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>16 Years ago

“Mother, this dress is tight...”

“It's supposed to be,” Kanako's mother explains, puffing away at her cigarette, the heat of the lights bearing down upon the young Kanako. She can barely breathe in the damn clown costume her mother has placed her in, as a stranger readies a camera in her face, and yells for various expressions and poses. Like she's being examined by a group of aliens, probed and prodded at any opportunity.

“Mother, I-”

Kanako's mother stares daggers at her daughter, the vein in her head just about ready to snap. “None of this, again!”

“I just don't see why I should be doing this!”

“Our family's debt-”

“It isn't MY debt!” Kanako whines in a desperate plea for her mother to listen.

The photographer looks up from his camera, a concerned look on his face. “Umm... is this a bad time?”

Kanako's mother laughs. “Oh, of course not! I just seem to be burdened with quite the headstrong daughter. Kanako, darling...”

Kanako's mother step up to her daughter... and slaps her hard across the face, the metal of the ring cutting into Kanako's cheek. “Just what in the hell do you think you're doing, you pig?”

“Mother-”

“I'm not your mother,” she spits. “I don't remember siring an insolent worm. Does it give you pleasure? Undermining me at every turn? Letting down your family?”

“No!” Kanako cries. “I-”

“You're so stubborn that you'd let the Iwatani name die with you?” her mother asks. “Is that what you want?”

“N-no...” Kanako mutters, tears filling her eyes as she rubs her cheek.

Her mother lets out a sigh. “So disappointing... I don't see why you have a problem with this, anyway.”

“I just think there's other ways to make money...” Kanako explains. “I'm not comfortable-”

“It's not about what's comfortable,” her mother explains. “It's about what's right. You want to help your family, don't you? You may think you hate this now... but think about it. You're such a pretty girl... people are going to love you.”

“They... they are?”

“Yes. Of course they are, dear. How could they not? And... isn't that what you really want?”

“... Y-yes. Okay, I'm ready.”

“Not with that cut, you're not. You look trashy. We'll reschedule for another day.”

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>Present Day

“Eat your pasta, Ryoji!”

The smiling Saki holds a fork in front of your face with pasta from the plate you've barely touched attached to it. You shake your head and let out a sigh. “Sorry, Sak. Mind's too focused on that demon...”

Saki pouts. “Same here... but you can't search for a demon on an empty stomach! No matter your concern, it's no good starving yourself.”

“Heh, you're so responsible Sak...” you mutter, before Saki shoves the fork of pasta into your mouth. You let out a low muffle as Saki smiles.

You swallow the pasta and cough a little as you glare at Saki, looking as innocent as ever. “Fine, I'll eat.”

“You should!” Miss Hirashi gasps. “Italian food is delicious! Even better than Italian men!”

Hirashi bites into a pizza, which causes her to make noises and faces that earn your long table so very embarrassing stares.

“It disturbs me that you're a real person,” Green mutters.

“You're no fun!” Hirashi mutters, sticking out her tongue.

“And you're supposed to be an adult...” Green sighs. “Then again, you're close in age to the students than you are to your colleagues... I shouldn't be surprised by this behaviour.”

Sayeka sits next to you, her eyes down on the table, only slightly picking away at her food. “You're looking even more forlorn than usual.”

“The Vanity...” Sayeka mutters. “I can't help but think...”

“Huh?” you ask. “I assume you've seen this city wrapped in vines or destroyed or something, right?”

“Yes... and soon,” Sayeka notes. “But it's harder to get a vision of who The Vanity is. It's much like regular vision... if I don't know where to look, I'm not going to find anything. Since I've never met The Vanity before, it's hard to get a grasp on their immediate future... only the aftermath of their presence.”

Makoto nods, a hopeful smile on his face. “Well, at least the name is still a clue!”

Hikaru leans back in her chair. “Sure, they'll pick a host who's incredibly vain. Considering we're in the land of celebrities... doesn't really help in narrowing down suspects.”

“Though based on who we've met, there's some people who spring to mind...”

Sayeka turns her head to face you. “Ryoji... do you think it could be...?”

>That Kanako woman? She definitely fits the bill...
>I encountered an actor named King Thunder last time I was here. He was plenty vain.
>I can't make any assumptions just yet. In this city, it could really be anyone.

>>2154507
>That Kanako woman? She definitely fits the bill...
>I encountered an actor named King Thunder last time I was here. He was plenty vain.
Two major leads, let us follow both the leads we have.

>>2154507
>>I encountered an actor named King Thunder last time I was here. He was plenty vain.

>>2154507
>That Kanako woman? She definitely fits the bill...

>>2154507
>That Kanako woman? She definitely fits the bill...

>Thinking KT is an Archdemon
Kenfags are still salty I see.

>>2154507
>>That Kanako woman? She definitely fits the bill...
>>I encountered an actor named King Thunder last time I was here. He was plenty vain.

>>2154535
nice id dude

Calling for
>That Kanako woman? She definitely fits the bill...

Writing now.

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>That Kanako woman? She definitely fits the bill...

Sayeka's head perks up a little. You know that's what she was hinting at, and you have to admit you have your suspicions of the woman yourself... still, you don't know how much of that is wishful thinking. Wanting Kanako to be a being of pure evil... an excuse to save your friend from her clutches.

"It's definitely possible..." Saki mutters. "But... wouldn't you have noticed, Ryoji?"

"It's true... we can sense an Archdemons presence. Wouldn't we have noticed that when we met her?"

You shake your head. "Maybe... maybe she wasn't possessed by a demon when we met. Or... maybe she's able to hide her presence like Taiyo and Tsuki could..."

Saki sighs. "I don't know... I don't like the woman either, but there's nothing to make her any more of a suspect than others in this city who meet the little criteria. Then again, meet the criteria she does, so it wouldn't be a bad idea to double check."

"If that's the case, I worry for Chihiro..." Makoto mumbles.

"Weren't you worrying about her anyway?" Mio asks.

"I..." Makoto blushes, before shying away.

It's settled. You're going straight back to that modelling agency to scope out the one and only Kanako Iawatani. Still... you're not sure if you're doing this because you genuinely see Kanako as suspect or simply out of concern for Chihiro. She's one of the best friends you've got, and that look on her face when she was taken in...

"Then off to the modelling agency we go!" Hirashi bounces up from her chair, before giving a wink and throwing up a peace sign. "Who knows, maybe I could land a job there myself!"

"If it involves you leaving the school then I certainly hope so," Green mutters as he covers the bill.

Hirashi places a hand on her hip as she smirks. "Oh, you'd miss me! Don't act like I haven't caught you staring at me all day!"

Green sighs, as Hirashi lets out a laugh. "See, I caught you! And you haven't even had the decency to ask me out yet!"

Green stares at Hirashi, unamused. "No thank you."

"ARE YOU CRAZY?!" Akio yells at Green before getting elbowed in the ribs by an annoyed Hikaru.

"Aw, why not?" Hirashi asks.

"I'm married."

"To the job, or..."

"Married."

Hirashi shakes her head. "Nice try, mister! You don't wear a ring!"

"Doesn't change the fact that I'm married," Green replies.

"Oh yeah?" Hirashi asks. "Then where is this wife of yours."

"... Gone."

"Gone to where?" Hirashi asks. "Europe? India?"

>His wife is dead, idiot.
>Leave him alone, Hirashi.
>I'm not going to get involved. Time to move.

>>2154573
>>Leave him alone, Hirashi.

>>2154573
>His wife is dead, idiot.
Jesus Christ at least show a little tact Hirashi.

>>2154573
>Leave him alone, Hirashi.

Oh hey now, this is a new development for our Green fellow.

Anri and the DGAnime audience are very sad...but maybe not for the reasons they should be

>>2154573
>>Leave him alone, Hirashi.
Green a sad boy

Calling for
>Leave him alone, Hirashi.

Writing now.

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>Leave him alone, Hirashi.

"Huh?" Hirashi asks. "Why? I don't get it..."

Green simply hangs his head low and pushes past Hiraki, who gives little resistance, her cocky expression fading away into a concerned look.

Green turns to you as he passes by. "Hurry up and get this mission over with."

You nod. "We're trying."

The rest of you make your way outside as Hirashi looks out over to Green, who is walking down the street in the opposite direction. "Is he going to be okay?"

"He'll be fine sensei," Mio notes. "But you really need to learn some tact! Don't you know when to quit?"

"I... I'm going to follow him, make sure he's okay!" Hirashi yells, as she runs down the street.

"Apparently she doesn't..." you mutter. "Okay, folks. What's our plan on getting to Kanako?"

"We aren't just bursting in and accusing her of demon work?" Akio asks.

Hikaru poked him in the ribs. "Of course not! We need to move with a lot more tact than that!"

"Kouhai, you got any ideas?"

Mio snaps her fingers. "Well, I can always sweettalk my way in! I do have some business dealings to make with that agency after all! Though I'd probably only be able to bring two people with me... as 'consultants', of course."

"I don't think any of us look the consultant type," you note.

"Well... it's a modelling agency," Hikaru points out.

"And?" you ask.

Hikaru gestures to the group. "I mean... it's not like the ladies we know are ugly. We could probably get in on the basis of an interview... or even a photoshoot with the new celebrities from Dark Gate."

"Does that include you?" Akio asks with a smirk. "Cause babe, I've been waiting to see you in lingerie of a swimsuit-"

"Keep waiting," Hikaru grumbles.

Saki blushes. "Umm... that's definitely idea... but maybe we could think of a more conservative plan? I don't know how I feel about that one..."

>Hikaru's plan gets us all in there in case things go south.
>Mio can get us in long enough to investigate Kanako... then we can move from there.
>I mean... who'd stop us from just barging in?

>>2154634
>>Mio can get us in long enough to investigate Kanako... then we can move from there.

>>2154634
>I mean... who'd stop us from just barging in?
Can't waste time, getting the more obvious suspects out the way means we have more time to figure out who it could be if we're wrong.

>>2154634
>Mio can get us in long enough to investigate Kanako... then we can move from there.
I'm a little nervous about it just being two maybe 3 people with us, but I think that if we set up some sort of code signal, perhaps with cell phones or something, we may be able to get in after the fact.

>>2154634
>I mean... who'd stop us from just barging in?

>>2154634
>I mean... who'd stop us from just barging in?

Calling for
>I mean... who'd stop us from just barging in?

Writing now.

>>2154634
>>Mio can get us in long enough to investigate Kanako... then we can move from there.

>>2154634
>Mio can get us in long enough to investigate Kanako... then we can move from there.

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>I mean... who'd stop us from just barging in?

"B-barging in?!" Saki exclaims, before throwing her hands up. "No! I won't allow it! We can't just barge into someone else's property! It's unlawful!"

"You know what else is unlawful, boss?" Akio asks. "Being a secret demon!"

"Actually there's no official laws on the matter..." Saki mutters. "But I see your point. I can't in good conscience just trespass like that... but I'll allow you to, for the greater good."

"No problem, Sak."

"I'll just wait outside until you're finished or if you need help inside," Saki explains.

"Well, I'll keep you company, senpai!" Mio smiles warmly.

"Me too," Hikaru notes. "Don't do anything stupid, Akio."

"Please babe," Akio smirks. "When was the last time I did anything stupid-"

"About thirty minutes ago."

"Ah."

The rest of you make your way to the Rosebud Modelling Agency office, and casually step inside. You walk through the main lobby, as a receptionist hurriedly clicks her fingers to get your attention. "Um, do you have an appoint-"

"No time for appointments," Akio replies. "Official business from Dark Gate."

The receptionist is stunned, and you're sure Akio thought he sounded plenty cool in that moment. You press on through the hall... before getting more than a little lost.

"Yeah... maybe we should have learned the building layout first," you note.

"Just as we were making a badass stride," Akio sighs.

Makoto shakes his head. "Look, it's somewhere around here. Let's just search the rooms! We'll find her eventually!"

As you move, Sayeka moves by your side. "Ryoji..."

"What's wrong, Sayeka?"

"I don't know if Chihiro will want to see us..." Sayeka notes. "Especially if we're throwing accusations towards her idol. Do... do you think she'll believe us?"

>Of course she will. Chihiro trusts us more than she does some model.
>She won't have a choice. If Kanako is a demon, she'll reveal her true self pretty soon.
>No... but that's why we have to show her the truth.

>>2154722
>>Of course she will. Chihiro trusts us more than she does some model.

>>2154722
>>No... but that's why we have to show her the truth.

>>2154722
>No... but we should at least warn her there's an archdemon here. She'll forgive us for that much at least.

>>2154722
>She won't have a choice. If Kanako is a demon, she'll reveal her true self pretty soon.

>>2154722
>No... but we should at least warn her there's an archdemon here. She'll forgive us for that much at least.
>She won't have a choice. If Kanako is a demon, she'll reveal her true self pretty soon.

I'm not looking forward to this.

>>2154722
>She won't have a choice. If Kanako is a demon, she'll reveal her true self pretty soon.

>>2154722
>She won't have a choice. If Kanako is a demon, she'll reveal her true self pretty soon.

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>13 Years ago

“Hey, do you mind if I sit here?”

Kanako looks up from her lunch, staring at the boy by her side, a pair of packed lunches in his hand.

“Yes,” Kanako mutters, her chin resting on her hand, her legs crossed as she stares off in the distance. “There's plenty of courtyard. Why would you sit here?”

“Well... the rest of the courtyard is plenty empty,” the boy explains. “I'd rather sit with you.”

Kanako glares at the boy in reply, without a word.

“I'm Kohei-”

“I don't recall asking,” Kanako grumbles.

Kohei laughs. “Yeah, our classmates told me you were like this... you really are an idol, aren't you?”

“And it seems you didn't listen to them,” Kanako yawns. “What level of stupidity is that?”

Kohei doesn't back away, no matter how much Kanako glares. Instead, he simply smiles and present her with one of the boxed lunched. “I... I made this for you.”

Kanako leans back in the bench, looking up at the boy. “And why would you do that?”

“Well...” Kohei mutters. “I've been watching you these last few days. Every lunch, you just sit here by yourself. I don't think I've ever seen you eat, either. And... well, I just thought you looked so-”

“Oh, stop!” Kanako yells, a pissed-off look on her face. “Do you honestly believe you're original. I've been faced with this routine a thousand times already. You saw me out here by myself, and you thought I looked so pretty-”

“Not pretty,” Kohei explains. “I mean... you are pretty. Very much so, actually...”

“Speak.”

“I was going to say you looked so... sad,” Kohei explains.

“...Sad?”

Kohei nods. “Something in your eyes. You seem so lonely.”

“N-nonsense...” Kanako pouts, looking away. “Don't you know who I am? How could I be lonely when I'm surrounded by followers?”

Kohei shrugs. “You tell me, Kana-chan.”

Kanako blushes. “D-don't call me that...”

Kohei chuckles and sits down beside the girl. “So... do you want this lunch or not?”

Kanako pauses, her head slowly turning to face Kohei. “I... yes, I would.”

Kohei smiles as he hands Kanako the boxed lunch. “Well... I hope we can be friends some-”

Kohei is interrupted by a quick kiss from a flustered Kanako. “Whoa, I d-didn't expect you to be so eager!”

“I-I wasn't!” Kanako yells, her face turning red. The two stare at each-other... before sharing a laugh. A simple, wholesome laugh... and Kanako notices her cheek hurting. The first genuine smile in years.

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>She won't have a choice. If Kanako is a demon, she'll reveal her true self pretty soon.

"I hope so..." Sayeka mutters. "I just... hope that by the time she reveals her true self, it isn't too late..."

"Hey," you mutter, placing a hand atop Sayeka's head. "It's gonna be okay. Trust me. Trust Chihiro."

Sayeka nods. "I suppose I have been overly worried lately..."

"It's okay. Let's get moving."

You and the group move on to a large room... where it appears there's some sort of part going on. Huh, what's this?

You enter the room and above hangs a banner with the words "Happy Birthday Kanako!" emblazoned upon it.

"It's her birthday?" Akio mutters. "Huh... didn't expect that."

"An office party," Makoto mumbles. "Not the best place to be throwing out accusations, is it?"

Through a door on the other side of the room enters Kanako herself, adorned in an elegant jacket and wielding her whip. Following behind her is Chihiro, a cheerful smile on her face.

"SURPRIIIIIIIIISE!"

The room greets Kanako with glee... who does not respond with any enthusiasm. Instead, she continues with her usual disgusted stare.

"Who set this up?" Kanako demands to know.

"Who else but me?" a cheerful model pops out in front of Kanako. "Same as every year!"

"Yaoyorozu, you insolent worm," Kanako scowls. "How many time do I have to threaten you?"

"Not enough!" Yaoyorozu cackles, a smug grin on her face. "Oh my, what age is it now, Kana-chan?"

"Don't call me that!" Kanako snaps.

"Why, by this point... you must already by twenty-eig-"

Kanako cracks her whip an inch away from the model's face, staring with disgust and disdain. She looks just about ready to go in for the kill before Kiriko places her hand on her arm. "Personally, I think this party is rather charming!" Chihiro smiles, and this seems to stop Kanako in her tracks.

Kanako scoffs and shoves past Yaoyorozu, before her eyes catch you and your group. "My, my... if it isn't your old friends?"

Makoto blushes as Kanako stares at him, as Nina speaks to you.

"Ryoji... I'm not getting anything from her."

"What brings you children here?" Kanako asks.

>You tell us, demon.
>We... just wanted to see how Chihiro was coming along.
>Well, we were interested in seeing the modelling process. Curious to check it out.

>>2154830
>We... just wanted to see how Chihiro was coming along.
>That and we have some official Dark Gate Business to talk about.

Its not lying!

>>2154830
>>Well, we were interested in seeing the modelling process. Curious to check it out.
>>We... just wanted to see how Chihiro was coming along.

>>2154830
>There's a demon loose looking to possess people of influence, so we're testing anyone that fits that criteria.

>>2154830
>Well, we were interested in seeing the modelling process. Curious to check it out.

Again, we need to get Chihiro in private to give her a heads-up about the situation. If there's no warning bells, she may just be a scumbag.

>>2154830
Actually didn't see>>2154842 when I posted, I'll change my vote to that.

>>2154830
>We... just wanted to see how Chihiro was coming along.
>That and we have some official Dark Gate Business to talk about

Calling for
>We... just wanted to see how Chihiro was coming along.
>That and we have some official Dark Gate Business to talk about.

Writing now.

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>We... just wanted to see how Chihiro was coming along.
>That and we have some official Dark Gate Business to talk about.

"What?" Akio raises an eyebrow. "I thought we were going to-"

You quickly interrupt him with an elbow to the ribs... that serves to hurt you a lot. But at least he takes the hint.

"Official business?" Chihiro grins. "Ah, have my friends settled that demon matter already? Just what I expect of you!"

"Then hurry and talk," Kanako grimaces. "I don't have much time to deal with this nonsense. Neither do you, Chihiro."

"Of course, onee-san..." Chihiro gives a respectful bow. "So, what is it?"

You pull Chihiro aside, out of earshot from Kanako, as you explain the situation.

"Look, there's an archdemon on the loose," you explain. "Calling itself The Vanity. So... we were worried it could have taken possession of someone here."

"Like that Yaoyorozu!" Chihiro snaps her fingers. "She always was so boisterous and-"

"No, like Kanako."

Chihiro pauses. "Ah... you were suspect of my new teacher... well, Ryoji? You can sense demons, can you not? Did you find anything?"

"No."

"Then it's all safe then," Chihiro smiles.

You shake your head. "Look, me not being able to sense a demon doesn't mean it's not around. Just... be careful, just in case."

Chihiro places a hand on your shoulder with a smile. "Oh, my dear precious Ryoji... it warms my heart to see your concern for me. But I'll be careful, I always am!"

"Okay..."

Chihiro laughs. "And just because you were so interested in checking in... my internship is going great!"

"R-really?" Sayeka mutters.

"Yes!" Chihiro exclaims. "I must admit, it started very poorly... but it's actually been rather fun. And onee-san may put on a grumpy face in public, but it's all a stylish act! I'm having the time of my life!"

"Are... are you sure?" Sayeka asks.

Chihiro pauses, developing a pout. "You don't sound very happy for me, Sayeka."

>We aren't. We think you're making a mistake getting into this.
>Of course we're happy for you. Sayeka's just a little worried.

>>2154938
>>Of course we're happy for you. Sayeka's just a little worried.

>>2154938
>Of course we're happy for you. Sayeka's just a little worried.

>>2154938
>Of course we're happy for you. Sayeka's just a little worried.
Yes, the person who has constant visions of her friends all dying is worried about you Chihiro

>>2154938
>Of course we're happy for you. Sayeka's just a little worried.
>She really didn't give off the best first impression, and to be entirely honest I still don't like her.

Calling for

>Of course we're happy for you. Sayeka's just a little worried.

Writing now.

>>2154938
>Of course we're happy for you. Sayeka's just a little worried
>We're all worried for you. You say its all good, but Kanako is doesn't look like a healthy role model.

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>Of course we're happy for you. Sayeka's just a little worried.

"Sayeka, is this true?" Chihiro asks.

"Yes," Sayeka nods. "To be honest, I've been a nervous wreck all day."

"Aww," Chihiro smiles. "And why is that?"

"Chihiro..." Sayeka mutters. "Is this truly what you want?"

"Hm?" Chihiro ponders. "Why would you ask me that? Did... did you look into my-"

"Of course not!" Sayeka exclaims. "I promised I wouldn't, but... I just want to know. Is this what you really want to do?"

Chihiro pauses. "Of course. More than anything in the world."

"I see..." Sayeka mutters, as her eyes start to fill up with tears and her speech becomes more blubbering. "T-then I w-w-won't stop youuuuu..."

Chihiro rushes to her sobbing friend, enveloping her in a hug. "It's okay, Sayeka... I'll be perfectly fine. And... you won't see any less of me. I promise."

"C-Chihiro,,,"

"No!" Chihiro tuts. "No more arguing. I made my promise and I'm sticking to it, and I'll not have any objections! After all, who would I be if I couldn't keep a promise to my best friend?"

Chihiro holds Sayeka tight before moving away, back to her teacher.

You turn to Sayeka with a sigh. "You looked into her future, didn't you?"

"I saw a different Chihiro..." Sayeka mutters. "Hateful, cynical, corrupted..."

"Tell her that," you mutter.

Sayeka shakes her head. "She'd never forgive me if she knew I looked into her future. She always said she wanted to make her own choices, even if they were mistakes... b-besides, it's only one potential future, right? I... I still should have faith that Chihiro can change that path on her own... r-right?"

"If that's what you think..." you mutter, frustrated.

"OW!" Kanako howls at the dinner table. "Did you just poke me with a toothpick, you brain-dead spot of black mould? I'm bleeding, you know!"

"Oops, my bad!" Akio admits. "Here, have a napkin!"

"What's this? You can't handle a toothpick properly, Kana-chan? Must be the arthritis setting in, you old lady-"

"I swear Yaoyorozu, one more word and I will crush you beneath my heel!"

Akio makes his way over to you and Sayeka. "Red."

"That confirms it. She's not a demon."

"Are you sure?" Makoto asks. "Just... I can't shake the feeling that..."

"We can hate the woman all we want," you sigh. "Fact is the evidence is looking like she's all human."

"Then... does that mean we should go?" Makoto asks. "Because..."

>Nah, I'm still suspicious. I'm going to keep an eye on Kanako a while longer.
>You guys move on, I'm gonna apologise to Kanako... and Chihiro.
>Yeah, that's the end of that. Guess we need to look elsewhere.

>>2155043
>>You guys move on, I'm gonna apologise to Kanako... and Chihiro.

>>2155043
>Yeah, that's the end of that. Guess we need to look elsewhere

Guess it's time to move on to harassing Ken's new buddy Thunder Peasant

>>2155043
>Yeah, that's the end of that. Guess we need to look elsewhere.

>>2155043
>Yeah, that's the end of that. Guess we need to look elsewhere.

>>2155043
>You guys move on, I'm gonna apologise to Kanako... and Chihiro.

Whaaaaaaaaaaa

Calling for
>Yeah, that's the end of that. Guess we need to look elsewhere.

Writing now.

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>10 Years ago

“K-Kohei?”

Kanako stands in the doorway, her face aghast and tears filling her eyes, horrified by the sight before her in her mother's bed.

“K-Kana-chan, I can explain!” Kohei yells, popping up from the bed. “I... I...”

“Don't bother lying to the girl,” Kanako's mother replies, still smoking her cigarette. “She's smarter than you think she is.”

“Kana-chan, this isn't what it looks-”

“Leave,” Kanako coldly demands, as Kohei grabs his underwear and runs.

Kanako's mother lets out a cackle as she stands up from the bed and approached her daughter. “What's the matter, deary? Did you honestly think he was any different from the others?”

“I...” Kanako sobs.

“All he ever cared about was your money and your body,” her mother explains. “Just like all the others. Honestly, you should be thanking me for exposing that pig's dishonesty.”

“B-but I...”

Her mother laughs. “Let this serve as a lesson to you dear. You can't trust any of them. People are selfish peons who only care for fulfilling their basest of desires. They all love you, yes... but none of them will truly like you. If you ever wish to survive in this world, you'll strike them before they strike you. Do you finally understand?”

“I... yes, I do.”

"Good... now, are you just going to let that boy leave like that? Or are you going to crush him under your heel?"

"... Right."

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>Yeah, that's the end of that. Guess we need to look elsewhere.

You let out a defeated sigh as you usher the resat of the class to get moving. There's no time to waste in the search for The Vanity, and as much as you want to stick around for Chihiro's sake... you can't afford to spend that precious time here.

"Come on, let's go."

"W-wait..." Makoto mutters, as he first runs across the room to meet up with Chihiro as she's been lead away by Kanako. Makoto stands before them and gives a respectful bow. "Chihiro..."

"Yes, my dear?" Chihiro asks. "What is it?"

"W-when you finish your lessons for today..." Makoto mumbles. "Would... would you like to meet with me at the Italian restaurant this evening? You... you can even call it a... a... a date!"

Chihiro's face lights up, while Makoto's is bright red. She clasps her hands together with a smile. "Oh Makoto, I'd love-"

A whip cracks, and Chihiro stops in her tracks.

"I-I mean," she clears her throat, her ladylike tone fading away to make room for a more sadistic growl... albeit a shaky one. "W-why on earth would I ever want to lower myself to having dinner with a... a p-peon like... like... Makoto, I'm sorry-"

"Not good enough!" Kanako yells, taking Chihiro by the hand. "Come along, Chihiro. You still have plenty to learn!"

"Y-yes, onee-san..."

Makoto returns to the group, dejected.

"Got shot down, huh?" Akio smirks. "Tough break."

"I wasn't confessing or anything..." Makoto admits. "I just hoped I could pull her away from that teacher for a while... for her sake."

You and the group make your way outside, where Saki and the two others are waiting, now joined by Green and Hirashi.

"How did it go?" Saki asks.

You shake your head. "No luck. We'll have to try somewhere else."

"Well... any suggestions?" Saki asks.

>Let's try with that King Thunder guy.
>Let's try one of the broadcast stations, there's usually some personalities around there.

>>2155140
>Let's try with that King Thunder guy
Thunder Peasant!

>>2155140
>Let's try one of the broadcast stations, there's usually some personalities around there.

Or at the very least if the Vanity strikes we know where to go.

>>2155140
>>Let's try with that King Thunder guy.

>>2155140
>Let's try one of the broadcast stations, there's usually some personalities around there.

>>2155140
>Let's try one of the broadcast stations, there's usually some personalities around there.

Calling for
>Let's try one of the broadcast stations, there's usually some personalities around there.

Writing now.

>>2155140
>Let's try with that King Thunder guy.
I dont suspect of him, but I am sure a true hero like him would help us find te demon.

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>Let's try one of the broadcast stations, there's usually some personalities around there.

"It's a good guess," Saki replies. "But I can't help but feel like we're shooting in the dark with this one."

"Better than nothing at all," you point out.

Saki nods. "Right. We don't have much time, so let's keep moving."

You and the group make your way to the nearest broadcast station, the same one you and Saki had your news interview not too long ago.

"Oh boy, I hope we don't get mobbed by the press..." Akio mutters.

"Yes you do!" Hikaru exclaims.

"Yeah, that would be the best," Akio smirks, daydreaming.

Hirashi's eyes light up. "Ooh, you mean I might end up on the news?"

"No," Green notes. "You and I are waiting outside."

Hirashi pouts. "You know... this trip isn't as fun as I hoped it'd be."

"Would you rather you were torn apart by a loose demon?"

"... Not really," Hirashi mumbles through her pout.

You hit the buzzer on the door as a receptionist comes through on the other line. "State your business."

"Hey, we're here from Dakugeto. We're hoping to do some personal investigating on a potential situation."

"Wow senpai, spoken like a true responsible adult," Mio teases.

You growl at her before the voice on the other end replies.

"I'm sorry, but we can't allow a large group inside at once. We'll only allow two at once, for safety reasons."

Fine... but who do you want to take in with you?

>Saki
>Sayeka
>Makoto
>Mio
>Akio
>Hikaru
>Green
>Hirashi

>>2155252
>Saki

>>2155252
>Green
Need those CIA credentials.

>>2155252
>Mio

Keep the strong fighters out so that if we are right, and that the Vanity is about to go rampage, the strong fighters can head out, people like Sayeka and Makoto can get Chihiro and Green and Hirashi run crowd control.

>>2155252
>>Sayeka

>>2155252
>Saki

I finally make in time for a thread. We always take best girl with us.

>>2155252
>Green

>>2155252
>>Sayeka
She is the most useful, we dont need heavy fighters yet, and we can sense demon just fine without Hikaru's help, dont need lies or normies so Mio and the normies stay.

>>2155274
>Sayeka
Going to switch and hope I'm not wrong.

Calling for

>Sayeka

Writing now.

>>2155311
Oh boy
Time for the paparazzi to spread rumours about Ryoji cheating on Saki, complete with pictures of Ryoji and Sayeka by themselves

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>Sayeka

"Sayeka, you mind coming with?"

Sayeka nods, as the two of you begin to make your way inside the building.

"Good luck!" Saki calls out. "Be careful not to be swept up in the craze of the hungry media!"

You and Sayeka make your way inside, and make your way past the receptionist.

"Why did you pick me?" Sayeka asks.

You shrug. "To be honest, I still wanted to keep an eye on you?"

"On me?"

You nod. "Seriously, Sayeka? You think I don't know when one of my best friends is tearing up inside."

Sayeka gets a little flustered. "D-don't slow yourself down for my sake, Ryoji. I'm just being a worrywart."

"Worrywart... sounds like something Chihiro would day."

"Well... she is on my mind," Sayeka admits. "I... thank you, Ryoji. You're such an awfully good friend to me."

"You're a good pal yourself," you reply. "Don't sell yourself short."

Sayeka sighs. "I just... wish I could do more sometimes. I worry too much, I'm useless in combat... and while my visions are no longer fuzzy and limited... they've gone too far in the opposite direction. They're too variable, too vague... and I still don't think I can predict demon possession. It seems such a thing is a... godly intervention, completely disrupts the flow of all timelines. It something my visions can't see until it happens."

"Don't beat yourself up," you reply. "You're still an important part of our team. You're like a moral centre. Without people like you, and Saki, and Ken... we'd be lost. You're someone to inspire us."

Sayeka cracks a small smile from all the flattery, as you place a hand on her head and pull her in for a comforting side-hug. "We'll be okay... and so will Chihiro."

"I hope so..."

"What's this?!" One passing reporter announces, "Is Ryoji Shida in the arms of a new woman? A blind mistress?"

"I hate that people know us by name now..." you sigh, as you and Sayeka press on.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GTFbNkr4GD4

"Wait do you hear that?" you ask.

"Hear what?" Sayeka asks. "The girl hiding in that trash can ready to pop out?"

As Sayeka finishes her sentence, out from the trash pops a familiar face.

"Ah, we meet again!" Michiko announces. "The infamous students of Dark Gate!"

"You again?" you yawn.

"Hey, be more impressed!" Michiko demands. "I've been tailing you all since you arrived here! Snooping from place to place... what kind of nefarious purpose could you have?"

>Oh, we're here to take over the world. Nothing big.
>We're checking out a demon disturbance. You wouldn't know anything, would you?
>Was the trash can really necessary?
>Tailing us... or tailing Akio?

>>2155366
>We're checking out a demon disturbance. You wouldn't know anything, would you?
>Was the trash can really necessary?
>Tailing us... or tailing Akio?
I mean, she already knows about demons...so might as well ask...

>>2155366
>>Was the trash can really necessary?

>>2155366
>>Was the trash can really necessary?
>>We're checking out a demon disturbance. You wouldn't know anything, would you?
Love her BGM, I would have picked the first option but she might actually believe that.

>>2155366
>Tailing us... or tailing Akio?
Seriously, who thought telling her was a smart move?

>>2155366
>Was the trash can really necessary?
>Tailing us... or tailing Akio?
>"You're a good pal yourself," you reply. "Don't sell yourself short."
Yes wherr would we bebif hadn't told me to feed the Stranger, resulting in me being body jacked for months whe the Stranger ysed my body like a meat suit to unleash the 12 demons of Armageddon. Total a best friend move!

>>2155376
>We're checking out a demon disturbance. You wouldn't know anything, would you?
>Was the trash can really necessary?
Just going to change it to this.

We need to focus on information.

Calling for
>Was the trash can really necessary?

Writing now.

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>Was the trash can really necessary?

"W-what?!"

You shrug. "I mean, you didn't surprise us. But did you really need to hide in a trash can to try and surprise us? You've got a banana peel on your head by the way."

Michiko looks up and her face turns red as she removes the banana peel from her head with an embarrassed grumble. "It's totally important! The ability to stay concealed is vital for any investigative journalist!"

"Okay, but I just don't see why it needed to be a trash can..." Sayeka mutters, confused.

"Well, a rich lady would never be able to understand the need to get down and dirty!" Michiko exclaims.

"I'm the daughter of a carpenter," Sayeka points out.

"Oh..." Michiko mumbles. "Well, prepare to meet your match!"

Michiko leaps out of the trash can... and immediately slips on the banana peel she tossed aside as she lands, falling and hitting her head off the floor, sniffling in pain.

"Are you okay?" Sayeka asks.

"I-I'm fine!" Michiko yells. "But I must admit, it's curious that you'd come here, of all places."

"Why's that?" you ask.

"Well, this is the news station where they broadcast Takaaki Yamada!"

"... Who?"

Michiko gasps. "You don't know Takaaki Yamada? He's only my personal hero, and the only newscaster with enough bravery to call out the threat and potential dangers that Dark Gate Academy poses to the world at large!"

"So he's a crackpot," you yawn.

"N-no!" Michiko yells.

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"So... you were really tailing us this whole time?" you ask. "Even... in the sewers?"

"Those vines..." Michiko mutters, her face turning pale. "So haunting... so beautiful..."

"Well you certainly smell like the sewer," you note, angering Michiko even more.

"O-oh yeah?" Michiko exclaims. "Well... well... I'm going to stand in your path! What are you going to do about it? A-A genuine hero would never shove past a civilian!"

You look to Sayeka, then back at Michiko, before letting out a sigh. You walk over and pick her up, tossing her over your shoulder and walking back towards the exit.

"Nooooooooooooooo! My investigatioooooon!"

The receptionist gives you some weird looks as you carry Michiko outside, dumping her on her feet in front of the others. "Found this one spying on us."

"Uh... h-hi?" Michiko waves.

"Michiko..." Akio mutters, causing Michiko to blush.

"So... this is Michiko, eh?" Hikaru mutters, cracking her fists with a deathly stare, emitting an 'eep' from the frightened Michiko.

"P-please don't hurt me!" Michiko yelps. "Akio, help!"

Akio lets out a sigh. "Michiko, what the hell are you doing here?"

"My job as an investigative reporter!"

"You weren't this delusional when I knew you," Akio points out. "You were smarter, more responsible. Had your life on track. What happened to that Koetsu guy you were dating?"

"W-w-what's with this interrogation?" Michiko sniffles, driven to tears. "W-what are you people going to do with me?"

>Nothing. You can join the protests outside our school for all we care.
>We're warning you to stay away from us.
>Right now? You're staying with us. We want to compare research.

>>2155480
>>Right now? You're staying with us. We want to compare research.

>>2155480
>Right now? You're staying with us. We want to compare research.
We have NO LEADS. We need leads.

>>2155480
>We're warning you to stay away from us.
She was deadweight in Akio's POV and she's deadweight now.

>>2155480
>Right now? You're staying with us. We want to compare research.

Say what you will about her attitude, but the girl is practically a mouse with how she can get in just about anywhere.

>>2155480
>>Nothing. You can join the protests outside our school for all we care.
And so begins a wonderful new friendship.

>Michiko gasps. "You don't know Takaaki Yamada? He's only my personal hero, and the only newscaster with enough bravery to call out the threat and potential dangers that Dark Gate Academy poses to the world at large!"
Do you know if he is, I dont know, Vain?

>>2155480
>"Nothing at the moment, But I could go find another Garbage can for you to hide in if you really want."

>>2155480
>Nothing. You can join the protests outside our school for all we care.

Calling for
>Right now? You're staying with us. We want to compare research.

Writing now.

>>2155534
Just think, when danger strikes, we can just find a garbage bin! She's safe in there!

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>Right now? You're staying with us. We want to compare research.

"C-compare research?" Michiko mumbles. "And just why would I share with you the fruits of my own-"

Hikaru stares at Michiko, letting out a low yet aggressive hum.

"O-o-okay!" Michiko crumbles, as she hands over her notes. "This is everything I jotted down while following you guys!"

Saki takes the handbook and flicks onto the first page. "Uhh... most of this is about Akio... and tracings of his abs..."

"Read past that!" a flustered Michiko whines.

Saki skims through all the pages, but lets out a sigh when she's finished.

"No good," Saki mutters. "There's nothing in here that we don't already know."

"Sorry..." Michiko mumbles.

You rub your temples in frustration. "Dammit... it's going to take us forever to track down whoever the demon possessed."

"... What makes you think it possessed anyone?" Michiko asks.

Your head perks up. "What?"

"Well..." Michiko places a finger to her chin. "The demon left a note for you guys, didn't it? So... that means it knows you were here, and that you were going to be looking for it..."

"So?" Akio asks.

"So..." Michiko mutters. "I'm just saying... if I was that demon, I'd probably wait until you ruled out the main suspect and moved on before possessing them. Throw you off the scent to get a head start... right?"

The group looks at Michiko in silence.

"W-what?!" Michiko whines. "Did I say something stupid?!"

"... Shit."

"Ryoji..."

"She's right..." Sayeka mutters, her face grimacing. "I can see it now..."

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>Meanwhile

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQ4_YvskQm0

“Are you okay in there?”

Kanako picks up a handful of towels off the floor of the room. The steam coming from under the door leaves a distinct moisture in the air of her bathroom.

“Fine, thank you?” Chihiro's voice calls out over the running water. “Oh, this shampoo smells heavenly!”

“Only the best for me and my student!” Kanako chuckles, as she sits on the edge of the bed.

“I can't believe you never mentioned it was your birthday!” Chihiro calls out.

Kanako groans. “When you get to my age... you start dreading birthdays.”

“Oh, that can't be true!” Chihiro laughs. “It's not like you're some old woman! You're only twenty-eigh-”

“Don't say it!” Kanako snarls, with a murderous grimace on her face. She doesn't quite know why she's still looking after her new intern. Usually she'd have a gentleman caller over by this time, often that pathetic new movie star. So big and macho, yet he crumbles like a paper cup in her presence. For that, he was rapidly becoming a favourite... not that she even enjoyed her favourites anymore. Perhaps whatever she sees in this Chihiro... could it be a soft spot? Kanako has long since forgotten what such a thing felt like.

Kanako looks into the mirror on her dresser table. More bags under her eyes, slight crow's feet, accumulating over another stressful year. There's only so much longer she can cover it up... when that day comes, she'll no longer be the most desirable woman in Japan. People won't love her as much Kanako wonders who she would be then.

Kanako hears singing from the shower. Chipper, cheerful singing. Like a bird in the morningtime. The joy in her tone... it's completely foreign to Kanako by this point. Chihiro... she's something else. Reminds Kanako of herself in... other times.

Kanako stares in front of the mirror. Those bags seem bigger than they did a few second ago. The crow's feet ever expanding. She looks to her hands, and she she's dried up prunes. The end... it's coming. Everything she held so tight... gone in moments.

"Oh..." Kanako mutters to herself. "I wish I could stay young and beautiful..."

THAT CAN BE ARRANGED.

END OF EPISODE 8

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>Ending Theme
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZLEXj52lcc

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

>Twitter
https://twitter.com/bookerman32

>Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/BookerMan

>Discord
https://discord.gg/yz7sDra

Thanks for playing folks! With Christmas and New Years coming up, this might be the last proper session until early January, but have no fear, as there'll be plenty of bonus stuff on the way! Happy Holidays!

>Player Question
So, The Vanity has been revealed. How is Ryoji and the gang gonna handle this one? And what will become of Chihiro?

>>2155637
Thanks for running Booker, a shame that next episode will be until January, I was expecting to finish this arc before Holidays but oh well.

>Player Question
She'll be fine she has her friends support, I am actually worried about Sayeka who is not in a pretty place right now.

>>2155637
Great session. I am nervous as fuck.

>PQ
I think Chihiro will need some convincing, because the Vanity is going to do its best to have the two split up so she can kill Chihiro, or have her hurt/kill us. However, I think Chihiro will pull through, and maybe, JUST MAYBE, get some wings, so to speak.

>>2155684
I too, fear for Sayeka. She's looking mighty martyry...but maybe its two pairs of wings for the price of one?

>>2155637
Thanks for Running Booker

>What will happen to Chihiro
Kanako is going to sacrifice her and bath in her Virgin blood for eternal youth