In the real world, Kirito and Alice matched each other in kendo. Their shared fascination for swords was their second bond, the first being their love for each other.

Their matches often escalated to such intensity, it was as if they were in the Underworld again, slashing with swords, not bamboo sticks.

The physical limitations of their bodies in the real world were often forgotten in the heat of these bouts. Especially for Kirito, who was still in the recovery phase.

With a cheeky grin that was reflected on Alice's face too, Kirito ignored his trembling body and rushed forward for another attack.

Suddenly, his world tilted and he crashed onto the floor. His kendo sword fell from his grasp, a detail he didn't even notice.

Kirito's right hand clenched his shirt as he gasped for breath, his body betraying him in the midst of their intense match.

Alice promptly dropped her sword and rushed to his side, abandoning the match. Her eyes were filled with worry for her beloved partner.

"KIRITO!!" she screamed, her heart pounding in her chest. The sight of him struggling for breath struck her like a sharp blade.

She cradled him in her arms, brushing his hair back gently as she tried to suppress her panic. The room seemed colder, the silence heavier.

Alice called for medical help while holding Kirito's hand. Her voice was steady, but her heart was anything but. She prayed he would be okay.

Their friends rushed in, immediately taking charge of the situation.

Kirito was taken to the hospital for immediate medical attention. Alice watched as her lover was wheeled away, her hand tightly clutching the hilt of her dropped sword.

The following days were not easy for Alice. Her heartache was palpable, her worries growing each passing hour.

Despite the odds, Kirito managed to pull through. His spirited will couldn't be easily broken, after all. He held onto his life for the sake of those who cared for him.

His recovery, though slow, was steady. Kirito made a promise to himself - he would get back on his feet, for Alice.

And Alice, on her end, became his strength. She was there by his side, for every small victory, every fall, every pain, and every smile of his.

The incident had made them cherish each other even more. Their love seemed to grow stronger with each passing day, woven within their shared trials.

The day came when Kirito rose again, standing strong. His gaze was unwavering, his spirit indomitable. His recovery was a testament to his perseverance.

Alice heaved a sigh of relief. She gently embraced him, her tears soaking his black hair, her heart filled with gratitude.

"I'm glad you're okay, Kirito," she whispered, her voice choked back a smile, her heart beating with unfettered joy.

"I'm okay, Alice. I have you by my side, remember?" Kirito replied, offering her a tender smile.

They basked in the glow of their regained happiness, their hearts echoing their shared love and relief. Their bond had only grown stronger.

They returned to their regular lives. To their relief, Kirito had regained enough strength to spar again, but this time, they took care to keep their enthusiasm at bay.

The kendo matches resumed, with the same intensity but increased caution. Their bond transcended their swords and seeped into their lives, into their love for each other.

In the end, it wasn't just about the love for swords. It was about their love for each other. The blades were just an extension of their shared connection.

Their love story was one of resilience and commitment, etched in the blades they swung with such ardor. Love, after all, was the strongest sword they wielded.

And so, Kirito and Alice continued, bound not just by their love for swords, but also by their unbreakable bond, making them truly the 'Blades of Love'.