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“Kazuma… there’s a very special guest here…”

Namika holds the child, who has fallen fast asleep. Until recently, the babe could not stop crying.

Kankuro carries his young son, bringing him into the room. “Do you recognize her?”

“Buh-buh…” Kazuma babbles, yet to reach his first word.

“That’s right,” Kankuro sits on the sofa, the two babies sitting on laps opposite them. “It’s your cousin Kiriko. Your best friend.”

“Bah…” Kazuma drools.

Kankuro frowns. “Yes… usually your aunt and uncle will be here too…”

“Minato… Kotone…” Namika sighs.

“You have a sister now…” Kankuro gives his son a reassuring smile. “Well… I hate to break it to you, buster… but she’s the older sibling.”

“I’m sure he can handle being a little brother,” Namika notes. “I’d rather an older sister than a younger.”

“Don’t worry… you and Kiriko are twins,” Kankuro addresses his son. “Not in birth, but in spirit.”

Namika holds the young girl tight. She stirs and whimpers in her sleep. “She’s not used to my touch…” Namika mutters, tears filling her eyes.

Kankuro’s own eyes begin to water. “Listen to me, son. Loss comes fast, and it comes hard. Your uncle and aunt are gone… our friends are gone… but you’re here. Kiriko is here. Bad times, misfortune… it will come in like a storm. And there’s nothing you can do but brace yourself, grit your teeth and… endure. But when the storm clears, the sun will be there. Behind the dark clouds, the sun is still there. Every time.”

Kankuro sits his son up again, the baby examining the new member of the family. “The storm came in… but at the end we have a gift. Kazuma… you may not understand these words now, but you can listen. You can always listen…”

“Kankuro…”

Kankuro gives a small laugh to himself. “Kazuma, you two are here for each-other. When you fall, she’ll pick you up. When she’s being picked on, you’ll stand up for her. When you seem lost or scared, you’ll turn to the other, always at your side. You’ll fight for your family, fight for your sister, no matter how great the storm… every time, you will fight. Because… nothing worth having in life comes easy.”

Kiriko lets out a yawn. The baby is stirring awake. The girl reaches out a hand, and the young Kaz reaches out, gripping her thumb tightly. Joining the siblings together.

Kankuro lets out a small exhale. “You understand, Kazuma. You understand.”

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>Present Day

“This is bad…” Ninsei mutters.

You watch as the wild Kishin Kazuma wails on Mayu… on The Frost. The two are going all out, destroying their surroundings… and you’re caught on the sidelines.

“Did I just hear you say you’re going to bring them back?” Gado yells at Roka. “Are you insane?”

“Do you have an alternative?” Roka asks. “Is there any part of you that’s considering running away?”

“Hell no,” Gado replies. “But we can do anything to stop them. They’re out of our league… any of us tries to step in, we’ll be crushed. Even Act couldn’t handle Mayu… just one of them. Now, they’re both going at it.”

“They aren’t going to stop themselves,” Roka points out.

Gado shakes his head. “I know you’re full of yourself… but it’s way too much for even you, pal. And I don’t really want you to get killed.”

“I know…” Roka replies. “It’s a job for Red Mask.”

Tami lolls her head back. “Okay, soooo… he’s lost his mind.”

You can’t help but chuckle. “Red Mask, huh? I don’t think even he can do it alone.”

“Yeah…” Roka looks back to you and offers a hand. “Are you ready to help out, Pink Mask?”

“… Always.”

You can’t leave Kazuma to this. You can’t leave Mayu to this.

You’re going to fight. Every time… you’ll fight.

You leap into action, with Roka at your side. Some shards of ice fly in your direction, and you pull Roka out of the way. “Careful,” you warn. “Even when they’re focused on each-other, we can still get caught in the crossfire.”

“If we’re going to stop the battle… we’ll have to focus on one of them,” Roka notes. “Any ideas?”

>There’s a better chance of us returning Kaz to his senses. Let’s focus on him first.
>Mayu is the major threat. We can use Kaz in this state to soften her, then take her down.

>>4975234
>Mayu is the major threat. We can use Kaz in this state to soften her, then take her down.
Returning Kaz to normal pretty much makes him useless in this fight, got to keep him on the WILD RIDE

>>4975234
>>Mayu is the major threat. We can use Kaz in this state to soften her, then take her down.

>>4975234
>>Mayu is the major threat. We can use Kaz in this state to soften her, then take her down.

>>4975234
>There’s a better chance of us returning Kaz to his senses. Let’s focus on him first.

Calling for
>Mayu is the major threat. We can use Kaz in this state to soften her, then take her down.

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 69 (1d100)

>>4975268

Rolled 91 (1d100)

>>4975268

>>4975269
Whew, lad.

Rolled 59 (1d100)

>>4975268

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>91

"Maybe with Asai helping... in his own way..." Roka notes. "But there's one problem."

You nod. "Even getting close to Mayu?"

Roka nods. "Yeah. That."

You look out towards your friend... or rather the thing with control over her body, twisting it into a dark and icy visage. Around it is a field of ice. That thing, The Frost... it even controls the air around it. Even Act-sensei was nothing compared to its power...

"How are we going to get through all that?" Roka grunts.

You smirk. "Shouldn't it be obvious? I'm gonna take you there."

You reach out a hand, as you turn your head back to the others. "Gado! Tami! Provide cover fire!"

Tami and Gado nod, before Ninsei steps forward. "You think Abe-san can do it alone? No... you need two directions. Mayu is going to wipe out Roka if he's in her line of sight, she's going to have to be attacked from two fronts. And if you're the delivery service..."

Ninsei steps further, joining you and Roka.

"Hey, what happened to the kaiju battle?" you joke. "You seemed pretty hopeless before..."

Ninsei turns his head away. "I'm done being useless. If I can't hope for a greater result, then I'm just an anchor. What good am I?"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-Ltm-3lmss

"Ninsei..."

"I've already lost before..." Ninsei mutters. "I'm not losing a pair of friends too."

Roka grunts. "You've finally got guts, huh?"

He turns his head back to you. "Get us to her, and I'll take her down."

You grab both by the hands, and begin your teleportation concept. While Kaz deflects ice whips holding him back in his rage, you slip into the field of ice. Immediately, you're hit with cold front.

"Dammit..." Roka shivers.

Within seconds, you can already feel yourself stiffening up. You have to keep moving.

As you do, you notice Roka steaming up. He's using that technique... it's keeping the three of you from freezing over.

"Fire me in from the left," Ninsei notes. "Abe, you take the right."

You teleport to the side and launch Ninsei at Mayu. He readies his dagger... but quickly is spotted by The Frost, who deflects his attack with a small wall of ice. Ninsei tries to power through, but Mayu pushes back with a cold front that sends Ninsei flying. You're concerned... but he provided you with the perfect opening.

You launch Roka in from the other side, and the big ape makes it to Mayu. Going for a knock-out blow with the hilt of his blade, he makes contact... with another layer of ice. Still, he got the advantage, and is beginning to push through after taking The Frost unawares.

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"You continue to fight for this vessel..." The Frost states. "You understand, Mayu Nakatoni harbours no love, no care for any of you. She does not even understand these concepts. She can only conjure up a facsimile, a replication of true emotions she can never experience."

"Do you think I give a damn about that!?" Roka yells. "I don't give a damn what Nakatoni thinks. I respect her! There are people who love her! She can be a dumbass all she likes, it doesn't wash away the truth!"

"You..." The Frost grimaces, baring her sharpened teeth as Roka begins to crack through the barrier. "You are but an ant. A small snowflake that will be encompassed in an avalanche. Do you truly think you can make a difference against me?"

Roka shakes his head. "Nah... not me."

Roka leaps aside... leaving the opening for Kaz. Kishin Kazuma lets out a roar as he collides head on with The Frost, smashing through the ice barrier and sending The Frost flying several feet and collapsing onto her back.

The first time she's been knocked down... that's progress.

"GRAAAAAAAAAAAAH!" Kishin Kazuma lets out another roar as he continues his pursuit.

"Ninsei, are you okay?" Tami yells.

Ninsei weakly throws up a thumbs-up from the ground.

"The Frost isn't indestructible" Roka notes. "Good to know. But we've got another problem."

You look to see the fight continuing.

"We can weaken Nakatoni all we like..." Roka observes. "But Asai doesn't even know to pull his punches in this state. We have to stop him from killing her..."

"Defeating The Frost...." you mutter. "Killing Mayu... I can't let that happen. I especially can't let Kaz do it..."

"How are we going to stop that?"

>We have to tackle Kaz down, calm his senses.
>It's risky... but I might be able to talk sense into him if I get close.

>>4975313
>>It's risky... but I might be able to talk sense into him if I get close.

>>4975313
>>It's risky... but I might be able to talk sense into him if I get close.
Makin that progress

>>4975313
>It's risky... but I might be able to talk sense into him if I get close.
Get those low rolls ready guys, we're going for a full team wipe

>>4975313
>We have to tackle Kaz down, calm his senses.

>>4975313
>>It's risky... but I might be able to talk sense into him if I get close.
Believe in the power of non blood related siblings

Calling for
>It's risky... but I might be able to talk sense into him if I get close.

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 34 (1d100)

>>4975355
Hopefully Kiriko doesn’t make everything worse

Rolled 94 (1d100)

>>4975355

Rolled 17 (1d100)

>>4975355
No whammy no whammy

Rolled 39 (1d100)

>>4975355
Fucking CAPTCHA

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>94

"Get close, huh?" Roka mutters. "And how are we supposed to do that?"

"Just... like how we got to Mayu?" you shrug. "It'll work again, right?"

Roka shakes his head. "She was stationary behind a forceful. That little midget freak is wilding out all over the place. We're going to have to slow him down somehow-"

"Already on it," Tami interrupts, with the string pulled back on her bow. "HEY KAZ! Consider this payback for breaking this in the first place!"

Kazuma turns his head to the noise, only to get hit with an arrow that unleashes a thick sludge, wrapping around and constraining his arms.

"That's not gonna hold him long!" Tami points out.

You nod, and quickly teleport to him.

"Kaz!" you exclaim... but you're not sure how to get through to him. His eyes... they aren't like Kaz's eyes. The red in them is more pronounced, the pupils wider... and his face is stretched out into an angry grimace. He's more like a wild animal that your brother.

You place your hands on his shoulders. "Kaz, can you understand me at all?"

"Careful!" Roka warns.

"Grrraaaaagh..." Kazuma growls. He can't even speak.

You grimace yourself, before doing what comes naturally.

Headbutting him.

He clonk your head with his, letting out a yelp. "Yow! You dummy!"

Kaz tilts his head back and pauses.

"I know you understand me!" you yell. "You need to get your act together! That's Mayu! That... thing is possessing her, but you know we can get her back! You just have to hold back, just a little."

Kazuma doesn't respond.

"Come on..." you mutter. "Come on, you idiot! Don't lose your cool out here!"

You pause... Kazuma stares at you, his eyes beginning to soften.

Hesitantly, you raise a thumbs-up. You give a smile.

"Kiriko..." you hear him mutter... before his eyes return to their wild state and he breaks free.

"LOOK OUT!" Roka yells.

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Kaz grips your outstretched thumb tightly... and pulls you away, raising his sword to deflect and attack from The Frost that had been aimed for your back.

You fall to the ground, but quickly dust yourself off as Kazuma charges back at Mayu.

"It didn't work..." Roka mutters.

"No," you reply, observing Kazuma's movements. He's still in that form... he's still that wild side of him... but his movements are more deliberate. Focused. "I think I did... just a little. But maybe it's enough."

You watch as The Frost and Kishin Kazuma come to blows once more. Kaz has the speed advantage, but Mayu's constant walls of defence are able to keep even him at bay. He breaks through two, and Mayu has three more take their place. No matter what he does, no matter what any of you do... he can't get through to Mayu.

"Are you okay?"

"We... we need to stop this fight..." you mutter. "Sooner, rather than later."

"We're nothing compared to them..." Gado notes. "I've felt that strength first hand. I can still barely move. Ninsei can't either..."

"They're destroying everything around them..." Roka replies. "That field of ice is getting wider. Even beyond their sake... we need to stop the spread."

Roka pauses for a moment, before turning his head back. "Gado... take care of Maita-san."

You perk up. "What's that supposed to mean? You better not be planning anything stupid."

"Not stupid... reckless, definitely," Roka replies. "This isn't going to end until someone goes down. Someone has to get in-between them."

"Are you crazy?" you ask. "You'll just be taken out in the crossfire!"

"Maybe," Roka explains. "But we're not going to put a stop to anything zipping in and out and picking away in parts. Strength has to be met with strength... I'm the only one who has a shot."

>You're not doing it alone. We already agreed on this, Red Mask.
>Dammit... you better make it out okay. I'm not going to forgive you otherwise.
>You're not doing anything reckless. You're going to stay back with us!

>>4975384
>>You're not doing it alone. We already agreed on this, Red Mask.

>>4975384
>>Dammit... you better make it out okay. I'm not going to forgive you otherwise.

>>4975384
>You're not doing anything reckless. You're going to stay back with us!

>>4975384
>Dammit... you better make it out okay. I'm not going to forgive you otherwise.

>>4975384
>>Dammit... you better make it out okay. I'm not going to forgive you otherwise.
Ok Kiriko's time in the danger spotlight is over, time for Roka's

Calling for
>Dammit... you better make it out okay. I'm not going to forgive you otherwise.

Writing now.

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>Dammit... you better make it out okay. I'm not going to forgive you otherwise.

Roka, ever stern, somehow cracks a small smile... or perhaps an overconfident smirk. He gently places an arm on his shoulder. "Come on... I wouldn't be able to forgive myself either."

"Roka..." you mutter, using his real name for once.

"I would never..." he continues. "I would never... let Asai beat me again, no matter to the form."

"Oh."

"What?" Roka asks.

You chuckle. "Nevermind. I... know you can do it."

Roka nods and rushes off into the fray.

Gado turns to you, still clutching his wounds. "You've... got a lot of faith in him."

"You don't?"

Gado shakes his head. "I've had faith in a lot of people... they've tended to let me down."

"That includes yourself, doesn't it?" you ask. "Gado... I'm sure Kuin is out there. Alive, waiting for us."

"Even if that were true..." Gado mutters. "We're not getting to her any time soon, are we?"

You shake your head. "You don't get it, huh?"

"What?"

"It's not just the ape I have faith in," you explain. "It's all three."

Gado lets out a scoff. "That so?"

"We need Mayu and Kaz to come back to their senses," you explain. "And there's nothing the both of them love more than competing... with Roka, especially."

Gado chuckles. "That's it, huh?"

A large blast from The Frost, and Kazuma is sent flying some distance. He flips back, landing cleanly on his feet, before making the charge once more.

"GRAAAAAAAH!" Kaz exclaims.

"Perish," The Frost commands.

"SHUT UP!"

Roka cuts the pair's attacks off in the middle deflecting both... in his hand, Act-sensei's sword, allowing him to take on both sides.

Roka grunts and breathes heavily. He's nervous... but you can tell he's psyching himself up.

"The three of us..." Roka mutters. "All year, we've been fighting and fighting and fighting... all trying to come out on top. Well.... Asai, Nakatoni, Abe... Shadow Style, Frost Style... No Style."

Roka twirls both swords as he darts his head between the two more powerful figures in this newly created stand-off. "It. All. Ends. NOW."

You sure hope that's true.

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That'll be all for tonight, will be picking up sometime tomorrow, with a bonus side update in-between!

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>Risa

“Why am I seeing you… you of all people?”

The vision of Katsuyori shrugs. “Don’t ask me. You’re the one imagining me. Clearly it’s because there’s nobody more important to you, princess.”

“Stop it…” Risa mutters.

Ukon turns his head back. “Risa, are you okay?”

Risa shakes her head. “Hm?”

“You’ve been zoned out for a while,” Ukon points out.

“Which isn’t great!” Mai beams a nervous smile. “Being focused is really important, you know!”

“Especially when their life hangs in your hands…” Katsuyori notes.

Risa winces.

“That’s what this is, isn’t it?” he continues. “Those two are soft, squishy and dumb… and you can’t even unleash the form that’ll let you protect them. You’re afraid out here… afraid you can’t save them.”

“S-shut up…”

“Like you couldn’t save me.”

Risa falls to a knee, as Ukon looks concerned. “Risa?”

“I… I’m just not feeling well…” Risa notes.

“I’m not surprised,” Mai places her hands on her hips. “The air in this place is so thick, and there’s all that smoke coming from that castle over there.”

“Castle?” Risa and Ukon both perk up their heads.

“Yeah, a castle,” Mai points over the cliff-face they’ve reached, providing a decent vantage point. “Right there.”

Risa and Ukon look at the fortress with fear and concern. “Hmm…” Risa mutters.

“Reminds me of Aoki’s fort…” Mai blurts out, before turning to Risa. “Ah, sorry!”

“It’s okay…” Risa notes.

The vision of Katsuyori shakes his head. “Looks nothing like it! The General’s fort had barbed wire tips to the walls, that has spiked poles. Totally different.”

“Hey…” Ukon mutters. “Down there, in the distance… isn’t that…?”

“CHUICHI?!” Mai exclaims. “He’s… he’s being attacked!”

“Kaiya’s right there,” Ukon notes. “Why isn’t she doing anything?!”

Chuichi in trouble… Risa pauses… he’s too far gone. Can she make it to him in time? No… she can’t. She can’t reach it in time, just like she couldn’t with…

“Risa…” the vision of Kats speaks to her. “You can’t just freeze up, you know that, right? Come on princess, get your head-“

“I thought I heard talking.”

Rising up from the cliff-edge, levitating and pushing Mai back… a familiar dark haired young man. Well… not so much a young man, but a monster wearing the flesh of one.

“N-no…”

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Tsuki stands on the ledge, his blade hanging over his shoulder. “I could never forget that squealing, irritating voice. Mai Tamuro… every word you speak is like a drill to the skull.”

“How are you back?!” Ukon exclaims.

Tsuki rolls his eyes. “You didn’t honestly expect me to disappear forever, did you?”

“Well… I hoped,” Ukon admits.

Instantly, Risa raises her gun and fires.

She hits Tsuki in the shoulder once, but he deflects the rest of the shots. He kicks Ukon back before unleashing a wave of dark energy that sends the three of them flying backwards and landing on their back.

“See, that’s just rude,” Tsuki points out. “You really thought I was going to hurt the three of you?”

“You weren’t?” Mai asks.

“Well, I am now.”

“Oh…” Mai mutters, before leaning towards Risa. “Hey… this would be a very nice time for your super duper robot form.”

“I… I can’t…” Risa mutters. “I’m trying, but… it’s not coming…”

Tsuki chuckles. “What are you muttering about? Last words, perhaps? I love the new hair by the way, Aoki. Quite the choice.”

“Shut up.”

“Shut up?” Tsuki shakes his head. “That’s your choice of last words?”

“Nobody is speaking their last words.”

Risa picks herself up. “Come on, Princess… you’ve got this…”

“You intend to fight me?” Tsuki asks.

“No…” Risa replies. “I intend to kill you.”

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>Years ago

Roka’s mind, as it often does, tracked back to his younger brother.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7aJ6v40BZCQ

He still remembers the day the little squirt was first born. Seeing him in the hospital… Roka was always tall for his size, but that baby looked so frail and small, like a bug.

He’d always been sickly. Ryuusuke could never fend for himself out there. A stiff breeze was always too much for him.

Roka had to be strong on his behalf. Watch out for him… be a hero.

Of course, Roka was just a likely to get carried away in childish fantasies as his little brother. He was a bigger kid, but a kid nonetheless. But even when he was pudgy, even when he was out of shape, even when he’d have his ass kicked by bullies each and every day… Roka never stopped trying. He did all he could to make sure the ass kicking were on him, not Ryuusuke.

They all mocked him. Even his own cousin. His own parents, even his uncle could only humor him so far… Roka knew that just playing the hero could only take him so far. An empty gesture… and there was nothing more pathetic than pretending to help someone when he was far too weak to.

So he trained. Every day he trained. He found a trainer, a mean old bastard who would never give him a break, kicked his ass, and left the young Roka with marks and scars that will never heal… his facial scars alone would mean he would never be a looker for the ladies…

“You could be doing so much more.”

Kanashiro spoke those words to him one day, after a particular training session left Roka unable to stand. When this happened, Kanashiro would refuse to help him to his feet. He would simply whack Roka with a stick every minute until he picked himself up.

When those words came, forty minutes had passed since Roka had been taken to the floor.

“I can’t.”

“And why is that?” Kanashiro asked him. “You’re that desperate to emulate your uncle? To replicate a masked hero you saw on television? It’s fiction, boy. Your fat ass isn’t fit for this world you’ve invented.”

“It’s not about a fantasy…” Roka muttered, tears filling his eyes, feeling pathetic. “My bro…”

“That kid will die no matter what you do,” Kanashiro reminds him. “You think you can fight off the disease like it’s a punching bag? You can’t stop his fate.”

Roka sniffles. “I’m n-not that stupid…”

“Then why can’t you quit?”

“It’s about his smile…” Roka groans as he tries one more time to pick himself up. This time, he manages to lift a shoulder, but stiffens up once more. “He… he doesn’t smile at anything. He… curls his lips when he’s supposed to… but there’s nothing behind the eyes. The only times he really, truly smiles… is when he’s looking up at me. I… I can’t let him down… for that smile, I’ll fight everytime.”

“You’ll accomplish nothing.”

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Roka shakes his head. “You old fart… it’s not about what I accomplish or not… it’s the attempt. If it’s the right thing to do… I’ll try every damn time.”

Kanashido ponders to himself. “Nothing worth having in life comes easy…”

“Hm?”

“My old student used to say that,” Kanashido replies. “He’d give me the same spiel you did… but I think you might have a better chance of living up to your words than Kankuro Asai.”

“What do you mean?”

Kanashido smiles, his wrinkled face tightening with glee. “Look at yourself, Roka Abe. You’re already standing.”

>Back to the present

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWl1ekjk2aQ

Roka clenches his fists and grimaces.

He just threw himself to the lions.

“I have no chance of winning, do I…?” he mutters to himself. “I’m throwing my life away… all for nothing… just to try to save two damned idiots… idiots I don’t even like… but it’s worth it! I’ll try every time!”

“Roka…” you mutter, as Gado pulls you back from the action.

“Cease your blathering,” The Frost mutters. “Hmm… Roka Abe. Mayu Nakatoni states that you are a respectful fighter and a decent person… however, you have caused pain to Kazuma Asai. In her mind, she has conflicted feelings. Respect, friendship, distrust, resentment… these feelings must be eliminated.”

The Frost unleashes a wave of ice, but Roka leaps back, instead choosing to target Kazuma.

“Come alive, Asai!” Roka exclaims, as the two clash swords. Kazuma lets out a howl and swings his blade with enough force to create a wave of wind jetting towards Roka… who leaps up. Frost and Kazuma’s attacks meet in the middle, creating a blast in the middle that sends all participants flying.

Roka lands on his feet, having prepared for the assault.

“So he’s going to use himself as a target?” Gado mutters. “What a mad idiot…”

Roka readies his blade, as the two out of control forces pick themselves up in turn.

“Here we go…” Roka mutters to himself.

>Mayu’s ice will be able to temporarily lock Kazuma in place, better to lure him into an attack first.
>Kazuma is the only one who can break through The Frost’s defenses. Better to provide him an opening to do so.

>>4977473
>Mayu’s ice will be able to temporarily lock Kazuma in place, better to lure him into an attack first.
Time to activate Roka's meat shield powers

>>4977473
>>Mayu’s ice will be able to temporarily lock Kazuma in place, better to lure him into an attack first.

>>4977473
>Kazuma is the only one who can break through The Frost’s defenses. Better to provide him an opening to do so.
Berserker Kaz is Competent Kaz

Calling for
>Mayu’s ice will be able to temporarily lock Kazuma in place, better to lure him into an attack first.

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 99 (1d100)

>>4977509

Rolled 42 (1d100)

>>4977509
Can Roka...

>>4977510
Never mind

Rolled 44 (1d100)

>>4977510
Well shit

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>99

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f1kpZJvOL2s

Roka brandishes both blades as he turns his attention to Kazuma. "I'm going to hate this..." he mutters, before running towards the wild-eyed Kazuma, and clashing blades with him. Kazuma easily pushes him back... normally the two would be evenly matched, with Roka having the strength advantage, but in this state there's no contest on who carries more power between the two. It's gotta be a real hit to Roka's pride to concede a clash with Kazuma... but it's all in the name of drawing him closer to the ice.

"I see his plan here..." you note.

Gado raises an eyebrow. "This guy has plans?"

You nod. "He's an idiot in basically every category except one... he knows how to plan a battle."

Kazuma leaps forward, clashing with Roka once more. You can tell Roka isn't used to wielding two swords, but he holds Act's katana behind his back all the same to account for any errant blasts from the opponent on his other side.

Kazuma pushes Roka back, as the big guy keeps strafing back. "You're my eyes..." he states, addressing you.

"His eyes..." you mutter. "Right... I get it."

As Roka is pushed back closer to the field of ice with the frozen maiden inside, you turn your head to Tami. "You wouldn't happen to have any of your explosive arrows, would you?"

"How explosive?" Tami asks.

"Get them ready."

File: Roka07.jpg (245 KB, 512x708)

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Roka keeps getting pushed back, further and further, his feet coming ever closer to the patch of ice...

One step away... he can't see behind him with his focus fully on sustaining Kazuma's assault. He's backing up, only one step away from touching the ice...

"NOW!" you declare, as Tami lets loose with an arrow that lands right behind Roka. It explodes, launching the shards of ice up into the air.

"An attack?" The Frost states, alarmed at the assault on her domain. "No more."

She launches with a beam of ice, aimed directly ahead. Kishin Kazuma leaps up to avoid... but Roka charges head on into the blast... with a shard from the earth as a shield. He brandishes and angles it, allowing the beam to hit... and reflect directly up... catching Kazuma across the shoulder. Freezing him up a little, but not too much.

"He's still got Mayu to deal with..." Ninsei mutters.

"Not exactly," you smirk.

With an opening now made and The Frost in mid-attack, Roka sees his opportunity. "EAT YOUR MOTHER'S PRIDE!"

He launches Act's katana as if it were a fastball, aimed directly at The Frost.

"Mother..." Mayu's voice escapes from the demon... only able to stop the katana at the last minute. It floats in mid-air, as The Frost examines it closely.

Roka grabs the stuck in place Kaz as he lands, before turning his head to you. "I'm not good with words! You say something to him!"

"KAZUMAAAA!" you exclaim.

Kishin Kazuma turns his head in your direction, a twisted snarl on his face.

>You can beat her in this form... but you can't save her. We need you, Kazuma. The real you.
>I want my friend back. I want my brother back. I refuse to lose anyone else out here!
>Think about what dad would do. If he were here right now, you know what he'd say, right?

>>4977544
>Think about what dad would do. If he were here right now, you know what he'd say, right?
"Sorry gotta go, that's my weekend up."

>>4977544
>>I want my friend back. I want my brother back. I refuse to lose anyone else out here!

>>4977544
>>>I want my friend back. I want my brother back. I refuse to lose anyone else out here!

>>4977544
>>I want my friend back. I want my brother back. I refuse to lose anyone else out here!

Calling for
>I want my friend back. I want my brother back. I refuse to lose anyone else out here!

Writing now.

File: Kazuma09.jpg (62 KB, 585x697)

62 KB JPG

>I want my friend back. I want my brother back. I refuse to lose anyone else out here!

You call out to Kazuma, yelling at the top of your lungs to reach out to him. You yell so loud that your voice can reach deep down, past the skin, and make it to Kazuma.

Kishin Kazuma lets out a roar... as The Frost unleashes several more and more shards aimed at him, while he's trapped.

"Look out, dammit!" Roka jumps in the path... taking the shards on his behalf. Blood shoots from Roka's back as he lets out a grunt.

"ROKAAAA!" you scream as he slumps forward, his head tilting.

"Why did I...?" he asks himself. "I... don't even like this chump..."

Roka coughs, trying to remain on his feet. "Who am I kidding... I know why. It's because it was the right thing to do. So... no matter my chances... I'll always do it... so..."

Roka leans back, losing his footing. As he falls back, he slowly utters; "Never tell me the odds."

Roka doesn't hit the floor. A hand catches him instead.

"You... quoting Star Wars at a time like this?"

Your eyes widen as Kaz speaks... the real Kaz. His eyes are normal, soft, caring... as he grabs Roka and sets him aside.

"You've done enough..." Kazuma states as he gently helps Roka down, pulling the shards from his back. "You'll be fine. You're tough."

"KAZ!" you exclaim, as he looks to you and gives a nod.

He then turns his attention back to The Frost. "I... I lost my head there. I've... got to be better than that."

You notice a tear streaming down from his face as he stares at The Frost. "Not for my own sake..." he explains. "You... you're holding onto someone I care about. I need her back. More than anything else in this world... I need her back."

The Frost tilts her head. "You... cause emotions in Mayu Nakatoni."

"I... do?"

"But she does not love you," The Frost states. "You are a distraction. A distraction I will erase."

"Erase me all you want," Kazuma replies, gripping his sword. "I'll erase you ten times over, to get Mayu back."

With that, Kazuma turns to the rest of you. "This could get ugly. You guys hang back... I'll take it from here. This is my fight."

File: Trivia_Kazuma.png (473 KB, 1100x622)

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

File: Amaya07.jpg (296 KB, 757x800)

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>Meanwhile

“I need back-up here!”

“Kuin, stay back!” Amaya exclaims as she and Sae fight off the horde of demons attacking.

Kuin shakes her head. “No way! Your benevolent dictator refuses to stand back! I’m just as much a fighter as-WHOA!”

Kuin loses her footing as a rabid demon pounce, shoving her aside and knocking the weapon from her hand.

“KUIN!” Sae exclaims, spinning around and point her weapon in the direction of the small one for back-up. “Dammit, I can’t just spray fire with Kuin in the way…”

Luckily, the demon approaching Kuin is taken out with a sharp jet of red flames. As Amaya finishes off the last of the horde with a mighty skewering, the trio look to see a group lead by their teacher approaching.

“Takeshi-sensei!” Amaya beams, rushing to her teacher and providing him with a hug. “It’s so good to see you! The rest of you… look hurt. I’ll try to patch you up…”

As Amaya gets to work on healing up Anri and Taiyo, Sae helps Kuin to her feet.

“You were worried about me…” Kuin smiles. “You’d make a loyal servant.”

“Shut up,” Sae blushes. “No I wasn’t.”

Sae then turns to her teacher. “I thought there would be more…”

“There was…” Takeshi admits, scratching his head. “But it’s like herding cats. Seems everyone has business to settle before we can go home… none of you have any kind of hang-ups or duties or missions of revenge, do you?”

“No, I…” Sae mutters, her tough exterior melting away in that moment. Her lip quivers, as the reality of the situation hits her like a wave. “Sensei… I wanna go home…”

Takeshi gives her a sympathetic look. “It’s okay… you kids are going to be okay. We’ll get you home. We also have Act searching, Keiji searching, we’ll gather everyone and reconvene at-“

“Makoto…” Amaya mutters, wincing.

“I haven’t found him yet,” Takeshi notes. “Maybe he’s with one of the-“

“No…” Amaya stands. “I… just got the feeling. He… he’s in trouble. I… I have to go…”

Amaya turns and begins to run.

“No!” Takeshi exclaims, flustered. “Gah… why do they keep running?! We need to get you home!”

“WAIT!” Sae rushes forward and grabs her by the arm.

“You can’t stop me,” Amaya states in a direct, firm tone.

Sae shakes her head. “I know… just…”

Sae grips her wrist tighter. “I know you circus twin freaks are up to something, but… don’t let this be the last time I see you, okay?”

Amaya gives a reassuring smile in turn. “I promise, it won’t be.”

File: Mayu04.jpg (352 KB, 850x1290)

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>Mayu

“Kazuma…”

Mayu mutters to herself in the garden. She touches her mother’s flowers, but they’re frozen solid. Not wilted, but frozen. “Kazuma is here… for me…”

“Kazuma Asai…” The Frost coldly repeats. “You and he were never meant to meet. You understand that, do you not?”

“What do you mean?”

The Frost lolls her head back. “In a different time, a different place, a different you… yourself and Kazuma Asai would be destined partners. The two children of two families of the greatest warriors in human history. The offspring of Kankuro Asai and Kano Nakatoni… of course your respective fathers would have loved for the pair of you to be together, safe and sound in a world they kept at peace.”

“Stop…”

“But that peaceful world never came to be, did it?” The Frost responds. “Those carefree days of childhood, a romance that would bloom from before your adolescence… they did not exist.”

“He is my partner…” Mayu cannot bring herself to shed a tear. “He… he is all I ever wanted?”

“Do you love this boy?”

The Frost’s question is direct, and cutting. “I…”

“You cannot answer,” The Frost responds. “You know it not to be true. You do not love Kazuma Asai. Your pursuit of him over this time… it has been an attempt to capture a semblance of a world you never lived. A world he never lived. He cannot give you that life, and you cannot give him what he desires.”

“No…”

“You are children, attempting to actualize a fantasy,” The Frost replies. “But you are pitiful excuse for a child. No joy, no wonder, no imagination… nothing. You’re a cold, empty shell. It is time for you to grow beyond this superficial fantasy. This is not your destined lover… this is your destined enemy. The bloodline that attempted to wipe your own out. It is time to stop playing pretend…”

The Frost presents a violin. Before her eyes, the instrument morphs and twists, taking the form of a sword… Mayu’s true instrument.

“… and it is time to fulfill your purpose,” The Frost replies. “And kill him.”

>Kaz

“Kaz, be careful!” Kiriko warns you. “She’s more powerful than anything we’ve fought before. Not even Act could stop her!”

“I can see that…” you mutter.

Mayu… beyond that ice, beyond that hard shell of armour… she’s still down there. And you have to get her back, no matter what it takes. Even if it takes your life.

But there’s no doubt about it… even when you lost your mind and reached… that form… it still wasn’t enough. Now you’re just one boy… how the hell are you going to get to Mayu?

>I’ll just keep pushing. I’ll use all my strength to break through her barriers!
>She can’t be secured from all sides. I just have to maneuver, find an opening.

>>4979452
>>She can’t be secured from all sides. I just have to maneuver, find an opening

>>4979452
>She can’t be secured from all sides. I just have to maneuver, find an opening.
Dip, duck, dive and dodge

>>4979452
>I’ll just keep pushing. I’ll use all my strength to break through her barriers!
Go for the big smash

>>4979452
>She can’t be secured from all sides. I just have to maneuver, find an opening.
Kishin fought strong, but Kaz will fight smarter.

Calling for
>She can’t be secured from all sides. I just have to maneuver, find an opening.

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 52 (1d100)

>>4979477

Rolled 38 (1d100)

>>4979477

Rolled 97 (1d100)

>>4979477
Now these are Kaz rolls

>>4979489
Or maybe not

>>4979489
>>4979491
This thread has been blessed by the RNGods

File: Kazuma11.jpg (115 KB, 850x667)

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>97

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-LQqnyNYiQ

As tempting as it is... you don't have time to lose your cool, fly off half-cocked and just try to smash through to get to Mayu. You have to think about this... she'd do the same.

As The Frost unleashes a wave of shard towards you, you make your dash around the perimeter. She tries to track you, but you continue to run around on the outskirts of the field of ice. You're quick, but her defences seem to be impenetrable. Unless...

Everything you've seen of her... she's been projecting forward. Lashing out directly in front of her. She's built up this long strand of defences... but all immediately outward. If you can get in from behind...

But she's following you... you need a way to get behind...

"Kazuma Asai..." The Frost states. "Why do you fight for this girl?"

"Mayu... I know you're in there!" you reply. "I'm coming for you."

"You do not love her," The Frost replies. "You are natural enemies."

"Stop that!" you fire back. "Whatever happened between our fathers-"

"Has always dictated your relationship," The Frost interrupts. "Were it not for your guilt over your father's actions, would you truly be in this position? You pretend to eschew from the tensions between your bloodlines, but in truth those tensions have motivated every one of your decisions you have had with this creature."

"DON'T CALL HER A CREATURE!" you exclaim, as you deflect more shards.

"Why not?" The Frost replies. "You do not see her as a human, do you? There is no humanity here, nor have you ever seen one. Your concern with this girl has always been nothing more than a vessel for your guilt. A means through which to redeem the sins of your family name."

You shake your head. "You demon scum, it's never been about that! Stop poisoning her head!"

"Do I tell lies?" The Frost responds... as she raises Mayu's shirt, just enough to reveal it. "It all returns to this... does it not?"

Mayu's scar... you lose focus, staring at it, as you always find yourself doing.

File: Dark_Mayu06.jpg (174 KB, 850x1103)

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"How do you intend to defeat me?" The Frost asks. "Do you intend to skewer this body once again? Have you not caused enough pain?"

"Why are you doing this...?"

"My only wish is that this vessel live out it's one true purpose," The Frost replies. "And that is not only my wish... but her own as well."

"Stop-"

"I am not in full control," The Frost replies. "She is. She wishes you dead, Kazuma Asai, I am merely the means to assist her. This is her wish, to me."

"Shut up!"

"No... perish."

The Frost unleashes a massive wave of ice, rising up like a wall before her and shooting towards you, crashing down like an avalanche... but you move too quick. You use it to your advantage, leaping up and running across the wave, before jumping once more and landing square behind her. You lunge forward... keeping the katana at your side as you instead reach out and touch her shoulder.

As soon as you make contact, a sizzling steam rises up from the shoulder, as the ice begins to melt away. The Frost lets out a shriek, before pushing you back, an arm of ice reaching out and taking your sword arm. "You will not lay another hand on this vessel," The Frost speaks. "I will take your hand... the hand that has caused such pain, such emotion."

"No way!" you exclaim, perhaps foolishly using your other hand to punch the block encasing you. It hurts like a bitch, but you're able to smash the ice and free yourself... though your sword is again caught in mid air.

The Frost reaches out her hand and clasps it... as the ice crushes your katana... breaking it into three pieces. The small keychain on the hilt, a gift from the class falls at your feet.

"I will erase every aspect that interferes with the cold, vengeful spirit of this vessel."

"Like hell you will!" you protest. "You're not erasing a damn thing about Mayu! I won't allow it!"

>I know I can make a difference with my bare hands. I don't need a sword for this fight.
>I need to defend myself... Act's sword is lying nearby, I should grab it.

>>4979515
>I need to defend myself... Act's sword is lying nearby, I should grab it.
It's right there next to that strange Act shaped ice statue

>>4979515
>I need to defend myself... Act's sword is lying nearby, I should grab it.
Kaz is going to finish what Kankuro started

>>4979515
>I need to defend myself... Act's sword is lying nearby, I should grab it.
both options sound promising but with this Act symbolically it’s also going to help Mayu

>>4979515
>I know I can make a difference with my bare hands. I don't need a sword for this fight

Calling for
>I need to defend myself... Act's sword is lying nearby, I should grab it.

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 63 (1d100)

>>4979544

Rolled 93 (1d100)

>>4979544
Is this when we return to regular rolls?

Rolled 64 (1d100)

>>4979544
Let’s go
>>4979548
Nope

Rolled 91 (1d100)

>>4979544

Will be continuing with the next update once I return home later! Thanks for playing!

>>4979564
Now I know this thread is blessed, even Cleric rolled well

God I hope Mayu eats it. Although this Frost character is alright.

File: Dark_Mayu03.jpg (262 KB, 1000x1414)

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>93

You can reach Mayu with your hands... but all of The Frost's attacks... you're going to need a way to defend yourself.

And that's when you see it. She left it at her side... it's within the field of ice, but... Act's sword is right there.

You leap in, dodging the barriers of ice to reach into the field of ice that surrounds Mayu. You land on your feet off a tumble, grabbing the katana and holding it in your hands. It's a bit heavier than your own blade, but you adjust to the weight well enough.

"What do you intend to do with that pathetic thing?" The Frost asks. "You hold onto the tool of a woman who could not accomplish her primary goal. She could not seek her revenge, she could not protect her daughter. Do you intend to do different?"

"This sword is Act's second arm," you state. "Your mother is going to get you back, Mayu. With my help."

"Mayu Nakatoni does not ask for your help," The Frost states. "She would prefer if your perished, with the rest of your accursed bloodline."

"Shut up!" you protest. "That's not true! That's all a lie!"

The Frost tilts her head. "Do you wish to ask her yourself?"

"Mayu...?"

In that moment, the bodies head hangs low, as the sorrowful voice of Mayu rings out. "Kazuma... it is the truth."

"Mayu, no..."

No eye contact, as the body The Frost possesses looks to the ground. "I was not born to be a part of your world. I was born to bring an end to it. I am nothing more than a tool... a weapon. A vehicle of vengeance, forged in a cold flash of ice. So please... I beg you... for this moment, walk away. Leave me here... before I have no choice but to hurt you. To... kill you."

"Damn you..." you mutter. "Your poisoning her head!"

The Frost snaps back to attention. "Not taking your chance to flee, then?"

"I'd rather die!"

"Then so be it."

The Frost unleashes a wave of ice, rising up like the tide of the ocean... only with a much heavier crash. You raise Act's sword, and slice through and opening to escape through... but another wave comes crashing. Her power is immense....

You hold it back with Act's blade, but it's just not enough.... one weapon isn't enough...

And then you realise... Mayu has dropped her own sword.

In that moment, as she pleaded for you to leave, her own katana was tossed aside, closer to your feet.

That's how you know... she wants you to fight.

You roll through, grabbing the second blade, and continuing to slash through the ice, edging ever closer towards Mayu. But the pressure increases, more and more... and yet you press on...

"Why?" The Frost asks. "Did you not hear? Do you not understand? Why do you continue to pursue this shell? Not even human, a machine designed to kill. You cannot love a machine, and a weapon cannot love. You will be eaten up by the cold wastes of her heart. And yet you persist. Why?"

>Because this isn't the end for us! There's... so much more I want to do!
>To hell with what you were made for, Mayu! What do YOU want?

>>4981692
>To hell with what you were made for, Mayu! What do YOU want?

>>4981692
>To hell with what you were made for, Mayu! What do YOU want?

>>4981692
>To hell with what you were made for, Mayu! What do YOU want?

>Kaz is a Star Wars nerd
>Give him 2 swords to fight the big bad
If he quotes Episode 9 I'm voting for cutting his head off

>>4981692
>>To hell with what you were made for, Mayu! What do YOU want?

>>4981692
>Because this isn't the end for us! There's... so much more I want to do!

Calling for
>To hell with what you were made for, Mayu! What do YOU want?

Writing now.

>>4981692
>To hell with what you were made for, Mayu! What do YOU want?
Uhh here it comes.

File: Dark_Mayu04.jpg (589 KB, 740x1035)

589 KB JPG

>To hell with what you were made for, Mayu! What do YOU want?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3jf_Z68c4LQ

"What... I... want?" Mayu's voice speaks.

The body's head hangs low again. "I... I just wanted to play music... I wanted to make people smile. I... wanted to do what I loved, what I was proud of... and see the look on my parent's faces when they saw me. But... that was a different time. A different me."

The body sways. "Kazuma... I do not have wants, or desires... or loves. Not in a long time. I... I am nothing more than a cold shell now. A frozen sculpture. Nothing on the inside. Like the people of Pompeii... Mayu Nakatoni was frozen at the point of death. Now all that remains... is The Frost."

"BULLSHIT!" you exclaims, pressing forward.

The Frost raises a hand, and a pillar of ice flies out, taking you by the right arm. Act's sword flies from your hand, as jet's of blood shoot out, your arms being sliced and crushed by the pressure... but you press on. It's trapped, but you push it through the small crevasse in the ice, inching closer to Mayu.

"Mayu..." you mutter. "I know how you feel..."

"Kazuma..."

A tear streams from your eye. Not from the pain, you ignore the pain in your arm as you press on. "Mayu... I was so lost... for so long. I lived in the shadow that could no longer be cast, lagging behind a man who could never appear. I felt like... I only had one purpose in life. No time for anything else... I was willing to throw everything I ever felt, anything I ever dreamed, anything I ever wanted away... all to chase that. But then... then I met you. And... well, it was shaky at first. I didn't quite get it... our distance. Our animosity... to be perfectly honest, I truly thought you were a cold person. But you gave me something... you gave me perspective."

"Cease."

The Frost launches another blast, debilitating your left arm... but to hell with that. She can't stop you.

"KAAAAZ!" Kiriko screams in fear.

"DAMMIT!" Gado mutters. "She's killing him..."

"You can try all you want..." you warn The Frost. "You can take my arms, my legs, my torso, even my head... I will continue to approach. Because Mayu... you showed me that I was truly not alone. And... that there was more to life than what was picked out for us."

"STOP," The Frost commands. "I DEMAND YOU STOP. REACH ABSOLUTE ZERO, AND CEASE."

"I'm more than my father's son," you cry. "And you're more than Act's daughter. We aren't pawns in some feud. You're not weapon. You're not even cold. Dammit, Mayu... you do nothing but look out for others. You'll sacrifice your happiness for your mother, you cared for me at every opportunity, you'll protect anyone who's hurt or in need... and when you smile... Mayu, you're the kindest, warmest person I've ever met!"

File: Dark_Mayu12.jpg (76 KB, 613x800)

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You continue to approach, but you're losing blood... and the pressure of the ice only increases. You want to reach out to Mayu, but your arms are stuck. You drag yourself forward, crushing your arms in the process, just to get within reach. "And there's so much still to do..." you mutter. "Think of what you want, Mayu! Because... there's so much I want with you."

The tears turn cold as the run down your cheeks. "I want to go to the aquarium with you, I want to see you with the penguins... I want to go to the beach, a real beach! On a sunny day! I want to tell a joke that will make you laugh! I want to see you try spicy foods and watch your reaction! I want to hold your hand on the way back from classes! I want to watch after you when you have the flu! I want you to do the same for me! I want you to see Star Wars! I want you to develop a favourite song, a favourite movie, I want to read your favourite book! I don't even care if you don't love me back... because it's not about that! I want to see you happy! Every day, I want that smile to grow ever wider, until it's too bright to look at! Because that's the Mayu I know exists deep down inside! I've felt it! I want to see you have the best day of your life day after day instead of struggling to push on! And... I want to hear you play the violin! I want to play with you! I want... I want you to do what makes you happy..."

The Frost is stunned in silence, as you make it within reach. You've lost a lot of blood... and you're fading out... that outburst didn't do much to help your oxygen levels in this environment. With a last gasp... you press your forehead to hers. Your body slumped forward, the ice crushing your arms being all that holds you upright... you make contact with Mayu one last time.

"Please..." you whisper.

>Mayu

"What a pathetic speech..."

The Frost stands before Mayu, as Mayu looks down at the weapon in her hands. Her mother's katana. This was her role... but Kazuma's words....

"Now he is nothing but a corpse," The Frost replies. "Seconds from death. This is it, Mayu. Your fate... is about to be accomplished. You will gain your revenge against the Asai family."

"No..." Mayu cries.

"This is your time!" The Frost commands. "YOU WILL KILL HIM!"

Mayu looks down. In her hands... her true desire. Her true instrument.

"No... I... WON'T!" Mayu screams... as she raises the violin, and smashes it across the head of The Frost.

>Kaz

The Frost lets out a mighty scream, as everything around you grows warmer. The tundra is dissipating, and the ice constraining you begins to melt away. As it melts, you fall forward... being caught by a pair of arms.

Mayu's arms.

A hand gently touches the back of your head. "Kazuma... speak to me..." she mutters. "Please... don't go... I want to see the penguins..."

>Mayu... what happened?
>Heh... I knew you would...
>We... need to get home first...

>>4981736
>>Heh... I knew you would...

>>4981736
>We... need to get home first...
Not out of the woods yet, best Seer's vision showed we're still about to get fucked up

>>4981736
>We... need to get home first...

Then let's go see those fucking penguins.

>>4981736
>Heh... I knew you would...

I swear if ghost dad chooses this moment to appear and blueball Kazuma...

>>4981736
>>Heh... I knew you would...
Fuck that was cute

>>4981736
>We... need to get home first...
And then chew her out for being an idiot and making a deal with a demon

>>4981736
>>Heh... I knew you would...

Calling for
>Heh... I knew you would...

Writing now.

File: Tsuki19.jpg (222 KB, 700x500)

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>Heh... I knew you would...

You gasp, as Mayu holds you closer. You begin to weep at the embrace... she's so warm.

"Can you... move your arms?" Mayu asks.

"J-just... barely..." you groan.

"It's okay..." Mayu replies. "Kazuma... I love you."

"I love you too..."

With that, your lips lock, and with what power remains in your body, you hold her close.

And you're never letting her go.


>Meanwhile

“You’re more wily than I remember!”

Tsuki clutches his shoulder after the impact of a bullet ricocheting to hit him. “Where’d you learn a trick like that, Aoki?”

“From… a friend…” Risa mutters.

“I’m more than that, right?” the vision of Katsuyori jokes.

Tsuki smirks. “No matter. I will take a lot more than a few trick shots to stop me, and you know it. Though… something does seem off about you… something truly has changed within you…”

“That’s right!” Mai boasts in a sudden outburst. “Risa’s an archangel now! The first in our class to gain that power!”

Tsuki pauses. “What’s that?”

“Eep, I mean-“

“I was going to make a joke about her hair,” Tsuki explains. “But an archangel, eh? Didn’t take you for the kind to unlock that kind of power.”

“I…”

Tsuki’s smirk turns to an angered scowled. “And now… I feel insulted. You intend to play around with me, and not show me this power?”

Risa pauses. “I… I can’t.”

“So then, is Tamuro a liar?”

“No, but…”

“Then show me.”

“I’m… not able to…”

Tsuki scowls, before lunging forward and grabbing Mai by the wrist. “H-hey!”

“MAI!” Ukon exclaims. “Let go of her, you jerk!”

Tsuki kicks Ukon back, sending the boy flying. He holds up Mai by the arm tightening his grip with one hand, and wielding his sword with the other. “Reveal it to me now, or she dies.”

“No!” Risa protests, as Tsuki brings his blade closer to Mai’s neck.

“NOW!”

Tsuki is interrupted however, by a jet of flames flying up and piercing his shoulder. He lets go of Mai and staggers back, with Ukon running forward and dragging his friend to safety.

From the shadows approaches Takeshi, a group of students behind him.

“Sensei?” Risa gasps.

“Ah, Takeshi-sensei!” Tsuki smirks. “It’s been a while, hasn’t-“

Tsuki is immediately hit with another blast of flames, as Takeshi’s eyes sharpen.

“Nobody is dying,” Takeshi notes. “Stay the hell away from my kids.”

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>Kaz

As you lay back, the rest of the group approaches.

"You... you guys..." Kiriko mutters, before falling to her knees and bawling heavy tears. Her nose is runny as she tries to wipe away her sobs. "I-I almost lost you... I almost lost Kaz, I almost lost Mayu, I almost lost Roka... all three of you dummies just... WAAAAAAAAAH!"

You give a small smile. "It's okay, Kiriko... we're all here."

You turn your attention to Roka. "Thanks."

Roka shakes his head, still tending to his own wounds. "Don't mention it. Seriously."

Mayu's head perks up, as she looks to her side. "Mother!"

Act is free from her ice prison, but your sensei lies motionless on the floor. "Is... Is she..." Mayu mutters.

Tami examines her. "There's breath! She's still alive, but... I don't think she'll be coming to any time soon..."

"I did this to her..." Mayu mutters.

"That wasn't you," Gado assures her.

Mayu shakes her head. "No... it was."

"Is... the demon still there?" Gado asks. "How were you able to push it back?"

"I... I do not know," Mayu admits. "I feel like... something awakened within me. Regardless... the demon is no longer here within me."

"Are you sure it's not just dormant, waiting to act up again?"

Mayu nods. "Yes... I can feel it. It no longer has any presence within me."

"Do you think in that moment you tapped into your angel form?" Kiriko suggests. "Maybe you expelled it?"

"Perhaps..." Mayu nods. "But I do not feel like an angel. I just feel like... Mayu."

Ninsei nods. "It's okay. Now, we can find the others, and take her back with us."

"No..." you mutter. "There's still something left... Chuichi."

"Right... you know about that..." Roka mutters. "Well, what the hell are we supposed to do with that guy?"

>Chuichi was my friend. I... I'll put an end to this.
>I could save Mayu... maybe I can save Chuichi from himself.
>I don't know... but we have to make sure nobody else gets hurt.

>>4981810
>I don't know... but we have to make sure nobody else gets hurt.

>>4981810
>>I don't know... but we have to make sure nobody else gets hurt.

>>4981810
>Chuichi was my friend. I... I'll put an end to this.

>>4981810
>I don't know... but we have to make sure nobody else gets hurt.

Calling for
>I don't know... but we have to make sure nobody else gets hurt.

Writing now.

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>I don't know... but we have to make sure nobody else gets hurt.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YF8vecQWYs

"After how reckless you were, can you really be the one saying that?" Ninsei points out.

"Atasuke and Mio have already gone running off after him," you reply. "Akuro probably the same... all of them are in danger."

"And Kaiya is at his side," Mayu notes, before stepping forward, looking off into the distance.

"Mayu?" you ask.

Mayu looks around, before finding a spot on the ground. "I thought I heard the music playing... did you not?"

Mayu hunkers down and grabs it, before bringing it to you. Your music player.

"This is yours," Mayu responds with a smile.

You can't help but well up. "Mayu..."

"I lost my way..." she mutters. "And I almost caused you to lose yours. But now... my vision is clear. The mist is gone."

She looks to her mother, then back to you. "Kazuma... we will save those we love. And then... we will make music together. Beautiful music. Is that okay with you?"

"Of course," you smile in turn.

Gado pauses. "Do they know what that's a euphemism for, or...?"

"Don't ruin the moment," Kiriko replies.

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>Meanwhile

“Getting tight?” Chuichi asks, his string wrapped tight around Keiji’s arm. The sharp string slicing into his hand

“Agh… damn you…” Keiji mutters. “I thought you were a weakling.”

“I was…” Chuichi replies. “Not anymore. My vision is clear. My goals are in sight. I am about to implement my control.”

“Your control?” Keiji replies. “I don’t give a damn about that. I don’t care what you intend to do with all the others… but you’ve interfered with me and my sister for the last time, you little freak. And for that, I’ll kill you.”

Chuichi grimaces. “Wait, don’t move, you’ll get.”

“I don’t need my hand!” Keiji declares, as he presses forward regardless. In a clean slice, the string constricts, and his bloody right hand flies off, sword still gripped.

“KEIJI!” Kaiya exclaims, shocked and staggering. Chuichi and Keiji fighting. Her brother and her…

Chuichi staggers back. “Are you crazy?! You took your own hand off!”

“IT WAS IN THE WAY!” Keiji exclaims, as he grabs his sword with his remaining hand while it falls through the air and he immediately charges. “You understand being committed to your ideals, don’t you? Your goal is clear, would you do the same?”

“I…”

“And that’s why you’ll die here!” Keiji explains. “Because there’s nothing I won’t do to achieve my-“

Keiji stops dead in his tracks before he can thrust his sword forward… as between him and his target stands his sister.

“Kaiya, what are you doing?!” Keiji “Get out of the way!”

Kaiya remains still, before speaking softly. “They disappoint, they disappear, they die but they don’t.”

“What?”

“No more.”

Keiji pauses, before lowering his blade to his side. “Kaiya… is this what you want?”

“It’s our time…” Kaiya replies. “It’s not our world, our story, our future.”

“Stop it,” Keiji mutters. “I didn’t bring you back… I didn’t go through everything to bring you back time and time again for nothing.”

“It wasn’t.”

In that moment, Kaiya gives a small smile. A true smile. And she speaks with a simple voice, a friendly voice… is this what she sounded like, once upon a time?

“What do you mean?” Keiji asks.

“It wasn’t a waste,” Kaiya beams. “I made so many friends!”

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“Kaiya…”

“But it’s time… isn’t it?”

Keiji drops his sword. “I… oh god…”

He runs his hand through his hair, as tears stream down. “What did I turn you into… what… what did I turn myself into?”

“Keiji-san…” Chuichi turns his head away. “I don’t want to hurt you anymore… I don’t want to hurt any people…”

“You won’t have to…” Keiji replies. “Heh… to think of all people, you’d be the one to open her eyes… and mine in turn.”

Keiji looks to his sister. “This is the end, isn’t it?”

“The end of a chapter,” Kaiya replies. “The end of ours. But the pages turn all the same.”

Keiji gives a small smile. “That’s the sister I knew… then do it. I… can’t keep running in circles, can I? Sometimes… you have to press on.”

“Brother…”

“Do it. End it. You… you know how.”

Chuichi gasps. “Kaiya, no…”

Kaiya raises her hand, and hits Keiji with a single fireball… he falls back, into the tar pit.

“Keiji-san!” Chuichi explains.

“Steel yourself, boy…” Keiji mutters as the tar begins to suck him in and envelop him. “I’ve stood in the way of the future long enough. It’s finally time… to say goodbye. Kaiya… goodbye.”

“Goodbye… Keiji…” Kaiya replies.

In a moment, Keiji is sucked in, no longer able to be seen.

“Is he…?” Chuichi replies.

“Dead.”

Kaiya turns away. “Kaiya… why?” Chuichi asks. “Why did you… and why did he let you…?”

“It was time. He understood.”

“Kaiya…”

Kaiya turns back to Chuichi and gives a smile. “I want you to run. I want you to escape.”

“And you?”

“This is where we part,” Kaiya replies. “One road ends, another continues. You weave a thread that will outlive us all. Follow that thread.”

“But I can’t leave you!”

“I know, I’m leaving you…” Kaiya replies. “I will make sure that everyone will be safe.”

“Kaiya…”

“This will be the last time we meet… Chuichi.”

With that, Kaiya turns away and begins to walk.

“Kaiya…” Chuichi mutters. “I will never forget you. You strange, strange girl…”

“And you strange, strange boy…” Kaiya replies. “I… wish I had more meat, though.”

The two part ways, as Chuichi continues his retreat. Keiji died so that Kaiya could finally have her freedom, and she’s using that… to help him? Dammit… what’s so special about him?!

Chuichi only gets about half a kilometer away before he is stopped once more, this time by a masked face he did not expect to see again. “You…”

“We meet again, Chuichi Murkami,” The Kind Man speaks. “Are you ready… to carry out the will of Albion?”

“… Of course.”

END OF EPISODE 44

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>Ending Theme
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YF8vecQWYs

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

>Twitter
https://twitter.com/bookerman32

>Discord
https://discord.gg/yz7sDra

Thanks for playing! We now reach the final two arcs of Season 3! We'll be completing Class 2's side of things starting with the next thread "Graduation Day" coming soon! Then we'll be returning to Class 1 to close out the Season with "Chuichi's Control!" Follow the Twitter for any updates!

>Player Questions
What will happen when Kaz and Chuichi cross paths once more? And what are some of your favourite Kaz/Mayu moments? What moments do you want to see with them in the future?

>>4981871
Thanks for running Booker.

>pq1
Idoit slap fight, maybe take a tumble down a hill while punching each other ect, ya know, the usual male best friends fighting stuff. One of them is gonna claim they were never actualy friends and they were just using the other, the other is gonna shout about how that isnt true.
And then they kiss

>pq2
Mayu rolling Kaz up in the blanket Sushiroll of safety to protect him from her mother arriving at the school for the first time comes to mind pretty quickly.

>pq3
One day Kaz and Mayu will get to have a proper date. Admittedly one that is heavily chaperoned by several adults, there entire class and several of their senpais.

>>4981871
That was an amazing episode, thanks for running.

>What will happen when Kaz and Chuichi cross paths once more?
More drama, and hopefully Kaz will punch some sense into Chuichi
>And what are some of your favourite Kaz/Mayu moments?
Other than the climax of this episode I think their heart to heart on the fake beach episode was pretty good.
>What moments do you want to see with them in the future?
The aquarium visit of course. With Mayu trying to smuggle a baby penguin