Aru briskly walks down the hallways with an urgent look. It's an incredibly odd sight for the Pandemonium guards to see the Problem Solver's President walking past them. But the hard-boiled outlaw could care less. It didn't take her long to reach a particular double door currently guarded by two Pandemonium members, who were surprised by her sudden presence.
"Is this President's Makoto's office?" she asked them.
"Wha-yes! State your business!" responded the guard.
"I have a letter for your president," Aru showed the letter. "I need to meet her now."
"I'm afraid she's currently meeting with representatives from Trinity. You have to come back later."
"No, you don't understand. I have to give this letter to her now. It's very urgent."
"As I've said, this is not the best-"
"Listen to me! It's important! It's imperative that I meet her now!"
The guard finally narrows her eyes at the outlaw. "I hope you have a good reason why we should let you interrupt her meeting."
Makoto and her cronies are discussing with Trinity regarding the housing Gehenna will provide for potential transfer students. There were disagreements here and there, mostly due to the high standards Trinity students have for housing quality. Then, there are things that need to be rectified regarding the security of the housing so that Trinity students would feel safe living there. Normally, such a thing is handled by the Prefect Team, but knowing Hina, Makoto herself assured them that she would be responsible for setting up surveillance and security of that housing with the assistance of the Prefect Team. The discussions are pretty much going well, and Makoto quietly smiles confidently in a wicked way, prompting Iroha to stare at her in annoyance. Of course, Makoto cannot pass up the delightful feeling that Trinity recognizes her competency as the President of Pandemonium Society.
*CLIC-LACK*
The loud, chunky doorknob caught them all off-guard. Makoto glares at the minions guarding the door and enters so rudely but then softens her gaze a bit upon seeing Aru with them. The rest of them, including Nagisa and Sakurako, stare on with confusion at what's happening.
"What is the meaning of this, my minions?" Makoto growled.
"Mein Präsident!" the guard acknowledged. "The Problem Solver's President wishes to deliver you a letter."
"Just a letter?" Makoto stared at Aru. "We may be acquainted with each other, but that does not grant you the gall to walk into my office for a menial chore in the middle of a meeting. As an outlaw, no less."
"This is not just a 'letter,' President Makoto," Aru responded. "It's urgent that you read this. It's from the Vice President of Abydos herself."
Iroha, Satsuki, and Chiaki widen their eyes, whereas Trinities are growing concerned. Makoto slightly tilts her head and squints her eyes.
"What? Abydos?" Makoto whispered. "Why would she deliver a letter for me?"
"Mein Präsident," the other guard answered. "It's about the Head Prefect."
Makoto's eyes immediately lock in. A gnawing, sick feeling forms in her stomach. "Satsuki."
"Yes, President."
Satsuki retrieves the letter from Aru and hands it to Makoto, prompting her to start reading its contents. The room is in suspense, and the Trinities are kind enough not to ask any questions. Makoto's expression is tame at first, but soon, her eyes move faster, and she leans closer to the letter with an intense gaze. One could easily sense a sweat coming down her hand.
Makoto soon widens her eyes.
*BDAAAAAAAK*
"WHHAAAAAAT?!"
Her voice booms throughout the room, and her desk is nearly cracked. Such a wrathful voice that would send any Pandemonium members within 500 meters running for their lives. Only Iroha who is unfazed by it and shows terrible concern for Makoto. The Pandemonium President only lifts her head at Aru, sparing no glance to any of the nervous Trinitians present.
"Is… is something wrong, President Makoto?" Nagisa warily asked.
"…," Makoto straightened up. "Is Hina in her office?"
Aru checks her phone. "She should be now."
"Good. Iroha, take over for me."
"Okay?" Iroha walked over to see the letter. "What's going on?"
"Excuse me," she said to the Trinities before wearing her cap on and walking fast towards the doors. She looks at her minions. "You two, with me."
"Yes, President!" the door guards followed along.
Aru bows her head to the Trinitians as an apology before quietly catching up to Makoto's group, closing the doors behind her. The Trinitians and the Pandemonium officers look back at Iroha, who now hardens her face at the letter but at a much lesser degree than Makoto's.
"What was that all about?" Chiaki asked, confused as her camera was ready to click.
"Iroha," Sakurako called. "Can you tell us what the letter is all about?"
Iroha rereads the letter and resigns herself with a sigh. "I think it's better if you ask Makoto about it. I don't think I want to."
Thankfully, they noted the graveness in her tone, and they didn't push any further.
Iroha can only shake her head. "What the heck is wrong with you, Hina?"
Hina had just settled in her office, though she was later than usual. The hangover hasn't subsided yet, but nothing a cup of coffee couldn't handle, even if it means testing Sena's patience. In her slightly wobbly state, plus the earplugs, it was more bearable now to use the staplers, the pens, and even a laptop she brought today. However, since she has to deal with a mountain of paperwork again, she changes the earplugs for an MP3 player Kayoko bought for her. Another little trip to the music shop Kayoko recommended a few days ago was worth it now that she has soundproof headphones with which to listen to music.
She looks at one side of her table. Other than her pistol was the novel Aru bought for her that she hasn't finished reading yet, as well as the fresh pot of weeds from Haruka. Then there's the teddy bear from Mutsuki; she needs to remind herself to bring it home after the school day. Having finished about a dozen papers, Ako comes over to deliver a special mug of coffee and Hina uses this moment to take a little break.
Her office has been decorated with the Clicker's additions. A few shelves have been set up on one side to store memorabilia such as gaming cards, signed baseballs and bats, postcards, sports clothing, small statues depicting probably famous adults, pin badges, chip pokers, vinyl records, thriller novels, framed city pictures, and more. The grandfather clock sits exactly adjacent to Hina and continues to tick-tock to indicate the passage of time. A gramophone sits near the couch but hasn't been used yet. For the piano and saxophone, there was thankfully an empty room in the gala building, and Makoto helped bring them there. She saw not much use for the Tiffany lamps, save for a few, so she donated some of them for students who like antique stuff such as those.
Lastly, the last few framed paintings. The small paintings are placed adjacent to the shelves, including the painting of the sleeping tiger. The large Renaissance picture depicting the blind man getting healed was placed right behind Hina's desk, with each tall window on its sides. Despite the messy look Hina possesses, the office still looks surprisingly immaculate and orderly, even with the new additions. Though, her subordinates aren't yet comfortable with how fallen Hina is right now. At least, Iori and Ako are pretty content that she's lost in her own world instead of raging because she heard clicks.
That didn't stop Chinatsu from feeling concerned once she realized Hina was having a hangover. "Did you drink alcohol again last night?"
"What?" Hina shifted the right side of the headphones.
"Did you drink alcohol again?"
Hina spares no answer, and even she can see Iori and Ako staring on with disbelief. "…Sorry."
Chinatsu sighs in irritation but lets it go. "We'll talk about this later. I'll grab some of the paperwork here and lighten your work."
As soon as Chinatsu returns to her desk, Hina continues with her paperwork. Though, realizes the other two are still staring. "…What?"
"N-nothing!" – Iori.
"Ah, do not mind us, Head Prefect! W-we're just about getting back to work!" – Ako.
"Hmm…."
Hina wordlessly returns to her usual chore, albeit at a slow pace. It will be a boring day tod-
*BRAAAK*
"HINAAAAAAAA!"
Hina jumps in her seat, instinctively noticing in her peripherals that the doors breached open. Her subordinates immediately stand up and almost draw their weapons. A fuming Makoto with her two henchwomen briskly walks straight to Hina's desk, much to the dismay of Prefect guards who failed to hold them back. Makoto barely held any reservations about slamming onto Hina's table and instead leaned close to her face.
"What the hell were you thinking, Hina?!"
"Hey! What is the meaning of this?!" Ako angrily yelled.
"Yeah, you better not cause us more problems!" Iori spat venomously. "Even if you're the president-!"
"I just got a letter straight from Abydos' Vice President, and she just warned me about your actions last night!"
Makoto's words stunned Hina's subordinates to the point that their anger vanished. Chinatsu is still reserved the whole time, however.
"Wait, last night?" the medic asked. "What do you mean? The alcohol?"
Hina can see that Makoto's anger was justified for once. She only stares at Makoto with tired defeat.
"..Ako, Iori, Chinatsu. Please wait outside."
"What?!" Ako jolted her eyes out. "But-!"
"For infernal's sake, just wait outside!" Hina grumpily gestured at the door. "Please…."
Chinatsu places a hand on Iori's shoulder from saying something stupid. Chinatsu nods. "As you wish, Head Prefect."
As they leave the room, the Pandemonium guards follow suit, but Makoto holds onto one of their shoulders just as quickly.
"You both stay here," Makoto ordered. "I need you to listen to this."
The guards look at each other hesitantly, and then one of them, whom Hina finally recognizes as the one who offered her condolences a few weeks back, answers. "Yes, President."
Makoto finally sits before Hina. That's the last thing the Prefect officers see before they have to close the doors. The Prefect guards stay in place as the group gathers in the hallway, then realize that Aru is standing near the doors.
"Hey, guys," Aru waved wearily.
"Aru?" Chinatsu acknowledged. "What are you doing here?"
Aru leans off the wall. "I was seeing what Makoto will do now. I hope it's enough to wake her up."
"Wait, huh?!" Iori pointed at the doors. "You're the one who sent her here?!"
"I-I guess I can say indirectly," Aru forced a smile. "I was the one who delivered the letter to her."
"That was you?" Ako inquired.
"Yeah. Hoshino has to take care of things back in Abydos, so I help her deliver it."
"Makoto mentioned that Hina had done something last night. Do you know what she was talking about?" Chinatsu asked.
Aru sighs. "I was already there with Hoshino. We all saw what happened last night."
"Hu-what?!" Ako almost grasped her shirt. "You have to tell us! What happened to Hina last night?!"
"Uuh, well," Aru gently pushed her hands away. "The story isn't long, but…."
Aru's eyes darken.
"It was grim for me to remember."
"You want us to check on Hina?"
"Yeah. Think you can do that? I heard you were already in Gehenna anyway."
"Sure, Sensei. Did she do something?"
"Kasumi just told me she saw Hina bought some alcohol and then headed home."
"W-wait, she-?!"
"Pretty much. She was looking pitiful the last time Kasumi saw her."
"Uh, okay, Sensei. We'll head out to her place and see what's up."
"Alright, give me a call if she's okay."
"Got it, Sensei!"
What the heck was this?! Since when did Hina start drinking alcohol? I didn't really think it was that bad, even after we made sure to avoid any trouble for the Prefect Team. Me and my club actually don't know where she lives, but Hoshino is thankfully with us. She actually wanted a little trip to Gehenna to see the newly opened aquarium this evening after helping us with our fixer job, of course. I was curious to see it, too, but apparently, it was closed much earlier due to water distribution problems. That… really sucks, I can't even describe how disappointed Hoshino was. I was pretty thankful that my dear Haruka hadn't compulsively destroyed the aquarium head-on like she usually does. Now, after Sensei gave us a call, it gave us, especially Hoshino, another reason to stay at Gehenna for a little while longer.
Hoshino isn't exactly happy with what she heard from my call. Mutsuki seems surprisingly as nervous as Kayoko. And I struggle to convince Haruka to calm down and stop it with the dark thoughts.
Apparently, Hoshino has visited Hina's home a few times before. We travel on foot, following her lead throughout the quiet part of the district. Actually, it's pretty quiet here, and I kind of thought it was pretty out of place for Gehenna District.
"Are you sure this is where Hina lives?" I asked.
"Eeeyup~. This is the place," Hoshino replied with a smile. "It's not far out now."
"This place is pretty cozy, though," Mutsuki smiled slyly. "I think I could place a little trap or two at their front doors. It would make for a great awakening in the morning!"
"I don't think Hina would appreciate finding that out within hearing distance," Kayoko commented tiredly.
"But this place is really peaceful," Haruka noted. "Do you think we can set up a hideout here or an office?"
"I think this is a nice place to lay low, probably enough that the Prefect Team won't even think about coming here first," Aru voiced out. "What do you think, Kayoko?"
"I wouldn't take this place as my first pick for an office," Kayoko answered. "But it's okay for a hideout, just as long as Hina doesn't find out we've set up a spot here. Maybe hunker down and only go out at night if we want to stay inconspicuous."
"Hehehe~. Already planning ahead, are we~?" Hoshino complimented.
"That is just the nature of our business, Hoshino," I proudly said. "If I am to strive as an infamous outlaw, a little planning goes a long way for our effort."
"Haha! Really? You fumbled your own plan when you shot the client's package instead of the target."
"S-shut up! I didn't see clearly where he was! I had low visibility!" I retorted in panic at Mutsuki.
"Boss, the guy you shot was directly under the streetlight," Kayoko said, to my embarrassment. "I'll be more surprised if you missed instead."
"Kayoko, please!"
"Hahaha, you young'uns are pretty lively today," I decidedly ignore Hoshino's comment. Oh, my pride as an outlaw….
A-erm, no matter! We have something else important at hand!
We eventually arrived at her home. It's a purple apartment building, a rather high-standard one than the normal apartments near the academy. I appreciate the detail of the building, which consists of neat, smooth purple walls and accents of white on the window frames, alongside the decorative red color that adorns the lines of the roof and the line separating the two floors. Hoshino leads us upstairs to the second floor and towards the very end of that floor. Mutsuki and Haruka gawk at the railings; all of us can see the majority of the district and even the Gehenna Academy at a distance.
I envy getting an office with that view. Anyway!
"This is Hina's place?" I asked Hoshino.
"Yep, we're here~," Hoshino then knocked on the door a few times. "Heya, Hina, you're in there?"
…
…
There's… no answer.
Hoshino knocks again. "Hina, it's me, Hoshino, you hear me?"
We waited a little while longer, but she didn't answer for a single bit.
"Hoshino, are we sure we're at the right place?" I asked.
"Hehehehe! That's rich coming from you, boss~," Mutsuki teased.
"H-hey now!" I whispered in an attempt to retort. "This is not the time to talk about that one time!"
"Man, whoever runs this building should've invested in doorbells," Kayako commented. "Would've made things easier."
"Ueeh~, lazy bums they are, right?" Hoshino agreed.
"Aren't you also lazy, Hoshino?" Haruka asked doubtfully, and she earned a chuckle.
"Aw, dangit, did you have to call out my hypocrisy?"
"Haha~, yeah, but seriously," Mutsuki turned serious. "Don't you think it's already too late to check up on her? She might be sleeping by this point."
"Y-yeah, but we really have to check on her either way," I held my chin. "But how?"
"Don't bother calling her phone," Hoshino shook her head. "I tried recently and she didn't pick up any of my calls."
"Should…. Should I breach the door?" Haruka suggested.
"L-let's not do that, Haruka," I answered with an awkward smile. "I don't want to wake up the neighbors."
"Well, if you really insist," I see Kayoko pull out a hairpin. "I can lockpick it."
"Wait, when did you learn how to do that?"
"Oh, you didn't know?" Mutsuki leaned onto my ears. "She already lockpicked plenty of safes and boxes throughout our contracts, you know? Kufufu, you should know your staff better, boss~!"
"Huh-why didn't you tell me you can do that?!" I was rather baffled, to be honest.
"Because you didn't ask, boss."
….
To hear that straight from Kayoko feels like an insult, even if she didn't mean it.
"Wow, your boss surely is lacking, huh?" Hoshino joked, to my dismay. "Still a long way to be a hard-boiled outlaw."
"Just…. Kayoko, can you open it?"
"Sure, just give me a moment," I nodded at her answer, and we waited.
I stand nearby, fervently observing Kayako insert the hairpin into the lock. Hoshino and Haruka watch the halls while Mutsuki happily gazes out the landscape below. It… takes a longer time than I expected, pretty darn longer than what the movies depicted. But after some time, we finally hear a faint click from the door, and Kayoko stands up.
"I got it open. The honor is yours, boss."
I nod. I take a step forward and push the door forward, letting it glide soundlessly to give us a wide view. To my surprise, I see Hina sitting at the desk with her back facing towards us. And-
She aims her gun at her own halo.
I went into full sprint.
*PLA-DOARR*
I slap her pistol forward just in time. It hits the wall before us. I-I quickly pull her down backward to the floor off the chair, pinning the struggling Hina down as I push and grip her pistol away from herself.
"HELP!"
My scream was enough to knock my friends out of their shocked stupor. Hoshino holds down Hina's left arm and chest while Haruka holds her left leg. Mutsuki holds the other leg. For someone who is pretty smaller than me, she is hellishly strong, like crazy! I don't know why she couldn't throw us off until I realized she was still delirious. I took a quick glance at the desk, and I immediately understood why. It's like holding down a desperate tiger.
"Kayoko, her gun!"
I keep holding her arm down long enough that Kayoko manages to find a window and quickly yanks it out of her hand with some difficulty. Kayoko doesn't know what to do but to keep her distance. Even with the four of us, I could barely move my body to look at Hina's face. As she resists, I could hear her immediate mutters.
"Let me go! Gun, my gun! Why-Why-WHY?! I don't want-! Don't want-!"
"Hina, Hina!" I grasped her Hina's shirt. "Wake up, it's us!"
"Must.. go-!" Hina tried to push me away. "I can't take-can't take it-can't take it-"
"Hina!"
She's too delirious to even recognize me. I-I don't have a choice.
I push her free hand away swiftly. I raise my open right hand as high as I can.
*SLAAP*
Oh God, I hope I didn't go overboard. Hina finally stops moving, though her left cheek looks pretty red. I look up, and… her halo is still there. Good, that's good. Hina is still looking off to her right, drooling from her mouth. I see her eyes move erratically, and she still mumbles about what just happened. I quickly and gently turn her face at me.
"Huh-wha…? Feel… hurt?"
"Hina, Hina! Look at me!" I gritted, holding her face to look straight into my eyes. "Look at me! It's me, Aru! Hina…. You're awake?"
Hina takes a hasty breath and blinks a few times. She then stares at me for a long while. "..A-Aru..?"
I finally let out a small, happy laugh. I just noticed now that a tear dropped on Hina's face.
"Y-you're crying…."
"Why do you think, Head Prefect?!" I tearily retorted, now grasping her shirt. "How could I not? Why were you going to…?"
Hina finally turns her head, and she's surprised at her new company. "What..? What are you all doing here?"
"Paying a visit," Hoshino frowned. "Sensei was worried, you know? Now you went ahead and almost did that?"
"I…," Hoshino let go of Hina's arm, who soon held onto her red cheek. "Why does it hurt here?"
"Aru slapped you, Captain Obvious!" Mutsuki responded with an angry pout. "You didn't have to make our boss cry like that!"
"The most important question right now would be," Kayoko seemed none enthused. "What the hell were you doing, Head Prefect?"
Hina…. She didn't answer Kayoko's question, but she seemed sober enough for all of us to get off her. We soon help her settle onto her bed, with Haruka heading off to get a glass of water while Mutsuki and I sit by her sides. Hoshino and Kayoko helped clear up the mess we had made, and soon, we all stared at what she was drinking.
"…This ain't healthy, you know?" Hoshino held the bottle. "What would they think if their top model student is indulging in this kind of behavior?"
"Does it even matter?" Hina muttered. "There's no point in all this anymore…."
"Hina, please," I grabbed the glass from Haruka. "Here, drink."
I can see Hina's arm is still shaking as she drinks it. For a long while, none of us said a word. I… I never felt the air feels this stifling. This actually feels more intense than that one time we were interrogated by the Feral Hound. Even Mutsuki doesn't feel comfortable trying to brighten Hina up. I-we all wanted to ask why she did it, but…. Hoshino shook her head at all of us. All right…, I sigh for a moment. It's already late anyway.
"Let's get you some rest, Head Prefect," I held her shoulder. "You have tomorrow to worry about."
Hina weakly nods at me, though still staring forward. "I need a glass of whiskey."
"Wha-? But you shouldn't!" Haruka's courage surprised me.
"Are you kidding?!" Mutsuki almost pitched her voice. "No! You're hurt enough already!"
"Look, you're already a mess as it is," Kayoko grimaced. "We can't-"
"Shush, let her be," Hoshino cut us off.
She pours a glass of that alcohol and gives it to Hina, regardless if any of us disagree with it.
"Just one glass, okay?"
Hina merely nods at her, then drinks the entire glass. Afterward, Hina finally sprawls over the bed.
"Aru…. Hoshino…," Hina showed a pained smile that I couldn't look away from. "I'm sorry you have to see that."
"….," I repositioned to beside her and held her shoulder. "Just get some sleep, Head Prefect."
Hina only stares at me but soon falls asleep. I could smell the vapors from her mouth. How long has she been torturing herself like this?
Everyone stares at me except Hoshino, uncertain of what to do. At that moment, I already made up my mind to stay here for tonight.
"Haruka, Mutsuki," I called. "Go outside and see if we wake anyone up. Tell them it was just an accident."
"Y-yes, Boss!" Haruka answered before they headed out. Mutsuki didn't say a single word.
"Kayoko, call Sensei immediately and tell him what happened," I ordered. "We're going to stay here for tonight."
She nods back. "It's for the best."
Kayoko heads off to another room. Leaving me and Hoshino with Hina.
"Guess I'll stay too," Hoshino commented pitifully.
Hoshino soon grabs a paper and a pen to start writing at the desk.
"What are you doing?" I was curious.
"Just a letter," she replied. "Should be enough to get either your student council or Prefect Team to start taking precautions on her health."
I nod. "Do you think the GSC will take any action about this?"
"It's up to Sensei. But I hope it doesn't come to that."
I look back at the disheveled, sleeping Hina. I furrow my eyes at her condition. "I hope so, Hoshino."
Each Prefect officer looks on with every degree of disbelief, shock, and distress. Chinatsu, in particular, seems to feel guilty after hearing Aru's recount.
"I should've volunteered to stay that night," Chinatsu gritted her teeth. "I should've seen it after I found out she was drinking. Why didn't I think…?"
"Chinatsu, it's not your fault," Iori held her arm. "You didn't know that would happen."
"Even then, that doesn't make it right," Chinatsu whispered. "I have failed as a Prefect Medic."
As Iori comforts the medic, Aru and Ako exchange a look at each other, gloomy with how it turned out.
"She has reached that point, then?"
The pretentious outlaw crosses her arms. "I guess so."
Ako nods. "Thank you for telling us, Aru."
Aru opts to not say anything and waits with them.
Makoto does not display any emotion at that moment, but her hench students are incredibly disturbed by what Hina confided to them. Never had she, nor did Gehenna as a whole, had a horrifying case such as Hina's. Makoto wishes she still had any reason to hate her or even to start another rabble with the Prefect Team. It's more preferable than what she is facing right now. She couldn't look away from how messed up Hina looked at her, like an empty shell.
"I gave you all the help I could afford," Makoto restrained her emotion. "And this is how you repay me?"
Hina only moves her eyes. "I'm sorry, Makoto. I didn't mean to be ungrateful. I was…."
"But suicide?" Makoto pitched her voice. "Everyone doesn't want that, and you're the very last person I would've expected to do such a thing."
Hina registers her words for a moment, but then she chuckles. The Pandemoniums could feel the pain, madness, and confusion laced in her choked laugh. It makes Makoto feel more unsettled.
"Why would you care?" Hina finally calms down, still keeping that manic smile. "…Isn't this what you want?"
"What?"
"All those long times in your attempts to humiliate me, degrade me, undermine me, to make the Prefect Team bow before you, and force me to become your lapdog. Well, here I am…."
Makoto backs away. "H-Hina…."
"I'm… so goddamn pathetic enough that I made you look like a saint. It does feel sweet, doesn't it?"
"Hina, just wait a mo-"
"IT'S SWEET."
Makoto jerks her head back. Even her minions nearly lost their grips on their weapons.
"Can't blame that you envy us. That you hate us. We're so insubordinate and a big thorn in your side. Whenever you look at me, it makes you feel good at how pitiful I have become, doesn't it?"
"No, I-yes, I might feel that way," Makoto composed herself. "But that doesn't mean I-"
"Mean what, Makoto? That I don't deserve it?" Hina gritted her teeth, still smiling so uncannily. "You are the true authority of this academy. I'm not. Just a student who is so busy keeping all the chaos away so that this school won't fall. But I guess it won't matter. Everyone is looking to depose me anyway…."
"Hina, you really need help," Makoto whispered aloud. "You're not yourself. You're becoming him."
"Do I…? Hehe… hahahahaha!"
Her raw, mad laugh was just loud enough to be heard from outside the office, and Makoto hoped the Prefect members didn't hear it. Makoto had to clench her fists hard, letting her nails dig into her palms to maintain control. She could almost maintain her gaze into Hina's soulless eyes. It's more like someone is impersonating her into something worse. She…. She hated seeing this. Felt like it was a mistake.
"I guess you're right," her chuckles finally died down. "I don't even know why, yet I still miss him. Maybe that's why I…."
"Hina, please stop," Makoto shook her head. "It doesn't have to be this way. You have to wake up."
"I am. I already am. Hah…. But my mind refused to. How could I? It's all my fault to begin with."
"No, it's not! You didn't know what to do. You didn't have any choice."
Hina suddenly stops smiling, blanking off to her desk. "…I never wanted to be a Head Prefect in the first place, you know?"
Makoto widens her eyes. Her minions are thrown off for a moment.
"I had to be one because no one else could. Because no one could do it as effectively as I am. I always wondered if that was a mistake. I could have been just a normal student. Just to study, have fun with friends, decorate my notes, a leisure stroll with a coffee in hand…."
She wasn't sure if Hina realized it, but Hina's tears began to overflow to her cheeks. Makoto's minions are unsure if they should take any action. The Gehenna Fuhrer herself didn't feel like moving an inch, though she would be lying if seeing her cry didn't make her heart hurt so much.
"I…. I've been considering for a while now."
Makoto raises her eyebrow.
"I-I…. I like to step down from my position as the Head Prefect."
Makoto can only lean forward, shocked by the outlandishness of her decision. Both her minions drop their jaws.
"I-it's for the best for everyone, right? Everyone doesn't want to associate with me anyway," Hina smiled a bit. "The Prefect Team is yours. You can do whatever you want with it, and you finally get your peace of mind of having never to worry about what I do anymore."
A good offer. An offer too good to be true. Yet….
"…Why?"
"Huh?" Hina creased her eyes. "What do you mean 'why?' That's just how you want it, isn't it? Your plan finally comes to fruition-"
*BAAAK* "NO!"
The desk still held up, yet her outburst only caused Hina to grow more confused. "No? What-?"
"I can't accept this! I can't!" Makoto stood still, looming over her. "You can't just give up like this. I won't accept it."
"What? But didn't you-?"
"I already made up my mind, alright?!" Makoto took a couple of breaths. "As much as I dislike your organization, this academy still needs you. Your Prefect Team still needs you."
Hina opens her mouth-
"Shut it for one moment. Let me speak," that was enough to discourage her. "Ever since that incident, I realize how many follies I have committed during my conduct, and that was enough to reevaluate the decisions I made up to this point. We…. I do not have the same competency as you are to uphold the entire order within Gehenna. I…. I still need you, Hina."
"Do you?" Hina bitterly chuckled. "I doubt everyone else feels the same."
"This is not about them. This is about you, Hina," Makoto firmly responded. "As much as I want to despise you, it is still my goddamn obligation to take care of you! I…. I don't want to see you waste away like this."
Hina falls speechless, though her expression becomes apathetic. Makoto composes herself before sitting back down again, leveling their gazes to each other. The Pandemonium President feels her chest becoming too tight to breathe. Having to hear Hina's own words, Makoto realizes something. Has her grudges and jealousy against her and her organization up to this point been all for nothing? Nothing but chasing her own ego and worthless clout, if there's any? Didn't take long for Makoto to realize how shameless she was, and she made herself out like a damn true fool.
Why did this matter now?
Perhaps because she couldn't bear to her hurt more than she needed to. She realizes the hypocrisy of what she is saying, but that's just the truth, isn't it? Every bitter word Hina said, even the mad laugh she had slipped in, shivered her so much, and it cut deep into her stomach. Any victory she gained from sabotaging her became meaningless. Hina wasn't invincible; she was just a student who had to do her job, and she had to add another weight to it all.
"Listen, I know I've tried to undermine your authority plenty of times by now. But I didn't know you had felt that way for a long time until now. About being the Head Prefect. For that, I'm sorry, I really am."
It wasn't enough, she knows that, but at least she could offer that, perhaps more later. Hina remains unresponsive. Makoto is unsure if she should continue this, but she speaks it out anyway.
"Hina, all I ask from you is to reconsider. Stay as the Head Prefect, at least just for a little longer," Makoto clasped her hands together. "If not for me, then do it for Sensei. He doesn't want to see you like this. You're stronger than this, and both of us know that. Please, Hina. Don't throw your life away like this."
Hina… is still unresponsive. Makoto and her cronies can only hope that she actually listened to all that. The silence is too deafening for their own good, and Makoto has to hold her breath for any word that comes out of her mouth. Even after a minute, the Pandemonium escorts are restraining themselves from moving their legs too much. Thankfully…, a sigh from Hina.
"Okay, President Makoto," Hina replied, though doubtful. "I retract my proposal to step down from my position. I just hope I don't regret it."
Said president lets out a relieved sigh. "Thank you, Hina. I assure you made a good decision."
"We'll see…."
Makoto stands up, wearing her cap. "I will inform President Sena immediately regarding your incident."
"…She's going to be harder on me, isn't she?"
"I'm afraid so. Have a good day, Head Prefect."
"Yeah…. You too."
Makoto stares for a few seconds before she leaves the office, gesturing for her minions to stay. Hina only sits there and watches as Makoto closes the doors with a resounding click, forcing Hina to restrain her fright. With a sigh, Hina decides to continue on her business with the paperwork, wearing her headphones once again.
Outside, Makoto stands in the halls, considering her thoughts. The Prefect officers and Aru finally approach them.
"What will happen to Head Prefect, President Makoto?" Ako asked.
"…She will still serve as the Head Prefect, but in a limited capacity," Makoto replied. "I must report this incident to President Sena immediately. You will receive further instructions from her as soon as possible."
"O-okay," Iori glanced at the doors. "So, what will we do now?"
Makoto stares at the elven medic. "You're the Prefect's medic, correct?"
Chinatsu corrects her glasses. "Yes, president."
"Then you know what to do."
"Of course, president."
"Then I shall count on you. I ordered two of my minions to stay here, keeping an eye on her. I'm giving you exclusive authority over them to decide what to do. And only you alone. Do you understand, Ms. Chinatsu?"
She smiles. "Understood, president. I do my best to not disappoint."
"I don't care if you disappointed me. Just make sure your Head Prefect remains well."
"We will. Thank you, president."
Makoto nods, then looks at another person. "Ms. Aru, I thank you for your immediate delivery of that letter. I'll be sure to compensate you for your actions."
"U-uh, there's no need, president," Aru stiffly replied. "I was just doing what's right."
Only Iori chuckles quietly at her remark.
"Nonsense, I should've done more than watching from the sidelines," Makoto shook her head. "I must take my leave now. I have other businesses to take care of."
They give her an immediate farewell before they, including Aru, resign themselves into the office. Unbeknownst to them, a lone student happened to pass by and eavesdrop on their entire conversation from behind a pillar wall near the office. Picking up her Diner's Outlaw, she soon leaves the scene, no longer wishing to overstay her welcome.
Rin had never seen Sensei work so brutally fast on this fine morning. However, the reason behind that was horrifying. Hina's attempt at…. She couldn't dare finish that sentence. Due to that reason, his plans for this evening have been canceled, and he left as soon as he could in the early afternoon. Rin couldn't imagine the guilt he might have felt from not having to visit Hina for so long. Even Yuuka, who had already been informed of the circumstance, shared the same morbid sentiment with her. Yet, they were assured to leave this one to Sensei.
Seeing what remains of his paperwork on his desk, Rin and Yuuka have agreed to help finish them off during his absence. While working on them, Rin couldn't help but contemplate how she should report this to the rest of the head offices and Director Kanna. Sensei did say to give Hina more time. She starts to wonder if it is still likely to give her such a chance when her low point is sitting too close for comfort.
Junko is not really in any mood at all. No food could dissuade her from feeling so dejected on this very day. She's on her way to meet the rest of the club about another plan Haruna cooked up about a rare delicacy, and it turns out they are currently in a standoff with the Helmet Gangsters. A legendary shark in a crossfire; their next target to discover its culinary taste. Unfortunately, Junko could care less about it and would rather stay out of trouble for now.
Following the coordinates Akari gave, it took her a while to find them down in the slums. She soon finds her group in a big alleyway, currently facing off against the gangsters and their leader, Rabu, the altyn-helmeted redhead officer. Junko huffs as she quietly walks over to her group.
"Give us your Legendary Himamoi Shark, and we will be on our way," Haruna demanded.
"Like hell we will!" Rabu spat back. "I'm kicking my own ass getting my hands on one, and I ain't lettin' ya take away our only payday!"
"Aw, come on now! Can't we have a little taste of it?" Izumi looked on with puppy eyes. "Hearing how pricey it is makes it more tantalizing as a luxury food."
"Go eat your own hands, ya' fat cow!" Rabu's subordinate spat back. "This one's not for eating!"
"Uwaah!" Izumi comically felt shaken.
"My, my, that's not nice to call her like that," Akari kept her smile. "Perhaps a retaliation is in order, Haruna?"
"Of course, Akari," Haruna smirked, prepping her scoped rifle. "I shall not stand by to let such an insult-"
"Oh, will all of you quit that already!" Junko announced in annoyance, catching them all off-guard. "Don't start giving the Prefect Team more trouble right now!"
"Ah, it is nice of you to join us, Junko," Haruna dismissed her remarks. "We were just about to start teaching these disgraceful ladies a lesson about manners."
"Manners?! Hah!" Rabu scoffed. "Who gives a crap about that? We gonna kick your asses to kingdom come!"
"Arm yourselves, fellow gourmets," Haruna and her cronies aimed forward. "We'll fire on my-"
"Stop this already!" Junko yanked Haruna closer, much to everyone's amazement. "Don't start fighting here! Not today!"
"Oh? What is this, Junko? Has the Prefect team discouraged you so much from discovering more culinary?" Haruna questioned in amusement. "I'm aware that the Head Prefect isn't doing well now. But that's all the lesser reason for us to worry about the-"
"HINA ALMOST KILLED HERSELF!"
That declaration alone was worthy of getting blasted by a tank shell, maybe worse than that. Both sides soon lower their weapons. The gangsters' fingers nervously slip off the trigger, and Rabu seems to forget to breathe. The fellow gourmets' expressions change into alarm. Haruna's face is at her palest, white enough to make her blood run cold.
"Hina almost- What do you mean?"
"I heard it back at the Prefect's office. The Problem Solver President told the Prefect officers what happened. Hina tried to shoot her own halo last night before she was intervened. Do you want to give her more reason to do it again?!"
The air became deadly still. Both sides are now exchanging looks, and for the gangsters' part, including Rabu, they shiver at the implications. Rabu decides to slowly stow her shotgun away before wearing off her helmet.
"Y-y'know what? I-I think we'll pass this fight," Rabu barely looked over her shoulder. "Guys, pack that shark up quick. We gotta leave now."
Haruna turns back at the retreating gangsters and soon gestures at her fellow clubmates. "Lower your weapons, fellow gourmets. It's not worth it."
"What?" Izumi was baffled as they holstered their weapons. "But the shark…."
"Change of plans," Haruna answered. "Let us leave for Abydos instead. It has been a while since I've tasted Shiba Seki Ramen once again."
Junko gives a thankful nod. Izumi perks up while Akari hums.
"That's a good idea. I dearly miss that taste so much," Akari voiced out.
"Then it's settled," Haruna checked her phone. "Let's head out to the nearby train station. We should have enough time before the next train arrives."
"Okay!" – Izumi
"Of course!" – Akari
"Great…." – Junko
They soon depart from the alleyway. Junko sees Haruna is still smiling, though much smaller than usual, and perhaps a realization of almost committing a grave sin. Such a thought left a bitter taste in her mouth. Junko sighed as she trailed behind them, the last person to leave the scene.
"Hina, whatever you're feeling right now, I hope you can gather yourself soon and get better."
Things have been eerily quiet this afternoon, save for the ticking of the grandfather clock. It's hard for Hina to mask her surprise that the Pandemonium guards actually helped her with some of the paperwork under Chinatsu's direction. After Makoto's visit, Ako and Iori are becoming more and more compelled to not say a single word in Hina's presence. Aru only stands near Hina's desk, frowning as she looks over the gifts she and others have given on the table. Chinatsu is the only one who can speak confidently in her presence, and she tells the Pandemonium guards what they need to know.
Ako and Iori soon have to excuse themselves from the room. They both received a notification for a business arrangement consultation elsewhere. With the paperwork finished, Hina and Chinatsu finally focus on their schoolwork, specifically their long-due math work. Aru and the two Pandemonium guards take this time to look around the office, particularly the collections on the shelves, and soon become astonished by the sight of what Hina called the Clicker's Legacy. Chinatsu can tell that they are envious of Hina's collection, especially having an intact, working gramophone for use. Something about seeing all the paintings, memorabilia, and other vintage items radiating such a sacred air that even the minions do their best to tread their paths very lightly.
"I don't know about you, but this is pretty incredible," the straight, short-haired Pandemonium member carefully held a signed baseball. "It's like we just walked into a small historical museum."
"I know, right?" the white-haired four-eyes minion's hand glide gently along a row of shelves, eyeing each piece of collection. "He could've sold for millions of yen from how antique these stuffs looked."
"All the more reason we should be careful with it," the first guard returned the ball to its place. "These relics are irreplaceable, after all."
"Indeed," Aru agreed. "I would die to decorate my office with priceless artifacts like these. Even outlaws have such appreciation for arts and pieces of history."
"Uhh…. Which criminal are you again?" the second guard trailed off.
"I-it's Problem Solver 68!" Aru became bewildered. "Have you never heard of us?"
"Problem Solver…? Oooh!" the first guard realized. "Aren't you the one who sells those forged dispensation letters?"
"Wha-?! Well, you're not wrong. We're fixers for hire, in truth!"
"Yeaaaah, other than that. No, I don't think I heard anything noteworthy about you."
"Auuggh!"
Their conversation soon steers back to the collection before them. Chinatsu quietly smiles as the white-haired guard gawks at the memorabilia while the black-haired guard admires each piece of it with such thoughtfulness. Aru seems surprised at the presence of poker chips and cards but enjoys the luxurious vibe they radiate. However, there's one thing that did confuse the spectators.
"Is there no picture of the Clicker's portrait?" the first guard asked. "Or at least his family?"
"There's none," Chinatsu answered, approaching them from behind. "At least, according to his will for Head Prefect."
"Really?" Aru raised an eyebrow. "They didn't miss anything?"
"None. Even the Head Prefect and President Makoto did a double check on the list of his will."
"I wonder why," the second guard mulled over. "It feels like… he didn't care about it. I wonder what his face looks like."
"I don't think we need to."
The second guard turns her head at Chinatsu, patting the hair bun on the back of her head. "How so?"
"His mask is already memorable enough, isn't it? There's no need to find out more. We disturbed his rest enough."
The white-haired Pandemonium member bows her head and pushes her glasses inward. "I guess you're right."
Aru turns back at the collection, frowning thoughtfully. "Do you think he made the right choice?"
Chinatsu ponders her question, looking back at Hina, who's still lost in her music. "I'm not certain, but it is his business, not ours. Who are we to question it?"
Aru glances at Hina. "I just don't think that's necessary."
Chinatsu sighs. "You and me both."
*CLIC-CLACK*
They turn upon the sound of the door. Hina merely glances the moment she sees the door move in her peripheral. Lo and behold, it was Sensei himself standing in the office. It didn't matter if he didn't knock. His presence was very welcoming, and the Pandemonium guards, Aru and Chinatsu, were overwhelmed with awestruck relief. As for Hina, she is staring on with a blank look, wondering if this is one of her hallucinations. The many blinks she had made were enough to confirm that he really was here as he looked on with a worried smile.
"Hey, Hina. I'm sorry I could only arrive today," Sensei softly greeted. "Are you feeling well, Hina?"
It seems it takes her a few seconds to register his words, but her expression gradually changes, with tears threatening to overflow. "S-Sensei…."
She dashes from her desk and slams herself onto Sensei, hugging him tightly with her wings sprawling out to embrace his being. "Sensei..!"
It actually shocked the Pandemonium members to see how truly vulnerable Hina was, with the white-haired guard off-handedly mentioning how adorable this sight was.
"There, there, now," he delicately brushed her hair. "I'm sure you have a lot to talk about."
They all soon settle down at the armchairs and couch, Sensei and Hina being the ones to take the latter. Hina sobs onto his arm for some time, leaving plenty of wet marks around his shoulder and sleeve. But it was enough for her to talk of how she was feeling, what she was experiencing, how… that dream of him kept harassing her at night. In contrast to what the old Makoto would say about Hina being a cunning person, Hina admits everything she experienced in rather explicit detail. Even the way Hina describes her encounters in her dream is vivid but brutally graphic. The Pandemonium guards have to withstand mentally what Hina described, and they wish they were out on the field instead.
If that wasn't enough, Hina's speech was inconsistent. Coherent at one moment, the next, her words become incorrigible. Nothing more than a madwoman's rambling, then accompanied by a senseless laugh. Sensei never said a word and frowns as he listens. Aru and Chinatsu share the same sentiment as the guards: their spines shiver, and their throats ache as they have no choice but to listen. Thankfully, her sorrowful ramblings had stopped, and she was content enough to cling to his arm like a lost child.
Hina's body jolts, much to everyone's fright. But they all turned to see that it was Makoto and Sena who entered the room.
"S-Sensei?" Makoto jerks her head forward. "I didn't think you would come today."
"How couldn't I?" Sensei smiled back a bit. "Hey there, Sena. Aru already informed me of the situation. I came as fast as I could."
"I see. We are thankful that you are here, Sensei," Sena sighed, disappointed in herself. "And I deeply apologize for my lackluster effort on her case. I should have anticipated something like this would happen."
"You should've. But I can't exactly blame you about that," Sensei's words became bitter. "No students would even think about doing that in Kivotos, aren't they?"
Makoto swallows a lump in her throat while Sena, still keeping that indifferent look, sits next to Hina. Sena then taps the still-clinging Hina until she turns her head slightly.
"Are you okay, Hina?" Sena asked, to which Hina stared for ten seconds before nodding slightly. "Okay, Makoto and I have discussed extensively about a new set of rules in order to maintain your health."
Sena turns to the others. "The rest of you will need to hear this as well, especially the both of you."
The Pandemonium members glance at each other before the first guard points at herself. "W-wait, you mean us?"
"Yes, you," Sena turned to the adult. "Sensei, I would like to hear your input regarding these new precautions."
"I'm all ears, Sena. You have the stage," he replied approvingly.
"Very well. Here are the new rules and procedures we will implement…."
The rest of the afternoon is spent explaining the strict instructions necessary to avoid the same attempt Hina did. This includes constant supervision, monitoring risk items (including guns), detailed communication between Hina and other potential caretakers, implementing activity logs to assess patient behavior, and especially modification of Hina's responsibility as the Head Prefect. Chinatsu volunteered to watch over her, but due to conflict with Prefect's nature of administrative duties, Makoto denied her and appointed her currently present minions to monitor Hina's activity. Sensei asks here and there, having disagreements about which precautions are deemed unnecessary in his eyes. Hina never paid attention to much of it, but she did register some that she deemed important to abide by, especially medicine.
By the time the day enters the earliest of the evening, their discussions are finally adjourned, with all of them agreeing to the arrangements, and then Hina acquiesced with the new set of precautions Sena prepared.
"Starting today, effective immediately, Head Prefect Hina must abide by all instructions and precautions that have been set by the Medical Emergency and Pandemonium Society. Should any personnel find any deviation from these precautions, or in any instances where the Head Prefect is acting at risk of herself, they must act accordingly and report to me or President Makoto immediately. Everyone understands that?"
Everyone can only nod at Sena. Sensei is smiling warmly as he caresses Hina's head.
"Good. Then that concludes our meeting."
"You two," Makoto directed to her minions. "Head back home and grab what you need. You'll be staying at her place for a while."
"Ja, Mein Präsident!" both Pandemonium guards soon leave the room.
Makoto takes an empty seat across from Aru. "How was she doing while I was away?" Makoto asked worriedly at Chinatsu.
"Well…," Chinatsu looked back, seeing that Hina was too tired to cry more. "She was… rather explicit about a lot of things."
"That's just putting it lightly," Sensei sniffed at Hina's hair. "Are you feeling better, Hina?"
"…A bit," she weakly whispered.
Aru sighs at her answer. "She just needs to spend more time with her friends right now."
"That much I agree," Chinatsu voiced out. "Especially since last night."
Sena turns to Chinatsu. "Do tell me much about what she said while I was away. I think it's best that we start her counseling here while Sensei is present."
"Are you okay with that, Sensei?" Chinatsu asked.
"Well, as long as Hina is fine with it," Sensei answered. "I won't mind."
"Can… can I stay?" Makoto asked. "I like to witness her counseling firsthand."
"Hina?" Sena called, to which she answered with a slight nod after five seconds. "As long as you don't cause us much disturbance, you may."
"Thank you," Makoto rubbed her hand uncomfortably.
"Without further ado, let's start this counseling by answering my first question: how do you feel today?"
Hina's counseling took almost the majority of the early evening. Sena soon left after she was satisfied with the direct observation, which included written behavior results, future prescriptions, restrictions on other substances (especially alcohol), and recommended activities to cheer herself up. What was left of the evening was spent with her friends and Sensei, reluctantly accepting their offer to study or even play games that were available in the office.
By the time the clock reads 7 PM, all save for Aru have to leave the office, with Makoto and Sensei being the last to leave after giving a last hug to Hina for today.
The sun has sunk well into the horizon as Hina glances back to see her beloved academy become smaller and smaller from a distance. She checks her pistol again, unloaded and with its slide locked back. At least she's happy not to have to click anything on it. Though her current company, Aru, is walking by her side to escort her home. It feels odd to have a friend who is a less-popular criminal to escort her back home, but she's grateful about it. Yet….
"Shouldn't you be heading back to your team after this? It's a long way from here."
Hina had to ask, really. This part of the neighborhood was quiet enough that she was fine enough without the earplugs. Aru did say she wanted to stay at her place again, but it seemed unnecessary for her to go through all this trouble to begin with.
"It's fine, really. I already let Kayoko know ahead of time about my plans today," Aru assured her. "They should be able to handle other contract jobs without me."
"As guns for hire?"
"Well…," Aru sheepishly scratched her cheek. "Our current contracts are courier jobs and construction work, so to speak. Not really the kind of contracts we take, but hey, beggars can't be choosers as long as we get paid."
"Is that so?"
"Don't worry. It will be a matter of time before we take on a more challenging contract! Perhaps a contract where the mafia employs our services," Aru's eyes sparkled at the idea. "That will surely improve my notoriety as a hard-boiled outlaw I always aim to achieve."
Hina tilts her head. "Are you threatening me with a good time?"
"W-wait-wait-wait-wait!" Aru waved off with both hands in panic. "T-that's not what I meant! It was just a slip of the tongue, I swear!"
Hina stares on with grave incredulity.
"…Hahahaha," her expression suddenly changed to one of slight warmth, smiling back wearily. "Sorry, I couldn't help it."
"Jeez, I know you're the Head Prefect, but did you have to scare me like that?" Aru composed herself, then smiled. "It's good to see you actually cheered up, though. That's what you really need right now."
"Huh, I guess so."
It's been a while since Hina has felt this level of comfort. Yet, she also felt bad, felt scared that she only gave her friends a burden so heavy she might as well better be left alone deep in the ocean. Because of the agony she felt, the tortures she experienced are painful but also absurd; she fears that no one would even bother trying to understand her. Hina almost went off to the deep end because she couldn't stand listening to clicks? It's definitely an immediate laughing stock that even Pandemonium Society would like to take advantage of.
Yet, Aru, Sensei, and others are still willing to lend their shoulders; even the annoying Makoto decides to help her despite them having no to little understanding of her grief. It feels selfish, yet she can't lie that she didn't need it.
Aru soon spots two persons ahead of them. "Ah, there they are!"
It was the same two Pandemonium guards Makoto appointed, each carrying a big duffel bag containing their personal items.
"President Aru, Head Prefect," the short-haired guard greeted. "We'll be right behind you."
Hina nods. "This way…."
They trail behind Hina as they traverse through the neighborhood. It is as quiet as Aru remembered last night, though there are still students and civilians wandering about. Taking a closer look again at the buildings around them, Aru, alongside the Pandemonium members, realized that this neighborhood building weren't as luxurious as expected but still good enough to be considered the best place for living quality.
"So, this is where the Head Prefect lives?" the short-haired guard asked. "It's surprisingly peaceful. Have you been here before?"
"No, it's my first time as well," the white-haired guard replied. "This seems like a nice place for a stroll in the morning."
"Or to lay low if trouble comes," Aru added in.
"Hah, guess so," the first guard agreed. "Just hope that the Hot Springs never caught wind of this place."
They soon reach Hina's apartment, and the appointed watchers immediately settle down their belongings while Aru keeps Hina company. It was already late anyway, so Hina had given them permission to use the bathroom and get changed. Aru is helping Hina tidy up her desk and shelf by then as one of the watchers is checking her phone while the other stares out the window, admiring the view under the coming moonlight. The short-haired Pandemonium member then turns to the busy Hina before opening up a book and writing something in it.
After Hina pats down a column of tidy folders, she turns to the short-haired guard. "What's your name?"
She lifts her head. "I'm sorry?"
"What's your name?"
She stares for a moment, then back at the book. "I'm Motoi."
The white-haired guard catches on with the conversation. "Mine's Kofuyu."
Hina smiles weakly. "It's good to know you both. I'll be in your care from now on, I guess."
Motoi nods. "Don't worry, Head Prefect. We'll keep an eye on you."
"Please, just call me Hina. No need to be formal."
"…Alright, Hina. I hope we can get along just fine."
*GROOWLL*
They all freeze, then turn at the source of the sound. Aru has just placed down a stack of folders and is now severely flustered. Aru smiles awkwardly at Hina.
"U-um, you don't happen to have food here, do you?"
…
…
"Any of you want to cook?" Hina finally asked.
Motoi looks past them both. "Kofuyu?"
"Ah, I got it!" She hops off Hina's bed. "I'm gonna need an extra hand."
"I'll help," Aru volunteered.
"Hope you don't mind us raiding your fridge!" Kofuyu added.
"Don't worry, I won't mind," Hina assured them.
They both left, leaving Hina and Motoi in the room. Hina sits down at her desk and stares at the writing Motoi and the window. None of them said a word for a while, though the silence was deafening for Motoi that she finally realized Hina was staring at her.
"Is… is something wrong?"
"Huh? No, nothing. Just, uh…," Hina paused. "I'm thinking of nothing at the moment."
"A habit of yours?"
"…Yes. A new habit of mine, I think. I think I keep doing it after that incident."
"Hmm," Motoi then wrote down in her book, her right eye remained shaded by her fringe hair.
"What are you writing anyway?"
Motoi looks up. "Assessing your environment for any risk items."
Hina chuckles. "You think I would use anything else than my gun?"
"Corner of table, pencils and pens, the window," Motoi elaborated. "Can you really blame President Sena for not taking second chances?"
"…I guess not."
They both stay in awkward silence as Motoi continues to write.
"How is it like working for Pandemonium Society?"
"Hmm… it's chaotic."
"No crap."
"But I'm very proud of it. To be working alongside a charismatic leader like President Makoto herself."
"Is she really that convincing?"
Motoi smiles a bit. "When she really tries very hard. She's a steadfast woman, so it doesn't matter how much she fumbles. She'll always get back right at it."
"Hmm…." Hina gave a thoughtful look. "What do you think about us? About me?"
"Before all this?"
"Yes."
Motoi curls her lips, lowering her book. "Nothing much, honestly. I don't have anything negative to say about Prefect Team, but I kept it to myself. Makoto doesn't like it if any of us don't have the slightest semblance of hate against you guys. As for you…."
Motoi holds her chin. "I actually didn't like you at first because you look pretty menacing."
Hina almost chokes herself as she chuckles. "R-really?"
"Yeah, but I'm starting to prefer that over how you… became now."
"Uh-huh."
Motoi keeps her smile as she writes. "I'm actually jealous, you know?"
Hina raises an eyebrow. "About what?"
"About Sensei. He completely adores you so much, like what we see back there. Even our president is throwing tantrums at how often he visits you than her."
Hina looks away with her cheeks slightly reddened. "T-that's true…."
"How did you even win him in your favor? Just curious."
"I wouldn't say I won over him. I remain straightforward with him and help him out a bit. But I do think he and I share some similarity."
"That is?"
"Regarding paperwork."
Motoi blinks. "Oh, that…. That makes sense."
Hina sighs. "I wonder when he's going to stop calling me Hiniature again."
Motoi covers her mouth. Hina could see her shoulder quaking a bit.
"What's so funny?"
Motoi lets out a long exhale. "I think that name really suits you, Hina."
"P-please, I'm not that cute…."
"That is cute!"
They both jump in place, turning their heads to realize it came from Kofuyu.
"You heard that?" Hina asked.
"Yeah, we did!" Aru came behind Kofuyu. "Now you're not scary. You really are that cute, Hina. Uuh, I wish Sensei also had a nickname for me."
Hina pauses for a moment. "Didn't Sensei call you a dork?"
"Anything besides that!"
Motoi chuckles, shaking her head at the exchange. "Is the dinner ready, Kofuyu?"
"Just almost," the four-eyes replied. "Wanna eat together?"
"Let's," Hina stood up. "Before Aru's stomach grumbles again."
"H-hey, Hinaaaa!" came Aru's embarrassed denial.
Hina can only smile at her new company. That smile is also enough to reassure them that she finally cheers up, bit by bit. After dinner, they all decide to play cards together, and from there, Aru and Hina get to know the Pandemonium guards a bit more. It is not until Hina finally feels sleepy that they decide to call it a day, and they see to it that Hina is the first to sleep before any of them can finally rest.
Motoi is actually a night owl. There's something that is so appreciative about the darkness under the moonlight. The atmosphere is especially ethereal in this peaceful night, and looking out the window and seeing the landscape of the city and her academy in the distance blanketed by soft iridescent light is hypnotizing and comfortable even. If only there's a way to caress it.
Looking behind her, all three of them are fast asleep: Kofuyu in her mobile futon, Hina in her bed, and Aru, for some reason, decided to sleep by sitting against Hina's bed while holding onto her scoped rifle. Nodding, she logs in past activity for today in her book before putting it on the desk. Her eyes soon land on the empty M1911, and she takes a closer look at it. She examines critically the classic features of the gun.
"So, this was the Clicker's gun?" she whispered. "Looks like something Valkyries would have. But it's beautiful, nonetheless. Wonder why she has it."
She soon realizes an engraving on its slide.
"'Fight for your dream….' Is it meant as his reminder or an advice for her?"
Motoi had personally seen the footage, save for the part where he... did that. She couldn't stomach seeing something that graphic. She fleetingly remembers his conversation with Hina about his dream, though it was still vague for her even after he elaborated on a dream he had experienced. She has a few guesses of what he dreams of, but it's still conjecture, unreasonable ones at that, and she doesn't want to entertain that kind of fallacy. She puts down the gun and-
Wait.
One of the drawers below her is open.
….
….
Normally, she wouldn't be messing around with people's items. But since this is Hina's…. One of her duties is to examine her personal items, after all.
She opens the drawer. She is surprised to find nothing in the drawer but an item. Its four digits of zeroes stare back at her in a green glow. It's unknown whether Hina forgot to turn it off or it will remain on as long as it has batteries. It looks pretty innocent enough, but… isn't this the same device she saw back in that terrible footage?
Curiosity kills the cat, but she'd be lying if she didn't want to take a closer look.
She reaches for the device.
A hand immediately grips onto her wrist.
"Don't."
Motoi turns her head, frightened. Hina is standing next to her with a terrible look.
"Wha-? When did you-?"
"Close it, please."
Thankfully, Motoi is wise enough to heed the signs. She closes the drawer as ordered.
"Thank you."
Motoi gradually turns at her. "Was that his-?"
"Yes."
"…Why-?"
"It's in his will."
Motoi squints her eyes a little and immediately sees the fear in her eyes. She takes a step back in her respect. "Sorry about that."
"It's fine."
"…."
"…."
"Why are you awake?"
"…I just need a drink."
"I see."
"…. Can I ask you the same thing?"
"Hmm…. Night gazing."
"Is that so?"
They both turn to the nest at the open window, and pillows lie about to comfortably indulge the view.
"Do you want to watch the night together?" Hina asked.
Motoi is taken aback by the offer. "Is it okay?"
"I like to know what it feels like to watch the night with someone. Someone else besides Sensei."
Motoi considers it and smiles. "I'll be honored, Head Prefect."
Hina merely nods. After getting her drink, Hina soon joins her at the window's nest, sitting side by side to look at the haloed skies. It's… weird for Motoi to have someone from the Prefect Team to depend on her, much less Hina herself. But Motoi doesn't feel scared or too cautious around her now, which is a given. As they stare in silence at the night skies, she feels Hina leans onto her. Motoi turns to see that Hina has become sleepy again and clings to her arm and shoulder. It didn't take long for Hina to finally sleep soundly, and Motoi felt relatively comfortable enough that she decided to risk it and rubbed her hair, astonished at how silky it felt.
Afterward, Motoi finally feels sleepy, too, but she smiles. She doesn't know why, but she feels that from this point on, a new relationship might bloom between the Prefect Team and Pandemonium Society. One that will improve the lives of Gehenna Academy.