Chapter 1: Unexpected Discovery

Elder Tale, an MMORPG with over twenty million worldwide players.

On May 3, 2025, without warning, an estimated thirty thousand Japanese alone and hundreds of thousands worldwide were transported in a world just like the game.

This day came to be known as The Apocalypse. The day reality and fantasy were switched. The day the land of Theldesia became real.

Where death was not the end.

Where NPCs behaved just as any human would.

Where monsters were not the only danger.

What was once a mere game has become the new reality for the players - their new home - and without knowledge of how to return to their old world, the Adventurers quickly found themselves trying to adapt to this bizarre yet lawless environment. Some had used force and great numbers to survive, subduing any who stood in their way and ruling cities with an iron fist. Others utilized deception and lies, using their beauty as much as their cunning to gain influence and power. A few relied on fraud and sweet empty words, luring unsuspecting victims to do their bidding and leech off of their ignorance. While there were some who simply didn't took their situation seriously and instead grabbed this opportunity to wreak havoc and chaos just for the fun of it.

All of these people acted for their own benifits. Their own selfish desires to survive in this world and do the things they please without regard for the safety of others. Player-killers. Robbers. Scammers. They were those who couldn't accept their situation- miserable losers who doesn't understand the value of life - merely thinking of their situation as a simple game, and they reacted as such in the most unhonorable ways possible.

However, there was one group who didn't followed their example. A group who wanted to help its fellow Adventurers survive in this harsh environment. A group who wished to change this world.

The guild, Log Horizon.

Led by the genius strategist and Half-Alv Enchanter Shiroe, also known as the "Villain in Glasses", they formed the Round Table Alliance with ten other guilds to govern the Adventurers of Akihabara. Through a brilliant and carefully executed elaborate plan, Shiroe brought the entire city under control and ousted those who wrought chaos within it. In just a week, peace and order were restored and the community grew prosperous. Technologies from the old world were recreated. Relationship with the natives, the People of the Land, were established. Safety and security were implemented. Various threats from both monsters and people alike were thwarted thanks to the efforts of the legendary tactician and his guild. With them and the other Round Table members, every trials and problems were solved. Every danger was eliminated. Wars and battles were fought and won. Diplomatic and economic issues were resolved. No matter what this world threw at them, they were always there to face it. And for many months, the people of Akihabara lived peacefully under their protection.

Now, May 3, 2026. A year had already passed since that fateful day. However, another unexpected event draws near. An occurence that will change not only their lives, but the land of Theldesia itself.

This day would later be called "The 13th Expansion", also known as the "The Arrival". The day a brand new race was introduced to the world of Elder Tale and descended upon the Adventurers and People of the Land.

A race with shimmering wings and powerful magic.

A race with terrifying skills and deadly beauty.

A race that arrived in a floating castle made of steel.

The Fairies of Alfheim.

-A Tale of Swords and Magic-

Log Horizon Guild Hall

City of Akihabara

Skill Use: Restricted

Entry Restrictions: None

Exit Restrictions: None

The Apocalypse, a term usually refered to as the end of the world. It was an event frequently mentioned in various religious books; an event that would signal the destruction of mankind and all living things.

Judgement Day. The Armageddon. The Rapture. Many names existed for this particular day. Various books, ancient records and even conspiracy theories often describes how it would happen - ranging from simple yet extremely far-fetched natural occurence to bizzare and highly impossible phenomenons only found on fantasy novels and sci-fi action flicks. A gigantic meteor crashing down on the Earth. A massive solar flare. An undetectable planet on a collision course with the world. Continental shifts and earthquakes. Angels descending from the heavens to rain divine judgment on sinful mortals. Gigantic beasts rising from Hell to terrorize the world. Mass disappearances of humans. Zombies and other undead terrors walking the surface. The list goes on and on.

Many people with questionable sanity basing their theories on thousand-year-old calendars and books had constantly warned the world about it. They said it was very near, and everyone should already repent for their sins to save themselves from the damnation they were placing their souls in.

That was 13 years ago, in the year 2012. And unless they were using the ancient Internet Explorer for their theories, which was very likely considering the circumstances, then they were somewhat correct. They had just forgotten to add another scenario on that list of bizarre phenomenons.

The Apocalypse happening via an online game and transporting some millions of players to another world.

It had to be a joke, or at least that's what Shiroe had first thought the moment he "awoke" in the body of his in-game avatar. But after he saw his surroundings, smelled the moisture in the air, felt the bright sunlight on his skin, and noticed the giant Silverleaf Tree towering in the distance, he knew right then that everything was real.

He was inside the game.

With a sigh, he lowered his pen and leaned back in his chair. His life had changed ever since that fateful day. A lot of things happened to him that he thought would not, and he found himself in situations where he was forced to use everything he knew about this world. Now, he was a guild master and one of the leaders in a city.

Honestly, he never thought he would be put into this kind of position. He was asocial and an introvert, prefering to stay on the sidelines and act from there - a mere supporter and strategist. But circumstances led him to his current situation, and though he may not seem to like it, he was actually enjoying this. To be able to have the company of people he could call friends. To laugh, eat and travel with them. Hunt monsters and conquer dungeons together. If there were a few good things The Apocalypse had done for him, he would consider this as one of them. It was truly somewhat of a blessing in disguise and he was kinda glad he could be part of that fateful day. It allowed him to discover things about his abilities that even he didn't know he had, using his vast knowledge and skills to their full potential to help his comrades. And whenever he was seeing the result of all the things he did, he can't help but feel a warm sensation enveloping his heart.

However, the fact that he was here...

He lifted his hands and stared at them with a thoughtful expression. Slender and skilled fingers able to cast powerful spells with little difficulty. His abilities already felt natural to him, as if he was born like this. Even his Half-Alv body which was superior than a normal human from the old world. His senses were magnified, although he would attribute it to the sole reason that he was inside a game-inspired alternate world. But still, it was as if he was already this way as far as he could remember - like he actually came from this place.

That, and his increasing sensivity to magic.

He could literally feel every spell that were being cast within a thirty-meter radius from him. A form of sixth sense; a tingling sensation in his skin. And even if his eyes were closed, he could tell what kind of spell the caster was using.

When he asked the others about it, he discovered he was not the only one experiencing this. It seemed that every magic-oriented class does, especially the Enchanters and Sorcerers. They also possess this sixth sense, though with varying degrees of sensitivity. Some cannot sense magic no further than one meter. Others, like Rieze and Maryelle, can feel magic as far as fifteen. While a few like Henrietta can at ten. Also, it looks like the race you have had an effect as well. His was supposed to be the most attuned to magic followed only by the Race of Ritual. Elves and Fox Tails were there too, though not nearly as powerful.

This strange ability obviously has a connection with the flavor texts coming to life. In this case, their race's backstory and innate skills was starting to affect them as well. So far, this was the only change they were experiencing. However, Shiroe knew that this was just the beginning. The more they stayed in this world, the higher the chance of other alterations to come, some possibly dangerous.

Which means they need to find a way back home soon.

And so here he was, buried under piles of books and research papers. The letter he had received a few months ago from Roe2 gave a big hint on how they could return to their world, but first they have to establish contact with these "Observers" from the moon. Unfortunately, the radio at NHK building in Shibuya was still broken and unless they could fix it, their progress would be slow.

He picked up a leather bound tome and browsed through its contents. Most of these were records regarding the history of this world. As Elder Tale was set in a post-apocalyptic environment, the technologies here were exactly the same as those in their old world. Many were already long forgotten and buried under the ruins, but he was hoping he could find some clues on those that they could still salvage. After all, if that station was still functional, then surely they were others like it just waiting to be found. It was a long shot but worth a try.

As he was flipping through page after page, a rather pecular paragraph caught his attention. The lines were already starting to fade due to the book's age, but he could still read some of it.

On the third day after Sakura dies, a big change will begin with confusion and despair.

One will start the journey with three and assemble ten that will lead one.

Two will sought one where only one must exist.

Three will be brought together to create a bridge between two.

Four will arrive later, carrying nine and one hundred to complete the equation.

Beware the color black.

Shiroe adjusted his glasses and set the book down. He already knew what the paragraph was the moment he saw the lines. It was obviously a prophecy, and the two sentences refered to The Apocalypse and the foundation of the Round Table Alliance. The next two were somewhat vague, but upon reading it the second time, he thought he already had an idea what they meant. As for the last lines, those would be hard to decipher. And if his assumptions were correct, they won't be able to understand them at all until they actually happen.

Still, the others need to know about this if only to watch out for signs. This discovery might be valuable to them in the future, and he has to inform his guild members and co-leaders to make sure they won't be caught off guard. After all, who knows if this "Four" the prophecy was talking about would be a friend or foe? They can't take chances then, not with all the things they went through and suffered just to get where they were now.

He opened his Friends List and dialled for Nyanta. If there was one thing he learned from his experiences in this world, it was the fact that he shouldn't do anything all by himself. That's why he has a guild, so he could share the load with his friends. After all, what was the point of him being a guild master if he won't trust his comrades? That alone was enough to convinced him to tell them about the prophecy.

He heard a few rings before there was a click and the Werecat spoke from the other end.

"Shiroe, what is it?"

"Chief, can you please gather the others?" the Enchanter replied. "I have something to discuss with everyone."

"Of course," Nyanta said. "I would assume that you found something of importance?"

"Yes," the answer was quick and abrupt, "and it may help us find another way back home."

There was a short pause as the Werecat processed what he just said.

"Very well. I shall inform the others immediately. Nya." With that, he ended their communication.

Shiroe sighed and closed his eyes in exhaustion. He had stayed up late last night trying to finish his research on the Fairy Rings and Intercity Transport Gates. Combined with lots of paperworks due to his position, he haven't had much sleep for the past few days. He was hoping he could get some today, but after this new development...

He looked outside the window and gaze at the azure sky. The last lines of the prophecy bothered him, though he was not sure why. Maybe because it was too enigmatic and mysterious, giving him no clue as to its meaning. One thing was certain though; their problems were far from over.

Narrowing his eyes at the thought, Shiroe muttered under his breath.

"Black, huh?"

...

With a groan of pain and discomfort, the Observer known as Roe2 slumped at the base of a tall cedar tree.

"It's so hot!"

Her complaint was justifiable enough. Despite the cool shade offered by the overhanging branches and thick leaves, it was not enough to block the stifling heat coming from the blazing noon sun. Not even the waters provided by her summons - her brothers and sisters - nor her umbrella were sufficient to shield herself from the scorching hot air. Combined with her subclass' natural weakness to sunlight, she was actually surprised that she still hadn't burst into flames at this point.

She really needed to reach Ikoma soon and change her subclass. Her real journey couldn't truly begin until she did, which means she has to get there as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, every time the sun was starting to reach its zenith, the heat would slowly become unbearable until she was being forced to find cover. This would continue until the sun finally sank on the horizon, from whence darkness will take over and bring a cool refreshing air. Afterwards, she would resume her walk again before repeating the process a day later.

The Summoner-Vampire had been doing this for several weeks now, and she was going agonizingly slow. Her travel that should have only taken two months had took twice the time, yet she was just halfway through. At this rate, she'll never be able to make it in two weeks.

Grabbing her staff in one hand and planting the umbrella's tip on the ground with the other, she slowly stood up and looked around. The road she was taking ran straight to her left before disappearing on the horizon. Several trees dotted the area, and a few small animals scampered in the grass. In the distance, a range of mountains rose, towering like giants and surrounding the countryside. Beyond that lies her destination: Ikoma. After she had reached the city and switched subclasses, she would finally begin her journey east where her real goal was.

Akihabara.

Roe2 glanced at the sky and noted the weather. Clouds drifted lazily in large puffs of white, covering the sun and lowering the temperature to a more bearable level. A gentle breeze blew, bringing with it a faint salty scent. She must be near an ocean which was quite expected. Some of the most easier routes leading to Minami went along the coast and was frequented by travelers. In fact, she wouldn't be surprise if she met some along the way just like how she crossed paths with her little 'siblings'.

She took a step and started to walk while shielding herself with the umbrella. This item she was given to by Minori was invaluable to her trek across the mainland. Without it, she would have already combusted a long time ago. It allowed her to proceed on days where she usually could not, and she was really thankful to the young girl for this.

Briefly, she wondered if they were alright. But she quickly dismissed the thought. They were capable fighters and could take care of themselves. Besides, they have someone they could rely on.

She stopped and glanced behind her. She had definitely came a long way since she first got here from the moon, having met several interesting people and joining them in their little adventures. But her journey was still far from over. The road lies before her filled with dangerous twists and turns, and at the end of it was a far and uncertain future. However, the questions she needs some answers to lies in that direction, and it was her duty to find it. After all, Shiroe was most likely doing the same thing as well.

With a smile that bared her fangs, Roe2 whispered something in the air before resuming her walk.

"We shall meet soon, big brother."

"So, let me get this straight. You're saying that someone already knew we were coming and wrote it as a prophecy, but no one paid it attention. Is that it?"

Shiroe sat on a chair facing his guild members, all of which wore looks of puzzlement. Their reaction to his discovery was no surprise considering how everyone - even the Landers themselves - was confused when the Apocalypse happened. Now that they know someone had actually prophesied and recorded it in a book, they were feeling rather skeptical.

Adjusting his glasses, Shiroe nodded at Naotsugu. "That's quite correct. Although I think it's not that no one paid attention. Perhaps the author simply didn't wrote it in any other bookbesides that and left it for those who might be interested. Unfortunately, the book's nature itself must have made the people dismiss it as another myth."

"But that's just it, right?" the Guardian frowned in confusion, "Why would someone write it in a fairy tale book?"

The room fell silent.

Naotsugu has a point. If the prophecy was a world-changing event that might have serious repurcussions, the author wouldn't have written it in a book meant for children. The verses should have been recorded on a special tome or even a book of prophecy, and most people would have known about it - especially the Ancients like Kinjou or even mages like ReGan. It didn't made any sense.

"For now, we can't draw conclusions unless we ask the author," Shiroe said with a small shrug. "But since he, or she, had't included their name, I think it's safe to assume that they don't want to be known or bothered."

"Then how are we suppose to know if this is really a prophecy?" Naotsugu's frown deepened as he scratched his head.

No one answered him. They all glanced at each other thinking the same thing.

"We can't," Minori said slowly.

"Exactly," Shiroe said. "The book won't tell us anything that might help us in validating its contents, which is why we should focus our attention instead on the prophecy itself."

"But how can we trust what this book is saying when we don't even know if it is really a prophecy?" Tohya crossed his arms and stared at the book sitting on the table.

"But it IS a prophecy," Shiroe answered and pointed his index finger on the first line. "The first two verses alone confirms that."

Blinking in confusion, Tohya and Naotsugu both leaned forward from the couch and read the indicated lines.

" 'On the third day after Sakura dies, a catastrophic change will begin with confusion and despair. One will start the journey with three and assemble ten that will lead one', " they recited aloud. After finishing, the two sat back and stared at Shiroe for a few seconds before blurting out at the same time.

"Who the hell is Sakura?" Naotsugu wondered.

"I'm not good at math!" Tohya groaned.

A chorus of snickers and giggles filled the room, most notably from Rudy and Tetora. Beside them, Chief Nyanta's mouth twitched in amusement. Meanwhile, Isuzu was holding back her own laughter, covering mouth as she giggled.

Shiroe sighed and noticed that only two people seemed to be taking the situation seriously.

Akatsuki and Minori.

Standing beside him, the loyal ninja has her eyes closed and brows furrowed in concentration. Meanwhile, the younger Kannagi sitting beside Tohya was also deep in thought, her right index finger and thumb touching her chin. No doubt, they were trying to decipher the words contained in the book, and they looked highly focused that Shiroe could almost see the gears working inside their heads.

The enchanter gaze at them intently. Other than Nyanta and himself, the two girls were the most brightest and quick-witted among his members, especially Minori. Everything he had taught her so far was absorbed with surprising ease, and her eagerness to learn more made her an exceptional protegé. She even developed her own version of his Full-Control Encounter ability in just a short span of time, something that made him feel proud as a mentor. The girl has so much potential that given time, he knew she could surpass him, and that's what he would like to see. At least, before they leave this world.

As for Akatsuki... what could he say? She was smart, skilled, and extremely loyal. Despite her child-like appearance, the young woman - he was reluctant to call her a 'young girl', for various reaaons - had took down dangerous opponents far more powerful than her, even one where he was not there to help. Her strength and combat prowess belies her petite form, and her battle awareness and acute perception were simply astounding. During his days partying with her, and even now that they were trapped in this world, he had came to trust her because of those traits, and he knew very well she did too with him.

Therefore, Shiroe was confident enough that they would be able to interpret the first two lines of the prophecy. And when they finally spoke, he could not help but hid a faint smile.

"The first lines refers to the day we got trapped here," Minori snapped her fingers in realization. "Cherry Blossom trees are also called Sakura in our country, and they start blooming in April. We got trapped here on May 3, three days after 'Sakura' dies."

"And the second refers to the founding of Round Table Alliance," Akatsuki opened her eyes and looked at Naotsugu and Shiroe in realization. "The three of us started the journey and assembled ten other guilds to lead the people of Akihabara."

Immediately, all eyes turned towards the girls. Tohya stared at his twin sister in wonder, his mouth hanging open in awe. They were impressed and shocked at how quick the two had understood the verses when all of them were just as clueless and skeptical of the contents itself.

That was fast, Shiroe thought.

The party continued to stare at Akatsuki and Minori with such intensity that it made the two girls shifted uncomfortably on their feet.

"What are you guys looking at?" the petite Assassin muttered and looked away in embarassment. She stole a glance at her master, who gave her a proud smile, making her face flushed even more.

"How did you two know that?" Naotsugu's eyes were wide.

"Because we studied," Minori mumbled before turning to Shiroe. "But we are correct, right?" she asked with a hopeful expression.

The Enchanter nodded and smiled at her as well. "Yes. Which means the book has accurately predicted the events, and that is quite enough to confirm its validity."

"How about the rest then?" Tohya frowned, still not convinced. "What do they mean?"

Adjusting his glasses carefully, Shiroe answered the young Samurai, "I think I already have an idea what the third and fourth lines refers to, though I have yet to confirm it. However, the final two verses are what I'm wary of. Especially the last one..." His voiced trailed off as he sank into a brooding expression.

" 'Four will arrive later, carrying nine and one hundred to complete the equation. Beware the color black' ." Nyanta glanced over at Naotsugu's buffed shoulders and read aloud. When he was finished, the Werecat's ears twitched for a moment before he finally looked at Shiroe. The serious expression on his furry face was the only confirmation the enchanter needed to know that the Chief had understood what he implied earlier.

"A fourth faction," he stated. Immediately, the room's atmosphere changed.

"What do you mean by that, Chief?" Naotsugu turned his head quizically towards the older player.

"A fourth faction," Shiroe repeated in a dark tone, "or more appropriately, a fourth group of inhabitants." he pointed to the young Sorcerer standing beside Isuzu," Rudy is a Person of the Land, the first and original inhabitants of this world. We, the Adventurers, are the second." there was a brief pause while his eyes narrowed slightly. "The Travelers, those that Roe2 had mentioned in the letter, are the third. Together, these three groups are what the fourth verse is refering to. However, it seems there will be another one."

"But who could that be?" the Guardian crossed his arms and stared at the ceiling as he racked his brains for possible candidates. "The Ancients? Monsters?"

"No," Shiroe shook his head, brows creasing. "Those two you just mentioned were already here. The prophecy has specifically stated that the fourth one will arrive later." He swept his gaze across them as he let the last word sank in. Surprisingly, it took them less than a second to realize what he meant.

"You don't mean..." Naotsugu began with his eyes almost bulging out of their sockets.

"There will be another one, a new addition." Akatsuki finished, her face grim.

For a moment, nobody spoke.

Their expressions were those of growing dread and disbelief. Even Nyanta, who was usually calm and unperturbed in most situations, had a troubled look on his face - and for good reason. The arrival of a new group would signal another shift in the balance of this world. Especially now that they had to deal with this mysterious Travelers. Their relationship with some of the nobles were civil and solely for trade purpose and mutual defense at best. However, if these new arrivals were also enemies, then that would surely change.

"So, does this mean the effects of the Apocalypse are still happening?" Isuzu asked in a weak voice.

Nodding gravely, Shiroe answered. "I'm afraid so," he leaned forward on the table and clasped his hands under his chin. "And I have a feeling it will continue like this the more we stay here."

The room was engulfed in silence once again. Each of them were still having a hard time processing what they had just learned. If the prophecy proved accurate, there's no telling what sort of impact it would have to their lives, especially to the Landers. In a world where they, the Adventurers, were the most powerful, a new race would make the People of the Land feel even more threatened. Worse, some of them might even declare a war against them which might cause a really big problem. Add the fact that the Apocalypse was still changing the world around them, it would certainly affect every action and decision they would make in the future.

This is going to be bad. We are not yet stable enough to deal with such things, especially now that Minami is setting their sight on us. If worse comes to worst, we may have to issue a pact with them. My only problem will be Nureha...

"Shiroe, may I borrow that book for a second?" Tetra suddenly asked, eyeing the tome with curiousity.

All eyes except Shiroe's immediately turned to her. They were surprised that the Cleric would want to read it, given that she(or he, depending on who was asked) was not much of the bookworm type. She prefers singing after all, despite how awful she was at it. Plus, flirting with a certain guardian was also one of her past-times.

"Why do you want to borrow it?" Naotsugu blinked.

They half expected her answer to be something that would help them understand the prophecy better. However, Tetra being Tetra, gave them her most typical yet ridiculous response.

"Because I want to know if that book has predicted my rise to stardom!" The pink-haired self-proclaimed 'Galaxy Idol' smiled widely as she struck a pose.

In in instant, all the tension in the air vanished.

"You? Rise to stardom?" Naotsugu stared at her incredelously. "HELL NO!"

"Why not?" the Cleric pouted in a cute way and jumped on his broad shoulders, putting her face closer to him much to the chagrin and embarassment of the bulky guardian.

"Because your singing is bad!" he said exasperatedly. "And could you please get off me?" The guardian tried to shake her away. However, the pink-haired idol was firmly latched on his body.

"My singing is not bad!" She protested and held on tight, wrapping her arms around Naotsugu's neck, "And I won't go away unless you admit it!"

"But it is bad!" he stood up.

"It is not!" Tetra pouted again, rubbing her cheeks on his.

"It is! And stop rubbing yourself against me!"

By now, everyone was trying very hard not to laugh at the scene in front of them. Naotsugu's face was beet red in sheer embarassment, flapping his arms like a chicken in an attempt to throw off the pink-haired beauty clinging to him. However, Tetra's hold was so tight that no amount of thrashing could dislodge her. Adding the fact that she was rubbing her body on Naotsugu in a cat-like manner, only a person with a very strong grip could pry her away.

"Stop it!" Naotsugu shrieked when Tetra pressed her chest on his shoulders.

"Oh, come on!" The Cleric giggled, "You know you want this too!" she batted her eyelashes at him flirtatiously, making everyone almost gag.

"This is kinda disturbing." Tohya muttered beside Minori before scooting away from the two males.

Meanwhile, behind the Samurai, a certain blonde Sorcerer was also staring at the book with keen interest. There was a strange gleam in his eyes, a sort of childish excitement. And while the others were focused on Tetra's sexual harassment of Naotsugu, he quietly approached the table and picked up the tome to browse through its contents.

"Rudy, what are you doing?" Isuzu frowned at her battle partner. Approaching from behind, she glanced over at his shoulders and saw his fingers eagerly flipping through the pages.

"This is the key, Miss Isuzu!" Rudy said with voice shaking in excitement. "This is the key!"

Not quite understanding what he meant, the bard blinked in confusion. "The key to what?"

"The key... to my destiny!" the sorcerer exclaimed with eyes shining in delight. "This book may contain a prophecy about me, about my rise to greatness! Imagine that, Miss Isuzu! My name will be written in books! Children will hear stories about me and my wonderful and exciting adventures! Girls and princesses will swoon every time my name is spoken, and boys and young princes will try to follow in my footsteps! Kingdoms and empires will erect magnificent statues of me!" cackling in glee, Rudy thrust out his right hand and clenched it.

"And I, Rundelhaus Code, will be known throughout history!"

For a moment, Isuzu stared at the young man as he struck pose after pose and talked about his splendid abilities that would be known all over the land. She tried to imagine what he just said, especially the statue part. She really did. However, the scene that immediately came to her mind does not quite fit the description Rudy was hoping for.

Many people bowing in front of statues and swooning over pictures... of a golden retriever.

On the couch opposite them, Shiroe could only sigh at the comical scenes transpiring in front of him. He couldn't decide which group was the worst: this one, or the one he had joined five years ago? Good thing Kanami wasn't here though. He knew he would not last an hour with his former leader around, even if he has an immortal body.

"What a lively day, nya?" Nyanta approached with a smile. The werecat stood to the enchanter's left, silently watching Naotsugu trying to escape Tetra's grasp while Rudy continued to ramble about his 'destiny'.

"Are you going to tell the Alliance about this?" the veteran player quietly asked.

Knowing what he meant, Shiroe shook his head. "At first, that was my plan." he admitted, "But after thinking about it, I changed my mind."

"Because of the last line, nya?" Nyanta said with a serious expression.

The enchanter raised an eyebrow slightly, though he was not surprised that his friend had thought the same thing as he did. Having been part of the same group for four years, they already knew how each of their mind works, even to the point that no verbal communication was needed in some cases.

"Yes," Shiroe adjusted his glasses and answered truthfully. "Although I do not doubt their loyalties and motives, but it is still better to be safe than be sorry. Besides," he added with a shrug, "the word 'black' holds different meanings and can be applied to various things. It can be a color, a description for an emotion, a name. Even a title."

"Like 'Dark Shiroe', for example." He smiled wryly.

"My lord, you shouldn't be too harsh on yourself." Akatsuki admonished from his right. "Surely, the last line of that prophecy doesn't refer to you. You're too kind to cause harm to other people," she said with conviction.

"Akatsuki, just because someone's nice doesn't mean they can't be dangerous." Shiroe sighed. "We all know what other people are thinking about me, and they have every right to do so. I may not cause harm, but I still pose a threat to some of them. Especially to the nobles."

Turning around, he placed a hand on her head and smiled warmly at her. "Thanks for what you said though."

The petite ninja flushed once again, averting her gaze and mumbling under her breath. Chuckling in amusement, Shiroe withdrew his hand and watched as Naotsugu finally managed to pry away a giggling Tetra.

"In any case," the enchanter's expression turned serious once again, "letting the Black Swords hear of this might cause some problems. Even though there's a high chance that Isaac will not take this seriously, I don't want to take any unnecessary risks. Same goes for the other guilds."

"Even the Crescent Moon?" Nyanta asked.

"Especially them," Shiroe nodded. "I don't trust Marielle or any of her member's skills in keeping secrets." he said with a grimace. "At least, not with this kind of information."

The werecat nodded, and the three of them fell into silence. They watched as Isuzu dragged a protesting Rudy away from the book while Tohya and Minori were both trying to dodge Naotsugu's flailings as Tetra once again latched on him.

"Well, that's it then." Shiroe stood up and yawned, "I'll be going back to my room to sleep."

"Shall I escort you there, my lord?" Akatsuki inquired, staring at him with worry.

Out of the corner his eyes, Shiroe noticed Minori suddenly fixing her gaze in his direction, eyes narrowed dangerously.

Uh oh...

"No need," the enchanter said dismissively with a nervous chuckle. "I can manage." He immediately turned around to face Nyanta. "Chief, I'm leaving everything to you for a while."

"No problem, nya." The werecat smiled and patted him on the shoulder. "Get some sleep. You deserve it."

"Thanks," Shiroe nodded before walking toward the stairs. "If anything comes up, don't hesitate to-"

And then, he felt it. A strong pulse that washed over his body and shocked him as if he was struck by a lightning, making his vision spun out of control. Clutching his head in growing discomfort, he found himself wobbling on his legs when he tried to take a step, only for his knees to finally gave in as he collapsed on the floor.

"My lord!"

"Shiroe!"

In an instant, Akatsuki was beside him with a worried expression, followed swiftly by Minori. The two girls kneeled on either side, gazing at him anxiously. Around them, the rest of the guild stood dumbstruck at the scene for a moment before composing themselves and rushing to his side.

"Shiroe, are you alright?" Nyanta asked as he kneeled beside Akatsuki. Shiroe's face was pale, and his eyes seemed unfocused. His hands were cold as well and trembling slightly.

Minori stood up and readied her staff. "I'll try to cast a healing spell!"

"Me too!" Tetra raised her own.

However, before they could even open their mouths again, the two healers suddenly cried in pain and dropped their equipment, clutching their head. Rudy followed shortly after, collapsing on the floor and groaning.

The sudden turn of events sent the others panicking even more. Tohya immediately stood beside Minori and supported her while Isuzu quickly helped Rudy to his feet. Meanwhile, Naotsugu rushed to a whimpering Tetra, leaving only Nyanta and Akatsuki to tend with Shiroe.

"What the hell is happening?!" Naotsugu freaked out. Despite his usual cheerful and perverted attitude, seeing four of his friends collapsed one by one without any visible reason almost sent his mind into shock.

Surprisingly, it was Shiroe himself who spoke.

Groaning in pain, the enchanter tried to sit up with the help of Akatsuki. His body was still weak from that burst of energy he felt just a minute ago. And although there was still a slight pounding in his skull, it was already gradually subsiding, allowing him to form coherent thoughts. Thankfully, none of his memories seemed to be missing, unlike what he assumed would be happening just before he blacked out for a second.

"I'm alright." Shiroe muttered before wincing. His head still hurts, despite slowly recovering from the shock.

"My lord, are you sure?" Akatsuki asked in concern.

Smiling reassuringly at her, Shiroe nodded. He sat up, supporting himself with an arm. Glancing around, he saw three of his members in the same state as him, and a quick look at their condition already told him what he needed to know.

"You felt it." he stated, staring more intently at Minori and Tetra. Of the four of them, the two girls looked like they were affected just a few seconds later than him. As for Rudy, despite being the last, he was actually the first one to fully recover.

"Y-Yes." Minori answered with a shaky voice, her hands trembling. "What was it, Shiroe? My body almost went numb. I've never felt anything like it before."

"Indeed." Rudy agreed as he leaned on Isuzu. "It's like someone has casted a paralyzing spell directly on my soul. I almost collapsed just like you if not for my overflowing sense of duty and my rock hard resillence."

"Actually, you did." Isuzu muttered under her breath.

"Yeah!" Tetra nodded. "Even my cuteness was not enough to protect me from that awful sensation!" she shivered and edged closer to Naotsugu.

His expression turning even more serious, Shiroe sat up straighter. "I... I don't really know what it was too," he admitted and adjusted his glasses. "I felt a strong pulse, but it came out of nowhere. However, I could tell that it radiated somewhere within the city."

"But why didn't some of us felt it?" Tohya frowned in confusion, his right arm wrapped around his sister protectively.

"Because only magic-oriented class can feel those things," the enchanter answered. "And judging by its effects, it must be really strong. In fact, I can still feel traces of it."

No, not just traces, he thought suddenly.

He stood up. "This calls for an emergency meeting with the Round Table. I'm very certain that all magic-users have felt it, and-"

He was suddenly interrupted by a loud chime. Recognizing it as a call, he immediately answered and cupped his left hand beside his ear.

"Hello, Marielle." Shiroe greeted. Glancing at his members, he noticed Naotsugu frowning in confusion.

"Shiroe, we have a problem!" the guild master quickly shouted at the other end without preamble. "You need to come here immediately!"

"Why? What happened?" he said, alarmed. There was a sinking feeling in his stomach telling him that whatever news Marielle had brought, it was connected to the energy burst they had felt.

Of course, he was right.

"It's the Intercity Transport Gates!" she said in rising panic.

"They are activating!"

Confession time.

When I first saw Log Horizon's episode 1, I immediately dropped it. It didn't clicked for me, the story is not as serious as SAO, the MC and characters looked dull and boring, blah blah.

Fast forward to a month later. I was bored, having no animes to watch anymore. So I decided to watch this show that I HATED with a passion because of how people think highly of it despite SAO being way better.

Five days later, I was already playing its main theme on my phone over and over again and mimicking the "Villain in Glasses". :3

Sword Art Online and Log Horizon are POLAR opposites, and that's something most people couldn't see or understand. Whereas the former is more on romance, plot and real life issues like trauma and survivor's guilt, the latter is on the gaming aspect itself as well as world building, politics and strategy. In other words, neither one is better than the other since they each focus on different themes entirely.

And that's what makes them a perfect combination. :D

Readers, I hope you would enjoy my very first crossover fic for two of my favourite animes. Characters may be slightly OOC sometimes, though that's to be expected since it's one of my weak points. Also, this is slightly AU. For the purpose of this story, The Apocalypse happened in 2025. That's three years after SAO's launch. Obviously, the VRMMORPG genre is already booming by that time, but Elder Tale is still popular due to its complexity and its unique features.

So far, that's the only changes I made. I would like to also add that I'll be using some of Crunchyroll's translation for the character names from LH, and since I haven't read the novels themselves - again - I'll be using the anime as a basis.

Anyway, that should be it. The prophecy sounds lame to me, but I will let you guys be the judge. ;) Oh, and if you could give me some links to a nice SAOxLog Horizon fan art, feel free to send them. :)

Please Read & Review!

Until next time!

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I almost forgot. This is set DURING SAO's Mother's Rosario arc, and that means one thing.

Yuuki is alive.

*waits patiently for Yuuki fans to scream in delight*