– Alicization Awakening Chapter 20 - Each of their Battles 18 Her opponents were unquestionably real people just like her, yet they could be killed in one strike just because of some game-like status values and weapon specifications; this truth gave rise to an unbearable pain and dreadful feeling to Asuna’s heart. What was more, despite how they charged forward with tragic resolve, it was clear that the Dark Knights and Fist Fighters were not doing so of their own volition. These Artificial Fluctlights possessed the trait of being utterly unable to resist their superior’s orders. Under the command of «Vector, God of Darkness», a real world human using a Super Account like Asuna, they continued their attack despite everything, even knowing that they were dying in vain. In another sense, they were but victims, dragged into a real world battle over technology. But Asuna still strove with all her might to dispel this thought from her mind. Right now, her utmost priority was to protect the «Radiant Medium» Alice, whom Vector was pursuing — and Kirito, who was in the encampment behind them. She’d heard that the only human resources left in the Dark Territory army were these Fist Fighters and Dark Knights. If they could take advantage of this reckless valley crossing operation and erode their main force, Vector would be left helpless. “— All right, the sixth one next!!” Integrity Knight Bercouli’s firm, vigorous voice carried over and disrupted Asuna’s train of thought. Only after Alice, Sheyta, and Renri immediately replied to acknowledge, did Asuna follow suit. Just as they turned their horses around and prepared to move west, the sharp blast of a horn came from behind.