Chapter One: Idle thoughts.
Disclaimer: I dont own Persona franchise, or any other that might appear in this story.
A thousand years, a thousand more,
A thousand times a million doors to eternity…
I may have lived a thousand lives, a thousand times
An endless turning stairway climbs
To a tower of souls…
…A train was rumbling.
That simple fact was really getting on my nerves. Fortunately, I am sitting next to the window and can rest my forehead against it. Not used to trains, never had an actual need for them. Add to that me being REALLY unnerved by what's going on...
Long story short, my name is Tenga Shiki. Tenga, while not being overly known last name, is really famous around here. What happened is, after my parents died, main house of Tenga kind of adopted me. Well, I knew my parents were part of a, for a lack of better word, "clan", but getting adopted after their death… That was a surprise. And while it WAS a good surprise, I can't help but be wary. Reasons: I didn't have a choice, apparently head pushed some buttons, I had no idea what kind of people are living there, and… Well, I'd like to see YOU try and be all calm and simple about your life totally changed! At least I don't seem to be a heir… That would be too screwed up.
"Kuwadorian station, in five minutes." Ah, that one is mine. Standing up, I got my bag and went to the doors. Brrrr, what's wrong with me! I am nearly shaking, for Christ's sake!
If it takes another thousand years, a thousand wars,
The towers rise to numberless floors in space
I could shed another million tears, a million breaths,
A million names but only one truth to face…
But damn, the air is good, even with all the factories around here. From what I managed to gather in so little time, town of Kuwadorian was some kind of a mix between big industrial city and small, rural town. Being on par with the name, there are nine statues of birds on edges of the city. Legend says that these birds are spirits of the city, summoned to guard it in exchange for a shelter long time ago. Well, considering that the city was named after them… Who knows what the real story is…
A million roads, a million fears
A million suns, ten million years of uncertainty
I could speak a million lies, a million songs,
A million rights, a million wrongs in this balance of time
City looked… Enchanting, actually. There was something that you just couldn't miss. Atmosphere of fantasy, like your mind is open to voice of collective unconsciousness... Beautiful. I am so going to like that city. Looks like it can be a good retreat not only to birds.
It was very late, nearing midnight. Luckily, mansion was not very far from the station, and I got a map by e-mail. As I was going to the door, I could hear watch inside the house banging out midnight.
Six… Seven… Eight…
Mansion was big, and looked old. I wonder about how old the clan is… Why didn't I look that up, anyway? Ah yes, no info. I wonder why. Anyway, architect had a taste.
Nine… Ten… Eleven…
Lantern on top of the door was on. I guess I am expected. Makes sense. My arm reached out to button…
Twelve.
Only to freeze as door slowly opened by itself.
"Welcome to Tenga mansion, Shiki-sama. We were expecting you." In the light of the lantern I saw a figure, clad in a maid uniform. No, not the French one, you perverts!
But if there was a single truth, a single light
A single thought, a singular touch of grace
Then following this single point , this single flame,
The single haunted memory of your face…
She wore a long brown skirt with red ribbon near the neck, and apron over it. Additionally, black shoes and… That… What is that white thing maids always wear on their heads called? Why do they even wear it? No idea…
When she stepped into the light, I saw her face. She had long brown hair and black eyes, soft but strict face, and piercing stare, one that was actually not intimidating, just looking deeply into you.
"Shirabe-sama will not be able to greet you today, but you are expected to introduce yourself tomorrow morning. You will be informed about your school duties then." Short and to the point. And creepily emotionless. Awww… I don't even know what to call it, adorable or just plain tsundere…
…
I am just plain disturbing.
I took off my shoes, and we started walking through the hallways as she lighted the way with a flashlight. Finally, we arrived to one of the many doors.
"This is your room. Van with your bigger possessions has arrived, and tomorrow they will be delivered here. Do you understand?" She said without turning to me.
It just occurred to me that I didn't say a word since getting off the train. Strange of me.
"I… Thank you." It sounded just like I wanted. Not looking down on her, but mainly acknowledging her. I am not manipulative, just hate giving bad impressions. Whatever works…
"May I know your name?" She WAS a maid, but I felt like I had to. People are people, no?
She looked startled by that, and stared at me questioningly. I made a thin smile. And after a long pause, she finally answered:
"Anya. My name… Is Anya" Hesitation was evident in her voice, like she wasn't permitted to say her name.
"…Thank you" I said again. To say anything more would be… Ignorant to her feelings. Anya clearly didn't want to say anything further.
"Is that all?" She asked, looking uncomfortable. I sighed and nodded slightly.
"Yes. Good night, Anya-san." Nodding in return, she disappeared in darkness. Way to give a good impression... Baka Shiki.
Opening the door, I found a light switch. Hmmm… Not bad.
It was kinda plain, but hey, it is traditional! With the futon and all… Damn, I have no idea what half of these things are called… Anyway. Dropping my bag on the table, I put headphones on it and undressed, crushing down with full intention to sleep. I am so tired…
I still love you…
I still want you…
A thousand times the mysteries unfold themselves
Like galaxies in my head…
Moon was full and bright, lighting down on a gray city, empty of all life. Amongst the silence, there was one lone small figure walking down the street, wearing snow white mantle, with hood covering it's face. It wasn't moving fast, but you could see urgency in it's steps. Finally, it's unmoving target was reached. Reaching out to it, figure whispered:
"I know you are there… Please wake up! What was done to you is unforgivable, but I know the way to undo it! But please, I need you to wake up! Hear me!" And only one tear dropped down on the earth, truly breaking the silence of this empty world…
Author's Note: First chapter, and there are already a couple of questions arising for our hero…
And I wanted to ask: would it be alright if I often chose a song for Shiki to listen, to set the atmosphere, so to speak?
Well then, please review!