Here's chapter 3, I'm very happy to see that your all reading this, it means a lot to me. And it almost looks like the ones almost most who followed and favorited the old story received my message, so that's another plus.
And now, let the third chapter, begin!
Chapter 3
Hoist the Flag!
April 12th: Tuesday
Time: After School
Weather: Cloudy
As of right now another day of school had just ended for Zach.
To recap on what happened the other day. After he and Max were done hanging out his mother defiantly gave him a scolding for being late on the very first day of school. And of course he couldn't just say: "Mom, me and two other guys I met from earlier were all trapped in a castle and almost died if it wasn't for a walking talking, cat creature." That'd only make her think he was lying despite it being the actual truth, and so ultimately he lied his way out of it. He didn't want to, but that's the price of the gamble he took.
Even before going to bed, and despite playing video games to try and help get his mind off of what had happened, he just couldn't. Getting knocked out, and nearly losing his life, how could you even forget something like that? They're were even two other people to confirm that the castle wasn't a dream or their imagination.
Now, aside from his mother warning him not to be late again, Max was defiantly sick, with a very bad cold. Not the just the kind where it takes a few days to get better, but the kind that don't leave without a fight. But Zach was confidant that his aunt will help him get better sooner or later. He would just have to be patient, and that meant Zach would just have to bring his friends school work each day until he was over it.
" There we go. " Zach said to himself as he stuffed Max's work into his bag while exiting out of his class on the second floor before accidentally bumping into someone. Ironically, that someone was Ren who also seemed to be surprised.
" Oh, my bad. Sorry Ren. "
" It's alright. What are you doing on this floor anyways? "
" My friends sick right now, and until he gets better, I'm in charge of bringing bringing him his school work and turning it in at the end of the day. "
" That's awfully nice of you Zach. " The frizzy haired teen said getting a chuckle from his most recent friend.
" Heh. yeah, I know he'd do the same for me, but hey, that's what are friends are for. " As Ren was gonna continue talking with him something else got their attention.
" Hey there Takamaki. " It was a very familiar voice making them look to see Kamoshida greeting the same girl from yesterday. " You looking for a ride home? Thing's have been dangerous lately with all these accidents. "
" Sorry, I have a photoshoot today. It's for the special summer issue, so I can't afford to miss it... "
" Hey now...Being a model's fine and dandy, but don't work your pretty little self to the bone. You mentioned you weren't feeling well, right? Something about appendicitis? "
" Yes. I keep planning to go the hospital, but I've been too busy...Sorry to worry you... "
" You must be lonely too. I feel bad for keeping your best friend at practice so often. That's why I asked you out in the first place. Oh...and be careful around that transfer student. " Kamoshida said not knowing Ren was right there listening to the whole thing alongside with Zach. " If something were to happen to you... "
" Thank you. " She said cutting him off. " Please excuse me. "As Takamaki left Kamoshida sneered a look at her appearing to be annoyed before going up the next floor.
" Geez, even in reality that guys a creep... " Zach scoffed.
" He is... " Ren agreed and looked around. " We should probably get home. "
" Yeah. "
TAKE YOUR TIME...
The two of them were now making their way out of the school.
" Did you see the look in that guy's eyes? " Zach asked as they exited out of the building.
" Yes. It was really unsettling. " Ren answered. " After seeing that, and the way she acts I'm starting to have my doubts about the rumors. "
" Wh- " As the scared teen was about to say something he noticed Ryuji was by the gate. " You're not gonna like ambush us or something are you? "
" Haha, very funny. " The blonde replied sarcastically. " I wanted to talk to you guys. "
" About what? " Ren inquired.
" About that castle from yesterday. " He answered and began to explain. " I tried tellin' myself it was just a dream...but I couldn't do it. I can't act like nothing happened. It's like Zach said, it's all connected to that bastard Kamoshida. I wanna find out what's up with that place, no matter what. And y'know your both the only people I can rely on for this stuff. So, you in? "
" Sure. What next. " Ren answered quickly without hesitation much to Zach's surprise while Ryuji smiled.
" Ooh...Looks like I talked some sense into you. " He looks to the scarred teen. " What about Zach? "
" Honestly, we shouldn't go back. " Zach answered getting glared at for his answer.
Ren was the first to ask. " Why not? "
" Don't get me wrong guys, I wanna know more about that place too. " Zach sighed. " But, we barely made it out alive the last time we were there. The only reason we even got out was because we had Morganna's help. "
" Speaking of Morganna... " Ren spoke up. " I think he might be able to help us again. "
" If he's still there though. " Zach pointed out.
" Yeah, if. " Ryuji agreed and looked back to Zach. " So are you comin' or not? "
Zach crossed his arms and gained a serious look. " And why should I? I got my family to worry about, I don't want to get killed over some wild goose chase. That's why. " He looks over to Ryuji. " You almost got killed if wasn't for Ren saving our asses. So why do you want to go back there? What's your reason? "
" I... " Ryuji seemed to lose his flames upon what he heard. " I wanna know more about the other prisoners we saw there. "
" And you think there's something
" There has to be. I just know it. " Hearing his answer made Zach nod his head in approval.
" Alright, I'm in. So, what's your game plan? "
" Actually, I was thinking we should retrace our steps from yesterday. In the meantime, you're both walkin' to the station right? Let's all go together. " He said now taking charge a bit. " Lemme know if you find any weird buildings. "
" Uh-huh...Sure. " Zach said sarcastically as they all went down the alleyway and headed straight back to the same spot where they'd had must just yesterday. Ryuji then turned to face them when they stopped walking.
" If a huge castle like that really exists, I'm sure we'll find it in no time. " Ryuji said.
" How couldn't we? It's a European castle right in the middle of Japan. How could people not notice it? " Zach questioned.
" True. But when'd they build something like that though? " The blonde questioned. " We walked that way from here, right? "
" I believe so. " Ren answered looking back down the said alleyway.
" When you put it that way, I'm not so sure anymore. " Ryuji said but immediately shrugged it off. " All right, this way. Lemme know if you notice something. "
" Probably won't have too... " Zach said as he followed the two teens down the alleyway. " We'll see it for ourselves. " The trio went through the same way they went just yesterday, but to their surprise, the castle wasn't there it was only the school.
' Huh? Were at school... " Ryuji said starting to run his fingers through his head in confusion. " There wasn't anything out of place along the way, right? I didn't see no castle either. "
" How could we not miss it? Plus, everything in the alleyway looks just about the same when we went down their yesterday. " Zach noted as he glanced back at the way they had came.
" We must've made a wrong turn somewhere. Let's try again. " Ryuji said getting disheartened looks from Ren who looked like he wanted to go home while Zach appeared to be thinking.
" Again? " Ren asked rubbing the back of his neck.
" Don't worry. I wont mess up this time. " Ryuji said turning to his two accomplices showing he was seeing this to the end. " Let's go. "
" Hold a second. " Zach said getting their attention as he looked at his surroundings. " Wait a minute, wait a minute...guys. I just noticed something. We know that we started right back at the place where we met yesterday... " He said pointing to the alleyway they came from and points to the school. " Then we came right through this alley way for a short cut. What are we missing though? "
" What are you talking about? " Ryuji asked as Zach was deep in thought as he was slowly pacing back and fourth-back and fourth.
" We've had to do something that made the castle appear. I mean, what's the last thing we were doing? "
" I was just walking on ahead, leading you guys and there it was. " Ryuji answered.
" What I remembered most before it appeared, was an uneasy feeling for no reason at all. " Zach paused and looks over to Ren. " Then I turned around and saw you looking at something. What happened? "
" I'm not sure. " Ren answered. " Just only that I thought I've heard something, and it was then we heard Ryuji. Other then that... " He then paused in realization. " Wait a minute...Guy's, check your phones. "
" I already did that. " Ryuji said. " I didn't see anything like it around here. " Suddenly Ryuji's eyes widened in realization almost as if a light bulb lit up in his head. " Huh? Phone...Hey, that reminds me, didn't you have a navigation app thingy on there? "
" Navigation App? " Ren was a bit confused on what he had said cause he never installed any sort of app like that before.
" I dunno if it was or not, but I heard stuff that sounded like one comin' from your phone. " As the blonde said that Zach's gear started running in his head. He now remembered the three of them returning back to their world, at the time, he was just exhausted but now, he remembered exactly what it said.
" Yeah. Yeah it said, that we returned to the real world. " Zach confirmed.
" Let me see your phone for a bit. " Ren brought out his phone and immediately the blonde snatched it out of his hand and started tinkering with it. " What's this eyeball-lookin' thing? "
" Let me see... " Zach peered over Ryuji's shoulder he was in deep shock and surprise for what he saw. It was the same black and red eyeball symbol that appeared onto his phone just yesterday out of the blue. Many thoughts rolled through his mind like, why did Ren have this? What does it mean? And what is it used for? " Ren, where'd you get this thing? "
" I have no idea. " Ren answered sounding a bit unsure.
" What do you mean you have no idea? " The scarred teen inquired repeating the last four words that he was given.
" It's just like I said. When I first came here, it just appeared out of nowhere, and it kept reappearing no matter how many times I've deleted it. "
" Wait what? What a weird app... " Suddenly he began to freak out. " Oh wait...this is it! " He showed us the screen with a small bar that had the word "castle" in it." I knew it-it is a navigation app! There's even your search history! " He said before gaining a big confidant smile. " Oh man, I'm such a genius. "
" Yay... " Zach gave him a mock applause. " You want a prize to go along with that? "
" Oh shuddup! " Ryuji replied and gained a very big and excited smile. " Let's try usin' it. "
Hearing this suddenly sparked uncertainty among the trio. " I dunno about this... " Ren said.
" Yeah, I'm with him, on this one. I don't thin- " The blonde ignored what they were saying and started to tinker with it again.
" Why? All were doin' is startin' an app. "
" That's not the point! " Zach said ready to snatch it out of Ryuji's hands before a voice came from the phone.
" Kamoshida...Shujin Academy...Pervert...Castle...Beginning navigation. "
" There we go! " Ryuji said pumping his arms up in excitement while Zach had enough.
" Dude! Seriously?! You could've just wai- " A sudden weird feeling came over him, causing him to stop. He then Ren looking up at the sky.
" Hey, what are you- " Ryuji finally noticed it as well, and then something began to happen. " Huh!? What the hell!? "
Zach noticed the app was starting to glitch a lot and the area around began to distort. Weird looking red and black distortions began to covered all over the school, within seconds the area had changed. And there stood what they were looking for.
" Look! It's the castle from yesterday! " Ryuji said and dashed forward breaking Zach out of his trance.
" Ryuji wait! " Both he and Ren went after their friend going across the drawbridge and across the courtyard before stopping at the front doors. " Don't run off like that! This place ain't exactly safe! "
" I know, but look. We made it back...That means what happened yesterday was real too. Yeeargh! Those clothes! " Zach looked to Ren and saw what freaked Ryuji out. Ren was now wearing the same clothes he had on before, the same set that appeared along with his Persona, Arsene. " That happened last time too, huh!? What's with that outfit!? "
" Yeah that did appear yesterday. " Zach confirmed as he now knew as well that all that occurred yesterday, indeed happened. However he then grabbed his chin examining what Ren was wearing. " But, now that I get a good look at it, Ren you look freaken cool in that thing. "
" You LIKE IT!? " Ryuji asked sounding worried looking at the scarred teen as if he had lost his mind.
" You jelly? " Ren asked with a smirk putting his hands in his pockets.
" I-I ain't jealous! " Ryuji stuttered making Zach hold back his laughter.
" Oh yeah? Then why'd you stutter? " He asked and continued holding back his laughter.
" Shuddup Zach! Get serious! " Ryuji said and kicked the ground in frustration. " What's going on here!? This makes no effin' sense at all... "
As Zach was gonna make a comment a familiar voice was heard. " Hey! " The trio looked over to see it was Morganna who hopped his way over to them with a stern look on his face.. " Stop making a commotion. "
" Ah... " Ryuji paused as if he saw a ghost. But seeing Morganna now confirmed he was real as well. " You!? "
" The Shadows started acting up, so I came here wondering what it could be... " He sounded a bit worried. " To think you guys would come back to the entrance when you barely managed to escape... "
" What is this place? " Ryuji questioned. " Is it the school? "
" That's right. " Morgana answered showing they were now gonna get some answers on what this place was.
" But it's a castle! "
" This castle is the school. But only to this castle's ruler. "
" The castle's ruler? " Ryuji was a bit confused but Zach knew what he was talking about.
" The castle's ruler...Are you talking about Kamoshida? " The scared teen added in his question.
" Indeed so. " Morgana confirmed. " It's how his distorted heart views the school. "
" Distorted...Kamoshida... " The trio quickly exchanged concerned looks as they were both confused. " Explain it in a way that makes sense! "
" I shouldn't expect a moron to get it... " Morgana said sounding very disappointed.
" What'd you say!? " Ryuji growled threatening the cat before a sudden god awful scream was heard from inside taking them by surprise. While the trio were shocked Morganna seemed to be unfazed making Zach wonder just long he had been in that cell. " What was that!? "
" It must be the slaves being held captive here. " Morgana said the sentence plainly not even sounding bothered by it. But upon hearing that Zach couldn't help but frown upon what the cat had said and glanced over to see Ren gaining a more serious look while Ryuji was just shocked.
" For real? " More screams were heard and once again the cat was unfazed. " Oh shit...It's for real! We saw other guys being held captive here yesterday...I'm pretty sure they're from our school. "
" Most likely on Kamoshida's orders. It's nothing out of the ordinary; it's like that everyday here. " Morgana kept continuing. " What's more, you three escaped yesterday. He must've lost his temper quite a bit. "
" That son of a bitch! " Ryuji growled cursing over his shoulder looking away from the others who looked at him with concern.
" Ryuji? " Morgana also looked worried while the blonde continued to let out his anger.
" This is bullshit! " He then ran up to the door and slammed his elbow into it. " You hear me, Kamoshida!? "
" Doing that isn't going to open it, you know...Still, you must have your reasons. " Moranna said and indeed he made a point. Even if the front doors were to open, they'd only get swarmed by the guards and most likely they would only get killed. That and also Zach now knew whatever Ryuji had against the bastard, is deeper then he thought.
" Hey, Monamona! " Ryuji said turning around mispronouncing the cats name greatly annoying him.
" It's Morgana! "
" Do you know where those voices are comin' from? " He questioned taking him by surprise.
" You want me to take you to them? " Morgana instantly knew where he was going with that question. Pushing aside his sudden surprise he looked up at Ren. " Well, I guess I could guide you there. But only if he comes with us. "
" Let's go. " Once again Ren didn't hesitate to give an answer with confidence on his face.
" It's settled then. " Morgana smiled.
" For real!? " Ryuji asked pumping his fist up in excitement and Zach couldn't help but chuckle at the little rag tag team they'd just made.
" Well, if he's got the guts too go, then count me in. I wanna get some answers. "
" Thanks guys... " The blonde said showing he was grateful for them helping him out in his time of need.
" All right, lets go, follow me! " With the pact made Morganna lead them over to the corner he popped out of witch turned out to be the same crawl space the trio used to escape yesterday. " This is our infiltration spot. "
" Ain't that where we escaped outta last time? " Ryuji asked.
" That's right. Not barging in through the entrance is one of the basics in phantom thievery. " He explained before zipping up into the vent with ease.
" How are we supposed to know that stuff? " Ryuji asked showing he was still having a hard time absorbing what Morgana was saying, most likely cause it was all new to him.
" I'll make sure to teach you as we go. " He motioned his paw to follow him. " Come on, follow me. "
" So uh... " Ryuji began getting their attention. " Sorry for draggin' you both into all of this...But I can't forgive that bastard Kamoshida doin' whatever he wants! "
" I know what you mean...That's why we got to find more answers, and were gonna do it. " Zach said patting him on the back.
" Really though, thanks for comin' along. I owe you guys big time! "
" It's fine. We should get going though. " Ren said as he then went through the vent with both Zach and Ryuji following suite. Upon entering, it was revealed Morganna was waiting for them and looked ready to go.
" Man, this place is super creepy as always... " Ryuji commented reexamining the room they were in.
" Mm-mm. Now make sure you do exactly as I say, all right? " He got three nods in response. The cat then speeds out of the door, looking down the hall and motioned his paw to come out. " Follow me! " The trio did as he said and soon enough they went through the entrance room from yesterday.
" Hey... We went by here when we came in the front... " The blonde noted.
" Yeah... " Zach said looking around cautiously. " It's quiet like last time. Be ready though guys, if they jump on us, we need bail. " Zach said as he kept his eyes open and had his ears on full alert for any guards.
" Agreed. " Ren said and as Ryuji was gonna speak the area around them suddenly changed, from the school entrance but only for a brief second.
" What the!? I was seein' double or something just now! Was that Shujin!? "
" I don't know, but I saw something just like that yesterday after we got out of here. " Zach said remembering what he had just said.
" It happened to me too. " Ren said as Morgana turned around to face them.
" I've told you before. This place is your school. Regardless, we don't have the time to stand around. Who knows when a Shadow might show up. "
" He's right, were only sitting ducks like this. " Zach agreed. " Isn't this way up ahead? "
" That's right. Follow me. " Morganna instructed compelling the trio to follow the cat.
TAKE YOUR TIME...
And so, after making their way down back into the underground prison, and as they got in Morgana played the role of mentor like he said. He taught them how to effectively ambush a shadow, by getting behind them and ripping off their masks to give them a tactical advantage. Further more, they found the same cell where Ryuji spotted the person wearing the red and white sports uniform yesterday. However, things took a little turn, the guy wasn't there, this made the blonde angry, causing a whole bunch of guards to head there way.
So, ultimately, the group followed their guides advice and headed into a room to hide until things calm down a bit.
" The Shadows won't probably come in here. " Morgana said got onto a wooden table and stretched himself out.
" *pantingx2* How can you tell? " Ryuji asked as he slowed down his breathing.
" Yeah, how do you know this? " Zach added as he sat down.
" There's a lack of distortion here, meaning the rulers control over this area is weak. " As he explained the room suddenly shifted just like at the front entrance only this time it was a classroom, but only for a moment and once again Morganna was unfazed.
" Is this a classroom!? " Ryuji asked.
" Now do you understand? " Morgana asked. " This place is another reality that the rulers heart projects. "
" This is Kamoshida's reality? Shit makes no sense at all! " Ryuji said in frustration.
" He means whatever desires he was talking about earlier materialize and take form in this world. " Zach said taking them by surprise.
" Very good Zach, I'm impressed. " Morgana said in approval.
" Dude, how can you understand this stuff? " Ryuji asked.
" Video games, movies, books. " Zach listed off. " Including stuff about the occult. But only the ones that catch my interest. It's good exercise for the brain that helps you think differently. " He answered while tapping his finger against his head.
" He is right though and I call such a place, a 'Palace'. " The cat said revealing what this sort of place was called.
" A Palace? " Ryuji was still confused.
" This is happening because he thinks the school is own castle. "
" So it became this 'cause he just thought of it like that!? " He then gave off a light laugh and then cursed out. " That son of a bitch! "
" You must really hate this Kamoshida guy. " Morgana commented the blondes anger while standing in a hero pose.
" Hate, doesn't even cover how I feel. " He replied back, you could feel the anger and hatred coming from him, meaning that his beef with Kamoshida ran deeper then Zach thought. " Everything, is that asshole's fault! "
" I don't know what happened between you two, but don't let your emotions get the better of you. His lackeys are everywhere inside. " He then glances over to Ren. " You're curious about your outfit aren't you? "
" Yeah, I'm curious as hell about it too. " Ryuji said crossing his arms, venting out what he had from his outburst.
" I've been wondering about that myself... " Zach added.
" Yeah. I am. " Ren answered. " What is it? "
Morganna turned to face the frizzy haired teen. " That's also because of this world. "
" More stuff that makes no sense... " Ryuji grumbled as he sat down on a barrel to listen to more of what the cat had to say.
" Anything distorts according to how a ruler pleases within their Palace's. A school can turn into a castle like this after all. " Morgana continues on. " In order to prevent such distortions, one must hold a powerful will of rebellion. Your appearance is a manifestation of that. It's the image of rebellion that you hold within. "
" So it's kind of like a form of armor? " Zach inquired.
" In a small sense. Yes, his clothes are indeed armor. "
" Uuugh... " Ryuji groaned as he got back up. " I'm so fed up with this! I'm more curious about you then his clothes! What the hell are you anyways!? "
" I'm a human! " Morgana answered looking Ryuji directly in the eyes. " An honest-to god human! "
" No, you're obviously more like a cat... "
" That's kind of what I thought when I first saw you. " Zach agreed with half of what Ryuji said but he knew that there was more to it, there always is. " How is that you know that your human, and you look like this? "
" This is, well... " Morgana gained a troubled sad look. " It's because I lost my true form...I think. "
" You think? " Ryuji repeated the last two words he heard.
" Morganna, are you saying you have amnesia? " Ren inquired showing a bit of sympathy in his tone.
He nodded sadly looking a bit depressed but replaced it with a smile. " But I do know how to regain my true form. "
" Well? Lay it on us, how are you gonna regain it? " Zach asked showing he was greatly curious.
" It's the same reason why I snuck in here for preliminary investigation of those means. " Morgana answered and Zach guessed what happened next.
" But then you got caught... "
" Yeah...I did..." He said before he jumped and flailed his limbs around. " Besides, I've been tortured by Kamoshida too! I'm gonna make him pay for sure! "
" What is this a comic book? This is seriously crazy... " Ryuji commented.
" And yet it's happening. " Zach pointed out.
" If we're gonna keep going, we should along. " He looks over to Ren. " I'll be counting on your skills this time rookie, got it? " As he was gonna answer Ryuji turned to him and spoke up.
" Don't worry, I'm not gonna force it all on you. I thought it might help, so... " Ryuji then reaches behind him making Ren and Zach freak out.
" Dude! Seriously!? You got brought a gun to school!? What's wrong with you!? "
" Relax...It's just a model gun, so it only makes sounds! " Ryuji said reassuring them.
" That's a toy! " Morgana said sounding a bit displeased.
" But it looks totally real, so it'll at least fake 'em out. " Ryuji said before bringing out some more stuff out of his pockets laying them out on the table. " I brought some medicine too. You know what say: 'Providin' is pre...something. ' Huh? Huh? "
" Actually I'm pretty sure the saying is: 'It always pays to prepared.' " Zach corrected him as he went over to the door.
" So you were planning this from the start...Well, fine. If you're ready to go, we'll resume our infiltration. " Morganna said as Ren took the model gun and tucked it into his coat for a quick way to grab.
" Now might be the time to do so... " Zach advised putting his ear against the door.
" How does it sound out there? " Ren asked.
" There talking...Now there talking about the slaves! " He whispered and continued to listen.
" What are they saying!? " Ryuji yell whispered with the scarred teen motioning him to keep quiet. " Uh-huh..Mm-mm..." He turns around to face them. " Okay, there gone for right now, but I got lead. One of them was also talking about a training hall, that's where the slaves are at. "
" Then that's what we'll start looking for. " Ren said on what their next move was gonna be.
TAKE YOUR TIME...
A few fights later with some very important lessons. For example, the gun actually fired off real bullets! The reason for this was because they were in a Cognitive world. As long as the enemy sees it as real, it will become real, which was something good to know. The next lesson, was a special technique called an 'All-Out Attack'. Like it's name suggests, you first hit the enemy with what there weakest against, like a pixie is very weak to gun attacks and Arsenes darkness, while the Jack 'o Lanterns are weak against Zorro's wind attacks. When the opportunity is given, that's the que to do an all out attack, giving us a very good edge in fights.
All in all, Zach gained a lot of information on how to fight these Shadow's, thanks to Morgana's teaching's and it defiantly seemed Ren was a fast learner. Heck, it almost seemed like he was an entirely different person when he has his mask on.
After that was done they entered a room and inside was a table and another door with a banner hanging above it.
" Kamoshida's...Training Hall...of Love? " Ryuji read out loud. " What kind of bullshit is this!? "
" I think were about to find out for ourselves. " Ren said as they walked over to the door and opened it.
" What it is, I know I'm not gonna like it one bit. " Zach added as the four of them entered inside until the frizzy haired teen stopped them.
" Wait...Do you hear that? Listen. " They kept quiet doing as he said.
" Please! No more! I can't take it! " The group heard a voice and it sounded to be crying out in pain.
" This voice...Where's it coming from? "
" Up ahead. I hear it too. " Zach said and the group continued inside the voices got louder sounding more close by. " Over there! " They all head over to some metal bars and when they did, their hearts sunk upon the sight they were seeing. Their were four teens all lined up near a net and each had a knight beating them with large sticks. Despite their pleas the knights kept beating them senselessly.
" Dammit! " Ryuji cursed stomping down his foot. " This is bullshit! "
" I know, this is just wrong.. " Zach said sadly gazing down watching the beating.
" How many times do I have to ask you to keep your voice down!? " Morganna asked sitting nearby on a crate.
" But this is beyond messed up! " He then turns around to face the gate. " How do I open this? "
" (Sobbing) Stop it! " A voice said getting their attention and just like that teen wearing wrappings around his right arm and left leg walked up to them crying up a storm. You could tell just by looking at their eyes, as they were red showing how much pain he was in. " Leave us alone... It's useless... " He said taking the blonde by surprise as another guy came up.
" If we stay obedient we won't get executed like you guys! "
Ryuji put his face up close to the bars having a hard time listening to what he was hearing. " You're tellin' me you want to stay in a place like this!? "
Morganna frowned upon what he said. " Wait a minute... Were you planning on taking these guys out of here? "
" We can't just leave them here! " Ryuji protested as he turned around.
" How stupid can you be? " The cat said shaking his head in disapproval.
" What!? "
" These are only humans in Kamoshida's cognition. "
" Morganna, what are you talking about? " Zach asked.
" To answer your question...They aren't real humans that've entered from reality. There different from you three. "
" Cognition? " Ryuji was confused by what he meant.
" It means there's no point in saving them! They're different from the real ones in the real world. " Morganna explained. " You could say they're extremely looking dolls... "
" The hell!? Why's everything gotta be so complicated!? " Ryuji asked in frustration. " So if the schools a castle, and the students are slaves... It so on the point that makes me laugh. This really is the inside of that assholes head! "
" So... " The scared teen began. " If I'm getting this right, then whatever were seeing in this castle... Is a reflection of what people are going through in reality? "
" Yes. " Morganna sadly confirmed on what Zach had said and went over to bars to get a view. " This is just horrible. Without a doubt it must mean he treats them as slaves in the real world too. "
" In the real world too? " Ryuji whispered in disbelief and then realized something. " Wait, I know these guys...They're members of the volleyball team- The one Kamoshida coach's for! "
" They're getting physically abused everyday...There's no way they'd be so beat up normally. " Morganna said. " I mean, this proves Kamoshida thinks of them as slaves. "
" So it might be real... " Ryuji said outloud.
" What might be real? " Ren inquired.
" I heard rumors that Kamoshida's usin' physical punishment. They're just rumors, but...If they're true, wouldn't this be somethin' to report to the police? "
" He does make a good point. " Ren said nodding in agreement.
" Yeah, but there's got to be a reason for it though. " Zach spoke up. " I mean if my friends were going through this, I'd call them up in a heart beat. So something has got to be going on in the real world. "
" Well I'm gonna use these guys as evidence. " Ryuji said bringing out his phone. " If all goes well, we can take down that asshole Kamoshida! Huh!? "
" What's the matter? " Zach quickly asked.
" It's the camera. We can use the navigation app, but the camera's a no go!? "
" A navigation app? " Morganna asked in confusion.
" That's what we used to come here. " Ryuji explained. " What yours? "
Zach brought out his phone and quickly examined it. " Nope, nothing, the camera's not working. "
" It's the same with mine. " Ren added. " It might be because were in this other world. "
" That very well could be... " Zach agreed as he put his phone away until Morganna got his attention.
" Whatever you do is fine, but were gonna get caught if we stand around like this. We need to head back! "
" Hang on a sec... " Ryuji said and went up to the bars. " There's no other way...I'll just memorize their faces before going home. "
" Alright, but let's just make sure it don't take to long. " Ren advised.
" Yeah, and you better make it fast. " Zach backed up what his associate had said. " I'll get my eyes open for enemies. Once you're finished, were outa here. "
" Mkay, let's check the other cells. " They all walked over to the next set of bars and peered down into it.
" Oh damn... " Zach was the first to speak at the sight they were seeing. There were three runners and right at the end was massive roller covered in spikes. Basically the idea is, that if any of them slow down or trip, they were gonna get crushed, which would be a very brutal way to die.
" W-Water... "
" Urgh... Please, no more... " The runners begged running on whatever fumes they had left.
" That's just cruel. He ain't giving them water even if there exhausted. " Ren said.
" That sack of shit! I'm gonna try and memorize all these guys' faces before we go back. " Ryuji said as he went to work while Zach went over to the next cell.
" You might wanna look at this one... " The rest of the group came up and they saw a single guy upside down with a rope tied to his legs, so were his hands. To top it off, his face was getting blasted by a cannon that just continued to fire volleyballs.
" The hell? That ain't trainin' at all...It's just violence. " Ryuji said in disbelief. " This means he's doin' something similar in reality too, right? Damn that bastard! "
" Ryuji, we need to hurry. " Ren advised his friend.
" I know, I know... " The blonde replied. " Just gimme a sec. I'll memorize em' quick."
" Hey, are you done yet!? " Morganna asked. " We're cutting it close here! "
" Guy's he's right, we over stayed our welcome. We got to go, right now. " Zach urged them.
TAKE YOUR TIME...
The group was now right back to where they entered with the safe room nearby.
" All right, we're back. We gotta get outta here, quick! " Ryuji said before they heard a voice that sounded like an announcer.
" The watch post near the training hall has ceased reporting! Chances of intruder activity are extremely high! All personnel, increase security measures! " This caused the group to freak out and quickly hide as guards closed in on their location. Morgana was beyond worried.
" Tch, we've stayed here too long... Come on, let's get out of here! "
They all booked it back to the entrance with Morgana at the top of the stairs they entered from. " The exits this way! Let's hurry! " Without hesitation the group made a run for it, however, there was a road block. It was Kamoshida, with a few guards nearby and there was also one that stood out wearing golden armor blocking the only way out.
" You knaves again? " Shadow Kamoshida questioned. " To think you'd make the same mistake again. You're hopeless! "
Ryuji stepped forward. " The school ain't your castle! I've memorized their faces real good. You're goin' down! "
The king smirked upon what he heard and shook his head. " It seems it's true when they say 'barking dogs seldom bite'. How far the star runner of the track team has fallen. "
" The hell' are you gettin' at!? " Ryuji demanded an answer.
" I speak of the track traitor who acted in violence, ending his teammates dreams. " He began sounding like he was enjoying telling the tale. " Oh, I can only imagine the pain of the others who were dragged under with your...selfish act. "
Ryuji grimanced upon what he heard making Ren and Zach look at him. " Track Traitor? "
" Ryuji what's he talking about? " Zach questioned amusing Kamoshida.
" What a surprise. So you're both accompanying him without knowing anything at all? He betrayed his teammates and crushed their hopes, yet he still carries on as carefree as ever. "
" That's not true! " Ryuji cried out putting his hands against his head.
" You've come along with this fool and you are now going to end up dead. How unlucky of you. " He said addressing both Ren and Zach and turned around to address the knight wearing gold armor. " Go. Kill them all. Don't sully my castle with garbage. " The golden knight raised his sword into the air looking to be a signal making the two knights walk forward before exploding into black and red goo turning into two horned horses.
" Dammit! " Ryuji growled.
" Ryuji, Zach, move! " Morgana said as he and Ren went forward to confront the horses. Unfortunately, despite their hardest in fighting off the horeses, they were both overwhelmed and defeated. When they were on the ground Kamoshida slivered out and stomped on Morgana. " Rgh...You piece of- "
" Morgana no... " Ren tried to get up and help him but the gold knight from earlier stomped onto his back as well. Kamoshida turned to face Zach who was glaring and growling at him clenching his fists in anger. He deeply wanted to help, but in the state he was right now, the scarred teen would only get himself killed. Then there was Ryuji, he was on his knees in disbelief that his friends were beaten. He felt defeat and sadness.
" I bet you simply came here on a whim and ended up like this. Isn't that right? "
" No. " Ryuji shook his head.
" What a worthless piece of trash, getting emotional so quickly. How dare you raise your hand at me. Though it was only temporary, have you forgotten my kindness in supervising track practice? "
" Wasn't no practice! " Ryuji said slamming his fists down onto the floor. " It was physical abuse! You just didn't like our team! "
" It was nothing but an eyesore! " Kamoshida sneered. " The only one who needs to achieve results is me! The coach who got fired was hopeless too. Had he not opposed me with a sound argument, I would've settled it with only breaking his star leg. "
" What? "
" Do you need me to deal with your other leg too? The school will still call it self defense anyway! "
" Dammit...Am I gonna lose again? Not only can I run anymore...the track team is gone too...'cause of this asshole! " Ryuji said sounding just about on the brink of tears.
" So that's why... " Morganna said looking at the blonde with a look of understanding one they'd never seen before. Kamoshida dug his foot further into Morgana's back making him grunt in pain.
" Leave him alone! " Zach roared out to Kamoshida.
" You got quite some nerve...Once these two are dealt with, your both next. Hahahahaha! "
" Ryuji! Zach! " Morgana cried out their names seeing now that all hope seemed lost.
" Stand up for yourself! " Ren cried out.
" He's right...Zach breathed and looked over to Ryuji. " Ryuji! Ren's right! You haven't lost yet! "
" Yeah...You're both right...Everything that was important to me was taken by him...I'll never get it back! "
" Stay there and watch! Look on us as these hopeless scum die for nothing because they sided with trash like you. "
" No... " Ryuji said as he stood back up. " That's what you are...All you think about is using people...You're the real scumbag, Kamoshida! " He said slowly walking up to him.
" What are you doing? Silence him! " Kamoshida commanded.
" Stop lookin' down on me with that stupid smile on your face! " Ryuji yelled pointing screaming out towards him. All the sudden his eyes turned bright yellow and he began to grip his hand in pain.
" You made me wait quite a while. " Ryuji then scream and fell down onto the ground. " You seek power, correct? Then let us form a pact. Since your name has already been disgraced already, why not hoist the flag and reak havoc? The 'other you' who exists within desires it, thus. " Ryuji continues to flail on the ground screaming in more pain. " I am thou, thou aren't I...There is no turning back... " He then slowly get's on his knees. " The skull is your rebellion henceforth! " In a flash of blue fire a mask resembling a grey upper jaw of a skull appeared on his face.
The gold knight that held Ren down scoffed at him. " Hmph. What can you do? Cower in fear and watch! " Using everything he had, Ryuji got back onto his feet and used all his strength to tear the mask right off of his face screaming in pain. When he did rip off the mask it left a tear with blood covering his face making a pillar of blue flames appear creating a strong force of wind giving Morgana and Ren the moment they needed to get back on their feet. Yet as everyone was doing this Zach looked was unfazed and looked towards Ryuji and gained an excited grin upon what he witnessed and stepped back a little so they could fight.
Once the flame died down Ryuji was now wearing his own set of clothes, it was black making him look like a thug, minus his yellow gloves and a loose red scarf around his neck. Then there was his Persona. It was a pirate, standing on a floating black ship. It seemed skeletal wearing an eyepatch on it's left eyes a wearing clothing from it's timeline, with a hat, it also had two cutlasses crossed over his chest shaping into an X and had a yellow cannon for his right hand.
The blonde had his head down for a moment, not long before he brought it back up revealing a determined smirk. Kamoshida really looked displeased at the sudden change of events. " Ugh... This one as well!? "
" Right on... " Ryuji smiled looking down to his hands feeling the new power flowing through him. " Wassup persona...This effin' rocks! Now that I got this power, it's time for some payback... " As he said this both Morgana and Ren joined alongside him showing they were ready for round two. " Yo I'm ready...Bring it! "
" Ngh...Don't mock, me you brat! " The gold knight cried out as it turned into a red knight ridding a black horse.
" Blast him away! Captian Kidd! " Ryuji cried out making Kamoshida worry along with the other nearby guards who turned into horned horses joining in the fight.
" What troublemakers that bother King Kamoshida with trifle matters! " The red knight cried out,
" Kamoshida's cognition ain't changin' right? Then I'll act like the trouble maker I am. Let's do this, Captain Kidd! " The pirate seemed to be very pleased with Ryuji's new found resolve. " Zio! " The pirate aimed his cannon and fired upon one of the horned horses who stumbled back greatly in pain and proceeded to do the same with the other horse. Seizing the chance a metal pipe appeared and Ryuji charged forward and bashed one of the horses making it explode into smoke. " Hell yeah! "
" Go Arsene! " Ren cried out taking off his mask making his persona appear and cleaved the other horned horse taking it out and took charge. " Morgana! "
" Right! Zorro, Garu! " On que the vigilante appeared and did his signature z sign sending a blast of green energy at the knight doing a little damage. The knight retaliated as it rode over to Morganna and swung it's weapon only for the cat to dodge the attack with ease.
" Ryuji! Attack! " Ren yelled.
" On it! Go captian, Zio! " Captian Kidd once again fired off a bolt of electricity from it's cannon arm doing some more damage to it.
" Now! " Ren yelled summoning Arsense again swiping it's claws against the knight before Zorro once again made his Z and fired off more wind knocking the knight onto the ground displaying what teamwork can accomplish.
" I am...a loyal subject...of the glorious King Kamoshida... " The knight said speaking it's final words. " So why...have I lost!? "
" It just proves Kamoshida ain't anything special... " Ryuji answered as Captain Kidd reformed back into his mask as the knight turned back into the guard falling onto his back while Ryuji was out of breath. " *Pantingx2* How bout that!? " Ryuji asked Kamoshida.
" Whoa...So Ryuji had the potential too... " Morganna said sounding very surprised.
" Eh, this just goes to show, never judge a book by its cover. " Zach said now coming back from the sidelines and patted the blonde on the shoulder. " Good work dude. "
" Thanks...Even if you apologize now...I ain't forgivin' you! "
" I told you that this is my castle. " Kamoshida said not sounding intimidated one bit. " It seems you still don't understand..." He made a gesture underneath his robe. Then out of nowhere the girl Zach and Ren had seen earlier appeared wearing a very revealing purple bikini leaving Ryuji in shock.
" Wh-Takamaki!? "
" Oh... " Morgana on the other hand got very excited. " Wha...What a meow-velous and beautiful girl! "
This earned a look from Zach. " Really? "
" What!? " Morgana replied looking back at him like he didn't do anything.
" What's going on!? " Ryuji said showing he was still surprised.
" Something seems off... " Ren said to the blonde.
" Yeah, now that you mentioned it. But why is she even here!? " Zach already had a pretty good idea on what was going on, because he remembered yesterday on how she looked like she regretted upon going into Kamoshida's car. Then there was the way he talked today. this proved something was going on, and they might need to look into it later on. But he grew sick upon seeing how he raised her chin now understanding why the nav said 'pervert castle', " Let go of her, you perv! "
" How many times must I tell you to understand? " Kamoshida questioned. " This is MY castle-a place which I can whatever I want. Everyone wishes to be loved by me. "
" Horse shit! " Zach cried out making him scowl at the group.
" That is, everyone besides slow-witted thieves like you. "
" Takamaki! Say somethin'! "
" Calm down Ryuji... " Morgana told the blonde. " It seems that girl isn't the real one. She's the same as those slaves-a being made from Kamoshida's cognition of her! "
" Are you jealous? " The king questioned. " Well I'm not surprised. Woman aren't drawn to problematic punks like you. "
" Dammit! " Ryuji cursed in frustration.
" Clean them up this instant! " Kamoshida cried out before a whole bunch of more guards appeared.
" Were out numbered... " Morgana noted and looked to the trio. " Let's scram before were surrounded! "
" Were not gonna do anything but just run!? " Ryuji asked since Kamoshida was right there and he wanted to finish him off until Ren spoke some sense into him.
" We can't die here! "
" Thank god you've got a level head. " Morgana said nodding in agreement.
" There's to many Ryuji! " Zach added. " We gotta retreat for now! "
" Ngh...Fine... " The blonde said as he then glanced over to Kamoshida. " We'll expose you for what you really are, no matter what! You better be ready for us! "
" Hahahaha! I was getting bored of torturing the ones here! " Kamoshida said and challenged them. " Come at me whenever you want, if you don't care about your life! Haaaahahahahaha! "
" Ignore him! Let's go! " Following Morgana's advice the group bolted.
To be continued
Next time: Chapter 4 Investiagtion Start!
Now replying back to reviewers
ROCuevas
Chapter 1 & 2. Thanks a whole bunch! :)
Ghosts2002: Chapter 2
Ah, thanks for telling me, and now that I noticed, I've also seemed to have been misspelling Morgana's name, I keep adding a second n. Oh well, it's always nice for people to speak up about the little mistakes. And I hope that you enjoyed this chapter as well.
Bobby Jenkins: Chapter 2
Eh, as much and interesting as that idea would sound, sadly no can do. Because it is a challenge, and as for when I'll update my Yugioh story, honestly I have no idea myself, and the chapter for The Sixth Titan Omni is halfway done, so if something comes up, I might finish it and update the story. But I do appreciate you following my stories though. Take care!