#Not even Shirogane-san can stop me...

[a-student-out-of-time]

Uh oh, things are getting tense...

I-It's not me. I swear it's not.

A-Are you saying this just because you don't like me?

Oh, do you want me to go into detail? I'd be happy to.

All I've seen out of you is an entitled, spoiled brat who starts arguments and can never let things go. And yet, somehow, Hajime still loves you. But what have you ever done for him?

I've been supporting Hajime since he started at all this! I care about him! I love him!

And what have you done for him, anyway? You and his dad were never there for him!

You have absolutely no idea what you're talking about.

Yes, I do! Hajime told me himself. He told me you guys never supported him, and you signed off on the Kamukura Project even knowing it was! Like you didn't even care at all!

...Is that what he told you? Really?

Then let me ask: what's Hajime's favorite food? Favorite color? Favorite holiday? Did he tell you about his grandfather? His uncle who was murdered?

...

...

You really don't know, do you? Then you have no right to claim anything about me, Hiroshi or our relationship with him.

You want the truth? Hajime always admired Hope's Peak Academy. He dreamed of going to that school, to prove he was special. And sure, Hiroshi, Dad and I did everything in our power to try and dissuade him. We tried to convince him that it wasn't as great as he believed it was.

And every time...he thought we were telling him he couldn't be special. He was a child, he didn't understand the things that we saw there. But we had NO IDEA about that goddamn project or what they had in mind for him...

...But, what else were we supposed to do? Just deny Hajime his dreams? Have him resent us for the rest of our lives. I know how much of a terrible idea it is to tell yourself, "Someday, they'll understand." All they'll remember is that you denied them or rejected them, and that'll hang over your relationship with them for the rest of your life.

So don't you dare tell me I don't care about Hajime. As much as he hates me, I'm doing this because his well-being matters to me. That's why I plan on being the one to kill Shirogane, so he doesn't have to.

But congratulations, Nanami-san. You and Hajime really are a match made in heaven, aren't you?

Th-That's not...wh-why would Hajime not tell me that....

Please, can we stop arguing? Now isn't the time for this...

[2a8n]

Shirogane's dream - Monologues

As I promised, we will be covering monologues in the Shirogane's dream and some of his changes in the Ice Scream Remake in a separate post. Here will be purely my reflections, as always. However, I would also like to see your thoughts on this theme. And now let's get started!

Wowww, you're so weak. "Wow, you are so disgusting." Well, did he start behaving less disgustingly from this? ( - _ - ) Crying from a mere orca punch? Gross. Has our hot-tempered penguin ever found Shirogane crying? And what's more, did Shiro tell him why he was crying? Could this be the reason why our depressed wolf is now hiding from everyone to cry, and can not really tell anyone about his experiences? Just be quiet. Hmm… Shirogane said something to our polar bear, but in response she just shut him up? It's curious. Usually Rocma starts a dialogue with Shiro, who in turn either remains silent or answers her with monosyllabic sentences like "I'm sorry", "I'm sorry… (next comes the answer to the question she asked)", etc. I can remember a moment from manga, when our wolf was indignant at what she said instead of "Thank you", but she only ignored him and continued to talk about her own. Hey, Shirogane! You're looking stupid as always! Shirogane seems to have an over-hyper fixation on his appearance, since Suno-san refers to it more than once when verbally insulting a wolf. It is likely that this is due to the scars that were once inflicted on Shiro's body and on his face. These scars apparently bother him so much that he doesn't want anyone to see and/or mention them at all (he even hid the scar on his face from Yukisada, his friend, at one of DSP's official works).

….. ….. It reminded me of the moment in Ice Scream Round 3 where Yukisada had to remain silent for most of Rocma's scolding with roughly the same facial expression. ♪ Looks like someone was in a good mood. Too bad Shirogane can't boast the same… =( Hi, doggy! ♪ I'll give you a nice punch in the face. Even railroads could envy his directness. Really nothing to add. You really are pathetic, huh… Peraco seemed to hope that he wasn't pathetic (by the standards of the inhabitants of Iceberg Isle, I guess), but Shiro couldn't live up to her expectations. You're lower than a seal, you moron. If "seal" means Mafuyu, it's rather strange that you don't call her by her name, Rock.

H-Hey, don't say such mean things, everybody! Yukisada is the only one who tries to stand up for Shirogane. Our kindhearted owl is even ready to go against the majority opinion for him. I respect. I'll give you something to cry about. If you finally get off this isle, then believe me, everyone will cry. From happiness. =) I'm just speechless. When someone is speechless, they usually don't say anything, so don't lie to us, Rocma. ? We are often shown Mafuyu from a fragments of Shirogane's memories. I don't understand, why he pays quite a lot of attention to her, despite the fact that the seal girl herself, based on what is shown, doesn't do a lot of things. You're like a water flea about to die! Have you… seen a dying water flea somewhere? In the North? Or is it usually on TV at the Peraco's house?

Weakling! Worm! Wood louse! And now I'm even more inclined to think that they learned about the water flea, the worm, the wood louse, the caterpillar and the bees from the TV in the Peraco's house… Hey! Shirogane's crying! Stop it! Shiro upset that Yukisada has to stand up for him? Does he feel guilty that his friend has to do this, or is Shirogane ashamed that he can't take care of himself? Ahahahaha! You big baby! Look at the big baby! Here, Suno-san is trying to play on the shame of our pessimistic wolf. But, judging by the words of the snowman, there must be someone else (maybe Yukisada?) in order for the effect to be more tangible from what he said to him. You're dead, kiddo. Heh, it's funny that Rock in Ice Scream Original addressed our wolf not as "Shi*ogane", but as "kiddo". It's kind of a sad that DSP decided to remove it. ….. ….. Now I believe that you have speechless, Rocma. True. ( 0 v 0 )

The part of the post dedicated to my reflections on the monologues from Shirogane's dream is over. Next will be my thoughts about the remade version of the same monologues from the Ice Scream Remake. I will not draw any definite conclusions, since this is purely reasoning on what has been said, some of which doesn't carry a large semantic load in the context of the Ice Scream itself as a whole. And now - to the finish line!

Silence yourself. | Just be quiet. The sentence has been changed, but the meaning is the same. Here, rather, the difference will be in which of the options we have for what Rocma said, rudeness and harshness towards Shirogane will be more noticeable. ♪ | ♪ You won't see anything new here. You can safely skip. Crying just because a big bad orca hit you? Gross. | Crying from a mere orca punch? Gross. "Big bad orca" -> "Big bad wolf"; that's funny. I think in the "big bad orca" version, Rock's derogatory attitude towards the Shirogane's situation is much seen stronger than in the other case. You are seriously pathetic. | You really are pathetic, huh… Here, Peraco's disappointment towards Shiro is no longer noticeable due to the unfulfillment of her hopes in his person. Now she just thinks he's pathetic. Heya, Shirogane! Your face is looking as stupid as ever! | Hey, Shirogane! You're looking stupid as always! Now Suno-san puts more emphasis in insults not so much towards the whole appearance of our pessimistic wolf, but towards his face. Hmm… Woaaah, eww. You're really weak. | Wowww, you're so weak. In the Original Idate showed feigned surprise at the wolf's weakness. In the Remake, he pretends that Shirogane's weakness is comparable to stepping on a poop, I guess.

Hey, everyone, don't say such mean things to him! | H-Hey, don't say such mean things, everybody! Yukisada is still the voice of adequacy in this madhouse, but, for some reason, the moment with his silence was cut in the Remake (I marked in purple what wasn't in the Remake). You're even worse than a seal, you absolute fool. | You're lower than a seal, you moron. Rock began to place more emphasis on insults towards Shiro. Considering that it is written in his bio that he takes out his disappointment on the poor guy, it becomes clear what DSP is trying to focus on. You wussy! Worm! Weevil! | Weakling! Worm! Wood louse! Nothing new has appeared. It's just that now we know that you can also see weevils on TV in the Peraco's house. You're like a water flea 3 second from its death. | You're like a water flea about to die! Given that both the in-game bio and his chart explicitly state that he has depression, I don't even know if Suno-san is trying to emphasize that Shiro is more dead than alive, or he looks like he's about to die… ( 0 _ 0 ) C'mhere, you worthles mutt. Let me give you a good punch. | Hi, doggy! ♪ I'll give you a nice punch in the face. Wolf, loser dog, pathetic puppy, doggy, worthles mutt… What's next? Mongrel? Squeak toy…?

Hey! Don't you feel bad for Shirogane? Stop it! | Hey! Shirogane's crying! Stop it! Yukisada, in my opinion, the normal attitude of others towards your friend should come not from their desire to feel sorry for him, but from their desire not to do bad things towards him… Ahahahaha! Crybaby! You snot-nosed wimp! | Ahahahaha! You big baby! Look at the big baby! In both cases, as for me, the phrases sound provocative. It's hard to explain without the context of what Suno-san has basically been saying all this time in the game. ? | ? You won't see anything new here. You can safely skip. How about I make you cry again? | I'll give you something to cry about. You won't see anything new here. You can also safely skip. I am so done with you. I have nothing left to say. | I'm just speechless. Now her phrase in the Remake sounds more like "preachy", and makes sense: in Watch 1, we were even shown how Rocma tried to Shirogane verbally "guide on the right path" while he was bleeding.

I'll kill you. | You're dead, kiddo. Bye-bye, kiddo… ( v _ v )

[wildxcardrebel]

@fatexbound

Ren stroked his chin as he contemplated the detective's words. "There's just so much about this that doesn't make sense to me. I mean, I've looked at that one website where you can send requests for them and there's so many stories about them changing people's hearts, even after what happened with Okumura. But maybe I'm just an optimist who wants to see the good in people." He shrugged.

"Ah, it was no trouble at all. Thank you for your patronage, Shirogane-san. I hope we can speak again sometime. Take care." He told Naoto as she left. Once the door was closed, he let out a sigh of relief. "If I can talk to her more, she might be willing to see things on our side. Shirogane Naoto..." He took out his phone and searched her name. "Shirogane Detective Agency, here in Tokyo. I should stop by when I can."

@wildxcardrebel

Another nod was given and another note was written down in her notebook. It made sense now, how Okumura was attending a private and prestigious school such as Shujin. However, even corporate leaders had no clue about what was really going on inside the school. Only those who cared for the students' safety. Perhaps it's high time she paid a visit. Tomorrow. She was too exhausted now.

At his query, she shook her head. "I do not know. It's not my business to know, technically, since this is Akechi-san's case. What I do know is that forcing a confession out of a criminal is against the law, and murder is... like I said, the last resort." Her hand clutched her mug, anger seeping through it as she closed her eyes and thought back on the Inaba kidnapping and murder case with her friends. "Unforgivable, in other words, no matter what the motive may be."

"So then... thank you again for the coffee." She said in reply after finishing everything and wiping her mouth with a napkin, standing up afterward and bowing to the young man. "Have a good rest of your evening, Amamiya-san." As she left, she bowed and told the same to Sakura outside.

[jesterofinaba]

Taiyaki wasn’t exactly the thing to give a university student, it was well known as a typical snack for kids, but from the little bits and pieces she’d gleamed from Adachi directly, and whatever Shirogane said was enough to paint a less than pleasant picture. 

Her family back in Osaka had sent one box too many, and while it was from her favorite store, Kei figured giving it to someone would be better than letting it grow stale after leaving it somewhere in her dorm room. Shirogane was planning to invite Adachi out for dinner at some fancy sushi place, and while she was invited—because she was Adachi’s friend (apparently) and his friend—but she declined because being the third wheel was less than optimal.

And Shirogane was Adachi’s best friend. University could be a soul sucking experience and letting those two have time to themselves was better than her sitting awkwardly off to the side, or them forcing themselves to remember that she existed and to include her in the conversation.

“Shirogane said today’s your birthday. It’s not much, but I wanted to do something, so here.” She handed the box of taiyaki over, mildly embarrassed and half wished she could have given him anything else, like... a book. Everyone liked books.

“It has a couple of different fillings, azuki, custard, chocolate, green tea. It’s from my favorite store, so I guess this makes it... vaguely special.” It implies thought was put into. Something from a favorite store, one she used to go to as a kid, it carries a positive connotation.

That she cared about Adachi, even if she didn't know if they were friends or just plain old acquaintances and—

Jesus.

“I better go now, take care and enjoy yourself today.”

adachi's birthday

Tohru was still figuring out how exactly to receive a birthday present, even after the ones he'd gotten from Seiji and his grandfather. Naturally, one was supposed to thank them, but besides that? That nuance was much harder, especially for someone like Tohru, who was still figuring out this entire "make bonds" thing.

Naturally, he's flummoxed when she hands him a box of taiyaki and gives him her reasoning why.

"Oh, hey, thanks." The surprise is evident in his tone. "I... actually really like this stuff."

It was true, for what that was worth - even though the filled pastries were deemed a kid's snack, they were enough to sate Tohru's sweet tooth, and even though he doesn't eat much, he'll ration them out so he eats them before they go stale.

Ishikawa-san seemed nice enough. Honestly, Tohru had the feeling that if they could melt the ice surrounding their interactions a tad, they had enough similarities that they should be able to get along. Apparently Seiji was great at finding introverted, wry people and trying to get them to stop being sticks in the mud. He had a feeling that when she leaves, she was going to go back into a quiet dorm by herself and stay there, and that gives him a little tug at his heart that he knows by know is an opportunity to make a Connection with someone.

Which makes him stick out his hand to stop her from leaving.

"Wait." He didn't even know what he was going to say next. "Listen, I know we don't really... hang out, only with Seiji. We're going to dinner tonight, and you're invited of course, but... why don't we go to a bookstore? Just you and me. We can get to know each other a little bit. That way it can be a little more comfy when we all three hang out, yeah?"

[epitomees]

There’s a card in Naoto’s mailbox, a simple one expressing well wishes for her birthday. It says:

I heard it was your birthday today, Shirogane. I don’t know you as well as my nephew does, but I wanted to write you something.

We got off on the wrong foot when you were first called in and I was never able to formally apologize. I admit you dealt a blow to my pride, and that was a cause behind my snappy behavior during then. It might be water under the bridge between us now, but I still want to apologize for that and the other times. I’ve learned a lot from my nephew over the past year, so you can thank him for helping a stubborn old man.

My main point is: you’re a capable detective, Shirogane, and I know you’ve made your family proud. My doors are always open to you if you ever want to drop by and visit Nanako. She’s taken a shine to you and asks me when your next visit will be.

Take care, Dojima

P.S This is also a word from my nephew, but he’s expressed concern with the way you seem to forgo eating and sometimes sleep? I don’t know if what I say will change anything, but please eat and sleep a healthy amount. I don’t want you to destroy yourself when you’ve got a long life ahead of you.

Much to Naoto’s relief, birthdays lasted for a single day. Celebrations came and went with the setting sun, and just like that each day after remained just the same. Time ticked away, leaving those cherished memories in the past where they belonged. 

It’d been months since Naoto’s own celebratory event. She arrived home that day, after being dragged to a surprise party courtesy of Rise, drained of any social energy. Grandpa greeted her as any other time with a head bow and handed her a card addressed for her. A birthday card, from Dojima-san. At first glance, Naoto took it without a hint of curiosity. She didn’t bother opening it upon entering her room, or even have the desire to read what was inside. 

So it stayed hidden, piled beneath disheveled mounds of paper...forgotten...

Until the day Naoto finally decided a much-needed summer clean up was in order. Clearing her desk of unnecessary items and dusting off her shelves found herself holding the sealed birthday card once again. The colored envelope lost some of its vibrancy since she last saw it. With a disgruntled sigh, she began carefully tearing away the glued flap. Why not take a look now in case Dojima-san asked her about it the next time they saw each other. Whenever that may be...

The front of the card was decorated with simple designs, swirls and tight curls adorning the classic message in the middle. Opening the inside, however, garnered Naoto’s attention a little more. His crude handwriting was hard to miss, considering she memorized it off of official police papers and documents. Grey-blue eyes simply skimmed his words. She didn’t pay much attention to his message...but then suddenly stopped.

‘You’re a capable detective, Shirogane, and I know you’ve made your family proud.’ 

...Naoto started from the beginning. This time, carefully reading over each word he wrote. While the distaste of Dojima-san and his co-workers’ treatment of her assistance never left, and would never be forgotten, somehow his crafted message managed to strike her. Not many former clients or agencies ever bothered reaching out for apologies, not even of his caliber. A simply thank you card, a case being locked down or closed, even a formal handshake ended Naoto’s contracts more times than not. No one bothered taking up the responsibility for treating the young detective as a mere tool for their benefit. She’s still a kid, after all. 

‘I still want to apologize for that and the other times.’ 

While some nagging part of Naoto believed it to be Dojima covering his own tracks, she couldn’t deny the truth written down. One read-through didn’t satisfy Naoto. Two didn’t either, and neither would three. Each time made the knot in her chest tighten, her hands tightly grip the cardboard material, and her breathing resort to intaking deeper breaths. 

What was this doing to her? Why did she feel a strange satisfaction over something simple as an apology? 

Thankfully, no one other than Hercule saw the moment where Naoto’s composure broke. Several counted breaths returned her to normal, and after folding the note into equal squares she slipped it inside the top desk organizer. No longer hidden, but in sight...just in case Naoto ever felt a need to re-read it again. If that ever happened...

Tomorrow didn’t seem quite as busy. Perhaps a visit to see Nanako was in order. 

[thedetectiveofinaba]

Title: Signs of Empathy

Word count: 1052

Context: this, this and this. 

Naoto couldn’t put well in words how the single comment from the four IT members had ruined the whole conversation for her. The rest of it had felt false and wrong: it was like everyone had kept a façade over the overall for a reason she didn’t understand. Everyone who were in that room could sense the tension in that moment and it was awkward for all parties: she’d even felt sad in behalf of Yosuke who had messed up with his comment to begin with and it was least to say conflicting. 

Her acting like Yu in Junes HQ meetings had been directly influenced by this: she had stated the upcoming plans without acknowledging purely just to get things done and to get something else to focus on. Not thinking about this farce had prevented her sanity decreasing from this and some new elements what might have been introduced might have confused her more. 

Naoto had thought how the intense group practice and not talking with Rise would have stopped that train of thought, but the reality was how she needed to talk things out before it escalated before their impromptu rescue mission. When the team had their first break she was still fuming and not motivated to talk anyone who had trash talked Yosuke. Her thoughts about the event were raging like a stormy sea and the biggest issue she had now was that didn’t know how to address the elephant in the room. 

I don't understand these people. They claim to be friends yet insult Yosuke-san after he had no defenses any more: a more effective tactic would have been to glare at him and let him notice how painfully slow time passed with an awkward silence. Overkilling the situation with using the harsh selection of words brought her more frustration since the girls of IT apparently owned less empathy and patience than she had thought. She knew how he was a headache to deal with at times, but he wasn’t the worst person. More like Sofue-sensei was the worst one.

Yosuke leaving the room for a reason she didn’t gave her an opportunity, which she took and called out to him after she had exited the room without saying a word to anyone. ”…Yosuke-san, do you mind if I spoke with you for a second?”

“Sure, Naoto-kun!” She could see from his expression how he was disappointed on not getting Kanami’s autograph but was still energetic about the whole coming day and the Midnight Stage trip they’d have to deal with. The confirmation on how she wasn’t interrupting him too much was all she needed as an encouragement.

You can do it, Shirogane. “It’s, uh… nothing too serious. I merely wanted you to know that if the girls of IT bring up the topic they were too harsh to you about again, I will defend you with all of my energy. Their reaction was least to say unreasonable and despicable to witness as person who often prefers to be direct and civil.” Naoto clarified how she understood in a sense why they for awfully defensive about Inaba, but the end result had been unreasonable for him. She was pretty sure how it was unlikely to happen but after that fiasco she wanted to double-check her senpai wasn’t insulted like that again. If they dared to question her intentions they’d regret the decision on that they’d get the verbal beating they deserved and a she’d demand them to think about how they would feel if they received the same insult.

Yosuke was visibly confused and it was clear how he wasn’t on the same page as she was. “Wait, you’re still thinking on that? Was this why you didn’t talk with Rise-san like you usually did on during the group practice?” She nodded and mentioned how she needed a short break from talking with them or at least a confirmation on them not planning to be more malicious towards anyone in IT. It'd affect the group's morale and she wouldn’t let that happen for any price. “We have a long day regarding the planned events and I do not want anyone bickering for useless reasons when the Shadows are as vicious as they were to me. It is a risk on team safety and would affect the team morale heavily.”

Naoto’s direct concern caused Yosuke to ask what Naoto had thought, and after receiving her blunt answer on them insulting him for no proper reason since the intended message had already been delivered he waved his arms in front of him and mentioned how they hadn’t meant to sound like assholes at all. 

“Repeat that again, Yosuke-san. Do you really mean that their attempt was to not sound like an insult to your self-worth and like they were inconsiderate jerks?” If that had been their attempt, it had lead to her being irritated for no reason and to get another reason to take a small break from Investigation Team after this. This happening more than twice in same year was too much for her. "Yep. I know it sounds harsh, especially if you aren't in the loop of how the rest of the team and I roll. Seriously, it's fine."

I fucking doubt that. I need proof from them that this mannerism is something what occurs more often in a casual tone. She shrugged and mentioned how she would still call them out if they’d try to overdo the earned callout comment again: she wasn’t taking her words back and believed in the principle of less is more in everything. 

“Thanks, I suppose…? It’s not really necessary but I really appreciate it.” He seemed to brighten up from the lack of emotional consistency and smiled at Naoto. He received a nod with a slight smile back: it was odd how reassurance and a clear sign on how she was wanted as company improved her mood every time. Especially specific people she cared about like Yosuke, Rise and Yu managed to have that effect on her. 

“You’re welcome, Yosuke-san. Shall we join the others before they continue the practice without us?” The duo walked back to the dance practice room and unlike earlier, the silence was calmer from the cleaner atmosphere and the worst issue being dealt with for now.

[magioftheseas]

Komamami would be interesting, whether platonic or romantically

Anon I sure hope you meant Komaeda/Amami and not Komaeda/Nanami because I went ham on this.

It’s not platonic or romantic, but I did think it’d be fun to write Pregame AU for once.

Ao3 Link Here.

When it comes to survival, there are all kinds of stats and skills at play. Whether it be offense, defense, evasion, stealth, strategy, so on and so forth. This is why as he’s filling out the form, there’s a lot to think about.

“There are talents that act as bolsters for strength,” he muses. He taps the application paper before him. “But wouldn’t it be better if you had a talent for charisma? In that case, it’d be easier to gather up allies as well as pawns.”

Of course, there was one stat that so easily flipped things regardless of skill.

Luck.

In the second killing game, the one who defeated Ultimate Despair had been Ultimate Luck, later dubbed the appropriate Ultimate Hope. It set the stage for the rest of the franchise, and a good number of contestants salivated at the chance to be the next Ultimate Hope. That sort of wishful entitlement only grew with Danganronpa’s popularity. Even at his own school, Naegi Makoto had been a symbol to aspire towards.

While he did think Naegi Makoto was fine, he didn’t forget about the other Ultimate Luck.

Komaeda Nagito more accurately encompassed what others turned out as in their pursuits of Ultimate Hope. Desperate, simpering, frantic, helpless, hopeless—the kind of person the most and worst suited for destruction.

Someone who still couldn’t help but survive regardless of their efforts. A puppet on a string dragged from place to place, manipulated with ease even as it squirmed and struggled.

Someone like that represented others well, despite themselves.

He didn’t resent them. He didn’t have any ill feelings towards Komaeda Nagito. If anything, that brand of incessant survival was the main appeal. Among...other things.

--

“In the end, there’s no increase or decrease of hope as the show goes on,” he says. “It’s just a dreary cycle at this point and one we can’t escape but can’t imagine life without.”

“Geez,” Shirogane pouts at him. “When you put it that way, it sounds a little despairing!”

“It’s not despair,” he corrected. “More...complacency.”

“That’s even worse!”

“Komaeda Nagito was pretty complacent, wasn’t he?” he asks. “Despite framing his aspirations and efforts as intended to evoke hope, all he was doing was playing to the tune of the crumbling world around him. There were justifications to be made, of course. Can’t have hope without overcoming despair. Can’t know happiness without sorrow. Can’t know light without darkness. Regardless of the journey, as long as you reach your destination...”

“Aah, stop, stop!” Shirogane waved her hands frantically. “I don’t care! I really don’t!”

“Geez,” he mimicked her before. “I thought you were a Danganronpa superfan, Shirogane-san.”

“I am, I am,” she insisted. “But, you know, there’s just... That’s a way of thinking that I don’t care for.”

“Because it exposes the artifice?” he can only smile. “Honestly, I like that about Komaeda Nagito. Naegi Makoto is too...sincere for me.”

And for the rest of the world, for that matter. It’s Komaeda who is more realistic.

“You’re way too cynical for Danganronpa!” Shirogane exclaimed with an accusatory finger. “In that case, why even join?!”

“Ahahaha. Well, it is either this or nothing. Everything else is quite boring. I guess you can blame it on the fact that I’m aimless.” Tilting his head back, rubbing his nape, he couldn’t help but smile blankly at the dreary ceiling. Even with Shirogane’s bright personality, there was no undercutting this monotony. It was no wonder anyone would fixate on Danganronpa, especially those more anxious. Like Shirogane. “I guess for me, it’s about...the experience. The adventure, you know?”

Shirogane harrumphed, unimpressed.

“Then, you better not die first.”

She’s not looking at him anymore, but the tightening in her face suggests that she’s quite upset. So upset that he almost wants to reassure her, but he doesn’t even try to reach for her. It’s like he can’t even muster up the energy.

Yeah, he thinks blandly, unimpressed with himself. I need the experience.

--

In the waiting period, he does slip on the VR. He slips it on his head, lays back, flicks the switch, and opens his eyes.

It’s an eternal summer sun above, with Komaeda Nagito peering down at him.

“Hey—can you hear me? Are you alright?”

It should be meaningless. Just a video game character reciting the same lines of text. No variation, no matter how many times the game gets rebooted. Everything—including this person was just lines of code locked in a purgatory of repetition, all at the mercy of mere clicks of the button.

He clicks through, and eventually, Komaeda Nagito reaches out. Offers his hand. It’s not to him, not really. Even in this position, he’s all too aware that he’s just playing another mindless character. One that grips Komaeda Nagito’s hand uncomfortably tight and pulls himself up. One that just—like everyone else in this world—just wants to feel special and important.

It’s pitiful, really, but when Komaeda Nagito gives a sweet, reassuring, calming smile...

He feels something.

--

“Have you submitted your application?”

He doesn’t know why Shirogane would inquire this beyond boredom. He offers her a wry smile, and it just causes her face to scrunch up. Her brow furrows for good measure.

“I’m asking because I’m curious,” she said. “I need to know what I’m potentially working with! Not that I’m going to give you special treatment even with our history.”

“I don’t expect you to,” he laughed without amusement. “We never did get along. We’re not really friends.”

“Because your attitude is unpleasant,” she said; as if that were a defense. As if this strained relationship needed any kind of justification. He found himself wishing that Shirogane would just take things in stride sometimes. But, Shirogane has more to press, “Can you tell me what you put down?”

“Amami Rantarou,” was his reply. “How does that sound?”

Her face just sours more.

“I was thinking Ultimate Adventurer, maybe?” he goes on. “Just because—I do care more about the journey than the ending. I was thinking about Ultimate Luck, yes, but I have no delusions of grandeur, so...”

“I’ll say,” Shirogane muttered. “If I had it my way, you’d die first. The way Komaeda Nagito meant to. I think it’d suit you!”

He shrugged, but was there any point in denying it?

Still—what was up with Shirogane’s expression?

“You wouldn’t even be a good sacrifice,” she’s mumbling now, barely audible. “You’re just...too miserable, cynical, and untrusting.”

All he had to offer was yet another (worthless, hopeless, but calm and easy) smile.

[detectivesplotslies]

After We Get Out

Description: Kaede makes a cafe date with someone she hasn't seen since the game, despite her friend's warnings. Word Count: 1429

Read on AO3 here

Out the window fat snowflakes fluttered through the air, some sticking to the glass, some joining the grey slush in the street as people crowded the sidewalk. Mud and snow mixed and tracked on people’s boots, trailing in puddles into the little cafe. In her corner booth near the window, Kaede was glad to be out of it for a bit. She traced a finger along the chilly glass, drawing out the staff and bars. Idly she plotted the clef and notes to a song in the condensation, wondering if this was as terrible an idea as everyone else had thought it was. She lifted her finger from her budding verse, slick with the cold and wet of the outdoors and lightly wiped it on her sleeve. When she glanced up she realized her guest had arrived.

Standing next to the table, almost tentatively waiting for an invitation or permission, was a familiar bespectacled girl, her long blue hair tied in a braid, and peppered in already melting powder snow. Tsumugi Shirogane looked largely the same as she remembered, her vacant eyes, pale and smooth features. Kaede had thought her pretty when they first met too. The cosplayer hadn’t really been around when they had all come to, due to tensions. She was honestly surprised she looked this way both in and out of the game. So many of the others couldn’t quite live up to the selves they expected in the mirror. Kaede sure didn’t see the picture perfect pianist in her own memories.

“Shirogane-san, please sit down,” Kaede said quickly, gesturing to the seat across from her, where the second menu sat. Tsumugi stares at her like a deer in headlights a moment longer, before removing her scarf and sliding down the bench to the offered spot. She mumbled a greeting, keeping her eyes down the entire time. The menu was now a subject of keen interest, apparently. Kaede sighed a bit. She wasn’t sure what she had expected honestly. “Wasn’t hard to find the place, was it?”

“Ah, no it was pretty close to the station, like you said,” Tsumugi replied, adjusting her glasses and glancing to the side.

“Good,” Kaede said brightly, smiling. She didn’t see it.

The silence stretched on as Tsumugi removed her coat. It finally broke when the waitress came around. She took out her notepad and pencils and flashed them a grin.

“Welcome, are you ladies ready to order?”

“Oh, I think we’ll need a minute, she just got-”

“I’ll have milk tea and an omurice special, thank you,” Tsumugi said, cutting her off, handing the menu back. Kaede blinked.

“Uh, I’ll have one, too then! With a melon soda.”

The waitress wrote the orders down and headed back to the kitchen with the menus. The two of them sat opposite each other awkwardly. Kaede smiled again, wincing as Tsumugi’s eyes drifted to the window with no menu to read anymore. She had to take the initiative here, didn’t she.

“So, Shirogane-san, you look good. How have you been?”

“I’ve been the same.”

A pause.

“Well, that’s good to hear! I’ve been doing okay, I just got a new job and-”

“Akamatsu, why did you invite me here?”

“-it’s not music but- huh?”

“Why did you ask me to meet with you? Did something happen? Is this about your contract, or is there an issue? What is it?”

Tsumugi had finally met her eye, and looked so serious. Her eyebrows were drawn together as she searched Kaede’s face. The intensity rose out of nowhere as she leaned in. Kaede could see her own face reflected in her glasses as they fogged up. The blonde pressed back from the table as Tsumugi clasped her hand.

“What do you mean!? Nothing’s happened.”

“Is it paparazzi? Blackmail? I can’t help unless I know the details.”

“Shiroga-”

“I know you didn’t want to stay in contact with the company, but the resources are in place to protect your-”

“Tsumugi, stop! I’m fine!”

The blue haired woman stopped, confusion washing over her expression. The intensity gave way to a nervous look that was more recognizable. She retracted her hand and adjusted her glasses.

“Then, what did you need me for?”

Kaede ran a hand through the back of her hair, this time being the one to break eye contact as her cheeks brightened. No wonder scheduling this had been so easy. She hoped nothing important had been cancelled to run out and see her like this. Beating around the bush would only make matters worse, so Kaede swallowed her nerves and told the truth.

“I wanted to see you, and to try out this cafe together. I didn’t need anything.”

The waitress returned with their drinks, placing them on the table and utterly failing to read the awkward air as she asked if they wanted anything else while they waited. Kaede forced a polite smile, thanked her assuring they were fine. By the time she left, Tsumugi looked like she wanted a map to the conversation. She opened her mouth, and paused with it open. She closed it again. She looked up again, and finally spoke.

“Why?”

“Because we said we would when we got out, right?” Kaede stirred at her soda with her straw, bubbles sticking to it. “I know we didn’t get a lot of time to talk during… or after… but I meant what I said about us getting new hobbies, and maybe going out to cafes. Trying new things.” She sipped her soda, hoping her face wasn’t anywhere near as red as it felt.

“You still wanted to do that? With me?” Tsumugi tilted her head, incredulous in tone. “You watched the game, and you spoke to the others.”

“I did, but I also heard them talk about me, and I’ll be honest, they aren’t all the best judges of character. So I figure I can do some getting to know you myself, and then see what I think after it all. Though I guess I should have said that when I contacted you, haha, I just sort of assumed you meant what you said. Or that even if you didn’t, you wouldn’t mind? Kind of silly now that I’m saying it. I don’t really know how you see me.”

“I don’t mind, no,” Tsumugi adjusted her glasses and took a sip from her milk tea. There was some quiet as they both drank, the noise of the cafe around them light at this hour. She thoughtfully glanced back down and then continued, “But what do you mean how I see you? Shouldn’t it be the other way around?”

Kaede bent the plastic straw a little between her fingers and bit her lip. “Well, you know, the whole… fiction thing. You’re not like the rest of us, you’re… from here. To me I don’t think I’d be able to tell the difference really, but I would totally understand if you didn’t want to hang around with someone when you had a part in writing it all?” She paused letting the straw snap straight again. “With all you said about what’s real and-”

“NO!” The interruption is loud enough that the cafe gets a bit hushed. Outside the window though the snowy bustling world continued on, unperturbed. A bit flustered, Tsumugi shakes her head.

“I… a lot of what I said there was what needed to be said, to end the charade, but… I never thought of you as fake. Everything you said to me felt real, whether you knew the truth or not. You’re the one who realized your only hobby was piano, and made the plans. If anything I’m the one who’s fake. I don’t have the excuse of memories.” Tsumugi tugs at her braid almost anxiously, shame growing on her face.

“Well… can you let me see if I believe that then? While we try out cafes, or cooking or… something?”

“I… sure. I’d love to.”

They smiled at each other a moment, before becoming acutely aware that the waitress has been waiting for their exchange to end, grinning at the edge of their booth. She placed the meals down in front of them, complete with hearts drawn in ketchup on top of the omurice.

“Bon appetit~!” She said with a wink, before she skittered back to the counter. This time Tsumugi went beet red as Kaede laughed. They would definitely need to try some other cafes, lest they get a reputation at this one. The chatter returned in the other booths, they started the meal, and started over fresh.

[hajimes-erect-ahoge]

Postmortem- Chapter 2

Shuichi wakes up from the simulation

ao3

It was warm.

Now that the cage surrounding the school was destroyed, the remaining students of the killing game were able to bask in the direct sunlight beaming down on them.

Shoving aside the rock fragments surrounding them, the trio climbed out from the spot in which Kiibo had hid them so that they could survive their supposed execution. Harukawa stood in awe, taking in the sight of the post-apocalyptic atmosphere, while Saihara helped Yumeno get to her feet.

Standing up alongside Harukawa, Saihara and Yumeno quickly realized why she was so transfixed on their surroundings. A bright patch of light was illuminating the entire school grounds, shining brightly on the remains of what once was the Ultimate Academy for Gifted Juveniles. There was a gaping hole in the cage that once confined them, now open so that escape was an option to the trio.

Thank you, Kiibo.

Saihara couldn’t help but feel sentimental, knowing that their fallen classmates had once lived on this campus as well. They had all met each other here, slept in the dorms here, and ate breakfast together in the dining hall every morning. Saihara had trained with Momota and Harukawa in this very courtyard, also occasionally having meaningful conversations under the moonlight.

Despite the atrocities and betrayals that occurred during the killing game, Saihara had always had those two to depend on when he needed someone to turn to. Although Momota was no longer with them, he still had Harukawa, as well as Yumeno, and the three of them would escape this dreadful place together.

In unison, they all took a step forward: away from the Ultimate Academy and away from the killing game, but not away from the memories of their cherished classmates and the sacrifices they made for them.

…

A step… forward?

.

.

.

A w a y

F r o m

E v e r y t h i n g

Loading… 

-----------------

Saihara felt himself slowly drifting back into consciousness, but found himself unable to open his eyes. Thinking little of it, he tried to fall back asleep and continue whatever dream he was having…

Wait.

What was he dreaming about again?

That’s right… Harukawa, Yumeno and I were escaping from the killing game when… it happened.

The world started warping and twisting, swirling around into a dark and infinite nothingness. Reality itself seemed to freeze and morph into pitch black, almost as if the killing game itself was just a dream. 

...

There’s no way right?

The killing game… was fake? 

Saihara’s eyes shot open, only for him to discover that his vision was being blocked by an object. Removing said mysterious object from his face, he adjusted his vision to his surroundings.

What he saw was peculiar: he was laying in some sort of pod, a thick, light blue screen hovering just inches above his face, and the object that had once blocked off his vision appeared to be some sort of headset. Why this headset was once attached to his face was unknown, as well as what the hell he was doing just lying around in some mysterious pod.

With many questions swarming through his mind, Saihara placed his hands on the screen in front of him and pushed outwards, releasing himself from the pod’s confinement. He gingerly stepped out of the pod, observing his surroundings once more. There were numerous similarly structured pods arranged in a circle, and they all seemed to be open already, except for one. Upon counting the number of pods, Saihara concluded that there were fifteen in total.

Fifteen…? Does that mean… No, it can’t be true. There’s just no way that something like that is possible. Wouldn’t there be sixteen?

Saihara’s thought process was interrupted by the door to the room swinging open.

“Ah! Saihara-kun, you’re awake!”

A woman with blonde hair dressed in a nurse’s uniform walked in, carrying a pen and clipboard in one hand. Glancing down at the clipboard, she appeared to check something off before looking back up at Saihara.

“And that makes fourteen! Looks like almost everyone is awake now!” she smiled.

Saihara just stared at her, eyes wide and mind delirious with confusion.

“I know this must all be really confusing for you… I promise everything will make sense in just a bit. For now, why don’t we get you to your room? We’ll explain everything to you as quickly as possible so that you can see the others.” She gestured towards the door, motioning for Saihara to follow her.

“Ah… Okay…” Saihara replied, still not entirely sure what was going on.

He followed her out of the door and into the hallway, quickly realizing that he was in a hospital. Suddenly hyper-aware of his appearance, Saihara looked into a clear glass window that they passed by, observing his reflection in it. Noticing how disheveled his hair was, he promptly smoothed it down, not wanting to appear as disoriented as he felt. Before he even realized it, the nurse had stopped in front of a door to an open hospital room, motioning for him to walk in.

Doing as he was told, he walked into the empty room, observing how it looked like a standard hospital room. But why was he in a hospital in the first place?

“Why don’t you take a seat over there?” She gestured towards the open bed in the middle of the room, “We find it’s easier for patients to take the news while sitting down rather than while standing up, due to the, uh… nature of what we have to tell you.”

Saihara took a seat on the bed and looked at her expectantly. By now, he had pieced together what little information he had and had come to a conclusion, but, due to the low probability of that being the truth, he discarded that option as being the truth. Seeing as he didn’t have enough information to draw another conclusion, he simply waited for the truth to be told to him.

“So…” the nurse began, pulling over a nearby chair and sitting down, “I know this is going to be hard to hear, especially after all that you’ve been through… but the killing game was all just virtual reality. All of your classmates that you met are still alive and, although not everyone is awake yet, I’m sure they’re all eager to see you. Harukawa-san and Yumeno-san woke up earlier today, so I’m sure they’re expecting to see you.”

Shuichi just stared at her, processing the information he had just been told.

Everyone is still alive? So that means Momota and Akamatsu… no, everyone… is still alive? 

“Oh, but if you don’t feel up to visiting them yet then that’s totally fine! Take as much time as you need to rest! We don’t want you compromising your health at all! Although, since you didn’t actually experience a death in the simulation, there isn’t much for you to recover from… Though I suppose recovering mentally may take a while.”

“No…! I want to see everyone!” Saihara’s voice had suddenly returned, startling even himself as his voice echoed in the hospital room. He tightly gripped the edge of the bed, not realizing how tense his body had become.

Rather than being surprised, the nurse just chuckled.

“I see you’re feeling well after all! But before you go visit everyone, let me just explain a few more things to you.”

The nurse then proceeded to tell Saihara a variety of things, including how Shirogane was just an artificial intelligence program, and how their pregame selves had been completely destroyed, along with their memories of anything before the killing game. She then left Saihara alone to process all of this information before going out to see anyone, who she informed him would probably be in the dining hall, as breakfast time was approaching.

So everyone really is still alive… 

Logically, it made sense to him. When he had awoken, there were fifteen pods which, taking into consideration that Shirogane was an artificial intelligence program, accounted for all of the students. He had also noticed that there were fifteen hospital rooms during the walk to his room, further confirming his suspicions.

The truth is, from the moment he pulled that headset off and exited the pod, he knew that the killing game hadn’t truly happened. How else would that explain him suddenly waking up in a completely different place?

But he didn’t want to believe it.

There’s no doubt that he wanted his fellow classmates to be alive; In fact, there was nothing he wanted more than for everyone to be alive and well. But had every death he had experienced seeing really been fake? Saihara just thought it was too good to be true.

Apparently, though, it was true. And now Saihara had to confront that truth.

Collecting himself and his thoughts, Saihara pushed himself off the bed and exited the room.

--------------

“Mmm! These pancakes are so good, Tojo-san!” Akamatsu praised through a mouthful of pancakes, earning her an amused look from Amami.

“You got a little something there, babe.” Amami smiled,  wiping off a bit of syrup from Akamatsu’s upper lip with his finger.

Akamatsu giggled as she and Amami gazed lovingly at one another, the honeymoon phase of their blossoming relationship still going strong.

“Get a room you two! I can’t stand seeing a degenerate male being all lovey-dovey towards a female like that!” Chabashira announced, crossing her arms with disgust.

“And what about you and your girlfriend?” Amami asked jokingly.

Chabashira gasped dramatically before continuing:

“Leave Yumeno-san out of this you degenerate!” she cried, pointing at Amami accusingly.

“Nyeh… Leave me out of your petty arguments…” Yumeno adjusted her hat, avoiding eye contact with the other couple.

Just as Chabashira was preparing a threat for Amami, the doors to the dining hall slowly opened, indicating that whoever was coming in was trying not to cause a disturbance.

The dining hall fell silent, everyone staring at the now opened doorway. Everyone who was awake had gathered in the dining hall, leaving limited options as to who the new person coming in could be.

Feeling the numerous pairs of eyes on him, Saihara gently cleared his throat and shifted his eyes towards the ground. Before he even had a chance to speak, he was surrounded by his classmates, who were all clamoring with excitement.

“Saihara-kun!” Akamatsu was the first to greet him, throwing her arms around him in a warm embrace. “You’re awake! Finally!” She looked up at him with tears in her eyes, blissfully unaware that she had begun crying.

“Shuichi! Nice seeing you again, bro!” Momota’s familiar voice boomed throughout the dining hall, making his presence known to Saihara.

Saihara smiled warmly at the growing crowd around him, his eyes flitting to and fro between the many occupants of the room surrounding him. He was a bit overwhelmed at seeing all the people who he had previously thought were dead perfectly alive and well, but the joy swelling in his chest overpowered those feelings.

“Y-Yeah… Good to see you again!” He looked up at Momota, smiling at him confidently.

“Everyone, let’s give Saihara-kun some space.” Tojo spoke up, “We don’t want him to get too overwhelmed.”

Following Tojo’s orders, everyone in the group took a few steps back, giving Saihara some room to breathe. Akamatsu let go of Saihara and took a step back, standing face to face with him. She gripped his hand, giving it a gentle squeeze.

“Welcome back! I’m- I’m so proud of you! You…” She stopped momentarily to wipe her tears with her sleeve. “You did it! You ended the killing game! You’re amazing, Saihara-kun!”

Before he could even realize it, Saihara himself was crying as well, wet tears streaming down his face.

“I-I’m sorry…” He sniffled, hiding his face in his hands, letting go of Akamatsu’s hand in the proces.  “I’m just so happy to see you all…”

“Don’t be sorry, bro!” Momota slung his arm around Saihara’s shoulders, pulling him in for a hug.

Saihara continued to cry into his chest, accepting the comfort that his best friend offered him.

“Come on, Shuichi! Don’t be so down! Come eat breakfast with the rest of us, just like the good old times!” Momota gave him his signature thumbs up, encouraging just like he did during the killing game.

“Sure… Thank you, Momota-kun.” Saihara wiped the tears off his face and joined the rest of the group back at the table, sitting in between Akamatsu and Momota.

Saihara spent the morning getting to reconnect with his classmates, simply enjoying spending time with them. Finding out everyone was actually alive was probably the best thing to ever happen to him, but that doesn’t mean they had completely recovered just yet. They were still to meet with a private therapist, as well as to attend group therapy twice a week in order to work on their mental state.

Things could’ve been a lot worse, however. Saihara had expected there to be tension amongst those in the room, students holding grudges against one another for the atrocious actions they had committed while in the game. While, according to Akamatsu, things had been pretty rough at first, by now everyone had forgiven each other for what happened in-game. The thought of his classmates getting into arguments over what transpired in-game made Saihara’s heart ache, but there was nothing he could do about it now that it was in the past. All that he could do was be grateful for the peace that had now graced them.

Seeing everyone smile and laugh together at breakfast put all of his worries to the back of his head, relieving him of the previous stress of the killing game. Now that everyone was together again, things would certainly be getting better from here on out. Saihara smiled to himself as he enjoyed his breakfast and the delightful chatter of his fellow classmates.

He didn’t even notice that Ouma was missing.

[pulaasul]

Rairyu - IRL 3

[lit. Thunder Dragon] Ryuji and Futaba promised to meet in Sword Art Online with Ryuji going in first to scout for suitable grinding areas. However, before Futaba could get into the game, Sojiro stopped her and revealed to her the status of Sword Art Online as a Death Game. [Prologue is an entry for #kissryujiday]

C1 I C2 I C3 I C4 

AO3 I FFN

---------------

A few weeks had passed since Futaba's suggestion of hacking into the NerveGear's codes.

Ren was getting frustrated at the fact that they were stuck waiting for her to hack into it. He just can't stand the fact that Ryuji was inside the game without getting any help from anyone.

"Ryuji may be an idiot academically." Morgana started as he popped out of the bag. "I trust that he can take care of himself." He assured his friend. "He has street smarts to back himself up."

"I know Ryuji can take care of himself." Ren nodded. "I'm just frustrated."

"You know we can't rush putting Sophia into SAO." Morgana reminded. "We don't know the risks involved."

"Morgana-san is correct Ren-san." Sophia agreed. "For me to be a good friend to people, I also need to assess the consequences of every action."

"Let's just be glad that Sophia, Zenkichi and Sumire have now been made aware of Ryuji's situation." Morgana offered.

"Are there any progress on your front Futaba?" Ren asked as soon as he stepped inside LeBlanc.

------------------

"It took some days to discover the hardware's codes and more days to connect them to the software's codes." Futaba began. "But I managed to decrypt them and see what they can do." She answered. "It turns out, Kayaba was telling the truth."

"What do you mean?" Anne frowned.

"Kayaba was not hiding any remote kill switch in the NerveGears." Futaba answered. "The worst he could he can do is shutdown the entire SAO server and kill all of his hostages." She added. "Or maybe reroute the hostages' consciousness into another virtual world where they remain unconscious IRL."

"What's stopping him from shutting down the servers entirely?" Makoto's eyes frowned in contemplation. "What's stopping him from killing thousands of hostages in one blow?"

"Can we really trust someone like Kayaba?" Haru voiced her concern. "If we put in Sophia inside the game, there is a chance that he could pull the plug and kill every hostage down."

"Not if he's not monitoring the game himself." Futaba snickered at her discovery.

Ren looked at the other occupants of the café, which mostly consisted of the former Phantom Thieves who were intently listening on Futaba's discover, gauging everyone's reactions.

He could almost smile at everyone's worry over Ryuji. It was true that some of them found his best friend annoying, being the loudmouth and brash person that he is.

Somehow, someway that lovable punk had wormed his way into each of their hearts. Sooner or later, he was found to be endearing, his brashness can be seen as a manifestation of his loyalty, sincerity and caring nature towards his friends and family.

"You see as I was hacking into my NerveGear, I noticed something peculiar." Futaba shared. "I had already pre-loaded the game that morning so that I can get into the action immediately."

Ren's eyes narrowed and the girls gasped as they realized the implications of Futaba's reaction

"I didn't log in, just loaded it." Futaba immediately assured as soon as she saw the reactions her friends donned. "I hacked into SAO's codes and found something interesting."

"Interesting, how?" Ren questioned.

"There's a system in place that manages everything in the virtual world." Futaba informed. "I haven't been able to even get a peek at the things this system can manage, but most probably everything." She continued. "Most probably, Kayaba won't even notice that someone hacked and logged into the game."

"Do we risk Ryuji's and everyone else's lives?" Yusuke asked. "There is still a chance that the worst will happen."

Everyone fell silent at the question.

"If Kayaba is indeed not monitoring the game itself." Sophia voiced out. "Then there's also a probability that the system in place would not notice I am inside." She offered. "Not unless I do something that would notify it of my presence."

"What happens if you get discovered?" Anne asked the girl inside the phone.

"She'd simply be kicked out of the game." Futaba answered. "Sophia is not an internal program that the system in place could just rewrite or delete."

"I suggest you consult Sakamoto-san for your answer." Sae offered as she went inside the café. "Every step you take involves the life of her son, in that sense, she has every right to know of your plans."

"Nijima-san is right." Sojiro voiced out as he went inside the café as well. "But we're not here for that."

"What?" Ren immediately went on alert.

"What happened?" Makoto asked her sister.

"The Kirijo group is moving a number of the SAO players to another hospital." Sae answered. "To free up some room for other patients." She explained.

"Are they doing it for free?" Ren immediately asked.

"The families of the SAO players would work at any Kirijo group affiliated stores and establishments." Sojiro answered. "If you lot are fast enough, you might still be able to catch up."

Everyone immediately dashed outside of the store. They all piled into separate vehicles and sped their way to the hospital were Ryuji was admitted.

------------------

The former Phantom Thieves rushed to the hospital where Ryuji was admitted and there they saw Ryuji's mother talking to a regal woman with red hair.

"I assure you Sakamoto-san, your son will be taken care of." The red haired woman gave her assurance to Ryuji's mother.

"Kirijo-sama this hospital is near to the places I work for and near to my house." Ryuji's mother reasoned. "I don't have enough time to add working for the Kirijo group on top of looking out for my son."

"Mitsuru-senpai let me take over." A woman in pink volunteered.

"Very well Yukari." Mitsuru conceded.

"Sakamoto-san right? I'm Yukari Takeba." The woman in pink introduced herself.

"That's Yukari Takeba!" Futaba hissed. "What is she doing here?!"

"Futaba keep it down." Makoto chided.

"S-sorry." Futaba apologized, head downcast.

"It's fine." Ren comforted the youngest person in the group. "Keep your enthusiasm low for the moment alright?"

"I understand your hesitation with regards to moving your son to a new facility." She smiled. "However don't you think it's beneficial if you just worked for one shift, that way you can take care of your son and yourself at the same time?"

Ren couldn't help but feel that something was wrong here. He knew that the Kirijo group could give Ryuji and anyone the best possible care if necessary. However, the Kirijo group's insistence on placing his best friend under their care was suspicious, and he wasn't going to stand for that.

"What about the jobs I took?" Ryuji's mother asked. "Resigning now with immediate effectivity would look badly on my record."

"Isn't your son's well being more important than your record at your workplace?" Yukari offered.

"Sakamoto-san already declined the offer." Ren voiced out, walking inside the room full of unconscious SAO players. "What is with the insistence to place her son under your care?"

"Ren-kun." Ryuji's mother gasped. "You don't need to do this."

"Ryuji's not here to do this himself." Ren smiled at his best friend's mother. "We'll do it in his stead."

As if on cue, the other former Phantom Thieves went inside the room and stood behind their friend's mother and their leader.

"I was wondering when you lot would reveal yourselves." Mitsuru announced. "Phantom Thieves of Hearts."

"Wha-"The former thieves were caught off guard at the declaration.

Ren was the only one whose identity was announced.

Wary, the Phantom Thieves subtlety moved themselves to surround their leader and Ryuji's mother, bracing themselves for what's to come.

"Since you are his mother Sakamoto-san" Mitsuru sighed. "You have every right to know about this."

"Are you sure Mitsuru-senpai?" Yukari questioned.

"Narukami has made his uncle aware of his abilities." Mitsuru offered. "As did Shirogane."

"That was due to their circumstances, right?" Yukari asked. "Yu-kun was forced to tell his uncle when he was put under suspicion for the serial kidnappings that took over Inaba." She started. "Naoto-kun had to tell her grandfather when she started to work for the Kirijo group."

"Yes, that is true." Mitsuru nodded. "However, I must take away Sakamoto's freedom to inform his mother of his abilities due to the current circumstances."

"What abilities Kirijo-sama?" Ryuji's mother asked. "My son's leg is broken, what other abilities could he possibly have that's not been taken by that perverted teacher?"

The former Phantom Thieves of Hearts looked at each other.

"Your son has the power of Persona." Mitsuru revealed. "As do the children behind you." She gestured.

Ryuji's mother looked at her son's friends in disbelief.

"Persona?"

The Phantom Thieves tried their best not to look affected at the reveal of their powers. If the Kirijo ever noticed the surprise in their actions, she never showed it.

"Impossible!" Morgana bellowed out. "There shouldn't be other Persona-users!"

"Simply put, a Persona is a mask used to face hardship." Mitsuru explained. "The Kirijo group once dabbled in experiments about Personas and Shadows, the opposite of Personas, and the few who exited the company were involved in those as well."

"I still don't see why you are insistent on taking Ryuji away." Ren challenged.

"Those people had experimented on people in the name of that power." Mitsuru answered. "We fear that if they discovered that one of Sword Art Online's players was also a Persona-user, he could be experimented."

"Especially now that he's unconscious." Yukari supplied. "He has no agency to refuse or even defend himself from the experimentation."

"How do we know that you aren't going to experiment on Ryuji yourselves?" Makoto stepped forward.

"Because the Kirijo group has stopped performing those kinds of experiments." Mitsuru answered.

"And also the fact that we can use them." Yukari supplied.

"Are you saying that you have the capacity to protect Ryuji from these would be assailants?" Yusuke challenged.

"Ye-"

"As much as I wish to say yes." Mitsuru cut off Yukari's answer. "I cannot completely guarantee his safety."

"Mitsuru-senpai." Yukari looked at her best friend.

"We will still protect him with the best of our abilities regardless." Mitsuru continued.

"Takeba-san mentioned that you can use your Personas." Futaba stepped forward, just behind Ren. "How do you even know the existence of Personas?"

"Futaba's right." Morgana praised. "Only the people who ventured inside the Metaverse can summon their Personas." He added. "As far as I know, we've only encountered people who awakened to their Personas right in front of us, barring Akechi."

The other thieves looked at Morgana as his head peaked out of the bag slightly to observe the events.

Mitsuru and Yukari looked at their immediate surroundings. No one was inside the room that wasn't related to one Ryuji Sakamoto.

"Fujisaki." Mitsuru called out. "Can you and your men step out of the room and proceed to the floor below for a moment?" She requested.

"As you wish Kirijo-sama." One of the men bowed then ushered everyone from the Kirijo group out of the room.

As soon as the Kirijo group employees left the room, Mitsuru produced a silver handgun.

The thieves' eyes widened at the firearm that was smuggled inside the hospital. Ren immediately pulled Ryuji's mom behind him as the other thieves got into a fighting stance.

Mitsuru suddenly pointed the gun at her head.

"Wha-!"

"Artemisia!" Mitsuru yelled as she pulled the trigger.

A gunshot was heard as an elegant woman with a whip appeared behind the Kirijo. The thieves were in awe at the sheer display of power. While Ryuji's mother gasped at the scene before her.

Ryuji's mother covered her face with her hands in fear and there was no doubt a lot of questions that ran through the elder Sakamoto's brain.

Ren looked at the gun and sure enough there was smoke coming out of the barrel but the Kirijo was still standing and wasn't bleeding from her temple.

"Incredible!" Morgana stared at the Persona in awe. "She's able to summon her Persona in the real world!"

"You must be thinking how am I able to use my Persona while in the real world and not inside a shadow nest." Mitsuru voiced out the unspoken question. "And depending on circumstances, Sakamoto-san may not be able to see my Persona."

The Phantom Thieves looked at their friend's mother expectantly. The Kirijo's words filled them a lot of questions.

"I-I can see the woman that just appeared." Ryuji's mother answered.

"But how?!" Anne exclaimed.

"I must agree." Yusuke nodded. "Personas shouldn't be usable in the real world."

"What Mitsuru-senpai used was an evoker." Yukari answered. "An evoker is needed to summon our Personas in the real world." She continued as she looked at the flabbergasted faces in front of her. "I can't really explain why the Evokers are shaped like guns." She admitted.

"It is possible to summon our Personas in the real world through sufficient training." Mitsuru answered some unspoken questions. "However the training necessary can be arduous and time consuming." She sighed. "It is still easy to summon our Personas using the evoker."

"If they can use their Personas, they must also be used to battle shadows." Morgana voiced out. "If what their saying is true, then maybe they can protect Ryuji."

"Is it just me or am I really hearing a cat meowing?" Yukari voiced out.

"It's not just you Yukari." Mitsuru answered. "I've been hearing those meows as well."

"Crap!" Futaba cussed.

"Please bring forth the other Persona-user in your midst." Mitsuru stated.

Morgana climbed out of Ren's bag and sat on his shoulders.

"Another animal huh?" Yukari sighed. "It just makes me miss Koro-chan more."

"You knew?!" Futaba pointed a finger at both ladies.

"I only knew that the number of Persona users in my scan do not match the number of people I'm facing." Mitsuru shook her head. "I did not know that the missing Persona-user was a feline."

"I'm not a cat!" Morgana hissed.

"From the hissing, I can tell he's uncomfortable."

"He's saying he's not a cat." Futaba translated. "So you can't really hear what he's saying."

"Are you saying that you can understand your cat?" Yukari exclaimed. "H-how?!"

"Let's skip the details for now Yukari." Mitsuru ordered. "Let's come back another day and transport the other patients, they only have two hours before their NerveGears' kill switch activates."

"Wait." Ren called hesitantly. "If you can summon your Persona." He walked towards Mitsuru's position. "Can you let us talk to Ryuji?"

"Ren." The thieves looked at their leader.

"Please?" Ren bowed in front of the Kirijo woman.

Mitsuru smiled at Ren's action.

"Yukari, you can go on ahead and oversee the transfer." Mitsuru ordered. "Tell Akihiko and Iori that I'll be with them shortly."

"Should I tell Fuuka as well senpai?"

"Please do." Mitsuru nodded.

The thieves and Ryuji's mother looked at Mitsuru in confusion as she ordered the lady with her to oversee the operation they have at hand.

"Artemisia, also has secondary communication abilities." Mitsuru revealed. "You can talk to your friend for a while."

[katastroficwriter]

Fic title, "vulnerable"? :)

vulnerable

Summary: Kiibo and Ouma should never be together.

Especially when exploring a decrepit high school with rotting floorboards.

In which Kiibo and Ouma dug themselves a deeper hole than expected when they accidentally crashed to the bottom of a run down school with no other way out.

Tags: Supernatural, Heart-to-heart conversations

                                         ———————————-

“So ghosts, am I right?”

“GAAAH!!! SHUT UP! STOP TALKING ABOUT GHOSTS! I DON’T SEE NO GHOST! GHOSTS AREN’T REAL! YOU PROBABLY JUST MADE GHOSTS UP!” Momota’s sudden outburst easily grabbed everyone’s attention from whatever conversation they were having..

The next thing they saw was the face-splitting grin that slowly took over the supreme leader’s face.

“What’s the matter, Momota Kaito-chan, “Luminary of the Stars”? Scared of a few ghoooooosts~?” he cooed mockingly. “Then again…you know what they say! The more terrified they are…the louder they howl. Wow~!  You’re such a big coward, Momota-chan!”

“SCARED? ME? Of-of-of c-course not! Why the hell would I b-be s-scared of something that doesn’t even e-exist!” the astronaut stammered, taking a couple of steps back. “And I’m no coward!”

“I beg to differ, Momota-kun. There have been countless traces of the souls of the dead roaming in plenty of villages I’ve visited in the past, ku ku ku…” Shinguuji added, waving his index finger a little. “It was truly a wondrous experience. I still remember it as if it were only yesterday.”

“See? Even Shinguuji-chan says they’re real,” Ouma snickered. “And that’s why I want to see them for myself!”

“I-It has to be a lie! You probably roped Shinguuji into this! As long as you’re involved, it has to be a lie!” Despite the strength in Momota’s accusation, everyone can tell how badly his legs were shaking like a newborn fawn’s.

“You’re just afraid of the truth, that’s why you always dismiss it as lies,” Ouma tapped at his lips with a deceitfully serene smile.

“Everybody settle down!” Akamatsu huffed, placing her hands on her hips. “Anyway…what’s with this sudden interest in ghosts, Ouma-kun?”

“Finally! Someone asking the right questions. I knew I can count on you, Akamatsu-chan~” Ouma waved his arms up and down with uncontained excitement. “You see…I wanted to propose a class bonding activity in the form of a test of courage!”

“A test of courage? Hah! I’ll ace that like how I aced my astronaut exam!” Momota slammed a fist against his chest, color returned to his face.

“After your shameful display? I highly doubt that,” the supreme leader made a show of flicking dirt off his nails.

“Ouma you bastard–”

“But a test of courage in Spring? Isn’t that a little…off-season?” Shirogane spoke, raising her hand. “Wouldn’t Summer or Autumn be a more suitable time for those kinds of things?”

“Oui, Oui! Shirogane-chan!” Ouma crossed his arms over his chest. “But you see, the abandoned Saishuu Academy would be demolished next month! We absolutely cannot afford to wait for Summer or Autumn!”

“Saishuu…Academy?” Saihara lifted the bill of his hat as he spoke. “Why there?”

“Huh? Is there something going on with Saishuu Academy, Saihara-kun?” Akamatsu tilted her head to the side.

The detective tugged his hat lower, “Um…none that I know of. It’s just…my great-great-grandfather used to go there during his time.”

“Exactly!” Ouma pointed at the detective. “Saishuu Academy is one of the, if not the oldest school in the entirety of Japan! It’s bound to house a lot of ghosts in it!”

“What makes you so damn sure about that, you gremlin? It’s not like people fucking died there!” Iruma scoffed.

“Shut your stinky mouth and listen, pig, you might actually learn something if you do,” Ouma slammed a hand on his desk.

“H-hiiee!” 

“The school has a clean record, sure. But I’ll have you know that Saishuu Academy was in fact built over an execution ground for criminals! A prison! There’s plenty of deaths on that land, that’s for sure!”

“Nnngh…you’re probably just lying again!” Yumeno pointed an accusatory finger at the leader, though her bravado was belied by her pale face. “Y-you’re just saying that to d-disrupt my mana flow!”

“Oh, but what Ouma-kun said is in fact true,” Shinguuji chuckled. “I even have records of it in my lab. I would present it to you all, however, it’s a very old record and thus very fragile to the elements. I do not wish to damage it.”

“S-stupid! This idea is stupid anyway! Why do I have to go through a test of courage when we already know how courageous I am!” Momota slammed his fists together. “G-ghosts or a-ayakashi, or y-y-youkai, they aren’t r-real and are just stories invented to t-torment the feeble-minded!”

“No need to be shy, Momota-chan, we all know you mean you,” Ouma smiled. “Anyway! If anyone wants to join in the fun, just go meet me and Kiiboy by Saishuu Academy’s school gate. I’ll only wait for 10 minutes. I’m entering the school whether or not you all come, just saying.”

“Wasn’t this supposed to be a class bonding activity?!” Chabashira raised a fist.

“That was a lie, really. I’m just making this announcement in case I die while exploring the place, nishishi! That way you’ll know where to look for my remains.” The leader hopped off his seat and approached the albino robot, who was currently sitting idly by the wall in sleep mode while he charged.  “Speaking of which, I really love nature so make sure you spread my ashes in the forest, okay?”

“B-bullshit! Stop fooling around!” Momota gritted his teeth.

“That aside…did Kiibo-kun already agree to this? I didn’t think he’d be the type to go on trips like this one,” Amami rubbed his nape.

“Oh, he doesn’t have a choice, really,” Ouma proceeded to poke and prod random buttons on the robot’s body. “I just needed something to take paranormal photos of! Kiiboy’s a machine, so he can definitely detect ghosts and print out a photo for us or two!”

“H-hey, you should stop messing with Kiibo, what if he blows up or something?” Momota shuddered had the thought. He still needed to go to space! There’s no way he’s going to die from an explosion!

“…Mmm? Huh? Up already? But I’m only at 79 percent…” Kiibo mimicked a yawn. “How did–”

“Morning sleepyhead~ Wanna go on a test and courage with us later?” the supreme leader flashed the android a toothy grin.

“O-Ouma-kun? Test of courage?” Kiibo’s brow furrowed as he began perusing the recording of the conversation which he slept through. “What for?”

“Just for some good ol’ class bonding,” Ouma tucked a strand of hair behind an ear. “You have no choice by the way, I only asked you for the sake of formality.”

The albino frowned at the remark after reviewing the entire conversation he missed. “You might as well have forgone the pretense of being polite, Ouma-kun. Go use your smartphone instead. After all, it’s still a machine which can also take photos.”

“Whaaat? No way! It has to be you, Kiiboy!” Ouma shook the robot by his shoulders, fake tears streaming down his cheeks. “Your flashlight function is way better than a phone’s! And you don’t need to hit a shutter just to take a photo! You’re more useful and convenient than any old smartphone for this!”

Kiibo paused at the unexpected praise. “…You’re just saying that to butter me up.”

“I’m nooot! I don’t just mean your camera function, I also mean your recording device! You can pick up subtle sounds right? Maybe you can pick up the messages of the dead too! That would be so cool! Come on Kiiboy, pleeeeeeease?” Ouma gave the android his best puppy dog eyes. “And didn’t the professor fix your shitty battery usage problem? That makes you even more useful!”

“Well…true…” Kiibo rubbed the back of his head, still a little weirded out from the leader’s behavior. “…Fine, I guess. But only to keep you out of trouble.”

“Yippeeeeee!!!” Ouma released the robot’s shoulders and started jumping around. “You’re the best, Kiiboy!”

“Kiibo-kun is so easy to sway as always,” Yonaga chimed.

“He still has a ways to go,” Hoshi tugged his hat lower. “He’s too soft, which is exactly why Ouma never stops bothering him.”

“That said, who’s going?” Amami asked, turning to look at the others. “I hardly know anything about the school since I’m almost always overseas, so I’m kinda curious about it. I’m going.”

“I will. I can’t help but worry,” Akamatsu raised her hand. “If something goes wrong, having more people around would make it easier to find help.”

“I will too! It would just be like Ghost Hunt! I’m so pumped!” Shirogane bounced in her seat excitedly. “I actually learned some basic warding spells from some monks for my cosplay research. If something does turn up, we won’t be completely helpless!”

“I’ll pass, this is a waste of time,” Harukawa played with one of her pigtails. “Not to mention dangerous. This is just asking for trouble.”

“I’ll pass too, unfortunately! I have to offer a special prayer for Atua tonight. I can’t afford to miss it,” Yonaga squished her cheeks together.

“I’ll go. I would love to do some recording of my own. Maybe I would be able to discover something new to add to the one I already have,” Shinguuji chuckled.

“Hyahaha! I’m cumming alright! I’m gonna take my ghostbusting gear with me!” Iruma grinned. “Ghosts or not, as long as I can test out my babies then it all checks out!”

“Gonta and Toujou-san are still away on a trip. It’s a shame that they can’t go,” the artist sighed. “Everyone seems so lively about the idea!”

“I don’t want to risk my entry in the next Tennis Tournament if I get in trouble for this,” Hoshi murmured. “Take care though. Don’t want any of you getting hurt.”

“That’s sweet of you, Hoshi-kun,” Akamatsu smiled.

“Well I’m not going! Tests of courage are nothing but a sneaky ploy for degenerate men to get handsy with girls!” Chabashira huffed.

“Mmmm…I’m going, I want to test out my exorcism magic I’ve been honing…” Yumeno rubbed her chin with a thoughtful look.

“If Yumeno-san is going then I will too~!!!” Chabashira pumped her fists in the air.

Saihara chewed on his lower lip before nodding to himself. “I’m going too. I’ve never seen its interior before, but I’ve heard rumors that it had plenty of secret rooms.”

“Wh–you too, Shuuichi?!” Momota gaped.

“It’s totally okay if you don’t come, Momota-chan! Just because your bestie is going doesn’t mean you have to. You don’t have to push yourself so hard,” Ouma cooed.

“Why I outta–”

BING! BONG! DING! DONG!

Ouma said nothing but smirked at the astronaut as he was literally saved by the bell, much to the other Ultimate’s chagrin. Their homeroom teacher entered a few minutes later, successfully ending their discussion about their plans later.

—————————————————-

“I’ll have you know that I’m leaving as soon as an hour is up,” Kiibo spoke as he carefully avoided stepping on rotten floorboards.

“What? Why?” Ouma stared at his partner in disbelief. “Don’t be such a spoilsport Kiiboy! Live a little!”

“Yes, I want to live, that’s why I do not want to stay here any longer than what’s necessary,” huffed the android. “I don’t want to worry the Professor for staying out too late. Not to mention this entire building is a hazard to everyone.”

“Tsk, fine, whatever. But you better get some good shots of ghosts you hear? I don’t want to leave this school empty handed,” Ouma pouted.

“That’s hardly something I can control, Ouma-kun,” Kiibo sighed.

Before entering the school premises, everyone drew lots for their pairs: Kiibo and Ouma; Shirogane and Shinguuji; Saihara and Yumeno; Chabashira and Iruma; and lastly, Akamatsu and Amami. It turned out that Momota’s evident fear of the supernatural made pairing up easy for everyone. They were all going to enter the school in that order, but they were free to explore any of the academy’s floors.

“Still, this really is a big school,” the android said with awe.

“Mmhm! It has tons of stuff in it. A church, a dormitory, clubrooms–” Ouma looked around the area, taking note of tattered and worn school festival fliers still posted on the cracked walls. “The land the property was on is really big, they were going to tear the school down and build a new mall.”

Kiibo looked at the fliers with dismay, “That’s…a bit of a shame. To have a place so full of memories get torn down for something like this.”

“Yeah. But time waits for no one. Money makes the modern world go round. Something abstract like memories don’t have economic value,” Ouma frowned, but eventually relaxed. “Anyway, detected any ghosts yet?”

Kiibo reviewed his memories and shook his head. “Sorry, still nothing.”

“Gahhh that’s so lame. How about we take the other way around?” Ouma huffed.

“N-NGAAAAAH! WHAT IS THAT? A ZOMBIE?!”

“Yumeno-san calm down! That’s just an old human-body model!”

“SAIHARA WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO YUMENO-SAN?!”

“Quite the loud bunch aren’t they?” the raven-haired Ultimate shook his head. “Maybe that’s why ghosts aren’t showing up. Maybe inviting them wasn’t such a good idea.”

“I think it’s better this way,” Kiibo chuckled. “The more the merrier, as they all say.”

“Nishishi! Maybe so,” Ouma huffed in amusement. “Mm? Hey, have we checked this room before?”

“Hmm…I don’t think so,” Kiibo looked up at the rusty signage above the dislodged door. “The library, huh.”

“Oooh! They probably have valuable books left behind, that’s a nice find. Let’s go in!” Ouma grabbed the android by his wrist, skipping through the doorway.

“Wait, not so fast Ouma-kun! The floor might give out–”

*CRACK*

“Huh?”

“Ouma-kun, hold onto me–!”

The floorboards had collapsed under their combined weight the moment they took their first step inside the old library. Down, down, down, they crashed. How many floors have they gone down exactly? None of them could keep count with both of their eyes shut tight. The only thing Ouma could register was the feeling of falling and strong metal arms wrapped around him protectively.

————————————————————-

CRAAAAAAAASH!

Akamatsu’s head perked up at the loud noise. “Oh no…”

As though reading her mind, Amami pulled out his cellphone and sent everyone a text.

‘Yell out your names if you’re safe. If you’re inside a room, get out so we can hear you.’

The pianist and the survivor nodded at each other before initiating the roll call.

“AKAMATSU KAEDE!”

“AMAMI RANTAROU!”

There was a beat of silence until the next person followed.

“YU-YUMENO HIMIKO!”

“SAIHARA SHUUICHI!”

“IRUMA MIU!”

“CHABASHIRA TENKO!!!”

“SHINGUUJI KOREKIYO!”

“SHIROGANE TSUMUGI!”

Silence followed.

“That can’t be right…where’s Ouma-kun and Kiibo-kun?” Akamatsu’s forehead creased with worry.

“That could only mean that they were the ones who crashed. We better look for them fast, they’re probably hurt,” Amami hastily tapped another message, telling everyone to meet up at the entrance hall. “Let’s go.”

“Okay.”

Akamatsu and Amami carefully proceeded towards the meeting place, mindful of their footsteps now more than ever. Shirogane and Shinguuji arrived at the designated place before everyone else, followed by them, and the others arrived shortly after.

“Ouma’s probably messing with us again,” Iruma scoffed, tapping her finger against her arm.

“I agree! What if he didn’t do his roll call on purpose to spook everyone after destroying part of the school!” Chabashira nodded.

“I don’t think Ouma-kun would do anything to risk his own safety,” Saihara murmured. “Not to mention, Kiibo-kun was with him.”

“Correct! Even if Ouma-kun decided not to do roll call, Kiibo-kun still would have done it himself,” Akamatsu’s brows furrowed in concentration. “Was anyone near the crash?”

“I was on the first floor with Shinguuji-kun,” Shirogane raised a hand. “We heard something crash nearby but we didn’t see anyone at all. If Kiibo-kun and Ouma-kun did fall…shouldn’t we be able to find them on this floor?”

“That’s a good point.” Amami rubbed his chin. “How close were you to the crash, exactly?”

“Not very close, but I can pinpoint us to its general direction,” Shinguuji raised a hand.

“Alright. Everybody stay close. We can’t have anyone else getting hurt,” Akamatsu took a deep breath and slapped her cheeks. “No use panicking! Focus, focus!”

“Shouldn’t we call the fire department for help?” Saihara asked.

“But what if they were taken by ghosts? No one would believe our story!” Yumeno interjected.

“Shh! Everyone focus!” Shirogane turned to look at the others. “Now’s not the time to entertain thoughts like that. We need to try looking for them first before calling the fire department.”

“I’m on board for that. We practically broke some rules just entering this shithole,” Iruma flipped her hair.

“We’re here. I’m not sure of the specific source of the sound, but it should be around here,” the anthropologist proceeded to tie his hair in a neat ponytail.

“Okay, let’s split the rooms among ourselves. Got it?” Akamatsu regarded her friends with a look of determination.

“Got it!”

Their search didn’t end up being completely fruitless when Saihara managed to locate a hole in the infirmary’s flooring. But that very same discovery led them to their next problem. If there was a hole on the flooring of the first floor…then where does it lead to exactly? They were met with darkness even after flashing their lights on the hole. Ouma and Kiibo should have landed on the first floor if not any of the floors just above them.

“This is a big problem.” Amami concluded.

————————————————————

“Ouma-kun. Ouma-kun, wake up.”

Ouma hissed in pain as he shifted to his side. “O-oww…what–what happened?”

“The floorboards collapsed from under us and we fell a couple of floors down,” Kiibo replied, helping the supreme leader sit up. “Take it easy, you have a slight head injury and a twisted ankle.”

Ouma instantly raised a hand to touch his head, only to feel his scarf wrapped around his head. “What floor are we on, exactly?”

Kiibo pursed his lips. “…We would be in the equivalent of the basement floor. I reviewed my memories and we already went past the first floor by a couple of levels.”

“The basement level? The map didn’t have anything like that at all,” Ouma withered in pain, resting his weight on the robot.

“That’s what I thought too. This was probably one of the secret rooms Saihara-kun meant,” the albino paused to point at the spot across them. “…Though judging by the look of those rusted iron bars…we’re actually inside an underground dungeon.”

“If it weren’t for the fact that I’m in pain and we’re currently stuck, I would have thought that this was cool,” Ouma groaned. “Tch. There’s no use texting the others, there’s no way there could be reception in a place like this.”

“…I’m sorry, Ouma-kun.” Kiibo looked down.

The supreme leader raised a brow. “For what?”

“If only I had the ability to fly, I could have gotten us out of this mess right away,” the android explained. “I don’t have the strength to carry you out of this room either.”

“You could have just explored the area, searched for the exit and then come back for me afterwards,” Ouma huffed.

Kiibo shook his head. “That’s a risky idea. I don’t want to leave you alone during a crisis like this. What if more of the school gives out? If I left, there’s a big chance that we’d be separated by debris and only one of us could get out.”

“That’s…true. Heh. I guess my head isn’t working as well as I hoped right now,” Ouma chuckled half-heartedly. “I’m…sorry too. I got us into this mess in the first place. I wasn’t being careful earlier, so we fell. We’re more or less even.”

Kiibo was taken aback by the sincere apology, but did not dare to comment on it. They couldn’t exactly afford to bicker during an emergency like this one. It was clear that Ouma was too hurt to put up his usual mischievous demeanor, too.

“I’m glad you were my partner.”

“Huh?” the albino stared at his companion in confusion.

“Don’t look at me like that,” Ouma huffed as he slowly sank into a lying down position, resting his head on the robot’s cool lap. “If I had fallen with anybody else in our group, one of us would have already died; or worse, both of us would have just died and rotted together with this school. Look at you. It was a nasty fall, but all you have are scratches. You really are something, huh.” He grinned up at the albino.

Kiibo chewed on his bottom lip, a little embarrassed from the praise. “I don’t mean this in an offensive way, but–”

“Go ahead and say it.”

“Okay.” The albino took a deep breath. “Ouma-kun, did you rig the pairing lots so that I would be paired up with you? You did point out all of the convenient tools and functions I had for your exploration idea…”

Ouma simply chuckled in response. “You probably won’t believe me, but that was all luck. I never really cared about who you get paired up with, I just wanted the ghost pics.”

“I see…I thought just as much,” Kiibo nodded along. “I wonder if…the others are looking for us right now.”

“They are. You’re with me after all. If it were just me alone, they probably would have just left me behind,” Ouma sighed nonchalantly. “Then again if I were alone, I’d already be dead. Nishishi!”

Kiibo frowned. “Even if you were alone, we would still look for you, regardless of whether you’re dead or alive.”

“And what makes you say that, Kiiboy?”

“We’re friends, Ouma-kun. If such an obvious answer wasn’t clear to you, then you probably need to rest as much as you can right now,” the robot’s frown eased after finishing his sentence.

“Heh…I guess I can do that,” the raven-haired Ultimate shifted in his position a little, careful not to aggravate his aching leg as he did so. “I don’t wanna sleep in a shithole like this though, so you and I are going to be talking for quite a while until we get rescued.”

“That sounds like a good idea,” Kiibo smiled.

Being stuck in a very deep hole was probably the worst time to start getting to know a person more. But since that person is Ouma, a crazy situation like this is probably the only thing that could get him to talk sincerely. From his love for shounen manga to his hobbies, these were all things Kiibo had hoped to learn from the supreme leader at school and not in some hidden dungeon.

“Kiiboy, can I level with you for a moment?”

“Isn’t that what we’ve been doing for a while now?” Kiibo lifted a brow.

“Just shut up and listen to me,” huffed the other teen.

“Alright, sorry.”

Ouma released a sigh before speaking. “…I honestly think I’m going to die here. But even if I die, surely you won’t. That’s why I want you to record something for me.”

“…You mean a will?” Kiibo’s forehead creased with worry.

“Haha! Not quite,” Ouma shook his head. “Just some things I wished I was able to tell everyone before we both got into this mess. A confession of some sort.”

“Ouma-kun…”

“I want you to show it to everyone in the worst case scenario,” Ouma continued. “But if I ever survive this, whatever I’m going to say is going to be just between you and me. Understand?”

“Y…yes, I understand,” Kiibo nodded, though his worry was still very much present on his face.

“I’ll start now, ready?”

“I’m ready.”

“Then I guess I should start about my parents…”

——————————————————————-

It had already been more or less two hours since Kiibo and Ouma crashed. The firemen struggled with trying to figure out how to pull them out from such a deep and dark pit. The realization that their two classmates had fallen lower than what they had expected brought chills down their spine. It took the firemen another hour to finally be able to rescue the missing Ultimates, much to everyone’s relief.

The EMTs carefully strapped Ouma to a stretcher and ushered him into the ambulance so they could take a better look at his wounds. Everyone then got off with a heavy scolding both from the rescuers and their respective parents for doing something dangerous without even contacting an adult. Though for Kiibo’s case, he was praised right after for his quick thinking during the emergency, otherwise the supreme leader would have been in a critical state.

“I hope you all learned a valuable lesson from this experience,” a fireman huffed.

“Yes, sir…” the teens all responded in unison.

“Let’s go home and get you fixed,” Iidabashi gave his son’s hair a ruffle. “Also cleaned up, you’re terribly dirty.”

Kiibo’s gaze lingered at the ambulance before turning to look at his father. “…Okay.”

The premises of Saishuu Academy was completely locked down the next day in light of the incident during the previous night. Both Kiibo and Ouma were sought after by the Newspaper Club, determined to secure an exclusive interview from them regarding their experience of being trapped. Unfortunately for Ouma, his twisted ankle prohibited him from escaping their pesky advances. And just as unfortunately for Kiibo, he still had the stamina of a senior citizen, but his father did improve his strength in order to assist him in emergencies.

“Ouma-kun, may I speak with you for a moment?”

It took Kiibo about two weeks before he could muster the courage to talk to the raven-haired Ultimate. They had to keep a facade that things were back to normal after all.

“Depends on what you wanna talk about,” Ouma leaned against his chair. “If it’s about that then no. I don’t want to hear anything about that stupid school anymore.”

Kiibo shook his head. “It’s…kind of related, but it’s not about the incident.” He pulled out photos from one of his pockets. “I thought that maybe…you needed to see this.”

Ouma lifted a brow, curious, as he accepted the photos.

The android shifted in his place. He specifically chose to speak to Ouma today since everyone was out eating at the cafeteria and the supreme leader had slipped away from the group not completely unnoticed. It was the only chance where they’ll have some form of privacy during school hours.

“UWAAAH! WHAT THE HECK! THAT’S SO CREEPY!!!” Ouma shuffled out of his seat in a panic, haphazardly throwing the photos on the table.

“…You did say you wanted photos,” Kiibo murmured as he picked the photos up. It was a photo of his memory during the incident; specifically the time right after they landed in the hidden dungeon. For a brief moment, he had caught a glimpse of a woman cradling Ouma–she disappeared as soon as he blinked though. That was why he wasn’t able to record her face in high definition.

“Y-yeah! But not when it involved me!” Ouma pointed an accusatory finger at the photos in the albino’s hand. “Have an exorcist burn it!”

“But Ouma-kun…” Kiibo shuffled through the different photos and picked one out to show the other Ultimate. “I think…it’s your mother.”

Ouma’s eyes visibly widened at the photo. It wasn’t taken inside the dungeon, no, the setting was entirely different. In fact, it was right when Ouma got brought inside the ambulance. A translucent woman stood waiting outside of the ambulance. Thanks to the lighting, her face was properly recorded. Even more so when she was looking right at Kiibo, giving him a wave. 

Jet black hair, soft, lilac eyes…

Her features alone were a dead giveaway that she couldn’t be anyone else but Ouma’s mother. 

Ouma shakingly took the photo from the android, this time staring at it with awe instead of fear. “…It’s really her…”

“Yes. That’s why I thought that you needed to see this,” Kiibo scratched at his cheek nervously. “…Do you really want to have these burned?”

Ouma let slip a sincere smile, “…Maybe not.”

Kiibo perked up, pleased to be able to make him smile.

Bonus:

“I’m only keeping this one. Buuut—!” Ouma snatched the photo of the hidden dungeon and showed it to the android. “You definitely have to show this to Momota-chan!”

Kiibo shook his head, “I don’t see why you need to–”

“Show me what?” both Ultimates turned their heads to face the astronaut.

The android paled at the very sight of the grin that took over the supreme leader’s face.

“Kiibo showed me this really cute photo he took on the way to school! And I thought you’d like it too!” Ouma chimed, slightly limping his way towards the taller Ultimate to hand him the photo.

“Momota-kun, wait–!”

Alas, Kiibo’s words fell on deaf ears.

“GAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!!!!!!”

“Nishishi! So ghosts, am I right~?”

“SHUT THE FUCK UP, OUMA!!!”

———————

If you’re wondering why I never explained what those memories were…that’s because Ouma survived. Kiibo’s not obligated to show you what it was.

[a-student-out-of-time]

Soo what's going to happen to what's left of Team Danganronpa?

Someone's gotta clean up the rest of that mess.

You all take care, okay? Especially you, Esumi.

I will. Until next time, Shinabe-san.

We beat Shirogane. That's the important part...and it means everyone we lost can finally rest in peace...including my moms.

See you 'round, kids.

*With that, Mako walks off*

...We don't even remember our parents. How's this going to work?

Well, Yumeno and Saihara have people who can help re-educate them on the matter. Yumeno's mom is still out there, we know that. But for you, Maki-chan...I think that's something your parents are gonna have to handle.

I doubt your parents are ever going to speak to me again.

...This wasn't your fault.

I know...

*Kaede stares out at the ruins of the dome visible in the distance*

Akamatsu? It's time to go.

...It doesn't feel over. I don't think it ever will. Not for me.

Same here. I've been at this for decades, kid.

But I guess we can start somewhere.

...Why didn't he just stop this?

...

*Without an answer, Masa pulls her back to the car*

*Kaede wipes her tears, looks back one last time, and joins everyone in the ride back*

(PLAYBACK ENDS)

[thestarshiphope]

Tsumugi you can get Tenko!

*2070*

*Tenko sits in the corner of a quiet temple, curled up with her forehead on her knees*

*An older man- a Buddhist monk dressed in a heavy brown coat- enters*

Master Sasaki: Tenko-chan.

Master…what are you doing here?!

Master Sasaki: I know what you said…but I’m not going to abandon you.

You…you need to get to a bunker or something! Go! Run! Hide!

Master Sasaki: I’m sorry, but I can’t do that. Not unless you’re coming with me.

Why…Tenko…Tenko’s useless now. She doesn’t have her Neo-Aikido anymore.

Master Sasaki: That’s not even remotely true.

But it is! Tenko lost all her memories of-

Master Sasaki: I mean you’re not useless. Never say that about yourself.

*Sasaki takes a seat beside her on the floor*

…

Master Sasaki: Do you remember when we first met? The first time you came to my temple?

Yeah, hehe…Tenko was such a rambunctious girl.

Master Sasaki: I’d never seen a more unruly child before. When you were mad enough, you used to do nothing but scream.

Tenko…also threw a lot of stuff back home when she was mad. Breakable stuff.

Master Sasaki: Your parents trusted me to help you channel your emotions into something better. I’ll admit, I wracked my brain at first trying to figure out what to do. But then, I had my answer.

Neo-Aikido!

Master Sasaki: Precisely.

Why are you telling Tenko this though?

Master Sasaki: I’ve just been thinking about how much you’ve grown since then.

Well, yeah. Tenko’s taller now.

Master Sasaki: *He chuckles* True, but not what I had in mind. Do you remember what you told me on your fourteenth birthday?

Uhh…y-yeah. You don’t have to-

Master Sasaki: “Master, for my birthday, I wanna kiss a pretty girl.”

P-p-please! It’s too emb-barrassing!

Master Sasaki: That was a big step for you though. You accepted that you’re gay, and you were honest about it. 

Of course. Tenko wants to stay true to herself.

Master Sasaki: Our society has gone back and forth on what should and shouldn’t be accepted. It’s been so confusing for a lot of people who have no idea what they should think or feel. But you? You always stuck true to yourself, how you’re feeling, and what you want.

Yeah! That’s what you taught me!

Master Sasaki: No. I just gave you what you needed. You made that choice yourself.

Tenko never would’ve had that chance without you! Helping all those girls in need! Stopping thieves and criminals! 

Master Sasaki: And then going so far as to rescue people from Red Rain. You’re a hero, Tenko-chan.

Tenko was just…doing what she can.

And I can’t thank you enough for it.

WHA!!

Shirogane-chan? What’re you doing here?

Master Sasaki: They came here, saying they know you.

We do. Tenko is a friend. She saved my life!

Are you alright?

Tenko’s been...better.

But she’s happy to see you again.

Master Sasaki: What’s your name, miss?

I’m Shirogane Tsumugi.

Master Sasaki: It’s nice to meet you, Shirogane-san.

What’re you doing here?

Well...a few reasons.

One is, well, we’re bringing everyone back together. Akamatsu-san and Shuichi are out finding the others. I already talked to Iruma-san about all this, and she joined us.

And you came to find Tenko?

Yeah. That...brings me to my second point.

I...w-wanted to see you again.

O-oh...

Master Sasaki: Aww, how sweet.

M-master, please! 

Master Sasaki: You’re here to take Tenko-chan with you?

Y-yes, hopefully.

Master Sasaki: Where are you going?

If we can, Project Gofer.

We’re gonna try and bring everyone back there. And then-

Master Sasaki: You’re gonna leave?

I- y-yes. Maybe? Hopefully. 

Master Sasaki: Then you’re gonna need Tenko-chan.

What?! But...But Master, Ten- I won’t leave you!

Master Sasaki: Tenko-chan. You’re not leaving me. I’m asking you to go.

But...but, but, but, but-! 

Master Sasaki: Tenko-chan...you remember what you said to me the first day I met you?

...I said, “Go away. I hate you.”

Master Sasaki: You did, didn’t you?

B-but it’s different now! Tenko...Tenko loves you, Master! 

You’re one of the best people Tenko knows.

Master Sasaki: I love you too, sweetheart. I’m proud of you. I always have been. You’e become such an amazing young woman. That’s why I’m asking you, right here, to go. Get on that ship, and make sure you survive.

Master...

Master Sasaki: I became a monk because I wanted to help people. I spent 68 years of my life doing just that. But all of that compares to what you’ve done. What I know you’ll do out there.

...

...

...alright. Tenko...Tenko’ll go.

Master Sasaki: Thank you.

We’ll make sure she gets there okay. 

Master Sasaki: Thank you, Shirogane-san. You and your friends take care of yourselves out there.

So...this is goodbye?

Master Sasaki: Tenko-chan, don’t say that. We‘ll see each-other again, some day.

Tenko doesn’t wanna wait that long.

Master Sasaki: Aww, look. You’re crying so hard, you’ve stained your shirt.

T-Tenko doesn’t care about-

*She looks down. Sasaki lightly brings his finger up to boop her nose*

...

Master Sasaki: That never fails.

Hehehehe~

...thank you, Master. Thank you for being part of Tenko’s life.

Master Sasaki: And thank you for being part of mine.

*The two share a tight hug*

Master Sasaki: Now, you should get going. Sooner you get off the planet, the better.

Yeah...

Tenko’s never gonna forget anything you taught her! She’ll make sure your lessons live on! Forever!

*She bows one last time* Thank you, Master. Tenko...will see you later.

Master Sasaki: *He smiles and bows as well*

_______________________________________________

...

Chabashira-san...

*Sniff* It’s alright. Tenko...just needs to get this all out.

...

Before we go...would it be alright if I ask you something?

What?

Did you ever get that kiss for your 14th birthday?

Y-you heard that?!

N-no...um, T-Tenko’s never kissed anyone before...

Never?

Nope. Never.

Do you want to?

Huh?!

I know I don’t really qualify as a “pretty girl,” but...w-well...

It’s...a reward for saving my life.

...I-If you want it.

...

...o-okay.

R-really?

Y-yeah...

*Tsumugi leans close and plants a gentle kiss on Tenko’s lips*

Hehehehe! Tenko...finally kissed a girl!

I’m glad you liked it.

Now, come on, let’s get going.

Absolutely.

*Tenko and Tsumugi walk hand in hand back to their transport*

[imagine-a-killingharmony]

Little Sister (V3 GIRLS!)

V3 casts spend a day with their s/o’s little 9 year old sis? also their sister isn’t that gullible but she is oblivious to innuendos.

Yet again... Anno! Only eight of the cast, don’t worry... honestly nowadays if you ask this it just counts if your lucky or not... if I want to do the girls or boys... so please do specify next time, for now let’s do some more girls!!

Tenko Chabashira

Oh my gosh!! This little girl is just like an mini... an mini you! Look at how small she is, Tenko could pinch her cheeks for days...!

It’ll be hard but you’ll need to convince her to somehow put your little sister down, as Tenko is happily accepting any requests for piggy-back rides, she’s even asking the little girl if she wants to practice spar- this little bundle of joy needs to know how to defend herself!

Tenko’s likely to be more gullible than her here, seriously, if your cute- and a girl she will literally be at your beck and call, which is why she’s just being your little sister’s servant for the day...

Then... you have to admit you feel a little jealous of the way Tenko’s giving her so much affection, especially with all the compliments and adoration...

You need some love too... how mean...

Himiko Yumeno

There... can only be one small cutie-pie in this relationship, Himiko may or may not be squinting at your little sister for the entire day...

Well till she asks about “magic” being the keyword here, your sister asked if she was an witch! Those are usually super duper bad...

Himiko had to go on a rant about how witches and mages are totally different, she went into a large amount of detail with energy you didn’t even know the mage had...

Your sister apologized, promising that she’ll never make the mistake ever again, earning a small smile from Himiko...

They get along better, a bit better after that... entire... discussion, Himiko even gives your little sister a quarter she got from the back of her ear, taken from the dimensional teleportation spell...!

Or your pockets, shit.

Angie Yonaga

Angie’s an utter delight to your little sister, she goes on to explain how such a small mind has so much... potential in her, so they go on to draw together... Angie brought crayons!

It’s a fun day for the two of them, your left watching as Angie “oohs” and “awws” at any of your little sister’s creations, they even make total super original characters together!

Angie gets along with her swimmingly, but not before placing a kiss on your cheek asking if she can talk with the little delight more often, it always is a wonderful-wonderful time to get along with someone related to the best person in the entire galaxy!

“... Angie means you!” Somehow it always draws back onto her loving you, which you won’t... deny, you go to hug her back, she still loves you the most silly! ❤️

Kaede Akamatsu

Kaede has a twin-sister... that doesn’t really count as to having a smaller one would be, so this would be a totally new experience for her, y’know?

She always wondered what it be like... so she organized a bunch of actvities for a little sister and big sister to do, plus you!

Of course, she had to make a good impression on your family... so, most of the day was spent traveling to... places, nail salons, toy stores... wow, Kaede really went all out!

Then... of course as we all know the final activity, of course is playing piano for the little girl, it’s always a pleasure to see the adoring smile on Kaori’s (her sister’s) face... so to see your little sister cheering for her as she plays one of her all-time favorites: “Claire de lune”!

It was a terrific performance to end off a perfect day.

Tsumugi Shirogane

Well she can’t technically drag her to the cosplay swamp, as she’s your sister you’d probably wouldn’t have fun dealing with a little girl in her otaku phase... but still, she’s going to recommend some anime with light fanbases and perfectly nice messages!

Tsumugi spends most of the day just discussing... plain ol’ things with her, offers to do her hair to make it cuter once or twice- actually...

Cosplay... Cosplay! Your little sister is obviously the perfect height to fit in a “Happy” cosplay- maybe “sans” too? Ooooh gosh!

Tsumugi obviously gets her makeup kit out, asking if the little girl wants to be in the shoes of another person for a while... you’ve left the room, you can’t stop what happens...

You don’t know whether or not to feel disappointed when you find your little sister dressed as sans undertale.

Miu Iruma

“Hey! So this is yer’ little sister, kehehehe she’s a rather cute fuuuuuuuuuu- friggin’... munchkin.”

... She’s trying her best, she really is trying her best to not make any inappropriate jokes or say any bad words... and she’s only narrowly doing it...

“Oh! Twinkies? Oh man, you ever notice that if you squeeze em’ tight enough it looks l- a volcano, that, what the fuuu- FRICK! Frick did you think I meant? Aha...”

“Woah! (S/O) after this you owe me a whole d... dang lot for having my golden brain cells improvise so dang much...!”

Miu is obviously in pain the entire time, but she holds it in...

Your thankful that she managed to hold yourself back for your sake if anything... honestly...

Maki Harukawa

As the Ultimate Child Caregiver, she drew children near her... surprisingly she had a rather loving motherly side when it was for children, her face looked... softer the entire day...

Maki was surprisingly good with talking with her, they spoke of small things that you didn’t even know your sister was interested in...!

... They haven’t even known each other for long yet... t-they already have such a strong bond, is this the work of an enemy stand?!

No, it’s just there power of the Ultimate Child Caregiver...

You swear your sister starts asking you if “Big Sister Maki” can visit again...

Kirumi Tojo

“... You shall know that... I shall try my best to make you feel happy for today, I am at your beck and call.”

She’s going to have to make an impression the best way she knows how, with her selfless devotion of course...

... If your sister actually asked for anything other than sweets, the little girl doesn’t want much okay?

They discuss some topics slightly about you, considering that’s the only thing your little sister actually related with about to Kirumi... not all these fancy cooking techniques or whatever...

... It was a fun conversation, talking helps you grow closer to people too, hm.

[moonlit-nightingale]

.:RP:. Cursed

Warning(s): Trigger warnings for suicide and blood.

Characters: Saranqerel ‘Sari’ Qalli (male Xaela), Akio Obinata (male Xaela), Botan Kurenai (female Raen)

Origin Date: 22 Feb 20

“Death is easy. To live is the most painful thing I could imagine and I’m weak and no longer willing to fight.” —Hannah Wright

Everything is in place. Sari has left his farewell letters and wrapped up his affairs. And so he goes to depart in the quietest way. Though a new friend picks up the signs too late...perhaps the Qalli’s story isn’t over yet.

(Note: This is from an RP session. So there is a back and forth of writers. A - in between paragraphs indicate a change in narrator.)

< Hingan >

> Xaelic <

----

A letter and small box would have been left outside Akio's room a sennight after his and Sari's last talk. Enclosed within the envelope are two documents. One is a letter, one is an official document endorsed by a Gridanian embassy, complete with a corn-yellow seal. It states that Akio is, legally, Enqtani’s legal guardian. There is also a small box like those used to sell the tokens at the charm counter.

My friend,

I know we haven’t known each other long so please forgive my selfish requests especially after I’ve placed such a burden on your shoulders. Enqtani is loved by many at the temple, however I haven’t seen her attach to anyone as closely as you. It has been a short time but a child just knows. The sealed document is official documentation that you are now Tani’s guardian. It may just be a piece of paper but with it I’m trusting you to look after her best interests in my absence.

You have been kind and a wonderful friend. And I have the utmost faith that you will be a kind and wonderful father for Tani. You mentioned once that she should know her roots. There is little to tell. I found her abandoned on the Steppe during a hunt. All I can surmise is that she was a child conceived unwillingly. She has features or the Oronir tribe which were once the leaders of the Steppe and still hold themselves in high authority over others. Not all of them are bad but it is a privileged tribe. I expect you can follow my path in thinking of what may have occurred. If Tani wants to see the Steppe with her own eyes one day, seek out Khenbish of the Buduga at the town of Reunion. He is a healer and a good man. If you can’t find him, search for Yesulun of the Qestir and her mate Khaljar of the Oronir. They are among my dearest friends even if we have parted ways. Unfortunately I am unsure of their whereabouts but their names should be known in Reunion.

Ah, but I’ve rambled on. I wish to make this process as easy as possible for you. Please rely on the others if needed. Mr. Aoki is a stern man but he has looked after Tani many times when I needed assistance.

It is little payment for what I ask for you, but I hope this gift is acceptable. Thank you, Akio, and I thank you on behalf of Tani.

Winds carry you,

-S.Q.

Inside the box, carved from a reddish wood, was a crane. Its wings are spread, every feather meticulously detailed in its carving despite the small size as its long neck and head were raised high in a cry. The figure could rest on a grown man’s palm.

-

Akio's shift for guard duty had ended earlier than expected, that night. And though he was tired, the Eastern Xaela had been in a surprisingly good mood, that ever-present smile a little more genuine as he took long, measured strides to his quarters. A good night's rest after some meditation sounded absolutely splendid to the man.

The presence of the letter and box caused the samurai to pause, however, tail quivering just slightly in alarm as he watched it with keen black eyes. But with heightened guard, there was little worry of it being any sort of trap or bait; he kneeled, slowly, picking it all up and entering his room.

In the privacy of his quarters, he allowed the mask to slip from his face; a frown pulled at his expression as he opened the box, looking over the figure with a delicate awe, and then the letter, reading over the words swiftly.

What laced through his blood could only be described as ice-cold panic as he realized what these words meant.

A Hingan snarl dropped from his lips as he spun around on his heel, movement swift as he threw open the door and bolted down the hall towards Sari's quarters. No doubt the man would want to do it there; the clinic was far too impersonal, and even from their short time, he knew Sari would never wish to inconvenience the clinic staff or distress the patients there.

Thank the Kami he was relieved when he was- it gave him some small hope that this time he may not be too late.

-

But no, the room would be empty if he should knock and try to enter. The wards' rooms couldn't be locked. It was part of the temple's design. Why would a ward of this place have secrets to hide? The futon would be folded neatly in a corner and the room immaculate. Sari never really had too many personal effects and it seemed even those were gone.

The only thing left was a small bundle of letters, left for whoever may have peeked their head in.

-

Another swear, and he turned on his heel, heading for the clinic itself. If Sari wasn't in there... He had no idea where to look. But he wouldn't stop looking.

-

His rush nearly made the clinic's night time attendant eep loudly. There was something about an empty clinic in the dead of the night just just spooked this particular Auri young lady.

"Obinata-san, kami help me." She rested a hand over her chest.

-

Akio paused, examining the lady for a long moment; the mask was back on in an instant, though the smile was strained, showing just how much of a rush she was in.

"Have you seen Sari-san?" he asked quickly, tone leaving little room for questions.

-

That tone has the girl nearly eep once more. She shook her head. "Ah, I mean, he came in earlier for a few moments to tidy up and then left about a bell ago."

-

Tidy up? Why on earth would he need to tidy up the clinic?

"Did he say where he was going? This is- he must be found." He'd apologize to the poor girl properly later- no doubt he was an intimidating sight, agitated as he was.

"He is planning to kill himself."

-

She covered her mouth at those words. "Sari-san? But..." He was always so kind! And quick to help when she'd taken over the clinic duties just a sennight ago!

"I-I don't know. I thought he was going to visit a patient because he took supplies for the intravenous bags!"

-

"Intra..."

Akio murmured as he went over the word in his mind, taking a moment to translate it before another swear fell from his lips. Without another word to the poor attendant, he spun on his heel and ran out. Where could he be?!

Perhaps he left the temple grounds? But if he did, it made it nearly impossible to find him. Unless...

But Jebe never left Sari's side, and so the little bluebird would be little help, even if Akio could find the bird in time to find Sari to keep him from doing the irreversible. Damn it...

His mind was racing as he ran through the temple grounds, searching for any clues to where the Qalli might have gone.

-

As he went by the gardens, there was angry chirping nearby. At this time of the evening? Odd. It was near the small pond where Sari often took Tani to play when she had excess energy.

The bluebird was puffed in anger, flying about the small cage propped up on a rock. It was placed near the walkway, enough that some attendant would have found it the next morning and not endangering the small bird at all.

-

Akio froze when his horn caught the angry chirping, head snapping over.

The Kami were merciful this day! He rushed over, kneeling down with a soft clicking noise as he fiddled with the latch to open the cage.

"<I am here,>" he said quickly, throwing the cage door open for the little bird. "<Take me to him.>"

-

Oh angry birb was angry. He instantly dive-bombed Akio's face before flying off at a surprisingly quick pace down the stone path that led out of the temple.

-

Akio made a short 'pbbth' sound out of reflex. Hey, he was trying to save the man!

But he didn't have time to be offended at the little angry puffball, instead darting after Jebe as fast as the two of them could go.

-

How could such a small lil blue puffball be so quick? Jebe darted over Shirogane's infrastructure, heading down the slopes towards the beaches. Even then he still flew, heading away from the beach chairs, the awnings, away from what would populated areas in the day.

-

The beach... Water...?

It would be out of the way, for certain, leaving it near impossible to find the body. Was that what he'd wanted?

Akio was nearing breathless as he kept on the tail feathers of the small bird, eyes searching for the Qalli in an almost desperate fashion.

-

Rocks dotted the sand in some of the more remote parts, harder to climb and navigate over, rougher terrain.

And that's where Sari sat motionless. He was leaning against one of the rocks facing the water. The IV line ran to that flesh arm, put in with an expert hand. The sedative bag he'd stolen weeks ago was empty, rigged up over a stick.

At least he could watch the water he enjoyed under the silvery light of the moon as he’d fallen asleep.

-

No no no no no no no no!

Akio felt as if he'd been kicked in the chest by An Yeung, breath leaving him in a wheeze as he scaled over the rocks. Normally, he wouldn't have so much as slipped, but tonight he stumbled once or twice, hands flying out to keep himself moving forward.

"<What have you DONE?!>"

The question came out in Hingan, far harsher than he'd meant it, a near roar as he slid to one knee next to the Qalli. The damnable idiot! The stupid... Poor, pained man.

Akio knew better than to let anger lead him to blame. He knew what this was like. But Sari deserved better. To die like this....

"<You're not dying tonight!>" he hissed sharply.

-

But it appeared to be far too late. Sari was a healer of both traditional and aetherial means. He knew well enough of what would happen with a fast drip of a sedative of this nature. A sleepy death, far more peaceful than what he'd deserved. No mess for others to worry about if his body was found.

He hoped no one found him. That those letters were enough.

But those hopes were gone. His breathing had stilled, no rise and fall of his chest under the Eastern cloth. Silvery hair obscured most of his face, that one eye closed, head lulled against the rock and his shoulder.

Akio had been too late, by far, it seemed.

-

No...

Once more, Akio found himself holding a body in his arms, the Xaela quick to gather the Qalli to him as he tried to check for his pulse, his breathing, anything. Teeth gritted against an all-too familiar pain, he snarled, tail lashing against the sand and rocks. Fingers curled into the fabric, head lowered as long blonde locks fell over both his own face and Sari's chest, forehead pressed to his still breast.

"<No, please,>" he whispered, pleading, begging. It was all far too familiar, and the mask cracked, old wounds bleeding once more as he hunched there.

"<You silent, selfish fool.>"

He knew it wouldn't be heard. Knew the Qalli wouldn't be able to retort.

"<What of Enqtani?!>" he yelled now. "<You were her father! No one will replace you in her life!>"

-

It was quiet for once.

A quiet he used to only be able to find in the peace of the Shroud's embrace, days on his own in the Twelveswood. Soon though, even that place became haunted to his memories. There was always...something. Something to drag the Xaela back to the dark.

So he'd given up fighting it. Fell into sin and the bottle without care.

And it was why he finally had the resolve to fade away. He was a ghost. No one would care. Everyone had their lives, their loved ones, their families. Perhaps he was envious. But he was also glad for them.

So he'd smile and wish them all well, even as he faded from their thoughts. And he'd be left to the grey shadowy mist that had become his life. Ever since that day he'd walked into that empty house, a newborn in his arms.

Ever since he'd knew, with certainty, that a happy ending never awaited a ghost.

'>You fought me with such ferocity before. Where is that beast now?<'

The drums, he knew this from before. Before when they had met, it had been a raging river, blood, and mud.

'>I am most disappointed. I cannot allow my vessel to fade in such a pathetic manner. Show me that ferocity, that fire.<'

And suddenly Sari shot awake, falling to his side and away, retching. Breaths forced into his lungs, some force pushing that deadly toxin from his body in no way that should be possible.

-

Akio let out a small, muffled noise of surprise, eyes widening as he let go and nearly jumped back, hands up. What the...

He'd been dead... Dead! There had been no breath in his breast, no pulse underneath his fingers! And so he stared, wide-eyed and startled. How...?

He didn't speak, hands lowering, before one placed itself gently on the other male's back, some minute attempt at comfort.

-

Oh it burned, it hurt, yet was so unbearably cold at the same time. Shudders wracked his slender frame as he retched again and again into the sand. Toxicity was black on his lips, something having gathered all that poison he'd given himself and thrown it out in some unnatural way.

By the time he stilled, he was breathless, gasping for air and covered in sweat. Still not fully grasping what had happened.

An exhausted look to one arm that propped him up. The IV was still there. Then...what had happened?

-

"<You're alive...>"

If it weren't for the breathless awe and disbelief in Akio's tone, one might think he'd been answering Sari's unspoken question. But he wasn't; he was trying to affirm the truth for himself, in his own eyes. Sari was alive. Somehow, in some way, something had saved him.

Even he knew this shouldn't have been possible. And yet here he was, breathing, if barely. "<Easy, Sari-san, easy.>"

-

Sounds were beginning to return outside of the wild pounding of his heart echoing in his horns. The sound of the waves over the surf, a familiar voice. Sitting up, shaky, he saw Akio at his side.

He rubbed his mouth with a wrist, still feeling that sickening bile there. "...Akio-san... How..."

It was night, he hadn't been...out...long then.

"Why am I not..."

Gods, had he failed at this too? Could he even not kill himself correctly?

-

"You were," came the answer, soft and haunted, but he smiled, despite the pain in his eyes. "And now, you are not... I do not know why. I do not know what happened."

He sighed, pulling off the top part of his kimono to drape it over the Qalli, reaching to gingerly take out the IV. It was freezing out, especially at night by the ocean, but...

He didn't seem to mind, simply holding Sari's arm to stop the bleeding from the injection site.

"Why would you..." he trailed off, hesitating as deep black eyes flitted over to Sari's face.

"... What pain you must endure," he finished with a soft murmur.

-

...why? Why couldn't he even do this right? His throat tightened, foul taste still in his mouth. Had he guessed wrong? No, a full bag at that rate of drip, it couldn't have been metabolized in time for him to live. And if what Akio said was true...

A harsh swallow as the other Xaela tended to him, Sari not fighting it one bit. His own mask was in shambles, magitek hand going to cover his face as a sob escaped.

"...I just wanted it to be over," he strangled out. "I don't want to be here anymore, please."

-

Akio paused at this, a small frown pulling at his features as the mask slipped once more. Ah... What should he do?

He knew that people would need to be informed. The priests, for certain. Perhaps the guard, and the clinic staff. Those who would be able to keep an eye out, an eye on the man.

And...

He knew it was improper, but he'd spend enough time in the West that he was able to cast aside his upbringing's teachings for a moment to simply... pull the man into a tight hug.

"...You are much too desired in this world, to leave it so," he murmured softly.

-

"That's a lie!" was the sharp denial and he wanted to fight the hug so badly but he had no strength to, even more so as the tears flowed from that one blue eye. "They all leave, they always live, no one stays. Love doesn't mean anything. Not with me. I'm all alone."

The words he'd held back for so long, for years, gushed forth without stopping. Every little thought that had passed through his mind, that he wasn't good enough, that he wasn't worthy, that he was unwanted.

-

Akio didn't know what to say. He didn't know how to soothe the pain the Qalli suffered, or how to comfort him. So he simply sat there, for the time being, holding Sari, rocking him back and forth and shushing him gently.

"<You're not alone,>" he answered finally, wiping away those tears with one thumb. "<Through all the pain, you are not alone. Your death would leave a hole in the hearts of many, one that could never be filled again. I know not what words to say to convince you of this truth. I can only speak it plainly.>"

He let out a breath, cradling him as Akio sat there, eyes closing.

"<I'm not lying. I promise this.>"

-

"It is a lie. You're lying. I'm sorry." An instant apology at the accusation but it was true. Everyone lied.

Even as he listened to those Hingan words, his spilling out of words continued in Common.

"He said that, too. He said I'd be safe. That I could cry. That we'd be happy. And that he'd never leave me. It was a lie, again and again it was a lie!"

Voice rising to a wail, uncaring of who heard, how much a mess he was, damn his mask.

-

"<Then he was a liar, and a fool, and he never should have held your heart in his unworthy hands.>"

And still, Akio rocked, gently, like the ocean they sat beside as he held the wailing Qalli, holding him securely in his arms.

"<But you have family. Family, and a child, and friends, all of whom adore you and your presence.>" His words came across far better in Hingan; he didn't mind that Sari spoke in Common. He understood him, and so he could get across his meaning better. That was what mattered, just then, to the Eastern Xaela.

"<I'm sorry that you weren't safe... You deserved to be. You have always deserved to be.>" A small, gently squeeze in that hug, the taller man curling over the smaller just slightly. "<If only I could find him and force him to his knees to beg your forgiveness.>"

-

No no no no no. It was still lies. No one wanted him about unless they needed him for something. And Sari wanted to be angry but he couldn't be. They'd found happiness. He hadn't. He couldn't fault his friends that had found peace.

But it was godsdamned lonely when he'd been so close to the same and it had drifted like smoke through his fingers.

"...n-no. He left because I wasn't..."

Good enough? Worthy?

-

"<Because why...?>" came the gentle prodding, one hand rubbing Sari's back gently.

"<If you say it's because you weren't good enough, then you view yourself too poorly.>"

-

Exhausted, face red with his tears and sorrow, he rested his chin on Akio's shoulder and nodded. It was true. He was disgusting, used, weak. That was why. Not smart enough, strong enough, charming enough, brave enough.

-

"<I refuse to believe that,>" Akio retorted firmly, resting his own chin on Sari's shoulder. "<Whoever this weak-willed  man was...>" He trailed off, shaking his head.

"<I don't have the words to describe the kind of filth he was.>"

-

"No, he..." His hands weakly rested against Akio's back. "...he was good. I just wasn't...meant for him. I trapped him."

That's what the bonding had done. Khabi had seen what a weak person he'd tied himself to. That's why he'd left, right?

-

"<If you simply were not  meant for each other, then why did he not say so?>"

Akio shook his head. "<If he wasn't able to tell you such things, to talk to you about it, he was weak.>" He pulled back, looking at Sari with a firm expression, mouth pulled into a frown as he stared the Qalli in the eye.

"<It is not your fault, Saranqerel.>"

-

...it was. It always would be. Why did everyone always leave? There was only one constant in all of that. Those words threatened to spill out but he was so tired, so frustrated that he couldn't even do this deed right.

Shaking his head, Sari looked to the sand. How could he still be crying?

"Can you..." Shite, he was fighting hiccups. "...leave me here?"

-

"No."

The word was spoken in Common now, as he shook his head. There was no way in the seven Western hells he was about to leave Sari alone right now!

"I am afraid I cannot do that."

-

"Please."

How could he go back now? Everything was in place. Things were finally ready. There was finally going to be quiet.

But there was little fight left in the Qalli as he begged. Just let him rest where he wasn't a burden to anyone.

-

"Iie," he repeated in Hingan. "You may rest with me. But I will not be leaving you alone. This is final."

Akio's tone left little room for argument- or at least that was the intent. He didn't know what else the Qalli might do, but he was damn sure not going to let him try again.

-

"...you'll leave...in time."

That was a guarantee. Just wait it out. Like everyone else. As he relaxed his hold on the other Xaela, his hand brush the hilt of that katana the samurai had at his waist.

A weapon he'd learned to use from someone else that had abandoned him, turned against him. There was a flash of anger somewhere deep and before he knew it, Sari went to draw that blade in a swift motion as he leaned back. Quickly he got to his feet, though stumbling a bit as he did so.

There was the softest 'sorry' as he raised the blade, going to drive it into his chest.

-

Akio swore, and in an instant he was on his feet, surging forward to grab at Sari- the sword, his arm, whatever he could grab.

Likely the sword, and the razor sharp blade would cut into his fingers, a pain he would brush aside in favor of throwing the sword away from the Qalli. "<ENOUGH!>" He bellowed.

-

It was just a bit too late, that magitek arm giving the former Adder the strength advantage.

...yes, pain. But it was nothing he wasn’t used to. The sword impaling him through and through before Akio ripped it from his grasp.

...had it been enough? He sunk back down to his knees in the sand.

-

Akio snarled, throwing the sword away now as he grabbed for Sari. If that was how it would be, then so be it.

He was swearing up a storm that would make a seasoned sailor tremble in fear. His goal would be to pick up the Qalli and rush him back to the shrine.

"<I will NOT have your blood on my blade!!>"

-

No! A return of that snarl from the smaller Xaela.

"LEAVE ME ALONE!"

Anger rising to meet anger. Everything had been arranged. It was time to go. He swiped with the claws of that weaponized arm but he was already feeling faint, unable to fight it when the samurai lifted him from the damp sand.

-

"I will not abandon you," came the snarled reply as he bolted over the sand and rock, booking it as fast as his legs could go.

He needed to call ahead, but his arms were full, and so he simply ran, pushing until his legs burned then pushing further.

-

The anger soon faded as the blood loss began to drain him of such things. Soon his head rested limply against Akio's chest. ...and then again he gasped for breath violently, so much like before.

No no no. Could he...not...

>A small spark of that fire, not nearly enough. Impress me, child of the moon.<

-

Once Akio finally reached the shrine, he burst in through the door, offering a silent apology to the resident Kami. Any damages would be repaired later, the Xaela was on a mission.

He called out for the night clinic as he rushed to it, ground Sari as if he were the one dying.

-

That poor young woman was still there and anxious. But at least she had a good enough head on her shoulders to have things ready for the worst. And when she saw the two Auri men, and that blood, she directed Akio to the closest bed.

"...I can't die," Sari mumbled.

-

"No, you cannot," came the response, though Akio misunderstood what it was Sari had meant, immediately rushing the man to the nearest bed and setting him down, immediately backing up to give the woman room to work

. He looked haunted, tail lashing violently as he stood there. "Anything I can do to help, instruct me."

-

There was the sound of books falling over in the back. Botan had been given a room, and yet...she was asleep under a blanket that was under a pile of books, half beneath the low sitting table. A yawn left her as she stretched herself out and nose wiggled at the scent of blood. The shadows eager, but she stilled them. Least another ghostly movement spook another clinic worker.

She got up, dressed in the standard shrine attire she had stolen from the common rooms. Her wooden sandals clicking on the floor as she approached. "Assistance needed?" She inquired with unblinking eyes. "It seems the answer is 'yes,' but will not invade unless wished for."

That tail was still, lips in a straight line, and eyes unblinking as she stood before the scene without an iota of emotion portrayed.

-

Ah the poor healer never ceased to he spooked by Botan, even after knowing she was there!

"Yes, please. This may require stitches."

Though Sari was obviously dazed by the blood loss, he knew...he knew. Why hadn't he died on the Steppe before being found by Khenbish? Had that plunge in the river, those drums...what Shonkhor had seen.

Not a crazed vision?

-

Akio simply bowed his head and stepped out of the room, remaining out of the way of the two medics as he stood against the wall, closing his eyes.

-

Blearily the Qalli tried to get his bearings. The familiar scent of the clinic. He'd been in here just bells before... His mind was still reeling from the revelation. If that's what it was and not some nonsensical shite.

-

Botan was in the room. No ceremony to the matter. Just pulling out a pouch of the pain killing incense from her sleeve and filling the bronze incensor before lighting it on fire. Then she was sitting over Sari. Her hands resting over that wound in the gut, fingers lingering over it as she focused on the composition of aether and murmured calculations on the fly as she steadily studied Sari's biology through the geometric patterns she etched in her mind.

Every bit of her form was still. The shadows seemed to withdraw, shrinking in towards her and feeding into her power as she focused. They were every bit an extension of the small raen woman.

-

To her eyes, she may have seen the shadow that had curled itself tightly into Sari's aether. Foreign, spread evenly through every aspect of the Xaela and content to be where it was. Oddly dormant, just...there. It was nothing like the near feral aggressive curse of the kitsune that he'd suffered from for a good year. In fact, that curse has been completely obliterated by this new presence.

-

Botan was aware of that presence, but did not disturb it. No. She would simply work around it, add it to her calculations, and apply new formulaic patterns of aether into Sari's own. Those that would encourage flesh to stitch itself together and slow the bleeding. Her brow creased and lips pursed together as calculations were rumbled off.

If it would not allow her to heal him, she would simply brute force her way past it. That or she would show it who the scarier creature was. Not that she thought she could bully something like this...something far older than she; a mere raen youth of twenty-some-turns.

-

Oh the presence didn't fight the healing, no. In fact it held strands of aether close, not letting the flesh fall into death. A threshold of sorts. Sari could very much end up close to death but that final step into the lifestream wouldn't be taken.

-

Interesting.

The work was slowly finished and her fingers pressed against the fabric over the wound. Those digits dipped in blood and eyes open again as she sensed how flesh gave way to her calculus. There was no grin of victory. No whoop of astonishment.

No.

This was peculiar. Curious. The violet false eye with its mandala like patterns fixed on Sari.

"You have ventured far and brought shadow back with you."

The pain killers helped sooth her own pains. A twist in her gut told her she had pushed herself too far aetherically, but she ignored it. That tail ticked and she lifted her hands away to look at the blood. No blinking, just...rubbing fingers against one another.

"Fate is not done with you yet, Saranqerel." Then she looked at the woman. "Clean. Stitch the surface wound that remains."

Then there was a yawn. Botan was ready to retreat back to where she came. Like some horror slinking away into their closet until the next time someone had need of her and her arcanistry.

-

The Auri nurse watched with some nerves. How could one not be unnerved watching Botan work? But she nodded and went straight to work. Ritsuka didn't hire weak-willed employees, after all. Especially for the clinic.

The stitches were made evenly, front and back where the blade had pierced. Then wrappings about his middle. And, in some irony, an IV attached for fluids and antibiotics.

Putting everything away and washing her hands, she went to peek out into the hallway. "Obinata-san, he'll be alright."

-

Akio turned his head, and, mask back in place, he smiled, despite the blood that coated his front. It wasn't anything he was unused to, and so it didn't seem to bother him. At least, now that Sari was okay.

"You have my deepest thanks," he said with a low bow.

-

Botan just looked at Akio. The raen quiet, and unmoving in that moment before her stomach growled to cut into the moment.

All she said: "Beef Udon. Three sets."

-

Akio turned his head to look to the other Raen with a chuckle and another bow. "My thanks to you as well- if it will serve to repay even a small portion of my debt to you, I shall see it done."

He turned then, setting off unless stopped, to go get that Raen some damn beef udon.

-

Botan sat on the stool in the room, and just waited. That tail swishing. Good. Though her attention was fixed on Sari again. Academic curiosity in that gaze.

-

The nurse was sure to return the bow with a smile before returning to the clinic. She had to write everything in the changeover log for the day shift and what supplies had been used...as per Mitsue and Mashuel's rules.

As for Sari, he drifted in and out of awareness. But that gaze on him pulled him more to reality. He tiredly looked over, pale and a mess from his sobbing earlier. "...can you see what it is...?"

-

"A thing of the Steppe. This is what their old knowledge tells me..." A hand lifts and taps one horn. Though the shadows are watching. "Well it is my knowledge now."

This is a reference to the Xaela back in the Steppe she had first aetherically devoured to fix her own aether. With it perfectly assimilated she was back to the pale flesh and red hair rather than that ugly dark complexion she never liked. Not that she was a vain creature. Not like her mess of a dead father.

"It is what kept you alive."

-

"...then it wasn't a nightmare." Slowly he pulled the sheets up to his chin. Ugh he was utterly drained on every other possible level. "I can't die then."

Of course...of course. The one solace he could bring to himself, denied.

-

"Death is not an escape." Botan said in an observant matter. "You simply pass the burden of pain to those you leave behind." A flick of the tail. "Look at your friend who tried so hard to fight to keep you alive too."

-

"...he shouldn't have."

Why? Yes, he and Akio had had some good times. But they'd known each other for a few moons. Why would he...bother?

-

Botan didn't even frown. She just fixed her unblinking gaze on Sari. What a dumb question. The tail flicked and she simply breathed deep of the pain killing smoke.

"Every life is precious, even those that are destined to be eaten." Botan explained. "It's not about the why and the who, it is about the preciousness of that gift. The holiness of that cycle."

-

"I don't want it..."

How was any of this a gift? Being left alone again and again. Never being granted a happy ending...

"...can you check on Obinata-san? I think he hurt his hands earlier."

-

It was just then that Akio entered once more, hands wrapped to keep that blood from getting into the udon.

"I do believe I have a delivery!" he announced, far too cheerful for what had happened and how he'd felt not a quarter bell earlier.

He smiled bright, looking to Botan as he held the noodles. "Where do you want me to put these?"

-

Botan looked at Akio.

There is something broken in this one.

Though she at least kept the thought in her head and didn't blurt it out with the same heavy handed honesty she served Sari. That ivory tail flicked, and hands reached out for the udon. In an instant she had the chop sticks plucking up a swirl of the good beefy udon to take a bite.

Any harsh words of knowledge were lost for now. She would just chew and think. Though she did look at the wrapped hands.

No it required none of her energy, let the other woman handle it.

-

Meanwhile in the bed, Sari had to look away. Hand clenched in the sheets. How could he look at Akio after that?

Fortunately he was saved as the nurse came by after cleanup to see that blood. "Obinata-san! What are you doing? Over here!" She grabbed his wrist, trying to pull him over to a medical station.

-

Akio had opened his mouth, wanting to speak with Sari- but then he was dragged away, and he laughed slightly. It would be easy for him to resist, but he let himself follow as if he were no stronger than a child, tail fluttering behind him.

"Hai hai, my apologies miss!"

-

Botan had a moment where she felt like laughing, but didn't. Though her gaze went back to Sari.

"Fate, the Twelve, the Kami, or whatever has given you something, Sari. An opportunity." She moved chopsticks lazily through the soup, gathering noodles. The fat things rolled around through the beef brother as she seemed to play with her food. "An opportunity that you can take, face them down with, and carve your way through the hell you've been given. The question is," she lifted the roll of noodles hanging from the chopsticks, "will you tear down your tormentors, or let them devour you?"

Those eyes looked to him unblinking. "After all, the thing attached to you does look delicious."

-

"Then take it." There may have been a bit of a snap to his tone.

-

Botan shook her head. "Looking delicious and wanting to eat it are different things." Udon noodles were slurped in not-so-graceful a way. "I want to see you challenge your path, Sari. Show whatever gods there are in this world that you will not sit under their heel no more. That is what I really want, because you're a dear friend not a morsel."

-

"I don't give a shite about any of that!" he snapped, fangs bared.It seemed sorrow had warped to anger.

He covered his face. It was so unlike him to be like this.

No one understood. No one got that he was so bloody tired!

-

Akio, from where he'd been taken by the nurse, looked up. It hadn't been hard to hear that in the quiet of the clinic. How he wanted to go to the poor man's side, offer him some comfort, even if he didn't want it.

A soft sigh escaped him, and he looked down once more, to watch as the Raen woman did her work.

-

Botan shrugged. The girl wasn't going to push back and forth with him, and simply moved to stand. There was a look at Akio, and she just left the room to go back to her hiding place in the back room to finish her noodles and get back to sleeping. It wasn't her place to fix broken minds and hearts after all.

-

The Auri nurse was very obviously troubled with the back and forth, but unsure of what to say. So she kept to bandaging Akio's hands, both disinfected and wrapped firmly.

"There. I know it's difficult but try to limit as much use as you can. Ask for help in tasks, alright?"

-

Akio smiled warmly, tilting his head to the side. "Hai,"  he said with a playful sort of reluctance. "If I must trouble others, then I shall under the doctor's orders." A crooked grin given to the Raen woman, before he stood with a bow of thanks, making his way back to Sari's bedside.

-

The Xaela's anger still simmered but there was no one to direct it towards and it quickly fizzled out as he stared out the window. A cold rain had started, obscuring the moon's light over Shirogane. Depressing. Fitting.

-

"Sari-san..."

The name was soft, gentle, as Akio watched the other Xaela, expression turning sympathetic, perhaps almost sad, if not for that smile staying in place. It ill befitted the scene.

-

That burned side was closest to Akio, hiding the one good eye which closed at the sound of his voice.

Anger that he'd been stopped.

Anger that, even if he hadn't been, it wouldn't have meant anything.

Sorrow that someone had to witness all of that.

It's why Sari had slunk off and away.

"...I'm sorry. You should take some painkillers and rest."

-

"I am not leaving you alone."

Despite the gentle tone, it was, once again, firm. Resolute. Akio simply watched as he sat there, watched the Xaela stare out the window, at the rain.

He wanted to be angry, himself, but he couldn't bring himself to be. He was just.... sad. He wanted to help, even if the two of them were near strangers.

"I will be perfectly fine," he added now, tail curling to one side as  he leaned back, smiling. "It is nothing I have not endured before. Perhaps less so."

The Xaela chuckled, tilting his head to one side.

"....I am sorry to have stopped you, Sari-san..." Once again that quiet, gentle tone. Almost regretful, but not quite.

-

What could he say to that? That he accepted the apology? No.

He'd wanted to go. He still did. But that wasn't an option anymore.

....so what did he say?

"Please don't tell anyone else. I don't want to..." Deal with it.

They'd care for a few moments, fuss over him. Then fade back into their happy lives once more. He didn't want to ne envious, bitter. Sari was glad those he knew had found peace. But...he'd wanted it too.

-

"...You need help."

It was a quiet observation, the Xaela almost frowning. Almost. He couldn't let the mask drop again, not like that. By the Kami....

He lowered his head, hands folded together against his forehead as he stared at the floor. What did he answer with? He couldn't just not tell the priests, or Ritsuka. Sari needed to be put on suicide watch, to keep him from doing it again. He needed help....

He needed to want it first, though, this much Akio knew. It was a universal truth to many problems. Someone who didn't want help would only reject it.

"I am certain you are angry with me," he said softly. "And I am certain that you will be angry with me for my answer. But you must understand, I am bound, by contract and honor, to report this."

-

"Feck honor," was the snap, though he kept staring at the window.

What did honor do? The twisted pride of the Steppe? The samurai code those at Kotodama supposedly adhered to? The Grand Company that had thrown him aside because of something he couldn't control?

-

Akio let out a breath, brow furrowing now.

"I will not throw aside mine to suit the ends of another."

-

Grumbles in Xaelic as Sari rolled over despite the pain of his injury. No, he didn't want to deal with this. He may say something more he'd regret.

Safe from death, perhaps, but not safe from the recovery that came of the incident.

-

Another sigh, and Akio settled back in his chair, arms crossed over his front as he closed his eyes. He likely wouldn't sleep tonight, instead meditating. Some form of rest, while keeping alert.

"I said I would not leave you alone, Sari-san," he said gently. "I mean this, as an oath." And Akio did not break his oaths.

-

"I didn't ask for your oath," was the grumpy mumble as he pulled the blanket over his head.

-

Nor did he ask for acceptance. But he didn't voice this aloud, simply remaining silent now.

-

And silence met silence as Sari tried to sleep. As much as he didn't want to, the stress of high emotions and whatever his body was doing sapped him.

Eventually with the sound of the cold winter rain, his eye shut and he drifted off in the darkness of his blanket lair.

[notkunfetti]

Birthday Wishes

Consent and read the E version on AO3

or

read the rated M version below

A deep closed mouth sigh is the first sign of wakefulness. Followed swiftly by a stretch he can feel in his toes before slowly rolling over to wrap his arms around Keith. Except when James’ hand finds nothing but cool sheets, he lifts his head and sleepily calls out, “Keith?”

No answer. He’ll never admit he pouts, but he flops onto his back and groans before forcing himself out of bed. He slips on his briefs—discarded last night and thrown with no care to where they landed—before his bare feet on the floor is the only sound in his room.

It’s eerily quiet in the apartment, and not even Kosmo is lounging around when he finally wanders into the living space. James assumes Keith is out for his morning run, but he plops down on a bar stool overlooking the kitchen anyway.

“What a way to start the day.” He frowns. It’s not unusual for Keith to be gone when James wakes but he was hoping today would be different; considering today only comes once a year.

Either way, he doesn’t have time to mope. The MFEs have training this morning and Captain Shirogane scheduled several meetings on efficiency, supply runs, and alien/human cohabitation. Commander Holt also wanted to run diagnostics on the MFE ships to integrate a coolant system that Paladin Holt invented.

Maybe sometime tonight he could relax and celebrate.

A shower later, however, still doesn’t bring Keith home. He pretends he isn’t bothered; that it doesn’t hurt his boyfriend isn’t around to whisper sweet nothings in his ear and send him off with well wishes of a good day.

He surmised Keith probably just forgot. As leader of Voltron and running missions every other week for the Blades, it probably slipped the paladins mind.

It’s depressing but James gets it. If he were being honest, he’s not sure when the last time he celebrated his birthday was. Before the war, certainly.

It doesn’t dull the sting, however.

But it’s in his closet a while later he finds a surprise. Nearly inconspicuous, he almost misses it. As he fingers over his cadet uniforms, one sticks out in the back. One he knows wasn’t here yesterday.

James pulls it down, holding it out by the hanger so he can take it all in. His breath skips, looking at the dull gray coat, three golden strips decorating the shoulder. The designation of an officers uniform.

However, this is clearly not a Garrison issued coat. There are small differences between the garment he holds and the ones he's admired and longed to have of his own.

The cuff links are different, the circular shape still plain but not the indistinct design the garrison prefers. The button closures also match the cufflinks and the orange cuffs aren’t as vibrant. His last name is stitched onto the chest, just above an invisible pocket on the left side.

It doesn’t matter that it isn’t Garrison issued, James’ breathe is still knocked out of him.

He drags his free hand down the length of an arm, feeling the smooth coarse fabric between his fingers. Dangling from the bottom of the sleeve is a tag, and James flips it in his hand to read the script.

Happy Birthday

Officer Griffin

-K

Even without the signature, James would recognize Keith’s scrawl.

It takes a moment for his mind to catch up with what’s happening, and when it does, James knows he’s holding a delicate treasure.

For so long—as long as he can remember—he’s wanted to be an officer of the Garrison. And while he’s officially reached his goal, with the war efforts there haven't been adequate time or resources for the Garrison to concern themselves with unnecessary garment production.

But this.

This is something else entirely.

James slowly slides the coat on, feels the cool silk of the lining slide along his shower heated skin. His breath hitches as he slips in his other arm, hiking his shoulders for a better fit. He isn’t sure when Keith took his measurements, or if it was a seriously lucky guess, but it molds to shape perfectly.

His fingers travel down the buttons, learning them, memorizing the feel of the coat on his body.

He tries to breathe easy, but one look at the full length mirror in the closet and he chokes on his air. There he is, standing tall in an officers uniform—sans pants since he didn’t get that far—and suddenly, his dream is a very real reality.

“You ruined the surprise.”

With just a slight movement of his eye from his person to above his shoulder, he finds his boyfriend mock pouting, arms crossed in the mirror behind him. Slowly, almost mesmerizingly, Keith moves in front of him, dragging his hand along the back of James’ collar to his shoulder, smiling softly.

“It suits you.”

James blinks, disbelievingly as Keith’s focus shifts and he starts to button up the jacket and his fingers rest hanging off the belt loops once its clasped. Swallowing hard to keep his voice even, he speaks in whispers with impossible effort.

“You got me an officer's jacket? How?”

“Being Black Paladin has its perks.” Comes his easy reply with a shrug, a knowing look in his violet eyes. James looks between them with a whirlwind of emotions, nearly disbelief that he would receive such a thoughtful gift—let alone any gift—and the fact that it’s from Keith causes his heart to pound loudly in his chest.

James didn’t think he could love any harder.

That rush inside him is immediate and can’t be contained. He scoops Keith into his arms, wrapping one arm around his waist and another to the back of his neck, his fingers tangling with Keith’s long dark hair.

He kisses Keith deep with as much devotion he can pour into such a simple act. Keith responds in kind, cradling his cheeks in his hands, moving slightly to better fit against James’ lips.

It’s heavenly, James feels like he’s floating. Keith’s surprise has him on top of the world, yet a small part of him feels unworthy. That Keith’s kindness is directed towards him, when it could be put to better use, well, it makes James want to return the favor that much more.

What could you possibly give Keith he doesn’t already have, Griffin?

Maybe he can show Keith now grateful he is. Share these emotions, so Keith feels what he feels.

To be the one to make his boyfriend float .

He breaks the kiss, to breath nothings into Keith’s neck, “I’m going to thank you so good.”

Keith laughs from his chest, deep and rumbly, “But we haven’t had cake yet.”

“There will be time for cake later.” He sighs, pushing Keith until his back is against the mirror and James is crowding his space, as close as possible until their bodies fit together like puzzle pieces. He dips his head to kiss Keith again, using the leverage of the wall to hike one of Keith’s legs over his hips as pale arms wrap around his neck.

Keith responds accordingly, lifting his other leg so James can hold him up, his long limbs now wrapped tightly around James, completely encompassed in the best way possible.

Between heated gasps of breath, James moves away to admire Keith, taking in his flushed cheeks that match beautifully with slick swollen lips. The sight pools desire low in his gut and he involuntarily grinds his hips into the warm body in his arms, his longing evident as the friction sends a torturous shock through his body.

Keith moans, eyes closed and is the literal definition of agonizingly beautiful.

Just as James is about to trail kisses along the paladins neck, the chime of a clock goes off in the other room, signaling the top of the hour. With a defeated groan, his head dejectedly falls to Keith’s shoulder instead, a reluctant croak of, “I have to get ready,” tumbling out of his traitorous mouth.

Keith grabs James’ hands just as he tries to move away. He holds firm as he pants, “I’ve already cleared your schedule for the day.”

Oh!  

Halted by delighted surprise, it takes his brain a solid second to process what Keith said before backtracking to heated thoughts of moments ago.

“God, I love you.” He whispers in unrestrained awe. His boyfriend just nods, tugging James back with the collar of his coat to get their lips back together.

Not one more moment passes before he’s gripping Keith tighter, adjusting him in his arms so he can carry him to their bed.

They fall with a small oomph . Taking Keith’s clothes off is easy work, just a tee and those damn skinny jeans that drive him crazy. However, it doesn’t go unnoticed that his coat is still clasped shut but when he goes to remove it, warm hands stop him.

“No, leave it on.”  

Brown eyes widen but a smug smirk grows on his lips, “Keith, I had no idea you had a—“

Before he knows it, Keith flips them and settles on James’ hips easily, a perfectly self-satisfied grin on his handsome face.

“Shut up.” He demands, no heat in his words but James recognizes that tone of command. And despite the rosy tint to Keith’s cheeks, James knows better than to tease him further. Instead, Keith pushes him down when he tries to lift his head as his boyfriend moves away, sliding away to stand, slipping off his briefs as he goes.

-----

When he returns to reality, he’s vaguely aware of Keith, lying next to him, trying to catch his breath. He must have collapsed after—James isn’t sure since he transcended the atmosphere.

When he’s conscious enough to breathe solid again, his voice is wobbly and he barely recognizes it, “Happy birthday to fucking me.”

“And I thought you were going to thank me .”

The sarcastic brat.

James reaches over and pinches his nipple. Not enough to hurt but enough to make Keith yelp. It’s also when he notices that the front of his coat is completely covered in white ribbons of their release.

He flops back down, eyes closed. He can’t believe his gift is already ruined.

“Babe.”

No answer, but the sound of their collected deep breaths.

“Keith!” He drags the syllable, flopping his hand over and over on his boyfriend, effectively tapping him repeatedly. Keith responds a second later, trying to push James’ arm away from where his fingers brush against his nose.

“My coat!” He pouts.

The bed dips and shakes with Keith’s movement, following a loud, “ pffft! ”

“That’s a shame.” Keith says with no sympathy whatsoever. In fact, it’s a lot like humor lacing his voice.

James grumbles, sitting up and roughly tugging the garment off before tossing it to the floor to be dealt with later.

He grabs for Keith instead, pulling him up towards their pillows with zero eloquence. The paladins protests are half hearted at best, moving willingly as James covers them both, snuggling into Keith as the big spoon.

“I could sleep all day.” He yawns into the back of Keith’s neck, his hair tickling his nose as he nuzzles. He doesn’t mind too much, however, when Keith hums a reply and wiggles a little closer. Their hands intertwine over Keith’s waist and before he falls asleep, he can’t help but think this is already the best birthday he’s had in a long time.