Kirito, the hero of Sword Art Online, experiences a prolonged period of inactivity during the War of Underworld arc. He finally awakens in Episode 22, “Awakening,” of Sword Art Online: Alicization – War of Underworld, marking a pivotal moment in the final conflict. This event reignites hope for the Human Empire and shifts the tide of the war.
The Long Sleep and the Stakes
Kirito’s condition leading up to his awakening is crucial to understanding the impact of this episode. During the battle against Administrator (Quinella), he suffers severe neurological damage, leaving him in a coma-like state within the Underworld. His mind remains inactive, and his physical body is essentially unresponsive. This prolonged absence places immense pressure on Asuna and the remaining defenders of the Human Empire, who are facing overwhelming odds against Gabriel Miller and his Dark Territory forces. Without Kirito’s unparalleled skills and strategic thinking, the survival of the Underworld hangs in the balance.
Episode 22: A Detailed Breakdown of “Awakening”
Episode 22 meticulously builds suspense leading up to Kirito’s eventual awakening. It showcases the relentless attacks of Gabriel and his American players, the bravery of the Integrated Knights and other defenders, and Asuna’s unwavering determination to protect Kirito and the Underworld. The episode highlights the growing desperation as the situation becomes increasingly dire.
The key moment arrives when Alice Synthesis Thirty makes a desperate plea to Kirito, transferring her memories and emotions directly into his Fluctlight. This powerful act, combined with the collective hopes and prayers of everyone fighting for the Human Empire, finally stirs something within Kirito’s dormant consciousness. We witness subtle signs of his awakening – a flicker of his eyes, a slight twitch of his hand – before the episode culminates in his dramatic return. He doesn’t immediately regain full control, but his presence is undeniable, radiating an aura of immense power.
The Aftermath of Kirito’s Awakening
Kirito’s awakening is more than just a symbolic victory. It has immediate practical consequences for the war. His presence inspires the remaining defenders, bolstering their morale and giving them renewed hope. His initial actions, even in his partially awakened state, demonstrate his incredible power and strategic brilliance. This monumental shift in the balance of power marks the turning point in the War of Underworld, setting the stage for the final confrontation against Gabriel Miller.
Impact on the Narrative
His return is not merely a plot device; it deepens the narrative by exploring themes of hope, perseverance, and the power of human connection. Asuna’s unwavering love and support for Kirito, coupled with Alice’s sacrifice and the collective will of the Human Empire, all contribute to his awakening. It reinforces the idea that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds, hope and unity can prevail.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Kirito’s Awakening
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Kirito’s awakening in Sword Art Online: Alicization – War of Underworld, along with detailed answers to enhance your understanding:
1. What specifically caused Kirito to fall into a coma in the first place?
Kirito’s coma was a direct result of the intense neurological damage he sustained during his battle with Administrator (Quinella). The system overload, coupled with the trauma of the battle, overloaded his Fluctlight, rendering him unresponsive.
2. How long was Kirito unconscious in the Underworld?
Kirito was unconscious for a significant amount of time within the Underworld, roughly equivalent to several months. This period is longer than many realize, highlighting the severity of his condition.
3. Was Asuna able to communicate with Kirito while he was unconscious?
While Asuna was able to physically be with Kirito and stay by his side thanks to the Stacia account, she was not able to directly communicate with his conscious mind. She could only express her love and hope that he would eventually awaken.
4. What role did Alice play in Kirito’s awakening?
Alice Synthesis Thirty played a crucial role in Kirito’s awakening. She transferred her memories and emotions directly into his Fluctlight, providing the necessary impetus to stir his dormant consciousness. This act of selflessness was pivotal in triggering his return.
5. Did Kirito immediately regain all of his memories and abilities upon waking?
No, Kirito did not immediately regain all of his memories and abilities. His awakening was gradual, and he initially struggled to fully grasp his surroundings and control his powers. It took time for him to fully recover.
6. What were Kirito’s first actions after regaining consciousness?
Kirito’s first actions were characterized by a sense of overwhelming power and protectiveness. He instinctively defended Asuna and the others, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to protecting those he cares about.
7. How did Kirito’s awakening impact the morale of the Human Empire’s forces?
Kirito’s awakening had a tremendous positive impact on the morale of the Human Empire’s forces. His presence instilled a sense of hope and renewed determination, inspiring them to fight harder against the Dark Territory forces.
8. How did Kirito’s return affect Gabriel Miller’s strategy?
Kirito’s return significantly disrupted Gabriel Miller’s strategy. He was forced to re-evaluate his approach and adapt to the new threat posed by Kirito’s presence. Gabriel recognized Kirito as a significant obstacle to his ultimate goals.
9. What was the significance of the Perfect Weapon Kirito wielded after awakening?
The Perfect Weapon, formed from the memories of all the swords Kirito had used throughout his adventures, symbolized his growth and experience. It was a physical manifestation of his strength and determination, perfectly suited to combat the formidable threats he faced.
10. Did Kirito’s awakening have any lasting effects on his personality or abilities?
While Kirito remained largely the same, his experience in the Underworld, including his prolonged coma and subsequent awakening, undoubtedly deepened his understanding of the human soul and strengthened his resolve to protect those he cares about. His abilities also seemed to have increased, making him an even more formidable warrior.
11. How does Kirito’s awakening compare to other heroic moments in the Sword Art Online series?
Kirito’s awakening in War of Underworld is arguably one of the most significant heroic moments in the entire Sword Art Online series. It represents a culmination of his experiences, his unwavering determination, and the power of human connection. It surpasses many of his previous feats in terms of emotional impact and narrative significance.
12. Can the War of Underworld arc be fully appreciated without understanding the significance of Kirito’s awakening?
Understanding the significance of Kirito’s awakening is essential to fully appreciating the War of Underworld arc. It is the turning point in the conflict, a moment of profound hope and inspiration that drives the narrative towards its ultimate conclusion. Without it, the emotional weight and thematic resonance of the story are significantly diminished.
In conclusion, Kirito’s awakening in Episode 22 of Sword Art Online: Alicization – War of Underworld is a pivotal event that dramatically alters the course of the war and reaffirms the core themes of the series. Understanding the context, the specific events of the episode, and the aftermath of his return is crucial for truly appreciating the epic scope and emotional depth of this remarkable arc.