Opening

My phone, imprinted with the Star of Life, traces the path ahead of me with its light. The moonlight follows as I illuminate my shadow, the wooden floor, then two doors mounted with mirrors. One reflects a boy, the other a girl; one reflects myself, the other someone strangely familiar; all hold Stars of Life in our right hands.

I reach out to the girl.

I open the door with my left hand just a crack, and behold a golden eye staring at me. I slam the door shut, but it shoves me back. The golden eye becomes a pair belonging to a hissing serpent, that emerges from behind the door and lunges at me. I raise my right forearm and the serpent bites; with my left hand I curl its tail over its head. The serpent releases its bite and drops to the floor, then slithers past me through the way I came.

I turn around and follow it into the moonlight.

I am eventually blinded before coming to wearing a white lab coat; the bite has disappeared from my right arm. In front of me a sleeping boy lies in bed attached to medical equipment under artificial lighting. I walk forward by his side to catch his turning head, then tuck away his bangs before the lights go out. I hear hissing; my eyes and phone dart left and right. But the serpent lunges at the boy's neck as I turn away, and I turn back to find the waking boy spit blood into his breathing mask. Once the serpent releases the boy's neck and slithers off,

I rip off his breathing mask and staunch his neck with the bedsheet.

The boy takes my hand and locks eyes with mine. He mouths something then stays agape, eyes rolling back and neck rearing to spray blood from the bite. Demonic wailing and misty blood rise into a spout of dark flame. The resulting vortex of energy coalesces into a floating skeletal structure. Two bony wings unfold, revealing a cage holding the body of a black humanoid. Thrusting its head at me it roars, showing an enlarged bird skull with blazing eyes; I shield my face with my right hand.

Per...so...na.

The Star of Life bursts into blue flames and disappears. A glowing woman dressed in a blue tunic, holding a snake-wound rod against her chest, rises above me. Wind begins to blow, tossing loose items onto the reflective floors and walls. The centurion roars again, its body distorting and retreating.

I reach out to the woman.

Cherry blossom petals stream past my vision; I see nothing else until a hand grabs mine. I come to in a dark hallway, held by a MASKED BOY carrying a backpack and wielding a kama.

MASKED BOY: Come on! We have to join the others!

He tugs my hand, forcing me to run with him. Hallway after hallway, our footsteps pound in rhythm to echoed screams. We halt before the exit outside, an angel brandishing a flaming sword in front of it. The MASKED BOY opens his backpack, pulls out a yin-yang mask, and hands it to me.

MASKED BOY: Here, your mask!

I put on my mask and engage the angel in battle.

Persona!

I rip off my mask, which ignites into blue flames and summons the glowing woman. The MASKED BOY rips off his mask to summon an albino horse with frosted mane. Together we attack the angel, defeating and dissolving it into dark energy. Our masks reformed onto our faces, the MASKED BOY turns to me.

MASKED BOY: Let's avoid any more fights until we join the others. Hurry!

I run with him through the exit outside.

The street lights are off but the moonlight proves bright enough. We spot another angel patrolling down the street, and duck behind the corner of a house.

MASKED BOY: You can still use your Illusion trick right? I'll see if there's a way around.

He scurries away and returns to affirm as much. I grasp my mask and slowly peel it off; melting and smoking instead of igniting. The angel flies closer to investigate the glowing woman coalescing.

I run with the masked boy around the block.

I hear the sounds of battle ahead, and come across a square with deserted shops. A MASKED GIRL twirls her naginata then slashes an angel dead, but another takes its place. She backs away before glancing towards the MASKED BOY and I. The angel swings its sword at her, but she plants her naginata and flips off it to dodge. In one fluid motion she passes a backpack on the ground and tosses something towards me.

MASKED GIRL: TSURUSA-senpai, catch!

I catch the Star of Life.

MASKED BOY: TSURUSA-san, time for our comeback.

We array ourselves in battle positions surrounding the angel and summon our Personas. The MASKED GIRL rips off her mask to summon a warrior woman wielding a harpoon, protruding elephant tusks from the chest, and hovering on double-edged swords. Once we defeat the angel and reform our masks, the MASKED BOY turns to me.

MASKED BOY: Let's catch up with-is that the hospital on fire!?

I look at the hospital we just escaped.

A pillar of flame erupts from within; the MASKED GIRL takes a single glance then dives for me.

MASKED GIRL: Get down!

The hospital explodes into a mushroom cloud, shock waves char the surroundings, and roaring & wailing fill the air. I struggle to my feet and behold a crater, overflowing with ribbons of dark energy.

Father! Mother!

A booming voice and battle cries resonate from the hills opposite. They herald an ethereal force of foot soldiers and mounted samurai advancing past me. Angels and demons swarm out of the crater to clash with the encroaching army.

MASKED BOY: It's alright TSURUSA-san, catch up with AKUMA-kun before us.

MASKED GIRL: You shouldn't keep him waiting, TSURUSA-senpai?

The MASKED GIRL shakes my stunned shoulders. She & the MASKED BOY then embrace me, and I slump into their shoulders, eyes brimming with tears.

MASKED BOY: I don't understand any of this either, but we'll get through it, I promised you that.

MASKED GIRL: You're strong TSURUSA, stronger than both of us. We'll catch up later, now go!

They comfort and reassure me, before finally pushing me onward. I turn around and run, only glancing back to witness a beam of light from the heavens strike the crater.

They release me, the MASKED GIRL gently pushing me away. I turn around and run, the tears finally bursting from my eyes.

I glance back to witness a beam from heaven strike the crater.

I run until the silhouette of AKUMA, the boy from the bed, is on the horizon. My vision fades, and the last thing I see before blacking out is a blue butterfly fluttering past.

Daytime 1

TSURUSA woke up in her bedroom: the lavender curtains were drawn against the outside, and her phone rested on a nightstand. She turned to groggily stare at the curtains, then suddenly the dream flashed before her, the scene of the serpent. She reflexively pulled the bedsheets over her head and laid quivering.

TSURUSA: Again...Father...Mother…!

TSURUSA threw back the bedsheets in a rush, and scrambled out of bed into her clothes before hurrying out the door. She ran to the hospital, and burst through the front entrance exhausted. Then she staggered towards the reception desk, and slammed her hands down.

TSURUSA: Where are my parents? I need to see them, please!

She nearly knelt her head to the desk in desperation; the startled receptionist stood up.

RECEPTIONIST: Please calm down, I'll get their nurse to see you.

She left and returned with NASU, her parents' nurse.

NASU: Calm down, and come inside.

She opened a door next to the reception desk, and led TSURUSA into the outpatient department. After choosing an examination room and closing its door behind them, NASU turned to hold TSURUSA'S chin.

NASU: Your mother's figure...but your father's eyes.

TSURUSA brushed away NASU'S hand.

TSURUSA: I need to see my parents, now!

NASU: They can't see you now, not with the mess you made yesterday.

TSURUSA: Can I at least see my father?

NASU: Don't you see him enough at home, or has he been too busy for you?

TSURUSA: What do you mean?

NASU: Your father, until recently, has just been so excited for work. Why else would he eat supper without you?

TSURUSA: You…!

NASU: I didn't say anything about myself. Now if only your mother had been working then...

TSURUSA: My mother...said she'll give me a job here. Then you can stay away from my parents.

NASU: Really, a job. You can't replace mine, and I'll likely be supervising so you won't make a mess again. That sounds fun, I'm looking forward to you joining us.

I am thou, thou art I...

Thou hast been bound to I...

It shalt be a mutual exchange of opportunities for both of us to grow...

With my proposal of the Saver Persona, thou art closer to the future you believe in…

NASU: Anything else you'd like to confide in me?

TSURUSA'S hands were balled into fists, but she maintained her cool under simmering hurt and humiliation.

She turned around and left the examination room, wiping tears from her eyes.

Exiting the hospital TSURUSA heard someone greet her, but was too distraught to immediately realize it was AKUMA standing in front.

AKUMA: It's been a while...did something happen yesterday?

TSURUSA lowered her gaze, her face hidden in shadow.

AKUMA: Mind if I walk you to the beach today?

TSURUSA hesitated but shook her head.

TSURUSA: I need to stay home for once...please.

Before she could move to pass AKUMA, he grabbed her hand, her surprised expression meeting his confident grin.

AKUMA: Or we could run.

TSURUSA: What are you-

She could only stumble and protest as AKUMA started running with her in tow.

AKUMA: Run-just run!

They ran to the village square, the shops filled with people coming to and fro, and to the open air market with hawkish farmers & disgruntled housewives. They weaved through foot traffic down the main road, taking a turn towards the west end. TSURUSA started to lag behind, so AKUMA slowed down to continue at their leisure.

TSURUSA smelled the salty sea breeze and felt rejuvenated.

She reached a bluff overlooking the coastline, and sat down to rest with AKUMA. They quietly observed the sun and waves shift over the day.

Afternoon 1

AKUMA: Once summer break hits, the beach is the hangout spot for Mutsumi youth. Isn't it the same fun for the rest of the world? I'm gonna visit all the beaches someday...anyways. There haven't been many newcomers who dared join us…and I admit you'd look great in a swimsuit-

TSURUSA rose to her feet, crossed her arms over her chest, then stared directly down at him dead serious.

TSURUSA: I didn't agree to be brought here, please let me leave.

Her bitter tone startled AKUMA, who stood up as well, and met her eye to eye with a frown. He looked down at his hand, then made a fist.

AKUMA: Fine, I'm sorry I dragged you all the way here.

He started walking away, his face hidden in shadow. TSURUSA'S expression became resolute, as she called after AKUMA.

TSURUSA: You're weird you know, even if you're my friend!

AKUMA raised his head and looked back incredulously.

AKUMA: What did you just say?

TSURUSA: You're so weird, how can you make me forget feeling sad?

She strode in front of AKUMA and put on a brave smile. He abruptly stopped to gape before recollecting himself.

AKUMA: ...Me, weird? T-That's a first...

He played off his flustered behavior by shoving his hands into pockets and pretending to look sideways. TSURUSA tapped his shoulder then nodded, and with AKUMA grinning back they started walking to the village side by side.

Evening 1

TSURUSA was sitting and eating instant ramen at the chabudai in her house's living-dining room, when her father opened the hall door. She stiffened as he hesitated, then started to speak.

TSURUSA'S FATHER: ...Get up early tomorrow, we're going to your new high school to enroll.

TSURUSA nodded but focused on eating.

Morning 2

TSURUSA and her father boarded a bus at the southern border of Mutsumi Village. They arrived at the Semaimizumi bus station and crossed the busy intersection of cars & pedestrians racing back and forth.

TSURUSA smelled the blooming cherry blossoms.

The high school was three stories tall and the cherry blossoms bloomed by the main entrance. Upon entering the premises, TSURUSA and her father were admitted into the principal's office. The principal had TSURUSA'S father finish paperwork, while the teacher oriented TSURUSA as her homeroom teacher and gave her ordered school supplies. Finally both parties take their leave.

Afternoon 2

TSURUSA exited her house, needing to shop for groceries. She pulled out her phone and called AKUMA to help her with the open air market.

They walked to the village square.

He explained how to budget and apportion for the availability of product, and they spent the afternoon interacting with farmers selling produce and more at their market stands. TSURUSA finally bought enough groceries for one week.

Nighttime 2

TSURUSA was about to turn off the light when her phone rang. She answered her father on the other end.

TSURUSA'S FATHER: We've been invited by our sponsors, the TAIYO family. Be ready by the time I return home tomorrow.

TSURUSA hung up then went to turn off the light, before halfheartedly falling into bed.

Daytime 3

TSURUSA'S FATHER rang the doorbell at the front door of an estate. It oddly stood out among the other houses as a blend of Eastern and Western architecture. MR. TAIYO opened the door and welcomed his guests.

TSURUSA walked with her father inside the estate.

She politely admired the hanging calligraphy and paintings in the reception hall, as they followed MR. TAIYO into the living room through fusuma doors. Around a large chabudai they sat to exchange pleasantries.

TSURUSA: Excuse me, but I don't really understand why I've been invited.

Her father gave her a stern look.

TSURUSA'S FATHER: TSURUSA, TAIYO-sama owns the house we live in, as well as the hospital.

MR. TAIYO smiled.

MR. TAIYO: No slight taken. Rather, it's my daughter's invitation. You appear to be around her age. Ah, I hear her coming.

TSURUSA heard pounding footsteps outside come closer, then a girl burst into the living room.

MR. TAIYO: This is my daughter, TAIYO. TAIYO, this is Dr. TSURUSA and his daughter, TSURUSA-san.

TAIYO: Sorry I'm late, it's nice to meet you Dr. TSURUSA. TSURUSA-san, right? Please come with me!

She bowed on the threshold and sidestepped for TSURUSA to follow suit. After closing the fusuma door TAIYO enthusiastically beckoned TSURUSA to follow.

TSURUSA exited TAIYO'S estate.

They began walking around its tree-lined driveway and passed a public park between its two separate compounds.

TAIYO: Do you feel bored living here? Compared to Tokyo, I mean.

TSURUSA: I've...had some interesting days. How do you know I'm from Tokyo?

TAIYO: Oh, sorry I overheard my father. I just took a trip to Tokyo, but I doubt I did anything interesting to you. Do you mind comparing your time in Tokyo with mine?

TSURUSA nodded.

TSURUSA: To be honest, I miss the shopping districts for their clothes. Did you visit any?

TAIYO: Yeah, I visited just in time for their summer collections.

TSURUSA instantly perked up.

TSURUSA: Ehh, did you buy anything?

TAIYO: Of course I did! Would you like to come over sometime to try them on? You look about my size.

She gave TSURUSA a once-over and smirked.

TSURUSA: Umm thank you...but why did you invite me in the first place? Don't you have friends to invite instead?

TAIYO: Not around here no...I know the KINSHU family's children, but our families in general don't get along very well. And the rest of my friends are in Semaimizumi, so I don't meet up with them very often.

TAIYO looked away sullen.

TSURUSA: Sorry...I know your family sponsored mine to move here so my parents could work at the hospital. Were the KINSHU family involved in any way?

TAIYO: No, the KINSHU manage the southern farmlands, while we run the village. My father's been sponsoring outsiders to move here, in order to grow our businesses and services. But don't get me wrong, I'm not in a superior position to you. Everyone living here is equal in my eyes.

TAIYO looked back smiling. A voice called from across the street to TSURUSA.

She paused to recognize AKUMA cheerily waving at her.

But stopping as he and TAIYO spotted each other, he lowered his arm and frowned. He crossed the street and tersely exchanged greetings with her, then pointed at her while facing TSURUSA.

AKUMA: When did you get to know her?

TAIYO: When did you get to know AKUMA-kohai? Oh no, did he do anything to you?

AKUMA: Hey, I haven't done anything recently, definitely not you TAIYO-senpai. I've just been helping TSURUSA-san around the village since she moved here.

TAIYO: Hmm, is that so? I still wouldn't trust you with a ten foot pole. You'd just steal it to prank some poor elderly.

TAIYO giggled derisively while TSURUSA hid her smirk. AKUMA glowered at them both.

AKUMA: That's some talk out of a future heiress's mouth. Maybe I'll just have to slip your father a note about your behavior, TAIYO-sama.

TAIYO suddenly glared at him. TSURUSA widened her eyes.

TSURUSA: Heiress…?

AKUMA smirked at TAIYO as she sighed reluctantly.

TAIYO: Yeah, I'm inheriting the head of my family, since the males...aren't really willing to.

TAIYO looked away and started walking again, her face hidden in shadow. TSURUSA glared at AKUMA, then discreetly caught up with TAIYO.

TSURUSA: Formalities or not, we're all still in school right? Until we become adults, we're all students of equal status right?

TAIYO looked up in epiphany, but betrayed no other emotion, until turning back to TSURUSA with an honest smile.

TAIYO: Yeah, you're right, sorry. I also overheard you're around my age, are you a third year as well?

TSURUSA nodded and AKUMA caught up to her.

AKUMA: Ehh, TSURUSA-senpai is one year above me?

TAIYO leaned toward him.

TAIYO: "Senpai" sounds disgusting out of your mouth. I barely tolerate it when you call me that.

AKUMA: Yeah well unlike TSURUSA-senpai, no one sane's gonna respect you willingly unless you make them.

They continuously bickered back and forth; TSURUSA only smiled and watched the sunlight filtering through the leaves. They finally walked the full block, and AKUMA left before TSURUSA and TAIYO met their fathers again. TSURUSA'S FATHER bowed and MR. TAIYO offered him a handshake, then their daughters returned to their respective sides. TSURUSA bowed in appreciation, and left with her father.

TSURUSA'S FATHER: I'll stay home tonight.

TSURUSA glanced at his icy expression as they walked home.

TSURUSA: Are you not needed at the hospital?

TSURUSA'S FATHER: I am.

TSURUSA walked past the hospital with a downcast expression.

Morning 4

TSURUSA and TAIYO, dressed in their school uniforms, boarded the bus at the southern village border. They came across AKUMA with a free window seat down the aisle.

AKUMA: TSURUSA-senpai, I reserved this seat for you earlier. Wanna walk to school together?

TAIYO: Sorry, but TSURUSA-san and I already arranged to walk together beforehand.

AKUMA: W-What?

AKUMA'S eyes darted incredulously between TAIYO'S triumphant face and TSURUSA, until a girl behind him put one hand on his shoulder. He stiffened and looked away as if sensing her dirty look. TSURUSA and TAIYO took their seats several rows back as the bus started moving.

TAIYO: Hey, we may not get into the same class. Would you mind if I introduce you to my friends then? They can help you with your first day at school.

TSURUSA: Yes please, and thanks.

TAIYO: Hmm, how about joining us after school too, the more the merrier!

I am thou, thou art I...

Thou hast been bound to I...

It shalt be a mutual exchange of opportunities for both of us to grow...

With my proposal of the Dreamer Persona, thou art closer to the future you believe in…

TSURUSA and TAIYO exchanged phone numbers then chatted on the bus ride.

Once arriving at the bus station and crossing the intersection, they entered their high school and went upstairs. On the third floor, TAIYO checked the notice board by the stairs for class assignments.

TAIYO: TSURUSA...class 3-D. TAIYO...class 3-B. Guess I'm not in your class. Looks like one of my friends is though.

KURABU: Brought a friend home from Tokyo, TAIYO-chan?

GURUPI: Welcome back, TAIYO-chan!

TSURUSA and TAIYO turned around to face the two girls KURABU and GURUPI.

TAIYO: KURABU-chan, GURUPI-chan, great timing! This is TSURUSA, she actually did move from Tokyo to my village.

KURABU: Huh, a city girl choosing to move to your village instead of here in Semaimizumi. Anyways the name's KURABU, hope we get along.

GURUPI: My name's GURUPI, it's very nice to meet you TSURUSA-san.

TSURUSA: It's very nice to meet you too KURABU-san, GURUPI-san.

TAIYO: GURUPI-chan, I checked that you'll be in the same class with TSURUSA. Could you show her the way to class 3-D?

GURUPI: Thank you, and yes I'd be happy to show you there TSURUSA-san.

TSURUSA: I appreciate your help GURUPI-san.

KURABU bounded forward to the notice board and scanned the class assignments.

TAIYO: Sorry, I did check for you KURABU-chan, but I didn't want to disappoint you. You're in class 3-B with me.

KURABU: Don't give me that, we may have to cooperate in class, but I'm still going to compete with your rank.

TAIYO: That's how it works, except I'll still be judo club captain.

They grinned at each other.

GURUPI: Are we going to the same place after school?

KURABU: I wouldn't change it. TSURUSA-san, want to join us?

TSURUSA: Yes thank you, I should have time.

TAIYO: Then see you later girls!

TSURUSA & GURUPI left TAIYO & KURABU and made their way to class 3-D.

Daytime 4

TSURUSA finished eating lunch with GURUPI and got up.

TSURUSA: Umm GURUPI-san, is it okay if I get someone to show me around school?

GURUPI: Ah, well only the class representative can walk outside the classroom during lunchtime. You can try asking him though, SHIKUN-san, the boy sitting closest to the door.

She motioned towards SHIKUN, and TSURUSA walked up to his desk. He was staring blankly at his food until TSURUSA cleared her throat, startling him.

SHIKUN: Y-Yeah, do you need anything?

TSURUSA: Oh sorry...SHIKUN-san, right? My name is TSURUSA, and I just transferred here after my second year. Is there a way for someone to show me around school?

SHIKUN: I can, but…

He glanced down at his food.

SHIKUN: TSURUSA-san, yeah? I believe we've briefly met before, in Mutsumi.

TSURUSA blinked, before narrowing her eyes.

TSURUSA: Oh, I thought you were one of the farmers that day I was with AKUMA-kun. Sorry.

SHIKUN: My home is just south of the village, on a farm I do work occasionally.

He idly picked up some food with his chopsticks and ate.

TSURUSA: ...I live in the south end of the village as well. My parents work at the hospital.

SHIKUN: ...I see.

SHIKUN glanced at his food again, then set down his chopsticks.

SHIKUN: I'm sorry, I shouldn't have let it escalate so far...we shouldn't have brought you into our business either.

TSURUSA sighed.

TSURUSA: It's okay, sorry as well for interfering regardless.

SHIKUN struggled to steady his eyes on TSURUSA.

SHIKUN: ...Let me finish eating first, then allow me to help you settle into your new school.

TSURUSA nodded.

After SHIKUN finished eating, they left class 3-D together and walked around the school's three floors. He showed TSURUSA the student council room on the third floor, the library on the second, the administrative and the nurse's offices on the first. On the second floor, they met AKUMA walking the other way.

AKUMA: Oh TSURUSA-senpai, what brings you here?

TSURUSA: AKUMA-kun, are you really your class representative...

AKUMA: Huh no, what made you think that?

SHIKUN: Umm, if I could ask you to return to your classroom then…

AKUMA walked up to TSURUSA while shoving past SHIKUN.

AKUMA: Whatever, another report wouldn't matter to me. Say TSURUSA-senpai, wanna...go somewhere tomorrow after school? I can't today since I've got to-uh stay after.

TSURUSA crossed her arms over her chest.

TSURUSA: Why would I want to go out with an obvious delinquent?

AKUMA: Because people will get the wrong idea if you go out with a boy your year like "guzuguzu"-senpai here, since you just transferred.

TSURUSA'S face reddened.

TSURUSA: SHIKUN-san's just my class president...tomorrow after school, but I'm choosing the place.

AKUMA briefly glanced at SHIKUN.

AKUMA: Huh, it is him. Anyways, see you tomorrow then!

He walked off waving his hand. TSURUSA sighed before turning to SHIKUN. He stood slumped, his face turned away and hidden in shadow.

TSURUSA: Sorry for bothering you like that…

SHIKUN turned back startled.

SHIKUN: It was nothing...shall we continue?

TSURUSA nodded and they continued walking.

Afternoon 4

After school, TSURUSA and GURUPI exited the school building and walked across to the main entrance. Under a cherry tree, TSURUSA leaned against the trunk and waited with GURUPI for the other girls.

TSURUSA: Umm GURUPI-san, thank you for going out of your way to help me today.

GURUPI: It was no problem, TSURUSA-san. First days of school here must be nothing special compared to Tokyo.

TSURUSA glanced at the sunlight filtering through the blooming flowers.

TSURUSA: Actually...I'd never gone to a school that planted cherry trees before. There were some spots for hanami where I lived in Minato, Tokyo, but I didn't pass by often.

GURUPI; Oh, is that so. I hope you enjoy the pretty blossoms while they last.

A breeze rustled the branches, causing petals to fall; TSURUSA cupped her hands for one to land in her palm.

TSURUSA: I'll see…

Another breeze blew it away; TSURUSA sadly smiled, then was greeted by TAIYO and KURABU. Along with GURUPI they left school and crossed the intersection to a streetcar stop. They boarded one heading west and got off close to their final destination.

TAIYO: KOIBITO'S Cafe, it's the best drip coffee in Semaimizumi! They even have a no smoking section.

KURABU: Oh, I have a different excuse to enjoy being there now.

They entered the establishment, and KOIBITO welcomed them. He caught the eye of TSURUSA and smiled at her.

KOIBITO: Welcome.

TSURUSA slightly blushed and turned away.

The others found a table, and KOIBITO handed out the menus before returning behind the bar.

TAIYO: Oh, is that a new barista?

KURABU: He's the owner's son who just started, now I have a cute excuse to come here alone. Beats that old geezer or staring into space.

TAIYO: Yeah, not bad looking I guess.

KURABU: Huh, what's with you and your high standards?

GURUPI: He's a bit too handsome for me to be honest.

KURABU: You too GURUPI-chan? Jeez. TSURUSA-san, don't you think he's cute at least?

TSURUSA: Uh sure...I mean what?

KURABU: At least the Tokyo girl has sensical standards. Excuse me!

KOIBITO attended to the table of girls.

KURABU: One short Dutch, nonfat with no syrup.

TAIYO: One short house blend, black with separate sugar.

GURUPI: One solo tall mocha, whole cream and sugar please.

TSURUSA fumbled with her menu.

TSURUSA: Umm...one cafe au lait...short...lowfat milk...with no sugar please.

KOIBITO: Understood, please be patient for your orders to arrive shortly.

KOIBITO smiled again at her, then bowed and left with their orders. KURABU leaned in to whisper to TSURUSA.

KURABU: Sorry, I shouldn't have gotten you so excited this early in the year.

She giggled and TSURUSA looked down embarrassed. The orders arrived, and TSURUSA found her cafe au lait with a cherry blossom etched on top.

Afternoon 5

After the second day of school, TSURUSA and AKUMA left school together, walking along the sidewalk. TSURUSA glanced inquisitively left and right between establishments, while AKUMA lazily fell behind with hands in his pockets.

AKUMA: I could recommend a nice date spot, if that's more convenient. There's a cafe in the west end that serves the best drip coffee-

TSURUSA: B-Be quiet, this is my environment, village boy. I'll decide where we're-uh definitely not having a date at.

AKUMA: You're the one who looks like a tourist...and I forgot my stash -uh, you didn't hear that.

He caught up with TSURUSA looking at a cosplay shop. She stared particularly at a mask displayed in the window.

AKUMA: Seriously...well I'm a bit of a fan of shonen manga, but those are the only characters I recognize. How big a fan are you...of manga?

TSURUSA: I wish you were a girl, so you could realize how fun it is to go to these shops just to dress up.

She stuck her tongue out at AKUMA, before proceeding inside the cosplay shop. He shrugged his shoulders and followed TSURUSA. Upon entering the cosplay shop, she walked past aisles one way while AKUMA wandered off another.

TSURUSA: I just have this surreal feeling...

She found the yin-yang mask hanging on a shelf in the mask section.

TSURUSA: This is what dejavu feels like, isn't it…

AKUMA returned, dressed in a mismatching hat, mask, and cape. TSURUSA gave him the okay sign.

TSURUSA: 0 for fashion sense, 5 for effort.

AKUMA mock surrendered and tossed the hat and cape. His voice was slightly muffled by the plague doctor mask.

AKUMA: I like this mask though, check it out.

TSURUSA leaned in to hear him better, and he beckoned her closer. When her face got close enough, AKUMA shifted the mask to the side, to reveal one lecherous eye and a mouth. TSURUSA simply grabbed the mask's beak and shoved it back over his face. She went back to take the yin-yang mask while AKUMA removed his mask and rubbed his nose.

AKUMA: Ow, what was that for?

He was about to toss the plague doctor mask as well, when TSURUSA spoke.

TSURUSA: Do you want me to buy that mask for you?

AKUMA: Umm...why? Do I have to pay you back…

TSURUSA'S face reddened.

TSURUSA: No, since it suits your face well…

AKUMA hid his blush behind the mask.

AKUMA: You have a weird fashion sense too.

TSURUSA: Oh shush.

She bought the two masks and AKUMA replaced the tossed items before leaving the cosplay shop.

AKUMA: My turn to show off, you should check out the park in the center of Semaimizumi. Follow me!

They headed south along the streets and crossed a bridge, until they reached the northern entrance of the Peace Park.

They moved on, down the paths past trees and monuments, and finally sat down by a fountain.

AKUMA: This fountain isn't bad looking, but I've seen crazier looking ones.

TSURUSA: Really, where?

AKUMA reached into his bag and pulled out a travel book.

TSURUSA: Italy, huh…

AKUMA placed the book between him and her, and flipped through the pages as she leaned closer. He pointed at a picture of a fountain.

AKUMA: Trevi Fountain, Rome, Italy. Aren't those sculptures almost out of this world? Rome is the city with the most fountains by the way, they're 49 others like this I haven't seen photos of yet.

TSURUSA: Wow, awesome...is this your hobby? Collecting travel books I mean.

AKUMA: I'm gonna be way more serious, when I finally graduate and travel the world. Count on me coming home with stories to tell of my adventures!

TSURUSA instead smirked.

TSURUSA: How are you going to pay for all those expensive trips? You don't seem to be the model student who can secure a good job after college. What a shame, if you can at least memorize trivial facts about other countries.

AKUMA: No matter, once I get to Rome, I'll be "doing as the Romans do." Rome and romance go together, don't they?

TSURUSA found herself uncomfortably close to him again. She dipped her hand into the fountain, and splashed AKUMA from behind.

AKUMA: Wah, what was that for now?

TSURUSA: Whichever city you travel to, the best part is that there will be water in the fountains!

AKUMA stowed his book away, before cupping his hands and splashing TSURUSA back. They continued back and forth while giggling out loud, until AKUMA sneezed. Now both dripping wet, they started walking back north.

Nighttime 5

As TSURUSA was drifting off to sleep in her bed, a distinct hissing jerked her back to awareness. She folded the pillow against her head in panic, turning away from the sound.

TSURUSA: No no no, please not again...why did it have to be her...why me?

OROCHI: Nonetheless, you tried to save her-shasha. You realize your role now, as the Messiah-shasha.

The serpent slithered out from behind the lavender curtains, wrapped around the curtain rod.

TSURUSA: I don't even believe in God...what happened in the hospital, the magic didn't feel divine, but...evil.

OROCHI: The power you were granted by God is just, no regards are necessary-shasha. You shall need it in the coming days, two weeks and three individuals to be precise-shasha. One of whom you know as the boy, SHIKUN-shasha.

TSURUSA: ...You want me to go through that experience, again and again, and mess up more people's lives?

OROCHI: It is not a matter of provoking your desires, but whether or not they intersect with your will-shasha. Will you have to rashly act in defiance of your desires again, or will they concur with your purpose to save lives as the Messiah-shasha?

TSURUSA angrily threw her pillow at OROCHI, which bounced off the curtain rod leaving no sign of the serpent.

TSURUSA: I didn't want to be chosen for this Messiah nonsense! And I don't want to see someone else I know possibly die, because of my mistakes!

OROCHI suddenly slithered behind TSURUSA, hissing into her ear.

OROCHI: I look forward to you upholding those lofty standards-shasha. Good night, and sweet dreams-shasha.

TSURUSA turned around, but OROCHI was already gone. She collapsed, pulled the bed sheet over her head, and cried herself to sleep.

Morning 6

TSURUSA and TAIYO were sitting on the bus chatting when it stopped along the main road in the southern farmlands. SHIKUN boarded and attempted to pay his fare. He teetered on the edge, then suddenly collapsed back outside. A collective gasp arose from the other passengers as TSURUSA and TAIYO rushed out of their seats after SHIKUN. TSURUSA knelt beside him.

TSURUSA: His breathing is shallow... I'll call the ambulance from the village hospital. TAIYO-san, can you contact his parents?

TAIYO: Ugh, sorry I don't know their cell, and my father said the landlines aren't ready around here…

AKUMA came up behind her.

AKUMA: I know where SHIKUN-senpai lives, I'll run there as fast as I can.

TSURUSA looked back at him dead serious.

TSURUSA: Can you run there and back in five minutes?

AKUMA simply grinned, shoved past TAIYO, and took off through the fields.

DRIVER: Sorry, but I have a schedule to stick to. I'm going to leave you here unless you're boarding again.

TAIYO: Yeah, just a bit longer. TSURUSA-san, should I stay with you until the ambulance arrives?

TSURUSA: I'm fine by myself, go to school and let my homeroom teacher know about SHIKUN-san and my absence please.

TAIYO nodded and boarded the bus again. It left TSURUSA and SHIKUN at the stop, the former calling the hospital then administering CPR. Five minutes later, AKUMA returned and the ambulance arrived. Paramedics bore SHIKUN onto a stretcher into the back, then TSURUSA hitched a ride in the back as well while AKUMA took the passenger seat.

They rode to the hospital.

Outside the emergency room, TSURUSA was sitting and waiting while AKUMA eavesdropped through the doors. She furiously whispered to him.

TSURUSA: Please just sit down!

AKUMA: What I'm not harming anyone!

TSURUSA shushed him with a finger on her lips, but AKUMA rolled his eyes and beckoned her while whispering back.

AKUMA: Don't you wanna hear what's going on?

TSURUSA gritted her teeth, but guiltily rose from the bench and joined him. She heard her mother and NASU'S voice, along with another doctor.

FEMALE DOCTOR: Pausing for pulse check. Get a dose of Megibal ready.

NASU: Right.

Seconds passed.

NASU: Megibal going into IV.

FEMALE DOCTOR: No pulse yet, resuming compressions. Set up a nasogastric tube for charcoal. Also set up to intubate.

NASU: Right.

MALE DOCTOR: Right.

Minutes passed.

FEMALE DOCTOR: Pausing compressions when ready.

NASU: Ready.

MALE DOCTOR: Ready.

Time passed.

NASU: Charcoal going into the tube.

FEMALE DOCTOR: Still no pulse, resuming compressions.

Suddenly, the lights went out. TSURUSA stepped away, quivering.

TSURUSA: Just like last time…

AKUMA looked back at her.

AKUMA: What did happen to you that time…

TSURUSA wasn't listening, and began walking away as if possessed. AKUMA followed her, bewildered. They left the hospital out the main entrance, then wrapped around the building to the side entrance.

AKUMA: Where are you going? What happened to SHIKUN-senpai?

TSURUSA: Barbiturate overdose from what I heard. I'm going around to him.

She almost muttered to herself instead of AKUMA. TSURUSA looked at him glassy-eyed.

TSURUSA: Why are you following me? Did you bring your mask?

AKUMA: I'm following you, because you're acting weird! What mask, the one you bought me? ...Yeah I did.

TSURUSA stepped through the side entrance, but met NASU coming the other way. She narrowed her eyes at TSURUSA.

NASU: What are you doing here? Please leave so I can restart the generator.

TSURUSA: You have to let me into ER to save that boy!

NASU gave her an incredulous look, as AKUMA attempted to hide.

NASU: Like you did that other day? Leave before I report this to your parents.

TSURUSA grabbed NASU by the collar and held her up.

TSURUSA: You know I came in after the procedure was already over, and you saw I didn't touch or harm her in any way. It's just...I had to help her!

Her eyes furiously welled up with tears. NASU expressed nothing in return, but removed TSURUSA'S hands from her scrubs, and growled into her ear.

NASU: If I find you in ER again, you're paying the price.

She walked past TSURUSA and stepped through the side entrance. AKUMA left his hiding spot and stood with TSURUSA as she wiped away her tears.

AKUMA: Umm…

TSURUSA: You can leave now, or come with me.

AKUMA: I didn't really get what you two were talking about...but if you're gonna repeat something-

He hesitantly offered his hand to TSURUSA.

AKUMA: -you have someone else to help you this time.

TSURUSA looked at him, nodded, and took his hand. She tugged AKUMA into a run down the hallway.

They burst into the mist-filled emergency room.

Two doctors were passed out around the bed where SHIKUN lay, with mist pouring out of his mouth. The serpent had been waiting, coiled around the surgical light.

OROCHI: Greetings once more, TSURUSA-shasha. I see you have brought a friend-shasha.

TSURUSA: I brought new masks as well...I don't want to make another mistake.

OROCHI: Of course not-shasha. Put on your masks and have your friend lift the boy on the bed-shasha.

TSURUSA looked at AKUMA shaking in fear. She pulled the yin-yang mask out of her bag and put it on.

TSURUSA: Hide your fear behind the mask, AKUMA-kun.

AKUMA looked at her mask, and pulled the plague doctor mask out of his bag. He put it on, and strode forward to lift SHIKUN off the bed. SHIKUN'S jaw slackened into the scream of a dying child. All the mist in the room rapidly coalesced into the form of an anthropomorphized flower looking like SHIKUN.

DEMON: P-Please let me die, I can't live any longer...

OROCHI: Do not confuse the demon with the boy-shasha. It merely possesses his body and consciousness-shasha. Now you must exorcise him of it-shasha.