Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Ma, you better get moving or you're going to be late!” Hiryu called annoyed, as be sat on the kitchen counter eating a peach. It was a sticky summer evening, the cicadas sang out in a chorus of chirps. The sun was a third of it's way completely set, igniting a section of the room in a burning orange rectangle. The darkened areas appeared to slither across the ceiling. Hiryu slid off the counter and made his way to dispose of the remains of his snack in the trash bin. Wiping the sticky juices on his shirt. “MA FIVE MINUTES TILL 7:30!” He waited anxious as his mother's bedroom door swung open. “Alright, Alright. Calm down!” She argued buttoning her shirt. Before pausing to sniff the air “You were eating peaches again?” Ryuko looked at her son in disappointment.

“They're good!” Hiryu protested “Besides it's summer they taste best in season!” “It's only June kiddo, you have two more months for peaches. Eat protein, or something green!” she enforced fastening her gaudy bright pink tie around her neck. “Eating the same thing over and over will mangle your insides, have you seen my badge?”

She dug through the contents of a bowl holding her car keys and sunglasses before recovering and slowly pinning it to her shirt. “Hurry up, someone might be getting robbed as we speak!” Hiryu scolded his mother only to be met with one of her famous doubtful looks. “Yeah you're right.” He said with a chuckle.

Nobody was getting robbed, he knew it, Ryuko knew it, the whole town was well aware that there was no reason to lock their doors. If anyone was to sneak into somebody else’s house it would be to sneak something tasty in. “Are you sure you don't want to go with me tonight? There's some kind of festival where I’m patrolling, you can play some games!” Ryuko informed playfully shaking her coin purse before sliding it into her back pocket. “I’m not a kid anymore mom, I don't play those kinds of games anymore!” Hiryu protested. “You’re never too old for games!” Ryuko replied melodramatically placing hand on her heart to match her overdramatic shocked face.

Her expression swiftly changed to a casual mothers look of love for her child: “ You just want to stay home and watch a dirty movie, or look up naughty things on the internet.” She teased bursting out laughing. “Yeah right, not my kid!” She kept on laughing at her sons expense. Hiryu stood there blushing. “Oh well, I'll give you two hours of computer and that’s it. Bed by midnight no phone!” she informed “ I'll be home at five.” She opened her arms for a hug which he gladly accepted. Giving his mother a kiss on the cheek. “Be safe mom!” he requested. “Am I ever not?” she replied “I’ll win a goldfish.” Hiryu gave her a smile. “I don't need one!” he protested. Ryuko giggled winking at her son: “Who said it was for you?”

Hiryu watched his mother: exit the house, get in her car, and drive off. “Alright, protein or something green.” He told himself making his way to the kitchen. Looking through the fridge he found chicken and green beans. As he began prepping the chicken and beans, he switched on the radio for ambient noise.

“WELCOME BACK TO THE SHINMANGA VARIETY HOUR WHAT WHAT!” Hiryu rolled his eyes as he sliced the chicken. “TODAY MY BOY SHIHAI HAS ANOTHER ONE OF HIS CRRRAAAYYYYZZZZEEEEE SIGNS OF THE APOCALYPSE!” The announcer screamed into the microphone. “Crazy is not the word to describe them: tragic, disturbing, sadistic? Those are how I'd describe them.” The one called Shihai replied in a scratchy but youthful voice.

“WHATEVER YOU SAY MAN, IT'S JUST SOMEONE SAYING A GIANT RAZOR BLADE MONSTER DESTROYED THE BUILDING AND SMASHED MY FRIEND , OR THE WHOLE SCHOOL MELTED AND I JUST SO HAPPENED TO BE OUTSIDE SOUNDS PRETTY BOGUS. YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN?”
“Yes on paper, but have you seen the damage?”
YEAH I SURE HAVE. AND THEY'RE THE RESULT OF SOME TERRIBLE EARTHQUAKES!

You sound like a governor trying not to cause a scene, how can two earthquakes cause such devastation to only one building EACH, in their respective areas? And isn't it also convenient that they were both schools affected by the damage?

I DUNNO MAN? ARE YOU SUGGESTING THAT PEOPLE DID THIS? AND THEY DID IT BECAUSE THEY DIDN'T LIKE CLASS THAT MUCH? NOT EVEN LUNCH?
Hiryu rolled his eyes at how stupid this conversation was. All this talk of giant monsters, and melting buildings drowning hundreds of students and staff members. Everyone knows it's all a hoaxes created to give some sort of reason for all the tragedies that had been on the rise the past few months.

"Will you be serious? Have you seen the pictures of the melted school? "

"YEAH IT WAS PROBABLY JUST A PIPE BURST, THAT WAS CAUSED BY BAD CONSTRUCTION!"

"We dedicate sixty percent of our tax dollars on our school systems. Why would the construction of a six story building of one of the worlds best gifted and talented schools in the world be so faulty that one small pipe burst could causes such devastation? And why aren't the press allowed to speak to the survivors? They all end up getting sent to god knows where! The world deserves an explanation!"

"SO WE CAN END UP WITH MORE VIRAL VIDEOS LIKE THE ONE WHERE THAT GINGER GI-"

Hiryu switched off the radio in annoyance. Before drizzling his meal with a healthy dose of salt. Then plated and carried it to the computer room. Setting his meal down next to the keyboard he logged into his desktop account, and was greeted by his Minecraft screensaver. “God I really need to change that, A sixteen year old does not need to be playing that.” He told himself launching a game of “Dragon Kingdom” As the loading screen prepared his map, Hiryu took a big bite of his meal. After several more the game had finally been fully set up.

He scanned the screen clicking on certain areas of the map that had his daily rewards set up, and meters filled signaling whatever had been prepared the night before was ready for use. He played for two hours. Taming dragons, and powering up his manna and intellect bars. It had been a pretty good night of gameplay, at least Hiryu thought so. He checked his phone to see the time had now read Ten O'clock. Exactly when a notification from his mom popped up with an image attached. The image reveled Ryuko holding up a plastic bag with a goldfish inside, and the caption: “Meet your new brother, I'm thinking Bruce or Moby.” Hiryu smiled typing: “How old are you?” After a few seconds of waiting she finally wrote her reply. “Young enough to still have fun, how about you? 😋” Hiryu set down his phone with an amused sigh. Then his computer dinged.

A notification on the game requesting a chance to talk.

Ph@nt0mtheif18: Heyo pal I need some sapphire shards for the Cobalt Wyvern Egg, and I neeeeed to hatch it before the fortnight event is over tomorrow! Mind sparring some?

Hiryu starred for a second, almost tempted to delete the message and log out, until:

Ph@nt0mtheif18: I’ve got some Griffin Heartstrings, Unicorn Blood, Great Serpent Scales! All yours if you help me out!

A friend request for Ph@nt0mtheif18 popped up. “Well you're an actual person.” Hiryu said to himself. Before answering the request to talk. But not the friend request just yet.

DraGOONshroud47: You have Griffin Heartstrings, but not Sapphire Shards?

Ph@nt0mthief18: Yeah, sorry I missed a few days of mining because of IRL drama 😑 it's not fun at all!

DraGOONshroud47: IRL drama?

Ph@nt0mthief18: My moms such a bitch! She always makes me do all this pointless shit cause she says it's healthy for me!

DraGOONshroud47: My moms the same, but she can also be pretty chill!

PhantomThief: Oh my bad, cursing up a storm with someone I just met. I don't even know where you're from.

DraGOONshroud47: I’m not use to seeing someone say things like that. But it's not that big of an deal….I guess.

Ph@nt0mthief18: Ah ok, what does your mom do? For work I mean! Or is she a stay at home mother? Those are fine too.

DraGOONshroud47: I'm actually technically adopted. But she's basically acts like my birth mother. She works for the police.

Phantom Thief: A cop huh? Does she arrest a lot of bad people?

DraGOONshroud47: No actually she doesn't, crimes not that big of a thing here. She’s basically a safety inspector in a police uniform.

Ph@nt0mthief18: Is crime a big thing anywhere?

DraGOONshroud47: Guess not.

Ph@nt0mthief18: And your dad?

Ph@nt0mthief18: Oh sorry I meant your adopted dad

DraGOONshroud47: He died

Phantom Thief: Aw that’s terrible, was he a cop too?

“No he died o-“ Hiryu started before pausing to think. “Why am I telling this person something like this? What does he care. Just block him! Decline the friend request and everything will turn out all ok. I have an hour before bed. There will be some sort of Comedy on TV.” He attempted to reassure himself.

DraGOONshroud47: How about I just transfer the Sapphire Shards to you, and then I have to log off

Ph@nt0mthief18 : Aw man I didn't hit a rough spot did I? Come on? We can talk about the game for real!

DraGOONshroud47: No, I'm actually pretty tired. I'm going to sleep

Ph@nt0mthief18: Don’t lie, You just don't want Mama to get mad at you! Oh wait or should I say you don't want Miss Ryuko getting mad at you!

Hiryu’s heart stopped “How did this person know that? Who are they? Was this even about the game? How do they know who mom is? Maybe they’re one of those hackers? The game recently had a security purge for dead and hacked accounts. Maybe this guy snuck through. Does “Dragon Kingdom" connect to Facebook and they found her through the-“

Ph@nt0mthief18: Whoa your moms an absolute B.A.B.E! What’s with the weird pink tie? And why's she holding a fish? Police Force can't afford a dog?

The link to whatever picture they sent glowed blue. Hiryu hesitated, but finally clicked the link. It took a second to load. Then she appeared on screen. The image of his mother. Standing there smiling at a young boy. Her gaudy tie noticeable as ever. The bag with the unnamed fish clenched in her hand. Her gentle smile acknowledging whatever the boy was saying as he held his own fish up to her. It was her alright. But how?
Ph@nt0mthief18: You're right about the safety inspector thing, she hasn't even noticed me.
Alarms went off in Hiryu’s head. His stomach collapsed, the state of shock overpowered him. “M-M-MOM!”

Hiryu lunged for his phone. Flipping it open and scrolling through his contacts in a state of panic. He only had around seventeen but it felt like he had been scrolling throughout hundreds of names. And then he saw it, “MOM” he clicked on her name and hit “Call”. He listened as the line rang, his body trembled with fear as the shrill ringing echoed in the earpiece: “Who are they, what do they want, why are they doing thi-
“Hello?” Someone answered! “MOM?” Hiryu cried out his voice cracking as tears began forming in his eyes. “Not even close, so about those Emerald Shards?” a voice replied. It was cracking, unnatural, someone using a voice changer? “What, no accepting my friend request? That’s fine, I'm sure the safety inspector will want to have some fun!”

The plate Hiryu had used to eat began vibrating, followed by a slight spinning motion, and then it rose. The plate was now levitating, vibrating mid air a bit longer before launching itself at Hiryu. Hitting him in the arm, it caused him to cry out in pain upon impact, falling backwards onto his rear. “Or do you want to play something more immersive.” The plate had rebounded off of him and shattered upon hitting the floor, Hiryu groaned in pain as he cradled his arm where it had been hit. A bruise had begun to take shape. But this wasn’t the time to nurture it, asahe had looked up to see the computer btoin to levitate as well, before launching itself at him at an angle. But this time he was quick enough to get out of the way of the assault. Running through his home and out the door.

Without even stopping he made his way through empty alleyways and around corner stores. Wandering aimlessly for fifteen minutes. Moving as quick as possible, his arm continued to ache. It hardly felt like just a bruise anymore, almost like something was slicing into his arm.. He looked down at it to see if his bruise had grown! Only for what be saw to cause him to enter a state of shock. Not looking ahead of himself, he tripped over his own feet and fell headfirst into a large figure.

Hiryu looked up to them and was met with the face of a traditional Oni mask. “Whoa there my friend, are you alright?” the Oni asked the voice was shrill and dainty. “My, my, my mother i-i-i-is" Hiryu could only get so much out. The Oni tilted their head in confusion. “Wh-whats the mask?” Hiryu asked. The figure appeared to gaze harshly at him through their fake face. The eyes we're greenish yellow. The face was a dark reddish beige color like burnt flesh. And upon further inspection the mask was decorated with a subtle, curved pattern carved into the wood that swayed back and forth almost trapping Hiryu in some kind of trance.

“I was at the festival” the Oni replied their voice filled with confusion. “THE FESTIVAL!” Hiryu cried out in panic: “Is it close? Can you take me?” He pleaded to the Oni still in a state of urgency. “Yeah, it's real close.” They replied. Once more tears had filled Hiryu’s eye. He was so nervous. Where was his mother? He needed to see his...ARM! Hiryu looked down in a panic at it to find the large bruise still there. It was a crooked oval that looked as if it was throbbing. But nothing like he thought he saw before. Before running into the Oni his bruise had turned green and bumpy like an infection. But it had since apparently disappeared. Maybe he was just imagining it. That’s right the stress must have been making him see things.

As he continued to follow his guide, the lack of infection on his arm took a little off his mind, but it did make him recall something. How’d this person send a photo? Dragon Kingdom was a game meant to be played on desktop only. There wasn't an app. If this person took a picture on their phone, then they'd have to have a laptop nearby to send it to him. Someone carrying a laptop wouldn't be considered that unnatural would it? But for someone planning to not olnly harm someone, while having a conversation with another, and hopping not to get caught. It would be really inconvenient to say the least…right? Unless they were talking to Hiryu after the deed had been already finished! Hiryu pulled out his phone and opened its app store. Using the search bar Hiryu typed Dragon Kingdom. 52 items popped up: “Wallpapers for Dragon Kingdom, Dragon Kingdom Cheats, Dragon Kingdom Minecraft PE mods, Dragon Kimgdom, ect.” But no mobile version. Hiryu put away his phone confused. The lack of answers leaving him unsatisfied. Looking up at his surroundings it appeared at one point the two had entered an are with no lights at all. It was quieter than anywhere he'd have ever been. And with nobody around the feelings of solitude hit Hiryu like a truck. Solitude…where was the Oni?

His guide had disappeared! Hiryu surveyed the area…nothing! But that was the least of his worries. Looking around he realized that, hadn't been lead into some empty lot, but he had reached his destination. The night sky dimly lit his surroundings. He'd been so busy trying to figure out how his antagonist took the picture that he didn't notice right away that he had already reached the festival, or what had been the festival.

Surrounding him was a mix of broken game booths. Toppled over food stalls. And demolished trailers. The air was filled with a mist that smelled like smoke and blood. The air was silent. Nobody was around. Nobody could be sensed for miles. Nobody alive at least. Hiryu looked to his right once more and instantly covered his mouth as he dropped to his knees. Out of nowhere on the ground under a single spotlight, lying in a small puddle was a plastic bag. The kind that held his mothers fish. Hiryu removed his hands and threw up on the ground. Panting his mind went blank. For the first time that night his mind was blank. All he could do was pant and cry. Finally he was able to let out a single word: “MA!”

“Yes?”

Hiryu looked up to see his mother looking down at him concerned. “Sweetie what are you doing here? I thought you were staying home?”. Hiryu looked up at her confused, his eyes still filled with tears: “Wha-…what happened?” he was finally able to let out. “There was an earthquake, sweetie what happened to you, you're a mess?” she asked whipping the tears from his cheeks. Hiryu lunged in to hug her squeezing her tightly. “I'm so glad you're ok!” he sobbed burying his face in her shoulder. Ryuko rubbed his back as she normally did when he was upset. “Its alright baby, there were no casualties, just a few injured. It wasn't even strong enough to reach home, how did you know about it?” Hiryu’s grasp on his mother tightened. “I'm just so glad you-" “Why didn't you give me the sapphires” Ryuko interrupted.

Hiryu gazed up at her. Her expression went blank as she starred at him in the eyes. Then it began, Ryuko entered a fit of coughing. Followed by her eyes sinking into their sockets which then erupted out as a brown liquid that also began to ooze out of her nose and mouth and into Hiryu’s face. The tattered festival around him ignited in an inferno of blue flame that released a heavy veil of smoke into the center. Hiryu shook in terror as the rest of his mother turned a shade of muddy brown and began to ooze into puddles on the ground. The rest of her splashed all over Hiryu’s face and torso. Covering his arms so that his bruise had become hidden. The mixture of the rotten liquid that had just been his mother mixed with the smoke created a toxin that felt as if it would suffocate him. Hiryu opened his mouth and for the first time that night he asked what he had been thinking since getting the messages: “why…WHY?” He called out in a mix of terror and despair. “WHY!”

His hands that were engulfed in his mothers remains begun to sink. Startled he began to pull back to free them, but to no avail. They were stuck and being yanked under. He tugged again only for his feet and legs to begin sinking too. Hiryu flailed around in an effort to break out, only for it to be futile. The ground continued grabbing at him, yanking him under. Until all that was left was his shoulders. The muddy substance reached up and wrapped around his neck. He sunk further and further under. He almost couldn't breathe: “I don't want this, I don't want to die!” he sobbed gasping for breath. The fire dispersing in a small area and the Oni approached from inside. It strutted over to Hiryu's head and peered down. Its eyes slicing into his. The trance the mask produced was in full effect. “Don’t worry, don't fret! In a matter of moments you'll be closer to your mother than ever we'll l all be so close to one another!”

Chapter Text

“Alright, just a little….bit….more!” Reiko told herself, as she deeply concentrated on painting. She held the brush firmly in her stiff hand as it transferred red paint onto her bizarre choice of canvas. Reiko loved two things, the supernatural and painting. And nothing made her happier than putting the two together. “AAAAAnd done!” Reiko cheered sliding her chair backwards to get a good angle look at her creation. It gazed back at her: a Japanese kettle made of paper mache. Using bronze acrylic Reiko was able to make it look almost like the real thing. Using balls of cotton mixed with modeling foam and impaled on a stick gave the kettle the impression that steam was being released from its spout. It sat crooked on a base painted to look like an open flame. But the most distinct feature was the kettles face. Yes the kettle had a face painted on, adorned with wide googly eyes and a silly grin. Its tongue crept from it's mouth in a playful fashion.

Reiko stared at it with pride. She looked around her room at all of the other paper mache characters that decorated it. All sorts of urns, lutes, and lanterns hung around. Other areas adorned with women in white covering their faces, or having extremely long necks or foreheads. In the center of it all sitting on a vanity was the figure of a much different sort of woman. A Yurei from folklore, she had black hair that stretched down to her shoulders, a bright white robe, and a calm face. Resting against this piece was a worn and tattered doll that looked like a mummy. Reiko gazed at if for a bit. Her smile fading. Then her door swung open.

Reiko looked over as Kan her caretaker at the time stepped into the room. His face contorted in displeasure as his eyes pierced through her. “Do you have any idea what time it is?” Kan asked not letting up his glare. Reiko's heart began beating “no” she peeped starring at the floor. “Three a.m.” he replied “Two more full days before school begins, and you should be getting use to a sleep schedule.” Kan scolded her as she continued watching the floor. “It’s impolite to not look someone in the eye when they talk to you.” Reiko obliged lifting her head. Her eyes beginning to water. Kan’s expression changed entirely to one of sympathy. “Ah come on kid, I'm not that upset with you.” Kan stated looking to the side. He motioned to her bed “Mind if I sit?” he asked, to which she nodded.

“Alright, what’s the matter? Nobody gets that sad about me getting onto them!” Reiko sat in silence not knowing if she should open up to him. “I spoke with your father about you being here, he says you get uneasy about being far away from him.” Reiko didn't speak. “You know you're free to talk with him over the phone whenever right?” This time Kan took the hint that she just didn't want to talk about it at the moment. He looked around her cluttered room. Her walls covered in gothic images, and works of art. you make all of these yourself?” Kan asked pointing at one of her Yokais. A sake jug with yellow eyes and a tipsy grin. “They're pretty creative!” Reiko remained silent. Vlad looked at her with a calm expression: “Well I bet you're not the only one still up, but hit the sack alright? We've got a visitor who wants to meet all of you coming by tomorrow.”

Vlad left the room closing the door behind him. Reiko listened as his footsteps faded in the distance: “Lights out Yo! Not telling you again!” Reiko barely made out. Turning her head back to the Yurei. Lifting up the tattered mummy she gave it a hug. “Night mom!”

“Do you want milk or juice?” Juzo asked looking in the fridge. Moving his hand from one to the other in anticipation. “What kind of juice?” Tatami asked whipping her sleepiness out of her eyes. As she thought a bowl of rice and eggs appeared in front of her. Breaking her thoughts she replied with a “Thanks Shouji!”. The larger boy nodded to her before placing another bowel in front of Reiko. “Thank you!” she said quietly. Shouji proceeded to place bowls in the remaining three spots. One for Juzo who was at the moment pouring juice into a glass. One for Yo who had yet to come downstairs. And one for himself, for which he said his thanks for and began to eat. Reiko watched him dig in, Shouji was a great guy, but he also was undoubtedly intimidating. A lot of which was thanks to his torn up lips, and sliced cheeks. Reiko continued to watch him for another minute before a glass of juice was set down in front of her. She looked up to see Juzo retract his hand and sit down beside her. “Thank you.” Reiko said nodding her head to the albino boy in the orange coat. Juzo nodded back to her as he placed a bite of egg in his mouth covering his lips as he chewed. Reiko’s eyes then wandered to Tatami who uncharacteristically had her hair down, drinking a glass of milk. And then finally Reiko looked down at her Breakfast. Taking her spoon she began to poke the egg's yolk causing it to burst open and drown the rice.

“Everything alright.” Shouji asked gazing at her. Reiko stuttered “No-no, I mean yes everything’s great I just like for it to cool first!” Reiko explained. This was a lie, the truth was Reiko wasn’t that use to other people. Her anxiety made sure of that. And with her middle school shoving her into isolation because of her awkward nature. And with how protective of her as her dad was, it wasn't like she had that much a social life out of school. She still couldn't believe he was letting her attend a high school so far away. Reiko took a bite of her meal.

“Where's Yo? His foods going to get cold and he'll throw a fit again!” Tatami whined looking at the entrance of the dining room. “Still sleeping?” Shouji spoke up. Tatami groaned “Ugh if he even went to sleep!” Reiko watched her go back to eating. “He was up at three this morning.” Reiko spoke up causing all three to look at her. As said In the three weeks of settling into living in this house she had hardly ever spoken. Aside from the occasional nod or one word response. So to hear her speak a full sentence caught everyone's attention. She looked at all of them who were starring at her intently. “….what?” Reiko asked as everyone instantly went back to eating.

"So what were you doing up so late?” Shouji asked, “If you don't mind me asking!” Reiko gazed at him. This was the first time someone aside from her father asked her such a thing. None the less someone her age! “Oh no! It's not a secret or anything” Reiko started “I was doing, paper mache!” she said looking down “That’s neat!” Juzo exclaimed, causing Reiko to quickly look up and be met with his toothy grin. Shouji sitting next to him, giving her a smile and thumbs up. While beside him was Tatami looking at her confused: “Wait paper wha?” she asked squinting her eyes. “It's like a shape made from glue and paper that can be made to look like all sorts of different things.” Juzo explained. Tatami stared at him confused as ever making Juzo and Shouji laugh. Reiko let out a small chuckle. “Here I'll go get one to show you!” Reiko said getting up from her chair and sprinting to the door.

“I'm actually talking to them!” Reiko silently cheered making her way down the hall and into her room. Snatching up the kettle that had just finished drying, and began making her way back to show her newly made acquaintances. Only to stop halfway. Her reason being she heard a noise. Shifting through the room she had just passed by. She stood still listening intently. “Please don't be up, please don't be up, please don't be up!” she prayed, her grip on the kettle tightened. Another moment of silence an then a creak. Without hesitation Reiko dashed down the hall almost slipping on the hard wood floor. She would attempt to get along with the others just not him.

She entered the dinning room where Vlad had joined in with everyone. He stood at the counter with a cup of coffee in his hand. He looked over to Reiko and waved. As Reiko set the kettle on the table in front of Tatami. “Paper Mache!” Tatami looked at it confused. “That’s a kettle!” Tatami replied poking it. “WOAH IT FEELS WEIRD!” Shouji laughed at her response: “That’s cause its made of paper!” he chuckled. Tatami gave him a surprised look. “She made this…out of paper?” Juzo laughed this time. Even Kan chuckled. “What’s the face for?” Juzo asked turning it to himself and barring his teeth at it. “It’s a Yokai!” Reiko replied. “Does it have a name?” Juzo asked still making faces at it. “If it does I'm not sure what it would be.” She answered again. Kan looked over to Reiko. “What do you mean?” Reiko blushed. “I’m just saying if I accidentally make it a certain way that mimics a real one. I don't want it getting offended.” There was a moment of silence “Alright cool!” Shouji spoke up as the others followed “It's super neat!” Tatami said handing the kettle back to its owner.

“By the way, Yanagi was Yo up?” Vlad asked before finishing up his coffee. “Um I heard someone moving bu-" “SHUT UP IM HERE" someone barked from behind her. Reiko turned to see a groggy Yo Shindo standing in the entryway. His eyes dazed and his shirt missing. The only thing he was wearing was a pair of sweatpants. “What’re you all doing up so early?” he complained rubbing his eyes. “Why aren't you wearing a shirt?” Kan spoke up, glaring at the tired boy. Yo turned to him in annoyance. “The ground…probably?” the shirtless boy answered. A confusing answer with very unsubtle sarcasm.

If there was one person Yanagi could count out when making friends with it was Yo Shindo. At first meeting he appeared as kind spoken and friendly. However it was a ploy because after the first three days he had become nasty and rude. He was foul mouthed and his temper unpredictable. Reiko tried to avoid him at all times. Knowing that if she gave him the chance he'd rip her to pieces. Emotionally and physically.

“GO PUT ON A SHIRT!” Kan hollered. “Yanagi, you should put away your friend as well.” Reiko spun around and rushed to her room. “Alright, he's out. But he'll be back in his room soon.” She told herself entertaining her domain and setting the Kettle on her desk. “Alright now to finish BREA-" as she turned around she was met face to face with Yo. He wore a bewildered expression as he looked around her room. “Whoa this place is a freak show.” He teased.

“Please don't come in without permission!” Reiko requested backing up to her desk. Yo sneered at her. “So which one is mom?” Reiko clenched her fist. “What’s that supposed to mean?” she asked. “Reiko Yanagi, daughter of a widower librarian. His wife died when his daughter was four years old. Causing him to become annoyingly overprotective. So overprotective that he wouldn't let her go to Bāninguāto. So she's ended up stuck in the-“ “SHUT UP!” Reiko interjected. Yo began again “To the dunce school with all of th-" “SHUT UP AND GET OUT!” Reiko interjected once more this time attempting to push Yo out only for him to dodge and retaliate. Delivering a swift punch to the gut causing Reiko to cry out and kneel to the ground, the wind knocked out of her “With the rest of the dunces that need someone to tell them how to live.” Reiko stayed bent over, her stomach aching as she heard Yo walk around. “I’m taking this one ok?” He asked grabbing an umbrella Yokai off of a table. “Oh and while you’re doing what people tell you. Don't tell anyone what happened here.” He tapped her on the head with the umbrella. “You won't like what happens if not.” As he walked out tears began to flow down Reiko's cheekss. “Who does he think he is? And why did I let him do that?”

As she made her way back to the table she was relived to find neither Yo or Kan there. Shouji had already started on washing the dishes of those who had finished. Juzo and Tatami looked up at Reiko as she sat down. “Is everything alright?” Juzo asked placing his hand on her shoulder. “Yes, why wouldn’t they be?” Reiko lied. “We heard you scream ‘Shut up', so we thought something must have happened with Yo.” Reiko replied with another lie “I was yelling at my alarm clock. The buttons are faulty!” . At this point Shouji was looking over at her with concerned as well.

“SO, WHY ARE WE DOING THIS?” Yo hollered as he made his way into the room. “WHAT IS THE POINT OF BEING FORCED INTO SUBMISSION BY A BUNCH OF NERDS WITH POCKET PROTECTORS, INTO DOING THE SAME BULLSHIT FOR THE REST OF OUR LIVES? GUIDED LIKE SHEEP INTO A POSITION IN LIFE WERE SUPPOSED SO SAY WE ENJOY.BUT THAT’S JUST BRAINWASHING!” BY This point he had leaped up on the table. Reiko's umbrella in hand. Swinging it around as he gave his speech. Tatami spoke up: “Were you listening to that psycho again?” She asked obviously frustrated by his behavior. “If by psycho you mean prophet.” On his last word he knelt down in front of Tatami so they were face to face. “Hey isn't that Yanagi's?” Juzo asked pointing at the umbrella. Yo stood up straight. Strutting to Reiko while pointing her face with the tip. “My pal Reiko was kind enough to give it to me, isn't that right.” Reiko glared at him “isn't that right? You gave me your mother umbrella?” Yo Continued to poke Reiko with the umbrella, his smug aura going at full force. Reiko looked up from her breakfast and turned her head. Delivering him a haunting gaze she asked: “Excuse me, do you mind not stabbing me with my mother?” Upon hearing this Tatami began choking on her eggs. In a coughing fit. “ Don't lie Yo, if that represents her family then she wouldn't give it to you?”

“My my? You children seem to be having a heated debate!” A woman with long platinum hair, pale skin, and an orange coat walked into the room. She wore a polite smile on her face as she rubbed her hands together. “No need to stop for me though children, I'd love to see this be solved on its own.” Yo looked at the woman before setting the umbrella in Reiko's lap and hopping off the table taking his seat. “Oho you passed your first test then! I just hate students that whine and bicker. My name is Chitose Kizuki I'm going to be your principal at Shinsui” She looked over the group of students studying each one. “Yes Yes Yes this looks like a fine bunch! I’m excited for evaluations!”

“Um miss principal” Tatami raised her hand slowly. “ Not to be rude but aren't our evaluations supposed to be at the school?” Chitose began laughing almost as if she had been told a joke. “What a polite girl! But yes typically they are, but the stress of the whole thing is far too daunting, so in order to devise a change in pace I've decided to have evaluations held in the living quarters of the student. MR.MERA?” She called out. “MERA?” “Yes mam I'm on my way.” A tired voice replied before suddenly a scrawny man with puffy hair entered the room followed by Kan. “Alrighty then! Evaluations.” Mera began opening his briefcase and pulling out five files handing one out to each kid. Reiko looked down at her file to see it had her name written on it. As well as a paper clip with a picture of her from middle school attached.

“These are your middle school performance reports. Each have all your grades, all of your test scores, awards, achievements, and so on. Over the past month people have been looking over them to find certain characteristics that can help give options for a career to focus on that'll suit you best. This evaluation you're about to take will have Miss Chitose interviewing you for thirty minutes, then ill work with you to decide your high school path of study.” Chitose began clapping her hands. “Isn’t it exciting, now ill give you ten minutes to clean your rooms, and look over your files and we'll start with….” she paused for a second to scan over the students.

“Yo!” she cheered. “So get ready because if I don't like what I see, then you can just apply for one of the other schools. I'm sure all of your middle schools would be ecstatic to have all of you try again!” Upon her last word the tone in the room shifted to one of panic. Shinsui was supposed to be the easy school to get into, but now there’s apparently a chance they won't even get to enroll? “Mr. Kan do you mind if I make some tea, while I wait?”

Reiko sat in her room in anticipation. Listening in silence for the sound of her principal approaching. She spent a few minutes setting up an interview space featuring two chairs for her guests and one for herself. As well as moving her desk so all three would have a place to sit. Then she heard it: “YOU BITCH! WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY THAT?” a voice rang from down the hall. Then the sound of two sets of footsteps approaching her room. Reiko watched as the doorknob twisted. And Chitose stepped inside. “ How are you miss” she stopped suddenly as a large stereo collided with her head forcing her to fall over. “I WASN'T FINISHED WITH YOU!” Yo screamed.

Yo approached the doorway enraged. Looking down at curious he pointed menacingly at her. “You monsters just want to censor everything! What you did to hawks was inexcusable! But me? You don't understand! Those imbeciles your partners have on air do nothing but keep people at bay. But in his words, those who are right will rise like phoenixes and when we burn. All of you will turn to ash!” Chitose pulled herself up and pointed at Yo: “I don't know what makes you act this way, but you're no child worthy of being under my wing.” On her last word Yo collapsed to the floor grabbing his leg. His face in shock. “Wh-wh-what did you?” He barely managed to ask. “What do you mean what did I do” Chitose asked smugly I didn't even touch you!”

Chapter Text

Reiko watched as Yo cried out in pain. She hadn't seen anything happen to him, but he sat there cradling his leg. He removed his hands for a few seconds revealing several large bruises that had began to form. “WHAT DID YOU DO TO ME?” He screamed. Chitose knelt beside him examining his leg. “Oh you poor thing you must have sprained it!” Her tone shifting into a nurturing one. “Mera will you be a dear and get Kan for me please?” The scrawny man obeyed rushing down the hall. Reiko who had been frozen in shock the whole time, rushed and knelt down on Shindo's other side. “Reiko please assist me in taking him back to his bed. We'll have him rest for a bit” Chitose asked to which Reiko nodded. Sliding her head under Yo's arm she looked over to Chitose who proceeded to do the same only for Yo to grab a piece of the busted stereo and smash it upside her head. The woman staggered backward in pain. Holding her hand up to where she was hit. “I’m sorry Reiko,” she began, “But I don't think I'm capable of taking him.” Removing her hand she revealed a smear of blood covering her forehead.

Just as Reiko was able to stand Yo up, and begin to make their way down the hall. Kan appeared with Mera trailing close behind. “I’ve got him Yanagi! You just go back and take care of her!” He gestured at the injured Chitose who had placed her hand back over her forhead. Reiko watched as Kan carried Yo to his room as Mera followed behind.

Kneeling down next to Chitose, Reiko offered her a tissue that she just so happened to have in her pocket. Chitose gladly accepted placing the fluffy white rectangle on her wound. “Already earnings points I see?” Chitose teased mopping the blood off her forehead. “Now then, shall we begin your evaluation? We don’t need Mera until later.” Reiko paused “Aren’t you worried about a concussion?” She asked. Chitose chuckled, “Enough with the nice girl act, I'm not giving you any more points. KISS ASSES DON'T GET FAR IN LIFE.”

Both Reiko and Chitose sat in silence. The principal looking from wall to wall at all of Reiko's Yokai exhibition. “These are interesting, did you make them yourself?” Chitose asked. “Yes” Reiko replied also looking around. “This ones really pretty!” The principal pointed at the one of the ghost girl on her vanity. “Yes that ones the Yurei. It’s a vengeful spirit of someone who dies in anger or regret!” Reiko informed. “ Ah very interesting, that’s a scary thing to know!” Chitose replied. “And whose this? A childhood doll?” She asked picking up the small mummy at the base of the ghost statue. “I had one when I was younger. It was a small turquoise ballerina. She was so cute! I think her name was Sakura. Albeit being blue. We went everywhere together. But then one day a neighborhood dog showed up out of nowhere and tore her to shreds.” Reiko twitched anxiously as the woman examined the doll. “At first I hated that mutt. It was some mangy Rottweiler who dared to take my friend. But in the end I found something new. A cute boy that I'd eventually date and marry. We almost even started a family if it wasn't for…well lets not get into that” Chitose grew a somber look as she starred off into space. “The point is loosing her made me mature, and sometimes it takes loss to make us mature…right?” Chitose looked over to Reiko expectingly. “Tell me something Reiko why join this school and not Bāninguāto High?” Reiko was stunned, “What do you mean?” Reiko asked confused.

“You’re obviously very artistic! All of these are grade A proof of it!” She replied motioning to all of Reiko's yokai. “ These aren't an easy task and even the simplest one would get you into Bāninguātos ,so why join my school? A school for flexible business and marketing students.” Reiko was stunned.
“Because I” She started before Chitose interuppted. “Because you already lost your mom and don't want to not be there in case your dad dies too! You're afraid of letting your family go. But you wont admit it! So you’ve convinced yourself that your father is overbearing. So you're here to practice to earn a career that'll keep you close to him. But in the end we both know that PEOPLE DIE, YOUR DAD WILL TOO AND THERE'S NOTHING YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT REIKO!” The silver haired girl became furious. “THATS NOT TRUE! I WANT TO LIVE A SIMPLE LIFE TO SUPPORT MYSELF ABOVE ALL ELSE. I KNOW MY MOMS NOT COMING BACK!” Reiko caught ahold of herself and quickly calmed down. “All of this is a hobby, that’s all. I'll join this school so I can become successful. I'm obviously a skilled artist, but doesn't marketing need that sort of talent. There are hundredsof students pursuing careers in art. It's not bad to want to feel secure in a job.” Chitose looked at Reiko bored. “ You know your moms not coming back yet you depict her as a ghost, and keep a prized possession that was hers. That’s honestly too much looking back to be considered mature for my school. I can't deny you're grades are perfect. And marketing might suit you!” Chitose began.

She stood up from her seat and walked over to Reiko's desk. Kneeling down she picked up a trash bin and set it in front of her student. Then she placed two fingers into her coat and pulled out a matchbox and a cigarette. “Its a dirty habit Reiko never take it up. I'm sure you're smart enough to find a better way to deal with stress.” Chitose joked scratching a match and lighting her death stick. Reiko continued to watch the woman closely as she held the flame up to the matchbox setting it ablaze, the proceeded to drop it into the metal bin. As expected the contents of the bin were also ignited into a glowing mess of flame. “What are you doing?” Reiko asked her eyes fixated on the fire. Chitose giggled. “As I said, its important for you to move on. And with your parents distracting you, there’s no way for you to grow. So if you want to go to my school you have to prove to me you can overcome loss.” She made her way over to the vanity and picked up Reiko's mothers doll. Carrying it over to Reiko she inspected its details before handing it to it's owner. “Alright Miss Yanagi, you want to be my student?Then throw it in the fire.

Reiko stared at the doll in a mix of guilt and sorrow. “I have to burn, my mother's doll?”
“Well sweetie, you don't have too. You can always be on dads leash! One minute is what ill give you starting now!”
As Reiko's eyes went back and forth peering at the doll and then the fire voices appeared in her head.

“Reiko look, this is my old dolly! I want you to take care of it, do you think you can do that?” “Sweetheart, I’m sorry I won't be able to see you grow up, to do what you love.” “Reiko, I love you!” “Don't worry Reiko, its ok, daddy will always be here, I will always be here.” “Do you want to visit her today?” “These are pretty nice! You should enter them in a contest.” “And the ribbon for best in show: Gashadokuro by Miss Reiko Yanagi!” “That’s another award I'm so proud of you my daughter” “I miss you mom” “You made one of her?” “Why would you do this?” “ I just cant stop thinking about her” “You have to take care of yourself” “You were accepted into Bāninguāto high?” “That’s too far away, what if something happens to you?” “ Shinsui will have to do, its only twenty Minutes” ““You make these yourself what about this one” “Don’t tell anyone about this”

Reiko let out a scream in rage. “Ten seconds left” Reiko looked at the doll and squeezed it. “Nine eight seven” Reiko let out another scream and chucked the doll at the bin her eyes filled with tears, her fists clenched in ager as she watched it near its destination. “I did it! I got it!” she told herself her throat burning in pain and frustration. She watched the doll near the bin only to stop midway.” Chitose had managed to catch the doll. Holding it gently in her hand she gave Reiko a smile.” Congratulations Miss Yanagi you made it into Shinsui. MERA! COME IN HERE AND DECIDE A COURSE FOR MISS YANAGI!” She handed Reiko the doll. “ I just wanted to see if you would do it. The doll wasn't ever going to burn. You've impressed me. I hope to hear great things from you!” Reiko fell to her knees hugging the doll. Her heart beating like a drum quicker and quicker. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry mom, I’m sorry dad” she told herself as she watched the fire.

Mera later came into the room and put it out. “Whoa, she really did a number on you! You alright kid?” He asked his tired voice filled with concern. Reiko nodded her head. The two spent the next thirty minutes discussing options. But in reality Reiko didn’t care. She was still extremely shocked that in the end she actually was willing to burn her prized possession, her last key to her mom. “Alright Miss Yanagi, congratulations on becoming an official marketing student. Graphic design, color theory, commercial making, ect. It's all at your fingertips starting Monday. Good luck kid.” Mera congratulated her shaking her hand. After Mera had left the white haired girl decided to lie down on her bed. She was still shook up in obvious distress. Tears welled up in her eyes. Getting punched, watching Yo's accident. And now this? Reiko was reconsidering her situation more and more.

She was almost ready to spend the night crying when there was a knock on the door. Whipping her tears Reiko made her way over. It had been three Hours since the fire, so all the others must have finished by then. Reiko opened the door to find Tatami standing there. Except she seemed much more awkward than usual. “I guess all the examinations are that difficult.” Reiko thought to herself before greeting her guest. “Anything you need?” Reiko asked trying to feel friendly. “Um I just want to know if you passed or not” Reiko watched Tatami for a second. The latter was extremely shook and almost refused to make eye contact with the silver haired girl. “I did, how about you?” Reiko asked.

In an instant Tatami's face lit up, “YES I DID THAT MEANS THERE ARE FOUR OF US THAT PASSED!” She cheered lunging herself to embrace Reiko in a meaningful hug. “Oh this is so exciting! Wait we have to celebrate!” The blonde hair girl looked over to the clock on the nightstand that read 5:27. “Oh that’s a perfect time! Reiko be ready by six. We're gonna go eat to celebrate!” As the excited short girl rushed out the door to get herself ready Reiko stood there watching. “A hug?” She thought to herself. This day really had been weird.

Reiko listened as the phone rang. The shrill noise echoed in her ear until someone answered. “Urashima Library co how may I help you?” Her fathers voice asked.
“Dad!”
“REIKO HOW WAS THE EVALUATION”
“Dad I love you!”
“Oh no did you not make it? Well I’m sure you can work here with me.”
“No dad I did make it!”
“Baby that’s great! Why do you sound so upset? You should be celebrating!”
“I'm fine. I’m going with friends soon.”
“Oh that’s great, then I won’t keep you. Have fun and congratulations again!”
“WAIT DAD!”
She paused for a moment wondering what she should do. If she should tell him or not. What would he say, how would he even react?
“What is it?”
“I um, well I love you!”
“I love you too sweetheart, you have fun. We'll talk later ok? Bye!”
“Bye dad!”

After quick change of clothes Reiko made her way to the entryway of the house. There she was met with Juzo smiling brightly. He was wearing exactly the same outfit he had on earlier. And his hair was the same. But there was something different about him. Next to him was Tatami who had changed into a hot pink shirt and overalls. She was holding onto Juzo's shoulders, and bouncing excitedly up and down. On his other side was Shouji who was smiling and giving Juzo a thumbs up. He had changed into a pair of athletic pants and a yellow jacket.

Shouji looked over to Reiko. As she approached he held out his hand to give her a High five to which she gladly returned. “What’s the commotion?” Reiko asked watching as Tatami ceased bouncing and embraced Juzo in a tight squeeze. “Juzo became the principals heir to her old business.”

“Wait what?” Reiko asked looking up to Shouji who at this point was placing a face mask over his mouth. “The principal use to run a publishing company. It mainly dealt in books, but after a while she decided to expand. The company began producing films, video games, and other similar things. But the biggest one she was involved in was talk radio. Using her own money she developed a huge radio station that could be heard throughout the world. Each hour was a new show. Each varied in hosts and genres. It was a pretty big hit. But one day something happened that made her give up on the station, and her company all together I guess.” Shouji informed. “That must be why she wants you to take over!” Tatami cheered patting Juzo on the back. “Anyway standing around isn't any way to celebrate, lets go!”

As they walked to the restaurant Shouji and Juzo had walked ahead of the girls giving Reiko the perfect opportunity to talk to Tatami. “Hey while were together do you mind me asking if anything strange happened during your examination?” She asked in a low voice so the others wouldn't hear. Tatami's smile immediately dissolved. “You too?” she asked side eyeing Reiko. “Yeah. I didn't know if that’s a normal thing.” Tatami looked down at the street. “ She started to yell at me about how I never go through with things, and how I give up too easily. And that it's all because of my friends. They hold me back and it's causing me to suffer.” Reiko watched Tatami face go pale. “ Then said I had one minute to call one of them and say all this terrible stuff about how toxic they were. That they're parasites dragging me down. And if I didn't she'd send me home. I was so stressed that I wanted to cry, I threw the phone aside telling her no!” Her words sped up as the emotions reached a peak. “But then she started clapping and telling me it's good to be loyal to those you’re close to. And that I passed.” Tatami looked ahead at the boys Juzo smiling as usual. “I guess something similar happened to Shouji, but Juzo acts like nothing happened. And I haven't even seen Yo, I heard he hurt himself trying to attack the principal. And that a doctor said he must have bumped his leg on something. What about you? Did she do anything to you?”
Reiko ended up telling Tatami all about what had happened. “That’s horrible, can she even do that?” Tatami asked her eyes looking as if they were about to pop out of her head at any second. “I’m not sure, but she didn't physically hurt anyone or anything. So I don't think its wise to make that much of a fuss at the moment.” Tatami looked at her concerned. “Just think about it, out of the hundreds of students she examined there hasn't been a scandal yet. The whole thing was just a logical ruse. So for now we should stay quiet, and celebrate. If anything else happens then we'll tell ok?” Reiko asked looking over at Tatami. The shorter girl having her hand on her chin. ““I guess you're right, but I'm worried about Juzo. He's working directly under her. I don't want her hurting him or anything.” Reiko gasped. She made an excellent point. Could someone survive 5 hours of that six days a week? “Then we'll keep an eye on him. Shouji too. If anything goes wrong even slightly. Then we'll take action.

The group had a pretty lovely rest of the evening. They ate a pretty nice meal and had good conversation. For the first time in a while Reiko was genuinely happy to spend time with other people. The whole thing almost made her forget what had happened just a few hours before. She ended up telling Shouji about keeping an eye on Juzo, and what Chitose had done to her and Tatami. Only for him to express his concern for his friend as well. And when Reiko asked what had happened during his examination, Shouji just stroked his mask in silence, signaling that he wasn't feeling up to talking about it.

Upon arriving back to the house they were met with a strange sight. Kan’s truck was nowhere in site. Juzo being the one to point it out also theorized an explanation. “Maybe Yo got worse and they drove him to the hospital. Reiko moved ahead of the bunch to open the door to check and see. Only once she opened it she was met with a large silhouette and an eerie groan. “Whose there?” Reiko asked. Only for it to groan again louder. Its voice filled with anger and agony. Reiko glares at the silhouette attempted to approach her before switching the lights on to see Yo Shindo standing in front of her. He wasn't wearing a shirt, so she could clearly see that covering his arms, legs, and torso were the deep maroon bruises. His mouth contorted into macabre open frown, as saliva dripped down his chin. As he cried out once more Reiko slapped her hands over her mouth as one of the bruises erupted into a thick crimson mess. And then another. And another each mark burst at random with no particular paturn. Each with a small popping sound. Blood squirted in all directions like a fountain from hell forming a small slimy puddle at his feet. Yo continued to wail in agony. The holes glowing red after the pus filled blood freed itself from his flesh. It lasted a good ten minutes. As Reiko stood an watched the hellish imagery before her. Until Yo was nothing but a scarlet mess of blood and holes wailing in rage before eerily going silent. His eyes wide and bloodshot until he fell over unconscious. In a puddle of himself.

Reiko watched as the bodies breathing slowed into a sudden stop. She could hear Tatami begin to wail behind her in a fit of panic. Looking down at her shirt she noticed the mess had splattered several stains on the grey fabric as if she had spilled wine. The thick stink of iron invading her nostrils. She wanted to puke yet it felt like she couldn't.

Later that night Reiko lay in bed tossing and turning. After the incident with Yo, Kan and a Doctor showed up. The elderly man examined the body and asked everyone what they knew. Yo was diagnosed post mortem with a rare disease and the doctor ended up taking the body with him. According to Kan after the group had left for dinner the spots had began to worsen. Chitose who was still there at the time had told Vlad to drive to get the doctor. But had left herself to get ice. In the end Shouji was the one to clean up all the blood, while Juzo comforted Tatami. Not being able to take the smell Reiko took a shower. Afterward everyone decided it was best to turn in for the night. And maybe they'd be able to talk the next day. But she couldn't sleep. The image of Yo screaming invaded her thoughts. Anything that came to her mind, Images of her dad, of the kettle, of herself. Were all violated by the bruises oozing blood and pus. Reiko sat up from her bed. All her Yokai starred at her mischievously. She removed her blanket. Stepping on the cold floor a jolt of pain filled her feet that caused her to quickly retract them. Looking down nothing was there. “My imagination?” Reiko questioned. Walking down the hall in her t shirt and shorts her breathing steady. She slowly made her way down the hall and stopped in front of Yo's door. Taking a deep breath she took hold of the door knob, and with a small twist it cracked open.

His room was surprisingly bright. The window was right next to a light pole so the blue light shaped itself alone the open areas of his room and into the hall. Shadows scattered themselves behind the furniture where the light couldn't reach. Reiko looked at the different décor and knickknacks Yo decided to spread all over his dorm. They were all mostly the same. Merchandise depicting a young man in his late twenties in a brown pilot jacket sitting or standing at a microphone. The words “Firebird” over his head, and across his chest. Looking at his bed Reiko noticed a small mp3 player set on a speaker on his nightstand. A dull hollow voice barely escaping it. Reiko shifted her way over to the device and raised the volume a few notches. This made the voice come out much more clear, but still not loud enough for Tatami two doors down to hear.

The voice was a young man. A bit gruff as if he’d been smoking. But still approachable except for the fact that he sounded like he was screaming at the top of his lungs. “FORCED INTO SUBMISSION BY A BUNCH OF NERDS WITH POCKET PROTECTORS, INTO DOING THE SAME BULLSHIT FOR THE REST OF OUR LIVES? GUIDED LIKE SHEEP INTO A POSITION IN LIFE WERE SUPPOSED SO SAY WE ENJOY.BUT THAT’S JUST BRAINWASHING. THE TRUTH IS THOSE UPSTAIRS ARE AFRAID! THEY'RE AFRAID OF WAR, CRIME, MURDER. TRUE NOBODY WANTS ANY OF THAT BUT THERES A CLEAR REASON YOU DON'T HEAR ABOUT IT! BECAUSE IF YOU DON'T ACCEPT YOUR PRECIOUS LIFE THEY'VE GIVEN YOU, THEY DRAG YOU OFF. THEY OPEN YOUR HEAD AND PLAY WITH YOUR BRAINS! SO THEY CAN SEE HOW IT WORKS. SO THEY CAN PLAY WITH THE BRAINS OF OUR CHILDREN TO CREATE A-WAIT….NO…..WHAT ARE YOU……LET GO OF ME! YOU'RE JUST AFRAID OF THE TRUTH! DON'T FORGET MY WORDS! THE DAMN LIZARDS ARE THE ENEMY! At that moment the recording had cut off. There was a mere second of silence before it restarted. Reiko listened closely this time and noticed this was the exact thing Yo went on about at breakfast. She listened for a bit longer before hearing a crash further down the hall outside the room. Reiko bolted up straight and crept to the doorway. She peeked out to see nothing there. Her door was still open, and Tatami's shut with no light underneath. Looking the other way Shouji's had been closed too, but Juzo's was cracked open. Looking closer Reiko could see shadows shifting from inside.

Exiting Yo's room and closing the door behind her, she crept down the hall past the dining room. She continued to slowly creep past Shouji's room and stopped in front of Juzo's. Taking a deep breath she knelt down in front of the door and peeked inside. It was much darker than Yo’s since he had his curtains shut. So it took a while for her eyes to dilate. But when they did Reiko wished they hadn't. Because sitting there watching Juzo sleep, was Chitose. A huge smile on her face as she sat on the bed’s top right corner. She wore her usual outfit only this time without the coat. On her stomach was Juzo's head. She stroked his hair gleefully before pulling the rest of him higher so his head sat on her chest. He was still sleeping. Still oblivious to his current position as she held him tight in an embrace. “That’s right my baby, mother will take better care of you this time” She cooed as she rocked his unconscious body back and forth. Reiko watched on in confusion. “Baby, my baby. Baby, my baby” Chitose repeated as she rocked him back and forth. “We need to go” a voice said from behind the door out of Reiko's sight. Chitose's face changed to a look of annoyance. “I just wanted more time with my baby!” She tightened her embrace. The figure behind the door approached her, their back still facing Reiko. “Now!” Their voice boomed as they slammed their foot down causing both Chitose and Reiko to jump. Reiko fell back in shock causing her to accidentally make the mistake of having her hand slap the hard tile floor on impact. The sound of which echoed through the hall. Everything went quiet. Reiko's heart picked up pace. Chitose looking in her direction. The figure turned around causing Reiko's heart to abruptly stop. The figures face was that of an Oni!

Chapter Text

6 Months Later

“S-s-so as you can s-s-see the image quality is our best! Perfect for landscaping, birdwatching, and of course s-s-security!” Tadan Dadan informed pulling a handkerchief out of his pocket. Whipping his forehead he watched as Reiko picked up a small tablet showing a birds eye tour of the school. “That image is actually live, and being s-s-shot on a drone as we s-s-speak.” He stuttered poking the touch screen to show the manual control options.

“What about your more discrete cameras? Ones that people wont be able to see so easily.” Reiko asked setting down the tablet and crossing her arms. “I feel something like a nanny cam would fit my office better.”

“Oh wow you're really into this!” Tadan gawked stroking his chin as he took a second to think. “Oh right, I’ve got just the thing!” He exclaimed trudging over to a metal cage. Panting heavily he fumbled with the lock until it clicked open to reveal several boxes. Shuffling through them till he found what he needed. A cerulean rectangle that he brought over to Reiko, removing the lid in the process. Inside was a sheet of dense foam with six holes scattered throughout. Each of which had its own little clear spear inside. “These are micro s-s-surveillance s-s-systems. They're impossible to s-s-see if placed right, and all of the images they take are immediately s-s-sent to their own personal cloud.”

“And who can access this cloud?” Reiko asked taking the box from him and surveying the cameras. They were no bigger than gumballs. Small and black, but with each center point looked almost clear. Reiko figured that must have been where the lenses were located.

“Well each camera has a different area, and they’re all displayed on the net. But you need a password for access. S-s-so you will be able to s-s-see them, as well as me, and my teacher. Just for s-s-security reasons.” he looked over to Reiko who was watching him cautiously. “But we hardly do s-s-since this is just for your demonstration right?” Reiko nodded in agreement. Tadan’s brow began to sweat again, which he violently whipped with his handkerchief. “Anyway if your interested in those we can discuss” He paused to lean in closer to her and whispered “payment!”

Reiko rolled her eyes digging her hand into her navy suit jacket pulling out a small but thick envelope that she handed to him. “I believe this is what we agreed on!” She replied watching him annoyed as he opened it gently to peer inside. Holding his breath and nodding, he handed her the box. “Much obliged!” Reiko thanked him as she turned and exited the room. She watched up and down the hall in caution, not wanting to bring any unwanted attention to herself. “What a weird reaction to trading cards.” Reiko sighed making her way to her next stop as she slid the box into her school bag. She made it a few feet before the P.A. system rang.

“Remember students, the main building will be closed Friday evening at six o’ clock till Monday morning when the school opens. So don't do something foolish like leaving your meal pass in the building. I’m sure Mr. Sero can tell you all about the troubles of doing such a thing, and that I’m not particularly excited to drive up here and help you find it!” Mera announced sounding particularly more tired than usual.

The school felt sullen. Between the mass of anxious kids worried about their monthly progress meetings with their assigned supervisors. And the all around gloomy October weather. Or even possibly the sudden after school assembly Chitose had called forth that afternoon. The tone of the location was certainly one of mourning. Reiko made her way to the auditorium only to be stopped by someone grabbing hold of her shoulder. Reiko turned to see Shouji wearing his usual face mask, and had his hair slicked back.

“I was able to find some more things out today about you know who!” He informed. “Some details are still pretty blurred, but things are also starting to make a lot more sense.” He handed Reiko a large envelope with the words “Architecture Department” stamped on it. “The papers are hidden under the blueprints of your project.” Reiko took the envelope and held it tight.

“Thanks Shouji you're the best!” Reiko exclaimed giving him a thumbs up. “I was able to get the cameras, I'll try to find a way to get one on Juzo’s jacket tonight! Speaking of him, see any new marks?” Reiko asked.

“He's got a few new bruises, but he isn’t sure where he got them. He doesn't say much about anything weird happening during his lessons.” Shouji answered “It doesn't make any sense.”

“What’s that?” A familiar voice asked from behind him. Turning around Shouji was met by Chitose herself. “What doesn't make any sense?” The platinum haired principal asked with a grin.

“Oh I was just telling Reiko here that it doesn't really make sense for an assembly, on this day at this time!.” Shouji replied. His quick save coming off as natural, while remaining friendly. Reiko had noted it as one of his specialties.

“Oh yes,” Chitose said turning her eyes to the side in annoyance, but keeping her smile. “It was very last minute especially considering all of your projects coming up on Friday. But this presentation just might be important for a few of the students. But nothing you two should worry about. In fact how about the two of you come with me for tea in my office. I have a TV displaying it if you absolutely need to watch.” Chitose gestured for them to follow her.

The trio made their way to the principals office. As they were heading there they made an attempt at conversation. “So Mr. Shouji what kind of project are you working on exactly?” Chitose asked looking over at the six foot tank.

“Oh I'm doing architectural design, so we're having to come up with blueprints for different types of buildings and offices for the different students who commission us as part of their projects. We're required a minimum of ten this round. So I'm on my twenty seventh you know, just to go beyond. Professor Ishiyama tells me I'm doing a wonderful job.” Shouji casually replied showing off his amazing performance in his area of expertise.

“Oh how marvelous, I might just ask you to design our extensions on our food service industry building for the renovation next spring!” Chitose cheered as they made it to her office. “I invited Mr. Honenuki to join us later on.” She stated opening the door for them to enter. Reiko looked around the office. She had been there before but there was always something new to look at with each visit. At the far wall was a huge oak desk with metal legs, placed in front of a pleather chair. The middle of the room was decorated with a glass coffee table surrounded by five green cushioned stools. On the opposite wall was a flat screen TV showing an image of the school's auditorium, with students filling in the seats. Along the walls were posters each being roughly 24’’×36’’ in size and adorned with pictures of various images from Chitose's old company: Shoowaysha Publishing. Some of the more noticeable ones being: A poster for “The Shinmanga Variety Hour: radio talk show!”, Another one portraying her modeling in a pink and blue bikini for The Detnerat Companies’ summer clothing line. One for the film “Whale Winter Wipeout.” Starring Emi Fukukado. And the weirdest one being a Shoowaysha Publishing poster with the word READ spelled in large red letters, and the image of Chitose holding a copy of the book: “An expecting mothers best friend!” with her being extremely pregnant in the photo.

“Alright sit yourselves down while I begin preparing the tea!” She sung removing her bright orange coat that she hung off the back of her desk chair. Reiko and Shouji sat down besides one another as they watched her prep the tea maker. As it started to boil the water Chitose searched several cabinets underneath it for something. “I'm sorry you two but I'm all out of sugar, I'm going to head to the teacher's lounge for some, and hope the two of you decide not to rob me!” She joked. “I'll be right back!” she called leaving her office, shutting the door behind her.

“Alright now’s our chance!” Reiko cheered opening her bag and pulling out the box of cameras. “I’ve got five of these so lets get going!” She took out one of the cameras. “I read in the manual these are solar powered, so as long as she goes outside or leaves the curtains open for at least thirty minutes every day we should have a clear view of her whenever we need one.” Shifting over to Chitose's desk Reiko snuck around it kneeling next to the coat. Knowing Chitose never wore the hood and thus wouldn’t need to tighten it. Reiko shoved the minuscule sphere into the hole containing the hood adjustment laces.

Pressing hard on the center a few barbs released from the contraption. Locking the camera in place with a flash of blue light and then going blank. “Ok that should do it!” Reiko sprinted back to her seat plopping down onto it. “Security cameras, I got them from the security technology department for a few counterfeit trading cards! Now how I got those on the other hand….well lets not go into that.” she blushed. “So then, before she comes back. What did you get me?” Reiko asked opening her folder.

“As you know Chitose was the Executive director of Shoowaysha Publishing. Until a scandal with it’s founder and CEO whose name has been censored from all documents. I also couldn't find anything about what the scandal was over, but Chitose ended up taking over the company and expanding its assets. After taking the company up to the hundred millions in under a month, she ended up getting married soon after. She then went on and started KHMHA radio with the help of another unnamed woman. This one has a face thought.” Shouji pulled out a picture of a woman looking to be in her thirties with her black hair slicked into a bun, and a pair of lavender shaded sunglasses blocked her eyes. With a closer look Reiko noticed she had a mole underneath her left eye. “The two’s partnership brought the station worldwide,” Shouji continued “Until one day one of the station’s hosts: ‘Firebird’ threw a sudden tantrum…” Shouji paused closing his eyes. “A tantrum that accidentally caused her to loose the baby she was seven months pregnant with.” Reiko gasped looking over at the READ poster at Chitose's pregnant stomach.

“Alright then I've got sugar and cream if you want them!” Chitose announced swinging the office door open with her foot, and walking back inside the room. “Why so glum?” She asked looking at her two guests.

Both Reiko and Shouji began stuttering until Reiko spoke up: “We were just waiting to see this guest speak!” She informed. Chitose looked over at the teens and then the TV before nodding in understanding. Strutting over to the tea and preparing three cups, and placing them on a tray. She walked over to the coffee table and set two cups on coasters in front of both students, and one for herself.

“Alright then, Reiko how about giving me a sneak peek at your designs, my young marketing department master!” She winked at the silver haired girl.

Reaching into her bag Reiko pulled out several folders “The project is for us to make eight visual advertisements of anonymously requested products, write out eight commercials, and finally use other departments assets to design a work space for myself and twenty employees that can be ran efficiently.” Both Shouji and Chitose nodded at her in approval. “So I had Shouji design the space, used hardware and interior design students to find tools and decorations. And had the security department lend me these cameras for a visual display.” Reiko informed holding up the box.

“Oho? And why would you need those? As if anything bad would happen in a marketing company would it?” Chitose questioned.

“For simple security reasons, you can never be too safe! It's always important to have records and such for insurance purposes!” Reiko answered causing Chitose to nod in approval. “So now some of my ads!” Reiko set down a logo for boxed wine in front of the principal. After thirty minutes Reiko had finished explaining her visual ads. “So now for the commercial ads.”

“That’s not necessary!” Chitose interrupted. Setting her hand on Reiko's wrist. “I am actually much more interested in seeing your design. With what I hear about Shouji's work I’d say it's something.” She stopped when hearing a knock on the door. “Shouji, do you mind getting that?” She asked removing her hand from Reiko's wrist and adjusting herself. Shouji opened the door to reveal Juzo standing there. “Oh Honenuki!” Chitose cheered skipping over to him. “We’ve decided to watch the presentation with Yanagi and Shouji! And then we'll have a special guest with us!”

Juzo smiled at her: “What kind of guest?” He asked walking over to his seat and sitting.

“Oh you'll see very soon!”

“Is it comedian Emi Fukukado?”

“Now child, even I don't have that kind of power!”

Juzo laughed at her joke before turning to Reiko. “How’s the project going?” He asked. Reiko gave him a smile and a wink. To which he replied with a thumbs up. Juzo then turned to Shouji giving him a toothy grin. “So when are my plans going to be done?” He joked poking Shouji's leg repeatedly. “Shoowaysha publishing really needs that indoor water park!” Reiko starred at Juzo intensely. For the past six months he's been under Chitose's wing he's always remained his clever yet goofy self. Always laughing and smiling. The only signs of anything bad happening is the occasional bruising

“Pay attention now kids! He's on!” Chitose announced placing her hand on Reiko's shoulder. Reiko watched the screen as the audience went quiet and a man with a teal green suit showed up on stage. Following him was a woman in her late twenties wearing a purple suit jacket and dress skirt. Her eyes noticeably blank as her pure white hair fell to her neck. Her eyes appeared to be a pale shade of grey when the camera zoomed in on them. The man on the other hand was extremely tall and crooked. His skin tanned and he was wearing what appeared to be a very obvious toupee. Under were a pair of spectacles, and a face mask like Shouji's. But despite that you were able to tell he wore a wide smile as his cheeks contorted themselves unnaturally.

“Hello every body my name is Dr. Vince DDS, I am extremely grateful for your principal for allowing me to be here with you today!” He spoke with a friendly voice with an obvious lisp. “This is my assistant, for reasons you will soon find out I will not be calling her by her name! But isn't she a doll?” he asked motioning her over setting one hand on her shoulder and pinching her cheek with another. Reiko watched closely, before feeling a sudden pain in her leg. She looked down to see her foot had been splashed with a stinging green liquid. Looking up she had also noticed a shattered cup, and Shouji hugging himself trembling.

“What’s wrong?” Reiko asked placing her hand on his muscular arm. Juzo by now had also noticed Shouji's state and looked at him with concern.

“Th-that man.” He began, his voice shaking uncontrollably, “That man, H-he killed m-my parents!” He finally let out covering his eyes and shaking violently.

“Wait, how’s that possible, if he killed someone then he should be in jail!” Juzo interrupted in an attempt to calm Shouji down.

“There’s no mistaking it! That’s him!” Shouji panicked tearing his mask off to reveal the slashes in his face. “HE DID THIS!” On his last words Shouji stood up and headed to the door completely throwing aside his calm persona. Reiko and Juzo both stood up to follow him only to stop when he held out his hand. “Please excuse me a moment, I need to think. ALONE!” Juzo grabbed on to Reiko and pulled her back, with a nod to Shouji as the latter exited the office.

Chitose stood up brushing herself off. “Oh, poor dear. I'm sure the stress of this week has gotten to him! I’m going to see if I can help. You two stay and watch.” She ordered pointing them to their seats.

Reiko sat and watched fidgeting the whole time. “A killer, she invited a killer?”

“You see Miss Assistant wanted to be a zookeeper when she was little, isn't that sweet? So her entire middle school and high school years she diligently studied biology, zoology, marine biology, and many more. But when it came down to it her high school examination. It said she'd be better off as a Low Voltage Technician. But Miss Assistant didn't listen. She spent all of high school failing. And her dream job, as well as a chance at security were both stripped from her by this little mistake. And now she’s nothing but an assistant who has no name, and can't even make decent coffee. But that’s not all you see? Assistant!” He began taking his hands off of her. “I would like to visit the zoo and really want to experience the monkeys right this second. Do me a favor and screech like a monkey please!” There was a pause before she actually began to screech loudly like a monkey. The crowd as well as Reiko and Juzo watched in discomfort as this woman began to scream at the top of her lungs. He face was one that only could be described as distressfully calm. “Now jump up and down scratching yourself!” Assistant followed his order jumping slightly over and over again. “Excellent work my assistant you may stop now!” Dr. Vince clapped rhythmically as the blushing assistant re adjusted her clothes.

“See Miss assistant has no say in what she can and can’t do because she did not follow instructions and now works a job that doesn't make her happy, but is all she has. And the fear of her loosing that scares her enough that she’ll do anything no matter how degrading. Nobody wants to be like Miss Assistant. So here where my opportunity for all of you comes in. Anyone whose grades are any more than five points from a perfect score should consider quitting Shinsui, and finding a new career before ending up with my little monkey assistant here! My program: The Moonfish is part of a multi million dollar deal that allows doctors and therapists to study the thought process of young people like you when it comes to testing products and medications in a closed and controlled environment.” A power point presentation appeared behind him. “Now here’s what we want of you:”

“Denterax, Shoowaysha Publishing, Feel Good Inc., just a few examples of companies that have come together for The Moonfish. As some of you may have learned in class that products of all sorts go through a lot of things between being produced and before they go on shelves. After the product is made it needs to be tested in order to tell if it’s the best possible thing it could be. But with our societies desire to advance in knowledge, we've run low on people able to test them and give an honest opinion. So those running behind in life are very much encouraged to seek out this opportunity. We'll keep you at our Moonfish facility for five year intervals at a time. That way we can monitor you as-”

“WOAH WOAH WOAH MY DUDE, YOU'RE LIKE IMPLYING WE STAY IN SOME WEIRD PLACE FOR FIVE YEARS? LIKE NO THANKS BROSTEPH!” A female voice called from the audience.

“That’s an excellent point young lady!” Dr. Vince replied excitedly. “But you have to know these are large corporations funding we're talking about. You'll each have your own rooms containing a bathroom, large closets, television, ironing and washing essentials, as well as three meals a day with allergies and diets in mind. As well as extracurricular activities such as a library, indoor pool, weight room, and much more! Not to mention you'll each be heavily compensated for your time and effort.” Just then the TV turned off. Reiko looked aside to see Juzo holding the remote.

“You think people will actually fall for that sort of thing?” Juzo asked.

“I don’t know, maybe one or two.” Reiko replied.

“It sounds dumb, I hope Tatami doesn’t fall for it!”

“Her grades are lacking, but I don’t think she’ll just give up.”

“The second I'm running Shoowaysha I'm severing from the project, I'm not sure what Miss Principal is thinking. Anyway I gotta take a leak!” Juzo informed standing to his feet and making his way through the office.

“Hold on a second!” Reiko stopped him walking over and placing her hand on his shoulder. “I’m probably going to head home soon, so make sure your ties right!” She joked with him straightening it up for him. “Good luck tonight!”

“Thanks!” Juzo replied giving her a friendly hug. “See you at dinner.” He spun around and walked out the office. Reiko waited in anticipation, before going over to her bag and pulling out three of the cameras. Checking around the room she placed one on the TV, another on the Denterax poster, and one at the base of Chitose’s keyboard facing the screen.

“That should do it!” Reiko told herself. Making her way to the door she grabbed her bag, and the envelop containing her blueprints and research on Chitose. She reached for the handle of the door only for it to swing open to reveal Chitose and Miss Assistant.

“Going somewhere Miss Yanagi?” Chitose asked her face shifting to one of concern. Miss Assistant kept her blank stare but somehow resonated a look of curiosity. “Oh, I’m silly you probably need to head home and work on your project!” She replied before growing a smile. “Actually come to think of it you said you were finished earlier, how about letting me and my friend take a look at it?” She asked placing her hand on the envelop.

Reiko’s heart skipped a beat. Both women weren’t what you would call intimidating, but at this second both were looking at her as if she took one wrong step they’d rip her apart. Reiko giggled awkwardly: “Now now miss Principal, I'd rather not spoil it this early. You’ll just have to wait.”

Chitose’s eyes widened before she let out a crazed laugh: “My my you really are a pro huh?” She replied covering her mouth. “Very well, but I should warn you it's about to rain outside, how about leaving it in my office tonight, if you’re that confident in it?” She vexed not removing her hand. “Surly its not professional to get your work wet now is it? Just leave it here for the night dear! I promise I wont peak!” She set her hand on Reiko’s wrist. “Promise!”

“I was just getting information on a higher up! Its always good to get information on a client right? I just so happened to have Shoowaysha’s with me today, I have info on all of the companies!” Reiko told herself in a state of panic. Reiko had been doing this for an hour now. Beating herself up over handing Chitose the file with all the information in it, knowing that if she found all of it, Reiko would look extremely suspicious. Reiko’s head was spinning as she made it to the house. “Hi Tatami, I’ve got work to do see you in two hours for dinner.” She called to the twin tailed hair girl watching TV on the sofa. Reiko made her way to the hall and walked down the boys side throwing open Shouji’s door to find nobody there. “Not home yet?” She asked herself before strolling over to her own room, throwing her bag onto the bed and sitting down in her chair at the computer. She logged in the link that Tadan had given her and inserted her password. The screen changed to a dark teal and read: Would you like to access the image of the cameras(6). Reiko clicked “yes”. Causing her screen to shift into an image of 6 screens. There was no sound but the figures were clear. It worked, she had all eyes on Chitose.

Camera 1: Showed an image of the coffee table: Sitting there was Assistant, Juzo, and Chitose.
Camera 2: Chitose’s computer
Camera 3: Camera 1 but from a different angle
Camera 4: The inside of Reiko’s bag
Camera 5: An image that switched between Chitose and Assistant, from Juzo’s point of view.
Camera 6: Camera 2 but further back and a bit to the side.

Reiko watched Camera 1 for a bit as the three talked, occasionally switching to Camera 5 to see if Juzo had noticed anything personal such as subtle facial messages of sorts. They were like this for twenty minutes until Juzo looked over to the door of the office. Assistant followed his gaze as it swung open to reveal Dr. Vince who was carrying a bag. Walking over to Juzo and saying something to him with a glimmer in his eyes. Due to the lack of sound as well as the mask covering the doctor's mouth, Reiko wasn't able to make out a single word that had been said. The doctor reached into his bag and pulling out a dental mirror and one of those hooks that dentists use. Switching to Camera 3 Reiko watched the doctor observe Juzo's mouth for a whole five minutes before setting his tools back into the case.

With that finished the two women stood up. Chitose signaled Juzo to do so as well. They made their way over to Chitose's desk where she grabbed her orange coat which excited Reiko who was happy she had another point of view become available. Chitose reached inside her desk drawer pulling out a set of keys, and making her way over to a wardrobe. With surprising ease she gently pushed it to the side with the tips of her fingers. Striking a Charlie's Angels pose she ruffled Juzo's hair before unlocking the door. This one not being so easy to open as the previous one. Switching to camera five Reiko watched as both Chitose and Vince had to push on it to get it open. Inside was completely black. The four gazed into the darkened abyss for a second before Chitose took out her lighter. After a few tries the tip finally ignited. She motioned for Juzo to stay put as she hurried down the hall before the shadows engulfed her body entirely from site. Roughly five minutes had past before the corridor had filled with light. It's floor being a dark navy, with dark grey walls. Standing roughly twenty feet away was Chitose holding out her hand. Juzo looked to the side revealing to Reiko that Vince had grabbed his shoulder and began leading him down the corridor.

The hall seemed to have gone on forever. No stairs, no doors, nothing on the walls. Just a long dark winding hall. Juzo's soft footsteps only caused the camera on his neck to bounce slightly in a rhythmic motion. They continued to walk, seemingly in silence. The whole thing felt hypnotic, as if Reiko watched it long enough she'd fall asleep. Reiko leaned back in her seat as she watched mindlessly before pulling out her phone.

Looking through her contacts she scrolled to: “Shouji" Pressing the call button she set the phone to her ear. It rang for a second before the automatic voice message system told her he wasn't available at the moment. With a sigh Reiko set the phone down on her desk before removing her shoes, tie, and suit coat. Taking a peek at the screen to make sure nothing had happened, she made her way over to the bed. Unbuttoning the top two buttons of her blouse she laid down. Starring at the ceiling she lay in silence. The brittle October air caressing her face she breathed calmly.

“Reiko food!” Tatami called from outside her door, ripping Reiko out of her slumber. Darting upwards in her bed Reiko gazed at her alarm clock, she'd been asleep for thirty minutes! She stumbled out of bed and crawled to her computer to check the footage.

But the screen was completely black, aside from the bottom right corner, where little white letters spelled out: “Camera 5 out of order.” Figuring the camera died Reiko went to the menu to find all the others working just fine with no battery problems. Reiko clicked on camera 6, and the image popped up. What she saw caused Reiko to cry out panic and sorrow. Her fingers dug into her skull as her eyes bulged and her teeth clenched. It was Juzo, sitting in a chair with his arms and legs bound to it by straps that cut into his smooth flesh. His clothes were tattered. Stained with blood and sweat. A huge burn had formed on the side of his neck that steamed and blistered. All nothing compared to his face. Large bruises decorated above his left eye and on his cheek, his nose was shattered in a crooked mess. And his mouth it wasn't even there. All that was in place were teeth and gums. Where were his lips? He was missing his lips!

Assistant sat at a counter fiddling with something as Dr. Vince stood before him, his mask shredded to reveal his disgusting pale grin. In his right hand was a cattle prod. Dr. Vince shouted something at Juzo before opening his mouth to scream. At least that’s what Reiko thought he was doing until three giant crooked blades shot out of his mouth one going into Juzo's leg, another in his arm, and the third in his stomach. Reiko screamed in terror as she watched this happen falling backwards to the ground in a fetal position. All she could do was cry and shake. How did this happen? For the past six months she had tried to protect him. She knew Chitose was a psycho but nothing like this crossed her mind as she was capable of! Such a damn stupid mistake. The image of the blades piercing Juzo went through her head on repeat. His lipless bruised face twitching as they made impact. Reiko couldn't stop shaking, the salty tears covered her lips and stung her throat. Having to see what they did next, she reluctantly managed to sit up. What was the point in this? Were they all just sickos? Were Chitose and Assistant just slaves to this madman’s disgusting game? She looked at the screen to see Chitose's point of view as she had finished what looked like attacking Dr. Vince to no avail. Assistant stood next to the body. Her gloved hand holding his head steady as she held an unknown device up to his head. As she ran over to embrace Juzo Chitose stumbled on a small hole in the floor she grabbed onto him, squeezing his chest. And despite not being able to hear or see her face. Reiko recognized that Chitose was bawling her eyes out. And before she knew it Reiko was as well.

“Was he…DEAD?”

Reiko kept her watery eyes on the screen, her bold lips quivering from under her hand. The pain in her throat was unbearable, only to be mixed with her being unable to breath from the overwhelming stress and emotions. The camera at this point was covered by his blue uniform jacket from Chitose's tight embrace of sorrow. Then there was a spark. And another. Reiko whipped her eyes as she watched the screen intensely.

At this point Chitose had backed away giving the camera a somewhat blurred view of Juzo's body. He slowly looked around the room. Chitose looked down to see a puddle of orange and black on the ground. Then at the palm of her hand that appeared to be a shade of baby blue. Juzo struggled out of his restraints eventually having them simply slide off his wrist as a brown ooze. He slowly stood up as his jacket slid off his chest in another puddle mixing with the black and orange colors. His skin began to sag mixing with the holes in his body from the earlier assault to it.

Dr. Vince opened his mouth once more. Chitose held out her blue hand in an attempt to stop him but to no avail. The blades shot out at the boy, but they didn’t make impact. Both Chitose and Assistant watched in awe as the blades from his teeth began to melt, the thick white liquid dripping to the ground making a path from Juzo to the doctor. They stared at each other. The doctor in shock and Juzo underwhelmed.

Then the ceiling began to drip. Large drops of liquid cement. The two visual adults looked up at it before their shoes began to sink. Chitose looked down at her ankles began to be engulfed in the floor. It was like something out of a scary movie. NO, THIS WAS A NIGHTMARE! Reiko continued watching in horror as the ceiling and walls began flooding the room. Chitose began to applaud with glee before raising her hands above her to feel the oozing substance fall to her face and chest. Before the screen went blank. Reiko remained silent, unmoving as she gazed at the screen. The hum of the monitor echoed through her mind and senses.

“Wha-What happened?”

Chapter Text

“EEEEK THE MONSTER RIPPED MY CLOTHES OFF!” A teal haired actress screamed as her dress was torn off by the claws of a dopey looking creature with large purple bumps on its head and yellow eyes. The camera panned down to show a close up of her orange panties with yellow smile faces decorating them accompanied by a wolf whistle sound effect. Under them was an obvious pair of skin colored shorts that allowed her too keep her the movie teen friendly in a form of exaggerated burlesque. “BECAUSE OF COURSE THAT’S THE ONLY THING DAMMAGED, THIS IS 100 PERCENT ACCURATE ABOUT HOW REAL LIFE WORKS!” She teased breaking the fourth wall with a wink and giggle. She turned and screamed as the monster lifted her up and lowered her kicking figure headfirst into it’s large mouth. “WAIT NO, I STILL HAVEN'T SEEN FRANCE YET!” She shrieked as the words “The End" appeared along the screen.

“WOW that was terrible!” Reiko chuckled turning to look at Juzo who had spent the entire movie with an excited grin. “And that’s all she does?”

Juzo’s smile beamed wider. "Yep ‘Attack of the purple pervert!’ is a classic! Emi is the queen of satire.” He explained taking the disc back out of the machine and placing it into it's case. “She has no issue watching tons of good and bad movies just to make fun of them. She's also really flexible when it comes to genres. So sometimes she'll make kid friendly films, sometimes she'll make stuff like what we just watched, sometimes she goes a bit further. You should watch her comedy shows too, she has several on Netflix.” He rambled setting the DVD case on the table, before picking up another. “Emi F attorney of law!” He read not removing his wide smile. “You'll love this one, she's trying to save a local animal shelter from being sued. She gets beat up by ninja grannies, chugs a gallon of lemon juice, and throws a snake at Shouta Aizawa. It's the whole package!” He explained quickly so Reiko could hear his teeth clacking together.

Reiko watched him blissfully. Juzo was adorable when excited, especially when it was something he was passionate about. “Alright birthday boy! We did promise you an Emi Fukukado marathon, so for the next 6 hours watch as much as you want.” She chuckled checking her watch. “Where are you Tatami?” She asked under her breath. The blond girl had asked her to keep Juzo busy for a few minutes as she and Shouji ran to pick up his cake from the market.

As the movie started Juzo’s eyes widened in anticipation as Emi was up to her usual antics of being clumsy yet positive while retaining a sassy attitude, as she got hurt or embarrassed at the extent of those around her. In this case she had been tied by her ankles by several dog leashes as the large animals pulled her through a park and right smack into award winning actor Aizawa Shouta tripping him so he fell face first into a puddle of mud.

Then with a loud TOOT Tatami and Shouji came in to view from behind, blocking the screen. Tatami holding a rectangular package, and Shouji with a paper blow horn in his teeth held a circular chocolate birthday cake adorned with a sixteen in his hands.

“Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday to you!” Tatami sang with huge grin as Reiko joined in. “Happy Birthday Honenuki, Happy Birthday to you!” With each verse Shouji blew the small horn, but on the final verse approached Juzo holding out the cake for him to blow out the candles. As he did the group cheered with the tall boy setting the cake down on a table behind them in order to cut it.

“Present time!” Tatami cheered handing Juzo the box. It was the size of her chest covered in multiple red dots and a blue bow. As she handed it to him she began to bounce with excitement. Juzo tore open the package with glee to reveal a framed autographed pictures of Emi Fukukado herself. Juzo was speechless, his eyes wide, and his smile bigger that ever. “We all put in some cash to get it for you!” Tatami cheered giving him a hug which he gladly returned. Reiko grinned in tranquility.

“To my buddy Juzo, I hope to see you at one of my shows soon! Happy Birthday Pal 🤣🤣 -Emi Fukukado!” Juzo read before hugging the frame tight, as a piece of cake appeared in front of him and Reiko. Both taking them from a smiling Shouji who at the time wasn't wearing his mask. Not nervous with his current company.

“Here’s another one!” Tatami cheered pulling a large blue and silver box from the hall. “Its from your folks, so hurry and open it, your mom was super excited!”

“MY MOM?” Juzo asked in surprise as he began tearing at it.

“Yep, your mom! Isn't that right Reiko?” Chitose asked standing where Tatami had been before. “Wasn’t I super excited?” She asked again placing her hand on Juzo’s shoulder. Reiko looked over to where
Shouji had just stood. He was nowhere in sight, only the cake with a knife stabbed into the top of it. “Wasn’t I Reiko?” She asked once more. The silver haired girl turned to look at her only to be met with only Juzo's lipless body, pierced through his chest were the blades of Dr. Vince's teeth. His eyes shadowed by the dark, he opened his mouth to speak.

“Why Reiko?” He began “Why Reiko? Why Reiko? Reiko? Reiko? Reiko? Reiko?”

“Reiko?” A new voice asked, now standing in Juzo's place was her mother. Her black hair draped over her eyes, and her mouth was covered in dried vomit. She was so weak. Her skin pale, shoulders slumped, legs shaking. “Reiko? Reiko? Reiko?” She continued asking as a black drop of sludge dripped from above her, and onto her head blending in with her hair. Then a drop fell on Reiko’s. She brought her hand to her forehead to touch it. The slime spreading through her fingers as she gently pressed on it. Then another drop fell on her palm, her wrist, her full arm, until the entire ceiling began to rain on the two women. “Reiko?” her mother continued to ask. “Reiko?” her voice raised in volume and intensity. “REIKO?” she screamed, drowning in the obsidian liquid.

“Reiko?” Tatami asked looking at her friend with concern, in her arms was a huge fish tank filled with plush animals such as dogs and cats. “Are you ok?”

Blinking rapidly Reiko snapped out of her dream: “Sorry I didn’t get much sleep last night!” she replied rubbing her eyes. “Big project, and I’m almost done with it!” she yawned, “How’s the pet shop?” She asked switching the subject with a smile.

Tatami puffed out her cheeks. “You weren’t even listening to me!” she grumbled “I cant with you three, first Juzo and Shouji didn’t come home last night, then you don’t eat or sleep at all for god knows how long! Did you even have breakfast?” Tatami asked a stern look on her face, only for Reiko to answer her question by looking to the side in guilt. “I KNEW IT, I cant believe you!” She scolded stomping her foot on the pavement. Reiko scratched the back of her head apologetically. “Anyway, its going great!” The girls with twin tails remarked blowing kisses at her tank of toys. “My wittle babies awe gonna make me pass, huh?”

“That’s great!” Reiko smiled her stomach rumbling as they made their way to the gates of the school.

“Now go get some food!” Tatami scolded. “Its not like there’s class the day before presentations!” She scolded once more before walking into the building. “Dats wight huh my wittle cuties? Big bad Weiko isn’t as good about eating her bweakfast as you!”

Reiko watched her walk in. “Sorry Tatami, but Big Bad Weiko has bigger things to do!” she told herself. Last night after she retrieved herself with a hot shower. Reiko went to look over the footage again, only to find the cloud had been wiped. The footage of her planting the cameras, whatever Dr. Vince did Juzo, and most importantly what Juzo did afterwards were all gone.

The image of Juzo being impaled on the mangled extended blade like teeth of Doctor Vince, only to stand up transforming not only the blades, but parts of his own damaged flesh, and the room around him into puddles gunk now only existed in Reiko’s mind. His lipless face burned into her memories, tainting any good image she had of him.

As Reiko made her way to the Security department room she prayed Tadan would be there with a good explanation, or a possible solution to get the footage back. She opened the large door with ease to see that Tadan was there, but he wouldn’t be able to give her information. Because lying on Tadan’s desk was his severed head, his body was nowhere in site. It lay in a puddle of blood smothering several documents in red. His face wore an expression which was that of complete terror. His mouth bent into a scream, his nostrils flared, and his eyes open and bloodshot. Reiko stood paralyzed from the site, but was still able to somehow remain calm. It had seemed that after all she had been through, this might as well have happened.

“It really is a nasty habit Miss Yanagi!” A voice said to the side of her. Chitose sat on a table smoking a cigarette, wearing a new salmon jacket, and a sullen look on her face. Stacked next to her were what Reiko recognized as the information Shouji had gathered for her. In Chitose’s free hand was a picture of the woman with the mole that helped her form the Radio Station. “I must commend Mr. Shouji on how thorough his search was. I didn’t even know there were photos of Kayama in existence, she never was a fan of them being taken.” She reminisced tossing the photo into a trash bin along with the rest of the documents. “You know Reiko you and I aren’t so different.” She said inhaling a puff of her cigarette and blowing the smoke out of her mouth. “We both know how to let things go for the good of ourselves.” She said flicking the still lit cigarette bud into the bin igniting the papers. With a sigh she stood to her feet. “Lets be real for once dear, you’ve never trusted me. I asked you to destroy the last tie you have towards your deceased mother, for the chance at an opportunity to study for a job you really didn’t want. But a job that would help your father, and keep him close. And I must say, you’re amazing at it! You also know about little Saito.” She rubbed her stomach. “My poor baby had given up, and without him my husband did as well. I had no heir, I tried to get others, but they also lacked the willpower. Then Juzo came along, he told me the doctors said he had a ‘Bad Brain’ that kept him from thinking right, and it broke my heart. But despite that he never ceased to work even if he began to bleed, and he eventually passed the test fair and square to run Shoowaysha after my retirement. And with the help of me, and Miss Aoi he’s become, and will continue becoming so much more.”

Reiko gulped upon hearing this, she clenched her firsts tightly as she wore a look of disgust.

“You were watching right? You’ve seen what he’s become? What he can do? My coat, the floor, his own skin? Miss Aoi is working with him now. Later today she’ll be Taking him to a special facility, and after a year or two of training…MY BABY WILL BE THE BEST HE CAN BE!” She squealed putting her hands together. “Running a company while challenging god, as his mother I can't be more proud!”

“STOP CALLING YOURSELF THAT!” Reiko yelled her voice cracking. “You aren’t his mother and you know it! All those things you let happen! What kind of mother allows that?”

“Do you know what his other parents do? His dad works at a museum, and his mother is a masseuse. Teaching him how to swim, letting him watch tasteless comedy films, allowing the boy leave the house wearing whatever clothes not caring if they even match, and with his hair in a mess? What kind of parenting is that? A child is an extension of their mother and father. The children of the elite are the only children whose existence is truly justified, the rest just float in limbo! And I’ll tell you that boy deserves everything a woman like me can offer. You should know all about this Reiko, or would you like to run a library?” Chitose leaned in closer so that her mouth was mere inches from Reiko’s ear as she whispered: “Or die puking all over the floor as your child watches?”

In a brief instant Reiko lost all control. A splash of sweat rolled down her forehead, her eyes went wide, and she clenched her fist. Lifting her arm high above her head and slammed a right hook into Chitose’s cheek causing the woman to stumble backwards into the desk knocking Tadan’s head off balance so it slid off the edge.

“Ok, I deserved that. That got really dark, and I was WAY out of hand!” Chitose excused only to have Reiko dash at her swinging her other fist into Chitose’s stomach, then bringing the first one back to it's initial target. She did this several more times swinging her fist into the light haired woman in a quick, and dangerous combo of right hooks and jabs to her opponents face and stomach. Letting out one final cry of anguish she brought her fist down one more time only for it to be caught by the principal.

“THAT’S ENOUGH OF THAT!” Chitose snapped looking up at her teenage adversary. Her darkened eyes bewildered and parts of her face had turned light shade of blue, but not from bruising. Reiko looked in terror as parts of her hands were covered in different shades of makeup. Chitose’s teeth curled into sinister grin. “Now I have a proposition for you!” Upon hearing this Reiko began struggling once more yanking her arm to get it out of her enemies grasp, but it didn’t work. “There’s nothing you can do for Juzo, my baby’s fate has been decided already.” Reiko continued struggling. Then the pain set in. The side of her stomach had began to burn. Reiko ceased her struggling and looked down at her side. Where the pain was located her white shirt had began to form a red puddle. Her breathing had began to stiffen as her side enraged with pain. This was exactly like..

“I know what you’re thinking, ‘this is exactly like Yo!’” Chitose began. “But you see Reiko where Mr. Shindo had absolutely no potential, you are gushing with it!”

“Yo? You killed him?” Reiko asked weakly.

“Well not exactly, scum like him that who would rather whine all day about the fate of the world are better off in stress induced comas drinking out of tubes down in St Maria’s anyway right? Pick your own words, not copy what you hear others say!” Chitose sneered removing her hand from Reiko's wrist revealing a red spot. “ Now dear before you punch me again lets be clear, that’s your Ulnar Artery! If the explosion I placed there just now goes off it's bye bye hand! As well as a lot of blood that will probably kill you!” Chitose cooed.

“Explosive?” Reiko gasped

“My baby isn’t the only one with tricks!” Chitose acknowledged. “Now listen to me, you're not unintelligent Reiko. You're smart enough to find all this information, bug my office, and all without me knowing. If it wasn't for Mr. Dadan here reporting you!” Reiko looked over to the puddle of blood. “Yep turns out we had a pervert hoping to get some good shots of a pretty girl like you doing who knows what. Only for him to see too much. But again he wasn't smart like you!” Reiko continuously starred intensely at the puddle.

“Now its time to show me how smart you really are: give up junior detective, finish school here, go to college, let dad retire early. And most importantly never mention anything to anyone about last night. I’ve whipped the footage from the cameras. I’ve destroyed my background, and Juzo's existence has been taken care of as well. This whole thing is all so much bigger than you and me. So just accept a perfect marketing executive job. And put this nightmare behind you!” Reiko looked Chitose in the eye they watched each other for a minute or two before Reiko let out a sigh. Closing her eyes she nodded in agreement. “Good girl!” Chitose complimented.

Separating her chopsticks with her teeth Reiko had finally settled down to eat. Placing the wooden tools in her broth she was able to catch several noodles. She yanked them out of the soup and gave them a nice blow. Before setting the food in her mouth and slurping them up. The warm broth felt good on her aching throat as she looked around the cafeteria. It was almost empty aside from a few boys who were working on their project. Reiko went back for another bite. Filling her chopsticks with more noodles than before and shoving them in her mouth and slurping up the excess. Picking up the bowel Reiko took several gulps of the broth before exhaling in relief.

Toccata and Fugue in D minor cried out from her jacket pocket. The loud and sudden piece of classical music caused Reiko to jump as her phone began to vibrate. She pulled it out to see the word “Dad" and a picture of her father wearing a gentle smile. Smiling herself, Reiko unlocked her phone answering the call.

“Hi Dad!” Reiko answered a glimmer of peace in her voice.

“Reiko, sorry for interrupting I know your busy.” Her dad apologized on the other line. He sounded excited which put Reiko even more at peace.

“Not at all, I always have time to talk to you dad.”

“I appreciate it, anyways I'm going to the store to get food for you this weekend, any certain snacks you want?”

“Oh, just the usual rice crackers and sour cherries!”

“Got it! I'm also renting some movies from work. I'm not sure what you want to watch. We have one of those Fukukado woman's movies that just came in! A lot of teens seem to like those! Want to check it out?” Reiko paused listening to what he had to say. Her heart stopped as Images of Juzo excitedly watching the comedian flashed through her head. “But I'm not sure: ‘The Grumpy Werecat’s Nap’ sounds scary. I might need you there if I get too scared! He teased with a chuckle.”

“Dad have you been doing alright.”

“Sweetie I was kidding this movie doesn't look that scary I'll be alright!“

“No, I mean are you doing ok without me there with you all the time?”

“Oh Reiko I miss you of course, but I understand you have school.”

“Even without mom?”

“I miss your mother very much. But as much as I wish she were here, I-I’m glad she isn't suffering anymore. And I'd do anything to have it so you wouldn't have had to see her like that in the end.”

“Oh dad don’t say that, I’m glad I was able to be with her as much as I was able to get. Anyway I have to let you go now. I'm excited to see you this weekend!”

“Oh alright! I am too! Love you Reiko!”

“I love you too dad! Oh and dad, Shrimp Chips too please!”

“Got it.” As he hung up Reiko sighed once more before stepping up from her seat, and walking out the cafeteria.

The solid door was cold against the side of her head as Reiko listed through it silently. She didn’t hear anything, but didn't want to take any chances. After listening for several more minutes while keeping watch for bystanders, she gently knocked four times. She waited for a reply but it never came, so she twisted the door knob and pushed it open. Looking around the empty office it was almost the same as usual aside from one subtle difference she wasn’t able to make out. Reiko knew it wasn't important but she couldn't get over the feeling that something was wrong with the room. Making her way over to the desk she opened the top drawer (which surprisingly had no lock) to find the key to the hidden door. Sliding it out she playfully threw it in the air and caught it. Figuring a locked drawer isn't exactly needed if the door is hidden, Reiko pushed aside the surprisingly light bookcase to be met with the large metal door. Sliding the key into the lock, and with slight turn of her wrist she heard the tumblers shift unlocking the heavy iron threshold.

Tugging at the handle she attempted opening the unlocked door only for it not to budge. With another stronger yank it opened open a crack before entering a game of tug of war launching itself back in place with a loud slam. Pausing in place Reiko noticed something out the corner of her eye. Looking over to the far wall she saw Assistant. Reiko made her way over to the woman who with further observation ended up being asleep. The bottom of her eyes dark and heavy. Her calm breath whispered. And her shoulders bounced up and down rhythmically. Reiko shook her hand in front of the sleeping woman’s face before snapping her fingers several times. She was out cold.

Turning around Reiko was able to finally tell what was so different about the room. The poster for the Emi Fukukado movie was nowhere in sight. Instead it was replaced by an empty case displaying a blank background. Reiko gave it a closer look, before making her way to the door a second time, to return to the task at hand. Reiko using all her might yanked once more on the handle gritting her teeth she watched the door open a foot before the weight, and her exhaustion got to her slamming it shut with a WHAM! Gasping Reiko peered over to Assistant, relived to see the noise hadn't awoken her.

“I can open it wide enough, just not enough to keep it open long enough for me to get inside.” Setting her hand on her chin she looked around the room for clues, or maybe a helpful tool. And then she saw it. Sitting maybe two or three feet away was a trash bin. “Finally, one of these things are on my side!” Picking up the bin she set it next to the entryway. “Alright last try!” she confirmed to herself. With all her might she yanked at the door handle. Her arms stretched, her teeth gritted, and her feet slid. The weight was almost unbearable. In the few seconds she was pulling her pits became moist, and her lungs ached. Finally with all her might she was able to force the door open enough to slide the bin in place. With her foot Reiko hooked her ankle on the bin reeling her leg connect the pieces of her entryway to save Juzo.

But it didn’t work, standing on one foot, and pulling the heavy iron door had been too much on the adolescent girl, as she ended up falling on her shoulder. With a groan she watched in frustration as the door began to close. “WAIT NO!” she cried out holding out her hand in desperation. The door listened to her pausing in place. Reiko’s eyes bulged in shock. A light blue outline surrounded the door apparently holding it in place. Taking a second to watch the door and then her hand. After taking a second to get ahold of herself she slowly pushed the trash bin between the door and its frame. Slowly making her way to her feet, Reiko watched the door not taking her eyes off it. Letting her breath out the door quickly slammed into the bin forcing Reiko to jump. Taking a few cautious steps towards it she observed the surprisingly obedient entryway, and then her hand. “Weird.”

Entering the hall she had noticed the lights had already been turned on, despite this the room was unnaturally dim. The dark colored hall, mixed with a third of the lights flashing on and off, and another third being completely off gave the hall an eerie effect. The walls looked as if they were oozing, but still remained solid. Reiko hurried down it, her instincts screaming at her to get out of there any way possible. Half saying to get Juzo and run, the other saying forget him and just go! The path went on forever despite Reiko’s speed. The colors and epileptic lightshow hurt her head. Her shoes clacked as she continued picking up speed as she rushed to the hidden room.

Finally she had made it. An open doorway came into sight. Halting to a slow stop she looked through the doorway to see the room from her security camera the night before. And it was just how she left it. The floors walls and ceiling were as if they were made from abstract malfunctioned candle maker. Splashing and dripping all over the place, while also being entirely solid and thick. It moved slowly, slithering like snakes all over one another. All along the walls and floor. Every now and again a trail of it fell from the ceiling and onto the ground, mixing together with the others like a mess of slowly moving worms. In the center of the room sat Juzo in the slightly melted chair. His eyes shut as he slept calmly, breathing in and out. Despite his calm expression his lipless mouth was still tangled into a sneer. It hurt Reiko to look at him. Such a kind fun loving person transformed into this horrid sight.

She approached him setting her hand on his shoulder. With a shake she attempted to wake him. “Juzo, hey Juzo wake up!” she tried shaking him harder the longer she went on. “Come on Juzo we need to get out of here before they get here!” she begged now shaking him with both hands.

“I’m afraid that wont work dear.” Speak of the devil a familiar voice scolded her from behind. “My my, you didn’t listen after all.” Reiko didn’t have to turn to know Chitose was standing behind her. “It’s amazing that he’s able to use it even when he’s asleep!” She walked around Reiko and stood behind Juzo’s chair. Her skin was completely blue, and her hair a sparkly lilac. In her hands was what looked like a metal mask like one worn by a knight. Placing it on his head the eyes glowed crimson. Reiko looked around as the sluggish ground ceased to move. “There we go baby!” Chitose cooed, “Just until you get a hold of it, Miss Curator will make you perfect for me!” With a kiss on his head she looked up a Reiko. “Well doormats can't ever truly reach their full potential can they?” She asked with a smile.

“Give him to me!” Reiko barked standing attention, her eyes glaring at the woman. Then suddenly a sharp pain filled her knees forcing Reiko to the solid ground. In reaction to the spontaneous jolt of torment Reiko grabbed her knees in agony. Stinging them even more from the extra pressure she had thoughtlessly added. Looking down they were disgustingly bruised. The blue and purple colors swirling around her joints violently. Gritting her teeth Reiko sneered at the ceiling in agony. The sensation of her kneels being useless was frustrating as it were painful. This early in the game, and she had already lost.

“You’ve been quite the pain young lady: diligent, nosey, refusing to do as she's told. Just like a young me! And it would break my heart to kill such a onerous soul. But luckily I won't have too because mothers getting twins!” Chitose cheered jumping up and down. Reiko looked at her confused. “The Door? Just Now? There's no way a high school student mid puberty could open that on her own, yet you did! I have so many questions it's a shame they won't be answered!” The woman cheered shaking her fists in excitement. Kneeling beside the wounded girl Chitose set her hand under Reiko's chin. “You should be honored dear, a slight jolt of something special without a single drop of blood is wonderful for su-”

SHINK! The room went still. Chitose stopped mid sentence the only sounds she made now were those of shock and disbelief. Having taken advantage of the situation Reiko pulled a fork from her jacket that she had gotten earlier from the cafeteria and jabbed it right into the side of Chitose's neck barely missing her artery. “You really do talk too much!” Reiko groaned looking into The principal's green eyes that were wide with shock. Her veins pulsed violently. Yanking the fork out of the enemy Reiko lunged at her again aiming for one of the said eyes only to end up punching the woman instead.

Chitose fell backwards dazed and injured. Her crimson blood streaming down her neck as it was pumped out by the enraged and throbbing vein. Reiko looked at her hand in confusion. The fork wasn’t there, only a small puddle of silver liquid that slowly slid down the sides of her hand and onto the floor. Looking up Reiko was met with a sinister glow as Juzo starring down at her. His helmet’s eyes beaming almost angrily as they fixed themselves on her. His hand opened wide motioning her direction.

“J-juzo?” Reiko asked weakly, the weight of her emotions was too much. Her heart breaking just like her knees had just done. “Why?” His eyes beamed emotionless.

“That’s right mama's angel coming to help her.” Chitose rose to her feet weak. Despite covering her neck the blood was still managing to flow through her fingers running into the sleeves of her jacket. “That’s mama's boy! Now Juzo I think we need to teach your little sister manners as well!” She taunted opening a hatch on the helmet to enter a code while giving the injured girl a pitiful look.

Reiko set her head down on the floor too tired to go on. The wet floor sliding into her hair. “I’m sorry dad.” she whispered as the ground softened around her body. Without fighting she sunk into the dark floor watching Juzo, the boy she failed to help. In the last second his emotionless helmet almost seemed to shift into his smiling face from when she first met him, as she closed her eyes just before they were submerged in the liquid cement.

Her world had become an abyss, the ground was cold and dense. Reiko kept both her eyes and mouth closed as she slid further down into the concrete afterlife. It was completely silent aside from the occasional squish from her movements. She traveled further before stopping completely as the earth hardened around her. She opened her eyes to see only complete darkness. The beyond kind of darkness that made her stomach drop. After a minute or so her eyes had began to dilate allowing her to realized she had sunk into a small sphere. Her breathing becoming even more rugged by the lack of air. The cramped unnatural shape of the area caused her knees to flare up more. And a large hand slid through the ground grabbing hold of her.

Chapter Text

“With the ‘Crystal Chaos’ I’ll plunge this land into the depths of Obsiworld!” The Poison Knight cried out, forming a huge lavender shard from their left forearm.

Tetsutetsu set his game controller down on the navy rug in front of his crossed legs as he cracked his knuckles. With a sigh he let out a forceful puff of air from his nose in preparation for the final bout.

“Oh yeah, bring it!” The character Tiago cried out flexing his arm and leg muscles, as he leaped into combat position ready to start the round.

“READY? SET? VANQUISH!” The testosterone filled voice of the games announcer roared as the combatants went at it. Tetsutetsu’s fingers mashed the plastic buttons and rubber joystick with swift and powerful movements. With ease he was able to enter the right code to unlock Tiagos special move: “THE DELTOID DEVASTATION DRAGON!”

All was accomplished while being sure not to move his upper body too much, because resting her head on his shoulder was his girlfriend Itsuka Kendo. Her orange hair tickled his nose as she read a book diligently. Her current position being extremely comforting for both of them. As Tetsutetsu was the best kind of guy to rest her head on. His warm body and muscular arms made for a wonderful pillow, as the hypnotic sounds of his button mashing could put anyone to sleep. And for Tetsutetsu the smell of his girlfriend drove him wild. The riveting scent of coffee mixed with her citrus shampoo threw him into a cyclone of bliss. When she’d look up at him, the aquamarine gems that were her eyes accompanied by her freckled cheeks made his heart beat like a drum. And even though they've been dating a few months now he'd still blush whenever she acknowledged him.

“Alright so here's how I'm seeing it!” Kendo began, as Tetsutetsu paused his game so he could hear her answer. “So Salazar has decided to hold back on fighting Deborah for the time being since he says he doesn't feel like killing weak prey! So he wants her to stand up and improve herself then challenge him again when she’s stronger. He’s also aware she’s the only one capable of killing him, so he wants the challenge, and the rush..right?” She confirmed flashing him those treasured turquoises making his heart race faster.

“Oh Nice! You almost got it!” Tetsutetsu replied an excited look forming on his face that made Kendo smile. “But not a hundred percent right!” he retorted calming down a bit and gazing to the side ashamed. “You see Salazar is a real honor driven guy, and you have his tone right that he wants Deborah to get stronger to defeat him. But at the time she's way too weak! The guy who wrote this was one of those boss mafia types, so the honor system was really important. And a dishonorable thing to do would to cut down someone you know doesn’t have a single chance against you! And Salazar knows that if he fought her now both killing her, or going easy on her would force him to loose his honor. So the only way he can die now is being patient.” Tetsutetsu explained noticing the look of self disappointment on Kendo’s face. “BUT YOU WERE STILL CLOSER THAN MOST PEOPLE, OTHERS JUST THINK OF THE GUY AS SOME JERK WHO DIDN'T SEE DEBORAH AS A THREAT SO YOU STILL GOT MOST OF IT RIGHT YOU JUST DIDN'T KNOW THE HIS-”

Kendo crawled up so that her face was extremely close to his. Watching him ramble apologetically for a second before gently shutting him up with a loving kiss on the lips. Both of them closed their eyes in acceptance as they took a second to enjoy the others closeness before separating their lips to breathe. Kendo lowered herself to rest her head on his chest to listen to his heart beat rapidly. Tetsutetsu smiled starring off into space. Still dazed from the sudden act of romance.

“Hey Tetsutetsu?” Kendo asked closing her eyes,

“Thanks for tutoring me!” Typically the situation was reversed. Both Kendo and Tetsutetsu had pretty average grades. With hers being barely below honor worthy, and his being barely passing. With the exception of any sports or physical hands on activity which they both excelled at. So when it came to studying they were a great team. Kendo usually being the one to explain things, but Tetsutetsu occasionally picking up on things she might have missed. That was because if there was something Tetsutetsu excelled at, it was analyzing a situation. Tetsutetsu had the natural talent for picking up small details in books and such, then using them to guess what happens next. And eventually his talent transferred to real life as well. From being able to figure out the twists and plots of movies before watching them. To telling if someone was sad or upset at any time no matter how hard they might have tried to hide it. And most important, it made him extremely good at video games. Player or CPU no matter the opponent, after two to three moves Tetsutetsu in instants could recognize their strategy quickly and with ease. Dominating combat in return.

Though despite his skills in analysis Tetsutetsu was actually kind of a dumbass, and did not have an inside voice telling him how to act proper in certain situations. Making him come off as oafish, and annoying to most. Despite having good intentions at all times. That mixed with his slightly intense face made it so that only so many people couldn’t bear to tolerate him for more than two hours at a time. His parents, Kendo, Kendo’s friends: Momo and Tooru, and his literature teacher Ms Sosaki, were the only people he could think of off the top of his head. And though gaming was fun but Tetsutetsu was also extremely passionate about writing. He was able to break down so many writers works, that he in return had aspired to create his own. So he could have his own group of fans analyzing his writing centuries from now.

“Are you guys being gross?” A voice called from outside the door before it swung open to reveal girl wrapped in bandages and wearing her school uniform. “I like how you ask that, but still barge in anyway!” Kendo chuckled as her head remained rested on Tetsutetsu’s chest. The bandaged girl proceeded in, looking around at the organized surroundings of gaming consuls and literature books until finally kneeling down beside the two lovebirds.

“Your mom told me to give this to you!” she informed handing Tetsutetsu a note. “Hey Tetsutetsu!” she suddenly shifted the subject. “You’re a boy, I'm talking to this guy whose a martial artist, what kind of things do guys like that like? OH AND HE SENT A FLAN EMOJI! WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?” She squealed showing him the phone as he read the note. “He wants flan I guess!” Tetsutetsu replied glancing over the paper. “OH TOKAGE IS MOVING BACK HERE IN SEPTEMBER!” He cried out as Kendo quickly sat up, her eyes widened from the sudden sound of her boyfriend’s yelling startling her. Tooru gazed at him confused as Kendo joined her with anticipation as they watched, waiting for him to continue. “Tokage was my friend when I was a kid, she moved away for a bit, but now she's returning for the final semesterl!” he explained his eyes flashing with excitement. “We play Dragon Kingdom on the weekends online all the time, but I'm excited to see her in person!” He jumped to his feet. “Ill be right back, I'm going to call her!”

As he ran out the room Kendo chuckled. Tooru gave her a concerned look: “Another girl? You aren't afraid he might, you know!” Kendo gave her a doubtful look. “Yeah you're right!” Tooru burst out laughing, “This is Tetsutetsu we're talking about.”

A month had passed making it a cloudy September day. The air felt warm, but not uncomfortable. Grackles and Doves cried out to one another lending a chorus of noise to fill the sweater weather air. It wasn’t a perfect day for moving at all. Tetsutetsu had been walking with Kendo to the school. The soles of their shoes scrapped on the sidewalk, as his fingers weaved together with hers. Allowing their palms to embrace.

“You know you don't have to wait for me, right? Student council meetings go on forever.” Kendo asked looking at him with concern.

“Yeah I know, but it's not like I have anything better to do. Besides Kendo the library is great!” He replied flashing her a bright grin.

“You should be home to see Tokage when she arrives!” Kendo exchanged her own adorable smirk.

“I’ll see her when I introduce you to her, besides she’ll probably be busy unpacking.” He intervened.

Kendo squeezed his hand and placed her head on his shoulder. “I love that you like being with me, but I also understand that your friend that you haven't physically seen in forever will be in the neighborhood soon. And you'll definitely be better off helping her, than sitting in a dark library reading the same old books over and over.” She informed. “I wont get jealous, I’m not that kind of person!”

Tetsutetsu groaned: “Hagakure…”

“Yeah, she’s afraid I’m going to get jealous of your childhood friend or some other light novel plot. You know? Anyway I trust you! Why would the guy who was my entire election staff, cheer squad, and the best pillow on earth. Who became all of that in an instance, cheat on me?” She asked kissing his cheek making him blush. “Go help her out, if you give me the address I'll meet you there!”

Tetsutetsu stopped suddenly tightening his his grip on his girlfriend as she was yanked to a halt. “Kendo! I love you!” He cheered before kissing her on the lips. Something she gladly returned. Hugging her tightly they said their goodbyes. Kendo grinned as she watched Tetsutetsu jog backwards down the sidewalk giddily waving to her.

“You’re in good spirits Tetsutetsu!” A voice stated from behind him. Tetsutetsu spun around to be met with the familiar face of Momo Yaoyorozu. She stood tall with a pleasant expression. A large book bag in her arms. She was the kind of girl that had it all: money, brains, looks(although not as nice as Kendo on that last one). While retaining a great personality. She'd tutor anyone who asked, she'd buy lunch for those who couldn't afford it. She was open to talk to anyone about anything no matter her level of interest in the subject itself. Tetsutetsu recalled that on his birthday two years ago she baked him cookies, despite both hardly knowing one another. And as student body president everyone loved her.

Well almost, if there was one thing Yaoyorozu did that upset people, it was turning down their confessions of love. Through her middle and high school years so far, roughly forty to fifty people have asked her out, each of which were met with the same response: “No thank you, I'm not interested!” No matter the person, no matter their looks, talents, or upbringing. It was the same answer. Most took it with dignity, but others not so much. One boy tried holding onto her leg until she went out with him. Another girl followed her home until Yaoyorozu’s parents called the police. Nobody knew why Yaoyorozu turned everyone down, but nobody was actually going to ask for an explanation.

“I take it Kendo is already inside setting up?” Yaoyorozu asked with a pleasant grin.

“Yeah I walked her here, and she told me to go see my friend!” he answered with a friendly smile.

“Oh? Well I hope you have fun! I'll see you at school Monday!” She said nodding to him, which he returned with a salute of respect as she strolled off. Tetsutetsu made his way to Tokage's house. The moving van was already there having unloaded a little more than half the boxes, while others had just been set on the grassy yard. Two large movers carried a sofa down the pathway leading up to the entryway of the house.

Then he saw her. Standing on the grass was a girl with mossy green hair. Despite her slender figure she was somewhat toned in her arms and calves, which were adorned with socks that didn't match creeping up to her thighs. She looked different than he remembered, more mature in those four and a half years. Her hair had grown longer, and her facial features had sharpened over time. She held a can of soda that she brought to her lips to get a drink.

“TOKAGE!” Tetsutetsu called out running over to her. The girl turned to flash him a smile before charging at him. Dropping the can on the ground, the grass crunched under her foot as she made her way over. Her hands were held out in front of her in anticipation. Getting no closer than a foot from him she pounced at the buff boy in an excited hug!

“TETSUTETSU IT IS YOU! HOWS IT GOING? HOW HAVE YOU BEEN? YOU HAVE TO HELP ME CARRY BOXES!” She asked and demanded all at once as she always tended to do, before immediately picking up a box and handing it to him. Kneeling over she continued to stack two more on top the first. “I’m so glad you're here, my folks went to get food so I need all the help I can get! Look how buff you’ve gotten!”

“These are so light, give me something with more weight will ya?” Tetsutetsu complained lifting the boxes up and down with ease.

“See! Too swol for wimpy boxes full off….welllll those are probably my bras!” Setsuna teased sticking out her tongue. Tetsutetsu went red and set the boxes down in the grass. “OH MY GOD YOU'RE STILL SO INNOCENT!” Setsuna laughed. “They’re just stuffed animals you goof!”

“You’re shameless Tokage!” Tetsutetsu pouted picking up several heavier boxes and making his way into the house. The walls were grey, the floor brown. It's aesthetic was a mix of classy yet simple, as Tetsutetsu carried the boxes through the den. “Where do these go?” He asked looking behind himself.

“Down the hall on your right, second door on the left.” She answered cheerfully. Her voice shaking from being reunited.

Following her orders he made his way into her room. It was painted lime green with grey carpet. Inside were several stacks of boxes cluttered around, her bedframe and mattress leaned on the wall, and a blue desk sat before an open window. While a matching dresser sat on the other side of the room, underneath a set of artistically places shelves. Tetsutetsu set the boxes down with the others, and turned to the grinning girl.

“I can't believe how much a stud you've become!” She closed her eyes. “So where's your girlfriend?” She asked leaping at him. Her sharp teeth bared and her split pupils wide. She set her hands on his shoulder and shook him. “YOU TELL ME SO MUCH ABOUT HER ALL THE TIME WHILE WE GAME! I WANNA SEE HER!” “SHAMELESS!” He repeated loud enough that several neighborhood dogs began barking. “But yeah she’ll be here soon, she’s at a student council meeting!” Setsuna wolf whistled sitting him down of the floor beside her as they began to unpack boxes.

They talked a while: about the past, the future, Kendo and Hagakure, Setsuna's friends from her old school, TV shows, movies, books, and much more. They laughed and laughed at the others company. The company of a true friend. Occasionally Setsuna would find an old photo or relic, and they’d have a nostalgia party. Setsuna was just like she had always been a fun person and great friend. And Tetsutetsu would never be more thankful for such a pleasant afternoon with his wonderful friend. Little did he know it would be his last.

Eventually three hours had passed, and there was a knock on the door. Setsuna motioned Tetsutetsu to stay put as she left the room to go check who it was. There was a beat before excited squealing echoed the halls of the house. Next thing he knew Setsuna ran back to the room as she dragged a tired yet amused Kendo with her.

“YOU SAID SHE WAS A CUTIE, BUT YOU REALLY HIT THE JACKPOT WITH ORANGE JUICE HERE!” Setsuna bounced up and down as Kendo blushed from what she had said. “Oh I want to know everything! Sit sit sit!” She began dragging the exhausted Kendo to the ground before setting her hand of the orange haired girls shoulder. “Wait, I'm sick of sitting and chatting! Lets go somewhere!” Setsuna cheered!

“I can see why you two get along!” Kendo teased looking over at her blushing boyfriend, then to the grinning girl who was still holding onto her gleefully. “Where were you thinking? We know some good restaurants if you're hungry!” Kendo suggested returning to her calm tone as she got used to the green haired girls embrace.

“I honestly don’t want to be bugged by other people, maybe somewhere quiet!” Setsuna suggested placing her finger on her chin studiously.

“Good call. I’d be lying if I said some of the people here weren’t a tad bit irritating with how chatty they were.” Kendo replied her eyes once more resting on Tetsutetsu kindly, as her smile made his heart skip a beat.

“I KNOW!” Setsuna announced, “THE BEACH!” She cheered.

“In September?” Kendo asked confused.

“Why not? Its only the third day, and its not that cold. Besides all the annoying people wont be there so you two can have some privacy, aside from me!” Setsuna teased.

“You’re shameless Tokage!” Tetsutetsu repeated making Setsuna laugh and Kendo smile.

“The beach sounds pretty nice!” Kendo replied “I think we should go! What about you Tetsu?” She asked flashing her aquamarine eyes at the grey haired, weak in the knees boy. As his face went red one final time before covering his mouth with one hand, and giving her a thumbs up with his other. “Then it’s settled, Tetsu you should go get the boom box from your room. We can have a dance party!” She looked over to Setsuna. “If you don't mind I can lend you a swimsuit!” she asked.

Before she had said another word Tetsutetsu was already making his way out the door and running a few blocks over to his house. Running upstairs he reached his room to put on a pair purple and silver flower patterned swim trunks. He also grabbed a towel and the boom box before sliding on a button up shirt that he left open, then eagerly ran out the door. Making his way to the beach located only a few streets over. Looking down at his phone he saw a message from Kendo saying they were heading there too. “That was quick.” Tetsutetsu told himself as he continued running.

As he arrived the beach was completely free of any people. The seagulls screamed loudly as the waves crashed over one another. The salty and cool wind tickled Tetsutetsu’s skin making his hair stand on edge. Placing the boom box on the ground he layed out his towel on the moist hard sand. Before sitting down he took a good look at the waves, they were fast and violent. Almost as if they were fighting one another to get away from the deeper parts. The green water splattered on impact as they wrestled. Looking in the shallow part small flashes of silver light glared at him. With a closer look Tetsutetsu was also able to recognize them as a large groups of wiggling fish, cramped in the shallow water like a cheap backdoor fish tank.

“Weird!” Tetsutetsu told himself walking over to the water to get a closer look. “Better keep an eye on one another!”

“OY TETSUTETSU!” He heard someone call out behind himself. He turned to see Kendo and Setsuna approaching. Both carrying large bags, that they set down next to him.

“We figured, we’d be here a bit so we brought food and all kinds of other stuff!” Setsuna informed him, setting the bag down and removing the black sarong from around her waist so reveal a green stripped one piece swimsuit. Kendo did the same to show a two piece teal one with white and yellow flowers. One that Tetsutetsu had never seen before.

“K-KENDO WHERE DID YOU GET THAT?” He pointed at her red as a beet.

“Oh?” Kendo asked looking down at herself in the swimsuit. “Well Setsuna already had some unpacked, so since we wore the same size she let me borrow one of hers! Detnerat! Looks good huh?” She asked winking at her flustered boyfriend.

A chilly gust of wind blew Kendo’s ponytail, as she shivered and hugged herself in an attempt to keep warm. Tetsutetsu in an instant rushed over her embracing her in a warm hug. She hummed, very much enjoying the sudden wave of heat. They stood like that for a second immersing themselves in one another’s warmth. Setsuna grinned as she pulled a boogie board from her bag. Happy for her friend.

Tetsutetsu rubbed her shoulders in a better attempt to warm her up, only to without warning lifted her up off the ground in a tight embrace. She was helpless as her immediate reaction was to curl up in a ball as he walked her over to the water.

“WAIT, TETSUTETSU! DON’T DO IT!” She jokingly cried out in a false act of despair, as Setsuna cheered Tetsutetsu on. With a heave he submerged her into the cold water, before he pulled her soaking, squirming body out of the salty pool, shivering and giggling. “That was dirty!” she joked giving him a kiss on the cheek, as he let go of her ankles. Her body began to submerge so the water reached her thighs. All three teenagers laughed before Kendo got her revenge.

Grabbing Tetsutetsu by the wrists she yanked him into the ocean with her. The two giggled as they playfully wrestled and splashed one another. Setsuna watched form the shore, taking turns cheering for one only to switch to the other the second theygot the upper hand. This went on for a bit, the two teens cheered and screamed at their watery brawl.

“OUCH!” Kendo suddenly cried out after she fell backwards in the water from being tripped during their game. “Tetsutetsu time out something cut me!” she ordered rubbing the lower left side of her back. Tetsutetsu ran over to her. He spun her around to get a better look. Indeed in that exact spot was a large scrape in her soft skin. Nothing fatal, but still painful. And if left unintended had a high possibility of infection. “As I thought sharp rocks!” Kendo studied bending over to feel inside the water.

“Here let's go to shore so I can rub some alcohol on it. You brought some right?” Tetsutetsu asked taking her hand. She nodded with a smile wincing in pain as she moved. They made their way to the spot to see Setsuna attempting to tie a safety chord to her boogie board. Too focused to notice what happened. Reaching through the bag Tetsutetsu was able to find the rubbing alcohol and some cotton swabs. He dipped the swab with the clear liquid before taking it over to his girlfriend. She was soaked and sitting patiently on his laid out towel, watching him cutely with a gentle smile and tired eyes. He went behind her to get a good look at the scar.

It was the size of a pencil going from her mid waist down to the waistband of her swim suit bottoms. It wasn't yet flaring as the salt water was able to keep it at bay. Holding his breath Tetsutetsu began to dab the swab on the area. Kendo winced in pain as her joints locked from the sudden chill of the alcohol, mixed with its healing sting. Tetsutetsu finished wiping the cut and gave her a hug from behind. Kendo cooed in approval turning her head to give him a peck on the cheek.

“Music?” He asked.

“Sure” Kendo replied.

He made his way over to the boom box. Switching it on the speakers released some typical beach like dance music from one of his dads mix tapes. The tune was contagious as Tetsutetsu swung his arms over his head in a rhythmic motion, and rocked his hips from side to side. Both Kendo and Setsuna clapped and cheered at his adorkable display of dancing. With a wince Kendo rose to her feet and made her way over to her groovy boyfriend and joined him. She bent her arms slightly as she pointed her fingers out. She swayed them back and forth quickly as she shook her hips and head to the rhythm of the music as well. The pair looked hilarious as neither were really that good when it came to dancing. Yet anyone who saw them could see it was clear that the two of them belonged together. As the music slowed to a stop. Setsuna roared with applause as their performances whistling loudly.

The next song began to play, a smooth harmony of deep voiced A Capella singers romantically serenaded the beach. “Alright that’s my cue to get swimming.” Setsuna began rising to her feet, boogie board in hand. “Peace out homies!” She cheered running and diving into the water.

Kendo and Tetsutetsu watched her swim out a few feet only to scream as she was thrown into the deep by the water. Then seconds later rose out cheering in glee. The harmonizing melody cried out like a spell as Tetsutetsu set his hand on Kendo’s healthy hip and grabbed her opposite side hand. She in return placed her free hand on his shoulder. And the two began to dance. They swayed back and forth, entrapped with the others gem like eyes, they smiled as the peaceful music guided their movement. Their damp hair and skin chilled in by the cold salty air, but that wasn't an issue. Because at this moment they felt as if the only thing that mattered was the person they were dancing with. The music belted out its final chorus. The singers giving it their all, as the two teens continued to sway alongside one another. And as the music came to a stop they both leaned in for one short but incredible kiss.

They stared each other in the eyes as another funky song blasted from the boom box.

“Thank You!” Tetsutetsu replied with another warm smile, which made Kendo nod with approval embracing him in a hug. As they listened to the waves they noticed something was off. Setsuna had been noticeably quiet.

They both unanimously looked up at the large body of water. Both going cold. Kendo gulped as her eyes widened and her mouth hung open in shock.Tetsutetsu on the other hand had gone pale, his eye twitched in disbelief as he clenched his fists squeezing Kendo’s hand, but neither cared. Because the green ocean water, in one slight area. Swaying back and forth in the crashing waves, growing larger and larger, a very distinct shape of red!

Chapter Text

“Reporters gather as today marks the four year anniversary of Detnerat CEO Rikiya Yotsubashi’s mysterious disappearance. While going on a vacation in the Kaeru diving prefecture, along with his wife Shiude. Reports indicate he took the trip as a gift for his wedding anniversary, and as a way to prevent any unwanted stress before the holiday seasons. Witness testimonies including that of Shiude, say Yotsubashi left his hotel room to get ice, only to never return. The only evidence of foul play being the ice bucket itself, and a dent on a nearby wall. The latter of which hotel staff claim wasn’t there before. Investigators have yet to close the case, but fear it may eventually become inevitable. In other news public figure Shining Dust is in our studio today to speak against claims that his newest media movement is: “Showing similarities to the Demon Hunters religious cult.”

“You probably don't wanna watch this, you kids have enough on your mind,” a muscular nurse remarked, switching off the flat screen TV playing the news. His dusty blond hair shimmered under the bright hospital lights and his long arms stretched as he stood on his tip toes, despite his large stature.

Tetsutetsu and Kendo sat silently in the hospital waiting room. The cold air caused their moist skin to be covered with goosebumps. Tetsutetsu had only a towel draped over his shoulder, since he had given Kendo his shirt to wear with her sarong. They had no time to change as they hastily rushed Tokage to the hospital.

After noticing the blood in the ocean, Tetsutetsu dove in without hesitation. He searched the red areas of the water until he eventually found Tokage unconscious with a large bloody gash on her forehead. She must have gotten caught in one of the harsh waves and hit it on a rock. Tetsutetsu carried her to the shore. Taking care to make sure to support her head, keeping it from going under. Trudging through the ocean until he was met by Kendo, who ran over to them, and placed a towel over the leaking wound. They made it to the hospital just in time, and Setsuna was immediately rushed into the ER.

“Alright, I’ve got good news, and I’ve got better news,” the giant man teased, his hospital scrubs shifting with his leg muscles as he knelt down to eye level. His onyx eyes glimmered with a ray of hope.

“The good news is we live in an age where medical technology is practically magic, so your friend will make a full recovery in about two and a half days.” Both Tetsutetsu and Kendo sighed in relief, the latter looked over to her boyfriend patting him on the shoulder, signifying everything was going to be ok. “Better news, we spoke to her parents and they gave us the ok to regrow the missing tissue lost in the accident.”

Tetsutetsu’s eyes widened. “Regrow?”

“Yeah, the injury damaged a small part of her frontal lobe, but luckily, it’s still fresh so they’re acting quickly to create new tissue. If the procedure goes right. Our lead doctor for this kind of thing is the best in the field. He’ll be the one replacing the damaged tissue with the regrown one. He's not much for other things aside from a check up or two, but watching him do this. He’s like a whole different guy! Your friend will be her same old self,” he remarked, giving Tetsutetsu a comforting tap on the knee.

“It’ll be alright,” he reassured, jumping to his feet with a kind smile. “How about a soda to help calm you down? I’m thinking a root beer and an orange cream,” he guessed, pointing two fingers at the teens.

“Sounds great, thank you!” Kendo smiled, nodding at the man who gave her a thumbs up in return as he walked off.

“That’s a relief!” she sighed, turning back to Tetsutetsu. “Right?”

“I was too careless!” he replied, watching the floor intently.

“Huh?” Kendo asked, her eyes widening as she grabbed his hands in concern.

“I WAS TOO CARELESS! I KNEW SOMETHING WAS OFF ABOUT THE WATER AND I STILL GOT DISTRACTED!” he bawled, yanking his hands away and shoving them over his eyes.

“Huh? No! You couldn’t have known this,” Kendo argued, shocked by Tetsutetsu’s retort.

“I NOTICED THE WAVES! AND THE FISH! THEY WERE OFF! AND I TOLD MYSELF WE NEEDED TO WATCH OVER EACH OTHER, BUT I GOT DISTRACTED!” he cried. “I WASN’T PAYING ATTENTION AND THIS HAPPENED! I'M SUPPOSED TO BE OBSERVANT, RIGHT?”

Kendo sat in silence, surprisingly unable to come up with a reply. A shroud of guilt covered her as she embraced her sobbing boyfriend. “It’ll be alright, it'll be alright!” she told him, stroking his back.

The operation was a success and the two were allowed to see the bedridden Tokage. She was woozy, but for the most part herself. She joked, chatted, and complained as if nothing happened, but her bandage wrapped forehead acted as a grim reminder.

Tetsutetsu, Kendo, and occasionally Tooru went to visit her every day she was in the hospital. All but one late-night, Tokage had apparently suffered from a panic attack. The nurse ended up passing off as a nightmare, but just in case refused to allow guests to visit. Despite this, a few days later, Tokage was released right in time for school to begin.
Now, she sat in the stuffy auditorium with Tetsutetsu waiting patiently for the beginning of the start-of-semester assembly.

“Wow, when do these student ran assemblies usually start?” she asked in a bored tone. Tetsutetsu looked over at her squirming in her chair before whipping out her phone. Her expression seemed normal, as the scrape on her head had already almost healed. All that was left was a small gash.

“Wow your forehead healed up pretty quick!” Tetsutetsu commented, making the green haired girl stroke it gently. “It doesn't look like the accident happened a few days ago!” he remarked.

“LOL, I guess. The doctor was a pro after all!” Setsuna teased, continuing to fondle the scar. “Ah well. These things happen!”

The feeling of guilt and shame hit the silver haired boy, forcing him to look to the side. “Tokage?” he asked, still looking away from her but sensing her questionable gaze. “I just wanted to say so-” He began before being interrupted by a booming voice over the loud speaker.

“Welcome back, fellow students, to another wonderful semester of Dekuranburu High School!” the familiar voice of Kendo called through the speakers. As a set of blue curtains opened at the front of the auditorium, and revealed the orange haired girl to the crowd of students. Setsuna playfully nudged Tetsutetsu’s arm upon Kendo’s reveal. He playfully pushed her away with a snicker. “As all of you know, I'm vice president Itsuka Kendo! Now Internship applications should be going out later this month, so make sure to be finding a place that matches your curriculum!” her voice rang out through the speakers aligning the stage. Most of the audience, Tetsutetsu included wore looks of ecstasy as she spoke.

“Whoa, she's so cute!” a girl remarked.

“Damn, I need to test my luck with her!” a boy gawked.

“Are you kidding? She's taken? By him?” another boy whined in disbelief.

“If she was dating me, everything would be better!” a girl complained.

“Can you even call that mutt a date?” a third girl joked.

“Wow, they really don't like you!” Setsuna whispered, looking over to her friend as he trembled while trying to remain focused on what Kendo was saying. Setsuna’s smile disappeared, realizing he was trying his best to ignore their jeering.

“Let’s just say I'm glad you're here,” he mumbled, flashing her a broken smile before focusing back on Kendo as she finished her announcement.

“Now to explain more on the situation, Class President Momo Yaoyorozu!” The crowd burst into a thunderous applause as Yaoyorozu made her way to the podium. Setsuna looked around confused by the large display of teenagers throwing such a commotion about one person. Kendo swapped places with her as the crowd began to settle down.

“God, what I'd give to be with her” the second girl from earlier added.

“As if she'd go with you!” her friend teased.

“Forget the orange girl! I WANT THAT ONE!” a boy remarked.

“I’d want both at once!” another boy drooled.

Setsuna groaned. “The hell’s wrong with these people?” she asked under her breath. Annoyed by all the overzealous catcalling from the audience. “Seriously, what a bunch of pigs!”

“It’s no use. There’s nothing you can do. Calling them out just gets you in trouble!” Tetsutetsu replied, clenching his fist. Setsuna watched him turn his head to the side in deep thought as she continued to listen to all the silent comments and cat calls.

“Remember the 3 steps of internship selection: Look, Think, Apply!” Yaoyorozu announced. “Always make sure to do your research, think about whether or not this experience is for you, and finally, apply with the proper doc—”

“SHUT UP AND DIVE IN THE TRASH WITH THE REST OF YOUR FAMILY!” a mechanical-esque voice suddenly jeered from the crowd, forcing the room to go silent. Its electronic tone echoed through several different spots in the audience, sounding almost extraterrestrial in a way.

Tetsutetsu looked up in shock from the sudden insult. Kendo perked up, alarmed. Yaoyorozu stopped her announcement to look around. The crowd sat silent in anticipation. So silent that you could hear a pin drop. Before breaking through the silence as they began to murmur.

“DO WE NEED THE THREE STEPS TO ASK YOU OUT TOO? OR DOES HAVING A FAMILY OF KILLERS MAKE IT SO YOU ONLY THIRST FOR OTHER KILLERS?” the voice called out again.

An orchestra of gasps and whispers continued to fill the room. Tetsutetsu growled under his breath by the gall of someone saying such a thing. Kendo scanned the audience in an attempt to make out the culprit. Yaoyorozu clenched her fists in frustration. She looked down at the podium before her, with her eyes shaded from sight.
“I’m not sure what you're referring to,” Yaoyorozu replied, straightening her back revealing an insulted glare to her faceless assailant “but you're being out of line, and I must ask you to refrain fro—”

“SHUT UP AND BAKE MORE COOKIES, MEGA MILK!”

“All right, creep! This isn’t a joke!” Kendo shouted. “What do—"

“WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE TALKING IN GENERAL AND NOT MAKING OUT WITH THE TRASH UP THERE WITH YOU, HUH?”

The whole auditorium was submerged in the sound of mumbling before it happened.

“THEY'RE RIGHT! WHAT MAKES THE GREAT GRANDDAUGHTER OF A KILLER SO MUCH BETTER THAN THE REST OF US?” A different voice, a female one this time called out.

“YEAH, SHE'S ALWAYS FLAUNTING AROUND LIKE SOME PERFECT LITTLE PRINCESS, ALWAYS WALKING OVER THE REST OF US!” a boy boomed with an echo.

“SHES TRASH! TRASH!” Another boy practically sang in an operatic vibrato.

Yaoyorozu took several steps back, her eyes widened with shock as the audience continued their uproar.

“H-hold on a second. that has nothing to do with anything that happens here. I don't know where all of this is coming from bu—” A shoe flew from the center of the audience, slamming itself point blank in the rich girl’s forehead. Almost falling backwards, she grabbed her head. “HONESTLY, WHATS GOTTEN INTO ALL OF YOU! IF YOU HAVE ISSUES WITH ME, TELL ME DIRECTLY! NOW WE NEED EVERYONE HERE TO—” Several more shoes launched themselves at her, one colliding with her stomach and the other two missing. She looked down at the crowd, her face adorned with a look of anger and humiliation as a bright red sore formed where she was hit. Kendo stood beside her in defense as the crowd began to chant.

“TRASH TRASH! TRASH! TRASH! TRASH! TRASH! TRASH! TRASH!”

“NOW, EVERYONE! TREAT HER LIKE THE GARBAGE SHE IS! SHE HAS STEPPED OVER YOU ENOUGH! TRASH HER!” the bizarre voice screamed in glee.

Then the unthinkable happened, a group of at least thirty students rose from their seat and made their way to the stage. Kendo yelled at them to be seated, but to no avail. They lifted Kendo above their heads before several of them threw her to the side, forcing her body to slam onto the hard, wooden floor. Tetsutetsu yelled out as he rose to his feet and attempted to slide through the aisles, but couldn't. Several of the still seated students stood up and formed a wall around him.

“WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING?” Tetsutetsu began to force his way through, before noticing something out the corner of his eye. Several other students faced the same situation. They attempted to help but those around them where piled into barriers holding them back.

The crowd continued to chant as the group on the stage lifted Yaoyorozu up over their heads. She whined and begged as they proceeded to make their way down the aisle. Kendo lay dazed and barely conscious from being thrown, unable to help her friend. As the helpless Momo was carried down the auditorium and out the door. Tetsutetsu continued his attempt to fight through the barrier of students, trying whatever he could to help, but stopped when he felt a hand place itself on his forearm and tug on him.
Tetsutetsu turned to find Setsuna looking down shaking. “What’s up?” he asked, noticing her expression as she looked up at him. Her eyes shone with sorrow as her free hand covered her mouth ashamed.

“Please… I’m sorry,” she answered under her breath.

Tetsutetsu hadn't seen Yaoyorozu or Tokage for the rest of the day. After apologizing, Tokage leapt from the seat and disappeared out the auditorium. When Tetsutetsu tried following her, he was stopped by the barricade of students once more.

As for Yaoyorozu, she was all over social media. Despite not having a Twitter or Instagram or whatever, Tetsutetsu saw almost everything. Yaoyorozu spent the whole day in constant torment by the sadistic army of apparently vengeful students. They started after carrying her out the auditorium, going through their school building. Cheering in victory before throwing Yaoyorozu inside a dumpster out behind the school, submerging her in rotting food and maggots followed by taking photos of the sobbing girl wallowing in the tarnished filth.

She had barely made it back to the school before being stopped by three larger boys she had turned down months before, who grabbed her by the shoulders and threw her in a puddle of mud for another group of kids with phones to capture the whole thing. Then, when she tried changing into her gym clothes, several girls had already raided her locker, stealing anything she could have used to wash up before dragging her into the showers, soaking her, before dumping chalk and other powders over her head, forcing Momo to spend the remainder of the day wet, filthy, and worn as other students continued to harass her with constant barrages of litter. The day became the worst of her life, six straight hours filled with non-stop teasing and other forms of malicious bullying from people who just that morning, said they admired her.

After Yaoyorozu was removed from the auditorium, most of the other kids making up the barriers had left to follow her. Tetsutetsu, now free from the prison of students, had then went up to the stage to check on his girlfriend, carrying her to the nurse.

The nurse sent Tetsutetsu to class. Yet no matter what he did, there was no way he could concentrate. Too much had happened. Leaving a pain in his stomach
“I honestly don't think Christopher Skyline is that good a choice for Pisces!” Miss Shino, Tetsutetsu’s literature teacher, stated, reading over one of her star students papers. “He is handsome and popular when it comes to acting in a action movie, but the guy that established peace for the entire world should not look like that!” she continued to read while twiddling a marker in her dominant hand. Clicking it open only to immediately click it shut. She repeated the process several times before setting down the page.
“Hate to say it, you're going to have to decline a lot of Internship requests!” she cheered, signing her name at the bottom of the page. “Congratulations, Tetsutetsu this is Shoowaysha worthy! I’ll make copies!”

She began to stand, only to stop when noticing Tetsutetsu’s expression. “What’s wrong? You should be proud of yourself!” she assured as Tetsutetsu turned away. “Is it about the assembly? I told Mr. Sensui we need teachers there for supervision purposes! You know if something's going on, you can talk to me, right?” Still no response. Shino sighed before smiling gently. “Why not go home early today? Don’t worry about the problems in the textbook. You've been working so hard, a break can't hurt,” she stated, blowing air out her nose.

“Are you sure?” Tetsutetsu asked, looking his teacher in the eyes.

“Why not? With three ribbons to your name its not like you’ll lose the ability to read a situation overnight, is it? Besides, I should probably help Mrs. Tomoko and the others with detention.”

“Thank you, ma’am!” Tetsutetsu blurted out, bowing before his teacher, who waved to him, setting the marker on her desk. Running out the door, he was surprisingly met by Hagakure standing there, about to open the classroom door, eyes wide with shock.

“OH, GOOD, YOU'RE OUT!” she cried to the confused boy leaning over her. She grabbed his arm, pulling him to the side, hiding in between a wall of a staircase and a vending machine. “We need to get to your house fast! Kendo and Yaoyorozu are already there!”

“Huh?”

“You’ve seen how those people have been treating Yaomomo,” Tooru replied. “We need to go now!”

Caution was key as the two made their way to Tetsutetsu’s house, making sure nobody was following them. Tooru had filled him in on why Yaoyorozu was being sheltered there. Tetsutetsu saw all the incidents on social media, but not once did he see Yaoyorozu in person. Apparently, nobody who genuinely wanted to help her did until eventually, Kendo and Tooru ended up at the right place at the right time, finding her getting soda poured on her by a group of attackers that ran as soon as the two showed up.

Afterwards, Kendo and Yaoyorozu got permission from a teacher to leave early after giving him a list of known attackers that he promised to hold behind for the day, but it was unknown if he’d actually be able to keep all of them. In the end, it was decided they needed to take her somewhere private. Somewhere no other student would go. The house of a person a lot of people didn’t like.

The two continued walking to their destination. The orange sky turned the sidewalk blue and the surrounding grass a mix of brown and purple. Their heels clicking on the concrete as they looked back every now and again, checking to make sure they weren't being followed. Unfortunately, they were.

“Don’t look behind you!” Tooru scolded. Tetsutetsu looked down to his side at the bandaged girl. “I’ll handle this. Lead me to Tokage’s house.” Tetsutetsu was even more confused now. Tokage’s house was in the complete opposite direction of where they were heading. “Just trust me. He'll get cocky sooner then later. Let me handle it.”

She was right. Their stalker began moving closer and closer. He was average height for his age. Moving cautiously, his appearance was hard to make out because of a hooded jacket shadowing his face. Out the corner of his eye, Tetsutetsu realized he occasionally pulled out his phone to snap pictures or text someone, he was definitely following them. Eventually, they reached the street where Tokage lived. The stalker had gotten to the point where he was no further than six feet away when Tetsutetsu felt his phone vibrate, he reached inside his pocket to grab it.

“Let me do the talking, just grab him and hold on. -Tooru” it read.

Without even a second’s hesitation, Tetsutetsu spun around and dashed towards the stalker. The boy failed to make his escape on time, as Tetsutetsu tackled him, wrapping his arms around the boy in an iron-like grip. Hagakure gave her friend a thumbs-up as she approached the squirming creep.

“L-LET ME GO! I DIDN'T DO ANYTHING!” he complained, only for his captor’s grip to tighten.

“Do you lot really have nothing better to do than team up and harass your fellow classmate?” Tooru asked, stopping a foot away from the boy, her bandaged arms crossed.
“I DON’T HAVE ANYTHING TO DO WITH THAT!” he cried.

“Then why follow us?” Tooru asked, pulling a knife out of nowhere and holding it up to his throat.

“WOAH, HAGAKURE!” Tetsutetsu gasped.

“Relax. It’s a nail file,” she replied. Lifting up the metal tool to show him. Before setting it back on her hostages throat.

“That still cuts!” the captured boy panicked. Unaware of how unlikely it would be.

“THEN DON’T TEST ME!” she threatened. “Why were you following us?”

“I WAS FORCED TO! SHE TOLD ME FOLLOWING YOU WOULD LEAD ME TO KENDO AND YAOYOROZU!”

“SO, YOU LIED!” Tooru barked. “WHO TOLD YOU TO DO THIS?”

“I DON'T KNOW HER NAME”

“TALK”

“IT WAS THE GIRL SITTING NEXT TO HIM AT THE ASSEMBLY!” He motioned to Tetsutetsu, who was still holding onto him.

“Tokage?” Tetsutetsu asked, unknowingly loosening his grip, allowing the boy to wiggle his way out. Pushing Hagakure away from him. “Wait, hold up!” Tetsutetsu grabbed the guy by his hoodie, only for it to come off as the boy ran, leaving him in a maroon sweater. He kept running down the sidewalk, swearing up a storm.

Tetsutetsu looked down the street at Setsuna's house. “He wasn't lying. I could tell.” He clenched his fist. “Let’s talk to Tokage.”

He began trudging across the sidewalk as Tooru followed close behind. Making their way to Tokage’s yard, they saw the windows of the house were darkened, almost as if nobody was home, except for the occasional flash of blue light that appeared every minute or two. It was jagged and dim. Looking around the yard, Tetsutetsu thought the house looked abandoned. No sign that her parents or even Tokage herself had been there a few days. The yard was filled with weeds, and the porch covered in cobwebs, despite just a week ago looking like new.

But the worst of it had to be the smell. The closer to the house they got, the more intolerable it was. A smell of mold, blood, and rot. Hagakure brought her hands to her face in disgust as Tetsutetsu made his way to the door, giving it a heavy knock. It opened on first contact, but nobody was there to answer.

The only thing they were met with was a hoard of bloody Setsuna’s cluttering the floor.

Almost like clones, roughly eight or nine of them in varying degrees of disarray. Some were full bodies. Others just torsos and heads. They sat sprawled out around the room with widened eyes. Stroking their hands across the walls and floor. They watched their surroundings, not seeming to be in pain, more as if they were in a trance of sorts. There were even some that were just singular body parts crawling along the floor like rats.

They all slowly turned to look at the pair at the door. Then, at the center of the room, a single Setsuna rose to her feet. She had a particularly menacing scowl and held a meat cleaver. Chunks of her body fell to the floor as she raised her weapon and held it upwards. Then, without warning, the doppelgangers advanced, a horde of mangled flesh shuffling toward them.

Chapter Text

Tetsutetsu's heart slammed itself against his chest as streams of sweat ran down his neck. With deep breaths, he watched as the slimy gang of Tokages slithered towards him and Tooru. The more put-together ones struggled the most. Their uncanny, jerky movements, almost snapping their bones as they crawled, attempting to make steady progress to the door. While those that were less than torsos at the time slid across the floor. Intestines and guts brushing against the solid floor. Blood splashed from their mouths and eyes, leaving a trail along the tile.

At the back of the group, the Setsuna gripping the hatchet stood still. Her partially-hidden face only revealing a mouth that was curved into a hideous grin. The hatchet loosely held by the tips of her fingers she watched the intruders. Tilting her head to the left, she let out a inhuman screech of agony and pleasure.

A shriek of pure feral energy.

Slamming the door just before the dismembered group of Setsunas could reach him, Tetsutetsu took off down the porch. His head spun as the orange sky appeared to go grey around him. Tooru’s screams from right beside him muffled by his own overwhelming sense of shock. He managed one final time to turn back to the house. Hordes of the Setsunas stood peering at them from the window, their faces blank of emotion, but with eyes that pierced through him. His heart pushing on his chest harder than ever as if attempting to shatter his rib cage.

“WHAT THE FUCK WAS THAT?!” Tooru screamed, her body shaking and her arms spazzing out.

“Let’s go to my house,” Tetsutetsu replied. “I don't want to know what happens if they get out!”

When the two made it back to Tetsutetsu's, the sky was dark and the moon glaring. The humid air made everything sticky, and the smell of moist grass overcame the rotting smell that had been lingering since they were at Setsuna’s house.

“Hey T.T. !” Kendo looked up from a jigsaw puzzle she was working on as she made her way over to give Tetsutetsu an excited hug. Noticing his shaken state, she paused and gave him a silent look of concern. Tooru pushed past her strolling to the kitchen. She ripped open the fridge and pulling out a carton of
milk. Chugging it quickly to lower her anxiety, her shaking body forced most of it to miss her mouth and soak her blouse.

“Where’s Yaoyorozu?” Tetsutetsu asked, leading Kendo back inside. Shutting the door behind him, he let go of her so he could peer through the peep hole, sighing in relief that nothing or nobody was following them. “Are my parents already at work?”

“Yeah, they already left. They gave us permission to stay the night and order pizza if we want,” Kendo answered. “Your mom washed the sheets for the spare futons in your grandma's old room.” She looked over to Hagakure, who was still chugging the milk. “Yaoyorozu is taking another shower. What happened to you two? Did the--"

“Hey, Tetsutetsu, is that you?” Setsuna asked as she stepped out of the hallway into the kitchen. Tooru spit out the milk she was drinking, throwing the carton to the side. Tetsutetsu moved” in front of Kendo, glaring at the green haired girl. Tooru backed herself into a corner, pointing the nail file at Setsuna ready to lunge at any moment.

“What’s gotten into you two?” Kendo asked, placing her hand on Tetsutetsu’s shoulder. He looked down at her turquoise eyes twitching in concern.

“What’s gotten into us? WHAT’S GOTTEN INTO HER?!” Tooru shrieked, nail file still fixed on Setsuna. “What the hell kind of horror show are you playing at your house?”

Setsuna raised her hands defensively above her head.

“My house?” Setsuna asked confused before going silent. Her eyes grew wide in shock. “Sh-She was…there? Y-You…s-saw…her?”

“Her?” Tetsutetsu asked, his voice breaking from the thought of the bloody Setsuna horde approaching him. “WE SAW THEM!”

Setsuna fell backwards. Her eyes went almost pale as she landed on the tile floor.

Yaoyorozu appeared from the hall in a set of Tetsutetsu's house clothes, a towel draped over her shoulder. She looked down at Setsuna sitting on the floor, hyperventilating. Then to Tooru, who had leapt onto the nearby counter, holding the nail file in front of her. Then finally to Kendo and Tetsutetsu, both watching her intensely, grabbing onto each other as if they had been wrestling.

After a minute to settle down, the five were finally able to sit in a circle and figure what was going on.

Kendo went first, telling Tetsutetsu that after the nurse sent him to class, she had set off to check if Yaoyorozu was ok.

“It took a few hours but I finally found her.” Kendo Informed “Or at least that’s what I thought. Turns out I must have just been seeing things, since when I approached her, Yaoyorozu just up and vanished."

“You saw right,” Yaoyorozu spoke up, rubbing a towel along her damp hair. Everyone watched her in confusion and curiosity as she twiddled her thumbs nervously. “I don't remember how I got into each situation. I just ended up there each time! The other students carried me to the dumpster, but those boys with the mud, and the girls with the soda. I dint approach them, or vice versa. They just appeared around me, like magic!”

“Ok, that is weird but can we quit beating around the bush and talk about her!” Tooru abruptly intervened, pointing at Setsuna. “I don’t have a concussion, and I know damn well what I saw!” She turned over to Tetsutetsu, “Right?”

“Yeah,” Tetsutetsu began, “but let’s start with this: Tokage? Why did you run from the assembly? And why did you apologize before?”

Setsuna sighed in shame. “So, you saw her?”

“Who? Who’se her? What did you two see to shake you up so much?” Kendo asked worriedly.

“Five years ago, I was in a bus accident. You’ve heard of the G-0 Sawyer incident, right?” Setsuna asked, looking around at her nodding cohorts. “Long story short, I ended up losing part of my hand.”

“You mean, like, part of your hand was legit not there?” Tooru asked.

“Yes! Half of my hand and a bit of my arm was completely gone. My parents took me to a hospital and the doctors patched the wound up. They told me they'd be able to make a prosthetic, but…” Setsuna looked down at her hand.

“Then after a few weeks, it just came back.”

“BULLSHIT! STOP LYING!” Tooru objected. “THAT DOESN'T HAPPEN!”

“What did you see in that house?” Setsuna argued. “If she's there like you said, then you have to believe me!” She glanced around at her audience with pleading eyes. “After the hand grew back my parents took me back to the doctor. They took a few tests and kept me over night. That’s when she first showed up: the other me.”

“I didn't know what to do at first. I thought I was imagining things. The doctors did too. She hid every time they came to check with me, so they said it was probably just shock and should disappear eventually. She seemed nice enough. A bit off, but nice. After a month, I left the hospital, and that’s when she became malicious. She started to follow me everywhere, and everywhere we went, she found something terrible to do. It started off small, the occasional simple prank. But each time she got more and more sadistic. Starting fires, killing animals, and even attacking people.”

At this point, Yaoyorozu had set her hand over Tooru’s mouth so she couldn't make any more comments. The bandaged girl giving her an annoyed glare.

“Why didn’t anyone stop her?” Yaoyorozu asked, staring nervously at Setsuna.

Tears formed in Setsuna's eyes, as she swallowed hard.

“She always ran off before they could,” Setsuna answered. “But that’s not all, you see, she made sure that nobody saw the two of us together, so everyone thought it was me doing all that stuff. That was until…” Setsuna began to sob. “The real reason I moved back here was because she killed my parents!”

Yaoyorozu’s hand fell from Tooru’s mouth, but it didn't matter because Hagakure wouldn’t dare make a sound. Kendo squeezed Tetsutetsu’s arm, her nails digging into his skin.

“They walked in on her attacking me one night so she killed them, and she made me watch.” Setsuna cried. “And I took the blame!”

“How were you able to move?” Tetsutetsu asked.

“That’s the thing.” Setsuna began whipping her face with her sleeve. “I was able to come here, to live in that house, because I'm supposed to keep this a secret. The agency is paying for it all. If I don't make a huge deal about it to the news or anything, they'll keep paying and let me live like normal.”

“The agency?” Kendo asked, looking over at Setsuna.

They’re supposedly peacekeepers that capture people who break the law, and then hide the evidence so people don’t find out about it,” Tetsutetsu answered. “They supposedly make it so society stays peaceful. The Shimanga Variety Hour talks about them constantly.”

“EXACTLY!” Setsuna perked up. “They’re supposed to be a myth, but they're real! After she killed my parents, they arrived. They captured both of us and took us in for testing. I was innocen—”

“WOAH, HOW MANY PICTURES DOES THIS GUY HAVE?!”

All eyes went to Hagakure who was scrolling through a phone intently. Setsuna sniffed as she wiped off her salty cheeks. Tetsutetsu sat up straight, gazing at Hagakure who turned the screen to him. Displayed was a picture of two students who he recognized: Ochako Uraraka and Tenya Iida appearing to walk side by side cheerfully discussing something, unaware of their picture being taken. Hagakure scrolled left to reveal Engineering student Mei Hatsume rubbing a towel across her head. Three more photos were shown, all candid pictures of students Tetsutetsu recognized as fellow classmates. All of different studies and courses.

Then one that really caught Tesutetsu’s eye. The screen displayed photo of himself sitting underneath a tree. With him was Kendo laughing cheerfully as her boyfriend shoved a pork bun in his mouth.

“Hagakure where did you find get these?” Tetsutetsu asked stoking his chin.

“It was in the jacket we got from the creep,” she replied, pulling the phone back. Yaoyorozu leaned over to get her own look at the pictures. “He's got one of almost everyone: Engineering, Biological Science, Mathematicians? God, this is a bad picture of me!” she whined, showing the group a picture of herself knelt down beside a vending machine.

“Hold on whose phone is this?” Kendo asked, ripping it from Tooru's hands. Setsuna leaned over to take her turn viewing the photos as Kendo scrolled through them.

“He's just some guy that was following me and Hagakure after school," Tetsutetsu answered. “He got away after…TOKAGE!” He screamed grabbing his friends arm. She looked up at him in confusion with her soaked red eyes. “He said you’re the one who told him to spy on me and Hagakure! So that must have been the evil you! But since we didn’t know that at the time were curious so we went to ask you about it. Only there were like eight on nine of them all butchered and sliced up, they were all the other you! And there was one that I guess was the ringleader controlling them. They went for us but stopped when I slammed the door in their faces."

Setsuna trembled, holding herself, as Yaoyorozu sat up straight, releasing a huge sigh. Beside her was Hagakure nodding in agreement. Beside Tetsutetsu was Kendo wearing a look of confusion and concern. Almost as if she didn't want to believe it, but knew there wasn't any reason for them to be lying.

“More?” Setsuna asked. “One wasn't bad enough?” She leapt to her feet and forced herself between Tooru and Yaoyorozu to pace in the empty kitchen. “IT WASN'T BAD ENOUGH SHE COMES OUT OF NOWHERE, GETS ME EXPELLED, KILLS MY PARENTS, COMES BACK AFTER ALL THESE MONTHS, FUCKS WITH MY FRIENDS, AND GETS SOME CREEP PERVERT OR WHATEVER TO TURN SOME RANDOM KIDS INTO FULL ON ASSHOLE MODE ON SOME GIRL I DON'T EVEN KNOW!”

“Eight? Maybe nine?” Setsuna asked herself, throwing a hand over her head. “These bastards said she was contained. Now there’s a gang of them! God, what a freaking sap I was! Does the bitch just live in every freaking hospital hoping I’ll show up? And it just waits for me to be admitted to ruin my life or something?”

THUNK THUNK THUNK! The room paused as everyone stood in anticipation. Then again: THUNK THUNK THUNK. Hagakure whipped out her nail file to defend herself, as Setsuna ran to accept Yaoyorozu’s offer of comfort. Kendo stayed with Tetsutetsu as they both slowly made their way to the door. THUNK THUNK THUNK It announced one final time as Tetsutetsu set his eye up to the peep hole.

He peered through the hole waiting for his eyes to dialate. A shape formed on the other side, a male figure. Tetsutetsu felt relieved as the figure was made out to be none other than jacket guy himself. He stood on the porch awkwardly eyeing across the street.

“It’s the creep from earlier,” Tetsutetsu called to the others. “How’d he find us?”

“Phone tracker?” Kendo suggested

“Makes sense” Tetsutetsu replied. “I don't see anyone else with him. What do you think we should do. Let him in?” He looked around at the nervous girls placed around the den. “He might have answers.” The girls nodded as Tetsutetsu peered once more across the room.

In a few swift movements Tetsutetsu swung the front door open, grabbed the boy by the collar of his shirt, and yanked him inside. Then, before anything could be said, he slammed him against the wall.

“PLEASE, I WASN'T SPYING OR ANYTHING! I JUST CAME TO GET MY PHONE BACK!” The boy shrieked. His shrill voice was aggravating, he looked around the room in fear, only for his expression to change into a perverse one. “Is this a sleepover?”

The group had gained another member, this one they weren't so content to be with. He told them how he had been at the hospital a few days before with a stomach cramp when Setsuna had been brought into the emergency room. He was “smitten with love” and chose to take more candid shots of her whenever he got the chance. Then about how one night she offered to become his girlfriend if he did one special task for her.

“So, the voice from the assembly were speakers planted by you?” Yaoyorozu asked, sneering at the guy. “And you did this because a pretty girl said she’d…”

“Let me take non-candid photos of her,” he answered slyly, nudging Tetsutetsu with his elbow. “She’s right here. Ask her why she had those recordings in the first place” he ordered pointing to Setsuna.

“Yeah, that wasn't me. You need glasses, bud,” Setsuna excused.

“Who even are you? And are you that desperate you’d start a riot at school?” Kendo asked, crossing her arms.

“My names Max Dyn, Engineering student,” Max announced before looking down in shame. “Things aren’t as easy after Togami was expelled, especially for guys like me. So, sure, I set up the speakers, but it’s not like I knew they be full of stuff like that! I thought they’d just be fart noises or so--"

“What does Togami have to do with anything?” Tetsutetsu spoke up. Kendo placed her hand on his shoulder.

“He has nothing to do with this!” Yaoyorozu replied. “Now then, we have too many problems going around and we need to solve them fast. There’s no need to hear anything else from this person, so let’s begin. I personally don't want to be thrown in a dumpster again tomorrow. So, here’s my proposal!”

“Do what?” Tooru asked, overloaded on information.

“We’re currently facing three issues at the moment, right? One: the speakers. Those obviously weren't ordinary recordings, right? So, we need to get into the school and take them down. When we get them here, we can take a better look. Two: The evil Tokage comes from hospitals, right? We need someone to go get information from there. Three: Tokage’s house is being run by mangled clones of herself. Someone should be keeping watch so they don’t get out! So, I plan that the six of us in teams of two go out to solve a problem as best we can and come back in an hour or two.

“Woah! Did you just come up with that on the spot?” Tetsutetsu gasped.

“She's class president for a reason,” Kendo commented.

“I’ve also devised teams that will work for each task!" Yaoyorozu continued, pulling a notebook and pen from her bag. “Team One: Tokage and I should go to the school. As class president, I have access codes that’ll get us in even this late at night.”

“Hey, wait, six of us?” Max whined. “I just came here for my jacket and phone!”

“Do you know what it feels like to have pudding in your sock?” Yaoyorozu glared at him. “As far as I'm concerned, everything that happened to me today is on you.” She snatched the phone from Hagakure and held it up. “For the next 2 to 3 hours, you'll do as I say or I will smash this under my heels. Do you understand?”

Max nodded, cowering-sheepishly. Yaoyorozu reached into her bag again, pulling out a labeled map of the auditorium.

“Fill this out where you put the cameras. If ones in the wrong place, or if I find one that’s not listed. Even if anyone from todays mob or the person who told you to do this shows up. I swear to god your phone will disintegrate, and I'll shove pudding down your socks myself!” Yaoyorozu threatened.

“Team two: Tetsutetsu and Kendo will go to the hospital.” Yaoyorozu’s tone shifting entirely. “The two of you have the most experience there aside from Tokage. We need information on the doctor who performed the surgery. If you let me see your phones, I’ll put an app for scanning documents on them. If we really are dealing with a murderer… then we’ll need to do all we can to get information. Are the two of you up to it?”

Kendo and Tetsutetsu glanced at one another before nodding in approval.

“That makes sense,” Kendo replied. “Leave it to us!

“Wait, shouldn’t I go there, or to my house?” Setsuna asked.

“We really can’t allow you to be captured or attacked. I feel that if the other you shows up at hospitals, then sending you there or to her hive is a huge risk. We can’t have you endangering yourself now,” Yaoyorozu answered.

“Alright, then all that’s left is Hagakure and Max,” she added, reaching into her bag a final time to find a pair of binoculars. “Hagakure, I want you to use these to watch Tokage's house. If what you said was in there is true…then you’ll need to keep your distance.”

“Wha-why do you have those?” Max blushed as his expression became lewd.

“Bird watching,” Yaoyorozu answered handing the binoculars to Hagakure. “Max, I want you to watch her back. If anything happens to her, your phone is dust.” She once more gave him that distinctive glare of disgust. “Now then, is anyone else peckish?”

Tetsutetsu placed his hand on his stomach. It had been hours since he had last eaten. Looking up he had noticed Similar expressions from the girls.

“I’ll see what we have to eat.” Tetsutetsu stated rising to his feet and making his way to the kitchen. Unaware it would be his last time doing so. Because at that exact moment, other forces were on the move.

“A few millennia ago it's said our planet was broken, separated by the sea. It was terrible. Paranoia invaded everyone’s hearts. Different climates meant different chances of survival. Blizzards, typhoons, volcanic eruptions. People prayed to their gods but to no avail. They were trapped in their own dangerous worlds while others were allowed beautiful kingdoms and forest ripe with food and drinks. No worries, no hunger. Not a single chance at all of it running out.

The ones on the hazardous Islands wanted the chance to enjoy these luxuries, but the sea is merciless and swallowed anyone hoping to leave their homes.

But then, one woman said no more. She was tired of having to suffer. So she raised her hands high, and like magic, the islands from all over began to come together. It was beautiful, the separate world becoming one, but not everyone saw it this way.

Culture and customs clashed. The paranoia overcame everyone. It was a slaughter. A war that everyone too part in. Kill those who aren’t you! But it was too much. The human race was dying. Another year of the constant slaughter and all would be gone! The mayhem needed to be stopped.

Then, he arose. Pisces. He stopped the war and formed 24 factions dedicated to the gathering of knowledge and mixed them together. Pisces knew intellect was power, and if people were too busy trying to find knowledge, then they would have no reason to kill anymore. But one of the 24 factions didn't like that.

A clan led by a brutal killer chose to defy Pisces’ gentle actions. He thought war and murder were human nature and the path to enlightenment was only suppressing that. Those were the morals this clan and their allies had come up with. But 1 vs 23 is hardly a fight. So, when the final bout began, it was over almost instantly.”

What does this have to do with anything, miss?” A tall, bald man asked, placing a toothpick in his mouth. He stood at the desk of Chitose Kizuki.

“It is a terribly abridged version, but what can you expect from a book written by a group of children. That’s right, ten pages written by a whole class of 12 year olds,” Chitose giggled, setting the poorly-made children’s book on her desk. “It was a contest we held ten or so years ago, and somehow, this is what won and was published. The wording’s strange, it lacks detail, and it’s obvious the difference in talents and style of the writing definitely hurt it. Shoowaysha has 2,294 different books discussing that subject in one way of another, but for some reason that’s the one I always bring myself to read.”

“You didn't answer my question, though.”

“Oh, yes yes yes, you and I are going to be taking a trip soon! Dekuranburu High School,” Chitose cheered, “You’re familiar with it, right?”

“Yeah."

“Good! Because the boss has an assignment for us!”

“An assignment from Byo?”

“Ding ding! Hope you're ready to do what you do best, Mr. Hojo!"

“So," Hojo grinned, revealing the toothpick lodged between his teeth, “who’s the target?”

“A descendent of an ally that served as a Chamberlain to that twenty-fourth leader. Her name: Yaoyorozu Momo. We’re leaving tonight!”

Chapter Text

Tetsutetsu shivered from the frigid October air tickling his face. A blinking streetlamp flashed at him as he stood in front of the hospital. He looked over at Kendo who had pulled out her phone to tell the rest of the group they had reached their destination. The letters clicking rhythmically with each word.

After a few seconds her screen lit up. Followed by an obnoxious air horn sound effect that echoed through the area. Kendo’s eyes went wide as she gripped her phone tight. Her cheeks turning bright red from embarrassment. Tetsutetsu stood silently, admiring how adorable she looked swearing under her breath, anxiously attempting to turn the notification off.

“Sorry about that,” She blushed, shoving the phone back into the pocket of her teal jeans. Kendo looked over at the hospital entrance to see the figures of two nurses smoking. Their faces shadowed as they faced away from the lit entranceway. Kendo scratched the side of her head, her hand stumbling upon the bandage covering her wound from the earlier assembly. “Oh I have an idea on how we can get in!” she cheered, wincing in pain as she tugged the bandage off.

“WAIT KENDO WHAT ARE YOU?” Tetsutetsu objected, grabbing at her hand.

“Shhh are you trying to wake up the whole hospital?” she scolded, revealing the violet bruise. “There’s going to be a receptionist right? We're going to need a reason to be there. And if our guy is good for head trauma, then I have an idea!” With a swift hand she flicked the bruise gasping in pain upon impact.

“Kendo!” Tetsutetsu cried, keeping his grip on her.

“Its okay, I’m just trying to aggravate it,” She gently reassured, as her eyes watering from the pain. “I’ll be ok, its just a bruise.”

“But Kendo!”

“Teleporting, evil clones, a house full of bloody bodies,” She began, her eyes focused on the ground. “I was a second away from calling all of you nuts. It all sounds crazy right? But then I saw your face, and Tooru’s, and Tokage’s! And…it made me think of…that whole incident with Togami.”

Tetsutetsu looked on as she flicked her bruise again, this time with all the strength her fingers could muster.

“I was useless during that,” She cried out, with one final impact the skin broke. Small drops of blood began crawling down her forehead. “I don’t want to take that chance, sitting around ignorant while people who need my help suffer.

“Kendo,” Tetsutetsu gasped, gazing at her.

“Never again,” She sighed, giving him a smile.

Pulling a handkerchief from her back pocket, Kendo gently dabbed the cloth on her forehead. Soaking up the blood, while also dirtying it to give off the effect of urgency. After agreeing on a story they made their way inside.

“Oh sweetie that looks terrible,” the elderly receptionist stated, inspecting Kendo’s forehead. “I’ll get you a nurse to take you to a room and get that cleared up.”

“A-ACTUALLY we’re already here to see a certain one! He was worried about the wounds development, so he wanted to check it again. Is he here?” Kendo asked, wincing from her Injured forehead. “He's the tissue regeneration doctor, or something?”

“Oh,” the receptionist replied, her tone completely shifted into one of agitation. “You mean Dr. Ujiko?” she grumbled, side eying a group photo of all the doctors.

“Is he a mean guy?” Tetsutetsu asked concerned.

“He's not nice. If you ask me he comes off as some kind of murderer, always in the morgue studying a bunch of hullabaloo. Talking to himself. Who asks to have their office in an abandoned morgue area?” The Receptionist complained, tapping her fingers against the desk. Only to instantly realize she still had the injured Kendo to take care of.

“Anyway I'll get a map to the office, he’s probably at lunch so you might need to wait a bit. If that’s alright?” she asked, looking through a file cabinet and pulling out a map.

Kendo rewrapped her forehead as the two departed, making their way to the abandoned morgue, being sure to look out for anyone who might have recognized them. Or worse, the Setsuna clones.

Finally making it there, they were immediately hit with the sanitary smell of soap and disinfectants. The room was dimly lit by a small green exit sign hanging above their heads. But it was still bright enough that they were able to make out the offices layout. It’s black and white tile floor was stained with unknown dried fluids. It was a big, but with very little furniture. Only a desk on the far wall sitting beside a filing cabinet. On the adjacent wall was a huge wooden wardrobe. On the other side of which was two vertical rows of eight body drawers. And finally in the center of the room was metal table, underneath which was a brown-stained drain on the floor. A particular table used for embalming corpses.

“Alright lets start looking for documents,” Tetsutetsu whispered. The two got to work searching the room for any sign of the other Setsuna’s, or the procedure that caused them. Kendo carefully shuffled though the papers on his desk. While Tetsutetsu made his way to the filing cabinet beside it.

“This is locked!”

“Hang on a second,” Kendo whispered, searched the desk drawers, then noticing a set of keys on a clipboard over the computer. “Here you go!”

She handed them over to Tetsutetsu, giving him access to the files. They were nothing but documents on common diseases arranged by dates. Tetsutetsu wasn’t a medical student, but was still able to deduce that they were based of the dates each disease first appeared.

“Why does he have all of these? Even I know about this stuff?” Tetsutetsu asked himself, until suddenly a loud noise rang from down the hall. Anxiously Kendo looked in the direction of the sound before swiftly running over to Tetsutetsu snatching his wrist. After a brief glance around the room her eyes locked onto the nearby wardrobe. Pulling it open, it was full of little sneakers hanging along the walls by shoelaces. Kendo hopped inside and pulled Tetsutetsu in with her. And then swiftly closed themselves in, albeit for a small crack.

After a few seconds a stubby man entered the morgue. He had a bushy mustache and glasses. In his right hand was a bag of what looked to be some form of takeout. He peered around the room, inspecting every detail. Then he noticed it, just as Tetsutetsu and Kendo did too. The file cabinet Tetsutetsu had been looking through was left open.
The doctor set the bag of food on the desk, kneeling down besides the cabinet, sliding it shut.

“Amateurs, close the damn cabinet if you’re going to use my files!” he groaned, taking the key from the lock and placing it in his shirt pocket. Heading to the desk he opened the sack. Pulling out a Styrofoam container he took it over to the body drawers. Grabbing the far right handle of one, he spun it 360 degrees four times pulling it towards him. Opening up a hidden door made up of the other doors.

“Johnny? Here boy!” he called out, clicking his tongue. A tiny squeal came from down the hall as a small set of footsteps approached the man. “That’s right Johnny, good boy,” the man cooed, setting the takeout container on the floor. Both teens in the cupboard watched as a small animal silhouette approached the container grabbing the corner of it with it’s mouth and dragging it away.

“A dog?” Tetsutetsu asked himself, listening to the thing eat. The sounds of it munching and slurping made him feel weak in his stomach as the doctor continued to watch on.

“Hurry up my boy, big sister will be here to see me soon.” The doctor told the mysterious animal. “That’s right, big sister is here! The stupid nurse told me she was here to see me, and she brought you a big brother!”

“Big sister?” Tetsutetsu asked.

“The nurse must have told him we were here!” Kendo answered.

“Where are you?” the doctor called out.

Tetsutetsu and Kendo froze from his sudden question. Did he know they were there?

“You heard me? Where are you?” he asked again, walking into the room closing the secret door behind him.

The couple remained still. Not daring to make a sound. They waited for what felt like thirty minutes before the door swung open once more, and the doctor stepped out. Holding the now empty food container in one hand, and held a phone up to his ear in the other. He hung up the phone and placed it in his pocket. Turning to shut the door he spun the same handle as earlier four times in the opposite direction. Letting out a sigh of annoyance he tossed the container into the bin.

“Who did she send here? Why would you send random people here huh?” he grumbled, walking away.

Tetsutetsu and Kendo listened as his footprints disappeared down the outside hallway, before busting out of the cupboard.

“Do you want to go, or check out what’s in there?” Tetsutetsu asked.

Kendo was already making her way to the secret door. Spinning the handle like the doctor had done. Feeling the tumblers shift unlocking the heavy metal threshold. With a powerful tug she opened it.

This room was somehow darker than the previous one. The green lights of the morgue were replaced by a single red one of no clear origin. Its glow being only a tad efficient when dealing with the abyss of shadows facing in front of them. A long-darkened corridor that stretched into an endless void.

“If there’s like a secret torture party or something we're leaving,” Tetsutetsu joked, reaching out his hand for Kendo’s. Gladly accepting his offer Kendo interlocked her fingers with his. Using the flashlight on her phone she shone a light down the hall only to find it didn’t make any difference.

Making their way down the path, they surprisingly only had to walk a few feet until sudden beams of blinding blue light assaulted their pupils as ten computers came to life at once. Each displaying their own out of sync loading screen.

When their eyes dilated the pair noticed they were now in the center of the circular room. The desktop computers were organized in three rows of three, with a giant one on top. On both far sides of the room were two cells both shadowed, but appeared to have someone inside.

The large screen on top finished loading displaying a video image. With the others following shortly after. A woman with dark skin and snow-white hair was shown sitting on a bed in a green hospital gown. The audio was muted but she seemed to be saying something excitedly to the camera man before the picture faded. Then a new image was shown. This one of her unconsciously lying on the bed, her entire body was covered in bandages. A plate of surgical tools covered in blood sat next to her. Emerging from the corner of the screen a petite hand placed itself on her forehead. Gently stroking it for a few seconds. Until her eyes flashed open, shining bright red before the camera went out again.

“Little brother is that you?” a voice sang, from the cell to the left. “You know you're not supposed to be here!” The two intruders stopped focusing on the screen to approach the voice coming from the cage. “Oh? Not little brother? Who’re you huh? One of the TV people?”

“Who are you?” Tetsutetsu asked, peering through the bars trying to get a good look at the prisoner.

“Wait T.T. how do we know they aren't…evil?” Kendo asked, pulling him back towards her.

“You're watching the movie with the sound off? That’s no good! SOUND ON!” The voice cried out. Hearing this the two were able to recognize the voice belonged to a young woman. Playful, but not sinister. She giggled as sounds from the computer turned on.

“Specimen nine: ‘Red Eyes' has begun to show signs of unnecessary aggression, despite it's unquestionable loyalty to Byo.” The voice of Ujiko informed. “But only to Byo. Unlike the others before it, Red Eyes isn't obedient to me at all. I figured it was due to the dominant host: Rumi Usagiyama’s, personal hatred of me that she’s been building up over the past month of experimentation. But according to Byo its because the subject only respects those who are strong.”

Nightmarish images were displayed on the screen accompanying the narration. The beautiful woman from just moments earlier had become nothing less than a monster. She was now larger and disjointed. Equipped with four arms, she leaped and crawled along walls to rip and tear through countless bodies of uniformed men and women. Leaving holes and tears in their abdomens with little effort.

She stopped and snatched a person by the arm crushing their bicep in her clawed hand, as they screamed in agony. It continued it's assault, tearing the arm off as it were made of paper mache. Viciously striking the tendon into it’s owner, splattering them against a nearby wall. Then without hesitation she leapt at another one ripping them in half at the torso with an eruption of intestines and stomach acids. Flipping and impaling the shard of spinal chord emerging from the top half into another victim's windpipe.
Kendo turned away from the screen in disgust as Tetsutetsu tried holding in his vomit from the terrible display.

“Isn’t it awful?” The voice asked calmly. “She’s such a mess!”

“If it wasn't for her need to rebel for whatever reason, she'd be a perfect tool for the cause,” The narration continued. “Lucky for us we've recently gotten some progress on the latest developments on our compliance machine.”

“SOUND OFF!” The voice yelled, muting the screen. “That ones little brothers favorite! But Red Eyes is such meanie, doesn't want to play, only wants to kill. I bet she tastes awful!”

Tetsutetsu panted, looking down at Kendo. Her eyes were wider than ever as she shook from shock at the horrible sight.

“Can…can the…are the Setsunas capable of this?” Kendo asked, falling to her knees.

“Oh? You’ve seen Setsuna Tokage? She was here for a bit,” the voice informed, letting out a sigh. “She was so sleepy, but they all are, doctor makes sure of that.”

“Tokage was here?” Tetsutetsu asked, looking up at the cage. “What did he do to her?”

“Ugh everyone talks about Setsuna: Doctor, little brother, the TV people? Even the other Setsuna’s want to talk about Setsuna!” The voice bawled, slamming her hands against the bars. As she said this a noise rang from the back, and footsteps approached. “Uh oh! Doctors here, quick get inside!” Suddenly the hands from inside the cage grabbed the bars and stretched them to make an opening.

Tetsutetsu hesitated before Kendo lead him inside. Bypassing the stretchy bars the girl held open. After they made it inside she let go allowing the bars to reform to their normal shape.

“What choice did we have?” Kendo asked, still holding on to him. Watching their obscured cellmate closely, they backed up against the cold cell wall. As the shaded girl wrapped herself in a blanket on a cot laying down and pretending to be asleep.

“Stay quiet till he leaves, he wont bug me if I’m sleeping.”

The doctor came into view with another man. This one bald, with a toothpick in his mouth, and wearing a fitted purple suit. They approached the computers, with the doctor typing something into the top left one.

“Damn its like something out of a horror movie,” The bald man stated, watching the remaining screens still displaying Red Eye's assault. It now showed footage of a person wearing an old fashion diving suit. Holding out their hands to spray a foamy substance into the mouth of a helpless victim. The poor man struggled to escape before slowly choking on the stuff.

“HA HA HA! That’s a good way of Putting it my friend,” the doctor chuckled, sitting down inside a chair beside the computer. “A horror movie, where monsters are free to kill as they like. And the spectators watch on in glee!” He continued typing as the bald man watched on.

Immediately without warning a loud unearthly screeching came from the other cell as two glowing eyes beamed from inside. in an instance a large-jet black mass slammed into the bars of the prison. Then again, and again. Over and over the monster furiously forced its body against the walls of the cell.

“Temper temper! Those bars are Tungsten, there’s no breaking them!” the doctor joked, watching the creature try in vain to free itself.

With a hearty roar it jabbed the bars once more with all of it’s might but to no use.

“But, we don’t need you hurting yourself now,” he mumbled, pulling a large flashlight out of the desk. Without hesitation he pointed it at the cage flicking it on, releasing a surprisingly tremendous amount of light at the mass revealing its appearance for a split second. A formation of shadows merged into a singular being that screeched in pain as the light touched it. Smoke rose from its skin as the light singed it. Letting out one final desperate call, the monster fell on it’s back just as the doctor turned off the flashlight.
“Kind of a sad weakness for such a thing,” The bald man jeered, chewing on the toothpick.

“And a pickax isn't diamond boy?” The doctor said, setting the light down. “Trust me in a dark forest or abandoned building, he's an absolute beast. Want to see that footage?”

“OHOHO? I'm afraid we're short on time, Mr. Hojo and me need to be getting some sleep before tomorrow,” A voice echoed from thin air. Right in front of Kendo and Tetsutetsu’s cell two figures rose from the ground. Only to have one of them instantly slide back inside. “Doctor Ujiko I presume?”

“Yes, Miss Kizuki, it’s so nice to finally meet you in person!” Ujiko replied, rolling his chair over to the recent arrival to shake her hand. “The call will begin shortly, if you don't mind waiting a second.”

“Oh not at all doctor, Byo has never been good with timeliness,” Chitose replied, looking around the room.

Once more the fiend in the adjacent cage cried out hurling itself into the bars, much weaker this time. It exhaustedly stumbled around, before making a final sad impact on it’s side.

“It never learns,” Ujiko sighed, wrapping his hands once more around the handle of the flashlight pointing it at the atrocity.

“Hang on doctor, allow me!” Hojo intervened, holding his hand out in front of the older man. He paced over to the cage waiting patiently until the mass charged at him once more. Before it could make impact he snatched it by the neck swinging his free hand backwards as some sort of jagged growth formed on his knuckles, then forcefully brought it down on the monster’s head. He did this several more times before tossing it to the back part of the cell. “You see doctor, if you really want something to learn, you can't keep using the same techniques. The damn thing will get used to it,” He said, as the bumps on his hand flattened out. “My dad learned that the hard way.”

Chitose giggled, as Ujiko readjusted his glasses.

“What about this one?” Hojo asked, standing next to Chitose motioning to the cell Tetsutetsu and Kendo were hiding in. The two tried backing themselves more against the wall as he approached sneering through the bars in a attempting to sneak a peek of whomever inhabited it.

“Oh, Mr. Hojo leave that one alone please,” Ujiko pleaded, typing in something into the computer. “She’s finally asleep for once, and when she's awake she wont shut up!” He said forcing Hojo to turn around and look back to the screens. “Besides, Its time to talk to Byo!”

With a chime four of the screens changed to reveal several different people. Sitting calmly, waiting to discuss matters. The one on the top center portrayed a girl that looked to be in her late teens early twenties. She had lavender hair and distinct eyelashes. Not as distinct at Tetsutetsu’s but enough to make them noticeable at first glance. Especially since they were accompanied by a dark shade of green eyeliner. Her face displayed a look of annoyance as she glared at the other people. Straightening her blue tie she sneered.

The second had a man wearing a helmet that completely hid his entire head. It was a glowing silver color, with no distinct openings to see through. Causing the face of it to reflect whatever was standing ahead of him. In this case a reflection of a computer screen mirroring the ten screens. He remained completely still. His equally silver outfit was adorned with bulky shoulder pads that appeared to make movement difficult, if not impossible.

The third had a woman with tanned skin, and blond hair in a bob cut. Around her neck was a red boa that shifted as she moved. Stroking a leopard print blouse. Her face adorned with green veins that glared-angrily through her skin giving it a green tint. That mixed with her crazed glare made for an intimidating appearance.

The fourth screen had a man sitting casually in a red armchair, his hands were covered in a thick fur with grizzled talons that tapped the arms of the chair repeatedly. His upper body was cut off from the camera.

One final purple screen appeared, this one with yellow letters that read: “VOICE ONLY”.

“Welcome everyone, it's my pleasure to begin our latest business meeting!” Chitose cheered, standing at the center of the room facing the screen. “I see our dear Curator has chosen not to join us huh? I thought it was made clear we were discussing ‘The Reconditioned’ tonight?”

“The Curator isn’t the only one, and there are others here that don't belong,” The man in the mask butted in, his scratchy voice echoing from the accessory. “Zero King, and Onii-san think they can skip out on this?”

“HOLD YOUR TOUNG JUMPING SPIDER!” The girl with lavender hair spoke up, as she leaned to the left to reveal a man with obnoxiously long hair typing on a computer without paying attention. “Onii-san is doing special work for Byo at the moment, he doesn't have time to hear your dulcet tones. Beside I am just as capable of delivering what was promised!”

“And does Zero King ever actually add anything to the conversation?” The obscured man asked in a gruff booming voice.

“They have a point…Jum-PING SPIDER!” Chitose reeled, grabbing at her sides screaming with laughter. “Oh my god I cant say your name with a straight face! I’m sorry,” She continued to laugh, before catching her composure. Jumping Spider clenched his fists in frustration upon hearing this.

“Anyway using Feel Good Inc.’s genius data collection skills, and Byo's eyes for talent. We've been able to narrow it down to about fifty students attending Dekuranburu High School, worthwhile the for the cause,” She informed. As she said this, the screen shifted to show ten ID photos of students currently attending Dekuranburu. Noteworthy ones included: Third year student Amajiki Tamaki, Aoyama Yuuga, even Hagakure who was mid sneeze in her photo.

A few seconds passed and the screen changed to show ten more, then again, and again. This one catching Kendo’s attention, as the third student on the bottom row was Tetsutetsu. He was wearing a calm smile, but his bushy eyelashes reflected the flash of the camera. Before shifting to the next set of images. Tetsutetsu looked on worried as Kendo tightened her grip on his hand.

“These fifty, after the procedure, will be perfect candidates for becoming Reconditioned,” Chitose informed, before the screen shifted to a picture of Tokage next to one of Yaoyorozu. “The one on the left is Setsuna Tokage. She's the one we were telling you all about last time we met. Ujiko here has been using her for a special project. If it ends up working, she can be used to advance the strength and stamina of The Reconditioned. We came close a few months back by actually using her acquired ability while unconscious for something we call the Starfish effect. Allowing dismembered parts of her body to regrow into actual living- breathing-thinking-copies of Miss Tokage herself. But we've been met with an issue, you see the copies are nowhere near the same…‘quality’. It turns out the copies of another copy tend to be weaker both physically and mentally. So if we're going to make our, lets call it a farm, work. Then we need the original.”

“The other one is Momo Yaoyorozu,” She switched the subject. “693rd child of the Yaoyorozu line, and student body president of the first years. She's incredibly intelligent, but according to ability reports she’s always been ‘emotionally fragile’. Using our spy, we were able to plant special tapes that were used to control ninety percent of the first year students. And they practically spent the entire day mining away at her mentality. Another day like this…and she’ll become putty in our hands.”

“Why not just swipe her like we did with the other Reconditioned?” The hairy man asked impatiently.

“It’s simple,” The lavender haired woman spoke up. “She’ll need free thought to access her abilities, this requires a different form of manipulation than just brainwashing.”

“Indeed,” Chitose praised, “Byo’s prediction has said if we’re to use this girl we need to-"

Just as Chitose said this a loud air horn sound effect filled the circular room. Kendo went pail realizing the noise had come from the pockets of her teal jeans. Tetsutetsu held his breath as he looked up to see all heads were turned to their direction. Both on the screens, and in person. Even the haunting eyes of the beast in the neighboring cage were fixed on them. The two went still as Hojo slowly began making his way to the bars until being forced to a stop by Ujiko.

“Johnny?” The doctor asked, squinting his eyes. “Is that you Johnny?” There was a beat as Tetsutetsu felt something pushing between his and Kendo's legs. They both looked down to see sliding between their thighs was the small creature from earlier. No bigger than a small dog it had a beak like mouth and bulgy eyes only supported by a single pair of legs wearing a red sneakers.

Kendo’s eyes widened and clenched her teeth, as she and Tetsutetsu jumped backwards out of shock from the strange-animal brushing up against them. As it approached the bars it slid its beak like nose through and contorted the remaining parts of its scrawny body through. Presenting himself on the other side of the cell to his guests.
“Where did it come from, we’re up against a wall.?” Tetsutetsu thought to himself.

“There you are Johnny my boy, were you bothering your sister?” Ujiko asked, holding out his hands to catch the bipedal beast as it leaped into his lap. Now in the light Tetsutetsu was able to notice the small monster was covered in uncanny dark cracks around his mouth, and face. As well of several of its teeth, that were either missing or melted by unknown means. “Did you eat a cellphone Johnny?”

“Honestly not the best diet for a baby boy,” Chitose whispered, smiling at Johnny who was now being stroked by the doctor. “Anyway Yaoyorozu and Tokage are the main targets but we’re also in need of someone to help capture the other fifty. So I’m bringing the rest of my group to help gather the rest of the students. Two of them combined are practically unstoppable. And the third is a genius in hand to hand combat. Feel Good Inc. will be in charge of altering camera footage. My H.R. representative can remove the faculty. But that brings us to our final step, the complete destruction of Dekuranburu High.”

“Leave that to me,” An electrical voice stated calmly.

“Byo?” Chitose asked confused.

“Trust me Chitose,” the voice answered, before the purple screen went blank.

“We're transferring the information to your hotel room as we speak,” The lavender haired woman spoke up, also switching off. The three others proceeded to do so as well. “I’d say that went well,” Chitose cheered, popping her fingers. “Lets be going Hojo, I want to inform the others.” Tapping her heel on the ground several times the silhouette from earlier rose up from the floor. “Good luck doctor, take better care of your child. It’s something you honestly doesn't want to lose.”

As the three sunk into the tiles Ujiko set Johnny down disgruntled. Sliding himself to the computer.

“You know, I’m kind of tired of being in here,” The shadowed girl growled, suddenly appearing right beside Tetsutetsu who in return almost leaped out of his skin. “Don’t be scared, I’m your friend now Mr. Special one!” She looked over at Ujiko who was still watching his computer, not hearing what was being said. “He tells us he’s smart, but that doesn't mean he's rational! Follow along and we'll get out of here friends!”

Tetsutetu looked over to Kendo who nodded in agreement with the mysterious girl.

“You're right, what do we do?” Tetsutetsu asked, accepting his new mysterious helper.

“You look strong, hit him against the bars when he reaches in, ok?”

“Ok.”

“Doctor? What're you doing with lil brother?” She asked, leaning onto the bars, rubbing her hands against them.

“Oh god, SHUT UP FOR ONCE!” Ujiko complained, scratching his eyebrow.

“Those people? Did you notice how they looked at you? All those expectations for a guy who can’t even keep little brother from going into my cage?” She taunted, backing away from the bars. Ujiko paused. He rose to his feet and reached underneath the desk. “Did you hear her? ‘Not a good diet for a baby boy!’ And I don’t blame him for eating phones! I’m telling you Pizza and Noodles aren't working out, I was almost tempted to devour the little guy today.” Ujiko pulled a stick out from a secret compartment in his desk, pressing a button the tip awoke with quick and eerie bolts of electricity. “But what would I need to do that for when I'm sure I could get out at anytime I want.” He now stood right outside the bars, starring menacingly at the shadowed girl. “It’s not like you could stop me!”

Upon hearing this the doctor shoved his arm holding the taser stick trough the bars attempting to reach his target but fell short. Taking this as his cue Tetsutetsu grabbed the doctor by the wrist and with all his might yanked him forward, ramming the man into the now stiffened bars. The doctor grunted upon impact dropping his weapon. Kendo lunged for the taser stick. Grabbing it before zapping him on the leg forcing the man to groan in pain.

Without warning the shadowed figure leapt in the air kicking the two away grabbing hold of the doctors arm. Taking a second to taunt the man she opened her mouth revealing two rows of large-unnaturally-jagged teeth. Then bit down on the doctor’s forearm. The man screeched in agony and she continued chewing on the flesh. Ripping and tearing at the fatty meat till all that was left was a peek of the doctors blood stained bone. The sticky-red blood splashed and dripped along the floor. She beamed a grin at the man wrapping her mouth around the remaining bone. And with a distinct CRUNCH that echoed throughout the room she bit his arm off. Ujiko let out a shriek of misery as his arm was completely severed from the rest of him. Grabbing at the stump as even more splashes of the sludgy crimson gunk fell through his fingers.

Tapping the bars with one hand the girl motioned to kendo to tug on them. Kendo obliged, being way too intimidated to argue. She stretched a now flexible bar to the side creating an entrance for Tetsutetsu and the shadowed girl to exit through. Tetsutetsu shoved Ujiko to the floor while holding open the bars so Kendo could get through. Grabbing Tetsutetsu by the hand they began making a run for the door only to be grabbed by the shadowed figure.

Shoving the remains of the Doctor's hand inside her mouth she lead the two to a hatch on the ground. Tearing it open she looked up to them.

“Down here will lead you out,” She promised. They watched each other cautiously before gazing back at their companion. “Don’t let them hurt anyone else,” She requested, her voice actually sounding tender this time.

Tetsutetsu lead Kendo forward, covering her as she climbed down the ladder to the depths below. Before he was able to begin his own decent the other girl heled her hand against his chest handing him a folded up sheet of paper in the process.

“Someone who can help,” she informed, placing it in his hand.

“Who are they?”

“Don't know, but they made the bars like that, so they probably know things…friend!”

“What are you going to do?”

“I need to save little brother! But you two need to get out, don’t let them hurt all of those people!

“Thank you!” Tetsutetsu said beginning to climb down. He looked up at his savior one last time as she started closing the hatch behind him.

The metal door had almost completely shut when a blue light ignited from the side giving Tetsutetsu his first full view of his hero. A small petite girl with long unkempt bangs. But her most distinguishing feature was her eyes, the pupils were brown with light yellow X’s that went wide as she was zapped by the taser stick. Letting out a scream as she began to cry.

“WAIT NO!” Tetsutetsu called out, launching himself up out of the hatch pushing her out of the way. It didn't help him though, as Ujiko in return lunged his weapon at Tetsutetsu. The blue light burned the teenager, as only the thin veil of his shirt was between him and the glaring weapon tip. The pain stinging his flesh making all the other parts of him go numb.

Tetsutetsu glared at Ujiko who was grinning like the madman he was. Unkempt yellow teeth that crept through his mustache. His glasses were now shattered on the left side. Blood from the shattered glass scraping at his eye socket streamed down his face. And then he let out another scream.

Tetsutetsu looked down to see the girl was now biting Ujiko’s ankle in a meaningful attempt to save her friend. Ujiko kicked her off of him, removing the taser from Tetsutetsu’s side in the process. Relieving the boy from the pain, but he still couldn't feel his body. His foot slipped and he fell down the tunnel.

Everything went blank followed by a slight impact, followed by another, Before finally hitting the ground with a thud. His body was numb so he felt no pain, just intense force that nearly knocked the wind out of him. The room spun as he saw Kendo run up and kneel beside him. Desperately calling out his name. He could only watch as the hatch shut above him. With no clear answer of who was the winner.

Chapter Text

“TETSUTETSU!” A voice rang in his ears, as Tetsutetsu lay dazed from the fall. The room spun with each sprained breath he could muster after having the wind knocked out of him.

“TETSUTETSU!” It screamed again revealing itself to be Kendo, as she ran up to kneel beside her boyfriend. He watched paralyzed as both her and the rest of his surroundings were consumed in a dark-hazy fog as he lost consciousness. Leaving him only able listen, as she cried out for him one last time. “TETSUTETSU!”

April, one year ago.

“Tetsutetsu?” A much calmer Kendo asked, waving her hand over his face. Regaining focus, he looked up to the orange haired girl trying to get his attention. “You are Tetsutetsu Tetsutetsu, right?” She asked, showing him detention papers with his name on them.

“Yeah, my bad!” He answered, taking them from her. “I guess I’m still a bit out of it from earlier.”

“Yeah? Well getting in a fight can do that to you. Fill out the form and give it to me when you're done ok?” Kendo ordered, sitting down in a chair and began flipping through a magazine. “You're free to go when you finish.”

It was only the first day of school, and Tetsutetsu had gotten into a fight. Albeit “fight” isn't a good word for it. He had been in the library reading up on ‘Gyoko the Prophet’s Eulogy’ when five other students surrounded him. Being in the library’s ‘private study’ section, no librarians were there to help when the largest of the students grabbed him by his hair and slammed his head onto the desk.

Blood spilled onto the pages of the book as Tetsutetsu let out a moan. Being tossed to the side. His arms and face drifted along the rough carpet.

Without allowing his victim a chance to recover, the boy continued to wail on Tetsutetsu. Aging him on to fight back. His four companions pulled out lights and video cameras, making a spectacle of the whole thing. Even bystanders that were already in the library had gathered to watch, pulling out their phones to record the display.

Tetsutetsu called out for help before a powerful jab to the gut cut him off, forcing him to choke on his saliva. With a roar the pugilist released multiple blows to Tetsutetsu's face. The speed of his punches on par with that of a professional boxer. The flashing lights, and people yelling acted as a sensory overload to adjoin the pain of the rapid-fire attacks from the bully.

“What’s wrong with you people?” Tetsutetsu thought to himself, getting lightheaded. “Why won’t someone help me? A teacher, janitor, anyone?” He finally managed to shield his face with his arms, blocking most of the blows. The ruffian became hesitant, slowing his jabs as he cautiously attempted to fight around Tetsutetsu's barricade. Giving his victim a clear look at his face. But instead of the face of a vile snake of a boy, enjoying the suffering he was delivering. The attacker looked somewhat distraught.

Finally, not being able to take it any longer, Tetsutetsu reeled his fist back before launching it into the brute’s nose. The punch easily threw him into one of the girls holding a camera, knocking them both backwards onto the ground. The camera being crushed under the assailant's weight.

Tetsutetsu’s victory didn't last long though, not even ten minutes had passed before he was blamed for the incident. And after a long scolding, was given detention for the next three days.

Finishing the paperwork, he handed it to Kendo. Taking her turquoise eyes off her magazine she gave him a glare of disappointment. Waiting a few seconds before she took the papers with a nod.

“Alright Tetsutetsu, you're free to go,” she informed, looking back at her magazine, “Same time tomorrow.”

“That’s it?” Tetsutetsu asked, staying still. “I thought I was supposed to be here an hour each day.”

“Yeah, well the disciplinary committee tells me that you only need to fill out the form. So, see you tomorrow!”

Confused, Tetsutetsu began making his way to the door.

“Unless you'd rather stay of course,” Kendo added, right when Tetsutetsu grabbed the handle. “I wouldn't mind hearing what actually happened.”

Tetsutetsu sat back down beside his classmate. Close enough to smell the scent of coffee and shampoo that she gave off. Setting aside her magazine Kendo gave her full attention to what he had to say. Looking more and more disgusted as he told his story. Only speaking up every now and again to ask a question.

“They were filming it? Who would make a point to film people fighting?” Kendo asked, crossing her arms annoyed. “And on the first day too?”

“Yeah, I still can't believe a teacher didn't show up.”

“Not that it would have mattered. Teachers, disciplinary committee, other students. Nobody does anything about fights, unless one of the kids has a rich parent that can sue. If not then they'll all just look away.”

“Have you been in a fight before?”

“No, but I’m prepared if I ever do get in one.”

“You can fight?”

“Do I look weak or something?” Kendo teased, flexing her biceps. “I do biology and mechanical engineering, so fixing motorbikes makes for a good workout.”

The mention of a motorbike piqued Tetsutetsu’s interest. He began asking all kinds of questions about Kendo’s studies. Leading to conversations about both of their lives and interests. The two talked for hours getting to know one another. Class, hobbies, gossip. They talked and talked hardly realizing that they had spent three hours just sitting there chatting.

“So, one more time, you have an actual-legit motorcycle?”

“Yep, I'm not allowed to drive it yet. But when I turn sixteen it'll be hair in the wind, and revving of engines anytime I want.”

“THAT SOUNDS AMAZING KENDO!”

“I'm glad you think so,” Kendo paused, her expression becoming melancholic. “Not a lot of people seem to care much about it.” Looking through the pages of her magazine she had become silent. Tetsutetsu sat concerned, almost wanting to say something until Kendo suddenly grew an excited grin. Dropping her book, she grabbed his hands. Bringing her face only an inch from his. “After we’re done here. Would you maybe like to stop by my house to see it?”

“Heck yeah I would!” Tetsutetsu cheered, his voice ringing nosily.

“Shh, not so loud dude!” Kendo hushed, “We're still at school.”

“Sorry,” Tetsutetsu blushed, “I'm not always aware of my volume!”

“No kidding,” She giggled, grabbing her bag. “Well we've definitely been here over an hour, want to head out?”

Suddenly a large cracking noise echoed from outside. Tetsutetsu's stomach ached when he saw the sky had become an ebony grey color almost out of nowhere. The wind howled like a vicious beast preparing for a massacre. Shaking the trees from side to side, so fast that it looked like they were having seizures. Their branches being forcefully ripped off with each gust.

“Ah crap!” Tetsutetsu exclaimed, dragging his hands through his hair in frustration. “Don’t tell me it’s another hurricane!”

“Well, they do have a tendency to appear out of nowhere,” Kendo informed, placing her hand on his shoulder. “I just hope they get the walls up in time!”

“All busses have been canceled for the night, do both of you have a ride home?” A grumbling voice asked from behind them.

They both turned and were met with the intense face of an older boy. Not having even noticed him enter the room. He has burnt red hair tied in a ponytail that reached the back of his neck. His burgundy eyes flashed vigorously as the veins on his forehead protruded outward. He wore a slight muscular build, most of which was hidden by the coat of his school uniform.

As they made their way through the dark halls of the school. Several students frantically ran past them, worried about the approaching hurricane.

“Sorry about that Senpai! I kind of lost track of time, and let detention go on a bit!” Kendo apologized, blushing and scratching the back of her head. “Oh! Where are my manners. Gane, this is Tetsutetsu Tetsutetsu!” She informed, presenting the equally flustered boy to his much taller Senpai. “He was the one I was managing today; I'll file his paperwork tomorrow.”

“Gane Aka, disciplinary council president!” Gane introduced himself, tilting his head slightly and holding out his hand. “I’m sorry for what happened to you this morning. I guess a lot of students from our middle school can't get over their old habits, even with a new school.”

“Old habits?” Tetsutetsu asked, shaking Gane's hand.

“Oh, you're not from Kobayashi Middle School?” Kendo asked, her eyes widening. “That must be why I’ve never seen you! Anyway, our old school had a program that taught all the student’s hand to hand combat. And a lot of the students took it a little too far. I bet those guys from this morning saw you as a brand-new challenge.”

“Exactly,” Gane nodded. “Some people seem to think fighting-” he said before spinning his body ninety degrees, grabbing a random girl passing through by her sweater. Pulling off her hood to reveal flowing locks of scarlet hair, similar in color to his own. “Makes them excused from their studies.”

“HEY WHAT THE HELL BRO!” The girl screeched, as Gane put her in a headlock. “LET GO OF ME, I WASN'T DOING ANYTHING WRONG!”

Letting go of her head, he stood her up straight. Bringing his large hands down on her shoulders with a force that caused the girl to yelp out in surprise. He tapped her on the biceps, stomach, and waist.

“Just as I thought,” Gane sighed, shaking his head in disappointment. “It pains my heart to know that my own sister tries to go behind my back like this!”

“Eh? I'm not going behind your back! I was just going to the gym!” The girl argued. Tetsutetsu noted that her tone and mannerisms were like that of someone who was either lying, or not telling the full truth.

“You’re wearing a swimsuit under your clothes.” Gane added.

“The gym has a pool!”

“The gyms pool has been closed for maintenance. A bird flew in, and the body is still stuck in the drain.”

“I knew that! I was there when they closed it. I was going to a different gym.”

“I was lying!” Gane rose his hand, and playfully chopped the back of the girl’s head. “Tetsutetsu, this ruffian is my little sister. Let me know if she ever gives you a hard time.” The scarlet haired girl finally noticed the others around her, widening her burgundy eyes in enthusiasm.

She was slightly shorter than Kendo. Her sharp teeth curling into a vicious smile, and her scarlet hair glared bright. She was almost bloodthirsty as she made her way over to Tetsutetsu, practically shaking with anticipation.

“Oh yeah! I know you!” She placed her hands on his shoulders as she moved in closer to get a better look at his face. Slowly she inspected the rest of him with endless curiosity, before offering him her hand. “Sobec Aka, I saw the videos of your fight. I must say you're a pretty great brawler. That was an awesome punch, me and you should go at it sometime!”

“That’s Sobec for you, brawls on the brains!” Kendo rolled her eyes, watching the excited redhead jab at the air.

“Hey Kendo, I wouldn't mind trading blows you sometime either!” Sobec joked, gently punching Kendo’s arm several times. “You could be a real high-class fighter if you tried!”

“I don’t think that’s necessary.” Kendo reeled back, awkwardly pushing away her challenger. “I better be heading home before things get worse! You two better head out as well! Your house is a good distance away after all!”

“Actually, we’re probably going to stay and help Student Body President with those waiting out the storm.” Gane replied lifting Sobec up over his shoulder. “I'm taking this one with me, be safe and have a nice night!”

He made his way down the hall with, Sobec kicking and screaming the whole way. Until both were out of sight completely.

“So?” Kendo spoke up, turning to face Tetsutetsu. “Do you live far? Not that I'm being pushy or anything, it’s just the storm walls might not hold up. And you don’t want to be walking outside if something goes wrong. I mean you can always stay here. But between us, the president is a real wet blanket.” Catching herself mid-ramble Kendo let out a sigh. Adjusting her shoulders, she locked eyes with him. “If you want to, you can wait at my house until the storm is over!”

“Yeah that actually sounds great!” Tetsutetsu replied, rubbing the back of his head flattered. “It is kind of a long walk!”

“Great! Now I can show you the bike!” Kendo cheered reaching into her bag pulling out a green umbrella. “Get under this with me, and we can go!”

Horrid-roaring rain assaulted the green fabric. The weight of the drops smacking the umbrella, teamed with the strong winds that ripped and tugged at it. All made for a difficult walk home. Tetsutetsu and Kendo huddled close, as their basic instinct to seek warmth and comfort overcame them. The ankles of Tetsutetsu’s pants as well as Kendo’s socks had become soaked with each puddle they had stepped in. Goosebumps spontaneously formed on their skin as the sharp-frigid precipitation seeped through their clothes.

“I live just up here!” Kendo pointed as the umbrella was forcibly ripped from her hands, being instantaneously devoured by the storm. They ran down the sidewalk only stopping when they reached a convenient store so they could catch their breath.

Kendo lead Tetsutetsu under a covered patio, out of the onslaught.

“Wait here a second!” She ordered, “I have to get my dog put up, but I’ll be back in a minute to get you!” Tetsutetsu nodded to her as she dashed back into the madness.

“OH, OH YES! YES, YES, YES, YES!” Tetsutetsu heard someone cheer. Looking behind him, he saw a kid his age. Wearing a Dekuranburu high uniform, the guy had pale golden-brown hair worn in a bun. His bag lay at his feet as he stood at an arcade cabinet. Not playing it, but rather watching the CPU beat the tar out of his character as he cheered giddily.

“YES, YES, HAVE THE HELPLESS FACE JUDGMENT!” He continued screeching, before noticing Tetsutetsu out the corner of his eye. Spinning around he revealed his face. He had equally golden eyes, with a distinct jawline allowing two of his canines emerge from his under bite.

“Oh hello!” He greeted, approaching Tetsutetsu. Forcibly grabbing and shaking his hand. “I’m terribly sorry if I was bogarting the game, I just get so caught up in it! Did you want a turn?” Tetsutetsu couldn’t explain it, but it was as if, in that moment, the guy's whole posture and tone had completely changed. “Hang on a second, I know you! You’re that fella from the video! That was quite the punch my friend!”

“Oh,” Tetsutetsu groaned, upset that the stupid video was basically the whole school’s introduction to him. “Yeah, I really wish I knew why people thought it was ok to start attacking me. Then again I’ve been told people at the school enjoy randomly attacking others.”

“Ha-ha You better believe they do!” The boy laughed, clapping his hands. “I myself enjoy watching a full-on brawl. See that game for example.” Tetsutetsu looked at the cabinet, watching the CPU finish off the player in a gory suplex. “HAHAHA Isn't that great? Nothing like it no sir!”

“You kinda wasted your money by just watching like that. Plus, it’s not a fight since your character just stood there the whole time.”

“That’s where you’re wrong. There’s no better fight then a straight up massacre. Watching true strength easily overthrowing those who can’t even realize how mediocre they are! That, is a good fight!” The stranger preached, denying Tetsutetsu any form of boundaries as he manically approached him. His hands swung back and forth as he spoke, forcing Tetsutetsu to back right into Kendo.

“Oops!” She exclaimed, rubbing her nose. “Sorry I wasn't watching where I…was…going.” She paused seeing the golden-haired boy glaring at her. Kendo locked her fingers around Tetsutetsu’s hand. “Tetsutetsu lets hurry over to my house, the storm could get worse at any time!”

Without a second to spare she pulled Tetsutetsu away from the scene.

“We should play together some time!” The guy called out his voice becoming muffled by the rain.

“Who was that guy?” Tetsutetsu asked as Kendo continued tightly squeezing his hand.

“Togami, He’s bad news!" She replied.

Finally making it to Kendo’s house they were both drenched. Like sponges being pulled from a sink. Streams of water fell from them to the floor.

The house was warm, as they were greeted by a stack of towels Kendo had left in the entryway. The dimly lit room had no sound whatsoever except for a dog barking a few rooms over.

“Here, dry off with one of these!” Kendo ordered handing Tetsutetsu one of the towels, before rubbing one of them over her hair. “I have some clothes of my dad’s that you can change into, that way you don't get sick!”

After drying up a bit Kendo lead Tetsutetsu to a bathroom. The shower curtain was left open revealing only: Two in one hair care, body wash, a sponge, and a shaving razor. The counter only had: hand soap, face cleanser, a jar of hair ties, and a hairbrush. An extra towel had also been set on the counter along with the aforementioned folded set of clothes.

Before changing Tetsutetsu called his mom. Letting her know he was safe at a friend’s house. Before removing his drenched clothes and replacing them with the dry ones.

Exiting the bathroom, Tetsutetsu began making his way back to the entryway when he saw it. Standing at four feet tall on all fours was a large grey dog. Its fluffy coat made it look more like a lion as it gazed at Tetsutetsu with dark brown eyes. Growling under its breath. Tetsutetsu’s heart raced as he slowly backed away hopping to reach the bathroom before the dog attacked. Wishful thinking because upon his third step, the dog charged. Leaping in the air it pushed Tetsutetsu to the ground. Leaving the boy to only watch as the beast opened its huge mouth, and went for his face.

Wet saliva engulfed Tetsutetsu’s cheeks and forehead as the dog assaulted him with a plethora of licking. Playfully bouncing up and down as it did so. Tetsutetsu sat laughing as he pet his new friend.

“YAMA NO!” Kendo hollered appearing at the end of the hall. She ran grabbing the mutt by his collar only for the dog to shake her off tackling her to the ground. “Ack, wait no!” She shrieked as Yama began licking her, leaving the ginger girl damp once more. “Ugh, dog drool!” Kendo complained watching the Akita run down the hall and out of sight. “Sorry about him. He's not violent, just affectionate.”

Picking up his clothes Tetsutetsu helped Kendo to her feet.

“No problem at all!” He replied. “I’ve always wanted one, so getting the affection is great!”

“Not the way he does it!” Kendo complained, taking the wet clothes from Tetsutetsu. “Here, let me put these in the dryer for you. It's not weird if I put them with mine…is it?” She asked avoiding eye contact.

“No, I don't mind,” Tetsutetsu answered looking away as well.

“Great, give me a minute and I'll show you the bike!” Kendo beamed, before grumbling under her breath. “Stupid, you could have just done yours after he left!”

Tetsutetsu made his way back to the entryway where his shoes and schoolbag laid. Yama lay on the couch watching Tetsutetsu with a wagging tail. The window on the door flashed every now and then from the lighting.

Peering through, Tetsutetsu gazed over to the convenient store to see Togami still there cheering at the arcade cabinet. His disposition changed back to how it was originally. His hands curled like claws, slouched over, shaking in an unnatural way. As if he wasn’t human.

“Hey ready to check it out?” Kendo asked approaching him from behind. Tetsutetsu spun around to see her give him a look of concern before he nodded in approval. “Scared of the storm?” She asked leading Tetsutetsu to the garage. “I saw you watching it.”

“No, not really. I was actually watching that Togami guy.” Tetsutetsu replied, making Kendo freeze in her tracks. “You said he was bad news, what did you mean by that?”

“Well-" Kendo began, pausing to contemplate her answer. “He feels he’s entitled to a lot of things to say the least. I mean several of the students at Dekuranburu are pretty rich, but he takes it to the next level.”

“Next level?”

“Like you'd expect rich kids to buy expensive things and flaunt their money and stuff, right? Well he does that, but goes beyond.”

“In what way?”

“He, well, he pays people to do things for him. Nothing pervy or anything, at least not in the traditional way.”

“May I ask what kind of things he’s paying people to do?”

“Well, in middle school he tried paying me to wear make up for him. Look ‘pretty’ and get ‘all dolled up’ you know? He even bought all kinds of stuff for me. But I’m not that kind of person so I turned him down.”

“I see.”

“I’m just not a fan of wearing makeup or anything. And I can't be bought, not by scum like him. Anyway, he doesn't take no for an answer. So, the next day he paid some creep to cut off my ponytail.”

“HE DID WHAT?”

“Whoa that was loud! But yeah, he had them cut it off. And between us I think he kept it. Hell, he probably still has it today.” Kendo paused to feel her hair. “Anyway, enough about that. Here we are.”

She opened the door to reveal another dark room, the only source of light being from the outside lightning. That was till Kendo flipped a switch turning on the lights with an electronic hum. Music from a nearby stereo began to play to the reveal of the bike. It was an orange and turquoise cruiser without wheels or engine. It was being supported by chains hanging from the ceiling, and a car jack from underneath. On a desk to the side was a blue toolbox sitting beside a plethora of spare parts.

“WOAH" Tetsutetsu gasped loudly, bending over to inspect the bike closer. “This is amazing Kendo!”

“Thanks, but it’s nowhere close to finished,” She replied happily. “My uncle taught me everything I know. I just wish I had more time to actually work on it. School and everything take a lot out of me.”

“Disciplinary committee must keep you from it huh?”

“You said it, at this rate it won’t be done by my birthday at all.”

“Do you have all the parts?”

“No, but im saving up cash for a whole new engine. I'm so close Tetsutetsusu Tetsutetsu you have no idea!” She cheered running over and grabbing his hands like she had before.

“When’s your Birthday?” He asked, turning his head in confusion.

“September ninth, in five months! But when it's done. All those babies sat, lawns mowed, and houses dusted will all be worth it.”

“That sounds amazing!”

“Yeah,” Kendo sighed, “I’ll take you for rides too, if you ever wanted to go!”

“HUH REALLY?” Tetsutetsu yelled causing Yama in the next room to begin barking.

“You really are too loud,” Kendo laughed placing her hand on her hip. “But of course, I have no problems giving a ride to my friend!”

“F-friend?”

“Sure,” They both began turning red once more. “I mean, if you want to be friends. Just an hour ago I was wrongfully keeping you in detention. I guess that’s not the friendliest thing to do.”

“Of corse I wanna be friends!” Tetsutetsu interrupted making Kendo smile.

The song on the radio changed. The tunes rhythmic beat and harmonizing gave the atmosphere a playful aura. Kendo began shaking her hips to the beat throwing her hands over her head she began dancing along with it.

“Well, let’s just say you might not want to be friends after this!” She teased, continuing to dance to the music. Tetsutetsu smiled, clapping along with the beat as Kendo continued to shake her body. Her eyes shut so she could feel the music running through her, before suddenly stopping.

“What is it?” Tetsutetsu asked concerned. Only to have Kendo snatch him by the wrists and pull him to her.

“Dance with me?” She asked swinging her arms with his. Tetsutetsu stopped to contemplate it for a second before giving in. The two danced together for the remainder of the song. Laughing and cheering as the sounds of music and Yama's barking drowned out the moans of the storm. Watching one another making a fool of themselves was surprisingly calming. Their laughter canceled out not only the storm, but also any bad thoughts they might have had. The pain from that mornings assault. The memories of Togami’s actions. All became meaningless for that one short song.

When it ended Kendo was panting, feeling like her lungs were about to burst from the combination of laughing and dancing. Tetsutetsu fell to the floor also worn out from the fun.

“Oh yeah, Tetsutetsu!” Kendo exclaimed, her eyes going wide. “You left stuff in your pants, and I guess I forgot to give them to you earlier.” Reaching into her back pocket, she pulled out his wallet and house keys along with a small brown envelope.

“What’s this?” Tetsutetsu asked holding the parcel up.

“Dunno it was in your back pocket,” Kendo explained. “You’re lucky the rain didn’t soil whatever it is!”

Tearing open the envelope Tetsutetsu went pale. Inside was a ton of cash. More than a salary man would see in a week, and it was just sitting in his back pocket. Tetsutetsu’s heartbeat skyrocketed as he brushed his thumb against the wad of money. Flipping the bills one by one, pausing only when he came in contact with a small-white note hidden inside. Pulling it out his body shook. Looking over to Kendo she was fumbling with the motorcycle parts, and not paying attention. Tetsutetsu felt as a lump in his throat began to form.

The note read: “A small payment for your efforts, you know what to do if you want more! King 0”