"You've got to come back. Now. The kids are missing."

It's the worst news that Aguri could have possibly received.

Hands shaking, eyes wide, she murmurs "What?"

She can barely even believe it.

"What do you mean they're missing!?"

She's standing outside of a stadium filled with thousands of people, but suddenly she's in her own world. Heart beating fast… breaths quickened, her vision closes in. She feels ready to pass out.

"I mean…- they disappeared," Karasuma insists, his intonation odd. "The two of you left and I noticed that they were being unusually quiet. I decided to check in on them and…" A pause. "They were gone. Every single one of them's left."

'Left?' Aguri thinks. 'Where to!?'

And… and what's everyone supposed to mean? Nagisa? Okuda? Itona? Akari?

Her… her sister wouldn't do that. Her sister wouldn't wander off recklessly. If she's disappeared then it's just because she's… messing with Karasuma. Playing a prank. That's all.

('No. She wouldn't do that either,' Aguri thinks. And the pit in her stomach only deepens. Her mouth goes dry.)

"W-when?" she asks. "Why weren't you...-? Shouldn't you have seen that?"

It's an accusatory question, but she already has the answer. She hadn't let Karasuma into the room. Of course he couldn't have seen what they were doing!

"Where do you- do you think they are? Are you sure they're not around? And are you- are you sure you're not involved? That's not- they wouldn't just-... oh god-"

"I know," Karasuma replies. "I'm distressed as well. But yes: I'm certain. They are not here. And no : I was not 'involved.'" His voice sounds on edge for just a split second… although it quickly peters off. "As for where they've gone… I may have some idea, but I'm really going to need you two to come back here firs-"

"You have an idea!?" Aguri gasps. "Then- then there's no time to waste! Just tell me!"

Karasuma's quiet for a long moment.

"They… left me a note implying that they were going to rescue Irina from the clutches of a man named 'Reaper.' Do with that what you will."

Aguri's heart stops. Irina's in danger? And what do they… do they mean by Reaper? They already know that-

Something is seriously wrong here!

"Just get the octopus. And get back here as soon as possible. I'm working on tracking their location now. But we have to hurry."

"Understood," Aguri stutters, whipping around. "I'll get back to you as soon as possible. And- th- thank you for letting me know."

With that she hangs up. She feels like there's more to say- but Karasuma's right: there's no time to waste. Her legs feeling ready to collapse out from under her, she rushes back into the stadium… making no effort to hide her powers.

"Korosensei!" She shouts, barreling into his side. "We've got to go! Now! There's an emergency!"

He stares at her- confused. Though as he processes her words, that confusion quickly grows into worry. Panic.

"An emergency!?" He asks. "What's wrong?"

"The- the students-" Aguri stammers. "They disappeared. Karasuma came in to check on them and… and…" she struggles for breath. "Someone pretending to be you took Irina! They went to rescue her alone!"

Korosensei's face goes pale. Bolting to his feet, he says "I see. In that case let's head out. We must act immediately."

Aguri nods. Rushing out of the stadium she takes his hand and bolts off into the sky. They hurry back towards the school- no time to waste as the sense of dread only grows.

'Who… who could it be?' she thinks, wind whipping at her face. 'Who could do a thing like this? And is Irina seriously in danger? Oh god.'

There's only three options. Either it is Karasuma… and he lied to her, it's Yanagisawa, or it's the boy. She can't decide which one is worse. They're the only three people who could possibly know about him. But what are they planning? And who could cause the most harm!?

(The thought of seeing Yanagisawa's face again makes her want to shriek. But Korosensei's apprentice… he doesn't have anything to lose. And Karasuma… she hardly knows who he is!)

They crash land in front of the school. Leaving a crater in the ground, they rush to meet Karasuma where he waits outside. His face is pale. Little beads of sweat drip down his face.

It's a way she's never seen him. Her and Karasuma lock eyes for a split second, but he quickly averts his gaze.

"What's the situation?" Korosensei demands. "You said a person named 'Reaper' was involved?"

"Someone claiming to go by the name," Karasuma clarifies. "They didn't leave directions… and Ritsu's GPS is shut off, but if my suspicions are correct then they're headed towards a sewage system on Jaakuna Musuko street. We've received reports of strange activity around there… and we haven't been able to get in contact with the employees. Can you scope it out? See if we're on the right track?"

Korosensei nods. "Of course," he says. "I'll be back momentarily."

And with that, he's off. He leaves Karasuma and Aguri alone. In any other situation she'd be frightened… and in some ways she still expects him to jump. But her limbs are too heavy to do much, and thankfully Karasuma doesn't move, either.

Instead, simply wiping at his brow, he whips out his phone and types something else down. Aguri shoots him a glance, hoping to see… but it's no use. He closes it back up and returns to shifting on his feet.

Shortly after, Korosensei returns. A serious look on his face, he says "I believe you are right. Their smell is all over the area. And although I did not want to enter without backup… I saw footprints."

Face paling, Karasuma nods.

"Let's head out, then. There's no time to waste. Are you prepared?"

"More or less," Korosensei reponds. "Although I am a bit worried about being recognized. Whoever this is clearly knows me. And I'd hate to get caught. Good news is, though… I brought a disguise. And I have a feeling it will serve us well in our upcoming expedition."

"Disguise?" Aguri asks, confused.

"Yes. Of the most insidious nature. And you are going to love it."


"You're insane!"

"I am not," Korosensei replies, his voice a huff. "I am a genius, and this is amazing."

"No. It's not," Karasuma says, point-blank. "This is ridiculous. You are aware the students are on the line, yes?"

"Yes, I'm aware," Korosensei responds. "However, I am taking careful precautions to make sure that they're safe. I can rescue them and wear my disguise. Those goals don't contradict. And besides… I have a feeling that they're not their captor's true target, anyways. His goal is to lure me."

"I'm aware," Karasuma responds, clicking his gun. "But all the same…"

A long pause.

"Did you really need to wear something like that!?"

Where Karasuma's brought himself equipped with a gun, GPS, and other such useful supplies… Korosensei only has the clothes off his back. And today those clothes just happen to be a giant, oversized dog costume.

"Yes!" He replies, his voice a squeak. "Look! I've been looking for an excuse to wear it, alright!? And this is the perfect opportunity! If someone's looking to find me then they won't do it here- no siree!"

"It's barely a disguise!" Karasuma shouts. "It's- it's not like he's not going to recognize you! You're far too distinct!"

"Maybe so!" Korosensei huffs. "But who's the master assassin here? Not you. I know what I'm doing." Aguri lets out a sigh. Usually she'd think it's cute… but just this once she agrees with Karasuma. It's a little much. Then again, though, what does she know? Korosensei is right. He's the master of disguise here. And if he wants to rescue their students in a… a… glorified fursuit, then who is she to stop him?

(Gah! Who does she think he is!? Judging his fashion choices!?)

"If it truly bothers you that much I'll remove it," Korosensei says as they start to come up on the entrance to the sewer maintenance system. "I'm content in taking it this far in tracking them. But I really thought you had more of a sense of adventure, Karasuma."

"I'd prefer the students aren't rescued by Lassie," Karasuma retorts. "Yes. Take it off."

He investigates the building while Korosensei does as told. His eyes narrow some.

"The door doesn't appear to be trapped, but there's a security camera over there. We're likely being watched. Careful with what you say."

Aguri nods. Korosensei does as well. Although he looks a little sheepish as he asks "And so you mean he saw that?" Motioning at the dog costume.

"Yes. He saw that," Karasuma replies. "Congratulations on digging your own grave."

Korosensei looks embarrassed… but soon regains his composure. He lets out a sigh. "No matter, I suppose. He'll be taken care of soon enough."

Aguri wonders who 'he' is as she follows them into the building and down a long hall. The floor creaks beneath her… and the walls seem to roar. She can hear water dripping from somewhere far away.

'Yanagisawa. Karasuma. The apprentice,' she repeats in her head. Those were the three options she laid out, right? The three people who knew Reaper existed. But who could it possibly be?

She has a feeling as she glances Korosensei's way. And she's not sure whether to be relieved or sad. He hangs his head low as he walks. Peers over his shoulder.

It's not a motion dictated by fear. It's a motion dictated by something much more emotional. And even if she may not have to face her greatest fear today, something tells her that Korosensei just might. A man going by 'Reaper' is a reminder of one thing if nothing else:

His past.

She reaches out for his hand as he walks... tries to say 'Hey. I'm scared, too. But we're going to make sure the kids are alright, alright? And we'll make sure that you are, too.'

At the end of the hallway rests a tall door. Karasuma forces it open and they step inside. It lets out a long creak before slamming behind them.

And instantly, the room starts to shake. Korosensei asks what's going on, and Karasuma glances down.

"An elevator," he says. "We're descending."

They stand there together for maybe half a minute as the room continues to groan. Eventually it grinds to a halt… and the wall in front of them opens up with a whoosh. It reveals a long damp hallway, and two figures standing in front of them.

Aguri recognizes one.

Irina shivers a bit as she stands with a gun held to the back of her head. Behind her is a strange man… with silver hair and bright eyes. It's hard to make out his face in the dark, but he looks young, somehow. And Aguri's certain she hasn't met him before.

Unconsciously, she lets out a sigh of relief. 'No Yanagisawa. No Karasuma.' she notes. Although her heart just as quickly sinks. Irina's got an indecipherable look on her face… and when she glances Korosensei's way he seems scared.

Why wouldn't he be? This person's-

"Irina!" Karasuma cries. His voice is surprisingly strained.

Irina just briefly glances his way... and Aguri swears she sees the ghost of a smile. It quickly fades, however, as she remembers what's standing behind her.

"Irina," Korosensei repeats. "Don't be afraid. We'll get you out of here as soon as possible."

He's reassuring her. With sweat dripping down his brow and a pale look to his face he whispers words of comfort. Aguri wonders if that's a way to divert. After all… he still refuses to look 'Reaper''s way.

Karasuma doesn't. Gaze intense, he asks "And so this is your doing? You're behind this?"

"Sure am!" The man finally responds. It's the first time Aguri's heard him speak. His voice is surprisingly youthful… and there's a sense of playful malice to his tone. "Have you ever heard of The Reaper? God of Death? Shinigami? Surely you have. That would be yours truly. And that's how I was able to set this up."

Aguri feels her lip twitch. All three of them know that that's not true… but they don't dare argue when he's got a gun to Irina's head.

She tries quickly to squash any remaining sympathy she has left. Maybe in any other situation she'd extend it… but now's not the time. The kids are in danger. And even if they weren't, the look behind this person's eyes is sociopathic.

(She tries not to think too hard about why.)

Korosensei lowers his gaze— takes a step back. Karasuma bluffs- keeping his gun held up high.

"Of course I've heard of you," he replies. "Lorvo mentioned you. You're the uncontested best, right?"

"Indeed," 'Reaper' replies with a laugh. "And that's why I left him alive. Word can go a long, long way, you know."

Karasuma's brow furrows. Looking skeptical, he whispers "You've met him?"

"Of course I have!" 'Reaper' says, grinning. "Though it wasn't exactly a friendly encounter. Last I checked he was in pretty poor condition."

Aguri frowns. Lorvo? That's… Irina's mentor, right? Is that why it's been impossible to get in contact with him lately?

(Does he even know where Irina is!?)

"And so will your friend here if you don't lower that gun," 'Reaper' continues… voice a purr. "Put it down before I have to paint the walls with her blood."

Karasuma hesitates. Hands shaking- he stands strong. And Aguri feels her breath hitch. But just as soon he relents. Letting out a slow, deep exhale, he lowers the gun to his feet. Stares.

And 'Reaper' gives a satisfied smile.

He brings the gun down across Irina's head— bats her with the back of it. She collapses low to the ground, letting out a gasp.

"She's got an explosive wrapped 'round her neck," he explains. "The children do as well. If any of you three try anything funny then you know what happens." He opens his palm. Laughs. "That's it. Kaboom!"

Aguri stomach drops. Hands shaking… eyes wide, she thinks 'Kaboom?'

No. No. No way. Not…- that can't seriously be- that's not happening to Irina! And… and it's not happening to the students, either. Not to…-

Okuda. Itona. Akari.

Does each and every one of them seriously have an explosive strapped to them? She… she doesn't know what to do- where to start! She can't lose them now!

"I see," Korosensei says. "...And so you think that if our students are threatened we'll die quietly."

He reaches a hand out. Places it on Aguri's shoulder.

"Well… I'm not certain," Reaper replies. "Honestly, I didn't even know there was a 'we.' I thought there was only one of you things. I'm flying a bit by the seat of my pants here. But, yes. I'm pretty sure that it'll work. And even if it doesn't… I just had to find out."

His voice is venomous, but his expression doesn't change. It's the same calm smile throughout all of his words, and it's an act Aguri's seen before. He really is his master's apprentice, isn't he?

'Okay,' she thinks. 'He doesn't know about you. That's a plus. You can use this to your advantage. You can…-"

Bang.

They don't even get a second to think. A gunshot rings out and the next thing she knows Korosensei is shrieking. He reaches out for his foot- eyes wide.

She rushes to his side. And all at once the ground begins to open up from underneath them. They go tumbling- eyes wide.

'Who?' Aguri thinks. She was just looking at Reaper. He didn't move- not an inch! And that means…-

Her gaze flickers to the left. And there it is- the smoking gun. With Karasuma beside her, Irina holds up the pistol.

...And her friends go plummeting.

Korosensei tries to fight back. Reaching out for the edge, he attempts to hoist himself back up onto land. But it's no use. The gunshots continue to ring out. And to her surprise, Aguri doesn't even try.

She simply lets herself fall… and crash lands on the ground below.

Korosensei follows soon after. Shouting, he smacks down against the concrete. The kids let out a cry, clearly panicked… and the ceiling slams above them.

'The kids,' Aguri thinks, bolting to her feet. 'They're here? Oh thank god.' But that means they're still in danger. And that means she should…-

Headcount. Do a headcount.

'Karma, Isogai, Okajima, Okano,' she recites… just like her first day out of the lab. Her thoughts race at a million miles a minute, but she manages to spot them. Karma's got his back against the wall, and Okajima is sitting down on the ground. 'Okuda. Kataoka. Akari.'

Her sister. Oh thank god her sister's alright. But she's… not all she has to focus on. And that means.

'Kanzaki. Kimura. Kurahashi,' and the rest of them through Yoshida. Then, of course, Itona, too.

...Everyone is here.

She feels all tension drain from her body. She knows now's not the time- but she's just so relieved. For a second there she was really scared that… that-

"Oh my gosh! Are you all okay!?"

And in an instant she's at Akari's side. Checking her all over, she asks. "Were you hurt? Don't tell me he tried anything."

"We're fine," Akari reassures. "We faced off against each other a bit, but he didn't manage to harm anyone seriously." A pause. "I'm more worried about you. What happened up there? I just heard Korosensei scream and then-"

"...Irina," Korosensei says, finally sitting up. "It seems she's betrayed us."

Aguri's the only one who stares.

"Yeah," Maehara says. "We'd figured as much."

"...She lured us into a trap," Okuda murmurs. "Why?"

And Aguri's heart rings in her ears. 'No,' she thinks. 'That can't be right. Sure, she's mad at Korosensei and Karasuma and I, but… she wouldn't hurt the students, would she? She wouldn't try and get them killed.'

Her gaze drifts back down to Akari's neck. There, sure enough, is an explosive device. It lets out a low beep.

"Man," 'Reaper' says, letting out a laugh. "That was way easier than I expected. And here I was expecting you to actually put up a fight."

Aguri hears footsteps… his voice coming closer. She can't make him out yet, but figures he must be descending a set of stairs.

Korosensei stands- well aware there's no time to waste. He presses a finger to the bar of their makeshift cage… wilts when it melts.

"And so it seems the bars are made of Anti-sensei material," he exclaims. "A pity. Although I only should have expected as much."

His gaze flits Aguri's way… and she understands immediately what he's saying. They… can use this, right? If he didn't know she existed, then they can use this to their advantage.

"Now, now," a voice coos as Reaper finally makes himself seen. He steps out of a stairwell… shaking his head. "Let's not be trying anything funny, alright? You don't want those kids to explode."

Korosensei retreats his hand. Then, just for good measure, takes a step back.

Irina and Karasuma are standing behind Reaper. Irina's still holding her gun… and Karasuma is, too- although it's held low to the ground. Aguri feels her heart skip a beat. Is he working with them? Or is he just too scared to move?

It's impossible to tell. She can't make out his expression from here- and even if she could, it's not like she'd be able to decipher it.

Reaper steps forward. Hands in his pockets, he says, "Guess it's time I should explain, then. It's not like you've got too long before you've all drowned."

"W… what?" Aguri repeats, hearing the students sputter behind her. "What did you say?"

"We're in a drainage canal," Reaper says, motioning around. "And I've hijacked it. All I've gotta do is send a signal to that little room over that and all of the water stored up will come gushing out: Crushing you."

Aguri lets out a gasp.

He can't seriously mean-

"With the kids inside?"

Karasuma beats her to it. Storming over to Reaper's side, he places a firm hand on his shoulder and demands explanation.

Reaper removes it, smiling.

"Duh," he says, unphased. "There's no time to waste now. You wouldn't want to risk those two escaping, would you?"

"N… no," Karasuma admits, letting out a half-grunt, half-gasp.

He looks like a deer in the headlights standing there. And Aguri feels her stomach do flips. Dying here- in this horrible lonely place is one thing- but allowing her sister to die, too!? She can't even fathom it! No! No! There's got to be something they can do-

Why does Karasuma look so helpless?

He turns slowly… an unreadable expression on his face as he looks back at Irina. Voice low, he asks "Did you know about this?"

Her expression falters for just a split second, but she shrugs... nods.

"Of course I did," she says. "Why? Are you surprised?" She takes a step closer. Laughs. "I'm an assassin, remember? And you're the one who asked for 'professional.' It's about time I start getting results. The octopi need to die. And if the brats die with them… then so be it."

The students let out a gasp. Whispering, "No," they murmur amongst themselves. "This can't be right. She wouldn't really…-"

Would she?

Aguri stares.

"I'm well aware this may seem harsh," Reaper drawls, one hand on his side. "But I'm sure you understand. We've got to save the world, after all. And you wouldn't want us to mess that up, would you?"

"N… no," Karasuma repeats, his face pale as a sheet. "But-"

"But what?" Reaper asks. "Those children are more important than the fate of the world? There's no way a member of the ministry could agree to that."

Karasuma falls silent… and Aguri's gaze drifts to Irina. Panic gripping at her heart, she cries out "You can't seriously let that happen! Those kids love you, Irina! You wouldn't— you wouldn't kill them, would you!?"

"I'm afraid I would," Irina says, turning. "...I'll do what needs to be done."

No. No No. This isn't the Irina she knows... the woman who tried on dumb T-shirts with her. This is… this is-

"You're better than that!"

It's a desperate plea.

Irina's lip twitches slightly, but she doesn't look any more impressed.

"I'm flattered you think so," she says. "But you're wrong. I told you from the start that I don't do this whole 'friend' thing… and I don't do this whole 'teacher' thing, either. Did you seriously think things could just keep going on as they were?"

"W… well…-" Aguri peters off. "Maybe not exactly, but-"

"You'd have to be pretty damn naive to think that either of us could ever live lives in the light. We were pretending for a bit, and maybe we even got caught up in it… but that sort of thing was never meant for us. Playing friends… playing teacher. What a joke! You're a scapegoat and I'm a slut. We couldn't live happy lives even if we tried." Her words drip with venom. Her voice is a growl. "We were always meant to stay down here. In the dark. And alone, at that." She turns fully. Shows Aguri her back. "It's how we've always been. And it's how we'll always be."

'N… no-' Aguri wants to insist, but her mouth feels dry. Irina's words are the most authentic she's ever heard her… and despite herself, the insults make her reel back.

'That's… that's not really how Irina thinks about me, is it?' She asks. And even more pressingly: 'That's not how Irina thinks about herself, right?' She can't even bear the thought. It stings a lot to hear those words from Irina just as she was finally starting to do better… but it stings even more to hear Irina direct those words towards herself. Irina is someone Aguri believes in. She always has!

And to hear her call herself a… a slut- hopeless… she can't even imagine how miserable that has to be.

"...Th… that's not true-" she finally sputters.

"Isn't it, though?"

"No!"

"You're telling me you have hope for your future, then?" Irina asks, motioning backwards. "Hope for that? Don't even lie to yourself."

"I… I…-"

"Uh-uh-uh!" Reaper interjects. "It's not your decision to make, anyways. It's all up to him," he says, motioning to Karasuma. "And something tells me we all know what choice he'll make."

...Aguri's gaze drifts his way. Karasuma. Karasuma. The one who did this to Irina in the first place. The decision rests on his shoulders? No… no... no!

There's no way he'll crack. He's going to let them die here! She can make it out in his blank expression- his too-callous eyes. He's going to stand by. He's going to let this happen. And even if he's not technically on Reaper or Irina's side… my god! He may as well be!

He turns slowly… and her heart pounds in her ears. She presses herself in closer to the bars, and she's just about to shout 'No! Hey wait! We'll kill ourselves! Please just don't hurt them!' When he speaks up.

"You want my choice?" he says, jaw tense. "...Okay then: here's the government's official stance."

And in an instant, he's on Reaper.

Fist swinging, he strikes him in the face. Reaper goes stumbling back, and all the kids let out a cheer.

"I want to save the world as much as you do," Karasuma clarifies. "But the lives of children come before something so abstract. If you're planning to use them as collateral then I'm shutting this operation down. No ifs or buts about it."

"That's our Karasuma-sensei!" She hears Okano stage whisper.

"I knew he'd come through!"

"He's so cool!"

And Aguri glances back. The kids seem confident. Even Korosensei seems unphased when she looks his way. It gives her pause- makes her wonder.

Is she really the only person surprised by this?

...Maybe she's been misinterpreting Karasuma all along.

He strikes at Reaper once- twice… and Reaper stumbles back. Karasuma looks at Irina, unphased… as he removes his suit jacket, and says "You're right. I did ask you for professionalism. But you're forgetting one thing. A true professional gives a damn about the greater good. And this is not it."

He tosses his suit to the side and turns around to face Reaper. The man gives him an impressed look, patting his face as he lets out a startled laugh.

"Man!" He says, grinning. "You've got way more balls than I thought! That hurt! Gonna take way more to take me out, though, buddy. 'Fraid I'm not putting up with this. And with that…" He turns around. Bolts. "Adios! I'm out of here!"

"Oi!" Karasuma says. "Get back here!"

He doesn't waste a moment. Scrambling after Reaper, he climbs a ladder and slams the door behind him.

"Wait!" Korosensei cries, holding out a hand. "Karasuma-sensei! At least turn on your transceiver! We've got to be able to get in contact with you!"

It's too late. Karasuma's already gone. And as gunshots echo down the hallway Aguri feels a shiver run down her spine.

This is…- it's too much to possibly even take in! Irina's heartbroken expression and her utter betrayal… the danger that the kids are in- the appearance of Korosensei's apprentice! She wants to stumble back- collapse… but she can't possibly now. She's got to keep her head on her shoulders- make sure that everyone is safe.

"I… uh-" she takes a step towards the bars. Irina lets out a bitter laugh.

"Idiot," she says, removing the bomb from around her neck. "What does he think that he's doing? He goes on and on about 'professionalism,' but he doesn't have a damn clue." She twirls it on her finger. Shakes her head. "He hasn't even been able to trap the octopi up until now. And look at what Reaper did in a single day."

"Irina," Korosensei insists. "Surely you understand that that's not the real Reaper. He's-"

"I don't give a damn what he is," Irina replies, voice curt. "Impostor or not, he's still going to help me get what I need."

"And that is?"

"My head back on my shoulders."

She turns. Snorts. "Now then... enough talking. Seems I'm getting a call. And mmm? What's this?" She gives a smile. "Oh! I'm needed elsewhere. I'll see you when the brick is dead."

"Wait!" A few of the kids cry out, but it's no use. Irina follows after Reaper and Karasuma… a strut to her step as she cocks a gun and goes off to do the unforgivable.

"Oh… oh god," Yada murmurs, covering her face with her hands.

"What are we supposed to do!?"

"We can't just let her kill Karasuma!"

"And who- who is that guy!? Is he really-?"

"Could it be?"

"No way-!"

No-one can dare to say it.

Except Aguri, that is.

"That's your apprentice," she demands. "Isn't it?"

Korosensei pales. Shaking his head, he says "That's far besides the point right now."

"It is though, right!? That's him!"

"Of course it is!" Korosensei answers, covering his face with his hands. "But it's not like there's anything I can do! He's-!"

"Talk to him!" Aguri begs. "Please! You've got to be able to reason with him! M- make him stop!"

"I'd love to!" Korosensei responds. "But he's not going to listen to me! If I tell him who I am right now he'll only get more violent! I can't risk that happening- not with the kids around!"

"And so you're just- you're just placing this responsibility on Karasuma's shoulders? You heard Irina! She said that she's going to kill him!"

"We've got to try and have some faith! He's Karasuma! He'll be fine."

He says that, but an explosion rings out. Then another. The sound of gunshots. Aguri's knees feel weak. Sure, she hates Karasuma- but she'd never wish this on him. And what about… oh god! What about the kids!?

If Karasuma dies here then no-one is going to be able to rescue them! They'll die here! She can't let that happen! There has to be- there has to be something that she can do!

She takes a closer look at the bars. She can touch them without pain- but they're far too narrow to fit through. If she tries she'll be sliced. And it's not like she can dig, either. The ground is solid concrete. There's no plowing through that!

'The walls. ' She thinks as another explosion rings out. 'The walls. They look a bit unstable. If I can…-' She doubts she can knock them down by herself… but if she manages to harness some kind of powerful force - then, well... they might just stand a chance!

Her gaze flits towards Akari's collar. Itona's and Okuda's. If they can just manage to get those off… then…-

It's an ancient sewer system! They can blow the whole operation up!

Okay. Okay. That's one part of the plan. Now she just has to figure out how to… actually get those…- gosh! She has to think fast!

Korosensei is slapping his walkie talkie. Shaking it back and forth he shouts "Karasuma! Karasuma! Can you hear me!?"

That's when another explosion rings out.

It's the biggest one yet. And they hear something collapsing far away. The students let out a gasp… and a few flinch back. The whole room seems to shake.

"What was that!?" Mimura asks, eyes wide.

"That was the biggest one yet!"

"Do you think anyone was hurt!?"

"Karasuma!" Korosensei repeats. "Can you hear me!? The students are worried about you! Just let me know if you're okay!"

And finally the other line lets out a buzz. Gasping, Karasuma says "I'm fine. He just destroyed the room. Irina seems to be trapped, however. She got caught under the rubble."

Aguri lets out a gasp. The students seem to freeze up as well. Voice quivering, Korosensei asks "What do you mean?"

"I don't have time to dig her out," Karasuma explains. "He's going to get away. If I can come back for her later I will. But I'm afraid that… that…-"

He drifts off.

"Well, that she'll have to pull through for now."

Aguri feels her blood boil. She knows that Irina messed up just as much as anyone else… but the thought of Karasuma leaving her here to die- it makes her sick! It wasn't a desire to hurt the kids that led Irina to do what she did- not really! It was self-loathing! Aguri knows that kind of behavior! And she did this because she was hurting. Because Karasuma hurt her!

Is he really going to abandon her now?

She should have seen this coming. Should have known this was her fate. But all the same… it makes her heart ache, and she thinks that if Karasuma leaves Irina now then she'll really never forgive him, regardless of what he does next.

...Kurahashi speaks up before Aguri can get the chance.

"You're saying it's too late!?" She demands. "That you're really going to leave her there!? You can't be serious!"

"Listen, Kurahashi," Karasuma replies, voice serious. "You have to understand. Irina knew what she was getting into when she partnered with the Reaper. In her line of work a professional knows the risks involved. And she knew what she was doing. I can't step aside and help her now. Not at the risk of all of your safety."

"Some pro that makes you!" Kurahashi replies, sounding close to tears. "Isn't this a risk worth taking? I know you're not going to take my opinion seriously… I know I'm just a kid, but isn't she basically just a kid, too? She's only twenty-one. And her life was a nightmare."

"She didn't… she didn't get all the pieces to make the right decisions like you did," she continues, batting at her eyes. "But that's not her fault. You've got to help her! Please! Don't you dare leave her behind!"

"Yeah!" Yada joins in, not budging a bit. "You forgive us when we screw up. What's the difference with her!? Doesn't she deserve a second chance, too?"

"She's a part of the class!"

Karasuma drifts off… falling quiet. And for a tantalizing moment the room is silent. At least until Aguri leaps forward- ripping the walkie talkie from Korosensei's hand.

"Do you really need them to tell you this!?" She cries, utterly distraught. "They're just kids! Why is it that they're capable of having more empathy and a better understanding of this than you are!? You shouldn't need to be told what the right thing to do is- you know! You know you should save her!"

"She's depending on you! She saw something in you! That's why she fell in love with you! And there has to be something there. I won't believe she's entirely wrong. I can't do that to her!"

"I've spent all year convincing myself you're some heartless monster," she continues, her grip so tight her fingers ache. "That- that you're just like that other person I know! But you're not, are you!? You want to protect the kids just as much as I do! And you want to protect Irina too! I know you do!"

"You've just… you've convinced yourself that this fate is inevitable for her! That this was always going to happen! But that's not true! It doesn't have to be this way! She can still have a future!"

"And yeah, her time with you might be temporary, but what isn't? Who cares if it's temporary! I'm sure you've enjoyed it too! Do you really want that to come to an end now? Temporary is beautiful! Life is temporary! Temporary is all we have! But her life doesn't have to be over! Not yet! "

"There's something you can do! And so please- Karasuma… I'm begging you! Help her out just this once!"

She drifts off… chokes on a sob. "If that's all you'll ever do for me then I'll be content. But I won't let you back down. Not now. Not if my life depends on it. "

She's not sure she can say that she knows Karasuma can do better. She doesn't. But there's one thing she does know, and that's that Irina deserves better. And if he's the only person who can give it to her then she'll fucking make him!

He doesn't have to love her. He doesn't have to want to be around her at all. But he owes her respect- and more importantly he owes her to realize just how culpable he was in all of this.

Karasuma's quiet. And for a moment, Aguri's afraid she'll have to plead more. But finally she hears a grunting sound on the other end… and he says in a tone she's never heard from him before:

"Fine. I'll do it."

And with that, he's off.

At least… she thinks. Karasuma and Irina are a world away right now. All she can do is imagine what's happening. But as she tries her best to close her eyes- put her faith in him, Korosensei puts his hand on her shoulder.

"It's not time to relax yet," he says. "We've still got our fair share of work to do, too."

Akari nods. "Korosensei's right. While Karasuma's taking care of that we need to focus on getting these things off."

She points at her collar.

"Right," Aguri says, letting out a deep, sputtery breath.

There's no resting yet.

"I believe I might have a way," Itona says, raising a hand. "I've been fiddling with my collar and noticed that it's unlocking apparatus is an entirely separate mechanism from the one that should set off the bombs. If we're careful we can remove them with no detonation happening at all."

"Great," Terasaka says. "But with what tools? You didn't seriously bring a screwdriver along, did you?"

"Who do you take me for?" Itona asks, fumbling for his pocket. "I brought six."

Terasaka lets out a groan.

"And what do we even do once we've gotten them off? He might notice and just flood the place, yeah?"

"That's… where I can help," Sugaya pipes up. "He's got a blind spot in his camera, I think. Not all of us can fit, but... if we step over here," he whips out a paintbrush. "Then I can whip a disguise for you all!"

"A paintbrush!?" Terasaka asks, taken aback. "You're insane! And here I was thinking Itona was crazy."

"Hey! Wait! What!? Yeah!" Takebayashi sputters. "Why'd you bring that along? Did you think you'd have time for paint by numbers!?"

"That doesn't matter! Now get over here and get your collar off before it's too late. Do you want to drown?"

Takebayashi decides not to argue any further. He scurries over to Sugaya's side as Itona gets to work on his collar.

"What are we going to do?" Aguri whispers, looking Korosensei's way. "We don't have any high-tech military clothes. Are we going to pretend to still be trapped in here?"

Sugaya shoots her a glance.

"Eh," he says. "I can probably fit in time to paint your clothes, too. Just give me one sec, alright?"

He works with surprising efficiency. Swabbing and swiping with an absolute diligence, he's already halfway done with Takebayashi's disguise.

"Oh! Why thank you, Sugaya," Korosensei says, giving a bow. "That's most kind of you."

"Hey now," Sugaya retorts. "I only offered to paint her clothes, not yours."

"W- whhaaaaAH!?" Korosensei shouts. "Why!?"

"I'm on a bit of a time crunch here. You don't want us getting caught, do you?"

"Of course not! But what am I supposed to do then?"

Sugaya strokes his chin. "You've got perfectly good natural camouflage, don't you? Your clothes. Take 'em off."

"Absolutely not!" Korosensei cries, eyes wide.

"Why not?" Maehara replies. "You've had no issue with being a weird needy pervert before."

"It's in no way a perverted thing!" Korosensei insists. "I simply…- I'd prefer not to- Miss Yukimura also has camouflage! Why doesn't she have to do this instead!?"

"Because she's a lady!"

"Are you really trying to dissent the 'pervert' comment with that!?"

"Yeah! Show a little self respect! We all know you want to see her naked, but is now really the time!?"

Korosensei yelps. "Okay! Okay!" He cries. "I'll comply! Just stop picking on me already, will you!?"

He covers his face with his hands and gets to work. Aguri looks away. As much as she thinks that she'd like to see him naked, too, now's not the time.

He lets out a whine, pressing himself back against the wall.

"No-one look. The sanctity of my future marriage is tarnished!"

"No-one's interested in looking, you damn octopus. Calm down."

Aguri decides not to dispute that. Something tells her it wouldn't make him feel much better, anyways.

In no time at all, their work is done. Having successfully camouflaged all of the class, Sugaya steps into the camera's blind spot and gives a thumbs up. Aguri would give him one back, but is a little too focused on keeping up her own (fully clothed, thank you very much) camouflage to even try. Instead, she simply smiles at him and says "Good work."

Itona removes the last collar from around Sugino's neck, and places it gingerly on the floor. Aguri almost forgets about her plan in all of the chaos, but is reminded as she hears them start to beep.

"Itona," she says. "Pile them near the wall. Quick. I have an idea!"

"Over here?" Itona asks, pointing to bars.

"Yeah. Right in the corner. Just trust me on this, alright?"

Itona nods. And no too soon. The minute he's placed the collars down and returned to the rest of the class's side, a deafening explosion rings out.

Aguri flinches. But as the smoke billows and the kids turn around… she hears them let out a cheer.

"It worked!" They say.

"Wait. Really-?"

"You blew a hole in the wall!"

Aguri stares. Sure enough, the blast left an opening in the wall. It's not huge- but she figures she and the kids can squeeze through it if they crawl. And that means that… that…-

They're safe!

...Well, not yet. Not entirely. But they are a bit closer. And that means that she can finally step in.

No more waiting- worrying about Karasuma doing this. She can head out herself. She can talk down the Reaper. And most importantly, she can make sure that Irina's alright.

Korosensei must notice her take a step towards the wall, because he places a hand on her shoulder.

Already fully clothed somehow, he says "That was quick thinking. But hold up for a second there, alright? You're not seriously planning on leaving, are you?"

"Of course I am," she replies. "Why wouldn't I? This place is…- it's dangerous!"

"As is my apprentice," Korosensei replies, unmoved. "I understand that you're afraid, but the truth is we may be in more danger out there than we are in here. We don't need to take that risk. Let's keep this as a backup plan. If the canal starts to flood, we're out."

Aguri's gaze flits towards the hole. Mouth agape, she asks "But what about…-?"

"Karasuma? Irina?" Korosensei asks, squeezing her shoulder. "I'm sure they'll be fine. Please: try to have faith in Karasuma. He didn't sound ingenuine when he replied earlier, did he?"

"No," Aguri admits, but her mind still wanders. What if… what if something bad happens? What if even if Karasuma tries to protect Irina he can't? And even more unfathomable- what if he can't protect himself? Are they just supposed to stand around and wait then?

She gets what Korosensei's saying. She really does. She doesn't want the kids heading down there especially. But as she stands there- her knees continuing to shake- the dread builds up… and it explodes when she hears a splash down the hall.

She can't wait a second more. She darts towards the opening, pulling herself through with a shout.

"What are you doing!?" Korosensei cries.

"I'm sorry! I have to go! I can't just sit around while they're potentially hurt!"

She's the invincible one here. She needs to step in. And besides… even if Karasuma is at fault for this, she is too. She shouldn't have let the kids peer pressure him into asking her out. And she shouldn't have let Irina fall in love with this man at all.

She needs to take accountability, too!

"I'll be right back!" She says. "Just stay here with the kids! I'll be fine!"

"But-!"

"No! There's no time to waste! Get them out of the canal if it starts to flood. Otherwise, stay put!"

And he doesn't get the chance to argue. She's already off. Following the sounds of shouting and a crash- she plunges into the unfamiliar darkness- desperate to help out in any way she can.

She arrives in a cavernous room. In the very center stands a pit… and from it echoes voices.

Just barely out of the corner of her vision she makes out Irina. She's leaning against a pillar, her arm in a makeshift splint.

"Irina!" she cries, rushing to her side. "Are you alright!?"

"I'm fine," Irina says, wincing a bit. "It's the brick wall you should be more worried about."

Aguri's gaze flits back and forth. Panicked, she asks "Where is he!?"

"Down there," Irina replies. She points into the pit. "He jumped down there with him."

'Jumped?' Aguri thinks, heart skipping a beat. Maybe it's just the darkness, but she can't even make out the bottom of that place. Did he seriously go nosediving?

"Is he- is he still alive!?"

"Of course he's alive," Irina replies. "Can't you hear them? It's going to take a bit more to take that guy out." She frowns. "Either way though, I'm worried. He doesn't know half the tricks this guy's got up his sleeve. And if he's not careful, well…" she flinches. "This could actually end really badly."

A look of guilt crosses her face… and for a second all Aguri wants to do is comfort her. But she straightens herself up- turns. Now's not the time.

"What are you doing?" Irina asks as she takes a step towards the hole.

Aguri hesitates. More than anything, she's tempted to just stay here… stay with Irina and the students and make sure they're alright. But she can't do that. Regardless of how much she hates Karasuma, she can't leave him to fight this battle alone. If she did and something terrible really did happen then she'd never forgive herself. She has to step forward.

"What does it look like?" she says. "I'm going to help."

"Are you stupid!?"

"I'm invincible," she insists. "I'll be fine. And besides…"

If she really does die here, then doing it to protect someone else is a cause worthwhile.

"Do you seriously think he's got this on his own?"

She doesn't wait a second longer. She rushes at the pit, shouting "The students and Korosensei are just back there! Join them, alright!? They'll keep you safe!"

And then… she arrives.

Crashing into the water with a splash, she touches down on the ground below. Karasuma is already in combat with the Reaper… little beads of sweat dripping down his forehead as he parries blows.

He jerks, slightly at her entrance. Still not looking away from the fight, he demands "What are you doing here!? Irina's fine!"

"I know that!" Aguri replies, rushing in to join them. "I'm not here for her right now. I'm here for you!"

Karasuma steps back, foot sliding against the concrete as he attempts to sucker punch his opponent. He lets out a grunt- teeth grit tight.

"What do you mean you're here for me!?" He asks. "I've got this covered!"

"Yeah," Aguri says. "You think so. But you don't have to face everything alone, you know!"

"I'm not facing this alone!"

"Yes. You are!"

Reaper swings his knife, and Aguri darts to block it with her arm seconds before it strikes Karasuma in the shoulder. He jumps back, panting.

The knife clinks harmlessly off of her skin. Sounding a bit startled, Reaper asks "What are you?"

He looks down at his blade, inquisitive.

"I coated all of my weapons in Anti-sensei material before I set out. Did the water wash it off… or?" He drifts off, a sudden shine to his eyes. "No. That's not it. You're special, aren't you?" His eyes gleam. "You're different!"

He lunges forward, giving a roundhouse kick that Aguri just barely manages to dodge out of the way of. He lets out a laugh, in no way slowing down.

"No matter, I suppose! More prey for me!"

It's only then as she makes out the gleam in his eyes that she realizes just what's changed about him since she last saw his face. That is… there is none. Barely noticeable in the dim light at first- and yet unmistakable once she's seen it, his bare muscle glistens in the sewer water. Skeletal, almost- he looks emaciated - flayed.

"He's- he's got no face!" She cries rather abruptly.

"Yeah," Karasuma says. "You didn't notice that sooner!?"

Now that Aguri thinks about it she thinks she remembers Korosensei mentioning something about his apprentice removing his face. But seeing it in person… my god! It's so much worse! It's worse than she can possibly imagine!

"Do you like it?" Reaper asks, grinning. "You'd better, because this'll be the last thing you ever see."

In one swift motion he whips out a blade- no- a wire. Swinging it expertly, he cuts the water… and comes just this close to cutting Karasuma's skin.

Aguri hovers between them- eyes narrowed.

"Cut that out already, will you!?"

"I'm afraid I can't," Reaper replies. "Now step aside. I'll deal with you momentarily."

Before Aguri can even respond he's on the move again. He darts around her side- rushing at Karasuma with another lash of his whip. She doesn't manage to come between them- but Karasuma blocks it with the back of his hand. Blood dripping down his wrist, he asks, unimpressed "Is that all you've got?"

"Oh," Reaper says. "You haven't even seen the half of it."

They rush at each other and re-engage in hand-to-hand combat. Aguri feels her heart race. Is this really all she can do? Block? Is that even helpful? Or would- would Karasuma have been fine on his own?

Another blade whips through the air. And even more pressingly, she thinks 'will he be unfine even with me here?'

No. She won't allow it. Before she even realizes what she's doing she rushes at him. She bodies the Reaper, knocking him to the ground with a crash. He goes tumbling, but skids back to his feet.

Letting out a growl, Karasuma tries to use the opportunity to pin him. But it's no use. Even with Aguri's help, the assassin is simply too strong. He kicks at Karasuma- before elbowing him off, and bouncing back to his feet.

Karasuma tries to trip him again- as does Aguri. But it's no use. He's not falling for it a second time.

It's incredible how agile he is. Even trying to utilize her superspeed, she can't keep up with him. She knows she's not exactly experienced in this kind of thing- but Karasuma is, and even he's getting a run for his money.

She can't imagine fighting two people at once. Much less a trained military man and a human experiment.

The fake Reaper knows what he's doing.

Of course, her and Karasuma aren't going to give up yet. Karasuma sends a sharp kick towards Reaper's shoulder and she dodges out of the way of an uppercut. She tries to loop back around and grab him, but he flares his whip and darts to the side.

It's simultaneously the most frightening and the most exhausting thing she's ever faced. Her whole body hurts, despite not being hit… and she struggles for breath. Even Karasuma is panting by now.

Of course, Reaper is, too.

Karasuma pulls back. Striking at Reaper each time he attempts to come in, he places some distance between them. The signal is clear. Hand to hand combat isn't going anywhere. Back up.

Aguri does as told. She's still not sure where this is heading, but Karasuma's the one with the experience. The most she can do is help.

Recognizing that he's not going to be able to get in close- at least for now… Reaper backs up as well. He lets out a heavy breath… grins.

"You're not half bad at this, you know," he admits. "Of course… this is hardly a fair fight, but it might just be the most fun I've had in a while. I love the thrill of the kill." He grins. Cracks his knuckles. That's why I got into this, you know."

He stretches. Takes another step back.

"Not sure if you heard, but I gave some tragic, heart-rending backstory to the femme fatale… all about how I was raised in the slums and forced into assassination by my circumstances. That was all a lie, of course, but it was still pretty fun to see the look on her face when she realized I'd duped her."

"The real reason I got into assassination was because an assassin killed my father. I watched him swing the blade and couldn't help but think 'this is beautiful.' It was an art. I wanted to become a person just like that."

Aguri shakes. It's a story she knows. It's a story they all know. Karasuma, Irina, the kids- they've heard that by this point. No one was 'duped!' It's nothing new! And yet… hearing it out of his mouth, she's disturbed. Who wouldn't care that their own father was killed? Who would see that as an art?

'I wanted to become a person just like that.' It's more than clear by now he has. Even without a face, she can make out his expression in the dim light- and it's one she recognizes… the same apathy she saw in the real Reaper all those months ago. A monster's been created here. Is it too late to stop it? Or - is there still a way to get through to this person?

She's just barely opened her mouth to speak when he whips out a rose.

"I've spent years honing those skills… mastering my craft. And now that you've let your guard down, it's time to see what the Reaper can really do."

He arcs his hand forward and then…

A gunshot.

Aguri's ears ring, and she rushes out to stop it. Head pounding, she realizes that she got so caught up in the moral dilemma of this all that she almost forgot that there was a fight going on. She can't relax now! She's got to protect Karasuma!

It's no use. She's just come between them when Reaper strikes her abruptly. He sends her tumbling to the side, blood and antimatter cascading through the air as she crashes back down onto the ground below.

She lets out a sputtery gasp. Chokes on her breath and struggles for air as she realizes she's been struck.

Karasuma gasps as well.

She hadn't been able to do anything. And now a bullet hole the size of a pinprick has marred his skin.

She tires to struggle to her feet… grits her teeth. She's got to do something before he's hit again. Sure- the injury seems small, but…-

...Wait.

Where did the Reaper shoot from at all?

She's not sure if it's just her head spinning, but suddenly it seems like there's smoke billowing out from his index finger.

"The Reaper's Hidden Scythe," he says with a ghastly sort of grin. "It's a simple 10 calliber pistol. It may seem innocuous, but it's able to do tumultuous damage. You see… with my perfect aim, it's capable of piercing through muscle: leaving a small hole in the aorta. And although this injury starts out relatively minor… each beat of the heart will widen that hole. Worsening and worsening until it finally bursts. A victim will bleed out within minutes. Pretty cunning, huh?"

Karasuma's brow furrows- almost like he doesn't believe him. But sure enough… the injury seems to spread, and one droplet of blood dripping down his chest becomes two. Three. In an instant it's gushing out from his chest… and he collapses to the ground, eyes wide.

"No!" Aguri shrieks, thoughts racing. She has to do something! That's why she came down here, after all, isn't it!? He can't die here!

She rushes at Reaper. But once again it's no use. He elbows her- plowing his fist into her chest. He socks her in the face, and then takes her feet out from under her. She plunges back down to the ground- slamming her chin on the concrete. And hard.

(The water pools with red. She can't tell whose blood it is.)

"Good try," Reaper says, approaching. "Really. But I'm afraid it's not going to work. Invincible-shmincible. Seems I've discovered your weakness, too."

He crouches down… a grin on his face. He yanks her up by her hair and grabs at her chin… forces her to look him right in the eye. His grip is piercing and his gaze is cold.

"Thanks for the fight, really. But it's over now. This is what you get when you try and escape the Reaper. Don't take it too personally. You were as good as dead the moment you arrived."

His hand drifts down towards her throat. With an iron grip he starts to choke her- fingers digging into her neck. Aguri lets out a sputter- attempting to kick back… but it's no use. She's been weakened by the onslaught, and she was never very good at fighting, anyways.

Vision fading in and out… a horrible burning sensation as her skin bursts. Try as she might, she just can't breathe. And she feels a wave of fear overtake her. So badly she wants there to be something she can say- but no words come out. And even if she did have the right answers, could she speak?

Her gaze drifts over to Karasuma. And as she locks eyes with him, her body goes limp.

He's still bleeding. More than before. And yet… he's alert: staring right at her. She knows he can see what's going on… and her heart sinks. She knows he knows she lied to him. Her weakness- it's in the open now. And if that isn't terrifying enough, they're both going to die aware of that.

This is the one way she didn't want to go. That's why she didn't want to tell the government. Feeling Reaper's hand around her throat… it brings her back to a time that she doesn't want to remember. And to think that she thought it would be Karasuma taking her out this way if he learned. What a joke!? They're dying side by side.

'...Dying.'

What a scary phrase.

But that's what's happening, right? Trembling knees... blurry vision? She's felt it before.

She knows when she went into this it felt a little self-sacrificing. 'I've got to make sure that Karasuma and Irina are alright no matter the cost.' But now that she's here facing this thing she's scared. It doesn't feel like it felt like when she was bleeding out in Korosensei's arms. There she'd felt ready. She'd accepted what was happening. But now…-

There's still so much she'd wanted to try. She was supposed to have four months left. She didn't even get to say goodbye to Korosensei or her sister. How are they going to take it? Will they be alright… or?

...Will they break again?

And all for nothing. She hadn't even been able to protect Karasuma. They're both going to die here, and just because she couldn't fight back.

She… thinks she finally gets what he was saying. About temporary. Maybe there is something wrong with getting your hopes up. Especially when saying goodbye happens to hurt this bad.

She shuts her eyes and fights back the tears. Tries to brace herself for what's to come, and-

An impact.

Reaper lets out a cry as something strikes him from behind. At first Aguri thinks it's Korosensei, but as her eyes shoot open she's met with another figure. No. Not Korosensei, and not even Irina, but…-

'Karasuma!?'

He wastes no time. Punching Reaper in the back of the head and then kicking him off of Aguri he shouts, "Hands off the lady!" as he raises his leg, winds it, and strikes Reaper right in the groin.

Reaper goes sliding back with a gasp. Sounding aghast, he whispers "You're alive!?"

"Yeah, I'm alive," Karasuma says, watching him tremble. "And it's nice to know that you seem to have the same weak spot I do, too."

'...H-how!?' Aguri thinks, mind racing. Just a second ago he'd been bleeding out. But now there's not- she can't spot a trace of injury! What!?

She's completely lost. At least until she spots the tentacle… oozing red goo. 'Korosensei' she thinks, eyes wide… and realizes all at once he'd tricked him.

He'd only faked Karasuma's injuries!

Wasting no time, Karasuma uses his newfound vitality. He rushes to Reaper, striking him once more.

"You messed up," he says. "You're a good assassin: I'll give you that. But you're the one who didn't stand a chance the minute you decided to try and harm my colleagues. My students."

"I- I had to!" Reaper gasps. "You can't take me out now! I mean- who else could possibly kill them except me!? Do you want the world to end!?"

"Of course not," Karasuma says. "And it won't. But letting you finish this off?" He snorts. "Yeah: no goddamn way."

He winds his fist up and then brings it down across Reaper's face. He's sent tumbling to the ground, body letting out a horrible 'krrrack' as the water splashes and the sewer falls silent.

Meaning… it's over.

She doesn't know if Reaper's dead or just unconscious, but either way it's done with… they've won. Why is she still shaking so profusely?

Her gaze drifts from Korosensei's tentacle to Karasuma and then back to the tentacle. It continues to spurt 'blood...' little drops of red drip-drip-dripping onto the ground below and painting the clear water crimson.

Karasuma takes deep breaths. Just barely steadying himself, he runs his fingers through his hair and huffs.

For a second there she'd really thought that… that…-

She's not even sure what she's doing when she hugs him. It simply comes over her. She rushes to his side and buries her face in his shoulder... let's out a sob.

"I'm sorry," she says. "I know you probably don't want to be touched right now, much less by me… but…" Another sputtery breath. "I'm just so glad you're alright!"

For a second there she'd really thought they were both going to die. But Karasuma's fine. And… he'd saved her. Why?

(Isn't this what he'd been waiting for?)

He doesn't give her any answers. And she doesn't dare ask. But he does let her stay there hugging him… at least until others approach. And when he confirms he's okay, he asks "Are you?"

Aguri gives a meek nod. "I think so."

She's still scared out of her mind. Her whole body hurts and she knows Karasuma saw what happened. But all the same… she can't even bring herself to care right now. She's just so thankful she's alive.

She pulls away from Karasuma as she hears wet footsteps. Voices grow louder and Korosensei and the others arrive. They rush to her side, demanding to know if everything's alright.

"It sounds like the fight got really intense," Sugino says. "But it's over now, right?"

"Is it true that Karasuma almost got shot?"

"And what about Reaper? Is he...?"

"He's alive," Korosensei reassures, crouching over his body. "Seems he still has a pulse. But all of that is besides the point for now. The students are right. Are you all okay?"

Aguri gives a quiet nod. Her ears are still ringing, but… "I think so. Karasuma stayed on top of things. No-one was seriously hurt."

"You helped out too," Karasuma says. "I don't know what I'd have done if you hadn't distracted him. Things could have gone seriously wrong."

"Mmm," Aguri says, heart sinking a little. And so that's what he calls it? Serving as a distraction? "...And so you saw, then?"

Karasuma's quiet for a second- almost like he's considering asking 'saw what?' But he ultimately decides against it. There's no use in beating around the bush.

"Saw him attacking you?" A pause. "Yes."

Aguri rubs at her arm. Her injuries have already almost healed by now, but the damage is done.

"...Why didn't you tell me about this sooner? You did know, right?"

"Yeah," Aguri says. "I knew. But… I was scared you were going to tell them... the government."

"I still have to tell the government, Yukimura."

Aguri sighs. "Yeah," she says. "I know. But… before you do that can you at least hear me out?" A pause. "I want to talk to you. Make my case. I know it's a lot to ask, but… I'll never forgive myself if I don't at least try and sway you. I don't want to go out that way."

"Go out what way?" Nagisa asks, furrowing his brow.

"I… have a weakness," Aguri admits. "I'm sorry I didn't tell any of you sooner, but… I was afraid of what would happen. I can be hurt- and I probably can be killed. But only in one way." A pause. "Physical violence."

A wave of anxiety seems to wash over the class. And a similar wave of nausea overtakes Aguri. She holds up an arm… smacks it. Hard.

(Blood drips down her skin.)

"Punches. Kicks. That sort of thing."

"...Oh," Okuda says, covering her mouth with her hands. "Like…"

None of them can bear to finish.

"Are you sure it's a good idea to tell all of them this?" Akari asks, stepping close.

"I didn't have much of a choice," Aguri admits. "And either way the cat's out of the bag now."

Karasuma frowns. Staring at her with those same serious eyes, he says "...I'm listening."

"Oh," Aguri says. "I'd like to do it privately if possible. Talk to you, I mean. There's… a lot of personal stuff I need to go over. And besides, before I take care of any of that there's still something I'd like to do here."

She turns slightly.

"Which is?"

"Take care of him," Aguri says, pointing at Reaper. "I know he just endangered all of us… but we know Korosensei's backstory, and he deserves closure. Can me and Korosensei please tell him the truth? Then I'll talk with you?"

Karasuma's quiet. He brings his hand up to his chin.

"Are you sure that's a good idea?" Korosensei says. "It's possible it will only make things worse."

"Yes," Aguri says. "I know that much. But… it's still the right thing to do." She crouches down… reaches out for Reaper's skin. "You've still got to tell him you're sorry."

She wrings it gently in her hands… tries to ignore just how disgusting the sensation is. Gross or not, she thinks he at least deserves some privacy.

She slides it back on over his scalp.

"...I'll… allow it just this once," Karasuma says. "But we're to talk the minute you arrive back from class. And this is not a guarantee no information is coming out to the government. I'd simply like to talk to you. Is this understood?"

"Of course," Aguri replies. "Thank you, Karasuma."

"Speaking of heart to hearts," Okano says, pointing over her shoulder. "One of you might want to deal with her."

It's only then that Aguri notices Irina. She's attempting to tiptoe away… bolt before the class can stop her.

Needless to say, she doesn't get the chance. They rush at her, grabbing her by her arms and legs.

"Hey! Where do you think you're going!?"

"Are you seriously trying to sneak out!?"

"No way, Bitch-sensei! You've still got so much to explain to us!"

Irina lets out a growl, giving a firm tug of her arm. "Goddamn it!" she says. "Interrogating me already!? I'm not afraid of you! Do your very worst! Beat me up for my crimes! Whatever! I don't care!"

"We're not going to beat you up!" Kurahashi replies.

"Yeah. We just want to know if you're coming back to class."

"You scared us when you disappeared like that. We thought you'd been hurt-"

"You thought I'd been hurt?" Irina asks, clearly unimpressed. "I was planning to kill you all. What don't we get about that? Don't tell me you seriously want me back-"

"Of course we want you back, idiot!" Terasaka replies.

"Who among us hasn't tried to kill the class at least once before?" Itona asks.

"It's not like we didn't see it coming," Takeyabashi clarifies. "This sort of thing just comes with the territory of being assassins. We're used to it."

"And what matters is that you turned back to our side," Kurahashi says. "...As long as you don't do it again it's alright."

"You've got to come back. Pretty please?"

Irina frowns. Looking genuinely taken aback, she pauses. She looks over the children… thoughtful, and her eyes even glint with something close to guilt.

Aguri opens her mouth to say something about living in the light. About how it's not too late for her and Irina and how Irina should know that by now. But she doesn't quite get the chance. To her surprise, Karasuma beats her to it.

"The kids are right," he says. "You… should come back." He crouches down. Retrieves something from the water. "Here. Take this. I know it's not much, but I won it in battle. Consider it an apology for everything that went down. For... driving you away. And as a plea for you to return to the school as well." A pause. "The students still need you. The whole class does."

He doesn't say himself. But the truth is the class includes him and Korosensei. And with what he's holding in his hand…

Well, it's close enough.

Irina stares.

"A flower?" she says. "...What happened to-?"

"I meant what I said," Karasuma admits. "About how all of this is going to end sooner or later. But… before that happens I'd like to get the chance to know you. I'd… like to use that as incentive to treasure that time more. I'm sorry I didn't realize that earlier."

Just briefly, he sends a glance towards Aguri… almost as if asking 'is this right?' However his attention soon returns to Irina. And as she gives a wide, teary smile Aguri thinks he's got his answer.

There are still some things she'd like to say, she thinks. About Irina's worldview and what she did. But all of that can wait. It seems Karasuma's got it covered for now, and she is damn thankful for that.

"I… love it," Irina says, shaking her head. "I love it! Why are you apologizing, you damn brick!?"

"I think you know why."

Karasuma still doesn't blush. He doesn't even smile. But he gives her an acknowledging nod, and there is something soft to it. He steps forward.

"...But, yes. Please allow this to serve as persuasion for you. Come back for more experiences like this." Another pause. "I'd like to see you back." A frown. "Not that… I suppose that matters. I'll be going as well, but… I think this could be good for you."

Going?

Right. All at once Aguri remembers what she'd asked.

She'd… told him to leave. And suddenly she regrets it. It's true- she still doesn't understand Karasuma… and she does think he can be genuinely hurtful. But it's clear at this point he's not intending to. And when he does he's at least willing to take a step back and reflect. All he needs is a push.

"Is it- is it too late to change that?"

Karasuma glances her way.

"Pardon?"

"You don't need to go, actually."

She takes a step forward.

"Don't get me wrong… I still think what you did was wrong, and I'm mad that you did it in front of the students. But… you have a much of a right to be here as the rest of us. And if we can deserve a second chance… a life in the light, then... well, you do too. I'm sorry for arguing with you. And I'm sorry for getting so aggressive. It's just… you reminded me of someone, you know? And I didn't want to see you hurt Irina."

"But… you're not going to, are you? At least not anymore than you already have. And if that's the case, then… I think you can stay."

"Are you sure?" Karasuma asks. "I'd… hate for this to be a decision you go back on."

"Yes," Aguri says. "I'm sure. This was never my decision to make. It should have been up to the students. I just acted out of fear. And again…: I'm sorry. I'm still not really sure I understand you, but you've been as patient with me as you can. And… I don't know if any other government agent would have been willing to wait to hear me out. You don't have to leave. Just… do better, alright?"

She's going to be keeping an eye on him: having a long talk and making sure that nothing like this ever happens again. But she thinks by now she gets that he's not abusive. And that's not naivety. After all, sure: Yanagisawa had offered her flowers before, but the one thing he never offered was a genuine apology.

And as far as she can tell from Karasuma, this is it.

"Very well then," Karasuma says. "I'll let my supervisors know that the situation has shifted. Thank you." He scratches at the back of his neck. "Believe it or not, I was actually quite dreading leaving as well."

"Yeah," Aguri says. She gets that. Because sure, these things are temporary, but the last thing any of them need is them being cut even shorter. They've barely got enough time as is.

"Oh thank god," Nakamura says. "You really had us scared for a second, Yukimura-sensei."

"We thought you were seriously kicking him out!"

"But he can stay!" Kurahashi cheers. "Not that it matters much," she hangs her head and lets out a low whimper. "He's taken now. What sort of cruel fate is this?"

"Well, I don't know about taken," Karasuma says, tsking. He shoots another glance towards Irina. "But yes. Something close."

"Try not to take it too hard," Maehara says, patting Kurahashi's back. "You never stood much of a chance, anyways."

"Why!? I'm every bit as cute as she is!"

Aguri decides not to comment on the real reason being that Kurahashi is 15. Something tells her that her lovestruck heart simply couldn't take it.

Thankfully… the tension in the air seems to have released. The water's gone still, and the students chatter amongst themselves as Irina twirls a rose in her fingers. Aguri turns to Karasuma.

"You and Irina should probably take the kids out of here," she instructs. "Like I said, I'd like to talk to him, but the last thing we need is them getting in danger again."

Karasuma nods. Turning around, he says "You heard the lady."

"And you're sure that you really want to do this alone?" Akari asks. "What if he attacks you again?"

"We'll be fine. Something tells me that all of his fighting spirit will be gone once he learns the truth."

"And just in case," Irina says, strutting over. "I'll tie him up. This way he can't go after you, yeah?"

"We're invincible, Irina… but thank you for the help."

"Where did you even get those, anyways?" Mimura asks as she ties Reaper's wrists tight. "Is that wire?"

"He hog-tied me when I was pretending to be kidnapped." A pause. "I agreed to it, of course… but seeing as how he betrayed me I figure it's time that I get some revenge. How do you like being tied up like a piece of meat, asshole!?"

"He can't hear you," Yoshida retorts.

"Is it just me or does this feel a little BDSM-ish?"

"A bitch after my own heart," Karma exclaims. "About time you finally got in on the pranks. Want me to get the pepper out? It's not too late to torture him even more."

"Woah. Woah. Woah!" Aguri says. "We're not torturing anyone. The only reason we're even tying him up is to be careful. Is this understood?"

"Yeah, yeah," Karma says. "I'm just fucking with ya. Go on."

"For the record," Irina huffs. "Never place me on your level again or I'm conspiring to drown you and you specifically next time."

"Let's not," Karasuma pipes up.

Finally, Reaper is properly restrained. Irina stands and stretches.

"I guess that means that we should get out now?"

"Yeah," Aguri says.

"Though I'd like to breach one more topic before you leave," Korosensei admits. "Karasuma: when you do talk with the government make sure to let them know that I don't want to see the kids endangered like this ever again. A tragedy almost took place here… and although I'm glad things turned out fine they came dangerously close. This cannot be allowed to happen again."

"Yes," Karasuma says. "I… agree. I'm already going over what I should tell them." A pause. "Do not worry. The kids will never be placed in danger like this again."

"Wonderful." Korosensei turns back around. "In that case you can get going, yes. Good travels, and I'll see you soon."

Karasuma nods. And with that… he's off. He, Irina, and the students leave. Leaving her and Korosensei with one last person to face.

Her heart's a bit heavy as they disappear. Admittedly she's still afraid of what's going to happen. But… she'll try to have faith in Karasuma. Or at least in the fact that he said he's willing to hear her out. If he wanted her to die in that way, then he'd just have let the Reaper do it. And he didn't.

...Speaking of.

She turns back to the Reaper. That's enough worrying for now. Until further notice she's got something to focus on, and that's making sure that Korosensei handles this right.