round 3

After Mika Tsukizuka executed herself in the halls of Hope's Peak Academy, the world was finally able to start rebuilding itself after the tragedy with the help of a reunited Future foundation and the apocalypse survivors. thirty years later, society has almost entirely returned to it's former self, and people continue to live their lives as they had done before the BIGGEST, MOST AWFUL, MOST TRAGIC EVENT almost ended the world. However, the traumatic memories of the mutual killings and slaughter have not been forgotten by those who lived through them. A select few have been invited to promote a new initiative, born out of a desire to once more create beacons of hope that can display humanity's potential. The decision is controversial, but motions to move forward with the so-called "Hope's Peak University" are still underway. After all, now that the SUPER HIGH SCHOOL LEVEL DESPAIR is gone, THE BIGGEST, MOST AWFUL, MOST TRAGIC EVENT IN HUMAN HISTORY will never happen again. Don't you want to be talented?

[dr-awo]

fuck tube indulgence 

[dr-awo]

And the Universe Said You are Not Alone

[ ♪♪♪ ]

The silence is broken willingly by some of you, and further by the sound of the boat’s engine roaring to life. It’s a low hum, quieted down by the walls and windows around you to a soft and reassuring purr. If nothing else has done the trick just yet, it’s this sound that makes the realization stick for good:

You’re leaving soon. Parts of you will remain on this island forever, lost in code and in the dark corners of places that no longer exist — but you’re leaving.

The implications of this are different for every single one of you. For some, it’s a step into true freedom. For others, an inevitable fall into a different sort of captivity. Even of those two, none of you will find your footing on the exact same path. There is something to be said for having a path to walk at all, isn’t there?

Masanaru Oda — a life worn by tragedy, lost to another.

Nao Fujita — a hasty hand led astray, desperate to escape. 

Naruki Maruyama — an anxious presence, who fed into this tragedy.

Tomoe Ito — a kind heart, broken by itself in the end.

Shinji Tsukino — a keeper of tradition, forced to repeat history. 

Satoshi Hayase — a sharp mind, finally outwitted by another.

Jirou Ishida — an enduring soul, made a target by loss.

Shou Shikabane — a proud fool, done in by her own hubris. 

Souta Shinobu — a growing spirit, whose tale ended as a victim to circumstance.

Megumi Imaizumi — a friend to most, undone by her need for answers.

Their paths had come to an untimely end, crumbling out from underneath their feet with no regard for what kind of person would be lost in the fall. Enemy and friend alike, they were lost; you lost them. 

And somehow, the world keeps spinning.

The back and forth of voices can be heard outside, the words muffled and hard to pick out. Not that you need to hear them, of course. The intent is already known, and that intent is accomplished in the next moment as you jerk with the boat’s first movement.

You’re leaving.

The still scenery of the island on one side and the open ocean on the other slowly shifts, the ratio of water to land growing further and further apart. It takes time for the island to disappear. The boat moves fast, but it takes time. Leaving this behind will take so, so much time. It might take more than you expect, but —

Time is something you have plenty of now. Time delivers to you a vast and open blue, shades and hues of cloud and water meeting on the endless, encircling horizon. Swathed in this emptiness, there might be threat of losing yourself to unreality again if left alone. 

You are not alone. Your rescuers — not your heroes. There’s a mutual agreement of that — are in and out, intent on offering company and comfort when they can. There is conversation with them and with each other, inescapable on a journey like this. Some of you find it welcome, even. Unreality does not find you. Not right now.

Right now, it is the heavy truth of life that creeps in from every side and every corner. You are alive, and you will live. What that means, you are yet to find out. The world, the future, and your place in it are all uncertain, after all.

... Haven’t they always been?

Moreso now, perhaps. The world was unprepared to save you in ways that you could never have expected. There is no denying that you are a generation left to suffer under the old world’s struggle to become a new world. But what does it matter, really? Old, new…

[ ♪♪♪ ]

You live in another world. You live in your own world, created by your own choices. All that’s left now is to carry on for those who can’t, for those you have kept, and most importantly, for yourself.

It is your story, and against all odds —

You’re going to live it.

[dr-awo]

Nothing but blue | Suguri | Epilogue

As sour as Suguri feels about this whole thing, even she can't deny that the warm sunlight and the smell of fresh air as they all leave the facility are a refreshing reprieve from her thoughts.

She sits away from the rest of the group on the boat, giving one final scathing glance back at the island before staring out at the water and preparing to do so for the entirety of the trip. It's not like she has any intention of speaking to anyone on board. They're not her friends. Most of them never were, and the rest... well, who would choose to be friends with someone like her, knowing what she's done?

Why did they have to find out? Did she underestimate the man she had come here to betray? She might have had everybody fooled, if it weren't for Yuichi spilling the beans at the last moment. And now his death, sweet as it was, is the only act of vengeance she will ever have against him for ruining her brilliant scheme.

Brilliant scheme, she likes to think. Maybe she'd just gotten careless. Or too blinded by her own ego, or something. It hardly matters now. She's not going to make the same mistakes again. Not that she has a plan for what comes after this... even if she did escape a full jail sentence, what happens after that? She no longer has the benefit of being respected in the eyes of the general public for her gentle nature, or her good heart, or her determination to help the people around her, because none of those things ever belonged to her. Everyone knows the real Suguri Takashima now. A despicable human being, underhanded, egotistical, willing to betray anyone and everyone if it meant obtaining a glory worthy of her talents and intellect.

Maybe this is no longer a sustainable business model. But she's not going to admit that. Not yet.

For now, she's just going to continue looking out toward the vast ocean. The horizon, for the first time in her life, feels completely empty.

[dr-awo]

睦 || atsushi || epilogue

He succeeded... but did he really?

Atsushi, who had been quietly sobbing to himself the entire way to the boat, was left with weary eyes and a pounding head as he sat among the fellow survivors. Everything was still so hard to wrap his head around. The start, the middle, the penultimate conclusion and finally, the end: and in the end, Atsushi lived. He thought he would be glad, as he felt this as soon as he'd left the pod, but now... he felt just a little bit bothered. He's alive, yes, but... what did that mean for him?

[ ♪♪♪ ]

Did this mean he was successful after all? Was it just out of pure chance? Would Aiko be proud of him? Was Atsushi proud of himself? He was a little frustrated at the answers... or, well, lack of an answer to his all these questions, which all melted down to one final thought.

Why him?

His chances of dying were equal to everyone else's-- no, his were higher if anything, so why? What made him different from everyone else that he had to get out alive? Why couldn't one of the fallen have taken his place instead; surely, one or the other would contribute more to the world than he ever could. Was it okay to keep on living?

Why, why, why, why, why-- the one word that cycled throughout his brain didn't stop. Ah, was this survivor's guilt...?

Why can't he just be grateful to live again-- ah, there it was again. Maybe it was better to stop thinking about it, but it's something definitely easier said than done.

He takes a deep breath of air, and it feels so much more foreign than ever before; same could be said about the sun. Squeezing Bellamy's hand, there wasn't much Atsushi could say to everyone else and himself, so keeping himself to his mind, he smiles, just a little.

"You know, I..." His grip weakens for a moment, before entwining Bellamy's fingers with his. "...I'm glad I'm just as important to you as you are to me. I think... I really am glad you fell in love with me.

Even if you've only met me now... in the end, you're still different than how you started, right?

To change for the better..."

He knew that's all that Bellamy wanted, and he understood. Of course, he speaks in a low enough volume so only Bellamy and whoever else was near him could hear. Planting a kiss on the prince's forehead, he pushes aside the fear of the future to enjoy their possible last moments together.

Warmth engulfs him, and for a brief second, he felt a sense of pride before it fading away. Accompanied with the feeling of being watched... but, for some reason, it feels more sincere this time. The presence almost feels familiar, which makes Atsushi accept it all the more.

It didn't matter if he couldn't live successful, or perfect, or an angel.

Maybe it was finally time to just... Live.

A loss for words, Atsushi wanted to contribute more to the discussion, to no avail. Maybe, just maybe, his presence will be enough. So, he smiled.

Let us not repeat our mistakes this time. Let us live for the lost ones, as they lived for us. Let their songs engrave themselves into your soul like how this experience will forever be engraved into us.

For the class of 204X.

~大城, 睦

...Well,

It's good you've scripted it out, and I get you believe they deserve a tribute, but,

let's leave song writing to when we could finally move properly again, shall we?

For now, let's just to co-exist in harmony.

[dr-awo]

Goodbye and Good Night || Adam || Epilogue

There isn't much to say.

For the first time in too, too many months, Adam is content to stay quiet. Head resting against Kensuke's shoulder, his eyelids flutter as he tries to stave off the urge to doze. 

After all, he's already been asleep for so long, hasn't he? Wasting away in a tube, caught in a shared lucid dream. His arms and legs, heavier than they've ever been, bear the proof of that. 

No, he ought to be awake, laughing and carrying on with the others, exchanging phone numbers, contact information, everything before they part ways for good. Enjoying these last moments before...

Before...

...Before...

...No. There's no need to rush anymore, is there? Because when he wakes up, Kensuke will be there. As will Hana, Kita, Ken, Atsushi, Koten, holy shit there's a lot of people to remember off-hand. Uhhhh Mugen. Fuck. Fuck, he's tired.

But they'll be there all the same. Because they finally have time.

---

To the tune of the gulls' cries overhead and the background chatter of his friends, his ass goes numb in his seat. Good night, Another World Order.

[dr-awo]

it’s still you 🛠 kensuke 🛠 @ epilogue

As they’re escorted out, Kensuke can’t help but catch a glimpse of the pods containing the deceased. People he knew, people he hardly knew—the face of his father. What makes him pause, though, is the sight of Masanaru Oda, removed from his pod, exposed to the elements, as though he’s asleep. Before, Kensuke would’ve found it disturbing. But now? After all the carnage he’s seen? He’s relieved that, despite everything, the man’s real world body seems at peace. Not dignified. But better than seeing him lying on the floor in a pool of his own blood.

Thank you, he thinks. I’m sorry I couldn’t do more in time to save you. Thank you for everything, Professor.

They part ways.

[ ♪♪♪ ]

Despite his fatigue, when those doors open, Kensuke feels like he’s stepping into a gentle embrace. The firm weight of his own body, the vibrant colors all around him, and the sun, beaming on him after ages locked away in a sterile pod…

The world is so, so warm.

He breathes the fresh air in, and he lags behind the others for a moment, but he catches up in time. The boat’s interior is a welcome comfort. Of course, he sits by Adam, because there’s no other option that he’d rather have. But as he looks around, really sees everyone he’s met in that place for the first time…

He nods at Kita, her proposal bringing a smile to his face. There are people he holds closer to his heart than others. But they’re all inextricably linked by the hell they’ve endured, and it’s the first time Kensuke can say that he’s had so many people he can easily call friends. He thinks he’d like to to continue hanging out with them. Vegas could be fun. He’s no gambler, but Vegas could be fun.

At Bellamy’s words, Kensuke can’t think of an immediate response. Sure, Bellamy’s done horrible things. But so has Ken, and Kensuke firmly believes that it’s possible for Ken to change for the better. Suguri, too, if she’s willing. It always takes someone willing. Hiroha was willing, after all. So Bellamy gets another smile and nod from Kensuke, although he’s finding himself too exhausted to muster up anything more eloquent than a simple:

“I believe in you, Bellamy-kun.”

Kensuke exhales, his hand easily finding Adam’s, fingers lacing together like it’s the most natural thing in the world. This soft warmth is different from what he found in the simulation. He likes it much better like this.

“Everyone… let’s exchange contact information. I would like to stay in touch… I am glad to have met you.”

It’s getting harder to keep his eyes open, especially now that it’s sinking in that they’re no longer in danger. He yawns, sinking further into the seat’s cushioning, and murmurs something near incomprehensible to Adam except for the distinct phrase of I love you.

He’d like to stay awake and savor this moment. For now, though, resting his eyes should be alright.

Just for a bit.

(He’ll be home soon enough.)

[dr-awo]

the fleeting sense of love within these godforsaken halls // koten // final transmission

What does the sun feel like? Do they remember? 

Koten doesn’t have hands to study here in the interim, no tangible sensations to ground them as the end nears. Again it creeps in, isolation, the maw they’ve been running from since they filled out the fateful application. Their stomach doesn’t exist to churn, here the feeling is them— the hot prickle of anxiety in everything that makes Koten up.

Running away was supposed to change everything, but not like this. Their separation from their desperate wish for normality was a slap in the face of how escaping the game was supposed to go— alienated by a new, impossible to understand body… Even if it did bring them back from the dead, would their friends be understanding? Would they even want to continue to speak when everyone inevitably went their separate ways, leaving Koten behind when—

“…”

[ ♪ ♪ ♪ ]

Its not a normal sound that echoes through the system. A core rocking static completely halts the panic overtaking the system. It’s something outside, far away, the brittle crackle of a microphone picking up nearby sound. 

“—◎Δ§##…..we made it…”

That voice… Instantly Koten’s spiral is derailed, the familiar feeling of hope flooding their perception. That had to be Hiroha, right? Out there somewhere, escaping? The prison of the device opens up into the relief, Koten’s consciousness breathing out. They were out there, their friends, just out of reach. 

They must be ok. We made it, that’s good, that’s… that’s—

The hashy static interrupts them again, the brush of the microphone coming alive. 

“◇///○◯…dddespite everything…..” That was Kita, Koten knew that tone anywhere, even marred by the distance. They strain to listen, the silence of their absent heart for once appreciated. “/////+— it was you guys…**—”

The hot ache of tears never to come floods Koten like a crashing wave. It was them, all of them. This— not the game, but the future —was thanks to them, their friends. Their friends. 

The raging torrent of bittersweet pain nearly drowns out the next crackle of the outside world, but Koten focuses everything they have on listening. 

“kzzt—“ 

Even as code, Koten feels their thoughts slow with a held breath. The complicated feelings of betrayal and anguish that color their consciousness can only mean one thing.

…Bellamy?

“— become a person you can be proud of.”

Any other transmissions are white noise to the memory of Bellamy’s friendly smile on the beach, Koten’s secret laid bare before the two of them and the setting sun. The memory of Bellamy’s hand outstretched, Koten’s reaching back, before being rended apart by the machine Bellamy helped design.

’A person they could be proud of.’ Could they call themself that now? A person brave enough to stare death in the face and defy it? A person who cared so deeply about their friends they forced the hand of god? 

In the device, safe and alone and ready, Koten feels the satisfaction of a smile all throughout them. 

Yeah. They could. And even as a robot, that would never change. They would still be Koten Saiban in the end. Koten Saiban— not the infamous hacker, not the terrified kid on their own for the first time, still carrying the weight of their parents expectations on their shoulders. They were Koten Saiban, beloved friend. Hero.

This is their real new beginning, and everything’s gonna be just fine.

[dr-awo]

Starshine || Ken || Epilogue

Escape... finally... the end was so near, it was still hard to believe.

Walking along with everyone, it felt like the longest walk of his life. His legs felt like they were on fire, using muscles that hadn't been used in so long... he wanted to stop, he wanted to rest, but they were so close.

All he could do was keep his eyes ahead, looking forward. And try not to stumble...

Stepping outside for the first time in so long, he felt the warmth of sunlight, the cool breeze on his skin, but above all... he smelled salt. He was hit with a wave of nostalgia, and suddenly it felt like he was moving too fast. From the island to the boat, the walk was too short... he wanted to stop, see the water, feel it, walk through the sand. The beach... he really did like the beach, even if it wasn't real back then... How did he come to treasure something as false as a virtual beach... but it was the first place he was himself. Letting go of his facade, finally letting someone in, and being himself... for once in a long time. He'd never forget this place for that... and leaving almost felt bittersweet...

But before he knew it, he'd carried himself onto the boat, moving along with everyone else. Which.. it wasn't so bad. They could finally sit, and even sitting now, Ken's muscles ached. He was sorry, leggies... he was so cruel to them. He could barely even listen to Keiji walking, but it was the hand that began holding his that brought him back.

His hand... it always felt warm, and soft, and strong... but it felt different to him now. It almost felt warmer, but perhaps it was just that they were closer... real contact, that's always what was missing. And even now the same electricity he felt moving up his arms then were happening now. He was here... They were here... 

This is... real.

This is.. what real feels like.

He really couldn't pay attention to a single word. He tried, but his mind couldn't help wander. Real...

What did real... feel like before?

Ken can't remember... ever feeling this way about walking outside, about feeling someone's skin, about existing. He hated so much about the world, so feeling so excited to be back in it... he didn't feel like he was him. ....But he hadn't felt like he was himself either for a long time. Ken Sugita had died long ago... that's what he'd say. And he's died, and died, and died so many times...

Isn't it time to live a little? Is it his turn now...? Living for someone else... 

He turns to look at Mugen, just in time for him to lean against him. He felt so much heavier, despite being lighter now. Ken regretted never working out before this, he didn't have a head start at all.

He laughed... in spite of it all.

"Yeah... I was expecting something a little nicer though. Not even a cruise ship? Heh... and these people are supposed to be famous or something."

He chuckled softly. But... there would be more time to joking later. There were more important things to talk about, and god.. Ken loved hearing his voice. His real voice... it sounds the same, but feels so different. It's impossible to explain.

"It's never been easy. I'm just glad I won't have to do anything alone now... I don't think I could if it weren't for you..."

He smiled.. it was a small smile, but sincere.

"There's prettier things than the ocean that I'm looking at."

It didn't matter where they were, or what would happen. Just knowing that Mugen was safe, that he was here and alive and well... he couldn't ask for anything else.

His hands on his cheek... he truly loved when he did that. He was glad that wouldn't change...

Mugen began to drift off, but Ken felt oddly awake. The longer this went on, the more it really, truly sank in for him. And well... how could he help being excited. They're alive, and they can make their own future... There's some good in the world, and Ken can always remember that. There's other feelings than hurting all the time... there's other feelings than anger, and loneliness... 

He wrapped an arm around Mugen, keeping him close, and letting him rest. He took a moment to look around the room at everyone else. It wasn't.. just Mugen. Atsushi.. Hiroha... Kensuke... Kita.... everyone. Looking at them, at everyone who made it, Ken felt... like he sat in the middle of something. Instead of standing on the outside looking in. He knew what they thought of him... he couldn't change that. Nothing could change what he'd done... But knowing he had a place somewhere in people's hearts, that a piece of him was somewhere outside of himself, that.... it.... it felt so strange. He'd never felt glad to have something taken from him... maybe because he'd let them have it.

Another smile made it's way to his face. And yeah.. he knew by now Mugen was already asleep. But... still... he couldn't help mumble a little something. Maybe he'd hear, maybe he wouldn't... but this wasn't for anyone else right now.

"Black holes can become stars..."

...He felt a bit cheesy for saying that, and leaned to give Mugen a small kiss on his forehead. 

"I love you, too... Always will."

He'll let Mugen rest, but there's no way he can sleep now. For now... he'll just watch the sea. Eyes wide, mind racing, he'll enjoy the first moments of real life... 

...He'll wake Mugen when the sun starts to set.

[dr-awo]

a light smile doesn't mean it's over || bellamy || epilogue

Despite his tears and the overwhelming noise occupying his brain at the moment, Bellamy at least has the capability to realize when it's time to go. And, further, the capability to glance back over the pods containing the corpses of those he'd caused the deaths of in the name of a better future.

Would it do for him to stay?

Quite a sympathetic-- and stupid idea, and yet it crosses his mind for a moment nonetheless. He'd done this, after all. While being manipulated, but he had. And he didn't know what he was supposed to do now. Go to prison, presumably. Or worse, if the Future Foundation-- or this offshoot of it, rather, would decide to send him home. He knew enough about how organizations like this worked to know that they'd probably want him out of their hair. He'd funded a killing game in part because of that, even.

But ultimately, as he would always say, Bellamy was a selfish person. He feels the aching pain of regret before he turns to continue-- and, terribly, it's both for the lives lost and for his failed goal. It wasn't as if words of apology from him would matter, anyway. So he simply follows the group out.

♫♫♫ 

Bellamy has to hold his hand up to block the unfamiliar sunlight, and that's enough for him to realize-- stupidly, staring at his own hand like he's never seen it before-- that he isn't locked away yet.

His hands are free. He can walk freely. He hadn't been killed in a game designed to end in his death. For now, just for a moment, there was a tiny future available to him.

He freezes, staring up at the sun with wide eyes. It wasn't as if anyone would bother to wait up for him if he wanted to spend... just a moment admiring it. How bright, he thinks. It's as if he's trying to imprint the sight into his vision-- when he looks down and away, the bright, burning spot is still there.

Bellamy had never much been the sentimental type. Rather than think over how he felt, he preferred to act past it. But somehow, after weeks (months?) of being absorbed in hatred with only brief flashes of what life could be, this suddenly overwhelming warmth from something as stupid as the sun-- it'd always been here. How stupidly sentimental. You never thought of things this way before. 

...In any case, he follows the group onto the boat. He listens vaguely to what Keiji says, not applying any of it to him, as he'll be locked away. He thinks about the sun.

A bright future. That was the thing he wanted most. But he'd made up his own imagined bright for it. With such an overwhelming emotional break as he'd had emerging from the pod, he felt dazed with the realization that he simply didn't know what a happy future would look like for himself.

There was the matter of if he even deserved one, of course.

He stares blankly at the floor of the boat, the words of those around him white noise. Without the goal of the future he'd imagined-- Bellamy had nothing. No idea what it would be like to live happily. He hadn't for years, but--

Was that true?

The truth was, there had been moments in the game where he'd thought if I had something like this before, maybe I wouldn't have turned out this way. A possibility he'd thought he'd locked himself out of. But...

There was a future ahead of him. This single flash of something he wished he could be-- it was enough for him to cling onto. Even if it was so minor as to be only one person that he'd felt any genuine hope with, maybe one person was enough for someone who'd floundered for years without anyone to connect to.

Before Bellamy can think better of it, he reaches out, taking Atsushi's hand. To do so in the real world... he thinks of the warmth of the sun, and now the warmth of this, and perhaps these two small things are enough.

"You know... I suppose it was rather silly of me, but--" His voice is rather hushed as he finally speaks up, intended mostly for one person. "I was thinking you would not care to believe that I meant things genuinely, so I wrote this letter. Ah, it is gone now, of course, but... mm... this thing I thought was, if I had had someone like you all along, maybe I would have become a different person."

He hums, glancing out the window. 

"I suppose it is just a silly sentiment, but I wished you to know before there is no more chance. ...I am more glad that you could find a life you are happy with, at least. A bright future. All of you--"

Finally, briefly, Bellamy addresses the group with a clear gaze.

"I hope that you will be able to create a future full of happiness. I am not so much in a place to request, but this is all I would ask."

That was all he'd ever wanted, after all. His piece said, he drops his gaze again, an uncertain expression on his face. He wasn't sure what he was allowed and not allowed to say any more.

Is that what a leader would say, do you think? ...Did you know all along, that I was not cut out to be one? Or rather, that I did not want...

His free hand comes up one more time, pressing to his cheek and finding it wet. He looks up, out the window at the sun and then at Atsushi.

"Even if... I missed my chance in the past, like I said, I..."

"In the future... I will become a person you can be proud of. I promise that, sincerely."

Whether he was speaking to the person he cared for the most there, or a person he cared for who was no longer there, or both, or neither--

The hope of that single bright future was enough for Bellamy.

[dr-awo]

on second thought | kita | epilogue

Breathing oxygen in virtual reality… Breathing oxygen in real life… Is there much of a difference between the two? Either way, Kita was still breathing — sniffling, yawning, hiccuping, and everything else in between. As long as she continued to live, then it was all the same to her. But when she takes in the fresh air through her nose, her lungs burn like someone who has been touch starved for years finally received a hug from someone special.

A small smile graces her lips in return.

She leans forward in her seat and rests her elbows on her thighs with a bit of a hum. There’s a lot of things she could say at the moment, but none of it seems important at the moment. Wringing her hands together, she tilts her head up to the sun and closes her eyes. None of it seems important at the moment except for one thing, that is.

“... Mm… Eh… I guess most of you aren’t as bad as I made you out to be during the trial.” She mumbles her half-hearted admittance of defeat under her breath with a hint of playfulness in her tone. Her vicious namecalling is nothing to try and shrug off, but all in all, there is more weighted things on the horizon than being called a freak. “So, I’m sorry. ‘Nd it’ll be easier to just accept my apology rather than argue with me on the matter, so just do that, alright? Alright.” She tilts her head off to the side, lowering it back down once again, before opening her eyes and looking at those who currently surround it. They might not be as hopeless as she once thought, but nothing ever was. The world was still (relatively) the same. Someone what there for them on the outside. There was something to look forward to at the end of the day, even though it has always been hard to see.

Shuffling in her seat, she brings her left arm to rest on her lap and she leans back in her seat, only for her look of content to be wiped away with a grimace. Her breath hitches as she looks to see where the pain is coming from, pulling up her sleeve to see what is going on underneath. … Which is nothing. No bite marks or scrapes from the attack she once had to face. Save for the lingering pain, it’s like it never even happened.

Wack.

Her snake like eyes blink in curiosity at the lack of evidence, but she pulls her sleeve back down and finally rests.

“On God though, I mean it. I’m thinking that… Despite everything… If I had to have been stuck in a killing game with any group of misfits, I’m glad it was you guys. But -- erm, after therapy and rehabilitation, and everything… Let’s try ‘nd group up to do something that doesn’t involve death.” She lifts the arm with no lingering ghost pains and scratches the side of her cheek. “Hana and I always said we were gonna be going to Las Vegas for a bit of partying and gambling, so I don’t think I’d mind extending that offer to any of you guys. Could be kinda fun, dontcha think? I gotta couple things to take care of after everything is said and done, of course, but the offer is always gonna be the table.”

Not even going to bother asking Hana what she thinks on the matter, Kita?

Classic.

[dr-awo]

It Weighs As It Should || Ua || Epilogue

And here they are.

They never did notice just how far from reality the virtual world had become. The cold floor beneath their hands, the beating warmth of the sun, the lapping of the waves at the shore... They absorbed these forgotten signs of life as they trekked from the pods to the boat. Each sensation had with it the jarring reminder that the end their time in the game had come. Lackluster though they felt about it, there was yet an odd, underlying feeling of anticipation they could not deny that accompanied a sense of moving on. 

A chapter in their life has ended, and now they stand at the edge of another.

As they sat with the others on board, after Keiji had departed, in their silence Ua looked back on the facility they had stumbled out of. To think that before everything, they had never known just how badly they coveted the things they desire: to be recognized, to prove something, to show a certain someone how high they could rise, to have a purpose. They would have been content dying there if it meant being something so grand. World destruction or world salvation, the result didn't matter. It was such a golden opportunity...

And now here they are in the stillness of the end with no drive left to speak of. At what point had they become so exhausted? It was just yesterday they had been battling to keep Megumi alive, and not once since then had time slowed down...

Now they finally have a chance to catch their breath.

Ua turned their back on the facility, and now they look at those who remained, however brief. The journey was fun at least, the thrill invigorating, but now it’s time to look at what’s left and what there is yet to do. What’s left— There isn’t much left, is there? Bellamy, Suguri, and Ken, it is to prison with them unless they can help it. Mugen they’ve ascertained already will be fucking off where ever. Atsushi, Hiroha, and Kensuke are burnt bridges. Adam is never an option. Kita and Hana, as they’ve gathered, have places to return. Koten... Well, they’ll be living life with a new body soon. Good for them. 

It is a circumstance that has long since been accepted. Perhaps there is not a friend meant to keep, and no place they are dying to return, but their choices are never so limited and opportunities never just end. There is yet a future to live, and now they must decide how to live it. 

Later. Later, they will decide how to live. Now is a time to rest their head in their hand and close their eyes, ignore the world, and enjoy the respite of this brief trip. 

[dr-awo]

I'm Going Home | Hana | Epilogue

Having to move after spending so long stuck in a pod is definitely difficult, but the adrenaline is enough of a boost to keep her steady on her feet. Ten minutes is a reasonable time to get out of there, but it’s going to be gone before any of them even realize.  Still, Hana takes a moment to say a silent goodbye to the people they’ll have to leave behind for now. Hopefully they can come back? Get a burial for them? She can’t imagine the bodies just having to lie there forever, and she knows their rescuers are good people.

When she’s stronger…Hana’s not exactly secret agent material, and maybe they won't need her or even want her, but she knows that they all deserve some peace, and she wants to be a part of that. For now all she can do to be useful is stay behind the others, in case anyone starts to slow down, or stumble. It’s not much, and she’s even weaker than normal, but it helps her feel like she can do something for her friends.

♫♫♫

Hana has to shut her eyes as soon as they make it outside, one hand lifting to cover her face. It’s ridiculous, but as she stands there adjusting, she lingers for a moment longer than necessary. They’ve got to hurry, she knows, but she just needs a minute to appreciate the sights and sounds and smells before her. It feels like ages since she was talking to Kita about how much she missed the feeling of the beach and now, somehow, she’s alive to see the real deal again.

But the lingering has to end, because there’s still so much left to see!  Hana sits near her friends, not able to help the big smile on her face as she listens to Keiji speak. They’re so close, and in a bit she’ll be able to contact her moms…all this time, and that’s all she’s wanted for so long.

Her eyes dart around, still warmly looking at the rest of the group. Maybe all of them have their issues, but she really couldn’t deny how glad she was that they had all made it. Even the ones who were partly responsible for all of this still had a place in her heart. The ones they lost were still carried in there, as well. She can’t say if any of the people around her feel the same way about her, but that’s okay. She’s got a big heart, after all!

Some part of her even wants to actually go and sit near Suguri, but she knows that’s kind of…nuts. The two don’t have anything to say to each other. And her, not normal but still very wonderful, friends are sitting near her. But still….whatever happened, they still confided in each other. Still bonded with their pasts. Even if 99% of it was fake, then 1% was still worth hoping in. She had always clung to that 1%, even before she got here.

She wonders if this is how her parents felt, when the world started to get put back together. Uncertain, but hopeful. They had seen the worst humanity had to offer, and came out with nothing but love for their fellow man.

And somehow, maybe because there’s still a world to come back to or because most of her friends are still sitting around her or just because she’s foolish, she feels the same.

[dr-awo]

And Hope Finally Bloomed | Hiroha | Epilogue

Hiroha lets herself get helped to her feet, and before she’s prompted to leave, her eyes turn to the closed pods. She can’t quite see Shou or Megumi clearly behind the glass. Sure, that’s probably for the best, but she’d hoped to see them one last time, for real. Megumi, who’d been so kind to her, cared about her enough to sacrifice her life, and Shou, the woman she loved, still loves, even knowing everything. She won’t forget them. She’s not going to be able to forget anyone here, really.

“...goodbye.”

She walks out, following behind the group, and she can’t help but glance at the unconscious Neo Resurgence members behind her. People who had set all this up to kill them and broadcast it, because they believed in the concept of despair, or at least in its entertainment value. If things had gone differently, maybe she would have been one of these people. Hiroha would hardly call herself lucky with all that’s happened, but at least she didn’t become like that. Noticing she’s lagging behind, she starts to pick up the pace to stay with the group.

Seeing the sun feels strange after all this time, like her body’s forgotten how real warmth feels, and her eyes are remembering how the real sky looks.

[ ♪ ♪ ♪ ]

Hiroha is quiet as they all board the boat, listening to what Keiji says. Right, she’ll have to call her aunt as soon as she can, she knows she’s probably panicking right about now. 

Then, with all of them just sitting there, all she can manage to do is just stare at the people around her. They made it out. She feels a strange uncertainty about ‘what’s next’ really, and there are still things she doesn’t know if she’s processed completely. 

The woman she loves is dead after all, and there's still the reality about Shou she hasn't quite accepted yet for what it is. At least she knows what they felt for each other was real love, and she'll treasure that forever.

Ua still probably hates her, maybe rightfully so with why Megumi gave up, but that’s something they’ll probably be processing with a lot of therapy. That’s ok.

Then there’s Suguri...Suguri betrayed her in a way Hiroha doesn’t think she can forgive after she’d trusted her like that, and she doubts that she actually saw her as anything more than another plaything to bolster her ego with. That’s ok, too. Hiroha’s determination to change is still her own, and she doesn’t owe Suguri anything. When she looks at everyone else that’s encouraged her that’s still here, her determination only grows. 

Kita, Hana, Ken, Mugen, Adam, Kensuke...and Atsushi. Atsushi has a similar uncertain path, with what will likely happen to Bellamy, but whatever it is, Hiroha is going to support him. They’re like siblings to each other now, she wouldn’t dream of doing otherwise.

The future is uncertain for everyone, and that’s alright. The fact that there is a future at all is enough for her. Not a future that’s paved with the ashes of despair like Bellamy planned, and not one with death on a loop like Yuichi wanted. A future of hope.

“Ihi...we made it…n-not bad for a bunch of weird college kids, huh?”

[dr-awo]

THANK YOU | MUGEN | EPILOGUE

[ ♪ ♪ ♪ ]

There wasn't a lot of time for happy moments together, it was time for the survivors of this killing game to make their escape. It was difficult to move, every step took all the strength that Mugen no longer possessed...but he didn't care how difficult it was. He wasn't going to stop. As they left he gave a look at the pods left untouched...he wished a final goodbye to friends that couldn't make it here with them...rest in peace...Jirou, Satoshi, Shinji, Megumi...everyone...

He stumbled through the halls with his fellow survivors, all the people that lay at their feet. All having hands in tormenting them...Mugen paid no mind to them, after all his attention was on one person and one person alone. Can't let him stumble. Can't let him fall. He kept eyes on Ken, ready to leap in at any moment to keep him up, and help him along. So many thoughts were running through Mugen's mind. What future were they to have? Thinking of it didn't matter right now...just focus on the now. They are both safe and they are both getting out of this hell. 

The group emerged and Mugen felt blinded by the bright shine of the sun's rays...it was so warm. Such genuine warmth from the real sun. Nothing in the virtual world could compare to the feeling of seeing the real blue sky and feeling the heat of the real sun. Such a beautiful sight...it almost brought Mugen to tears right there. He was overflowing with joy. He choked back a few tears and smiled at the sight of the outside.

His eyes fixated on the boat and it sunk in more how real this all was. They were really going to leave. This wasn't just another trick in the end. This was all genuine. He hobbled over and gathered into the boat with everyone. Once in the lounging room...Mugen took a seat next to Ken and created as little distance between the two of them that he could. As he listened to Keiji's words his hand found the others and intertwined his fingers with his. The feeling of Ken's hand in his own, it was so similar to what it felt like back in the game but so different at the same time. It was nice...it felt so much nicer, knowing that it's really his hand. He kept up an awake look and paid attention to every word,, he didn't rest even while seated...that was until Keiji left. 

They were all alone now...just the survivors of the killing game. Together. Mugen's eyes scanned over the entire group. Friends...an enemy...that didn't matter...not one bit. He let his eyes slide shut and he leaned himself onto Ken's shoulder as he gripped his hand tighter. He didn't care about any of the other's right now...he wanted to share this moment with a certain person...

[ ♪ ♪ ♪ ]

He let out a breath and a chuckle...he started to speak but his lack of strength still made it hard for him to not have to take a breath every few words.

"I'm so happy, Ken...we really made it...you made it. We ended up getting that boat after all...hehehe..."

He coughed and moved his head to rub it against the other. His eyes slid back open a little, to look at his hand that fit so comfortably into Ken's. 

"Things...probably aren't going to easy after this...but we're strong...we can get through this...I'm always going to be with you, Ken. No matter what happens out there...Sorry, I should just be positive...hehehe...it's a really nice view we got here ain't it? Don't realize how pretty the world is till you're trapped in not...reality for months...el oh el..."

He turned to look at the other and focus his eyes on him...He reached his other hand up to try and pull on the others cheek but it was weak and barely a pull at all. Still, he got to feel Ken's face in his hand...his real face. It was such a nice feeling, it filled Mugen with butterflies and a slight blush formed on his face. He let out another soft laugh

"Ain't nothing...going to split the two of us apart...ever..." 

That was the last thing Mugen was able to say before he felt himself doze off. Keeping himself awake was difficult especially after that escape. He fell off into a peaceful slumber...one that would be filled with nothing but sweet dreams and a bright hope for the future. No matter what trials and tribulations he will face from here on, he wants to face it all with a loving heart and a strong face. 

For everyone that survived...for the generations to come...Mugen wanted to make this world a place where everyone can be happy and carefree...even if it's impossible, that'll never stop him from trying...

"Live in order to make reality shine"...a small smile...formed on Mugen's face, followed by a soft..barely audible...I love you.

[dr-awo]

You Are Stronger Than You Know | Epilogue

Just as you were helped through the facility, now it is the boat that you are helped onto. Just like Keiji said, it’s big; akin to something like a small yacht, furnished to comfortably fit the amount of people expected to board. On the boat, you are taken to the main lounging room in the middle of the enclosed space, surrounded by windows that look out to the ocean and the island that you unknowingly called home for so long.

After getting everyone settled into the available seating, most of your rescuers take their leave to the helm or to the railing outside to keep watch. Left behind is Keiji, who tugs at the end of his sleeve as he looks around the room at all of you.

“...Well. Here we are. Boat. Uh -- yeah. S-Sorry. You’re harder to talk to in person.” He clears his throat and adjusts his glasses. “I’ll just... Go over everything I can think of before we leave while they get shit ready. Uh...”

There’s a pause as he thinks through what to say to you after finally having gotten to this point, but the man finds his words soon enough.

“Like I said, we have somewhere safe to take you for now. Between all of us, we have the resources to help you back to where you need to be. Like... Y’know. Medically. Probably some -- definitely some therapists. Some therapy. First thing we’ll worry about, though, is getting you in contact with loved ones so that they know you didn’t eat shit right at the end. We’ll take care of the whole ‘what’s society up to’ thing while you focus on your recuperation. Some of you will have t--no. No, actually. That’s... That’s all you need to worry about right now. You’ll -- we’ll figure out the rest as we go, yeah?”

He reaches into his pocket, pulling out the tablet device again and sitting it down on a nearby end table.

“There’s a chat client on this, by the way. Don’t break it.”

With that, Keiji gives his sleeve a final tug before glancing around the room one last time with a small huff of air.

“Right! Okay. I’m -- I need to go help so we can fuck off already. If anybody starts doin' weird shit, someone start screaming and one of us will come back.”

The man gives the collective a small nod before turning and walking away, leaving out the door that leads into the ship’s helm.

...

[  ♪ ♪ ♪ ]

And there you sit.

A silence falls over the surviving group, but it is not uncomfortable; it is not oppressive. It is caressed by the sounds of waves and muffled voices, and above all, it is calm. It is gentle.

As you sit in silence, the world directly around you is kind with its fleeting message:

You can rest now.

[dr-awo]

You Have Played the Game Well | Epilogue

[ ♪ ♪ ♪ ]

After the moment of reprieve and of words that could not wait to be said, the surviving students are slowly helped to their feet. Standing and walking are no easy feat, but out of necessity, you manage; you have to. Subduing the Neo Resurgence’s members a second time wouldn’t be any real trouble, but it is still an unneeded trouble that everyone would rather avoid dealing with.

While gathering your footing with the help of your rescuers, Keiji’s voice cuts into the scene, no longer distorted from electronic separation. Most of what he says is at his colleagues, but some of it is still for you.

“Alright. I’d say we have roughly ten minutes to get everyone out before it turns into getting everyone out and shooting people. Don’t really feel like doing that. Already took out their boat engines when we got here, so yes, they’ll be stuck here until someone comes to arrest them. Our boat works and is also bigger. Uh... We’ll... We’ll come back for... Everyone else, too. Later. That’s -- that’s everything, I think.”

After a wayward glance to the still closed pods, he gives the device that Koten’s data was downloaded to a bit of a shake to reconfirm the success of the transfer before pocketing it. He gives everyone a small nod.

“So... Yeah. Let’s go.”

With that, the students are carefully ushered out of the sterile simulation room and into one of the facility’s hallways. Looking at it, the rest of the building is well kept, but much different -- more like some random office building than anything medical. As you’re led through the building, there are other people seen laying unconscious on the floor, apparently less important to the simulation itself but a part of the operation nonetheless. 

But none of that matters. These people -- ones who had an involvement in the hell you experienced -- don’t matter. Leaving the facility, even with help, is a struggle. There are undoubtedly stumbles and near falls along the way, but in the end, you make it out.

That’s what matters.

Out, into harsh sun that takes a few seconds for your eyes to adjust to after leaving the mostly dim facility. After they do, your vision is met by a blue sky dotted white with clouds, which meets the equally blue ocean at the horizon. Closer still...

A boat.

You notice a dock at the edge of the rocky shore some thirty or so feet away, and next to it, a large boat that Seiko is already jogging towards. Presumably, it’s to prepare it for your arrival.

With that realization, the truth and reality of freedom -- at least from the game you played for so long -- sinks in just that much more.

You’re leaving.

[dr-awo]

Good riddance | Suguri | Re: Game Clear

Well, she knew this was coming. Seeing Yuichi get what was coming to him was satisfying, but as soon as it was over, and everyone’s consciousnesses were yanked out of the simulation with its tacky fanfare, she knew it wouldn’t be long before she got what was coming to her.

It wasn’t supposed to end like this.

As her senses properly return to her, she becomes even more acutely aware of the vivid pain that Yuichi’s knife had left in her leg, not at all mitigated by whoever it is trying to bandage it up. She weakly kicks them away. She’s the medical professional, god damnit, and they won’t let her keep even this small piece of dignity.

If she only had the strength to leave, she’d be off this island in a heartbeat. She highly doubts that any of them have anything left to say to her, and so she has nothing to say to them, either. What would she say? They’re going to get to return to a civilization full of hope. She’s going to be hauled off to a prison cell, if she’s lucky. Not that prison could hold the brilliant Suguri Takashima for long. But that’s not the point.

Months of hard work, culminating in absolute failure. This game was supposed to be hers to win.

But now, she feels like the only one who’s lost.