Kenshin Kuroba stepped out of the elevator, the dimly lit lobby unfolding before him like a forgotten tomb. The once-opulent chandelier hung dark and still, its crystals dulled by a layer of dust. The air reeked of stagnation, a stark contrast to the vibrant atmosphere that once pulsed through the hotel.
"Kenshin, over here!" Akane Minamoto waved, her medical bag slung over her shoulder. Her eyes, though weary, sparkled with warmth.
Kenshin approached Akane and Takanori Shinoda, who stood guard, rifle at the ready. Takanori's rugged demeanor commanded respect, a testament to his military background.
"Everyone accounted for?" Kenshin asked, his gaze sweeping the lobby.
"All present," Akane replied, her voice steady. "Renn's setting up the party decorations."
Takanori nodded, his eyes scanning the perimeter, ever vigilant.
Renn Furyu burst in, tech-gadgets clipped to his belt. "Party prep's done! Music, drinks, and—"
"A apocalypse-themed photo booth!" Hinata Nakamura exclaimed, paint-splattered apron wrapped around her waist. Her artistic flair added a touch of whimsy to the desolate space.
Yor Noguchi scrutinized the area, camera slung around her neck. "This hotel's security is compromised. We should—"
"Later, Yor," Kenshin interrupted, his tone gentle but firm. "Tonight, we celebrate survival."
As the group began to set up, Kenshin's thoughts drifted to the lost loved ones, the shattered world outside, and the unknown future. The weight of responsibility settled heavy on his shoulders.
"Let's get this party started!" Renn shouted, blasting music through the lobby.
The group shared weary smiles, their laughter and chatter momentarily drowning out the apocalypse's darkness. For one night, they'd forget the horrors outside and find solace in each other's company.
Hinata handed Kenshin a brightly colored party hat. "Put this on, Kenshin. You're the host, after all."
Kenshin chuckled, donning the hat. "To new beginnings."
The group echoed his toast, their voices filled with a mix of hope and desperation.
As they celebrated, the shadows outside seemed to grow longer, the darkness pressing in. But within the hotel's walls, a beacon of resilience flickered to life.