Ren was snapped out of his thoughts after being slightly shaken by the train. He looked around and saw the case file in his hands.
"I was daydreaming…?"
He put the file inside his bag and looked at the city he was going to stay in for a whole year. Tokyo is in fact huge, and even with his map app, Ren found it difficult to find his way to the capital of the country, not it wasn't any signs to help, but the lines have changed their route and he took some time to find his way.
"Tokyo, huh… If that day hadn't happened…"
Ren remembered the day he was arrested. Even though most of the things still vague, he clearly remembered the scene. The car flashlights, the scared woman calling for help. The drunk man, who tripped in himself and fell over. His threat and then Ren being arrested on the spot. He could even remember his voice. The voice of the man who ruined his life.
Damn brat… I'll sue!
It was the most marking thing, and he didn't do anything wrong. He just touched his shoulder and asked for him to calm down. His eyes showing his anger and the blood coming from his forehead. All of that marked deep on Ren's mind. That made Ren angry. It was unfair how the world was when the powerful ones can do whatever they want. It wasn't fair. But he remembered his mentors, and that made his lips curled upwards. That day gave to him at least good things, and one more motive to endure all of that. A whole year in Tokyo wasn't so bad as it sounded, right? Ren looked at his bag once again. That day. The day of his judgment. It was a day he couldn't forget as well. One of many reasons to just accept that probation was because of that day, as well as one of the reasons who made him become an attorney. The day when everything changed once again.
-What? Are you for real? A mental shutdown?
Ren's attention snapped for the conversation of two girls who were talking about the recent events that made him almost lose his train to Tokyo.
-It's the truth!
-To a person though? That's gotta be a joke. You really love all that occult stuff, don't you?
As far as Ren watched the city, he felt the train stop. It was his station. He went off the train and walked towards the city using his smartphone, enjoying the view. As much he wished his parents to come with him, even they had their own life, and besides, he could count with the aid of the technology.
He could count on it until a strange image appeared on his screen. It was the icon of a weird app; an app he clearly remembers he hasn't installed on his smartphone. The icon expanded, taking the whole screen.
"What the…!?" He thought, touching the screen. "Isn't coming out!"
Then the whole world stopped. No one was moving as he looked around. Then in the middle of the crowd, something strange happened.
Something frightening.
In the middle of the crossroad, a pillar of fire rose out of the blue. The blue flames took a humanoid form as they were surrounding something. Or someone.
To Ren's shock, a face made of red flames appeared and revealed a person behind it.
It was him in the middle of the flames.
Then everything went back to normal. People walked to their destinations as Ren was stood in the middle of the sidewalk, not moving.
"It was… a hallucination…?" Ren thought, still shocked by what he had seen. His attention was caught back by his phone, which was still showing the app icon. "That app… Better delete it."
Ren deleted the app and continue on his way to his destination.
—
April, 9. Saturday
Yongen-Jaya District
Evening
—
Ren arrived at the station of Yongen-Jaya by train. After finding the right way, he finally reached his destination. Exiting the station, he went to the backstreets of the district, going to his destination. At that point, the map app failed to help him with that task.
"Great, just great." He thought looking around. "Now then… The name of my guardian is Sojiro Sakura. He'll be taking care of me starting today… He probably lives around here, if my memory doesn't fail…" Ren looked once again. "Better ask someone for directions…"
Ren saw an officer and he went in his direction. As he approaches him, he noticed the officer wasn't too friendly at first glance.
-Excuse me.
-What is it?
-I'm actually lost. Please can you tell me where this is place? — Ren asked showing Sojiro's address.
-Hm? You want to get to the residence at that address… huh? Well, it's in an alleyway a bit further back. Take a right after that apartment with stairs.
-Thank you.
-You're welcome.
Ren followed the officer's direction and reached Mr. Sakura's residence. However, after ringing the doorbell, no one had answered.
"No one is in home…"
-Looks like no one's home… — Said the delivery man.
-Yes. I'm looking for him.
-Oh, yeah… Sakura-san's usually at his café around this time. The Leblanc.
-Leblanc?
-His café.
-Where is his café?
-Well, Leblanc's in the back alley. Now I should make my other deliveries first before…
-Thank you.
The delivery man nodded and Ren went back to the officer to ask for directions.
-You again!? What is it? — The officer asked annoyed.
-Sorry, but where's Leblanc?
-Leblanc…? Oh, right, that café. It's in an alley past the tobacco shop.
-Thank you.
Following the officer's directions, he found the Leblanc. The place was huge, considering the space between the buildings in Tokyo. The appearance was simple, yet classic, without being shady, nor old. Ren entered the establishment and he could smell the intense aroma of coffee. He saw a couple of elders and a man around his middle ages, with his hair slicked back, a beard, glasses, wearing a pink polo and social cream pants, and white shoes. He was wearing an apron as well. He was solving a crosswords puzzle as the couple watched the news in silence.
-And down is… the name of a shellfish used in pearl farming…
-Oyster. The answer is Oyster.
-Thanks... — The manager said surprised. — …Oh, right… They did say that was today.
-We'll be going now. The payments on the table.
-Thanks for coming. — The manager answered neutrally.
-This place is in the back alley, so there are no worries of a car crashing here. — Said the elderly man.
-A what now?
-There's been a string of those rampage accidents, you know? I just hope that none happens around here.
-That's none of my concern. — The manager answered. — Besides I really doubt an accident will happen here.
-Haha, I wish you're right though. Well, we'll see you next time.
-Please come again.
The elderly couple stood up and exited the café.
-…Four hours for just a single cup of joe. — The manager said tired and bothered, scratching the back of his head. — So, you're Ren? Ren Amamiya, right?
-Yes. And you are Sojiro Sakura, correct?
-Yes. You'll be in my custody over the next year. — Sojiro analyzed Ren. — I was wondering what type of unruly kid would show up, but you're the one, huh?
"Geez… Sorry for disappointing you pal…" Ren thought sarcastically.
-Okay, if that's the case, why you accepted taking me to your custody?
-Have you been told?
-Told what?
-A customer of mine and your parents know each other and—
"You gotta be kidding me!? Really!?" Ren thought avoiding laughing at how absurd the situation was.
-And…? — The teenager asked, keeping his calm appearance, but outraged inside.
-Well, that doesn't matter… Follow me.
Ren followed Sojiro upstairs and faced an attic full of dust and trash.
"I'm not staying here, right?"
-This is your room.
"That's my room for an entire year!? There's nothing here!"
-At least I gave you sheets for your bed.
"You gotta be kidding me…"
-You look like you wanna say something.
-It's big… "…And dusty, cluttered, and full of trash! This is a joke, right?" Ren thought angry.
-It's on you to clean up the rest.
"Seriously, I didn't know. Thanks for advising me." Ren commented sardonically to himself.
-I'll be leaving after I lock up each day. You'll be alone at night, but don't do anything stupid. I'll throw you out if you cause any trouble.
-Ok.
-Now then… I got the gist of the situation.
"Or you think you do."
-Okay, say it.
-You protected some woman from a man forcing himself on her, he got injured, then sued you. Right?
-Right.
-That's what you get for sticking your nose in matters between two adults. You did injure him, right?
-Correct. "As I thought, he doesn't know my real situation."
-…And now that you've got a criminal record, you were expelled from your high school. The courts ordered you to transfer and move out here, which your parents also approved.
-Exactly. "Most of it."
-In other words, they got rid of you for being a pain in the ass.
-Yes. "He defined my situation with one single phrase. I'm impressed."
-I don't need to say this, but it's best you do not talk about anything unnecessary. I am in the restaurant business for a while, you know. Behave yourself for the year. If nothing happens, your probation will be lifted.
-A whole year…
-Yes. 'Cause any problems, and you'll be sent to juvie, got it?
-Got it.
-Good. We'll be going to Shujin tomorrow.
-Shujin?
-Shujin Academy—The school you'll be attending from now.
-Oh, Shujin Academy. I remember now. — Ren answered slightly embarrassed.
-We'll introduce ourselves properly to the staff there. There's rarely a place that'll accept someone like you, you know.
-Yes, I know.
-What a waste of my Sunday…
-I'm sorry about that… And my luggage?
Your "luggage" arrived a little while ago. I brought it up here for you.
-Thanks.
-I'm gonna take care of the things down there.
Sojiro went downstairs as Ren looked at the place.
"Well, I'm gonna live here for a whole year… Time to clean this place. Make it more presentable."
Ren opens his luggage and changed his clothes. After that, he checked the whole room. After seeing a pile of trash, another pile made of old books, and a pile of books over a workbench, and other piles full of books on a table. Ren started to clean the whole place, taking all the dust, put the unnecessary books away in the workbench. After that, he cleaned the sofa and cleaned his bed.
—
Café Leblanc
Evening
—
-What the heck? I heard you making all the sort of noise up here but I didn't think you were cleaning.
-Well, there are a lot of things here… — Ren explained calmly, ignoring Sojiro's comment. Sojiro analyzed the room.
-Actually, the place doesn't look so bad.
"After I clean, not."
-Though it's only natural you'd want to keep your room tidy.
-True.
-Well, you should go to bed now. You don't have anything better to do, right?
-Right. I'm tired after all.
-I'm going to close the shop and get out of here myself.
-Okay.
-Just remember, I won't be the one looking after you if you get sick from staying up too late, you got that?
-I got it.
-I'll be going now. Bye.
Ren changed his clothes and he laid down on his bed.
"Now that's my bed from today… My room… At least I have privacy…" Ren thought. "Arrest… Trial… Criminal record…" Ren remembered that night once again. "Still I couldn't just let that go…" He sighed. "That day…"
—
Hometown Neighborhood
Evening
Several months ago.
—
Ren was rushing his way back home. He stayed until the night at the house of a friend and he wished to come back earlier. Nowadays, even the cities far from the megalopolis became more dangerous, especially at night. He was finally reaching his home when he heard screams from a woman.
"Is that…"
Walking forward, he saw a drunk man arguing against a woman. He was trying to get her inside the car. Approaching them, he saw him grabbing her wrist.
-No…!
-Don't give me that shit!
-Ow! P-Please stop… — She begged.
"She's in danger! I need to help her!"
Ren went forward and touched the shoulder of the drunk man.
-You should leave her alone.
—
April, 9. Saturday
Café Leblanc
Evening
—
Then everything happened so fast. Remembering his arrest, he heard the voice of that man saying about that situation.
"The police are my bitches. They're not gonna take you seriously. Incompetent fools like you just need to shut your mouths and follow my orders where I steer this country!"
"Remembering that is not going to make my situation change." Ren thought, pushing all his memories away, trying to sleep. He closed his eyes but before he could sleep, he heard his phone. Looking if he received any message, he saw the weird app once again on his screen.
"Again? I thought I had deleted this app." He looked at the icon of the app for a few seconds. "The icon it's an eye. And the pupil is a star…? Well, never mind…"
Ren deleted the app and put his phone back into his pocket. Making his mind blank, he fell asleep, immersing his mind in the darkness.
—
Unknown Place
Unknown Time
—
Ren came back to his senses suddenly, and he felt something around his wrists. He was cuffed, once again by heavy shackles. He looked around, noticing he wasn't in the Leblanc attic anymore. He saw chains around the place, and the walls were stuffed with blue velvet. He sat up on the bed and saw his arms, seeing the shackles on his wrists, chaining him, as well he wasn't wearing his pajamas, but a prisoner outfit now. He heard a feminine chuckle as he tried to figure out where he was and what was going on. He saw two girls coming from the sides and noticed both were twins. Both were dressed as wardens, the only difference that can be seen is by the hairstyle and the eyepatch's position. Then he noticed the outside was different, a familiar vision to him. When he tried to walk, he heard another chain and felt something around his ankle. He was chained to an iron ball as well, close to his bed. Once he approached the door, he saw a courtroom, in the middle of the thing that looked like a prison. The twins walked away, revealing someone in the middle of the space, following the blue velvet aesthetics, with golden details. Ren saw a bizarre bald man, with long hair and bloodshot eyes, wearing an elegant black suit. He stared at him with a shocking smile, almost reaching his pointed ears, sat behind his office desk, the only thing out of the place in that courtroom.
-Trickster… welcome to my velvet room. — The figure said with a deep staid voice.
-Velvet…Room…? — Ren said, processing the whole situation. — Where am I? Who are you? And who are those two? — Ren asked, trying to get free.
-So, you've come to, Inmate. — Said the twin on Ren's right.
-Inmate… It's that a joke? Because is not funny! — He asked, annoyed and furious. — How I've come to this place? Where am I? How did you do that?
-Please calm down. You are in reality currently fast asleep. You are only experiencing this as a dream. — Explained the twin on Ren's left.
-Wait. I'm… dreaming? — Ren asked confused. — That's too real to be just a dream. "So, this is a real place…" — Ren took a deep breath, trying to calm down. — Why can I only experience this through my dreams? I need some answers right now.
-Shut up! – The twin on Ren's right ordered. — You're in the presence of our master. Stand up straight!
"So, he's the master of this place…"
-Welcome. I am delighted to make your acquaintance.
-You're welcome. — Ren answered, still nervous about his situation. — About this place…
-This place exists between dream and reality, mind and matter.
-So, this place is another dimension…
-Indeed. It is a room that only those who are bound by a "contract" may enter.
-I see… "What he's talking about…?" What's your name?
-I am Igor, the master of this place. Remember it well.
-I see… I suppose you already know who am I. So, why you called me?
-I summoned you to speak of important matters. It involves your life as well.
-Important matters? What do you mean by that? Why I'm in a prison cell?
-Still, this is a surprise… — Igor answered admiring the Velvet Room, ignoring Ren's question. — The state of your own heart. To think both a courtroom and a prison would appear as such. You truly are a "defendant" of fate.
-What kind of bullshit is that!? — Ren yelled in anger, trying to get free. — Let me out of here!
-Shut up, Inmate! — The twin on Ren's right shouted, hitting the door cell with a compact bat.
-In the near future, there is no mistake that ruin awaits you.
-Ruin? Are you kidding me!? — Ren asked Igor with fury. — What do you mean by ruin?
-I speak of the end.
-The end…?
-Yes. The end of everything.
-W-What...?
-Yes. The end of everything is your ruin. However, there is a means to oppose such a fate.
-There is a way? How? How can I avoid ruin?
-To avoid ruin, you must be "rehabilitated." You need to be rehabilitated toward freedom… This is your only way to avoid ruin… So Trickster, do you have the resolve to challenge the distortion of the world?
"Do I have?" Ren thought.
-Honestly, I'd rather avoid ruin. "Whatever that means."
-Very well. Allow me to observe the path of your rehabilitation.
-Okay…
The twins turn in Igor's direction, making continence.
-Ah, pardon me for not introducing the others. To your right is Caroline; to your left, Justine. They serve as the warders here.
-Hmph, try to struggle as hard as you like, Inmate. — Said Caroline.
-The duty of wardens is to protect inmates. We are also your collaborators… That is if you remain obedient.
-I shall explain the role of these two on another occasion. — The twins turn to their master. — Now then, it seems the night is waning… It is almost time. Take your time to slowly come to understand this place. We will surely meet again, eventually…
The alarm inside Ren's cell rang as the turns tuns back towards his direction.
-Time's up. Now hurry up and go back to sleep. — Said Caroline.
-Wait! I demand answers! — Ren said, but he was merged into the pitch black of the unconscious.
—
April, 10. Sunday
Café Leblanc
Early Morning
—
Ren woke up in a somersault.
"It was… a dream…?" He thought. Shaking his head to clear his mind, Ren stood up, picking his school outfit.
"But it was so real… Ruin… Rehabilitation… What does all of that mean…?"
Ren finishes changing his clothes and he put his pajamas back to his luggage. Sojiro went to the attic.
-Looks like you're up already.
-Yes. By the way, nice hat and blazer.
-Thanks. Well then, we need to go to introduce ourselves properly to the staff about your transference. The school you're attending now is in the Aoyama district. It'll take some time to get by train, due to all those accidents. These changes on the lines are a real hassle too.
-I see…
-I'll drive you there, just for today.
-Okay, let's go… — Ren said, bothered.
-Let's. — Sojiro sighed. — Men usually aren't allowed on my passenger seat…
—
Aoyama-Itchome District. Shujin Academy
Front Entrance
Daytime
—
Ren and Sojiro stopped in front of a huge building. The sign written in kanji said the name of the place. Ren was truly surprised to see how big the new school he's attending to. It's bigger than most of the building, even bigger than his previous school. He found ironic the name of the place.
"... "Shujin", huh? That's what I call real irony and sarcasm."
-Do me a favor and behave yourself, okay?
-Okay… Thanks for your consideration.
-Don't get me wrong—I don't care what happens to you.
-Thanks a lot for your consideration towards me once again. — Ren answered, with an acid sarcasm.
-Just don't cause me any problems.
-Okay… Sheesh…
Both went in the Shujin Academy, as Ren looked the outside of the building one last time.
"I wish that probation ends soon…"
—
Shujin Academy
Principal Office
Daytime
—
After Sojiro signed the transferal documents when the principal told the details about Ren's new situation inside the Shujin Academy.
-To reiterate, just so we're clear, you will immediately be expelled if you cause any problems.
-Yes, I understand.
-In my opinion, you're nothing but a liability, but we had our circumstances to considerer… Whatever you might've gotten away with your hometown… those days are over… If you are thrown out of our school, there will be no place for you to go. Keep that in mind.
"Yes. I know about "these circumstances" Thanks for reminding me…" Ren thought.
-Yes. — Ren nodded.
-This is the teacher in charge of your class.
Ren glanced at the woman on the principal's left. It was almost around her thirties, wearing a jean skirt, brown shoes, and a long-sleeved yellow striped shirt. She possesses messy brown hair and dark brown eyes. His new teacher avoided any eye contact with him.
-I am Sadayo Kawakami. — Kawakami said, finally staring at Ren. — Here is your student ID.
Ren took the ID she put on the principal desk, but he stopped after noticing something out of place. It was a paper, which was taken quickly by Kawakami.
-Thank you. — He said, taking his ID.
-Be sure to read the school rules. Any violations will send you straight to the guidance office. And, if by any chance you cause any problem, I won't be able to protect you at all. — She glanced to the principal. — …That's IS your promise, yes, principal Kobayakawa?
-He's responsible for all his actions. — Kobayakawa answered.
-But really though, why me? There should've been better candidates instead of me.
-It was a sudden transfer, and your class was the only one that had an opening.
-If you two are done explaining things, do you two mind, if can we go already? I have a store to take care of.
-No problem. Sakura-san, please keep a close eye on him. Don't let him cause any trouble outside…
-I had a serious talk with him about that. I'll be sure to tell him that after we get back home.
-Very well.
-Just remember, after you arrive at school tomorrow, come to the faculty office. I'll show you your classroom. — Kawakami said to Ren.
-Okay.
-We'll be going now. Bye.
Both Ren and Sojiro bowed and walked out of the principal's office.
-Everyone is giving you the cold shoulder, huh… — Sojiro said, tired.
-Yeah, that's an example of what a criminal record does in your life… — Ren said, tired as well.
-Turns out your past follows you wherever you go.
-True.
-By the way… if you get expelled now, I won't hesitate to kick you out. Got it?
-Got it. I try to be careful. "I don't have any choice after all."
-Hm… You better do that. — Sojiro glanced around the place, toying with his beard, and sighed, smiling. — School never changes, huh…?
-You studied here?
-Kind of… Let's go. We need to go back home.
—
Shujin Academy
Courtyard
—
Kawakami walked through the corridors, thinking about the situation she got herself into, against her will, until someone disrupted her thoughts.
-What a troublesome situation.
It was one of her workmates, the P.E Teacher of the Shujin Academy.
-I can't believe they pushed someone with a record on me. A male teacher would be better suited for this… — She said disappointed.
-Why in the world was someone like that admitted here? — The P.E Teacher asked, disappointed as well.
-Who knows? It was the principal's decision. I was told it was for the school's reputation.
-I would've thought that my volleyball team has contributed more than enough to cover that.
-That's certainly true.
-Be careful, okay? — He said while he was stretching his arms. — Then again, if anything happens, I'd kick out a student like that right away.
-I keep wishing he'd just end up not coming to school. But still, that is something I shouldn't be saying as a teacher…
-Well, I should go back to practice.
-Oh, right. The tournament's coming up, isn't it?
-Yes. — He gave a small laugh. — Having such high expectations placed on your shoulders by others is quite a problem itself. We'll have to work to make up for the track team too.
-That's true… — Kawakami said, with a certain sadness. — Good luck.
-Thanks.
He went away and Kawakami stared at the ground.
-Seriously, why me? Why'd it has to be in my class?
—
Public Prosecutor's Office.
SIU Director Office
Evening
—
That was direct footage from the accident. According to the police, the engineer's life was not in danger, despite his injuries. After questioning, even he could not explain his high speed when approaching the station. No further comments were made. The police are still looking for a plausive motive. It's less of an operating accident and more of a crime of the company and the government. According…
Sae and the SIU Director were watching the news, seeing the footage of the recent accident that had happened. Both hear the anchor giving the information in silence as they absorbed all the details of the incident.
-Site inspectors apparently reported all of this six months ago… The deteriorations of the tracks and the ATC. Seems the railway company and the Ministry of Transport both turned a blind eye to the truth. There no way they can hide it. This will go all the way to the top.
Now, on to our main story. With this derailment accident, as well as other recent incidents of unknown motive, the concern is spreading among the general public. Just what could be causing such a drastic change so suddenly on those people?
-Everything is linked… that's what you're thinking, correct?
Sae didn't answer the SIU Director, who only smiled at her attitude. — …Ah well. Are you free? You and I haven't gone for a drink in a while.
-Thank you, sir, but I have another meeting to attend. — She answered, then bowed to him in respect. — I must be going now.
-Very well. Be careful out there.
After leaving his office, Sae went to her office and pick up her things. After pick up all, she walked towards the exit, with her bag in her hands. At the stairs, a young man was waiting for her. With an outfit composed of black shoes, pants, and a light brown blazer, he put his phone inside his pocket, as he grabbed tight his briefcase.
-Did you ask for me? Is it a case?
-Not quite. I just want your opinion about something.
-Sure. But your judgment is quite often correct, though. Can we discuss eating sushi, perhaps? You are making a student work late, after all.
-Conveyor belt only.
His face twisted in disappointment as she only gave a crept smirk.
—
Café Leblanc
Evening
—
-The traffic was turbulent today. I couldn't open my café today…
-Sorry about that.
-Whatever… So, how was it?
-What?
-The school, I mean. Think you can manage it?
-We'll see. It sounds fun though.
-Do you even understand your situation?
-I'm trying to be optimistic. I know my situation…
-Still, you were expelled once already. To think it's gonna be different at that one… It's not like anyone will be sympathetic to you.
-I know… I know…
-… If that's what it was like that at school, people might say stuff about me in the future too… What a troublesome kid I've taken…
-Just a question. If you don't like that much, why did you become my guardian?
-I was asked to do it, and I just… agreed. Besides I'm been paid for this.
-Thanks for being earnest… — Ren said annoyed, averting his eyes to the door.
-By the way, I need to give something to you. Let's head upstairs.
They went to the attic and Sojiro took a small notebook from his pocket.
-Here. It's a diary. Make sure you keep it updated. — He said as he threw the diary at the desk. — You may be on probation, but there are no special limitations on what you do, that is besides following the law. However, I'm obligated to report about you, which is why I need you to record your diary activities.
"That explains the diary, although I knew it was for that reason."
-Okay. I'll keep updated.
Sojiro heard his phone ring and he answered the call.
-Hey, what's up? Yeah, I'm about to leave right now. Don't worry. I'll be there in no time. Uh-huh. I'll see you soon. — Sojiro ended the call. — Well, I'm off. I'll lock the store, so do whatever you want for the rest of the night. But don't mess up my store. If something goes missing, I'll call the cops.
-Okay.
-You should rest. You have school tomorrow. Bye.
-Bye.
Sojiro went off and Ren walked to his bag.
"I should write now. I have nothing better to do after all…"
Ren wrote everything since his arrival in his diary. After he finished, he heard something ring.
"That's not from my phone. It's coming from downstairs."
Ren went downstairs and found the yellow phone ringing. He took the phone and answered the call.
-Hey, it's me.
-Mr. Sakura?
-Yes, it's me. Did you forget my voice already?
-No, I thought it was a prank.
-I see… Anyway… — Sojiro sighed — I closed up the shop, but I forgot to flip the sign to closed when I left. Is too troublesome for me to go back. Can you do that for me?
-Course I can.
-Thanks. But I doubt any customers are gonna come now, even if the signs flipped to open.
-I see…
-I have to say, it's quite a relief you answered the phone. I thought you're already asleep.
-I see… But why you don't have my number? I'm under your guard now.
-Sorry, but is my personal policy of mine not to save a guy's number on my phone.
-Oh… "Seriously? I really think I should be an exception of that personal policy since I'm under your guard now…"
-I'm glad you actually picked up. Anyway, I leave the shop sign duty to you. Bye.
Sojiro ended the call and Ren put the phone back on in its place. After that, he flipped the sign to "closed".
"There's nothing to do, but is it better to do that for now."
Ren went back to the attic and changed into his pajamas. He laid on his bed and checked the news.
"There is a lot of news about these accidents… That last one left too many people hurt… That makes the lines change. Now, I need to take the train tomorrow, then I go to Shibuya and I will go to Aoyama, from then I…"
Then he saw the weird app on the phone menu once again.
"That came back… I had deleted this app twice. Better reboot my phone if that app came back." Ren snorted. — "Time to sleep."
Ren closed his eyes and an hour later, he fell asleep.
—
April, 11. Monday
Café Leblanc
Morning
—
Ren finished wearing his uniform, and quickly checked his phone one last time before he went downstairs.
"Everything's ready. Better go now or I'll be late."
Ren went inside the shop, and saw Sojiro on his bench, waiting for him with a plate.
-Good morning.
-Good morning. I thought you're not going to school.
-Well, I need to go. I'm on probation after all.
-True. — Sojiro gave Ren a plate with food. — Here's your breakfast. Eat before the clients start to come in.
-My breakfast… Is curry? — Ren asked confused.
-What's wrong? There's any problem with that?
-No, but…
-Just eat already.
-Okay.
Ren sat on the bench and took a sip of the plate.
"These flavors… This spiciness… It tastes absolutely delicious!"
Ren ate his breakfast with all the pleasure. He never had eaten something so much delicious since his arrest. After finish, he gave his plate to Sojiro.
-It was truly delicious. I never have eaten something like that before.
-I appreciate it. — Sojiro answered, with a proud smile. — You better run or you'll be late.
-Ok.
-Don't get lost, country boy. Oh, flip the sign to "Open" for me, please.
-Right.
Ren exited Leblanc and flipped the sign. After that, he rushed to the Yongen-Jaya Station and took the train to the Shibuya Station. Once he arrived at the station, he went to the upper part of Shibuya Station, picking the Ginza Line. Due to the accidents, the train car became too crammed with people, forcing Ren to support himself against the door.
"The situation is worse than I thought. Those accidents are causing a big problem…"
—
April, 11. Monday.
Aoyama-Itchome District
Early Morning
—
Ren arrived at the Aoyama Station and quickly went off the car, rushing to the nearest exit. Once in the streets, he noticed it was raining.
"Great, I forgot my umbrella."
Staying under a shop loft he waited for the rain to lose strength, so he could go on his way to Shujin Academy. He noticed the weird app came back.
"Again!? How?"
While Ren was waiting for the rain to stop and trying to make his phone works, a girl came from the street and went under the same loft as him. She dried her clothes as she could and then took her hood off, revealing her natural blonde hair. Ren was astounded to see someone with her appearance.
"She's beautiful. I never saw someone with natural locks like her. Although I doubt someone like her wants to talk to me."
A car stopped in front of them and the front window opened. A man smiled at both teenagers.
-Good morning. You want me to give you a ride to school? You're gonna be late.
-Um, sure. Thank you.
She gets into his car and the man snaps his attention to Ren.
-And you? Do you need a lift too? — He asked.
-No. Thank you. — Ren answered, waving his hand in the negative. Before the car window closed, Ren noticed the girl's expression changed.
"She looks concerned about taking a lift with him…"
The car went down the street and a blonde vulgar boy rushed following them.
-Dammit! Screw that pervy teacher! — Said the blondie.
-Pervy teacher…? — Ren asked confused. Without both the teenager's knowledge, the weird app was listening to what they saying. The blonde turned to Ren, staring with a furious glance.
-What do you want? Are you plannin' to rattin' me to Kamoshida?
-Kamoshida? Who is Kamoshida? — Ren asked, even more confused.
-That guy in the car just now. He's Kamoshida.
-Oh, I see... — Ren answered. "So his name is Kamoshida…" — Do you don't like him?
-Yeah, I don't like him 'cause he does whatever the hell he wants. Does he think he's a king of a castle? Don't you agree?
-Eh… The king of a castle?
-No… I mean… Wait. You're from Shujin, right? — The blonde asked looking at Ren's clothes.
-So, you're a student from Shujin too?
-That's the only school that uses that uniform. Are you messin' with me? — The blonde asked irritated.
"Great one Amamiya. You gonna get a punch for free."
-No… I…
The blonde punk saw the yeah badge on Ren's blazer.
-Second-year, huh? You're the same grade as me. Never seen you 'round here though.
-Yes, I was transferred recently.
-Oh, a new student. — The blonde punk said in a comprehensive way. — That explains why you don't know Kamoshida. Sorry 'bout that.
-Don't worry. I'm okay.
The blonde looked at the sky.
-The rain ain't too bad. We better hurry up, or we'll be late.
-Okay.
They started to walk then suddenly they felt a headache.
"My head…! It was like before…" Ren thought, putting his hand on his head.
-Nnn… My head hurts.
-Mine too.
-You too? — The blondie sighed. — Dammit… I wanna go home…
-Yeah. Me too…
—
Unknown Place
Unknown Time
—
-Stop.
Ren stopped talking as Sae ordered him. He tried to keep himself awake with all his strength he got left.
-We're running out of time, Prosecutor Niijima. — Ren answered, calmly. Sae ignored his comment, as she pulled a file inside her bag.
-…There was a terrible subway accident that day. You remember it, don't you?
-Kind of…
-I assume you know of the uproar the public calls the "psychotic breakdowns incidents".
-Maybe I heard about it, but I don't see where I was involved in these incidents, prosecutor Niijima.
-I already knew you going to say that. You are saying that like it was none of your business. It was all over the news, and one of the victims included a teacher from your high school. I've no doubt you heard about it. On that day… were you still an "ordinary" student?
-I still don't get what do you want with me right now, Ms. Niijima.
-Let me change the question. You were transferred to Shujin, correct?
-Correct.
-An ordinary prep school that could be found in any city… That's what it should've been. What happened around that time? Tell me everything. Truthfully.
Ren sighed, feeling tired.
-Okay, I'll tell you. But I should warn you: You're not going to believe in me. Trust me.
—
April, 11. Monday.
Aoyama-Itchome District. Shujin Academy
Early Morning
—
Ren, following the blondie punk, walked together into an alley, in the direction of Shujin Academy while checking his own phone. After a few minutes following him, Ren heard the blondie yelling surprised.
-What!?
Ren walked in his direction.
-Hey, what's…
He stopped, looking for the cause of the surprise of the blondie punk. An old feudal European castle is in the place of the modern building of the Shujin Academy. The construction was so huge it can be seen clearly from a certain distance.
-…wrong… Wow.
Ren stared at the castle. Clearly, that construction wasn't there yesterday, and it was impossible for it to be constructed in one single night. Ren and the blondie punk looked astounded at the castle, without any reaction.
"Okay… That wasn't there yesterday. What's going on here…"
-Dude…We didn't… we didn't take the wrong way though… — Said the blondie.
-Well, I'm sure that's a mistake.
-No. This should be right. What goin' on here…?
-I'm lost like you.
-I guess we'll just have to go and ask.
-Yeah… They probably have a good explanation for this.
Both walked to the castle and as they enter the castle's area, the area distorted itself, revealing the Shujin Academy at the same place, as the castle is still there.
—
Mysterious Castle
Main Hall
—
-Th-That's weird… Where's the school?
-Well, it should be here. Maybe we went the wrong way?
-No. We didn't. It should be here.
-Okay…
The blondie grabbed his phone.
-Out of service? Where'd we end up? Dude, check your phone.
Ren took his phone from his pocket.
-No service as well. Where are we?
-The sign was for the school, right?
-Of course, it was here, but… — Ren toyed with a lock of his hair, clearly nervous.
-Right!? You saw it too!
-Yeah, but that didn't change the fact we're not in the school. Damn, I'm confused…
The attention of both was caught by a knight coming in their direction, wearing full armor, and a weird blue mask covering his face.
-Geez, you almost freaked me out… — Said the blondie. He sighed in relief. — Who're you? You a student.
-Hey, I don't think he's a student. — Ren whispered to the blondie, as he took a step away.
-Man, your costume's impressive… Is your armor real? — The blondie asked as he approached the knight.
"Okay, first the castle, now that knight?"
-Hey…
-C'mon say somethin'. Don't just stand there.
-Hey! — Ren whispered once again.
-What?
-Look. Another one…!
-…H-Hey, what's goin' on? — The blondie asked taking a certain distance from the knights, who walked towards both Ren and him. Both teenagers quickly glanced at the entrance.
-Okay, I'm sure this isn't a prank. It's too real for that. — Ren states as he tried to approach the entrance discretely.
-True. Better we get outta here. — The blondie dodged the attack of one of the knights. — C-Calm down, dude! Time out!
The other knight attacked the blondie, but he dodged that as well.
-This shit's real! Run!
Both ran to the entrance, but two other guards were in the way.
-Dammit! We're surrounded! — Ren said, trying to figure another way to escape.
-Ugh, what's with these guys!?
-I don't wanna know. Try to find an open spot so we can escape and…
-Look out!
The blondie pushed Ren and got hit by one of the guards.
-No!
Ren rushed in his direction and tried to help him, but he was hit as well. After that, both of them fainted due to the blow they received.
—
Mysterious Castle
Unknown Area
Morning
—
-…Hey. Hey! Wake up!
-Ugh.
Ren stood up, and he felt a pain on his left side. Massaging the area, he looked around.
-Ugh, my head… My side…
-You all right? — The blondie asked.
-Yes. I'm going to be okay. And you?
-I can handle it… — The blondie looked around the place they are. Both know they are inside a prison cell — Looks like this ain't no dream…
-Yeah… Looks like we're inside a dungeon. — Ren commented, examining the place.
-Ugh, what's goin' on!? — The blond went to the bars and started to yell. — Hey, let us outta here! I know there's someone out there!
-It's useless… — Ren said. — We should wait.
-Dammit, where are we? Is it some kinda movie set!? — The blondie asked.
-As I said, we are inside a dungeon, and I really doubt that's a movie set.
Both heard a scream coming from outside the cell. Both rushed to the bars and paid more attention to the screams.
-Th-the hell was that just now?
-Looks like someone is being… — Ren's eyes widened in shock as he heard the screams. — …tortured!
-Whoa… Whoa, Whoa, Whoa, Whoa… You're shittin' me, right?
-No, as much I want to be a lie, I'm not lying.
-This is really bad…! Isn't there some way outta here!? C'mon, we gotta do something.
-We can look around for secret passages. But I doubt there is any secret path here. — Ren said analyzing the cell.
-At least we had to try.
Both looked around, trying to get some way out of the cell.
-Hey, these chains…
-Yes. They lock the prisoners and they torture them.
-This shit ain't funny!
Ren looked at the barrels.
-There's something inside the barrels?
-Nope. They're empty. You think we…?
-No. They could deduce that easily. Better keep looking. — Ren stared at the uncomfortable beds. — How long have we been knocked out?
-I don't know. Seriously, these guys.
-At least we weren't killed.
-At least that. Dammit, this doesn't make any freakin' sense…
Both heard steps and voices, as someone approaches their cell.
"It's too late…"
-Hey, did you hear that?
-Yes.
Two guards stopped in front of their cell, and a third came from behind.
-I'm the captain of the guard. Be glad your punishment has been decided upon.
"Impressive! I never thought I was going to get a verdict without a fair trial" Ren thought sarcastically.
-For the charge of "Unlawful entry", I shall hereby declare both guilty. — The guard annunciated. — Thus, the punishment for that is death.
-What!? — Ren asked surprised.
-Say what!? — Ryuji asked frightened.
-No one's allowed to do as they please in my castle. — Said a familiar voice.
To the surprise of both, it was Kamoshida, who looked totally different from his usual self.
-Huh? Wait… Is that you Kamoshida?
-Kamoshida…? — Ren asked, doubtful. "He looks like him… No. Something's different. His eyes…"
-I thought it was some petty thief, but to think it'd be you, Sakamoto… Are you trying to disobey me again? It looks like you haven't learned your lesson after at all, huh? — Kamoshida snapped to Ren. — And you brought a friend this time… because you can't do anything for yourself.
-This ain't funny, you asshole! — Sakamoto said, angry;
-Let's out of here, right now! — Ren ordered.
-Is that how you two speak to a king? It seems you two don't understand the position you're in at all. Not only did you two sneaked into my castle, but you also committed the crime of insulting me—The king.
-Let me guess…
-Yes. The punishment for that is death. — Kamoshida's face twisted in anger, and waved his scarlet cloak, revealing he was only wearing a pink trunk. — It's time for execution! Take him out!
"Gross… That's my last view before I die!?" Ren thought, with disgust to see Kamoshida like that.
Both Ren and Sakamoto walked away as the guards entered the cell and surrounded them.
-Shit!
-…Goddammit!
Going by impulse, Sakamoto knocked down one of the guards.
-I ain't down for this shit! C'mon, we're outta here! — Sakamoto said after Ren knocked down the other guard.
-Look out, Sakamoto!
The blondie was punched by one of the guards, being knocked out in the process. The guard who knocked him down started to step on him.
-Leave him alone!
Ren grabbed the guard who was stepping on Sakamoto and tried to pull him away.
-Owwww…
-Just go…! Get out of here! These guys are serious.
-I'm not going to let them kill you, Sakamoto! — Ren said, convicted.
-Oh? Running away, are we? What a heartless friend you are.
-Shut up! — Said Ren.
-He ain't a friend. — Ryuji said surprising Ren. — C'mon! Hurry and go!
-No!
-What's the matter? Too scared to run away?
-No. I'm not letting you kill him, your heartless coward! — Ren answered, with anger.
-Hmph, a pathetic scum like you doesn't worth my time… I'll focus on this on execution… — Kamoshida said with an evil grin.
One of the guards grabbed Ren and threw him against a wall. Two of them grabbed Sakamoto by his arms, and the other two hold Ren by his wrists. Kamoshida started to punch Sakamoto without mercy, beating him with more strength after each punch he blows.
-Take this! Lowly scum! Useless pest!
After hitting him several times, the guards dropped Sakamoto and Kamoshida stepped on his head. Splitting on his face, he laughed.
-…Hmph. Where'd your energy from earlier go? A peasant like you isn't worth beating. I'll have you killed right now.
-Stop it! Have you lost your mind!? You're not a king, just a criminal! — Ren shouted.
-Hm…? What? — Kamoshida asked coming toward Ren. — Don't dare you to tell me you don't know who I am. — Kamoshida stared at Ren's eyes for a brief moment. He was with a calm expression, but with a furious glance towards him. — That look at your eyes irritates me!
Kamoshida kicked Ren in the stomach, making him lose his breath. Ren stumbled over, trying to stand up.
-Hold him there… After the peasant, it's his turn to die.
-No! — Ren rushed towards the executor's direction, but he was pressed against the wall by two of the guards.
-No… I don't wanna die… — Sakamoto said while trying to stay on his feet.
Ren resisted as he tried to stop the execution. Then everything froze as he heard a mysterious voice.
This is truly an unjust game… Your chances of winning are almost none.
Ren saw the source of the voice, surprised that it had come from a butterfly.
But if my voice is reaching you, there may yet be a possibility open to you…
Ren in shock came back to his senses, he heard a voice come from his mind.
What's to matter? Are you simply going to watch?
"Who… Who are you!?"
Are you forsaking him to save yourself?
"No, but…"
You should know… Death awaits him if you do nothing.
"But… But what can I do? I'm powerless!"
Then was your previous decision a mistake then?
"! No…! No, It wasn't…"
The guard grabbed Sakamoto by his neck and it was ready to kill him. Ren started to fight to get himself free.
Very well… I have heeded your resolve.
Ren felt a huge pain inside his head, making him yell, while he heard the voice from his head.
Now… Vow to me.
"Vow… To you…?"
I am thou, thou art I…
"You… are me?"
Thou who art willing to perform all the sacrilegious act for thine own justice! Call upon my name, and release thy rage!
Ren yelled once again in pain.
Show the strength of thy will to ascertain all on thine own, though thou be chained to Hell itself!
Ren lifted up his face and stared at Kamoshida.
-Execute him! — Kamoshida said with all his pleasure.
-That's enough!
-What was that?
-Stop! Or I will stop you!
Kamoshida turned to Ren in anger.
-You desire to be killed that much? Fine. Execute him!
The Shadow hit Ren on his face, throwing his glasses away. Them they hold Ren by the neck, using their spears.
"I'm not going to give up! I will save both of us!"
Kamoshida was ready to give his order to execute, but a blowing wind pushed all the guards away from Ren. Ren felt something awake inside him, ready to unleash.
"Now I understand. It's my power. My other self." He thought, lifting up his head, revealing a mask on his face. Grabbing his mask tightly, as he tried to take the mask off. "I need to take it off. I need to take off my mask. To release my other self!"
Ren ripped off the mask of his face. Blood splattered around the floor, and on Ren's outfit. Then his face recovered from the wound and a blue flame covered Ren, taking a humanoid form. The figure rose up, revealing Ren was wearing now a black 19th-century outfit and red gloves. The flames revealed a humanoid creature, with an outfit similar to Ren's, with the difference he was wearing a scarlet red and black suit, a cravat, and a hat and a mask with two demoniac distorted horns. The creature's face was made of red flames on his mask. He was surrounded by chains, who he broke it without difficulty, making another windblast, sending the guards away.
-Wha… What the…?
Kamoshida ran away while Sakamoto stared frighten at Ren and at the creature. Ren gave a malicious smile.
"To awake my Persona!"
"I did it! But who…?"
-I'm the pillager of twilight — "Arsene"!
-What the… — Sakamoto said, utterly surprised.
-I'm the rebel soul that resides within you.
-I believe that explains everything.
-Yes. If you desire, I shall consider granting you the power to break through this crisis.
-You are me. You should have given me your power already I believe.
Arsene grunted proudly.
-Very well… I will aid you; you are me after all.
-Who the hell are you? — Kamoshida asked, in shock.
-I'm the one you never wished to cross paths.
-Guards! Start by killing that one.
-Arsene, let's do this.
-Of course.
The guards transformed themselves, assuming monstrous forms.
-You'll learn the true strength of my men!
The battle started and Ren dodged the attacks from the guards.
-This power of mine is yours! Kill them however you want. Run wild to your heart's content!
-And finish them off! Arsene! Eiha!
Arsene made a pillar of dark energy rise, killing one of the guards. The other guard rushed and attacked Ren, hitting him in the process, but not causing much damage to him.
-Now, finish him!
-And tear him apart.
Ren drew his knife and attacked the guard. After dodge another attack, Ren finished him. After that Arsene stared at Ren.
-When you need to, call me. I am always within you.
Arsene disappeared and Ren approached Sakamoto.
-Are you alright, Sakamoto? — Ren asked, lending a hand to help the blonde.
-Yeah, I am. — He said after he stood up. — What… What was that just now?
-I don't know exactly… And my clothes.
Ren looked at himself, trying to understand as well what was going on with him.
"I… fought and won against these… creatures… Arsene."
Kamoshida grabbed Ren by his shirt.
-You little…
Before he could complete the sentence, Sakamoto punched him and pushed him against the wall, knock him down.
-You like that, you son of a bitch!?
-Sakamoto, the keys!
-You mean this?
-Yes.
Both teenagers went off the cell and locked Kamoshida inside.
-Okay, it's locked!
-Damn you!
To their surprise, Kamoshida stood up and tried to grab the keys. Sakamoto walked away.
-Hey! What was that just now!?
-I don't know exactly as I said.
-And… your clothes…
-Yes I…
Ren's clothes went back to normal, to the surprise of both.
-Whoa, it went back to normal!?
-Yeah… I…
Kamoshida tried to grab the keys once again, scaring both the teenagers.
-You bastards! Free me! That's an order
-God, this's effin' nuts!
-True. Let's get out of here!
- Let's scram! You lead the way! — Sakamoto said, throwing the keys away.
-Okay. Stay close to me.
They ran away while Kamoshida was cursing both.
-Run! You two better run away while you can! I'll gonna kill both of you, with my bare hands!