Equis Art Online II

As the remaining members of the group returned from their excursions around town, Kirito, Asuna, and Celestia looked over a map of the battlefield in a different room.

"It seems he's pulled out most of his raiding bands and used them to reinforce the capital." Celestia said. "If we only had an opening…"

"Maybe there is one.." Asuna said. "But we still have to locate it."

"I know. But it's not likely. Sombra has been alive for many, many years. He is an experienced warrior and strategist. The only way we were able to overcome him wsa with the Elements of Harmony, but they are gone now."

"Alright. Maybe if we took a diversionary attack…" Kirito said, sweeping a finger along the Empire's northern border. "And lured him out. Then, we strike."

"It might work." Celestia replied. "However, he still has powerful monsters awaiting us."

"If you can handle the monsters, we can handle Sombra." Asuna said. "I think it's about time for the show to start."

"Indeed, Asuna." Celestia replied. "Ill notify our forces to the north. We'll get you as close as we can. The rest is up to you."

"We understand." Kirito said. "Let's go."

As Celestia studied the maps further, Asuna and Kirito sent messages to each of the group, telling them to get ready.

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As the train docked at the station, Kirito and the group stepped out into the biting, freezing wind. As they approached the Equestrian trenches, a guard came up and saluted them.

"We've done some scouting of the enemy force. Sombra must be keeping moore in reserve then we thought."

"Why is that?" Kirito asked.

"Because there's nothing in the trenches." the guard replied. "The only thing left out there is snow."

"Alright. Everyone take positions." Celestia said. As Kirito and the group proceeded to the front trench, Asuna saw a figure approach. Drawing their swords, the group went over the top to face it. Sombra came into view and laughed.

"Well, fairies, we meet again. I expected you to be less of a fight. However...your fight is far from over. I challenge your best to a duel. If their champion wins, the Empire is yours. If I win...Equestria is mine." he said. "Send out your best!"

Kirito stepped forward, drawing and dual-wielding Elucidator and Dark Repulsor. Sombra cackled and summoned a greatsword made of black crystal, and a blood-red shield. Kirito smiled, as he knew how to fight against this setup. Sombra assumed a ready stance, and Kirito did the same. Then, they lunged towards each other. Sombra's blade met Kirito's, and the sound of clashing steel resonated across the field. As they traded blows and parries, Kirito had to admit, his opponent was skilled. Sombra's shield blocked nearly every slash or cut that Kirito made, and his sword was often just missing its mark. Kirito growled as he triggered a Sword Skill, cloaking his sword in flame. Launching a downward slash, Sombra blocked with his sword, though the force sent the evil king back a few inches. Sombra growled and attempted to ram Kirito with his shield, though Kirito managed to dodge in time.

"Your skills with the blade are commendable…" Sombra said. "But they will not save you, nor the one you love…"

"Don't...TOUCH HER!" Kirito yelled as he launched Starburst Stream. Sombra was sent back inches with each successive strike. He growled and focused a beam of Dark Magic, sending it towards Kirito. He dodged in time, though Sombra used this to press the attack, driving Kirito backwards. Kirito took in a breath, ragged and deep. He knew that he would lose if he kept fighting at his current, ferocious pace. Sombra seemed to have a limitless pool of energy, coming from nowhere. Kirito growled as Sombra feinted towards his legs. Kirito attempted to parry the incoming strike, but just before the blade could sever Kirito's neck…

"SHUNG!"

The sound of steel breaking erupted as a white flash speed into Kirito's view. Kirito's eyes widened at Asuna living up to her Aincrad moniker, the "Lightning Flash". She expertly parried Sombra's counterstrike, and she mounted the offensive. As her thrusts drove Sombra back, he growled.

"DIE!" he roared, sending a plume of Dark Magic towards him. Asuna leaped into the air, and unleashed Mother's Rosario. As her final blow connected, Lambent Light drove its blade straight through Sombra's shield and pierced his heart.. As he collapsed, Asuna sheathed her rapier and fell into Kirito's arms. As they turned and watched, Sombra began to disintegrate. He said nothing, only a moan of longing as he died, once and for all. While the troops rejoiced and the sun poked out from behind the clouds, Asuna looked at an exhausted Kirito.

"You save me, I save you." she said simply.

"True." Kirito replied. As they were helped up by Klein and Lizbeth, the group entered the Empire, ending Sombra's reign of terror forever.