Episode 3 — Sword Art Online

: Sachi, the guild member Kirito had grown closest to and promised to protect, dies in the trap. This event deeply traumatizes Kirito, leading to his solitary "solo player" lifestyle.

: Seeking companionship and hiding his true level as a "Beater," Kirito joins a small group of friends from a real-life computer club who form the Moonlit Black Cats guild. Sword Art Online Episode 3

The episode concludes with Kirito receiving a timed message from Sachi, which she had set to be delivered on Christmas Eve in case of her death. : Sachi, the guild member Kirito had grown

: On Christmas Eve, Kirito hunts a special boss, Nicholas the Renegade , hoping to obtain a legendary item that can revive the dead. He learns too late that the item only works if used within ten seconds of a player's death. The "Paper" (Sachi's Message) The episode concludes with Kirito receiving a timed

This episode is widely considered one of the most emotional in the series, detailing Kirito's brief time with the guild.

: Despite Kirito's hesitation, the guild enters a hidden room in a dungeon to find treasure. The room is an Anti-Crystal Area trap that summons high-level monsters. All guild members except Kirito are killed.

: In the message, Sachi reveals she knew Kirito was a Beater and was much stronger than he let on. She explains that she knew she wouldn't survive long and forgives him in advance for her death, urging him to continue living.