Akira: "Ichiko Ohya..." The name of Akira's lover rang in the back of his head, as he reclined back on the couch. Staring at the ceiling of his room. Silence filled the attic room, not one sound could be heard, beside the sound of his own breathing...and Morgana snoring on his bed. He slowly shut his eyes and drifted off into his memories.
Akira: "Ya know...I can almost remember perfectly the first time I met her..." He thought. Remembering their first encounter.
Akira: "It was just after me, Ryuji,Ann and Morgana had gained access to Madarame's palace. Right after exploring a few sections of the place we called it quits after stumbling upon that...disturbing statue." Akira gritted his teeth just thinking about that statue..."The Infinite Spring". Just remembering the words engraved on that statue made him sick, Akira will NEVER regret taking that dirty old man down.
After that the next day the group had a...falling out with Yuskue when they tried to question Yusuke about Madarame's plagiarism...Akira and Ryuji were to come nowhere NEAR Madarame's house again, while Ann...well...
Ann: "He's totally OUT of his mind! I'm gonna have to pose NUDE this keeps up!" She roared.
Needless to say she was NOT happy with how things turned out.
Morgana: "How DARE that Yuskue!" The cat spoke with venom in his voice.
Akira: "I'm pretty sure your just offended because he wants to paint Ann naked. If it were me or Ryuji you'd probably laugh." Akira smirked at the black cat.
Morgana: "Lady Ann's beauty should not be soiled by unworthy eyes!" Morgana spat back annoyed.
Akira: "Hehehehe...oh yeah cause that sure would be a tragedy.~" Akira's voiced dripped with sarcasm.
Morgana: "Well I'm glad you agre-
Ann: "WOULD YOU TWO SHUT UP AND FOCUS! I. AM. GOING. TO. HAVE. TO. GO. NUDE! NUDE!" Ann roared in frustration.
Carmen: "Ann darling please calm yourself. You might pop a blood vessel." Ann's persona said calmly as she appeared over Ann.
Ann: "Carmen...popping a blood vessel...Is the LEAST OF MY CONCERNS RIGHT NOW..." She growled, while her left eye twitched in anger.
Arsene: "Are you sure? Because I hear popping a blood vessel is rather uncomfortable." Said the gentleman thief as he appeared over Akira.
Akira: "Arsene please don't get her even more riled up then she already is." Akira pleaded while pinching the bridge of his nose.
After a few minutes of talking about how they would deal with Madarame, they made a plan to look into him a little more. Once their plan was agreed on they heard a voice from behind them.
?: "Hey, can I talk to you kids for a sec?"
Ryuji: "Huh?" The blonde turned and raised an eyebrow, along with the rest of the group.
Standing before them was a women who looked to be in her late twenties with a bowl cut style black hair, orange tinted sunglasses, crimson red lips, brown eyes, a black short sleeve T-shirt with the motto "low life fight the power" on it, a white long-sleeved shirt under the black shirt, and blue jeans. She had on a pink fanny pack, with a water bottle hanging from it, and a camera hanging from her neck. Lastly she had on black and white sneakers.
Akira: "Hmmmm...dressed mega casually...fanny pack, camera around her neck...*SIGH*...she's either a photographer or a GOD DAMN REPORTER." Akira cursed inside his head as he examined the woman. The boy never really had a high opinion of reporters, when he thought of reporters...names like, parasites, vulchers, rats, hounds, and annoying would always come to mind. That was reporters in a nutshell to him.
Akira: "I hope she's a photographer..." He sighed shoving his hands in his pockets.
?: "From the looks of things, you don't seem like the ordinary, stalking fans." She says casually.
Ann: "Uh..."
Carmen: "Rude..." The gypsy mumbled.
Captain Kidd: "Very."
?: "Oh, sorry, I should've been more clear." She laughed placing her hand on her hip.
Akira: "Ya think?" He spat, crossing his arms.
?: "I'm actually looking for people that know Madarame's pupils."
Akira: "Hmm...really?" Akira raised an eyebrow.
?: "There's this painting, "Sayuri" that was supposedly stolen in the past."
?: "But there's this rumor that it was taken by one of his pupils in retaliation for being abused."
Akira bite his lip and TRIED not to frown.
Akira: "Right...she IS a DAMN reporter...*SIGH*..." The boy cursed in his thoughts once more.
?: "Have you heard anything about that?" She asked.
Before Ryuji or Ann could even think Akira quickly replied.
Akira: "Sorry lady, we got nothing for ya." He said dismissively, not really wanting to continue the conversation any further.
?: "I see..." Her face and tone dropped.
?: "There's no case unless there's a victim, and if there's no proof of abuse... I cant write either."
Akira: "Pffff...when does a lack of proof EVER stop you reporters from writing whatever the hell you want?" He wanted to say aloud, but kept to himself.
?: "Looks like I'm back to square one. Sorry for taking your time." She said as she took a few steps toward Akira.
?: "I'm a journalist. If you ever get any leads, mind contacting me here?" She asked, handing the boy a card with her info on it.
The boy reluctantly took the card and placed it in his bag.
Akira: "Yeah...sure." Akira forced a smile.
?: "Okay see ya then!" She smiled and walked off.
Akira: "Don't count on it..."
Arsene: "You know Akira you shouldn't judge someone solely on their profession. I mean you have a very similar problem with being labeled am I correct? Delinquent." Arsene stated as he crossed his arms.
Akira: "Well...that label isn't COMPLETELY off base." He said pushing up his glasses.
Morgana: "Actually it suits him just fine."
Akira: "Hmm?" Akira hummed, as he perked up one of his ears.
Akira: "Sorry what? Is that the sound of someone who wants to sleep outside?" He threatened in a cold tone.
Morgana: "See what I mean? Cruel..." Mumbled the cat as he sunk into the boys bag...
Ryuji: "Yeah man you can be kinda mean sometimes..."
Akira: "You're one to talk blondie."
Everything then went to black as Akira slowly opened his eyes halfway. Back in reality, he stared at the ceiling once more in silence.
Akira: "..."
Akira: "Heh...and there I thought that would be the last time I ever saw or heard from her again...that is until the whole Kaneshiro thing came along..." The boy shut his eyes and drifted off into his memories once again.
Akira and the group were pretty much dead in the water looking for clues on the mafia boss. That is until Ann brought up that journalist, Ryuji had completely forgotten about her and honestly Akira did too. Then he remembered he still had her card...SUPRISINGLY. So they decided to call her up, she didn't respond right away. So it looked like they were going to have to wait until she responded back.
Two days went by until Akira came back to the cafe after being Takemi's little guinea pig, just as he walked up the stairs and into his room...
Pi-Pi-PiPi! He's phone went off.
Akira: "That better be her." The boy scuffed as he checked his messages.
Akira and Morgana both sat together and read her message. She would meet with him at The Crossroads Bar in Shinjuku.
Akira: "Shinjuku huh?...Cooooool.~" A crooked smile creeps on the boy's face.
Jack Frost: "Hee Hoo...Master is making a really scary face...hoo..."
Zorro: "No good ever comes when he makes that face."
After informing the gang, Ryuji suggested that just Akira, him, and Morgana to head out there. Eventually Ann and Yusuke agreed, then just like that Akira, Morgana, and Ryuji met up at the station.
Akira: "*SIGH*...Ryuji..."
Ryuji: "Yeah?" The blonde cocked his head.
Akira: "We agreed we WOULDN'T come here in our school uniforms!" Akira growled at the blonde.
Ryuji: "I didn't have time to go home and change..." Ryuji hung his head.
Akira: "Oh my god...I actually work with this guy...wow..."
Captain Kidd: "Ya think you have it rough lad? Try spending every moment of everyday with this one." Kidd complained as he laid back on his ship.
Arsene: "I feel sorry for you." Arsene shook his head.
Akira: "You have my sympathy too."
Ryuji: "Why is everyone always taking shots at me?!" The poor boy cried out.
Akira & Arsene: "You make it too easy." The two said in unison.
After they arrived in Shinjuku they wondered around while being harassed by assholes, weirdos, and a cop. The cop was of course...because of Ryuji wearing his school uniform, and Akira was NOT happy about it because that whole chase could have been avoid if he had just put on normal clothes like they agreed. Akira swore Ryuji would pay for making this trip more of a hassle for him. Oh yeah and they also ran into a weird fortune teller who basically said Ryuji's love life is looking pretty bleak, needless to say Akira got a laugh outta that.
Once they found the bar...
Ryuji: "It would probably be bad if I went there in my uniform...you take over dude."
Akira: "My god...your useless..."
Arsene: "Truer words could not be spoken."
Morgana: "I second that emotion."
Ryuji: "Harsh..."
Akira didn't waste another second and walked into the bar, mentally steeling himself for the task ahead. As he walked in a very deep voice rang...
?: "WELCOME! WELCOME!"
Akira saw the reporter sitting at the far end of the bar and a man wearing a kimono...wait...
Akira: "Thats...a women...wow..."
?: "How old are ya, boy?"
Akira: "Well..." The boy tried to make up a lie.
Ohya: "Sorry, Lala-chan. He's with me."
Lala: "Ooh, you picked up a real young one this time... just don't let a minor drink alcohol, OK?"
Akira: "Oh boy...here we go."
Arsene: "Good luck."
Ohya: "Go on back there cherry boy.~ I'll treat you to some water!"
Akira: "...Did...she just call m-
Arsene: "Yes."
Akira and Ohya both took a seat at a stall and spoke with each other about the topic at hand. Akira made it clear he needed info on the mafia boss thats running Shibuya, she had the info he needed but...of course she had terms. The phantom thieves...she wanted info on them and the case with Komoshida. She also wanted to know if he could get her in contact with one of Komoshida victims, luckily for Akira he knew someone that fitted that bill. After trading info Akira learned the name of their target, right before he said his goodbyes he gave her Mishima's contact info. Speaking with her wasn't as bad as he thought it would be, it was actually...enjoyable.
After Akira left the bar to meet up with Ryuji but right as he did and relaid the good news they got some...unwanted attention...and Akira thought it would be best to leave it to Ryuji, make like a tree and get the FUCK outta there.
Ryuji: "H-HEY! DUDE! Don't leave me here!"
Scruffy Romantic: "We're gonna eat you up!~"
Akira: "Sorry man I'm too cool for this shit!" Runs off.
Arsene: "You wont be forgotten!" He then flies off.
Morgana: "Bye Ryuji!~"
Zorro: "Fallen warrior I honor you!"
Captain Kidd: "Ughh... lad...I'm gonna...leave ya alone for a while..." Vanishes.
Ryuji: : "N-N-NOOO! Captain Kidd wait! AKIRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!"
That night...a lone skull cried out...and was suddenly silenced.
( Back at the attic. )
Morgana: "You think it was a bit harsh to just leave him there?" The black cat asked pawing at his ear.
Akira: "Eh he'll be fine. Think of it as payment for making this whole info trip way more of a hassle for me." The boy said as he laid on his back.
Akira: "If ya ask me I feel more bad for Mishima. Dude thinks I set him up on a date. Poor bastard hehehehehe..."
( Back to reality )
Akira opened his eyes once more only to be met with the ceiling again...snapped out of his memories.
Akira: "..." Although the boy was silent his heart was racing cause he knew exactly where his memories would take him next...
They would take him to the times where Ichiko would slowly claw her way into his mind and heart. How she did it still kinda puzzles him but...he doesn't really care...after that day they exchanged infor...he honestly thought that would be their last encounter...but..it was just one of many. Eventually they formed a social link together, her arcana was the devil...fitting. At first he did it just for the articles she made on the phantom thieves, It really help take the pressure of him and the team when it came to not raising to much alarm in palaces. However...around rank 3 his opinion of her changed, she wasn't like most reporters. She wasn't a scoop hungry scavenger or some prick that would write shit without thinking about proof or good intel. She was serious about her job, she was honest. She could also be kinda scary sometimes...drunk or sober, but if he had to choose...he would prefer her drunk.
Around Rank 4 things actually started to get fun, when her chief was hounding her, I honestly did not expect that pretend boyfriend act. Not only did I not see that coming, her and the chief didn't expect him to play along. Ohya was really impressed with his acting skills, Akira was always good at acting. Why else would he have gotten the lead role in so many plays back at his previous school.
Rank 5 Ohya just apologized to him for digging into his past, to be honest it pissed him off. However what she said next made him get over it. She said he's not the only one with the issue of being labeled. If he had to guess...that would be because of her incident, the incident he still knew nothing about. She was about to tell him but stopped herself when she mentioned something about avenging her partner. However Lala-chan made Ohya fess up for invading the boy's privacy, Ohya wasn't so thrilled about it but, Lala-Chan much like Akira has a way with words. Ohya revealed the truth about the incident, he learned about her partner Kayo Murakami from when Ohya still covered politics. They were a pretty well-known team in the industry. They blew the lids off countless scandals together...that is, until that one day...
They were on the trail of a certain bureaucrat, who was involved in a slush fund to support refugees. Apparently the guy was well guarded, so it was almost impossible to get any solid leads on him. Then...one night, Ohya got a voicemail from Kayo saying she had gotten hold of something big but...that was the last time Ohya ever heard from her. The next day, that bureaucrat was found dead at a love hotel and Kayo had gone missing. The cause of death was unknown, the authorities couldn't tell wether it was a murder or a suicide. As for the killer...
The police accused Kayo. According to them, she killed him in a crime of passion. Needless to say Ohya was pretty upset at this part.
Ohya: "That's impossible though! She NEVER would have slept with a disgusting man like that!" She growled.
Ohya: "And more importantly, it's pretty damn FUCKED UP to make allegations like that without any evidence!"
Akira could feel hate, anger and frustration in her voice, she really cared for Kayo...It kinda reminded him of how Ann felt for Shiho. After Ohya calmed down, she told Akira that the case was closed, but they never found the truth... and Kayo was labeled a professional disgrace. That part annoyed Akira to no end and given his history it's pretty obvious why. After the whole incident Ohya was moved to another department. She vowed she'd prove Kayo's innocence, thats what her private investigation was.
He...really felt for her. It must have been horrible...having someone who you cared for with all your heart suddenly disappears and is labeled as a criminal even though there's no real proof? Ohya was a loyal person, she'd never give up on the people she cared about. The way she talked about the unfairness of Kayo's case...that pained voice...it was like she herself was the one being accused of murder. She even blamed herself for what happened to Kayo. It went without saying his view on Ohya had COMPELETLY changed, not only did she love her job and did it right, she was also a good friend.
After that day...Akira started to feel strange when he was with Ohya...he couldn't really explain it. His heart would race, his cheeks would burn, and he would feel anxious whenever she would look at him or smile at him. He...didn't understand it...he never acted this way around anyone else he knew. It didn't matter who it was, he was always calm and collected no matter what. So why...why only did this happen with her, why did he act like such a fool. It bugged the hell outta him honestly, so he tried keep some distance between him and her but...he just couldn't stay away. He...just wanted to hear her voice, help her out, cheer her up...just be there for her.
So when all that craziness with her Chief started, he wanted to do ANYTHING in his power to help her. Seeing her so exhausted, defeated and down...and It was ALL that assholes fault?
Akira: "Not if I can help it."
Ohya didn't deserve this bullshit. Not only did this asshat triple her quota so she couldn't find the truth about Kayo, her partner, her BEST friend AND cut off Ohya's connections so she couldn't find her after all this time, he finds the NERVE to insult Kayo and everything Ohya believes in to her face?! No FUCKING way! He'd wipe that smug prick smile off his face! There was only one thing to do...
Akira: "Ohya...tell me your Chief's full name."
Ohya: "Why? You gonna try to find his weakness?" The woman cocked her head.
Ohya: "His name is Shinpei Honjo."
Shinpai Honjo huh?...Okay thats all he needed to know. The next day he didn't waste ANY time at all, he had the team plunge right into momentos in search of chief mc douchebag. Futaba could wait. When they did find him, everything he said made Joker even more pissed then he already was.
Joker: "Free Ichiko!"
Honjo: "It'd be better for the organization if we didn't have rebels like her around!"
Joker: "Really now?"
Joker: "Hey guys! Give me some room. I'll handle this on my own."
Mona: "Are you sure Joker?! He might be stronger then he looks!"
Queen: "Mona's right Joker. We should fight as a team an-
Joker: "I SAID. I'll handle this on my own. I'm the leader here and I call the shots. GET IT?" The boy said in a dark tone as he casted a glare at his team that sent chills down their spines."
Joker: "Stand back and watch. I got this." Cracking his joints he stepped up to the shadow.
Joker: "PEEEEEEERSONAAA!"
( One horrible beat down later. )
Joker: "And thats how we do it wild card style." *Spits*
Joker: "Loser."
Honjo: "Aghh..."
Joker: "Now return to yourself in reality and get off Ichiko's ass. Reduce her quota, apologize to her, and help her with her investigation! In that order! Understand?!" Points gun at him.
Honjo: " Y-Y-YES SIR!"
Joker: "Good. Now get outta my sight before I have Nue and Yaksini peel your dick like a banana." He threaten.
The shadow nodded and vanished in a bright light and left a treasure bud behind. After snatching it up, he walked over to his teammates.
Joker: "Alright guys thats all. Lets go home."
Panther: "..."
Skull: "..."
Fox: "..."
Queen: "..."
Mona: "..."
Joker: "...What?"
Mona: "Uggh...Joker...are you...okay?"
Joker: "Fine. Why do you ask?" He said calmly.
Mona: "N-nevermind...lets go."
Akira met up with Ohya again three days after, and as expected he was met with good news. She explained the details of her Chiefs change of heart and letting up on her to pressure Kayo's case. Speaking of Kayo...Ohya found her, she's alive but...is now in a mental hospital. It would explain why she's been out of contact for so long. Ohya really wanted to go see her but...she was kind of afraid to see what kinda state her long lost friend was in. He offered to go with her, but the place was kinda far away. Not that he cared about that really, but he didn't want to pressure her. Ohya had already come this far, she wasn't about to turn tail now. She was going to see this through to the end.
Ohya: "Otherwise I wouldn't be Ichiko Ohya, journalist extraordinaire!" She cheered.
Theres the spirit and passion he loved so much! wait...love?
Ohya: "*Chuckle* I'm really glad I talked to you about this. I never would've made my mind up without your help." She beamed her trade mark smile at him.
Akira's heart raced and his cheeks heated up, oh jeez that weird feeling again...
Ohya: "Ya know, you're way more than just some high school kid. You're almost like my guidance counselor."
Akira: "...Hehehehe...your welcome." He turned his head trying to hide his blush.
Akira was anxious about their next encounter. He was excited and afraid to hear about Kayo's condition...he hoped it wasn't anything...extreme. The next night Ohya texted him asking him to come over to crossroads. As he entered and sat down...Ohya was quiet for a few seconds, then spoke up.
Ohya: "I went to see Kayo the other day."
Ohya explained Kayo's condition...she had a mental shutdown...
Akira: "God this mental shutdown shit again..." He cursed under his breath.
Kayo had been at that hospital for about a year now and well...her condition isn't getting any better. Chances of recovery...are pretty bleak. Akira really felt for Ohya...he's very sure she's happy to know her friend is alive but...just seeing her in that kinda state with little to no chance of recovery? The pain, sorrow, regret, and frustration she must feel, he could only imagine. However Kayo is still a suspect, so bringing her back would just put her in danger again. How ever...the truth about what happened back then isn't completely lost. Ohya got Kayo's hair clip, according to Ohya its got a miniature camera built inside. That voice mail Kayo sent ohya where she said she had something big, well its all in the hair clip.
It was a picture of the bureaucrat's secret meeting. The other party must be the one behind the slush fund. And that other party...It was one of Shido's confidants.
Akira: "Shido...where have I heard that name before?.." He mumbled.
Lala-chan: "Shido? You mean the politician? I can't believe someone close to him could be so horrible..."
Ohya: "Yup. Its pretty clear that confidant was blackmailing the bureaucrat, and killed him for not paying up."
Ohya: "Kayo must have managed to escape, but then ended up suffering a mental shutdown somehow.."
Akira: "..." The boy frowned.
He honestly hoped it wasn't true but now he's even more convinced. Theres IS a criminal using the metaverse to commit crimes, and that means we have to stop him. So there arent anymore victims like Kayo.
Although even with the picture from the hair clip, Ohya is still gonna have one hell of a time proving Kayo's innocence. She still needed proof and to set up few other things as well, so long story short she has a loooong battle until she's fully prepared to do this. She didn't care though, she was going to do anything to bring the truth to light and avenge her friends honor. Nothing could stop her now.
Ohya: "Well then, our deal is over. It'll be too dangerous for you to stick around from here onward."
Ohya: "You understand, right? The opposition won't think twice about taking down anyone in their way." She spoke in a serious tone.
Ohya: "I'm sure I'll get targeted...so to be safe, you shouldn't come here again."
Akira: "I can't leave you. Not after all this." He spoke with a stern voice.
Ohya couldn't help but blush.
Ohya: "W-wow, that's mature of you..." She then sighed.
Ohya: "Honestly, I appreciate the concern but it's really not that simple."
Lala-chan: "Geez...you're really never honest with yourself, Ichiko-chan."
Lala-chan: "You're not gonna find anyone else who listens to you as encouragingly as this guy. You know that, right?"
Lala-chan: "It's gonna be a long battle against a tough enemy. You should have him by your side through it."
Ohya: "W-wait, it's not like that...!"
Akira: "Respect Lala-chan..." He thought to himself.
Lala-chan: "Uh-huh, sure. And what about you, kid? You're not afraid to face the danger ahead, are you?"
Akira: "Afraid is not in my vocabulary." He said pushing up his glasses.
Ohya: "Fine. If you're sticking your nose in this on your own free will, then there's nothing I can do. I'll solve this case on my own..but I appreciate having a friend who's got my back." Her smile had returned.
Ohya: "All right then, let's have a kickoff party! I'm gonna pour some Dom Perignon, just for you!"
Lala-chan: "We don't carry that...There's some generic stuff in the back though...Oh, and I'll grab an oolong tea for the kid."
Ohya: "Mannm...Lamest kickoff party ever!...I guess the booze doesn't matter though. It's all about the company!" She said resting her chin on her hand.
After Lala-chan left to chill a bottle, Akira and Ohya were left alone. And to be honest Akira was...nervous...they both sat in silence until Ohya spoke up.
Ohya: "Hey, so...why do you do so much for me?"
Akira: "ughh.." His words were stuck in his throat.
Ohya: "I know at first it was for the articles, but you don't have any obligation to stay now, ya know."
Akira: "Y-Yeah I know..." Akira's eternal poker face was cracking.
A playful smirk then creep up on Ohya face.
Ohya: "Ohhh, I know.~ Did you take me seriously when I told the chief we were a couple." She teased.
Akira's face turned bright red and he quickly turned his head away from her, not wanting her to see his weakness. He didn't want to admit it but...yes. He honestly did take it seriously...he just never realized until now...as he spent time with her he secretly wished the whole couple act to be true...he wanted it to be true so bad and yet...he himself didn't even realize it. And yet she pieced it together just like that...Akira couldn't deny it...he was NO MATCH for this woman...
Ohya: "*Giggle!* Geez, you kids today are so naive!" She laughed.
God not only did she read him like a children's book, she's laughing at him now?! Oh no, that was it. This whole embarrassed little kid act was not his style. He would shatter that composure of hers! He'd show that he was the one in control here!
Ohya: "So...that couple act..."
Mustering up all the courage in his heart, he turned back to face her. He look her right in the eyes and said...
Akira: "I took it seriously." He said in a sharp tone.
Ohya: "...Huh?!" Her teasing smile was suddenly replaced with a shocked expression.
Ohya: "Th-then... wait. You really thought we were dating?" A faint blush appeared on her face.
Ohya: "What the hell!?" She completely caught off guard.
Ohya: "I-I mean, um... seriously?"
Akira smiled internally. He had finally put a crack in the mask of hers, he couldn't stop now. He'd strike while the iron was hot. He took off his glasses and gave her a very passionate stare.
Akira: "I love you, Ichiko." He said in a soft voice.
Ohya: "Urgh, y-you shouldn't be so straightforward...!" She groaned.
Ohya: "B-but, I... um... I..." She tripped over her own words.
Ohya: "What I'm trying to say is..."
Here it comes, Akira thought. The rejection...true Akira did have feelings for her but...she was out of his league. Not only that, there was also the age gap. He was only 16, she was in her twenties. Not only that he was still in high school! An adult woman like her...needs a man...not a kid. It tugged at his heart quite a bit...I mean this was the first time he had ever been in love. Ichiko Ohya...Akira's first ever love...and he couldn't even be with her. He would get over it...in time...right now she's just thinking of a way to let him down gently. It was still gonna hurt anyways but..Akira was no stranger to pain, either it be physical or emotional. He simply waited for her rejection.
Ohya: "I think the feelings are... mutual."
Akira: "Yeah just like I thoug-...wait...what?" Akira said in his head.
Ohya: "Wait, you said it so casually..."
Ohya: "If you're this smooth now, who knows how big of a player you're gonna be when you get a little older! You're gonna dump me, huh?!"
Akira: "W-w-wha?"
Ohya: "...Just kidding." Her face and tone went back to normal.
Ohya: "I'd understand if you decided to dump me someday though. I mean, you have a bright future ahead of you... so I'd probably just be holding you back."
Akira: "Ahh.."
Ohya: "..."
Ohya: "But I guess I can stick around until then...I-I can't wait to see where our relationship goes, Akira." She gave him a warm smile.
Akira: "...WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT!?" The boy screamed in his head.
Nekomata: "OW! Hey! We can all hear you in here ya know?!" The neko complained.
Akira: "Sorry.."
Ohya: "Something wrong?"
Akira: "Nothing!"
Akira left the bar rather quickly after that. Neither Akira or Ichiko got any sleep that following night...they just couldn't stop thinking about each other...
Their next encounter lead them to the sky tower. It was the place where Ichiko convinced Kayo to be her partner, so this place means alot to her. After telling him about her special expose on the Phantom Thieves and her preparations to write a story on Shido confidant to prove Kayo's innocence...she...busted him on being a Phantom Thief. But she had no intention of revealing his true identity thank god. She believes in the Phantom Thieves now, because she knows we both have the same objective. Exposing the ills of society and bringing injustices to light, so why not fight those evils together?
Ichiko: "...If it weren't for you I never would have been able to return to my journalist self."
Ichiko: "My high schooler source who manipulated information ended up manipulating my heart too...I'm gonna return the favor one of these days, all right?"
Ichiko: " And someday, Let's go tell Kayo it's all over... together." She smiled.
Akira couldn't help but smile.
Akira: "Right together." Akira could sense the strong bond with Ichiko.
A familiar voice then rang inside his head.
"I am thou, thou art I...Thou has turned a vow...Ughh...you know what? We've gone through this like 4 times already I think you get the Idea Akira. So bla bla bla wings of rebellion, bla bla bla ultimate secret of the devil, bla bla bla infinite power, bla bla bla you've forged a bond that can never be broken, bla bla you can fuse Beelzebub now. BYE."
Akira: "Sheesh someone doesn't like their job..." The boy thought.
Ichiko: "So... what do you wanna do after this? Let's go someplace I can have fun with a minor... Like, maybe an amusement park...? Or..." She trailed off.
Akira: "Your place sounds nice." He smirked.
Ichiko: "Geez... You're so forward." She blushed.
Ichiko: "...I was just about to suggest that though!" She beamed eagerness.
Ichiko: "I'm not a very good cook, but I'll make you something..."
Akira: " Ughh..."
Ichiko: "Wh-what's with the shocked look?! Even a journalist cooks at home from time to time!"
Ichiko: "I just want to... relax with you...Eat some delicious food, have some dessert, lie around...?
Akira: "And after all that?" He teased.
Ichiko: "After that?...well that's... up to you." She blushed heavily.
Akira couldn't help but blush at that last part.
Ichiko: "Shall we go?" She held out her hand.
Akira: "Lead the way Ichiko-chan.~" He took her hand.
It didn't take too long to reach her apartment, her place wasn't too big or too small. It was an decent looking place at best, at least it wasn't run down looking. Her apartment was kinda messy too but he was kinda expecting that.
Akira: "Nice place you got here." He complimented
Ichiko: "Surprised? Bet you were thinking to see some crappy apartment huh?~" She winked.
Akira: "Well...a seriously you ever heard of spring cleaning?"
Ichiko: "Hey for you're information, I've been REALLY busy lately!" She pouted.
Akira: "Oh really? So this place doesn't normally have clothes, balled up paper, and empty bottles every wear?" He crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow.
Ichiko: "Are you calling me a slob?" She gave a very unamused look.
Akira: "Hey you said it. Not me." He said adjusting his glasses.
Leanan Sidhe: "Such rudeness. Akira, that is not how you speak to a lady."
Ichiko: "uhh huh...why don't you take a seat smartass, while I make us something." She scuffed as she walked off into the kitchen area.
Akira looks around the messy apartment...
Nue: "Me no see what big deal is...me think it look good."
Akira: "*Sigh*...might was well clean up..." The boy sighed.
Morgana: "Don't expect me to help." Said the cat as he poped his head out of Akira's bag.
Akira: "Huh? Oh yeah I forgot you were with me..." Akira scratched the back of his head.
Morgana: "You wound me Akira..." He pouted.
( an hour later. )
Ichiko: "Heeeey~ Foods rea-huh?" Looks around to see her living room is completely clean.
Ichiko: "Holy crap! Its clean!"
She was amazed at how clean it looked! It looks like when she first moved in!
Akira: "Yeah, your welcome." Spoke the boy as he got up from the couch.
Ichiko: "Wow! You cleaned this!?" She exclaimed surprised.
Akira: "Well it was obvious you weren't." He gave her a smug smirk.
Arsene: "You really are rude..."
Ichiko: "You know, I could just not feed you." She crossed her arms.
Akira: "Jeez, pissy much?"
Ichiko: "Yes, but isn't that what you love about me?~" She cooed.
Akira: "Well I DO love a woman with attitude. Anyway whats on the menu?"
Ichiko: "Fried rice!"
Akira: "Wow you really aren't that good of a cook."
Ichiko then kicked the boy in the shin...HARD.
Akira: "ARGH!" The boy cringed and gritted his teeth as he held his shin in pain.
Ichiko: "Whine like a bitch, you get hit like a bitch." She smiled.
Akira: "Okay point taken..."
Lamia: "Hahahaha! Akira, your a bitch!"
Leanan Sidhe: "Maybe that will teach you some manners."
Ichiko: "Good boy.~" She patted his head.
Ichiko: "Now come and enjoy the food I made EVER soooooo LOVINGLY for you.~"
Akira sat down and enjoyed the meal Ichiko had prepared for him. He didn't gag on it, that alone was huge surprise. And not only that, it honestly didn't taste too bad either. After he finished, they both had some dessert.
Akira: "MMM! How did you know I loved flan?"
Ichiko: "I didn't...but now I do!~" She said, twiddling her spoon.
Ichiko: "Isn't it sweet!?"
Akira: "Yeah it is but..." He trailed off.
Ichiko: "Buuuut what?"
Akira: "Its not as sweet as you.~" He cooed.
( BGM: Disgaea 4: Sepia-colored dream plays. )
Ichiko's cheeks glowed red.
Ichiko: "*Giggle!* Ya know, flattering will get you nowhere with me." She winked.
Akira: "Oh we'll see about that Ichi-chan.~" He teased.
Ichiko: "Hehehe! I didn't know we were doing nicknames now!"
Ichiko: "Now I need to give you one.~"
Akira: "I would cherish any nickname from you."
Ichiko: "Awww..how sweet of you...my cher chou.~" ( Translation: Dear sweet. )
Akira: "Hahahaha! Wow! you speak French!?" The boy was taken back.
Arsene: "Ahhh...French, the language of romance.~ This woman has class."
Ichiko: "Que je le fasse, chérie.~" ( Translation: That I do, darling. )
Akira: "Didn't think it was possible...but somehow you just keep getting more and more amazing."
Ichiko: "Well in my line of work its good to know a few other languages."
Akira: "I can see that...Mi rosa escarlata.~" ( Translation: My scarlet rose. )
Ichiko: "My scarlet rose huh? Look at you being all romantic.~"
The two went back and forth with each other for a while, until Ichiko suggested they sat down for movies.
Akira: "So what kinda movies do you have?"
Ichiko: "Horror."
Akira: "Wow! I didn't take you for the horror type."
Ichiko: "You kidding? Jason, Freddy, Chucky, Michael myers, Ghostface, Jigsaw, Leatherface! I LOOOOVE those guys. They might be from American movies but damn they were good."
Akira: "FINALLY! Someone in this town that gets it!"
Akira: "Seriously, I would KILL to have a persona based off one of those guys..." He mumbled
Ichiko: "Perso-what?"
Akira: "Nothing!"
They two spent a few hours just watching a bunch of old horror movies Ichiko had lying around. Akira had his arm around her waist, and she snuggled closer to him resting her her head on his shoulder. Both Akira and Ichiko had completely lost track of time, It was like they were in their own little world. Until Akira checked the time on his phone...
Akira: "Geez 10:30?" He frowned, taking his arm off his lover.
Ichiko: "Oh really? Damn...well time does fly...I guess your gonna head back home huh?"
Akira: "Yeah...I guess..." He sighed while getting off the couch.
Ichiko's face then dropped.
Ichiko: "Heh...okay then, see ya Aki...goodnight..." She said dishearteningly.
Akira: "ugh..." The boy hung his head.
Akira could just see the sad and disappointed look on her face...she didn't want this to be over just yet...and to be honest, neither did he but...Sojiro would be pissed if I didn't come back at all.
Arsene: "Come now Akira, Is there really a choice here?"
Akira: "..."
Arsene: "Why deny both her and yourself? This is your first night together as lovers, so this night is special to her. As to you too I would hope. She...just want to spend more time with you, I'm sure you do too."
Akira: "..."
?: "Stop this Akira...your not the one to falter are you? You do whatever your desires without hesitation or regret. You want to stay with her yes? I KNOW you do..and she wants you to stay as well...so there should be no issues here. Who are you going to please? Your love? Or a grumpy old man? Oh and don't answer that...I already know the answer...I mean...I AM the TRUE you after all..."
Akira: "You know what? Yeah your right. Thanks...old friend..." He spoke in his thoughts.
Ichiko: "Ugh...arent you..gonna leave?"
Akira: "Nah." He said as he casually sat back down next to her.
Ichiko: "Huh?! A-are you sure? Don't you have to go back ho-
Akira: "I'm sure my guardian wont mind." He smiled.
Ichiko: "Listen Aki...I understand your position okay? I don't want to get you into trouble over me." She looked away from him.
Akira then cupped her cheek and turned her face to face him.
Akira: "Listen Ichiko...I'll be okay alright? I'm not forcing myself okay? I want this...I love you Ichiko Ohya...and want to show you how much I love you."
Ichiko: "Aki..." She closed her eyes and pursed her lips.
Akira then closed his eyes and leaned in...the moment their lips met, they both felt a warm pulse through out their bodies. They both melted into each others lips, both in complete harmony. Everything else in the world just seemed to vanish all around them...this was THEIR moment and theirs only. Nothing would ruin this moment. For what seemed like an eternity in their own personal world...the kiss ended. As their lips parted a thing strand of silva connected them. They both stared into each others eyes in silence...they gazed into each others eyes passionately...almost as if their staring right to the others soul.
Arsene: "HAHAHAHAHAHA! Outstanding Akira! You TRUELY are a gentleman thief! Stealing the heart of such a magnificent woman! I've stolen the hearts of many women in my time...but none were quite like this one. My hat is off to you Akira." Arsene clapped his hands in joy.
?: "Follow your heart...live how you wish...walk whatever path you choose...that IS your right Akira. Let NO ONE tell you otherwise..."
Akira: "Wow...that was..." He trailed of blushing.
Ichiko: "Bitching.~"
Akira: "Heh, my thoughts exactly." He then put his arm around her shoulder.
Ichiko: "Soooo...what should we do now...?" She asked blushing
Akira: "Hmmm...how big is your futon?" He gave a very seductive smile.
Ichiko: "Pretty big.~ Why? Just what are you getting at?~" She said in a playful tone.
Akira wasted no time standing up and picking Ichiko up like a princess.
Akira: "Wanna find out?"
Ichiko: "Wait don't you have school?"
Akira: "Tomorrow's sunday." He smiled.
Ichiko: "Lucky me!~" She cheered.
Akira then carried her to her bed room and shut the door behind him. And well...lets just say that was a night neither Akira nor Ichiko will forget.
( Back to reality )
Akira opened his eyes fully this time, completely snapped out of his memories. He simply stared at the ceiling of his room.
Akira: "...Hehehehe!"
Morgana: "Your thinking about her again are you?"
Akira: "Huh?" The boy then looked down to see Morgana sitting on his lap, looking up at him.
Morgana: "I swear that woman is all you think about." Sighed the cat.
Akira: "Not true." He pouted.
Morgana: "Oh please, theres not one second when she's not on your mind."
Akira: "Oh your just jealous." He smirked.
Morgana: "WHY would I ever be jealous of you?"
Akira: "Simple...becuase unlike you I can actually BE with the one I love."
Morgana: "..."
*Critcal damage!*
Kushinada: "Ooooooooooooooooooooohhhh...you want some Ice for that burn?"
Hariti: "Or do you need me to cast Baisudi on you?"
Arsene: "Akira...maybe that was a bit too harsh..."
Akira: "Yeah Yeah I'm sorry." He rolled his eyes.
Morgana: "Joker...you just drew blood...I WONT forget this...you'll get yours one day." The cat threatened.
Akira: "Hehehe...yeah sure. I'm scared shitl-
Pi-Pi-Pi-Pi!
Akira: "Hmm?" Checks his messages.
( Ichiko: Heeeeey!~ 3 )
( Akira: Hey babe! )
( Ichiko: Hey I have some free time on my hands and I'm kinda close by! Mind if I pay you a visit huh my cher chou?~ ;D )
( Akira: Your welcomed ANY time amante.~ ) ( Translation: Lover )
( Ichiko: Yay! Be there in two shakes! Love ya!~)
Akira: "Hehehehe..."
Morgana: "*Sigh*...She's coming over isnt she?"
Akira: "Yes. Meaning no crap from you."
Morgana: "Oh don't worry about that. If things are going to go the way I think they are I'm just gonna leave the cafe for a while."
Akira: "What do you mean by that?"
Morgana: "Oh you know EXACTLY what I mean."
( Flash back to their first night )
Akira had just carried Ichiko into her room and shut the door. Morgana then crawled out Akira's bag and hopped onto the couch.
Morgana: "Finally...well looks like they'll be in there for the rest of the night."
Morgana then got comfortable on the couch and tried to drift of to sleep...but heard noises...moans...and grunts coming from the bedroom.
Morgana: "Huh?" The cat perked up his ears to listen carefully."
Ichiko: AH! AH! HA! RIGHT THERE! RIGHT! ! HARDER FASTER! DON'T STOP! AGH! OH YEAH!
Akira: "ARGH! RAGH! HAA! WOOHO! Per!...SONAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!
The entire apartment shook at bright beams of blue light shot from the cracks of the bedroom door. Poor Morgana shook and trembled, startled half to death.
( Back to reality )
Akira: "Hehehehehehe...My bad Mona..."
Morgana: "Oh really? Tell that to my poor heart."
Akira: "Hey Morgana..." His smug tone dropped.
Morgana: "Hmmm...you look serious...whats wrong?"
Akira: "I'm...thinking about telling Ichiko the truth."
Morgana: "Ughh...Akira? Doesnt she already KNOW your a Phantom Thief?"
Akira: "No I mean the WHOLE truth. Our personas, shadows, the palaces, stealing hearts thing, the metaverse...all of it."
Morgana: "...Akira...listen. You know the chances of her believing all that is 00000.1 percent? I mean really...if you told that story to anyone else, they would be more likely to believe you suffered a recent head injury."
Akira: "...*Sigh*...I know...Morgana..." He said as head threw head back.