HOTDR Chapter 15: Surprise in the Dead of Night
Last time on Highschool of the Dead Revamped...
Tajima: Go. You don't want to linger around for too long. I'll hold them off for you.
Rodack: Roger that.
Rika: Tajima!
Tajima (thinking): Rika… Please stay safe.
Rika and Rodack met up with Takashi's group out of pure coincidence.
Takashi: Alright, we need to split up into two teams. One team is going in and the other team is staying out here to guard the hospital. Make sure no one, dead or alive, follows the team inside.
Rodack: I'm going in.
Totsuka: I'll head in with you guys.
Saeko: I'll go. I want to help.
Lars: I'll go with you.
Takashi: Looks like I'm going in too. I can't let my friends go in there without me.
Kiba: Let's do this.
Opening Theme Song: I'm Still Breathing by Maon Kurosaki
Takashi and the group he has assembled were looking left and right in the darkened hospital lobby, keeping an eye out for "them". Takashi took a few steps forward and walked over to the receptionist desk and saw a woman dead on the floor behind the counter with a gunshot wound to the forehead.
Takashi (thinking): Damn. What the hell happened to her? A shot to the forehead like that couldn't have been self inflicted.
Kiba: So what's the plan Takashi?
Takashi: I didn't want to say this in front of the others, but I was pretty sure this was a big place. We'll have to split off into two teams of 3 to cover the entire hospital before nightfall. This place is just too damn big.
Saeko: Fair enough. Squads?
Takashi: Well, I wasn't going to split up you and Kiba-san, Saeko. And I was going to keep Totsuka with me so I could see what the guys got. That just leaves Lars and Rodack.
Lars: It would makes sense that I go with you Takashi. Rodack has the other big weapon. It wouldn't make sense for you two to have the most fire power in the same team.
Takashi: Good point… So Rodack with Saeko and Kiba? Lars with me and Totsuka?
Totsuka: As long as we get to it, don't die, and get to eat something, I'm game.
Rodack: If you two are following me, you're going to listen to me. Are we clear?
Kiba: Whoa, whoa, whoa. First of all, we're not following anybody. Let's get that straight. Second, who made you the leader of this group? Last I checked, Takashi is the leader. So you can bite me.
Takashi: Kiba, cool it. He's right though.
Kiba and Totsuka: Huh?!
Takashi: He's got experience in the Self-Defense Force and not only that, he was a Captain. So he must know what he's doing in situations like this.
Rodack: Not was, am. I "am" a Captain. And I'll bare that title until I die. But thank you, kid. I don't need permission from you to lead a mission successfully.
Takashi: I don't care that you're stuck up, I don't care that you're stubborn. But if you plan to be with us, you're going to have to lighten up. And you're going to have to do it fast. Because if you're in danger, no promises that we'll help you. And I'll leave it at that. Come on Lars, Totsuka. We'll clear the second floor.
Totsuka: We need to find the stairs.
Takashi: Uh… Kinda? I'm not taking the elevator. We'll meet up in a half hour in this lobby, then we'll go after the 3rd floor together.
Rodack turned around and walked away from the group.
Takashi: I take that as you heard me. Kiba, Saeko-chan, take care of each other.
Kiba: Oh you don't have to worry about that.
He gave Takashi a huge smile and thumbs up. Takashi looked at him with a confused look and turned around, walking away with Lars and Totsuka close to him. Kiba clinched the crowbar tightly in his right hand and held the Beretta in his left. Saeko had her Katana unsheathed and ready; lowered with the point of her blade to the floor. Rodack had his AR-15 in his hands lying to the side, seeming very laid back and calm about the situation.
With Rodack taking point, the group was leaving the lobby and went through a set a metal double doors. It led to a hallway that was also dimly lit, but had hospital rooms on the right side of the wall only. Kiba looked to the left and saw that there was a cafeteria in that area with stairs in the middle of the room leading to the second floor which had a small hangout area up there for family to eat together. Saeko looked further down the hall and saw that there was a dead end with the option to go left or right.
Rodack: You two check the cafeteria. I'll scout ahead.
Kiba: Are you sure it's a good idea to split up? Again?
Rodack: I thought that Takashi kid said I was in charge?
Kiba: Alright… whatever asshole.
Kiba walked into the dark cafeteria that was lit periodically with emergency lights.
Saeko: Since there's emergency lights active, that means there's a back-up generator somewhere.
Kiba: Hm? How'd you know that, Saeko-chan?
Saeko: They have to be drawing power from somewhere, right?
Kiba: Ahhh… This is true. I'm going to see what they got in the back.
Saeko: Be careful.
Kiba went over to the food line of the cafeteria; it was an L-shaped cafe area that had sections labeled with different food groups along the long part of the L-shape and the shorter end of the L-shaped tray line was where drinks and silverware were found. He hoped over the counter looked around to make sure there was no undead lurking around. He poked his head through the plastic flaps hanging down from the top of the doorway and saw nothing back there but a lot of abandoned dishes.
Saeko (yelling out): Ah!
He heard a loud clank and Saeko yell out from the main area.
Kiba (thinking): No! Saeko!
He immediately ran and jumped over the counter without using his hands and landed in front of a table that he nearly fell over. He then saw that Saeko was on the floor with her leg caught in a folding chair. He hurried over to her aid.
Kiba: What happened to you?
Saeko (ashamed; embarrassed): I couldn't see… And I tripped on this chair.
Kiba: And you told me to be careful. You gotta watch where you're going, okay?
She nodded to him while blushing. Kiba heard footsteps behind him and turned around to see Rodack standing in the doorway to the cafeteria.
Rodack: Is she alright?
Kiba: Yeah. I think she's okay.
Rodack: Then let's keep moving.
He turned and continued down the hall. At the end of the hall the group made a left and came across double doors that were barricaded with hospital beds and lobby chairs.
Rodack: Ho-ly shit…
Kiba: Well this definitely isn't good.
Saeko: We need to go.
Takashi, Totsuka and Lars were just entering the second floor from the staircase. Lars closed the door to the staircase gently to not draw any unwanted attention. On both sides of the hall were several rooms. The three moved down the halls and came across a desk where nurses worked with the doctors. There was a bloody bench against the wall to the right of the desk and a broken door mirror next to it.
Totsuka: I wonder what happened here…
Takashi: No telling with all that's happened. There doesn't seem to be any undead up here, so everyone must've been evacuated.
Totsuka: That makes sense. But even if everyone was evacuated, that doesn't explain the blood.
Lars: Shh. I hear something.
The group stopped in place and listened for a moment. They all heard what seemed like banging from down the hall. Takashi led while Lars covered the rear and Totsuka moved along in the middle of those two. At the end of the hall was a left turn and a right turn. The banging was coming from the right but there was no noise coming from the left.
Totsuka: Are you sure it's a good idea to go towards the creepy banging?
Takashi: We have to. Gotta make sure this floor in particular is safe for everyone.
Totsuka: Yeah… Yeah, you're right.
They followed the sounds of banging and heard one of "them" hissing and snarling behind the door.
Totsuka: Yeah, I've seen this before. The black guy dies first.
Takashi: You're not black.
Totsuka: Below the waist, I am. *he nudged Lars on the arm* Ah? Huh? No?
Lars: No.
Totsuka: Okay.
Takashi: I'll open the door. Lars, Totsuka, be ready to handle it.
Lars nodded. Takashi turned the doorknob and pulled the door open, releasing the undead towards Lars and Totsuka.
Totsuka: Got it.
Lars backed away and Totsuka swung from his right side, smacking the infected across the face and sending its forehead crashing into the wall. The undead man collapsed to the floor and Totsuka slammed his baseball bat down onto his head. Lars poked his head into the room to see if there were anymore lingering around in there.
Lars: We're good.
Takashi: Good swing, Totsuka. You play baseball?
Totsuka: Yeah. I only played for a year though. I was a DH.
Takashi: Designated hitter? Oh really?
Totsuka: Hell yeah!
Takashi: That means you weren't good at anything else in the sport.
Totsuka: Hey, come on man.
Takashi: I'm just messing with you. Lighten up. You're the little brother of the group now.
Totsuka: What about Nado?
Takashi: He's… I still haven't figured out the little asshole yet.
Lars: He's not going to be easy to get along with.
Takashi: Seems like he's just mad at everything. I don't know. We'll figure him out sooner or later.
Lars: Takashi… I have a question.
Takashi: What's up?
Lars: If one of us dies… what do you want us to do about it?
Takashi: Hm… I honestly haven't thought about it. I don't plan on losing anyone any time soon, so I haven't put much thought into it.
Totsuka: I think we should always bury our friends.
Takashi: I like that. Bury the one's we love. But I don't plan on burying anybody here. It looks like we're pretty much safe here.
Lars: Let's not jinx it, Komuro.
Takashi: True. Let's split up and search the rooms. Yell out if you need help.
Totsuka: Roger dodger.
The three broke off into individuals and searched the rooms of the second floor quietly and thoroughly. After searching the rooms for a while, the three gathered in the middle of the hall, in front of the nurses desk.
Takashi: You guys find anything?
Lars: There's a lot of medical supplies behind the nurses desk in the back. Plenty for Nurse Shizuka to use.
Takashi: That's good. Leave them there. We don't need to move them.
Totsuka: Every room has a stand-in shower. No tubs though. Sorry for the ladies that want to soak. But I tested a few of the rooms and the water is still running.
Takashi: That's fantastic news. Water is a must; bathing and hydration is super important.
Totsuka: And water gun fights!
Takashi: Uh…
Totsuka: And water balloons?! Wet t-shirt contest?!
Lars: Stop.
Totsuka: Sorry about that. I blacked out for a minute.
Takashi: Wow. Anyway! Let's get back down to the lobby. The other's are probably waiting on us.
The three went to the staircase and went quietly down the stairs; Takashi lead, Totsuka in the middle and Lars as caboose. The got back to the lobby and Rodack was standing around with his gun lowered, keeping watch. Kiba and Saeko were sitting on the couch together and looking at a magazine.
Kiba: Takashi!
Kiba and Saeko stood up and hurried over to the guys rejoining them.
Saeko: We were starting to worry about you.
Kiba: We were about to go after you. *nervously scratches the back of his head* Heh, heh. Heh... Ahh…
Takashi: You look like you did something bad.
Kiba: No! That's not it… We uh…
Rodack: We've got a problem. And it needs to get taken care of.
Takashi: Hm?
Rodack led Takashi and the others to where Kiba, Saeko and Rodack were last. They barricaded double doors had one large window on it that was right about chest level, so it was relatively easy to see into. Through the window, the group could see a large amount of infected wandering around aimlessly.
Takashi: Damn…
Rodack: Yeah, damn. We need to clear this out if we plan on living here.
Takashi: I thought you weren't staying?
Rodack: Would I be helping you if I didn't plan on staying?
Takashi: Hm… Fair enough.
Kiba: What's the plan here? We taking care of this now?
Rodack: No. It's getting dark soon. Is the second floor clear?
Takashi: Little blood here and there, but it's clean.
Rodack: Clear.
Takashi: Huh?
Rodack: Clear. You said "clean". The term is "clear".
Takashi: Dude, when are you going to stop being such a douche?
Rodack: Excuse me?
Takashi: Ever since we met you, you've been trying to have a bigger dick contest with every guy here. If you honestly can't stand us, then go. We don't need you here.
Rodack: I'm not here for you.
Takashi: Hm? Is that so?
Rodack: I'm here because I made a promise.
Kiba: A promise to what?
Rodack: That's none of your concern.
Takashi: Well, whatever the reason. You can't keep treating us like we're a bunch of kids to you. You don't know what we've had to do so far. And just remember, there are more of us than there are of you.
Rodack looked at Takashi's face and realized that he was serious. Rodack closed his eyes and shook his head in disbelief and took a few steps away from the group to think.
Takashi: If you have any suggestions, I'm all ears.
Rodack: It's late. We deal with that in the morning. We can just have two people guarding at night in shifts. We take turns. Two people guard for an hour, then next two and so on until morning.
Takashi: Now that's a good idea. You should start working with us more often instead of against us.
Totsuka: So what? We just let those things have a party under the same roof as us until morning?
Kiba: Seems like that's the plan. I don't mind actually. I miss having neighbors.
Lars: I wouldn't call them neighbors, Minami-san.
Kiba: Why not?!
Lars: Normally, your neighbors don't try to eat you.
Kiba: While you bring up a valid argument, it doesn't stop the fact that they are indeed neighbors.
Takashi: Good, God. Let's go.
Saeko: We should all rest while we can. Let's hurry and get everyone inside.
The six went outside to the others of their group and saw that nightfall was approaching rapidly. The sun was beginning to set and a cool breeze was blowing in the air.
Takashi: Woo. Fresh air!
Rei: Takashi!
Rei quickly hugged him. Kiba walked over to Momosuke and the two did a brotherly secret handshake; the same one they did when they were reunited in the halls of Fujimi Academy.
Saya: How'd it look in there?
Takashi: Not too bad. A little blood splashed around, but we can wipe that up. There is a problem though.
Shizuka: What is it?
Tak: What's up?
Takashi: There's uh… Let's go inside.
Takashi led everyone inside; Kiba went over to Rika and helped her inside. Even though it was dark, the group stayed close together and stayed near the emergency lights. Ame, Rukina, Nado, Shizuka, Alice and Chie stayed near the lobby and sat down while the others went over to the problem.
Rei: Well… I see the problem.
Takashi had led them to the double doors that were barricaded with furniture. Everyone could see clearly into the hall behind the double doors due to the emergency lights throughout the hall.
Kohta: Well this is very discouraging.
Takashi: No, it's not too bad. We just have to take care of it before it gets out of hand.
Rodack: What we were going to do is have two people stand watch for an hour or 2 and then swap out two people to take up the next shift. Just until tomorrow.
Momosuke: We can't take care of this tonight?
Takashi: No. It's too dark in here. It'll be safer in the morning.
Rika: That's smart. Good job, kid.
Takashi: Thank you, Rika. It was Rodack's idea to have someone always here on guard though. can't take all the credit.
Rika: You too, Captain. Good job.
Rodack: Thank you.
Takashi: Okay everybody. Let's get settled in. I have a feeling that we're going to be here for a while.
Kiba: Oh! I call top bunk!
Saya: It's a hospital, stupid. There aren't bunk beds.
Kiba: Oh yeah… I call-... Uh…
Momosuke: Anyway. Let's go upstairs, Saya. Pick out our room?
Saya: Y-Yeah. Okay, sure.
Everyone began making their way over to the stairs while Takashi, Rika and Rodack stayed in place. Saya and Momosuke kept behind everyone so that as soon as they all went to the staircase, Momosuke stopped Saya.
Saya: What's wrong?
Momosuke: I have to talk to them first.
He walked with Saya over to the group leaders and patted Takashi on the shoulder.
Momosuke: Nice job, Takashi. Clearing out this hospital with the guys and all.
Takashi: Yeah. It was pretty simple. There weren't many of "them" inside because the hospital was evacuated. The main problem is right next to us.
Takashi looked over to the double doors containing the large group of infected.
Rika: Is there anything we should know about? Any food, flashlights, anything?
Rodack: The kitchen has food. Plenty to hold us over for a while. Only thing we're lacking are drinks. Only thing here is water from the fountains, but I don't know how the pipelines are. The water seems to work with the fossetts, but I tried to use the water fountains and nothing.
Takashi: We should head out for that soon. Water is a must. Plus, I could use something to wet my whistle.
Momosuke: Wet your what?
Takashi: When do you want to head out, Rodack?
Rodack: Hm? You expect me to go with you?
Takashi: Yeah. I could use someone with your skillset. We are "just a bunch of kids" after all.
Rodack: Hmph.
Rika: You should go, Rodack. They could use your help.
Momosuke: You'd be less of an asshole if you went.
Rodack: Me becoming friends with you isn't my goal. But I am still a man in uniform, and I do follow my superior officer's orders. I'll go with you.
Takashi turned around and saw Lars, Rukina, Kiba and Saeko walking up behind them.
Takashi: What are you guys doing down here?
Kiba: We need water, don't we?
Saeko: You don't think we're letting you two go alone, do you?
Takashi: Uh…
Kiba: Yeah. Nice try.
Lars: I'm going with you.
Takashi: Lars…
Kiba: I'd go with you, but Captain Douchebag is going. So I'm out, but I'll be giving you support. Saeko said she wanted to go in my place.
Takashi: Are you sure you want to go, Saeko? I mean… things didn't really go according to plan last time you guys went on a run at night.
Saeko: I won't let that happen again. I hesitated last time.
Kiba: And she has a real sword now. No need to worry about her.
Takashi: Lars, if you go, what are you going to take?
Lars: The baseball bat. I'm use to using it.
Takashi: Fair enough. Rukina, what are you doing here?
Rukina: I… was wondering if I can go with you guys and learn how to be a runner.
Takashi: Absolutely not. At night is the most dangerous time to be a runner. Not a chance.
Kiba: Oh come on, Takashi. Let her try. She can take my gun if she wants.
Rika gave him a death stare.
Kiba: Did I say my gun? She can take Rika's gun.
Takashi: But-
Saya: How is she supposed to learn if you don't let her try, Komuro?
Takashi: But at night?!
Lars: I'll watch over her.
Takashi: Well so will I. I can't let you guys take her without me there.
Lars: You don't trust us?
Takashi: It's not that. It's that I don't feel comfortable leaving my friends with a newbie runner at night after what happened last time.
Rukina: What happened last time?
Takashi: I'll tell you about that later. For now, let's get going. And Rukina, you're sure you want to go?
Rukina: Yeah! I won't get in the way or anything!
Kiba walked over to Rukina and handed her the Beretta with the handle facing her; he was holding the pistol by the barrel. She nervously took the gun from Kiba.
Rukina: It's a lot heavier than it looks.
Kiba: You'll get use to the weight. You know how these work right?
Rukina: You just aim it and shoot?
Kiba: Pretty much, yeah. Look through the little pins on the top for aiming and squeeze the trigger when you are ready to shoot. The safety is near your thumb.
Rukina: Okay… Got it!
Takashi: If you're going with me, let's go!
Lars: Right behind you.
Saeko: I'm here.
Rodack made a scuffing noise and followed behind the others as they exited through the revolving doors. Saya noticed that Momosuke was staring at the group as they walked away into the night. She tugged on his shirt to get his attention.
Saya: Hey.
Momosuke looked to her.
Saya: Are you okay?
Momosuke: Hm… I should be going with them.
Saya: What makes you think that?
Momosuke: I don't know… I just have a really bad feeling about this.
COMMERCIAL BREAK - HOTDR - HIGHSCHOOL OF THE DEAD REVAMPED
Takashi was leading the group with his Ithaca shotgun in hand, Rukina had the Beretta in her left hand with her finger on the trigger. Lars was walking casually with his eyes shifting left and right, watching out for them. Saeko was staying close to Takashi and Lars with her sword still in its sheath and Rodack was bringing up the rear with his AR-15 rifle ready. He took out the magazine and inspected it to see that he only had 15 rounds remaining. Luckily, he still has one full magazine left in his ammo pouch on his waist.
Takashi: We're going to this local store that looked like it was vacant earlier today.
Saeko: The one that was next to the pet shop?
Takashi: Yeah. I'm sure there's more than just drinks in this place. It's only been about a week since the outbreak. There's no way it's cleaned out this fast.
Rodack: Let's try to keep the noise down to a minimum. These things aren't blind you know.
Takashi: Huh? Yes, they are Rodack. They walk right by us.
Rodack: No, they are not. They see only what's in front of them.
Takashi: That's impossible. We've been right next to them and they haven't seen us.
Saeko: He's right. We've been really close to them without them noticing us. We've just been quiet.
Rodack: Listen to yourselves. "Next to them.". They have tunnel vision. They can see only what's directly in front of them and even then, they can only see a few meters ahead. They have no peripheral vision and they're as dumb as a bucket of hammers. All they know is kill and eat. But they aren't blind.
Takashi: I would test it out, but I'm not stupid. Lars?
Lars: No.
Takashi: And neither is Lars.
Rukina: Is there anything else we should know, Mister Rodack?
Rodack: Just call me Rodack, kid. And not at the moment. I think that's all I know about them. Other than they can hear really well.
Takashi: Well, we knew that from the beginning. Let's pick up the pace a little bit. I don't want us to be out here all night.
They group travelled along the left side of the street; the side that had the local shop located on it. The group passed the pet shop by and Rukina looked inside to see that there were some animals still locked inside some of the cages.
Takashi: Alright. When we're in, we need to stay together. I don't want any dead friends tonight. That goes for you too, Rodack.
Rodack: Don't worry about me. Worry about your friends.
Takashi: Hm…
Takashi looked and saw Rukina staring into the pet shop, looking at the whining animals trapped in the cages.
Takashi: Rukina-chan?
Rukina: Hm?! Yeah!
Takashi: You okay?
Rukina: Yes. Sorry. I'm alright.
Takashi: Come on. We're going in.
Takashi opened the door quietly and Lars went in along with Takashi first. Rukina and Saeko followed and Rodack came in last, closing the door behind themselves.
Takashi: Stay close and search quietly.
Lars: I have the only bookbag. If you find something, please bring it to me.
Saeko: Are we looking for anything and everything or solely water and other drinks for now?
Takashi: Mainly fluids. But if you find something worth keeping, take it. Any non-perishable food helps a ton.
Rodack: Copy that.
Takashi: Yo, Rodack. You have to calm down with the military stuff man. When are you going to loosen up?
Rodack: In the Self-Defense Force, there is no loosening up.
Takashi: Eh… Of course. Try to find something useful for the group will you, Sergeant?
Rodack: Captain.
Takashi: Close enough.
The group began branching off from one another, searching around but making sure to stay within range of each other. Saeko drew her sword and walked over to the counter, leaning towards it and looking over. Rodack went to the corner of the store and checked out the restroom. Takashi went to the employee break room and took a look around in there. Lars went ahead and began gathering drinks from the shelves along with any edible snacks he could see.
Rukina (thinking): While they're doing that…
She slowly backed away from the group and opened the exit, letting herself out. She went next door and twisted the doorknob to the pet shop; it was open. She let herself in and closed the door quietly behind herself. She looked around the dark, yet moonlight lit pet store and saw that there were several animals locked in cages, some of them dead from starvation or dehydration. There was a cat alone in a cage that was lying down and making a low growling noise as if it were about to die. There were also a few dogs locked up together that were rather thin looking in the stomach area. Most of the birds were dead and a few of the hamsters, gerbils, and guinea pigs were dead as well.
Rukina: Oh no! Who left you guys in here like this?
She opened one cage that had two dogs in it and they came out one by one at a slow pace. She could tell that they didn't have much energy left. It has been nearly a week since the apocalypse started and they haven't had food or water since then. She opened the cage for the cats and they were so low on energy and near death by dehydration that they didn't move.
Rukina: I'll get you guys some water! I'll be right back.
She ran over to the counter and grabbed one of the bottles of water that were on the counter top. She went back over to the animals and poured half of the water into the dog's bowl and the rest into the cat's bowl.
Rukina: That's not enough for all of you… I'll find more for you guys.
She went to a room that was labeled "Employees Only" in bold print. She figured that there must be drinks or some kind of refreshment in the break room. She opened the door and reached her hand to the left, checking for a light switch. She felt the switch and flicked the light on. And what she saw made her gasp in fright. In the break room were two dead employees that were bitten and turned into "them". She frantically tried to get her firearm from her belt loop and accidently switched the safety off, firing a round into her right thigh as she grabbed the handle. She yelled out in pain and fell to the floor.
Takashi: You guys hear that?!
Lars: Rukina?
Saeko: Where is she?
The group heard her screaming from next door.
Rodack: Dammit!
They hurried out of the local store and went to the pet shop to see Rukina on the ground, kicking and screaming as she was being bitten by two of "them"; one on her forearm and the other biting the right side of her neck. As they opened the door, the animals that she had set free immediately ran for the exit.
Takashi: Fuck!
Rodack aimed his rifle at the undead but didn't fire because he couldn't get a shot off; Rukina was moving too much. Saeko rushed over to her aid and drove her sword directly into the forehead of the infected that was chomping at her arm. Lars followed Saeko over and kicked the zombie off of Rukina's neck, taking a chunk of flesh with it. He slammed the baseball bat twice, making sure that he killed it. Rukina lied there on the floor, alive but twitching because of her body going into shock from the sudden immense blood loss. Takashi and Saeko got on the floor next to her.
Takashi: Rukina, we're going to get you out of here, okay? Stay with us!
Blood was running from her mouth and she couldn't respond. She was looking up at the two of them and tears began rolling from her eyes.
Takashi: We aren't going to leave you here.
Rodack: We're not far from the hospital. Let's get a move on.
Takashi put his shotgun in his left hand and put Rukina's arm over his shoulder and Lars grabbed her other arm, lifting her up. The two began moving with her as her feet were on the ground and she was trying to walk, but she was far too weak. Saeko led the way and Rodack brought up the rear. Once they got outside, they see some undead walking their way that was drawn in by the gunshot Rukina fired into her own leg.
Saeko: Keep going. I'll cover you.
Takashi: Okay!
Saeko led the way as she ran ahead to decapitate the undead that was blocking their path. She easily sliced off the heads of everyone of them at the shoulders, leaving nothing but a bloody nub. Rodack, who was conserving his remaining 15 rounds, was covering Saeko and making sure none of them got to her.
Rodack: Hey!
Rodack yelled out to Saeko because one of "them" was strolling on over to her left, her blind spot. She turned and sliced the head off of the infected that was about to sneak attack her, cutting its head off at the eyes.
Saeko: Thank you!
Rodack nodded and the group continued forward. Rukina was beginning to lose consciousness and was beginning to get heavier because she was becoming dead weight. Lars stopped and picked up Rukina bridal style and carried her. Takashi cocked his shotgun and blew the brains out of an undead man that was walking towards them from the right.
Momosuke: You guys hear that gunshot?
Saya: Yeah. It sounded close… Like-
Kohta: A shotgun blast.
Momosuke, Saya and Kohta were in the cafeteria of the hospital with Shizuka, Ame and Alice. They found a few flashlights and were using them as Shizuka prepared a few snacks for them since they didn't have electricity.
Rukina tried to stay conscious as long as she could and looked up at the moon above. She began thinking of her sister and brother and how she was going miss them. Tears began streaming down her cheeks again and she closed her eyes.
Rukina (thinking): Ame… Nado… I'm so sorry…
? (male voice): It's not your fault, Rukina.
Rukina (thinking): Huh?! What was that?
? (female voice): We're here for you and your siblings.
Rukina (thinking): Mom… Dad...?
Rukina's Dad: It's alright. You were trying to do a good thing. That's all we could ask for from our baby girl.
Rukina's Mom: He's right. Your brother and sister will understand. You can join us now.
Seeing what she thought was her mom and dad again brought tears of joy to her eyes before she closed them for one last time. But this time, she had a smile on her face.
Lars: Takashi.
Takashi: What's wrong?
Lars looked down to Rukina and saw that she was now lifeless in his arms. Saeko looked away, trying to fight back her tears and Rodack looked away as well. Takashi was in complete shock; he had just lost a friend while he was in charge of the supply run.
Takashi (thinking): Dammit… Dammit! How could I… let this happen…
Rodack: Come on. We're… almost there.
The group walked slowly back to the hospital, depressed over their loved one. All of the dead that were around them were slain so they had a moment to rest and grieve over Rukina. Once they got to the hospital, Momosuke and Saya were among the first to see them and Lars was still carrying Rukina bridal style. Her leg was covered in blood as well as her neck, shoulder and her forearm.
Saya (quietly): Oh no…
Momosuke: Shit…
Ame: What's wrong you guys…
Ame walked outside behind Momosuke and Saya and saw her sister in Lars' arms, lifeless and cold looking. Ame's heart sunk to her stomach and made her collapse to her knees with tears in her eyes.
Ame (thinking): Rukina…
She fainted and laid out on the ground next to Saya, who quickly went to her aid. Saya gently patted her cheek to try to wake her up.
Momosuke: What now, Takashi?
Takashi: I… I don't know…
Saeko: We have to bury her. That's a must.
Lars: She's right. We can't leave her like this. And she was bitten, so we can't let her turn either.
Momosuke: We don't let friends turn.
Shizuka: What's going on out- *gasp*
Momosuke: Ms. Shizuka, please make sure Alice doesn't come out here. I'd really rather her not see this.
Rodack: Get the girl inside. It's chilly out tonight.
Momosuke and Saya picked up Ame and went inside while the others went around to the back of the hospital to bury Rukina.
Later that same evening, Nado was watching over Ame as she slept. For comfort, the group took the mattresses off of the metal frame beds and just put them on the floor together as on bed for most rooms. Nado and Ame's room has 3 beds in it and Nado put all three mattresses together and laid Ame down on them. He was sitting in one of the chairs that were mainly there for the visitors of the patients that would come to visit.
Nado (thinking): Ame… What are we going to do without Rukina? I know I seem like I hate you two… and I don't know why I'm like that. But I'm going to change for you.
Nado pulled out Kiba's Beretta from his belt loop and looked at it.
Kiba (Nado's Memory): I'm sorry about Rukina, kiddo. Here. Protect your big sister. If anyone comes after us, I want you to be there to defend her.
He examined the gun and saw that it only had 2 bullets left in the clip and one in the chamber. He flicked the safety to on and set it down on the nightstand with the lamp next to him. He got out of his seat and began to walk over to the door to go use the restroom.
Ame: Nado-chan…
Nado: Ame?! You're okay!
Ame: Hey, Nado…
Nado: Are you feeling okay?
Ame: I'm alright. Where's Rukina?
Nado: Ah… She uh… She didn't make it, remember?
Ame then began to have flashbacks to seeing her dead sister in Lars' arms in front of the hospital.
Ame: Oh… Now I remember…
Nado: Yeah… It's pretty late. I was watching over you to make sure you were alright. I didn't plan on sleeping until I knew you were okay.
Ame: That's so nice of you, Nado.
Nado: Yeah. I figured I'd be a little nicer to you. You are my sister after all.
Ame smiled at him and he smiled back before leaving the room to use the restroom and closing the door behind himself.
Ame (thinking): Rukina…You and I… were always one...
She thought back to her smiling face and then had a thought about her turning into one of them and eating innocent people.
Ame (thinking): No… I know you're in a better place. And now…
She looked over to the gun Nado laid on the nightstand. She crawled over to the nightstand and grabbed the gun. She went back over to her spot on the beds and sat there with the sheets covering her legs.
Ame (thinking): Now I'll join you.
She put the Beretta in her right hand and put it to her temple. Nado came back into the room for a brief moment.
Nado: Hey, Ame. You- *gasp*
Ame: I'm sorry.
She pulled the trigger and fired a round into her skull, sending pieces of her brain and fragments of her skull to the floor and nearby wall. Her lifeless body plopped to the bed and she laid there with her eyes closed. Nado dropped to his knees with tears in his eyes. Momosuke, Kiba, Saya, Takashi, Rei and Totsuka were the first one's to reach Nado and Ame's room. Momosuke and Kiba were in there boxers, Saya was in a nightgown that she took from the mall, Takashi was wearing pajama pants and a white t-shirt, Rei was wearing short shorts and Takashi's school shirt, and Totsuka was wearing gym shorts and a t-shirt. Everyone stood there and stared at the body of Ame who was lying in a puddle of blood.
Ending Theme Song: Color Me Dark by Maon Kurosaki
The next morning, Takashi and Lars were helping Nado dig a grave for his sister, Ame, next to Rukina's grave. It was around 9am and everyone was awake; no one got much sleep after what happened last night. Kiba, Saeko and Momosuke were dealing with the problem they had on the first floor. Momosuke would open the door and Kiba would use the bat while Saeko used her katana to make light work of the infected. Momosuke would only let out two or 3 at a time and then close the doors, giving Saeko and Kiba time to kill them. Then repeated the cycle until the infected stopped coming. Once they stopped coming, the three went into the hall behind the double doors to clear out any remaining undead.
Tak, Kohta, Chie, Saya and Rei were in the basement of the hospital working on the generator to get it working once again so they can have power. Thanks to Saya's brain and her strange knowledge of engineering, she was about to get the power back on with Tak and Kohta doing all the dirty work.
Shizuka (voiceover): Things are bad right now… But they'll get better. I know it…
Rei (voiceover): We have to be ready for anything… even losing a friend.
Tak (voiceover): We need to be more careful. Watch each others back and look out for each other.
Saeko (voiceover): Even after the death of a friend, we have to keep going. No matter how tragic it was.
Lars (voiceover): We've found a place to live. I will protect it along with my friends until my last breath.
Kiba (voiceover): This hospital is huge. We'll have to constantly be on guard to make sure it stays ours.
Momosuke (voiceover): I'll protect Saya, Kiba and all my friends with everything I've got.
Takashi (voiceover): We're not losing anyone else… Ever again.
END CHAPTER 15
NEXT TIME ON HOTDR
Tak: Well… This chapter sucked.
Saya: We lost both the twins…
Momosuke: And Takashi looks a little out of it.
Rei: Yeah… he hasn't been talking much either.
Kohta: We really should make sandwiches and sing songs together for the ones that we've lost today guys.
Kiba: Pfft. You just like eating food.
Kohta: While that is true, I think we should do something for the girls. After all… I kinda liked Rukina.
Rei: Awww! Really, Kohta?
Kohta: Yeah. She was sweet… And funny… and when she was changing-
Momosuke: OKAY!
Kiba: Whoa there, Kohta!
Saya: Cover Alice's ears!
Momosuke: Moving on! We're going to be introducing some new guests in the next few chapters! And I'm excited!
Rei: How do you know that?
Momosuke: Me and the Author are… close. Let's just say that.
ALL: Next time on Highschool of the Dead Revamped!
Saeko: A Time in the Dead.
Kiba: Hm… I like the title name. I wonder what's going to happen next.
Lars: Has anyone seen Takashi?
Rei: No… I haven't.
Saya: He'll come around. We can't save everybody anymore.
Author's Note: Yo! Chazzard here! I hope you guys enjoyed this rather… sad chapter… Don't worry! We won't kill anyone else off; or will we? Idk. But here's the real news guys. Black Friday is coming up this week and we work retail, so Chapter 16 WILL NOT be released on this coming Saturday just because myself and the co-author are going to be extremely busy working over 45 hours this week. So bare with us! We may not have Chapter 16 up this Saturday, but definitely look for it the first Saturday of December! Thanks for understanding and thank you for the all the support! We've really enjoyed writing HOTDR for you guys and the fact that you keep coming back, excited for the next chapter. That really means a lot to us. If you want to stay up to date on release dates and changes, you can follow us on Twitter HOTDRevamped! Also! I will be releasing the first chapter of an Original Series of mine by the name of Kira no Kill in late winter, so keep an eye out for that as well!
Enjoy your holidays guys!
~ChazzardXD & IamJstar