Yu and Akechi looked at the two women then to each other, an 'Oh shit, we are so screwed' look written all over their faces. As the girls marched closer, Yu suddenly remembered that Makoto knew aikido and Sae knew kickboxing. He realized he would rather be punched by that Kobayakawa a thousand times over in the balls than face the wrath of these two women. He turned around and considered running for dear life, but he knew that doing so would only make the situation worse. He looked to Akechi for protection, only to find that the teen detective had taken cover behind the silver-haired student like the two women were walking bombs.

"Where. Were. You?" Sae asked through gritted teeth, each word sounding like a curse.

"W-well…. You see… um… ah…" Yu stuttered, unable to use his brain at the sight of both Niijimas giving him their worst possible stares. There was no way they'd believe any of the truth, and even if they did…

They're going to kick me out for sure.

"What happened to your face?" Makoto asked.

Yu put his hand up to his face and found that where Kobayakawa punched him had started to bruise, and he felt a cut on his lip from when the orb rammed him. Sae noticed once her sister pointed it out, and her eye started to twitch.

Forget kick me out, she'll throttle me at this rate.

"What. Happened?" Sae demanded again. If all that she interrogated were given this treatment, then Yu suddenly found himself pitying that plagiarizing artist she locked up.

"I… I…"

"You what?"

"I saw someone being mugged." Yu blurted out.

"... Continue."

Yu took a deep breath to steady himself. His life depended on his next words, and if he wasn't careful, they'd see right through him. It was now or never.

"When Akechi and I were in the Council room, I saw someone getting mugged and… acted on instinct. I rushed out before Akechi could stop me. By the time I got out, the mugger was running down an alleyway, and… I followed." Yu made up, doing everything he could to appear truthful. When neither Sae nor Makoto said anything, he took it as his cue to continue.

"I had him cornered, but… he brought friends. I… fought them and I got hit. But before they could do anything besides hit my face, Akechi reached me."

Both Niijimas turned their attention to the man cowering behind Yu, and he only got more terrified as a result.

"And?" Sae asked, her blazing red orbs focused on her charge once again.

"He talked to them, but they wouldn't back off. Until he pulled out his gun and gave them a warning shot. After that, they got lost. I wasn't able to get the wallet." Yu said, scratching the back of his head and looking down.

Sae and Makoto stared at Akechi, who was now whimpering in fear. Yu wondered if it was possible to have PTSD from having two women stare at you.

"Akechi, let me see your gun. Now." Sae ordered, holding up her hand.

Akechi reached into his coat and handed her his pistol sheepishly. She inspected it thoroughly. Yu saw her glare soften slightly.

"It does show signs of being fired. But… " She said, unloading the clip.

"Why does the clip have all its bullets?" She questioned, glare returning.

Akechi and Yu looked surprised and turned to each other.

"It's a fresh clip Sae-san." Akechi explained. Sae didn't let up the glare as she gave his gun back.

"You expect us to believe that a simple mugging and what you told us would last for two hours?" Makoto asked.

Once again, the boys looked at each other, and some color left their faces.

"Did you say two hours?" Yu asked.

"Yes Narukami! Why else would Makoto call me to help her track you two down?!"

"Well… it's just that…" Yu began, trailing off.

"I told Yu to stay where he was after making sure he was ok. I decided to follow them, maybe learn their identities. But after following them for awhile, I decided to stop. If I took this matter to the police, I wouldn't have had enough evidence to get them, plus doing so would bring down more misfortune on Narukami-san. AND, it would not do for an officer of the law to fire on civilians." Akechi explained.

"That doesn't explain why neither of you answered either of our texts." Sae replied.

"Texts?" Akechi asked, both he and Yu pulling out their phones. Indeed, both had numerous texts from Makoto and Sae. Yu winced as he read Makoto's.

'Yu-kun, where are you? I came back to the Council room and neither you or Akechi-kun were there. I've looked around the school, but can't find you.'

'Is Akechi-kun with you? Please answer.'

'Yu-kun, if this is a prank, it isn't funny. Please tell me where you are.'

'I tried texting Akechi-kun but he won't respond either. Please don't do anything stupid Yu-kun.'

'Yu-kun, I am seriously starting to get worried. Please answer me.'

'Yu-kun, if you don't answer, I'll have to call Sis. Please don't make me.'

'Yu Narukami, answer your phone or else!'

'FINE'

'I called Sis and explained the situation. I hope whatever you were doing was worth it.'

Yu felt his blood start to freeze when he saw the single text Sae sent him.

'You are in very big trouble young man. I'm on my way to Shujin, and you and Akechi had better be there when I arrive, or so God help me, you'll wish you stayed in Juvie.'

The boys turned up from their phones to see that the girls' glares hadn't let up in the slightest. Sae was tapping a finger, expecting an answer. Yu looked at his phone, and saw that, oddly enough, it was still at 98% power. It would definitely be lower if it was on for two hours.

"I turned it off, and only back on recently. I'm just now reading the texts." He said with as straight a face as he could muster. Sae snatched his phone and looked at the percentage. She shot a sideways look at Yu, then handed his phone back with a nod.

"And what's your excuse Akechi?"

"I had it on silent. I'm so sorry Sae-san." He said, hanging his head down.

Sae looked between the two teenage boys. Her intuition told her that they were lying, but the evidence backed what they were saying. She was about to open a new line of questioning, but stopped herself. She promised Yu she'd give him a chance, fair and square. So, for now, she'd assume they were telling the truth. Yu saw her face soften, and was about to offer his apologizes for worrying her and her sister, but Sae's eyes widened before he could say anything, and the infamous glare returned.

"So, the truth is that, you saw a complete stranger getting mugged and decided to interfere, despite being told numerous times by myself and others to not get into any trouble. You didn't give any thought to potential consequences or to let Makoto know anything. And worse, you dragged my subordinate into it. Is that correct? Or would you like to add something else?"

Yu flinched. He traded one trap for another.

"Y-yes, that's correct." Yu said numbly.

There was a loud, hard SMACK that would most likely be heard across all of Tokyo if it wasn't drowned out by the traffic and other noises. Yu felt his face sting as a red mark in the form of a woman's hand showed almost immediately. Yu rubbed it as he looked at his guardian sheepishly, and braced himself for what came next.

"I'm not happy young man. Not. Happy. Do you have any idea how worried Makoto was, or how badly that could have gone for you?"

"I… no, Sae-san."

"So, you didn't even think, you just saw something going wrong and decided to play the hero, consequences be damned, just like the very same situation that landed you in this mess?"

Yu said nothing, simply rubbing his arm.

"I thought not."

Sae looked at him for what felt like years, until she let out a sigh and her glare vanished.

"Look Narukami, I said I'd give you a chance, and I fully intend to honor my side of the agreement, but you have to work with me. If this is to work, you have to think things through. I won't kick you out, but you can't continue this kind of behavior. Just… just keep your head down, be an honest student, and don't act on impulses. Understood?"

"I understand." He muttered.

"I didn't hear you." Sae said, narrowing her eyes.

"I understand Sae-san." Yu said, louder.

Sae simply nodded, not having any sadistic smile or any other sign of glee.

"In that case, get in the car. We're going home."

"Wait. Can I talk with Akechi for a few minutes?" Yu asked.

"... Alright. You have five minutes." Sae said as she and Makoto walked and then entered the Cadillac. Yu turned to Akechi, who had recomposed himself.

"That… could have gone worse, if I'm being honest."

"Yea. You know the saying 'Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.'? Well, they should change it to 'Hell hath no fury like an angry Niijima'."

"That was not angry my friend. That was mildly irritated."

"Really?"

"Yes. If she was angry, she would snap your neck."

Yu just stood there and let all the color leave his face.

"Now, onto more important things. We have to talk about what we saw. We have to go back."

"Two brushes with death are enough for my life, thanks."

"So you're not the least bit curious? This Morgana-san seems to know everything there is to know about that place, and that strange power you have; Persona."

"Did you not hear a word of what Sae-san said? I can't get in trouble again."

"Then we'll have to be careful. Please, at least let me get some answers. After that, I'll drop this matter. Promise."

"... Fine. Tomorrow, after school."

"Excellent. Tomorrow has the volleyball rally, so school should let out early. Let's exchange contact information."

Yu and Akechi did so, and Akechi looked at Yu with a warm smile.

"And there we go. I look forward to working with you, Narukami-san."

Yu heard a voice in his head, but managed to keep the surprise from his face.

I am thou, thou art I…

Thou has acquired a new vow

It shall become the wings of freedom that will lead thee to the truth

With the birth of the JusticeArcana,

thou hast obtained the blessing that will grant thee new power

"Narukami! Time's up!"

"I will see you tomorrow. Let's meet up here, yes?"

"Sure thing Akechi." Yu said, getting into the car and waving goodbye to his new friend as the car pulled away from the school. The sights of Tokyo seemed to blur together as they continued their silent trip to the apartment. The silence seemed to strangle the very air in Yu's lungs, and he felt a little bit like he did on that night. The teenager shook his head. Nothing could be as bad as what happened that night. Yu decided to talk, to try and alleviate the tension.

"Sae-san? Makoto-san?"

"Yes?" Both asked, not moving to face him in any way.

"I… I want to say that I'm sorry. For worrying you two, and for doing something so stupid."

The tension seemed to almost evaporate as Makoto replied.

"So long as you don't pull something like that again, apology accepted. I was really worried, and so was Sis."

"Really?" Yu asked, turning to his guardian.

"Of course. You are my ward, and I still have a debt to repay. You getting hurt is not an idea I like entertaining." Sae answered.

Yu softly smiled before Sae changed the subject.

"This incident aside, how was your first day at school?"

"Honestly? Not that great."

"How so?"

"His record was leaked. The whole student body knows." Makoto answered for him with a sigh.

Sae snarled as they reached a light and Yu swore she muttered 'damnit' under her breath.

"I'm sorry to hear that Narukami, and for making a bad day worse with that lecture. Despite this poor start, I hope you won't be discouraged."

"Don't worry Sae-san, I intend to make the most of this."

"Good, I'm happy to hear it."

The rest of the ride was spent in silence. Once they arrived, he received a text from Akechi. Yu head to his room while Sae started a bath and Makoto went to work on preparing dinner. Once he was sure he wouldn't be disturbed, he opened his phone and read the text.

Akechi: Narukami-san, can you see this?

Yu: No.

Akechi: Ha ha ha, very funny. We will need to discuss that place. Shujin Nation.

Yu: I saw it, and I still don't believe it.

Akechi: Whatever it was, it was real, no matter how impossible it may seem. The bruise on your face, and my gun showing signs of being fired prove that.

Yu: Speaking of firing guns, how did you manage to reload without Sae noticing?

Akechi: I didn't. I don't know why the gun still has all its bullets. Just one of many questions to ask Morgana-san. What are Personas? What was that place? How, if at all, does it affect this world? What were Sakamoto-san, Takamaki-san, and Kawakami-sensei doing there?

Yu: And how did they get there in the first place?

Akechi: And so much more. For once, I'm actually excited about going to school.

Yu: Remember what I said. We go after school, and we go to get answers only. No unnecessary risks.

Akechi: Where's the fun in that?

Yu: You're not the one with their life hanging by a thread.

Akechi: I apologize. That was insensitive of me. What questions are you going to ask her?

Yu: What she means by 'Wild Card' and 'Trickster'.

Akechi: Also good questions. She showed a special interest in you.

Yu: Yea. Probably because of the fact that I have the same power as her.

Yu heard a knock on his door and hurriedly shoved his phone into his pocket.

"Yu-kun, it's time to eat!" Makoto called.

"Coming!" Yu answered.

Yu: Got to go. Dinner.

Akechi: Understood. See you tomorrow Narukami-san.

Yu entered the living room, the smell of a delicious dinner waiting for him. Sae had already started eating, and Yu found his place already set. Makoto was somehow studying and eating at the same time as Yu began to eat his share.

School's just started, and she's already started studying?

As Yu ate his food, dinner was quiet. A bit too quiet.

"Sae-san?"

"Yes Narukami?"

"Are you still angry?"

Yu noticed some irritation in Sae's eyes flare up.

"A little. You have only been here three days, and you've already started getting in trouble. But don't dwell on it, and if you have to ask a question, make sure it's not a ridiculous one like that." Sae answered.

"I'm sorry. It's just, my dad made me have a strong sense of duty. And I really want to make him proud. I thought that… well… I could do the right thing and win." Yu said, repeating what he told his father, hoping that Sae would be more sympathetic.

"It's no wonder you and Akechi get along so well. He thinks that he can be a hero like in those comic books of his, that he's somehow special and destined to save the world." Sae said, ire starting to rise as she looked Yu straight in the face.

"I'll give you the same advice I gave Akechi. This isn't a video game, or a movie. This is real life. You aren't special. You can't save the world, you can only save yourself."

"Is that why you became a prosecutor? To save yourself?"

Makoto let out a gasp, but it was more out of fear than shock. Sae slammed her hand on the table, and Yu realized that he made a terrible mistake. Sae looked at him, and Yu understood why Akechi believed she was only mildly irritated before.

"Excuse me?!" She seethed.

"W-well, it's just that, prosecutors are supposed to make sure that criminals are locked away, so I thought that you'd share the same view of justice as I do. That you became a prosecutor to do the right thing." Yu said, shrinking back into his chair.

"Justice is subjective, and at times, circumstantial. And doing the right thing doesn't put food on the table, give you clothes, or get you and your younger sister out of homeless shelters! People are always grateful to have a hero, but that gratitude means nothing in the long run, and it certainly won't help when you are left to fend for yourself!" Sae yelled.

"I-I, I'm sorry. I didn't know." Yu hastily whimpered.

"No, you don't. I promised you I wouldn't judge you based on your record. You would be wise to not judge me because your father gave you my backstory."

Yu could do nothing but silently poke his food as Sae let out a deep breath and her face turned from a vicious snarl to sympathetic stare.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to explode at you like that."

Yu simply nodded, and Makoto took it upon herself to relieve the rising tension.

"S-sis, don't you have a kickboxing instruction this Sunday?"

"Yes, but what does that have to do with anything?"

"Well, it's just that, Yu-kun might run into those thugs again, and I think it would be best if he got some training. Especially if that training came from you.

"I don't think now's the best time."

"Now? No. Sunday, when you've both cooled off? It would be perfect. Yu-kun gets some training, you get to let off some steam, and you both can get to know each other better. What could go wrong?"

"What do you think Narukami? I've been told I'm very intense when I give kickboxing lessons, but Makoto raises valid points."

Yu put a hand to his chin. It was true, he could get to know Sae better, and he could benefit from kickboxing if Izanagi failed him. But on the other hand, he and Sae weren't on the best of terms, and this would be the perfect opportunity for her to take her frustrations out him. However, if he didn't get on better terms with his prison warden, then it could cause more problems later down the line.

Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

"Alright. When and where?"

Sae shot him a look of surprise.

"Really? Are… are you sure?"

"I am."

"Well, in that case, 8 AM sharp on Sunday. Just ask Makoto to show you the way to SIU HQ, and ask for where the training dojo is."

Yu gave a single nod, and the three finished their respective meals without any more conversation. Once that was done with, Makoto and Yu finished the dishes and went to bed. Once he got changed into his PJs, he started to charge his phone and looked at the strange app.

I got in a lot of trouble because of you. Once tomorrow's over, I'm getting my phone replaced, and I'll never see you again.

He laid down and closed his eyes with that thought in mind, a smile on his face.

A smile that vanished when he heard the sound of chains. Wide awake and bolting out of bed, he saw that he was in a jail cell with blue padding on the walls. He turned to the door and saw two women with platinum blonde hair and golden eyes staring back at him.

Oh no.

"Welcome back inmate. On your feet." Caroline ordered. Yu numbly obeyed.

"Welcome. I am delighted to see you are well Trickster." Igor said, his grin just as wide and unnatural as before.

"Alright. This isn't a coincidence. Akechi was right, this has to be real." Yu realized, more calm this time.

"That's what we've been telling you since the start." Justine stated in a bored tone.

"You are correct Trickster, these events are very real. But in spite of how hard you tried to deny the truth, you've made great strides towards your rehabilitation."

"I- wait, what? How?"

"Not only have you awakened to your power and began to tap into your potential, but you've also already established your first Confidant."

"Confidant?"

Igor snapped his fingers and a strange tarot card materialized in front of Yu. It showed a sword and balance scales. The right side was blood red, while the left side was snow white, with the sword and scales black as tar. Yu flipped the card over and found…

"Akechi?"

"Correct. He is your Confidant of the Justice Arcana." Igor explained.

"A Confidant is someone who will aid you on your journey to complete your rehabilitation." Justine added.

"You'd be smart to make as many Confidants as possible, inmate! You'll need it." Caroline finished.

"And just how do I do that? How am I supposed to know who can be my Confidant?!"

"We are not deaf inmate." Justine stated.

"Not yet, anyway." Caroline added.

"I'm sorry, it's just frustrating, not having all the answers."

"The answers will come to you in due time Trickster. Your guide will explain everything you want to know about that place. If there's something she can't answer, then it's not meant to be something you're supposed to know." Igor informed.

"My guide? You mean Morgana? I saw that 'V' on her belt just like the one there." Yu said, pointing at the carpet.

"You are correct Trickster. She was created with the sole purpose of guiding you and other Tricksters through your rehabilitation."

"I see. Then I'll have to talk to her. I just need to get back into that place. Wait… are you the bastard that keeps on putting that damn app on my phone?!"

Caroline slammed her baton on the cell bars, the electricity startling Yu, but not hurting him. She gave him a stern look as he backed away.

"Do NOT talk to our master like that inmate! Final warning!"

"No, I am in fact, not, the one who bestowed the Metaverse Navigator on your mobile device. Whoever it was that did, you must find out yourself. Should you encounter other Tricksters, I'm sure they bestow it upon them as well."

The bell began to ring.

"Time marches on in the waking world. Farewell Trickster, and don't forget about your contract and the obligation that comes with it."

Yu woke up, but this time it was calm, no sweat, no sudden movements, it was like he had woken up for an average morning. He heard his alarm going off and got up and ready for the day. Makoto came to get him once breakfast was ready, both dressed for school. They ate in short order, and as they were washing the dishes, Yu got a message on his phone.

Akechi: Narukami-san, do you remember our arrangement?

"Who are you texting Yu-kun?" Makoto asked, a hint of suspicion in her voice.

"Akechi. We exchanged contact info."

"What's he texting you about this early?" Makoto questioned, suspicion starting to grow.

"Oh, since the volleyball rally is today, he wanted to take me around the city and show me the sights, restaurants, you know, the usual."

"When does he want to do this?"

"Immediately after school."

Makoto let out a curse under her breath as she and Yu went out of the room and on their way to the train station.

"Really? How long do you think it'll take?" Makoto asked while they waited for their train.

"Maybe a few hours. Maybe more if I get lost."

"You sure you want to be exploring at a time like this? Especially since Sis just told you not to let anything like yesterday happen?"

"Yes, I'm sure. I'm not the kind of person who lets my curiosity go unfulfilled."

"Well, think you could at least wait about an hour? I'll have Student Council work to do, but I'd love to join you." Makoto offered as the the two boarded the train.

"Sorry, but no, Akechi said he'd rather get this done with so that he can get to helping Sae-san soon. Don't worry, we'll be sure to let you know when we're leaving."

"I sure hope so. If you pulled another stunt like that so soon, Sis would probably kick you out this time. And maybe fire Akechi-kun if he went along with you."

"Really?"

"Sis is very strict, in case you haven't noticed."

"Yea. But still, firing Akechi…. If what they told me is true, they're like Batman and Robin to the SIU."

"It's true that, without Akechi, Sis wouldn't have been able to win half of her cases. But she even after about two years of working with him, still has reservations about using a teenager for crime fighting."

"I see. A woman like that, I'm a little surprised she decided to take me in."

"It was to repay the debt that my family owes yours."

"I know, dad told me. It sounded like you two had it worse than me and Nanako did. I mean, when dad found out mom was dead… things got really bad. Dad would spend every spare yen on booze, so I had to take three part-time jobs to make up for it, then he would use cholone in order to cover the stench of booze. He'd purposefully avoid Nanako and remain absent from her life because she reminded him of mom. When his boss came to the house and said 'Dojima, if you don't pull yourself together, I'll have to ask you to turn in your badge.', I knew I had to do something. It wasn't easy, but eventually, I was able to get him to ditch the bottle and visit mom's grave. Now, he's a father again, and a good father at that."

"I'm glad to hear it. As for us, it was a struggle. Still is, actually. We were able to do it by sacrificing our social lives in exchange for grades that would get us scholarships. Selling most of our family heirlooms in exchange for a meager apartment where we had to take turns sleeping on the couch. It was an uphill war, and still is."

"Especially now that I'm here, causing you trouble."

"Yu-kun, you're not causing us trouble."

"That spat yesterday says otherwise."

"And you took the offer that could patch things up, and when you first got here, you asked if Sis knew anyone who was hiring for a job so you could help ease her burden. That sounds like someone who is dedicated to helping, not causing trouble."

"Yea. It's just… dad being a cop really ingrained my moral compass. A lot of what I do, I do to make him proud."

"I can relate. And, between you and me, I would have likely done the same thing yesterday in your position. So please don't feel bad about that."

Yu let out a smile. It seemed that he and Makoto were starting to understand each other. Once again, he heard a voice ring out in his head.

I am thou, thou art I…

Thou hast acquired a new vow

It shall become the wings of freedom that will lead thee to the truth

With the birth of the PriestessArcana,

thou hast obtained the blessing that will grant thee new power

The train's next stop was theirs, and the two shuffled off. The rest of the trip went without incident until they reached Shujin gates, where a man was greeting students that went by with the most fake enthusiasm ever. He had a bald head, a pointed nose, and his brown business suit and red bowtie barely concealed his highly muscular body. He turned to Makoto and Yu, and his false smile vanished completely.

"Ah, hello Niijima." The man said. There was no mistaking who this was.

"I take it you're Kobayakawa?" Yu asked.

"That's Kobayakawa-sensei to you, young man. And yes, I am. Whatever foul rumors Niijima here has spread, I can attest to this; they are false."

Somehow, I doubt it

"Let's go Yu-kun." Makoto said, grabbing Yu's arm. When they tried to rush past Kobayakawa, the man put a firm hand on Yu's shoulder, stopping him, and in turn, Makoto.

"One moment Niijima. I would like to speak to our new student."

Makoto looked at Yu with a mix of terror and pity. She looked around and slowly nodded her head after seeing how many students were still around. Yu felt a shiver down his spine. If Kobayakawa remembered what happened in Shujin Nation, he was screwed.

"Just remember; he has to get to class soon." Makoto warned.

Once she was out of earshot, Kobayakawa turned to Yu, his grip getting stronger.

"I've been waiting for you young man. I hope you realize your situation."

Yu felt his blood run cold and his heart seemed to bang in his chest. What if Kobayakawa knew what happened? What if he was going to try again? What would he do to Akechi?

"Shujin is an excellent school with an amazing reputation."

This is definitely the same guy that socked me in that prison. Doesn't look like he remembers it though.

"And I will do anything to uphold that reputation: So heed me when I say this, criminal."

Yu felt his anger rising at the last word.

"Do. Not. Do anything that could endanger the prestige of this fine school. If you do, there will be consequences."

For a moment, Yu was back in the prison, his resolve strengthening with each word. His eyes glared into Kobayakawa's, and though they were brown instead of yellow, they still held the same malice behind them.

"I'm sure Ryuji, Futaba, and Kawakami can tell me all about those consequences, right?"

Kobayakawa let out a chuckle, the kind one would give to someone who they knew were wrong. The coach turned away from Yu, scratching his chin with a smile.

"I'm not sure why those individuals came to mind, but I'll leave your imagination to think up what will happen to you." He said, knowing that he could taunt Yu with borderline confessing and that the teen could do nothing about it.

"I don't have to imagine. Thanks to you, I'm having a hard time finding people who will give me eye contact. The only ones who do are Makoto and Akechi."

"I heard you were associating with those rabble. I know Niijima can't be helped, but stay away from that fool Akechi. And on the topic of friends, I've heard that Takamaki is trying to get your attention. I know foreigners have low standards, but beggars can't be choosers."

Yu thought back to the prison. How hopeless and defeated Ann looked and sounded, her cries of pain as the whip assaulted her without mercy. He knew she was probably being ordered to befriend him, and that she didn't have a choice. Kobayakawa turned back to Yu, who had still been glaring at him.

"Don't give me that look. It's your fault you're a criminal."

Yu fought the urge to punch Kobayakawa. He knew from experience what would happen, and on top of that, they were in the real world. If Yu hit the coach here, he would no doubt get expelled, and that would be after he got another bruise. Not to mention, he would just prove all the rumor mongers right; that he was just a violent delinquent that needed to be put in his place. He continued to glare at Kobayakawa as the coach finally let go of his shoulder.

"Fine. Just don't try to fight me like Akechi and Niijima have. You don't want to be one of those brats that hates me for petty reasons."

Yu started to walk, and once he was out of arm's length, he turned back to Kobayakawa.

"Maybe if you weren't as disgusting and unwanted as a diarrhea explosion on a proposal date, you wouldn't have to worry about the whole damn school hating you."

Kobayakawa turned around, and almost ran after Yu as the student hurried into the building. He dared to look back and saw that Kobayakawa had stopped right outside the entrance, as if it was a magic barrier. He walked up the stairs, the rumors about him and his bruised face turning into white noise. He entered his homeroom and smiled about his little act of rebellion, the smile never leaving his face for the rest of class.

The volleyball rally had begun, and Yu found a nice little secluded corner after he and the rest of his class had changed into their PE clothes. It was boys vs girls, and as the two teams began to line up, Akechi approached, taking a seat beside him.

"You never answered my text Narukami-san. If you want to back out I-"

"I'm in. Makoto said she'll be busy for about an hour, so we have about that long to go to get answers. My main concern is finding Morgana. She said she had to take care of other business, and I'm worried about what could've happened. She could be dead or captured again for all we know."

"Morgana-san doesn't seem to be the kind of person to make the same mistake twice. Besides, I noticed that map on your phone had two arrows. Once Morgana-san joined us, a third one appeared; a blue one."

"Really? I didn't notice that."

Before Akechi could reply, a whistle blowed and the PE teacher turned to Yu.

"Narukami, you're up!"

Yu turned and got up, shooting Akechi an apologetic look. The match was 4-7, girls' favor. And as soon as the next match began, Yu wondered how the boys had managed to score at all. He managed to put up a good fight, better than the other boys, but the girls gave as good as they got.

One girl in particular was unstoppable. She had raven hair, like most girls, but she wore it a ponytail with a pink hairband, with deep eyes the color of chocolate. Her figure was well-defined, most likely someone who had been playing sports for a long time, as her PE uniform hugged her tightly. She was a one-woman sports team, blocking every spike Yu sent, rebounding every time the ball came to her, and every spike she gave, she gave with the force of a runaway train. Yu was able to stop each one, but it felt like he was trying to stop a bullet, and the burns were already starting to show. Yu looked at her and saw a fire in her eyes that only burned hotter with every attempt at scoring he stopped. Back and forth Yu and this pink hairband girl went, and soon it stopped looking like a game and more like a grudge match between the two. Yu thanked his kendo club training for being able to last this long, but knew he couldn't keep it up for much longer.

"Go Shiho! You can do it!" A voice yelled.

Yu looked and saw that it was Ann who yelled, the blonde jumping up and down like she was a cheerleader.

So this is her friend? Damn, wonder if she's giving me a hard time because I've been brushing her and Ann off?

The distraction did its job; Yu didn't notice the girls had set up a spike for this Shiho. When he turned his attention back to the game, it was too late. The ball came at speeds Yu didn't know a it could reach and hit him square in the face, and everything went white and a ringing formed in his ears, like he had been hit with a flashbang. The impact was enough to make him skid across the floor and he swore his nose was broken.

Just my luck too.

The cheering crowd died down and turned into a massive 'Oooooooo' followed by many saying variations of the word 'ouch'. As Yu tried to get up he heard a girls voice.

"Oh my god, I'm so sorry! Are you ok?" She asked, helping him up.

"Pretty sure my nose is broken."

"I'm so sorry. Hey guys! I'm going to take him to the nurse's office. Keep the game going!" The girl ordered.

"Shiho-san, that's the criminal! Let me go with you!" One boy cried out.

"No Shiho-san, let me! I can carry the delinquent for you!" Another yelled.

"He'll hurt you once you're alone Shiho-san! I can protect you!" A final offered.

"GUYS! I'll be fine! I'm perfectly capable of helping someone to the nurse's office by myself. Just focus on the game, ok?" Shiho said, a little of the fire in her voice.

"But-"

"Enough! Suzui-san, please see to it that he's taken care of. The rest of you, back to the game! Now!" Ushimaru ordered.

The two made their way through the hallway, Yu finally able to stand and walk. Once his sight returned and focused, he saw Shiho in crystal clear detail for the first time. Her hair was silky smooth, her skin looked as soft as the clouds, and her eyes were a hazel brown that seemed to burn with passion during the game. She was beautiful, and Yu found himself entranced by her. She was rubbing her arm in guilt and the fire that burned so brightly before was completely snuffed out now. She turned around, and she looked like she was ready to cry right then and there.

"I'm so, so, so sorry. How are you feeling?" She asked, as she walked alongside Yu, who had taken some napkins to staunch the bleeding.

"Could be better."

"I'm sorry, it's just, when I play, I get so worked up. I often forget how powerful my arms can be when I cut loose."

"You were amazing out there." Yu complemented

Shiho looked at Yu with widened eyes and a slack jaw.

"Y-you're not mad? I-I broke your nose."

"Yea, but that aside that, you were grilling us. I've never seen a girl, or anyone for that matter, play like you do. It was spectacular."

Shiho blushed at the compliment, looking at the ground.

"Great, now I feel even worse for hurting you."

"About that, you seemed to have it out for me. Was it because I was brushing you and Ann off?"

"What? No, it's not that at all. In fact, when Ann told me that she might introduce me to someone, I was worried. So when you didn't show up, I was relieved."

"Why? Wanted Ann all to yourself?" Yu joked.

"What? No, of course not. It's just…" Shiho trailed off, rubbing her arm again.

"Yes?"

"Do you know who Kobayakawa is? Who am I kidding, you're friends with Akechi-senpai and Makoto-senpai, of course you know him."

"Yea, met him by the gates. Gave me the creeps."

"He has a deal with Ann. She stays his obedient little slut, and in exchange, he doesn't lay a finger on me." Shiho explained, the fire starting to relight.

"Slut? What do you mean?" Yu asked, eyes widening in shock at the implications.

"Whenever there's a boy that Kobayakawa needs to get under his thumb, he often sends Ann to get to know them. And almost every time, it ends with them dating."

"So rumors go around that she's willing to sleep with anyone." Yu finished.

"Exactly. Even though she hasn't needed to go that far. Yet." Shiho added the last word with some venom in her voice.

"And associating herself with me, the criminal, would sink her lower."

"Yes. It's nothing personal, I promise. I just… want Ann to be safe and happy."

"I understand completely. But that wasn't the reason why you went after me during the game, then what was?"

"Oh, right, sorry." Shiho said, her fire going out again.

"It's just that, I've been playing volleyball for so long and gotten so good that nothing's a challenge anymore. I barely put in half my effort at the best games. So, when you came out and actually forced me to pay attention, I… got excited." She admitted, rubbing her arm.

"So, I decided to test your mettle, so to speak, and when you gave as good as you got, I, um, kind of started to see you as my rival. Then, I actually put in my full effort and… broke your nose. Sorry about that." She apologized, again.

"Quit saying sorry."

"Sorr- um… ok."

Yu let himself chuckle. She was adorable.

"So, you saw me as my rival huh? I'm flattered. Maybe if it wasn't for those stupid rumors, I'd join the volleyball team just for a chance to repay the favor. Minus the broken nose."

Shiho let out a giggle as they stood outside the nurse's office.

"If it makes you feel better, I didn't think the rumors about you were true. And I certainly don't think so now."

"It does Suzui-san. More than you know." Yu said with a warm smile.

"Please, call me Shiho." She replied, giving an equally warm smile.

"Alright Shiho. Thanks for guiding me to the nurse's office."

"You're welcome. I'm glad I got to meet you. Even if the situation could've been better."

After a visit to the nurse's office, and a text informing Sae of what happened so she wouldn't freak out when he got home, Yu went to the gates and waited in the alley. He looked at his phone and saw that, sure enough, the app was still there. The 'Metaverse Navigator' Igor called it. But when he opened it up, he found that instead of three blank boxes, there was a bookmark. 'Kobayakawa, Shujin, Nation'. He was snapped out of his staring by Akechi's voice.

"Ah, there you are Narukami-san. I texted Makoto-san that we're heading out and won't be back for a few hours. Have you figured out how to get back to that place?"

"I think so. I opened the strange app and found a bookmark. I think if I activate this…"

Yu pushed the button, and the world around them began to vibrate and swirl, the colors and shapes becoming distorted as both Akechi and Yu felt their heads throb. The students closed their eyes, and when they opened them up again, they saw that it worked.

The alleyway had been replaced with a road that led to a sign that said 'Welcome to Shujin Nation! Obey President Kobayakawa and you'll enjoy your stay!". Beyond the sign were two hotels, an airport on a cliff, a beach, and other buildings that looked like they belonged in a resort. They made it back successfully.

"Now, we just have to find Morgana-san, and get our answers."

"Right."

Yu pulled out his phone, the clawed hand opening the app which transformed into a black screen and-

Wait what?

Yu examined himself and found he was back in that strange outfit from before. A black long sleeved tangzhuang shirt with a silver outline and a golden chinese dragon imprinted on the right side of his shirt. On his hands were white gloves with golden claws attached. He also had loose-fitting black dress pants, and black dress shoes with golden scales covering them. Finally, on his face was a silver with a white outline masquerade mask with the Roman numeral "II" branded in gold at the center of his forehead.

"That's… that's the same outfit as before. I didn't see a flame engulf you this time."

"Yea. Guess that means I'm in complete control of my powers this time." Yu said, smirking as he admired himself again. He also felt weight on his back, and when he reached for it, he felt the handle of the katana that materialized after he first summoned Izanagi.

"Find Morgana-san now, admire your choice in attire later." Akechi said, crossing his arms.

Yu looked at his phone. Just like before, there were a red and yellow arrow, but now, there was a blue one, heading for the red and yellow one. At really high speeds too. Yu looked up as he heard the roar of an engine, like a hungry lion coming for its next meal. Shortly after, the Mona-mobile emerged from the trees and screeched to a halt like before with a cartoonish hunch. The front door opened up.

"Hey there guys. Didn't expect you two to come back so soon. What happened to your face Wild Card?" Morgana asked as she stepped out.