Highschool of the Dead: Us or Them

by HoTDFan

Three brothers from a military family are transferred to Fujimi Academy one day prior to the Z-Day outbreaks. Just when their lives seem to be getting back on track the world is completely unprepared for the living nightmare that opens up a new chapter in human history. The day humans were put back on the food chain. Rated-M. It is Highschool of the Dead afterall.

13. Chapter 13: No One Left Behind

Z-Day+16

Fujimi Academy

Earlier that day before the Lawson trio had been reunited; Tadashi was in the middle of enduring Shido's wrath. His wrists were tied together directly over his head; forcing him to remain standing up, his bindings connected to an overhead rafter.

"For the last time...those kids never told me where they were going! For all I know, they're being extracted by the Self-Defense Force as we speak!" Tadashi announced in a defiant huff, only to be backhanded by Shido, who seemed to take more pain from that swat of the hand than the badly beaten up detective himself did.

"If there's one thing I can spot, it's a liar! Don't try and play me for a fool, old man...hmm, I fear I'm not making this clear enough for you." Shido exclaimed in a loud bark as he held his other hand to feel it throb from the surprisingly hard impact. His voice then lowered as his snake-like eyes swiftly looked back up to meet Tadashi's worrisome gaze.

"Listen, I'm trying to be merciful here and allow them to integrate into our little family. One way or another: those kids, your daughter included, will be ours. Its youth that will inherit this dying Earth; I must make them strong and understand the ultimate truth of nature now: that only the strongest may live and dictate what goes. Everyone bellow that is just an afterthought." Shido began to explain only to go on to start a small speech about his ultimate intentions for his group/cult.

"Only the strongest may live and dictate, huh? So why exactly are YOU in charge then?" Tadashi questioned, forming a sly smirk as he could see the hatred and disgust boiling in Shido's eyes before the man clenched both fists as if ready to explode at such an insult.

However, Shido soon released his clenched fists and ran his two bony hands through his silky black hair; forming a devilish grin before his gaze fixed upon Tadashi; making the detective rather nervous of what the teacher could possibly be smiling about despite still not having the information he wanted.

"You must think you've won for keeping your silence, yes? Well, I can guarantee you that I'm the one you want to be talking to, because my most recent addition to this group can be most unpleasant indeed. Wouldn't you agree, Tatsuya-san?" Shido suddenly announced in triumph as he began to pace around Tadashi only to point out a figure standing in the corner of the room wearing what looked like a white suit with a red dress shirt underneath.

"Did you just say 'Tatsuya'?" the detective gasped in recognition; his eyes widening as the man stepped forward, rolling up his sleeves to reveal both arms were covered in a sleeve of traditional Japanese tattoos. His head was completely shaved; his eyes were a dark orange that practically pierced into Tadashi's soul. Without a doubt, this man couldn't have been anything other than a hardened Yakuza enforcer.

"Koichi-san, you never told me I had a fan here. I almost feel bad for doing this now…ALMOST anyhow." the man known as Tatsuya chuckled in mock surprise before slowly reaching into his right pocket only to then slide onto his fingers what appeared to be brass knuckles.

"Oh, you know each other? How serendipitous! I bet you two have a lot to catch up on!" Shido said with surprise before finding absolute delight in how his new associate clearly wasn't going to be pulling any punches if his demeanor was any indication.

"Oh yeah; this dog has put away some good friends of mine in the past. This is some much needed payback!" Tatsuya exclaimed as he spoke with such energy and excitement whilst Shido appeared to be quite thrilled himself to see the mobster in action without having to get his own hands dirty.

"Hold it! Before you can have your fun, we need to know where his friends are. This is your last chance, detective." Shido said with spite dripping from his every word, clearly wanting nothing more than to see Tadashi's spirit broken. Yet the former teacher was still able to compose himself long enough to know that ultimately he'd want to find where the Lawson's group was located.

"Go to hell, you sick son of a bitch!" Tadashi grumbled, managing to muster enough force to spit in Shido's face despite him being well over several meters away. The twisted leader stood there completely in shock at such an insult, slowly wiping it from his cheek before flicking it aside.

"Do it." Shido snarled as that growl of barely restrained rage began to surface again in his tone; both his yellow eyes nearly bulging as he began to grit his teeth together.

"I thought you wanted the information first?" Tatsuya began to question only for Shido's foot to suddenly slam down like an impatient child.

"I SAID FUCKING DO IT!" Shido then snapped as his voice carried over throughout the adjacent rooms, his face completely red as his eyes looked ready to burst out of their sockets. Such a personal insult had pushed the man into a frenzy that made it crystal clear to Tadashi that he'd struck a nerve.

Without hesitation, Tatsuya suddenly slammed his fist into the middle-aged detective's ribs. A horrid bone cracking sound echoed out as it sounded like one of his ribs had been snapped by the tremendous force. Tadashi's eyes widened as he couldn't help but let out a painful yelp, completely incapable of defending himself in the slightest.

Tatsuya then began to unleash a savage series of hits, both fists pounding into Tadashi's rib cage like he was a personal punching bag. A sadistic grin formed across Shido's lips as he enjoyed watching every ounce of pain being inflicted unto the man who dared defy his will; licking his lips as blood and spit was suddenly coughed up by Tadashi as his head hung in painful exhaustion. Tatsuya then grasped Tadashi's neck and forced him to look him straight in the eyes.

"Feel like talking yet? It all ends the moment you give us a location." Tatsuya said as he watched Tadashi try to form a sentence, breathing heavily after receiving that flurry of brass knuckle punches.

"That's the best you've got? I expected more from someone who's chosen to be scum for a living." Tadashi said before Tatsuya grinned at the still defiant spirit.

"Oh, believe me. I'd be disappointed in myself too if that was all I had in mind." Tatsuya replied calmly only to then walk behind the restrained man, grasping one of his fingers only to suddenly take a pair of pliers and clamp it around the tip of the fingernail.

While the motion was rapid and there was virtually no sound behind it, Tadashi suddenly let out an agonizing shout of pain when the Yakuza soldier had snapped off one of his fingernails. Blood dripped from the tip and the fractured nail as all the nerves in his finger felt like they were on fire. Without hesitation or mercy, Tatsuya did it to the next one. This time he didn't even break the whole nail off, leaving one splintered and twisted; causing the detective to writhe around in his restraints.

"That's...that's quite something; even more so that you choose to continue this futile resistance of yours. No matter though! Tatsuya-san, Teru-san should've been back by now. Take some people with you and see if he's still alive. With any luck, those brats he's chasing have led him to where they're currently residing. Afterwards, we'll come up with a plan to subdue them." Shido said in an almost shocked response as he stared at Tadashi's splintered fingernail, feeling somewhat unnerved by the vicious torture before quickly reverting back to his usual calm self; noticing the horror in the detective's eyes when he mentioned their group, uncertain and horrified what he could've possibly had in mind for them were he to get his wretched hands on them.

"That's right, detective; when we find those boys' group, all of them will be my little playthings, especially that disrespectful bitch daughter of yours. I'm sure you know what we do in our free time. I'll be sure to give you a front row seat when the time comes for HER turn, but for now I'll leave that to your imagination." Shido began to cackle as he was most pleased to see he'd finally broken through Tadashi's otherwise unbreakable nerves of steel; taking great delight in his victory without a hint of shame in using a man's daughter against him.

"And what about that other girl: Miku Yuuki? She helped them escape, didn't she? Want me to remind her of the price of betrayal should I find them first?" Tatsuya piped in as he crossed both arms, wondering just how much free range Shido would be willing to give him.

"No! She's not one of them, not really. That girl is quite subservient and will inevitably come crawling back to me in due time. The others though, those two pesky Lawson brothers...kill the older one, but keep the younger one, Noah-kun, alive. I want to SEE that steadfast will and confidence of his break by MY hand. His intelligence will come in quite handy for what I've got in store for this place." Shido announced as he still had faith in Miku's loyalties whilst housing his own intentions for what he'd do with Noah.

Tatsuya reluctantly nodded in acceptance before taking one last jab at Tadashi, this time striking his stomach; watching him cough up blood before storming off to carry out his orders. The lights in the room suddenly turned off after Shido left shortly afterward, leaving Tadashi in absolute darkness as he bowed his head in defeat; trying his best to fight the soul-crushing thought of Rei being captured by these vile psychopaths.

"Please...hurry up, Noah-san..." Tadashi grumbled before the pain finally rendered him unconscious. His fate was now left in the hands of those two brave boys' group and whatever god was willing to listen.

Back at the hotel

"You're abso-bloody-lutely right they're fucking with the wrong people! So how are we going to get Tadashi-san out of there? Infiltration or do we just start kicking ass left and right?" Marcus announced as he couldn't possibly agree more with Frasier than this moment right now; eager to see what his older brother had in mind for rescuing Rei's father from that wicked place.

"'We'? As in the Lawson's? No, you misunderstand, Marcus. Should they choose to attack us any further, then they'll be taking an early trip to the grave. For now though, we are to avoid this Shido character like the plague and await his response to four less men coming home. Tadashi-san is a good man, but he is NOT our problem." Frasier clarified as that feeling of hope that began to fill the others was quickly dashed the more he explained how they were NOT going to do anything to help the man who'd allowed him and his brothers to reunite in the first place.

"What?! B-but he needs our help! THEY need our help! Surely you'd be willing to lend some kind of aid now when they need us more than ever?" Noah stammered as he was baffled at how cold and uncaring his eldest brother was acting right now. Towards complete strangers, he hated to admit it, but he could partially understand. But THIS was a man Frasier knew, an ally, a comrade, and he was STILL refusing to help?!

"I almost lost you both to that monster. I can't risk either of you going back there, and I must stay here to ensure your safety until extraction eventually arrives." Frasier answered as he just shook his head, not even noticing how heartbroken Rei looked as she didn't even seem to have the energy to chastise him for his selfish behavior.

"Can't you do it for me? Please, Frasier?" Noah then pleaded softly, as if trying to sound more innocent and helpless to persuade Frasier into helping. However, he was only met with a scowl that made him fold instantly.

"YOU of ALL people should NOT be asking me for a favor, Noah! It's bad enough you had me let HER in here! This isn't up for debate anyhow...the Lawson's are not to be involved in any of this and that's FINAL. Now go get some rest. You two have had a long day." Frasier said, effectively chastising Noah into silence as he recoiled back slightly; looking over to Miku who was now standing behind him as if half expecting Frasier to draw his gun on her again, watching the callous leader storming off until all that could be heard was Rei's shaking breaths as she was trying so hard to fight back the overwhelming tears.

"That miserable bastard...of course he'd walk away when I actually need his help." Rei said in barely a whisper as she couldn't even muster up the energy to display her full anger against Frasier's choice; clenching her fingers tight as her nails dug into her own two palms. It wasn't fair. They had everything they could've possibly needed for this to work, and they finally KNEW where her father actually was. He was practically right there in front of them to reach out and take, and now Frasier had literally put the most impenetrable roadblock right in front of that hope, and for WHAT?

"We'll just have to do it ourselves then. We don't need him." Kiriko said as she tried to show some support and maintain what little morale her daughter had left.

"It won't be nearly as easy though, especially considering that Shido has both numbers and hardware against us; but if we catch them off guard, maybe we can even the odds. Any suggestions?"Kohta pondered as he looked around only to be met with uncertain, increasingly nervous looks.

"I think we should all get some rest and pool together our thoughts in the morning. There's no use going out there half-cocked only to wind up dead." Saeko calmly advised as the survivors around her couldn't help but agree. Even Rei, despite how much it hurt to admit it for several reasons, nodded her head before she made her way upstairs.

"So, how's Komuro doing, Shizuka-sensei?" Saya suddenly asked as she turned to see the blonde nurse carefully examining him, her hands checking over his pulse before putting a stethoscope to his chest.

"I don't know how to put this, but I think our Komuro-kun can't take much more of this." Shizuka expressed in a soft sigh as she looked at Takashi's unconscious figure with great concern; her hand gently brushing his hair aside to reveal the seemingly tranquil look he had on his face.

"W-what are you trying to tell us? Is he sick or something?" Saeko pressed further as she rushed over to make sure this wasn't as bad as she feared it was.

"No...Well, kind of...the way his eye has been twitching involuntarily the last couple days, the blackouts, the increase in his heart rate...I can't help but feel he's suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder." Shizuka revealed as she bowed her head, unable to see how horrified and despaired the others now looked after hearing such unwanted news.

"Makes sense; there's nothing that could've prepared these kids for all the things they've no doubt had to witness and endure over the last seventeen days. Honestly, I'm surprised this didn't happen sooner." Rika suddenly piped in; shaking her head before lighting up a cigarette and blowing it straight up into the air after several seconds of taking a long, uninterrupted inhale.

"It almost did for Hirano-kun, but I think he was lucky and pulled through thanks to a certain someone." Shizuka replied as she briefly looked over at Saya who raised an eyebrow to those last few words, as if completely unaware she was the one being referred to.

"So what can we do for him?" Saeko asked as she felt completely powerless to do anything to help him. A sinking feeling took hold of her heart as she felt more helpless than ever before now.

"If there even IS anything we can do for him." Saya commented,only to earn an annoyed glare from the swordswoman before she looked over to Shizuka to see what, if anything, she had to say about it all.

"For now, the best we can do is to keep him away from all of this. Komuro-kun simply can't take any more responsibility or stress. We've relied on him so much; it's proved to be more of a burden than he cared to show." Shizuka suggested as her words seemed to be said with a tired sigh, as if the weight of everything the group was now facing was starting to finally wear on her shoulders.

"So if he just relaxes and no longer makes the calls around here; that should help him recover from all of this?" Saeko softly asked as she gently ran the back of her hand against Takashi's cheek; uncertain how she didn't realize sooner that he had been under so much pressure and stress to put him in such a state.

"It's a step in the right direction at least." Shizuka acknowledged before letting out a gentle yawn, barely able to cover her mouth in time before the others began to feel the weight of the last twelve hours of searching finally taking its toll on them.

"That's all I needed to know for now. Thank you, Marikawa-sensei." Saeko said in a grateful sigh before sitting beside Takashi as if planning to stay by his side the entire day while he rested on the couch.

"C'mon, munchkin, it's way past your naptime!" Saya suddenly announced the moment she noticed Alice was still downstairs with the few remaining others that didn't immediately retire to their rooms.

"But I'm not tired yet. Do I really have to?" Alice whined as she was hoping to stay up. However, her bold resistance was swiftly crushed when Saya just shot her that signature glare of annoyance. The young genius then smirked to herself when Alice did exactly as she was told and marched up the stairs; prompting the bespectacled girl to quickly follow behind the little girl to make sure she didn't find any further distractions along the way.

"Will you be alright down here? Should I ask the boys to help move him up to your room?" Shizuka asked as she looked over at Saeko, who seemed to be preparing to settle down in the lobby for the night as she watched over Takashi like she was his personal bodyguard now.

"I'll be fine. Your concerns are appreciated though." Saeko thanked as she bowed to Shizuka out of respect before watching the nurse form a rather touched smile at the old-fashioned gesture; walking up the stairs and leaving the young samurai to herself and her unconscious boyfriend.

Saeko knelt down beside Takashi, gently stroking his hair as she could only imagine how hard all of this had been on him to break him this thoroughly. She knew that no matter what, she had to protect him from the world now. A strong sense of duty was overflowing within every fiber of her being as she then rested against his warm body; her ear to his chest as her eyes began to close; drifting off into slumber after being lulled by his heart beat, the rhythm all too calming for her.

Suddenly, Saeko lifted her head up when she could've sworn she heard someone moving around near the front entrance. She felt dazed as her eyes desperately tried to close themselves; indicating she was asleep for a short period of time but still needed more rest before doing anything else.

Her curiosity however overpowered the desire to continue her rest long enough to focus and see Frasier himself messing with the door. Knowing he was up to something, she carefully got up and began to tip toe her way to him; making extra sure that he couldn't hear her approaching from behind.

"Going somewhere?" Saeko suddenly whispered, slightly grinning to herself as she watched Frasier flinch so hard his shoulders practically pumped up into the air as his keys to the twin doors dropped to the floor with a slight rattle.

"Ah...Saeko-san? W-what are you doing down here?!" the startled Brit demanded in a low hush as he tried to compose himself.

"I asked you first." Saeko briefly replied, folding her arms around her sides with an eyebrow raised at his sneaky behavior. Her face showed no humor behind it as she was determined to find out what he was getting up to at this time of day. She knew he was hiding something from her considering how nervous he appeared to be.

"Me? Erm, well...I was just going to get some fresh air!" Frasier awkwardly answered as he avoided looking straight into those deep blue eyes of hers that always made his knees wobble at times like this. Her intense glares were bad enough, but her soothing voice speaking to him like this was an inquisition made it all the harder for him to resist answering honestly.

"If that's true then why didn't you just go up to the roof?" Saeko then asked as it was quite clear to Frasier that she knew he was lying.

"Fine! If it means so much to you, I was going to do some recon; see just how well fortified this Shido's base really is." Frasier confessed as he no longer saw the point in hiding his true intentions from her.

"And you were going to go out there alone? Why must you insist on doing everything alone?" Saeko scorned as it was quite clear his arrogance and headstrong attitude was really starting to wear her patience thin after all this time.

"Because I operate better on my own for tasks such as these; I'm less likely to be detected that way, and it makes it even less likely for things to go wrong." Frasier retorted as it was abundantly clear he was set on doing things his way.

"And if something DOES go wrong? What will you do then?" the violet-haired teenager said as she continued to prod him with questions as if trying to help him see an error in his thinking. Her voice however was starting to fill with frustration as he just shook his head in denial.

"It won't. But say it does: either I make a tactical retreat and come back here, or I dig in and prepare for whatever comes my way." Frasier answered as he was quite confident in his abilities and training to carry him through any situation he'd encounter out there. Saeko closed her eyes as she formed an irked expression and let out an especially heavy sigh.

"I really wish you'd stop trying to do everything on your own, Frasier-kun. You keep acting like you have to prove something when you really don't. Please, just reconsider this before you do something we'll all regret later. Let us in so we can understand you better." Saeko sighed, her voice brimming with both disappointment and genuine care for Frasier that made him turn away shyly. He just faced the door as his confidence was reduced to a low mutter.

"I will always have something to prove, not just to my father, but to myself as well. Just...let me go so I can determine how serious Shido really is. I'll be back in a few hours." Frasier sighed as he spoke in a lower tone, looking down at his shoes as it was impossible to look his crush in the eyes whenever she'd try to learn more about him or prod at him like this.

"I don't understand, you said you didn't want to be involved in any of this. Why are you going if you don't wanna help us?" Saeko questioned as it was hard for her to understand the logic behind him leaving.

"I'm not going there for Tadashi-san's sake. I'm just going to observe and take note of anything that might be worth knowing." Frasier corrected, showing no concern for the captive detective or the rest of Takashi's group.

"We need you HERE though. If anything happens to you, we'd be entirely without leadership." Saeko explained as this caused Frasier to perk up, somewhat confused now at what she was saying.

"Huh? What about Takashi-san?" Frasier asked, motioning over to his figure resting calmly on the couch nearby.

"You weren't here...but after you went upstairs, Shizuka-sensei examined him a bit more thoroughly. She came to the conclusion that he's suffering from PTSD, that if he tried to keep making hefty decisions around here, that it would break him even further. I hate to put this on you...but I think you'll have to take charge…of all of us." Saeko explained as she filled him in on the missing details, watching as he was visibly shocked to hear her even suggest such a thing.

"Me? I couldn't do that even if I wanted to. Your group doesn't like me enough to accept that notion, let alone trust me." Frasier denied as he shook his head at the idea of him being the leader of both groups.

"Then help them learn to trust you! Help us get Rei-san's father out of there! I know you are more than capable, and I believe in you! Frasier-kun, I know you've been through a lot, even before the outbreak, but this is your chance to show everyone what you're capable of; to show that you do care about them despite your efforts to conceal it." Saeko expressed in a low hush as she suddenly placed both of her hands on his shoulders, practically forcing eye contact as he just looked at her with uncertainty. Conflict swirled around in his brain as he eventually bowed his head only for her to lift his chin up.

"I'll think about it." Frasier whispered before he walked over to Takashi's body; observing him for a moment, still astonished that a civilian managed to last this long before the pressure became too much for him to endure. He then hoisted Takashi up and began to carry him up the stairs, Saeko following close behind as she could only hope now that her best friend would truly consider the possibility of leadership for her group.

'You can do this, Frasier-kun. I just know it.' Saeko thought to herself as she watched him going up the stairs; an overpowering feeling of trust and faith resonating within her as she knew he was the right man for the job, even if he needed a push in the right direction to realize that himself.

Meanwhile…

As Frasier helped Saeko carry Takashi up into their room, Noah showed Miku his room. Both young lovers watched as Marcus packed up the last of his stuff, knowing they'd want a room to themselves without him to walk in on them a second time. He stopped in the doorway with a suitcase in hand, turning to say one last thing before taking an unoccupied room for himself.

"Try not to break the bed now, you two!" Marcus announced with one last sly remark before a flustered Noah slammed the door behind him; Miku trying to keep herself from giggling aloud as Noah was clearly blushing now. She then sat on the edge of the nearest bed, her knees slowly curled up to her chest.

"Cheeky bugger..." Noah grumbled before he then looked at Miku whose demeanor suddenly made a full 180 when her smile shifted into an expression of what could only be described as sadness.

"Are you alright, Miku-chan? He was just joking..." Noah said in an attempt to console Miku as her eyes just stared at the ground. He calmly walked over before gently planting himself beside her on the edge of the bed.

"It's not Marcus-san that has me down...it's...you know..." Miku explained in a soft sigh as she crossed both of her arms; Noah then realizing just who she might be talking about.

"Frasier?" Noah gently asked as he watched her head give a slight nod to confirm his suspicion.

"Yes...he terrifies me. I know he loves you both dearly, that much is clear as day, but the way he looked at me and reacted when he found out who I once was with...how do you know he'll stay true to his word and not just kill me when you're not there to talk him down?" Miku began to confess out of genuine fear; her voice progressively trembling the more she spoke, looking at Noah with tears threatening to form in the corner of her eyes.

"If there's one thing I can count on, it's that Frasier will always stay true to his word. He'd have to have really lost the plot if he'd go as far as breaking a promise." Noah answered with undeniable confidence in what he'd come to expect from Frasier for the longest time now.

"And if he has, as you say: 'lost the plot'?" Miku asked as she sniffled a little, her voice somewhat more relieved as if he'd managed to instill some hope within her, but still unable to completely shake free from her nagging doubts.

"Well...the others might not approve of you just yet, but they certainly won't tolerate open and unprovoked executions. We've got your back, Miku-chan. Just let them see what I can see in you and everything will be just fine in no time." Noah said in such a compelling way that the troubled girl couldn't help but smile at such confidence in both herself and his friends.

"And what is it that you see in me, again?" Miku asked coyly as her left leg gently brushed up against Noah's right one.

"You know exactly what I see in you, Angel." the youngest of the Lawson trio sighed back as he could see that she had that look of longing in her beautiful orange eyes again. One hand gently caressed his cheek as the other began to tug on the collar of his slightly torn shirt.

"Maybe I like hearing those sweet little words from your sweet-tasting lips." Miku playfully teased as her hips suddenly swerved around until she found herself sitting in his lap with both legs wrapping around his waist.

"Maybe I forgot?" Noah replied with a cheeky grin on his face, earning a soft giggle from Miku before she leaned in and kissed him softly on the lips; gently tugging on his lower lip before pushing his upper body back while she continued to straddle his lap.

"So...I don't suppose you would know how loud these mattresses creak?" Miku then asked, watching Noah blush hard before forming a desiring expression that practically dared her to test that very theory out; her soft lips pursing into a hungry smile before the zipper to his dirty jeans came straight down.

Meanwhile…

Marcus on the other hand found himself lugging his newfound suitcase stuffed with all his personal belongings across the hallway until he reached the door to a vacant room. Just as he turned the doorknob, it was then that he caught a figure standing in his peripheral vision.

"Hey..." Hitomi's voice suddenly sighed as she was leaning against the wall, staring at him with an almost vacant gaze. In her hand was a small bottle of what looked like beer.

"Hitomi-chan...Are you alright?" Marcus questioned concernedly before she stumbled forward, making it quite clear she'd had a drink or two herself before approaching him. His hands gently clutched around her arms as she tried to balance herself upright.

"Me...? I-I'm fine! It's... it's you who isn't fine, mister." Hitomi suddenly announced with little to no control at how loud her voice was projecting, causing Marcus to mentally recoil from the little outburst.

"Hitomi-chan...You've been drinking, haven't you?" Marcus asked as he was uncertain what had spurred such a response from her; somewhat caught off guard by how shaken she was right now. Something clearly had been on her mind that the alcohol helped drag out.

"Mmmaaayyybbbeee, hehehe!" Hitomi responded in a childlike hum before giggling like she was a school girl again. Marcus' face turned a soft pink as she then hugged him tight and buried her face into his chest.

"Marcus-kun...can we go sit down? My head is spinning." Hitomi suddenly requested as he gave a short nod before helping her walk over to a nearby bed and helping her sit down at the edge of it before he went back to drag his suitcase in; closing the door behind him as she watched him the entire time.

"Something's clearly been bugging you if you've resorted to drinking like this. What's going on with you?" Marcus suddenly asked as he looked over his shoulder at Hitomi, who just looked away as if she'd been shunned for her sudden behavior. She then clenched her hands and formed an irritated frown.

"You wanna...know why I'm so off? Because of you! I've been worried sick! I...I thought I lost you...!" Hitomi suddenly exclaimed in a rough outburst as she shot Marcus a stern glare. He just stood there in shock as she then stood up, staggering towards him with the full intent to continue her drunken rant.

"I was half c-convinced...I'd never see you again! That I-" Hitomi began to go on in a hysterical stammer only to be stopped mid-sentence when Marcus suddenly put a single hand on her warm cheek.

Her beautiful eyes stared at him with tears trickling down her face before both her hands reached forward and grasped his cheeks; pulling the middle Lawson in for a most unexpected kiss as she clenched her eyes tight. She was well aware that despite her decision to remain friends, her innermost feelings couldn't stop her from doing this. Her heart fluttered as she had missed those soft lips of his, warmth beginning to fester in her body as she then looked up at Marcus to see how he'd respond to that.

"H-Hitomi-chan, come here." Marcus gently whispered as he held both arms open, watching as she was able to form a half smile before instantly wrapping herself around his torso. He then formed a sly grin and hoisted her up earning a playful squeal from Hitomi.

"H-Hey! I'm afraid of heights! Put me down, you ass!" Hitomi whined as both her legs started kicking out as she shook her head like a stubborn child.

"What? I can't hear you from all the way up there!" Marcus teased as he then begun to spin around while keeping Hitomi up in the air, more than pleased to see her happy again. He just couldn't stand to see her so down, especially not over him of all things.

"No...Seriously...I'm gonna..." Hitomi began to groan as she formed a nauseous expression; covering her mouth as Marcus didn't seem to catch what she was hinting at.

(Five minutes later)

"I'm still really sorry..." Hitomi said regretfully as Marcus ran a towel across his face; all while she was looking at him with a mixed look of concern and shame.

"For the seventh time it's alright, Hitomi-chan! I should've expected you to throw up considering how much you've been drinking. Me spinning you about sure as bloody hell didn't help..." Marcus said in a calming hush as he wanted to reassure her that none of this was her fault.

He then wiped off the last of it before tossing the small wash cloth across the room; watching it land near the bathroom door before the back of Hitomi's head found itself resting in his lap. Marcus then looked down to see she was staring straight at him again.

"I couldn't die back there; not while knowing I'd be leaving so much behind if I did: my brothers, you, and everyone in our group. There were plenty of times I wanted to just give up, but I refused to take the easy way out." Marcus began to explain with a grim determination as Hitomi gently nodded as she knew he wasn't done just yet.

"Despite how scared I was I couldn't let fear get the best of me. We barely made it out, and it resulted in someone being left behind. I know you and Frasier won't want to hear this, but I have to go back and save Tadashi-san. Noah and I wouldn't be here if it weren't for him." Marcus finally stated as Hitomi sat up and placed one of her hands over his own.

"I know it isn't easy leaving someone behind, Marcus-kun. Trust me, I was there when everything started going to hell...but I think Frasier-san's right on this one." Hitomi admitted as Marcus gave her a rather surprised look as if she had just spoken in tongues.

"Since when did you two start agreeing on things? Has Hell really frozen over already?" Marcus questioned with a slight grin as Hitomi lightly blushed knowing he was making a joke at her expense. She formed a slight frown only to then playfully punch at his shoulder; earning a soft chuckle from the young Brit.

"Hahaha. I mean, don't get me wrong, we should save him as soon as possible from those bastards, but we can't go in all half-cocked. Going headfirst into a brick wall won't get us anywhere; and I'm not letting you or Noah-kun anywhere near that place again." Hitomi corrected as she made it quite clear she wanted to help Tadashi instead of remaining entirely neutral to the situation as Frasier was. Her voice sounded quite protective near the end though as she then sat up only to cling onto Marcus' hips again; her words a little more coherent this time around.

"Hitomi-chan, you don't need to worry about us. Luckily everything worked out in the end." Marcus said in an attempt to dismiss the focus being set on him and Noah.

"But what if it wasn't alright? What if you never came back? To lose...to lose someone as special as you? I lost my parents a year ago…thank God they aren't around to see things now. My brother was taken from me; most of my friends were eaten alive on the first day of this nightmare alone, and even that cheating asshole Masanori-san would call every now and then to check up on me...I have nothing left now, except for you." Hitomi expressed weakly, her words strained and slightly muffled by the sound of her gently sobbing.

Unable to think up a response for what felt like the first time in his life, Marcus remained completely silent before his arms began to hold Hitomi close. He made a calming hushing noise whilst gently cradling her back and forth. Her grip became even tighter now as she refused to let him go, her breathing becoming heavier with each passing moment.

"Please…stay with me today. We might not be dating, at least not yet, but times like these I think we can make exceptions." Hitomi suddenly said, earning a nod of understanding from Marcus before she pressed into him; feeling his body leaning further back until it collapsed onto the mattress, both now cuddling together in his newly claimed bed. Her head gently rested on his chest to hear his heartbeat as if she needed to be reminded that he was still alive, bringing the drunken officer some momentary (and much needed) peace that allowed her to finally get some rest after the past few restless nights she had spent up worrying about Marcus' fate.

While it might not have been the kind of relationship Marcus was hoping for with the young officer, it was at the very least better than nothing. He just stared at the ceiling for the longest time, constantly contemplating what would become of their group. He thought of Frasier's sudden lack of wanting to fight back despite what this group did to them; he then began to think of Tadashi and the hell he must be enduring right now. That eventually made him ponder on how Rei was handling the knowledge that her father was still alive, but left in the lion's den with a madman. Luckily he was able to drift off into slumber within a few minutes and get a decent amount of sleep that didn't leave him with one eye open at all times for once. Greatly enjoying Hitomi's warmth as she cuddled up even closer to him with both arms protectively wrapped around his aides.

Meanwhile…

Johann stood in the doorway to Rei's room. He just stared at her, seeing his shattered friend hopelessly curled up in a ball on her bed. Soft sounds of weeping could be heard as she couldn't hold the pain back anymore. At first he felt she should be left alone, but the more he tried to pull away the closer he ended up getting to her until he was at the foot of her bed.

"Rei? I know this is so hard for you...B-but do you want to talk about it?" Johann suddenly asked as he reached out for her; his hand gently resting on her shoulder only for the young teen to pull away slowly as she continued to sob over her father, lamenting over what was going to become of him the longer they waited to do something.

"I'm sorry...I-I just need to be alone...please, don't look at me right now..." Rei requested in a soft whimper, sniffling between each pause as Johann felt a painful twisting in his gut seeing one of the more active and optimistic spirits of the group acting so lost and somber.

"Okay, I understand. I'll...I'll be in my own room if you need me." Johann explained as he watched her slightly nodding in understanding; refusing to even look at him as he began to pull back.

Johann slowly closed the door behind him, knowing there wasn't much else he could do right now. The young German bowed his head; angry for not only feeling so helpless, but to see someone as sweet and kind as Rei having to suffer like this. A fire then began to burn in Johann's chest: a sense of strong and newfound determination as he clenched a fist, knowing that no matter what, he'd find a way to rescue Rei's father and return him to her in one piece. For what felt like the first time in years, he felt legitimately ready to do whatever he must in order to restore that optimistic smile he'd become so fond of.

It was then he realized it was best that he allowed himself to rest despite it only being the middle of the day. He felt certain that if any attempt was going to be made to rescue Tadashi from this group, it was going to occur when everyone was well rested. Most likely after sundown they'd launch some kind of rescue mission.

A part of Johann now felt confident enough to confront Frasier himself at this very moment in order to help Rei out. After all, she was the reason Johann himself was still alive; getting their strongest member of the group to lend his aid was the least he could do for her. However, when he approached the eldest Lawson's door, he could hear that the shower was currently running. Johann then let out a sigh; knowing that he'd need to wait a bit longer before attempting to persuade Frasier into helping them out.

Meanwhile…

While everyone else was proceeding to get some much needed rest after such a hectic last couple days, the eldest of the Lawson trio just finished setting up the shower in his room. His dirty clothes remained piled loosely together, crumpled up in a corner of the bathroom as he pulled the glass door aside only to immediately slide it shut behind him. The steam surrounded his figure as he took a moment to adjust to the hot water raining down against his strong back. He then held his hands out, watching the blood and grime slowly but surely wash off into the drain. Still able to freshly retain the carnage filled memories in his mind, an all too good feeling surged throughout him, as if he took physical pleasure in what he did to those four men earlier that day.

"Hm, that's so much better." Frasier hummed under his breath, quite delighted by the warm sensation he now felt before bowing his head to allow the water to catch the back of his hair.

"Enjoy it while you can. Things aren't about to get any easier anytime soon." a thick English accent suddenly announced, the powerful voice echoing throughout the room and alerting Frasier outright.

Without hesitation, the startled Brit opened up the sliding glass door only to meet with an empty bathroom. The sound of the water continuously flowed behind him as the steam began to fill the air. His crystal blue eyes narrowed as he tried to see if someone was hidden amongst the thick mist. However, to noavail, Frasier found that the room proved to be completely empty aside from himself.

'Odd. Guess I was just hearing things.' Frasier thought before he closed the sliding door again.

"Don't tell me you've already lost the plot, boyo! They'll be needing you, don't you know?" another, slightly fainter English accent suddenly questioned; causing Frasier's eyes to immediately shoot wide open when he realized it wasn't a mere coincidence now.

"Who's there?!" Frasier demanded, sliding the door wide open again only to be greeted by no visible presence. Both hands slowly clenched up into fists as if expecting trouble.

"Wait...you responded to my thoughts that last time! How in the world...?" Frasier then said the moment he realized something was horribly wrong here.

"Think he's figured it out yet?" the first voice from earlier questioned, far more booming than the second and certainly more intimidating to the point it felt eerily familiar.

"Don't think he has. Oi! Turn around!" the second one then chanted with loads more vigor in his voice.

Reluctant at first, Frasier swerved around only to be met face to face with both Uncle Mark and Arthur himself; their figures both represented by the steam twisting and turning until detailed representations stood before the gobsmacked youth.

"No...Absolutely no way this is actually happening right now. This is impossible!" Frasier mumbled nervously before coming to the conclusion that he'd simply lost his mind of all things.

"Focus, will you? You have much more important things to be taking care of! Like what you're going to do about this Shido character!" Arthur suddenly snapped, his authoritative voice instantly causing Frasier to stand upright like he was being instructed like the old days.

"For once my brother is absolutely right. You need to help your friends rescue that detective. It's the right thing to do." Mark then chimed in; making it quite clear that Frasier couldn't remain on the sidelines on the matter anymore.

"Rescue the...no, you idiot! He needs to focus on survival above all else! That detective can fend for himself. Frasier's priorities are to ensure the survival of Noah and Marcus at any cost. Everyone else is just an afterthought." Arthur harshly lectured as the two mental projections began to face off. Frasier meanwhile still tried to comprehend the situation, a throbbing sensation pulsing in the back of his head.

"They'd help YOU if you were trapped back in that horrid school. Don't you think it's only fair that you return the gesture?" Mark brought up; Frasier looking down as if feeling shame for being so reluctant to help.

"We don't know that! Besides...they have to be strong and independent. You can't jump in every time they have a problem or else they'll never learn. Leave them." Arthur scorned as he caused Frasier to feel anger rising in his chest as if he was being spoken to like a naive child again.

"Enough! It's bad enough to have you shouting at me like I'm a bloody muppet! And it's just as bad having you haunt me!You're supposed to be dead...and what does all this say about me? You're both just figments of my imagination." Frasier began to respond in an equally harsh tone, watching both Mark and Arthur respectively fall silent only to see the young man backing down the more he realized how insane this was starting to sound the further he went on.

Frasier then slumped against the wall, slowly sliding down until more voices began to echo in his skull before his hands clamped over his ears. He then grit his teeth only to then open his eyes with a fierce determination burning behind them. He reached up to the shower handles and gave it a quick turn, watching as the water suddenly stopped and the images of both Mark and Arthur quickly dissipated with the steam. A low huff echoed shortly after as Frasier could now think more clearly, now uncertain if the stress of the world had just gotten to him or that this was just the beginning of something much worse.

Regardless of the answer, he began to dress himself back up before slamming the bathroom door behind him; hoping to soon forget that unpleasant experience sooner than later. As he walked through his room, he looked out a nearby window to see it was now nearing sunset. The others most likely were awake now and discussing their next move after recuperating the last couple hours. Frasier then glanced over at his dog tags resting on the nightstand beside his bed, letting out a remorseful sigh as conflict tugged hard at his heart.

Meanwhile in the Armory…

"You know this won't be easy, right?" Takashi asked Rei as she was busy loading bullets into a spare magazine, looking up at him with a stern expression that made it quite clear that she was fully aware how dangerous a frontal assault would be.

"I know this is a bad idea, but I don't have a choice. He's my dad, Takashi...what would you do if you were me?" Rei began to acknowledge, with her expression and tone growing more somber with each word.

"I...I really don't know. I guess I'd be no different. Family is family after all." Takashi sighed before falling silent when he began to think about both of his parents, wondering if they were held up in a safe location or had been one of the billions lost to 'Them' in the past two weeks.

"Exactly." Rei commented as she continued to load rounds into the magazine as Noah and Marcus both walked over with MP5SFK carbines strapped along their backs. A faint smile formed across her face when it appeared they intended to lend their aid despite what Frasier said earlier.

"If we go now before he finds out, we can reach the school by midnight." Marcus said in a low hush, shuddering at the idea of having to confront Frasier over the matter, already well aware of his stance and how quick he'd be to keep from getting involved.

"Do we have anything to break through the walls? Maybe some incendiary device or explosives?" Johann questioned as he was cleaning the barrel of the Ak-103 in hand.

"I wouldn't risk it because we might end up burning the school down if the flames spread. Last I checked, a cooked hostage isn't a happy hostage. So unless we run into more undead soldiers, I don't expect to find any explosives any time soon." Noah replied as he shot down the idea of using fire, certain that it would only hinder their efforts.

"Are you guys ready? This won't be easy, and once Frasier finds out what we're doing, he'll be right on our tailcoats." Marcus informed his compatriots; each of them nodding before looking behind Marcus to see it was too late.

"Ready for what?" Frasier's voice suddenly asked out of curiosity as he approached them; stopping dead in his tracks when he realized what everyone was up to.

"Oh bugger..." Marcus groaned when he saw Frasier standing right behind him, watching his big brother looking straight past him and looking each of them up and down to see what was going on.

"Going somewhere?" Frasier inquired as he stepped past Marcus, speaking in an unsettlingly unreadable tone that sent chills down Marcus' spine.

"Don't act like you didn't see this coming! They need our help;Tadashi-san needs our help. We're leaving regardless of what you say!" Marcus responded, somewhat unnerved that Frasier didn't even address him directly, as if he wasn't even there.

"No. Neither you nor Noah will be going anywhere tonight. Don't fight me on this…please." Frasier said in his naturally stern and authoritative tone before hinting at the end that he didn't want any conflict to tear their family apart any more than it already had.

"When are you going to realize we can't do things on our own anymore, Frasier? We need as many allies as possible, and allies stick together!" Noah argued as he boldly stood up to Frasier, earning both a look of admiration and respect from both Marcus and Frasier alike at his display of courage.

"Noah, I understand you want to help every soul you come across, but I-" Frasier began to express before Marcus stepped between the two and cut him off.

"Ah piss off! If you aren't with us, then step aside, you cold-hearted prick!" Marcus interrupted as he glared straight at Frasier who seemed ready to backhand him for such insubordination. Surprisingly enough though; he kept both hands at his sides, for the time being at least.

"Just shut up and listen to what I have to say!" Frasier growled as it was quite clear his patience was being worn thin by Marcus' sharp personal comments; the middle Lawson somewhat taken aback as he'd almost forgotten how scary Frasier could be when genuinely pissed off.

"As I said before, neither of you will be heading out to that wicked school, because I'm going there myself." Frasier announced, at first earning a sarcastic eye roll from Marcus, who was unamused, only for both his younger brothers, as well as the rest of the two groups, to look at him in shock at the sudden news once they realized he was being completely serious.

"You? B-but I thought you were settled on remaining completely neutral on this?" Marcus stammered as he was still trying to process Frasier's choice to lend aid to Takashi's group.

"Yes, well, let's just say I've had some time to…think about all this. I figure when you get right down to it, Tadashi-san is an ace up Shido's sleeve he can use if we ever cross each other again. But if we rescue him, then that ace is gone and he has no advantage left over us." Frasier explained as everyone slowly began to develop expressions of astonishment and gratitude once they realized he was finally agreeing to help.

"Oh my god, thank you, Frasier-san! Thank you so much!" Rei exclaimed as she instinctively stepped up to Frasier and quickly hugged him tight while he simply looked as though he were just waiting for her to get it out of her system so they could get down to business.

"I'm glad you came around, Frasier. Everyone else is waiting down in the lobby for us. You just need to run this by them now." Marcus explained as they all quickly made their way down the stairs, all of them instantly fired up to get started. Once they reached the lobby, just as Marcus said, everyone was sitting restlessly, all of them looking at Frasier with surprise once they saw him standing with the rest of the rescue team.

"I don't think I need to tell you all what's going on, but I should at least confirm everything with you all. I'm going to be joining the rescue mission for Tadashi-san in Marcus and Noah's long as everybody does as I say, we should most likely be able to do this with little to no risk to ourselves." Frasier announced as everyone looked to completely understand his reasoning.

"It's good to see that you're coming after all, but who said you get to be in charge? You have no idea how dangerous a mission like this is, and you go in there with your chest and ego all puffed out like I'm seeing, you're going to get yourself and everyone else killed." Rika suddenly called out as she stood by the dining table with her arms folded over one another; looking at the young man with a rather curious glare that practically challenged him to defend his stance for leadership. Everyone was left speechless that the sniper was actually challenging Frasier at a time like this.

"I'M the best candidate not just for this mission, but for leading this group as a whole. I've been doing crap like this much longer than he has, and I'm actually IN the military! Lawson-kun just had hand-me-down training from daddy!" Rika began to announce in an attempt to gain their vote. Both her and Frasier alike watched as the others seemed to be seriously contemplating who'd be the best choice. Rika then turned only to just barely brace herself when Frasier suddenly took a full swing at her. The pain had been nulled somewhat, but the force was more than enough to send her off both feet and against the floor.

"Where the hell do you get off?! You know nothing of my training! None of you do! You all want proof that I'm the best hope you have? Fine, I'll tell you everything I can. It's not like the consequences even matter anymore." Frasier snarled as his fist remained clenched; breathing hard as Rika slowly pulled herself up and rubbed her sore arm from the unexpected strike, watching as he began to slowly calm down long enough to compose himself and explain himself.

"It all started when I was just a little boy. I was living solely in a military academy so prestigious you couldn't find it no matter how hard you tried. They conditioned me and my fellow students both mentally and physically; teaching us the art of war whenever we weren't being taught how to disable an opponent or how to survive with just the bare essentials. They disassembled us in mind and body only to rebuild us into the perfect killing machines. No remorse, no mercy, no hesitation, just a refined and sharpened bunch of warriors ready and willing to do whatever it took to win. Because of it, every time I'm in a dangerous situation, it's almost like my body is on autopilot, as if I'm acting through sheer muscle-memory from all those years of training alone. When I was finally ten years old, two major events took place that changed everything for me.

"The first was that I was ready to use to this advanced virtual reality combat simulator, or A.V.R.C.S. for short. It was able to place the user into a perfect replica of their choosing and simulate combat scenarios we'd be expected to encounter out in the field. Just imagine it: an entire battalion from the first generation alone would be able to outclass an entire army of regulars; as well as hold more combat experience than most of the veterans in the field, all while being in the prime of their lives. But most important of all was that we were all unbendingly loyal; to both our overseers and our country.

"Run after run, I was forged into the perfect soldier; to the point where their orders were simply my pleasure. No matter how many times I'd go in, I'd always be left craving more. For the longest time, all I knew was to follow orders. Nothing, not even my fellow soldiers, stood in the way of the mission and my victories. I was beyond determined to prove to my father and the overseers that I was the best. I will admit right now, it feels pretty damn good being who I am at times like these.

"The second event that took place was when I was introduced to Noah and Marcus in our home in Berkshire for the first time in my life. Apparently, the overseers and psychiatrists decided it was best that we were given exposure towards the very country we were being trained to defend and protect; to know just what we were fighting for every time we jumped back into the A.V.R.C.S.

"I never was able to connect to my fellow recruits because we were rarely allowed to interact outside of class and were sent straight to our rooms when we weren't training or studying. Noah and Marcus though? After we finally first met, something about them stuck to me to the point I knew I couldn't let anything happen to them. Maybe it was what you call love, maybe it was just my self-assigned duty forged from my innermost pride; but whatever it was, I couldn't refute it no matter how I truly felt about them. Between my training, I was able to bond with them for a solid five years, making up for lost time and creating fond new memories, only to then be sent here for something I did when walking them home from their school one day.

"Three years later we were all finally reunited, and you all know where the story goes from there. Just when I thought things might be changing for the better, I'm immediately thrown back into the fray. It never ends. Not for me. Not ever." Frasier explained in thorough detail, his voice progressively became more emotional the further he went on. All was dead silent as there wasn't a single person in the room that wasn't staring at him in awe after hearing all this. While Alice didn't understand most of what he was saying, the way he spoke made it quite clear to her that he was sad deep down. Frasier just glared at them now, knowing this would be their reaction to him and that it was ultimately a mistake to expose the truth.

"Are you happy now? You got me to reveal my personal baggage so now I'll probably be trialed and court marshaled for treason when they find out what I just told you all! This was all supposed to be top secret; one of the biggest things they hammered into our heads in that place; that I-" Frasier began to rant, so certain that his life would be ended for revealing the truth, only to be cut off when Noah approached him. Both his narrow arms wrapped around Frasier's sides as he practically clung to his older brother out of sheer affection and approval; leaving the child soldier entirely speechless for all to bear witness.

"Enough. You've said more than we could've ever expected from you. It's okay, Frasier." Noah gently hushed as Frasier had no idea how to respond to this; stifling a tear as he had to resist giving into the emotional overflow he was experiencing right now.

"So this is why you would never tell us, no matter how often we'd ask nor beg? Holy shit...worst of all, is I actually believe every word of it. I think I actually pity you now." Marcus muttered as he looked at his older brother, completely astonished at such a revelation; finally understanding the shadier aspects to Frasier he'd never understood prior to this day.

"Father always warned me that whatever I could recall of that wretched place, I must under any circumstance keep it to myself. Hell, there have been times I wanted to tell someone, to tell you, but I never could bring myself to let it out for some reason until now." Frasier gently sighed as he seemed somewhat relieved to be able to admit his past to them; to realize that whatever source it was that was able to clench his heart in fear was no longer was there.

"This just explains so much. The distant attitude, the sociopathic tendencies, the lack of basic human social skills...do you need a hug?" Shizuka suddenly offered as she spoke in her usual lofty-headed tone. Her voice however hinted at a rather maternal response now; wanting to nurture and ease Frasier's inner pain to the best of her abilities.

"Please don't; it's bad enough I just revealed this to a bunch of civilians. I don't need a hug because I never knew my own mother. I just need to get over this on my own terms, and right now this rescue operation seems like a good distraction to me." Frasier responded; shaking his head as Shizuka simply nodded in understanding, knowing that she had to let him come to her instead for help with such a delicate matter.

"Virtual reality, huh? That must've taken some time getting used to." Kohta noted as his knees were still shaking after hearing such an unexpected tale; uncertain whether to be excited and ask more questions or to be absolutely wary of Frasier more than one would think possible.

"Getting used to it wasn't the issue. The issue was it worked far too well. Every time we'd go into that thing, getting hooked up into it would force us into unconsciousness for a few minutes; total sensory deprivation for full integration. After the first couple of times, it became impossible for us to distinguish what was reality and what was the A.C.V.R.S. You'd go to sleep only to wake up in the middle of a field being barked orders from your CO. It made some of us very paranoid and anxious, but I learned how to tell by feeling the side of my head every time I woke up. If there was a helmet buckle on the side of my head, it was the simulator; and if not, I could go about my day in peace. I still sometimes feel this compulsory need to check sometimes though, despite it being well over six years since I last entered that horrid machine." Frasier replied as he looked down at the table before him; struggling to keep focused on the group as he began to reminisce over the sudden simulations they'd throw at him. He quickly snapped back into reality though when Alice walked over to him.

"So what about your doggy? Was she there?" Alice then asked,which earned a rather surprised look from both Noah and Marcus alike.

"Dog? What dog?" Noah asked as he was completely baffled at the idea of them ever owning a pet before.

"Wait, hold it. Father allowed you to have a dog? After all those years we've been trying to convince him of letting us have one,you're telling me he let you have one?!" Marcus questioned, speaking out of curiosity with a slightly annoyed undertone.

"Yes, only on the academy grounds though. She was a Labrador with the most beautiful black coat of fur you'd ever see, her name was Lulu. She had the dopiest look every time she'd look up at me with those soft hazel eyes. She was quite a handful, but she was my only true source of companionship before I finally was introduced to you two. Whenever I'd come back from the simulator, she would be eagerly awaiting my return and acting like it had been weeks since I had last seen her; that flat, long tongue always trying to wash my scuffs and scraps like she was my damn caretaker or something. She probably doesn't have much time left after all these years, but I'm hoping I can see her one last time before she passes on. I think it was when father took her away, claiming she was a distraction for me, that my reaction led to the overseers advising him in letting me see you two to dull my sorrow. To replace the void her absence had created." Frasier answered as he then looked over to Saeko, who was just staring at him like he was a completely different person. An uneasy feeling rose in his gut as it was hard to say if this was for better or for worse.

"Wait, wouldn't that make Marcus-kun eight years old and Noah-kun six by the time you actually met them? How is that possible?" Hitomi suddenly inquired as she did the math only to find it quite suspicious how little they'd actually known each other.

"Actually, we were well aware of his existence before we actually met. Father would talk about him sometimes over the phone to someone, and when we asked why we never saw Frasier at home, we were told he was just away at a boarding school. Guess we now know how true that was." Marcus answered as he then fell silent in thought, pondering as to what else could've possibly been a lie that they'd bought into for so long.

"We don't know who our mother is either. We've never even seen a picture of her to be honest. Father was quite a secretive person, almost like he made it a goal to keep us all in the dark whenever he could. I just wonder what will happen now." Frasier then mentioned; all three Lawson brothers seeming to be caught in a curious trance as they tried to imagine what kind of woman he of all people would have chosen as a partner.

"Bollocks to the past is what I say. We focus on the here and now." Marcus then announced as he was able to quickly dismiss the severe lack of maternal nurturing faster than his brothers could; earning a respective nod from the two of them, as well as half a smile from Frasier.

"So what made you REALLY change your mind in the end about facing Shido's group?" Saeko then questioned as she looked at Frasier with a rather impressed smile that helped put him at ease; secretly hoping to God that her opinion of him had not changed in the slightest. He felt immense relief when it seemed that if anything, she was even more impressed with him for finally speaking up about his former life.

"As a matter of fact, nothing has changed about my choice essentially. I could bore you all with the strategical reasoning, but my biggest reason is much simpler. I would've gladly remained neutral, but then I recalled how that snake in the grass broke the first rule of this world: Don't fuck with the Lawson's!" Frasier corrected in a low grunt, almost trying to intentionally make it sound like he wasn't doing this out of sympathy or any pity in his heart for Rei's plight. Somewhat shocked she could see through his first explanation earlier that made him wonder what other bluffs this girl could call him out on.

"Yeah, that's more like it! So what's your plan then?" Marcus asked eagerly; proud of Frasier for standing with the rest of them when they needed him most.

"I will go with a small infiltration team. We'll use the element of surprise and keep it quiet for as long as possible." Frasier answered as he then pulled up a map of the area only to start scribbling on it, drawing a large red circle where Fujimi Academy should've been.

"Why don't we all just go and storm the place? It shouldn't be hard if we have your family here to back us up!" Takashi questioned, uncertain why Frasier wasn't intending on doing what he thought soldiers did best.

"Take a history note from Hannibal, Takashi-san. We'd be exposed if we took all the able-bodied to attack Shido head on." Frasier said, shaking his head at such a reckless suggestion.

"Who?" Takashi asked as he instinctively scratched the back of his head in confusion.

"You're wasting your time if you think he'd know anything historical, Frasier-san. Allow me to enlighten your limited mind though for future reference." Saya interjected out of irritation as Takashi quickly shot her a frown in response before Saya began to speak up again.

"During the second Punic War, Hannibal was attacking the Roman countryside relentlessly, so the Romans countered this by attacking his home base in Africa; forcing him to retreat, and it ultimately brought Carthage to its knees when he lost the Battle of Zama." Saya explained as if she were now a history buff for the group, Marcus having to partially keep Noah from eagerly chiming in as Miku giggled at how eager her new found love was acting.

"I'm still not really following what this has to do with us?" Takashi said in attempt to keep up, only to ultimately fail in seeing the point in the quick history lesson.

"Oh for the love of...he's saying we need to be ready in case Shido launches a surprise attack of his own while most of our group is away! They certainly seem to have the numbers to do such a thing after all." Saya snapped before slowly recoiling back, grumbling at how much of a possibility that could actually play out for them were they to underestimate this new threat.

"Enough! Please...so who will be going then?" Rei suddenly intervened, her voice shaking as it was all-too clear the young woman was at her wits end with waiting around for someone to do something.

"My brothers will remain here, that's nonnegotiable. The rest are volunteers at this point." Frasier replied as he watched practically everyone standing at the ready, as if intending to undergo the rescue mission with him.

"Hmm...Let's see. Takashi-san, you've been through enough, so you will stay behind. Noah and Marcus of course will remain here. No way in hell I'd allow Miku anywhere near this delicate operation. Takagi-san and Marikawa-sensei aren't going to be of any combat value to me...I wouldn't mind bringing Minami-san or Johann with me, but I want a strong security force to remain at the hotel, so you two will take up sentry duty. Hitomi-san knows how to handle a gun, so you're in. Hirano-san certainly has an aptitude with firearms, so he's definitely worth bringing along. Finally, there's you, Saeko-san. Your close quarters skills are invaluable, and I'd be honored to have you by my side while we're out there." Frasier answered as he watched everyone he addressed accepting their position with understanding. Saeko especially was taken aback by the fact he was suggesting she come along, half-expecting an argument to let her come along with him.

"Hold on! I'd like to request that you swap my job with Hirano-san. I know he'd be a greater shot than me up on that rooftop anyway from what I've seen. Please, allow me to come with you." Johann suddenly piped in; catching the attention of both Rei and Frasier instantly, both surprised by how lively he was now in contrast to the past couple of days.

"Hmm, I suppose Hirano-san wouldn't hold up as well in a close quarters encounter. Very well, you can come with us instead." Frasier agreed after giving it some thought; Johann smiling to himself as Kohta and Saya both seemed to let out a silent sigh of relief of their own for keeping the chubby gun lover back where it was considerably safer.

"What about me and my mom? Where do we stand in your plan?" Rei then intervened as she was anxious to hear what Frasier had in mind for her and Kiriko in his little master anxiousness and adrenaline from knowing they were finally going to do something about her father pretty much had the young woman shaking, just waiting for the word to move out.

"Here I'm afraid. I'm sorry." Frasier answered before his voice began to sound genuinely sympathetic, not that it could exactly quell Rei's brewing anger at his choice to hold her back at the hotel though.

"What? You're not allowing us to go neither? How the hell can you even suggest such a thing?!" Rei protested angrily as she couldn't believe she wasn't even being given the chance to help save her own family.

"Because you and your mother are too close to the target. If something goes wrong during the extraction, your emotions will most likely cloud your better judgement. For his sake and ours, I need you two to remain here and hold the fort down, alright?" Frasier calmly explained as Rei could already see his point given her initial reaction for being denied to go; letting out a heavy sigh before nodding.

"Only if you promise me that you'll bring my dad back in one piece." Rei then demanded as Frasier nodded in understanding,only to look confused when she held up a pinky finger; forcing him to wrap his around hers before they shook on it.

"So how much longer until you head out?" Kiriko anxiously asked as the wait was finally starting to affect her as well.

"Give us some time to prepare. We'll head out around midnight. We need to reach him around dawn." Frasier answered as the others nodded in agreement before they began to speak amongst one another, leaving the rescue team to prepare for the daunting task set out before them.

"Hey, Frasier-san, I need to talk to you about something." Takashi suddenly announced in a surprisingly assertive voice, motioning Frasier to follow him away from the others. Both leaders now stood isolated from the rest of the group.

"What's wrong now? If it's about you not going, I can't risk it. You've been through enough as it is, and if you blackout on us in the middle of a fight, it's going to be a major hindrance." Frasier asked before concluding that Takashi also wanted to go with them on the rescue mission.

"It's not that. I'm just concerned about you taking Saeko-chan with you. I can tell she's very determined to help Rei, and I doubt either of us can convince her to stay. So I need you to promise me that no matter what happens, you'll protect her." Takashi explained as it was quite clear he was deeply concerned for her safety despite how capable she was whenever trouble was afoot.

"I understand entirely. You have my word as a man and a soldier: Saeko Busujima won't be harmed no matter what." Frasier vowed as he was just as serious now, keeping his own personal feelings locked up as he shook Takashi's hand. The two then just nodded before taking off to get ready themselves for what was to come next.

Several hours later

Z-Day+17

The otherwise quiet night was coming to an end with dawn poised to take its place as Frasier lead the handpicked rescue team through the sewers. The smell was unlike anything they'd encountered before; while walking corpses were bad on their own level, something about this place jumped into an entirely separate league. Luckily the path they took involved little water and was mostly just wandering on a clear path. Rats and other critters could be heard scurrying around the maze of seemingly endless passages as the four survivors kept the map close at hand; knowing that they could wind way off course should they take a single wrong turn.

"Here it is. If anyone wants to back out, this is your last chance." Frasier announced as he stopped before a ladder that lead straight up into the unknown; looking on as Saeko, Hitomi, and Johann stood there with looks of unwavering determination. He couldn't help but feel relieved knowing that his choice in a team had not been wasted.

"We're with you all the way, Frasier-kun. We know you'll lead us to victory." Saeko said calmly, her words filled with trust, which had caused Frasier to feel warmth inside his chest as she seemed so confident in his abilities.

"Yeah, and besides, we didn't just travel through a filthy sewer to back down now." Hitomi added as she nodded in agreement, smiling while still silently feeling surprised that she and the group's now official leader were actually finally able to get along at all.

"So how are we doing this?" Johann asked; hoping that there would be some restraint here, considering how Shido's group outnumbered them 8 to 1 at this point.

"We avoid contact for as long as possible. Tadashi-san will most likely be unable to fight, so we want to get him back here as soon as possible. Once we reach the sewers, we should be in the clear. If we're detected then try to subdue them quietly, but if they're armed and draw on us, then we'll have no choice but to go loud." Frasier answered calmly as he watched Johann nod in understanding before checking his rifle one more time, turning the safety off as if expecting trouble the moment they went topside.

"Alright, let's go. All of you stay behind me. Be my shadow." Frasier whispered as the others climbed up the ladder one by one, watching as he carefully pushed up on the manhole cover to peek just in case they weren't alone; aiming his pistol around as if expecting someone to be waiting for them.

"All clear." the young leader whispered softly as all he was met with was a long dark hallway filled with pipes running along the walls; a massive boiler system running at the far end of the massive expanse of a room. They all felt intense warmth the instant they climbed out.

"Man, this place is gonna have us in a sweat if we don't move it." Hitomi commented as she already felt uncomfortable in her police uniform in this humidity; forcing her to quickly pull up the sleeves as they began to head for the nearest exit.

"Agreed, but at least we're in the right place." Saeko said before motioning towards a sign that explained to all personnel down here that students were strictly forbidden and that only the janitorial staff were allowed down in this section of the school.

"Remember, we don't have any silencers on our weapons, so once somebody takes a shot, this place is going to be on full alert." Frasier whispered as he didn't even want to take a chance on being heard despite how loud the boiler and pipes were being right now.

He gently turned the doorknob to the only exit. With the slightest push, the door slowly creaked open as he peered through the crack. Luckily the first half of the area he could see was clear; feeling his heart throbbing in anticipation, he then turned his head around only to be met with nothing but an empty hallway. Without saying a word, he made a hand gesture that motioned everyone else to move forward right behind him. Hitomi then closed the door behind them quietly, just in case someone were to walk by.

"So where do we even begin? This place wasn't exactly ever on the small side. Did Noah or Marcus ever tell you where they kept Tadashi-san?" Johann whispered to Frasier as they all felt themselves cooling off now that they were out of the boiler room; but still feeling nervous chills that they would run into trouble at any second.

"They mentioned that he was in a supply room that used to house dangerous cleaning chemicals and that it was downstairs. I think they mentioned that the cage they'd been kept in was brought in at a later time, according to what Tadashi-san had told them." Frasier responded in a low hush as he peered over a window to see several figures wandering outside. As much as it would've pleased him to quickly pick off the unaware group, he remembered what his main objective was and how vastly outnumbered they would still be.

With that said, they spared no time searching door to door for a stairway leading to the former storage room; keeping an eye out for any signs that could lead them to it, all while moving in the shadows to avoid being seen through the windows by anyone outside that might've looked over at the worst possible time. It was a strange feeling being back in the halls of Fujimi Academy for Johann, Frasier and Saeko. They could now only recall these halls and classrooms as a slaughtering ground; with entire droves of students and teachers alike being torn apart by 'Them'. All the blood that had been spilled back then was almost nonexistent now, as it was quite clear Shido's group went to great lengths to clean it up and make the school all the more of a livable place.

Every time a group or series of voices could be heard just outside, they'd all freeze in place; their hearts racing as it felt like they were trapped on all sides. Luckily, most of Shido's group was still fast asleep, so it was only small patrols of what they could only assume were lookouts.

"Here; this is the last door on this level we've yet to check." Hitomi muttered under her breath as she watched Frasier draw his combat knife carefully before cautiously pushing the door open. Luckily the school was well maintained to the point even the doors didn't creak when opened. He quickly scanned the room only to let out a disappointed sigh when there wasn't any sign of life to be found at the bottom of the stairs.

"Shit, this looks like the room, but nobody is here. I guess they moved him somewhere else." Frasier grumbled as he looked at the iron bars of the small cage sitting in the corner; imagining his little brothers being stuck behind them. A surge of contempt and hatred began surging through him before he took a deep breath to maintain composure. He then noticed a plastic container filled with what looked like chlorine for the school's indoor swimming pool. In case it could come in handy, he slipped the sizable container into his backpack before zipping it up for future use.

"We'll have to check around then. Hopefully we aren't too late." Saeko said, trying her best to remain optimistic despite the possibility that Shido had lost his patience and killed Tadashi long before they got here.

"Where should we go from here? This place isn't exactly compact and time isn't on our side." Johann mentioned as he looked over to the others to see what they were thinking.

"Could we split up? It would allow us to cover more ground." Hitomi suggested only for Frasier to immediately start shaking his head in response.

"No, if we split up, then when someone runs into trouble, they'll be on their own. We just need to pick up the pace is all." Frasier explained before they all nodded in agreement and followed him back out into the vacant hallway.

Having cleared out the southern wing of the school; it left them with just two more to search through. They began to crouch down as they crept along the intersecting bridges that could take them in almost any direction they wanted to go. While they did feel exposed, it was still relatively dark outside, giving them some cover under the shroud of night.

One wing had lights on still and the occasional figure could be seen moving around in the windows. Who they were remained to be seen; but nevertheless, the four survivors now felt like they were wandering into a hornet's nest where one false move would rattle the entire compound. They stopped before deciding whether to search the eastern wing or the one to the west.

"Which one do you guys think we should we take?" Frasier whispered as he began to peer over the bridge and keep lookout for any signs of Shido's people that might've been nearby.

"Most of them should still be sleeping at this time, so the wing with lights on is probably where they're keeping Tadashi-san. They're most likely interrogating him for any details on where Noah-kun and Marcus-kun went." Saeko concluded as she pointed towards the eastern wing of the school.

"That sounds about right. So I take it we just keep low as before or should we try and act casual?" Hitomi agreed as she then suggested they try to just walk in; considering it was possible that they wouldn't be recognized right off the bat if they didn't stand out.

"Hmm, Johann and I won't blend in as well, but you two certainly could. Do you think the risk is really worth it though?" Frasier brought up before he questioned the officer's faith in her own plan.

"It's worth a shot. It's a hell of a lot faster than tip-toeing around. How much time do we even have before the sun comes up?" Hitomi asked as she instinctively looked towards the Eastern sky, nervous that the sun would start coming up right then.

"Not long. Hmm. Fine, we'll try your plan then. Johann and I will just hang close behind you two." Frasier answered only to reluctantly agree with Hitomi as her logic was somewhat had to argue with.

"Hold on, that's not a good idea. Yes, the three of you wouldn't be recognized, but don't forget, my group has run into Shido more than once before, and if he has this many people on his side, I can guarantee he's described us for them to keep a lookout. They'd be able to recognize me in an instant." Saeko suddenly piped in, instantly causing everyone to freeze up before heading for the east wing.

"Shit, you're right. Okay, looks like going about it like we already have is the only option. We've wasted enough time as it is, we have to move now." Frasier ordered as they all quietly snuck to the door leading into the east wing, carefully peeking through the sliver of a crack in the door frame for any sign of life.

Once they were sure there was no risk of being spotted, the four quietly stepped in and shut the door silently before heading for a nearby stairwell, ready to start combing through the building as carefully as possible for any sign of Tadashi.

Several minutes later…

"Ask him again. If he refuses, use the pliers or something." a thin man wearing green rubber gloves said as he crossed both arms while looking at Tadashi's figure slumped over in the chair.

"The pliers?" a second young man questioned, his beady green eyes staring at the nearby table full of tools. A patch of blood pooled underneath all of them; indicating they'd already seen their fair share of use.

"Yeah, it's what that new guy Shido let in suggested before taking off to go find Teru's sorry missing ass. Tatsuya I think his name was?" the first survivor responded before recalling the sadistic hulking man who'd almost instantly become one of Shido's most feared enforcers.

"That guy freaks me the hell out." the second man replied as he handed the pliers over as if to inspect them first; watching the first man messing with it only to hand it straight back and give him an irked look.

"What do you expect? He's clearly Yakuza for starters; never mind the fact there's a look in his eyes which says he's clearly killed another man. And I'm talking WAY before all THIS shit started." the first man replied as he then shuddered at the thought of being that man's enemy.

"Well at least he's on our side, right? Right?" the second man holding the pliers questioned as he tried to remain somewhat optimistic about their situation.

"Just so long as we stay on his good side, he should be content. We've got a pretty good deal going on after all. Just wait until we get those bastards that escaped. I hear it's a whole group of them somewhere west, or was it east?" the first survivor remarked before bringing up both Takashi and Frasier's groups.

"Yeah, especially their women! I hear Shido-sama plans to do a raffle and let the lucky winners have first go at them." the second survivor said with an all too wicked delight at the idea of winning one of those tickets.

"Yeah! All the more reason to-what the?" the man with green gloves began to say when suddenly a new shadow blocked their light; prompting both of them to turn only to be met with Frasier's deathly cold glare.

"Pathetic." Frasier mumbled under his breath before upper-cutting the second man directly beneath the jaw; watching as his head jolted straight up, only for the enraged Brit to grasp the exposed throat and body slam the survivor into a nearby locker.

"Son of a bitch!" the first survivor cursed as he grabbed a scalpel from the table and rushed in to help his friend, only to catch a sudden glimpse of a young woman with violet hair dashing between the two of them.

Before he could react, Saeko's hands and wrists slightly twisted only for a glimpse of her steel blade to be seen. A horrified gasp escaped the man as he watched helplessly when one of his arms came clean off from a single slice by the well-crafted katana. Any opportunity to scream in agonizing pain and alerting anyone within earshot was cut short when Johann swiftly moved in to finish the job; bringing one of the machetes straight down into the disarmed man's skull. Saeko shot him a smile that showed her approval before they both turned to Frasier viciously pounding away at the second survivor before finishing it by stomping down on his throat. A gurgling sound was all that could be heard for a few heart-clenching moments before the man finally stopped twitching and laid motionless, choking on his own blood thanks to his crushed throat.

'Fucking scum…nobody will harm her while I still breathe.'Frasier practically shouted in the innermost parts of his subconscious before looking back to see his team was awaiting a response from him.

"Uh, good work. Let's see if the target is still breathing." Frasier said in an attempt to somewhat congratulate them before Hitomi walked over towards the other side of the room where the badly beaten figure sat.

"Holy shit, it's him alright. It looks like they really did a number on him though…bastards." Hitomi commented as she began to examine the extent of Tadashi's wounds. His face was covered in thick, purple bruises and dark red welts. Lacerations could be seen running along his arms and shoulders while his chest hardly was able to move to draw another breath.

Without sparing any time, both Hitomi and Saeko began to unfasten the leather belts being used to restrain Tadashi in place. Deep marks had been imprinted into his wrists and ankles where the belts had been used. Clearly whoever had him tied down knew what they were doing and had practice in this department. Johann checked the entrance to the room to ensure the coast was clear while Frasier stood before Tadashi, who began to wearily lift his head up to see what was happening now.

"You couldn't...have arrived at a better time. I suppose...Noah-san sent you then?" Tadashi said as he let out a soft sigh of relief when he realized he was still alive and what looked like help had finally arrived; pausing in between gasps for air as it was quite clear he had endured more than met the eye, watching as the largest member of the small team offered his hand before pulling Tadashi up onto his feet, stumbling forward a bit before catching himself and attempting to balance.

"Indeed. Can you walk?" Frasier bluntly answered as he kept things short, wanting nothing less than to leave this wretched place as soon as possible.

"Sort of…they really did a number on my leg though. I don't suppose you have an exit strategy that doesn't include running for the front gates?" Tadashi asked curiously as they began to head back out into the hallways with him following close behind.

"Yes, we came in through the sewers and we'll use them to get away quietly. We won't even need to fire a shot if we can backtrack fast enough." Frasier answered; somewhat proud of how they were able to get in without raising any suspicion whatsoever. Johann paused for a moment as he looked over Tadashi only to shake his head.

"Uhh, Frasier? I don't think that will work. Look at all those open wounds and gashes." Johann quietly announced as everyone stopped in their tracks to reexamine Tadashi long enough to see his multiple wounds openly displayed for anyone to see.

"Johann's absolutely right. He'd be exposed to all kinds of things down there. It's too risky to bring Tadashi-san through the sewers without infecting him with God knows what." Hitomi wholeheartedly agreed as they all just stood there for a moment to determine how they could possibly get out now without being spotted.

"Hmm, guess its plan B then. We'll just have to try and go around the back to hop the fence." Frasier grumbled out of annoyance at the unforeseen wrench in their original plan before coming up with a new one on the spot.

"That won't work. It's too high so someone would end up being left behind. It's what happened with me." Tadashi disagreed as he warned the young Brit of the fatal flaw in that idea, knowing they'd be back to square one if they left someone behind.

"Then I'll stay behind and go through the sewers alone. So long as you make it over the fence, it shouldn't be an issue." Frasier volunteered as the others looked at him in complete surprise at the unexpected proposition.

"Frasier-kun, is this really what you want? If they spot us, it might be impossible for you to get back to the sewer entrance. What if they capture you?" Hitomi questioned as she was uncertain if this was really a good idea to follow through with. Knowing he'd be all on his own without any backup didn't sit well with her in the slightest.

"Then I'm an acceptable casualty. Our mission is to rescue Tadashi-san. Don't worry about me anyways; I am the toughest one of the bunch after all." Frasier expressed softly with no hint of humor in his voice. Both Johann and Hitomi were reluctant to agree, but soon nodded in acknowledgment. Saeko meanwhile just bowed her head in silence, hating how quick he would be willing to sacrifice himself. She wanted to tell him to reconsider his plan, yet she knew he'd just dismiss her concerns.

"Saeko-san? Are you alright?" Frasier suddenly asked as she looked up at him surprised when he placed a hand on her shoulder to make sure she was alright.

"Wha-? Y-Yeah I'm fine! Are you really sure that you want to stay behind? Perhaps I should stay behind as well so you won't be alone?" Saeko answered abruptly, as if genuinely caught off guard before she suggested that he don't try to escape alone.

"Tadashi-san will need as much protection as possible once he's over that fence. 'They' might show up, and I want you to be there should they need the backup." Frasier denied as he was certain that they'd need her far more than he would.

"I actually agree with her. Johann-san and I can handle ourselves just fine. I think she should stay with you." Hitomi suddenly chimed back as they walked down the halls towards the southern wing of the school they originally entered from.

"I personally operate better on my own...but I can see you're hell bent on going through with this, so I won't deny your assistance, Saeko-san." Frasier sighed before accepting that she was clearly not going to drop the matter; uncertain why she was so eager to stay at his side despite the great danger it would put her in. None of them noticed the rather warm, delighted smile the young samurai formed when he finally gave in to accepting her help.

Soon they came across the twin doors that would allow them to have a straight shot out to the rear walls that Noah, Marcus, and Miku had used during their grand escape. Over the course of time they'd spent there, it was no longer pitch black; the darkness slowly giving way to a faint light blue hue as the sun would be rising any minute now.

"Still think we can make it out while remaining unseen? It would've been easier to do this at night." Johann softly murmured to Frasier as it was becoming quite easy now to spot the people wandering around on the walls and the occasional patrol that would wander by. Of course if they could see the patrols, then the patrols could just as easily see them too.

"It's possible. Notice the people on the wall? They will be weary from last night, and those coming to replace them will still be waking up. In the midst of transfer is when we make our move." Frasier answered as he finally explained as to why he was so eager to undergo this operation around the crack of dawn. The others quickly took notice at the observation; hoping deep down that his gambit would pay off.

'Such a clever plan! He's really focused and in the zone now. I've never seen him so determined, not like this anyway. It's really something else.' Saeko thought to herself in the back of her mind; her eyes shifting to look at Frasier, giving him a rather curious look as she couldn't help but find his tactical side fascinating.

Before they could react, the doors suddenly began to swing open as the chatter of several people suddenly caught the group off guard. Luckily the doors were pushed towards them, allowing them to hide behind it as several figures passed by completely unaware of them for now. All of them felt their hearts racing at maximum tempo while they could do nothing but pray that the people entering the wing didn't turn around.

"Go, go." Frasier softly hissed as he motioned them to start moving out before the doors closed behind them; walking out into the open with the wall in sight. It hadn't even been thirty seconds before two survivors standing on the wall caught notice of them; instantly feeling something was off by the fact they had Tadashi with them.

"Hey! What are you guys doing down there?" a female voice called out as the other survivor jumped down to come and check out the situation.

"Steady." Frasier softly whispered to Hitomi as she kept her hand close to her revolver, ready to draw should things go any further south.

"Four to our six o'clock." Johann whispered after turning his head to see that as the doors closed, the people that just entered the south wing were coming back to investigate the situation. He quickly held Tadashi upright as it was quite clear he might need to let him go of he wanted to properly use the rifle he brought along.

"Are you deaf? What are you people doing? Wait a minute...you're not one of us!" the second female on guard duty questioned in a more frustrated growl before suddenly realizing these people before her were all strangers.

"Now!" Frasier barked as Hitomi drew her revolver and fired several shots into the approaching guard, most of them hitting their mark and dropping the young woman outright as Frasier turned around to fire an automatic burst at the patrol approaching from behind.

All of them immediately bolted for cover the moment two of their own we're mercilessly mowed down, giving the rescue team enough time to seal the doors shut behind them and take off running to hopefully evade the impending force they'd just awoken. Meanwhile, the one left on the wall leapt for cover. A loud whistle could be heard blowing as if signaling for help despite the fact the gunshots alone would've been enough to wake up the entire school.

"So much for stealth! Hurry! Behind those bushes!" Johann announced as he and Frasier both helped carry Tadashi; all five survivors vaulting over a low hedgerow of bushes that split the asphalt from the grassy hill that descended down to the parking lot, giving them temporary cover and a moment to catch their breath as Shido's group tried to figure out what was happening.

"Oh this will never do! These bushes won't protect us from squat! Quickly, move the VIP somewhere more defendable." Frasier groaned as he shook his head in disapproval at their current position.

"But what if they lost sight of us? We can just hide and move at the first opportunity." Johann suggested as the others seemed to be rather fond of that idea instead of directly fighting, given their limited resources and no longer having the element of surprise.

Not even a single second passed by though, as a single shot suddenly went off, the round whizzing through one of the shrubs they were hiding behind.

"Over there! Behind the hedges!" a voice shouted before Frasier turned to give Johann a smug smirk that practically screamed 'I told you so' only to be cut short when more rounds started flying.

"Hit the deck! Keep your heads down and start crawling! We'll cover you guys!" Frasier began to order to his team, motioning them towards the nearby parking lot while he and Johann put their firearm training to some good use.

Somewhat pleased to be able to take the fight to Shido's cult, Frasier unholstered the Sig SG 550 from his back before firing several suppressive bursts of NATO 5.56mm rounds at the nearest shooters; watching as the recipients naturally ducked down to avoid being hit, scurrying into cover behind benches and tables students once would've use to eat lunch or study after school hours. The hot lead bounced and danced around them as Johann began to use the Ak-103 he brought with him, making sure to suppress those that would try and flank Frasier or at the very least target him.

"How many smoke grenades did we bring?" Johann suddenly asked as he realized that despite their fierce counter-attack, it wouldn't be enough to hold back the defenders if they were to all push up at once. Luckily they didn't realize that just yet and their inexperience with someone who could fight back clearly showed.

"Looks like two. We couldn't make much else in such short notice. Luckily my little brother is a pro when it comes to this kind of ingenuity. " Frasier answered as he instantly remember Noah's homemade smoke grenades in his backpack.

"Alright. We're going to move further down by those cars over there. Let the smoke grenades provide us some cover before we head out into the open. Ready? Go! Go! Go!" Frasier began to instruct to his team as he peered over the hedge only to instantly duck again, observing how nervous their attackers were in anticipation after he lobbed the canister overhead and into the middle of the parking lot. They all five instantly rushed out the moment a white fog began to spew out of the small canister.

Without hesitation they darted through the thick smokescreen while trying their best to help Tadashi make it through unscathed. Luckily the lack of coordination from Shido's group left them reloading at roughly the same time, giving the rescue team enough of a gap to hunker down in a far more defensible location.

"This is still really bad. There's so many of them...I don't think we brought enough ammo to last another firefight with these guys." Hitomi stated concernedly as she began to quickly sort around in Frasier's pack for any extra ammo clips she could find for the others to use as well as more Special .38 bullets to use in her police revolver.

"So that's it? We're just screwed altogether now?" Johann questioned as a part of him was certain there had to be some way out of this mess; knowing the smoke from that grenade wouldn't last them forever.

"We aren't entirely boned yet. They're most likely going to be expecting us to stick together now, but if I can distract the majority of the compound; that will leave a large enough window of opportunity for the rest of you to escape." Frasier began to theorize; earning instant disapproval from everyone else, especially Saeko.

"You can't be serious. What will you do then when we are gone?" Saeko protested as she already knew she didn't like the position this was going to leave him in.

"I'll cross that bridge when I get to it. Just do as I say and move it, soldier. This is what I was born to do. This is what I was trained to do. This is all I CAN do!" Frasier said, his initial lack of confidence earning looks of disbelief from everyone else, including Tadashi. However, they didn't exactly have the luxury or time to disagree with him and form a better thought-out plan.

"Do what you must, but just know I'll never forgive you if you don't come back to me." Saeko reluctantly gave in as she then gave him that signature look that would make him regret disappointing her even in the slightest; her fingers lightly grasping at his chin before he pulled away and shot her a far more confident grin.

"Don't worry. I didn't exactly intend to let this place be the end of me. Now get going. I can hear them mobilizing for another attack." Frasier answered as he then began to seek out new cover; stepping away from the others only to see someone in Shido's group pointing in his direction within seconds.

"That must be one of them! Shoot him!" the same man called out only for Frasier to roll forward into cover behind a large green dumpster with one lid left open. While the smell was understandably unpleasant, he was still happy that all those shots either missed wildly or had ricocheted from the heavy green bin.

Grabbing the handles along the heavy dumpster on wheels, Frasier began to pull it along the open stretch of parking lot, effectively drawing in all of the attention from Shido's group that had been waiting for some form of response. They raised their firearms again as it seemed like they'd half expected the entire rescue team to be moving alongside it for cover again.

[Inon Zur - Dominant Species]

Their fingers all pulled hard on the triggers at once. The bullets once more began to either bounce harmlessly against the thick surface or landed far from their target. The young Brit allowed the metal bin to roll along for a bit, popping out from the sides to fire off several bursts of suppressing fire at Shido's guards before he'd be forced to go back into cover to avoid being picked off by a lucky shot.

Noticing two followers running straight for him and far from cover, Frasier took aim only to fire two consecutive bursts; watching with a proud smirk when the first one toppled over face first into the ground as the second runner flipped over like he'd run into a spill of melted butter.

'Two tangos down.' 'Watch your right.' 'Head down!' several voices screamed in the back of his head as he constantly had to survey and react to so much happening at once; leaving little to no room for error if he intended to survive. However, his long years in the simulator were not wasted as he continued to keep Shido's entire group at bay; making sure to discourage another frontal assault by suppressing those that seemed restless or ready to make another rush.

'Bloody hell! They're all about to make a push if you don't do something! Use that canister you found!' his conscience suddenly shouted before Frasier nodded and reached into his backpack only to pull out the liquid chlorine he'd picked up in the janitors storage room.

Waiting for a break in the shooting, he watched as several of his attackers had to reload before they could start laying down more fire in his direction. Using all his might in one arm, Frasier tossed the liquid chlorine into the air, making sure to hone his iron sights on it just as it flew over the overturned benches and tables. A single round was fired; the trajectory and timing couldn't be more perfect. The steel round tore right through the plastic container, causing its contents to splatter and spew in several directions. While most of the chemicals painted the ground around them, some of the hostile survivors were doused by it.

"Waaah! The fuck was that?" one man called out as he immediately stopped shooting when it felt like his skin was burning; feeling like blisters were about to form as he tried to brush the contaminants off with his gloved hands.

"I have no idea! But Christ, my eyes and lungs…they feel like they're burning!" a woman called out as she dropped her gun only to start rubbing her eyes furiously in hopes of stopping the horrid burning itch that only seemed to be getting worse with every passing second.

"I...I can't breathe...must pull back..." another survivor wheezed as he dropped his rifle and began to retreat back towards the school. The other followers took notice of this and began to pull back as well to avoid being exposed themselves when they could smell the chlorine from where they stood.

"Retreat! Fucking retreat!" a young man practically bellowed out as Frasier had bought himself some time to reload and prepare for those brave enough to continue the assault; watching as they began to circle around the contaminated area, prompting him to continue pushing the dumpster sideways until he could find a proper point to use for cover; finding himself moving closer and closer towards the western wing of the compound.

"Amazing; he's actually doing it!" Saeko said to herself as the others began to carefully flank around to the southern region they originally tried to use for an exit; watching as a huge chunk of Shido's forces fled back into the eastern wing of the school.

"Let's just hope he's as good as he says he is." Johann commented, somewhat regretful that he'd left someone behind to face these still overwhelming numbers.

It was hard for the rest of the rescue team not to fight back, as they knew they could've easily been helping Frasier right now. However, their main priority was to evacuate Tadashi first, and they knew Frasier would want nothing less than to stick to the mission, even if it was going to cost him his own life in order to do so.

"That's it...all of you buggers hone in on me..." Frasier said to himself as he began to start firing in semi-automatic bursts to prevent recoil from throwing his shots off; watching with a pleased grin as Shido's people were all unable to stop him despite the odds being vastly in their favor.

*clang*

'Bollocks. At this rate they'll just swarm me. Time to improvise.'Frasier thought to himself as he looked over at a nearby window leading into the western wing's first floor as the dumpster struck the side of the wall.

[]

Without any time to spare; knowing Shido's people were starting to move in on him, Frasier fired several shots into the nearest window. The glass was littered with holes before shattering into thousands of fragments when the stock of his weapon slammed into it; vaulting over the now empty windowsill as he scanned what had to have been the school's former library for any hostiles before pulling over a nearby bookcase to block the window off.

*crash*

Most of books being held in the shelf immediately spilled out as the large wooden construct was able to cover most of the tall windowsill. Knowing there wasn't much time to spare before the rest of the guards broke through, the young man bolted for the twin doors leading into the expansive hallways. He carefully peered out to make sure the coast was clear.

Luckily, this group was hardly organized in any sense of the word. However, despite the way being clear for the moment, he could hear they were coming in from all angles. Uncertain whether or not the others had made it out, he began to set up a kill zone in the hallway by breaking into the nearby classrooms and pulling the teacher's long desks out to form a barricade at each intrusion point; leaving only one way clear for when it would be time for him to fall back. He then looked over his remaining munitions to see he only had one clip of 5.56 rounds left and two full clips of 9mm rounds for when it would get up close and personal.

"What are you doing, soldier? You're going to be boxed in of you don't pull out now." Arthur's voice suddenly warned as Frasier continued to drag the desks around to ensure he was moderately protected in his makeshift fortification.

"I need to buy the others as much time as possible. Best I make sure these pricks remain focused on me for as long as I can." Frasier said under his breath before he checked his ammo count one more time.

"Don't be a fool. Get out now before it's too late!" Arthur's voice suddenly shouted in a fierce growl that normally would break any resilience Frasier had within him.

"Sorry, sir. Order denied." Frasier said with unwavering determination as he could see the first of many hostile survivors heading straight for him; waiting for the first of what sounded like many that were moments away from running into his line of sights, closing one eye as he calmed his breathing.

"Over there! Behind the desks!" a male voice suddenly called out from the left flank; causing Frasier to suddenly turn his attention to a group of oncoming hostiles that were already hiding behind the sides of nearby lockers in the hallway.

They took several pot shots at him, forcing him to duck behind the desk before he began to return fire. Casings rattled against the tile patterned floor as he repeatedly pulled on the trigger.

"Fifteen...twelve...nine..." Frasier counted between each burst as he was taking shots from the front flank now; trying to ensure that the enemy would remain at bay before realizing he was almost completely out of ammo.

"Augh!" a random voice cried out as they charged straight in,only for the young Brit's weapon to let out a dreaded clicking sound. Before he could even toss his weapon aside and draw for the sidearm, he felt someone jumping onto his back in an attempt to pin him.

"C'mon!" Frasier shouted defiantly in English as he flipped the person over, only to slide out Mark's handgun and fire a single round into their chest, only for another to grasp at his arm. He tried to take a wild swing at the interloper, but soon found his free arm being dragged aside by another.

"Pin that asshole down!" someone called out before a fist suddenly struck out and nailed Frasier straight in the gut.

Like a feral animal backed into a corner, Frasier used all his remaining strength to swing his arms and the people latched onto them straight against the man who just landed a heavy hit to his stomach. He leapt back with both fists raised, only to watch as several of his attackers had their guns raised and aimed straight for him. While they might've been inexperienced with such weapons, it would've been impossible to miss such a close target. He then lowered his fists, knowing they wouldn't be foolish enough to take him on toe to toe again, that his journey had finally come to an abrupt end.

"Well go on then. Let's get on with it!" Frasier initially grumbled with his head bowed, which earned some confused looks from Shido's soldiers before he then lifted his head up to look at them with a terrifying gaze. His voice then suddenly boomed as they visibly recoiled at such power behind it.

*tink* *tink*

[Martijin Vranken - Duty Calls]

Before either side could make their next move, a small canister suddenly rolled out between them. Frasier and the hostile survivors alike looked shocked to see a small canister rolling along the floor seconds before it spewed smoke in all directions. Frasier held his left arm to cover his mouth only to catch a purple blur from the corner of his eyes a split second before he felt himself being taken by his free hand and dragged through the smoke. The sound of random and confused gunfire went off in an attempt to hit the fleeing attacker, but the thick smoke was already filling the intersecting hallways to the point nobody could see even a foot in front of them. All shots just harmlessly struck the walls and lockers as the two survivors kept running.

"You shouldn't have come back for me. I had it under control." Frasier grumbled as he let out a rough cough, realizing it was none other than Saeko that had come back for him just in the nick of time; earning a rather sly grin from her as they both kept running for the exits with no intent on turning back.

"Maybe I just missed you. Did you ever think of that?" Saeko retorted with a sarcastic chuckle as they shoved through the twin doors only to see the way was now completely clear with the sun rising directly in their direction.

"Fair enough...and it looks like we're right on time!" Frasier said in acknowledgment before motioning up at the sun. Saeko at first was confused as to what he was talking about up until she turned her head to see the crazed followers behind them that had stopped to take a shot were unable to properly aim when the bright rays were beaming directly into their eyes.

'So THIS is why he wanted to attack so close to dawn. Risky, but it looks like it worked flawlessly nonetheless. Is this how he's always been?' Saeko pondered to herself as she was completely astonished by the display of tactical prowess.

The distracted samurai quickly snapped back into reality though as she led Frasier towards the huge gap in the fence she'd created just moments ago before rescuing him. Johann and Hitomi stood at the ready by the exit, both laying down covering fire with what little ammo they had left on them; spurring the shooters behind both Frasier and Saeko to dash back behind any viable cover, still unable to adequately return the shots.

"C'mon! Los gehts! (Off we go!)" Johann announced; his patience and nerves wearing way too thin when a stray round struck just several centimeters away from his ear to where it caused him to speak German for a moment; urging the others to fall back faster before their luck would run out.

"Hand me your weapon. You help Tadashi move." Frasier suddenly said; earning an understanding nod from Johann before he quickly handed the young Brit his Ak-103.

Wasting no time, Frasier began to instantly start firing off several volleys of 7.62mm rounds, the recoil seeming like nothing to him despite the intense stopping power behind it. Johann however spared no time pulling Tadashi up off of the ground he was sitting on before they began to go from cover to cover; keeping an eye out for 'Them' as the others began to run after them, never stopping once until they reached the Onbetsu Bridge.

[]

A sense of victory overwhelmed them all as they stood among the columns of abandoned cars and scattered police cruisers that filled the bridge. Entire piles of warning pamphlets about 'Them' aimlessly blew around in the wind. The blood that had been spilled here was long dried up as if it were now a permanent marker of the horrors that took place that dreadful night. The survivors' breathing was heavy; their brows dripping with sweat as their burning lungs gasped for precious air. The adrenaline from battle still had yet to wear off, leaving their muscles burning and their hearts eager for action. They knew though that the rescue operation was a major success and that they had won this round and could finally rest easy.

"T-that was incredible! Think they'll believe us when we return home?" Hitomi asked between her gasps for air as she had both her palms firmly planted against her knees for support; looking up for a response to see most of the rescue team was looking back at her with similar smiles painted on their faces.

"I don't think that will be an issue. If not, I'll be sure to let them know it happened. You all have no idea how thankful I am for everything you've done for me this day. I'm honored to be in the presence of such brave and capable people." Tadashi suddenly said with a reassuring smile before mustering up the strength to thank his rescuers with a proper bow; his voice teeming with pride and gratitude as he could see the others were beyond flattered to hear such words coming from such a respectable man.

"No need to thank us, sir. We did it for your family. Besides, no man is ever left behind in our group." Johann said with the utmost sincerity in his voice; earning a rather gracious smile from Tadashi as he was beyond ecstatic at the thought of finally being reunited with his family after their separation ever since the outbreak had occurred.

"That's very noble of you to say...?" Tadashi said, somewhat caught off guard by the humble attitude of the young man before him; curious now to know the names of the two other survivors he'd yet to meet prior to this day, holding his hand out.

"Oh, I'm Johann Kessler. Glad to finally meet you, sir." Johann replied confidently as the two shook hands out of a strong and very mutual respect.

"Pleased to meet you, young man; and you are?" Tadashi said with a warm smile only to then turn his gaze upon Saeko, who glanced over towards them when she realized he was talking to her.

"Hmm? Oh! M-my apologies! My name is Saeko Busujima!" Saeko suddenly said with a nervous stammer out of embarrassment for being what she considered to be rude; bowing before Tadashi, only to cause a short burst of laughter to escape his lips.

"Don't worry yourself with formalities of the past, young lady. What you've all done for me is something I will never be able to pay back. I'm still astonished that it only took four of you to do it. A part of me was expecting at least twenty men to get me out of that wretched place." Tadashi said with a grateful and understanding tone that helped the young violet haired girl noticeably calm down; proceeding to voice his astonishment at their capabilities shortly after.

"Maybe if we didn't have the leadership we did, then perhaps we would've needed that many to ensure a successful rescue. Luckily, that was not the case here." Hitomi agreed before motioning towards Frasier, who was just standing on top of an overturned bulldozer and looking out in the distance, as if expecting Shido's group to be coming all this way in pursuit.

"Ah, I guess I forgot that he was military raised. I should've remembered after that battle we fought alongside him in the beginning." Tadashi said in acknowledgment before both he and Hitomi recalled the hectic skirmish that they all barely managed to survive that felt like it had been years ago.

"Battle? What battle is this?" Saeko suddenly pried with a curious look in her eyes as she was uncertain what they were speaking of; determined nonetheless to find out now that they had time to actually talk things out.

"During the second day of the outbreak, we managed to link up with Tadashi-san and what little remained of the Eastern Tokonosu Police Force. Those that weren't dead were barely able to handle everything, especially when our main force was being wiped out on this very damn bridge. Your friend up there took charge, and through his planning and the aid of an American pilot lending some much needed close air support, we managed to kill hundreds of 'Them' at the very least." Hitomi began to explain as she recalled that dark night. The battle was no longer fresh in her mind, but those that had been lost still remained in her thoughts even to this day.

"The best part is why he bothered to stick around in the first place-" Hitomi then began to announce, only to be cut off when Frasier suddenly leapt off the bulldozer and landed just a few meters away, as if trying to keep her from saying anything else. Everyone was now focusing on him as he began to casually walk over with the AK-103 strapped over his shoulder. His eyes were entirely focused on the young police woman standing before him.

"We're not in the clear just yet. Best we start moving again. Hitomi-san, you're on point. I'll cover our six." Frasier ordered as he watched them pause for a moment before eventually heading back out onto the road. None of them noticed the look of relief his face formed when his original intent that night was kept secret from Saeko of all people.

Luckily, 'They' weren't anywhere to be seen as the five survivors made their way towards the fortified hotel. The rest of the trip took an extended two hours due to Tadashi's impaired movement, but the rescue team let out sighs of relief when they could finally see the towering structure in sight. It was almost midday, the warm sunlight bearing down on their backs as they knew that all would be fine now that they had reached this point.

Frasier then reached into his backpack and pulled out what appeared to be a small mirror, angling it so that the sun would reflect off of it. Within a minute of him flashing the shard about,there came a glint from the top of the hotel. A small smile formed along his lips as he then put it back into his pack.

"I take it they're on their way down now?" Johann commented as Frasier nodded gently before letting out another sigh that hinted exhaustion.

"Most likely; considering who we're bringing back." Frasier responded as he glanced back at Tadashi, who had his head bowed, his wounds and beatings clearly having sapped him of most of his strength.

"You know that they'll want to thank you as well." Johann then brought up as he was quick to notice Frasier's rather distant look; making it crystal clear he wanted nothing to do with that.

"That won't be necessary. There's a lot of work that needs doing anyhow. You guys enjoy the celebrations without me." Frasier disregarded as he simply shook his head. Johann just shrugged his shoulders as he knew there was no use in trying to convince someone as stubborn as Frasier.

"Like what? You're telling me you can't take a couple minutes to relax and enjoy the spoils of our victory? You know without you it would've gone down much worse, right?" Hitomi questioned, confused why he was being so apprehensive about acknowledging his part in all of it.

"Oh, I'm well aware my part gave this group the edge needed to win, but I'm tired now and need to recover. It's been a long night after all. Besides, I never was one for being the center of attention." Frasier acknowledged as he was more than aware that a quick and clean victory depended most on him being involved. However, it still didn't seem to turn him one bit towards the idea of everyone mentioning it. Hitomi simply rolled her eyes before lightly slugging him in the side of his arm.

"I swear it's like you don't even WANT to be happy sometimes. Maybe you'll change your tune when you see the joy this will bring Rei-chan and Kiriko-san." Hitomi grumbled passive-aggressively before suggesting that he at least stick around to see the good his actions would have brought to their group, who was anxiously awaiting them down in the lobby.

"Johann-san, I think I can take it from here." Tadashi suddenly spoke up as he then pulled away only to stumble on his two feet; looking up as he then forced himself to stand up tall and proud, walking past the others and pulling open the doors to the hotel lobby without any assistance.

The proud detective took a moment to take in his surroundings; instantly being met with several faces he didn't recognize straight away until it finally hit him, the moment he looked over at two very familiar women sitting on one of the couches; one with her head buried between her knees as if out of anxiety from the anticipation whilst the other tried to comfort her. Tadashi simply limped over only to tower over them, forming a soft smile before leaning down before them.

"I don't suppose you could point me in the direction of my little rose?" Tadashi said in a soft, calming voice as he watched as both Rei and Kiriko suddenly looked straight at him like he was a ghost.

No further sound could be heard as Rei just stared at the man who was without a doubt her father; finally standing before her alive and in the flesh. Her initial look of surprise and shock quickly turned into her lips quivering as her eyes began to form tears she had no hope of holding back now. A soft sob escaped past her lips as she instantly flung herself into his arms, her head pressed hard against Tadashi's chest as she let out an uncontrollable laughter from what was undoubtedly sheer joy from the relief of what had been an absolutely soul-consuming nightmare for her.

"I knew you were alive...I knew you'd make it...but to actually see you again...I...I..." Kiriko began to suddenly mutter as she simply stared at him, completely shocked to not only see him, but to hear him as well. Her eyes were now overflowing with tears as well when she could only watch him suddenly looking back at her with that confidence inspiring smile of his she'd fallen in love with so long ago.

"Shhh...It's okay, Kiriko, my love. I'm here now and that's all that matters." Tadashi suddenly said in a low hush as she slowly wrapped her arms around him as well. The Miyamoto family had finally been reunited, and there wasn't anything in the world that could hope to separate them now.

"Do you see it now? Because you decided to help out, you brought a family back together. Doesn't that make you feel anything?" Hitomi whispered as she nudged Frasier slightly with the tip of her elbow; watching him slowly nod as he began to watch with more intensity behind his otherwise vacant gaze.

"I...yeah...I guess so." Frasier muttered in a rather distant grumble before realizing a part of him couldn't help but feel perplexed at the sight before him. Seeing a family together where a mother, father, and their child were beyond happy to see one another, a genuine love he'd yet to experience past Noah and Marcus. A strange surge of jealousy then filled his heart before he just sneered at the idea of him ever having anything like this; slowly pulling away into seclusion as the rest of the group stood there, completely touched by the heartwarming reunion.

"Oh, I'm so happy to see everything worked out so well in the end! I hate to cut the sweet moment up though, but I think I should take a look at those injuries. Do you guys mind?" Shizuka suddenly announced in her usual sweet and bubbly tone, absolutely delighted to see Rei so happy in contrast to how she had been for the last few days. Both Kiriko and Rei nodded in acceptance as they knew they would have all the time in the world now to spend with Tadashi.

"It's not as bad as it looks." Tadashi grunted as Shizuka's happy expression soon turned to one displaying deep concern the further she had to examine his cuts and bruises.

"You'll certainly survive no problem, but I'm going to need everything we've got left to patch you up. The last thing you need is an infection." Shizuka replied as she went straight to business with his severe wounds; rubbing in several ointments before carefully wrapping medical gauze where it was needed most.

"Rei-chan, I think we're forgetting something." Kiriko suddenly brought up; earning an initially confused look from Rei before she was motioned to look over at those from the rescue team that still remained in the lobby.

"Oh, of course! How could I be so ungrateful?!" Rei suddenly realized as she immediately rushed over to thank those a part of the dangerous raid on Shido's compound. First off was warning, Rei instantly hugged her tightly as the young officer let out a nervous and rather flattered chuckle out of surprise.

"Thank you, Hitomi-san. This means so much to me. You have no idea how much I owe you for this!" Rei said gratefully as the two women just smiled at one another.

"I'll have to remember that one day! But seriously, it's just a partof the job. I'm just glad I was able to help out." Hitomi responded as she was more than happy to help out, as if it were just another day on her former job; earning a nod of understanding from Rei before watching her dashing up towards Saeko, who stood there uncertain what to expect considering their past tensions with each other.

"Look...I know it's been awkward between us during the past two weeks with Takashi and everything else happening. I just want to say that I'm sorry about everything. What you've done for me is something I can only hope to do for you one day to truly show the gratitude I'm feeling right now. Until then, I can only say that I'm immensely grateful that you're a part of this group and…now I'd even go as far as to call you my friend." Rei confessed as she showed great remorse over her jealousy and misplaced anger towards Saeko, only to now realize that she cared for Rei just as much as she did for the others; that Saeko was no longer the enemy and was instead someone she felt she could trust wholeheartedly.

"Don't mention it. That's all just water under the bridge as far as I could possibly be concerned. I'm just glad to see you're happy again and that we could take Shido down a peg. My only regret is I couldn't see the look on his face when he realized we could strike him even if he hid in his little compound." Saeko replied in a humble tone before smirking at the awe stricken and angered expressions the teacher must've been making right about now in the aftermath of the raid.

"Ahh, I would pay actual money to see how he looks right now! I can just picture it now..." Rei said, somewhat disappointed in not being able to witness such a sight. Both girls started laughing before Rei then smiled as if she had more to say.

"As much as I would've loved to go myself, I think your friend was right in the end. I would've only been a hindrance." the young red-eyed girl admitted as she realized that it couldn't have been a very easy task to undergo as she initially believed it to be.

"It was quite intense, that much I'll admit...but luckily we had the perfect ace up our sleeve. He handled himself so well out there. We all did for that matter." Saeko confessed as she recalled how they were barely able to reach the exit before being driven out of the compound.

You'll have to tell us the details later on though; perhaps during dinner?" Rei said with an optimistic smile as she was now quite eager to hear the whole story.

"Of course; it was quite exciting all the way through. It should make for quite a good story." Saeko said with a slightly sadistic grin threatening to form as if she intended to speak about it regardless of who heard the specific descriptions; watching as Rei nodded in agreement before she approached Johann, who couldn't help but smile back at her.

"Johann, you have no idea how happy I am at this very moment. You risked your life to help us, to help me. I just have to ask now…why? You didn't owe me anything, so why would you actually choose to go out there? You could've seriously been hurt or worse!" Rei began to say in a pleasantly warm and grateful voice before finally addressing her curiosity for why he would have chosen to do this for virtually no reason as far as she knew.

"Because you needed help, Rei. It's what friends do after all for one another, isn't it?" Johann answered in a genuinely sincere response as he was puzzled why she would even feel the need to ask. That reasoning only made perfect sense to him, so he simply figured that was the conclusion anyone else would've come to.

"I know, but still...it was so dangerous! I would never be able to forgive myself if anything happened to you because of me!" Rei replied before bringing up deeper concerns for his safety and how worried she'd been for him when they left last night. Johann's arms suddenly came around her shoulders, as if attempting to calm her down.

"Rei, after everything you did for me, how could I possibly just stay here and do nothing while seeing you suffer like you were? It was my choice to do this, and the risk was well worth it to see you smiling again." Johann expressed softly before watching Rei's cheeks turning a soft pink when she took in such an unexpected reply; her red-brown eyes nearly glistening as she couldn't break her gaze from his eyes. For the shortest time, she looked legitimately speechless, at a complete loss of what to say to something clearly so heartfelt.

Rei only looked at Johann for a split second before leaning in on her tip-toes; her soft, warm lips gently kissing his stubble-covered cheek before smiling when the tables had quickly been turned on him; watching as it was his turn now to blush in front of her and those watching the rather sweet moment between the two survivors who had become so close since they first met. Johann then let her go, softly smiling to himself, trying to formulate a coherent sentence.

"Ah, um...well then! I suppose that was for being brave?" Johann asked somewhat nervously as he watched Rei's inviting smile turn into a mischievous grin, as if she greatly enjoyed making him flustered; all the while somewhat feeling blessed that neither Kiriko nor Tadashi were able to see such a thing despite being in the same room. Luckily for Johann, they were far more occupied for the time being with getting Tadashi's wounds treated.

"But of course. I had to thank you properly somehow!" Rei replied in a soft giggle as she didn't realize up until now how much Johann's peach fuzz facial hair tickled her lips when she briefly felt it. The other group members watching all let off shorts bursts of chuckling and snickering as the two survivors quickly recalled that they weren't alone.

'I suppose I should also thank Frasier-san for helping in the end, even if he was a reluctant jerk about it earlier.' Rei thought to herself as she began to look around the room for him, only to realize he was the only person unaccounted for now.

"Hey? Where did our 'oh so fearless leader' go?" Rei asked in surprise as the others began to look around for any signs of him; hoping to find him sulking in the corner somewhere only to realize he must've gone upstairs to put the firearms away.

"I guess he went off to brood somewhere. Pay no mind to him though." Marcus commented, speaking as if he was somewhat irked that his older brother was so reluctant to enjoy this moment with the rest of them.

"Oh let him be, Markie-Mark. He must be exhausted after what they just went through. Besides, he'll show up when he's ready to talk about our next move." Noah responded in a defensive manner, watching with a sly smile when Marcus could only respond with a grumble in embarrassment after being called by his least favorite nickname.

"So are you hungry, Tadashi-san? I can't imagine those freaks at the school were too keen on feeding you very well." Saeko randomly offered as the weary detective nodded slightly whilst Shizuka had her work cut out for her trying to patch up and stitch the numerous lacerations found along his arms and legs.

"Allow me to setup something for lunch. I think everyone could use something to eat after waiting almost all morning for your return." Kiriko suddenly interjected as Saeko gladly accepted it, now starting to feel an aching soreness in the back of her thighs.

"Thank you, I think that rescue took more out of me than I originally thought. I'm going to go lay down for a moment. Wake me if anything comes up." Saeko said in thanks before heading upstairs to recuperate her spent stamina.

"Hey, hold up, Saeko-chan!" Takashi suddenly called out as he rushed over to join her. She briefly stopped, forming a warm smile when she saw him approaching her only to eagerly take her by the hand; leading his samurai companion up the stairs until they found themselves curled up together on one of the beds in their shared room.

"How do you feel now? I was quite worried about you while I was away." Saeko suddenly asked as she had her head resting against Takashi's chest.

"Worried about me? You were the one out there in the middle of danger. Do you know what could've happened if something went wrong; if they had captured you?" Takashi expressed as he sounded unsettled by her choosing to go after all. She looked at him with an almost regretful look as if she knew exactly what he meant.

"Believe me; I know that...it would most certainly be a fate worse than death. It sickens me; the very thought of being taken captive...but luckily Frasier-san was always one step ahead of Shido's people. You should've seen it." Saeko replied with utter disgust in her voice at first, her body then shuddering in response to such a fate. However, her tune quickly switched to that of borderline admiration when speaking of Frasier's performance.

"Oh, I can believe you. Even before we knew his past, that stare of his alone could tell you he meant business. I'm glad he kept his word in protecting you. I can't lose you, Saeko-chan." Takashi acknowledged without hesitation, alluding that her best friend could be pegged as a natural killing machine after seeing the raw and unyielding rage housed behind those ice blue eyes of his. Saeko's right hand then lightly turned his head so he'd be facing her again.

"Komuro-kun..." she gently whispered at his display of emotion before they both leaned forward and kissed; closing their eyes before their bodies curled even closer together for warmth.

On the Roof…

Meanwhile, as everyone celebrated their much needed victory and taking great care to ensure Tadashi would recover comfortably, Frasier stood on the rooftop to attend to his own wounds with his back against a nearby vent. His body casually slid down until he was sitting with both knees practically hugging his chest. He pulled off his jacket to check on the damage he'd received, yet had been quick to keep from the others considering how low medical supplies were already.

Two dark red slits could be seen on him: one across the right shoulder and the another along his left bicep. Thin trails of blood were still oozing out slowly but surely from their respective openings now instead of soaking into the sage green jacket he'd become rather fond of. He was able to block the pain for quite some time due to the adrenaline which had now passed in place for a pulsing and throbbing sensation as if there was no tomorrow. Sparing no time to patch himself up, he began to flick Rika's lighter until a small flame began to dance around his fingertips. He then held his combat knife under the fire, watching as the steel began to glow red after several minutes.

"Blimey this is gonna hurt..." Frasier grumbled under his breath as he closed both eyes; taking a deep breath as he nervously placed the flat side of the scalding hot blade along his left arm; biting down on his grey beanie cap to try and muffle the inevitable shout of pain.

*tssssssss*

"Guuuh!" Frasier groaned and growled as he winced from the agonizing pain he couldn't have possibly prepared himself for; having to keep himself from truly expressing his anger and distress so that nobody downstairs would potentially hear him.

The smell of burnt flesh filled the air around him as the searing, stinging sensation that pulled and tugged at his nerves soon began to become numb and tingly. The blade soon cooled off, prompting him to heat up the steel once more as he felt tears welling up in the corner of his eyes from the first cauterization.

"Don't cry...don't fucking cry, you bloody ponce. Soldiers don't cry. You especially don't get to cry, you knew the risks by helping them." Frasier grumbled under his breath as he watched the knife heating up again; talking to himself to avoid showing any sign of weakness even when he was the only person there. He then clenched his teeth in anticipation as he slowly angled the knife over his bleeding shoulder.

*tssssssss*

"Mmpphh!" Frasier whined as his head shot away from his shoulder, a twin set of tears trickled down his cheeks as he had to keep the pressure up and ensure that his most recent addition of wounds wouldn't become a problem for himself or the others.

'Oh God...this better be the last time I do this. Next time I'm just gonna let it bleed!' Frasier muttered silently in the back of his head as he then looked up to see the beautiful sight before him.

The entire city reflected from the bright yellow sun that was able to peak through the grey clouds now. The nearby river shined and shimmered as he looked upon it. Despite the severe pain from both being grazed and the cauterization tingling and bearing down on all of his senses, he felt at peace with the scene before him. It felt almost like he was home right now, ignoring the droves and hordes of man-eating monsters that lingered below ruling the outside world.

"Was it worth it now, Frasier? All this for those weaklings that should be groveling at your boots?" Arthur's voice suddenly asked as the young Brit began to pull up his sage green jacket in an attempt to cover up his botched self-treatment.

"I like to think so. They seemed very happy and at ease when we returned with the detective. After all, morale is key to a unit's survival, is it not?" Frasier mumbled softly before looking over at the faded image of Arthur standing over him with both arms crossed.

"True. Very true, but do not consider them your unit. They are merely just expendable pawns to you and your brothers until an Evac can arrive. Do not forget: your only concerns lie with Noah and Marcus." Arthur hesitantly agreed and accepted as a response before suddenly lecturing him about the other's lives.

"No. T-They're more than pawns to me now. I once thought that they had no use beyond taking a potential bullet for us, for me…but I think I might be wrong about that. I…I think they're my friends." Frasier denied as he shook his head, standing up and walking over to the edge of the rooftop to look out at the scenic view as he confessed how he began to feel closer to those that dwelled downstairs.

"We'll see about that, lad. Just you wait until you need them to come save your sentimental arse from trouble. See how quick and eager they'll be to respond when they have to get their own hands dirty." Arthur snarled before all went silent again, leaving Frasier nothing but a soft breeze that blew his noticeably longer hair over his eyebrows.

He now just stood there; contemplating just how far he should allow himself to trust these people he'd otherwise consider strangers had the world not ended and forced him to interact with them. The training and numerous lectures should've made him wary of placing any faith into those weaker than himself, yet Frasier couldn't bring himself to judge them nearly as harshly as he did at first glance. While there was plenty of room for improvement around here, this was a good start to him.

"Maybe you're right…but not today, father." Frasier said under his breath as he thought about Takashi's group, recalling the joy they all seemed to display, as well as the genuine look of approval and acceptance he personally received when he stuck to his promise; forming a faint smile between his lips as he continued to watch the clouds slowly pass on by. He started wondering if Lulu would've enjoyed the calming sight as much as he did right now.

The door to the roof suddenly opened up, but the scenery however was too captivating to him to be bothered by it. His ears slightly twitched the louder the footsteps from behind grew; eventually breaking him from the otherwise calming moment to turn around and see who it was that had decided to approach him. He pulled his jacket back on before they could have a chance at seeing what he was really doing up on the roof.

"Takashi-san? What are you doing up here? Shouldn't you be downstairs with the others celebrating?" Frasier questioned, speaking as if he was genuinely surprised to see him of all people up here with him.

"I'll be going back soon enough. However, it's sort of good that it's just the two of us right now. I just have to say something to you then I'll leave you alone, alright?" Takashi said before expressing that he had an actual reason to be talking to Frasier now of all times.

"Alright..." Frasier said as he nodded, his voice showing some hesitation as he was quite curious what Takashi could possibly want to talk about.

"I just wanted to say thank you, not just for sticking to your word by keeping Saeko-chan safe, but also what you did to help Rei and her family. I doubt anything I could've said or done at this point would've been enough to keep her from charging head first into that school." Takashi said in a fractious voice, crossing his arms as a soft breeze went by. Frasier somewhat was taken aback by the fact Takashi actually bothered to show his gratitude for rescuing Tadashi from Shido's group.

"I see...well I did it for my own reasons, but at least it worked out for everyone. Umm...may I say something I've had on my mind about you now?" Frasier replied as if unable to accept the credit for his deed, then proceeding to catch Takashi off guard by having something to say himself about the former leader.

"Me? Well you might as well since we're both here." Takashi said in agreement as he was now curious to hear what the towering Brit had to say to him.

"I think I finally understand why you were the leader of your group, despite how weak you are compared to Saeko-san, Kohta-san, and Miyamoto-san." Frasier announced without any hint of humor in his voice, completely straight faced the entire time as Takashi just stared at him, uncertain where he was going with this.

"It's because of your weakness that you can relate to them and understand them on a far better level than I could ever hope to. You were one of them from the beginning, and you knew how to react accordingly to keep them together through the worst of the trials you must've encountered out there." Frasier then admitted, as if the reasoning behind Takashi being their leader had truly managed to dig under his skin for whatever reason. The young teen however was somewhat more relieved when it didn't sound like there would be an issue between the two.

"So I want to give you my thanks now for protecting Saeko-san while I could not. She's...she's a really close friend, and losing her would've really been a personal loss to me. I can see why she likes you so much now, and I think she picked right." Frasier than lamented as his voice carried deep shame, hardly able to contain his emotions or the possibility he saw her as more than just a friend before the world came to an end, only to catch Takashi off guard a second time now when he showed actual approval for her choice.

"Thanks...to be fair though, we would've been screwed if you and your brothers didn't show up at that construction yard." Takashi muttered, uncertain how to react accordingly before reminding that they weren't exactly about to end on a good note before the Lawson's had intervened.

"True, you have Alice-chan to thank for that. I'm sorry that you had to endure so much, Takashi-san. It can't be easy for a civilian to do a soldiers job. Luckily, now that I'm in charge,you'll be able to recover." Frasier agreed before recalling how it was the little girl he'd soon befriended that was able to help lead them to Takashi's group just in the nick of time to begin with.

"Yeah...no kidding. I uh, I don't suppose you have a plan for dealing with Shido's group? Knowing him, he's going to take this attack very personally, and he will use all his resources to get even with us." Takashi smirked as he was glad to have been the one to rescue Alice, knowing that ever since they took her in,she had been nothing but help every step of the way through.

"Their base is far, but I have considered the potential retaliation. Should he assault this hotel with those cultists of his in their current state, it will be a slaughter for them. We have the high ground, superior combat training; and after a raid like that, their morale will be broken for quite some time. However, we will remain vigilant nonetheless for their next move." Frasier answered, speaking with utmost confidence and bravado in his demeanor before Takashi couldn't help but shoot him a baffled look.

"You seem so certain of this. What will you do should they manage to catch us off guard or find some kind of edge that would give them an advantage? How can you be so calm about this?" Takashi prodded as he raised an eyebrow, uncertain what else this guy had up his sleeves that made him so fearless despite the odds.

"I've been trained to destabilize entire armies should the need arise. To defeat a force larger than oneself requires perfect finesse and tactical precision. We cut off the head, and then the rest of the body will crumble and wither away." Frasier then proceeded to answer as Takashi realized that he didn't intend to take on the entire group head on like he expected.

"So you're saying if worse comes to worst…we should kill Shido and the rest of his group should follow?" Takashi asked to confirm that he understood Frasier's phrasing properly.

"Precisely." Frasier acknowledged before nodding to confirm Takashi's question.

"I guess that makes sense. I just wish I wasn't so helpless right now." Takashi said as he was able to feel somewhat better about their situation before showing regret that he couldn't fight back the way the others still could.

"You're doing just fine, Takashi-san. The best you can do right now is keeping the others together while I take care of any shite that makes the mistake of getting in our way." Frasier said out of unexpected sympathy, causing Takashi to smile a little as he realized there was still more to surviving and holding a group together than sheer force.

"Sounds like a plan to me. I really wasn't sure what to think of you when we first met, but I think it's safe to say that you're on our side now. I'm sorry if I ever doubted you." Takashi said before apologizing for how he and the others would openly question Frasier's motives and sanity at times where it wasn't fair to judge him.

Before Frasier could respond, they both noticed someone else was now approaching from downstairs; both forming a soft smile when little Alice came running up with Zeke not too far behind with his little tail wagging out of sheer excitement no doubt. Takashi slowly knelt down on one knee to get on her level and hear what news she undoubtedly had for them.

"Rei's mom made us lunch! Come get some while there's still any left!" the energetic child announced with a wide smile when she stopped just before practically crashing straight into the two young men.

"Thanks for telling us, Alice-chan. We'll be right there." Takashi replied with a warm smile, playfully tussling her hair which made the young child giggle in response.

"I'll stay up here and watch. You can go on without me." Frasier then announced as he turned to face the rest of the city, knowing where his place was right now.

"Ah, come on. You said they won't be doing anything anytime soon." Takashi suddenly brought up, inviting Frasier to join them as well as using his own words against him so he'd be more likely to agree.

"Hmm...I guess it wouldn't hurt if I left for a quick bite. Alright, let's go." Frasier sighed before shrugging his shoulders, knowing that it perhaps wouldn't hurt to lower his guard for a bit; turning to see both Alice and Takashi alike where smiling at his sudden change of heart.

"C'mon! Hurry up, slow pokes!" Alice suddenly shouted as she darted back for the stairs, almost challenging the two teens as they let out a soft chuckle before running after her and leaving the roof entirely vacant for the first time in weeks.