I do not own Persona
It was owned by Atlus
I only own my OC's
Enjoy!
Ren and the other two left the 'Training Hall of Love' and found themselves in the dungeon. Morgana used Dia on Ren and himself to recover from the fight earlier when they were surrounded. Ryuji was fine since he had taken no damage, albeit, he seemed tired due to awakening his Persona. As soon as they made it out of the training hall they heard a soldier's voice start alerting the other soldier's around.
"The watch post near the training hall has ceased reporting! Chances of intruder activity are extremely high! All personnel, increase security measures!" A shadow came around searching as it marched away as hid Ren, Ryuji, and Morgana hid behind some crates.
"We stayed here too long..." Morgana grunted. "We're gonna need to hurry if we're gonna find Hiro."
"Right," Ren agreed and looked at Ryuji. "How are you holding up, Ryuji?"
"I'm good," Ryuji stated as he tried to keep his breathing to a minimum. "Don't worry 'bout me. I can keep going."
"Good," Ren said. "Don't act like you're not tired. Once we find senpai we can get out of here and get some rest."
"Yeah, sounds good," Ryuji said as he stretched and craned his neck.
"It should be safe now," Morgana figured to the two. "We need to go now." Morgana ran out of cover followed by Ren and Ryuji.
While running, Ren spotted something on the floor and reached to grab it. Upon inspection, he saw it was Hiro's bandana. Every time Ren saw him, Hiro was always wearing it around his neck. Ren wondered if it was special to him, like a memento of some sort. Hiro may have left it here for them to find which meant he might be close by.
"Ren, hurry up," Morgana insisted as he turned around to Ren as Ryuji approached Ren to see what he had in his hand.
"Yo, is that senpai's bandana?" Ryuji noted. "It is! I mean, the guy pretty much wears it every day. But why'd he leave it just lyin' here?"
"It isn't much to go on but it could mean he left us a small trail," Morgana deduced. "And he could also be nearby." Ren stared at the bandana in his hand until he placed it in his pocket. When they find Hiro, it would be no surprise he would want his bandana back if it means a lot to him.
[BGM: Persona 5 OST: Blood of Villain]
Hiro was pushed on his knees in the middle of the main castle hall. He was surrounded by three of Kamoshida's soldiers, two dark-armored soldiers, and one gold soldier. All brandishing swords, pointing them at Hiro's throat making him unable to move, and even had his wrists in shackles so there was no to fight back.
They didn't see me drop my bandana... Hiro thought. Hopefully, it will let the guys know I'm nearby.
"King Kamoshida..." the gold soldier addressed. "The prisoner continues to struggle. Shall we execute him here?"
"Might as well, though, I'd hate to get blood all over the floor..."Kamoshida grinned. "Haha! It can be decoration! To show anyone what happens when you defy me." Kamoshida walked up, putting a hand on his golden guard's shoulder, making all three guards present step back. "Looks like you have no choice, Isamashi..." Kamoshida came down to Hiro's level, staring at him in the eyes. "This is where your pitiful life comes to an end."
Kamoshida kept his sneer until Hiro reeled back his head and struck the king in the nose. The act caused Kamoshida to stumble back as he reached for his nose, a bit of blood seeped from under his nostrils as he lightly wiped it. He growled at Hiro as the teen smirked at him and the king didn't like that not one bit.
"You say it's my blood..." Hiro said. "But it looks to me it's your blood that's going to decorate the floor." Kamoshida grasped Hiro by the hair on the back of his head and slammed him face-first into the floor. Kamoshida yanked Hiro up by his hair to get him to look at him.
"You pathetic piece of shit!" Kamoshida spat in Hiro's face.
"Go... to... hell..." Hiro muttered in a few breathes, staring defiantly Kamoshida in his demonic-yellow eyes.
Kamoshida let Hiro go by his hair, dropping to the ground. Kamoshida walked turning his back as he kept an angry glare. He spun around to face Hiro, exaggerating the moving of his cape.
"Senpai!" Hiro turned his head at the source of the voice and slowly kneeled up and saw Ren, Ryuji, and Morgana dash into the main hall.
"Imagine that..." Hiro gave a weak smile. "You guys made it. Heh, I had no doubt in my mind you would."
"We're here, senpai!" Ryuji declared. "Let get in there and kick ass, you guys!" the normal soldiers stomped up to them to shield them from getting any closer.
"Spoke too soon..." Morgana sighed as Kamoshida turned to face the trio that had arrived.
"You all just can't help yourselves, can you?" Kamoshida glared.
"Let Isamashi-senpai go!" Ren tried to reason. "And I promise to show you mercy."
"I know I wouldn't..." Ryuji grunted.
"Oh, should I be afraid?" Kamoshida smirked. "Make sure they don't get past. They can watch their friend die due to their self-righteousness." Kamoshida waved his arm in a wide arc."Execute him! Now!"
The gold soldier grasped Hiro by his throat, lifting him up. Hiro tried to wiggle and squirm out of the soldier's grasp. Thinking quickly he kicked the soldier in the chest causing it to stumble and drop him. Hiro managed to catch himself on his feet before he had time to react, the gold soldier back-handed him across the face which sent him careening on the ground. Hiro screamed as he rolled onto his back and landed on his face. All attention was on him as Ren and the others gave him expressions of worry.
"You're still trying to fight back, huh?" Kamoshida seemed to smile amusingly. "You always had a fire in you, Isamashi. You had the drive to be a winner. You never complained to me and did what you were told unlike some other members of the volleyball team! You could've been so much more! But you had to just go ahead and quit the team just to rebel against me! Such talent! Wasted! Now, look at you. A low-life student just like all the rest. All because I spread a small rumor that you tried to assault me. It wouldn't have gotten out if it wasn't for the players of the volleyball team if I didn't... put them up to it." Kamoshida smiled as if he had won. Hiro's eyes widened hearing that last part.
"What...?" Hiro mouthed in confusion.
Hiro put his head down as he put the pieces together in his mind. Kamoshida had the volleyball team spread a rumor which was how it was able to spread so fast and it's why everyone avoids him at school.
"So it was you!" Hiro glared at Kamoshida. "Well, it does explain how everyone figured that conclusion. Do you want to know something? I quit that team because I knew what it all really was!" It was just a way for you to take advantage of everyone so no one could fight back! You tried to break me but you didn't! I got through all of your abuse! I quit because I was tired of lying to my family, friends, and everyone else I care about! I gritted my teeth and toughed it out! I turned a blind eye to everything but now I'm ready! I'm going to make you pay for everything you have done!"
"Damn pest!" Kamoshida growled angrily. The gold soldier kicked Hiro in the chest, knocking him onto his back. "This is the end of the line, Isamashi. Kill him now!"
Hiro settled back onto his knees as the gold soldier approached him. He may have gotten what he wanted to say to Kamoshida but it didn't matter in the end. He was going to die. He wasn't going to see Dad or Hamuko ever again. But the last person he thought about was Makoto. She was only trying to help him but he pretty much pushed her away without telling her what's wrong and will never get to apologize to her.
"Senpai!" Hiro heard Ren call him. His eyes were wide with wonder, thinking what Ren had to say to him. "Listen to me! Kamoshida has not won yet! So, you can't give up!"
Hiro was stunned by Ren's words. He was ready to give up all hope and die but here comes this guy he met a couple of days ago tell him to not give up. If Hiro were to die here then who was going to make Kamoshida pay.
"Don't give up...?" Hiro repeated staring at Ren. "Yeah... Yeah!" he said with more enthusiasm in his voice. "You're right, Amamiya. I won't let it end like this!" Hiro stood on his feet, almost falling over but soon caught himself. He wiped his mouth and glared at Kamoshida and bolstered: "I WILL NOT BOW DOWN TO YOU, KAMOSHIDA!"
[BGM: Persona 5 OST: Awakening]
A sudden sharp pain shot through Hiro's head which caused him to scream. His brown eyes turned a golden yellow as he felt like was about to split open. Tears leaked from his eyes as saliva cascaded from both corners of his mouth. Besides the pain in his head, there was a loud voice that sounded like his own.
You have kept me waiting oh so long... Thou is now ready to stand before this self-proclaimed 'king'... this bastard caused torment to you and others, the 'other you' believes it is time for a more direct approach... wouldn't you agree?
Hiro was becoming frustrated but found himself agreeing with everything the voice said. He freed himself from his shackles with a cry. The pain in his head still raged on as he grit his teeth and fell on his knees and punched the ground beneath him. The floor cracked from the hard punch, he brought up his fist as it obtained visible bruises. Heavy sweat poured down his forehead as he relaxed and accepted the words of the voice.
"Yeah..." Hiro muttered with his head down. "I agree."
"Splendid, sire! Time to forge our contract...!" the sharp pain returned as Hiro gave out another cry, grasping the sides of his head. "I am thou, thou art I... thou have been labeled this bastard's 'pawn' for too long." a metallic silver domino mask appeared over his eyes in a small flash of blue flames. "Raise your blade for today marks your knighting!"
Hiro stood on his feet, using one of his hands to pull the mask off his face. Just pulling it was even tough itself, it felt as if it were glued on him like some kind of sick, twisted joke and felt like it didn't belong there. The harder he pulled the more it started to hurt.
"Graaaugh!" Hiro screamed as he managed to free himself from the mask. As it came free, the upper area around Hiro's eyes was covered in blood as it gushed from him like a geyser. A pillar of bright blue flames enveloped him as a huge burst of wind nearly blasted everyone back and shield themselves from the incoming gust.
[BGM: Persona 5 OST: Willpower]
The flames cleared as Hiro was revealed in a new outfit. He wore a white leather trench-coat that that's left open and stops at his thighs with the collar flared upward, white metal pauldrons on either shoulder, underneath the jacket is a white breastplate, a black chain-mail shirt under the plate, grey gloves, a black belt buckled around his waist and over the coat with four black pouches on either side and black pants tucked into a pair of black combat boots with white metal greaves that covers his shins.
Behind Hiro was a towering individual floating in the air. The figure wore a white knight's helm with wings on either side and visible red eyes in the visor, and long black hair flowing from underneath the helm. His body is thin and covered with a white chest plate, underneath the plate is a black chainmail shirt, white metal pauldrons on either shoulder with three short spikes protruding from each one, white plate gauntlets, white chausses covering his legs, and white sabatons on his feet with pointed tips and short blades attached to the heels. He wields a greatsword with a shiny blade and black handle.
Hiro felt the power coursing through him. He wondered if this what felt like when Ren first summoned his Persona. He felt free, no longer felt restricted. Hiro knows now that he has Mordred, he believed he can do anything as long as he has the strength to do it.
"This one too...!?" Kamoshida said as he backed behind the gold soldier. Ren, Ryuji, and Morgana fell in beside Hiro, ready to join him in the fight.
"I knew you had it in you, Senpai," Ren smiled at Hiro.
"I owe you one, Amamiya," Hiro smirked.
"By the way..." Ren said as he reached in his pocket. "I think this belongs to you." Hiro saw Ren pull out his bandana he left behind. Hiro smiled at Ren and took his bandana and tied it around his neck. Along with Hiro's outfit, his bandana changed from his usual grey to a black and white checker style.
"You afraid, Kamoshida?" Hiro glared as he stepped forward as the gold soldier shielded its king. "As of today, you no longer have control over me."
"Fool!" the gold soldier bellowed. "I'll make you eat the words you said to King Kamoshida!" it melted a red and black ooze as it converted into a red knight with a black steed.
Mordred reached himself and drew a longsword and released it. The blade lodged into the ground tip first as Hiro strode toward the sword and yanked the sword out and held it tightly in his right hand.
"You wish to defend your 'king'? Then come over here and make me!" Hiro exclaimed clenching his fist. "Mordred! Let's annihilate them!" the other two soldiers transformed beside the Guard Captain changing into a pair of Dirty Two-Horned Beasts.
"They'll do," Hiro remarked. "Amamiya, if it's all the same to you, leave the big one to me." Hiro gestured his head toward the Guard Captain.
"All yours," Ren nodded. "We'll handle the small fry. That acceptable for you guys?" he asked Morgana and Ryuji.
"Fine with me!" Morgana said.
"Let's tear 'em apart!" Ryuji shouted.
Hiro strolled toward the Guard Captain as the shadow took the first move charging with its horse. It attacked with a Cleave but Hiro was quick to evade with a back-flip, landing on his feet and reached for his mask, and pulled it off to call his 'other self'. His Persona.
"Come, Mordred!" Hiro brought forth his 'other self'. "Cut them down!" Hiro used Mordred to attack with his own Cleave. The shadow was hit by the strike which caused it to become agitated, with a roar it raced at Hiro for another strike with its spear. Hiro blocked the attack effortlessly with his longsword and shoved the Guard Captain away. The Dirty Two-Horned Beasts rushed Hiro from both sides but never so much as paying them a second glance. The shadow's never got to him as Ren and the others blocked their advancement.
"Where're you off to!?" Ryuji questioned. "Your fight's with us? Let's go, Captain!" he blasted Zio at the first of the shadow's, it became weak as Ryuji knocked it dead with his led pipe.
The last of the Two-Horned Beasts was giving Ren and Morgana a hard time. Not because it was tough but due to the fact the shadow kept moving about which made it difficult to attack. It kept moving about the main hall until it was hit by a bolt of lightning. Ren Morgana were both left confused until a whistle sounded off getting their attention to find Ryuji giving a thumbs up.
"You guys looked like you could use a little help!" Ryuji smiled cheekily.
"Thanks for the assist!" Ren gave a thumbs-up back.
"Yeah, yeah..." Morgana dismissed not caring at all. "We should take it down now!"
"Ryuji, join us for this!" Ren smirked. "It's time for an All-Out Attack!" Ren declared which seemed to excite Ryuji as it was his first time performing one. The three struck the shadow from all directions, the repeated blows from their melee weapons KO'd the shadow as it vanished away.
"That's all she wrote!" Ryuji stated victoriously.
"Not gonna lie, but that was easy," Morgana said. "Now, all Hiro needs to do is finish off that shadow."
Hiro leaped at the shadow and stood on its horse. He brought down his longsword as the shadow blocked it with its spear. The horse neighed as it pushed itself on its hind legs. The action causing Hiro to almost fall but jumped into the air by springing off the horse's head. Hiro flipped and landed on his feet, he stood and made a 'come and get it' gesture with two fingers. The shadow rushed him and went to attack Hiro with a Cleave which was avoided by Hiro who rolled out of the way.
The Guard Captain went for another strike with its spear as Hiro used his longsword to cancel the attack by knocking the spear away. The counter caused the horse to blunder as Hiro took his turn to sprint at the shadow, he sped through the shadow and sliced it with his sword. Hiro was bent down on one knee with his head down. The Guard Captain believed Hiro left himself open but Hiro was ready as he took off his mask and summoned Mordred.
"Eiha!" Hiro shouted as his Persona blasted the shadow with an eruption of dark red and black. The howled in pain as it almost slumped over as Hiro turned and walked toward the shadow, Hiro stood in front of the weak Guard Captain as Mordred floated behind him. "Sever it, Mordred!" Hiro called as Mordred made one final strike with Cleave as the shadow painfully screamed.
"How could I lose?" the Guard Captain cried. "I am a loyal subject to King Kamoshida."
"Your 'king' is going to regret he ever messed with me..." Hiro confidently remarked as he sheathed his blade. "This is your 'kings' downfall," Hiro said as he downed his thumb.
[OST end]
The Guard Captain reverted back to his gold armor and crashed on its back unmoving. Hiro nearly fell but managed to catch himself and steadied his breathing to calm his tense demeanor. Hiro glared directly at Kamsohida who stared back.
Okay, you bastard..." Hiro growled. "It's your turn."
"Whoa..." Morgana sounded as if he were impressed. "So, not just Ryuji but even Hiro had the potential..."
"They're pretty amazing, aren't they?" Ren nodded with a proud smile.
"Hmm," Morgana hummed in agreement. "Not bad." Ryuji walked forward to stand beside Hiro.
"Even if you apologize now..." Ryuji said. "we ain't forgivin' you...!" Kamoshida only smiled in response at the teens and cat.
"I told you before that this is my castle," he said. "It seems you still don't understand..."
"What are you going on about now?" Hiro wondered raising an eyebrow. Sauntering to Kamoshida's side was Ann Takamaki clad in a purple leopard printed bikini, a tiara with cat ears, and pink high heels. With Shujin Academy being famous for its rumors, she was a topic among the student body. Hiro never labeled her like how other's did and didn't know her very well but he felt it unfair with how she's treated. But his honest right now was why she was in the castle and dressed like that
"Takamaki-san...?" Hiro said.
"Wh-What's she even doing here!?" Ryuji questioned.
"Oh!" Morgana smiled.
"Morgana...?" Ren wondered raising a brow at the cat.
"What a meow-velous and beautiful...!"
"'Meow-velous'...?" Hiro couldn't help but wonder about the cat pun but put his focus on Takamaki.
"What's going on...!?" Ryuji asked no one in particular.
"Hmm?" Ren hummed. "Guys? Something seems off."
"I agree," Hiro nodded as he felt something definitely seemed wrong about all of this.
"Yeah," Ryuji agreed. "Now that you mention it... but why is he even here!?" Kamoshida brought up a hand to caress 'Takamaki's' cheek. "Hey!" Ryuji called. "Let go of her, you perv!"
"How many times must I tell you until you understand?" Kamoshida remarked. "This is MY castle-a place in which I can do whatever I want. Everyone wishes to be loved by me." he glared at the group. "That is, everyone besides slow-witted thieves like you."
"Takamaki!" Ryuji shouted. "Say somethin'!"
"That isn't Takamaki," Ren concluded.
"Jut as I thought," Hiro nodded. "She's only a cognition, correct Morgana?"
"That's right," Morgana said. "Like the other slaves, she's a being made from Kamoshida's cognition."
"Are you jealous?" a cocky smirk made its way across Kamoshida's face. "Well, I'm not surprised. Women aren't drawn to problematic punks like you."
"Dammit...!" Ryuji cursed through gritted teeth.
"Clean them up this instant!" Kamoshida ordered as five more Shadow's appeared before the four.
"Not good..." Hiro said. "I think it's time we left."
"Yeah," Morgana nodded. "We're outnumbered... let's scram before we get surrounded!"
"We're not gonna do anything and just run!?" Ryuji questioned.
"Sakamoto!" Ren reasoned. "We have to go! You and Senpai here just awakened to your Persona's and Morgana and I are also pretty gassed as well! If we fight right now we'll surely lose this time!"
"Looks like someone's got a level head," Morgana said.
"Come on, Sakamoto..." Hiro said clasping a hand on his underclassman's shoulder. "Amamiya's right. Just remember that we're gonna make him eat his words and he'll repent for everything he's done." Ryuji stared at Hiro's and nodded, turning back to Kamoshida glaring straight at him.
"We'll expose you for what you really are, no matter what!" Ryuji growled. "You better be ready for us...!"
"Hahahaha! I was beginning to get bored of torturing the one's here!" Kamoshida gave a wide smile. "Come at me whenever you want, if you don't care about your life! Hahahahahahaha!"
"Ignore him," Morgana told the three teens. "Let's go!"
The now four Persona users made it outside the castle at the front entrance. Each of the teens breathing for air while Morgana was lying face down on the ground. Hiro breathed out with a hand on his hip until he finally took in the new attire he wore. Despite being armor, the outfit itself was breathable and was light so it didn't restrict movement.
"Anyways!" Ryuji panted and stared at his own outfit. "Never got the ask since were so caught up in rescuin' senpai, but what's up with these clothes?"
"They look good on you," Ren commented with a smirk.
"Uh, should I be happy about that?" Ryuji questioned.
"While you have reservations about your costume..." Hiro remarked still admiring the own clothes. "I really like mine."
"What...!?" Ryuji gave Hiro an incredulous look. "Dude, what're you even supposed to be? A knight or somethin'...?"
"I believe that is the be the case here," Hiro mentioned whilst giving his clothes another look.
"I think it suits him well," Ren said.
"Really?" Ryuji shook his head and look at Ren and his outfit. "Well, at least our clothes can't be as bad as yours."
"Not so sure about that," Hiro stated folding his arms. "I think Amamiya's got us beat in that department."
"For real...?" Ryuji muttered frowning.
"That black coat compliments him perfectly," Hiro commented as he admired Ren's outfit. "It's like it was made for him."
"And I agree," Ren announced proudly.
"The eff..." Ryuji sighed at the two in disbelief.
"Did you find them!?" came a shadow's voice inside the castle. From inside the castle, it seemed the shadows were searching for them.
"Quiet!" Morgana shushed everyone as he quickly sprang back up.
"No. Search that way!"
"So, what's goin' on?" Ryuji wondered. "I'm completely lost, man...!"
"I told you before," Morgana claimed. "When a Persona user opposes a Palace's ruler becomes a threat to them, this happens. It's to prevent you from being affected by distortions."
"Is this... a skull?" Ryuji said touching his mask.
"Oh right, the mask," Hiro noticed moving a hand across his masquerade half-mask. "Do you know what the deal is with our outfits and masks, Morgana? You mentioned you need a 'will of rebellion'."
"Correct," Morgana nodded. "Your appearance reflects your inner self. It's the rebel that slumbers within."
"The rebel that slumbers within'?" Hiro repeated quietly. He didn't have a clue why but he liked the way that sounds. "I understand. I think I'm getting the hang of this whole Palace/Persona business."
"Glad to you you're at least getting it," Morgana said and turned to Ryuji. "You're still having trouble getting it, are you?"
"Yeah," Ryuji muttered with a frown.
"Then stop asking questions and accept what you see for what it is," Morgana stated.
"Easy for you to say," Ryuji scowled until his face went to a look of realization. "Wait, we're in deep shit!"
"I said to be quiet!" Morgana snapped.
"What's the matter?" Hiro asked.
"Yeah, what's up?" Ren wondered what Ryuji was so freaked out about.
"We might've gotten away here," Ryuji mentioned. "But we're screwed with Kamoshida at the real school..."
"That's quite sharp of you!" Morgana commented. "For being an idiot. Relax. The Kamoshida in reality can't possibly know about what happens here. A Shadow is the true self that is suppressed-a side of one's personality they don't want to see."
"So we're OK?" Ryuji wondered.
"Did the Kamoshida in reality remember about the execution?" Morgana asked as he waited for an answer but didn't get one. "There you have it."
"That's good to know that we're at least safe in reality," Ren said with some relief in his voice.
"Yeah," Hiro nodded. "That's somewhat a good thing." Hiro used 'somewhat' loosely as nothing at Shujin is safe with Kamoshida there. But it was at least refreshing that he had no clue what happened in his palace.
"All right!" Ryuji said. "Now that we know about that, all we gotta do is-"
"Wait," Morgana spoke up getting the attention back to him. "It's your turn to cooperate with me. That's why I was super nice about teaching you idiots everything."
"Huh?" Ryuji wondered. "Cooperate?"
Hiro was lost as to what Morgana was even talking about. It was true they should be grateful for Morgana's help, but he didn't have a clue to what he was implying.
"Don't you remember?" Morgana asked. "I originally came here for an investigation. I need to erase the distortion from my body and regain my real form! That's why we must delve deep into Momentos and-"
"Whoa, hold up," Ryuji interrupted Morgana. "What are you goin' on and on about?"
"Yeah, Morgana, we have no idea what you're talking about," Ren said.
"That, and I don't remember any of us agreeing we'd help you," Hiro mentioned rubbing the back of his neck.
"Huh?" Morgana's eyes went wide. "Don't tell me... are you not going to repay the hospitality I showed you? Especially you!" Morgana looked up at Ren. "You're going to up and leave, even though you're already apart of my master plan!?"
"I don't remember promising anything," Ren said simply as Morgana's eyes went wide.
"Exactly," Hiro said. "Amamiya or any of us never promised we'd help you." at this point Morgana's face turned angry.
"Is it because I'm not human...?" Morgana snapped. "Because I'm a cat...? Is that why you're making a fool of me!?"
"We're busy!" Ryuji said as he knelt in front of Morgana. "Thanks for everything, cat. You've got guts, bein' a cat and all! See you around!" Ryuji smirked and then ran off.
"Thanks a lot, Morgana," Hiro smiled. "Not sure if we'll ever see you again but well, bye!" Hiro waved and then dashed off after Ryuji.
"Farewell, Morgana," Ren gave a smirk toward Morgana. "You were a great help to us. Thank you very much." Ren ran off and followed Ryuji and Hiro.
"Hey! What the hell!" Morgana shouted at them. "Ugh, seriously! Why're you wrapping this up like everything's all hunky-dory!? Oh, hell no! Get back here! GRRAAAAAGHHH!"
"You have returned to the real world. Welcome back."
The voice from Ren's phone spoke as he, Hiro, and Ryuji were in the alleyway that leads to the main entrance of Shujin Academy. The teens breathed heavily as they all showed signs of exhaustion as to what they went through.
"Thank god," Ryuji said in relief. "We're back."
"That we are," Ren said with his hands on his hips.
"I dragged you guys around a lot, huh?" Ryuji said to Ren and Hiro. "Sorry."
"It's no big deal, Sakamoto," Hiro assured as he stood back up.
"I'm dead tired..." Ryuji sighed. "How you guy's holdin' up?"
"I could sleep for a whole year," Ren quipped.
"I'm so tired I could sleep for a whole millennium," Hiro added.
"Me too," Ryuji replied. "Man, I'm gonna sleep like a rock when I get home." Ryuji grinned. "But damn, if what we saw was for real, this is gonna get good!"
"How is this gonna 'get good' exactly?" Hiro questioned folding his arms. "We were almost killed, you know?"
"It's gonna get good because I remember the faces of the guys Kamoshida was treatin' like slaves," Ryuji mentioned. "Once we make 'em fess up to any physical abuse, Kamoshida will be done."
"Do you honestly think that's going to work?" Hiro wondered.
"Dude, how do you know it isn't?" Ryuji asked. "It's ain't like you tried it. And you can help testify or somethin' since you were on the team?"
"Maybe?" Hiro said clutching his bandana. "But..."
"Wanna help me look for those guys or any witnesses?" Ryuji asked Ren but turned away. "Hey, so... if your thinkin' of layin' low 'cause you gotta criminal record, I don't think that'll help. Everyone already knows. They totally got you pegged as a criminal."
"Wait, wait, wait..." Ren said as he held a hand up. "How did everybody find out?"
"Right," Hiro agreed. "The only way it could've linked that fast is... oh." Hiro put the pieces together in his head. "Kamoshida."
"Yeah," Ryuji growled. "Bastard opened his damn mouth!"
"A teacher did that...?" Ren asked.
"No one else besides a teacher could've leaked it that fast!" Ryuji said folding his arms. "It doesn't matter if it's a student or club; that asshole just wrecks things he doesn't agree with. Just like he did with me...! No one'll take anything I say seriously. Still, those rumors about him gettin' physical are real. And after seein' Kamoshida's distorted-heart thing in person, there's no way I can just sit back!"
Ren noticed Ryuji was ready to try anything to take down Kamoshida. There was no way he could refuse as he was depending on him to help him with this. Kamoshida was abusing kids and adults weren't doing anything about it so it was up to them.
"Of course," Ren nodded. "Let's do it."
"I..." Hiro said as he got Ren and Ryuji's attention. "I'm gonna help you guys."
"Woah, you sure?" Ryuji questioned. "If you help us you'd be roped in with us as outcasts? You sure 'bout this?"
"I'm already an outcast after quitting the volleyball team, so hey..." Hiro smirked. "What have I got to lose?"
"Yes!" Ryuji grinned. "This'll totally work if there's three of us in this! I'm counting on you! Don't worry, I'm hyped about this too!" Ren felt a bond of trust coming from Ryuji as time froze around him.
Date: Unknown
Day: Unknown
Time of Day: Unknown
Weather: Unknown
Location: Interrogation room
Ren had been in this interrogation room for who knows how long. Despite being drugged with truth serum and beat down by detectives, he was doing his best to answer Prosecutor Sae Niijima's questions even in his delirious state.
"You want to know if I had colleagues?" Ren wondered. "It's true. Can't do everything solo. Although, I'm not going to give any of them up."
"That's alright, we have ways of figuring that out," Sae assured. "Acting as Phantom Thief would've been more efficient alone. You could've gone about it that way. However, you did not. There are merits to having associates. That's what you decided. Am I wrong?"
"What can I say?" Ren smiled. "I have a natural charm. People just flock to me."
I am thou, thou art I...
thou hast acquired a new vow.
It shall become the wings of rebellion
that breaketh thy chains of captivity.
With the birth of the Chariot Persona,
I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall
lead to freedom and new power...
The voice in his mind faded as everything went back to normal. Ryuji's stomach growled loudly causing him to scratch his head in a bashful way. Ren couldn't blame him as he well felt the same sentiment, feeling famished as well
"Right..." Ryuji said. "I haven't eaten since lunch."
"I'll join you guys if you're going to stop somewhere," Hiro spoke.
"Why not," Ryuji shrugged. "Plus, it'd be weird splittin' off now, so let grab a bite to eat."
"What kind of food?" Ren wondered. "Got a specific place in mind?"
"Meat, man," Ryuji remarked as he went to pick up his school bag.
"We're going to the Beef Bowl shop in Shibuya, are we?" Hiro figured picking up his own bag.
"Yep!" Ryuji grinned like a kid. "Just follow me. Hey Ren, I totally gotta hear about your past!"
"I guess that would be okay," Ren said as he pushed up his glasses. "Lead the way then."
The trio went to the beef bowl shop as Hiro had guessed. They sat and ordered food and Ren decided to come clean about his record since Ryuji wanted to know. Hiro explained to Ren that it wa okay if he didn't want to tell them whether it was personal or not but Ren insisted it was fine. While eating Ren gave the short version of what happened when he tried to help that woman from that drunk man. The story had made Ryuji upset when hearing it.
"WHAT!?" Ryuji shouted as other customers and workers looked in their direction. Hiro sighed after he swallowed some of his food.
"Sakamoto..." Hiro said. "Be quiet, man. We're in a public place." Hiro's advice went unheard as Ryuji was still angered after Ren's story.
"The hell, man!" Ryuji exclaimed. "How much shittier can that asshole get!?"
"For crying out loud..." Hiro muttered with a roll of his eyes and continued eating his beef bowl.
"Calm down," Ren told him as he paused his own eating. "It's all in the past. Nothing I can do about it now."
"Are you for real?" Ryuji questioned incredulously. "If it was me, I wouldn't calm down until I punched that dick in the face."
Though, I must admit..." Hiro rejoined the conversation. "The way you spoke about that guy, he seems like a huge A-hole. I gotta give you points for trying to help that woman, even though you were the one that ended up arrested. I'm sorry, Amamiya. It's a shame those cops weren't even willing to listen to your side and would just arrest you like that."
"It was just out of my control," Ren said. "You don't need to be sorry, senpai."
"It's just..." Hiro sighed. "It's a load of crap the way that all went down."
"Right!" Ryuji agreed. "So... you left your home town and your living here now, huh?" Ryuji spoke while he ate as Hiro groaned in annoyance likely not amused by Ryuji's lack of table manners.
"Yeah, pretty much," Ren answered as he dug into his food with his chopsticks.
"We might be more alike than I originally thought," Ryuji noted.
"You may be right," Ren smiled.
"You're the first guy that made me think that," Ryuji grinned back. "I guess it's how we're treated like a pain in the ass by the people around us," he explained in his own way. "Like we don't belong. I did something at school before too."
Ren knew Ryuji was referring to what happened between him and Kamohida. He assumed there must have been a fight which led to Ryuji hurting his leg. Kamoshida had managed to get the former track coach fired and disbanded the track time. Just how much leeway does Kamoshida have? Probably a lot since the Principal plays favorites when it comes to the volleyball coach.
"I suppose you're right about the whole 'don't belong' thing," Hiro smirked.
"Oh, yeah," Ryuji realized as he looked at him. "You're the same as us. Sucks to go through all that shit at school, huh?"
"Eh, I manage," Hiro shrugged folding his arms. Ryuji swallowed the remaining contents as he slammed his bowl on the counter.
"The place you're livin' now is in... Yongen, right?" Ryuji asked Ren. "It's rush hour on the subways. I suggest you kill some time before headin' home."
"True," Hiro agreed. "It's especially bad with that recent train accident. By the way, you want to walk to the station again, Amamiya?"
"Sure," Ren nodded as Ryuji reached for some of the ginger and putting in Ren's bowl. "What are you doing?"
"Just lemme do it," Ryuji smirked. "I gotta thank you for helpin' me."
"This is how you help me?" Ren asked in disbelief while raising an eyebrow. "By placing ginger inside MY food? Yeah, great. Thanks." Ryuji and Hiro only laughed at Ren's response.
"What's wrong with ginger?" Hiro wondered. "Not a fan of it?"
"I was never too fond of it," Ren remarked. "I find the smell and taste a bit overwhelming."
"Anyways, I got your back like you guy's got mine tomorrow on," Ryuji grinned. "As long as we do something about Kamoshida, I'm sure we'll all feel better about bein' at school."
"It'll be tough to accomplish," Hiro chimed in. "But how could we know for sure if don't try. Since we're doing this together, I'll let you guys call me by my first name. Call me 'Hiro'. That what my family and friends call me."
"Just curious, but..." Ryuji questioned. "Why 'Hiro'?"
"It's shorter than saying 'Yasuhiro'," Hiro explained. "It's kind of a mouth full so I just shorten it to make it easier for others."
"But would it be wrong to call our upperclassman by their first name?" Ren asked. "Or a nickname?"
"If I give permission, it's all good," Hiro shrugged. "I don't mind."
"Yeah, we should make this easier to just call ourselves by our first names," Ryuji smirked at the idea. "So, I'll make it easy and let you guys call me Ryuji. Does that sound cool to you, Ren?" Ryuji kept the grin on his face as Ren smiled at him.
"Sure," Ren said. "It sounds just fine, Sakamoto." Ren's smiled at the faux blonde with a mischievous stare.
"For real..." Ryuji only frowned at him in exasperation. Hiro chuckled softly with a shake of his head.
"Well, it's a start," Hiro said. "I hope we get along."
"As do I, Hiro," Ren smiled.
"Oh, your gonna call him 'Hiro' but call me 'Sakamoto'?" Ryuji frowned at Ren in disbelief.
We should exchange numbers," Hiro offered. "I don't think it would hurt to stay in touch."
"Yeah, let's do that!" Ryuji said in agreement. "We should give each other our chat ID, too." the three pull out their smartphones and exchanged contact info, their phones letting off a small 'ping'. "Just you wait, Kamoshida," Ryuji glared. "We're gonna start right away tomorrow. First, let's hit up those guys that were slaves."
"Wait...?" Hiro pondered with his chin in his palm. "Isn't the volleyball rally tomorrow?"
"Oh, yeah, the stupid rally," Ryuji groaned. "Shit's recommended by Kamoshida. Makes me wanna gag."
"A volleyball rally sounds super unnecessary," Ren voiced.
"It is," Hiro deadpanned. "All it's gonna be is a way for Kamoshida to stroke his over-sized ego."
"Exactly!" Ryuji agreed. "Cause that's all it's gonna be. But thanks to that, we got no classes in the afternoon, and we can walk around unnoticed. Well, I guess we can work out the details tomorrow..."
"Yeah, we should start going home now," Hiro mentioned as he put his chopsticks down. "I've finished eating."
"We can't go just yet," Ryuji smirked which made Hiro raise an eyebrow. "Ren here has barely eaten a single thing outta his beef bowl," Ryuji claimed as he nudged Ren's shoulder. "C'mon, you gotta eat more. There's ton's a ginger here." the blonde reached to grab more ginger to place into Ren's food.
"Sakamoto, I don't want any ginger!" Ren objected.
"Dude, I'm gonna keep putting ginger in your food, if ya don't quit callin' me Sakamoto!" Ryuji challenged as he leaned over with the ginger. "Eat up, man!"
"Sakamoto..." Ren begged.
"Ryuji," the blonde corrected as he kept his smile. "Looks like your askin' for more ginger." Ren groaned at Ryuji's insistence on the ginger as he gave Hiro a pleading look.
"A little help here..." Ren said.
"Normally I would..." Hiro chuckled resting his chin on his own palm. "But I'm just enjoying watching this. I think Ren wants more ginger, Ryuji."
"Thanks for your help," Ren remarked sarcastically as he pushed Ryuji's away. "I don't like ginger. Remember, I can't stand the stuff."
The boys soon left the establishment, before leaving Hiro apologized in case they were too noisy. They made their way down the central street as Ryuji paused to talk.
"So, about this plan to take down Kamoshida..." Ryuji said.
"You might want to quiet down," Ren suggested.
"Can't we save it until tomorrow?" Hiro suggested. "Honestly, I'm kinda tired."
"Oh, right!" Ryuji agreed. "I'm pretty beat, too. I'll message you guys later." Ryuji smiled as he walked off. "See ya tomorrow."
"Bye," Ren waved.
"See ya," Hiro waved bye as Ryuji departed. Ren was about to start walking toward the station but stopped as Hiro put a hand on his shoulder.
"Something wrong?" Ren wondered.
"Nothing, it's just..." Hiro sighed. "Before we go, Ren, I got something I want to say. If you don't mind listening for a second?" Ren could Hiro looked a bit embarrassed about what he was going to say.
"What's on your mind?" Ren wondered.
"Well..." Hiro said before he sighed. " I was honestly afraid when I was going to be executed. I thought it was pretty much the end of the road for me." Hiro smiled embarrassingly and rubbed the back of his neck. "But when you told me I couldn't let it end like that. It gave me a boost and made me feel like I can really stand up to Kamoshida. Well, I'm sure you get I'm trying to say thanks."
"Anytime, Hiro," Ren smiled whilst giving a nod.
"Yeah, anytime," Hiro grinned. "If you need help or want to talk, feel free to give me a call." Hiro held his fist out for Ren. "as Ryuji mentioned: I got your back."
Hiro is a good guy and seemed dependable. He gave this sense like you can trust him which was kinda the reason why Ren liked him and just like earlier with Ryuji, everything paused around them.
Location: Interrogation Room
"Leading your own group couldn't have been an easy task," Sae figured. "You had help with that. You had someone with you who has experience leading a team.'
"A leader could always use a good second-in-command," Ren said as his lips curled in a smirk. "Or I am just a natural-born leader."
"You're not helping, Amamiya-kun..." Sae sighed as she leaned closer. "Just tell me who this person is."
I am thou, thou art I...
thou hast acquired a new vow.
It shall become the wings of rebellion
that breaketh thy chains of captivity.
With the birth of the Strength Persona,
I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall
lead to freedom and new power...
Everything went normal as Ren and Hiro put their arms down. Ren wondered if that was going to happen a lot. It had to be what Igor mentioned about 'others who would prove beneficial to you'.
"Let's head home," Hiro gestured his head toward the station.
"You said it," Ren smiled. "Let's go." they started their trek down the street. They walked past two others, a silver-haired woman and a brown-haired young man. Ren noticed but didn't pay them much attention as they didn't give mind to him either. But as they walked past, Hiro turned his head at them. Ren wondered if Hiro knew them from somewhere but didn't want to pry or ask.
"Uh, Hiro?" Ren finally said. "Are you...?"
"Huh?" Hiro mouthed as looked at Ren. "Sorry. C'mon, let's keep heading to the station."
"It's a shame Isamashi-san couldn't join us," Akechi stated. "He is a single father, so it's understandable he would want to leave early to spend time with his family. Don't you agree, Sae-san?"
Sae hardly paid a word to Akechi as her attention was on the white-colored haired young man walking next to a dark-haired boy in glasses. It was unmistakable it was who she thought it was as she would know that hair color anywhere.
"Sae-san, is something wrong?" Akechi wondered.
"Everything's fine," Sae reassured as faced forward and kept walking. "We'll manage without Aki-san's assistance tonight. Follow me."
"Yes, ma'am," Akechi said as he followed the woman.
[Shujin Academy, Courtyard]
Ann Takamaki was sitting on a bench with her best friend, Shiho Suzui. Shiho is a girl with brown eyes and black hair tied in a ponytail, that's held in place by a pink elastic band, her bangs are parted to her right, also in her hair are two grey hairpins, Shiho's school uniform is without the black jacket and suspenders and wears a beige turtleneck sweater rolled up to her elbows, as well as the standard skirt, on her right leg is a black knee brace worn due to a recent 'accident', and white running shoes with red designs, and white ankle socks.
Ann and Shiho were talking and enjoying each other's company. Though, during their conversation, Shiho's expression became one of gloom.
"I-I haven't been sleeping well lately..." Shiho explained to Ann. "Whenever I close your eyes, I keep thinking about too many things..."
"Shiho..." Ann said downcasting her eyes. She was trying to figure out what to say to her friend to comfort her but she wasn't able to even though she was still scrambling for words in her thoughts.
"Nationals are coming up soon," Shiho mentioned. "So I keep thinking... should someone like me really be on the starting lineup...?" Ann flashes Shiho a confident smile.
"Don't worry," she said. "Just be confident in yourself! Your skills have been recognized! It's all because you work harder than anyone else!" Shiho only turned to face her friend and slowly nodded her head.
"Yeah..." Shiho answered. "Volleyball's all I have, after all..."
"More importantly..." Ann wondered in concern. "Was that injury, OK? It looked really swollen."
"No, it's nothing," Shiho declared. "It's normal... Especially since a meet's coming up..." Ann only exhaled as she couldn't help but stare wordlessly at her best friend. She getting to say more as Yuuki Mishima soon approached them.
"Sorry to interrupt, Suzui," Mishima apologized. "Um... Mr. Kamoshida told me to get you."
"Huh?" Mishima's words seemed to alarm Shiho. "What does he want...?"
"He didn't say..." Mishima uttered Shiho's breath hitched a bit but managed to find her words.
"Ann, I..." Shiho said. Ann was silent herself until she smiled.
"It'll be fine!" Ann claimed. "I bet it's a meeting about the starting lineup or something. Shiho's eyes were still pointed at the ground until she looked at Ann.
"Yeah," she finally smiled even though it was easy to tell it was forced. She stood from the bench with Ann doing so, too. "Well, I better go..."
"Yup. Good luck!" Ann smiled pumping her fist. Shiho gave her a slow nod and began walked off with Mishima following her. "Hang in there, Shiho..." Ann said as she watched her friend walk off. She really wished she had something she could say to make her friend feel better. Ann will still try to be there for her friend, no matter what. Even if her words are only shallow promises that things will get better.
Date: 4/12/20XX
Day: Tuesday
Time of Day: Evening
Weather: Cloudy
Location: Isamashi Residence
Hiro opened the door to his house with a sigh. He smelled something good coming from the kitchen and saw his Dad's shoe's at the front door.
"Dinner's almost ready," Akitoshi announced to Hamuko. "Why don't you give that rest and have some?"
"Okay, I'm almost done anyway," Hamuko said. "Bro isn't back yet, though."
"I'm sure he'll be here soon," Akitoshi mentioned.
"I'm home!" Hiro made himself known to his Dad and sister.
"Oh, speaking of," Akitoshi said as Hiro stepped further in and saw his Dad in the kitchen and Hamuko at the kitchen table with her homework. "Hey, there you are." Akitoshi smiled. "How was your day?"
"It was... fine," Hiro stated. He didn't want to go into detail about everything. Especially what happened in the palace as that wasn't a good topic of conversation.
"Well, go and watch your hands," Akitoshi suggested. "Tonight I decided to make Yakisoba."
"Thanks, Dad," Hiro nodded and looked at Hamuko. "How was school today, kiddo?"
"I had a pretty good day," Hamuko said. "Well, it was just a normal day, that's all."
"That's good," Hiro said as he soon let out a yawn in his hand and stretched his arms above his hand.
"Are you okay, bro?" Hamuko wondered as she got up from her chair. "You look tired?"
"Now that she mentions it, you look pretty exhausted," Akitoshi figured as shut the stove off and approached Hiro. Hiro rose an eyebrow until his Dad placed the back of his hand on Hiro's forehead. "You do seem a bit warm. You're not feeling sick are you?"
"No, not at all," Hiro assured. "I'm fine, though, I am tired. I had a... busy day. Sorry, I can't go into detail."
"I think you should go to sleep early," Hamuko advised as she stepped up to Hiro.
"You think so, huh?" Hiro asked.
"I do," Hamuko stated with a nod. Hiro saw the serious expression ins his younger sister's eyes. She may have been young but she's a smart girl. Hiro was amazed she was able to figure out he was tired just by looking at him. He did feel sluggish and probably anyone could ascertain the tiredness in him.
"Well, if that's the case..." Akitoshi said. "Why don't you eat something first?"
"No, I ate already," Hiro mentioned. "Sorry about that. I had no clue you would be home tonight, Dad."
"Sae suggested I head home for the night and spend time with my family," Akitoshi stated. "Told me she was certain she had all the help she needed tonight."
"Right," Hiro said. "Thanks for the suggestion, Hamuko. I'll go to bed early tonight."
"Okay," Hamuko nodded. "Good." Hiro started trudging up the stairs as he heard Hamuko and his Dad begin talking. "Hey, Dad? Did he look different to you?"
"Different?" Akitoshi questioned. "Not that I've noticed. Why? What did you notice?"
"I can't really put my finger on it," Hamuko said. "He just seemed different."
"Look at you acting like a junior detective," Akitoshi commented. "You wanna help me out on a case?"
"Sorry, Daddy" Hamuko giggled. "I got homework to do."
"Ha, good choice," Akitoshi laughed.
Hiro smirked at the chatter between his father and sister and continued up to his room. As he closed the door, he unceremoniously dumped his bag on the floor, he took off his school jacket and dress shirt and dropped them uncaringly, and crashed face-first onto his bed. He rolled himself onto his back and ran a hand through his hair with a sigh.
Damn, what a strange day, Hiro thought pulling his phone from his pocket. He eyed the screen as he went through his contacts and passed on Makoto's number. He contemplated whether or not he should call or message her. He felt he should apologize for earlier today but decided against it. He was close to hitting the call button but figured it would be best to wait until tomorrow so he could apologize in person. Makoto deserved better considering how he was acting. He hooked his phone on its charger and rested his hands behind his head. Things just seemed t become more complicated. Learning how Kamoshida envisioned the school as a castle and viewing the volleyball team as slaves. Without Ren's words, Hiro wouldn't have awakened to Mordred, his Persona. He's never felt that powerful in his life, it made him feel like he can do anything. Although, the power was probably why he was exhausted. And with time he'll learn more about it. Hiro felt a lot of things were happening and knew it was the only start of whatever else was to transpire.
Okay, this chapter was going to be longer but I chopped it in half. I think after the next chapter I'll be taking a short break off this story to work on other ones. Though I have fun writing for this story, I hope people enjoy reading it.
Reviews...
GreenD109: In this chapter, I showed that Hiro and Mordred will be using Curse skills and physical attacks. Maybe somewhere down the line, he'll obtain Almighty skills.
Clarent excalibur: And I hope you liked it.
PRemingtion900: Glad you noticed that talk Hiro had with his former volleyball teammates. Something I thought my previous story lacked was exposition. That way, we can get into Hiro's head little more to know what he's thinking.
Here's hoping I can pull that more for future chapters too.
ShadowUzumaki55: Yeah, right. Those ungrateful jerks. I hope I delivered well on Hiro's awakening.
ReallyLazyReader: Hey, maybe there is. Unless Kamoshida thinks his spike is like a cannon then that's what I presumed when I saw that student getting shot continuously by that cannon. I kept the same design for Hiro's design for his outfit.
I described that he wore a hooded jacket, he doesn't wear the hood though. It's more for decoration. It kinda resembles the outfits that assassin's wear in Assassin's Creed. His Persona is Mordred, who is a knight, so to me, it made sense to make it look more knightly.
Naruto RWBY: Hiro will apologize to her. I mean, this chapter is shorter than the last one. But if you want longer chapters, later on, I can make that happen.
I want to tell everyone about Hiro's Arcana. Hiro is the Strength Arcana due to his strong will, judging by how long he was able to withstand Kamoshida's abuse until he got tired of all the lying and was able to quit the team when others would not. Persona's of the Strength Arcana are warrior figures and heroes, or figures that embody Strength of body or character. While Mordred is no hero, he is a warrior since he is a knight. He is the thief who stole the Excalibur from his uncle, or in some cases, his father King Arthur.
I've also started an account on an Archive of our own account so people on there could also read it.
Update:
There are some new things here.
What's new here is Hiro's father being at home. I thought it'd be nice if he was home more rather than being at work most of the time.
Hiro's awakening speech change a little bit and as I mentioned about Hiro's appearance for his thief attire, I wanted him to look more like a knight which goes along with the motif of his Persona. His thief outfit looks like Talion's Dark Ranger costume from Middle-Earth: Shadow of Mordor(minus the cloak and tabard with that outfit).
Update 2:
I wasn't feeling Hiro's thief attire so I made some changes to it with a new design which I actually like a lot more than the idea above. This is the last time I change it as I'm feeling this new design for him.
That's all for now.
I'll see you guys next time.
Later!
