The Episode Starts with a shot showing the towers of the D.U., smoke emanating from nearby.
"This is what happens when SRT is disbanded." Saki sighs.
A tank fires a round before receiving a shot that pierces straight though it, causing it to explode.
Koharu gasps, having an idea of who might have fired that shot. 'There's only one person I know of who could have pierced clean through a tank!'
Through the explosion, Wakamo can be seen before jumping away to reveal Sensei standing with 4 other students. Hasumi, Chinatsu, Yuuka, and Suzumi.
"Vice President Hasumi!" Koharu exclaims in excitement.
"Huh? What's going on? Wasn't Sensei just in Abydos?" Serika questions.
"This is probably a flashback. Pretty common in anime and such." Midori explains.
"In the last episode, a news person explained having to regain control of Sanctum Tower. Perhaps this is that operation." Miyako says.
"A-A-Against the F-F-Fox of Calamity? M-Must have been a tough battle." Yuzu mutters.
"Y-Yes. I hear she was only captured due to the efforts of our upperclassmen." Miyu explains to the other shy girl.
"Is that Yuuka helping them there? Man, I wouldn't wanna be in their position, dealing with HER." Momoi says.
"Yes, but it seems the demon Yuuka is an ally for this battle." Arisu says.
"This girl gets it!" Momoi happily exclaims, gesturing to Arisu.
Rin: So, you've successfully reclaimed the Schale building, Sensei.
The five turn around to see Rin walking up to them.
Sensei: Only thanks to everyone's hard work, Rin.
"That girl... she's the current student in charge of the whole city..." Ayane says.
Hanako frowns. She doesn't like politicians like the Sisterhood and Tea Party. 'She's probably no different.' However, Hanako isn't the only one unhappy.
"So she's the idiot who shut down SRT?" Moe questions.
"Seems that way." Saki agrees. "Look at how good it's done her."
Rin: Then, would you please follow me?
Cut to the Basement of Schale, where a strange stone levitates.
"That stone appears rather ancient..." Hanako says, though trying to ascertain its purpose was beyond her. 'I have heard tale of a student who enjoys decoding these sorts of things. Perhaps she would've liked to give the stone a look over.
Rin: This is where we store the student council president's personal effects.
Rin, who was facing the stone, turns to face Sensei. Walking over to him and handing him something.
Rin: Take this, Sensei.
We are shown the object.
Sensei: A smart tablet?
Rin: The student council president left it for you.
Sensei accepts it.
Rin: The Shittim Chest. Its OS and system structure are complete mysteries. None of us were able to activate it. Perhaps you can discover its secrets.
"She speaks like the tablet is an ancient relic itself." Hifumi brings up.
"Arisu thinks that's plausible. There is a lot of old machines outside Millennium." Arisu brings up.
"Ah, I've heard about it! The old Millennium ruins was it?" Nonomi asks, to which Arisu happily nods.
"Interesting theory. However something tells me it's not from there." Ayane states.
Sensei looks determined at the Shittem Chest and activates it. The screen goes dark.
It then switches to Sensei in Arona's digital space. There, he finds at a sleeping Arona.
Arona: Castella cake... Banana milk goes better... than strawberry milk...
"Ugh, stop that A.I. girl. You're making me hungry now." Momoi groans.
"Get food. It's free after all." Midori brings up, to which her sister complies.
Sensei approaches the sleep talking girl and starts poking her cheek. Arona lazily opens her eys and then closes them before quickly opening them again. She bolts upright, panicky looking around.
Arona: Huh? Wha? Ah?! If you're here in this space does that mean you're...?! Are you...
Sensei: Thats right.
Sensei takes out his badge and presents it.
Sensei: I'm Sensei, from Schale.
Arona's look is a mixture of shock and awe. She then shakes her head and assures herself.
Arona: Calm down, calm down!
She looks back up to Sensei.
Arona: Well, uh... Ah right!
Her halo shifts from a blue to green.
"Huh... just watching a halo change its shape and colour is just strange." Serika says.
Arona: My name is Arona! I'm the system manager in the Shittem Chest and I serve as its main OS. Think of me as your trusty secretary!
Sensei: It's nice to meet you, Arona.
Arona: Yeah! It's nice to meet you too. Sensei!
She smiles.
Cut to an overhead shot of the Abydos dessert where some helmet gangsters are running away.
"Right into the action we go, huh. Guess young people making this have no patience." Hoshino comments.
"Pretty bold to assume the people who sent us this are young." Miyako says.
Gangster 1: Run!
Gangster 2: Out of my way!
Gangster 3: Help!
Gangster 4: Retreat!
Shiroko watches from above as they retreat. Everyone sans Ayane with her.
Ayane: Well done everyone. Thats another Helmet Gang outpost we've dismantled.
"Nn. Rightfully so." Shiroko agrees.
"Doesn't help that those helmets make them all the more shootable." Serika adds.
Shiroko: Right.
Arona: Well done, Sensei!
Sensei: Ah, thank you, Arona.
Shiroko turns to look at Sensei. Hoshino yawns.
Hoshino: Phew, I'm exhausted... These old bones need a nap.
"I hear yah, me." Hoshino also yawns. "I might just fall asleep midway through the show or something."
Nonomi: Oh dear!
Sensei: You all ready to head back to the school?
FTF: Yeah! Okay...
Meanwhile Serika eyes Sensei suspiciously from the other side of the room.
"What's with that look?" Miyako questions.
"This Sensei guy just can't be helping us out of the goodness of his heart. Obviously he's up to something!" Serika declares.
"Ah, Serika. Perhaps y-you should give him the benefit of the doubt?" Hifumi suggests.
"She- She might be right though!" Koharu agreed with the cat eared student. She mumbles the next part to herself. "Helping out, then demanding... those kinds of things!..." Her face starts to turn red.
"Huh? What kinds of things?" Hifumi hears Koharu's muttering. Luckily, she is saved.
"Hmm, Sensei may want the Abydos students as his indentured servants as thanks for helping them." Azusa says.
"Th-That sounds like a bit of a stretch..." Yuzu says.
"Oh yes. I'm sure Koharu was thinking of something else." Hanako gives the JTF member a wry smile. "Please, indulge us in what you were thinking."
"N-Nothing! Don't worry about it!" Koharu feverantly demands.
Ayane: Now that we've taken down the Helmet Gang's nearest base of operations, they'll be forced to lay low for a while.
Shiroko: Its all thanks to you.
Sensei: You were the ones who did all the work!
Hoshino: Don't be so humble. The Sensei of Schale is on a whole 'nother level.
"This Sensei must be real good strategist once the cards are down." Miyako comments.
"Sure... but he probably can't stand up to SRT tactics." Saki declares.
"W-Wow... she's c-certainly not lacking in sc-school spirit." Yuzu whispers to the other super introvert in the room.
"Y-You get used to it." Miyu assures her.
Shiroko: Now we can focus on repaying the debt.
Sensei: Right, your debt... How much do you owe, exactly?
Hoshino: Oh, 900 million or so?
Sensei: 9-900 million?
Ayane: 962,350,000 yen, to be precise
Sensei is shown to have wtf look on his face.
Sensei: How did you end up in such a massive hole?
"Um... I'm compelled to ask that as well..." Miyako sweat drops at this information.
"I'm sure I'll explain it to Sensei in a bit." Ayane says.
Ayane looks down in slight sadness.
Ayane: ...Decades ago there was a massive sandstorm in the desert surrounding Abydos.
Flashes back to said sandstorm approaching and the encompassing Abydos.
Ayane: The power of that sandstorm was devastating. Parts of Abydos were completely covered in sand.
Nonomi: The school had to raise a lot of funds for disaster relief... but there wasn't a single bank that would approve such a large loan...
Hoshino: So the school was forced into the arms of some loan sharks called Kaiser Loans.
Hifumi winces, familiar with these types of companies.
Sensei listens intently.
Nonomi: They thought they would be able to pay the money back quickly... But...
It is shown of more sandstorms approaching.
Nonomi: The sandstorms only worsened as the years went on and now more than half of Abydos has disappeared beneath the sand.
Ayane: As the debt ballooned with each storm, the students began to despair. If the academy can't repay its debt, the loan sharks will foreclose on us. They'll shut down the school. But our chances of repaying that much money are almost zero.
It then shows multiple students leaving Abydos. Their ID badges left in the sand.
Ayane: The other students gave up... They left the school a long time ago.
Shiroko: Thats why we're the only ones left.
Azusa was left but to respect the Abydos students in their commitments. Also coming up in a derelict, she could relate to their troubles. 'I wish I can have even half their resolve when the time comes..'
All but Hoshino look apprehensive at this fact.
Hoshino: Well, we shouldn't bore you with old stories.
Sensei looks as if to be considering something.
Sensei: Thank you for sharing this with me.
The students look up to Sensei as he speaks.
Sensei: I'm starting to understand what you've been going through. This huge debt may feel overwhelming... But you're right not to give up! How about this... I'm your Sensei now, so we're in this together. Can I help you out?
Ayane: D-Do you mean- Yes! Thank you so much!
Ayane bows to which Sensei smiles.
Serika: How is that okay?
All attention is turned to her.
Serika: This "Sensei" is a complete outsider.
Miyako understood Serika's stance. It was good that she was suspicious of such an outsider, however given their dire situation, they couldn't be picky in who they allowed as their allies.
Ayane: But that's why he can help us. Maybe he can see something we haven't tried.
Serika quickly stands, slamming her hands on the table.
Serika: So what?! We've been dealing with the school's problems on our own! Why are we taking orders from some adult we don't know?
Sensei: I just want to help out.
Serika: Stop looking down on us!
"Uh... he's in no way looking down on you..." Momoi says.
Serika: I don't accept your help!
And with that, Serika storms off.
Nonomi: Serika!
Sensei can only watch as she leaves. Serika angrily power walks away from the clubroom.
Serika: They're all so stupid! "Sensei, Sensei!"
"We're stupid? You're the one who's overreacting." Shiroko calmly states.
"Am I? This Sensei could just as easily take advantage of us once we let him in!" Serika points out.
Scene change to Shiroko's apartment late at night where said girl is looking at texts on her phone to which the scene fades out. We are then shown Sensei sighing, looking exhausted. Shiroko walks in on him and the rest of the FTF minus Serika.
Shiroko: Whats wrong with Sensei?
Ayane: After school yesterday...
It then flashes back to show Serika walking down the hallway. Sensei then pops out from behind the lockers.
Sensei: Hey, Serika! Heading home?
"See! Sensei's just trying to get to know you. I'm sure everything will be alright if you just talk it out." Hifumi optimistically suggests.
She walks past him.
"Uh... umm..." Hifumi stutters.
"Playing hard to get are we?" Hanako wryly smiles.
"Don't say it like that!" Serika demands.
She is then walking down the street to which Sensei pops out again.
Sensei: Hey, Serika. Maybe we could drop by a cafe and chat?
She walks past again. She is then walking through the city when Sensei pops out at her again
Sensei: H-Hey S-Serika...
She stops.
Sensei: C-Can we talk for a second?
Serika: Go away, you stalker!
"Hehe. Sensei should have known that any girl would think that." Hoshino says.
It then takes us back to Sensei despondent with his head on the table.
Hoshino: You know that would have annoyed anyone, let alone Serika, right?
"My my, Hoshino. No need to repeat yourself." Nonomi jokes.
Shiroko puts her rifle on the umbrella rack.
Shiroko: Speaking of... Have you noticed that Serika always leaves right after school? Where does she go?
Ayane: She only responds on Momotalk. Late at night too..l
Hoshino: Thats right.
Nonomi: Say everyone... Why don't we secretly trail Serika after school today?
"Hey! What is that Sensei teaching you!" Serika demands.
"Sorry, I guess I thought it could be a neat bounding exercise!" Nonomi replies.
"At the expense of my privacy!" Serika screeches.
Everyone looks to Nonomi, Sensei finally lifting his head.
Hoshino: I'm in!
"Seriously?! Ayane, aren't you going to put a stop to this?" Serika asks.
"Like Nonomi said, its a team bonding exercise and it seems like we sorely need it." Ayane defends.
Serika finally chooses to enter.
Serika: Good morning.
She looks to see her classmates and Sensei oddly smiling at her.
Cut to a lot later in the day in downtown Abydos where Sensei, Shiroko, and Ayane stand atop a building, Shiroko looking through binoculars. Through them, she finally spots Serika on the move.
Shiroko: The target has passed point A.
"Ah... N-Not a bad vantage point..." Miyu comments
Meanwhile, Nonomi trails behind Serika, hidden by the crowed.
Nonomi: Tracking target. I have her in my sights.
"Hm, if Serika looks behind her, she'd recognize you immediately." Azusa comments.
"Oh, I could easily just talk my way out then." Nonomi assures her.
Serika passes an alley Hoshino is lurking in to which the senior exits out of and joins Nonomi. The two share a nod before Nonomi walks off.
Hoshino: Swapping Hounds.
Ayane: Understood.
She is tracking all three on her tablet.
Ayane: Please stay on her trail.
"This goes way beyond team stalking even! Point A? Hounds?! Computer tracking?!" Serika screeches. "Do you all know nothing about respecting your classmates privacy!"
"Sorry Serika." Ayane is the only one who looks apologetic.
"When tracking a target, all available means should be used. To discard them would be foolish." Azusa comments.
"Yeah! If you got it, use it!" Momoi agrees.
Hoshino and Nonomi watches as Serika helps an elderly cat person cross the street, Shiroko watches her shop, and finally Ayane and Sensei watch as she fires on some thugs in a back alley. Eventually, the five watch her as she enters a shop.
Serika tries her best to prepare for how her classmates both on and off the screen will start to tease her.
Nonomi: This is... Shiba Seki Ramen?
Shiroko: That reminds me.
(Flashback to the first episode)
Shiroko: The ramen there is delicious.
Serika jumps.
(Back to present)
Bear citizen: Thank you. Tasty as always!
He as well as a cat citizen leave as a bird citizen enters.
Bird Citizen: Master, I'm back for more!
Shiroko: Serika isn't coming out.
Hoshino: Think she signed up for an eating contest?
Serika can't help but let out, "What compels you to think that?!"
"I'm just saying... if there's reward money..." Hoshino says.
"Ah, you are just doing an any side quest that rewards currency." Arisu declares. "ANY side quest." The other members of the GDD can't help but giggle at this.
"H-Hey! You make it sound like I'd do something indecent or illegal for money!" Serika refutes.
Nonomi: I'm hungry. Want to go inside and see?
All: Sure.
Hoshino: I'm in!
Inside, the master works when the door to the ship opens.
Master Shiba: Hey, welcome!
Serika comes running.
Serika: Welcome, how many-
She notices her friends standing there as they notice her in her waitress outfit.
"Wow! So cute!" Nonomi gushes.
"Here's to that!" Hoshino agrees.
"It certainly looks good on you." Hifumi pitches in.
"I can think of better... but yes it is quite something to look at." Hanako says.
For some reason, Hanako's statement is the only one that makes Serika feel uncomfortable.
Nonomi: Wow Serika! That uniform's so cute!
"Hehe, no need to repeat yourself, Nonomi." Momoi smirks, throwing her"joke" back at her.
Serika: You guys...
Master Shiba approaches.
Master Shiba: Are you Serika's classmates from Abydos? Since you're here to support her, I'll give you a free meal on the house!
Serika looks shocked at this.
"Well, that's awfully generous." Miyako says.
"Yes, especially considering being in Abydos, there wouldn't be much traffic in customers." Ayane says.
"I'll be sure to pay him anyway when we do go!" Nonomi declares.
Serika: Well everyone... This way... please.
Serika looks embarrassed as she speaks. It cuts to Serika forcefully placing down a cup of ice water in front of Sensei, who looks like he doesn't know what to think.
Nonomi: Serika, did you take this job for the cute uniform?
Serika: Enough, just order already!
All but Sensei raise their hands and speak, the orders being either Miso or Beef ramen.
Serika: One at a time!
Hoshino: What about you, Sensei? Order what you want!
Sensei: All right...
He looks to Serika.
Sensei: Ah, well, I'll...
Serika glowers down at him
Sensei: Well...
"Customer service, at its finest." Momoi quips.
"He's the whole reason for this stalking guy that's made me uncomfortable. This is the least that he deserves." Serika affirms.
"That's kind of harsh." Miyu comments.
The Master works behind the two as Sensei try's to order.
Cut to when their ramen is delivered.
All: Thank you for the food!
Shiroko blows on some before trying it out. She smiles. Master Shiba approaches their table.
Master Shiba: So how'd you like my ramen?
Nonomi: It's so good!
"Might have to take a trip out to Abydos to try that ramen and get some inspiration for our next game." Momoi mutters.
"I'd be down for that." Midori says.
"I-I-I'll have t-to pass." Yuzu stutters.
Master Shiba: Of coarse it is! But it's great to meet Serika's friends!
Sensei: Your shop seems to be doing pretty well.
Master Shiba: Nah, business has really dried up lately.
Sensei: S-Sorry.
Master Shiba: Ah, there's no helping it. So long as one hungry soul steps through my door, I'll serve them the best ramen in the world! Thats the motto of my shop, at any rate.
Sensei looks determined before standing up.
Sensei: That's amazing!
The students observe with smiles as Sensei speaks.
Sensei: Master, I'll learn from your example and do my best to help these students!
"See! That's very encouraging!" Nonomi says to a disgruntled Serika.
Master Shiba: Oh, you're not half bad, Sensei!
While Master Shiba is talking, Serika sees off some other customers.
Serika: Please come again!
Master Shiba: I'll make an exception and give you one more bowl on the house!
"Heh, when I go, maybe I should sweet talk him to get a free bowl." Momoi says.
"Bad Momoi! Don't take advantage of a vendor who is already low on currency." Arisu admonishes.
"Yeah! This isn't Millennium where we have access to anything at will!" Serika adds.
"Kidding! I'm kidding!" Momoi tries to salvage.
She looks to her friends, boss, and Sensei.
Cut to late in the day, where the group departs the ramen shop.
Ayane: Serika! See you in the morning!
They all wave goodbye to her
Nonomi: Goodbye!
Hoshino: Good ramen, good life.
"Did I hear that right?" Saki questions.
"Mm. Good food is important for moral. Makes sense." Azusa "agrees".
With that, they leave. Serika sighs to herself.
Serika: They really gave me a shock...
Fade to when it's dark, Serika and Master Shiba are still working at the ramen shop, the master moping the floor while Serika cleans a table.
Master Shiba: Serika, go ahead and hang up your apron now.
Serika: All right!
Serika turned to leave as Master Shiba kept working.
Master Shiba: Oh... Serika?
Serika: Yes?
She turns to look at her boss.
Master Shiba: It's nice to see an adult with his students at heart. Thats how I feel.
"Nn. Wise man." Shiroko says.
"You technically haven't even met him." Serika points out.
Serika looks down in thought before turning around, taking the rag off her head and walking out.
Serika: ...I'm going to head out now.
Master Shiba can only look at Serika leave over his shoulder before getting back to work.
Cut to out outside where Serika walks down the street alone at night. She hears rummaging around in a vending machine before she notices a bottle of water tossed in her direction. She sees Shiroko in front of the vending machine.
Shiroko: Good work today. Heading home?
"Still stalking me?" Serika questions.
"No. looks like I was out for a ride." Shiroko responds.
"This late at night?" Midori questions.
"This is normal for her." Nonomi assures the other blonde.
"Late night ride, huh? Now there's an idea." Hanako smiles.
"Uh... yeah. I'm sure it'll be nice." Hifumi says, unaware of what Hanako was really thinking.
Serika stays with Shiroko as the two sip their water.
Shiroko: The master is an amazing ramen cook... And I think he's a good person. He seems dependable.
Serika: Yeah.
A moment of silence passes between the two.
Shiroko: You know, Serika...
Serika: Hmm?...
Shiroko: I think Sensei is the same way. I trust him.
Serika can only watch as Shiroko mounts her bike.
Shiroko: Night, Serika. See you tomorrow.
"Well... quite a rousing argument." Moe deadpans.
"Nn, it's true though." Shiroko assures.
"Ah, not sure if you've noticed, but Shiroko's not much of a talker." Hoshino tells the SRT specialist.
With that, she speeds off. Leaving Serika by her lonesome.
Serika: For the master and Shiroko to say the same thing... That Sensei... Can we really rely on him?
Serika shakes her head.
Serika: No, that's impossible! After everything Abydos has gone through...
"Again, all the more reason to accept some outside help." Miyako comments.
A canister of some kind lands near, to which she takes notice. The canister then starts spraying out smoke.
"What!" Nonomi exclaims.
"It's the Helmet Gang. It has to be." Hoshino grunts. "Those darn whippersnappers."
"Serika!" Ayane says with worry.
Serika breathes through her sleeve, still coughing, though.
Serika: Who is this?!
She notices outlines of two helmet gangsters as she tilts to her right and passes out on the ground.
"What! I got taken out just like that!" Serika exclaims.
"Maybe Shiroko would have heard and come back." Nonomi optimistically replies.
Meanwhile, Shiroko rode away, ignorant of what was happening to her friend.
"Nevermind." Nonomi sighs, worry still apparent.
"Sorry." Shiroko apologizes to her underclassmen.
"D-Don't apologize. It hasn't happened yet!" Serika says.
Cut to the annex the next day.
Sensei: What! Are you joking?!
Hoshino: Serika is missing?
"Wow. You all figured that out fast." Koharu exclaims.
"You five must be really close to notice immediately the next day." Hifumi adds.
Ayane: Yes, she didn't answer her door this morning. I was worried so I went inside.
We see a flashback of Ayane peaking into Serika's room.
Ayane: But her uniform and bag were gone!
Nonomi: What about her phone?
Ayane: She didn't pick up any of my calls.
Shiroko: Don't tell me that last night...
Sensei: Hold on a minute, everyone.
They all turn to Sensei as he takes out the Shittim Chest. He activates it and then, we're in the Shittem Chest were Arona resides.
"Smart A.I. like that has to be really handy." Momoi comments.
"If Arona is going to track Serika with absolute minimal to no technology around where ever she's been taking, the she might be more advanced than anything any Millennium student has cooked up." Yuzu quietly comments.
Arona: The sea is where the soul resides.
"Does she... not have anything better to do than sing songs to herself?" Saki questions.
"Its her idle animation." Arisu answers.
"Her what?" Saki questions.
She hears Sensei enter an approach her.
Arona: Ah, welcome back, Sen-
Sensei: Arona! Can you do me a favour? Its urgent. Please locate Serika!
Arona: O-Okay!
Back outside, it shows the Shittim Chest loading with a chibi Arona on screen until it is "complete".
Sensei: I know where Serika is!
Nonomi: Huh? How?
Sensei: I accessed the General Student Council's central network and tracked the location of Serika's cell phone.
Ayane: You have the authority to do that?
"My my, if he doesn't, thats quite an illegal thing to do." Hanako says.
"Doesn't matter. As long as we find Serika, it'll be worth it." Shiroko says.
"I'm not saying he shouldn't have done it, I'm just surprised that Sensei has a rule breaker side to him." Hanako wryly smiles. If she and Sensei were to eventually meet, she just knew she would have fun teasing him.
Serika meanwhile, is surprised that Sensei would risk getting into such trouble just to help find her.
Shiroko: That doesn't matter. Where is Serika?
Sensei: It looks like she's on the move.
The Shittim Chest shows a red dot moving along the Abydos desert.
Nonomi: The desert outside the city?
Ayane gasps.
Ayane: She's moving towards one of the Kata-Kata Helmet Gang's hideouts!
Hoshino: Are they trying to force our hand with a hostage?
Nonomi: We can't waste time chatting. We need to rescue Serika now!
Shiroko: Right.
Shiroko heads for her rifle on the umbrella rack.
Ayane: Hold on a moment!
Shiroko looks to Ayane.
"Knew that book would come in handy." Ayane says to herself.
"Oh? What is it? What did you have in mind?" Miyako asks.
"No spoilers. Just wait and see!" Nonomi happily answers in her underclassmen's place.
Cut to the inside of a truck, currently driving in which Serika is unconscious in the dark. This doesn't last long as Serika awakens with the sound of her halo activating.
Serika: Where am I? Is this a truck?
Serika tries to move her arms, but they're tied behind her.
Serika: Have I been kidnapped?!
Serika braces herself as the truck shutters for a bit.
Serika: Are they driving through the desert?
Indeed, we see a truck, escorted by tanks on all sides driving through the Abydos desert.
"Thats quite a bit of security for one student." Hifumi comments.
"Guess they really don't want to take their chances." Midori says.
"Wise choice. From their perspective, theres no telling what Abydos could pull out. Better not to risk it." Azusa advises.
"Nn, we'll still win anyway." Shiroko says.
Helmet Gang leader 1: Transport team, reporting in. Kata-Kata Helmet HQ, do you copy?
Helmet Gang leader 2: This is Kata-Kata Helmet HQ. Transport tram, what's taking so long? We don't have long until we're discovered. We'll be caught if you delay!
Helmet Gang leader 1: Don't worry, we'll be there in about ten minutes.
Helmet Gang leader 2: Fine, just hurry it up!
Helmet Gang leader 1: Copy that.
Serika: I have to escape!
Serika tries to wiggle out of her binds to no effect.
Serika: Please!
Serika (thoughts): What should I do... Everyone must be so worried. Are they dragging me off to bury me somewhere? Everyone! I wish you were here!
A tear is shed which falls to the ground.
"We'll be there Serika. Don't cry." Nonomi assures her.
"The me on screen can't hear you. No need to say things like that." Serika flushes, embarrassed everyone is watching her cry.
Outside, Shiroko's drone fires a rocket salvo at the lead escort tank, causing it to flip on its side. Serika feels the truck shutter.
Serika: What?!
The drone flies over a sand dune. Shortly after, a jeep with Shiroko riding on top comes over it and barrels towards the convoy. The others sit inside.
"Pretty badass entrance." Momoi compliments.
"Our band of hero's arrive to save the damsel!" Arisu delcares.
"Hey! I'm not a damsel! Don't call me one!" Serika abolishes.
Hoshino: Nice going Shiroko!
Nonomi: Head straight for Serika!
Sensei: Ayane, where did you find this truck?
Ayane: It was collecting dust in the school warehouse. I didn't think it would ever come in handy.
Ayane swerves the jeep to the right, avoiding a tank shell.
Ayane: Hold on!
She swerves to the to avoid more. Sensei tightly grips the cars safety handle.
Ayane grimaces. Maybe they shouldn't have taken Sensei along. She could only imagine the fear he had to be feeling, being in middle of a fight rather than commanding one from afar.
The gangsters take up positions with their tanks and open fire. Ayane dodges more shots before Shiroko jumps off the vehicle, sliding down a sand dune while opening fire, hitting three thugs. She gets to the leader and smacks her with the stock of her rifle before twisting around and kicking the goon to her side.
"Nice moves." Saki comments.
"Little to no wasted movements. Utilizing terrain to your advantage. Quick and decisive CQC. Mm. Very excellent." Azusa also compliments.
"Thanks. The better prepared you are for these sorts of things, the better things will go for you." Shiroko simply states.
"I think you and I will get along just fine." Saki smiles. "Same to you, Trinity girl."
Two others try to gun her down.
Helmet gangster 1: Stop her!
They are promptly peppered with machine gunfire my Nonomi, who's joined the battle with Hoshino.
Serika: What's happening? What's going on?
The door to the truck is opened letting light in and there stands Shiroko.
Shiroko: Serika's here, with tears in her eyes.
"Why do you have to say that specifically?" Serika demands.
"Cause its whats happening." Shiroko simply replies.
Serika just looks on surprised.
Nonomi: Serika!
Hoshino: Poor Serika. Cute kids shouldn't be left alone.
Serika: Stop it!
Shiroko works on untieing Serika.
Nonomi: Don't cry, Serika. We're here to wipe away your tears.
Serika: I'm not crying!
Sensei: Serika, its a relief to hear your voice.
Serika: S-Sensei? You're here too?!
Sensei: I'm a stalker, remember?
Ayane has a chuckle at this.
Most of the audience also chuckles at this.
"Stupid line..." Serika mutters to herself, but can't help her blush.
Serika: Wh-What? Don't tease me at a time like this! You're all so mean!
Sensei: All right, everyone, you know what to do next.
Shiroko hands Serika her gun.
Hoshino, Nonomi, and Ayane: Yes!
Sensei: Lets counterattack!
The two jump out of the truck and join the battle. Ayane rides off towards a ruined tower.
"Oh, are you gonna do some Speed and Serious type driving." Momoi asks.
"Sis..." Midori sighs.
"I sure hope not." Ayane says.
Helmet Gangster 2: Follow them!
The tanks move out as Nonomi guns down the infantry.
Nonomi: No more dirty tricks!
Hoshino blocks some gunfire with her shield.
Hoshino: No more mercy!
Ayane swerves out of the way of the incoming fire of the three tanks chasing her.
Ayane: You have to aim better than that!
Serika watches the chase through the scope of her rifle.
Serika: This is what you get for kidnapping me!
She opens fire, but her bullets harmlessly plink off the tank.
Shiroko: If your gun won't work...
She brings up her rocket control remote. The last rocket salvo from her drone knocks down the lead pursuing tank.
"That drone sure is handy." Hifumi comments
Not to mention beautiful at what it does." Moe says, getting heated.
Ayane: You did it, Shiroko!
Sensei: A-Ayane, watch out!
Ayane looks to her left, barely missing a shot in that direction, sending the vehicle out of control. The second shot, knocks Sensei and Ayane out of the vehicle and onto the ground.
"Is Sensei okay!" Nonomi gasps.
"Would that be enough to really hurt him?" Hifumi worridly wonders aloud.
"This is why you shouldn't take a non-combatant into the battlefield." Saki reprimands.
Helmet Driver: We got their car! Try playing hide and seek now!
"Nn. They'll pay for that." Shiroko growls.
Ayane gets up.
Ayane: Sensei, are you all right?!
Sensei is on the ground, looking a little roughed up but nevertheless fine.
Sensei: Y-You saved me.
"Oh good." Ayane breaths out in relief. While she has medical knowledge, she wasn't sure it was enough if Sensei were to get seriously hurt.
Nonomi: Let me handle this!
Nonomi whirls around and lets her mini-gun rip at the tanks, to no effect. This, however, kicks up dust, allowing Hoshino to approach the tanks undetected. Eventually, she jumps from the dust and lands on the tank, aiming her shotgun at the turret.
Hoshino: Take this!
She opens point blank fire which does little more than dent the tank. She leaps away when the turret moves towards her. Leaping back again to avoid a shot. She hops back to the rest of the FTF.
"Nice moves. You could make it as an SRT student." Saki compliments the girl.
"Ah, that was just adrenaline and such." Hoshino bullshits. "This old gal ain't as mobile as she used to be. I'd just slow you down." She yawns. "Besides, wouldn't want that cutting into my sleeping time."
Helmet leader 1: Your bullets are nothing to our tanks!
Serika: They're tougher than I expected.
Sensei: Wait everyone-I have a plan!
Helmet leader 1: Stop cowering! Come out here!
The tanks fire on the 4 as Sensei explains his plan over the comms.
Sensei: You'll need to move together. What do you think?
"Uh... do we getvto hear the plan?" Miyu wonders aloud.
"Ah, this is just a thing in shows. The plan isn't explained, so we'll just see it unfold." Hifumi explains.
Shiroko: Yes, I like it!
Nonomi: It's worth a shot!
Ayane: I'll watch your back!
Hoshino: We're counting on you, Serika.
Serika looks determined.
Serika: Yes, I won't let you down!
Ayane: We're ready now. Move to your positions.
They all break off, Shiroko on her own, Hoshino with Nonomi, and Serika no where to be found.
Helmet leader 1: You can't escape us!
The tanks also split off and give chase.
"Going in from the rear are we?" Hanako says upon noticing Serika's absence.
"Probably not. I don't have any means to get through the tanks armour." Serika answers
Sensei: Now, Ayane!
Ayane: Okay!
Her drone flies off carrying a red box. Meanwhile, the two groups are still being chased and blasted by the tanks.
Helmet leader 1: I told you it was useless! Just give up and surrender already!
"Useless? These guys have terrible aim if you're running in a stright line on flat land." Saki says.
"And pretty low yield tank shells if these meager explosions are anything to go by." Moe notes in utter disappointment.
Serika meanwhile, makes a run for it, unbeknownst to the tanks. Running toward the ruined tower. Soon, Shiroko regroups with her fellow second year and upperclassmen. The two tanks surround them.
Helmet leader 1: Done playing cat and mouse? Get your hands in the air!
As the group is pinned down, Serika can see this all go down through her scope as she stood on one of the upper levels of the ruined building.
"Wow, that was fast." Koharu says.
"Mm. Perhaps I could even take a lesson from you with your speed. Climbing all thise stairs that high in such a shirt amount if time." Azusa says.
"Its really nothing." Serika assures them.
Sensei: 10, 9, 8,
Serika focuses.
Sensei: 7, 6, 5,
Ayane looks on determined.
Sensei: 4, 3, 2,
Hoshino, Nonomi, and Shiroko all look determined. Ayane's drone soars, dropping its package.
Sensei: 1! Now Serika!
Serika narrows her eyes as she opens fire. The package falls in between the tanks and into Serika's gunfire, ignite whatever explosives are inside.
"Hmm, pretty decent shot. Especially considering your weapon shouldn't be as accurate and effective at that range.
Helmet leader 1: N-No way!
The package detonates, blowing up the two tanks and encompassing the closer 3 in smoke.
"Oh yeah. Do it again!" Moe demands.
"Victory!" Arisu exclaims.
When the dust clears, the Gang leader opens the exit hatch from her wrecked tank, covered in soot.
Helmet leader 1: Run away!
Serika watches from her vantage point as the helmets make their humiliating get away.
Helmet Gangster 3: Just you wait!
Helmet Gangster 4: You'll regret this!
She hoists her weapon on her shoulder with a confident smile.
Serika: Wish you never kidnapped me now, don't you?
Sensei looks to the tower as the rest of the FTF approach him. He turns back to the others.
"I would say that that would teach the Helmet gang not to mess with us, but they never learn." Ayane says.
"Thats on them. It'll work just fine for us if we fight." Shiroko states.
Hoshino: We won by the skin of our teeth.
Sensei: Great job everyone.
Nonomi: You too, Sensei!
Hoshino: Our Sensei's truly wise beyond his years.
"Ah, perhaps it'll be nice to have another old timer on board." Hoshino says.
"You're 17!" Serika exclaims. "And Sensei doesn't look any older than mid 20s!"
Sensei: N-No way!
Ayane: We really taught the Helmet Gang a lesson this time.
"You were saying, Ayane?" Hanako questions.
"Probably just the heat of the moment. They'll be back." Ayane amends.
Shiroko: Yes, definitely.
Shiroko perks up as Serika approaches.
Sensei: Thank you, Serika.
Serika recoils in shock before adopting a dismissive look.
Serika: Don't thank me! I would have escaped on my own without you! And i could have handled the Helmet Gang by myself!
Everyone doesn't buy it.
Neither does the audience.
"Sure you would..." Momoi replies.
"It didn't look like you could break your bondage earlier." Hanako informs.
"I can bullshit." Saki states.
"Sh-Shut up! All of you!" Serika demands.
Serika: But, still... Y-You rescued me, so... Thank you, Sensei!
Sensei merely smiles.
Hoshino: Ah, little Serika's shy.
Serika: N-No I'm not!
Hoshino: You sure?
Serika: I said no!
Hoshino: Youngins are never honest with themselves. But thats why you're so cute.
Serika: Enough!
"All that I've said is true though." Hoshino assures.
"No! All you've said is nonsense!" Serika tries to amend.
"Ah. Classic tsundere." Arisu says.
"WHAT! I am not a tsundere!" Serika screeches.
"Anyway, onto the next level?" Arisu seems to conveniently not hear Serika.
"Wait, theres more." Ayane swys.
Cut to black. Then cut to the helmet gangs base at night, multiple gunshots are heard. A helmet gangster collapses to the floor. The camera pans up to reveal a group of four standing among many bodies.
"Huh? That can't be us. We wouldn't attack them without cause." Nonomi says.
"Must be another faction." Miyako says. "Perhaps another enemy they've made."
"Hmm... will this other people be allies or enemies to us?" Hoshino wonders.
Helmet Leader 2: Wh-Who are you people?
Aru: We are Problem Solver 68! And we'll do the crime... if you've got the dime.
The camera better shows Problem Solver 68. Two girls up to the left, one with a two tone white and black hair in a pony tail while the other with dark purple hair cradles her shotgun. The girl sitting on a crate to the left has long white hair tied off at the side. The one in the middle faces away from the camera, has a large coat that conceals much of her.
The episode ends.
"Ah. New villains!" Arisu says.
"Kinda judgey saying these girls are villains right off the bat." Midori comments.
"But hey sure look it. Ain't it obvious, Mido." Momoi says.
"Hmm... this group appears to be from Gehenna." Hifumi notes.
"Gehenna? Why would they be out in Abydos?" Koharu questions. Unlike most of her seniors, Koharu didn't by the whole "Gehenna is evil" schtick that many of them believed. Even so, she got a bad feeling from this group.
"Mm. They were hired to do something by the sounds of it." Shiroko states.
"Hired by who?" Momoi wonders.
"Perhaps if we continue, we could find out." Hanako suggests. "No one ever got all the answers from just a tease. We've gotta go deeper to find them."
...
"She's got such a weird way of speaking." Moe whispers.
AN: Hmm... finished this rough a month after the first chapter. Thats pretty consistent to my last react fic. Let me know how this chapter is. I've found it difficult with all these characters. Like. I'll notice after a bit that someones been silent for awhile, while some other characters have a lot more to comment on. I dunno. Its just harder to think what some characters would say about this, and thats IF they'd comment at all. That aside, this episode is my LEAST favourite episode of the bunch. Yup. I think its kinda shit. But its all the better that i get it out of the way early. Hope this chapter is as satisfactory as the last one and see you next month... assuming next months chapters is done by then.