Sunday, June 6th

Morgana, for once in his life, woke up in the middle of the night. At first, he was pretty sure the fracture of his night's rest was due to Kasumi and the nightmares—and or pleasant dreams—that had been plaguing his mind since the clean-up—but he was sorely mistaken,

His throat was parched, something that rarely ever happened outside of an intense practice session. Groggily, he slipped from his bed, stealthily slipping into the kitchen for a cup of water. Gulping it down within seconds, he placed the glass into the sink.

With a stretch here and there, Morgana embarked towards his room, until a sight caused him to stop.

There was a shadowy figure in the living room, stiffly sitting straight up as if watching the door itself. Nervousness infected Morgana as he struggled to pull his phone from his pockets.

Shining the flashlight, he was terrified by the sight of Yusuke Kitagawa with his eyes bulging, wide awake.

"GAAGHHH!" Morgana was completely startled, dropping his phone onto the floor as Akira sluggishly burst from his room, almost "drunkenly" slinging into the wall as he came to his younger brother's aid.

Well, he tried as he tripped out his numb leg, falling face-first into the ground. Morgana helped him up as he clung to his brother, "W-What is it? Mona?!"

Morgana picked his phone up, illuminating Yusuke and pointing a finger, "Do you see this shit?!"

Akira squinted his eyes, making out Yusuke's stiff and unnerving eyes, eventually releasing a sigh as he snatched his phone while disabling the flashlight, "Dude…he's just sleeping with his eyes open…"

Mona looked at his older brother, his face rife with confusion, "How the fuck does that even—"

Akira threw him his phone, "Please, for the love of God, just go to bed."

Mona tried to give cries of protest, but he ignored them as he swiftly made it back into his room, locking the door behind him, sighing as he hopped back into bed, "It's even more incredible Yusuke slept through Morgana's yelling…"

A yawn slipped from his lips as he returned to his quill palace, hopefully returning to the domain of sleep. Temporarily escaping from his problems was all the teenage rouge needed.

Such a shame Akira couldn't get it.

It wasn't a situation where his body forced him awake, it was his phone of all things. An alarm notification kept ringing and ringing, despite the multiple times he pressed stop or snooze.

Angrily, he jerked his head from its comfortable resting place and grabbed his phone, subjecting it to being powered off.

"Jesus Christ–" It flashed back on, instantly going to that strange app from the previous weeks. Akira winced from the brilliant flash of light, his retinas on their last legs as he grasped it again, "You have got to be shitting me…"

"Congrats on your ability to outwit an old man who struggles to get it up at night! It only took my intervention and all 110% of your brain capacity! Shame your friendship might be going down the drain thanks to it!

I'm too tired for this shit…

Akira: Seriously, who the hell are you…? And for the love of God, it's five in the mornin

"Ew, you type like Ryuji when you're tired…and you already know who I am…Joker."

Akira sluggishly shot from his bed, his voice a whisper, "Holy shit."

Akira: Alibaba? What the fuck?

Alibaba: Correct! You still suck at Brawlerz and Third Blitz, put in some practice when you aren't moping over some girl or whatever it is you hormone-riddled youth do…"

Akira: How–

Akira: WHY ARE YOU STALKING ME?

Alibaba: Technically, I'm not stalking you.

Alibaba: Technically.

Akira couldn't help but look dumbfounded at his phone, something that was apparently visible to Alibaba.

Alibaba: I can see your face dude. You look like an idiot with your face all scrunched up in the camera.

Akira: Oh for fucks sake im going back to bed.

Akira: when i wake up, im destroying my phone.

Alibaba: Cool, just remember to diversify your porn on your new phone. Your shit is kinda boring.

Akira slung his phone into the wall. As much as he wished it would, he knew it wouldn't break.

"...And I'm truly sorry for everything I did…Yusuke." Madarame bowed to the camera, walking off stage to Hifumi beside him, placing handcuffs over his wrists.

Akira strolled out of his room, putting on his gym uniform, catching the last remnants of the press conference that had Yusuke and Mona enamored.

Enamored described Mona, but Yusuke…was dejected, it seemed. It only made sense, of course.

Grabbing a glass of water, Akira walked to the couch, putting a hand on Yusuke's shoulder. It felt a little weird but…it was quite literally the least he could do.

"It doesn't quite feel real, Kurusu-san."

"You can just call me Akira, after the last couple of weeks, I think we can just drop the honorifics. And…honestly Yusuke, it's expected. You grew up your whole life with the man. Something of this magnitude…it's going to take a while to get used to."

He paused for a moment, giving Akira a brief glance, his expression still the same as before, "I suppose that's true."

Morgana yawned, seemingly still fighting the morning blues, "So…what do you plan on doing now?" Mona paused, "Actually…what do any of us plan on doing? You think the battle's still going to go on?"

Yusuke paused for a moment, seemingly thinking about this for the first time, "Firstly, I would assume they haven't canceled the battle. It's too late to do so. Despite Madarame's controversy, they would keep going in spite of it. And…as for me, I'll just keep pursuing my endeavors. It's the least I can do in spite of everything."

Akira nodded, "Well said Yusuke. That reminds me, I haven't had the chance to formally say it, but sorry for yesterday. We just needed a way to get to the backroom and after the concert, I knew you weren't just going to be friendly about it."

Yusuke sighed, "Consider it water underneath the bridge. You did what you thought was right, even if it was eccentric."

Yusuke Kitagawa calling us eccentric.

Odd.

"I still have a few questions, if you don't mind me asking, Akira."

Akira took a seat in the comforter, shrugging, "Sure, least I owe you."

"How did you know about the backroom and what it possessed? How did you know about Nakanohara and Junko?"

"You already answered your question, Nakanohara-san had…gotten himself into a compromising situation and we…happened to get him out of it. That's all. Afterward, he felt like he owed us so we asked about Madarame since your behavior and some of his set off 10,000 red flags inside of my head."

Yusuke lowered his head, a bittersweet smile forming on his face, "Nakanohara-san…is there a chance you know how to get in contact with him? I would wish to extend my thanks for his help in my childhood and this entire situation."

Akira shook his head, remorse forming on his face, "I'm sorry Yusuke…he told us everything and just disappeared. But…I do know the place he frequents so, maybe I can get lucky there?"

Yusuke nodded, "I truly would appreciate that. But…if you knew I wasn't receptive to you…why didn't you just use Niijima-san? She was already in on your plan, it seems as if you used her as a decoy, plus you got my number from her."

The oldest Kurusu struggled to find a cohesive enough lie, to which Morgana luckily was able to cover for him, "Niijima-senpai and Akira don't…get along. I just asked her for the number. As for her yesterday? Yeah, that was all you actually. She knew nothing about the plan and we just capitalized off of it."

Yusuke quirked an eyebrow, "Huh…if that's the case, why was she following you the first day we met?"

"I…still have no idea, Yusuke."

"Odd."

Mona snickered, "Tell me about it.

Akira felt a vibration from his back pocket, setting a text from Sojiro.

Old Man Soji: What the hell did you do?

Old Man Soji: I thought I told you to wait, kid.

Akira: I did. It was Yusuke who managed to get Madarame to feel guilty enough to confess…so I did wait.

I mean, I'm not wrong.

Old Man Soji:...In any case, get your ass over here, the buses should be coming in like thirty minutes.

Another text came up, this time from Alibaba.

Alibaba: You are a very shitty liar, even over texts. That is amazing.

Akira: How the hell are you still up?!

Who even is this…it has to be someone I know, righ–

Igor?

The Twins?

…I gotta call that long-nosed bastard once I get out of the battle.

Akira: You know what, we can do this later, I got shit to do.

Alibaba: Have fun beating a band without their band director. Ohso time-consuming.

Akira gritted his teeth as he turned his phone off, "Yusuke? We're about to leave for Shujin, you got any idea what you're going to do for the day?"

Yusuke rose from his makeshift bed, yawning as he stretched, "Simple, I'm going to accompany you three throughout the day."

Akira nodded and walked towards the door, clearly not having Yusuke's words register until a moment later, "Wa–you're what?!"

Ohya had been knocking on Makoto's door for what seemed like hours–although it had only been three minutes. Finally, the Student Council President opened her apartment door, her face laced with overpowering disdain that was oddly amplified by her Buchimaru sleeping cap, "What in the world do you want, Ichika-kun."

Despite the sheer anger on Makoto's face, it seemed she barely got any sleep if the lines underneath her eyes were an indicator.

Ohya briefly paused, pondering if it was a good idea to relay this information and if she was really seeing the Ice Queen of Shujin Academy with Buchimaru paraphernalia. Following her instincts, she took a breath, "I have some important news."

Makoto sighed, "If it's about Madarame, I already saw." She tried to close the door, but Ohya placed her foot in the frame—somehow ignoring the pain.

"Nah, that's not it. It's about your cousin." Makoto's eyes were laced with energy upon the mention of Hifumi.

Yusuke wasn't lying when he said he would accompany the Kurusu brothers all throughout the day. Something that the three of them quickly caught onto as he stuck to them in the bandroom, as if he was glued to their figurative sides.

A sight that confused Shujin's band members to no end.

As everyone prepared, Morgana took a seat by his brother, his voice a whisper to avoid Yusuke–or anyone nosy enough– "Can we talk? About last night?"

Akira snorted, "You mean the fact you got scared by Yusuke Kitagawa sleeping?" Mona glared at his brother, his gaze serious, eliciting a heavy sigh from the older Kurusu. Maybe he shouldn't have told Morgana.

No.

We're not doing that anymore, okay?

Akira slightly bit his lip as he spoke, "Okay. Hifumi…knows some form of what happened in Kyoto…she used that information to uh…force me into a hole. If I'm not a "good" kid then she'll ruin me." He gave a huff of humor, "She also said if Niijima-san's ever involved in anything revolving around us then she'll…ruin everyone. You…Ryuji, Ann…mom, Hotaru, Sojiro…"

Mona paused, a reaction struggling to form.

The lack of one was slowly starting to prove to Akira that he shouldn't have said anything.

It was stupid and–

Morgana placed a warm hand on his shoulder, a faint smile on his face, "It's alright man. All we can do is just that, be normal kids."

Akira gazed at his brother, his expression being one of faint shock.

He didn't know what he expected but…it certainly wasn't this.

Before he could do anything, Yusuke tapped Akira on the shoulder, "Akira? Where's the restroom?"

"Oh, just go down the hall right there and take a left." Yusuke bowed as he walked off, giving Ryuji a chance to talk to his best friend.

"So…what's Kitagawa doing here?"

Akira, for a second, forgot that Ryuji didn't stay over.

As much as I hate to say it, I kinda got used to it…

"Not that long after you guys left, he decided to stay over. Hifumi gave him my address."

Ryuji tilted his head, "Ain't he supposed to be playing with Kosei today?"

Mona chimed in, "Yeah, but you can imagine why he doesn't want to."

Akira nodded, "He deserves a break, so I'm not sweating it, you know?"

"True…true. So, we still on for ramen today or—"

"Nope."

"What?! But you–"

"I have a rendezvous with Haru Okumura afterwards, so we'll have to raincheck that."

"B-But bros before ho—"

"Don't you dare call Haru that."

"Sorry."

Akira snorted, "Next time man, next time."

Soon enough, the buses came and the students filled the seats with ease. Yusuke stuffed himself into a seat on the charter buses with Ann and Ryuji.

Luckily, Akira snagged a seat with Sojiro at the front of the bus, right across from his brother.

As the buses finished loading up, Sojiro began speaking for the first time, "So…what's the deal with Kitagawa being here…? Why did he show up with you when–" Sojiro pursed his lip, giving Akira a look of intense scrutiny, "Kid…"

Akira sighed as he slouched into the seat, "Sojiro…like I said, we didn't do anything. Yusuke got Madarame to confess and he came to us and slept over." Akira gave Yusuke a brief gaze as he returned to his guardian, "He's been through a lot so…just let him relax for this moment, okay?"

Sojiro sighed, "Fine. But kid…do you just forget your pops and mother entrusted you two to me? Kinda hard to keep you guys safe when you're seeking out trouble everyday." Sojiro's eyes drifted a bit, "It sucks knowing you can't protect anyone."

Damn it Akira…be aware.

He sighed as well, "Right…uh, sorry, Sojiro. With that being said, things will be normal from now on. Like I said, I couldn't turn a blindeye on this."

A snicker came from him, "Well, as long as you think what you did was right. And, I think things around here could use a bit of normalcy."

Akira nodded, his statement hitting hard than he could ever know, "I think if I could drink, we could toast to that." He briefly paused as an idea formed in his head, "Hey, uh, I just wanted to say thanks for what you said in the bandroom. I uh…I needed that."

As expected, Sojiro waved off the praise, "Don't mention it. Least I could do. Can't have my section leader constantly playing like crap."

"Ha, ha, you're so funny."

"So, one day I assume you'll tell me how you pulled this off?"

"One day."

"Oh, right that reminds me, did you ever come up with a name for the band or have you been bullshitting?"

Akira's face went flat as he struggled to come up with something, until a smile formed, "Oh, I got something."

Makoto placed two cups of coffee on the table in the center of her room, one for Ohya and another for herself. Taking a sip from her cup she sighed, "So…what, you're telling me Akira threatened my cousin with me?"

Ohya nodded, "Yeah…I guess he did it back during the Kamoshida incident to get her off his back which worked…"

"Until now." She quirked an eyebrow, "I assume there's more?"

Once again, she nodded, "She...then decided to threaten Akira…telling himto stay out of trouble and stop messing with you or else she'll...make things bad for him...well, everyone. Crazy thing, it worked. I don't think I've ever heard Akira be completely quiet…"

Makoto instantly stopped taking a sip, "What did she say?"

Whatever Hifumi said…I could use against him as well…

I know I can't just ask her after the…conversation we had last night over the phone.

Ohya paused, seemingly uncomfortable, "I…um…I didn't hear. I-I didn't hear everything."

"If you heard her tell them to leave me alone and stay out of my life, how didn't you hear anything?" She sat up straight in her chair, "Don't lie to me, Ohya. Whatever this is…it could be useful. Even helpful for Ryuji if Akira was to get out of line."

Ohya paused, considering her next move when a sigh slid from her mouth, "Truthfully…I didn't hear too much. She was whispering but I heard something about Akira assaulting a teacher."

Damn it, Ohya.

Language.

"Do you think you can find out more? Something like the Sakura file?"

"Niijima-senpai–"

"Ichika-kun. It's for Ryuji's safety. That's important to you, right?"

"Fine…I can try. I think I can ask my cousin in Kyoto if she knows anything but god knows how long it's been since me and her talked. And…Niijima-senpai, if I am able to make this work…only use this if Akira does…something. Something bad."

She, as expected, nodded cautiously, "Fine."

"But, since I was able to give you something, does this mean you'll finally help me with Kayo?" Makoto opened her mouth to say something, but Ohya shut her down, "Don't give me some bullshit about timing and matters at hand. Be for real."

She sighed, knowing the amateur reporter at the end of the day was right. As much as it pained her, "Yes, I'll actually help. But it won't be until Friday."

"Wha–"

"I have to finish organizing everything about the Shujin Fair for the end of the month, and then on Wednesday and Thursday, you second-years have the TV Studio trip, remember? Doesn't really allot as much time as you think for us to ask faculty and the student body at large."

Ohya slowly nodded, "Smart…"

"I have my moments."

Mistress Reporter: Ryuji?

Ryuji: Oh!

Ryuji: Hey!

Mistress Reporter: Sorry about…ghosting.

Ryuji: It's all good, kinda deserve it lmao

Mistress Reporter: Can…we talk?

Ryuji: Oof, that ain't a good sign

Mistress Reporter: It isn't anything about us…it's about something else.

Despite everything with Madarame, there still seemed to be an impressive turnout at the Tokyo Dome. Honestly, it wasn't surprising, sadly.

Akira mumbled under his breath as he peeked at the crowd beyond the front door near the concession stand on the first floor, "All publicity is good publicity is true, I guess…"

A finger tapped against Akira's back, jolting him to life as he turned around to see Morgana, "Come on, Mona! You can't just scare me like that after the last couple of days!"

Mona flatly stared at his brother and ignored his statement, "Can I ask a question?"

Akira's face went flat as he frowned, grumbling all the while, "Go ahead."

An inquisitive gaze morphed into the younger Kurusu's face, "…how do you think Hifumi found out? I thought part of the deal was that allof us would keep it a secret though?"

Akira shook his head, trying to suppress memories long passed, "I don't know. Shido's a snake, so I'm not surprised or concerned," He gave pause, "...just hate that my reputation at home is even deeper in the gutter probably." Akira shook his head once more, dispelling the ideas plaguing the both of them, "What matters now though is the battle we're about to have…if…Kosei even shows up."

Morgana snapped his fingers, "Crap, that reminds me, uh…Mishima apparently wanted to speak to you, I think he wanted advice on something?"

The food stand finally gave Akira his hot dog as he groaned, "Oh come on…I don't wanna talk to him now…"

Mona snickered, "Your drum major commands it."

Akira faked a laugh in his direction as he flipped him off, making his way backstage to find Yusuke…posing with Mishima, trying to recreate the Creation of Adam it seemed. As Akira took a final bite of his hot dog, he grumbled, "What in the west hell are you two doing?"

Mishima erratically shot from the ground, since he was mimicking Adam, "O-Oh! Kurusu-san! I–uh…"

"I was just imparting upon him the kinetic release one may experience when attempting to mimic the beauty of God." His emotionless face turned into a frown as he turned back to Mishima, "Though…it seems to fail with his cooperation."

A dumbfounded expression formed, "What in the west hell are you–" Akira rolled his eyes as he directed his attention back to Mishima, "What did you need, man?"

"Oh! Right!" He got closer to Akira, his voice a whisper, "I had two things I wanted to ask…since I haven't seen you since that night…"

"Ha…yeah…right. I think it might be better if you just left it in the pa—"

"Um, are you okay? I didn't want to leave you, it's just that Sakamoto-san grabbed me and pulled me down the stairs. Though I guess you are fine since you're here now…I-I guess that leads to my next question…could you just forget about what I said about me and my…special friend…? And the…secret I told?"

"Huh? Dude, what are you ta–"

MISHMA'S A EUNCH

HE'S BANGING–WELL, BANGING IS A STRETCH—SOMEONE NAMED NOYAM—

His eyes widened to the size of basketballs, ironically, "HOLY SHIT YOU'RE SLEEPING WITH YUU–" Akira felt Mishima's disgustingly moist hands wrap around his mouth, somehow stopping Akira from revealing probably the biggest secret Shujin had to offer besides his own adventures.

He wrenched himself from Mishima's grasp, lowering his voice not because he wanted to keep Mishima's escapades a secret, but simply because he was slowly starting to maybe see Mishima as a human being that could be alright...?

Nah.

I still see him like a pitbull.

"Dude, you're smashing Yuujiro's mom?!"

"S-Smashing isn't the proper descriptor…remember…?"

Akira briefly looked down, a pang of pity hitting him.

Sheesh.

Never mind, I see him as a partial human being now.

"I would love to ask, but I don't think now is the appropriate time."

"I…don't think there's ever going to be a proper time to ask about my testicles being smashed into smithereens by a handgun as a sacrifice to an all-powerful door, Kurusu-kun."

Akira's face simply went blank as he initially didn't register anything Mishima just said.

Then, akin to a baby discovering they have teeth, his eyes went wide in sheer disbelief, "Excuse me, what?"

Mishima completely bypassed Akira's confusion, "Can you just keep that a secret? Please? I know you don't owe me anything but–"

"As I tried to say earlier, I just wanna put that night behind me."

"Agreed."

Akira sighed as he straightened up, "So–"

Mishima pulled out his phone, "That reminds me, I created a Shujitter for the band…I didn't know what to name us since Sakura-sensei said you were gonna come up with another name for us so…did you come up with one?"

"Oh, right, yeah I did." He typed it in, "Here you go."

Mishima took a second to look at the name, "Interesting…I kinda like it."

"I have my moments."

Sojiro walked backstage, a piece of paper in hand, "Uh, Kosei's here…apparently? So, they want you guys to line up on stage in a four-man formation. Chop, chop."

As the two set off for the front of the stage, Akira paused as he realized Yusuke was simply in the same place. No movement, nothing, Not even a new expression.

"Yusuke? You okay?"

He faltered before nodding, "Yeah, I'm uh…I'm perfectly fine. At the moment, I'd rather prefer the comfort of backstage than being in the public eye or my classmates' eyes."

Yeah…I know that feeling.

Akira simply nodded as he went beyond the curtain, being greeted with the sight of a seat of eager patrons…a sight he last saw in December.

A strange sense of catharsis and…intangible dread filled Akira. With each step he took, nervousness and dread seemed to leak into his feet, as if it was bags of sand sown to his soles.

Being on the front lines? In front of lights that shun upon him so bright? After this long? After what transpired from December to June? It felt like too much.

It felt undeserving.

It felt as if he was a fraud, undeserving of anything relating to this art form he loved so dearly yet defiled with his impartiality.

The lights were simply too bright. Bright enough to eradicate the pitch-black stain that took the form of Akira Kurusu.

And he was so close to fading from the brilliance until his eyes wondered a bit.

Eventually picking up on Sojiro Sakura at first…his words about Shujin being different from Tachibana reverberated in his brain but…it didn't feel like enough.

It wasn't enough.

Until his eyes came across Haru Okumura, in the front row with the most dazzling smile that could energize the sun if need be.

"I think you're a good person, too. I…I hope that means something to you."

Ah.

That's right.

Someone believes in me.

The potential of what I can be.

Of who I am; a person trying to do good.

Yeah.

C'mon Akira.

A grin to match hers formed on his face as he got in the trumpet line at the front.

Yuya Beesho, the absolute weirdo with the bulging eyes who stared at Ann during the meeting, strolled to the front of the stage with a mic in hand, "Yuya Beesho clears his throat while ruffling inside of his pocket, branding eyedrops as he placed droplets into his eyes. Clearing his throat in the process; Despite what's being going on with our instructor and band director, we as a group decided to still come out. In spite of our school's wishes. Simply because we wanted to show that we are still a strong force to be reckoned with and to put on a good show for everyone." Yuya bowed as he returned to Kosei's line-up.

Huh.

That…wasn't too bad.

The announcer of the event finally started, a smile clearly on his face from his tone, "Alright folks! Today, we have two historic bands who have a clear hatred of each other! Despite their own numerous controversies, they've resolved to duke it out today no matter what! A battle of the bands that throws away everything outside of this dome and focuses on purely being an entertaining high-stakes battle of musical wit and excellence! Getttttttttt ready for the debut of Kosei High's Marching Peacocks and Shujin Academy's new and improved, Marching Phantoms!"

God, I'm such a genius for that name.

The two bands walked backstage together, their battle concluded. The judges already declaring their winner, Shujin Academy. It wasn't as easy as a battle as some people may think since—despite Madarame's situation—Kosei held firm to their declaration. They stood strong and played their hearts out. A feat that caused Akira and Sojiro to congratulate Kosei's band council.

As they walked away, Akira noticed that Yusuke was still in the corner, by himself.

"Yusuke? You not gonna say anything to them?"

Yusuke waved a hand, "What is there to say? I…I have nothing. Furthermore, I can be seen as a reminder of their suffering, so...I think it would be best not to."

Akira nodded, "I…I see."

Behind Akira came Tetsuo, giving his section leader a hug, "Kurusu-senpai! You were amazing out there! You gotta teach me one-on-one sometime!"

Akira chuckled, "Ah…I don't know about that, but you were great. I can't believe you tried telling me last week you thought you were bad."

Yusuke spoke up, "I would like to say the both of you did a swell job."

"Thanks, Yusuke."

I didn't even scream or anything…I really am rusty.

Then again, screaming isn't everything to a trumpet player so…

"Listen up kids! The buses are lined right outside!"

Jesus, that was quick…

A face of realization formed on Akira's face. He hadn't seen Haru at all this entire time since the battle ended, and now they were on their way to leave.

He hobbled over to Sojiro, "Hey, uh…do you mind if I stay?"

The guardian quirked an eyebrow, "Why? Something wrong?"

"No, no, nothing like that, I just have someone I need to talk to. That's all."

Sojiro eyed him suspiciously, but gave the kid a pat on the back, "Just don't get into trouble. If you can't avoid it, just make sure it isn't on national news or something…" He faded into the crowd of teenagers as they all flooded out of the Dome, leaving Akira searching around for Haru.

Which actually wasn't that long since he came across her at the base of the stage.

Upon her seeing him, her face lit up with a smile, "Aki-chan! You were great up there!" Haru gave him an embrace as he nervously chuckled, her praise making him feel hotter on the inside.

He rubbed his nape, "I mean…maybe I did a little something. Are you ready to go eat now?"

A stomach began to growl, something Akira initially attributed to Haru but was soon corrected as he saw Yusuke come from behind, rubbing his stomach, "I do think food is in order, Akira…I haven't eaten in…two days at this point."

Akira looked at Yusuke perplexed, "Uh…why aren't you on the bus?"

"I said I would shadow you for the entirety of today, remember?"

"Oh…" Akira looked at Haru, regret filling his eyes as she playfully shrugged.

Akira sighed, Igor's phone going straight to voicemail for the fifth time in a row.

Okay…that's not working.

Maybe the twins then?

Akira dialed Caroline and Justine, their phones likewise going to voicemail.

A groan slipped out of his mouth as he thought about dialing Lavenza, but before he could get the chance, Haru cleared her throat, "Akira?"

Her voice ripped his attention away from his phone, gazing at Haru sitting across from him in the booth, "Hm?"

"I said, how has everything been this week?"

Pocketing his phone, Akira briefly glanced at Yusuke beside him, "Eventful, to say the least."

She turned her attention from him, instead to their unexpected guest, "And how have you been feeling this morning, Kitagawa-kun?"

Yusuke glanced at Haru, seemingly not expecting to be acknowledged in the conversation, "O-Oh, well…this morning has been one of difficulty, Okumura-san."

Akira shifted uncomfortably as Haru briefly glanced at him before moving her attention back to Yusuke, "I can imagine, and please, just call me Haru. You're a friend of ours now so…no need for honorifics."

He nodded, "In any case, as I told Akira this morning, I simply need to have the right attitude and strive towards my advancement in my craft."

Haru smiled, "That's wonderful to hear, Yusuke. If there's anything I can do, please let me know."

Akira replied with a smile as he nudged Yusuke in the rib, "Trust me, Haru's the best at helping people out. Even in the littlest of ways."

The heiress nervously smiled, a hint of pink on her face.

Makoto: Kitagawa-kun? How are you feeling today?

Yusuke: I'm okay. Strange feelings of course, but I'm okay.

Makoto: That's good to hear…but I had a strange question if you don't mind me asking.

Yusuke: I'm eating at the moment, but sure, what's on your mind?

Makoto: How exactly did Kurusu-kun know I was there? I assume you told him I was coming on Friday?

Yusuke: I was wondering that myself…I forgot to ask him about it. But no, I didn't have any role in that. Perhaps you know?

As Makoto closed the door on Ohya, bidding her a lazy farewell as she focused on her phone, a thought formed in her head. A concerning one that had many lasting implications she hated to ponder over.

Akira gave Haru a hug as she entered her family car, being escorted back home as Akira and Yusuke returned to the busy streets that Shibuya always presented.

For a while, the two simply walked in silence, something that was partially uncomfortable for Akira but he simply ignored it as they made it back to the apartment.

Akira flatly turned to Yusuke as they stood in the lobby, "Uh…dude, what's…what's going on? Aren't you going to go home?"

Yusuke paused as a sigh slipped from his lips, "I…remember how you said I could stay for as long as I needed? Were you being serious about it? Or were you simply lying to make yourself feel morally sound?"

Yesn't.

Akira nodded, "Ah…I get it. But, doesn't Kosei have dorms?"

"Yes…but—"

"It's the same reasoning as before, huh?"

You don't want to show your face because you can't handle the guilt of being apart of it. Of cultivating it…even if it wasn't your intention.

Akira sighed as he placed a soft hand on Yusuke's shoulder, a warm—albeit partially forced—smile spreading on his face, "I wasn't bullshitting, Yusuke. Stay for however long you need. I got you."

A brief smile formed on his face, "I thank you for your kindness, Akira."

Monday, June 7th

Akira poked his head into the apartment one last time before the siblings left for Shujin, checking in on Yusuke, "You sure you're gonna be okay with going to school? I…I won't blame you if you don't go to Kosei."

Yusuke was slowly constructing a bowl of cereal, "I'm perfectly fine, Akira. I appreciate your concern, truly, but it's unwarranted."

Akira slowly nodded, "Okay…well, remember to call me or Morgana if you need anything, I'm pretty sure I can get Sojiro to let me or him out early if anything came up." He paused as he truly started to think about it, "I think."

Yusuke chuckled, bringing some faint emotion to his blank face, a sight that Akira was slowly wishing to see more and more, "I don't think that'll be needed, but again, it's much appreciated. You two should be getting to Shujin, though. I don't wish for you two to be late on my behalf."

Akira was close to closing the door but quickly turned back around, "Do you have—"

"Yen for the subway? Yes."

Morgana's voice was heard at the end of the hall, "Come on Akira! We're gonna be late dude!"

Akira rolled his eyes as he looked at Yusuke one last time, "Just…have a good day."

Yusuke nodded as Akira closed the door behind him. A long-held sigh finally released from his lips as he looked longingly out of the windows.

Tora poked his head into the room, greeted by the sight of Makoto diligently typing away at her laptop, "Niijima-san? You wanted to see me?"

Makoto raised her head, "Ah, Toranosuke-san…come in."

Tora quirked an eyebrow, "Toranosuke…? Aren't we a little past hard-down honorifics, Makoto?"

She looked at him, her gaze harsh until it broke as she sighed, her eyes closed as she shut her laptop and stood up at the front of the table. She rubbed the bridge of her nose, irritation, and sluggishness rampant in her movements.

Makoto took a deep breath before she opened them again, her eyes laced with her famous Niijima stare that terrified the most stoic of men. A sight that Tora hadn't been the victim of since their first year. As much as he hated where this could go, he knew what he had signed up for by giving Akira information. A price he was more than willing to pay since news of Madarame broke.

"I would say yes, but…how can I let my guard down around someone who fed a delinquent information on me?"

Tora took a moment to prepare himself, seeing how to approach this in the best way. In his mind, this was a debate. Something that was common in his life and his future.

He just needed to view the best approach to bring Makoto to his side. For her to be reasoned with.

Makoto was a rational person, he knew that all too well, so he just needed to appeal and—

Her face scrunched up as she almost nipped at him, "Wipe that condescending ponderous look off your face, Toranosuke." She gave pause as her eyes examined every visible portion of his face, trying to gauge his next move, "Tell me why you thought it was worthwhile to delude yourself with the likes of Akira Kurusu."

For once, Tora's face melded with visible confusion, "Makoto—"

"Niijima-san."

Tora grimaced, "Niijima-san…it was worth it because of everything surrounding Madarame. How could I just let a friend simply just…be around Yusuke when something awful coul—"

She snapped at him, "Don't you dare give me that false pretense of protection! You wanted to protect me so bad? To look out for me?! You could've just simply told me the second Kurusu-kun told you! The second I got off the phone instead of giving quips at the table at Shiro's expense! But no, you decided to entrust my…safety to some stranger and go behind my back, making a mockery of myself!" She balled up her fists, pausing as she mumbled, "Proving him right…"

Tora paused, questioning the validity of her statements, "Okay. Okay. If I would've told you, would you have believed me?"

"Of course—"

"Why would you have believed me instead of Akira? Or Mona? Or Ryuji? What's so different between me and them? Societal perspective? Likeability?"

"You are—" She bit her tongue, "You were trustworthy. A friend. But them…they're just—"

"They're nothing, Makoto. No different from me and you. And besides, if I had told you…what would you have done? Your normal diplomatic and lethargic ways of doing things wouldn't have worked in a sensitive situation such as Yusuke's."

"But the idiotic bumbling ways of the Kurusus works instead?"

"It's not pretty…nor how I would've done things, but…that's life. You can't just work through everything by yourself, thinking everything has to solely bend to your will. Sometimes you have to trust people…and I think after Kamoshida, I can trust them."

Makoto gritted her teeth as her gaze intensified tenfold, "If that's the case…and you truly think nothing separates you from them…then fine. Enjoy the sanctity of your trust while you convene with them." She faltered, almost pondering her next words, "You're removed from your role as Vice President. Effective immediately."

Tora opened his mouth to object but paused, gritting his teeth as he bitterly swallowed the pill.

He knew Makoto all too well.

She wasn't going to change her mind.

Especially in this erratic state of hers.

Tora sighed, grabbing the VP pin from his uniform jacket and gently placing it on the table. He gave a bow to Makoto before going for the door, turning to his former partner one last time, "I hope one day you're able to realize you can't do everything on your own."

He closed the door behind him, leaving the Student Council President by herself.

A sight she was all too familiar with.

Akira examined his phone as they walked into Shujin, his messages with Ryuji still left on delivered.

"Hey, has Ryuji replied to your messages?"

Morgana snickered, "You're acting as if I talk to that idiot on a regular basis." Akira shot a glare, "Okay, okay. I haven't texted him in a couple of days but yesterday, after the performance, he was acting a little…weird."

Climbing the stairs, Akira snickered, "When is Ryuji not weird? Hell, when are any of us normal?"

Mona's face scrunched up in faint disgust, "Don't you dare include me in that bullshit."

"You're a Kurusu, you were doomed from the start," A grunt of effort slipped from his lips as they clipped another set of stairs, an eyebrow raised, "but weird how?"

He shrugged, "I'm not sure…just seemed kind of distant. He was quiet on the ride back home, I don't think I even heard him say anything idiotic to Ann either."

They stopped in front of Mona's classroom, intrigue fresh on the elder's face, "Even Ann?" Mona nodded, "Hm…maybe I should ask her if she knows what's up with him."

Once again, Mona nodded but stopped his brother before he left for his class below, "Hey, uh…speaking of Ann… considering what Hifumi told you, you think you should tell them? Just to be safe?" There was a jumble of emotions on Akira's face as he opened his mouth, but Morgana already knew where he was going and groaned, "Come on Akira…haven't we been through enough for you to realize trusting people and telling the tr–"

"Yeah, yeah, I know. I just don't want to instill panic just yet…and besides, I think Ryuji takes more precedence at the moment. Just trust me, alright?"

Akira walked off, leaving his brother to groan in annoyance.

Ann looked over her shoulder to see Akira's slouching form. He had been dozing off in Kawakami's class, a sort of way to ignore the memories of the last time he had seen her. Something that Akira was starting to see the benefits of–and why Ryuji Sakamoto was the biggest advocate.

The bell rang, signifying Kawakami's time as coming to an end for the rest of the day–and waking Akira.

A slight yawn came from his lips as he met Ann's gaze, "Seems like you had a good rest."

He partially flicked his eyes towards Kawakami, "Very." He paused, remembering Mona's words, "Ann?"

She hummed, as she packed her supplies into her bag, "Hm? What's up?"

"Uh…Mona told me Ryuji was acting a bit weird. I tried texting him but he hasn't replied to me."

She snorted, "What level of weird are we talking about? Yesterday weird or how quiet you two were after you came from Madarame's shack?"

Akira bit his tongue, he hated how perceptive she could be at times.

She continued, "Even weirder considering Hifumi just…magically appeared at your door without any explanation and you came back looking like you were going to shit your pants."

Before Akira could say anything in his failing defense, Kawakami's voice rang out, "Kurusu-kun?" Kawakami's voice gave him pause as he stood up from his desk, "Do you mind if we speak for a second?" Embarrassment was rife on her face, something the two of them shared.

I…

"I uh…should get going to detention, Kawakami-sensei."

Akira hurried out of the classroom before Kawakami could even object, leaving her and Ann to disappointedly look at each other, "I'll go get him, he's been acting weird."

As Akira rushed out of his classroom, he was met with the terrifying sight of one Saya Nagase.

OH YOU HAVE GOT TO BE FUCKING KIDDIN—

"Saya! Hey! Why–how did you f—I mean, funny meeting you here…in front of my homeroom… after school."

We're in school man.

You're a fucking idiot.

Ah yes, I've returned to my rightful place as the Fuck Meister.

"Hey, Akira." Her voice was deadpan and devoid of energy, "Why…haven't you been answering my calls?"

Right to the point…I can't be surprised since I know how…pointed she can be.

"I uh…uh," He caught sight of Ann coming out of the classroom, and immediately grabbed her arm, "Sorry Saya, I…have to help Ann really quickly before I go to detention, really tight schedule!"

Akira and a confused Ann scurried off, with Saya as dejected as ever.

"You're such an ass for using me to do that…"

"I know…I know…"

"You do know you can't avoid her forever, right?"

"Yes."

"So…?"

"So?"

"When are you going to tell her that you clearly have something going on with Haru?"

"I don't have anything going on with Haru. Can you guys stop saying that and listening to the rumor mill? Next thing I know Makoto's probably gonna get on my ass about it like he did Mona and Kasumi…"

"Only if you tell me what's going on with you…it's weird, you're being quieter than usual…then Ryuji's seemingly avoiding us?"

Akira's eyes darkened for a moment, "It's just…" His eyes were elsewhere as they walked through the courtyard, slowly making their way to the practice building. His consistent inability to stare her in the eye was frustrating as she stopped them in the middle of the walkway, "Akira. Look at me."

He sighed as he fell to her will, "Time for another one of those rare Ann Takamaki talks?"

"Sure, but no cursing this time. Maybe. Anyway, c'mon and tell me."

"I'm not going to lie to you, Ann. It's just…a lot, okay? I don't want to say anything if I can solve it…or if it's nothing. Not worth panicking."

She frowned, "Doing that loner shit again, huh?"

"No, not really." He paused for a beat, "How weird was Ryuji yesterday?"

She sighed, finally giving up for the moment, "He was fine before we got on the bus. He got a text and after that…he just went silent…I haven't seen him that hyperfocused in years."

An eyebrow rose, "Did you see who it was from? His mom? Ohya? Maybe even his dad?"

Ann snorted at the last suggestion, "Ryuji's old man hasn't talked to him since he left. I doubt he even remembers he exists."

A bitter chuckle came from Akira's lips, "If he's upset, it could be something like that. Anything is possible with deadbeat fathers and their guilt."

Ann's face scrunched with faint confusion, "In any case…no, I don't think it was his dad. I'll just try to talk to him in practice." Ann puffed out her chest, "Ryuji can never ignore me!"

Akira chuckled, "If that's the lie you want to tell yourself."

She frowned before a wry grin formed on her face, "In any case, you should get to detention…have fun with the discipline coach."

"W-We have a what?" Ann kept walking away, "Ann?!"

Unbeknownst to Akira, Ren walked up beside him, "Is yelling all you do? Jesus Christ."

Akira rolled his eyes at the volleyball captain, "Great…I get to see you early…yay…"

"Yeah, yeah, get a move on. I don't want this discipline coach to get off on me because you came late."

"You literally just got into the courtyard, I don't think you can talk shit in any capacity, Ren."

Ren took a page from Akira's book as he rolled his eyes, "It's Amamiya, Lapdog."

Akira cracked a smile as he held open the door for the practice building, "Considering I knocked you flat on your ass last Monday, I think I have the free reign to call you whatever I want…Renny."

Ren almost jumped at Akira but he remembered the deal their instructors broke, a source of frustration that filled the both of them.

Though mainly Ren in this case since Akira's mastery of pushing buttons never failed him.

Oh, this is going to be so fun.

The two proceeded to the very end of the hall, a decrepit classroom greeting them. They looked at each other, "Did…did you get the right place, Renny?"

"Sh–" He bit his tongue as he glanced at his phone, "...yeah, this is the right place."

"Huh…you wanna open the door or…?"

Ren rolled his eyes as he slid the door open, being greeted by a dark and dingy room that had no lights and only three desks.

One with Akira's name marked on it, and another with Ren's name.

The third desk was at the front of the room, with a sleeping teacher slouched in his chair, his feet kicked up on the surface of the desk. His face was completely obscured by a baseball cap.

Huh.

Is that shit actually comfortable?

Renny tilted his head, "You think he's sleeping or something?"

"I don't really know and to be honest…I kinda don't wanna find out. Let's just sit in the desks man."

Ren snorted, getting closer to the teacher and examining him, "As if, he's completely passed out. I'm leaving." The second Ren mentioned anything about leaving, the teacher's hand snapped from over his chest, a ruler in hand as he smacked Ren's wrist, causing the boy to scream in pain, "W-What the hell?!"

The man removed his baseball cap, a devilish grin forming with his disgustingly potent bucktooth teeth, "Attempting to leave detention and profanity…already new additions to your lengthy rulings."

Wait.

Wait what?

"R-Rulings? Plural? There's no way—"

He pointed the ruler towards Akira, "Speaking out of turn when you aren't being asked andyou aren't sitting at your assigned desk…" He placed the ruler down as he took out a lighter, lighting two candles on his desk as he checked his watch, "And to make matters worse…you two are officially late to Morooka's discipline session." His grin grew larger as he took a hearty sniff, "It seems today is going to be one for the history books." He slapped his palms onto the desk, scaring both boys, "Now it's time for the hunt."

Oh…

Crap.

"Kobayakawa-sensei? You requested me?" Makoto closed the door behind her, stiffly standing before his desk.

Kobayakawa wiped his mouth with a handkerchief, ending his rather larger afternoon snack that consisted of three plates of sushi, "Ah, Niijima-san, lock the door behind you, please." Makoto heeded his request as he continued, "I trust you've seen the news, correct?"

"If it's…regarding the actions of Madarame, then…yes, yes I have."

Kobayakawa nodded, "Good, then you can assume why I've called you here."

"Regarding Akira Kurusu and the Marching Phantoms, correct?"

He nodded once more, "Always such a quick-witted girl. Just like your sister before you. I bring them up because I don't like the amount of controversy that seems to…garner around them and Kurusu-kun in general. From the nasty rumors regarding his record and past, to his encounters with Suguru when he was a freshly minted transfer, to his…guardian appearing, to his squabbles with the various athletic clubs and that incident at the park, and even this whole business with Madarame…it's unbecoming that Shujin keeps being at the center of this attention. It's counterintuitive to what I want Shujin to be. What it willbe in due time. I know that you share the same vision of Shujin's bright future as well."

Makoto slowly nodded her head, "I see sir…but what exactly are you asking?"

He laid a hand out on the desk, almost laying out a path of expectations, "I think we…should revisit a prospective idea you had brought forth before…donors told me otherwise."

"The closing of the program?"

He gave a singular nod, "Correct. I think that…it truly wasn't worth it. Too much negativity as opposed to the good I was coaxed into believing."

Money wasn't enough, was it?

"Sir if that's truly how you feel…then why tell me? You have the power to enact a disbanding at this very moment. Granted you'd have to meet with the board members and the donors, but you can effectively shut it down."

"True…but I would like this to happen without much noise. Something to come up that'll quiet even the biggest supporters of the program."

Makoto's eye gently widened, "You're inquiring to see if I found out anything more about Kurusu-kun…"

His face went dark as he grimly nodded, "Correct…have you?"

…With Ohya…technically…

But…that's for leverage.

Kobayakawa could clearly see conflict forming on her face, "Niijima-san…that delinquent has brought nothing but trouble for this school the second he stepped foot in here. He was causing trouble even beforehand the year before by dismantling our championship aspirations. If we leave him on Shujin's premises…who knows what would be birthed from his…activities." he leaned forward in his chair, "You know something smells off with him and I don't want the stench to reach the whole school. I know you fear the same."

Kicking him out of school despite how I feel is…excessive…

"Auditions are coming up, aren't they?"

Makoto raised her head to meet his, "I recall during your sister's audition process they barred her from actual acceptance thanks to your father's reputation…but I was able to help her after her Shujin Fair exhibition with writing a letter of recommendation." Their eye contact never wavered as he pressed further, "While yes, Sae has her fame, her career, and her future ahead of her…I wonder if that'll extend to you as well, Niijima-san. Though if anything similar to you happened, I'd surely love to help. Doing favors for each other is expected, afterall."

Makoto placed her hands behind her back, one over the other as her rage started to turn her knuckles white, "I…I see. At the moment…I have a lead developing on Kurusu-kun."

"Ah, that's wonderful to hear. I hope it turns up pleasurable soon. But…is there any chance you have something on Sakura-san as well?"

She paused, "Why Sakura-sensei?"

"If we have no director…and no one respectable shows up, I would have to be forced to suspend the club, much like last time."

"...what about all of the kids riding on music as their pathway to college?"

His eyes faintly bounced with surprise as she brought up a point he hadn't—nor cared to—think about. "Ah…they'll be fine, Niijima-san. I promise."

Makoto shakily looked him in the eye before bowing and heading for the door, his final words ringing in her head, "I think this arrangement will be beneficial for the both of us, Niijima-san. Have a swell day."

Sojiro clapped his hands together, "Alright kids! I'm immensely proud of you guys after yesterday! Truthfully, you…blew all of the expectations in my head away. The uniformity, the sound quality, the playing? All wonderful. I'm happy that our first outing together as the Marching Phantoms was as successful as I dreamed for it to be." Sojiro paused as he looked down at the peering faces below the podium, "But…everything surrounding our first debut wasn't…pleasurable in the public eye. While yes, all publicity is good publicity, that doesn't ring entirely true in the realm of entertainment. In the past 24 hours alone, especially on our new media page on Shujitter thanks to Mishima-kun, I've already heard people say we rigged the results. We caused Madarame's…confession somehow. We ruined him for a silly little battle of the bands."

Sojiro chuckled at the thought of those comments holding a faint disfigured truth, "As you all know, that isn't true. But…after everything that's happened recently, everyone has their eyes on us, and plans to be as critical and savage as possible. This means only one thing, we need to get back out there and be better. Every. Single. Performance. No matter what it is. Even in practice, we need to give not only 100% but beyond it. We need to care for each and every one of our own. No matter how they play, how they act, or what they do. They're a part of us and we're as strong as our weakest link. I know I'm rambling but I'm proud of you guys and we should be looking forward and building toward the future for now on. Also, I'm working on getting us new uniforms so you guys don't have to use your gym clothes every time. In any case, I'll allow you guys to use this time to warm-up and prepare."

Sojiro hopped off the podium, Tetsuo coming up, "Sakura-sensei? Um…since Kurusu-senpai isn't here, how do you want the trumpet section to proceed?"

Sojiro eyed the kid, "You're Tetsuo Suzuno, right? You did great yesterday and I've been noticing the effort."

Tetsuo gave a nervous chuckle, "Thank you, sir."

"No problem, but since our trusty Band President is going to be…out of service until next week…I actually thought you would do fine with leading the section until Akira comes back."

"Wa–wait what?"

"I mean, it makes the most sense, does it not? You fit the role well and you have the skill." He placed a hand filled with kindness on his shoulder, "Besides, if things do get out of hand, you always have a trumpet player in me to help."

A faint chuckle came from his lips, "T-Thank you, sir."

Akira Kurusu and Ren Amamiya—in their short times of knowing each other—utterly despised each other's guts. Akira hated the fact Ren placed hands on his little brother, provoked him using his volleyball goons, and disrespected the people he cared for. Ren, on the other hand, hated Akira for the threat he posed. The physical manifestation of taking everything he had worked for in the last three years. A chance at greatness. Plus, the raven-haired wonder was so insufferable with his constant snark.

However, considering at the moment the both of them were on their hands and knees, completely barren except for their underwear in the teacher's lounge, their hatred for Morooka-or Motorola as Akira coined-was enough to have the two share something in common.

"We both apologize for the mockery of Shujin's customs and public image last Monday! It was disgusting and will never happen again!"

Morooka smacked his ruler against a spare teacher's desk, commanding the two boys to raise their heads to meet the eyes of every single teacher that stood before them.

Including Sadayo Kawakami.

"Do you accept our apology?!"

The teachers all murmured some form of agreement.

I'm going to murder this bucktooth fuck.

Kawakami looked at Morooka, discomfort rife on her face, "Was…was this really necessary…? I think this counts as a form of chil—"

Morooka snickered, "It's what these vile and…defiled boys need! To be stripped and begging for forgiveness! The sins of urban life has taken them by the neck, infecting them to no end! Look at them now! On their first step towards recovery!"

Morooka slammed the ruler once more, causing the boys to snap straight up, rigid and erect.

"Alright, boys! Time to walk back to the detention hall! One! Two! Three!"

Ren and Akira started stomping through Shujin in unison, crossing the walkway between the buildings and making it back to the room, all the while singing to the cadance of their march, "I don't know what you've been told! But I don't have no self-control!"

Morooka slowly made his way into the room as the two stood stiffly behind their assigned desks, "Ah…good to see some progress has been elicited today. Now, for our next lesson…we'll be writing a ten-page essay on the failings your parents have caused you and how the incident at the park was a cry for help to be free from the radical influence of the allure of Tokyo. All in English, mind you." Morooka opened his mouth to speak, but an alarm went off, "Aw…my time is over for the moment. You may be dismissed, but don't be late again…and don't try anything sneaky." Morooka gave three ruler hits on the desk as if he was releasing a spell that allowed the boys freedom as they frantically put their uniforms back on.

Once they, fearfully, gave Morooka a bow, the two enemies left.

The second they stepped from the practice building, sheer hatred entered their voices as Ren spoke first, "I'm going to slowly pull that purity nut's front teeth out with pliers."

"You get the teeth and I'll truly turn him into a paragon of chastity."

Ren snapped his head at Akira, seemingly remembering he was there, "Don't think this is over, lapdog. I'm still going to make sure you learn your place in the dirt, but for now…we have a more pressing concern…and we need to find a way to avoid it for the moment."

"Yeah, yeah, we can have a dirty orgy who cares. But we? Color me surprised, I didn't think you had the brain capacity to realize I'm not the enemy, Renny."

Ren rolled his eyes so hard Akira was sure they were going to get stuck gazing at the back of his skull, "As I said, more pressing concern."

Akira sighed as they stopped at the front of Shujin, thinking of possible solutions, "I…could see if Sakura-sensei could come up with a punishment for us tomorrow since there's no practice. Can't promise anything, though."

A sigh came from Ren as he sought to leave, "Think of something. I suck at English."

Akira ignored his last statement as he gazed down at his phone, a few texts littering his notification center.

Though, as expected, there was nothing from Igor or the Twins.

He sighed, "Fuck it."

Akira quickly tapped on the keypad on Igor's house, the door unlocking with ease.

Course that long-nosed bastard still has the same code from home….

Getting inside and closing the door behind him, Akira was greeted with the sound of a lone voice softly wailing from deeper inside the house.

It wasn't in pain or fear, it was–much like the recording of Sayuri—wailing in longing. Akira followed the voice deeper and deeper inside, taking a staircase to the lower portion of the house to see Lavenza singing by her lonesome.

Akira was mesmerized by the beauty of her voice as he stood at the base of the stairs, something she picked up on quickly, "Oh! Akira, when did you get in here? Actually…how did you even get in?"

"Igor's had the same code since 2017, I just guessed to see if it was the same. And I just let myself in so…"

"Right…I told Igor he should change that eventually."

"Speaking of Igor…why hasn't he been answering my calls? Actually…where is he? I could help but notice you're kinda…you know, alone."

"Right, I suppose he never got around to telling you. Igor and the twins are currently on a trip with one of Igor's older protégés. He recently came back from a trip in Europe and Igor wanted to check in."

"Huh. Who would've thought he can actually be nice."

Lavenza faintly cracked a grin, "Is that all you've come for?"

"Pretty much…just kinda wanted to see if he was behind something that's been happening to me but I can't get any answers now so…I'll just get out of your hair."

Lavenza nodded as Akira turned for the stairs, "Akira?"

He paused his ascent, "Hm?"

"You do know you can take it easy now, right?"

He faltered at the abruptness of her statement, "Uh…yeah? Thanks?"

She smiled at him warmly, "Take care."

Akira got back to LeBlanć with ease, something he was starting to treasure more and more. Upon stepping into the apartment, he was greeted by the sight of Yusuke simply drinking a cup of tea while Morgana slept on the couch.

Placing his bag down, Akira stretched while greeting his guest, "Hey Yusuke, how was school?"

He gently raised his head, as if he didn't realize Akira was there, "Ah, Akira, it was…uneventful."

Akira went to retrieve a bottle of water from the fridge, "Nobody messed with you?"

Yusuke faltered on the question, "Unless it went above my head, to my knowledge no. It simply was uneventful, thankfully."

A faint grin formed, "That's great to hear, but I'm gonna go pass out…detention was awful today…"

He nodded, "Enjoy your rest, Akira."

Tuesday, June 8th

Akira sighed as the beaming sun relentlessly shined upon him and Ren.

Sure, they weren't inside of the Detention Hall getting endless lashings from Morooka while they completed their English essays, but single-handedly clearing Inokashira Park by themselves? An improvement but by a minimal margin. An incredibly minimal one.

It didn't help that Sojiro and Yamaguchi were supervising them.

Though, supervising isn't the proper term to use since they were sitting on a bench in the park underneath the shade, something the two club captains deeply wished for.

I swear I'm going to kick Sojiro in the fucking balls.

Ren bumped into Akira as he went for a lone piece of trash out of Akira's view, "Hey! Watch it, Renny!"

Ren sighed, "Is this really the best idea you came up with…? God, you truly are incompetent."

"I didn't come up with the idea, dickhead, that was our leaders." Akira picked up a piece of trash, "If you wanna bitch about it so bad, you can always go enjoy the presence of Morooka's lectures about the vileness of city life and how being bitchless is a gift. Though…I think you understand that last part all too well."

He scoffed, "You're funny. Much rather be on my lonesome than some mindless lapdog for some stuck-up pampered rich bitches."

Annnnd here we go again.

Akira dropped his bag and got into Ren's face, shoving him, "I don't give a shit if you call me out of my name, but keep Haru's name out of your fucking mouth, Renny."

Ren steadied himself, "Ooh…I'm so sorry, was that too much for your Heiress Whore? What are you gonna do now? There's no brother to distract me while you sucker punch me."

"And there's no little brother to tackle me to the ground. I'll kick your ass if you really want to try it."

He chuckled, " You know, all throughout our time at Shujin I've heard she's been with practically all the rich and famous boys. You think you're special because she acknowledges your miserable existence? She'll discard you once she's bored, the rich don't care about any of us. Though she must be really giving you a bang for your buck if you're being this idiotic."

Akira tried to advance on the Third-Year but Sojiro and Yamaguchi appeared between the two of them, doing well to keep the two separated. The former spoke first, "Come on! What the hell is your problem?!"

"Sojiro, he literally started this shit first! Again!"

"And you fell for it, again! I don't know what the hell is your problem is with each other and I don't care, but you two have to stop this! What if you did this at Shujin? In front of your classmates?"

Akira paused, he had forgotten…just because Ren had gotten a rise out of him, "Our clubs…"

"Exactly. It's not just you two anymore. I would hope today and yesterday would make you realize that more. You two are leaders. Leaders are wise and smart, not reckless and impulsive." Sojiro sighed as he looked at Ren, "You understand?"

Ren begrudgingly nodded as the two teachers sighed, going back to their bench "Great. Now get back to work."

As Akira went for his bag of trash, a pair of shoes formed in front of his eyes, "Sheesh…I didn't really expect to see you here, Kurusu-kun! What did you do now?"

Akira tilted his head, catching sight of Tamashi, "Tamashi-san? What are you–"

Tamashi looked around the park, seeing Sojiro, Yamaguchi, and Ren, "I was on my lunch break and decided to eat in the park but…then I heard a familiar voice and thought it couldn't be you but…here we are."

"Huh…"

"So…how have you been? Did that gift situation resolve itself?"

Right…I forgot he did buy the camera after it broke.

"Not really sure, haven't heard anything since then but considering I'm in a good condition, it went well I guess."

Tamashi gave a grin as he turned back around, "That's good to hear kid. Make sure you don't go seeking out trouble."

Akira looked at the businessman perplexed as Ren nudged him, "Who was that? You making friends with strangers now?"

Akira gently shrugged, "A weird guy who bought me a camera."

Akira couldn't see, but Ren looked at him strangely before groaning, "Alright man just move your ass."

Wednesday, June 9th

Maruki's attention was snatched away from his book as a few knocks slipped from the door, which came as a bit of a surprise as he wasn't expecting anyone today. Anyone who partially had his interest as a viable patient was out on the second-years' TV Studio trip. Nevertheless, he wasn't the type of person who would push away anyone.

It went against his very being.

"Come in!"

Morgana Kurusu poked his head into the door, "Maruki-sensei? Are you busy?"

Maruki shook his head, "No, in fact it's the opposite here. I'm rather bored since a third of the population is gone. I assume the same is true for you?"

Mona chuckled, "I guess that's true. Can I come in?"

"Of course, take a seat and a candy from the bowl as well if you wish." Mona quickly took a seat, "I just have to wonder…what made you want to have a session today?"

"Well…I've kinda noticed my brother is a little bit better since his session with you. Though this week might…be a little difficult for him."

Difficult?

Mona slouched a bit in the couch chair, comfort starting to suffocate him, "Since he's gone today, I thought this might be a great time to give you a test drive without him being annoying in my ear."

Maruki nicked a lollipop from the bowl, popping it into his mouth as he leaned forward, "Okay…what would you like to discuss today, Morgana?"

"Uh…I have to pick? Can't you pull something from a prompt or?"

"Okay, I see you and your brother are similar in that regard. In any case, how's your relationship with your brother?"

Mona shrugged, "Oh, we're great actually. Probably the closest we've been in a…I'm not sure."

Maruki quirked an eyebrow, "What do you mean?"

"Oh, so I guess he never told you?" Maruki shook his head, completely unaware, "Contrary to how Akira acts now…we've never been close, actually."

Maruki paused at the revelation, "Really? But—"

"We seem so close right? As if it's always been like this?" He shook his head, "Nah…I guess you could say I'm to blame for it…but, uh, if anything we used to be distant towards each other. Very."

"What closed the gap?"

Maruki nodded, "I see. I see. I've been the only child of my parents my whole life, so I can't relate in any form."

Mona chuckled, "Siblings are annoying. Especially when you're the baby because nobody wants to view you as your actual age, or as your own person."

"Mhm. What about your parents? I can imagine being apart from them has been difficult."

He scoffed, "Understatement of the year, Maruki. Mom's been fine and really supportive. I talk to her almost every day when I get the chance, honestly. I miss her a lot."

Maruki gazed at Mona, quirking an eyebrow as he waited for him to continue, "Your father?"

Mona's face darkened, "Oh, right…pops is fine. Seems kinda busy besides the times he calls and texts me to make sure I'm fine. I know his heart problems have gotten a little more serious since we left. Knowing that…makes me feel guilty. I think Akira feels the same on some level."

"You think? You two don't talk about your parents?"

Mona paused as he struggled to articulate it, "We talk about our mother when we get the chance, hell we even talk about our uncle when we get the chance, but when it comes to dad…he and Akira don't have the best relationship. The only times I hear Akira mention him is when he calls or texts Akira about me, actually."

Maruki tilted his head, "Why is that?"

"...It's not my place to speak on."

"I understand, I don't like to push when I don't have to. In any case, have you been involved with any people outside of your brother's friends?"

"Oh, my social life? It's…well, before last week, it was actually going oddly perfect."

"Then the fight happened."

"Yup. A, uh, girl I was feeling pretty hard isn't talking to me anymore. I've tried to talk to her over the phone but…that's kind of a fifty/fifty since her phone acts all of the time. Can't talk to her in class since we sit in different places now, and I barely see her around school." Mona frowned, "I asked Haru Okumura if she could talk to her but…Haru has her own stuff going on and I'm not trying to breathe down her throat to hurry her up. I just don't know how I can talk to Kasumi, Maruki…"

Maruki's eyes faintly widened, "Kasumi Yoshizawa…? Oh, so you're the one she's been talking to me about…"

Mona did a double take, "E-Excuse me, she does what?"

"She talks about you, Morgana."

It seemed as if Mona was going to jump from his chair, "What does she say?! Is it positive?! When was the last time—"

Maruki raised a finger as he chuckled, "I can't divulge patient information, remember?"

A pout formed on his face, "Damn it…"

"But I can give you a little piece of advice to soothe your mind," Maruki gently touched his shoulder, "don't worry too much about her. Let her come to you first and then go from there, alright? I know all too well what an overthinking mind can do in the annoying realm of romance."

Mona relaxed his shoulders, "Y-Yeah, you're right doc."

Maruki leaned back in his chair, "How is your band life so far? I heard the performance from Sunday went well…in spite of everything."

"It…" Morgana paused, "It feels good. I think."

"You think?"

"I...I have a bit of a complicated relationship with being a part of a marching band. Last time I was a part of one, it wasn't really my choice. Kinda. This time? I did it of my own choice, with no input from Akira, nothing from Sojiro or my parents. Just my own choice with all my heart in it. I guess I wanted to use it as a way to clear the slate, and it feels good…for now. But something still feels…false."

"What makes you say for now?"

"I…I don't know, Maruki…I just kinda have a bad feeling about things as of late. Sure, the performance went well despite what was going on with Madarame, and Sojiro seems just as pumped to keep moving forward but…" He paused, "My brother and his best friend are going through a rough patch I think, a good friend of mine is leaving soon, and it feels like…I don't know, we're—" Morgana stopped himself, a sigh coming from his lips, "Despite how much Akira wants things to be normal now and as if he's fine…something in my gut is telling me things are going to be eventful for us and that worries me."

Maruki gazed at him before placing his hand on the first year's shoulder again, "Be that as it may...it's good to trust your gut...but don't let it suffocate you. Take a break...and let your worries wash away. Don't let it feel false anymore." He gave a grin as Morgana nodded, an odd sense of calm washing over him.

Maybe Akira was right about Maruki.

"Did you see that shit back there, Akira? I can't believe him!" Ann came stomping down the hall, meeting Akira just as he stepped from the restroom, taking a much-needed piss after enduring wire work with Kazuhiro that seemed to drag on forever—even if it was just 15 measly minutes.

"Huh?"

She groaned, "I'm talking about Ryuji! Him and Ohya!"

He frowned, "Right…yeah, I don't have much to say about that."

She snapped her head to him, "Like…she's been so distant and completely avoiding him! Treating him like he's…spoiled meat or something and he's been doing that puppy-dog shit for like three weeks now, then she comes back with a few probably awful kisses and he's all over her? To think he's avoiding us and coddling up with her!"

Akira chuckled, "It seems as if you're jealous, Ann."

"W-What? No! Just remember what I said when we were texting. I don't trust that girl, at all. Her coming back just as he has this whole weird thing going on with ignoring you and Mona? It's fishy…"

He waved her suspicion off, "In any case, did you try to talk to him?"

Ann rolled her eyes, "I tried but he's being really dodgy about it. Kinda similar to someone I know…"

Well that wasn't totally a slight at me.

Before Akira could say anything in his failing defense, Goro Akechi bent the corner, almost colliding into Akira, a slight display of shock on his face, "Kurusu-san? What are you…" He paused, "Ah, that's right, Shujin Academy is here for today and tomorrow…"

"Yup. I guess you're the guest they're bringing in for the taping session?"

"As perceptive as ever." He turned to Ann as he stuck a hand out, "Where are my manners, I'm—"

Ann gripped his hand with a shocking amount of speed, shaking it vigorously, "Goro Akechi! Of course I know who you are!"

Huh.

Ryuji and Igor might've been right.

Goddamn it Ann.

Akechi nervously laughed at the energy, "Who's your friend…Kurusu-san?"

"Ann Takamaki, she's in my class andthe captain of our dance team."

Realization dawned, "Ah! That's right, I saw you last year at the finals…I knew I saw your pretty face from somewhere before."

Really?

That's the best you got?

Oh brother, this guy stinks.

He broke the grip, ignoring Ann's giddiness from his comment as he returned his attention to Akira, "That reminds me…I didn't have a chance to go, but I heard the battle was enjoyable. Particularly the trumpet section stood out…is this true?"

He shrugged, "I…think that's an exaggeration. Everyone did great. Hell, even Kosei showed up and showed out."

A couple of nods came from Akechi, "I see…it's a shame what happened to Madarame, though. I wonder how Kitagawa-san's been doing…I heard he isn't allowed to stay at Madarame's shack anymore since it's a key portion of his crimes."

Akira rubbed his cheek, "I haven't heard from Yusuke…but I think he's alright."

No need to publicize Yusuke Kitagawa staying at my apartment…

That's more attention I do not need while I'm trying to lay low…

Akechi clicked his teeth, "Such a shame…in any case, it was good to see you again. I have a meeting to get to, so I'll see you at the taping."

The two bowed as Akechi walked off, leaving the two Shujin students on their lonesome, "Wow…his hair really is as pretty as they say."

Akira rolled his eyes, "Alright, I'm gonna go to detention. You can fawn over Akechi or whatever."

Ann snickered, "There's no way you'd rather deal with Morooka than me."

Akira simply looked at her and walked down the hall, leaving her as she chuckled at the implication.

From meeting Tamashi to Akechi this week…

Odd chances, huh?

What's next, Kawakami or something?

"Why did you come late this morning, Kawakami-san?"

Akira froze on the spot, mentally cursing himself.

Oh, you have GOT to be FUCK—

A simple Kurusu-patented sigh slipped from his lips as he peeked down the corner, Chouno practically pinning Kawakami against the wall with nowhere to go, "I've been watching you…you've been coming later and later each day, all the more tired…why is that?"

Kawakami looks pretty nervous…

Hm…encountering my maid moonlighting teacher after…almost a solid week of ignoring her or…possibly let her get fired and lose the only teacher that kinda stomachs me that isn't involved with my family.

Tsk, tsk…such a hard choice.

…Oh, I'm going to regret this, aren't I?

Akira cleared his throat as he jogged toward the two, "Kawakami-sensei!"

The two jerked their heads in Akira's direction, Chouno being the first to speak, "Kurusu-kun, can't you see two teachers are trying to have a conversation? Aren't you supposed to be heading back to Shujin for your discipline session with Morooka?"

Akira shivered at the mention of his…warden, "True…but it's important."

She quirked one of her thick eyebrows, "Do tell if it's important enough to rudely interrupt my conversation…or else I might have to put in an extra suggestion for Morooka."

Oh, come on!

Why are you so persistent?!

And what the hell did I do?! I don't even talk in your class and I answer all your stupid ass questions you silverback granola bar chin-built motherfu—

FOCUS AKIRA.

He cleared his throat once more, "I…just wanted to talk to Kawakami-sensei about…our extra study sessions. Yeah, I've been having a couple of issues in her class and reached out. Since Morooka's…lessons take up a big chunk of my time, it's been affecting me."

Chouno's eyebrows jumped with surprise as she glanced back at Kawakami, "Oh…you've been indulging your problem student with extra time and care…that's why you've been tired?"

Kawakami briefly glanced at Akira, who in turn shrugged as he had no suggestions, "Y-Yes, the Morooka sessions take a large chunk of his time, which causes me to personally give him lessons in...Shibuya. The ride to my home to there and back after three or so hours is incredibly strenuous."

Chouno's face morphed with regret, "Oh…I'm so sorry." She bowed to both of them, "I apologize. I've just been trying to make sure all the teachers here are…actually doing their jobs after the last month." She walked off, leaving the two by themselves.

The two's eyes met, to which Akira gave her a flat smile as he turned to leave, but she stopped him, quickly pulling out a piece of paper and jotting a number down on it, "When you have the time…let's talk. Outside of Shujin, okay?"

Akira nodded as she walked off. Examining the paper he sighed, "I hate it here…"

Thursday, June 10th

Akira yawned as he passed Yusuke by, "You okay?"

The artist nodded as he slowly started to put his uniform on, "You don't have to ask me that question every day, Akira."

"True…but I just want to."

Yusuke sat at the countertop as he constructed a bowl of cereal, Morgana came out of his bedroom and stood by the door, "I'm ready when you are Akira."

Akira quickly grabbed a bottle of water from the fridge, "Right, I'm coming." Before locking the door behind him, he looked at Yusuke again, "Remember, have a good day."

Yusuke gave him a reassuring smile as the door closed with a light thud, a signal for him to drop his smile.

Ever since the news of Madarame broke, the people of Kosei High School were slowly piecing together that a lot of the…drop-outs that Kosei had within the last ten years were connected to Madarame himself. Course, it would only make sense the strange occurrences at Kosei would be recontextualized with the implication of Madarame's…trade.

Beforehand, most people just wrote them off as, just that, dropouts due to how erratic and low-profile they would be.

In hindsight, it was frustrating for the administration of Kosei to never piece anything together, they were always in the music department or first-years.

Though the first-year tag to each of these students is what led to the dismissal on their part.

Of course, it only made sense to them, the first year of Kosei was a massive disruption of any student's ideal of academic life. It was tough, rigorous, and unknown.

It was a way of life in their ecosystem.

A rite of passage that everyone couldn't get through.

It onlymade sense.

A rationalization that led to a gross error.

Besides piecing together Madarame's connection with the disappearances, the student body of Kosei and, even the faculty themselves, were starting to ask one crucial question.

Why was Yusuke Kitagawa the only protege left?

How was he able to stay with Madarame since he was an infant?

These questions—with their lack of answers—and their origin stemming from a decrepit place naturally led to…less than positive reactions.

Yusuke's closed-off and…eccentric nature only exemplified this further by his refusal to perform or even show up to Kosei and—when on Monday—he simply acted as if everything was normal. Adhering truthfully to the words he told Akira the day before.

This only made things worse.

Yusuke walked through Kosei by himself, both literally and figuratively. People were giving him stares, scowls, and whispering heinous allegations about him.

Everything from him helping Madarame with his fraud, to him having a role in disappearances, to even him being the sort of mastermind behind everything. Those were from students and staff that couldn't seem to believe Madarame was alwaysthis sort of person.

A pill Yusuke was still struggling to swallow.

Yusuke willingly continued his isolation as he trekked throughout the day until his homeroom teacher told him he was needed in the bandroom.

"Sensei? Why am I required?"

She looked at him a bit strangely, "Kitagawa-kun, I'm sure you don't need explaining on that."

Yusuke's eyes lowered as he left the classroom, navigating the halls of Kosei on his lonesome once again.

Upon getting to their massive bandroom, Yusuke couldn't help but notice how empty it was.

Hell, only a single light was on.

"Hello? Is anyone here?"

There was nothing but silence…at least until a bucket of paint manifested in his face. Covering him whole.

It was maddening, Yusuke's lack of sight. Erratically he reached out, trying his hardest to touch his assaulters. It didn't matter though, it wouldn't be enough to identify them.

A palpable sense of fear spiked through Yusuke as he was pushed to the ground, feeling the sensation of someone grabbing his head, a nasty voice tumbling from their lips, "We don't want you here, you pathetic mute. Even when covered in paint, you're still quiet. Why is that? Because you know nobody cares enough to try and help? Because you know you're awful?" The lack of response caused the man to chuckle, "They should've taken you away with Madarame."

The man loosened his grip as he and his group left, laughter filling the halls as Yusuke was left alone.

Alone and in the dark.

Discarded to the wayside.

As always.

Yusuke's breaths were shaky, a sigh of an impending break he was desperately trying to hold back.

The shaky voices were shared with his limbs as he frantically searched for his bag, finding it a few steps away.

He was hoping that in the chaos it wasn't broke because–

He grabbed it, feeling the voice recorder in his hands.

Despite his best efforts…tears were streaming down his face, in spite of the stinging pain from the paint.

A wobbly finger pressed play.

This was a form of peace right?

To calm him down?

"As I gaze, thoughts fill my head on your view as I stand,

With eyes so small but oh-so grand,

Can they see how you touch me like a breeze against the sand?

In other words,

Please hold my hands,

To just see how dear you are to me,

My beautiful lily.

Dream with me,

To see how the pastures of my mind were mute,

The sky sick with the flu,

My eyes filled with dew,

Until that part of you made me feel new,

In other words,

I love you."

Yusuke cried harder than he ever had before.

Huddled in a corner, silently holding back his sobs as his mother's voice filled the empty band room.

And yet—her voice didn't fill the hole in his heart.

It was only made wider.