HOTDR Chapter 10: Evil In The Dead
It was early in the morning and the sun was just rising. After the hellish events of yesterday, Momosuke was fast asleep in Saya's bed. After Kiba and Momosuke collapsed and inevitably passed out, they were carried to the infirmary by paramedics owned by the Takagi family. After Nurse Shizuka helped out with the paramedics on stitching Momosuke back up, treating Kiba's arm and giving them both medication for the pain they were feeling, Saya had Momosuke transported to her room at 11pm the previous night so she could watch over him. Momosuke was under the cover lying on his back and Saya was lying on top of the covers, careful to not get too close to him because she didn't want to disturb his rest or let her dad see them both under the covers. As Momosuke slept, she was laying her head on a pillow and admiring his sleeping face. The sun was rising and daylight started to seep through the curtains and shine on Momosuke's face.
Saya (thinking): He's so handsome… even in his sleep.
She got out of bed and went to the restroom in her room and closed the door. Momosuke's eyes twitched and he began waking up slowly; the sunlight woke him. Without moving, he shifted his eyes back and forth, observing the room he was in. It was a very well designed room with two white one-seated couches across the room, a red, circular rug in the centre of the room, and very expensive drapes and curtains on her window. He used both elbows to prop himself up. He wasn't wearing a shirt and felt a sharp pain on the left side of his stomach. He put his hand on it and looked at his hand; no blood. He moved the blanket and saw that he had white gauze wrapped around his abdomen 3 times. He heard a toilet flush and looked to his left; the door to the restroom was there and a few seconds later, after hearing the sink run water, Saya exited the restroom.
Saya: Momo-kun!
Momosuke: Saya… when did you start calling me "kun"?
She walked over to the bed and sat next to him. She grabbed a pillow and hit him on the head with it.
Momosuke: Whoa! What's wrong?!
Saya: You had me worried sick about you! Do you know that?!
She continued beating him with the pillow.
Momosuke: Yeah, sorry about that- ow!
Saya: Don't you ever scare me like that again! You hear me?!
Momosuke: Yeah… Yeah. I'm sorry. I'll try not to scare you anymore.
Saya: You got through the gates and passed out in the parking area.
Momosuke: Kiba was already out cold by the time we got there. I was pretty much carrying his body. Holy shit! Is he okay?!
Saya: Yes. He's okay. The paramedics put a sling on him for his shoulder and gave him pain medication for his back and neck. He was in really bad shape.
Momosuke: Yeah, tell me about it. Ah man!
Saya: What?
Momosuke: The rice balls…
Saya: Huh?
Momosuke: I went to the Internet Cafe and found rice cakes there. I lost them.
Saya: Really? Rice cakes? Are you hungry?
Momosuke: Not at the moment… But they were good though.
Saya smiled and shook her head in disappointment.
Saya: You're so stupid.
Momosuke looked to her and she was now avoiding eye contact; she was obviously nervous. He looked away for a second and scratched the back of his head.
Momosuke: So, Saya.
Saya (quickly looking to him): Yes?
Momosuke: Um… remember that night… at Kiba's house?
Saya started blushing and looking away again.
Saya: Yeah… what about it?
Momosuke: I understand why you stopped, but… I sorta wish you hadn't.
Saya and Momosuke made eye contact and looked into each other's eye for a few seconds before Saya looked away.
Saya: I… I had to. I know that if we would've… done "it" then I'd be even more attached to you. And if something happens to you, I might-
She paused for a moment and thought to herself. She really, really wanted to do "it" but knew it wasn't the right of time. There's a right time for everything and that wasn't it. Tears began forming at her eyes but she wiped her face and deeply inhaled. She exhaled and let her pigtails out of the rubber bands.
Momosuke: Are you okay?
Saya: Yeah. I… I'm just…
Momosuke tilted his head a little bit, confused.
Saya: Why couldn't we have been together before this damn apocalypse happened? Why did we have to meet during a time like this? The first guy I've liked in a long time and it's during the end of the world.
Momosuke: It's okay though. It might seem like the end of the world now, but you're a whole new beginning in my book.
Saya: Really?
Momosuke: Yeah. Sure, there's dead people walking around. Sure, we could die at any minute of the day. Sure, I lost my rice cakes. But that doesn't change the fact that I've found the perfect girl.
Saya smiled at him and hugged him with tears in her eyes.
Momosuke: Careful. Don't want to pop these stitches again.
Saya: Oh. Sorry.
Momosuke: It's okay.
The two had made eye contact once again but this time, they were closer together. It was as if they were having a staring contest to see who could view into the other's mind first. Momosuke put his hand on top of hers.
Momosuke: Saya, there's something I'd like to get off my chest.
Saya didn't say a word. She was just listening.
Momosuke: I don't know if it's the right time for this, but I don't know when I'll get another chance. I… uh…
Saya tilted her head and raised an eyebrow.
Momosuke: I… L-
Just as he was about to speak, her bedroom door flew open. A giant man in a black jacket with matching pants and black shoes stood in the doorway; the shadows from the hallway made him a silhouette.
Saya: D-Dad?
Momosuke (thinking): Fucking shit.
Souichiro: Saya.
The man entered the room and stood in the middle of the room with his katana on the left hip.
Souichiro: Why is there a boy in your room, let alone in your bed?
Saya: I had the paramedics bring him here!
Souichiro: Without my permission?
Saya: I had the paramedics keep this from you. I told them I'd take the blame.
Souichiro: That still doesn't answer why he's in here, alone with my daughter.
Saya: He just woke up! He's one of the guys that passed out at the gates yesterday, Dad.
Momosuke swung his legs around and got out of the bed. He walked around to the middle of the room and stood in front of Souichiro at attention like a soldier. He formally bowed to the large man.
Momosuke: Momosuke Kamigawa, second-year, Fujimi Academy.
Souichiro: So you go to her school? And I didn't ask for your name. Stand up.
Momosuke stopped bowing and backed away from him, still standing in attention.
Souichiro: Care to tell me why you're in my daughter's private quarters without my permission, boy?
Momosuke: I'm not too sure myself, sir. I woke up and your daughter was watching over me. Me and Kiba Minami were separated from the group yesterday and we went through a lot to get here. So I'm sure she just wanted to keep a personal eye on me is all.
Souichiro: Is that so?
Momosuke: Yes, sir.
Souichiro: Saya.
Saya: Yes, Dad?
Souichiro: See me in my office at noon. Boy-
Momosuke: It's Momosuke, sir.
Souichiro: I know your name. Do not enter my daughter's room without my permission again. Now go lay down. You're wounded.
Momosuke nodded to him and went back to the bed and laid down as ordered.
Souichiro: Saya, noon.
Saya: Okay…
He turned around and made his exit. Once his footsteps were far enough away, Saya closed the door and went to the bed.
Saya: Are you okay?
Momosuke: I think I need a change of pants.
Saya: Shut up. It wasn't that bad.
Momosuke: That's your dad? He's fucking huge!
Saya: He's not that big.
Momosuke: Are you kidding me? He's 3 times my size!
Saya: Calm down. Least he likes you.
Momosuke: Huh?
Saya: What? You couldn't tell that he likes you?
Momosuke: I didn't get that vibe at ALL!
Saya: He may seem like an intimidating guy, but I've been around him for a while. I know when he likes someone and when he hates someone. You were respectful and he is really big on respect.
Momosuke: So if I shit my pants, he's okay with it?
Saya: Good God.
~Five Hours Later~
Kiba was asleep in a guest room; he was under the covers with his hurt shoulder under the cover and his left arm was above the covers. The curtains over the window was closed but sunlight was barely shining through. Just enough light was getting through to go right over his face. He opened one eye slowly and began squinting from the blinding light. He closed his eye again for a second and then sat up, opening both of his eyes. He went to stretch and then realized the sling on his arm.
Kiba (thinking): Hm? A sling? Well thanks to whoever did that. Shoulder is still killing me though.
He stretched his back out by leaning left and right.
Kiba (thinking): And my back feels a lot better. My neck too.
He looked around the and saw that his school jacket was on a chair across the room. He noticed he was shirtless but was wearing a pair of pajama pants that weren't his. He stood up and walked over to his jacket and grabbed it. He put his left arm through the jacket sleeve and wore it with only one arm in and let the rest of the jacket cover his shoulders. He didn't want to go through the hassle of putting a jacket on with both arms. He looked at his bedside and saw the sword that he had taken from the shrine sitting propped up against the nightstand. He grabbed it and walked over to the bedroom door and slightly opened it, poking his head out into the hallway and looking both ways.
Kiba: No one here. Am I all alone? Did everyone die when I was sleeping?
He walked into the hallway and closed the bedroom door behind himself. He then began walking through the dimly lit halls, looking behind him every now and again to watch his back.
Kiba: Yo, this isn't funny. Where the hell is everybody?
He came across a closed door with the kanji for the words "Dining Quarters" on a plaque on the wall next to the door.
Kiba (thinking): Well… I am hungry…
He opened the door and when he did, it was door. He flicked on the lights and…
Takashi and the Group: SURPRISE!
Kiba (screaming): Ahh!
Momosuke: What the hell?
Kiba: Huh? Oh. Hi guys.
In the kitchen was Takashi, Momosuke, Saya, Rei, Ms. Shizuka, Kohta, Tak, Alice and the unnamed dog. Lars and Saeko weren't in sight.
Saya : Happy Birthday, baka!
Kohta: Happy birthday, Kiba-san!
Rei: Happy birthday!
Ms. Shizuka: Happy birthday, Kiba!
Lars walked up to his left side and blew one of those party horns in his face, letting the paper of the party horn slap his cheek.
Kiba: Birthday? It's not my birthday. My birthday's April 20th.
Momosuke: It is April 20th.
Momosuke pointed to the calendar right next to Kiba above the lightswitch he used. The calendar had April 20th circled in red with two red exclamation points next to it.
Kiba: Oh.
Momosuke: You think I'd forget my best friend's birthday?
Takashi: Happy birthday, 18 year old!
Kiba: Damn I'm old.
Saeko: No you're not. You're the same age as me now.
He looked forward to see Saeko walk from behind Saya and Rei. She stood in front of him with her arms crossed and she was smiling.
Saeko: Happy birthday.
She walked to him and gave him a hug. He stood there frozen, not hugging her back. He looked to Rei who was hugging the air, symbolizing him to hug her back. He wrapped his left arm around her and returned the hug. While hugging her, he realized he had the sword in his hands still and was hugging her with the sword.
Kiba: Oh! Hey, Saeko-chan. I got this for you.
Saeko: For me?
Kiba: Yeah. We found it at the old shrine and I thought about you. You'd be a lot more deadly with a real sword than a fake one.
He handed her the sword and she took it slowly, envying the design of the hilt and sheath. She looked Kiba in the eyes and now they were having what seemed to be a staring competition. With little to no hesitation, the two kissed in front of everyone. Not french kissing, but a simple, sensual lip lock. Everyone in the kitchen was frozen with wide eyes. Nobody expected them to kiss out of nowhere like that. Their lips parted and the two looked at each other. Saeko looked away from him, blushing.
Saeko: I'm sorry.
She quickly left the kitchen with the sword Kiba had just given her.
Kiba (low voice): W-Wait…
But his words had no effect. She kept going and went out into the courtyard. Kohta held the cake cutter up.
Kohta (big grin): Cake anyone?
Lars blew the party horn awkwardly.
Kiba: Thanks you guys, for the party. But I've gotta go talk to her.
Momosuke: We understand man. Go. We'll hang out here.
Kiba nodded and left the kitchen, heading out to the courtyard with Saeko.
Kohta: So… what about this cake?
Momosuke: Don't touch his cake, Kohta. Let him cut it.
Kohta: But-
Momosuke: No.
Kohta: Aw man.
Rei: I hope Saeko is alright…
Saya: Yeah. I didn't expect her to kiss him like that.
Takashi: I don't think anyone expected that.
Lars blew the party horn once again. Outside, Kiba saw that Saeko was sitting on a black bench in front of one of the several flower gardens. He walked up behind the bench and stopped a few feet away.
Kiba: Um… Saeko-chan… Are you alright?
Saeko: Yes. I am.
Kiba walked over to the bench and sat next to her. She was borderline crying with tears in her eyes.
Kiba: You're not okay. You're crying… Do you want to talk about it?
Saeko: It's just this apocalypse. I kept thinking about that freshman last night.
Kiba thought back to the kid that was in the Kendo Club and remembered that freshman who committed suicide by jumping out of a two story window.
Saeko: He was so young… and he just ended it all. But I've been thinking. Maybe he did the right thing.
Kiba: What do you mean?
Saeko: People in this world have to be strong to survive. Those monsters out there don't care if you're young or old and strong or weak. If they get the chance, they will kill you. And I don't know if I want to live like that. Always running, always hiding. Always having to sleep with one eye open, always having to watch your back. It's nerve wracking and it's no way for anyone to live.
Kiba: I know where this is going and I don't like it. If it's anything about giving up, then you can forget it.
Saeko: But what if! What if that is the right thing to do? I don't want to grow old, have children and have them live a life of hide and go seek. I would want them to experience childhood, go to school, have friends.
Kiba: Stop it.
Saeko was quiet, stopping dead in her tracks.
Kiba: You're not giving up because you don't have a reason to. I get that you would like to have a family one day and not have to have them grow up with those freaks around, but I am making a promise to you right now. I will always be there for you. I will protect you with my life and if we ever decide to have kids, I will protect them with my life. You mean everything to me Saeko. And I want you to know that.
Saeko sat next to him with tears in her eyes. He couldn't tell if she was happy or sad, but either way he wasn't telling a lie. He meant every word. Saeko hugged him again, putting her face on his shirtless chest. Kiba started petting her hair that was going down her back as he rested his cheek on the top of her head. She sat up from hugging him and touched his damaged shoulder.
Saeko (sniffling): Is your shoulder alright now?
Kiba: Yeah. It's sore, but it'll be okay.
Saeko: That's good. I'm sorry I ruined your birthday…
Kiba: Ruined it? Are you kidding? You made it a hundred times better! You've got no idea how long I've wanted to kiss you.
Saeko: Really?
Kiba gave her a big smile and scratched the back of his head.
Kiba: Yeah. But I definitely was not expecting the kiss in the kitchen.
Saeko: I don't know what happened. I guess I let my emotions get the best of me. I was so scared when you were out there with Momosuke and when I saw that you were alive, I felt a huge relief. And… I guess I felt the urge to kiss you is all.
Kiba: And you know what? I'm totally fine with that.
Kiba scooted closer to her and put his left arm around her shoulders, bringing her close. The two just sat there and rested their heads on each other's while watching the clouds pass.
Meanwhile, it was after 12pm so Saya began walking to her father's office like she was ordered. She opened the door and let herself in, closing the door behind herself. Souichiro was facing her, sitting in his office chair.
Souichiro: I taught you how to knock on a door, didn't I?
Saya: What do you want dad?
Souichiro: That boy. What was he doing in your room? And don't lie to me.
Saya: I'm being honest. I had the paramedics bring him to my room so I could watch over him.
Souichiro: Why?
Saya: Because… I might like him… a little bit.
Souichiro: When did it become okay to have a boy in your room, Saya? Your mother and I did not raise you like that.
Saya: We didn't do anything though. You saw for yourself. We were just sitting on my bed. He had just woken up when you walked in.
Souichiro: I can tell the boy is respectful, but that doesn't give him a pass to be in my daughter's private quarters.
Saya: I know… Sorry about that. But I just wanted to make sure he was okay. You saw for yourself that he and Kiba were in bad shape when they showed up.
Souichiro: You must really like this boy, am I right?
Saya looked to the floor with a nervous look on her face and blushing.
Souichiro: I thought so. Bring him here.
The door to the office opened and Momosuke walked into the room. He had his school shirt on, after it was washed, and his school pants, that were also washed. Momosuke formally bowed to Souichiro.
Momosuke: Sorry to intrude. But I heard some of that.
Saya (whispering to him): Are you crazy?!
Momosuke (whispering back to her): Shh. I got this.
Souichiro: Eavesdropping? Are you stupid, brave or both?
Momosuke: Sorry. I tend to think about things after I do them.
Souichiro: That's a bad habit boy. You'd better break it fast.
Momosuke: Yes, sir. I'll keep that in mind. You wanted to see me?
Souichiro: Just to ask you a question.
Momosuke started to get a little nervous, intimidating by the giant of a man sitting in the chair in front of him.
Momosuke (thinking): Damn. This guy is sitting down and he's still bigger than me. How can Saya talk to him like that and not get intimidated?
Souichiro: Are you and my daughter… seeing each other?
Momosuke: I don't know if you would call it "seeing", sir. But I'd like to let you know this in front of your daughter and you. I…
Souichiro narrowed his eyes at him, anticipating his answer. Saya swallowed hard and looked at Momosuke out of the corner of her eyes.
Momosuke: I love your daughter.
Saya's eyes grew wide and she turned her head, staring at Momosuke. Souichiro raised an eyebrow to him.
Souichiro: Is that so…
Momosuke: Yes, sir. Since this whole thing went down back at the school, I haven't let her out of my sight until recently when me and my best friend were separated from the group. And when I woke up in her bed, I knew why she had me there. It was to make sure nothing else bad happened to me. She wanted to keep a personal eye on me and I thank her for that.
Souichiro and Momosuke made serious eye contact and had a miniature staring contest until Souichiro looked to Saya who was still baffled that Momosuke said he loved her.
Souichiro: Saya.
Saya (looking to Souichiro): Y-Yes!
Souichiro: Do you love this boy?
Saya's heart sank to her stomach from nervousness. Her dad just asked her a question that she would have never guessed he would ask her, especially with Momosuke right next to her.
Saya (thinking): Oh no! What do I do! Momosuke is right there! But what will my dad say to my answer…? *sigh* I guess there's only one way to find out.
Souichiro: Saya. I asked you a question.
Saya: Yes.
Souichiro: Hm?
Momosuke looked to her and back to Souichiro with a smile on his face.
Saya: Yes. I do. I am in love with him.
Souichiro: And you're sure about this?
Saya: I'm sure. He's always there for me, even when I'm not being the nicest person.
While their hands were at waist level, Momosuke reached over and held her hand.
Souichiro: If that's the case…
Saya lightly squeezed Momosuke's hand and he lightly squeezed hers. They were both incredibly nervous, but they were now in it together.
Souichiro: I give you permission to date my daughter.
Momosuke: Really?!
Souichiro: Yes. There is nothing more important to me than my daughter's happiness. And in my absence, you will take care of her. Do you understand me?
Momosuke: Yes, sir! Thank you very much!
Momosuke formally bowed to him once again. Souichiro stood and held out his hand for a handshake.
Souichiro: Boy.
Momosuke looked up and saw his hand. He let go of Saya's hand and walked to the desk, shaking Souichiro's hand. Souichiro then pulled him in close and put his face next to his left ear, so Saya couldn't see what he was saying.
Souichiro (whispering): If anything happens to my daughter, I will sever every limb from your body with my sword. Do you hear me, boy?
Momosuke (whispering, terrified): Y-Yes. Yes, sir. I hear you, loud and clear.
Souichiro let go of his hand and sat back in his chair. Momosuke backed away to Saya and stood next to her.
Souichiro: Now both of you, out of my office. I have work to do.
The two turned around, holding hands again, and exited the office. Saya poked her head back into the office before closing the door.
Saya: Hey dad.
Souichiro: Hm?
Saya: Thank you.
Souichiro had his arms folded and nodded to her. She left the room and closed the door behind herself. Souichiro rested both of his elbows on his desk and leaned on his beefy hands.
Souichiro (thinking): Kamigawa Momosuke…
Outside in the enormous courtyard, Kohta and Takashi were walking towards the tents on the far side of the yard. Kohta had his AR-10 on him with the strap over his right shoulder and Takashi was doing the same thing with the Ithaca shotgun. Tak, Lars and Alice were behind them; Alice was sitting on Lars' shoulders and he was holding on to her ankles for balance. Alice had the puppy resting on top of Lars' head. Kohta and Takashi were now walking through the tented area.
Kohta: How are you liking the shotgun, Takashi?
Takashi: It's pretty sweet actually. I've gotta get better with aiming it, but when I get that, I'll be golden. How about you and the uh…
Kohta: AR-10?! Man! This rifle is amazing! With 18 bullets in each magazine and a 100 meter scope, it's the perfect weapon! And the best part, the recoil is manageable! Normally on models this new, the recoil is a little more powerful. But since the hammer inside is smoothed out, it makes for an easier shot.
Takashi: You just spoke like 13 different languages at the same time.
?: Good God. What the hell do you do all day? Beat your slim jimmy?
Kohta and Takashi stopped walking and looked in front of them to see a kid standing in front of them with angry eyes and his arms folded.
Kohta: What the hell did you say kid?!
Takashi: Whoa, whoa! Kohta! Calm down man. It's just a kid.
?: Who's the scrub with the jacked up haircut?
Takashi: The fuck did you just say?
Tak and Lars walked over to them and Tak put his hands in front of Kohta and Takashi.
Tak: Guys, please don't tell me you're about to let a kid get you all worked up.
?: What's up with this guy? Is this house built for clowns or something?
Tak: Excuse me?
Kiba, Saeko, Rei and Lars with Alice and the puppy on his shoulders walked over.
Kiba: What's all the noise about guys?
Takashi: This little kid is being a pain in the ass.
Rei: Oh, calm down Takashi.
Kiba looked to the kid and saw that he was very unintimidating, but he looked very unhappy.
Kiba: He's like 10 years old.
?: I'm 14 you fucking moron.
Kiba: Whoa! What's up with that mouth, kid? Don't you think you're a little young to be talking like that?
?: Shut up before I kick your ass up and down the street.
Saeko: Kiba, we should leave before things get out of hand.
Kiba: No, no, no. Hold on. What was that?
?: I said, "Shut up before I kick your ass up and down the street". Are you deaf?
Kiba began walking towards the kid and Tak along with Takashi held him back. Saeko walked in front of Kiba and began pushing him back.
?: What are you going to do with that messed up arm, gimpy?
Kiba: Let me at that little shit!
Momosuke ran over to the tented area; Saya was close behind him.
Momosuke: Kiba! What the hell is your problem!?
Kiba: It's not me! It's this fucking kid!
Momosuke looked to the kid and saw that he looked rather young and was not intimidating by any means.
Momosuke: Dude he's like 10 years old.
?: Fourteen! What the fuck is the matter with you dumbasses!
Saya: Don't talk to him like that!
?: What's up with the pink hair? Are you a muppet?
Saya's left eye twitched and she grinded her teeth together.
Momosuke: Whoa… Hey… calm down. Just stay calm-
Saya lunged for the kid but Momosuke grabbed her.
Momosuke: Yep! Time to go this way.
Momosuke was holding Saya by the waist and carried her away.
Saya (yelling out): I want that little brat off of my property!
Lars: This kid is causing trouble. Let's go, Alice.
Alice: Okay, scary onii-chan. I don't like him. He made fun of onee-chan (sister) and my other onii-chans. Let's go, Zero!
Lars: Zero?
Alice: Oh. Yeah! Kohta thought it was a good idea to name him Zero since he's fast. He said a few other things too, but I forgot.
Lars: You're so adorable, Alice.
Lars walked away with Alice on his shoulders and Momosuke was trying to calm Saya down a few yards away.
?: Nado nii-chan!
?: Are you causing a riot over here?
The group looked to see that two girls, seeming to be fraternal twins, walking over to them. They were close to the same height, but one was maybe an inch shorter than the other. The shorter one was Ame and the taller one was Rukina.
Ame: Nado! Will you leave them alone? We're sorry if our younger brother has caused an issue.
Takashi: That's okay.
Kiba: He called me gimpy!
Rukina: Nado! Is that true?
Ame: Were you making fun of this man's shoulder?
Nado crossed his arms again and looked at the ground.
Rukina (serious): Nado.
Nado: *sigh* Yes…
Rukina: You will apologize to them all right now for causing them trouble.
Nado: But-
Ame: No buts! Apologize right now, mister.
Nado looked at the remaining group members with a disgusted look on his face. Kiba, Takashi, Saeko, Tak, Kohta and Rei stood there waiting for their apology.
Nado: *makes a guttural noise* I'm… sorry for calling you names.
Kohta: Apology accepted!
Nado turned around and walked away from the group, walking between his sisters and leaving them there.
Ame: Nado!
Ame went after her brother and Rukina looked back at them.
Rukina: Again, sorry for my brother's actions. It won't be happening again.
Kiba and Takashi nodded to her and then she went off with her sister and brother. Momosuke and Saya walked back over to the group but they were doing something the group hasn't seen before; holding hands. Takashi noticed them holding hands and crossed his arms smiling. Kiba was smiling and raising an eyebrow. Kohta had a waterfall of tears of joy in his eyes.
Takashi: Well, well.
Kiba: Look at what we have here.
Momosuke and Saya let go of each other's hands; Momosuke nervously scratched the back of his head while blushing and Saya scratched her cheek with her finger while looking away and blushing.
Rei: When did this little train get set in motion?
Momosuke: What are you talking about?
Rei: You and Takagi. Since when do you two hold hands?
Momosuke: Uh…
Saya: What? We're not holding hands.
Rei: You were! Don't get all embarrassed now!
Saya: I'm not!
Rei: So you were holding hands?
Saya: Huh? What?!
Rei: Nevermind. We all saw it.
Kiba: Don't try to look innocent now, Momo-kun.
Momosuke: Yeah, yeah.
The group heard the sound of the front gates opening and looked to the front of the yard to see that a bus was pulling in. The bus came to a complete stop and the doors opened. Out stepped Koichi Shido, who was still in the same suit he left the school in four days ago. After he stepped out, the kids began coming along with him.
Shido (holding his arms up): My children, we have arrived! This is the promise land that we have been searching for since we first left that terrifying school! Please, residents of the manner, let us join your forces and live among thee! We have been fending for ourselves since this apocalypse began! If need be, we will gather our own food and supply our own water! We will be as much of a help to the society as we possibly can!
Rei (saying under her breath): Shido…
Rei took Kohta's gun off of his shoulder and began storming over to the parking area. The group followed behind her.
Momosuke: Uh… Rei? What are you doing?
Kohta: That's my rifle!
Rei: Shut up, Kohta.
Kohta: Aw man.
Takashi: Hey, Rei! Wait a second. Talk to me.
Rei: It's Shido. I'm going to end him right now.
Takashi: Hey, hey, hey! I don't think that's a good idea! Especially not on old man Takagi's property!
Saya: I'm sure my dad wouldn't want blood in his parking area, Miyamoto. You should think this through.
Rei: I already did. A long time ago.
Takashi: What does that mean?
She ignored his question and kept walking towards the parking area. Takashi grabbed her by the arm, stopping her in her tracks.
Rei: Let me go, Takashi.
Takashi: I can't let you do that.
Rei: Why not?
Takashi: We all hate Shido as much as the next guy, but killing him won't solve anything. You need to stop and get a cool head. You're not thinking straight.
Rei: Let me go.
Takashi: Rei…
She snatched her arm away from Takashi and kept walking. Shido saw her coming and narrowed his eyes for a second. He then put on a nice guy act.
Shido: Ah! Ms. Miyamoto! So nice to see you, yet again!
She aimed the gun at him, pointing it at his face.
Rei: Stop talking, you motherfucker.
Shido: Hey, what's going on? Why the hostility?
Rei: Don't act so innocent. You're just going to piss me off and make me pull the trigger faster.
Akia: Shido-sensei!
Tsunoda: No! Shido-sama!
The girls of the bus were putting their hands overs their mouths, scared for Shido.
Kiba: Rei! Stop!
Shido: It is wise to listen to your friend, Ms. Miyamoto.
Rei: Or what?
Saya: Oh… man…
Momosuke: This is going to get bad.
Saya and Momosuke both saw Souichiro approaching from the main house entrance. He was walking with Yuriko Takagi, Saya's mother. The titan of man stopped just in front of Rei and Shido, who saw the man stop in front of them.
Shido: Oh thank goodness! You must be the owners of the property. Can you please tell this lunatic to lower her weapon? We are in a family area-
Souichiro: Close your mouth.
Shido (confused): Hm?
Kiba (leaning towards Momosuke): Who's the big ass dude in the black?
Momosuke (whispering to Kiba): That's Saya's dad.
Kiba (whispering to Momosuke): Are you sure that's not the abominable snowman?
Yuriko: Souichiro, we've seen this man before.
Souichiro: Yes. Koichi Shido. Son of Ichirou Shido.
Shido: Y-Yes? That is I, kind sir.
Souichiro: Don't try to sweet talk me. I won't be having any of that.
Shido: Do I know you by any chance?
Souichiro: Souichiro Takagi, Don of the Tokonosu prefecture's ultra-nationalist organization.
Shido (thinking): Ah… Head of the Takagi family. I've heard of this man. He's very wealthy and very powerful.
Souichiro: I know your father and he's a disgusting excuse for a human being. A corrupt politician that uses illegal means to acquire money and threatens any that oppose him. You and your father make me sick. You and your bus of followers are not welcome here. Leave my property at once or I will allow this girl to end your life.
Shido (thinking): He can't be serious. He'd let this little bitch kill me? In front of all of these people? He's bluffing!
Souichiro: Young girl. What is your name?
Rei: Rei Miyamoto. I attended Fujimi Academy with your daughter.
Souichiro: Miyamoto? Are you the daughter of Tadashi?
She nodded to him.
Souichiro: Well, in that case. Ichirou Shido was the leading man in funny business in the city. He has done some heinous things to the Miyamoto family. I will allow you to end his life right now for the pain he has caused you and your family.
Takashi's eyes grew wide and he looked at Souichiro like he was crazy. Rei put her finger on the trigger and closed one eye, aiming at Shido's face.
Shido: W-Wait just a minute-!
Takashi stepped in front of Shido and put his hand on the barrel of the gun. He pulled it down and aimed it at the ground.
Takashi: Stop this Rei. This isn't you. This isn't what we do.
Rei: But… Takashi-
Takashi: I know you don't like him. Hell, I don't know him and I don't like him. But that doesn't mean you have to kill him like a sick dog. That isn't the Rei I know.
Rei took her finger off the trigger and looked down to the ground, disappointed in herself. She looked to Takashi who had a serious expression on his face. She let go of the gun and Takashi tossed it to Kohta and Kohta began hugging it like it was a fine woman. Takashi looked to Kohta with a creeped out look and then focused back on Rei. She was rubbing her right shoulder and avoiding eye contact with Takashi.
Takashi: Come on, Rei. Let's go talk.
Takashi grabbed her by the forearm and walked away from Shido and the others. By that time, they had drawn a large crowd of people watching, including Nado and the twin sisters.
Souichiro: Koichi Shido. You will wait over by the refugee tents until I figure out what to do with you. Now leave my sight before I change my mind.
Shido narrowed his eyes to Souichiro and began walking away from him. He closed his eyes and thought to himself for a second, before getting back into his brainwashing mindset.
Shido: My children! It seems that we as one are not welcomed by the owner of the property! We shall wait in the refugee tents while he decides where we will end up! Does that sound like something you'd enjoy? Waiting around while someone chooses your destiny for you?
Tsunoda: No way!
Akia: We're with you all the way, Shido-sensei!
Shido: Alas, my children! We will have our time! For now, we will obey the law of this property and follow the words of authority. This way, my young ones.
Shido and Akia led the group of his followers to the tented area and Souichiro walked away, heading back to his office.
Saya: Dad!
Souichiro: Hm? What is it, Saya?
Saya: Are you sure it's a good idea to let them stay?
Souichiro: They won't be here long. Believe me when I say that.
He continued to the house. The remaining group, Tak, Kohta, Momosuke, Saya, Kiba and Saeko, looked over to Takashi and Rei who were a good distance away and talking. The group saw Takashi's mouth move and then Rei went in to hug him.
Saya: Well, least they worked whatever it was out.
Kiba: Yeah… Now back to you two.
Kiba directed his attention to Saya and Momosuke. Momosuke and Saya quickly walked towards Takashi and Rei, completely avoiding what Kiba was saying. Saeko giggled at Kiba as he had a dumbfounded expression on his face. The group gathered around Takashi and Rei.
Momosuke: So, Takashi.
Takashi: Yeah?
Momosuke: What's the plan?
Takashi: What do you mean?
Saya: Aren't you like, the leader or something?
Takashi: Why does everyone think I'm the leader?
Rei: You have this aura about you that screams leader.
Takashi: Okay, okay! How about we have a vote?
Kohta: Seems fair.
Tak: Why not?
Kiba: Well, I think I would be a perfect leader.
Momosuke: In hell.
Saya: Why not Momosuke?
Kiba: In hell.
Saya: Why not? He's calm, collected, thinks about what he does before he does it for the most part.
Kiba: Definitely not.
Momosuke: I vote Takashi.
Tak: Me too. He seems like he's got a level head. He managed to stop Rei from killing Shido and calmed her down.
Saeko: That is true.
Just then, Lars and Alice walked back over with Zero; Alice was still on Lars' shoulder and Zero was in her arms.
Takashi: Perfect timing! Lars, who do you think should be leader?
Lars: You.
Alice: You should be leader, onii-chan!
Takashi (thinking): Well that backfired.
Rei: I say Takashi should be leader.
Momosuke: We all agree? Takashi for leader?
ALL: Yes.
Kiba: I object!
Momosuke: Get over it.
Kiba: Not cool...
Takashi: Okay… Okay. I guess I'll be leader.
Kohta: Awesome!
Momosuke: Congrats on getting leader, Takashi!
Takashi (nervously smiling, scratching the back of his head): Do I have much of a choice?
Rei: Oh, don't be like that. You were already leader before we had this vote. We've always followed you because you've got a strong leader complex. Haven't you noticed that?
Takashi looked around at the group and everyone was giving him a light smile and a head nod; Kiba looked away, disappointed at first but then looked to Takashi with a smile.
?: Hey guys!
Everyone looked back at the entrance to the house to see Nurse Shizuka running out onto the courtyard, her oversized chest bouncing left and right as she ran.
Takashi: Wow. Look at Titzilla go.
Kohta imagined Shizuka running in slow motion across a field of flowers while wearing nothing but a two piece bikini. He looked down at the front of his pants and looked left and right, making sure no one was looking. He slowly backed out of the group and ran to the house.
Kiba: The hell's his problem?
Momosuke: Nothing. Anyway, Ms. Shizuka? You seem excited. What's up?
Ms. Shizuka: I remembered!
Rei: Remembered what?
Ms. Shizuka: Rika's number!
Takashi: Who's Rika?
Tak: I don't know. Maybe some kind of soup?
Kiba: That's my sister, morons. What's her number? I don't know it by heart.
Shizuka pulled out the Takagi home phone from her pocket and began dialing. She showed Kiba the phone.
Kiba: Oh yeah. That is it.
Momosuke: Why haven't we called her yet? That should've been the first thing we did.
Kiba: Kinda hard with a soaked phone. After we jumped into the river, my phone was fried.
Takashi: Yeah, mine too.
Rei: Same here. I tried calling my dad again, but it wouldn't even turn on.
Ms. Shizuka (excited): Shall we give her a call?
Kiba: Of course! It'd be nice to hear her voice again.
Ms. Shizuka: Okay!
Shizuka immediately dialed the number and put it to her ear. Everyone, including Lars and Alice with Alice still on his shoulders, gathered around Shizuka's ear that she had the phone to. After a few rings, someone answered on the other line.
?: Hello?
Ms. Shizuka: Rika!
Rika (on the phone): Shizuka? Hey! What's up?
Ms. Shizuka: Oh my GOD! Rika, it was so crazy! We had an emergency at the school and we had to evacuate! But then a lot of people died, so we got the keys to the buses and tried to get out of there. But we got left behind by one of my douchebag co-workers and we got a second bus. Then we-
Rika (on the phone): Whoa, whoa! Shizuka! Slow down. Is Kiba okay?
Ms. Shizuka: Oh he's fine. Do you want to talk to him?
Rika (on the phone): Yeah. Put him on.
She handed Kiba the phone and he put it to his ear, nervous to talk to his sister again. Kiba inhaled and let out a deep exhale.
Kiba (cheery): Hey, Rika!
Rika (on the phone): Little brother. What's going on, kiddo?
Kiba: Phew! We've been through a lot sister. Got a busted up shoulder is all though.
Rika (on the phone): What's wrong with it? It's not broken or anything, is it?
Kiba: No, it was just dislocated. It's going to be alright. They gave me pain meds and stuff.
Rika (on the phone): Well, I'm happy to know you're okay. Is Momosuke there?
Kiba: Yeah, he's right here. He's alright too. Oh wait! He got stabbed!
Rika (on the phone): Really?
Kiba: Yeah! I'll have to tell you about that later. Oh! Um… Rika…?
Rika (on the phone): You sound like you did something bad. What's wrong?
Kiba: Yeah… um… Would you be upset if I told you we may have stopped by the house, grabbed the guns and Crossbow from your locker and the Beretta from your underwear draw and then lost the house to those freaks?
Rika (on the phone): I'd be very upset.
Kiba: Welp! Good thing that didn't happen! And what if I said that we might have lost your Beretta and Crossbow?
Rika (on the phone): My favorite handgun and my Crossbow I received as a gift? I'd be highly upset.
Kiba: Good thing that didn't happen either!
Rika (on the phone): Kiba…
Kiba: Here you go!
He handed the phone back to Shizuka. He looked to Momosuke.
Kiba: She's going to fucking kill me.
Momosuke: Move to Alaska. She'll never find you.
Suddenly, a flash of light went off in the distance; a light that was bright enough to affect everyone outside in the courtyard. Momosuke covered his eyes with the back of his hand but could see a smoke trail in the sky; the type of smoke trail missiles leave behind.
Momosuke (thinking): What the hell…?
Saya (covering her eyes): What is that?
Momosuke: I think I see a missile trail!
Takashi: What?!
Ms. Shizuka: Hello? Rika?
The phone line had gone out. It was a flat tone.
Ms. Shizuka: The phone line went dead…
Takashi: What in the hell just happened…?
To be continued...
END CHAPTER 10
NEXT TIME ON HOTDR
Kiba: Oh man… Rika is going to kill me.
Momosuke: Oh, you'll be fine.
Saya: You should've asked her to use them first.
Kiba: WITH WHAT PHONE?!
Takashi: The light was really bright… Anyone think they know what it was?
Kohta: Could've been the solar light rays from the atmosphere reflecting off of the-
Kiba: Dude, what are you saying right now?
Ms. Shizuka: I think it was a fairy that appeared to me in a dream a few nights ago.
Rei: Uh… Ms. Marikawa? Are you feeling okay?
Ms. Shizuka: I do! I feel like I should be an underwear model!
Kohta: YEESSSSS!
Momosuke: Good God, Kohta! Calm down!
Kohta (wiping his mouth): Sorry about that.
Nado: Still beating that slim jimmy, huh?
Saya: Who-? Who let this kid in here?!
Saeko: We should put a sign up or something.
Kiba: Yeah. Main cast only! Get outta here, side character!
Nado: Yeah, whatever.
Takashi: That kid gives me headaches.
Lars: None of us like him. Not even Alice.
Rei: If that little kid were dying, I'd-
Takashi: Whoa there! Next time on Highschool of the Dead Revamped!
ALL: War Against the Dead!
Kohta: Whoa… A war?
Momosuke: I think so man. Someone's gonna die.
Saya: Don't say that!
Lars: No one will die if we watch each other's backs.
Saya: Lars… is right. Let's watch out for each and-
ALL: KICK SOME ASS!