He gasped for breath as he felt the hand tighten around his throat more, choking the life out of him. Sweat poured down his forehead as he frankly clutched at the hand hoping to bring some relief to his oxygen deprived lungs. As he started to feel light-headed, he closed his eyes and remembered everything up to what was taking place now.
Evan Kawasani walked through the halls of Shujin Academy on a Sunday while the school was closed. He was finding his way through the school so that when he started the next day, he would be able to avoid getting lost. He came across room 2-D which was going to be his classroom come tomorrow. It was going to be a refreshing start to a new life that he hoped would be good. As he made his way back downstairs to the front gate, he received a text message. It was from his boyfriend, Shikora Kawokasi.
"The apartment is all ready for you when you get here."
Evan brushed some of his red hair back out of his face as he read the message. He texted Kawokasi back letting him know that he was on his way home. As Evan rode that train back to Shinjuku he thought back on everything that had happened over the summer break.
Evan hadn't told anyone, except for one person, that the reason he had to change schools was because he came out to his parents, and their way of understanding his feelings towards the same sex was to kick him out of the house. Evan didn't really have a choice in the matter either. What do you tell your parents when they walk in on you and you're dressed in your drag attire? He thought his parents would have been more understanding since he was the only child, but he was wrong.
Evan was broke, out on the street, and worse of all it was a horrible summer. All the schools had gone on summer break, so luckily he wasn't missing out on his education; however, if he did not find somewhere to stay soon he could kiss his education goodbye. He was in and out of shelters trying to find decent work, but never really finding anything that he could stick with. It wasn't that he wasn't capable of doing the job, he was just never given the chance to continue. He was at his wits end and was contemplating if he should just end it all when a car pulled up next to him. The man inside asked him if he was okay or if he needed help. Evan couldn't formulate any words, instead he just broke down and started crying. The man got out of the car and helped the shaking boy into his car and got back into the driver's side. He started driving and told Evan his name was Shikora Kawokasi. Evan thanked the man and told him that his name was Evan Kawasani.
"It's nice to meet you Evan" Kawokasi said as he looked over at the young boy as his tears started to dry and create streaks down his cheeks. "Why were you wondering the streets this late at night? Don't you have anywhere to go?"
Evan wiped his eyes and sighed out before answering Kawokasi. He didn't plan on telling him about his parents, so instead settled on saying, "To be perfectly honest Kawokasi, I'm gay and a loner. I've been jumping from shelter to shelter and trying to find work with no such luck. There were a few nights when I had to sleep on a bench, and it would pour so much that I'm surprised I'm not sick or dead."
Evan's story shocked and saddened Kawokasi greatly. Hearing that someone so young was going through so much on his own. He understood that this was his first time meeting the boy, but he wanted to help him out.
"Evan, I know that we just met, but I can't sit idly by and let a child like yourself live out on the street. If it is okay with you, would you like to come and stay at my place?"
Evan's heart swelled up with emotions as he listened intently to Kawokasi's question. Were his days of living on the street finally done? Was he actually going to be able to continue his education and his life like it used to be? Without even hesitating Evan told Shikora that he would love to stay with him. Evan's response put a smile on Shikora's face as he drove him towards Shinjuku, which was known as the Red Light District, to everyone from that area. Things were starting to look up for Evan, or so he thought. When he walked up to Shikora's apartment, he found that he had the whole second floor to himself. The living room was spacious and took up a majority of the apartment. It had his small dining table, a sofa, a loveseat, a recliner, an entertainment system with a 60 in television, and a few potted plants to give the space some life. There was a small breakfast bar with stools that connected the kitchen to the living room. The kitchen had all the latest appliances in it. Shikora was nice enough to show Evan where the bathroom was and where the guest room was.
The guest room was tiny and was sparse of furniture. There was a closet, a small twin bed, and a night stand. Shikora blushed and apologized letting Evan know that he never had many guests stay over. Evan told him that it was fine and made his way back out to the living room. They made small talk and decided to go out shopping the next day to get Evan some more clothes and everything. There was another door down the hall that was across from the bathroom that Shikora said was his office. He was a producer of some sorts and had all his important information there. The space was bigger than the guest room, so Shikora told Evan that at some point before school started back up that he would switch his office to the smaller room so Evan had a bit more space for his homework and everything.
Evan thought that everything was going to turn around for him for a change. Things with Shikora started to go great for the rest of the winter break. Shikora had contacted the Principal of Shujin Academy and managed to get him enrolled. Not only was Evan going to be able to continue his education, but things between him and Shikora started to get more serious than he was expecting. Apparently, Shikora was bisexual and through the few weeks that Evan had started living there, had started to catch some feelings. Evan told Kawokasi that he preferred to stay in his own room when it was finished so that he had a break away for his work and everything. Kawokasi understood, but during the time that he was getting everything switched around for Evan, took full advantage of having the young man in his bed. Kawokasi no longer saw Evan as a small boy, but as the man that he was.
Things were progressing fine, until Kawokasi started coming home later and later. Evan couldn't seem to wrap his mind around what was going on and whenever he asked Shikora about it, he was brush off the question and relate it back to work saying that they were recording something new. Things escalated one night when Shikora came home smelling like sex and cheap perfume. He crawled into bed with Evan and the minute that the scent hit Evan's nose he questioned Shikora. From that point there was yelling and then a loud smack the echoed through the entire apartment. It was the first time that Shikora had ever laid a hand on Evan, and Evan held onto his pained cheek as he ran to the guest bedroom and locked himself in for the night. Unfortunately, from then on things started to spiral downward. Evan, from the text messages finally got his room, but Shikora was making him pay back the money for the clothes that he had purchased for him, the labor of switching the rooms around for him, pretty much the other necessities that he needed like school supplies and what not.
Evan was dreading being at the apartment and knew that Shikora would be working late but still did not want to be there. One night he stumbled into Crossroads trying to get in out of the rain. As he wiped excess rain off of him he looked up and made eye contact with a drag queen.
"What do you think you are doing here?" questioned the purple hair queen as she took a puff from her cigarette.
"Sorry, I was just looking for a place to keep dry. I didn't know that this was a bar" Evan replied sheepishly. He started to clean up his face grabbing a few napkins as the queen introduced herself as Lala Escargot. Evan looked up to thank her for allowing him to dry off when he heard a loud gasp come from the queen.
"Where did you get that?" Lala-chan questioned while pointing at the shiner that Evan had around his right eye. He raised his hand up as if to shield it from the few patrons that were there as tears started to well up in his eyes. Lala-chan saw this and asked if the boy wanted to go in the back and discuss it. Evan nodded and used the wet napkins to clean up the few tears that had left his eyes.
As soon as they were in the back Lala-chan turned around and saw a very dejected boy looking at the floor. The queen has seen this type of behavior before and once again asked Evan what had happened. Evan took a deep sigh and told Lala-chan everything that had happened. He started with getting kicked out by his parents, living on the streets, getting rescued by Shikora which turned out to be less of a rescue now that things were so miserable at the apartment, and finished off with how Shikora was treating him. His words saddened Lala-chan as well and the queen shook her head before sighing heavily.
"Well if you're looking for work, I could potentially hire you and provide you with some funds; however, you would only be working nights if that works for you?"
Evan started to perk up and told Lala-chan that he could do that and wanted to know when he could start. Lala-chan reached into a draw that was next to her with a mirror and gave Evan some make-up to cover up his shiner.
"How about you start as soon as you cover up that shiner and tell me exactly what happened to make this Shikora fellow make him want to hit you."
Evan nodded and started to cover up his shiner making sure spread the foundation around and blend it in so that he looked as if he wasn't wearing make-up to begin with.
"I don't know if you have heard about this group called the Phantom Thieves, but I saw a post on their forum that was talking about a despicable producer who uses his clients for sex in order for them to get their parts in his movies and shows, and if they don't sleep with him they have no chance of ever finding work in show biz."
Lala-chan barely heard Evan as she watched him masterfully apply the make-up. "I have heard a few of the patrons talking about the phantom thieves, but how does this relate back to Shikora?"
"Well he is a producer and I asked him if the post was about him. He was furious when he read it and threw my phone at me striking me in my face so hard that it left that shiner."
Evan gestured up to where the shiner was and had now been expertly covered by the foundation.
"Evan where did you learn to apply make-up?" Lala-chan questioned completely forgetting what he had originally talking to the boy about. It wasn't that she wasn't truly concerned about him, but she had never seen someone so young that was so accurate about make-up. What piqued her interest even more was that it was a boy who had these skills and not a girl.
"I taught myself when I used to dress in drag" Evan responded handing the foundation back to Lala-chan and smiling. It wasn't usual that someone appreciated his skills with make-up.
Hearing this made Lala-chan perk up as he knew what he was going to have Evan do for work. She told Evan to start going through the drawers and put on more make-up. Lala-chan stepped out and saw that Ohya was sitting at the bar and approached her.
"Hey! I need a favor of you quick" Lala-chan said to the drunk journalist.
"What do you want you snail? You take so long to pour me a glass or booze" Ohya slurred back at her.
Lala-chan rolled her eyes and disregarded the insult, "Ohya I need you to go and grab me some things from my apartment and one of my wigs."
Ohya's eyes perked up as she nodded and went up to Lala's apartment and grabbed the few things that she was requesting. She came back in and sat back in her chair with a surprised Lala looking at her.
"Wow, I didn't think you were actually going to do it" she said as she reached out to grab the items from Ohya, who brought them just out of reach.
"Oh, I didn't do this just out of the kindness of my heart, I did this because you needed them and I need some free drinks so my tab doesn't keep going up; so if you could just make my drinks free for the night, I'm sure I could hand these items over to you for whatever it is you need them for."
Lala agreed and just shook her head as she walked into the back and was surprised to see Evan with a remarkable beautiful look. He looked like a completely different person and was happy to see the items that Lala had brought him. Without even needing to be told by Lala, he threw an outfit together from the items. Once he was done he was standing before Lala in a pink kimono, sandals, and a black wig that reached halfway down the boys back.
"Well you are quite knowledgeable about this. It makes my job a lot easier. How do you feel about performing?" Lala-chan said to Evan as he looked at himself in the mirror happy to have a bit of himself back
"I used to be a part of the drama club and choir at my old school, so I feel pretty good about performing. Is that what you are going to have me do for work?" Evan asked as he looked back at Lala-chan smiling.
"That is my intentions. I'm thinking that some live performances might get this play on the map for more than just the few patrons that we have here in Shinjuki."
Evan smiled and told Lala-chan that it was a deal before heading out. Evan couldn't believe his luck with finding Lala-chan. Finally, someone who understood him and would be able to help him, not to mention a safe haven away from the abuse at home.
"Two more things hunny" Lala started, "first, you have to keep those items here since they are mine. You can use them while you are working until you are able to afford your own stuff. Second, what is your drag name so I call you the correct name because it would be weird for my patrons if I referred to you as Evan while in drag."
"It's Sheeva" Evan replied as he started to blush never telling anyone the drag name he had gave himself.
"Well that's different" Lala-chan chuckled as he went back out front to the bar.
Evan followed and found a little area off to the side that looked like a stage. He got up there and found a microphone and a microphone stand off to the far side of the small stage He did a sound check and made sure that everything was working before he started to sing. His voice filled the bar causing the few patrons there to turn and look with interest. Ohya stopped sipping on her drink and looked over at Evan studying him and realizing he was wearing the items that Lala-chan had her go get.
"What's with the kid?" Ohya slurred out spilling a little of her drink as she set it down.
"He came here looking for work and told me that he is a drag queen. If you want to ever talk to him you can call him Evan, or if he is performing you can call him Sheeva" Lala-chan said sternly as she wiped up the excess liquor from the bar top.
Ohya watched Evan perform and soon found herself getting lost in his voice that she never heard her phone go off. It was Lala-chan who pointed it out to her who was also starting to get caught up in Evan's performance realizing that she nabbed herself a good one with this boy. She could tell that before long word was going to spread about Evan's performance. Sure, it was just his first one, but she knew her regulars well and they were quite the chatty Kathy's.
Ohya gave a little excited squeal as she put her phone down and causing Lala to come back to reality.
"What are you so excited about?" the queen asked the sloshed journalist.
"That high schooler from the academy is coming by to discuss something about the Phantom Thieves. This is going to be a good night so you should pour me another drink" Ohya excitedly said.
Lala-chan sighed and poured her another drink before going back to her other duties. Evan performed a few more times before he realized how late it was getting. He thanked the few people who were still there for listening to him and made his way over to his new boss.
"Is it okay if I call it a night Lala-chan? I have to go to my new school tomorrow and look around so that I'm not too lost on my first day."
"Sure thing Sheeva hunny, just put your items back and I will have your payment ready for you when you get out here" Lala-chan said as she smiled and made her way over to the register.
Evan smiled as he made his way towards the back and got changed back into his usually clothes. He made his way back to the front and was greeted by Lala-chan and was given 4800 yen. Evan thank Lala-chan and was heading out when he bumped into someone he had never seen before. He apologized and continued back to the apartment when he found Shikora sitting on the couch waiting for him. The minute he closed the door, Kawokasi was all over him hammering him with questions. Evan tried to ignore him and make his way to the guest bedroom, but was unable to get the door closed in time before Kawokasi was practically was on top of him.
"I smell smoke on you, where the fuck were you?" He said as he pushed Evan up against a wall.
"If you must know I got a job and it's not a smoke free establishment" Evan croaked out as his fear started to set in again.
"Oh good, so that means you're going to start paying me back then huh?" Shikora said with a smile as he reached into Evan's pocket and took out 2500 of the 3500 yen.
Evan couldn't look Shikora in the face as he took money out of his pocket. He knew this was how it was going to be, and maybe now he would stop putting his hands on him.
"Such a good boyfriend bringing home money" Shikora said as he gave Evan a kiss on the cheek causing a pain in his stomach. Once Shikora had left the room, Evan undressed and curled up into bed praying that school would start up tomorrow instead of a day from now. Along with that, he also prayed that his time at school and at work would allow him to stay away from the house for as long as he could.
Evan walked back into the apartment and had a moment of relief when he found that Kawokasi was not there. He went to his room that had a note from his distant boyfriend that had the total amount of his so-called services for switching his room around to this new room. Evan crumpled up the paper and threw it out before pulling out his Shujin academy clothes and climbing into bed. He figured he might as well get in bed now and get a good night's sleep before his first day at his new school.
Evan woke up to the sound of his alarm clock. He groggily rolled over and turned it off before climbing out of bed and getting ready for school. He made sure to get his uniform on before he went into the bathroom and started applying make-up to cover up his shiner. Last thing he really wanted was for someone to see it and start asking him about it like Lala-chan did. He was happy that Lala-chan saw it though so that he could finally get all of that off his chest. Not to mention, it landed him a job at her bar. Lala-chan had texted him yesterday and told him that he could work Monday through Friday and take the weekend for himself. From what he was told from Lala-chan, it wouldn't be good if it didn't give himself any down time to work on things other than work and school.
Evan finished getting ready and was greeted in the kitchen by a half-dressed Kawokasi. He didn't even bother making eye-contact with him as he poured himself a bowl of cereal and ate it. Kawokasi on the other hand walked up behind Evan and gave him a kiss on the cheek wishing him luck on his first day at his new school. The show of affection shocked Evan considering the last week and a half had been nothing but physical and emotional abuse. Before Evan could turn around to say anything, Shikora was already down the hall and in his room finishing getting ready. Evan brushed it off and headed out the door to make his train so that he wasn't late to school.
As he made his way up to the second floor of Shujin Academy, Evan found himself lost in a sea of students. He didn't know that so many people attended this Academy and reluctantly found his classroom. When he entered the first thing he noticed was the pained look the teacher gave him before introducing him to the class. The only available seat was behind a timid looking kid with grayish eyes and black hair. Evan sat down quickly as to try and avoid the many eyes that were on him, but he had no such luck. The boy in front of him turned around and smiled at him introducing himself.
"Hello, my name is Yuuki Mishima. What's yours?"
"My name is Evan Kawasani. It's nice to meet you Mishima" Evan replied back scanning the room and going bug-eyed when his eyes fell onto someone who he recognized. Mishima noticed his expression and followed his eyes to Akira.
"Oh, that's Akira-san, do you know him?" Mishima asked as he smiled and looked back at Evan.
"No, I bumped into him yesterday at work and didn't realize that he went here" Evan replied taking a closer look at Akira and seeing him pull out his phone and engage in a conversation through text.
"Well It's nice to meet you Kawasani-san. If you have any other questions about the skill, I can show you around after class" Mishima finished as he turned back around to face the teacher.
Evan smiled to himself as he too looked up to the front and started listening in on the lector. While he was listening movement out of the corner of his eye caught his attention. It was Akira-san putting his phone back into his pocket and shaking his head. Almost as soon as he did that, he felt the stare from Akira as their eyes connected and Evan quickly reverted his gaze away. He blushed and prayed that the student did not recognize him from the bar. The last thing he needed was someone bringing up his workplace here.
The hours dwindled away as Evan sat and listened to the teachers' lector away about the upcoming trip that the students would be going on. Knowing him, he didn't have the money for such luxuries and wouldn't be accompanying them. The last thing that he wanted to do was ask Shikora if he could help him out with it. Besides there would always be other times that he could venture out and leave Japan.
Evan started putting his books and things into his bag when Mishima approached him. Evan smiled up at Mishima and got out of his seat.
"Do you want me to show you around?" Mishima asked him as they started heading towards the door to exit the classroom.
"Sure, I would love that" Evan said hoping that it wasn't coming off as flirting. He had been accused of flirting even when he never intended on it. It just kind of happened without him noticing. Mishima smiled and started showing him around, starting on the third floor. He walked Evan into the library and introduced him to the student who rented out the books and where he could read or study. He then proceeded to show him the Student Council room that was right next to the library. There wasn't much else except classrooms, so he took him down to the first floor. There tour was going fine until they reached the vending machines in the courtyard. They rounded the corner and were about to walk into the little shaded area when there was a loud slam that caused Evan to flinch and kneel down.
"God Dammit!" an angered blonde boy said as he pulled his fist away from the vending machines.
"Kawasani-san are you okay?" Mishima asked as he knelt to check on the boy.
Evan just knelt there and covered his head as he started to shake a little. The slam reverted him back to his home life where he was being abused. Mishima's voice caused the blonde-haired boy to turn around. When he did, Evan look up to see four pairs of eyes looking at him. Scared Evan jumped up and grabbed his bag. "I gotta get out of here" he exclaimed as he made his way towards the front gate. As he sped away he left Mishima very confused and worried.
"It's not normal for someone to have that reaction" Mishima thought out-loud.
"I don't know, but what they hell were you doing here Mishima" the blonde-hair boy asked him.
"I was just showing the new kid around. Why are you here Ryuji" Mishima asked back not fazed by the aggravated boy.
"None of your business" Ryuji started before looking at the others and saying, "come on Akira-san and Ann. We should continue this talk somewhere else."
Both Ann and Akira nodded as they started walking away, but Mishima was still rather perplexed and worried.
"Hey, Akira-san" He started seeing the taller boy turn around to acknowledge him. "Kawasani-san told me that you saw him at his job yesterday. Could you tell me where that is so I can go and check on him? He seemed pretty scared and frazzled when Ryuji hit the vending machine."
Akira started nervously rubbing his arm as he told Mishima that he bumped into him at Crossroads in the Red Light District. Mishima thank him and went on his way.
"Dude you went back to the Red Light District?" Ryuji asked as he grabbed his bag and started walking towards the front gate.
"What were you doing there?" Ann asked also picking up her bag and walking alongside Ryuji and Akira.
"I went to go and talk to the journalist again. You know, see if she could give me any more intel" Akira responded back as the three of them walked towards the train station on their way to Leblanc.
Mishima went home and changed out of his school clothes before heading to the Red Light District. He didn't want to be stopped and questioned by police or adults, so he needed to make sure he would sort of fit in. After leaving a note with his parents, Mishima made his way to the train station and headed for the Red Light District. Once there he made his way to Crossroads and approached the barista.
Lala-chan looked over and gave a hard sigh causing Ohya to turn around. "Is this another one that you have requested?" She asked Ohya as she shook her head.
"They seem to be popping up like flies" Ohya giggled as she took a sip from her drink. "But this one isn't here for me. I didn't request him."
"Can I help you with anything?" Lala-chan asked as she puffed on her cigarette and eyed the teenager down.
"Um…well…. I.. I'm here because my friend Akira said that Kawasani-san was here, and I thought maybe he worked here and I would be able to find him" Mishima stuttered out before finding his resolve in finding his friend.
"Kawasani-san is in the back getting ready for work. You can talk to him when he comes out, so for now find a seat and let me know if I can get you anything" Lala-chan said as she mentioned to the plethora of empty seats in the bar.
"Thank you" Mishima said as he sat down at a nearby table and started preoccupying himself with his phone. After about half an hour Mishima started to get irritated because there was no sign of Kawasani-san. He was started to get up and leave when he saw someone emerge from the stage. Mishima was completely awestruck by the beauty on the stage. She was dressed in a pink kimono and sandals. Her hair was black and wavy, reaching midway down her back. Those blue eyes that looked out over the crowd looked familiar to Mishima.
Evan had just gotten up on stage and scanned the room to see who was there when his heart dropped. He saw Mishima from school and immediately started to panic a little. 'What if he recognizes me?' Evan thought to himself. Evan shook the thought away and grabbed the microphone.
"Hello Everyone," he addressed the few patrons as they started to face the stage," I hope you all are ready because I'm gonna bring you some tunes you haven't heard in a while!"
With that Evan started to sing Umbrella by Rihanna as he watched Mishima stare at him and swoon. As he continued with the song trying to avert his gaze from Mishima, he got his second shock of the night when he saw Akira, Ann, and Ryuji walk in. This was bad! Four students, three of which were in his class, were now here and he was nervous.
"Man, this is where you work during some of your evenings" Ryuji started complaining as he looked around the bar.
"Oh don't be so rude Ryuji. It's more than you're doing with your nights" Ann kidded with him as she gave him a little nudge.
"You don't know what I do on my free time" Ryuji snapped back at her trying to act tough.
"Sorry, I wasn't aware that video games was something great during someone's free time" Ann sarcastically replied as she rolled her eyes.
It was at that time that Lala-chan turned around and saw all three of them. She started shaking her head and walked over to Akira.
"What are you all doing here? If I get anymore of you in here I'm going to be in trouble" Lala-chan spat out between puffs of her cigarette.
"What do you mean?" Ryuji questioned as he looked the drag queen over. Instead of responding, the queen motioned over to where Mishima was sitting mesmerized by Kawasani's performance. The three of them all looked over and saw him, and then looked up to see a younger queen up on stage performing. She had just finished Umbrella and started up Never Enough from the Greatest Showman. Ann right away picked up on the soft beat and started to walk over to Mishima's table.
Ryuji was frozen in space and unable to take another step. He was unaware that Kawasani was a drag queen and thought that the individual up on stage was a real girl. As she sang out, Lala-chan picked up on Ryuji's face and leaned in close to him and Akira.
"That's my most recent hire. Goes by the name Sheeva if you plan on talking to her after her performance."
"Was that who I ran into yesterday as I was coming in to meet Ohya?" Akira questioned as he continued to watch Evan's performance.
"Yep, he was a lucky fine" Lala-chan finished before walking over to go and entertain some of her regular patrons.
Ryuji missed the last part of Lala-chan's conversation as Sheeva finished yet another song. She switched Never Enough to New Rules by Dua Lipa. Ann pulled Mishima to his feet and started dancing with him causing the poor boy to shade three shades of red. He stood there awkwardly making eye contact with Akira who sat at his table and chuckled. Ryuji sat down next to him.
"Dude do you see the curves on that chick?" Ryuji asked excitedly as he started to rub his hands together hoping it would take away some of the sweat.
Akira looked back over at Sheeva and noticed how tight the kimono was around him and how the form of the attire fit her well. He watched as Ryuji continued gawking and didn't have the heart to tell him that this little crush was nothing more than false because Sheeva was a guy. It was about that time that the song was ending and a flustered Mishima sat back down with a winded Ann.
"You barely…even dance…Mishima" Ann panted out as she relaxed and tried to regain her breath.
"I'm not good at dancing" he said sheepishly and hid his face from everyone feeling his ears start to burn from embarrassment.
"Thank you for listening, I will be back to continue in a little bit" Sheeva said causing everyone to look at her as she left the stage.
"Hey Lala-chan, is there anything you need me to do while I am on break?" Sheeva asked as she approached the bar and grabbed herself a water.
"Well hunny, that entire table over there is here to see you I think" she replied as she pointed at the table where Ann and Ryuji were harassing a very flustered Mishima.
"Okay" Sheeva responded dejectedly and made her way over to their table. Just as Sheeva was making her way over to the table, a very loud and angry man came storming into the bar.
"Where the hell is he!" the voice yelled as he looked around the bar and making eye contact with those familiar blue eyes. He recognized them by the fear that he instilled in them.
"There you are you bitch" he spat out as he walked over and grabbed Sheeva forcefully, "you're coming home with me now. I struck out with the bitch that was auditioning for a spot on a hit tv show and I need someone to take care of me."
Evan tried to pull away and was slapped across the face. The slap echoed around the entire bar. Before anyone had the chance to step in both Sheeva and the man were out the door.
"What the hell was that?" Ryuji asked out loud not expecting an answer from anyone.
"That would be Shikora Kawakasi," Lala-chan started as her eyes followed the door, "He is a famous producer around these parts and it is rumored that he uses the actors and actresses auditioning for different parts for sex. Based off of what he just said, I would have to say that the rumors are most likely true. I just didn't think that the abuse that Kawasani-san told me about was so brutal. I guess it is one thing to hear about it and another thing to actually see it."
"Wait that girl was that kid from earlier?" Ryuji yelled out loud again in disbelief.
"He gets treated like that?" Ann asked softly as she looked down and away from everyone.
"The four of you need to come here right now and I will fill you in, but not a word of this gets back to Kawasani-san. Is that understood?" Lala-chan asked as the four students approached the bar and nodded.
"Evan was kicked out by his parents when they found out that he was gay. The boy has been a apart of different drama club performances so he was very familiar with make-up. After a while, wearing make-up just felt right to him, and then he landed a role that led him to enjoying drag queens. His school was doing a performance of Hairspray and he landed the role of the mother and per the tradition of the production, the mother has been a male dressed up as the mom. One night his parents came home earlier and caught him dressed up in drag. Instead of hearing the boy out, once they knew he was gay, they kicked him to the curb with nothing but the clothes on his back. While the rest of you were probably enjoying your summer breaks, he told me that he was busy moving from shelter to shelter. There were even some nights that he had to sleep out on the street. During one of the many down pours that we had, a car stopped and a man asked him if he needed help. Evan thought that he was finally saved, but something within Kawakasi changed and he became more possessive. He started using his clients and when approached by Evan about it, Evan said that he would get abused. I don't know how the boy still functions and does what he does. He has been through so much, but he still comes to work with a smile on his face and entertains all of us here with his talents."
"So that's why he flinched when you punched the vending machine" Mishima deduced as he looked over at Ryuji.
"Well, how was I supposed to know that this was happening to him?" Ryuji spat back trying to defend himself.
"No need to get hostile," Ann started, "we were all in the dark and he probably wanted to keep it that way since he doesn't really know us."
"Don't take any of it personally hunny. I don't think Evan wants to get too close to anyone because he doesn't want them to get hurt either" Lala-chan added in before looking up at the clock.
"We have to do something about this" Ryuji whispered to Ann and Akira as Lala-chan started to wash her hands off.
"Well it's getting kind of late so I think it would be safest if the four of you started on home" Lala-chan said and smiled at the four students.
Before leaving Ann, Akira and Ryuji all shared a look and nodded before bidding good night to Lala-chan and leaving with Mishima. Later that night Ryuji sent a text to the group chat for the phantom thieves.
We have our next target (Ryuji)
What do you mean? (Makoto)
Yeah didn't we just get done with one. Wouldn't it be good for us to lie low and let things settle down a little? (Yusuke)
This one is urgent (Ann)
Is has to do with one of the new students that we have a Shujin Academy (Ann)
One of our new students?! (Makoto)
I know school just started back up, but did you hear about a new student by the name of Evan? (Ann)
Or have you heard of the last name Kawasani? (Ryuji)
You mean the rising star drag queen at Crossroads? (Futaba)
How do you know that he is a drag queen!? (Ryuji)
If I told it wouldn't be a secret (Futaba)
None the less what about him (Futaba)
Yes, what does he have to do with the Phantom Thieves? (Yusuke)
We witnessed his abusive and controlling boyfriend today at Crossroads (Ann)
The bastard struck Evan in front of everyone and then dragged him out of Crossroads (Ryuji)
Apparently, he is a famous producer who also uses actors and actresses (Ann)
Does he use them for sex? (Futaba)
How did you know that? (Ryuji)
I agree, how did you know? (Yusuke)
I saw a comment on the Phantom Thieves page that said something about a corrupt producer using his clients for sex (Futaba)
If they didn't comply then he would make sure that they couldn't find any other work in show biz (Futaba)
That is horrible! (Makoto)
…However, I am more concerned about our student that was abused. (Makoto)
We should meet up tomorrow and go over this. I can't sit back knowing that one of our student's is in a dangerous situation (Makoto)
I agree (Akira)
Yeah, so are we meeting up at the usual hideout? (Ryuji)
Yes, I will see you all tomorrow (Makoto)
Evan laid there in bed with Kawakasi as he snored away. He cuddled up closer to Evan causing Evan to shake in disgust. 'If only I was stronger' Evan thought to himself as he made his way out of Kawakasi's bed. He walked into the bathroom and looked at his degraded and sweaty body in the mirror. There was a nice bright red mark on his cheek from where Shikora had slapped him. His shiner was still dark, but didn't cover up as much of his eye as it did the other day. At some point Shikora had marked him on his neck as Evan reached up with a shaky hand and touched the disturbing mark. Evan shook his head as he climbed into the shower and washed away the filth that he felt was covering him from his boyfriend.
As he finished up and climbed into bed, he rolled around restlessly. Unbeknownst to him, he was not the only one rolling around restlessly. A very passionate and angry blonde-haired boy rolled around in his bed uncontrollably.
"If he was a guy, why did he look so good dressed up as a woman" Ryuji thought aloud to himself and stared up at his ceiling. "Most importantly," Ryuji started as he looked over at his alarm clock, "why can't I stop thinking about him?"
As Evan woke up the next morning, he went into the bathroom to get ready and realized that he was out of make-up to cover up everything that he had. He also looked at the clock and realized that he wouldn't have enough time to go and get more, so he decided on the lesser of two evils and covered up his black eye. This left the discoloration of his cheek and the hickey on his neck completely exposed. He grabbed his bag and was making his way towards the door.
"Mmmm" Kawakasi groaned as he got out of bed. "Last night was amazing babe" he said in a deep gruff voice as he walked over and hugged the boy from behind. "I hope you enjoyed it just as much as I did."
"I have to go Shikora," Evan stated pulled away from the half-dressed man, "I have to get to school."
"Enjoy your day" Shikora said before disappearing back into his bedroom. Evan shrugged it off and started making his way to the train station so that he could make it to school on time. While he was walking into the school he saw Ann, Akira, and the blonde-haired boy talking. He still hasn't been told his name and he wasn't ever introduced. He kind of didn't really get the chance to formally get introduced to any of them except Mishima, who had given him his tour of the school. He didn't bother waiting around though and headed straight for 2-D and took his seat. Shortly after Mishima came walking in and when he saw Evan, he smiled a little and approached him.
"How are you feeling Kawasani-san? Last night was really rough to watch" Mishima said as he nervously rubbed his arm and averted his eyes from Evan's.
"So you know?" Evan asked softly feeling his emotions well up a little that kids from his school had to see his situation.
"Well to be honest, I had my doubts about you being a girl. I may have only met you yesterday but you have such memorable eyes that I kind of put two and two together. I just wish I could have helped you" Mishima replied as continued to avert his eyes and let his voice trail off.
"It's okay Mishima-san. There isn't much anyone can do for me" Evan said trying to reassure him that everything would be okay. Mishima half smiled and nodded as he took his seat in front of Evan. The two started to discuss where Evan learned to sing as Akira and Ann walked into the room. The two looked over and noticed Evan in class and Ann winced when she saw the mark on Evan's cheek.
"It must have been a hard slap if it's still red today" Ann whispered to Akira as they took their seats. Akira nodded and looked over at Mishima and Evan where they two were smiling and talking. 'Maybe all he needs is some friends to take his mind off things' Akira thought to himself before paying attention to what Kawakami, their teacher, was saying. As classes progressed, Evan started to become bored and started playing games on his phone. He became so engrossed in his game that he lost tract of time, and didn't realize that classes were ending. Evan started packing up his bag and went out into the hallway unable to find any familiar faces. He decided to walk up onto the third floor and check out a book at the library.
Ryuji was making his way down the hall when he passed by the red-head and was frozen in his tracks. He had only seen Evan in drag, so seeing him out of drag was very different. The boy had a small patch of freckles covering his face and bright blue eyes. The same ones that he recognized from the queen who was performing yesterday. As Evan passed him in the hall, Ryuji turned around and saw him go into the library. Ryuji pulled out his phone and texted the group chat telling them that he was going to be a little late to the main infiltration of Shikora's palace. Ryuji was going to take the chance and apologize for his actions the other day, and maybe get some intel on what to look for regarding Shikora's palace.
Evan emerged from the library and nearly bumped into Ryuji who was standing there nervously running his hand through his hair.
"Can I help you?" Evan asked the boy a bit perplexed.
"Uh…oh yeah, my name is Ryuji, and I just wanted to apologize for what happened yesterday."
"It's quite all right, there is no way that you guys could have known, but I guess after the display that my boyfriend put on last night that it wasn't hard for you all to put two and two together. I just wish it had never happened in front of you guys" Evan replied back a bit dejected as he looked away from Ryuji.
"No, it's not all right!" Ryuji exclaimed, "he hurt you and treated you like you were some piece of property. You're more than just that."
Ryuji's words made Evan cringe. He wasn't wrong though. Shikora had been treating him more like property than his boyfriend. It was just a very complex situation that he knew he would never be able to fully explain to Ryuji.
"I know that what has happened to me is unfair, but I don't really have a choice," Evan started to say as he looked up into Ryuji's eyes, "but it is either deal with this abuse or try and make it back out on the streets."
"That's complete bullshit!" Ryuji exclaimed again and hit the wall before looking back at Evan.
"I couldn't agree more, but I have to do what I can to survive Ryuji. It's not as simple as you think."
Before his temper could get any worse, Ryuji offered to walk with Evan back to his place. He realized that at this rate he might not be able to get anything for everyone else. For the most part they walked in silence to the train station, and sat in silence as the train took them to Shinjuku. Ryuji watched as Evan read his book and had a very peaceful look on his face. 'How could someone going through so much look so tranquil?' Ryuji thought to himself before the intercom on the train started to beep and let the passengers know that they were approached the station in Shinjuku.
As the train came to a stop, Ryuji got up and waited for Evan to leave before him. Evan gave a faint smile as he put his book away and exited the train. They started making their way to Evan's apartment when they rounded the corner and Ryuji saw Akira and everyone standing around. He quickly panicked and stepped in front of Evan.
"Hey, what say you and I go to Crossroads quick and grab a drink so that we can talk?"
Evan looked at him awkwardly and decided to take him up on his offer and the two of them started walking away. While they were on their way to the bar, Ryuji sent a text to the group chat.
What the hell are you all doing outside of Evan's apartment? (Ryuji)
We can't figure out the code words to get in (Makoto)
How did you know we were here? (Makoto)
Yeah Ryuji (Futaba)
Because I was talking with Evan and offered to walk him home (Ryuji)
Oh, how sweet (Futaba)
Shut it! (Ryuji)
I have to agree, that is a very sweet gesture (Yusuke)
Unfortunately we aren't going to get too far if we can't figure out his code words though (Yusuke)
Part of the reason I was walking him home too (Ryuji)
I'm going to see if he will say anything that might help us (Ryuji)
Well hurry up and let us know so that we don't look to suspicious just sitting outside of his apartment (Ann)
I agree, our small group does look suspicious just standing around his apartment (Makoto)
If anyone asks just say that you're one of his clients (Ryuji)
That'll go over good (Futaba)
I couldn't agree more (Ryuji)
That was sarcasm (Futaba)
"Who are you texting?" Evan asked as the approached the entrance of the bar.
"Oh, just my mom" Ryuji lied as he gave Evan a big nervous smiled and held the door open for both of them. Evan just smiled and thanked him as he walked into the bar and took a seat at the bar. Lala-chan walked over and greeted the two boys, making sure to give Ryuji a look over that made him cower a little.
As Lala-chan brought over some waters for them, Evan and Ryuji started to talk about school and their home lives.
"Aside from the abuse, are things okay at home?" Ryuji asked trying to keep his voice as hushed as possible so no one over heard them.
"Well yeah if you look at that place as if it were a dungeon. Shikora pretty much treats everyone as his slaves, so he would be no better than a dungeon master. Going based off of how he treats his clients, I would say that depiction would have to be pretty spot on. Things do not go over too well if he doesn't have all of the control or power."
As Evan said this he took a few sips from his drink and excused himself so that he could go to the bathroom. Ryuji sat there and waited until he had disappeared into the bathroom before pulling out his phone. He texted the key words dungeon and power/control to Akira and waited to hear back from them. Within a few minutes he received a text back letting them know that they were in and would start infiltrating the palace. It was about at that time that Evan came back from the bathroom and gave Ryuji another smile.
"So that is kind of what my home life is like, what about you?" Evan asked as he once again made eye contact with Ryuji making the boy blush a little.
"Well it's just me and my mom. My father was never there, so I started acting out. For the most part it is fine, but I usually bury myself in video games because it is so boring at home. I should probably study more than I do, but it's just so hard to focus" he replied as he scratched the back of his head and smirked at Evan.
Evan smiled and giggled a little. He confessed that he never pictured Ryuji to me much of the studying type which caused Ryuji to go on the defensive. He crossed his arms and exclaimed that he could get good grades and studied if he wanted to. His brutish approach to it made Evan giggle a bit more causing Ryuji to smirk and laugh as well. He knew that he didn't mean what he was saying, he was just trying to sound all smart. He didn't quite understand why though because this feign was different than the others. Where everyone else would call him out for what he said, Evan just casually sat there and laughed. He didn't challenge him, or make him feel stupid. Instead, he made the situation much more appealing.
Ryuji knew that he needed to get going and catch up to the others, so he suggested the two of them leave so that Evan could get home and ready for work. Evan nodded and thanked Lala-chan for the water. He also let Lala-chan know that he would be back later before disappearing out the front door with Ryuji. They started making their way to Evan's apartment and once they were at the front door, Evan turned to Ryuji.
"Thank you for today," Evan started as he averted his eyes for the first time, "it was nice to sit down with someone and actually talk for a change. I don't remember the last time I could just sit back and relax without worry creeping back in."
Ryuji stared at the shorted boy in front of him and nervously started fidgeting with his arm. "Evan you're a smart kid and I think you deserve more than what is happening here."
Hearing him say that caused Evan to smile and look back up at Ryuji. He blushed a little and feeling the need to be close to another person walked up to Ryuji and gave him a hug. The sudden closeness caused Ryuji to blush, but as if by instinct he wrapped his arms around the smaller boy.
"I'm sorry for the suddenness," Evan stated as he pulled away from Ryuji rubbing his arm, "I was just needing some physical contact."
Ryuji smiled nervously and told Evan that it wasn't a problem. Before anything else could happen, the front door flew open. There stood an enraged and slightly intoxicated Shikora. He looked at both Ryuji and Evan as his rage continued to seethe within him.
"Who the hell is this?" Shikora spat out before grabbing Evan by his wrist and trying to yank him inside.
"Stop it Shikora, that hurts!" Evan exclaimed as he pulled away from the grip causing Shikora to grip him tighter.
"Don't tell me what to do bitch, especially if you are going to be fucking around with some other guy" the man said as he stared at Ryuji with hatred.
"We didn't even do anything you asshole, now let go of him" Ryuji yelled out as he punched Shikora causing him to release his grip on Evan. Shikora stumbled back which gave Ryuji enough time to grab a hold of Evan and started tugging him away.
"Where are we going?" Evan asked aloud as he followed behind Ryuji.
"Just trust me" Ryuji said as he pulled his phone out and the two of them disappeared.
Shikora ran out of the apartment and looked down the alley and didn't see or hear anything. He angrily walked back inside of the apartment and slammed the door shut.
Evan had closed his eyes and didn't realize that anything had happened until he opened them and saw that they were no longer next to the apartment. He turned around and yelled when he saw Ryuji dressed up in a completely different set of attire. Ryuji realizing that they would be in trouble walked over and covered up Evan's mouth.
"Don't yell!" He exclaimed as a frightened Evan looked at him. Evan shook his head letting Ryuji know that he needed to be quiet and pulled Ryuji's hand away from his mouth.
"Where the hell are we?" Asked a very confused Evan as he looked around and unconsciously held onto Ryuji's hand.
"It's called the metaverse, but there is too much to explain right now. We have to catch up to the others" Ryuji said looked down at Evan's hand in his and blushed a little. He was happy that Evan couldn't see due to his skull mask.
"Oh man! The others are going to kill me for bringing you here" Ryuji said as he shook his head in disbelief.
"The others?" Evan asked as he pulled his attention away from their surroundings and looked at Ryuji.
"It'll be easier to show you than to tell you" Ryuji answered as he started walking and dragging Evan further into the area with him. The two of them entered the dungeon and started down their path in hopes of finding the others. As they started making their way farther into the dungeon, Evan started to squeeze Ryuji's hand. Ryuji noticed this and stopped for a second.
"Are you okay?" He asked as he turned around and stared down at the shorter boy.
"It's just really scary in here" Evan sheepishly said as he started to blush and his ears started to burn from the embarrassment.
"It's okay, you got me here to help you" Ryuji said reassuringly making Evan smile as he nodded. The two of them continued on and found themselves in a main hall of the dungeon. Off to one side there was a row of chairs with a few people sitting in them blindfolded and dressed in S&M getup.
"Ryuji! Who are they?" Evan exclaimed as he grabbed a hold of the boys shirt and shook it pointing it the direction of the people.
"If I had to guess based off of the rumors I've heard, those are how he views the people he uses for sex" Ryuji deduced.
Evan just looked at them as the beings seemed to be timid and scared. Ryuji reached back and gave Evan a reassuring squeeze as the two of them continued. They soon came to a staircase that led down. As the two of them started to descend the staircase, they were shocked to see a small group of people fighting someone. By the looks of things, it appeared that the group was struggling with their foe. Ryuji let go of Evan and ran down the stairs in hopes of helping his friends, leaving Evan standing there completely perplexed.
Ann kneeled down in pain after taking a devastating blow and looked up at her opponent.
"You are stronger than you look" the dark man said as he looked down at Ann.
"Joker, he is too strong!" Ann exclaimed and winced getting back up to her feet.
"What'll we do?" As Yusuke as he also worked himself back up to his feet.
"At this rate we won't last much longer" Morgana said as he shared a look with Makoto.
"Well this was fun while it lasted" said the dark man as he raised his weapon up again, "but I think it is time for me to dispose of you meddlesome kids."
Ann and everyone closed their eyes as they watched the man swing. Ann was preparing for the worse, but when she didn't feel anything she opened her eyes. She was surprised to see Ryuji standing there and taking the full force of the blow. Ryuji stumbled away from the man before dropping down to his knees.
"Skull!" Ann exclaimed as she ran to approach him.
"The pitiful fool took the full force of my attack without even thinking. No matter, it will just make it easier to dispose of all of you" the man said as he once again raised his weapon.
He was about ready to swing when movement caught his eye.
"What the hell are you doing here you bitch?" The man said causing everyone to look in the direction he was facing.
"What do you think you are doing Shikora?" Evan asked as he hesitantly approached the dark man.
"Disposing of some pest who decided to stick their noses in where it doesn't belong" he said as he turned his attention back to the group.
He once again raised his weapon and aimed it at Ryuji who was still struggling to get back up onto his feet.
"I think I'll start with this runt" the man said as he laughed and prepared to swing.
Evan yelled and ran at Ryuji pushing him out of the way before Shikora's shadow swung his weapon and sent Evan flying back into the wall. Before Evan even had time to pick himself up, Shikora's shadow was standing over him and picking him up by his neck. His hand started to tighten around Evan's neck as Evan clawed at his hand trying to release his grip.
"I should have left you where I found you, you miserable piece of shit. You don't deserve any of the things I have given you" the shadow spat out at Evan as each word sunk deeper and deeper into him.
He gasped for breath as he felt the hand tighten around his throat more, choking the life out of him. Sweat poured down his forehead as he frankly clutched at the hand hoping to bring some relief to his oxygen deprived lungs. As he started to feel light-headed, he closed his eyes and remembered everything up to what was taking place now. 'I don't want to die here' Evan thought to himself as he started to feel himself going limp.
"Finally!" a voice exclaimed causing Evan to open his eyes.
"You've come to the realization that there is more to life than death and despair" the mysterious voice said.
"I was waiting for you to come around so that our contract could be formed. I am thou and thou are I. You have discovered that there is more to life than death, so how about we teach this guy a little something of our own?" The mysterious voice continued on as Evan started to regain his energy.
"I couldn't agree more!" Evan exclaimed as he lifted his feet and kicked Shikora's shadow away from him and dropping to his knees. Evan stood up and started to rip away at the mask that was now covering his head before screaming from the pain.
"Lets do this Nataraja!" Evan yelled as his attire changed and his persona came forth. Everyone looked on in awe as they stared at Evan's persona. His persona was holding a drum in one hand while he had fire in the other. Evan smirked as he looked up at Shikora's cowering shadow.
"For the last couple of months, I have felt like dying, but after today and spending time with a fellow student, I realized that there is more to life than just wanting to die. I may not have a family anymore, but that doesn't mean that I can't make one for myself. It all doesn't have to end here, and I am going to make sure of that by putting an end to your crimes!"
As Evan said this he pointed at Shikora's shadow, who nervously called for his guards to deal with everyone before he made his escape. Evan tried to run after him but was stopped by his guards. Looking back, he saw that everyone else was too hurt to be able to fight, and they wouldn't be able to retreat with these guards hot on their tails. Evan smirked as he got an evil glint in his eyes.
"Well then Nataraja, I guess it is time that we show our true might!"
With that Evan started fighting the shadows. One shadow went in for a hit, but Evan dodged it and reached out for Nataraja's hand. Nataraja grabbed a hold of Evan and threw him up into the air. While he was up in the air, Evan pulled out a sniper rifle and aimed at the shadows. He locked onto the first one's head and shoot it, landing a critical hit before he fell back down and was caught by Nataraja. Once he landed he called out for Nataraja to use hysterical slap on the other shadow, causing it to become enraged. The shadow tried to attack, but Evan dodged it and once again reached out for Nataraja's hand. He was again thrown into the air and pulled out his sniper rifle and shot the other shadow in the head causing a critical hit. With both of the shadows hurt from critical hits, Evan went for an all-out-attack and disposed of the shadows. Once he was all done fighting, he ran over to the others who were finally back up onto their feet.
"Are you all okay?" He asked as he approached them.
"We are now" Makoto reassured him as she gave him a smile.
"Dude you totally kicked ass" Ryuji said as he gave Evan a pat on the back.
"You really saved us" Ann said as she smiled at Evan.
"What were you all doing here?" Evan asked as he looked at all of them.
"Here isn't the place to discuss that," Makoto said as she started to make her way for the exit, "we should discuss this somewhere else."
"What about Crossroads?" Evan suggested as he followed them out.
They were all in agreeance as they made their way out of the metaverse, and then headed on over to Crossroads. Lala-chan saw them all enter and gave one of her famous disapproving headshakes.
"Does this look like a spot that highschoolers should be hanging out at?" the queen asked as she put out her cigarette.
"Please excuse them Lala-chan, they are my friends that I made at school and they wanted to see where I work" Evan lied knowing full well that Ryuji, Ann, and Akira already knew that he worked there.
"It's whatever, just don't stay here too late" Lala-chan said as she already started getting them all water.
"You're the best Lala-chan!" Evan exclaimed as they all grabbed a table.
They all sat around a table and waited for Lala-chan to drop off their water before discussing anything. As soon as they had their water, Evan decided to speak.
"So, who wants to go first?"
Everyone looked at one another before taking a big sigh.