File: Nina29.png (418 KB, 750x750)

418 KB PNG

“No... no, this can't be... this can't be happening...”

Well, you can see that giving it a day hasn't calmed Nina down any. The night The Stranger unveiled her inside your mind, she panicked and retreated back into one of the strange rooms Stranger formed inside your mind and refused to come out, horribly confused as to what was going on.

The next day, you engaged in a meditation session with Sora in order to get back in contact with your inner demon, considering Stranger had gone quite silent after the incident, likely out of shame regarding his stupidity. What the hell did he expect to happen? For Nina to just be dropped into your head, told that Stranger brought her back to undeath from the brink of non-existence, and for her to just accept that in a moment? That idiot... he doesn't understand human nature. For all the emotions he's learned from being a part of you, he still can't wrap his head around empathy, can he?

You travel back into your mind and manage to coax Nina out into talking, but she's still a muttering, dismayed mess.

“Ryoji...” Nina cries. “I... I thought I saved you. What... what happened?”

“You did save me...” you sigh. “Everything's fine... Yesterday, Stranger told me how you sacrificed yourself, but he found that a piece of you was still alive in here, so he decided...”

“He decided what?” Nina cries, her eyes red as she looks at you in distress. “That I should be brought back? That... that I should be confined to this prison, trapped forever with this monster! Why... why is he still here?”

“I've been trying to tell you!” Stranger groans, leaning back in a wooden chair. “It's all good! Me and Ryoji are the best of pals now, right Ryoji?”

“No,” you reply. “But he's proven to be more help than in the past. There's more threats of Archdemons out there, and as much as I hate it... Stranger's on our side.”

File: Nina30.png (211 KB, 380x620)

211 KB PNG

“See?” Stranger replies, rising from the chair and making his way over to Nina. “Now, how about we settle our differences with a hu-”

“NO!” Nina screams in fear, rushing towards you. “Don't touch me, you monster! Ryoji, please... don't let him touch me...”

Nina rushes into your arms, and you find yourself embracing her with a hug. The feel of her skin as you hold her close... you can feel her. She's really there, it isn't some illusion. This really is Nina, and she's scared.

“Okay, you're pretty freaked out,” Stranger sighs. “But I just thought it would be cool if I could bring you back-”

“So you brought me back for your own sick amusement?” Nina cries, hugging into you tight as she glares hatefully at Stranger. “You brought me back to life because... because you though it was cool?”

“Well, no... you're still dead,” Stranger remarks, causing Nina to grimace. “But I revived your spirit! And... it wasn't just for me, you know. I figured Ryoji needed you... that it was wrong that he couldn't remember you, and that he could use you around in here.”

Nina bites her lip, confused, before turning her head to you. “You... need me, Ryoji?”

>Well, I never agreed to any of this. Stranger just did it.
>You can be the angel on my shoulder, Nina.
>I'd much rather have you around than Stranger.

>>939610
>>You can be the angel on my shoulder, Nina.
The other 2 options antagonize The Stranger too much.

>>939610
>You can be the angel on my shoulder, Nina.
Its a weird way to look at the bright side. But it is the truth.

What if Nina actually is Ryoji's archangel?

>>939610
>>Well, I never agreed to any of this. Stranger just did it.
No point in lying

>>939610
>>Well, I never agreed to any of this. Stranger just did it.

>>939610
>>Well, I never agreed to any of this. Stranger just did it.
"But I would like your assistance cause we're in deep shit."

>>939610
>Well, I never agreed to any of this. Stranger just did it.
>But I need an angel on my shoulder, Nina.

>>939610
>Well, I never agreed to any of this. Stranger just did it.
>You can be the angel on my shoulder, Nina

>Well, I never agreed to any of this. Stranger just did it.
>You can be the angel on my shoulder, Nina

>>939610
>>You can be the angel on my shoulder, Nina.

File: Nina26.jpg (125 KB, 880x1000)

125 KB JPG

>Well, I never agreed to any of this. Stranger just did it.
>You can be the angel on my shoulder, Nina.

"Of course he did..." Nina mutters. "I can't believe he would do something like this..."

"I'm having trouble processing it myself," you reply. "But... I could use you around, Nina."

"But... I don't want to share a space with this demon." Nina shakes her head. "I won't do it."

"Well, you're going to have to," Stranger crosses his arms. "To be honest, you're being pretty rude. You could be a little more grateful, considering what I've done for you."

"Robbed me of my right to death?!" Nina snaps. "That is inhumanly selfish... I hate you."

"Oh come on, you barely know me!" Stranger protests. "Okay, how about we settle this over a nice, romantic candlelit-"

"Shut up!" Nina screams at him. "Don't you ever speak to me!"

Nina shakes her head, as she turns hesitantly towards you. "Ryoji... I know you have no true memories of me... but I want you to know that I would do anything for you. If you need an angel on your shoulder... one to counteract this devil... then I would be more than happy to fill the role. If you need my help, then my help is what you will get, Ryoji. But for now... this is too much to take in. It's all so awful... excuse me, I need some time alone."

Stranger begins to protest, but Nina raises her hand and disappears into thin air, retreating to the back of your mind. Stranger shakes his head with a weary sigh. "I don't understand her at all... I figured I was doing the right thing," he remarks. "Well, she'll be in a foul mood for a while, then she'll come to her sense, right?"

>Maybe you should try apologising to her, Stranger.
>Give her some time, I'm sure you can come to an understanding.
>You're the dumbest freakin' demon ever, you know that?

>>939610

>>You can be the angel on my shoulder, Nina

And the stranger is the devil
But if you realy dont want to be here could kill you again

>>939658
>>You're the dumbest freakin' demon ever, you know that?

I refuse to wingman this relationship

>>939658
>Facepalm
>You're the dumbest freakin' demon ever, you know that?

>>939658

>Give her some time, I'm sure you can come to an understanding

Cant wait for the stranger to give nina a good mind fucking .
Would ryoji have to watch this happen and not be able to stop it?

>>939663
>being a no fun allowed

>>939658
>>Give her some time, I'm sure you can come to an understanding.
I do want them to play nice but I think he should give her time first.

>>939658
>>Maybe you should try apologising to her, Stranger.

The last thing we need is a stroke caused by these 2 guys

>>939658
>You're the dumbest freakin' demon ever, you know that?
Stranger confirmed worse than Reiji 'Hoverhands' Yasukawa with girls

>>939658
>Maybe you should try apologising to her, Stranger
>Give her some time, I'm sure you can come to an understanding
Maybe not right away, but he is going to have to learn why the dead might be angered.

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>939663
>>939665
>>939678
>You're the dumbest freakin' demon ever, you know that?

>>939669
>>939673
>>939680
>Give her some time, I'm sure you can come to an understanding

Rolling to break the tie

File: Sora04.png (637 KB, 984x1283)

637 KB PNG

>Give her some time, I'm sure you can come to an understanding

"I suppose... still, it's gonna be real tough to get her to not hate me."

"Yeah," you reply. "Usually I'd say something like 'be yourself and people will like you' but in your case... just try not to be an ass, and I'm sure she'll warm up to accepting you... maybe."

"And if she doesn't?"

"Hmm..." you reply. "Well then I guess it means you gave yourself a roommate who hates your guts, and there's nothing you can do about it to fix the mess you caused... feels like karma to me."

"Ha. Ha." Stranger replies, unamused. "Whatever, Ryoji. I'll just shut up until she's not angry anymore."

With that, you leave your mind, as you find yourself back in the school courtyard, sitting cross-legged opposite Sora.

"Did you find anything enlightening?" Sora asks.

"No, but now I have one hell of a headache," you reply.

Sora sighs. "Oh dear... you do have a lot of inner conflict, don't you?"

"To be more precise, people are conflicting in my head."

"Let's not blame all your struggles on the actions of the demon," Sora smiles. "After all, you're yet to comment on your own feelings regarding this Nina situation."

It's true... you haven't said much on the subject outside of noting it. Even when Saki pressed you for your feelings, you simply shrugged it off. To tell the truth, you had no idea what to think of it in the beginning.

"Am I supposed to make a comment?" you ask. "My stupid Archdemon did something stupid and revived a spirit inside of my head, making everything all the more crowded... and louder."

"I feel you're dodging the question," Sora replies. Damn him, his peaceful face always looks smug to you when he's giving advice. "The spirit in question is one of someone very important to you. Nina Nagata, after all you've lost with her... returned to you. Surely, you must have some emotions on the topic."

>Yeah, I'm very confused.
>Look, I still don't know what to think.
>I'm... happy.
>It's awful. I feel bad for her.

>>939703
>>It's awful. I feel bad for her.

>>939703
>>It's awful. I feel bad for her.

>>939703
>Yeah, I'm very confused.
On one hand, we could maybe learn more about what he had lost, through her. On the other, she is now trapped and had closure. And we did rob that from her inadvertantly.

>>939703
>Yeah, I'm very confused.

>>939703
>face always looks smug
We punch him in that smug mug!

>>939703
>>Yeah, I'm very confused.
but I think
>I'm... happy.
This is all good things, nothing bad can come from this, honest.

>>939703
>Yeah, I'm very confused.
>It's awful. I feel bad for her.
Even though these do sort of conflict, I think they still work together in that Ryoji doesn't know how to deal with it overall, but recognises how messed up it is for Nina at least.

>>939703
>>Yeah, I'm very confused.
Smug Sora is best Sora, perhaps we should spend more time with him.

>>939703
>It's awful. I feel bad for her.

File: Agent_Blue05.jpg (197 KB, 850x854)

197 KB JPG

>Yeah, I'm very confused.

"I would imagine so," Sora chuckles. "All of this is very strange and foreign, particularly to you."

"Why me?"

"Well, you are a transfer student," Sora reminds you. "You may have gone through so much more during your time here than the rest of us, but the Darkworld is still quite new to you. Many months later, and I still feel you are struggling to wrap your head around it."

"It's been over half a year," you remark. "Though I did spend three months trapped in my own head..."

"Indeed," Sora remarks. "You've been subject to a lot of strangeness in a short time. I'm beginning to feel that you're a magnet for it."

"Damn, I hope not," you sigh. "If this is the last strange thing that ever happens to me, I'll be very happy."

"Yo, Shida!"

The voice of one of the agents, Blue, rings out as you rise to your feet. "There you are... meditating?"

"Yeah, what of it?" you fire back. "Got a problem?"

"Didn't figure you the type," Blue shrugs. "I don't judge. I've got my own Yoga routine going on. You're just needed in the principal's office."

"What the hell does Agent White want now?" you ask.

"Not White," Blue explains. "The Principal. Wei Kobashi?"

"Oh..." you remark. Interesting... you've heard that Kosuke has had a few minor meetings with him as class president, but ever since the government rolled into the school, Wei's been pretty much completely holed up inside his office, not speaking a word to anyone... not that he was all that open with his appearances before. In fact, this'll be the first time you'll see him since before the Festival.

Blue leads you up towards the Principal's office... as if you don't know where it is. They just always have to keep a close eye on you, don't they? Still, you can't quite hate Agent Blue like you do some of his colleagues. After all, he seems like he's just a normal guy doing his job, and he's been pretty lax on the rules. Hell, a while back you were gathering fireworks with Kosuke and Rini, Blue caught you, and just moved on, pretending not to have seen anything. That was pretty cool of him.

You arrive in the Principal's office, swinging the door open to see Wei sitting alone at his desk, rustling through a stack of papers. "I would appreciate it if you were to knock on the door in the future, Ryoji.... regardless, good morning.I presume you're still up to your usual tricks?"

>You know I still hate you, right?
>Hey Wei, how's it hanging?
>Saki's doing fine, just so you know.
>Just tell me what you want, skip the "pleasantries".

>>939740
>>Hey Wei, how's it hanging?
He loves this shit right? Pretty sure he does.

>>939740
>>Saki's doing fine, just so you know.
Inb4 who?

>>939740
>>Saki's doing fine, just so you know.

>>939740
>Hey Wei, how's it hanging?
What's up my homie?

>>939740
>>Saki's doing fine, just so you know.
Bad Grandad

>>939740
>Hey Wei, how's it hanging?
I kind of want to see him thrown off his game by our collquialness. Though I don't fault anyone for going the Saki route.

I wonder if this is him worrying about us, in his own little way.

>>939740
>>Hey Wei, how's it hanging?

Calling for
>Hey Wei, how's it hanging?
Writing now

File: Wei01.jpg (141 KB, 850x985)

141 KB JPG

"You needn't take a sarcastic tone with me, Ryoji."

"Sarcastic?" you laugh. "I just wanted to know how my good buddy was doing. It's been a while, Wei."

"It's bad enough you stole away the only heir to the Kobashi name I have," Wei growls. "You needn't try to mock me. When I call for you, you shall show me the respect I deserve."

"I am showing you the respect you deserve."

"Very clever," Wei scowls. "Sit down."

"Gotta say Wei, I'm hurt," you reply. "Not so much as a single birthday card? For shame."

"I see you won't speak unless I engage in your ridiculous attempts at banter," Wei replies. "Very well. Do you intend on marrying my granddaughter?"

"Can't see why I wouldn't," you smirk.

"Good," Wei replies. "Do it, and scrub the Kobashi name from her. She's no longer deserving."

"Saki Shida sounds much nicer anyway," you joke. "But fine... I know you must have called me here for something important. What is it?"

"Ryoji, you are playing a dangerous game."

"Huh?"

Wei rises from his chair, his towering figure casting a shadow over you. "It won't take long for White to figure out who you are... figure out what you are. I've tried my best to keep it a secret, knowing that as foul a runt as you are, you're much more useful to this school when not confined within a prison cell. Even worse, it seems you've dug a hole for yourself."

"A hole?" you ask. "The hell are you talking about, gramps?"

Wei places his palm upon the table and shakes his head. "Your concerns that there lies another Archdemon on campus have been raised to Agent White, and what do you think he intends to do with that information?"

"I don't know..."

Wei sighs. "He's taking the only action that makes sense... a mandatory school-wide blood test. As they've learned from Yami, Archdemons may be able to hide their presence, but their blood is black. They plan to take the blood of every student, to work who is or isn't one of them... and that includes you... and Alice."

"Oh no..." you hear Nina's voice mutter in your head. Seems she was listening in.

"Crap..." you mutter.

"Indeed," Wei scowls. "You've doomed yourself to leaking your secret, and now yourself and Alice will be locked away. As much joy as seeing you in solitary confinement would please me, you're far too useful for that to happen... and Miss Maddox doesn't deserve to fall victim to your mistakes..."

>You're right... I'm sorry.
>You cared about Alice when you were in school together, right?
>Don't worry, I'll find a way to avoid it.

>>939786
>Then why dont i just say what you said, We're more useful outside of a prison cell.

>>939786
>>939788
>Then why dont i just say what you said, We're more useful outside of a prison cell.

>>939786
>You're right... I'm sorry.
>You cared about Alice when you were in school together, right?
Social links with the principal! Doooo iiiiiiit!

>>939786
>You're right... I'm sorry.
>You cared about Alice when you were in school together, right?

>>939786
>>You're right... I'm sorry.
>>You cared about Alice when you were in school together, right?
WeixAlice OTP.

>>939786
>You're right... I'm sorry.
>You cared about Alice when you were in school together, right?

File: Nina22.jpg (283 KB, 600x1000)

283 KB JPG

>You're right... I'm sorry.
>You cared about Alice when you were in school together, right?

"I don't see how that's your business," Wei mutters. "But... yes. It was such a long time ago... I was just a simple scholarly type-"

"-Nerd-"

"SCHOLARLY. I was full of hope and ambition, though I was awfully shy. And so I found myself more often than not daydreaming over... her. She was... an enigma. A free spirit, constantly in her own little world, but with every eccentric act, she held people's attention. I remember some of the more crass students began a betting pool on who could claim her first. I believe she managed to turn every single one of them down without realising. It was honestly quite amusing..."

Wei breaks from his fond reminiscing to stare at you. "Still, that was many, many years ago. She disappeared, and I moved on. I grew up, found myself a wife who I loved very much... and I never gave a second thought to the dreaming girl until she showed up again earlier this year... looking the exact same as she always did, from what I understand. I daren't see her in person... I'm not sure I could handle the memories, the impact of such a surreal moment. No... I would much rather not see this Alice again."

"Or maybe you don't want her to see you?" you suggest. "You don't want her to see how old you've gotten, while she's remained the same age."

"You are overstepping your boundaries, Ryoji."

"No, I meant it as a compliment," you smirk. "It's pretty sweet that you still care so much for that girl."

Wei shakes his head. "Say what you will, Ryoji... this meeting is over. I will speak to you again in the near future, no doubt."

You stand up from the chair, ready to leave, before asking another question. "You know, I don't think you've ever talked about your wife. I know Saki's always been curious about her grandma."

Wei pauses. "I loved her very much... that's all you ever need to know."

"Poor man..." Nina comments, as you step out of the office. "I always wondered what it was that made Wei so miserable..."

"I'm happy to see you're more talkative."

"Yes... well, it's interesting to see the world again... though seeing it through your eyes should take some getting used to. So... you and Saki Kobashi are very much in love, I take it?"

"Yeah..."

"It's very heartwarming, Ryoji. I always knew you could find the woman that... that you truly belonged with. I'm surprised to hear that it's your complete opposite, but... it's nice."

>I kinda wish you two could properly meet.
>It's not going to be... weird for you, is it?
>It's nice to see you're getting comfortable, Nina.

>>939812
>>It's not going to be... weird for you, is it?

>>939812
>>It's not going to be... weird for you, is it?
At nighttime if you know what I mean,

>>939812
>I kinda wish you two could properly meet.
>It's not going to be... weird for you, is it?
We can wish for something like this, and make sure she will be okay.

>>939812
>>I kinda wish you two could properly meet.
>>It's not going to be... weird for you, is it?

>>939812
>I kinda wish you two could properly meet.
>>It's not going to be... weird for you, is it?
Oh it's going to be very weird for her, and lewd too.

>>939812
>>I kinda wish you two could properly meet.
>>It's not going to be... weird for you, is it?

File: Nina18.jpg (57 KB, 650x850)

57 KB JPG

>I kinda wish you two could properly meet.
>It's not going to be... weird for you, is it?

"I... no," Nina replies. "I'm very happy for you, Ryoji, and if anything good can come from this, it's that I can see with my own eyes the happy life you've been able to make for yourself. Besides, I'm already a spirit living in your mind. I'm more than accustomed to weird... and yes, I too wish I could meet Saki. We never truly spoke while I was alive, and even then she only knew me in my emotionless husk. I do so wish I could have had the chance to speak to her as my true self."

"Yeah, I always regret not being able to speak to Saki."

"Shut up, demon. I'm having a pleasant conversation with Ryoji, I don't need you to ruin it."

"I was contributing!" Stranger protests. "Come on, you can sit with me on this nice couch and we can chat about all the things you miss about being alive!"

Nina remains silent as Stranger lets out a sigh. "I said something wrong, didn't I?"

"I hate you."

You shake your head as you press on from the Principal's office, soon being interrupted by a couple of text messages.

>From: Sak
>Hey Jellybean! How did the meditation go? I was just finishing up training with the others while Rei's recovering, but you can tell me all about it! Love you!

>From: Nanami
>Ahoy Ryoji! Did you know that if you neuter a cat, it's lifespan can expand by two years? Anyway, wanna have lunch? I'll be on the roof!

Nanami doesn't know how to start a conversation over text, does she? You guess she just feels unsure of what she's saying when the other person can't see her arm flailing and general dramatic movements, so she has to make some sort of weird statement to grab attention.

>Meet up with Saki.
>Have lunch with Nanami.
>Wander the school.
>Maybe I should start studying for those exams next week...

>>939869
>>Have lunch with Nanami.
Lets spend time with Nanami
Even if she steals jokes from Farmer-Chan

>>939869
>Have lunch with Nanami.
..... Jesus Nanami

>>939869
>Maybe I should start studying for those exams next week...
Let's show those nerds what's up. Also chance of seeing Kaiya and getting more prophecies if we go to the library.

>>939869
>Have lunch with Nanami.
We need to spend time with Saki at some point today. But its been a long time with no Nanami!

Also she should be thankful she didn't say that to Nariko. She would thing Nanami is wanting to get her babies snipped.

>>939869
>>Wander the school.
Lets see what random encounters can we trigger.

>>939869
>>Wander the school.
Screw studying and social links, time to explore. Give Nina that tour around the campus.

>>939869
>Have lunch with Nanami.
Then maybe we can wander on a full belly.

File: Nanami42.png (615 KB, 850x680)

615 KB PNG

>Have lunch with Nanami.

Well, Captain's orders. You make your way up onto the school roof, where you see Nanami looking proudly over the school grounds. Reminds you of the first time you ever met her. She turns around to you and smiles.

"Ahoy!" She exclaims as she waves, cheerful as ever. "You made it!"

You smile as you make your way over to Nanami, as she passes you a small box of rice and beef. "For my first mate!"

"Thanks," you smile. "You know Nanami, it's been a while since you and I have had some one-on-one time. Not since before you and Ken-"

"Got together!" Nanami yells with excitement.

"I see you're still giddy about it, weeks later."

Nanami laughs. "You're right! Ken said he loved me and everything! Oh, it's everything I could have ever dreamed of! In fact, I now declare that I shall perform a twirl of happiness!"

Nanami spins around with a big grin on her face, before the two of you sit down to eat your meal. "So, where is Ken anyway?" you ask. "I figured you'd be having lunch with him."

Nanami pauses, before biting her lip, her mood quickly shifting. Seems like someone was putting on a brave face. "I usually do... that box was something I made for him. Usually he makes the lunch, but this time I decided to pay him back... he, uhh... he cancelled today. I don't know why..."

"Are you worried?" you ask.

"A captain is always worried about her crew!" Nanami exclaims. "And... I'm always so worried about Ken. We... we visited his mother yesterday."

"That's right, Ken mentioned that. How did it go?"

Nanami sighs. "She... didn't like me. She was a very nice lady, but when I was listening in while I was out of the room... she told Ken that he could do better. That I was nice, but that I was... I was... too weird."

"When has that ever bothered you before?" you ask.

"It's different here!" Nanami pouts. "Ken stood up for me... but I can't help but think he was listening to her. Ken likes his mom, and if she thinks he can do better... Ryoji, all I care about is making other people laugh, making other people smile, but... am I really too weird?"

>You're not weird at all, Nanami.
>You're weird, but it's a good thing.
>Honestly... kinda.

>>939926
>>You're weird, but it's a good thing.

>>939926
>You're weird, but it's a good thing.
I would put the 3rd option first to go with this, but I feel that might come of too harsh.

>>939926
>You're weird, but it's a good thing.

>>939926
>You're weird, but it's a good thing.

>>939926
>Nanami, me and Alice have demons in our heads, we're all superpowered and we fight in an alternate world just about every week. I think acting is low on the weird scale in comparison.

>Besides, there's nothing wrong with trying to make people smile. If that's the case, why do we have movies?

>>939926
>>You're weird, but it's a good thing.

>>939926
>You're weird, but it's a good thing.
>There is nothing wrong with wanting to make people laugh or smile.

Besides in the sliding scale of weird characters we have. She is quite normal.

>>939926
>You're weird, but it's a good thing.

File: Nanami15.jpg (258 KB, 600x760)

258 KB JPG

>You're weird, but it's a good thing.

"You really think so?" Nanami asks. "I mean, when I was with Ken's mom, I said all the wrong things, and I'm pretty sure I upset her a few times."

"That's called being nervous," you reply. "Nanami, you're not even the weirdest person I know. Everyone's weird here... but you do it just to make people smile. And you do... whether you're dressed as a pirate, or just as yourself."

"As myself?" Nanami ponders. "I... I don't know. Regular Nanami's pretty boring..."

"She hasn't bored me yet," you smile, and Nanami smiles back.

"What a lovely girl... is she like your sister? Can you hug her on my behalf?"

You pull Nanami in close and give her a hug.

"You know I'm usually the one to hug first!" Nanami remarks.

"Yeah, but I decided to change it up," you reply.

You and Nanami continue to chat while eating your lunch, until the two of you stand up. It's then that Nanami catches a glimpse of someone in the school courtyard. "Oh, there's Ken! Ahoy, Ken!"

Nanami yells and waves, though Ken is too far away to hear her.

"Wait a minute... who's he with? Is that...?"

You look down to the spot where Ken is standing... as he appears to be talking to Nishi, the demon hunter. She must have used her abilities to sneak onto the school grounds... but why is Ken talking to her?

"Why do I smell a demon... but not a demon?"

"Because that clumsy blonde down there is a demon, but not a demon."

"I don't understand."

"I'll explain later."

"What... why...?" Nanami mutters, staring down. "Why would he cancel our lunch, then be... with another girl... he... he wouldn't, Ryoji. W-would he?"

"Of course not, Ken's not like that," you reply.

"Yeah..." Nanami mutters hesitantly, unsure if she should believe you.

While Ken chats to Nishi, the two seem ready to part ways, when Nishi trips and falls forward into Ken, pushing him back onto one of the benches as she rest atop him. Seeing this is too much for Nanami, who bursts into tears and runs of crying.

"Nanami, wait!" you call out, but she's already running away to the dorms. You shake your head, messaging Ken to let him know about the mess on his hands.

"Oh, how unfortunate... if this is a misunderstanding, your friend Ken should be more honest with Nanami."

"Oh please, I'm sure Ken has a damn good reason for not telling her."

"Well unlike you demon, I prefer it when nobody gets hurt."

Ken should probably clear things up with Nanami on his own, but if you feel he can't handle it...

>Help Ken talk to Nanami
>Meet with Saki
>Wander the school
>Start studying for the exams

>>939989
>>Help Ken talk to Nanami
Okay were focusing on this now

>>939989
>>Meet with Saki
Damn it Ken you are on your own this time

>>939989
>>Wander the school
Weren't we the ones that asked him to talk to her? Just send Nanami a text explaining that and leave the rest to Ken.

>>939989
>>Wander the school
Meh, they can handle it.

>>939989
>Help Ken talk to Nanami
Dammit Ken

>>939989
>Wander the school
Fucking hell. We can't be there all the time for Ken. They've got to be able to resolve this shit on their own, if they're going to have a healthy relationship. If we coddle them all the time, they'll never grow, and they'll never learn to trust one another.

>>939989
>Wander the school
If REALLY need be we can help patch things up later, for now lets see where we end up...

>>939989
>Meet with Saki
We can fly in as needed if necessary.

>>939989
>Meet with Saki
Ken is a big boy, he can fix his own problems.

>>939989
>Wander the school

File: Akuro05.jpg (87 KB, 460x580)

87 KB JPG

>Wander the school

You have to trust Ken that he'll be able to sort things out on his own. You have faith in him, those two love each-other, and what you're sure is just a misunderstanding isn't going to come between your friends for very long. Instead, you decide to wander about the school, wondering who you can bump into along the way. It's not long before you catch a glimpse of Raiden standing by one of the lockers while his sister the agent seems to be kneeling down, picking at the lock.

"Trying to steal something?" you ask.

Raiden shakes his head in shame. "No... this is Akemi's locker. She locked herself inside, and forgot her combination."

"It's really spooky in here!" the muffled voice of Akemi laughs. "Ooh, is that a spider? Hang on... no, it's my hand! Still, pretty creepy right?"

"You know I can just tear the door off, right?" Raiden remarks. "Even Ryoji can."

"Yeah, but I told you I can open it up in no time without breaking anything," Akuro fires back. "You know there's more answers to your problems than just shooting and punching, right? Oh well... I guess I can't expect my doofus little brother to understand."

"Older brother," Raiden clarifies.

"Suuuuuuuure," Akuro rolls her eyes. "Technically, you're older, but you still act like you're eight years old."

"Less backtalk, more lockpicking," Raiden mutters.

"Fine... and, there!"

You hear a click, as Akemi burst out of the locker, about to fall flat on her face until Akuro catches her. "Careful cutie, don't want to mess up that adorable face."

Akemi giggles. "You hear that, Raiden? Adorable!"

"Yeah, I heard her..." Raiden grumbles.

Akuro smirks. "Well, since I freed you without any help from my bro, how about we get some ice-cream together?"

"Alright!" Akemi laughs. "But Raiden can come too, right?"

"You know what? I'll pass," Raiden crosses his arms. "Have fun. Don't hurt her, Akuro."

"Yeah, I'm the Yoi sibling more likely to hurt someone," Akuro snarks, as she walks off with Akemi.

Raiden watches as they walk off, letting out a weary sigh.

>Something bothering you, Raiden?
>You don't get along with your sister much, do you?
>Wait, Raiden doesn't want to have fun and eat ice-cream? This is shocking, I say. Shocking.
>Yo, you can grab a bite to eat with me.

>>940071
>>Something bothering you, Raiden?
Akemi a best
Akuro a meh

>>940071
>>Wait, Raiden doesn't want to have fun and eat ice-cream? This is shocking, I say. Shocking.

>>940071
>>Wait, Raiden doesn't want to have fun and eat ice-cream? This is shocking, I say. Shocking.

>>940071
>Yo, you can grab a bite to eat with me.
Come on, bro, just like old times, ya feel me homie?

>>940071
>Wait, Raiden doesn't want to have fun and eat ice-cream? This is shocking, I say. Shocking.

>>940071
>Wait, Raiden doesn't want to have fun and eat ice-cream? This is shocking, I say. Shocking.

>>940071
>Wait, Raiden doesn't want to have fun and eat ice-cream? This is shocking, I say. Shocking.

>>940071
>Something bothering you, Raiden?
Hope that the current lead doesn't close the social link today.

File: Raiden.jpg (54 KB, 389x700)

54 KB JPG

>Wait, Raiden doesn't want to have fun and eat ice-cream? This is shocking, I say. Shocking.

"You don't have to mock me," Raiden sighs. "I've already eaten enough defeat in the last five minutes."

"Come on, Raiden. Lighten up," you reply. "I get that Akemi's pretty much your safety blanket, but if you don't spend some time away from her, how else are you going to make new friends?"

"After all your support, I consider you and Saki to be my friends," Raiden explains. "The rest of you, I don't care for. That includes my estranged sister. I have no interest in building up a rich circle of friends. All I've ever been interested in is killing demons."

"Sure," you reply. "We all know you're definitely not a big softie deep down."

"I am not soft," Raiden grunts. "Not a single part of me is so-OW!"

Raiden pulls his arm back after you pinch him. "What the hell was that for?"

"Felt pretty soft to me," you smirk. "Plus, you should really work on your girlish screams."

"My screams are not-" Raiden begins to protest, before taking a deep breath. "I see, you're getting underneath my skin. Well, it won't work. Akemi gets under my skin every day, and you will never be half as annoying as her. You can't harm me-OW! Stop that!"

"Definitely harmed you there," you shrug.

Raiden storms off, but you follow him. "So, what's your view on Akemi this week? Usually changes on a dime. Like her? Love her? Think she's an annoying runt?"

"She is an annoying runt," Raiden explains. "But she has still shown me nothing but kindness... and I've given up on shaking off her attempts at friendship. As for that... other thing you said... I love only one person. Maya."

File: Seishiro03.jpg (396 KB, 479x669)

396 KB JPG

You follow Raiden out into the courtyard, as you can almost see the rising steam coming from his head in the winter cold. As you do, you catch a glimpse of two other classmates standing by the bushes, seemingly having come back from town.

"That was a most satisfactory date," Satomi smiles, hugging into the arm of Seishiro.

"Yeah, it was a blast!" Seishiro laughs. "But you know I'd go all out for you, cutiebutt."

The two lean in for a kiss, when Seishiro catches the two of you passing by in the corner of his eye. In panic, he pushes Satomi into the bushes to hide her, then tries to assume a natural pose. "Sup, bros? You d-didn't see anything! I wasn't about to kiss a nerd, okay?"

"You're pathetic," Raiden glares at him.

Seishiro scoff. "Heh, that's rich coming from you. Can you start leaving the monkey alone now?"

"Excuse me?"

Seishiro shrugs. "Come on, you must have heard what everyone's been saying! You're trying to corrupt Akemi! You expect us to believe that an evil jackass like you is actually friends with the sweetest girl on the planet? Nah, we all know you're just going to hurt her and abandon her as petty revenge or something."

"I'm not."

"You totally are," Seishiro rolls his eyes. "Listen, nobody's forgotten about what you did, bro. And we all know you'd do it again in a heartbeat if you had the chance. The least you could do is not drag everyone's favourite classmate down with you."

Raiden glares at Seishiro, his fist clenched, before simply walking on, while Seishiro scrambles to pull Satomi out of the bushes.

>Don't listen to him. Seishiro's an idiot.
>He's got a point, you know.
>Would you do it again?

>>940142
>>Would you do it again?

>>940142
>>Would you do it again?
>>No
>>Then don;t worry about it

>>940142
>You know, if you gave everyone a chance, you wouldn't have to hear them talk to you like that.

Shit write-in, but I just wanted to bring up the idea, at least.

>>940142
>>Don't listen to him. Seishiro's an idiot.
>Help Satomi out of the bushes
Not cool Seishibro, watch how we embarrass you even further

>>940142
>Would you do it again?

>>940142
>Would you do it again?
Alright lets deal with this elephant in the room

>>940142
>>Would you do it again?
Seishibro pls stop being a right cunt.

File: Raiden02.png (166 KB, 698x289)

166 KB PNG

>Would you do it again?

"To you?" Raiden asks. "No, of course not."

"But to another demon?" you ask.

Raiden pauses. "Yes... I would. In fact, I intend to. I'm going to be honest with you, Ryoji. I have every intention of killing this Yami, and I'm disappointed you didn't do it yourself. I'm only going to allow for whatever information you need to be taken from him to be gathered, then I'm making my move."

"I suppose you hold a special grudge against this demon..." you mutter.

"Ryoji... he destroyed my home," Raiden replies. "I have nothing to go back too anymore... all I should do is move forward, and try to enact my vengeance."

There's a long pause between the two of you, before Raiden pipes up again. "He's right, you know."

"Never though I'd hear someone call Seishiro right..." you snark.

"But he is," Raiden protests. "Let's face it, Ryoji... I haven't changed. I'm the same person I was way back when I captured you and held a gun to your head. I'm and angry spirit of vengeance, that's all I am and all I'll ever be. I... I let someone else get close to me, allowed myself to care for her... but now I know that if I truly care about Akemi, I'd keep her far away from me. I don't want to drag her down to my level... no matter how much I... I... I should leave her be."

File: Akemi110.png (491 KB, 720x1047)

491 KB PNG

"There you guys are!" you hear Akemi exclaim as she rushes over to the two of you, carrying three cones that are mountainous in size. "I got extra ice-cream! One for Ryoji, one for Raiden!"

"I thought she'd only order one scoop..." Akuro sighs. "There goes today's salary... at least she insisted on carrying them all, the little cutie."

As Akemi moves to hand Raiden one of the cones she's struggling to balance, Raiden backs off and shakes his head. "I'm... fine. Excuse me."

Raiden walks away towards the dorms, as Akemi raises her eyebrow in confusion. "Raiden...?"

"He'll be fine," Akuro scoffs. "My brother's always this moody. Even when we were kids, and before he was crazy..."

"Well... here you are, Ryoji!" Akemi smiles, pondering on Raiden for a moment before cheering back up.

"Eh, you can have it," you reply. "I already had lunch."

"All three?" Akemi gazes in amazement at the towers of ice-cream, her eyes lighting up brightly. "Wow... this is the best day ever!"

Raiden's likely taking advantage of Akemi's easily distracted nature to slip out of her life as best he can, though something tells you he's going to have a much harder time with it than he thinks. You sigh, before checking the new message on your phone.

>From: Teach
>Hello, Ryoji. If you and Saki are available, I'm currently free to have a chat and a drink of tea.

Heh, you've been meaning to reconnect with Akihito for a while. You guys wanted to tear each-other's heads off while he was teaching you, but you've found yourself missing him. The new homeroom teacher is fine, though she is quite awkward, but you miss having the teacher that you could rebel against.

>Meet Akihito for tea
>Wander the school alone
>Hang out with Akemi and Akuro
>Start studying for the exams

>>940237
>Meet Akihito for tea

Shit, I feel like we reversed a bit in Raiden. I worry for Akemi.

>>940237
>>Meet Akihito for tea

Sounds like a plan.

>>940237
>>Meet Akihito for tea

>>940237
>>Meet Akihito for tea
T E A C H

>>940237
>Start studying for the exams
PANIC

>>940237
>Meet Akihito for tea
Time to meet our cool TEAcher to get a nice cup of tea.

>>940237
>Meet Akihito for tea

File: Miss_Yamano04.png (294 KB, 850x947)

294 KB PNG

>Meet Akihito for tea

This one's a no-brainer, really. You don't really have many opportunities to speak with Akihito, considering he's so busy with his counsellor work. You text Saki, and she joins you in a flash. She's always eager to meet with teachers, and Akihito is a personal favourite of hers... wait, didn't she mention once that she used to have a schoolgirl crush on him? Wait, are you getting jealous of Akihito of all people? Get it together, Ryoji...

"I was always under the impression you hated Akihito-sensei," Nina remarks.

"Well, I do. But we've grown to have some mutual respect for each-other," you explain.

"Huh?" Saki mumbles, walking hand-in-hand with you.

"Oh crap, I said that out loud, didn't I?" you sigh. "Sorry Sak, with a new voice in my head providing commentary, I need to get used to thinking those conversations all over again."

"So, did the meditation go well?" Saki hesitantly asks. "I mean, you were talking to Nina just now, right? That's good, right?"

"Yeah," you reply. "I think she's starting to get used to things in here... still can't stand The Stranger."

"I wouldn't either," Saki replies. "Umm... can you thank her for me? Wait... she can hear everything you hear, right? That's how it works with Stranger too... this is very confusing..."

"Yeah, she can hear you."

Saki nods. "Okay then... thank you, Nina. For saving Ryoji, and bringing him back home. Your sacrifice wasn't in vain."

"My word... she's lovely," Nina remarks. "Tell her that I think she's a wonderful person, and that you're lucky to have her, Ryoji."

"Nina, that's really mushy."

"Aww, she's saying mushy things about me?" Saki gasps, blushing. "Hooray!"

"Gag me with a spoon..."

You and Saki press on into Akihito's office, opening the door... then immediately realising you should have knocked. The sight of Akihito at his desk, passionately making out with your new homeroom teacher, Miss Yamano, is one you're not soon to forget.

"K-kids!" Yamano screams as she tries to cover herself in shame, despite being fully clothed. Akihito turns his back and coughs awkwardly as Yamano's face turns bright red.

"I didn't expect you to arrive this quickly..." Akihito coughs.

"O-oh please don't tell anyone!" Miss Yamano cries in fear. "I-I don't want to lose my job! I like it here! This... this was only the first time, I swear!"

>Wow teach, I didn't know you had it in you.
>For the right price, my lips are sealed...
>Don't worry, you have my word.
>Saki's the one you need to worry about.

>>940314
>Nina and Saki cuteness
ITS ALL WORTH IT
>Teach getting it on
ITS ALL DOUBLE WORTH IT
>Don't worry, you have my word.
>Saki's the one you need to worry about.

>>940314
>Wow teach, I didn't know you had it in you.
>Don't worry, you have my word.
>Saki's the one you need to worry about.

Some gentle teasing here while being a good guy.

>>940314
>Saki's the one you need to worry about.

>>940314
>Wow teach, I didn't know you had it in you.
>Don't worry, you have my word.
>Saki's the one you need to worry about.
It's been like what 2-3weeks? Akihito works fast

>>940314
>Manly, respectful nod. And maybe a thumbs up. No other words need be said.

>>940314
>>Wow teach, I didn't know you had it in you.
>Don't worry, you have my word.
>Saki's the one you need to worry about.

>>940314
>Wow teach, I didn't know you had it in you.
>Saki's the one you need to worry about.
ABSOLUTE MADMAN

>>940314
>>Wow teach, I didn't know you had it in you.
>>Saki's the one you need to worry about.
L-lewd.

File: Miss_Yamano08.png (305 KB, 850x1202)

305 KB PNG

>Wow teach, I didn't know you had it in you.
>Don't worry, you have my word.
>Saki's the one you need to worry about.

"Oh Saki, please!" Yamano begs, falling to her knees and pleading with the pint-sized head of class. "You know how much teaching means to me, and I do my best at my job, r-right? I... it was one act of passion, please don't report me!"

"B-but..." Saki hesitates. "The... the rules..."

Well, looks like Saki's malfunctioning.

"W-what the two of you did was very shocking... and I'm very disappointed in the both of you, but..." Saki continues. "Oh... darn it! You know I can't betray a sensei! Let alone two!"

"Oh, thank you, thank you!" Yamano cries, rising to her feet and embracing Saki with a hug, before leaping back in panic. "Ah, can't hug students! Rules, rul-"

"It's okay," you sigh. "Just go."

"R-right!" Yamano nods as she rushes off towards the door... before running back to plant a quick goodbye kiss on Akihito's lips. "See you for dinner later, right?"

"Of course," Akihito smiles, before Yamano rushes off again.

File: Akihito.jpg (148 KB, 969x1200)

148 KB JPG

As the door clicks closed behind you, you stare in wonder at Akihito. "Before you say anything else, Ryoji, I'm surprised myself. I never expected myself to forgo the school rules for another staff member. Perhaps seeing my two best friends do it inspired something in me."

"Heh, a bunch of the guys in class have been lusting after Yamano," You remark. "They'll be pissed if they find out. Hirashi too."

"Well, I think Miss Hirashi is a bit too childish for me," Akihito coughs, though his eyes seem to dart around the room. "Regardless, I've agreed to have dinner with Miss Yamano, because I've begun to see the beginnings of something there."

"Well, congratulations Sensei!" Saki smiles. "You know, there was always a cruel rumour that you'd never had a girlfriend before. I tried my best to dispel them, but-"

"Those weren't rumours," Akihito explains. "That is true. My dinner tonight with Yamano will be my first date... well, ever."

"Huh..." you mutter. "So I had you beat by a pretty wide margin."

"I didn't realise it was a competition, Ryoji..." Akihito tilts his head. "Still... this isn't about me. I wanted to catch up with my two favourite students. How are you both?"

"Pretty good, we're getting married in the Spring," you joke.

"Ryojiiiii!" Saki squeals. "We won't be getting married until at least graduation, sensei!"

"Did he just call you his favourite student?" Nina asks in shock.

"I hear Kosuke and Rini couldn't wait," Akihito says as he takes a seat and begins to pour some tea. "Can't say I'm surprised with those two. They have a sort of controlled impulsiveness, don't they? Making rash decisions, yet somehow with perfect thought put into them... from their point of view at least."

"Yeah, Rini and Kosuke are pretty crazy sometimes," you laugh. "But that's why we love them."

"I don't recall Saki being a big fan of theirs for the longest time."

Saki laughs. "Yeah... I really wasn't. And not long ago, I was maid of honour at their wedding... funny how times change. B-but that doesn't mean I'll let them off for delinquency, sensei! The delinquents may be my best friends and the love of my life, but when they get up to no good, I'm always going to give them a piece of my mind!"

Akihito chuckles. "I wouldn't expect anything else from you. How about you, Ryoji?"

>Tell him about Nina
>Tell him about the Archangels
>Tell him about visiting your parents
>Tell him about your studies, or lack thereof

>>940440
>Tell him about visiting your parents

>>940440
>>Tell him about Nina
>>Tell him about the Archangels
>>Tell him about visiting your parents
>>Tell him about your studies, or lack thereof
TELL TEACH ALL OUR SECRETS

>>940440
>>Tell him about visiting your parents

>>940440
>Tell him about Nina
>Tell him about the Archangels
>Tell him about visiting your parents
>Tell him about your studies, or lack thereof

>>940440
>Tell him about Nina
>Tell him about the Archangels
>Tell him about visiting your parents
>Tell him about your studies, or lack thereof

Its good to catch up.

File: Io13.jpg (130 KB, 850x1275)

130 KB JPG

>Tell him about Nina
>Tell him about the Archangels
>Tell him about visiting your parents
>Tell him about your studies, or lack thereof

Before you know it, you're rattling off everything Akihito didn't know about, from the recent addition of Nina to your current situation, to the battle with Yami and the potential existence of these Archangels, your visit to your parents house and everything that came with it (though you found yourself being stopped by Saki before you started talking about the night you spent together). You even bring up the fact that you haven't touched a single book yet in preparation for your exam studies, which disappoints Akihito. "Perhaps I should ask Yamano to assign you a tutor like I did last semester?"

Before you know it, a whole hour has passed and you're still rambling on to a very attentive Akihito.

"Hmm... it seems you've been through a lot in just the past month alone," Akihito chuckles. "I can't wait to see what other scrapes you find yourself in by Christmas."

"Yeah... things have gotten a lot crazier these days," you reply. "I kinda miss the times when all I had to worry about outside of the Darkworld was skipping classes."

"Or that time you had a barbecue in the courtyard," Akihito adds.

"Yeah, like the... wait..." you begin. "You... you knew?"

"B-but, I didn't even report it!" Saki gasps.

"Of course I knew," Akihito replies. "You couldn't have made it look more obvious. Isamu was still eating his burger!"

"Damn it Isamu..." you mutter. "So wait... you knew we were throwing a barbecue? Why didn't you shut it down?"

"It looked like you were having fun, and I wasn't going to deprive my kids of fun."

"Your kids?" you mutter. "We're your kids, huh?"

Akihito smiles and nods. "Of course you are... and I'm proud of each and every one of you... Saki, a-are you crying?"

"It's very touching!" Saki sniffles. "Excuse me for being touched!"

You hear a knock on the door, as Akihito checks the time. "Ah, that'd be my next appointment. Still, it was a pleasure. I hope to do this again soon. Come on inside!"

As you and Saki stands to leave, the door swings open as Io Tanaka from Class 1 enters the room. Noticing you, she speaks. "Oh hey, it's you!"

"Yeah, it's me."

"Yep, definitely you!" Io laughs. "Hey... can you do me a favour?"

"What's that?"

"Can you... go a little easier on Kaz? I know sometimes he's just this adorable doofus, but he's really a good guy. I swear. He's on your side."

>Sure, I'll go a little easier on him.
>What? But he's my kouhai!
>Nah. In fact, I should be even harsher.

>>940557
>What? But he's my kouhai!

>>940557
>What? But he's my kouhai!
>Sure, I'll go a little easier on him.

Dude has it rough. And he has started to soften up.

>>940557
>>What? But he's my kouhai!

>>940557
>What? But he's my kouhai! You wouldn't make a senpai give up his kouhai, would you?

>>940557
>>What? But he's my kouhai!
>Sometimes you need someone to dislike to keep you sane, kiddo.

File: Tekina06.jpg (316 KB, 600x800)

316 KB JPG

>What? But he's my kouhai!

"You know calling him that annoys him, right?" Io sighs. "It's very easy to get under Kaz's skin... it's why he's so cute to tease, but at the same time, when you try to bug him, he can get a little hard to work with. I just... figured I should tell you, considering you two aren't arguing over that rock anymore. He can be a little soft and squishy, so you need a gentle touch if you seriously want to team-up with him."

You nod. "Fair point... but you can't make me drop teasing. I get through life on teasing."

Io gasps. "I would never deny someone the right to tease! As an expert teaser, I find the very idea deplorable! Still... you need to give a Kaz a break from it sometimes. Make designated teasing times or something."

"Whatever," you shrug, as you move on.

"You're still very into teasing people, Ryoji? I certainly hope you don't bother Saki with your constant teasing."

"Teasing brought us together!" You protests. "Saki loves it!"

"Hmm... that's very good for you. I never loved it."

As you step out into the hallway, your phone goes off. Opening it up, you check the message within.

>From: Rei
>PLEASE COME HERE. QUICK. PLEASE. I'M SCARED.

Well, you can't ignore that... sounds important. You and Saki rush to the nurse's office, where you find Rei lying in the bed, with tears streaming down her eyes, her hand being clutched by a weeping Akira.

"Rei..." Akira cries. "We... we'll get through this together... all of us. I... I can tell Isamu when he comes back if you can't..."

Oh no... this can't be good at all...

"What's wrong?" you ask, desperate for information.

"Ryoji..." Rei sobs, trying as hard as she can to calm herself. "I... tell him, n-nurse..."

You turn your head to Tekina who is holding her clipboard with a forlorn look on her face. "Rei's worsening condition has begun to catch up with her... as it stands, she is in no condition to engage in combat and..."

Tekina pauses for a moment, having to sniffle and wipe a tear from her own eye. She's taking this really badly too... this news is about to get a whole lot worse, isn't it?

"And... Rei's muscles continue to degenerate and lose strength at a rapid rate. Soon, her organs will begin failing as well, culminating in a complete shut-down of all motor functions, followed by... by death. As it stands, we can estimate that Rei won't make it to Christmas."

Until... Christmas?! Rei... she's only got a month left? No... no that can't be right...

>It's okay, Rei. There's a way to cure this, I know it.
>No, you're wrong. Run another test, dammit! That can't be right!
>Say nothing, just comfort Rei.

>>940664
>>No, you're wrong. Run another test, dammit! That can't be right!
NO FUCK YOU BOOKER

>>940664
>No, you're wrong. Run another test, dammit! That can't be right!
BOOKER DONT DO THIS

>>940664
>Say nothing, just comfort Rei.
Poor Isamu, he let Rei catch her own death

>>940664
>Run another test!

That doesn't even make sense!

>>940664
>It's okay,Rei. There's a way to cure this, I know it.
DON'T GIVE UP HOPE GUYS, WE CAN STILL SAVE HER.

>>940664
>Say nothing, just comfort Rei.
AAAAAA

File: Rei06.png (533 KB, 600x918)

533 KB PNG

>No, you're wrong. Run another test, dammit! That can't be right!

"I... I'm sorry," Tekina cries. "I've ran every possible test I can, and... I'm sorry."

"No, dammit!" you yell. "It's Rei! She's one of the toughest people I know! She... she can't be dying just like that! To hell with your tests! To hell with you!"

In your anger, you pick up an empty beaker and throw it at the wall shattering it.

"Ryoji... please calm down..." Saki cries.

"Yes, Ryoji... there's no use in being angry."

"The hell there's not! This is a load of crap! Get mad! Smash something else! We're not losing Rei!"

"Ryoji... please..." Rei groans in pain, as the tears begin to form in your eyes. "I'm happy you're smashing things... I would be too if I had the strength..."

"Rei..." you mutter. "This can't be happening. It's not true..."

"That's what I've been telling myself..." Rei replies. "But now... what I'm worried about is how to break it to Isamu. He went into town an hour ago and he doesn't know the news... he should be back any minute..."

As if operating on some sick and twisted cue, Isamu comes walking in through the door, as small stuffed animal in one hand and a plastic tiara in the other.

"Oh boy..." Rei takes a deep breath. "If... If I'm going to tell him, I want to be standing on my own strength when I do..."

And so, with the help of a walking stick, Rei stiffly rises from her bed. She doesn't look like herself at all, she's pale and thing and malnourished looking... a truly sad sight.

"Ah, glorious day!" Isamu exclaims. "I see that the lovely Goddess that is Miss Arisato is already back on her feet, barring a little assistance! Ha, I told you that you couldn't be kept down for long! The strength of Miss Arisato is only matched by the great hero, Isamu Iori!"

"Isamu..."

"Ah, I come bearing gifts. One is an adorable hedgehog companion, picked out by my best friend Akemi Ibushi, in order for you to use as a fluffy bedfellow-"

"-Isamu, please, listen-"

"-And a gift of my own, purchased from the same child's section in the store as the hedgehog, but a fabulous gift nonetheless, is this tiara, suited only for my favourite princess, to be worn in celebration of her inevitable rise to full strength-"

"-Isamu, I'm dying. Sooner than I thought."

File: Isamu_and_Rei09.jpg (666 KB, 825x1275)

666 KB JPG

You could hear a pin drop in the room for the next minute. Just Isamu staring, wide-eyed and mouth agape, while Rei sobs, before trying to clarify. "Tekina ran some more tests, and... and I won't be making it to Christmas. Isamu... I'm sorry, I should have... I should have listened, I should have slowed down..."

"H-have no fear, fairest maiden!" Isamu exclaims, puffing his chest out and putting his hands on his hips as he tries to speak in his usual verbose manner, but his voice simply cracks. "Y-you'll never f-fall to the reaper as long as... as long as you are protected by the mighty... mighty hero, I-Isamu-"

"Isamu..." Rei interrupts, sobbing. "Please, just... for once, shut your mouth... and hold me."

"Miss Arisato..." Isamu mutters, dropping the voice, before pulling Rei in tight, wrapping his arms around her in the most desperate and loving embrace, holding her with no intention of ever letting go. He begins to cry, and Rei simply sobs more into his chest. Rei abandons the walking stick, tossing it aside to clutch tightly to Isamu's back, leaning on him in order to stay on her feet.

"It's okay, Miss Arisato..." a tearful Isamu whispers as he stroked her hair gently. "We... we'll find a way, together... I promise... I won't ever fail you..."

Isamu leads Rei back into her hospital bed, gently beginning to tuck her in while holding her free hand.

"Rei... whatever happens..." Akira mutters. "We're all here for you. Me... Isamu... and all of your friends. We'll be by your side... always..."

"You were already by my side..." Rei sobs. "You were always there to lend me advice... advice I never took... and now..."

"This isn't the time to be blaming yourself," Saki re-assured her. "Make yourself comfortable, Rei. We're with you through every step of this... and we won't stop trying to help you."

"Well, Kobashi..." Rei gives a faint, saddened smile. "I guess you really were the better one... I could never keep up."

"Rei..." Saki cries.

"I'm afraid I'll have to ask some of you to leave for now," Tekina sighs. "I want to run more tests in the hope that we can... find some sort of cure, and Rei can be crowded while I do them. One of you can stay, the rest will have to clear the room for the moment."

You, Saki and Akira exit the room, as Isamu stays by Rei's side. As you do, Akira remains by the door, crying her heart out.

>We're here for you too, just so you know.
>It's okay, we'll find a way to save her.
>Don't cry. You need to be strong for Rei.

>>940860
>It's okay, we'll find a way to save her.
>inb4 it's the archdemon running around that's killing her

>>940860
>>Im going to find a way to save her
>>Stranger what do you know about demi-demons

>>940860
>>It's okay, we'll find a way to save her.
>Stranger, what do you now about demi-demons?

>>940860
>It's okay, we'll find a way to save her.
I know that in-universe this is pretty sad and dramatic but does anyone even thinks that, barring some stupid decisions, Rei isn't going to die.

>>940860
>We're here for you too, just so you know.

>>940860
>We're here for you too, just so you know.
>It's okay, we'll find a way to save her.
>Stranger, what do you now about demi-demons?

>>940860
>>Im going to find a way to save her
>>Stranger what do you know about demi-demons

>>940860
>We're here for you too, just so you know.
>It's okay, we'll find a way to save her.
>Stranger, what do you now about demi-demons?

I guess that book Akio found will help out a bit.

>PARAGON INTERRUPT

>Talk the Stranger, Immediately go see those 'allied' demons. They might be able to research a way to fix this magically.

Also this legit does not make sense. There's gotta be something iffy here. You don't just deteriorate due to muscle overstating. You can get crippled by it, sure, and it can lead to death, but total organ failure? No. Either she's got some kinda ultra rare disease, or this is being inflicted on her. We need to think outside the box.

>>940907
Rei's been dying from her DemiDemon Blessing since before Ryoji ever met her.
At first everyone thought it was a disease caused by the Darkworld. then it was revealed to be the side effect of her Blessing that allows her to have super speed
It has been pointed out to Ryoji the whole time that over exertion makes her condition get worse rapidly

File: Nina07.png (410 KB, 752x1034)

410 KB PNG

>It's okay, we'll find a way to save her.
>Stranger, what do you now about demi-demons?

"Quite a lot. Let's see... where to start... okay, to sum up, a demidemon is the spawn of two Archdemon. It's not as powerful as an original, Elder One created demon, but it has a few benefits that even I don't. For one, they start out with physical bodies, whereas we Archdemons have to possess a vessel in order to have some physical form. Furthermore, Demidemons can grant powers without having to possess anyone, but those powers quickly turn against the user if they're abused, as in the case of Rei there. But I don't know how to remove the effects of a demidemons blessing..."

"Umm... I know," Nina speaks up.

"You do?"

"Yes... I had an Archdemon myself once, remember? Oh... I suppose you don't, sorry... well, I know how we might be able to cure Rei. If... If we were to kill the demidemon that blessed her in her presence, she can take energy from the corpse in order to regain her full strength. She would keep the powers, but feel no more ill effects."

"But that's an impossible task..." Stranger explains. "For one, that demidemon is running around somewhere in the Darkworld, which if you haven't noticed, is a pretty big place. Infinitely larger than earth. We don't even know what demidemon we'd be looking for!"

"Can't you try to gather based on her powers?" you ask. "Every demon's gifts are unique, right?"

"Yeah, we could... but what demon grants the ability of speed?"

"Hermes."

"Huh?"

"A demidemon named Hermes... my Arch mentioned it once... a demidemon that granted tremendous speed as a blessing."

File: Nina08.jpg (549 KB, 850x1103)

549 KB JPG

"Yes... yes, you're right! Hermes! And I know that Hermes is a child of an Archdemon named The Conqueror! You know... with that information, we may be able to find them after all! But managing to kill that demidemon within the space of a month, while also having Rei with us in order to absorb the energy... it's gonna be tough."

"But we have to try," you nod, determined, before turning back to Akira. "Don't give up hope yet, Akira. Nina and Stranger know of a way we could be able to cure her."

"You... you do?" Akira begins to smile. "Then... then I'll stop at nothing. I'm not giving up on Rei, not after all we've been through! No... she's going to live. I'm her defender, and I'm not going to let her down!"

After explaining the plan to Akira, you make your way back to the dorms as it begins to get dark. With some help from Reiji, and perhaps from that other strange tome Akio found, you'll be able to find the location of that demidemon, and with some luck, be able to save Rei before it's too late.

"I hope we'll be able to do all of this in time..." Nina mutters. "Stranger knows the location, but finding a way to get there could set us back..."

"Don't worry, we've got plenty of sources of information," Stranger explains. "We can do this."

>Agreed. We're not losing Rei.
>I hope so...
>You know, you two make a pretty great team.

>>941003
>>Agreed. We're not losing Rei.
>>Were going to do this!

>>941003
>>Agreed. We're not losing Rei.

>>941003
>Agreed. We're not losing Rei.

>>941003
>Agreed. We're not losing Rei.

>>941003
>>You know, you two make a pretty great team.
This is the appropriate time for this.

>You know, you two make a pretty great team.

>>941092
>>941062
How can two people exist with this shit ship

>>941003
>>Agreed. We're not losing Rei.

File: Bullying.png (2.11 MB, 1190x1684)

2.11 MB PNG

>>941103
How can you look at them and say that? Their first night will be wonderful, pic related.

>>941117
L-lewd.

>>941117
Because Stranger ripped Nina from the embrace of death for no reason other than for a laugh, not to mention the fact Nina just straight up doesn't like him.

>>941129
She's just tsundere bro, he'll fug the dere into her eventually.

>>941132
If you think he just means Tsundere you're gonna have to deal with a lot of harassment cases.

File: Spoiler Image (138 KB, 975x1500)

138 KB JPG

>>941117
>The Stranger trying to catch himself Waifu

>>941140
Nahhh it's just like TsukixKiriko she's totally into him.

File: Nina19.jpg (1.05 MB, 1024x1280)

1.05 MB JPG

>Agreed. We're not losing Rei.

"Agreed," Stranger replies. "I may not be the nicest god around, but your friends are my friends. Rei's important to us, and I'm not going to let her down."

"I don't exactly know Rei," Nina admits. "But I could never just stand by and let someone die!"

"You've got a real good heart, you know that?"

"You compliments mean nothing to me demon... but thank you. You know Ryoji... I think I'm okay with this."

With a smile, and determination for the future, you make your way to your dormroom... only to shut it immediately after.

"Gah! Ryoji, did you forget how to knock?" Ken exclaims.

"Sorry guys..." you call out through the door. "So, I take it you guys made up?"

"It was a misunderstanding!" Nanami calls out. "He was just asking about Archangels!"

"But I'm still sorry for not being honest with Nanami regardless, and I promise from now on I'll-"

"Okay, you don't have to relay the entire talk you had!" You laugh. "Just enjoy yourselves!"

Your chuckling is interrupted by the sound of knocking on the door of the dormitory. You decide to answer it, only to be greeted by a face you didn't expect.

"Wei?" you ask. "But what are you doing outside of your mystical cave of paperwork?"

"The blood tests are being run tomorrow," Wei explains. "But you won't be there for them. Dodging them will only raise suspicion, which is why I'm sending you and Alice on a mission together. It won't save you from being tested, but it will hold off your testing for long enough that we can catch the real hidden Archdemon, and give more time for them to see your worth, and not see you and Alice as liabilities who aren't worth the risk."

"But I'm kinda busy," you explain. "I'm already planning a mission in other to save my friend-"

"This will only take a day," Wei explains. "You can afford a day, can't you?"

"Fine..." you sigh. "So I just take Alice on a day trip, that we spend pretending to do this fake mission you set for us."

"No, Ryoji." Wei stares at you with a grim look in his eyes. "I will not be made of a liar of. The mission I'm sending the two of you on is very, very real indeed."

... That doesn't sound comforting.

END OF EPISODE 25

>>941169
WEI BEST BOI

>>941169
HAHA THAT ISNT FUCKING OMINOUS WEI

File: Isamu_and_Rei67.jpg (236 KB, 650x650)

236 KB JPG

>Ending Theme
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=if5Ehx9hJis

>Archive
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Dark%20Gate%20Academy

>Twitter
https://twitter.com/bookerman32

Thanks for playing! Next thread will be up Saturday! Follow the Twitter for any updates!

Also, holy crap we just hit 50 threads. Gotta say, it's been a blast so far. You guys are awesome, I love you all, and I hope you all enjoyed this thread as much as I did! Here's to the next 50!

>Discord
https://discord.gg/yz7sDra

>Player Question
Which are some of your favourite moments from these past 50 threads?

>>941191
my favourite moment is when you DONT KILL YOU REI YOU FUCK

>>941191
Thanks for running and congratulationson the 50 thread achievment
>>Player Question
Settan battle.
Rescuing Ryoji
Ryoji's dreamworld
Kaz intervention.

>>941198
She's dead jim. Might as well put the candle in the tin can while we still can.

>>941191
Thanks for running Booker, Nina was surprisingly helpful surprisingly fast.

>>941191
Thanks for Running Booker
I have enjoyed the ride, Here's hoping the next 50 are just as good as the last 50

PQ:
Thats a hard one hmmm
>Saki and Ryoji's first Kiss
>When Saki stopped Ryoji from leaving the school
>The Entire Festival Episode
>Getting Stabbed by Alice, leading to the events of DGA: Civil War
>Meeting Ryoji's Parents
>Truth or Dare during the Camping Episode
>Watching the fire works with Saki after the local festival

>>941191
The festival week was fun all around.

>>941191
PQ:
"Romancing" Saki
First getting to know everyone
Early waifu wars and the pretty chill reactions of everyone when Saki won.
The class president episode
Black blood reveal and everything that came from that.
DGA: Civil War

>>941191
Everything with Yamato.
Nina death.
Kaiya.
Cool gramps Wei.
And also Gado's past.

File: Tekina08.jpg (129 KB, 552x900)

129 KB JPG

>Bonus Scene

"Mooooping the floors, gonna mop some of them floors..."

The song Takeshi wrote for himself while taking care of his custodial duties may have needed work, but it kept him entertained for the time being. He's finally been getting the hang of this whole janitor thing. It's much less taxing on his mind than teaching, the students still visit him often to help out, he doesn't fall nearly as often as he did before, and it gives him any excuse to visit Tekina's office during the day, considering her experiments leave the room in a mess at any given moment. Also, that third point may not be remotely true, as the numerous bruises on his arms can attest, but the final point is more than enough to keep him happy. In fact, he's moping just outside Tekina's office right now, ready to take a little trip in...

Before Takeshi finishes his mopping however, the door to the office opens up and Tekina steps out herself, likely hoping to go out and grab supplies, or get some fresh air... or lean against the door by the wall and start crying like she's doing now... that's not good. Takeshi rushes to be by her side, though quickly finds himself slipping on the wet floor and falling face first onto the floor.

"Takeshi?" Tekina raises an eyebrow, as he quickly scrambles to his feet. "Are you okay?"

"Absolutely f-fine!" Takeshi chuckles nervously. "I'm much more worried about yo-"

"Takeshi, your nose is bleeding!"

"W-what?!" Takeshi exclaims, before throwing his head back.

"No, you're supposed to lean forward," Tekina explains. "And pinch the bridge of your nose."

"Oh..." Takeshi mutters, obliging. "T-thank, Tekina... you've always been much smarter than me..."

Tekina smiles and giggles at the sight of Takeshi, before wiping her eyes.

"Uhh... what were you crying about?" Takeshi asks, his voice nasally due to pinching his nose.

"Oh... it..." Tekina begins, uncharacteristically lost for words. Whatever it is, it must be weighing heavily on her mind. "It's... Rei..."

"Rei Arisato?" Takeshi asks. "I remember her! What's that playful scamp up to these days?"

"She's... dying."

"Oh..." Takeshi mutters. "I'm so sorry..."

"It's okay..." Tekina replies. "It's just... I've spent so much time, so much focus on my research... and I still couldn't learn anything in time to... to save her..."

"T-Tekina, I'm so sorry..." Takeshi sighs.

"It's okay-"

"No, I am," Takeshi asserts. "I... I just want to be able to comfort you when you're sad like this, but look at me! I-I fell flat on my face, my nose is bleeding, and I look ridiculous!"

"You look exactly the way you needed to make me smile again!" Tekina assures him. "It's okay, Takeshi... I always know where your heart lies. I know you'll always be there for me in your silly way... and I'll always be there for you. I love you."

File: Tekina02.jpg (470 KB, 963x1562)

470 KB JPG

She said it... she said those all important words. As she hugs tight into Takeshi, and as he adjusts his head in the embrace in order to avoid getting nose blood on her hair, he sees his opportunity. If she said it... t-then so can he! All he has to do is say it back. It's easy! R-right?

"Tekina, I..." Takeshi begins. Good start. "I... lo... I lo... I l-like... I like l-loving you too."

It wasn't quite what he was supposed to say, but that didn't matter to Takeshi. He could grin knowing that he finally, finally, managed to get the message out there. Before he knows it, Tekina is touching lips with him, and the two are engaging in a reenactment of Tekina's birthday celebration... complete with breaking away suddenly.

"Oh no, our jobs!" Tekina cries out. "We... we're not allowed to..."

"Yeah..." Takeshi sighs, hanging his head low. "I-I guess we shouldn't try to..."

Her hand touches his, their fingers interlock, and she smiles. "You... have a broom closet, correct?" she asks.

"Y... yeah..."

"Then perhaps we can make use of it," she smiles, as the gears begin to turn in Takeshi's head.

"I... I do!" he laughs. "I have a broom closet... I have a broom closet! You hear that world! I, Takeshi Shusaku, have a broom closet!"

With their hands intertwined, Takeshi and Tekina rush to find the sacred broom closet to hide themselves away in... before Takeshi slips on the wet floor once more, inadvertantly pulling Tekina down to the floor with him, as the two collapse in a heap, the smell of hot soapy water and blood surrounding them. Tekina laughs, as does Takeshi. They laugh because they both realise one thing... no matter what comes after this, their relationship is all they could have ever wanted it to be... fun.

THE END

Something that's been requested over the discord, and I'm trying out. A bonus scene featuring that neither MC can be present to witness at the end of threads, usually a skit.

>>941378
OUR BOI IS IN THERE

>>939606
the character pastebin gave me cancer