The lights and sounds of the subway station in Shibuya would be overwhelming to any who had never experienced transportation like that of in Japan. Especially at times like these when men and women were mysteriously falling victim to what the media was referring to as "mental shutdowns". Yet, it seems like things might be looking up due to the arrival of the "Phantom Thieves of Heart" who punish criminals and help those who are victims of this cruel, unforgiving society. The "Phantom Thieves" quickly became the new talk of the town, but with as many supporters as they may have, there are those who condemn their actions. So far, not only were they able to expose the lewd teacher Suguru Kamoshida and the fraudulent artist Ichiryusai Madarame, but they also took down the mafia boss, Junya Kaneshiro. However, the Phantom Thieves have been quiet for some time now, and the public is anxiously awaiting their next target.
"Breathe, Senna. Everything's gonna turn out fine. So what if you're in a new school…in a new city…in a new country…," I thought calmly as my relaxed demeanor quickly shifted to anxiety. I put my head down and giggled to myself as I realized how silly I must look to everyone around me as I gave myself a pep talk; and yet, the subway stations were packed with people, just like cargo being rushed onto a train in order to be hastily transported to the next destination. It was almost pitiful, in a way. All of these people go about their daily routines day-after-day like mindless zombies. I wonder if they ever even stop to think about why they do the things, they do. I wonder…
Aoyama-Itchome. This is Aoyama-Itchome.
The sudden robotic voice from the announcement system startled me and pulled me out of my thoughts. I oftentimes find myself getting lost in my own mind, especially without something to distract me. Today is different though. Today, I can't afford to let myself get lost in thoughts since it is my first day in a new school. As of today, I am a proud second year of Shujin Academy! I am definitely excited, but also nervous. This is the school where the rumored "Phantom Thieves" originated. Despite their routes in Japan, the "Phantom Thieves" were slowly garnering attention in the West, too. More specifically in the Japanese communities. That reminds me, I need to make sure I stay in contact with all my old friends. My parents may have been transferred to Japan for work, but I promised I would still keep in touch with everyone back home.
After a few minutes of walking around and following a pair of chatty girls in similar uniforms, I finally found myself at the steps of Shujin Academy. I took in a deep breath as I looked up at my new school for at least the next year. I may be starting at an awkward time of the year, but it was a unique circumstance, and given my exceptional grades in America, the school welcomed me with open arms. Perhaps they felt they needed a good student due to all of the controversy surrounding the school, but that's not my problem. I just hope I fit in.
"Class, this is your new student. She comes all the way from America, so please don't be too rough on her," introduced a tired-looking teacher with messy, short brunette hair. Her name is Ms. Kawakami. She nodded over at me to introduce myself to the class so I stepped forward and told everyone, "Hi! I'm Senna Kasai! I'm looking forward to being in class with you all."
The students greeted me with nothing but silence and skeptical stares, so I awkwardly proceeded to the only seat available in the back, left-hand corner of the room. As I quickly sauntered over, I could hear quiet whispers from my classmates. I could hear them say things like, "I heard her parents are in some shady business," and "I bet she's one of those mega rich, bitchy girls who think everything is about them." It was uncomfortable to say the least, but I never paid much attention to negative rumors. I'm sure once everyone gets to know me, they'll see I'm different from what they think.
As the day droned on, I couldn't help but lose some focus and start looking at the other students in my class. Most of the them looked like generic, average, everyday students, but there were a few that stood out to me. One boy that caught my eye sat on the opposite side of the room. He has dark blue-ish, black hair and is quite fidgety. He was constantly on his phone, and it seemed as if he was checking something every five minutes. Another boy that stood out had frizzy, dark hair. He was more quiet and reserved, and for some reason, the teachers always called him. He usually had the right answers, and I think some kids said he was a criminal, but I don't believe that. Finally, the girl who sat in front of me was the most unique. There was no way she was full Japanese. Her figure was more filled out, similar to that of American girls, and her hair was blonde, full-textured, and wavy. She was one of the most gorgeous girls I had ever seen. She seemed to be struggling to pay attention, but in English class, she was at ease. I assumed that was her best subject. Strangely enough, the blonde girl and frizzy hair would occasionally look at their phones simultaneously, so I figured they must be friends. They must be in some sort of group chat.
After lunch, a few more hours passed by before the final school bell rang. I took my time to put my books and such away, while the other students began to relax and socialize with one another. I was about to put my last textbook in my backpack so I could study later but then I heard a voice say my name in an inquisitive tone of voice. "Umm, Kasai-san?"
I looked up to see a poised, mature student standing above me. She was a little taller than myself, had shoulder length brunette hair, and piercing red eyes. Her voice was authoritative yet soft at the same time. She seemed to be someone of importance, but judging from her uniform, I could tell that she was also a student.
"That would be me," I answered enthusiastically. I stood up and smiled at her as I asked, "How do you know my name?"
The girl smiled as she brushed some hair away from the front of her face. "My apologies. That was slightly off-putting, wasn't it? My name is Makoto Nijima. I'm a third year here at Shujin, as well as the student council president. Principal Kobayakawa and Ms. Kawakami requested that I take you on a tour of Shujin since there wasn't time for one before class today."
I shook my head at her and laughed lightly. "Oh, no worries! It's nice to meet you Nijima-senpai! I wasn't told about a tour, but that sounds like it would be great! This school is a lot bigger than my old one."
"No need for honorifics. You can just call me Makoto. I feel that others connect with me better when they use my first name. In any case, let us proceed with the tour."
Makoto took me through most of the school, including the practice building. Students with questions and concerns consistently interrupted us, which, in turn, lengthened the time it took to see everything. But, all I could really think about was how smart and diligent she must be to have the student council presidency. Makoto-san, although a bit stiff and robotic, seemed very nice and exuded an aura of confidence you don't see from most girls her age. She was definitely someone I wanted to be like.
"And this where our tour…"
Ring! Ring!
As our tour was about to end, Makoto was interrupted by her phone's notifications blowing up. I wondered who could be texting her so vigorously.
She apologized as she quickly muted it and hurried the end of our meeting. "Well, Kasai-san, this is the end of the tour. If you ever have any questions, get lost, or just need someone to talk to, you can usually find me in the library or in front of the student council room."
Makoto began to turn around to go back into the school building and check her messages as she concluded our tour. Before she could get too far away I thanked her for everything. "Oh, Makoto-san, thanks for showing me around. And call me Senna!"
Makoto quickly turned around and nodded at me in acknowledgement before going back through the school entrance. I don't know what it was but spending time with Makoto seemed to touch something deep inside of me. It was strange, yet familiar all at the same time.
