Chapter 18: Halloween
Chiaki Nanami
The days passed slowly. Chiaki was bored for sure, but that seemed insignificant now. The first day after Enoshima's death, she woke up to an envelope under her door. Her room was dark, but not enough that she couldn't read it.
The outside was colorful, with the phrase 'Get Well Soon!' on the front. Inside was a collection of signatures and a message. Sorry for ignoring you. I hope you're okay. She clutched it to her chest, smiling. The security had told her they were all okay, but it felt good to finally have proof.
Her doctor had come in for a check up each day, making sure she was following his orders. He apologized when she asked to see everyone, stating that it would only worsen her concussion. After he left, she sighed and collapsed back into her bed.
It wasn't until three days had passed that he finally said her concussion cleared up. The first thing she did after he'd left was boot up several consoles. It was more games than she could handle at once, but it felt right nonetheless. It wasn't long until she heard game over jingles from a few, but that just served to narrow her focus on the others.
A knock at her door snapped her from her game-induced trance. She got up and opened it to reveal the Ultimate Chef, grinning. "Ah, Nanami-san! It's been a while, hasn't it!"
"Oh, yeah, I guess it has. I'm glad to see you!" She smiled. "I saw your signature on your card, but it'd still been a while. I was starting to forget your face."
"Sheesh, was I that unremarkable? Perhaps there's another way I could make an impression?" His nose began to bleed.
"Oh, I know, you could make us something to eat." She figured it probably wasn't going to top the few times Kamukura-kun had cooked for her, but still felt the gesture was nice. "Wait… You were thinking something weird, weren't you?"
"Guilty as charged. But I assure you, my tastes are much more refined than the Teruteru you knew." He winked. "Still, It'd be an honor to serve my former Class Rep."
"Former? So I guess that means you're not staying?" She pouted.
"Well, I was planning on telling you all when we eat lunch. That's why I'm the one here to get you." The Chef grabbed her hand. "Come along now, there's much to discuss."
"Okay… I guess." She followed along, a smile on her face. Her class was waiting in the dining hall with eager expressions. "Hey everyone."
"Yahoo! Chiaki-chan's finally here!" The Musician shouted.
The click of a camera sounded. "Oh, hey Koizumi-san- Huh?"
"Don't make a big deal outta this, okay?" The Yakuza blushed. "It just makes her happy, is all." He rolled his eyes. The Photographer behind him nodded.
"Hey, uh, listen… Sorry about ignoring you and everything…" Mitarai-kun sighed, scratching the back of his head. She could see some of his teeth were missing. "I mean what I said on that card."
"I'm not mad… You just wanted to help your friend… I get it…" She gave an awkward thumbs-up.
"Y-Yeah okay, just… Ugh… I'm sorry…" He bit his lip and sat back down.
Chiaki was about to say something else when she was lifted off her feet. She felt herself placed down on someone's shoulders. "C'mon! C'mon! I'm dying for Hanamura-kun's food already! I'm going through withdrawal or somethin'!"
"Okay, okay… Let's eat…" She didn't even realize how hungry she was until it was mentioned. In no small part because she had only eaten bland hospital food for the last three days. Owari-san set her down and the Cook began slinging dishes out.
She had to admit, there was a certain flavour to the cooking that even Kamukura-kun couldn't beat. Be it the fact that the dishes were designed with care, or the love of his talent itself. The food was delicious, and even the more rowdy of her classmates were silent while eating. Until the Chef tapped a fork against his glass.
"Now I must admit, I've truly missed this, but I'll be returning home on monday." He smiled. "If anyone wants to give me a parting gift, I'll be happy to indulge!"
"Quit making perverted jokes, just let us eat in peace!" The Dancer shouted.
"Huh? I wasn't making a perverted joke this time, I swear! Trust me!" He whimpered. "Seriously, I'm saving myself for someone back home anyway!"
"Don't tell me, you got a girlfriend!?" The Mechanic shouted. "Who would even fall for someone like… Like you!?" He pouted, jealously.
"W-Well not a girlfriend, per se… Just a regular customer who's taken a fancy for my meat, if you know what I mean…"
"Quit it with the innuendos already…" Koizumi-san groaned.
"I ain't ne'er said no innuendo! Ha!" Hanamura-kun shouted. He took a second to compose himself. "Trust me, they just like my cooking is all! Ahem, speaking of… I must apologize for missing your birthday, Sonia-san. Is there any way I could make it up to you?"
"Oh! Oh! I know! We could celebrate this Hallow's Eve tomorrow together!" She grinned. "Back in my country, it is exclusive to the elderly, so it is a joy to partake in such a forbidden activity!"
"S-Seriously!? Out of everything, you want to celebrate that shitty excuse for a holiday? No way, I refuse!" He crossed his arms.
"Wait, yeah… That sounds like a great idea!" Chiaki smiled. "We could have a big halloween party like last year! Do you think that'll make up for me forgetting your birthday?"
"Oh, yes! I do believe that will suffice! And we could all dress up in costumes! This all sounds radical!" The Princess smiled.
"Fuhahaha! The day of darkness approached faster than the dark eye predicted! This so-called holiday is one worth celebrating indeed!" The Breeder cackled.
"I don't really get all that but if it means more food, I'm down." Owari-san said, scarfing down another dish.
"I agree!" Nidai-kun bellowed. "Every team deserves a break after a long season of playing! So! As your Team Manager, I wholeheartedly support this decision!"
"Woohoo! Ibuki could totally go as frankenstein!" Mioda-san pointed at the stitches across her face. "It'd fit perfectly, dontcha think?"
"Yo, Hanamura-kun… Think about it, this is your chance!" Soda-kun grinned. "You know how lewd these costumes would all be!?"
"Uh… Well… Hm…" The Chef stuttered. "I'm saving myself for Kaoru back home y'see… And well… I guess it wouldn't hurt to have a little fun while I'm here…" He gave a suspicious grin. "Alright, I'm in. But I'm not making any junk food for any of you!"
A chorus of cheers rang out. Chiaki smiled and finished eating. This is what she fought for. For everyone to be so happy. She needed to get to work.
Juzo Sakakura
"Oi! Didya hear!? Little ol' Nanami-san is throwing a big Halloween party tomorrow!" Yukizome-san cheered. "Aw man, I can't believe I've missed both their Halloween's at Hope's Peak now… Unless you'll let me go, that is!"
"You're not going." He said, sympathetically. It was partially his fault she'd missed their first, and if he'd only not been a coward that day, she'd be perfectly fine now.
"Wahhh, you're so mean!" She faked a few tears. "C'mon, it'll be like a surprise visit! I won't hurt anyone, promise."
"You can't, okay? I get it, I do… If I'd dared to not come to one of your parties, you'd have killed me…" He sighed. "But we both know why you aren't going to go. That's the end of this discussion."
"Ugh, fine… You're no fun." She flicked his ear. "Go do your boring work or whatever… Not my problem. And maybe I'll stop cleaning your place… I wonder how you'd like that, huh?"
"Go ahead. My bet is you wouldn't last a day in here without flaunting your talent." He rolled his eyes, focusing on the screen ahead of him.
It didn't take long for news of Enoshima's death to be leaked, which caused an uproar. Just as her fanbase began to calm down, the news was released and started a whole new wave. What didn't help was the world finding out about Maizono's passing as well.
That morning alone, three mass brawls between both their supporters broke out across the country. As well as many assaults and a few murders. Most recently at the funeral for the Idol, one of her bandmates was shot. As far as Juzo knew, she was going to recover, but the thought still disgusted him.
Although he had checked several times over the past few days, nothing was mentioned about Ikusaba, other than the odd conspiracy theory. A few of which he'd checked out, but none had any ground. To be so ignored and forgotten in death, the thought terrified him. Not that he held much sympathy for the sister.
"Oh me, oh my! That bitch is totally getting ignored!" Yukizome-san laughed, still looking over his shoulder. "Guess that's what not being famous gets you!"
"You're not going to stop, are you?" He grit his teeth, turning to her.
"Nope! I mean, I just wanted to help my friend work. Seeing as I'm now down to one!" She laughed.
"Shut up. Stop." He clenched his fist. "Knock it off."
"Oh~ Poor Munakata-san… He was so young and full of life. I so totally regret getting him killed. Maybe." She continued. "I mean, if the choice was between him and Chiaki-chan… I dunno who I'd choose! I'd probably freeze up and let them both die." The Housekeeper pouted. "Well, good thing you were able to act fast and sacrifice him! For a girl you'd never met, no less. You sure you really had a crush on him?"
"Yes! Wait, shit… Fucking shut up…" He bit his tongue. "Why do you just want to relentlessly fuck with me… Aren't there more 'despairing' things you could be doing now anyway?"
"I dunno, but this feels real good, so I'll keep doing it." She grinned.
"Seriously? Like, there's nothing better for you to do right now?" He spun around to face her.
"Oh, I know! I could go see my precious lil' class rep! She totally already knows I'm staying here after all!"
"That's not gonna happen." He crossed his arms. "Wait, the hell do you mean she knows you're here?"
"Oops, didn't mean to say that!" She giggled. "Let's change the subject. Hmm… You watch any good shows recently?"
"No, we're not done with you." He stood up. "You sold her out to Enoshima, didn't you? Why the fuck would you-"
"Now you know what they say about assuming! I'd never sell Nanami-san out to that bitch!" Yukizome-san climbed onto a table so she was higher than him. "I sold her out to Kamukura instead!"
"The hell? Wait, what the fuck are you saying?" He grabbed her off of his table. "Kamukura is, uh… They're on good terms, I know that. So how could you sell her out to him?"
She replied by sticking out her tongue. "Now don't go asking me, that's something you oughta ask her about!"
"Just fucking tell me!" He shouted.
"Okay, well, the only good show I've watched is your old wrestling tapes. Since you don't have cable, and all."
"You… What? Oh… Shut the hell up…" He pinched the bridge of his nose.
"Oh, by far my favourite was the one for your exam! That guy was three weight classes above you. Like, he was Heavyweight and you're, like, Middleweight at best." She giggled.
"Super Middleweight, thanks. Why are you even… Bringing this up?" He felt his fist shaking.
"The best part of that was when I ran up and hugged you. That was fun!" She smiled. "And then Munakata-kun came up and shook your hand. You seemed so happy, in retrospect, that makes total sense."
"Why… Why? God dammit why!?" He swung his fist, bringing it back into his own jaw. "Agh, fuck…"
"Woah, you're still upset about him? It's been a month already, you should get over yourself." She continued grinning.
Juzo glared into her eyes. They weren't her usual despairing swirls. Instead, they were shaky, terrified and sad. "You…" He bit his lip, contemplating what to say. "You remember when… When he tried to recruit us… Into the student council…?"
"Hm, yep I think!" She nodded.
"Heh… Yeah… That couldn't have gone worse. When you and I got there, we basically tore it apart… It took 'em a few years to get it up and running again, right?"
She laughed. Not a despair fueled one, but a normal, Chisa Yukizome one. "They never even bothered to fix the computer lab, did they?"
"Munakata-kun… He said he was pissed, but… Something tells me he enjoyed finally having an actual problem to solve. I mean, he's always wanted to change the world."
"That's Kyosuke-chan for you… I mean, that's not really changing the world, but it's not my place to say." She gave a bitter smile. "What was it he said? As long as the three of us were together, it wasn't a dream? Hm, I wonder…"
"Bastard… I… I mean, who's to say he isn't still with us? We'll always have him… Our memories of him, right? And he'll always be in our hearts…" Juzo rubbed a tear out of his eye. "So that's why I'll make sure you get better… For him… It's what he wanted."
"Psh, like that'll happen…" She rolled her eyes.
He took a few moments to collect himself. "God, I need a drink… Say, have you ever been drunk? Or, even had anything to drink, ever?"
"I'm almost offended. You think I'm some alcoholic like Kizakura? I'm a dignified teacher, who actually cares about my students… Of course not!"
"Well, you want one? Who knows, it might end up curing your despair or whatever. And it's not like you're their teacher right now." He wandered over to his fridge, pulling out an untouched case of Akiaji.
"It's one in the afternoon, isn't that a little early? Plus you're supposed to be working right now, aren't you?" She tilted her head.
"I've done so much for this school… And what have I gotten in return? Shitty pay, one best friend dead, and the other brainwashed. If anything fucking happens again, I know I'll just end up too late to actually fucking do something, so fuck it." He sighed. "I'm gonna be drinking either way. If you want, you can join, but I won't force it on you."
"Alright, you've convinced me. Pass one over." Yukizome-san rubbed her forehead. "You might even be right about the despair thing…" She gave a pause before tacking on: "As if…!"
Ryota Mitarai
After the events of the past week, focusing on the Neo World Program wasn't high on his priorities. The day was frantic, as everyone was preparing for the party. Ryota stayed in his room, not wanting to get in the way. Nanami-san would probably be upset if he didn't wear any costume, but he could just ask the Imposter for something.
He took a deep sigh as he entered the library, hoping somebody had gotten some work done. As it turned out, he was the first one there. That was probably not a good sign. "Dammit…" He cursed, resting his head on the desk. The sound of a door opening caught his attention. He looked to the front door, which was still shut. His eyes snapped to the archives. The door was wide open. "H-Hello…? Is someone there?"
A figure stepped out, darkened by the lack of light. Their red eyes and silhouette was enough to send Ryota into a panic. "Hello, Mitarai."
"Ah, y-you're…" He stumbled back. "Did you… Did you hurt them? Is that why they're not here!?"
"Calm down. Your associates are fine." The long haired man shut the door behind him. "I set each clock you were likely to encounter on your path from your room to here fifteen minutes early. I needed you alone."
He threw his arms up. "Ah, ah…! You needed me alone…? Are you going to kill me!?"
"No. I have another reason." The man took a seat. "I am here to aid you."
"H-Huh? Wait, but you're… Oh…" He grabbed his chin, like the smart character does when they come to a realization in an anime. "Enoshima, she… You were Nanami-san's friend before… And then you were brainwashed."
"For your purposes, yes." He gave an emotionless nod.
"Okay… But wait, that… Why are you here?" He looked into the taller man's eyes. "This is a trap! You just wanna sabotage us so we can't help you."
His expression shifted from neutral to a frown. "You've reminded me how boring most people are. I'm not here to hurt you, I am not here to sabotage you. Petty reasons like those are boring."
"Huh? What? No wait, I'm not buying it! You're just here to trick me." He clenched his fist.
"With my help, all functions of your project will be done within the week. It is against your own wishes to turn down that offer."
"Well, yeah, obviously I'd love to get it done in a week… But, but I can't trust you!" He shouted.
The man, Kamukura, shut his eyes. "You can trust me. You have the impression you cannot, due to my association with Enoshima. Therefore, the best course of action is informing you that I am the one who killed her."
"You did? Wait, no… The investigators said it was Nanami-san…" He shook his head.
"Nanami-san wouldn't have killed Enoshima, even if she was about to die herself. That's why I had to do it instead." He opened his eyes, returning to his relaxed expression.
"You really… You mean that." Ryota crossed his arms. "You want to… Help…" He accepted.
"Correct."
"Well, I'll have to talk to everyone when they get here… About it… You probably shouldn't be here when they arrive." He sighed.
"A natural assumption." Kamukura nodded, returning to the archive room.
As if on cue, the door opened. Fujisaki-san was the first to arrive, giving him a small wave before taking a seat. In time, the other three arrived. Kimura-san, then Matsuda-kun and Gekkogahara-san together.
"I saw what happened on the news… Are you okay?" The Pharmacist gave a sympathetic look from behind her mask.
"Oh, y-yeah… I'm alright." He looked down to his thigh, lucky it healed well.
"Before we get started, I just wanna say sorry!" Usami gave a timid look. "I've been busy, talking to the students affected by the…" She looked to the Programmer. "The events… I haven't gotten any work done."
"That's fine… It's not a bad thing, y'know." Ryota sighed. "I haven't really thought about it that much."
"Were you busy being all chummy with a murderer?" The Neurologist tilted his head.
Everyone seemed taken aback. Mutsuda-kun had rarely, if ever talked unprovoked. "Huh? Sorry, I don't know what you mean." He mumbled.
"You don't? Do you need me to spell it out for you?" He replied in a passive-aggressive tone.
"What… Who are you talking about?" Fujisaki-san mumbled.
"The Gamer, Nanami… Whatever." He crossed his arms.
"Hey! Don't say things like that!" Gekkogahara-san tapped away at her keyboard. "She's not a murderer, she did nothing wrong!"
"She mutilated Enoshima. They found her head was crushed to a pulp, occurring after the fatal gunshot. If that isn't a sign of a deranged psychopath, what is?"
"That's not how it happened! I'm sure of it!" Ryota shouted. "I-If you want to talk about derangement, Enoshima is where you should be looking!"
"You didn't know her like I did." Matsuda-kun glared.
"I didn't? She… She locked me in a basement for… I don't even know how long!" He had to stand up for himself. "And, and… She almost tortured my classmate… My friend… To death…" He stumbled on his own words.
"You don't get to say that about her. She wasn't always like that. And she could've gotten better."
"Would she have gotten better before or after she tortured that girl?" Kimura-san asked.
"You know, helping her was the only reason I agreed to join this project. If you're so smart, tell me. What happens to this project if I stop helping? Without my talent, it dies here and now."
"You know, that's actually what I wanted to talk about." He took a deep breath. "I know Kizakura-sensei wanted it to just be us, but someone else wants to help… And they'll really speed things up."
"W-Well, if it means Kuwata-kun gets better soon, I'm okay with it." Fujisaki-san smiled.
"Before you agree, at least find out who it is, idiot." Matsuda-kun snapped.
"Oh, s-sorry…" Tears welled in the Programmer's eyes.
"Well, that's the hard part… It's-" He was cut off by the sound of the archive opening.
Everyone tensed up, looking over Ryota's shoulder. "Wahhh!" The rabbit squealed.
"Ah, get back!" The Pharmacist pushed past him, to protect from an incoming attack.
An attack that never came. Instead, Kamukura's cold voice caused him to finally turn around. "I am not here to harm any of you."
Gekkogahara-san wheeled up next to him. "So you want to help, then?"
"Correct." He nodded. Regret began to course through the ashen blonde, this was a terrible idea. Why would any of them agree to work with him?
"Well any help is appreciated. What do you wanna do?" She tilted her head.
Matsuda-kun spoke before Kamukura could respond. "You do know who this is, right? Or is your brain also the size of a rabbit's?"
"I do know who he is! I feel like we can trust him, at least. It is sorta my job." She smiled.
Kamukura shook his head. "Matsuda. Your assertion that Nanami-san killed Enoshima is wrong. I pulled the trigger."
He raised an eyebrow. "So you think that would placate me? Did I screw up when I put the Ultimate Analyst in there, or did I erase basic intelligence by accident?"
"Neither." He shook his head again. "Although you did fail to fully erase Hinata. That's why I'm here."
"Impossible. That reserve was a sacrifice. By saying that, you're denying your own existence." He grew surprisingly defensive.
"Since there is still a remnant of him, buried under my talent, I am here." He continued, ignoring him. "Reversing what you've done to him, he can be brought back. Specifically, through the Neo World Program."
"As I said, it's impossible. To do that would end with destroying yourself. Suicide." The Neurologist glared into red eyes. "Hinata no longer exists."
"Something that has been born, acknowledged, and lived life can't be denied its existence." He refuted. "You stole that from him, and therefore he deserves it back."
"Can you really say he was acknowledged? Sure he was born and lived. But he had no friends, no family, nothing. His own parents signed him over to the school. Can you really call that anything more than tolerance, let alone acknowledgment?"
"Wait, y-you're wrong…" Ryota spoke up, interrupting the argument. "I mean, he still had someone… Nanami-san… She was his friend. Even now, she… She still misses him. And that's your fault."
"Correct. Matsuda, your logic is faulty, he existed, and that can't be denied." Kamukura backed him up.
"Alright, you know what? If you care so much, figure it out without me." Matsuda-kun threw his arms up in a mock surrender. He quickly stormed out of the library, not saying another word.
Not sparing a beat, the Ultimate Hope turned his attention to the others. "How boring. Even without any of you, the time will be drastically shorter. Leave if you want."
"Well, it's my job to help others. So I'm going to help, no matter what." Usami bounced.
"Yeah, what she said. Yukizome-senpai helped me out after I was expelled, so I have to repay the debt." Kimura-san's cheeks went up, indicating she was smiling.
"I have to help out… It's what Maizono-san would have wanted, I know it!" The Programmer gave a determined look.
"Well, I'm in charge here, so I need to stay." He stuck out his hand for a handshake.
Kamukura didn't react. "This bores me. I will finish the neurology, then will come visit you, Fujisaki. Kimura, your drug will be finished by the end of the week. Goodbye." He blinked slowly, before leaving.
"That… That's… I guess that's it for today… I'll see you next week, I guess…" Ryota mumbled, a somewhat reinvigorated resolve.
Leon Kuwata
Hunger tore through his mind. Had they forgotten about feeding him? That'd be despairing. Leon struggled again against his ropes. Since the Nurse cut off her own foot, they wouldn't trust an ankle monitor. On the floor in his room, he sighed.
"Hey! Kuwata-kun! Over here!" A shout came. Was someone in his room? He didn't hear the door open. "C'mon, look at me!" Something was standing outside his window. He leaned forward to get a better view, only for them to disappear. Not like they ran away, they just vanished.
"Hey, quit ignoring me!" The voice said. Leon slammed his head against the wall. He was probably just hearing things. As a bonus, it really hurt. It drew forth a laugh, which came out as a wheeze.
Once he blinked, the person appeared again. This time inside his room. An all too familiar face. Something was clearly wrong. She was dead, shot by Ikusaba.
"Well if I'm dead, how am I here right now?" The Idol giggled. "Kidding, yeah I'm dead! My question for you is: Am I a ghost or a hallucination?"
"Ghost?" What? He shouldn't have been able to say anything. "Or a hallucination? I don't know…" His voice was as he remembered, but something wasn't right.
"Wow, you got the right answer! It was a trick question, I don't know either. But I guess since you're able to talk, it's the latter. Ooh, it might be a dream! Lemme pinch you!"
"How would that work? Ghost or hallucination or dream, you wouldn't be able to pinch me." He rolled his eyes. There was definitely no tongue in his mouth. Why could he still talk? Not knowing the answer shot him with another hit of despair.
"Aw, what's with that look in your eyes? I thought you missed me… You should be happy." She frowned.
"Ha… Haha! You think I missed you? Are you that stupid!? You fuck-up! You're the reason I'm like this!" He couldn't contain it anymore. "You and your fucking boyfriend! That lucky fucker threw me under the bus for a chick he barely knew. And you! If you weren't such a dumb shit, you'd have lived and I'd be fine right now! This is all your fault! You feelin' the despair yet!?"
"Not really… You're just upset." She held her arms behind her back. "You'll get better, I know it! Right now you're in bummerland, but soon you'll be the good old Kuwata-kun!"
"Well, there ain't no funnerland! That's just how it is. Now I'm really starving, so if you min-" His voice cut out, left with a few unintelligible sounds. At the same time, she disappeared.
There were a few knocks at his door, before it opened. "Hey man." Owada-kun rounded the corner, holding something in his uninjured hand. "I, uh, got you some applesauce… I figured you prolly still need to eat…"
Leon pursed his lips and nodded. As much as the hunger pain caused him despair, he probably didn't wanna die yet. He tried to speak a few words, but only managed a few noises. In the end, he sighed.
"I asked the guards outside and they said that I wasn't allowed to untie you, so I guess I gotta fuckin' feed it to you." He shook his head, setting the container down and pulling out a spoon. "You kinda gotta open your mouth."
He reluctantly did, wincing as the spoon brushed against his lip. It was humiliating to say the least, which just led to more despair. As soon as it passed his teeth, Leon bit down. After some trouble swallowing, he released it. They continued until they ran out. It still left him hungry, but not on the verge of starvation. A perfect mix.
"Okay, you good?" Owada-kun exhaled. "I also got told to take care of Tsumiki, fuckin' hell." He got up, cleaning up the small amount on the floor. "See ya tomorrow, I guess." The Biker gave a final wave before leaving the room.
Leon couldn't help but let out another excuse for a laugh. His own friend wasn't even willingly helping him. He was only here because he was told to. That was too great. The Baseballer struggled once again against his restraints. They didn't budge. He was gonna be stuck here a while, for sure.
Chiaki Nanami
Chiaki awoke with a start. Her body was shaking, and a layer of sweat coated her. She was beginning to think if the nightmares were still going a month later, they probably weren't stopping very soon. She tried to sit up, just to find everything sore. Whether it was from the reminder of that day in the maze or her back-breaking work for the party, she couldn't tell. Probably a mix of both.
Eventually, she forced herself up, out of bed. The pain was quickly brushed aside by her own excitement. Even her normal morning urge to immediately play a game was lessened. This was finally her chance to make things up to everyone. They've all gone through so much for her. Because of her. She needed to make sure could finally spend some time away from it all.
With that in mind, she got ready and grabbed her costume. It was a simple Pikachu onesie she'd had since before she came to the academy. It still fit, which was the first thing she'd checked. Next, she made sure that none of her scars were showing. The last thing she wanted was for anyone to look at her and be reminded of it all. The cut under her eye was in an inconvenient spot, there wasn't a good way to hide it. She still had the bandage around her neck and had to walk with a cane. If she showed up limping, it would probably worry them more.
It probably didn't matter though. Every time they'd talked to her while she prepared, they had that sympathetic tone. There wasn't anything wrong with it, but they weren't going to look at her the same again. Today had to be perfect, it would be the only way they would forgive her. Forgive was probably the wrong word, but she still needed to prove herself to them. All those thoughts rolled through her mind as she grabbed her cane and left her room.
It was definitely earlier than she was used to. If there was one silver lining to the nightmares, they were a lot better than alarm clocks. The sun was just coming up, which hopefully gave her enough time to prepare before anyone got up.
She let out a sigh of relief. Nobody else was awake. The Dining Hall was empty, other than the decorations coating the room. She did one last round, making sure everything was still in place. Orange and black decorations covered the room, setting a mood. Aside from those, Chiaki had set up as many props as she could find. Some generic stuff like skeletons climbing out from the ground and bats hanging from the ceiling, as well as a fair share of fake cobwebs strung about. She hadn't hesitated to add some more unique things. Majora's Mask was strapped to one of the skeleton's faces. But her favourite part were the Hell Valley Sky Trees, looming above it all.
When she first started planning, she wanted to take everyone out to an old abandoned castle. Maybe they could have fought dracula, though she wasn't a Belmont so she probably wouldn't be too big a help. Those plans were quickly dismissed when she thought about it. Going out of the school wasn't the best idea. She'd heard about Enoshima's fans uproaring when they found out about her death. Even then, her words had been spinning around her head. It was true, all it took was one angry fan to see Chiaki and then…
After that, a sense of fear filled her. It hurt to have to change such an awesome plan because she was too scared, especially because of everyone else. Sonia-san would've loved to explore a Japanese castle. Owari-san would end up climbing around on the outside. Tanaka-kun challenging the vampire lord to a duel would have been right out of a game. But even then, her mind would freeze at the thought.
"WOAH!" A shout broke through her mental pause. "This is totally bone-chilling!"
Chiaki had made sure nobody came into the Dining Hall at all the day before. This needed to be a surprise for everyone. After one final deep breath, she steeled herself and turned to the newcomer. "Ah, hello Mioda-san." She smiled.
The Musician was dressed in a bridal gown, her hair done in a way that it stood on end. The stitches across her face suited her outfit well. "Gasp! Chiaki-chan's outdone herself!" She followed her eyes. "Ooh, does she like what she sees!? Oh, but her costume is super cute too!"
She ran up to her, pulling her into a strong hug. "Woah… Oh!" It hurt a little, but still felt good.
"Ah, ah! And she's super soft too!" It took Chiaki a moment to realise that she was rubbing her back. "Super duper soft!" Maybe she could use this to get it from Nidai-kun, she was definitely sore enough.
"Okay… That's a little too tight…" She mumbled. Mioda-san swiftly let go, twiddling her fingers. "Thanks… Your costume's cool too."
"Wahoo! A compliment! I could write a song about this! 'My Super Soft Friend Called Me Cool!'" She gave a toothy grin.
Chiaki let out a soft laugh. "I'd like to hear it some time."
"Halt! Justice is here!" A voice drifted with regality through the hall. "It is I, Sparkling Justice!"
"Ah, Sonia-san, you made it. That's a cool mask." She smiled. The Princess was wearing a mask sporting an anime design.
"En garde! I am no longer this Novoselician you speak of! I am the ally of justice whose name makes mankind shudder. I, Sparkling Justice, shall bring justice!" She touched her hand to the mask and began spouting another catchphrase. "¡Justicia completa! ¡El centro de justicia que es atravesado por la justicia! ¡La principal estrella justiciera que brilla en el cielo nocturno! Ese sería yo... ¡Sparkling Justice!"
"Huh!? Do Ibuki's ears deceive her, or was that the language of romance!?" Mioda-san clapped her hands to her cheeks. "And thus, she swoons!" She collapsed into a chair. "Wait wait wait! She needs to tell you something. Sparkling Justice-chan's gotta feel Chiaki-chan!"
"Oh! She is 'totes adorbs'… Ahem, I mean, Sparkling Justice deems this an acceptable use of their time!" She scrambled up to Chiaki, grabbing her arm. "Hm, yes! This is a texture most worthy of the protection of justice."
"Thank you Son- Uh, Sparkling Justice." She corrected herself.
"Hmph, it appears I am early. According to the mere fabric you mortals call time, that is!" With the tone, she knew exactly who it was.
"Ah, Tanaka-kun… Oh, you're not wearing a costume…" Chiaki only let her disappointment show for a moment before smiling again. "Well, it's like you wear a costume everyday, so it's okay."
"The supreme overlord who wields the Four Dark Devas of Destruction would never stoop so low as to partake in infantile costume play!" He laughed boisterously. "But since the Dark Deva's form is only temporary, they had no qualms." The hamsters popped out of his scarf, all dressed up in small bows.
The masked Princess let out a squeal and clapped her cheeks. "That is so 'kawaii'! Justice approved!"
"Your triflings amuse them. A killer of killers is a perfect subordinate when they rise to power! They will allow you to live, for now." He bemused. "As for you. I shall excuse your intolerance. Since you have only recently come to be a demon, you likely don't understand the weight of your outfit!"
"Hm? But I'm Chiaki Nanami… Right now I'm a Pikachu." She tilted her head.
"You fiend, perhaps I underestimated you. For a low level demon to have made a pact beyond my knowledge. I shall grace you with one of my few requests." He smirked. "Inform me of your tribe, or I will smite you where you stand."
"Huh? Oh, it's from Pokemon…" She paused. "Wait, Tanaka-kun, you know what Pokemon is, right?"
"Fuhahaha, the Supreme Overlord of Ice knows all! Yet this talisman has escaped me. Thus, I challenge you to a duel of wits!" He crossed his arms. "Though, it could wait until after the dark ceremony… That's it."
"Yeah, you'll love it! I promise!" She smiled. "We should all have a big Pokemon tournament one day…"
"Ooh, even Ibuki can come! Chiaki-chan will probably win, but we could still have fun!" She jumped up and down.
A few voices could be heard heading down the hall. After a few suspenseful seconds, they rounded the corner. There was a lot of info to process so she took a moment to think.
Koizumi-san was the first to catch her eye. The Photographer was wearing a witch's hat and carrying a broom. Saionji-san was matching, with yellow highlights instead of red. And Soda-kun was…
"Broccoli! Seriously?!" The Musician cackled.
"Ah, come on! It's not my fault… I was tricked! Deceived!" He shouted in reply.
"Dumbass came to me for help, what'd he expect?" The Dancer snickered.
Chiaki gave a surprised look. "If you knew you were getting tricked, why'd you still wear it?"
"W-Well, she took a picture and said she was gonna show Miss Sonia if I took it off…" He sniffled. "So I thought I might as well grin and bear it."
Koizumi-san rolled her eyes. "I only took the picture because it was funny, and I didn't say that. But you really deserve that anyways." She sighed. "What kinda guy bursts into a girl's room early in the morning because he was too lazy to make a costume?"
"This kind!?" He yelled. "Why does she even have a broccoli costume in the first place!?"
"Because I wanted to get you with it last year." She stuck her tongue out.
By the time their argument subsided, a few more of her classmates had shown up. Owari-san was wearing a ski suit of some sort. Nidai-kun stood wearing a maid's outfit, earning a 'woop' from Mioda-san. Hanamura-kun was clad in a bathing suit and wore a disappointed look.
"Ah, come on… Soda-kun, you promised me a bunch of scantily clothed babes! I see a furry, a Serial Killer, some witches and frankenstein! That leaves Pekoyama-san, I guess there's still a chance." He looked around the room. "Though I must say, your outfit looks rather healthy, if you know what I mean!"
"Alright, alright, enough already! I get it, I'm the broccoli guy… Get your laughs out while you can…" He paused to complete silence. "Or not, fine… What's the story behind you three anyway? I get those two, but why are you with 'em?"
"Hanamura-kun decided to join us on our morning exercise routine! It was a brilliant idea!" Nidai-kun shouted.
"My physique isn't cut out for five laps around the track. Though I must say, it was some vigorous activity for the two most fit in the class!" He grinned.
"Oh, and Coach Nekomaru gave us both it! I'm ready to eat!" The Gymnast shouted.
"Well, I was thinking we should wait until everyone gets here. Then we could have all the power-ups." Chiaki took a seat and set her cane across her lap.
"Alright, I'll go get the others!" Owari-san pumped her fist.
"No need, I'm already here." Kuzuryu-kun had wandered in, along with Pekoyama-san. He was wearing a simple pirate outfit, eyepatch and all. She had on a cape and a pair of fake fangs.
"Woah, Blackbeard and Dracula! Have you come for a duel?" The Gamer grinned.
"I'd have thought you'd go for something more 'yakuza'. You know how they dress up their girls down there, don't you?" The Chef groaned.
"Shut the hell up, fucker! You don't know anything about the Kuzuryus!" He waved his prop cutlass around. "If you wanna talk underworld, you'd better be prepared. I could fit you with some concrete sneakers, or if you're so informed, you'd know you'd lose a finger if you said that to-" He froze mid-sentence. "Shit, shit… Fuck, I wasn't thinking… Sorry…"
The Yakuza looked to Chiaki. It took her a second to realise why. "Oh… No no, don't worry. I wasn't even thinking about that…" It was true, her mind hadn't even gone to her encounter with Ikusaba. Instead she thought about Fujiwara and Takashi's scene. "You really do that kinda stuff?"
"Well yeah, but… Listen, I'm not weak or anything but… The Kuzuryu clan will definitely be going through some changes when I'm in charge… There are better ways to keep people in check anyway." He crossed his arms.
"To change a several century old system, you'll face opposition." Pekoyama-san smiled. "To know that and still press forth isn't weakness, it's strength."
"Yeah, yeah, whatever…" He looked like he wanted to say something. "Anyway, who are we waiting on?"
"Well, that leaves Mitarai, Komaeda, and Imposter-san… They better get here soon, I need that group photo." Koizumi-san nodded.
"To make hope like yourself wait is shameful, I apologize…" A familiar raspy voice came from the doorway.
"Hey creep, did you forget to wear a costume?" Saionji-san taunted.
"No, no… I simply chose to wear my uniform." He grinned. "If I decided to wear something, I might've chosen the same thing as someone else. If I were to end up diminishing the effectiveness of one of your costumes, I could just die." His smile faded. "Hm, though I guess this plan backfired. I apologize deeply Tanaka-kun. Curse my luck."
"Heh, your mortal triflings have no bearing on my hellish extravagance. Carry on with your puny life." He dismissed, feeding a carrot to the Dark Devas.
"H-Hey everyone… I'm back…" The last pair had entered the room. "Did you miss me…?"
"Ah, yes! Ibuki missed 'friend shaped' Ryota-chan!" She ran up and hugged him. Chiaki couldn't help but smile at their costumes. The Mitarai-kun she'd first met was standing in the room. And the Imposter's face was on a very different frame.
"Ugh… How do you spend so long in these…? I can barely breathe… And it's super sweaty…" The fake Imposter complained.
"The trick is to take slow, deep breaths. I'm not sure how to help with the sweat." The other replied.
"Gahahaha! Imposter-kun and Mitarai-kun have switched! Brilliant!" Nidai-kun laughed.
"All the credit goes to my friend here… He was the one to think of it. We're late because the mask took a while to perfect… Thanks for your patience." The Imposter grinned.
"Okay, I don't really get how you got so fat so fast, but can we eat already!?" Owari-san had begun to water at the mouth.
"Ah, yeah, I'll get them! I'll be back, one second." Chiaki got up, quickly moving to the kitchen. Once inside, she paused to catch her breath. This was it, her chance. She grabbed the handle of the cart she'd prepared. It was hard to push, but she eventually rolled it out the door.
"Oh my, what is this?" The Princess's shock was clear through the mask.
"Gah! What the hell!?" The Broccoli shouted.
Chiaki had arranged cupcakes on a pan, a pixelated effect coming through from the different colours. She'd spelled out the words 'I'm Sorry' across the front, focussing extra hard to make her writing legible.
"This again?" The Dancer rolled her eyes. "Listen, you didn't do anything wrong, okay? We're not mad at you."
"Well, yeah I know that but… Still Mitarai-kun, Mioda-san… Everyone else… You were all hurt because someone was mad at me…" When preparing this speech, she'd made sure to omit her tormentor's name. "I know you think you're not upset with me… You probably aren't… But still, I needed to make it up to you."
Owari-san walked up and grabbed the cupcake with the apostrophe. "I don't get it. You didn't do nothin' wrong, so why're you sayin' you did?"
"Well…" Her notes had quickly flown out of her mind. "I don't… I don't want you pitying me… I just want you to be happy, okay? You've done so much for me and… I've just caused you all trouble…"
Everyone stood, not saying anything. Eventually, Sonia-san slid her mask up, giving a hesitant smile. "I know that I do not pity you. I 'look up' to you. You have done so much for us too."
"Yes. You were almost murdered while trying to find and protect us. All while we sat there, unable to do anything." The Swordswoman gave an affirming smile. "This apology is unnecessary."
"A-And last time was my fault, not yours…" Mitarai-kun sighed. "I, uh, didn't listen to you when I should have. I was stupid."
"Tch, I didn't get choked by a traitorous pigshit just for you to get all depressed, so shut up already." Saionji-san crossed her arms.
"No! Don't blame yourself… I was the stupid one… I led you down there the first time." She paused. "And last time wouldn't have happened in the first place if… If I'd…" The words caught in her throat.
"Died? Ahaha!" The Lucky Student gave a sharp smile. "If you'd failed down there, it would be a much darker future in store. For one, Enoshima would be alive."
"Quit it, weirdo. You're making things worse." Koizumi-san reprimanded.
"As your Manager, I assure you, your fault is much smaller than ours!" Nidai-kun clenched his fist.
"Y-Yeah, seriously…" The Mechanic crossed his arms. "Plus, like, don't say scary stuff like that. I don't even wanna think about you, uh, y'know…"
"Fuhahaha! Your first lesson as a demon shall be a simple one. There is no room for foolishness such as that. The thought of your death shouldn't be of concern, seeing as you are above the rest of these mortals!"
"Ah, like Tanaka-kun said, don't say that. Especially not in such a tone." The Princess frowned.
Hanamura-kun, who'd been quiet up until now, spoke up. "Ah, well, I wasn't here for a bit, so I don't really know but… Because of you, I got to meet my Kaoru, so… I ain't mad, y'know?"
"Guys, stop… Can you just accept this already? I need you… To just accept this…" She mumbled.
"I'm sorry, but I cannot accept your apology." The Imposter crossed his arms. "I will not allow my Class Rep, my friend to wallow in these delusions. You are only seeking hollow gratification. You aren't going to feel any better, trust me. It'll make things worse over time."
"Why… Why can't you…" She mumbled, falling back into a chair. Wetness fell down her cheeks. There wasn't any confusion, it wasn't rain this time. "I screwed everything up… For all of you… You just wanted to be normal students and I… I ruined that."
"Nanami-san…" The Princess grabbed a seat next to her. "All my life, I've been a political target… I have been kidnapped and taken hostage more times than I can remember." She patted her back. "It never gets easier, knowing my life is on the line… But I can still carry on. I came here thinking I could be just a normal teenage girl, but… I soon realised I could never do that."
"Why are you…"
"What I am saying is… Why does normal matter? Everyone is special in their own way. I know better than to be mad at you for all this. You might not think it, but you are our hero… You saved us from a boring school life. Although this might sound hollow, I will follow through."
"I don't get it… How can I be the hero? The hero always wins… And, and… I didn't win… I was barely saved… I was the kidnapped princess…"
"Hm… Well, sometimes the hero needs saving too…" She shook her head. "In that game you got me, Mario was kidnapped and the princess had to save him, right?"
Chiaki stayed quiet for a moment. The image of Enoshima's face appearing on Bowser flashed through her mind. It would probably make her next playthrough more satisfying. "I… I get what you're saying, but… I don't really think… It's the same, probably…"
"That makes sense, but… I think you're my hero at least. I know how to convince you!" She pulled her into a hug. "My first decree as queen will be instating a new holiday! Nanami-Day!"
A blush touched her cheeks. "What? What do you mean?"
"It will be a celebration of the Nevermind hero! A special day where citizens trade and play video games! It'll be your birthday, of course!" She clapped her hands together.
"That's not a good idea, I think. Though that does seem like a fun holiday…" She mumbled. Everyone else had since taken a seat, watching their conversation unfold. A deep sigh escaped her. "Listen, I am… Really sorry… I really screwed it all up… My stats were too low."
"Well, Chiaki-chan… I don't think so." Koizumi-san shook her head. "Maybe you just levelled up the wrong ones…? Did I get that right?"
"Close enough, probably." The Gamer gave a weak attempt at a smile. She noticed Owari-san had cleared out the cupcakes. "I have more candy in the kitchen… If anyone wants some."
"Hey, before that… Let's get a big group picture!" The Photographer grinned.
"Oh! Oh! Ibuki can play super spooky scary music after!" She pulled out a guitar.
"Graaahh!" Soda-kun wailed. "All your music is already terrifying!"
"I could… Find some halloween anime to put on." The Animator suggested.
"And then after that, we could go trick or treating! Class 78 has that super loaded guy, right? He'd be the guy to give out full sized chocolate bars!" Saionji-san grew a mischievous smile.
A camera flash went off in Chiaki's face. Everyone was happy. She got up to get the rest of the treats. In the kitchen, she let out another sigh. There was always Kamukura-kun to talk to. He'd show up eventually.