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>The Endless Night, Some Time Ago

Chuichi stands outside the cave. The others have taken this time to sleep, but not him. That thing… that demon, guardian… whatever, that calls itself The Kind Man… sits at the entrance of the safe location. Before him is a shogi board, and he appears to be engaged with a game.

“Huh… can’t say I expected demons to invent shogi independently,” Chuichi jokes. “Who are you playing?”

“My brother,” The Kind Man explains. “We started our game quite some time ago. My last turn came sixty-two years ago… I am still waiting on his response.”

“You have years too, good to know…” Chuichi replies. “So, my elders are fighting whatever weirdo did this?”

The Kind Man nods. “Worry not for them, child. Settan Taguchi is but a pawn of a pawn of a pawn… although…”

“What?”

“It is odd…” he notes. “There is an extra piece on the board. One that should not belong. But is this extra piece a pawn, a general, or a King? Time will tell…”

Chuichi pauses.

… What the heck is this guy saying?! What a weirdo! Chuichi definitely should have just gone back to sleep!

“Why are you waiting out here anyway?” Chuichi asks. “I thought we would be kept safe by some magical aura? Isn’t that what you promised?”

The Kind Man looks back to the cave. “I am overlooking my Master.”

“Your master?”

“The Herald of Albion.”

“I see… it’s Kaz, isn’t it?” he replies. “You said he-“

“No,” The Kind Man interrupts. “Make no mistake, Kazuma Asai holds great importance in this world… but he is not The Herald.”

Chuichi sighs. “I get it… so there’s another guy more important than me in there?! Gah, this is so embarrassing!”

“There is a reason you came out here,” The Kind Man notes. Chuichi pulls his face from his hands, collecting himself.

“… Chuichi. Chuichi Murkami.”

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“Hm?”

“You knew Kaz’s name,” Chuichi explains. “You knew his dads. You even seem to know whatever pervert calls themselves Settan!”

“You have a choice vocabulary,” The Kind Man replies. “If we are introducing ourselves proper, then you may call me Urizen.”

Chuichi glares at him. “How about I call you by your actual name?”

“Yes. Urizen.”

Chuichi shakes his head. “You’ll have everyone believe you’re a demon, but I know your face. Does the name Wei Kobashi mean anything to you?”

“Once, it did.”

“I knew it,” Chuichi continues. “Wei Kobashi fostered me after my parents… well, any time I was in his office, I would see a photo of you. I read on you as well anytime I could… you look the same give or take six decades and a crappy mask… you’re Mitsuharu Inoki, aren’t you? You were in the original class of this school. Word in Dakugeto is that you started that cult of freaks in the forest and then vanished.”

Urizen shakes his head. “You have me mistaken. That was indeed a name this vessel went by once upon a time… but that was another life entirely. I do not lie to you when I say my name is Urizen. However… you are correct in detecting my deception. I am no demon. Rather… I am an angel.”

Chuichi pauses. “A… what now? Hey now, that can’t be right. An angel?”

“What do you find so perplexing?”

“Well it’s just… an angel is, you know…”

“What?”

Chuichi scratches his head. “Well, they’re all super cute blonde girls who fall from heaven and make some poor salaryman’s life a little better one spongebath at a time, right?”

Urizen pauses. “What have you read?”

“Fine literature.”

Urizen lets out a small laugh. “You are indeed a perplexing one, Chuichi Murkami. I am certain there is reason for your introduction?”

“You said I wasn’t important.”

“You are not.”

“Hey!” Chuichi snaps. “You can’t just blurt it out like that! That stuff kinda stings, you know? Didn’t you call yourself the Kind Man?”

Urizen shrugs. “You have no place in this grand game, Chuichi Murkami. Consider yourself at home with billions of humans, billions of demons, and over a quadrillion ants. I see it all before me. You should consider yourself blessed not to be involved in the fate of our worlds.”

“… Ant?”

Chuichi takes a deep breath… before running up to Urizen. He raises his leg, and with a mighty push, he kicks the shogi board, pieces flying down the cliff side.

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“I was playing that,” Urizen calmly notes.

“Don’t ever call me an ant!” Chuichi exclaims. “I was an ant that day… the day I first saw them! The only reason I lived… I was like an ant to them! They never even took my notice! They ripped my world from me, but… I was too insignificant to even kill! I promised… I’d never be that insignificant again!”

Chuichi stands over Urizen, his fists clenched. “So let me introduce myself one more time. I am Chuichi Murkami… the man who will destroy every last demon.”

Urizen rises from the ground, staring at Chuichi with a Cheshire grin. “Albion welcomes your attempt.”

Urizen turns to walk away, before Chuichi stops him again.

“Wait… to start it all… cash in your favour.”

“Hm?”

“You let us stay here in return for a favour,” Chuichi replies. “I won’t let you hang that over our heads. I won’t let any of them be hounded by you… so cash it in. On me. Only me.”

Urizen chuckles. “I was so worried about the Stranger piece… I did not consider one would flip the board entirely. If you wish, I will cash in my favour. Do you truly wish to eradicate every demon?”

“I’ve done it before,” Chuichi explains. “To my own classmate, even.”

“Then you will carry out the will of Albion,” Urizen explains.

Chuichi pauses. “What does that me-“

Before he can answer, Urizen jabs him in the chest with two fingers. Urizen’s hand glows with a radiant aura… as Chuichi’s flesh begins to burn.

No… he can’t scream. That’s the test… he can’t wake the others. He must deal with the…

The pain intensifies. Like being plunged into the depth of a volcano… Chuichi falls to his knees, but the searing continues. Still, he does not scream. He does not cry out.

Chuichi’s vision flattens. Urizen and his surroundings fade away, replaced with the whole of it. All of the Darkworld lies before his vision. Countless demons, countless horrors… but there is an egg. An egg that towers above, hidden just behind the clouds of red. A pure white egg… with cracks in its shell. It’s almost ready… if the cracks can break apart, break free from its prison, then the light inside will douse all the evil that lies below.

Once Chuichi’s vision returns, he realises he has been writhing on the earth for some time. He looks down at his chest. Seared into his flesh… a symbol, which appears to be a pair of wings sprouting from an orb of some kind.

“This is…”

“You have been branded by the mark of Albion,” Urizen explains. “Worry not, only you can see the mark on your flesh… it is only yours to see. When the time comes…”

Chuichi returned to the cave, and fell asleep for the last time.

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>Kaz

“We don’t have a lot of hands here…” Gado remarks, hoisting Act over his shoulder. “Damn, she’s heavy… being down by far the strongest person we’ve got is a bad sign…”

“All we have to do is get to Takeshi-sensei,” Ninsei reminds the group. “Once we’re reunited, we can be ported out of this hell.”

“… And what if we can’t all be united?” Gado notes in a sombre tone.

Mayu looks to you. She’s too beat up to go any further at this stage. “I took away so much of my own allies strength… I cannot forgive myself if one of my classmates is injured or worse as a result of my distraction.”

“We’re well past the point of blaming each-other for this,” Kiriko shoots her a reassuring thumbs up.

You help Mayu to her feet. The fight took its toll on you… after you we already attacked by Tsuki… after falling into that trap… you’ve taken a hell of a beating. The fact that you’re even still standing is nothing short of a miracle.

Why? What is it that keeps you standing?

“One problem,” Kiriko notes. “How on earth are we supposed to find-“

Kiriko’s sentence is interrupted.

By a massive, erupting pire of flames firing up from behind the cliff face, through the caverns, lighting up the red sky.

“… Well,” Kiriko mutters. “There’s Takeshi-sensei.”

“That didn’t seem like a beacon…” Roka notes. “Looks like he’s in a fight.”

“All the more reason to get there sooner,” Tami nods. “We might not have much left in our tanks… but if our friends are in danger.”

“Let’s get moving, then!” Kiriko exclaims, leading the charge to move forward.

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You hand over Mayu to Roka, the weakened Nakatoni clan being carried by the larger members of the group. As you take a step forward, he places out a hand. “Who are you kidding?”

“What?”

“You’re not coming this way,” Roka notes.

“What do you me-“

“He’s right,” Mayu notes, her voice strained and weakened. “Mio… Akuro… Atasuke…”

“… Those three are going to do something very stupid,” Roka replies. “And you’ve gotta do something stupid to stop them.”

“But I-“

“This isn’t a request,” Roka replies. “This is our blessing… we know it’s what you want to do.”

You pause. Mayu and Roka are right, but you don’t know if you can abandon their side. They’re so close to Takeshi-sensei, but… what if you can’t regroup with them later. Can you leave your sister and your girlfriend’s side?

“Is he still dragging his feet?” Kiriko calls out from the front of the pack. The rest look to you.

“You guys too…” you mutter.

“Kaz… only one person can deal with Chuichi and you know it…” Kiriko notes. “Right now… for better or worse, he needs his best friend.”

“Knock some sense into that clown,” Roka replies. “Look… you showed me up in that last fight, I’ve got to prove I’m not a step behind. I’ll keep these guys safe… you go save the rest before something real bad happens.”

>Okay… thanks, Roka.
>If you don’t, I’ll make you pay, Abe.
>What am I supposed to do about Chuichi? I’m just… me.

>>5328047
>>What am I supposed to do about Chuichi? I’m just… me.

>>5328047
>>Okay… thanks, Roka.
Need to punch the edge out of the greenboy at least two levels down.

>>5328047
>What am I supposed to do about Chuichi? I’m just… me.
It's Chuichi's time to shine as the true protagonist

>>5328047
>What am I supposed to do about Chuichi? I’m just… me.

Time for Kaz to Kaz

Calling for
>What am I supposed to do about Chuichi? I’m just… me.

Writing now.

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>What am I supposed to do about Chuichi? I’m just… me.

“Are you really that dumb?” Roka replies. “You and that green clown are made for each-other… do you think Act’s name means anything to him?”

“No…”

“Does Wei’s?” Roka asks. “Does Agent White’s? Does Takeshi’s? He’s always treated their presence like a joke. But you… you’re the only guy he’s ever really listened to, right?”

You pause.

It’s true. Chuichi has never really paid attention to any kind of authority, oftentime he’d barely react to the seriousness of a situation… only you. But… isn’t that just an act? It was all a fake. All that time… all those moments together…

Your best friend was never real.

“He’s not going to-“

“Maybe,” Kiriko replies. “But you know you have to try.”

You let out a deep breath. You know… ultimately, you have to face this. Even if… even if you don’t know if you could bear to see that face again, knowing what you know now.

But Mio is in danger. Akuro is in danger. Atasuke is in danger.

… Kaiya is in danger. Chuichi is in danger.

Kaiya’s last words ring in your head. “It breaks”… does she truly mean the class will be forever shattered by this? This last year, the bonds you’ve forged… with Mayu, with Chuichi, with Mio, with Risa, with Gado, with Makoto… even with Roka… you can’t let those days disappear, can you?

Before you know it, you start moving.

You’re coming to repair your class.

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>POV: Risa

“A little over the top, don’t you think, Sensei?”

Tsuki emerges unscathed, a fortunate dodge saving the demon at the last minute. The flames still circle Takeshi’s blade as he stands at the ready, his eyes focused.

“You’re not allowed to call me sensei!” Takeshi exclaims. “Or T-Dawg! Or Big T! Or T-Rex! You’re not one of my students!”

Big T? Even when he’s showcasing his power, it’s pretty hard to find awe in Takeshi-sensei, is there?

“Well, if we’re bringing out the big guns early…” Tsuki smirks, as his arms glow with dark energy. His eyes widen as a hail of machine gun fire causes him to dodge again.

As she steps forward, her guns still smoking, Sae turns her head to you with a glare. “Just what do you think you’re doing, Risa?”

“Sae…” you mutter.

“You had a clear line of sight!” Sae snaps. “Only three of us are fit to fight here! We can’t just leave it up to this goofball!”

“That stings!” Takeshi smiles. “But forgiven!”

Tsuki flies back up, overlooking the group. “I see unlike our fragile princess over here, you haven’t lost your nerve, Sae! Have you gotten fatter?”

“I’m killing him,” Sae marches. “Out of my way, senpai.”

“I’m supposed to be defending you!” Takeshi exclaims.

Tsuki shakes his head. “The hypocrisy… you’re so eager to protect your children, yet had no regard for mine! So carelessly wiped out…”

“Your… yes, Selene…” the weakened Taiyo mutters. “This class were able to destroy her.”

“My own flesh and blood!” Tsuki mocks tears. “How could you…!”

He pauses for a moment, then shrugs. “Oh well, you win some and lose some.”

Takeshi pauses. “You don’t sound so attached…”

“Obviously!” Tsuki smirks. “Because…”

“Oh no…” Taiyo mutters.

“… I can just create another.”

Your eyes widen.

… What?

Tsuki raises his arm. Behind him, a full moon rises up into the sky, shooting through the red clouds. Cracks begin to appear on the construct, before it breaks open, black streaks shooting out as a figure lowers itself down.

A figure in a black dress, holding a pitchfork.

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“TA-DAAAAAAAAA!” Selene outstretches her arms in celebration, floating at the side of her father. “Act twoooooooo! I’m back!”

“No… no!” you exclaim. This damn creature… it took Kaiya at her full power to destroy it at New Year’s… and she was just recreated, like that?

“He’s getting stronger…” Taiyo warns. “He couldn’t do that before… his strength is increasing by the second…”

“The Moon towers over The Sun for once!” Tsuki gloats. “I don’t even need us to combine anymore! I don’t need you, brother. Selene? Stab your uncle.”

“Sure thing, papa!” Selene giggles, brandishing her trident. She flings herself towards Taiyo, only to eat a flying boot to the face from Sae.

She stumbles, before blocking Sae’s machine gun fire by spinning her weapon, deflecting the bullets.

“No…” you stumble, losing your footing.

“Risa, don’t lose faith!” Mai calls out to you.

“… Both of them, huh? Together, they’re much tougher than your dad was, right?”

That damn voice in your head. “Go away, Kats…”

The ghost of an old memory stands in your way. “Stop…” you cry. “We… we can’t beat them both…”

Before you know it, Tsuki appears before you, slashing his sword towards you head. It clashes with more steel, Takeshi stepping in front. Your teacher cuts through all of the noise with a shout.

“You won’t have to!” he yells. “I’ll take Tsuki! You guys can take care of the henchman!”

“Henchman?!” Selene objects. “I’m the main event!”

As Takeshi pushes Tsuki far back from the group, the two clashing blades, Sae stands at your side. “Get it together, Risa! It’s just the two of us!”

Right… you need to focus…

>All out fire on that demon, now!
>We can’t outpower her, we need to flank her!

>>5328100
>We can’t outpower her, we need to flank her!
At least now Kaz is not here to fail his social roll.

>>5328100
>>We can’t outpower her, we need to flank her!
Ooooh fuuuuck she's back baby!

>>5328100
>We can’t outpower her, we need to flank her!
Why are we fighting Tsuki when he can 3D print waifus on demand?

>>5328100

>All out fire on that demon, now!

Calling for
>We can’t outpower her, we need to flank her!

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 44 (1d100)

>>5328136

Rolled 82 (1d100)

>>5328136
Here we go

Rolled 80 (1d100)

>>5328136

/roll 1d100

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>82

Sae nods, and the two of you get to work. Sae starts with the supressing fire. Selene deflects the bullets with a spin of her trident, but it's enough to keep her in place. You sprint, first grabbing Mai and tossing her to the back-line alongside Ukon and Kuin, before readying your bullets.

You fire, as the shells drop to the ground, your ammunition soaring through the air, directed at the demon's back while she's occupied... but those damn tendrils of hers fly up from her back.

They encircle the projectiles and spin around like a cement mixer, as the bullets slow and eventually simply stop in the air.

"Impressed?" Selene boasts as she turns her head back, still deflecting Sae's fire as she speaks to you. "Like the moon controls the tides, I can control the gravity of anything caught between my back thingies!"

"Tendrils!" Ukon shouts out.

"No way!" Selene protests. "That makes me sound like a weird creepo monster!"

"You are!" Ukon points you.

You can see the vein of anger sprouting on Selene's forehead. Bad idea to anger the powerful moon demigod, Ukon...

"What did you just say?!" Selene snaps.

Well, that provides a better distraction that just the flanking.

"Now!" you command, as Selene turns her head back in confusion, realising that Sae's machine gun fire has stopped.

In place, Sae holds her grenade launcher, and fires.

Selene lets out a yelp before being engulfed in a blast, smoking spreading out on the clifftop.

"Well, she's a fool..." the recovering Anri notes. "That seems to be our best advantage."

"Sensei and Moonface have gone a long way off..." Sae notes. "I hope he can handle the big guns."

"Don't lose focus!" Taiyo yells out, as the smoke dissipates.

Selene breathes heavily, steam rising from her, but the demon still standing. Of course it would take more than that.

"You made me look like an idiot!" Selene yells at you. "In front of a cute boy!"

Everyone pauses.

You slowly point to Ukon in confusion. "Him?"

"No, him!" Selene points at the green-haired detective.

Anri lets out a sigh that may rank among the three greatest you've heard from the long suffering genius. "Can we just get this over with?"

"Yeah, how's about that mecha form?" Sae demands. "Would be pretty useful right now!"

"You think I wouldn't be doing that if I could?" you point out. "I can't!"

The ghostly Katsuyori shakes his head. "Come on, Princess. Does this fight not matter to you? You're really going to let them die?"

"Shut up!" you exclaim out loud.

"You shut up!" Sae exclaims, with no regard for you hallucination. "Let's finish this punk!"

Right... yes. You can't let up... this fight is just as dangerous as your father was...

>Keep up the explosive rounds! We'll blast her back into the skies!
>More will be coming after they saw Takeshi's flame pillar! If we can just stall her until back-up arrives, we'll have a proper shot!

>>5328172
>Keep up the explosive rounds! We'll blast her back into the skies!
More dakka

>>5328172
>Keep up the explosive rounds! We'll blast her back into the skies!
I like schyzo Risa, she’s fun.

>>5328172
>>Keep up the explosive rounds! We'll blast her back into the skies!

>>5328172
>>Keep up the explosive rounds! We'll blast her back into the skies!

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>>5328172
>Keep up the explosive rounds! We'll blast her back into the skies!

God damn Moon people!

>>5328172
>More will be coming after they saw Takeshi's flame pillar! If we can just stall her until back-up arrives, we'll have a proper shot!
Need the gang to stomp Tsuki

Calling for
>Keep up the explosive rounds! We'll blast her back into the skies!

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 14 (1d100)

>>5328207

Rolled 70 (1d100)

>>5328207
Rollin

Rolled 19 (1d100)

>>5328207

Rolled 29 (1d100)

>>5328207

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>70

"Damn straight!" Sae exclaims. "I'm going to keep firing until this moonbat is nothing but cinders!"

You load up your explosive rounds and cock your double shotguns.

Selene wipes the ash off her shoulders and cracks her neck. "Did you two get stronger since last time?"

"It's been a long three months, trust me."

"Well then, now it's interesting!" Selene exclaims.

You let lose with with a flurry of explosive rounds, as Sae does the same. Selene floats up and deftly dodges each blast. She's so fast, she moves in the air like a pixie, zipping back and forth. It's hard to predict her patterns, if she even has any.

"Risa, look out!" Kuin exclaims. "She's not just dodging!"

You look back, and the strategist is right. As she flies up, and gains area over the sky above you, Selene is increasing her range.

Her tendrils come down, planting themselves in four separate points in the rock beneath your feet. A perfect square of area, which you and Sae are standing in.

"Aaaaaaand UP!" Selene exclaims.

Not through your own volition, you leave your feet. Slowly at first, you begin levitating, losing your footing as all gravity around you and Sae are altered. "Damn you!" Sae readies her grenade launcher, but you grab it from her hands. "No! Anything we fire will just hang in the air! It'll blow up in our face!"

"So? We're already sitting ducks!"

Dammit, it's true... Selene is lowering herself now, her trident at the ready, to skewer you as you're floating helplessly. There's only one way... with enough strength, maybe you could...

Katsuyori's spirit floats beside you, lying sideways in a lackadaisical pose. "You know your surroundings, right? Take a page from my book."

Right... just firing without consideration of the surroundings... you know better.

You throw your arm back... it's like moving in molasses, but with the right push, you can...

You throw your shotgun, and it moves very slowly towards the edge of the anti-gravity field... before breaking through that barrier, flying down towards the others, landing at Anri's feet.

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"Ohohoho!" Selene gloats, floating directly before you. Sae kicks helplessly as she floats there, while Selene brandishes her pronged weapon. "What does it matter? Any blast in here will just slow once it enters my range!"

"Anri, don't shoot here."

Your command resonates with the detective instantly. "Right..."

"Anri?" Mai mutters. "Then where...?"

Anri fires the explosive rounds at the base of the cliff. They explode, breaking apart the rock beneath. With it, the tendril dislodges... and the entire cliff edge gives way.

You plummet with Sae, but now you're free from Selene's gravity range. You fire with your remaining shotgun, catching Selene. In return, she tosses a massive remnant of the cliff onto you, speeding your plummet into the ground below.

"RISA!" Sae exclaims. She grabs you, and fires into the sky, breaking apart any large sections of rock that would crush you beneath them.

She isn't however, able to deflect the charging Selene, who stabs her with a trident thrust between the ribs.

"SAAAAE!" you cry out, as Selene tosses Sae to the side.

"Dammit..." Sae curses, clutching her bleeding ribs.

"Nice try, but all you've done is separate you and your friends," Selene gloats... before you shoot her in the face with an explosive blast which sends her flying. She bounces off another falling rock, which then lands atop her, pinning her down. But it won't last...

>I can't let up. I have to stay on the offence.
>I can't beat her alone. I need to help Sae back up.

>>5328253
>I can't beat her alone. I need to help Sae back up.

>>5328253
>I can't beat her alone. I need to help Sae back up.
MORE DAKKA

>>5328253
>>I can't beat her alone. I need to help Sae back up.

>>5328253
>I can't let up. I have to stay on the offence.

>>5328253
>I can't let up. I have to stay on the offence.

Calling for
>I can't beat her alone. I need to help Sae back up.

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 30 (1d100)

>>5328279

Rolled 15 (1d100)

>>5328279
Let's see if we can push it.

Rolled 42 (1d100)

>>5328279
Relax guys I've got this.

Rolled 94 (1d100)

>>5328279

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>42

You can't let Selene escape, not now. She's much more powerful than any of you. This is your one shot to pin the demon down proper.

You reload, and open fire while she's pinned under the rock. Each explosive round goes off, creating a massive cloud of smoke, dust and fire in it's wake. Massive blocks of rock scatter in the debris of destruction that you cause, as you unfurl every last thing you have, never letting up for even a moment.

As the area covers in smoke, and your explosive ammo runs down, you find yourself panting for breath.

"... Do you think you got her?" Kats snarks.

Your eyes focus. A silhouette in the smoke. Moving fast.

Before you can react, a trident embeds its prongs into your chest. You gasp for air, but none comes. Selene removes the trident with a smirk, your blood shooting into the air, before kicking you back onto the ground. Your blood floats in droplets above as Selene holds them in her area, as she readies her pitchfork.

"Risa... dammit..." Sae mutters.

"Hey, don't die here!" Kats protests. "I died for you, yaknow! I'd like that to be worth something!"

You crawl back, as Selene pokes her trident at the ground around you, edging closer, like a cat playing with an injured mouse.

"And to think, we were friends once... uhh... I want to say... Mayu?" Selene says. "Is that right? Oh well. Don't answer. Just die."

"NOOOOO!"

With a yell, a small frame jumps between you and Selene, standing their ground. Followed by another frame, not much larger.

"I command you to back off!" Kuin protests. "My loyal subject is unarmed! You have won this duel!"

"Yeah!" Mai exclaims. "What kinda friends is so mean!"

Mai, ever naive, taking the demon at their word... these guys... they're weak, but they're standing before you.

No... they can't. They'll be slaughtered. You should be protecting them...

"Don't you get it now?" Kats sighs, sitting next to you. "This is what it's about, isn't it? Or did you forget that?"

"Kats..." you mutter.

Mai turns around. "Kats... oh no! Risa, don't go into the light! Don't join with him yet!"

"I'm not dying!" you protest.

Selene yawns. "Okay, if I have to slice through the weaklings... ooh, it actually sounds fun to make you watch!"

"Stop that!" Mai exclaims. "Stop... stop calling us the weaklings! We... we're still fighters!"

Selene only laughs, before raising her trident.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eFxMD3I2BIA

"THAT'S RIGHT!" Ukon's voice booms, as he comes leaping from the high point of the broken up cliff above. "WE AREN'T GOING TO SIT BY AND WATCH OUR FRIENDS GET HURT! WE'RE NOT THE BACK LINE!"

Selene looks confused, as Ukon's hands glow. With a variety of air punches, small orbs fill the air, raining down like a hail towards Selene.

"TAKE THIS!" Ukon declares. "BALL GAME!"

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Selene floats up to dodge the orbs, but there's so many of them. In mid-air, she gets caught in the barrage.

As the smoke clears, Selene remains in place, a raised eyebrow.

"That didn't hurt at all!" she gloats, as Ukon lands to your side, his knee buckling as he falls over. "You really are a... wait, where did the blonde go?"

You barely even noticed it yourself. Mai's charge in the midst of the chaos. From above, the energetic girl comes crashing down, and with a swing of her leg, she catches Selene in the back of the head. "MEGATON HEEEEEEEL!" Mai screams, as Selene comes crashing down at terminal velocity, smashing head first into the ground below. When the dust settles, Selene's head is stuck in the ground like an ostrich.

She pulls her face back, breaking up the earth beneath her. The demon's face is red with rage an embarrassment. "How... how dare you! Stop making me look like an idiot! That's it! You! Do me a favour and die!"

Selene picks her target... Kuin.

You try to move, but the pain in your chest keeps you pinned down. You can't reach in time.

... Luckily, someone else does.

Selene's trident is stopped in its tracks by the steel of a katana, as a large long-haired boy plants his feet, before the young woman he vowed to protect.

"Gado..." you mutter.

"Hey, that's my boy!" Kats cheers. "See? It's not hopeless!"

"Gado, you... huh?" Kuin mutters, as she notices what you see.

Despite his solemn face, a tear streaming from Gado's eye, floating up in the unholy winds. "This has been the worst damn day..." he mutters. "Thank you for being alive, lil sis."

He pushes Selene back, as you notice the rest who have arrived. Roka, Kiriko, Mayu, Tami, Ninsei, even Act...

... But somethings off. Even with Gado. Despite his burst, you can see the exhaustion.

This group have fought enough. Even the back-up is a spent force...

Sae picks herself up. "We're all a little bruised and beaten, huh?"

"What else is new?" Roka points out.

"Maybe together... even a wimp like Ukon can make a difference," Sae adds.

Huh... that's one way to put it.

"What do you think, Risa?" Kiriko asks. "All-out assault?"

>Yeah... let's kill her. Together.
>No, that won't be enough in our state. I need to unlock my next stage. I'm holding us back if I don't.

>>5328314
>Yeah... let's kill her. Together.
Teamwork and friendship>Sus angel powers
Also the bad roll was worth it for a rare Ukon and Mai badass moment.

>>5328314
>Yeah... let's kill her. Together.

>>5328314
>>Yeah... let's kill her. Together.

>>5328314
>Yeah... let's kill her. Together.
Can't believe things have went so badly for Class 1 that they need to rely on Ukon and Blonde Ukon with boobs

>>5328314
>>Yeah... let's kill her. Together
I can't believe Ukon and Mai actually did something!

>>5328314
>No, that won't be enough in our state. I need to unlock my next stage. I'm holding us back if I don't.

Calling for
>Yeah... let's kill her. Together.

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 7 (1d100)

>>5328336

Rolled 86 (1d100)

>>5328336
Finally my time to SHINE

Rolled 51 (1d100)

>>5328336
Friendship hoooo

>>5328338
You did shine anon, congrats.

File: Trivia_Risa.png (306 KB, 1078x594)

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Calling with
>86

Continuing with the update tomorrow, thanks for playing!

File: Selene11.png (1.15 MB, 734x1022)

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>86

Right... weakened or no, here you all still stand. You have your friends at your side... you have even more waiting on you, relying on you here.

You can't give in.

Gado clashes his blade against Selene's trident, but he clearly can't overpower the demon. With every moment, he's being pushed back, grimacing and baring his teeth.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2e0Cdi_TLY8

In a moment, the area is filled with hot steam. You cough, but you realise you're being obscured from Selene's view. Roka's work.

"Now you're all hiding?" Selene scoffs. "I thought I'd have more fun picking you apart!"

In a moment, Kiriko appears above the demon, coming down with her daggers. Selene smirks, her tendrils catching Kiriko in their gravity wave. "Nice try, but I won't get surprised again!"

Heh... she doesn't know. It's Kiriko.

"That so?" Kiriko smirks, before porting away, appearing before her.

Selene blocks the dagger slash. "No use! You couldn't hurt me if you wanted!"

"I know," Kiriko nods. "Ninja. Distraction. Boop."

As Kiriko ports away again, Selene is met with a massive block of ice being fired her way courtesy of Mayu, likely the last burst of energy the samurai seems capable of in this state. As she flies, Sae lights her up with more explosives.

"Now's your opening!" Sae exclaims to you. "Finish her!"

You raise your gun... but you can't pull the trigger.

He's in your way.

Kats... please move.

"What's stopping you?" he asks. "I'm just a hallucination, you know. I'm dead."

You grip the gun tight. Dammit, Kats...

"Oi!" Sae snaps to you. "Come on... what would Amaya think?"

Amaya. Of course.

Your best friend is still out there. Her... all of them... you own them everything.

It's time to live up your end of the bargain.

Sorry, Kats. You'll never forget him.

You fire through the spirit, and with a proud smile, he finally disappears.

Your ammo pierces into Selene, her eyes widening in rage as black blood spurts. She lets out an annoyed shriek. "I've had it with you people! Stop killing me! I'm sick of it!"

She charges, but you're ready.

File: Taiyo16.jpg (743 KB, 608x900)

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You feel it at your side. Massive, heavy, mechanical. Your arm has shifted.

It's not the complete transformation, but you don't need it. Not with your back-up, and not against this annoying bug.

One uppercut, and you catch Selene in the chin.

There is a moment's hesitation... before the moonchild is sent flying into the sky at mach speed, soon nothing but a glint on the horizon.

Selene; defeated.

As your arm returns to normal, you collapse into a seated position. You aren't alone.

"Damn..." Gado mutters. "End of the line for us, huh?"

"Sensei is still fighting the real deal..." you inform them.

Taiyo shakes his head. "He's in trouble... I can sense it... Tsuki is growing stronger by the second. I don't know what it is... but he's more dangerous than ever."

"How many giants do we have to slay?" Tami asks. "Even I'm out of energy!"

"It may be the end of the line for us..." Ninsei notes. "But Kazuma is still out there. Makoto, Amaya, Hanako... our job isn't done."

"You say that, but I don't see anyone able to move..." Sae notes.

"I thought Kaz was with you guys," you note. "What happened?"

Anri sighs. "He's gone after Chuichi, hasn't he?"

"Chuichi?" you ask.

Everyone goes silent.

After a moment, Roka speaks. "The green clown is the one who killed Yasunari. He's on some mission to wipe out every demon, and he said he's going to burn the academy down with it."

"What... are we talking about the same Chuichi?" you ask.

"He was faking everything," Ninsei replies. "His whole persona was a ruse, a mask for this mission of his."

Mayu steps forward, shaking her head. "No... that is not the case."

"What?"

"He was not lying... when he called us his friends."

>So... you're saying we can get through to him?
>Mayu, are you really that naive? If this is true, he played us all for fools!
>This betrayal... is Kaz going to save him? Or kill him?

>>5329069
>Mayu, are you really that naive? If this is true, he played us all for fools!
The ex demon host doesn't get a say in judging someone's character

>>5329069
>This betrayal... is Kaz going to save him? Or kill him?

Risa's just jealous Kaz is gonna give Chuichi the choke but not give it to her again

>>5329069
>So... you're saying we can get through to him?
I hope. Can you imagine how Kaz would be if he was forced to kill his best friend? He’s already not in a good place mentally and that would probably break him.

>>5329069
>Mayu, are you really that naive? If this is true, he played us all for fools!
Like a damn fiddle!

Calling for
>Mayu, are you really that naive? If this is true, he played us all for fools!

Writing now.

File: Mayu51.jpg (492 KB, 1000x1414)

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>Mayu, are you really that naive? If this is true, he played us all for fools!

Mayu looks at you, stone-faced.

"Did you forget the beach?"

You pause. "What?"

"When we went to the beach together..." Mayu continues. "Chuichi told us what happened to his parents. I still remember what he said... above all, he did not want another to feel the pain he felt."

"So?"

"You can call me naive," Mayu explains. "The way he spoke... I believed him. And... I know Kazuma believes him, too."

Naive... or just full of hope? You can't tell with her. Then again, it's not usual for Mayu to see the positive side of anything. Above all, she's honest... she's not just kidding herself, is she?

That day at the beach... the time you spent with Kats there. With the gang... it wasn't long ago, and yet it feels like a lifetime. Like a life you'll never return to after today.

The good old days are over. What remains for you all?


>POV: Takeshi

Flames lick up around you as deflect the sword attack from what was once a student of yours. This cruel, hateful demon... how could you have allowed him to operate under your nose? To hurt your kids! Dangit, you're supposed to me careful than that! What would Kankuro-sensei say if he could see you now?

Kakuro... that's right! Kazuma is still out there, and so is his sister! This isn't just your class you have a responsibility towards! It's Namika, it's Act-sensei, it's the parents and family who wish their children back... okay, maybe not Risa's father.

You step back and trip on a stone. "Whoops!" you exclaim, your focus breaking.

"Lost in thought?" Tsuki smirks. "You carry even more power than I thought, sensei... but it's always been clear what your weakness is. Too much overthinking, you're unable to apply that power in a meaningful way, correct?"

"I'll apply it to your face!" you exclaim.

Hm, not the best line. Oh well, your next comeback will slay.

"How were you ever trusted with the responsibilities of a teacher with that brain of yours?" Tsuki asks. "Or lack thereof. Why, I-"

Tsuki's next sentence is cut off by a flaming kick to the gut, as you send the demon crashing into a cliff face.

Much better comeback.

Tsuki collects himself. "Very well. I'll stop playing around, then."

That's fine with you.

>He may have all that fancy demon energy, but you're a better swordsman. Keep it to blades, and you'll come out on top.
>The kids aren't around, no need to worry about collateral. Scorched earth fire magic should pin him down!

>>5329161
>He may have all that fancy demon energy, but you're a better swordsman. Keep it to blades, and you'll come out on top.
As cool and badass nuclear Takeshi is, I don’t think he has more magical power than an archdemon so just keep slicing and dicing.

>>5329161
>The kids aren't around, no need to worry about collateral. Scorched earth fire magic should pin him down!
UNGA BUNGA

>>5329161
>The kids aren't around, no need to worry about collateral. Scorched earth fire magic should pin him down!
Let's see him finally cut loose

>>5329161
>>The kids aren't around, no need to worry about collateral. Scorched earth fire magic should pin him down!

Calling for
>The kids aren't around, no need to worry about collateral. Scorched earth fire magic should pin him down!

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 58 (1d100)

>>5329180

Rolled 88 (1d100)

>>5329180
Ohshit

Rolled 2 (1d100)

>>5329180

Rolled 31 (1d100)

>>5329180

File: Trivia_Takeshi.png (312 KB, 1100x622)

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Calling with
>88

Continuing with the fight tomorrow. Thanks for playing!

File: Tsuki01.png (1.12 MB, 1000x917)

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>88

It's been a while since you've had a chance to go all out. Usually Akihito beats you to it. But now, it's all on you!

Your blade glows a hot red before coating itself in flames. Seeing your fire magic in action takes your mind to one former student.

"Keiji..." you mutter.

You saw the look in his eye when you split up. If that was the last time you ever saw him... you wouldn't be surprised. But his sister, Kaiya... she's one of your kids. Regardless of anything else she might be...

"Mind elsewhere, T-sensei?" Takeshi mocks you.

You interrupt him with a blast of flames to the chest. "Listen up!" you warn. "There's been a whole lot of doom and gloom lately, and I don't like it! I'm bringing those kids home! All of them! You hear me?"

"I'm not the only threat here," Tsuki remarks.

"I know," you fire back. "I know that well! You, the demons, the monsters... and most of all, themselves... they stand in my class' way. I'm speaking to all of them!"

Tsuki twirls his sword. He's certainly had enough talk. So have you.

You hold out your arms, sending waves of fire directly to both sides. They curve around Tsuki, who leaps forward to avoid being consumed. "You'll have to do better than..." he begins, before realising. "Oh."

You weren't aiming for him, not yet. You were locking him in, surrounding him in a ring of fire. He'll have a hard time escaping this fight, trying any shenanigans elsewhere.

You don't give him a break. A fireball flings into his chest, and he flies back. Your second burst is deflected by his blade... so you make the third one bigger.

Tsuki notices the crater in the aftermath of tanking your third attack, steam and heat rising off of him. "You're strong, but you can't match the power of a god. You may be one of the most powerful humans, but all of you are beneath even the lowliest-"

You boot him in the head to stop him from talking. He hits the ground, his face careening across the sandy ground beneath him. As he picks himself up, he lets out a sigh.

"You don't want to play? Then neither do I," he warns.

Tsuki swings his blade, as purple crescent moons appear and float around him. Several dozen in an instant. The first flies, whizzing just past your face. You look back, seeing the moon blast away the flames behind you, before taking a massive chunk from the cliff it collides with. So... sharp.

>Best not get cut up by those things. Time for some fancy footwork.
>Keep the advance going. You can't let yourself switch to the defensive.

>>5330423
>>Best not get cut up by those things. Time for some fancy footwork.
Footloose

>>5330423
>Keep the advance going. You can't let yourself switch to the defensive.
BURN IT ALL

>>5330423
>Keep the advance going. You can't let yourself switch to the defensive.

>>5330423
>>Keep the advance going. You can't let yourself switch to the defensive.

As long as he has to dodge your/our shit, that's less shit he can throw at you/us. Don't let him get into a rhythm.

Calling for
>Keep the advance going. You can't let yourself switch to the defensive.

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 72 (1d100)

>>5330468

Rolled 92 (1d100)

>>5330468

Rolled 99 (1d100)

>>5330468

Rolled 38 (1d100)

>>5330468
Holy shit y'all

File: Takeshi07.png (123 KB, 960x800)

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>99

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

You waste no time, stepping forward. Careful on the footing, you don't want to trip at such a crucial moment. Wouldn't look cool.

"You're walking into a death-trap!" Tsuki cackles, as he launches a couple more of those razor moons at you.

You move your head to avoid them, not slowing your gait for a moment.

Tsuki's eyes widen. He didn't expect this from you. A mere human, is it?

He goes for a more direct projectile, aimed at your heart. You raise your blade, and sparks fly as the burst of flames coating your sword pushing back the moon, sending it recoiling back to its master.

As Tsuki dodges the reflected shot, you make your dash, appearing before him. "Let me ask you, demon... you know what a dream is?"

"Huh?" he asks, before you punch him in the face. Tsuki flies a good thirty feet, tumbling back.

You're not one to hold hate in your heart. You've always carried a smile on your face, a belief in the best of everyone... but there are some things you can't allow.

You know the suffering he has put your class through. He has inflicted pain and torture on children... children you're supposed to be responsible for! You thought you could even find the humanity in someone like him... but he does this all with a smile. That human face he wears is quite literally that, a horrific skin disguise. You can't let him continue.

"That's something that separates us, I take it," you note, before punching him again as you close the distance. This time, about thirty-two feet. "You can't fathom the true power behind the human spirit! You call us weak, but look at you! You live for yourself, you work on the basest, cruellest level, a worm who slithers in the dark... you could never hope to be as strong as a single human's ideal!"

Tsuki grimaces, before clenching his fist. The remainder of his floating projectiles close in on your back. You swing around, sending out a flashing streak of flames, that gobble them all up in one fell swoop.

With your back turned, Tsuki sees his chance. He lunges, thrusting his blade towards your back, but you're too quick.

And upward swing, and Tsuki's sword is knocked from his hands.

"H-how...?" Tsuki mutters, confused.

You stand, stone-faced before him. You channel your magic, as flames sprout from your back, creating an extra pair of arms. Heavy, flaming fists at the end.

And then your barrage begins.

File: Spoiler Image (169 KB, 850x1113)

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"THIS IS THE TRUE POWER OF HUMANITY! EAT THIS!" you exclaim, as your own fists and flaming constructs unload with a barrage of punches, juggling Tsuki in the air.

You lose count around the five-hundred mark.

One final shot to the jaw, and Tsuki soon crashes into the ground beneath you, an oozing pulp.

"You... how can you be so strong...?" Tsuki spits. "I took you as nothing but a fool..."

"I am a fool!" you admit. "And a darn good one, at that!"

"You... you..."

Tsuki begins to glow... and the ground beneath him shakes.

"I didn't want to go this far..." he admits, his human flesh tearing away at the seams. "But you're the real deal... I might lose control, but... it's time I got really serious."

A massive blast of his aura pushes you back, as the transformation takes place. The human rips away, and from it emerges a misshapen, hairy horned giant. Standing over fifteen feet in height, and still growing.

Its massive clawed hand lunges forward, and you barely escape. This power coming from him... this....


>Meanwhile

Taiyo falls to his knees. That rush... that power...

"What's wrong?" Kiriko asks.

Sae lets out a groan. "Something else better not be exploding, Sunny! I've hit my disaster quota for today!"

"Tsuki... he's been pushed to that..." Taiyo mutters. "If... If I don't do something..."

"What?"

"Takeshi-sensei... doesn't stand a chance... he's going to die."


>POV: Takeshi

What the heck is this thing?!

Tsuki sweeps his arms, and the wave kicks you up into the air. You create a wave of flames, surfing it down to course correct, but you can make out the damage that one swing did on your environment. The earth below deepened, all rock walls caved in... it's a good thing the kids didn't follow you here, they would have been toast.

"So... this is what The Moon really looks like..." you admit. "You didn't want to transform to your demon form... why? I remember The Eclipse. Without your other half... you have all that power, but you're a crawling mass, is that it? You have no control over your own form?"

The Moon lets out a growl, which turns into an open howl, the sound pulsating enough. You can feel your ear-drums vibrate, even after covering your ears to prevent them bleeding. No more comebacks, then. He can't hear you.

>He's still made of flesh... or at least something solid! Time to keep up the barrage!
>This is bad... time to play the dodging game, try to figure out a weak-point before rushing in.

>>5330524
>>This is bad... time to play the dodging game, try to figure out a weak-point before rushing in.
Beeeg Moon

>>5330524
>>This is bad... time to play the dodging game, try to figure out a weak-point before rushing in.

>>5330524
>He's still made of flesh... or at least something solid! Time to keep up the barrage!
Cook him

>>5330524
>He's still made of flesh... or at least something solid! Time to keep up the barrage!

Idiots only have one way to go, and that is forwards

>>5330524
>He's still made of flesh... or at least something solid! Time to keep up the barrage!

Calling for
>He's still made of flesh... or at least something solid! Time to keep up the barrage!

Roll 1d100, BO3.

>>5330524
>>This is bad... time to play the dodging game, try to figure out a weak-point before rushing in
Kill it with fire is not always the best solution.

Rolled 68 (1d100)

>>5330541
Rollin

Rolled 29 (1d100)

>>5330541

Rolled 28 (1d100)

>>5330541
Aaaaa

Rolled 63 (1d100)

>>5330541

File: Tsuki_(The Moon)03.jpg (224 KB, 1212x920)

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>68

You can't let up now. You have to keep on the offence. This transformation is bad news, and if you hesitate you're in big trouble.

You unleash a barrage of fireballs upon The Moon, clouding it in a wave of flames. Before long, there's so much smoke you can't even make out its silhouette, but you don't let up on the barrage.

While firing, you suddenly feel an overwhelming presence behind you. No... no way... you had him pinned down...

You turn, to see the hulking beast flying up behind you, smoke rising from his skin. He's so fast, but more worrying... you didn't miss. All of that... it hit him. And he simply continued to move.

Before you can react, The Moon swats you down. You are launched hard to the ground. As you hit the earth you bounce up, and Tsuki is quick on the pursuit. His clawed hand pins you down, pushing you into the earth.

Darn it... now he's got you pinned. And he made it look easy...

You don't want to do this, but desperate times.

You focus your energy, and feel your body heat up. This technique... you rarely do it solo. Without Tekina to provide the necessary buffs, it can wreck your body... but it's better that than let The Moon tear you apart.

"FIRE THUNDER DRIVER!" you exclaims, as the searing heat courses through your body, hitting an climax point... coating you in an explosive blast.

You move quick to escape the crater left in your wake. Without the 'thunder' aspect of that technique, the blast can't be channelled and darn, you can already feel it in your insides. Overheating like that so quick took so much out of you... but you were backed into a corner. Creating a distance through any means, even blowing yourself up a little, was top priority.

As the smoke clears, The Moon is still there, but you've closed enough distance that he doesn't notice you immediately. That's the only good part here...

You think about Tekina and Akihito. You rarely fight without the other two thirds of the Thunder-Fire-Rock trio, and for good reason. Yeah, there's all that innate power, Wei's told you about it so much...

... But you're still a dummy. Without their support, their guidance... all that power goes to waste, doesn't it?

You have to act quick, but even an attack with that much power, one you sacrificed your body for... could only even stagger him for a moment. If this continues... you'll be pushed to the brink of using... that.

But no, you still have more kids to find after this battle. You have to reign in that power, walk away from this battle... key word being walk. You know you can defeat this beast, but the quick method will leave you too spent to save the others. No... you have to think smarter. Like a smart guy.

How do you do that, again?

>The key here is to limit his movement. Closing him in will let me get a proper stab in on him.
>It's an uncontrollable form, his shape keeps changing at the joints... if I target him in areas that are mid-transition, I might be hitting his weak-spots.

>>5330569
>It's an uncontrollable form, his shape keeps changing at the joints... if I target him in areas that are mid-transition, I might be hitting his weak-spots.
That’s the hardest thinking T-dawg has done in years.

>>5330569
>>It's an uncontrollable form, his shape keeps changing at the joints... if I target him in areas that are mid-transition, I might be hitting his weak-spots
Big T's gotta hit them mid-T spots

>>5330569
>It's an uncontrollable form, his shape keeps changing at the joints... if I target him in areas that are mid-transition, I might be hitting his weak-spots.
Work the joints

>>5330569
>It's an uncontrollable form, his shape keeps changing at the joints... if I target him in areas that are mid-transition, I might be hitting his weak-spots.

The smoke pouring of Takeshi is a 50/50 split
Half from blowing himself up
Half from being required to think for more than 30 consecutive seconds

>>5330569
>The key here is to limit his movement. Closing him in will let me get a proper stab in on him.

>>5330569
>The key here is to limit his movement. Closing him in will let me get a proper stab in on him.
Go for the visceral

Calling for
>It's an uncontrollable form, his shape keeps changing at the joints... if I target him in areas that are mid-transition, I might be hitting his weak-spots.

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 90 (1d100)

>>5330602
Braincells activate!

Rolled 43 (1d100)

>>5330602
BIG T DOING BIG D(amage)

Rolled 70 (1d100)

>>5330602
John Madden?

File: Trivia_Taiyo.png (331 KB, 1323x622)

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Calling with
>90

Will be continuing the fight tomorrow. Thanks for playing!

File: Takeshi17.jpg (59 KB, 850x860)

59 KB JPG

>10 Years ago

"Keep your damn chin up, Takeshi!"

You dodge Akihito's attack, just barely. For his second kick, you raise your arms, but that's just not enough defence. You crash along the ground, staggering back, before another crucial punch sends you crashing into the ground.

As you lay there, you hear the scoffing from the crowd around. You let a laugh yourself. "Wow!" you chuckle. "You really got me that time!"

Akihito remains stone-faced. "Don't you have any respect as a man?"

"Not really!"

"Pathetic..." Akihito grumbles. "You'll never amount to anything at this rate."

Despite that trash-talk, he still offers his hand, helping you to your feet.

"I'll be sure to kick your ass tomorrow, too."

"Thanks, buddy."

"Not your buddy."

This was the deal.

You and Akihito would duel. Every single day. Until you could surpass him in strength.

This was fight number fifty-four. Another loss.

The crowd has dwindled ever day since the beginning, as the result would become more predictable. Tiresome. Those that stayed... their initial interest and support turning to derision.

Except for Unagi.

Every day, she would come out, and cheer for you. Each time, with the same fervour as the first.

And once again, you disappoint.

The teachers tried to put a stop to this the first few go arounds, but you insisted it was fair sparing each-time. Now, they just watch to make sure it doesn't get out of hand.

Unagi offers you water, and wishes you better luck next time. As she walks off, you overhear the two watching from the raised slope. Your teacher, Kankuro Asai, and your principal, Wei Kobashi.

"We just witnessed something special, Old Dragon..." Kankuro smirks. "The kid who is going to leave us old geezers in his dust."

"Indeed, the younger Naito is something special," Wei remarks. "He has a calmer mind than any of his brothers. If he can channel that..."

"I wasn't talking about Aki," Kankuro responds.

As the crowd disperses, Kankuro approaches. Your mouth always goes dry in his presence. This guy... the most powerful human to ever live. He's your teacher, you see him every day... and yet the feeling of awe never goes away.

"We need to talk, rooster."

"I didn't manage it this time, sensei..." you admit with a smile. "But next time will be better!"

Kankuro steps forward, looking into the distance. He won't match your eyes. "Rooster, do you know how many men, how many beasts, have come at me? How many of them have come at me with all of their power, all of their intent, all of their will?"

"A lot?"

"Countless. I've know what a man's killing intent looks like... and I know I haven't seen yours."

File: Tsuki_(The Moon)02.png (744 KB, 900x800)

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"What?"

Kankuro shakes his head. "You've been holding back. You could have beaten him from the beginning."

You pause. "Well, that's..."

"True, isn't it?"

"Not really!" you protest.

"I know the power you carry. I've seen it first hand. Why haven't you stricken him down?" Kankuro asks. "Why do you willingly make yourself look a fool?"

"Because..." you pause. "I don't want to hurt him!"

Kankuro pauses. "Rooster... it's a fight. People get hurt."

"I know, but..." you mutter. "I want to win, without doing something that could hurt him. It's not about pulling my punches... it's about controlling them."

Kankuro laughs. "You're afraid of your own strength, then? Listen... this is not the place to shy away from that. A full force punch is the difference between saving lives and becoming a footnote in an agent's list."

Kankuro turns to leave. "Figure it out, rooster. Only you can."

>Present Day
>90

You've always been careful to hold back. To never go too far. Flames are volatile... and you've never been able to reign them in. But this... this is an enemy you don't have to protect.

You create a streak of fire, and send it directly towards one of the looser, forming parts of The Moon's flesh. The beast reacts strongly, it's flesh becoming more liquid as it lets out a roar.

You come in with a slash of the blade, and soon The Moon is separated from one of its arms. It spins it's head towards you and charges, but you pull your blade up, keeping the creature at bay. It begins to push back, as your soles scrape along the ground, trying to find a solid footing. Eventually, a stalemate is reached, but the pressure it's pushing with... sonic booms fly out, forming new craters along the ground.

You have the power. The Moon is one of the greatest foes you've ever seen... but once upon a time, so was Akihito.

As Tsuki stares you in the eye with a vicious growl, you smile.

>You had me going, there! My next hit will be stronger, are you ready for it?
>... I'm going to hurt you.
>I'm going to back with those kids in five minutes, do you understand?

>>5331645
>I'm going to back with those kids in five minutes, do you understand?

>>5331645
>>I'm going to back with those kids in five minutes, do you understand?
Oh fuck

>>5331645
>... I'm going to hurt you.
A lot apparently

>>5331645
>>I'm going to back with those kids in five minutes, do you understand?

Calling for
>I'm going back to those kids in five minutes, do you understand?

Writing now.

File: Jun04.jpg (285 KB, 707x1000)

285 KB JPG

>Ten Years Ago

"You asked to see me, principal?"

Wei looks out his window, his back turned to you.

"I sure hope I'm not in trouble!" you chuckle. "I know that restroom is staff only, but the student one was flooded, and-"

"I heard you finally beat him."

You pause.

"You beat Akihito, did you not?" Wei asks, turning his head to face you.

"Oh... sure did!" you beam.

Wei leans against his desk. "How many tries was that?"

"One-hundred and twenty seven."

"Every single day for over four months..." Wei remarks. "Shusaku... I knew your uncle. Well, great uncle."

You nod. "That's right, uncle Jun. He was in the first class, right? I wish I could have met him..."

"He was a great fighter, and a greater man..." Wei reflects. "Better than I could ever hope to be. He... was my best friend."

Wei pauses for a moment, memories dancing in his mind. "Do you know how I met your great uncle?"

"How?"

"He..." you almost notice a small smile on Wei's face. "He was picking a fight with Akihito's grandfather."

You let out a laugh. "We were kinda alike, huh? I always saw the family resemblance in his pictures..."

Wei goes quiet, before looking at a framed photo on his desk. A black-and-white photo, of a bunch of kids. You recognise Jun there, you recognise the legendary Mizuki Kobashi... this was Wei's group.

"The day we lost him... Jun watched the heavens themselves crash down upon him... and he faced it with a smile. I can see it in you, boy... you'll be like him, some day."

You sigh. "I keep trying to control this power-"

"Power? I mean nothing of the sort," Wei interrupts. "Takeshi... I have a granddaughter. The Nakatonis have a daughter. The Asais have two children. There's even another young Naito sprog stumbling about. There's another generation brimming under our feet, and it's already at your heels. One day... you'll be the gatekeeper for those who will come after. The others with the misfortune of carrying our great burden. But I see the smile you carry... you have a stronger will than I. Stronger than Act Nakatoni. Even stronger than Kankuro Asai."

"Sensei..."

"Promise me, when the time comes..." Wei sighs. "Well, I won't be here forever. Keep the path clear for them. As I did for Asai. As Asai did for you."

He turns his attention back out the window. "The path we walk is one none should have to tread. But we can only ensure that when it comes time for another to brave the dark... we ensure the torch is still burning."

"I... I promise."

Wei nods. "Good. There's some mints on my desk. Thank you for your time."

That was the day you finally defeated Akio, ending one hundred and twenty seven straight days of embarrassment and pain.

And yet, what you remember most... was those mints. Those were good mints.

File: Tsuki_(The Moon)04.jpg (238 KB, 1200x675)

238 KB JPG

>Present Day
>I'm going back to those kids in five minutes, do you understand?

The Moon pauses for a moment. Despite his form, Tsuki understands you, doesn't he?

He sees the threat ahead of him. You know even now, he hasn't given you his worst... and that's mutual.

But it seems Tsuki has some tricks up his sleeve. Or rather, arm.

The removed appendage moves on the ground... he still has control of it!

You're too busy holding back his frontal assault, you can't stop it... the massive claw launches itself... as four monstrous claws collide, piercing your abdomen.

You cough up blood, as Tsuki's beastly form lets out a triumphant laugh.


>POV: Risa

"He isn't back yet..."

Taiyo's eyes suddenly widen. "No... he can't be... even now..."

"What?" Roka asks.

Taiyo gulps. "I don't know how... but his strength keeps increasing. As my power weakens, his continues to grow. I... I have no choice."

Light begins to emanate from the archdemon. "What are you doing?" you ask. "You're in no state to fight!"

"I know..." Taiyo remarks. "Just this transformation alone... I'm sorry, but this will take my life from the strain. But... if my sacrifice can take out The Moon in turn, to ensure your safety... then it will be worth it."

Taiyo's shining form begins to unleash... before his transformation is interrupted by a slap.

Kiriko stands before him, red in the face. "What the hell are you talking about?! Sacrificing yourself?! Do you even get what we're doing here? This is a rescue mission, idiot! What use is that if one of us dies!"

"This is the only way-"

"That's the worst part!" Kiriko exclaims. "Are you stupid?"

"... What?"

"Come on!" Kiriko almost begins to laugh from the thought. "Do you... really have that little faith in our sensei?"

File: Takeshi09.jpg (205 KB, 1000x1167)

205 KB JPG

>POV: Takeshi

As his arm reattaches to the full form, Tsuki grabs you by the throat, hoisting you up. The Moon pulls its claws from your midsection, and you can see the look on his face is one of victory. He squeezes tighter... as you let out a laugh.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-w6SzAFr5c

"Do you think I'm trouble?" you ask. "Sorry to disappoint... Flashing Phoenix."

The Moon blinded with the bright flash of flame that covers your body, forcing him to release his grip on you. As the flames spread, they gain a shape around your body. A thin layer, an aura, around your entire being.

You have to hand it to him... you should have figured you'd have to use this technique.

Flashing Phoenix... the control of all that power inside you. Your body is basically an exhaust port, with waves upon waves of magic pumping from your skin and entering the air, bolstering everything you do at a consistent rate. Of course, leaking all of your energy into the open air means you can't keep this technique up... and it requires great focus to avoid the fire to spin out of control. You've only got, at most, two minutes, before you're completely spent.

At most, you need one.

You lunge forward with a gut punch, catching the monster. As you do, pulsating fire fist push him forward for another eight waves, sending him flying.

He corrects himself in the air, before launching a massive blast of demon energy your way. You fire back with your own, and the blasts collide to cause an explosion in the air. No doubt your class saw that, even from so far away. They'll know this fight is still going.

>If he wants an air battle, I'll give him one.
>Time to ground him, drown this monster in flames.

>>5331712
>>If he wants an air battle, I'll give him one.

>>5331712
>Time to ground him, drown this monster in flames.
Nice, we've finally got the comic relief characters revealing their power levels

>>5331712
>>If he wants an air battle, I'll give him one.
Anti air Takeshi

>>5331712
>Time to ground him, drown this monster in flames.
Get even hotter

>>5331712
>If he wants an air battle, I'll give him one
Fly! T Sensei Fly!

Calling for
>If he wants an air battle, I'll give him one

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 58 (1d100)

>>5331750

Rolled 77 (1d100)

>>5331750
Let's keep the win streak going

Rolled 83 (1d100)

>>5331750

File: Trivia_Kiriko.png (289 KB, 1100x622)

289 KB PNG

Calling it with
>83

Continuing tomorrow, thanks for playing!

File: Takeshi11.jpg (372 KB, 2048x998)

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>83

You let the flames carry you up, your speed picking up as your gain traction. Tsuki launches a massive claw at you. You block with your sword, grinding under his attempts at a punch, before launching yourself with a headbutt to the creatures gut.

You fly back, landing an uppercut while he's doubled over, sending him spinning.

You don't have much time, you have to finish this as soon as possible.

Tsuki fires forward with a blast of dark energy in the middle of the air. You fire back with flames, colliding and struggling in the air.

Even with all of your technique... he grows stronger too. To think, this is the power of an almighty archdemon... their reputation is well earned. You struggle, grimacing as his beam begins to gain the advantage.

... You've always been a simple guy. Everyone says so.

You remember when you couldn't even do a single push-up. You remember when you couldn't do five. You remember when you couldn't beat Akihito.

And you're certain there was a time that you couldn't win this fight, either... but that's passed.

You press forward. You won't be able to walk after this, but if you lose here, your kids are in danger. You can't allow that.

With a mighty push, the flames exhaust from your body, pushing through all of Tsuki's efforts, and completely coating The Moon in flames. You keep pressing, channelling the flames downward, sending your opponent crashing into the ground below.

As the crash site clears, you see Tsuki has reverted back to his human form.

You float down. You've only got this technique active for a few more seconds... but he looks even more spent than you.

"Damn it all..." Tsuki mutters. "I was so close to reaching full..."

He looks up at you, his eyes widening. "Come now, sensei... surely we can talk this out?"

Your eyes glow, looking upon him.

He pauses. "Your power... I thought you were nothing more than a fool. Just who are you?"

>I'm Takeshi Shusaku. I'm a teacher at Dakugeto. I was also a janitor.
>Change your ways, or I'll have to destroy you.
>No words. Just send him packing.

>>5333530
>No words. Just send him packing.
Get 'em out a heeere

>>5333530
>I'm Takeshi Shusaku. I'm a teacher at Dakugeto. I was also a janitor.

>>5333530
>>I'm Takeshi Shusaku. I'm a teacher at Dakugeto. I was also a janitor.
Sorry Moonboy but you don't have any tickets for the redemption raffle.

>>5333530
>>No words. Just send him packing.
Get outta here!

>>5333530
>I'm Takeshi Shusaku. I'm a teacher at Dakugeto. I was also a janitor.

Am*
Fixed it for you Booker

Calling for
>I'm Takeshi Shusaku. I'm a teacher at Dakugeto. I was also a janitor.

Writing now.

File: Takeshi13.jpg (766 KB, 4096x2896)

766 KB JPG

>I'm Takeshi Shusaku. I'm a teacher at Dakugeto. I was also a janitor.

"I... know all of that, already..." Tsuki mutters, confused.

You light up your leg. "Then you should have known better."

One last burst through a final kick, and the weakened Tsuki is sent flying, bounding through the air before entirely leaving your field of vision.

Hey, that was a decent line for once! You should write it down so you don't forget.

You turn to move, and instantly fall flat on your face. Uh oh.

You had hoped you could at least make it back to the kids first.

You dig your hands into the ground, but the rest of you is completely dead weight. You could try to crawl... but at this rate, that would take forever.

... You start crawling.

You keep crawling, your face down in the red hot dirt, just pushing your limp body along... until the top of your head bumps against something. A rock face.

You strain to pull your head up, as you examine what's in front of you.

Hmm... yep.

You've been crawling the wrong way for the last five minutes.

You let out a sigh, before trying to turn yourself around. As you do, you hear a voice.

"Sensei?"

You lift your head, to see the group approaching. Risa, Mai, Ukon, Sae, Kuin, Taiyo... those left behind with Selene, and even more. Kiriko, Roka, Gado, Tami, Ninsei... they're here. They're safe.

"What's going on?" Sae asks.

"Oh... you know," you try to put on a casual tone. "Just chilling. Hanging out. Feeling the breeze."

"Did you lose?" Ukon asks.

Mayu shakes her head. "No. If he had lost, he would be dead."

"Bingo!"

"So... you really did it..." Taiyo mutters, as he approaches. "Sensei, I'm sorry. I doubted you..."

He helps you up, as the rest of the students get a good look at your face, and what's running down it.

"Are you crying?" Risa asks.

You purse your lips, before cracking. "Yeah... because you're all okay! But... I can't protect the others! There's still more out there and, and..."

You sniff, as Kiriko gives you a nod. "Hey, T-dawg... you have to have some faith in them, too."

Some faith in them?

Right... it's like Wei said. They'll be the next generation. Kazuma, Makoto, Amaya... maybe they'll surpass you some day.

... But Chuichi. Darn it... you wanted to keep him safe too.

File: Hanako08.jpg (113 KB, 850x637)

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>POV: Hanako

"The tracks are lost..." Concordia mutters. "And now, so are we. There's no trace of your friends."

"Kaiya..." you mutter. "What do you think you're doing?"

"Something was very odd about her when she left..." Manabu notes. "This is where it all ends... why did she say that? Huh, Alice?"

Manabu looks to Alice, but she doesn't answer. It's all so confusing... why did Kaiya leave? Why were there suddenly two tracks? Why did she make an effort to conceal them after that.

Alice's face has been stern. No hopping or skipping, no lightness in her movement. Alice has rare moments of severity... but she's actually deep in thought. You have to wonder... is she conversing with The Dreamer? How much can that demon actually provide in terms of information.

The tracks missing cause you to panic. You pick up the pace, and you overstepping causes some ground beneath you to give way. Uh-oh.

Concordia catches you by the shirt, pulling you to safety. "Careful, blue friend of my master. There are sinkholes around here... attached to tar pits. You'll easily get swallowed up if you're not careful."

"Wait... there, in the distance..." Manabu notes as he points across the delicate area. "A fortress... demons are capable of building fortresses?"

"Yes, my former master has quite the kingdom," Concordia explains. "The Conqueror took over much of the land, building more civilised constructs in his wake."

"The Conqueror?!" you yelp. "I remember that guy! He held that tournament!"

Alice nods. "I want to fight him. Dreamer says she hates him."

"My lady!" Concordia protests. "I am under your tutelage to gain the respect of the great Conqueror! You cannot force me to choose between my allegiances!"

"Yes I can," Alice states in a neutral tone, scratching her head. "See, just did."

Concordia shakes her head. "Regardless... that fortress does not belong to The Conqueror..."

You pause. "So... The Conqueror isn't the only Archdemon with ruling lands?"

"Far from it," Concordia explains. "While our world may be mostly comprised of vast wildlands, we host as many civilisations as you otherworlders. But this..."

Concordia's eyes are wide. Were she human, she'd no doubt be sweating. "This could be one of... that figure's..."

"That figure?" you ponder. "What do-"

Alice shoots forwards, suddenly. He bounces along, the tips of her shoes touching the sinkhole but bounding clear over them. "My lady, what are you doing?!" Concordia asks.

That answer becomes clear once a blazing ball of fire comes raining from the sky. Alice closes her eyes, before a giant pair of scissors appears in her hand. She snips through the meteor, which falls to the wayside.

What just caused that? Fire... it couldn't be.

Approaching, in the distance... you hear the sound of singing.

File: Kaiya01.jpg (179 KB, 850x850)

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"When a man's an empty kettle, he should be on his mettle, and yet I'm torn apart..."

The singing grows closer, but you've already recognised the voice.

Kaiya.

"Just because I'm presumin', that I could be kinda human... if I only had a heart."

Alice stands before you and your friends as she approaches with a smile.

"Kaiya!" you exclaim.

"... This is the part where we fight, right?" Alice asks.

"Meat boy..."

"Chuichi?" you pause. "What happened to him?"

Kaiya doesn't answer, but sends another course of flames your way.

Concordia jumps in, deflecting the attack with a double swing of her oversized spears.

What's going on? Is Kaiya under some kind of mind control? Why is she attacking her friends?

"Kaiya, it's me-"

"I know."

"Stay back, lady!" Concordia exclaims. "I'll handle this!"

Kaiya shakes her head. "You cannot move from here... if you do, they all die."

"Not if I can help it! It's time to prove my training!" Concordia exclaims.

>Double spear thrust in order to pin down Kaiya.
>Stay on the defensive. Don't let those flames get near the rest of the group.

>>5333637
>>Double spear thrust in order to pin down Kaiya.
Concordia seems to be a Leeroy jenkins type of girl

>>5333637
>>Double spear thrust in order to pin down Kaiya.

>>5333637
>Double spear thrust in order to pin down Kaiya.
No matter how many times the bull's horns are dodged or turned aside it will still rush head first at the Matador

>>5333637
>Stay on the defensive. Don't let those flames get near the rest of the group.

>>5333637
>>Double spear thrust in order to pin down Kaiya

Calling for
>Double spear thrust in order to pin down Kaiya.

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 39 (1d100)

>>5333661

Rolled 16 (1d100)

>>5333661

Rolled 68 (1d100)

>>5333661
Aaaaaa

Rolled 52 (1d100)

>>5333661

File: Trivia_Hanako.png (390 KB, 1463x577)

390 KB PNG

Calling with
>68

Fight will begin proper starting tomorrow, thanks for playing!

File: Kaiya17.jpg (992 KB, 824x1124)

992 KB JPG

>68

Concordia dashes along the ground, avoiding the sinking parts of the floor beneath her. She thrusts her spears, and a stationary Kaiya is bowled over. As Kaiya lays back, Concordia plants her weapons to either side, trapping her in place. "There's no going anywhere."

"I know," Kaiya replies, before blasting Concordia in the chest with a fireball.

Concordia flies back, landing on her feet, as Kaiya picks herself up. She just hit your ally... and that massive ball she hurled at your group earlier... what is happening?

"Kaiya!" you exclaim. "Is someone controlling you or something?"

"No."

What could have happened since the time you were separated.

Concordia grimaces. "Hot... she's strong... My lady, she... what?"

As Concordia speaks, Alice closes her eyes... before falling back, landing on the ground, unconscious.

"Did... did Alice just faint?" you ask. "Wait... did she fall asleep?!"

"A bad time for that to kick in!" Manabu exclaims, before drawing his sword. "Hold on, Concordia! You're not alone! I made a vow to-"

"NO!" Concordia snaps. "Stay out of this, little boy! I refuse to be embarrassed here!"

Kaiya pauses, looking to Concordia. "The concord... the harmony..."

"What did you say?" Concordia's eyes perk up. "How do you know...?"

"Who is Harmonia?"

Concordia snaps, charging, but Kaiya halts her march with a wall of fire.

This is so strange... you can't even process this. "Kaiya... come to your senses!" you exclaim. "Think about your brother! We need to get home, he must be-"

"My brother is dead," Kaiya remarks.

"What?" you mutter. Your own brother flashes in your mind, for but a moment... but you quickly push him out. Focus on the now, Hanako... "What do you mean?"

"He's dead," Kaiya casually answers. "I killed him. My chains are broken."

She... killed him? No, that can't be...

Wait... if Keiji is dead, then that also means...

"...There's no coming back," you mutter. "This is your last life."

Kaiya pauses, her face grim. Where is that smile?! You want her to smile...

"I know... and it ends here."

>Concordia: Kick up some speed and momentum, use those weapons to push away the flames.
>Concordia: Draw out Kaiya, let her lower her defences and find an opening while she's on the attack.

>>5335107
>>Concordia: Kick up some speed and momentum, use those weapons to push away the flames.

>>5335107
>>Concordia: Kick up some speed and momentum, use those weapons to push away the flames.

>>5335107
>Concordia: Kick up some speed and momentum, use those weapons to push away the flames.
Can't let the best seer die, she actually earns us about the future

>>5335107
>Concordia: Draw out Kaiya, let her lower her defences and find an opening while she's on the attack.

Calling for
>Concordia: Kick up some speed and momentum, use those weapons to push away the flames.

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 7 (1d100)

>>5335135

Rolled 16 (1d100)

>>5335135

Rolled 32 (1d100)

>>5335135

Rolled 6 (1d100)

>>5335135
Let's see how lucky she compared to T dawg and the students

File: Trivia_Roka.png (237 KB, 922x622)

237 KB PNG

Calling with
>32

Continuing tomorrow, thanks for playing!

>>5335139
Not very it seems

File: Harmonia02.jpg (868 KB, 850x1209)

868 KB JPG

>Some Time Ago

“Concordia… you must go. All of you, you must go…”

“My lady, no!” Concordia protest. She holds her lady tight, grabbing her by the arms.

Harmonia’s hand lays gently upon Concordia’s head. “Pax, Eris… the three of you must keep word of our existence alive.”

“My lady, you can escape too!” Pax exclaims. “The Conqueror… he will make you a servant, or… he’ll hang your head as a trophy! You have to-”

“I will not leave my village,” Harmonia states.

“The village has already been razed!” Pax protest. “You-“

“Pax, that is enough…” Harmonia interrupts. “I promised my people… if they could stand till their last for this village, then so shall I. But… the Conqueror’s Smiling End will soon arrive. Soon, this village will be nothing but a crater. You three… please, if you go now, you will make it clear of the blast. I need you… to keep on the word. To die is one thing… but you must let the people know that… we once lived.”

“No!” Concordia, the youngest of the group, cries. “We… we can take on the Smiling End together. We… we can-“

“Concordia, you aren’t strong enough.”

Concordia was pulled away by Pax soon after, dragged kicking and screaming out the door. Her mistress unsheathed her blade… and that was the last Concordia saw of Harmonia.

The wasteland outside the village was cruel. Concordia was separated from her companions, and was forced to travel alone. She hid, assuming a new life in the Conqueror’s capital… the grand city of Olympus. It was there that she received word, a letter from Eris… their mistress was still alive, but a prisoner of that horrid god.

To gain access, she would need to gain his trust. There was only one thing The Conqueror valued, however… strength. Joining his army, Concordia trained non-stop… if she could become one of his generals… she could get close enough to drive that blade into his back.

But no… that tournament with the Otherworlders proved all.

She wasn’t strong enough.

A figure from another world, without hesitation, took Concordia in. The kindness, the openness she felt that day… there was only one person this Alice Maddox reminded her of.

And for that… she would protect this otherworlder with her life.

File: Concordia04.jpg (203 KB, 800x1129)

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>Current Day

Concordia outstretches her arms, kicking up some momentum and applying force to her spears. You watch as she adds a spin, kicking up a wind resistance that blasts through the flames, leaving Kaiya open… but Kaiya is prepared.

She brandishes her own spear and charges forward. Concordia blocks, but Kaiya is too strong. The demon is pushed back, as your friend sends her on the defensive.

“No… I won’t be too weak!” Concordia exclaims. “I can’t!”

“Yes… but right now you are,” Kaiya pauses… you can tell another prophecy hits her. “The Smiling End wears a frown… the one who turns from destiny welcomes it… you will not receive the revenge you seek. The Harmony will be silenced.”

“Shut up!” Concordia exclaims, but her snap in focus leaves an opening. Kaiya’s spear finds itself piercing through her shoulder.

You stumble back in shock. Kaiya… no…

Kaiya raises Concordia up, and tosses her behind, before unloading with fireballs without even so much as looking in that direction. Concordia is lit up, and when the smoke clears, she is left leaning on her spear, singed and breathing deeply.

“No… I’m still too…” she mutters, before groaning and collapsing on her face. Her breaths laboured as she lays there, and Kaiya continues her approach.

She… she wouldn’t…

Kaiya blocks an attack from the side, Manabu coming in with his katana. Manabu jumps back, but stands in a battle ready position.

“You won’t take another step further!” Manabu exclaims. “I won’t let you lay a hand on Alice!”

>Manabu: Dash around, try to find an opening.
>Hanako: If you stand between Kaiya and Alice, she won’t attack… right?

>>5335856
>>Manabu: Dash around, try to find an opening.

>>5335856
>Hanako: If you stand between Kaiya and Alice, she won’t attack… right?
Get those Nat 1's ready

>>5335856
>Hanako: If you stand between Kaiya and Alice, she won’t attack… right?

Ever picking a mini-yam option
Kek

>>5335856
>>Hanako: If you stand between Kaiya and Alice, she won’t attack… right?

>>5335856
>>Manabu: Dash around, try to find an opening.
I think, It's too early for the friendship no jutsu

Calling for
>Hanako: If you stand between Kaiya and Alice, she won’t attack… right?

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 71 (1d100)

>>5335882

Rolled 96 (1d100)

>>5335882

Rolled 10 (1d100)

>>5335882

File: Trivia_Sae.png (266 KB, 926x585)

266 KB PNG

Calling with
>96

That'll be all for tonight, will be continuing with hopefully a much longer session tomorrow! Thanks for playing!

File: Kaiya29.jpg (92 KB, 1032x1457)

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>Years ago

“And now… stepping up to the plate, Chishiki’s very own baseball prodigy…”

“… And it’s another homerun! We gotta say, folks, the future looks bright for young Kaiya Ki.”

“The future looks bright!”

A ballet dancer, a singer, a baseball star… every door was open for a young Kaiya Ki. Not only was she massively skilled in everything she pursued, from hobbies to academics, she was a popular, social outgoing girl… she had many friends, but curiously no best friend.

There was often praise heaped upon Kaiya, not only from toadying hangers-on, but from every authority in her life. Her parents treated her as some golden calf, an admiration not afforded to her younger brother. Every time, Kaiya would respond with humble smiles and polite words, before continuing with that which she loved.

That which she loved… Kaiya never sought success, as many ascribed to her. She liked to sing, but she had no aspirations of being a singer. She liked ballet, but had no aspirations of being a dancer. She liked baseball, but only wanted to play it with friends. No friend ever wanted to play baseball with her, she could only compete.

Kaiya thought little of what would come down the road. There was only one thing she knew for certain, and that was that the future was unknowable. And yet… countless adults, countless peers spoke to her as if they knew. What sort of person can speak on such things with such certainty?

The story of Kaiya Ki of course, stands as one of tragedy. A young prodigy, struck down by a speeding truck driver, at the cusp of her high school career. That poor Kaiya, they would say… she had such a bright future ahead of her. A bright future ahead of her.

A bright future ahead of her.

Her brother often wondered if those ugly rumours are true. That Kaiya did indeed look where she was going before taking that final step.

Kaiya Ki… never received a second chance at life. The husk that was revived is not her, but a collection of dwindling memories and emotions, that would grow weaker, more faint with every revival. A husk that yearned to return to non-existence, a luxury it was always denied.

… But then again… this husk had friends who would play baseball. It would feel warm in their presence.

The future isn’t bright, and it never was. But this Kaiya… she could see the last dim lights. She wanted their flame to burn, just a little bit longer.

File: Spoiler Image (497 KB, 800x1000)

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>Present Day

She’s coming for Alice, you have to stop her. Despite all of Manabu’s heart and muster, he’s not able to stop her. But… despite being his senior, you’re likely even less prepared to do battle. You’re an uncoordinated klutz, no sense of footing or direction… and even moreso, you can’t bring yourself to do battle with a friend.

Instead, you step in-between your roommate and her target. For once, you don’t stumble. Your head is clear, as you plant your feet.

“KAIYAAAAAA!” you shut your eyes and shout out. “STOOOOOP!”

Kaiya’s fire-fist stops in its tracks, inches from your face. You slowly open your eyes to see Kaiya before you. Her usual calm, smiling demeanour is gone. For the first time… she appears to be in distress.

“Kaiya, please… just tell me what’s going on…”

“I’ve seen that fates,” Kaiya mutters. “This is the only way. The shadow of a shadow must confront meat boy, the will must be carried out… and The Dreamer will be eradicated.”

“What?!” you shout. “Kaiya, no! That’s our friend!”

Kaiya pauses. “No fate where all live… they will remain broken… but this way… if I do not stop The Dreamer here, they will all die…”

“Then we won’t fight!” you argue. “We can figure this out! We won’t go that way, you don’t have to fight us!”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBtTL_IsZ5k

“… That isn’t my decision, or yours…” Kaiya mutters, before grabbing you and pushing you aside. You watch, as a giant hand hits Kaiya, sending her flying back.

You turn, as there stands Alice… well, not Alice…

The Dreamer is unleashed, a grin on her face.

“The Will of Albion, eh?” The Dreamer smirks. “Well… that’s just not allowed.”

Kaiya picks herself up, and a smile forms on her face as well. Manabu readies his sword, but Concordia uses her energy to leap forward, tackling him to the ground. “What are you-“

“Your devotion is admirable…” Concordia admits. “But this is not our battle. We would be like ants to them.”

Alice… Kaiya…

… You don’t want them to hurt each-other.

>Dreamer: Time to free that other demon within your realm, Castor.
>Dreamer: Pin down Kaiya with wave after wave of teddy bear.
>Dreamer: Something sharp to combat Kaiya’s spear… a big pair of scissors ought to do the trick.

>>5336438
>Dreamer: Time to free that other demon within your realm, Castor.
THE SWEEP CONTINUES

>>5336438
>Dreamer: Pin down Kaiya with wave after wave of teddy bear.

>>5336438
>Dreamer: Time to free that other demon within your realm, Castor.
Even the odds

>>5336438
>>Dreamer: Time to free that other demon within your realm, Castor.
Ohfuck

Calling for
>Dreamer: Time to free that other demon within your realm, Castor.

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 21 (1d100)

>>5336518

Rolled 77 (1d100)

>>5336518

Rolled 54 (1d100)

>>5336518
Imagine how humiliating it’s going to be for Kaiya to be dabbed by Alice’s weakest Pokemon.

File: Castor.png (163 KB, 960x800)

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>77

The Dreamer holds out her arm, as a portal opens up above her. Dropping through it is a figure with a basket for helmet, wielding a flute. That demon from the tournament, Castor.

The demon instantly takes to his knees. "How long has it been...?" he mutters.

"I think you learned your lesson!" The Dreamer exclaims. "You've thought about what you did, didn't you?"

Castor remains silent for a moment, before answering. "That realm of yours... it was challenging to meditate. Constant noise, constant lights... to clear my mind was difficult. It proved for great training."

"Well, you still have an enemy ahead!" The Dreamer points to Kaiya.

Castor looks back. "If I am no longer held captive, then I have no obligation to fight your battles."

"Your battle too," The Dreamer explains. "She's helping carry out the Will of Albion."

Castor pauses, before standing.

"... Very well."

He blows into his flute, as musical notes appear in the air. They fly towards Kaiya, exploding as the your friend narrowly avoids being hit. Kaiya tries to close the distance, but Castor causes her to keep hopping back.

You can see some frustration set in on Kaiya, as she fires back with balls of fire aimed towards Castor in this fire fight. Castor calmly jumps aside, avoiding a blast himself, before keeping up his artillery."

With Kaiya on the backfoot, you notice the smile widening on Dreamer's face.

>Dreamer: While she's on the backfoot, add some melee force by summoning guardians.
>Castor: It's not enough to keep her dodging. Time for a longer note to be held.

>>5336540
>Castor: It's not enough to keep her dodging. Time for a longer note to be held.
What a fucking CHAD

>>5336540
>Castor: It's not enough to keep her dodging. Time for a longer note to be held.
Is this demon actually going to solo Kaiya!? Forget about her that would be rubbing salt on Concordia’s wounds.

>>5336540
>Castor: It's not enough to keep her dodging. Time for a longer note to be held.
DO NOT TOOT

>>5336540
>Castor: It's not enough to keep her dodging. Time for a longer note to be held.

>>5336551
Doot?

>>5336540
>>Castor: It's not enough to keep her dodging. Time for a longer note to be held
TOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOT

Calling for
>Castor: It's not enough to keep her dodging. Time for a longer note to be held.

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 41 (1d100)

>>5336563
Beans beans the magical fruit

Rolled 96 (1d100)

>>5336563

Rolled 68 (1d100)

>>5336563

>>5336566
Is Dreamer’s dimension some kind of hyperbolic time chamber? We need to put everyone there for a couple of months.

File: Castor02.png (173 KB, 960x800)

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>96

Castor holds off on the blasts, as Kaiya collects herself. She looks to Castor, as she starts her charge while Castor charges up a long note on his flute. A strand of energy emanates and lengthens from the tip of the instrument, as Kaiya edges ever closer.

Finally the massive bubble breaks off, floating up into the sky, just in time for Kaiya to launch a fireball. Castor leaps back, almost getting enveloped in the blast, but leaves an opening for The Dreamer to act. She summons a net of energy, which wraps around the created bubble, before launching it down. Kaiya looks up, as the bubble crashes and bursts atop her, creating a blast that sends waves through the area. You fly back, as does Concordia, Manabu and even Castor.

As you collect yourself, the dust is yet to settle... but Dreamer remains floating above the proceedings. She points her finger, and blasts of energy begin to rain down. "Come out, come out, wherever you aaaaare!" Dreamer sings, searching for Kaiya.

A wisp of flame flies up, followed by a full wave, which reshapes itself to become Kaiya. She thrusts with her spear, which itself envelops in flames, but Dreamer is quick to defend, conjuring up what looks like a tortoise shell. Kaiya breaks entirely through, but Dreamer conjures up another, with Kaiya bursting through five shells before her momentum slows. Dreamer then conjures up an anvil, which lands atop your friend, sending her crashing back down, and pinning her.

Kaiya returns to flames to escape, and stands in a stare down with her opponent, still blazing.

This burning form of Kaiya's... no, you've seen it twice before. And on both occasion, it was her full energy and lifeforce being expelled. But now... there is no Keiji, there is no revival.

Kaiya... she's willing to die for this.

"Please!" you cry out, to both of the fighters. To the air. To anyone who will listen. "Stop it! I... I don't want anyone to get hurt!"

"Me neither..." you hear Kaiya softly whispers, before her flames burst and spread further.

The two continue to staredown. You have to do something... you don't know what... but you have to stop the fighting. But you don't even know what's happening, why this fighting is going on... what are you even supposed to do?

>Help Kaiya.
>Help Alice.
>No... I can't help anyone.

>>5336617
>Help Kaiya.

Inb4 Hanako trips and headbutts Kaiya unconscious trying to help her

>>5336617
>Help Alice.
Maybe we roll well enough to knock out Kaiya

>>5336617
>Help Kaiya
Tough choice and it might not be the most convenient but I believe this is what the emotional Hanako would do

>>5336617
>>No... I can't help anyone.

>>5336617
>No... I can't help anyone.
Got to let them work it out themselves

>>5336617
>Help Alice

>>5336617
>>Help Kaiya.
FOLLOW YOUR HEART

File: Trivia_Alice.png (244 KB, 1100x622)

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Calling for
>Help Kaiya.

Will be concluding this act of the thread tomorrow! Thanks for playing!

File: Kaiya04.jpg (577 KB, 736x1041)

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>Help Kaiya

You move on instinct. Kaiya… she’s always been an odd one, to say the least. Even before you knew about her bizarre circumstances, she gravitated towards you. At first, it seemed only because you had been assigned a dorm. But Kaiya has always remained at your side, and… while you may not have understood her words directly, you have always known her. Somehow, you have always known.

She’s your best friend.

And you can’t bear to see her go.

You rush to stop this, stop the fighting. You don’t know how, but you need to protect your best friend. Both from The Dreamer, and herself.

But then… at the worst possible moment… you trip.

You fly up, flinging yourself forward, and landing directly into a sinkhole. As you notice the ground beginning to swallow you, you see Kaiya look your way. Her flames die down, and she cries out. “HANAKO!”

… She said your name.

Kaiya bursts towards you… and in doing so narrowly avoids a blast from The Dreamer. You suppose you can call that helping…

Kaiya’s hand grabs yours, and she slowly begins to pull you out… but behind her, The Dreamer appears.

“Kaiya, look out!” you exclaim, but there’s nothing you can do… The Dreamer’s fist thrusts forward…

… And stops, shaking, just an inch from Kaiya’s back. What?

“What are you doing?” The Dreamer asks herself… no, she’s asking Alice.

“Back in you go!” Alice exclaims. “You almost hurt my friends!”

In a flash, Alice returns to her usual self, helping pull the both of you from the sinkhole.

Concordia looks on, dumbfounded. “She just… I can’t believe it…”

Manabu raises an eyebrow. “What?”

“She just wrestled control from an Archdemon… not just any Archdemon…” Concordia mutters. “One who has authority over a god… I see, my mistress was not The Dreamer at all…”

Castor looks on, his stance still aggressive. “Are you serious? She intends to help carry out the Will of Albion!”

“I don’t know what that is and I don’t care!” Alice exclaims. “I don’t want to see my friends hurt!”

As Kaiya is pulled back, she falls to her knees, her eyes wide.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0MEjZIKAdA

Soon… tears begin to flow.

“None of the fates… saw this…” Kaiya mutters.

File: Kaiya28.png (602 KB, 1012x1033)

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You pause. “That’s good, isn’t it? Wasn’t your prophecy full of death?”

“The snake hidden in the shadow must face him and fail…” Kaiya mutters. “That was the best possible outcome. There was no outcome without death… but that was the only outcome where we wouldn’t remain… broken. But… if this remained unforeseen, then… the best possible vision may not be…”

“We…” you mutter. Kaiya was always distant, to hear her call your group a ‘we’…

Alice places her hands on her hips. “What are you, stupid?! Why don’t you have any faith in Kazuma?”

… Kazuma? Did Alice so easily decode Kaiya’s visions? These two operate on a completely different wavelength to you.

“Faith…” Kaiya whispers. “I… should have faith.”

“Fools…” Castor walks off. “This is not a matter for your kind to decide.”

As he does, you look down to Kaiya. “Hey… you can return to normal, right? Those fire parts are…”

As the fire dies down, you see.

Those parts of her body, already gone. Sacrificed in the fight.

“Kaiya…”

“The only death in that outcome…” Manabu mutters. “To keep the class whole… it was you, wasn’t it?”

“Call me the gold…” Kaiya smiles, tears running down her face. “Kintsukoroi…”

You shake your head, grabbing her. “Kaiya, stop! If we can get to Amaya, she can fix this! I promise, you don’t have to go! Please!”

As she looks ahead, Kaiya begins to speak...

“There will come soft rains and the smell of the ground,
And swallows circling with their shimmering sound.

And frogs in the pools singing at night,
And wild plum-trees in tremulous white;

Robins will wear their feathery fire
Whistling their whims on a low fence-wire;

And not one will know of the war, not one
Will care at last when it is done.

Not one would mind, neither bird nor tree
If mankind perished utterly;

And Spring herself, when she woke at dawn,
Would scarcely know that we were gone.”

“… My father would read me that,” Alice mutters, her brow furrowing in a sudden moment of clarity.

With that, Kaiya begins to fade away. “It’s time… for the rain the clear,” she smiles, looking to you. “It’s time.”

>I… thank you for everything. Goodbye… my friend.
>No, it’s not time. Stay with us, Kaiya… we’ll see the future together.

>>5337957
>>No, it’s not time. Stay with us, Kaiya… we’ll see the future together
Oh God I don't even know what I want aaaaa

>>5337957
>I… thank you for everything. Goodbye… my friend.
God damn, Castor gives 0 fucks

>>5337957
>>I… thank you for everything. Goodbye… my friend.

>>5337957
>I… thank you for everything. Goodbye… my friend

>>5337957
>>I… thank you for everything. Goodbye… my friend.
damn

Calling for
>I… thank you for everything. Goodbye… my friend.

Writing now.

File: Kaiya20.jpg (663 KB, 722x722)

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>I… thank you for everything. Goodbye… my friend.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=65dizSZh47w

"Goodbye... Hanako..." Kaiya smiles. She pauses for a moment. "I was Kaiya Ki."

"I know..." your own eyes begin to fill with tears.

"No, I really was..." she remarks. "Let them know... I lived. I truly lived."

You break out into open sobs. Kaiya's hand gently rests itself on your shoulder. For a moment, she looks ahead. Her eyes widen, as something suddenly comes to her.

"This isn't the end..." she mutters. "It's time to see my brother... but we'll see each-other again. We'll play baseball and eat ice-cream on that day... and I'll be real. So... look forward to it, okay? And... tell Meat boy... tell Chuichi... it's gonna be okay."

She's speaking to you... Kaiya Ki is finally speaking to you. No more cryptic speech, no more vagueness. This is just... Kaiya.

"I... I will!" you sob. "I promise!"

"I trust Kazuma..." Kaiya nods. "Under a shadow... the future's glare isn't so bad..."

As she smiles, her body continues to burn up, parts flaking away and disappearing into the air. Soon, the hand on your shoulder goes too. "Kaiya..." you continue to sob.

Despite it, she continues to smile.

"Just because I'm presumin', that I could be kinda human... if I only..."

With those last sung words... the last of her disappears.

She's gone.

Your best friend...

You let out a scream, as Alice, Concordia and Manabu rush to comfort you.

But once that scream is done... you can't bring yourself to utter any more. As painful as your chest is... you saw that smile.

Kaiya... she was happy. In some way, she found meaning in her life, her death, and her afterlife.

You'll play baseball and ice-cream on that day...

... Well, she's never been wrong before, has she?

Hang on, Kaiya... you'll wait for her again. No matter how long it takes. She may be gone... but her flame will continue to burn. Always.

Her heart is your own.

File: Trivia_Kaiya.png (182 KB, 963x566)

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That'll be all for tonight. Continuing with the third and final part of the thread tomorrow! Thanks for playing!

File: Amaya&Makoto07.png (472 KB, 700x941)

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>Meanwhile

“Makoto… what are you…”

Amaya finds her brother, amidst the remains of a flock of demons. Dozens upon dozens of them… as Makoto simply looks to the sky above him, unresponsive to her question.

Amaya approaches closer, reaching out a hand. “Did they ambush you? All of them alone… are you hurt? Do you need healing?”

“No…”

As Makoto turns, she realises he’s right. There isn’t a scratch on him. He’s perfectly pristine.

Amaya breaths a sigh of relief. “Good… come on, Takeshi-sensei was sent after us. We need to gather the others and head home…”

“Amaya, wait.”

Amaya turns to face her brother… as he unsheathes his blade. “Makoto…?”

“We should settle a matter that’s been bugging me…” he responds. “I let you win once… you let me win once. Isn’t it about time we had a fair duel?”

“I told you, I don’t want that…” Amaya replies. “And why now? This is hardly the time.”

“I… received an offer…” Makoto mutters. “I… I can’t explain what it was, but…”

Amaya raises an eyebrow. “You’re not making any sense, brother. Come…”

“Do you know why I let you win?” Makoto asks. “All that time ago? Because I had faith in your idea. You felt it was right to join the school, to help people, even if it meant leaving the family… and truth be told, even though I didn’t want to admit it, I agreed. I wanted to do the same… so I let you win that duel of ours.”

“… But things have changed?”

Makoto shakes his head. “I’m conflicted on this one… so I’m going to put my faith in our strengths.”

Amaya pauses. “Makoto, please…”

Despite her protestations, Amaya readies her spear, as Makoto twirls his blade.

“If I win, I take that offer…” Makoto explains. “And if you win… I come with you and the others.”

“I understand.”

“I’m not letting you win this time,” Makoto warns her. “I’m going to come at you with all of my strength.”

“I… I know.”

With a resigned breath, Amaya charges her brother… but she knows, this is just an exercise for him. A stretch.

There is no way she can take him back with her.