Life will Change
Original Concept: Persona 5
Chapter 10
..
Created by: Atlus/Sega
Written by: wrathie
Consultation: DiLost
Cover art by: Aiwa
Author's Notes: For those who encouraged me. You know who you are. And - after so many years, you would think that FFnet would have sorted out their uploading formatting issues by now.
Le Blanc
…..
Bidding Sojiro goodnight after she helped out with the dishes and the cleaning up, Masumi trudged up to her "room" on the second floor. Although Niijima senpai, or Makoto she supposed, hadn't commented on the state of her room, she was still a little embarrassed by it.
Even so, cleaning could be done another time as she headed towards the small partitioned area to change to her pyjamas.
She really wanted a bath too, but later… her uniform was soiled with sweat, and she needed to get them to the laundromat before a quick shower downstairs.
"A knight must protect a lady. But she is truly defenceless in this location. This is no place for a girl to stay in."
No, Masumi wasn't hearing things and she pinched the bridge of her nose while taking several breaths to calm herself down.
The subsequent changing of her uniform was the fastest she had ever managed and she stomped out to track down the individual that was definitely lurking around her room. For a phantom thief, Morgana sure was quiet. Or perhaps just wanted to warn her about his presence.
Stepping out of the her "changing room", Masumi tapped her feet before calling out softly to him.
"I know you're here, I'm tired today, so please don't make things difficult. Come out, Morgana."
The feline acceded to her request, slinking out from below her bed before jumping on top of the sofa.
"Were you there the whole time the both of us were studying?" Masumi asked tiredly as she scratched her head, she really wanted a shower now.
"I just returned from escorting Lady Ann and Shiho back to their place. I… wanted to stay with one of them." At Masumi's raised eyebrow, Morgana looked to the side sheepishly.
"It's better for our operations, Lady Masumi. No wrong intentions, I assure you. But neither of them were able to house me. I even spoke with Ryuji after I tracked him down."
"... That makes sense, but having a cat here… might be difficult." Masumi looked sceptical but was saved from saying more when Sojiro rang the bell to say he's coming up. Well better late than never right?
…..
"I was wondering why I heard meowing when I was closing up. How did it get here? You shouldn't let it stay on the couch too. The fur will get everywhere." Sojiro looked displeased while Masumi shrugged.
"He just appeared here, I guess it got lost?"
"So, do you plan to keep him then? At least he's tame and obedient." Sojiro scratched his head. "This place is a restaurant however, animals are a no-go. I might get my license revoked." He looked at Morgana again, the cat was sitting on it's haunches and staying quiet.
"But you might be a bit more responsible if you have a pet to take care of. Pity it isn't a dog so it can help chase people off eh?" Sojiro shook her head at the bad attempt for a joke but then got serious again.
"If you really want to keep it, keep him quiet when we're open for business. Don't let it roam downstairs too or I'll have to chase it out." Masumi wanted to say that she can't control an animal when Sojiro added the final remark.
"It's all on you, I won't take care of it. That means feeding it, getting it housebroken and all that. That's all on you." Sojiro softened slightly at the end.
"Maybe sleep on it, I could help feed it if you help out in the shop once in a while at night. Keep you out of trouble too." Sojiro muttered quietly at the end as Masumi nodded reluctantly. Sojiro took his leave soon after that, stepping back downstairs and probably to bed
"Was that the ruler of this place?" Morgana asked as soon as he was gone and Masumi nodded.
"He seemed pretty understanding for someone who keeps you cramped up in this dump." Morgana's eyes widened when Masumi shook and nodded her head consecutively.
"You don't know half the story, Morgana."
"I do sound like a meowing cat to normal people, but I'll try to keep it down when I stay here, Lady Masumi."
"So it's a foregone conclusion that you're staying here now?" Masumi tried to stop the momentum going but Morgana just chuckled.
"Yes, yes I am. Lady Masumi and Ryuji promised to help me with my other problem, don't tell me you forgot? I'm going to become a human again, but only with you two's help." Morgana smirked when Masumi sighed, knowing he had her there.
"Right… now that's established we sh-" Masumi stopped when the bell rang again, and Sojiro entered with a plate filled with food. Curry to be exact and she looked at him in confusion till he placed it on the floor.
"It had to make that cute noise huh?"
Does cats even eat curry? Masumi wanted to stop him but Morgana started tucking in and she resisted the urge to groan. RIght, Morgana is… special.
"You named him yet? You are going to keep him, right?" Sojiro had a soft spot for cats huh?
"Morgana. It's name is Morgana."
"Morgana huh? Take good care of him, or perhaps, the two of you take care of each other." Sojiro addressed Morgana too and the cat nodded slightly at him, not that he noticed. "Well good night Masumi. Don't stay up for much longer. You might be on break from school, but I expect you to help out in the morning's preparation."
Satisfied at Masumi nodding her head, Sojiro departed again.
…..
"The curry is tasty, and to be honest, this place is heaven compared to Kamoshida's cells. About my problems however." Morgana paused in his eating to lie down besides the plate.
"To be honest, I don't remember anything about my birth. I think the metaverse's distortions made me lose both my memories and my true form."
"The human form?"
"Yeah. I mean, why else would a cat be able to talk like this? There's no other possible explanation." Morgana reasoned and Masumi nodded slowly in agreement. It wasn't wrong after all. "There's no doubt that the distortions were what caused me to lose my real self. I'm sure that once they've purged, I'll finally be able to get that self back. And I have a good idea how to do it too. That's why I was in the castle in the first place." Morgana explained while Masumi sat down on the floor, feeling more than a little bit tired at the long day. She listened still though, causing Morgana to fidget a little.
"It is unbecoming for a knight to ask a Lady for her assistance, but Lady Masumi, you are an exceptional young lady. I plead that you would honor your word, and I will protect you till my last breath if you would assist me in my endeavor." The grandiose words again from Morgana and Masumi sighed. She was going to help him out no matter what anyway, he did help save them and was going to help them save Shiho too.
"Come to think of it, I didn't get hungry in that world too. It's odd, but I won't be a freeloader, Lady Masumi. I bring with me my skills and expertise. Due to my knowledgeable and dexterous nature. I have a lot of intel on infiltration tools." Morgana smirked as he gave some space for Masumi to sit on the bed besides him.
"What are infiltration tools? Like lock picks? Grappling hooks? Explosives?" Masumi had seen her share of spy movies.
"Perhaps, I will leave it as a secret, but it will be useful as a Phantom Thief, especially if you intend to continue with our plan for revenge and saving Lady Shiho. However, I will only share those with you if we settle on a deal. In exchange for lodging and food, I will teach you how to craft those tools. Do we have a deal?"
"... I don't think partners need deals… as long as you chip in your share from our raids in the Castle…" Masumi smirked as she remembered the money they had split up earlier, a share was given to Ann too for helping with that… toilet demon.
"Ah, a tough deal. Then Lady Masumi doesn't want to learn about those infiltration tools?"
"I do, but as partners, by sharing the information with me, you'll be helping your partner, am I right? If you don't, you won't be doing your part as a good partner, and if that's the case, it'll make things difficult between us." Masumi's smile was devilish as Morgana shivered.
"... That is a very hard bargain, Lady Masumi. In exchange, you will bring me with you at all times. Do we have an agreement then?"
Morgana offered a paw to Masumi who took it hesitantly. "With some basic house rules then."
"House rules?"
"Rule number #1 is: Peek at me changing and you die, Rule number #2 is: If I find you snooping around my clothes, you die…"
?
…..
"Skillful infiltrations and escapes to all manner of places… There's even the possibility that you used special tools and had someone who manufactured them." Niijima Sae went through the notes she had compiled about the strange incidents.
They were the work of professionals, not kids who got lucky. They needed to go through areas which were guarded and even if they were that lucky, managed to get away clean.
Whoever they had with them, knew what he was doing and did it very well.
Who were they? What did they want, and what tied them to this child who was still groggy from all those drugs they pumped into her?
I am thou, thou art I...
Thou hast acquired a new vow,
It shall become the wings of rebellion that breaketh thy chains of captivity.
With the birth of the Magician Persona, I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall lead to freedom and new power.
Le Blanc
…..
"I will share my knowledge with you over time." Morgana smiled before nudging the plate at Masumi.
"Perhaps we can talk later after you cleaned yourself up, Lady Masumi?"
Masumi agreed, grabbing a towel from her bag along with the plate before heading downstairs to take a long deserved shower.
During the shower, she wondered if Shiho was feeling better. Her friend had obviously taken the ordeal worse than Ann, even if the blonde had seemed more bruised up than her.
…..
"By the way, the power you used in the Palace was amazing." Morgana praised while he rested on a cushion that Masumi had rescued from downstairs. She was sure that Sojiro didn't mind as it was an old one tucked in one of the cabinets.
"The stronger that power gets, the more reliable it'll be as a trump card. Personas are the strength born from one's heart. Depending on what kind of life experience you gain, I bet it'll affect that power as well!" Morgana gushed while Masumi felt conflicted about that.
"Do you mean if I go through more in life, my Persona will get stronger?" She had gone through lots already, she didn't want to go through more.
"Yes, in a way that's accurate. But Lady Masumi must have went through much before as well. Your Persona, Medea, is very powerful for someone who just awoken to the power."
…..
Morgana would never forget the surge of power that had came from Masumi and in extension Medea before she ripped that poor Shadow apart. The differences between her and Ryuji and Lady Ann were obvious from the start as well.
Masumi had probably gone through much more than a normal student would have at her age, thus the innate strength of her Persona was stronger as well.
That didn't factor in the ability to switch and gain more than one Persona too! It was amazing! She was truly their ace.
…..
"And if you became acquainted with capable people, you might learn various useful skills too. This is all part of how a Phantom Thief gets stronger." Morgana explained and Masumi nodded, her mind drifting to the people she has helping her. Tae sensei, who was a doctor and a confidant. She had a session with her some time this week.
Sojiro, who had warmed up considerably to her while giving her a place to return to, and a shoulder to cry on maybe?
Makoto - who had her back at school and was trying her best to help her in light of what had happened, someone who had power and authority to change things too!
Not to mention the rest of her friends, Ryuji, Ann, Morgana himself and Shiho. All of them were there, those were the bonds right?
And finally, that last individual who Masumi thought would fit the bill, the owner of the airsoft shop, Munehisa-san.
But Masumi was still sceptical, how much could she actually learn from them? Oh well - she just had to trust Morgana on this.
"I expect great things from you, Lady Masumi. Besides the house rules, I suppose I can stay in that bag of yours when we move around."
"Won't you suffocate? It's pretty small… and I can't just carry only you."
"Suffering is part of a Phantom Thieve's job, do not worry about me, Lady Masumi. Please do not drop me however." Morgana jumped from her bed to settle down on his new cushion near the changing area of her room.
"It'll allow me to hear the landlord come in, I'll behave myself." Morgana reassured her before settling down and closing his eyes. He looked pooped, just like she herself was.
But there's still things she need to do before she earned her night's rest. Namely - the messages that she had received..
…..
"Thanks for everything today. You saved me, and I didn't even thank you properly." A message from Ann, and Masumi smiled before replying her that she should thank Ryuji too.
"I will, but you need to know too. I'll see you tomorrow maybe? Good night."
…..
"Thank you for saving me and Ann today, please stay safe. I wouldn't know what to do anyone of you get hurt. Please let me know if there's something I can help with!" A message from Shiho, and Masumi closed her eyes in contemplation before replying that she'll do that if she can find something.
"Thank you. I don't want to be just a burden."
…..
Speaking of which…
"Morgana, can Shiho develop a Persona too?"
"Lady Shiho?" Morgana considered before shrugging, looking unsure.
"She might have the potential to have one, or she might not. It is a gray area as she was in the same situation as Lady Ann, but didn't rebel against Kamoshida. Then again, Kamoshida has great influence over her. If she were to have a Persona, she would need to overcome her crippling weakness against Kamoshida. Not something easy to say the least.
"I'm not sure if I want to see that happening… she shouldn't be there." Masumi mumbled while Morgana looked thoughtful.
"She hasn't awakened to one yet, and if she stays away from Kamoshida's Castle and Palace, it is unlikely that she will. I applaud you for the concern you are showing to Lady Shiho, Lady Masumi, but it's not always the best idea to shield your friends from harm." Morgana's gaze sharpened slightly as he continued. "You knew Lady Ann before she awakened Carmen, Lady Masumi. What do you think of her before that? Going through hardship is difficult, that is why it is "hard", but overcoming it is a liberating experience that will better an individual. Is Lady Ann a better person before, or after her awakening?"
After, there's no doubt about that. Masumi understood her point, but there was one critical flaw in Morgana's reasoning.
"After, but that's only if they survive what happens next… although we did, that's only because there was four of us. If Ann awakened to Carmen by herself, I don't think she'll be able to make it." Masumi's reasoning made Morgana frown but he too nodded in agreement.
"Of course. You have a sharp mind, but it is a debate we won't be able to agree with each other. I believe that all individuals should face their fears and attempt to overcome them, that is how individuals grew. You grew as well didn't you, Lady Masumi?" Morgana winked at her and Masumi agreed, nodding her head slowly.
All she wanted was to have a new life, and despite all the challenges she faced so far, all the fearful and stressful situation that she had gone through. Masumi was confident to say that she was better, or perhaps, she was stronger now after all of that.
It wasn't just due to Medea, although she gave her strength when she really needed it (her way of motivation needed work), but it was the circle of friends that she managed to gain through this.
"I did. Even if it's painful. So… for Shiho, maybe… but if she didn't need to, it'll be good as well. I don't want her to suffer.
Morgana only nodded to that, before gesturing to her bed/sofa.
"Well, tomorrow is going to be a busy day. You should sleep now. Keep it together alright? Rest well, Lady Masumi. I'll keep watch."
As much as Masumi wanted to argue, it was the right thing to do and she nodded, curling up into her bed and drifting off to dreamland.
Le Blanc
…..
"Good morning Sojiro…" Masumi mumbled tiredly as she slipped downstairs early in the morning. Morgana was still upstairs sleeping, but she couldn't really sleep well. It was like the pressure of Kamoshida was pressing against her throat.
"Good morning to you too. You'll be taking the day off today as well?"
She had two days off school after all, and she had homework to finish. Relaying that to Sojiro, Masumi started to wipe the table she was going to sit on before doing the same to the countertop as well. Things only progressed from there as she felt more awake by doing things.
"Hmm… good to see you actually chipping in. But you shouldn't work on an empty stomach. Wash up and I'll have curry for you. Since you are taking absence, I expect you to visit Tae today for one of your counselling sessions as well."
There's that too, and as much as Masumi dreaded it, she should keep her appointments.
"I'll do that…. Thank you Sojiro."
…..
Breakfast was curry and coffee, and as odd as it was, it was also delicious but she had to clear out soon after helping with the setting up of the cafe, sweeping and wiping the tables and chairs. She had to run to get food for Morgana as well, and after much deliberation, decided on a small pack of dried cat food in case Morgana disliked it.
Perhaps he wouldn't mind eating this? But cat food was more expensive in the long run as compared to cooking for him. But what about nutrients and water?
Two dishes were purchased, as well as a small cushion for Morgana to use as a bed. The expenses were all piling up, guess she'll be working today too.
…..
"Welcome back Lady Masumi. Ah, you bought food…?"
Morgana wasn't pleased about the way the food was presented, cat food wasn't food for humans after all. But luckily for Masumi, his body was that of a cat and he liked the food.
She did had to promise to get him human food once a while too at that, but it was a easy compromise after she set up Morgana's living quarters in her room.
"I propose some cleaning up, Lady Masumi? This isn't exactly a place suitable place for you to live in, with all due respect."
Morgana made sense and she spent the rest of the day cleaning up her room to make it more presentable.
"Well, well, I didn't expect this, you surprised me." Sojiro rubbed his chin as he surveyed the attic. It looked much better now, less dusty for one and with multiple boxes of trash to be thrown away. He studied Masumi, who was wearing a mask and had her hair tied up and covered with a cloth as she busied herself dusted the the shelves.
"Ah, Sojiro. I didn't hear you coming up." She was wearing her earphones and she removed them while bowing to him. He should really get her a vacuum so it's more bearable and neater for her.
"Come down and have lunch, I'll get the vacuum for you later so it's easier for you. You did a good job here." Sojiro smiled at her and the transfer student blushed lightly while fidgeting.
"I'll be looking through the boxes too before they are disposed. I'm glad you're cleaning up, but do use the laundromat to wash the curtains and your clothes later, they're all stained. I'll reimburse them for you after that. Tell you what, I'll work through a small allowance that you can claim from me for your needs." Sojiro paused and then admitted to her.
"Your mother gave me some money to keep you out of trouble and to get you medicine, I'll take a small portion of it out for your hygiene needs. You girls need those monthly right?" Sojiro looked a little awkward and Masumi scratched her chin, feeling the same. Awkward guardian, meet awkward teenager.
"Well - I do the shopping for my daughter, Futaba, and it's always difficult. So, how about this. I'll dispense the funds to you on a monthly basis, plus a little extra if you buy some for her use too. But you'll have to make it last the month, and you can't buy the cheap knockoffs either. Get the middle range ones." Sojiro tried to look stern but just looked more awkward as he couldn't even list the brand he usually buys.
"Alright, that's fair. I'll bring the receipt back each time." Masumi smiled hesitantly below the mask and Sojiro brightened up in understanding.
"That'll be great, yeah, that'll be better. Alright, get down or your lunch will get cold. I got some of the cat too, Morgana, right?"
"Hey, we're meeting up at the hideout after school, right?" Masumi startled as her phone rang while she was doing her homework. Checking it out, it turned out to be Ryuji.
"Don't text now, we're in class."
"Whoa you mean you're actually listening to all this crap?" Ryuji's reply to Ann made Masumi chuckle.
"Yeah, but none of it is really sticking today."
"I know, right?"
"Anyways, we'll meet at the gates and pick Masumi up at the station?"
"We can use the hideout, the roof if we meet up next time when I'm back from school." Masumi texted them quickly.
"Wait, we can still go up there?"
"Yeah, I got a way up. Anyway, as per the plan, I talked to Kawakami about visiting Shiho, and she said it'll be fine if she knows I'm coming. Think that's good?"
"Yeah, it'll be a good idea for me to pick you up too, to avoid more rumours." Ann's reply made Masumi sigh and she agreed.
"I hope she doesn't have too much visitors though."
"Are you kidding? Only the three of us are visiting her. I think Kamoshida's pulling some strings, or they're just afraid." Ann's reply to her text made Masumi growl, but she really couldn't fault them for that.
Takemi Clinic
…..
"Deep breaths." Masumi told herself before chiding Morgana who was squirming inside her bag. She was here for her first appointment with Tae sensei and she hoped that she would be busy with other patients.
"Are you sick, Lady Masumi?" Morgana asked curiously, not sure where they were going till they reached their destination. It was only a few metres away from where she lived, but it felt like an eternity for her.
"No, I have an appointment to speak with the doctor here about my issues…" Masumi tried to sound optimistic but it didn't show. Morgana looked like she was about to say something but in the end decided against it.
"Well, no time like the present." Knocking on the door, she entered the clinic.
…..
"Well, I didn't expect you soon. It's just, no two days since then. Well, have a seat." Takemi Tae sensei looked surprised but not too bothered in the empty clinic.
She was both the receptionist and the doctor on duty, which surprised Masumi a little. Still, she accepted the offer to enter the consultation room before taking a seat on the chair in front of her.
"Not there, I mean on the bed. We're going to talk a little, you can leave your bag at the side." Tae sensei instructed and Masumi agreed, gently putting the bag down before lying on the bed proper.
"Since this our first time, I'm going to ask you a few questions about your medical condition before we talk about your issues. I admit this is not what I am specialized in, but I will listen to whatever you may wish to share with me." Tae sensei looked in concern at Masumi who was shaking a little while on the bed.
…..
Feeling a hand on hers, Masumi looked down to see Tae sensei's hand on hers as she stared steadfastly at her clipboard.
"Well then, let us start then. You are Kurusu Masumi, age 16 years old, female. You just moved into Tokyo…."
The conversation went on from there, Tae sensei methodically recording down her medical history, as much as she remembered anyway before mentioning the elephant in the room.
"Now Masumi, are you aware of the effects of the medication you were having? The most severe effects are that it would cause increase anxiety, lowering of your tolerance to anxiety, drowsiness and insomnia. Taken separately, they wouldn't, but with the mixes you have. Does your doctor prescribe this to you?" Tae sensei's brows furrowed when Masumi admitted that he didn't.
"I had more than one doctor prescribe medicines to me. My mother, she, took me to see as many as she could afford to. I don't know why." Masumi confessed while Tae sensei's grip on her hand tightened till she relaxed.
"I see. At least you were smart enough to not take all of it at once."
"I flushed some down the toilet when mother got suspicious… she blames me for what I did." Masumi paused before looking at Tae sensei timidly.
"You know what I did… right? My… record."
…..
Kurusu Masumi-chan sounded broken as she whispered that, and Tae winced inwardly. This wasn't her field, she wasn't supposed to play counsellor like this. She hadn't for Sojiro's other kid, so doing it for this one was just ridiculous.
Only Sojiro had told her that he was afraid that Masumi-chan would take her own life after almost getting raped.
Tae had her suspicions, but from how she was still affected by her past charge, it wasn't entirely unlikely.
She might be fine now, but it might just be a brave front, and it might all collapse in a single moment if the right/wrong buttons were pushed.
"Yes, Sojiro told me about it. Do you want to talk about it?"
"No one believed me before… but Sojiro believed me. My mother thought I was too stressed over school, my classmates thought that I was… I was an escort… and my teachers, they were all disappointed in me… I, I was…" Masumi-chan's voice cracked briefly while Tae watched. It was a very traumatic incident for her, but she was holding it together admirably.
"Sojiro believed me… but, I don't think Tae sensei would believe me if I told you what happened." Masumi-chan looked at her again and Tae sighed.
She didn't need to know, she shouldn't pray, but if she was to try and keep this child from doing something foolish, a listening ear would be good for her.
"I don't need to know whether I did was right or wrong… I shouldn't have hit him, but… I want to know whether my intent was right."
"Alright then…"
Masumi told Tae sensei her version of the story, the truth of what happened. It felt, different than to what she had felt when she did the same to Sojiro. But it was relieving nonetheless, regardless of what Tae sensei felt about it.
"I see. So that happened to you." Tae sensei spoke softly as she leaned back against her chair. A hand went to pinch her nose as she reflected on the story, or perhaps just felt a headache.
"You must have suffered a lot. … You were alone all this time, huh?" Tae sensei spoke softly before one hand reached up to pet Masumi on her head, causing the black haired teen to blink in surprise.
Tae sensei was surprisingly gentle with her stroke as she continued.
"You're still a kid, even if you're a teenager. They didn't need to be so hard on you. That guy you hit, must be someone with connections." Tae sensei huffed as she looked away, her hand shaking a little as she growled. "Typical. People in power are used to getting what they want and nothing else."
It was a curse and sentiment that Masumi agreed with and she just stayed quiet, unsure how to react. Did that mean Tae sensei believe her?
"Sensei?" Masumi prodded after a long period of silence and Tae sensei jerked a little, apparently too deep in thought.
"Ah, my apologies. I was reflecting upon… things. And thank you for sharing your story with me, Masumi-chan. You're a lot braver than most teens your age. You've seen, much." Tae sensei decided on before scowling lightly at her.
"That just means you're a little more grown up than others your age. You're not expected to hold on this burden by only yourself."
"But sensei, my mother was beside me this whole time."
"Not if she was taking you from doctor to doctor, but that's not important. What's important for you to know is that as your legal guardian, you can go Sojiro for anything. You don't need to wallow through your troubles only by yourself any further." Tae sensei reminded Masumi and she nodded slowly. Masumid wanted to believe that, she did. But was it really true.
"And me, if you wish to."
"Sen-sensei?"
"It's obvious that you don't believe that. But Sojiro, he's got a real soft spot for kids who are in trouble. That daughter of his… I can't say much, but let's say that besides pitying you, he's also making up for lost time." Tae sensei seemed to recover from whatever she had been thinking of as she smiled devilishly at her all of a sudden.
"Of course, if you want to continue to use me as a venting board, I'll have to charge you. Or, if you want to have some better medicine…" Tae sensei moved her chair over to her cabinets where she opened them with a flourish.
"Take your pick, I got them sleeping pills and other stuff. Just be sure you can pay for them and I'll keep it a secret from Sojiro for you." Tae sensei winked, but turned serious again.
"Look, I know you're the independent sort, you're bottling things up, and there's definitely something you're hiding from all of us. But you're a kid, let the adults know if you need help, alright? If anything, I'll patch you back up if you get into a bad night. You have plenty of people worrying about you, and death really isn't the answer…" Tae whispered quietly and sadly at the end while Masumi thought about that night once more.
She shook her head, no more - not, that again. But she understood what Tae sensei meant, even if it was a little vague.
…..
"That's good. I have to end this session then. Does it feel better, letting another person know?" Tae sensei asked and Masumi nodded her head in agreement.
"My offer stands, I don't want Sojiro to come rushing to me if he finds any more bruises on your legs or wrists. Don't tell me you haven't been fighting lately." Masumi flinched at that and Tae sensei smiled triumphantly at her reaction.
"You're not the kind to go quietly in the night, are you, Masumi-chan? No - I can see right through you, and being defeated like that doesn't suit you. Don't be afraid of that part of you, it's that strength that got you this far, trauma or not. You just need to remember that." Tae sensei flicked her finger against her forehead, causing Masumi to wince in pain.
"But violence will still get you kicked out of school, so don't let waste your second chance. When you're way above your head, scream. You're a girl, you'll get scot free most of the time." Tae sensei winked at her while Masumi gaped at her suggestion.
"Even with my suggestion?"
"People will be sympathetic to a girl at first sight, even if you might be at fault. Heh. Everyone likes a cute face, and you have that in spades."
Le Blanc
…..
"And homework's done!" Masumi cheered happily as she slapped the file closed, looking very pleased with herself. Morgana had been quiet throughout the entire time she had decided to work on her homework and it unnerved Masumi a little. On hindsight, she shouldn't have brought Morgana with her, but what's done was done. Morgana was currently curled up on his cushion, deep in thought after asking not to be disturbed after being brought back home.
Masumi had felt… complicated about Tae sensei's advice, it wasn't exactly what she needed, but Tae sensei had saw through her. She had seen Medea inside her, the Persona who was one part spite, one part anger, and one part depressed. Medea of Colchis, the Witch of Betrayal, but also a Princess who was cursed by fate and the Gods to suffer through so much hardship and lies. She had looked up Medea's history, Captain Kidd as well as Carmen the very moment she could on her phone.
Masumi emphasized with her Persona, her life wasn't as traumatic, nor was it as dramatic as Medea's, but she could understand why Medea was her, and she was Medea.
But at least Tae sensei believed that she wasn't a weak girl, that counted for something. Even if she wasn't sure how Tae sensei could tell, wasn't she not an expert in psychology? But the bruises and injuries, hmm… she hadn't realized they could be detected.
They had healed up before they left the Palace after all, no matter how tired she was after doing that to ensure appearances.
"I'm glad you're in good spirits, Lady Masumi."
…..
Morgana broke his extended spell of silence and Masumi turned to see Morgana sitting upright on his cushion, staring at her intently. Looks like he made a decision, although she wasn't sure what decision he had to make, being so quiet and all.
"What's wrong Morgana, are you having second thoughts?"
"Initially yes, a Knight won't lie to a maiden. You are not what I expected, Lady Masumi." Morgana confessed easily enough while Masumi laughed bitterly, he had hit the nail on the head. There was nothing ordinary about her.
"I'm not just a pretty face, Morgana. You should know better then that."
"No you're not, you've faced much even in your youth. I think I am able to see what drives you, and it concerns me. So yes, I did have second thoughts." Morgana answered gravely and Masumi froze, then she relaxed.
"I see." Her answer was stiff as various thoughts ran through her mind. She didn't know how to react to that, but most importantly was a feeling of being cornered and desperate. She had a plan, and allies, was it all going to just disappear like that?
"But I decided that you're more than worth it, Lady Masumi." Morgana's follow up made Masumi's eyes widen as she tried to spin it to something positive.
"I understand your motivation and your beliefs, and although I sense danger in you, it's also reassuring. Most importantly though, your conviction to what's right is beyond reproach. Despite, or perhaps, due to your past - I know now that you will not be corrupted by that power, but will use it for good. Besides, your power is beyond that of any Persona user I've met, and I have faith it will be the deciding factor between success and failure. You're our Ace. Our Joker." Masumi blushed at the praise while Morgana grinned at his seat in the cushion.
"Whatever happens, I'll be sticking with you, Lady Masumi. That's a promise from a Phantom Thief and a Knight, so you'll be sure I'll be sticking to it."
"... Thank you, Morgana." Her fears were vanquished again, when would it get not surprise her? Masumi wondered while smiling brilliantly at her ally.
Perhaps it was alright to be truly optimistic?
"I'm heading out to see Shiho again." Masumi informed Sojiro, who simply nodded in acknowledgement as he stayed glued to the TV. He did however murmur for her to stay safe as she left, but before she closed the door, he did wave and call out.
"Don't be back too late!"
"Okay." At least he cared and Masumi headed straight for the train station without stopping by anywhere, she didn't want the other two to wait for her after all.
Train Station
…..
"We are waiting for Ryuji and Lady Shiho, yes? Do you mind if I scout the area first? Kamoshida might be aware we might wish to speak with Lady Shiho again."
"He is barred from seeing her though." Masumi whispered softly while Morgana shook his head.
"That has never stopped him before, better to be safe than sorry." Masumi couldn't argue with that and so let Morgana leave by himself. Although she was worried for Shiho's privacy now that she let Morgana loose. She'll have to trust Morgana for this one.
…..
It was a wait, but after the messages from Ryuji and Ann reassured that they're safe and on their way, Masumi took the time to look through the history of Zorro, the Persona of Morgana and even of Bicorn, who she had contracted alongside Pixie. Unlike Medea, they were a part of her, but not her. It was reassuring too, since Medea announced she was her, if she had so many Personas and all of them were 'her' as well - does that mean she has multiple personalities?
She supposed the benefit of having more than one Persona was flexibility in skills and weaknesses?
Speaking of which, she should totally check out the term Persona on the web too. Who knew what she'll find.
Tokyo Metro (Ichigaya Station)
…..
"Looks like you made it too." Masumi greeted her friends Ryuji and Ann as they stepped out of the station, the two bickering about something. It never changed, but she was relieved to see Ann more cheerful than she had been for days.
Morgana had been right about it being a better thing.
"Looks like we're all here. Let's go then~" Ryuji grinned while Ann simply nodded, but Masumi raised her bag to the side of her and gestured to where Morgana should be.
"Hmm? So Morgana is staying with you now? You'll keep an eye out for him, right?" Ryuji asked in concern while Ann shrugged, having expected that
"Wait - he didn't ask whether he could stay with you, Ryuji?" Masumi however was annoyed at the implication and Ryuji shrugged his head.
"Nope, he didn't. He was supposed to be with Ann or Shiho right? I didn't see him after that."
"That filthy... He wanted to stay with only girls." Masumi growled in frustration but Ann reassured her by petting her shoulders.
"Well - he's been very nice, he won't try something funny…. I think." Ann's hesitant murmur at the end didn't reassure Masumi, but her cracking her knuckles did sound nice to her ears.
"I'll make her pay if he tries." Masumi promised to everyone and they laughed.
Shiho's Room (Ichigaya)
"Looks like we're all here." Ryuji announced after they closed the door and Shiho's mother left them to talk alone. Shiho's mother had taken a liking to Ryuji again, and had given Masumi a hug before ushering them up to see Shiho.
They had barely started talking when she had returned with refreshments, thankfully not catching sight of Morgana who dived below Shiho's bed to hide himself.
"RIght, let's explain what's going on first. I'll leave it to you, Masumi." Ryuji threw the ball to Masumi's court and the transfer student nodded before going into an explanation of what they were doing, what happened to them, and what they learned about what that place was from Morgana.
…..
"Right - now that you guys are up to speed. I know Ann is coming with us, but Shiho, you wouldn't want to, right?" Shiho and Ann had questions at different intervals. Ann was more curious than Shiho, though the quieter of the two didn't seem to be in denial over it actually happening to them.
"I, I don't know. I'm part of this, aren't I? Will Kamoshida, or any one be able to take me back there?"
Shiho's question was directed to Morgana, who shook his head.
"Lady Shiho and Lady Ann only stumbled upon the Palace when you followed Lady Masumi and Ryuji, yes? Even for Lady Masumi's case, it was due to the app that had been installed in her phone?" Morgana sounded unsure at the end, but nodded when Masumi agreed, showing the weird black and red symbol app on her phone.
"I have one too, does Ann have one?" Upon confirmation from Ann, all of them turned to Shiho who nodded apprehensively, taking out her phone to confirm that yes, she had the same app installed in her phone.
"Whoever or whatever circumstances made Lady Masumi be able to enter the metaverse, it seems that entering the Metaverse and escaping it once made it possible for you to enter it if you wish to, Lady Shiho. As for whether someone else could bring you there out of your own will, I must say it's unlikely."
"Unless someone else who can brings you there themselves." Masumi added on and Morgana agreed reluctantly.
"So… is it better for me to go with you guys then?" All of them exchanged looks before turning to Masumi, who shrugged and directed the enquiry to Morgana.
"... It is complicated, as discussed with Lady Masumi the night before, it would be preferable for you to awaken your Persona before considering the next step. WIthout your Persona, you'll be deadweight, like Ryuji was at the start." Morgana couldn't help but smirk at Ryuji who scowled.
"I get what you mean, but it's different. I want to go, but Shiho doesn't want to, right?"
"No I don't." Shiho agreed with Ryuji and Morgana nodded in understanding.
"A willing party is different from an unwilling one. It is ultimately your choice. From our understanding so far, you shouldn't be brought to the Palace again unknowingly like you did the first time."
"You can't delete the app though, I tried, so just keep your phone safe." Masumi added before they shifted topics, to one that they wasn't sure whether she should listen to.
…..
"Would you rather we take this conversation to another place, Shiho? If you aren't coming with us, you don't need to listen to our plans either. It'll be… safer, walls have ears after all. I don't want to implicate you if we get caught too." Masumi asked Shiho quietly as Morgana nodded his head in approval.
"As expected of our designated leader, Lady Masumi. The smaller the circle who knows our plans the better, it'll be safer for Lady Shiho as well."
"Well… I don't mind. It'll be safer for you to be here, then at school, right? And I want to help if I can. To take down Kamoshida, it's a worthy cause." Shiho smiled hopefully to the rest, but no one failed to see her shaking a little in fear.
She's meeting her fears head on however, and that's a good thing, right?
"Right, so that's decided. We gonna go hit the Palace soon right?" Ryuji asked, pumped up but Morgana interrupted them.
"Hold on, it's still too early for us to head to the Palace. We need to make some preparations, do not underestimate the dangers of that place. All of you should understand that by now."
"I think we do, but please explain to us what kind of preparations we need. Ryuji, we almost got killed a few times, we can't mess this up. Better to be safe than sorry." Masumi reprimanded Ryuji and he fell silent, scratching his head in understanding.
Ann seemed shaken, but considering she almost got raped and killed yesterday, she understood the grave repercussions if they ever failed.
"First, we'll need to find better equipment for all of you." Morgana explained and Ryuji chipped in.
"You talkin' about weapons? I know a kick-ass place at Shibuya"
"Is it the "Untouchable"?" Masumi's question made Ryuji grin and he nodded.
"Right, I got the model gun off him, and he stocks cool replica armor and stuff too."
"In that case, you can handle that side of things, or perhaps Lady Masumi would like to do so?"
"Ryuji can handle it. I just bought a few things off him a while ago, he'll be suspicious if I keep visiting him." Masumi's reply made Ryuji grin and he nodded.
"Got it, I'll get us some basic stuff then. Anything's better than going there with what we have now."
"The only other thing would be stocking up on medicines, Fatigue is unavoidable in a Palace, I believe Lady Masumi can handle that." Morgana's suggestion was valid and she agreed.
"Alright, we'll meet up tomorrow then after school. Lady Masumi will be returning to school tomorrow, yes?"
"My homework please." Masumi asked Ann and she handed off another stack to her even as Ryuji seemed surprised that that was all for today.
"I thought we'll be heading in today too…"
"It's getting late, and you need to get our stuff. Lady Masumi and I have to get some medicine. Plus, Lady Ann would like to spend some time with Lady Shiho as well. It's best that we leave today, have a good rest and tackle the Palace tomorrow."
No one disagreed and thus the Phantom Thieves split up to do their own things.
Yogenjaya
…..
"Disinfectant, painkillers, bruise cream, burn cream… Bandages?" Tae sensei looked at Masumi suspiciously as she rang up the purchases that she had picked up.
Masumi could only smile innocently. "I wanted to pick up supplies for the student council. They wanted to fill a first aid box there. Do you have any other recommendations?"
"Scissors, tape and band-aids. That's what's basic. Not… well, perhaps these as well." Tae sensei gave her that one and Masumi beamed more naturally while she picked up a few more rolls of bandages before tossing it into the bag.
"... Don't get injured, whatever you're doing after school. You aren't part of a gang are you?"
"Nope… but I am picking up airsoft… it's hard." Masumi said another white lie as she rummaged for the airsoft pistol she bought a few days ago.
"Does Sojiro know?"
"Nope, I don't think he'll appreciate me firing this at my room. It hurts when they ricochet to you." Masumi stuck her tongue out cutely to Tae and she seemed to relax.
"Well, you should buy some extra for yourself then if you might be getting hit more often. If you get seen with more bruises, someone might suspect Sojiro for abusing you." Tae reminded Masumi and she nodded in understanding.
"I understand. I'll be more careful."
…..
"I'm sorry for the trouble." Masumi thanked Tae sensei again before closing the door, only to pause when she saw someone waiting at the seats outside of the room.
It was a man in a business suit with glasses, and he stared sternly at Masumi even as he strode into the room without hesitation.
…..
"What's the reason for your visit? Do you have a cold? Stomachache? Athlete's foot? Whatever it is, you'll need to take a number…" Tae's sensei voice could be heard from behind the door.
"Enough of this!" The sound of someone slamming a palm on the desk made Masumi cringe and she wondered if she should leave.
"You're the only one who could have developed that kind of medicine."
"I'm afraid I have no idea what you're talking about…"
"Don't play dumb with me. Rumor has it, it's a drug so pontent it can give a person unlimited power."
"Really, that's news to me." Tae sensei's voice sounded flat and disinterested while the man's got more agitated.
"Developing experimental drugs, medicine and herbal remedies violates all health regulations. Are you attempting to make a super-stimulant? A drug like that will only become a social issue."
"You're really persistent, you know that? I'm just a quack."
"The police may not be taking action, but I imagine the media will soon pick up on it. You intend to ruin my reputation again, huh? You're a disgrace to the medical community." The man declared again, softer but more threatening.
"What's with that look? That was your mistake, was it not? I won't be responsible for your criminal actions. Dispose of that "medicine"-" The man sounded greatly offended at that term. "- immediately and resign. The name "Takemi Tae" will never-"
There was a pause when he exclaimed.
"Is somebody there!?"
Masumi made a hasty retreat after that.
"Whew they almost caught us." Morgana mentioned and Masumi sighed too. That had been way too close. Looks like Tae sensei had her own history as well, but that's life in general. Even her father…
"Sounded like they were talking about something dangerous, Lady Masumi. Could that doctor be hiding some extra strong medicine?"
"Seems suspicious…"
"Perhaps, but it could come in handy at the Palace in a pinch. Perhaps you can talk to her about that. But it's best if we don't get her involved, she's sharper than she looks."
Masumi chuckled softly at the insinuation.
"I think anyone would be suspicious if I were to buy such a variety of medicine in one go. But I didn't know what we'll really need, so I thought it's better to consult her."
"That was a wise move, Lady Masumi. Well done. We got the medicine, now we need the equipment. Remember, anything that looks remotely or is recognized as weapons or armor would work." Morgana's words made Masumi shake her head as she made her way back home to Le Blanc.
"Tell that to Ryuji, and speak of the Devil…" Her phone rang and she saw the messages that made her sigh.
"Ryuuji ended up wanting us to go with him to the "Untouchable" tomorrow."
"Oh, have you been there before, Lady Masumi?" Morgana was curious while Masumi nodded.
"He helped me out of a pinch, and I met him a few times. I guess we know each other? Somewhat…" Masumi shrugged at the end and decided to leave it at that.
"I'm back. I'll help out after I change." She greeted Sojiro quietly, and the man nodded while in the midst of tending to a customer's coffee.