Chapter 8: First Encounter

30 minutes earlier

It's been 5 minutes since Monika started… To Mitzu and I, It's felt like hours. Every second feels Excruciating, knowing that Sayori's out there somewhere and we can't do anything about it for the moment. Hell, we don't even know what the danger is!

My anxiousness and nervousness right now is at an all time high. I've started tapping my foot on the floor and tapping the counter top with my pointer finger. Jeez, this is like when you start school for the 1st time when you're a little kid. But we don't have any parents to cry to right now. We're alone on this.

Mitzu noticed the state I was in and started to pat my back to comfort me. It helped a little but without knowing what's ahead of us, I just can't stop being nervous… Damn, I just gave him the most motivational speech I could muster and yet, I'm sitting here shaking like a dishwasher…

To help calm me down some, I glance back into the living room to Monika. Like always, I get put at ease by looking at her. I haven't thought of it until now, but I think the reason why I find her so comforting to look at is due to the large amount of time I've spent getting lost in her eyes. Albeit, that was through a monitor.

To help pass the time, Mitzu had quickly made us some turkey, ham, cheese, and tomato sandwiches. He handed me my plate as he took his seat. We both began nibbling away at our sandwiches. With how my emotions are swirling right now, I'm not able to take larger bites.

After a few moments of silence, Mitzu started talking…

[Mitzu] "Sooo… I've caught you staring at Monika a lot while she's been working…"

My face got a bit red, assuming he was taking it the wrong way…

[Zero] "N-No! You're taking it the wrong way!"

[Mitzu] "Hehehe… I'm just Messing with ya. On a real note, I take it you're staring because of what you said earlier. If so, I totally get what you mean."

[Zero] "Yeah… I've never had a person that I've loved like Monika. But, I just can't get enough of seeing her… It feels like every time I look at her, all my problems just melt away… Like I said, I'm not familiar with love like this but… If this isn't true love, then I don't know what is."

While swallowing a bite of his sandwich, Mitzu nods before speaking…

[Mitzu] "Ya know… That's kinda how I feel about Sayori. With the combination of her beauty, personality and the fact she's a ball of sunshine, I just feel better when she's around…"

Mitzu lowered his head while sighing heavily. After a moment however, he lifted his head back up and finished the rest of his sandwich before speaking again…

[Mitzu] "Knowing that my little ball of sunshine is out there right now may have made me wanna give up but, Knowing that she can still be saved is giving me the drive to keep going… No matter what happens, she will be safe and happy."

I'm glad Mitzu's finally gotten into a good state of mind with all the self motivation he's giving himself. I smile and nod my head before going back to nibbling my sandwich.

. . .

Mitzu and I had gone quiet again as I finished the rest of my sandwich. I was about to speak again only to hear Monika yell…

[Monika] "I FOUND HER!"

I was completely caught off guard and almost fell out of my seat. Mitzu jumped up and started for the living room. I followed behind him quickly.

[Mitzu] "Where is she?!"

Without saying anything, a small device with a blue screen appeared in Monika's hand. We both leaned over to see what appears to be a map of the city. There's 3 red dots, presumably us. one certain area, not too far from us has a 4th dot.

[Mitzu] "Is that her?!"

Mitzu said while pointing at the 4th dot. Monika replied with a quick nod as she stood up and sprinted towards the door. Mitzu and I followed her until she stopped at the door before opening it.

[Zero] "Monika?"

[Monika] "Z-Zero… I just want to say… that whatever happens… I'll always love you."

My heart begins to ache as she's talking like something bad will happen.

[Zero] "Monika… I love you too but, nothing bad is gonna happen. We're going to save Sayori and get home safe."

Monika still looked a bit unsure. I took her hands in mine and leaned my forehead on hers. Monika stared into my eyes as I did the same. In a soft voice I said...

[Zero] "Moni, I promise we'll get back home safe… And when we do, we have that date to look forward to. And that day where we louse around. I don't know about you but, I can't wait…"

Bringing up our plans seems to make her a bit happier. Once I see a small smile on her face, I lean in and give her a quick kiss on the lips before pulling away and opening the door. Monika walks out with a now determined look on her face…

[Zero] "Now… How are we planning on getting there?"

Monika put her hand on her chin as she thought.

. . .

[Mitzu] "I got it! Monika, are you able to spawn in a vehicle?"

Monika closed her eyes for a moment. A few seconds later and she opened her eyes. She shook her head as she sighed. Well shit, running might take too long. While it's not too far, it would still be an almost 10 minute run.

[Mitzu] "Ummm… We could steal a car…"

[Zero] "What?! Hell no!"

[Mituz] "Well do you have any other ideas?"

No… I sigh since there really is no other option. Public transport won't work. Buses will be stopping every so often so it'll most likely take too long. The train would only take us farther away from our destination. And a taxi would take time to get to us. Time we don't have.

[Mitzu] "We have no other choice. And we'll return whoever's car we steal."

With that, Mitzu began to walk down the street to look for a suitable vehicle. Monika and I followed for some time until we spotted a car with the window rolled down. Coincidence?!

We ran to the car as Mitzu unlocked it and hopped in the driver's seat. Monika got in the passenger seat while I hopped in the back. The car is a mid 2000's, Gray sedan.

Not having the keys didn't seem to be a problem since Mitzu immediately started hot wiring the car. After a moment, the engine cut on and Mitzu didn't waste any time as he put on his seat belt and shifted into drive.

Thankfully since it's still noon, not many cars were on the street. It was a straight shot with really no stops until we reached the end of the neighborhood. Monika was holding the small device up so Mitzu can know where he's going.

I sat in the back just taking in the views we were passing. I noticed how as we got closer to the city, the houses were gradually getting bigger and bigger with more small businesses and multi story apartment buildings.

At one point, we reached a bridge that goes over a small river. On the other side of the river, was a more industrialized part of town. Several factories, warehouses and power plants made up the area. I could practically feel the disdain coming from Monika as we drove through the area. As an eco-friendly type of girl, it must be pretty aggravating to see all this…

After some time, we finally made it to a more abandoned part of the area. Not too far, there were some concrete walls in the road, blocking us from driving any further.

Mitzu parks off to the side of the road before putting the car in park and turning it off. Mitzu then gives the last pocket knife to Monika, who takes it. We exit the vehicle and pile around Monika to look at the device.

[Monika] "It says she should be in there…"

Monika says as she points towards the abandoned industrial park. Yep, this is the perfect place for someone who's kidnapped, would be kept. Mitzu visibility shudders while looking at where we have to go.

[Zero] "Heh, never were the type to like creepy places, eh."

[Mitzu] " Yeah… No shit…"

Mitzu murmurs that last part, most likely getting creeped out by the second. But, he doesn't let the creep factor deter him, for he stands straight and starts for the entrance. Monika and I follow.

As we approach the front gate, Monika grabs my hand and tightly squeezes…

[Zero] "Monika?"

[Monika] "Sorry… I-I am just a bit scared."

[Zero] "Hey, don't worry. I am too. But I have you here with me. So I'm faring better than if I was alone."

Monika blushes while getting closer and hugging my arm. As we make it to the gate, shivers run down my spine and Monika tightens her grasp on my arm as we stare at the dark, graffiti covered buildings.

We walk to Mitzu, who's looking around.

[Mitzu] "Zero. I don't understand how in the Sam hell urban explorers can deal with this!"

[Zero] "Heh, it's called man up and grow a pair."

This causes Mitzu to glare at me and Monika to giggle…

[Zero] "I'm just kidding. But really though, I'm not sure. You'd have to pay me an absurd amount of money for me to even stay 10 minutes alone in this place…"

[Monika] "Yeah… Especially if it were night time…"

I once again shudder, thinking of this place during night time. There's no way in HELL I'd come here at night! Nah ah. No way! After filling my mind with terrifying pictures, Monika, who's still hugging my arm tightly, starts to pull me in the direction of an alleyway in between 2 tall buildings; presumably office buildings.

The 3 of us walk into the alleyway. It's dark and quiet, only our footsteps and the sounds of Mitzu's nervous breathing being heard. To make it worse, we heard a loud bang coming from a building not too far from us.

The loud bang caused us all to jump. Monika was practically suffocating my arm at this point but I myself was too scared to acknowledge it.

[Mitzu] "W-what the hell was that?!"

[Zero] "Don't worry… It was probably j-just something falling. I mean, you see how old and run down this place is, there's no way it's not falling apart."

[Monika] "Yes, b-but that was pretty loud though…"

[Zero] "Honestly, I'm surprised that most of these buildings are still standing. I'm sure there's tons of structural damage in some of these buildings."

[Mitzu] "I'm fact, why the hell has no one decided to demolish this place? It's the perfect place for sketchy activities and is most likely a health risk."

Mitzu said this while pointing through a window at some black mold growing on the wall. He makes a good point though…

As we reached an intersection in the alleyway, the warehouse we heard the noise from earlier stood in front of us. To our left, the path was blocked by various large racks of wooden planks. It looks too tall to climb over and too heavy to push over without having super strength.

With only one choice left besides going back, we take a right. The right path ends a bit closer than the left path. From what we can tell, we seem to be moving away from the front of the building towards the back.

Once we make it to the end of the alleyway, we're presented with another weathered street. Monika brings out the device, to which we notice since we're close enough, the map has zoomed in on the part of the industrial park we're in. The red dot seemed to have moved a decent bit. Monika tugs my arm towards a door. The door looks to be a backdoor into the warehouse.

With Mitzu going first, we enter the warehouse to see several dirty storage containers. Above the warehouse floor is a room supported by beams and a catwalk that runs to the other end of the warehouse. Part of the catwalk in one area is broken… Maybe that's the noise we heard…

[Monika] "The dot should be… right out front if I'm not mistaking."

As we walk through the warehouse, Monika suddenly gasps…

[Zero] "What's wrong?"

[Monika] "She's running away!"

With that, Monika let's go of my arm and sprints towards the large opening at the front of the warehouse. Mitzu and I follow behind her until she stops right out front…

[Mitzu] "What now?!"

[Monika] "Why would she go from not moving to running away all of a sudden?"

We all trade glances, apparently all coming to the same conclusion. She's not just running away for no reason… There's someone or something after her…

Without another word, Mitzu takes off running in the direction of the red dot. Me and Monika run to catch up to him. At this point, we're running at max speed down several weathered and broken streets. As I glance at the device still in Monika's hand. Though shaky from running, I can see the red dot has stopped moving. From what I can see, she's at the front gate. Or where we entered from…

We picked up our speed to hopefully catch up to Sayori before she's able to leave the industrial park. At this point, we could be classified as 3 Usain bolts due to how fast we're running.

Mitzu being ahead of us stopped once he came into view of the front gate. Monika and I halted to a stop, breathing heavily to catch our breath. I leaned over, putting my hands on my knees. I then looked up to see Mitzu staring wide eyed. When I followed where his eyes were staring at, I nearly collapsed…

[Mitzu] "SAYORI!"

Sayori was being strangled by a boy with black hair, red tinted bangs and red eyes… It's him! Before I could even speak, Mitzu charged at the boy. Monika and I followed behind Mitzu, ready to deck this asshole.

When Mitzu got close enough, he kicked the boy in the face, causing him to let go of Sayori's throat and fly back on his side. Monika and I got to Sayori, who had her eyes closed and has a large bruise on her neck.

[Monika] "Z-Zero! Is s-she-"

[Zero] "No… Just unconscious."

I say as I put my ear to her mouth, I hear subtle breathing. With rage now taking over, I turn to the boy who's standing up and glaring at Mitzu. Mitzu stares back with an aggressive expression. He speaks up as the boy readies a fighting stance.

[Mitzu] "Who are you?!"

He says nothing…

[Mitzu] "I'm not gonna ask again! Who are y-"

Mitzu is cut off as the boy swings. Mitzu dodges the hit and throws a punch of his own. The boy raises his left arm and blocks the hit. He then punches Mitzu in the gut, which causes him to stumble back and grab his stomach.

Monika and I run up and pull Mitzu back…

[Monika] "Mitzu, get Sayori out of here! Zero and I will deal with him."

She says this while motioning to the boy, who is standing still. Mitzu nods and goes to Sayori, who he picks up bridal style and starts for the car. Before he leaves, he turns around and mouths good luck before sprinting off.

Monika and I turn around to the boy who's standing still. The boy raises his fist while Monika speaks.

[Monika] "Why are you doing this?!"

[Unknown] "As if I would tell you…"

He scoffs as he takes a step forward.

[Zero] "We don't have to do this! Just stand down and leave us alone!"

[Unknown] "That is something I can but will not do."

He takes another step forward until he's just out of arm's reach of us.

[Unknown] "I was hoping you'd let it be easy and leave me to kill Sayori. But it seems I'm also going to have to kill the 3 of you as well."

With that, the boy throws a punch at me which I dodge. He then attempts to kick Monika which is dodged as well. I swing wildly, getting one hit on him which causes him to jerk his head back. Monika goes in for a kick on his head, but he's able to grab her leg and lift it up, making Monika lose her balance and fall over.

The boy jumps up and attempts to slam his fist into Monika's face until she rolls over, causing the boy to hit his fist on the ground. He pulls it back, now bloodied up, only he doesn't seem to care. Monika quickly stands back up and barely able to dodge another hit. I come from the back and throw a fist at the back of his head. He must've seen it coming since he ducked and through an elbow at my stomach.

[Zero] "Gah!"

The boy then throws a punch which I'm not able to dodge. It hits my cheek and causes me to stumble back. Before he throws another punch, Monika hits him with a haymaker in the back of the head. With him now a bit disoriented, I grab his head and bring it down on my knee. He falls onto his back, now bleeding from his nose.

[Zero] "It's two on one! Just stand down, we don't have to fight!"

The boy doesn't give up. He quickly gets to his feet and before I can even comprehend, he kicks me in the gut. I collapse to the ground and hold my stomach in pain.

[Monika] "Zero!"

Monika lands a hit on his side, then another on his face as he turns around. He grabs Monika's wrist as she's about to land a third hit. She attempts to hit him with her left hand but he grabs that wrist as well. With both of her hands now restrained, he head buts Monika. She falls down, clutching her head and groaning. Seeing Monika in pain like this causes me to lose it.

I jump up, disregarding any pain I still may feel. I throw a flurry of punches at the back of his head. They all make contact and as he turns around, I throw a haymaker at his face. He stumbles back a bit as I uppercut him in the chin. He once again fell onto his back, but is quick to be on his feet again.

I fake a punch, causing him to put his arm up to dodge it. I then use my other hand to strike him in the gut. This only does a little, as he tackles my abdomen. This catches me off guard and I fall back. He pins me down and starts unloading a flurry of punches onto my face. I put my hands up to try and block but he's still able to get hits on my face. Wait… I have a knife!

Now remembering the weapon I have, I take a few more hits before I reach into my pocket and pull out the pocket knife. I dig the knife into his side, causing him to jump off of me and groan in pain…

[Unknown] "Aghhhh!"

[Zero] "Just fucking stand down!"

I jump up and punch him square in the nose, knocking him down once again. I turn the tables and pin him down while pulling the knife out of his side. I decide to put the knife away and go in for my own flurry of punches. Punch after punch, I continue my onslaught on his face. The knife must've weakened him since he's struggling to block my hits.

[Zero] "Just… Stand... down… Already!"

With one final punch, his hands drop and eyes close. Finally… I stand up, but instantly fall back on my butt due to exhaustion. As I collect my breath, I realize the state I'm in. While I beat the boys ass, I'm not doing much better in the wound department. I have multiple cuts and I can feel my face bruising up. Just then I remember that Monika hasn't moved since she was head butted.

[Zero] "Monika!"

Monika's laying on the ground, still clutching her head. I get up and sluggishly move over to her. I kneel down on my knees and hold her in my arms. She lets out a small groan…

[Monika] "Errrrmmm."

[Zero] "Moni… Are you okay?"

[Monika] "Y-yeah… Just… M-my head."

She removes her hand to reveal a small gash on her forehead. I instantly regret not digging the knife into the boy while I had him pinned down. Monika must've seen my anger as she sits up and embraces me.

[Monika] "Don't worry my love. It's just a small cut. But…"

She looks up and hovers her hand over my cheek…

[Monika] "But you… You look really hurt."

[Zero] "I'm okay, just a few cuts and bruises… nothing too terrible."

[Monika] "Well… If you say s-"

Monika's cut off as I feel my head take a strong punch. I'm knocked to the side on the ground as I clutch the back of my head.

[Monika] "Zero!"

I look up to see the boy. He takes a step before trying to kick me in the head. I just barely dodge it by rolling over. Before he's able to kick again, Monika drop kicks him in the side. He's almost knocked over and I take this time to get back up. Monika and I exchange a quick glance before charging him.

Monika strikes first, with a punch which he's able to dodge. Not looking forward to more fighting, I pull out the knife and attempt to swipe him. The knife grazes his cheek, cutting it ever so slightly. Monika goes in for another kick but he ducks and grabs her by the waist with both hands and tries to body slam her. I stop him by tackling him, dropping all 3 of us to the ground.

I bring the knife above his head and slam down. Only he tries to roll over, causing me to miss and slam it into the concrete. Monika brings out her knife and attempts to strike his forehead. Before it can make contact however, he grabs her wrist and rolls over, slamming her hand into the ground while knocking me off of him in the process. Monika lets out a cry due to the force of her hand hitting the ground.

[Monika] "Gah!"

The boy stands up and grabs Monika by the throat and slams her head into the ground.

[Zero] "Monika!"

Monika stays unmoving with her eyes closed. I jump at the boy but he must've predicted my move for he side steps and hits my stomach. I stumble forward and fall to the ground. The boy rolls me over before once again Pinning me.

[Unknown] " You could've just stayed away."

Punch

[Unknown] "You could've just let the game play out."

Punch

[Unknown] "You could've spared you're worthless life a few days by not trying!"

Punch

The punches I'm receiving right now feel stronger than any punches he's dealt before. My face is in pain and I feel like I'm losing consciousness.

[Unknown] "And now!"

Punch

After the punch, he reaches over and grabs one of the pocket knives from off the ground. Shit…

[Unknown] "And now… YOU'RE GOING TO SUFF-"

Bang

. . .

I hear what sounds like metal hitting something else instead of feeling a knife in me. Through my blurry vision, I see the boy staring wide eyed at me. What is he doing?

The boy then falls to the side, dropping the knife in the process. He's… out cold…

I look back up from the boy and see… Mitzu.

Mitzu has a metal pipe in his right hand and is glaring at the boy. Mitzu then drops the pipe and kneels down next to me.

[Mitzu] "Zero… You okay?"

[Zero] "Yeah… He hits like a little girl."

I know internally that that's a lie. Mitzu can also see through that as he lifts an eyebrow.

[Mitzu] "Uh Huh… Because a little girl can do this…"

He says this while pointing at my face, which doesn't look so nice right now to say the least.

[Zero] "Hehe, I just tripped a few times, don't mind it."

[Mitzu] "Uh Huh, sure. Now c'mon."

Mitzu holds his hand out, which I take and he pulls me up. As soon as I'm up, I run over to Monika once I remember what happened to her. She's still unmoving on the ground.

[Zero] "Monika!"

[Mitzu] "What happened to her?!"

[Zero] "The boy slammed her head onto the concrete."

I once again hold her in my arms. She's got a small amount of blood leaking out of the side of her head. Fuck!

[Mitzu] "Shit… Let's get her to the car. C'mon."

I stand up while holding Monika bridal style. Mitzu and I walk through the gate of the industrial park. I take one last look back to the boy, who's still knocked out. I feel this isn't the last time we'll meet…

I turn back around as Mitzu starts to speak.

[Mitzu] "So… How are you holding up?"

[Zero] "sigh… Good, I guess."

That's a lie. I feel like shit…

[Mitzu] "Well that's good… Though, I'm driving us straight to the hospital once we get to the car."

Yeah, although… What about the car?

[Zero] "What are we gonna do about the car?"

[Mitzu] "I… Um… don't know…"

[Zero] "Well, maybe you can drop it off after you take us to the hospital. Assuming you're not hurt?"

[Mitzu] "Yeah. I'm good."

The rest of the small walk was silent. The whole time, I was in pain. I kept myself going by constantly reminding myself that Sayori's safe and Monika is in my arms, in need of medical care.

I also thought about what the boy was saying during the fight. Why does he want the game to run its course? That'll just end up in the death of everyone! Probably including him! I can't seem to think of any reason he would want that to happen. It just… makes no sense…

As we approached the car, my heart instantly dropped as I saw the red and blue lights of a police car…

[Mitzu] "What the fuck?!"

[Zero] "Who called them?!"

With no other words, Mitzu and I ran towards the car. Sayori was standing beside it, talking to the cop. When the cop noticed us, he held a hand up to Sayori to let her know to hold on. The cop then rushed over to us.

[Officer] "Hey, you two, what's going on here?"

[Zero] "U-umm… We uhh…"

[Mitzu] "We weren't doing anything bad, we swear!"

[Officer] "Hey, hey! Calm down. Your friend over here told me that she was kidnapped and you 3 came to help her… You are the three she was talking about, right?"

Sayori walked over while he was speaking and said…

[Sayori] "Yeah. A red eyed boy was trying to kill me… But they came and saved me! And…"

She cut herself off as she saw my face…

[Sayori] "Oh my gosh! Zero! What happened?!"

[Officer] "Yeah son, You look like you need to go to the hospital. Same with the girl."

He said while pointing at Monika, who's still not awake.

[Zero] "Y-yeah… She needs it way more than me though."

[Officer] "Okay, I want you two to get in my cruiser…"

He said motioning for me and Monika to get in his car…

[Officer] "Are you two okay?"

He said while turning to Mitzu and Sayori…

[Sayori] "I'm fine, i just have a bit of pain right here."

She says while pointing to her neck.

[Mitzu] "Yeah, I'm good as well."

[Officer] "Okay… I want you two drive home. Get some rest and keep the doors locked. Another officer may be at your home within the coming days to question you. I'm gonna take your friends to the hospital. I'll also drive em home so don't worry about having to leave the house again."

Wow. This is the nicest cop I've ever met. I just really hope he doesn't ask about the car. We're fucked if he does…

[Officer] "Now, stay safe you two. Like I said, don't leave your homes and be ready for questioning soon."

He then started waking to his car and motioned for me to follow. When we got to the police cruiser, I opened the back door and set Monika in. I closed the door and walked to the other side and got in next to her. The officer got in the driver's seat, buckled up, and started the engine.

I took Monika in my arms and held her head on my chest. The officer started to drive off before he spoke up…

[Officer] "Hey kid. While you'll possibly be informed about this another day, I just want to say that your friends are not the only person to be kidnapped."

Wait what?!

[Officer] "We've gotten several reports of kidnapping around the city. All cases have ended in unsuccessfully locating the victims. Your friend is actually the first to be recovered."

Assuming the bastard that kidnapped Sayori is to blame, that means he must have the whole police force on his ass.

[Zero] "Oh yeah! What are you gonna do about the kidnapper? We were able to knock him out in the industrial park."

[Officer] "We've got Officers on their way right now. Once we apprehend him, we'll need you four to come in for evidence. And I got a question… How did you find your friend?"

Fuckkkkkkkk….

[Zero] "U-ummm… She had her phone on her and we were able to locate it through… Umm, Snapchat."

[Officer] "Ahh, one of those social media's you kids nowadays use. I guess it's gotta good use. Now, how's your girlfriend doing?"

My face goes red to hearing him call her my girlfriend. Why am I blushing? It's true! I guess I just can't comprehend it completely yet.

[Zero] "Uhh, s-she's doing good. I hope…"

[Officer] "Alright, well the hospital isn't that far away. Once we get you two to the ER, Ima be waiting in my car.

[Zero] "Okay… And, are we in any trouble?"

[Officer] "Well, it's possible that you could get an offense for trespassing. With me though, you're not in trouble at all. You saved your friend and that's that. And I have no intention in getting you guys in trouble, if anything, I'll be helping to get you guys out Scott free."

[Zero] "T-thanks… Thank you so much…"

[Officer] "Hey, don't mention it. Just let me know if you have any more information on the kidnapper, alright."

[Zero] "Okay."

With that, the rest of the ride was quiet, only the music the officer was playing was making noise. I could feel my eyelids getting heavy. I leaned back with Monika still in my arms and let sleep overtake me…

(Mitzu's POV)

[Mitzu] "So… You were the one who called the cops?"

[Sayori] "Mhm!"

[Mitzu] "Sayori… You do realize he could've found out that we stole a car, right?"

[Sayori] "O-oh, ehehe… Sorry."

She said while doing the cute thing where she puts her index fingers together.

[Mitzu] "It's okay. I'm just glad you're okay…"

[Sayori] "And I'm g-glad you came for me. My rain clouds were being mean and… I almost gave up…"

[Mitzu] "W-what?!

[Sayori] "Y-yeah… I almost did it…"

My heart hurt at knowing she was so close to ending it… I began to shake a little since I couldn't imagine a future without Sayori at this point. Sayori must've noticed my subtle shaking since she spoke up…

[Sayori] "But I thought of you…"

My face got a bit rosey and the shaking began to subside, but I still listened while focusing on the road.

[Sayori] "The rain clouds tried to make me believe that you don't love me and you're just pitying me."

[Mitzu] "Sayori… You know that's not true. I-I really love you."

[Sayori] "I know… When I was about to jump off the roof I was on, the good thoughts kept fighting the bad thoughts. I knew the good thoughts were right, but the rain clouds were always trying to steer me in their direction. In the end… I went with the good thoughts. I knew everything the rain clouds were saying was just a way to get me to… Ya know…"

I was in awe at how much Sayori has come the past few days and at how she fought against her depression and kept going. God, if I wasn't driving, I would just kiss her!

[Mitzu] "Well… I'm proud of you. You really are a strong girl. And I feel honored to be your boyfriend."

Sayori's face went red as she giggled…

[Sayori] "Ehehe, Your so silly Mitzu."

[Mitzu] "Hehe… But really though, you don't know how proud I am of you. I'm so glad to see you doing better."

I side glance to see Sayori smiling bashfully. All of a sudden, I feel her lean on my shoulder. I look to side again and smile as well. We stay silent as I drive, while the sunsets in the horizon. It feels just like our park trip…

In some time, we make it back to our neighborhood. I pull off on the side of the road next to the house from which we stole the car from. Sayori and I got out of the car, and quickly left the area.

Once we make it back to our street, Sayori speaks…

[Sayori] "Hey Mitzu… C-can you stay at my house again?"

[Mitzu] "Of course I can Sayori."

[Sayori] "Yay!"

She says this while hopping up and down. God, she's so adorable!

[Mitzu] "Hehe, you know, I'd do anything for you."

[Sayori] "Ehehe… Then will you… Make me cookies?!"

I slowly turn my head and look at her. I sigh while shaking my head slowly…

[Mitzu] "What am I gonna do with you…"

[Sayori] "Heehee… So will you?"

[Mitzu] "sigh… You're lucky that it sounds like it could be fun making them with you."

[Sayori] "Then c'mon!"

She blurts this out before grabbing my hand and pulling me down the street into her yard. I nearly tripped multiple times due to her antics. But… I'm glad I fell in love with this girl. I'm gonna keep her safe, no matter what…

(Monika's POV)

1 hour later

. . .

Beep

. . .

Beep

. . .

Beep

I'm awoken by the sound of a beeping heart monitor. Am I… in a hospital? The last thing I remember is… Zero!

I quickly open my eyes and look around. Where's Zero?! Where is- I notice Zero, who fell asleep while leaning on the bed I'm on. I smile and sigh in relief. I run my fingers through his brown hair. While doing so, I notice his face, which is covered in bandages.

After a moment, Zero wakes up. Presumably from me playing with his hair…

[Zero] "Yawn…"

[Monika] "Hey my love…"

He instantly shoots up, most likely surprised to see me awake. How long was I out? Before I know it, I'm pulled into a tight hug, which I reciprocate.

[Zero] "Moni… I'm so glad you're okay…"

[Monika] "I'll be okay as long as I'm with you my love."

I could feel wet droplets falling on my neck. Zero's crying…

[Monika] "My love?"

[Zero] "I-I'm sorry… I just hated to see you hurt. I… I just…"

[Monika] "Shhhh…."

I held Zero tighter and moved my right hand to the back of his head and started stroking his hair again. He dug his face into the crook of my neck while quietly sobbing. I continued to comfort him for some time until his tears stopped falling and he lifted his head up.

[Zero] "Moni… I-I love you…"

I give him the best smile I could muster and wrap my arms around his neck. I move my face so we're only a centimeter apart before speaking…

[Monika] "I love you too."

We both lean in for a kiss. Zero puts his hands on my back as I tighten my arms around his neck. Even though I think it hasn't been that long, I feel like I haven't seen Zero in forever. This thought causes me to deepen the kiss, which Zero replies with doing the same. We stay like this for a while, not wanting to be any farther from each other.

Sadly, both of us are in need of air. We pull away from each other, panting but still staring in each other's eyes. I just can't get enough of his golden eyes…

[Zero] "Ya know… Having all the money in the world couldn't even half equal being with you…"

I feel my face heating up rapidly. I turn my head away from Zero and smile bashfully. As I do so, I realize I have a bandage wrapped around my head. Have I really not realized that until now?! I put my hand on it which causes Zero to speak.

[Zero] "The boy slammed your head pretty hard… You lost a decent amount of blood but the doctors said it's nothing too serious."

[Monika] "O-oh yeah… I remember now… And how long have we been here? It's night time already."

I said while pointing towards the window...

[Zero] "We arrived here about an hour and a half ago. I was more or less unscathed, so all they had to do was put on a couple of bandages and I was free to go. But, there was no way I was gonna leave you so I came here and waited for you."

[Monika] "Are you sure you're okay? Even through the bandages, I can see that look terrible…"

[Zero] "Heh, I mean, I know I'm unattractive, but I didn't know I was that ugly…"

I pouted before lightly hitting him on the arm…

[Monika] "You know what I meant you ass."

[Zero] "Hehe, yeah… I'll make it. There's no need to worry."

I gently grab his hands and rub the top of them with my thumbs…

[Monika] "Zero… You're not fooling anyone… Do you really not feel that well?"

He dropped his head a little while sighing...

[Zero] "Sigh… While you were out, I took one helluva beating… Then again, I also beat his ass at one point but… Yeah, he bested me a few times. But like I said, don't worry too much, I'll get better sooner rather than later."

[Monika] "Good, because I too can't stand to see you in pain."

After saying this, the door to the room opened. A nurse with black hair in a short ponytail walked in…

[Nurse] "Excuse me Miss, You will be allowed to leave anytime. We'll be giving you some pain killers for any headaches. If you are not feeling any better within 4 days, please do not hesitate to come back."

[Monika] "Okay, and thank you."

[Nurse] "It's no problem. Now, let me fetch the painkillers and you may eave if you wish."

With that, the nurse walked out the room. Zero stood from the chair he was sitting in and held his hand out to me. I took it as he helped me out of the bed.

[Monika] "Woah!"

[Zero] "I got you!"

As soon as I stood up, I felt light headed with my legs giving out. Zero caught me before I could hit the ground. He pulled me up and put my arm around his shoulder. It took me a moment, but I was able to stand without falling eventually.

[Monika] "Okay… I think I got it now."

[Zero] "Okay, I'm letting go…"

Zero let go but kept his hands hovering over my waist in case I were to fall again. I took a few steps just to make sure I could walk, which thankfully I can.

[Monika] "Alright, I'm good to go."

The door opened once again and the nurse walked in with a small bag with the pain killers in it. After she handed over the medicine, Zero and I exited the room and started for the entrance of the hospital.

When we made it to the entrance, we were met by a cop, who was leaning on his car.

[Officer] "Ah, You kids ready to go?"

[Zero] "Yes sir."

[Officer] "Alright, Hop in."

Zero and I got in the back while the officer got in the driver's seat. Within a few seconds, the cop began driving off towards home. Once we were on the road, the cop spoke…

[Officer] "So Monika, what's the diagnosis? Concussion? Brain damage? Hehe, I'm just kidding… But… You okay?"

[Monika] "Mhm, it's more or less just a small gash. Nothing too serious, although the nurse said I might experience some headaches over the next couple of days."

[Officer] "Dang… Well, I hope you feel better soon. And while it's on my mind, don't be surprised if any officers show up at your door. They'll most likely question you on what happened today since the kidnapper is an ongoing case… Or was, since I got a call stating that a boy with black hair was apprehended and taken to the station."

[Zero] "Thank god…"

Zero said this under his breath while slumping back and closing his eyes.

[Zero] "And they better keep him locked up. If I see him again, I'll make em wish he was never born."

[Officer] "Hehe, and I'd have to take you in for assault or manslaughter… But you seem like a really good kid. You really want to protect your friends. Not many people will actually help others like that, even though they might say they'd do anything for their friends. Your friends are lucky to have you son."

[Zero] "Thank you sir but… I'm not good like the praise you give me… I've done something I can never forgive myself for- B-but once again, thank you for the p-praise."

He's talking about the thing he feels guilty for... I really hope he tells me about it soon… Zero turns his head away and shifts uncomfortably. I don't hesitate to scoot over and hug his arm. This gives the result I was hoping for, as he gives me the smile I fell in love with and leans into me, laying his cheek on the top of my head.

[Officer] "Oh… Well, I'm not gonna ask anymore questions on that but, I'm sure whatever happened, it wasn't your fault. Certain things may make us believe that it's our fault but… That's just the mind being the mind."

[Monika] "He's right Zero… And you've said it yourself. You can't let the guilt get to you."

[Zero] "Y-yeah, I know… But when I'm ready to tell you, you'll know why it's hard for me."

[Monika] "Well, whenever you're ready, I'll be there to listen and make you feel better in any way I can."

[Zero] "Thank you Moni… For being so understanding and caring. You truly are an angel."

My face heats up so I bury my face into his chest in an attempt to hide it.

[Officer] "Hehe, You kids remind me of my wife and I when we were in highschool… Some truly good days, those were."

After that, we all went quiet, listening to the music playing from the radio. Zero and I stayed cuddled up, looking out the window at the various shops lighting up the street. The world being so lively helps me keep at peace. I still can't comprehend that this world is as real as it is… It's so real…

I could feel myself dozing off due to the scenery, the soft music and the warmth from my love. I was only knocked out of my almost asleep state by the officer coming to a stop and speaking…

[Officer] "Aaaaand we're here."

I looked out the other window to see Zero's house…

[Zero] "Yawn… Man, it feels like it's been forever since I've been here."

[Officer] "I know what you mean. After an eventful day, all you want to do is go home. And once you're home, it feels almost strange. Like visiting a relatives house after not seeing them for sometime."

[Zero] "Heh, couldn't have said it better myself. And I think it's also because I hear my bed calling me…"

Zero cups his ear while saying this. I giggle before Zero and I separate and open the car door. Once outside, the officer rolls down his window…

[Officer] "Alright you two, remember everything I've said today, stay safe and have a good night. If anything's wrong, call the station, alright."

[Monika] "Yes sir, and have a good night as well."

With that, the officer rolled up his window and drove off. Zero and I walked inside the house and cut the lights on. Aaaahhh… It does feel rather nice to be back.

[Zero] "Sooo… It's kinda late…"

Zero says as he takes out his phone…

[Zero] "How do you feel about Pizza and a movie?"

Zero and I watching a movie together! Alone! Oh man that sounds super romantic… I guess my face was enough to give him an answer, as he pulls up a local pizza place on his phone and begins to call them.

Once we had the pizza ordered, Zero went upstairs to change. I use my coding to change into white T-shirt that leaves a small bit of my stomach exposed and some black tights.

Once Zero makes it back downstairs, he instantly notices my attire and blushes.

[Monika] "Teehee, you like what you see?"

I say this with a seductive smile, causing him redden even more.

[Zero] "Uhh, Y-yeah… You honestly l-look super hot…"

I begin to blush as my plan to have him flustered starts to backfire. He was supposed to be a cute, stuttering mess! I didn't think he'd say that!

[Monika] "O-oh… W-well thank y-you… You look good as well…"

Zero's currently wearing a white, long sleeve shirt and some gray jeans. With both of us being embarrassed now, we silently make our way into the living room. For the next 10 minutes, we scroll through multiple streaming services until we find a movie to watch. At one point, the delivery guy shows up, so Zero grabs the food.

A few moments later, he walks back in the living room with paper plates and the 2 pizza boxes. I ordered a veggie pizza while Zero ordered a pepperoni pizza. With the food now present, we dimmed the lights just enough so we can still see the pizza but enjoy the movie without a bright light being there.

The movie we chose is a romantic drama where a girl with hearing disabilities is bullied by a boy. The boy is transferred to another school and isolates himself from everyone else. He contemplates suicide but before he does, he wants to apologize to the girl he bullied. After apologizing, he decides against taking his own life.

Zero and I got full on our pizza rather quickly and cuddled up together. We stayed like this, just enjoying the movie and each other. I can't express enough how blessed I feel for Zero to be here. I must've been staring since Zero all of a sudden spoke up.

[Zero] "Moni?"

[Monika] "Oh! Sorry. I was just thinking."

[Zero] "About what?"

[Monika] "I-I was just thinking… That it's a blessing for you to really be here… Sometimes, I still can't fathom that I'm with the man of my dreams."

[Zero] " Yeah… I know that feeling. And I'm so glad that this is really happening… Albeit, maybe not so happy about getting my ass beat today but… If this is the price I have to pay to be here with you all, then it's worth it."

Hearing him talk like that always makes my heart melt. Because of that, I got as close as humanly possible while still cuddling. At this point, there's no room left between us. And I wish it would never end.

I'm at least glad it lasted for as long as it did, since the movies now over, we unhook from each other and got off the couch to go to bed. When we make it upstairs, we get into our usual sleeping clothes. Zero takes his shirt off and I change into white tank top and with my underwear.

I get into bed with Zero following once he shuts off the lights. Once in bed, I roll over on top of him and lay my head in his chest. The sound of his heart beating is so soothing…

[Zero] "Hey Moni."

[Monika] "Mhm."

[Zero] "I love you…"

[Monika] "I love you too. Goodnight."

After saying this, I lift my head up and give him a quick kiss on the lips before resting my head back on his chest.

[Zero] "Goodnight to you too Moni…"

With that, sleep starts to overtake us. It's hard not to feel so relaxed when all I hear is Zero's heartbeats and the nice sound of crickets chirping.

Sleep starts to get the best of me while I have a few last thoughts. Even though today was… An eventful one to say the least, I'm glad we came out on top. With Zero and I together, I feel as any threat thrown our way will be dealt with. But deep down… I still have a feeling that this won't be the last of the boy. But I have faith in us…

(Zero's POV)

Fuck! Did Monika mess with the thermostat?! It's freezing- Oh wait… I open my eyes to see the void. This again… Like normal, a white light flashes briefly before the ghost manifests before me.

[?] "Hello once again Zero."

[Zero] "Yo."

[?] "I'm pleased with the outcome of today's… mishaps. I am truly grateful for choosing you two for this world. I have all the faith I can possess put in you two."

[Zero] "Ah, well thank you."

[?] "If you're wondering why I've brought you here, I want to inform you on multiple things. First off, from now until the festival, you will not have to worry about the boy. The boy, who To my knowledge, goes by Unknown, will be unconscious for days to come, due to the strike his head took."

I sigh in relief that we at least have a few days without that asshole intruding. And Unknown?! Sounds like a group of computer hackers…

[?] "Second… As long as Sayori is alive, come the day of the festival, her depression cannot be altered anymore by an external source. The only thing that can affect it will be natural occurrences. And you must be wondering what I mean by altering her depression anymore. What I mean is, the boy has been altering it. He would've set it to a lethal level if I had not stepped in and stopped it from going all the way."

Is that why she was randomly so sad the other day?! And festival day… I know Mitzu can keep her safe.

[?] "And finally… certain characters may begin to appear. I have noted that characters with red eyes are corrupted. I have taken in my duty to watch out for those. There will also be characters to aid you on your journey. They will be friendly towards you but are not self aware, so please try your best to treat them as a normal, non-self aware character."

Wow, that's a lot of information… It takes a moment for me to comprehend all of what the ghost told me. New characters though? Is… the officer one of those characters? I mean he did help us… It's possible I guess.

Just as I was about to speak, the light signaling the ghost's departure blinds me. Just like last time, it fades from white to darkness

Only this time… It's dreamland. A well deserved dream about me being in the NBA…

A/N

And there it is! Part 2 to the mega chapter. This chapter is a bit longer than the others and my first attempt at writing a fight scene. If you think the fight may be underwhelming, then that's kind of what I was going for. I plan for there to be many more fights in the future, so think of this as the first boss battle.

And I apologize for the late chapter. With a combination of school, being busy, and depression, I've found little time to write and was originally planning on having this out a few days ago.

With that, have a good day/night and stay safe!