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“Well, this feels familiar...”

“What do you mean?” Shinji asks, as you rummage through the bag he gave you, pulling out a dark cloak. The rest of Class 3 are wearing something similar, seems your little break-out has all the makings of a stealth operation.

“It feels like just yesterday that my class was pulling this same kind of mission to keep me away from you guys,” you laugh. “I sure as shit hope it doesn't escalate. I don't want this cult trying to sneak me away from something even worse a month from now.”

You suppose Shinji doesn't really appreciate your humour, judging by the guilty look on his face. “Yes... again, we all have to apologise for that. We were-”

“Under Yamato's control,” you finish. “Yeah, it's fine. I get that.”

You throw the cloak over your shoulders, and Alice does the same. It flutters a little in the cool wind of the night.

“Just so you know,” Taka speaks up, in his usual boastful voice, “I would have gone after you even if Ol' Yam wasn't whispering in my ear.”

“So, what's the plan?” you ask, intentionally ignoring Taka.

“We're a few miles out of town,” Maro explains, carefully loading his rifle as he sits on a log. “If we can make it out of this forest without being spotted, however, we'll have a clean break back to the school.”

“Seems simple,” you reply. “From what I've seen, this cult's only got three or four followers. Should be easy enough to hide from those whack-jobs for a few miles of travel.”

“You'd be wrong,” Reiji explains, adjusting his glasses. “Those that you've met in the bunker, barring myself, were the highest ranking members of the order. This forest is filled with lesser members patrolling the area, and it won't be long until they realise the two of you are missing. They'll be looking for us.”

“That's no worry, though!” Lilo exclaims, a little too loud for what is supposed to be a stealth mission. “Now that the Class 3 cavalry are here, we can take out these crazies even if we are found!”

“Calling attention to yourself and getting found is not an option, Lilo,” Maro grunts. “We stick to the current plan as much as possible, understood?”

“Fine...” Lilo sulks.

“It's true, I would love nothing more than to rip apart some of these wretched villains,” Kamiko smiles, licking her lips. “Oh well, bloodshed will come another day. I can wait.”

“Idiots...” Maro mutters. “This is why I've placed Shinji in charge of your group. Don't disobey a single one of his orders.”

“Their group?” you ask.

“Too many of us travelling together will draw attention,” Maro explains. “Group one is comprised of myself, Taka, Nina and Reiji. Group Two is made up of Shinji, Lilo, Kamiko and Yasutake. One group will take you, and the other will escort Alice.”

“And which group am I going with?”

“That's up to you, isn't it?” Maro replies.

>I'm going with Group 1.
>I'm going with Group 2.

>>214000
>I'm going with Group 2.

>>214000
>I'm going with Group 1.
Good to have you back Book. This will be fun, with any luck, of course.

>>214000
>I'm going with Group 1.
Probably trust Taka the least of them, so lets stay with him and hopefully Alice with be better off with the less crazy group.

>I'm going with Group 1.
Rather risk ourselves than risk Alice.

>>214000
>>I'm going with Group 1.

Also, nobody gonna comment on booker getting 999 trips followed directly by 000 trips? that's some bloody luck right there

>>214009
Actually switching my vote to.

>I'm going with Group 2.
I'm kinda worried about Alice being in group 2. So I feel like us being in there will at least mean that Alice is in calmer hands. Even if Group 1 has Taka in it.

>>214000
>>I'm going with Group 2.

Calling in 5 minutes.

>>214000
>I'm going with Group 1.

Calling for
>I'm going with Group 1.
Writing now.

Reminder that Yamato would have totally been our bro by now if it wasn't for the RNG gods.

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"Good choice," Taka smirks, picking up his great-sword as he prepares to get moving.

"Then that means Alice will be coming with us," Shinji states as he approaches her. "Are you ready to go?"

Alice pauses for a moment. "Yes... just... give me a second."

Alice slowly approaches you with a smile. "Be careful with them. I've actually started to like you, and I don't want you dying!"

You laugh. "Same goes to you. We're all going to make it out of this safe, Alice. Trust me."

The two groups begin to part ways as you joing with Maro, Nina, Taka and Reiji and begin to trek through the forest. Maro points out a spot of high-ground within the forest, where you can glimpse at the people patrolling the area below, giving you a chance to form a better strategy. As you scale up the hilly surface, placing your hand on tree trunks to keep yourself steady and prevent yourself from falling back, Reiji begins to speak.

"Hey, Ryoji..." he begins, choosing his words carefully. "The order's members are pretty violent. If they see us, they aren't going to hesitate to kill the rest of us to get to you."

"Yeah, the bad guys are usually like that," you snark, as you try hard not to run out of breath hiking up the steep hill. Seeing this, Nina shakes her head and grabs your wrist, pulling you along. It's a little humiliating, but you have to admit it does make things easier.

"My point is, I'm willing to fight," Reiji explains. "I'm nowhere near as capable as the rest of these guys... but I can fight."

"Fantastic," you reply. "I kinda expected that already, but it's good to hear."

"Yes..." Reiji mutters, "Except for my parents. I'm sorry... but if we come across my mother or father... I can't bring myself to go against them like that."

>Reiji, your parents are scumbags. If you should be fighting anyone, it should be them.
>That's fine, Reiji. You don't have to fight, I'm just grateful you're helping out.
>Fine... but if you betray us, I'm kicking your ass.

>>214066
Even if we hadn't botched those rolls, the odds of that were still extremely low

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>>214066
Booker confirmed there was a possible redemption arc for him, but it would have required meeting him very early on and a whole bunch of other shit, heavily dependant on player choice as much as RNG

in short, pic related

>>214072

>That's fine, Reiji. You don't have to fight, I'm just grateful you're helping out.

>>214072
>That's fine, Reiji. You don't have to fight, I'm just grateful you're helping out.

It's not easy to do what he's doing. I can understand his hesitation.

>>214072
>>That's fine, Reiji. You don't have to fight, I'm just grateful you're helping out.
>No offense, but your parents are dicks though.

>>214072
>Reiji, your parents are scumbags. If you should be fighting anyone, it should be them.

>That's fine, Reiji. You don't have to fight, I'm just grateful you're helping out.

Yeah we'd have to be cartoonsihly dickish to tell him to murder his parents.

>>214072
>That's fine, Reiji. You don't have to fight, I'm just grateful you're helping out. But if you betray us, I'm kicking your ass.
I know it's been a couple of days, but coming to terms with literally fighting your parents is kinda rough, don't want to shit on him too much right now, not least because he can still be plenty useful answering more questions later.

>>214072
>That's fine, Reiji. You don't have to fight, I'm just grateful you're helping out.

I wonder if it's possible to pretend to be fully merged with our Archdemon and troll the cult members.

>>214090
You better max out our bluff skill then.

>>214072
>Fine... but if you betray us, I'm kicking your ass.

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>That's fine, Reiji. You don't have to fight, I'm just grateful you're helping out.

Reiji nods. "Okay, I just feel like I'm not doing enough..."

You laugh. "Reiji, you're the reason I'm getting busted out of there. You've already done enough."

"But... I'm also the reason you were in there to begin with..." Reiji mutters.

"Yeah... well, it balances out, right?"

As you reach the peak of the hill, you find yourself collapsing quickly. You're beginning to realise how much your stomach is hurting.

"I gotta say, you're real freakin' forgiving," Taka says with his back turned to you. "If I were in your shoes, Reiji would-Hey, you okay?"

Nina grabs you by the arms and drags you forward a little so that you aren't in danger of rolling down the side of the hill. "He's weakened," she explains.

"It's nothing major," you explain. "I just haven't eaten at all while I was in that bunker... and I'm really starting to feel it."

"Then eat," Maro states, sitting down, and rustling through his bag. "We're safe up here for the moment, and there's supplies provided in that rucksack you've got. We'll stop and eat now, then we can begin to chart out our plan going forward."

You're not going to argue with that. You roll over removing your bag from your shoulders as you zip open in the bag and check inside. Bread and Soup in a flask. Not bad. You begin to tuck in, as you note Maro pulling out a pair of binoculars and peering out over the forest. Good to see that there's someone who's mind is on the mission at all times. Taka pulls out his own meal and gets to digging in enthusiastically, chewing loudly with his mouth open. Nina finds a nearby tree to lean against, her face as expressionless as ever. Reiji sits cross-legged on the ground by you, letting out a relieved sigh.

Looking around, you feel a sense of unease. You realise this is coming from the fact that your safety lies in the hands of Class 3, the group that were prepared to capture and possibly kill you mere weeks ago. Sure, they were under the control of Yamato... but are they really all that trustworthy now? Taka's hardly a good person, Maro's scarily focused, and Nina is just impossible to read. You don't know how trustworthy they were before Yamato made his deal with his Archdemon, and that's not even accounting for the messed up state their minds must be in now. Perhaps you should try talking to one of them during this short break. Maybe getting a better sense of who your rescuers are would help relieve your tension.

>Let's try talking to Maro.
>Let's try talking to Taka.
>Let's try talking to Nina.
>Nah. I'll just keep to myself for now.

>>214138
>>Let's try talking to Nina.

>Let's try talking to Nina.

>>214138
>>Let's try talking to Nina.

>>214138
Man I want to talk with all three of them!

But for now...

>Let's try talking to Maro.

>>214138
>Let's try talking to Nina.

>>214138
>>Let's try talking to Maro.

>>214138
>>Let's try talking to Maro.

>>214138
>Let's try talking to Maro.

Talk to the leader first.

>>214138
>Let's try talking to Taka.
Curious to see just what the chip on his shoulder is, more so at least than the others.

>>214163
I agree. But I just wanted to see Maro more. The way that final battle against Yamato went, I don't think he was even there. I don't even recall him being in the battle.

But I am woth you. Taka fascinates me the most now. Given recent history.

Calling in 5 minutes.

Calling for
>Let's try talking to Nina
Writing now.

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Maro seems busy surveying the scene, and Taka is... well, Taka. That means your best options for actually getting to know Class 3 is Nina of all people. The expressionless robot is staring off into the distance when you approach her, your food in hand. You break off a piece of bread and hold it out in a gesture of good-will. "Want some?" you ask.

"No," Nina states bluntly, as she continues to stare off into the distance. Her emotionless face reminds you a little of Yamato's, which only manages to make it all the more unsettling.

Trying to think of something to say, you find yourself blurting out, "So what are you doing? Bird-watching?"

Nina turns her head to look at you. "I'm sorry, Ryoji."

Well, that takes you aback. You weren't expecting her to say that. "Sorry for what?" you ask.

"Yamato had us under his control," she explains. "I should have been able to fight it. I'm sorry."

You shrug. "Hey, it was pretty hard to fight. All of you guys fell under it."

Nina looks to the ground, pulling out blades of grass with her left hand. "Forgiving as always."

"As always?" you laugh. "You're talking like you know me. We haven't shared more than a few words!"

Nina continues to stare out. "You're right... I shouldn't act so familiar."

That's what she calls acting familiar? You'd hate to see what she calls acting distant.

Nina pauses, before speaking up. "When you first joined the school... you were supposed to be lead to your homeroom by a representative from Class 3."

You scratch the back of your head, thinking back. "Oh yeah... I remember that. Akihito told me to wait behind in his office until they arrived."

"You didn't wait," Nina mutters. "I arrived at his office, but you were already long gone."

"That rep was supposed to be you?" you ask.

"Yes. It was."

Nina pulls several blades of grass from the ground at once and tosses them aside, letting them blow in the wind as her hands are covered in dirt.

>You sound like you're personally offended I didn't wait around.
>Can you blame me? You were running late, and I had better things to do.
>That's a comforting thought. I'd hate to think the first student I could have met in this place was Taka or Kamiko.

>>214228
>>That's a comforting thought. I'd hate to think the first student I could have met in this place was Taka or Kamiko.
time for kuudere

>>214228
>>You sound like you're personally offended I didn't wait around.
I have the feeling that shit talking her tardiness, or her classmates, isn't going to rub her the right way

>>214228
>>You sound like you're personally offended I didn't wait around.

Wow, well that's one way this story could have been different.

I wonder if we'd have been able to figure out the charm earlier.if we knew her before hand.

>You sound like you're personally offended I didn't wait around.

>>214228
>>You sound like you're personally offended I didn't wait around.

>>214228
>That's a comforting thought. I'd hate to think the first student I could have met in this place was Taka or Kamiko.

>>214228
>You sound like you're personally offended I didn't wait around.

>>214228
>Can you blame me? You were running late, and I had better things to do.

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>You sound like you're personally offended I didn't wait around.

"I was," Nina states coldly. "I had travelled to that office with the sole intention of helping you find your way through the school. I was looking forward to it."

You raise an eyebrow. "You were looking forward to guiding some new kid around the school?" you ask. "Why?"

"I was looking forward to seeing..." she begins, before letting herself trail off.

"Seeing what?" you ask, confused.

Nina pauses, her eyes briefly darting towards you, before returning to their fixed position, staring out over the horizon. "Nothing," she answers. "It doesn't matter. It never mattered."

She picks herself off the ground, and shakes her head. "I'm sorry, Ryoji."

As she makes her way over towards Maro, taking the binoculars and glimpsing through them, you're left scratching your head. What the hell was that about? What a weirdo.

"Trying to talk to Nina, huh?" Taka laughs. "That was your first mistake. Miss Nagata's an impossible one."

"What's her deal?" you ask. "I know you guys have been through a lot of shit, but what's her story."

"I don't know," Taka replies. "None of us do."

You turn your head. "What do you mean? You're in her class, aren't you?"

"She was a transfer student," he explains. "Arrived in our second year. As far as we know, the chick's always been like that."

Huh... strange. You shrug, placing your hands into your pockets as you make your way over to Maro. Nina hands you the binoculars as you look out over the forest. As you can see, the are groups of cultists, each one about five or six men in size, patrolling the forest area. You spot three seperate groups from your position but there are likely more.

"So we just have to avoid these guys and we're home-free?" you ask. "Sounds easy."

"Harder than you'd think," Maro replies. "They're alert and on the look-out. Stealth is going to be difficult."

"Then why don't we just charge down there and bust some heads?" Taka asks. "Come on! We can take any number of these goons!"

"That's too risky. We don't know how strong the average member is," Maro explains. "We need to avoid direct combat as much as possible. An actual fight should be our very last resort."

>Maro's right. Stealth is the way to go here.
>Taka has a point. We could get the drop on them if we make a move now.
>Here's an idea... why don't we combine the two? Sneak around, take them out one by one?

OH FUCK SHES THE CHILDHOOD FRIEND CHARACTER.
>Maro's right. Stealth is the way to go here.

>>214293
>>Maro's right. Stealth is the way to go here.

>>214293
>Maro's right. Stealth is the way to go here.
Oh boy. Childhood friend and we have amnesia. This will be fun. Questions just leading to more questions. But that will have to wait.

>>214293
>>214297
Even if she isn't, she could just say she was and Ryoji wouldn't be able to tell the difference.

>>214297
>>214304
Holy fuck, I hadn't considered that

Well fuck

Anyway;
>Maro's right. Stealth is the way to go here.

>>214293
>>Maro's right. Stealth is the way to go here.

>>214293
>Maro's right. Stealth is the way to go here.

>>214307
Just imagine the situations people could pull off with this shit.
>Akio claims that Ryoji stole five bucks when both were little.
>Akemi claims he had promised to marry her.
Memory loss is a bitch to the loser, but fun for everyone else.

>>214293
>Maro's right. Stealth is the way to go here.
>>214325
Reiji sure as hell better not remind us of something we've 'forgotten' but I don't think there's many other people are going to need to know about that exact situation in all it's details. yeah I know keeping secrets from our classmates is going to end just swimmingly again

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>Maro's right. Stealth is the way to go here.

Taka crosses his arms. "Of course you'd say that. You're completely useless in a fight."

"Not completely," Maro states. He pulls a pistol from his back pocket, flicking it in the air, as it lands with his hands over the barrel, he hands it over to you grip-first. "These people are humans. Bullets hurt humans, no matter who fires them. You know how to use one of these?"

"Point and shoot. It's not rocket science," you reply, taking the pistol.

"Good. Then let's get moving," Maro mutters, as he begins to lead the group.

Of course, a gun isn't the only way you can prove useful in a fight. There's that other method... communicating with your Archdemon, maybe feeding it just a little, enough that you can gain some strength. Of course, to do that involves feeding it your own memories, and you don't know what memories it would take. First thing it did when it nestled inside your head was remove everything you knew about your own family... do you want to run the risk of it taking something just as important?

As you follow close behind, Taka begins to make conversation in a hushed tone. "You know, I feel real bad about what happened to your blonde friend. What was her name, began with an R?"

"Rei," you mutter. You had almost forgotten that Taka was the guy who put Rei into the state she was in. Sure, Rei's own actions played a big part in it, and Taka was under Yamato's control at the time, but you can't help but feel mad looking at his face, his nose still out of place from Akira going berzerk on him.

"Yeah, Rei. Damn, she was gorgeous. It's a real shame... I've never killed anyone before. I wouldn't be afraid to, but to think that I came so close to my first kill being such an innocent girl..." He trails off a little, thinking. "I tried to do something right. Thought I could drop by, leave a bunch of flowers by her bed, maybe give a brief apology to her, even if she is a vegetable right now. Her friend sent me away, though. The blue-haired one, you know..."

"Akira," you answer, as move a tree-branch out of your way, pressing forward.

"Yeah, that's it. Woof, now there's a woman. She messed me up good in that fight. Really impressed me... still she didn't want me to be anywhere near-"

"Shh, patrol ahead," Maro whispers, as the rest of you hunker down. Sure enough, about seven hooded figures are scouting around in a clearing of trees up ahead. "What's our plan of action?"

>We sneak around and keep moving. [ROLL D100]
>We hide and wait for them to move on. [ROLL D100]
>They're separated from the other groups. If we move fast, we could probably take them out without calling too much attention. [ROLL D100]

Rolled 23 (1d100)

>>214369
>>We sneak around and keep moving. [ROLL D100]
Outnumbered and we want to keep moving.

And Taka continues being a fucking shit.

Rolled 73 (1d100)

>>214369

>We sneak around and keep moving. [ROLL D100]

Rolled 86 (1d100)

>>214369
>We sneak around and keep moving. [ROLL D100]

Rolled 82 (1d100)

>>214369
>We sneak around and keep moving. [ROLL D100]

Maybe we can get a diary and just stuff everything we can possibly think of in there before feeding our memories to the Archdemon.

Rolled 14 (1d100)

>>214369
>We sneak around and keep moving. [ROLL D100]
Taka, not winning Ryoji right now is he? I on the other hand, plan to give it time. I think him actually being there and being rejected is a whole differnt Taka.

Rolled 90 (1d100)

>>214369
>We hide and wait for them to move on. [ROLL D100]
We don't know how strong they are and they are scouting ahead, which means they are probably going to leave soon. Hiding seems like the best way to avoid getting into a fight or potentially alerting everyone else of our location.

Rolled 38 (1d100)

>>214369
>>We sneak around and keep moving. [ROLL D100]
chances are, attempting to kill anything might give the archdemon some kind of edge to feed on 'us' and our memories without us letting it, y'know, evil acts n' shit. Best play on the safe side for now

>We sneak around and keep moving. [ROLL D100]

Those are some nice fucking rolls there.

Also fuck Taka.

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>We sneak around and keep moving.

You've got to stick to stealth. Actual combat should be an absolute last resort, no point rushing in to take these guys out when you don't have to. You and the others begin to move to your left, planning to make your way around the scouting party. You keep your eyes on the ground as you hunker low, careful not to step on any leaves or twigs that would make a loud noise when stepped on. Lucky for you it's summer, and the numbers of leaves lying across the forest floor is minimal.

You and the others stick to the shadows, move close to the trees to keep yourselves hidden, and make it around the clearing without alerting any attention to yourselves. Seems you're pretty good at this whole stealth thing. You and the group move forward, finding yourselves stepping out through a clearing and winding up by a lake in the forest.

"Great, where are we now?" you ask.

Maro looks around. "We're more than halfway out of here, if I remember correctly. I saw no patrols by the lake when I did my survey of the area, but that means they could be on their way here. Best not to stop for too long."

You turn around to notice Reiji breathing heavily. He's shaking and nervous as hell. "Hey... you okay, dude?" you ask.

"No..." Reiji gasps between deep breaths. "I'm scared..."

"He's scared?" Taka laughs. "What, are you going to piss your pants? Come on, you know what you were in for."

You place a hand on Reiji's shoulder. "It's not much further now, man. You just have to stick with me a little longer. Can you do that?"

Reiji nods frantically as he tries to come to his sense. "Yeah... I can."

Maro pulls out a walkie-talkie from his bag, as he tweaks the signals on it's antennae. "Shinji, do you copy? What is your position?" he whispers into the gear, trying to get an update on Group 2's progress.

"Where was I?" Taka asks. "Oh yeah! Akira wouldn't let me anywhere near her friend. Can't really blame her, to be honest. Just kind of wish there was something I could do... you have any ideas?"

>Have you tried apologising to Akira? That would probably help.
>If you really wanted to help, you'd think of something.
>What you need to do is shut up and live with what you've done.

>>214473
>What you need to do is shut up and live with what you've done.

>>214473
>Have you tried apologising to Akira? That would probably help.

>>214473
>Have you tried apologizing to Akira? That MIGHT help, maybe.
>If that doesn't work you'll just have to live with it.

>>214473
>Have you tried apologising to Akira? That would probably help.

>>214473
>Have you tried apologizing to Akira? That MIGHT help, maybe.
>If that doesn't work you'll just have to live with it.

>>214473
>You can't change the past nor redeem your actions with just words, show your remorse and correct your wrong doings by your own actions.

>>214473
>>Have you tried apologising to Akira? That would probably help

>>214473
>>Have you tried apologizing to Akira? That MIGHT help, maybe.
>>If that doesn't work you'll just have to live with it

>>214473
>Have you tried apologising to Akira? That would probably help.
>That said, you're going to have to mean it. I mean, really mean it. And even then...
>If that doesn't work you'll just have to live with it

I really want to be there when he tries. I really do. He's likely going to need some help, reluctant as it might be coming from us.

>>214473
>Have you tried apologizing to Akira? That MIGHT help, maybe.
>If that doesn't work you'll just have to live with it.

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>Have you tried apologizing to Akira? That MIGHT help, maybe.
>If that doesn't work you'll just have to live with it.

"Apologize to the the friend?" Taka asks. "I didn't hit her, did I?"

You shake your head. "No, but you took away the one person she cares most about away from her. She hasn't left Rei's side since."

"She hasn't?" Taka pauses. "Damn... that's dedication. She really liked the blondie, didn't she?"

"Yeah, she did."

"Shit..." Taka thinks for a moments. "Maybe that's where I need to start. Making it up to Akira. That's some good advice, kid!"

"Yeah... I get that a lot," you reply.

Nina exhales sharply from her nose upon hearing this. You imagine that's her way of laughing.

Maro places the communicator in his pocket before picking up his bag. "Group 2 are going strong, they're close to the exit," he explains, before turning to you. "Alice wanted to pass on a message. She said not to feed it, whatever that means."

Nina glances at you, before starting to move. "We're wasting time here," she states. "Let's go."

"In what direction?" Taka asks, raising an eyebrow.

"In the direction of the exit," Nina replies bluntly.

"Well... duh. But you're moving around the edge of the lake!" he exclaims. "Look at this place! We're out in the open, easier to spot. I was against sneakin' around, but I know it's better to go back into the brush of the forest. More places to hide."

"Yes... but it will take longer for us to reach our destination if we make such a roundabout route," Maro adds. "Moving around the lake is much faster."

"Let's let Ryoji decide," Reiji speaks up.

"Why me?" you ask, raising an eyebrow.

"Because you always give the orders," Reiji explains. "It's worked out for us so far. You're got a hidden gift as a tactician, I think."

"It's true... his ideas did kick our ass a few weeks ago," Taka laughs. "Fine then. We'll let the kid decide."

>The sooner we get out of here, the better. We go around the lake. [ROLL D100]
>We can't risk being spotted. It may take longer, but let's go back through the forest. [ROLL D100]

Rolled 70 (1d100)

>>214572
>>We can't risk being spotted. It may take longer, but let's go back through the forest. [ROLL D100]
Safety first when escaping crazy cults

Rolled 4 (1d100)

>>214572
>We can't risk being spotted. It may take longer, but let's go back through the forest. [ROLL D100]
Play it safe

Rolled 68 (1d100)

>>214572
>We can't risk being spotted. It may take longer, but let's go back through the forest. [ROLL D100]
Sneaking sneaking sneaking. Try to not let the Archdemon eat.

Rolled 91 (1d100)

>>214572
>>We can't risk being spotted. It may take longer, but let's go back through the forest. [ROLL D100]

>>214572
>>We can't risk being spotted. It may take longer, but let's go back through the forest. [ROLL D100

Rolled 45 (1d100)

>>214572
>We can't risk being spotted. It may take longer, but let's go back through the forest.
We're a lot less likely to bump into a scouting party in the forest than be seen walking around the lake.

>>214572
>>We can't risk being spotted. It may take longer, but let's go back through the forest. [ROLL D100]
dice+1d100

>>214572
>We can't risk being spotted. It may take longer, but let's go back through the forest.

Rolled 98 (1d100)

>>214629
My bad, this is the roll.

File: The Forest04.jpg (107 KB, 850x637)

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>We can't risk being spotted. It may take longer, but let's go back through the forest.

"Heh, looks like I can have the bright idea of now and then, right?" Taka smirks.

"Don't get a big head," Maro mutters. "Let's just keep moving."

The five of you slink back into the forest, making sure to be concealed by the shadows. You listen out for any nearby scouting parties as you carry forward. Considering how sneaky and shadowy this order has been for so long, you're amazed by how you've been able to give them the slip so far.

As Maro leads the group, you walk closely behind, with Nina directly behind you. As you move, she whispers, "What are you going to do when you get back?"

You're slightly surprised at her actually attempting to make conversation. Not the best time to do it, but whatever. "I don't know. I've been out for a few days, so I'm sure there's some stuff I need to catch up on. First thing though, I imagine I'll get lectured by Saki for daring to abandon the class or something like that."

"I see."

"Why do you ask, anyway?" you wonder. "Trying to learn more about me?"

"I already know all there is to know," Nina states.

"What do you mean?" you ask.

Nina pauses, before answering. "You're one of those people. You can be read like a book."

Taka smirks. "Sounds like Nina's trying to hit on you."

Nina tilts her head back and stares as Taka. "Uhh... I retract my statement," he mutters, slightly scared.

You look back and see Reiji trailing behind the rest of the group, his hand clutching his sword tight as he trembles slightly.

"Something wrong?" you ask.

"My mother is up ahead..." he whispers. "I can feel it."

"Don't worry. Like I said, you don't have to fight if you don't-"

"But I do want to," Reiji replies. "I'm willing to fight... I think."

>It's not going to come to that anyway. We're going to avoid a fight. [ROLL D100]
>Then let's do it. We've got your back. [ROLL D100]

Rolled 6 (1d100)

>>214670
>>It's not going to come to that anyway. We're going to avoid a fight. [ROLL D100]
This is a sneaking mission, Snake

Rolled 88 (1d100)

>>214670
>>Then let's do it. We've got your back. [ROLL D100]

Rolled 87 (1d100)

>>214670
>It's not going to come to that anyway. We're going to avoid a fight. [ROLL D100]
Must keep trying to avoid it.

>>214670
>>It's not going to come to that anyway. We're going to avoid a fight. [ROLL D100

>It's not going to come to that anyway. We're going to avoid a fight. [ROLL D100]

I don't want to risk them having super magic or something.

>>214696
>>214697
Y'all might want to consider rolling. Just saying...

Rolled 22 (1d100)

>>214696
>>214702
For whatever reason my dice don't seem to want to roll on my phone

>>214702
All right, but just because you're so sexy.

Rolled 62 (1d100)

>>214670
>>It's not going to come to that anyway. We're going to avoid a fight. [ROLL D100]
'Sides, wouldn't do much good if he got wrecked and Class 3 had to clean up his mess for him.

Rolled 16 (1d100)

>>214670
>It's not going to come to that anyway. We're going to avoid a fight.

Rolled 15 (1d100)

>>214670
>It's not going to come to that anyway. We're going to avoid a fight. [ROLL D100]

Need to pop to the shops, so the next update will take about 10-15 minutes longer. Apologies.

>>214752
>>214752
Buy a terry's chocolate orange, those are great

>>214765
Motherfucker that's some good ass taste you have there.

>>214765
>Buy a terry's chocolate orange, those are great
Seconded

>>214772
You know it, son

But the REAL taste is for people who have the exquisite preference of the exploding-candy variant

Those things are to fucking die for god damn I want some now I'm pretty sure there's a 24-hour shop in town like a sainsburys or asda or some shit, I think I might get some too

>>214670
>It's not going to come to that anyway. We're going to avoid a fight. [ROLL D100]

File: Oharu.jpg (124 KB, 704x528)

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>It's not going to come to that anyway. We're going to avoid a fight.

Reiji nods nervously, and takes a deep breath as he moves forward with the rest of the group. You press forward, until you begin to hear the footsteps of a nearby scouting party, Maro stops the group in their tracks, before instructing you hide in some nearby foliage. You hunker down, keeping your head low, as you intend to wait it out for the scouting party to pass by. It's then that you hear a familiar woman's voice... it appears Reiji's intuition was right.

"Come out from where you're hiding, Ryoji. We know you're here, and so is Alice." Oharu calls out, her blade at the ready. "Reiji... I know you're with them. I know you're the one who let them roam free. I don't know what's possessed you as of late, but if this is your own little act of rebellion, I suggest you put a stop to it now. If you step out now with the two hosts, your punishment will be light."

You turn your head, looking over at Reiji. He is gripping his sword tight and shaking his head.

"No answer?" Oharu calls out. "Typical. Exactly what I expected of you. You're weak, Reiji. You've always been a disappointing child. It kills me that you're all that I was able to birth."

Reiji clutches his sword tighter, his hand shaking a little, as his face turns red with anger. She's trying to bait him out.

You place a hand on Reiji's shoulder and shake your head. Don't do it... don't give in...

Reiji closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. Calming himself, his nervous shaking stops.

"Not coming out?" Oharu yells. "Very well, you leave me no choice. Burn this area."

Before you know it, the whacko's are taking to the forest with open flames, igniting everything around them. Peering out beyond your hiding spot, you catch a glimpse of Oharu's smug satisfied face. Nina grabs you by the wrist. "This way. We need to go."

As black smoke begins to fill the air, you run as fast as you can away from the spreading flames. You press on, finally making your way to a safe distance from the forest fire.

"I can't believe she would do that..." Reiji mutters.

"They're insane and desperate," Maro states. "They'll do whatever it takes to stop us from leaving... but we're almost out of here. Just a little further."

"Hey kid, what did she mean when she called you and the weird girl hosts? Is that just some Darkworlder thing?"

"It doesn't matter," Nina interjects. "No point asking questions instead of moving on."

"I'm just asking! I'm curious!" Taka replies.

>Explain your situation in full.
>I don't know. They're crazy.

>>214833
>I'm telling you to avoid the same thing that happened last time. Please don't make me regret it.
>Explain your situation in full.

>>214833
>"I will explain after we escape from being burned alive. Let's just say for now there's some sort of parasite inside me that they want to be free."

>>214833
>Explain your situation in full.

>>214833
>Explain your situation in full.

>I'LL TELL YOU WHEN WE'RE NOT IN MORTAL DANGER.

>>214833
>>Explain your situation in full.
These guys have had enough of darkworlders fucking with them, and maybe knowing Yamato was himself being 'controlled' could put their mind at ease somewhat

>>214833
I will explain everything when we aren't busy running away

>>214851
Something like this. Short and sweet and to the point.

>>214851
Backing this

>>214833
This >>214851
>"I will explain after we escape from being burned alive. Let's just say for now there's some sort of parasite inside me that they want to be free."

Calling in 5 minutes.

>>214851
Wouldn't it be better to be less vague, I mean we can probably summarise it more accurately in about as many words, and just that right kind of royji-branded bluntness

"There's a darkworlder god in my head trying to eat my memories and make like Yamato ended up, now PLEASE lets get the hell out of dodge okay?!"

Calling for
>I will explain after we escape from being burned alive. Let's just say for now there's some sort of parasite inside me that they want to be free.
Writing now.

File: The Forest01.jpg (297 KB, 850x1202)

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"That doesn't sound good," Taka mutters.

"It's not," you reply. "Now, let's just keep moving."

You keep moving ahead, as the fire behind you begin to become little more than a light in the distance. They'll still be after you, no doubt about it, but you're at least safe from being burned to a crisp. Maro stops and moves to the side, pulling out his walkie-talkie. You note that you're by the other end of the lake, meaning you're at the forest's exit. Good news.

"What are you stopping for?" you ask.

"This is the meeting point," Maro explains. "We were supposed to meet up with Group 2 here."

"But they were ahead of us... and we took the long way," you reply, confused. "Why aren't they here?"

"That's what I want to find out," Maro mutters.

Damn, if one of those scouting groups have caught group 2...

"Shinji, come in. What's your position?" Maro asks.

There's a moment of silence before Shinji picks up on the other end. "We're currently in town at the moment. A scouting group almost got the drop on us, so we had to move on from the rendezvous point. Luckily, we managed to give them the slip. No casualties."

You breath a sigh of relief. That's good to know.

"Great, we'll meet up with the rest of you at the school soon," Maro states, before placing the device back into his pocket.

You feel a tap on your arm, and you are greeted with a pack of cigarettes in the hand of Nina. "Take them," she states. "I can tell you need one."

"Thanks..." you mutter, as you pull out a stick. You place it in your mouth before realising you haven't got a light. Luckily, Nina's on the ball, as she lights it up for you. You take a nice, soothing drag, which helps relieve some of the tension in your back. "I didn't know you smoked, Nina."

"I don't," she replies sternly, before moving on.

"The plan's going well so far," Maro mutters. "Only a minor slip-up... and a forest fire. I wasn't sure if I was going to do a good job as Class leader to begin with. So far, so good..."

>Don't worry, Yamato's a real easy act to follow. There's no way you can be worse than that guy.
>You've done a great job so far, Maro. I'm really impressed.
>Don't give yourself too much credit. I did make a lot of the key decisions here.

>>214978
>You've done a great job so far, Maro. I'm really impressed.

>>214978
>>You've done a great job so far, Maro. I'm really impressed.
Let's boost his confidence.

>>214978
>>You've done a great job so far, Maro. I'm really impressed

>You've done a great job so far, Maro. I'm really impressed.
>But the role of a leader is to always try to be better.

>>214978
>You've done a great job so far, Maro. I'm really impressed.

>>214978
>You've done a great job so far, Maro. I'm really impressed.

>>214978
>>You've done a great job so far, Maro.
Let's not lay the flattery on too thick now, y'know

File: The Forest06.jpg (262 KB, 850x531)

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>You've done a great job so far, Maro. I'm really impressed.

Maro slings his rifle over his shoulder and shakes his head. "Thanks for the glowing review... but I don't need it. You being here, everyone still alive is all I need to know I'm doing a fine job."

You shrug. Can't really argue with that. You move ahead with the rest of the group, until you finally reach the exit to the forest. You step out from under the shade of the trees into a wide open area, with a road leading into town on it. You've made it, you're homeward bound. You note that the night is coming to an end and the sun is dawning over the horizon. Pretty well-timed escape.

You begin to follow the road, moving ahead with a relieved grin on your face. It all went so much better than expected. You managed to not get caught by any of the wandering patrols, didn't get caught in that forest fire, Reiji managed to keep his cool even with his mother berating him like that... everyone made it out okay.

Of course it was all too easy. There had to be something standing in your way... and what do you know, there was.

In the middle of the road, standing with his blade ready, was Matsuyo... the Samurai-looking guy from the order. The one that taught you to talk to your Archdemon. Looks like he's been waiting a while for someone to pass by, and enact come kind of crossroad killing.

"You've come enough," Matsuyo growls in his usual low voice. "But your road ends here, Ryoji."

"Out of the way, pops!" Taka exlaims. "Can't you see you're outnumbered, old man?"

Matsuyo readies his sword and charges. Taka blocks with his own blade, but Matsuyo is craftier than that. He draws a smaller dagger from his robes with his free hand, and jams it into Taka's knee, causing him to fall. Matsuyo kicks Taka back, before slicing bullets fired upon him by Maro. Damn, he's fast. Nina charges forward and tackles him, but he manages to turn it into a Judo style hip throw as he tosses her down and puts a blade to her throat. Reiji charges forward but is easily kicked back.

Maro reloads his rifle and aims it towards Matsuyo. The samurai pulls out another throwing dagger, and flings it into the barrel of the gun, causing it to explode in Maro's face as he pulls the trigger. Nina throws a punch at the distracted Samurai, landing on his face and taking him back. As she grabs her own sword, the two clash blades.

In all the chaos, you find time to pull the pistol Maro gave you out of your pocket and aim it at Matsuyo. His back is turned, and he isn't paying attention to you, likely not considering you a threat, so you may be able to get a shot in to stop him. But he's moving fast, and if you miss, it could be disastrous. Of course there's always that other option...

"Feed... me... Ryoji..."

No, it's too risky. But if you fed it just enough, you'd be strong enough to take Matsuyo out, without a doubt. Do you really want to risk that, though?

>Fire the gun. [ROLL D100]
>Feed The Stranger. [ROLL D100]

>>215069
>>Fire the gun. [ROLL D100]

Rolled 30 (1d100)

>>215069
>>215071
Fuck, dunno why it did that
>>Fire the gun. [ROLL D100]

Rolled 39 (1d100)

>>Fire the gun. [ROLL D100]
FUCK YOU DEMON.

Rolled 31 (1d100)

>>215069
>>Fire the gun. [ROLL D100]

>>215069
>Fire the gun. [ROLL D100]

Rolled 21 (1d100)

>>215088
Fuck

>>215075
>>215085
>>215081
Well... someone's injured.

Rolled 45 (1d100)

>>215069
>Fire the gun. [ROLL D100]
Even if bad rolls fuck us on firing the gun, that's better than feeding that damn parasite.

Rolled 15 (1d100)

>>215069
>>Fire the gun. [ROLL D100]

>>215099
>>215102
Pretty sure that means we're going to be having to demon to get out of this now though, regretably.

Either that or someone is dead. It's really a case of Booker's choice.

>>215110
That's nail on the head. I think he's gonna kill someone though, he's given us plenty of chances to feed the beast and we've ignored it, now bad things are going to happen.

>>215110
I mean, if we're lucky the consequence is just a poor miss, maybe we shoot ourself in the foot or something, we'd recover but it'd hurt like shit

Rolled 97 (1d100)

>>215069
>>Fire the gun. [ROLL D100]

>>215155
*sigh* It's not fair...it's just not fair...

>>215155
WHY DID YOU WAIT SO LONG.

>>215163
I...was eating.

>>215161
>*Sigh*
Back to your containment board

File: Matsuyo.jpg (1.86 MB, 3174x4560)

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>Fire the gun.

You take a deep breath, try to focus on your target as best you can, and exhale just as you pull the trigger. The bullet whizzes through the air, coming right at Matsuyo, but only manages to graze past his ear. A slight amount of blood from the graze trickles down from his ear, as Matsuyo kicks Nina back, before swinging around, turning his attention to you. He marches towards you, his sword pointed before him. You fire another shot, which he slashes with rabid speed. "That was very unwise of you, Ryoji."

He continues to march towards you, as Nina regains her balance, ready to charge forward. "Don't you dare touch him!" she exclaims, her voice cracking in a surprise burst of emotion.

She bursts towards Matsuyo, her sword ready... but Matsuyo is quick to react. He swings around his blade parrying hers. Just as quickly, her grabs the staggered Nina by the wrist, pulling her in close as he rams his blade through her heart.

No... no, this can't be happening. It was all going fine, and then... Dammit!

Nina's eyes widen, gazing into your own as blood spurts form her mouth. In a rage, you first fire a bullet into the back of the unsuspecting Matsuyo's leg, causing him to take knee... before you unload into him. Three shots to the torso, and a final one to the head. The samurai falls to the floor in a heap of blood, as you toss the emptied pistol to your side. You've never killed another person before... and you're worried by how naturally this one came to you.

Nina falls back, sword still sticking from her chest. You rush to her side, pulling it out. She gasps in intense pain as you place your hand to the back of her head.

"No..." Maro mutters, picking himself up off the ground. The burns on his face from his rifle exploding pale in comparison to the horrified look on his face once he sees Nina.

"That bastard!" Taka screams, staggering towards Matsuyo's body and ramming his Greatsowrd into the torso, just for good measure.

"Nina..." you mutter, clutching her head in your hands. "Stay with me, okay? We're almost there. We made it out. Not much longer now... you just have to last for a few more-"

"Ryoji..." Nina gasps, interrupting you. "Do... you remember me?"

Her eyes are wide and filled with tears. The rest of her face remains emotionless, but her eyes betray her. "Of course I'll remember you," you reply.

"No... do you remember me?"

You have no idea what she's talking about. Is this just her mind wandering in her last moments? Have you met your before you came to this school, and you just can't remember it? Whatever it is, you have to give her an answer. She deserves that much.

>I... I don't. I'm sorry.
>Of course I do.

>>215166
Now you must fast for 20 years.

>>215170
>Of course I do.
Damn it all.

>>215170
>>I... I don't. I'm sorry.

>>215170
>Of course I do.

I was gone for like 50 minutes tops, and I come back to this.....

>>215170
>Tell me what to remember

I dunno man, I'd feel bad lying to her, but I wanna have a heartfelt moment and this sounds just about cheesy enough to pull some heartstrings

>>215170
>Of course I do.
At least make her feel... better? In her last moment.

>How about you tell me when we get out of here.

All you fuckers giving up, WE ARE THE HERO AND WE WILL SAVE EVERYONE.

>>215069
i don't

>>215183
This.

>>215183
I'll switch to back this. Maybe we'll do something crazy reckless.

>>215183
Fuck it you can have my vote

>>215183
Screw it, I'll change to this too

>>215170
FUCK
the dice played nice with us at first why couldn't it last?
I vote for feeding that thing in an attempt to see if we can heal her, sounds extremely dumb, but maybe the archdemon will cut a deal?

>>215170
Find a way to heal her with our power, feed it if necessary

>>215170
>>How about you tell me when we get out of here.
ITS NOT DONE YET BOOKER! FEED THE BEAST, USE ITS POWER ON HER

>>215170
>A 39 is enough to get somebody killed
And I bet that wannabe-samurai cunt is gonna either be faking it or get brought back somehow.

Fuck it, I'm too salty to vote right now. I'm tapping out.

>>215215
>>215213
>>215212
That is a stupid idea; she'd probably be revived as a hostile Darkworlder that way.

>>215183
Back this. I am so sorry for rolling too late

File: 1459456550000.jpg (64 KB, 556x436)

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>>215215
DO NOT

>>215220
Alice was a hostile darkworlder and we solved that issue.

>>215183
Voting

>>215230
As in "Yamato" hostile

>>215183
Time to asspull that we can channel our healing power to others but only if we feed the demon.

>>215232
Oh, right.

>>215220
Shes dying because we weren't willing to sacrifice anything though

>>215170
>Of course I do.

File: Spoiler Image (320 KB, 1280x1900)

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>>215232
So she is going to try to rape the primary Waifu and get jiggy with other Archdemons for breeding purposes? Cause That doesn't sound too bad

>>215241
If we did their rescue would be meaningless you mongoloid

>>215254
Thats just your opinion man

>>215256
>Listen to the beast
>End up being consumed
>Literally did what the organization wanted to, shitting on everyone
Of course, just my opinion

>>215256
He's right, though, if we were just going to give in to the demon asshole in our head then we might as well have stayed in a cell where we'd be rewarded for it and not have had to struggle to get out

File: Nina07.png (410 KB, 752x1034)

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>How about you tell me when we get out of here.

You aren't going to give up that easy. You aren't going to have come this far to have someone fall at this stage. This is not the time to quit. She can make it out of this, you know it. She just has to go a little longer. Just half a mile, then you'll be at the school, where she can get the medical attention she needs.

Hearing this, Nina reaches her arm up and places her hand on your cheek. For the first time, she smiles. "Ryoji... you always were a hero..." she mutters, before slowly closing her eyes.

Her hand drops down, her blood wiped onto your cheek, as you begin to breath heavily, looking down on her in panic. "Nina? Nina, come on... you can make it, Nina. Nina? Nina!"

You hold her tight, as Maro approaches, placing a hand on your shoulder. "She's gone, Ryoji..." he says solemnly, removing his hat and hunkering down. "I'm sorry."

"I never understood her..." Taka mutters, "She was always so distant... quiet. But damn, she was a good fighter. A brave girl... and a good person." He shakes his head and rubs his eyes. "She was a friend."

"We were so close..." you mutter, still holding on to Nina's body. "We were all going to make it..."

"You can't save everyone all of the time," Reiji states, approaching you. "Sometimes fate just isn't on our side."

"She died honourably," Maro adds. "It's how she would have wanted to go. We'll make sure she receives a proper burial."

You let go of Nina's body. Maro helps you to your feet as Taka, the strongest of the group, lift her up, carrying her. Her face... it looks so peaceful.

"She acted like she knew you," Maro states. "Were the two of you friends as children? Go to the same grade school?"

"I don't know..." you mumble, down-heartened. "I wish I did, but I don't remember her."

"In any case... she remembered you, right?" Maro replies. "Come on, we're almost there."

>I just wish I could have found out more about her...
>I can't believe this... I've tried so hard to keep everyone safe... I've failed.
>The order are going to pay for this. We're going to burn them to the ground.

>>215270
>I can't believe this... I've tried so hard to keep everyone safe... I've failed.
>The order are going to pay for this. We're going to burn them to the ground.

>>215270
>>I can't believe this... I've tried so hard to keep everyone safe... I've failed.

>>215270
>I just wish I could have found out more about her...
>I can't believe this... I've tried so hard to keep everyone safe... I've failed.

We tried everyone. Maybe we can at least do a side quest to learn more about her?

>I can't believe this... I've tried so hard to keep everyone safe... I've failed.
>The order are going to pay for this. We're going to burn them to the ground.

If nothing else we made her happy without lying.

>>215270
>I just wish I could have found out more about her...
Fuck.
Anyway, who want's to bet she'll come back as a Darkworlder with a spotty memory?

>>215270
>>I can't believe this... I've tried so hard to keep everyone safe... I've failed.

>>215270
>The order are going to pay for this. We're going to burn them to the ground.

Time for edge.

Doesn't our blood have healing properties, why don't we just cut our arm and put some drops of our blood on her wound. Or is she already rip.

>>215270
>>I just wish I could have found out more about her...
>>I can't believe this... I've tried so hard to keep everyone safe... I've failed.
>>The order are going to pay for this. We're going to burn them to the ground.
All three? All three. Ramblingryoji.

Also, turns out Nina was a white-haired waifu.

where Gay Evey when you need him?

>>215287
No. Our healing abilities came as a result of a contract with the Archdemon. Nowhere does it imply that it works for other people.

>>215270
>>I can't believe this... I've tried so hard to keep everyone safe... I've failed.
She looks way cuter in casual clothes than that silly battle outfit.

>>215287
With the official words from Maro as coroner, I think it's probably too late. I mean, we can try, but transfusion normally doesn't really work that way.

Those whispers are going to get a lot louder from now on.

>literally the weakest person in the school
>get kidnapped twice
>friends constantly get hurt trying to protect him
>one friend gets knocked into a coma fighting on his behalf
>another friend DIES protecting him

Fuck, if I were Ryoji I'd be desperate for power at this point.

>>215358
I don't think these players will ever vote for it

>>215358
But would it be worth forgetting the friends we're protecting.

>>215364
As long as they're alive and able to live happily after surviving the Darkworld, I'm fine with losing ALL my memories.

>>215364
It really depends man. If we constantly fed the Archdemon, then I'd understand your concern. But if we used it sparingly and I mean SPARINGLY we probably wouldn't end up as bad as Alice did.

>>215358
And this is where the conundrum comes to. Do we wish for power that will eventually make us lose ourselves and forget everyone? Or do we keep our mind and watch our friends fight in our behalf?

And the biggest question of all, if we do sacrifice our body for power, which of our friends will have to take us down?

>>215358
I'm willing to entertain the notion of trying to experiment and try not to get overtaken by the Archdemon.

I think Ryoji is at the point where he might try and experiment. Or at least talk to it.

What he really needs now though, is a friend, a smoke, and a chance to cry it out.

I also think that this is basically the moment when Class 3 starts to endear themselves to us.

Right, I'm back. Still salty that Nina got killed off due to a single mediocre roll after a thread full of good ones, though.

>>215365
And then the Archdemon takes over and murders all those friends while wearing your face.

I wish Nina didn't have to die due to our shit rolls.

>>215392
Alice and Yamato didn't go on a murdering spree right away when they received powers from their Archdemon.

And we don't even know what the Archdemons want unless you're willing to believe the cult. If the Archdemons just wanted to kill humans, they can do it without taking over human bodies.

I want all of you people wanting to feed the demon, to feed the EVIL and INJUSTICE within us, one thing:

What would Ken think of us if he knew?

Don't do wrong by the Bromen Rider

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>I can't believe this... I've tried so hard to keep everyone safe... I've failed.

"You can't blame yourself," Maro replies. "I was the leader of this rescue mission. I'm head of the class. I feel just as much guilt for what happened. You aren't doing yourself any favours by taking all of that responsibility on your shoulders. Nina died a hero... it's not your fault."

You look back at Nina's body, as Taka solemnly carries her in his arms. You shake your head as you wipe her blood from your face and stare at it in your hand. It's hard not to feel the guilt, and to wonder... what if? If you had fed the demon, would this have happened? Sure, you could have lost some memories, but it could have been something inconsequential. Was knowing at what age you first rode a bike as important as Nina's life? Of course not. Matsuyo deserved his fate, you're less fazed about taking his life... but as far as you're concerned, you're responsible for two deaths tonight.

The group marches in silence back to the Academy, as you step through the gates. Home, Sweet Home. If only this return wasn't marred by tragedy.

You wander up the hill towards the main school courtyard. It's early morning, but you see that some of your classmates were aware of the rescue operation, and were camping out in the courtyard, waiting with bated breath for your return. Alice's group is already there, safe and sound.

Saki catches a glimpse of you in the distance. She smiles wide, and rushes towards you. You find yourself picking up the pace yourself, as the two of you meet in a wide embrace. "I'm so glad you're safe..." Saki mutters as she squeezes you tight. "Don't ever scare me like that again!"

You smile. It's good to be home. "I wouldn't count on it, Sak."

Saki notices Nina in Taka's arms. "I she...?" she asks, with a tone of concern.

"Yes," Maro replies.

Saki frowns, then gives a respectful bow. "I'm sorry for your loss."

"Thank you, but I'd rather you were appreciative of her sacrifice," Maro replies.

"Of course," Saki bows again.

"RYOJIIIIIIIII!" you hear Akemi scream, as she runs towards you, tackling you to the ground. "I missed you so muuuuuuuuuch! I was worried you might have... might have... I can't even say it!" she yells, hugging you tight, as you try to pick yourself up, wrapping you arms around her and hugging back.

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Soon, you find a hand in your face, as Ken is offering to help you up. "Good to see you partner," he smiles.

You rise to your feet and embrace Ken with a hug. You then realise there's a bit of a line.

"Welcome back aboard! The rest of the crew has missed you!" Nanami exclaims, hugging you tight. "I missed you! How could I call myself captain without my first mate!"

"I knew you'd be back," Kosuke jokes before he and Rini pull you in close.

"So did I," Sayeka smiles.

You notice Hiro had first approached you to welcome you back, but soon turned his attention towards Nina. He runs his hands over her, hoping he can heal her wounds. "I'm sorry... it's too late for her. She's already passed..." her states.

"Yeah... thought so," Maro sighs. "Come on Taka. Time to fill the rest of the Class in on the bad news."

They take off with Nina in tow, as Akio extends a hand in offer of a handshake. "Gotta admit, when you got snatched up, I thought you were a goner."

"I guess I ruined one of your betting pools, didn't I?" you laugh, accepting the handshake.

"I didn't start betting on this!" Akio protests. "Out of respect! Well... Hikaru told me not to, but there's still respect there!"

A happy return home... if only it could be under better circumstances.

"So... what happened while you were there?" Saki asks. "Alice hasn't given the most reliable explanation, as you can imagine. What did they do? Did they hurt you?"

>I'll explain soon. Just let me get re-adjusted first.
>They're a bunch of lunatics. Wanted me to tap into a demon god to unlock true power or some bullshit.
>I hate to say it... the Darkworld is coming back, guys. And soon.

>>215407
Kamen Rider is all about taking powers with evil origins and using it to fight for justice.

Early Kamen Riders were literally created by an evil organization, they just escaped the brainwashing process. They're the same as the villains they fight on the biological level.

Even the current Kamen Riders use the same powers as their enemies. Wizard formed a contract with his inner demon/dragon, Gaim gave up his humanity to better able to fight off enemies threatening his world.

In a way, we're closer to a Kamen Rider than Ken is.

>>215421
>>>I'll explain soon. Just let me get re-adjusted first.
>>I hate to say it... the Darkworld is coming back, guys. And soon.

>They're a bunch of lunatics. Wanted me to tap into a demon god to unlock true power or some bullshit.
>I hate to say it... the Darkworld is coming back, guys. And soon.

>>215421
>I hate to say it... the Darkworld is coming back, guys. And soon.

>>215407
Would Ken like us more if we let all our friends die protecting us because we are too afraid of risk ourselves?

>>215421
>>I'll explain soon. Just let me get re-adjusted first.

>>215421
>>I'll explain soon. Just let me get re-adjusted first.

>>215421
>They're a bunch of lunatics. Wanted me to tap into a demon god to unlock true power or some bullshit.
>I hate to say it... the Darkworld is coming back, guys. And soon.
>The fake World of Alice's was blocking it off, But their leader made her clear the way once again. The Dick.

>>215421
>>I'll explain soon. Just let me get re-adjusted first.
"I just need some time alone.

>>215421
>I hate to say it... the Darkworld is coming back, guys. And soon
>I'll explain soon. Just let me get re-adjusted first.

So, time to play the game where we figure out who follows us when we go off to brood?

>>215407
>>215423
>>215429
I fully expect the next episode to heavily combat this problem and deal with the aftermath of tonight. We can always consult our friends before we consult the beast.

Calling in 5 minutes.

Calling for
>I'll explain soon. Just let me get re-adjusted first.
Writing now.

>>215492
And this is when Alice shows up to talk to us. Or maybe someone out of left field

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"Oh..." Saki mutters hesitantly. "Are you sure?"

You slowly nod. "I've been through a lot. I just need a little time to myself... to get back in the swing of things."

Saki places a hand on your shoulder. "Okay... but if you need to talk about anything, we're here for you. We're glad you're back, Ryoji. We all care about you."

"I know," you nod as you slowly wander inside the school building. You sit down in the hallway, your back leaned up against a wall. You were planning to head back to your dorm room, but you found this was the furthest you could go before giving up and bringing yourself down, reflecting on all that has happened.

You killed a man today. A horrible man, yes... but you took a life. You pulled a trigger and killed a man out of pure vengeance. Rage. Even worse, you watched a good person die... a person you clearly meant a lot to, and yet you couldn't remember who she was, how she knew you, even as she lay dying in her arms. A death you know you could have prevented... this was rough. There's so much darkness looming, the potential for more death skyrocketing... you don't know if you can get used to this. You don't know if you can keep going with this... and you don't think you want to.

"Hey..." a sweet little voice calls out. Alice apparently didn't get the memo that you wanted to be by yourself. She sits herself down next to you. "The pretty white-haired girl died..."

"I know..." you sigh.

"She didn't smile much, did she?" Alice mutters. "Except on the inside."

"What do you mean?" you ask.

Alice smiles. "Whenever she looked at you, she was always so... happy. She always gave off a happy vibe when you were around. You didn't notice?"

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"I think you're the only one who would notice that."

"Oh well," Alice smiles. "I think she was just happy to help you no matter what happened. You two must have been close, because she really loved you!"

"We weren't," you answer. "At least, I don't remember..."

You feel the packet of cigarettes she gave you in your front pocket. "Alice... you told me not to feed the Archdemon... but if I had fed it, Nina might still be alive right now. Why?"

Alice pauses, thinking. "Because... I fed mine. Now look at me. My brain... it's in pieces. Vague, hazy memories of a life that once was are all I can remember..." she mutters. "I'm not stupid. I've noticed... it's why I don't belong. I didn't want you to not belong either."

"But if I fed it, I could have saved her!" you exclaim.

"And then you'd forget another person," Alice replies. "Then another. And another, and another, and another, and another, until poof! There's nobody left for you to want to save. Then what?"

She has a point. Nina was trying to save you from that fate, feeding the demon would be spitting in her face. Her mission would have been a failure, and you'd be giving in to what the order wanted all along. But what if something similar happens down the line. Would you sacrifice your memories to save someone like Saki? Even if they were you memories of Saki that got eaten up? You think you would. Even if you couldn't remember them any more afterwards, you would do anything to make sure your friends live...

You pull out one of Nina's cigarettes and light it up. A tribute to her.

You've found yourself in a moral dilemma with this Archdemon... but whatever happens, whether you feed it your memories or not, you know one thing is for certain. You're going to start keeping a journal. You have to keep hold of who you are. For Nina's sake, the sake of your friends, and for yourself.

END OF EPISODE 19

Thanks for Playing! Let me know what you think!

Now that the episode's done, what do people think of this crazy theory over here:
>>204145

>>215570
Yo! we getting that journal action going!

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>Ending Theme
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rOU4YiuaxAM

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

>Twitter
https://twitter.com/bookerman32

New thread tomorrow!

>Player Question
We learned a little bit more about some more Class 3 members. Who was your favourite? Which member of Class 3 would you like to learn more about?

>Bonus Player Question
Did someone say first important non-villainous character death? Give your thoughts on the late Nina, cut down in the prime of her life.

>Fun Fact
What Nina said earlier in the episode is true. She was the class 3 member who was going to give you a brief tour, having a little interaction that would tip you off a little to the school's weirdness, before probably fucking off until Class 3 were plot relevant again. I wonder if the waifu wars would have taken a very different turn had Nina been first girl, and that original interaction with Saki never happened.

>>215580
It's already been discussed and confirmed that Ryoji's lack of ability to fight the darkworlders comes from inwardly resisting and fighting against the archdemon and the darkworld itself, resulting in the fact that while he gets his wish of invincibility, he didn't receive any of the normal bonuses/perks or excessive archdemon strength

tl;dr he's a stubborn prick that's why he couldn't fight shit

>>215587
>PQ
Nina

>BPQ
She was apparently a childhood friend of Ryoji's. RIP

Man, fuck dice.

>>215587
Nina's death was interesting because it was so clearly preventable, either through sacrifice or good rolls. There was a story there that we can't see know and killing a character with so much baggage without resolution takes balls.

>>215587
I don't think it was first girl syndrome that REALLY triggered the Saki thing, so much as it was the pure conflict between them, that kind of raw antagonism is a breeding ground for tsundere shipping.

As for the PQ;
I'm gonna say Taka, I like that guy maybe that's just because I don't like Rei but honestly now he isn't murdercrazy thanks to yamato's mindfuckness, he seems fairly chill

and for the BPQ;
Interesting character prospects, and I think her death definitely had some extra level of weight thanks to the existential worry it brought on due to the fact she died asking us if we remembered her, and we honest to god didn't.

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And in case anyone doesn't follow the QM Twitter and/or missed it, the resident fluff-fic writerfriend finished that Pirate-Rider fic. Check it out here.

http://pastebin.com/0hDDBEu6

>>215570
Thanks for running.
You Sir are an absolute Bastard... And I love it!
>>215587
Man Childhood friend Vs Tsundere That is the most Cliche romance comedy trope....
Now I really want to know more about Nina and what would have gone down if we had we stayed and waited for our tour

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>>215613
Booker, my man, hold those horses right there!

I've Touched up the grammar and wording a bit, not all of it because I'm a lazy fuck and too busy procrastinating revision for my exam on monday, but have the improved version as it currently stands!

http://pastebin.com/7JjMqAhX

>>215605
>There was a story there that we can't see know and killing a character with so much baggage without resolution takes balls.

Nina was actually one of my favourite characters. You do not know how much I visibly cringed when you guys rolled so poorly on the "Nina will die if you roll poorly" choice.

>>215621
Okay, yeah, read this version instead. From the man himself!

>>215621
Absolutely adorable

>>215587
>Player Question + Bonus
Honestly, I think we learned the most about Nina, which in turn is frustrating, because of circumstances. I do wish there was a way to save her. But I suppose aside from out and out creating a prompt write in to use our powers, we couldn't do much without the rolls in our favour.

I hope that we can make a concentrated effort to see who Nina was.

>PQ pt.2
Taka's development continues to be what I am most excited for. And Maro still remains a mystery to me.

I hope that our next episode is literally the next day. I think we need all our friends behind us right now. Sure Alice's words mean a lot to him. But I don't think he is fully accepting that what he did is right. Can we get a conga line of people slapping his shit in tomorrow? Might also give us motivation to deal with the other current class 2 sad sack.

>>215625
I could tell, you put a lot of emphasis on the whole, she knows you and you dont know her, thing, and I massively respect you for killing her anyway.

>>215587
>Player Question
Maro, is my favorite one, he could be the closest thing to a senpai in this quest He is so gonna die
>Bonus Player Question
Would have totally supported her if she had been first girl we met in quest+forgotten childhood friend.

Now the Golden Perfect True Ending is lost.At the very least I'll pray the RNG gods to help us achieve at the very least "True end" with everyone in class 2 alive. Yes I totally expect that Alice will die sooner or later.

>>215587
I'm fairly salty that you killed off Nina for seemingly no reason other than cheap drama because we got below-average roll.

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>>215630
Thank you very much!

Sorry for the errors and such in the original version and probably still present in the current version, about 50% of it was written in one sitting on an all-nighter [the latter 50% of it], and the whole thing was written after midnight across various days.

I'll keep touching it up and improving it here and there, there'll probably be a version I'd actually consider fully presentable within a week.

Until then, I've touched up and tweaked the classic Saki fluff alternate ending to episode 6, if anybody wants a re-read or hasn't seen it before, here you go!

>http://pastebin.com/AnDbbYSq

>>215591
With 60 years of this shit going on, you'd think something similar would have happened to someone else. But Ryoji was somehow the first.

There's still some unanswered questions, like:

1. Why did Ryoji of all people get an Archdemon? Yamato was the leader of his class and a good fighter, a prime target for possession so that the Archdemon could infiltrate the school. And it might have worked if he didn't get greedy for Alice. Alice was stuck in the Darkworld, and was therefore an easy target. Ryoji though, he's new, he doesn't have any powers, so why did an Archdemon possess him? He'd hardly be the only person to wish for survival in the Darkworld.

2. Ryoji didn't just resist the Archdemon, he didn't even know about it. How is he able to resist it so well? He's stubborn, yes. But he would hardly be the only stubborn person to show up within 60 years.

Man I feel like utter shit. This is what I get for going for a meal.

>>215645
Well, I'm unsure about the first but thats a plot point I'm sure Booker has planned to touch on

As for the latter, well, the thing quite literally eats memories right? Its entirely possible that, in resisting it, Ryoji fed it the memories of itself almost instantly, which might have weakened the thing's grip on our mind somehow from the get-go

As for how he's able to resist and be so strong-willed beside that; anime protag man, just roll with it, that's part of the fun

>>215631
I was actually thinking of how a write in would have changed things. Seriously, shooting a guy when he's pretty damn fast and our friends are fighting him sounded like a terrible idea. I couldn't think of a write in though so I just left it at that since the other choice was also a bad idea.

>>215660
We could've charged at him and unloaded the gun point blank, but low rolls would have the chance of him getting a grip on us.

just here to say i've been lurking and enjoying from work anytime i see an update.
Good stuff, feeds a guilty pleasure of mine.
Keep it up-

>>215639
You guys rolled a 39 on the more difficult of the two options. DC on firing the gun was 70. Rolling 30 or more below DC results in character death. That has been my rule regarding character deaths. When you guys rolled that low on the option that Nina was in danger for, I honestly considered fudging the roll, leaving her just injured instead, but I decided against it. I had already given enough leeway through the Quest.

If I wanted to kill off a character for cheap drama, I would have had Reiji sacrifice himself or something. I wouldn't have killed off Nina, the character I had the most future plans for out of all of them.

Anyways, for anyone interested in the future plans for fluffwriting, the line up is looking something like this right now:

Akemi/Isamu light fluff, potentially just friendship fluff but it's my guilty pleasure ship too much for me not to throw at least a LITTLE romantic hinting in there

Chihiro/Alice sisterly bonding With some degenerate kissing thrown in because fuck it, Booker told me to

beyond that I'm empty for ideas, so feel free to start flinging some suggestions for pairings and situations for fluff to be written for my way!

>>215673
What was the dc on feed the archdemon, 50?

>>215673
So what if we failed the "Feed the Demon" roll?

>>215684
Actually even lower than that. 40.

Of course, it comes with it's own set of consequences, and a lower roll would have determined how important a memory is lost in using it.

>>215695
Kinda figured levels of failure would have went that way.

Boy losing all memories of saki woulda stirred up more emotion than a character death.
Im a sucker for characters having to deal with loss so this is one of my favorite threads so far.

Rolled 68 (1d100)

>>215695
I guess someone should have tried to roll a 100 and feed the demon for the best possible outcome.

>>215673
Oh, well that's a relief. You didn't do it for cheap drama, but all it takes is one failed roll for us to get anybody killed off, regardless of whether they should be able to handle themself.

Fantastic.

Rolled 89 (1d100)

>>215708
>hundred
>We eat the Demon instead

>>215713
That's one thing I dislike about the rolls in this quest.

We did well on EVERY other roll, but flunk the one important one and someone dies.

I know the previous rolls prevented us from getting caught, but with this end result I can't help but feel that those previous rolls were for nothing.

>>215713
Thats kinda how its always been? And should be anyways.
The thread generally hasnt been bad about taking smarter/safer choices with obvious lower dc's consider how brooker does things, but he did good.
The risk of memory loss was enough to spook people into going with the obviously bigger gamble of the two choices.

>>215724
That wasn't the only important roll, anon. Far from it. Had you flunked every roll in this thread, it would have resulted in TPK and Ryoji being re-imprisoned.

>>215695
As the one who suggested the journal, I was thinking that we should save feeding the archdemon until we could write down things. That way if we forget anything critical we could at least read about it and perhaps remember it again. Unfortunately we lost something important anyway.

That being said Kudos to you for carrying through with the character death. It makes me regret lurking most of the time.

>>215673
Well, while I am sure most of the thread, myself included, would have had no real issue if you fudged it. I do commend you for not buckling to your principals.

With that said, seeing as you had the most plans for her. I am very curious how you will impliment them now. If you will even try to.

I mean, it really sucks that it feels like we fail at the most critical of moments. Rei and Nina being the obvious examples.

But I think right now its a case of just us complaining about the failures we see, not the failures we avoid. I mean, if it get really bad, maybe open it up to best of 5 more regularily. But thats about it.

>>215725
I'll admit you're right, but that's not going to stop me from being salty about an interesting character being introduced and killed off in the same thread because of shitty luck.

>>215673
By the way, was it not possible to feed our memories to the demon in order to gain powers to save Nina?

Forming a contract with a devil to save someone/bring someone back to life is a pretty common plot.

This would have result in DRAMA from memory loss and Nina gets to live so you can use those plans for her.

Feels like a missed opportunity.

>>215732
Well, if we flunked every roll. Then of course. But we did damn well on those previous ones. 2 80+ rolls and 1 70 roll and we still had someone die in the end.

And I guess I don't like the idea of having people die due to RNG. I'd be all in favor of people dying as a result of poor decision making, but here we could theoretically make the best decision we could with the information we have on hand and still have someone die because there were a bunch of horrible rolls and no one got past a 20.

>>215713
Yes? That's always been the point of rolls. You roll particularly badly, something bad happens.

And I've never made you roll for a character's life in a situation that they can handle themselves. Nina certainly couldn't handle herself against the guy who took down the rest of the group in a matter of seconds, if that's what you're implying.

>>215751
>I am very curious how you will impliment them now. If you will even try to.
I have some ideas for future events, but most of my plans for Nina obviously can't be carried out.

>But I think right now its a case of just us complaining about the failures we see, not the failures we avoid.
It really is. I've put nearly every major character's life in danger at some point, but this is the one time your rolls haven't managed to save them.

>I mean, if it get really bad, maybe open it up to best of 5 more regularily.
I feel like best of 5 is being too generous with the rolls. I allowed it a couple times in the early goings, but as you can see this is the first roll resulting in death in almost 20 threads, so I don't think the amount of leeway I give with rolls currently to be too harsh or punishing.

>>215757
>By the way, was it not possible to feed our memories to the demon in order to gain powers to save Nina?
Once I saw the write-in suggesting that, I considered possibly allowing it if it had gotten more support, but then I realised that it would be total bullshit. The demon doesn't have the ability to heal others. The wish it granted was to keep Ryoji and Ryoji alone alive. Retconning things so that it could save other people simply because I didn't want to kill off a character would have been horrendous QM'ing on my part.

>>215757
>And I guess I don't like the idea of having people die due to RNG. I'd be all in favor of people dying as a result of poor decision making
I appreciate that complaint, and it's definitely something I'll look into in improving. Though I do try to make it clear in writing that one decision is riskier than another when making rolls, it could be better. For instance, had the vote gone to feeding the demon, and you guys still rolled a 39 at best, Nina would have lived.

>>215797
Regarding the last remark, you do fine at making it painfully clear which choice is the more difficult one to overcome. Dont let the post-thread salt obscure that. Like you said, its been 20 some threads and this is the first real casualty, that could have been avoided by choice considering the roll.
A lot more people should have died by now, but the salt here is overlooking the fact that multiple choices from previous threads are the reason sub-par rolls didint result in straight up character death.

Life is rng. I didnt get a reroll when my gf has to go get a lumbar puncture today or go blind.

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>>215797
>The demon doesn't have the ability to heal others. The wish it granted was to keep Ryoji and Ryoji alone alive.

>can't heal others
>no attacking power
>no elemental magic
>no buffs/debuffs
>no other utility skills
>regeneration only

Stranger confirmed for shit-tier demon, not even worth fusing with others. When do we get another one?

>Though I do try to make it clear in writing that one decision is riskier than another when making rolls, it could be better

It's usually pretty clear, though in this case the choices were:
>Shoot a gun while having no training at a group of combatants while they're fighting at high speed

or

>make contact with a Demon and feed it your memories in an attempt to gain power

I guess we should have come up with a write-in.

>>215830
>Life is rng
Most people's lives don't make a good story that's enjoyable to read.