For This Country And Its People!

Whenever you return to your tents you all find a simple tablet sitting on your sleeping bag. It doesn’t have many features on it- just the Komori Guidelines, public bios of your fellow classmates, a map of the cavern, and even a little messaging feature! Though it looks like you can only message one person at a time.

Opening up the Komori Guidelines you’re greeted with a set of rules.

Students are not to harm Komori in any way. Doing so will result in a punishment.

It is encouraged that students don’t go around breaking property willy nilly. They are the ones have to live here after all.

All lights will be turned off at 11PM and will be turned back on at 6AM. Students are not required to be in their tents at this time but it is encouraged- there may be a killer roaming these caves after all!

Students must sleep in their own assigned tent and in no one else’s.

Students are only allowed one tablet. If a student somehow lose their tablet or accidentally damages it then it will not be replaced.

Purposely breaking tablets outside of murders is not allowed.

If students wish to enter the labyrinth then only groups of five students max may enter at a time.

If any students gets injured while exploring the labyrinth at any point then they are to sit tight until Komori comes and fetches them.

“Um… Are you referring to me?”

Standing yet again pretty far from the rest of you was the girl you had come to know as Akane. She blinked at Komori incredulously as the bat pointed at her. Komori nodded and began stomping squeakily towards the girl.

“Yes! This game is only for Hope’s Peak Academy’s 76th class to participate in, and you don’t even belong here! I don’t know what you think you’re doing here but since outsiders aren’t permitted to participate in the game…”

As if on cue; dozens of razor sharp claws suddenly, and rather comically, extruded from Komori’s wings as she gave Akane a devilish stare.

“You’ll have to be disposed of~!”

“W-What? You can’t be serious-!”

Unfortunately Akane never got the chance to finish before Komori was lunging at her at an unreal speed. What happened next was almost too fast and hectic to make out. As Komori slashed and attacked the girl in a frenzy all you could hear was blood curdling screams as blood splattered the ground and ceiling all around you. When it was all over you heard a hard ‘thump’ and saw Akane collapse to the ground in a puddle of her own blood as Komori landed a couple feet away.

With deep gashes and stab wounds all over, Akane stared up at the ceiling with pained wheezes and gasps as she quickly bled out. In her final moments you could have sworn you saw her murmuring something as the light faded from her eyes.

The strange girl who you barely got to know was dead, and she had died right before your very eyes.

…

“…Oh deary me, I may have gotten a little carried away there. I’m so vewy sowwy you had to see that! …Well! Regardless of the messiness of it all let this all be a lesson to you all my dears~ I am very serious and the Mutual Killing Game will be happening.”

“For now I’m gonna go wash myself off before cleaning up this place. I will also be dropping off your own personal Komori Tablets in your tent- they have the rules, guidelines, and a bunch of nifty features on them so I suggest checking them out. If you need anything else in the meantime don’t hesitate to ask~!”

With that Komori finally leaves you all be. After a display like that you’re not sure what to think.  Komori’s explanation, the mutual killing game, Akane’s sudden death- what was the meaning of this all? You could only hope that no one would actually participate in this messed up game Komori had planned for you.

Just what kind of cruel twist of fate was this…?

Before you had the chance to look the iron door in front of you all suddenly ‘clicks’ before slamming open. There you all see a small plush looking bat standing in the entry way. The squeaks of her steps echoed throughout the cavern as she waddled over to you in concern.

“Phew… Oh thank goodness you’re all still here in one piece! I was so worried something might have happened to you all! I’m so vewy sowwy! I won’t ever leave you guys again!”

“…Oh! I’m sowwy, I didn’t even introduce myself yet! I’m Komori~! I’m going to be your personal caretaker during your stay here.”

As the bat spread out her wings enthusiastically at you her words suddenly hit you… Your stay here? What? Seeing the confused looks on your faces Komori continued on.

“Ah! Now now now… You may be asking yourselves, 'Oh no! What is our widdle sweet Komori-chan talking about?’ I know it’s a lot to take in, but, well… You’ll be staying down here with me, permanently.”

“I know a lot of you must be feeling homesick but you must understand…The world as you know it isn’t the same anymore. It’s so dangerous and scawy now, there is nothing left for you back up there but heartbreak and despair… But it’s okay! None of you have to worry because you’ll all be safe here with me! It might be hard but try to think of this place as your new home. If you need anything at all pwease don’t be afraid to ask! I’m here to ensure your well being after all~!”

You could feel the dread in the pits on your stomachs the more Komori spoke. What did she mean the world wasn’t the same anymore? Were you truly going to be forced to stay down here forever? Live the rest of your days in some dingy underground cave that was god knows where? Could this truly be happening to all of you? As you shared uneasy glances with the rest of your classmate your 'caretaker’ spoke up.

“…But, there is one exception. I realize some of you might not be as willing to stay down here fowever with me. If you truly want to go back home then all you gotta do is win a wittle game we’ll all be playing!”

A game? Just what was she talking about this time?

“It can get pwetty drab and boring spending all your time down here so I’ve prepared a little game for everyone to play! This game isn’t optional either- you all gotta play or else it won’t be any fun, okay? The rules are vewy simple…!”

“If you want to leave the cavern and return to the outside world then you must kill one of your fellow classmates and get away with it. Failing to do so will result in your own death as well. Simple enough, yes? You all must participate in our mutual killing game if you ever wish to leave this place. Breaking any rules or attempting to harm me will also result in your death as well.”

Despite Komori’s cheery smile you could only feel your blood run cold. Mutual killing game…? There was no way any of this could be real- This was all so twisted and absurd. Surely there has to be another way out of here. You weren’t actually going to have to go through something so sick and terrible down here, were you?

“…Though I’ve found that you kids don’t tend to believe me when I explain the nature of this game, fyuuu… And there is one other issue we need to take care of before we can begin. Hmm… Oh! I got it! I think a demonstration is in order!”

Just what was she going to do? Before you could inquire further Komori looked out into the crowd of you all and pointed at someone.

It had only been a couple hours since you all woke up before your teacher Miss Bellerose gathered you all together once more. She sounded urgent but still calm

“Hello? Students? Can you please come over here for a short while? I have something to discuss with you all!”

Thanks to how wide open the cavern was it didn’t take you all long to gather next to the iron door where your teacher was standing by. Clasping her hands together Bellerose looked to you all with a reassuring smile.

“I’ve done a lot of looking and I can only presume that this door may be the way for us to escape… However I cannot seem to find the method to opening it. I’m still searching for other means of an exit but for now… I believe this is our only  way out. I don’t see a key hole or a control pad… So I’m assuming there must be another way to open it…”

Before Bellerose could continue any further however, you all heard a tiny shrill squeaking sound coming from behind the door. As you looked among yourself wondering what on Earth was that you hear the pitter patter of squeaks and someone in a panic.

“Oh no! I’m late I’m late I’m late! Uwaaaa-!”

Oh boy, you’re in for a surprise for when you decide to ask that question. But the answer is yes. She has a collection of them, waiting for her return. Or not. We’ll see in due time.

“Your masters teach such things? Strange! Mine only taught me the sword and such things, really, or instruct me to do things like run up and down a mountain in the snow while carryi’ as many sacks full of bags of rice as  I could, builds stamina and character or so I’ve been told.”

She smiles at the memory, though, her training probably sounds intense to say the least but she never once complained and she is not about to start now.

“Aw, I ain’t think I’m so strict to be followin’ stuff like bushido, for example I ain’t fancy myself very courageous.”, she shrugs, her fears being quite silly in fact, “thanks again though! Ya sure got nothin’ but good stuff to say about everyone else, hehe. Yer a nice fellow, you know that?”

She grins as she hears his laughter, were it an act or an attempt at comfort, it’d completely escape her notice, and she naturally assumes it as a natural, honest laugh.

She continued to scan the make-believe sky.

“Ah? I think I’m gettin’ lost here…”, she’s a bit distracted, mentally tracing shapes, “ya mean like that windows of the soul thing, right?”,  she thinks about this, “Well, thanks I’m flattered if ya think so!”, she hums a little for a moment before continuing, “If ya could visit the country it’d be great! I wouldn’t definitely not mind goin’ with everyone here.”

Oh God not the swords! Yet  MIUNHŌSEI would actually be quite thrilled to see some swords in real life! Actually functional swords that aren’t just a decorative conversational piece, that is. Though whether he’d be able to handle wielding a sword in real life remains yet to be seen.

“Cannot say those types of training techniques are unfamiliar to me if I am being honest! I cannot say that I have actually experienced anything as intensely as that, but if I had to I’d say I wouldn’t complain either. After all a strong training is the basis for the skills you accrued over time, yes? Without having gone through that you perhaps wouldn’t even be who you are now. The fact you completed such a rigorous training only reinforces the idea that you are truly strong.”

If she was expecting him to fuzz over the training she received, she’d be wrong! If anything MIUNHŌSEI only seems impressed by it. He wonders if he could ever complete a training like that if he were put through that. He wants to say ‘no’ to himself and yet he finds himself excited over the idea, actually!

“I am only as nice as the person I am talking with. You are a sweetheart yourself as well, Tsukiko-dono, but your compliments are not lost on me, and I thank you deeply for your kind words towards me! I shall do my best to not disappoint you! By the way, I love the scarf you’re carrying. It seems very comfortable and warm. Did you knit it yourself perhaps? It does not look like any model I have ever laid eyes on.”

The make-believe sky... How he wishes it were the real one and not, well, whatever this is... A cavern? A lake? A cavern with a lake that sparkles? It was simply too much for him to try to process right now.

Izana was rather puzzled by the iron door. True, this whole cave was rather confusing, but the fact that this door seemed to have been here for a little while raised more questions. Just how long had it been here? Does this mean there are other people here, too? However, there wasn’t much use thinking too hard on this because it was likely she wasn’t going to get any answers any time soon so Izana chose to walk around and get more familiar with her surroundings. 

As Izana began turning around, she heard a familiar voice calling out to her. Familiar… it was a feeling she’s had ever since seeing her apparent ‘classmates’ and it’s been ever so persistent, nagging away at her as she thought and thought but couldn’t come up with any reasons as to why. Familiar, but at the same time, a total stranger. It was a rather confusing and frustrating conundrum! This voice, though, had a more familiar sound than the others! Turning to face the owner of the voice, Izana widened her eyes at the guy smiling at her now. Just where had she seen this smile before…?

“Yes, that is correct. There’s no need to be so polite though – we’re classmates after all.”

“And please, you’re no burden at all, truly! And If you are who you really say you are, then I too, am honored to be in your presence.”

“Although… you do seem quite familiar, but I just can’t quite put my finger on it..”

It wasn’t as apparent to him before, but when his eyes landed upon her own reddish-brown eyes, he felt... Something stir within him! It was a warm feeling, just the same one he’s experienced when he met two other people in here! It did not feel like an artificial feeling though, this wasn’t just a feeling borne from the admiration he held for her! Those gentle eyes and that sweet expression... He can feel his mind trying to understand what was going on! To try and parse the situation that was going on. All he knew is that his heart’s rhythm accelerated, but he wasn’t flustered before...

Yet now he feels the heat rise to his face, a bizarre event for sure! He doesn’t remember being so flustered before! Why was it that he feels like he should be hugging her right about now? It’s difficult to do so, but he manages to restrain himself and remain where he is, but the now dorky smile accompanying his reddened cheeks is certainly quite the spectacle to witness! Aw gosh, so embarrassing! He’s just going to hope that this won’t make a fool out of him! He’d be embarrassed beyond measure!

“A-Ah yes, m-my apologies for being so flustered..! it’s just... Y-You truly do look like an angel... Something about you just... Stirs something within me..! As you can see my cheeks are quite red but I cannot understand why... There’s just a sense of familiarity as well, have we met each other before, Sakurai-dono? My apologies if I’m just making assumptions! It’s just... You’re striking for me but... Pardon my bluntness, but I just feel like hugging you..! Ah, I just realized how strange that sounds... Please forgive me..!”

He’s just stuttering throughout this entire conversation! But the truth is he just doesn’t understand how to proceed! Still, the fact she seems to know him fills him with glee!

“Exactly, I mean we’re all famous for something… even if it’s only in a small circle.  We probably heard a rumor about one another or something and we just can’t recall it perfectly.”  

Sorry MIUNHŌSEI helping the rich just comes first to mind to the boy.  Blame the mind fuziness, it’s probably just that.

“Really?  All we’ve got is canned junk food?  I mean… I don’t mind snacks and stuff like that but I figured there’d be some fresh stuff for those that liked to cook.  That’s… gonna be a problem long term ain’t it?”

He rubs the back of his hair feeling a bit embarrassed, honestly he wasn’t wrong.  He could strive to eat a bit healthier, it’s a miracle he’s okay enough as it is now.  

“Yeah… cup noodles and potato chips are okay for awhile, and they’re good for late night fuel but… I don’t think I’d want to live off them forever.  Paradise for me would be more… techy and electric honestly.”

“I suppose you do have a point there, all of us were handpicked for our abilities, correct? I do remember that much, however I do not recall ever being informed of a trip down a mysteriously shiny and chilly cave... As a matter of fact, there’s even all these facilities for us to do laundry and eat food at... You don’t think whoever set this up for us is intending for us to stay here, do you? The idea is just preposterous...”

Halfway through that it seems like he stopped talking to the Mecha Model Maker. A gloved hand rests on his chin, thumb and pointer finger framing his chin as his eyes drift to the side, pondering about the situation. Just what was going on here? He’s not sure... It seems he’s also muttering to himself! Something about potential Hope’s Peak Academy enemies? Infiltrators? Kidnapping? Amnesia? My Little Pony?

 It’s difficult to to figure out! Especially when his index finger is also tapping against his chin as he thinks and murmurs to himself. Eventually though he snaps out of his trance and stares at his partner, offering him an apologetic smile. He really shouldn’t have zoned out for so long! Apologetically, he bows down for a few seconds before Ryōma and then straightens up again.

She can feel her cheeks reddening just a bit, even though she’s trying to wave him off again. This is a lot of compliments, you know! She’s not exactly lacking in confidence but it’s not like you usually hear somebody talking about being a soccer captain like it’s this impressive. Sometimes a monologue from a white-haired anime boy is just what you need!

“Well, no, it’s not easy! But I’ve had plenty of time to learn how to do it! Besides. ship captains get help and so do I. The coach is still there to really lead us. I’m just really good at strategies and scoring points. But you’re right, though! It’s good to know who you are and what you’re capable of.

She nods, tapping her head.

“Right, got it! No more quick judgements. I try to read people sometimes, but I get that just assuming stuff like that could definitely be rude. But I do think everyone here is important! I mean, everyone’s important, but…you know. We’re all here because we’re talented and what society would consider important. But you know, whoever raised you did a good job!  I mean, for me, how I was raised and my talent…it’s kinda hard to tell what came first! I get how that’s not the same for everyone, though.”

Reina frowns, tilting her head. ‘Masters’? That sounds a lot worse than just teaching someone please and thank yous. But he seems pretty alright with that.

“Aren’t you technically the master, though? Like the master of manners or something like that. But if you’ve got such a good reputation you’d think people could at least try and listen more. Nothing more frustrating to me than when people won’t take your advice.”

MIUNHŌSEI only chuckles after seeing her cheeks flush! She’s truly adorable isn’t she! Plus she’s also seven inches smaller than him! He almost feels like leaning in close to her and pinching her cheeks! He can sort of agree with the things she’s saying. Being in charge of micro-managing everything the others do is a difficult task, but he usually is limited to a small amount of numbers while she likely has to lead 15 different people at the same time. It sounds quite taxing!

“Hahaha! You’re a bit red right now Saito-dono! Pardon my bluntness but it is quite an adorable sight! Certainly one for sore eyes! I believe I will have an easy time smiling while in your presence if you’re usually this jovial! Nonetheless please do not underestimate your own abilities! Tactics and scoring goals is still an important skill to have! Plus, the fact you now have a title that recognizes your skills is truly impressive! Perhaps you could even whip me into shape! I’m not the best at sports, you see!”

Aw, this is nice. He’s glad he and his tentmate are having such a good time hanging out! Completely and entirely unprompted,  MIUNHŌSEI reaches over for Reina and with his gloved hand ruffles her hair playfully! After all what good are small-sized friend if you cannot be affectionate towards them? Unfortunately  MIUNHŌSEI will derive satisfaction from playing with Reina like this!

“You flatter me too much Saito-dono! It is true, I am employed to teach others, but I am still a young man myself. Addressing my employers with respect is simply part of who I am. As for who raised me... Well, not to dampen the atmosphere, but you’re looking at him right now..!”

Oh... Yeah, that would tense any other atmospheres around if it got out, but he does not seem bother to admit to such things! He’s still relatively calm and smiling! But he does nod his head in agreement with what she’s said. It is disappointing when people simply refuse to listen to the advice others give... One cannot improve without listening to what others have to say, after all.

Oh lord, was he going to cry? Imoo stares for a brief moment to see what’s going to happen… but then, the consultant laughs. That’s the opposite of what he expected to happen, quite frankly. Though he definitely prefers it to him crying. Making someone else cry on the first day would definitely be starting off on the wrong foot, and if he did that, he’d probably be cursed for the rest of his time there.

…Okay, maybe they weren’t that superstitious. But it’d still be a bad way to start out meeting his supposed classmates.

Now he’s standing, and- oh, Jesus. He’s nearly a foot taller than they are. Imoo looks up at him, trying to maintain eye contact… though he has to hold the back of his straw hat to keep it from falling off. God. He’s so tall that a lot of what he’s saying completely flies over their head, both figuratively and literally. 

“Wait, so… what kind of people hire consultants on etiquette.”

Rich people, probably, but they’re curious if there’s anyone besides that. The fact that he’s never met anyone like Imoo strikes him, though. What’s that supposed to mean?

“Anything like… what? I’m just myself. Nothin’ special.”

At this point, it’s clear he’s going to be in the laundry room for a while. Might as well make himself comfortable. Turning away from the conversation for a moment, Imoo picks up one of the washbasins and turns it upside-down. They sit on it, having made a nice little stool for themself. 

“Um, sure.”

Magnificent? That seems like a lot… this guy is either really easily impressed or he’s overcompensating for something. Or maybe rich people just like being treated the way that MIUNHOSEI’s treating him? The lives of the rich and famous… something he’ll never understand.

“A curious question, yes. I understand why you would be confused. It is true that the people who often require my services are those who would be considered the ‘1%’ of the world, but etiquette is not a word that applies solely to where you put your eating utensils. The definition of ‘etiquette’ is the following: the customary code of polite behavior in society or among members of a particular profession or group. As for my types of employers, they range from all types: families of any station, small business, companies and even simply people who wish to conduct themselves better in the world.”

Quite a thorough and wordy explanation! He knows Manabu doesn’t want to have to deal with him doing so, but alas sometimes he needs to be wordy to properly explain certain things, such as what the definition of ‘etiquette’ is. But at their next statement, he only nods.

“Precisely, Imoo-dono. You might find this hard to believe, but most people I tend to work with are seldom their true selves. They hide their true feelings and thoughts without regard on what their loved ones and partners might think. You are honest, and that is why I find you to be a breath of fresh air! Haha, I apologize if I have been too blunt though. It is just that honesty is a trait I admire a fair bit.”

MIUNHŌSEI seems to have no issues or even mind the fact Manabu gets themselves a nice stool to sit at and stares at him. He never truly realized how small Manabu was until now, but he doesn’t point it out. Instead he just smiles at the Fisherman.

Psalm needs this guy to stop smiling at her, or she was going to go blind, and wouldn’t that just be a whole ‘nother problem to add onto a quickly growing list.

Problem #1: They were currently trapped in what seemed to be an underground cave, and she had a roommate.

Problem #2: She had a roommate in a TENT.

Problem #3: The only adult in this entire place apparently had no idea what was going on and seemed, if possible, even more clueless than they did.

Problem #4: This extremely tall living embodiment of sunshine was staring her down with puppy dog eyes and lifting her off of the ground and for once, she doesn’t feel the need to call security, which is even more worrying than needing to call security in her opinion.

It’s so strange, though. Something about him makes her feel like she’s coming home after a long day’s work. And you know what? She is not about to take literally any familiar face for granted.

Except the e-boy. The e-boy is getting taken for granted. Sorry Masataku.

“It…it does rather feel like it’s been some time, doesn’t it? Ugh, we must all have collective amnesia…do you think we’ve been drugged? Wouldn’t that be frightful!” Try looking slightly concerned at the concept, Psalm. She smiles widely up at her acquaintance instead. “You’re silly. Don’t exaggerate so much, it’s not as if I even taught you anything. You could practically run my show for me. In fact, you should! I could use a vacation.”

She squeezes his hands, her smile so big it engulfs her face, before she frowns a bit and sighs.

“Unharmed, sure. But this isn’t ideal, is it? I’m growing a little worried, Miu-Miu…nothing bad will happen, right?”

Sure it won’t!

There was certainly a problem afoot, and that problem was that he didn’t quite understand what about this unnaturally pale but lovely girl drew him towards her so much! It feels like there’s something missing, something about her that’s just not yet quite clicking! Has he seen her recently? For someone he feels he hasn’t met in a year, she also feels so familiar at the same time? As if not a single day has passed since they last cooked something together! Since the last time she taught him her brand of cuisine. 

How long ago was it that he made her that cake in the shape of a rotting zombie brain? He doesn’t know, but he’s not about to let such a minor thing get in the way of his happiness! She was here and that’s all that matters! He almost feels himself getting lost in her eyes again..! Wait... Again..? No, that doesn’t matter! The only thing that matters is that she’s here and just seeing her again alights his emotions!

Hesitantly, he lets go of one of her hands to instead reach over for her face, gently resting his hand against her cheek, caressing it with his thumb... She feels so familiar too, and that excess of makeup is more than comforting to see! So she’s been holding out well, hasn’t she? That brings him more joy than anything else so far. A friend in times of peril... It almost feels too good to be true! But he’s not going to take such a situation for granted.

“Dreadfully terrifying, even! But if there’s anything I’m grateful for is that if what we have is truly amnesia they didn’t take away my memories of you. I would rain hell on the perpetrators if they had done so!”

He doesn’t even seem to mind or bother to point out the morbid comments she’s made. How could he? Those are part of the Psalm B. charm! Besides, he’s more than used to those. The comments actually earn her a slight laugh from him.

“Perhaps I will someday, but it wouldn’t be 28 Minutes Later without its spooktacular star at the very least supervising my performance!”

Then she brings up a concerning point and he knits his brows, his grip over her other hand tightening before a peaceful smile tugs at the corners of his lips.

“I would not allow any danger to befall you, Psalm-dono. You are beyond just one of my Masters. You’re my beloved friend, I would ensure your safety above all else, alright? Please place your trust and faith in me as I do mine in you. As long as I’m here, I shall protect you from the clutches of danger..!”

“I ain’t got my swords, not a single one of ‘em.”, she explains, “I do mediate sometimes, ‘cus I’m pretty dang good at emptying my head, gawahahaha!”, she’s mostly joking, but she does indeed do yoga and the like, “But I like to do it after training so it feels a lil’ moot, right now. Thanks for offerin’ help though, means a bunch! No idea what a skinny legend is but!”

She gives a smile and a thumbs up. She isn’t too worried, her blade wouldn’t dull so easily, and if nothing else, she can still do every other exercise.

“Aww, thanks so much! It’s not like I did all by myself, though, I had buncha trainin’ from friends and my ma worked and keeps working hard for me to ‘ave the chance to be ‘ere. Or er, ya know, Hope’s Peak. Not the cave, anyway! Thanks! I ain’t sure I’m all that stuff or anythin’ but I try!”

Complimenting her giggles of all things is strange when she… laughs like….

“Gawahahaha!”, she throws her head back a bit, staring at the ceiling, “It’s kinda embarrassing bein’ complimented so much, a rarity too.”, she runs her fingers through her comically long scarf, “but I’ll take it! I think I get ye olde brown eyes only though, haha!”

She again fixates on the ceiling now that he mentioned it again.

“It’s this”, she starts to gesture with her hands, trying to make big gestures as if imitating the sky, “magical kinda thing! Like not matter how much ya see it, it doesn’t get old. It’s fun to run and play under the night sky like that, too! I totally recommend it, if ya got the chance.”

Not a single one of them? Does she just have an entire rack of swords or something? It would be quite concerning if she did have one of those in here! But at the same time, she probably could’ve cut through that elevator or that weird iron door lodged in the cave if she had them. So does that mean someone took them from her on purpose? There’s a lot of mysteries in this small cave he’s come to realize... He even chinhands as he thinks about this... That is until she brings him back to reality!

“Hm? Oh, yes, that term! Truth is I am unaware of its origins or what the significance behind it is. It is just something I hear some of my former Masters say. Still, to give the credit not only to yourself but even those that helped guide you to where you are now is truly a noble thing, Tsukiko-dono. You remind me of a samurai with how honorable you are..!”

He can already imagine her standing in full samurai armor and tearing havoc with not one but two swords! Probably to her surprise, he doesn’t seem at all shocked or surprised or even judgmental of her laughter! He just soaks it in and then...

“Hahahahaha! In that case people have been mistreating you! Everyone could use a compliment once in a while, you included of course! But mine come from the heart, so please trust me when I say I do mean everything I say! Hahahahaha!”

Is he... Ugly laughing in conjunction with her? Yes, he is! It’s certainly not as loud or energetic as she is, but he’s still throwing his head back like she is! After all he doesn’t want her to feel like she’s alone in her laughing! Besides, he’s been through worse! An unorthodox laugh like that doesn’t mean much to him! Everyone is different in their own way, after all.

There’s definitely… a lot going on. It’s a bit hard for Hibiki to take in– especially when there’s so little information about anything going on. So, he’s left to wander around the caverns of this place in search of his own answers. Will he find them? Probably not. But it’s at least nice to distract himself a little with something.

As he arrives at the lake, he decides to rest against one of the cave walls facing the lake and stare out into it. He’s not a fan of big bodies of water but there is something at least rather calming about it. Perhaps it’s nice to know that at least there’s something of interest in this cave besides… well… a rusted door and a broken elevator.

His thoughts come to a halt when he hears the sound of someone else’s voice.

“Huh? Oh, it’s nothing! I was just, uh, thinking!”

As MIUNHŌSEI approaches him, Hibiki turns to meet the gaze of the other, noticing how warm his smile is. He tries to reciprocate it with an equally warm smile!

He stares at MIUNHŌSEI’s hand for a second and then shakes it looking at him like ^_^!!

“I’m Hibiki Gima! It’s nice to meet you too, uh, Miu… Miun… Miu-niichan!”

MIUNHŌSEI nods! Ah, so this guy was just thinking! There’s a lot he wants to think about such as why he’s dressed like that, this is a chilly cave after all! He wonders if they just were distracted? Or maybe they thought this was not going to be stuck here forever? No, stop thinking about being stuck here forever! This is their new home though, isn’t it? So does this mean they’re all... Stuck at home? He wishes he could see the glass half-full instead of half-empty right about now... Alas, this is what he was practically trained to assume in situations like these when he can’t help others.

MIUNHŌSEI’s shake is firm at first and his smile unwavering! But the moment Hibiki gives him that smile and nickname, his cheeks immediately turn bright red and his expression turns from one of confidence into what appears to be deep embarrassment! He even refuses to let go of Hibiki’s hand, holding onto it instead! If Hibiki pays close attention he’d even see him covering the lower half of his face with his remaining gloved hand! Hibiki has successfully flustered him!

“That... That’s... That’s such a cute nickname Gima-dono!! N-No! Gimacchan! N-No, Hibi-niichan!! Ah, may I hug you? You’ll have to excuse me! I-I’m just... So glad to have made a friend so quickly!”

True to his word, he gives Hibiki a big, tight and warm hug! He’s surprisingly good at hugging despite his size! He even lifts Hibiki off the ground and holds them in his arms for a couple of seconds before gently putting them down, face no longer flushed but still averting his gaze from them in embarrassment!

“Ah, again, you’ll have to excuse me..! I just... Lost my levelheadedness for a second back there... I was just exhilarated that you christened me with a nickname, Gima-dono... U-Unless you like any of the nicknames I assigned you..!”

freetiquette‌:

The Mechanized Model Menace? Even he had to admit that this was kind of a silly moniker to possess! But in its own way it was charming as well? He certainly wishes he had other monikers under his belt! He was clearly on the losing side on the battle of charm against the Mechanized Model Beast. But it seems the other agrees with him! There’s something odd going on here regarding their memories… He doesn’t know much, but what he does know is that he never forgets a face, it’s one of the reasons his memory’s so immaculate, after all! Something in here was certainly bizarre.

“You feel the same way as I do? Yes, I thought that would be strange… Truth be told, I get a sense of familiarity out of everyone here. In its own way it’s kind of absurd… Well, no use in fuzzing about something we do not yet fully understand, correct? I apologize if my sudden talking caught you by surprise though..! My name is MIUNHŌSEI, I am an Etiquette Consultant! Pleased to be meeting you… For the first time..?”

He’s confused about this whole ordeal, but he still manages to offer the Mecha Model Maker a serene smile. It’s best to always remain calm in these kinds of situations instead of losing his head over them, yeah?

“I suppose I can agree that a laundry machine would severely improve the living conditions here! But do not fret, I am a man of my word and a master of these kinds of situations! Shall you and the rest allow me to, I will gladly take care of those pesky tasks for you all. Besides, I doubt most of you even know how to manually wash your clothes..!”

He laughs! He means that mostly as a joke… But he wouldn’t be surprised if most everyone here didn’t even know how to use a washboard.

“Hmm… might be that doppelganger effect?  You know, where you think you’ve seen someone but you just met their doppelganger?  Don’t worry about the surprise though, kinda bound to happen when we all got crammed into this place.”  

There were a lot of them, 23 in fact right?  

“MIUNHŌSEI… sounds familiar, Etiquette Consultant…”  He puts a hand to his chin as he closes his eyes to think.  “I’ve definitely heard about you in the news… or maybe a web forum?  Either way I’m pretty sure you’ve done good for some high class people.”  Or something along those lines.  “Anyway, nice to meet you too, again if we somehow crossed paths once.”

Thinking about using a washboard for a long time and just air drying makes him irritated.  

“Nah it’s alright man, you might be the butler type, but I can handle cleaning my own clothes for now at least.  But… if you’re willing to like cook and stuff, I’d appreciate that much!”

The Doppelganger Effect? It would make sense... That is until ‘lookalikes’ are mentioned. He’s pretty sure there’s no one else on Planet Earth that looks quite like him! He likes to believe he’s a one-of-a-kind at the very least! Otherwise he’d be surprisingly sad about that... Well, it’s no cause for concern! He’s just got to focus on the present; the here and the now then!

“Well it is quite alarming to me either ways... But I suppose there’s no harm in taking your word for it. Perhaps you’re right, we’re all relatively well-known so maybe that’s why we get that sense of familiarity? Regardless of the case, it is still nice to meet you either ways..!”

He’s a bit disappointed that Ryōma thinks that MIUNHŌSEI’s only helped the elite of Japan when he’s rather well-known for his efforts in helping others regardless of their standing in life, but he won’t argue about it. He’d like to consider himself more than just an asset or a tool for others... Maybe that’s just an inescapable truth of his though? He’s going to have to ponder about this some other time when he’s feeling more... Safe.

“I wish I could make any proper meals in here, but unfortunately it seems that there’s only canned junk food. If I may be so blunt, it almost seems like whoever put us here, if it truly was anyone but us, then they just want us to die from developing terrible eating habits. But if you are the type to enjoy canned food and snacks without proper nutrients then this must be paradise for you.”

Does she look like a ship captain? She feels a little too pretty for that…but it still feels like a compliment! Ship captains are like, super strong and cool, right? But the actual truth makes her super strong and cool. She giggles, shaking her head.

“I’m a soccer captain, actually. I’ve never even been on a ship before…it’s flattering that you’d think I might have been able to do that, though! Guess I am good at leading a team and guiding us to victory! So I guess that’s just what all captains do, huh. And…I mean, I’m definitely a little worried, but I‘m a glass half-full kind of person. We’re all safe and not hurt, and we’ve got supplies to last for a bit. No sense in stressing ourselves out more than we have to.”

Although the sooner they could get out, the better. They all probably had things they had to do! They couldn’t just stay trapped in a cave forever. Not to mention she wasn’t quite sure how long these supplies could last, anyway.

“That explains why you’re so nice, heh. How am I doing? Sometimes my manners aren’t as great as I’d love for them to be. But that’s really cool! You’re helping a lot of people, and that’s respectable. Maybe we got paired together so you could whip me into shape,”

She giggles.

“Probably not, but I’m glad my tent-mate can be someone as nice as you. Not that the others I’ve met are jerks or anything. They’re really cool, actually! But some people just don’t get along sometimes, you know? We’re doing alright.”

“Is that so? Color me just as impressed then! Handling a team entirely by yourself is just as splendid and spectacular as manning a ship! Frankly, what you’re doing is no easy task! I agree on the sentiment though, positive vibes and keeping a good morale are just as important as anything else! Be prideful of who you are as a person! After all if you cannot even acknowledge yourself on a job well done then expecting others to do the same is rather foolish would you not agree? We must believe in ourselves more than in anything else!”

Did he just go into an anime-like monologue right there? Absolutely! But it’s not like he can help it, he is a white-haired anime boy after all. But he’s still looking around for something. An escape perhaps? Really anything that could hint at a way for them to get out of this place. If escape is even possible! But he’s not sure he wants to go down that road just yet. 

“Haha! I suppose? But I would say my personality is not directly-related to my Talent! I just am the way I am because it is how I was raised. To be respectful and always do my best no matter the situation! Helping others is what brings me joy. But if you truly wish me to educate you then I suppose we should start with a basic lesson: never judge others! You never know what others have been through or why they behave the way they do! Everyone is an important person here! But I’m sure someone as sweet as you already knows that!”

He doesn’t know why but he feels like she and him are going to get along just fine! Swimmingly smooth, even! 

Tsurugi is nothing if not quick and energetic indeed, and carefree. Like, far too carefree for her own good as well as everyone else’s.

“Oohhh, yeah that makes sense… I’m annoyed I can’t train ‘ere. I ain’t even got any swords on me or anythin’.”, she pauses, “I coulda prob’aly run laps though and that sorta thing, but it ain’t the same.”

Oh well. It’s not like they were in any danger in her mind.

“But yeah!”, she perks up, nodding at the other, “it’s nice there’s folks ‘round to chat with!”

She raises an eyebrow. “Fancy tittle ya got there!”, her hand travels along her scarf, “I’m the fencer of the group, y’know like stabby stabby.”S

She gestures as if she had a sword, though not a lot, seeing as she had sat down.

“Yeppers, from where I’m from, ya can see the night sky without all the lights”, she doesn’t like people knowing she’s from the country, but she doesn’t realize this is giving it away, either. “So it feels kinda peaceful ‘ere!”

She laughs at the compliment, “Shucks, really? Thanks! I ain’t get that very often, hehe!”

“You can’t train here? Well I suppose that is possible depending on the kind of training you were aiming to do! Physical exercise? Mental exercises? Perhaps even some yoga? If you are in need of either of those please do not hesitate to ask me for assistance! Otherwise I’d do nothing but bring shame to my title of SHSL Etiquette Consultant! Besides, I’m pretty sharp myself I’d say! I know that I look perhaps a bit like a ‘skinny legend’ to use a modern term, but I assure you I am at my peak!”

He even flexes! It looks kind of silly considering his arm is almost like a twig, but there’s certainly muscle mass in there! Probably not as much as she has though considering how daily she swings around a sword! He even expresses surprise when she mentions what it is that she exactly does! He even chuckles to himself.

“Sword training then! Yes I suppose I can understand that! Still, attaining such a title at your age? You’re an inspiration and a role model as well then! Let’s both do our best together, Tsukino-dono! I am glad to find out that I wasn’t mistaken; you truly do have very warm and kind eyes!”

Seems like he either didn’t catch her being from the countryside... Or he did catch up and avoided bringing it up! If she didn’t mention it more directly it was for a reason after all, right? It wouldn’t be of any good to speak about a topic she herself seems to be avoiding! He nods his head though. He did find her way of speaking charming! Due to his work he rarely gets to hang out with others that aren’t from the city.

Not every kitchen can be ideal, you know? Hana’s just happy they have a kitchen. She’s not exactly at as good a chef or a cook as Miunhosei probably is, though. And that’s alright! As long as she can make something halfway decent here, that’s all that matters. And from the looks of it, they’ll be able to survive together. She still preens a bit at the compliment, even if she’s also waving it off with a chuckle.

“You’re too sweet! I’m glad my energy can help you, though. It’s my job as a captain to inspire hope in times of despair….or just times of super bad confusion. Anyway, of course you don’t have to share! I’d love to get to know you better, but I’m not gonna ask for your whole life story while we’re standing in our weird mini-kitchen. It’s not awkward at all, though! I think it’s…kinda cool!”

Man, she should just go by Reina. That would probably be a really cool title, right? She frowns a little bit as he turns away, but she doesn’t want to comment on it. If he’s pushing through the sadness, she’s not gonna dig in there. It wouldn’t be appropriate.

“Are you a chef? I don’t really know a lot about anyone’s talents, sorry. But you know it’s….it’s a kitchen! It’s livable.  I’m sure the others aren’t expecting like a big fancy meal e…every night? How long are we going to be down here, do you think? I don’t even know how to get out of this part of the cave. But um…yeah, I don’t know! Hope this isn’t rude, but we seem totally different. But maybe there is something there? Who’s to say.”

Kitchen discourse 2019... Even so he cannot help but think guilty about it. He was intending to at the very least offer his best services to the group gathered here, but unfortunately it doesn’t seem like he’s going to be able to do so given the low-quality of, well, literally everything in here. 

“A captain huh! What for if you do not mind me asking! Of a ship perhaps? I’d be impressed if you could man an entire ship by yourself! But thank you either ways for not barreling and asking about my story. It means a lot more than you’d think. But... Why do you think it’s cool? Are you not worried about what this place is?After all it’s not everyday a person wakes up in a cavern without any recollection on how they even got here...”

He has his suspicions! But for now he’s just going to, well, not delve onto that topic any further. Just thinking about it exhausts him. Maybe he should focus on literally anything else to get his mind off things though. It would certainly put him more at ease.

Ryoma had decided to take a small nap, after all, his dreams and imagination were way more fun that the boring confines of the cave.  Which seemingly, had no exit point.  Still he could only nap so much before waking up out of his tent and stretching his arms and legs out of the tend with a stifled yawn.

As he’s exiting though he’s approached by someone he’s sure he’s seen before but doesn’t quite know why or how.  Though they seem to know him well enough.  Tucking his hand into his pockets he smiles radiantly while nodding his head.  

“Yup!  That’s me, Hayato, Ryoma!  The Mechanized Model Menace, or one of my many monikers.  Feeling’s mutual, I know that I know you from somewhere but… well the details are about as blurry as a sandstorm.”  

Prompted about the beauty of the cave he sort of just looks around.  

“I’m not much of a spelunker, so I guess this is an alright cave?  Woulda been better if it had wifi though, and a working washing machine.  Not bad, I give this cave a 7/10. Your name though… it’s escaping me, gimmie a hint or just remind me.  Otherwise it’s going to be annoying me the rest of my time here.”

The Mechanized Model Menace? Even he had to admit that this was kind of a silly moniker to possess! But in its own way it was charming as well? He certainly wishes he had other monikers under his belt! He was clearly on the losing side on the battle of charm against the Mechanized Model Beast. But it seems the other agrees with him! There’s something odd going on here regarding their memories... He doesn’t know much, but what he does know is that he never forgets a face, it’s one of the reasons his memory’s so immaculate, after all! Something in here was certainly bizarre.

“You feel the same way as I do? Yes, I thought that would be strange... Truth be told, I get a sense of familiarity out of everyone here. In its own way it’s kind of absurd... Well, no use in fuzzing about something we do not yet fully understand, correct? I apologize if my sudden talking caught you by surprise though..! My name is MIUNHŌSEI, I am an Etiquette Consultant! Pleased to be meeting you... For the first time..?”

He’s confused about this whole ordeal, but he still manages to offer the Mecha Model Maker a serene smile. It’s best to always remain calm in these kinds of situations instead of losing his head over them, yeah?

“I suppose I can agree that a laundry machine would severely improve the living conditions here! But do not fret, I am a man of my word and a master of these kinds of situations! Shall you and the rest allow me to, I will gladly take care of those pesky tasks for you all. Besides, I doubt most of you even know how to manually wash your clothes..!”