Life will Change
Original Concept: Persona 5
Chapter 9
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Created by: Atlus/Sega
Written by: wrathie
Consultation: DiLost
Cover art by: Aiwa
Author's Notes: My apologies for the delay, but here we go. I hope you will enjoy it.
Kamoshida's Castle: Dining Room
"No, I'm the one that had enough of you! Let's go, Carmen!"-
The defiant cry from Ann put Shiho up short and she clung onto the nearest thing, that cat-like creature that had rescued her from her nightmare.
It had to be a nightmare, it had to be. For starters, she had been kidnapped by knights and tied up fetish style on display. It had been worse than that time with Kamoshida, and she'll be lying if she said she still didn't have nightmares about it.
But nightmares shouldn't be worse than her real life experiences, right?
Of course things had gone from bad to worse, and Shiho faced death together with her best friend. Shiho would be lying if she wasn't afraid of death. Although she had tried to take her life once, once was enough.
She owed Masumi-chan so much, she was only reminded that she was leaving behind so much from her after all.
So, was it ironic that she was faced with the same situation, of having to face death head on, or to a fate that's worse than that from what Kamoshida had inferred had happened?
Kamoshida hadn't even paid attention to her, she wasn't even afforded a glance. It was… good, and bad. For starters Shiho didn't want his eyes on her, compromising situation or no.
Bad as it meant that his eyes were on Shiho only, and she didn't want that to happen at all!
She had gone all out for Ann, and although it was a pyrrhic victory, was Kamoshida going to just take everything away like this yet again?
Wasn't her nightmare over yet? All those thoughts went in a loop that immobilized her.
Thus Shiho had despaired, wishing for it all to end while Ann kept on struggling. In many ways Shiho both envied and felt pity for Ann.
Her friend had the strength to keep on going, while she… she just admitted to her fate. Then again, it would only make things even more difficult for her when the inevitable happened.
...
...
So when something, or someone had burst out of Ann, Shiho would admit that she didn't know how she felt then. She was happy she was saved, glad that it was Ann who did it. But she was also hugely disappointed too. Did Ann know she could have done this, to stand up to Kamoshida before… all of those things happened to her?
Shiho turned to listen to the cat-like individual who had gushed in excitement at how Ann was facing Kamoshida head-on, and it hurt. It hurt because Ann might have, could have, saved her before she needed saving.
It was too late for Shiho after all, something precious was taken away that cannot be replaced.
Despite herself, a part of her was indeed angry at Ann. It was Ann's fault after all, and she was only making things more difficult for herself. They couldn't stand up against Kamoshida, not here, or anywhere. It was all just hopeless!
"Let's get you somewhere safe first, Lady Shiho." The masked cat tapping at her elbow before lifting her entire body up. It shocked her, seeing someone so small have so much strength. Shiho didn't resist being taken away before being gently placed against a wall.
"Now please stay here, Lady Shiho. If there's any sign of trouble, do not hesitate to call me, your knight, Morgana. Just shout my name and I'll be here." He bowed in a grandiose fashion before turning, apparently heading to where Ann and her friends was fighting… a purple colored demon sitting on a toilet?
"W-Wait!" Shiho realized it was her voice too late but it made the cat, Morgana, stop and turn back to her.
"You called, Lady Shiho?"
"It-it's that… you should run. All of you, should run. Kamoshida sensei is mad, he won't let any one of you off! But if you run, then perhaps…"
"It's as Lady Shiho said, Kamoshida is furious at us, and running won't fix that." The cat answered sternly, his ears twitching before gesturing at Kamoshida sensei. "We've long crossed that bridge, Kamoshida won't forgive us right? Then it just gives us more reason to beat him up as much as we can."
"But y-you can't expect to win!"
"Not with that mindset you don't, if you believe you'll lose before you even begin, the battle's half lost. Don't ever doubt!" Morgana grinned as he crossed his arm, but his confidence pose was quickly discarded when he heard the others calling for him. "Well, I got to go and get my few licks in, Lady Shiho. We'll be back in no time!" With a wink, the cat like creature ran off towards the rest of her friends and classmate were.
Was it, perhaps really possible to win and get out of her safely after all?
Shiho truly doubted it, but since it was her only real hope… she'll grasp hold of it as much as she could.
"How dare you deny King Kamoshida's love, you selfish lass!?" Masumi glared at the demon that had appeared in distaste. Masumi hadn't expected Kamoshida to fight directly, the last time they had him dead to sights, he had retreated while leaving one of his minions to distract them.
It wasn't any different this time, the knight that stood protectively over Kamoshida had morphed into this… purple colored potty training demon. It filled Masumi with disgust even before he opened his mouth.
"Pay for this insolence with your life!" He demanded sternly before eating a bullet to his chest from Masumi.
"That dirtbag just sees women as sexual outlets! Don't make me laugh with that "love" bullshit." Ann snarled, even more furious than she was and Masumi allowed her to take the lead as her back arched in anger.
The Persona behind Ann, for it must be one, was named "Carmen" and it seemed to acknowledge the two, no, three of them. Morgana was still helping to relocate Shiho.
"Woah, I didn't expect this." Ryuji gulped as he stared at the very menacing but still attractive female with twin tails.
"C'mon Carmen! Let's give them hell! Masumi-chan, Ryuji too!" She gestured for them to go forward, but faltered when she realized her weapon was a whip, and the floating demon was out of her reach for now.
"Err- I'm still new to this, sort of anyway!" Ann blustered while Masumi and Ryuji charged forward, ignoring her mistake.
"You'll learn along the way! Try to use magic first!" Ryuji shouted as he slid forward smoothly in front of Ann as he called upon Captain Kidd. "Zio!" He cried and a blast of lightning struck the Demon, making it flinch and dropping it closer to the ground.
Masumi didn't wait up, doing several slashes on the Demon's legs and arms before leaping back as it swung his arms in a circular fashion. The strength of the demon was such that it created a shockwave that pushed all three of them back.
"I don't really know how!" Ann hissed in annoyance but stopped when she heard something, or someone whisper into her ear.
"Agi-!" Ann spoke softly while closing her eyes but the moment she finished, a small fireball engulfed the demon, searing it and knocking it to the ground proper.
To Masumi's relief, it landed upright, meaning that they didn't get flashed by.. whatever it was hiding. A very good thing.
"That was amazing, Lady Ann!" Morgana praised Ann as he arrived to back up the team, but he turned serious when Masumi whistled, gesturing all of them for an All out Attack.
"Right, we're going to beat the hell out of it now." Ryuji explained as he slapped his metal pipe against his palm menacingly. Ann returned with a smirk of her own as she slammed her whip in the air to test it out.
"Well, only way for me to know how to wield this is through experience, right?"
"To think… there would be a woman… who could stand up to King Kamoshida…" The demon moaned as dropped to the ground once more. He stared in fatigue at Ann, who was wielding a shotgun that Masumi had helped her materialize. With that menacing weapon aimed at the demon, Ann scoffed while commenting.
"Outside of school, that guy's nothing but a pathetic loser. So long." The recoil from the weapon was more than Ann expected, but the number of shots it let off was enough to perforate the demon with ease.
"Wow, that's some kickback." Ann chuckled nervously while letting the firearm down, she was exhausted from the fight and was far from the only individual who had struggled.
Despite being worn down quickly by the flames produced by Carmen, the demon had managed to wear down Ryuji with it's area of effect wind spells. Masumi didn't even know that their Personas had areas where they were weak to. But seeing how some monsters had that same weakness, she shouldn't have been surprised.
Ryuji, had been forced to retreat, getting Shiho to a safer location while the remaining trio had dealt with the demon in the end.
"Alright, we done here?" Ryuji called from another corner of the room as he helped Shiho to where the others were. He had been frustrated that he had to retreat from the front lines, but he had been busy. More shadows had emerged, and he had taken his frustration out at them. He was sweaty and exhausted like the rest, even Masumi wasn't feeling well with all the energy she had exerted.
"Suzui doesn't look good you guys, and neither is Ann." Ann was down on her knees, panting while Morgana was being held back by an amused Masumi.
"Take your time to recover your breath, Lady Ann." Morgana squirmed in Masumi's tight grip but his concern was written all over his face. Masumi was amused, but also didn't want him anywhere Ann at this point.
"You guys… this is what you mean huh? And… well, I don't know what or who this is." Ann gestured as she sat down on the floor in her exhausted state.
"I'm Morgana, Lady Ann. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance."
"Morgana then… where are we? One minute we're outside the school after you jerks pushed us out, and next we're here."
"Ann… they did imply to us that it was dangerous…" Shiho defended the trio quietly and Ann blushed.
"I guess… I didn't know that it'll be this dangerous. We'll be… in a bad way if you guys haven't saved us."
"Just calm down, everything's going to be okay." Morgana tried to reassure them but it was Masumi who helped the most by asking Ryuji to place Shiho besides Ann. The two friends embraced, Shiho hesitantly while Ann hugged her friend tighter.
"I'm just glad we got here in time." Masumi remarked as she placed a hand on her shoulder, letting the two girls reassure each that they are safe.
...
...
"Why am I dressed like this though…" Ann remarked quietly after the two separated. She was taking things well, Masumi supposed it was because Shiho was here that Ann was less high strung. Shiho had a hand wrapped over Ann's after all.
"... You guys better not be staring. And you're a guy right?" Ann scowled fiercely at Morgana, who backed away sheepishly. Ryuji had been trying hard not to stare the entire time while Masumi shrugged.
"Morgana is a guy yes, he's supposedly a human…." Masumi trailed off, unsure what to say but wondering if she could offer her jacket to her. She never tried, but her jacket was… odd anyway. It healed from cuts and burns, whatever she suffered, she could fix it by healing herself. Odd, but she wasn't going to question.
"Easy for you to say, Masumi-chan. You're all covered up? I'm like, in this… fetish suit. I didn't even change into it!" Ann shrieked in the end while Shiho laughed nervously, knowing Ann was right. It had just happened after all.
"As much as I want to explain it now, we have to leave now. Reinforcements from Kamoshida will appear sooner rather than later. Can you stand, Lady Ann, Lady Shiho? We have to make our escape now."
Ryuji agreed, he was exhausted after fending off the swarm of knights and as fired up as he was to end it now, he wasn't going to put himself and the girls at risk. Especially Shiho, she looked dead on her feet.
"I'll carry Shiho. Ryuji, do you mind helping Ann?"
"Just lean on me or something if you're worried." Ryuji offered and Ann nodded, getting to her feet and following the lead of the others as they made their escape.
Aoyama Itchome
"Alright, we're… safe here." Ryuji panted after they exited the alternate reality with Morgana in tow, with him reverting to a cat form.
"Stop doing that, Lady Masumi!" Morgana complained as she was picked up by the scruff of his neck by Masumi, who just gave him the stink eye to be quiet.
"Are you two feeling alright? It's always disorienting the first time." Shiho was clutching onto Ann fearfully while Ann looked very relieved that she was now dressed in her own clothes again.
"I'm okay. Are you okay, Shiho?" Ann asked in worry while Shiho nodded.
"Let's go find a place to sit so we can explain to you what we know? We shouldn't be out in the first place." Masumi scratched her chin nervously while Shiho gasped, shaking her head.
"No – no, it's our fault, and… as much as I want to, we have to go back. My parents would worry, and I don't want to cause more problems for you, Masumi-chan."
"It's not a bother, we wanted to help you." Masumi repeated while Ryuji grinned, and added on.
"We won't let Kamoshida win, not any more. I'm just sorry you had to face him again, we didn't think it'll happen like that." Ryuji sounded sheepish and guilty and it was Ann who apologized next.
"It's my fault for following you guys when you guys said we shouldn't… I should have listened and trusted you, Masumi-chan…"
"I don't wish to interrupt, but both Lady Masumi and Lady Shiho are right. We should leave this place immediately to avoid drawing more suspicion. Where should we head to?" Ann and Shiho's eyes widened at hearing or perhaps seeing Morgana speak as a cat, a real cat.
..
"That's so weird… I'm really talking to a cat huh? But, maybe only for a while… I have to get Shiho back home. And Masumi-chan should be resting at school."
Both valid points and Masumi nodded in agreement.
"It's better to clear things up a little. It's only natural that the two of you are confused, it'll be too much to expect you two to understand or accept it so easily." Morgana chipped in before guiding the entire group to the train station, where they found an area where they could rest and not be overheard.
..
..
"Honestly, I still can't believe what happened…" Ann confessed after taking a sip of the drink that Masumi and Ryuji had gotten them before.
"And that… power? My Persona…?"
"It's the will of your rebellion, Lady Ann and with it, you'll be able to fight in that other world." Morgana explained while Masumi shrugged, it was really exactly as what Morgana said.
"I don't even want to begin imagine how that must feel…" Shiho muttered, looking lost and a little worried but Masumi shook her head and reassured her.
"It's not as bad as you might think. Medea, my Persona, is myself after all."
"So, if what you told me is true. We can make Kamoshida have a change of heart, right? Is it really possible…? Can we actually force him to confess his crimes?" Both Ann and Shiho had been told of what their master plan is, or rather, their last ditch plan.
"We don't have a better idea at this point. All we can do is try." Masumi shrugged again while Ryuji added on.
"The volleyball team's keeping it quiet. While teachers and parents turn a blind eye to whatever he's doing. If guys like us try and complain, they're just going to shoot us down. This is our only shot, unless you have better ideas?"
Ryuji sounded both defiant and defensive at the same time, agitating Shiho as well.
"Even so - it's too dangerous. We, you could have been killed there right? It's not worth getting killed like this."
Shiho was both concerned and guilt stricken, if her friends were to get hurt or even killed because of her, she wouldn't know what to do.
"... I'm willing to take the risk." Masumi replied firmly without hesitation. She wanted revenge, both for Shiho, Ann and also for herself too.
"You can't get the big fish if you aren't willing to go big. What is it that they say, go big or go home?" Ryuji grinned as well, making Shiho cringe in disbelief but she settled down when Ann squeezed her hand reassuringly.
"We'll do our best to stay safe, but we can't promise that we won't be hurt. You two got hurt, right?" Masumi tried to reason with Shiho, who nodded slowly in agreement.
"If we don't do this, more people would be hurt, right?" Masumi continued reasoning while Ryuji nodded in agreement as well.
"Then we have to do this, I'm not letting anyone else get hurt because of Kamoshida if we can do something about it." It was really as simple as that.
"And a part of it is to get even too." Masumi grinned weakly in confession while Ryuji nodded.
"What Masumi said, I mean, I'm there to kick his butt too. If I get to do that and take him down, it'll really be the proudest moment of my life. I'll do whatever it takes to make sure he pays for what he did to me, and the team."
"My my my… such vengeful individuals." Morgana commented, breaking into the conversation as he sat down besides Ann.
"But there's nothing wrong with using vengeance as your conviction. He did all of you wrong, and you have the right to dish some back in return. It's as good as any reason, as long as you follow those ideals to the end." Morgana remarked and Ann cut in as well.
"Let me help too, I want to make him pay for what happened to Shiho. All those false pretences of being concerned, he just wants to find a weakness so he can exploit. I'll never forgive him."
Ryuji looked as if he was about to refuse her offer, but then took a quick glance at Masumi, who raised an eyebrow in confusion.
"...It'll be dangerous though. And she did enter the place by herself before, what's stopping her from going in by herself again?"
"Common sense?! I can't believe you guys are taking this so lightly! It's dangerous, you might get killed. I-I don't want to see you guys get hurt…" Shiho interrupted and then fell silent after realizing there was no one here who was sane, they were all committed to the plan.
"Shiho, I… I know it's dangerous, but, I have to do this. I don't think that we'll ever get peace if I don't do it. Let me protect you this time." Ann pressed her forehead against the crying Shiho, trying to reassure her even as Masumi dragged Ryuuji to the side to give them some privacy.
"For everyone's sake. I'll do whatever it takes to protect you, Shiho."
?
"I doubt something as dangerous as your group could've been pulled off with orthodox methods." Niijima Sae mused while watching her prime subject sway ever so slightly in the seat in front of her.
At times she barely seemed conscious, in any other circumstances she would think that she was drunk. But the drugs that was given to her was just as bad.
Then again - in another other circumstances, Sae would say what she was relaying to her was science fiction, if they haven't crossed the boundary months ago.
"It wouldn't be odd if you had someone that was proficient in deceiving the eyes of others…"
"Pay attention! If you're listening, then answer me!"
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 Lovers Persona, I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall lead to freedom and new power.
Aoyama Itchome
It took a while before Shiho and Ann recovered from their private bonding session but Shiho wasn't convinced still.
"... I don't like it, but I really can't stop you… so, all I can ask is for you to stay safe." Shiho mumbled in defeat while the rest just nodded in understanding.
"We'll do our best. And we really should head back now. Let's decide on a place to meet next time."
"So – a few days later then? Masumi's "sick"-" Ryuji elaborated with quotation marks while Masumi shrugged. "We can meet after school? Suzui's on leave from school right?"
"Perhaps at Shiho-chan's place? She'll be happier with more visitors, and you're all friends." Ann suggested while Masumi winced a little, remembering what Shiho's mother had reacted. But she softened subsequently too, Shiho really needed friends at her time of need.
"That'll be good. Ann should head over there with Ryuji too, for both of your sakes. You wouldn't want to be alone with Kamoshida." Ann nodded at that, after what she knew Kamoshida could do, she didn't want to be anywhere him.
"Ryuji helped Shiho too right? But if Ann brought him over, or at least made an excuse to bring him over, the rumours won't be that bad if they find out that you visited Shiho by yourself." Masumi then scowled, shaking her head. "And Kamoshida won't hesitate to spread those rumours to discredit the two of them further."
Shiho only looked depressed at that, while Ryuji looked furious. Ann however just nodded in agreement.
"He did spread the rumors that I was dating Kamoshida as well… he'll make things worse. I'll swing by school and pick you up, Sakamoto. Oh wait – I guess I can call you Ryuji." Ann sniffed, her arms crossed, trying to make it a big deal to hide her awkwardness in wishing to thank Ryuji.
Not that Ryuji noticed as he looked troubled, or looked like he was thinking.
"Maybe I can talk to my homeroom teacher first. So she'll know that I might want to go see her, you know? Might be a good thing." Thinking then, Ryuji is taking this seriously.
"That's a splendid idea, Ryuji. Let's meet up at Lady Shiho's place then. Allow me to escort the two ladies home." Morgana wriggled harder and out of Masumi's grip as he ran towards the other two girls.
"I insist. I will be able to protect you. I wouldn't sleep well if you two are attacked on your way back."
"Kamoshida is going to be soooooooooooo mad…" Ann groaned, but looked satisfied too.
"Nah – he won't, well, maybe a little but he won't know what happened there. That isn't Kamoshida, but it's also him." Ryuji looked just as confused as his words and Masumi giggled softly at that.
"We shouldn't keep the two of you, but if I catch you trying to sneak into Shiho's home, I'll make sure you really have nightmares." Masumi threatened while Morgana sat on his haunches while looking scandalized.
"I would never-!"
Aoyama Itchome - Train Station
"Will you be fine by yourself? Maybe I should escort you back after all." Ryuji was concerned, and Masumi was thankful, but it wasn't necessary. She didn't need Sojiro interrogating him, or having him around for her check up with Tae sensei.
"I'll be fine. I told Sakura-san that I am heading back now. I have a clinical appointment to attend later tonight too." Masumi smiled reassuringly and thanked him again. "Thanks for your concern, Ryuji. I really appreciate it."
"No problem, I gotta look out my friends right?" Ryuji chuckled before giving her a lazy salute while she left, waving to him before she headed for the escalators. It was still the afternoon, if technically so. It would be great to head back before the evening rush hour.
Pulling her phone out, she smiled at the new group conversation that had been created between her, Ryuji, Ann and Shiho. It was a group of people that she would gratefully called them as friends. They had been through a very exhilarating and tiring time together after all. Nothing like bonding through life and death, right?
...
...
Of course, Masumi didn't know that she would be a subject of a life-and-death situation so quickly until it was too little, too late.
Le Blanc
Masumi knocked on the front door to Le Blanc, signalling her entry before entering the small café. The smell of coffee assaulted her senses but what made her wary was the amused look that Sojiro had as he greeted her.
"You should head back upstairs now."
"Sure?" She accepted his request. It wasn't a bad request, but he seemed to find amusement in her doing it. From her experience, it didn't bode well at all.
"Before that, how's Suzui doing. Is she doing better? You were there for a while."
"She's doing better; she could be better. But she has Ann. She'll be fine in time." Masumi was certain of that, with someone as supportive as Ann, they'll be able to get through this.
"That's good. She has you as well, and that Sakamoto boy. You really treasure your friends. Which is a good thing." Sojiro seemed to be looking at someone else altogether, lost in thought but then snapped back to reality before nodding.
"Well, off you go then. Not a good thing to keep her waiting." Someone was expecting her? Was Tae sensei here so early? But if Sojiro gave the okay, perhaps it'll be fine?
Big, big mistake, Masumi fought the fight or flight reflex as she saw who was it that was in her 'room'.
"So would you mind explaining to me why you were outside when you should be sick, Kurusu?" Niijima senpai asked with a raised eyebrow, she sitting on the couch that served as Masumi's bed.
A personal visit by the student council president wasn't exactly normal, especially with her being in school for less than a month. That explained the amusement from Sojiro however, why would he have allowed Niijima senpai to her room in the first place!?
"I… I…" Masumi stammered, trying to get a grip of herself while Niijima senpai's glare only got stronger. She felt extremely guilty for lying to Sojiro already, but in the face of an individual that would pick apart her lies? Masumi was sweating both figuratively and literally as she refused to meet eye contact with Niijima senpai.
"Kurusu, this isn't an interrogation. However, it might turn into one if you lie to me. I am concerned about your wellbeing. I will ask you one more time, why were you outside of your home?"
Niijima senpai spoke evenly as she crossed her arms, calming herself down with controlled breaths as she waited for an answer.
Various thoughts went through Masumi's mind, but one thing stood out.
Niijima senpai has always been her ally, and she was helping Shiho wasn't she? She wouldn't berate her for helping her friend, right?
"I, I was out trying to find a way to get Kamoshida sensei to confess…" Masumi blurted out and that reply caused Niijima senpai to look blankly at her for a moment, trying to figure out what she meant before she ran a hand down her face in exasperation.
"Ser-... Please, elaborate…"
Any talks about Palaces, Castles, Personas, Monsters and even Kings were bound to be dismissed so Masumi told Niijima senpai about how she and Ryuji was going about the place, trying to find people who would testify against Kamoshida.
"You two… tried that? That's absurd… no one will risk being in Kamoshida sensei's bad books by testifying against him." Niijima senpai's confession on the situation and power of Kamoshida was another blow to their aspirations, but it just highlighted how important their mission had become.
They were the only ones who could save Shiho, and so… she'll save Shiho with her friends, no matter the consequences.
"I have to. She's my friend. I'm not going to let anyone hurt her the way Kamoshida has, and will if no one stops him. I can't just stand by like that!" She spoke up fiercely, startling Niijima senpai who hadn't expected that at all.
The fierceness of Kurusu when it came to defending her friend surprised Makoto, but it shouldn't have considering how Kurusu had scaled that fence to save her friend. Her fierce loyalty had been reckless, but it was something that she had respected. The rumours spreading around school had consisted of her as well, seeing her go all out for a friend of hers had made her reputation grow.
Makoto honestly shouldn't be surprised and she softened her stance, knowing how desperate the situation must be for her when she couldn't do anything at all to help her friend.
"Kurusu, I can't say I understand how you feel." And she couldn't, it would be a lie. Makoto had never had someone who she'll go all out for besides her sister, but her sister could take care of herself just fine.
"I would like to say that being so loyal to your friend is admirable, amazing even. To go to that degree for your friend is something that I am awed by. However, I must stress that you mustn't endanger yourself or your friends to help Suzui. If you had gotten hurt due to her, she would be hurt as well. Your frustration with your inability to help is understandable. But please, do not interfere with the investigation as you might do more harm than good. If you must help, then be a support to Suzui in her tough times." Niijima senpai paused before clasping Masumi's hands.
"But I want to reassure you that I will do my utmost, in my entirety to help Suzui. If there is something I can do to help, I will. It is my duty, and my privilege to say this to you, that as the Student Council President, I will aid any student in need."
It was due to Kurusu's influence that she remembered her pledge to the student community, that she was elected to help the student body.
Her position might be hers for the taking – having no competition. And admittedly she has her own motive for taking that position. But that feeling of pride and joy at winning the election wasn't fake, it was something she relished deeply.
Her dream might not give her the glory and reputation she secretly craved, but it would make her proud. It wasn't a stretch to say that her dream was similar to her current position, and why she was able to proudly declare to Kurusu her intent.
Her position might be given to her, and she might be viewed as a placeholder but what won't be changed was the ability and the authority to give aid to the people that needed it. That was the job of the student council president after all.
"Justice will prevail, and I will do everything I can to make sure it happens that way. If you wish for my assistance, or if you find something notable, please inform me. I will follow it up on your stead."
Masumi was moved, and although sceptical, she was more than convinced that Niijima senpai was one of their allies. She had finally began to believe what was obvious, that Kamoshida was a monster. Although Masumi wasn't exactly confident in her being able to stop Kamoshida, having someone accepting her resolve and decision to help in anyway, was a godsent.
"We do not need you endangering the investigation with your actions, Kurusu. I hope you would understand that. You might inadvertently hand victory over to Kamoshida sensei on a silver platter." She huffed, blushing a little as she let go of Masumi's hands.
"Now where were we… Ah yes, here, today's assignment. I believe Sakamoto was supposed to pass the homework to you, but he neglected to pick it up." Niijima senpai brushed her fringe a little before smiling at Kurusu.
"Honestly, Suzui is blessed to have a friend like you. The same goes for Takamaki, I hope that she does realizes that. But enough about the topic, shall we continue our lessons then?" The glint in her eyes returned and Masumi swallowed when she asked numbly.
"Lessons?" She should have known that Niijima senpai won't be letting her off that easily.
"Indeed. We have an arrangement made for your study sessions, am I not wrong? Since you are feeling well enough to leave your home, we shall continue the lessons that you have requested." Niijima senpai's eyes glinted ominously as she settled herself better while reaching for her school bag. Masumi's feeling of dread grew as she watched her pull out several folders from it. Why were there so many papers? That bag can't possibly fit so many! Even her 'powers' in the other world would seem tame as compared to the amount of papers being produced by that magical device.
"Ehhh?! But Niijima senpai!" Niijima senpai's smile grew as Masumi paled, she was enjoying this alright and Masumi was ready to bolt for the hills when Niijima senpai grabbed her wrist tightly.
"I was saving this for another week, but I suppose that since you are feeling well enough to leave your home instead of resting, you can start on this early. Now start by finishing these questions, Kurusu!"
The growing smirk on Niijima senpai's face was surely due to humour right? Right?
"Come in!" The sounds of a bell being rung shook the girls from their intense study session, and it really was intense, Niijima senpai was a slave driver when it came to studies. Masumi had no choice but to oblige lest she was faced with that disapproving glare that would bring men to their knees in utter defeat, let alone her feeble and weak self.
Medea's laughter at the back of her head was just contributing to her bad mood. It had nothing to do with how she felt that if she were to try and escape, Niijima senpai would hunt and take her down with ease.
Even if she might have supernatural powers, Masumi had no doubt that between the two of them, who would be coming up on top.
"My my, you two sure are busy girls." Sojiro's voice confused them till he pointed to the windows, showing that it was already night.
"Oh, oh my…" Niijima senpai looked both sheepish and shocked that the time had just sped by while Masumi looked both relieved and embarrassed.
"My apologies for taking so much of your time, Kurusu." Niijima senpai accepted the glass of ice water from Sojiro before taking him. "Thank you for your hospitality, Sakura-san."
"I cooked dinner for the two of you, so get it while it's hot. I think that's enough study for the day."
Sojiro offered while raising a hand to stop Niijima senpai from objecting
"You wouldn't want to waste the food, would you? Besides – I do owe you for paying so much attention to my charge, especially since she just transferred to the school." Sojiro nodded approvingly at Niijima senpai whose cheeks are mildly red.
"Please accept my hospitality as thanks."
"Thank you for the meal, Sakura-san." Niijima Makoto had been reluctant to stay for the meal, but Sakura-san had been insistent, he had even offered to call her parents to get her to stay.
In the end she relented, texting her sister for permission. Unsurprisingly it was granted, her sister was working late again after all. She was surprised but glad about the offer however, which made it more acceptable to Makoto herself.
It was also the first time she had coffee with curry rice, but it was delightful curry. Kurusu seemed to agree, she had dug in with gusto, a few times she even looked like she was crying as she ate.
"Hmm… like I said, please accept it as my thanks for looking out for this kid." Sakura-san who was sitting on the opposite side of the counter with his own cup of coffee, simply grunted while sipping. Oddly enough he didn't partake in dinner, only commenting that he cooked enough for Kurusu to have it as breakfast as well.
"It is delicious. Though I did not have coffee with curry before." Makoto complimented and a smile formed on Sakura-san's face.
"It brings out the flavour. The house blend is always recommended with curry."
The conversation lapsed into silence for a while before he spoke again while Kurusu was taking the dinner plates for cleaning. Makoto looked unsure whether to offer her help even as Sakura-san gave Kurusu a lopsided grin at her initiative.
"Do you know that Kamoshida fellow tried to bring Masumi back to his place yesterday?"
Sojiro's damning words made Kurusu freeze even as Makoto's spoon dropped onto the table with a clatter.
"What?" She mouthed the word softly but everyone could hear it even as Kurusu shot a betrayed look at Sakura-san, who himself was unrepentant.
"That's the monster your school is trying to protect, wanted to take advantage of Masumi here."
Kurusu flinched and struggled to keep her grip on the dishes as two glares froze her on the spot.
"Kurusu? Explain yourself."
The interrogation, for it was that, lasted for the better half of an hour. It was a traumatic scenario for Masumi, but it was also therapeutic as it made it easier for her to relate the situation to that of a negative one.
That and it made her feel happier and guiltier at seeing Niijima senpai growing angrier and angrier as she related the tale.
"Unacceptable. That is harassment, blackmail and abuse of his position as a teacher. Your records were sealed and he has no right to access them like this. Even Kawakami sensei was only read in after the Principal insisted she was aware of the unique circumstances you were subjected to." Niijima senpai revealed, making Masumi nod slowly in acceptance.
"In truth, I only know as Kawakami sensei did the same to keep a tighter eye on you."
"So what do you think? I'm… I'm not that person." Masumi asked, begged really as Niijima senpai frowned.
"I admit that it worried me, but I have always tried to use first-hand information to judge a person. Regardless of your past, you are a studious individual. I have come to respect you even more as compared to before, as what you have gone through must have been terrible." Niijima senpai explained, causing Sojiro to snort but then nod in agreement.
"One's past doesn't just go away, but it's good that you have someone who can look past that, Masumi."
"Yes… thank you for believing in me, Niijima senpai."
She brushed it off but smiled very thinly while looking at Sojiro.
"Is there a reason why you haven't reported this to the school, or to the authorities?"
"The word of someone with a past conviction against an Olympic winner? Not to mention the crime that Masumi was falsely charged under, would the authorities even investigate her claim?"
It seems that it'll never gets old, the happiness that Masumi felt about someone believing him but the conflicted look on Niijima senpai's face made her falter.
"I admit, that reporting this incident to the school would be a fool's errand. Sakura-san, I am unsure if you are aware but Kamoshida sensei wields great influence and power within the school. He would be made aware of this accusation in short order and quash it." Niijima senpai's shoulders slumped as she closed her eyes.
"I have attempted to pursue some cases, but unfortunately my influence has its limits. There is nothing that passes by the principal's office that he has not gone through."
"And you are aware? Who does he think he is? He's just another teacher." Sojiro was livid now but Niijima senpai simply shrugged helplessly in response.
"He is Kamoshida Suguru sensei, Olympic medal winner and a huge draw for the school. He has had a perfect record, and his peers rate him highly. Of course, he didn't achieve this without help. The principal supports him fully as he has ensured the volleyball team excel at the national levels. The prestige of the team would overshadow any issues that might develop from his coaching."
Sojiro sighed as Niijima senpai confirmed his suspicions.
"Furthermore, unless Kurusu recorded the conversation between then, it would only be circumstantial at best."
"We do have a witness, but Takemi… she won't testify, she has her reasons, Masumi." Sojiro shook his head while Masumi nodded. She understood that it won't be that easy.
"And audio recordings aren't always useful, they might argue that it was part of your ploy to entrap Kamoshida sensei to blackmail him as well. Considering your reputation and record, it would only serve to vilify him and make him bolder. You might end up having to compensate him in court as well." Niijima senpai explained calmly before frowning.
"Is that the why you decided to take a few days of absence? You are avoiding Kamoshida sensei at school?"
...
"As troubling as the situation is, I do agree that this is a situation that justifies your decision. I trust that the medical practitioner is discrete?" With Sojiro's confirmation, Niijima senpai nodded in satisfaction.
"I will keep this between us, off the record so to speak, I wish you best in your recovery and hope to see you back in school soon." She dusted herself off as she stood up, before offering a hand to Sojiro, who looked surprised.
"Knowing the circumstances of the situation, I will do my utmost to protect Kurusu. I will look into more options and hope that we stay in touch." She bowed formally to Sojiro, who followed her example, but not as deep as hers was.
Masumi was going to do the same but Niijima senpai stopped her by putting a hand on her shoulder.
"Don't, it's my fault for not noticing. And you placed your trust in me so far." She scratched her cheek, looking awkward when Sojiro cut in.
"You are a good friend of Masumi-chan, Niijima."
"Friend?"
"Yes, only a friend would react in that way. You two are friends, aren't you?"
Kurusu insisted in seeing her to the station despite the risk she was taking, Kamoshida sensei might be laying in wait for her after all, but the stubborn junior insisted and she had relented eventually.
The short walk to the station wasn't filled with conversation, just Kurusu shooting her thankful looks all throughout. It… was a good feeling she supposed?
"Thank you for believing me again, senpai…"
Makoto decided to be brave for once, just like this individual who was so brave and yet so fragile at the same time. She carried burdens more than she ever could so far. It was, something she could definitely respect.
"Call me Makoto, Kurusu. I'm your friend aren't I?" The question seemed to take the winds out of Kurusu's sails but she recovered quickly enough as well.
"I, if it's okay… then we are friends, Makoto-senpai. Please, please call me Masumi too."
?
"There must've been people who obstructed your actions as the Phantom Thieves. You managed to overcome them because you had someone who specialized in analyzing enemies... ...Isn't that right!?"
Niijima Sae growled while slamming a fist on the table, the frustration showing as her main suspect refused to give an inch despite knowing everything was crumbling around her.
She knew who was helping her, and it pained her to know that it was her sister. It was her, right?
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 Priestess Persona, I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall lead to freedom and new power.