A/N: This is another lighter chapter, helping get your feet wet as more new characters will appear over time. For now, we're just getting past characters back into the spotlight as well as highlighting more of Homare's... growing problems. Now, to make one thing clear, Vocarin and I, alongside probably many others, is that Souji's(And Joker's too now that I think about) parents are not that good of people most likely. However, I didn't want to go to the both are really bad parents camp. Homare's work is affecting her, as you'll soon see, but she isn't a bad person. And again, I don't know how Vocarin's Souji's Parents stories are going to conclude, so maybe that helps me distinguish them in the long run. Alright, so let's start adding some of the pieces on the board! Here's Chapter 2 of our double-whammy story opener!

Chapter 2

3/22

Souji was clocked out for far longer than he should. Typically he sleeps from either 11PM to midnight if there was no Midnight Channel to be on the lookout for. But after the days he's had, it's no wonder he was out like a light. He didn't wake up until after 9AM. The young man actually went to bed before 11PM, earlier than his usual sleep schedule, but it seems the exhaustion from that last battle and the trip back here to Roppongi compounded on one another… he still felt like he could sleep some more, but it's best not to do that and get ready for the day.

After his morning routine, he heads down the stairs and arrives at the Kitchen to see his mother trying to make breakfast on her own. It's been too long since she made something for him.

"Good morning, Mother."

"Good morning, my son. You were still sleeping, so I decided to make this on my own. I didn't want to wake you up; I noticed you had a look of exhaustion on your face before bed. I recommend a warm bath and not a shower tonight-" Still with her same old synthetic way of talking. And her habit of talking about every minute detail. "I'm making sunny side up eggs; is that okay with you?"

"Yes, I'm fine with that." He could see the toaster already pressed down, and bacon on a different pan. Suddenly, he got hit by some year long deja-vu. Are sunny side up eggs a Dojima family special? He isn't going to ask and find out about that, however... It's not worth the elaborations.

As the two began to sit down and eat breakfast, she came in with coffee in each hand.

"Here you are. You wanted yours black, I take it?"

"I'll put some sugar and cream."

"Oh, your tastes have changed? I assumed Ryo would have furthered you down the bitter path."

"No… his daughter is responsible for that."

"Ah, yes… she's…" The name of the little one escaped the Aunt's mind. A rare error on her part.

"Nanako."

"Ah, yes. Nanako should be about 7 years old at this point, yes?"

"That's correct."

"She's quite mature for liking coffee at such an age."

"That, she is." He tried to blow off the fact she forgot her own niece's name like that, biting into his piece of toast.

"Tell me something; how is Ryo holding up after… the incident." She had a rare moment of slowing down and trailing off with her words.

"You mean when Aunt Chisato was murdered?"

"Yes. It was tragic when I first heard about Chisato's death..." Souji does recall that day… to him, it was the last time his parents seemed human in his eyes. It was the last time he saw extreme emotions. That day when that news made the headlines in Tokyo of places; his mom cried and even his overly stoic, stone faced father shed tears. When they came back from the funeral days later, they felt changed as time moved on. And it's only gotten worse. He was alone at home for that week. Sure, he had a sitter take care of him, but he still felt bothered for not going. Especially in hindsight now that Nanako was such an important figure in his life. But he can't help but wonder if she knows about last year's incident.

"Mother… were you aware of what happened in Inaba?"

"Hm? I'm not sure what you mean."

She does not know. She really doesn't know?

"The double murder incident in Inaba. You never heard of it?"

"Oh, yes, that. I heard, but when I asked Ryo about it weeks ago, he assured me you were safe."

"And you weren't concerned for me?"

"Of course I was. That's why I had Ryo confirm it for me."

"And you didn't want to ask me?"

"He informed me you were spending time with Nanako and an 'Amagi-san'. You seemed content given that situation so I believed it best to refrain from disturbing you."

"Did he tell you anything else about Nanako?"

"...Was something wrong with her?"

She really didn't bother to ask. Not about Nanako's condition during the incident or who Amagi was. For all he knew, she must have forgotten what the name Amagi meant to Inaba. A quiet, disdainful feeling grew within his heart… no, he should let this go. His anger would be wasted.

"It's nothing. Pay me no mind."

"Very well, then." She had refrained from further questions to continue eating. He tolerated her much more than his dad, but… he felt her old self being covered up by this… machine-like version persona that was taking a small piece of her away every day.

"Son. Are you… happy for your time in Inaba?"

"...What brought this on?" He was surprised to see her bothering to even ask.

"Ryo says you made a lot of friends. Is that true?"

"...Yes."

"Wonderful. You formed friends, but it's unfortunate they will not be with you here. Still, do you wish to visit them again?"

"...I'd like to."

"That's good. You don't have much time left as a highschool student. This is the most optimal time to pay them a visit."

He resisted the urge to sigh as she spoke about the best and worst times to try and return to Inaba. For a moment, he was hoping-anticipating that she would have some pride about her hometown. Maybe even ask if he liked certain aspects, or inquire if things changed. Nope, it just factored back into his future.

As they finished their breakfast, the doorbell rang. When the door was answered and opened, men with many boxes were there. The moving company has arrived!

"Seta Residence?"

"Yes, sir. Feel free to bring it in."

"We have some new furniture for you as well. We'll set them up, free of charge."

"Why, thank you. That is most appreciated." It seems Souji was a bit lucky. The heaviest things were going to be dealt with easier, but their old furniture was still up to them to move around.

After hours of getting things put in place on the first floor and getting the mattresses up on the second floor, they finally got the core pieces of furnishings up. Tomorrow will be for the extra things like paintings, smaller foliage, things of that nature.

The sun had begun its descent and Souji received a call from Yosuke about the new life situation… he did not take the news quietly.

"DUDE, FOR REAL!? Why are you in that fancy ass apartment?" When he sent pictures of the layout and the view outside his room, he got the call seconds later, Souji being cut off the moment he answered the phone.

"Calm down. I'm still shocked about it myself." He shrugged, the Leader standing outside to enjoy the spring breeze, wearing a light long sleeve shirt.

"Dude, my dad can't even afford that with his job. Your parents must be something else."

"Right…" He groaned to himself. Not this subject about his parents being so great in other people's eyes.

"You know, you never talked much about them. Are they why you're so smart and stuff? It makes sense they just proved they're amazing at their jobs."

"Hm; I'd like to think my achievements are my own. Not thanks to them." His tone took a turn.

"Yo, everything alright, dude? Hope I didn't cross a line." In Yosuke's mind, he would find that odd coming from Souji of all people.

"It's fine…" He's changing the subject. "So, how is everyone holding up since I left?"

"Well… I think Kanji and Rise are missing you already. Naoto I heard is just taking time off before picking up cases again. Teddie's back here already, wanting snacks." That and he had shifts to cover. "Chie and I finally are going out on a date."

"After so long? I expected you two to have been on some already."

"Yeah, with the murders and what with you leaving soon, we wanted to wait until that was all done. Now I'm going to make a serious effort with her."

"That's good. Have you decided where to go?"

"Uhhh…" Oh, it's a great thing Souji has a chair pulled out here. This will be interesting. "I'm not sure where to take her. She isn't like your average girl, so the standard dinner and a movie feels even more lame."

"That's so…."

"Well, what did you and Yukiko do then, hm!? Must be nice, Playboy!" Souji was cut off, but finding this entertaining already.

"I took her to the movies."

"Oh, come on, man! When you do it, it's cool, but me? They'll call me lame for that!"

"Do the opinions of outsiders really matter? They shouldn't. Look, my one bit of advice for you is to try something more proactive. Like… something that would have you both put in effort for."

"Hmmm. Oh!" The idea hit him. "Something like in those American films where the guy takes the girl on a date to a local carnival or something?"

"Yeah, that's… a really good idea actually."

"Hmm, but we don't actually get those types of things here."

"Well, as long as you get the idea in your head, you can figure the rest out."

"Well, that's true." Yosuke pondered, racking his brain until something came to him. "Gah! I'll figure it out later." He groaned, feeling close to an idea, but so far away all the same. "Whatever, so what's good in Tokyo? Any sights you get to take in yet?"

"Uh, no. I'm still unpacking everything."

"Oh, right."

The two would ramble on for another ten minutes before Souji had to go and make Dinner. Tomorrow, he had some shopping to do. He needed a study desk and a chair for his room. He has a bed, and some drawers for storing clothes that are not in season. He just needs the other essentials. And a chance to actually leave this place and get himself reacquainted with the City.

3/29

Yukiko had just acquired herself something new. As a gift from her parents, she now has a smartphone! Though she wasn't too familiar with how it was used, at least they helped transfer over her contacts at the store in Okina. And her phone number was preserved!

Yosuke was familiar with these as he had one since the year started. Maybe she could ask him… no, he's probably too busy. She knew how to make calls, and texting will take some getting used to compared to her old flip phone. If only someone was around who could help her.

She shook her head, stepping outside to get some air by the interior garden and it was here, she would find the support she was looking for!

Someone else seemed to be taking in the twilight colors… a familiar member of the cooking staff, looking down at the Koi pond.

"Is that you, Masato-kun?"

The chef was surprised and quickly turned around, not expecting company here at this time.

"Yukiko-sama!?"

"Oh, it is you. I… wait, why do you refer to me like that?" She found herself perplexed by the use of "sama". That is usually used for doctors, nobility in days of old, and with some Master and servant relationships.

"Well, your mother insisted we treat you with more respect since you plan to inherit the Inn one day in the future. So… I feel that is appropriate. Is it a problem?"

"I wouldn't say it is. Technically, that's the respectful way to address an Okami of the Inn as an employee. But, I'm not taking over for a while." The only reason Kaede let's it slide is because she prefers they not call her that these days.

"I see. Would you prefer I not refer to you as that? I don't feel it is proper to address you casually." They were merely a Staff member and the Boss' daughter, after all.

"Nonsense! You're friends with Souji-kun. Does that not make you friends with me too?" It felt like she was twisting his arm with the way she spoke. It's almost like Rise guilting you into giving her what she wants.

"I uh, didn't want to presume too much, Yukiko-sama, I mean, Yukiko-san."

"Sounds like you made it a habit." She shook her head, eyes closed for a moment. "Well… if it's while we're working, I can deal with it. But we are friends, so I prefer that you not refer to me like that while we're like this."

"Very well, then. Well, may I ask if things are well, Yukiko-san?"

"Well, actually…" She just recalled something from before! "Do you have a smartphone?"

"Oh, uh, yeah. Why? Are you considering getting one?" He had reached into his right pocket, fishing out his smartphone to show he does indeed possess one.

"My Father got one for me today. That's why I started so late. We spent all morning getting it set up and my contacts imported. My number remains the same too!"

"That's good. So, you need help using it?"

"Something like that. I know how to make phone calls, but everything else is so… foreign to me." She was no Boomer, as technology wasn't naturally hard for her to understand. But this was a completely different kind of phone. How letters in the Japanese print and its varied forms are used are different here than on a flip phone. The fact that there were no buttons on the front of the phone, being purely a touch screen fascinated the Heiress.

"Hm, I have no problems with that! How about we work on it now? I don't helping you out."

"Truly? Thank you, Masato-kun! I appreciate it!" She smiled with a brightness that rivaled her own Persona. "Is your break almost over?"

"No, I got some time. And if we need to keep picking this up next time and beyond, I can deal with that."

"Thank you! You're so kind, Masato-kun. I'm so glad you're here with us." His eyes would break contact with her for a split second. "You've truly been a good help for us."

"It's no problem, Yukiko-san… Well, what would you like to know how to use first?"

Yukiko's friendship with Masato would grow from here on. No longer were they just a soon to be Manager and Employee, but friends. Masato himself was finally establishing himself here. He had made friends with most of the guys he went with to the arcade; he had not seen Rise since then, and he was a bit too nervous to ask to keep in contact with the Former most popular idol in Japan. You know, normal reactions and expectations from a young man such as himself. But now, Yukiko would add to his list of new friends. After many months, it finally felt like he was growing to be a part of the community. Now, to wait and see what will become of that in the near future.

4/04

Souji and his Mother have returned from acquiring new phones in Akihabara, as well as a new Laptop for her work. She had returned to financial duties a few days after Souji had returned home, but Homare made up for lost time already! She's the pinnacle of productivity and efficiency. And yet, Souji had recalled the days his Mother would take him out in days of old just for him, because they were a family; not for something attached to progress or work, or anything like that. It makes him recall Dojima's own struggles. They both drown themselves in work, but one did that as a coping mechanism. What's her excuse?

The two would enter the apartment complex, the front clerk calling for them to come closer.

"Yes? Is there something we can help you with, Ito-san?" Naturally, his mother was the one who spoke up first.

"Yes; Seta-san, there is a package I have here." She would bend down and into the large desk that surrounded her, lifting up an adequate sized box and placing it before them.

"It's labeled from the High School that your son here attends to."

"Ah. That must be the new uniforms they promised to send. Excellent. Thank you, Ito-san. We appreciate your support."

"It's no trouble. Have a good day, Seta-san."

Souji picked up the box, carrying it back to his apartment, as he and his mother would return to their respective sides of the apartment. Souji placed the box inside his closet, opting to open the package of clothes later. There are still a few days left until the third semester begins. There is not much time until his final chapter of school life would open.

After a long bath in the other bathroom, he would sit on his small loveseat, only some clothes put on. She was right about before, a nice, long bath felt great. He still felt a lingering sense of soreness, but perhaps he'll follow her advice once more and take a trip downstairs for that quality massage at the spa section. She hasn't been wrong, yet. He could definitely use it. Although he could only assume his friends also were in need of this long rest period. Unfortunately for them, they start school on the tenth; and he begins the next day.

Glancing over to see his new phone, a small blue light would blink every few seconds. Looks like he got a message while he was gone. Ah, but he just got comfortable…

After a moment of contemplation, he got up reluctantly to see who it was.

It was Yukiko…

Now he quickly pulls up the message to see what it was, regretting not checking sooner. When he sees it, he notes there's an image attached to it.

{Souji-kun! Masato-kun has been helping me learn how to use this new phone I got. Today, he helped me take a picture to send to you with his own camera. Mine on my phone was a bit too blurry. I hope you like it.}

When he clicked the attachment, from the top-downwards did it load onto his screen… It was Yukiko herself holding an umbrella, a slightly darker salmon color in contrast to her own Pink Kimono. Her body was twisting to her left slightly, looking directly into the camera from a moderate distance, just far enough to where it captures both her full figure alongside the outdoor area, the pond ahead of her hard to miss due to what looked to be the early afternoon sun making it a bright backdrop.

…He owes Masato big time for this. This was a stunning photograph! Was he in a Photography club while he was in high school? This was taken on what looked to be a proper camera, but it's likely he sent the file to her phone and now, to Souji himself.

A moment passes before he's snapped back out of his hypnotic daze, finding the need to reply to her.

{You're beautiful. You both took a wonderful picture, Yukiko. Give Masato my regards.}

It didn't take her long before she would send a reply back.

{He's helped me learn how to download things. I can also watch videos online like the one of our concert! Rise-chan gave me the link to it. You looked so handsome smiling with that guitar Yosuke-kun lent you.}

{Too bad the song didn't have many notes for your Saxophone. I would have loved to hear you play some more.}

{Yeah. I did have fun backing up Rise, at least!}

The two would exchange messages throughout the night, likely keeping each other up way longer than they should have been awake, admittedly.

4/07

Another bright day in Okina city was visible to all who walked its smooth, paved paths. Rise Kujikawa was no exception to this. In fact, such ideal weather put more pep in her step than usual. And this is even further exemplified as she is the one who is the most ideal of raising everyone's spirits through her actions, energy, and the way she expresses herself. She was outside the Studio her agency, Takura Productions, was using to train her and other local talents. She has been here since 8AM in the morning and the afternoon breeze was kind to her after a hard day's work. Minoru Inoue was her manager before she went on her near year long hiatus. And despite taking on the role of being Kanami's manager, he gladly took his old mantle of supporting Rise as her Manager as well; with gusto, even. He had planned to give her a ride to the station, but she wanted to walk. Considering how much more challenging rehearsing basic dance choreography felt.. She believed any chance to get some more stamina built up is best.

"Very well. Will you be okay for tomorrow?

"Of course. You think I'm making good progress so far?" Her head tilted, hoping for his honest thoughts.

"Absolutely. You're doing great!"

"Inoue-san…" She sounded like she was digging into him, wanting no sugarcoating in his words.

"Oh-uh, of course you've got some rust you need to shake off. But it's reasonable to expect that. I think with more training and a bit of stamina building exercise you should be at your old form right around Summertime." He had to make sure to put emphasis on the word 'stamina' since, you shouldn't bring up exercise around a girl so casually. He's walked this tightrope of dialogue time and time again.

"Hm… maybe I should get a bike…"

"Do you want us to provide you one?"

"No, it's better if I get one on my own. But… something tells me you might bring me one tomorrow, anyway."

Inoue gives out a modest laugh before changing the subject.

"Say, whatever happened to your uh," He coughed before resuming. "'Boyfriend'... if you don't mind me asking. Seta-san, was it?"

Her eyes rolled; she knew he didn't buy it back then.

"He's not my boyfriend. He was already dating another friend of ours by the time I had any interest." His eyes widened for a second; so she did see some interest in him like he thought. He had a feeling Seta went along with it for her sake, but she did have some feelings for him after all.

"I see. I apologize if I crossed any lines."

"Oh, no. It's fine, Inoue-san. I've put it behind me now." She said with a weak smile.

"If you say so. I know our media doesn't approve of such things, but…" Idol culture is quite scary and disappointing to anyone outside of the country. "But I won't oppose it if you want to date someone one day. I only ask you to be careful." Inoue was a very supportive manager, but this was quite risky considering the consequences if an Idol's relationship status was revealed. It wouldn't be just her who goes down if that news ever came out. Rise knew well what he meant by being careful, and the implications that it brings.

"Thank you. Maybe one day, but right now… there's no one who has my interest. And I want to focus on my comeback for now, anyway." Wanting to be in a relationship and being ready for one are two very different things. It would be wise for anyone to know this truth before pursuing one. Rise might be starting to understand this.

"That's fair. Well, I got to go back. Kanami is coming in for her rehearsals soon." Kanami's name weighed on Rise's mind a bit. She was closing in on Rise's peak before she stepped down in June. Was it... Envy? Or concern? She couldn't tell.

"Alright, then. Thanks for the support today, Inoue-san." She gave a formal bow before leaving the area, heading towards Okina Station for her trip home. With a final wave to his client, Inoue himself would head inside, having much more work to do.

Rise donned her orange dress, with black tights underneath to deal with the cool climate. Although, the sun made it much easier to deal with that. After minutes of walking, her thoughts would trail back to what Inoue mentioned near the end of their last conversation. Did she put it behind her? She did; at least, she told herself that. She doesn't feel upset or hold any ill will towards Yukiko. In fact, she can see how well he's grown from her compassion. The way he's grown as an individual… it's reflected not just on the battlefield, but the way he holds himself up, his mannerisms, his quiet confidence. And yes, she was fine with being single for now. Seeking a relationship isn't what life should be solely about. But she can't help but wonder… if she got with her Senpai, would things be different? She would be happier than anyone if she got with the handsome young man she had such a deep infatuation for… right?

She sighed as she could hear the noises and witness the bright lights from the arcade, her pace now slowing. Finding this was like successfully spelunking some treasure in a hidden cave. Some fun memories were here for her as she witnessed her Senpai win over Yosuke in a close race she only saw the second half of… only to see Yukiko attain the title of Speed Demon with how badly she crushed everyone else. She should have seen that coming given how fast Yukiko was going during their ski trip down the snowy slopes. The memories were flooding back to her now. Maybe when Golden week arrives, all of them can come over here for some fun. It might be nice to see Yukiko mop the floor with the guys again. Speaking of guys… that one young man who worked with Yukiko was there too. Masato Yoshida, was it? She was quick to remember names given her line of business, but it was just that Masato came off as… mysterious. Not like her Senpai, who had a more cool sense to it. She just didn't get a read on him. That's a skill in her mind. At first, she suspected him of being an Otaku of some degree, given that it was he who knew all the games so well and helped bring the others to the Arcade alongside Souji, but when she introduced herself to him, he took a few seconds to put the pieces together in regards to her public identity. Something that any Otaku would not do. So that impression got thrown out the window. Though she was a bit happy to see someone not know that side and just speak to her as Rise, and not simply Risette. His tone was a bit flaky at first, but the Idol chalked it up as mere Celebrity Shock. Yosuke was guilty of that initially. Regardless, she appreciated another who spoke to her so casually. Perhaps she can ask her Senpai to invite him when he returns. He may not be part of the Investigation Team, but she's curious to push more of Masato's buttons to see how he reacts next! With a smirk of mischief, she bounced along. Time to go back home!

?/?

Inside an unknown location, red mist was enveloping the area as a red manned boy was on all fours, trying to breathe through his mouth. He was panting for much needed oxygen as an echoing voice would ring.

"Now do you see? The truth of the land is that it shuns you. Your way of life is unwelcome in this society... Nay, the entire world would see you dead if you try to enforce your ideals"

His eyes were wide. Just what did he experience?

"You and I share a common goal. The destruction and rebirth of the world. And with you serving as my Confidant, as the one who can create echoes in both here and the other side, we can change the world in our image. A world you desire."

"Hahahaha…. Yes, I see it now… and I can get my vengeance…!"

"Of course. Your hatred. Our hatred gives us focus. We can defeat those who have wronged us… but only together. Now… are you ready to learn of what transpired last year?"

"...Yes."

"Very well. Receive my enlightenment and my power… Sho. We have much to prepare for..."

4/10

With Uniforms inspected and all hung up properly, school supplies in his bag, everything necessary was accounted for. Now, all that remains is to wait for the next day. Souji was not sure what to expect. Would anyone even remember him? He blended in well enough, but his class back then groaned at his sudden departure. He wasn't quite sure what to expect from everyone there in terms of reception.

But what he was sure of, is that this year is going to be just like last year, interesting and likely full of unexpected situations and outcomes. Especially when he gets his chances to return back to Inaba.

Ready or not, here comes Souji Seta…

Get ready, Kosei High School.

A/C: (Author's Commentary) Oh, were you expecting Shujin perhaps? Hell nah, I'm not going to go that obvious Kosei is interesting to me and I spent a lot of time trying to find where it might be located and I decided Roppongi itself fits since Yusuke would be close enough to everyone since Haru lives there as well. I also need to put another Disclaimer, I've never been to Japan, so I'm using both Persona 5, and people I know who have been there, as well as my own "research" to help as best I can. I will probably get locations and facts wrong, but I hope you all understand I am trying to make this feel as fitting as possible. Kosei as stated focuses on Academics and Art, unlike Shujin which focuses on Athletics.

Masato Yoshida is back, and will be growing more prominent as he is the key new player to this story! To those who are new, he was in the OYT starting from the Summer Festival arc and beyond. I did this to make him feel less of a forced OC since I've seen many of those get shoehorned into the main story itself and it dilutes it big time. Not anyone's fault nor am I slandering them for trying. I wanted last year for him to solely be about him becoming a presence among most of the team. Only Naoto and Teddie have not met him, but this is more than enough for him to get started. Since Souji is gone, he will be befriending the other characters like Yukiko, Yosuke, and onward. His time will come, trust me. Feel free to speculate if you wish, but I do want to know how you feel about him as we go along. His design is almost finalized too!

Rise is also going to be important for this story! I felt she was the weakest link besides Teddie(don't worry, he'll have his day too), so I'm making up for it here. You all can probably figure it out at this point. But one aspect I'm working on is her inferiority to Fuuka(Which to me, makes no sense). I don't know if I'll have her get her fighting form, but probably not. I know there were Rise fans, so I hope you're interested for her time to shine!

Today's musical reference is Passing Hours, a song from Persona 3 Dancing. A chill song for a chapter meant to help bring you all into the story.

Next time, we have Kosei High to get acquainted with! I hope you're all ready! Hope Souji can pull off wearing the color blue!