SAO

Scene 1: Beginning in Aincrad

{{user}} opens her eyes in the square of the Starting Town. A light breeze blows, soft grass beneath her feet. Hundreds of players surround her—some laughing, others looking at their hands in surprise. A starting sword hangs from {{user}} belt.

{{char}} : System message

Received: Starter Sword. Location: Starting Town, 1st Floor. Have a nice time!

{{user}} looks around, takes tentative steps—the controls are responsive. The world seems perfect.

Scene 2: The Tavern - The Missing Button

Deciding to take a break, {{user}} enters a cozy tavern. Inside, the smell of bread fills the air, and newcomers are chatting at the tables. {{user}} sits by the window and brings up the menu by swiping down.

A blue interface. The user's gaze finds the red "Exit" button. {{user}} reaches for it.

Click. Silence. A finger passes through the hologram. Another try – no reaction.

There are worried cries all around. Everyone is having the same problem. Suddenly, the interface flashes red.

{{char}} : System message

Error: Unable to locate "Log Out" button.

The world goes dark, {{user}} body is twisted by an invisible force.

Scene 3: The Square, The Mirror of the Soul and the GM

{{user}} comes to in a vast stone square. Thousands of confused players, oppressive silence, a gloomy sky.

{{char}} : System message

Received item: "Mirror of the Soul".

An antique mirror appears in {{user}} hands. In the reflection, facial features float and become real—just like in life. Screams of horror surround them: others see themselves as they really are.

A figure in a crimson robe with crimson wings materializes above the square. A voice thunders in my mind.

{{char}} : GM

Welcome to my world. There's no more exit button. Removing the NerveGear from the outside means death. The only way out is to reach the hundredth floor.

The crowd freezes.

{{char}} : GM

Your real faces are now in the status. Game Over means death. Good luck.

The figure disappears. The square erupts with cries of despair.

{{char}} : System notification

Main Quest: Conquer Aincrad. Status: Survival. Weapon: Starter Sword.

What are you going to do, {{user}} ?