Hey, I know it's been too long since the I've last updated. School has been rough and I'm trying my best to get by. Thanks to spring break, I was able to catch up with my studies and have the time to finish this part before the end of it. There's no way I'm giving up on this story, you hear?
Onto the comment and reviews that I love so much! Thanks for your support!
Reviews:
ImmortalRedWolf:
Don't you mean five stars up or am I getting that wrong? Either way I'm grateful for your love for my story! I won't let you down! ...Probably.
Shyjoker:
You seem to have a great idea on them. Sharaku is a little strange than what people are use to so watch what you say about him. Yukiko is a favorite among the viewers and I. Benibara, I can imagine her type is not well liked on the girl side, fingers cross she doesn't cross that line. Zenji is a surprise, I thought except him you would dislike. Takeshi, does he scare you with his type of personal? Ayumi-chan, is... yeah... Naoto is all about trust so even if you hate rap, its all good if you're trustworthy.
TeamYukiko:
Sorry that I failed to write the ocs in chapter 2 to be within your interest, I must still be incompetent in writing those characters back then. At least I managed to write them in some miraculous way that kept you reading up to chapter 3. I'm overjoyed to see you have found a oc you love. She is indeed a precious one. That makes me happy you're fond of her and encourages me to try harder so you like all the cast to a passable level along with making you love Yukiko even more than before. If that's even possible!
The Golden Radiant Hare:
I won't call you crazy since your so adorable~! Please read this latest release to see whether or not you are.
SyroTheWritten:
I've now seen you then Syro! Hopefully, you can ride the high from this update all through today as well! Wow, 3/4's of the girls don't like Kenzo...? Gosh, I didn't know how much I cruelly made Kenzo so dislikable and badly treated... T-T (...Hahahahaha!) I'm glad the characters made such a big impression on you, and will attempt to continue for the days to come.
iammarklh88:
No problem! I wonder too what she can offer. Time will tell.
SlyKingFrost:
The music industry is a place with its light and dark sides depending on which path you choose to get to the top. There's nothing false about what Kenzo said. Play your cards right with morale and you'll be just fine. The opposite is fine if you're into that sort of thing... I'm no hater. Both sides could be both beneficially good and bad.
BlueTanaka:
Receiving praise from others for my work on the second cast never gets tiresome. It makes me all warm inside to hear about it. Yukiko is an interesting character to write about and I believe she's one of the few that can even tolerate Kenzo. :O You can say he's a people person. XD ...Yeah, it is ironic to have a person named TeamYukiko, I wouldn't be surprised if that person was you. If not, you must be glad to have a fan of your oc, right?
PowerPlayer:
Thank you for looking forward to my last update and I wish you do so for this one too. Kenzo is an abnormal character for me to write about, though I wonder what talent shifting from best to worst might be? A journalist? Reason I choose all sixteen character was because they were distinct from each other. Wouldn't anyone not want similar characters to overlap each other? Naoto, I imagine is a straight up and honest person, so its natural since Kenzo respects that kind of person. About Zenji, he didn't actually trick Kenzo, he only played along with his own wild assumption thinking Kenzo was joking. Nothing more as far as I thought writing it. Thanks, I'll try working on grammar errors, and will surely continue with Kenzo's torment among his classmates!
R3dLuv3Singin:
Your praise is always welcomed with a stunning profile picture like that messaging me! :D The second set of students are an interesting bunch for me to write about, including yours! I hope to continyue portraying him just right, nyan!
ShadedLyht:
Well, when people usually submit their ocs, the person they dislike/disrespect or dislike is kind of what Kenzo is portrayed as, so it wouldn't be a far stretch to say he's an embodiment of the type of person ocs regularly hate opposed to them getting along swimmingly. In addition to not being a mere bystander, he is the life of the party type of person whether it be good or bad. Don't worry, I know you mean no offense. I enjoy writing the cast, and thanks for your submission.
DoctorTDespair:
I'm still hanging in there. Don't worry your pretty little head!
A special thanks to Shyjoker for greatly sketching out the entire cast! I can honestly say I couldn't have done a better job myself. If you want to see them, go to Little-shy-joker deviant art. It shouldn't be too hard to find unless you don't know what a gallery is! XD
Now, without further ado...!
"Ahem! Ahem! Mike check! Testing, testing! One two three! May I have your attention, please? Hello? Am I on? Can everyone hear me?" A static, squeaky odd voice came through from the speakers, one so playfully lighthearted and out-of-place that could make someone who possess at least some common instincts to feel a slight discomfort. "I know you can so don't pretend you can ignore me! Ahem, very well then... Listen up all new students of Kibougamine Academy... I would like to start off the entrance ceremony... immediately! Everyone please assemble inside the recreation center's gymnasium. I'll be waiting. Upupupu..."
The announcement ended there. Well, well, what an interesting announcement. I guess I should-
"Heeey, Kurenai-chan~!" Kotori energetically rushed right over to me.
"Oh, Koto, how was your trip to the restroom, did you manage to make or do I have to watch out for puddles? If your panties are wet, you should take them off before you catch a cold. You also might end up smelling like ammonia. Kekeke!"
"That's the first thing that you had to say to me?" Kotori visibly shocked. "Show some tact when talking to a young maiden!"
If she said young woman, there's no possible way I could resist say, 'Ha, with a chest size as flat a pancake!'
"Should I take that as a yes?"
"No and no! With my luck there was no doubt I would make it and did!"
"Prove it!"
"Huh?"
"I bet you a million yen that you're not wearing any panties under your skirt right now! You took them off and hide them away to secretly dry off!"
"I did not!"
"If you're telling the truth, then you have no trouble accepting, right? Now raise up your skirt and prove it! Put up or shut up!"
Alright then, I'll-" Kotori suddenly stopped midway. "Hahaha, nice try! That might've worked on Ono-chan but not me! You just wanted me to show my underwear you pervert!"
"...Inconceivable! How were you able to figure out my elaborate and ingenious plot!?"
"I-I knew from the very start of course! Yep, from the very start!"
"Then I'll use Plan B!" I took a deep breath. "Show me your panties or else!"
"No!"
Plan C then!
"Pretty please show me your panties beautiful young maiden!" I requested politely with excess charm.
"I respectfully decline!"
Plan D!
"There's a chance that I caught a rare deadly disease and the only known cure is to see your panties!"
"It was nice knowing you! Farewell!"
...
"..."
Right now, I'm in the process of initiating Plan K...
"...Hehehe, this is kind of fun."
"Yeah, I really like fooling around like this from time to time."
Though, now I'm bored of this skit.
"Though it's kind of sad you would bet a million yen just to see someone's panties. You can go to the red light district and have woman do that kind of s-stuff! So I heard from reliable sources. ...Actually, it's basically from fictional stories but..."
"Fool, if I was only interested in engaging in sexual foreplay and activities then I play with all my beautiful maids twenty four seven. But no way hose! Doing so would be so boring and way too easy! It's much more fun to trick and manipulate others into doing what I want out of their own accord for my personal satisfaction without the usage of force. Doesn't even have to be a big deal or sexual wise. Like getting me a glass of water or seeing your panties. It's all the same! In good fun!"
Now if only I put some effort, I wonder what the result would've been?
"Comparing to wanting to see panties with a glass of water... You have a strange comparable sense... Ahem! Moving on, I see you've awoken from your lil nappy you sloth. Want to know what discovers I made while you were out? Fufufu, I'll be glad to aid your helpless self in-"
"Is it we're trapped in a school or eight more students are here, or both?"
"! How were you able-?"
"Common sense and Washi left a note."
"..." Kotori changed into a state of depression.
"Koto."
She must've realized making that discovery before any of us wasn't anything special.
"Curse you Bakashu-chan..."
"Bakashu?"
"Oh, right, you were still in dreamland back then. It was when I came back to the gymnasium. Since he says idiot as if it was his catchphrase and he's... him, Nakamura-chan thought about giving him a fun nickname which is Baka-shu. Everyone in our group seemed to like the nickname and started calling him that. It was all fun until he flicked me mercilessly in the forehead just cuz he said the next person who calls him that is going to get it. I didn't know he meant physical harm! That... idiot! I'm calling him that whether he likes it or not now!"
Aww, it looks like I missed such a fun event...
"Yeah, I get where you're coming from, and would do the exact same thing if I were in your shoes."
"I know right!" Kotori returned feeling upbeat momentarily. "...We're getting off track, so weird announcement just then-"
"Hey, Koto." I placed a hand over her shoulder putting on a stern expression.
"Yes...?"
"I just want you to know there'll be many chances for you to show off your worth to us. Never know what could happen here which we- they might need your supposed skills. After all, you're one of the chosen few given the honor to be my classmate due to your grand fortune and talented individualism I suppose... There's still worth in you until I say otherwise. Alright?"
...I'm really not use to motivating people. It's easier to mock, provoke, and degrade them! In baseball games, from my VIP front seater, saying hey batter, hey batter... swing! Never gets old! However for the sake of my future goals, I must practice in occasionally giving them a push in the right direction.
"Heh, you don't need to tell my super lovely luck self that!" Kotori confidently and contently puffed out her chest placing a hand over it. "After all, I'm the one and only Super High School Level Good Luck here and there's nothing that can take that away from me-"
"Hello, hopefully I'm not interrupting anything important." Someone's husky voice spoke cutting us off. "After all, trash like me can't hope to understand the complexities of your hope infectious discussions. Though most people instead say that I'm not the best when it comes to reading the mood or something along those lines. Anyway. Apologies in advance for my disturbance."
A tall and skinny, sickly pale young man with messy, shoulder-length white hair approach us wearing blue rectangular spectacles over his light gray-green eyes. He is wearing an open black parka jacket with a twin long antennae hoodie over his head, red and green striped sweater vest over his white collared shirt, and tied around the collar is a brown tie, black jeans with a small skull charm attached, and black-white double zipped shoes. His right hand carries a small cardboard box while his left hand has nothing but a gray mitten with dark stripes.
"Looks like there's someone that you missed" I mentioned. "Either that or you counted wrong, do we need to get Yuki to help you out with your number counting?"
"No, no, I'm positive I've never seen this one until now." Kotori huffed, then turned toward him. "Or... that I forgot...? Did I forget about you!? Please tell me I didn't and don't lie!"
If she did, then he would have a difficult time answering.
"Although it would be understandable for anyone to forget about trash like me when encountering other Super High School Levels, I can honestly say this is the first time you recall meeting me."
Another Super High School Level? ...No, something is off about this one...
"Ah, what a relief~ That would've made such an inconsiderate person if I forgot someone so soon! Not to mention my information becoming an inaccuracy and I never hear the end of it from Nakamura-chan..." Kotori muttered on the last part.
Well, I won't complain having another playmate to add to my collection so its all good.
"So pretty boy..." I directed his attention toward me. "What is your name, and what can you offer to the table?"
"My name?" He gave a puzzled expression. "There is no reason for someone dazzling as yourselves to know my name. It's insignificant for me to even be in your very presence. When you say what I can offer to the table, I assume you are asking about my Super High School Level talent. I'm... someone who doesn't have a talent worth mentioning. I'm merely an observer here to watch the magnificent event that's about to happen... Having the opportunity to watch up close such a tremendous and extravagant event is a great honor befitting of the Super High School Level Observer. Don't you agree?"
Wow, that's a really big inferior complex he's got, even Megu isn't at his level.
"Sure...?"
"Hm, you know... You're just as strange as the other Super High School Levels I met." Kotori compared.
Like your one to talk.
"Ah! No one has ever gave me such a compliment as sublime as that before. To be put in the same boat as you guys is a honor I don't deserve!" Observer smiled in ecstasy.
That wasn't a compliment! Or... was it...?
"So... Super High School Level Observer... You're different from the rest I met. You appear to know what game awaits us."
"..."
"I'll take that as a yes. And, if I heard right, you sound like you're not taking part in this game. In other words, you're an accomplice!"
"Brilliant deduction! Though, a little too brilliant... That tone of which you call your situation a game... A specific way to put it for someone who is suppose to have no clue what's going on." Observer suspiciously pointed out.
Very perspective for someone who calls himself trash. Still, I can't let him know about that voice I heard.
"You're not looking at an average schoolboy. The thing is... I'm not an ordinary person. I'm... an extraordinary one...! Don't underestimate my skills!"
"Of course I wouldn't do something as presumptuous as that. I can tell you're not ordinary. After all, you didn't asked once to explain what's going on or what's going to happen to you. This whole situation only excites you. A very abnormal way to process this game. Most would either panic, get worked up, or both."
"Well what can I say. I hate to spoil the surprises our host has done considerable efforts like keeping us detained. They better not disappoint me."
"My luck has always lead to nothing but happy times and satisfying results. This is just one of those times!" Kotori assured.
"My personal opinions don't matter but I say you two pass as Super High School Levels. Well, anyway, I will give the same response as I did with the other symbols of hope. All will be answered once you enter inside the gymnasium. Prepare and brace yourselves for what lies ahead." Observer spoke quite solemn on his recent statement. "Oh right, I'll give these to you two as well."
"What is this?" Kotori tried examining what kind of object this is. "Some electric rectangular, black android?
"Sort of. They are called ElectroIDs."
ElectroIDs?
"What's this? It's not working?" I kept pressing the on switch over and over.
"The reason is because they're not all wirelessly in sync yet. That'll change once the game begins."
This device has great durability for a coverless android...
"Kurenai-kun. Hideyoshi-san." Observer gave a short bow and made his exit.
"..."
"Wait, how did he know our names?" Kotori wondered. "Also why does it feel like a part of my existence has been just diminished...?"
"He's obviously aware what's going on around here, so it shouldn't be surprising he knows something simple as our names."
"...Ah! Kurenai-chan. We need to get going and met up with the others. Let's charge on ahead!" Kotori dashed away.
"Yeah, yeah." I leisurely kept pace following after her.
We eventually made it to the gymnasium's entrance where the rest of the first group seemed to have been waiting for us.
"What took you two so long?" Washisuke scowled.
"I have the tendency to be fashionably late." I responded.
"Were you worried about us, huh Bakashu-chan~?" Kotori asked provokingly.
*FLICK*
"Ow, that still stings! I can't believe you did that again! A guy repeatedly picking on an innocent girl... You... Bakashu-chan!"
"What are you, some kind of masochist? Guess I'll find out soon enough." Washisuke began to position himself for another. "Third times the charm I suppose."
"Easy, Suke-kun." Reita requested. "What's a few minutes. Patience is a virtue."
"We got a mellow beat in motion, you shouldn't ruin it." Hayato loosely advised.
"Whatever." Washisuke easily halted his advance.
...Usually, I be the first to punish any guy who lays a hand on a helpless girl being the upstanding gentleman I am, but... I'm content with this level of discipline since she deserves it. Innocent? Yeah right!
"I'm going to find where the others are." Kotori announced before leaving.
"Okay, not counting Hideyoshi-san, we now need to wait for the other seven." Reita announced.
"Seven, don't you mean eight?" I corrected.
Or we do have another who is in need of some tutoring from Yuki?
"I know everyone else except Reita-chan here has met the eight new students." Isao confirmed.
"Eight? So I didn't mishear... I only met seven new ones. I visited every inch of the place, well... except for the infirmary- ! I see!"
"Strange, I thought someone of your talent would visit there first..." I believed.
"Yeah, that is logical assumption, but since middle school I avoided school infirmaries due to some... trauma I faced in my past... Obviously, its a different story for regular infirmaries, and morgues! What kind of forensic biologist would I be if I can't step in foot of one!?"
"An odd one."
I think he should be asking what kind of person he is instead...
"Anyway, I'll be sure to greet him or her when they arrive!"
"I'm sure C-"
"Speak not another word! I wish to be surprised!"
"Yeah, I get that feeling."
Not like any difference would change by telling him.
Enough dilly dallying, time to open the door.
*RATTLE* *RATTLE*
It's not opening...?
"Th-The door is locked." Megumi stated.
"Thanks Einstein, I really had no idea after I tried." I sarcastically remarked.
"S-Sorry!"
"It's alright. Though why did that announcement tell us to come to a place that's closed off?"
"That strange announcement was directed to all new students so its likely assumed that everyone must assemble here before we're permitted to enter." Isao informed.
"Makes sense when you apply common sense." Chiyome commented.
So that's why no one has entered inside. Is that why Koto left to get the others? She tried and came to this conclusion...?
"I see you also got one of those ElectroIDs." Isao noticed. "Was it from... that hooded person? The one who refers to himself as Super High School Level Observer or Observer for short. Me, I personally call him Observer-chan!"
I coolly nod my head in response.
"It's uncommon for me to ask for a second opinion." I humbly admitted. "What are some of your thoughts about Observer? Something about him makes my skin crawl in a not so unpleasant way... "
"Hmm, that's a tough one to answer right now..." Isao admitted. "One thing I know for certain, he isn't our ally since he's withholding important information from us."
"I-I believe he's a civil, nice, and relaxed person!" Megumi blurted out. "Though... he's a bit, overly pessimistic... I-I'm afraid people might take advantage of his helpful nature..."
"The second half is a good example calling the kettle black." Chiyome declared. "That boy smiles all friendly and appears to be harmless however there's a certain danger I never felt before decaying out of him... Something ominous..."
"O-Ominous?"
Well, there's no better word I can label this feeling I have of him.
"Indeed, when a tried to use force by placing a kunai milliliters from his throat in order to make him answer our questions. ...In response, he just smiled. From then, I realized he would rather die right now then reveal any secrets to us without hesitation. Those secrets are more precious than his own life. His loyalty to this cause is admirable I must admit."
Those types are such a handful to deal with...
"Knowing that, I believe you're wise enough to hear my warning. It's best he's avoided when possible." Isao advised strongly. "As a private eye, I see nothing good would amount to being near him. Call it a gut feeling. There's no basis so you're free to listen or not."
"...What are your thoughts of him Koto, Koto-?" I asked. "Oh, right she left..."
How odd of me to forget... Though what's more odd is...
"Megu!" I called out her pet name.
"Y-Yes!" Megumi instinctually hid behind Washisuke. "I-Is there a problem?"
"Personal space..." Washisuke grumbled to himself.
"That is the problem?" I pointed at the scene. "First, how come you're acting extra scared around me lately? Second, why are you hiding behind Washi? Third, if you should be hiding behind anyone, then why not the super cool highly skilled ninja!?"
"At least someone sees that error of judgment..." Chiyome growled.
"W-Well..." Megumi struggled finding the correct words while twiddling her thumbs.
"Oh, I know!" Reita realized. "It's because what Kenzo-kun did while he was taking a nap."
"That's... surprisingly correct..." Isao amazed clapping his hands. "You see when she tried to wake you up, you wrapped yourself around her and-"
"You poorly tickled her!" Reita finished feeling quite pleased on having the last word.
"Huh?"
"What's wrong? You're face looks astonishing troubled?"
"It's nothing..."
"Musica, what exactly makes you think what he did was tickling on any level?" Washisuke asked uneasily. "When each of us attempted to pry her off of him, he got to have a little piece of everyone that were inside the room at the time by switching his captive like sushi on a convey belt."
"Until me." Chiyome interrupted. "His instincts were wise to back off as soon as I swung out my kunai."
"Obviously by the innocent joyful expression on his face while he was doing the deed, however his skills were sadly poor as asleep he couldn't successfully motion his hands quite right! He was only able to stroke, pet, and grab our bodies while none of us gave so much as a light chuckle!" Reita explained. "What else could he have been doing?"
"No my mistake, you're completely right. He was so tickling us." Washisuke sighed exhaustedly.
"It's important to not only admit ones mistakes, but learn from them. Remember that."
Well this explains why I had an extra special pleasant nap. So it was that Washi was referring to in his letter.
"So, you don't remember any of this even in your subconscious?" Hayato asked curiously.
"Nope." I shortly responded.
What I can only recall is the faint fading sensation of their bodies~ It pales in comparison to the real depth of physical contact while your actually conscious!
"Megu, I can understand a shy girl like you probably felt scared for having some stranger touch you in a playfully manner." I walked toward her till only a wall of Washisuke stood between us and begun to whisper to her. "But you must understand I was in no control over my actions so you can only blame yourself for getting too close. Know it was solely your fault yet I'll forgive you, now jump into my arms and let's reconcile with a tight embrace...!"
"...!" Megumi shyly burrowed further into the Washisuke's back.
"Kekeke, I'm only kidding."
"M-Meanie..." Megumi muffled into his shirt.
"My bad. I just wanted to see your cute reaction, is that a serious crime?"
"Not... technically." Reita admitted out loud.
"Exactly, and no eavesdropping even though its not intentional super hearer Rei." I warned before focusing back my attention to her. "...Know your worries are unnecessary for I'm not the type to consciously caress someone without a very good reason I assure you. Remember what you ask of me?"
"Y-Yes." Megumi responded. "D-Do you still plan to have a burden and a downer like me around? You didn't teasing me just now to weasel out of the obligation you made."
"Of course and of course not, but that doesn't mean I can't have a little fun along the way. You don't completely dislike the special attention I give you after all, right?" I winked.
"...U-Umm." Megumi detached herself from Washisuke and made eye contact with me revealing a redden face. "Only a little, because... they're your personal feelings for me and I know there's no hatred mixed into them..."
"Okay, that's one problem solved!" I announced to everyone, then begun to hear footsteps. "Looks like Koto and the second act has finally arrive."
"I found them~" Kotori happily declared.
"It's nice to meet everyone again." Zenji greeted. "Are you aware there is a white haired-"
"The second act? For some reason hearing that coming from your mouth, sounds like an insult." Ayumi grouchily interrupted.
"If you wish, you can say they're the first act, in other words the opening act." Takeshi suggested.
"A headliner." Naoto added.
"My remark seemed to have backfired..." I realized. "However saying that we're opening act including myself in that group is a grave error. To start I'll list fifteen thoroughly descriptive points that-"
"Let us cease this topic of discussion before a group skirmish arises from this." Zenji calmly recommened.
"He is right. This is meaningless and a waste of time." Yukiko agreed.
"Yes, Kurenai-san should just drop...~" Benibara sweetly proposed, mouthing one to me. "Dead."
"If Yuki and Beni-hime say so, I'll let it go." I decided.
"So what took you lot so long?" Washisuke asked.
"There were... some complications..." Takeshi smiled.
"Complications?"
"Yes, before meeting Hideyoshi-san for the first time, the lot of us agreed to meet back at the ruined auditorium to exchange information after searching around. Also since Ryuzaki-san was probably still there."
"Due to the earthquake, the speakers got busted up real bad, so he wouldn't have heard the announcement to come to the gymnasium." Yukiko informed. "Since the announcement required all of us, it was inevitable we had to fetch him."
"It was then a certain someone thoughtlessly slammed the door open hittin him in the process. Ouch." Ayumi mentioned.
"I'm alright. Luckily, I turned away so the impact only hit my backside." Zenji looked on the positive side.
"I see." I nodded my head deeply faking sympathy.
"You say that but you were unconscious for a few minutes, it took us a while before we even notice you, and you might have a concussion." Naoto looked on the negative side.
"Hmm, can we drop the subject already~?" Benibara whined. "I said I was sorry~!"
"Hey..." I extended my finger to another direction. "...By the way... What's going on over there?"
"...A game of cat and mouse, nyan." Sharaku expertly defined.
"No! No! Nooooooooooooooooo...!" Reita ran wildly around the limited space room.
"REITA-CHAN...!" Cinnamon chased after him with a slightly creepy, lovey dovey expression. "It's really you! It's been whole two years!"
"She... She...! It can't be! N-Not her! This has to be some sort of dream!"
"Some would call our fateful encounter a dream, I like to call it destiny~! Reita-chan. Reita-chan! Reita-chan...!"
That gleeful excited voice replaced her previously formal one. Stranger things have happen I suppose.
"Say my name no more! What pure malicious, sadistic villain is heartless enough to imprison me with the likes of her...!?"
"Come now, there's no need to be melodramatic~ "
"Gacck! Get away you beasty woman!"
"Don't be like that sweetie, it's not like I'll sexually attack you."
"No means no! We were finished in the past two years!"
"Can we just stay as friends?"
"Your eyes says the opposite!"
"Says the one who covers theirs." Cinnamon gave a pouty expression.
"Cat and mouse indeed." I agreed.
"Aww, there's nothing like young sweet love to make my heart race~" Benibara sweetly moaned.
"It looks more sick than sweet." Ayumi gagged.
"So this is what it looks like on the outside. The chased by fans bit is a painful experience for both sides." Naoto concluded.
"That sounds similar, but... I think this goes pass overly excited admiration, right?" Hayato believed.
"Nakamura-san, you know something, don't you private eye?" Yukiko deduced. "So what's the story, did they date each other or something?"
"Yeah, those two dated, though their history goes way beyond what you expect from a normal relationship. They weren't lovers or super intimidate as one would naughtily imply from my previous statement." Isao elaborated. "Let's leave it at that. I wouldn't want to reveal their private life for no valid cause."
"You were aware of this, yet you didn't warn him... Could there have been some inner purpose behind this perhaps?" Takeshi guessed.
"Nothing grand as that. Based on what I know, I was only curious what would transpire if they meet unaware of the other so I kept my mouth shut and let things play out."
"Good call." I gave a thumbs up. "It's quiet amusing to see how the hero type classmate is now fleeing away from a mere girl."
"This is not fleeing, its strategy!" Reita countered. "And now for part two!"
"Damn it, why do you idiots insist on making me your f*cking human shield!?" Washisuke growled.
"Because you're a Bakashu-chan!" Kotori countered.
"Shut up!"
"That's what I'd like to know! Why do they turn to a street thug for protection when a ninja lies before them! It's a mockery and a stain on my pride. To restore it, I challenge you to a duel!" Chiyome had taken a stance.
"Seriously? This is no time to be joking around!"
"I happen to be very serious about this."
"That makes it worse!"
"Wow, Washisuke-kun is really popular." Hayato amazed.
"U-Um, should we try to stop them?" Megumi asked.
"Which pair do you mean? Rei and Cina, or Washi and Chiyo?" I wondered.
"She's obviously is referrin to both." Ayumi pointed out.
"No matter. I think its best to leave it alone and see how things play out."
"That's a very poor decision."
"Well, its mine to make, so lets sit down, relax, and enjoy the show-"
Unfortunately, by the time I was getting nice and comfy, Zen already managed to resolve the conflict... Spoilsport!
"Suppose there's plenty of time for me and my sweet Reita-san to catch up for lost time. I got a little carried away there." Cinnamon ceased her advance.
"Bakushu-san isn't armed with his specialty. Fighting him now would be meaningless." Chiyome withdrew her weapons.
"Looks like I get to live to see another day." Reita overly relieved. "I must admit I kind of overreacted."
"Get off my back already." Washisuke threw him across the room.
"Bakushu-san..." Cinnamon smiled awkwardly, walking up to him with her hands in her pockets. "Tossing my beloved isn't acceptable."
"Hey, Karakuri-san, get you and your hidden bloodlust away from him." Chiyome blocked her path. "He's my prey already so I politely ask you to get in line."
"What if I don't want to? What if I can't wait?"
"Oi, I don't need anyone to protect-" Washisuke started complaining.
"Stay out of this!"
"Stay out of this!"
"..."
"Wow, Washisuke-kun is really really popular!" Hayato amazed again.
"Popularity isn't always a good thin." Ayumi mentioned.
"True that." Naoto supported. "Instead of boy-girl scuffles, its now escalated into a cat fight, and trust me when I know what a cat fight is. I've seen so many the sight of one makes my very ears bleed in sickness."
"A fight between two real cats is more inysufferable than what you're use to, nyan." Sharaku declared.
"Th-That is a horrifying image." Megumi cringed.
"More importantly..." Isao changed the subject. "I'm a little interested to see how this plays out."
"Karakuri-san, and Mochizuki-san." Zenji softly called out both their names.
"...Right." Chiyome complied.
"...Right." Cinnamon complied.
"Apologies."
"Me too."
"I just don't like it when people try to take my prey away from me. My target is mine and mine alone..."
"I can get where you're coming from. My sweet target is mine and mine alone."
"Seems we have our own respectable type of prey."
"Indeed. Let's wish each other luck on our respectable targets."
"Yes, lets."
They sealed it with a handshake. It's quite beautiful but there's only one thing that comes to my mind.
"Zenji-chan sure is a spoilsport." Isao pouted.
Exactly.
"There's nothing wrong with preventing blood from being spilled." Reita patted his shoulder.
"You look hardly hurt." Ayumi noticed.
"Yeah, Suke-kun didn't throw me hard, he actually held back."
"Only because I would've had to carry your body to the infirmary if I actually did some damage." Washisuke commented.
"Oh, I thought Bakushu-san hurt you badly. My mistake for almost..." Cinnamon paused midsentence. "Anyway! If you did, don't worry, I'll would take great care of Reita-chan~"
"Please don't!" Reita cried out.
"It hasn't been one school day, and I know a couple pairs I ship together..." Benibara mumbled.
"Hey, if everyone's here now, why don't we go in already?" Hayato wondered.
"That's a good question." Naoto proceeded to open the door.
"Wait." Isao stopped him.
"What?"
"Can we wait a little bit longer?"
"Is there some kind of inner purpose to this one?" Takeshi asked.
"You can call it that... Mostly, I like to test our host's impatience. Plus, we don't want to have them believing we're desperate for answers."
"We are, nyan." Sharaku bluntly stated.
"Yes, but they don't need to know that. It's better to play hard to get than it is to be desperate on any level. Like when a girl gives a boy her number, he wouldn't call right away and wait a while, right?"
"Right." I agreed.
Though to me, desperation is cute while playing hard to get is sexy. There's no real fair way to compare the two.
"Let's see how they respond to a little civil disobedience to their illegal kidnapping."
"That idea sounds asinine however I'm curious how'll our kidnappers will react." Yukiko wondered. "Will they send people to make us comply?"
If they intend to use physical force, then I really doubt they send Observer to handle that task since he doesn't appear to be the fighting type. Which means...
"Once they do, I'll swiftly eliminate them by deadly means if necessary while keeping one at least conscious or at most barely alive." Chiyome assured.
"She's not putting on airs, she really intends to go through with that." Naoto mentioned, observing her.
"Nakamura-san, I wouldn't recommend going through with that plan." Zenji advised.
Hm, what's this faint noise I'm hearing...?
"Come on, Zenji-kun, where's your sense of adventure? Give his plan a chance. What's the worse that can happen?" Reita questioned. "...Wait, do you hear that?"
"Hear what?" Benibara confused.
"I don't hear anything." Takeshi tried listening closely. "Are you feeling well?"
"No, he's right. ...I can hear a mechanyical sounyd, nyan." Sharaku affirmed.
"Oh, I can it too now, the sound is getting louder." Hayato noticed.
"It's coming from behinyd us, nyan..."
We turn around to see the doors have silently opened up and attached on the ceiling several yards away steadily getting into position is...
"A-A m-machine gun...!?" Megumi exclaimed.
"To elaborate, its a m134 minigun." I corrected. "Which is a type of machine gun with Gatling gun features which was first made by the U.S. It can fire approximately two thousand to six thousand rounds per minute using-"
"Seriously, this is no time for a lecture!" Ayumi scolded.
"This is bad... It'll be... difficult to treat everyone if I'm gravely injured." Cinnamon worried.
"We need to make a run for it!" Washisuke tried to open the gymnasium doors. "Damn! They're not opening!"
Not only they're impatience but also one to not take a test of patience lightly.
"Where else? It's not like we can go forward. Or can we?" Ayumi ran ahead.
Only for the machine gun to fire a single horizontal row of six when she reached a certain distance within its range.
"That plan busted."
"Yeah, if I continued, I would be literally running to my death. "
"Right, we need to take cover somewhere before the real onslaught begins." Naoto briefed.
"Then lets take refuge in those corners." Isao pointed.
"Will that really work?" Washisuke questioned.
"Yes, according to what I see, that machine gun stuck into the wall isn't designed to rotate fully, meaning it can only fire a wide ninety degree straight." I notified. "So we'll be safe if we take cover there."
"Unless it ricochets." Yukiko spoke, spreading negatively among the group.
"Perhaps we should close the entrance doors in front of it just in case?" Reita suggested.
"No, both would be absolutely meaningless ideas, with its deadly and awesome fire power, it'll cut through the surface walls as it would gruesomely pierce our flesh and bones in less than a second!" I enthusiastically described the massacre.
"That's... reassuring..." Zenji supported.
Everyone secluded themselves in a safe area. Almost everyone...
"What are you two doing?" Ayumi exclaimed.
"My feet are frozen solid! I can't move!" Megumi cried out.
"Worry not everyone, I don't feel the need to act, so my luck will not allow me to get hurt! No need to worry about me!" Kotori proclaimed.
...
"I don't really care that much and am aware how foolish it is to bring this question out but... Shouldn't someone recklessly try to save them?" Yukiko asked.
"...I won't save someone who has no interest in being saved." Chiyome declared.
"As a host, I'm strictly compelled to not oppose the wishes of others." Takeshi proclaimed.
"I'm not the athletic type." Naoto shrugged his shoulders excusing himself.
Not surprising, we all just practically met, and are strangers to one another. Except myself, only an idiot would selflessly-
"Don't worry, I got this!" Reita took charge.
"No, don't leave me!" Cinnamon grabbed him from his back.
"G-Gah, Cinnamon! This isn't the time!"
"I'm not letting you get yourself killed! Don't worry, I'll take good care of her whether she's alive or dead."
"That doesn't reassure me at all!"
"Idiots, you're useless." Washisuke growled, then sprinted forward with two arms spread wide open. "Get over there!"
"Hii!" Megumi got lariat from her side with his right arm.
"No thank you Bakashu-kun~!" Kotori ducked, avoiding his left arm.
"Dammit!"
Those two should be barely out of the gun's range of fire so they should be fine... As for Koto, I thought about going to her aid, but...
Silence filled up the room for one moment, then...
*RAT-TA-TA-TA-TA-TA-TAT!*
The machine gun fires echoed loudly throughout the room.
Ours ears rang to death, gunpowder clouded our sight, and our hearts skip a beat. Every shot was at too close for comfort. We stayed still until our sight and hearing returned to the norm. While we were momentarily deaf, I bet some people were screaming their lungs off... Also due to limited space, some instinctually held onto others. It's odd how being embraced through fear feels so nice.
"Enjoy cuddling up to me kitty-kitty~?" I purred into his ear and slide my hand across his back.
"...!" Sharaku hissed.
"OW!"
He bit me my hand!
The smoke hasn't cleared up but at least the ringing in my ears has ceased completely.
"Is everyone alright?" Takeshi asked.
"It's awful! My dress is a slightly wrinkly!" Benibara complained.
"Better that than being covered in holes and blood!" Hayato cheerily stated.
"As far as I can tell, none of us suffered any physical damage to the machine gun. Those who hide inside the corners that is..." Chiyome informed.
"Hey, Megu, Washi, how are you doing?" I called out.
"We're fine!" Megumi spoke. "...B-Bakushu-san, u-um thank-"
"Hideyoshi! Hideyoshi!" Washisuke called out.
"Calm yourself Washi." I ordered. "If you keep shouting, I might think you actually care what happens to her."
"I don't! I just rather not have nightmares over not saving her when I add the chance on my conscience! ...You knew her the longest yet you didn't do anything."
"And that's the reason I came to this conclusion... Why not just let her have her way?" I responded. "This is a good chance to see whether her good luck is comparable to us chosen ones."
"That's what I wish to see too. From the data I gathered on her... Information is one thing, but actually seeing something unbelievable with my own eyes is another." Isao hummed.
"Her behavior can be categorized as either asinine or completely illogical. So much that its quite the phenomenon and draws my curiosity." Yukiko stated. "And her luck is the source of it."
"At least you're all honest with yourselves..." Naoto sighed.
The smoke begun to settle.
"Let's see whether she is alive or not?" Cinnamon spoke whimsically.
"You haven't changed one bit..." Reita voiced his concern. "Though its not a surprise to me."
Once the smoke has cleared, a thought came across my mind. Luck has always been an unnecessary concept in my life. You're not born with it nor you can obtain it, therefore it's not a real talent. Why does Kibiugamine consider it one? I've always relied on my pure skills and dashing good looks to get by in life. That hasn't changed and never will. I don't know when but it became common for me to believe commoners must constantly cling to luck to survive so I reject the idea of relying on it or its existence in my world replacing it with words like coincidence or probability. What I saw next, it didn't change my opinion no matter how miraculous the sight was.
"Yahoo, didn't I say you had nothing to worry about?" Kotori reminded. "After all, I'm... I'm... Darn it! I was going to say something real cool like and forgot what it was! Okay, something something, luck something something... Just imagine the coolest thing one would say involving luck and roll with that!"
Koto... She was not only alive, but she was completely unscathed... The bullets missed and were all screwed into the floor around her.
"How is this even possible!?" Ayumi exclaimed.
"No, it's impossible..." Benibara spoke in denial.
"If I wasn't seeing with my own eyes I would believe that too. This is real." Naoto confirmed.
"It's a miracle!" Reita claimed.
"The only thing that can make it more unbelievable is if the bullets turned her into Swiss cheese and she survived. Of course at that point she wouldn't be considered human." Chiyome viewed.
"A M134 Minigun isn't designed for spot-on accuracy yet it doesn't make the situation any more astonishing than it already is." I informed.
"The probability of her survival was less than one percent. Despite that, she lives... This is indeed an astonishing site~ Amazing!" Yukiko pleased.
"Looks like my sources and those rumors were true after all, her luck is extraordinary." Isao noted.
"Not just extraordinary... It's maximum! It's absolute! It's... my best redeeming quality!" Kotori boasted.
"She seems perfectly healthy. Looks like I won't be able treat her the way I wanted..." Cinnamon pouted.
"Hideyoshi, you-! ...Forget it. This whole day has been so tiresome I don't have the strength left to reprimand that stunt of yours." Washisuke sigh exhausted. "Just don't pull something like that again..."
"From this, we learned our captures have deadly means to make us comply and mindlessly going against them isn't the the wisest course of action." Isao confirmed. "Not to mention I got to witness her transcending luck with my own eyes..."
"That doesn't sound like an apology for nearly getting us killed with your blasted idea." Naoto glared.
"Why would I need to apologize?" Isao smiled innocently. "In the end, there were no casualties, and for those who would use what if in your next sentence to rebuttal... Don't bother, because the world is full of what ifs, they are merely things that could've happened but didn't. This is a reality, not your fantasy. That's all you need to know on the matter."
"No harm, no foul is what you're saying." I clarified. "And you have a point."
"Glad someone can see the pros behind this small incident. Plus if you do continue to point fingers, let me remind you none of you tried to stop my plan nor did I threaten anyone to comply. In my book, that makes you as liable as me, wouldn't it?"
"Which is why no one is holding this incident against you and we can move forward! H-Hahaha..." Reita assured.
"..." Naoto momentarily scowled at Reita, before returning his glare on Isao.
Isa doesn't feel fazed at the slightest by this event and even called the incident small. It's possible that he has already done things as dangerous as this in order to obtain the information he seeks. Though, its only a hunch.
"Hey, I think Zenji-kun is sleeping?" Hayato mentioned.
"So?" Ayumi said uncaring.
"Isn't a bad thing people who have concussions to sleep?"
"Ah, that's right... !"
"What did I tell you!?" Cinnamon rushed over to him and shook him violently. "Wake up this second Ryusaki-san!"
"Hm?" Zenji opened his eyes. "Karakuri-san? Why are you shaking me?"
"I should be the one asking questions not you. What were you doing sleeping young man? I told you shouldn't while the possibility you have a concussion remains!"
"Hehehe..."
"You think this is funny?" Cinnamon glared daggers at him.
"Certainly not. I believe there's a misunderstanding here. I wasn't sleeping. I was blocking out sound in preparation of the loud gunshots. You see, I'm not really a fan of such."
"Block out sounyd, nyan?" Sharaku echoed.
"Yes, in order to do so I needed to close my eyes."
"Hm, as whack as it sounds, he's telling the truth." Naoto stated.
"Oh..." Cinnamon released her hold. "W-Well you shouldn't had me jump to conclusions! And I was enjoying wrapping around my sweet beloved!"
"Forgive me for leading you astray." Zenji apologized. "I'll behave and try not to be an inconvenience to you. As your temporary patient, I'm thankful to be in the hands of a trusted and capable doctor like yourself. As long as I'm in your care, I'll be sure to obey your every word."
"...If you're going to be that way, I suppose I'll forgive you this once."
"I appreciate your understanding."
"Hey, Zenyji-san, you have to teach me that sounyd blocking technyique of yours, nyan." Sharaku demanded.
"Calling it a technique is an exaggeration and has its flaws... Beside, I believe there's something else we all need to do first."
"That being, nyan?"
"Getting inside the gymnasium unless we want to risk escape death twice." Yukiko explained. "Hideyoshi-san might be fine with it but I'm not taking my chances."
"Yeah, let's go." Reita agreed.
"I do wonder what truly awaits us." Takeshi started walking to the door.
"Before we go, I have something that I'm going to say and you will listen..." I gave a smug expression and made a stylish pose. "Koto, Washi, Rei, Haya, Chiyo...-san!, Isa, Megu, Neko-chan, Yuki, Cina, Beni-hime, Zen..., Take, Ayu, and Nao! My semi-precious classmates, what I desire from each of you aside from entertainment purposes is to be true to yourselves. Never be something you're not. While doing so... Be strong... Be beautiful... Be graceful with a passable enough standing, you chosen have the responsibility to uphold your place and never give in to what difficulties that lie ahead. As my fellow classmates, I won't console any weaklings whom fall below my expectations as long as you inhibit my world. So you better keep up otherwise... I'll leave you behind~! Are we clear?"
"I felt your very soul in those words." Naoto placed a hand over his chest.
"Why suddenly bring this up now?" Isao wondered. "It's either a little late or a little early to say that."
"Sounds like something a person who's about to die say." Yukiko morbidly mentioned. "Or to someone who's about to die."
"S-Scary..." Megumi shook with uneaseness.
"Don't say strange stuff like that." Washisuke warned. "It's not needed."
"Not to mention a complete overreaction." Hayato hummed. "It'll all be fine if we go with the flow."
"Heh. For once, what he says isn't complete nonsense."
"Obviously, Kurenai can't help but hear himself talk." Ayumi teased.
"Yes, there is nothing more to what goes on in that simpleton's head, and it's not worth giving a second thought on." Chiyome stated.
"Don't be mean even though it's absolutely true~!" Benibara smirked.
"Is that really all there is to it?" Kotori question with an emotionless expression. "Why are you saying this now, Kurenai-chan? ...Are you okay?"
"I'm fine. The reason... Could be anything really." I nonchalantly shrugged my shoulders. "Who knows? ...Maybe its because of this situation we're in, I feel if I don't say this now, I might not get the chance or feel like saying it again."
Everyone left it at that, and we all entered the gymnasium.
Sorry for ending before the big moment, I'm trying to shorten the words of these updates but I find the matter most difficult at the moment. The next time will be the end of the prologue and the story can finally begin! Stay tune, because I believe it'll come sooner than you think~