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“Ah, Tajiri. Good to see you.”

As he grades year end papers, Akihito takes a sip of a canned coffee from the school’s vending machines. Reiji sits at his desk, writing notes as Ken enters the room.

“That can’t be good for your heart, sensei,” Ken points out, taking a glance at the coffee.

Akihito chuckles. “I know full well what isn’t good for your heart. What brings you here, Tajiri? The school year is over. You should be taking a break. The third year graduation is tomorrow, you know.”

Ken nods. “I know. I… just have had a lot on my mind.”

Akihito’s face dims. “You’re worried about the freshmen, aren’t you?”

“Well, of course.”

Akihito lets out a sigh. “We all are. It’s terrible business… but we’ve all been through worse, have we not? Even the first years have already pulled through some of the worst this world and the next have to offer.”

“Sanada-san is still in contact with Takeshi,” Reiji notes. “He’s even tracked some of them down, it’s just a matter of herding the rest… they’ll be second years soon, and they’ve advanced quicker than we ever did. They aren’t the fresh faces anymore, they’ll be able to handle themselves.”

Ken looks to Reiji with a weak smile. “I know… it’s just… hard not to worry. Still… that’s not exactly the reason I came here.”

“Oh, then why?” Akihito replies. “You know, I expected you to be with Shida right now. He said he was planning something after the end of classes for the year. I would put a stop to it… but even that delinquent deserves some kind of reprieve at a time like this, right?”

“Yeah… Ryoji can wait a little,” Ken admits. “I wanted to request something.”

“What is it?”
Ken looks to Reiji, then back to his teacher. “Yasukawa is here because he’s set on track to study at a university abroad next year, correct?”

Reiji pushes up his glasses. “Correct. It may seem shameful to leave this town behind… but it is something I have always wished to accomplish.”

Ken nods. “Well… I would like to study abroad as well.”

Akihito looks at the young student, somewhat taken aback at first, before giving a nod. “I see. Very well, Tajiri. What course were you…?”

“Law.”

“Of course,” Akihito smiles. “I’ll set you on that path right away.”

Reiji adjusts his glasses further. “I wasn’t aware this is what you wished.”

“I’ve been mulling it over for a while…” Ken replies.

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“Hmm… and what do Fuji-san and Shida-san think of this?”

“Nanami and I talked it over quite a bit…” Ken replies. “She thinks I shouldn’t hold myself back here out of sentimentality. After all, it will only be a few years away.”

“And Shida?”

“Ryoji…” Ken mutters. “He… doesn’t know yet. I’ll be telling him later.”

Ken exits the room, taking a deep sigh. “Ryoji…” he mutters to himself, as he clutches a piece of paper in his hands. The item that spurned his ultimate decision.

A note. From his father. With a simple message.

“Hey Kid, I’m out. Can’t wait to see you.”

>Meanwhile

“Hey Ryoji! Toss me one of those burgers!”

You look to Akio and shake your head as you stand over the barbecue grill. “You’ve already had four. We’re still waiting on people to turn up. Besides, we should save some in case the freshmen are back from their incident today.”

“C’mon!” Akio protests. “You let Kobashi have two!”

Saki folds her arms, hanging her head low in shame. “I’ll have you know that a year ago I wasted a perfectly good burger offered to me by Ryoji. This was my way of making up for it.”

Rini scoffs. “Yeah, I’m sure it was just the goodness of your heart. I saw you devour that thing like a wild animal!”

Saki turns bright red, as she tries to hide her face. “No, I refuse to be labelled a glutton!”

“So you’re saying you don’t want any more?” You smirk.

“Ah… well… I didn’t say THAT…”

As Saki squirms, you can’t help but chuckle to yourself. Teasing accomplished.

“[color=blue]Ryoji, it’s good to see you keeping spirits high.[/color]”

“Nothing to it, Nina…”

“[color=blue]Ryoji, I’m literally inside your mind. I know you’re worried about the end of the year, about Class 1… about the remaining Archdemons…[/color]”

“Everyone’s worried,” you reply. “Someone’s gotta put on a brave face.”

You look at the door to the roof. You’ve been spreading word of a barbecue up here for the end of a pretty crappy year, while most of class 2 are here, there’s still a few running late. Ken mentioned he had to talk with Akihito about his studies, as did Reiji… and as for the other classes…

You keep looking, expecting Maro or Kaz to walk through. Your senpai is busy preparing for his graduation tomorrow. And your kouhai… well, you have to hope he’s okay.

You look around the party that is already here. Akemi is still trying to get the karaoke machine to work… you have no idea how it got busted since the last time you used it. Nanami is waiting around for Ken… she seems lacking in her usual energy. Meanwhile Saki is trying to hide the fact that she’s munching on a third burger.

>I should help Akemi out with the machine… if she even needs that.
>Nanami could use some company while we wait on Ken, I’ll speak with her.
>Well, I can’t just let Saki go unteased like that. What kind of fiancé would I be?

>>4601226
>Nanami could use some company while we wait on Ken, I’ll speak with her.
We finally did it, after all these years we got justice for Burger-kun.

>>4601226
>I should help Akemi out with the machine… if she even needs that.
Yay, more DGA.

>>4601231
Now if only we could do the same for Devilsaur.

>>4601226
>Nanami could use some company while we wait on Ken, I’ll speak with her.
That karaoke machine will stay broken for eternity if it stops Mai singing.

>>4601233
One day anon, his time will come.

>>4601226
>>Nanami could use some company while we wait on Ken, I’ll speak with her.

>>4601226
>>Nanami could use some company while we wait on Ken, I’ll speak with her.

Calling for
>Nanami could use some company while we wait on Ken, I’ll speak with her.

Writing now.

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>Nanami could use some company while we wait on Ken, I’ll speak with her.

You grab from the small table of soda cans, before making your way over to Nanami and presenting it to her. "Here you go, Captain."

Nanami gives a small smile, adjusting her hat as she accepts it. "Thanks, First Mate!"

As she takes the can off your hands, you examine her close. "Something up?"

Nanami pauses. "Uhh... have you spoken to Ken today?"

"Not yet."

"Then nothing's up!" Nanami exclaims, letting out a nervous laugh. "Heh heh..."

Well, that's not suspicious at all...

"Is something wrong with Ken?" you ask.

Nanami shakes her head. "That's not for me to tell you."

"Not for..."

"M-moving on!" Nanami exclaims. "What are you going to do over your break?"

You shrug. "The usual. Visit my parents... begrudgingly visit Saki's family... another fishing trip with Wei... Saki also wants me to help prepare her senior presentation for the new freshmen. How about you?"

Nanami beams a big smile. "Glad you asked! I'll be visiting back home too! I haven't seen my brother and sister since... ehh... Summer. Wow... that's been a while..."

"We're busy people," you reply. "What else?"

Nanami nods. "I've got a few auditions lined up! It's about time I finally got my acting career started!"

>You rarely talk about your siblings. Here I was thinking I was your big brother figure...
>You'll be a star someday, Nanami. Don't forget us when you're famous.
>Heh... we really have grown up a lot, haven't we?

>>4601269
>>You rarely talk about your siblings. Here I was thinking I was your big brother figure...

>>4601269
>>You rarely talk about your siblings. Here I was thinking I was your big brother figure...

>>4601269
>You rarely talk about your siblings. Here I was thinking I was your big brother figure...
A real big brother would've stolen Nanami's hat back in Season 1, we're sitting in the worst timeline.

>>4601269
>You rarely talk about your siblings. Here I was thinking I was your big brother figure...

>>4601269
>You'll be a star someday, Nanami. Don't forget us when you're famous.

Calling for
>You rarely talk about your siblings. Here I was thinking I was your big brother figure...

Writing now.

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>You rarely talk about your siblings. Here I was thinking I was your big brother figure...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIo4Mwv85V8

"Jealous?" Nanami teases, placing her hand on her hip and leaning forward with a smug grin. "Don't you worry, I only have younger siblings! You're still the big bro around here!"

You pause. "Why don't you talk about them often?"

Nanami gives a brief moment of hesitation, leaning back. "Well... I don't talk about myself all that often, do I? Only makes sense they don't come up. Nanami Fuji might have a little brother and a little sister, but Captain Nanami is a lone soul, an singular warrior out on the vast sea!"

"But not alone," you remind her.

"I know..." Nanami replies. "Not alone..."

You're interrupted by the sound of a crash, turning to see Akemi tangled in cables and lying atop a toppled karaoke machine. "Looks like even our tech genius is having trouble..." you sigh.

"I'll give her a hand!" Nanami replies, rushing to assist Akemi.

You turn at the sound of the roof door creaking open, with a red-faced Ken huffing for air. "Sorry I'm late, everyone!" he speaks through gathered breaths. "Did I miss out on the burgers?"

"MPH, Nurt at awwll", Saki attempts to mumble a coherent reply with a mouth full of patty. "Oh no... I'm becoming an addict..."

Ken quickly makes a beeline through the rooftop and over to you. "Well look who decided to show up," you tease. "Are you sure there aren't more studies you need to be getting to?"

"Hey... can we talk?" Ken replies. "I... don't want to interrupt the party."

Huh... that's odd. Something seems off about Ken.

You follow your friend into the stairwell, where you wait for him to collect his thoughts. "What's up?"

Ken pauses. "I don't know how to put this..." he replies.

"Ken Tajiri, lost for words?" you joke. "Now I've seen everything."

"Ryoji..." he mutters. "I was just speaking with Akihito sensei... I've made a decision."

You smirk. "Let me guess, you decided to sign up for that homework club he proposed so he wouldn't feel bad-"

"Ryoji, I've decided that for university... I'll be studying abroad," he replies. "With our last year coming up, I've been thinking through it a lot and... that's what I decided."

... Oh.

So that's why Nanami was acting odd earlier...

Ken shakes his head. "The idea doesn't come easy. I feel guilty about leaving here even if my last year is done... that I'm abandoning some sort of moral responsibility. But I'm thinking about my future... how I can continue to help people after I leave this place."

>And you can't do that in Japan? Think it through, dude.
>That's... cool. Whatever, I'm hardly going to begrudge anyone trying to bail on this dump.
>You sure? I always figured we'd stay dormmates through college.

>>4601309
>>That's... cool, but
>>You sure? I always figured we'd stay dormmates through college

>>4601309
>That's... cool. Whatever, I'm hardly going to begrudge anyone trying to bail on this dump.
Nina - "Ryoji, will you please stop screaming in my ear?"

>>4601309
>That's... cool. Whatever, I'm hardly going to begrudge anyone trying to bail on this dump.
Good thing Akemi's not fixed the karaoke machine yet, we'd end up getting some sad backing music.

>>4601309
>>You sure? I always figured we'd stay dormmates through college.
>"Now how else am I going to "borrow" your deodorant?"

>>4601309
>>That's... cool. Whatever, I'm hardly going to begrudge anyone trying to bail on this dump.

Calling for
>That's... cool. Whatever, I'm hardly going to begrudge anyone trying to bail on this dump.

Writing now.

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>That's... cool. Whatever, I'm hardly going to begrudge anyone trying to bail on this dump.

"Oh..." Ken scratches the back of his head. "I guess not... figured I was getting worked up over nothing."

"Getting worked up?" you scoff. "How'd you think I would react?"

Ken chuckles and shakes his head. "I... I don't know. I was just being crazy. Let's get on with the party then?"

As Ken walks back into the rooftop area, you hear Akemi's voice calling out. "Hey, it's fixed! Yahooooo! Raiden, sing something!"

"M-me?! I... I don't-"

"Go on!"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8aJoDL66Bc

"Uhh... raindrops keep falling on my head..."

For some reason, you remain in the stairwell.

"Ryoji... you can laugh it off with Ken, but..."

You scoff. "Come on, Nina. It's like I said. This place is a dump... why would I care about anyone sticking around after graduation? If it weren't for Sak, I'd head as far away as possible the second I graduated to."

"Of course you don't blame Ken, but... it's Ken."

"So?"

"I just... well, don't you remember when I left for High School? After we broke up? You were lost without your best friend..."

You nod. "Starting acting out more than usual... getting kicked out of school after school after school..." You pause. "I... didn't remember that, actually. But now that you've mentioned it... it all came flooding back. How... did you?"

"I... I don't know," Nina replies. "It just came to me... maybe parts of me are coming back to you..."

Yeah...

"You look like you're moping."

You look down the stairwell to see Maro walking up toward you. Huh, you didn't expect him to actually show up... "What's wrong with you, Ryoji?"

You turn your head. "Nothing. Figured you'd be too busy with graduation prep to show up."

"It's not just that," Maro replies. "Can't even think about graduation, when we still have one more mission beforehand... taking care of that portal in Rubi that the freshmen found."

"Of course..." you reply. "So busy, I've barely seen any of you lately."

Maro keeps his usual stone face. No sentimentality on that guy at all, huh? "You'll be seeing me a lot less too. When I graduate, I'll only be working monthly jobs with the new portal. Hell, we might not even meet again after tomorrow."

>Geez, could you try to sound less eager?
>Nah, we'll meet again. I'll make sure of it.
>Times really are changing, huh Maro?

>>4601364
>>Geez, could you try to sound less eager?

>>4601364
>>Times really are changing, huh Maro?
See you cockblocker cowboy.

>>4601364
>Geez, could you try to sound less eager?
He's finally free to indulge his hat fetish in peace.

>>4601364
>Nah, we'll meet again. I'll make sure of it.
We'll free up more real estate in our heads to store your soul after you get stabbed.

Calling for
>Geez, could you try to sound less eager?

Writing now.

>>4601369
>See you cockblocker cowboy
Yes, now it is Ryoji's turn to be just show up and interrupt Kaz and Mayu anytime things look like they are getting even the slightest bit intimate!

>>4601430
And once Ryoji graduates it will be Kaz the one who awkwardly interrupts Eri any time she and her future boyfriend have a moment.

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>Geez, could you try to sound less eager?

Maro shrugs. "I probably could. I won't."

"What's got you in such a pissed mood?" you ask.

"Thoughts, mostly..." Maro speaks in his usual quiet tone. "I can't stay long. Lilo just wanted me to make an appearance."

A part of you doesn't wish to return to the party just yet. Thoughts swirling in your head... what does your own future hold?

You walk down the steps, readying your pack of cigarettes. A smoke break is exactly what's needed at a time like this. Besides, you don't want to hear any more butchered songs on the karaoke machine.

As you reach the bottom of the stairwell, you're interrupted by an all too familiar approaching teacher. "Hey teach."

"Smoking?" Akihito replies. "Indoors? Shida, you're getting awfully sure of yourself lately."

"What is it this time?" you ask. "Four weeks detention?"

Akihito shakes his head. "It's the end of the year, I'm willing to be a little lenient... you'll start third year with two weeks detention."

Of course...

"Party happening on the roof?"

"Well you've got a good imaginat-"

"Anyone could hear Satomi's horrific rendition of the Sailor Moon theme from here," Akihito replies. "Don't worry Shida, I'm not going to shut it down."

Akihito leans against the wall next to you as he speaks. "I can't give you your exact scores, Ryoji... but you actually did well this year."

"That so?"

"Yeah..." Akihito replies. "I'm... proud."

You take a puff of your cigarette. "Geez, don't say sappy stuff like-"

"Proud of myself for being right all the time," Akihito smirks. "I said this school would be the one to whip you into shape... and I think I managed it."

"Right, of course..." you shake your head.

"You've turned into a mighty fine leader," Akihito adds. "You and Kobashi both. You'll be the seniors to lead the rest of the school on your backs in the next year."

"I don't want that position," you reply. "That's the spot-"

"Yamato had," Akihito replies. "You won't fall into the same traps, Ryoji."

He read your mind, didn't he? Damn that teach...

"Why are you telling me all this?"

Akihito shrugs. "You're growing up, Ryoji. Becoming a man. These days won't last forever."

"Good," you reply. "This last year sucked."

"In many ways," Akihito admits. "Considering our situation, that's expected... but not in others, right?"

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You pause.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-nsYQg1Bk0

"Ryoji Shida... a delinquent who always wanted to be alone," Akihito replies. "You always cut others off through your youth... and now you see the joy of friendship... as well as the pain."

"The pain?"

"Ryoji..." Akihito replies. "You've been through so much already. So much loss... your friends, your control your body, even your memories... I know it must feel like nothing is secure."

You fold your arms. "I don't care for you doing your whole school councillor routine on me."

"Why not?" Akihito replied. "This routine is the first thing you ever heard in this school."

"I'm going back to the party," you protest.

"Ryoji..." Akihito replies. "Nothing IS secure."

"Huh?"

"I wish I could tell you otherwise," he replies. "But that's just how the universe works. Everything eventually comes to an end. We won't be here, doing this forever. One day you'll move on with your life, and one day there'll come a time when I won't be around."

"Teach..."

"It's all a matter of how equipped you are for when that time comes," he explains. "The only one who can prepare you for that is you."

>That's the problem, Teach. I can't die... I just have to watch it all end around me.
>Don't talk like that, Teach. You've got plenty more years.
>And how am I supposed to do that?

>>4601455
>>That's the problem, Teach. I can't die... I just have to watch it all end around me.

>>4601455
>That's the problem, Teach. I can't die... I just have to watch it all end around me.
Damn you monkey paw!

>>4601455
>>And how am I supposed to do that?
Oof it hurts

>>4601455

>That's the problem, Teach. I can't die... I just have to watch it all end around me.

>>4601455
>Don't talk like that, Teach. You've got plenty more years.
Ryoji's handing out all these flags for free.

>>4601455
>>That's the problem, Teach. I can't die... I just have to watch it all end around me.
Daaamn

Calling for
>That's the problem, Teach. I can't die... I just have to watch it all end around me.

Writing now.

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>That's the problem, Teach. I can't die... I just have to watch it all end around me.

"Ryoji..." Akihito mutters.

You walk back up the stairs, Akihito doesn't follow.

Nina... Sora...

You saw a stranger with the face of your childhood friend. You saw strangers with the faces of your parents. Will you forget Ken one day? Will you forget Saki one day? Kosuke, Rini, Nanami, Isamu, Akemi, Rei, Akio... any of them? Will any of your friends remain in your mind? You remember the smile Akemi's fireworks bring to your face... will they mean anything to you in the future?

You return to the party on the roof. Seems everyone's having a good time...

You feel something cold touch your neck. Startled, you step forward, spinning around to see Raiden with a can of soda. "Drink up," he tells you.

"Oh... thanks," you reply, taking the can. "You're not usually so much in a party-going mood."

"Well..." Raiden admits. "Usually it's you picking me up from being a recluse. Right now, I'm returning the favour."

You sigh. "It's obvious, huh?"

Raiden nods. "I don't need to ask."

You shake your head. "Raiden... you ever think about the future? When it all ends?"

"No," Raiden replies. "I was ready for it all to end a long time ago. Despite that... I kept on going. So will you."

"But-"

"Every moment ends, Ryoji..." Raiden replies. "It's up to you to catch it before it does."

Maybe Raiden's right... you look around the party. Saki is attempting to stave off having another burger. Akemi and Isamu are still goofing off around the karaoke machine. Rini and Kosuke are making out in the corner, as usual. Nanami and Ken are talking by the vending machine, and the rest are dancing.

Catch this moment, huh...

>Join Saki.
>Join Akemi and Isamu.
>Join Ken and Nanami.
>Join the dancers.

>>4601614
>>Join Akemi and Isamu.

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>>4601614
>Join the dancers.

It is time to Delinquent dance away all our problems!

>>4601614
>Join Akemi and Isamu.

>>4601621
Ryoji lacks the slav genetics to pull off those moves

>>4601614
>>Join Akemi and Isamu.

>>4601614
>Join Ken and Nanami.

>>4601614
>Join Akemi and Isamu.

Calling for
>Join Akemi and Isamu.

Writing now.

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>Join Akemi and Isamu.

Raiden is right. Now's not the time to get bogged down in thoughts. Why miss this good time out of fear of something far away?

You step up to Isamu and Akemi, and hold out your hand. "Mind if I take it for a spin?"

"Haha!" Isamu puffs out his chest. "The great Ryoji Shida plans to share his angelic voice with the rest of us?"

"Angelic?" you smirk. "Well, I'm not one to brag..."

"You brag a lot!" Akemi innocently points out. "Remember yesterday when you bragged that you could lean back far enough in your chair that it'd be only a five centimeters off the ground?"

"And I managed it, didn't I?" you reply. "Ah, the things I do when I have thirty minutes to spare after the test..."

"Ryoji, have you ever considered applying that intelligence of yours?"

"Not particularly."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zu9GT3-3Juk

You take to the karaoke machine and get to singing. After all, it's the end of the year. It'll be a few weeks before you see all your friends in one place again.

The party is a rousing success despite your momentary reservations.

It carries on into the evening, before the rest of you retire to your dorms.

One thing is missing from the party, however...

None of the first years returned.

That evening, Saki catches you waiting on the steps of the dorm building, two steaming mugs in her hand. "Ryoji, it's cold out here..." she replies.

"Yeah, I needed to clear my thoughts..." you reply.

"I wasn't asking you to come inside," she replies, before handing you one of the mug, and pulling a blanket from around her shoulders. "Cocoa... keep warm."

"Thanks, Sak."

Saki sits down next to you, nestling in. "Waiting on them to return?"

"If they return..." you reply.

"Ryoji, you can't think like that," Saki responds. "They'll be back. They're more than capable."

"How do you know?"

Saki shrugs. "I don't. You asked me a year ago and I would have given you the pragmatists answer. But a certain jellybean taught me to view things with a little more hope."

You sigh. "That's not all on my mind. I've just had a lot of thoughts about... the future."

"You're not one to usually worry about that," Saki notes. "Usually being anxious about the future is my job."

"True," you reply. "I've seen you already agonising over choices in our wedding folder... hell, you already made us a wedding folder."

"It's all about being prepared!" Saki replies. "When you're prepared, nothing can take you by surprise!"

You give a small chuckle. "Akihito said something similar... I just don't know if I agree."

Saki sighs. "I heard Ken is going to study abroad next year... I'm guessing that's what set off these thoughts."

>That would be selfish of me, Sak. Ken can do what he wants.
>It's only a small part of it. It's everything we've been through.
>I admit it, Sak. I'm a little kid who doesn't want his best friend to move away.

>>4601698
>>That would be selfish of me, Sak. Ken can do what he wants.

>>4601698
>That would be selfish of me, Sak. Ken can do what he wants.
>Doesn't mean I won't miss the fuck out of him though...

>>4601698
>It's only a small part of it. It's everything we've been through.

>"When you're prepared, nothing can take you by surprise!"
Oh boy, can't wait for Saki's tunnel vision to bite her in the ass.

>>4601698
>>That would be selfish of me, Sak. Ken can do what he wants.

>>4601698
>It's only a small part of it. It's everything we've been through.

Calling for
>That would be selfish of me, Sak. Ken can do what he wants.

Writing now.

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>That would be selfish of me, Sak. Ken can do what he wants.

"I know that..." Saki replies. "But it's not selfish to feel like you're losing something."

Saki places her hand atop yours, and gives you a smile. "The future is a while away, Ryoji."

You scoff. "You don't believe in that advice."

Saki laughs. "No... but it's exactly what you'd tell me."

A brief pauses, before she kisses you on the cheek. "Take all the time you want to think... but make sure you get to bed at a normal time, okay?"

One day... she'll be gone. And you'll still be there.

Will you even remember her? Or will she become just like Nina?

>Later that night

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sySlY1XKlhM

"Thank God for that. For a moment there I thought we were in trouble."

As the words come out your mouth, you feel something off. Is this a dream? No... doesn't feel right. The guns in your hands certainly feel real.

This ain't a dream, this is real.

You're the same old Butch Cassidy you always were.

And your buddy Ken there? He's the Sundance Kid.

And this is your final standoff.

The two of you look to each-other, giving a nod of assurance. You're pretty banged up... but this is it.

You both turn the corner, firing at the forces that have you trapped. The bullets whiz past your ear as you turn around... to noone.

Sundance ain't there.

Ken ain't there.

You wake up in a cold sweat. Dammit... that's the last time you listen to one of Maro's film suggestions.

It's the early hours of the morning... but you aren't getting back to sleep any time soon. Unless you had more vivid dreams about yourself and Ken. Maybe the next time you'll be a cowboy and he'll be a spaceman. What a laugh...

You rise from your bed and let out a yawn and a stretch. Maybe you did get to sleep a little late. You can't be the responsible one like Ken...

... Who isn't in his bunk.

At this hour? That's not a good sign.

You check the bathroom, but he isn't there either. Leaving only one place Ken could be at a time like this...

You grab your jacket, and get moving to the check out the pond out back. But it doesn't matter, as you find Ken the moment you step outside of the dorm building. Ken... and someone else.

A tall, dark-haired man, with dark shadows under his eyes... and heavy chains attached to his hands. What's more... you recognise that energy anywhere... he's a...

"Ken, stand back!" you shout. "He's a-"

"Ryoji..." Ken replies. "He just told me."

"Then why aren't you-"

"Because," Ken replies. "He's my dad."

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That's all for tonight, will be continuing the session tomorrow! Thanks for playing!

>>4601800
Thanks for running Booker
Rip Ken, about to be sacrificed by his demondad because His mom doesn't want to fuck a murderer.

>>4601797
Aaaaaaaaa shits about to go down

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"Mm... good eggs."

Well, this is an unsettling feeling.

At the table in the dorm sits yourself, Ken and Ken's father, who is helping himself to some breakfast. You eye Ken suspiciously. Does he really trust this guy? He's still wearing the chains... Not to mention...

"So..." you mutter. "How did you-"

"Get out of prison?" Ken's father notes. "Well, I'm sure you can tell it wasn't entirely legal means."

"Dad..." Ken mutters. "Why would you break out? After all this time?"

The older man shakes his head. "We got the news in there... I couldn't believe it. My own boy, engaged in some sort of mystical battle. Heh... they always said I'd come out of prison to a completely different world. They always mean new tech, though... can't imagine anyone figured this."

"But why?"

"I thought I could fess up to it," his father replies. "I thought I could live out my time like a man... turns out I didn't have the guts for it. Seeing what you were doing triggered something in me... I couldn't sit back without being by your side son. There comes a point when you need an escape... you understand, right Ken?"

"Escape?" Ken mumbles to himself, his head hanging low. "N-no... I'm not..."

"And so," Miyoko's voice calls out as the Demon Hunter enters the room. "You made a deal with one of our escaped demons, didn't you?"

She steps forward, a file in her hand. "Kenshiro Tajiri... arrested and sentenced to 25 years in prison for the murder of his business partner, Tanjiro Meiji..."

You raise an eyebrow as you look to Miyoko. "Did you just have a damn file on the guy? How in the hell did you get that so fast?"

"Tajiri-san's case is actually more relevant to us than you would believe, Ryoji," Miyoko explains. "Isn't that correct?"

"Lady, I have no idea who you are..." Kenshiro replies. "But... I always thought things were connected."

"What?" Ken asks, confused. "What do you mean? What happened with Meiji?"

Kenshiro lets out a sigh. "I don't really know. I was introduced to some... cultish shit from working with him. Ever since he started meeting with that man..."

"Care to state his name?" Miyoko asks, flashing a smug smile that tells you she already knows the answer.

Kenshiro grunts. "A name that will burn in my mind forever. It all started with him... Settan Taguchi."

Settan...?

The very same Settan that...?

>Well, you don't have to worry. I killed Settan last year.
>Just... what exactly happened with you and your business partner?
>Hey... do you need help out of those cuffs or something?

>>4603040
>>Just... what exactly happened with you and your business partner?
Ahhh the plot thickens.

>>4603040
>>Just... what exactly happened with you and your business partner?

>>4603040
>Just... what exactly happened with you and your business partner?
Based Kenshiro dealing with demon shit even as a normie

>>4603040
>Just... what exactly happened with you and your business partner?

Why does the name Meiji sound so god damn familiar....

>>4603040
>Well, you don't have to worry. I killed Settan last year.

Calling for
>Just... what exactly happened with you and your business partner?

Writing now.

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>Just... what exactly happened with you and your business partner?

"I... can't be sure myself," Kenshiro admits. "When we first got into business together, everything was normal. When he died, there was no reasonable theory other than a business disagreement... they saw him negotiating to merge with the Shooting Star corporation, and naturally believed that I attacked him once I discovered. In truth, I was happy with the decision... but something else left me unsettled."

"Let me guess..." Miyoko states. "He was contacted by a man named Settan, began to take long nights, show up in the morning lacking sleep, talking about being watched by some unseen force?"

"Yes... how do you-"

"He was being recruited by The Order," Miyoko explains. "Settan wanted a tight grasp on someone with resources in this world, to help fund them in their exploration of the other world."

"The other world..." Kenshiro mutters. "Even now, it's so hard to believe. But what Meiji spoke of really was true, wasn't it? I thought he was just being recruited into some phony religion, and it made him paranoid..."

You look to Ken. His face is sullen, he emotions crushed. For years, he thought he knew the truth of his father's case. But now...?

"Dad..." Ken replies. "Why are you still wearing the cuffs?"

Kenshiro lets out a sigh. "Because I need to be weighed down. In my heart, I'm still a guilty man."

"But-"

"I still killed Meiji," he replies. "But I promise you, son... it was self-defence. Nobody would believe me, of course. Meiji was always a peaceful man before his turn. Not even your mother could look me in the eye after."

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Miyoko lets out a small chuckle. "And so, upon seeing the news of demons and their existence, you realised the truth of Meiji's conditioning. And so... you broke free from prison, to settle your unfinished business... with help of a demon of your own."

Ken's face hangs lower, and Kenshiro's falls in turn. "Yeah... I talked to one of those things. And it blessed me with power... I knew there was no way I could get my revenge if I didn't."

Miyoko outstretches her arm, offering a handshake. "Then it is a pleasure and a shame to meet you, Tajiri. A pleasure, as our goals seem to be the same. A shame, as I'll be tasked with ending you once you are no longer able to control your demon."

Miyoko sure has a way with words, doesn't she? To no surprise, Kenshiro glares at the ancient girl without accepting the handshake. "If you'll excuse us," Miyoko replies. "We should all talk."

Miyoko leads you and Ken out into the hallway, where she lets out a sigh. "Oh, I had hoped for as little excitement as possible today..."

"What, excited for graduation?" you reply. "You aren't even a real member of this school."

"But I was technically in Class 3," she explains in a forlorn tone. "I was eager to get a glimpse of that lived experience, to graduate school... I have been a teenager for hundreds of years, Ryoji. The little moments are often lost on me. This is worrying..."

"This isn't about you..." Ken mutters in a frustrated tone. "I'm sorry... but that's my dad. Everything I thought I knew, I... he..."

>Ken... you know your dad better than anyone. Do you trust him?
>We don't need to worry about his business. Settan is already dead.
>Why don't you just give him that cleansing water, if you're so worried?

>>4603113
>>Ken... you know your dad better than anyone. Do you trust him?

>>4603113
>Well that's his side of the story, unfortunately the other party isn't around to hear from.
>Ken... you know your dad better than anyone. Do you trust him?

>>4603113
>>Why don't you just give him that cleansing water, if you're so worried?
Let’s Frodo this thing.

>>4603113
>Ken... you know your dad better than anyone. Do you trust him?
Please for the love of god let him survive. If only for the fact it may lead to Kenshiro playing the JoJo defence when someone asks why a 40 year old is in a class full of 17 year olds.

Calling for
>Ken... you know your dad better than anyone. Do you trust him?

Writing now.

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>Ken... you know your dad better than anyone. Do you trust him?

"I..." Ken mutters to himself.

"Well, that is an answer in itself, isn't it?" Miyoko replies. "There's no better evidence than-"

"Can it," you warn her. "Quit the smug act, and let Ken answer."

Ken lets out a sigh. "I... have to give him at least some faith, don't I? He's my dad..."

You nod. "I know, Ken... I know..."

Ken lets out another sigh, more exasperated, as he removes his cap from his head, running his hand through his thick hair. "Ryoji... on that day my father was sentenced... I was just a boy. I didn't know what was going on, I barely understood why... why my father was being taken away from me. But at the end of it all... I wasn't left screaming for my father as he was taken away. I was left quiet... in respect... for only one man who stood in front of me in that room. It wasn't my father... it was the judge. The man who stood there, hearing out every part of the story... impartial and rational. He wasn't emotional, he didn't care about his own personal interests... that was a man who cared simply about the truth and finding the justice in a situation. I wanted to be that man..."

Ken looks back into the lounge, before turning back to you. "But now... I realise even the fair and the balanced... could still be wrong. Maybe I've been wrong about people in the past."

"You trusted me right away," you reply. "Despite my reputation."

"That doesn't mean my gut feeling is right all the time," Ken explains. "That's irrational."

"And believing your father is...?"

"It's... a possibility..." Ken replies. "That's all I know."

As you speak, the door to Nanami's room creaks open, as the pink-haired pirate stumbles out, still clearing the tired bags from her eyes. "Morn'..." she mumbles, walking past the three of you and into the lounge.

"Nanami, uhh..." Ken mumbles, as Nanami steps inside... her eyes quickly widening as she walks into the room and spotting Kenshiro.

She freezes in her tracks, her eyes darting to you and Ken. "I don't want to alarm you... but there's a man in chains here eating eggs."

"Nanami..." Ken points out. "That's my dad."

"Oh, right..." Nanami whispers, still frozen. "I don't want to alarm you... but you're dad's in chains and eating eggs."

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"So, this is Nanami?" Kenshiro chuckles. "Ah, Ken has told me a lot about you!"

"He has?" Nanami blushes.

"He hasn't gone a letter without it!" Kenshiro stands from his chair. "It's so good to finally meet you! I'd give you a hug, but... mind the chains. Come here!"

"Uhhhhhhh..." Nanami mumbles, extremelly confused. Ken takes her arm and leads her back into conversation with Kenshiro, as Miyoko pulls you back.

Miyoko crosses her arms as she looks you in the eye. "Do you intend such a thing, Ryoji?"

"What?"

Miyoko smirks. "You intend on informing Agent White of the intruder, do you not?"

"Is she trying to read your thoughts or something? Is... is she successful?"

"Do you take me for a snitch? I don't play nice with the agents," you reply.

Miyoko smiles. "Of course, of course! Snitching is bad, as is my understanding. I wouldn't recommend telling them, either. I think this is a matter the both of us should deal with ourselves... but I can tell you don't trust the man. I want to be clear on your own intentions before we decide on what to do."

>You're right... he's suspicious. I hate it, but the agents need to know about him being here.
>We're not telling anyone. We don't need them poking their noses in here.
>I trust Wei... I'll tell him, but White won't find out a thing.

>>4603215
>I trust Wei... I'll tell him, but White won't find out a thing.
And why do you think we trust you and your lot demon hunter?

>>4603215
>I trust Wei... I'll tell him, but White won't find out a thing.
Being fishing bros is an unbreakable bond

>>4603215
>>I trust Wei... I'll tell him, but White won't find out a thing.

>>4603215
>We're not telling anyone. We don't need them poking their noses in here.
What could go wrong?

>>4603215
>>We're not telling anyone. We don't need them poking their noses in here.
I don’t trust neither the gov or Wei.

>>4603215
>>I trust Wei... I'll tell him, but White won't find out a thing.
Wei is dad

Calling for
>I trust Wei... I'll tell him, but White won't find out a thing.

Continuing the thread tomorrow.

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>I trust Wei... I'll tell him, but White won't find out a thing.

"You trust the old man?" Miyoko ponders, placing a finger to her chin. "That is a new development."

"You're one to talk, Grandma..." you point out. "He's not going to rat to the agents at least... I hope."

Miyoko shakes her head. "Well, it isn't my duty to stop you. If you think contacting the Old Dragon will ease our concerns, then that is what we should do."

After some hesitation, that's exactly what you'll do. Kenshiro is busy playing father with Ken and Nanami, so now's your chance to slip out and inform the old man.

When you tell Wei of what occurred in the morning, he's... well, exactly how you pictured him to be.

"Another outsider making their way into my school?" he barks in an insulted tone. "This is a disgrace! We need better security! I blame the news revealing our location, and that girl with the megaphone outside the gates. Practically advertising to our enemies!"

"I feel he's missing the point..."

You sigh. "Calm down, Gramps... Old man Tajiri might not be an enemy."

"You said you were suspicious of him?"

"Well... yeah," you reply. "He's got a freakin' demon resting in his soul. I've dealt with... how many?"

"Collectively we've worked through nine of the escaped Archdemons, but you've personally dealt with six."

"... Nine of the damn things this semester," you point out. "Every time it's turned into bad news. But some people have had some level of control. Alice, me, Yamada... who's to say Ken's pop couldn't do the same?"

Wei ponders in thought. "He at the very least claims to have the same enemies we do. He claims his life was ruined by Settan Taguchi... and his brother remains as one of the last demons we have left to take care of."

"And the man who killed Yamada," you add. "I don't like that Daisuke and his old man both died on my behalf."

Wei sighs. "Ryoji... I won't tell the agents of this."

"Thanks, gramps," you reply. "I was worried you'd be a snitch. Guess you've got the heart of a delinquent in-"

"This isn't a favour to you," Wei snaps. "Agent White is a factor we don't want muddying the waters. I'm already annoyed that these... so-called Demon Hunters are already aware of his existence."

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You nod. "That's what worries me too. Miyoko is the level headed one, but even if she can keep tattoo and patchy in control... she seemed far too pleased about Kenshiro's situation. Feels to me she wants to use him, then dispose of him when she gets the chance."

"And our strategy?" Wei asks. "Do you have something different in mind?"

"Call me a softie," you note. "But my strategies tend to be a little more humane. Use him... then figure out if he needs to be disposed of or not. I'm not gonna make a rash judgement on him."

"But someone will."

You pause. So... now his name comes up.

Wei flicks through his files, letting out a sigh. The old man is just as frustrated as you are. "Ken Tajiri... you know the boy well. He's your best friend, correct?"

"Yeah..."

"No idea why," Wei points out. "He's a moral, upstanding young gentleman. I much would have preferred someone like him marrying my granddaughter."

"Geez, get to the-"

"In fact I suppose where you not bunkmates, you likely never would have spoke," Wei points out. "I imagine when that convenience of proximity ends, your friendship will dissolve. Those based on little mutual ground often do-"

"The point!" you snap.

Wei looks somewhat startled. You've always talked back to him, never been afraid to get in his face... but you doubt he's even seen his words bother you like that. You've never snapped at him like that.

"Very well," Wei continues. "The truth is that boy's judgement is compromised. We're talking about his father, after all. A young man like that has some level of attachment to the one who raised him... I would assume. Tell me Ryoji, do you believe Tajiri will have a clear mind when it comes to his father? Should he indeed be an enemy, will he stand by our side or stand in our way?"

>I... don't know. Ken loves his dad, despite everything. He's willing to believe anything from him.
>Not a chance. Ken's all about truth and justice, no matter who's involved.
>That dad left him behind for eight years. He'd trust his best friend over that guy any day of the week.

>>4604205
>>Not a chance. Ken's all about truth and justice, no matter who's involved.
Damn Lawfags.

>>4604205
>Not a chance. Ken's all about truth and justice, no matter who's involved.
Going to be pretty awkward when Ken's hired to book us for all of The Stranger's manslaughter charges.

>>4604205
>>I... don't know. Ken loves his dad, despite everything. He's willing to believe anything from him.
Any true Lawfag would have killed the demon regardless of their meat puppet choice.

>>4604205
>Not a chance. Ken's all about truth and justice, no matter who's involved.
>Ken wants to be Judge one day, he needs to master being impartial and separate his feelings from the situation, what better time for him to learn the skill.

>>4604205
>I... don't know. Ken loves his dad, despite everything. He's willing to believe anything from him.

Calling for
>Not a chance. Ken's all about truth and justice, no matter who's involved.

Writing now.

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>Not a chance. Ken's all about truth and justice, no matter who's involved.

"That's what you believe," Wei points out. "And I'm sure it's what he believes too. But I wonder how it measures up when put to the test."

You turn your head. "Trust me, old man, Ken is as dedicated to his word as anyone. He's always talking about-"

"Talking," Wei interrupts. "It's easy to talk, Ryoji. He's a boy of seventeen years. I doubt he's carrying any less false bravado than you."

"I know Ken and he-"

"He believes in his words, yes..." Wei adds. "But make no mistake. He's as cocky as you are. He may not brag of his skills or his brain or his body... he may not brag about the superficial. But the belief in his convictions is still an act of a cocksure boy. It's simply a different flavour."

You shake your head. "You're talking out your ass."

"At that age, all convictions are merely hubris," Wei explains. "They will remain so until his feet have truly been held to the fire. He may feel unbending in his convictions now... but so far it's been easy for him, has it not? He's never truly been tested."

"I believe in him. Is that enough for you?" you ask.

Wei looks at you with a respectful nod. "Ryoji... no. Not at all. Not even remotely. Quite frankly, your judgement of character both confuses and infuriates me. The more you say something, the less I am inclined to believe it. If you were to-"

"I get it," you sigh. "Look, I'll arrange a meeting with him right now. We need to be clear about how this can play out... we might not trust his dad, but Ken's one of ours."

"Yes, we do not want to keep him in the dark with our intentions," Wei replies. "It will only leave him feeling betrayed when confronted with the situation. Meet with your friend, and be on your way..."

You turn towards the door, as Wei speaks up again. "Ryoji... before you go..."

"What?"

"... Agent White informed me of the ability of Tori Taguchi."

Oh... is that a hint of concern in the old man's voice? It doesn't suit him. The stern toned, stone-faced dragon is better of snarling and scolding, not speaking in a softer tone like a worried parent. "What of it?"

"You know... you're worried that his ability means he can kill even you, don't you?"

"That's..."

Wei sighs. "You're scared, Ryoji. It is okay to be. You're just a boy."

>I stopped being "Just a boy" as soon as I got dumped in this hellhole, old man. Too late for "Just a boy".
>Yeah... I'm scared. So what? That's normal, right?
>Who the hell do you think I am? I'm Ryoji Shida, the master delinquent. Nothing scares me, Gramps.

>>4604279
>>Yeah... I'm scared. So what? That's normal, right?

>>4604279
>I stopped being "Just a boy" as soon as I got dumped in this hellhole, old man. Too late for "Just a boy".

>>4604279
>I stopped being "Just a boy" as soon as I got dumped in this hellhole, old man. Too late for "Just a boy".
Even after all that has happened Ryoji still hates this place.

>>4604279
>Yeah... I'm scared. So what? That's normal, right?
Ryoji's a Delinquent against Authority not a Delinquent against his own feelings!

>>4604279
>I stopped being "Just a boy" as soon as I got dumped in this hellhole, old man. Too late for "Just a boy".
I'm still salty Tori's ability just dusts his victims instead of KILLA QUEENing them.

>>4604279
>>I stopped being "Just a boy" as soon as I got dumped in this hellhole, old man. Too late for "Just a boy".
The first thing that happened to me is i got judo thrown by a girl smaller than me, then saw someone get squeezed like toothpaste

Calling for
>I stopped being "Just a boy" as soon as I got dumped in this hellhole, old man. Too late for "Just a boy".

Writing now.

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>I stopped being "Just a boy" as soon as I got dumped in this hellhole, old man. Too late for "Just a boy".

"Yes..." Wei mutters. "I suppose the time has passed for that. This last year..."

You look to your phone, and text Ken, requesting he meet you in the courtyard in ten minutes.

"I'm going now, old man."

"Take care, Ryoji."

You scoff, before opening the door.

"I mean it," Wei reiterates. "Ryoji... take care."

With that, you make your way to the courtyard, and await Ken's arrival.

And wait.

And wait.

"It's been almost half an hour... did he see your message?"

"Yeah..." you mutter. "Almost instantly... that makes twice he's been late in as many days. Probably only the second time in his life Ken hasn't been punctual for something..."

"You think something might be wrong?"

"No... he'll be here any second..."

It's rare that you're the one waiting on Ken...

No reply from him at all. Not even a heads-up.

Will this be what it's like? Waiting and waiting... for nothing in return.

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

You and Ken... really don't have a lot in common do you? He's the boyscout, you're the delinquent. He's polite and courteous, you're abrasive and rude. He likes Kamen Rider and Red Mask, you like... well, not a whole lot.

Maybe Wei is right... what have the two of you got?

The two of you share nothing but a bunk bed and a pond out back... and that pond isn't gonna be there where he's going!

Your hand trembles... what is this feeling?

Five years from now... will you and Ken still be like you are now? Laughing, joking, sitting together in the dark of night talking about nothing... feeling like you could do this forever. Will he and Nanami still be together in five years? You and Saki... will Akio or Akihito even still be around in five years? Will any of them?

All your friends... it was this school. It was this school that brought you all together. That keeps you together. But... you can't stay here forever, and neither can they.

Soon, it'll drift apart. You'll be ships, passing in the night.

And maybe once, every now and then, you'll remember that time Isamu tried to make his own film. Or that time Akio and Seishiro made a stupid bet about landing Sayeka. Or that time Chihiro and Nariko set up that stupid stall during the school festival. Heh... or that time Akemi tried to play the sax, and she assumed she could do it on her first try. That goof... those memories that make these cold months just a little warmer. And you'll call back to them and think... Damn, I wonder what ever happened to those guys? And... why didn't I get to see it?

Maybe those days have always been numbered.

But it pains your heart to actually see the horizon.

"Ryoji... are you crying? Is something wrong?"

"Heh..." you wipe your eye. "Nah... just melancholy."

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Your attempts to collect your thoughts are interrupted.

By an unfamiliar voice. One that instantly shivers your spine.

"Now, this is a surprise. I didn't expect you to be sitting right here."

Your eyes lift up... to spot a white haired man, with a pristine look. He's decked out in an all-white robe, with feathers attached to the shoulder. A monocle in his eye, and a smug look on his face, he seems to be more of a dutiful peacock than a man, with his perfectly preened look.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NN2TOdiPtG4

Despite that, it's his eyes that give way to something else. A primal unease forms in your stomach as he looks at you, and you soon realise his appearance doesn't simply annoy you... it instill in you a deep fear.

This is not the expression of a man proud of his appearance.

This is the expression of a man who knows he can't be touched.

"We finally come face to face, Ryoji..." the man speaks. "However, I didn't expect you to be red in the eye before we already met. To be quite honest... I had hoped to leave you that way... snivelling and begging my forgiveness."

"You're-"

"I'm still speaking."

The man reaches up and gently pinches an errant hair amongst his perfectly kept hedge. He removes it with precision, examining it before throwing it away. "Tori Taguchi... I believe you knew my brother."

>Correction. I killed your brother.
>So, we finally meet. What do you want?
>And... just how in the hell did you get in here?

>>4604387
>>Correction. I killed your brother.

>>4604387
>And... just how in the hell did you get in here?
Seriously, what the fuck is wrong with the staff here?

>>4604387
>>And... just how in the hell did you get in here?
Wei is right the security here sucks, how many archdemons have just literally walked through the front door?

>>4604387
>And... just how in the hell did you get in here?
You'd have thought after Chuichi's normie parents got ripped to shreds they'd at least install a fucking lock.

>>4604387
>I knew alot of people's brothers you'll need to be more specific.

Calling for
>And... just how in the hell did you get in here?

Writing now.

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>And... just how in the hell did you get in here?

"I don't believe this school has much in the way of security," Tori replies. "I should know."

"Right..." you reply. "You're part of that damn Order too..."

"The Order of the Awakened," Tori replies. As he speaks, the muscles in your face tense up, and his razor sharp focus picks up on it. He truly is like a bird. "That name gave you a reaction... I assume you expected not to hear it again. But let me assure you, Ryoji Shida... the Order of the Awakened is very much alive... with me standing as it's leader. As... The Herald."

"The what?"

"The Herald, of the Elder One!" Tori chuckles to himself. "Quite the title, isn't it? Of course, it's no... Master Delinquent. My brother's old records on you mentioned that term a great deal."

Tori Taguchi looks around him, sniffing in the air. "Ah... I had almost forgotten the air pressure on this hill. So different from the rest of the village."

You pause. "Forgotten...? You mean-"

"You know Reiji Yasukawa, do you not?" he points out. "A stray sheep of the Order, hopefully one I can bring back home. You knew his status as a spy... well, I must admit in my youth I served as the Order's watchmen within the walls of this building... of course, I did a much better job than my successor."

Your fist tenses up, curling into a ball. Everything about him reminds you of that bastard Settan... but somehow this guy is even more obnoxious and insufferable. "You know you can't just walk in here, right? You might get a good shot at me, but even an Archdemon is overwhelmed by the entire might of the school at once."

"I know," Tori replies. "I'm hardly storming the gates of the castle... merely leaving a message. Three days from now... the Order will come and take this school. It is time we were reunited with our sister world, instead of holding it back."

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"And you couldn't leave a note?" you joke in a sarcastic tone. "Why come out here by yourself?"

"Because I wanted to see your eyes," Tori replies, his tone of voice turning sharper, more pointed. "I wanted to see the eyes of the man I swear an eternity of punishment towards, to see if he cares when I tell him in three days, everything he knows will be taken away from him. And... I wanted to see your eyes right now, in the moment I mark the end of your days..."

With that, Tori draws a long naginata from what seems to be a portal in his robes, it's tip glaring sharp in the midday sun. "I promise you, Ryoji. They will all suff-"

Before Tori can finish his sentence, a bullet flies past you... hitting him right in the centre of his forehead. Followed by another.

Then another.

You turn your head to see Raiden, approaching while unloading a full round into Tori's body. He sputters and staggers back before dropping to the ground in a bloody heap.

Then... Raiden reloads and begins using up a new round on the downed Tori, each bullet piercing his brain and heart.

Then... he does it again. Another full round, unloaded into the now broken up body of the man who threatened you with everything.

Without a word, Raiden stands at the base of the mangled corpse torn to shreds by his gunfire... before reloading and firing again for good measure.

As the smoke dissipates from the barrel of his gun, he looks to you. "You okay?"

>... Better than expected.
>Do you think you got him? Maybe another round, just to be safe.
>Thanks... guess we're even now.

>>4604452
>>Maybe another round, just to be safe.

>>4604452
>Do you think you got him? Maybe another round, just to be safe.
He's deathclocked himself and made himself immortal hasn't he?

>>4604452
>Do you think you got him? Maybe another round, just to be safe.
So I'm guessing he's an illusion or something and just showed up to mess with our heads.

>>4604452
Fucking yoooooooooooooooo
good moves
>Do you think you got him? Maybe another round, just to be safe.

File: Tori_Taguchi01.png (461 KB, 743x998)

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>Do you think you got him? Maybe another round, just to be safe.

"Ryoji, if I had another round, I wouldn't have stopped," Raiden points out. "Better safe than sorry."

"... Thanks," you reply.

As Raiden puts away his gun, you approach the corpse that was Tori Taguchi. A grizzly sight... Raiden pulled no punches. His skull is mush now... not even an Archdemon host would survive something like that...

"I thought he was stupid for walking right up to the school..." you mutter as you stand over the body. "I figured this had to be a hologram or illusion or whatever... but this is real flesh and blood, isn't it?"

"Looks that way."

You stand over him. "Looks like that prissy peacock's hubris got the better of him, huh?"

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

It feels like the clouds above you have begun to darken... rather quickly. It didn't look like it was going to rain this morning... but the midday sun is quickly blocked out. It's gotten awful dark all of a sudden...

"Ryoji... something's not right..."

"Ryoji!" Raiden barks. "Get away from the body, now!"

"What?" you ask... but it's too late.

Tori's arm springs forward, grabbing your ankle. You jolt down, and suddenly... he's fine.

Not a scratch on him.

He's laying there as perfect and pristine as he was before, not even a dollop of blood on his pure white robes.

The only difference, is a floating ephemeral number above his head.

... 99.

You stagger back, falling and tripping up, as Tori picks himself up off the ground. "You don't have another round, boy..." he points out to Raiden. "And you don't want to try me with that knife you're concealing."

"Demon scum!" Raiden exclaims. "How did you?"

"Did my instrument not give it away?" Tori asks, gesturing to his Naginata, which now more resembles a scythe. "I'm something of a reaper... and when one sews crops, it is not simply for the purpose of bringing the crops to your fields. No, any good farmer knows, you collect them. And they don't just go away when you do. I am not just a man who delivers souls to their final point... no, I reap them. And add them to my own collection."

"You... you've taken that many lives?" you reply.

"I had an even 100," Tori lets out a tsk. "What a shame. Well, I must give you credit, young man. Killing me is no small feat. But could you manage it again? How about a third time? Four?"

Raiden's hand shakes in fear, and he's not alone. You find your hand trembling as well. "So... you were going to mark the end of my days, was it?" you ask, defiantly. "Go ahead..."

File: Tori_Taguchi04.png (142 KB, 688x826)

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Tori raises an eyebrow. "Ryoji, Ryoji... I already did."

"Ryoji..." Raiden mutters, his eyes slowly drifting to above your head.

"What...?" you ask, trying to dart your eyes upward... but you can't see a thing.

"As soon as I touched you," Tori replies. "I marked your doom."

No... does that mean... you have a timer above your head? The same one Yamada had? And when that timer runs out...

"R-Ryoji... we need to focus... you can't be stumbling and staggering now..."

"Don't worry," Tori replies. "Your time runs out in only two days. I've granted you a mercy, Ryoji. You won't have to watch as a take away all you've ever held dear, as you did to me. I'm merciful like that... I am however, quite petty. That's why I told you my plan..."

As you stand frozen in shock, Tori just laughs. "Now... there's the face I wanted. There's the face of a scared little boy who just dawned on the fact... that I've already won. But I want to leave you with one last piece of hope, Ryoji. Kill me, and your doom will never come to pass. Kill me... for good, of course."

"Why tell me-"

"Because that's the last expression I wanted," Tori smirks. "Your last glimpse of false hope, Ryoji Shida."

You see now, as he grins, baring his teeth.

This man is no peacock.

This man is a buzzard.

Another bullet whizzes into the fray, but this time it doesn't hit Tori. A green haired woman fades into view behind him, like a spectre, and quickly pulls him into some kind of ephemeral realm, escaping into the ether.

Maro approaches, his rifle blazing after chasing Tori off. You fall to your knees, and he stands over you... his face dim as he notices the timer above your head. "Well... graduation is postponed. We have more pressing matters."

From behind, you notice a shorter figure approaching... but your vision is blurry. The shock from that encounter... it hasn't fully registered with you yet. But her voice snaps you back to reality, quick.

"Ryoji...?" Saki mutters, clutching her hand to her chest in shock, her other hand pressed to her lips. She rushes to you. "Ryoji, what happened?!"

>J-Just a roadblock, Sak... nothing to worry ourselves over.
>I just got a new reason to kill that guy... not that I needed it.
>Sak... I... I'm sorry, I screwed up...

>>4604555
>>I just got a new reason to kill that guy... not that I needed it.

>>4604555
>>I just got a new reason to kill that guy... not that I needed it.
FUCKING SUPER MARIO BULLSHIT

>>4604555
>J-Just a roadblock, Sak... nothing to worry ourselves over.

>>4604555
>Sak... I... I'm sorry, I screwed up...
Should've jumped the gate when you could Ryoji

Calling for
>I just got a new reason to kill that guy... not that I needed it.

Writing now.

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>I just got a new reason to kill that guy... not that I needed it.

As Saki's eyes focus in on the numbers above your head, her breathing becomes heavier. "No... no! RYOJI!"

It takes some time to calm everyone down, but soon a meeting is called in the dorms.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TYXupyFb3A8

You're doing your best to keep calm, and try not to lose it. Fourty-eight hours to save your life... you need to remain focused.

"Ryoji..." Ken mutters. "I... I'm so sorry."

"... Where were you?" you mutter. "You were late for our meeting."

"I..." Ken sighs. "My dad wanted to treat me to lunch... I didn't think the meeting was that important and could wait... and I... I... I should have been there."

"It's okay," you reply in a sullen tone. "There was no way you could have known that would happen."

Raiden sighs. "It was a stroke of luck that I even managed to stumble on it..." he explains. "Not that it I did much good... I still owe you, Ryoji. We'll get Tori."

Rini punches up her fist, holding back tears. "Damn that bastard. Who does he think he is, doing this to you?!"

Kosuke just places a hand on your shoulder. He's not one to talk at a time like this.

You're trying to keep focused... but seeing the faces of your friends makes you lose that focus. They're looking at you like they've lost you, like there really is no hope. You can't blame them...

Chihiro can't hold back the tears, sobbing openly. "M-my dearest Makoto trapped in the Darkworld... and my dear Ryoji cursed like this... i-it's not fair! This world isn't fair!"

"The future isn't set in stone," Sayeka tells you, while comforting Chihiro. "We know that well."

Of course Sayeka would be one of the calm and defiant ones... helps that she can't see the dwindling clock above your head.

Akemi is sniffling as tears stream down her face like a fountain... but she keeps a smile on her face. "Ryojiiii...!" She sniffles, keeping her head up despite the flowing water like a jet-stream. "I'm smiling... because I know you'll be okay! I know you won't be taken by this!"

Akio stares at you, his eyes wide. His ball clenched up, he seems frozen like a statue. A dwindling clock, counting down to the last days... you suppose he can relate. Rei looks at you in the same way. She's one who made it out alive on the other end... looking at her gives you at least some semblance of hope.

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As Nanami instinctively hugs into you while crying, Saki returns to the dorm lounge, laying out a large sheet of paper over the table. She takes a deep breath, collecting herself, then gets down to business.

"We have forty-eight hours."

Saki quickly glimpses at the clock over your head... and you can see the pain on her face as she winces at it, before returning. "To be exact, we are twenty minutes and seventeen seconds into that deadline. We have to prepare to track down the remaining members of the Order, which I've already set Reiji on, preparing to fight them, somehow killing Tori enough to break the curse he's placed on Ryoji. It seems difficult, but if we use the time we have to focus-"

"Time you have?" Ken's father points out. "What time do you have, exactly?"

"Forty seven hours, thirty-nine minutes and thirty seconds now," Satomi points out in a matter of fact tone. "And who are you, anyway?"

"Kenshiro Tajiri," he replies. "And I know exactly where that son of a bitch is hiding out."

You turn your head to him. "What... how?"

"My business partner, remember?" he notes. "Meiji got stuck in with that cult... meaning he had all the details on them. I know exactly where their second hideout is. And if you hope to beat that guy, we're going there now."

"Are you joking?" Saki replies. "We're woefully underprepared! He said the Order is still alive, who knows the kind of manpower Tori has-"

"A bluff!" Kenshiro replies. "Don't you know a bluff when you see it? He comes in here, waving his big dick around, flashing his ass... it's all a big show. He's bluffing you."

"And if he isn't?" Saki asks. "What then?"

"Then sure..." Kenshiro raises his arms, his chains rattling as he does. "Wait around here, draw up a spreadsheet, make sure you're completely ready... then realise you've wasted what little time your boyfriend has left."

You shake your head. "That's not..."

"He has a point, doesn't he?" Ken points out. "I... I mean, two days is no time at all. Every second we spend here is wasting time that Ryoji doesn't have."

Akira pipes up. "Rushing in unprepared will be more disastrous to everyone, not just Ryoji."

"But..." Ken mutters.

>No, we need a plan. We can't go gung-ho... being cocky got me into this mess in the first place.
>He does have a point, Sak... what good is a plan if we don't have time to enact it?

>>4604659
>>No, we need a plan. We can't go gung-ho... being cocky got me into this mess in the first place.

>>4604659
>>He does have a point, Sak... what good is a plan if we don't have time to enact it?
OH BOY WORRY
Also Kenshiro is fucking rad

>>4604659
>>He does have a point, Sak... what good is a plan if we don't have time to enact it?
He's so gonna betray us.

>>4604659
>He does have a point, Sak... what good is a plan if we don't have time to enact it?
Kenshiro being a spy is so obvious that only an idiot would trust him, which means he can't be one because he'd immediately be found out. Unless he's banking on it being so obvious so we don't realise he actually really is a spy.

>>4604659
>He does have a point, Sak... what good is a plan if we don't have time to enact it?
Please Kenshiro, please be one of the cool demons.

Calling for
>He does have a point, Sak... what good is a plan if we don't have time to enact it?

Writing now.

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>He does have a point, Sak... what good is a plan if we don't have time to enact it?

"Exactly," Kenshiro points out. "You're a smart one. You understand the weight of the situation."

"No... NO!" Saki exclaims, her trembling hands crumpling the corners of the papers. "Ryoji... I have to put my foot down on this. We're all worried. We're all scared... but that doesn't mean we can act without thinking this through! You're our lead strategist!"

"And my strategy is to head in there and kill that bastard-"

"Because you're letting the fear do the talking!" Saki retorts. "That's exactly what he would want you to do, isn't it? You go in there alone and you're walking into a deathtrap. I... I can't allow any of us to be that reckless!"

"I hate to say it..." Rei replies. "But... Kobashi's right. I know full well the kind of problems rushing headfirst into a wall can cause."

Kenshiro grunts. "You're free to stay behind," he notes to Saki. "Keep waiting and let that boy waste away... but regardless of what happens to him, I'm still going. I have my own revenge to settle. If none of you are going to join me..."

Kenshiro turns and begins to make his move... but Ken speaks up.

"D-dad, wait! I'm coming too!"

"Ken?" Nanami mutters. "What? Why are you...?"

"He's right, isn't he?" Ken argues, as he moves towards the door. "We don't have time. If we want to save Ryoji, we have to act now."

Nanami shakes her head. "N-no! Ken... you'll be killed!"

"And I'm willing to!" Ken fires back. "For Ryoji's sake... isn't that justice? For all he's done for us?"

As Ken walks away, you have a very clear realisation.

You know Ken Tajiri pretty well. You know the conviction he has.

... And as he makes the argument to go and run to his father, is the first time you notice that conviction is gone.

Ken goes running, and you follow.

You end up at the gate of the school, where Ken is standing before it, his father walking into town in front of him. As Ken hesitates, Kenshiro doesn't even wait on his son... he plows forward towards his goal.

"Ken!" you call out, following him.

"This is my fault, Ryoji..." he mutters. "If I was there..."

"Ken, are you really rushing in there? Just the two of you? Without a plan or an idea of how to handle this guy? How to defeat him?"

"What choice do I have?"

You remember standing by the wall, by these gates before... that day you were standing in Ken's position. "Ken... you can try to say this is for me," you reply. "But you know this isn't a good idea. You're more level-headed than that."

"How do you know?"

"Because you're doing exactly what I want to do!" you point out. "And that's not a good sign... that's not you."

Ken pauses. "It's the right thing to do, isn't it?"

"Or is it what keeps you with your dad? Be honest with me."

"Cut it out, Ryoji..." he mutters back.

>Just tell me the truth, Ken. It's not for me. It's for him.
>Come back with us, Ken. You're smarter than this.
>If you're going... then I'm going with you.

>>4604719
>>Just tell me the truth, Ken. It's not for me. It's for him.

>>4604719
>>Just tell me the truth, Ken. It's not for me. It's for him.
WORRY

>>4604719
>Just tell me the truth, Ken. It's not for me. It's for him.
Well looking on the bright side, the fact Kenshiro's just going straight over to Tori instead of trying to talk Ken into it probably means he really does want Tori dead and isn't trying to split the class.

>>4604719
>Come back with us, Ken. You're smarter than this.

>>4604719
>>Just tell me the truth, Ken. It's not for me. It's for him.
Why make us vote for a course of action if in the end we get railroaded into the other one?

Calling for
>Just tell me the truth, Ken. It's not for me. It's for him.

Writing now.

File: Ryo18.jpg (556 KB, 689x970)

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>Just tell me the truth, Ken. It's not for me. It's for him.

"What?" Ken mutters. "Ryoji, what are you-"

"You're following your dad," you reply. "Everything you're doing right now... it's about being with him. Protecting him."

Ken sighs. "Look, I get that you're frustrated and scared... I am too. I'm just... I'm looking at that clock and-"

"-And you looking at what little time left you have with Kenshiro," you point out. "This man's been gone from your life for years, we don't even know if we can trust him... and you're just going to follow him into what could be a death-trap?"

"Cut it out-"

"You're just afraid of losing him again-"

"Why wouldn't I be?!" Ken snaps. "Huh? What's so wrong with that, Ryoji? I... he's my dad, and... I already lost him once. Knowing he might be innocent, knowing that I might have been wrong... of course I'm following him for his sake... but for yours too. Ryoji... I don't want to lose my best friend and my dad at the same time..."

You sigh. "I know... but think through what you're doing."

"You said he had a point!" Ken argues. "You said it yourself!"

"Yeah, but..." you mutter. "I want to spring into action as soon as possible too. Of course I do, but there's gotta be a line between waiting too long and just jumping in without a plan, without the others!"

"Ryoji..." Ken fires back. "Every second we waste talking, I can see it ticking away from your life. I know in my heart... I trust my dad. And if you trust me, then you'd believe in him too. Friends trust eachother. We always have."

"Ken..."

"You can have your reservations..." Ken replies. "The others can have theirs. But I know the right thing to do. Ryoji... I'm going to save your life, right now."

>No... WE'RE going. You're right, I'm coming to.
>Ken... think this through.

>>4604815
>>Ken... think this through.

>>4604815
>>No... WE'RE going. You're right, I'm coming to.
not gonna abandon the boy

>>4604815
>>No... WE'RE going. You're right, I'm coming to.

>>4604815
>No... WE'RE going. You're right, I'm coming to.
Well fuck, talk about a rock and a hard place. At least 3 is more effective than 2 I guess?

>>4604815
>No... WE'RE going. You're right, I'm coming to.
Reminder this could've all have been avoided if someone bought a padlock.

Calling for
>No... WE'RE going. You're right, I'm coming to.

Writing now.

File: Ryo09.jpg (52 KB, 1280x720)

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>No... WE'RE going. You're right, I'm coming too.

"Ryoji?" Ken looks at you in shock. "What do you-"

"I don't care if you're doing this for me, or your dad..." you reply. "But either way, I can't let you just... walk away like that. You can't go alone."

Ken cracks a small smile. "Through thick and thin, huh?"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sySlY1XKlhM

You nod back. "We can't shake the other off."

Ken looks up towards the school. "But... what about the others? What about Saki?"

"They'll be right behind us," you reply. "They'll be the cavalry to back us up with a solid plan that isn't just bashing our heads through walls."

Ken turns his attention back to you. "Right... of course. Ryoji..."

"What?"

"I'm sorry," Ken replies. "About not being there."

You shake your head. "Can it. You'll always be there..."

The two of you share a brief smile, before looking out towards the path ahead... over the wall, through the gate.

"You still see your dad?"

"Yeah..." Ken replies. "We spent so long talking he could have gotten away from us... but I can still see him."

"Oh good," you smirk. "For a moment there, I thought we were in trouble."

"Huh?"

"It's..." you smile to yourself.

"It's nothing, forget it."

END OF EPISODE 41

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>Ending Theme
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F64yFFnZfkI

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

>Twitter
https://twitter.com/bookerman32

>Discord
https://discord.gg/yz7sDra

Thanks for playing! Next thread will be up hopefully in the next week! Follow the Twitter for any updates!

>Player Questions
What are your thoughts on Kenshiro and Tori?

>>4604870
really want kenshiro to be a cool dude
Tori a fuck but a good threatening fuck

>>4604870
Kenshiro gonna fist some fools or kick them.
Need to eliminate Tori.
And Ryoji finally went over the gate.

>>4604870
Thanks for running Booker.

>PQ
I fully expect the Tori fight to involve someone hitting him so fucking hard it literally kills him multiple times and for him to pull out a secret sacrifice when we have him on the ropes.

As for Kenshiro, I don't think he's a traitor but at this point I expect him and Ken to end up fighting over whatever his revenge will actually involve.

>>4604870
Wew Ryoji
Just sat there and let the villain monologue for so long Raiden had to show up and actually do something about.
Rip that Rocket firing gauntlet Akemi built for him completely useless if he's just gonna sit around doing nothing.