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“Rise and shine, sleepyhead! It's time for school!”

Your pleasant sleep is interrupted first by the sound of curtains being drawn, an intense light shining on your face, followed up by the blankets being jerked and pulled from under your arm. You let out a groan and turn on your side, facing the wall, before you feel a pair of hands on your arm, shaking you awake. Your eyes shoot open as you turn around, being met with the over-eager smiling face of Saki. “A little birdy told me you were returning to your classes today!”

“Do I really have to?” you yawn. “I mean... you know I'm going to start skipping classes at some point today anyway... so how about I just don't come in at all?”

Saki pouts as she places her hands on her hips. “Come on, Ryoji! You promised! Just this once, and I'll give you a pass to skip every other day!”

“Will you really?” you sigh.

“Not at all, skipping classes is seriously irresponsible!” Saki exclaims, before letting out a sigh. “But... I want you to just make a special effort today. For me... please?”

One look into those big blue eyes and you cave. “Okay... for you, Sak. I'll try.”

Saki smiles and claps her hands together as you sit up on the edge of the bed. “Oh, thank you! That's my big jellybean!”

You pause, staring at Saki. “I... what?”

“Jellybean!” Saki smiles. “That's my new nickname for you!”

“Okay...” you mutter. “Explain.”

“Well, it's because you're tall like a beanpole... you wear green a lot which is my favourite flavour of jellybean... and you've got a gooey centre!”

You calmly sit up from the bed. “Saki... I refuse this nickname.”

“What?” Saki gasps. “You can't refuse! It's not like I had a choice in you calling me Sak!”

“Yeah, but I really hate this one.”

“Why? I think it's cute!” Saki protests.

“Because it's embarass-” you begin, but you catch yourself a little too late, as Saki develops a smirk on her face.

“Oh?” she laughs, crossing her arms. “Could it be I've finally found something to tease you with? I've found a way to embarrass the constant embarrasser?”

“That's not-”

“You should call me DJ Kobashi, because I just turned the tables!” she laughs.

You squint your eyes at Saki and shake your head. “God, you drive me so crazy...”

Saki smiles, reaching up on her tip-toes to plant a quick kiss on your lips. “You drive me crazy too... jellybean.”

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“Nothing better to wake up to than the sounds of a lovey-dovey couple,” Ken yawns, stirring from his blankets and hopping from the top bunk.

“Don't judge us,” you remark. “Besides, you've got a girlfriend yourself now, don't you?”

Ken shakes his head. “Isn't it a little early to call Nanami my girlfriend? We're just going on a few dates and seeing what happens. We haven't even done anything romantic yet.”

“I'm pretty sure if I asked Nanami she'd say that you're her boyfriend,” you remark.

“Really?” Ken ask.

“I don't know,” Saki replies. “But it seems like something you should talk to her about.”

Ken sighs. “My point still stands. A casual date doesn't make us boyfriend and girlfriend yet. We're hardly exclusive.”

“You say that like either of you are interested in dating anyone else,” you laugh.

“I could be!” Ken protests.

“Like who?”

“Uhh... Nariko?”

You raise an eyebrow. “Nariko? Nanami's roommate? Are you serious?”

“No...” Ken sighs. “I was just throwing a name out there.”

“Now, you two hurry up and get ready!” Saki exclaims. “Or else we'll be late!”

Saki steps out of the room and waits while you and Ken prepare yourselves for the day ahead. The two of you enter the hallway, and as you hold Saki's hand, the three of you make your way to the main school building.

As you're about to enter the main foyer of the school, Saki breaks her hand away from yours. “What's this about?” you ask.

“It's against the rules for students to partake in public displays of affection on school grounds during school hours!” Saki cheerfully explains. “As such, we must refrain from our love until an appropriate time!”

You chuckle. “Wow, you're serious about keeping up with this?”

“Of course!” Saki smiles.

You smirk. “Trust me, Sak. You won't make it to the end of the day. You can't resist me.”

“Have faith, jellybean,” Saki smiles. “I have an iron will!”

You make your way to homeroom, and see a bespectacled, stubble-ridden face you've managed to avoid since coming back. The symbol of cruel authority in your life... your homeroom teacher, Akihito Naito. He hates you.

As he catches a glimpse of you walking through the hallway, you see him struggling to maintain a professional face. “Ryoji Shida... welcome back.”

>Pissed off you aren't rid of me, huh?
>'Sup teach? How's it hanging?
>Offer a handshake
>Go in for the hug

>>600956
>Pissed off you aren't rid of me, huh?
>Offer a handshake

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>>600956
>Offer a handshake
>Pissed off you aren't rid of me, huh?
tiem 2 git gud @ skool

>>600956
>>'Sup teach? How's it hanging?
A casual greeting.

>>600956
>Offer a handshake
Good to see Akihito back. Lets see him try to keep up appearances.

>'Sup teach? How's it hanging?
>Offer a handshake

>>600956
>>Offer a handshake
>>Pissed off you aren't rid of me, huh?

>>600956
>Pissed off you aren't rid of me, huh?
>Offer a handshake

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>Offer a handshake
>Pissed off you aren't rid of me, huh?

Akihito smiles as he readily accepts the handshake. "No, of course not," he replies, as he see a slight smirk develop on his face. "Without you, which student am I supposed to make an example out of?"

"Back to business, huh?" you ask.

"Of course," Akihito replies. "You better keep your nose clean. It's a real relief to see you back amongst us."

"Keep my nose clean?" you ask. "No promises."

You begin to step into the classroom, before Akihito addresses you once more. "Oh, and I feel I should congratulate you."

"What for?"

"I suppose I'm late to this, but as I understand it, you and Miss Kobashi are very much in love."

You sigh, scratching the back of your head. Pretty embarrassing having a teacher talk about that stuff. "Yeah."

"That makes me happy to hear," Akihito replies. "I still remember having to break up a fight between the two of you on your first day."

"It wasn't a fight," you mutter.

"Ah yes," Akihito nods. "Calling it a fight implies that it wasn't one-sided."

You sigh. You walked right into that one.

"I can see Miss Kobashi has already had a tremendous effect on you," Akihito mentions.

"Huh?"

"For one, you're the first to arrive to class," he explains. "I never thought I'd see the day, Ryoji."

"I'm just full of surprises, aren't I teach?" you chuckle.

Akhito adjust his glasses. "Yes, it seems Saki is a amazingly positive influence in your life... don't screw it up, Ryoji."

"I won't, teach."

Akihito nods. "Now, I'm sure you're eager to see the new seating arrangement."

"The new what now?" you ask.

"It's a new term, so it's a new seating arrangement," Akihito explains. "New seats have been allocated, based on your performances from last term, drawing from your combat prowess, academic achievements, and your attendance."

"So, I'm still at the back?" you ask.

"There's the surprise!" Saki exclaims, chiming in. "Yes, your attendance and combat prowess are still garbage, but you actually did amazing in the term exams! Fifth in the class!"

"Wow, really?" you ask. Turns out that studying with Hoshi really paid off. "Where did you place?"

"Sixth," Saki replies.

"Wait, I did better than you?" you laugh. "Oh Sak, you know you're never going to live this down, right?"

Saki pouts. "Well... I'm still the head of class overall! And besides, I can't be teased when I'm too happy for you! You moved from the back row to the fourth row, and if you keep improving like that you could end up sitting in front with me!"

You shake your head. "I don't think that's ever going to happen."

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You are directed to your new chair, situated at the end of the fourth row. Ken's directly in front of you, and as the rest of the class pool in, you see that Isamu is seated directly behind. The back row is empty, as your two delinquent compatriots have decided not to show up today, reminding everyone of why they're seated in the back. It's going to suck not sitting between Kosuke and Rini this term, but you're sure you'll make the best of it.

You look directly to your left, noting that the one seat next to you is empty. You account for everyone in the class and realise that the seat is supposed to belong to either the absent Raiden or the absent Akio... he's been training all summer, and is yet to return. The rumour mill is that he's never coming back... even word that he's dead. That would crush his girlfriend Hikaru... and his best friend Seishiro for that matter. Hell... it would crush you. When you first met him, Akio was as arrogant and ego-driven as one could be, but now... well, he's still arrogant and ego-driven, but he proved to have a good heart overall.

While you may have promised Saki you would attend the class, you made no such promise that you wouldn't sleep through it, and that's exactly what you do. Before you know it, the bell is ringing for first break, and people are clearing out of the room. Saki mentioned last night that she would be meeting with Principal Wei and Class 3 regarding your little demon encounter the other day, leaving you to decide on where to spend your first break, or rather, who to spend it with. You make note of all the clusters leaving the room together, and realise you should join one. But damn, who are you going to hang out with?

>Sayeka, Hoshi, Chihiro and Nariko
>Hikaru
>Satomi
>Reiji
>Hiro and Sora
>Rei, Isamu and Akemi
>Akira
>Nanami and Ken
>Seishiro

>>601064
>Rei, Isamu and Akemi
The fun good time chronic illness club YAY

>>601064
>Seishiro
Lets check up on the guy.

Though the trio and the quartet also have my interest.

>>601064
>Akira
Might as well start the 1 on 1 therapy sessions now.

>>601064
>Seishiro
Lets see how the poor guy is holding up.

>>601064
>Seishiro

>>601064
>Seishiro

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>Seishiro

You're probably going to regret this. Seishiro is known around the class for being... well, mostly insufferable. He's loud, he's obnoxious, he constantly tries to hit on girls despite being horrendously bad at it, and unlike his buddy Akio has never shown the good heart to make up for all of that. Still... you can't help but feel sorry for the guy considering his best... and only friend in the whole world has been gone for months on end, and if he ever gets back, Akio'll likely be more focused on rekindling things with Hikaru than chilling out with Seishiro. Despite his obnoxious attitude, you're sure the poor guy could use a little company.

"Hey Seishiro, wait up!" you call out as you race after him. "Let's hang out."

Seishiro smirks as you approach. "Oh man, what's this? You want to hang out with me all of a sudden? I always knew you were vying for a spot among my friends! About damn time you admitted it!"

You sigh. "Actually, I was just hoping to catch up."

"Suuure," Seishiro rolls his eyes. "So, how's your girl?"

"My girl?"

"You know, Saki. The Sakster. The Sakmeister."

"All of those names are terrible," you remark, making note to use them on Saki later.

"Just saying you and her have been sharing a bed for a few night now. What wild stuff is she into? I bet she's secretly a real freak. What colour are her-"

"Let's stop talking about this," you demand. "Let's talk about you. How have you been?"

"How have I been?" Seishiro asks. "I've been great! I've been swarmed by women all summer! The ladies can't get enough of me!"

"Oh really?" you ask. "Like who?"

"Uhh... Nariko?"

"Nariko? Really?"

"N-no..." Seishiro sighs. "Look, the ladies have been all over me... in theory, you dig?"

"I don't, because that makes no sense."

"I'm just saying I've been on the prowl, going from girl to girl, unlike a certain someone who thinks he can just settle for some dumb library nerd..."

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"Akio," you reply. "Sounds like you're missing him."

"How could I not miss my buddy?" Seishiro exclaims. "Aki and I are thick as thieves! We're like brothers! We're closer than most married couples! But that doesn't mean I'm not happy for him. He went out there, and he's working to become the strongest he is, following his dream! I'm not going to get all pissy about that, unlike a certain dumb library nerd who doesn't know who really matters to Aki..."

You sigh. "Look, I don't know if this bitterness is because you have a crush on Hikaru or Akio-"

"Ugh, why would I have a crush on that nerd?! Don't be gross!"

"Uh-huh... well, I think you should stop the bitterness. Look, Akio's not back yet, and who know's when he will be, so are you just going to wait for him and not try to make any new friends?"

"What?" Seishiro gasps. "Bro, it's me and Aki all the way!"

"Yeah, but Akio has someone else in his life too," you explain. "Shouldn't you?"

"I'm not the type of guy to seriously have a girlfriend," Seishio mutters.

"I don't mean romantic stuff, I just mean having a friend," you explain.

"Oh yeah?" Seishiro asks. "And who exactly is that supposed to be? Tell me Ryoji, who the hell should I try to make friends with in this class?"

>[OFFER A SUGGESTION]

>>601164
>Hikaru if you can get over the bitterness
>If you can't then Rei, you all have the same goal of becoming the strongest right.

>>601164
>Hiro
I would have suggested Ken but since PirateRider is back Hiro's probably the friendliest guy about.

>>601164
>Hiro, Sora, Sayeka
The first two, while not directly Sei's type, are usually compatible with anyone, and could probably be friends with Sei if he made the effort. Sayeka could just use more friends, or at the very least, company.

>>601164
>Satomi
Both of them are obsessed with Akio anyways.

>>601164
>Satomi

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>Hiro

"What?!" Seishiro yells. "Why the hell would I want to hang out with the wimpiest kid in the whole damn school?"

"He's not a tough fighter," you admit, "but Hiro's the nicest, friendliest kid in the class. You're bound to get along well with him."

"No way!" Seishiro fires back. "You expect me to go around picking up hot chicks with... Hiro? That kid's so chaste he can't tell if a girl likes him even if she makes it painfully obvious!"

"Oh come on, he's not that bad," you remark.

"You didn't see how much the cat girl was slobbering over him all summer," Seishiro remarks. "That kid's dense as hell not to pick that stuff up... and stupid, too! I'd kill for a night with a chick as hot as Nariko... or Rini... hell, even pirategirl's off the table, and she's got some major gazongas on her!"

"She's not exactly off the table," you mutter. "Her and Ken aren't officially a couple."

"Really?" Seishiro remarks. "Then maybe during lunch I should try to work my charms on her..."

"Or, you could make an effort to have a new friend in the form of, I don't know... Hiro? Just... try, okay?" you ask. "Akio would have liked you to try."

Seishiro pouts. "Oh, all right. I'll save my seduction of the captain for later. I'll try to hang out with the dweeb."

Seishiro walks off at a quickened pace, as you soon hear a voice from behind. "Ryoji."

You spin around to see Shinji, the older brother of Hikaru from Class 3. "Hey Shinji, what do you want?"

Shinji pauses. "I'm met with a moral quandary, and I don't want to bother Maro with it. As I understand, you're pretty good when it comes to these kinds of situations. So... I seek your consultation."

"On what?"

Shinji sighs, as he pulls out a folded up piece of paper. "I received this letter yesterday, delivered direct to my dorm... though it seems whoever delivered it meant for it to be received by the other Shirai of Dark Gate."

"Okay, so it's a letter for your sister," you remark. "Give it back to her. Simple."

"It seems simple, but it's not..." Shinji mutters. "You see... the letter is from Akio."

"What?!" you exclaim. "Let me see."

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Shinji hands you the letter and you unfold it, reading the message inside.

Hikaru,
I'm writing to you with an explanation. An explanation for why I haven't returned to the academy yet. Why I haven't returned to you yet. I can only hope this letter reaches you before you go mad from missing me. And I'm afraid this isn't the explanation you would like to hear. You see... I am not returning. I'm sorry, but I've found my place here, travelling in the mountains with my uncle. I'm getting stronger by the day, and soon I will be the strongest fighter on the planet. I don't wish to give this life up... I have fallen in love with it. Much more than I ever loved you, I'm afraid.

I founds someone. A young village girl by the name Saeko. Her father owns a farm. The day I met her... it was love at first sight. I pursued her immediately, and she fell deeply in love with me also. We're set to be wed in the coming months. I... am so very sorry, Hikaru. Please know that you'll always have a special place in my heart, but I want you to forget about me. Move on, live your own life. You deserve it.
Deepest condolences, Akio

"So you can see my problem," Shinji sighs as you finish reading the letter. "I always knew that Akio was bad for her... but now I'm left with a difficult decision. Do I be the bearer of bad news and bring this message to her? My sister already resents me enough. Or do I keep this letter from Hikaru, and let her live in blissful ignorance, and keep her spirits up? I don't know what to do."

>You have to give it to her. Hikaru deserves the truth.
>Keep it from her. Knowing this will crush her.
>Don't worry, I'll give Hikaru the letter on your behalf.
>Don't act just yet. Not until you're sure this letter is genuine.

>>601288
>Don't act just yet. Not until you're sure this letter is genuine.
Shinji, you bastard.

>>601288
>This isn't from Akio, Akio doesn't right anything like this Shinji.
>Seriously What the fuck is wrong with you.

>>601288
>This isn't from Akio, Akio doesn't right anything like this Shinji.

>>601288
>Don't act just yet. Not until you're sure this letter is genuine.

This doesn't sound like Akio at all. Both in his "actions" and in the way he wrote this. Shinji if this is you trying to put your sister at ease you're an idiot, and if this is a prank or fake by someone else I'LL be pissed.

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>>601288
>Don't act just yet. Not until you're sure this letter is genuine.

>I founds someone
Honestly can't tell if this is a typo or just Naoaki being retarded.

>>601288
>This isn't from Akio, Akio doesn't right anything like this Shinji.

>>601288
>>Don't act just yet. Not until you're sure this letter is genuine.
Farmer-chan best girl

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>Don't act just yet. Not until you're sure this letter is genuine.

"What do you mean?" Shinji asks.

"Dude, I know you like to think the absolute worst of the guy dating your little sister... but none of this seems right. I know Akio. He wouldn't do something like this, and to be honest I'm not even sure if he knows how to write, let alone write something like this. It seems off."

Shinji crosses his arms. "So what are you trying to say? That this is a forgery? Sent by someone else to defame Akio?"

You shrug. "I don't know, but I don't think Akio wrote it. So don't go waving it in Hikaru's face when you're not even sure if it's for real or not."

Shinji looks at the letter, then nods. "I see. I'll look over some of Akio's old notes, see if they match up with the handwriting in this letter. I should be completely certain that the news is true before breaking it to Hikaru."

"Exactly, don't stress her out and crush her spirits on what could be a lie," you reply. "She's worried enough about Akio already."

"She is?" Shinji asks.

"Yeah," you reply. "You should talk to your sister more. She's crazy about that guy."

Shinji gives a low contemplative hum as the bell rings, signalling the end of break. Science class is up next, hopefully Tekina doesn't start any fires.

>After Class
Tekina only started two fires, which is pretty good. Of course, one of those fires happened to catch on Satomi's sleeve, and during the panic that ensued, Isamu somehow managed to fall out the window before being rescued by Rei, who pulled him to safety. All in all, a very uneventful class.

But hey, at least now it's time for lunch, and this one you can spend with Saki. As the two of you step out into the hallway, you reach to take her hand, but she quickly pulls away. "Nope! It's still school hours!"

"You still haven't cracked yet?" you ask. "Just wait, when we get to the cafeteria, you won't be able to resist me."

"Oh yes, nothing more erotic than watching you wolf down your meal," Saki rolls her eyes.

"Yeah, especially when I spill some over my shirt," you teasingly smirk. "And when I raise my shirt to lift it, you catch a good look at my abs..."

Saki blushes. "Ryoji, stop! You aren't going to break me!"

"You can't keep it up, Sak."

"Yes I can, jellybean."

"Damn, I hate that nickname," you sigh.

The two of you arrive in the cafeteria, as you both grab a nice meal of fish and rice. You turn around, and note everyone in the cafeteria. While they didn't show up to class, your favourite pair of Rini and Kosuke certainly didn't miss a chance to grab a bite to eat, as they sit together. You pause, wondering which table you should sit at with Saki.

>Table 1 (Sayeka, Chihiro, Nariko, Hiro)
>Table 2 (Hikaru, Hoshi, Reiji)
>Table 3 (Rei, Isamu, Akemi)
>Table 4 (Kosuke, Rini, Nanami, Ken)

>>601399
>Table 3 (Rei, Isamu, Akemi)
Fun times and chronic illness!

>>601399
>Table 4 (Kosuke, Rini, Nanami, Ken)

>>601399
>Table 3 (Rei, Isamu, Akemi)

>>601399
>Table 1 (Sayeka, Chihiro, Nariko, Hiro)
Should be fun.

>>601399
>>Table 1 (Sayeka, Chihiro, Nariko, Hiro)
Give hiro a heads up in case seishiro hasn't talked to him yet. I just don't want to start flirting in front of Akemi, that's just brutal guys.

>>601399
>Table 1 (Sayeka, Chihiro, Nariko, Hiro)

>>601399
>Table 1 (Sayeka, Chihiro, Nariko, Hiro)

>>601399
>>Table 1 (Sayeka, Chihiro, Nariko, Hiro)

>>601445
Admittedly, that issue will pop up eventually. And most voting for it just want to see comedy. But I agree. We'll have to figure this out eventually.

Also Saki and Rei at the same table was bound to cause issues too.

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>Table 1 (Sayeka, Chihiro, Nariko, Hiro)

You and Saki make your way over to the table inhabited by the group of Sayeka, Chihiro, Nariko and Hiro. Seems like they're a group you haven't been around all that much since your return, and it would be good to give Hiro a heads-up about the Seishiro-sized mistake you may have just dumped on his lap. As soon as you approach, Chihiro eagerly pulls out the chair next to her and offers it to you. You sit down, and she immediately smiles. "My, if it isn't the power couple!"

"Is that what people are calling us?" you ask.

"Well, Saki is the head of class," Nariko explains. "So it's like she's the president, and you're the first lady!"

"It's nothing like that," you mutter.

Chihiro spins in her chair to face you, crossing her legs and giving you her full attention. "My my, I couldn't help but notice that you two weren't holding hands. Could the relationship be on the rocks? Scandalous!"

"No, it's just against the school rules to have public displays of affection during school hours," Saki explains.

"Oh, well if you're not going to be close with Ryoji," Chihiro teases, moving her faces inches from the side of your face. "Maybe someone else will!"

Chihiro gives you a light peck on the cheek, causing Saki to blush. "Stop that," she mutters.

"Ohohoho!" Chihiro laughs. "Is my flirting tempting you to sin, Saki?"

"You can't taunt me into breaking the rules!" Saki remarks, defiantly.

"Maybe..." Chihiro mumbles, rising from her chair and standing behind Saki. "But it's just so fun to make you blush!"

Chihiro lightly pecks Saki on the cheek as well, turning the head of class into a gooey, flustered mess.

"Dial down the teasing before Saki melts," you say to Chihiro as she returns to her chair. "One day she'll get revenge for that, trust me."

"You already have a method for teasing Ryoji, don't you?" Sayeka asks Saki with a smile.

Saki gasps. "What? You know about my nickname?"

"Saki, I can see the future," Sayeka smiles. "It catches on."

"It does?" Saki laughs. "Yeah! Jellybean catches on!"

"She calls you jellybean?" Nariko snorts.

"I think it's a lovely nickname," Hiro remarks with a smile.

"Is that so?" Nariko smirks. "Would you like it if I called you that?"

"I certainly wouldn't mind!" Hiro smiles. "You can call me whatever you want!"

"Oh, I will..." Nariko mutters with a devilish grin on her face.

"Jellybean?" Chihiro smiles. "I have to say Saki, that is adorable!"

"Thank you, Chihiro," Saki smirks, as you hang your head low in defeat and embarrassment. They're all going to start calling you that now, aren't they?

"I'm sorry Ryoji," Sayeka replies. "I couldn't help myself in this instance. I felt Saki deserved this."

So much for her trying to stay detached. Sayeka loves everyone too much, she can't help but try to help out at times, though she'll probably end up beating herself up over this later.

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Soon, the table is approaches by Seishiro, and Nariko stands to confront him, pointing her finger at him. "No, bad Seishiro! No flirting! For the last time, none of us are interested! Our hearts lie... elsewhere."

Nariko swoons as she looks at Hiro, who seems blissfully unaware of the comment.

"I'm not here to flirt," Seishiro pouts. "I'm here to ask Hiro if he wants to hang out."

"Me?" Hiro asks. "Hang out? Of cou-"

"No way!" Nariko yells, grabbing Hiro and squeezing him tight. "He's mine! I won't let you taint him!"

"Please, we all know how badly you want to taint him," Seishiro sighs.

"It's okay, Nariko," Hiro smiles, as he gently breaks himself free of her grip. "I'm sure Seishiro is very lonely in the absence of his best friend. It would be wrong of me to neglect his emotions."

Nariko smiles as she places a hand on Hiro's cheek. "Oh, you are such a sweetheart... okay, go ahead."

Nariko sits down as Hiro wanders off with Seishiro. She lets out a sigh as he walks off. "Oh that boy..."

"You like him, huh?"

Nariko cups her face in her hands. "He's just so... innocent. Oblivious. He doesn't know the first thing when it comes to girls..."

"I noticed."

"He needs someone to bring him out of his shell," Nariko explains. "And I think that person should be me."

A small lull in the conversation ensues, as you find yourself with a chance to bring up a topic you're curious on.

>Nariko, how's the cats?
>Nariko, how's your rage problems going?
>Sayeka, has your blindness affected you much recently?
>Sayeka, how you holding up?
>Chihiro, how's Alice?
>Chihiro, are you still visiting your grandmother?

>>601579
>Chihiro, how's Alice?

>>601579
>Sayeka, how you holding up?

>>601579
>Sayeka, how you holding up?

>>601579
>Chihiro, how's Alice?

>>601574
>"You can call me whatever you want!"
Hiro is a good boy, been too long since we talked to him.

>>601579
>>Chihiro, how's Alice?
All the other questions seem loaded as hell.

>>601579
>Nariko, how's the cats?

>>601579
>Nariko, how's the cats?

>>601579
>Chihiro, how's Alice?

>>601579
>Chihiro, how's Alice?

>>601579
>>Chihiro, how's Alice?

File: Chihiro13.jpg (73 KB, 740x668)

73 KB JPG

>Chihiro, how's Alice?

"Hmm?" Chihiro asks. "Alice is doing great! She's doing..."

Chihiro sheds a few tears and begins to sob. "Oh, she decided that she wanted to live in the dorm with the rest of her classmates! She doesn't want to share a bed with me anymore! Oh, I'm so proud of her! That little girl's growing up!"

"That little girl being your eighty-year-old aunt," you remark.

"My fifteen-year-old aunt, you mean!" Chihiro huffs as she sniffles. "She's working to have that proper childhood that the darkworld so cruely ripped from her. Before you know it, she may even find herself with a little boyfriend of her own! And I think she has her eye on someone!"

"Uh-huh, great," you remark. "How's she handling The Dreamer. I'm guessing most of her sanity is back?"

"Indeed it is!" Chihiro beams, "Though my aunt always was the eccentric type to begin with. It must be why that demon feels so taken by her! She talks of that thing as though they were good friends now!"

"I wish I had that much control over my archdemon," you remark. "The Stranger does nothing but lie, try to screw me over, and occasionally yell stuff in my head."

"Hey, we can be pals!" you hear Stranger yell from within your head.

"Well, I guess some demon-possessions are luckier than others?" Nariko jokes with a smile.

"My aunt is certainly making the best of it!" Chihiro smiles, "Although... I worry. She doesn't age while that thing is a part of her... she's enjoy being able to finally live out her teen years... but she'll never not be doing so. She'll never become an adult."

You pause. You never thought of that before... and if it applies to Alice, then it also applies to...

"Oh, Ryoji!" Chihiro exclaims, as she notices the look on your face. "I didn't mean to worry you like that. I'm sorry."

"No, it's fine," you sigh. "I'm sure all of this will work itself out in the end."

"Let's hope..." Saki mutters.

You finish your lunch, as you and Saki stand up. "Okay Ryoji, it's time I went to the Class 1 clubroom," she mutters. "I need to go over some things with them. Enjoy the rest of your lunch."

Saki walks off, and you begin to wander around the corridors, wondering on where to go next.

>Library
>Running Track
>Roof
>Courtyard
>School Gate
>Homeroom

>Running Track
FUN
TIMES
AND
CHRONIC
ILLNESS

>>601696
>>Running Track
Fun times can win just this once.

>>601696
>Running Track
Let's help Isamu get SWOLE.

>>601696
>>School Gate
I think something interesting might happen

>>601696
>Courtyard

>>601696
>School Gate

We should ask Stranger about the demidemons and if there is a way to safely separate them from their host. He should have some idea being the all powerful archdemon he is and it could go a long way for him earning our trust or respect or something.

File: Rei05.jpg (135 KB, 600x1200)

135 KB JPG

>Running Track

Time to check in on Rei and Isamu, see how the two of them are doing.You stretch out a little before setting out, knowing that Rei is likely to throw you into an impromptu training session while she's at it. You saunter through the courtyard all the way down to the running tracks, where you are met with a very interesting sight. Rei, complete with her tight running shorts, pinning Isamu to the ground, likely the end to a bout of sparring. She has his hands pinned back with hers, her legs straddled across his chest, and her face mere inches away from his. You could cut the tension with a knife.

You clear your throat in order to grab their attention, and a red in the face way practically leaps from Isamu and onto her feet to explain herself. "It's not what it looks like!" She yells out. "We were just training and I had beaten him... you just came in at a bad time, Ryoji!"

"It's okay, I believe you," you shake your head. "Training's going well, I take it?"

"It's going swimmingly, Ryoji Shida!" Isamu booms, as he slowly picks himself off the ground. He wipes his sweat with his shirt, and as he pulls it up you can see that Rei's training has done wonders for Isamu's figure. Rei notices it too. "We've been having such a great time, Miss Arisato hasn't even once thought about her encounter with Miss Nagayo!"

Rei's eyes dart to the ground, frowning, as Isamu scratches the back of his head. "Oh... well, that one was my mistake!" he chuckles nervously. "For the most part, I've kept the beautiful princess in high spirits, as is the duty of a hero!"

You nod, before realising something. "Hey, weren't you guys hanging out with Akemi? Where did she get t-"

File: Akemi92.png (555 KB, 1023x966)

555 KB PNG

"SURPRISE ATTACK!" You hear Akemi yells from behind as she leaps onto your back and clings tightly to you.

"Whoa!" you exclaim, trying to keep your balance while also avoiding the ice-cream in her hands from being shoved in your face.

Akemi giggles as she reaches her hand out, offering a triple scoop ice-cream to Rei.

"You got this... for me?" Rei asks hesitantly.

"Yeah!" Akemi laughs. "You like ice-cream, right?"

"I... never tried it before," Rei mutters. "Ice-creams not exactly great for your health, you know."

"But it's delicious!" Akemi smiles.

Rei takes the cone hesitantly, and gives a quick glance over to Isamu.

"I know what you're thinking, Miss Arisato!" Isamu chuckles. "But have no fear! I, the great hero Isamu Iori will assist you in finishing this cone of vicious ice!"

"That's not what I was wondering..." a frustrated Rei mumbles, before tentatively licking the top part of the ice-cream... and immediately recoiling. "Ugh, this is not what I imagined ice-cream tasting like."

"That's because it's better!" Akemi laughs. "It's something I call Akemi cream that I make when I'm all out! First, I grab a lot of whipped cream, then I-"

"I don't want to know the rest," Rei mutters, before passing the cone over to Isamu, who seems to enjoy it. "So Ryoji, what brings you down here?"

>I thought we could get a quick training session in.
>I wanted to see what antics Akemi and Isamu would have.
>I just thought we could sit and chat.

>>601844
>I thought we could get a quick training session in.
>and I thought that after we coukd sit and chat.

>>601844
>I thought we could train and chat

AKEMI CREAM
IT LIVES

>>601844
>I just thought we could sit and chat.

>>601844
>I thought we could train and chat

>>601844
>I just thought we could sit and chat.

>>601844
>I thought we could train and chat

>>601844
>>I just thought we could sit and chat.

File: Rei04.jpg (391 KB, 1017x1445)

391 KB JPG

>I thought we could train and chat

Rei smirks as she crosses her arms. "Oh, you did? Well, I'm more than game for a quick sparring session to catch up! You've been slacking, Ryoji!"

"Didn't you just get finished with a sparring session?" you ask.

Rei snorts. "Yeah, against Isamu. That hardly takes any effort."

"And you think I would be?" you ask.

"Nah," Rei laughs. "To be honest, the best challenge out of all three of you would be Akemi."

"Yay!" Akemi smiles.

"I have just been struck by a marvelous idea!" Isamu yells, pointing his finger dramatically into the sky. "A two-on-one battle! The world's greatest hero, Isamu Iori, and his good friend, the Master Delinquent Ryoji Shida, going to battle against the beautiful goddess of battle, Miss Arisato!"

"So... you won't me to kick both your asses at the same time?" Rei remarks. "Shouldn't be a problem."

"Hang on," you remark. "I don't even have a weapon."

"Yes you do!" Akemi exclaims in a sing-song voice, as she holds out her hand and a gauntlet appears before her. The same fireworks gauntlet she made for you last term, only this one looks a little sleeker, with less fraying wires.

"Okay, how are you guys summoning weapons now?" you ask.

"Hoshi's magic is super neat!" Akemi smiles, as she present the gauntlet to you with a bow. "This is for you, Ryoji."

"Thanks, Akemi," you smile, as you take the gauntlet and place it on your own hand.

"Hey Akemi, why don't you join in?" Rei asks. "I don't think I've ever gotten the chance to train you, stretch you out."

"I can join in?" Akemi smiles. "Oh boy!"

"Just... remember to use the turrets with rubber bullets, okay?" Rei asks.

"Will do!" Akemi smiles, giving the thumbs up.

So... Rei has set the challenge. The three of you against her... and somehow despite the numbers game, the odds don't seem to be in your favour. Oh well, at least it's a way to get a conversation out of Rei by doing her favourite thing in the world.

Isamu summons his spear, Rei leaps back, summoning her sword as she does, and you ready your gauntlet. Rei isn't going to take it easy on you, that's for sure.

>[SELECT AN ACTION FOR EACH CHARACTER]
>Ryoji
>Isamu
>Akemi

>>601935
I did not expect this, but I am excited for it!

>Ryoji
Go for the punch, the old classic to start us off.
>Isamu
Try to find an opening to flank Rei and poke at her
>Akemi
Fire around, but not at Rei to try and pin her into a tight circle. The moment she has movement is the moment that we're in trouble.

>Okay Akemi has the most total power, but isn't a fighter, she needs to get to range to set up her turrets.
>Isamu and Ryoji will provide the range by getting inbetween Rei and Akemi
>Isamu knows how Rei fights, follow his lead in battle
>Ryoji will get knocked down at some point, use this as a chance to fire off the gauntlet as a shock tactic.

>>601935
>Ryoji
Throw some dirt in Rei's face to distract and blind her.
>Isamu
After Rei is (hopefully) blinded, have him approach her flank and attack.
>Akemi
While Ryoji and Isamu are dealing with Rei have her cover the area with her turrets, try and have as large a killzone as possible.

>>601960
This sounds most like the plan I had in mind. Ryoji and Isamu going at Rei to buy Akemi some time to set up turrets.

Calling for;
>Okay Akemi has the most total power, but isn't a fighter, she needs to get to range to set up her turrets.
>Isamu and Ryoji will provide the range by getting inbetween Rei and Akemi
>Isamu knows how Rei fights, follow his lead in battle
>Ryoji will get knocked down at some point, use this as a chance to fire off the gauntlet as a shock tactic.

Roll 3d100 please, best of 3.

Rolled 36, 16, 55 = 107 (3d100)

>>601998

Rolled 43, 37, 94 = 174 (3d100)

>>601998

Rolled 10, 64, 2 = 76 (3d100)

>>601998
Go scrubs go!

>>602001
>>602002
>>602004
Asuming the rolls and battle order are accurate.
>Ryoji 43
>Isamu 64
>Akemi 94

Maybe Rei is onto something here...

>>601971
Voting for this

>>602028
A little late there, mate. If we're fortunate enough to have a second round, then maybe we'll use some of those tactics.

File: Akemi87.jpg (70 KB, 640x815)

70 KB JPG

>Ryoji: 43 + 10
>Isamu: 64 -10
>Akemi: 94 + 18

Akemi needs time to set-up her turrets, and Rei knows that. She'll likely go for the turrets right away and try to destroy them. As such, you and Isamu will need to work to keep a distance between Rei and Akemi. Isamu has been training with Rei all summer, so he's bound to know how she fights, and as such you allow for him to make the first move in battle. Isamu readies his spear. "Go forth Gungnir, Odin's Bolt!" he cries as he charges at Rei.

Rei simply lets out an exasperated sigh as she begins to move... and boy does she move. It isn't even like a girl running, it's like a flash of light before your eyes, and before you know it, she leaping over Isamu as her drives his spear forward, and bashing him in the back of the neck with the brunt of her sword, sending him falling forward, face-first to the ground in a temporary daze. Before you can even ready your gauntlet, she's in front of you, and kicking you back. As you are knocked down, you ready your gauntlet, prepared to fire it off as a shock tactic, but you're far to slow. Or rather, Rei is far, far too fast. She zips to your side, burying her boot under you back in order to launch you upward like a soccer ball, before kicking you in the ribs once again while you're mid-air, launching you forward.

Rei smirks. "Oh come on, is that all you guys have got! I swear, the two of you losers aren't worth a single Akir..."

Rei pauses in thought, giving the moment of hesitation necessary for her to be successfully pelted with a string of rubber bullets from Akemi's turrets, rather hefty devices that she seems to have grafted onto her body. Damn... she set that up much faster than even you were expecting. Akemi really is a real whiz with tech.

"Haha! I'm doing it!" Akemi jumps up and down in celebration as the turret forces Rei to jump back and recollect herself. Spinning the sword in her hand once more she breaks into a sprinting charge toward Akemi and her turret with her sword raised high.

>[DEFENSIVE ROLL FOR AKEMI. ROLL 1D100, BEST OF 3]

Rolled 58 (1d100)

>>602074

Rolled 68 (1d100)

>>602074
Protect monkey!

Rolled 35 (1d100)

>>602074

Rolled 3 (1d100)

>>602074
Look at this nat 100

>>602083
68 isn't bad considering her DEX. Maybe she's got a shot.

>>602090
only 97 off mate, you're quite close

Rolled 42 (1d100)

>>602090
Can I reenact that one were someone made fun of a 3 and got a 2?

Rolled 98 (1d100)

>>602090
>>602107
HOLY SHINTO

>>602102
At least I got rid of the 3 in a mock battle
Unlike >>602117
The dice gods work in mysterious ways

File: Rei14.jpg (287 KB, 700x1000)

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>Rolled 68+3

Rei brings the brunt of her sword down upon Akemi, who, in a panicked state, somehow manages to narrowly slip by the swing by... crawling onto Rei's back.

"What the?!" Rei growls, as she spins around trying to shake off Akemi, who is clinging onto her as tight as possible. Akemi's monkey crawling paying off in battle it seems. "Get off of me, dammit!"

"But then you'll hit me!" Akemi points out, a fact Rei can't argue with.

"This... this is cheating!" Rei exclaims, spinning in a circle at incredible speed, hoping it will send Akemi flying from her back, but the little munchkin continues to hold on. "Dammit Akemi!"

Rei eventually has enough, reaching over her back and grabbing the cloth of Akemi's uniform. Using her grip Rei pulls at Akemi, prying her free and flinging her over her head, only for Akemi to land safely on her toes several feet away in an impressive piece of gymnastics. "What? How did you do that?" Rei asks.

"I don't know!" Akemi smiles, "But I want to do it again!"

Rei's eye twitches, as you and Isamu rise to your feet, ready to go for round two.

>[SELECT ONE ACTION FOR EACH CHARACTER]
>Ryoji
>Isamu
>Akemi

>>602146
Pretty much the same plan as last time.

>Ryoji
Use his Skill to throw dirt in Rei's eyes to blind and distract her.
>Isamu
Use Isamu's Skill to boost Ryoji's and Akemi's roll, as well as hopefully pissing Rei off and getting her off balance.
>Akemi
While Rei's distracted have her fire from range.

>>602146
All right here is everyone involved traits
RYOJI
Master Delinquent: +10 to all actions that involve fighting dirty

DRAWBACKS
The Universe Hates You: -10 to any luck-based actions
AKEMI
Tech Whiz: +15 to all rolls involving machinery

DRAWBACKS
Airhead: -20 to all knowledge rolls
ISAMU
Inspirational Hero: Can give a rousing speech, granting +5 to the Party's rolls for that turn

DRAWBACK
Loser: -10 to all attack rolls
REI
Speedster: +10 to all running rolls
Better to Burn Out: +10 to all combat rolls at the beginning of battle

DRAWBACKS
Than to Fade Away: -2 to combat rolls each turn, until the 10th turn
Never Stop Running: -5 to defensive rolls

>>602146
Going with this >>602161

>>602161
Yep commence operation dirt clod!

>>602161
We fight dirty like the powerless delinquent we are.

Calling for;
>>Ryoji
>Use his Skill to throw dirt in Rei's eyes to blind and distract her.
>>Isamu
>Use Isamu's Skill to boost Ryoji's and Akemi's roll, as well as hopefully pissing Rei off and getting her off balance.
>>Akemi
>While Rei's distracted have her fire from range.

No roll required for using Isamu's skill, so roll 2D100, Best of 3.

Rolled 81, 67 = 148 (2d100)

>>602227
DICE GODS

Rolled 1, 15 = 16 (2d100)

>>602227

Rolled 16, 63 = 79 (2d100)

>>602227
GOOOOO

>>602232
Yep, guess that's a wrap on the rest of the day then.

>>602232
I wouldn't mind Crits override as long as we don't get a 1 in a real battle

>>602227
Lets just warm up the dice for the next set

Rolled 1, 93 = 94 (2d100)

>>602252
Whoops forgot the dice

>>602266
>>602232
Pls

>>602266
This is amazing.

>>602230
>>602232
>>602233
Well thanks to no crits.
>Ryoji 81
>Akemi 67

Here's mud in your eye, Rei...

May have angered the bear a bit though.

>>602292
>Ryoji ends up with a 96 thanks to the bonuses.

Rei I thought we were meant to be sparring not doing our best Sayeka impressions.

>>602301
I don't think Rei getting BTFO by the weakest members of the class is going to do any good to her self esteem

File: Rei15.jpg (156 KB, 850x1305)

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Ryoji: 81 + 15
Akemi: 67 + 8

Isamu readies his spear, and begins to act as Isamu usually does in the heat of battle, but spouting off some nonsense instead of actually fighting.

"Ah, the beautiful goddess of battle is a fearsome opponent!" Isamu booms. "One that has won many a battle in her time! But I believe that she has finally met her match. Isamu Iori, Akemi Ibushi, Ryoji Shida. Bonds more powerful than any blade. Through the raw power of friendship and heroism... we shall prove victiorious!"

Isamu has a flair for the dramatic, and while his way with words certainly roused Akemi, it only motivates you to have this fight be over and done with sooner... so in a way, it worked. As Rei readies her sword, you decide to blindside her, reaching down and grabbing a handful of dirt and gravel. It's not like you could ever beat Rei in a fair fight, so you've got to bust out your delinquent tricks. You move towards Rei, and she moves towards you, unaware of the surprise in your hand just for her. She rushes forward, only to be hit in the face with dirt, temporarily blinding her. In her now, staggering state, she's an easy target for Akemi, who lets lose with the rubber bullets.

Rei is hit by bullet after bullet, causing her ti stagger back, before tripping over herself and beginning to fall. Isamu, momentarily forgetting who's team he's on, leap to save her, catching her before she lands flat on her ass. "Have no fear, Miss Arisato! Your saviour has rescued you!"

"Isamu, you idiot, we're supposed to be fighting..." Rei groans, as she begins to rub the dirt from her eyes.

Isamu catches a glimpse of the bottom of Rei's sword and begins to squint. "Miss Arisato... I never noticed this etched into the bottom of your sword."

Rei's still burning eyes widen as she shoots up from Isamu's grip and conceals the hilt of her sword. "There's nothing there!" she yells.

"But there is!" Isamu protests. "It seemed you carved something into the bottom of your sword! What was it?"

"It was nothing! Just your eyes playing tricks on you!" a panicked Rei babbles. "Anyway, it looks like I underestimated all of you... except Akemi, I always knew you could do it."

Akemi pumps her fist. "Yay, Rei believes in me!"

"So..." Rei begins. "Let's call it a draw."

"A draw?" you remark. "We won."

"Oh please, you think I couldn't have come back from that if I tried?" Rei smirks. "Besides, you had to fight dirty! How the hell can you call that a proper victory!"

Ah, there's that classic Rei pride. Never willing to admit she's been beaten. A draw is about as generous as it gets for her.

It's not like you can continue the training for much longer anyway, as the bell rings signalling the end of lunch-time. Akemi hops onto Isamu's back in celebration of their draw, and the two march forward to class as Rei slowly follows behind, rubbing her sore eyes.

>Sorry about that, but all's fair in combat, right?
>I'm sure you're not happy about losing.
>So... what's on the sword?

>So... what's on the sword?
A draw is better than we could expect in a real fight.

>>602367
>>Sorry about that, but all's fair in combat, right?
>>So... what's on the sword?

>>602367
>Sorry about that, but all's fair in combat, right?
She doesn't want to talk about the sword, I don't want sad rei.

>>602391
Wouldn't be sad Rei, it would be embarrassed Rei

>>602367
>Sorry about that, but all's fair in combat, right?
>So... what's on the sword?

>>602367
>So... what's on the sword?

>>602367
>So... what's on the sword?

>>602367
>Sorry about that, but all's fair in combat, right?
>So... what's on the sword?

>Talks about fighting fair
>When she has SANIC powers
Cmon Rei.

Calling for
>So... what's on the sword?
Making food, so there's be a 15-20 minute delay on the next update, so stay tuned.

Back. Writing now.

>>602491
Predictions on the name anyone? I'm going Dàinslief.

File: Rei21.jpg (241 KB, 850x1275)

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"What?" Rei asks.

"The sword," you reply. "Isamu kind of an idiot, but he's not blind. What did you write on your sword?"

"Nothing!" Rei protests.

"Come on, you can trust me," you smile.

Rei looks at you, before letting out a sigh. "Okay... but just keep this between us. When... when I was in possibly my darkest point during the summer... Isamu had the bright idea to come bother me. Spouting off his usual nonsense, this time talking about how it was time for him to take on a bride, and he just straight up proposed to me."

"Sounds about right," you mutter. "Isamu's always been like that."

"Well, after I obviously said no, he challenged me to combat where if he won, he could claim my hand in marriage."

"I'm guessing you didn't let him win..." you remark.

"No. I didn't. But at the same time he talked to me about the possibility of naming my sword. He went on and on about how a hero's weapon is their best friend, and instilling a name on it gives it special meaning to the wielder and all his usual nonsense."

"So you gave your sword a name?" you ask.

"No, instead I acted like an ass and berated Isamu until he ran off crying..." Rei mutters. "Never going to forgive myself for that one. And even then, Isamu decided to put his quest for a bride just to help me through my troubles..."

"Maybe he thinks he's found his bride already," you tease.

"No, shut up," Rei fires back. "But... his speech, and his kindness, and his... everything got me thinking, and I eventually gave it a name. For myself. Isamu can never know I did the dumb kind of thing he would do."

"So that's what's etched in there?" you ask. "So... what's it's name? Something cool, like Excalibur?"

"No," Rei chuckles. "I can assure you it's not anything cool. Trust me. I named it... and just keep this between us..."

"I'm waiting..."

"I named it Isamu."

>Well... that's adorable.
>He must mean a lot to you.
>I can think of cooler names.

>>602538
>>Well... that's adorable.
>>He must mean a lot to you.
THIS IS THE CUTEST OH MY GOOOD

>>602538
>Well... that's adorable.
>He must mean a lot to you.
Well I was off the mark...but man is that sweet.

>>602538
>>Well... that's adorable.
>>He must mean a lot to you.
Rei a cute, a cute!

>>602538
>Well... that's adorable.
>He must mean a lot to you.

>>602538
>Well... that's adorable.
>He must mean a lot to you.

>>602538
>Well... that's adorable.
>He must mean a lot to you.

>>602538
>>He must mean a lot to you.
>Well... that's adorable.
Hnnnnnng
Stop Rei don't give me all this feels Isamu is supposed to be for Amaya

>>602538
>Well... that's adorable.
>He must mean a lot to you

File: Rei26.jpg (320 KB, 595x595)

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>Well... that's adorable.
>He must mean a lot to you.

Rei looks ahead at Isamu, who is still carrying an excited Akemi on his back and charging ahead to the school. "He... he does. When I drove everyone away and was all alone... he was there. And he stayed there no matter how... stupid or harsh or cruel I was to him. That goofball's got an iron will, and... he gave me hope."

"How so?"

"I think I found the one person in the world more... stubborn than I am," Rei smiles, putting her hands in her pockets. Isamu doesn't know the meaning of the word 'surrender'. He constantly pushes on, no matter what. Just like me, except..."

"Except what?"

"Except... he keeps pushing on because he has an overwhelming faith that things will get better. I keep pushing on because... there's nothing else I can do. Maybe if I was a little more like Isamu, I wouldn't be in this position. If I were more like him... I wouldn't be dying."

"Rei..."

Rei shakes her head. "Whatever. That's not why I named this thing after him. I named it after him because when I thought there was nothing but darkness... he came along and made me smile again. I may be a billion times tougher than him... but in a way, his hero routine is paying off. He's the knight, and I'm the princess... only, I'm the only princess he could never truly save."

"There's still hope," you mutter. "Don't give up yet, Rei."

"There's still hope..." Rei sighs. "But hope's all that's left. Sometimes though... hope can be enough to keep me going. Thanks, Ryoji... and if you tell anyone about this, least of all Isamu, I'll kill you."

"Wouldn't expect any less."

Rei rushes ahead to catch up with Isamu and Akemi, and the four of you make your way to class. Once you return to the homeroom, you see Seishiro entering with his arm slung around Hiro's arm, laughing uncontrollably. You know that if Hiro had the sense to be annoyed by someone, he's be severely uncomfortable next to Seishiro, but instead he keeps a dumb friendly smile on his face.

File: Naoaki.jpg (215 KB, 700x697)

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You sleep through another lecture right up until the final bell for the day. Wow, you didn't miss a single minute of class today. Pretty astounding now that you think about it.

"Ryoji, can I speak with you after class?" Akihito asks, and you're too drowsy from your class-time nap to refuse.

"Sure teach, what's up?" you ask.

"It's about my nephew."

"Akio?" you ask. "What about him?"

"Well, I'm just bringing this up with you because I understand you're a friend of Akio's... and his other friend may not be able to handle this delicately."

"You're not wrong," you shrug. "Shoot."

"Ryoji... Akio left to train with his other uncle, my older brother... Naoaki Naito. Have you heard of him?"

"Can't say that I have," you reply.

"Well for one... he's a giant," Akihito explains. "No exaggeration, he is the single largest man I have ever seen. It wouldn't be insane to place him at eight feet in height, perhaps even more."

"Sounds unbelievable, but go on."

"He's also horrendously cruel," Akihito explains. "He's as harsh and violent as they come. Akio was originally forbidden from training with Naoaki when he was ten year old, after Naoaki cut him open, leaving a scar across his torso that stands to this day."

"And Akio singed up for this willingly?" you reply. "Not sure why you're telling me this though."

"Ryoji..." Akihito sighs. "Today, I saw Hikaru crying in the corridors by herself. It's not the first time I've seen her like that. She's frightened for Akio's safety... and so am I. Knowing my older brother the way that I do... I believe my nephew has been killed. It pains me to say I have such little faith, but I do. I just have to ask you, as his friend... as someone who knows Akio better than I shamefully ever gave the chance to... I have to ask what you think?"

>I think he's still alive and training.
>Not only is he alive, but he's on the way back now.
>I don't think he's dead, but I also don't think he's coming back.
>I hate to say it... but Akio might be dead.

Rolled 98 (1d100)

>>602708
>Not only is he alive, but he's on the way back now.
Rolling for Akio's chances of survival.

>>602708
>Not only is he alive, but he's on the way back now.

>>602722
Nice

>>602708
>>I think he's still alive and training.
Probably too optimistic to go with the second choice.

>>602708
>>I think he's still alive and training.
Have faith. He'll pop up in this episode. My trope sense is telling me.

>mfw captcha was find all the mountains

>>602708
>>Not only is he alive, but he's on the way back now.

>>602708
>Not only is he alive, but he's on the way back now.

File: Saki62.png (584 KB, 783x1000)

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>Not only is he alive, but he's on the way back now.

"You truly believe that, don't you?" Akihito asks.

You nod. "Of course I do. I've got faith of Akio. Just because your brother's some giant bully or something doesn't mean I should assume he's dead. Akio won't stop until he's the best, and I think he's reached that point, and is on his way back right now. Trust me, within the next few days we'll see Akio touchingly reuniting with Hikaru."

Akihito nods, before smiling. "I see... thank you Ryoji. Your words instil me with some faith."

"No problem, teach."

"It's good to have you back."

"Good to be back."

You and Akihito share a brief smile between each-other before you speak up once more. "This isn't going to last, is it?"

"Of course not, the moment you slip up, it's a months detention," Akihito replies.

You and Akihito both give nods of understanding as you step out of the classroom, where you are greeted by an impatient looking Saki. "Ryoji, come with me to the dorms, now."

"Uhh... okay?" you reply, as you follow her all the way back to the class 2 dormitory building. She leads you into your room and shuts the door behind her.

"Sak, what is this about?" you ask.

"Hang on, Ryoji!" She exclaims, staring at a watch wrapped around her wrist. Where did she even get that? "Okay... school hours are officially over in three... two... one..."

As soon as Saki's countdown finishes, she rushes you. Saki throws her arms around you and presses her lips against yours in an intense, passionate kiss. She charges at you with such aggression that you end up falling back onto the bed, with Saki on top of you, continuing to bombard you with kisses, before lightly nibbling on your neck. "You've been holding this in all day, huh?"

"It was even harder not to crack than I thought!" Saki cries. "I thought I had it under control, but all day I've been hungry for a taste of my jellybean!"

"Not going to lie, Sak... I just started liking this nickname."

File: Maro.jpg (90 KB, 564x1075)

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"Oh, Ryoji... does this make me an uncontrollable creature of lust?" Saki worries. "I mean... I never saw myself as lustful, and I'm definitely not lewd, and yet..."

"Saki, I'm not that long back..." you smile. "In reality, that handsy early-goings of the relationship was held up for months. It's okay for you to be overly excited and lovey-dovey right now. Let it all out."

Saki looks you in the eyes and smiles, before planting another kiss on you lips... and promptly being interrupted by the door knocking. You sigh, as Saki gets off you and you make your way to the door in order to answer. You pull it open to be met with Maro on the other end. "This better be important, Maro."

"It is," Maro states. "It seems that Wei has pinpointed a strange power that may be our missing Archdemon from the last mission, and he's tasked you and a few others from the class to track it down."

"Okay... where is it."

"It doesn't seem to have moved that far from the last town attacked," Maro explains. "In a town by the name of Chishiki."

"What?!" you hear Hikaru exclaim from down the hall, having overheard the conversation. She rushes up to Maro and butts in. "Then we need to get going right away! Before something happens and the people in town end up dead!"

You raise an eyebrow. "I don't disagree, but why did you become so passionate when you heard the name?"

"Why do you think?!" Hikaru exclaims. "Because I'm from Chishiki. My family are there."

That's all for tonight! We'll be continuing from tomorrow afternoon GMT!

>>602868
Saki is so freaking lewd.

>>602868
Better prepare for some suffering and a Big Damn Hero moment for Akio.

>>602868
>does this make me an uncontrollable creature of lust?
Yes Saki, you are the semenest of demons.

>>602868
>Because I'm from Chishiki. My family are there."
Ah shit, lets hope the town isn't in ruins this time.

Rolled 61 (1d100)

>>602868
Rolling for the likelihood Hikaru has to kill her own parents.

>>602868
Oh man...this is going to be a hard sit through tomorrow. I don't doubt that Hikaru is going to be not doing so hot.

Maro is now given the title of Master Cockblock.

And seriously, Saki's nibbling is the cutest thing and she needs to do it as much as possible.

>>602881
Saki is on the road to becoming the greatest semen demon.

Rolled 69 (1d100)

>>602901
Also rolling for the likelihood Satomi has to kill her own parents.

>>602938
>Inb4 she get the archdemon of lewdness

File: Satomi07.png (309 KB, 700x935)

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"This is bad..."

Indeed it is bad. The presence of an Archdemon being sensed near the town of Chishiki, the hometown of your classmate Hikaru. The worried muttering and frantic pacing of Hikaru tells the whole story.

"Yes," Maro nods. "And a group from Class 2 are required to set out immediately to handle it."

"I'm coming," Hikaru states in a determined voice. "I don't care who you want on your team, Saki. I'm coming."

Saki sighs. "I wasn't going to dispute that, Hikaru. Chishiki is your home, and I'm not going to keep you from it. Besides, your knowledge of the area will prove valuable."

"It's not just her home!" you hear Satomi's voice cry out in anger as she runs down the hallway to join the rest of you.

"Yeah, it's Shinji's too of course," you mutter.

"No!" Satomi yells, "It's my home! My family lives there too! You have to take me!"

Oh yes, how could you forget? Satomi and Hikaru grew up together. They share a home, despite usually being unable to share a room with each-other for five minutes.

"I don't know, it could be dangerous for the two of you," you remark. "From what I remember, neither of you were all that powerful."

"We've gotten stronger!" Satomi protests, "We trained with Rei, and I've developed all kinds of new chemicals to attack enemies with in battle!"

"And what about you, Hikaru?" you ask.

"I've started learning magic!" Hikaru explains. "Not as widespread as Hoshi, but I found it easier to stick with a single school of magic and try to master it. In my case, I've landed on water magic."

"Yes, but magic is no match for the wonder of cold hard science!" Satomi explains, adjusting her glasses proudly. "Which is why you should bring me along instead of her!"

"Calm down," Saki sighs. "Both of you are coming along. Maro, can you spare Shinji, too?"

"Yep," Maro replies. "He's been chomping at the bit since hearing the news. He wants to go protect his family."

File: Akuro05.jpg (87 KB, 460x580)

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"A new mission?" you hear a voice call out from the common room, as the black haired agent that Class 3 picked up on their last mission, Akuro Yoi... sister of Raiden, steps out into the hall. "Perfect, I'll have all of my equipment ready within five-"

"You're not going," Maro mutters.

"What?" Akuro gasps.

"We need you to stay here and try to get in contact with your superiors," Maro explains. "With the Darkworld bleeding out into the rest of ours, this school is going to need all the help it can get. Come with me."

As Maro leads Akuro out of the room, Saki turns to Hikaru and Satomi. "Look, I'm bringing you both along on this one. Can you promise not to argue and fight the whole time? We need to be serious."

The two hesitate briefly, before nodding. "Of course," Hikaru adds. "We might not be able to get along, but this is our families in danger! We can put our diferences aside for that."

"I just hope it's not too late..." Satomi mutters, her eyes darting to the ground.

"It's not," a determined Hikaru replies.

With a deep breath, collecting herself and turning on her "Leader mode" after a session with her "Lewd mode" was so unfortunately interrupted, Saki turns to you. "Okay, this is likely a 12 person mission. When it comes to surveying the area around the town, we'll split into teams of 6. I'll lead team A and you'll lead team B."

"Can't I lead the A-team?" you ask.

"No, don't be silly," Saki pouts. "Now, between you, myself, Hikaru, Satomi and Shinji, there's seven slots left to fill on this mission. Any idea on who we should take?"

>[SELECT 7 CHARACTERS FROM CLASS 2]

>>606881
Oh geez. Okay I say...
>Hiro
>Kosuke
>Rini
>Seishiro
>Reiji
>Akira
>Sora

>>606881
>Kosuke
>Rini
>Hiro
>Hoshi
>Reiji
>Akemi
>Chihiro

>>606881
>Rei
>Ken
>Nariko
>Hoshi
>Hiro
>Seishiro
>Akira

>>606881
>Hiro
Definitely need a healer.
>Hoshi
Her +15 modifier will help minimise dice fuckery.
>Isamu
His +5 team modifier could come in handy, plus the only way he'll get stronger is if we actually use him.
>Akira
Pretty good combat stats as well as having a +10 defence modifier.
>Seishiro
Pretty good ranged fighter, can back up Hoshi.
>Kosuke
Pretty good stats, has a +10 modifier since we're bringing Rini.
>Rini
Same reason as Kosuke.
>Sora
He's immune to any mind fuckery.

>>606881
>Hiro
>Kosuke
>Rini
>Seishiro
>Sayeka
>Akira
>Chihiro
I didn't have a 7th pick so I kind of winged it.

>>606912
Whoops, didn't mean to list 8, drop Akira since that line up has quite a few close combat fighters anyway.

>Hiro : 5
>Kosuke: 4
>Rini: 4
>Seishiro: 4
>Akira: 3
>Hoshi: 3
>Reiji: 2
>Sora: 2
>Chihiro: 2

Tie for the 7th spot between three. New vote, calling in five minutes, for
>Reiji
>Sora
>Chihiro

>>606936
>Chihiro

>>606936
>Reiji

>>606936
>Reiji

>>606936
>Sora

Calling for
>Reiji

Full party is;
>Ryoji
>Saki
>Hikaru
>Satomi
>Shinji
>Hiro
>Kosuke
>Rini
>Seishiro
>Akira
>Hoshi
>Reiji

Writing now.

File: Satomi10.jpg (819 KB, 797x870)

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You gather up the rest of the party that you and Saki decided upon for this mission, and you begin to set out among the school gates. Immediately you notice a lot of tension among the party. Between Hikaru and Satomi, Hikaru and her brother, Seishiro and Hikaru, and Akira feeling tense among everyone, it's not the most comfortable a group can be amongst each-other. At least there's some better dynamics mixed in, like Kosuke and Rini, Hoshi and Reiji... even yourself and Saki prove to be a more positive force. Heck, Hiro's a one man army when it comes to positive energy, kid even managed to pull some semblance of friendship out of Seishiro of all people.

You notice the heads hanging low of all three of the Chishiki natives in the group as you continue to move. Satomi is the first to speak up, asking Hikaru a question. "Do... do you think our school is still intact?"

"I don't want to think about it," Hikaru mutters.

"Remember that park we used to play at?" Satomi asks. "What... what if it's been destroyed?"

"I don't want to think about it," Hikaru repeats.

"But what if-"

"I don't want to think about it!" Hikaru yells in Satomi face, picking up her pace as she moves at the front of the group.

"You should ask less questions," Shinji remarks to Satomi. "You're her best friend. You should know by now that she hates questions."

"What did you say?" Satomi asks, adjusting her glasses.

"You're her best friend."

"No I'm not!" Satomi cries. "We fell out!"

"What?" Shinji asks. "When?"

"Years ago!" Satomi fires back. "Don't you pay any attention to your sister's life?"

Shinji looks at Satomi, then to Hikaru, then sighs. "No... sorry, I had no idea. The two of you were so close."

"Yeah, well we're enemies now!" Satomi crosses her arms.

"Shame," Shinji remarks. "You two were inseparable. And I thought you were a good influence on Hikaru."

"You did?" Satomi asks, somewhat shocked. "You thought I was a good influence on her? Not the other way around?"

"I'm sure she rubbed off well on you too," Shinji shrugs. "I'm saying that my sister could have been in worse company than yours. You've always been a sweet kid."

"Wow... thanks," Satomi smiles.

"Weird, though. Are you still crazy into science?" Shinji asks.

Satomi chuckles nervously, but doesn't give an answer. Shinji marches on ahead of the group.

"You should talk to one of them," Saki whispers in your ear as she walks by your side.

"Why me?" you ask.

"Because you always do this," Saki explains. Can't argue with that. It has very much become your role in the group. "All three of them are worried about their home, their family possibly being gone by the time we get there, and none of them are on good enough terms with each-other to help one another out. You should do it."

You sigh. She's not wrong at all, but which one of those three are you going to try and talk to?

>Hikaru
>Satomi
>Shinji

>>607007
>Satomi

>>607007
>Satomi
Though I don't think you can go wrong with Hikaru or Shinji either.

Here's hoping that we can mend some fences, slowly but surely. We were bound to have some interpersonal issues with this group, after all.

>>607007
>Shinji
I think she likes you

>>607007
>Hikaru
Shinji would be fine as well.

>>607007
Satomi

>>607007
>>Satomi
She needs to talk the most.

>>607007
>Satomi
Shinji's in there.

File: Satomi15.png (314 KB, 550x815)

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>Satomi

The Shirai's are tough. Shinji's a no nonsense soldier, and Hikaru has never been the type to break down at the first hurdle. Satomi however, is not made of sterner stuff like them. This is the same girl who hid away under her blankets when she discovered that she didn't come first in the school exams. If any of those three are going to need emotional support right now, it's Satomi.

You step of to the science geek with your hands in your pocket, delicately addressing her. "Hey Satomi... how you holding up?"

Satomi sniffles. "Oh... not to bad, just... scared... terrified... fearing for the only home I know and the family that loves me..."

"It'll be okay," you reassure her, placing a hand on her shoulder. "We're on our way now, and we're gonna make it before anything bad goes down, okay? And who knows, it might all prove to be a false alarm."

"That's improbable," Satomi remarks. "It's highly likely that with the Archdemon so much closer to the town than we are, that by the time we reach there, not only will it have killed everyone present, it will have also moved on to the next town already."

"That's a worst case scenario," you reply. "Try not to worry too much about the worst case scenario, okay? Look, try to take your mind off it for a second, think about something casual. We'll have a nice casual talk where there's no need to panic about anything."

"Ryoji, are you mocking me?" Satomi asks. "You know full well I don't understand normal conversational tactics!"

"Well, start out by asking me a question," you shrug. "Go on, something simple."

"A question..." Satomi pauses. "Okay... I've got one."

"Shoot."

"Do you know if Shinji is single?"

"Satomi, no." You let out a sigh. "You can't go down that rabbit hole."

"Why not?" Satomi protests. "He's only a year older! And he's cool, and he's handsome, and he said nice things about me!"

"Are you going to fall for any boy who says nice things about you?" you ask.

"No, but what if I've had my eye on him for years?" Satomi asks. "When we were kids, I always thought that I could marry Hikaru's brother and we could become closer than best friends... and now, I think to myself that if I can't be Hikaru's friend... I could become her next sister-in-law."

"Satomi, that's insane. And more than a little creepy."

"I'm not creepy!" Satomi protests. "I like Shinji, and it's the only way me and Hikaru could ever be close again! Do you really think me and Hikaru can become friends again normally?"

>Of course I do. Hell, you could start trying right now.
>No. You should just move on from Hikaru, find a new friend.
>I think there's something in there worth salvaging.
>You know what? Go ahead and ask Shinji out. I kinda want to see the trainwreck.

>>607113
>I think there's something in there worth salvaging.
Must...resist...bait option.

>>607113
>>I think there's something in there worth salvaging
That bait.

>>607113
>Of course I do. Hell, you could start trying right now.

>>607113
>>You know what? Go ahead and ask Shinji out. I kinda want to see the trainwreck.
It's not bait if I don't bite it.

>>607113
>Do you want help and advice on Shinji?

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>607123
>>607129
Worth Salvaging

>>607134
>>607135
Trainwreck

Tie. Rolling to decide.

>>607113
>>Of course I do. Hell, you could start trying right now.
Not that I don't want them together but this could end up in drama if she doesn't move carefully

File: Satomi19.jpg (531 KB, 700x1028)

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>I think there's something in there worth salvaging.

Satomi huffs. "No there's not. She abandoned me. She left me behind in order to become a cool, popular girl because she was embarrassed with me!"

"Oh come on, it couldn't have been that bad," you remark.

"It was! After those stupid popular girls started including Hikaru in their stuff back in middle school... I wasn't invited to anything. Hikaru started to pretend like I didn't exist! It... it was a stab in the back. I hate her."

"Do you really?" you ask.

Satomi sighs. "I... no..."

"The two of you were the best of friends, right? And it's obvious you miss that. Don't you want to go back to that?"

"I..." Satomi mutters. "I do. I miss it so much. I'm so lonely without her!"

"And Hikaru's been pretty lonely herself," you add. "It's never to late to rekindle that friendship."

"Maybe..." Satomi mutters. "Maybe visiting home can bring back some good memories between us? If there's a home left..."

Satomi sighs, and the group continues walking.

You make steady progress toward the town. As you walk through the countryside, passing by a watermill, you see Shinji pull the envelope, supposedly a letter from Akio, out of his inner pocket, staring at it before staring at Hikaru, hesitating. Hikaru looks back, and she sees her brother frantically stuff the envelope back into his pocket in an attempt to hide it.

"What was that?" she asks.

"What was what?" Shinji replies.

"Don't act dumb with me," Hikaru places her hands on her hips as she stares sternly at Shinji. "I know that look on your face. It's the face you use when you're trying to hide something from me. Surprise, surprise... you use it a lot."

"Hikaru, you don't want to see this..." Shinji mutters.

Hikaru pouts. "Try me. Hand it over."

Shinji hesitates and deliberates, before letting out a sigh and handing the envelope over to Hikaru. Hikaru opens it up, and reads the letter inside, a look of horror steadily creeping on the face as her eyes dart across the page. After a long, uncomfortable silence, she looks up at Shinji. "How long have you had this?"

"Not long," Shinji replies. "Only about a day or so."

"And you still didn't give it to me?" she asks.

"Well, I..."

"I hate you, Shinji."

Hikaru storms off towards the watermill, as Shinji is left speechless, and Saki nudges you on the shoulder. "Just great... Hikaru's obviously not in a great place. One of us is going to have to talk her back to the group, Ryoji."

>And that person is me, right?
>Shinji, fix things with your sister.
>Satomi, why don't you go comfort your old friend?

>>607212
>And that person is me, right?
Shinji you stupid fucker.

>>607212
>>And that person is me, right?

>>607212
>>And that person is me, right?
Just realized that Hikaru doesn't has anyone reliable for moral support between Shinji and Satomi.

>>607212
>>And that person is me, right?
What would happen if we sent Seishiro after her? It's likely he's the one that wrote letter anyway.

>>607212
>And that person is me, right?
Hooo boy...I want to send Satomi in there, but this may be too soon for her.

Also thank goodness the dice chose this option.

>>607212
>And that person is me, right?
Shinji, why didn't you leave it at home?

>>607212
>it's your turn Saki

File: Hikaru52.png (1.2 MB, 850x1202)

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>And that person is me, right?

"Well... yeah," Saki sighs. "Sorry."

With a solemn shake of the head, you make your way towards the watermill in the same direction Hikaru ran off in. As you reach closer and closer, it begins to rain. You pull your jacket up over your head, as you see Hikaru sitting in a dry spot by the mill. You rush up to her and sit down.

"Heh, that was sudden," you remark, referencing the rain. "Didn't expect it to start pouring like that."

"It's not raining..." Hikaru mutters, looking ahead.

"Oh... water magic, right?"

"Yeah."

Hikaru continues to hold the letter in her hand. "Look, there's a very good chance that letter isn't real-"

"It's not," Hikaru replies. "Nothing about it's right. This isn't even Akio's handwriting... not even Seishiro's either. If anyone wrote this, it was Akio's uncle."

"Oh..." you mutter. "Well then, if you know that, what's got you all upset."

"He could have written."

"What?"

"Akio... if his uncle was able to send out this fake letter, then that means Akio was able to send out a letter himself this whole time... but he didn't..." Hikaru tears the envelope in half with a single swift swipe. "You know what that means? It means either he didn't care enough to write to me the entire time he was up there, or..."

"Or what?"

"Or..." Hikaru sighs. "He's dead, and that message was Naoaki's attempt at covering it up. So I've got that knowledge on my plate... then there's the fact I've lost my library position, my brother is still as deadbeat as ever, there's no hope of me fixing things with Satomi even if I tried, and now my family are... are..."

Hikaru shoves her head into her hands, but doesn't cry or scream. The rain falling all around her are tears enough.

"I've tried so hard to look tough and composed... but it's all just too much..."

>It's not as bad as you make it out to be. There's still hope.
>Akio's still alive. And you know what? I bet he's on his way back now.
>Yeah, life's tough. But are you going to let that get to you? You're stronger than that.
>Hug her.

>>607287
>Hug her.
>It's not as bad as you make it out to be. There's still hope.

>>607287
>Yeah, life's tough.
Can't speak for her brother but at least Satomi might be willing to patch things up eventually. Akio's totally alive too, probably just his way of being a hardass. Something like, "I can't contact her until I'm the strongest."

>>607287
>>It's not as bad as you make it out to be. There's still hope.

>>607287
>It's not as bad as you make it out to be. There's still hope.
>Hug her.

>>607287
>It's not as bad as you make it out to be. There's still hope.

>>607287
>It's not as bad as you make it out to be. There's still hope.
>Akio's still alive. And you know what? I bet he's on his way back now.

>>607287
>Hug her.
>It's not as bad as you make it out to be. There's still hope for you and satomi to fnaly have that lezzbine sexy time

File: Hikaru25.jpg (44 KB, 850x637)

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>It's not as bad as you make it out to be. There's still hope.

"Ooh, there's hope!" Hikaru exclaims sarcastically. "I'm sure if I clap my hands and click my heels together, Akio's gonna appear before me, right?"

"Hikaru..."

"It's my own fault, really..." Hikaru mutters. "I could have been perfectly fine if I just properly shot him down right away and just focused on my library duties. But Akio and that stupid silver tongue of his somehow roped me into a long, long flirting game, like the regular prince of words that he is."

"The what?" you ask.

Hikaru shakes her head. "I don't know, I think I heard that term somewhere. My point is that Akio had me believing that the two of us... well, that there was a real future for me and him. I'm talking marriage, kids, a dog, a storage room to put Seishiro in when he has nowhere else to go, the whole shebang. But I guess hope's all that remains of that."

"Yo."

Upon hearing a voice, you turn your head to see Seishiro awkwardly standing over you, giving a small wave. Great, as if Hikaru's mood couldn't be any worse.

"What do you want?" Hikaru asks.

"Uhh... Hiro sent me over," Seishiro admits. "But still... I heard about what was on that letter. Just so you know, my buddy Aki would never write something like that."

Hikaru nods, rising to her feet as the rain begins to clear up. "I know. You don't have to tell me."

"Well... I did," Seishiro explains. "Because... you looked upset, and... I know Aki wouldn't want you to be like that. I just want to do good by him."

Hikaru pauses, staring at the uncomfortable and unsure Seishiro, before throwing her arms around him, and pulling him in for a tight hug.

"Whoa, what are you doing?!" Seishiro yells. "Y-you're Akio's girl!"

"Keep it in your pants, it's just a hug," Hikaru smiles. "For trying to look out for me."

"Oh..." Seishiro mutters. "No problem."

"And thank you, Ryoji," Hikaru says, smiling in your direction as you rise to your feet. "Nothing you say here can really convince me that things are going to turn around... but it's still nice of you to try."

Hikaru gives you a quick hug, before pulling away and patting you on the shoulder. "Now, I've wasted enough time by moping. People could be in danger, let's move!"

File: Hoshi15.jpg (192 KB, 426x601)

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You return to the rest of the group and press on, soon arriving on the outskirts of the town. As you approach the town of Chishiki, there is a collective sigh of relief to see it still intact. No damaged buildings, the sounds of the daily hustle and bustle, and even a couple vehicles moving in and out.

"D-does this mean it was a false alarm?" Hoshi asks.

"No," Reiji replies. "It just means that if there is an Archdemon around here, they haven't attacked yet. We still need to find them."

Saki nods. "Correct, we'll split into two teams of six. I'll lead one team, Ryoji will lead the other."

"Yeah, and I'll take-"

"I'll take Hoshi," Saki interrupts you.

"Hey!" you protest.

"Sorry Ryoji," Saki explains. "But you've already got The Stranger to sniff out a demon when it's nearby. I'll need Hoshi's magic if my team is going to find anything."

"Okay, you reply. But I get to pick the rest of my team first."

"Agreed," Saki smiles. "You pick five people to come with you, and the rest can join me."

>[SELECT FIVE]
>Hikaru
>Satomi
>Shinji
>Hiro
>Kosuke
>Rini
>Seishiro
>Akira
>Reiji

>>607359
>>Shinji
Knows the way around
>>Hiro
Heals
>>Kosuke
>>Rini
Tag team
>>Seishiro
Long range

>>607355
>I just want to do good by him."
Base Seishiro, coming in with the save.

>>607359
>>Hikaru
>>Satomi
>>Kosuke
>>Rini
>>Seishiro
>>Akira
We get a tank and a nice pair of bonus buddies.

>>607359
>Hikaru
>Shinji
>Hiro
>Kosuke
>Rini

>>607371
>5
Whoops. Drop Satomi then.

>>607359
>Taking Hoshi
>Losing our +15 magic modifier
SAKI

>Hiro
We need a healer plus fuck you Sakmeister.
>Seishiro
Need a ranged fighter.
>Shinji
Knows his way around plus he has good combat stats.
>Kosuke and Rini
Good combat stats from each plus they have a +10 modifier.

>>607379
>>607359
sure lest go with this
the sakmeister inded

>>607359
>Kosuke
>Rini
>Shinji
>Hiro
>Seishiro

Man this is a very dicey scenario. I don't like having to split with the crew we had, but I think this is the best combo for BOTH parties.

>>607379
Its okay, I bet Satomi can fashion a healing potion. Or Hikaru's water magic could heal. That's usually how it works on the elemental stage right?

Calling for;
>Shinji
>Hiro
>Kosuke
>Rini
>Seishiro
Writing now

>>607400
I mean that's how it works in Banished Quest, I don't know about the others

File: Nishi07.jpg (430 KB, 928x992)

430 KB JPG

"Shinji, you know the roads, right?" you ask.

"Yes," her replies in a matter of fact tone.

"Good. Lead us to the main street. The town square. Wherever has the most people and is most susceptible to casualties should a demon attack occur."

Shinji nods and presses ahead, leading the rest of your group, from now on to be named the A-team regardless of what Saki says to dispute it, into the centre of the town. There's a lot of people in the middle of town. You must have caught them during a busy hour... which is real bad, since any one of these people could be a demon in disguise.

"What about it Stranger, you smell anything?" you ask.

"I'm picking up on something all right... demon power, dead ahead of you. And this one's familiar..."

He isn't kidding. As you look ahead, you see a familiar young blonde girl. Nishi you believe she was called... one of the two demons who interrupted your date with Saki. And yet, here she was, several towns over, in regular clothing... buying fruit from a stall? No way.

She catches a glimpse of your group among the crowd. Her eyes widen as they meet yours, and she prepares to break out into sprint.

"Dammit..." you mutter. "This could get messy. Try to get people to move indoors!"

Seishiro pauses for a moment, wondering how to get people to flee from the scene... before remembering that he has guns, which he readily fires into the air, causing a panic.

Kosuke shakes his head, and considering that Seishiro had no plan for a follow-up to such a ridiculous act that has set everyone into a worried frenzy, finds the best spot to stand upon as he addresses the crowd. "People! Lock yourselves inside your homes! The streets are not safe, not with the raging tornado that's headed this way! Get inside and stay inside!"

Somehow, the people listen to Kosuke, as they all run into their homes, and you begin to chase Nishi, who is attempting her escape.

>Roll-

"Oof!" Nishi squeals as she trips over herself, falling flat on her face, allowing you to catch up. Huh... that ought to do it.

"Ow... my nose..." Nishi whines as she picks herself off the ground. You walk within a few feet of her and she jumps. "Gah! What are you doing here! You shouldn't be here!"

"I could say the same thing," you reply. "We're tracking down a demon. I take it that's you?"

"Wha?!" Nishi gasps. "No! I'm tracking down a demon myself! I'm perfectly innocent!"

"You and your friend attacked me during my date a while back!" you protest.

"Oh yeah... whoopsie daisy!" she laughs. "I guess I'm gonna have to fight my way out of this one, aren't I?"

Nishi leaps back, as she summons her huge scythe, and your team, ready their weapons.

>[SELECT AN ACTION FOR EACH CHARACTER]
>Ryoji
>Shinji
>Hiro
>Kosuke
>Rini
>Seishiro

>>607456
>Ryoji
Use his Skill and throw some dirt or fruit in her face to distract her.
>Shinji
Stand back and get ready to block Nishi if she tries to escape or attack Hiro.
>Hiro
Use his shields to try and box Nishi in.
>Kosuke
Go on the offensive with Rini.
>Rini
Go on the offensive with Kosuke.
>Seishiro
Stay close to Hiro to defend him while firing at Nishi from range.

>>607456
>Ryoji
Start with some basic punches to get into range before we start dirty fighting
>Shinji
Taking the tank roll, look for a way in past her scythe range and start battling
>Hiro
Set up a shield on Shinji, it possible, keeping distant
>Kosuke
Start flanking and trying to hamstring Nishi
>Rini
Similar for flanking, but look to throw a sucker punch
>Seishiro
Take some shots at Nishi.

>>607456
>>607485
This sounds good

>>607456
>>Ryoji
Fight dirty
>>Shinji
Block her off
>>Hiro
Shield and heal
>>Kosuke
>>Rini
Fuck her up
>>Seishiro
Pew pew

Calling for
>>Ryoji
>Use his Skill and throw some dirt or fruit in her face to distract her.
>>Shinji
>Stand back and get ready to block Nishi if she tries to escape or attack Hiro.
>>Hiro
>Use his shields to try and box Nishi in.
>>Kosuke
>Go on the offensive with Rini.
>>Rini
>Go on the offensive with Kosuke.
>>Seishiro
>Stay close to Hiro to defend him while firing at Nishi from range.

Roll 6d100 please, best of 3.

Rolled 57, 72, 95, 64, 99, 33 = 420 (6d100)

>>607506

Rolled 83, 58, 31, 84, 39, 7 = 302 (6d100)

>>607506
AAAAA

Rolled 63, 60, 27, 64, 72, 36 = 322 (6d100)

>>607506

Rolled 69, 23, 28, 95, 27, 1 = 243 (6d100)

>>607506

>>607507
>>607509
>>607511
Ryoji - 83
Shinji - 72
Hiro - 95
Kosuke - 84
Rini - Fucking 99
Seishiro - 36

So Seishiro drops his guns and Rini punches Nishi's head off.

>>607517
Looks like some people ate their wheaties today. Someone else ate Cocoa Puffs...

Poor Tomato farmer though. He ust wants to sell his wares.

>>607535
Breakfast of champs, mang.

I like Cocoa Puffs, though...

>>607548
Would you say your, coocoo for cocoa puffs?
"i don't even follow this quest but I refused to pass up this moment

File: Nishi05.jpg (90 KB, 810x1250)

90 KB JPG

>Ryoji: 83 + 10
>Shinji: 72 + 3
>Hiro: 95 - 2
>Kosuke: 84 +12
>Rini: 99 + 15
>Seishiro: 36 + 3

Thinking on your feet, you grab a piece of fruit from nearby stall and launch it at Nishi. It seems the girl didn't expect you to pull off something like that, as the tomato hits its target, hitting Nishi in the face... or rather, the eyes. "Ow, that stings!" Nishi complains. She floats off her feet, and flies through the group, targeting Hiro with her scythe. She must be able to sense his healing powers, and knows to attack him first. Luckily, Shinji readies himself, preparing to block her assault. Seishiro too is firing upon Nishi, but none of his shots seem to hit as Nishi dodges and weaves in mid-air. You take note of how familiar she is with her own demon powers, as if she's had them for ages. She's a fast learner, no doubt.

Shinji blocks the first attack with the scythe, but Nishi is able to re-position her weapon during the clashing of blades, digging the scythe underneath Shinji's sword, before swiping up, launching Shinji's weapon out of his hand and careening skywards. She kicks Shinji back, who collides into Seishiro, knocking the both of them over like bowling pins. She raises her scythe to attack Hiro, but Hiro takes advantage of the few precious seconds of defence he received, raising his shields, knocking Nishi back. He then focuses his shields on boxing Nishi in, keeping her trapped just long enough for Kosuke and Rini to charge.

As they approach, Hiro breaks the shield before it begins to drain too much energy from him, as Nishi is bombarded by the delinquent couple. Kosuke swings with his sword, giving a slash to the arm of Nishi, while Rini winds her fist back. "I'm going to punch your face into dust!" Rini yells angrily, before pretty much doing just that. Rini's fist meets the centre of Nishi's face, and the demon girls is sent flying several dozen feet through the air and into a wall.

"Owwee..." Nishi mumbles as she crawls from the dust of the wall that has collapsed in around her. "You people are mean!"

"You were going to terrorise this town!" Rini fires back.

"No I wasn't!" Nishi replies, before pointing behind you, "He was!"

File: Yami02.jpg (133 KB, 473x723)

133 KB JPG

You turn around, to see a boy in a dark jacket standing atop one of the rooftops.

"Hey folks!" the boy calls out, giving a smirk and a wave. "Seems you've been on the look for an Archdemon! Well... look no further! The man of the hour has arrived!"

You turn around to see that Nishi has already disappeared. Damn it.

"Stranger, I thought you only sensed one Archdemon?" you ask.

"I did! This guy... he must have been hiding it somehow, but now... dammit, he's one of the twelve, alright..."

The demon leaps from the building, performing a flashy twirl as he lands gently on his feet. "You mindless, dirt-eating humans can call me Yami. As you can probably tell by the amazing aura I'm giving off, I have harnessed the ultimate power!"

He stretches out his arms dramatically as he speaks. Dammit, this guy is like if Akio's ego and Isamu's flair had a baby... and that baby also happened to be a demon god.

"I know, I know!" Yami smirks. "You have plenty of questions about me. The man, the myth, the... God. But I'm a busy god, so I only have time for one. Whichever one of you ants is supposed to be the leader ant, please speak up. You all look alike to me."

>What kind of demon are you?
>What do you want?
>Is this the host or the demon talking?
>Are you ready to die, demon?