File: Saki03.png (1.45 MB, 1050x1485)

1.45 MB PNG

“So this is the place?”

You place down your bag for a second to look around at the rest of the group. Damn... almost the entire school came down to the town for this. You recall it was originally Chihiro's suggestion; a nice relaxing day in the hot springs in the wake of the tournament and the fight against Hermes. Saki was initially hesitant, as you expected her to be in regards to an idea that involved a lot of public nudity, but Chihiro eventually talked her down, convincing her that it would be good morale for the group.

“Yep! Here we are!” Saki smiles. “The Dakugeto inn, known for it's amazing hot springs!”

“Every inn says that...” you mumble. “I don't know why we lugged it over here anyway. The school has a hot spring.”

“Yes, but it's mixed bathing only!” Saki replies. “We can't be having mixed bathing! It's indecent and distracting... not to mention lewd! I run a tight ship, Ryoji! Not a lewd one!”

“Sure you don't, Sak...”

“Of course...” Chihiro smirks. “This inn also does have a mixed baths...”

“But we won't be using them,” Saki stresses, eyeing Chihiro up. “Don't be getting any funny ideas! This day isn't about you being obscene!”

“Well, the mixed bathing is so much more simple than peeking on the boys...” Chihiro smirks, before thinking. “Then again... it's not as thrilling.”

Saki quietly grumbles, as you're soon approached by some of the guys from your class, including a rather glum looking Akio.

“Excited?” Kosuke asks.

“I'd be more excited if Saki and I were sharing a bath,” you explain. “But that'll take a world of convincing.”

“Tough break,” Kosuke replies. “Rini and I are probably going to sneak off to the mixed area at some point in the night. Newlywed privileges and all that.”

“Lucky you...” Akio mutters.

You raise an eyebrow. “What's wrong with you?”

“I screwed up big time,” Akio explains. “I was busy training, and I forgot me and Hikaru's six month anniversary date, and... she got mad, and now we're kinda on a break right now.”

“He means Hikaru broke up with him,” Seishiro explains.

“No she didn't!” Akio snaps. “It's just... it's complicated, okay?”

Seishiro shakes his head. “It's okay man, you can take this time to relax and forget about her. Spend some times with the guys, we can swap stories, wash each-other's backs, it'll be great!”

Chihiro pokes her head into the conversation as well. “Poor Akio, it's such a shame... you and Hikaru were a wonderful couple. But, if need be, I can certainly help set you up with some lovely village girls while we're here, if it helps you get over your slump?”

>Okay guys, lay off him a little.
>You should listen to Seishiro, he is your best pal after all.
>Chihiro's got the right idea, Akio. You should move onto someone new.
>Hey man, it's not too late. You can still make things right with Hikaru.

>>1122892
>>Okay guys, lay off him a little.
Let him go chill his head under a waterfall or something.

>>1122892
>>Okay guys, lay off him a little.

>>1122892
>Okay guys, lay off him a little.
Good to have you running Book

>>1122892
>>Okay guys, lay off him a little.

>>1122892
>>Okay guys, lay off him a little.
>You should still take Seishiro up on that back rub tho

Gonna switch to
>>1122906
from
>>1122899

>>1122906
Switcing to this

>>1122906
I'll also switch to tis

File: Akio11.jpg (724 KB, 600x800)

724 KB JPG

>Okay guys, lay off him a little.
>You should still take Seishiro up on that back rub though

"Yeah!" Seishiro exclaims. "You and I are going to have the time of our lives bro, just hanging out and doing manly things! Who needs chicks, anyway?"

"Seish, you have a girlfriend," Akio points out.

"What?! Who told you that?!"

"Still..." Akio mutters. "I guess you're right, Ryoji. I'm not exactly in the mood for a back-rub, but maybe it's better to spend time with my pal, try to take my mind off all this. I guess I haven't been hanging out with you guys enough."

Akio and Seishiro press on, as after them comes an equally distraught looking Hikaru, accompanied by her brother and Satomi. You suppose they moved at the back of the group so she could avoid Akio. "Hey, are you okay?" you ask as she passes.

"No," Hikaru replies. "But thanks for asking."

And so, the rest of the group makes their way into the inn. You set you back down and find a comfortable chair in the lounge area as you make note of the others getting ready. You really wonder what Akemi plans to use a snorkel for... whatever it is, it won't end well for her. Meanwhile Rini is getting excited at the idea of saying the other girls in various states of undress.

As you remain in your seat and lounge back, waiting for the moment you can dip into the hot baths, you notice another person sitting beside you. Maro.

"Hello Ryoji."

"Hey Maro," you reply. "Long time, no see. I hear you and you Class got crazy strong over the last while."

"Yes..." Maro replies. "Our training and mission schedule has been... rigorous. Lilo has often complained about the strain, though I'm beginning to suspect she plays it up in order to receive back rubs."

"Sounds like her," you reply. "Gotta admit Maro, I missed having you around. You're a cool head among a bunch of crazies... and I say that knowing you have a closet full of the same cowboy hat."

"It's a nice hat." Maro shakes his head. "I'm not sure about this, Ryoji."

"About what?" you ask.

Maro pauses. "Taking this time out. Not monitoring the school. I just have a feeling that something could go very wrong..."

>Don't overthink, the school's a five minute walk from here. It'll be fine.
>You know, if anyone needs to relax, it's you.
>What do you think could go wrong?
>I agree... I've been on edge a lot recently.

>>1122933
>>Don't overthink, the school's a five minute walk from here. It'll be fine.

>>1122933
>"Well, we can't just be fighting all the time. We do need time to rest to get our strength back up."

>>1122933
>>What do you think could go wrong?
What could possibly go wrong? The world exploding due to Moon madness? Nonsense! Villains know better than to attack during break time.

>>1122938
>>1122933
I'll back this

>>1122933
>What do you think could go wrong?
We've got two (2) archdemons and a demidemon here to guard the school now. Things will be fine.

>>1122933
>>Don't overthink, the school's a five minute walk from here. It'll be fine.
We must replace all of his hats with a similar but not exactly the same hat

Rolled 2 (1d3)

>>1122936
>>1122942
>Don't overthink

>>1122938
>>1122940
>"Well, we can't just be fighting all the time. We do need time to rest to get our strength back up."

>>1122941
>>1122939
>What do you think could go wrong?

Rolling to break the tie

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

90 KB JPG

>Well, we can't just be fighting all the time. We do need time to rest to get our strength back up.

"True," Maro replies. "But I still believe we should at least keep up some form of constant vigilance. I don't like the idea of the academy being left unguarded, even on a safe day. We have enemies outside of the Darkworld itself now, so we have to keep careful at all times."

"I agree sir," Shinji replies as he stands directly behind Maro like the loyal soldier that he is. "But I still don't see why you ordered me here, despite my protests."

"You deserve a rest," Maro explains. "More than anyone in our Class. I know you're dedicated to the cause, but you can't neglect your own health. Relax your muscles, spend time with your sister. Wouldn't you like that?"

"Of course, sir..." Shinji mutters. "But guarding the school should have top priority."

Your attention is pulled away for a moment by the chatting of two of your friends. Two that you're very curious on.

"Ah, isn't this refreshing, Miss Arisato!" Isamu exclaims. "Water blessed by the Gods, caressing you beautiful naked skin, oh it's all too much for this hero to bear!"

"Calm down, you goof..." Rei blushes, as she gives Isamu a small whack to the back of the head. "We haven't even gotten into the water yet... a-and you're not gonna see me anyway, unless you peak like a pervert!"

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

156 KB JPG

Rei staggers off as Isamu checks in his bags, followed closely by and Akira who is doing her best not to call attention to herself despite her height and missing arm. You feel bad for her when she notices all the townspeople staring.

"Hey Rei, how's it going?" you ask. "I figured you and Isamu would be trying to sneak into the couple's baths."

"We're not a couple!" a red-faced Rei protests. "T-that kiss during the tournament, it... it was j-just a h-heat of the moment thing, okay? Stop spreading rumours! I don't have any-"

"Ah, I get it," you smirk. "You're all awkward and now you want to wait until a special occasion to ask him out proper. Say, Christmas?"

"What?! No! I mean... maybe, is that so wrong?" Rei crosses her arms. "L-look, I don't have to take this from you! I'm gonna get changed!"

Rei moves to brush past you, but then stops in her tracks, before briefly turning around to hug you tight.

"What's this about?" you ask. "Weren't you pissed with me five seconds ago?"

"Yeah..." Rei mutters. "But I haven't thanked you yet. For being there for me through it all... for being my friend, Ryoji. Things are beginning to look up now."

"No problem Rei," you smile as you ruffle her hair a little. You then turn to Akira. "How are you holding up?"

Akira pauses. "Well... Akemi's first model for my replacement arm was a little... unstable to say the least. Either way, I couldn't wear something with so many wires to the baths, so I had to go without."

"Don't worry Akira!" Akemi smiles as she hops onto the big girls back. "That's just a prototype! The real version will be much better!"

"You really don't have to rush..." Akira points out.

>Doing this for Akira was pretty great of you, Akemi.
>How has it been? Without the arm?
>Do you think you'll still be able to fight, Akira?
>Well, today you can just relax and take your mind off things.

>>1122995
>>How has it been? Without the arm?
Feels kinda insensitive to ask, hope it doesn't sound as bad to her.

>>1122995
>>How has it been? Without the arm?

>>1122995
>>Doing this for Akira was pretty great of you, Akemi.
>>How has it been? Without the arm?

>>1122995
>>>Doing this for Akira was pretty great of you, Akemi.
>>>How has it been? Without the arm?

>>1122995
>>Doing this for Akira was pretty great of you, Akemi.
>>How has it been? Without the arm?

>>1122995
>Doing this for Akira was pretty great of you, Akemi.
>How has it been? Without the arm?

Booker you better allow both. These are not mutually exclusive.

File: Akira03.jpg (464 KB, 930x1169)

464 KB JPG

>Doing this for Akira was pretty great of you, Akemi.
>How has it been? Without the arm?

"Thanks, Ryoji!" Akemi giggles. "Anything for a friend!"

"Indeed..." Akira nods with a small smile. "Akemi has been simply wonderful. As for me... I'll survive. I have to. I always knew that something like this could happen, and that I should always be prepared to adapt."

"And are you adapting?" you ask.

Akira hesitates to answer. "I will. It's just a matter of time. I... I need to get used to this first."

You know that's going to take a while for her. It is a hugely jarring change after all. Akira will put on a brave face, knowing her, but maybe it'll be better to talk to her during a more private moment... well, a private moment outside of the baths, when she has clothes on. That's what you need to do.

Akira moves on, as you decide it's about time to get changed and hop into the springs. As you arrive at the changing area, you notice Kazuma chatting with his sister and his friend Mayu.

"It sucks that we'll be separated for bathing," Kiriko mutters. "I mean, we used to do it all the time as kids! I guess I'll just try to talk to you through the fence."

"It is a shame we cannot converse, Kazuma..." Mayu notes. "Then again... I do not think I could forgive you if you saw my breasts."

Kaz freezes up at that comment, as Kiriko lets out a chuckle. "Oh Mayu, always so blunt!"

More of the guys are pooling into the changing room, and soon another Class 1 kid approaches the entrance. Roka you think he's called.

"Well, come on Mayu!" Kiriko exclaims, taking her friend by the hand. "Time to get naked!"

As the two run off, Kazuma turns to Roka, who seems to have picked up on the tail end of that conversation. "Hey, your nose is bleeding."

"Shut up!" Roka snaps immediately, as he hurriedly wipes his nose. "I'll break your face if you talk to me again!"

"What was that about?" you ask as Roka runs into the changing room.

Kaz shrugs. "That big moron likes my sister. It's weird," he explains.

>I see. So how are you holding up, kouhai?
>Ah, so how you like that Mayu girl, right?
>I can see it. Don't try to stand in the way of love, kouhai.

>>1123035
>>I can see it. Don't try to stand in the way of love, kouhai.

>>1123035
>I see. So how are you holding up, kouhai?
This will lose out. But I still would like to be softer on him.

>>1123035
>>Ah, so how you like that Mayu girl, right?

>>1123035
>>I can see it. Don't try to stand in the way of love, kouhai.
>>She needs someone more... stable than you to lean on.

>>1123035
>>I see. So how are you holding up, kouhai?
>>Ah, so how you like that Mayu girl, right?

>>1123035
>I can see it. Don't try to stand in the way of love, kouhai.

>>1123035
>>I see. So how are you holding up, kouhai?
>>Ah, so how you like that Mayu girl, right?
Bite the bait

>>1123035
>>I see. So how are you holding up, kouhai?
>>Ah, so how you like that Mayu girl, right?
Light teasing, nothing to serious.

>>1123035
>>Ah, so how you like that Mayu girl, right?
Tease Kaz

File: Onsen.jpg (130 KB, 1280x720)

130 KB JPG

>Ah, so how you like that Mayu girl, right?

Kazuma's eyes widen, as he jerks his head back between the girls entering the changing room and you. "Whoa, it's not like that! Me and Mayu are just friends!"

"Uh-huh," you smirk. "Seems you've got a lot of girls around you who are just friends."

"I mean it!" Kaz exclaims. "I don't feel that way about anyone, okay?"

"Heh, just teasing you kouhai," you reply, as you poke Kaz on the forehead, and make your way into the changing area. You're quick to strip down and pull your towel from your bag and wrap it around your waist as you step out into the hot springs area. It's so steamy and warm, just as it should be. You're not the first into the water, as you note a few of your friends already relaxing within. With the rest of the guys coming out, you don't hesitate to dip in and make your way next to Kosuke.

"Ah, now this is relaxing..." you mutter, as you shut your eyes and clear your mind.

"Indeed it is..." Stranger mutters. "This is the first piece of proper relaxation we've had in a while. Saki's great, but she can't give a backrub to save her life."

"Umm... if it's okay with you, I think I'm just going to keep looking away..." Nina mumbles.

"Worried about modesty? You're a spirit!"

"I know, but... I don't want to feel like I'm peeking."

"If we were in the women's section, I wouldn't shy away!"

"I know exactly what you would do..."

Kosuke sinks lower into the water, keeping his usual deadpan expression. "Yeah, it sucks that the mixed baths are closed until later. I guess private time with the wife will have to wait. So, what's our first order of business?"

>Nothing. I'm just going to lie back and relax.
>Listen in on what the girls have to say over the fence.
>Should we try to sneak a peek, or is it too early for that?
>Water-fight?

>>1123113
>>Water-fight?
FUCK DIGNITY AND AGE
WATER FIGHT

>>1123113
>>Nothing. I'm just going to lie back and relax.

>>1123113
>>Nothing. I'm just going to lie back and relax.
Have a chat with someone and see what's been going on.

>>1123113
>Water-fight?
The only sensible option.

>>1123113
>>Listen in on what the girls have to say over the fence.
>>Should we try to sneak a peek, or is it too early for that?

>>1123113
>>Nothing. I'm just going to lie back and relax.

>>1123113
>>Listen in on what the girls have to say over the fence.

>>1123113
>>Listen in on what the girls have to say over the fence

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>1123118
>>1123120
>>1123126
>Nothing. I'm just going to lie back and relax.

>>1123123
>>1123127
>>1123150
>Listen in on what the girls have to say over the fence

Rolling to break the tie

>>1123174
FUCKING

File: Rei_Hot Springs02.jpg (30 KB, 380x320)

30 KB JPG

>Listen in on what the girls have to say over the fence

"What, you think we're gonna find out some secrets?" Kosuke asks. "You know Rini tells me everything, right?"

"I'm just pretty curious," you explain. "Besides, I gotta make sure your wife isn't picking on my girlfriend. You know how Rini can get with her."

"Saki's her favourite gal, can you blame her?" Kosuke points out.

The two of you make your way over to the fence and place your ears close in order to hear what the girls are currently talking about.

"Whoa!" you hear Rini exclaim. "Saki, did you just get bigger?"

"W-what?!" Saki exclaims. "I've been minding my weight, and if anything I thought I was becoming more lean and toned and-"

"No, your chest!" Rini exclaims. "Yours are almost as huge as mine now!"

"Oh... thanks, I guess? I mean, Ryoji did have to go out and buy a new set of bras for me because the last one's didn't-GAH!"

"Hey, stop groping Kobashi in public!" Rei yells. "Besides, it's not even that impressive!"

"A lot bigger than yours, Blondie!" Rini exclaims. "Oh... Sayeka, were you always that stacked?"

"Please, no..." Sayeka lowly mumbles.

You hear Rei grumble, as Chihiro pipes up. "So... shall I be the first to peek on the boys?"

"Chihiro, no!" Saki protests.

"Oh, but my dear Saki! It's a girl's duty to know! Don't you care to compare sizes of our male counterparts. Could it be my darling Makoto who comes out on top? The lovely Ryoji? Or the noble Isamu?"

You hear a splash, as Rei bursts from the water. "Don't you dare peek on Isamu!"

"Ohoho! You sound like you're curious~! Let's go!"

"W-what? Hey, let go of me!"

"Oh crap..." you mutter. "Chihiro's coming this way. Quick, act natural!"

You and Kosuke proceed to cannonball back into the water. Not exactly natural, but you were in a hurry.

"Phew, that was close..." you mutter. "They would have thought we were peeking. Chihiro would never let us hear the end of it..."

"Yeah, big risk," Kosuke mutters. "Well, now Chihiro is forcing Rei to spy on us."

>Let's stay perfectly still. Try not to reveal anything.
>We should probably warn Isamu.
>Let's just ignore it. Chihiro wants to spy? Let her see it all.

>>1123226
>>Let's just ignore it. Chihiro wants to spy? Let her see it all.

>>1123226
>>Let's just ignore it. Chihiro wants to spy? Let her see it all.

>>1123226
>>Let's just ignore it. Chihiro wants to spy? Let her see it all.
Ryoji is not ashamed.

>>1123226
>>Let's just ignore it. Chihiro wants to spy? Let her see it all.
ohboy. Sayeka was spared from Rini though, good thing.

>>1123226
>Let's just ignore it. Chihiro wants to spy? Let her see it all.
>Give them a show

>>1123226
>Let's just ignore it. Chihiro wants to spy? Let her see it all.
>Man Kosuke were you always that big? (In the worse possible acting)

>>1123256
>selling out the bro
Madman, worst kind of person.

>>1123262
Meant it more as a way to mess with Chihiro.

File: Rei_Hot Springs.png (437 KB, 600x800)

437 KB PNG

>Let's just ignore it. Chihiro wants to spy? Let her see it all.

"A bold strategy," Kosuke points out. "But I'll take your word for it, leader."

With a confident smirk, you stand up from the pool of water, as your towel falls from around your waist. You turn around, and immediately hear a gasp from Chihiro. "My word! Saki, have you been hiding this the entire time! Oh, you lucky girl!"

You can't see her, but you can feel Saki's intense blushing from over here. She's probably already sunk her head below the waters. You laugh slightly, Chihiro's always been desperate for a moment like this, might as well give her what she wants.

"I... is she spying on us?!" Makoto from Class 1 gasps as he blushes and turns away from the fence. "That... that's obscene! The act of a succubus!"

"Oh, now there's a lovely tush, he's so delightfully cute!" Chihiro exclaims, not caring that you can all hear her.

Soon, Isamu, being the clueless dope that he is, decides to make his way over to the fence. "Why, is that Chihiro Toriyama I hear! My fellow admirer of the fair bodies of the opposite sex!"

"Ah, my dear Isamu!" Chihiro exclaims. "How good to see... so much of you. Isn't that right, Rei?"

"Ah, Miss Arisato!" Isamu chuckles. "Have you taken to the art of peeking on us fine gods among men?"

"Isamu, stop!" Rei pleads from the other side of the fence. "Chihiro's holding my eyes open! Put it away! Please!"

"As you wish!" Isamu says as he turns around.

"Ohoho! Look at those buns!" Chihiro laughs.

"Chihiro, I'm going to kill you!" Rei snaps, as you then hear the two struggling and a splash at they fall into the pool of water. Well, you suppose the peep show is over.

You stretch out, before sitting back into the water.

"Well, that was... something," Ken mutters as he sits next to you.

Yeah, it was. Whatever, you suppose you should spend your time talking to one of the guys.

>Ken
>Kosuke
>Akio
>Seishiro
>Hiro
>Sora
>Kazuma

>>1123333
>>Ken
>>Kosuke
>>Akio
>>Seishiro
>>Hiro
>>Sora
>>Kazuma
All of them.

>>1123333
>>Hiro

>>1123333
>>Akio
He needs us

>>1123333
>>Akio
>>Seishiro
They should be nearby and it's finally a chance to grab them by the scruff of their necks and sit them down for a talking to. I feel like there might be a better choice here, opinion wise, but I think this is fine.

>>1123338
Serious now, changing to this.

>>1123338
This one

>>1123333
>Akio
>Seishiro
Isamu's got the butt, Booker's got the quads.

>>1123333
>>>Hiro

File: Akio09.jpg (167 KB, 800x1136)

167 KB JPG

>Akio
>Seishiro

You decide to check in on Akio to make sure he's doing okay, and to make sure that Seishiro isn't making anything worse. You make your way over to the end of the pool where you see Akio sitting under a small waterfall, the water pouring on his head as Seishiro tries to his best of efforts to cheer him up.

"Come on, man!" Seishiro exclaims. "Don't be so down! We're in a hot springs! We can do some classic male bonding! Water-fight, wash each-other's backs! We could compare sizes-"

"I'm not in the mood, Seish."

Seishiro frowns as he sees you approach. "Hey bro, Aki's still in a funk."

You sit down next to Akio, as he continues to keep his head under the waterfall.

"How are you holding up?" you ask.

Akio doesn't answer for a moment, before eventually piping up. "I screwed it up, Ryoji... I lost her."

"Don't give up that easy," you reply.

"Ryoji... I have to train, to get stronger, to keep her safe... but my constant training drove her away... so I don't know what to do. Honestly... I'm beginning to remind myself of a certain uncle..."

"Oh come on Aki!" Seishiro exclaims. "You're nothing like that stodgy Akihito!"

"Not that uncle..." Akio mutters. "Naoaki. All he ever cared about was being the strongest, and he never cared who he hurt in the process. I... I think spending all that time with him... the big bastard started to rub off on me in the worst way. Now, Hikaru hates my guts."

"Didn't she always hate your guts?" you point out.

Akio shakes his head. "Yeah... but in a good way. Now, she can't look me in the eye anymore. I don't know what I'm going to do."

"Here's what you need to do," Seishiro replies. "Move on. Look, Hikaru and I had our differences, bro... I actually started to like her towards the end. But... some things were never meant to be, you know? You should go back to the single life, meet some new girls, focus on moving on and having fun. Who knows? Maybe you and the bookworm can still be friends?"

>Akio, you should focus on training. It's clearly what you want.
>If you love Hikaru, you should fight to keep her. You know what you need to do.
>You should listen to Seishiro. He has your best interests at heart.

>>1123428
>If you love Hikaru, you should fight to keep her. You know what you need to do.

>>1123428
>>Akio, you should focus on training. It's clearly what you want.
But
>>If you love Hikaru, you should fight to keep her. You know what you need to do.

>>1123428
>>If you love Hikaru, you should fight to keep her. You know what you need to do.

>>1123428
>>If you love Hikaru, you should fight to keep her. You know what you need to do.
Now lets talk about Seish. Fuck is up with that guy.

>>1123437
he's in the closet has feelings for his best friend who he knows is straight and is forcing himself to hide these feelings

>>1123428
>If you love Hikaru, you should fight to keep her. You know what you need to do.
Here's a hint, it's not fucking training.

>>1123437
Shoot him the death glare.

>>1123441
But Anon it's just two bro's washing each others back, comparing dick sizes and occasionally giving each other a bro job. There's nothing gay about that.

>>1123428
>You know who else had this problem
>Vegeta
>Know who is pretty cool
>Vegeta
>Know how Vegeta solved this problem
>Get her pregnant and then train with the baby

>>1123428
>>You should listen to Trick and run Kayfabe Quest. He has your best interests at heart.

>>1123531
Feck off

>>1123533
Anon pls no bully, he's probably nice.

>>1123531
>Superkick Trick

>>1123539
Trick is an ass

>>1123550
And butts are nice.
-Kemi

>>1123553
Clever.

>>1123531
Fuck off trick
>>1123539
Anon trust me I know Trick personally
He is one of the worst people that exist.

>>1123562
Anon pls, we just confirmed that he is a butt and butts are nice.

File: Shinji.png (304 KB, 489x750)

304 KB PNG

>If you love Hikaru, you should fight to keep her. You know what you need to do.

"Yeah, I do..." Akio mutters. "Thinking about it all, it just so obvious... but I just don't know where to start in making it up to her. It has to be something big, something grand... throw her a party?"

"No, it doesn't need to be big," you explain. "In fact, you should start out small. Make her dinner or something, just spend a night with her, without putting it aside. That's all you need to do."

"I guess..." Akio replies. "I'm just so caught up in my own head that it just doesn't feel that simple. Right... I need to do this."

"Akio..." a voice calls out, as you turn to see Shinji approaching.

"Oh, what do you want?" Akio groans. "I'm already hating myself enough for how I treated your sister. If you want to try and beat me up, save it for another time."

"No," Shinji mutters, as he hunkers down by Akio. "You love my sister... I understand that. And more than anyone, I understand feeling guilty about not being there for her."

"Oh..." Akio nods. "I guess you do."

"Good," Shinji replies, placing a hand on Akio's back. "Now, here's what we're going to do... I'm going to take Hikaru for a picnic, and you're going to be there... okay?"

"Okay."

You give a small smile, happy to know that Akio is getting help on the right path, as you stand up to move. As you do, Seishiro stands up and follows you.

"Hey bro, can I ask you something?"

"Shoot."

"Look... I never really liked Aki being with the bookworm," Seishiro explains. "I don't know if you noticed... but I was happy at the idea of seeing him single."

"Right..." you mutter.

"But... I don't know, I also feel really bad?" Seishiro continues. "I don't know, it's all really confusing. You know about feelings and stuff, why is this happening? I want my buddy to be single, but I have this weird feeling in my stomach when I see him like this..."

>It's because you want your best friend to be happy.
>It's because you're in love with Akio.
>It's guilt. You feel guilty, Seishiro.

>>1123574
>>It's guilt. You feel guilty for not running Kayfabe Quest, Booker.

>>1123574
>>It's because you want your best friend to be happy.

>>1123574
>>It's because you're in love with Akio.
We need to make him confront it

File: HAPPENING.gif (973 KB, 312x213)

973 KB GIF

>>1123574
>It's because you're in love with Akio.
IT'S TIME

>>1123574
>>It's because you're in love with Akio.
You're a faggot Seish.

>>1123574
>It's because you want your best friend to be happy.

>>1123574
>It's because you're in love with Akio.

>>1123574
>>It's because you're in love with Akio.
Oooh boi this is going to be an awkward talk

>>1123574
>>It's because you want your best friend to be happy.

File: Concordia07.png (614 KB, 790x800)

614 KB PNG

>It's because you're in love with Akio.

Seishiro bursts into laughter. "Whaaaat?! Very funny, bro! I think you meant to say that I love my bro, which I do!"

"No," you reply nonchalantly. "I meant that you're in love with Akio. You want to be with him. Romantically."

Seishiro nervously chuckles. "Heh, come on! That's dumb, who told you that?"

"We all know," you reply. "You couldn't have made it less obvious. There's nothing to be ashamed of in admitting it, but I don't think Akio's gonna return those feelings."

Seishiro scratches the back of his head. "O-okay, the jokes getting a little less funny now. Me and Aki are just bros, best pals, we'll be together forever and... and... oh no..."

Seishiro's eyes widen in shock as he comes to an intense realisation. Before you get another chance to speak with him, however, you are interrupted by... a portal opening. Oh crap.

Out steps Alice and... Condordia? Alice is decked in a bath towel, while the demon girl hasn't stripped of her armour. It's a good thing you guys are the only ones in the springs right now, it would be bad news if some old dude from the village saw that.

"And this," Alice explains, still in teacher mode. "Is what humans call a hot spring!"

"Hot... spring..." Concordia mutters, taking notes. "And what exactly is the purpose of this, master?"

"Well, that's easy!" Alice explains. "It's a bath where you can get clean in hot water while you take a refreshing nap!"

"I see... another location made for sleep," Concordia notes. "I must say master, that list is becoming quite extensive."

Alice slips into the pool and begins to snooze. Concordia dips her toe in the water, recoiling as she does. "Oh, so cold!"

"Alice," you raise and eyebrow. "This is the guy's section."

"It's easier to sleep here!" Alice explains, as she dozes off. Concordia looks down at her new apparent teacher, before turning to you.

"Stranger," she calls out. "I require the guidance of another god."

"It's hard thinking of you as a god, considering your personality."

"She was talking about me!"

"So was I."

Concordia approaches you. "I do not wish to disturb my master's slumber. Am I to remove my armour before stepping into this freezing water? Or am I do enter wearing my full armour?"

>Take off the armour, are you stupid?
>Just do what feels right.
>You shouldn't be here at all. Some human's gonna see you.
>I see you're adjusting well to this world.

>>1123712
>>Take off the armour, are you stupid?
>>I see you're adjusting well to this world.
>Also, wear this towel after you're done taking that off.

>>1123712
>>Just do what feels right.

>>1123712
>>Take off the armour, are you stupid?
>I see you're adjusting well to this world.
>extensive list of sleeping locations
Alice best teacher. Also rip Serious talk with Seish.

>>1123716
You're too nice Anon.

>>1123712
>Stay in full armour in case of attacks
>You must always remain vigilant Concordia
Maximum trolling

>>1123734
Nevermind, this wins out. Concordia is for bullying.

>>1123716
This please.

>>1123716
Vote for this.

>>1123716
This
plz no bully
diplomatic relations

File: Akemi07.png (541 KB, 700x700)

541 KB PNG

>Take off the armour, are you stupid?
>I see you're adjusting well to this world.
>Also, wear this towel after you're done taking that off.

You hand a towel over to Concordia, and she stares at it, confused. "What is the purpose of this?"

"To cover yourself up after removing your clothes."

"I see..." Concordia notes. "I fail to see the point. There is no way this towel would be able to wrap around my chest."

"You're telling me!" a rowdy Taka yells. "Look at that pair! If I knew all demons looked like that, I'd-"

"Stop it Taka," Shinji mutters. "Leave the girl alone."

As Concordia begins to shed her armour, Taka can't take his eyes away... in fact, more than a few of the guys are staring. Equal parts attraction and curiosity, no doubt. Before she can take it all off, however, you notice a stir under the pool of water, as a figure splashes up from above. Akemi, of course.

"Bah!" Akemi giggles. "Refreshing!"

"What the... Akemi!" Ken protests. "Why are you here now?!"

Akemi adjusts her snorkel and goggles and gives a smile. "I don't know! Looks like I wandered into the wrong bath! Haha!"

Everyone is flustered, but none comment on Akemi's lack of clothing, considering that it's a common state for her.

"Monkey, you need to go to the girl's side," Kosuke mutters.

"Oh... right!" Akemi salutes, as she makes her way towards the bamboo fence separating the two baths... and begins trying to climb it... in the nude. This would be the single most embarrassing moment of anyone's life, except for Akemi. She's completely oblivious. At least most of the guys are looking away out of politeness.

"Not like that!" Ken replies. "You can't just climb the fence!"

"I think I can!" Akemi exclaims. "I just have to believe in myse-whoa!"

Akemi falls back... pulling the entire fence down with her. That would be bad enough, but as the fence comes down, it reveals something quite incriminating... many of the girls, all clearly in the process of peeking on your group. Chihiro, Rei, Kiriko, Rini, Lilo, Nanami, Saki... even Hoshi?

File: Spoiler Image (93 KB, 850x850)

93 KB JPG

"R-Ryoji!" Saki panics. "I-I wasn't spying on you! I swear!"

"Hoshi?" Reiji asks, moving desperately to cover himself with a towel. In reply, Hoshi just freezes up and starts crying in panic.

"Whoa, were you spying on us, fly?" Roka asks, as the ninja turns red in the face.

"M-Mayu?!" Kazuma exclaims, as from his position he can see his friend bathing once more.

Mayu simply turns her head in a casual manner. "I will never forgive you for this."

>Later

Shortly after, the baths descended into chaos, and you all returned to the inn's interior while the fence is re-erected.

"I'm sorry, Ryoji..." Saki mutters. "I knew what I was doing was wrong, but... Chihiro tempted me. Put lewd thoughts into my head, and..."

"It's okay," you smirk. "Gotta say Sak, I'm surprised you were the one spying on me and not the other way around. Quite the delinquent thing to do, don't you think?"

"W-what?!" Saki protests. "No, I'm not a delinquent! Ryojiiiii!"

You chuckle to yourself as Saki continues to panic.

>You know, the mixed baths should be open right about now...
>Okay, let's try not to peek on each-other next time.
>The baths were fun, but I think it's time we retired for the night.

>>1123868
>You know, the mixed baths should be open right about now...
It is time...

>>1123868
>>You know, the mixed baths should be open right about now...

>>1123868
>You know, the mixed baths should be open right about now...

>>1123868
>>You know, the mixed baths should be open right about now...
>retiring for the night
Who would ever do such a boring thing! Time for nice and chill conversations with whoever isn't banging in there.

>>1123868
>>You know, the mixed baths should be open right about now...
TEASE AND LEWD

File: Spoiler Image (112 KB, 640x800)

112 KB JPG

>You know, the mixed baths should be open right about now...

"Ryoji!" Saki gasps. "What could you be implying! I expressly forbid the use of the mixed bathing section! What kind of leader would I be if I didn't follow my own rules!"

"Come on, Sak..." you mutter. "This isn't a lewd thing. I... just want to spend some more time with you while we're here. And I don't want to have to talk to you through a fence. I want to spend real time with you, because that's when I can relax the best."

"Oh, Ryoji..." Saki ponders for a moment. "Darn it... you really know how to wear me down. Okay... we'll spend some time in the mixed bathing area. But only some!"

"That's fine with me," you reply. "Now, let's make it quick, before any of the other couples get the same idea."

You shouldn't have been surprised that you weren't the first couple to have the idea, because as soon as you arrive in the mixed bathing area, you're treated to the sight of Kosuke and Rini making out in the water, without even any towels to cover them.

"A-are... are you two...?!"

"If you can't see it under the water, it's not happening!" Rini yells at Saki, before turning back to Kosuke and locking lips with him again with a low moan.

"Ryojiiii! I am not doing that in public!" Saki protests.

You smirk as you take her hand. "Don't expect you to. Let's find a nice spot."

You and Saki climb into the pool of water, as she nestles in close to you. Before long the small nibblekisses on your neck begin, and you find your hand sliding down her back into the waters below. "I have to admit, Chihiro had a wonderful idea..." Saki giggles. "Maybe I should get her a gift for the next tea party... then again, that won't be until after Christmas... so an extra Christmas gift?"

"I'm sure a simple thanks will suit her just fine," you reply. "She's already rich, anyway. Material gifts mean less than... you know, friendship."

"Right!" Saki laughs, before she notices another patron of the mixed baths. Someone who has managed to hide themselves away into a corner, curling themselves into a ball.

"Akira?" Saki asks. "Are you okay?"

Akira looks up from crying into her knees, and shakes her head. "It... it hurts..."

"Oh... your arm..." you reply.

"Not just that," Akira replies. "But Rei... she's with him now, and soon I'll be left behind, won't I?"

>Of course not. Rei'll still be your friend, no matter what.
>You should be happy for Rei. She's in a great place right now.
>Hug Akira.

>>1123975
>>Hug Akira.
Nude hugging Akira, I love it

>>1123975
>Of course not. Rei'll still be your friend, no matter what.
>Hug Akira.
DAMN YOU DICE GODS

>>1123975
>>Of course not. Rei'll still be your friend, no matter what.
>>Hug Akira.
HUG THE SAD

>>1123975
>>Of course not. Rei'll still be your friend, no matter what.
>>Hug Akira.

>>1123975
>Of course not. Rei'll still be your friend, no matter what.
>Hug Akira.
This is the drama I was looking forward to.

File: Saki_HotSpring.png (1.03 MB, 715x1000)

1.03 MB PNG

>Of course not. Rei'll still be your friend, no matter what.
>Hug Akira.

You reach in and hug Akira, and Saki joins in, the two of you squeezing your saddened friend tight.

"I..." Akira begins.

"Akira, it's okay. Just because Rei and Isamu are getting together doesn't mean you'll be left behind. You're Rei's best friend, Isamu's your friend to. You'll always be around for them. Maybe not every time they're out on a date, but that's just a part of life."

"I know..." Akira mutters. "But-"

"Akira," Saki chimes in. "For a long time Rei was like a sick baby bird. And you, being the amazing and loving friend that you are, helped raise her back to health. But now that she's healthy... it's time to let that baby bird fly the nest. It doesn't mean that she'll be gone forever. You'll always be friends."

"Yes... thank you, both of you, but... we're naked. We're all naked, and you're both hugging me."

Oh... yeah, that's right. You got caught up in trying to comfort your friend, you forgot where you were. You pull away, and Saki does the same as she pulls up her towel to be more covering, before realising how small it is, and having to pick and choose which part of her anatomy she'll have to keep on full display. You offer her your towel, but then she just gets more embarrassed.

"Well, what have we here?" a voice calls out, as you turn to see Taka approaching. Damn, would it kill him to at least try to wear a towel in a public bath?

"Taka, this is a serious moment, I don't need you ruining it-" you begin, but Taka quickly ignores you and hunkers down by Akira.

"Hey... how you holding up?"

Akira looks down. "A little better, but still not great. I still get the pains..."

Taka places his hand on her head gently. "Hey, it'll be okay. Now... I checked out this book out of the library. It was long as hell, and I ain't gonna read it, but Kamiko found the part for me about this phantom limb pain. Apparently, massage can help it."

"Really?" Akira wonders. "Well, I suppose it's worth a try."

"That's the spirit..." Taka smiles. What the hell? You never knew Taka was capable of being... nice to someone. "By the way, I don't think I've ever seen you completely in the buff until now. I gotta say, A+"

Aaand that sounds more like Taka.

File: Spoiler Image (824 KB, 800x1000)

824 KB PNG

You and Saki look at each-other and decide to give some privacy to the... love-birds? You're not sure. Regardless, you return to the pool and throw your arm over Saki. She smiles as the nestles in close to you.

"Ah..." Saki groans as the hot water does it's work on her aching muscles. "Today has been amazing."

"You said it," you smile, before you notice something beside you. "Wait... was Alice always sleeping here?"

Alice lets out a yawn and she wakes up beside you. "Oh... good morning, mom! Good morning, dad! Why are you in my bed?"

You smile and shake your head in amusement, as you're interrupted by another force. Akemi splashing up from the water with her snorkel yet again. "Hi guys!" she smiles.

Well, you supposed it would be foolish to expect any real private time... but this is fine too. Saki invites to brush Akemi's hair, and you do you best to do the same for Alice, despite not being well-acquainted with the act of coming, and Alice's hair being tangled as all hell. Still, it was a nice night, a relaxing night, and that's all you could have hoped for.

>Later

With the baths closed, it was time to retire for the night, though you did leave a snoozing Saki in bed in order to grab a drink from the front of the inn. On your way back through the hallway, you catch Kazuma sitting on the outside porch, the draft from the cold summer breeze making you very cold under your robes. Kid looks sad, you wonder why.

>Go talk to him.
>Nah, leave him alone. Call it a night.

>>1124083
>>Go talk to him.
K O U H A I

>>1124083
>>Go talk to him.

Rolled 43 (1d100)

Umm...whose kazuma again?

File: Kazs_Hell.png (23 KB, 580x202)

23 KB PNG

>>1124083
>Go talk to him.

>>1124102
The man with the Tuna Can.

>>1124102
im sorry what
did you forget an entire protagonist

>>1124083
>Go talk to him.
Mayu a shit.

File: Kazuma18.jpg (109 KB, 794x801)

109 KB JPG

>Go talk to him.

You head out into the cold winter air as you sit down next to the kid you've constantly taunted and teased. "Hey kouhai, how are you holding up?"

Kazuma says nothing, doesn't even kick up a fuss about you referring to him as kouhai.

"Come on, Kaz-chan, what's on your mind?" you tease again. Still no answer. "Is this because of your friend who took off? Or are you feeling bad for seeing your serious friend in the nude, because I honestly think it's healthier that pretty much everyone in this school has seen the others in various states of undress-"

"I didn't see anything when that fence came down," Kazuma mutters. "I didn't look at any exposed part of Mayu... except for that scar. The scar I gave her, over that stone."

"Hey, it's a good thing you don't have it anymore," you reassure him. "Can't drive you crazy anymore."

"Yes..." Kazuma replies. "But with so much going on... with Yami, then the tournament, with Tsuki still on the loose and more demons on the horizon... one of my best friends abandoned the school without warning and I still don't know why or if I should track her down and bring her back or just let her be... then to top it all off, my other friend suspects that a kid in our class was murdered by another member of our class, and that one of the leads lies with Io, and she wants me to track her down, but..."

"Will you?" you ask.

"Again... I don't know," Kaz sighs. "I've thought about it every day since, but I don't know if it's for the best. She was my friend... I think, but the more I think about it, the less it seems I ever knew her. I want to know who she really is, why she decided to do this... but at the same time maybe it's better to just leave her be, let her live her life alone like she wants?"

Kaz runs his hands through his hair. "The stuff with Io is just the tip of the iceberg. We're stuck juggling so many balls at once, and it's starting to feel like no matter what we do, it's two steps forward and three steps back. It's just... frustrating. Damn, I don't even know why I'm telling you this. You don't care about my problems."

>I wouldn't be here if I didn't, Kaz.
>Hey, chin up kid. It'll be okay.
>You've got friends, friends who will be with you every step of the way. That's all you need.

>>1124185
>>I wouldn't be here if I didn't, Kaz.
>>You've got friends, friends who will be with you every step of the way. That's all you need.
Kaz is Sad

>>1124185
>I wouldn't be here if I didn't, Kaz.
>You've got friends, friends who will be with you every step of the way. That's all you need.

>>1124185
>Hey, chin up kid. It'll be okay.
>You've got friends, friends who will be with you every step of the way. That's all you need.

>>1124185
>I wouldn't be here if I didn't, Kaz.
>You've got friends, friends who will be with you every step of the way. That's all you need.

>>1124185
>>I wouldn't be here if I didn't, Kaz.
>>You've got friends, friends who will be with you every step of the way. That's all you need.

File: Kazuma17.png (1.11 MB, 1000x1500)

1.11 MB PNG

>I wouldn't be here if I didn't, Kaz.
>You've got friends, friends who will be with you every step of the way. That's all you need.

Kaz pauses. "Are you one of those friends?"

You chuckle. "That's kinda pushing it, don't you think? But... I'm with you too. That's what's beautiful about this school. Y'know, before I came here, I was a nasty piece of work. I was a delinquent, a thief, a bully, and I didn't give a damn about having any friends."

"It warms my heart to see how much you've grown, Ryoji. I'm so proud of you."

"But after I came here... I made some amazing friends. Kosuke, Rini, Ken, Nanami, Akemi, Isamu, Rei... Saki most of all. The academy is a special place. Sure, it's a nightmare fuelled-dump of a school... but it's our nightmare fuelled-dump. That place brings people together, to the point where we're not just schoolmates, not just friends... but a family."

Kaz smiles. "Is this the part where you say I'm like a son to you?"

"Again, pushing it. At the very most, you're an annoying little brother," you reply, sarcastically ruffling his hair.

"So... you think I should go after Io?"

You shrug. "Well, she's a friend isn't she? Ultimately, it's your choice. But I'm not one to leave any friend behind... even the crappier ones."

Kazuma stands up and dusts himself off. "Thanks... Ryoji."

You smirk. "Heh, you were going to call me senpai, weren't you?"

"No!" Kazuma protests. "I mean, I was thinking about it... but no."

You give Kaz a pat on the back. You're sure things are beginning to look up for the guy... and would you look at that? The first snow of winter. Good thing you went to the springs today. The two of you retire for the night, as you crawl into a nice toasty inn bed with a nice warm Saki.

File: Agent_Blue05.jpg (197 KB, 850x854)

197 KB JPG

The next morning, it came time to return to the academy. Not a long trip, of course, with the academy sitting simply atop the hill overlooking the inn. It was simply a matter of packing your bags and walking.

"That trip was amazing!" Akemi smiles. "The snorkelling was so fun, and I relaxed a lot too!"

"You did?" Ken asks.

"Yep!" Akemi smiles. "Ooh, can we go to the beach next?"

"Akemi, it's winter," you reply. "It snowed all night."

"Yeeees, but can we go to the beach next?" Akemi smiles. "Oh, Raiden's going to be so disappointed he didn't come! Oh, I can't wait to tell him all about it, and show him all the pictures!"

"P-p-pictures?" Hoshi mumbles in fear.

"Yep!" Akemi exclaims. "I snapped a lot of pictures of us in the springs to put in my memories scrapbook!"

"I-in the spring?!" Rei snaps. "You... you mean when we were all... Akemi, get rid of those photos!"

"But they're for memories!" Akemi giggles as she skips along up the hill.

As you arrive at the academy, you're greeted to the sight of much less happy faces. Agents Blue and Agents Green, quick to address the rest.

"What's wrong?" Maro asks, moving to the head of the group.

"Yami's escaped," Green replies. What?!

"Yeah, and we think that Tsuki kid had a hand in it," Blue replies. "And... he left something behind. It all happened a few minutes ago. Hey, monkey girl... you might not want to see this."

"Huh?" Akemi asks. "Why not?"

Silently, Green and Blue lead you to the courtyard, where you're shown a nasty sight. Raiden, suspended from a wooden efficy in a crucifix position in the middle of the courtyard, bloody and beaten half to death with his skin badly burned.

"When we found him a minute ago, this whole thing was a pyre," Blue explains. "He would have been burnt to a crisp if we didn't discover it sooner... now we're looking for a way to cut the kid down without hurting him more."

"Oh my god... how could this happen?"

As you look above Raiden's dismayed face, the life dwindling slowly from it, you see the words written into the top of the effigy, using what appears to be Raiden's own blood smeared across the wood.

"By All Means. Send More Our Way."

END OF EPISODE 36

File: Lilo09.jpg (149 KB, 850x1131)

149 KB JPG

>Ending Theme
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=if5Ehx9hJis

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

>Twitter
https://twitter.com/bookerman32

Thanks for playing! Next thread will be up either Monday or Tuesday, most likely Tuesday, with bonus scene(s) coming soon! Follow the Twitter for any updates!

>Discord
https://discord.gg/yz7sDra

>Player Question
Oh hey, a hot springs episode! And it's late December in the DGAverse, and that can only mean one thing: Christmas! What was your favourite hot springs moment, and what do you expect for the Christmas episode?

>>1124343
Honestly, my favourite moment was the Akira/Taka stuff. Really good to see Taka grow, though Chihiro in her element was great.

Christmas will be great or terrible depending on which DGA character you ask. Rei and Isamu will enjoy it, I have...concerns for a few other characters...

>>1124343
Thanks for running Booker.

>PQ
Ryoji giving 0 fucks about Chihiro spying was great. Looking forward to mistletoe shenanigans like Chihiro being unable to convince anyone to walk under her doorway.

>>1124343
Thanks for running Booker.

>PQ
Favorite moment was Akemi knocking the fence down, lewd and funny at the same time. Taka had a good moment too, even if I thought he had been replaced with a skinwalker or something at first. As for xmas episode, super snowball fights. Mistletoe shenanigans and happy cheer with some suffering undertones since we still have plot to go through.