Chapter IX: Fractured Family Bonds


As Hifumi and Skyler escorted their kids, Shu, and the others into their property, they were greeted by a woman and an owl at the front.

"Welcome home, Skyler and Hifumi," the woman formally addressed the couple.

"Same to you, Otoboshi," Skyler kindly responded.

Hifumi scoffed. "Yes, as you say."

Otoboshi is seen as an alluring Japanese woman with long, back-length black hair tied up in a traditional Japanese way with a white decorative clip and with long strands of hair hanging on her left and right sides. She is seen garbed in a black kimono with a multi-colored flower motif embellished on the front coupled with white jika-tabi, which from a glance are split-toed thonged footwear. Her light complexion made her stand out even more than Hifumi, who, too, was also light and fair-skinned, but Otoboshi has paler skin that almost looked alabaster.

Sitting on the woman's left shoulder is her pet female owl that has the physical appearance of a Eurasian eagle-owl, and the white-colored feathers and dark spots of a snowy owl.

Otoboshi answered with an alluring smile. "Don't worry I've arranged the guest table and seats." Then, she shifted toward Heath, Akiko, Shu, Inori, Ayase, and Walter. "Welcome children, I am Honda Otoboshi. And welcome back, Heath and Akiko. We've missed having you two around."

After petting the owl, Akiko said nothing, but Heath gave a polite bow to Otoboshi and patted her pet owl's head.

"And welcome guests. Oh, it's good to see Heath and Akiko bringing friends along," Otoboshi kindly greeted Shu and the others.

"Same to you, miss," Shu replied while admiring the owl. "Wow, what a pretty owl. Does it have a name?"

"She has a name. Her name is Yukinko. She is my pet snowy owl/Eurasian eagle-owl. Fear not, she's very docile and enjoys nice head patting," Otoboshi answered as the owl let out a high-pitched bark coupled with hooting. Shifting her yellow eyes around, Yukinko watched Shu and Inori approach her.

"Thank you for greeting us on the way in," Inori bowed while patting Yukinko's head, eliciting a low-pitched screech and barking. "She's a beautiful bird. Yes, aren't you pretty?"

"Yes, it seems she likes you two," Otoboshi genuinely smiled.

"I wonder if she's the caretaker of this place?" Ayase muttered quietly. She also patted Yukinko, eliciting some low barking and beak clamping.

"Well, actually… you'll find out soon enough," Heath answered.

"Oh, you're clamping that beak again. Looks like you're ready to be fed, Yukinko. Don't worry we'll get you something after we get the guests inside," Otoboshi lovingly said while stroking her head feathers.

Having been welcomed into their household as guests, Shu, Inori, Ayase, and Walter sat in the dining room listening to Heath and Akiko's parents' stories about their kids. Heath and Akiko sat away from their parents, watching and listening to every word. Akiko, especially, wore an agitated look when facing Hifumi's direction.

"It's good to finally meet and get to know you, Mr. and Mrs. Togo-Jones," Shu stated.

"Please, you can just call us Skyler and Hifumi," Skyler replied.

"That is if you wish to call us that, but I've grown accustomed to being Mrs. Togo-Jones," Hifumi added, waving a hand fan over her face and chortling.

"You have such a beautiful home here," Inori keenly observed the elaborate household.

"Thank you, I love furnishing the house with antiques and older art. You could say I'm a traditionalist," Hifumi said proudly.

"You sure do, mom. Isn't that right, Akiko?" Heath tried laughing while elbowing his sister's side, who barely budged.

"Pfft, yeah sure," Akiko scoffed, which slightly made Hifumi wince. She then noted that Hifumi's face regained its rigid and steely exterior.

"Well, now that you're here. Let me say that you came at a great time. There's a lot to do during this time of year. There's a festival going on. So, I hope you brought your yukatas," Skyler pointed out. He then saw the teens showing off their yukatas, which they had packed and brought with them. "Oh, already ahead of the game. Good. Well, why don't I show you all around the house?"

"That won't be necessary, dad," Akiko spoke up. "Don't worry. Heath and I can show them around."

"Huh? Are you sure?" Skyler asked his daughter.

"Yeah, why not?"

"Now, see here, young lady. That's no way to address your father!" Hifumi openly chastised Akiko.

"I wasn't cocking an attitude with dad. I only do that when I'm around you," Akiko shot back, causing tension to escalate between her and Hifumi, which Shu, Inori, Ayase, and Walter picked up on rather quickly.

"Um, I'm sorry but is everything ok?" Ayase asked Akiko, prompting Heath to answer on his sister's behalf.

"Our mom and Akiko haven't been on good terms," Heath whispered.

"Why are you whispering, bro? Go ahead. Let them know. Mom already knows how much I 'love' her," Akiko scoffed.

"I don't know what's happened between you two, but she is still your mom," Shu tried reasoning with Akiko.

"You wouldn't know what I've been through, Shu," Akiko said without averting her irked gaze on Hifumi, who lowered her hand fan and openly frowned.

"You would do this right here in front of your friends? Our guests?" Hifumi properly questioned her daughter. "Let's not even go there about what you've been through, Akiko. What about neglecting to tell us that you and your brother are involved with Funeral Parlor?! And somehow you have these powers?!"

"Who told you?!" Akiko shouted.

"Uncle Ren," bluntly answered Skyler.

"Oh, right," Akiko muttered, side-eying her parents.

"Listen, Heath and Akiko. I'll be honest. I'm worried about you two being involved with Funeral Parlor. It's dangerous times going against GHQ these days," Skyler stated. "However, despite my worries, I support your decision and the fight against GHQ."

"What?!" Hifumi yelled in aghast over what her husband said. "You support our kids involved with a dangerous renegade network?! If they're recruiting kids like Akiko and Heath…!"

"With all due respect, as young as some of us are, we've been great assets for Funeral Parlor's cause. Myself, Shu, and Inori are such examples. Regardless of your concerns, Heath and Akiko have done well for us," Ayase reaffirmed on behalf of Skyler and Hifumi's kids.

With a firm smile, Skyler nodded. "You said your name is Ayase, right?"

"Yes, sir. Shinomiya Ayase."

"Tell me. Do you know a Hanazawa Ayase?"

"Yes, that's my mother's name."

Skyler folded his arms and chuckled. "I knew it. Just from a glance, you reminded me of your mother."

"Did you know my mother?"

"We actually dated back in high school several decades ago. Moreover, I knew, and still know, Walter's parents back then, too. They were already a couple before graduation. Sadly, my relationship with your mother ended."

Upon hearing this, Ayase was taken aback by this revelation and the connection she seems to have with Heath and Akiko's father.

"I could tell you stories about me and your mother if you want. Maybe on how we met?"

Ayase nodded. "Sure, what was school like for you two? How did you meet?"

"Talking about those days does make me feel warm instead. Hanazawa Ayase was one hell of a woman," Skyler described Ayase's mother while delving deep into his fondest memories of her and their relationship.


I remember being with Hanazawa Ayase as if it were yesterday. She and I used to be inseparable in high school. She was my old flame long before I met Hifumi. We got to know each other by senior year. I remember when we first met, she had long black hair pulled back into a ponytail, her dull red-brown eyes that were filled with resolve, and her tan complexion that looked caramel. I vividly recall her wearing a white dress shirt under the girls' long-sleeved steel blue school uniform, the maroon, black, and green embroidered knee-length skirt, black shin-length socks, and brown polished dress shoes.

Before we met, she had no real friends until meeting me and my group. She was in the same class and grade as Leonard and me. She was feared among students due to her reputation of being a street brawler and rumors spread she was part of some underground street gang. Every student was deathly afraid of approaching her. She seemed ok being in solitude, but I could tell she wanted friends. So, I was the first to approach Ayase. Based on my first impression, she was surprised someone even approached her for a conversation. But, she was more than happy to talk.

I learned two things about her.

"You're a practitioner of how many martial arts styles?!" Skyler was taken aback when the black-haired Ayase counted with her fingers.

"Um, about five different styles. Maybe more? I'm proficient in judo and was raised as a martial arts monk. I've also learned Kickboxing, Karate, Taekwondo, Muay Thai, and even Capoeira."

"But, Capoeira is a Brazilian-styled martial art?"

"Yeah, I learned some of that."

"Damn, maybe you should teach me?"

Ayase gave a soft chuckle. "Are you ok with a woman being your instructor?"

"Sure, I don't mind. I'll be learning from you, Ayase."

Also to my surprise, there was another talent I never expected a tough-as-nails girl like Ayase would have.

"Your bento boxes look delicious. Who makes them? Your mom?"

Ayase nodded and smiled. "Nope, I made them."

"But, they look so… cute and…"

"Girly? Is that what you were going to say?" Ayase gave an intense glare, intimidating him.

"No, I wasn't going to say…"

Ayase giggled. "Oh, you should've seen that timid look on your face. I was only playing!"

"Man, don't scare me like that!"

A girl who could beat your ass and make cute and delicious bento boxes. Who knew I'd meet someone like her, much less her becoming my girlfriend. Over time, Ayase slowly warmed up to me despite having some arguments. I became her first real friend. We became attached and ultimately we became the couple of the whole school. She also befriended my closest friend Leonard.

It was around this time that Jacob and I were rivals and got involved in a lot of fights. When she would see us fight, Ayase would get involved and pull us apart. She wouldn't hesitate to slam us on our asses, and she could hang with the toughest guys on the streets.

I remember when Jacob and I were about to punch each other at once, Ayase grabbed both of us and judo tossed both of us!

After laying out both me and Jacob, I saw Ayase standing with arms crossed and intense eyes glaring down at us. I also saw Madeline, who was at the time starting to go out with Jacob. So, no, there was no cliched high school love triangle thing going on with us. Jacob and Madeline stuck together.

"Jacob, are you ok?!" Madeline hurried over and checked on him, who wiped the blood from his bottom lip.

"I'll be ok, Madeline. What the hell was that for, Ayase?!" Jacob yelled at her.

"You two shouldn't be fighting on school grounds and I don't want to see you suspended again," Ayase scoffed.

"Did you have to slam me down, too?" Skyler whined.

"You had to learn the hard way, Sky," Ayase referred to him using a shortened variation of his name. She then handed her handkerchief to Skyler. "Here, wipe your face. It's got dirt and blood on it."

"But…"

"You can give it back after you wash it."

"Thanks, Ayase," Skyler said, using the handkerchief to clean his face.

"Skyler, you have one hell of a woman taking care of you," Jacob modestly addressed him. "I can respect that. You have her watching your back."

"It's too bad I can't defend Jacob the way you can for Skyler, Ayase. I'm somewhat jealous," Madeline said.

"Nonsense. You don't need to throw a fist to defend your guy. Just be there whenever he needs you. You're Jacob's moral support, right?"

Madeline meekly answered. "Yeah."

"Then, that's all you need to do."

Extending his hand to Jacob, Skyler smirked. "Hey, you want to put this rivalry behind us?"

"I don't want to cross Ayase again so… yeah, let's settle this," Jacob replied, firmly shaking Skyler's hand as both clenched each other's grip.

Since then and going forward, Jacob and I have become friends. If I hadn't met Ayase, I don't think Jacob and I would've resolved our differences. She helped shape me into the kind of man I am today.

As our senior year was near its end, we were at a crossroads of where our futures were headed. Leonard and I were planning to go to universities in Japan. My other friend, Kaito, was planning to join the JSDF. Ayase hadn't decided what she was going to do with her life after high school. However, a week before our senior prom, she and I had a private conversation. I was curious about what she wanted to tell me.

Imagine my surprise when she told me the truth.

"Listen, Skyler. Those rumors about me being involved in underground street crime? Well, it's true."

"What? You can't mean…"

"It's the truth, Skyler. Listen, I'm about to become the heir of my family's business dojo, which explains why I am such a proficient martial artist! I'm supposed to be heading up and fighting in an underground street syndicate, possibly to fight the mafia in Italy. Because of that, I can't get involved in the world outside the underground street scene. I can't involve you, Leonard, Kaito, Jacob, and Madeline! It's too dangerous for any one of you!"

Hearing this, I didn't know what to think. Was she suggesting we break up before we graduate? She seemed serious about this new direction in her life. She wouldn't be doing this if she didn't care about my and my friends' well beings.

While Ayase was willing to become the heir in taking over her family's business, at the same time, he felt restricted and bound to this generational fate.

"Because of this, I was told to cut off all communications with everyone here, including you. I'm sorry, Skyler," she genuinely said with tears in her eyes. "I didn't want this to happen! I was looking forward to life with you beyond high school! But, it can't happen. We live different lives. My days of normalcy are pretty much over. I'm uncertain of where my future will go beyond being an heir. I regret that we have to break up, Skyler. Please don't take this…"

"Personally? Ayase, I… I don't know where to begin? I…" I tried to talk her out of her situation, but she was right. We were both heading toward separate paths. She was forced to choose hers. I made my decision on what I wanted to do. Was there any way to avert this destiny of hers?

"No, there's no way out of this ordeal for me. I'm sorry Sky!" Ayase embraced me and cried on me. "I wish I could get out of this burden and wish for a normal life!"

When I returned a warm and loving embrace, I remember telling her. "Aya, even if we end up permanently separated, our hearts will remember the fond memories we had together." Saying that brought a warm smile to her face. This warmed her enough for her to kiss me.

When senior prom came, I remember Ayase's beautiful crimson dress. She stood out from the other ladies. While we danced, we referred to this memorable school event as Akane no Mai, which means deep red dance.

After prom and before school graduation, we went to my place and ended our relationship with sexual intercourse for the first and only time. Granted, we used safe sex with condoms, but that didn't change our intimate exchange.

Laying next to each other underneath bedsheets, I remembered the last words Ayase told me before she left.

"Thank you, Skyler, for being the only person I truly and feel genuinely affectionate for. Thanks for being my friend," she whispered lovingly as we kissed.

After that, we officially broke up before graduation. After our graduation, my friends and I hadn't contacted her in a long time. Not because we didn't want to, but because she cut off communications with us. Her number was gone. Her usernames and emails were erased. It was as if she ceased to exist in our lives. It was heartbreaking but I understood why she did this.

While Ayase is now focused on her future in the world of underground crime, she'll always remember the good memories to look back on without ending relationships on a bad note and leaving a glimpse of hope.


Skyler calmly smirked, facing Shinomiya Ayase knowingly. "Looks like she was able to destroy that terrible fate and find the normal life she deserved on her terms. Seeing you here is the happy ending I hoped your mother found."

"Wow, my mom never told me about this in-depth, but she did mention someone special in her life growing up. I'm glad to know it was you," Ayase smiled.

"How is your mother these days?"

"Do you not know? She died recently."

"She what…?!" Skyler gasped in utter disbelief as sadness and grief overcame him. For a moment, Hifumi consoled her husband, who became shaken up after hearing about the death of his ex-lover. "I didn't get anything. Not even an email. I regret not going to her funeral but as soon as we broke up after high school graduation she cut off ties of all old communications. That made it impossible for Hifumi and me to connect decades later. I'm very sorry, Ayase."

Nodding, Ayase smiled sadly. "No, please. Don't feel bad on my behalf, Mr. Jones. My mother died a warrior fighting the injustice GHQ brought to our country. She inspired me to become strong and fight for what's right."

"But also risking your life! Don't you hear what you're saying?! And now Heath and Akiko are deep into this ordeal?! I won't have this. Not after losing our loved ones back during Lost Christmas!" Hifumi angrily protested until Akiko stepped up and confronted her. "What do you have to say for yourself? Do you even care if something terrible happens to you and your brother?!"

"Why don't you sit and calm the fuck down, mom?! As you can already tell, we're both fine! Yeah, there was a time we got caught by GHQ, but Ayase and her friends busted our asses out and we've gained these cool ass powers! You would have to see it to believe it!"

"I don't have to! This is too dangerous for a child such as yourself!"

"We're not little kids anymore, 'mom'!" Akiko angrily responded, adding a sardonic tone to the end of her dialogue, which irked her mother enough to throw her hand fan down.

"AND WHAT DID I SAY ABOUT YOU REFERRING TO ME TO 'MOM' IN A DEROGATORY MANNER, YOUNG LADY?! SHOW SOME DIGNITY LIKE A PROPER LADY AND CALL ME 'MOTHER'!"

Akiko snapped back. "Why are you shouting? I'm not deaf y'know. I can hear you over here…"

"STOP TALKING THAT TONE WITH ME, YOU SMART ALEC!"

"FINE! YOU KNOW WHAT I THINK?! YOU STILL HAVEN'T GOTTEN OVER LOST CHRISTMAS! IT WAS TERRIBLE FOR ALL OF US, BUT YOU CONTINUE TO DWELL ON IT, AND YOUR ATTITUDE SHOWS!"

As this outburst struck a nerve in her, Hifumi's upper lip uncurled as she openly scowled. "HOW DARE YOU! PEOPLE DIED! YOUR FATHER AND I LOST FRIENDS THAT DAY!"

"DID YOU NOT HEAR ME, MOM?! IT WAS A TERRIBLE DAY FOR ALL OF US! YOU AREN'T THE ONLY ONE TO LOSE LOVED ONES! SO, GET OVER YOURSELF!"

"I WON'T SINCE YOU TWO ARE GETTING YOURSELVES INVOLVED WITH DANGER! WE DIDN'T SEND YOU OUT OF SAKAI TO JOIN A RESISTANCE GROUP! AND NOW YOU'RE WIELDING THESE THINGS!"

"THEY'RE NOT THINGS, MOM! THEY'RE CALLED VOIDS! IF YOUR HEAD WASN'T SHOVED SO FAR UP YOUR ASS, THEN YOU'D KNOW AFTER WE TOLD YOU!"

"HOW DARE YOU TALK TO ME LIKE THAT, AKIKO! YOU…!"

"NO, YOU LISTEN TO ME, MOM! I HAVE SOMETHING YOU LACK THESE DAYS AND THAT'S COURAGE! REMEMBER WHEN YOU USED TO HAVE COURAGE AND A THING CALLED A BACKBONE IN YOUR HIGH SCHOOL DAYS?! GRANDMA USED TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR POPULARITY BEFORE UNCLE REN AND THE OTHERS SAVED GRANDMA FROM DESCENT! OH, AND LET'S TALK ABOUT HOW YOU WEREN'T EVEN A PHANTOM THIEF BACK THEN! YOU WEREN'T ANYTHING BUT WATCHING FROM THE SIDELINES! AT LEAST, I'M DOING SOMETHING ON THE FRONT LINES! I'M FIGHTING AGAINST GHQ'S TYRANNY, MOM!"

Hifumi scowled. "Young lady…"

"AND BASED ON WHAT AYASE HAS TOLD ME ABOUT HER MOM, I'D RATHER SHE WERE MY MOM AND NOT YOU!"

"WHAT?! YOU TAKE THAT BACK, YOUNG LADY!"

Akiko sneered. "NO WAY! WHY DON'T YOU BE COOL LIKE AYASE'S MOM?!"

"TAKE IT BACK!"

"SAY THAT AYASE'S MOM IS COOLER THAN YOU!"

Having heard enough, Hifumi slammed her fist on a table. "NO!"

"Akiko, please that's enough!" Heath tried intervening but the fiery intensity between his sister and mother caused him to step down. He felt a hand grab him and saw Skyler holding him back.

"Don't even try, Heath," he suggested, chuckling nervously.

"AND I'M NOT THE ONE WHO NEEDLESSLY ENDED FRIENDSHIPS LIKE YOU DID WITH AUNT MAKOTO! HEY, MOM, DID YOU KNOW AUNT MAKOTO LOST HER FUCKING JOB BECAUSE HER IDENTITY WAS EXPOSED?! BUT, YOU DON'T EVEN CARE ABOUT THAT, DO YOU?! WHY NOT GIVE AUNT MAKOTO A CALL?!"

Hearing this straight from her daughter, Hifumi became flabbergasted by Makoto's unfortunate fate, which led to her termination from SIU Director.

As she combed her hand through her hair, Akiko pointed to the red hair accessory. "Do you remember when you gave this to me, mom? I didn't ask why you gave it to me. I just took it because you wanted me to have it. I had no idea it meant anything to you until recently. I understand now." She narrowed a stern gaze toward Hifumi, who was slightly shaken up but maintained her rigid look. "You gave this to me because it was the last piece of the old Togo Hifumi, someone who shared great care for her friends. You wanted me to carry on the old Hifumi's legacy. Now, all I see is an aloof ice queen who's sealed herself in her castle. Sealed and isolated herself and her children from the outside world."

"I am Togo Hifumi."

Nodding, Akiko smiled ironically. "No, you're not. You're just a frigid shell of who she used to be. Heath and I have made our choice. We're staying with Funeral Parlor whether you like it or not." She then turned over and bowed to Skyler. "Sorry for the outburst, dad."

"Well, I…" Before Skyler could finish, Hifumi shot a cold and petrifying stare that silenced him. He then saw Akiko hugging Walter for comfort.

Turning over to Ayase, Heath jokingly muttered. "Between my mom and Aunt Makoto, I can't even tell you who's scarier."

"Based on what I've seen, I wouldn't want to cross either one," Ayase whispered.

As she picked up on Heath and Ayase's murmuring, Hifumi's face contorted with irritation.

"Anyway, I apologize for that sudden outburst," Skyler addressed Shu, Inori, Ayase, and Walter. Then, he heard Akiko running up a flight of stairs crying and slamming the door in her room. "So, would you still like a tour of our home?"

"Why don't you do something, dad?" Heath asked him.

"We should just leave Akiko alone," he suggested.

Hifumi scoffed. "That girl really knows how to sting you with words alone."

"If you don't mind," Walter offered as he walked up the stairs to the second floor to talk with Akiko.

"Did things really go south between Hifumi and Makoto?" Ayase asked Skyler, who looked down.

Shu queried. "Was it that serious?"

Skyler deeply sighed. "You have no idea."


Hifumi and Makoto's conflict arose during the interval between Lost Christmas and now. I remembered vividly how it happened and as a result, it led to the unfortunate fallout between us and the former SIU Director. It started when Hifumi and I learned about Makoto's shift into a vigilante lifestyle. Naturally, as her friends, we were worried. We were worried about her mental health since her husband, wife, kids, sister, and brother-in-law died from the Apocalypse Virus.

Makoto was left living in solitude as a widow. We became worried Makoto would try anything reckless and didn't want her to go down a broken path. We wanted to get her as much help as we could.

The one who advocated getting Makoto intervention was my wife Hifumi. She hoped to get Makoto the help she needed.

But, Makoto refused help and threw it all back in Hifumi's face.

That was the last straw that broke the camel's back. This was the point when my wife became a cold and rigid woman. Makoto unknowingly caused Hifumi to change for the worse. Their arguments became more heated as time went on. Hifumi's gentle demeanor quickly eroded. Gone was my wife's kindness. Any remorse she had for Makoto was gone.

One night, we visited Makoto's place. It was perhaps a big mistake but thankfully the kids weren't here to see our violent altercation.

"I don't need your fucking help, Hifumi! How many times do I have to tell you this?!" Makoto angrily protested as Hifumi grabbed her shoulders.

"And I want you to get help, Makoto! I'm doing this for Ren and the others! We all want you to get intervention before it's too late!"

"The only therapy I need is beating up crooked lawbreakers in my city! What I do with my mental health is none of your business!" Makoto snarled, uncurling her lips as she pushed Hifumi.

"Makoto, please stop this! We're only trying to…"

"Well, I don't need your fucking help! I'll get by the rest of my life on my own and dishing out justice to the corrupt!" Makoto angrily retorted while palming her forehead and trying to contain her unbridled emotions. "Right now, I'd suggest you two back off, or I'm going to do something I might regret!" When she saw Skyler cautiously approach her, she scowled audibly like a feral beast. "BACK THE HELL OFF, SKYLER! OR, DO YOU WANT ME TO BREAK YOU?!"

Having taken enough of Makoto's verbal abuse, Hifumi's eyes darkened as she snapped and slapped Makoto's face hard. The SIU Director's face received a red welt on her left cheek, causing her to caress the throbbing red mark. Taking a few deep breaths, Hifumi panted.

Gritting her teeth and with a stern glare, Hifumi retorted. "I've had enough of you, Makoto! If you won't listen to reason, I'll slap some sense into you! It's one thing to attack me, but I won't let you harm my husband!"

Makoto was silent for a few moments. However, while balling up her fist, she waited for Hifumi to look away. In that quick moment, before I could reach my wife, Makoto furiously retaliated and punched Hifumi's face. Nearly knocking her out, Makoto pushed me away and seized my wife.

"I lost more than you ever have and will, you idiot! You still have your family! I FUCKING DON'T!" Makoto screamed while tightening her grip around the scruff of my wife's neck.

"WE'VE TRIED HELPING YOU AND THIS IS THE THANKS WE GET FROM YOU?!" Hifumi shot back with fury. "MAYBE WE SHOULDN'T HAVE BOTHERED! YOU'RE BEYOND HELP!"

"Maybe your kids should've died instead of mine, Haru, and Leonard's babies! Our babies are gone and they're never coming back!"

Hifumi yelled back with vitriolic anger. "WHAT DID YOU FUCKING SAY?! TAKE IT BACK!"

"NEVER! HELP ME BRING THEM BACK!"

As I intervened in the violent scuffle, Hifumi miraculously broke the chokehold with a headbutt to Makoto's face. Then, I watched Hifumi grab a salt shaker from a kitchen counter and throw salt at Makoto's eyes, which temporarily blinded her. After dazing Makoto, Hifumi tackled her down and slapped her as if there was no tomorrow. It led to a vicious catfight that I was afraid of getting into.

I witnessed my wife, uncharacteristically break out of her usually calm state and scream with anger while strangling Makoto. Being the stronger one, Makoto countered by striking Hifumi's face and body. I scrambled over and saved my wife, pulling her out of Makoto's clutches.

"Makoto, stop this! You've hurt my wife!" I berated her.

"The next time your wife puts her hands on me again, your kids are next!" Makoto furiously screamed, threatening harm to my and Hifumi's children. I squeezed my wife hard, giving Makoto an intense look.

"This is unbecoming of you, Makoto! Where's the old friend we used to know?!"

"She's gone. I'm warning you and your bitch of a wife, don't cross my paths and get in the way of delivering justice! I will punish the ones who took my family away!" Makoto yelled as she stormed off, leaving us to pick up the pieces after this unfortunate fallout. As if threatening harm to Heath and Akiko wasn't enough, I heard Makoto say unspeakably horrible things.

I absolutely sucked playing the peacekeeper. I couldn't stop either of them from harming each other. I failed to resolve their differences. But, what could I have done to help someone mentally broken as Makoto? She lost everyone she ever loved. She left no inheritance behind. Due to this, she largely cut off ties with the other Phantom Thieves, myself, and especially my wife Hifumi.

But, could I believe Makoto? Was she capable of committing such unspeakable acts against me and my family? No, it was the PTSD from losing her family during Lost Christmas. Everyone she considered family died.

Not only did our friendship with Makoto die, but that was the day the old Hifumi, the loving and nurturing wife, ceased to be. Makoto inflicted enough damage to make my wife the rigid woman she is now. Since then, we haven't seen and spoken with Makoto for a long time. Even our kids know about this fact.

Nowadays, Heath and Akiko have tried reconciling with their aunt Makoto on our behalf. I'm not sure how much that'll work. It hasn't stopped them, and I know those two have seen Makoto recently.


"Isn't that right, Heath?" Skyler addressed his son.

"It's true, but just know she hasn't laid a finger on us," Heath reassured his father. "I really don't think she ever meant to harm us then. She was just caught in an extremely stressful moment when she and mom fought."

Hearing this, Skyler smiled. "I'd like to believe that, too."

Hifumi furrowed her brows and turned away, not paying any mention of her former friend.

"Is there any chance you can ever reconcile?" Ayase asked Skyler.

"Who's to say? That all depends on Makoto and my wife. Only they can initiate that exchange."

Inori added. "I hope things work out in the end."

Just then, a woman's voice chimed in, catching the guests by surprise. "Is everything ok here? I heard a lot of shouting. Please don't tell me Hifumi and Akiko were fighting again?"

"No, no, it's fine now, Otoboshi. And I hope my wife and daughter's screaming contest didn't scare your pet owl," Skyler openly apologized while he and the others faced Otoboshi and her owl Yukinko.

Deeply sighing, Otoboshi dismissively nodded toward Hifumi. "One of these days, you and Akiko need to put your differences aside. This family feud can't keep going on forever and you know that."

Furrowing her brow, Hifumi openly snorted. "You make it sound easy, but you don't know…"

"A thing about raising a child? Who took care of your kids while you and Skyler were away? Me, or did you suddenly get amnesia?" Otoboshi sardonically responded.

"Very funny and no I didn't forget."

"So, about our rooms?" Shu asked Skyler.

"Otoboshi, may you show our guests to their rooms?" Skyler asked the caretaker as she escorted Shu, Inori, and Ayase to their rooms.

When offering to help her up the stairs, Ayase declined Heath's offer, allowing Otoboshi to carry her up. Shu and Inori followed Ayase and Otoboshi up. Upon arriving on the second floor, they found Walter standing outside Akiko's room.

"Is everything ok over there, Walter?" Shu queried.

"She just needs time alone, but I'm standing outside if she needs anything. You go on to your rooms," Walter reassured them.

As Otoboshi opened the first guest room, Shu put his belongings down. He then watched Otoboshi open the second guest room, carrying Inori and Ayase's luggage inside.

"Inori, you'll be ok with Ayase?" Shu asked her.

Inori nodded. "Yes, don't worry I'll be next door if you need anything. I'll even ask Heath and Akiko's parents if you want me to make you anything."

"Oh, you won't need to. I help cook meals for this household," Otoboshi stated.

"Perhaps if I may assist you? I brought a list of ingredients to make meals," the pink-haired songstress replied.

"Well, if you insist, then I'd appreciate the help," Otoboshi smiled.

"Thank you. Shu is very particular in what he likes."

Just then, Shu overheard Ayase chuckling and pivoted toward her.

"You have Inori cooking for you, huh, Shu?"

"Yeah, and she knows what I want."

Ayase rolled her eyes. "Lucky you."

"Hey, Ayase," Heath interjected as he came between her and Shu. "Did you want to talk outside? I'm sure you want to know more about my family?"

"Oh, sure. Uh, let me get dressed in something more comfy, ok?" Ayase said, closing the door behind her.

"So, how long have your mom and sister argued this harshly?" Shu asked Heath.

"For as long as I can remember, especially once Akiko started reading the room and found out about my mom and dad's strained relations with a few of the Phantom Thieves, especially with Makoto," Heath said. "But, we haven't always been like this. I wish things were better than they are now."

"Ok, I'm ready," Ayase called out behind the door.


Once they scoured outside the household, Heath showed Ayase around an elaborately decorated garden full of Ajisai blossoms, lilies, and sunflowers. They stopped near a small artificial pond with fish.

"So, what's the story behind your caretaker?"

"Miss Otoboshi? Yeah, she's not just our caretaker, but she's my dad's second wife."

"Wait, the second wife?! You mean your dad, your mom, and Otoboshi are in some threesome relationship?!" Ayase blurted out.

"Shhh not so loud. And we call it a throuple relationship."

"How long have the three of them been together?"

"When my folks moved into Sakai. Before she met my mom and dad, Otoboshi had a Japanese boyfriend, but they never married or had any kids. I don't think they ever got too intimate. Sadly, her lover died during Lost Christmas. She was also a famous Shogi player in Sakai. So when my folks moved in, Otoboshi got acquainted with my mom, who is also an expert Shogi practitioner. Otoboshi saw my mom as an equal and competed with her. Eventually, she became close with our household, she got married to my mom and dad, making herself their second wife. And she helped babysit us while our folks were working and on business trips."

As she listened to Heath, Ayase nodded. "She's got such a calm spirit, not like your mother."

"Well, my mother used to be calm and tranquil. I mean, she still is, but only when Akiko isn't around. My sis really knows how to push mom's buttons."

Ayase shook her head. "Yeah, I can already gather that much. But, I am interested to know about my mother's relationship with your dad. Heh, who knew our parents knew each other. Small world, right?"

Heath smirked as he picked up a pebble and tossed it into the pond. "Well, you aren't wrong. And who knew fate would bring us together like this."

"Heh, you'd think that, but I don't believe in fate. Just coincidences," Ayase remarked.

"Oh?"

"Then again, maybe this is my mother's way of bringing us together to continue her fight. That's what I'd like to believe."

"So, fate?"

Ayase grumbled. "I guess so." Then, they genuinely laughed together as they watched the sunset in the distance. "By the way, just between us, my mother's way cooler and is less hostile than yours."

Heath chuckled. "How can I argue when I've never met her before. But, based on the stories you've told me, I can believe that. My dad's nervous being around mom these days due to her newfound sternness."

"I can see that. My mom doesn't mind if I call her simply 'mom', but she was a casual woman."

Heath calmly smiled. "I'm glad we've had this talk. I feel a lot better already. Thanks for the company, Ayase."

"Sure. You're welcome. I wonder how long until dinner is ready? It shouldn't be too long with Inori helping Miss Otoboshi."

"It shouldn't be too long."

Ayase smirked. "If Inori is helping her, then I expect dinner to be good. Trust me, Inori's great in the kitchen."

"Based on the servings made by her at HQ, then I look forward to the feast."


After spending some time brooding in her room, Akiko opened the door and found Walter asleep standing up on the wall. She walked up and snapped her fingers in his face, causing him to wake up.

"Huh? What happened? Enemy attack?!"

"No, silly. It's just me," Akiko said.

"Oh, sorry. You're finally out, Akiko. Are you feeling better?"

"Kinda. I'm only out because I want to check in with bro and the others."

"We could see them if you'd like? Last I checked, they've all settled in," Walter said.

"Hmm, let's go outside then. We have a lovely garden in the back," Akiko said. On the way down, she sneaked a sly grin.

"Just that time I caught mom and dad having sex one night."

"What?! That happened?! How, did you walk in on them or something?!"

"Actually, yeah," Akiko casually responded. "I remember it as if it were yesterday! Hahah!"


It happened one night after mom and dad's intense fallout with aunt Makoto. That fallout made mom want to relieve all that stress and she decided to take it out on dad.

How do you ask? By nailing him in bed. Heh, aunt Makoto pissed her off so much she needed to fuck dad to take out all of her sexual frustrations.

My brother and I were in middle school at the time.

So, at our age and especially with my younger mindset, seeing two people engage in sex was mind-boggling, to say the least.

I don't know what came over me. I guess I was kind of worried and wanted to check in with my folks. When I eavesdropped and slightly creaked open the door, I caught mom laying on top of dad and throwing her head back, letting out some loud orgasms.

I couldn't believe what I was looking at! I even cupped my mouth out of disbelief!

"Oh, shit… what am I seeing?!" I said out loud and that was more than enough to get me noticed. My mom saw me peeking through the door and when our eyes met, I saw mom give the biggest freakout face I've ever seen.

Her facial reaction looked like those ghosts from those haunted grudge-like movies. The room was barely lit. I can remember seeing mom's pale, ghostly features. Her eyes and mouth were agape and almost looked black inside the room. She let out an audible scream that rang in my ears. There, I saw her laying on top of dad, who also noticed me.

"AKIKO!" I heard 'mommy' horrifically scream.

"Honey, what are you doing here?! You shouldn't…!"

Before I could let my dad finish, I closed the door behind me and covered my eyes.

That was a moment I'd never forget.

Who'd thought your first time seeing sexual intercourse was between your folks?

Well, that night I caught 'mommy' engaging in a lewd act.

And that face? My god, that haunting face continues to burn in my head.


Akiko shook her head and shuddered. "Yeah, that was the last thing I wanted to see was my mom's naked ass banging my dad."

"Geez, I'm sorry. You'd think you'd first learn that in sex education classes in school?" Walter wondered.

"Nothing beats a real-life experience, I suppose, but because of that I've learned to cope with watching sex scenes in movies."

"So, have they given you any ideas?"

Hearing this, Akiko scoffed. "Please, I'm not a freak like my mom is. When I'm ready, I want it to be with someone I love and trust. C'mon, are you hungry? I'm starving." She walked with Walter accompanying her.

Along the way, they saw Shu walking down the stairs.

"Hey, guys. If you're looking for Heath, he and Ayase are outside in the garden. Inori is helping Miss Otoboshi cook dinner for us."

"Sounds great. Miss Otoboshi makes really tasty meals."

When Shu, Akiko, and Walter walked down the stairs, they saw Otoboshi and Inori in the kitchen preparing dinner. They saw Skyler and Hifumi in the dining room. Skyler offered to show them framed pictures and photographs from as far back as a few decades to as recently as a few years ago.

When Ayase and Heath reentered the household, they saw Shu, Akiko, Walter, and Inori gathered around looking through photographs. The first group photo Skyler showed them depicted a younger Skyler with a young half-Caucasian/Japanese male with an unkempt dark brown hairstyle and red eyes. Standing next to the two young men is a tall, red-haired, brown-eyed young man, who wore his hair in a small ponytail, and beside him is a short-statured, green-eyed woman with long blonde hair tied in pigtails.

"These three are my friends Leonard, Kaito, and Rachel. This is us nearly 20 years ago outside Haneda Airport when they picked me up. Then, we cruised straight into Tokyo. Man, this takes me back," Skyler pointed to the picture of himself and his three friends, who stood together outside the airport. The picture was taken in September 2020.

Shu, Inori, and Ayase finally got a visual image of Leonard, whom Makoto mentioned before being her and Haru's now late husband.

The next picture Skyler showed them consisted of group shots at Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea in December 2020 and a group shot of the four friends in Shibuya & Shinjuku during New Year's Eve & New Years' Day circa. December 31, 2020 - January 1, 2021. The New Years' picture also showed the Shinjuku Toho Building and the Godzilla statue head.

Another picture showed a younger Skyler and Hifumi, the latter's face had a softer and demure disposition as opposed to her current harsh and cold personality. They were seen dressed in their winter attire during a Shujin Academy reunion in January 2021.

"Wow, you two look so much happier then," Ayase pointed out.

Akiko mumbled. "I wish they were still like this."

"And so much younger. Not that you both look much older now," Shu said.

"Yeah, that's us a few months into our relationship. Hifumi was gentler back then," Skyler chuckled modestly, keenly eyeing his wife, who watched him and the group like a hawk. Skyler slightly shuddered at her steely smirk. "Anyway, let's get to the next photo."

The next series of photos showed other unseen individuals. Two included a couple, a tall, slender man with a scar over his left eye, short platinum blond hair with the back of it wild and disheveled, and longer locks covering his right eye. Standing next to the tall, platinum blond-haired young man is a woman with neck-length platinum blonde hair.

"There's my dad and mom," Walter said, eyeing the photographed couple.

"They're such a pretty couple," Ayase keenly gazed at Walter's parents in the photo.

"These two are Jacob and Madeline, who your mom and I knew back when we were high school students," Skyler pointed and showed her the couple. "Well, this picture was taken sometime after we graduated."

"They look so good together. I didn't realize my mom had such cool-looking friends," Ayase said, gazing at the photographed couple.

"The man and woman here were Sumire's lovers. The man was named Eugene and the woman is Megumi," Skyler elaborated while showing them a young man with short, neck-length flax yellow hair, brown eyes, and a light complexion. The youthful woman standing with Sumire and Eugene is tangerine-haired and tied into a ponytail.

"They all looked much happier back then. Lost Christmas has taken a lot from nearly everyone," Inori observed pictures of the former Phantom Thieves and Hifumi.

"Including our families and smiles. My dad would still be here if that event never happened. Mom, too, since we'd have no reason to attack GHQ if dad was still alive," Ayase added of a scenario that could've been.

"You're not wrong. A lot of us would still have our families," Shu said.

"And mom over there wouldn't be in such a sorry state," Akiko remarked, briefly giving her mother the stink eye, which hardly fazed Hifumi.

"Whoa, take a look at this photo! That's a lot of cosplay!" Shu exclaimed.

"Heh, now this one brings back a lot of great memories. This was taken at AnimeJapan in March 2021," Skyler showed them a massive cosplay group picture taken from the aforementioned event and year.

The photo displayed the Phantom Thieves and their friends, consisting of Ren dressed as Lelouch vi Britannia from Code Geass in his school uniform. Ann cosplayed as Alisa Ilinichina Amiella from God Eater. Skyler dressed as the Male Protagonist from Code Vein. Hifumi cosplayed as Io from Code Vein. Makoto cosplayed as Tsunemori Akane from Psycho-Pass. Rachel dressed as Mia Karnstein from Code Vein. Kaito came as Yakumo Shinonome from Code Vein. Leonard cosplayed as Louis Amamiya from Code Vein. Jacob cosplayed as Jack Rutherford from Code Vein. Madeline cosplayed as Eva Roux from Code Vein. Megumi dressed as Rin Murasame from Code Vein. Ryuji cosplayed as Itadori Yūji from Jujutsu Kaisen. Morgana came dressed like Kyubey from Puella Magi Madoka Magica. Haru came as Macrophage from Cells at Work!. Yusuke cosplayed as Kamado Tanjiro from Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. Futaba cosplayed as Jessie from Final Fantasy VII Remake. Sumire and Eugene cosplayed as Aqua and Satō Kazuma from KonoSuba. Maruki cosplayed as Okabe Rintaro from Steins;Gate. Ichinose cosplayed as Makise Kurisu from Steins;Gate. Sophia cosplayed as Honma Meiko "Menma" from Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day. Zenkichi cosplayed as Kaburagi T. Kotetsu from Tiger & Bunny. Akane cosplayed as Kaburagi Kaede from Tiger & Bunny.

Then, Skyler showed them various cosplayer pictures, consisting of characters from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the DC Animated Universe, The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Game of Thrones, Transformers: Prime, Samurai Jack, The Powerpuff Girls, Codename: Kids Next Door, The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy; Ed, Edd n Eddy; Teen Titans, Avatar: The Last Airbender, The Legend of Korra, Super Smash Bros., Pyra & Mythra from Xenoblade Chronicles 2, DuckTales (2017 TV series), Invincible, Pokémon, Rebuild of Evangelion, the Fate Series, Gasai Yuno from Future Diary, Zero Two from Darling in the Franxx, Sora and Shiro from No Game No Life, Jabami Yumeko from Kakegurui (and holding a Scampuss plush from Nioh 2), Kamen Rider, Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World, Re:Creators, Dr. Stone, Thorfinn from Vinland Saga, Overlord, The Rising of the Shield Hero, Genshin Impact, Arknights, Vivi from Final Fantasy IX, Ashe from Final Fantasy XII, Sword Art Online, and Attack on Titan. In the middle of the Super Smash Bros. group showed a content creator wearing a Nintendo 64 controller shirt and holding a Kingdom Key prop; standing beside him from the right and left sides are two Luigi and Yoshi cosplayers, and a Duck Hunt plush.

"Now, this photo is of a content creator, who's now a famous fantasy author. Back then, he was known as SSJ4Takeru-Cage," Skyler showed them a picture of the then-younger author. The autographed picture was SSJ4Takeru-Cage cosplaying as Spike Spiegel from Cowboy Bebop and holding a Patamon plush from Digimon. He has his own bag decorated with badges/charms based on Yagami Taichi (in his Last Evolution – Kizuna appearance) & Agumon from Digimon Adventure, Matsuda Takato & Guilmon from Digimon Tamers, Son Goku from Dragon Ball, Vegeta from Dragon Ball, Sailor Moon, Sailor Mars, Sailor Venus, Sailor Pluto, Urameshi Yusuke from YuYu Hakusho, Hiei from YuYu Hakusho, Kurama from YuYu Hakusho, Kuwabara Kazuma from YuYu Hakusho, Dark Yugi from Yu-Gi-Oh!, Yuki Judai from Yu-Gi-Oh! GX, Fudo Yusei from Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D's, Freeza from Dragon Ball, Broly (Super variation) from Dragon Ball, Beerus & Whis from Dragon Ball, TOM from Toonami, Gon Freecss from Hunter × Hunter, Kujo Jotaro from JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, Dai from Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai, Kamina from Gurren Lagann, Saitama from One-Punch Man, and Midoriya Izuku from My Hero Academia.

"Is he still around?" Shu queried.

"Yeah, but I don't know what he's doing these days beyond writing novels. He's probably living his life in peace," Skyler said.

The next photo shows one from Universal Studios Japan in June 2021 with Futaba and Yusuke riding on Mario Kart: Koopa's Challenge in the Super Nintendo World.

More pictures were shown of Odaiba in August 2021, one of them includes the RX-0 Unicorn Gundam. One photo showed the old location before Lost Christmas, and just before Ward 24 fully replaced Odaiba.

Then, a massive collection of pictures were taken on Halloween, October 31, 2021, in Shibuya Crossing. The Phantom Thieves and their friends were all seen wearing their Halloween costumes: Skyler and Hifumi came dressed as the 86 -Eighty Six- main characters Shinei "Shin" Nouzen and Vladilena "Lena" Milizé. Ren was Emiya Kiritsugu from Fate/Zero. Ann came as Ange from Cross Ange. Leonard came dressed as Kaneki Ken from Tokyo Ghoul. Haru came as Emilie De Rochefort from Tekken and Makoto was Kazama Asuka from Tekken. Ryuji came dressed as Hanagaki Takemichi from Tokyo Revengers. Rachel came dressed as Tanya Degurechaff from The Saga of Tanya the Evil. Morgana showed off his Kuro costume from Blue Exorcist. Futaba came as Miriam from Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night and Yusuke dressed as Yato from Noragami. Kaito dressed as Ban from The Seven Deadly Sins. Jacob as Trevor Belmont from Castlevania (TV series). Madeline as Sypha Belnades from Castlevania (TV series). Sumire dressed as Shionne from Tales of Arise. Megumi was Claire Redfield from Resident Evil. Sojiro dressed as Jigen Daisuke from Lupin the III. Sae came in Bayonetta's Bayonetta 2 costume. Eugene cosplays as Alphen from Tales of Arise.

"Ah, I neglected to tell you about these five. The four kids pictured here know us. They're named Shinya, Owen, Reiko, and Li-Ming. Owen happens to be Rachel's younger brother. The man here was Sae's late husband Hojo," Skyler explained, pointing to Shinya, Owen, Reiko, Li-Ming, and Hojo in a full Seraph of the End group cosplay: Shinya as Hyakuya Yuichiro, Owen as Hyakuya Mikaela, Reiko as Hiragi Shinoa, Li-Ming as Krul Tepes, and Hojo as Ichinose Guren.

Other random cosplayers are seen consisting of characters from Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Castlevania, Resident Evil, Silent Hill, The House of the Dead, Highschool of the Dead, Chainsaw Man, Platinum End, takt op. Destiny, Moriarty the Patriot, Vivy: Fluorite Eye's Song, Ruby Lane from Fear Street, Spy x Family, Jack Garland from Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin, the Protagonist from Shin Megami Tensei V, Black Myth: Wukong, and Enma Ai from Hell Girl.

"Oh my, isn't that me?" Otoboshi walked by and noticed the Enma Ai cosplayer. "That was so long ago!"

"That was you?!" Ayase exclaimed in disbelief, facing Otoboshi and looking back at the younger woman in the photo.

"You're right. That is her," Inori pointed to Otoboshi in the photo.

"At that time, Hifumi and I didn't know who she was until we moved to Sakai years later. What a small world we live in. Imagine our surprise when Otoboshi told us," Skyler said.

"Hmm, yes, small world, indeed," Hifumi coolly muttered, much to Akiko's annoyance.

"Oh, look. Here comes the big moment, dad," Heath pointed to his father and mother's most important day.

"Yes, and it was a beautiful moment for us just when spring was approaching," Skyler genuinely smiled as Hifumi leaned to look at their wedding picture, which was taken in March 2022.

"How happy we were back then. I was so young and naive then," Hifumi chortled.

"However, I'd say this was a more important event in our lives, dear," Skyler said, pointing to a picture of him and Hifumi in a hospital room with Heath and Akiko as newborn babies. Hifumi is seen laying in a hospital bed holding Akiko while Skyler is holding Heath. The date labeled beneath the photo was written 9/11/2022.

"Oh my gosh, you two are so adorable! Especially you, Heath!" Ayase giggled and squealed loudly, causing Heath to blush at the sight of his baby picture. "I was born over 7 months before you, Heath, on February 25. According to the math, that makes me your senior."

"Yeah, really cute," Heath muttered.

Upon seeing her mother holding her baby self, Akiko stayed quiet. Instead, she reminisced about when her mother had a kinder and cordial disposition. She longed for that Hifumi again, which is another reason why she despises GHQ for indirectly fracturing their family.

"And these are your childhood photos? Wow, you're all so bright and happy," Shu pointed to the photos of Heath and Akiko as children with their parents.

"Yes, that was shortly before Lost Christmas," Skyler said.

The last picture shown to Shu and his friends is the Christmas celebration on December 24, 2029, outside of Tokyo. This was approximately a full day before the tragic outbreak known as Lost Christmas.

"Our last real day of happiness before everything changed," Heath said as everyone else stayed silent on the matter.

"Looking through these photos is like walking on a trip down memory lane. We'll never forget and cherish these memories," Skyler said, placing a hand on Hifumi's arm. "Right, dear?"

Hifumi responded with a glint of sadness in her eyes. "Yes." After that, her features regained their cynical and rigid demeanor as she walked out of the dining room.

"Listen, Heath and Akiko. While your mother is stern these days, she and I do worry for your well-being. We've discussed it after hearing Ren's accounts. Thankfully your mother and I haven't had any heated arguments over your Funeral Parlor involvements. And while I support you two in Funeral Parlor, I can't shake off my paternal instincts. I hope you two know what you're getting yourselves into and wish you to be safe. Based on Shu, Inori, Ayase, and Walter's testimonies, I'm relieved you two are involved with some good and well-intentioned people," Skyler said, eliciting reassuring nods from Heath and Akiko.

"Well, I certainly liked seeing an old photo of me. These were wonderful days, weren't they? Back when our country still had its democracy," Otoboshi stated.

Everyone went silent and nodded in unison.

"By the way, Inori. Thank you for helping me in the kitchen. Let's see how everyone else likes your recipes," Otoboshi addressed the pink-haired songstress.

"It was my pleasure. So, dinner is ready," Inori said, showing them toward the dining table where a bountiful feast was prepared for the household and their guests.

"Whoa, you really outdid yourself, you two," Heath gaped in shock over the dinner spread.

"It looks so good!" Akiko exclaimed.

"You and Miss Otoboshi put a lot of work in, didn't you?" Shu asked his pink-haired companion, who genuinely smiled at him.

"I made it how you liked it, Shu."

"Hey, you ready to dig in, bro?" Akiko turned over toward her brother.

Before Heath could answer, Ayase waved her finger at him and dismissively nodded.

"Let's wait until we're all seated, ok?" Ayase suggested.

"Yeah, you're right. Let's set a better example in this household, sis."

"Sure, fine. Whatever."

As everyone met and sat down, they ate dinner and indulged in deep conversations. Heath and Ayase enjoyed healthy discussions unrelated to Lost Christmas and the tragedies. Everyone complimented Inori's recipes and Otoboshi credited her with tonight's dinner recipes. After dinner, Shu, Inori, Ayase, Heath, Akiko, and Walter settled on going to a local onsen.

With the teens gone, the adults stayed behind to clean up the dinner table. In the kitchen, Otoboshi confronted the couple and reminded them about their strained relationships with Makoto and Akiko.

"Listen, you two. Do you not remember when I told you? You need to support one another while sharing and relating to our losses during Lost Christmas. Akiko is right. Nearly everyone suffered one way or another. We lost friends and loved ones. Now isn't the time to quarrel amongst ourselves," Otoboshi said while painstakingly facing Hifumi. "That's partly why I'm here. I'm here to help relieve you of your stress. It's why I agreed to marry into your relationship, but I also said I would not be the third wheel. I asked to be treated equally, which I'm thankful you've done for me."

As they exchanged looks, Skyler and Hifumi nodded together.

"How can we forget? I'll never forget when you consented to us having a threesome with us," Skyler stated.

"Though, I won't forget when you and I competed on who'd have Skyler to ourselves," Hifumi reminded them of their rivalry.

"I wanted to help make sure your intercourse went uninterrupted," Otoboshi said.

"Ugh, yes. My daughter had some nerve…"

Otoboshi nodded. "Hifumi, don't completely take it out on Akiko. She had no idea you and Skyler were making love that night." Holding Skyler and Hifumi's hands, Otoboshi graciously smiled. "I was honored to help relieve you two. And I remember I was holding your hands like this before we initiated our threesome."


Standing in front of the couple, I held their hands together. "Please, let me give you the sex you wanted before you were interrupted."

After hearing about the incident with Akiko's eavesdropping, I offered to become Skyler and Hifumi's third intercourse partner. After giving them my consent, I joined the couple to make love. Although Skyler devoted himself to Hifumi as his primary wife, he treated me equally well as if I was his second wife. Likewise, Hifumi treated me as her love partner. Hifumi acted as the headmaster of the household while I was the caretaker.

I wanted to give back to Skyler and Hifumi after marrying them.

After a long night of our intercourse, we lay under the covers covered in sweat and embraced each other. I remember Skyler being in the middle. I was on the right and Hifumi was on the left.

With subdued laughter, Hifumi's eyes burned with passion while gripping Skyler's and my hands. "Heheheh, that was the most satisfying and intense sex I've had yet! It was sex fitting for a king and his two queens!" This was the most animated and passionate I've seen from Hifumi in a long time.

After that, Hifumi and I licked our man's neck with our tongues while sliding them up to his chin.

With a seductive smirk on my face, I let my hair loose. At that moment, Hifumi and I noticed our hairstyles and colors identically matched. Except, I had looser hair and bangs in front of my face.

With a hand over my head, I ran my fingers through my long dark hair and gave Skyler one of the sexiest smirks. Having seen more of my seductive side, Hifumi attempted to outdo me. She saw how refined and soft my hair was. She couldn't take the fact there was someone who matched her beauty.

My sultry actions were enough to entice Hifumi to give Skyler another kiss on his lips. She furrowed her brows and angrily growled like a dog at me. I was taken aback. I never imagined Hifumi had this much aggression tucked away under her calm facade. It was then both of our lips touched Skyler's lips.

As our lips kissed Skyler's, we engaged in what seemed like the longest kiss in our lives. It seemed like 20 minutes long, but honestly, I couldn't tell you how long it lasted. We just kept going. Our lips never stopped kissing Skyler. We didn't just kiss, we licked each other's mouths and engaged in slobbering kisses. When Hifumi and I's bodies leaned against Skyler's, our milky complexions mixed in with Skyler's slightly tanned complexion. Our bodies looked like milk mixing with caramel. When I tasted Hifumi's lips, she tasted like cherry. As I licked Skyler's lips, I gave him a taste similar to vanilla mixed with caramel. When our tongues collided, they fiercely competed over the right to kiss Skyler. It was as if our tongues had minds of their own and fought on our behalf. From Skyler's perspective, my and Hifumi's fight was like a force of nature. It was also like a divine battle between a Tennyo from Tengoku and a Jinyo from Jigoku.

Hifumi muttered. "If I'm the Tennyo, then…"

"I'm the Jinyo," I proudly answered Hifumi.

I recall Skyler nervously watching Hifumi and I angrily staring at each other while competing over him. When our lips and tongues caressed and licked Skyler's lips again, we watched him develop an erection. I should've felt embarrassed for poor Skyler, but I thought it was cute. To think that his wife and I filled enough sexual thoughts in his mind, which give him an erection.

As the intercourse went on, our competitive spirits ceased. We relieved each other enough and fell asleep for the rest of the night. Our erotic night helped us escape from the real world stress, including getting our minds off GHQ's firm control over our country.


"Hifumi, I know we like to compete over our mate, but I appreciate you both giving me a home. And thank me for letting me be your stress reliever. I'm deeply honored," Otoboshi approached the couple and kissed their lips.

"No, we're happy to have you a part of our family, Otoboshi," Skyler genuinely added as he and Hifumi held Otoboshi's hands.

Hifumi whipped her hair back and gave a subdued chuckle. "I suppose you aren't too bad, Otoboshi. You do liven up the place and your cooking is far and now better than mine."

"Stop. You're just making me feel warm inside!" As she said this, Skyler and Hifumi kissed her cheeks.


As the teens settled at the local onsen, they used two separate hot springs. One for Shu, Heath, and Walter. The other one was occupied by Inori, Ayase, and Akiko. The teens discussed everything that has happened since arriving in Sakai.

Before getting into the water, Ayase came out wearing a crimson and white bathrobe. Eyeing the hot water, the warm and moist air filled her nostrils. Dying to get in, she disrobed herself. Inori and Akiko then helped carry Ayase out of her wheelchair and gently put her into the hot spring. When her body settled, she became refreshed with the hot water massaging her skin and detoxifying her.

"So, I know you and my brother have been talking, Ayase," Akiko brought this on, startling Ayase. Akiko winked and deviously smirked. "Do you like Heath?"

"Don't spring a question like that out of nowhere Akiko!"

"Answer the question."

Ayase scoffed and gently massaged her face. "I guess I like him but more of a friend. Though, he did slip up when he mistook me for some helpless girl in a wheelchair. It's fine. It happens. That said, he's been very kind and considerate, but..."

"But?"

"I don't know. I do admire Gai and Shu. Gai for his leadership and Shu for his growth as a Funeral Parlor soldier. What is Heath's best quality?" She wondered. "It might be his willingness to talk to me and he is a great listener. But now we've learned our parents knew each other when they were roughly our age."

Akiko added. "Hmm, I wonder if Heath feels the same way."

Inori deduced. "Maybe we should ask them now?"

Ayase dismissed this notion. "No, no, let the boys be. This is our privacy time now. Let's just worry about the coming days while we're still here."

On the other side in the men's hot spring, the boys overheard the girls' conversation. Shu and Walter turned over to Heath.

"You got all that, Heath?" Walter queried.

"What do you think? Do you share Ayase's feelings?" Shu asked Heath.

Heath mused and looked at the night sky outside. He reflected on his and Ayase's conversation about their connections through their parents.

"Ayase's a very straightforward and honest woman, but she has a beautiful voice and an endearing spirit. So, yeah my feelings for her are mutual."

Shu smiled genuinely. "Well, we're going to be here for a few days in Sakai. You have a chance to get to know her better."

"Yeah, you're right," replied Heath.


For the next six days, Heath and Akiko gave Shu, Inori, Ayase, and Walter a grand tour through Sakai. They explored the shopping centers, dined at a few local restaurants, and enjoyed the sights, including the seaports, shrines, museums, and other points of interest.

One night, the teens went out to a local festival. Each of them wore colorful yukatas to better enjoy the festivities. Heath wore a black robe with a black and red yukata underneath and a pair of light gray hakama pants. Akiko wore a black robe with red and orange emblems embellished on the front. Walter wore an ash gray and white yukata with a red sash. Shu brought and wore his back robe and gray yukata. Inori brought and wore her bright pink and white yukata that had pale pink flower emblems. Ayase brought and wore an elegant slim magenta and plum purple kimono dress coupled with a black bowtie on her bosom and magenta-colored elbow-length gloves.

Having seen Ayase in her attire, Heath openly complimented her outfit. "You look very beautiful in your yukata."

"Um, thanks?" Ayase blinked, becoming flustered by his kind remark. "And your yukata's nice, too!" She then received a candy apple from Heath as he walked with Ayase, who pushed herself along with him.

The teens enjoyed the rest of their time at the festival and watched the fireworks together. Shu and Inori sat beside each other admiring the firework display. Heath and Ayase witnessed the fireworks together, and unbeknownst to them, their hands briefly held each other.


Every night, the teens each slept in separate rooms. Shu shared a room with Walter while Inori and Ayase occupied another guest room.

One night, Shu walked in to check on Inori and Ayase. He saw Inori garbed in an adorable light gray and black-striped cat outfit, which elicited warm and fuzzy emotions from him. He also saw Ayase wearing a pale red nightgown and holding two cute animal plushes, including a pale brown pig and an aqua blue bear. Both were sound asleep.

With a smile on his face, Shu quietly muttered. "Goodnight, you two."

"Hey, are they asleep?" Heath interjected, startling Shu.

"Yeah, let's let them be," he said, closing their door.

"How do you like Sakai, Shu?"

"It's been a blast. We're enjoying our time here and your family has a nice home."

Heath folded his arms and nodded. "Yeah, it's too bad we'll be heading back in a few days."

"Funeral Parlor will be waiting for us, Heath. I'm sure they'll tell us everything that's been happening back home. Trust me, let's enjoy this vacation that we have before we're called back. I'd rather us recharge now and deal with what's coming later."

"You think things are going to get tougher for us, Shu?"

"I'm sure of it. Now, let's get some rest."


A/N: How's that for a backstory? Not only do we learn more about Ayase's mother, but we find out that Hanazawa Ayase and Heath & Akiko's father knew each other since high school. Moreover, we learn about what drove a wedge between Makoto and Hifumi. Talk about drama.

Well, Togo Hifumi sure turned out differently than how she was portrayed in Persona 5. The fallout from Lost Christmas changed her from her calm and demure girl into a cynical and aloof woman. And we find out why Akiko and Hifumi don't get along. Despite the drama, the household still manages to stay intact without anyone getting hurt. It's a miracle. Maybe that's partly due to Otoboshi and her pet owl helping to cool tensions while being Skyler and Hifumi's third wheel. Being a caretaker has its perks in this situation. Skyler's friends are revealed and are OC interpretations of the Code Vein characters (yes, the anime Dark Souls game).

And for those who've been following our other fanfic Persona story. Now, you know what Akane no Mai translates to. The Akane part translates to red, which is the same color as Ayase's suit and the trademark color of the Phantom Thieves. While this story has no connection/tie-in with Akane no Mai, AnGC could be classified as a legacy story that pays homage to AnM and if the Persona cast retired and the Code Vein characters never had their Revenant abilities.

Yeah, our favorite part of this chapter was exploring Hanazawa Ayase's relationship with Skyler, who told the backstory from his first-person POV. We also find out who Walter's parents are. Yep, if you already couldn't tell, Heath, Akiko, Ayase, and Walter are all connected through their parents. Who knew and saw that coming?

This chapter also shows a little more Heath and Ayase bonding.

All There in Manual - Chapter IX

-What happened to the celebrity known as SSJ4Takeru-Cage in AnGC? SSJ4Takeru-Cage's whereabouts remain mainly unclear. After a final hurrah in a video game tournament, he announced his retirement from gaming and abruptly left, allowing the new generation of gamers to take over. He makes a few social media posts afterward and then stops posting anything for a long time. He leaves with grace and dignity. I'd say 10 years after that, he returns for pop culture conventions to discuss his views on how comics, anime, and video games have evolved (or regressed if he sees anything he doesn't like/understand) but will say he's largely excited for any future installments he has an interest in. He makes a few appearances to host tournaments. During his long sabbatical, he would've written novels under another alias until he confirms it was 'SSJ4Takeru-Cage' all along that has been writing stories during his retirement. Even while away from the video game and pop culture scene, he refused to let go of his love for fantasy and hoped his novels foster new fandoms. He would've also written an autobiography about himself and his rise as a gaming legend, which he would release during his comeback.
-Relating to SSJ4Takeru-Cage's whereabouts, one of his old friends back in the 2010s cosplayed as Suzumiya Haruhi in a convention SSJ4Takeru-Cage went to before she disappeared online without warning in 2018. Sadly, she's another victim of Lost Christmas during her Christmas vacation, and that SSJ4Takeru-Cage is saddened by her death when he finds out the news.
-The name of the Jabami Yumeko (Kakegurui) cosplayer is Nakamura Miki.
-The person that cosplayed the Protagonist (Shin Megami Tensei V) is a non-binary content creator named Mystic-Phantoms.
-Otoboshi's name and her living in Sakai are loosely based on Jigoku tayū.
-In comparing Hifumi and Otoboshi's long hairstyles, Hifumi's is like Glass from The Rising of the Shield Hero, while Otoboshi's is like Hone Onna (when her hair lets loose) from Hell Girl.

This chapter, so far, is the longest one in this story. Not bad considering it wasn't based and adapted from any GC canon material.

This chapter marks the end of the new original content and we move away from the Persona 5, Phantom Remnants, and Akane no Mai stuff. In the next chapter, we return to the Guilty Crown retelling with episodes 8-12 adapted and crammed into one chapter. Yes, so expect a mix of dialogue and summarized scenes, but there'll be plenty of dialogue for crucial moments.

If anyone reads this, it'll be the New Year and 2022 is upon us as we're three months away from the 10th anniversary of Guilty Crown's series finale. After this chapter, there are 10 chapters left of this story to go.

That's all for this commentary. Have a safe New Year, and leave a comment and review!