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“Halt, villains!”

The pair of bleached blonde boys with rolled up sleeves and gelled back hair turn their heads away from their victim, a bespectacled nerd from a rich family, in order to scout the source of the voice. Their personal piggybank cowers and cries on the floor, yen spilling from his pockets, as the taller of the pair look over to see the one confronting them... then he has to adjust his head to look closer to the ground before letting out a laugh. The source of the voice from a little kid, probably not even close to graduating elementary, with a ridiculous yellow cape made from curtain tied to his back and an equally garish bucket on his head, acting as some sort of helmet. On top of all this is the toy wooden sword in his right hand. How ridiculous.

“Get outta here kid,” the first of the middle schoolers mutters. “Go piss in the sandpit or something.”

“I'll never leave a defenceless civil...civilia... person!” the kid explains. “Because I'm Isamu Iori, the ultimate hero!”

The two older boys snort in derision. “Really? Come on shrimp, how old are you? Five? Six?”

“I'm eight!” Isamu exclaims. “B-but that doesn't matter! Age doesn't matter! A hero is a hero, no matter how small!”

“What the hell...?” one of the boys mutters.

“I know this kid,” the other laughs. “He's starting to get a reputation around here! Lil' Buckethead! He runs around trying to be a hero. I think he's some weird special needs kid. Got caught spying on the ladies bath at the hot springs too.”

The other boy laughs. “Oh, that's rich! I didn't know someone could be that much of a loser!”

“Laugh all you want!” Isamu exclaims. “But I'm here to stop you!”

Isamu charges, only to be casually tripped up by the bully. His sword falls from his hand as he scrapes his knee. The bully smirks as he picks up the wooden sword. “Look, I'm not afraid of beating up a kid. So why don't you beat it, and I'll just leave you with this?”

The bully whacks the wooden sword against the bucket helmet of Isamu, causing it to vibrate and ring within Isamu's head. The two boys grab the yen from their victim and casually saunter away, before being charged at by Isamu again. “No!” he exclaims. “That's not enough to stop me! You can't stop a hero! You can't-”

Isamu is stopped hin his tracks by a sudden fist to the gut. “I told you, I don't mind beating up a kid,” the bully mutters.

Isamu collapses, and proceeds to receive a beating from the two boys twice his size. Five minutes later, Isamu is fighting back tears as he examines his bruises and scrapes. The bespectacled victim walks up to the little boy and lets out a snort. “You stupid kid,” he mutters. “What did you think you were doing? You didn't help me. You didn't help anyone. You just got yourself beat up. Idiot.”

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Isamu's return home was a defeated one, his bucket scraping along the floor as he drags it with him, sobbing in pain. He's greeted by his fussing mother at the door, who gasps in fear and immediately pulls out a tissues to clear her eyes and running nose before applying band-aids to his scrapes and hugging him tight. “Oh Isamu, sweety!” she cries. “Who would do this to my little boy?”

“Some older boys...” Isamu explains. “They were picking on someone else! I had to stop them! Are... are you mad?”

Isamu's father lets out a sigh as he places his son upon his knee. “Isamu, my boy... do you know what it means to be a hero?”

Isamu sniffles. “It means you're cool and strong and-”

His father shakes his head. “No, not that. A hero is always looking out for others. Caring for others. Protecting those who can't protect themselves. Today, you tried just that... so, no. We're not mad. In fact, I'm quite proud of you.”

“R-really?”

“Yes,” his father nods. “You truly have the heart of a hero, Isamu. Don't ever lose that spark.”

“I... I promise I won't!” Isamu exclaims. “Never ever!”

“Of course,” his father wags his finger. “Caring for others means caring for your poor mother and father who don't want you to be hurt. So, promise us you'll try not to start pointless fights you can't win, okay?”

“Okay, I promise!”

“Good. Your mother will wash the dirt off your cape. Go sit with your sister.”

Isamu enters his living room, where a two year old Marise crawls along the floor. She looks to her big brother and point at the bucket-hatted child. “He-ro!”

Isamu smiles warmly, before letting out a boastful chuckle, his hands on his hips. “That's right, sister Marise! The greatest hero! Isamu Iori!”

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>Present Day

“Isamu, the hell are you doing?”

You and Saki walk into the lounge, noticing Isamu standing by the entryway, flexing his muscles and cutting ridiculous poses in the morning.

“Ah, Ryoji Shida!” Isamu smiles as he switches his pose slightly. “What a beautiful day it is! I was simply practising my dynamic battle poses for our next battle!”

You sigh. “Okay, I guess I knew that already. Let me rephrase... why the hell are you doing that?”

“He does it every morning...” Rei yawns as she sits on the couch, likely taking a break after their morning training. “Are you honestly surprised?”

“No, just curious,” you reply. “You're one of three people in the entire world who can go all Archangel and you're focused on poses.”

“Cut him some slack,” Rei points out. “He's been training like a madman all morning. All week, even! This is just his allowed time to release all his pent up goofiness.”

“Besides, it's fun!” Isamu chuckles. “Come, Ryoji Shida! Pose with me! A pose befitting a pair of great heroes!”

You shake your head. “No way. Don't lump me into your great and noble heroes routine. I'm not running around calling myself a hero.”

Saki ponders. “Ryoji, do you not consider yourself a hero?”

“You have to admit you've performed enough heroic deeds to earn the label, Ryoji.”

Rei smirks. “Knowing Ryoji, he probably thinks he's some daring and devilish rogue.”

“A Master Delinquent who just got unlucky I bet!” Saki smiles as she places her hands on her hips.

“Would I be wrong?” you smirk.

Isamu rushes up and places his hand on your shoulder. “My good friend Ryoji Shida, stop with this nonsense! Surely, you can see the brimming heroism that rages deep within us? You're a hero!”

>I mean, I guess I kinda am... but I'm not gonna make stupid poses.
>Not really. Beating the shit out of demons doesn't make me heroic.
>Yeah, but I'll leave the bragging about it to you, Isamu... and Ken... and Akio... and sometimes Saki.

>>2422722
>>I mean, I guess I kinda am... but I'm not gonna make stupid poses

>>2422722
>>Yeah, sure, but I'll leave the bragging about it to you, Isamu... and Ken... and Akio... and sometimes Saki.

>>2422722
>>Yeah, but I'll leave the bragging about it to you, Isamu... and Ken... and Akio... and sometimes Saki.

>>2422722
>Not really. Beating the shit out of demons doesn't make me heroic.

>>2422722
>Not really. Beating the shit out of demons doesn't make me heroic.

>>2422722
>Yeah, but I'll leave the bragging about it to you, Isamu... and Ken... and Akio... and sometimes Saki.

>>2422722
>>Not really. Beating the shit out of demons doesn't make me heroic.
Ryoji is a sad for no reason
Isamu is not sad despite having many reasons

Mathematical proof that Isamu best boy

>>2422738
>So, promise us you'll try not to start pointless fights you can't win, okay
So Isamu is only barely allowed to start fights pet peacocks
Got it

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>2422729
>>2422731
>>2422738
>Yeah, but I'll leave the bragging about it to you, Isamu... and Ken... and Akio... and sometimes Saki.


>>2422732
>>2422737
>>2422741
>Not really. Beating the shit out of demons doesn't make me heroic.

Rolling to break the tie.

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>Not really. Beating the shit out of demons doesn't make me heroic.

"Ryoji, don't be stubborn!" Saki lectures. "And watch the language! You fight demons to help people!"

You shrug. "Eh, that's really more of a bonus. Most demons just piss me off. It's nice, but I don't set out to defend innocents or rescue fair maidens or whatever. Usually I'm the kind to corrupt fair maidens, am I right Sak?"

"Ryojiiiiiii!" Saki pouts. "Hmph. Well it doesn't matter what you consider yourself, you're a hero! You may be a scoundrel and a delinquent, but I see right through your tough guy act!"

You smirk. "Sure you do, Sak."

Isamu lets out a chuckle. "Ah, the greatest wall to scale, the greatest obstacle for a hero to breach! Ryoji Shida's pride! My good friend is too embarrassed to pose like a real hero, despite the raging fire in his gut that tells him to throw caution to the wind and go nuts! Isn't that right?"

"I don't sense a raging fire. If anything, you're colder in your gut..."

"Not a chance," you remark. "Nobody would want to pose like that-Saki, why?"

Your eyes dart to see Saki practising her own dynamic pose. "Like this, right?"

"A decent start!" Isamu exclaims. "You need to put more stretching into it, Saki Kobashi!"

"Look, it's like this!" Rei explains. "Kobashi, I'm not surprised you can't pose as well as I can!"

Before long all four in the room are shifting poses as you look on, cigarette in mouth and a look of disbelief on your face. Well, you suppose you brought this on yourself.

You make your way to the countertop and notice a small envelope. "Yo, Sak. Letter for you."

"Hm?" Saki raises an eyebrow as the approaches the envelope, gently opening it and reading the letter inside. "Oh..."

"Something bad?" you ask.

Saki shakes her head. "No, just surprising. It's from my cousins."

"Cousins?" you ask.

Saki nods. "On my mom's side of the family. Three of them. They saw us on tv and they want us to visit. I remember when we were kids... they used to tease me a lot. Not as bad as others, but they did like to poke fun."

"Well, screw that," you shrug. "We don't need any more of the Kobashi kin bothering us."

"I don't know..." Saki ponders. "It's been years since I last met them. It would be kinda nice to see them again. Worst case scenario is they're jerks and we leave early, anyway. What do you think?"

>I think we shouldn't bother. Up to you though, Sak.
>You can go, but count me out. No offence Sak, but I've had enough of your family to last a lifetime.
>Sure, why not? You can even stick it in their faces that you're a beloved celebrity now.

>>2422774
>>I think we shouldn't bother. Up to you though, Sak.
Time for BIG BOOB GENES

>>2422774
>>Sure, why not? You can even stick it in their faces that you're a beloved celebrity now.

>>2422774
>>I think we shouldn't bother. Up to you though, Sak.

>>2422774
>Sure, why not? You can even stick it in their faces that you're a beloved celebrity now
>If the only other option is sitting here watching Isamu flex in the mirror I say we visit your cousins

>>2422774
>I think we shouldn't bother. Up to you though, Sak.

>>2422774
>Sure, why not? You can even stick it in their faces that you're a beloved celebrity now
Surely not ALL Kobashi's are bad, right? Think of it as being better the farther away from asshole Nexus that is her parents.

>>2422774
>I think we shouldn't bother. Up to you though, Sak.

Calling for
>I think we shouldn't bother. Up to you though, Sak.

Writing now.

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>I think we shouldn't bother. Up to you though, Sak.

Saki stares at the letter, deliberating over it for a few moments, letting out a hum as she ponders the idea. "Hmm... I'll think about it. I'll let you know by tomorrow what I've decided. Let me pencil that answer in for about 2pm tomorrow."

"Saki," you sigh. "You don't have to schedule telling me your schedule. You're proving that there is such a thing as being too organised."

"Oh, sorry..." Saki lets out a small laugh. "Well, I'll let you know when I decide, okay?"

"Alright," you nod, as Saki stands on her tiptoes to kiss you. "I wonder what my cousins will think of you."

You smirk. "Oh, they'll love me," you remark. "Just like the rest of your family."

Saki pauses. "But Ryoji, the rest of my family hate... sarcasm. I got it."

"You're getting better at spotting it," you comment.

"Thanks!"

You and Saki begin to make breakfast in the lounge. And by that, you of course mean that you make breakfast and do everything you can to lure her away from the pan. Surprise hugs and kisses from behind, teasing her with tickles... all satisfying on its own, but has the added benefit of distracting Saki from make the jet black eggs of death she's gained a reputation for. There's a reason she considers you the class tactician, after all.

The two of you sit down and eat your eggs as Saki looks over to you. "So Ryoji, what are your plans after breakfast?"

>Ken and I are going to go fishing by the lake. He needs to unwind after that King Thunder visit.
>Kaz was away on a school trip yesterday. I was hoping to welcome my kouhai back.
>Honestly, I was hoping to go back to bed. Wanna join, Sak?

>>2422812
>>Ken and I are going to go fishing by the lake. He needs to unwind after that King Thunder visit.
Time to catch the biggest fish of them all
Friendship

>>2422812
>>Ken and I are going to go fishing by the lake. He needs to unwind after that King Thunder visit.

>>2422812
>>Ken and I are going to go fishing by the lake. He needs to unwind after that King Thunder visit.

>>2422812
>I think we shouldn't bother. Up to you though, Sak.

>>2422812
>Honestly, I was hoping to go back to bed. Wanna join, Sak?

Calling for
>Ken and I are going to go fishing by the lake. He needs to unwind after that King Thunder visit.

Writing now.

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>Ken and I are going to go fishing by the lake. He needs to unwind after that King Thunder visit.

"Sounds like fun!" Saki smiles. "I guess it's not my place to join you. You boys have to enjoy your male bonding... or something. Besides, I need to take care of my grandpa. You know how cranky he is in the morning."

"In the morning?" you raise an eyebrow. "Pretty sure he's an ass all day."

Saki lets out a small giggle. "Well, enjoy your fishing Ryoji. I'll talk to you later, and I'll call you if I need anything."

Saki kisses you after finishing her breakfast and strides off, ready to face the day like the bold, responsible young woman she is.

You meanwhile smoke another cigarette before making your way into town to meet with Ken. After the events with King Thunder yesterday... you really wonder how he's doing.

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>Years ago

“Ken! Welcome home!”

Ken's mother, Harumi Tajiri, greets her son as her takes off his shoes at the front door. “Don't you have anything to say?”

“Hey mom,” the young Ken smiles as he removes his shoes. “School was pretty fun.”

“Not that,” Harumi shakes her head. “I was actually hoping for an explanation as to why you're ten minutes late, and your uniform is all dirty!”

Ken looks down and notices the state of his clothing. “Oh, that! Sorry mom. Old Lady Oka's cat was stuck in a tree, so I-”

“Called the fire department and waited until they sorted it out?” Harumi smirks. “Didn't think so.”

“The cat was scared,” Ken explains. “And Old Lady Oka didn't know what to do...”

Harumi sighs. “Ken, stuff like pulling cats out of trees is best left to public servants, not a ten year old boy.”

Ken pouts. “But I couldn't just wait around while they were in trouble. If I could do something to help, why wouldn't I?”

Harumi can't help but smile and ruffle Ken's hair. “I don't know what I did in a past life to deserve a son as sweet and kind-hearted as you. My friend Yuki is stuck with a nightmare of a son. Honestly, that's the only reason I've never brought you to visit them a few towns over. I'm scared their boy will bully my pure-hearted hero.”

“I'm not scared of him!” Ken laughs, as his mother sends him to get changed. Ken rushes up to his room, changing into some casual clothes. It's then that his eyes catch a framed photo by his bedside. Him and his father by the lake, fishing rods in hand, smiling for the camera. It's been three years since that day... the day Ken learned of justice, at the cost of someone very important to him. He holds the photo and gives a small, longing smile. He hopes that whatever his dad is going right now, he'd be proud of Ken. He'd be proud of what he's doing.

“Keeeeen!” Harumi calls from downstairs. “The new Red Mask is on!”

Ken rushes down the stairs, receives another hair ruffle from his mom as he plops himself in front of the tv. One day... he'll be a hero. A real hero. Just like Red Mask.

Except without all the poses and costumes. That would be silly, wouldn't it?

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>Present Day

You make your way down to the lake where you spot a pair of fishing rods by the shore, waiting by the water. You make your way over the hill as Ken comes into your view... though your best friend isn't alone.

"Oh, god!" you turn your head away in disgust, after seeing something you really didn't want to see. "Guys, really? You knew I was coming!"

"Ah, a surprise ambush!" Nanami exclaims as she pulls away from Ken, and begins to fix her sweater, pulling it down as she and Ken blush.

"I thought you'd take a little longer..." Ken admits. "And we kinda got carried away... what are you so disgusted for! We were just making out! I've walked in on you and Saki doing much worse!"

You shake your head. "Yeah, but the cap'n is like a little sister to me. I don't need to see my best friend getting some under the bra action with her."

"You really see me like that?" Nanami smiles warmly. "Yar har! The Dread Pirate Ryoji Shida shows his true loyalty lies with the Pirate Queen!"

Nanami laughs as Ken snickers as well. "Sorry, Ryoji... we aren't usually like that. I guess yesterday just sparked us with added... passion."

"I can hardly believe what I'm hearing," you mutter, un-enthused. "I need another smoke. Nanami, you sticking around? And keeping your hands out of Ken's pants?"

"But his soft booty-" Nanami begins, before letting out a cough. "Ahem... you want me to stay? You don't mind?"

>Of course you can stay. I'm not gonna chase you off.
>Well, this fishing thing is kinda exclusive to me and Ken...

>>2422869
>>Of course you can stay. I'm not gonna chase you off.

Oshit more flashbacks. This is good shit.

>>2422869
>Of course you can stay. I'm not gonna chase you off.

>>2422869
>>Of course you can stay. I'm not gonna chase you off.
Ken is equal to Isamu in the reasons to bed sad but isnt catagory
They must fight for dominance!

>>2422869
>>Of course you can stay. I'm not gonna chase you off.

>>2422869
>Well, this fishing thing is kinda exclusive to me and Ken...
This is our gym.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cuMzGq3TnxU

>>2422874
>My friend Yuki is stuck with a nightmare of a son.
I didn't know Ken's Mom was part of Yuki's street gang as a teenager

Calling for
>Of course you can stay. I'm not gonna chase you off.

Writing now.

Lost in the shuffle of all this. Ryoji is smoking again! Guess the stress is getting to him!

>>2422883
Scrubs is so fucking good

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>Of course you can stay. I'm not gonna chase you off.

"You mean it?" Nanami smiles. "Oh boy! Thanks, aniki!"

You immediately point a finger at Nanami. "Nope. No. Don't call me that."

"Call you what, aniki?"

"I immediately regret saying you were like a sister."

"Well, I was happy to hear it, aniki!"

"Good grief..." you mutter.

Ken can't hold back his laughter. "I guess you asked for that, Ryoji!"

You shake your head, as Nanami sits down next to the two of you. "Last time I did something like this, I was too loud and scared away all the fish. I was worried that Ken would hate me for ruining it all for him..."

You smirk. "The point has never been to catch fish. It's just an excuse to sit down and talk."

Ken nods. "We don't even attach bait to the hooks. We sorta just let the fish do their thing. By the way, Ryoji... you've been smoking a lot more lately."

"I have?" you ask.

Nanami ponders. "Now that you mention it... you have! I bet this is your fourth smoke today! No wait, fifth!"

You check the pack. It's empty. "Sixth."

"They make a good point. You haven't smoked this much since... well, since before I died."

"Are you starting to get your taste for them back?" Ken asks. "I know you were just doing it out of habit and to keep the smell on your jacket for Saki... but now you're smoking like you did before Stranger ripped them from your brain."

You shrug. "I guess it's just the stress piling up... or maybe..."

"Maybe what?"

"Maybe I'm hoping that the more of these I smoke, I might be able to remember that time on the school roof," you explain. "Where Saki and I had our first kiss. I didn't care about my old love of these things being ripped from me... hard to miss it when I don't remember it to begin with... but I hate that something so special to the two of us is gone. And I just want to remember it before... well..."

"Before what?" Nanami asks.

>Well... keep it a secret, but I have this ring...
>Uhh... nothing.

>>2422907
>>Well... keep it a secret, but I have this ring...

>>2422907
>>Uhh... nothing.
Shhh, secrets for all

>>2422907
>Uhh... nothing.

>>2422907
>Uhh... nothing.

>>2422912
>Quickly deflect the topic to Nanami writing more RyojiXSaki Adult Romance Novels
Just a quick addon

>>2422907
>>Well... keep it a secret, but I have this ring...
ITS A SECRET TO EVERYONE BUT IM VERY BAD AT SECRETS

>>2422907
>Well... keep it a secret, but I have this ring...

>>2422907
>Uhh... nothing.

Calling for
>Uhh... nothing.

Writing now.

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>Uhh... nothing.

Though they may be your best friends, you don't really want to go around spreading your intentions with Saki just yet. You don't know how long it will be until that "right time" you're waiting for will come, so it'd be a bad idea to tell your friends so soon. Best to leave it be for now.

"Okay..." a confused Ken mutters. "Either way, I really do hope you get your memories back. Your childhood, Nina, that first kiss... but I suppose the only way to do that is to remove The Stranger. If that's even really possible."

"I has to be," you mutter. "But I can't even think about that right now. I need Stranger's powers to deal with these other Archdemons he unleashed. That's my mess to clean up, and I can't really do it without the powers he gives me."

"Those other Archdemons..." Ken mutters. "We've taken care of three... so there's nine left, right? I wonder what they're like..."

"Powerful, I bet!" Nanami exclaims, fencing with the air. "But our cunning bravery and Ken's swift heroism will save the day!"

"My heroism, huh?" Ken mutters. "I don't really know about that. I haven't helped all that much against the demons we've faced so far. I do my best, but... I'm not exactly the biggest hero of the bunch. I'm not even sure what I did to deserve being Saki's second-in-command..."

You sigh. "Ken, don't tell me you're still focused on what that King Thunder idiot said. His whole heroic potential thing was a load of crap."

Nanami nods and pumps her fists. "Yeah! That guy was nothing but a jerk! You don't have to worry about him!"

Ken waves his hand. "I know, I know... but it's not just that. I talk about justice and dishing it out to evil-doers, but... how effective have I really been at that? I dunno, I've always fancied myself a hero... like, THE hero. I guess that was pretty self-centred thinking of me. Even when King Thunder was being such a tremendous jerk, all I did was get jealous and lose my cool. Nanami saved herself, because she's smart and headstrong. And now I'm wondering if I'm actually like I think..."

>Well moping and self-doubt doesn't help, does it? Get it together, Ken.
>Ken, you're the biggest hero I know.
>Are you kidding? You're the protagonist of this story, Ken.

>>2422965
>>Well moping and self-doubt doesn't help, does it? Get it together, Ken.
>>Ken, you're the biggest hero I know.

>>2422965
>>Well moping and self-doubt doesn't help, does it? Get it together, Ken.
I mean honestly in terms of how much they actually do and connection to the major players in the plot...
Saki is probably the most protagonist of all of us

>>2422965
>Well moping and self-doubt doesn't help, does it? Get it together, Ken.

>>2422965
>>Well moping and self-doubt doesn't help, does it? Get it together, Ken.

>>2422965
>Well moping and self-doubt doesn't help, does it? Get it together, Ken.
You could always upgrade from wielding a stick to an actual weapon in combat Ken or maybe wield two sticks?
I dunno just saying

Calling for
>Well moping and self-doubt doesn't help, does it? Get it together, Ken.

Writing now.

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>Well moping and self-doubt doesn't help, does it? Get it together, Ken.

"Ryoji, don't be rude-"

"Am I wrong?" you interrupt Nanami. "Ken, I know you better than anyone. I'm your best friend. So understand that what I'm saying to you is in your best interests... don't be a whiny baby."

"Ryoji..."

You shrug. "I feel like trying out the direct approach. Ken, the only thing holding you back is yourself. The sooner you realise that, the sooner you stop holding yourself back. Nanami, would you have kicked King Thunder in the nuts if Ken hadn't stood up to him?"

Nanami shakes her head. "Probably not. I kinda believed every word he said until you punch him and pointed out the truth."

"Huh..."

"Exactly," you explain. "Ken, stop pretending like you can't do anything. You've helped out a lot, more than most. You're... and it makes me sick to say this... a hero."

Ken pauses. "Really?"

"Of course."

Nanami stretches out her hands. "Ken, I'm going to use my magic pirate powers to read your heroic potential!" Nanami wriggles her figners in front of her boyfriend. "Oooh... my god! This power is off the chart! It's destroying my readings! It's... it's over nine thous-"

Ken bursts into laughter as he takes Nanami by the hand. "Ryoji, look away. I'm gonna kiss her and there's nothing you can do about it."

You smirk and look away, just in time for your phone to start ringing. Saki. You answer, and are greeted with a noise that almost blows out the speaker of your phone.

"RJIYGTTACMOVRHRND"

"Sak, calm down..." you mutter. "Talk slow. With words. You're a person, not a chipmunk."

"Ryoji, you have to come over here," Saki explains after taking a deep breath. "There's something you have to see. It's important. Now!"

You look to Ken and Nanami, and explain that you have to rush over to the school. You do so, arriving at the nurses office, where Saki is standing just outside with... Michiko?

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"Hey, aren't you that trash girl that spies on us?" you ask.

Michiko pouts. "I don't spy, I report! And I only hid in the trash once!"

"I wasn't referencing that by calling you trash girl," you explain. "What the hell has she got that's so important?"

"Ryoji..." Saki mutters with a serious tone. "She was taking photographs by the school gate during the press conference. She knows who's responsible for the assassination attempt. At least, kinda..."

Saki hands you a photo Michiko took just after the shooting, capturing the shooter on a nearby rooftop. "The shooter was mechanical and self-destructed," Saki reminds you. "But what was lost in the explosion is something this picture shows us."

"They're part human," you note. "Look at that flesh. They were some kinda cyborg or something. Not just some drone."

"That's not all!" Michiko boasts. "You'll be thanking me once you notice-"

"Look at his right leg plate," Saki explains, ignoring Michiko. "That's a serial code. We could trace it... find out the person behind the attack. Whoever they are must be real powerful to have some kind of advanced technology... only makes me more confused as to why they would want Wei out of the picture... We should bring this to my grandpa... or Agent White. Somebody!"

>Let's tell Wei. He deserves to know... and I don't trust Agent White.
>Wei might do something stupid if he finds out in his current condition. I hate to say it, but we should bring this to White.
>Wei is still recovering, and I'm not trusting White. We should try to investigate this ourselves.

>>2423052
>>Wei might do something stupid if he finds out in his current condition. I hate to say it, but we should bring this to White.
White is a dick not evil, and if this is some foreign force im sure the goverment would like to know about the exploding cyborg assassin threat

>>2423052
>>Wei is still recovering, and I'm not trusting White. We should try to investigate this ourselves.

>>2423052
>Let's tell Wei. He deserves to know... and I don't trust Agent White.
Trusting any of the agents ever
There's a bad time waiting to happen

>>2423052
>Wei might do something stupid if he finds out in his current condition. I hate to say it, but we should bring this to White.
This is some black ops government level shit, we'll need White to help us out.

>>2423052
>>Let's tell Wei. He deserves to know... and I don't trust Agent White.

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>2423055
>>2423063
>Wei might do something stupid if he finds out in his current condition. I hate to say it, but we should bring this to White.

>>2423057
>>2423071
>Let's tell Wei. He deserves to know... and I don't trust Agent White.

Rolling to break the tie.

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

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>Let's tell Wei. He deserves to know... and I don't trust Agent White.

Saki nods. "I figured you wouldn't trust him... but I do agree with you, Ryoji. Wei deserves to know."

The two of you nod as you move to enter the nurse's office, before Michiko stops you. "Wait! Aren't you going to say something? I helped you people!"

"Uhh sure," you mutter. "Thanks. I think there's a trashcan somewhere around here if you need a place to sleep."

"I... you... rude!" Michiko yells, before storming off.

You and Saki enter the nurse's office, and quickly approach Wei's bed. "Grandpa, we have something to show you..." Saki mutters, before handing him the photo.

"What's this?" Wei asks.

"It's a photo of the guy who shot you," you explain. "They're not all mechanical... which explains why they were able to hurt you. They must have been awakened. But that's not all, they've got a friendly little serial number there so we can trace back to-"

"I know who shot me," Wei interrupts. "With this photo, it's clear as day."

Wow... he processed that information quick. You weren't even done talking.

Wei nods. "Yes... no doubt about it. These mechanical enhancements were made my Shooting Star."

"The company Hoshi's father runs?" Saki asks.

Wei nods. "Yes. They supply weapons and tech to everyone... and that includes the sovereign Safaia nation. This was likely a hit order on behalf of that countries leader, Zenko Ugaki. Carried out by General Masahiro Aoki."

"That's Risa-kun's father..." Saki mutters. "Grandpa, why are you saying all this so casually? I expected you to get mad!"

"Why? There isn't much surprise," Wei mutters. "Once you rule out demons and examine the tech, there was always only one clear answer. It's only confirmed."

"So, what are we going to do about it?" you ask.

"Nothing."

"Nothing?!" Saki exclaims. "Grandpa, we can't just sit back and... and..."

>You're going to be a coward, old man? Figures.
>There's nothing we CAN do, Sak... that's what you meant, right Geezer?

>>2423121
>>There's nothing we CAN do, Sak... that's what you meant, right Geezer?

>>2423121
>There's nothing we CAN do, Sak... that's what you meant, right Geezer?
Saki declares war on a nation

>>2423121
>>There's nothing we CAN do, Sak... that's what you meant, right Geezer?

>>2423121
>There's nothing we CAN do, Sak... that's what you meant, right Geezer?
We can't kill evil warlords Saki, it would make their kids sad.

>>2423121
>>There's nothing we CAN do, Sak... that's what you meant, right Geezer?
>>2423129
I mean im down for DGA: Civil War

Calling for
>There's nothing we CAN do, Sak... that's what you meant, right Geezer?

Writing now.

File: Saki28.png (355 KB, 630x1037)

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>There's nothing we CAN do, Sak... that's what you meant, right Geezer?

"Nothing we can do?" Saki mutters. "What do you-"

"Saki," Wei states. "Do you expect me to declare war on a nation at a time when demons are on the loose? Do you expect Japan to declare war on a nation all for my sake?"

"I..." Saki mutters, before letting out a sigh. "I see. I get it... but there's got to be something we can do!"

"Like what, Sak?" you ask. "This is an unwinnable situation. No wonder they had the balls to waltz right up to the school and shoot the old geezer. What are we supposed to do about it?"

Saki hangs her head low. "We... we could at least look into why they shot Wei? Why would the leader of our neighbouring country want Wei gone? How does what we're doing affect him? Affect him negatively for that matter? It's still a mystery."

"We'll look into that, Saki," Wei explains. "We'll come up with an answer. But we simply can't march up and declare them our enemies. We have more important matters to focus on. Still... if anyone thinks they can come here and threaten the lives of my staff, my students, my family... I will be ready for them."

Wei leans back in his bed and motions for the door. Seems he wants to be left alone for the time being. The two of you step outside of Tekina's office as Saki nervously clutches at her sleeves. "An assassin from Safaia..."

"Crazy, right?" you mutter. "I'm so caught up in this demon stuff I forgot that the people can be plenty crazy as well. So Sak, if you've got some spare time, how about we hide out in Takeshi's broom closet and-"

"Ryoji, get your head out of the gutter!" Saki exclaims. "I... I know you're trying to take my mind off things... but I'm still absorbed in this mystery. Maybe if I spoke to Anri-kun, we could do some investigating. Or maybe Miyoko knows... sorry, Ryoji. But I have to check this out."

"Go nuts," you reply. A kiss is shared, and Saki runs off in the direction of the Class 1 dorms to contact Anri.

"Where's Saki-senpai going so quick?" Kaz's voice asks from behind you. You turn around, to see him accompanied by his sister, and her large boyfriend. "Something up?"

"None of your business kouhai," you reply. "Hey, you want to grab a bite to eat?"

"A bite to eat?" Kaz mutters. "Why?"

"Just because," you note. "Not like you have anything better to do, right?"

"Go ahead, Kaz!" Kiriko laughs. "Mom and I are having tea with Mayu, so you can have tea with your senpai!"

"He's not my senpai!" Kaz protests.

"Shu's got the right idea," you point out.

Roka nods. "If you're not taking it, I might head for lunch with him. I'm starving."

"That's because you forgot to bring lunch with you on that trip!" Kiriko lectures.

"Hey, I had marshmallows by the fire!" Roka protests.

Kiriko huffs. "Don't remind me that I wasn't there for that!"

>Hurry up Kouhai, let's go.
>Well, if you're not coming I'll take the big guy with me.
>Both of you, come on. I don't have all day.

>>2423191
>Both of you, come on. I don't have all day.

>>2423191
>Both of you, come on. I don't have all day.
I will not be denied a Roka flashback. Not with this KT business also happening. That and the three of them together sounds like a cool dynamic.

>>2423191
>>Both of you, come on. I don't have all day.

>>2423191
>>Both of you, come on. I don't have all day.

>>2423191
>Hurry up Kouhai, let's go.

>>2423191
>>Both of you, come on. I don't have all day.
It's time to see which of the three is the strong dumbest

Calling for
>Both of you, come on. I don't have all day.

Writing now.

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>Both of you, come on. I don't have all day.

The two juniors look to each-other, and then begin to follow you at once. "Damn, gonna need a nickname for you, now..." you mutter as you look at Roka. "Okay... Red."

"Red?" Roka raises his eyebrow.

"Yeah," you mention. "You're the guy who dresses as Red Mask, right?"

"I-I'm not Red Mask!" Roka denies, before picking up the pace and walking ahead of the two of you.

Kaz sighs. "Why aren't I Red? I wear a lot of red..."

You smirk. "Yeah, but you're already my kouhai. Why would you be anything else?"

"I really hate you, Ryoji..."

"Nah, you look up to me," you continue to smirk. "And I know you missed me on that little trip of yours. I'm sure of it. You must have been all lost and sad and depressed without me."

"Actually..." Kaz mutters. "We kinda ended up having a great time. None of us could have expected it... but we did. Even Roka had fun with us... in his own way."

You look ahead at Roka. "What's his story anyway?" you ask. "Doesn't seem to have any friends, seems like a rude dumbass... but he's dating your sister, and he dresses up in a goofy costume and pretends he's a superhero? What's his deal?"

Kaz shrugs. "No idea... I'm almost interested in finding out."

File: Kid_Roka.png (175 KB, 180x606)

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>YEARS AGO

“What are you doing here?”

The young black haired boy looks to his side as he sees another kid adorned in a toy mask. The kid points his finger at the person. “Stop right there! The Red Mask is here to stop you!”

“Yo Thunder, who is this?” one of the boys cronies asks.

The boy tilts his head back and sighs. “This is my little retarded cousin. He's such a braindead moron, he doesn't even know how to read. Isn't that right, Roka?”

“T-that's not true!” Roka denies. “A-and shut up! I'm not Roka, I'm Red Mask!”

Roka's cousin snorts in derision, as Roka continues. “What are you doing with this girl?”

“We're just talking.”

“A little rough for talking, don't you think?” Roka mutters, looking to the frightened looking middle-schooler cornered at the wall by King Thunder. “How about you step away?”

Thunder laughs. “Oh, little baby Roka thinks I listen to him! You hear that boys?”

Roka takes a step forward. “I'm warning you, Seiya...”

That pushes his cousins buttons too far, King Thunder booting the young Roka in the face, knocking the mask off his head as the plastic helmet lands and cracks on the ground. “MY NAME IS KING THUNDER! GET IT RIGHT SHITHEAD!” he snaps, before being held back by his goons. He shakes his head and calms down, before snapping his fingers. “Come on, let's go. He's not worth it. Besides, that little bastard has the strength of a donkey.”

The group leaves as Roka picks himself up, dusts himself up and approaches the girl. “Are you okay-”

The girl then pushes Roka away. “Get away from me, weirdo!”

Roka falls back, raising his eyebrow. “What the heck, lady?! I was helping you!”

“You didn't help me at all!” the girl adjust her blazer. “We were just flirting!”

“Flirting?” Roka protests. “He was being so rough! He had you cornered, he was pulling at your clothes-”

“Maybe he was a little rough,” the girl explains. “But I didn't have a problem with it!”

“You looked scared-”

“-And now I look like an idiot!” the girl opines. “Having some junior student in a toy helmet try to 'rescue' me? Oh, I'm going to be a laughingstock! And there goes any chances with the most popular guy in school! You ruined everything!”

The girl runs off as Roka walks over to his toy helmet. Yeah, that crack can't be repaired... Roka lets out a sigh as he leans against the wall. He thought he was helping people, being a hero... but rescued people aren't that angry about it. Roka notices the way everyone is looking at him, they way they whisper and laugh, and decides to head home. He just doesn't understand... and he likely never will.

File: Roka01.png (274 KB, 842x1280)

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>PRESENT DAY

The three of you make it into town where you step into a nice ramen place. You grab a seat towards the back of the restaurant. Kaz and Roka sit on opposite ends of the table, as far apart as possible. They don't get along, do they? And yet, they're connected by Kaz's sister... the only person in the school it seems who likes the guy. Interesting.

"Hey, senpai..." Roka mutters. "Why'd you invite both of us?"

You shrug. "Because you're my kouhais, and I had to grab lunch with someone."

"Why don't you just call Kosuke-senpai or one of your friends?" Kaz points out.

"I usually just go with whoevers around me. I like to wing my plans and just go along with the flow, don't you?"

"I tend to overthink stuff like that..." Kaz mutters.

Roka nods. "And I underthink."

Right... well, while they're here, might as well throw a topic their way. These kids are awkward as hell, so it's on you to keep the conversation going... not like that's anything new.

>Ask Roka about Kiriko
>Ask Roka about Red Mask
>Ask Kaz about Mayu
>Ask Kaz about Namika

>>2423247
>>Ask Roka about Red Mask
>>Ask Kaz about Namika

>>2423247
>>Ask Roka about Kiriko
>>Ask Kaz about Mayu
Roka also has many reasons to be sad but isn't
PERHAPS THIS IS A RUNNING THEME OF SOME SORT
MAYBE SOMETHING TO DO WITH HEROICS
I DUNNO
JUST A FEELING

Also TEASE THEM

>>2423247
>Ask Roka about Kiriko
>Ask Kaz about Mayu

>>2423247
>Ask Kaz about Namika

>>2423247
>Ask Kaz about Namika
Got to have him put in a good word for us.

>>2423247
>Ask Roka about Kiriko
>Ask Kaz about Mayu
>Ask Kaz about Namika

Roka, you little scamp! I knew your backstory wouldn't let me down.

Did make me feel sad though.

Calling for
>Ask Kaz about Namika

Writing now.

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>Ask Kaz about Namika

"So, kouhai..." you note. "Your mommy is the new Vice Principal, right?"

"I knew you were gonna bring this up..." Kaz mutters. "I guess you'll want to tease me about that, huh?"

"Huh?" you raise an eyebrow. "Why would I do that?"

"Because... it's embarrassing," Kaz explains. "Exactly the kind of thing you'd tease me over."

You shake you head. "Not at all, kouhai. It's pretty cool that your mom's the vice principal. I'd be stoked to see my mom and dad more often than I do now."

"Oh..." Kaz mutters. "I guess you're right... I... wait a minute, are you teasing me by making me feel guilty for feeling embarrassed?"

"Kouhai, don't be ridiculous," you smirk. "What kind of psychological mastermind do you take me for?"

"Is... is this teasing?" Kaz stammers. "I-I don't know!"

"But seriously," you comment. "Saki's been telling me about meetings with your mom. She seems like a nice lady, and this is coming from someone who likes to rebel against authority on principle. But when a sweet and kind lady is involved... my heart's not in it."

Kaz raises an eyebrow. "Are you saying that you'd be terrorising my mother if she were stricter?"

"Probably. At least a couple pranks."

Kaz scratches his head. "Right..."

Your attention then turns to Roka. "Hey Red, what do you have in your hands?"

Roka holds out his hands and reveals some torn up pieces of paper. "My letter..." Roka mutters.

You nod. "Right, I remember. Shu delivered that letter you wrote to King Thunder... and he ripped it up. Without looking."

"What did the letter say?" Kaz asks.

"It doesn't matter," Roka explains. "It was for my cousin and my cousin alone... and he didn't want to hear it."

You nod. "Damn, that must piss you off. You seem like the kinda guy who wants to beat the crap out of whoever disrespects them like that."

Roka shakes his head. "Nah..."

"What do you mean, nah?" Kaz asks.

"I just feel bad for the fly," Roka explains. "Kiriko spent hours in my dorm, stayed up all night, helping me write this and put it together. She proofread it, gave me advice, helped me along... turns out I wasted her time. Stupid... so stupid! Agh! I should have figured he wouldn't take me seriously. They never do."

>That Kiriko sounds like a real keeper.
>You're... a hell of a lot less brutish than I would have guessed.
>Hey, I'm sure people take you seriously. My kouhai does, right Kouhai?

>>2423303
>>That Kiriko sounds like a real keeper.
>>But what's with calling her Fly thats weird Red

>>2423303
>You're... a hell of a lot less brutish than I would have guessed.

>>2423306
>>2423303
>>>That Kiriko sounds like a real keeper.
>>>But what's with calling her Fly thats weird Red
I'll Back this

Calling for
>That Kiriko sounds like a real keeper.
>But what's with calling her Fly thats weird Red

Writing now.

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>That Kiriko sounds like a real keeper.
>But what's with calling her Fly that's weird Red

Roka shrugs. "She's called fly because she buzzes around me all the time and makes annoying noise. She calls me ape because I'm big dumb and angry. They're nicknames. Don't couples have that for eachother? I don't see the problem."

"Pet names are supposed to be cute," Kaz points out. "Flies aren't cute."

"Neither are apes," Roka retorts. "It's our thing. I don't care if you think it's weird."

You shrug. "Well, either way, looks like you've got a real keeper."

Roka nods. "Yeah... I think I have. I don't really get why she's with me, but... I'm not going to complain. I'm happy."

"Ugh..." Kaz mutters.

"You got a problem?!" Roka gets fired up.

"Red, Kouhai, don't start a fight," you order them. "Food is coming. Enjoy food. Like civilised men."

That's enough to calm Roka down at least. Kaz is also fine with being civilised and eating with you and Roka. The three of you dig into your ramen as you tease Kaz some more, mainly about Mayu. That's a classic. He also fills you in on the events of the beach trip, and the lies he's had to tell Act.

"So when Act's around, I gotta tease you like Nook's your girlfriend?" you ponder. "Yeah... I can do that."

"I don't get why you don't just tell her the truth," Roka points out.

Kaz sighs. "That's because you're overly blunt with everything. If I upset Act Nakatoni, she just might kill me..."

Roka shakes his head. "No way. Mayu will protect you. So will the fly... and so will Red Mask."

"You would?" Kaz asks.

"I didn't say I would!" Roka yells. "I said Red Mask would!"

"Huh..." Kaz mutters. "Thanks. But that doesn't matter. I think Act could take on all of class 1, well... single-handedly. No pun intended."

"She would have to," Roka explains. "Because she only has one arm."

"Yes... that was the pun," Kaz sighs. "Went over your head, did it?"

"Probably."

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The three of you pay for your food and step out into the street, making your way back to the academy. As you arrive at the gates, you see a girl with a megaphone by the gates, yelling into it. "NO MORE KING THUNDER! NO MORE KING THUNDER!"

Kaz approaches her with a smile. "Hey Konami, what are you doing today?"

Konami smiles back. "Hi Kazu-chan! I'm protesting the arrival of King Thunder! That phony, overblown windbag of a phony actor... it makes me sick that he's glorified in the media!"

"Hey, she's alright..." Roka mutters to himself.

"That's all well and good..." Kaz points out. "But King Thunder was here yesterday. You missed him."

"Oh..." Konami mutters. "Oh well! Why don't we hang out?"

"We were heading back to the dorms," Kaz explains.

Konami pauses. "Well... can I join? This is one of your safe days or whatever... Kiriko mentioned that. So it's safe for me to be on your campus, right?"

"That'd be up to his senpai," you explain. "Me."

"Good, cause I can't decide..." Kaz whispers to himself.

"How do I know you're not gonna try to dig up dirt on the academy while you're inside?"

Konami throws her fingers in the air, some kind of scouts honour pose. "I promise I won't! I just want to hang out with my old friends! I swear on my life that I won't betray your trust, and if I do, may lightning strike me down and may you punch me one thousand times! So... can I? Please please please?"

>Sure. It'll piss the agents off... so there's no reason not to.
>Nah. Beat it, kid. Can't trust you.

>>2423376
>Nah. Beat it, kid. Can't trust you.
It's bad enough Michiko seems to get a free pass, plus knowing our luck we'll probably trip and cut our arm off or something in front of Konami.

>>2423376
>Sure. It'll piss the agents off... so there's no reason not to.
I am fine with either really. But I am curious where this would go.

>>2423376
>Nah. Beat it, kid. Can't trust you.

>>2423376
>>Sure. It'll piss the agents off... so there's no reason not to.
FUCK THE SYSTEM WOOOO

>>2423376
>Nah. Beat it, kid. Can't trust you.

Calling for
>Nah. Beat it, kid. Can't trust you.

Writing now.

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>Nah. Beat it, kid. Can't trust you.

"Oh..." Konami mutters, disappointed. "I guess I'll see you around, Kazu-chan..."

Konami wanders of, her head hanging low, as you shake your own head. "I hate laying down the law. I'm the kinda guy who likes to break the rules... but in this case I can't trust her."

"I'd trust her..." Kaz mutters. "She's my friend from middle school."

"Well Kouhai, then maybe you shouldn't have let me answer for you?" you point out. "Show some initiative. There's your senpai lesson for today."

Kaz grumbles as he makes his way up to the main building and towards the dorms. Roka follows behind, at a distance. They share a destination, but they sure as hell don't want to share the journey.

You make your way back to your own dorms, opening your door to find Saki sitting on your bed with a smile.

"I have a surprise for you..." Saki says in a sing-song voice.

You smirk. "So you regret not taking me up on that broom closet offer-"

"Head out of gutter!" Saki commands. "I'm not lewd! No, the surprise is this letter."

Saki hands you a letter that you seem to have missed this morning, addressed to you. You open up the envelope and take one look at it. It's handwritten, in a child's writing.

Dear Ryoji, you saved me, my mom, my dad, and Pickle. You are my hero. Thanks.

At the bottom is a crude drawing of a child, his parents, and a pet dog. You raise an eyebrow as you look to Saki. "What's this?"

"It was addressed from that village you saved from The Drifter," Saki explains. "I figured it'd be a thank you letter. Seems that no matter how hard you try... you're someone's hero."

"It's so sweet, Ryoji... why are you so resistant to this?"

"Saki... Nina..." you mutter.

"Nina's lecturing you on this too?" Saki smiles. "Come on, Ryoji. Admit it... you don't have to keep up the tough guy act around me."

>Alright fine... I guess I'm a hero.
>I don't want to be a hero...
>I got Nina killed. I let those demons loose. I can't call myself a hero, Sak.

>>2423424
>>Alright fine... I guess I'm a hero.

I guess they were in a bit of a Pickle.

>>2423424
>>I got Nina killed. I let those demons loose. I can't call myself a hero, Sak.
RYOJI IS SAD AND THATS WHY HE IS NOT A HERO STOP BEING SAD

>>2423376

>Sure. It'll piss the agents off... so there's no reason not to.

Basically what >>2423390 said.

>>2423424
>>I don't want to be a hero...

>>2423424
>I got Nina killed. I let those demons loose. I can't call myself a hero, Sak.
We need an exact body count for Yami's rampage, then once we personally save an equal number we can start being heroic.

>>2423431
>Dear Ryoji, you saved me, my mom, my dad, and Pickle
>Pickle
Oh shit this kid has a Pet DevilJho

>>2423424
>Alright fine... I guess I'm a hero.

I am sad we shut down Kaz, but oh well.

>>2423430
Oh, I'm late.

>>2423424
>I don't want to be a hero... feels like that means I've got to be someone I'm not.

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>>2423434
Actual canon picture of Pickle

>>2423424
>I got Nina killed. I let those demons loose. I can't call myself a hero, Sak.

Calling for
>I got Nina killed. I let those demons loose. I can't call myself a hero, Sak.

Writing now.

>>2423446
Saki please slap this man. Nina, ghost slap him. This Ryoji seems a bit broken from how I remember him.

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>I got Nina killed. I let those demons loose. I can't call myself a hero, Sak.

"Ryoji..." Saki mutters. "What happened to Nina... what happened to those cities... it wasn't your fault."

"Sure feels like my fault," you reply. "I don't know, Sak... I just wonder. If I had just jumped the wall that day, left this place and never came back. All this wouldn't have happened..."

"No, worse would have happened!" Saki explains. "We never would have made it out of the Endless Night without you! Without you to guide us, none of us would have been able to attain their archangels. Without you... I wouldn't have found the strength to go against my parents, the strength to become the leader I am today. Without you..."

Saki sniffles as she begins to get emotional. "Ryoji... you're not to blame for what happened to me. I could never blame you..."

Saki reaches up and cups your face in her hands. "You might not want to call yourself a hero, Ryoji... but you can't stop me. Because you're my hero, Ryoji. You're mine."

"Saki..." you mutter. You don't say anything else. You just hold her tight. She holds you tight as well... before backing you up against the door. "Sak, what are you doing-"

Click.

The door's locked, and Saki gives you that look. You can't help but smile as you pick her up, her big and strong hero, and toss her onto the bed.

"Ah, so that's whats happening now... I'll look away during your private time. Doo doo doo..."

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Later, as the two of you sit up in bed, Saki adjusting her bra as you smoke, the two of you head a noise from the courtyard. The hell... it sounds like a megaphone. You and Saki look to each-other and get dressed as you head out to the courtyard to investigate. You're not alone either, and in fact are joined by Isamu, Ken, Nanami, Kazuma and Roka.

Then you notice the sense of the disturbance. Konami, with her megaphone... but her words are a bit different from before.

"WE LOVE KING THUNDER! WE LOVE KING THUNDER!"

You pause. "Hang on, weren't you protested King Thunder earlier?"

"What?!" Konami gasps. "Why would I ever protest that beautiful stallion of a man? He's the greatest hero who ever lived, and so handsome too! Oh... I wish I could be his wife!"

"Is she drunk?" Roka asks.

Kaz shakes his head. "No way, Konami isn't the kind of person to get drunk... I'm pretty sure. But she does seem out of it. It's weird."

Konami smiles. "Nothing wrong about sharing my love for the man who rules my dreams! Do you think if I met him he would-"

"Okay, that's enough..." Ken mutters. "Saki, there's definitely something off here."

Saki nods. "No doubt about it... it could be nothing, but maybe you'd want to investigate King Thunder."

"I'll join," you add. "Hell, the six of us can investigate King Thunder. Saki, we'll let you know if anything suspicious is going on, then we can call in the cavalry."

"Good thinking," Saki nods. "Hopefully it's nothing. I'll hold down the fort here until you have answers."

With that, you plant a kiss on the forehead of Saki as Ken leads you to the next train. King Thunder... there could be a ton of reasons for Konami's strange behaviour. It's just in your nature to assume demons responsible for every single oddity in your life. Besides, King Thunder is a dumbass jerk, but not even he is stupid enough to make a deal with a demon, right? Wait... you were stupid enough to make a deal with a demon...

>A few hours ago

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fIcySkw6y0

"Welcome back, studmuffin!"

King Thunder exits his personal helicopter a broken man. Being greeted by the large breasted model as he arrives in his home doesn't fix his spirits, limping in like a sad pathetic pup. Yaoyorozu continues to smile, but can clearly tell something is off. "What happened, Thunder boy?"

"No, it's not right..." Thunder mutters to himself, ignoring the model. "It's not right! How could she reject me?! How could she pick him?! Nobody does that..."

"Of course not!" Yaoyorozu assures him. "Silly billy! You're King Thunder!"

"That's right, I'm King Thunder!"

"Everyone loves you!"

"EVERYONE LOVES ME!" King Thunder cackles maniacally. "THEY ALL LOVE ME! I'M... I'M THE GREATEST HERO! I AM! THEY... I.... I... I wish they all loved me!"

King Thunder drops to his knees in defeat and despair, as a ghostly voice rings in his head.

"THAT CAN BE ARRANGED...

END OF EPISODE 15

>>2423525
Fucking Thunder Cuck

File: King Thunder03.jpg (1.11 MB, 956x1500)

1.11 MB JPG

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

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

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https://twitter.com/bookerman32

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https://discord.gg/yz7sDra

Thanks for playing folks! My weekend is busy, the next thread will therefore be up this coming Monday! Stay tuned for any updates!

>Player Question
Welp, it's official. What's your predictions for the new Archdemon in town?

>>2423540
>PQ
The Loved?
The Charmer again?
The Chad?

Anyway you go about it this means one thing.
Thunder the ultimate Cuck

>>2423540
OH Cloud Boom Peasant went from disgusting trash to literal demon
ohhhh nooooooo
Thanks for running Booker

File: Katsuyori02.png (364 KB, 427x552)

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>Bonus Scene

"Hey Kats, which looks better? This neck scarf? Or this one?"

Katsuyori looks up from his playing cards as Risa casually models the two scarves. "I'm not expert princess," he states. "But aren't those the same colour?"

"No way!" Risa protests. "This is a lighter shade of purple."

"I don't see it," Katsuyori shrugs. "Besides, I'm not the sort of guy you should ask for fashion advice."

"I'm not surprised by that," Risa notes. I think you've been wearing the exact same clothes since you got here. Did you even clean them?"

Katsuyori chuckles. "Come on now, princess. I'm not that unhygienic."

Risa looks at Katsuyori, and places a finger to her chin. She ponders over him tilting her head as she examines him. "Now that I think about it... maybe Ninsei would let you borrow some of his clothes... maybe Gado's more your size..."

"Why would I need to borrow anyone's clothes?"

Risa scoffs. "Why else? Me and the girls are going out for a meal. Hence the scarf deliberation. Do you even listen when I talk?"

"No, but go on."

Risa glares. "I was just thinking that if you're going to follow and 'guard' me on a trip into town, you should probably look at least presentable."

"As a guard, I should be looking practical," Katsuyori smirks. "I don't think a sweater is going to add to my threatening presence."

"What threatening presence?" Risa teases. "Come on, let's get you some clothes."

Katsuyori looks away. "Actually... that won't be necessary. I won't be joining you out."

"Huh?" Risa raises an eyebrow. "Why not?"

"Het, don't look a gift horse in the mouth!" Katsuyori chuckles. "I think I can give you a break from me watching over you for one night, can't I? Don't take it for granted. Also..."

Katsuyori looks to his pack of cards. "If I pull out a diamond or a spade, you wear the scarf on the right. Hearts or clubs, the on the left."

Katsuyori pops out a random card from the centre of the deck and looks at it. "Six of clubs. The one on the left."

Risa pauses. "You knew what card you were taking out, didn't you?"

"Of course, I have the order memorised," Katsuyori points out. "But I also don't care."

Risa smiles as she ties the neckscarf around her before heading towards the door... and stopping. "Before I head out... we need to talk, Kats."

"Oh boy, here comes the confession of love..."

"Not that!" Risa exclaims. "Kats... yesterday, you saw jumping in the ocean as a preferable option to continuing your work with my father..."

"I remember," Katsuyori replies. "You gave me a pretty nasty punch for that one."

Risa sighs. "I know. I was shocked, and I was angry... but I can't just move past that. I can't just ignore it. You saw suicide as your best way out... Kats..."

File: Risa10.png (1.15 MB, 700x900)

1.15 MB PNG

Risa slowly approaches the mercenary and gently reaches out her hand, hesitating to place it on him as her eyes begin to well up. "Hey now, don't be shedding tears for my sake..." Katsuyori replies in a calm manner.

"I know your situation is dire and grim and... and you'd prefer to put and a smile and joke than face the harsh reality... and I'm not going to stop you from letting that be your reason to cope."

"You're starting to sound all serious-"

"I am serious," Risa explains. "I just want you to know... you're not alone. There are people who care about you, who have your back. Friends... and it's not just that. I know it seems bleak, I know it seems hopeless, but... I promise you, I will get you out of this mess."

"Don't do that," Katsuyori mutters. "Don't make promises you can't keep."

"I don't!" Risa exclaims, lunging forward and clasping his hands in hers. "I don't make promises I can't keep. And I promise I will help you, I promise you'll never have to go back to working for my father. I promise you'll be a free, happy man. I promise."

Katsuyori lets out a sigh. "That's a lot of promises... you've really got a big, sappy heart princess. It almost makes me want to believe you, ya'know?"

"Kats..."

"I'll be fine," he smiles warmly. "Take care of yourself tonight. I'll hang out with the guys, we'll play cards, have fun, probably talk about you gals' cup sizes..."

"Pervert."

"But thanks..." Katsuyori adds. "It feels good having someone looking out for me. Weird... but good."

Risa smiles in turn. "Okay... glad we could talk. Take care, Kats. I'm sure you'll come up with new ways to annoy me when I get back."

"Already working on 'em," Kats grins as Risa leaves the room. As soon as the door clicks shut, the merc lets out a sigh and places his hand to his chest. His heart... it was racing like crazy from the moment she touched his hand. He was lucky she didn't notice how much he was starting to lose his cool. Still... what's with that? His heart begins to beat wildly just thinking about that interaction, the care she showed,t he way she looked into his eyes...

"Shit..." Katsuyori mutters. "That's not good."

END OF SCENE