Disclaimer: Prison School belongs to its original creator Akira Hiramoto and the anime series J.C Staff. Shadowdream30 claims no ownership of anything save for any OCs, original scenes.
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The fight is over, but Tatsuya and Jack escape with a mysterious ally of theirs. But for now, our heroes now pick up from the aftermath of the Sleeping Wolves attack on the school. And what of the fate of Matsuri and Hayakki? The conclusion of the Blood Prison arc comes to a close…
-Hachimitsu-
It only took a few hours or so before backup arrived at the school and were able to lift up the dome from the school. The students and teachers who were all trapped within the dome, are now free from their capturement.
Kiyoshi and the boys did not waste any time as they pushed through the invisible barrier that once had them trapped and took a giant whiff at the fresh air that now surrounds them.
"I SMELL FRESH AIR!" Kiyoshi yelled.
"I SMELL FREEDOM!" Gakuto yelled.
"I SMELL HAPPINESS!" Shingo yelled with tears in his eyes.
"I SMELL *COUGH* GUNPOWDER!" Joe said.
Hana gave out a big stretch extending her arms and legs out. "Ugh, finally we're free. Now I know what it felt like to be in prison…minus the whole yakuza watching over you like a hawk." Hana muttered at the end.
"Agreed." Mari said as she stretched her arms out. "But the worst has passed us it seems. So now we don't have to worry about the sleeping wolves anymore…hopefully."
"Yeah, but seriously though, those guys were such assholes. Especially that Jack bastard," Hana said as she clenched her own hand into a fist. "I swear I was just about close on beating the living daylight out of that dick head."
"Agreed."
"But I don't think that should be the most of our concern." Hana said.
Mari looks over at Hana who gestured over towards her left. Looking past Hana, immediately her eyes rested on Meiko hugging Matsuri, embracing him in a close and genuine hug. Her arms wrapped around the back of his head, pushing his face closer towards her bosom. Her chin resting on the top of his head. Matsuri returned the hug, hugging her closer as he wrapped his arms around her hourglass frame.
Mari gives out a soft hum. "That's right, even though the fight with the sleeping wolves is over, we still have to worry about the potential future for Matsuri."
"Ugh, it just isn't fair." Hana sighs to herself as she roughly ruffles her own hair. "I mean, Matsuri practically saved the school along with the others. Don't you think they can ease up on him a little."
"It's not that simple." Takamoto comes in between their conversation. "Even though he was dragged into that terrible scheme of Hayakki's, he was still part of it. So there's no guarantee that he will be able to get out of this one…and beside…"
Takamoto didn't say anything else as she gestured over towards the other students. All of them exchange conversation. Some were about recent events or being able to live to see another day. However, some had more…other thoughts in mind…
"So it was true, Matsuri really did kill Yoshimiya…"
"Looks like it…even though the chairman is alive, but Yoshimiya…that's just…"
"To think we have a boy like that at our school…I don't know how I feel about that…"
"Even though he did save us…I-I don't feel safe knowing we have a murderer at our school and as one of the guards…"
Takamoto gave out a sigh. "Others have less pleasant thoughts about this."
Mari gave out a slight soft hum. "I understand their worries…but at the same time I can't fully agree with them. I have heard Matsuri's story. While he did have an option, he still couldn't do it because he was scared. Again, I won't sugarcoat it when I say this, Matsuri should've done something to protect his friend. However…he saved us all by throwing away the life he could've gotten, so I respect him as a person."
"Same here. Matsuri saved us all by sacrificing his own pursued life. At least give him a chance."
Takamoto rubs her own head. "It all depends on how he will be charged…and how he will shape his own life."
All of them looked at the boy who was still with Meiko. But with Sousuke trying to wiggle his way into getting a hug from Meiko. The amazon girl, with an irritated look, was already crushing the boy's own grip.
All of their attention comes to a halt when they hear the sound of a truck horn. Looking towards the front entrance, they spotted Obushi parking in front of the school with several other cop cars coming up.
"Isn't that Obushi?" Hinata asked.
"It is. Looks like they came back." Yuto said.
Within the crowd of students, Chiyo's eyes widened in shock, a small gasp escaping her lips as she immediately pushed through the crowd and ran towards the front entrance. Her heart beating against her chest as she runs closer to the truck. Her eyes, still looking forward, she sees the passenger door opened up, stepping out of the truck, was a familiar older looking man with ash gray hair. That familiar mustache and his familiar stone look.
"FATHER!"
With tears in her eyes, Chiyo rushes up towards Usano, stunned for the moment. He looks down at the top of the brown-haired girl who wrapped her arms around his waist with her face into his chest.
Usano sighs to himself before softly patting the girl's head. "It is good to see you as well my daugh…ter!"
Chiyo sniffled a little into his chest. "Father *sniffed* I thought…I thought you…"
"It is alright Chiyo. I am alive and well. Don't worry, everything will be…okay!" He said with a glint in his eyes.
Mari watched from the sideline with a soft smile on her face.
"You're not going over?" Kate asked, walking up towards her.
Mari shook her head. "No…I'll let Chiyo enjoy this. After all, out of us both, she missed father the most."
"Really? Do you seriously not get along with your father that much?"
Mari hums to herself. "While his behavior is rather unsavory…but he is still my father. So no, I don't hate him. And to see him alive and well…is enough for me."
Coming out from behind, Junichi steps out of the truck, his eyes set on the school now being dome free. "Well now, it looks like everyone is alive."
"JUNICHI!"
Immediately charging right into him! Penny threw her whole body onto the man who almost stumbled backward from just how much force she put into that launch. Penny wrapped her arms around Junichi's neck as she rested her head onto her shoulders.
"YOU'RE ALIVE!"
"Heh, come on Penny, I made a promise that I wouldn't kick the bucket just yet…"
"BUT SOMETIME YOU CAN BE SO STUBBORN!" She said as she looked at him with a glare. "LOOK AT YOUR FACE! THERE'S SCRATCHES AND MARKS ALL OVER YOU!"
"N-Not too mention the soreness of my body, ease up on the hug will ya."
Penny loosen her grip on him. Junichi rubbing his shoulders. "Geez…"
"But seriously Junichi…I literally thought I was gonna lose you…"
The retired yakuza looks at the young woman who held a concerned look on her face. Junichi blinks at the girl before gently stroking the top of her head with a soft smile. "You're right, I'm sorry for worrying you. I know I can be a bit much and worry you a lot…I'm glad you're safe Penny."
Penny offered a small smile.
"How did it go with my father?"
Junichi looks up to Hayakki, who looks at him with a stern glare. "What? That's all you have to say?"
"Just answer the question." She said with a tired sigh. "Seeing how you're all beat up, I'm sure father gave you a hard time."
"Heh, well, he sure was a beast. But with Usano by my side, it wasn't all bad. Got out alive…however. By the time your father was about to do some crazy supernatural shit, Jack came and saved him."
"So it was Jack then, huh?" Hayakki said as she crossed her arm under her chest. "Damn it, so then they both escaped…"
"Not only that, it looks like he got some backup as well."
Both Hayakki and Penny looked at him with surprised gazes. "Really now?"
"I don't think it was some backup member of the sleeping wolves…but a completely different group."
Hayakki narrowed her eyes. "A completely different group…but who could…Heavenly Tower."
Junichi raised a brow. "You think so?"
"I mean, Izumi mentioned that he was provided some materials from their company. But if that's the case, why would they just pick up father and Jack. Then just leave Nerima altogether. But still, the thought of my father is still out there…"
The old yakuza looks up at the pink-haired heiress who held a worried look on her face. The old man closed his eyes with a hum before he rotated his arm as he got up from the ground. "Oh well, at least he's out of our hair now, right? That's all that matters. So nothing else should matter."
"But still though…"
He rested his hand on her shoulder. "It's all good, Little Missy. Your father is out of your life for a brief moment. You're free to choose your own life as you see fit."
Hayakki's eyes widened. Looking at the old man who held a grin.
"You're free now Hayakki."
Hayakki felt as if something heavy that was weighing her down, had now been lifted up. She blinked only to rub her eyes, feeling a small tear building up behind her eyelids. She turns around with a huff.
"Okay, okay, I get it. No need to make this out into a cliché moment."
Junichi chuckled a little before he looked at the girl. "But hey, with your father gone and possibly Japan's most wanted at this point…what will you and that boy Matsuri do from here on out."
Hayakki looks back at the old man before looking over at Matsuri who was too busy reuniting with his family. The boy was being hugged by his mother, pushing him between her bosom while kissing his forehead. Kenchiro, Ayame and Ritsu were all hugging Matsuri from other ends as well. Surrounding the boy with warm hugs.
Hayakki sighs to herself.
"With the truth behind Yoshimiya, your life from here on out isn't going to be easy. You may run into some people who would see you as someone who deserves a second chance, but there will be those who will deem you as criminals."
Hayakki rolled her eyes as she placed her hands on her hips. "I don't care what they call me. I've been the daughter of the immortal wolf for so long, I could care less. But my main concern is Matsuri."
The pink-haired girl looks at the boy with a concerned expression. "He's too soft for something like this."
"I wouldn't think so," Penny said. "Looks to me that Matsuri is a lot different from how you would describe him."
"That is true." Usano spoke up, squeezing into their conversation. "Ever since Matsuri entered our school, he was just a fragile boy who looked to have been tormented. While he suffered some obstacles during his time here at Hachimitsu, I can safely say that Matsuri has truly matured into a…man!"
Hayakki could only give him a raised brow. "Don't you believe you're over exaggerating."
"That's not true." Chiyo spoke up, giving Hayakki a firm glare. "Matsuri has truly matured into a fine young man. Sure he was a little afraid at first and weak…but Matsuri never gave up. He worked very hard to become a better person than he was before. You may not see it, but me and all those around him watched him go through many challenges. Matsuri…he's not the same boy that you once knew."
Hayakki didn't say anything, looking at the girl with a firm stare. Her gaze goes back to the boy who was still speaking with his family alongside his friends.
Memories went through her mind, those times when she has made Matsuri suffer under her reign for quite some time now. Even when he became friends with Yoshimiya, she never once stopped.
"Now that I think about it, Matsuri never once thought of killing himself or even attempted when I was making him suffer…he was possibly stronger than I initially thought he was back when he was attending Atsuhiko…"
"Excuse me…"
Her thoughts were interrupted. Turning her head, she spots a policeman who walks over to the group with Obushi and his employees trailing behind him.
"We have compiled all of the evidence regarding Tatsuya Nekumi…and his true identity being the immortal wolf."
Hayakki sighs to herself before facing them. "Yes, everything is true. My father is actually the leader of a yakuza group known as the sleeping wolves. And he's the infamous Immortal Wolf who was the CEO of Sakura Production."
The cop expression slightly went grim. "To think that this man has been hiding under our noses this entire time…I wish we knew sooner."
"He fooled us all." Usano spoke with a grim expression before softening. "However, it was thanks to the brave effort of this young lady here…" Usano pointed to Hayakki causing her to blink and look back at him. "And with the combined effort of the many people from Hachimitsu, we were able to expose Tatsuya of the true monster he is and managed to save the school from certain…doom."
"He's not wrong." Obushi said. "Though that bastard Tatsuya managed to escape, we were still able to expose him of his crime and save the school and Nerima."
The policemen nodded. "True…however…that's not all…" He said before looking at Hayakki.
The pink-haired girl blinks before noticing what he was implying. "I know…you wish to know about the death of Yoshimiya, right?"
"Yes, we heard from your father that it was you and that boy over there who killed her, right?"
"Yes…everything about Yoshimiya's death was true…"
The air around them became heavy. With Usano and Junichi sharing concern looks. Chiyo sighs to herself, fully knowing what will come next. Not without giving Matsuri another glance. Penny shared a concerned look towards Hayakki's way, worried about her possible future.
"Why?"
They all looked towards Hinata who was clamping his emotion down, but did not stop him from glaring at Hayakki.
"Why would you do such a horrible thing…"
"...I doubt telling you the truth would make anything better with your view on me…not that I care. But if you really wish to know…it was all my father's order."
The group looks back at the girl with a shocked expression.
"W-What?" Chiyo stuttered.
Hayakki stopped for a moment before continuing. "Technically, Yoshimiya 'death' was never supposed to happen to begin with, it was an accident."
Penny raised her hand. "Hold on, you mean to tell me that her death was never supposed to happen, what do you mean by that…"
Hayakki was about to continue…but stopped when she looked back over at Matsuri. The boy was still chatting with his friends and family. A thought crossed her mind before she rubbed her forehead.
"Actually…if it's alright with you…can we please continue this tomorrow…" Hayakki gave out a sigh. "That whole operation plot against my father took a lot out of me. Plus I haven't eaten anything."
"W-Wait! But-"
Before Hinata could push any further questions, he felt a weight on his shoulders. He stops and sees Yuto with a firm glare. "She's right…after the rough night we've been through…I believe it would be wise if we all get some rest and settle this tomorrow morning."
"But Yuto!"
"Hinata…" Obushi looks at the blonde young man. "I know you want this damn story through but damn boy learn to read the air around ya. We just got through fighting back against the sleeping wolves and we nearly escaped with just a thin hair on our back…"
Hinata blinked looking at the man before biting on his lips. "B-But…I just want to know why…what did Yoshimiya do to deserve any of this…I just don't understand…"
"I believe there's nothing to understand young man," Usano said. "All there is to know is that Tatsuya was a dangerous and unreasonable individual. If what Hayakki says about her father is true…no. It IS true! I can confirm that Tatsuya scored against Yoshimiya, while never truly thought it through…but to take advantage of the scenario…I can see Tatsuya as that sort of disgusting…man."
"I can vouch for that…Tatsuya has always been a crazy son of bitch…so it's not outside of the norm for him to do something like that." Junichi added.
Hinata let their words sink in. He thought back to Tatsuya…but the more he thought of the smug look on that man's face. The angrier he grew. It made his blood boil how this man got away with so many crimes…and to even make his own daughter do the work…
"Hinata…" His partner called him.
"I want to see him facing his punishment…"
"And he will…" Kojiro spoke up from behind, holding Scarlet's hand. "But I believe we will discuss more about this tomorrow morning…I believe everyone deserves a good rest."
The policeman looks back to everyone else who all nodded at the idea. "Alright, though I will say that your crime against Yoshimiya may not be looked upon favorably…or that boy over there. But tomorrow morning I want to hear more about your father's involvement with this."
Hayakki nodded. "I will."
Kojiro sighs to himself as he rubs his forehead, while receiving comfort from his fiancé. "Just more work for us…oh well then. At least that crazy bastard is not hovering our shoulders anymore. Which means I can somewhat rest easily tonight."
Usano hums to himself. "I believe we should all call it a day then, with all the trouble that has happened."
"Yes." Kojiro looks towards the policeman. "You and the others can go now. Come back tomorrow morning though."
"Yes sir!" The policeman said as he walked over to the others, beginning to shout his orders to the group.
Obushi gives out a yawn as he turns to his two employees. "Alright, we shouldn't be hanging out around here anymore, let's head home as well, we've got another busy day tomorrow morning."
"I can finally sleep in my own actual room that isn't a prison." Hinata commented with a sigh.
"Boss, I was wondering…do we get a raise after this?" Yuto asked.
"THE HELL I'M GIVING YOU A RAISE FOR!?"
"We risked our lives out there. Plus you got yourself a really juicy story." Yuto said.
"...true…" Obushi rubbed his own chin before shaking head. "Oh alright, I guess I can give you both a raise."
"Thank you boss."
Obushi looked over his shoulder and waved them goodbye before taking his two men and leaving schoolground.
Junichi stretched his back out, releasing a satisfying crack before rubbing his neck. "Geez, talk about a long day…I feel like crashing out…"
"It's okay Junichi, I can drive." Penny giggled.
"By the way, Geezer." Hayakki spoke, grabbing Junichi's attention. Hayakki held a faint blush on her face. "If you really wish…then…you can crash out in the mansion if you wish."
Junichi and Penny exchanged looks before looking back at the pink haired teen who didn't bother looking at them.
"Oi. What's this now?" Junichi asked.
"What? It's a pretty long drive back to your place so how about just crash out at my place. I mean…it does save the drive, wouldn't you agree?"
Junichi blinks, still trying to process her thoughts. "Huh?"
Hayakki groans as she glares back at him. "Oh come on already! I'm giving you an offer here! Now do you wish to take it or not!"
"...heh." Was all he could release.
"THE HELL YOU LAUGHING ABOUT NOW! YOU DAMN FOSSIL!"
"Nothing…it's just that…I was thinking back to the time when we first met." He said only earning a baffled expression from her. "Back then, when I heard that my old pal had a daughter…I was expecting his evil offspring. But the moment I met you…turns out you're more generous than I anticipated."
Hayakki's face nearly turns red before turning the other way, wanting to hide her embarrassment. "O-Oh shut up! This is me giving you a free offer, but don't expect me to give you any special treatment."
"Haha, I would never dream about that." Junichi laughed.
Penny watched the two interactions with a confused expression…but slowly softened into a warm genuine smile. Her eyes gazed at the pink haired heiress.
"Looks like she'll do just fine in the near future…I hope…"
Usano looks to the policemen who all retreated into their vehicles and leaving the schoolground, with one of them taking the truck with all of Tatsuya's leftover men being pushed into the back of the truck.
He turns to Kojiro. "Very well, I believe I will leave this to…you."
Kojiro nodded with a smile. "Yes…thank you, Usano. And sorry for dragging you into this…"
"Yes…I'm sorry too. Seeing how I deceived you." Scarlet said as she bowed.
Usano lifted his hand. "Please do not worry…after all, with the situation you all found yourselves in…it was only understandable…perhaps when we get the chance…we could all go out for some yakiniku one of these days."
The word 'yakiniku' perked Junichi's ears. His full attention was on the other adults. "Whoa! Hold up there! If you're going out for yakiniku, then count me in! Been long before I had some meat!"
"Junichi…" Penny sighs to herself.
"He really IS a fossil…" Hayakki commented.
Kojiro chuckled. "Perhaps we could make a day to go out for yakiniku."
"That would be lovely!" Scarlet.
"I would really love that!" Chiyo said with a bright smile.
"Hahaha, very well then. After tying up some loose ends, then perhaps we can all do some down time."
Kojiro gave out a small laugh before extending his hand out to Usano. "Thank you again, Usano…and you too Junichi."
Usano and Junichi gave the man a smile.
"It was our pleasure!"
-Matsuri's Room- [Boy's Dormitory]
11:00pm
The very first thing that Matsuri did was allow his body to plop down on his own bed. Face first into his pillow. As his body contacted his bed, he instantly remembered the familiar sense. Making him feel at home once more.
"Haa…man I'm tired…" He said with a tired sigh flipping his body around as he faced the ceiling. "I felt like so much has happened over this month I nearly forgot that it was summer…"
Matsuri's head sinks into his pillow as he looks up to the familiar ceiling light. Allowing the nostalgia to overtake him.
Despite being able to rest at ease…that still didn't stop him from thinking about his future….
"With my secret out…everyone knows about Yoshimiya's death…but what does that mean for me and Hayakki?"
His mind drift off to the event that happened not too long ago…
-Flashback-
"WHAT DO YOU MEAN HE MAY POSSIBLY END UP GOING TO JAIL!?" Akari yelled with panic in her voice.
It wasn't long before the police, Obushi (and his crew), Junichi and the others left the school and returned in for the night. Leaving Usano to tell the others what might happen to Matsuri and Hayakki in the near future. Of course this didn't sit well with the students, family and friends present.
Usano stood in front of multiple people, from Matsuri with his friends, the council, the guards (Mari and her friends), Chiyo and her friends, Matsuri family, Miyuki and the teachers. And almost none of them were exactly happy with the news.
"Usano, are you sure there isn't any other way to maybe overlook this…" Kenchiro said with a concerned face as he was also trying to calm down his wife from blowing up in front of the chairman's face.
Usano held his hand up defensively. "I'm aware this news comes as a shock for you all…but killing someone is a serious criminal offense. Despite Matsuri and Hayakki not directly killing her, they were involved in her death to begin with."
"BUT THAT'S NOT FAIR THOUGH!" Ayame yelled. "THEY BOTH SAVED THE SCHOOL FROM THAT BASTARD AND THIS IS HOW THEY GET TREATED! NOT ONLY THAT, MATSURI WAS LITERALLY FORCED INTO THIS MESS IN THE FIRST PLACE! SO HOW COME-"
"Ayame…" The older sister stopped when she heard her father's voice. Looking over her shoulders. "I understand how you're feeling but please, calm down…"
"BUT-"
"It's fine, Ayame." She turned to the source of her worries. Matsuri gives her a sympathetic smile. "It's not like I was gonna get out of this easily anyways, it was bound to happen at some point."
"But you still saved everyone from a possible death! You're just going to accept this!"
"But he was still involved in Yoshimiya's death." Megumi chimed in, crossing her arms. "It sucks, yeah, but we can't do anything about it…"
Ayame bit her lip as she clenched her fist hard. She badly wanted to say something or do something to help her brother out…but if she were to it would only create more problems for them both.
She felt someone tugging on her pants, looking down and she spotted Ritsu with a worried look. The elder sister breathed out a sigh before gently petting her little sister's head. Ritsu didn't say anything as she leaned in and hugged her legs.
Still, it did not make the crowd around any less mad about the news…
"Chairman-dono, surely there's something that can be done. Sure, Matsuri-dono was indirectly responsible, but he saved us in the end. Is there truly no other way of maybe having his sentencing lighten up a little. He truly did justice in the end that I'm pretty sure everyone else can't ignore."
"Gakuto is right," Kiyoshi chimed in. "Matsuri came through in the end! There has to be at least some peace for him in the end!"
Usano hears their words…but alas…
"I am sorry boys. I hear your words loud and clear to this day. But…there is nothing for us to do about this," Usano said with a somber tone that really didn't help the crowd rest at ease. "Matsuri…and even Hayakki, both pulled through and gathered the school to save us from our imperiling doom. But even so…it seems that the side of justice will not have any ways for Matsuri…"
"THAT COMPLETE BULLSHIT!" A rather unfamiliar burst voice came out from the crowd and close to Matsuri. He assumed it would be Meiko, but to his surprise it was actually Etsuko who already had tears in her eyes. "DON'T GO SAYING THAT THE SIDE OF JUSTICE CRAP! AFTER EVERYTHING HE'S BEEN THROUGH, MATSURI STILL DOESN'T GET A HAPPY ENDING IN THE END!"
"E-Etsuko, settle down…" Tsubaki tried to find some way to settle the girl down.
"NO I WON'T! I JUST DON'T UNDERSTAND! MATSURI THREW HIS LIFE AWAY FOR THE SAKE OF THE SCHOOL! HIS SECOND CHANCE OF REDEMPTION! EVERYTHING HE WORKED HARD FOR WILL BE LOST FOREVER!" Etsuko yelled through her tears.
Matsuri and the others looked at the young girl in stunned surprise. It was rare for her to get mad like this. So much so that they couldn't find anything to say back to her but to listen to her tearful words.
"I..It's not…it's not fair…" Etsuko sobbed. "Matsuri deserves better…he shouldn't be going through this…M-Matsuri…he deserves better than this…"
She only stops when she feels someone embracing her from the side. She looks to see Matsuri hugging her close.
"M-Matsuri…"
"Thank you, Etsuko." He said with a smile. "I'm happy to hear that from you, but something like this was bound to happen to begin with. It was only a matter of time…"
"But! But you still have so much to live for! We haven't gone to the summer seaside school trip! You haven't read my stories yet! And you and Meiko haven't had sex yet!"
"OH FOR GOODNESS SAKE! CAN YOU HAVE ONE NORMAL AND GENUINE MOMENT WITHOUT YOU BEING YOU!?" Yukina yelled with blush on her cheeks and her fist on her hips.
"Even she had me for a moment." Megumi muttered.
"This is Etsuko we're talking about here." Tsubaki said.
Matsuri tried his best to ignore the last comment from Etsuko. "U-Um, but still though, I would still love the fun activities with you and all. But I still had a part in her death. No matter how many times you sugar coat it, my past was bound to keep up with me without a warning. But in the end…I'm glad to have met you all."
Matsuri parted ways from her as he gave her a genuine smile.
"Sure it was tough at first, but after getting settled at this school…it's really fun being with you all. I've met all sorts of people and I got involved in situations that I never would've dared enter in…frightening yeah…but in the end it was really fun. Because I got to spend it with you guys."
Etsuko allowed more tears rolling down her cheeks and threw herself onto Matsuri, allowing the dam to break. Allowing her tears to roll as she embraces Matsuri around the neck and rubs her cheeks against his. It didn't take long before Tsubaki and the others joined in the group hug.
The others watched with sympathetic smiles on their faces…but the moment truly was bittersweet. It was more of Matsuri saying his last goodbye to the small friends he made at the school.
Meiko looked onward with a thought. "They're not wrong though…I highly doubt the justice system would see any good things in Matsuri. He would be ripped from this school…from his friends…away from me."
Meiko gripped the sleeves of her shirt while biting down on her lips. Unknowest to her, Hana glanced over at her with a worried expression.
"Father…" Mari stepped up. "While I'm well aware of the danger that Matsuri posed to the school and that he was indirectly responsible for Yoshimiya's death…I…I still can't help but to feel this all feels a little…unfair."
"I agree with Mari," Kate spoke up. "It's too unfair what is going to happen in the possible future! After everything he's done, I'm not gonna stand by and let the law just take him like that!"
Usano gave out a sigh. "I knew this would be the students' reactions and all…but even so…while within Matsuri circle, it has shown he has gained trust with them…but as for the other students at this school. I highly doubt he would be met with…praise."
"Father…" Mari asked.
"Sorry, I was just thinking…I hear you both. But what is done is done. We cannot change the past. There is nothing we can do at this…point." He said with a somber tone.
The reaction he got was what he expected.
Takamoto looks amongst the crowd. She gives out a sigh. "I knew one day this would happen…but there's nothing we can do about it at this point…all we can do now…is pray for Matsuri and Hayakki's future…"
-Current Timeline-
Matsuri gave out a sigh as he sunk into his bed. "I may have helped save the school and all. But that doesn't change anything…I knew it was going to happen anyways…"
*Knock. Knock. Knock.*
Matsuri hears a knock on his door. Rolling out of his bed, he walks over to the door. Opening it, he was introduced to a familiar amazon young woman, dressed in her yellow top and hip hugging pink shorts.
"Meiko…"
"G-Good evening, Matsuri…" She spoke with a soft tone. "I'm sorry for interrupting, did I wake you up by any chance?"
"No, no. I was just in my own thoughts, that's all."
"I imagined you would be," Meiko said as she rubbed her own arm. "With all that had happened during these past few days…"
The two remained quiet for a moment before Matsuri broke it. "You…you wanna come in?"
Meiko had a faint blush on her cheeks before nodding.
As the amazon young teen walked inside, her eyes scanned the room. Letting the feeling wrap around her. "It's been so long since I've been in this room…"
Matsuri walked over to the bed, sitting on the edge before he pats the side next to him, inviting Meiko over to his side. The gray-haired teen walked over and sat rather close to the boy. Despite the close proximity, Matsuri did not mind one bit.
Meiko lets out a sigh of relief. "You truly were scared half to death when Tatsuya announced your death."
Matsuri flinched a little. "Y-Yeah, sorry about that. But it was all part of the plan to catch him off guard. If I said something then, he would be suspicious and all of our plans would go to waste."
Meiko crossed her arms under her bosom as she looked at Matsuri with a glare. "You still could've given me a hint or anything like that. I thought I almost lost you there."
"Sorry, I guess it was at the heat of the moment." Matsuri said.
"Honestly…"
Matsuri rubbed the back of his head with slight regret. He blinks when he feels a weight on his side. Turning his head, he spots Meiko leaning on him. "Meiko?"
"I missed you, Matsuri," Meiko said softly. "I truly thought you were gone."
Matsuri didn't say anything for a moment. He then lifts her up, making Meiko confused by his action. But what she didn't anticipate was the boy softly caressing the girl's cheeks with his hand, she leaned into the soft touch.
"I didn't mean to scare you or the others. But here I am, in front of you, alive and well."
"...you say that so casually…but there is still the problem with what will happen to you and Hayakki…I'm still worried."
"I know you are…and I am as well…but this is something I chose."
Meiko blinked with a confused expression. "You…chose?"
"When me and Hayakki were in the mansion. Something came to my thoughts. Hayakki told me that she isn't afraid of revealing her secret to everyone. I kept on wondering why…until it hit me. Hayakki has been living under her dad for many years now. The abuse…the constant fear of him hovering over her shoulders…she's been living with that for so long now. So when she told me that she was more than ready to tell them about her involvement…so that's why I decided on that as well. I won't run away…I plan on telling them my part in it as well."
Meiko blinked as she looked at the boy with a surprised expression before smiling. "Heh…you have grown so well…"
"Well…me attending Hachimitsu, being thrown into dangerous situations, chased by the USC," He said, glancing at Meiko who glanced the other way, acting as if she didn't know anything. "Coming back from the dead…I've learned that, yeah. Of course I'm afraid…but that doesn't stop me from pushing forward."
"...then I guess you wouldn't be afraid of anything, right~?"
"Hm?"
Meiko immediately grabs hold of Matsuri, pushing him down onto the bed. The boy looks up to see Meiko, with her planted right on top of him, looking past her mountainous breasts. Meiko looks down at him with a familiar look. His cheeks flushed red as his heart pumped faster.
Meiko smiled, her hand reaching to the top of her head. Letting the bun down, releasing her long hair. "I missed this as well~."
Matsuri blinked. "I…I missed this-"
He was forced to stop when Meiko immediately planted her lips onto Matsuri. Despite being caught off guard, he did not bother pushing her away. He brought her in closer, the two passionately kissing each other.
Parting away from each other, Meiko looks down at the young teen with a smile. "I wish for us to remain like this…"
"...me too."
Meiko hugged Matsuri close, letting her body rest upon him. Matsuri wrapped his arm around her hourglass frame. Meiko's face rubbed against his, her breath softly blowing into his ear. The boy rested with Meiko on top, embracing the forgotten warmth he missed for the past days.
-Hachimitsu- [Chairman Office]
July 30th (Sunday)
9:00am
Inside the familiar room, Matsuri and Hayakki sat on the sofa provided for them. While Matsuri was rather much on edge. His hand was on top of his knees, his hand clenching into a fist, around him were familiar presences and faces. Despite his mother, father and Miyuki presence in the room, he was not still not at peace. On both sides of Hayakki's were Izumi and Homura.
More people were sitting around the sofa, with Obushi and his two employees, all sitting on the same couch. Next to them were Junichi and Penny.
Sitting at the table up front of the room, the usual was Usano. His usual presence that he carried around him. On his side were Takamoto and Kiruyu. In front of the desk was the policeman.
"I know we both agreed to do this but…right now I'm feeling nervous." Matsuri thought to himself. He took a deep breath. "But there's no turning back, if Hayakki can casually admit to her sins…then I have to face this as well."
From the side, Akari took notice of her son slightly trembling for a moment. She knew too well that her son was terrified of what was to come. "Oh Matsuri…"
Usano gave out a tired sigh. "Very well, since we are all present here…I would like to make one thing clear to you both." He said as he pointed at both Matsuri and Hayakki.
Both the students had similar expressions, aside from the slight tremble from Matsuri.
"Are you both prepared to face the consequences that will soon befall on you if you admit to your…sins."
"I'm already aware of the consequences," Hayakki spoke up. "And I don't plan on running away or denying it at all."
Matsuri was already aware of all the eyes on him, awaiting his answer. Matsuri steeled himself. "Yes…I am prepared as well."
Usano nodded. "Very well…then let us recap on the very event that happened. The cause of Yoshimiya…death."
Obushi elbowed Hinata, nudging his head. Hinata understood the gesture and brought out a notebook.
"Last year, at the school of Atsuhiko Academy, photos of Yoshimiya stripped naked spread across the school. Creating a disturbance and further plaguing her image. It wasn't long after until she took her own life away by jumping off the building, ultimately killing herself in the end."
Matsuri bit his lip as he remembered vividly of the very time she jumped off the building. He felt absolutely powerless, unsure of what he could've done…
"No…there WAS something I could've done…but I didn't do it…"
Hinata rubbed his own forehead to avoid yelling. "For months now, they tried to find any evidence that led to her death or who took those photos. But they couldn't and were just about to close the case…that is until today."
Usano nodded as he turned his head to Matsuri's family (and to an extent Miyuki). "Matsuri has come out and revealed that both he and Hayakki were the ones who took those photos of Yoshimiya stripped and spread those photos across the school. Is that…right?"
Miyuki nodded. "Matsuri came to me first and told me the truth of Yoshimiya's death. He shared with me the entire story of what happened to her and who took those photos."
"...um…if I may ask," Hinata raised his hand. "How did it make you feel after learning about your daughter's death?"
Slap!*
Hinata rubbed the back of his own head as he looked to his side, seeing Obushi with a glare. "Oi, oi! No need to bring up THAT question now! She's already feeling like crap as it is!"
"It's fine boys, really," Miyuki smiled before turning back to Usano. "But yes, Matsuri told me everything…yes, I will admit I am slightly disappointed…however…I know Matsuri never meant to hurt Yoshimiya."
The room grew silent. All eyes were on her.
"Matsuri came specifically to me to reveal about my daughter's death. While I won't turn a blind eye, he could've done something to prevent her death from happening…but from Matsuri's story, he still never wanted her death to happen. Matsuri loved my daughter and my daughter loved him as well…and that love also extends to Hayakki as well."
Hayakki raised a brow at that as she looked over her shoulders. Looking right at Miyuki who smiled back at her.
"She really considered both of you as her very close friends."
"Huh?"
"Whoa, hold up a moment." Homura raised her hand. "Yoshimiya told you who took the photos?"
"Of course not. But I did know that she used to be close friends with Hayakki back in Middle school…however, after a while they stopped hanging out with each other. At first I thought it had to do with some minor trouble or miscommunication that could have been simply solved. But Yoshimiya told me not to worry about it. I guess she felt that Hayakki would come around…at least she hoped."
Hayakki felt a little guilty from her last words. Looking the other the way to avoid her gaze.
"Still," Kenchiro spoke up. "I had no idea that Hayakki and Yoshimiya were friends once…I never knew about this."
"Me neither." Akari said before looking over at the pink-haired girl. "If you two were friends…what happened?"
"..." Hayakki remained quiet for a moment before speaking. "My father…"
The air in the room grew tense.
Usano growled. "Yes…that…man!"
"Ah yes," Yuto spoke up. "I believe we met him. He was the current chairman of your school, correct?"
"Yes."
"I also had a run in with that bastard!" Obushi yelled. "That son of bitch forced me to stay quiet and not to further investigate the Yoshimiya case! He even threatened to kill my own family if I didn't comply!"
Izumi sighs to herself. "That would be Tatsuya's method of threatening someone to assert dominance over them."
"Fucking son of bitch! If he didn't skip town I would punch him square in the face and squash on his fucking dick!" Obushi snarled.
"Boss, vocabulary." Hinata said with a sigh.
"Now I'm glad we didn't bring Ritsu here with us." Akari leaned near Kenchiro with a whisper.
"True."
Usano cleared his own throat to get the attention back on him. "Anyways, from what I can gather. Matsuri and Hayakki were the ones behind Yoshimiya's death…however. I don't think that's all of the story. No. I believe that there is more to this than meets the eye…is that right…Hayakki?"
Hayakki nodded. "Yes. Anyways, Yoshimiya's death. Was never supposed to happen in the first place."
"HUH!?" Obushi yelled. "Hold it! You're saying it was an accident!?"
"Yes…I was following orders from my father."
And just like that, everyone's expressions were the same. Feeling shocked and horrified to find out that the real mastermind was actually Tatsuya. The only one who did not share the same expression was Takamoto who grimaced.
Miyuki spoke with a stutter. "B-But why?"
"Simple," Hayakki said with a bitter tone. "My father was always the type who held pride in his family and clan. So the very thought of his own daughter falling behind another student, is a complete embarrassment to the clan…his words at least."
Junichi pushed himself forward on his seat. "So you're telling me…that bastard cried like a little bitch because you weren't top in the grades."
"Of course."
"Heh, I won't put it past him." Junichi said. "That guy was always the twisted version of being overly sensitive about things not going his way. The very same behavior that killed my family and clan."
Kiruyu rubbed her temple. "The more I hear of this bastard, the more I just see more of a man child than an adult."
"You pretty much hit the nail on the head, Kiruyu-sensei." Takamoto said before looking over at Hayakki. "So from what I understand, Tatsuya wanted you to be the top student at the school. But failing behind Yoshimiya, I'm guessing that led to a sore spot on him."
Hayakki nodded. "My father was very disappointed…so instead of letting it go, he decided to do the next thing possible…tainting her reputation."
Usano growled under his breath. "So you mean to tell me…that his idea was to smudge Yoshimiya's picture so that rumors begin to circulate around her, ruining her life. I must say that is extremely…petty."
"Very petty." Kojiro said with a growl.
"After her death, at first my father was angry…but then when he found out that he could use this as an opportunity…he wasted no time but seized the chance. He erased every evidence surrounding Yoshimiya's death. Then he brought the school and made me into the student council president…all to save his own skin and create a public image."
Amongst the room, Hinata looks down at his own legs, letting the information sink in. "You mean…you mean to tell me that…he took the life of an innocent young girl and boast about it…what…"
*SLAM!*
"WHAT KIND OF BULLSHIT IS THIS!?"
"Calm down Hinata…" Yuto said.
"HOW CAN I CALM DOWN! THAT BASTARD! HE LITERALLY TOOK THE LIFE OF AN INNOCENT AWAY ALL BECAUSE HIS DAUGHTER WAS FAILING BEHIND HER! NOT ONLY DID HE RUIN THEIR FRIENDSHIP, BUT HE…HE-"
"HINATA!" Obushi yelled, gaining his attention. "I understand your anger, but for the love of god, calm down! Yeah, I want to tear that crazy bastard a new one myself…b-but yeah, calm down."
Hinata growled under his breath, there was so much he wanted to let out. Just the sheer audacity of it all just made him boil with rage. Shaking his head, he sat back down.
The police chef closed his eyes as he thought for a moment. "So then…Yoshimiya's death…was never supposed to happen. But he took it either way…is that right?"
Hayakki nodded. "Everything I'm laying out is the truth."
Usano sigh to himself. "I knew he was an insane man…but to think that he was this insane…I can't help but to feel sorry for whom you have to deal…with."
Hayakki gave out an exaggerated sigh as she crossed her arms. "Ugh, you have no idea…"
"So from what we can gather so far, both of you were basically a pawn in Tatsuya's plan, originally the plan was to taint her reputation, but that didn't work and ultimately led to her death, is that right?" Kiruyu said.
Both Matsuri and Hayakki nodded, not hesitating.
Kiruyu lets out a sigh. "I see…"
Matsuri glances over at Hayakki. "Actually, weren't your other friends involved in this as well? What happened to them?"
"Hm? Oh…you mean, Tachi and Anna…well, about that. Right after Yoshimiya jumped and I met up with you, I told Tachi and Anna to go skip town or something."
"You told them to skip town…"
"I did…to avoid my father."
Not a word was spoken after that. Some were already expecting what the answer to their next question would be.
"I'm guessing that…your father…" Penny spoke with caution in her tone.
"Yeah…my father caught on and killed them and their family…" She said without saying anything else after that.
"..."
"Ugh, that man…" Takamoto said with a tired sigh.
Kojiro rubbed his own temple. "To think he would…actually, no. It's very like him to do something like that."
Akari had her hand over her chest, easing her heart rate. "Those poor dears…"
Hayakki sighs to herself, holding onto her expression. She felt a tap on her shoulder, looking up to see Homura with a grin. "But hey, cheer up. He's out of your hair and out of ours."
"For the moment at least," Izumi spoke with a fact. "Tatsuya and Jack escaped via blimp and left the town and headed south. Not sure where, but I highly suspect that we haven't heard the last of him."
"Ugh! I would rather not!" Homura said.
"Well, in any case." Hayakki leans in her chair as she looks at the chairman. "That's the story. Everything that both I and Matsuri told you is the truth…and…I know this doesn't mean much now but…I'm sorry."
Usano raised a brow.
"I'm sorry for all the trouble that me and my father have caused you and the school." Hayakki raised her head once more before looking over at Miyuki. "And I'm sorry…for what happened to Yoshimiya as well…"
"Hayakki…"
Matsuri took a deep breath before copying the same gesture that Hayakki did. "And I'm sorry as well…for not being clear with you the first day. I'm…really sorry for roping you all into this mess…I truly am."
Usano looks at the two young students in front of him. Not paying mind to the other eyes that befalls on him as well. He closed his eyes, giving a hum before looking over at the policeman. "What is your…verdict?"
"Hmm…well…they did participate in kidnapping, taking photos and while not actually killed, their actions still led up to her death. However…they were just pawns in the true mastermind behind this whole fiasco." He thought very hard on this, rubbing his own chin. "Hmm…honestly…yes. You still caused a crime…but if anything…I don't think it's really my call if you should be charged or not…what says you, ma'am?"
All eyes were now on Miyuki, the woman flinched a little from the sudden spotlight on her, but soon regained her composure when approached with the decision.
"Well, I have already been approached by Matsuri and given my answer to him…and Hayakki has approached me as well and I gave my answer to her…" She looks at the two young students who await her answer.
Miyuki closed her eyes for a moment before looking at the police officer. "I know this may sound rather selfish coming from me but…could maybe find it in your heart and give them a second chance in life."
Everyone present in the room gave a surprise and baffled expression. Hinata the most, given what had happened to her own daughter…and yet…
"Y-You're just gonna forgive them like that…" Hinata asked.
"Of course. Back when my daughter was alive, she has befriended quite a number of people, that also goes for Matsuri and Hayakki. She loved them both dearly…honestly, from what I heard…if anything the fault lies with Tatsuya. He's the real mastermind behind this."
"She's right." Junichi answered. "If that bastard hadn't intervened, then life between the three would've been perfect…but of course he couldn't just stand his legacy being dragged down. So he did the worst thing possible and the three roped into his own little game…"
"Exactly…and besides," Miyuki looks back between Matsuri and Hayakki with a warm smile. "These two…really did put their neck out there and saved the school and the students…I believe they suffered enough as it is…so please. I don't wish to press any charges on them both…all I just want…is for both of them to enjoy their life."
Matsuri and Hayakki both were speechless, unsure of what to say to the older woman who presented a genuine warm smile to the group. Even everyone else in the room was stunned. Except for Junichi who could only offer a grin.
Usano hums to himself. "I see…you are a very kind woman…Miyuki."
Policeman scratches the back of his head. "I see…well…I guess I can let them off the hook for now." He said before giving them both a glare. "Just make sure you both stay out of trouble."
Matsuri held his hands up defensively. "I'll try my best."
"I'll be a good girl and stay out of trouble, officer." Hayakki joked a little.
Kiruyu couldn't help but to look at the pink-haired girl with a glare. "Now then, how are we supposed to know that you'll stay out of trouble?"
"Not only that," Kojiro spoke up. "But there's also the sleeping wolves."
"Relax," Junichi raised his hand before the atmosphere could get any dire. "I'll keep an eye on those block heads."
Kojiro blinks as he looks over at the old man. "You?"
"Sure, I mean, they had a shit leader, so why not look over them. Reform them a little. And I can keep an eye on little Missy over here so she doesn't cause any more trouble."
Hayakki groans a little, trying her best not to react to Junichi's missing her name on purpose. "Oh whatever, Old Geezer, but don't expect me to care for you when you break your back."
Junichi lets out a laugh as he allows his back to fall on the couch.
Yuto raised his hand. "Well, that's cleared out of the way, but what about the story about Yoshimiya, do you want us to go ahead and release it."
Matsuri and Hayakki shared a look before nodding.
"Go ahead."
The three of them look at the two with baffled expressions.
Obushi leaned forward. "Are you sure about this?"
Hayakki didn't say anything but looked towards Matsuri, waiting for his answer. The boy looks between the teenage girl and everyone else in the room. Taking a deep breath. "I'm positive. Yoshimiya gave her life up for me…but honestly…I just felt guilty of it all. So yes…tell them everything about that event."
"...it's not gonna be an easy life, kid." Junichi said. "You're possibly gonna be treated wrong…"
"I know…but I'm willing to accept it."
Kenchiro and Akari look at each other with worried expressions. Kenchiro nodded before looking at his son. "Matsuri…no matter…we will always love you."
"Your father is right, sweetie. All of us will try whatever we can to support you however we can."
Matsuri offered a smile. "Thanks…"
Obushi sighs to himself. "Alright then…consider it done then."
Kojiro nodded as he got up from his seat. "Very well then. You two are off the hook. However, for your father, Hayakki. After the crime and trouble he committed, I am sorry, but he will be punished. That is if we can find him."
Hayakki rolled her eyes. "I could care less about my father. Go ahead and detain him however you see fit."
Usano gave out a sigh. "Very well, then I guess that covers everything. I would say it is safe to assume that this meeting is now…dismissed."
Homura gave out a stretch. Cracking her bones. "Man, that was actually less painful than I thought…and less boring."
"Either way, it all worked out in the end." Izumi said. "Now the question remains…what to do next. From the very beginning, when I and Homura joined the sleeping wolves, our main objective was to protect Lady Hayakki. But without Tatsuya…"
Homura groans to herself. "Yeah that is true…"
Junichi looks over at the two. "Why not stay?"
Both the teens look over at the old man with Penny and Hayakki looking at him as well.
"I mean, I did say I would look over the Sleeping Wolves, give them a reform yeah. Besides…I'm pretty sure Missy here would want you two to stay with her as well."
Both Homura and Izumi blinked as they looked over at Hayakki. "Is that true, My Lady?"
Hayakki didn't look at them, but Izumi could tell she was expressing concern. "...I mean. I don't want to keep you guys from whatever it is that you guys need to do…but that only depends if you really do want to stay."
Both of them blinked, exchanging looks between each other before looking back at Hayakki who was still awaiting their answer.
Izumi pushed her glasses up before speaking. "Lady Hayakki…it would be my honor to serve by your side."
"Yeah! Me too! I mean, we're all friends here, right?"
Hayakki didn't say anything, nor did she look over at them. Closing her eyes with a soft sigh…before a small smile graced her lips. "Good."
Penny leans near Junichi with a whisper. "You're actually gonna reform the Sleeping Wolves…"
"Of course. Besides, I'm only doing this to give Little Missy some pointer on how to run a yakuza. She has some potential of being a leader, so I want to see where this goes from here." He said with a smile as he watched Hayakki who was getting up from her seat.
Hayakki stretched her body. "Alright…I'm guessing we're done here, then?"
Takamoto nodded. "Yeah, we're done."
Usano looks amongst the room. His eyes went to Matsuri who went over and hugged his parents (with Miyuki joining in the hug). Next was Hayakki who was speaking with Junichi and Penny with Homura and Izumi by her side.
He hums to himself. "Thankfully it is all…over."
"I wouldn't say that…" Kojiro said. "There's still Tatsuya who is still at large…let's not forget about that."
Usano nodded. "Indeed. The war may be over for now, but Tatsuya is still far from…over."
"Oh well," Takamoto said as she chimes in with a smile. "The most important thing is…that the school is safe. And Matsuri and Hayakki's future are saved…for the moment at least."
Kiruyu sighs to herself as she rubs her own head. "Still…I'm a little worried about Matsuri's future from here on out. I mean, I understand why he chose this path…but I'm worried about what will happen from here."
Takamoto shrugged with a grin. "I'm sure he will be fine. He was already aware of what would happen from here on out if he goes down this path…there's nothing much we can do now but…watch him."
"Takamoto-sensei is right, Kiruyu-sensei." Usano said. "Matsuri is a strong young lad. While most of the world won't agree with him or go his way…he will still walk down the path with his head held high. That I…know."
Kiruyu sighs to herself. She wanted to say more…but decided to leave it at that.
Kojiro walks up to Usano, giving the man a smile. "Thank you…for everything. And sorry for dragging you into this as well."
Usano shook his head. "It's alright. Besides, that bastard was after one of my students anyways…couldn't let that slide. Not on my…watch."
"Either ways…that man has terrorized me and my fiance for the longest…I'm just…I'm just glad it's all over. Yes…it's over…we're finally…" A single tear threatened to leak from his eyes. A small smile graced his lips. "Thank you…Usano…thank you everyone…"
-GraveYard-
The sun basked down over the graveyard. Numerous gravestones lined up in a row. Walking down the middle, two familiar figures walking down the middle.
Matsuri and Hayakki, walking in silence, both were carrying fresh flowers wrapped in a plastic wrap.
It didn't took long before they came up to a gravestone with a familiar name on it:
[Yoshimiya Kakeguri]
Both of them standing in front of her gravestone with flowers already placed on, they both placed theirs on the tomb. Matsuri took a look at the tombstone one last time, gazed locked in. Memories flood his thoughts, all the time he spent with Yoshimiya, the times when they were together…it aches his heart of how her story ended.
Tears were threatening to build up behind his eyes…until he felt a hand on his shoulders. He looks over and spots the pink-haired girl with a sympathetic frown.
"I miss her too…and I regret what happened as well…"
Matsuri took a deep breath, trying to calm down. "Y-Yeah…but still…I can't help but feel…w-we could've done something…I could've done something…"
"We all could've something…" Hayakki said. But we can't change the past…I wish we could…but we can't…"
Matsuri wiped his eyes, cleaning the tears from his eyes as he sniffled. "I'll never forget the day we met…a-and all those days we spent together. Whenever I'm sad, she would always find a way to cheer me up. On rainy days we would both share an umbrella. She even took me to the beach once…her favorite spot. And lastly…that smile of hers…always brightens my day. I'll always treasure every moment we spent."
Hayakki blinks before giving a soft sigh. "I didn't get to spend too much time with her…we met in Middle School once. She was a weird girl…but I liked that about her. She wasn't always afraid to take action or leap into the unknown. I guess you could say…it was more of the rebellious side that I liked about her…"
Matsuri stifled out a laugh. "Guess you could say that Yoshimiya made an impact on both of our lives."
"..." Hayakki didn't say anything before she gave out a sigh. "I guess so…but she's gone now. We can't do anything about that."
"Yeah…we now must move on and forge our own future without her." Matsuri said with a frown.
"It will be tough, but we'll manage…" Hayakki got up from her position and looked at the tombstone. Her hand reaches out towards it, as she softly touches the surface. "At least that's what she would want us to do…"
Matsuri got up and did the same gesture as Hayakki. Settling his hand on the tombstone with a somber expression. "Yeah…"
Hayakki gazed at the tomb…her gaze lingered as Yoshimiya's smiling face invaded her head. Taking a deep breath before speaking.
"Goodbye, Yoshimiya…and thank you...for showing me the light…I just wish I did something sooner…"
A soft wind blew past them. Blowing through their ears, as they swore they heard a soft voice whispering near them…
Both Hayakki and Matsuri look behind them. Looking around as if they swore they heard someone. But no one was around.
The pink-haired teen gave out a sigh as she turned around. "It's time to go."
"R-Right…"
Hayakki walks off, followed by Matsuri who looks behind him before following Hayakki.
"By the way," Matsuri asked. "What are you gonna do when you get back to Atsuhiko…"
Hayakki blinked before bringing her finger to her chin. "...guess I'll step down from being on the student council. I mean, what's the point of me being in the council if not only was my father the infamous immortal wolf, but I also committed a crime myself."
"...I guess that makes sense…"
"So what about you?" Hayakki asked Matsuri. "I mean, with the secret out, I highly doubt the school would go easy on you…"
Matsuri blinked, thinking for a moment before speaking. "I may have an idea…but I'll need some more time to think…"
"Well, as long as you're sure about it, then I guess it should be fine." Hayakki said.
Both of them said nothing as they walked in silence, off into a hopefully brighter future for the both of them.
[Omake: -Tsubaki Loves Cute Things-
"Tsubaki! Tsubaki, where are you!"
Running down the hall, Etsuko was calling out for her friend, wondering where she was. She looked from classroom to classroom. She checked the bathrooms. The changing room. The teacher's lounge. Everywhere.
Etsuko settled her fist on her hips. "Where the hell is she?"
"Etsuko?"
She hears Matsuri's voice. Turning she sees Matsuri, along with Yukina and Megumi tagging along.
"Is something wrong?"
"Have any of you seen Tsubaki?"
Yukina raised a brow. "Tsubaki? Wouldn't she be at the gym? She's usually training on her own during this hour and day."
"I checked there already."
"The library where she takes her detention?"
"Checked."
"The rooftop where she secretly sleeps?"
"Checked."
"The storage room where she spends her time for tutoring lessons?"
"Checked."
"How do you know all this stuff?" Megumi asked with narrowed eyes.
Yukina flips her hair. "I know everything about you all…well. Not everything, but almost everything."
Both Matsuri and Megumi could only glance at her with worried expressions. "I feel like she sometimes abuses her power too much."
"Either ways," Yukina brings out her fan as she hides her face behind it. "Then how about the back of the school, then?"
Etsuko blinked as she tilted her head. "You mean the back? Why would she be there?"
"I usually see her over there, but I never really indulge myself into finding out why she hangs out there. Possibly a drug deal?"
"No way! I know Tsubaki and she's definitely against the use of drugs!"
Yukina hums for a moment with a thought before shutting her fan close. "Well then, if you put it like that…why not investigate ourselves?"
All three of them look back at the girl. "You…seriously want to go investigate?"
"Sure. I mean, Etsuko is looking for her, right? So why not go together and see what she's been up to."
"But…wouldn't that be invasive privacy?" Matsuri asked.
"I don't think that applies with Etsuko." Megumi said.
Matsuri turned to her with a questioned expression. Only for Megumi to point where Etsuko was at. He turns to find Etsuko not there anymore. He looks down the hall to find Etsuko waving at them.
"Come on! Let's go!" She said before rushing off.
"...well now, that didn't take so long…" Yukina said.
The group travels outside, walking towards the back area of the school. Once they traveled there, they stopped to find a familiar black hair young teen who was speed walking towards the back area of the school.
"There she is." Yukina whispered.
They all spotted the girl…but for what reason why was she back here? Curious, they continued following behind her, trying to be more stealthy without letting her know.
Being as quiet as they could, Tsubaki reached the corner and turned around. They ran as quiet as they could, once they reached the corner, they pushed their backs against the wall. One-by-one, they poked their heads around the corner, spotting the teenager bending down….
"What is she doing?" Etsuko asked quietly.
"Not sure…" Matsuri whispered.
"Wanna get a little closer…" Megumi asked.
"Mind as well…" Yukina said.
All four of them got out from behind the wall and approached her slowly. The closer they got, what they weren't expecting…was something unexpecting…
"Here you go little guy…"
Tsubaki sets down an open can that had some meat in it, that was all broken into pieces. In front of her was a small brown furry puppy. The small dog barked happily as it chowed down on the food. Tsubaki watches on with a smile on her face.
"Heh, hungry little guy aren't you…" Tsubaki whispered. "Try not to pig out too much…"
Matsuri and the others were genuinely surprised to see this…
Matsuri: "She's…"
Yukina: "Taking care of…"
Megumi: "A puppy…"
"AWWWWW~! SO CUTE!"
Tsubaki jumps a little, turning around, she looks over her shoulder with a fierce blush, seeing four familiar figures behind her.
"What the!? How did-WHAT ARE YOU FOUR DOING HERE!?"
Her question was deaf eared as she rushed near her side and squats down! Looking at the small puppy with a blush on her cheeks. "WHAT AN ADORABLE LITTLE PUPPY! WHAT'S HIS NAME? HOW OLD IS HE!? IS IT A BOY OR A-"
"OI!"
Etsuko stops when Tsubaki hands grabs her full face. Pulling her face towards her own, she glares at the girl while her hand threateningly squeezed the face.
"The hell are you doing here, you Etsuko…" She growled before turning her head to everyone else. "And what about you three!"
All three of them flinched. Yukina hid behind Megumi, not wanting to face her wrath. Matsuri held his hand defensively.
"H-Hold on, Tsubaki! No need to get all violent!"
"I'M ABOUT TO GET VIOLENT IF YOU ALL DON'T ANSWER MY GOD DAMN QUESTION!"
*Bark. Bark!*
They all stop to see the small puppy wagging its tail happily, possibly looking at Tsubaki friends who he has not seen before. Tsubaki groans a little before letting go of Etsuko. As soon as she let her go, the small first year dropped down to the puppy level and started gushing.
"Aww~! Aren't you the most precious thing~!" She said before looking over at Tsubaki. "So this is where you've been heading. Taking care of this small little puppy~!"
"I wasn't aware you had such a soft spot for puppies, Tsubaki." Megumi said.
Tsubaki groans loudly. Feeling her cheeks heat up. "Oh, shut up, you!"
Matsuri asked. "S-So…why in secret, though…"
Tsubaki sighs to herself. "I found this puppy a couple days back and well…I kind of felt sorry for it. So I took care of him."
The four of them looked at the delinquent girl, her initial image of delinquent certainly was fading.
"She surprisingly has a soft spot for cute things…" They all thought at once.
"Look, keep this a secret, will ya? I don't need anyone knowing about this…and if you go spreading this out" Tsubaki said before cracking her own knuckles. "I will break every last one of your bones."
All four of them trembled in fear. "Y-YES MA'AM!"
…
And that's a wrap. Tatsuya is defeated, the sleeping wolves are now under new temporary leadership, Matsuri and Hayakki's future, while uncertain, but they will take it and embrace the unknown. Everything is looking up for our heroes. After a long, grueling battle against the yakuza, our heroes deserve a well-deserved rest. Next time, we enter the final story arc…
Sorry for the long wait. Been meaning to get this done, but a lot of stuff has been going on as of late and I wasn't feeling up for it. But I'm back and back in the fray. And just in time too, because Thanksgiving is around the corner.
This chapter is the epilogue for the Blood Prison arc. I didn't want things to end too depressing, but of course I couldn't ignore the crime that Matsuri and Hayakki committed. So I chose the next best option, ending things with bitter sweet. The real truth behind Yoshimiya's death has been unveiled, but things won't be easy for the both of them. But I felt this was the best route for them to take. Now what happens to them from here on out, the future is filled with possibilities and risks. So get ready.
For the next story arc, it will be the final and last story arc of the entire story. So at first I was gonna have the Wet T-Shirt contest as a separate story, but I decided to have it serve as a story arc for the main story. Just pretend it is my way of rewarding them for that intense battle they had with Tatsuya. A nice little relaxation for our heroes and end things off on a positive note. From here, we will go into more slice-of-life elements, but I don't plan on making the arc go on too long. At least that is my plan, we'll see from here.
By the way, I received some questions about what will be my next story after Hitoyoshi and the Prison School. I have an idea of what will be my next story (just letting you know now it's a completely new story) but I'm not gonna say what it is. While I did say I would love to come back and make a remake of this story, I'm still not entirely on board at the moment. Then there is also Etsuko Chronicle, a fun little spin-off story that I am willing to do, but that won't be until much soon.
Anyways, thank you guys for the continued support as usual. Stay safe and I will see you all in the last and final story arc.
See you all later!