Chapter 4: White Room (3)

Looking back on the day I met Kiyotaka, it was far from being a legendary encounter, lacking the dramatic backdrop and cool background music one might expect. Instead, it was more akin to two individuals engaging in a conversation, with one person knowing practically everything about the other, rather than two rivals meeting epically.

/Flashback/

"This is my son, Kiyotaka Ayanokoji. He is also one of the rising stars in the White Room, much like yourself. I thought it would be beneficial for you both to meet and discuss your experiences and goals so that you can motivate each other," Professor Ayanokoji explained his smile seemingly calculated.

Excitement coursed through me as I anticipated meeting the 'Perfect Human,' a figure I had only seen in anime. In this generation of the White Room program, individuality was heavily emphasized, resulting in minimal communication between the subjects.

As Kiyotaka approached, I observed him with a curious gaze, almost as if he were a rare creature in a zoo. He possessed a tall stature, with brown hair, brown eyes, and fair skin. Donning a medical robe similar to mine, he was described as extremely attractive in the light novels by Kiky Kushida, ranking fifth among the first-year boys in terms of "Ikemen." Additionally, his prolonged training in the White Room had sculpted an exceptionally well-built physique.

He appeared calm and relaxed, emanating an air of indifference, whether due to disinterest or a somewhat submissive nature. Emotionless, as if he had never experienced the joy of a smile or the pain of tears.

"Hello, my name is Satoru Gojo," I greeted him warmly, my tone friendly.

"Hello, wonderful to meet you," Kiyotaka responded robotically.

"I hope we can get along from now on," I continued, my smile unwavering as if nothing else mattered.

"Of course, I hope so as well," he added, modestly bowing as he had been taught, although I refrained from such gestures as I felt uncomfortable constantly bowing my head, preferring instead a handshake. However, in times of viral infections, the Japanese greeting method took precedence.

The conversation soon grew awkward as neither I nor Kiyotaka spoke further. Sensing the lull, the professor swiftly guided us back to our respective rooms, as it wasn't yet time for me to return home, for which I had only received permission.

...

Years have passed since then, and now I occasionally visit Kiyotaka. Over time, I noticed his guard and reservations gradually diminishing, or perhaps he deliberately showed me that side of him. Regardless, I welcomed this change, understanding that people naturally develop kinder feelings and thoughts toward those they spend considerable time with, whether they despise, adore, or befriend them.

Today, I decided to elevate our relationship from mere acquaintances to friends. Approaching Kiyotaka, I engaged him in conversation while employing subtle hand gestures that only we understood, a complex code difficult, if not impossible, to decipher even if observed through a camera.

Initiating the hand sign with a click of my mouth, I proceeded to form a peace sign, ensuring our movements aligned seamlessly with our words and actions.

Pretending to engage in a conversation about our respective studies, we discreetly communicated about the White Room, using hidden gestures to convey our true sentiments.

Through our subtle movements, I probed Kiyotaka's desires, and he opened up, confiding in me his longing to break free from the confinements of the program, yearning for liberation.

Seizing the opportunity, I reassured him that I possessed the means to secure permission for him to accompany me to my school, where the burden of relentless training and assignments would no longer weigh him down.

While it would undoubtedly offer a reprieve from his current situation, he expressed a deeper yearning for even greater freedom. Deliberating for a few moments, I carefully considered the possibilities, now that Kiyotaka had finally shared his true thoughts. Several minutes later, I made a suggestion—granting him complete freedom for at least a year, albeit not in reality.

My response puzzled him, evident in the furrowed brows and perplexed expression. He struggled to grasp the meaning behind the phrase "not in reality." Sensing his confusion, I patiently elucidated the concept, explaining the existence of a game called Sword Art Online.

In this virtual world, players would be trapped until they successfully cleared the game, with any premature attempts at escape resulting in death. Implied within my words was the notion that Kiyotaka could immerse himself in this virtual realm for an extended period, enjoying relative peace and freedom from external control.

Understanding the gravity of this decision, Kiyotaka recognized the need for further discussion once the game was released. The impact on his life would be significant, necessitating thoughtful consideration of the implications it held.

As Kiyotaka processed the information, I could see the weight of the decision settling upon him. I realized the gravity of this proposition, knowing that his life would be at risk if someone accidentally pulled the plug, leading to dire consequences.

With that in mind, I assured him that I understood the seriousness of the matter and would give him the time he needed to arrive at a decision. His life was in the balance, and I didn't want to rush him into anything without thoughtful consideration.

In the following moments, my mind wandered back to how I first stumbled upon the existence of Sword Art Online. It all started when I went shopping with my mother one day and happened to cross paths with Kirigaya Suguha, also known as Leafa, and Kirigaya Kazuto, or Kirito.

The renowned sword master of SAO was a skilled and formidable player who played a crucial role in bringing an end to the deadly game. Though at this moment, he is still unaware that he is adopted, that was why he was spending time with Suguha.

This realization served as another awakening for me, motivating me to work even harder. It dawned on me that there could be more dangerous worlds merging with ours, potentially bringing forth new challenges and threats that I must be prepared to face.