Chapter 11: Anarchy: Act One
12:24 P.M Day Six
Resort District
First Floor
Storage Room
The small room reverberated as the raucous sound of music escaped into the hallway. To say the sound was disjointed would be an understatement.
Kanade rested in the back of the room behind a drum kit. Each of her movements were technically flawless, and yet she was consistently behind Naruhiko's tempo.
The Ultimate Mathematician stood awkwardly to the side with a triangle, which she struck every few seconds. It didn't fit with the beat in the slightest.
Sigmund's harmonica skill offered a fresh take on such an upbeat punk song, however his expert skills were being drowned out by the cacophony around him.
Even amongst the chaos Naruhiko's gritty voice still could be heard as he strummed at his guitar wildly before leaning into the mic stand.
"Hey ho, let's go! Hey ho, let's go! Hey ho, let's go! Hey ho, let's go!
They're forming in straight line, they're going through a tight wind
The kids are losing their minds the blitzkrieg bop
They're piling in the back seat they're generating steam heat
Pulsating to the back beat the blitzkrieg bop
Hey ho, let's go shoot'em in the back now what they want, I don't know
They're all reved up and ready to go
They're forming in straight line they're going through a tight wind
The kids are losing their minds the blitzkrieg bop
They're piling in the back seat they're generating steam heat
Pulsating to the back beat the blitzkrieg bop
Hey ho, let's go shoot'em in the back now
What they want, I don't know they're all reved up and ready to go
They're forming in straight line they're going through a tight wind
The kids are losing their minds the blitzkrieg bop
They're piling in the back seat they're generating steam heat
Pulsating to the back beat the blitzkrieg bop
Hey ho, let's go hey ho, let's go
Hey ho, let's go hey ho, let's go!"
A wild grin spread across the musician's face as the song came to a close. "Phew! That was a freaking awesome! How'd everyone feel about that shit?!"
The Ultimate Forensic Investigator sat on the edge of a crate with a huge smile on her face as she frantically clapped her hands together.
"Holy cow that was super cool!" Annabelle squealed.
"Lass, I appreciate you for being so kind, but I was bloody awful. It was certainly a far cry from a siren's song," Kaizoku muttered.
Maddie nodded in agreement as she shifted on her feet. "I-I had no idea what I was doing. I'm not very good at reading music."
The Ultimate Paralympic Athlete offered her an encouraging smile. "Hey, there's no reason to be so hard on yourself. This is what practice is all about. I couldn't hear myself most of the song, but I think that's just because we're in such a cramped space."
Kanade bowed her head slightly as she lowered her drumsticks. "I-I'm so use to performing by myself, I was behind the entire song. My tempo was just terrible. Maybe this was a big mistake, Naruhiko."
"Woah! You all need to take a damn chill pill and listen to my man Sigmund. You can't expect to be the best with just a few days of practice. Honestly, if we go out there and crash tomorrow it doesn't matter. It's all about tearing up the stage and having a good damn time doing it," the Punk musician said. "Any questions?"
The Mathematician peered around the room a moment before meekly raising her hand. "Um would it be possible to get some tutoring this evening after my makeover? I just want to improve our odds of not bombing entirely."
"Hey, I don't mind helping. I think you know well enough how to play the triangle, you just need to learn how to read the sheet music, right?" Sigmund asked.
"Yeah, I'm use to seeing strange symbols, but music doesn't come as easy as math does for me," The girl admitted.
Naruhiko strummed his guitar a few times as he nodded. "Don't you worry 'bout a thing. Sigmeister will handle everything. As for you, Kanade, I'll show up early in the morning tomorrow and we'll practice till you get comfortable. How's that sound?"
The Composer offered a shy nod of her head. "T-Thank you, Naruhiko. I'll continue practicing in the meantime."
"That's what I like to hear. That just leaves you my pirate buddy," the Punk Musician said as he eyed Kaizoku.
The Sailor chuckled quietly. "I've got a long ways to go, matey. I'm not sure I'm ready for tomorrow."
Naruhiko stuck his tongue out. "Where's that shit comin' from? Don't stress out, bro. We'll jam some tonight, and I'll have you singing with that bass."
"Heh. Well, I'll give it my best shot. I wouldn't want to weigh the crew down."
Annabelle was squirming as she inched ever closer. "What about me, boss? What can I do? I wanna be part of the band too!"
"Oh do you now? As it so happens, I've got a special task for you squirt." Naruhiko chuckled.
"Really?! Oh tell me! What am I doing?"
The Punk Musician smirked. "Well, as our manager, you've got the most important job."
1:12 P.M Day Six
Resort District
Fifth Floor
Hotel (Hallway)
Annabelle walked side by side with the Ultimate Mathematician as they exited the elevator. "Hmph! This doesn't seem like the most important job at all. I just feel like I'm running errands."
Maddie adjusted the straps on her backpack. "It may be accurate to say that this is an errand, but everyone seemed to think that having outfits is crucial for our performance. I estimate it might raise morale by quite a high percentage, though I can't be certain of the exact number."
The petite child huffed slightly. "I guess if it helps, then I don't mind too much."
A few seconds passed before the Investigator's demeanor shifted. A tiny smile flitted across her face as she eyed the elder girl. "So are you excited about your makeover? Chloe is like, super pretty, so I bet she'll do an awesome job."
The Mathematician was silent for a few seconds before offering a quiet response."Well, I'm not sure if it'll make that much of a difference. However everyone seems excited about this concert, so I should probably do my best."
"Aww, you should be more confident! I'm sure you'll look like a million bucks for tomorrow!" Annabelle exclaimed.
Before Madison could respond, the door they were approaching flew open.
The Ultimate Fashion Designer peered out into the hallway with a slightly irritated expression. "That bonehead of a man. Let me guess, Naruhiko sent you to collect the outfits for tomorrow?"
The Forensic Investigator offered a triumphant smile. "Yup yup! As his manager, I'm here to collect everything for tomorrow. Maddie is ready for you to work your magic, too!"
Chloe's expression softened ever so slightly. "He's fortunate that I finished early. Were it not for his incessant whining, I would have never wasted the time. I have everything hung on a cart, so you shouldn't have to lug it all around. Just push it to the elevator." The Fashion Designer's gaze fixated on Madison, causing her to visibly flinch. "It seems I have a more pressing job ahead of me now."
"U-Um if now isn't a good time, I could always come back later. I don't want to bother you."
"Nonsense, you're not bothering me," Chloe responded before grasping her hand. "Come now, this might take a while."
"Hehe, don't mind me then. I'll be in and out in a flash."
Annabelle quickly slipped in front of the two girls before heading into the designer's bedroom.
A slightly bemused smirk played upon Chloe's lips. "She's quite excited about being involved in this, isn't she?"
"I don't know where she gets her enthusiasm from," Madison admitted as she was guided through the doorway. "But we all appreciate the help, and thank you for bothering to help me. I'm sure you have better things to do."
"Oh, it seems we do have a lot of work to do on you, but it's not just your appearance. We've got to work on your confidence," Chloe mused.
Maddie blinked. "My confidence?"
"Indeed. But don't you worry; you're in good hands." Chloe gently squeezed the other girl's hand for emphasis before offering a playful wink. "I'm going to take good care of you."
2:35 P.M Day Six
Resort District
Outside
Courtyard
The Ultimate Knight sighed softly as a bead of sweat trickled down her forehead.
The heat was absolutely miserable. It made sparring for long periods draining, especially when she was donning her armor.
Laris took a measured breath as she performed a quick stroke through the air with her sword before sheathing her blade.
As she turned back towards the hotel entrance she saw Tiana standing on the steps holding a glass.
The Ultimate Dominatrix offered the Knight a tiny smile. "I'd seen you out here earlier, I thought with it being so hot you might appreciate something cold."
Laris began to approach Tiana before offering a curt bow. "Thank you, M'lady. I certainly appreciate you doing this."
"You're welcome, but if you truly were appreciative you would be more careful. With this heat you could really hurt yourself. I don't care how well-trained you are, a heat stroke is no laughing matter. It was a daily occurrence in Florida during the summer, so please pace yourself."
Tiana's tone wasn't harsh, but it was firm.
"Forgive me, M'lady, I am not used to summers this brutal. I will be more careful in the future," Laris responded before reaching for a glass of what appeared to be lemonade.
A sigh escaped the voluptuous girl's lips. "There's no need to apologize. I just don't understand why you can't take off your armor if you're going to insist on training in such conditions."
A nervous chuckle escaped Laris as she tentatively took a sip of her beverage. "I'm afraid it is simply custom for a knight to treat their armor like a second skin. I suppose you could consider it like a Hijab that is worn by a Muslim woman. It would just be improper for me to remove it."
The Dominatrix offered a slight frown. She pulled out her crop before very gently popping the Knight on the forehead. "I'm disappointed in you. I do not appreciate dishonesty, Laris."
"D-Dishonesty?" the Knight questioned with a slightly taken back expression.
"I heard from Shiho that the two of you went out - and without your armor, no less - several days ago. I hope that you're being more upfront with her. She deserves a boy who won't lie," Tiana responded curtly.
The Ultimate Knight seemed to grow very pale. Laris bowed her head low before taking another small sip of lemonade. "I haven't been completely truthful about a lot of things. For that I'm very sorry, M'lady."
An exasperated sigh escaped Tiana. "Please stop apologizing, Laris. Everyone lies from time to time, I just wish I knew why you felt the need to in the first place."
Laris offered a shameful expression. "When Novoselic fell, and even afterwards, I was forced to do things that I'm not proud of. Lying and deception at times became part of it, even if the notion disgusted me. I ran across more than a few agents of despair. My sword is no virgin blade, of that much I can assure you."
The Ultimate Dominatrix lowered her crop as her gaze softened. "The world went to hell, it's that simple. Try as we might to fight it, almost everyone was changed. We just have to do what we can to get it back on track. We have to learn how to move on."
"I wish it were that simple, M'lady. Some burdens aren't so easily lifted."
Tiana quirked a single brow. "What do you mean?"
"Forget it, I'm just being melodramatic. I should probably get back inside. I could really use a shower," Laris mused. "Thank you for the lemonade, M'lady. It was very kind of you."
"Of course. I'm glad I could help," Tiana responded.
The Dominatrix watched the Knight head towards the entrance with a puzzled expression.
3:08 P.M Day Six
Resort District
Fifth Floor
Hotel (Room 503)
Chloe stood behind Maddie, who faced a full-length mirror.
The girl's normally pulled back hair fell in long, styled waves that crested along the middle of her back, with just a few bangs that hung loose over her forehead. Her glasses had been removed in favor of contact lenses at the behest of the Fashion Designer. Her normal sweater was also discarded for a white floral sundress that accentuated her petite frame. She even had hints of lipstick, eyeliner, and blush on her face.
The Fashion Designer gingerly rested her hands on the girl's shoulders. "Personally, I always thought you were beautiful. But now you truly sparkle, so what do you think?"
Madison's lower lip slowly folded inward as tears welled up in her soft blue eyes. "I-I don't know. I'll never know."
"You can't see any of it? I didn't realize how serious your condition was. Maddie, I'm so sorry," Chloe whispered as she felt the girl trembling slightly.
"It's all right, it's nothing new to me. My hair looks nice and so does the outfit, but that's all I can see. That's why I don't normally even try," she admitted.
"Maddie why didn't you say something sooner? I wouldn't have put you through this if I had known."
The Mathematician offered a somber smile. "Because it seems to make other people happy. If they can see me, maybe it's enough."
Chloe slowly curled her arms around the girl from behind before gently squeezing her. "You're too good for this world. You shouldn't go through life focusing on just pleasing other people. If you do that long enough, you'll only make yourself miserable."
"It's all right, I know everyone meant well. It's hard for people to understand what's it's like."
"You're not doing this whole concert tomorrow just to appease people, are you?" the Fashion Designer asked.
Madison shook her head in response. "No. I really do think it might be fun, or at the very least keep my mind focused on something beyond math or death."
Chloe loosened her hold. "I'm sure you'll do a great job. For what it's worth, you look like an angel."
"You're just saying that," Maddie mumbled bashfully.
"There are many things I would lie about, but that's not one of them."
4:11 P.M Day Six
Resort District
Second Floor
Hotel (Spa Locker Room)
"There there. Now don't you feel better? I had noticed dark circles forming under your eyes. You haven't been able to sleep a lot lately, have you? I just thought this might help you relax. After all, a person's general wellbeing is closely tied to their physical health."
A grumble escaped the Journalist. "You're just fishing for praise, aren't you?"
"Was I right?" Soo Yeong chuckled as he adjusted his towel before eying the boy next to him.
Lachlan rolled his eyes. "Yeah, I have to admit that a massage did feel pretty damn good. Though I'm not sure why you insisted on me coming with you."
The Plastic Surgeon sighed softly. "I must apologize for being slightly deceitful. As of late, I've had a constant shadow every time I've been alone. I just wanted a moment without Utano following my every step."
"You know he just likes you. You don't have to treat him like a nuisance," the boy responded curtly.
"I'm afraid it must sound cruel, but he is a nuisance. Even if I did find him remotely attractive, he's taken to stalking me. He hardly gives me a moment of peace unless I'm talking with someone else. Often times I can feel his presence close."
The Investigative Journalist rubbed at his jaw as they stopped in front of a series of lockers. "You could just be honest with him. He's just enamored with you because you're his savior."
Soo Yeong offered a smile. "I take it he's already spoken with you then?"
Lachlan gave a halfhearted shrug. "He might have brought it up the other day. Seriously though, what's the harm in just setting him straight? Or better yet, maybe give the guy a chance? He seems earnest enough."
"I don't want to hurt his feelings, but I'm beginning to think there isn't an acceptable alternative," Soo Yeong said as he opened his locker.
A moment elapsed before a letter fell from the locker and landed at the surgeon's feet. He gave a soft sigh as he stooped to collect the parchment.
A few seconds elapsed as he read the contents, before his visible eye narrowed.
Soo Yeong scowled before thrusting the note towards Lachlan. "This is precisely why I want nothing to do with him. Read it for yourself."
Lachlan's gaze flitted across the page of neatly written script carefully.
Would it be ok if I took some of your time?
Would it be ok if I wrote you a rhyme?
Would it be ok if I opened my heart?
Would it be ok if I took on the part
Of being your man and showed you a view,
One that only a real man could do?
Would it be ok if I could make you smile?
Would it be ok if I held you awhile?
Would it be ok if I kissed your face?
Would it be ok if I were to replace
All the men in your past that just wouldn't do
And vow to be faithful and always be true?
Would it be all right to look in your eyes?
Would it be all right to never tell lies?
Would it be all right to find a way?
Would it be all right to long for the day
To pull you close and whisper in your ear
And tell you our feelings are nothing to fear?
Would it be ok if I took some of your time?
Would it be ok if I wrote you a rhyme?
To tell you there's nothing I'd rather do
Than spend my whole life loving only you...
"Wow. He's really serious, isn't he? Lachlan asked.
"It's unhealthy how attached he's become in such a short amount of time." The Plastic Surgeon sighed.
The Journalist frowned slightly. "Well, what do you plan to do?"
Soo Yeong's lips pulled into a tight line. "My plan? I will simply ignore this note altogether. Should I give him any attention, it will likely only serve to add to his unhealthy obsession with me."
"Look, I know you're not interested, but don't you think you're overreacting a little bit? He's probably just not used to expressing himself like this," Lachlan responded.
"Perhaps you're right, but I just don't see any good coming from stringing him along. Romance is the last thing on my mind with our current predicament."
5:25 P.M Day Six
Resort District
Third Floor
Casino
Tomoko sighed as she gazed up from the poker table and fixated her attention on Seikatsu, who stood several feet away. "Are you here to annoy me? If so, go bother someone else."
"Do you wish to express something that troubles you, Tomoko? Offer a prayer to the Lord? There is no shame in revealing yourself and asking for forgiveness, so long as you truly offer your heart to Temperance and embrace the warmth of the Lord."
A look of surprise mixed with disdain flitted cross the Shogi Player's face. "This may be the most annoying personality I've seen thus far. I certainly don't put much stock in some higher power. Even if there is a god, what kind of benevolent god would allow such atrocities to occur? No, instead of looking to the sky, people should be focused on saving themselves."
"Even in your doubt, you should still look up to them. Man's heart can be corrupt, but our Lord inspires kindness and warmth in others. Think of Jesus's sacrifice for us, and of the crucified thief who was comforted by the presence of Jesus and asked for forgiveness and permission to Heaven. Another thief refused to believe in the power of Jesus, and he was the one cast down from paradise for ignoring his compassion, regrets, and forgiveness."
"Compassion?" Tomoko scoffed as she settled her cards back onto the table. "Where is that compassion now? It's nonexistent."
Seikatsu offered a sympathetic smile. "We cannot begin to understand what the greater plan is. We should just trust that there is one."
The Shogi Player scowled as she stood up. "Greater plan? What greater plan consists of dozens of teenagers lying battered and mutilated beneath a rollercoaster? I want nothing to do with a god like that. You're even more of a fool than I thought."
"I offer my apologies. I didn't mean to upset you. If you do not wish to hear of Lord's word, perhaps you'll let us speak of other matters?" the Tarotologist suggested.
"Have I not made myself perfectly clear already? I have no interest in the affairs of anyone here. The less involved I become, the easier it is when one of you inevitably die," Tomoko responded bluntly.
Seikatsu shook her head softly. "But you're only isolating yourself. Don't you realize that there is strength in numbers?"
A scoff escaped the Shogi Player. "Strength, you say? The closer I allow one of you, the easier it becomes to backstab me. I am playing this game to win. I will not let myself be taken in by false platitudes. Consider this conversation over, I have nothing more to say to you."
"But Tomoko, not everyone is out to g-"
The Tarotologist was suddenly silenced as Tomoko swung left her hand outward, catching the other girl in the jaw. Seikatsu crumpled to the floor as her head bowed low.
Tomoko stood over her with an annoyed expression. "Let that be a lesson to you for not having common sense. I'm sure you will appreciate what I have to say from now on."
Seikatsu's body shifted before she slowly rose to her feet. Her normally grey eyes seemed darker somehow; it was almost like staring into the void. Her expression was unreadable and it sent a shiver down the Shogi Player's spine.
As Tomoko began to take a step backwards, the Tarotologist's hands shot outward before grasping her neck with almost inhuman strength. Without warning, the girl lifted Tomoko off the ground by her neck.
"S-Seikatsu, stop! Dammit, I'm sorry." She choked out. Tomoko kicked the girl's knee as hard as she could manage, and yet it didn't seem to phase the other girl in the slightest.
The Ultimate Tarotologist merely continued to stare at her with a hollow expression as she continued to choke the life out of her.
Tomoko could feel the world around her beginning to spin as her lungs began to ache. However, before oblivion seized her, she felt herself falling before collapsing onto the ground. Her eyes snapped wide open as she took a sharp breath. She quickly snapped her gaze up to see Seikatsu stumbling back a few feet with a horrified expression.
"I-I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you. I-I just can't control Death," she stammered out before she turned and quickly bolted from the room.
The Shogi Player remained on the floor as she rubbed at her throat, her gaze fixated on the Tarotologist as she fled from sight.
The lesson she'd sought to impart had been returned in full.
One thing was for certain: had Seikatsu not changed personalities, it would have been her death that everyone would be investigating.
Her own ignorance had almost been her undoing. She couldn't make the same mistake twice.
6:10 P.M Day Six
Carnival District
Circus Tent
The loud sound of carnival music blared throughout the massive tent. Yushikuma could be seen riding around on a unicycle in the center of the ring while juggling knives simultaneously.
"I have to admit, I'm surprised you wanted to come, Shiho." Haruto chuckled as he eyed the girl to the left of him.
The Ultimate Runner offered an infectious smile. "Even if I can't see the show, I can still pick up on a lot of stuff. I've got pretty amazing hearing, ya know? Besides, this music is really catchy."
Dolly held Becky up towards the center of the ring. "Bah! I just wish the red reject down there would stab himself in the face with one of those knives. Now that would make for a good show."
The Parental Figure offered the puppet a disapproving look. "I don't think wishing harm on Yushikuma would do anything to help our situation right now."
"S-Sorry. Becky can be really vindictive sometimes," Dolly stammered.
"Vindictive? I ain't freakin' vindictive, meathead! And who said anything about helping our situation? I just thought it would liven the show up," Becky quipped.
Haruto shook his head slightly. "I think it's pretty wild as it is. Yushikuma must have some real coordination."
Shiho pouted slightly. "Hey, can you guys tell me what's going on? Maybe describe it to me?"
"Well, there's this red jackass with a top hat riding around on a fucking unicycle. He's juggling knives too," Becky responded.
"Becky, what have I said about language? There's no reason to use such profanity," Haruto said in a firm manner.
"BLAH BLAH BLAH! Seriously, you're a broken damn record. Save your counseling for someone who wants it, dipshit," the puppet responded.
Dolly offered a mortified look before slowly resting a free hand over Becky's mouth. "Sorry about that, Haruto."
A sigh escaped the boy. "There's no reason to apologize. Let's just enjoy the rest of the show. At least tomorrow you'll be able to really appreciate the concert, Shiho."
Shiho offered a bright smile at the mention of it. "Yup! I'm super excited to be there! I can't wait to have my socks knocked off!"
7:45 P.M Day Six
Resort District
Fourth Floor
Hotel (Room 402)
"I know it may be overwhelming at first, but if you can simply understand your own parts you can learn the rest of this upon further practice," Sigmund explained.
Madison's gaze flitted away from the sheet music before settling on Sigmund. "May I ask you a question?"
"I believe that in itself counts as a question," the Paralympic Athlete pointed out.
"No, I mean a real question that has nothing to do with this sheet music. I was just sort of curious how you learned to play the harmonica. And I guess I was admittedly curious about how you lost your arm and leg."
Sigmund let out a dry chuckle. "Well, at least you're blunt about it, instead of beating around the bushes. Yes, as you might suspect I wasn't always stuck with only two working limbs. I was unfortunately caught in an earthquake, and was pinned beneath the rubble. My amputations are the result of that."
A moment passed between the pair as the boy seemed to stare off into space. "That's all I wish to discuss about the incident. As for my skills with a Harmonica? I was stuck in the hospital for a very long time, and I had to learn how to do things with the limbs I had. I started by learning how to fold origami with one hand, and eventually moved on to the harmonica. It was an instrument that wasn't hampered by my disabilities. After months of practice, I became quite skilled in my own right."
"Physically speaking, it's impressive what you've been able to accomplish. Your movements are typically as fast as someone with both of their legs, which suggests you must have a great deal of muscle in the rest of your body," the Mathematician mused.
"Well, I won't gloat, but I have pushed my body to its limits. I refuse to be defined by my disabilities."
Maddie, seemingly pleased with the response, nodded. "Thank you. I'm sorry if anything I asked made you uncomfortable."
Sigmund shook his head "No, you're quite fine. Believe me, I've received far more blunt and less polite questions in the past. In any case, why don't we return to the reason you're here in the first place?"
"Right, of course. Sometimes my brain starts to wander unless I'm focusing on a math problem. The professor would be frustrated with me," Maddie muttered.
"Professor?"
The Mathematician nodded her head softly. "Yes. I guess you could say Professor O'Gee is my mentor. Without him I would have never been able to learn such advanced college-level mathematics or have articles published in magazines before entering high school."
"I see. This guy sounds pretty special. Though I'm sort of surprised you even attended high school in the first place. It sounds like you could have gone straight into college."
"Yes, but you see, I need a great deal of money. My mother raised me alone, and our family is in a lot of debt. I thought if I got scouted for Hope's Peak, I could secure a job to pay back the Professor and that it would bring an end to our financial problems," Maddie responded. "Though, admittedly, it all feels like a different life. Right now I'm trying my best to act normal and hope I survive."
The Ultimate Paralympic Athlete offered her a sympathetic expression. "It's strange, isn't it? I would be lying if I said I wasn't trying to do the same thing. Though in the back of my mind, I can't help but think it's only a matter of time till something horrible happens again."
Maddie frowned slightly. "There are too many variables to account for. I just wish I knew our odds. Not knowing what will happen next is maddening."
"That's why I've chosen to focus on an outlet for the time being," Sigmund said as he waved the sheet music into the air with his gloved hand. "I'd suggest we get back to work."
8:32 P.M Day Six
Resort District
Fifth Floor
Hotel (Room 501)
A trill of laughter escaped the Love Guru as she opened her door to see a very embarrassed-looking Poet. There was a flush extending from his cheeks down to his neck.
"What's got you so flustered, Utano? Your face resembles a tomato."
"W-Well, it's just that I..." He trailed off as he glanced up and down the hallway.
Churi let the door swing open as she took a step backwards before gesturing with her hand. "Don't just stand there. Please come in."
Utano followed her advice as he quietly strode into the bedroom and shut the door behind him.
"So what's eating at you, huh? You look really tense."
The Poet followed behind the girl as he fidgeted with his hands. "Well, I-I did it! I finally did it."
"Did what, exactly? Take a deep breath. Maybe that will help." Churi suggested as she eyed the boy curiously.
Utano he took a steadying breath, before patting his cheeks. "I finally mustered the courage to leave a poem for Soo Yeong. I-I couldn't bring myself to hand it to him, but I did leave it in his locker."
The smile slowly faded from the Guru's face. "Utano, don't you think you're coming on a little strong?"
"Strong? Whatever do you mean? I just wanted my beloved to know just how I feel about him. What better way than to pour my heart out onto a page?" the Poet gushed.
"I understand how you feel, but have you ever thought about taking things slower? What if Soo Yeong doesn't feel as strongly about you?" Churi asked.
A look of despair filled the boy's face. "No, that's absurd! I know he loves me, he has to feel the same way. That first day he saved me life and held me against his chest. I knew then that he was the one for me. I'm sure he feels the same way. I just know it."
Churi offered a slightly nervous chuckle. "Well, it does seem like sparks did start to fly for you. Just maybe give him some time and don't crowd him? I'd say let him come to you."
"Oh, you don't have to worry. I just know that once he's had some time to feel my words pouring into him he'll agree we should be together. Maybe we can even sit together tomorrow and watch the concert."
"Just don't get too far ahead of yourself! Love is beautiful, but you don't want to set yourself up for heartache if things go wrong. Even if things don't work out with Soo Yeong there are many different fish in the sea. I'd be more than happy to help if it doesn't work out, " Churi responded.
The Ultimate Poet shook his head frantically. "No, that's not possible. I know that my heart was poured into that poem. I know my words will reach him. I won't let anyone else have him. He is MINE."
Churi's eyes widened marginally. "N-No, Utano, there's no reason to get so worked up. I don't think it's right to say a person belongs to anyone."
A dark gleam filled the Poet's eyes as he eyed her suspiciously. "You like him don't you? You like MY Soo Yeong?!"
"No, it's not like that. I would never come between someone else and who they love," the girl stammered.
Utano laughed nervously as he rested a hand over his face. "Oh, thank goodness. I thought I was going to have to kill you."
The Guru shivered slightly. "Kill me?"
"Churi, I was just making a joke. So long as no one tries to take my darling away, you have nothing to worry about," Utano said with a pleasant smile. "Oh, would you look at the time? I should probably get going. Thank you for the chat!" the boy called out as he waved his hand before moving towards the door.
As it shut the Guru quickly locked it before sliding down to the ground.
'He said it was just a joke- that he wasn't serious. But my heart won't stop racing. Soo Yeong needs to know about Utano. He needs to know that he might be dangerous.'
9:49 P.M Day Six
Resort District
Fourth Floor
Hotel (Room 411)
"Blagh! I just can't make my fingers move like that, matey!" the Ultimate Sailor groused.
Kaizoku seemed to stare dejectedly down at the bass strapped around his shoulder. "Ye might have made a mistake in bringing me onto your crew, Naruhiko."
"Hah, nonsense! No reason to fucking sweat it. You're not gonna be a pro overnight. You're too fucking tense, though," the Punk Musician said as he came up behind the other boy.
"Ye really think so?" Kaizoku asked.
A wild grin spread across Naruhiko's face. "Hey, I'm the fucking pro, right? See, you gotten loosen up before you can really get into the swing of things. Here, let me show you."
The Ultimate Punk Musician wrapped his arms around the other boy before gingerly adjusting his hands and fingers. "You're like a damn statue, you gotta relax a bit. If you're all tense it's going to show in your performance." He breathed.
"R-Right," the Sailor responded quietly. "I don't need to be stiff as a board."
Naruhiko grinned as he took the boy's hand before using his fingers to slowly strum the strings.
The room was filled with a low hum from the plucking of the strings.
"Yeah, there we go. See how that sounds? Try that again on your own," the musician said before removing his hand.
A slightly nervous expression flitted to the sailor's face, his fingers tentatively plucked the strings before the same cadence filled the room again. "Ye were right! That didn't sound too bad, did it?"
A smirk spread across Naruhiko's pierced face before he raised his hands to adjust the other boy's shoulders. "Heh, fucking righteous. Now just remember to strum like that and to keep your posture loose so your arms and hands don't cramp up."
Kaizoku slowly adjusted his posture. "So when did you know that music was your passion?"
"Jeez, dude, my folks said I came out of the womb ready to thrash. This is just between you and I, but I even sleep with my guitar. That way I can even jam during my dreams." He grinned. "What about you? When'd you realize you wanted to hit the ocean?"
The Ultimate Sailor offered a fond smile as he gently strummed the strings of the bass. "Well, ye could say that it runs in my blood. My whole family is obsessed with the sea. My father was known as the Ultimate Naval Mechanic, and my wee sister is the Ultimate Marine Biologist. I'm just glad she wasn't among those here with us in the park at the beginning."
Naruhiko whistled as he took a step back. "Wowza! A family of Ultimates, huh? That's pretty fucking sweet! Gotta say my real family is my bandmates. Ever since we started Mirage, we've been through some serious shit together. Boy, am I gonna have a story to tell them when we get out of here."
"You seem so sure we're gonna get out, but what if that's just not in the cards?" Kaizoku asked as his expression soured. "I don't want to think about it, but there's a chance this might be where Davy Jones takes me. This game is like the sea itself; it can be tumultuous and unpredictable."
"Hah, as if! Don't you worry, handsome, Naruhiko motherfucking Mirai isn't about to let that happen! After all, we entered this fucked up park side by side, so we're gonna be leaving the same way!" the rocker exclaimed.
The Ultimate Sailor was struck silent a moment as he regarded the other boy. He slowly loosened his grip on the bass in his hands. "Hey, Naruhiko, might I ask ye a question?"
The Musician offered a shrug before collapsing back onto a nearby couch. "Go for it, man! If it's about tomorrow, you'll be just fine. You just gotta relax and own that shit!"
A chuckle escaped Kaizoku. "No, it's not about that. I was just curious: are you into guys or girls? I'd seen you with Kanade so I kind of assumed you were straight."
"Guys, girls, heck I'd probably be into anything in between. You wouldn't believe how close it makes a band when all its members are lying buck naked after a big show. Just letting the music take over you and just fucking till dawn. It's a pretty awesome life." The musician chuckled. "Kanade sure is a freaking babe, but I'm not sure I'm the kind of guy she'd want to bring home to her parents. Heh, she probably needs a nice dude like Laris. I mean that dude is a fucking perfect ten, shame he seems to be such a tight ass. Then there's Chloe and Tiana. Fuck me, dude, even if we're in a shit situation least we have something nice to look at."
A gut busting laugh escaped Kaizoku. "Jeez, I never expected you to be so brutally honest. I'm not used to meeting people as open-minded as you. Most people assume you're either gay or straight, so you end being an outcast in either camp. I'm sort of surprised you didn't mention Soo Yeong, Seikatsu, or Lachlan. I mean, they're all incredibly good looking. Heck, Maddie is adorable herself, and Tomoko herself isn't bad on the eyes. She's just an ice queen."
"Eh, fuck what other people think. Who gives a shit who you're sleeping with? In my opinion, you do what you want, and leave people the fuck alone otherwise." The musician chuckled. "You're right about all of them. Soo Yeong just sort of creeps me out. Like, he sort of reminds me of a doll or something. I mean, he's too fucking hot. That being said, I wouldn't say no if the option presented itself. Heh, you know who's really fucking cute though? Shiho. I mean, did you see the pair on her? Shame that it looks like our man Laris has already called dibs. The bro code says I can't fuck with that."
"Bro code?" Kaizoku questioned before suppressing a snort.
"Yup! It means you don't fuck with someone who's already involved with someone else. You wouldn't want someone fucking with your girl or guy so you gotta show the same courtesy, right?"
The Sailor nodded in agreement as he scratched at his cheek. "Heh, you really are a handful, Naruhiko. You ever thought about settling on one person?"
"Yeah, of course. But shit, who goes into life knowing everything they want, am I right? You gotta taste all life has to offer before making a big decision like that. So what's with the twenty questions? You falling for me?" Naruhiko asked with a grin.
"Argh, don't be getting ahead of yourself. We're here to practice music and that's all," Kaizoku muttered.
A smirk spread across the musician's face. "HAHAHA! Is it just me or are you blushing?"
The Ultimate Sailor shook his head. "J-Just shut up already."
Before Naruhiko could respond, a chiming sound echoed through the Hotel and throughout the park itself.
*DING DONG*
"AHEM! This is your friendly neighborhood Kurokuma speaking! I hope you fucksticks have been enjoying lazing around. Please, you're making me and the others fall asleep. Just fucking kill someone already! Tomorrow is the last day for fucking around. If we don't get a stiff outta ya tomorrow, then you can expect a motive the following day. You better not leave me waiting that long, or I'll really make you fuckers sweat!"
The bear's obnoxious chuckles echoed for several seconds before silence prevailed once more.
"Hm… that doesn't seem to bode well. Ye sure this concert tomorrow is a good idea?" Kaizoku asked.
The Ultimate Punk Musician scratched at the scruff on his chin. "Relax, Zoku. Even the turd said the next motive wouldn't drop till after tomorrow, right? There's no reason to panic. Why don't you get some sleep, and we'll hammer out a quick session before the show tomorrow?"
A sliver of a smile crossed the Sailor's lips. "All right. I guess the show has to go on, right?"
"Right you are. No way a fucking bear is gonna ruin our show." Naruhiko grinned wildly.
18 Survivors Remain
*AN* Well there we go! Another chapter is officially wrapped up. How long will this era of peace last? Stay tuned to find out!
Sources:
Blitzkrieg Bop- Ramones
Poem Author: Ryan Stiltz- (Would it be ok)
Review Section:
BouncingFish
Well I can't thank you or El Torro enough. I really think you guys are helping making these chapters shine.
doomqwer
What's crazier than a normal Nagito? A cloned despair Nagito! Pupupu
Trust Me I'm Me
Phew it can be tiring to try and find new combinations I haven't done yet. Though I'm pretty pleased with the results.
PettyPunk
Well I hope you enjoy this chapter Petty! I appreciate your feedback by the way! =)
ThePLOThand
I'm curious what your prediction list would hold for everyone here.
Blazerxz
Yeah it was finally time for the Nagito clone to show up on the scene and this seemed like a perfect setting for him.
pokemansuperallstar
Yup we're slowly chugging towards the next motive. Though I have been enjoying these smaller moments between characters.
DanganMachin
Uh I don't think it's really a mystery at this point.
Raz The Giant
He's everywhere!
StoryProducer214
It's time for the madness to soon arrive.
Wintersmith23
Hey you know anything is possible at this point ;)
Cinderfall201
Lol I think people would have destroyed me if I had some sort of twist like that.
Fee5H
Well of course he had to make a return and what better time than this? :D
Hail2U
Looking forward to seeing the stats for this chapter haha.
bellatrixshine
You're very welcome. I love Tiana as a character because she's such a subversion of what one might expect.
SootyThunder
I could imagine him being confused if he saw him for himself.