, discussing quests and upcoming challenges.

Muffin, perched comfortably on Strawberry's shoulder, sniffed the air with growing curiosity. Suddenly, his nose twitched, his eyes wide with intrigue as he picked up on an enticing scent wafting through the crowd. Without warning, the tiny creature leaped from Strawberry's shoulder and darted through the sea of people.

"Muffin!" Strawberry called, surprised as the furball dashed ahead, weaving effortlessly between legs and packs. She sighed, rolling her eyes with an amused grin. "That bunny is way too curious for his own good."

Quinella chuckled, watching the bunny zigzag through the crowd. "I'll wait here while you catch him."

"Thanks," Strawberry replied, already pushing through the throngs in pursuit of Muffin's bobbing ears. "Muffin! Get back here!"

Despite her speed, Muffin managed to stay just out of reach, his little nose leading him further into the heart of the market. Strawberry squeezed through a tight cluster of players, nearly stumbling over a stray crate of vegetables, only to see Muffin dart between two more groups.

Finally, as she turned a corner and reached out, she found herself colliding with a solid figure dressed in dark clothing. She barely registered the impact before stepping back, an apology ready on her lips.

"Sorry about that—"

She paused, taking in the figure before her. He was a young man, around her age, with a focused expression and dark, messy hair that matched the black coat he wore. His gaze was intense but surprisingly kind, and slung across his back was a sleek, black sword.

The boy steadied her with a quick reflex, his grip strong but gentle. "No problem," he replied, flashing a small, polite smile. His eyes flicked down to her shoulder, where Muffin had reappeared, staring back at him curiously.

"So that's what you were chasing?" he asked, nodding toward the small horned bunny now perched with an innocent, wide-eyed expression as if he hadn't just led her on a wild chase through the market.

Strawberry glanced at Muffin, who squeaked as if to say, Me? Trouble? Never!

She rolled her eyes, unable to suppress a smile. "Yeah, this little furball has a nose for trouble. Thanks for the save, though."

The boy chuckled, his gaze lingering on Muffin with clear amusement. "Seems like he's got a lot of personality. I'm Kirito, by the way." He offered a quick nod, his hand still resting on the hilt of his sword in an easy, casual stance.

"Strawberry," she replied, giving him a friendly nod. "And this little troublemaker is Muffin."

At her name, Kirito's eyes widened slightly, his demeanor shifting as recognition dawned on his face. "Strawberry… You're that Strawberry. The one who soloed the first-floor boss. And the second-floor boss too."

Strawberry blinked, feeling the slight shift in his tone—a mixture of surprise and maybe something more critical. She was used to other players' reactions to her achievements, but there was something subtly condescending in the way Kirito's brows lifted as he looked her over.

"Guess the rumors don't lie," he said, his gaze sizing her up. "Didn't think you'd be… well, so casual. Most solo players aiming for the top are more strategic."

Her jaw tightened, her eyes narrowing. "Excuse me?"

Kirito shrugged, his expression still holding that faintly superior smile. "I mean, soloing those bosses—it's impressive. But there's a difference between charging in recklessly and being skilled enough to know when to take a step back. From what I've heard, you've got quite the reputation for risk-taking."

She crossed her arms, Muffin tensing on her shoulder as if sensing her irritation. "Last I checked, Kirito, I was the one who cleared both floors. Maybe instead of judging, you could just try keeping up."

A flicker of surprise passed over his face, and he held up a hand as if to placate her. "No offense. It's just that… well, a lot of people are watching you. And sometimes… the ones who are the most reckless don't last long. I'd hate to see you fall into that category."

Strawberry's patience snapped. She turned away with a dismissive scoff. "Well, lucky for you, I don't need to worry about what you think."

As she stepped back, ready to disappear into the crowd, Kirito looked after her, something like regret flashing across his face. But Strawberry was done—done with the conversation, and done with his assumptions.

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Almost forgot about the poll:

Poll: Should Strawberry get another Rabbit Mask?

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