[3/12/2031 8:21 AM:] [Isogai] TONNIIIGGHTTT!
[3/12/2031 8:21 AM:] [Isogai] Is everyone excited?
[3/12/2031 8:22 AM:] [Nagisa] Are you kidding me? I've been on my toes all week! Of course I'm excited!
[3/12/2031 8:23 AM:] [❀Kanzaki❀] i can't wait to see everyone again! its been so long!
[3/12/2031 8:23 AM:] [Rio] i actually flew back from england just last week! it's been nice being able to see the wife again, but i cannot WAIT to regroup with you knuckleheads.
[3/12/2031 8:23 AM:] [Rio] you better watch out. you KNOW i've got pranks up my sleeve!
[3/12/2031 8:24 AM:] [❀Kanzaki❀] 😰😰😰
[3/12/2031 8:24 AM:] [Kurahashi 💛] it's a real shame bitch-sensei and karasuma can't come
[3/12/2031 8:25 AM:] [Yada] Yeah. But at least there's always next year.
[3/12/2031 8:25 AM:] [Rio] and i'm sure while they're gone we can spread LOTS of gossip about them
[3/12/2031 8:25 AM:] [Kurahashi 💛] we will NOT!
[3/12/2031 8:25 AM:] [Rio] 😜
[3/12/2031 8:26 AM:] [Okano] Speaking of gossip… anyone got any idea what it is Takebayashi and Okuda are planning? The two of them keep bragging, but I still haven't got much of an idea what's going on.
[3/12/2031 8:26 AM:] [Megu] Oh no. We're running the event and even we don't know what's going on. I trust them to behave, though.
[3/12/2031 8:26 AM:] [Okuda] ahahaha! sorry! i can't spoil the surprise too early! i promise it's something good, though 😅
[3/12/2031 8:26 AM:] [Isogai] Well count us as excited!
[3/12/2031 8:28 AM:] [Isogai] Everyone remember that the event starts at seven-fifteen! Though don't feel bad if you show up a little early or a little late.
[3/12/2031 8:28 AM:] [Isogai] We'll have snacks and games set up. Not to mention drinks. Just remember to be responsible, everyone! No heavy drinking! And bring your own sleeping bag or pillows!
[3/12/2031 8:29 AM:] [Kayano] If anyone forgets the three of us are bringing blankets, but trust me when I say you do NOT want to sleep on the floor on a blanket.
[3/12/2031 8:29 AM:] [Hayami] Chiba and I have everything we'll need.
[3/12/2031 8:29 AM:] [Chiba] Sleeping bags. Pillows. Nerf guns. A babysitter.
[3/12/2031 8:30 AM:] [Terasaka] nerf guns?
[3/12/2031 8:30 AM:] [Terasaka] do i even wanna know?
[3/12/2031 8:30 AM:] [Sugino] Well we ARE the assassination classroom. 😅
[3/12/2031 8:31 AM:] [Fuwa] i've got a petsitter for naruto!
[3/12/2031 8:31 AM:] [Itona] i still can't believe you named your cat that.
[3/12/2031 8:31 AM:] [Fuwa] you're just jealous you didn't come up with it first.
[3/12/2031 8:32 AM:] [Isogai] Well… I'm glad everything seems to be settled! I'll see you all later tonight!
[3/12/2031 8:32 AM:] [Sugino] Yeah!
[3/12/2031 8:32 AM:] [Nagisa] Here's to a good reunion!
[3/12/2031 6:01 PM:] [Fumiko💜] Happy early birthday?
[3/12/2031 6:02 PM:] [Fumiko💜] If… you still wanna consider it your birthday, that is. I know you've been having some identity issues lately. I wouldn't blame you if you wanted to leave all that behind entirely.
It's 6 PM on a Thursday evening and surprisingly humid out for an average spring day. Fumiko lounges in her bed, tapping away at her phone. And as the minutes pass by they draw closer and closer to the best… and the worst... day of Aguri's entire life.
March 13th. The day everything changed.
She's still not sure how she feels about everything that happened back then. Sometimes she thinks about it and gets almost mad. But all the same… the past two weeks have been nice. Things are getting better with Makoto... and as mad as she is at Korosensei for letting her die, she thinks she owes him a 'happy birthday' at the very least.
[3/12/2031 6:03 PM:] [Makoto💛] Nah. Don't worry about it.
[3/12/2031 6:03 PM:] [Makoto💛] I'm still trying to get a lot of stuff figured out, but I'd never wanna leave that behind.
[3/12/2031 6:03 PM:] [Makoto💛] It was a gift, after all.
[3/12/2031 6:03 PM:] [Makoto💛] You know I'd never crap on that.
'Yeah. Yeah,' Fumiko texts back, cracking a smile. '...I know.'
[3/12/2031 6:04 PM:] [Makoto💛] Who knows? Maybe I'll even start trying to collect 'em!
[3/12/2031 6:04 PM:] [Makoto💛] Birthdays, I mean.
[3/12/2031 6:04 PM:] [Makoto💛] I had so much fun at my last party. And you know what's even better than one? Two!
[3/12/2031 6:04 PM:] [Makoto💛] I may as well embrace Korosensei's. Start looking into Reaper's, too. If I manage to uncover it then I'll have not one… not two… but THREE birthdays. Can you IMAGINE?
Fumiko snorts.
[3/12/2031 6:04 PM:] [Fumiko💜] Good luck with that. The guy was… like… SORT of a mystery.
[3/12/2031 6:05 PM:] [Makoto💛] Awww c'mon. How hard can it be to find a log of orphaned little children from war-torn countries? All I gotta do is skim through that and BOOM! I've got my guy!
[3/12/2031 6:05 PM:] [Fumiko💜] No-one's keeping a log, Makoto. If they were those kids wouldn't be orphaned in the first place.
[3/12/2031 6:05 PM:] [Makoto💛] :P Always raining on my parade, aren't you?
[3/12/2031 6:05 PM:] [Makoto💛] I mean, you're right, but it's still fun to think about.
[3/12/2031 6:05 PM:] [Makoto💛] I like to think I can get at least ONE fun thing out of all the horrible stuff that guy did.
[3/12/2031 6:05 PM:] [Fumiko💜] One thing at a time. Celebrate the current birthday first, why don't you?
[3/12/2031 6:06 PM:] [Makoto💛] Alright. Alright. Dw. I will. 😅
[3/12/2031 6:06 PM:] [Makoto💛] Did you hear that Nagisa and co are throwing a party?
[3/12/2031 6:06 PM:] [Fumiko💜] Of course. He told the entire class.
[3/12/2031 6:06 PM:] [Fumiko💜] I still sort of can't believe he didn't invite you.
[3/12/2031 6:06 PM:] [Makoto💛] ...Eh. It's okay. I think he's afraid of the class rejecting him. But that's okay. I don't need his invitation.
[3/12/2031 6:06 PM:] [Makoto💛] I've got a plan for the night all my own. :)
[3/12/2031 6:07 PM:] [Fumiko💜] ...What on earth are you planning?
[3/12/2031 6:07 PM:] [Makoto💛] 🐙 ️ ️
[3/12/2031 6:07 PM:] [Fumiko💜] MAKOTO.
[3/12/2031 6:07 PM:] [Makoto💛] Sorry! Sorry! It's a secret. I can't share. It's gonna be awesome, though. I promise. :3c
[3/12/2031 6:07 PM:] [Fumiko💜] If you say so…
[3/12/2031 6:07 PM:] [Fumiko💜] Just try not to get yourself into too much trouble, okay? Idk what I'd do if you broke your spine.
[3/12/2031 6:08 PM:] [Makoto💛] AWWW. You really do care! 💛💛💛
[3/12/2031 6:08 PM:] [Fumiko💜] ...Of course. You might be a selfish asshole, and an idiot at that, but you're my idiot.
[3/12/2031 6:08 PM:] [Makoto💛] Gee. Thanks.
She can practically hear his laugh over the text.
[3/12/2031 6:08 PM:] [Makoto💛] Sorry again btw. About everything that happened with Kiyoshi.
[3/12/2031 6:08 PM:] [Makoto💛] I know it's in the past but I still feel really bad about not being a good friend.
[3/12/2031 6:09 PM:] [Fumiko💜] It's okay.
[3/12/2031 6:09 PM:] [Fumiko💜] I mean… it's not. But… it is.
[3/12/2031 6:09 PM:] [Fumiko💜] I'm glad you feel bad, at least. Even if it took you a while to come around.
[3/12/2031 6:09 PM:] [Makoto💛] Well… like you said, I AM a big dummy.
Fumiko's still not sure if it's naive for her to believe in him. The way he treated her in the light of what happened to Kiyoshi was outright cruel. All the same… she just can't find it in herself to believe he had bad intentions. He hadn't understood what she was going through. And even though that's no excuse… he does now.
...She really, really thinks he does.
[3/12/2031 6:10 PM:] [Fumiko💜] Not THAT dumb.
[3/12/2031 6:10 PM:] [Fumiko💜] Don't get too down on yourself, either.
[3/12/2031 6:10 PM:] [Fumiko💜] You're… working on it.
It helps a lot more now that she feels that Kiyoshi and Makoto are being honest with her. All the things they discuss still don't exactly make her comfortable, but she'd rather that than be lied to. She needs to understand the full scope of the situation to protect herself. And even if that makes her feel unsettled sometimes, that's a sacrifice she's willing to make.
[3/12/2031 6:10 PM:] [Makoto💛] ...Yeah. I know.
[3/12/2031 6:10 PM:] [Makoto💛] Listen.
[3/12/2031 6:11 PM:] [Makoto💛] I've got plans tonight, but you wanna hang out tomorrow?
[3/12/2031 6:11 PM:] [Makoto💛] To celebrate being friends so long or whatever?
[3/12/2031 6:11 PM:] [Makoto💛] We can go over to Kiyoshi's house. Or ask Nagisa to take us to the movies. Whatever you'd like.
[3/12/2031 6:11 PM:] [Makoto💛] Just… something really nice. To make up for giving you such a bad March 13th last time.
[3/12/2031 6:12 PM:] [Fumiko💜] ...Eh. It wasn't all bad. There are a lot of things from back then I really treasure. Sometimes I think I think about the time you touched me through the glass every day.
[3/12/2031 6:12 PM:] [Fumiko💜] ...Like I said, it's complicated.
[3/12/2031 6:12 PM:] [Fumiko💜] Either way... I'd like that. Meet you at Nagisa's place?
[3/12/2031 6:12 PM:] [Fumiko💜] I'll be there tomorrow morning.
[3/12/2031 6:13 PM:] [Makoto💛] ...Morning?
[3/12/2031 6:13 PM:] [Makoto💛] I thought your parents were still giving you issues?
[3/12/2031 6:13 PM:] [Fumiko💜] Oh… they are. But don't think you're the only one with plans, Himura.
[3/12/2031 6:13 PM:] [Fumiko💜] Turns out I can do a little bit of scheming, too. 😈
[3/12/2031 6:13 PM:] [Makoto💛] ...Ha!
[3/12/2031 6:13 PM:] [Makoto💛] Tell me all about it tomorrow, 'kay? I'll let you know how my night went, too.
[3/12/2031 6:13 PM:] [Fumiko💜] Sounds like a plan.
Makoto types for a long moment. Stops… then starts again. After what feels like an eternity, he says:
[3/12/2031 6:13 PM:] [Makoto💛] I've gotta go now. Things are about to get crazy. But before I do I just wanna say… for transparency's sake or whatever… I'm sorry for getting you killed.
[3/12/2031 6:14 PM:] [Makoto💛] I know I've already said that before but I guess sometimes it feels like you're still mad at me. Which is fine… that makes sense… but it also sometimes feels like you don't believe me. And that's what I can't stand. I'm really… really sorry. I hope you know that. And I... hope you know I'll do everything I can to make it up to you.
[3/12/2031 6:14 PM:] [Fumiko💜] ...Makoto.
[3/12/2031 6:14 PM:] [Fumiko💜] Don't worry. I know.
[3/12/2031 6:14 PM:] [Fumiko💜] I don't want to say it's in the past or that it doesn't matter. It does. But… I'm here now. And that's what matters. I don't hate you.
In some ways… she's even thankful to be the person she is today. What happened to Aguri was horrible… and she might never be over that… but she likes being Fumiko. She likes the person she's become, and she likes feeling brave.
[3/12/2031 6:14 PM:] [Fumiko💜] Least of all for that. At the very least it taught me a lesson.
She starts to grab her stuff. Makoto's right in saying that things are about to get crazy. If her plans have gone off without a hitch her parents will be calling for her any second.
[3/12/2031 6:15 PM:] [Makoto💛] ...That you gotta be the one who looks out for yourself?
[3/12/2031 6:15 PM:] [Fumiko💜] A little, yeah. But mostly no.
[3/12/2031 6:15 PM:] [Fumiko💜] ...I know I've got people watching my back.
[3/12/2031 6:15 PM:] [Fumiko💜] More than anything I think I've just learned that nothing is worth giving myself up for.
[3/12/2031 6:15 PM:] [Makoto💛] I think that's a pretty good lesson. :)
[3/12/2031 6:16 PM:] [Fumiko💜] Yeah.
[3/12/2031 6:16 PM:] [Fumiko💜] Me too.
As she finishes gathering her things she wonders what she should say before she heads out. 'I'm glad we're friends again,' perhaps? Or '...It's funny to see how different we are. I'm proud of us, though'?
Ultimately, she settles on 'Happy honorary birthday, Makoto. I'm glad I've gotten the chance to really see you.'
Makoto texts back with a tenderness and a smile.
'You too.'
And as Fumiko glances out towards her window to stare up at the moon… she wonders, bag slung over her shoulder, if 'being seen' might just be their 'always.'
Gakushuu's always been fiercely protective of Fumiko.
He has to be. In some ways he sees himself in her. In the defensive, closed-off way she holds her head high… and in the way she opens up, too. He watches her… reckless and brash as she's daring for the first time in her life and he sees a person he knew not that long ago. Someone who was scared… and stubborn, but getting better, too.
He supposes that's why he so desperately wants to do something to alleviate her situation. Not only had she come to Karma, Kayano and him all those months ago looking for respite, but she'd looked familiar in doing so... lip trembling and fist-shaking as she spoke.
She's doing better nowadays. They're making baby steps. She's returned to spending three days a week over at Nagisa's house after school now that the Kiyoshi situation is resolved, and she's taking wonderfully to various life skills. Where she'd once have turned her nose up at doing dishes or taking out the garbage she's become independent… diligent… eager to learn.
And he's proud of her. But whenever she doesn't knock down that door on those depressing Thursday afternoons or he watches her go… head held low, he feels something twist in his gut.
She has a plan of attack… a method of escape… and he's thankful for that. But three years is an awfully long time… and that, perhaps, is why he asks her absentmindedly one Tuesday, two days before the class reunion, if her parents would allow him to mentor her.
Fumiko cocks an eyebrow.
"Mentor?"
"Indeed," Gakushuu says. "You know… 'school' you in my business practices. Money management… stocks and so on. I'm something of a big name. I do run the biggest company in the country. Perhaps if I told them I'd taken an interest in your skillset and would like to strike a partnership between the Asano and Hisakawa names they'd be willing to allow me to take you under my wing."
"As wonderful as your plan for the future is, you still have to pass as someone capable of pleasing them for the next three years. I'd be more than capable of helping you put on that charade. Not only that… but if I play my cards right perhaps we'd manage to get you out of that household for even more time than you're already spending. It does break my heart to see you go home, you know. I know you're treated less than well there."
"I'm well aware," Fumiko says with a snort. "Though I sincerely doubt this will work. They're already less than happy with me spending so much time at Shiota-sensei's." She frowns. "They don't want me to be tutored. They wish I was already just good at these things on my own… not someone who needed to be taught."
Gakushuu feels his lip twitch. Nevertheless, Fumiko continues.
"...Still, you can try if you like," she says. "...You're just gonna have to be the one to talk to them. God forbid I ask them, lest they think I'll actually enjoy it."
"Of course," Gakushuu reassures. "Don't fret. I'll take care of everything." He stands and brushes himself off, before turning his phone to Fumiko. "This is your father's number, correct? Would he be available at this hour?"
"Now?" Fumiko asks, but soon gives a tiny nod. "That's... uh... him, yeah," she says. "As for his availability, though... I'm not sure. That is his personal number, so you'll probably have an easier time getting a hold of him, but…" she drifts off. "...Wait. How did you get that?"
"Nagisa," Gakushuu replies simply. "Don't worry. I did not doxx him." He shrugs. "In regards to whether or not we'll manage to get a hold of him, however, I suppose all we can do is try. If he doesn't pick up then there will always be another time."
He's quiet for a moment, thinking. "Before I do this... I do wish to once more ask for your explicit permission. I don't think you will get in trouble for this - I'll be careful not to mention your involvement - but you know your parents better than anyone else. This won't put you in danger, will it?"
"I... don't think so," Fumiko replies. "I mean... I still don't think they're just going to give you what you want but I don't think they're going to take this out on me for once either. You're a billionaire CEO. They want to hear praise from people like you."
"And praise I will give," Gakushuu reassures. "I'll slather you in it. Perhaps even if I don't 'get my way' I will get some positive feedback in for you. Which, for the record, is all I could ask to possibly achieve."
"...Go ahead, then," Fumiko says. "...At the very least this will make for an interesting conversation."
Nodding, Gakushuu calls up Fumiko's father. He holds his finger up to his lip- a reminder for Fumiko to stay quiet throughout the entirety of this conversation - as the phone buzzes. He worries for a moment that Mr. Hisakawa won't pick up, but after what feels like forever there's a crackle at the other end of the line and an irritated voice speaks up.
"Who is this?" it demands. "I'm not sure how you got this number, but I most certainly did not give it out to you. I am not open to solicitors or nonsense, so make your purpose known immediately. And if this is a business matter then please follow due process and contact us through the Hisakawa support desk. We do not have time for-"
"This is in no way a business matter," Gakushuu interrupts. "At least… not primarily. My name is Gakushuu. Gakushuu Asano, and I'd like to talk with you about your daughter."
There's a sort of stunned silence on the other end of the line... a panicked shuffling before a skeptical "That Gakushuu Asano?"
"The one and only," Gakushuu replies. "I obtained your number through Nagisa Shiota. I hope that's not a problem?"
"No! No! Not at all!" Another long pause. "...So I see he really wasn't making it up that you were his… friend. I'll be damned."
There's a sort of willful ignorance to his voice. 'Friend' is… certainly a word to use to describe a man that Gakushuu makes out with every night, but that's besides the point. It's more than evident Mr. Hisakawa's tone has shifted… and in an instant, at that! Where he'd previously been standoffish and stern, now he seems almost in awe.
Fumiko gives Gakushuu an impressed look. It's more than clear she's never seen her father like this before. Even Nagisa hadn't been able to get through to him like this. But Gakushuu? He has something even Nagisa doesn't. And that's a boatload of influence. Now that will earn him a little bit of sucking up, and he hasn't even begun to cast his real magic yet.
"That said-" Mr. Hisakawa says, returning, barely, to his usual composure. "What have you called to discuss? If Fumiko's given you any problems then just let me know. She can be a delinquent, that girl. But I am so sorry if she's troubled you, and I can reassure you I will have her punished swiftly if she's shown you so much as an ounce of disrespect."
"No. There's no need to worry about that," Gakushuu quickly reassures, placing a firm hand on Fumiko's shoulder. "I'm… actually here to discuss the girl's aptitude. Is your wife available? I have a proposition to make."
Cautious, Mr. Hisakawa calls for his wife. She initially seems irritated, but as he whispers the name 'Gakushuu Asano' her tune, too, seems to shift some.
Carefully… Gakushuu explains his proposition: an... internship of sorts for Fumiko… where she'd spend time with him after school studying things like big business practice and stocks. He reassures them he can give her the real-life experience she'll need on things such as managerial decisions… and not to mention bolster her resume.
"All for free of course. If you'd be interested, that is."
He gives an innocent smile… steeples his fingers. The Hisakawas can't see it, but it's on instinct, almost.
Admittedly… they're skeptical.
"For… free," Mr. Hisakawa repeats. "Surely you can't be serious. There have to be some strings attached. Your company is single-handedly the biggest in the country!"
"Oh, trust me…" Gakushuu says cordially, "...I know. Nevertheless… heavens, no. There are no strings attached. I'm wounded you'd think such a thing, frankly!" He pauses… pouts. "...Don't tell me you're not interested in the proposition…-"
"No! No! Of course not!" Mr. Hisakawa reassures. "I suppose I'm just… perplexed. Fumiko is not exactly the ideal young woman. Why would you be interested in taking someone like her under your wing?"
"I hardly know what you mean!" Gakushuu exclaims. "I've observed your daughter for the past year… stopping by as my husband tutors her, and truly, I'm in awe. She is a bright young woman with a wonderful understanding of economics. A jack of all trades… proficient in not only all of her classes, but in several extracurricular subjects. All the hard work you've put into raising her… making sure she's mastered such skills… it's breathtaking. I can tell you put parenting first and foremost."
His jolly tone never once wavers, even as he turns towards Fumiko to make a gagging motion and over-exaggeratedly roll his eyes.
"Well… yes," Mrs. Hisakawa says, the flattery taking hold. "Surely! And we're honored you think so. But…" she pauses. "Our other daughters are much more skilled, we reassure you. They have all been taught in the same way as Fumiko here. Are you sure you're not more interested in taking our sixteen-year-old or nineteen-year-old under your wing?"
"Certain," Gakushuu says. "As wonderful as I'm sure your other daughters are, I see a spark of greatness in this girl. It would be a crime for me to smother that." He cocks his head. "Not to mention a lost business opportunity. I believe we both could benefit greatly from your daughter having a position at my company in the future. Surely you agree?"
"Yes! Yes!" Mr. Hisakawa interjects. "Of course! This is a connection we'd hate to let go to waste. All the same…" he pauses. "Fumiko is already a very busy girl. Not only is she being tutored three times a week but she's enrolled in various after school activities. These are not hobbies we want her to start slacking off on. We'll have to pore over her schedule very diligently before we make any decisions."
"As you should," Gakushuu says. "That girl's future is deeply important. Although now you've piqued my curiosity. What sort of activities does she engage in?"
"Oh… a variety," Mr. Hisakawa explains, a sudden pride to his voice (Although likely more at his own choice of afterschool activities than at his daughter's proficiency in them) "Not only is she studying flower-arrangement and fashion design, but she's able to play the viola, the piano, and speak French. We have an interest in teaching her Latin and Chinese as well one day, but as I'm sure you know she's a somewhat slow learner."
"Ah, français! Tu attache un grande valuer à être polyglotte aussi! Pas de soucis cependant! Je crois que je pourrais l'aider avec ça."
"A… ah!" Mr. Hisakawa comments. "So you're fluent in French!"
"Oui," Gakushuu boasts. "Not to mention Latin, Chinese, Spanish, English, Russian, German, Korean, Vietnamese, Dutch, Filipino, Arabic and Portuguese." He laughs lightly, counting on his fingers as he speaks. "I'm something of a superhuman, I'll have you know. Perhaps I could take care of your daughter's French lessons."
"Now that I think about it…" he continues. "I believe I could actually assist with most of the things you mentioned. While I'm no expert in flower arrangement I dabbled back during my third year… and I'm something of a fashion expert. Surely you've seen our clothes line. Then… as for instruments…" he grins. "While I prefer the guitar I actually know how to play every kind. If you haven't heard my orchestral charity concert you simply must. It's a joy."
There's a stunned silence on the other end of the line. When Mrs. Hisakawa finally speaks up, it's in what seems to be utter disbelief.
"You can't seriously be offering to…-"
"Oh! But I am!" Gakushuu interjects. "I am more than interested in your daughter's future. Not to mention leagues above the average tutor. Surely I could give her coaching better than anyone else. Are you not interested? Or god forbid… do you not believe me?" He bats his eyelashes. "I can send you my portfolio if need be!"
"No! No! Of course not!" Mr. Hisakawa reassures, speaking up over his wife. "We're well aware you're capable of those things… you ARE an Asano after all… but I must wonder… what is in this for you? Are you offering up those services for free as well?"
Gakushuu's nose wrinkles. He furrows his brow… shifts slightly and puts on his best troubled expression. Fumiko's looking at him like he's a crazy person, but he pays no mind. He's something of a natural when it comes to getting into people's heads.
"Has anyone ever told you not to look a gift horse in the mouth, Hisakawa-san?" he asks. "While you're correct in your assumption that I cannot offer you these services for free, I'm sure I could offer you a lofty discount seeing as how we're friends and all. As for why I'm going so out of my way…" he shakes his head. "There is something in this for me! And that's a valuable future employee!"
"Well…" Mr. Hisakawa seems tempted. "That is a tantalizing offer. What sort of price would you charge?"
Gakushuu thinks it over for a moment, before deciding on "...8,000 yen a month per activity? I know that's still a rather substantial price, but I can reassure you it's far cheaper an option than any of my competitors will offer. Not to mention bright on a resume! Tutored personally by Gakushuu Asano? Now that's a mark of excellence!"
There's a long moment of silence before Mr. Hisakawa asks "Can we have a moment to discuss this in private? I believe there are some things we must go over."
"Of course!" Gakushuu says. "No worries. Take as long as you need. I'll wait right here."
He holds his finger up once more, reminding Fumiko to stay quiet. After what feels like forever the Hisakawas finally return, a hesitance to their tone.
"I… believe we would be interested," Mr. Hisakawa admits. "As you said this is the partnership opportunity of a lifetime… and something good for the girl's resume, but…" He pauses. "I again must warn you that Fumiko is… disobedient at best. Are you sure this is a decision you're willing to stick with? While she may seem well behaved in front of Shiota-san, she is more than capable of being insubordinate and troublesome. Can you handle that? We do not want to cancel her other after school activities only for you to back out because you cannot handle her."
Quietly… Gakushuu steeples his fingers. He gives Fumiko another sympathetic look… shaking his head, before turning back towards the phone. He frowns… and all at once his aura seems to darken.
"Hisakawa-san…" he says. "...Are you aware of who my father is?"
Where before he'd been nonchalant… polite, and almost frighteningly friendly… now he's turned ominous. There's a deadly seriousness to his tone.
"...Gakuho Asano, correct?"
"Indeed. And so I see you do know. Why, then…" he asks. "...Do you have the audacity to question my ability to deal with unruly children?" His voice is electric… draconian and accusatory. His lip draws back as he speaks.
"My father was the pioneer of schools for undisciplined children. And while I myself am not a teacher I am more than capable of brandishing the Asano name. Not only do I know how to break a child's spirit, but I know how to do so with efficiency and grace. I can reassure you that by the time I am done with your daughter her skills will not only be polished to their utmost ability, but any spark of rebellion will have been long since snuffed out. This is… not my first rodeo, so to speak."
What to say comes to him surprisingly naturally. He may be talking out his ass… after all, he certainly doesn't believe those things, but he did at one point! He knows exactly what people like this want to hear. And he knows exactly what sort of people they, in turn, look up to.
For a moment he worries they may not believe him, but as he hears a frightened 'eep' on the other end of the line he knows he's gotten them hook, line, and sinker. After all… he has been told he's somewhat of a threatening guy.
('Ha' he thinks, smirking. And so what he told Kiyoshi had been correct. It's not your evil-vs-non-evil skill sets that matter, but rather just how cleverly you end up putting them to use.)
"I… I apologize for my skepticism!" Mr. Hisakawa responds, a sense of shame to his tone. "I in no way meant to doubt you. I simply worried for you, but now I see you're more than well equipped…" he drifts off. "Which… in any case I suppose means the answer is 'yes.' We would be more than relieved for you to take our daughter off of our hands."
Where usually they'd make threats… say 'we better see results,' they don't dare to Gakushuu. Not just out of fear, but additionally because they truly believe him! Where Nagisa has a sense of hesitancy to his discipline, there's no such thing with Gakushuu. It's more than easy to believe he'd follow through with those threats. Just look at him!
"Wonderful!" he replies, returning swiftly to that jolly demeanor. "I'm glad to see the two of you come around! Now that that matter's out of the way why don't we discuss the rest of this over email? I'm sure we can get a schedule and a payment plan worked out in no time! Unless you have any further questions?"
"N… no. I don't believe so-" Mr. Hisakawa murmurs. He sounds like he has something more to say, but Gakushuu's way ahead of him.
"Very well then! In that case I'll be hanging up. I'm very busy with work… I'm sure you understand." He beams. "Please contact me at AsanoGakushuu as soon as possible! Thanks for hearing me out, and I'll be seeing you again soon!"
Before they can protest he's already hung up. Taking a deep breath he pockets his phone and attempts to return to his usual demeanor.
"Holy hell," Fumiko says.
And in an instant Gakushuu's cheeks flush red. It's only then that he realizes just how menacing he must be coming off as. Quickly he shakes his head, giving her a reassuring look.
"Do not worry," he says. "I have no intent to 'break your spirit.' I simply said what I needed to to convince them."
"I'm aware," Fumiko says. "I'm not scared of you. But still.. what the hell just happened, exactly? You became an entirely different person!"
"Well…" Gakushuu admits. "I am rather adept at flipping a switch. While I may not be as much of an actor as your sister, I have some experience where needed."
"Damn right," Fumiko says. "I didn't expect that to work at all, much less for you to get me out of all my after school activities. Did you seriously just scam my parents?"
"I did not scam them," Gakushuu refutes. "Not only did I give them quite a discount for my skill level, but I fully intend to teach you everything I said I would. The last thing we need is you getting caught or me getting sued."
"Touche," Fumiko says, shoulders sinking. "But you can't seriously mean you actually know how to do all those things-"
"Oh! But I do~!" Gakushuu boasts.
"You speak all of those languages?"
"Mmmyes."
"And the viola-"
"All of it. The viola. The piano. The French and the Latin. Do I need to demonstrate my flower arranging abilities to you?"
"A… ah… no," Fumiko admits, before rolling her eyes. "...Jesus christ, you really are inhuman." She pauses. "All the same… thank you. Not just for trying to get me out of that situation, but for holding me to that standard." She shifts slightly. "...As much as I hate the way my parents treat me the last thing I want is to just slack off and goof around."
"Understandably," Gakushuu says. "And I would never underestimate you like that. I value your skillsets and your education, Fumiko. I just want you to foster them in a space that's not…" he hesitates. "...Abusive."
Her brow seems to furrow slightly at the assessment. All the same… she doesn't argue, simply flops over on his shoulder and asks him "What do you plan to do with all the money?"
"Pardon?"
"You're already rich," she points out. "The last thing you need is even more money."
"Ah…" he says. "I suppose I didn't think it through. I just thought it would come off as suspicious if I offered to do everything for free." He brings his hand to his chin, stroking it absentmindedly. "Perhaps… a college fund for you."
Fumiko jolts.
"Fucking excuse me!? You're just giving it to me!?"
"I am not just giving it to you," Gakushuu responds. "If I were 'giving it to you' I'd be writing you a check so you could go and spend it on Nerf Guns or bad T-shirts or whatever it is you kids like. Instead, I'll be depositing this somewhere private. Your plan is to get disowned by your parents in the future, yes?"
Fumiko frowns, but nods.
"Then you won't have them to lean on in regards to your future. It's best to start saving up now. And to obtain that funding from them, even without their full knowledge… well…-" he smirks. "It's a nice way to force them to do something to support their daughter."
Fumiko's eyes grow wide… but even so, she laughs. Almost in disbelief, she asks "You really are crazy, aren't you!?"
"Not crazy," Gakushuu says, tapping his forehead. "Clever."
And despite her skepticism Fumiko thanks him what feels like a thousand times. Gakushuu reassures her that it's nothing. After all, he's just doing what he set out to do at the start of the year.
...Be there for these kids in the way Korosensei wasn't there for him.
Her first 'lesson' ends up being on the 12th. It's nice timing, really. It gives him some company on a night when he'd otherwise be alone, and Fumiko seems to be happy to celebrate holy-shit-the-moon-blew-up eve with a friend. She shows up maybe a half-hour before Nagisa and co head out… fussing over them and reminding them not to do anything stupid.
"We won't. Don't worry," Kayano reassures, reaching for her jacket.
"You won't," Karma replies. "Me? I'm getting blackout drunk and getting in a fistfight with Terasaka. A man's gotta live a little, you know."
"You can crack your head open for all I care," Fumiko retorts, rolling her eyes.
"Keep an eye on him, will you?" Gakushuu asks, turning towards Nagisa. "The last thing we need is this asshole getting sent to the ER."
"Yeah. Don't worry about it," Nagisa reassures with a laugh. "I'm on babysitting duty."
"Besides… you know I'm just pulling your leg," Karma chides. "It's not every day I get to see you worried about me."
"Worried is a strong word," Gakushuu snarks, but upon Karma's pout he relents. "...Okay. Yeah, whatever. You've got me." He shakes his head. "Stay safe, alright? And have fun."
"You too!" Nagisa says.
"Make sure to take care of Fumiko," Kayano adds on.
"You kidding?" Karma asks, taking a step towards Fumiko. "Fumiko, you take care of Gakushuu."
She gives him a diligent salute. "I most certainly will."
With that, they're off. Gakushuu gives Nagisa and Karma a final kiss in the doorway and Kayano a firm pat on the back... then they're gone. He and Fumiko stand in the doorway and watch them pile into the car before turning to one another with a smile.
"Let's get to it, shall we?" He asks.
Fumiko cracks her knuckles
"Let's."
Nagisa and co arrive at the E-Class building at half-past six. It's a little early, but seeing as how Nagisa's one of the people running the event they figure it's best they're on top of it. Besides… they're hardly even the first ones there. They meet up with Megu climbing up the mountain, and when they reach the top Isogai and Maehara are already waiting for them.
Kayano shakes their hands… asking them how they've been. They tell her they've been good as they cart everything inside. Naoko's talking more and more, and she's even starting to take her first steps! Nagisa smiles as he listens in… placing his bags down beside his desk.
Kimura is the next to arrive, and soon after him Kurahashi. Mimura, Yada, Okano… each is overjoyed to see the others, and as Nagisa approaches to ask how they've been, he's met with a set of ecstatic grins.
"I love how you've got the place!" Kurahashi says. "How have the students been?"
"Oh," Nagisa replies with a laugh. "They've been awesome. Don't worry. What about you? How are the nature tours?"
"Amazing!" she replies, her eyes seeming to light up. "You will never guess what we saw in the wild the other day."
They make small talk for a bit… discussing Kurahashi's career and Mimura's latest sort-of-lame haircut. But as Nagisa spots Sugino peek into the building he excuses himself for just a moment. After all… what sort of friend would he be if he didn't say hello?
"Sugino!" he shouts, giving a big wave. "Nice to see you! Was the drive over alright?"
Admittedly they don't have a ton to catch up on… he sees Sugino pretty regularly. Still, it's always nice to spend time with his bestie.
"Oh?" Sugino says. "Yeah! There was pretty much... like, no traffic. You know how it is getting down here." He laughs. "What about you? I know it's only like a five-minute drive, but did everyone behave? Or did Karma try blaring Gasolina from the car again?"
"Nah," Nagisa says. "For once he's been pretty beha-"
"And to think I almost forgot!"
Sugino jumps as Karma appears behind him.
"Nah. I haven't done anything crazy yet. Why? You got any ideas for the return trip?"
Sugino gives him an unimpressed look.
"No. Not really," he admits. "You don't pick on Nagisa, okay? I will call you out on the Jumbotron."
"Aw… you give me so little credit," Karma admits with a pout. "Don't worry. I'll be on my best behavior. The last thing I as a morally bankrupt politician need is some sports star tarnishing my good name." As if just to annoy Sugino, he slings his arm around Nagisa. "Besides. You know I'd never really pick on him. I love him."
Sugino rolls his eyes, but even he knows better than to argue with that.
Kanzaki is next. Nagisa and co make sure to give her a warm welcome. Kayano says she's as beautiful as ever, and it's just as she's about to put down her things… still flustered, that Nagisa feels something slap Karma's back.
"Hey asshole! Sorry I'm late. How've you been?!"
The force nearly about sends Nagisa bowling over with how Karma's got himself draped across him. But thankfully he manages to catch himself last second... turning to Rio and giving an awkward laugh.
"Good!" Karma replies, slipping away from Nagisa. "And what about you? Nice to see you're as much of a dipshit as usual."
"Gee… thanks," Rio replies with a smirk. "I've been thriving, of course. England is as lively as ever. Like I said in the group chat: I only just got back."
"Where's Okuda?" Kayano pipes up.
"Oh… she's still on her way," Rio admits with a shrug. "Said she was still working on that surprise for the class. Don't worry, though. I know her. She won't keep us waiting."
"And so you seriously don't know anything about it?" Kayano asks.
"Nope! She said she wanted to give everyone a surprise. Your guess is as good as mine."
"Like hell it is," Karma says. "I know you, Nakamura. And I know you've gotta have some sort of information up your sleeve."
"Okay," Rio admits with a blush and a mischievous smirk. "Maybe a little… but I can't share anything, okay!? All you've gotta know is that it's awesome."
"Oh come on!"
Karma reaches out an arm to grab her and pin her to his side, but it's no use. No matter how hard he noogies her hair or demands she share with the class, Rio's a master of tactical warfare, and she will not collapse under the pressure of this garden-variety torment.
Nagisa, Sugino, and Kayano decide to regroup with Kurahashi and the other 'fucking normal people.' Still… even as he rolls his eyes, Nagisa smiles. He knows the two of them care about each other. And when you're the sort of menaces they are… then… well…
(He watches Rio kick Karma in the shins)
...That's just how you say 'I missed you.'
When Muramatsu shows up it's with ramen. He admits he knows Isogai already brought snacks, but he thought everyone could use the extra treat. Isogai tells him that's more than welcome, and even helps Muramatsu carry it over to the desk with a jovial smile.
Fuwa's soon after… throwing up a peace sign as she enters the room. Hazama shows up in a gothic but beautiful dress that's maybe a little too formal for the occasion. Hayami and Chiba enter the room hand in hand… and when Yoshida peeks his head in through the door Hara just about knocks him over with a hug.
The party is getting started… and the atmosphere in the E-Class building soon lights up. As Megu and Isogai begin to set out the food some people unfurl their sleeping bags. Karma, meanwhile, pops open a bottle of beer and makes sure to shoot the cork directly at Terasaka's head as he enters the room.
"The shit's wrong with you?" he demands, rubbing at his forehead. Still... Muramatsu, Hazama, and Yoshida burst into laughter at his debacle, and before Terasaka knows what he's doing he's laughing too.
"Give me one of those, will you?" he demands, butting past Karma and making his way over to the cooler. "I'm gonna fucken' need it if I'm spending the night in the same building as you."
"Suit yourself!" Karma says with a bow. "Personally, I'd love to see you get blackout drunk."
Terasaka grumbles, but plops himself down and drinks like it's the end of the world nevertheless.
Okajima is the next to show up. Just about everyone groans as he enters the room, but if they really wanted to kick him out something tells them they would have done it a long time ago. Besides… Sugaya's on his coattails, and he's always a pleasant surprise to see.
Which means… Okuda, Takebayashi, and Itona are the only ones who haven't shown up, right? Nagisa wonders if it has to do something with the surprise. Itona hadn't said anything about being involved... but it's weird for him to not show up with Terasaka.
He walks over to him, frowning.
"Hey. Do you know where Itona is?" he asks. "I'd assumed the two of you were coming together."
"We did," Terasaka says. "We just had to split at the base of the mountain. He had something he needed to unpack from the car and he didn't want me to see." He shrugs. "I wouldn't question it. He's a pretty weird guy. But don't be worried about him skipping out. He should be here any minute."
"...Alright," Nagisa says. "That's good."
With that… he retreats. He shoots a glance at his phone.
"Hey. Ritsu. Are you there? I was wondering if you could check up on Takebayashi and Okuda. I want to make sure that they're on their-…" he drifts off. "...Ritsu?"
To his surprise, she doesn't pop up on his screen. He's pretty used to her listening in at all times, so that's… strange. He gives his phone a shake, repeating her name… but, still, nothing. He turns to the rest of the class, cupping his mouth with his hands.
"Hey. Has anyone seen Ritsu? I can't get in touch with her."
"Eh?" Kanzaki asks. "You mean she's missing?"
"Well… not necessarily," Nagisa admits. "But she'd usually be here by now. It's not like she has to drive."
"Huh," Maehara says, cupping his chin with his hand. "It could be the spotty internet you've got up here, maybe?"
"Yeah," Nagisa says. "But she's never had trouble showing up in the past."
...He doesn't know why, but he's starting to get a weird feeling about this. Itona… Takebayashi… Okuda… Ritsu… what do they all have in common? They are really smart… could it be the four of them planning something?
"Guys… I-"
"I'd just give her time," Hayami interjects. "She's an AI. Maybe some technical difficulties came up. Besides… it's only 7:20. What could she possibly be occupied with doin-?"
"Did we keep you waiting!?"
"Nevermind," Hayami admits, shoulders sinking. "They're definitely up to some weird fucking shit."
Looking strangely confident, Takebayashi stands in the doorway… arms out and basking in the light of the classroom. Okuda's right behind him: a polite, if not slightly embarrassed expression on her face. She gives them a wave.
"Hey!" she says. "Sorry we're late! We just had to get all of the last-minute preparations out of the way. Hope we didn't miss too much…"
"Not at all," Karma reassures. "But you and four eyes over there have got us on the edge of our seats. What on earth have you been cooking up?"
"F… four eyes?" Takebayashi mutters, but soon returns to his senses. "For your information red… head... we've been 'cooking up' something revolutionary. And something we decided it would be for the best to show it off to the E-Class before anyone else. I hope you're prepared! Because you're about to see something awesome."
He steps to the side, dramatically pushing his glasses up the bridge of his nose. Okuda follows soon after… but is quick to clarify for everyone's sake:
"We'll… we'll explain more once you see it, okay!? Everything might not make a lot of sense at first, but - uh! Trust me when I say it'll come off as a lot more cool if it takes you by surprise! I… I really like what we managed to come up with! And I hope you like it too!"
She bows her head and gives a nervous smile. Before the E-Class can dwell on what she possibly means they hear the sound of footsteps. And dramatically… the last two members of their posse make their arrival.
First up is Itona. With his usual bandana around his head, he's as serious looking as ever. He's hardly the object of attention, however… as it's the person who trails after him that really catches the E-Class's attention.
At first she seems unfamiliar… the woman that follows after Itona. But as they catch sight of her lavender locks… of the way her bright blue eyes glow and of the silver headband parting her hair there's a sort of collective gasp. Nagisa does a double-take. Karma knocks over his drink. And abruptly… the whole. Class. Freezes.
"RITSU!?"
"The one and only!" the woman says, giving a slight bow. "Sorry for keeping you all in the dark! We just wanted it to be a surprise!"
"I… you… - WHAT!?"
"SHE'S NOT IN A BOX!"
In an instant the class breaks out into chaos; everyone speaking up over one another they scramble to get in closer. They toss chairs to the side and make a mad dash across the room. But even as they get a better view of their newfound friend, it only serves to reinforce their suspicions.
There's… there's no way in hell…!
But… it has to be!
"It's really you!"
"What the fuck did you four do!?"
"Did she possess someone!?"
"Eep! Eeeep! No!" Okuda yelps, flinching back at the sudden stampede. "We'll explain everything! Just sit down! Please!" She holds her hands up in front of her face. "I'm sorry for any confusion!"
The class hesitates… but does eventually take a step back. As alluring as literally all of this is the last thing they'd want to do is make her uncomfortable. Instead… staring intensely, they wait for her to go on.
"In… in case you're wondering," she says. "Yes, this really is Ritsu. And no. She didn't possess anyone." She sends Takebayashi a nervous glance, as if urging him to go on.
"Recently," He says. "There have been some… interesting developments in the medical field. Namely in regards to human DNA and how we understand it. As far back as 2016 scientists have been studying things such as lab-grown skin and artificial nerves. While this is mostly used for actual medical purposes, such as treating burn victims, Okuda and I began to wonder if it could be used for other purposes. Namely… assisting a friend of ours."
"Of course," Okuda interrupts. "Knowing how to make skin cells and other basic human cells is a far cry from being able to create an actual person. Not only would that be unethical, but it'd also be borderline impossible. Thankfully for us, however… medical science isn't the only science that's advanced leaps and bounds in the past fifteen years! Things such as programming and engineering have also come a long, long way. And that's when we decided to get in contact with Itona."
"My guy Itona here," Takebayashi says, slinging an arm around Itona. "Is sort of an expert in that stuff. He can build just about anything if given the time and resources. Which is why we commissioned him to build a skeleton of sorts for Ritsu. We'd take care of the nitty gritty realism… he'd take care of making sure it works."
"Skeleton," Megu repeats, still in disbelief. "You're telling me that's...-"
"A robot," Itona clarifies.
"While on the outside she's flesh and blood," Takebayashi continues. "On the inside she's all cogs and gears. Ritsu hasn't possessed anyone. She's simply received a much-needed upgrade to her physical form." He grins. "Not that you could ever tell. Feel her, I dare you! Itona, Okuda and I did some expert work. You will not be able to tell she's a robot even if you try."
Murmuring… the E-Class reaches out to touch her. Ritsu holds out an arm, looking somewhat embarrassed.
"Wow…" Rio says, squeezing her hand. "...And here I was thinking this was some weird sex pervert thing from the way you were talking about it! Turns out you were actually creating some sort of deranged flesh homunculus!"
"Are you kidding!?" Terasaka demands, pointing to Takebayashi. "Listen to the way he's talking about it! This is 100% some kind of weird sex pervert thing! Why else would he want us to touch her!? "
"To showcase how cool it is!" Takeyabashi yelps, looking rather offended. "This is in no way a 'weird sex pervert thing!' Okuda and I only had the most wholesome intentions! Besides…! You know I prefer 2D women, anyways! Why would I need a sex homunculus in the first place!?"
"I don't know!" Terasaka replies. "I'm just used to some really fuckin' weird shit from you!"
"A-ah! No!" Okuda reassures. "I promise it's nothing like that! As… condemning as everything about Takeyabashi's involvement may seem." She shifts slightly. "The real intent behind us setting out on this venture was actually just to help Ritsu."
Takebayashi nods. "She… expressed to us that she had been rather lonely for the past 15 years. There is something truly isolating about experiencing the full scope of human emotions while not living a truly human life. While she loves us more than anything we're all she's had for a very, very long time. While we've grown up… moved on to bigger and better things, Ritsu's been stuck where she was pretty much. We wanted to change that."
"Now she can do things she never did before!" Okuda pipes up. "Like make friends outside of us. Dance… try foods… feel the breeze on her skin."
"We still have a lot of work to do legally," Takebayashi says. "...Like figuring if we want to license this technology out to other companies or if Ritsu qualifies as a 'person' in the eyes of the law. But as for now… what mattered most was just making sure she was finally comfortable in her own skin. All of the other jargon can wait."
Ritsu gives them another smile. Despite that slight nervousness, she seems happy, too. It's the most relieved they've seen her in a long time,
They start to murmur in approval. But as breathtaking as this entire situation is, everyone still has a few questions.
"...Feel the breeze on her skin… try foods…?" Isogai repeats. "You mean she…-?"
"Like I said: nerves! Tastebuds! All of it: lab grown," Takebayashi clarifies. "She has full sensory input hooked up to her processor. This is some of the most advanced technology on the planet. Impressed yet?"
"Of… of course!" Kurahashi exclaims.
"Congrats, Ritsu!" Kayano adds on. "That's so cool!"
Fuwa laughs. "We're so happy for you!"
The atmosphere in the room quickly starts to lighten up. As the confusion fades it's replaced with a sense of familiarity… of friendliness… and Ritsu's expression glows.
"Thank you!" she says. "Like Takebayashi said… we still have a lot of stuff to workshop, but… I'm feeling really happy about this. I've already experienced so many things I wasn't able to before. And I'm excited to see what I'll be able to experience in the future." She pauses. "You know… something I still haven't experienced yet is a hug. If you don't mind indulging me, why don't we make sure these nerves really work?"
She doesn't need to ask that twice. Before she can even tilt her head and smile they're on her. The E-Class fights to be the first to wrap her in a hug… and as Nagisa feels her surprisingly realistic flesh, he notes that she's even warm to the touch. She relaxes into their embrace… and for a second there's a moment of pure silence… the class simply basking in the wonder of what their friends have managed to accomplish.
That's when there's a bang.
Abrupt- like something's slammed itself against the underside of something metal. A brief scrambling of shoes against hardwood... and a chair flung to the side as a surprisingly familiar figure crawls out from underneath Nagisa's desk.
"Oh, come on! You're hugging her!? I was gonna wait until the end of the reunion to surprise you all, but there's no fucking way, man!"
That's when every eye in the classroom darts towards Makoto Himura, and Nagisa feels his heart drop to his stomach.