I've not you've been waiting for the next chapter. This one ended up taking much longer than all the previous one so I hope it makes up for the long wait.

This character don't belong to me, but to atlus.


Chapter 12

It had been some time now since Sadayo was left alone. The doctor had been called out from her room, which left her lost and confused. Even after Akira left, it took quite a while for any of the nurses to come check on her. Not that she minded; it allowed her time to compose and pat down the tears.

Eventually, one of the nurses did come and apologized for taking so long before she examined her vitals and asked a few questions. Then, when it finally looked like one of the doctors had finally come to see her, he had been called back by one of the nurses. She wasn't sure what the nurse had been telling him, but his reaction caught her attention, especially considering what little she overheard of the conversation...

"What?! The Plague wants to be put in charge of her?!"

"The Plague…?" Sadayo quietly repeated in dread. Hearing such an ominous name was worrisome enough to begin with, but the fact that said person seem interested in seeing her made Sadayo start fearing the worst.

'Am I worse off than I thought? Did I catch some sort of disease? Why would someone with that sort of name be interested in looking at me?'

Every minute on her own was an eternity where she let her imagination run wild as she feared that she was going to be quarantined from the rest of the hospital. Maybe her fainting wasn't from overwork, but some kind of terminal illness? Maybe...

With a tired sigh, Sadayo let herself fall down to her hospital bed, her hand covering her eyes from the ceiling light. "I really need to get some sleep, my mind is way too out of it if I'm thinking of crazy scenarios like that..."

Sadayo tensed up when the sliding door in her room suddenly opened. Figuring that the one entering would be the one the doctor called "The Plague", she swallowed the lump that got stuck in her throat and sat up, letting her hand fall from her face. Apprehensive, Sadayo watched as the doctor, a woman, lowered her chart in front of her—.

"YOU?!"

"Huh?" the doctor blinked, looking a bit puzzled at the sudden outburst from her newest patient, taking her time to get a look at her. "Have we… met before?"

"NOPE! NOT AT ALL — I mean—" Sadayo caught herself, having defaulted to her Becky voice without realizing it. She cleared her throat after a cough from the sudden strain of her throat. "I—I just heard someone being referred to as "The Plague", s—so I was a bit surprised that's all." Sadayo nervously laughed, trying to pass her outburst as no big deal. From the woman's get-up, she can see why the woman can be called "The Plague".

'Why did it have to be her of all people. And she's a doctor?! What does she want with me?' Sadayo did her best to hide her shock, while trying to keep herself from defaulting to Becky again. Sadly, her concern only grew as she noticed her new doctor let out a devilish smirk that caused her to tense up nervously. 'Wait, does she recognize me?!'

"I see..." the Plague remarked with a slight chuckle. "My mistake then. Must be thinking of someone else then."

"Um yeah... I'm sure that's all that it is..." Sadayo smiled awkwardly, unable to tell if the woman in front of her was being honest or not.

"I'm Doctor Tae Takemi, and I'll be in charge of your treatment."

"I'm... Sadayo Kawakami. I'll be in your care." Sadayo giving as courteous a bow as she could manage.

Dr. Takemi proceeded to examine Sadayo, she checked her blood pressure, heart rate and looking for any signs on her body. The doctor seemed quite focused on her work, showing surprising bit of concern as she listened to Sadayo and proceeded to draw blood, as well as some other procedures for testing. Sadayo herself wasn't particularly fond of getting her blood drawn, but did so with little complaint. Once those tests were over, the other woman went off to get some more information, and eventually she came back with the results. She was clearly not pleased with what she found, looking not as concerned as she was when examining Sadayo.

"While we we still haven't pinpointed the exact cause of your collapse, we've definitely found some worrying signs." Dr. Takemi proceeded to study the notes, "It is more than likely that you're suffering from some case of malnourishment. Your resting blood pressure is abnormally high, and your coughing can be attributed to your immune system suffering from the lack of nutrients." She pinned a probing eye back at Sadayo, "Tell me, have you been able to get some decent sleep?"

"I've… I haven't." Sadayo stated, looking slightly guilty. She started to rub the bandages on her right arm.

"Does your family suffer any kind of heart problems?" Dr. Takemi asked, looking fairly annoyed.

"Yes, my father… he died from a heart attack..."

"That's not good," Dr. Takemi scolded sternly. "Lack of sleep can cause heart problems, and those are already likely to be inherited, you know?" Dr. Takemi sighed as she shook her head, "While luckily we haven't seen any signs of such a problem in our test, if you don't make changes, it could get a lot worse for you."

"I'm sorry…" Sadayo apologized, as if a child was being scolded by her parents. "I've… just been so busy that I haven't been able to get some sleep."

"Is it related to your job? Stress can also make things worse." Dr. Takemi flipped her clipboard for info, "Says here that you're a — Teacher at Shujin Academy…?" Dr. Takemi read out the notes, obviously surprised.

"Yes… Is something the matter?" Sadayo asked, confused.

Dr. Takemi just shook her head, "It's nothing. I'm just finding it quite surprising that you'd be overworked to this degree from a teacher's job alone. Though I can see why you'd be so stressed out, considering the constant talk about what happened over there."

"Don't remind me," Sadayo was quick to comment through gritted teeth.

"Still, even with that in mind, I can't imagine your job causing this level of exhaustion." Dr. Takemi studied her notes again, trying but failing to find an explanation. She turned a suspicious gaze at Sadayo. "Are you sure that you've told me everything?"

"Yes, that's everything." Sadayo responded, finding the vase full of flowers to be more interesting than Dr. Takemi.

She could feel Dr. Takemi's glare, obviously not convinced by her statement. "Are you sure…? You do know that there is very little we can do if you don't let us know about what is going on. We aren't miracle workers after all."

"Yes," was all Sadayo could respond with, gripping her blanket tightly.

'I can't tell her about my other jobs.' Sadayo forced to remind herself. She was frustrated with herself, but also frightened about what could happen if caught. 'What if they have to notify the school? All of us are already on thin ice thanks to the Kamoshida and the student scam incidents. If they find out that I've been ignoring my job as a teacher... If they find about my maid job…?' After so many years, Sadayo was now definitely feeling the pressure of having to juggle so many jobs, as well as having to keep them a secret.

"We already get a large number of people coming in at times because of being overworked," Dr. Takemi continued, audibly annoyed. "With so little information, there is not much one can do besides the most basic of procedures."

"I'm sorry..." Sadayo once again reverted to the only word she felt permitted to say.

Dr. Takemi just shook her head as she sighed. "Really though. I wonder if he knew that this would happen when he asked me to be put in charge of you."

"He?" Sadayo was quickly reminded of that brief discussion that she had picked up. "Now that you mentioned it, I heard that you personally asked to see me. Why was that?"

"That's because I was asked by a friend of mine. From what I see here, he's more than likely a student of yours."

"You know Kurusu-kun?! He's a friend of yours?" Sadayo was once again left shocked at the weird network of connections her student had managed to find himself with.

"You could say that," Dr. Takemi smiled, her eyes seeming to be looking beyond the halls. Her smile diminishing her threatening appearance, somewhat. "Though I was quite surprised. He's rarely one to ask for favors out of the blue, especially as honestly as he did back there."

'Kurusu-kun asked her to take care of me? What is he thinking!?' She exhaled and rubbed her forehead, reassessing her doctor, who looked at her not with confusion, but curiosity. 'But… he put his trust in her, didn't he…? Maybe… maybe it's okay if I do the same.'

"Actually… I wasn't being completely truthful about things."

"I see," Dr. Takemi responded, only a raised brow as her sign of surprise. "I take it that you've decided to open up then?"

Sadayo nodded. "The thing is, I've been also working a number of different jobs. Because of that, I haven't had much time to sleep."

"Well that would certainly explain the amount of exhaustion that you have." Dr. Takemi commented as she wrote down notes. "What kind of jobs do you do?"

"A number of things: inventory, paper delivery, dog walking..." Sadayo hesitated to continue, hoping that those would be enough.

"Anything else?" Dr. Takemi asked expectantly.

"No, that's about it," Sadayo shook her head. Even with her putting some trust, there are just some things that she rather keep hidden.

"Very well," Dr. Takemi replied, causing Sadayo to sigh in relief. "Obviously my first suggestion would be to not work as much… but I'm going to take a guess that such a thing isn't an option."

Sadayo shook her head once more.

"Be that as it may, you should start by getting some better sleep and eating better." Dr. Takemi began writing once again, "For now I'm probably going to prescribe you a sleeping aid medication to help with falling asleep easier. Please note that this isn't a permanent solution, nor a reliable one. You need to find a way to work your schedule. We already have planned to have you stay the night, so we'll see how your test result looks after you've gotten some rest. Feel free to ask for some food also. It may not be the best, but it's better than nothing."

"Thank you," Sadayo gave a small bow of gratitude, thankful that she didn't pry too deeply into her matters.

"Also, I want you to come to my clinic for follow-up appointments. I would like to monitor your condition to make sure it doesn't get worse."

"What!?" Sadayo startled at the suggestion. She waved her hands in refusal, not wanting to drag another person into her problem. "Y-you don't have to worry about that. I-it's really not necessary. I'm sure I'll be fine after some rest—"

"Who's the doctor here?" Dr. Takemi refuted, her tone sounding much more stern which halted Sadayo's refusal. "I told Kurusu that I would make sure you get better, and I do intend to keep that. Besides, it's my responsibility as a doctor to make sure that you make a full recovery if I'm able to. That's why doctors and medicine exists after all."

"I… I guess you're right. Again, thank you." Sadayo felt powerless to argue against someone who was so dedicated to her profession, and quietly accepted defeat and Dr. Takemi's offer. She was handed a note with an address. "This is actually really close to Leblanc, isn't it?"

"So you've been there before? Don't think I've seen you around the area," The Plague gave a coy smile at Sadayo's unthinking comment.

Sadayo panicked, trying to find an excuse "W-well, I am his teacher after all, so I know about him staying at a coffee shop."

"Funny, I'm surprised to hear that you know that it's a coffee shop."

'Shoot' "I-I guess there was that one time that I made a house visit. He's seen as a bit of troublemaker at school, so I've had to discuss things with him and Sakura-san." Sadayo smiled nervously, hoping that would be a good enough excuse.

"I do remember him mentioning having some difficulty at school, So I guess it's not surprising that his teacher would be asked to talk to Boss."

Sadayo gave an internal sigh 'I guess there are some advantages to him having the kind of reputation that he does.' From the look of things, it seemed that the doctor made her own conclusions, similar to how Ms. Chouno had done so after Akira gave an explanation. Despite this though, Sadayo felt like there was something off. Maybe it was the tone Dr. Takemi had when she said that, or perhaps the way she looked at Sadayo with that smile of hers. Either way, she felt that prying more on that would only backfire on her and thus, let it go.

"I think I've gotten everything I need. For now, make sure to get some rest. We can continue discussing what to do later." Dr. Takemi began leaving, though just as she was going to open the door she turned back to Sadayo with a curious smirk.

"Still, I must say that it was quite surprising. You weren't willing to cooperate in the beginning, but as soon as I mention Kurusu you seemed to become a lot more open. What is your relation to him, aside from a teacher, if I may ask?"

Sadayo was caught off guard with such a sucker punch of a question. "It's nothing, he's just — you know..." Her thoughts jumbled as she was forced to think about Akira, and what he means to her, but as those thoughts went deeper, she shook them off. "I'm just his teacher… Nothing more."

Dr. Takemi just giggled at her response. "Just a teacher, you say? Then you must be some teacher for him to act like he did." She waved a hand as she slowly opened and closed the door. "Take care."

The door shut close, leaving Sadayo to wallow in her words, looking down shamefully. "I'm really not… I'm nothing of the sort. He's… just too kind."

Soon after, the nurses came by to bring her belongings. As soon as she was alone again, she checked her phone. Sure enough there were a number of calls. Many of them were from the Takases, but just as many had been from her mother, probably driving the nurses mad with her repeated calls to ask for her condition. Sure enough in her message app she had two messages, one was Akira's response, and the other was her mother's. She made Sadayo know full well that she intends to barge in the next time she arrives if she isn't let in. Saying that, as soon as she manages a flight back to Japan, she'd be coming over.

"What am I going to do now…." Sadayo pondered, tapping her phone against her forehead in frustration.

It felt like the walls were slowly coming in on her from all angles. Her countless jobs where officially pushing her to her limits, and even with all that, she wasn't able to keep up with the Takases' demands. If this kept up it would only be a matter of time before Shujin found out about this, and now her mother, who she had been trying so hard to avoid was coming, and this time she probably wasn't going to take no for an answer. Even when she was supposed to recover, she couldn't find rest as her world felt constricting and suffocating. All of this caused her to lose appetite and stopped her from asking the nurses for something to eat.

Time passed as she lay in the hospital bed. She felt a bit more comfortable now that all those monitoring devices had been removed, but in doing so, it removed the only source of noise, leaving her alone at night in a silent room. It was too quiet; she had been keeping herself busy for so long that she found herself feeling restless. The feelings of dread, guilt, uselessness, weakness, worthlessness. — it was all getting to her and she couldn't stand it anymore and she needed some fresh air. She stood up from her bed, grabbed hold of the wheeled stand that held her I.V. bag, and with cellphone in hand, decided to walk around the hospital.

The halls were empty for the most part. Lights dimmed down in certain areas, while completely off if by the windows. She could still hear some the voices of people talking and walking around, so she knew she wasn't alone, but despite this, the halls had a creepy and lonely vibe to them. As she walked these halls, she came to understand why there were so many ghost stories involving hospitals; she was glad that she tended to avoid those, lest her already active imagination started to play tricks on her.

After some time though, she began to tire once more. It was obvious she hadn't fully recovered, but she groaned nonetheless to how quickly her body was giving up on her already. As she turned to another hall, she found a lonely bench. Behind it, the window framed the moon, which spilled light to illuminate the dark hall.

Sadayo took a seat on the bench and gazed out the window. It was mostly clear, though many buildings blocked the view of most of the sky. But even with this the moon was fully noticeable, its present light gently shining down on Sadayo.

Her phone buzzed and broke her melancholy. Sadayo turned on her phone, and to her surprise, she noticed a message from Akira, letting her know that he made it back safely. "Usually I'm the one messaging him when I make it back."

For a week now, it had become a habit for Sadayo to let him know when she made it home safely, something he had asked about after he had noticed her coughing for the first time. He was usually quick to respond and they would chat for a bit; she'd bring up any minor complaints about her other jobs, he would make a joke or comment, show his concern, and then they'd say goodnight. If anything, the reason Sadayo brought her phone was because of that routine, even if tonight's call was not the usual one.

"Well... I guess I can be the one to start things off this time."

[S]: Master?

[S]: Are you still awake?

[A]: I'm still up.

[A]: What about you though? Shouldn't you be getting some rest?

It took him no time to respond back to her, causing Sadayo to let out a small giggle. "That was quick. I wonder if he was thinking the same thing?"

[S]: Everything is fine! Master shouldn't worry so much about poor old Becky.

[A]: Becky…

Sadayo could feel the concern in Akira's words, causing her conflicting emotions to surface once more.

[S]: Honestly, I'm fine.

Sadayo responded, letting down her act.

[S]: Just have some difficulty falling asleep.

[S]: A lot of stuff happened.

[A]: Yeah

[A]: I guess that's true

Sadayo was unresponsive for a while, as she reflected back on his visit. She was still at a daze about what exactly had happened back then. She had witnessed a side of him that she had only seen glimpses of.

The fangs of a person who wasn't afraid to fight.

The way he confronted the Takases had sent shivers down her spine, and she wasn't even his target, so she could imagine how it must have felt from the Takases' end. After seeing that, she could only imagine how crazy the rumors would get if anyone from the school saw that side of him. Yet despite all of that, she never felt like she was in danger. The fact that he backed down when she asked him to showed that he wasn't just someone that had lost their control.

"He was just trying to protect me, Wasn't he..."

She wanted to talk about what he had done and what she herself had done, and the feelings that those things had invoked on her. There was a build up of questions and uncertainties filling her mind. It was a lot to take in, and a part of her still hesitated to delve deeper, afraid of what she might find. But she wasn't in the right state of mind to think about that now — she needed to clear her mind of what is going on. So she decided to push the subject to the back of her mind.

[S]: I mean I wasn't expecting Master to to call a doctor just for poor old Becky.

[A]: Hehehe

[A]: I'm guessing you met up with Dr. Takemi then?

[S]: You really didn't have to do that you know?

[S]: I was perfectly fine.

[A]: I know.

[A]: I just wanted to make sure.

[A]: She can be quite scary at times, but I trust her to prioritize your health first.

[S]: For a highschooler, you seem to have a lot of surprising connections.

[S]: Next thing you're telling me is that you're drinking buddies with a reporter and a bartender.

[A]: Well I do know of a long-nosed man as a prison master, and his pair of warden twins

[A]: Other than that, there is this teacher that I help out from time to time

A smile showed on Sadayo's face, trying hard not to laugh at Akira's joke and disturb the other patients.

[S]: Do you now?

[S]:I'm sure she must be grateful for her caring stud-

Sadayo paused before she finished the message. The reality of things crashed down on her.

"That's right. Akira is my student… I shouldn't be acting like this around him. This is wrong, isn't it…?"

'What is he to me… I mean obviously he's just my problem student, but then he's also my caring master. He's someone who stubbornly never leaves me alone, no matter how many times I tell him to. But he's also someone who accepted me and sought my company. He's someone I've grown to trust,. He gets so worried of others, but he pays so little attention to himself that I can't help but worry about him. I just can't get him out of my mind...'

Sadayo phone suddenly went off, but it wasn't her usual chime from getting messages, but a call. It was the Takases, and as she realized this the cold and heavy feeling of loathing began to surface once more. She knew Akira was probably waiting on the other end, she knew that if she answered that it would only be more of the same. Despite knowing this though, she willfully picked up. It was her responsibility after all.

"Yes... Takase-san?" Sadayo asked

"Hello Miss Kawakami, nice to see you picked up the phone." Spoke the man on the line. "I'm sure that I don't have to remind you, but be sure that you transfer our apology, it would be really inconvenient for us if you didn't. You understand, don't you?"

"Yes... I'll be sure to do it when I can," Sadayo capitulated. Even though she had promised Akira that she wouldn't until she recovered, that they would talk about finding another way, she just couldn't prolong it any more than she already had. Time was a luxury that she had lost a long time ago. All she could do, is do the best she could with the time permitted to her. "I'll be sure to deposit the 500,000 yen when I can." 'I'm sorry Kurusu-kun'

"About that..." the woman's voice now coming from the other end, letting Sadayo know that she'd been put on speaker with the two. The tone from which those words were uttered caused Sadayo's body to tense up, bracing itself for what's to come. "We were quite shocked to see that you had been so foolish enough to try to get yourself involved with another student. I mean we thought that after all these years you'd learned from that terrible incident, but it seems that we were wrong. I hate to do this, but I think that we might have to increase the payment. By another 100,000 yen."

"What!?" Sadayo gasped in shock. "But I can't just get that much money in a day!"

"Of course not. I mean we aren't unreasonable." The voice from the phone spoke with an understanding tone. "We're willing to wait till Wednesday, It's not our usual day, but I think we can compromise a bit…?

"B-but still..." Sadayo still tried to argue, though her voice was no more than a whimper. "I just can't—"

"I'm sure you'll find a way," the voice now being from the man, sounding as confident and expectantly as always. "I mean wouldn't you do anything to continue teaching? I'm looking forward to seeing your dedication as a teacher."

And with that the phone hung up. Once again the walls felt ever-closing around Sadayo. Her time which was thought to be already short, was already gone. She was running out of options, all except one.

Her phone began to ping once more. This time it was Akira trying to reach her.

[A]: Becky?

[A]: Is everything okay?

[A]: you haven't responded in a while.

Sadayo couldn't bear to tell him what had just happened. She knew if he did that he'd start blaming himself, that he'd do something dumb and risky. Not bothering to think twice about how it will affect him. Because he is too caring, and too willing to throw himself to the wolves for others, no matter how much it's not worth doing. She wiped her teary eyes and responded to ease his mind.

[S]: Sorry!

[S]: Becky just got distracted.

[S]: The moon is so nice and full tonight.

[S]: So Becky just lost track of time.

[A]: You sure?

[A]: I just want to make sure that your okay.

Sadayo let out a defeated chuckle, at how obviously miserable she must be for him to start worrying from so far away.

[S]: I'm fine!

[S]: Master worries too much!

[A]: Sorry

[A]: I'll talk to you later okay?

[A]: Just focus on getting some rest for now.

[A]: Goodnight Becky

Sadayo bit her quivering lower lip. She didn't want their conversation to end, as she selfishly desired to steal more of his time. She wanted to talk to him some more, act like the past events hadn't happen and things weren't so complicated for her. She wanted to call him, or him her, for him to tell her that it will be fine, to hear him call her name….

After she left her final messages she placed her phone down, curling as she wrapped her arms around her legs. Gripping them tightly, shaking with fear and insecurity about what will happen to her. She wanted to see him… but she couldn't… she can't.

[S]: Goodnight

[S]: Master


"Hey, is everything okay, Akira? You've been kind of quiet this whole time."

Akira rose his head, his hand finishing his 20th paper crane. The rest of the Phantom Thieves were looking at him with looks of confusion, except for Yusuke who simply continued his work. Ann, the one that had called out to him, looked more concerned than the others.

"Sorry, guess I got caught up with what I was doing and zoned out," Akira responded with an awkward smile, all the while scratching the back of his head.

To Akira's surprise, the group, mainly because of Ryuji, had decided to do a last minute study session at Leblanc. After getting Makoto caught up on why he lived in a coffee shop, they spent a good while of their time studying. But with everything on Akira mind at the moment, he was probably even less motivated than Ryuji to study and shortly after they started, proceeded to ignore it all together and started folding paper cranes. It didn't take long though before a break was needed, and they all proceeded to watch the T.V. as Akechi continue to talk about the dangers of the Phantom Thieves. While still annoyed at his accusation, the group seemed to take the criticisms much better than last time since from the look of things, public opinion was more on their side. Sadly for Akira, what he had learned recently made it very difficult for him to revel in their popularity along with the group, which caught the attention of Ann.

"Are you sure?" Makoto put her pencil down as she joined in the conversation. "I mean I know you've been doing well on your studies so I wasn't going to say anything about the cranes..." She shuffled in her seat as she adjusted her skirt. "But from what I saw on the T.V. during your social studies trip, you seem very vocal about your opposition to Akechi. So it's kind of odd to see you so quiet about it.

"I guess, I've just been trying to look things a bit differently that's all," Akira responded, a sullen look being quite noticeable in his face.

"Don't tell me you're starting to believe all that crap Akechi says," Ryuji groaned as he rolled his eyes.

A small chuckle came to Akira. "No nothing like that. I don't regret having changed any of those people's hearts. People were asking for help and I'm glad we were able to be there to help them." Akira sounded quite proud in his statement, which helped calm the rest of the group. Sadly, this was quickly deflated with a small sigh. "I guess I wonder about those that might end up getting caught in our fame."

"What do you mean…?" Ann asked, seeming both confused and conc/erned about how Akira was behaving.

"I know we always talk about giving courage to those that need it. To show them that they aren't alone and allow them to speak up." Akira ran his hand over his face, doing his best to seem composed. "But… what about those that feel like they aren't worth being saved?"

The group all looked at each other, not quite grasping what Akira was trying to say. Even Yusuke had put his pencil down to listen in. The only one who didn't was Morgana, who knew what Akira was getting at and could only sit quietly with a sad look.

"I'm sorry, if we seem a bit lost," Makoto awkwardly broke the silence. "But, what exactly do you mean by that?"

Akira placed his hands on the table, fingers intertwined with one another tightly. "Right now we are known as the group that target terrible people and change their heart. How do you think someone who viewed themselves as a terrible person would view the existence of the Phantom Thieves as…?"

A look of realization came to Makoto as she realized what he was hinting at.

"Well yeah, but if shitty adults start feeling terrible for their actions, isn't that kind of good in it's own way." Ryuji sadly, hadn't caught on to what Akira was getting at and just looked more confused.

"He's not talking about what terrible people think though." Makoto interjected, sounding quite down. "He's talking about those that are overwhelmed with guilt because of being unable to do things." She shook her head, looking back to her past self and how she viewed things. "I get what he's saying though. I mean before I joined you guys I had started to feel so useless. How I didn't try to look into the stuff with Kamoshida, how I was such a huge burden on my sister. Add that to how I felt so helpless to help all those students that had come to me for help because of the extortion and I started to feel like—"

"—the scum of the earth…?" Ann finished Makoto's sentence, patting her gently on the back as she looked down "But I guess, I get it too. I mean for the longest time I kept blaming myself for not being able to help Shiho when she needed me. I even got so far as to think that I deserved what that bastard's shadow as going to do to me as punishment for failing her."

"I guess to people like them, the Phantoms may end up being a sort shadow over them," Makoto continued after she gave Ann a grateful nod. "Some may even wished to be punished by us."

"If such a thing is true, couldn't one say that their heart would had become distorted as well?" Yusuke finally spoke up. Akira's hand twitched.

"Don't know, I mean even if they feel like that, it doesn't make them a bad guy. So they shouldn't have a Palace," Ryuji thought out loud.

"That might not be technically true," Morgana spoke up, causing everyone but Akira to turn to him with surprise. "I mean all it takes is for one to have a distorted desire, and those don't need to be technically evil ones… I think."

"Again with the wishy-washy stuff." Ryuji groaned.

"Be that as it may, there is no reason to let that falter us," Yusuke spoke once more. "If these aren't truly bad people, then they were simply put in such a state because they were unable to fight back against those that abused their power." Yusuke place his hand on his chin in contemplation. "In fact, if you ask me those are the ones that probably are in need of saving the most. I mean I didn't see myself of needing to be rescued, and yet you still stubbornly tried to do so because you believed it to be the right thing. Whether they decide to pick up that courage and move forward is up to them. The best we can do is give them that opportunity." Yusuke looked towards Akira "If I remember correctly, those were your words when I asked you if giving courage to others would do any good."

"I mean, at the end of the day, all we can do is to make sure that others aren't put into such a situation. Anything after that is up to them," Ryuji added confidently. "No need to complicate things too much?"

"I wouldn't go that far." Makoto admitted with a laugh. "But I do think that we should just focus on giving those people a chance to move past those feeling of guilt. We can't solve all their problems after all."

"I guess you guys have a point," Akira responded, much more relaxed than he had been before. "I just lost track of things for a moment there. Sorry for downing the mood there for a while. And don't worry, It's not like I was thinking of quitting the Phantom Thieves."

Makoto shook her head with a smile "It's fine. I mean, if there are any concerns that any of us have, then it's probably a good idea bring them up. The last thing we want is start causing more harm than good." Makoto grabbed her pencil, looking quite motivated. "Speaking of losing track of things, we should get back to—"

"That reminds me — the celebration party," Ryuji quickly interjected, clearly wanting to delay studies a bit more. "Weren't we gonna do it after exams?"

Makoto sighed "Yes, I believe so."

"Where should we go? I feel like I'll study better if I got something to look forward to."

"What about studying since it will help us as Phantom Thieves?" Akira commented jokingly, acting more like his usual self to the rest of the group, though still working on paper cranes.

"That was way too vague and sounds like something a school counselor would say," Ryuji shrugged. "You know me, I'm a runner. I much prefer to have a finish line that is in reach for me to run towards."

"Please don't just rush through your exams." Makoto asked, concerned.

"The last one was a buffet at a hotel. We haven't gone anywhere since," Morgana stated.

Yusuke suddenly dropped his pencil and spun towards Morgana. "Hmm!? A buffet!?" He asked, much more interested in the discussion than he was before.

"Isn't the firework festival this Sunday? How about that we go meet up for that? Ann proposed to the group.

"Do you guys own a yukata? Will you wear a yukata?" Morgana asked excitedly, clearly interested in seeing Ann in one.

Akira shook his head. "I left mine back at home. I didn't think I'd be in the mood to go to any festivals after all that had happen."

"We don't have that kind of stuff at my place," Ryuji added as well.

"What about you two?" Morgana look towards the girls. "I'm sure Yusuke probably has one, but do any of you have one?"

"I think I still have one that should fit," Makoto stated.

"I'm sure I have one lying around somewhere," Ann add as well.

Yusuke seemed lost in thought over both options. "It's hard to ignore a buffet, but I guess I can take the beauties of summer as well." He then raised his finger, a sly closed eyed smile showing as if proud of his idea. "Still, I demand that we feast during the festival as well."

"What do you think Akira? A firework festival sounds good, right?" Ryuji looked towards Akira, playfully elbowing his arm.

"It would be my first time doing a festival here in Tokyo..." Akira contemplated. He was starting to get excited. "Sure, sounds like a great idea."

"Alright, fireworks it is! Let's make sure to look for a good one!" Ryuji said triumphantly

"Study comes first, though. I won't let you off if you fail any of them." Makoto glared at Ryuji. Her tone being very similar to when she takes command as Queen. "Are we clear?"

"Y-yes, ma'am..." Ryuji stuttered, before putting his head to the books.

Akira couldn't help but chuckle. As he looked at his group of friends, he felt grateful to have met each of them. But as he turned to Ann, he noticed that she was still looking at him with a bit of concern, though she went back to the books when he noticed her. 'I wonder...'

Akira's thoughts were distracted as he got a message from his phone. His expression shifted to panic as he read the message. "Shit! I forgot that that was tonight!"

He stood up from the chair and scrambled to clean his things, ignoring the shocked group.

"Sorry guys, I forgot I had planned to help a friend out today."

"Guess we'll have to do our study some other time," Makoto sighed in defeat.

"We did kind of drop in on you without much planning," Ryuji commented, feeling a bit guilty.

The group decided to clear up quickly as well so he could head out out. It didn't take long and as they said their goodbyes they each headed out. Ann was the last, stopping just before opening the door. She turned towards Akira, that same look of concern that she had previously shown.

"Hey, about what you were talking about..." Ann sounded uncertain. Her hand was crunching one of her pigtails, a habit she tended to do when stressed or nervous. "Do you know someone who's afraid of us? Are they in the hospital?"

Akira was shocked by Ann's question, but made sure to keep it under wraps. Keeping his cool and sounding relaxed he just smiled, "What do you mean?"

"The paper cranes." Ann pointed at the pile that was on the table. "When Shiho was in the hospital, I tried making some for her, like we used to do when someone was at a hospital during middle school. Though I'm no good at it so I didn't get far." Ann scratched her head in annoyance. "So when I saw you making those, I figured, that you were thinking about someone."

"I guess you're right in a sense." Akira ran his hand through his hair. "A… friend was in the hospital recently. They ended up collapsing so I went to see them." Akira replied slowly, being conscious of what words he should be using.

He worried that he might have let too much slip over the past few days. Part of him felt that he should have tried to hide it from Ann, especially now that he knew his feelings towards their homeroom teacher. But he planned to ask the group for their help when it finally came time to hit the Takases In Mementos. If he tried to hide it now, it would only bring more suspicion from Ann. So he settled for bits of truths, enough as to show that he was honest and the hopes that it will slow down the questions later on.

"Don't worry though. She should be out of the hospital by now. Honestly I was just doing the crane so I could practice my proficiency. I could had done some thief tools, but I figure that would've been too distracting for you guys."

'She?' "That's good. I hope she gets better soon." Ann still seemed uncertain but accepted his response for now. She turn to the door, but as she reached out to open it, she hesitated and turned to Akira. "Hey… if something is ever bothering you, please don't hesitate to tell us...okay?" Ann turned away, seeming hesitant to say more, but ended with a shrug. "Anyway, goodnight."

"Goodnight," Akira waved as she left, grateful once more to have found people like them in his life, even if it does make it hard for him to keep things from them at time. He turned to Morgana. "We need to head out."

"You seem in a much better mood now." Morgana stood on the counter next to Akira, looking quite determined. "I assume that you've made up your mind then?"

"I got an idea of what to do, but I want to talk with someone before I finalize any plans." Akira picked up his bag and opened the door. "We Phantom Thieves aren't the only ones that can steal hearts, after all. There is more than one way to steal the hearts and minds of the people."


During the late hours of the night, a small group had gathered at Central Station. A small area, which was previously occupied by a small box, now held a stage and banners. Supposedly Yoshida Toranosuke was going to talk about the Phantom Thieves, which was the main reason for many to and listen to Yoshida's speech this night. As Akira came running up from the underground tunnel from Shibuya Station, he signaled a waiting Yoshida of his arrival.

"Sorry if I'm late." Akira apologized while taking a breather, though not to the same level of exhaustion as he had run the night before. "I lost track of time and was in the middle of a discussion with some friends."

"Do not fret," Yoshida assured him. "Matsushita is still in the process of setting things up, so we are still good on time."

"So have you decided on what to do?" Akira inquired, showing a much more serious face. "You know he's just doing this so you will bring up those false accusations. Not to mention he might still be hoping to convince you to become his right-hand man."

"Maybe." Yoshida crossed his arm in contemplation. "But I've known Matsushita for a long time now, and he has been very straight forward with us this whole time. I trust him to keep his words."

"If you says so" Akira shrugged. He went over and took a good luck at the crowd outside, seeming quite surprised by the numbers. "That's a much bigger crowd than usual."

"More than likely thanks to Matsuchiha's influence." Yoshida nodded to himself in thought. "The advantage of being part of a political party."

"All the more reason to stick to our ideals. Isn't that right sir?" Akira turned to Yoshida, giving him a respectful, and motivated smile.

Yoshida gave out a hearty chuckle. "That is quite true. Aaaah the recklessness of youth, how I miss those years." Yoshida nodded approvingly. "Though I do wish I had put it to better use than I did."

Akira also let out a small chuckle, though his slowly lost a bit of cheer. "Actually, There is something I want to ask you about."

"This is quite a surprising." Yoshida replied, seeming quite amused by the prospect. "Well then, what is it? You've been listening to my this whole time, so I think it's fair that I hear you out."

Akira nodded, "There's…" he hesitated for a bit, swallowing the large lump that had formed on his throat. "Someone important to me. They're in a very dark place right now and I want to be able to help them. But no matter how much I try, I feel like my voice isn't reaching them." Akira's hand squeezed tightly into a fist. "I'm worried cause I'm running out of time, as well as options. But I want to save her-I mean them…" Akira let out a sigh, figuring there was no point in hiding it in front of Yoshida as he look down in frustration at how helpless he felt. "I… want to save her."

"I see…" Yoshida responded, his tone much lower and serious. "That is quite a burden you've found yourself with." He places his hand on his chin, as he contemplates the situation. "If I may ask, Why not ask the Phantom Thieves? You mentioned being a fan of them, and I'm sure that they would be the kind of people to help her."

'Because she is terrified of us? Because I worry about what would happen to her if I took the those bastards down, and she was left all alone with that self-hatred and guilt that she suffers from.' "If it gets to that point, then I will hope that they can help me, but in all honesty, I don't want to rely on them for all my problems." He looked as his hands, dented marks on his palms noticeable from where he pressed hard, before clenching them into a fist. "It won't mean anything if I can't save her with my own two hands."

"I see.. That is most definitely a very admirable stance to take, though not an easy one." Yoshida seemed about to say something when Matsushita, an acquaintance of Yoshida, and the one in charge of setting up this whole thing joined in.

"The stage is set my friend."

Yoshida gave Akira a nod before turning to Matsushita. "Thank you, I appreciate it, but…"

Matsushita raised his hand towards Yoshida. "I know, you don't need to tell me." He shook his head as he lowered his hand down. "You're not going to be my right-hand man, right? Don't worry, I won't pull any tricks or underhanded tactics." He let out a sigh, seeming disappointed, but taking it surprising well. "Just feel free to talk about being falsely accused. I'll handle whatever comes from it."

A crowded could be heard chatting up a storm, many surprised to see such a stage for "no-good Tora", others just hears because they heard that he would be talking about the Phantom Thieves, very few seemed actually interested in what he had to say on anything else, which annoyed Akira to no end.

Yoshida took it in stride though as he turned towards Akira and placed his hand on his shoulder. "Why not listen to my speech from inside the crowds this time. You might find some of those answers that you are looking for."

Akira nodded as she smiled. "Go break a leg, sir."

"Will do." Tora smiled back as he turned towards the crowd. he stood on the wooden platform, which while small, was still bigger than his usual box. And as he prepared to start the crowd went silent.

"Citizens! I would first like to thank you all for coming here." Yoshida began, his voice firm and held none of the doubt from when Akira had first heard him talk. "I'm sure many of you are here to because of the topic of my discussion focused on the Phantom Thieves. So I say, why don't we cut to the chase."

Akira gave an amused smirk as he noticed Matsushita in the crowd looking shocked at Yoshida's direction.

Yoshida raised his voice, commanding the attention of the crowd as he spoke. "I believe that the reason they're causing such a stir is because they are addressing the world's problems."

"What are you doing, Toranosuke…?" Matsushita thought out loud, shaking his head to the reality in front of him. "Are you really okay with this?"

Yoshida didn't' stop though as he continued on. "Setting aside whether their actions are right or wrong… There is one thing I can safely say about the Phantom Thieves. A belief with conviction… has the ability to move a person's heart." Yoshida closed his eyes, as he expressed a look of regret to the crowd. "I'm sure you are all aware that I am "No-Good Tora," the one accused of embezzlement. "I was a full 20 years ago. It's no wonder that I was considered a failure as a politician." He opened his eyes, his showing more determination than he had in the last couple of months. "However, because I was accused like that, I was able to understand the suffering of the weak."

Akira took note of that last part. Sensing something of importance in that statement. 'To understand the suffering of others...' He was reminded of their last meeting. Of how it felt like Yoshida could read him like an open book. How he was able to guess that he had suffered some grave injustice and cruelty just by the look of his eyes. Part of him was annoyed that these fake lenses of him weren't doing a good enough job. But he also spoke of how such events are what allowed him to see the good in those like "No-good Tora" And perhaps it's what allowed him to see Sadayo for who she is when no one else seemed unable to.

"Why am I in politics?" Yoshida continued. "In the past, it was merely for personal gain. But why do the Phantom Thieves continue to change hearts? I for one believe that they do it for the world and its people. And in choosing to do justice for others, they had no choice but to disguise themselves, since those in control would disapprove of their actions." he grabbed the mic, drawing it closer, making sure all that could hear him in this moment. "But know this, no matter what the world, says, I fully support them. I may be an average citizen. However, I will continue to voice my beliefs." he closed his eyes, sounding as if hardening his resolve, his voice calm, but ever strong. "Even if I don't become a Diet member this election… And eve if I am incapable to effect change during my life time… I've made my peace with that. I will be happy, as long as I can be a meaningful stepping stone for the future of our youth!"

The crowd were all silent. There wasn't the usual mocking chatter, or angry heckling that would normally happen, but there certainly wasn't any cheering or clapping either. But Yoshida simply gave a courteous bow, and as he rose, his simply smile to the crowd in front of him.

"Thank you for listening."

As Yoshida left the stage and went to the back, Akira left the crowd from the other end and went to meet up with him, in which he saw him already talking to Matsushita.

"So you really have no intention of accusing old man Kuramoto?" Matsushita asked, clearly annoyed by the outcome.

"That's right." Yoshida simply answered, not a hint of regret or apology in his voice.

Matsushita clicked his tongue in frustration. "...I set the stage for nothing then." He scratched the back of his head, his frustrations replaced with slight disappointment as he looked at Yoshida with a much more amicable look. "But sheesh… such a heartfelt speech for someone your age. People are probably laughing at you as we speak. I doubt any of them were moved by your words." He looked down, with a downed sigh, only to give a defeated smile. "… I might've been the only one in this entire city who was..."

Yoshida was in shock to hear his this admission. "Matsushita..."

"Proceed as you wish with your candidacy. I'll take measures to see it that the party backs you. Within the limits of my abilities, of course." Matsushita then turned to Akira. "He may be a fool, but you sure picked the right person to learn from."

Akira nodded. "I knew that from the beginning, sir. It just took everyone else time to realize that."

Matsushita gave a hearty laugh. "Blunt and upfront till the end aren't ya. You sure know how to pick them Toranosuke… Goodbye old friend." And with that he turned and walked off, leaving the two to ponder the results of this event.

Yoshida hummed to himself in thought, as he let what Matsushita had told him sink in. "My Candidacy… huh? What an unexpected turn of events." His mind drifting to an idea as he thought out loud to himself. "Perhaps, it's the effect of you moving my heart."

"What are you talking about?" Akira asked, unsure of what Yoshida is getting at.

"Where you able to find an answer as I spoke to the crowd?"

Akira nodded. "I think so, though it won't be easy," A look of concern became obvious in Akira's face. "I'm worried that my words won't be able to reach her though..."

"Kurusu-san." Yoshida call Akira's attention. "Do you remember what my philosophy is?"

"Akira looked at Yoshida with surprised look, but as he remembered he let out a small chuckle. "Yes, sir." Akira pumped his fist, as he spoke up. "Never give up until your voice is heard…! To get your message across, be tenacious in conveying your thoughts to the audience. Have a firm point of view, and communicate it clearly."

Yoshida nodded as he smiled approvingly. "That is quite correct, I'm glad to see you remember it quite well. If your audience, if she is so important to you, then don't waver in your resolve." Yoshida stood firm, as if to making sure to show Akira his own conviction. "I may not possess any special powers like the Phantom Thieves in changing people's hearts, but I won't' lose to them when it come to conviction. Yoshida stared down at Akira, as if the challenge was directed straight at him. "I May just have my voice and my words, but they are my weapon, and it is with those which I'm able to win people over. And with all that I taught you, I'm sure you'll be capable of doing so as well."

Akira felt reassured as Yoshida spoke, still nervous about how thing will go, but ready to tackle them. 'It really Is a frightening weapon.' He gave a grateful bow, as if an apprentice thanking his master. "Thank you, I will be sure to do my best."

"Then we should part ways for now. I believe you are needed elsewhere." Yoshida waved him to rise up."

Akira rose his head, as he nodded, showing a much more confident smile. "One more thing." Akira turned to leave by gave Yoshida one more nod. "Matsushita was wrong, he wasn't the only one that was moved by your speech."

Akira sprinted off.

A content Yoshida watched the young man with a small chuckle. "Contrary to what I thought, getting your heart stolen isn't such a bad thing. But to think that a member of the Phantom Thieves would come to me for help in regards to a girl's heart..."

"Good luck to you, Akira Kurusu."


Sadayo sat in her couch, clutching her phone tightly. piles of newspapers, magazines and pamphlet littering the floor around her, a perfect image of her state of mind. For the past 2 hours she'd been trying her best to steel herself about the call that she was about to do, only to panic at the last moment and try desperately to find another solution. She needed money, she needed it fast. And no matter how desperate she was, she refused to ask Akira for that amount.

"Maybe a new job opening would be available? I mean even if it's much farther than I'm used to, and I might have to start doing my school work on commute. But if I can get a high pay it should work out, right?" Sadayo tried to rationalize, but sadly no such job would be available in such a short amount of time.

"Maybe some sort of commission based work? kind of like my maid job. I mean I would have to pile up the hours quickly, but then I can fill up what I need and not worry about the rest." Sadayo argued for. Unfortunately, her experience with Victoria were an easy reminded that such jobs aren't a font of such offerings. If such things were the case than Victoria would have been enough.

"M-maybe if I try selling blood, or bone marrow… or egg cells? I've heard that a lot of people have been doing that to get some quick cash…right?"

Sadayo desperately tried to grasp any thread that would give her an out from her situation. But as each one failed to provide her and out, the reality of her situation kept sinking more and more. She didn't' want to do this, she wanted out, but it was because she ran from Takase that he died, she had no right to run from her punishment.

"It's my responsibility after all…" She whimpered in as she finally called. She let out a long sniff and rubbed her eyes, doing her best to compose herself before the phone answered.

"Hello, this is Victoria!" How may we help you?" A woman cheerfully answered the other line.

"Hey, it's Sadayo Kawakami. I would like to talk to our boss." She asked, sheepishly.

"Ah, Kawakami-san. I'll direct you to him then." The woman responded, sounding a lot less chipper and much more professional.

She had been put on hold, each loop of the song felt like hours when it barely lasted a minute. Like it was taunting her, giving here chance to hang up and act like this isn't happening. Eventually though, he phone picked up, a much gruffer voice voice coming from the other end.

"Kawakami-san. I've already given you more hours than I probably should have. I can't just give you every customer.." The man sounded annoyed, probably having had this argument with for so long now and probably expecting what was to come.

The man never failed to annoy Sadayo, especially during their long arguments that they would have at times about her hours, but she couldn't distract herself, doing so would weaken her resolve, and after going this far, she couldn't back down. "Actually, I want to talk about me quitting.

"I see." the man bluntly replied. "Well I'm not surprised, I expected to get this call at some point. I will say though that I'm Impressed, considering how long you've been with us. You definitely were a hard worker."

Sadayo was surprised by the man's compliment, though could had gone without the backhanded nature of it. "Thank you sir, but… I'm also calling about the possibility to being transferred to your sister company."

"I see…" There was much more of a pause this time around, the phone being quiet, which only made the tension on Sadayo's end to worsen. You understand what that would entail yes?"

"Yes sir." Sadayo answered.

"And you do understand that your likelihood of running into shady individuals is higher."

"...Yes sir." Sadayo forced out, of her lips.

"As long as you understand, what you do after this is none of my business after all. We can talk about the transfer process as soon as you wish."

Sadayo eyes turned to her table, fixated on the assortment of containers, thermos and utensil that she brought back with her. A note that came with them sitting in her pocket. Her hand went in and fiddle with said note, as she remembered the surprise that was left for her by her student.


She had received a message from him early in there morning from Akira during her paper route.

[A]: You asked for a warning for next time.

[A]: Look in the lower right shelf of your table.

"What is he planning this time?" Sadayo asked herself, as she went back home and change to her more casual clothing.

After The Takases call last Saturday, Sadayo felt the pressure to leave the hospital as soon as possible and make it to her jobs. Something that Tae seemed to notice, reprimanding her for even thinking about going to work immediately afterwards. Despite this she threw herself back to working as much as she could on Sunday so she had barely eaten or relaxed since her stay in the hospital.

Sadayo eventually got to the school, and after remembering the message from Akira, looked inside her desk. To her surprise, she came to find that there was a package wrapped in a cloth of some sort. She looked around, and after making sure she wasn't noticed as she removed the knot and found two small containers, a thermos, and a spoon, with a note wrapped around the handle. One container contain rice, while the other one seem to be filled with curry. Sadayo was quite surprised by the package, but as she read the note she let out a weak smile.

I figured you've probably haven't been eating that well, and I had some leftovers, so I figured I'd share some with you as well as some coffee to help out.

I want to talk to you, so please leave yourself available tonight. You can return the containers to me then.

Becky, I hope to talk to you soon.


"Actually..." Sadayo eventually broke. "If it's okay you, we can do this tomorrow. I' can at least work while you get everything sorted out. Just in case any requests show up."

She could hear and audible huff from the other end of the phone. "Very well, I would give me some time to arrange stuff around. We'll discuss this tomorrow."

"Thank you sir. Goodbye." Sadayo hung up as she took out the note from her pocket as her thoughts went to her troublesome student "Seriously, it's hard to tell at times if he's just that lucky or if he can understand me that well."

Sadayo turned to the remains of the effort and time Akira had taken to prepare food for her, the effort he put to make sure she got it without anyone noticing, and the note that he left her.

That feeling that she felt that night in the hospital never left. That desire to see him and hear his voice. She thought that after seeing him at school that it would go away, but in a way it wasn't enough, and that longing only became stronger as she struggle to make the phone call.

Her phone began to ring and as she saw who it was felt her heart beat faster, being quick to pick up. "Hey!" She replied, the enthusiasm of her voice not coming from Becky, but Sadayo.

"Hey," the voice on the other end spoke. Ringing inside her head as wave of emotion. "I get it that you got my message?"

"Yeah..." Sadayo confirmed, both happy to hear from him, but sadden as well for what was to come. "Actually… I need to talk to you as well."

"Then I'll be sure to put out a request. I'll see you soon, Becky."

"Yeah, wait for me, Master." Sadayo hung up as she stared at the phone. Her head down as she prepared for her last outing. Becky's last night with her caring master. Sadayo was smiling, but it was a sad, lonely smile as a small tear ran down her face. "I'm… going to miss him."


Sadayo entered the cafe to the smell of brewing coffee. It seems like Akira wasted no time and as soon as he knew she was coming had started to run the siphon. "That's strange, it smells kind of flowery." Sadayo commented, as she'd started to take recognize the differences in the coffee that Akira would brew.

"It's not surprising," Akira began talking as he remained focused on brewing. "These kinds of bean tend to have a more fruity taste to them so it is reflected in the smell."

Sadayo couldn't help but smile as he explain the delicacy of the coffee beans. "You're sounding more and more like an expert on this with each night." Sadayo took a seat, looking around her surrounding as she poured her a cup. While she never disliked the shop's style, it ha definitely grown on her as the weeks went on. How it felt so inviting, quiet and isolate from the rest of the world, maybe it was partially because of this, along with the lighting, that she had grown to become so comfortable around Akira, perhaps this is what made seeing him now feel so different to when he was at school. In here, it felt like it was just the two of them. Just a maid and her master as they spend the night in each others company... Even his room which she first saw as ragged and dingy had become quite endearing to her.

"Here" Akira offered her a cup before pouring one for himself.

Sadayo took her time, feeling the warmth of the cup in her hand as she smelled the aroma coming from it and taking a sip. Her smile betraying why she had come here for today. "You know, I've really have come to like the antique feel of this place." Sadayo smile becoming sadder as she stared at the cup, wanting to get things over with or else she'd find herself hesitating once more. "But sadly I have to say my goodbyes tonight."

"What do you mean?" Akira turned a glance towards her. He sounded wary and concerned, but not surprised.

"The thing is, I've actually decided to quit!" Sadayo responded, trying to sound much chipper about the news than she really was. "...My boss just so happen to find me a part-time job that pays better than this one. So I'll be moving to start that job soon."

Alarms started sounding in Akira's head 'She's not suggesting she...she couldn't have…?' "So by quitting you mean just hopping to another job?" Akira gave Sadayo a suspicious glare, which made her look away nervously, only enforcing his suspicions. "Please tell me you're not talking about that sister location you had mentioned in the hospital are you?"

"No, it's nothing like that." Sadayo tried desperately to refute. "It just so happens to-"

"Find a job that your company knows of and pays much better than your current job as a maid." Akira was quick to remind Sadayo.

Sadayo could only look away, unable to answer Akira's interrogation.

"Kawakami!"

"Why did I have to open my big mouth about that?" Sadayo regretted having told Akira more than she should have in her moment of weakness. "It would had been so much easier for me if you hadn't had asked that." She continue to look away in shame, as a crawling feeling of disgust fall over her, as if a large number of hand began grabbing hold of her, causing her to curl up. Hugging herself tightly as a defeated chuckle escaped her lips. "You're probably disgusted by me now... aren't you? I mean why wouldn't you be."

"Of course of not, I'm worried about you." Akira quickly interjected, "Why did you do this? I thought we were going to talk things out?" he frustratingly demanded, before a realization came. "It's them isn't it?" he growled.

Sadayo position was unchanged, as she continue to avoid her master's gaze. She stayed quiet from some time, but realizing that hiding things from him wouldn't work decided to be honest. "Takase-kun's guardian's called me that Saturday after you left. They increased the payment on me. I tried to look for anything that could help, but I'm out of options and running out of time. This is just what I have to do."

"Damn them!" Akira Slammed his fist against the counter, causing Sadayo to flinch with a soft whimper. Once again he let his guard down, thinking that she was safe. "Please reconsider. There has to be another option."

"I told you didn't I!?" Sadayo weakly protested. "I tried desperately to find something, anything that I could go to, but I cant' I just can't!" Sadayo shook her head in frustration as her voice became nothing but a whimper as she hid her face with her hands. "I have nothing left, this is all I can do…"

It pained Akira to see Sadayo like this, and he was kicking himself for his outburst. her sudden news had caught him off guard and now she was closing herself off. He needed to turn the tides, he needed her to listen to him, if he was going to save her.

He walked from the counter and towards Sadayo, crouching down and looked upward to her hidden face. "Kawakami..." his voice calmer, thought not getting a reaction from her as she continued to hide. "Kawakami, please.. look at me. I'm not disgusted or hate you or anything of the sort. Just be honest with me, do that and I'll give up. But can you look at me in the eyes, and tell me that this is really what you want?"

"What do you mean? Sadayo gave Akira a cursory glance, still keeping to herself. "The Takases say that the only true way to apologize to Takase-kun is by paying them. If that's not true, then what was the point of paying them all these years? Of me ignoring my responsibility as a teacher for those payments?" Sadayo let out another pathetic chuckle. "Maybe I really should quit being a teacher… I mean no one wants me there by this point. I might even get out of having to pay them if I'm no longer a teacher" Sadayo looked at Akira, Forcing herself to give a big smile. "I mean people like me have no right being a teacher. And if I quit on my own, then I won't' have to pay them….So I'll just quit both my teaching job and my maid job… That way I won't have to go to the sister company. There, you're satisfied now, right?" Sadayo asked in frustration. She wanted to end this quick, say their goodbyes and end it. But instead he stubbornly kept trying and wouldn't give up. The longer they went on, the more it hurt for her to say goodbye. "I told you didn't I, some people aren't worth helping.. So please, just let me go."

Akira could tell that Sadayo was at her limits, she had to be to have reached this point. Ignoring the aggressiveness of her questions he stayed focused. His voice calm and regretful. "I understand how frustrated you must be. Considering how long you've been doing this, to have that all be for nothing is beyond painful. But, you still haven't answered my question." His voice changed right then to one much more stern. "I didn't ask, what the Takases said, I asked if this is what YOU want? Is this really what you've decided?"

"How can you be so certain?" Sadayo glared at Akira. Her body slowly coming up from her coiled up state."How do you know that this wasn't my decision? You've only known me for 4 months, and it wasn't till the end of May that we actually started talking to one another! So why? Why are you so sure that you know me!?" She stood in front of the crouching Akira, her face flared up similarly to the night in which she had reprimanded him for wasting his money on her.

'Always the fighter.' A small smile of victory slipped along his lips as he stood up, towering over his upset maid. Placing his hand on his pocket as he stood his ground without fear. "Tell me then? Why are you still a teacher?"

Sadayo was caught of guard by the sudden question, being reminded of when Ms. Chouno had asked her the same thing. "W-what do you mean?"

"Sorry, I can't give you the answer to that. I mean you said it yourself just now didn't you, how I don't know you? So tell me, if you really felt yourself unworthy of being a teacher, why are you still teaching?"

"I… I don't know. It's been so long ago." Sadayo's temper started to cool, as she tried to think of an explanation for Akria's questions. "I mean I truly felt bad about what happened to Takase-kun, so I should've resigned. And yet I still remember feeling the need to teach.. I know that because.. I still feel that way even now."

"I thought you said you didn't want to be a teacher anymore? That it was your decision?" Akira commented as he started to see a crack from which to focus on. "Wouldn't what you said right now be your true answer?"

"Kurusu-kun" Sadayo looked toward Akira, as he patiently awaited her answer.

The crawling sensation that she was previously feeling began to dissipate, as it is replaced with a feeling of warmth that started in her chest and spread all over. Sh crossed her arms as she tried to remember back to the day she heard of Taiki's passing, something she had avoided doing because she felt it to painful. But for some reason, she felt a desire to give him her honest response and pushed forward, until a realization came to her.

"Oh, that's right.. When I heard the news of Takase-kun's death I cursed my weakness and how I had failed him. How if I might've been able to save him if I hadn't been afraid of rumors or labels back then. And so I decided that the way to apologize to him was to make sure there won't ever be another student like him" Sadayo gestured to herself as she placed her hand against her chest. "I wanted to become a teacher who takes care of her students. A teacher that would stand up for her students and guide them forward and to see as they grow up with a sense of pride, just like my father did. That's the mindset that I had at the time!"

Sadayo looked to see Akira's reactions, she could see that he was smiling, seeming happy to hear her come to this conclusion. However Sadayo just shook her head sadly at this realization. "But look at me now. I spend all my free time at part-time jobs, just so I can continue working as a teacher. And yet with all of that I just lazily did the bare minimum." Her hands grabbed tightly to her apron as she looked down in shame. "I put the critical work of a teacher on the back burner, treating it like it was a burden that I had to deal with instead of the reason that i was working so hard for. And for what? Just so I could make 'apology' money." Sadayo shook her head once more, finally coming to terms with her mistake. "That's where it all went wrong… I can't make things right with Takase-kun like this..."

"That may be so, but it's not too late." Akira finally spoke up once more. leaning forward, giving Sadayo a comforting smile "As long as you have that desire to teach, there is still time to fix those mistakes."

'Kurusu-kun…' As Sadayo looked towards Akira she could feel as a number of emotions that she had long lost start to surface She could feel as she got her second wind and could finally move on. After so many years, she felt like she had finally found her path in life, to have found meaning and a desire to strive forwards.

"Yeah, you're right." Sadayo nodded in response. "I'll be the teacher that I aspire to be… That's the right way for me to make amends to Takase-kun, and how I honor the memory of my father. From here on, I refuse to pay them any more money! Instead I'll put all my focus into helping my students. And that is my answer!

"...Well, what do you think?" Sadayo gave Akira a big smile

"Why are you asking one of your students?" Akira teased slightly as he messed with one of his messy bangs. He cheered internally at his teacher's proclamation to stop paying the Takases. "Be confident in your answer."

Sadayo giggled at Akira's response. "You're right. After all, you can't get the right answer from someone else. It can only be found from within… That is what you taught me, I guess that's why I felt so comfortable asking you. Because in a way, you're MY teacher." Sadayo couldn't help herself but laugh, feeling more alive than she had in a long time.

Akira felt a huge sense of relief knowing that his words had managed to reach her. But as he witnessed Sadayo laugh and smile and look so alive, he could feel a strong desire in his heart. He placed his hands in his pockets to keep it check.

"I'm only kidding of course" Sadayo clarified soon after she finished laughing, Noticing the blush cheeks on Akira's face. "Still, I have a lot of mistakes to fix, and it won't be easy." Sadayo spoke up, obvious of the difficulty she will be facing, but her voice sounding more determined than defeated. "For the longest time I've been so worried about making money that I haven't been paying attention to my students. And that goes especially to you."

Sadayo's expression become softer, her voice much more caring as she looked toward her student "I averted my eyes from you, and even wished for your expulsion because you were labeled, just like Takase-kun was…"

Sadayo looked to Akira, smiling as her eyes were filled with affection, grateful for having him in her life.. 'So he really did know me that well. it's strange to think that it'd become so close to a student that they'd understand me better than I did myself. Honestly I keep having to remind myself, since I'm so attached to him. Because in truth he's more than just a student to me, more than just my master. He's…. a dear friend. Yeah...'

Sadayo gave Akira a determine look in her eyes, standing proudly in front of him. "But from now on, I'm going to protect you too. As your teacher, I will never betray you."

Akira nodded back to her. "Thanks." 'Yeah, as my teacher...' Akira knew that his feelings were one sided, but it still stung to hear her say it like that, as if he was already being rejected before he even had a chance to tell her. Still he was coming to terms with that and wasn't going to let that ruin the mood after how hard he worked. Though there still was one concern in his mind. "Still, what will you do about the Takases?"

"I'll be sure to speak with them." Sadayo smiled confidently. "I'm not going to run anymore. Everything should be fine as long as I talk to them face to face." Sadayo looked at her watch, looking a bit annoyed at how little time was left. "Speaking of which I should go. I'll see you later, okay?"

Akira wasn't feeling as optimistic about the situation as Sadayo was. He'd run into his fair share of scumbags and monsters, and the Takases are right up there on the top in his mind. They're not the kind of person that would back away that easily. But Sadayo had regained her spirit back, and he wanted to have faith in that confident smile of hers. "I hope you're right, but know that if anything happens I'll be there to help you. Because, I want to protect you as well."

Sadayo let out a small giggle at Akira's declaration. "...That kind of line only works from someone old enough to handle his own household chores." Sadayo looked once more at the person in front of her, her cheeks blushing red. "..But, thank you, for everything...Good night, Kurusu-kun."

"Good night, Kawakami."


It was the second period of classes, It was a free period for Sadayo, but it was far from relaxing. As she sat in one of the chairs at the student's guidance office she readying herself as she called their number. Being answered by a female voice.

"Hello, this is that Takases Residence. To whom may I be speaking."

"Hello, this is Ms. Kawakami calling."

"Ms. Kawakami? I'm surprised to hear from you so soon. Are you calling because you're having trouble paying the amount. If so then I apologize, but me and my husband can't accept any more delays, I'm sure you understand." The woman explained. the faux sympathy coming through very clearly, much to Sadayo's surprise.

'Did.. she always sound like this?' "Actually, I'm calling to let you know." Sadayo took a deep breath. "I've decided that from now on I won't be paying any more apology money. I hope you will understand."

"What?" the woman asked flatly on the phone completely caught off guard by Sadayo's declaration. "But what about Taiki. Have you so easily forgotten what you did to him?"

"I still intend to make amend for my failure to help Takase-kun. But I've come to realize that in focusing on paying the apology money, that I've disregarded the needs of my students. So instead I will focus to help them—"

"So you've finally decided to show your true colors!" The woman on the phone interrupted seeming much more agitated than before. "You never really cared about him did you, considering how easily you seem to be discarding you're responsibility to his death."

A few day ago, an attack like this would had have her constantly apologizing as she was filled with blame and self-hate, but the her on today is different, and instead Sadayo is left annoyed by their insinuation and manipulation.

"My responsibility is to the students of this school, and it had been one that I had discarded for so long to make those payments. It's clear that you're being irrational so I shall end this call now. If you wish to continue this discussion I will be glad to discuss this with both of you, but for now I have a job to do and I don't intend to run away from it like I did before. Good day."

With That Sadayo hung up the phone. the fight wasn't over. She'd had probably a long battle in front of her, and the possibility of them taking her to court or arguing to the board of education as they had threatened her so many times was a real possibility. But she had prepared herself for that reality last night. she wouldn't back away and she'd face them head on. As as she thought of what was to come she was surprised find that it wasn't with a sense of fear or dread in her heart, but with determination and resolve.

"It's… actually happening." She said, feeling as she could finally the light at end of the tunnel. And as she imagine that light, a figured popped in her mind. Someone that she felt grateful and wanted to tell the news as soon as possible, but considering how exams are starting soon it would probably the best not to excuse him from class and decided to wait till lunch period. as she went to her next class, with a smile on her face and her notebook held closely to her chest. 'I wonder how will he react when I tell him? I'm actually looking forward to it!'

For the remainder of the first half of school, Sadayo did her best to work hard to teach her classes. Though it was still difficult for her a times considering she still hadn't let her body fully recover. Her enthusiasm hadn't gone unnoticed though.

"Did something happen to you last night Ms Kawakami?" Ms. Chouno asked looking quite surprised to see Sadayo putting so much effort all of a sudden. "You seem different."

"Huh?" Sadayo turned to Ms. Chouno, smiling awkwardly as she scratched her cheek with her index finger. "I guess…?"

"While it's all well and good to finally have you putting some effort," Ms. Usami joined in on the conversation. "Please pay more attention to what you're doing. There are students talking about how you seemed to space out when writing on the board and started writing nonsense until the class representative asked you about it.

"I'm sorry about that. I've just had a lot on my mind these past days." Sadayo bowed apologetically from her seat, embarrassed about the whole thing. While her mind and spirit were ready to go, her body still hadn't fully recovered, and she knew that it would probably take some time for her to do so, so mistakes were going to happen. 'Still, I'm glad I didn't end up writing anything embarrassing.'

"I wonder though," Mr. Hiruta waltz into the conversation, ever drawing the attention as always. "This new spring in her step, the vast amount of energy and life in her, despite the her body clearly looking worn and tired."

"Thank you so much for noticing…" And annoyed Sadayo mumbled sarcastically to herself, though it seemed to go unnoticed by her colleague.

"I wonder…" Mr. Hiruta gesture, having come up with a conclusion to his inquiry "Could it be that our Japanese teacher has found romance?"

"What!?" Ms. Chouno and Usami both look at shock at this conclusion, but just as surprised to hear this was Sadayo.

"What are you talking about, It's nothing like that." Sadayo protested, a blush clearly noticeable in her cheeks, her expression becoming much more reserved after calming herself. "It's just that, I've come to realize a lot of my mistake, and I want to do my best to make things right, that's all…"

'What is he saying, of course it's not something like that. I mean, it's not like that with me Kurusu-kun. He's just a friend, I don't have those kinds of feelings for him. I'm just a bit riled up with all that happen. I mean with how he rushed to my aid and comforted me, and helped me… the way it felt when he held me….

I-I'm sure once this is all cleared up I'll be able to realize that it was just me over thinking things…. right?'

The three teacher all looked at Sadayo as she lost herself in her thoughts, before looking at each other. They all seemed confused by this drastic shift in personality. None of them said anything, but they all started to wonder if a certain group had done something to her.

"Ms. Kawakami." Chouno asked Sadayo, snapping her away from her thoughts. "Are you sure you have been feeling alright? Has anything strange happen to you recently? You did seem quite out of it last Saturday."

"I-I'm fine, I'm fine!" Sadayo waved it off, worried about her line of questioning. "I just felt a bit under the weather that's all." The school bell rang, and Sadayo let out and internal sigh of relief to hear that lunch period had start. "Looks like it's lunch time. Sorry, but I have to go, I need to discuss some matters with Kurusu-kun. The rumors on him have only be getting worse, so I want to see how he's doing." Sadayo Stood up and with a bow left the room, confusing the other teachers.

"She's even purposely interacting with, and checking on our problem transfer." Ms. Usami stated. "You don't think that she had her…?" Her question only netting her a shake for their heads and a shrug from the other two.

Sadayo use the intercom system and called Akira to the Student guidance room, where she patiently waited for him to arrive. Feeling a bit embarrassed at how excited she felt about telling him the news.

The door opened and in came Akira, carrying his bag in tow. "You asked for me Ms. Kawakami?" He closed behind him and moved towards her.

Sadayo stood from her seat and met him halfway. A smile noticeable her face as she closed one eye and placed her palms together. "Sorry about taking time away from your lunch, but I really wanted to tell you as soon as I possible. I called the Takases, and I let them know that I'm not going to be paying them any more." Sadayo pump her fist energetically as her smile widened. "Not only that, but I've also started working on quitting all my part-time jobs. Though I'm still in talks with all my bosses about it so it will take some time.

"That's great!" Akira's enthusiasm showing in his response and happy to see Sadayo finally getting her life together. "Just let me know if you need anything, I can always make you some lunches if you like."

"I'll… think about it." Sadayo, shifted awkwardly at the concept of her student regularly making her lunches, but kept her cheerful demeanor. "But today is a new beginning for me. I'm going to devote myself to being a great teacher! No matter what other say, I won't waver." Sadayo Looked into her students eyes, feeling mesmerized by them as she felt her body warm up and smiled. "I wanted you to be the first to know, since it was because of all your help that I was finally able to reach this point. I'm so grateful for all the support and good advice that you'd given me. So, thank you…"

Their discussion was interrupted as a knock could be heard from the other end. A female voice calling out. "Ms. Kawakami? are you still in here? you have a guest. It's the Takases…"

A look of shock showed on both their faces.

"Wait! They're here? At school…!?" Sadayo panicked, became flustered and wide eyed.

Sadayo already expected to continue their conversation, but she didn't expect them to come directly to the school so quickly. She could tell that Akira, attitude had drastically changed after hearing this, no longer was the soft expression on his face present, but and angered, and defensive one. Seeing this, she took of deep breath and calmed herself. this was way sooner than she had planned, but nothing changed. She told Akira that she wouldn't waver or run away, and she was determine to show how just how much he had helped her change.

The two strode into the room, a look of frustration present on both their faces. The woman turned her gaze, noticing the frightening student from the hospital was present once more and clicked her tongue in annoyance."

"And he's here as well?"

"You know it, lady." Akira taunted, making little effort to hide his disdain for the couple. "Sensei is still recovering from her time in the hospital, so if you have a problem I would appreciate it if you took you're complaints elsewhere."

"H-how Rude!" the woman growled back. Probably feeling much braver since they were at school grounds. "But I guess a student is only as good as his teacher. Obviously you lack a proper education."

Hearing them talk down to Akira like that frustrated Sadayo. Her fist clenched tightly as she stared down the couple. "You know nothing about him, so I ask that you refrain from talking about any of my student in that manner. Besides, your complaints are with me aren't they?"

"You're damn right it is!" The man yelled in frustration. "Do you really think you could just call and say that you're not going to pay anymore? Who do you think you are?

"I'm a teacher." Sadayo answered. Not a hint of hesitation in her voice as she stared back at the man in front of her. "And one who is going to make sure that there won't' be any more students like Takase-kun. Who-"

"See it's like I told you." the woman interrupted her once more. "All she's doing is trying to get out of her responsibility." She placed her her fingers by her lips, her words dripping with venom as a twisted smile became noticeable. "I bet you don't even care about poor Taiki! How are you still a teacher? Maybe we really should sue the Board of Education!" The woman head tilted to the side, her voice clearly heading towards mocking as she continue to press on Sadayo's past mistakes and fears. "Are you OK with that? A teacher who caused her students to die would surely cause a scandal."

Akira was agitated to beginning with, and hearing this woman talk to Sadayo like that, especially after all the tears she let out for her student, was pushing Akira to the edge. But as he turned his gaze towards Sadayo he saw no signs of shakiness or fear. This was her battle now, and as much as he wanted to jump in, he didn't want to take this away for her, as she needed to face this head on.

Sadayo stood there as she listen to the Takases go off on her. Taiki's name kept being brought up, but it was never with care of sadness, but with manipulation. As if they cared little about him himself and were just using him. 'The way they talk about him… Were this always so awful…? I must have been a real idiot to let these two use me like that…'

"And what did you two do for him?" Sadayo bit back back at their accusations, frustrated at her self for not noticing the true nature of these two individuals, but mostly frustrated to realize just how desperate Takase-kun must have felt. "You had him working all those part-time jobs, compared to my tutoring sessions. You should had known that he was motivated to work hard and go to college, you could had helped lightened the load for him as his guardians! But instead you pushed him to work himself to death, just so he can have enough to continue his education while living. He was under your care, so What did you do for him.!?"

The Takase seemed taken aback by such a sudden take down. Probably having become used to the complacent and guilt ridden person that they had been using. A smug smirk showing on Akira's face from behind Sadayo.

"I know I screwed up when I gave up on helping him in the end, but I'm not going to run or hide! I'm going to spend my time here, taking care of my students." Sadayo place her hand on her hip as she leaned slightly to the side. A pose that Akira recognize whenever she'd be lecturing or nagging him, as she directed it against the couple. "If you want to take legal actions, then go ahead. Regardless, I'll be here, and continue teaching. It's what I decided to be the best apology that I can make to Takase-kun. Paying money to you two is not the solution, to say the least! If that is all you have to say then I suggest to leave, I have students to take care off, and I've already wasted enough time thanks to you two." Sadayo sternly proclaimed.

The Takase were confused, wondering where this rebellious spirit came from. Akira let out and audible whistle of surprise at seeing Sadayo tear them down. Seeing her fight back against them definitely gave him goosebumps and was enjoying looking the Takase as they were unable to comprehend what was going on. 'Maybe she could do this on her own? Maybe he wouldn't need to gather the Phantom Thieves/' As those optimistic thoughts came to mind though, a part of him was still concerned. Sadayo had taken their threats and challenge them, facing their bluff and daring to fight her. With how petty the Takases were, he'd expect them to start panicking after their leash had been severed, but they didn't. They were confused, sure, but there were no signs of their fall. 'They must have something else on their sleeves, but what...'

Eventually the man composed himself, looking up and down Sadayo in a way that made Akira want to slug him, the urge only growing when he let out a malicious grin. "Very well, and while we're suing you, maybe I should tell everyone about your little secret…"

'He wouldn't…?' Akira hoped that his fear wouldn't come to pass.

"...You know. About your little stint as a sex worker."

'Dammit! Of course he would.'

"How did you…!?" Sadayo asked in a panic, her stern and determined expression shattered, and in its place, all that was left was wide eyed shock.

"Oh?" The man grinned victoriously. his expression almost seeming monstrous to Sadayo. "So I'm right, am I?

"WHAT!?" Sadayo's body coiled back in horror, she screwed up and jumped the gun again. "But why would you-?"

"Do you take us for fools?" the man gloated, having gotten the upper hand." I mean, the amount of money you're paying us can't come from just a teacher's salary." The man walked closer to Sadayo who had her wind knocked out of her, reverting back to her old self as she was unable to face them, her eyes starting to look dead as she began to hug herself. He leaned forward. coming close to her. "Well? Why don't we head over to the faculty office? I'm sure they'd love to hear all about your other job."

'I'll kill them!' Akira's eyes were filled with bloodlust. He'd seen shadows that were more compassionate than these two, and he wiped the ground with them without problem and not a sense of remorse. If it wasn't for Morgana's' constant whispering to calm down and the remainder of Mementos, he would have grabbed them both from the throat then and there.

The animosity did not go a miss from the Takases who both seemed much more weary of him, but this time they had no intention of letting go of their golden goose. After all, if Akira struck at them, they would have more than enough evidence to sue the school and drag Sadayo even further. A fact that both of them knew as they grinned at the restrained student, mocking him.

Akira wondered if that was the look Kamoshida had given Ryuji when he had goaded him into striking him.

"Stop… please." Sadayo's begging was but a whimper. All that courage she had built up was crumbling into nothing.

The man just laughed at her. "A teacher working in the sex industry? You've definitely done it this time. But then I'm sure that's all a worthless piece of trash like you could ever be of some worth." He leaned forward to Sadayo ear, making sure she could hear his words. "You really thought you could just leave Taiki's matter unsettled…? I hope you finally understood your place, right? You know when your next due date is, right?. So pay up! And don't ever bring this garbage about stopping those payments! Time is running short, so make sure to work hard, For dear Taiki's sake."

The two walked away, gloating in their victory over the other two. Akira was at a loss, doing his best to lower the rage that was building up, but having difficulty to do so. Every bone in his body was telling him to run off and take care of them then and now, and it took every restraint in him to not do so. Sadayo on the other hand was broken, placing her hand on the table to keep herself from falling from the shock. Her mind still not quite processing what had just happened to her. All she could do was laugh.

"I guess I can't quit my part-time jobs just yet. Her body shook as her hand rose to cover her mouth. She felt sick in her stomach.

"You can't just give up!" Akira tried to console her. "I mean didn't you said that-"

"I know what I said!" Sadayo snapped at Akira, only to feel ashamed at herself for doing so soon after. "But what am I supposed to do…? There is nothing I would be able to say to defend me working at Victoria's, and if they found out that I was about to transfer to the sister company…"

The realization of her actions all came at once. She put both hands over her mouth, her breathing became faster and more ragged. "Oh god…!"

Panic and desperation set in as the walls rushed closer while the chains on her neck started to choke her. She'd probably make a deal with the devil by this point. 'I can't escape, I can't fight back, so someone…' As those words popped into her mind, Sadayo thought back to all the times Akira had talked to her about the Phantom Thieves. How they fight for those that can't fight back, that they give courage to those that feel like all hope is lost.

"Kurusu-kun…" Sadayo called Akira, the desperation in her voice palpable. "Remember what you said, about the Phantom Thieves? Would they truly help someone as worthless a me?" Sadayo laughed at herself. After complaining so much, after yelling at Akira for always bringing them up to her, here she was, begging for help. "No… of course not. Why would they?"

It didn't take anything special to know that Sadayo was deeply hurting. He wanted so much to believe that Sadayo would had been able to handle this on her own, but at this point, there is nothing she could do, and there is nothing he could do to help her as Akira Kurusu. He'd worked so hard to give her back her will to live, and seeing the Takases trample all over that was the last straw. It was time for Joker to take action.

"I give up… I can't do this anymore…" Sadayo could feel her energy rapidly fading, her eyes looking dead as she stared at the chair in front of her.

"Kawakami, listen to me, because this is very important. I need their names."

"Names? Why would you need that…?" Sadayo response was monotone, clearly having lost any will to keep going. She shook her head, not seeing the point of all of this, but deciding to answer anyway. "The husband is Toshio-san… the wife Hiromi-san… How could I forget those name since I write their checks every week..." She ended with an emotionless chuckle, as if just going through the motion, but as soon as she stopped, the realization of who was asking came to her mind. Life being brought back into her eyes as she turned to Akira in a panic. "Wait, why? What are you thinking? You don't intend to do something, do you?"

"Don't worry about it, okay?" Akira commented, taking note of their names. "I'll make sure that it doesn't become an inconvenience to you."

Alarms were going on Sadayo's head as she rushed towards him in desperation. "But what about you!? What's going to happen to you?" Sadayo knocked on his his chest in frustration. "You were warned already weren't you? If you get caught, doing anything of the sort you'll be… you'll be-!"

She couldn't finish her sentence; the thought of him being taken caused her much more pain than she realized.

"You always do this, you always worry about others, but you don't think about what will happen to you! You did it for that woman in your hometown, you did it for your friends at the risk of getting expelled. But WHY?! Why do you plan risking yourself like that for someone like me…?"

Akira wanted to remind her that he had promised to protect her. That he would be fine, and he wouldn't be taken away. He wanted to comfort her, he wanted to tell her the truth. But he couldn't get the words out his lips. The look in her eyes completely crushed his heart.

Sadayo could feel her eyes tear up, and in her panic she had said too much. She didn't want Akira to see her like this. This isn't what she wanted! She turned away, wanting to make sure that he couldn't see her face. "I'm sorry. I was just so excited to tell you what I had decided… But it all ended up like this…"

She was so happy to tell him, she wanted him to be proud of her, she wanted to hear him praise and congratulate her, but instead all her promises, all her declarations... were for nothing. She had failed to hold her conviction once more, failed another student again, and she had failed him — that was the final blow.

"Just forget that this ever happened, please." She wanted to look at him, but the thought of his disappointment was too much, and so she averted her eyes to the person she saw at the end of the light, unable to join him on the other side. "You should go, class is about to start."

Akira stretched out his hand to reach her.

"Please! Don't…" Sadayo chastised him, forcing herself to reject his sympathy and comfort. "Just… leave me alone…"

Akira was distraught by her reaction, but simply nodded as he walked towards the door. stopping as Sadayo let another defeated chuckle.

"It's funny… if you think about it, I'm right back where i started… I guess this is where I belong. I'll never be able to change. But thank you, for humoring someone as worthless as me."

Akira didn't have the heart to correct her. By this point his words wouldn't be able to reach her. Giving only a nod he left the room and closed the door behind him.

At the sound of the door finally hitting the frame, Sadayo finally felt more than alone in the room. She tried so hard to keep herself from breaking in front of Akira, but now she was alone it all came spilling out. Her body fell to the floor, coiling up into herself as she embraced herself tightly.

She had thought that she had no other option, that this was the only way. She had been doing so for so long that she had come to accept it and became numb to it. But this time it was different. She realized that there was a different path that she could've chosen, that she could move on. After so many years she had regain her drive to teach and remembered her promise to Taiki. But it was too late. If she had realized it sooner she could had learned and become a great teacher, but she now realizes that the light she had thought so much to be at the end of a tunnel, was actually the light from up above the hole that she had dug herself in, and one she couldn't reach anymore. In failing to learn from her mistake and letting her be played with by the Takases, she ended up digging her own grave, and if she ever would attempt to climb up the muddied walls around her to escaping, then all the Takase would have to do is bury her alive under the weight of her mistakes. There was no escaping, and no one could save her. She knew, but no matter what, she just couldn't stop herself from reaching up, begging for anyone to help her. It was all she could do before she can get dragged deeper into despair.

"Please," Sadayo managed to force out, as streams of tears ran down her cheeks. Sobbing uncontrollably as she covered her mouth to muffle the cries of anguish that she couldn't contain."Someone… anyone… help me… save me… Akira."

"Ms. Kawakami…" Morgana peeked from the gap in the door, feeling heartbroken to see her in this state.

Akira never fully left, standing by the doors entrance as took out his phone and started up the chat app to message the rest of the group. "Mona, I need you to do me a favor. I'll make sure to pay you back for—"

"No need, I'm in this too. What do you need, Joker?!" Morgana was primed and ready to act. which caused Akira to smile at his enthusiasm.

"Thanks, I need you to follow the those assholes, find out where they live. I'm going to go make some preparations."

"Got it, I'll meet with you after classes end at the school entrance." Morgan quickly leaped out of his bag, sprinting off to catch up to his targets.

The pieces where coming into place, and Akira didn't intend to let this sit around. He sent a message to the group.

[A]: Emergency meeting after class end. I'll meet you all at the hideout.

Akira turned to look at the room once more, taking a good look at how much pain the two had caused her, heeding Arsene's words for when he first awakened.

"Hate the enemy in front of you, use your hate to gain power… Then release it!"

He quietly closed the door behind him, making sure that she hadn't noticed him eavesdrop. He stalked the school halls with a palpable aura of rage, his eyes glowing a golden yellow and his mouth stretched to a grin that would stop a Shadow cold in its tracks. He paid no mind to anyone that saw him fleeing his path in fear.

"As you wish… my mistress."


As you can see this chapter, despite being so long ended here at all places. But I'm sure you know what that means, Next up we will meet up with the rest of the Phantoms and Akira will be taking the fight to Mementos. I hope you're all excited for the next chapter.

I would like to note that certain aspect of this chapter were inspired by a rendition done by MitarashiXP from Deviantart.

And as always thanks goes to SomebodyLost for their continual help.