Echoes of Aincrad Lore & World View

Until a few centuries ago, overworlders were summoned via rituals carried out in towers such as these. However, human-built summoning towers had a low success-rate, and seemed ill-suited to the task; nowadays it is far more common to use elven ruins for this purpose. The people of Aincrad value overworlders for their ability to help out—yet who summoned them in the first place, and why, remains shrouded in mystery.

The temple dedicated to the two goddesses of the old high elven faith tells us this: when the world was whole, the two Sacred Trees at its center each had a priestess who served it. They spoke for the great trees, and unleashed a great magic to stop a terrible war at the cost of their own lives, banishing the embattled lands to the sky. The lineage of priestesses ended there...

The ruins of what used to be a village. It was only recently destroyed. Monsters in Aincrad encroach on human lands more and more every year, and an increasing number of people are being driven from their homes. Adventurers are needed to control their spread, and this is how many overworlders make their livings.

A large building tucked away in the outskirts of the city. It was not always part of the urban area, and was built by an eccentric nobleman as a vacation home in monster-infested lands. It was abandoned within days. This was hardly surprising, and many wondered at the nobleman's motivations. Adventurers who camp here have a pretty good idea, however. One can only sympathize with the nobleman as they glimpse the morning sunrise over Megalith Forest, a welcome relief for those whose hearts are battered and bruised.

"The archetypal high elven faith is a form of dualistic polytheism that focuses on two twins: the Black Goddess Lura and the White Goddess Om. These are probably variants of the two priestesses of myth." —From an inscription left by a researcher.

Ruins that whisper tales of eternal adventure sometimes grant people a chance at an enchanting romance. This place, located near the Town of Beginnings, has been a lovers' meeting place for nobles and peasants, city-dwellers and adventurers, and even those from other far-off lands. Bards sing songs of lovers sitting on the steps of the half-submerged tower, holding each other's hands and gazing at the reflection of the trees on the water's rippling surface.

Aincrad is a land without war. It is an isolated island, detached from the overworld to contain a great war that took place many eons ago, and then divided into multiple layers, inaccessible to each other to prevent nations from waging needless territorial skirmishes. The vacant folly of war can be glimpsed in the weathered ruins of ancient forts which mar the landscape like old battle scars.

Giant statues of knights can be found throughout the 1st Floor. Unlike overworlders, the people of Aincrad, who were vulnerable after the Great Separation, placed these statues as a show of force to protect themselves from external enemies. However, as humanity lacked the ability to produce such large statues at the time of their creation, it is theorized that they were constructed by dwarves in exchange for the rich-flavored mead that the ancient humans brewed.

In Aincrad, where wheat and barley are the staple crops, the windmill was invented fairly early as a means of milling the grains using the strong winds that buffeted the airborne land. Over the course of millennia spent in the air, other inventions sprung up, like water mills, eyeglasses, clocks, the three-field system of farming, reinforced buildings, and chimneys. Even black gunpowder was created, but due to the magic binding Aincrad, which prevents any manner of projectile weapon, it can only be used for mining.

The waterway is the only safe way to cross the 1st Floor, which is teeming with monsters. Because there are no seas on the first floor, boats and other vessels remain underdeveloped, and the most that can be managed is a simple craft to cross a lake or river. Though simplistic, it is enough to allow for trade between the various cities.

When Aincrad was still part of the overworld, each human tribe believed in their own native gods. However, these old religions were forgotten in the Great Separation, and now many worship the high elves—the ancient beings who supposedly created Aincrad.

One of the many fascinating sights to be found on the 1st Floor. A small cave lined with fang-like rocks, its name comes from the resemblance of the cascading falls to hungry wolves on the prowl. Despite numerous monsters blocking the way, one glimpse of this scenery somehow makes it all seem worth it.

A Safe Area is an indispensable place to rest when traversing monster-infested territory outside of the city. Nevertheless, there is never a guarantee that one will be nearby, and many hardy souls prefer to camp out in the wilds with only branches and cloth to shield them from the elements. They know that desperately searching for a Safe Area will only put them in danger.

A shrine that protects the road and wards evil away from the Town of Beginnings. Legend has it that if you pray at one on the morning of your departure, you are guaranteed a safe journey, making adventurers, who live their lives on the edge, a constant sight here. Many humans living in Aincrad revere the elves as gods, for they are believed to have created the world. However, the beings this shrine is dedicated to are closer to fairies or spirits. Perhaps it is the remnant of an old faith that existed when Aincrad was still part of the overworld.

Popular belief holds that this signpost stays alight through ancient elven magic. Researchers have found that it is made of the same material as the Megaliths, absorbing the magical energy that flows naturally through the ground of Aincrad and releasing it in small amounts to stay lit. While it serves as a signpost now, it has stood for centuries, and no one knows when or why it was actually put there. This mystery has fascinated people throughout the different ages of Aincrad. One theologian theorized that the light is sacred, the means by which the goddesses of creation will guide their followers to heaven. The hunters of the forest claim that it marks a hunting trail, and the light was put there to attract animals for the elves to hunt. Village elders say that it marks a safe path, and serves as a guiding light put there by the elves to ensure no one gets lost in the forest. One traveler said that it was pointless to search for meaning in such a trivial object, and that not every mystery in the world needs to be explained. The locals grew enraged at this, but in response the traveler simply pulled his hood tighter and muttered, "Well, it looks nice, and because lots of people pass by it, it just kind of naturally became a road..." before shuffling off in a hurry. The ears under the traveler's hood were unnaturally long...

The remains of a temple of the high elven faith, abandoned long ago. Some researchers refer to this place, and the High Elven Ruins beneath, as the "Temple of Doors." Rumors claim that they are carrying out experiments related to teleportation and overworlders in secret using the mechanisms within.

The faith of the high elves, which holds sacred the gods who created Aincrad, forbids any investigations of Heaven's Rift or the other elf ruins scattered throughout the land. However, human curiosity is not so easily contained, and many break this taboo and carry out research regardless. These researchers continue to track down remote locations in order to pursue the truth of Aincrad's creation.

A famous spot within the marshes, where wrecks of ancient vessels lie scattered. The scenery here tells the tale of Aincrad's past, when it was once part of the overworld. Back then, the area surrounding this place was a large lake. Even now, thousands of years after the Great Separation, the fact that these remains still exist is a testament to the power of the elven magic flowing throughout Aincrad.

Kobolds do not have any particular faith or gods that they follow. However, they fear natural phenomena that they lack the capacity to understand, believing them to be supernatural in origin and making offerings to alleviate any perceived suffering. People refer to these offerings as Kobold's Altars.

A simple light that illuminates the road. Or is it? It is in fact a trap set by a group of shrewd demi-humans who noticed that humans tend to approach sources of light to alleviate their anxieties. But because they chose the location poorly, it ended up on a busy thoroughfare, ironically proving helpful to the many adventurers whose way it lights.

When Aincrad was still part of the overworld, the human race was divided into tribes, each living in their own separate settlement. However, they were under constant threat from the other races, and eventually banded together under the banner of the Alliance of the Nine Kingdoms. There, they researched magic in order to replicate the spells of the elves and dwarves, and their culture flourished. But the Alliance of the Nine Kingdoms was destroyed after the Great Separation, and now only ruins remain. A millennium later, human settlements take the form of city-states, each with its own political system.

Even in the unforgiving environment of Aincrad, where monsters run rampant and game is scarce, humans have been able to cultivate wheat, barley, and other crops to sustain themselves. However, the land needed for this has been overrun by monsters over the years, and the locals have no choice but to turn to overworlder adventurers to take back the land that was once theirs.

These floating islands can be seen across Aincrad, and were once fragments of the world below, sent skyward in ages past. It is widely believed that at their base is the Heaven's Rift. Believers of the high elven religion were said to demonstrate the purity of their faith by walking the arduous path to Heaven's Rift barefoot.

Approximately one thousand years ago, the Alliance of the Nine Kingdoms, a human nation that existed on the overworld, was engulfed in a war that consumed the entire world. The belligerents of the war were the dark elves of the Lyusula kingdom and the forest elves of the Kales'Oh kingdom. The Nine Kingdoms allied themselves with the dark elves and the dwarves with Kales'Oh, pitting the denizens of the world against each other. Even with Aincrad banished to the sky, the scars of this ancient conflict remain on the land, haunting it.

Around one millennium ago, nine races lived together on the earth, and two Sacred Trees, one black, one white, maintained balance across all of creation. The dark elves who worshipped the black tree formed the kingdom of Lyusula, while the forest elves who worshipped the white tree formed the kingdom of Kales'Oh. The benediction of the Sacred Trees, along with the powerful magic that stemmed from each of them, led both races to great prosperity among the nations of the world. The elven towers found across Aincrad are not made of wood, nor stone, but a magical substance known as elven steel, demonstrating just how advanced this ancient civilization was.

The high elven religion, which worships the ancestors of the elves, is comprised of multiple sects. Among their ranks, the temples of the old faith, which has the longest and most storied history, differ slightly from the others, often featuring designs dedicated to the two priestesses who served the two Sacred Trees.

Most human civilization found in Aincrad takes the form of city-states, with elected mayors, along with assemblies and guards established in their laws. The guards are a fairly recent addition, focused on maintaining order within cities rather than acting as a military force. However, scouting outside the city limits remains an important job; monsters need to be kept from attacking built-up areas, so guard posts can be found scattered throughout the outer limits of the cities. However, the mortality rate for guards sent to these posts is high, and they tend to be deserted, existing only as mere symbols.

Demi-humans lack a developed society; they can draw simple pictures and patterns but have not developed writing. Their technology is limited to basic actions such as hammering, carving, and knot-tying, so they often steal tools from the other races. They have a particular fondness for colorful cloths, which they weave together to decorate and mark their territory.

Contrary to popular belief, demi-humans do not eat humans. They also do not eat monsters, instead enjoying a symbiotic relationship with them. Their staple food is animal meat, which they can cook using simple methods such as grilling and boiling, and when they find themselves unable to hunt, they will instead forage nuts and fruit. However, as a species with few allegiances, they will not hesitate to turn their blades on other races in order to steal tools and livestock.

A mansion that once belonged to humans, but now lies within demi-human territory. The original owners were probably attacked by the demi-humans, who were likely searching for a place to gather water, and scattered to the winds. During the overworld era, when elves and humans both possessed magic, demi-humans feared its power and lived in the shadows—but in Aincrad, where magic is a lost art, they have become much more brazen, and attack the other races with impunity.

Honey is a valuable commodity on Aincrad's 1st Floor, able to fetch a high price at market. It has many uses, from sweetening meat dishes to brewing mead. However, bees are highly sensitive to magical energy and will not go near any area surrounded by magical barriers. This means that beekeepers must locate their hives where there is no magical protection, making it a potentially life-threatening occupation.

The outer walls of each floor of Aincrad consist of the same magical material as the Maze, with a barrier extending at a radius of 25 miles around it. This barrier cuts Aincrad off completely from the rest of the world, isolating it and ensuring constantly sunny weather. The magic wall is made from elven steel, a unique mixture of ash, special soil, and tree sap; it is so expertly constructed that it shines and looks exactly like iron to the untrained eye. Because of this, Aincrad is sometimes known as the Floating Castle of Steel.

Shrines of the high elven religion's True Elf sect tell stories of another species of elf, different from both dark elves and forest elves. They were banished to the north for the crime of stealing the sap of the two Sacred Trees, with the goal of making themselves impervious to blades. They thus came to be known as the fallen elves.

In Aincrad, where the ancient magic of the elves still flows through the land, special stones capable of responding to this magic are sometimes formed naturally through years of built-up exposure to the supernatural elements. Human researchers have managed to use these black stones to create magical barriers by placing them at the four corners of a Safe Area, and have also been able to create magical bridges. Rock fields where these magical stones can be found are very distinct, forming mounds that look as if someone had piled them up. These are known as Magic Stone Mounds, and people treat them with care and ensure they are not hoarded.

It is customary, in high elven shrines, to plant a tree in the inner sanctum and hold it sacred as an embodiment of divinity. This is a tradition modeled off the ancient elven worship of the black and white Sacred Trees.

The Floating Castle of Steel, created as a result of a great magic spell a thousand years ago, gouged earth from the ground and catapulted it into the sky. The earth was forcibly removed via a teleportation device, and after taking shape high above, it descended in layers, eventually forming the land of Aincrad. When the magic faded, some of the earth remained suspended, becoming the Floating Islands and giving Aincrad its distinctive look.

The climate of Aincrad varies heavily from one level to another. Calm plains, misty swamps, freezing mountains, among other climes, all share the same land. This mysterious phenomenon, impossible in any natural circumstance, was caused by the dimensional holes created by the teleportation device that moved space itself to create the floating surface; each layer synchronized with its original form, appearing just as it did below—including the time of day and weather.

The earth has much to say, if one has a mind to listen. Roughly a millennia ago, at the beginning of the Great War, as mages of the two elven kingdoms were on the brink of unleashing their greatest offensive magic, something most unusual occurred. The embattled plains were encircled by rings of light, some as large as ten kilometers in diameter. As many as one hundred of these rings appeared not only over battlefields, but also capitals and major urban centers. They gouged out the earth, sending the detritus soaring into the sky—along with any human or creature in the area. Thus would Lyusula, Kales'Oh, the Alliance of the Nine Kingdoms, and Aul'da see themselves wiped from the planet. The result of this process, which would later be known as the Great Separation, was the floating castle of Aincrad.

People throughout the ages have long been fascinated and charmed by the oddity of the tower, with its glistening exterior of silver and white. Over many years, numerous adventurers of all stripes have explored the maze-like interior of the Tower of Heaven—and lost their lives for their trouble. Yet, with each life lost, a valuable relic appears within the maze. Mysteriously, these relics primarily take the form of treasure chests, and are dotted throughout the tower in a seemingly deliberate manner. According to one theory, the tower's self-cleansing mechanism works to organize relics in order to maintain the flow of magical power; another less savory theory suggests that new adventurers are lured in using these treasures as bait, and that Aincrad's magic is replenished with their blood. Many wonder why the tower is structured in this way at all; why allow people to move freely within? Royal elven researchers speculate that the Twin Shrine Maidens may have left a test for those willing to brave the maze—a trial for those banished to the sky, and whose completion will see the twins finally return to the earth.

The fallen elves resented the two kingdoms that banished them and, in a bid for revenge, continued their dark activities from the northern lands, attempting to start a war between the two sides. As a result, tensions between the two countries grew, with diplomatic relations finally severed following the assassination of the princess of the Kingdom of Lyusula. That's right; it was all part of the plan they had cleverly devised. —From an inscription left by a researcher.

In the end, their attempt was thwarted by the other elven kingdoms, and their race was banished to the snowy regions of the north, where they came to be known as "fallen elves." In time, as is often the case with isolated groups, the lore surrounding the fallen elves grew distorted and murky; the dark elves consider them an offshoot of the forest elves, while the forest elves think them dark elves. Regardless, their true identity is not certain. —From an inscription left by a researcher.

Many demi-humans do not have the language necessary to communicate with other species. As such, we can only hazard a guess as to their culture or motivations. Nevertheless, demi-humans have been known to perform oddly civilized deeds, and this statue of a knight is one such example. Originally erected to intimidate demi-humans, the act was thwarted after they fashioned it in their own likeness. Many researchers see this not as some high-minded attempt at civility or art, but as something done for the demi-human's own base amusement.

This robust bridge, which its creators claimed would last a thousand years, has evidently fallen into severe disrepair. This vantage also offers a stunning display of the extreme magical power that caused the Great Separation. —An excerpt from a researcher's notes.

The silent, decayed ruins of this prehistoric site offer much to ponder. How did the once prosperous Alliance of the Nine Kingdoms, a nation of human beings lacking in magical power and unversed in spellcasting, come to wield such territorial power? The answer is actually quite simple: they devoted themselves entirely to iron and sword, developing and systematizing a multitude of Sword Skills able to counter magic. Here lie the faded remnants of a warrior nation as forged in steel as its innumerable glistening blades.

Everyone believes this world is some sort of paradise, but how can that be so, when monsters took my wife...? Why am I cursed to remain in this world? To me, this place is nothing more than a gilded cage. —From an altar inscription.

A statue of a god praised by the inhabitants of this region back when it existed on the surface. Humanity's memory is short, however, and the inhabitants of Aincrad have long since forgotten its divine provenance—presuming it to be an effigy of a demon or some kind of monster.

Remnants of extreme tactical magic used during the Great War a millennia ago. The Twisted Fangs were a mere experiment; the perfected version would be several hundred times more numerous and powerful. Blessedly, the earth was said to have been separated just before they could be unleashed on the battlefield.

Like the transfer gates, this was once an equipment terminal used to circulate magical power throughout Aincrad; however, human researchers rewrote its magic formula so that it could function as a space allowing for quick transferal and relative safety. These magical paths connect to the Teleport Gates and other Safe Areas, allowing users to travel instantly between terminals to a variety of locales. It can even be used as a Safe Area by creating an impenetrable magical barrier, barring monsters from entering. Since such places are invaluable to adventurers as places of rest, various camping tools, such as simple, magic-powered stoves, are often left behind. Terminals that have not been activated are like faucets that have been left open, spilling magical light from the terminal's orb that rises high into the sky. Adventurers subsequently use these as landmarks when searching for Safe Areas. Interestingly, while the term "Safe Area" is commonly used by overworlders who have been summoned to Aincrad, these places are called "small gates" by Aincrad's own denizens.

A forest whose presence in the desert defies all logic. It is inhabited by trolls, who also serve as its guardians. Trolls are not so dissimilar from spirits, such as dryads, and have the ability to vitalize the surrounding flora. Be that as it may, their very presence in the area remains a mystery. Trolls are demi-humans, and typically prefer moist, more densely forested climates. Perhaps someone may have created this "forest" in order to protect something important—a possibility only recently being explored by researchers.

Rivers flowed through this land when it was still one with the surface, sustaining the land and its people with water, the source of all life. After a thousand years it has withered away, and now the dried riverbeds carry a different, but no less vital, source of life—trade. Peddlers walk the once-flooded paths carrying water and food to various settlements. Indeed, though the land may change and shift, humanity's capacity for survival remains unwavering.

Originally, the main industry in this region was ore mining, with its excavation technology being particularly advanced. The dwarves, also in search of ore, joined with those who lived here, and as they mined together, the humans of the 2nd Floor acquired enough technology to build a city on the plateau. It is said that the dwarves disliked such barren environs, however, and soon moved on.

There are some in the church who know of the Great Separation—yet even they are ignorant in key areas. It is no surprise, for it was more than a thousand years ago that the cataclysm occurred. Only elves and dwarves, with their extended lifespans, could possibly recall the events with any clarity... Alas, only the royalty among them could possibly know the truth. Yet truth is a malleable thing, and the tales spoken by dark elves and forest elves may differ, colored by bias and failing memory. Indeed, we must work tirelessly to uncover the facts... —From an inscription left by a researcher.

This land, now withered, was once vibrant and green, until a "betrayal of the earth" incurred the wrath of the Great Spirit of Fire. The earth shook, rose, and erupted with flame, setting all alight and turning even the deepest roots to blackened ash.

Behold the aqueduct before you, proof that a great river once flowed through the land. So why, one might ask, has it dried up like this? One research scientist claims that it was all the work of an experiment in so-called "extreme magic" a thousand years ago.

The denizens of Aincrad have a variety of unique belief systems—some more socially accepted than others. Some even offer sacrifices to ancient gods in order to delay a coming apocalypse. Since such beliefs are ostracized for blurring the lines between human and demi-human, altars are typically set up in hard-to-reach places.

While the trolls support the Sanctuary's flora with their spiritual power, in actuality, their power alone is not enough to support the trees throughout the area. This is where the "fairy circle" plays a vital role, creating formations around older trees and drawing spiritual energy from a separate dimension wherein the spirits reside. Researchers believe that this arrangement is extremely similar to the relationship between the elves and the Sacred Tree, and are actively working to unpack its mysteries, while also experimenting with its appropriation by humans.

Beware, honest researchers. Some historians have been advocating a theory that the high elves may have been the culprits behind everything around us, and its supporters are gaining momentum. Researchers, realists, and politicians who believe in this theory have been growing increasingly active. Focus, and listen carefully. They are already on the move. —From an inscription left by a researcher.

Void of any humidity, the air here shifts between blistering heat in the day and freezing cold at night—but that isn't at all felt in the forest that surrounds the Sanctuary. There the air is moist and filled with elements that give the forest life. It would be normal to attribute this to the Sanctuary and the demi-humans entrusted with its protection, but could it be that the Sanctuary is itself akin to a living organism that requires such an environment to function? —From an inscription left by a researcher.

I have learned the secret of the Heaven's Rift, and have unveiled the magic behind teleportation. By which I mean that I have finally learned the truth behind the Great Separation! The priests of the high elven faith will surely try to stop me, but I will do everything in my power to report this terrible truth to the leaders of the cities no matter— (The rest is cut off and illegible). —From an inscription left by a researcher.

The land of Aincrad, in which space itself was transferred from the surface to the sky through dimensional holes, is still connected and synchronized with the surface area it was originally from. These severed portions of land, some of which have a diameter of around 8 miles, will thus never dry up due to the water being transferred from the surface.

Aincrad lost almost all of its magic after being separated from the surface and losing the protection of the two Sacred Trees. In addition, for reasons unknown, arrows no longer flew straight when released from a bow; thus was humanity's ability to wage war weakened, forcing them towards survival and cooperation.

There is no doubt about it: the Heaven's Rift is the true source of the twin goddesses' magic. It's just as I thought: they weren't deities; they were merely elves. The land of Aincrad is a man-made disaster...!

Water is a precious commodity on the 2nd Floor, with only certain areas—like this one—giving access to that vital resource. Under normal circumstances, creatures and people alike would flock to this area and eventually a town would form. Obviously, this did not happen. Instead people chose to dig for water in Safe Areas—proof of how terrifying it is to live outside of one.

I've seen many ruins in my life. Even on the 2nd Floor, there is no sign of people living outside of the Safe Areas. There should be no trade between the cities across levels, yet for some reason, citizens of all levels share the same lifestyle and level of civilization. They progress in unison, almost as if they are synchronized with one another. I can't help but feel that there is some kind of intention behind all of this. —From an inscription left by a researcher.

Have you heard of Magic Stones? According to a legend I found, whoever obtains one will be able to use the magic that was lost before the Great Separation. And I'm not talking some imitation spell or anything like that—I mean honest-to-goodness magic. But why would such a thing exist? Perhaps it has something to do with magic's disappearance from this world. —From an inscription left by a researcher.

"I miss it dearly—that majestic land of Yuniel. The scenery of a thousand years past, the beautiful snow and frost of the north, the isles large and small that surrounded the land. I miss the great black tree with its commanding needles, and the majestic white tree with its long, feathery leaves. All was in perfect balance, harmonious under the watchful boughs of those two trees..." With these words, the elven poet passed on.

Falling ash caused by volcanic activity has left the forest gray, its dead trees a mocking reminder of its former vibrancy. Many gloomy demi-humans who enjoy such desolation now call it home, though it is said to have originally been part of the Sanctuary.

Hold not the secret key. Open not the Six Doors. Touch not the magic stones within the Sanctuary. Give in not to Desire, the original sin of the twin souls.

This is where the river ends. As you can plainly see, there is no ocean, above or below ground. But you can sense a kind of fluctuation, can you not? This unnatural disconnect is a striking representation of the system keeping us alive. Water comes and goes; there is movement to and fro, into and out of this world. And yet those trapped here cannot move as we wish. I ask you, are we not less free than even the water we drink? What else could this place be but a cage? —From an inscription left by a researcher.

It would seem that my journey ends here. I have kept to my principles and hunted ever for the truth. But an inquisitive mind is a wasted thing in a world where the truth is manipulated by forces unseen. They will likely treat my research as though it never existed, which is why I have left inscriptions scattered far and wide. To those with an inquisitive mind, to those who travel far beyond the Safe Areas in search of mindful truths—I hope that you, who are reading this, will continue my research. And so, at long last, I engrave my name here. —Armet, first head of the Adventurer's Alliance

There was a village here once, but it's gone now. The 2nd Floor's harsh climate resisted any attempts to make this area livable, and these ruins are a testament to its obstinacy.

The temple before you does not belong to the Twin Goddesses. While, yes, they may be maiden goddesses, beneath them is Nika, also known as the goddess of harmony. Then there is the god of destruction and other nature-based deities that each goddess created from the earth. In other words, this is likely a temple to one of those gods. Idolatry is permitted in the high elven faith, and it would seem that not only statues, but even mirrors and swords, are worshipped as symbols of deities believed to dwell within. —From an inscription left by a researcher.

Behold, this tiny statue represents humanity. The people placed it next to the elven statue as a sign of their own righteousness in praising the high elves as gods. Little did they know that the high elves were the culprits behind this "caged world" in which we now live... Rulers who have learned of their deception now endeavor to unite the city-states scattered between the floors and create a unified "Supernation of Humanity," with their ultimate goal being the seizure of Aincrad. To achieve this, they are using the technology of the Heaven's Rift to summon overworlders and have them fight to unite the Tower of Heaven—all under the promise that they will be returned to their world. Is this truly fate, or merely another reflection of humanity's weakness? —From an inscription left by a researcher.

Perhaps this is a sign, a blessing, to have found water in such arid lands beyond the Safe Area? Well, I like to think it is. —A message left by an adventurer.

Elves are a species that live in harmony with trees, refusing to fell them and actively despising the iron so often used to destroy woodlands. To this end, their buildings do not use wooden frameworks. They instead burn dead and rotten trees, mix the ashes with special soil, and cast spells to create smooth, solid walls incorporating elven steel. Buildings made using these materials are typically minimalistic, and are expected to evoke tranquility and exist in harmony with nature.

The elves rarely show themselves to humans, so where could they possibly be living? One theory is that they use spells to hide their presence whilst staying close enough to keep an eye on the other races. Another posits a hole in the great tree that only elves can use, allowing discrete travel between the many floors. All of these theories seem dubious at best—yet plausible nevertheless. After all, elves are the descendants of the "gods who created this world."

Long ago, civilization on the surface should have prospered under the protection of the two Sacred Trees and the power of greater magic. There were two elven kingdoms, the human Alliance of the Nine Kingdoms, the dwarven underground kingdom of Aul'da, and myriad other, independent nations. But after the Great Separation, it seems that all of these civilizations have declined, mere shadows of their former glory. The overworlders keep it to themselves, but perhaps their civilization has surpassed our own, and we are the ones who have been left behind... —From an inscription left by a researcher.

Even with a city which appears so glittering and grand does the old adage hold true: the stronger the light, the darker the shadow. Adventurers should be wary of requests proffered from the gloom of back alleys, as they are often illegal and rarely endorsed by the Adventurer's Association.

The Adventurers' Association is an organization run by citizens of Aincrad that primarily manages overworlder adventurers. On the surface, their main duties are to broker requests and provide rewards to any who demonstrate exceptional performance; in reality, they ensure that the more powerful overworlders perform their duties without harming the people of Aincrad.

A huge chapel with a distinctive dome-shaped roof. It serves as a holy place for the high elven faith, but was built by humans to cover the ancient elven ruins, made of dark elven steel, underneath. In the upper level of the ruins is the "Hall of Transposition" where the overworlders are summoned, and the "Monument of Life" that is inscribed with their names. It also houses the prison where those who have committed crimes in Aincrad are forcibly transported via magic. In its deepest levels there is rumored to be a vast labyrinth stretching deep underground that leads to a Sanctuary—the heart of Aincrad.

The operation and management of ships—the only safe means of trade between cities—is considered vital, and has long been under the control of the Leone Trading Company. As a result, overworld adventurers are not permitted to use them at all.

Tolbana is a bustling town and the fastest way to the Maze, but thanks to its extensive history, it is also regarded as a town of culture. The town's amphitheater is especially famous for its theatrics, with touring troupes putting on shows according to the season, enriching the lives of the town's people through art.

While the culture of the 2nd Floor is different from that of the 1st, belief in the high elven faith remains just as deeply rooted. Its aspects are slightly different, however, with certain areas worshipping a "Cow-Headed God" in addition to the elves. Some researchers believe this is due to the high presence of cow-type monsters on the 2nd Floor, with these cow-oriented customs serving to mitigate the ire of those creatures.

Urbus' construction techniques are renowned as the best in all of Aincrad. They're able to construct tall and sturdy buildings using only wooden frameworks and earthen walls, without the aid of magic or large-scale construction machinery. Their excavation techniques using controlled explosives are particularly outstanding, allowing them to break down hard bedrock to dig wells and build living spaces that take advantage of the plateau's shape.

Water on the 2nd Floor is precious, and so the number of cups each household can draw from the public well is predetermined. Water veins are occasionally found under the plateaus that make up a large portion of the 2nd Floor, and so wells are dug through the rocky mountains and towns built around them.

Demi-humans do not have much body hair, making it difficult for many to regulate their temperatures. Unless they are engaging in activities like hunting, they generally choose to live in humid caves and avoid the sunlight.

Ruins found across Aincrad that serve as a tie between those in the present and the Swordsman of Salvation—a warrior who once saved the world from the God of Death. Even among elven ruins, it is rare to find ones that have retained their original form to this extent. Judging from their condition and the almost organic way their structure changes each time they are entered, they may be connected to the core of the very magic that sustains Aincrad.

Sanctums found throughout Aincrad that contain the relics of ancient elven saints. The Guardian that protects each relic is sealed along with it, and is said to bring misfortune to any who dare release them. Some researchers believe that Arks are a test to see if any can remove the fetters that bind Aincrad, and when all have been severed, the path to all of Aincrad will open.

Until you found this place, the ruins at the very back of the Temple of Doors were kept secret by researchers. They're engaging in some kind of experiment here, in these preserved High Elven Ruins. Perhaps they aim to summon overworlders en masse? In any case, I'm done for, so please, tell someone—tell anyone—about their presence here. If this experiment is successful, no doubt it will— The message ends here.

The Item Seller stalls found around town are operated by the Adventurer's Association. Contracted merchants are provided with identical, mobile kiosks from which to run their business.

There's something written on the door. "Well, well—you've found the entrance. Keep this to yourself, you hear?" — Anonymous noble

Thanks to Taran's abundant fruit harvests, the village tavern serves fruit wines alongside a wide variety of delicious and unusual cocktails.

Inns affiliated with the Adventurer's Association all have a similar layout, ensuring traveling adventurers feel at home wherever they stay.

Homes in Taran often display tapestries bearing the family's crest. When members of different families marry, both their crests are hung together, making the household's lineage immediately clear.

The Cattle God statues found across Taran are crafted by specialist sculptors who stake their lives for their craft. Under adventurer protection, these artisans venture outside the safe zone to study bovine monsters up close, before carving their vitality into stone. Such work deserves a respectful prayer.

Under the harsh sunlight of the 2nd Floor, awnings like these are a common sight. They are open to everyone, not just homeowners, and are often used as places to rest or conduct business.

With daytime temperatures running high on the 2nd Floor, stone warehouses for cold storage are indispensable. By blocking out sunlight and using ice buried underground, they keep food well preserved. Managed by the city guild, these facilities are open for public use.

In Marome, door emblems indicate the roles of those within. A blue emblem marks involvement in city governance.

Marome's bazaar offers the simple pleasure of casual dining. Its permanent terrace seating, open to all, makes it especially popular with visitors.

Like Urbus, Marome is built from tightly knit, interconnected homes. Though smaller in scale, its layout is more complex, which can cause even the locals to become lost without a map.

The sealed door bears a quiet warning: "Virtue ends here."

On the 2nd Floor, much of the land is a harsh, rocky desert, making water a precious lifeline. It's why the city was carved into the rock face—it sits atop a vital water source.

Many homes on the 2nd Floor are linked in winding, interconnected clusters. Designed to confuse outsiders, these layouts protect against rival tribes and bandits, showing just how harsh life is on this arid land.

The doors of 2nd Floor homes are marked with various geometric symbols. These are traditional wards passed down among the city's tribes, and are said to protect against illness and misfortune.

Some of these wards are actually fakes—indistinguishable to outsiders. Homes displaying genuine wards are said to shelter those "worth protecting," and any thief who forces entry will find traps so severe they'll never try again. In that sense, the wards live up to their name.

In cities on the 2nd Floor, where tall buildings and excavation techniques have advanced, flexible wooden scaffolding is a common sight. Architects from Urbus are especially renowned, even across Aincrad.

The wooden crates that support the bustling bazaar trade are, in fact, a product of Urbus. Light yet durable, they are treated with a secret charm that allows food stored inside to last twice as long.

Many nobles of the 1st Floor rose from merchant families or civic leadership. By contrast, the nobles of Urbus on the 2nd Floor are often philosophers—perhaps shaped by life on unforgiving land. Their ideas captivate listeners late into the night, earning them widespread respect.

A secret hideaway lies somewhere in Urbus, and offers rare food, drink, and other pleasures seldom found in the region. Membership is strictly limited, and wandering adventurers are never admitted.

Just as a vast Elven labyrinth sleeps beneath the 1st Floor's main gate, a massive core stone—said to contain part of the heart and magic of the Twin Priestesses—rests beneath the transfer gate of Urbus, the 2nd Floor's greatest city.

Fishing in the lake beside Tolbana is the town's primary industry. However, fishing is only permitted within the Safe Zone, and being able to judge that invisible boundary atop the water is a fisherman's most essential skill.

Tolbana's iconic amphitheater predates the city itself. Some say it was once a temple to a long-forgotten god, and that a legendary troupe performed there, drawing crowds that eventually formed the city.

In cities outside the main district, the central transfer device is known as a Mid Gate. Though often enshrined as a city symbol, in Tolbana it is overshadowed by the far more popular amphitheater and is quietly placed on the outskirts.

In Aincrad, monsters roam beyond the city gates, making transfer devices based on elven technology vital for travel. The largest, located in main districts, are called Teleport Gates, while those at city entrances are known as small gates.

Though Tolbana bustles with theater-goers by day, its backstreets tell a different story. These quiet alleys host secret dealings, stolen moments between lovers, and simple pleasures—like sharing bread from a nearby stall while sitting on street steps.

Tolbana's shipyard, which supports its fishing industry, is the heart of the city. Shipwrights there are held in such esteem that they outrank even nobles, and are regarded with both respect and awe.

Though the 1st Floor appears mild, its winters are harsh. In villages like Horunka, firewood for hearths is essential—a remnant of the climate from when the land still lay on the surface.

Horunka is famed for its dairy farming. Cream made from the milk of bovine monsters—procured by adventurers—is said to be so delicious that it can lift even the lowest of spirits.

In the past, Horunka thrived on sericulture, harvesting honey and silk from insects. Today, only a few enthusiasts continue to preserve the tradition.

In humid regions, where pests thrive in summer, raised-floor granaries are common. Originally developed to protect grain from floods back when the land lay below, the design remains in use today.

It's said that "Horunka folk value fragrance over bread." Every household keeps a herb or flower garden to create its own signature scent, which is passed down through the generations.

The gentle people of Horunka often gather at public fire pits to rest or chat. Anyone may use them, and what starts as grilling meat or fish often turns into hours of conversation.

A hidden landmark of the Town of Beginnings: a tree said to grant love to those who confess beneath it. A face-like hollow in its trunk has led to rumors of a spirit dwelling within. It often unsettles those who take a closer look.

On the 1st Floor, where Elven worship is widespread, goddess statues can be found across the land. Most are replicas made within the last few centuries, but it's said the original, carved a thousand years ago, still exists somewhere.

Only certified blacksmiths are allowed to craft equipment using overworlder techniques. The Adventurer's Association oversees these qualifications, administering strict exams to ensure safety.

To live safely in cities surrounded by danger, guards are indispensable. Their blades turn not only on monsters, but also on those who threaten the peace from within.

In cities cut off by danger, people plant flowers brought from all over Aincrad—small reminders of home amid the confinement.

A tower with bells that chime in various patterns to mark time, festivals, and emergencies. One sequence, however, has never been rung—and must never be. It signals that the Safe Zone has been breached and monsters have invaded the city.

A hidden landmark of the Town of Beginnings. During weddings and festivals, the frame is covered in flowers, forming a beautiful tunnel. It's said that passing through while making the same wish three times will see it granted.

I was extra careful to avoid enemies and reach this castle, and there's nothing even here. Who the hell builds an entire castle just to keep it empty? The world's first VRMMO, death games... None of this makes any sense! I paid good money for this because everyone was talking about it. If I'd known it would come to this, I never would have touched it. Damn you, Kayaba! — Message from an adventurer

One of the scouting party spotted what looked like writing carved into a stone statue. Despite our attempts to discern what it said, nothing came of it. No new dungeons, no useful leads. All that time wasted... It's no surprise everyone's feeling a little down. Under different circumstances, piecing together clues like this might actually be fun. Just...not here. Not like this. — Message from an adventurer

There might be some connection between this place and that elven statue we found earlier. There's so much more attention detail in this game than I ever would've expected. What's frustrating is not knowing whether any of it actually matters when it comes to beating it and getting out. I want to keep everyone in the party from losing heart, so we're eating well tonight. — Message from an adventurer

Something's up ahead. I can feel it. But our supplies are running low, and the enemies here are way stronger than we expected for it only being the first floor. Could we make it through if we had more people with us? We've pushed as far as we possibly can. I think it's time to call it quits. — Message from an adventurer

Hey, fellow adventurers— Watch out for spined enemies. They look like hyenas with long spikes running down their backs. The elites will launch those spines at you, and they explode even after you dodge them. Fair warning! You can have that tip for free. You're welcome. — Message from an adventurer

I was trying to think of something I could do to help keep the party's spirits up, but somehow they ended up worrying about me instead. Knowing that everyone feels the same way, that we all want to be there for each other, actually gave us all a much-needed boost. We ended up talking about life back in the real world, and it turned into one of the best nights we've had. Come to think of it, I don't think I've opened up this much to anyone since logging into this game. Our lives may be on the line, but still being able to just enjoy the little things like that means everything. I need to make sure I don't forget that. — Message from an adventurer

Magic does not exist in Aincrad—and yet it has never truly faded from memory. It lives on in legend, and the longing for its mystic power has never fully left the people here. The proof is everywhere: carved symbols, cryptic inscriptions, buildings etched with runes... All traces of magical research scattered across this floating world. Despite it all, not a soul has ever witnessed a single spell being cast in Aincrad. The people of this blade-bound world still whisper of a mythic dream never fulfilled.

• Kona Keep the water between 90–92°C and let it bloom for about 30 seconds before pouring. That's what brings out the full body and flavor. • Blue Mountain Water around 92°C. Let the first pour bloom for 30 seconds, then split the rest into two quick pours. Brings out that delicate, rich aroma beautifully. Medium-fine grind, high roast—that's the sweet spot. I'd love to serve these in my own cafe someday. — Message from an adventurer

The ruins of temples found throughout the second floor hint at a region that must once have been a vast, thriving city of worship. Yet these weathered vestiges carry a quieter implication: that even gods powerful enough to build such a civilization could not reach the hearts of the people who ascended to the sky.

The Kobold Lord's weapon was different from the one it had in the beta. Which means there's a good chance other monsters got a post-beta update as well. I should have seen this coming. Maybe if I had, Diavel would still be with us... Rumors of malicious players with bad intentions out in the game world have also been weighing on my mind. In this Death Game, I doubt these vicious monsters are our only enemies. — Message from an adventurer

The second floor is a vast stretch of sand and bare rock. Scholars have long disagreed whether this land has always appeared this way or was once fertile ground worn down by the merciless passage of time. One of these scholars put forward a different theory entirely: that this endless desolation is the result of a curse laid upon the land by some ultimate form of magic. How they arrived at that conclusion may forever remain a mystery, for no one has seen them since.

I thought I had adjusted after the first floor, but mapping out this wasteland has been something else entirely. The heat, the thirst—I know it's all just electrical signals from the NerveGear, but SAO has a way of making you forget you're in a game. The exhaustion is starting to show on everyone. I've been trying to keep a strong face as team leader, but I'm not sure how much longer I can hide it. We've made it this far because of each other, but when I think about how many floors are still ahead of us...it's hard not to lose hope. I can't let anyone die. I owe it to everyone waiting on our map data to keep going. — Message from an adventurer

Doesn't look like there's anything here. Nothing's been going right for us. Everything went so smoothly getting here, and now... I just want to go home. You must be worried sick about me, Mom. I'm so sorry. If I ever make it back, I'll apologize properly. I promise. Kotone — Message from an adventurer

An altar built at the foot of a great stone statue. A wide bridge leads up to it, though years of erosion has left it partially buried under fallen rubble from the surrounding cliffs. The altar sits along the path leading to a tower that local tradition holds once served as the site of sacred rites or divine trials. No definitive records survive to confirm the details, but evidence that this place was used for ceremonial purposes remains clear. Few people today know its history. Perched at a great height with an open, exposed structure, it has come to be known simply as a treacherous place best avoided.

The view from here makes all the hardship feel worth it—at least for the moment. We're still out in the wilds, so I can't let my guard down yet. The second floor is flush with wide open spaces, but the complex terrain has made mapping it all out a real challenge. I can't wait to get back to an inn and sleep in a proper bed. I'd love to hear Lara sing again, too. I'm always too conscious of everyone around me to really enjoy her music when I'm stuck in a tent. According to the beta testers, Dessel—the main settlement on the third floor—has an open plaza that would be the perfect venue for a live performance. I really hope Lara gets to perform there someday. — Message from an adventurer

After pushing through the cave for a while, this chamber opens up into a surprisingly bright space. Light pouring in through gaps in the ceiling provides more than enough visibility for exploring, so there's no need for a torch during the day. That said, you'd do well not to drop your guard. Ambushes from the shadows may not be a concern, but that doesn't mean danger is completely off the table. Water seeps through cracks in the cave walls and falls in small cascades along the stone. Caught in the daylight filtering from above, the mist from the falls gives the whole space a serene, mystical feel.

I saw someone scary nearby, so I'm leaving this as a marker. I'm starting to freak out... Would things have turned out differently if I hadn't lied about my age? Maybe. But I'm not sure things would change even if I could go home. If I did, I'd still just be... — Message from an adventurer

The Sanctuary: a forbidden place the elves kept hidden from the world. And yet, scattered throughout it are structures that appear to have been built by humans. That detail is hard to ignore. It raises the possibility that the legend of the Swordsman of Salvation may have come into being after human history was already well underway. And if that's true, then what is this world, really— The message carved into the ground ends here, the final words lost in a dark, spreading stain.

What a shame. Even being reduced to this sorry state isn't enough to get you out of this godforsaken world. — Message from an adventurer

This vast cavern is composed of a large chamber with open passages allowing access in the four cardinal directions. The ceiling is solid, so it should make for a fine shelter should the weather take a turn for the worst—though being caught outside a Safe Area means you can't afford to get too comfortable, even if you're just waiting out the rain. Multiple exits make access convenient, but that cuts both ways. With openings on all sides, an ambush could come from just about anywhere.

The yellow sand found scattered throughout the area around Deadwood Forest goes by another name: Flame Sand. Craftsmen prize it for making all manner of fire-based tools and equipment—and since gathering it means venturing into one of the most unforgiving corners of the frontier, supplying it falls squarely on the shoulders of adventurers. The survival rate for those who make the trip is grim enough that the sand's value hasn't shifted in centuries.

Asuna, I'm so sorry for what happened before. I'm just glad you're alive. It hasn't even been that long, but you've grown so much stronger. Honestly, it caught me off guard. I'm going to keep walking my own path, too. Now I'm not simply fighting for myself, but for someone else who's in this with me. I hope we cross paths again someday. — Message from an adventurer

Long ago, when this land was still part of the world below, the people worshipped a multitude of gods. But as the High Elf faith spread, the old believers quietly vanished, and the shrines and monuments that once bore those divine names crumbled into ruin. One folk legend even tells that the foul beasts wandering Aincrad today are what became of those forgotten gods—abandoned by their faithful and left to decay into something unrecognizable.

Tucked within the Deadwood Forest, a flooded wasteland stretches as far as the eye can see. There is nowhere else like it on the second floor, where water is notoriously scarce. Across this dry and punishing land, people, animals, and monsters alike have spent countless years searching, fighting over, and scheming for what might amount to mere drops. And yet, no one has ever tried to settle here—and for good reason. What shimmers before you is blighted waters thick with ash, sulfur, and the concentrated, silent resentment of every soul it has swallowed. Choosing between slaking a momentary thirst or keeping one's life is an easy choice for most everyone to make.

In the age when this land was still part of the world below, the god carved into this wall was a strict and all-seeing judge—one who showed no mercy to lawbreakers and spared none from punishment. But somewhere along the way, the people chose to close those eyes of justice with their own hands. Every soul dwelling on this floating world carries a share of that guilt.

Curious what was behind that door? Something big... Really big. That's all I can say. The second I opened it, something huge stepped on me! Oh, wait... I can hear really loud footsteps behind me. — Message from an adventurer

Kobolds: 52 Trolls: 12 Spines: 27 Elites: 14 This isn't enough. If you don't want anyone to die, you need to take down more—

These ruins were built to honor gods long since forgotten. The faces carved into them—whether the gods themselves or the priests who served them—hold secrets wholly lost to time. There is no way of unearthing the silent truths they harbor. And yet, their gentle smiles endure, unchanged across ages beyond counting. They offer a quiet and unexpected gift to adventurers who press on through the dangers of the area: a small moment of peace and serenity amid the soul-wearying toils of the journey.

Does this statue bearing a water jug speak to the dire thirst felt by all who live in this parched land? Or is it perhaps a symbol of some ancient king's power, one who commanded water freely across a world of rock and sand? Perhaps it signifies an even more ancient age—a time before this land ascended into the sky. Could it be that this entire region was once blanketed in lush greenery and water flowed freely from the earth?

December 7th — Scouting Party Meat Review! • Boar: Absolutely incredible! • Grizzly: Absolutely incredible! • Nepenthes: Absolutely incredible! • Mountain Spirit: Absolutely incredible! • Bao: Absolutely incredible! • Spider: Absolutely not — Message from an adventurer

In ages past, the humans of this harsh land, oppressed by heat and thirst, turned to the dwarves to learn the art of cave excavation. That knowledge gave humans shelter to live in, and in return they sent the dwarves the rare ores they unearthed along the way. The strong bond between these two peoples was severed the day Aincrad rose from the earth. This mine shaft has endured through the long years since—quiet and unchanged, as though it cannot quite bring itself to forget a better age.

I spent the whole day searching where the intel said to look, and now it's dark. All for nothing. After all that, the item is nowhere to be found. Was that info I bought fake? If it was, that man has some serious explaining to do. It's not just time I wasted. I'm getting every Cor of that information fee back, with interest! — Message from an adventurer

I miss real food. I don't care how cheap it is, eating nothing but stale, flavorless bread would wear anyone down. I knew the NerveGear could replicate taste, but I never thought I'd feel it hit my stomach like this. Obviously real food would be better, but this all feels and tastes a little too real for me. I can't believe packets of data posturing as food and flavor is actually making me this depressed. As soon as I've got what I came for, I'm heading straight back to town for a proper meal. — Message from an adventurer

Tucked deep behind winding paths and walls of rock, this place is said to have served as a vital stronghold in times of war. Its maze of passages and staircases were designed to slow any enemy advance and make a direct assault nearly impossible. Though no battles are fought here now, the layout still stirs something in people and curious adventurers wander in with surprising frequency. The footing is poor and visibility is low, though, and more than a few who've wandered in have found themselves unable to find their way back out.

Goal: Become the greatest blacksmith in all of Aincrad—good enough to forge weapons worthy of an epic boss fight! Notes on what it'll take: 1. Skill as a smith → Nothing gets off the ground without this integral step. 2. Materials → Can't make anything worth selling without them. Need to be able to gather them myself. 3. A shop → Aim to open on the third floor to start. Once we push further, might need to think about moving up to a higher floor... I'm going to forge weapons folks can wield with confidence. I swear it! — Message from an adventurer

All things have two faces: light and shadow, the sacred and the profane, life and death. The elves, who held trees in highest reverence, found the truth of this duality written in the grain of tree bark. The grooves were the face that receives—drawing in water, nurturing life, inviting harmony. The ridges were the face that repels—pushing away, sowing division, gnarling into conflict. In this Sanctuary, look to the grooves. Follow them where they run along the pillars, and they will lead you where you need to go. — Message from an adventurer

When faith in the old gods faded, the people of the second floor turned to face the world as it was. The brutal conditions—scorching heat, scarce water—naturally drew their focus inward, toward questions of how one ought to live. Over time, those questions crystallized into philosophy, and philosophy became something people held in higher regard than any prayer or incantation. The rise of philosophers, revered above even the clergy on the second floor, was no coincidence. It was the only outcome possible.

To any brave soul with the courage to come this far: If you wish to prove that courage, seek out the golden motif. The key to the gate lies in the golden crystal. I'm certain one who has made it all the way out here won't hesitate like I did. Don't be like me... sitting, waiting for what little life I have left to burn out.

This is a disaster. I should have recognized the trap immediately. Now my whole party is dead. I let the promise of loot blind me and lost everything—my friends, my inventory, my Cor. All my recovery items are gone, too. There's nothing left to do but avoid enemies and make a run for the nearest town. I want to go home. I'm not dying here. — Message from an adventurer

Guide Book Special Issue: Don't Let a Fight for Your Life Stop You From Eating Well K and A—top frontline fighters—give this culinary tip their seal of approval! One spoonful of sour cream transforms bland old black bread into a gourmand's delight. Read on to find even more easy recipes using simple ingredients! Don't worry, it's one of Argo's strategy guides. — Item dropped by an adventurer