Chapter 10: One Last Thing Before the Festival
All of Hinamizawa is in an uproar over the upcoming festival. People are running back and forth; preparing for it. Everyone is staying busy to help get ready.
Today, our club is working to clean off some old items, which are going to be sold at an auction. Our work mostly consists of dusting, and polishing. The work is simple, and I am enjoying being with my friends. It is more fun to work when you have someone to talk to and keep you company. Not to mention, I couldn't ask for a better group of friends.
Keiichi is having a hard time with his work. Apparently, Mion volunteered him for this without asking him. I chuckle as I remember his complaining. That's just like Mion.
I hear Keiichi complaining again, from across the table. It seems that he doesn't understand the point of all this work. "It's not like any of this stuff is going to sell anyways! It's all junk!"
"That may be true Keiichi, but it's still our job to clean it up. We can't slack, since we are being depended upon." I reply.
He sighs. "Man, this is all Mion's fault. I was planning on spending the whole day doing nothing, but she had to sign me up for this."
I chuckle. "You know Mion. She can't let our Kei-chan slack off, for even one day."
He lets out another sigh and continues working. A bit later, Mion walks in. She asks how the work is going, and announces that she had the larger items sent to the shrine. Hearing that there is more work to do, Keiichi becomes dejected.
It's my turn to sigh. "Come on Keiichi. Lighten up. You aren't going to die or anything."
Mion adds to my efforts. "It's okay Keiichi. There's nothing to get so depressed about. Here, I even brought something for you guys to snack on."
Mion brings out a large box of ohagi. The, bean-paste covered, rice balls look delicious. My mouth waters as I look at them. Suddenly I am gripped by curiosity. "Did you make these yourself, Mion?"
"Nope! Sorry. Baa-chan made these for us." She replies.
"Ah, Sensei made them."
I am a little disappointed that it isn't Mion's cooking, but they still look delicious either way. As I take a bite out of the ohagi, I savor the taste. It is so much more delicious than it would be normally. Doing work like this really makes you appreciate little treats.
As I am finishing up my first ohagi, I notice Keiichi. I am surprised at what I see. He seems to be staring at his ohagi. That's odd. I wonder if he doesn't like ohagi or something. Maybe something just got on it. As I am thinking about it, Rika walks up to him and asks what's wrong.
Keiichi begins explaining to Rika that he is just having a feeling of déjà vu.
I wonder if he's getting the same kind of feeling (feeling works but it would sound better as feelings, or left as feeling and cut kind of. ) that I've been having, recently.
She tells him that there is no such thing as a memory that didn't happen. She begins pushing him for details, but he is a little reluctant. She doesn't let up though. She seems to think that this is extremely important for some reason.
Keiichi continues to explain about this dream that he had. He tells about how he took a day off school for some reason, and Rena, and Mion came with some ohagi. He tries to stop one more time, but Rika is persistent. He finishes what he is saying. "…there was a needle inside."
Right as he finishes, Mion sees him staring at his ohagi. She gets up and tells him that if he doesn't like ohagi, that he doesn't need to eat it. He laughs and says that he's just acting stupid. He takes a bite out of his ohagi to reassure Mion. Mion lets it go, and returns to her seat.
A needle? In his ohagi? Why would Mion and Rena do something like that? Even if it was meant to be a prank. That's just…no. You don't do that." Mions smart enough to know that that's too much.
Rika looks un-phased. She isn't surprised at all like I am. She definitely knows something. I don't have any time to confront her about it, since we have begun to move to the shine.
We resume our work. As I am dusting of the pieces of furniture, I can hear Rena behind me, gawking over every single piece of furniture that crosses her path. It's funny to hear her go crazy of over things that are so simple. I wonder how her mind works sometimes. I'll probably never know.
Taking notice of her passion for the furniture, Shion asks if she is planning on moving out on her own. Rena begins to explain about how her father just started working again, and how she thought that it would be nice to remodel a bit, to celebrate.
Everyone freezes. I'm the first to speak up.
"What do you mean? Your father hasn't been working this whole time?"
She explains that when they lived in Ibaraki, he stopped working, from the shock of the divorce he had. She goes on to say that he never really started back up again, even after they moved back to Hinamizawa. He just bums around all day.
It seems that Rena and her father have been living on the consolation money they got from the divorce. Not only that though. Rena also tells us that he has been wasting a lot of his money on a new woman recently. Rena says that she was shocked to find out about it and because of that, she started to have a strange dream.
The moment she said "dream," Rika became very serious. She asks her what kind of dream it was. Rena begins to explain about a dream where she kills the woman.
Shion is surprised by what Rena has told us. She makes a comment on how she also has been having a strange dream. Keiichi asks her what she means, but she says its nothing. She adds that it was quite the disturbing dream, though. I am surprised that Rika didn't push her like she is doing for Rena.
Keiichi tries to comfort them by saying that it was all just a dream, but Rena doesn't feel like that's true. She tells us that her dream felt so real to her. She begins to explain how she started becoming confused over the matter. She was lost, and didn't know what to do. She felt that if she let the situation be, that her dream would end up becoming true. It seems that she turned to Mion at that point. They had met up together and Rena had told Mion of her situation. Mion was able to comfort her and give her some advice. Because Mion had advised her to talk to her father, she was able to encourage him to get his life on track again.
"That's great, Rena!" I tell her.
"Yeah, I'm glad that I did. He was about to buy her a big apartment." She replies. "I'm glad I talked to Mii-chan about it. I think that it's really important to go to friends for things like this."
We all agree with her. After our discussion, we continue working until we have all the furniture cleaned up. As we are leaving, Rika asks Shion about her dream. Shion says that it's nothing, but Rika asks her not to hide it from her.
"I'm not hiding anything…" Shion says.
Mion fills in for her. She explains that in Shion's dream, she kills Satoko and Mion. Rika then clarifies if she told Mion about her dream. Shion is still unable to answer so Mion steps in again.
"She had this strangely serious face on, so I said to her: Shion, did you kill someone?"
Satoko also spouts out, "Shion-san would never do such a thing!"
Thankful for her encouragement, Shion runs over and hugs Satoko.
I am still thinking about what I have heard. I remember Rena talking about how she killed the woman her father was messing around with, and how Shion had killed Mion and Satoko. Suddenly, images flash across my mind. They are familiar. I had completely forgotten about them, but they are as clear as day to me now. "I think I have seen your dreams."
Everyone turns to me. I continue.
"That night I had a nightmare; I think it was about your dreams."
Everyone is stunned. They have just now remembered about my dream as well. I still have more to say so I continue again.
"I remember seeing Rena. She was cornered like she was before she talked to Mion. She didn't know what to do so she did the only thing she could do. She killed that woman, but she didn't just outright murder her. The woman also tried to murder Rena. I also remember Shion. She was in pain because of her loss of Satoshi. She blamed her family and Satoko for his disappearance so she killed them both."
My mind is conflicting with itself. I feel like there's more to it. Rena and Shion wouldn't kill for those reasons alone.
"Something…was…controlling them…" I try to explain. "I-I don't know. I can't figure it out. They wouldn't do something like that normally. Something…something was wro…something was wrong with them!"
My mind is spinning, trying to wrap itself around what was causing them to act that way. Everyone is becoming worried.
"Mike, calm down. It's ok." Mion comes to me and tries to help me.
My brain hurts. I know that there's something there, but I can't find it. There is some missing piece in my head, but I can't piece it together. I feel like I'm going crazy, or will be soon if I don't figure it out.
My friends have swarmed around me, trying to get me to calm down. They are able to get me back to normal in a minute.
"I feel like I just had an anxiety attack." I explain.
"You're okay now." Mion comforts me.
"You don't need to figure it out Mike-kun." Shion adds.
"Yeah, you might have hurt yourself if we had let you keep going any longer."
"Thanks guys." I reply.
I am thankful for their support. I don't know what go into me. My body is shaking. My head is sore. On top of all that, my back is hurting again. It's not nearly as bad as it usually is, but it still hurts significantly. I feel like something is, slowly, trying to push its way out of my back. I don't tell my friends though. They are already worried about my "breakdown". I don't want to add my back to the problem.
When everything has settled down, and everyone is assured that I'm okay, we begin to head back home. Before we part ways, I look back at Rika. I had been feeling her gaze the entire time we were walking. When I look, I see that her gaze is half worry, and half confusion. I need to ask her about this. I tell Mion to go on ahead. She is curious why, so I just tell her the truth.
"I need to talk with Rika about something. I'll catch up as soon as I can."
She lets it go, and heads off. When I reach Rika, I ask Satoko if she can make it home on her own. She glares at me.
"I'm not a kid, you know." She complains.
"Yes you are." I reply.
She sticks her tongue out at me. She understands that I want to talk with Rika though, and heads off. When she is out of earshot, I turn to the remaining two.
"Rika, Hanyuu. What the heck is going on?!?"
Neither of them answer. They are both staring at the ground.
"Come on you guys! You know something!" They remain still. "Rika, you were all over Keiichi and Rena when they were talking about their dreams. Why? What is so important about that?" Rika says nothing.
I sigh. "Rika, please. I really want to know what's going on. I know that you know something. Please tell me. You trust me don't you?"
She replies, almost too softly for me to hear. "Yes."
I wait for her to explain what's going on. After a few false starts, I help her out by asking yes or no questions.
"Did Keiichi, Rena, and Shion's dreams really happen?"
She hesitates a little before answering. "Yes."
"Auu." Hanyuu says. She is obviously as uncomfortable as Rika is.
I continue my questioning. "Are you being murdered, repeatedly?"
"Yes." She answers.
"Do you know who your murderer is?"
"No."
"Do you know why they want to murder you?"
"No."
As I look at her, I see that she is starting to break down. I walk over and kneel down. I hug her and ask her a question. "Are you scared?" She begins to weep.
"Yes!"
She cries on my shoulder. She has wrapped her arms around my neck. She is clinging to me like she would die if she let go. I comfort her in any way I can.
"It's okay Rika. I won't let them kill you."
Though she is still crying, she objects to my statement.
"You can't stop them. It is fate. I am destined to die, over and over again."
"Don't say that Rika!!! We can fight this. We can be stronger than this "fate" you speak of. Remember what Keiichi taught you the other day at the tournament?"
She gives a small, "yes".
"I promise you that I will do everything in my power, to make sure that you live." I tell her to give her some hope. I want to be prepared so I am eager to gather information on our situation. I wait until Rika has calmed down a bit.
"Can you tell me how I die, so I can be prepared for it?" I ask.
She stares at me for a second before answering. "Mike, this is the first time you have ever come to Hinamizawa."
I am shocked. I had assumed that since everyone else seems to have been here in the past that I also had been here in the past. Hanyuu decides to add something in.
"Auu. We were hoping that you had the key to saving Rika from getting murdered. Ummm…You seem to be, umm…well…special."
"Special? How so?"
"Auu, auu." Her courage fails and she reverts back to her normal shyness again.
Rika picks it up for her. "You have been able to see parts of the other's pasts, and also my own past. You did come out of nowhere as well, so maybe you have some power or something."
Her words sting. She seems to think that there's something strange about me. "Rika. I'm not an…"
She cuts me off. "I know Mike. I'm sorry. I don't mean to call you an alien or anything. I know that you are one-hundred percent human." She smiles at me.
I smile back and the pain I felt a second ago has completely vanished. I crouch down in front of both of them. I put each of my hands on their shoulders. I am surprised when I feel resistance on Hanyuu. She is surprised as well, but I say what I want to say before she can say protest. "I think of you guys as my little sisters. Same thing with Satoko and Shion. I will do anything I can to make sure you guys are safe. Even if it costs me my life, I will do it so you can live. You can come to me anytime you want. If you're feeling scared, you can come to me and I will give you a hug. If you're sad, I will do what I can to comfort you. I believe that I came here for a reason, and that reason is to protect you guys. Not just you and Hanyuu though. It's my job to protect all the club members; maybe others, if they need it."
Rika regains her childish demeanor. She lunges at me, like Mion does occasionally.
"Mii, thank you Mikey!"
Hanyuu is too shy to move in on her own, so I pull her in for a hug as well. She gives out her usual, "Auu, auu," but relaxes after a second. Her face is as red as an apple when I let go. Both Rika and I laugh when we see her face, which only causes her to turn even redder. I am amazed that it is even possible to turn that red.
There is only one more question that I have to ask Rika. "So how do you keep coming back to life? I just might want to use your immortality secret."
She gives an awkward laugh. "It's Hanyuu's power. I don't think that you would want to use it though." She says as she looks towards the ground.
"Well, once we get the guy who's trying to kill you, maybe we will want to be able to relive our lives, and have all this fun again."
Rika smile. "That would be fun, but I just want to grow up once. Nipah!"
I chuckle. "I don't know. I think that you're cuter, younger."
She teases me. "I wonder what Mii would think if I told her you said that."
"Don't you dare! She might seriously take it the wrong way!"
Rika laughs. "Mii trusts you Mikey. Even if I said awful things about you, she would never believe me."
I smile.
She's right.
I look off in the direction Mion went off. Thinking about her makes me wish that she was right here. Rika sees me staring after Mion. "Don't tell me you miss her already."
"I can't help it! If I think about her when she's not here, I start to miss her."
Rika sighs. "I just can't understand you older people."
"You will Rika. Soon you'll know exactly what I mean." I assure her.
We run out of things to talk about, and Rika lets me go, since it's obvious that I am eager to get back to Mion as fast as possible. Before we split ways, I remind her that I'm there for her and that she can come to me if she needs me. I then start running down the path, headed straight for my love.
I am disappointed the next morning. When I woke up, I found that my second sword has disappeared as well. I had forgotten to tie it to my katana the previous night. It has completely vanished out of nowhere.
I don't get it. I don't think someone would have taken it, because they would have done so earlier, when it was tied to the katana.
I set the Katana down after I have examined it.
The old man said that it will show up when you need it most, but that doesn't make sense to me. Are these swords magic, or something?
I let out a huge sigh. I really liked those swords. I was really looking forward to practicing with them.
I finish up my morning tasks, and head out after training. The club members are all meeting at the store, where we had the tournament. We need to gather some supplies for the festival. When I arrive, I find everyone already working.
"You're late!" Mion scolds me.
I make up an excuse that Sensei had training go on for a bit longer than usual. She doesn't buy it. Mion's scowl is pretty scary. I'm unsure what to say to her. Since I'm not saying anything, she walks around behind me, and pushes me into the store.
"Hey, hey! I can walk on my own Mion."
We begin gathering some supplies. I can hear Rena pointing out things that she wants to take. She suggests that we just take them all. I chuckle at her statement. Just like Rena. The owner laughs nervously, thinking we might seriously do so. He comments on how are our jokes are ruthless, and turns to the man next to him for backup.
I am unfamiliar with who the man is. He only just walked in. He has silver hair so I am guessing that he's around fifty to sixty years of age. He has a happy expression on his face. The owner had called him Ooishi-san, so I assume that's his name.
He makes a comment about how youth don't have restraints. Mion makes a comment to him about how he shouldn't be slacking off in the middle of the weekdays. She also calls him "the almighty policeman". I can tell immediately that she doesn't like this man. He replies that today's his day off.
I wonder why Mion doesn't like this guy. He seems okay to me.
Ooishi suggest that we kill some time playing a game called "Chin Chiro Rin" with him. Shion explains that it's a gambling game using dice. Keiichi immediately takes him up on his challenge, but is dismayed to hear that Ooishi gets to choose what we have to roll. He offers to teach Mion how to roll them. He also says that if she can roll snake eyes three times in a row, that he will give us a "special treasure" that will help us out.
Mion is able to roll snake eyes twice so far. I am amazed at her ability to do so. It's not easy to roll the same combination with dice. At first, I thought that his bet was pretty unfair, but Mion seems to be proving me wrong. Ooishi recognizes her ability in the game. He tells her that if she were to debut on the game floors, that she would be pretty popular. He calls her "Mion the Fire Button". I chuckle at the title she was given. I stop after receiving an elbow to the gut, from her.
"Ah, sorry."
She rolls the dice, one more time. I am amazed when the dice all land on one. She has won his bet. We all congratulate her. Ooishi also congratulates her and announces that he has been utterly defeated. Mion is obviously embarrassed that Ooishi is being so nice to her. She is blushing as she thanks him.
A few moments later, a man walks into the store. He greets Ooishi. He returns the greeting. He calls the man Akasaka-san. I hear a small gasp behind me. Rika appears to be in shock at the arrival of this man. She walks up to him and asks if he is Akasaka-san. He replies with, "It's been a long time, Rika-chan."
It seems that they know each other. Rika asks why he has returned to Hinamizawa. Akasaka replies that he and his wife are her for vacation. She seems surprised when he said "wife".
He replies, "The one you saved."
The one she saved?
He explains that Rika had told him that if he didn't go back to Tokyo, that something bad was going to happen. He tells us that he became worried about his wife, so he rushed back to Tokyo. His wife was about to go out onto the balcony like she had been doing for a couple of days, but there was no need when he arrived. He goes on to say that a worker slipped and fell on the stairs, and was severely injured. It could have been Akasaka's wife if he hadn't been there. He thanks Rika for being his family's savior.
She must have known about it from the past. From Rika's reaction, I'm guessing that Akasaka hadn't listened to her till now. Rika looks very happy that he has returned.
The remainder of the day went pretty normally. After we dropped off the supplies, we all headed back home, except for me. I had work today, so I had to finish up before I went home. When I returned home, I did my nightly tasks. I stayed a little longer with Mion than normal. After we finished talking, we just stayed with each other. I think I stayed a little too long, because I ended up falling asleep right there.
There is only one thing that comes up before the festival. Unfortunately it has turned out to be a very serious matter. Satoko has been missing from school, since the last couple of days. When we ask Rika what's going on, she doesn't reply. It's obvious to me that she's in a lot of pain. Shion begs Rika to tell her if something has happened to Satoko. Satoshi, her older brother, had asked Shion to watch over Satoko. It's natural that she is so desperate to find out what's going on. Rika is still silent. Finally after Chie-Sensei asks what's going on, Rika replies, "Shut up. I'm going home."
I recognize that way of speaking from her. She clearly doesn't feel like putting on her childish side in this situation. Chie-Sensei follows her out into the hall. We hear afterword, from sensei, that Satoko's uncle has come back into town and taken custody of Satoko. Rumors have been that he was the one who bullied Satoko and Satoshi, when they were living together.
Sensei asks us to remain calm and explains that she will go to Satoko's house right now and have a talk with her. Shion flips out.
"There's no way I can be calm!"
She begins going off about how both Satoko and Satoshi went through hell. They were put through so much and there was nothing we could do about it. Sensei assures her that everything will be okay. Before she leaves, she asks Mion to maintain a study period until she returns.
All we can do is wait until Sensei returns. We head back to class and finish our work. When Sensei returns, she explains how she was unable to talk to Satoko. Shion freaks out again.
"…and you came back just like that?!? If you didn't force your way in to verify Satoko's safety, then what was the point?!?"
"She can't do that Shion. It's not her place to force herself into anyone's home. You can't ask her to get herself in trouble like that." I explain to her.
Chie-Sensei tells us that she will report what happened to the principal. Shion is still furious. After Sensei has left the room, she begins to move towards the door herself. When Mion asks where she's going, she announces that she is going to save Satoko.
"Even if I have to kill her uncle, I'll save her."
Her words send a chill down my spine. She clearly means it.
"That's what I'll do. I'll go kill him right now! That is the most efficient solution!"
"Wait a minute Shion." I say.
"Calm down for a second." Mion adds.
"While you guys whine about how helpless you are, I will be taking care of him, myself. "
Rena steps forward. "I won't let you. Killing someone won't solve anything. It will only bring more misery to everyone."
"She's right Shion. What will Satoko think, if you were to murder her uncle?" Keiichi adds.
She doesn't listen. She starts going off about how Satoko has been through so much pain and suffering, again.
"I won't let a good girl like her suffer any more!"
She turns to leave. I thought that she would be doing so soon, so I had already positioned myself in front of the door.
"Hold up Shion."
She glares at me with fierce eyes. "Please get out of my way, Mike-kun."
"Sorry Shion, but I think I'll keep my spot."
She glares even harder.
I continue. "You'll regret it Shion. I've seen it before. If you go and kill Satoko's uncle now, you will definitely regret it!"
"I'm prepared for that. Even if I am arrested, it will be worth it if I can save Satoko." She replies.
"You're wrong. It won't be worth it."
Her eyes show surprise.
I continue. "You are just looking for the happy times to come back again. If you go and kill her uncle, those happy times will be gone, forever."
She isn't listening though.
"Out of my way!" She orders as she grabs a chair. "If you get in my way, I'll kill you first!" She lifts the chair up above her head.
"Go ahead then. If you really think that you can do it and not regret it later, then go ahead."
"You don't think I will do it Mike-kun? I'm the kind of person who can do it! If an enemy appears before me, I will kill them!" She yells.
"Go ahead! I dare you! Prove that you truly don't care! If you really are a person who can do something like that then go ahead and prove it!"
Mion starts to walk forward. "No, Mike! She'll do it! She's serious!"
I continue. "You say that you are that type of person Shion, but I know better."
Shion freezes.
I finish what I'm saying. "We all care about Satoko. We all know that she's been through a lot. All of us want for Satoko to be free of her uncle, but murdering him is not the answer. Think about it for a little bit. Don't you think that Satoko would be worse off if she knew that the girl, she trusts so much, turns out to be a murderer? Even worse, if you were to kill me, just to get to her house, to murder him. Mion would never forgive you. Just look at her now." I lift my arm in her direction.
Shion looks back to see Mion, on the verge of tears, scared for my safety. Shion returns her gaze to me.
"You don't want to go through with this. Trust me. Even I want to go to Satoko's house right now and slice that bastard to pieces, but I know better. There is another way. I know there is. We just need to fight for it."
Shion slowly lowers the chair, and looks straight down.
"Are you willing to fight with me Shion?" I ask her as I place my hand on her shoulder.
She looks up into my eyes. Her eyes are full of tears, but she says, "Yes". I hug her, and she begins crying. The others gather around and wrap their arms around us. The only one who isn't is Rika. I can see her, standing alone, staring at the floor.
She doesn't believe we can do it.
Just as we all release Shion, the principal and Sensei enter the room. The principal explains that he will contact child welfare. Shion still appears doubtful as she replies, "It will be pointless in the end." The principal tells her that the moment you says "pointless", you've already lost.
I can see Hanyuu talking to Rika. I can't tell what they are saying, but Rika seems like she has no hope for Satoko. She looks like she's given up. It makes me really sad to see her like that, but there isn't really anything I can do, unless she comes to me.
With nothing else to do, we all head home. Mion gets a call from the principal. She calls Rena and Keiichi to tell them to meet us at a certain location so we can talk. We head out to meet them, and when they arrive, Mion explains what the principal told her. It seems that a social worker went to Satoko's house, after they received a call from the principal, but she told the worker that there was nothing wrong, and she didn't need help.
Keiichi asks why she didn't ask for help. Mion explains that Shion had said that Satoko believes that Satoshi's leaving is her fault. She didn't have the strength to endure the abuse she was receiving and had to rely on Satoshi. That is what made Satoshi feel cornered.
"That's bullcrap! She can't possibly believe that his leaving is her fault. The fact that they were being abused in the first place is totally wrong. She shouldn't have to endure it, since it shouldn't have been happening in the first place." I complain.
Everyone is in agreement, but it doesn't change the present situation.
"She believes that enduring this without help will let her atone for her sins against Satoshi, doesn't she?" Rena asks.
Probably.
Rena makes the comment that she thought that me or Keiichi would say the same things that Shion was saying earlier. Keiichi explains that he was able to keep his cool since Shion made a scene first. I agree with Keiichi. He also explains that he felt like he actually did kill her uncle once. He tells us that I turned for the worst at the end.
"I also remember something like that in the nightmare I had. I was thinking about it when I was facing off with Shion." I tell them.
Keiichi says something else. "We can't let this be. As long as Satoko isn't fighting for herself, we have to fight for her!"
"That's right. As long as we work together, we will come up with a solution that will work." Rena adds.
We all agree with her. We then head back home, since we have run out of things to talk about. While in bed, I try to think of some way to help Satoko. Mion and I were unable to come up with anything when we were talking, but I am continuing to think about it. I end up falling asleep without coming up with any ideas.
The next day, Keiichi tells us his idea.
"So we're going to go appeal to child welfare ourselves?" Mion asks.
Keiichi explains that they probably haven't assessed the situation well enough, and we need to go down to explain it to them properly.
Everyone agrees to the plan. Rika seems to still be depressed though. When Keiichi asks her if she will come with us, she asks us if we really think that we can free Satoko from her fate. Keiichi reminds her about what he taught her about fate. "You can change fate with your own hands." She gives in and decides to go with us. She still doesn't look to happy though.
When we arrive at the welfare office, the case worker tells us that they already are working on Satoko's case. She tries to assure us that they aren't ignoring or neglecting her. Keiichi challenges her by asking about why they left yesterday without doing anything. She explains that she can't tell us the details, but they did go to investigate the situation. She goes on to say that they will continue to help the Houjou family live a sound life as father and daughter. Shion becomes angry and corrects her.
"They aren't father and daughter! They're uncle and niece! "
Shion also questions whether or not they truly understand the situation. The worker apologizes for the error, but assures us that they will continue to make sure that the relationship between Satoko and her uncle remains healthy. Rena brings up the point that her uncle has neglected her for over a year. She questions if he can still be considered his guardian after that. Mion asks if there are regulations concerning abandonment of guardianship, in civil law. She also questions if Satoko's uncle should fit into that category. Keiichi adds the fact that Satoko hasn't shown up for school since her uncle's arrival and that they shouldn't just believe what she says.
The worker says that she will notify the one who is working Satoko's case, about our appeal. She thanks us for the information we have given her. With nothing else we can do, we are forced to leave. We decide to sit down outside the building, in a small park. Shion complains about how our talk with the worker was no different from talking to a wall. Rena comments on how our method of going about this way is correct, but she doubts that our sense of urgency will be made clear to the worker. Mion suggests that we could change their attitude about the case, if they were to use her family name, but it probably wouldn't go well since the Houjou's and the Sonozaki's are currently at odds. Shion complains about how this is Sensei's fault.
Keiichi apologizes to Rika. "Despite my big mouth, we were unable to do anything."
"I don't believe it." Rika replies. "You and Mike taught me that fate could be broken. That's why if you say something like that… I don't believe it."
Tears have begun falling from her face. She continues what she's saying.
"I don't want to give up after all. I want to save Satoko." She turns to me. "Mike, Keiichi! Please save her! Save her from this fate! I beg you!"
"Rika…" is all I can say.
"You're right." Keiichi says. "This is where we have to stand firm."
I am able to regain my courage at Keiichi's words.
"Yes, we have to fight. No matter what happens, we have to fight for Satoko. There will be no giving up, because we are fighting for one that we love."
Keiichi stands up and announces, "Now's not the time to get dejected. Mike's right. We have to fight with all we have to save Satoko. We can't give up, no matter what."
Rena asks what we can do. Keiichi reassures her that he has come up with the perfect plan.
Guess I can count on Keiichi when it comes to making plans.
The next day, when the entire class has gathered, we stand in front of them to make our speech. Keiichi begins by explaining that we are going to be discussing Satoko's situation. He points out that Satoko has been absent for the past three days; calling in sick. She hasn't been to the clinic during that time either. He asks the student if that isn't strange. They begin murmuring amongst themselves about how strange it is. Keiichi explains that it's not because she is sick, but because her uncle has locked her inside the house, and won't let her come to school.
Rena then clarifies that no one knows more about Satoko's abuse at the hands of her uncle and aunt then all of us. Shion adds in that Satoko had been living happily with Rika before he came. It's Mion's turn to add something. She tells about how it wrong to forcibly remove her and not allow anyone to see her. I feel that I need to add something to keep the momentum going.
"Satoko isn't a slave! He can't just order around and not give her some sort of compensation in return. She is human just like any of us!"
Keiichi announces that Satoko is our friend and we all need to go and save her. One of the students asks how we are going to do that. Keiichi explains that our group had gone to the welfare office, yesterday, to appeal for Satoko, but they didn't understand the urgency of our crisis. "They are dilly-dallying, say that they are still investigating the situation!" He goes on to say that they were looking down on us because only six of her friends came to help her. We need more, so that they will understand the true urgency of this situation. He asks them all to lend us their strength. "Show them the spirit that has been passed down through Hinamizawa!"
I am impressed at how good of a public speaker Keiichi is.
He could probably rally an entire army, in minutes.
Chie-Sensei walks in at that moment, asking what all the commotion is about. Keiichi continues by saying that will go rescue Satoko. The entire class is pumped. Sensei is about to stop him, but Rika blocks her way.
"Everyone is trying their best to save Satoko. I am powerless, so I cannot do anything without the help of others, but I can stop you from interfering, Chie."
Just as she finishes, the principal walks up behind Chie-Sensei. He places a hand on her shoulder, to let her know that he will handle this. He announces that we can all go do what we must. He will take on all of the responsibility for this matter. Sensei gives us her acceptance, but she won't let us go unless she is allowed to come with us. We welcome her, of course.
At the Welfare office, they are surprised to see that so many have gathered today. When asked how many of us there are, I say that all of Satoko's classmates and her teachers are here. The total is seventeen people. The lady at the counter tells us that the consultation room isn't large enough to fit all of us and asks us to send in some representatives instead. Rena speaks up. "Please arrange a bigger room for us then. I believe that we shouldn't adjust to the room, but that the room should adjust for us."
The woman leaves to arrange a room for us. We are then escorted to a large conference room. The man we are talking to explains that they are proceeding cautiously on Satoko's case. Keiichi replies that there's no time for that. The man goes on to explain that when the case worker talked with Satoko, directly, she told him that there was no abuse. Mion questions them. "…and you accepted it, just like that?"
Shion is unable to keep her cool. "If Satoko get even a single bruise on her, I'll make you pay for this!"
I try to calm her down. "Shion, calm down. We've got this." She sits back down.
Mion makes a statement about Satoko's situation. "Satoko is clearly being abused. Why can't you understand this?"
The man explains that, that is the difficult part of the case. They have to carefully determine whether or not this is truly an abuse case or not. He tells us that it is extremely important for the individual to acknowledge the abuse. I am unable to keep my cool at his words.
"She can't acknowledge the abuse! Not with her uncle staring over her shoulder! Not only that; she thinks that she has to endure this abuse to become stronger!"
He ignores my rant and replies. "After an objective observation, if we deem it necessary, we will take custody over her. However, at this time, it is difficult to perceive if Satoko-san is in urgent danger."
Both Keiichi and I are about to explode.
"Not in urgent danger, you say?" Keiichi says.
He is about to say more, but Rena places a hand on his shoulder. It has become completely clear that they aren't going to listen to us. We end up leaving, without making any progress. As we walk back I complain about our wasting our time. Mion points out that I'm wrong. We all look back to see the other students, still riled up about wanting to save Satoko. Rena explains that it's a first time for them; banding together to fight for a classmate. Mion points out that it's kind of like the Dam War.
"If one opposes you, two will throw rocks at that person. If there are two, four will throw rocks. If there are four, then eight will. If there are a thousand, then the entire village will fight back."
Sensei explains that it was the slogan used during the Dam War. She also says that it means that the entire village will band together and fight.
"That's not all though." She continues. "It also means that one person's pain is shared with everyone in the village, and that you fight back as if the pain was your own."
Rena points out that those words fit our situation well. Keiichi adds, "So that's what you call the spirit of Hinamizawa. We can't give up then."
Mion points out that if we just go back with this many people again, that we will be turned down.
"Perhaps we just need to find more people to fight with us then." I suggest.
Keiichi turns to Mion. "Is it possible to find more supporters, other than children, Mion?"
She thinks for a second then replies, "Many of the counsel elders don't want anything to do with the Houjou's. Even now, everyone thinks that they are cursed."
"Shackled by the Dam War I suppose…" He replies. "Guess there's no other choice. I'll just have to gather them myself!"
We find ourselves at the "Angle Mort". It's a dessert restaurant, which seems to be popular with many guys. I can tell why, since the waitresses dress up in pretty revealing costumes. Keiichi is talking with to a guy that I recognize from somewhere. After a moment of thinking, I remember that he's the pitcher from the ball game we had, not too long ago. Somehow, Keiichi is able to rally the entire restaurant-full of guys to our cause. Shion is also able to get the waitresses to come help out as well.
HAHAHA! They're going to have a field day with this tomorrow at the welfare office!
We all head home after rallying the "Angle Mort" group. We all need to get some rest before tomorrow.
The next day, as we are planning how we are going to organize our "raid" on the welfare office, Satoko walks in. We are all shocked and immediately walk over to her. Sensei explains that the welfare office investigated her absence for the past three days, and Satoko is here today, because of that.
Satoko only says, "My fever wouldn't go down for past three days. Pardon me for making you worry."
She repeats the same exact thing a second time, when I show worry toward her. As she walks to her seat, Mion points out that no one even asked her about her fever. A great pain and anger enter my heart.
That bastard made her say that!
Rena says what I am thinking.
Mion says that her uncle probably let her out because he is convinced that it won't come back to hurt him.
Keiichi walks over to her. "Satoko, are you in pain?"
She replies, "I'm fine. Even without Nii-Nii here, I can go on by myself."
She must be referring to Satoshi.
Keiichi announces that he is going to pat her on the head, as a reward for enduring all this time. As he does, tears begin to fall down her face. Rena goes up to her and tells her that no one will tell if she cries here.
"We're all here for you Satoko. You don't need to worry." I try to comfort her.
"Everyone will certainly come to your rescue, Satoko." Rika adds.
Mion explains that we all have been appealing to the welfare office.
Keiichi tells her that it's not just the club members, and that the whole class is fighting for her.
"So that's why the social worker came." She replies.
Concerned, Shion asks, "Did he do something to you because the social worker came?"
Satoko turns her head and replies, "Really, I'm fine."
"That's a lie." Rena says. "You aren't fine, Satoko-chan; everyone knows that. Everyone is reaching out to help you. It was the same before, so I know."
Rena begins explaining about her past situation. She tells Satoko that to reach the world we really want to go to, we all have to reach out for help.
"Someone taught me that. That's why…you see? Lend me your hand." She says as she holds her hand out towards Satoko.
"We all want to save you, but we can't stretch over this last, tiny distance. That's why you need to grab our hands." Keiichi says, as he holds his hand out towards her as well. "You have to grab our hands. We'll pull you up!"
"Thank you. Thank you very much." She is obviously very conflicted and scared. "…But…"
Before she can finish what she's saying, she hears the sound of footsteps out in the hall. She immediately freaks out. She gets up and runs for a corner.
"Satoko, what's wrong?!?" I call out to her.
As she is backing into a corner she cries out, "M-my uncle…It's my uncle!!!"
She cowers in terror. The man that has entered to room isn't her uncle, but she doesn't seem to see that.
"What's wrong? It's just the principal." Keiichi explains.
Satoko keeps repeating, "My uncle…It's my uncle…"
Rika runs up to her and hugs her. "It's okay Satoko, your uncle isn't here."
"But he was…He came to take me back!" She cries.
"Calm down, Satoko." Rika tells her. "Did you take your shots today?"
She isn't able to answer. She is only able to cry.
There isn't anything we can do for her right now. I tell Chie-Sensei that we need to call Irie. She goes out immediately to do so. Rika holds on to her till he arrives. When Rika comes out of the nurse's office, she explains that Satoko has calmed down, since taking her shots. We ask her what shots, and she explains it to us.
"Satoko is sick."
"What do you mean?" I ask.
Rika explains by pointing out a blot on the wall.
"Do you see the stain on the wall?"
We nod.
"What do you see it as?" She asks.
With us unable to answer, she continues.
"If you fear flies, it will appear as flies to you. If you fear cockroaches, it would appears as that to you. That is Satoko's sickness."
Just as she finishes explaining, we hear a crash from inside the room. Rika quickly opens the door and runs in. We see that Satoko has awakened and is thrashing about. She is crying about her "Nii-Nii."
After Satoko has been taken to the clinic, Rika explains to Keiichi and me that even when there is nothing to fear, Satoko believes that there is something that will come and get her. Even if you tell her there isn't, the panicked Satoko can't tell the difference.
Keiichi sums it up. "It's a disease where, if you start believing in your doubts, you cannot break away from that misunderstanding."
"That's why she has to take her shots every day." Rika explains.
Keiichi asks her if it would be possible to admit her into a hospital, but she tells us that Satoko won't go along with it. She explains that Satoko believes that if she doesn't go home, then her uncle will destroy Satoshi's room. Apparently she had murmured that in her delirious state.
"To Satoko, the Houjou house is a home she needs to defend until Satoshi's return."
"That bastard! I really want to kill him now!" Keiichi says.
I feel the same way as Keiichi.
Rika asks us not to lose our tempers. If Shion and the others found out we'd have trouble. Rika tells us that she only told Keiichi and me because she thought that we'd understand. Our tempers drop at her request, but the thoughts still linger. "I understand." We each say.
"It's not simple to save Satoko. I've tried so many times, but this time is different! Keiichi-kun, Mike-kun, I believe that you can change this fate!"
"Yeah. You're right, Rika." I say.
Keiichi adds, "We'll tear right through that fate!!!"
We head back to the school and prepare our "army" for the march on the welfare office.
When we arrive, we find that Irie, Takano, and Tomitake have come to help us out. I am surprised to see that Takano came to help.
Maybe I am wrong about her.
We are asked to send in some representatives. We agree upon Irie, Keiichi, and Rika. Irie, because he is her physician; Keiichi, because he is the best talker, among us, and Rika, because she is Satoko's best friend.
From behind the counter, I cannot hear what is being discussed. What I can tell is that we don't seem to be gaining any ground. I can hear Keiichi and Irie arguing with the man, but it doesn't seem to be doing any good. It doesn't seem that Rika is saying anything as well. To me, it seems that she is only talking with Hanyuu. All I can do is stand by Mion and hold her hand. We watch without saying anything. After about half an hour of arguing, Rika stands. She says something and they three of them return to the group.
"So? What happened?" I ask.
"All we need to do is get Satoko to admit the abuse." Rika replies.
"That seems pretty tough. Can we do it?" I ask.
"I can do it." Rika claims with confidence.
This Rika is a different one from the one I've been seeing for the past couple of days. She looks like she is fighting again. She truly wants to save Satoko. I am glad for her.
After the welfare office we head to the council meeting. Keiichi plans to get the entire village behind us in our fight. If Satoko knows that every villager is fighting for her, and has forgiven her, she will surely fight back as well. Keiichi is waiting for the right time to ask for the elder's help. As we are sitting in the room, listening to the talk, Mion comes and taps Keiichi on the shoulder. "Kei-chan, come with me for a second." He gets up and follows her.
I decide to come along as well. She didn't sound like she was in a good mood. The other club members follow me out, as they are curious as well. When we come out, we find Keiichi talking with Chie-Sensei and the principal. It seems that they have asked Keiichi to keep tomorrow the last day, we go to the welfare office.
Apparently the school is under pressure and could close if Keiichi keeps this up for much longer. Keiichi explains that Ooishi told him that he would be turning those who dislike the Houjous against him. He asks who in the council still hates the Houjou family. The Dam War is over and Satoko has done no wrong. Mion explains to him that it's likely that no one still hates Satoko's family. Shion decides to add in, "I believe so too."
Keiichi and Mion look back, in surprise to see us.
Shion continues, "…but this village is still afraid of the Houjou family. They're afraid that if they are seen having ties with them, that they will become scapegoats as well. Everyone believes that with her parent's deaths, she has reprised herself. That's why Onibaba ordered everyone to not have any involvement with the Houjou family after that. But she didn't order them to forgive the Houjous."
Why would Sensei do that?
Mion adds in, "Baa-chan is the same as ever. She may have already forgiven them, but if there is a villager that has not quelled his anger, she's afraid that she may lose her authority over this."
Rena explains, "No one holds a grudge against the Houjou family, but they all think that someone does."
Shion also explains, "Nowadays everyone calls this Oyashiro-sama's curse because of the fear of this "someone" who doesn't exist."
Rika objects to her statement. "Oyashiro-sama would never curse Satoko. In fact, she thinks of her as being cute. Please don't use Oyashiro-sama's name for such things."
The way she phrased it, I assume she's referring to Hanyuu. I'm probably right about that.
"I'm new here so I wasn't involved in the Dam War. Even if I was, I don't think that I would have a grudge against Satoko or Satoshi. I'm not so blind as to think that those two are evil just because their parents did something that the villagers didn't agree with. That's just insanity. We need to others to see that."
Keiichi concludes that we just need to weed out those who are against the Houjou in the counsel room. Keiichi bursts into the room and walks to the head of the table. When he has taken his position, he asks if he can say something.
Here we go.
He begins, "Everyone here knows that Houjou Satoko is currently suffering terrible abuse at the hands of her uncle, correct? However, no one here is willing to save her. What's more, you even try to get in our way."
The head of the counsel asks him, "What we are saying is, haven't you done enough?"
"What the hell do you mean, "enough"?!?"
"Those Dam War shenanigans are a thing of the past. Banding together and forcing yourself against the officials is no longer with the times." The elder explains to him.
Keiichi slams him foot on the table. The girls next to me gasp a little in shock. I am grinning wide.
"This is getting interesting." I say to myself.
"The Dam War has nothing to do with this! This is MY WAR! Are you going to join me on this? Make yourself clear now, if you are my friend or a foe. Which is it? Are you friend or foe?!?"
Naturally the council members begin to get into an uproar. The begin murmuring amongst themselves; saying things like "What's with his attitude?" and "Youngsters these days."
The head tells Keiichi, "Since the Dam War is over, there's no reason for the village to stand against the government."
Shion begins musing about something. "I know. Because the government is pretty close with the village. There's the annual Hot Spring trip, and the Year's End party. And then there's the New Year's presents. Even the festival itself…receive several million yen in tribute from the government. In return, the village wags its tail for the government. Isn't that right? Oji-chan?"
He is obviously shocked. "Sh-Shion-chan, how do you know that?"
Shion explains that sometimes, she might actually be her sister.
I chuckle to myself.
Rena sums everything up for clarification. "Meaning, the entire village is tightly knit with the government people, so you can't upset them, right?"
"And I thought Hinamizawa was such a powerful village; able to fight for itself in any situation. Who would have thought that we would be taking bribes from the government all this time?" I reply.
Rika adds in, "So strange, so strange."
"What's this? What's this? Isn't it a bit strange that you are just sitting here listening to all these accusations?" Keiichi asks the head.
All the council members have once again start talking amongst themselves. They aren't talking about Keiichi this time, but about the relation between the village and the government.
The head calls for silence. He then addresses Keiichi. "The Council's relationship with the government is a separate issue. Don't confuse the situation by bringing that up."
Keiichi's reply is as follows: "In this village, there is a code to band together for one person, isn't there? The Last Stand Alliance. It hasn't been long since I moved here, but I believe that it is an honor to live in this here. Houjou Satoko is a member of this village! She is our friend! I want to save her from her terrible uncle! For that purpose, I ask you to lend me the strength of the Last Stand Alliance once again! If one throws a rock at you, two should throw rocks back at them! If two throw at you, attack them with four! If eight come at you, come back with sixteen! If there are a thousand enemies, then stand together with the entire village! Think of the shame brought onto one as the shame brought onto all! For the sake of one villager, gather as one! That's how the impenetrable alliance is formed!"
One by one, the elders begin standing and showing their support for Keiichi.
The head still doesn't seem convinced.
Rika address him. "Could it be that you want the approval of a certain someone?"
He replies to her, "Rika-chama, you sure hit where it hurts. As far as the Kimiyoshi family is concerned, we see the Houjou incident as water under the bridge, but…"
Rika says, "The Furude family has been friends with them since the start."
Keiichi summarizes, "That means all that's left it the most influential great house, the Sonozaki family, who has the true control over the village."
The head asks Mion her position.
"If you're saying Baa-chan is the only problem, I will fight." She replies.
I nod my head. I am also prepared to fight Sensei in this matter.
Keiichi asks the head if he will promise to lend his strength if we can convince Oryou-sensei.
He agrees.
With that, we all head back home. We will confront Oryou-sensei tomorrow. I get some rest to prepare for the day to come.
We will save Satoko for sure!
We don't have training today, since we have arranged a meeting with Sensei. We are all standing in front of the Mansion, getting ready to go in. The ones who are going in are the club members, minus Satoko, Irie-sense, and the head of council, Kimiyoshi. We are ushered in and we take our place in front of Sensei.
Kimiyoshi explains our situation to Sensei. She replies, "It's not like she's going to die in a few months."
She begins complaining about us wasting her time. I've been told that she is a scary person, but I haven't really seen it till now. She truly does whatever she wants and won't have it any other way.
Rika explains to her that Satoko is her friend and that she wants her to save her. Even to Rika, she is cold.
"Rika-chama, I've told you many times. You have to choose your friends."
I can hardly believe it. This is not the Oryou I have come to know. She is a stern woman, yes, but not as cold hearted as the woman sitting in front of me.
Keiichi moves in a bit closer and introduces himself. "My name is Maebara Keiichi. I have just moved here, but I hope to be in your best regards."
"I know about you very well." She tells him.
Mion explains to him that when his family moved here, they hadn't come to introduce themselves, so they left a bad impression.
Keiichi continues what he is saying. "One of the villagers is in a dire situation. Does trying to save her trouble you?"
Akane speaks for Oryou, "The Village Council of the Hinamizawa Coalition has an agreement with the Shishibone City Administration. This cooperation is the proper posture for us to take in order to coexist with them."
"By abandoning Satoko?" Keiichi asks.
"That is not the Sonozaki Family's problem." She replies.
Shion appeals to Sensei. "If we can get your approval, the Council will give us their support."
"I beg of you. Please silently nod your head." Keiichi asks her.
"What will you do if I say no?" She replies.
"I'll crack your head open, make Mion the new Sonozaki head, and then nod hers." He responds.
I am unable to form any thoughts. The ferocity of Oryou is so intense; it wipes everything else from my mind.
"What did you say, you brat?!? Someone bring me my sword! I'll cut down this damn brat and throw him down the well!" She rants.
Everyone is silent. Only I have the courage to move forward. "I won't allow you to do that Sensei."
"Oh? You would go against your sensei for this brat?" She asks.
"Yes, I would. I will fight to protect my friends. No matter who they are, I will fight for them. Satoko is my friend, so I will fight for her as well. I beg of you Sensei. Please give us your acceptance in this matter." I reply to her as I bow.
My speech gives Keiichi the courage to continue. "If you see me as rude, I'll explain my position. To save Houjou Satoko, I ask the Sonozaki Family for their support. Houjou Satoko is a member of this village. More importantly, she is my friend. I also beg of you. Give us your support!"
Keiichi also bows as he finishes his plea.
Akane is the one who responds to us. "Your intention to fight for Satoko-chan because she is your friend is well understood."
Both Keiichi and I return to an upright position.
She continues, "This is a matter of reparation, as we too live in a world of honor."
Rena asks, "If we make this reparation, will you let your anger be water under the bridge?"
Akane responds, "Will you make Satoko-chan bow before us?"
Sensei adds in, "If you could do that, I may think about it."
Rena then says, "So if Satoko makes this reparation, you will make your reparation for the ostracizing that she endured?"
"What?" is the only thing Sensei can say.
Mion and Shion's father then moves forward. He explains that the Sonozaki's bear some responsibility for the misfortune brought upon Satoko. "Despite the parent's actions, their daughter has no sin. Isn't that so Kaa-san?"
Everyone then bows to Oryou, one more time.
She begins throwing a tantrum. "You people make me sick! Bring me my meds!"
As Akane prepares her medication, she tells us that we will have to leave for today.
Keiichi complains that we haven't received our answer yet, but Akane gives him a strict look and says, "You need to learn that, in the adult world, it is sometimes necessary to schedule a return visit!"
We are immediately ushered out.
We wait outside the mansion for Mion and Shion to return. As they approach, Keiichi asks how they think it went. Mion tells him that she doesn't know. She also thinks the Sensei's impression of Keiichi couldn't be any worse.
Rena comforts Keiichi by telling him that Sensei wasn't mad at all.
"How so? She seemed pretty angry to me. Honestly, I've never seen her like that before." I say.
"I just know. She wasn't mad at all." She tells me.
"If you say so."
I'm still skeptical. A bit later, Kimiyoshi and Akane, walk out. We ask him what she said. He laughs and tells us that she said, "OK". "Oryou-san gave us the OK. She even said, Keiichi-kun, to do what you like."
"Is that really true?" Keiichi shouts, excited.
"Onibaba-sama says she likes how you stood up to her with your beliefs, and has forgiven you for your boldness, this time. There needs to be that much of a story to be told."
"All right!" Keiichi shouts. "I am very grateful. I'll come again to properly thank you."
Akane begins laughing. "You'd better not. Next time she may really run you through with her sword. I pity Mike-kun as well, as he will probably pay for it during his training."
"Ah, great." I reply sarcastically.
Everyone begins laughing, except for Keiichi and me.
We all head back, except for Mion and I, who are technically already home.
One more day, Satoko. Wait for us, just one more day.
When Kimiyoshi arrives at the schoolhouse in the morning, he tells us some bad news.
"They refused to see us?!?" I almost yell.
I told them that we'd take on the whole country if it came to that, or course" He explains.
"What fools." Shion states. "If it was any other village council, then who knows, but does he really want to turn Hinamizawa against him?"
"What should we do?" Mion asks.
"We can't back down now that we have stuck our necks out." Kimiyoshi says.
Keiichi thanks him. "I don't know how many people will come, but now that we have come this far, it's all out war!"
We gather in front of the welfare office. We are amazed to see how many people have come. Not just people of Hinamizawa, but also people of Okinomiya as well. We are excited to see so many people, and begin to join in on their pleas to save Satoko. Kimiyoshi makes a speech over some speakers. As we are chanting for Satoko's freedom, Ooishi comes up and greets us. He tells us that he has an urgent message for us.
"Disband? Why?" Keiichi asks after hearing what Ooishi has to say. Ooishi explains that it is prohibited to protest on any government property. If the facility manager decides that our protesting will disrupt their work, they can order us to leave.
Keiichi asks who the facility manager is and Ooishi tells him that it's probably the chairman. As we turn back to the building, we see the curtain close, quickly.
"So he won't even listen to us?" Keiichi says.
"Looks like he just doesn't like you Maebara-san." Ooishi tells him.
"Just when we gathered this many people for Satoko." Keiichi continues.
"From here on, it'll be a war of attrition." Mion explains. "If we can't be on-site with our original number of people, we'll have to set up a smaller crowd of people and shout or demand. We'll just have to keep this up for many days until they feel the pressure."
"So it'll be a long term fight?" Keiichi responds.
I am angered at this turn of events. We can't wait any longer for them. Satoko suffers daily at the hands of her uncle. We have to save her as soon as we can. Just as I about to make this point, Rena beats me to it.
"We can't, Keiichi-kun! We have no time to waste on saving Satoko-chan! I don't really know why, but I just know!"
"I agree with Rena. It's bad enough that Satoko has had to endure her abuse for even a day. We can't waste time." I say.
Rika adds in, "Mikey and Rena are right."
Mion says, "We have no choice, but to wait though. We just have to wait until the situation becomes favorable to us, but that time will come!"
We can't do anything at the moment. We are forced to wait. We continue calling out for the chairman to hear us out. After a while, a limo pulls up, and a man steps out.
"Oji, what are you doing here?" Mion asks in surprise.
He ignores us, and we wait some more. In a minute or two, a man steps out from the Welfare office.
We rush up to him. Keiichi asks is he is a social worker at the office.
The man humbly introduces himself as the chairman.
"Chairman, please hear us out." Keiichi asks him.
"I know." He says as he bows to us. He also apologizes to us.
A worker calls up Satoko's house. When her uncle picks up, the worker tells him that there is something important that he needs to confirm with Satoko. After a moment of waiting, the worker asks the person on the phone if it is Satoko. After confirming that it is, he continues by asking her how she's been since their last inquiry. Keiichi then asks to be put on the phone. Keiichi explains to her that as soon as she says "yes," that they will take custody of her. He also explains that the Sonozaki family organized this all. He tells her about all the people, outside the building that are cheering for her. He then tells her that we were able to crush the coldness that people had been showing her, since the Dam War.
Next, Rika is the one to be put on the phone. She confirms what Keiichi said about everyone treating her badly. She will no longer be bullied by anyone in Hinamizawa. I'm guessing that Satoko told her that she couldn't believe that, because Rika has begun to tell her about how she couldn't believe it herself. She tells her about how she was discouraged when Satoko was taken away by her uncle and that she had given up because she thought that it was a dead-end, but with Keiichi and my help, she learned that fate can be contested.
"You seem to believe that to endure this shows strength, but that isn't true." She tells her.
She then asks her to think back to Satoshi. She asks her to back at the man behind her and realize the courage Satoshi had when he stood up against him.
"If you have any intention to atone for your sin towards Satoshi, you won't achieve that by denying help. You need to take up Satoshi's courage and strength! Realize that!"
She then tells Satoko that she is giving the receiver to the worker.
"Tell him in your own words. I'll be watching for your courage."
Rika then hands the receiver to the social worker. He asks Satoko once again if there is any problem with her life with her uncle.
After a moment, the worker seems to hear something.
"Yes? Could you repeat that?"
I can hear over the receiver her reply.
"Please help me!"
The line is a little noisy for a few moments. Keiichi takes the receiver and ask Satoko if she's alright. Ooishi is stand next to us, holding a radio. "It's alright, Maebara-san." He explains that the police have taken Satoko's uncle into custody. I am overjoyed to hear the news. It seems that Satoko's uncle had already been marked by the police for another case. This was their chance to take him in. We all rush down to her house to see her. When we arrive, Rika and Satoko run to each other. Rika holds onto Satoko as she cries. We all watch as the two best friends have been reunited. Satoko comes to each one of us and thanks us for helping her.
"Come on Satoko, what did you expect? It's not like we could let our "Trap Master" go like that. Where would our club be without you?" I tell her.
She smiles at me and thanks me.
Tomorrow is the Watanagashi Festival. Without Satoko, it would have been a sad day, but now we can enjoy it to our fullest potential. Our beloved Satoko is free yet again. Fate has lost, and it will continue to lose. There is nothing that will prevent us from living a happy life. I have sworn to my friends that I will fight for them. I mean to keep that promise, till the day I die.