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“Are you okay, Amaya?”

Amaya’s oldest sister, Riho, stares over her plate at the campfire, a reassuring smile on her face. “You’ve barely touched your stew. Oh, how disappointing… and I placed so much love into it too!”

Amaya stares into the fire, not answering her sister.

“Amaya…?”

Giulia lets out an evil cackle. “Oh, she’s just moody after she got into trouble with father!”

“Your father?” Amaya’s mother, Syuri, approaches. “Oh heavens, I never see you in trouble, my dear Amaya. Did you take the fall for Shingo again?”

“Oi!” Shingo protests. “I didn’t do anything this time!”

“Giulia then?”

Giulia pouts. “She did it to herself!”

Syuri looks to her daughter. “Okay… what happened?”

Amaya refuses to answer, but Makoto is the one to speak up. “Amaya kept a straw doll given to her by the villagers in the last town… and father found out.”

The mother’s face twist into a sad frown. “Ah, I see…” she mutters. “Amaya… I know it seems harsh, but your father keeps us detached from the outside world for good reason. I’m sure that gift meant a lot to you, but we cannot accept it while we await the-”

Amaya doesn’t let her mother answer, instead storming off from the campfire.

As she does, the father of the Shibata clan emerges from his caravan. “What’s all that racket? Are Giulia and Shingo fighting again?”

“It’s Amaya,” Syuri explains. “Gedo… she’s upset about earlier.”

Gedo sighs. “I know… it pained me to get rid of that doll… but the rules are there for a reason. I hate to see Amaya upset… Makoto, go speak to your twin. She listens to you, and could use someone to talk to.”

Makoto heeds his father’s orders, yet the younger son has no idea what to say. He saw the look on Amaya’s face, the tears that ran from her eyes… what could he say to make her feel better? “That’s the rules”? Hardly the most comforting of sentiments.

When Makoto finds Amaya, she’s moving through the forest… with a rucksack full of her belongings.

“Amaya?” he throws out his arms. “What the heck are you doing?”

“Heck?” Amaya huffs. “Strong language, but it won’t change my mind. I’m… I’m running away.”

Running away? “You can’t be serious…” Makoto mutters. “I know the incident with the doll-”

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“It wasn’t just that!” Amaya explains. “It’s everything. We travel so much… I’ve seen the pain all around the world. When we were in that war-ravaged village… it broke my heart. We’re supposed to have a connection to the Elder One, we’re supposed to wait upon his return, never to act… and why? Why… can’t we help the people of the world? If we’re all created equal by the Elder One, why must we wait and allow others to suffer through inaction? If we have the ability, shouldn’t we be honing it? Shouldn’t we be helping people? And shouldn’t we be fighting back the forces of the Darkworld?”

“It’s difficult…” Makoto mutters. “But we need to trust father’s word that-”

“But I don’t!” Amaya exclaims. “I… I love our father. I really do, but… I don’t think he’s right. I need to act on my own, I need to be able to protect the world… and I need to learn how to hone my abilities. Learn new abilities… Makoto, I need to go to… that place.”

Makoto’s eyes widen. “Are you suggesting… the Dakugeto Academy?”

Amaya nods.

“But… father said that place was heretical.”

Amaya shakes her head. “Maybe it is… but wouldn’t you rather make a difference from the inside? I would...”

“Amaya…” Makoto mutters. “You can’t just leave. Who… who would catch me?”

Amaya places a hand on Makoto’s shoulder, he hand cold to the touch. “You won’t need me. I’ll miss you, brother.”

Amaya turns around and prepares her belongings before moving once more. “No…” Makoto mutters, stepping before her.

“Please, step aside…” Amaya responds in a saddened tone.

“If I beat you…” Makoto explains, moving into a fighting stance. “Then you come back with us.”

“And if I beat you, I’m free?” she asks.

“If you beat me… then I join you,” he explains.

Amaya’s mouth is left agape at the suggestion. “Makoto… you…”

Amaya moves into a fighting stance, fully understanding. No matter what happens, no matter which road these twins will go down… it will always be together.

>Present Day

You awake in your room, alongside Roka and Makoto, early in the morning. The three of you have made it to the semi finals of Act’s tournament. You’ll be facing Roka… and if you can win, you’ll be moving on to the finals against either Makoto or his twin sister Amaya.

This tournament… you wonder if it’s worth the award. Personal training from Act sensei would be hellish… but greatly rewarding. You’re all starving to be the best fighter you can be, but the toll this tournament has had on all of you… on Mayu… on Chuichi.

As you rise, you lock eyes with Roka from across the room.

“Finally…” Roka stares at you. “We’ll know.”

>I’m actually looking forward to it.
>Finally, I’ll kick your butt.
>Unless Kiriko stops us again, right?

>>4231911
>>I’m actually looking forward to it.
FINALLY A WORTHY OPPONENT
OUR BATTLE WILL BE LEGENDARY

>>4231911
>>I’m actually looking forward to it.

>>4231911
>>Finally, I’ll kick your butt

>>4231911
>>I’m actually looking forward to it.
It would be like fighting Kazdad before the actual fight against Kazdad

>>4231911
>Unless Kiriko stops us again, right?

Calling for
>I’m actually looking forward to it.

Writing now.

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>I’m actually looking forward to it.

Roka nods. "I'm the same..."

He trails off. "Asai... what are you actually fighting for?"

"Me?" you ask. "What am I... huh?"

Roka shakes his head. "Never mind. I'll see you both out there."

As Roka leaves the room, Makoto rises from his bed. "Well, Kazuma... we may be meeting in the finals."

"Maybe."

"It's quite awkward, isn't it?" he chuckles. "The three of us are newly roommates, yet I'll be meeting one of you in the finals. It could put a dent in our attempts at building camaraderie."

You shrug. "Won't you have to beat Amaya in the semi finals to do that?" you point out. "You said the only time you've fought, she beat you."

Makoto has a small smile on his face. "Ah, yes... she did. I have my work cut out for me then, don't I?"

You and Makoto get ready, before heading out to the battleground. As you arrive, you spot a tent set up near the forest.

"The hell?" Roka mutters, before instinctively kicking the tent.

"Hey, you can't just kick them!" you point out.

"Probably deserve it."

"You don't even know who it is!"

The tent zips open, as Ukon and Mai step out. "Hey!" Mai exclaims "Is it time for the end of the tournament already?"

You pause. "Did... did you guys camp out here to wait for the tournament?"

"Yep!" Ukon explains. "We wanted to be first on the scene!"

"You... you know out dorm is only a three minute walk from here anyway, right?" you reply. "What kind of time are you saving?"

"Three minutes."

Well, they've got you there. You can no longer blame Roka for kicking the tent. Speaking of Roka... you approach the brute as he leans up against a tree. "Hey, what did you mean by that question this morning?"

Roka crosses his arms, letting out a sigh. "Did you know I have a little brother?"

"No."

"Well, now you do..." he explains. "Ryusuke. He's a good kid... that's who I'm fighting for."

"What do you mean?" you ask.

Roka looks to you. "I knew you wouldn't get it."

"Get what?" you mutter, but Roka walks on.

You wait for the rest to arrive, as your class begins to pool in. Act-sensei is running late, but Takeshi is already on the scene. "I'm glad this is ending today..." Takeshi mutters. "This tournament has been awful for the class."

"I think we've all learned to get stronger!" Tami exclaims with a hopeful tone. "I know the areas I'm already improving on."

"At what cost? Look at Nakatoni. She hasn't been the same since her loss. She's been quiet and solemn."

"She's always quiet and solemn," Ninsei says.

Takeshi shakes his head. "Oh, but as your teacher, I have a strong connection. It's a different kind of solemn, I can tell. Aren't I right, Kaz-dog?"

"Don't call me that."

"Okay, Kazuma... Mayu has been... off, hasn't she?"

>She took a hit to her pride... but knowing her she'll bounce back stronger than ever.
>She would often open up to me about her worries... but lately she's been closed off.
>This is Act's fault. This kind of stunt is only tormenting her daughter.

>>4232000
>This is Act's fault. This kind of stunt is only tormenting her daughter.

>>4232000
>"You... you know out dorm is only a three minute walk from here anyway, right?" you reply. "What kind of time are you saving?"
>"Three minutes."
When you're right your right
>She would often open up to me about her worries... but lately she's been closed off.

>>4232000
>>This is Act's fault. This kind of stunt is only tormenting her daughter.
Going to win this stupid tournament and then spit on her offer.

>>4232000
>>This is Act's fault. This kind of stunt is only tormenting her daughter

>>4232000
>>This is Act's fault. This kind of stunt is only tormenting her daughter.

Calling for
>This is Act's fault. This kind of stunt is only tormenting her daughter.

Writing now.

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>This is Act's fault. This kind of stunt is only tormenting her daughter.

"No..." Mayu's voice mutters, as you note her standing behind you.

"Mayu..." you reply. "How are you?"

Mayu shakes her head. "My mother did not set out to perform a stunt or torment me, Kazuma. She seeked to challenge me, and I... failed to live up to the challenge. The failure is solely on my own shoulders."

"You... you can't possibly believe that," you mutter. "Mayu... there's no challenge you can't accomplish. You're the best fighter around here."

"If I was... I would still be fighting," she replies. "Kazuma, I need to do better. I need to be better. And you, Kazuma... you need to focus on winning."

Mayu steps away, ready to spectate the rest of the tournament, as Act strides into view, Miss Hirashi trailing closely behind her. "Look at them..." she mutters. "The final four. Amaya Shibata..." she looks over the female Shibata twin. "She's the one who defeated my dear Mayu. Clearly, she's dangerous... with my guidance, she could be unstoppable. But... would she want guidance from one like me?"

She then turns her attention to Amaya's brother. "Ah... the favourite. A boy like you... it's interesting..."

"What is?" Hirashi mutters. "He seems like your standard fighter. Your typical nice kid."

"Of course you think that," Act replies. "You're a simple minded human. You can't even see demons."

"I hate that being a bragging point..." Hirashi sighs.

"He's interesting because I can't understand what he wants," Act explains. "He seems... content. Yet he fights like his life depends on it. Does he really want to learn the Frost style? He seems to have no desire to..."

She then moves her attention to Roka. "And... him."

"You sounds angry," Hirashi mutters. "What did he do? Let me tell you, that kid is the worst. I bet he wrecked the equipment room again, didn't-"

"Shut it..." Act replies. "He's something else. He seems like a simple minded fool, but when it comes to battle, he's anything but. In combat... he's the smartest in the entire class."

"I find that hard to believe."

"It's true," Act grunts. "He's the last known practitioner of the Shadow Style... the style of that man."

Hirashi sighs. "You know, people really gotta start telling me things. You people are all so cryptic."

Act places a finger to her chin. "If he were to win, to learn both styles... he'd be quite the interesting trainee."

Finally, her eyes turn to you. "And Kazuma... he best win."

"That's it?" Hirashi raises an eyebrow. "That's your evaluation?"

"I wasn't talking to you," Act replies.

"Of course..." Hirashi whines. "You're always going with those soliloquies..."

Ukon looks at the bracket. "Ooooh, I'm so excited! Amaya vs Makoto is up next! Sibling vs Sibling! The ultimate competition for twin superiority!"

"Y-yeah..." Amaya mutters to herself.

>I think I'll be seeing you in the finals, Amaya.
>Having reservations?
>You could both refuse to fight, make me and Roka the finals.

>>4232130
>>Having reservations?
A Roka vs Kaz final now would feel like a waste, we are going full speed into twins arc.

>>4232130
>>Having reservations?
Veryyyy intersting, and I like the genuine grudging respect she has for Roka

>>4232130
>Having reservations?

>>4232130
>I think I'll be seeing you in the finals, Amaya.
W-Why is everyone laughing?

>>4232130
>I think I'll be seeing you in the finals, Amaya.
Oh Kaz

>>4232130
>>Having reservations?

Calling for
>Having reservations?

Writing now

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>Having reservations?

Amaya lets out a sharp exhale. "Of course not..."

"Well, let's get this over with..." Act declares.

"Amaya Shibata vs Makoto Shibata!" Hirashi announces. "Hey, I'm actually getting excited about this..."

Amaya and Makoto steps forward onto the battle field, and Hirashi blows her whistle.

Makoto gives a nod, and charges forward. Amaya awaits his arrival with her spear, until-

"I forfeit."

Everything comes to a standstill, as those words exit Amaya's mouth. Makoto stops in his tracks, a confused expression on his face. "Amaya, you..."

"OH COME ON!" A frantic Ukon exclaims. "YOU CAN'T JUST FORFEIT! DO YOU KNOW HOW HYPED I WAS ABOUT THIS?"

Atasuke crosses his arms. "Well, his excitement aside, I have to admit it is quite the letdown. I wanted to see the two trapeze artists at their best."

Amaya straightens her back, standing her ground. "I forfeit."

"Blondie, what do you mean you forfeit?" Gado asks. "Afraid to fight your brother?"

"They've fought before, though..." Risa notes. "Makoto even said she beat him."

Amaya throws her head back. "That's why... Makoto, you let me win that night, didn't you?"

"What? Of course not."

"Makoto..." Amaya glares. "Don't lie to me."

"... Yes."

"I knew it. Makoto... we're the same. We both want to learn how to become the strongest... and I think in our time here, you've adopted that philosophy even more than me."

"Amaya..." Makoto mutters. "What do you-"

"When I fought Mayu," she explains. "I was terrified. She fought like a shark... a cold, emotionless killer. The Frost style is designed to cause pain... that's not what I want. I want to support others, I can't stomach that training... but you can."

Makoto places his sword aside. "I see..."

"Makoto... you can learn a lot from Act-sensei. You can use it to your advantage. And so... I'll let you win this time. Returning the favour."

"She can't do that!" Kuin protests. "She's giving Makoto an advantage in the finals!"

Amaya steps away from the battlefield, as Act yells at her. "You beat my daughter, then you insult my style, then you do this?! You'll be punished! A thousand laps around the school!"

"So be it..." Amaya smiles.

Makoto scratches the back of his head. "Uhh... I'm not happy about it either, but... I guess this places me in the finals?"

"I guess so..." Hirashi mutters as she adjusts the bracket. "Only two more fights to go..."

"That girl..." Act mutters, eyeing up Amaya.

Makoto returns to the spectators, addressing you and Roka. "Well, roomies... I'm real sorry about this. I didn't want to have such an easy leap into the finals."

"It's fine..." Roka mutters. "I'll take it as a challenge. I'll beat Asai, and then you."

Makoto laughs. "Don't get too ahead of yourself. Kaz might have something to say about that, right Kaz?"

>Things just got a lot tougher for me, huh? I'm up to the challenge.
>What was Amaya thinking? What's your game?
>Roka, how about you forfeit and send me to the finals? Then it'd be fair!

>>4232289
>Roka, how about you forfeit and send me to the finals? Then it'd be fair!

>>4232289
>What was Amaya thinking? What's your game?
What kind of sick twisted carnie plan do you have up your sleeve?

>>4232289
>>Things just got a lot tougher for me, huh? I'm up to the challenge.
Biiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiig oof

>>4232289
>What was Amaya thinking? What's your game?
Act and Mayu confirmed shit tier fighters

>>4232289
>>Roka, how about you forfeit and send me to the finals? Then it'd be fair!

>>4232289
>>What was Amaya thinking? What's your game?

Calling for
>What was Amaya thinking? What's your game?

Writing now.

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>What was Amaya thinking? What's your game?

"Game?" Makoto raises an eyebrow. "I'm not trying to game anything..."

Anri places a finger to her chin. "It's hard to rule out the possibility of the twins conspiring... but it's just as like Amaya intended to boost her brother's level with or without his approval."

Mio pauses. "But that raises the question... why does Makoto and Amaya care so much about this tournament? What are you two gaining out of it?"

Mayu looks to Makoto. "He is the greatest fighter in our class."

"Yeah..." Mio admits. "But he doesn't seem as... hungry to chase that status as you guys. I've seen you, Kaz and Roka act like crazy people competing over that spot... no offence."

"If you believe he does not care..." Mayu notes. "You are naive. I Makoto did not care to be the strongest, he would not be the strongest."

Makoto gives a smile. "Well, Nakatoni-san... you may be the only one who has me figured out, aren't you?"

Mayu continues to stare, as Roka gives a shrug. "I'm sure you have your reasons, mystery prince. But they won't matter once we meet in the finals."

"Well..." Hirashi notes. "Next up is Roka Abe and Kazuma Asai!"

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You look to Kiriko with a joking smile. "You don't plan on breaking this one up again, do you?"

Kiriko shakes her head. "Nah. You guys can settle this. Besides, I think Ukon may have an aneurysm if another fight is cancelled."

You look to Roka as he does his stretches on the battlefield, and your mind wanders back to what he told you last night...

“There’s a reason your dad never trained you in the style. He was never going to put his own son through all that pain… and he’s a better man for it.”

“Frost style, Shadow style… whatever. You’re making your own form of fighting, from the ground up. Master yourself, then bring those techniques to me… I want to test myself against it.”

You promised to him you would, yet... you've never been less sure of yourself. You never even gave much thought into your own style of fighting until he brought it up. How can you master something you never realised you were creating? Was that really his plan? To bring up your eclectic style, make you fixate on it and second guess your movements in this battle? You're not even certain what you normally do in a fight... you always just went with the flow, moved on instincts alone. By pointin it out... Roka may have thrown you off your game, yet you're not sure if he meant to. Was it a trick from the ape... or does he genuinely want the best out of you?

"You look confused..." Ryoji smirks as he arrives on the scene of the tournament. "Sorry I'm late, got caught skipping class by Akihito-sensei."

"Then why aren't you in class now?" you ask.

"He didn't catch me the second time," he explains. "Make this quick, I gotta be at detention later."

"Sure..." you mutter. "This is gonna be tough, though."

"Aw kouhai," Ryoji jokes. "Would it help if I cheered you on?"

>You're full of jokes. You seemed upset when we left off yesterday...
>It... might. Maybe... doubt it, though.
>I feel like you cheering might be a distraction, honestly.

>>4232487
>I feel like you cheering might be a distraction, honestly.
So we have Shadow and Frost style
Does Kaz Call his homebrew style Lightning style or something
Or ape off the other two and call it dark ice or some other edgy mashup name?

>>4232487
>>I feel like you cheering might be a distraction, honestly.
plz

>>4232487
>I feel like you cheering might be a distraction, honestly

>>4232495
Euphoric Style

>>4232487
>>I feel like you cheering might be a distraction, honestly.

>>4232487
>>I feel like you cheering might be a distraction, honestly.
Probably because it would make Kaz nervous because his senpai is noticing him and putting attention to him.

Calling for
>I feel like you cheering might be a distraction, honestly.

Writing now.

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>I feel like you cheering might be a distraction, honestly.

"Heh, of course..." Ryoji gives a small smirk as he pats you on the back. "Well... go get 'em, kouhai."

Ryoji pushes you forward, causing you to stumble forward. You trip over your own feet, falling down onto the battlefield. Not the best entrance, and far from a great start. Yet... no laughter. Your classmates... huh, you would have figured more mockery...

"Gooooo Kaz!" Tami cheers. "Make me proud!"

Huh... you've really been accepted by these people, haven't you?

Roka grunts. "No playing around. You understand that, right?"

You nod. "Yeah, yeah... I get it."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kyRK2GI_T7I

"BEG-" Hirashi starts to declare, but she's already interrupted by the burst of motion from Roka as he charges you. He's like a battering ram, you throw up your sword to block it. You block the attack, but the impact still sends you flying back. Another shot, and you fly back even further.

"To nobodies surprise..." Atasuke flicks back his hair. "Their battle has already escaped the restraints of the battleground."

"Straight to 100mph, huh?" you remark, as Roka stares you. His eyes... they seem filled with genuine anger.

"Damn you..." Roka mutters to himself. This... is different from your last fights. What the hell is he doing?

You leap behind Roka and immediately summon your rifle, firing down on him while in mid-air. He's fast, avoiding each of your shots before leaping into the air himself. He grabs you by the shoulders and tosses you, sending you flying into a nearby tree. He charges with the slash, but you avoid... with Roka taking out the entire tree at the base.

"Destructive as ever..." Risa sighs. "These two don't know when to quit."

"Not gonna go easy on me?" you remark, as Roka looks to you.

Roka simply glares... this is getting scarier. "Listen here..." Roka replies. "You still don't get it, do you?"

You shrug. "No. Get what?"

"I... genuinely hate you," Roka replies. "You know why?"

"How am I supposed to know what goes through your brain?" you ask.

Roka grimaces. "Idiot... it's because you're selfish."

Selfish?

Before you can respond, he's back on the attack.

>Lure him away from the forest, keep him chasing you until you take advantage.
>He wants to clash, he'll get a clash. Charge with all your might.
>The trick is to get behind him, if he can give up his back, I can have the advantage.

>Lure him away from the forest, keep him chasing you until you take advantage.
Wow rood
not wrong
but rood

>>4232634
>The trick is to get behind him, if he can give up his back, I can have the advantage.
And I thought he hated us because we washed, and can read, and do basic arithmetic etc

>>4232634
>The trick is to get behind him, if he can give up his back, I can have the advantage.
>Just because I can read and shower frequently isn't a good reason to hate me
Taunt the subhuman ape

>>4232634
>>Lure him away from the forest, keep him chasing you until you take advantage.
Yeah you dont go Unga against an Unga and he probably has super sharp senses so the back attack is also risky so lets go with this.

>>4232634
>>Lure him away from the forest, keep him chasing you until you take advantage.

>>4232634
>>4232656
I'll back it

>>4232656
Changing my vote to taunting, Roka is the last person who should teach us a life lessons.

>>4232656
Good idea, lets go

Calling for
>The trick is to get behind him, if he can give up his back, I can have the advantage.
>Just because I can read and shower frequently isn't a good reason to hate me

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 88 (1d100)

>>4232719

Rolled 60 (1d100)

>>4232719

Rolled 83 (1d100)

>>4232719
It's been a while since the last time I rolled.

Rolled 83 (1d100)

>>4232719

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>88

"Just because I can read and shower frequently isn't a good reason to hate me," you taunt, as you try to get behind Roka.

Roka swings around with a backfist, but you duck under, rolling through to get his back once more. In response, Roka leaps back, smashing you through a tree.

You collapse, as Roka boots you in the gut. Did he not respond to your taunting well? He's angry... but it doesn't seem to have anything to do with what you said.

"That's just it..." Roka mutters. "You really convinced yourself you're the good guy, didn't you?"

The hell is he talking about? You...

Roka goes to stomp on your head, but you roll through, getting under his legs and behind him. You press forward with your katana... and pierce through his shoulder once you get his back. Even with your wooden sword, the speed of your thrust is enough to slice and draw blood from your rival. He grimaces as he staggers forward. "Even now..." he mutters.

"I'm just trying to fight," you point out.

"To what end?" Roka replies. "Do you still not understand my question?"

His question? He... asked what you fought for earlier.

"Do you know why I fight?" Roka asks.

"To be the strongest."

"Do you know why I aim to be the strongest?" he asks.

You don't answer, electing to attack him again. He dodges the first, but you graze him across the face on the second.

"My little brother..." Roka mutters. "I want to become a hero... for him. Kids like him... they need a hero to inspire them. To show them they can do anything. I want to inspire, I want to protect the people of the world."

"Roka..." you mutter.

"But you..." Roka readies his sword once more. "You've never given a damn about that, have you?"

You...

"Every time you open your stupid mouth..." Roka grunts. "It's all about impressing your dad, a father who's not even around to see you. You don't want to help people. You don't care about protecting anyone! You're in this for wholly selfish reasons! You're just looking for bullshit validation!"

You... well it's not untrue that you've had your father's approval in mind, but... that doesn't mean you don't care... right?

"You bastardise everything I've ever cared about," Roka explains. "And you have the gall to act like you're the valiant hero, and talk down to me? You're the single most self-centred, undeserving, underachieving piece of crap I've ever met. I despise you, Kazuma. More than I've ever hated anyone. More than I ever thought possible."

"So... what?" you ask. "All this talk of wanting to see me at my best, asking me to show you my fighting style... is that just to throw me off? All along, did you just want to kick my ass?"

"No..." Roka replies. "I just desperately want you to prove me wrong... but I don't think you can."

With that, Roka readies his sword again and charges.

>Stay on the defensive, let him wear himself out.
>Fight back, look for a counter or an opening.
>Keep moving, you need to use your environment to your advantage.

>>4232849
>>Keep moving, you need to use your environment to your advantage.
Aint anyway we can block that

>>4232849
>>Keep moving, you need to use your environment to your advantage.
Dude! He literally acts like an angry monkey in front of people, he scares his classmates and acts like everyone except 3-4 people are worthless weaklings and he thinks just because he has a sad sob story in the form of a sick brother he has the moral high ground?
Screw him! kick his ass.

>>4232849
>Keep moving, you need to use your environment to your advantage.
So just because Kaz doesn't want to be an icon for others or the peoples hero he's the bad guy?
What an absolute farce
Roka doesn't even deserve words from Kaz jesus
Too much brain damage for his own good

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>>4232849
>Keep moving, you need to use your environment to your advantage.
Does Roka dye his hair?

>>4232849
>>Keep moving, you need to use your environment to your advantage.

Calling for
>Keep moving, you need to use your environment to your advantage.

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 59 (1d100)

>>4232901

Rolled 21 (1d100)

>>4232901

Rolled 96 (1d100)

>>4232901

Rolled 89 (1d100)

>>4232901

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>96

You stay on the move, keeping a distance from Roka as you try to find the proper environment to use to your advantage. Of course, Roka gives chase, like a hungry tiger he stays in hot pursuit. "So what if I think of my dad when I fight?" you protest. "It's still in the interest of bettering myself, right?"

"If your father came here and told you right now that your current level is good enough, and he's proud of you as you are... would you continue trying to get better?" Roka replies.

"I..." you mutter. You had never considered that question before. All your life you've seeked that approval, that validation... you never considered what you would do after getting it. "I... probably would."

"I don't believe that for a second," Roka replies. "If you were just interested in constantly bettering yourself, becoming a better fighter, a better person, for the sake of it, that I could respect! But you don't even care enough about your own improvement! You only care about the shallow validation! It's disgusting!"

You shake your head, deflecting an attack, before moving again. The two of you are now in the school courtyard. "No!"

"Take your girlfriend, Mayu..." he explains. "She fights to improve herself every day. You think the day her mother shows pride, the day she gets her revenge, whatever... that she'll stop? Of course not, she'll never stop trying to improve. I respect her for that. She'll exhaust herself, run herself ragged... I know this because she did so, and suffered for it. And what really stuck in my side... what was your response to that?"

"I was worried about-"

"Like hell you were," Roka spits. "Your response was to decide that YOU had to win this tournament to shove it in Nakatoni-sensei's face. You didn't give a damn about how she felt."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGFZHBK2lTs

"It was for her sake..."

"Was it?" Roka asks. "Because she didn't blame or hate her mother, even this morning when you tried to convince her that she should spite her. And Kiriko... you never once thought about how the fly cared? It took all the convincing in the world to even notice that she was trying too? And Tami-"

"I destroyed her bow without thinking..." you mutter.

Maybe... maybe he has a point. This whole tournament... you've been focused entirely on yourself, and not even in a good way. You ignored Kiriko's feelings... you attempted to project your resentment of Act onto Mayu... hell, why are you trying to win this tournament? Not once have you considered how much better you would become from Act's tutelage. You didn't once consider how you could grow as a fighter and a person.

File: Kazuma18.jpg (117 KB, 794x801)

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No... you thought you should win out of ego. You're Kazuma Asai, and that meant you deserved the win. Spite, pride, stubbornness... is that really why you've been doing this?

Mayu has barely spoken... Chuichi... your best friend is in a hospital bed, because he fought for something that actually mattered to him.

"I feel like you cheering might be a distraction, honestly..."

Even your words to Ryoji come back to you. He was deep in thought, and you refused his honest support. Then you think back to last night with Roka...

"You never wondered why my face is split in half?”

“I figured it was in a gang fight, or something.”

... You never saw it creep on you, huh. Just when did you become so petty.

>Years ago

"Ah, ah it stings!"

Your mother treats your scratch as she lets out a sigh. "Now, Kazuma... just what were you doing getting into a fight like that?"

"I didn't want to fight..." you sniffle. "But they were bullying that boy..."

You mother shakes her head. "Kazuma, were you bigger and stronger than those bullies?"

"No..."

"Did you think you could change anything by getting involved?"

You shrug. "It... was worth trying. It felt like the right thing to do... wasn't it?"

Your mother smiles. "Of course it was, dear. I'm very proud of you."

"Next time..." you promise, "I'll be strong enough. Little kids like that need someone to look out for them."

"Well, be considerate of the ones who have to look out for you," your mother replies. "I don't want to stitch up my baby every week."

"I know mom... I will."

>Present day

Back then, you weren't just looking for Kankuro's approval, were you? You wanted to be better so that you would be better. So you couldn't be limited from doing what you felt was right... did you lose sight of that?

Roka stares at you, the two of you standing apart in the courtyard, before lowering his sword with a sigh. "You're not seeing it, are you? Dammit... fighting you is just depressing."

"No..." you mutter. "I get it now. I've been distracted, but... I get it."

"Then tell me," Roka replies. "Just who are you fighting for?"

>For Myself.
>For Mayu.
>For my Father.
>For... everyone.
>Right now? For you.

>>4233049
>>Right now? For you.
Niiiice working in past votes

>>4233049
>>For Myself.
The fuck do you expect, dumb monkey? It's not like I'm a horrible person because of it. At least I'm not a self-righteous ouroboros up my own ass about muh "heroic ideals". I don't have to fight "for" anything to make the fight worthwhile, you ape. As long as we help our friends when they need it, and defend them when they're defenseless. It's not like we came here to pretend to be a Kamen Rider.

>>4233049
>For Myself.
>And any other reason is no concern of yours
Angsty teen vs Self righteous twat teen

>>4233049
>>For Myself.
So what if Kaz is selfish he is selfish because he wants to be stronger and be recognized by his dad, he is selfish because he wants Act to see her mistakes about Mayu., he is selfish because he wants his senpai to notice him and depend on him, he is selfish because he doesn't want to feel like a death weight when defending others, but right now he is selfish because he wants to prove Roka how wrong he is.

>>4233049
>>For Myself.

>>4233063
I'll back this

>>4233049
>For Myself.

Calling for
>For Myself.

Writing now.

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

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>For Myself.

Roka gives a nod... and raises his sword again. "You get it, then?"

You nod back. "Forget my father... forget Act... forget whatever petty reason I had in my mind. I'm fighting so that I can be the man I want to be. The man I should be."

"Because-"

"It's just right," you reply.

Roka can't help but crack a smile. "All right then, come and prove me wrong."

You ready your sword. "Thanks... but it's my turn to call you out."

"What?"

You charge, and send Roka on the defensive. "Who the hell gives you the right to be so self-righteous?! For a guy who doesn't care about what other's think, you sure loved getting on your high horse, didn't you?"

"I-"

"You're not perfect either, are you?" you fire back. "What gives you moral authority over others?"

"Nothing..." Roka replies as he parries a blow. "But saying all that got you to take action, didn't it?"

You pause. Huh...

Now the two of you can't help but smirk. Are you and Roka... finally at an understanding?

"Go all out?" you propose.

"All out," Roka replies.

Oh, you're gonna enjoy this...

>Meanwhile

"Finally, you're here!" Hirashi exclaims as Ryoji drags Akemi into view. "Look, we have a fight going on that's out of our sight and-"

"Have no fear, Akemi is here!" Akemi bounces, before pulling out a remote control. "I made this drone to follow the action, and this screen to watch it on!"

The screen Akemi holds up fits comfortably in the palm of her hand. "Uhh..." Ryoji mutters. "Isn't that a bit too small for everyone to see?"

"They can crowd around!" Akemi exclaims. "Oh, the drones got a feed on them! Oh, hey! They're fighting on the school building!"

"You mean... around, right?" Makoto asks. "Or... on the roof?"

"Nope!" Akemi exclaims. "On the walls!"

"What?!" Kiriko yells. "Those... maniacs!"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxyMek3vTgc

You and Roka are giving it your all. You run sideways across the walls and clash blades with Roka Abe... and the sonicboom of your clash breaks the windows you're both standing on. You both leap from pane of glass to pane of glass, before ending up back on the wall and sprinting up.

Roka swings at you, leaving an opening... but nah. You understand the tenants of Shadow style from fighting him... that opening is a ruse. Instead of taking it, you leap up, swing kicking him through the wall. You don't even think about the damages.

As Roka crashes into the empty class 1 classroom, he wipes blood from his lip. "That all you got?"

File: Kid_Roka.png (175 KB, 180x606)

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You don't reply. You've got your headphones on, and are completely in flow state, operating according to your instincts. This is you at your best... and you have Roka to thank for that.

He kicks up your desk, and you slice through it. He falls back, as the two of you fight through the hallway and into an unused classroom across the corridor. This time, he sends you through the window on the opposite end of the building.

"Hey, try to slow down! I can't follow!" an electronic voice calls from a drone buzzing around the building.

You both sprint up the wall and over the steel grating of the school roof, landing in the pen and clashing blades once more. Your landing cracks the cement beneath your feet, and you both step back to reformulate.

"This..." you chuckle. "This is where we first met... you were a total jackass back then too."

"And I never liked your guts," Roka spits back.

You've been enemies, rivals since that day... but the more you fight him, the more you see in common. He fights your father's style, you feel a familiarity with him, your own dorky quirks, your stubborn pride... even now he did all he could to bring you to your senses, to drag the best out of you... and you did the same for him. Dragging each-other, kicking and screaming, to the top... you're saving each-other here.

If the two of you had met when you were children... would things have been different? Would you have been enemies? The thoughts come to you now...

>In another life

"Hey, cool cape!" you tell the young boy sitting alone, looking over a scant lunch.

"Thanks..." he replies. "Hey, is that a Star Wars lunchbox?"

"Sure is... whoa, look at those bruises!" you remark. "Did you get into a fight?"

The kid shakes his head. "I... don't want to talk about it."

You smile. "My dad said to watch out for kids like you."

He grimaces. "I bet..."

"What did he say?" you ponder. "Oh, he said a kid like you is a... ummm... badass, that's it!"

The kid laughs. "Do you even know what that means, dummy?"

"I bet it's something cool," you shrug. "I saw you help out that kid."

He looks away. "I didn't do much... I got my butt kicked... and looked like an idiot-"

"Looked like a hero!" you protest.

He shakes his head. "Nah... I shouldn't have gotten involved-"

"But it was worth trying! It... feels like the right thing to do, right?"

"Yeah..." the boy replies.

"Hey, we should team up!" you suggest.

His eyes light up. "Like... Red Mask when he teams up with Cyber Rider, right?"

"Sure!" you smile. "I don't know what that is, but yeah! Until we can get stronger on our own, we'll team up to help the weak! We'll help each-other grow!"

You reach out your hand, and the two of engage in an enthusiastic handshake. "I like that!" the boy exclaims. "I'm Roka Abe!"

"Kazuma Asai!"

"THE TEAM-UP OF THE CENTURY!" you both proclaim.

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>Reality

It's nice to think about... but that's not the life that came your way. Had you met during your early years, before the cynical world kicked both of you in the teeth, you likely would have been the best of friends. But fate just didn't see that for you and Roka.

In the cold reality, you and this boy will likely never be friends. And yet... fighting him pulls you from a pit of self-centred loathing. Fighting you puts a smile on his scarred face. You may not be friends... but perhaps you can both be something greater to each-other.

"Let's finish this," Roka smiles with a devilish grin. "I'M FEELING THE RUSH OF ENERGY! A YEAR IN THE MAKING!"

"OUR WHOLE LIVES IN THE MAKING!" You fire back. "COME AT ME, ROKA!"

And so, the two of you charge.

Duck, parry, clash, parry, duck, dodge, parry... both of you staying blow for blow. The grating of the roof falls apart just from the impact of your attacks. You and Roka clash one more time... and send each-other's swords flying into the air. You both quickly switch to hand to hand combat. His strikes come in fast, but you're able to deflect each and every one.

Your swords come flying down, and you both reach up. He grabs your blade, and you grab his.

You swing... and you adjust to the new weight of his sword quicker than he adjusts to yours... and you catch him where it counts.

As silence rings through your ears... Roka goes down.

"THE WINNER..." the voice on the drone exclaims. "KAZUMA ASAI!"

"Good hit..." Roka admits through heavy breathes.

You stand proud, but exhausted... when Akihito-sensei breaks down the door of the roof.

"YOU TWO!" he shouts, red in the face with anger. Oh boy... "Do you children have any idea how much damaged you just caused in your spat?! The two of you are gonna have detention for a LOOOOOOOONG time!"

Well... you did kinda go overboard.

Once you're dragged back to the rest of the class, Roka approaches you. "Sound style."

"Huh?" you raise an eyebrow.

"Just a suggestion," he explains. "You fulfilled your promise. You're on the way to master your own style, and you showed me that."

"Okay... why sound?"

"The way you fight..." he explains. "It's completely going with the flow. It's so hard to predict, because you're constantly changing and adapting. It's like a piece of music..."

>I like that... Sound Style. Thanks.
>Huh... I'll think about that.
>I dunno... I think if it has a name, I'll find it myself.

>>4233229
>>I dunno... I think if it has a name, I'll find it myself.

>>4233229
>>I like that... Sound Style. Thanks.
Aw hell yeah

>>4233229
>>I dunno... I think if it has a name, I'll find it myself.
I think that was the most anime fight I have read ever.

>>4233229
>>I dunno... I think if it has a name, I'll find it myself.

>>4233229
>I dunno... I think if it has a name, I'll find it myself.

>>4233229
>Huh... I'll think about that.

Calling for
>I dunno... I think if it has a name, I'll find it myself.

Writing now.

File: Amaya32.jpg (285 KB, 1024x1773)

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>I dunno... I think if it has a name, I'll find it myself.

Roka nods. "I get it... good luck figuring it out. Honestly...?"

"Yeah?" you ask.

"You should go with Sound style, that's a killer name."

"No way," you reply. "I could totally come up with something better!"

"I'd like to see you try!"

You chuckle, before clutching your ribs. Damn... that fight took so much out of you. You forgot that it wasn't even the finals of the tournament...

Makoto stands before you, untouched and well-rested, as the head of the class lets out a sigh. "You two sure took it to each-other. I really don't like having this advantage."

"The tournament's a foregone conclusion, right?" Mai explains. "I mean, there's no way Kazuma can beat both Roka and Makoto in a row, right? Especially when Makoto is completely fresh!"

Ukon sighs. "Why'd you do it, Amaya?! Why'd you rob us of a fair competition?!"

"I think at this point you're the only one who cares about that..." Sae mutters.

Amaya shakes her head. "Makoto... he put aside everything in his life to come here with me. He was against the idea, and yet... he trusted me. And now... I trust my brother. If anyone deserves that training, it's the one who always puts other's needs before himself. The one who does all he can to protect others... it's Makoto."

"Amaya..." her brother mutters.

Act is quick to snap her fingers. "You aren't the judge of that, kiddo! We've still got another fight! Hit it!"

Hirashi snaps to attention and blows her whistle. "And now... the finals of the tournament... Kazuma Asai vs Makoto Shibata!"

Makoto looks to you and gives a smile. "Well, I guess it's between you and me now, roomie."

>May the best man win, Makoto.
>... I forfeit. You deserve it... and I have nothing to prove here.
>Why do you even want this?

>>4233312
>>Why do you even want this?

>>4233312
> Don't say anything, conserve your strength.
Both of us owe it to ourselves to go all out.

>>4233312
>>Why do you even want this?
Went from one opposite to the other, this guy does everything for everybody else, what does HE even wants for himself.

>>4233312
>May the best man win, Makoto.
>Open fire with your rifle

>>4233312
>Why do you even want this?
God I wanted to take the 2nd option just to fuck over Act but my curiosity has got the better of me.

Calling for
>Why do you even want this?

Writing now.

File: Makoto03.png (248 KB, 650x877)

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>Why do you even want this?

Makoto looks you in the eyes. His piercing green stare cuts through you as he speaks. "Well, Kazuma... I need to be strong enough to save my family. And right now... I don't think I am."

"Your family?" you ask.

Makoto sighs. "I'll explain in time. Just know, that more than anything I want to learn all I can while I'm here."

As Makoto walks to the battefield, Mayu squints her eyes while observing him. "He stands at the top of our class... while myself, yourself and Roka battled over the second spot, he sat comfortably above us... and yet... he doubts his own strength."

"I think it's natural to doubt yourself," you reassure Mayu, placing a hand on her shoulder. "It's all in the process of bettering yourself, isn't it? As long as you don't allow yourself to wallow in that doubt, you come out the other end stronger."

Mayu looks to you. "Kazuma..."

"Maybe I win this tournament," you reply. "Maybe I don't... I'll bounce back either way."

Mayu nods. "Kazuma, promise me that you will do your best."

"I will," you reply. "I always will. I've been taught to keep pushing beyond, to better myself, for my own sake. Worrying about approval or validation... it'll just destroy us."

Mayu thinks over your words, quietly pondering to yourself. "What helped you draw this conclusion?"

You pause, looking over your shoulder. "... An enemy."

You move to the battlefield, where Makoto awaits. "Well, I don't intend on causing as much wanton destruction as yourself and Roka," he notes. "That was awfully inconsiderate of the both of you."

"We kinda got carried away."

"That's okay..." Makoto smiles. "Let's keep this battle firmly on this arena. Agreed?"

"Agreed."

And that's all for tonight! Will be continuing with the finals tomorrow! Thanks for playing!

File: Makoto02.png (409 KB, 847x1200)

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"Begin!"

Makoto unsheathes his blade, as you grip your katan tight. "I really do not like the advantage I've been granted here..." he sighs.

"You would have had an advantage either way," you point out. "You're the top of the class."

Makoto tilts his head to the side. "I suppose that's true. Still, you're not far behind me, are you Kazuma? I wish you all the best."

Makoto charges, and you attempt to leap over him, but he catches you by the ankle. Pulling you down, he swings with his blade once more but you duck underneath. You slide under his feet and try to get behind him, but Makoto is one step too fast, blocking with his sword behind his back.

"Go Makoto!" Amaya beams with pride. "Do it for the Shibata clan!"

"Yeah, goooo sweetie!" an enthusiastic Chihiro also cheers.

"You can do it bro!" Kiriko exclaims, supporting you.

"Yeah!" Tami adds. "You gotta win for my sake!"

Mayu tightly clenches her fists. "I believe in you, Kazuma."

For the rest of the class, their feelings are split. Both yourself and Makoto are liked among the student body, so they're happy to support either of you, no matter who wins.

"Kazuma, I have a question..." Makoto notes as you clash blades.

"What's that?"

"I haven't used my magic yet," he explains. "Do you have a counter?"

His question is meant in earnest, but it's hard not to see it as a taunt. Just another advantage Makoto has over you.

Right on cue, his hand begins to burn with a blue flame. This trick again, you've seen him use this fire throughout the tournament.

>The trick is to stay on the offence. He can't cast magic if he's too busy defending!
>I have to be quick, that fire targets where I'm standing. I can't remain in one place too long.
>I'll just fire back with my own ranged attacks!

>>4234800
>The trick is to stay on the offence. He can't cast magic if he's too busy defending!

>>4234800
>>The trick is to stay on the offence. He can't cast magic if he's too busy defending!

>>4234800
>>The trick is to stay on the offence. He can't cast magic if he's too busy defending!
STABBY STABBY FRIEND

>>4234800
>The trick is to stay on the offence. He can't cast magic if he's too busy defending!

>>4234800
>I have to be quick, that fire targets where I'm standing. I can't remain in one place too long.

Calling for
>The trick is to stay on the offence. He can't cast magic if he's too busy defending!

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 26 (1d100)

>>4234832

Rolled 3 (1d100)

>>4234832

Rolled 60 (1d100)

>>4234832

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>60

You rush towards Makoto with your blade at the ready. He needs time to prepare those spells, if he's on the defence he won't be able to take advantage with them.

Makoto steps back as you thrust with your blade, keeping his distance as he charges up his spell. Dammit... you slash at his arm and he has to pull it, causing the flames to dissipate.

"You fascinate me," Makoto admits.

You raise an eyebrow. "Hmm?"

"To be honest..." Makoto admits. "As I've watched you, I've never been certain where you stand. What world are you of?"

"What do you mean?"

Makoto shakes his head. "Ah, overly metaphorical... I mean I've never been sure of your morality. Your presence can be... conflicting at times. Yet when I see you fight, I get this sense..."

You understand what he means. You battle style, it lack viciousness... you simply go with the flow. It works well for you, but your battle style lacks the killer instinct... you fight like a traditional hero.

"You fight like a child."

"WHAT?!" you exclaim.

Makoto stutters. "I-I don't mean that in a bad way! Your style... it's got the innocence of a child to it. It's soft, it's exploring throughout the fight. I find it... admirable."

That's all well and good... but his sentence worries you. To him, he's just complimenting you. But to you... he's stating that he has you completely figured out, and that spells disaster for you.

Makoto's hand glows blue with flames once more. "I want to see how you adapt. Now!"

He lets loose with his flames, circling around you and trapping you in the battlefield. The flames close in around you... this is bad...

>Cyclone spin to expel the flames.
>Meet Makoto in the air above the flames.
>Charge through the flames to tackle Makoto.

>>4234869
>>Meet Makoto in the air above the flames.
JUMP SLASH

>>4234869
>>Meet Makoto in the air above the flames.
Air Battle!

>>4234869
>>Meet Makoto in the air above the flames.
Rising Falcon

>>4234869
>Charge through the flames to tackle Makoto.

>>4234869
>Cyclone spin to expel the flames.

Calling for
>Meet Makoto in the air above the flames.

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 1 (1d100)

>>4234887

Rolled 75 (1d100)

>>4234887

File: Things are getting spooky.gif (87 KB, 192x197)

87 KB GIF

Rolled 33 (1d100)

>>4234887

>>4234892

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>75

As the flames close in, you leap into the air, meeting Makoto as he jumps to meet you. A jumping slash, and your blades clash in the air once more. He knew to meet you, but how? You stare at Makoto face as your blades connect, your faces inches from each-other. He has a look of determination, as his hair flutters against the force of your attack, and his ear-rings flutter frantically. His ear-rings... that's it.

"You use those ear-rings, don't you?" you point out. "They move in accordance with changes in the wind, allowing you to know when to react to attacks, and from which direction, right?"

Makoto smiles. "Well spotted. It's a useful trick... you're observant. Always discovering..."

You both land, as you plant your feet. He's expecting a mad dash and for his ear-rings to pick up on your movements, but you defy expectations, planting your ground and tripping Makoto up with a judo style toss into his own flames.

Makoto removes the flames but lands on his back on the earth of the battefield. You move above him as he bounces off the concrete, and he attempts a few shots with his fireballs... but you manage to dodge them and send your blade crashing down... but he manages to move his head in time.

You stand atop Makoto, your opponent cornered. "Do you give?"

Makoto chuckles. "Oh, that's nice. That's far from all I've got."

Makoto points to the earth below as his hand glows blue... and lets out a jet of flame which launches both of you high up into the air.

"Whoa, look at the height on that!" Akemi exclaims.

"Makoto..." Amaya mutters, before rushing forward. "You know what to do!"

You come down with a slash on Makoto as he stands atop the geyser of fire... but a new weapon materialises in his free hand. "Is... that...?"

Amaya's spear?

"How did you?" you mutter.

"We're connected like that," Makoto notes, brandishing two weapons before pushing you back. As you land, Makoto stays atop the flames, they cause no harm to him as they form into what looks like a cloud shaped bundle of blue that he happily surfs upon.

"Whoa, another trick?" Kiriko mutters. "He's like Sun Wukong riding a flying nimbus!"

"So cool..." a starry-eyed Kuin admires.

Makoto lowers himself, but still stands floating above with two weapons and a new flying mode of transportation. "I feel it would be an insult if I wasn't giving you all I have," he explains.

"You're right," you reply through heavy breaths. "I'll beat you even like this!"

"Very well," Makoto smiles... as those rings he used to trap Gado in their fight appear and start chasing you around the arena.

>Keep dodging them. If they catch me, I'm doomed. I need to catch Makoto to stop them.
>There must be a way to deflect them back at Makoto... I'll try that.

>>4234948
>>There must be a way to deflect them back at Makoto... I'll try that.

>>4234948
>Keep dodging them. If they catch me, I'm doomed. I need to catch Makoto to stop them.

>>4234948
>>There must be a way to deflect them back at Makoto... I'll try that.
do it nerd

>>4234948
>Keep dodging them. If they catch me, I'm doomed. I need to catch Makoto to stop them.

Calling for
>There must be a way to deflect them back at Makoto... I'll try that.

Roll 1d100, BO3.

Rolled 18 (1d100)

>>4234979

Rolled 7 (1d100)

>>4234979
Kudos to Kaz for never giving up.

Rolled 48 (1d100)

>>4234979

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>48

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

Makoto sends the rings flying towards you as you duck and weave between them. If you could just fire them back...

Taking the chance, you swing your sword at one of the rings, and like a baseball bat it clangs and sends the ring flying back in the direction of Makoto, who does all he can to avoid it. He weaves out of the way, doing a barrel roll on his tuft of flames, before flying back towards you. You leap and clash in mid-air, as the rings still pursue you. He's so adept at magic at such a young age... most take a lifetime to even master one brand of magic, but he...

You spin around, slashing the rings and destroying them. As you look across the battlefield, you and Makoto are in a staredown. At an impasse. all that's left to do is charge. Like two samurai, or two cowboys engaged in a duel... you both come for each-other, the better man to win.

Makoto leaps from his stoop and comes crashing down, thrusting both his spear and sword down. You slash up, and clash with both blades. Pushing... pushing... you root your feet into the ground. Whoever gives in this exchange... loses.

"Kazuma... your strength is remarkable..." Makoto gives an impressed smile, as you strain to keep him at bay. "You know... you would make a great rival!"

With that, Makoto pushes forward... and sends you katana flying from your hand, and you crashing into the ground. You reach for your blade, but your injuries are catching up to you... and Makoto closes the distance by planting Amaya's spear in the distance between you and your weapon, cutting you off entirely.

He... beat you.

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"The winner... MAKOTO SHIBATA!"

"Damn..." Kiriko mutters. "You really gave it your all, Kaz... I'm proud of you."

"Kazuma..." Mayu mutters. "I could see the fire in your eyes. You have inspired me even further..."

Roka crosses his arms. "Looks like I can only claim to third place... I wonder how it would have gone if Asai was fresh."

Hirashi looks to Act, who is utterly stunned by the results. "Umm... Nakatoni-san?"

"You..." Act looks to Makoto. She truly expected you to win, didn't she? She... had some kind of faith in you. Maybe she doesn't hate you so much after all...

Makoto pays no attention to Act, instead offering you a hand to take you back to your feet. He pulls you back up, and the class applauds the sportsmanship.

"My new apprentice..." Act ponders. "This boy... you, Makoto Shibata! How does it feel to be taught under the great Act Nakatoni, master of the Frost style?"

Makoto gives a respectful bow. "Truly honoured, sensei... but I have to admit, I don't know if I could have won had I not been granted an unfair advantage. I... request that you take Kazuma Asai under your wing as well!"

"Both of you...?" Act thinks it over for a moment, as Makoto looks to you with a reassuring wink.

>Makoto... I was never going to beat you. This win is all yours.
>Act-sensei... I promise to master your style if you train me. Together, Makoto and I will rise to the top.
>Thanks... but no thanks. I have my own style... that's what I want to focus on.

>>4235032
>>Thanks... but no thanks. I have my own style... that's what I want to focus on.

>>4235032
>>Thanks... but no thanks. I have my own style... that's what I want to focus on.
I feel like she'd either find this super insulting or this is what the whole point of this was

>>4235032

>Makoto... I was never going to beat you. This win is all yours.

>>4235032
>Thanks... but no thanks. I have my own style... that's what I want to focus on.
Your style got beat by the inferior twin, no thanks

>>4235032
>Thanks... but no thanks. I have my own style... that's what I want to focus on.
Just looking at Mayu I can tell Frost Style is super boring and doesn't allow the kind of crazy, impractical anime moves that Kaz loves.

>>4235032
>>Thanks... but no thanks. I have my own style... that's what I want to focus on.
>>4235047
Plus, Act is kind of a gigantic ass.

>>4235058
Act is rather THICC

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>Thanks... but no thanks. I have my own style... that's what I want to focus on.

Act pauses. "What?"

"WHAT?!" Mayu exclaims. Everyone looks directly at her... Mayu almost never loses her composure or raises her voice.

"You're actually turning down this offer?" Act replies. "Are you crazy?! With this training, you could..."

You nod. "I'm sure your training will be a great benefit... but it's not right for me. Frost style... Shadow style... neither of them are for me. What I have... whatever it may be called... that's for me to discover myself. I think it's on me to focus on improving my own technique before aping someone else's. I don't think that's really my vibe."

Act pauses... then begins to quickly approach you. Uh oh, you pissed her off, didn't you?

She reaches you... and places a hand on your shoulder. "Best of luck then, Asai. I believe you can do it. You should too."

She... believes in you?

"As for you..." she turns to Makoto. "Don't think this is a cushy prize. Your training starts tomorrow. I promise... it'll be hell."

"Oh, please don't swear," Makoto pleads.

Act stares further. "What the shit are you-"

"Sensei, please! No foul language!"

"Oh... you're going to be a pain..." Act mutters.

As she walks off, you turn to Makoto. "Why?"

"Why what?"

You cross your arms. "What's your end goal? All this work to get stronger... what are you aiming for? Or do you plan on being a mystery forever?"

Makoto smiles. "I guess I owe you... as a rival. Okay... I'm preparing for the day or arrival."

"Day of arrival?"

"Put simply, I've been marked by the Elder One," he explains. "And when the day comes... I'll be bringing the Elder One back."

"What?"

Makoto chuckles. "I'll explain the full thing when we have the time. I'll see you later, Kazuma."

"What?!" you exclaim. "Hey! I'm more confused!"

He returns to his sister's side, who looks back at you. "What did you tell him?" she asks.

Makoto smiles wryly, as the two head back to the dorms.

Those two... even bigger mysteries than before. Who are they? What are they aiming for? And... are they truly on your side?

Mayu steps up to you, and gives a bow. "Kazuma... words can not express my anger at your refusal."

"I... I'm sorry-" you stammer.

"But when you explained yourself... I understood," she explains. "You believe in Kazuma Asai... and I believe in you as well. I support your journey to find your own style, and I have faith that you will accomplish the goal. I... I can only apologise..."

Mayu's eyes begin to water, as she keeps her head low to hide them. "Mayu?" you ask.

"I can only apologise for being too weak to help you..." she mutters. "I have come up short, time and time again. You have passed me by. As a training partner, I would... only... drag you down."

>That's not true. You just had a bad day, that's all.
>We're supposed to raise each-other up. That's what I'll do for you.
>I'm not going to be training with Roka any time soon. There's nobody better than you, Mayu.

>>4235071
>>We're supposed to raise each-other up. That's what I'll do for you.

>>4235071
>I'm not going to be training with Roka any time soon. There's nobody better than you, Mayu.
>I doubt I could have gotten this far without you

>>4235071
>Headpats
>We're supposed to raise each-other up. That's what I'll do for you.

>>4235071
>>I'm not going to be training with Roka any time soon. There's nobody better than you, Mayu.
Makoto possesed by the Elder One confirmed for last boss.

>>4235071
>>I'm not going to be training with Roka any time soon. There's nobody better than you, Mayu.

Calling for
>I'm not going to be training with Roka any time soon. There's nobody better than you, Mayu.

Writing now.

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>I'm not going to be training with Roka any time soon. There's nobody better than you, Mayu.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aTaj2QfQPJ8

Mayu shakes her head, droplets of tears falling from her face as she struggles to keep her cool. "But I... I failed, Kazuma. Where could I go from here?"

You smile, and place a hand on her shoulder. "I have no idea... but we'll find out, won't we?"

"Hmm?"

"We just gotta keep pressing forward, you know?" you explain. "Keep running alongside each-other, and we'll reach our goals. Same as we've always done."

"Yeah!" Kiriko exclaims as she bounces between the both of you. "You can never count us out! Hands in, on three!"

The three of you put your hands atop each-other. "Ya-hooooo!" you and Kiriko exclaim, though Mayu's hand stays still. "Mayu!" Kiriko smacks her own forehead. "You're supposed to yell and cheer!"

"I see..." Mayu nods.

"Okay, again on-"

"No, I see now..." Mayu gives a rare smile. "As long as we work together... I was always alone. To think, it has been almost a year since I met you two... where has the time gone? I... wish I could have met you two earlier in life."

"Oh, same!" Kiriko chimes in. "That would have been so great! Okay, on three!"

"Y-yahoo..." an unsure Mayu mumbles as you throw your hands up.

You look to Kiriko and Mayu. Together... the three of you will keep running. Keep improving. This tournament taught you that...

You look to your side, the black haired boy walking back to the dorms, his hands in his pockets. Yes, even you Roka...

>In another life

"What are you two clowns doing this time?"

Kiriko approaches you and Roka in the middle school courtyard, observing the two of you with wooden swords and a video camera.

"It's a Star Wars fan movie!" you explain.

Kiriko shakes her head. "Geez, so embarrassing... have you cast a princess Leia yet?"

"We're actually basing it in the Old Republic era," Roka explains.

"Fine then, can I-"

"We already cast a Bastilla."

"Who?!"

And with that, Mayu pops from behind Kiriko, a beaming smile on her face. "Sorry Kiriko... I intended to tell you in class."

"Betrayal!"

"I was just so excited," Mayu admits. "A chance to tell a poetic story through the art of swordplay... I knew I wouldn't be able to keep it brief if I told you."

"Whatever..." Kiriko sighs. "You guys still on for the movies tonight?"

You nod, and Mayu smiles. "Kazuma-san, it was my turn to choose the movie. I know Roka-san is excited for the new Red Mask film-"

"Hell yeah I am!" Roka grunts.

"B-but I b-believe it will still be available this time next week... so I chose Life and Love in the Time of Bushido... it's a historical romance... i-if that kind of thing interests you, Kazuma-san?"

"Look, she's blushing!" Kiriko exclaims.

"I... I am not!"

"I would love that," you smile.

"No Red Mask, eh..." Roka grumbles. "Fine, but Maita-san still owes me popcorn!"

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"I only took some last time! Not like you were going to eat THAT much!"

"Are you kidding?! I always eat that much!"

You laugh... what times these could have been.

>Reality

"So... that's how it went, huh?" Chuichi coughs.

You nod. "Yeah... Makoto won. How are you holding up?"

"I'm not too bad," he explains. "It's honestly pretty minor. I'll be back in Act's gym class by tomorrow-"

"I meant emotionally," you reply.

"Ah..." he hangs his head low. "Better... Kaz, what happened with Kaiya... it's hard being faced with something you lost. I understand why Keiji-senpai does what he does... but is it really better to hold onto something you've already lost? I think about my parents... what would I have done to keep them around? It's hard to face the reality... you can do everything right, and still suffer for it. Sometimes... you lose things."

"Yeah..." you reply. "It's never easy."

Chuichi smiles. "Well... it's better to look at the silver linings, right? Like how much more we can still gain! It's not a zero sum game."

"That's right!" Mio chimes in, leaning over. "You've even got a date with a special someone tomorrow..."

Chuichi smiles. "Are you trying to cheer me up, or are you bragging about yourself?"

"Do you think I'd brag about being on a date with you?"

"I dunno, I've proven to be quite the catch lately," Chuichi jokes.

You smile, and leave the two to arranging their dinner plans as you step out into the hallway. There... you see Kaiya leaning against the wall. "Meat boy..." she mutters.

"Are you starting to remember?" you ask.

"Gone..." she mutters, before looking at you. "I've enjoyed our talks."

An oddly direct response. Not coated in metaphor or anything. "Oh... thanks," you reply. "We didn't talk much, but every one left an impression on me."

"I too..." she hangs her head low. "The future..."

You scratch the back of your head. "It's a tricky topic, isn't it? I can't attest to having visions or prophecies like you, but... I don't know. Is it really that set in stone."

"I would wish..." Kaiya mutters. "Our chats have truly been pleasant. It's a shame..."

"Shame?"

"After this..." Kaiya notes. "We'll never speak again. It has been good... Shadow of a shadow. After today... it breaks. Be ready."

What's that supposed to mean? And that nickname...

As Kaiya walks off, Anri approaches you. "Kazuma... we'll be making a trip tomorrow."

"That's sudden," you explain. "Where to?"

Anro fixes her jacket. "With help from Hoshi-senpai, we may finally be able to return to the scene of Yasunari's demise... it's been almost a year, but I think we'll finally be able to find out what happened to him."

"Your case is coming to a close, eh? You think we'll actually find any answers there?" you ask.

Anri shakes her head. "I can't be sure... but if this doesn't work, the case is dead. So I have to believe it will... besides, I think I've deduced who did it."

END OF EPISODE 35

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

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

>Twitter
https://twitter.com/bookerman32

>Discord
https://discord.gg/yz7sDra

Thanks for playing! We just crossed over the four year anniversary of this quest! Thanks for following for all this time, next thread soon! Follow the Twitter for any updates!

>Player Questions
What were your thoughts on Act's tournament? Where do you stand on the Shibata twins? Where will Kaz, Kiriko, Mayu and Roka go from here? And what is Kaiya talking about?

>>4235137
Time to close the case. Thanks for the run Booker!
>>4235144
1. Kaz Vs Roka was great, the best fight scene yet.
2. Makoto is going to be sacrificed to bring the Elder One back.
3. Just fighting and getting better.
4. Obviously, D-day is coming.

>>4235144
>Where will Roka go from here

Straight into the Non Recyclable, Non Compostable , Burnable trash pile

Thanks for Running Booker
Rip Chihiro, her BF is just a temporary place holder for the return of Super Satan
She will never emotionally recover from this when Makoto stops existing and the Elder One takes his place