Chapter 7

05/30

It had been another long day at Yasogami, but now Yukiko Amagi had business with her parents and another family at her Inn... The historically rich Ichijo family. The Matriarch had requested word for a conference between the two most influential houses in Inaba. In the past, they had interacted many a time, in days of old; days that are long lost to the distant history of this town.

Yukiko was wearing her blue kimono, her parents also dressed as you would expect for ones to run a ryokan. A solid red Kimono for the Okami-san, and for her husband, a gray robe with black coat over it. They were to meet with the Ichijo family in a sort of meeting room; a room with a large table for two groups to sit down and discuss business, set in the center of the second floor from where the lobby was. It was used for both usage by private companies and for guests who needed a location with discretion in mind within the Inn. Behind the wall, the silhouettes of two figures appear with a third sitting by the door.

"Excuse me. The Ichijo family is here." It was Kasai who greeted them and brought the family before the Amagis.

"Let them enter." Sure enough, it was Kou Ichijo to the left, and to the right was a much older woman in a Lemon Yellow shaded Kimono. It was his grandmother; the two had arrived at long last.

"Amagi-san. It has been many years since I've seen this place. I see you all have been well."

"Oh, Ichijo-san, I can say the same for you. It has been too long. My Mother would have been ecstatic were she still here in town. Please, sit."

"Why, thank you. Come, Kou." She would bring the boy along, as she sat down as properly as she could. "I believe she's still enjoying retirement in Okinawa, yes?"

"Oh, yes. It's much deserved, I would say. She's currently enjoying it a bit too much. I wish she would come to see Yukiko graduate at least."

"Knowing your mother, she'll be here. I'll go drag her back from her cushy beach home if I must!"

Kaede laughs a boisterous laugh, different from Yukiko's outburst, this laughter hits a deeper intonation compared to her daughter's all over the place, uncontrollable variant.

"Now that I would like to see! I remember the days you and Mother would bicker like sisters."

"Ahaha, those were the days. My family takes all my time these days, but it is worth it." She would sigh, the time for reminiscing was unwinding. "Now, speaking of your daughter here, she looks more beautiful than when I last saw her!" Kou's face would shift, a look of unease was visible to Yukiko's eyes, but she needed to respond to the Matriarch.

"Thank you, ma'am. Your words mean much to me."

"Ah, and so well mannered! You raised her well. My grandson here, he is also very much supportive of our family traditions, albeit he has interest in that barbaric sport from the West."

"Grandmother, it's not bad at all! Stop that, please." Kou objected, but Akio, Yukiko's father, would speak up.

"You'll have to forgive your grandmother, Kou-san. She's a bit stung by the loss of Yasogami's original activities."

"Wait, we had other stuff?"

"Indeed. Back then, when your parents, Kaede, and myself were in school, we had traditional activities such as Kendo and Archery."

"Those are proper sports!" Matriarch Ichijo would cut herself into the conversation. "The fact they got rid of them to keep the youth 'involved' upsets me to this very day." She needed to take a moment to compose herself.

"Ichijo-san, there is something I would like to know." Kaede spoke with her usual whimsical tone thrown to the wayside. It seems the time for pleasantries is over. "May I ask what brings you here? Especially alongside your grandson?"

"Ah, yes. Well, I have a question for you as well. Are you prepared to pass the baton over to your daughter one day?" Her speaking also grew steady, no longer the shaky elderly tone from before.

"...The thought has crossed our minds," She turned to see her daughter's blank expression. "But we will not pressure her to take over the business until she deems herself ready and we believe she is capable of shouldering it alongside the many among our staff."

The Matriarch would nod in admiration, clearing her throat before speaking up once more. "And I assume you do not wish her to hold this burden alone?"

This time it was Akio, the man who looked bulkier than he truly was in all the layers he wore., who would speak. "We prefer that to be her decision. But if she wants someone with her, then we shall determine if they are worthy of that burden ourselves. As Kaede's parents did before her."

"That is most understandable." Another nod, Kou's face was looking dreadful, like he knew what she would propose to them next.

"Tell me… would my grandson not make for a fetching candidate for your daughter?"

Yukiko's expression turned sour and dumbfounded. Her parents… looked unphased. As if they expected this. Kou did not look pleased at all, like he was biting his tongue to prevent him from talking. Yukiko realized something in this moment, it was Kou's worst fear that he believed, but never elaborated on from before. It was true, as this was what he alluded to last week.

It was an attempt at an arranged marriage.

"W-What!?" Yukiko could not contain her surprise.

"Grandmother…"

"You shush now, Kou. This is for the family's future."

Akio would sigh, Kaede kept her straight face going. It was one of these situations after all. Perhaps those pleasantries weren't so bad, after all.

"Now, I know Kou seems a little rough around the edges, but I can assure you, he is a well mannered boy and bears a full understanding of our traditions. He would have a knack for supporting your daughter through her time as the new Okami-san." The Matriarch would go on with her reasons, until Akio would interject, his interruption a much needed solution to Kou and Yukiko's second hand embarrassment.

"...Excuse me, Ichijo-san. Are you… not aware that my daughter is currently seeing someone right now?"

"Ah, yes, the city boy." The elder would sigh, exasperated by his mere mention. "Kou has mentioned him time, and time again. Tell me, why is he not here with her, then?"

Yukiko wanted to say something, but her mother's glare insisted that they handle this for now.

"Ah, Souji-chan, yes? He is a great young man, just like your grandson. You shouldn't disrespect him so."

"I mean no disrespect to his character, as Kou has insisted upon it being great and noble. But my problem is that why is the boy not here? Why is he back in the city?"

"His parents are the reason why, as our daughter says." Akio took his turn. "The young man has done great things for us and some of the people around him. I've seen it firsthand."

"...I can believe that, per my grand-son's insistence. But I must object all the same." The Matriarch shrugged her head, dismissing their attempts to prop him up with looks from both the teenagers showing clear disdain for both being here and the doubt about Souji's character and choices. Akio witnessed him be by his daughter's side against those sick reporters, and Kaede has seen him many a time, and has learned her own facts about the young man.

"Then tell us why he is below your grandson." Akio would pose her the opportunity to prove Souji is not worthy of their daughter's hand in marriage.

"F-Father, what are you-!?"

"Now now, Yukiko. Let us hear what she has to say." Kaede had requested silence from her daughter, the Matriarch believing she was swaying their judgment in her favor.

"Wonderful of you to consider my offer. My Grandson has no intention of leaving our town, save for furthering his education. But that is only temporary." She would boast his personality quirks, to his chagrin as his hand covered his face in disgrace.

"There's one problem, however, Ichijo-san." Akio realizes as she talks on, "Would this not mean the end of the Ichijo line? You do realize he would have to inherit our family name as I did."

"Of course. And this took much consideration, but I am willing to make that sacrifice. The old ways are dying everywhere we go, even outside the town. But if our families merge, then they shall be preserved for longer, and maybe a day will come when we can practice our ways with more respect."

Now this was a surprise. She was willing to let the family go to preserve the culture. But that was not acceptable to them. Family name has more meaning than legacy, but the bond that never breaks is the most important piece of all.

Kaede and Akio would look into each other's eyes, sharing a nod before looking at their daughter. Kaede gives her a reassuring smile. The heiress feels some comfort, but is anxious to know what they'll say.

When they turn to face the Matriarch, eager to hear their answer, Kaede gives a long winded sigh, leading things off on their judgment.

"You know, have you asked this a year ago from today… I might have accepted it." Yukiko's eyes lit up, bewildered that she would consider this. "But our children's reactions should be a clear answer. This will not, or ever, work out. We humbly decline your request." Both the Patriarch and Matriarch of the Amagi Inn would bow in unison.

"W-What, why!? Is this merely for the fact that the boy harbors interest for your daughter? Let me tell you, if that boy truly loves her; truly, he would have come back to stay here, damn anything standing in his way. Why do you insist on defending him? Have you given him your blessings?"

"No, we have not." Akio bluntly states.

"Then I do not understand. If he does not have your blessings, then that means my Kou should have the best chances of being able to wed your daughter. His family's only note here is that his Uncle is a Detective. One who let his subordinate kill someone, here in your Inn!"

"Grandmother! That's going too far!" Such an outburst caused a stir around everyone.

"How… dare you…!" Yukiko held a rare display of fury not seen outside the TV World.

"Easy, Yukiko." Both parents spoke the same words together; the two gazed at her, demanding to let them handle this.

"Ichijo-san, you and I both know Ryo-chan cannot be held accountable for that. He was the one who had to haul him in, with the injuries he took attempting to save his only child. I've heard the brass gives him enough of a hard time for that, as is. You need not join the pile."

"...My apologies. I spoke out of turn." And that she did. "But that doesn't answer my other problem. How is he not blessed yet still you support it?"

"That may have been common in the days of old, Ichijo-san… but that is not our way." Akio spoke with a firm tone. "We tried those ways on our daughter, and we only realized not too long ago how much it hurt her. She ran away from us, and almost ran away from the Inn. The old ways were suffocating her, and we almost lost the one thing we love above all else…"

"Father…!"

"Souji makes her happy. And that's all I need for now. If marriage comes to our table, we will address it then. But at the moment, I see no reason to stifle my daughter's joy. Not anymore."

"Souji-chan has had a positive effect on our Yukiko, more than we realized. I've never seen her smile or laugh anymore than last year. In fact, I feared we almost robbed our daughter of any sense of humor or joy… But I appreciate his unconditional love for our daughter. I believe he would fight the Gods themselves for her happiness." To which Yukiko realized the irony in that statement. "Nevertheless, as important as the Inn's legacy is… our Daughter's happiness matters more. He has affected her, and she has changed him for the better as well. Is that not what love is?"

The Matriarch of the Ichijo family was defeated. She could not muster a counter. She… saw a flaw in her beliefs. But will she betray them to make them stronger? Many do not make this choice, after all. Maybe she can be one of the few.

"I… believe I have much to reconsider then." She would try to lift herself up. As she stood, she looked to her grandson. "Kou, let us depart." She then turned her head to see the Heiress of the Inn. "Do you truly love that young man?"

"...Mm. More than you know."

The Elder would offer a chuckle. "Then I apologize for my words about him. Clearly I did not take Kou's words to heart."

"I forgive you. Thank you for considering my family's future." Despite the anger she held moments earlier, she put it aside, as she did not need it anymore.

"You have a wonderful daughter, Amagi-san. Be well until we meet again." She would offer as deep of a bow as her body would allow her before seeing herself out the door. Once she was far away, Kou would face the family of three.

"I'm so sorry for my Grandmother. I did not mean for it to escalate this quickly-!" Kou bowed hard, trying to do damage control, only leading to Kaede's heavy boisterous laughter to interrupt him.

"Kou-chan, you are not to blame for this. I already could tell you meant no harm."

"You… did?"

"Of course! Your Grandmother knew of Souji-chan's character from you, yes? I can tell he means a lot to you just like all of Yukiko's friends."

"Yeah… he's a great friend to me."

"See? And that's why I was never going to blame you. Isn't that right, dear?" She turned to her husband.

"Yes. You held my daughter's feelings on the matter close to your being. We appreciate that." Akio would offer a small bow of appreciation.

"Well, the truth is… this is all my fault. I told my grandmother about my own relationship recently and she just… didn't like it."

"Why is that? That's unusual."

"Well, it's when I said her last name… Ebihara."

"Oh! I see. The Ebihara of Land Speculation? I recall we've had them at our Inn a few times. But mainly for meetings in this very room." Kaede recalled quickly what that name meant. It was a recurring guest name, after all.

"Yeah, she's got wealth, but my Grandma despises it. She sees it as an outsider's influence."

"Ohoho! Now I see! Well, you must keep persisting, Kou-chan! I believe she'll come around one day. You simply must prove she is someone you care for. Remember her words? 'Damn anything standing in his way.' Well… that should include her as well."

"Yeah… I think you're right. When I'm ready, I'll make my case to her once more."

"That's the spirit, boy." Akio acknowledges the moment the Ichijo heir becomes more mature with his new goal. "You are still young, so there's no need to rush. Take as much time as you need to prepare for that day, but also care for the one you love as well."

"Thank you, Amagi-san. And thank you Yukiko, for putting up with my grandmother's words. I know they upset you greatly…"

"It's no problem, Kou-kun. Water under the bridge."

"Thanks. Now I need to go; Get her home and stuff. Apparently, my parents have news to share when they come back tomorrow."

"You are always welcome here, Kou-chan. Any friend of our daughter or Souji-chan is a friend of ours."

"Thank you all. I hope to see you all again someday, and with good news too." He would rise up and take his leave. As he exited the vicinity, Kaede would sigh.

"That boy… your love sure has many eccentric friends, dear."

"Heheheh… he sure does." As much of a whirlwind as that was, it was comforting to hear her parents stand up for her like that. But right now, a good soak in the springs is what she needs… a nice, long bath.

06/01

Another day of school was in the books for Souji. The spring season was coming to an end, with a month and a half until Summer break. And he can finally return to Inaba for a while this time. The sound of rain pattering against the window made him recall those days fearing when long persisting showers would come, but now… it gives him a yearning to go visit a Chinese diner.

But as he thought of the good old days, to those iconic places and the friends he took them to, another one got his attention.

"Earth to Souji-kun! Did you forget already?"

"Oh, sorry Ayame." The girl was this close to entering his personal bubble. "I was lost in my thoughts."

"Well, we can sort them out when we get to the diner instead of you doing it all alone by yourself! Katashi has something to do, but he'll meet us there while we study."

"Right. Then let's go before it gets busy."

Souji, with a dismayed shrug, stood up and the two left for Shibuya. The duo would arrive at the Shibuya central street diner that is positioned on the second floor, rain still was coming down, but once they entered the eatery, Ayame felt her phone buzz. Checking its contents as they took a seat only led to a groan of frustration escaping her lips.

"That Katashi…"

"What's wrong, Ayame?"

"Mmm…" She groaned before composing herself as best she could, a bothered tone still remained in her voice. "Seems Susumu-san is acting up today so he's gotta deal with that. Nothing major, he's just bothered because of an idol who broke his heart." It sounds like the details were not given to her.

"I see… that's disappointing, but we can manage."

"Yeah… though personally, I think Katashi needs this more than me." She giggled at her jab at her old friend. Something clicked in Souji's head as she pulled out her notebook and pencil.

"Say, Ayame, you and him go back, right?"

"Yeah, but only because we went to middle school together. I've always been stuck with him every year…"

Should he ask? Souji has been a tad bit curious. Well, all's fair as they say.

"Have you two been a thing before?" He could tell they aren't dating now, but… what about in the past?

"Wha-ugh, no way!" She clicked her tongue in disappointment from his mere thought of it. "We never have gone out! Not like that. We're just friends." This wasn't like Chie and Yosuke, where there was some chemistry, but this might have nothing but bumps and rough patches.

"Sorry. I was just curious, is all. There have been rumors that you two are dating."

"It's only 'cause we hang out a lot. Outside of Susumu-san and the Kendo club, I'm the only other person he talks to. And… I think that's why people pair us up like that. He's the Kendo captain, and I'm the Archery captain. We must seem like the ultimate Power couple…" Her eyes would falter, looking down and away from Souji.

"I know a girl from my school who dealt with similar things, but everyone wanted to be that guy… so much so that they had a whole challenge out of it to see who got with her first."

"I feel for her. Why must boys be like that?" Her eyes roll before quickly realizing something. "N-Not you, though! I mean no offense to you."

"Haha, none taken." He had his palm out, shaking his head to assure her he was fine.

"Mm, guys like Katashi aren't my type. I respect his drive, but it's not something I can handle for a long time. What I want is… someone like you, Souji-kun." His heart skipped a beat, but not for the good kind of reason. "Oh, I mean like, how you don't see me for what I look like. You talk to me for me, if that makes sense…" And his heart would ease up from that clarification. "Well, that and you're pretty handsome, too."

"Thanks, I suppose."

The waitress would arrive so late, but they placed their orders and would begin studying once their drinks arrived. But Ayame wanted to pose a question to Souji from the recent topic.

"Tell me, since you had me answer it. Do you… have someone you like?"

Oh, not this question again. He was always able to avoid it, but that sometimes had others get involved. Now… he was in a corner. Does he lie, and keep his status a secret like it should be? Or does he say it and hope she doesn't say this to anyone.

"...I do have someone I care for, yes."

"...Was it that girl you just talked to me about?" Her brow would tilt, finally putting the pieces together.

"And what gave that away?"

"...well, when you talked about that challenge, you said 'had', so… I figured it stopped now. And there's only one way that could have happened!"

"You got me there."

"Ha… it was so obvious you had someone! Most guys don't break all the hearts of girls like you do for no reason."

"I didn't think they were interested in me, anyway. I guess I relate to you a little bit in that way."

"Heehee… well, we may be the most good looking students in our class." She sounded a bit smug in that revelation. "Well… is it okay to ask what she's like?"

He thought about it for three seconds on the dot, and deemed her worthy since it doesn't seem like she's interested in him like he first suspected.

"Her name is Yukiko. She's one of the first people I met in Inaba alongside her best friend Chie and my Best friend Yosuke. We went through a lot together, and along the way, we started seeing each other."

Ayame's initial expression shifted to a more warm one. He seemed so authentic and genuinely appreciative for his time there. She can't help but wonder what Inaba is like if it made him sound this warm.

"Wow… I didn't think they meant that much to you. Before, you always seemed so…. Detached from everyone? Sorry if that sounds mean."

"No, it's fine; it's true. I was always on the move with my family. We never stayed in one place for too long. I will never be able to finish an entire school's years. My Father promised I would finish with Kosei, but just look how last year turned out; I was a Junior in Yasogami but a Freshman and Senior here. Because of our lifestyle, I never had a desire to form attachments like that. I would just lose them one day."

"But what about her? And your friends…? Won't you lose them?"

"...Before I left, I was starting to dread leaving. I feared that very thing; but… I learned to let go. Yukiko and I both feared losing each other. But now, I think we'll be fine. We realized together that instead of living to keep the present going as is, we can make a future where we live together as best we can."

"Oh, wow… Souji-kun…" She was right. This man was a Catch. A Catch of the entire school. Her whole opinion of him was skyrocketing at this very moment.

"Sorry. I got a bit too deep there. Way more personal than I'm used to…" He gave a shrug, to which she shook her head quickly.

"No, don't say that! I… actually respect you a lot more now. You really are a special guy. Sucks a gal like me can't snag someone like you." She forced a smile. "But seriously, I'm glad you got something nice going with someone. Most guys and girls for that matter, want to be with someone because of superficial stuff or because it makes them feel important. And then those couples crash and burn after a while." She sounded a bit too proud of knowing that. "You two must really have been through a lot." She can see the glimmer in his eyes still, his feelings of Yukiko seemed to ignite a fire within. It's a passion that is easy to let pass, but not to the sharp shooter eye of Ayame!

"Thanks. And we did go through a good bit of stuff together." The things he could tell Ayame, she would definitely drop this new respect if he said what happened.

"Hey, um… any chance you got a picture of her? I wanna see you two. Er, if you don't mind that is!" She raised her hands up past her chest, Souji's new smile reassured her somewhat.

"No, it's fine. I'll show you." He fished his phone out of his pocket, pulling up his gallery and picking a picture he had Teddie take during his stay in Inaba. It was the two under the Gazebo, she was close to him in her red dress and scarf while he wore his gray jacket and gloves. The two had the cutest smiles Ayame has ever seen! So, this was a genuine couple…

"Aww… you two look so cute!" When her eyes focused on Yukiko, she had a faint blush on her face. She looked so beautiful, like a traditional Japanese beauty with hair as black as Ayame's own. Her figure was almost like hers as well, but Ayame's arms had a smidge more bulk due to her many days spent into the art of the bow. Her black eyes and slightly more pronounced lips stood out to her. She also was… quite the attention grabber.

"You two are like, the Power couple of your school, I bet!"

"Not by choice. That school tends to never shut up about rumors."

"Isn't that every high school ever, though?"

"Heh, I suppose so… I guess Inaba is no different…"

Something clicked in Ayame's head after a moment. Inaba… wasn't that where…?

"Oh! I just realized! Isn't that where Risette was living? I just remembered it's her birthday today!"

"...Uh, she was staying there, yes." Okay, he can talk about Yukiko, but Rise is an idol. He cannot tell her they are friends or that she liked him at one point. …He better call Rise later tonight to wish her a happy birthday or else she'll never let Souji forget about it.

"Did she go to your school? Have you ever seen her?"

"...I did see her a few times, but I didn't want to bother her. That's not my business."

"Fair enough… She's really pretty though. And she's so strong."

"You think so? Are you a fan?"

"Mhm. I saw an interview she did the other day about making a comeback. She said she made some friends back in Inaba that helped her grow as a person. She has this glimmer in her own eyes that just makes me want to be like her!" She really had an impact on the Archer.

"...That's really nice of her. She found something she loved about that place too."

"Maaan! If I didn't have so much practice and the tournaments, I would have asked to go see Inaba with you!"

"Hahah, maybe we can go after we graduate. There would be actual time for us to enjoy life before college begins."

"Ooh, I like that! Maybe Katashi can come along! I think that meathead could use some country air!" She giggled at his expense, still a bit tilted about his no show.

"That sounds like something we can plan over time. I think you would love it. The air is clean and it's so quiet. You could easily relax while you're there."

"Now I have to see it! Take some pictures for me when you go. And if you see Risette…"

"That I won't do."

"Aw, I just want her autograph!" Despite how clear Rise means so much to her, it's not worth risking their friendship coming out, or the violation of her privacy.

06/03

A Sunny, late Spring afternoon was warming up the city of Okina, and inside its arcade were some familiar faces. Masato and Yosuke were having a good race, while Rise and Teddie spectate. Kanji was pulled away by Naoto, claiming she wanted some fresh air with his company. With a bottle of water in her hand, and a sports drink in Kanji's, the two would feel a warmer breeze blow by them, an early sign that Summer was approaching. She was wearing her summer clothes, but… her bindings were gone. She was starting to wear them less often. But so far, this only applied when there was no school, like today.

"I appreciate you coming outside with me, Kanji-kun. I prefer the company."

"Uh, yeah; no prob." He found it hard to stare at her again. He wasn't used to the… figure she had suppressed away.

"Is everything well, Kanji-kun?"

"Nah, it's nothing. Just a bit surprised you asked me to join ya is all."

"If you say so." She nodded, her hat still on her being, but she took it off to let her head feel the warm rays of the sun. "How did you all find this place?"

"Uh, Souji-senpai and Yosuke-senpai found it, and that Masato guy found them by pure chance."

"Chance, you say?" Her tone was as casual as she could get away with, wondering if this was "chance" like Kanji claimed.

"Yeah, he says this is his place to unwind and have fun. The workers treat him like a regular."

"Ah, I see." If that's the case, then that claim is authentic. "And you met him through Senpai?"

"That's right. He asked Masato to come meet us here so he can show me and the other guys around. Yukiko-senpai, Chie-senpai, and Rise spotted us goin' in."

"..." She pondered his statement. It lined up with Rise's story as well. Perhaps that is the case. A retelling from Yosuke or her other Senpai could confirm this. "He's been hanging out with you all lately?"

"Yosuke-senpai, yeah. Apparently they come here with the sports guys that Senpai hung out with once in a while. I'm usually too busy tending to the shop, but Ma insisted I come hang out with everyone today."

"Hmhm… she isn't wrong, Kanji-kun. You should enjoy the time we have while we're able."

"Ugh, you sound like one of those old councilors!" This caused Naoto to giggle, not offended but the idea of the principal scolding Kanji like that was humorous. "I remember seeing Masato around Rise once. Think they were eating some skewers. Seen'em pay for hers too… A couple times actually now that I think about it."

"Oh? Are they…?" She started to consider a different outcome, but this felt like gossip, a subject Naoto dislikes, but if that's the cost for the truth, so be it.

"You mean they're datin'!?" Even he can piece together what she's thinking with the way her tone broke off. "I don't think they are. When Rise was crushing on Senpai, it was so freakin' obvious. She hasn't acted like that so far 'round this guy."

"It's just a guess. Although… How old is he?"

"Yosuke-senpai said he's eighteen, turnin' nineteen soon. I dunno when his birthday is. You concerned it was gonna be a big ol' age gap or something. He looks our age to me."

"Just curious, is all."

"You uh, wondering if this guy is alright? He's alright with me. Seems like a dependable guy. Kinda like Senpai."

The same thing Rise said… How oddly specific. With a sigh, she concludes she has enough information from Kanji. Perhaps it's best to finish this here so he doesn't question her reasons for these inquiries.

"Oh no, I trust Senpai's taste in friends. I was merely curious."

"Okay then; I feel the same, but you did make me think… wonder if they would go out one day? Now that I get a good look at them… Rise seems a little bit more happy these days."

"Indeed… Shall we return?" The two take a moment to finish their drinks before returning inside the arcade. She needed a chance alone with Yosuke for further verification. That probably wouldn't happen today, however. But she can inquire for his opinion at any time.

While that was happening, the guys just finished their race with Masato finally getting a win against Yosuke. Yosuke seemed a little proud of this. It took many months, but he conceded this time around. The idol was cheering loud with her hand on his shoulder congratulating him.

"Damn, dude. You have the biggest cheerleader on your side."

"Haha, well, when you got a pretty girl like Rise-chan cheering for ya, it's difficult to not give it your all." Yosuke could see Rise's amused face as Masato said that, her cheeks having the slightest tint.

"Wow, Yosuke. If you wanted to win, maybe I should have dressed like a cheerleader!" Teddie suddenly interjected with this tone Masato couldn't discern as either sarcasm or intent.

"...What does he mean?" Masato asked with genuine concern.

"N-Nothing! He's just being stupid is all! Don't mind this dumb bear!" Yosuke tried to play this off with panic in his tone; Masato cannot know about the time Teddie dressed up like a girl… twice. Because if that is brought up, then so will Yosuke's time. And that would not be a story he wants to weave. "C'mon, Teddie, it's your turn!" Yosuke is not holding back against Teddie, not after what happened to him before Golden Week. Masato got off to allow Teddie to meet his fate, heading over to the Vending machine for a drink to unwind for a moment. But as he got his drink, he turned to see Rise by his side, bent over a bit, and hands behind her back as she looked at him.

"I'm pretty, huh?" Oh, she's not letting this one go, is she? Especially because he said it around Yosuke and Teddie.

"Rise-chan… don't do this to me."

"I'll stop if you say you meant it." Her body returned to a normal straight stance, eyes looking at him pleadingly.

"You're just gonna tease me more if I say that… Rise." He shook his head, not wanting to make this worse.

"Hmm, maybe." She broke into a giggle, hand covering her mouth. "Hey, let's sit for a bit. I think Kanji is trying to make a move on Naoto-kun."

"Wait, you mean he-?" Rise would nudge him to sit beside her.

"Has a thing for her? Yeah! It's so cute; isn't it? I'm kinda rooting for him."

"Well, I'll be damned… I hope he goes for her too. She looks cute next to him."

"Oh, you say she's cute!" Rise pouts with intent to force a reaction out of Masato. And it worked.

"Oh, you know damn well that's not what I meant." She smiled, her soft lipstick making her lips shine in the brighter lights.

"You're so fun to rattle, you know."

"Ugh…"

"You know, Masato-kun… now you got me curious about something. I don't think you've been honest with me lately." Oh god, has she caught on to his ruse? Is the Imposter now suspected? "You never told me what kinda girls you like."

On one hand, he dodged the biggest bullet possible, but had to take on another with no way out. …Does he stay in character? Or be honest? He had decided quickly, for he had no time to ponder on his options.

"I guess… I like girls who are honest? Looks don't matter as much to me, but as long as there's someone who likes me for me, that's all I can ask for at this point. I'm still learning about what my interests are."

"Oooh." She seemed to have felt she fit those categories. In fact, that latter part really makes her relate to him. With that said… she wanted to know more! "Well, what do you find most attractive in a girl? Physically, I mean." She was not giving him any leeway here. "C'mon, I won't judge!" She was hoping he wasn't as depraved as Yosuke, but… she might forgive Masato as it can make for some good material for later.

"Rise, if I tell you, will you stop?" To which she would nod, eager to learn his tastes. "Ugh, fine. I guess the things I like in a woman are… beautiful eyes, long legs… and well, a nice chest if I'm being honest..."

One, two, and three. Rise felt like she hit all three of those categories, more or less.

"Don't tell anyone. I'd rather not let anybody think I'm some kind of pervert."

"Aww, that's cute. Trust me, you're more tame than you think. I've heard pretty depraved stuff in my time as an idol, so don't worry so much. Plus, you haven't really met Teddie." She shrugged her head, but he was too entrenched in his self-consciousness to find solace in that last part.

A hard sigh escaped his lips. "God, this is embarrassing. Promise me you won't bring this up again; it's a bit… discomforting."

"Alright; I'm sorry if I poked a bit too far. You're a bit like Kanji and Senpai. Yosuke-senpai and Teddie are more like most boys I've dealt with." She giggles to his chagrin. "Speaking of eyes from before… yours are pretty. Are you half-European or something? Green eyes are rare in this region." She tried to shift the focus to something less personal, and yet it only eased him slightly.

"Uh, I might be. My family's ancestors originate from the North, and apparently you're more likely to find Green or even Blue eyes up there."

"Oh, I think I heard about that! That makes sense."

"Yeah. I always feared I'd be seen as an outsider because of them."

"Don't be silly. It might get people's attention, but you'll be fine. Inaba is more open minded compared to other places. Just look at my friends. They all welcomed me easily despite being an idol! And now you're a part of us." She giggled, nudging his shoulder with her hand.

"I-I am…?"

"Yeah! You're getting along with all of us already. We might drag you along for some stuff someday if you keep this up."

Inside his heart, he felt attachments forming between them. But he recalled Mitsuru's warning about such things. Especially once the Culprit is caught; It is very likely he will be taken out of Inaba once everything is over. If they never caught them though, would he stay? Could he stay around Rise, Yukiko, Yosuke, and everyone else…? No, such thoughts are inappropriate. Especially in regards to his goal…

But she, all of them… are making him feel things he didn't expect to feel ever again.

"...Thanks, Rise. That means a lot to me."

"Hm?"

"Never mind. I… I think your eyes are really pretty too, you know…?"

"Really? Thanks! You might be one of the first to say that in a while." As her time with her Shadow portrayed, she's sexualized often. So such comments were things she had to be used to seeing and hearing wherever they appeared; so when a genuine moment of appreciation for her features that weren't sexually motivated, especially something that's seen as innocent as her windows to the soul, it meant something; especially from a friend. Masato found it difficult to maintain eye contact with her, but she didn't mind.

"Hey, um, I need to do some photoshoots in a bit. Mind walking me over when it's time? I know you wanna play with the others so if you can't it's fine.

"...No, I'll gladly take you over there if that's what you want."

"Thanks Masato-kun. You're always looking out for me. I appreciate it."

"Or course. Isn't that what friends do?"

"Friends…" For the first time, that started to bother her. At least in regards to him. "Yeah! You're always honest with me, you know?"

Honesty…. That word couldn't be further from the truth. The idea of her being a close friend in her mind, or worse… It bothers Masato immensely. But Masato's lie has gotten them this close. Wouldn't it be best to come out and tell the truth? It would hurt them, either way. He could push it back, keep them at an arm's length, denying anyone a chance from getting too close; just to be small friends and that's it. Just to keep an eye on them and see if the Culprit is after them or the Shadow Operatives first. Still… it continues to bother him no matter how he tries to justify it.

Naoto and Kanji had returned from their own break, Naoto quickly approaching the resting duo with her tall compatriot close behind her.

"There you are. Now, I believe you wished to show me some of the other games...?" She seemed quick to get invested into the arcade. Masato would rise up from his seat, turning to face Rise.

"Well, you wanna play a bit more before you go... Rise-chan?"

"Sure!" His tone sounded different. Now that someone else entered the picture, his tone shook back to the less straightforward, passive tone from before. She would stand beside him, just flirting with his personal bubble's boundary. "Lead the way, Masato-kun! Show Naoto something she's gonna love!"

These supporting auras and friendly feelings that surround him. Souji is one lucky guy. These things, Rise's deepening bond with him, Yukiko's compassion, and the welcoming budding friendships between the rest of the Investigation Team are tearing into his very mask, trying to pry it off by force while he keeps it on.

What should he do? His heart is feeling things he should not be allowed to feel, especially while on a mission. The question now is… The Mission? Or the desires and needs of the Self? Which matters to you more, Impostor?

06/18

"Father! Why are you against my visit to Inaba?"

An argument was erupting in the Seta household, between Father and Son, while an apathetic Mother was told to stay back.

"Because there's no need for you to go there anymore! You are better off investing that time into preparing for College and your future in the Business world." Osamu stood firm and tall, towering over Souji's spirit as Izanami did many months back.

"I told you that's not what I want."

"Then what do you want, Son?"

Souji couldn't admit it. Even with his courage being fearless and undaunted… he couldn't tell him about Yukiko.

"If you have no goal in life that is better than this one, then it's all the more reason you have to stay here and prepare! You know this is the path."

"To hell with that."

"...What did you say, son?" There was bitterness in his father's tone, being defied and bothered by Souji's spine.

"I said to hell with that, Father! I should have a choice in what I want to do with my life!"

"And you can't present me with one! Does living in that town give you needless satisfaction? Bah! It's not worth your time and talents. You can do much better. Tokyo, Hokkaido, Kyoto… hell, even that smaller city nearby called Okina could be a better place thanks to your business repertoire than this village!" His arms never left the cross pattern until now. "You can make your own financial empire, son. The cities are our hunting grounds where we prove ourselves every day! It isn't even about the money to me, it's merely about showing the influence and power you acquire through it."

"...Power means nothing if no one will respect you for it."

"Oh, but you see, son. That power forces those to stay in line. If they hate me so much, then they should be climbing up for my job! If I am bested, then that means I wasn't the Apex of the financial world, thus never being truly worthy. This power comes with security, son. I know you're too young to realize this. But with influence… comes many opportunities to make a true difference in this world. If you wish to work in a soup kitchen, then that is a valid cause… but what if you could be up here with me? Where we can put money into our streets, changing them for the better. More effective to help the group than the individual. My plans for the Kirijo Group are vast, my son. Even Mitsuru Kirijo doesn't do much to change the land for the better." Oh, he definitely is wrong there. His meeting with her back in May is proof he's completely wrong. "All that money and it just goes to who knows where. That's why I left last year. For opportunities. And it's clear to me you do not appreciate or understand. Therefore, until you do, you are not to leave for Inaba. I will not let you."

"Father…! You are more arrogant than before!" Souji was seething through his teeth.

"You also need to learn about respect, it seems. I thought Ryotaro would have whipped you into shape."

"Don't you dare insult him again! Mother, are you just going to let him insult your brother like that? Your hometown?" He faced his mother who sat there in silence.

"Osamu. You should drop this. Your point has come across more than well enough."

"Clearly not if he hasn't learned anything from the truth I discovered while we were gone." He turned to face him once more. "Go to your room. I have a guest coming soon. My old friend Junichi is going to be here and I do not want you ruining my night. He is staying here for the night and you will not act this way while he is here. Am I clear?"

"...Crystal."

"You're dismissed, son."

Souji with the most hate filled eyes; eyes he had not shown since December 3rd, were glaring at his father before he left to go upstairs, the doorbell ringing on cue. This was not going to plan at all.

How is he going to go back? He can't tell his friends that this isn't happening now. Nanako would be heartbroken, and Yukiko would be agitated if she learned the words he said about the town she was from. All of them would, actually. He can't call anyone. It would make it worse. Way worse. If Dojima found out… he might force his way through to tell Osamu off.

What can he do?

A/C: As you can see, the infectious nature of the Investigation team is really putting him between a rock and a hard place. But going back to the early part of this chapter, that was something I wanted to write up for a while. Since we didn't have Souji join basketball, Kou's issues never got properly resolved and thus, it got pushed on. Of course, soon it'll all work out as news will soon arrive that there is a bloodline heir coming to the family in his little sister. There was also Ayame's moment with Souji. She will have a proper character arc, but she's just a smaller character at the end of the day. She's not gonna be a Persona user or anything like that, but she'll get to interact with the team one day, and in ways you might not expect. So pay attention to her moments earlier when seeing how great a person Souji is. Speaking of Souji, that argument I initially had as the opener to my next chapter, but felt it was too strong; but here it serves a greater purpose as to leave you all with a cliffhanger. How will this be resolved? We might see this arc finished in eight chapters after all! But that's subject to change.

And I realized something about the P4DAN arc. ...It's even harder to skip than Arena as events I had planned for the time it's set in are now at risk. The best I can do is rework those beats into the LMB Festival period. And I think I can make it work. But now I have to go through the game. This sucks, but it'll work out. I'm skipping a lot of the major events. I'll cover the beginning for sure, but the middle and end, we shall see. The more I look into the events, the more difficult and upsetting it is for me to have to shelve or rush through events I had planned. Still, I like to keep some faith to what is established for this part of the story.

Today's reference is "House of the Rising Sun" by The Animals. It's a bit of a joke in regards to Yukiko's home and you know, land of the rising sun? But it's more so a nod to Souji's dad's controlling nature.

Have fun looking forward to next time! I ain't telling you much in terms of a preview. This ending speaks for itself.