Chapter 16:

Case Closed

The trial of Senbo and Aibo was about to reach its conclusion. And in the opinion of almost everyone present, it was about time. Several days have been spent incriminating these bastards, and those days were filled with nothing but courtroom drama, accusations, shouting, tears, and advertisements for SMG4 merch. But once the teenage couple get their just desserts, it will all be worth it, and the Glitchy Gang can get back to their peaceful lives…at least until the next problem of the week caused by Mario's idiocy or someone looking for trouble happens.

Said desserts seemed like they were most assured, what with how much the defense was losing the case. Everywhere the subject went, some incriminating evidence was sure to follow. Good thing, too—otherwise, the jury would have had to take longer to reach a verdict, and SMG4 didn't feel like doing a video based on 12 Angry Men. Maybe some other time…

Some witnesses or people affected weren't called to the stand because their side of the story wasn't interesting enough for the case. Belle was tempted to testify against the defense for the way they manipulated her, but their interaction with her was an indirect one in terms of manipulation, which probably would have complicated things more than needed. Regardless, the court had plenty of evidence from people whose side of the story were interesting enough for the case. Enough for the judge to determine the fate of Senbo and Aibo.

"I heard everything I need to hear to make a decision," said Kevin. "Senbo Mazushi, Aibo Sumato, this court finds you guilty of breaking into Saiko's house, touching her property, drugging Tari…plus, all the money already went to her funeral and memorial service, so fraud."

"We're going to juvie, aren't we, your honor?" asked Senbo worriedly.

"Well, normally, you would be," replied Kevin, "but the persuasive testimony of your parents made it clear that they have a much more effective punishment in mind for you than juvie. Therefore, I am releasing you into their custody. Court is adjourned."

With a final bang of the gavel, it was clear that Senbo and Aibo's fates were sealed. All throughout the trial, the threat of going to juvie was the least of their worries. Uncomfortable as it sounded, they could bear it because they had each other. But now that they were released into their parents' custody, they knew that they wouldn't have each other for very long. The stern parental looks given to them made them sure of this even before the lectures started.

Many of the attendees were ready to leave, but there were a few people who stuck around, each for various reasons. Saiko and Belle because they wanted to see the couple's punishment; Tari, Shroomy, and Whimpu because they were worried the parents would be too hard on them; Meggy because she had paperwork to fill out; and JubJub because…he's a baby.

"Mom, Dad," pleaded Aibo, "before you do anything rash—"

"Save it, young lady," scolded Mrs. Sumato. "We heard everything from the judge and from the nice people you hurt! We raised you better than this!"

"All this time, we thought Senbo was a bad influence on you," scolded Mr. Sumato, "but this proves you're just as bad of an influence on him!"

"Oh no!" gasped Senbo. "Don't tell me we're—"

"That's right," confirmed Mrs. Mazushi. "You and Aibo are officially separated! For life!"

They knew this was coming, but try as they might to mentally prepare themselves for it, the moment those words left the thoroughly-pissed mother's mouth, Senbo and Aibo's entire world fell apart. Instinctively, they tried begging their parents for mercy, even knowing it probably wouldn't do any good.

"Look," insisted Senbo, "we can fix this. Saiko's still playing music. If we work as her stage hand—"

"That's not going to work this time, young man!" interrupted Mr. Mazushi. "Our decision is absolute! You and Aibo are never going to see each other again!"

"But we've been together for a year," pleaded Aibo.

"Well, maybe a year is enough," said Mrs. Sumato.

"We don't know what you two are going to do about new relationships," said Mrs. Mazushi, "but you'll just have to figure it out."

Senbo and Aibo now fully realized that this was the end of their relationship, and they had no one to blame for it but themselves. They also realized that nothing they said or did would make their parents renege on their separation. All they could do was shed a few tears as they shared their final hug, or what they were sure would be their final hug.

"I prefer juvie," sobbed Aibo.

None of the four parents were moved by this tearful hug. They didn't drag their children home just yet, but they still just stood there watching coldly. The obvious reason for this was that they showed no regret for the people they manipulated, hurt, and made cry, and weren't about to coddle them until they learned their lesson.

By contrast, most everybody else watching—Saiko, Shroomy, Whimpu, Meggy, Tari, Belle, and JubJub—couldn't help but watch with concern. They didn't know the couple they triumphed over were under threat of separation, and despite everything that's happened, most of them were too nice to wish something like that onto even their worst enemies. Belle in particular knew how it felt to lose those closest to you, having lost her best friend. JubJub, despite being a baby, could also clearly tell when someone was very sad.

And Saiko…Saiko didn't know what to think of this. On the one hand, this was karma for making her think one of her closest friends was dead, and they were getting a taste of their own medicine. On the other hand, their love for each other was legit, and she knew that if she celebrated their misery the way they celebrated hers, she wouldn't be the bigger person. While these thoughts were running through her head, she could hear her friends talking amongst themselves.

"Aren't their parents going to make them apologize to us?" asked Tari.

"It wouldn't matter," dismissed Belle.

The anime girl felt like she should do something to stop this separation if she thought it was too harsh on even them. But what could she do? The parents sounded super-serious about it. So serious that trying to talk them into leniency would likely have yielded no results. She didn't even know why she was starting to feel sympathy for the scheming couple at all, given the trouble they caused her. Maybe it was because as far as scheming couples go, Senbo treated Aibo very well. Saiko didn't like Senbo, but she liked how he treated his lady, and seeing their relationship end like this shocked her a bit, even if they did bring it upon themselves. But can she really feel sympathy for her enemies? Was there anything she could say to them to help them feel better about their separation? Why was she asking herself these questions when she had a gig to prepare for?

Now that justice was served, Saiko was free to get back to her rock star business in peace. And not a moment too soon—the Grammys were about to start, and her band was nominated. To prepare for it, they spent the last week or so rehearsing the song that launched her career, "Darkest Hour". In their minds, there was no better song to perform than the one that started it all…except maybe a version of the song with all-new lyrics. More on that later.

Soon came the day of the Grammys, and Saiko, Meggy (back in her usual attire), Shroomy, and Whimpu arrived at the building where the award ceremony was taking place, instruments and all. They had their improved version of "Darkest Hour" all memorized, and they couldn't wait to perform it, whether they end up winning that Grammy or not.

Naturally, some of their closest friends were in the audience—your Marios, your SMG4s, your Boopkins, your Belles, your Melonies, and even your Mr. Monitors. All of them were happy to be there, ready to hoot and holler for Saiko's band if they win that Grammy.

But before anyone could know if they won it or not, the band had to perform their song for their supporters first. They already heard from the other bands, and Saiko's was their final performer. As soon as they were called, they wasted no time getting on stage, ready to perform their new rendition of "Darkest Hour".

"Senbo, Aibo, come say goodbye-bo!

Pay for your crimes, you both messed up big time!

Someone should leash your greed; push aside the attention you need!

All you did was betray, now you've become worthless prey!

Those grinchy eyes should see that all you've done made you alone!

You brought it on yourself, don't want to hear you moan!

No forgiving, here's what you're missing!"

Right from the get-go, returning fans could tell that some of the lyrics have been altered to match the current events regarding Senbo and Aibo's actions. Said actions were made public by this point, so a lot of people got it. New fans couldn't tell the difference, but liked the song anyway.

"Come on guys, now, all rock with me!

Time to set your hatred free!

Taunting Senbo's darkest hour!

He hurt you, and he hurt me!

Lying, mistreating!

Pain is all that he brings!

Only wish you knew!

Sorry Senbo, you are through!"

The last time Meggy was in Saiko's band, she provided backup vocals, and her Inkling voice made the song feel more alive. She provided backup vocals here as well, but since her voice was changed following the fall of Snitch Productions, it now sounded more soulful.

"It's time for Saiko's wrath, and take down this sociopath!

And don't forget Aibo! Why she likes him, I don't know!

Never forget the tears I shed when I thought Tari died!

It will take a long time for the pain to subside!

Breaking, entering, still feeling the sting!"

To the audience, the song was just as good now as it was last time, as evidenced by how everyone was dancing to it, namely the Glitchy Gang. Some of their relatives were there too—notably, Shroomy's Auntie Dimitrescu and her daughters. Dimitrescu in particular had tissues as she shed tears for her nephew's success. Vampires can cry too.

There were a certain number of surprise guests that were enjoying the song as well, namely SMG3 and his army of Ugandan Knuckles, all of whom were waving flags and taking pictures on their phones. Terrance in particular had a foam finger made in Saiko's likeness. No one knew the way better than him.

On the subject of surprise guests, Lamar, Sofia, and Masa were also in attendance. However, their focus was less on the Grammys and more on a certain someone turning out to be alive. All throughout the song, they were standing next to that someone, showing her affection in their own special ways. Sofia gave her the tightest but warmest hug. Lamar gave her a fist bump, one robotic arm to another. Masa gave her an affectionate gesture to the head…when he was sure no one was looking, that is.

The burglars that kidnapped Evelyn were here too, with Evelyn herself tied to one of the chairs in the back row. They made sure the helpless diva showed her support for Saiko. Her life depended on it.

"Come on guys, now, all rock with me!

Time to set your hatred free!

Taunting Senbo's darkest hour!

He hurt you, and he hurt me!

Lying, mistreating!

Pain is all that he brings!

Here is where it ends!

You don't mess with Saiko's friends!"

And with that, the song was over, the crowd roared with applause, and the band took a bow for their audience. It was a fun time for everyone, and the anime girl's biggest supporters hoped to God she would get that Grammy.

Time passed as all the bands were sitting in the audience, awaiting the results from Old Man Hobo, who was at the podium speaking to the audience. Saiko in particular was sitting next to the lead member of one of her rival bands, a boy who looked much younger than her. He looked nervous, either about who would win the Grammy or from the anime girl known for her short temper sitting next to him.

"Based on audience response," announced the old man, "the Grammy for best original artist goes to…"

Everyone was on the edge of their seats. Who was going to win the Grammy?

"…Saiko Bichitaru!" announced Old Man Hobo.

"YYYYYYYEEEEES!" shouted Saiko. "YEEEAAAAAH! WOOO-HOOOO!"

The young musician hollered with joy over receiving her award, and the crowd once again roared with applause. She was so overjoyed that she didn't seem to notice the boy sitting next to her looking sad over losing his award. Roughly five seconds later, however, she did take notice, and took time from her victorious hollering to pat the boy on the back before she accepted her award.

"Ah, better luck next time, kiddo," she said comfortingly, the tone in her voice still obviously containing excitement.

While the sentiment was brief, it did seem to lift her rival band member's spirits a bit. Perhaps she learned something from her ordeal with Senbo, and didn't want the boy she just comforted to grow resentful of her like he did. With that said, Saiko couldn't help but run towards the stage to accept the Grammy, all accompanied by the applause from her biggest supporters. The other band members were quick to follow her on stage, and all four of them basked in the glory of applause.

Yet…something was bothering Saiko. As glad as she was to receive a Grammy and, more importantly, that Tari was alive, she couldn't stop thinking about Senbo and Aibo. She didn't know why she suddenly found herself wondering what became of the very people she just publicly decried in her song. All she knew was that they were being separated by their parents, who were NOT pleased with their actions. She remembered the parents saying that they were never going to see each other again, which shocked even her.

"What's wrong, Saiko?" asked Meggy, who seemed to have noticed.

"Nothing," said the anime girl, trying to shake it off. "Nothing's wrong."

Goodbyes were painful, and permanent goodbyes were even worse. By some miracle, Senbo and Aibo's parents agreed to allow their children some time to say their final farewells before they split apart for good. They knew the grassy field where the couple liked to hang out, and drove them there for one last romantic interaction. All four parents watched this last romantic interaction on their usual picnic table with frowns, keeping a close eye on their children in case they try to run away again. Their eyes were still red from crying, which the parents were still unmoved by. The sun was going down when this was happening—just like their relationship.

"What are the odds of your dad getting a new job offer around the time they decided to separate us?" asked Senbo.

"It's like not even God wants us to be together," concurred Aibo.

"Well, God can go suck a—" Senbo was about to say before being cut off by his girlfriend.

"Careful, Senbo," reminded Aibo. "Don't say anything to make our parents regret their generosity. They're giving us time to say our final goodbyes. Let's not ruin that."

Once this gentle-but-firm reminder sank in, the wannabe musician calmed himself and resumed bidding his final farewells to his loved one.

"I wish there was a way around this stupid separation," he said.

"You know there isn't," reminded Aibo. "The city I'm relocating to is too far away for us to walk to each other's houses or meet up at this field. And we can't take the bus, because both of our pocket money privileges have been revoked. We can't even call each other, because they sold our phones as punishment."

"How much money did your folks make from that again?" asked Senbo.

"$80," replied Aibo. "Yours?"

"About half that price," replied Senbo. "We are poor, after all. But they said they're gonna fix that by finding me an afterschool job. That's gonna be fun."

"There's no shame in hard work, cutie-pie," said Aibo. "That's what they've been saying, anyway."

"They've been talking about afterschool jobs for a while now," said Senbo. "I guess our actions just sped up the inevitable."

"Speaking of speeding things up," said Aibo, "we don't have much time left. I have to be at our new house by 6:00."

Even though they spent plenty of time staring at the sunset in their final moments together, the soon-to-be-departed couple felt like they just got started. They didn't want to split, but they had to. Their parents practically commanded it, feeling it was a fitting punishment for breaking into Saiko's house, touching her things without her permission, and making her think her friend was dead.

If their relationship was going to go, they felt like it should go out with a bang. With this resolve, Senbo gave his girlfriend one last hug, and tears started to run down both of their cheeks once again.

"I'm gonna miss you so much," sobbed the wannabe musician.

"I'm gonna miss you too," sobbed an equally-crying Aibo. "Even if you are a bad influence on me, I will never forget you."

Neither of them wanted to let go, but her father had a job offering to take, and she had to go with her parents soon. After what felt like the shortest hug ever, but was actually longer than their usual hugs, they let go of each other, got out of the picnic table, and went with their parents as they took them in the cars parked on the road next to the grassy field.

The car windows were clear enough for Senbo and Aibo to get a good glance of each other from their seats before the cars drove away. At the rate the cars were going, they could see each other for a good long while. But they knew it wouldn't be long before one of their cars had to turn, and they weren't about to let their truly final goodbyes go to waste, whether they could hear each other or not.

"Goodbye, Senbo," whispered Aibo.

"Goodbye, Aibo," whispered Senbo.

With that one last turn the other car had to take, Aibo was gone, truly out of Senbo's life forever.

The End

Well, that's it. Saiko Rocks is officially finished. It's been one heck of a ride making this thing. So much time and energy put into the plot, the illustrations, and even quite a few changes made to it. But in the end, I think it turned out great.

Make sure to favorite and comment on the story if you like it, and every view helps me immensely.

There are a couple people I want to give a special shoutout to: IronSide2021 again for continuing to favorite my story as well as making more artwork based on scenes from the story; and Jacob175 for contributing to the TV Tropes page. Thank you both.

I'm not sure what my next story is going to be, though I'm personally leaning towards another SMG4 fanfic.

Take care, everyone, and thank you for reading!