Evening 1
As TSURUSA passed through the town square, she heard the laughter of kids from inside one of the shops. She peered through the doorway and saw table occupants playing board games.
TSURUSA entered the shop, greeted curiously and enthusiastically by some kids and the shop owner.
She sat down at one of the tables to play a board game with a group of kids. After they got tired the game was wrapped up and TSURUSA exited the board game shop to go back home.
Afternoon 2
TSURUSA decided to save money from her allowance this week, buying pre packaged fast food instead of fresh groceries. She entered the nearest convenience store she could find in the city after school.
TSURUSA picked up enough food for one week, as well as leaflets with part time job opportunities and a cram school advertisement.
At the checkout counter, a miniature Brazilian flag stood out amongst the cluttered surface, and a television mounted on the wall droned on in Portuguese to the listening cashier. TSURUSA paid for her items then exited the store.
Evening 3
Walking home from the bus stop, TSURUSA heard her mobile phone ringing from within her bag. She pulled it out, read the number she recognized as the village hospital's, and answered the call.
TSURUSA: DR. TSURUSA'S daughter speaking. Did something happen?
NASU: Relax, just your boss saying hello.
TSURUSA halted at the intersection between the hospital and her house, quietly groaning. She glared in the direction of the former.
TSURUSA: Is there something you need me to do? Why not on Friday?
NASU: I actually have work for you to do this evening. Just a quick errand, no time to fool with you after. Come to the reception desk, and the receptionist will give you the details.
TSURUSA sighed then ended the call. She entered the hospital and strode up to the receptionist, who handed her a basket holding fruit and a sealed bag.
RECEPTIONIST: Take this to the KYOUKOU residence in the east end. Announce yourself and ask if a hospital representative is needed inside. Call the reception desk if so. That is all.
TSURUSA reaffirmed the instructions then left the hospital for the east end of the village. She arrived at an aged house with "KYOUKOU" etched onto a wooden placard in front. Letting herself in through the gate into the front yard, she walked to the front door, knocked, and announced herself.
TSURUSA: KYOUKOU-san? I'm from the village hospital.
A moment later, an elderly man with a slight scowl opened the door.
KYOUKOU: Who are you?
TSURUSA: Um, my name is TSURUSA, the daughter of doctors who just moved to Mutsumi. I have a delivery from the hospital for you.
KYOUKOU'S eyes flickered, and his expression softened a bit.
KYOUKOU: I see, it's fortunate coincidence that the daughter of DR. TSURUSA is here. How is your father doing?
TSURUSA: He must be busy with other work, excuse him. Do you need assistance within your home today sir?
KYOUKOU'S face darkened.
KYOUKOU: No thank you, I'll just receive this delivery. Give my regards to your father-
Behind KYOUKOU, an elderly woman totters towards and grasps his shoulder, surprising him. She peers at TSURUSA.
MRS. KYOUKOU: Daughter, is that you? Why are you late coming home again? Dear, why aren't you scolding her?
KYOUKOU froze, while TSURUSA widened her eyes in confusion, then dimmed them in realization. She slightly bowed at the shame of witnessing this.
TSURUSA: I should take my leave-
MRS. KYOUKOU: Nonsense, and run back to the city? Dear, we must admonish her for this poor decision making!
KYOUKOU: ...Please, come in.
TSURUSA hesitated, but resigned to step over the threshold, and take off her shoes to join the elderly couple in their house. MRS. KYOUKOU attempted to totter towards the kitchen, but KYOUKOU guided her down the hallway instead, beckoning TSURUSA to follow with a tilt of his head. They entered a bedroom, where MRS. KYOUKOU was laid down on the bed.
MRS. KYOUKOU: I was only going to fix our ungrateful girl a simple meal. Better than the junk they sell in the city I bet. Every grain of rice I cook is grown in this village after all, meanwhile I hear all that Western food is getting more expensive the more city folks get used to it.
KYOUKOU: Yes, yes, I will deal with...our daughter myself. Please, relax and finish your meal.
He took the basket away from TSURUSA, and opened the sealed bag. Pulling out medication, he opened it and shook out a pill from the bottle, placing it on a dish alongside a tray of food. He lifted the tray from the bed stand and placed it straddling MRS. KYOUKOU'S legs.
MRS. KYOUKOU: ...Who are you again? Why should I eat this, I cook perfectly fine myself!
Her face soured at the sight of her meal, but she reluctantly began to eat. KYOUKOU assisted her when she fumbled, and eventually everything was eaten. He picked up the tray, motioned for TSURUSA to follow him again, then exited the bedroom. He turned from the hallway into the kitchen, then back out returning to the entrance hall empty handed. KYOUKOU bowed his head towards TSURUSA.
KYOUKOU: My sincerest apologies for having you endure that.
TSURUSA: It's okay, I suppose that counts as a checkup by the hospital.
An awkward silence ensued, then KYOUKOU cleared his throat.
KYOUKOU: Truthfully, my wife did not have as...welcoming of responses to your father when he would visit. I wonder if this is a point of concern.
TSURUSA: I could ask him that personally. This is my first time servicing a household, as part of my job at the hospital...but I could continue, if you and your wife don't mind.
KYOUKOU: That...would not be a bad idea. TSURUSA-chan, is it? I will consider your proposal, and call your father to discuss with him as well.
He nodded, his expression soft again.
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 Hierarch Persona, thou art closer to the future you believe in…
TSURUSA bid farewell to KYOUKOU, and departed from his house back to her own home.
Afternoon 4
TAIYO had invited TSURUSA over to her home, and inside her bedroom she showed TSURUSA her collection of clothes. They spent time trying on some clothes.
TSURUSA: Why do you have two sizes for everything?
TAIYO: It has to do with judo actually. You see, I used to try and maintain weight for it, so the smaller sized clothes fit me as a bonus. But...then I let myself go a bit, heh...this year's my final one for club though, so I'm losing weight to make tournaments in my best shape.
She put on a smaller sized shirt which exposed her belly, and stuck out her tongue.
TAIYO: I just need a little more work.
TSURUSA put on the larger size shirt, which sagged across her body, causing TAIYO to laugh. She took off her own shirt and offered it to TSURUSA.
TSURUSA: Eh, this doesn't look good on me anyways. It's a nice foreign brand though, so you must have seen something special wearing it yourself.
TAIYO: Not really, I like to wear what fits my mood and dress for the occasion. Wearing these shirts in Mutsumi is a little out there, but then you should check out some of my other outfits.
She strode into her walk-in closet, and winked back as she closed the doors. A while later, TAIYO opened the doors wearing a hip hop inspired outfit.
TAIYO: Cool isn't it? Guess where I like wearing this around?
TSURUSA: Very cool, all you need is to get your hair bleached, and you'll look like the B-Gyaru I used to see around Tokyo! Of course you wear that around the city.
TAIYO: Actually...the one time I did, I kept getting hit on by annoying guys. I wear this on countryside road trips instead.
TSURUSA: Ah...I think I have similar clothes back home, so if you want we could pair up and walk around the city one day.
TAIYO: Oh-uh, wow thanks. I'll look forward to that! Okay, next outfit!
She closed the closet doors again, then a while later opened them wearing embroidered layered clothes.
TSURUSA: Oh, you look like one of those mori kei girls! I'm so jealous too, I was going to buy something like your outfit once summer sales began. Um, do you wear that in the countryside too?
TAIYO: Uh-yeah, I mean the last time I wore this around the city it drew too many stares as well...but on the other hand, the elderly seem to like me wearing this. It helps when I have to visit homes around the village.
TSURUSA giggled.
TSURUSA: You look like a natural grownup in that outfit, maybe some grandmothers want to copy your style.
TAIYO: Right, anyways I have one more outfit to show you...
She closed the closet doors one more time, then a while later opened them and stepped out. TAIYO was wearing a tight dress and shawl draped over her shoulders. She clutched the shawl over her chest while blushing.
TAIYO: W-Well, how's this?
TSURUSA: It's really, really cute. Is that for formal events?
TAIYO: A-Actually, I never wore this before, I thought it looked way too mature for me when I was younger. This is meant for after graduation, but you get to see it just for today.
Suddenly, the door to TAIYO'S room slid open, and a young boy stood outside the doorway. TAIYO turned towards him and walked over to pat his shoulder.
TAIYO: TSUKI, remember I told you to knock before you enter my room?
TSUKI: I did.
TAIYO: Oh sorry, I must've not heard since I was talking with my friend. Wave and say hi to TSURUSA-chan.
TSURUSA waved at TSUKI the boy, who waved back but then changed his hand gesture into a pointing finger.
TSUKI: Hi, bad colored shirt, clashes with pants.
Embarrassed, TSURUSA sheepishly laughed. TAIYO gently folded TSUKI'S hand and led him back outside.
TAIYO: You shouldn't point at people, remember TSUKI. Let's take you to your mom.
She slid her room's door shut behind them, and TSURUSA heard their footsteps fade away. Minutes later, she heard TAIYO come back to slide open the door and reenter.
TAIYO: Sorry about that.
TSURUSA: It's alright, your little brother?
TAIYO: No, just a cousin. Anyways, I think that's enough clothes to show off for today. Want to have snacks and tea in the dining room?
TSURUSA: Sure, by the way...do you need help taking off your dress? I noticed the zipper wasn't pulled all the way.
TAIYO blushed and darted into the closet.
TAIYO: I-I'm fine, let me take care of this myself. You can wait for me in the dining room.
TSURUSA: Hm, are you sure? You shouldn't let a dress get wrinkled before you get to wear it outside. Let me hold it up.
TAIYO: ...Fine, guess you're right.
TSURUSA stepped into the closet behind TAIYO and held up her dress while she took it off.
TSURUSA: Well, you let me have a look at a dress you never wore before. Does today count as a special occasion?
TAIYO: Anytime feels special with the right people around.
Nighttime 5
TSURUSA was studying at her bedroom desk when her cell phone suddenly rang. Not recognizing the number, she answered the call anyway.
TSURUSA: Yes, this is TSURUSA.
AKUMA: Hey, it works. I'm outside, wanna talk?
TSURUSA inwardly sighed.
TSURUSA: AKUMA-kun, I'm a little busy studying here, and I go to bed soon after. Can we talk tomorrow?
AKUMA: Aw come on TSURUSA-senpai, just a bit?
TSURUSA: ...Tomorrow.
She ended the call and returned to studying. Seconds later, TSURUSA heard tapping sounds coming from the direction of her bedroom window. She stood up from her chair and walked over to the window, then opened it after hearing another tap. A pebble flew past her head and landed inside, thrown by AKUMA sitting on a branch of the maple tree outside.
TSURUSA: Watch it!
AKUMA: ...What?
TSURUSA groaned.
TSURUSA: You can come in if you want, didn't realize you were outside my house when you called. I hope you know college exam level math.
AKUMA: Nah I'm good. I doubt you wanna have your parents see me as the first boy inside your room, am I right?
He smirked while TSURUSA blushed and plopped herself onto her bed, arms crossed. A lull passed between them.
AKUMA: ...College huh? Where are you thinking?
TSURUSA: Tokyo would be my top choice, but I still need to think about other med schools besides the standard ones.
AKUMA: Moving all the way back to Tokyo? That's pretty far to me, like I'll need college to travel there and farther though.
TSURUSA: Oh? Think your family will pay you to run away from home? I thought you said you wanted to graduate first.
AKUMA: Not from college, at least not yet. Like you said, I'm not a model student, so I probably need one more year after high school to catch up on subjects for college exams. Then I thought, why not take that extra time to travel the world, before I bore myself to death with school again? As for money, I do keep an allowance, as long as I pretend to listen to the plans my family has for me...
TSURUSA: Ah, so you can afford not to think about the important things.
AKUMA: Hey, their expectations of me in college are way off, they know I get bad grades...I wonder why they're still nice to me when I can hate their guts.
TSURUSA: ...If you can still get along with them, you could try asking them to go easier on you.
AKUMA: That's probably not gonna help their reputation, lowering it to my level. Waiting for me to leave might be their best option.
TSURUSA: AKUMA-kun...they are probably waiting for you to do something. Either leaving them like you say, or finally deciding to talk with them, about the future you want. They don't seem to have given up on you, if they're willing to be that patient. Just try talking, if only to lay out everything you told me.
AKUMA bowed his head in thought, muttering.
AKUMA: ...If it's for her sake, I guess.
TSURUSA: Her?
AKUMA raised his head and grinned.
AKUMA: Not you, though you come pretty close. Ah, that was refreshing to get off my chest, TSURUSA-senpai.
TSURUSA: You really had all that to spill, just at the mention of college?
AKUMA: Yep, sorry to disturb your studies. Feel free to return to them.
He hopped off the maple tree. TSURUSA scrambled forward in response and stood at her window, peering down at AKUMA.
TSURUSA: Wait.
AKUMA: Huh?
TSURUSA: ...
AKUMA: You're lonely too?
TSURUSA: ...My window will be open to you. Just call ahead first.
AKUMA smiled back and waved before turning to leave.
Afternoon 6
TAWA was standing in front of the main entrance after school, and stepped up to TSURUSA as she approached.
TAWA: TSURUSA-san, I want to apologize for my rudeness the day we first met.
TSURUSA: Um okay, I accept your apology TAWA-san.
TAWA: Furthermore, if you are free now I would like to invite you to share a meal with me. Since you may have familiarized yourself with the KINSHU and TAIYO families, as a representative of the TAWA family I should introduce you to Mutsumi through our position, and let you know what we can do for you.
TSURUSA: ...Yes, I'm free. Where are you thinking of taking me?
TAWA: Just a small restaurant, my treat. I'm sure you will take it as my recommendation for dining in Semaimizumi after trying it.
TSURUSA: Well...lead the way then.
TAWA escorted TSURUSA across Semaimizumi to the restaurant. Upon entering, they found a table, ordered, and sat waiting.
TAWA: Has anything been insufficient or uncomfortable in Mutsumi?
TSURUSA: Besides a snake appearing in my room and scaring me out of my mind, nothing really.
TAWA: Oh-hm, snakes you say? I do know a pest exterminator, allow me to make a referral for your convenience.
TSURUSA: That won't be necessary, it's not the kind of snake you can deal with directly, I think.
TAWA: Ah-haha, and what kind of snake would that be?
TSURUSA: The kind that slithers into your bed, whispers in your ear, and makes you feel crazy.
TAWA abruptly spat into his glass of water, coughing. TSURUSA'S and his orders arrived later on, and a quiet moment of eating passed between them.
TAWA: So, how is the food?
TSURUSA: Alright, it's similar quality to a restaurant I used to go to in Tokyo.
TAWA: Of course, I would only recommend the finest comparison to what could be found in Osaka and Tokyo. I first got my recommendations from an uncle of mine, who is quite the gourmet, and has tried many restaurants you might have in Tokyo. I'm willing to share more around this city, on other dates perhaps.
TSURUSA: Huh...is that how you see this?
TAWA: As long as you see it that way.
TSURUSA: All I see is a decent meal, if only worth the price, with extra company not matching in taste.
TAWA: ...Ha, tell me then, what kind of company do you prefer?
TSURUSA: Well, if AKUMA-kun and TAIYO-chan reflect their own families, then yours sounds the least interesting to get to know. Seriously, pest control, restaurant critique?
TAWA: That's because my family has more business outside of Mutsumi than inside it. Er, disregarding the KINSHUS and TAIYOS, what about the company you keep at school? If I recall, you were sitting by GURUPI-san at lunch.
TSURUSA: Yes, GURUPI-san has been a good friend to me so far. She also showed me places in this city to eat and hang out at.
TAWA: Do you think you would have ever befriended her if she was not TAIYO-san's friend?
TSURUSA: ...Why ask that question?
TAWA: Knowing her myself, it's a shame that her family background led her to associating with more well-to-do peers...if only to benefit from them.
TSURUSA: What are you talking about? I never heard anything about her tagging along with TAIYO-chan for something like status.
TAWA: I do feel for her coming from a broken family, with just a single parent working all day...but that is to say she inherited no habits of success attractive to the more fortunate like us. All we can do is pity people like her, and guide them with our prosperity without spoiling anyone. Someone as well off from Tokyo as you should understand these feelings.
TSURUSA: ...Now I remember who you remind me of.
TAWA: Oh? You know someone of a similar mind to me?
TSURUSA: Yeah, it came to me after you kept mentioning Tokyo this and Tokyo that. And of course, your "feelings" as well. I got to know a boy a couple of years ago, but he was interested in my friend. He kept saying, "if only she would understand my feelings," and "my feelings aren't into this-"...you know what.
She suddenly stood up and slammed the table with her fists, her seething face hidden in shadow. TAWA jumped in his seat.
TSURUSA: Y-You know what, I've had enough of people like you, using others for your selfish desires, leeching off others' misery. Don't you dare touch, or even talk to GURUPI, or, or...excuse me.
Trembling, TSURUSA strode away before running out of the restaurant. TAWA looked on in shock, then anger as he tightened his own fist.
TAWA: You will understand, TSURUSA, once I rise to the top and clean the trash below. You will not have to kneel, if you realize what I need to be at my side.
Evening 6
TSURUSA was home in the kitchen, after work at the village hospital. She prepared packaged fast food for dinner, then when it was ready carried it out to the dining room. Sitting down at the chabudai, she set her meal down and gave thanks before beginning to eat. A while later, TSURUSA'S FATHER suddenly opened the front door and stepped inside the house.
TSURUSA: Father?
TSURUSA'S FATHER: Hey, forgot to get something, I still have to go to work.
He changed footwear and strode from the hall to his bedroom, then back in a minute. As he changed footwear again, he paused.
TSURUSA'S FATHER: ...Did I ever tell you about how I met your mother?
TSURUSA: ...Sometime in med school, right? Besides that, you never went into details.
TSURUSA'S FATHER: Yes, we sat close to each other in lectures since our first year, and by the second I began to believe it was less coincidence and more fate. So much so that I found myself too distracted looking in her direction instead of paying attention, and I just had to overcome it by approaching her. She rebuffed me at first, but eventually agreed to study together. The rest is what you know from when we lived in Minato, Tokyo for our first hospital residency.
TSURUSA'S FATHER sighed.
TSURUSA'S FATHER: Your mother will never leave you. She's always been inside you, I can tell looking into your eyes. So please, you have no need to change who you are.
TSURUSA: Father...
TSURUSA'S FATHER left the house, leaving her face wet with tears.
TSURUSA: Mother...
Morning 1
TSURUSA shuffled into the teachers' room, eyes bloodshot and gait slumped. Her homeroom teacher stood up from their seat and approached her with some papers.
SENSEI: TSURUSA-san, I'm glad you could come to school despite what happened. I just got a call from your father who explained everything, so you will be excused for the rest of today.
TSURUSA: Yes…
SENSEI: I'm so sorry for your loss, please take the rest of Golden Week to recuperate. There's no need to push yourself for school until you're ready again.
TSURUSA: Yes…
SENSEI: Here are the assignment papers from today, also I don't think you turned in a club membership form. The deadline is today, so please consider which club you want to join, or we will place you in one for your convenience.
Without a pause for thought, TSURUSA wrote on her form that she wanted to join the debate club, and handed it back to her teacher. She took the other papers, bowed, and left the room.
Daytime 2
At lunch, TSURUSA sat alone, eating in the classroom. She did not notice SHIKUN glancing at her from across the room, before approaching.
SHIKUN: Um, hello TSURUSA-san.
TSURUSA looked up in surprise, then rubbed her eyes and forced a smile.
TSURUSA: Oh, hey SHIKUN-san.
SHIKUN: Are you...free to talk to?
TSURUSA: Oh, uh…
She stared off to the side for a few seconds before answering.
TSURUSA: Sorry, now's not a good time for me. Maybe after Golden Week we can find the time to.
SHIKUN: Ah, okay...I hope you'll feel better by then, or I shouldn't be bothering you.
TSURUSA: It's...going to be some time, but I will get better to listen to you. Thanks.
The classroom door opened, and TAIYO stepped inside. She scanned the area until she found TSURUSA, then walked up to her.
TAIYO: Hey, TSURUSA...oh SHIKUN-san, out of the hospital already? Nice to see you back!
SHIKUN: Hi TAIYO-san, how are you doing?
TAIYO: Well...it feels like I'm the odd one out with this mood. Did I stumble onto something private between you two?
SHIKUN: No, not at all, I was just about to head back to my seat.
TSURUSA: Actually...SHIKUN-san, do you think you could let TAIYO-san in on something private?
SHIKUN: Huh-I, private?
He realized TSURUSA meant what he wanted to talk about, and bit his lip in hesitation. TSURUSA looked at TAIYO, who glanced back and forth between the other two before she realized as well and turned her head away from SHIKUN. But then she took a breath, and turned back to him.
TAIYO: SHIKUN-san, I'm the daughter of one of the village heads. If there's anything important a fellow villager wants to talk about, of course I can lend an ear. Just...give me a chance to make up for those years we never really talked.
SHIKUN sighed, and nodded. He motioned for TAIYO to follow him back to his seat. As they were heading back, AKUMA sauntered into the classroom, then made a beeline for TSURUSA.
TSURUSA: Ugh, not you too…
AKUMA: What? Huh, guess I'm sorry for wanting to check in on you, TSURUSA-senpai.
TSURUSA resisted rolling her eyes, instead rubbing them some more.
TSURUSA: Listen, you know SHIKUN-san personally right? He needs someone to be with him right now, more than I do. As long as you just listen and not act rude like you usually are, then you'll be helpful to someone other than me.
AKUMA: Oh...I got you. And I'm not that insensitive, jeez.
TSURUSA: Well, go get'em then.
AKUMA left her desk to meet with SHIKUN and TAIYO. Behind TSURUSA, GURUPI leaned over and tapped her shoulder.
GURUPI: Hmm, you refuse me for lunch but suddenly receive visitors? Growing popular in your village now?
TSURUSA turned around and chuckled, but stopped as her throat caught and turned back. She overhead AKUMA and TAIYO whispering out loud.
AKUMA: Hey, I'm just offering to listen, no need to be so hostile. You gotta stop making me out to be the troublemaker.
TAIYO: I was doing just fine, having a private talk here, until you showed up to throw a wrench in everything.
AKUMA: Well, sorry for barging in. TSURUSA-senpai recommended me for this, but I guess I'll leave if I have to make everything worse.
TAIYO: Ugh, it's true you were there that day too...if it's fine with SHIKUN-san too then.
SHIKUN: It's fine, thanks for joining us.
He let out a wry smile across the room to TSURUSA. Tears started to fall from her eyes.
TSURUSA: It's not like that, I just...have to take care of them, more than as a friend should already. The village has been a special place to me, but I've also been scared to see the cracks form. I-I need to face them and grow stronger though, for both my sake, and theirs.
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 Ending Persona, thou art closer to the future you believe in…
Nighttime 3
In the morning, TSURUSA and her father had left Mutsumi early for the train from Semaimizumi, bound for Tokyo. Her mother had already departed the day before. When they had arrived at her old hometown in the afternoon, relatives picked them up in their car and drove them to a Buddhist temple. A small crowd waited outside on the grounds, all dressed in black. TSURUSA herself wore a black dress and matching shoes, with a face hidden in shadow. The moment she and her father exited the vehicle and began to climb the temple steps, her relatives fell in together as a group, and the rest of the crowd followed behind.
Everyone entered the temple and took a seat in front of the coffin arrangement, flowers surrounding an altar with spirit tablets placed at intervals. TSURUSA had a front row seat, but her eyes stared off into space away from the object of mourning. Once all the attendees were still, a monk approached from the side, knelt in front of the coffin, and started chanting a sutra.
TSURUSA and her family stood up and formed a line. One by one, each picked up incense from an urn, held it to their forehead, then dropped it onto a burner. The time spent individually praying at the altar differed, and TSURUSA kept it brief when her turn arrived. Her expression remained numb as the smell of incense wafted towards her. Unrelated guests lined up next, repeating the same process and bowing to the family members as well. The monk finished their sutra just as the last guest paid their respects.
By the end of the evening, the guests had all left, leaving the family to keep vigil at the temple overnight. Gathered around a table having dinner, TSURUSA idly picked at her food until her aunt broke the silence.
TSURUSA'S AUNT: TSURUSA...how is the village?
TSURUSA: It's okay.
Her uncle set his bowl down with a thump.
TSURUSA'S UNCLE: No way it's as good as Tokyo, seriously…
TSURUSA'S AUNT: ...You will move back here, yes?
TSURUSA: I have school to finish there, so not yet.
TSURUSA'S UNCLE: A school in that hick town? Bah, I knew how this was going to go all along…
TSURUSA'S AUNT: I hope you seriously consider Tokyo, or another respectable city to live in. We can help you get settled in as long as it's not too remote.
TSURUSA: I...still need to think about it.
Her relatives turned to her father next.
TSURUSA'S AUNT: Did you really think it through properly, before moving over there with her?
TSURUSA'S FATHER looked as if he was about to answer, but hung his head instead.
TSURUSA'S UNCLE: Now you have to think about taking responsibility. Res-pon-si-bi-li-ty.
He rapped his knuckle on the table with every syllable, and looked to continue his criticism, but at the head of the table his father cleared his throat, letting silence fall again.
After dinner, TSURUSA'S cousin JOKYOU almost caught up with her, but the former passed up the latter.
JOKYOU: TSURUSA-san...
Afternoon 4
The next day, guests returned to the Buddhist temple for the funeral proper. Service was repeated as was done for the wake prior, then the priest proceeded to lift the cover off the coffin. Flowers from the altar arrangement were handed out to everyone in order to place them beside the deceased, before the coffin was finally closed off and nailed shut. Mourners accompanied the body to the crematorium, where they witnessed the send off into the furnace.
At a nearby hotel, relatives of TSURUSA hosted a banquet at its buffet restaurant, giving thanks to the guests for their time. TSURUSA herself stood against the back wall letting others serve themselves first, blankly looking at her phone or away from prying eyes. JOKYOU eventually approached her, carrying a plate of food and another empty one.
JOKYOU: TSURUSA-san, the buffet line is getting shorter. You should grab something.
TSURUSA took the empty plate from her cousin.
TSURUSA: Thanks...JOKYOU-san…
JOKYOU leaned on the wall next to TSURUSA.
JOKYOU: ...It's been a few years since we last met, hm? You've grown since then.
TSURUSA blinked back tears, before replying in an icy tone.
TSURUSA: You've grown too. I hardly recognized the same cousin who would rarely visit me.
JOKYOU: Well...college kept me out of town for a while. Probably should've been here to send you off though, sorry. How was the move?
TSURUSA: Your parents already asked me that at dinner last night.
JOKYOU: Oh...I apologize for what they said to you and your father. They shouldn't have acted out, but...they were really hurt when your family left Tokyo, and couldn't take care of you all anymore.
TSURUSA sighed.
TSURUSA: It's okay, that's what I expected to hear from an aunt and uncle anyways. We're both only children, so it's not like we know how siblings feel being away from each other.
JOKYOU: TSURUSA-san...but I-
TSURUSA: I'm going to grab a bite now.
She began walking away, but JOKYOU grabbed her hand. TSURUSA recoiled and slipped her hand out of grasp, her eyes turned towards JOKYOU full of resentment, but the latter gazed back pleadingly.
JOKYOU: Remember...when you used to visit my family's house? I always had my room ready for you, so you could be upstairs away from our busy parents. I left the room unused since I moved out, but I can clean it up for the next time you visit the house, and we can chat or play games like before. You liked to show me the flowers you were growing back in your old home, and I grow some in my new apartment, by the window like you used to. I just...want to let you know, nobody is stopping you from seeing me if you drop by Tokyo again, just like old times.
TSURUSA'S eyes softened.
TSURUSA: ...You don't need to be so pushy, jeez.
TSURUSA left to serve herself food, then returned to sit at a table and eat with JOKYOU. They talked some more until all the guests left, and the remaining family ended the banquet at the hotel to go back to the temple. The cremation was finished, and monks presented urns of ashes to each of the relatives' representatives, including TSURUSA'S FATHER. He nodded at her, who stepped up to the slab upon which the skeleton of the deceased lay, taking a pair of large chopsticks.
TSURUSA picked up bones one by one and transferred them into the urn held by her father, until she accidentally picked up the same bone as JOKYOU.
The latter let out a hint of a smile and let go, which TSURUSA returned with a nod.
Afternoon 5
JOKYOU drove TSURUSA, her father and mother back to the train station. It was too early to depart, so JOKYOU treated them to lunch at a nearby restaurant.
TSURUSA'S FATHER: This may be your last chance to have food in Tokyo for the rest of the year. Choose wisely!
JOKYOU: I can pay for you, um, as long as it's not too expensive like Wagyu beef.
TSURUSA: Hmm, I think I want something simple, like what I had at the buffet yesterday.
She placed her order along with the others, and a while later the dishes arrived.
TSURUSA: Seaweed salad, remember we used to buy a lot from the convenience store near our home Father?
Her father nodded and smiled, then she offered everyone to share as more dishes arrived.
TSURUSA: Pickled root salad, it reminds me of OBASAN. Speaking of which, I wish we had more time to pay her a visit.
JOKYOU: Oh, I remember that old lady who was next door to you. She was the one who taught you how to grow flowers, huh?
TSURUSA: Yeah, I think she would teach you as well if you paid her a visit, I could call her to introduce you again. Ah, and this is pickled plum sushi, OBASAN would make this only on special occasions to share with us.
Her father had a piece of sushi, and winced at the taste.
TSURUSA'S FATHER: I could never quite stand the sourness. You enjoy it though, don't you TSURUSA?
TSURUSA popped a piece into her mouth, chewed and swallowed without hesitation, and nodded with satisfaction.
TSURUSA: Here comes the grilled mackerel...it brings back memories of me learning how to first cook for myself.
TSURUSA'S FATHER: TSURUSA…
JOKYOU: Grilled mackerel was one of the first dishes I learned to cook too. My mother knew how to get the crispy skin right without burning it. Wait, didn't I teach you how to cook it?
TSURUSA giggled.
TSURUSA: Yep, you did. You declared me your best student and said there was nothing more for you to teach. I...think you also said you wanted me to cook a full course meal, as a college graduation gift.
JOKYOU: Oh yeah...let me ask for that again, the next time you visit.
TSURUSA: And this is omelette sushi…I'm not sure if it tastes anything similar, but omelettes remind me of Mother getting the time to cook breakfast for me when I was little…
TSURUSA'S MOTHER smiled at her as the rest of the dishes were laid out, and everyone dug in. As the time to depart neared, TSURUSA and the others finished up at the restaurant and made their way to the train station.
TSURUSA'S FATHER: Thank you, JOKYOU-san. This is where we part for now, until next year maybe.
TSURUSA: Um...JOKYOU, do you know where I could find a restroom?
JOKYOU: Huh-um, yeah let me show you where.
TSURUSA'S FATHER: Hurry TSURUSA, the train is going to arrive soon.
JOKYOU led TSURUSA to another part of the station, but the latter suddenly hugged her from behind.
TSURUSA: ...Sorry. Sorry for treating you so coldly the past two days. I couldn't bear my true emotions in front of my father, or he'd just start crying more than me. I put on my brave face, but I ended up pushing away people who still cared about me after so many years passed, like you.
She let go of JOKYOU, who turned around smiling, and stroked TSURUSA'S hair.
JOKYOU: It's okay, TSURUSA...
TSURUSA: Could I...hug you some more?
JOKYOU nodded, and TSURUSA leaned into her bosom, sobbing quietly. Before TSURUSA and her family finally had to go, JOKYOU exchanged phone numbers with her to check in once every month.
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 Priestess Persona, thou art closer to the future you believe in…
TSURUSA arrived back in Semaimizumi, and returned home in the village by nightfall.
Afternoon 6
Today was the first day of debate club, and TSURUSA made her way to the English teacher ROBIN'S classroom for the meeting after school. Inside, she was surprised to see SHIKUN waiting, and also found her CLASSMATE who asked to ditch on the first day of ROBIN'S class, as well as a JUNIOR. ROBIN nodded at her from behind his desk as TSURUSA entered, then she took a seat next to SHIKUN who gave a smile. Finally, TAWA strode through the classroom doors, and noticing TSURUSA he faintly smirked. She clicked her tongue and looked away as he postured in front of everyone.
TAWA: Good afternoon everyone. I hereby announce the beginning of the Semaimizumi High debate club.
No one clapped.
TAWA: As for club positions, we can discuss those near the end of today's meeting, but as the founder of this club I'd like to assume the role of president. Now I'll introduce our purpose and immediate goal through these leaflets.
He handed out leaflets from the Japan Debate Association, with details about the upcoming debate tournament in the summer.
TAWA: I'm signing us up for this tournament held nationally with other high schools. In this type of competition we do not get scrimmages, so all of our preparation has to be ready before then. As for my expectations of you, we may not win our first ever debate, and that's fine, as long as we all do our best in the process. I'd rather begin the legacy of the Semaimizumi High debate club for our juniors to continue, and eventually achieve success.
He nodded at the lone JUNIOR.
TAWA: To be honest, I'm rather disappointed that we only have one junior member. In between meetings I'd like everyone to recruit more younger students if possible. But for now, seniors should set an example for the foundation of this club. Debate teams are pairs of two, and we can send as many teams as we have the members for. Among us four, pair up with whoever you like, and we will practice in those teams until changes are needed.
SHIKUN looked at TSURUSA, but she raised her hand at TAWA instead.
TAWA: Yes TSURUSA-san?
TSURUSA: TAWA-san, isn't it unfair to juniors to leave them out of debates? As seniors this year may be our only opportunity, but next year we'll be leaving the juniors to run the club. Won't they not have the experience to continue it successfully?
TAWA: Juniors will still attend debate tournaments. Also there are many more tasks to cover in a debate club outside of debating itself, like research, writing, and moderation. Juniors can be assigned to do these important tasks, and simply watch their seniors perform as role models on stage, so they can emulate us when it's their time.
The JUNIOR raised her hand next.
TAWA: Yes?
JUNIOR: Sorry if this comes off as being rude, but I was recommended by ROBIN-sensei to join the debate club after my performance in his English class. I'd like to make good use of my time here as soon as possible, regardless of seniority.
Instead of rebutting her, TAWA clapped his hands and smiled.
TAWA: Excellent, this will be the topic of our first practice debate. Should juniors be allowed to prove themselves better than seniors? Just for this debate TSURUSA-san, I'll allow you to partner with JUNIOR. SHIKUN, you will be my partner opposing them.
SHIKUN: Um, okay.
CLASSMATE: What should I do then…?
TAWA ignored him and began writing on the chalkboard.
TAWA: Let's see...topics for debates are written as statements. So, "Juniors should be allowed to prove themselves better than seniors." Then each opposing team takes the affirmative or negative side. Since TSURUSA-san and JUNIOR want to affirm this, SHIKUN and I will take the negative side. CLASSMATE-san, you'll record the points each side makes, so we can review them after the debate. We don't need to declare a winner, unless ROBIN-sensei could give his opinion.
ROBIN gave a thumbs up while working at his desk.
TAWA: Very well, everyone gets time to come up with brief speeches to introduce their sides. When ready, the affirmative side will send one speaker to the front first for delivery, followed by the negative side when it's our turn.
Everyone got together in their pairs and started brainstorming.
JUNIOR: TSURUSA-senpai, I think you should speak first. I'll probably be able to speak later.
TSURUSA: Are you sure? I think you're able to speak more passionately about this topic though.
JUNIOR: It's not that, I think the first speaker they'll send is SHIKUN-senpai. I want my opponent to be TAWA-senpai instead.
TSURUSA: Oh, okay then.
When ready, TSURUSA stepped up to the front of the classroom facing everyone else.
TSURUSA: Good afternoon everyone. On behalf of JUNIOR, I will give my thoughts on why juniors should be allowed to prove themselves better than seniors. Age is a marker of experience, but everyone's experience for specific subjects differs more. What I mean is, age is too general a factor, when someone younger could have learned a skill like debate for longer than someone else who is older but has less experience with debate. It can be too hasty to assume a senior will serve as a superior example for their juniors, and a junior can also be too bold to claim they are more learned or talented. A practice debate like this can draw out who is more skillful than relying on vague measures...that's all I want to say.
Scattered applause arose as she bowed and went back to her seat. Next, SHIKUN stepped forward.
SHIKUN: Um, good afternoon to everyone as well. On behalf of...the seniors, I will give my thoughts on why juniors should not be allowed to prove themselves better than seniors. Seniority is not necessarily a measure of superiority, but an egalitarian concept. Meaning, in a school setting for example, every grade level will get to experience something new and different each year a student passes. If a junior takes the place of a senior for something the latter should be experiencing, then that senior will be missing out in a year they could never come back to. Also as seniors grow closer to society, they would need prerequisite experience sooner than juniors who can just wait for their turn to come. That is all.
Again there was applause as he bowed. Just as SHIKUN started to head back to his seat, TAWA stopped him.
TAWA: Okay, stop right there. TSURUSA-san, go back to the front and stand facing SHIKUN. Now is time for the crossfire. TSURUSA-san, you ask the first question in order to challenge SHIKUN and the negative stance. Then SHIKUN answers, asks his question to challenge, and both of you take turns with more answers and questions. I will stop you again when time is up.
TSURUSA stood back up and walked forward to stand facing SHIKUN, both looking awkwardly at each other. A moment passed before she cleared her throat and began the crossfire.
TSURUSA: SHIKUN-san...have you considered that someone may not use every experience in life to their advantage? As in, some may intend to enjoy the experience in the moment, while others like juniors could be serious enough to want more in order to become more skillful?
SHIKUN: I see...that could be the case.
More awkward silence ensued before he cleared his throat.
SHIKUN: TSURUSA-san...have you considered that different experiences can inform the same skill? For example, in debate is it not just speaking, but knowing facts and stories that in general are more developed by seniority?
TSURUSA: Ah, that could be so, yeah…
By the third pause, TAWA let out an exasperated sigh and clapped his hands.
TAWA: Okay time's up, you can return to your seats. The other speakers that have yet to go will deliver their speeches now, which are JUNIOR and I. In the second round we get to rebut what was previously claimed by each other's side. The affirmative side will start again.
TSURUSA and SHIKUN returned to their seats, before the JUNIOR stepped up.
JUNIOR: Good afternoon, here is why I think juniors should be allowed to prove themselves better than seniors. The concept of seniority is prevalent in our society. Our superiors across business and government, having peaked during the Showa era, still remain influential in their twilight years of Heisei current. Yet our society, the culture and economy that it incorporates, has changed between eras and given rise to new problems. Those in current positions of power may take responsibility, but that does not mean they are capable of solving problems in an era they were not raised in. Seniors already part of society are on the track of retirement from it, not getting closer, unlike TAWA-senpai's claim. Like TSURUSA-senpai said, there are juniors serious enough to gain more experience, in order to show they are worthy of replacing seniors in their positions. We should examine the vigor of candidates to keep learning from experiences, age related or not, with or even rather than the experience they already possess that could come from an outdated era. That's all.
TAWA applauded her as he rose up from his seat, startling the girl as he approached to stand next to her.
TAWA: Bravo, bravo. But allow me to demonstrate a proper debate speech.
He cleared his throat and straightened his back.
TAWA: Resolved, juniors should not be allowed to prove themselves better than seniors. There is a fundamental difference between juniors and seniors in the same society. Seniors are closer in age to the time when their society was first created and developed, if not themselves responsible for doing so. Further dividing eras into different time periods, pre war Showa and post war Showa are two distinct societies for example. Thus, it is natural for our superiors having lived through the peak of one society to enter into its twilight preceding the next, as only the imperial family changes the era. These superiors know the inner workings of the societal system they created, whether those are state secrets or unrecorded deals. Sharing this information is antithetical to concepts like seniority, unless with successors chosen by them. Any other junior who can prove themselves better on the surface still runs the risk of irresponsibility, acting on inner knowledge against societal interests without prior screening. It is futile at best and dangerous at worst to allow juniors to take the places of seniors based on skill alone, if they remain ignorant of the system. Thank you.
Silence followed his speech, until ROBIN lightly applauded it.
CLASSMATE: Uh...so next is another crossfire, right? Hold on, I still need to note some things down…
TAWA: Yes, JUNIOR, ask me your first question when ready.
The JUNIOR moved to make space between herself and TAWA before starting.
JUNIOR: Right...so what are the "inner workings" of our debate club, without getting into aphorisms of society?
TAWA smirked and adjusted his glasses.
TAWA: Well...as president, I will inform members as it becomes necessary, which is to say not all at once. However, you can conduct your own research on debate, and draw similar if not exact conclusions to what I plan for the development of our club.
The JUNIOR clicked her tongue and crossed her arms, while TSURUSA faintly groaned.
TAWA: How would being more serious and skillful replace the closer attachment a creator of the system has?
JUNIOR: Doesn't matter when they'll graduate soon anyways.
TAWA narrowed his eyes.
TAWA: Which is why I'm asking without terms of seniority. My question does not specifically apply to the debate club's circumstances.
JUNIOR: Why assume a system will remain in place when juniors could come in and replace it entirely with their own?
TAWA: Well then, not going to properly answer my question then skip ahead to yours, I see. Replacing the system would leave no relative measure to compare juniors to seniors prior, that's called revolution, not reform. What's wrong with reform dictated by succession, when revolution leads to a new set of problems with lesser known solutions?
JUNIOR: At least with revolution, we could get rid of concepts like seniority that promote pretentious phonies like how you're acting. Then we'd be able to put anyone in the places they truly deserve.
TAWA stared down at her, bristling, while the other students looked on in alarm.
TAWA: You really want to start this fight? This isn't a debate anymore, and I'm going to make you know your place right now. I-
ROBIN clapped his hands as the JUNIOR and senior glared at each other.
ROBIN: That's it-that's all she wrote. Now to review what went wrong while this was still a constructive debate.
He picked up a paper handout with a list of logical fallacies and scanned it while audibly humming. All the students in the classroom turned towards him in confusion and anticipation.
ROBIN: TSURUSA, your first fallacy was non sequitur, "A practice debate like this can draw out who is more skillful than relying on vague measures." Be careful to not make claims just seeking approval, rather than reaching a logical conclusion first. It's tempting to look like the most sensible person in a room, but everyone should remember that your only opponents are the opposing side and your own slip o' the tongue. Your second fallacy was affirming a disjunct, "Some may intend to enjoy the experience in the moment, while others like juniors could be serious enough to want more in order to become more skillful." I don't see why I can't enjoy teaching seriously, though I may be delusional for thinking so.
TSURUSA hung her head as her sweat dropped.
TSURUSA: I understand, ROBIN-sensei. Thank you for pointing out my errors, I'll do better next time.
ROBIN: JUNIOR, I understand you got emotional at the end, so this may not be a true assessment of your abilities. Your fallacy was proving too much, "At least with revolution, we could get rid of concepts like seniority that promote pretentious phonies…" Whew, that's some fire you should reserve for a stand up act by a little lake in Central Park. But even phonies deserve the warrant to prove they could be the product of their environment. Not just being phony for the sake of your argument.
JUNIOR: Yes...thank you ROBIN-sensei.
ROBIN: TAWA...you impressed me with your initial knowledge of debating, enough to become the advisor of your club. But I think you have the most room for improvement. Just a nitpick, but official debate topics will be presented as resolved only for the affirmative side, not negative. So come up with a snazzier introduction that'll really declare your role as devil's advocate on the negative side. Your first fallacy was an argument from ignorance, which was the basis for your entire stance unfortunately. "These superiors know the inner workings of the societal system they created, whether those are state secrets or unrecorded deals," cannot be proven nor disproven without the hidden information, like the existence of God or the supernatural. Though the possibility of hidden information can be claimed...being dumb and playing dumb are two sides of the same coin really. Your second fallacy was a slippery slope, "Revolution leads to a new set of problems with lesser known solutions." If your opponent challenges you to make a valid comparison, then you have to bite. The beauty of debate after all is someone you might find repulsive sharing a new understanding with you.
TAWA nodded, then stared off to the side.
ROBIN: SHIKUN, you were the most well-rounded, good job on your first showing. Just remember to support every claim you make, even in question form, "For example, in debate is it not just speaking, but knowing facts and stories that in general are more developed by seniority?"
SHIKUN: I see, I must be more specific. Thank you for the advice, ROBIN-sensei.
ROBIN: And that about wraps it up. These are handouts with a list of logical fallacies, let me hand them out as references for whenever you review your speeches and practice debates.
He stood up from behind his desk and circled between each student handing them a copy, before returning to his work. TSURUSA, SHIKUN, and their CLASSMATE gathered around to look at the notes taken during the practice debate. TAWA and the JUNIOR meanwhile sat down on opposite sides of the classroom, silently stewing, until a while later the former stood up.
TAWA: Officer elections will be for the next meeting. Study the list of logical fallacies until then.
He headed for the classroom doors. TSURUSA, SHIKUN, and their CLASSMATE shifted gazes from TAWA to the JUNIOR, whose hands covered her face down on the desk. After kicking her legs in the air, she suddenly slapped her cheeks and got up to bow before the other students.
JUNIOR: I'm sorry I let my emotions get the best of me today, it won't happen again the next meeting.
CLASSMATE: It wasn't a big deal, if anything I was impressed by your passion while debating for the most part.
SHIKUN: I can't speak for TAWA, but I appreciated listening to your perspective, being on the opposing side. I think this practice debate was very helpful, both to draw out our potential as debaters and discuss the topic itself. TAWA might have intended for this.
TAWA mumbled to himself as he stopped to listen, before leaving the classroom. TSURUSA leaned towards the JUNIOR and took her hands.
TSURUSA: Believe me, in my experience he doesn't even try to come off as a sensible guy, whether his intentions are good or not.
SHIKUN sheepishly nodded in agreement. The debate club meeting ended shortly afterwards, with him and TSURUSA taking their leave to walk to the Semiamizumi bus station together.
Evening 6
TSURUSA was sitting at the reception desk in the village hospital on her work shift, when NASU and another receptionist appeared through a backdoor.
NASU: Your shift is over, TSURUSA. Come with me so I can debrief you.
TSURUSA stood up and bowed to the other receptionist, then hesitantly followed NASU into an examination room again.
NASU: So, how does it feel to be play-acting at your parents' workplace?
TSURUSA: I was hoping for more physical work than just filing papers, but as long as you're staying out of my way, I can take the trade-off.
A smile crept over NASU'S face, as she sat on the bed and patted a spot next to her.
NASU: I can teach you how to conduct a physical examination, if you'd like.
TSURUSA: ...I'll pass. Can I leave?
NASU: No, because there's something else I wish to discuss. Your father has been talking a lot about you lately.
TSURUSA: Really…?
NASU: He has, every time he sits down on the bed and pats beside him just like this, then reminisces on the times he spent with you. Sometimes we'd go out for drinks, and he'd just prattle on about not cherishing when he could hold you close to him in the past.
Her smile twisted into a snarl.
NASU: It pisses me off, you know. How can you talk about a woman you're already prepared to let go of in front of another? How does it make me look, if he's still emotionally dependent on the past, while I'm living in the present?
She cupped her head in her hands for a moment, before uncovering it with another smile.
NASU: Just kidding! He was probably confused with someone else.
TSURUSA slowly nodded and backed out of the examination room, closing the door on her way out.
