Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“ This story is a work of fiction. Similarities between characters or events to persons living or dead in your world are purely coincidental. Only those who have agreed to the above have the privilege of partaking in this game. Do you agree? ”

Agree - “The contract has been sealed”.

I do not agree - “I guess it is not time for a new Trickster to be awakened. Please proceed to another story”.

*****

It is the start of summer vacation, and all is well in the bustling residential district of Yongen-Jaya early this morning. Sojiro Sakura has just entered Cafe LeBlanc for another day at work. He yawns as he gets out ingredients, and prepares some morning food for guests that will show up throughout the day.

“Gosh, it’s the first day of summer isn’t it? Business is gonna be affected ‘cause of that…” Sojiro says as he brews up a batch of coffee. As he turns on the flame he lights a cigarette, and starts making some curry in the back when he hears the bell for the door upfront ring- someone has just walked in.

“Sojiro! Good Morning!” said a familiar voice to him as they closed the door. He glanced over to see Futaba Sakura walking inside to sit down.

“Well, if it isn’t my good ‘ol daughter! You are up early today” said Sojiro.

“Heh, well it’s the start of summer vacation, so I’m excited to do some stuff with Ann , Haru , and Makoto a bit later today. I think some of the boys might join in- but I’m fine with alittle G.N.O. Gotta make use of your time while you have it!” said Futaba. 

“Haha, well that is true. Well food’s almost ready- I’ll make you some breakfast- sit tight why don’t you?” said Sojiro as he hurried back to the kitchen.

“Yessir!” replied Futaba. She then took a seat at the front bar closest to the TV screen as it plays the morning news, “It’s gonna be pretty hot out today ‘aint it?”

“Yea, so you probably should be wearing that jacket!” exclaimed Sojiro.

“Yea yea yea- I ain’t hot, I’m just saying that It’s going to be hot. But thank you for worrying about my well being. If you wanna worry more- fill me with food!” said Futaba as she rubs her belly.

“Gotcha ‘ya food shark” said Sojiro as he laughs. He finishes preparing a little meal just for Futaba and he hands her a plate of food, “Dig in” Sojiro says as he goes back to finish a cup of coffee.

“Thanks!” said Futaba happily as she begins to eat. As she stuffs her fae Sojiro sets down a cup of coffee next to her. 

“It's not too hot- try it out it’s a new blend I’m working on” said Sojiro.

“Free coffee connoisseuring? That’ll cost ‘ya an extra plate of food ‘ya know? Hehe” said Futaba as she smirked with glee. 

“I hear ‘ya…” said Sojiro as he shook his head. Futaba then went to try to sip on the coffee as Sojiro poured coffee into coffee mug for himself. Suddenly, the door opens again- the same bell tone echoed the cafe. 

“Hello, welcome to Cafe LeBl-” said Sojiro before coming to a halt in his own words. His eyes widened as he glanced at the person who walked through the door- and in such a state of shock he dropped his coffee mug straight on the floor. 

“AHH!” yelled Futaba alarmed by him dropping the coffee mug. Futaba jumped from her seat in shock, and Sojiro didn’t even glance down to see the hot coffee running across the floor. “What the heck Sojiro? Why did you just dr-” Futaba muttered before she turned her head the same direction as Sojiro- and soon was as deadpanned as she was. 

As this person closed the door behind them they walked closer to Futaba and Sojiro. Futaba looked this person up and down, who was wearing baggy denim blue pants, a black shirt, with a white opened buttoned-down shirt over it. Their black messy hair cascaded over their framed glasses, and a brown bag was hanging over their left shoulder. 

“I-I can’t believe what I’m seeing…” Sojiro said as his cigarette in his mouth falls to the floor. Suddenly, Futaba’s eyes fill with tears as she runs over.

“A-Akira!!!” shouted Futaba in joy as she embraced him in a hug- his bag nearly falling to the floor. Before the bag hit the floor however a black cat fell out.

“Mreow!” the cat yelled as it plopped onto the floor.

“M-Morgana too?!” said Sojiro as he starts to step forward from behind the counter, “I-I can’t believe it, what you guys- ow!” Sojiro shouted as he stepped on the coffee on the floor.

“Can you guys calm down for two seconds??” said Morgana.

“ How could we calm down?? I haven't seen you guys since we dropped you off in your hometown earlier this year!” boasted Futaba.

“But he didn’t say anything- did he?” said Sojiro as he bends down to clean up the coffee and broken mug.

“Hehe, hey. What’s up?” said Akira.

“ What’s up ? Yea what’s up- what the heck is up with you just hear right now?! This is so exciting!!” said Futaba. 

“Calm down- I’ll explain everything in a moment. For now- you need help there Sojiro?” asked Akira.

“Y-Yea, I mean having you help would be befitting since you are the reason I dropped it”, said Sojiro. Akira then picked back up his bag as Morgana hopped inside, and set it on the bar counter.

*****

As Akira helped clean up Sojiro’s mess he sat next to Futaba at the bar slouchingly.

“I forgot how bad your posture was” joked Futaba. 

“Okay okay, now tell us- what are you doing here? A-And out of the blue?” pondered Sojiro.

“Yea, and you haven’t been online recently the past few months- practically ghosting all of us. What’s up??” asked Futaba.

“I’m sorry- my phone broke due to Morgana, and all the money I had saved up while I was staying with you I lost. So, I had to focus a lot of time on doing what jobs I could find for a little while while I saved up enough to get another one” said Akira causing Morgana to get uptight.

“H-Hey! I didn’t break it completely you said! I thought it was a rodent one day and swatted at it- but I hit it off his counter…” said Morgana.

“Awe Morgana don’t feel bad- it was just an accident” said Futaba as she petted Morgana.

“S-Stop it!” yelled Morgana.

“Don’t give the cat a hard time Futaba- it already feels bad that it broke his phone. Now, tell us how you went from ‘broken phone at home’ to ‘suddenly I’m back at LeBlanc’” said Sojiro as he set down a cup of coffee in front of Akira. Akira went to drink it, and then cleared his throat.

“You see… I was pretty glad to be back home, and go back to the life that was taken from me. Everything for the most part was fine- minus my phone and other things, but it my life returned to just how it was. I felt that my time here was spent, and in the year I was here I accomplished more than I ever thought I could in my life; being able to stick it to the adults with twisted desires in life that make it hard for us to exist in this world- it felt exhilarating. I was happy to leave our accomplishments as they are as society kept going, but I don’t know... Something was always missing in the process… Almost when you get used to a bad situation and find solace in all of it. Though, not to say when I was here I was in some type of misery- I ended up meeting some of the greatest people in my life as a Phantom Thief here. I guess I say all that to say… I believe I desire a feeling like that again” said Akira. As he says that Futaba’s eyes light up.

“Really?” sasked Futaba.

“I believe so. And so, to see for sure I truly desire, and not just fantasizing about the past in retrospect I thought to come back into that environment again. Don’t get me wrong- I always intended to visit, but what makes this visit a bit different is that I am considering returning to Shujin for my 3rd year” said Akira.

“W-Wha-...!” Sojiro said with a gasp. Futaba rose out of her seat.

“Y-You can’t be serious! That’s awesome!” yelled Futaba.

“Calm down. It’s only a consideration. I decided that I will spend my summer here, and depending on how I feel I will either go back to Shujin- or head on home. My parents are okay with any decision I make, and just want me to be happy- though they worry about my safety after all that happened and coming here again. The reason why I am considering returning for my 3rd year because I know that I plan to go abroad afterwards- attend a university somewhere around the world. So, while we are all still in Tokyo I wanna take advantage of that. Either way, it was befitting for my first visit be here” said Akira.

“That’s a good idea. S-So you are gonna be in the area all summer? That’s great, but where are you staying??” asked Sojiro.

“Well… I was saving up money for that as well. But, my parents did give me some money to stay in a hotel or whatnot for the summer, but that was my plan B in case my plan A didn’t work… I-I left my stuff outside in case things didn’t work” said Askira as he points to the door. Sojiro suddenly rushes behind the counter, and to Akira.

“You idiot- go get your stuff from outside right now!” yelled Sojiro as he goes to hug Akira, “Of course you can stay here! Though, the attic is a bit dirty now…”

“I just didn’t want to impose on you out of the blue…” said Akira as he pats Sojiro on the back. 

“Here- I’ll help you bring your stuff in!” said Futaba as she heads outside. Akira and Sojiro then follow suit, and go gather Akira’s suitcases from outside LeBlanc, and bring them upstairs to the attic. As Akira sets down all his bags near the staircase he looks around the room.

“Well, you were right in saying it’s dirty, but a bit might be a fib” said Akira as he looks around, “But if I can clean up Shibuya of crooks I can- *cough cough* I-I clean an attic” said Akira as he tries to catch his breath.

“Gosh Sojiro, you could at least clean up here once in a while- ever heard of spring cleaning?” asked Futaba.

“I tried to preserve it as best as I could, but coming up here would make me sad of the space now empty if you know what I mean…” said Sojiro as he looks down in embarrassment. Akira rubs the back of his head- realizing Sojiro really missed him. Suddenly, Morgana moves around viciously in Akira’s bag.

“Huh?” said Futaba.

“What’s the cat acting up for? It hungry?” asked Sojiro.

“The dust is getting on my fur! Clean this place up fast!” yelled Morgana. Sojiro walks over to Morgana, and picks him up.

“Come on- I just made some food. I’ll go make you some as well and get you outta this dust storm of a room. Why not help him clean up Futaba?” said Sojiro as he walked downstairs.

“How did I get stuck being the cleanup crew? Oh well- it’s just cool that you are here now! I need to tell the others ASAP!” said Futaba as she goes to take out her phone. However, Akira stops her.

“Let’s preserve the shock for everyone else, ‘kay? I heard you mention to Sojiro when I was eavesdropping from outside that you plan to hang with everyone later? You round up the girls, and I’ll round up the guys” said Akira as he walks to the back of his room.

“Huh? But why would you just listen and not just come in? And I can just ensure everyone is there- we were gonna hang downtown or something” said Futaba.

“It’s not that hard to eavesdrop when you talk so loud, hehe. And either way works, but you made it seem like the guys might not show up- so I’ll make sure they do” said Akira.

“But you don’t know where they are” said Futaba.

“I’ll find ‘em” said Akira as he goes to blow some dust off his desk in the back. Suddenly, he starts to sneeze uncontrollably.

“That probably wasn’t a good idea,” said Futaba. Akira however can stop sneezing. “I’ll go get you some water” said Futaba as she goes downstairs to get a glass of water for Akira. She goes to hand it to him and  he drinks it, and as he does so Akira starts to feel like his nose starts to feel a bit better, but it’s still a bit sensitive.

“I probably should go see Takemi for my nose…” said Akira.

“That shady doctor, right?” asked Futaba.

“She’s not shady- well at least not anymore” said Akira as he wipes mucus from his nose, “Gosh, but yea. Hey, I’ll go find a broom and whatnot and do this room- you can text everyone and make sure they come to LeBlanc and it can be a suprise” said Akira.

“But won’t they suspect that coming here might be suspicious? They don’t come around as often since you left to be honest” said Futaba.

“Really?” asked Akira.

“Even ‘Sayuri’ isn’t here- Yusuke has it with him where he is staying now. Sojiro wasn’t surprised that they stopped however- but sometimes they are here if they hang with me” said Futaba.

“Well, let’s change that. Just text ‘em. I’ll clean up here and I might go stop by the doc real quick and take it from there” said Akira.

“Okay!” said Futaba as she takes out her phone to text but then she looks back up, “Wait, so do you have a new phone now?”

“Oh yea, I do” said Akria as he pulls it out- a new model white phone- almost similar to the one he had before.

“You should venture out to newer tech, Akira” said Futaba judgingly. 

“I take what I can get- it’s just a phone. The only thing I’m not use to with this new phone is random apps not popping up on my menu” said Akira jokingly.

“I don’t miss that TBH” said Futaba causing Akira to laugh, “Well Imma need your new number then- hopefully Morgana doesn’t break it this time”

“Yea” said Akira. 

*****

Akira goes to find a broom, and tidies up the room as best he can for about an hour or so. After cleaning much he can he then changed his clothes- sporting red pants, and a different black shirt with breathable fabric as it was hot out. He walked down stairs, and used the bathroom- having not used the bathroom since he left hometown. 

“I'm gonna go out for a bit- Achoo!. Agh, BRB” said Akira.

“You just got back and you are already going? Oh, well I guess the last thing a boy your age wants to do is be tied up in an attic all summer. Hey, take these” said Sojiro as he throws Akira the keys to the cafe, “Feels like deja vu, but if you end up staying out longer than you plan you got the keys to come in- or lock the place up for me like old times”

“Thanks- Achoo!. I don’t plan to stay out too late since I intend for the gang to come here later” said Akira.

“Oh yea, Futaba did say something like that. Well, later I’ll make enough food for everyone. Anyways, have a good time out- and go do something about that tickle in your nose” said Sojiro.

“That’s my plan actually. Anyways see ‘ya in a bit” said Akira. He goes to walk out the door before he heard a meowing sound by his feet.

“You’re just gonna leave me here in this stuffy cafe??” asked Morgana.

“I mean, if you wanna come around with me you can. But it is pretty hot out- and I don’t wanna bring my bag” said Akira.

“What?” said Morgana shocked.

“You were complaining the whole ride here due to the heat- and it wasn’t that easy bringing you here either as I could only bring limited luggage. I’m just going around the corner, just chill out” said Akira.

“Are you talking to yourself??” asked Sojiro.

“Huh? No, but I think Morgana is hot- could you do something about that?” asked Akira.

“Really? Here I’ll turn the new AC I have on- Sorry I keep it off since the temperature messes with my ingredients.  Come sit over here Morgana” said Sojiro.

“Huh? Hmm… Your stuffy hot bag or Sojiro’s AC cool Cafe?... Yea I’ll stay. HAve fun” said Morgana as he rushed over to Sojiro.

“See y’all in a bit” said Akira as he headed out. “Okay, I’ll go see Takemi first” he said to himself as he started to walk down the street to Takemi’s office.

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

Akira made his way down the narrow streets of Yongen-Jaya as he proceeded further to Takemi’s Medical Clinic. He passed by familiar faces in the area; the owner of the second-hand shop “Yumenoshima” was one of them. Akira waved hello from the distance- remembering all the random knick-knacks that he purchased of his over the year he was at Sojiro’s. The old man- recognizing Akira’s face- waved back joyfully as he had not seen him in such a long time.

“How’s it been? Long time no see youngster! Come by and buy something soon, I got new stuff in stock!” the old man shouted to Akira. Akira nodded his head ‘yes’ in response and waved back. 

Akira thought to himself, “ Business must be going well- it looks like he upgraded the interior since the last time I saw him. Wonder if that’s from all the stuff I had bought… ”. He then glanced at the side of the wall in the old man’s store, and saw an old Phantom Thief poster. Akira started to ponder to himself if the old man was actually a fan of the Phantom Thieves, or if rumors spread that a thief often shopped there some time ago. It is quite possible that just that rumor alone- truth or not- would bolster sales. Akira flipped his air in the wind, and continued down the road where he passed by the local supermarket “Muramasa”, where Akira could go if he ever needed quick supplies, snacks, or info while in the vicinity. He walked by the front doors as they open up automatically as he gotten close. As it opens a store clerk stands on the other side, and greets Akira with a wave.

“Good Morning, sir- wait, I recognize you from somewhere” the store clerk says. 

“I used to come by here a lot a few months ago- I just moved back into the area today,” said Akira.

“Oh! Well I hope you enjoy your stay while you are here. It’s awfully hot today, so feel free to buy a drink whenever you are around!” the store clerk said as they pointing to the soda shelf next to them.

“Will do- Achoo!. Catch ‘ya later I just was going to window shop if I walked in” said Akira as he started to walk away.

“Okay! Have a nice day!” said the store clerk as they waved Akira goodbye. 

Akira started to remember how friendly the neighbouring people were to LeBlanc as he continues walking, and starts to daydream on all that he missed about it. He headed down the street opposite the store’s entrance and walked a bit of way until he was foot first in front of the clinic where Takemi resided. 

“Wow, sure brings back memories” said Akira as he sighs and looks up the building to the sky. He then walks up the white stoney steps, and opens the door to the building. He walks down the hallway until he reaches a room that has ‘Tae Takemi’ on the nameplate. As he goes to turn the doorknob he starts to get nervous- knowing that he hasn’t stayed in contact with the best doctor he has ever had- since he left. He sighs, and opens the door. He walks into the familiar room, and at the front desk sits Takemi in her usual punk-ish getup with an overcoat on looking bored. She uses her hand as a fan as she peers through the glass to see a customer.

“Hello, welcome to my clinic. Are you here to make an appoin-” said Takemi before she froze in her seat. 

“You-!” she exclaimed as she jumped out of her seat. Akira jumped back a bit, startled by her yelling.

“Long time no see doc’” said Akira as he walks to the front desk.

“Long time no see?!” exclaimed Takemi as she came from behind the desk to the main room, “I didn’t know you were coming back in town- thought you ditched this place for good. Have you came back to get another examination? You know I’m not doing shifty stuff much anymore right?” said Takemi as she walked to give Akira a one armed hug.

“ Much ? Heh, well actually- Achoo!” said Akira as he covered his sneeze with his other forearm away from Takemi. She backed away subtly as to not get sneezed on.

“What- you got a cold now of all seasons?” asked Takemi.

“No. Sojiro didn’t clean the attic in god knows how long, and my nose has been acting up ever since I cleaned out the attic. I was wondering if you had any meds for it” said Akira.

“Oh, well okay. What were you doing- biting on dust? Agh, anyways just head to the exam room; this shouldn’t take long” said Takemi as she pointed to the door Akira knew all too well. 

Akira entered the exam room, and sat down in the chair next to Takemi’s desk. She made her way in shortly after with a bunch of various viles and doctor’s equipment. Takemi sat beside him with a thermometer.

“First, let me just make sure you aren’t rising in temp. Potentially you could have gotten a fever from that” said Takemi as she stuck a thermometer in Akira’s mouth.

“Ack!” said Akira as she jabbed it too far, “Careful- I’m not trying to deepthroat it!”

“Haha. I didn’t insert it too roughly- if your mucus membranes are too sensitive I can neutralize them. I can get you muscle relaxers; they also work well as a gag reflex neutralizer if you did wanna take your deepthroating seriously” said Takemi with a slight smile.

“W-Wha-!” said Akira as his eyes light up.

“Relax- I’m joking. Here, give it” said Takemi as she takes the thermometer and reads it, “You are fine- but you are awfully tense. Something on your mind?” asked Takemi.

“School, my future, my nose… So yea- a lot” said Akira.

“Sarcasm; that’s how I know you really are okay. Well I’ll just put these drops into your nose, and you take these pills. The drops should neutralize and lingering dust trapped in your nose, and the pills will numb pain. If you feel uncomfortable-ness in your nose still just drain your nose with water. If you don’t know how come back here” said Takemi as she gets up from her seat to get another vile.

“Okay” said Akira as he lays back in his seat. As Takemi fooled around with medicines Akira looked around her office- not much has changed, but he can tell its’ being used more by clients; dirty foot marks still on the floor from either earlier today or yesterday, and a client portfolio resting unattended on her desk seems girthy and full of patients. It makes him remember back when he was helping Takemi get rid of her sigma in the medical industry, and how passionate Takemi was about her work. 

“Here it is. Tilt your head back” said Takemi as she brings the nose drops closer to Akira’s face. He follows suit, tilts his head, and Takemi drops 4 drops into Akira’s nose; two for each nostril. 

“Agh! It stings” said Akira.

“Hmm, I’ll have to document that reaction. Anyways just take those pills, and clear out your sinuses frequently. Oh, and stay hydrated- especially today. That’s all, you can go” said Takemi.

“Oh? You don’t want me to stay and talk to you?” asked Akira.

“Heh, well as much as it was a shock to see you- I’m a busy woman, and I have an actual client coming in soon. It’s weird- after you helped me business started to pick up more after you left. It’s been going well for me. Also, I don’t think the first thing you need to do the start of summer vacay is spend it in a doctor’s office- I’m sure you wanna go see your friends, hm? I’ll be here all summer round, so stop by if anything comes up” said Takemi. 

“Gotcha. Well then I’ll do just that- see ‘ya later” said Akira as he walks to the door.

“Oh wait! Actually, can you do me a favor?” asked Takemi.

“Sure, what’s up?” said Akira.

“Do you plan to go into Shibuya at all? One of my patients left their bag here- the one that owns the bookstore on Central Street. Could you just bring it to them yourself? I’m somewhat tied up here or else I would do it, and I’m sure they are familiar with you already” said Takemi.

“Uh, well I didn’t wanna carry a bag with me today, but sure. I plan to run into some friends hopefully down there, so it would be on the way” said Akira.

“Good, thanks a bunch. Think of this errand as payment for your exam” said Takemi as she chuckles.

“Sure… Well, I’ll go do that. Oh, lemme give you my new number. I had to get a new phone” said Akira as he takes out his phone.

“I see… Well make sure you take care of that one- looks expensive” said Takemi. They exchange numbers, and Akira takes off.

*****

Akira makes his way back to the street outside, and takes a right back to where the supermarket is. He looks up at the sky, adns ees the sun almost right above him- not realizing how much time he spent in Takemi’s office. He passes by more familiar faces in the area as he takes another right and walks down the street to the Yongen-Jaya station.

He gets on the next subway train to Shibuya, and while waiting for his stop he manages to find a seat. As he sits there he once again finds himself daydreaming; this time about all the countless rides on this exact route to and from school he would take, and when he would find a seat he would often read various books he would get his hands on. While he certainly didn’t miss the smell, the nostalgia rush was a nice feeling to have- even if it was because of a subway train. He rides it all the way to the Shibuya subway station, and gets off on the platform. To his right is the stairway in which he walks up. As he makes his way up to the underground walkway he is visually overthrown by all the various billboards and kiosks that he forgot littered the space. Once he sees the giant Big Bang Burger flyer hung up on the wall- showing all who pass that it is open 24 hours- he knows he is truly in the heart of Tokyo. Looking at the flyer however, brings back the unsettling memories of Okumura- Haru’s father, and his palace. “ I wonder how Haru is faring nowadays… ” Akira thinks. He passes over a card reader- bag in hand- and head up to Station Square. There, he heads onto Shibuya Central Street.

“Finally, I’m here” said Akira as he lets out a sigh. This part of town is as busy as ever; with passerby so caught up on their own lives to even notice your existence. Akira sees the ‘Taiheido Bookstore’ in the distance, and walks over. As he enters he walks straight up to the counter.

“Good afternoon, welcome. How may I help you?” says the book clerk at front.

“Hello. I’m here on Tae Takemi’s behalf to deliver a left bag at her office. She said it belongs to someone here” said Akira as he hands the clerk the bag.

“Oh! Thank god- thank you some of my personal info was in this bag, and I didn’t want it lost around Tokyo somewhere. Takemi is someone I can trust- despite all the rumors that were spreading about her, and I guess you are someone Takemi can trust since she gave it to you- thought now that I get a better look you do look familiar…” said the book clerk.

“I used to get books here all the time around the beginning of the year” said Akira.

“Right right. Anyways, is there anything I can do to help you?” asked the book clerk.

“Eh, no- I was sent here just to do that. But I’ll look around for a bit” said Akira.

“Okay. I’m here if you need anything!” said the book clerk. Akira then walked around the store a bit to see if anything peaked his interest. He sees some of the books he had bought from here have been restocked, and the newest issue of ‘Vague’ Magazine sitting on display near the front. He looks around the place and starts the thing that it seems more lavish than what he remembers. Akira takes it all in, breathing in the ‘new book smell’ in the air, and heads out.

“I’ll stop by another time,” said Akira as he leaves.

“Okay! Have a nice day!” said the book clerk.

Akira then heads down Central Street a bit- looking at various stores he used to shop in- like the ‘Scarlet DVD Store’, the beef bowl shop ‘Ore No Beko’, the ‘777 Triple Seven’ store,among others. “ Surely didn’t miss the weird uniforms there… I should remember to re-apply here sometime...” thought Akira as he passed in front of the store 777 store. Suddenly, someone walks out of the store rubbing their head, and looking disappointed with their head down.

“Man, another sale bites the dust… Mom’s gonna be mad at me just ‘cause the train was delayed gettin’ here…” the boy said as he walked out of the store. Suddenly the boy lifts there head, and looks into Akira’s eyes. Suddenly, the boy’s face changes drastically. Akira then gets shocked himself, as he realizes he knows this person.

“Ryuji?” said Akira

“A-Akira!?” said a shocked Ryuji as he face started to blush.

“W-What are you doing?” asked Akira.

“What am I- What are YOU doing here!? What the F man!” said an ecstatic Ryuji as he rushes in to hug Akira. 

“I didn’t even recognize you…” said Akira.

“Huh?” said Ryuji.

“Your hair” said Akira as he points to Ryuji’s head.

“Oh, hehe. It’s a long story, but I’m just trying to change my act and how people look at me. Thought a good first step was gettin’ rid of the rebellious hair” said Ryuji as he explained his newly dyed black hair.

“Looks good on you- well, your natural hair color should look good but yea” said Akira.

“Hehe. Well it’s not exact, but it’s close. B-But man, what the fuck! You’re here! I haven’t spoken to you in forever!” said Ryuji grinning ear-to-ear.

“Yea, I thought if I came down here I would run into someone I knew- you are the first” said Akira.

“Well, I wanna hear about what brings you back so suddenly!” said Ryuji.

“Aren’t you busy?” asked Akira.

“Nah- not anymore at least. Mom sent me down here to do grocery shopping for sales, but I was late. Since I aint got nothing to show for it- might as well spend the rest of my time with you. Come on, lets go sit near the gym and talk” said Ryuji. Akira and Ryuji then went to sit on a bench nearby where went on to explain briefly why he is back in the area to Ryuji- from the uncertainty down to the school consideration. Hearing this, Ryuji’s face lit up.

“Y-You might come back here?? That’s awesome! I know I can’t really influence your decision, but you already know I would like it if you stayed… I missed you…” said Ryuji blushingly as he looked down from embarrassment.

“I missed you too. Now, tell me what inspired this hair change?” asked Akira.

“Well… After you left I started to feel stumped on what to do- where to go. I don't wanna lose momentum- you know, going from saving all of Shibuya, and so many innocent people, to just back to being some douche. Being with the gang- being with you- helped me realize that in order to make change you have to spearhead your own cause. So, I started considering being in roles that revolve around supporting others to achieve their goals” said Ryuji.

“That sounds like what Kamoshida should have been” said Akira.

“You are catching my drift. Kamoshida should have been someone for me to help lift me up- instead he spent his time in his own ego, and bringing down students like Shiho and Mishima- uh… Have you seen him yet?” asked Ryuji.

“No, why? You’re the first guy I ran into today- besides Sojiro” said Akira.

“Oh really? Okay…” said Ryuji as a weight gets lifted off his shoulders, “It’s nothing- just wonderin’. But yea, I essentially felt like maybe I can continue on our legacy in a fitting way by being some type of coach to those who’s light shine far greater than the confines of Tokyo. The Phantom Thieves… They touched the world… I wanna make an impact too- in others. Who knows where I would of been if Kamoshida didn’t F me over- well, I wouldn’t of met you this way, but you get what I mean” 

“And the hair fits into this?...” said Akira confused.

“Oh! Well, I wanna go to a university for like Sports Management or Business- some shit like that, where I can help coach people and be like Kamoshida. I won’t be stealin’ hearts, but I’ll be stealin’ medals right under our competitors! Well- at least in my dreams… I thought that in order to do a role like that justice I needed to first change myself, and I only dyed my hair to show some sort of rebellion. I no longer feel that need- I wanna be approachable and sympathize with others. So, I’ve been hittin’ the books my last semester, and changing up my act- my grades and attitude really have changed I think!” said Ryuji.

“Yea- you are more confident and positive. I feel it” said Akira making Ryuji blush.

“R-Really… Thanks. Well yea, that’s what I want to do, but I’m still having trouble… Attempting to have your efforts not go unnoticed is easier said. I… I know I said I wouldn’t, but I have considered joining Track in the fall. In the last moments in Shido’s Palace… I truly felt dependable- like only I could do something, and everyone trusted me. I was able to run to that boat- despite my leg! I… I felt so alive then. Track deals with a lot of dependability, so I am considering that” said Ryuji.

“I think that all sounds like a good idea. What’s stopping you?” asked Akira.

“W-Well… My injury isn’t exactly better- in fact after the adrenaline wore off and weeks went by my leg started to feel the affects of all that palace crawling and Mementos craziness. I need to train more- get stronger so I can pull my own weight. I don’t wanna fall too behind you- ‘cause I’ll always be by your side just like you were with me” said Ryuji making Akira get surprised.

“Wow, I’m glad that our bond hasn’t seem to of faded even after the time I couldn’t speak to you,” said Akira. Ryuji then looked down.

“No… On the contrary… It…” said Ryuji as he sighs.

“Hm?” said Akira.

“...Akira… When you left. That is when a lot of this culture shock hit. It hit probably all of us in the group actually. Our leader- who’s gaul drove us all- was off on his own and we had to all do the same. It was in that moment where I truly started to see… How much I wanted you around” said Ryuji as he started to blush more. 

“What are you?...” said Akira a bit taken back.

“N-Nothing just forget it” said Ryuji as he gets up and starts pacing around. Suddenly, Akira grabs his hand.

“Calm down. Sit” said Akira. 

“Akira…” said Ryuji lost for words. He then sits back down.

“I would… I would really like it if- while you are here- you could keep pushing me and aiding me along my journey. And I want you to do that… Because I don’t wanna be apart from you again” said Ryuji as his face turns beat red.

“You… Don’t wanna be apart from me? I didn’t know me leaving had that effect on you-”

“It did! I’m sorry if I didn’t show it as much- I didn’t know myself but I didn’t think I was taking advantage of you please don’t think that. I just… I want to make sure I keep having your support, and that I can keep supporting you… I wanted to tell you this and then some for awhile, but when I would text you even ‘hi’ the msg wouldn’t even go through. You have been dead in the group for a minute as well” said Ryuji as he finally looks Akira dead in the eyes.

“The number was turned off after I broke it so payments didn’t go through. But- Is that how you feel?” asked Akira.

“Y-Yea… I know it’s weird for me of all people to say that- and I know it’s a bit gay but… I don’t know man… It’s just what is in my heart… What I desire” said Ryuji.

“I…” Akira said lost for words. In truth, he didn’t know what to say. Ryuji essentially admitted that he has feelings for Akira, and wants him around more than he did before. Akira looks to Ryuji- this newfound Ryuji- with a different light than before; to compare the Ryuji that was his teammate to this Ryuji would almost be disingenuous to the work Ryuji has been putting in the past few months.

“I know it’s a lot to take in right now- please don’t feel pressured to say anything about it yet. I didn’t even know I would see you today- I just didn’t wanna spend another second without you knowing how much you mean to me. If you don’t end up feeling the same- I understand, but just… keep this between us for now okay?...” said Ryuji.

“Are you ashamed of how you feel about me?” asked Akira.

“N-No! No I’m not! it’s just…” said Ryuji as he sinks in his seat.

“I’m pulling your leg- I get it. It would be accurate to say that I’m not sure of what to say to that right now- I have so much going on in my head. But, what I definitely can tell you Ryuji, is that I want you to know that you are someone that will be in my life ‘til I die- whether there is something 'special' added onto it or not” said Akira. Ryuji, shocked, starts to blush.

“So no matter what happens we will always be close... Hehe, man… You are gonna make me get flustered and shit… Hehe” said Ryuji as he tries to fight back any potential tears.

“Hey- Futaba is gonna try and round up everyone later tonight. It’s suppose to be a celebration that I am here. You better come” said Akira.

“You know, I did think her randomly wanting us all to come to LeBlanc was weird. But know that I know it’s you I’ll be there. Hey, I gotta go home and situate stuff out with my mom if I’m gonna be able to hang out later- I’ll catch you later then?” said Ryuji.

“Definitely. It was great seeing you, Ryuji. Really” said Akira as he opened up his arms. Ryuji smiled.

“Ditto, man” said Ryuji as he came in for an embracing hug. The two of them hugged each other- sharing between them the bond like the blood oathed Confidants they are. Ryuji then looked into Akira’s eyes- there faces inches away from each other. Suddenly, Ryuji got an idea. “Oh, hey gimme your number. I need to stay in contact with you for sure so don’t have fuckin’ Morgana play with the shit!”

“Heh, I won’t. Give me your phone” said Akira as Ryuji hands him his phone.

“And how come you didn’t just text us as soon as you got a new phone?” asked Ryuji.

“Listen- I know you wanted to talk to me, but I still had a lot goin’ on- I’m sorry” said Akira.

“It’s fine dude, I’m just yankin’ your chain” said Ryuji.

“Well, maybe I’ll give this some real thought and… You can yank my chain some more in the future” said Akira as he raises one eyebrow. Ryuji chuckles as he blushes.

“You are so corny for that shit, haha! With the jokes I see. But okay man- just think about it- seriously” said Ryuji.

“Who said I was joking. But Yea yea- I get it. I’ll see you man” said Akira. Ryuji blushes a bit more.

“Hehe… Well, yea. Bye Joker! Oh- it’s been awhile since I’ve said that, hehe. Now that might of been corny” said Ryuji as he starts to walk away.

“Yea, it kinda was. I’ll forgive you though” said Akira jokingly. 

“Okay- bye Akira!” said Ryuji as he waves goodbye as he disappears into the Shibuya crowd- all while looking back at Akira the whole time. Akira then sighs, and looks up to the sky.

“ Ryuji… Likes me? What should I do?... ” thought Akira. For now Akira couldn’t wade in that water just yet. He opted to get up and walk around the Central Street some more, and see who else he might run into.

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

Making his way downtown, Akira looked around Central Street some more- aimlessly walking about.  As feels around in his pocket he notices that he has some change from having to break bills for the train. “ Hmm… I could go buy some stuff while I’m here… ” thought Akira as he looked around the afternoon radiated city. His glasses reflected off the beaming sun as he looked down the street, and as he fixed his eyes at a particular store down the street he started to walk towards it.

“I’ll go hit up ‘Rocinante’ for a bit,” said Akira as he walked to the Discount Store at the end of the streetside. As he walked up to the store front he started to look at the flashing yellow lights atop of the awning, and glanced around at the condensed packed store items that litter the outside.  

“Hello! Welcome to Rocinante, how may I help you?” asked the store clerk.

“Uh, I’m just lookin’ around- I haven’t been here in while” said Akira.

“Oh, so you been here before- I think I recognize you… Anyways, take a look around and if you need help finding anything just let me know- the store is pretty jam packed!” said the store clerk. Akira perused around the store- looking at all the knick knacks that are advertised all around him. Suddenly, he notices a mask in the back of the store. 

“Huh, so they still have those weird Thief Masks that were popular when the Phantom Thieves were out… Well, it is in the back of the store- practically collecting dust. But-...” said Akira as he looked a bit over, and saw packagess of the same mask on the floor right next to some snacks.

“Oh, those masks? They are still in demand but don’t sell fairly often. But the wafers are still good, so we have a lot of stocked up merchandise of the Phantom Thieves; guess people’s belief in the Thieves still lives on- even though they haven’t stolen a heart in awhile after that whole Shido thing. Guess they thought of him as their biggest target- being a corrupt politician ready to lead all of Japan- and that it would regulate everything else” said the store clerk. Hearing this, Akria was very alarmed at his analisis- one that was fairly close to the truth of the matter.

“Are you a fan of the Thieves?” asked Akira,

“Eh, they bring business. But, their convictions seemed true and real. Who knows anyways. Maybe one day my heart will be stolen! Haha” said the store clerk. As they talked Akira also noticed the Calling Postcards that used to be sold when he used to live in the area sitting in the corner of the packages too.

“Well you seem alright to me- though, I’m just a customer looking around your shop” said Akira.

“You are right, well either way if you see something else just holler and I’ll see what I can do to help,” said the store clerk. Akira nods, and continues to look around.

As Akira walked around to the front he noticed Snack Packs, and Garden Energy near the front desk. Suddenly he thought, “ Hm, Well now that the upstairs is clean I could keep another plant up there. And If we are going to all get together tonight I guess having snacks would be nice. Ryuji likes them I think… ”. Akira went to grab some both, and headed to the front desk to buy them.

“Will that be all for today?” asked the store clerk. 

“Yes” said Akira. He paid for the contents, grabbed the bags, and headed out.

“Have a nice day!’ said the store clerk.

*****

Akira, bags in hand, walks down Central Street- wondering if he should go home or shop some more since he is in the area. He sighed from not being able to make up his mind, and looked around some more. Suddenly, he looked to his right down an alleyway, and remembered another shop that he could visit. He walked around the corner, and there it was- one familiar place that he visited more often than most as his days as a Phantom Thief.

He arrived in front of ‘Untouchable’, the Airshop where he would get good deals on toy weapons for his Palace and Mementos roaming. He walked in, and instantly recognizes the familiar smell; one like an old antique store that had many items on overstocked shelves, and way too much history build within.  He walked passed the racks of items to the front desk where no one was- however the store was indeed open as the door was unlocked and the lights were on. Suddenly, a groggy man walked out from the back.

“Sorry I was in the back organizing items, what are you in here fo-” the man stopped in his tracks as he looked at who the customer was.

“Hey there, Iwai” said Akira.

“Akira!” said Iwai as his stone face lightens into a hearty smile. Iwai then comes from behind the desk, walks up to Akira, and gives him a hug.

“Hey- hehe. I didn’t think you hugged men like that” said Akira.

“Oh quit it- I’ve softened up a bit now that me and Kaoru are closer I think- though, I only have you to thank for that,” said Iwai as he smiled. Akira could tell that Iwai was indeed more happier since he last saw him.

“That’s great to here. So, how have things been? Surprised you still are running this store” said Akira as he looked around.

“Yea, well while the main reason I started was due to my need to support and protect Kaoru due to the shit I was in, but  now as that weight has been lifted- and the secrets between me and Kaoru as lessened- I feel less dread about being here. Kaoru worries about me less- and I bring him by here more often now that he knows everything, but I think I can still tell that he would rather I be in a different profession. So, I’ve been considering selling the place and perhaps pursuing a new endeavor. But until then, Imma be sellin’ the shit here” said Iwai.

“Hm, well as long as you are outta dodge and the Yakuza arne’t after you” said Akira.

“Not really- me and my son are left alone, which is how I want it. There’s no real way to cut ties 100% and live as if that never happened, but I’m at a point where I have no bad blood and I am able to continue life without my demons always coming back to bite me- ‘ya know? Anyways- the more important question is what the heck are you doing here?! I thought you went back to your hometown” asked Iwai.

“I decided that Imma spend summer here to figure out my life and what I wanna do in terms of school- go back to Shujin or somewhere else for my 3rd year. And I wanted to stop by and see some of my trusted blood oaths” said Akira- causing Iwai to laugh.

“Well, you make it sound weird when you say it like that- but I understand. I most definitely cherish our bond as well, and thanks for stopping by. I would say I could stay and chat, but I actually was about to close up shop early today; I’m spending some father-son time with Kaoru at Yoyogi Park- you know, the park that ain’t too far from here?” said Iwai.

“Hm, yea I knew there was a park in Shibuya- don’t think I went to that one before,” said Akira.

“Ah, well Kaoru should already be there; I told ‘em I would run shop for the morning and close around afternoon. He insisted that I didn’t have to, but I wanted to. I mean- if you aren't too busy, you could come with us” said Iwai.

“But it’s father-son time?” said Akira confused.

“Well, it's not like me and him don’t do outings often- and he likes you, so he would like to see you as well I’m sure. But up to you- you are not obligated” said Iwai as he grabs a bag he set behind the counter and his keys, “I’ll drive back home too if you want”

“Hm, well I’m flattered you wanna spend time in the park with me- sure” said Akira. Iwai gets caught off guard by his response, and blushes.

“H-Hey, don’t get the wrong idea okay kid? I haven't seen ‘ya in months!” said Iwai. Akira laughs as Iwai gets flustered.

“Calm down. I got time. Can I leave this stuff in your car then?” asked Akira as he lifts his shopping bags.

“Yea yea- sure. Come on, let’s go. My car’s around back- I’ll lock up shop, you go to the parking lot” said Iwai.

Akira makes his way out of Untouchable holding his bags, and walks down the street to the parking lot. However, before he turns the bend he looks on to the street he is on; noticing the narrow streets littered with bicycles and discarded newspapers. He suddenly recalls the Velvet Room gate that he could visit to enter the Velvet Room on this very street- a door only visible to him. “ Hmm… I wonder how they all are doing… Lavenza and Igor… I can't visit there anymore, right? Hm... I guess I’ll never know… It’s best to just not think of things I can no longer change. But, I hope they are doing alright ” thought Akira as he thought of his ‘rehabilitation' he was somewhat forced into. Akira sighs, and continues off to the parking lot. However, as he walks, a blue butterfly flies past his face.

“Wha-?” said a startled Akira. However, before he could even realize what flew past him it flew away.

“Are you okay kid? You do know where the parking lot is right?” said iwai as he snuck up behind Akira.

“Huh? N-No, I’m fine. I think a fly ran across my face is all. But the parking lot is… This way?” asked an unsure Akira as he pointed in a random direction. Iwai scoffs.

“Just come with me- don’t tell me you are this hopeless coming back to Shibuya” said Iwai.

“N-No!” said Akira a bit embarrassed. However, iwai just chuckles and pats Akira’s back.

“ Calm down , hehe. Just pullin’ your leg. Come, follow me” said Iwai as he walked down a different path than Akira thought to his car. Akira sets his bags in Iwai’s backseat, and sits shotgun next to Iwai. They then make their way to Yoyogi Park.

*****

Iwai parks his car in the park’s parking lot, and as Akira gets out the nice park vreeze hits him; an assortment of flower aroma’s, animals, and food smells hit Akira’s senses. He looks around the grandiose park and takes in its beauty.

“Wow, I have to come back here more often!” said Akira. 

“Well the park is yours for the taking- just don’t come here at night doing anything you shouldn’t tell your momma” said Iwai as he chuckled. 

“Hey- I wouldn’t do that type of stuff in a park; Too open” said Akira.

“Oh- so your train has already left the station??” ponders Iwai. Akira looks over in surprise; Iwai was asking about his virginity most definitely.

“No, I’m 17 but I’m still a virgin- if that’s what you are asking. I’m not that much of a bad boy as you think” said Akira. Iwai laughs.

“Well being a virgin at that age is fine- you talk like it’s not normal. But ah, when I was your age I was up to some shit- lemme tell ‘ya” said Iwai as he laughs to himself, “Well, you are old enough to do that kinda stuff I suppose- just choose the right person and make it last”

“ I feel like he’s a father giving me dating and sex advice… ” thought Akira with a confused face. “I know many high schoolers that have had sex- the guys talk often…. You give your son sex advice like this too- or is this exclusive to me?” asked Akira jokingly.

“Kaoru I think is still a virgin- but who knows. He’s got a good head on his shoulders, but I think he would at least introduce the person he is interested to me. I’m kinda laid back with that kinda stuff. Hey- why not find out for me? Hehe” said Iwai.

“I mean, if the topic comes up and I remember- sure” said Akira. Iwai then starts to walk off.

“Hey- I’m gonna go pay for parking, Kaoru should be waiting somewhere on Zelkova Avenue If you wanna go on ahead” said Iwai. Akira ponders the thought to himself.

“Hm… Well I would but I don’t know where it is” said Akira. Iwai smacks his head.

“Oh yeah- duh. Well, there are maps. And the avenue isn’t too hard to miss” said Iwai.

“I’ll figure it out,” said Akira. If I get lost hopefully my parental guardian will find me” said Akira as he flares his eyes at Iwai.

“Oh- I’m totally not in charge of you here” said Iwai as he laughs.

“But you are the only adult here” said Akira making a point.

“Agh, okay. Is your number the same? My texts don’t go through anymore now that I remember…” said Iwai.

“Yeah, I did. My cat messed my phone up. Here you go” said Akira as they exchanged numbers. 

“Okay, well if you get lost little boy- call me. Don’t go crying if you do though” said Iwai as he chuckles.

“Gotcha” said Akira.

*****

Akira found himself in the Zelkova Avenue- using park maps and wit to get there. Feeling like he was able to locate the area by himself made him feel as if his own Knowledge and Guts went up. He walks down the stone path- looking at all the people walking about with their children and/or pets. As he looks off to the side he notices a man sitting down at a bench with an easel painting a portrait of another male. As he gets closer, he realizes that he notices both men! The man painting, facing away from Akira, had blue hair, and was concentrated intensely on his work. The other male sitting there getting his portrait painted looked up at Akira however, and as he did he face lit up.

“O-Oh my god!” said the male. This caused the painter to get alerted.

“Please be still- it makes it hard to capture your facial features correctly. What is it that alerted you-” said the painter as he turned around to see Akira looking at him.

“Akira!” said both the males as they looked shocked at who they were both simultaneously realizing was there.

Akira could identify both men as Yusuke, and Kaoru. He waved at them as he starstruck both men. Yusuke stood up immediately in surprise.

“A-Akira! What are you doing here?!” asked Yusuke.

“You know him too Mr. Kitagawa?” asked Kaoru. Yusuke turned to Kaoru.

“Yes, we are close friends, but I wasn’t aware of your return!” said a frantic Yusuke.

“Calm down- what are you guys doing?” asked Akira. 

“I was waiting for my father here since we were suppose to hang out, and this man asked me if I would wanna get painted while I waited,” said Kaoru. Yusuke smiles.

“We are essentially done- I was putting finishing touches” said Yusuke as he turns to Kaoru, “But how do you know Akira?”

“He knows my father” said Kaoru. Suddenly, Akira walks up to Yusuke’s ear.

“I used to buy our weapons from him…” whispered Akira to Yusuke. Yusuke nodded his head, and smiled.

“Ah, well I guess it was fate that we meet here at this park then!” said Yusuke.

“I came here with your father by the way- he’s paying for parking and I went on ahead” said Akira. Kaoru’s face lit up.

“Oh really?! That’s awesome, so he really is here! Hehe, I wanna show him this portrait of me!” said a gleeful Kaoru.

“Well, if you would re-compose yourself I can finish the finishing touches. Akira, please wait as I finish and we can talk later” said Yusuke.

“Got it” said Akira. Kaoru then took back his original pose, and Yusuke finished the painting. By the time it was done, Iwai had walked up to them.

“Ah, found you all- but, what is goin on?” asked Iwai.

“Dad! This man painted me for free! Look at it!” said Kaoru. Yusuke got up, and holds up the painting to Iwai.

“Hello, I’m Yusuke Kitagawa, and I just wanted to paint a passerby in the park and got the chance with your son. I’m also acquainted with Akira here- as I have learned you are as well” said Yusuke.

“Oh really? That’s a coincidence. Well, this painting looks really nice!” said Iwai as he looks at the painting.

“Here- it’s yours. It’s a bit wet near the face, but otherwise it’s fine” said Yusuke. 

“I really like it, dad! Thank you Yusuke!” said Kaoru smiling as he bows to Yusuke. Iwai then gives Kaoru a hug.

“Yea, I really like it as well- thank you Yusuke. Akira, you sure have talented friends” said Iwai.

“Talented and trustworthy” said Akira giving Yusuke a compliment- causing Yusuke to blush.

“Hehe thank you all. But okay Akira- tell me what are you doing here??” requested Yusuke. 

“Looks like you sit gotta catch up with all your friends. Me and Kaoru are gonna walk around a bit- you guys catch up and we will meet back here in a minute or so- I only put an hour in the meter so we won’t be staying too long Akira” said Iwai. 

“Can we get some ice cream?” asked Kaoru.

“I’ll get some for all of us- come, let’s give ‘em some space kid” said Iwai as he hurried Kaoru along as they walk with their new painting in hand. As they leave and it’s just Yusuke and Akira, Akira begins to talk.

“Okay Yusuke, so the reason why I’m back is-” Akira speaks before he is cut off by Yusuke rushing in for a hug!

“I’ve missed you… I haven’t seen you in forever- I’m sorry I couldn’t help myself” said a blushed Yusuke.

“It’s fine… Come on Yusuke people are starting to stare…” said Akira. Yusuke then let go.

“I’m sorry” said Yusuke as he sighed to calm down, “Let’s go sit down”. They then go sit on a nearby bench, and Akira begins to tell the same story he told to Futaba, Sojiro, and Iwai- about his school issue and him staying in the area for the summer, as well as Morgana ruining his phone. 

“Wow… Well, that’s nice that you are considering coming back. I understand being surrounded by uncertainty in the direction you should walk in. But, what I can tell you- if anything with aid in your decision this soon- is following where your passion is the more intense, and don’t give up following it if it’s what you truly desire. And, I’ll be there to help you discover that- just like you were there for me when I was unsure of my own self Akira” said Yusuke.

“How have you been since we last saw each other, Yusuke?” asked Akira.

“Many improvements; I started the process in creating my own studio, the ' Kitagawa Studios ' due to grant money I got from a recent showcase I had done since you had left. Since then, I have been creating on my own terms- hoping to inspire people with my work. While we cannot save others through our previous methods anymore, I believe I can change the world’s perception on things with art- much like my inspirations have done over the generations like Da Vinci, Van Goh, Michaelangelo” said Yusuke as he describes his progress in his own life.

“That’s awesome Yusuke!” said Akira.

“ But, all of that isn’t without tribulations- the space I have rented isn’t at a condition to even have viewings. Akira, I know this might be much to ask since you just came back, but would you be able to aid me in renovating the small space I have? I also use the studio as a place to live as well. I need to do things like cleaning, buying supplies, and whatnot” asked Yusuke. Akira ponders the request.

“Hm, well I’ll be glad to help with whatever I can do- though, I’m not sure what I can do to help you find supplies and stuff, but whatever I can, I will,” said Akira determined to help his friend. Yusuke smiles hearing this.

“Thank you, hearing this has put some weight off my shoulders; I had the intention of asking the others, but I didn’t wanna burden them with my issues. But you… I don’t know, I didn’t feel that way… Perhaps having you around again will help me feel more inspired…” said Yusuke.

“Hm?” said Akira as he heard this.

“I… I feel like- in retrospect- when you were around me you opened many doors for me that I thought were locked- or were not there in the first place. You helped ignite a fire in me I thought was lost, and helped me up when I was knocked down my Madarame… Not only am I forever grateful, but I think your energy… Your light… Is sacrosanct in my development” said Yusuke as he blushes.

“So… What are you saying??” asked a confused Akira.

“In short- I would like you to be my ‘muse’” said Yusuke.

“Like… What you wanted Ann to be like with the naked painting?” asked Akira. Yusuke then got a shocked look in his eyes.

“Yes… Yes! Something like that! I think… I have been painting passerby in hopes to find a spark; something that would give me a new vision or passion- like our journeys in Mementos gave me. But, now I think what I really was searching for is a light that emulated yours. But you- Akira- are un-emulatable. I feel foolish for thinking something like that could happen… Akira, would you do that for me?” asked Yusuke.

“P-Pose naked??” asked a nervous Akira.

“Well, it doesn't have to be that, but perhaps my next breakthrough could be me capturing all the greatest attributes of the one that inspired me more than anyone else on this planet in a painting! And, you being in the most primal state would aid in that. You did consider the idea at Kanda Church that one time if you remember” said Yusuke. Akira then recalls that moment in Kanda Church where he did, in fact, do so when attempting to find new inspiration for Yusuke when he was- at the time- going about it in a non-genuine way.

“... Let me think about it, okay?” asked Akira. Yusuke smiles.

“It’s all on your terms; you helping me with the studio is enough- but that will help as well,” said Yusuke. Akira sighed to himself and rubs his head.

“ I feel like I just unintentionally got myself in a mess I wasn’t expecting… Why did I have to bring that up?... ” thought Akira.

“So, I got a message from Futaba about a gathering later tonight; I was already going to show up to their initial planned one, but it seems that they want all of us to hang at LeBlanc. I thought that was an interesting choice-  but now that I know you are here I can see why it was set there. Is my deduction correct?” asked Yusuke.

“Yup,” said Akira.

“I see… Well, I’ll have to go back to my studio and take back my supplies, but I will be showing up later. Listen- I’m suppose to meet with a gallery executive about another showcase later this week- I’ll let you go now and see you later, okay?” said Yusuke as he got up and gathered his things.

“That’s fine. Hey- remind me of that showcase; I’ll go there and see you, okay? said Akira.

“I will. It was… Really nice seeing you Akira” said Yusuke as he starts to walk. However, as he leaves Iwai and Kaoru return- both holding two ice cream cones alongside the painting.

“Hey, you headin’ off? I got your ice cream right here” asked Iwai to Yusuke.

“Yes, I apologize but I have business matters to attend to, but thank you Kaoru for letting me paint you, and I hope you all have a wonderful rest of your day” said Yusuke as he bows.

“Here, this is yours- think of it as payment for the painting” said Iwai as he hands one cone to Yusuke.

“Thanks Yusuke!” said Kaoru as he bows as well. 

“No problem, and thank you. Goodbye” said Yusuke as he bows once more to take the ice cream walks off- but not without looking back one more time at Akira, and blushes to himself.  Iwai then walks to Akira.

“Here Akira” said Kaoru as he hands him one cone.

“Thanks” said Akira.

“Hey, let’s walk around a bit and then I’ll drive you home okay kid?” said Iwai to Akira.

“Works out for me” said Akira. Iwai, Kaoru, and Akira then walked around the park- telling stories and catching up while doing so. Iwai was pleased in retrospect to bring Akira along- as Kaoru was all smiles as Akira and him talked; it was just like yesterday to Iwai that there meetings were surrounded in doubt and tension as he held precious info from his own son. With more room for laughter in all their lives, they enjoyed their leisurely walk until it was ready to head back to Iwai’s car and take Akira back home.

*****

“Don’t stay a stranger now ‘ya hear?” said Iwai as he peers through his cracked passenger seat window to Akira as he closes the door to his car parked around the corner from LeBlanc with his bags in hand. 

“I won’t- I promise” said Akira.

“It was nice seein’ you Akira- see you later!” said Kaoru.

“You too. Enjoy Yusuke’s painting as well!” said Akira to Kaoru with a smile. Kaoru waved ‘goodbye’ in the backseat. Iwai then looked back at Kaoru.

“Okay- get in the front seat son- I’m not a taxi!” said Iwai with a grin. Kaoru got out of the car as Akira started to walk away, got in the front seat, and Iwai drove away.

Akira then found himself in front of Leblanc once more as the heat started to dwindle in the afternoon weather. However, he noticed that there was more plants outside than there were when he first arrived- as it someone just set them out. Suddenly, the LeBlanc door opens, and out comes Futaba carrying another potted plant.

“Oh hey Akira! Sojiro has a plant inside for your attic- I went shopping for more plants ‘cause I felt like the place could use some botany to celebrate your stay!” said Futaba. She sets down the pot, wipes her hands together, and waves to Akira.

“Oh really, the irony; I bought some plant fertilizer and thought to buy one myself later- guess that kills a step” said Akira. 

He steps foot inside, and to his right he sees plants sitting against the wall.

“That one over there is yours!” said Futaba as she points to the plants he was looking at.

“Okay” said Akira. Suddenly, Morgana comes running across the room.

“There you are! I didn’t think you would be gone all day! You were just going around the corner!” said Morgana annoyed.

“Sorry- I went on a wild goose chase ‘cause Takemi wanted me to go to Shibuya to deliver a bag, I then ran into Ryuji, talked to the Iwai- who then invited me to a park I never been to see his son, and then ran into Yusuke” said Akira.

“Wow, well you sure did do a lot!” said Morgana. 

“Is that Akira I hear?” said Sojiro as he heads downstairs from the attic, “Hey there. I was just moving around some more stuff, and giving your bed covers and whatnot”

“Thank you. Hopefully the car wasn’t a bother” said Akira.

“Hey!” said Morgana.

“Not at all- in fact, it was pretty relaxed near the AC pretty much the whole time” said Sojiro chuckling.

“Morgana was chillin’!” said Futaba as she sat at the bar counter.

“Anyways, I have an assortment of things brewin and cookin’ for your little get together later. I’ll get outta your hair in a bit, and you guys can party it up!” said Sojiro.

“Nonsense- you are staying for the party!” said Futaba annoyed.

“Hehe- okay okay! Anyways, I gotta go out and buy some more things anyways, so hold down the fort for a bit you guys” said Sojiro as he goes to walk out the store. 

“Gotcha!” said Futaba. As the door closes Morgana leaps up on the front counter.

“Okay guys- we got an hour or so before everyone is supposed to be here. Make sure we have everything set!” said Morgana excited.

“Calm down” said Akira.

“Yea- Sojiro got it! I also texted them to bring things to eat like snacks if they wanted to as well” said Futaba.

“I also bought snacks as well,” said Akira as he set down his bags.

“Perfect!” said Futaba.

“I’ll go take this plant up, and we will prepare for the party,” said Akira. He then goes and takes the plant to his room- along with the Garden Energy. After he sets them in their desired place he reflects on the state of his room- looking almost the same as it did before he left home months ago. He sighs in joy, and heads back downstairs to help Futaba with preparations for what now is Akira’s welcoming home party.

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

An hour or so has passed since Akira, Futaba, Sojiro have started the preparations for the group get together happening later- with Morgana’s guidance as well. Sojiro has since came back with all the needed materials that he needs to make the best curry dishes that he can, and Futaba decorated the cafe with streamers and decorative plates for all to eat on. Akira pitched in by aiding Sojiro with cleaning dirty dishes that were to be used, as well as brewing coffee for people to drink. Akira, after all the time he spent under Sojiro’s wing, learned a lot about making the perfect cup- and is using his techniques to its fullest for the party. 

“So you wanted to brew 3 different kinds right, Sojiro?” asked Akira as he ties an apron around his waist.

“Yea, stuff’s already set up. Get some of the coffee beans over there and put ‘em to roast. How about… Some ‘Jamaican Blue Mountain’, ‘Mexican Altura’, and ‘Indonesian Kopi Luwak’?” said Sojiro as he stirs away at some curry in a pan.

“Ain’t that Luwak stuff expensive?” asked Futaba. 

“Hehe, yea it is- so it’s best you not mess it up. I think, for this occasion, we ought to go out in style for our boy here- who we haven’t seen in such a long time” said Sojiro with a chuckle.

“I feel honored,” said Akira with a smile, “I’ll go get some of ‘em now”

“Well, stuff’s set up over here! I’ll go get stuff ready to drink!” said Futaba as she goes over to the refrigerator.

“All these aromas~~...” said Morgana as he sits in one of the booth seats in serendipity.

“Hehe, you look like you are in heaven, Morgana!” said Futaba laughing.

“Hehe, the cat probably misses all these scents from all the times we used to cook when they were around” said Sojiro.

“I smell something familiar…” pondered Akira smelling the curry Sojiro was cooking up.

“Smells like a dessert a bit” said Futaba.

“Ha, ‘cause I’m using Chocolate and Honey as secret ingredients! You little kids like desserts so I thought this will add a nice touch. Chocolate can only be added in small amounts to elevate the flavor- too much will kill the flavor balance. Honey softens the meat, and adds sweetness. It’s good to use when you don’t want to dilute the spice’s personality whilst trying to increase the spice level as well as add depth” said Sojiro.

“Huh, well I guess you would know better than us- chocolate curry sounds interesting to say the least!” said Futaba.

“There’s some cinnamon and nutmeg too in there- so I’m gonna be playing very much with sweet and spicy a bit with the curry; don’t worry it will be great the way I’m going to do it!” said Sojiro with confidence. 

*****

The group continue doing their own preparations- all in silence as they concentrate. Morgana leaps up to the bar counter to observe Akira in his coffee making up close, but Akira is so into the coffee making he doesn’t even notice Morgana. Suddenly, the front door opens, and a bell chimes through the curry aroma-filled air.

“Hello!” said a chipper Ryuji as he walked through the door.

“Hey there!” said Sojiro waving to him.

“Hey, Ryuji! You are a bit early- we didn’t expect anyone for another 30 minutes” said Futaba as she sets down jugs of drinks on the table, and empty cups.

“S-Sorry! I was eager to come, and I was in the area. I brought some ramen too- in case anyone was hungry for some, but I see the place smells like food already” said Ryuji.

“Calm down” said Akira.

“Yea, it’s fine- the more food the better! And It’s fine that you are here early, just take a seat” said Futaba.

“Yea- food should be done in a bit so sit tight” said Sojiro. 

“Okay” said Ryuji. He walks over to the table where the cups were set at and sits down with his bag next to him. Akira, still brewing coffee, looks up to Ryuji as he sits, and they lock eyes. Ryuji smiles, and looks away from Akira- which alarms him.

“ Hm… Did he come early to see me? ” thought Akira as he turns off the flames that were heating the coffee, “These are done, Sojiro” said Akira as he takes off his apron.

“Good, just keep them there and hot for us” said Sojiro. 

“I’m gonna go to my room real quick to change my shirt” said Akira. Hearing this, Ryuji starts to get up from his seat.

“H-Hey, can I come up too? I-I haven’t seen your room in awhile” said Ryuji.

“Me and Akira spent a lot of time cleaning Sojiro’s mess! I’m sure everyone’s gonna wanna see your room when they get here- go see all our hard work!” said Futaba with a chuckle.

“H-Hey! I tried my best to keep it clean!” said Sojiro.

“Um, well sure. I just changing my shirt so it’s fine. Man the station, Futaba” said Akira.

“I’ll woman the station actually!” said Futaba jokingly. 

Ryuji grabs his bag, and walks over to Akira, and Ryuji and Akira both walk upstairs to Akira’s room. As they go upstairs Ryuji observes Akira’s room.

*****

“Heh, not too different than what I remember- more cleaner though” said Ryuji. 

“That’s ‘cause Futaba and I just cleaned it. Hopefully it can be sustained now that it’s Summer, and we aren’t doing extra stuff like last one- so I can focus on the small things” said Akira. Ryuji walks around to the shelves in Akira’s room, and starts to ponder.

“I remember when you used to put little gifts we would get you over here- I gave you that ramen bowl remember?! Ah, those were the days…” said Ryuhi reminiscing.

“Yea…” said Akira with a soft smile as he walks over to were his bags are.

“... Where are those gifts now?” asked Ryuji.

“Huh? Well when I left I brought ‘em with me, and they are back home in a safe place; I cherished every one that was given to me- including yours- so I didn’t want them broken” said Akira. Hearing this, Ryuji blushes.

“C-Cherished?... Thanks… Well, I was just wonderin’... I suppose…” said Ryuji as he trails off in thought.

“What?” asked Akira.

“N-Nothing, just change bro” said Ryuji as he sits down on the couch in the room. Akira, a bit confused about Ryuji’s statement decides to just do as he says and change. Akira goes over opens one of his bags, and takes out some clothes. Eager to take off his day clothes, he takes off his black shirt, and goes to put on a beige long-sleeve shirt. As Akira is shirtless Ryuji looks over, and sees Akira’s backside as Akira turns away from him as he fiddles with the sleeves of his beige shirt. Ryuji starts to blush more- unknowingly to Akira. Ryuji starts to scan Akira’s toned body as he lifts the shirt above his head. Ryuji’s eyes scale from the back of Akira’s neck down to his back dimples- just above were his white boxers peaked underneath his red pants as they sagged a bit. 

“ ... When did I start to think about him in this way?... ” thought Ryuji as he folds his legs into his seat, “ I’ve never thought of him in this way when we were Phantom Thieves- at least I don’t think… Valentine’s Day we shared it together ‘cause neither of us had dates… Even Mishima had a date that day… But, even though I was embarrassed that day to not be with a girl- I spent it with the most trusted person I had in my life at that moment. Someone I wanted to protect, and keep safe in my life. When I told him that I liked him- I was so scared… I still like girls but-... Whatever I’m feeling I’m sure of it; Akira changed me, and seeing him like this just proves to me that I feel for him in many ways… I’ve missed him for sure. He kinda looks like a cat- pretty feminine so maybe that’s why I feel this way with him. And his ass in those jeans is just- ”

“Ryuji?” said Akira as he turns around and notices Ryuji lost in thought looking towards him.

“H-Huh?!” said Ryuji startled.

“... I was trying to tell you that I wanted to change out of my pants too actually- if you didn’t mind. Didn’t wanna just get naked in front of you without you knowing” said Akira. Blushing, Ryuji’s eyes open up.

“You are gonna take off your pants?” asked Ryuji.

“You can leave if you’d rather me not do this in front of you,” said Akira.

“N-No, it’s fine! We’ve changed in front of each other many times; like when we went to the baths, or swimming ‘ya know?” said Ryuji. Akira sighed.

“ Well, I’m asking ‘cause you seem very flustered about me doing this… Though, I could just tell him to get out… I turned away ‘cause I was a bit nervous for him to see me, and I know he’s checking me out. But, if I wanted him to not see me changing then I would of just said not to come up with me… Why did I? Why am I somewhat fine with him looking at me in like a... Lucrative way right now?... ” thought Akira.

“Akira? You’re just starin’ at me...” said Ryuji unsure of what Akira’s thinking.

“S-Sorry. Well, I’m just gonna change now” said Akira as he unbuckles his pants and takes off his shoes. 

“Go ahead. I’m just going to flip through the TV if that’s fine- I wanted to know of this show I watch is coming on later and I don’t know how long I’m staying” said Ryuji as he turns on the TV by his side, “Suprised the thing still works- how long has it been up here collecting dust?”

“I have no idea, and go ahead; I’m not sure how long this will be either” said Akira. Ryuji flips through some channels on the TV- but not without paying attention to the unclothing man beside him. Ryuji turns his head away a bit- attempting to act like he isn’t interested in looking, however both of them can tell that’s the one thing he wants. Akira slides his red pants off his legs revealing his boxers. Ryuji’s heart started to race as he analyzed Akira’s ass more, as the thin cotton fabric of his boxers were the only thing keeping him from a clear view of it. 

“I thought he wore just regular boxer- those are boxer briefs! Very tight fitting. It’s perfectly hugging his ass so well… Akira must have gotten more toned when he was away from me!” thought Ryuji as he unfolded his legs and set them tightly together, “Wow… His ass is so bubbly that he almost has a wedgie as his briefs indented in his crack- I can totally see his ass outline. I-I should be staring but… How could I not stare at much a perfect ass right now?! Agh, If only he would turn around…”. Ryuji attempts to move his head to peer around to Akira’s front side ever so slowly to not alert Akira as Akira goes to take out blue denim jeans from his bag. He goes to put them on- jumping around as he fits his legs into the jeans; his ass and balls jiggling about as Ryuji has a better view of is front and back.

“ His bulge is… Wow… ” thought Ryuji. Suddenly, he clenches his legs even tighter.

“That got me thinking- we totally gotta watch some cartoons some time now that I’m back Ryuji; like old times,” said Akira.

“I’d love to man!” said Ryuji blushing with a smile. Akira pulls up his pants, buckles them, and turns to Ryuji as he zips them up.

“I started watching ‘My Hero Academia’ the new anime that’s out right now? I think it’s on it’s second season… Anyways I think we might enjoy that together if you haven’t watched it”

“Oh that show? I totally have seen that but I haven't gotten around to it. We can watch that together for sure!” said Ryuji. Ryuji then looks to Akira’s outfit and sees that he looks changed- with the exception of his shoes being off. “You done changin’?” asked Ryuji.

“Yea. I been in those clothes all day and they were kinda sweaty. I need to take a bath later tonight” said Akira.

“Gotcha” said Ryuji as he starts to blush a bit once more.

“Hm? You alright?” asked Akira.

“Y-Yea. Um… So you remember when we were talking about the gifts and stuff a bit ago?” asked Ryuji.

“Yea?...” said Akira.

“Well… What I was going to say was that I suppose if you don’t have the gifts at the moment, and you might not return back to see them for a while… Maybe we can work on replacing them with new ones- together” said Ryuji. Akira’s eyes opened up.

“Replace them together? W-What do you mean?” said Akira.

“Well… We went out together when I gave you it… Maybe we can do that again” said Ryuji. Suddenly, Akira got what was happening.

“Are you… Asking me out on a date?” said Akira as he blushes. Hearing this Ryuji gets startled

“Wha-!? N-No! I mean, I’m asking for us to… Nevermind, I was just thinking of the past and stuff- it’s fine” rambled Ryuji as he gets up from the seat and attempts to walk away. But just then, Akira grabs his shoulder.

“Calm down, and slow down,” said Akira as he places both hands on each of Ryuji’s shoulders, “I’m not going anywhere anytime soon; we have plenty of time to hang out and do whatever you want Ryuji. You told me your feelings literally hours ago. I understand why you want to hang out and guess what- we already are . Let’s get through tonight, and I promise that we will hang out just how you want at another time”

“I-I didn’t mean ‘let’s go out after this’… Like in the future” said Ryuji.

“Ah, well either way we were already going to hang out. But, in terms of in that context- let me think about it like with everything else, okay?” asked Akira understanding Ryuji’s intent and his feelings.

“... I just want you to know how much I care about you” said Ryuji. Akira blushes.

“I care about you too. Let’s go downstairs okay?” said Akira. Ryuji nods his head, grabs his bag from the seat, and they go to walk downstairs.

In Akira’s mind, this is all a lot for him to still take in; with him worried about school- but also yearning for his trusted Confidants- it’s a bit of mixed emotions rattling through Akira’s mind at this moment. Because he truly does care for Ryuji, he wants to approach this issue when he was the right intellect to go about it the most right way- without hurting his feelings if he happens to jump in too soon, late, or with the wrong intentions. Most of all, he wants to not lead him on and ease both of them into a new chapter in their relationship- one that neither has tried to venture on their own before. As he ponders these thoughts, Sojiro shouts upstairs.

“Ryuji! Bring down the surprise! The gang's all here!” he yelled. 

“Surprise?” asked Ryuji.

“The only ones that know that I’m here is you, Yusuke, and obviously Sojiro and Futaba. So if they are all here and don’t know I am…” said Akira trying to catch Ryuji up.

“Ohhhh- gotcha. Well, I’m honored to show off the surprise to the rest of the Phantom Thieves then!” said Ryuji in glee. He pats Akira on the back and walks downstairs. “Come on!” continued Ryuji as he looked back at Akira.

“Right” said Akira. They both then walked down to greet the rest of the gang.

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

Ryuji takes Akira downstairs to the main floor where the rest of the gang have all walked in at once; Ann, Makoto, Yusuke, and Haru are all sitting down at the bar waiting for what the ‘surprise’ is. Yusuke, flipping through some of the magazines on display on the bar, starts to smiles to himself- knowing what the surprise could be. As Ryuji turns the bend into the main floor he steps to the side- revealing Akira to them. As Makoto, Ann, and Haru look towards them, they all have different reactions of surprise; Makoto completely flabbergasted- as if it was something she thought would never happen, Haru speechless as she holds her hands over her mouth, and Ann screaming from shock- but holding back some irritation. 

“Akira!!!” all three girls shout as they get up from their seats. They all freeze in their tracks- unable to even get close. Ann, moved by seeing her friend after such a long time, takes a few steps forward.

“Oh my god! You are here?! But- why?” shouted Ann.

“You haven’t been in contact with us for a while… And now you are here…"
said Makoto trying to catch her breathe. Haru, silent still, simply looks on in awe.

“I don’t even know what to say… But I’m glad to see you here after all this time” said Haru.

“It’s all a long story guys” said Akira.

“Haha! I was totally just as speechless and going over the top when he walked in out of nowhere this morning” said Futaba.

“So this is why you tried to persuade us to hang out here?” asked asked Makoto.

“That is the assumption I came to my own self” said Yusuke.

“Wait- you are awfully calm Yusuke… Did you already know?! We met up with you at the station, and you just kept this from us!?” said Ann as she turns to Yusuke with a pout.

“My apologies… I ran into him on a whim earlier today. Trust me- I had the reaction you all did, and I didn’t want to ruin it for you all” said Yusuke.

“R-Ryuji, did you find out just now before we got here?” asked Haru.

“Nah- I ran into him in Shibuya earlier today. Almost pissed my pants- I was so shocked” chuckled Ryuji.

“Hey! Is no one gonna notice me!?” said Morgana as he jumped out from under the table.

“Morgana!” shouted Yusuke, Haru, Makoto, and Ann. They all ran over to hug Morgana.

“Oh yea! I had Morgana hide as that would have totally ruined the surprise since you and Ryuji went upstairs. Kinda freaked out when you all came in at once” said Futaba.

“Oh my god! I mean- duh we wouldn’t know you were here, you were hiding!” said Ann as she pets Morgana’s face.

“H-Hey! Stop!” said Morgana.

“I should have questioned your whereabouts if Akira was here. I’m sorry” said Makoto as she smiles looking at Morgana.

“This was sure a surprise… We really are all back together. I’m getting a bit emotional- I’m sorry” said Haru as she wipes a tear from her eye.

“Wow- the cat’s getting a bigger reception than you boy” said Sojiro.

“I don’t know whether to be jealous or not” said Akira. Ryuji pats Akira on the back.

“Don’t worry man- we all appreciate you being here” said Ryuji. Ann then turns back to Akira.

“Oh yea- so why are you here??” asked Ann once more.

“Calm down. I’ll explain it all” said Akira.

“Let’s all sit down and get something to eat and drink. Akira can explain it all then. Probably had to explain himself time and time over today” said Sojiro. 

“You are correct. Let’s all take a step back” said Makoto.

“Yea- and take a step back from petting me too!” said Morgana annoyed.

“I’m sorry Morgana!” said Ann as she grins. They all then re-seat themselves, and Akira goes to sit down at a booth with Ryuji and Yusuke as he goes to tell them why he came back.

*****

“I see… So you are back for educational purposes… But also to see us of course” said Makoto.

“That’s so cool! So we will potentially spend out 3rd year together!” said Ann excited.

“I am looking forward to that- if you happen to make that choice Akira” said Futaba.

“Yea, though I guess me and Makoto won’t be able to experience that anymore” said Haru. Akira then gets surprised, and realized that Haru and Makoto were already 3rd years. 

“Yea…” said Akira.

“But we will be able to see each other at least for summer!” said Ann.

“What do you mean?” asked Akira.

“Ann plans to go abroad for her next step in education- similar to you. Makoto is gonna be hittin’ them books soon for her prosecutor stuff so she’ll be heading off come fall. Haru might still do school, but also company stuff” said Ryuji.

“I’m on track studying to be a Police Commissioner Ryuji- not that. You might be thinking of my sis. It is a conversation I had with Akira once before- about my want to do this- but come the fall I will be hitting the books, hehe” said Makoto.

“Well, I can see you have been focusing primarily on studies- more so than before just by how you look,” said Akira.

“What do you mean?” asked Makoto- oblivious that her new appearance is something new to Akira. 

“You hair… It’s longer” said Akira. He notices that her expression has more determination and lightness to it; one that shows determination, and true resolve. Makoto didn’t realize the fact that Akira has never seen her with longer hair, and as she hears this she touches her hair.

“Oh yea! Well, it was partly because I was too busy on what I was working on. I felt so inspired after our accomplishments that other things were not as important. Plus- Ann kinda convinced me to grow my hair out.

“I did! Doesn't she look cute? But anyways- for me, I’m thinking of heading to America for my studies for my 3rd year- but haven't decided myself” said Ann as she twirls her finger in her hair, “I'm looking to join a theatre school over there while taking part in modeling and acting gigs- and would be leaving sometime close to the end of Summer. So, I will be spending my last days in Japan with you guys if I happen to take that step! I did try and let you know Akira, but my texts were not going through” said Ann.

“Again- sorry!” said Morgana.

“Hehe, it’s all good. I think your new style is nice- yours and Ryuji’s. Guess everyone has changed a bit since I last was here” said Akira as he sips coffee, “How have things been with you Haru?”

“Me? Well, I have since put the foot down on the marriage thing- as you should know, but it has since stayed that way- which I’m happy about. Since I’m no longer held down by what people want me to do I can focus on what I wanna do for myself. As such, I have ideas that are in talks. I started to take more role in my late father’s company- Okumura Food’s- by starting the process on my own cafe chain!” said Haru.

“Really? That’s very interesting. Guess Sojiro will have competition” said Akira.

“Hey!” said Sojiro.

“Instead of making some monopolized force in the industry I plan to be very ‘community’ based. I wanna bring people together through the craft! I would love to have Mr. Sojiro’s aid in that matter. I have also had the idea of a vegan food diaspora that will not only push the company further- but maybe aid in the health epidemic over in the states. Again- these are all just ideas, and nothing is set in stone. But I do want to push the company I have been given in my own unique direction. This push would be my own, and even if it loses the luster my father claimed I feel like it’s within my right to take that chance”

“Well- as a fellow coffee lover as yourself, I suppose coming to a mutual standing on the matter wouldn’t be too hard” said Sojiro as he chuckles.

“I’ve at least tried to tell her to keep Big Bang Burger around- so long as the workers are treated better. The food still kicks ass!” said Ryuji. However, Futaba hits Ryuji’s side.

“Agh, is your mind a stomach?!” said Futaba.

“You know- many say the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach. So, if there would be a theoretical stomach elsewhere within the body- I think it would make more sense to think the heart is a stomach” said Yusuke.

“Agh, unrelatable inari” said Futaba.

“ Anyways~ ... Well, it seems that we are all caught up on what each of us has been doing- or is doing for the most part. Akira- just don’t forget to give us your new number so we can re-add you to our group chat!” said Ann.

“I will,” said Akira as he smiles. He and his friends then drift off into idle chit-chat for awhile.

*****

“Would you like some more coffee Ann?” asked Akira seeing her cup is empty.

“Sure!” said Ann.

“You get that kid- I’m gonna step outside and have a smoke and let y’all have some time to yourselves” said Sojiro as he begins to walk out. He closes the door behind him, and suddenly Morgana jumps on the bar table.

“Now I can be free in my element for awhile. Well, it’s great that the Phantom Thieves can all be together once more!” said Morgana.

“Your element is… Hopping on bar tables? Which is something you do like- all the time?” asked Ryuji.

“Grr!” snarled Morgana.

“Going back to what you were saying Morgana- Yes; It’s been months since we have all been in the same room. It’s pretty nostalgic...” said Makoto.

“To be honest- while the days as thieves was cool and all- I am fine that we are done with that stuff,” said Ann.

“I mean- we kinda have to be; the Metaverse was like- destroyed!” said Futaba.

“Yes, that is correct” said Makoto

“But Morgana- why the caution? We can talk about this stuff around Mr. Sojiro now though” said Haru.

“I don’t think he feels in his element ‘cause he can talk about it. I think ‘cause the old man can’t understand him, so now he can speak to us without it being awkward” said Akira as he walks around the bar counter to get some more coffee going.

“Oh, right! I forgot that he cannot understand you Morgana” said Haru.

“Little things like that will pass on you as time erodes the memory” said Yusuke.

“Inari! You make that sound so dreary!” said Futaba. Makoto then laughs.

“I’m gonna use the restroom. Please excuse me” said Makoto as she gets up from the bar. Haru and Yusuke then follow suit.

“Akira- is it okay if we go see your room?” asked Haru.

“I am interested in how the attic has been holding up. Is it the same?” asked Yusuke.

“Definitely cleaner!” said Ryuji.

“Well, I can go up with you two- if that’s alright with you Akira” said Futaba.

“Hey- I just got here. I feel like I don’t have true say on who can and cannot go up there just yet” said Akira. Haru laughs hearing this.

“I guess I see your point” said Haru. The three of them then walk upstairs as Makoto uses the bathroom- leaving just Akira, Ryuji, Morgana, and Ann in the room. Morgana sits on the chair Makoto was just sitting in, while Ryuji gets up to stretch his legs. Akira, still pouring Ann’s coffee, looks out from the bar with a grin as he wonders what Ryuji’s up to.

“Agh! Sitting down for long periods of time sometimes makes my body feel weird. You ever get that feeling?” asks Ryuji.

“Yea. It’s not some foreign thing only for you Ryuji” said Ann. Akira laughs.

“Just don’t overexert yourself sitting” said Akira.

“ Ha-ha ” said Ryuji in a mocking tone. 

“Well besides that- there is something I think we all should meet up and talk about” said Morgana.

“Really? What is that?” askes Ann as she sets her face in between her palms- her elbows peacefully on the table.

“Well- now that we are all together, I think we should plan out public outings! Akira only has summer to make up his mind- but that doesn't mean we expected to be cooped up in his room all summer” said Morgana enthusiastically. Ann looks on smiling.

“Ahh… Well, we do hang out from time to time- but I suppose less frequent without I guess a… Reason” said Ann truthfully.

“Well- you make it sound like we only hung out ‘cause of our thief work” said Ryuji.

“I mean… The thing that brought us all together- and kept us all together- was that. And our mutual interests. Which- we cannot even do anymore due to the Metaverse not existing anymore. Not saying this in a bad way, but we just did hang out more when we had to- you know- save Japan?? I mean- you still are someone close to me Ryuji” said Ann.

“That’s not what I mean! Agh, anyways- we all gotta hang out more often anyways ‘cause you, Haru and Makoto could be going off somewhere far soon. Now throw in Akira into the mix. And I mean you to a whole other country!” said Ryuji.

“It’s not like I’ll randomly leave tomorrow- chill. And, it’s a temporary move; I’m practically based over here in Japan when it comes to a career. But, I want to branch out... For Shiho…” said Ann.

“... Is she doing good” asks Akira as he serves Ann’s coffee.

“Yea. She is fine- doing way better. We have come a long way together since then; I mean, we are dating now” said Ann.

“W-What?!” said Akira shocked. As this happens, Sojiro walks back in averting everyone’s attention.

“Where did everyone go?” asks Sojiro.

“Huh?? Uh- well, some are upstairs, others are using the restroom” said Akira- a bit taken back still by Ann's reveal.

“Well, why not join ‘em? I can take care of dishes and whatnot. The least I can do for your special occasion. Plus- keeping the place lively for the last couple hours has been a nice feeling I didn’t know I needed to re-visit” said Sojiro. Akira, looking towards Sojiro, and then to Ann, wants to go back to the point she just said- but now finds it ill-fitting.

“Awe! So you missed us all together!” said Ryuji. Sojiro then scoffs and hides his blushing.

“N-No! Just that It’s refreshing to see the sight once more. Agh, whatever- just go upstairs” said Sojiro. Makoto then comes out of the bathroom.

“... Did I miss something?” asked Makoto. Akira, looking from Makoto, to Sojiro, to Ann, then decides to just bury the bombshell Ann just said- for now.

“No. We are just being thrown outta the cafe- and up to my room. Come on, everyone else is up there anyways” said Akira.

“Oh, well okay. I did want to see the state of your room as well” said Makoto. Ann, Ryuji, Morgana, and Makoto all then head up to Akira’ room where the rest await.

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

As Akira, Morgana, Makoto, Ryuji, and Ann make their way up to Akira’s room Yusuke, Futaba, and Haru are all lounging around his room taking in all the nostalgia that it brings. Futaba, about to go back downstairs to go see Akira, then almost bumps into Akira as they collided on the stairway.

“Oof! Sorry!” said Futaba.

“It’s fine” said Akira.

“Oh, you guys are coming up. Sorry, we were all about to come back down just about now as we felt like we disappeared for too long” said Yusuke.

“No it’s fine- we all wanted to come up to talk” said Ryuji. Futaba makes her way back upstairs so Akira, Makoto, Morgana, Ryuji, and Ann can get upstairs to Akira’s room. 

“Talk? About what?” asked Haru.

“Don’t ask me- ask Morgana” said Ryuji.

“Hehe. I felt like it was only befitting to continue conversation as a reunited group back in one of out places of operation- Akira’s dusty room!” said Morgana.

“It’s not that dusty anymore” said Akira. Ann laughs.

“It’s not that bad up here actually. And I mean we also did regroup together downstairs as well” said Ann.

“Yea- but boss wanted to clean up and encouraged us to come up here, so I didn’t fight him. Also, it’s easier to talk to a cat when only the ones that can understand em are around” said Morgana.

“Right right” said Ann.

“This makes me remember when we used to meet in the passageway- remember?” said Ryuji.

“Yea- in retrospect while meeting in a public place was smart it did attract unwanted people at the time” said Morgana as he looks to Makoto.

“Hey! I apologize for my methods at the time. I just was desperate in my situation, and I wanted to confirm suspicions. Also, it wasn’t that hard to follow you all” said Makoto.

“You also didn’t make it that hard to tell you were following us,” said Ann.

“Okay- before this turns into a Makoto-slamming session, what did you wanna talk about Morgana?” asked Makoto.

“Oh yea! Well first; can we all sit around the table?” asked Morgana. Akira then grins.

“Like old times?” said Akira.

“Seeing this setup does make one reminisce on all the times we came here to enter the Metaverse” said Yusuke. The gang then proceed to sit in their desired spots.

“I feel that same way dude” said Ryuji”

“Anyways, so what are our summer plans?” asked Morgana.

“Wait- that’s what you wanted to talk about?” asked Futaba.

“Yea! I mean, we can assemble to go change a heart. But we can change our boredom. I get the vibe that the group hasn’t been as productive in hanging out recently- so let’s change that!” said Morgana.

“Sorry. I have been really busy as of late. I try as much as I can to hang with the gang, but it is difficult sometimes. In preparation I have done lost of placement tests and interviews for internships. It’s not the same, but after doing all of this I can understand but a taste of what my sis goes through on a daily” said Makoto.

“I tell Makoto it’s fine, but I do wish I could have more time before she has none. Come fall- you won’t be able to hang out much for sure” said Ann.

“Yea. I know that we can’t do much to change that, but I do wish you all would come over more to LeBlanc to see me and Sojiro more” Futaba.

“I do feel a bit of blame on this as well; I have been focusing more on my art, so I have been fairly absent as well” said Yusuke.

“Well if you were going for a meeting to make everyone feel bad- you accomplished that Morgana” said Ryuji.

“Hey! I’m just laying the issue out there. Everyone’s lives move on as they should. But the bonds you create are eternal, and very treasonable; more so than any treasure that we ever stolen! Don’t let those bonds fade!” said Morgana lecturing them.

“... You are right Mona. I can’t even begin to think about where my life would be if you all didn’t help me with my situation. I don’t want you all to think I’m neglecting you in anyway” said Haru.

“I feel the same. So, I guess that is a reason why this summer is more important than maybe I let on; this could be the last summer that any of us are together like this- this free and chainless” said Makoto.

“That thought is what drove me back to here- I felt like I might have forsaken something… What exactly I don’t know… But my confidants- I knew the bonds I made the year I was here were for sure valuable” said Akira.

“It must be a tricky situation Akira; choosing between the 16 years of your life you just gotten back, to the one year you spent with us. Surely- I don’t want you to just stay ‘cause we miss you” said Yusuke.

“Yea Akira. We will stay in each others lives- whether there is distance between us- forever. And it’s not like we have not stayed in contact through social media you know?” said Makoto.

“You are right. I’m taking it one step at a time. For now- I do think I would like to plan to hang out more while I’m here” said Akira.

“Well I’ll let you all know right now that Friday works best for me if we all wanted to go out,” said Makoto.

“I second that” said Haru.

“Me as well” said Yusuke.

“Well we can make that happen- is Friday a unanimous day for a group outing?” asked Morgana.

“I’m down” said Ryuji.

“I have gigs but they don’t rest on Friday this week- so I’m good. I fought to free up my Monday for today- so this was surely a coincedence” said Ann.

“Anyday is fine for me!” said Futaba.

“Well then it seems settled then Akira” said Morgana.

“Okay. So now what should we do? Shop? Tour? Eat?” asked Akira.

“Hm… It would be cool to do something fun…” said Ann.

“Eating out sounds nice to do. Though, we kinda just did that now” said Makoto.

“But we didn’t really eat out ” said Futaba.

“Well, who would be paying. We don’t have a Phantom Thief balance anymore either” said Ryuji.

“I can pay. It’s not that big a deal. I was given money for my travels as well from my parents” said Akira.

“We can all pitch in!” said Yusuke- not wanting Akira to only pay.

“Yea, that seems most fair” said Makoto.

“I can make arrangements to rent out Tokyo Destinyland just for us once more” said Haru as she gets out her phone, “The last time was ended on a sour note… So, perhaps we can redo that day” said Haru.

“That’s in Maihama right? I haven’t been there in awhile honestly” said Ann.

“But Haru- are you sure you want to re-visit that place?” asked Yusuke. Haru then looked down in a pained expression. Destinyland was the place where the gang all saw- live on camera- of Haru’s father dying. So, Yusuke’s questioning came from caring about Haru’s mental, and  feared that she might have PTSD about the place.

“... Honestly, I haven’t been back since then. I… I couldn’t. That- and I just didn’t have the time. A place that used to be filled to the brim of happiness- now has a blight in my mind. But, since Akira has been back- I feel that weight slowly lifting as I remind myself of the brightness that you all granted me. I honestly didn’t realize how I had forsaken that feeling for a while- possibly since Akira has left- because now when I think of that place I think of the fun again. So, I think that would be a perfect place to hang- at least for my sake” said Haru. Hearing this almost brought a tear to the other girls’ eyes.

“Haru…” said Akira.

“Wow, so. Do we all want to go to Destinyland?” asked Morgana.

“I think… It would be a good idea therapeutically” said Yusuke as he holds his hands across his chest, “ When I recall back to that time- we thought all our actions were just, and the Phan-Site was showing us an accurate representation of the populous. Our mentality and public perception was different at that moment, despite the fact that it was not a real one. Anyways- I say all that to say that it would be a full circle moment of sorts” said Yusuke.

“I’m… Not really following bro” said Ryuji.

“Basically- since that moment in Destinyland- we had been either on the defence, in hiding, or on the run within our time as thieves. Up until we took out Shido- and after, our public stance had dwindled, and our intentions were skewed. And now- we are like some myth- but with newfound resolve. I would argue at that moment we were at our peak popularity generally, but when we took out the God we had the most intense devotion following us for a finite point. So… When we return we will essentially be back in that same scenario, but with the resolve we should have had then. Also, we never really ‘celebrated’ for that moment. It was just the gratitude of finally doing what we always should have been doing” contineud Yusuke. His explanation- elaborate to the bone- confused the group.

“That was really hard to follow… But I think I understand” said Haru.

“Not me for sure” said Ryuji.

“Ditto” said Ann.

“Basically- when we were popular at that time of changing Haru’s father’s heart, we did indeed have the wrong intentions and motives with it; on top of the fact that we were targeted unknowingly. But now- with clear consciences, Japan without a corrupt ruler, and the sins of man not extorted- we will be returning to truly celebrate as having done what we should have done at that moment. Is that what you mean?” asked Akira.

“Yes” said Yusuke.

“Ahh… Well, I suppose I can see how we would be coming full circle; not really coming back to that exact moment, but more so coming back to center. I like that analogy” said Makoto.

“And I like the idea! I’m down! But Haru- is renting out the park outta the way for you? We can just go” said Futaba.

“No. It wasn’t the last time- it isn’t now. That way- it wouldn’t cost any of us really any money. It will be done as a favor. Corporate of Destinyland did contact me after my father’s passing, and tell me that I personally could come back for free as their way as a gift of sorts. I also believe they are keeping me in their good books for a tactical reason as well- but if our interests overlap I see no issue at the moment; as Okumura Foods are sold within the park, and give them lots of profit” said Haru.

“Hmm… Makes sense I suppose” said Futaba.

“Okay- so Friday. Destinyland. That’s 7/28. And Haru will have that all covered? I guess just let us know when that’s all worked out” said Morgana.

“I will! I will email them now, and tell the group when I get a response” said Haru.

“I’m fine with that idea for sure!” said Ann.

“Yup” said Yusuke.

“I think it’s a unanimous ‘yes’ if I may speak on the group’s behalf” said Akira. Futaba, Ryuji, and Makoto then nodded their heads.

“Then it’s settled. Friday, we will infiltrate the Destinyland palace!” said Morgana.

“Hey- I like the sound of that!” said Ryuji.

“Hehe, it is fitting. And ironic” said Makoto.

“Then I guess that’s how we know that it was meant to work out,” said Akira. 

“It’s cool that we actually got to sit down and plan another activity for us all to do. It really does remind me of old times!” said Haru.

“Yes it does” said Akira.

“Okay Akira- now that we got all the conversation outta the way where are the games? Let’s play!” said Futaba.

“... I took the game console with me back home, and forgot to bring it here with me” said Akira as he rubs the back of his head. Futaba then scoffs.

“What? Man- we gotta play some games!” said Ryuji.

“I did enjoy playing them with you all...” said Yusuke.

“I’m sorry. I can go down the street and see if Yumenoshima has another, but that’s all I can do” said Akira.

“Nah- it’s fine. We can another time…” said Futaba disappointed.

“We can always go to Akihabara for one” said Morgana

“Yea. We can do that another day I suppose. I don’t wanna waste more time” said Akira.

“Ryuji- give me more of that ramen you brought please” asked Futaba.

“Sure! I was feeling like a snack” said Ryuji as gets upt to go back downstairs to get his bags.

“You just ate…” said Morgana.

“And I’m still hungry!” said Ryuji in a sarcastic tone.

“I would like some too. Can I have some of yours, Ryuji?” asked Akira. Ryuji blushes.

“S-Sure… Brb” said Ryuji as he walked down stairs. The gang hung out for a bit more as they chowed down of Ryuji’s snacks, and wasted some more time aimlessly chatting.

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

“That app hasn’t popped back up on your phone at all Akira?” asked Futaba as she sits down and sets her empty ramen bowl on the table. Akira takes a moment to look down at his phone, and studies his apps- remembering the time when the app last appeared on his phone.

“Nope. Not on this one or the old one I had” said Akira.

“I just wondered. I feel like the app must have started out with you- based on assumption. I felt like- if there would be a chance of the Metaverse’s return than you would be the first one to know” said Futaba.

“Logical hypothesis” said Makoto.

“Yea, but I have have pretty much 0 contact with anything related to that. I don’t know how it could exist after we destroyed a God” said Akira.

“Yea… True. Just a thought I had” said Futaba. 

“Nonetheless- random dimensional apps not popping up on our devices is fine. It’s crazy though- the thing didn’t even take up any space!” said Ryuji.

“... You know, that’s not something I ever tried to divulge. Are you sure about that?” asked Makoto. Ryuji then takes out his phone.

“Yea! I would download music and stuff all the time, and typically I would have to manage my phone space with the games I play. But, when I checked my storage the app was apart of the list- but said 0 space was taken up by it!” said Ryuji.

“That’s actually something I looked into as well,” said Ann as she grabbed her phone, “I take loads of selfies, so I am always specifically paying attention to my photo space. I didn’t specifically go to look about that app, but I did wonder how an app- that can literally transport us into gigantic palaces- wasn’t at the top of my storage space”

“You can do modern programming and hacking to hide app space and criteria. It’s not the same logic that should be used on this, but it’s something similar” said Futaba.

“I see...” said Yusuke.

“The app didn’t give my phone a virus at least- that is what I thought,” said Makoto.

“Yea- I thought about that too! I’ve given my phone a virus before, so I didn’t want that app to fuck my shit up” said Ryuji.

“Hm… Sounds like your virus issues and your peering into phone storage often are correlated…” said Futaba.

“Oh! I feel like you were downloading other stuff onto your phone Ryuji, and that’s why you looked into your storage often- to delete things that shouldn't be there!” said Ann calling Ryuji out.

“W-What?! Wait- it’s not what you think! I don’t download that stuff! Like- clicking on music links, and ads! Or, falling into scams. Stuff like that!” said Ryuji attempting to defend himself.

“Okay- so let’s see your camera roll” said Futaba.

“N-No! It’s my phone- my privacy!” said Ryuji.

“Well, he is right. Let’s not peer” said Makoto.

“But I can show you all my camera roll- it’s just selfies and pics of clothes and pets. So- I just wonder where the resilience in showing us stems from, hehe” said Ann. Akira, next to Ryuji, starts to wonder himself.

“ I wonder if he has x-rated pics on it from online… Or, what if he has nudes? Why would he have those however… ” Akira thought.

“Agh. Who cares about Ryuji’s nudes- can we talk about something else?” said Morgana- who was tired of hearing about Ryuji’s phone.

“W-What!?” said Ryuji as he blushes heavily ”I don’t have those!... S-Stop”

“Well.. You are getting really red Ryuji… You aren’t making us convinced otherwise” said Makoto showing her skepticism. Seeing Ryuji in a tight spot, Akira then goes to act.

“I looked at his photo album earlier in the day when he showed me pics of his hair. He just takes more selfies than you think, and just doesn’t want to get embarrassed” said Akira. Ryuji then looks over to Akira.

“Huh?” said Ryuji, who was sure Akira was lying. Akira then looks over to Ryuji- giving him a look. “Oh! Yea-yea! That’s it!” continued Ryuji.

“Oh. Well, if you say so Akira. Ryuji, sorry for my meddling” said Makoto.

“Yea, my bad. I just was playing anyways!” said Ann.

“I mean, it’s not like he wouldn’t have that stuff…” said Morgana. However, Ryuji then pushes Morgana off the table. “Hey!”

“Sorry- shady cats aren’t allowed on the table!” said Ryuji. He then looks to Akira, and Akira gives him a wink- symbolizing that he has Ryuji’s back. In actuality, while Akira wondered if Ryuji had nudes- he also wasn’t that interested in peering like a pervert. Ryuji smiled as he received Akira’s expression, and then turned to look at his phone. 

Ryuji then started to think, “ He just saved my ass!… Thanks dude. And- I don’t have nudes on my phone… I am embarrassed to show them my camera roll ‘cause… It’s just pics of him… Just ones I saved over the years, or ones I found… I should deleted them so I don't have another scare like this...”. While the photos all share sentimental value to him, he was embarrassed of them all finding out that truth- and desperately wanted to keep that aspect of himself a secret. It was a weird and privacy- breaching habit Ryuji picked up; one that is soaked in dirty lust with a hint of obsession. However, unbeknownst to Ryuji, his desperation to not have anyone find out was also rooted his fear that people will soon find out that he has those feelings- not just his determination to keep his weird habit at bay from the others. Those photos served him more purpose than one would let on- on lonely nights especially, and internally Ryuji did have reservations on shedding his masculine persona just yet. Ryuji buried his phone in his pocket- along with his guilt- and looked up the group.

“Well speaking of which- I checked the time on my phone, and it’s getting late. The last train will be leaving for my part of town soon” said Ryuji.

“Oh yea! I completely lost track of time!” said Ann as she looks at her phone, “We should go”

“Yes we should. Akira has already given us all his new number, so we will keep in touch in the chat” said Makoto. Ryuji and Ann got up from their seats.

“Yes” said Akira as he nods.

“Okay! Well, I should head home myself too Akira” said Futaba.

“It was nice spending time together everyone. And seeing you Akira as well” said Yusuke.

“I will text the chat when I have the info about Destinyland as soon as I am able to” said Haru as she gets up. 

“Okay Haru” said Makoto. 

“Good meeting today gang!” said Morgana. 

“Yea it was” said Akira.

*****

The group all then walk down stairs, and see Sojiro as he finishes the last touches of cleaning up the cafe. Everyone’s belongings that were left downstairs were neatly stacked on one of the booth tables, and Sojiro stood there as he sipped a freshly brewed cup of coffee.

“Hey- where are you all about to be up to?” asked Sojiro.

“We are all heading out. Thank you for your hospitality Mr. Sojiro” said Haru.

“Ahh. Well save travels. And it was my pleasure. Just do be sure to stop by soon y’all” said Sojiro.

“We will!” said Ryuji with a smile.

“Futaba- you heading out too?” asked Sojiro.

“Yea. I’m tired from all this party prep. I’m gonna hit the hay” said Futaba.

“Okay. I’ll be home soon” said Sojiro. 

“Akira, it was nice seeing you! See you later” said Ann as she hugs Akira.

“Yea, it was nice seeing everyone” said Akira. Futaba then looks back in jealousy.

“Hey- if we are giving hugs I want one!” said Futaba.

“Come one- come all” said Akira as he chuckles. Futaba, Makoto, and Haru then go hug Akira while Yusuke and Ryuji look back- feeling nervous to move. As he hugs them Akira looks to the both of them with his arms out. “Still got room for two more” continued Akira. Yusuke then chuckles to himself.

“I am alright Akira. It was nice seeing you. I must get going. I will see you Friday, and hopefully over the weekend, See you as well Morgana and Sojiro” said Yusuke as he waves goodbye and walks out the door.

“ Over the weekend?... ” thought Ryuji.

“Yea” said Akira.

“See ‘ya kid” said Sojiro.

“Bye!” said Morgana.

“Okay Akira, I’ll probably see you tomorrow honestly if I come over to LeBlanc” said Futaba as she follows Yusuke out.

“That’s fine” said Akira.

“I have to focus on studying this week, so I will most likely see you next on Friday Akira. Boss, I hope you have a nice evening” said Makoto.

“I will!” said Sojiro.

“What Makoto said is the same with me- but ‘cause of my gigs” said Ann as she and Makoto go to walk out the door.

“Gotch’yall. I will see you all then” said Akira. 

“Come on Ryuji” said Ann.

“Oh wait! I-I kinda have to go to the bathroom ! I will meet you guys at the station!” said Ryuji.

“What? I mean- we can wait here. Actually- no. If you miss the train- that’s on you. Come on Makoto" said Ann. Makoto then shakes her head in disappointment.

“Oh, Ryuji… Bye Sojiro and Morgana as well” said Makoto. 

“Make sure he doesn’t stay in there too long, Akira- I’m gonna step outside for a smoke. I’ll see you two out” said Sojiro as he follows Ann and Makoto seeing them out.

“Sure. See you all!” said Ann. They all leave, leaving Ryuji- running to the bathroom- and Morgana. 

“I won’t be too long!” said Ryuji. As Ryuji goes to the bathroom Morgana heads back upstairs. 

“I’m gonna head upstairs myself. I kinda wanna rest my paws for a minute. I’ll see you up there” said Morgana.

“I’m probably going to go take a bath after Ryuji leaves just so you know,” said Akira.

“Oh, okay. Well- I suppose when you are ready I can accompany you- like old times!” said Morgana as he crawls up the stairs.

“Okay- if you wanna I guess” said Akira. 

*****

Some time passes as Ryuji goes to the bathroom. Through the door, Akira can hear Ryuji’s piss stream echo off the porcelain toilet inside. He can tell he is only going pee- as he seems to be standing up. “ He won’t take long at least… ” thought Akira. He hears the toilet flush, and Ryuji then washes his hands. He steps out of the bathroom with a grin.

“Hehe, sorry man. I was holding that in; I didn’t think I could make it to my house” said Ryuji.

“Did you not wanna use my bathroom?” asked Akira.

“Well- I feel like it’s an unspoken rule that men try to not use their friends’ bathrooms,” said Ryuji.

“Really?...” said Akira.

“Well I think so. Kinda like- you would rather wait and pee in your own grounds than someone else's. It’s nothing against you- just a philosophy” said Ryuji.

“Uh… If you say so” said Akira. Ryuji then approached Akira, and gets in front of him. “Hm?” questions Akira as Ryuji stops in front of him blushing.

“Actually… If I'm gonna be honest with you... I wanted to go to the bathroom now... So that it would give me a moment to be alone with you…” said Ryuji.

“What?...” said Akira confused.

“I… I wanted to hug you in private is all...” said Ryuji. Akira then blushes.

“... You went through all that just to do that?... Hehe, well I appreciate the effort” said Akira- thinking Ryuji’s actions are funny, and also quite not understandable.

“Y-Yea! I felt nervous doing it front of Yusuke, a-and the girls…” said Ryuji. Akira sighs.

“Well- you got what you wanted. Here” said Akira as he goes in to hug Ryuji. Smiling, Ryuji embraces Akira, and they hugged passionately as Ryuji spreads his hands alongside Akira’s backside. Akira rests his head on Ryujj’s shoulder.

"I'm glad I didn't miss this opportunity..." said Ryuji.

"We are buddies; I don't have an issue hugging you. We can whenever" said Akira.

"Really?..." asked Ryuji as he blushes, and looks back up to Akira.

“Yea- why not?" asked Akira as he leans back in to hug Ryuji some more, "And, you do smell nice bro” said Akira.

“Really? Hehe. I feel like you are just saying that. I feel like I smell like a sweaty dude- compared to someone like Yusuke” said Ryuji.

“Yusuke? Nah. You smell fresh. You don’t need to smell like a girl for me to think you smell nice” said Akira. Ryuji tenses up and blushes as he hugs Akira tighter

“Well- if you want me to smell like a girl… I will if you like it” said Ryuji. Akira chuckles.

“Smell like you Ryuji. I like you for you. You only smell when we work out together” said Akira.

“You like me for me?...” said Ryuji as he contemplates what he said.

“Yea. I mean- you know, I don’t want you to change for me. Just be you. That’s what I like” said Akira. Ryuji, hearing this, gets reassured about how he felt in that moment. In truth, hearing about Yusuke and Akira potentially hanging out made Ryuji a bit jealous- despite not knowing the contents of it. He then felt the urge to prove himself to Akira once more- and compared his aroma to what he deems Yusuke’s to me- girly. 

“ Come on Ryuji - pull it together. I don’t have to fall into some rut again of feeling inadequate… ” thought Ryuji. He then looked into Akira’s eyes, and senses a purity there. Ryuji then smiled. “O-Okay!” said Ryuji as he unhands Akira. “I-I gotta go. I’ll message you later”.

“Okay” said Akira. Ryuji then goes to walk out the door, but suddenly- Akira grabs Ryuji’s hand. “And I’m thinking about it- don’t worry”.

“I-I wasn’t thinking you weren't… Awe, Okay…” said Ryuji as he nervously looks to Ryuji. Akira smiles.

“Good night” said Akira.

“You too” said Ryuji. He then walks out, and Akira sighs as the door starts to close behind Ryuji. Akira briefly hears Sojiro on the other side of the door before it closes saying to Ryuji, “Oh, so you are finally done in the crapper!”

As Akira goes to walk back up the stairs to his room he starts to contemplate heavily Ryuji, and his feelings. And, how those feelings translate to his own. “ Ryuji… Does he really like me? This is still all to crazy that it came outta nowhere right now… I should really re-evaluate how I feel… Ryuji is- cute… He is probably the closest one to me here. Because of our tight bond, I feel like pursuing it… Or I should say- I COULD pursue it… But I need to make the best decision for myself… If I head back- I can’t have Ryuji tied down by me. Or, if I start dating him- and then leave- that will hurt him even more so. Though, long distance is a thing… But if I stay and he is with me… That would be fine right? I’ve honestly never dated a man before… How does that work? I just want us to stay the same- but at the same time I know that can’t be a thing. Issues like this is what is gonna be something that decides the fate of our team in some ways- kinda like that app has done for us. Agh…” thought Akira. 

This all was a lot for Akira to think about- as trying to date such a close friend- who is a friend to the group- is a big thing; it will not just affect him. Akira wants to make everyone happy, and not make a fool of anyone- including himself. For now, he chooses to take it one step at a time, and see for sure what truly is the right decision; who knows what else will come up in between now and the end of August...

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

Akira gets his bath equipment ready out of his bag, and is finally ready to take a bath at the public bathhouse down the street now that everything has calmed down down at LeBlanc. As Akira was putting his bag on he thought to bring Morgana with him, but Morgana was passed out on his bed. He decided to not wake him and headed downstairs, and as he walked downstairs he sees Sojiro once more cleaning up the last bits of the party.

“I’m heading to the bathhouse” said Akira.

“Alright. I’m about to leave. I’ll lock the shop up, so bring your keys with you” said Sojiro.

“I gotcha. I’ll see you in the morning, Sojiro” said Akira.

“Oh! I don’t think you ever gave me your number. I don’t like saving men in my phone, but you are an exception” said Sojiro. 

“Oh yea. I don’t think so. I gave it to everyone else. Here” said Akira. They then exchange contact info with each other.

“Okay. If I ever needed the shop opened up or closed by you- I’ll text you if I’m not around. Anyways, have a good night's sleep in your new home. It’s nice finally being able to go home knowing that when I come back you will be here” said Sojiro.

“Hehe, stop- you will make me blush. And alright” said Akira.

“W-Well don’t. Bye” said Sojiro as he waves Akira goodbye. Akira waves back, and heads off to the bath.

*****

Akira makes his way to the public bathhouse down the street. As he enters he is greeted by a woman at the front desk as she waves ‘hello’.

“Hello there! How may I help you today?” asked the woman receptionist.

“I’m just here to use the bath ” said Akira.

“Okay! Well I can get you right in there! Just give me a moment sir while I pull up our directory...” said the woman as she fiddles with the computer in front of her, “Okay Sir! I just feed the fee for the bath, and I can get this thing rolling!”. Nodding in agreeance, Akira goes to pay the fee for using the bath, and he is handed a locker key. “That key is for you to place your clothes inside of a locker. Your locker is number… 18. You will time bath commodities inside the locker room if you need towels and whatnot. Please do not bring any belongings into the bathroom” said the woman.

“Okay” said Akira. 

“May I have you name?” asked the woman.

“Akira Kurusu” said Akira. The woman writes down Akira’s name.

“Okay! Have a nice bath! The saunas are also in the back if you want to use those” said the woman. 

“Okay, thank you” said Akira. He takes the locker key, and heads to the male locker room. As he walks in he is immediately hit with the steamy smell of testosterone and bath oils as the scent travels from the bathroom into the locker area. Akira is hit with a bit of a nostalgia rush as he goes to locker 18, and places his belongings inside. He strips naked, and takes out his own towel from his bag and wrapped it around his waist. He then locks the rest of his belongings inside the locker and goes into the bath area where a few other elderly men are situated. 

Akira sits down in a corner where there weren't men really around in his close proximity, and lays comfortably down in the warm soothing hot waters. His glasses fog up from the steam, but he can vaguely see other men entering and exiting the bath waters as new men come in, and others leave due to becoming too pruny. 

“ Ah… This water is just the right temperature… ” thought Akira as he relaxes further in the water. Sooner than later, Akira slowly drifts to sleep…

*****

“*choke* *choke* W-Wha-!” shouted Akira as he woke himself up from almost drowning in the water. Some of the men, who were not paying much attention to the fact that Akira was asleep, suddenly get startled by his noises. “S-Sorry… I fell asleep”. Akira re-composes himself as he looks over to the clock.

“ It’s getting late… I slept for awhile… ” thought Akira. He decides to get outta the bath before he wastes too much of his night within the bath. He wraps his towel around his wet, naked body, and goes to walk to the locker room.

He stretches out his body as he goes to open his locker, but forgets that he locked it. Feeling stupid, he goes to reach for the locker key… But notices that he doesn’t have his locker key!

“Oh no…” said Akira as he starts to freak out. He couldn’t have it on him as all he is wearing is a towel, so he starts to look around the locker room floor to see if he dropped it. “No… No… It’s not here! Where could I have dropped it?” said Akira to himself. Akira then heads back into the locker room to search around where he laid to see if he dropped the key in there, but as he looked around he seem to not be able to find it.

“Excuse me… Have any of you seen a locker key laying around here?” asked Akira to the men still in the bath, however each one nods their heads ‘no’. Akira sighed, as no one seemed to know where it went; he also sees that the men  who are still in the room are different from the ones he remembers being in the room from before he fell asleep, and so it’s possible that someone did see, but had left already so he could not ask them. Akira starts to get annoyed- feeling like someone could have at least paid attention to if he had dropped it, but then Akira feels guilty and ashamed as he knows that it is no ones fault but his own. So, he walks back into the locker room and searches again.

“Still nothing… Agh…” groaned Akira. Finding the locker key was very important to Akira in this moment; not only was he stuck in a towel as all his clothing was inside- including his phone, but his house key was inside- so he can’t get inside LeBlanc! Sure- Akira could suck it up and go visit Sojiro to get back inside, but he would have to embarrass himself with having to walk all the way down the street essentially naked. Suddenly, Akira got an idea.

“W-Wait… The front lady should be able to help me!” said Akira. He then goes back to the front desk to speak to the lady.

*****

“E-Excuse me? I have an issue…” said Akira pantingly as he speaks to the front desk woman. She looks at Akira, and sighs.

“Let me guess… Your locker is jammed?” asked the woman.

“N-No… Well, I don’t think so… I lost the key you gave me, and so I cannot open my locker. My house keys are inside, so I can’t go home without opening that locker. Can you help?” asked Akira.

“Oh no. I’m sorry to hear that… What locker number did I hand you again?” asked the woman.

“Number 18” said Akira.

“Okay… Mr… Kurusu?” asked the woman.

“Yes, that’s me! Can you help?” asked Akira.

“Mr. Kurusu, while I know that I gave you that locker key- it’s company policy that I must confirm the contents of what is inside before I am allowed to let you take what is inside of it- so that you are not trying to steal contents out of someone else's locker” said the woman.

“Okay- I’ll tell you exactly what is inside!” said Akira. 

“I’ll have one of the male Janitors meet you in the lockers. Please head in, and he will be there shortly” said the woman.

“Thank you!” said Akira. Akira then goes back into the locker room, and awaits the janitor…

*****

Akira waits impatiently for the bath house janitor to head on in; he paces around- anticipating the women he can get his things, and head home. By this point, some other men were inside the locker room getting changed; some men side-eyed nakedly as Akira pays no attention to them. Suddenly the locker room door opens.

“Hello! This is the janitor. I got a call about someone in here having a locked locker?” said the Janitor.

“Y-Yes, that’s me!” Akira said as he goes to walk over to the entrance to greet the Janitor. 

“Okay… Well, this locker is old, so I’m going to have to break the lock it seems. This is not an issue, but I am going to have to get a tool that can break the locker open. However, you will need to confirm the contents of what is inside once I do” said the Janitor.

“What? So, I”m going to have to wait until I can get inside my locker?” asked Akira.

“I apologize in advance. Had you chose a more modern locker- I could of just lock picked it. These lockers tend to jam, so we have to pry them open often. But yours is just locked” said Janitor.

“There is not like a spare?” asked Akira.

“I’m afraid not; it appears that you had the spare key. I'm not sure why they would assign you this locker though… That was the fault of the person who assigned you this locker, I’m afraid” said Janitor. Akira grunts.

“Okay… I’m aware it’s out of your hands at the moment- I’ll just have to wait” said Akira.

“Let me go tell the front desk about this issue- please head with me… What is your name?” asked the Janitor.

“Akira. Akira Kurusu” said Akira. Akira then looks at the Janitor’s  name tag, and it says Neji on it.

“Ah. My name is Neji- like on my name tag. Neji Mishima" said Neji. Hearing that name, Akira gets alerted.

“M-Mishima?” asked Akira.

“Hm? Yea, that’s my family name” said Neji. 

“S-Sorry… I have a friend that has that last name…” said Akira. Akira looks at Neji harder- attempting to see if there were any similarities between him and his Mishima; they both have blueish hair- though Neji’s is a bit longer. However, in the face- they don’t look much alike' and Neji from the looks of it has to be many years older- about in his mid 30s. He has a similar haircut to Mishima- but somewhat grayed out. However, if you were just looking at their eyes, you can tell the family resemblance because they are nearly identical at second glance.

“Oh really? I have a nephew that looks around your age… You know ‘em?” asked Neji.

“Is his name Yuuki?” asked Akira.

“Ah! Yea, that’s my brother’s boy. What is the coincidence that I meet a friend of his!” said Neji. 

“Yea, we are school friends. I’ve never met any of his relatives however…” said Akira.

“Yea, most of us are kinda scattered about in many different professions, and quite busy for the most part. I tend to do janitorial work for many companies around Shibuya; it’s a laboring job position, but gets you money when you need it. I’m a labor-type of dude. But enough about me… Why, I haven’t seen that boy as of late however… I heard he’s been going through it the last couple of months...” said Neji.

“R-Really? I’ve been outta town and I’m from another town. And, I haven’t been on social media as of late... So I don’t know what is going on” said Akira- getting worried about is Confidant.

“Well, I wouldn’t know much either boy. But just look out for him why don't ya? He’s got a good head on his shoulders- just often around people that put him down” said Neji.

“I see… I will sir” said Akira.

“Well- enough chit-chat. Let’s go to the front desk” said Neji as he opens the locker room door. 

Akira walks through the opened door that Neji held open for him, and they proceed back to the front desk. As Akira walks, all he can think about is Mishima. He was another one of his Confidants that he didn’t keep in contact with, and so to hear from a family member that things were not the easiest for him when they were apart makes Akira feel a bit bad. He also has no means of getting into contact with Mishima. As they approach the front desk, he thinks to ask Neji for his number, but he feels like Neji would look at him funny if he just told him that him and his nephew were friends- but he doesn’t have his number. Akira instead chooses to bury the idea- for now, and goes to focus on his locker.

“Hey there- so I’m gonna have to get some other tools to assess this issue, so he’s just gonna have to wait for a bit; can you accommodate him? Should take me about- eh, I would say 30” asked Neji to the front desk receptionist.

“Why yes! I’m sorry for the inconvenience sir…” said the front desk woman.

“It’s no biggie… I just wanna know how long I’m gonna be in this towel… It’s pretty drafty…” said Akira.

“I’m sorry sir! We can give you a bath robe while you wait! Here one moment” said the woman as she went into a back room. Soon, she pulls out a bathrobe for Akira to wear. He puts it on and feels a bit more warm- but still a bit breezy. 

“Thank you” said Akira.

“Please, Akira- you can use any of the available facilities here free of charge while you wait for your stuff to be unlocked. Feel free to use the sauna room, or get a massage- anything!” said the woman.

“Really? Well- thank you” said Akira. Neji then laughs.

“Haha! Had I known I would've gotten this good of service for a defect locker I would've tried to get free service way more often in my younger years!” said Neji.

“Well, I’m trying to make this type of situation happen the least amount of times in my life…” said Akira as he rubs his head.

“I gotcha. Well, I guess enjoy yourself while I get this done!” said Neji as he heads off. The woman then points down the hallway opposite of the baths.

“The sauna rooms are that way- if you are interested in them,” said the woman. 

Looking down the hallway, Akira starts to think to himself, “ Well… I can use it all for free… Might as well… ”. He then turns to the woman. “Sure” said Akira.

“Good! Just head right in then!” said the woman.

“Okay then, thank you again ma’am” said Akira.

“N-No! It’s to cover up our oversight! Please, keep yourself occupied while you wait on our behalf” reinterated the woman.

“Will do” said Akira. He then heads down the hallway to the men’s sauna room...

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

“So they are down this hallway… But which door?” asked Akira as he walks along the floor- dragging his damp feet along the way. Looks left to right, he sees multiple brown doors- each giving Akira growing anxiety as he is unsure of what is on the other end of each. He opens one of the doors to his left, and peaks inside.

“Oh… Just a closet… Why is it unlocked?...” asked Akira out loud. As he looked around he sees various towels, toiletries, and cleaning utensils. “And nothing in here that looks like it would help get my locker open… Agh…”. Akira closes the door, and continues to walk down the hallway. He passes by a window, where he sees a jacuzzi with other men inside laughing up a storm. Not wanting to bother them by entering, Akira moves on to continue to find the Sauna room. He then sees another closed down door down the hall. 

As he walks closer, he sees that there is a slit in the door, and as he peers in he sees a small room with what looked like massaging materials inside.  “Huh, so do they have private massage areas here as well?... Agh- I might have to schedule one one day… Intriguing” he said as he shrugged his shoulders. As he continues to walk about he passes by other doors. soon walks by another door. This time, he notices that the door reads ‘Sauna’ on the front. However, he notices that it says ‘Female’ next to it as well. “Oh- wait… I don’t wanna walk in on any girls… Let me keep looking…”.

Continuing his search, he manages to stumble upon another door that reads ‘Sauna’ but this one does not specify gender. “Well… This must be is I guess...” said Akira. Not seeing another door that would specify a male Sauna, Akira opens the door reluctantly to the sauna room as he grabs his robe tight with one hand; oozing nervousness due to never really going into one before. As the door opened the steam from inside fogged up his glasses. 

“E-Excuse me…” Akira nervously said as he entered the room. As he enters the room, Akira attempts to make out what’s around him in the dim-lit enclosed wooden walled room. He instantly feels the heat emanating from the heating unit in the middle of the room, while his ears immediately zone into the sound of skin clapping together in a rhythmic pattern.


“Ugh! Fuck me daddy!” a male voice shouts in ecstasy. Akira then gets very alert- unsure of what is going on. Startled by this, Akira goes to defog his glasses. 

“Agh! Yea, you like my big fat cock inside that tight ass of yours?” says another male voice in a burly tone. Akira attempts to make out what is in front of him- which in actuality is one man leaned over- face down and ass up- on the wooden platform on the other side of the room as another man is doggy-style penetrates the others ass.


“Yes! Don't stop!~” said the other male.

“E-Excuse me?!” said Akira louder. 

“W-What?!” one of the men said. Suddenly, as he entered he heard weird sounds that abruptly stopped as he entered. Then, he heard the fuddling of body limbs and feet- as if someone was rushing to move around; which was the man on top unlodging his penis from the other man’s ass as the other goes to put a towel over his body. Akira finally managed to defog his glasses completely, and when he looked forward he say two men, naked, who were just having anal sex! 

“I-…” said Akira- completely flabbergasted at what he sees. Looking more intently, Akira ascertains in the moment that they had to be in their mid- 30s to early 40’s, and were two men of a similar build to Akira. 

“Oh shit!...” the guy on top says as he hides his penis with his hands.

“S-Sorry; w-we didn’t think we would get walked in on this time of the night…” said the guy on the bottom as he stood there stunned. Akira, starstruck over seeing this all go down, does not even know what to say. His glasses fog up some more as the faces of the men blur out from the steam.

“ Oh my… They were… Just having sex! They for sure were… And I just caught them! Two men having sex… Just out in the open for anyone like me to come across?! ” thought Akira in this moment.

“You aren’t one of our buddies, right? And are just playing the role?...” questioned the man on the top

“B-Buddies?... Playing a role?” Akira asked nervously.


“Yea. You will be surprised what goes on around these parts at night. And- you still are here, so I am assuming you are intrigued by what we was doin’” said the man on the bottom.

“... You wanna join us?” asked one of the men on the top. The other man that was on the bottom then starts to laugh.


“Stop it! Hehe. He’s obviously straight” said the man on the bottom. Suddenly, Akira’s face turns bright red.

“Straight?...” thought Akira.


“Are you even an adult, kid?” asked the man on the top.


“I-I’m 17, but n-no I don’t wanna join, I’m sorry” said Akira as he holds his hands above his face, “I’ll find another room to go in a-and forget what I saw! Bye!” he continues as he quickly opens the door behind him once more, and rushes out. 

*****

Rushing further down the hallway aimlessly, Akira comes to a stop from his 100 meter dash, and bends over as he attempts to catch his breath. Panting, Akira attempts to recollect his thoughts- and make sense of what he had just witnessed. “ Did I just… Witness two men having sex?... ” Akira thought as he continues to breath heavy. He then looks around him to see if anyone saw him running- and sees no one in his vicinity. He does however notice that he is next to some vending machines, and goes to stand near them as to not look more awkward.

“ Agh… That stuff is illegal!... N-Not the gay part of it- but public sex! Should I report them?... ” thought Akira some more. He then starts to sigh. “ No… If I was them- and just got caught- I would've high-tailed it outta here by now… I also didn’t really see their faces… ”. 

Akira feels a bit perplexed at this moment; seeing someone in a sexual act was not really what is perturbing him- but more so the fact that two men that have those types of feelings would be so... Free. Free of inhibition, having  openness, not being afraid that someone like Akira would be some homophobic person that would of hated on them; those are all risks you would think one would take if they decided that they were going to have sex in public- that anyone could catch them. This is at least Akira’s cognitive thoughts on it- as Akira sensed no shame coming from them besides the embarrassment that Akira had to of been the one to catch them, and they didn’t intend for someone to.

“ I would never do something like that in public… Get a room, or something! Agh… Not I have to find somewhere else to go… ” thought Akira. Suddenly, he starts to sigh. “Calm down…” he tells himself. He then looks up, and goes to walk to find somewhere else to spend his time. As Akira walks on to find another room, he starts to think more on what he has just witnessed. Specifically- he starts to think of what having sex with a man relates back to him, and why it bothers him so. In society, Akira knows that homosexuality is shunned. Many people simply have issues with the topic out of an array of ignorance, hate, power, or in Akira’s case- insecurity. Unbeknownst to Akira, he was experiencing his issues with homosexuality in the form of internalized homophobia.

This then brings Akira’s mind to think about Ryuji- and Ryuji’s admitted feelings for him. Surely, Akira did not hate- nor will ever hate Ryuji for admitting that.  But, Akira still is a bit indecisive on what those feelings mean to him; mainly because he is unsure if he not only has the capability to reciprocate them, but the balls to go against the status quo if he ever chose to go down that path. Because, internally, Akira knew that he had homosexual feelings; possibly, he always knew- and burred them in similar ways that all teenagers going against societal standards do. Even Akira’s differing reactions- to Ryuji’s admittance to his gay feelings, to the men’s exhibition of their gay behavior- stems from different feelings about Akira’s own opinions on homosexuality. Slowly, as Akira’s mind had nothing better to do, he started to place himself into their shoes.

“ If I reciprocated Ryuji’s feelings… Would I end up like them? Free in my feelings, and open as they were? Is… That such thing okay with another man?... I’ve never really thought of Ryuji in that way before... ” pondered Akira. In truth, these thoughts stem from his life growing up in Japan, and the blacklisting that is done on homosexuality. The irony in the society's thoughts on homosexuality is the coy nature men will have with other men in intimate settings- such as bath houses. Because, never is their masculinity compromised. “ Ryuji even alluded to it himself… ” he continues. He thinks back to a specific thing Ryuji said to him when he admitted his feelings.

‘I know it’s weird for me of all people to say that- and I know it’s a bit gay but… It’s just what is in my heart… What I desire’

“Hehe… You know… I asked him if he was ashamed of his feelings for me… I’m starting to question if I am ashamed…” Akira said out loud as he sighs, and starts to scratch his head. “ You know what- I’m just grazzled because I just seen someone get penetrated anally… I think I should just forget about this for know… ” he then thought. Shaking his head- as if to fling away the gay thoughts for now- Akira picks himself back up, and continues to find another place to spend his time while he waits…

*****

Several minutes pass…

Akira, in the time after the sauna fiasco, decided that it was best for him to clear his head amongst the cold air breeze of the evening weather outside. Akira stands against a wooden fence outside the main door as he holds his hands in his robe pockets near his crotch- to not let any unattended breezes hit any special places, as he wears his towel as a neck warmer. He had thought- by this point- that walking over to Sojiro and bothering him would of been less of a hassle than what had already transpired. Chuckling at his own shortcomings, Akira looks to the sky.

“So much has already happened- and I just got here!... All of this in just one day… What exactly am in store for coming back here?...” pondered Akira. Suddenly, the bathhouse door opens from the inside.

“Ah- I was told I would find you out here” said Neji as he peeks his head out.

“Oh, hey there Mr. Mishima” said Akira.

“Please, call me Neji” said Neji.


“Oh, well okay… Neji” said Akira.

“Come on in; I found what I need to bust open that old ass lock! Let’s go get your stuff” said Neji

“Really? Oh, thank god- finally. Thank you!” said an excited Akira. 

“Hopefully I didn’t keep you waiting too long” said Neji.

“It’s fine- it’s just the quicker I am in normal clothes and home the better for tonight,” said Akira.

“Understandable. Well- let’s go do that quickly” said Neji.

“Right” said Akira.

*****

They both then head back into the bathhouse, and into the male locker room to Locker number 18- where Akira’s stuff resides within. Neji, carrying a bag of tools, sets them down on the wooden bench near Akira’s locker. 

“Not everyday that I have to break open a lock; sorry that it took me awhile to find the specific tools” said Neji.

“It is fine; I’m just glad that you managed to find them,” said Akira.

“Yea- for these things, they want you to try and leave as much as you can in tact; I would rather bust this old shit completely open” said Neji as he chuckles.

“Yea- that would be the more quicker approach I would assume. But, I understand having to follow protocol” said Akira. 

“Yea. Okay- stand outta the way would ‘ya? I gotta pull out the big toys” said Neji as he reaches into his bag, and pulls out a giant pair of red pliers. Taking the pliers in both his hands, he situates part of the lock in between the mouth of the pliers. “I’m gonna rip this thing right off!”. Neji pulls up his sleeves- revealing his muscles to Akira- and gets into a crouched stance. 

“Woah…” said Akira as he looks at Neji’s arms. “ He’s ripped… ” thought Akira as he started to slightly blush. Then, Akira looked to the pliers he was holding. 

” They look kinda cool… ” Akira continued to think. Neji then starts to bite down on the lock with the pliers with immense force- causing a slight bending sound of metal to echo through the locker room. Neji clamps down harder and harder as the lock starts to warp. Suddenly, a large snapping sound is heard; loud enough that the men still in the bathroom look over with slight shock. The lock on Akira’s locker falls to the ground, and seeing that Akira starts to smile.

“Yes!” shouts Akira. 

“There ‘ya go kid! All set!” said Neji. Neji then opens the locker as Akira approaches.  Suddenly, Neji puts his hand out- stopping Akira from coming forward. “Uh-uh kid… I have to confirm the contents”. Neji then looks around the locker, and sees what is inside. Akira then sighs.

“Okay… Well, there is my brown bag, my blue pants, an eggshell white shirt, my white phone, my house keys, and my boxers…  The only thing that’s mine that isn’t in there is this towel” said Akira nervously. Neji eyes up and down the contents within the locker as he rubbed his chin. Suddenly, he turns to Akira.

“You identified everything I am seeing- so that is good enough for me. You are free to go kid” said Neji as he backs away from the locker. 

“FInally!” said Akira. He then rushes over to his locker, and instantly grabs his keys to his house. “I’m just thankful that I can get back in my house…”.

“Yea- well I am gonna talk to the guys up front and make sure we get some of these old lockers serviced. Define sorry for the inconvenience.

“It’s alright,” said Akira as he set back down his keys in his locker, and goes to grab his boxers to put on. “Well… I’m gonna change…” said Akira.

“R-Right! Well, take it easy kid. Oh- and look out for Mishima for me, remember? He’s a good kid” said Neji.

“I will. I just got back into this area today; I barely have had the chance to catch up with everyone. But, I will soon” said Akira- feeling slightly guilty for not speaking with Mishima for so long.

“Oh, you just came into town today?” asked Neji.

“Yes; I went to school for a bit here, but I left earlier this year. I am here for the summer staying at a friend’s house while I figure out life. And, in the meantime, I am catching up” said Akira.

“Hm, gotcha… Say- you makin’ money?” asked Neji. Akira then looks back over- pulled away from his want to get dressed.

“Well, I haven’t re-applied to any of the places I used to work at yet, so currently while I’m here I do not have a source of income per say. Why?” questioned Akira.

“Well- if you are ever looking to make some quick money, I can always help you out” said Neji.

“... How?...” asked Akira.

“Hehe- don’t get any funny ideas, boy; I can always use a few more hands on busy nights. If I am in the Shibuya area, and I need some help with service- you can pitch in with me and I’ll give you part of what I make that night” said Neji.

“Well, that is awfully nice of you… And convenient…” said Akira.

“Well- I only offer because when I was in a situation similar- in a new area, deciding life choices, and not really knowing where to go- I leaned on the night life and the opportunities that came to me. However, not every opportunity should be taken- take it from me… A-Anyways, I just thought I would offer since I often can use a hand or two for night shift jobs in the area; if you are in the area, then hitting you up now and then for help and a little spending money wouldn’t hurt” said Neji. Akira then starts to feel flattered- believing for a moment that perhaps meeting a relative of Mishima’s was fate.

“Well, doing odd jobs isn’t a first for me; I can take down your contact info, and if you ever need an extra hand I’ll see what I can do,” said Akira.

“Perfect! Here, this is my number” said Neji as he pulls out his phone. Akira then takes his phone, and exchanges numbers with Neji. 

Akira then starts to think, “ Exchanging numbers with Mishima’s uncle- who just helped be get my clothes out of my locked locker at a bathhouse where I just saw guys having sex… What are the odds? Well, I suppose just having the number just for the option to get some under the table money from him wouldn't hurt… ”. Akira then puts his phone away after getting Neji’s number, and turns back over to his locker. “Well, unless you wanna front row seat- I would like to have a bit of room so I can change…”.

“R-Right. Well, I will catch you later. Akira- was it?” asked Neji as he attempts to finish putting in Akira’s contact info.

“Yup. A-K-I-R-A” said Akira.

“Thanks, bud. Well, lemme get outta your hair. Chat with you later” said Neji as he waves goodbye, and leaves the locker room after grabbing his materials. AS the door closes behind him, Akira then sighs.

“Gosh… All this kinda has been just as tense as before I came here… Well, let’s get on home; I know Morgana has to be worried sick about me… Or not…” said Akira to himself. Akira then gets back on his clothes, collects all his valuables, and heads out of the locker room. Passing by the woman at the front desk once more, she motions for Akira to stop.

“Sir! Just one moment. I wanted to give you this discount card; next time you come in here, you have a free visit! This is for all the inconvenience” said the woman at the front desk.

“Oh really? That is nice. Thank you” said Akira as he grabs the card.

“It’s our pleasure! Have a nice day!” said the woman. Akira bows his head, and walks out of the bath house- and immediately heads back to LeBlanc.

*****

“Haha! All of that happened to you? Hilarious” said Morgana as he gets petted by Akira as they lay on their bed. Rolling his eyes, Akira throws Morgana off of him, and sits back on his bed.

“It is not funny, Morgana…” said Akira.

"H-Hey, haha! I'm just teasin' you!" said Morgana. Akira sighs as he lays back on his bed, and stretches out his limbs.

"Whatever..." said Akira.

“I’m sorry. But- it’s crazy that you run into one of Mishima’s relatives! Makes you wonder just what has been up with him since we left…” ponders Morgana.

“*yawn* Me too… Hopefully we can run into him; I don’t have a way to contact him since all my contacts were on the other phone” said Akira as he yawns once more.

“Sorry!” said Miorgana.

“It’s whatever at this point; I probably should have my friends’ numbers memorized by this point… Oh well- hopefully we run into him soon” said Akira.

“Yea. Well, let’s get some sleep; we gotta big day ahead of us tomorrow!” said Morgana.

“Big day? But- we have nothing planned for tomorrow…” said Akira.

“Well- we should go and get that game console so we can all play games again!” said Morgana.

“Oh- well I guess I could do that. Sure…” said Akira as he rolls over as he yawns, “Well- we will iron out the details tomorr- Zzz…” said Akira as he slowly drifts to sleep.

“Hehe, you sleepyhead. Goodnight, Akira. It’s… Kinda good to go to sleep like this again…” said Morgana as he curls up next to Akira, and falls asleep on his torso.

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

The next day…

“*yawn* Agh, I slept like a rock… Well- besides the weight on my side I kept feeling…” said Akira as he gets up from his bed. He then turns to Morgana- who is still asleep by his side. “Heh- must of slept good then- being in this new space,” he continued. Akira then gets up from his bed, and stretches out his limbs. 

“It feels really… Nostalgic to wake up in this room again” said Akira as he looks around the room; dim-lit by the morning sun that glows through his window. Akira then takes off his pajama clothes, and puts on his regular attire of blue denim jeans, a black top, and white buttoned down dress shirt. He puts on his glasses, and positions them on his face as he grabs his bag, and heads down stairs.

“Well well well, glad that you finally woke up! Thankfully, I have some espresso brewing up and I’m making some pancakes. Come have a seat and eat” said Sojiro as he makes the finishing touches on his cooking in the kitchen area. 

“Good morning, Sojiro. I will gladly do so” said Akira. Akira then sits down at the bar, and grabs an empty cup. He then pours himself a cup of coffee as he rests his shoulders on the bar. “You don’t usually make pancakes” continued Akira.

“I thought to do something a bit different since things will be changing around here” said Sojiro. Akira then chuckles.

“Like what?” asked Akira.

“Well- think of this as me buttering you up because you are gonna be pulling your weight while you are here” said Sojiro as he goes to set down a plate of freshly done pancakes alongside some syrup and utensils.

“How so?” asked Akira. Sojiro then smirks.

“Well- now that you are gonna be here for the summer I can definitely use some more hands around the place!” said Sojiro.

“Hehe. Well, I don’t mind helping around Sojiro… Are you gonna give me an allowance for helping?” asked Akira.

“Don’t push you luck, kid! You’re crashing here for free- find another job” said Sojiro. Akira then starts to laugh.

“Alright I get it- I was just kidding anyways; I wouldn’t ask you for money anyways” says Akira as he takes a fork in his hand, and begins to dig into his pancakes “These are yummy. Thank you” he continued.

“You are welcome. I was going to make some eggs with it- but I thought the effort with the pancakes and coffee was enough” said Sojiro as he reaches into his pocket, and pulls out a cigarette. “I’m gonna go outside really quickly to smoke before people start rolling in. When you are done, please clean up your plate and the rest of the pans on the stove please” Sojiro continues.

“What? I have to clean up your mess?...” questioned Akira.

“The mess that was made for you !” shouted Sojiro. AKira then started to sigh.

“I got it, I got it…” said Akira. 

He then scarfs down his remaining pancakes and then gets up to do the dishes as Sojiro takes his smoke break outside. In the meantime, Morgana- late to the party- strolls down the stairs as lets out a small cat-toned yawn.

“Mornin’. Didn’t think I would sleep in; usually I am up before you” said Morgana.

“Early bird catches the Shadow- I say” said Akira.

“Well if that’s the case then we might as well be in a coma; who knows the next time we will ever see a Shadow!” said Morgana.

“Hehe. Yea… Those times are really behind us… Kinda crazy that we back here- and we aren’t hustling around trying to come up with infiltration plans, or doing prep work for a palace raid, or getting everyone together here to travel into Mementos…” said Akira.

“I guess the familiar setting would bring up those old memories…” said Morgana.

“They don’t for you?” asked Akira.

“They do; honestly, I think I slept so well because I was sleeping not only in a familiar place- since that bed was probably the first bed I have ever slept in- but it was also because I was doing so without the intimidation of having one of my ‘nightmares’ about who I really was…” said Morgana.

“Yea… But, if it wasn’t for you- being someone that would guide me to our victory- then we would not be here in this situation right now” said Akira.

“Yea- who knows what would be up with us…” said Morgana as he hopes up on the bar counter, and watches Akira clean ”I think that is the other good thing about being back; me even being ‘alive’ is due to everyone keeping me in their minds; so, it feels right to be back with them all” continued Morgana.

“Yea… I bet that is why they all missed you as well; at one point, we all thought you were dead” said Akira. 

“I should have been if I am being honest… But- let’s not hark on that” said Morgana.

“You are right. Say, in the last few months we have been together- you feel any more like a human?” asked Akira. Morgana then blushes

“Seeing the regular life of a human through you as we resorted to doing all of the human things you used to do before all the Phantom Thief stuff has given me a better feel- that is for sure. Though, I think what has definitely complicated the process for me is that you are no regular human” said Morgana.

“Hehe, ouch!” said Akira jokinglyas he chuckled.

“I don’t mean it in a malicious way; you are a fool sometimes, so it is hard to read you or follow your reckless actions! That is why it is perfect you have me by your side” said Morgana.

“Right- you don’t mean it maliciously… Well- I like to say I am ‘unique’” said Akira.

“ Unique ’... Riiight…” said Morgana as he started to scratch his ears, “Well, for sure if I was on your side you wouldn’t of gotten stuck in that situation yesterday night!” said Morgana.

“Don’t remind me…” said Akira. Morgana then starts to chuckle

“You know- I think the most human thing I have learned observing you is how easily the heart is swayed- and how much the human body needs to pass gas!” said Morgana.

“H-Hey! I do not do that a lot!...” said Akira.

“Well, I sleep with you- I would know” said Morgana. Akira then starts to sigh.

“W-Whatever… Look, did you come here just to dog on me, cat?” asked Akira.

“I am NOT a cat!” shouts Morgana. Akira and Morgana then start to stare each other down intently- as if one was about to jump. Suddenly, they both start to laugh.

“Look- I’m gonna finish up these dishes and then we are gonna head out to buy another gaming console to play games with Futaba, Yusuke, and Ryuji on. Sound good?” asked Akira.

“Fine by me; ‘bout time I get to explore around the area!” said Morgana. 

“From the perfect view of my bag at least… L-Look, Sojiro is about to come back in- get down!” shouts Akira as he pushes Morgana off the bar counter.

“Mreow!!!” shouts Morgana as he falls. Sojiro, opening the door, sees Akira push Morgana- and is mortified.

“H-Hey! What are you doing to the cat!?” asked Sojiro as he closes the door behind him, “What has gotten into you that you are now harming animals?”.

“What? He was on the bar counter- I took him off” said Akira.

“Oh my little Morgana? Did the mean ‘ol Akira harm you?~” asked Sojiro as he hurried over to Morgana on the floor.

“W-What? I’m fine… You are so gonna get it later- woah!” said Morgana as he is picked up by Sojiro. “H-Hey! I don’t need to be carried!”.

“I think he likes that” said Akira.

“What he will like is for you to stop blabbering and finish cleaning! Come- Morgana; you want some milk?” asked Sojiro as he goes over to the fridge.

“I do not need to be pampered like this by another man! However-... I wouldn’t mind some milk…” said Morgana as he gave into Sojiro’s bait.... Akira then goes back to cleaning the dishes while Morgana is fed by Sojiro. And not before long, half an hour passed as Akira finishes up what he is doing, and gets ready to head out the door to do a bit of shopping. With his wallet in hand- filled with the bit of money his parents gave him to fend for himself while he stays out here, he begins his hunt for some games!

Akira then starts off his video game console hunt by hitting up the second-hand shop Yumenoshima to see if he can find himself a system. However, much to his unluck, Akira is unable to procure another gaming console at the shop, and they do not have anything close to what he is looking for at the shop. With no other idea in mind than to check the stores in Akihabara Akira loads up Morgana into his bag as he gets on the train on the Ginza Line into the heart of Shibuya.

*****

In Shibuya…

Akira and Morgana get off the train coming from Yongen-Jaya, and walk up the train platform to the Underground Walkway above. There, they ended up deciding to walk around the Shibuya area as they await the next train to arrive. Just his luck, the train that would lead him to Akihabara is delayed; as such, Akira has some time to kill. Recalling his previous conversations with Neji and Sojiro about money, Akira takes it upon himself to attempt to see if he can re-apply to some of the places that he used to work at- especially since buying this console will put a dampening on his savings. However, the question is where to go first…

“Well, if I decided to work again it would need to just be part-time, and a job that I can kinda be either on-call for or just work here or there... I probably should start with where I enjoyed being the most, but I am not sure where I enjoyed working the most…” said Akira.

“Do you remember all the places that you used to work?” asked Morgana.

“Uh… Well not all of them” said Akira- unsure. Morgana then scoffs.

“Aren’t young adults your age supposed to compile resumé’s and whatnot- things that can help you not only keep track of what you've done, but also look presentable to new employers?” asked Morgana.

“Yea… But that wasn’t something that I was focusing on when I was more worried about finishing my 2nd Year while moving… Sorry for not focusing on it” said Akira.

“Okay… Well, let’s start by recalling where you worked before. Think…” said Morgana. 

“Well I know that I worked at the 777; it's the convenience store downtown. And, i worked at the beef bowl shop. But, where else again?...” said Akira as he started to think of the places he has worked in the past. Akira, unsure of exactly where, then heads over to a rack of magazines near him.”I know I can find the place in here…”. As he sifts through the pages, he suddenly finds one of the job ads that he replied to all those months ago.

“I worked… Oh! I worked at ‘ Rafflesia ’, the flower shop sometimes; that’s in the Underground Mall area… Though, I kinda just did that one to conveniently get intel…” said Akira.

“Okay… Well, your availability is pretty open because you have no school- or extra curricular activity as of right now- so any job could work… I guess- unless you want to apply to all of them and make it work- you could go with what was more convenient or paid the best?” suggested Morgana.

“Well if that was the case- then out of the three, Ore no Beko paid me the most when I would work for the day. However… As I look in this ad I still would only be able to work the shift at night” said Akira.

“Well- it’s not like you have anything better to do; does it matter?” asked Morgana.

“N-No... “ said Akira as he started to look through the magazine some more. Suddenly, he get another idea. “Or… Technically, of all the jobs I have every took on- if I were aiming for a night job specifically that I can leisurely work at, then I should try to reapply to the Crossroads”.

“Agh! So you can just get hit on by random women and clean up after drunkards?...” asked Morgana.

“It was not always bad… Only thing is I would be going out to Shinjuku every time for work- which isn’t a deal breaker since it wasn’t then, but often times I found that when I needed money I would rather just go to a place I often frequent like someplace around Shibuya” said Akira.

“Well, you could apply to some place around here, and then the next time we are in Shinjuku we can also see if the bar owner needs some help…” said Morgana.

“Oh yea- what was their name… Lala Escargot ?... I just hope they don’t intend one m dressing up still” said Akira.

“Well, we can deal with that later. Come on- why not call one of the places on the ad, and apply already?” asked Morgana. 

“Yea, I can. I think… For now I am just gonna apply to places I can work at night since usually I am fairly busy during the day” said Akira.

“So, call the beef bowl shop?” asked Morgana.

“Yup,” said Akira as he gets out his phone, and dials the number on the ad for the beef bowl shop…

******

After re-applying for the job- and getting a very warm welcome by the owner over the phone as they recognized Akira’s voice, they managed to pass enough time until their train to Akihabara was ready to leave. Akira and Morgana then hop on the train that will take them straight to Akihabara Station. Along the way, Akira manages to find a seat to sit down on while riding the train. However, as the train bumps along the train tracks, Akira starts to get bored. 

“Gosh… I probably should have gotten a book when I was at the bookstore yesterday…” whispered Akira. Suddenly, Morgana pops out of Akira’s bag.

“Agh! This is why you need me with you! You know that you can use precious time in between trips to getting your daily reading in! Don’t think that just because it’s summer vacation that I’m gonna let you fall behind on your studies!” said Morgana.

“I know- and I have never slacked on my studies in the first place… Agh, hush up for a while; people are staring…” said Akira as he then clamps down on the opening of his bag to quiet down Morgana’s overbearing mutters towards his lackluster decision making- without causing him to suffocate of course. Nonetheless, they ride out the train ride as Akira waits patiently for the ride to be over, and soon enough Akira and Morgana arrive safely at Akihabara Station- with just a bit of a delay...

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

Akira makes their way out of the station, and heads out into the city area of Akihabara. Walking out of the station area, Akira takes a right into the main street of Akihabara. There, he takes in the metropolitan aroma of all the stores around them. As he starts to feel a giant rush of nostalgia hit him. He stuffs Morgana further into his brown bag to not attract attention, and heads out into the crowd of people. He looks over to his left, and sees the Merchandise Store- where tourists would often populate to get memorabilia. Next door to the Merchandise Store is the Electronics Superstore; the exact place that Akira was looking for.

“There, remember? We got the game console here” said Akira.

“Vaguely… Half the time I am out here I am stuffed into the convinces of your bag so I can’t see anything!” said Morgana.

“Because I’m walking around with a cat in my bag; you know how weird that is?” asked Akira.

“What? Some women do that same thing as well!” said Morgana.

“Yea, but that is a bit different than me… And, pets are not allowed on trains- so I couldn’t take you anywhere” said Akira.

“Oh… I forgot about that…” said Morgana. Akira then starts to laugh.

“Anyways- hush up while I go buy this stuff,” said Akira as he goes to approach the store. 

“Hello, sir!” said the Electronics Superstore clerk as he waves at Akira. Akira then waves back.

“Hello there” said Akira.

“How may I help you?” asked the clerk.

“Hello. I would like to buy a game console; I don’t need anything crazy- perhaps something that is used. The more retro the better” said Akira.

“Oh, okay! Let me see what I have in the back for you- give me one moment” said the clerk. He then disappears in between the masses of boxes of electronics for a moment before he pulls out a game console box.

“Here you go there! Does this unit satisfy your needs?” asked the clerk.

“Yea; that one is perfectly fine. How much is it?” asked Akira.

“7800 yen” said the clerk. Suddenly, Akira started to rub his chin

“ Hm… I think that is what I spent when I bought the retro one all that time ago... DO I really want to buy the same thing twice now that I’m thinking about it?... Agh… ” thought Akira. The clerk then sets it down on the counter next to him.

“So, do you want it?” asked the clerk. Akira then feels on his wallet as he has last minute second guessing of buying the console just now. However, as he contemplates the decision he suddenly realizes that it ultimately would not matter when he buys it. Akira then sighs as he accepts his fate.

“Sure…” said Akira reluctantly.

“Splendid! I will ring this up for you!” said the clerk.

“There we go! Mission complete!” says Morgana from within Akira’s bag.

“Huh? Did you just hear a cat?” asked the clerk.

“N-No, I don’t think so,” said Akira as he hit the side of his bag.

“Ow!...” said Morgana.

“Okay, sir… Well, let’s finish up this transaction and you can be on your way with a brand new- used gaming console!” said the clerk. Akira then laughs nervously. 

“R-Right…” said Akira as he forks over the money to pay for it…

*****

“Well, I hope that the gang appreciates me re-buying something that I technically already own…” said Akira as he carries his gaming console in a plastic bag.

“I’m sure they will be using it a lot since it is their vacation!” said Morgana.

“Heh, well we will see…” said Akira.

“So, is there somewhere else you wanted to go? That’s kinda the only reason we came out here…” questioned Morgana.

“Yea… No, there isn’t anything else I really need. But, we might as well look around while we wait for the next train to take us back home arrives” said Akira.

“True true… Wanna go hit up the Arcade?” asked Morgana.

“Oh yea! Haven’t been there in awhile. Sure, let’s go- it is just up the street from here” said Akira. 

“You lead the way” said Morgana.

Akira then continues to head down the main street of Akihabara as the sight sees the other buildings and things along the way. As he turns to the right to look at the venders on that side of the street he sees the rows of Capsule Machines. A bit curious to try them out, he heads over.

“Oh, you seriously are not about to spend money on this scam of a service…” said Morgana.

“... But, what if I get something good this time?...” questioned Akira. Morgana then sighs.

“Agh, whatever!...” said Morgana- not agreeing to Akira’s decision. He then walks up to one of the Capsule Machines, and then takes out his wallet to insert some money. As he cracks the machine the capsules inside start to move around, and as one drops out of the machine Akira picks it up. As he goes to see what it is inside he starts to chuckle.

“I got a figurine; hehe” said Akira.

“Great! Now that you have wasted more of your money- what else should we mindlessly spend?” asked Morgana.

“Buy a nuzzle for you” said Akira.

“Hey!” said Morgana. Akira then stuff his figurine into his bag, and continues to walk.

As Akira walks on he passes by more familiar spots alongside the Akihabara Main Street; the Maid Cafe, the Otaku Goods Store, and the Machines Good Store. And, across the street from the Machine Good Store was the Arcade, Gigolo in the area. Akira walks in, and instantly he smells the overwhelming aroma of testosterone and sweat as he sees many teen boys try their hardest to beat the arcade games with their friends. Crowds of onlookers pack the place as well as they watch high-skill players play their games. Akira turns the corner to where he remembers the ‘Gun About’ game being set up. He sees two people playing at the current moment; one of them couldn’t look any more familiar to Akira. Suddenly, the game round ends, and the crowd cheers.

“The King won for the 10th time in a row! Can anyone here beat him?” said one random guy in the crowd. 

“That round was so crazy! You could really feel how intense they were both trying to beat the other” said another random guy. Suddenly, the losing kid started to sigh.

“Dang… I was close to winning!” said the kid. Suddenly, as he twists his cap around so that his ‘GET SMOKED’ logo shows in the front, and pats the other kids back.

“You definitely have gotten better at keeping up when you are under pressure! Reaction time and knowing when and where enemies will pop up can help you get over the edge. You really have to study the game, and I can see that you have been doing that” said Shinya Oda.

“Thanks! You have improved too! How so I can’t even fathom! I’ll play you again another bad- I have to get going” said the kid as he high-fives Shinya. 

“See ‘ya” said Shinya. He then turns around to the crowd, “I have a bit more games left in me for today; anyone else wanna pla-” he said before he cut himself off as he turned to see Akira standing there looking at him. Akira then waves to him.

“Hey there” said Akira. Shinya then drops his gun on the floor, and runs over.

“A-Akira!” shouted Akira as he goes over to him. “W-What are you doing here?!” he asked.

“I’m back for the summer. I came to the area to buy a game console- and I thought to stop by. Fancy seeing you here, huh?” said Akira as he held up his fist to Shinya- motioning for a fist bump. Shinya then started to smile, and connected his fist with Akira’s .

“Yea, it is! I… I honestly never thought that I would see you again… You know… After the whole…” said Shinya as he looks down as he recalls the Phantom Thieves last mission.

“Yea… That was initially the plan in I’m being honest… Before all of that- my life was nothing like it was; I was just a regular school student who got caught up in a mess way bigger than I was. And, it was because of the bonds I created I even climbed my way out. And, I was to return to that life prior. But… I was drawn back because I started to basically question if what I was leaving behind was more valuable than what I had back home” said Akira.

“Y-You are not from around here?” asked Shinya.

“No. I’m not far from here, but not from this area- no. So, before you meet me- or anyone here- I had a whole different life, and other types of people in my life. Surely a life where I had no need to learn how to shoot a gun from a kid younger than me” said Akira.

“I see…” said Shinya.

“The ‘stuff’ I was doing? You know?... That stuff will never happen again. But… The bonds I created along the way are ones I don’t want to be lost in time. So basically… I’m here to determine what I should do before I head back to school; stay here, or go back” said Akira.

“That is a lot that you have to think about… So, does that basically mean you missed me?” asked Shinya.

“Of course I missed you; I missed everyone. You were one of the most beneficial people in helping me prepare for our heists- uh…” said Akira as he looks around and realizes he is in public, “You know… B-Basically, you will never not be bonded to me because my skills are a byproduct of your teaching”. Suddenly, Shinya starts to blush.

“R-Really?... I didn’t realize I was that essential to you… Well, I missed you too, bro” said Shinya.

“Hehe. Me too” said Akira.

“Hey- if you have some time, you wanna play a round?” asked Shinya.

“Sure thing. I might be a little rusty- so go easy” said Akira.

“I don’t go easy on anyone- you should know that! And with my training you can never go rusty; it is ingrained in you!” said Shinya as he starts to smirk and chuckle.

“Well I guess we'll see right now!” said Akira as he walks up to the Gun About game.

“T-That kid is gonna challenge The King” said one lady in the crowd.

“Is that kid even good?” asked another person in the crowd.

“The stakes are high; don’t fall completely on your face, Akira” said Shinya as he faces the game screen.

“Let’s see if your smack talk matches your skill” said Akira as he holds both in his hands.

“Oh! It’s on!” said Shinya as he starts a new round in the game, and Akira and Shinya duke it out as the crowd cheers…

*****

“Wow… I can not believe that kid got so close to beating The King! He was one point higher!” said one man in the crowd.

“*Pant* Pant* Wow…” said Shinya as he tries to catch his breath.

“I didn’t think you had it in you, Akira…” said Morgana as he watches sneakily from Akira’s set down bag.

“I was so close!...” said Akira as he wipes away some sweat, and turns to Shinya. “You did good as ever, Shinya”.

“GG, Akira. You had me under pressure- and at one point I thought it was it for me, hehe” said Shinya as he goes to fist bump Akira once more. “Honestly- after that game I am pooped! I think I am done for the day” said Shinya as he goes to sit down on the ground.

“I can see” said Akira.

“Hey- we totally gotta link up again now that you are back in town. Can I have your number, bro? The one I had before doesn’t work” asked Shinya.

“Broke the phone. And yea- if it is alright for me to have your number. Will your mom freak on me again?” asked Akira as he chuckles.

“Nah- she is way more chill now; now that she isn’t hell bent on me being perfect all the time, she doesn't see my friends or my extra curricular activities as hindrances. And, since I am not wrapped up in winning my grades have improved because I am all around happier!” said Shinya.

“I see. So, you are given the freedom you deserve, and you are no longer chained down my expectations” suggested Akira.

“Yeah- something like that” said Shinya.

“They do say that expectations are premeditated resentments. So, I am glad that you are in a better place” said Akira as he brings out his phone. “Here, put your number in”.

“Sure!” said Shinya as he puts in his contact info into Akira’s phone, and hands it back. “Make sure you text me so I have your number!” said Shinya.

“I’ll do it right now” said Akira as he sends a brief text to Shinya. Suddenly, Shinya’s phone gets a notification sound, and Shinya goes to check what it says. The text read,

“ Hey :P ” - Shinya

It was the text from Akira that Shinya wanted, and a  he reads it his face started to light up. “Hehe, you are silly bro. I’ll save the number asap” said Shinya as he saves Akira’s number into his phone. “Okay bro- I am gonna hit it. While my mom doesn’t mind that much I hang at the Arcade over the summer I do have a family arrangement to attend. So, I hope you have a nice day!” said Shinya as he picks up his bag on the floor, and starts to head out.

“See ‘ya soon, bro” said Akira as he waves back and watches Shinya leave the Arcade…

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

With the game console still in hand, Akira makes their way back to LeBlanc to go set up in their room. It is now close to late afternoon- with the sun slowly beginning its descent in the sky. As Akira walks up the narrow street to LeBlanc they see Sojiro outside tending to a sign out front.

“Hey there,” said Akira.

“Hey, you are back. How was the trip?” asked Sojiro.

“Eventful. How was your day so far?” asked Akira.

“Fine, I have just been tidying up and putting out some new coffee flavors I have on stock on display for advertisement. Gotta run a business at the end of the day” said Sojiro.

“Hehe, you are such an entrepreneur Sojiro,” said Akira.

“Is anyone over?” asked Akira.

“Futaba stopped by earlier to see what you were up to, but left once she realized you were not here. Sheesh!” said Sojiro as he rolled his eyes.

“Hehe, well hopefully you aren’t getting jealous” said Akira.

“Oh yea, I’m so jealous of you. Want me to show you how jealous I am with my foot up your ass?” asked Sojiro.

“N-No, I’m fine on that. I’ll go in…” said Akira as he walks inside of LeBlanc. 

*****

Akira then goes up to his room, and sets down his bag as Morgana runs out and sits on Akira's desk chair. Then, Akira unloads the game console that he bought, takes off his shoes and jacket, and goes to set it next to his desk. 

“Here we go!” said Akira.

“Ok, so you now have the game console- hook it up!” shouts Morgana.

“Well, I wanna wait until the gang is over to play it” said Akira.

“But you have to make sure that it works!” says Morgana.

“Hehe, I think that you just want to play games,” said Akira.

“After spending hours stuffed in your bag perhaps I might just wanna relax and play a game” said Morgana.

“Uh well, I don’t think that your paws are made for this controller” said Akira.

“Are you implying humans with temporary cat-like bodies can’t play games?!” asked Akira.

“U-Uh… No…” said Akira.

“So put it in!” shouts Morgana.

“Okay okay, hold on” said Akira. He then goes to set up the game console to the TV monitor in his room, and turns it to the appropriate channel to play games off of.

“Luckily, inside the box that the game console comes with there are a couple games…” said Akira as he sifts through some of the retro games that he has, “There is ‘Punch Ouch’, ‘Train of Life’, ‘Power Intuition’…” he continues as he reads of the selections.

“No ‘Stat Forneus’?” asks Morgana.

“Uh… Not that I am seeing buddy, no. Sorry” said Akira.

“Awe! Well we definitely need to go out there and buy it” said Morgana.

“Yea, I will check out the game store another time and see what I can find” said Akira.

“Well, let’s play some ‘Punch Ouch’!” said Morgana.

“Okay. It’s a bit fast paced the last time that I remember playing, so don’t start whining when I cream you” said AKira.

“ Please . Hand me the controller” said Morgana.

Akira and Morgana then start to play some ‘Punch Ouch’ together. An intense battle of ‘who-can-get-the-highest-score’ ensues with the two of them as both of their hidden competitive natures arise. The commission that they are making is enough to alert Sojiro, who starts to walk up the stairs.

“Hey, I understand that you are back here and you are getting accustomed to things- but could you keep it down a bit? You might scare away customers!” said Sojiro.

“H-Huh? Oh, I am sorry. I will keep it down, Sojiro” said Akira.

“And what are you doing up there? Sounds like you are playing a game with another person with the way you are talking… Is Ryuji or someone up there and I didn’t see them come in? Or is that one of those games I heard you can play online?...” questions Sojiro. Akira then looks over to Morgana with slight confusion as they worry that Sojiro might catch Morgana playing games. Then the both of them chuckle slightly.

“Uh, no- I guess I was just-... Um… Playing loudly. I’ll keep it down” said Akira. Sojiro then sighs.

“What am I gonna do with you… Hehe…” said Sojiro as he walked back down stairs.

*****

“Okay, this has been fun, but I think that I am going to take a little nap” said Morgana as they go over to find a place to relax on Akira’s bed.

“Hehe, yea- a break would be nice. Didn’t expect you to be so good at these!” said Akira. Morgana then chuckles.

“You learn to pick up some interesting tricks when you are as good as me! Haha” said Morgana.

“Gotcha buddy. Well I’ll pack up the game for now. I think I am going to go back out” said Akira.

“Huh? Where are you going “ asked Morgana.

“Well, after sitting in front of this TV for so long I think that I need to rest my eyes and get some fresh air. Plus, it has given me the idea to look for another laptop” said Akira.

“A laptop? For what? You wanna look up lewd material?’” Morgana questioned.

“W-What?! N-No! I would be able to do a lot of online shopping and whatnot. Plus, if I ever wanted to jumpstart the transfer process- if I decide to stay in Tokyo. It is just smart, because I can only do so much on this phone here” said Akira.

“Hm… Well, that makes sense… In that case, why didn’t you just bring a laptop here?” asked Morgana.

“I wasn’t thinking that far ahead… Hehe” said Akira as he rubs the back of his head and chuckles, “Plus, once I got home I didn’t really use it that much. I didn’t really use it that often when I used to live with Sojiro either. But, now that I have other things to worry about other than Phantom Thieves work it would be useful to have right now” Akira continues.

“Right, I would agree on that. But, where would you find a laptop?” asked Morgana

“Hm… That is a good question…” said Akira. He then ponders his thoughts for a bit as he thinks of how to go about this situation. “... Well, the second-hand shop Yumenoshima is where I found the initial laptop- though, it was not in a workable state to use then. Remember, I had to go all the way back to Akihabara afterwards to get the kit to fix it?” questioned Akira.

“Oh yea; wasn’t that around last year in August?” asked Morgana.

“Uh, I think so… A-Anyways, I hope that I don’t have to do all of that because I just came from there” said Akira.

“Well, I guess there is only one way to find out. Move your ass! Maybe while you are gone I can sleep in quietness~” says Morgana as they start to stretch their limbs on Akira’s bed, “Mrrreowww~...” Morgana moans.

“Hehe, well okay then I will. Hopefully you sleep well, Morgana. I won’t be long, but you might be asleep by time I get back so I wanted to say it now” said Akira.

“Yea, I get it. You are still here… Why?” asked Morgana.

“Snooty. You definitely need sleep. See ‘ya” said Akira as he puts back on his shoes and jacket, and goes to head down the stairs as he grabs his bag to carry the laptop in.

“Don’t forget your wallet!” shouts Morgana.

“Hehe, I got it right here; don’t worry; take you cat nap” said Akira as he pulled out his wallet from his back pocket.

“Hey! I take perfectly human naps! Grr” said Morgana. 

“Okay okay. Bye” said Akira as he walked down stairs...

*****

“Where are you off to now?” asked Sojiro as he leaned over one of the tablets as he cleans it with a cloth. 

“Who me?” asked Akira, as he points to himself jokingly as he walks past Sojiro.

“No the paint on the wall. Yes, you” said Sojiro as he scoffs.

“I’m gonna go out and try and find a laptop; ‘ya know, for school stuff” said Akira.

“Don’t you already have a laptop?” asked Sojiro.

“I just went over this with Morgana- I left it back at home” said Akira.

“You… What?” asked Sojiro as he looked over to Akira as puzzled as ever.

“I- uh… N-Nothing” said Akira as he got real red in the face.  “ Fu-Fuck! I messed up!... ” Akira thinks.

“What, you out here talking to animals?... Should I go call that doctor lady down the street? You are not hallucinating or anything are you? Did you try some random drug on the street?!” questions Sojiro, as he gets unrealistically concerned.

“Calm down. You are way ahead of yourself. I was… Joking… Yeah” said Akira as he nods unconvincingly.

“R-Right… Anyways, where are you going to go to get such a thing?” asked Sojiro.

“The store down the street,” said Akira.

“Oh! Okay, well, I just about finished up shop around here, and I am about to get my stuff together and leave myself. So, lock the door behind you okay?” asked Sojiro.

“I will. See ‘ya” said Akira. Sojiro waves goodbye, and walks out of LeBlanc. 

As the door closes behind Sojiro, Akira then sighs and looks over to the TV; which still is on the news channel. Forgetting to turn it off, Akira initially goes over to finish the job. However, as he gets close he sees that there is a news headline reading ‘ Yongen-Jaya theft! ’ below the new anchors, which slightly concerns Akira. The TV is on too low of a volume for Akira, and so as he gets closer to the TV to hear the conversation he also turns up the volume.

“... Reports say that a young man flashed a knife toward the unsuspecting man talking to his dog outside. Thankfully the victim was not hurt, but their personal belongings were stolen. We have been in contact with the police to zero in on who could have been behind this crime. Folks are advised to express caution when walking in the alleyways of Yongen-Jaya for the time being, and to report anything out of the ordinary to the authorities” said the new anchor. Akira then sighs.

“Hm… I guess I better watch my back when I go out. I hope Sojiro stays safe… Eh, he is only down the street- so he should be fine…” said Akira. As they continue their conversation, Akira starts to ponder more into the matter himself. “ I guess, despite the Phantom Thieves doing what they could to lessen the crimes happening, we cannot stop them all. A petty larceny case? Hm… Well, I guess the thieves are not that different in a sense… ” thinks Akira. Then, Akira shakes his head, and  turns off the TV. 

“If I worry about every bad guy that might sneak up behind me on the street I will never sleep quietly. Not like I can do anything about it now… Let me go buy this laptop now and stop wasting time” Akira says to himself. 

*****

“Hello, there!” said the owner of the second-hand shop as Akira walked into the store.

“Hey,” said Akira.

“How can I help you?” asked the owner.

“I’m lookin’ for a laptop. Got anything for me?” asked Akira.

“A laptop? Hm… ‘Ya know I might have one. Give me a minute…” said the owner as he goes to the back of the store, and fumbles around with a bunch of items. Akira hears lots of things fall over and jiggle about as the owner looks. 

“I-It’s fine if you can’t find it. I don’t need it that bad” said Akira.

“Nonsense youngin!” said the owner as he pulled out a laptop.

”Here we go! I knew I saw one around here a bit ago” said the owner.

“Alright!” said Akira. The owner then blows some dust off the top of the laptop.

“It’s a bit dusty since it’s been in here for awhile. I forgot who brought it in exactly, but he sure needed the cash ‘cause it wasn’t in the best shape” said the owner.

“One man’s trash is another man’s treasure,” said Akira.

“Haha! Well, if it interests you, then I don’t mind selling it to you” said the owner.

“Is it broke?” asked Akira.

“Eh, not really. It does work, so that’s something!” said the owner.

“I see… Eh, not many options I have at this hour. How much is it?” asked Akira.

“Well, considering that this laptop isn’t the best , but I did fix it myself, I’ll sell you it for… 10,000 yen” said the owner.

“Hm… Well, I guess with labor costs that’s fine. Sure” said Akira as he pulls out his wallet, and goes to pay for the laptop. “ Guess I should thank Morgana for inspiring me to get jobs to save money up to pay for another phone… Though, I guess most of the money I currently have came from my parents... ” Akira then thinks.

“Great! Come over to the register and I will ring you out!” said the owner.

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

After the transaction, Akira stuffs the laptop in his bag and heads back home to LeBlanc. Locking the door behind him, he heads back upstairs to his room to see Morgana fast asleep on his bed. Not wanting to disturb them, he quietly changes into his sleep attire, puts away his things, and goes to take the laptop out. Holding it in his hands, he first notices its weight. Secondly, he notices that there seems to be a word carved into the side in Japanese. 

“Ka-... Kashikoi ?” questions Akira as he reads off what the words say phonetically. “Hm… That means ‘wise’, right?... What on earth would this be carved into a laptop?” he continued. Suddenly, he hears Morgana purr in the background.

“Mreow~...” Morgana moans, and they turn in their sleep. Akira then covers his mouth as he looks over.

“ I probably was too loud… ” Akira thinks. He then sighs, and looks back over to the laptop. “ Well, it isn’t really much of my concern; since it wasn’t originally mine, and it was clearly used. I wonder who used to own it though… ” he continues to think. 

Akira then opens the laptop, and goes to sign in. He notices at the login screen that there isn’t any sign in the user listed, so he assumes that whoever used this last must have wiped their presence clean off. He creates a new user, and shrugs his shoulders; ridding any thought of him finding out who owned it last. Soon, he finally finds himself at the normal desktop of the laptop; with many of the standard applications you would normally see lined up in front of him. With the laptop in front of them, Akira now has boundless opportunities in front of him. But, he is a bit at a loss as to what to do first. Tackling the biggest hurdle first, he fills in all of the information he needs into the computer to assign all administrative permission to him as the main user, and edits the preferences to his liking. Now, when he opens the menu the laptop says, ‘ Welcome, Akira Kurusu ’. 

“Okay, now that I got all the tedious stuff out of the way… Oh! You know what, I should probably find out how much storage this stuff has” said Akira as he clicks around the system settings. As he gets into the storage of the laptop he zones in on the total storage space, as well as the free space. “Hm… So, there are a total of 500 gigs, but… Why is the free space showing that there are at least 50 gigs taken already?...” Akira questions as he scratches his head. He then clicks on the storage bar to show more detailed info on what is taking up what space.

“Okay… Well, there seems to be stuff taken up in every field here. But… W-Why is there so much space taken up by video? Is there stuff left on this laptop from the original user then?...” questions Akira, as his quandaries about finding out who the original owner is resurges in his mind. Curious about the contents of what is taking up space he goes into the video section to see what is up. As he opens up the video tab he sees a bunch of folders; each with random names as if they were all meticulously named and had meaning to someone else. Many of the folders seemed to be empty, however Akira could tell some where not. And so, as he clicked around the folders he started to uncover more on what was taking up space.

“Hm… This one seems to be random clips. Hm… I feel kinda evasive watching this person's videos; what if they were private?... B-But, if they are that important, why didn’t they wipe it? I mean… Why didn’t the old man at the store wipe it when he got it? Though, he did say it was broken when he got it, so maybe both parties would have issues clearing all of this information out- or didn’t care. Hm… But, I might know who owned this then…” said Akira. Giving into his temptation, Akira clicks into one of the files and zeros in on one of the videos. However, the video that he attempted to click on would not play, stating that it was corrupted of some sort.

“What? Hm, I wonder if this thing isn’t updated. Or, maybe after it broke it got totally fucked. Let me try another” said Akira as he attempted to open up another video next to it. “Same thing. Damn…” Akira continues. Akira then goes into another file, chucking that all the videos in that file must not work properly. He clicks on a video that has a thumbnail of a pomeranian dog. He clicks it, and it starts to play.

“Hey, it works!” said Akira, getting a bit excited. “Awe. This is a cute dog. Hopefully the owner of this laptop saved this video to an external hard drive before selling it, because I would hate to lose videos like this” he continues. He turns up the volume on the laptop a bit to see if he can recognize any voices, since the shot seems to be only of the dog. Akira hears laughter, but the quality is so bad that he couldn’t even begin to identify the voice. 

“Well… If this works, then there has to be some that do” said Akira. And so, he ventures through many videos to try and find one where he sees any human that would look like the owner of the laptop. After viewing many low-quality videos of pets, random shots of public events, and recordings of music concerts. However, even though some videos showed people, Akira could not definitively say who owned the laptop. 

“Agh, I am at my wits end on trying to find this out. I mean- not like it really matters… Maybe if I check the photos I might find something… Wait…” said Akira, as he zeros in on a specific folder in the bunch. “This folder says… ‘ Sukebe ’... Oh, doesn't that mean ‘lewd’?...” question Akira. Peaking his interest, Akira goes to click on the folder. However, he is halted by the folder being encrypted.

“W-What? Come on… What software is on this thing to encrypt a basic folder?...” questioned Akira. He sees that he has to enter a password to go further, but it forces him to use alphabetical characters instead of Japanese characters. Akira gets immediately stumped. “English? Was the person who made this American or something? I mean, you can tell; these words were clearly translated through some online application. Or, they suck at Japanese. Agh, I was not the one that set the password, nor do I know who owned this. What could possibly be the password?...” Akira asks himself. As he ponders briefly what it could be he suddenly remembered something.

“... Kashikoi maybe?…” Akira says. Taking any idea he can come up with, he puts that word into the password box, and it works! “Yes!” Akira shouts. 

“Mrrreow…” groans Morgana.

“Oh, shit!... Gotta be quiet…” Akira whispers. Bypassing the encryption, Akira now finds himself in the blocked off folder. And, what he sees on the other side is quite alarming.

“Oh… My…” said Akira as his jaw drops. Scattered across his laptop screen is about 3 dozen videos of thumbnails and text that suggest that they are all pornographic material! Akira immediately looks behind him to Morgana to see if he just so happened to be looking at the screen at that moment. Shutting the laptop slightly, Akira starts to blush.

“This has to be what I think it is. There is no denying it. W-Why is there… P-Porn on this laptop? And a lot of it?!...” Akira questions. He then pulls back up the storage tab. “Now I see why this is so damn big. This person has like-... whole 30 minute videos download in here. And, a bunch of ‘em to boot” said Akira. Akira then grunts to himself.

“ Should I… Delete them? Or… ” Akira thinks as he scrolls through the list. Suddenly, one of the titles peaks his interest. “...‘ Happy Ending Massage Time ’?...” Akira says as he reads the title out loud, which makes him feel kinda dirty. Suddenly, Akira starts to feel weird as thoughts that he had suppressed for quite some time resurface; thoughts of desire, and sexual validation. Akira, feeling all those feelings at the moment, then looks down to his lap, and starts to blush even harder. Akira then looks back up to the laptop screen.

“... I mean, these are all mine- technically… So, I should see for myself if I want to keep them or not, right?...” says Akira to himself, as he tries to convince himself by watching the videos. Giving into temptation, Akira clicks on the video. Suddenly, he sees a bathhouse low-quality, and a massage bed. Suddenly, a man walks into frame alongside another man.

“Uh…” said Akira as he watched on. He watches as one of the men-presumed to be the masseuse- preps the other man for what would be a massage. He feels upon his neck, shoulders, back, and legs; all in a provocative manner. “ I read online of stories of guys getting massaged by other men, and it goes left… Is… Is the guy getting the massage straight? Cause, I feel like that is a bit sensual how he is letting him touch him… ” Akira thinks. After assessing him, the male masseuse instructs the man to decloth, and rest on the massage bed as he leaves the room. The man undresses; all while in perfect view of a camera that reveals every detail of the situation. The man undresses down to his birthday suit, takes nothing but a white towel to cover his bits, and lays down on the table- face down. The masseuse comes back in, oils up his palms, and begins to rub on the man laying down. As Akira watches this, he starts to contemplate to himself many things; “ Why am I still watching this? ”, “ What kind of person would save this video to their laptop? ”, and most importantly, “ Why do I not feel like turning this off? ...”. 

Surely since his last encounter with his friends, Akira has grown exponentially. That fact is the most clear in his behavior, and his point of view in the world. And subconsciously, as if it was a change of fate, Akira slowly started to develop feelings; ones he had not noticed before. As these feelings start to surge throughout his body, he starts to feel a bit hot, sweaty, and aroused watching the warm oil get kneaded throughout the man’s bare back. Gently and slowly, he works his hands downwards; just barely missing the towel that hides the man’s ass.  He then works his thighs, pushing his fingertips into the outlining areas of his muscles. Then, he gets his feet, making sure that every toe is properly worked on. Suddenly, the masseuse spreads the man’s legs far apart, revealing just a glimpse of the tip of the man’s penis laying down. As Akira sees this, he starts to get more blushed in the face, and more aroused.

“ W-What is going on?... ” Akira thinks in this moment. As the Masseuse works his palms back up the man’s legs he starts to rub very closely to the area under the man’s ass.

“... You don’t mind if I move the towel? I just don’t want to get too much oil on it” the masseuse says in the video. As he hears this Akira thinks, “ Well, that is alame excuse to ask to move the towel… Though, porn usually is tacky like that… ”. 

“Sure, I don’t mind” the man laying down says. The masseuse then takes off the towel, which reveals the man’s ass to Akira. The man then starts to rub on his ass; slowly inching his finger tips closer to the line off his ass. 

“Hehe, do you usually massage that area?” the man laying down asks.

“Yes. You need to make sure every part of the body is attended to. You don’t wanna go home and twist anything” said the masseuse. 

“Whatever you say. You are the masseuse. Just never had one massage like you before” the man laying down says. Hearing this, Akira then thinks, “ Yeah, ‘cause he is probably trying to fuck you… ”. Going forward, the masseuse starts to massage his ass, and most notably, the man laying down starts to ease more into it. He likes it, and as Akira leans more into the laptop screen he starts to bite his lip watching as the man’s ass bends and curves as the masseuse’s hands massage it. Suddenly, the masseuse’s hands get lower, almost touching the man’s cock. His hands go upwards towards the man’s ass, and back down; each time getting more touchy-feely on the man’s cock. Each time he does so, Akira can tell that the cock is getting more aroused. 

“Mmm~...” Akira moans. Suddenly, Akira catches himself, and pauses the video. “... What am I… What am I doing right now?” Akira asked. Akira then looks down towards his lap once more. “ I’m… Getting hard… ” Akira thinks. Adjusting himself in his pants, he then looks back up to the laptop. “ I… Like this? I mean, at my age most things could turn me on… Hm… I mean, I never had a problem with gay stuff really in the past… Well, besides then I was heckled by those flamboyant men with Ryuji… Ryuji… Does he watch stuff like this and feel this way too? Oh yea, he said he liked me…  I… I never really thought about what I am going to do about that… I mean- Do I want to do something about that?... ” Akira continues to think. Akira then shakes his head.

“Why am I thinking of that now?...” he questions to himself. Signing, Akira hesitatingly presses play on the video, continuing it; as if watching the video was now a distraction to his current feelings and problems he had to soon face. He continues to watch the masseuse massage on the man’s ass and cock; slowly working his hands around his buttcheeks, and revealing the man’s pink asshole. Soon after, the man on the table was practically getting jerked off as the masseuse’s oily hands woke the man’s cock up to the point it was rock hard. Then he stopped, and went up to his back; massaging towards his arms. Then, his neck. Suddenly, he backed away.

“Okay, why don’t you turn around now” the masseuse suggested. 

“ Oh no… Here we go… ” Akira thought. The man then turned around, fully revealing his cock, which had become semi-hard by this point. The masseuse then masages like he was before; hitting his chest, and working his way down. As the masseuse meets the man’s cock, which lays across his belly, he coincidentally massages around it, as if he was baiting and teasing Akira; making him wait until he finally grabbed ahold of it. The masseuse would take his hands, and work down the leg, and up; each upward stroke he would ‘accidentally’ touch the man’s cock- waking it up more and more as he did so. Suddenly, as the masseuse’s hands strike up the man's balls, he grabs his cock with both hands. The man laying down doesn’t even react, just silently moans as the masseuse starts to slowly jerk him off. Instinctively, Akira starts to rub on his hard boner.

“Mmm~...” Akira groans once more. The masseuse adds more oil, and jerks quicker and tighter as the man laying down starts to breath heavy. The masseuse rubs on his balls, and at that same moment, Akira rubs on his own cock.

“Oh fuck...” both the man laying down and Akira say at the same time, which almost freaks Akira out. Akira starts to slowly match the rhythm that the masseuse is jerking the man off; as if Akira was imagining himself laying down on that table. “Oh~...” Akira mutters out his mouth as he starts to rub himself more rapidly. At this point, Akira is past the point of no return. He thinks to himself, “ C-Can’t stop now, or selse I-I’ll get blue balls… F-Fuck!... ”. 

Suddenly, the man laying down groans loud, and says “Fuck, I’m going to cum!...”. Hearing those words lets off something in Akira, as if that man was speaking for him as well. “Agh!!!” the man shouts as he climaxes over the masseuse's hands.

“Ugh!~... R-Ryuji...” Akira moans as he lets out his own, ejaculating. Soon, Akira’s boxers and pants were sullied by his cum, leaving a giant stain on his clothes. Coming down from his afterglow, Akira heavily pants. Suddenly, he hears Morgana groan behind him.

“S-Shit!...” Akira says as he closes the laptop immediately and turns his head.

“...W-What’s going on?... I heard you shout, and you woke me up…” mumbles a half-sleep Morgana.

“N-Nothing, I just was-... Um… I-I remembered that I left the stove on downstairs! I need to go downstairs to turn it off!” says AKira as he rushes out of his chair- hiding his crotch from Morgana’s view, and runs downstairs.

“W-What? Agh, sounds like something you would do…” says Morgana as he lays his head back down, and attempts to go back to sleep….

*****

Akira hurries into the bathroom downstairs, and turns on the faucet as he eyes himself in the mirror. He sees himself for what he is in that moment; horny, perturbed, and a wet mess.

“Shit… I normally anticipate me cumming, and get a tissue… I jizzed all over myself!...” says Akira. He attempts to wipe as much of it away as possible, and takes off his pants and boxers. “Morgana is going to wonder why I randomly need to change my clothes. Agh, I’ll say I spilled coffee on myself or something…” said Akira as he continues to clean his clothes. Suddenly, his eyes open up wide; as if he just remembered something so shocking it paralyzed him. 

“Ugh… When jizzed… I said Ryuji’s name…” Akira mutters to himself...

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

"Ugh..." Akira muttered in his sleep.

*****

The Next Day...

“Mornin’!” says Sojiro as Akira walks downstairs the next day. Smelling the aroma of cocoa beans in the air, Akira looks over to see Sojiro brewing up a fresh batch of coffee. 

“... Good Morning…” said Akira, who looks extremely groggy.

“Hm? You wake up on the wrong side of the bed? You look like you didn’t sleep at all” said Sojiro.

“Uh… You can say that, I suppose… Sorry” said Akira.

“No worries. Here, let me whip you up something and hopefully that might help” said Sojiro.

“... Thank you, I would like that” said Akira as he sat at the bar. Sojiro sets Akira down a cup of coffee as he goes to make some food, and Akira goes to drink it.

“Ah~... Nice” said Akira as he took a gulp. Sojiro gets out some pots and pans, and goes into the fridge to get some other ingredients.

“How does french toast sound?” asked Sojiro.

“It would sound perfect once they are in my belly. Thank you” said Akira, as he attempts to crack a joke.

“Haha. Tell anything funnier and I might slip something poisonous into the batter” said Sojiro.

“H-Hey! Hehe, poison is such an archaic way of taking down your foes” said Akira.

“Are you callin’ me old?” asked Sojiro as he looked over with a snarl.

“N-No sir!” said Akira. Sojiro then starts to chuckle.

“I’m just pulling your leg. Just sit tight; I’m makin’ them now” said Sojiro as he turns back over to cook. As he does this Akira then sets his elbows on the table, and starts to ponder his thoughts.

“ Agh… All I could think about all night was.... All that happened. I mean, it is not like I have never watched anything like that before, but… Why did I react like that? Why did I say that?... ” Akira thinks. He then looks over to the bathroom. “ My sullied clothes are in the hamper; I have to go get them washed in a bit as well ” he continues to think. 

“You want eggs or sausage with them? I’m feelin kinda hearty today” asked Sojiro.

“U-Uh, sure. Scrambled, please” said Akira.

“On it. Hehe, you should be lucky; don’t always salve over a stove for another man” said Sojiro as he chuckles.

“Another man…” mumbled Akira as he looked down

“Hm? You say something?” asked Sojiro.

“No…” said Akira. Akira then turns his view back over to the bathroom, and looks to the stairs. “Morgana is still asleep,” Akira continued.

“Oh yeah? Wake ‘em up in a bit and see if he is hungry!” said Sojiro.

“I will,” said Akira. Akira then thinks, “ He slept through all of that… Thank god… I think, before he wakes up, I should wipe that laptop. I… I don’t need that stuff there, and whatever was the previous owners had on this laptop isn’t mine at all. Plus, it isn’t like I cannot just go online and see all of that kinda stuff myself without it clogging up my storage ” Akira continues to think. Soon, Sojiro sets down a plate of french toast, sausage, and eggs for Akira. 

“Dig in,” said Sojiro.

“Thank you,” said Akira. Akira momentarily puts his troubles to rest as he eats the meal Sojiro prepared…

*****

“Okay, so now that I am done with breakfast… Let’s get this show on the road” said Akira as he heads back upstairs. As he reaches the attic, he notices that Morgana is still fast asleep. Taking advantage of that moment, he goes back over to the laptop sitting on his desk. He goes to open it, and sees that the video he had up the night prior was still on the screen at the end of the video. Akira then starts to think, “ Hm… Did the video keep playing after I closed the application? I wasn’t finished with it… N-Not that I wanted to be though!... Normally, when you do that, all operations are halted as it is put to sleep. I guess... that since the laptop is so rinky-dink it malfunctioned. Thankfully, it still didn’t play out loud after I closed it… ”.

Akira then closes the video, goes into the system settings, and directs himself to the storage once more. He scrolls to find the menu for formatting the laptop. In truth, Akira at this moment secretly wants to keep the data; still curious as to who was the original owner. However, the temptation, guilt, and stress knowing what might lurk inside is getting to him. But what Akira is doing he feels is for the best. And so, as he clicks to format the laptop, he seals any further information he could possibly get from the laptop; only taking away from it the mysterious name ‘ Kashikoi’ , and the previous owner's sexual fetishes…

“Phew… Well, that’s over with. No use fretting over it now. But, now that I got that out of the way I can focus on cleaning my clothes… Speaking of, let’s put on some outdoor clothes” said Akira as he gets up from the chair as he leaves the laptop open while it formats. Akira then goes to change his clothes to something to wear outside. As he finishes changing, he goes back downstairs to assess his clothes he left down stairs. Suddenly, he feels his phone vibrate in his pocket.

“Hm? A text?...” said Akira as he pulled out his phone. “ You know, now that I think about it- they all heckled me for my number, but none of them have really texted me like that. I mean, everyone is pretty busy doing their own thing. Or, they don’t want to rush me all at once when we are all going to see eachother soon… Whatever... ” Akira thinks. As he goes to see the message preview he sees that it is from Yusuke.

“ Good Morning, Akira. Are you there?” - Yusuke

As Akira read the text, he started to chuckle.

“ Yea, I just woke up not too long ago. What’s up? ” - Akira

“ I wanted to relay to you that the date for my showcase has been finalized with the gallery executive. You wanted me to remind you. ” - Yusuke

Reading his response, Akira gets a bit surprised. “Oh yes, he did. I almost forgot… Well, that is pretty awesome” Akira says out loud. Akira then texts Yusuke back.

“ Yes, I remember our conversation in Yoyogi Park. That is great. When is it? ” - Akira

“ It will happen this Saturday . So, 7/29. There will be a venue over the weekend showcasing up-and-coming artists’ work, and I fortunately am picked to be one of them. ” - Yusuke

“ I’m really glad to hear that you got that opportunity, Yusuke ” - Akira

“ Thank you. Will you be free to go? ” - Yusuke.

Reading this, Akira starts to ponder the question Yusuke asks him. “... Hm… Well, I don’t have anything else planned for-... All of summer. So, why not?” Akira asks himself as he reads Yusuke’s last text. Akira then responds.

“ I’ll make time. When is it on Saturday? ” - Akira

“ The gallery opens up at 6pm that day. I need to have everything ready before people show up, so I will be there beforehand all set and ready. ” - Yusuke

“ I see. Well, I can make sure I am there for it ” - Akira

“ Thank you. I would greatly appreciate it. ” - Yusuke

“ And where is it? ” - Akira.

“ Oh, right. You would need to know that” - Yusuke

“One moment ” - Yusuke.

Akira reads the two texts, and shrugs as he waits for a response. In the meantime, Akira goes downstairs towards the bathroom where his pile of dirty clothes resides. As he goes back downstairs, he sees Sojiro cleaning up the remnants of Akira breakfast, as well as tending to the orders of some of the customers that have since walked in to LeBlanc. Attempting to not make himself noticeable he slips over to where his clothes are, and grabs the basket they are in. At that moment, his phone vibrates in his pocket once more. Akira then pulls back out his phone to see the notification.

“* Yusuke sent a photo* ” - Yusuke

As Akira saw this displayed on his screen, he wondered exactly what Yusuke could have sent him. As he opens up the notification he sees that Yusuke sent a screenshot of the gps location of where the gallery was. Suddenly, another text came through.

“ That is where it is. The address as well as the surrounding locations for identification are displayed in the photo. Is the location familiar to you? ” - Yusuke.

“ Yes, it is. Thx. I’ll make sure to remember the location. ” - Akira

“ You are welcome, Akira. Well, I need to do some preparations for the event; meetings and such. I will message you later. ” - Yusuke

“ Okay, bud. See you Friday. ” - Akira

“ Yes! See you then. ” - Yusuke

Akira then goes back into the main tab of his messages, and sees some of his recent texts; Ryuji, Ann, Sojiro, as well as various texts from relatives seeing how his trip has been thus far. Akira smirks slightly as he scrolls through them. Suddenly, he remembers.

“Oh yea!” said Akira as he went into Ryuji’s messages. Akira then reads Ryuji’s last text from last night.

“ Right on man! Hey, tell me how the game console plays! ‘Cause when I get over there we are gonna wear that sucker out! ” - Ryuji

“Ah man, I forgot to tell Ryuji about the game console after I set it up. I got so sidetracked with Morgana and the laptop that I… Agh, whatever. I hope he does not think that I left him hanging…” Akira says as he shakes his head in slight guilt. Akira then composes a text to Ryuji.

“ Hey. Sorry about last night, I forgot to tell you about the game console after I was playing it. I guess you could say I got sidetracked by all the electronics. It plays alright, and I have a bunch of games for it. You wanna come swing by and play some today? ” - Akira.

Akira then continues to procure his clothes. After a brief pause, he receives a reply from Ryuji.

“ No worries! I got tied up in something last night myself. Great that the game console is working; I can't wait to play some of that shit with you! However, today isn’t gonna work for me bud. While I would really wanna come kick it with you, I got… Prior engagements. Sorry, but we can TOTALLY another time! ” - Ryuji

“Hm? Well, that is a bit odd… I wonder what Ryuji has to do… Oh well” said Akira as he read the text.

“Hey, if you are going to talk to yourself- could you do it away from the customers?!” asked Sojiro as he grunted at Akira.

“O-Oh! Sorry, Sojiro…” said Akira as he blushes. He walks away from the counter with his basket of clothes, and heads towards the door. “I’m gonna go to a quick load of laundry. Brb” Akira continued towards Sojiro.

“Oh? Well, okay. Kinda early for that…” said Sojiro.

“I got all the time in the world, Sojiro. See ‘ya” said Akira as he walked out the door. Akira then set down the load of clothes on the floor, and wiped off just a tiny bead of sweat from his brow. Akira then pulls back out his phone to finish texting Ryuji.

“ Okay, that is fine. Hopefully your day goes well. I’ll talk to you later because I have to go do laundry ” - Akira

“ Okay, bro. I… Can’t wait to spend some quality time with you though... ” - Ryuji.

Seeing this causes Akira to blush, as well as get a bit nervous. “ He… Must really want to see me… Tsk, all that stuff with last night has me feeling funny... ” Akira thinks, as he starts to get a bit blushed in the face. Attempting to play it a bit coyly, Akira then texts back.

“ In time ” - Akira

“ Right. Okay, later bud ” - Ryuji

“ Later ” - Akira

“Eh, no use worrying about it now. Time to go to the Laundromat…” said Akira, as he lugs himself forward to get the task done...

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

Akira then ventures down the street towards the Laundromat in Yongen-Jaya, which is right next to the bathhouse that he journeyed to days prior. He walks into the laundry room, and ses no one there. But, Akira can tell that many washers and dryers are currently in use by other people as loads of clothes spin within them. Walking around, Akira goes to find an empty washer, and sets his clothes nearby. Opening the washer he fits his dirty clothes inside, and puts in some detergent. And, as Akira closes the door he eyes the settings; finding the right one for him. Akira then pulls out his wallet.

“Let’s see… This thing costs 200 yen, right? I just need to speed wash a small load, so not like I need them in there forever. Though regardless, I’m gonna have to wait for them because I don’t trust my clothes to be unattended here unfortunately; especially since I have been away for so long, and don’t know the regulars…” said Akira out loud to himself. He then pulls out the right amount of money, and goes to pay for his wash. “There we go. Now, I just gotta-... Sit and wait… Agh, this would not be happening if I didn’t do all of that last night… Oh well…” Akira continues as he beats himself up. As the washer starts up, Akira goes to sit down on a nearby bench, and pulls out his phone to play some app games as he attempts to pass time…

*****

Thirty mins later…

*DING *

Akira hears a beeping sound flare off from the washer; signifying that it is at the end of its cycle. Hearing this, Akira somewhat wakes up from his drowsy state and stretches out his limbs. 

“Phew! I was about to fall asleep... “ said Akira as he got up to take his clothes out of the dryer. As he pulls out his damp sleeping pants, he goes to smell them. Akira, in doing so, starts to feel slight relief. “Better than it reeking of teenage angst and-… Ugh…” Akira continued as he gathered up the rest of his clothes as he tried to erase the memory of last night from his mind. He then puts the rest of his clothes in the dryer, and goes to run it.

“This is a nice start to my day… I mean, not like I had much planned… Ryuji and Yusuke are busy… Maybe I should see what one of the girls are up to?...” Akira suggests to himself as he goes to sit back down on the bench to wait longer…

*****

Forty-Five Minutes later…

*DING*

“Zzz…” Akira groaned as he was sound asleep in a sit-up position on the bench; unaware that the dryer had stopped. Suddenly, Akira faintly hears a call in the distance.

“Hey…” Akira hears, but is too tired to respond.

“Mmm…” Akira mumbled back.

“You awake?...” the voice asks, but still no real response from Akira. The person then shakes on Akira’s shoulder attempting to wake them.

“Mmmm!...” Akira grumbles as he shakes his shoulder away. 

“WAKE UP!!!” the voice shouts.

“Ah!” shouts Akira as he jerks up from his sleeping position. As he turns over to see who was yelling at him he sees Futaba with an annoyed look upon her face.

“Gosh! If I didn’t know any better I would have thought waking you up was harder than raiding a palace!...” says Futaba.

“W-What-... I’m sorry… What… Are you doing here?...” asked Akira.

“I went over to Leblanc to see what you were up to, but Sojiro said that you had come here” said Futaba.

“I see… Well, now you know” said Akira.

“You gotta be careful; if I was someone mean and nasty, I would have looted you like in a game!” said Futaba.

“Y-Yea, thank you for not doing that… Agh” said Akira as he stretches out his limbs, and goes to get his clothes out of the dryer. “Thankfully, I fell asleep on the dryer cycle, and my clothes are done”.

“You are washing clothes pretty early; don’t you usually do that towards the evening?” asked Futaba.

“Hmm… Studying my patterns, are we?” asked Akira, making Futaba blush.

“N-No! Shut it!” said Futaba as she balls up her fists and stomps her right foot on the ground, “W-We would always infiltrate palaces in the daytime, so when else could you?...”.

“Haha. Looks like you got my schedule down pat ‘cause I forgot all about that” said Akira as he chuckles. Futaba then scoffs.

“Agh! You know, I could have just let you sleep and get robbed!...” said Futaba as she walks out of the laundromat in a fit.

“H-Hey! Don’t speak such things into existence; what if I actually get robbed?” questioned Akira as he quickly gathers up his things, and heads out.

“Whatever, Akira!...” said Futaba.

“Uh… S-So, How has your day been?” said Akira as he hurried to her side.

“Kinda just started. I was up all night working on schematics for this new program; it’s kinda like a summer project that I will present the Computer Club with when I return back to school” said Futaba.

“Oh, that is kinda cool; don’t think you have mentioned that to me before, that you are a part of that club” said Akira.

“Really? Not when we all hung out?” asked Futaba, as she attempted to remember.

“I don’t think so,” said Akira.

“Oh… Well, after you had left, I was finishing my 2nd year at Shujin and got involved in some extracurricular activities. Mainly, to entice myself to be ‘social’ as well as put my talents to good use. I started to get involved with the Computer Club that is there; well, me alongside Mishima” said Futaba. Suddenly, Akira stopped in his tracks.

“Mishima…” said Akira, as he started to ponder his thoughts.

“Hm?” said Futaba as she turned over.

“I… I just realized that I have been here for awhile, and I have not been in contact with him. I think that I assumed I would run into him before the party and just see him like the rest of you guys” said Akira.

“You have not talked to him? You got his number still, right? Oh wait…” said Futaba, before she remembered the reason why Akira didn’t have any of their numbers. “N-Nevermind” she continued.

“I should probably call him… Right?” asked Akira.

“Why are you asking me? He was your trusty confidant. Though, without him and his antics, a lot of our Phantom work would not have run as smoothly, so maybe you should” said Futaba.

“At the same time, without that Phantom Thief Aficionado Website, we would not have gotten exploited as much as we do” said Akira.

“Hey, I mean you are not wrong- but I still think you should call him” said Futaba.

“Okay. Give me the number, please?” Akira asks.

“Oh- I don’t have it! Ugh! Why would I be texting him ?!” questioned Futaba as her face turned out of disgust. 

“I- uh… I don’t know… I just assumed that if you both were in the same club, you might have a form of contact between you guys” said Akira.

“No. Just-... No. More like I am taking steps to make sure I have no form of contact with him for that exact reason. He is like a leech” said Futaba, which makes Akira chuckle.

“I can sympathize. But, he is a good kid. But, I suppose I will wind up speaking to him eventually…” said Akira as he sighs.

“Well no use worrying about all of that now. Come, I’ll help you carry some of your clothes” said Futaba.

“N-No, that is fine. Just having someone to talk to while we walk is alright” said Akira.

“O-Oh…” said Futaba as she blushes. “Well, I need something to drink! Let’s hurry up!”.

“Hehe, alright. I need to take my clothes upstairs when we get there” said Akira.

“Okay!” said Futaba.

*****

Futaba and Akira then arrive outside Leblanc, and walk inside. Instantly, the two are hit with the sweet aroma of brewing coffee, and the chatter of individuals who are dining inside. Futaba sits at the bar counter as she waves for Sojiro, and at the same time Akira goes to take his clothes upstairs to his room. Suddenly, Akira hears a loud groaning cat.

“There you are!” said Morgana as he leaps off Akira’s bed, “I thought you kicked the bucket or something! Where have you been?” Morgana continues.

“Sorry, I went to clean clothes. Didn’t know that I had to alert my cat where I was going” said Akira.

“I am NOT a cat!” said Morgana as he started to nibble on Akira’s leg.

“Ow! Hehe, stop!” said Akira as he jerks backwards. However, he accidentally slips on the floor, and drops the basket with all of his clothes. “A-Ah!” he then shouts as he trips and falls.

“Ha! That’s what you get!” said Morgana as he laughs at Akira. Hitting the floor, Akira starts to rub his butt.

“Ouch… That wasn’t nice” said Akira.

“Oh can it!” said Morgana as he scoffs. Suddenly, Morgana notices the clothes sprawled out throughout the floor. “Hey… Isn’t this the clothes you were wearing last night? Why did you need to wash them so urgently?” Morgana asks.

“U-Uh… Does it matter?” Akira asks.

“Well, no. But, it is weird to just wash those clothes. What did you do?” Morgana further questions.

“I just wanted to wash them. I mean- you are supposed to wash your clothes often, and not sleep in the same clothes if you have not washed them already, right? I-I just wanted to wear them again; you know, conserve” said Akira, as he pulls this story right out of his ass.

“R-Right… Well, if I wanted a tall tale I would have read a book instead” said Morgana as he rolls his eyes.

“Tsk. Whatever” said Akira as he gets up, and recollects his clothing to go put it away. “Futaba is downstairs. Why not go say hi?” Akira suggests.

“Oh, really? Yeah, I am going to do that; at least they don’t go and leave me to go off to who-knows-where” said Morgana as he pouts and walks away.

“Hey, don’t be like that! I went literally down the street! Agh…” said Akira as he gave up as Morgana headed down the stairs. Akira then sighs, and goes to sit down on their bed. Suddenly, they start to rub their head and they kneel over.

“... Don’t know why my head is starting to throb right now…” said Akira as he starts to massage the back of his neck; relieving the tension on his back shoulders, “Perhaps I just have had so much on my mind, that I didn’t stop and realize. I am also feeling a bit sleepy. But, I slept for like- over an hour already though… Maybe another nap wouldn’t hurt…” Akira continued. As he contemplates what to do next. He then eyes the clock on his phone, and sees that it isn’t even the Afternoon yet. 

“I’ll just rest for a couple minutes…” said Akira as he lays down, and quickly heads to sleep…

One Hour Later

*Bzzz *

“Mrrmm…” groaned a sleepy Akira.

* Bzzz * * Bzzz *

“... No, I’m good on a refill of coffee, Sojiro…” Akira said in his sleep. Then, Akira snores really loudly, waking him up. “Ah!”. Akira then jerks up off the bed, and looks around his room. 

“...Wow, I was out like a light. How long did I sleep?...” he questioned to himself as he looks down at his phone to check the time. The first thing he sees is the amount of time he actually was asleep for; which was longer than he intended. But, the next thing that alerts him is getting a series of texts from a number he doesn’t recognize. 

“Huh? Who could this be? A scam perhaps?...” Akira questions as he goes to look at the messages. He goes to look at the first message from the line of messages, and instantly gets shocked.

“ Hey, this is Yuuki Mishima . Got your new number from Ryuji ” - +X-(XXX)-XXX-XXXX

“Mishima! What a coincidence… And, from Ryuji?...” Akira says out loud as he starts to question the way he got his number. He then goes to read the next text.

“ You are in town? I didn’t know you were ever coming back! ” - +X-(XXX)-XXX-XXXX

“ Please message me back, so we can hang out. ” - +X-(XXX)-XXX-XXXX

“Well, okay… Mishima must have found out that I am back from hanging out with Ryuji, but… Why from Ryuji of all people? I mean, I guess it would make sense for them to hang out more after I left; we did often hang out together… I wanted to meet back up with him on my own terms. But- I also had no way of contacting him, so... Eh. I hope that he isn’t jealous that others already knew I was back...“ Akira says as she shrugs his shoulders, and saves Mishima’s number into his phone so he knows who is texting him when message notifications pop up. Akira then texts Mishima back.

“ Hey, Mishima! Sorry for the late response, I was sleeping. And also sorry ‘cause I had to get a new phone and forgot everyone’s numbers. Glad to see that you found me, because I had a hard time finding a way to connect back with you since school is out. But yes, I will be in the area all summer as I figure out if I wanna go back for my 3rd year. I am not busy today; wanna chill? ” - Akira

“* sigh * At least offering to hang out would be a nice thing to do. Might as well try and see ‘em” said Akira as he gets up from the bed. He looks around his room, and starts to get curious. “... Where’s Morgana? Downstairs?...” Akira questions as he composes himself, and walks downstairs…

*****

“Well, there’s the sleepyhead! Good Afternoon” said Sojiro.

“Hehe, Hey. Where’s Morgana?” Akira asks as he sits at the bar counter.

“Oh, Futaba took him to my place; because you were sleeping and Morgana wanted to take a walk I guess” said Sojiro.

“What is he, a dog now? He better not try and replace me like he tried to do with Haru… Eh...” mumbled AKira.

“What did ‘ya say? The coffee brewer is a bit loud today; thinkin’ of gettin’ a replacement on this old thing” said Sojiro.

“Nothing. If Morgana is with Futaba, then they are in trusted hands. I might go out later myself, so if they return tell Morgana- uh… I mean Futaba, that I might be going to hang with my friend Mishima” said Akira.

“Oh, okay. When?” Sojiro asks.

“Good question…” Akira responded. Coincidentally at that moment, Akira’s phone starts to vibrate in his phone. “That is probably him right now”. Akira goes to check his phone, and sure enough it is Mishima.

“ No worries! I heard the gist from Ryuji… But yes, we can hangout today! I just have to return home really quickly to drop off some stuff, and we can. How about we hang in Yoyogi Park? ” - Mishima

“Hm…” Akira mumbles.

“Is that your friend?” Sojiro asks.

“Yea. Figuring out a place to meet” said Akira. He then texts Mishima back.

“ Fine by me. I can be down there in an hour or so. Text you when I am there ” - Akira

“ That works out perfectly actually. I will as well. See ‘ya! ” - Mishima

“Headin’ to Yoyogi Park” Akira announced as he got up from the bar counter, and headed back upstairs.

“Leavin’ so soon?” Sojiro asks.

“Got to get dressed, and head out for Shibuya. At noon, it could take me over an hour to get there” said Akira.

“Right right… I’d drive ‘ya, but I gotta work” said Sojiro.

“I appreciate the offer. Imma go get ready” said Akira as he walks back upstairs, gets ready, and makes way to hang out with Mishima...

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

The last time Akira went to Yoyogi Park, he got a ride. This time around, Akira will have to find his own mode of transportation to get back home. And so, he makes his way to ‘Yoyogi-Koen Station’, which will allow him to hop on a train that will take him straight to Yoyogi Park. He manages to catch the next train out, and as he also finds a seat to sit on he patiently waits for his arrival. With no book to read, and not feeling the urge to play an app game while on a crowded train he looks out the window  to his side; gazing at the passing scenery flashing by. Soon, Akira gets off of the train, and stands outside the Yoyogi-Koen Station; eyeing Yoyogi park that rests in the distance. 

“Hmm… Well, I haven’t gotten a text from Mishima yet; perhaps I arrived first,” said Akira. Shrugging his shoulders, he ventures forward.

*****

Approaching one of the park entrances, Akira sees many civilians playing around with their kids, as well as enjoying leisurely walks in the park. As Akira proceeds down one of the walkways, he looks side-to-side; attempting to locate Mishima.

“Well… We don’t have a meeting place… This park is kinda big…” said Akira. He then gets out his phone to text Mishima.

“ Hey, Mishima. I am currently at the park. Where r u? ” - Akira

Suddenly, Akira receives a text back.

“ Hey, sorry! I’m running a bit late! The train I am on was delayed a bit; please wait near Zelkova Avenue please! ” - Mishima

“Zelkova Ave? Well, I’m not too far away. Guess I can walk around while I wait” Akira said. And so, Akira starts to aimlessly walk around parts of the park with his hands in his pockets as he watches the world turn around him. During his walk, he notices a bunch of teams playing a sport over in the grass area; some of which he remembers seeing around Shujin Academy, but not knowing them well enough to go say ‘hi’. Entertained by the sport they were playing, Akira goes to find a nearby bench that was free to sit on, and goes to watch them play from afar. As he zeros in on them, he starts to catch parts of their conversation.

“... So, you guys actually believe the Phantom Thieves were ever real? Or Just?” one boy asks.

“Hm?” Akira says as the question catches his ear.

“Well ‘real’-... Meh, who knows anymore. They supposedly ‘caught’ the leader, but they couldn’t reveal his name to the public. Did they actually catch ‘em?. But ‘just’ is kinda tricky. I kinda thought they were cool for the time being they were hot. But, for all we know, they could have been just an internet hoax; or multiple people using that name for clout that all had similar intentions” said another boy as he threw the ball they are playing at one of the other boys.

“I can see that. All of the spotlight our school was getting because there were many entities tied to our school and what was happening… Makes you think- if they were real- just how close to use the members could actually be?” another boy questions as he catches the ball. 

“But, what about Kamoshida? Principle Kobayakawa? People died, and their name was thrown into the air. Can a ‘hoax’ cause murder?” another boy asks.

“True… Well, we might never know the truth; they didn’t release the alleged leader’s information to the public, so who knows if they even captured him. And, considering the backlash that would come from that I can see why they would never” said one of the boys. 

“Right. All I know is it was fun for the ride, but life moves on” said one of the boys, “Here pass the ball back!” he continued. The boys then laugh as they continue playing.

Akira, listening to their banter from afar, starts to hum to themselves; thinking deeply about their points of view, as well as the estate of the Phantom Thieves to the world. “ Hm… So even other students of our school are still wondering about us? Wow… I mean, with all the publicity our school was getting- and how everything went about with the ‘deaths’- I mean… Can you really blame ‘em for still having us in their minds ?” Akira thinks. He then sighs as he leans forward. “ But, they are somewhat true; If my identity as the leader of the Phantom Thieves were to become public knowledge, the government would be questioned by the world; and probably result in a public ousting of sorts. It’s… Also the reason why my record was wiped clean. But, they still try and keep tabs on me. Heck, I’m sure the government will figure out soon enough that I am back in Tokyo as well; I mena, they managed to stalk me all the way back to my home... ” Akira continues to think. Suddenly, his phone vibrates.

“Hm? Wonder if it’s Mishima. Akira then goes to read who it is by, and sees that it is Futaba.

“ Hey. Morgana is peeved that you went to the park twice- and did not bring them. Just texting to relay their ire for you at this current moment ” - Futaba

“Tsk, are you serious?...” Akira questions out loud. Akira then texts back.

“ Tell him I said sorry, and that I hope he has enjoyed his time with you ” - Akira

“ Don’t worry; I am teaching him about biometric fingerprint mapping, and how we can use fingerprints to hack into tens and millions of accounts online ” - Futaba

“Uh…” Akira says as he reads Futaba’s weird text. Akira then texts something back.

“ And… Why are you telling him about that? ” - Akira

“ Oh, just in case we need a buck or two; ‘ya know, create a criminal heist gang or something! Haha! ” - Futaba

“Hehe, this girl…” Akira says as he chuckles. He then replies.

“ Okay, well whatever you say. Be back later ” - Akira

“Agh, if it is not one thing it is another. Where is Mishima?...” Akira then questions. Suddenly, he hears footsteps running up towards him, and turns around to see who could be approaching. As if it was a blast from the past, Akira sees Mishima running up to him sporting the same outfit he always envisions in his mind whenever he thinks of Mishima; a white and green long-sleeve shirt with the ‘Boys Fight’ logo in the middle, and beige pants. Mishima, with a smile across his face, waves happily in the air as he tries to gain Akira’s attention.

“Akira! *pant* Akira! I’m here! *pant*” Mishima shouts. Akira then starts to don a bit of an annoyed look. 

“Calm down…” said Akira as he got up, and walked over to Mishima. As Mishima meets back up with Akira, he starts to pant and kneel over as he attempts to catch his breath.

“*pant* *pant* I’m sorry that I am late! The train was-”

“Relax, you explained it to me in the text. You don’t have to waste what air you have left on that” said Akira as he cut off Mishima.

“Oh, sorry hehe. I came from Harajuku Station, so it wasn’t a huge sprint I had to take” said Mishima.

“Oh? Were you at the Red Light District?” asked Akira.

“W-What? No! I was just somewhere where I had to take some alternative routes to get here” said Akira.

“Okay, well all that matters is that we found each other, and are together now” said Akira. Mishima then blushes slightly.

“Y-Yea, that is nice, hehe… Thought you had forgotten about me…” said Mishima as he looked down with a slight frown.

“W-What?” Akira asks.

“N-Nothing… Why don’t we find some place to talk?” Mishima suggests.

“Um… Well, okay. Let’s go over to a quiet bench” said Akira.

“Yeah,” said Mishima.

*****

Mishima and Akira then go over to a vacant bench near a clearing of trees, and sit down together. As they sit, there is a brief pause of somewhat awkward silence that comes from the both of them; each seemingly unsure of what to really say next. Akira, during this time as well as during their walk, keeps replaying what Mishima had said moments prior; about ‘forgetting’ him. Akira sighs as he thinks of what to say, and then turns to Mishima.

“So… You got my new number from Ryuji?” Akira asks. Hearing Akira’s questions seems to bother Mishima somewhat, as he sucks his teeth slightly. Akira notices this, and is thrown off

“... H-Huh? Oh yeah, I did…” said Mishima.

“So, you guys have been hanging out since I have been gone?” asked Akira.

“Um… N-Not really…” said Mishima, as his eyes look away.

“ Hm… The ‘happy’ front that he was holding up a bit ago seems all and gone now; as if he was faking it. I wonder… Neji had said that he was going through it, and I can kinda tell now that I am in front of him… ” Akira thinks in that moment. “So… How have things been since I have been away?” Akira then asked.

“Since you've been away? Well, things have been okay; quite different however” said Mishima.

“Different? How so?” asked Akira.

“Well, you were like the glue that held everyone together; metaphorically speaking. So, since you left, it would be logical that that glue would not always hold up” said Mishima.

“What… Are you getting at, Mishima?” asked Akira.

“Well, I-... I personally felt like the group’s foundation came apart slowly, and I started to go back to what I ‘used’ to be…” said Mishima.

“I heard from Futaba that you have been doing the Computer Club stuff, that’s a step in a new direction, right?” asked Akira.

“Oh, she told you that? She does not really speak to me; not entirely sure why” said Mishima. As Akira hears this, he thinks back to Futaba’s conversation about why she doesn’t have his number.

“Yeah, not entirely sure why either” said Akira as he nervously chuckles.

“But yeah… The club is nice, and it is a nice contrast to the volleyball stuff I was doing” said Mishima.

“Are you still doing it? Volleyball I mean?” asked Akira.

“Well, things are still a bit rocky after Kamoshida, but I still participate. But, I have been trying to find my own direction. I was inspired by that new manga that is out; you know ‘ Haikyuu ’??” asked Mishima.

“I think I have heard of that one. The main character has orange hair, right?” asked Akira.

“Yeah. But I have been using little things like that to help me keep muscling through all of this. Which… I’m sure you have seen first hand how struggling it can be to endure” said Mishima. 

Akira, hearing his words, starts to sigh as he thinks, “ Agh, I don’t really want Mishima to unburden on me… But, I feel like I’m the only one he would even speak to regarding this… ”. “O-Okay, Mishima… How so?” asked Akira.

“Well, I have been feeling a bit stagnant with how to proceed further in life. The Phantom Thieves… You may not realize it, but the actions that you all did truly changed my perspective on life. It gave me true hope for someone like me. But now, with everyone going on to do bigger and better things, I felt a bit off on myself that I wasn’t doing what they were doing” said Mishima.

“You should not be using someone else's path to dictate whether your own is or isn’t satisfactory, Mishima. You don’t know what someone is actually dealing with behind closed doors” said Akira.

“Y-You are right… I’m sorry, Akira; you are not my therapist, and I should not be just unloading on you like this…” said Mishima.

“ Well, you are not wrong… ” Akira then thinks as he sighs, “I-It’s fine at the end of the day, Mishima… L-Look, you just need to not be crushed by your own inner saboteur” said Akira.

“My inner saboteur… Yea, you are right. I’m sorry, I don’t mean to be such a defeatist; believe me, I didn’t feel this way before you left. It’s just that a lot of what I worked for started to slip away from my fingers; even the Phan-Site” said Mishima.

“Oh yea, I wanted to ask you about that- though, this now might be the wrong time to ask… I wanted to know how the public reception of the Phantom Thieves fared after disbandment” questioned Akira.

“You always talk as if I didn’t clearly know that you and the others were the Phantom Thieves; you always kept me completely outta the loop” said Mishima as he started to pout. Akira then rubs his head out of slight guilt.

“ Well, I guess by this point there is not a reason to really not mention it; it has been months since we disbanded… ” Akira then thinks as he sighs. “... It was for your own protection. I’m sorry. The stuff we endured; you didn’t have to go through all that” said Akira.

“But I put you through so much, Akira! Helping you out in any way is the least I could do” said Mishima.

“I try to not dwell in the past, Mishima… *sigh*... Going back to the Phan-Site, tell me about it” said Akira, attempting to deflect the conversation.

“Well, the site became stagnant; pretty simple honestly. That was the one area I thought I shined in in terms of helping others. But, because you all disappeared- and the public perception kinda leveled out- people kinda talk about them in passing” said Mishima.

“Yea, I can kinda understand that. But, just because the thieves are no more does not me you no longer have like-... Lost purpose” said Akira.

“W-Well, it’s just for months of my life it has been that, and I am having a hard time adjusting. Going back to the Computer Club, that was my first attempt in going in a new direction and finding things that I might enjoy” said Mishima.

“And, is it working for the most part?” asked Akira.

“I suppose. It’s just hard. I want to be able to help people, while also combating my demons” said Mishima.

“Well, you are not in it alone; I’m here now” said Akira, trying to be hopeful. However, Mishima starts to chuckle.

“... So, how come I found out you were here just a hour or so ago then, while everyone else knew two days ago??...” Mishima asked. Hearing this, Akira gets shocked by Mishima’s question; truly stricken and unsure how to respond…

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

“M-Mishima, I…” said Akira, unsure of what to say to that. Mishima shakes his head, and sighs.

“You all had a party too; I was not even invited… I could have brought cake or something!” said Mishima as his head slightly lowers.

“I-I…” said Akira, flabbergasted on what to say. He starts to think, “ That party was about the Phantom Thieves all meeting back up; it wasn’t an ‘Akira is back- let’s invite all of Tokyo over- party’!... W-Was it insensitive to not invite Mishima? When I thought of inviting the ‘boys’, the only ones that were even in my mind were just Ryuji and Yusuke. Agh… Now I feel like a shitty friend… ”.

“Ugh… I don’t want you to feel guilty or whatever…” said Mishima.

“Well, you are doing a good job at that,” said Akira.

“I just thought we grew such a deep bond before you left; you helped me discover so much about myself. But, I can’t get a text to see you when you come back?” questioned Mishima.

“I didn’t have anyone’s number, and as far as I knew no one had yours. I didn’t know, I am sorry. I can’t re-write the past, but I am here now. You said you thought I forgot you… Is there where all of that stems from?” Akira asked.

“Somewhat, yes… I would not be a good friend if I was not honest with what I feel about this situation” said Mishima.

“No, I understand… And probably deserve it… Mishima, like you, I have been questioning greatly my future actions. Heck, that is why I am here. So, I might have not been thinking as clearly as I should have. And, if I hurt you in the process I will own up to it, and wholeheartedly apologize” said Akira.

“Well… I do accept it. And, we can just go forward attempting to both be better; with each other as well as ourselves” said Mishima.

“I like that, yes. We can all go forward doing that, Mishima” said Akira. Suddenly, Mishima stands up, and attempts to don his somewhat poker-face smile.

“Well, if there was any ounce of you that still feels guilty, maybe you can treat me to a meal,” said Mishima. Akira then sighs.

“... Okay, where to?” asked Akira.

“Haha! I saw a nice restaurant while I was on the way here; let’s go there, I can show you” said Mishima.

“Sure. Yea, let’s go; my treat” said Akira. “ Gosh, these guys are going to bleed my wallet dry… ” Akira then thinks.

*****

Akira and Mishima then start to make their way to the restaurant Mishima had mentioned together; attempting to bury any hatchets they may have all in a plate of food. However, what Mishima didn’t say was that this place was near the Red Light District; a place that he saw before begging on the train. And so, Akira and Mishima hop on another train at Harajuku Station; Akira somewhat reluctantly does so. When they arrive at the corresponding station, Mishima guides Akira towards the restaurant. As they walk in, they start to gaze around the place; eyeing the tapestries and paintings on the burgundy walls inside. Akira and Mishima walk up to the front counter, and sees a Waitress standing with a smile at the front area.

“Hello, and welcome!” said the Waitress.

“Hello” said Akira and Mishima.

“How many?” the Waitress asked.

“Two,” said Akira as he looked at Mishima.

“Okay. Table, or booth?” asked the Waitress.

“What do you want?” Akira asked as he turned to Mishima.

“Um, I would like a booth if that is alright,” said Mishima.

“Then booth, ma’am” said Akira.

“Perfect! Right this way!” said the Waitress as they guided Mishima and Akira to their booth. As they sit down, the Waitress hands them two menus. “Can I start you guys off with drinks?” she asked.

“I’ll have soda!” said Mishima.

“I’ll just take some water,” said Akira.

“Trying to be healthy, I see” suggested Mishima.

“ No, I’m trying to cheapen this bill as much as possible!... ” Akita then thinks as he nods in agreement with Mishima and chuckles.

“Okay, one soda and water coming right up!” said the Waitress as she left to get their drinks. Mishima then dives right into the menu options, and starts to chuckle.

“Woohoo! This place has some bangin’ lookin’ food! Don’t you think?” Mishima asks.

“Yea…” said Akira. “ Good looking food, and very interesting prices… ” said Akira. 

“What are you lookin’ at?” asked Mishima.

“Something cheap…” said Akira under his breath.

“Hm?” Mishima says.

“I- uh… I think I’m just gonna get a burger or something. With fries” said Akira.

“Nice! I’m looking at the macaroni and cheese, maybe with a salad?” Mishima ponders.

“Sounds right to me. Do you” said Akira.

“Well, if that was the case- I would get this, and that. Oh! And this!” said Mishima as he pointed around the menu.

“N-Nevermind, don’t do you…” said Akira as he chuckles slightly.

“Haha! Don’t worry, I’m not a mooch” said Mishima. Suddenly, the Waitress comes back with their drinks.

“Here you go!” says the chipper Waitress as she sets down their drinks.

“Thank you!” Akira and Mishima say back.

“Now, are you guys ready to order?” asked the Waitress.

“Yes” said Akira as he looked at the menu once more, “I will have this hamburger with a side of fries” he continued.

“Okay, perfect. And you?” asked the Waitress, looking at Mishima.

“I would like macaroni and cheese, with a side salad,” said Mishima.

“Okay. Choice of dressing?” asked the Waitress. 

“Uh… Honey Mustard?” Mishima replies.

“Okay, we have that. If that is everything, I will get both of those orders up as soon as possible! I will take your menus now” said the Waitress as Akira and Mishima hand over the menus to her. She then walks away towards the back to put the tickets in for their orders, and as Akira watches her walk away Mishima notices him staring.

“She’s a beaut, ain’t she?” Mishima asks as he sips some of his soda.

“H-Huh?” Akira questions as he looks back over.

“The Waitress” said Mishima.

“Well, I guess… W-Why are you thinking about that now?... You gonna slip her your number when we tip?” Akira asks.

“Haha, I dunno if I have the guts to do that… Can’t a man just admire a good looking person?” asked Mishima.

“Hey, I am not judging you...” said Akira, as he starts to blush.

“S-Sorry, I’m just trying to make idle chit-chat” said Mishima as he laughed nervously.

“Hehe, you don’t need to make locker room talk with me to pass the time. Is it awkward speaking to me after all this time has passed?” asked Akira.

“N-No! I guess-... I just picked up social cues from other people on how to establish conversation. I have been trying to make more friends; especially because as we get older, and the people I know start to reasonably get distant, I cannot hang on them. So, I have been learning how to be less socially awkward!” said Mishima.

“I see… Well, that is not a wrong premise. Sounds like you've been getting social cues from Ryuji” said Akira.

“Ugh…” Mishima utters, as he gets visibly annoyed. Akira then leans forward as he sips some of his water, and looks at Mishima intently. He then sets the drink down, and starts to speak.

“... Every time I have mentioned him, you get a snarled look on your face, *ahem*… Why?” asked Akira as he cleared his throat.

“W-What? No I don’t” said Mishima, attempting to hide his reaction.

“ Yes , you do,” said Akira, egging Mishima on.

“No I don’t!” shouts Mishima as he stands up. Mishima’s outburst completely shocks Akira, and is almost speechless afterwards. Suddenly, Mishima covers his mouth and gets blush red out of embarrassment as others from around their table look over with slight confusion.

“M-Mishima, calm down… S-Sorry, I guess that I was just thinking things, and making assumptions...” said Akira. Mishima then sits back down, and sighs.

“I’m sorry…” said Mishima. He then thinks, “ S-Shit… Why did I just DO that?! Get it together, Mishima!... ” he then thinks. Akira, looking onward, is still a bit flabbergasted on his sudden mood swing- and doesn’t immediately respond.

“ Okay… What was that just now?... ” Akira thinks as he continues to eye down Mishima, “ Did… Something happened between them? Now that I think about it, Ryuji brought up Mishima once before too, and his reaction was kinda weird… What is going on? What happened while I was gone?... ” Akira continues to think. Akira then sighs.

“I-It’s fine, Mishima… Look, I think that is our food coming” said Akira as he looked over to the Waitress.

“Oh…” said Mishima as he looked over as well to the everso overjoyed Waitress.

“Annnnd here y’all go! One juicy hamburger for you, and one delicious macaroni and cheese for you!” said the Waitress as she sets down their food. 

“Thank you,” said Akira.

“Yes, thank you very much,” said Mishima.

“Is there anything that I can get you guys? Refills?” asked the Waitress.

“No, I am fine,” said Akira.

“I am as well,” said Mishima.

“Okay! Well, if you need anything do not hesitate to holler!” said the Waitress as she walks away.

“ Heh, someone is trying to get a good tip… ” Akira thinks. 

*****

Akira and Mishima then sit in brief moments of silence as they enjoy their meals; occasionally making small talk about how their meals taste. From Akira’s point of view, he finds it a bit hard to figure out how to bring up something for conversation because he is unsure what is going through Mishima’s mind. And, from Mishima’s point of view, he doesn’t want to say anything that might offset Akira any more so than he already has. Noticing the stillness in the air, Akira then sighs- and thinks of a topic that he would want to bring up to Mishima.

“... Oh! Uh, this might be weird, but I think I ran into your uncle when I came into the area on the 24th” said Akira.

“My… Uncle?” questioned Mishima.

“Yea… I believe his name is… Neji Mishima” said Akira.

“Oh! Yea, that is my uncle. Y-You ran into my uncle before me ?... You never even met before!” said Mishima, as he got jealous.

“W-Well, it is not like I tried to. It's a weird story actually. I guess he is a janitor or whatever? And he was cleaning at the bathhouse near my house, and I ran into him and spoke after I had an issue there. I recognized the last name, and said I knew someone with that last name. Then, he asked me if I knew you” said Akira.

“I see… Well, that is interesting. Yea, Uncle Neji does those types of odd jobs; he was always a free spirit type” said Mishima.

“Yea; he was kinda cool. But yea, that is what happened” said Akira.

“That’s nice. I have not chatted to him recently; probably not in the last few weeks at least. Is he doing well?” asked Mishima.

“ Why are you asking me?... ” Akira thinks. He then shrugs his shoulders with slight uncertainty. “Yea, I think so. I would have thought you guys would be alike, but not really” said Akira.

“Yeah, my family is interesting to say the least,” said Mishima.

“‘Interesting’ in a good way?” asked Akira.

“I suppose...” said Mishima, as his eyes started to wonder.

“ Hm… I feel like Mishima is getting a bit uncomfortable with me prying into his family… ” Akira starts to think. Suddenly, Mishima looks back up to Akira; as if he just remembered something.

“Wait- did you not get my number from him?” asked Mishima.

“Your uncle? U-Uh, well, I was basically too chicken to ask,” said Akira, feeling guilty.

“What?...” questioned Mishima.

“I-I mean, I gave him the impression that we were friends, so how do you think I would have looked asking my friend's uncle i just meet for their number?” asked Akira.

“Someone that really wants to connect with their friend...” responded Mishima. Hearing this makes Akira feel a bit worse than he already does about the situation.

“Uh-... Well, I have no excuses there... I felt like he would have thought I was bluffing, or not true to my word. I'm sorry, okay?...” said Akira. Mishima then sighs.

“I get it; it would have been uncomfortable to ask that sort of thing to someone you just met. Hehe, who knows if he even has my number saved onto his work phone anyways” said Mishima.

“He has a work phone?” questioned Akira.

“Yea. He has one that he will get pages on, and one that he will receive calls back from loved ones and friends. Most janitors do that kinda thing- I think. Then again, I suppose he could have had his actual phone on him…” says Mishima.

“Guess we will never know. Come, let’s finish our food before it gets cold” said Akira.

“Right,” said Mishima.

*****

Mishima and Akira scarf down the rest of their food for the next couple of minutes; enjoying eachother's company, and attempting to forsake the tension that seems to still exist between them. After their plates look bare, the Waitress comes back over with the bill. Akira, being the one to pay, takes it in his hands as he assesses the amount. Sighing and coming to terms with how much yen he will have to dish out, he pulls out his wallet and goes to approach the front to pay- but, not without leaving a nice tip for the Waitress. Mishima follows shortly behind Akira as he pays for the meal, and they head out.

“Well, Akira, I’m glad that I finally got to see you- and drag you all around Tokyo!” said Mishima.

“Yea. I know that this doesn't make up for the time that I didn’t stay in contact, but I hope that it’s a step in the right direction” said Akira.

“Very much so. I had a very nice time, Akira. And, I would really like to hang out with you again soon” said Mishima as she blushes. 

“We will; I promise,” said Akira. Mishima then giggles.

“Well, it will get late soon; I’m gonna wait for the next train back to my house” said MIshima.

“Oh, I can wait with you. The train I gotta take home is different, but I believe mine comes later than yours” said Akira.

“No, it is fine. But the offer means a lot! I’ll head there on my own, but we can chat later” said Mishima.

“Hm, well okay. Here” said Akira as he held out his arms. As Mishima sees this he starts to blush.

“W-What?!...” said Mishima, who gets flustered.

“We haven't seen each other in months; give me a hug man. I did actually miss you, you know?” says Akira.

“O-Oh, right… O-Okay…” said Mishima as he gets more blushed in the face. 

Mishima then goes in for Akira’s hug, and as their arms lock around one another they hold each other rightly; exchanging both their warmth and dormant admiration for each other. After a few seconds, Akira starts to think, “ Man… We are hugging for a while. Are… People staring?... W-We did go into a restaurant, sit, and eat together… Don’t want people catchin’ the wrong idea... ”. He then looks to Mishima- who has his face buried into Akira’s chest- and sees his expression slightly; complete elation, which puzzles Akira. Mishima then starts to rub on Akira’s back- which shocks Akira. “ I-Is he?... ” he continues to think. Suddenly, Mishima lifts his head.

“Y-You know, Akira… I’m really glad that I met you” said Mishima.

“That’s really sweet of you to say. I’m glad I met you as well, Mishima” said Akira.

“I-... Oh, n-never mind…” said Mishima as he unlocks his arms from around Akira’s body, and steps back from him.

“Hm? What?” questioned Mishima. Mishima then chuckles.

“It’s nothing- for now. Look, I gotta go; don’t wanna miss the train. See ‘ya!” says Mishima as he waves goodbye.

“Bye,” said Akira. Mishima then runs towards Harajuku Station, as he does so Akira stands there watching him run away; slightly calmed and reassured by his meeting with Mishima, but also greatly perplexed and concerned over him. Akira then sighs. “Well… No use fretting over it now…” said Akira. Akira then starts to walk aimlessly around the street; thinking of what to do next.

“Um… Well, I’m already in the area; could head over to the Red Light District and go to The Crossroads… Maybe even re-apply to work there?” questions Akira…

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

Taking a train over to the Red Light District, Akira walks down the main road until he hits the outside of the Crossroads Bar. The smell of booze and bad decisions permeates out of the opening as he is berated with red neon lights from the nearby sign. Sighing, he walks up to the door, and opens to go inside. As he enters, he immediately is hit with a stronger scent of alcohol, and he moves his eyes around the room to customers engaging in conversation, and passes passed out people at the Bar. Suddenly, they see an overt character come out from the back room, and back behind the bar. Akira immediately recognized them. They then walked up to the front of the bar, and leaned forward. The unaware person behind the bar turned over to greet them.

“Why hello there! What would you like to drink- Oh my!!!” shouted Lala Escargot.

“Hey there. Water will do” said Akira. Lala then leaned over the bar, and hugged Akira.

“Ah! I have not seen you in ages!~” Lala said as they tightened their grip.

“I-... Cannot… Breathe…” said Akira. Lala then releases Akira, and they start to catch their breath.

“Sorry, I just was so excited! I heard from Ohya that you might have left the area. Are you back in town?” asked Lala.

“Yes, for now. Speaking of- where is she? You know?” asked Akira. Lala then pointed to the bathroom.

“Yes, she is in there; puking her brains out. Ugh, I wish she could handle her liquor a bit better!” said Lala.

“I see… Well, I came to hopefully catch you both in my rounds; so this is somewhat perfect timing” said Akira. Lala then walked over to the bathroom door, and banged on it.

“Come on! Open up! You got someone here who wants to see you!~” said Lala.

“W-What?!... Go away, I feel like shit!” said Ohya behind the door.

“It’s a man~” said Lala, taunting her.

“W-What?!” said Ichiko Ohya . She then starts to rustle around the bathroom inside and pops right out.

”W-Who’s there? * gasp *!!!” she said as she gazed upon Akira.

“Hey there- woah!” shouted Akira as Ohya immediately pounced on him to hug.

“Akira! You are back!!! I knew you couldn’t bear being away from this face for too long!~” said Ohya.

“Ugh, well I certainly don’t miss your booze breath…” said Akira as he attempted to back away from her.

“S-Sorry…” said Ohya.

“No worries. I happened to be in the area, so I thought to swing by. I am trying to say hi to everyone that I can” said Akira.

“Well sit on down, and let’s catch up!” said Ohya.

“Okay” said Akira.

*****

They conversed for a couple of minutes all together; Akira telling them of his time back so far, as well as how his life has been since he left. He relayed to him that him being back is school related, and is taking his time to figure out what he wants to do with his life. Ohya then sets down her drink, and looks over to Akira.

“I see… Well, sounds like you have to do a lot of important decision making. I can tell you one thing; your education is important and can open doors for you. You play for cards right and you will not end up in a dead-end situation like most us adults do!” said Ohya.

“You could get the highest degree possible, and still be resorted to a bartender unfortunately…” said Lala.

“Well, both are true. I am unsure of how far I will take my education, but I need to know if I want to live out my last year in high school here or back home. I am still in the process of decision that” said Akira. Ohya takes another sip of her drink, and leans over in her chair.

“Anything we can do to help?” asked Ohya.

“Um… Dunno. I kinda was interested in knowing what you guys have been up to” said Akira.

“Well business at the bar has been okay! Nothing really has changed- other than I have less workers. So, feel free to stop by for a few if you wanna help around” said Lala.

“That actually would help, because I am looking for work now that I am out here and have the time. I will definitely not mind working back here when I have the chance” said Akira.

“Perfect!” said Lala.

“And what about you, Ohya?” asked Akira.

“I am still doing journalism. In terms of the things that happened to me after I started to go after them all for Kayo… well, it has been interesting” said Ohya.

“What’s going on?” asked Akira.

“After all of that Phantom Thief stuff happened, the media did what they could to not only dig up as much info they could on everything after Shido came forward, but also bury it. With a potential link between the mental shutdowns to him- and that being what my case was with Kayo, I believed that whatever happened to her was directly related to him. I tried to challenge Shido, and use what forces I had to shed light on what he caused. However…” said Ohya as she lowers her head.

“However?...” said Akira as he turned his head. Ohya then sighs.

“With the state he is in and how everything has rolled out, despite me having all the tools I could possibly have to rightfully accuse him it still has bore me no fruit. Either the evidence is buried away from the public, or it is null and void because people still don’t believe the evidence as fact. Heck, after all that was said and done people still question the existence of the Phantom Thieves. I would publicize stories, but they would not get the traction that I thought that they would because I cannot prove this stuff in court- and ruining his reputation is irrelevant because he ruined it himself! I… I would need to bring Shido to court and gather evidence against him, but there is no point when the system is protecting him and he has no power. There’s… Almost no point...” said Ohya as she takes another drink, and lays her head on the bar table.

“ W-Wow… She has been impacted hard. But, it all makes sense… And worst of all is that after it was all said and one we erased the metaverse. Any evidence she would have had to prove Shido’s guilt of it is destroyed; despite it being relayed to the public from Shido’s mouth of it all happening… ” Akira thought. Lala then pats Ohya.

“Because of this, she has been going through a hard time to ‘forget it all’ because she is convinced that with this coverup plus the evidence being null and voided- what’s left of it that is, that there is no point” said Lala.

“I see…” said Akira as he got sad. Ohya takes a bigger gulp of her alcohol.

“So I just get drunk!” shouted Ohya, putting on a fake smile.

“I-I think you had enough… You already threw up three times already…” said Lala. Ohya puts more money down on the counter.

“I can still walk straight, so fill her up!” said Ohya as she starts to get agitated.

“Ohya, I-... I wish there was a way I could help… But, I think you know more than anyone that I would be unable to anymore the way I used to…” said Akira.

"I see... So, you must not be able to give me scoops like you have been before..." said Ohya.

"In a way, yes..." said Akira.

"Here" Lala said as she finishes pouring another drink. Ohya quickly picks it up to sip.

“I know...  Thankfully, me and Koya are speaking; their state is not that bad now to where we cannot. So, I have been gathering information I am able to from her, and going from there. That, and just continuing to find the next scoop…” said Ohya. 

“Hm…” Akira said. As he starts to reflect on Ohya’s  deposition he starts to feel quite uneasy; this is the first person that he has reconnected with that has painted this vivid of a picture of how the time apart has negatively affected them. On top of that, Akira is aware that some of the reason that she has been going through such a hard time is directly linked to him. He starts to feel a bit saddened by it all. He then starts to pat Ohya’s back.

“You will find a way” said Akira, attempting to reassure her. Ohya then starts to sigh and gets up from her seat.

“... Thank you for the kind words, but they only will do so much in this world” said Ohya. AKira and Lala then sighed.

“Gosh, the boy is just trying to comfort you! Women don’t know how to treat men nowadays…” said Lala.

“ And you do?... ” questions Akira in his head. Suddenly, as she starts to walk forward she suddenly bumps into the side of a chair. The recoil causes the drink still in her hand to spill on her clothes!

“Agh, fuck!!!” shouted Ohya as she started to trip and fall. Akira then gets up and goes to catch her.

“I-I got you!” he says as he grasps her in his arms, and pulls her to her feet.

“T-Thank you… * hiccup *" said Ohya. Lala then starts to grunt.

“Great, another drink that I have to clean up from you!...” said Lala as she gets from behind the counter with a towel and starts to wipe off the spilled drink on the floor.

“And no towel for me, Lala-chan?” asked Ohya.

“Think of the spill on your clothes as punishment for what I put up with when you clearly are drunk!...” Lala responded. Akia then sighed.

“Here, maybe it might be best for you to head home for now, Ohya…” said Akira.

“You… Are right…” said Ohya. 

“I can call you a cab. I don’t think you are well enough to drive yourself home.” said Akira as he pulled out his phone.

“I took a cab here because I planned to get wasted !...” said Ohya. Lala starts to chuckle as Akira sighs some more.

“I see… Well, you sit down and don’t move- I will call a cab” said Akira.

*****

Akira manages to call a cab for Ohya, and after a couple of minutes the cab arrives out front. Ohya wishes her goodbye to Lala, and hugs Akira before he helps her into the backseat of the cab. She flops in, and attempts to reasituate herself before looking back at Akira as her face blushes.

“I… I am sorry that the first time you see me you see me in this state... “ said Ohya.

“No worries. Just sober up and next time we can hang out maybe when you got less in your system” said Akira.

“Hehe, okay. Well, it is nice that you are back at least Akira. Maybe you can help me get some new scoops~” said Ohya.

“Well... Perhaps. It would not be impossible for me to try. But, not for free” said Akira.

“Yeah yeah… Well, thank you. Okay cab driver, I think we are ready to leave” said Ohya as she gestures for Akira to close the door. Akira waves goodbye, and closes the door behind her and watches as the car pulls off. Akira then sighs.

“Hm… I wonder how I can help her situation… I dunno… It’s getting late, so I should actually head home myself. The next train should be leaving any minute, so I better head out now” said Akira as he headed back to the station to head home…

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

The Next Day…

Akira wakes up after the rollercoaster of the day that he had yesterday. He grudgingly gets up from his bed, puts on his clothes, and makes his way downstairs where Sojiro is preparing a brew of coffee.

“Ah, just in time- here” said Sojiro as he sets down a fresh cup of coffee for Akira to drink.

“Thank you…” Akira said as he sat down at the booth and started to drink it.

“You look like you slept well…” said Sojiro as he looks at Akira’s dull face, and concerned demeanor.

“ Yeah , I suppose you could say that… I-... just have had a lot on my mind is all” said Akira.

“Well I might have got some stuff to take the edge off” said Sojiro.

“S-Sojiro! I don’t need that kind of stuff, I am fine sexually…” Akira said as he looked down.

“W-What?! I meant that I could give your ass some shit to do to take your mind off things! Gosh, get your head out of the gutter!” Sojiro shouted.

“O-Oh…” Akira said as he sips on his coffee.

“Ugh… Well, I thought that refocusing yourself on tasks that you can get done might help. Often for me, staying busy is the best thing to help my mind not wander” said Sojiro.

“I agree… Do you have anything in mind?” Akira asked.

“Well, depending on where you might choose to study- either here, or somewhere else- that you might want to consider getting your own license to drive” said Sojiro.

“Oh! Well, that does sound like a good idea to do… I cannot drive… Well- legally at least…” Akira said.

“That way, you could at least get yourself to and fro- without needing the train system” said Sojiro.

Oh, but you forget- I am not of age. I need to be 18 to get it. I would not be able to until the 15th of September” Akira said.

“Ah… School would have already started by then for sure. But, you can at least start practicing or studying- something” Sojiro said.

“O-Okay… Could you teach me then?” asked Akira.

“Oh- I have no time to do something like that right now; I have a whole place to run, and a smelly teen to look after!” Sojiro said.

“Hey! I have not showered yet… and, what about Morgana? He doesn’t count?” asked Akira.

“The cat does not take up space, doesn’t eat all my shit, and does not smell- so no” said Sojiro.

“ Ha-ha … well, I suppose that I could ask Makoto- she knows how to drive… But, she might be a bit busy… Oh! But, she might have books I could lend for free” said Akira.

“That would be good if she did,” Sojiro says. Akira then gets out his phone, and texts Makoto.

“ Hey, Makoto- it’s Akira. I was wondering if you had any driving books I could borrow? Sojiro gave me the idea to study driving to prepare for the next steps in my life. If not, it is okay- but I thought I would ask ” - Akira

After a brief pause, Akira gets a text back.

“ Hey! I actually do have an extra manual that you could have; sis was very diligent in making sure that I had the resources to learn what I did as soon as I can. I guess she wanted me to have plenty. Anyways- I am a bit free today, but I am studying; if you wanted to stop by and get it you could ” - Makoto.

“ Perfect! I will get ready, and be on my way then ” - Akira

“ Awesome! Can’t wait to see you ” - Makoto

“Cool, well that settles it. I am on my way to Makoto’s to pick up the books.

“Alright. Have fun. Actually- hey! When you are out- could you pick up some items from me from the Underground Mall?” asked Sojiro as he hands Akira his list. 

“Huh? This looks like… Items you would get a lady…” Akira responded.

“Yeah- I plan on going on a date soon. But, with the business of the place- I just do not know when I would get out there to buy them. I would appreciate it if you did; I can give you the money for it” said Sojiro.

“No, I can buy them for you- they are not that expensive. Take it as a thank you from me to you” said Akira.

“Well that would be a kind thing for you to do for sure- thank you” said Sojiro. 

Akira tucks the list into his pocket, and heads back upstairs. Akira then spots Morgana relaxing on the railing of the top of the stairs.

“I heard it all- so, you are heading to Makoto’s? Take me!” said Morgana.

“I planned to,” said Akira as he started to put various items into his bag to take with him, “But, I am going to take a quick shower” said Akira. 

“Okay. I will be waiting; don’t go doing anything funny in there to take long!” shouted Morgana.

“Ugh- I don’t do that… In the shower at least…” Akira said as he began to undress, and grabbed a towel. Suddenly, he turns to Morgana. “Hey… is it weird seeing me undress in front of you? I don’t think I have ever asked you” Akira then asked.

“I don’t mind; it never seemed to bother me,” said Morgana.

“S-So, you saw my dick?” asked Akira.

“All 4 inches!” Morgana said as he chuckled.

“ Stop lying…” Akira said as he started to get annoyed. He quickly wraps his towel around his waist and heads down the stairs as Morgana continues to laugh.

“You are just mad. Okay okay- I will add an inch just for you” Morgana said as he continues to laugh.

“I can’t hear you!...” Akira said as he marched down the stairs. 

“Can’t hear who?” asked Sojiro.

“N-Nothing…” Akira answered, realizing that he could not hear the conversation that he was having…

*****

After a quick shower, Akira finds himself en route to Makoto’s house; hoping on the train system to end up at the station in the area of her house. Due to her living arrangements, she is in a more ‘upper-class’ portion of the community near the heart of the city. Akira clutches his bag tightly as he wrestles through the crowds of people before he ends up at the foot of Makoto’s building. He enters inside, rings himself up, and makes his way to Makoto’s house. 

* Knock * * Knock * * Knock *

“Oh! Someone is at the door! It is probably Akira…” Makoto said, with Akira hearing so through the door. As she opens it she is greeted with a smile from Akira and Morgana.

“Hey there, Makoto!” shouted Morgana.

“You could be correct,” Akira responded.

“Oh, you heard me through the door? Hehe, sorry! And hello Morgana- it is always a delight to see you~” Makoto said as she leans in to pet Morgana.

“A-Awe!~ Please go on!~” Morgana said as he blushes. 

“Anyways, the hallway is cold- please, come in,” Makoto said.

Akira walks into Makoto’s house, and he is amazed at the luxuriousness of the decor; beige accented black chairs and tables, a giant flat screen TV on the wall, various shelves and plants decorated around, and the smell of cooking food in the kitchen permeates the air.

“Wow, you have a nice place,” said Akira.

“Thank you. It is nice, but it lacks the rustic air of LeBlanc in my opinion” Makoto said.

“Hm, I suppose” Akira responded.

“Well I LOVE it! I wish I could stay here- and not Akira’s attic he calls a bedroom!” Morgana says.

“Well feel free to go get adopted by someone richer than me” Akira said as he rolled his eyes.

“N-Now now… I am not really rich persay. And besides, I don’t think sis would allow me to host a cat” Makoto says.

“Oh, yea- I have not seen your sister at all since being here… How is she?’ asked Akira.

“She is doing fine. I believe she is about to leave for work- she is here” said Makoto. Suddenly, they hear a door open and close from across the room. 

“Makoto- please clean up the kitchen once you are done cooking; last time you forgot. I should be back a bit early today, so if you want to eat dinner later we can eat together- oh!” said Sae Nijima as she stops in her tracks as she sees Akira in her living room, “A-Akira! I heard that you were coming over, but was not sure if I would see you before I had to leave” she continued.

“Well I am glad that I could catch you before you left” Akira responded.

“Yes. I heard from Makoto that you plan to start driving soon; I think that is a good choice for you to make. However, are you sure you want Makoto to be helping you drive?” asked Sae.

“H-Huh?!” said Makoto.

“Um, well I was just coming to get the books to help study; she was not really going to help me drive…” Akira responded.

“Oh. I thought that she was going to tutor you. That is a relief I suppose” said Sae as she sighs.

“W-What?! And why is that, sis?” asked Makoto.

“W-Well, um-... You can be a bit reckless behind the wheel” Sae answered.

“* gasp * No I am NOT!” Makoto said, feeling embarrassed. Akira and Morgana then start to chuckle; both thinking of her times driving Morgana in Mementos, and recalling all of your choices in driving them around. Makoto then looks over to them laughing- and gets annoyed.

“I am not a bad driver… You two would be my best alibis” Makoto says, as she attempts to plead her case.

“I am just making sure that Akira gets the finest experience to prepare him for life possible,” said Sae.

“Hmph, well- I suppose seeing sis judge someone as your first interaction back with her is befitting of her character…” Makoto says, being a little shady towards her own sister.

“Hm? Judge? Well, If honesty is judgement- then so be it. But yes, it is befitting nonetheless to see you- and see that all has been well since the last time we have met” Sae says.

“Yes. Without you- who knows what would have happened to me. You… Fought for my innocence, in a system that was built to systematically damnate people like me” Akira said.

“Yes; a system that even I became blighted to. Nonetheless, I am on a new career path now; I am on my way to work doing my introductions into the line of Defence Attorney work” Sae said.

“That is great. So, you are going to be aiding people in situations like I was- find some light in a tunnel of darkness” said Akira.

“That is a poetic way of saying it, yes. It would be an understatement to say that meeting you, Akira, has changed my life. Not only that, you have been an inspiration . So, this line of business is the best way to repay the eternal gratitude I have for your influence on my life- and my sister’s. Not to get entirely sentimental- but you coming into our lives changed our lives” Sae.

“Awe~ That is so nice, sis!” said Makoto.

“Yeah, I don’t know what to say- thank you…” Akira said as he gets blushed in the face, and rubbed his head nervously.

“I understand. I am not one to easily have my heart on my sleeve, so I hope my words convey my own bond to you; one that I feel is unbreakable. So, now that you are back in the area I hope that you can watch as I do my own part in making the world a better place” said Sae.

“I will. It will be an honor, Sae” Akira said.

“Well- I think I spent enough time catching up. Akira, Makoto- I will see myself off. Remember what I said, Makoto” Sae said.

“I know, I know!” said Makoto as she rolled her eyes. The sisters then share a smile between each other, and laugh slightly. Sae then turns to Akira.

“Have a nice day, Akira. And, you too, Morgana” said Akira. Akira and Morgana wave goodbye as Sae leaves out of the door. Makoto then sighs.

“Sheesh, did she really have to grill me like that?... Morgana, Akira! You know that I got us out of plenty of tough calls in Mementos and in Palaces with my driving!” shouted Makoto.

“Hehe, I know Makoto. I would be honored to have you as a teacher. But, with your busy schedule as well- perhaps I should look elsewhere” Akira said.

“Well, that does make sense… Well, speaking of- I should get back to studying. If there is anything else you need, you can hit me up. I am still looking forward to hanging out on Friday” Makoto said.

“Me as well,” said Akira. He opens his arms to initiate a hug with Makoto- and she leans in to hug him. 

“Hey! I want in!” shouted Morgana as he kept up to hug Makoto too.

“Hehe~. Of course, Morgana~” Makoto said as she felt elated in the energy of her precious confidants.

“I have to go shopping for Sojiro anyways- so I could not stay,” said Akira.

‘Oh, okay- then I guess it all works out” said Makoto as she goes over to the door and opens it for Akira. 

“Anyways, I will talk to you later, Makoto,” Akira said. 

“Bye!” Morgana says.

“Have a nice day, you two!” said Makoto. Akira waves goodbye, and walks down the hallway as Makoto then closes the door behind her, and goes back to studying.

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

Akira and Morgana hop on another train to the Underground Mall in the heart of Shibuya. As they get off their train they walk down the stairs to the inside where they see a condensed array of people rushing from one place to another. Akira does not get distracted, and heads to his first destination- Funny Face. It is a bag store nestled in between other clothing stores in the mall. As Akira walks up, he checks his lift. Suddenly, he becomes a bit discouraged.

“... Now that I am actually looking at this list… Is Sojiro getting items for a regular present for a date with a woman- of gifts for some kind of escort?... Oh man, Sojiro…” Akira says to himself. And so, he walks into the store, and looks around at bags.

“Hello, Sir. I assume you are looking for a gift for a lucky lady; anything please your eye?” asked the female worker.

“W-Well… * ahem * I was looking for something…” Akira says, pausing so he could look at Sojiro’s list, “... Something… Pink ” he continued.

“Ah! Well, we surely have a lot of pink options for you. Over there are some bags; pick one you think they would like, and I can further assist you then!” said the female worker as she walked away with a huge smile.

“O-Okay… Gosh, I don’t know why I am getting so nervous and I am not even buying a gift for a girl I’m seeing…” Akira says. He goes over to the bags the lady talked about, and glances at a few. However, to Akira- they all look the same. “Ugh… I am just going to get whatever one costs the least… Okay… This one seems to be the cheapest- let’s go with it” he continues as he picks up the bag, and heads to the front counter.

“You all set?” asked the female worker.

“Yes. I will be getting this one, please” said Akira.

“Oh she is going to love it!” she continued as she rang it out. 

*****

“Gosh… I guess I did not think about how much these items were going to be before I agreed to pay for all of them; perhaps I should have taken the money…” Akira said as he sighed.

“But it is for the big boss! You can always get more money- but love, that is something money cannot buy” Morgana says.

“Oh- quit it…” said Akira. He turns to his right down another hallway until he reaches his second destination- the Flower Shop he used to work at, Rafflesia. As he glances back at the list he can see that he does buy some flowers- but there was no specification on which ones that he should buy. So, Akira thinks to just pick up whatever ones that he wants. He walks up to the florist up front, and she waves at AKira.

“Hello, how may I help you?” she asks.

“I am here to buy just a basica bouquet of flowers; any array of colors are fine” Akira says.

“Oh! That will be easy then. If you are not picky- I can give you what I think is nice. Is this for a lucky female?” she asks.

“Yes, it is for me” said a female voice behind Akira. He gets shocked, and turns around.

“H-Huh?!” AKira shouts as he sees who stands behind him, “K-Kawakawi?!” he shouted.

“Hello there, Akira~” she says as she starts to smile.

“H-Hey! Um, what are you doing here? And, what are you talking about?!” Akira asks, frantically.

“I could be asking the same thing! I knew I recognized you from aways away. Seeing you just randomly back in Tokyo- and buying gifts for a lady- I had no choice but to approach!” Kawakawi said.

“T-These are not for a lady I am seeing!...” said Akira. Both the florist and Kawakawi gasp.

“Oh! Well, then that is good I suppose… A-Anyways, what are you doing back?! You did not tell me you were coming back!” Kawakawi shouted.

“Well, my main source of contact with you was the phone in LeBlanc- so…” Akira said.

“Yes. I would often call in and talk to Sojiro- that was his name, right? He is a bit weird. But, I think he likes me” said Kawakawi. Akira then gasps.

“D-Don’t tell me these gifts are for you!” Akira shouts, alarmed at what might be in his arms is for her.

“If so- his taste is bleak” said Kawakawi as she chuckles. The florist attempts to hold abc her own laughter as she looks at Akira’s bought items.

“O-Okay! I will explain myself once I am done buying these items. I-I am sorry for the delay” said Akira, turning to the florist.  

“Oh- it is fine, trust me. I will just arrange some flowers for you- and let you see!” said the Florist.

“Actually, mind if I choose? If these happen to be for me- then I at least want them to be good ones” suggested Kawakawi.

“Um… Sure…” Akira said.

*****

And so, Kawakawi helps Akira pick out a nice bouquet for flowers- that may or may not be for her. AKira waits on the side; ready to pay for the amount when it is ringed out. He then carries the flowers inside the bag that he just bought, and walks with Kawakawi to a nearby bench.

“So, what has been going on, Akira? What are you doing back?” Kawakawi asked as she and Akira sat down.

“Well, I am back for educational reasons…” said Akira as he goes to explain his current situation to Kawakawi.

“... Hm, okay- I understand. So, you might go back to Shujin- or leave elsewhere?” Kawakawi asks.

“Basically. So, I might be in the halls once more with you” said Akira.

“Well, that might not happen- actually” Kawakawi says.

“Huh? What do you mean?” asked Akira.

“Well, thanks to you- I have gotten the temperance to keep teaching after all my money issues. And, I managed to get a promotion! So, I am going abroad myself!” said Kawakawi, as a huge smile dons her face.

“That is great! I am so happy for you that you have gotten to that point in your career!” Akira says, elated to hear the news.

“As such, I no longer need the maid service either. Don’t worry- you will always be my master !” Kawakawi says.

“P-Perhaps you should not say that too loud!...” Akira said as he got nervous.

“O-Oh, right!... A-Anyways. This will be my last summer in Tokyo- so by the new school year I will already be teaching in my new location” said Kawakawi.

“I understand. Well, regardless- I am happy for you regardless if I am not around physically” Akira says.

“Yes. And, I have you to thank for that. But, I am sure you have heard similar time and time before since you have come back” AKira.

“Well, regardless if I have- it still does not reflect from your reasoning for feeling such a way to tell me that. I do consider you a Confidant; you aided in me having the freetime and lowered stress to do what I needed to do” said Akira.

“Yes, and you- well… You literally changed my life. Hehe, I mean- it is that simple. I was akin to a prostitute, and now I am making more money than I ever have in my life to where I only need to do that job. I can focus on what truly matters; my craft, and the students” said Kawakawi.

“And it is great to hear that you are now at that point in your life. Perhaps he can properly hang out before you head off” said Akira.

“Yes. I have already done a ‘send off’ in a sense with the school; they all got together and threw a party for me! I got to have a nice time with faculty, staff, and students- all but you. So, that would be nice~” said Kawakawi.

“Well, I can give you my new number- and we can arrange that,” said Akira. 

“Yes, I would enjoy that- I assumed as such when I was not getting through to the old number, and calling into LeBlanc was not working” said Kawakawi. They exchange numbers, and Kawakawi smiles.

“Here you go,” Akira says.

“Hehe. Well, this has been nice- but unfortunately I have to be on my way. I came to the mall to pick up a few things before I headed home. I have a business call later” said Kawakawi as she stood up.

“Oh- Okay. Well, it was nice to see you, Kawakawi” AKira says as he stands up too. They then go into hug- but then immediately stop.

“Um, perhaps we should not interact in this way in broad daylight…” Kawakawi says.

“I agree… I would also give you the advice to-... Perhaps make sure I am the only teen you call ‘master’...” Akira says.

“Hehe. Are you saying you only want me to call you master!~” asked Kawakawi.

“N-Not necessarily… I mean that it would be best for your career to have no more scandals…” Akira says as he reaffirms what he means

“Ah… Well, I appreciate you looking out for me… A-Anyways, I will be on my way…” Kawakawi said as she walked down the mall hallway- waving goodbye at Akira. Akira waved back, and then started to sigh.

“Okay… Well, let us finish up shopping- and head home…

*****

And with that, Akira makes his way back to LeBlanc with all of Sojiro’s items that he wanted. As he walks in the door, he sets them on the booth table as Sojiro goes over to them.

“You got them all?” he asked.

“Yes, sadly. Who… Are these for- exactly?...” Akira questions.

“That is for me to know and for you to mind your business and go upstairs!” shouted Sojiro.

“Yeesh, you talk that way to someone that bought all of that for you?” Akira asked.

“You are right… Would you want me to give you a massage, master?” asked Sojiro. Hearing that term being referred to him sent a chill up his spine.

“P-Please… Never call me that…” Akira responded.

“Good, then we are on the same page. Thanks. If everything works out- she might be your godmother- or however that works” said Sojiro. Akira sighs, and heads back upstairs.

“I guess we all can hope, Sojiro…” said Akira.

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

“Woohoo! Tokyo Destinyland here we come!” shouted Ryuji out of the side of the stretch limousine escorting the Phantom Thieves towards their future destination in Maihama. To his left and right sits Akira and Yusuke, and on the other side of them sits Haru, Mikoto, Ann, and Futaba. Each one of them marvel at the sight of Tokyo Destinyland come up front the horizon in the distance as they make their way down the highway. 

“Sit down, Ryuji! And shut the window- it is messing up my hair!” shouted Ann. Futaba laughs beside her, finding amusement in Ann’s annoyance.

“Well, I  am pretty excited! It is a good break from all the studying I have been doing as of late” Mikoto says, flipping her long hair to her back as she leans forward to get a better gaze out of the tinted window.

“I agree. Oh, I have been reading the books you lent me, Mikoto; they have been helping me understand how to drive” said Akira.

“Great!” Mikoto responds.

“Let’s not talk about studying during a getaway!” shouted Ryuji.

“I concur; let this joyous occasion brought to us by Miss Okumura not be wasted one bit” Yusuke responds.

“Hehe, it is nothing; I am just happy that I could book the place to ourselves once more. I was quite let down that we never got to truly enjoy the rides and such because of- well, we know what happened” said Haru.

“Yeah…” said Akira. Suddenly, Akira’s bag moves, and out comes Morgana!

“Well thankfully we are all in a different place, and can fully enjoy the festivities!” said Morgana.

“The ‘festivities’ are for us , not you!” said Ryuji.

“Now now; Morgana helped us during our times, so this trip is as much there's as it is ours,” said Mikoto.

“Thank you~” said Morgana as they blush.

“Keep your head down!” said Akira, stuffing Morgana back into the bag, “Haru might have rented out the whole place to us, but that still doesn’t mean there isn’t a ‘no pets policy’! We are sneaking you in!”.

“O-Oh… Sorry…” said Morgana.

“Yes, unfortunately there will still be staff present to make sure everything goes well; I am sure they will say something if they see a cat running around” said Haru.

“Well we did good last time, so hopefully we don’t have issues today,” said Futaba.

“Me as well,” said Haru.

“Still… I am very appreciative that you managed to rent out the park to us, but did you also need to get us our own limo- and private driver to the event?!” asked Ann.

“Yeah, I hope we are not taking advantage of you, or asking too much of you…” suggested Mikoto.

“N-Not at all! I did this because I wanted to. I thought this would be the quickest way to get to the venue anyways” said Haru.

“Haha!~ Well, I do not mind. Is there booze in here? Maybe we can sneak a sip!” said Ryuji as he rummages around the limo; opening any compartment he sees. Suddenly, Akira smacks his hand.

“Hey! Don’t get Haru in trouble! And you know you shouldn’t drink! I don’t even think you have drunk before!” said Akira.

“So?” asked Ryuji.

“Guys, I think I see the entrance up ahead! We are almost there!” said Morgana, popping their head back out once more.

“I said keep your head down!” said Akira, stuffing Morgana back in the bag.

“Miss Okumura, we will arrive in about 10 minutes. I will let you guys off in the VIP area, and you will be free to go” said the Private Driver up front.

“Okay, thank you so much” Haru responded.

*****

The Phantom Thieves then arrive at the entrance of Tokyo Destinyland, and exit the limo in luxurious style. They are then left in awe as they are greeted with fanfare, lights, and fireworks; the likes that would be given to A-List celebrities and alike. They go to enter the park after passing by the initial gate, and are given special VIP passes. Akira and the others put the passes around their necks like necklaces, and enter the enormous park and are greeted with happy faces by all the staff inside. 

“Wow… I feel like I am not worthy of this treatment right now…” said Mikoto under her breath. It was loud enough for Futaba right beside her to hear.

“I agree…” Futaba responds.

“So… what should we do first?” asked Ann.

“Mmm… Well, I am a bit hungry…” said Yusuke, as he rubs his belly.

“All snacks at all concession stands are free for us, so we can eat as much as we want,” said Haru.

“W-WHAT?!” said a shocked Ryuji.

“Yeah, the park was nice enough to serve us unlimited today. I’m pretty sure they are happy to. I mean, on a normal day a park would have to produce tons and tons of food for thousands of guests; there are only 8 of us- counting Morgana. I’m sure what amount he consume pales in comparison” said Haru.

“Hm… Makes sense. Well if that is the case then I suppose there is no harm in indulging” Makoto responded.

“Then let's head out!” shouted Ryuji.

And with that the group did. They pass by other small stands of various games they could play along the way to finding a snack bar of some sort in the nearby area. As they walk, they peer at the big rides in the distance; rides such as the whirl-around, various high-speed roller coasters, and the giant ferris wheel. In the very distance is the Destinyland castle; the giant majestic structure that rests in the middle of the park. Knowing there are good food places nearby they head in that direction. After a leisurely walk, they arrive at their ideal concession stand. Ann gets cotton candy, Ryuji starts to scarf down popcorn, whereas the rest walk away with hotdogs; with the exception of Morgana, who did not want any food.

“Yum~” Ann says as she is elated by the taste of the cotton candy.

“Taste nice?” asked Haru.

“For sure!” Ann responds.

“This popcorn is super butter-y; just how I like it!” Ryuji shouts gleefully.

“Mind if I have some?” asked Akira.

“S-Sure!” said Ryuji, moving over the bag of popcorn for Akira to grab some. “I would ask to try your hotdog, but I don’t know if you wanna share that” he continued. Akira reaches into Ryuji’s bag, and pulls out a handful of his popcorn.

“I don’t have anything, hehe. I did not bite this end of it, so you can have some of my hotdog if you want” Akira suggests as he consumes the popcorn in his hands, and moves his hotdog in front of Ryuji’s face.

“Well, if you say so- I’ll take a bite of your hotdog!” said Ryuji as he took a bite of Akira’s hotdog.

“That totally sounds weird!...” Futaba admits.

“Only if you make it weird!...” Ryuji says as he holds back the urge to blush.

“So, what now?” asked Makoto, eating some of her hotdog.

“I saw that whirl-around a bit ago; I kind of wanna go on it!” said Ryuji.

“What? But, you are eating food! You wanna ride a ride that soon after?” asked Ann.

“I have a tough stomach! I am almost done with my bag anyways- there really wasn’t that much in it!” said Ryuji as he turned the bag towards Ann to see most of his popcorn already gone, “Come on! Someone come on it with me!”.

“Count me out, I am taking my time with my food!” said Futaba.

“Me too” said Mikoto.

“Me three!” said Ann.

“Me… four?” Haru said unsurely.

“Agh, well I expected the girls to not wanna. Come on guys, don’t leave me hanging!” said Ryuji. Yusuke then gives Akira a look of uncertainty.

“I-I would prefer to give time to digest my food…” said Yusuke.

“I think that might be a good idea as well,” said Akira.

“What are you too, chickens?” asked Ryuji with a smirk on his face.

“ I know what he is trying to do… ” thinks Akira.

“What? No! I don’t want to throw up!” Yusuke responded.

“A shame that someone as astute as you has a weak stomach!” said Ryuji, further egging Yusuke on.

“Ryuji… I think we would be okay to ride if we just waited a minute…” said Akira, attempting to be the peacemaker.

“Grr! Fine! I’ll get on right now!” said Yusuke, as he goes to find the nearest bin to throw away the remains of his food. “I’ll make you eat your words! You will probably throw up before I do- because you are known to lie about everything!” he continues.

“You’re on! Let’s get in line!” said Ryuji.

“Not you guys making a competition out of who will throw up first…” said Futaba, rolling her eyes.

“Oh my…” Akira said.

“Don’t think you are out of the clear, Akira! You chicken too?” asked Ryuji.

“Tsk, please… I am not falling for your attempts… But, if I were to get on the ride I would not throw up” said Akira.

“Hehe, then prove it!” said Ryuji. Akira then sighs.

“Fine…” Akira said, finally giving in. “Can one of you hold Morgana?” he then asks.

“I will,” said Futaba. Akira then hands her the bag with Morgana in it. Suddenly, Morgana pops out.

“Good luck! Don’t lose and use this bag as a barf bag” Morgana then says.

“Agh… Jinx me, and I might” responded Akira, making a warning towards Morgana.

“Woohoo! Let’s go!” said Ryuji as he rushed off. Yusuke and Akira follow shortly behind reluctantly, while the girls trail behind them.

Ryuji, Yusuke, and Akira then get on the whirl-around ride, and fasten themselves in as the ride conductor starts the ride. As the ride starts, it starts to spin quicker and quicker with centrifugal force; pushing the three boys against the ride greatly.

“YEAAAAAH!!!!” shouted Ryuji, having the time of his life on the ride. 

“ Damn it, I should have set down ym glasses! Well, Ryuji seems to be loving it. This is actually pretty fun. But, Yusuke… ” thinks Akira, holding his glasses against his face so they don’t fly off. He puts his attention to Yusuke, who does not look like he is having a good time at all; in fact, he is somewhat going green.

“ Don’t throw up… Don’t throw up… DON’T throw up!... ” Yusuke thinks as he tries all he can to hold back his food. 

“Hehe, hanging in there, Yusuke?” asked Ryuji.

“I- * burp * I am fine! H-How about you?” asked Yusuke, putting up a poker face on how sickly he feels at the moment.

“Doin’ just fine! Wooo!” shouted Ryuji as he continued to enjoy the ride. Unfortunately for Akira and Yusuke, both of them want it to be over yesterday …

*****

“Oh my, I am alive…” Yusuke says, hunched over at the exit of the whirl-around.

“You guys sure looked like you were having so much fun!” said Mikoto.

“Y-Yeah” Akira responds with uncertainty in his voice.

“Totally badass! We gotta' do more!” shouted Ryuji.

“Well, we finished our food, so we can go on some rides. But, maybe we can start small and work our way up?” suggests Ann.

“Sure!” said Ryuji.

“Well before we do that- I might need to excuse myself to the restroom…” said Yusuke, feeling his stomach turning.

“I need to go as well,” said Akira.

“M’Okay. Well, I see the restrooms over there, and over there are some water-squirting games! Wanna go over there while they go to the bathroom?” asked Ryuji to the girls.

“Sure, that sounds like fun,” said Ann.

“Okay, well I gotta go!’ said Yusuke as he starts to hurry over to the bathrooms. Akira then follows shortly behind. Yusuke runs into the bathrooms, opens up a stall, and pulls down his pants. As Akira makes his way inside he can hear Yusuke’s moans of relief; ones that sound quite erotic.

“Uhhh~....” groaned Yusuke. Akira walks over to a urinal, and unzips his pants.

“ Damn… ” Akira thought as he started to relieve himself. “ Mmm… Today as been going well so far. Everyone- besides Yusuke- seems to be enjoying themselves. I am glad we all got the chance to hang out ” he continues to think as he starts flick his penis, and places it back inside of his pants. At the same time, Yusuke exits the stall with a reassuring look on his face. 

“Oh, Akira, you are finished as well” said Yusuke.

“Yes. You feel better?” asked Akira.

“Y-Yeah. If I am being honest, my stomach could not handle that ride. I am sure my face showed it…” admitted Yusuke.

“Well, regardless if it did or didn’t you are fine now. Though… Your pants are still undone” said Akira.

“Hm?” Yusuke questioned as he looked down. He forgot to button and zip his pants, so they are a bit pulled down! He starts to blush seeing as his underwear is being exposed to Akira. 

“Gah!” he shouts as he pulls them back up and properly does his pants.

“Hehe…” Akira says, attempting to laugh off the awkward situation.

“M-My apologies, I guess I was too focused on- well… yeah” said Yusuke as he walked up to the sinks to wash his hands alongside Akira. They then both turn on the sinks to wash their hands.

“It’s fine,” said Akira as he finishes up washing his hands.

“Oh! Akira. While I have you… I have something to say” said Yusuke as he turns off his sink, and goes to move for a paper towel.

“What is it?” Akira asks.

“Well, if you are still planning to attend my gallery tomorrow, I was wondering if you could stop by my place beforehand?” Yusuke asks.

“Oh, yeah I still planned on going to it, Yusuke. And I can do that. Why?” Akira then questioned.

“I wanted to show you my studio and the work I have done thus far. Plus, if you wanted to admire Sayuri, I have it at my abode as well” Yusuke responds.

“Oh. I would not mind going to your place. We can buddy up and head to the venue together” said Akira.

“Yes! That was my intention. I’m glad you are okay with that. I can text you the address later” Yusuke said.

“For sure.  I will let you know when I am on my way and stuff” Akira said as he goes to dry his own hands.

“Come. The others are probably wondering what is taking us so long” Yusuke says.

“Agreed” said Akira as he and Yusuke exit the bathroom to continue their park adventures.

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

The Phantom Thieves continue their trek around Tokyo Destinyland further; following the path deeper into the park as they inch closer to the main castle in the middle. Their joyous time suddenly becomes interrupted when the group finds themselves in a fork in their amusing path; one that leads to more roller coasters, whereas one leads them to games where you can win toys…

“Oh! There are some cute animals over there! Let’s go try and win some!” said Ann as she attempted to scurry over.

“What? Do you not see those killer coasters over there?! I wanna feel adrenaline! Not try and win stupid animals!” said Ryuji.

“What? We just watched you guys get on like- two just now! Come do something us girls wanna do!” said Futaba.

“Exactly, you watched ! Haru rented out a whole amusement park for us- and all you are doing is watching us have fun!” said Ryuji.

“No, we are having fun; we just don’t need to feel our guts where our brains are everytime to do so,” said Makoto.

“I for one enjoy watching people have fun as much as I like to have fun myself though. But, coincidentally, each time you guys wanted to ride a roller coaster I either needed to use the bathroom or I saw a cute toy I wanted” said Haru as she giggled, holding her bags of already won trinkets.

“Yeah Haru is already winning in the merch game! Everyone knows that you have to leave a park with some merch! It’s like- exclusive!” said Ann.

“Tsk, whatever!” said Ryuji as he looked over to Akira, “Hey, back me up here!” said Ryuji.

“W-Well, I think they are right; I mean we don’t always need to go on rollercoasters. I think having a mix of what we want and what they want is key” said Akira.

“I agree,” said Yusuke.

“Ah whatever. Look, we can do that another time!” said Ryuji as he grabbed Yusuke and Akira, “Come on! That one goes like- SO fuckin’ high!” he shouted as he pointed to a dark and mysterious ride up ahead.

“O-Oh my!...” Yusuke said, gulping as he tried to hide his nervousness.

“Looks like a total thriller…” said Akira, slightly getting interested.

“Well, while you boys go risk your lives in that moving palace-looking ride I am going to stay with the pretty ladies!” said Morgana, purring within the bag Futaba is still holding.

“Morgana, you are more than welcome to stay with us!” said Ann.

“Yeah!” said Makoto.

“Okay. Well, It should not take long; we can play some games after?” suggests Akira.

“Sure!” said Haru.

“Come on girls! And, Morgana…” said Ann. The group splits up; the boys- minus Morgana- going towards the thriller ride whereas everyone else goes to play games..

*****

“Well, the best thing about being the only ones in a park is there are no wait lines, and we get to decide to sit wherever we wanna!” said an ecstatic Ryuji, as he, Akira, and Yusuke make their way upwards to the coaster, and go take their seats. Conveniently, this ride had tows of three. Yusuke and Ryuji sat on the ends, where Akira opted to sit in the middle of them. The conductor fasens them in, and the ride starts to scale upwards the track slowly. As they tick their way up the three boys marvel at the sight of the whole park. 

“Hehe, look down there! The girls look like little ants!” Ryuji said as a smile donned widely on his face.

“It is not nice to compare our friends to ants, Ryuji,” said Yusuke.

“Tsk, you know what I am trying to say! I don’t mean to really call them ants! You get it, right Akira?” asked Ryuji.

“Huh? Y-Yeah…” said Akira, attempting to cover up that he was not actually paying attention.

“Is something on your mind, bud?” asked Ryuji.

“No, I was just looking at the area. It looks nice…” said Akira. “ Actually, I got caught in my thoughts because I once again forgot to take off my glasses… ” Akira then thought. Suddenly, the boys hear a giant * CRANK * sound!

“WOAH!” shouted Yusuke.

“What the fuck?! We just stopped!!!” Ryuji yelled.

“Calm down…” said Akira as he started to look around, “I think the coaster got stuck or something. The ascension has some special mechanisms in place; we are not going anywhere unless they take us back down”. As Akira says that more clunking noises are heard, and the coaster shakes.

“Ah!” shouted Ryuji as he started to get scared.

“Well, if you really wanted to feel adrenaline Ryuji- I hope you feel it now…” said Yusuke, attempting to stay level-headed.

“Ha. Ha. If you were going to start cutting jokes, well you are picking the perfect time to!” said Ryuji, getting more anxious. Suddenly...

* CRANK *

“What the fucking is going on!?” questioned Ryuji as he continued to freak out. Instinctively, he reaches his hand out to grab something to hold onto for comfort- and ends up grabbing Akira’s hand!

“!...” Akira muttered, startled by him clenching so tightly on his hand. “ Wow, he is more scared than he is letting on. He is just grabbing my hand and looking around like a crazy person… ” Akira then thinks. Akira then sighs to himself, and grabs back Ryuji’s hand more properly; gently, as soft as he can, he closes his palm over Ryuji’s. Ryuji then realizes what is going on, and looks over.

“A-Akira!...” said Ryuji.

“Calm down,” Akira responds, looking Ryuji dead in the eyes. As he looks back at him, Ryuji feels a calming feeling overflowing him; suddenly, he was not as scared or anxious. He then starts to blush.

“T-Thanks…” said Ryuji.

“ Hm… ” Yusuke thinks as he glances over from the corner of his eye. Suddenly, they hear an intercom turn on.

“* zzz * Ahem! Our apologies for the sudden stop. Something jammed as you were ascending. We are going to attempt to dislodge you by running the chain, and it is either going to re-attach properly and you continue to climb and the ride will continue as expected, or we are going to just bring you back down and have to do maintenance on the ride. We have only detected something wrong with the ascending pulley system” said the Conductor.

“Uh… That was a lot of words…” said Ryuji.

“Essentially, they are going to keep it going, and if we cannot make it to the top they are bringing us back down” Yusuke said.

“Oh! Well, hurry up!” shouted Ryuji.

“Tsk, Ryuji…” said Akira as he shook his head. Suddenly, they hear more cranking sounds as the coaster starts to move upwards jaggedly. A sudden shocked feeling befalls them before they hear yet another clunk, and the coaster then moves upwards normally as it was before!

“Uh… I think it… worked?” said Ryuji.

“I think so as well,” Yusuke said.

“Well, that is good…” said Akira. The three boys then reach the top of the hill, and after a brief moment of stopped movement they inch over the top, and go building downwards.

“Woooooohooooo!!!~” shouted Ryuji.

“Hahaha!~” Akira let out as he started to feel the adrenaline flow through him; feeling weightlessness as he descended.

“This is pretty cool!” said Yusuke. The coaster bulkes and turns in a crazy manner as it winds around the skies of the area. The girls on the outside watch on as they hear faint happy yells from their friends.

“Haha, they are so stupid” said Futaba as she watched from below.

“But it is good they gotta ride it; it looks like they might have to close it” said Makoto.

“Yeah. The last thing we need is for Ryuji to come back down here and be in a bad mood ‘cause he couldn’t ride the ride he was dying to ride!...” said Ann.

“Nevermind those idiots. Lady Ann, your turn is up!” said Morgana.

“Oh! You are right!” said Ann, refocusing back on the game they are all playing…

*****

The boys finally get off of the ride, and the boys move to converge with the others. Cheerfully, Ryuji runs ahead of Akira and Yusuke, jumping and skipping about from ultimately enjoying the ride. Akira walks behind Ryuji; none the wiser of the perplexed Yusuke to his back, however. 

Holding his hand up to his chin, Yusuke starts to think, “ Ryuji and Akira… After the ride was over… They were still holding hands!... M-Maybe I am just thinking too much into it, but… I don’t know… ”. 

“Yusuke?” asked Akira, looking back.

“Huh?!” Yusuke said, startled.

“You looked like something was bothering you,” said Akira.

“What? Oh, I am fine. I was just thinking about… S-Sayuri. Yeah” said Yusuke.

“Hm… Sounds like something you would randomly be thinking about. Okay” said Akira as he turned back around. Yusuke, unsure of anything, decides to forget about it- and continue onward.

“You guys sure looked like you were having fun!” said Makoto.

“Yeah! It was totally fun!” said Ryuji. 

“How were the games for you guys?” asked Akira.

“Don’t remind me!...” said Ann, sulkingly.

“Did… something happen?” Yusuke asked.

“Lady Ann… U-Unfortunately lost every game she played…” said Morgana.

“I tried so hard!...” Ann continued.

“D-Don’t worry! I can try a game in your stead, and if I win a prize I will give it to you” said Yusuke.

“Well, while I am not turning down your offer to give me your prizes, I wanna win one myself!...” said Ann as she started to throw a mini tantrum.

“M-Maybe next time, Ann!…” said Haru.

“Well, I think it might be a good idea to do something that we all will participate in” said Makoto.

“I agree,” Yusuke said.

“Like what?” asked Futaba.

“Hm… A water slide?” asked Ryuji.

“I don’t wanna get my hair wet!” said Ann.

“Ugh!...” Ryuji sulked.

“Okay, well what about the teacups?” suggested Yusuke.

“Um… I might throw up on that…” said Makoto.

“Okay… Well, we could do something like Bumper Cars?” Akira then suggested. Everyone then looked at each other.

“...Let’s do it!” they all said at the same time. Akira smiled, and led the way towards their next destination…

*****

“Woah… The track looks kinda cool!” said Ryuji, peeking around their potential racing grounds.

“Hm. So, we just race around in a controlled setting, and the goal is to… just hit each other?” asked Yusuke.

“Yeah!” said Ann.

“Have you never rode one before Yusuke?” asked Makoto.

“Hm… I don’t really remember Madarame bringing me to one of these growing up, so I do not think so” respond Yusuke.

“O-Oh…” said Makoto.

“Well, then today will be your first time if there ever wasn’t one!” said Ryuji.

“Hm... Yeah” said Yusuke.

“Well I want my own cart!” said Futaba.

“Why is that?” asked Makoto.

“So I can finally have an opportunity to crash into all of you guys! Eat dust! Muhahaha!” shouted Futaba as she was buried into a car.

“He, we will see who crashes into whom!” said Ann, running right after her.

“Well, you are taking Morgana with you, so you won’t really be alone…” said Akira.

“Huh? Oh yeah, you are still in there” said Futaba, looking into Akira’s bag she still is holding to find Morgana.

“I would be honored to ride with you~” said Morgana.

“Eh, whatever. Come on, Haru” said Futaba.

“Makoto, you are a really good driver; could I ride with you?” asked Ann.

“Me? Hehe, you really wanna win- don’t ‘ya?” asked Makoto.

“Haha! You are the best driver among us!” said Ann.

“How does one… win?” asked Yusuke.

“Simple; if by the end I crash enough times into you that I feel like I won- I won!” Ann responded.

“Hm… Interesting. Well, I want to try my hand at that myself. I shall ride alone” said Yusuke, going to get into his own car.

“If that is the case, would you mind if I rode with you actually, Futaba?” asked Haru.

“What? I just said I wanna be alone… Well, I guess it wouldn’t hurt… * sigh * okay” said Futaba, giving in.

“Sorry! If Miss Ann is going to ride with Makoto due to her driving skills, I would wanna drive with you because you are so technical; there is no way you would lose!” said Haru, cheering her on.

“Hm… You are right! Jump in!” shouted Futaba, feeling the praise Haru gives her.

“Hm…” said Akira, looking around to find the perfect car for him.

“A-Akira…” said Ryuji behind him.

“Huh? What’s up?” asked Akira as he turned around.

“Would you… Um… Wanna ride with me? Y-You are just a better driver than me…” said Ryuji.

“Really? I don’t think I am that good... “ Akira responded. He then looked at Ryuji’s face. “ He’s blushing… Ugh… ” he then thought. “... Sure,” Akira continued.

“Really? Cool! Let’s choose that one! It looks cool!” said Ryuji as he rushes to a car he seemingly pre-picked, hops in its passenger seat, and waves for Akira. Akira sighs, and goes to sit in the driver’s seat of the car. 

With everybody situated in their own car, the gang starts to drive around the track. The likes of Futaba, and Makoto and Ann attempted greatly to bump into everyone else; Makoto moreso being forced to by Ann however. Yusuke, adjusting to the new experience, takes it slow as he drives along; often being bumped into repeatedly by the others- in particular Futaba. Suddenly, he is bumped into by Futaba.

“Haha! Got you again!” said Futaba gleefully. 

“F-Futaba, you don’t have to hit Yusuke every time…” said Haru. Ryuji, seeing this abuse of Yusuke’s inexperience, gets annoyed.

“Akira! What are you doing, bump into her!” shouted Ryuji.

“Okay okay, I am on it!” said Akira as he drove into Futaba’s side.

“Ha!” shouted Ryuji as he cracked a huge smile.

“Oh, you are gonna get it now!” demanded Futaba as she started to chase them down.

“Run!” Ryuji pleaded to Akira.

“On it!” Akira responded. Akira then drives off; winding past the likes of Yusuke, Makoto, and Ann as Futaba tails them.

“Oh no, we are gonna get hit!” said Ryuji looking back at Futaba.

“What?!” questioned Akira. Suddenly, Futaba bumps straight into their side; flinging Ryuji into Akira’s side as their car twists from the impact. Akira, shocked, turned over to see the brace of impact- but this was at the worst time to do so. Because, the moment Akira turned his head, and Ryuji was flung, their faces collided together in a spontaneous kiss! As their lips locked, shocked faces arose from the both of them.

“A-Akira!...” shouted Ryuji as he backed away quickly, and his face became beat red. Redding up himself, Akira lets go of the wheel to hide his face. Their car comes to a competent stop, and Futaba looks over.

“Huh? DId I hit you guys too hard?” she asked. From Futaba’s angle, she did not see their embraceful impact; only their bodies hitting each other

“S-Sorry…” said Akira to Ryuji

“N-No, bro… I bumped into you- I am sorry…” Ryuji responded back.

“ I… Just kissed Ryuji!... Why… Why do I feel so… Tingly?... I feel lightheaded… ” Akira thinks as he kneels over the wheel of the car. Ryuji then sees Akira’s body get somewhat limp.

“Oh no! I think Akira is getting overheated or something! I think we need to stop!” said Ryuji.

“What?!” questioned Makoto and Ann.

“Okay! Let’s get out and get him some water!” shouted Futaba. And with that, the Phantom Thieves all get out of their cars as they go carry Akira outside the ride to get some water and a proper place to sit…

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

“* gulp *...* gulp *... Ah!” Akira said as he finished drinking an entire bottle of water.

“Are you… okay?” asked Ryuji.

“Yeah! You nearly looked like you saw a Shadow!” shouted Morgana.

“... Yeah…” Akira responded, looking at Ryuji with nervousness. “ Of course I am still not okay- we just kissed! ” Akira then thinks.

“What happened?” asked Ann.

“Did I hit you too hard? I am sorry!” shouted Futaba.

“No… I think I just got so… overwhelmed in the moment” Akira responded. “ That isn’t a lie at least… But why I was is a whole other story!... ” thought Akira.

“Ah… Well, you seem to be back to normal now at least” saif Yusuke.

“I suppose…” said Akira. Ryuji then looks on to Akira without saying a word.

“ I didn't mean to kiss him… But… That kiss… Kissing Akira it-... It felt… ” thinks Ryuji as he rubs the back of his neck as he tries to hold back his blushing. Makoto then notices this.

“ Hm… Ryuji is acting weird… What happened?... ” she thinks to herself.

“Okay, well why not do something a bit less crazy next?” suggests Haru.

“... How about the Ferris Wheel?” Futaba suggests.

“Oh, that sounds like a nice idea,” said Yusuke.

“Yeah, I agree,” said Akira.

“We can just relax and watch the scenery!” said Ann.

“It might take a long time though. It might start to get a bit dark by the time it stops, so if we get on that just means the time for other rides goes down” said Haru.

“Eh, I think I had my fair share of thrillers today…” admitted Ryuji.

“Hm, well if that is alright with the thrill-seeker himself, I am down” said Makoto.

“If we are all in agreement, then let's move on!” shouted Futaba as she led the way to the Ferris Wheel.

The group walks a bit aways to the entrance of the Ferris Wheel, and they start to read the signs out front. Suddenly, they become alerted by something… the Ferris Wheel cars only fit a total of 5 per person; not counting Morgana, that makes 7 of them. So, two would have to ride in a cart of their own regardless. Everyone looks around at each other.

“So… Do we still all wanna do it?” asked Makoto.

“Well, personally I think if we all don’t then why do it at all?” Yusuke chimed in.

“Right, it does take a bit of time,” said Ann.

“But we won’t be able to do it all together,” said Futaba.

“Well, if we pick cars next to each other then we kinda are!” suggested Haru.

“True…” said Yusuke.

“Well, why not let Akira decide?” Ryuji offered. Everyone then looked over to Akira, seemingly all agreeing to have them make the decision.

“W-What?... Um… Well, I think it might be cool to try. And, if we are next to each other we could probably… I don’t know… shout to the other cars? I mean, we are the only ones here, so it isn’t really noisy…” said Akira.

“Hm, that is correct,” said Yusuke.

“I like that… But then the next question is how do we divide up?” asked Makoto.

“I say we draw straws! How about… the ones that draw the same color straw get in the car of two!” said Ann.

“I like it!” said Futaba. Haru, Makoto, and Yusuke all nod their heads. However, Akira and Ryuji were a bit reluctant. Due to what just happened, the last thing either really wanted to do was be trapped in a car together.

“S-Sure…” Akira finally answered. Ryuji nodded in agreement afterwards, seemingly just going with Akira’s answer. And so, Ann went to go get straws from a random snack stand, and they all drew them at random. 

“Within the straw wrapper would be a straw of a different color stripped onto it, so it is all based on luck; likewise, if more than one group of the same colored straw would be drawn, they would just re-draw” Futaba said.

“Right,” said Akira. 

“I hope I get the same one as Lady Ann!” said Morgana.

“Um… You don’t count! I mean, you can really go in any cart you want!” said Ann.

“Plus, cats can’t open straw wrappers,” said Ryuji.

“Huh? Who said that?! Lemme try!” said Morgana as he reached for the one in Akira’s hand.

“Not now…” Akira said as he gulped. They all then opened their straws at the same time; each one pulling out their color.

“Red!” said Ann.

“Green,” Makoto said.

“Well mine is blue,” said Akira.

“I got yellow,” said Yusuke.

“Mine is pink! Hehe” Haru said.

“Orange for me” Futuba. Everyone then looks at Ryuji- the last one to draw. 

“... Blue” said Ryuji, causing the girls to gasp.

“Looks like you are with Akira!” said Ann, giggling as they all looked at Akira.

“ Great… ” thinks Akira, giving a somewhat unsure look.

“Well, that was easy. Why not Akira and Ryuji get in this one, and then we can get in the next since it will take them a shorter time to get in” suggested Yusuke.

“Sounds like a good idea. Get in, boys!” shouted Futaba as motioned for Akira and Ryuji to move. Sighing, Akira walked into the cart, and Ryuji followed…

*****

Ryuji and Akira ascended up the Ferris Wheel as the others boarded below them. After a momentary elevated stop, they start to go up the Ferris Wheel slowly; quietly. Akira and Ryuji positioned themselves at opposite sides of the car; not even wanting to look at each other. The tension was thick, and each was feeling multiple emotions; embarrassment, nervousness, and hormonal angst. Fidgeting with his fingers, Ryuji sighed, and turned to Akira.

“... I feel like I should be the one to speak, since it was my doing…” he said, as he attempted to untense his body, “A-Akira… I am sorry for what happened…” he continued. Akira was silent for a moment, still looking out the window. Ryuji was a bit curious as to why he didn’t respond, but before he could speak once more Akira turned around to look at Ryuji.

“Honestly, kissing you was not the thing that had me so overwhelmed per say back there. The others don’t know what caused it, but I think you out of all them had a pretty good guess as to what…” Akira said as he crossed his arms and folded one leg over the other, “... I think what got to me was the… feelings that I felt because of it. The same ones that I clearly have been battling since the very day you confessed to me” he continues.

“Oh… R-Really?” Ryuji questioned.

“Yeah… I was avoiding it obviously; poorly in my opinion. I didn’t wanna think about it. But, to put it bluntly, your excessive persistence has forced me to think about it” said Akira.

“S-Sorry…” said Ryuji as he looked down.

“Because of it… I have not stopped thinking about it. In fact, every day of every hour I think I have. And every feeling I felt all came at me at once when you kissed me…” Akira said.

“I shouldn’t have done it! I mean, I was kinda forced to, but I wish I could take it back! I didn’t mean to offend you or make you feel weird, or-”

“Calm down.” Akira said, cutting off the pleading Ryuji, “When all those feelings came rushing into me I felt… a tingly feeling… It… It felt... Good ” Akira admitted, as he took his glasses off and started to blush.

“W-What?...” questioned Ryuji.

“I never felt something like that before. I mean, I have never kissed a guy before… It felt… Right? LIke, that is what it should feel like; like, a feeling I should have felt already, but was missing out on. And I was not used to that” said Akira. Akira then placed his glasses back on, and looked at Ryuji. “I got lightheaded and kinda felt like I was going to faint because I was so overwhelmed by how good it felt honestly… I know; macho sports guy Ryuji must think I sound weak, I know…” said Akira as he got embarrassed.

“N-No! You don’t at all!!!” shouted Ryuji.

“Hehe, well good… But, I am still confused… And honestly… Scared… It is all happening so fast; the feelings I am now having to think about which are ones I never had before. It is almost like the moment I came back, and this new chapter opened up for me- I developed this feeling overnight or something. I don’t know… I still want time to really make sure I am doing the right thing; for you and for me. Please understand” said Akira.

“I do… I did not intend for it to be that way. I wish our first kiss wasn’t that way…” said Ryuji.

“Yeah I understand,” said Akira as he looked out to the view of Destinyland. Suddenly, he gets shocked. “... Wait, what?” he asked, turning back to Ryuji.

“U-Um… That was our… First kiss… I wish I could have done it on better terms. On… M-My own terms…” admitted Ryuji. This caused Akira to blush moreso.

“O-Oh…” said Akira, not knowing what to say.

“... Can I… confess something to you, Akira?” asked Ryuji.

“S-Sure…” he responded, his face willing with slight anxiety.

“I… I want to do it again” said Ryuji.

“What? You want to… K-Kiss me again?” asked Akira. Ryuji then rubs the back of his neck in embarrassment.

“This is selfish of me… But, the feelings you felt then… I felt too. But, I guess since I meddled with the idea of you longer than you have of me- I was more content with it all. It felt so good to kiss you! It reaffirmed everything I felt! Feeling your soft lips… Seeing your face after we kissed; it was scary, but also… a bit happy… I want to see that again; to feel that again… Don’t you?” asked Ryuji, looking back at Akira.

“I-...” Akira truly did not know what to say back to that. Like he had said, it was a lot for him to even think of now; now Ryuji wants to kiss again?! But, one thing he said struck a chord with him. ‘ It reaffirmed everything I felt ’... Akira, subconsciously- whether he could put words to it articulately- felt the same way. For good or bad, he was more clear of his feelings; even if it all still is a cloudy field for him. Whether Akira could admit it now or not, he knew he had feelings he never explored before; ones for men, and perhaps for the one that he calls one of his closest Confidants. 

“I’m sorry! Forget I said anything!” said Ryuji, hiding his face; embarrassed for even saying it. Akira, seeing his demeanor, gets surprised. He then sighs, and slides over to sit near Ryuji.

“... Just once …” muttered Akira.

“... What?” Ryuji said, raising his head.

“Um…” Akira couldn’t really bring himself to say it again; he looked away as he picked at the collar of his shirt. “... We can do it one more time,” Akira said in a clearer tone. Ryuji suddenly became overzealous.

“R-Really? Great! Um… So then…” Ryuji said, getting quiet out of nowhere; the thought that he was about to kiss Akira froze him. He looked at Akira’s face- who barely was even making eye contact with him. Ryuji was unsure if Akira really wanted to. But then, Akira started to lean forward; slightly, but it was movement. He would then glance at Ryuji briefly- then look away. Suddenly, the situation clicked with Ryuji.

“ Oh! I should initiate it! ” he then thought. Ryuji then gulped, leaned in to Akira, and placed one hand gently on Akira’s chin; this encouraged Akira to face Ryuji head on. Akira and Ryuji then locked eyes. At this moment, a feeling fell over them; the want to desperately kiss the other. And so, they leaned in quickly.

* clack *

“Ouch!” shouted Ryuji.

“S-Sorry!” Akira responded. Ryuji collided with Akira’s glasses! “Let me take them off…” Akira continued, placing his glasses onto his lap. 

“Hehe… It is fine…” Ryuji said, placing his hand on top of Akira’s; the same ones holding onto his glasses on his lap. 

Ryuji smiled, reassuring Akira. Akira, who looked back into Ryuji’s face, felt less tense. Perhaps it was a mixture of their bumping into each other, and Ryuji’s smile; to Akira, all that was in his head was the want to kiss him moreso. They then leaned in together, and embraced each other once more; this time, under complete control of the moment. As they kiss, Ryuji gently wraps his arms around Akira, which makes Akira feel secure.

“ R-Ryuji… His lips… are so soft… I feel really really tingly… ” thinks Akira. Akira cannot put into words how much he is enjoying this feeling, and what he knows for sure is that he does not want it to stop. So, he wraps his arms around Ryuji, pushing his mouth closer to Ryuji. Ryuji, thinking it was going to be one little kiss, was surprised to find that the kiss was… still happening. Ryuji then kissed Akira again; tasting more of his delicious lips. 

“Mmm…” moaned Akira, sliding his arms lower down Ryuji’s back.

“ Oh my gosh! This is fucking incredible! Akira… I could just… ” thought Ryuji, as he kissed him once more; this time he was feeling something different. “Oh!” he says, getting startled by Akira’s tongue.

“S-Sorry…” Akira said. 

“Oh, don’t be!” Ryuji said, leaning back in with his own tongue. They started to interlock their tongues as they continued to kiss. They then lean back into the seat of the car as they start to make out with each other.

“Oh~...” Akira moans.

“ Fuck! Akira moaning is turning me the HELL on!... ” Ryuji continues to think. He can feel his boner rising in his pants, and he can tell he is getting hornier by the second. “Kissing you… You are totally the best guy I’ve kissed” said Ryuji.

“Yeah~…” said Akira as he continued to kiss him. Then, he gets alarmed, and pulls away. “... You’ve kissed a guy before?” Akira then asked. After a brief pause, Ryuji realizes what he said.

“... FUUUUCK! ” Ryuji thinks. He then scrambled around, and got blushed in the face. “What? N-N-No! I- uh, I mean like- you are the best guy I’ve kissed! C-C-Cause I totally have kissed girls before!...” Ryuji says, attempting to cover his ass.

“What? Ryuji… I can tell the context through the words…” Akira said. Ryuji looks at his face, and he can tell Akira feels hurt; betrayed even, despite them having no ties beyond Confidant.

“ Damn it! Why did I just ruin the perfect moment!... ” Ryuji then thinks. He is not really sure what to say at this moment. “I-... I haven’t kissed a guy I liked before… You are the first one… Please believe me…” Ryuji said back.

“ His words… They seem sincere… But… ” Akira thinks, unsure of what to believe.

“Hey! Are you guys okay in there! We heard Ryuji yelling, and we kinda started to get skeptical!” said Futaba.

“I mean, Ryuji normally yells, but we are just making sure because we cannot see him!” said Ann.

“Um, we are fine!” said Akira.

“Oh, uh- yeah! We are just excited about the… view!” shouted Ryuji.

“Yeah!” Akira responded back.

“Um… Okay…” said Futaba.

“Well the ride will be done soon; we were kinda thinking that we should go to the restaurant we were at the last time we came here. Haru says she has a surprise for us!” said Makoto.

“Yeah!” Haru said.

“She is neglecting to tell us what it is. But she said it rhymes with ‘Shmarade’... I am having a hard time figuring out what it is though…” said Yusuke.

“Tsk, Inari! The word it rhymes with clearly is PARADE ! Like, the one we didn’t get to see- but she wanted for us to see- last time!?” said Futaba.

“Uh-uh! I am still not telling you what the surprise is!~ E-Even if you kinda hit the nail on the head…” said Haru. Suddenly, Ann gasps.

“... Oh! That is what it rhymes with!” said Ann.

“Oh my…” said Makoto, realizing her intelligence among the group.

“Don’t worry Lady Ann; everyone had their strong suits!” said Morgana.

“... What is that supposed to mean?” Ann asked.

“M-More importantly, is that plan okay with you two, Akira and Ryuji?” asked Yusuke.

“Y-Yeah!” Akira and Ryuji speak at the same time.

“Good. Then we all know our next stop” said Makoto. 

“Yeah, we do…” said Ryuji. 

He then goes to look at Akira, who’s entire demeanor changed, and has moved to the other side of the car again. It can be clearly said that the vibe has been killed. Ryuji sighs as he goes back to looking out at Destinyland once more; daydreaming about the kiss he just had, and hiding his blue balls. “ Why did I have to open my stupid mouth!... Oh well… I enjoyed it while it lasted… I cannot believe what I said… Hopefully, he forgets it… ” Ryuji thinks.

“... Thank you,” Akira mutters.

“Huh?” Ryuji asked, thrown off by Akira’s words.

“I said, thank you… for the kiss,” said Akira.

“Oh… You are… welcome…” Ryuji said. 

“ Hm… I kissed Ryuji… and I liked it alot… Wow… ” thought Akira. He glanced back at Ryuji, who has since put his attention back towards the view of Destinyland. Akira sighed to himself as he looked down at his lap and felt his lips; lamenting at the moment prior his own lips being against Ryuji’s. “ What should I do now?... ” Akira continues to think to himself with complete uncertainty. The two then spent the rest of their ride in complete silence…

-CHAPTER END-

Chapter Text

After completing a full round, the party safely disembarks from the Ferris Wheel. The day had slowly changed into dusk by the time they all got down, letting them know that their day was coming to a close. The uneasy tension that had suddenly filled the space was observed by Akira, Ryuji, Yusuke, Ann, Makoto, Ann, Haru, Futaba, and Morgana as they huddled in a cluster together. They could all sense something was wrong, and the tension led to Akira and Ryuji, who all wondered, “ exactly what occurred in their cart? ”. Weirdly, Akira and Ryuji stood in the huddle opposed to each other; as if they didn’t wanna be near each other. But, the tension wasn’t going to stop some from still enjoying the day...

“... Okay, great! That was a lot of fun!” Futaba remarked, breaking the stillness. “So, after that lengthy voyage, I believe I have a desire to fill my stomach! I say we go to the restaurant and get something to eat!” she continued.

“Yeah, I agree. I am quite famished” said Yusuke.

“I suppose that would be a nice way to end the day; it is getting late,” said Makoto.

“For sure!” said Ann.

“I’m gonna eat all the food that I can!” shouted Morgana.

"Um..." Futaba said as she turned to Morgana, "I'm quite sure the reservations are for individuals who don't look like cats!".

“Hey!” said Morgana as they became sorrowful.

“Hang on a minute, about all of that... I actually asked the chef to create a cat-specific dish! When I asked them to do it, they gave me a strange look, but I persuaded them with my conviction. Morgana can certainly dine with us!” Haru stated.

“R-Really?! That’s awesome!!!” cheered Morgana.

“Hehe, then I guess we really all are set. Good looking, Haru” said Akira.

“Haha~. It is nothing, really… But, the reservation is for a time soon. The fireworks will also start shortly after. Shall we go now?” asked Haru.

“Yes!” said Ryuji as he ran off.

“Wait, Ryuji! Do you even know where it is?!” asked Ann.

“Oh-... Um… Can someone lead the way?” questioned Ryuki as he nervously chuckled.

“Tsk, what will we do with him…” asks Futaba. Haru then giggles.

“It is actually this way, Ryuji…” said Haru as she started to walk and point in another direction. The others soon followed her to the restaurant that rested at the heart of Destinyland, near the Destinyland castle in the middle.

Soon, the party arrives at the restaurant Haru had chosen for them to dine at, and after being checked in by the front waitress, they take their seats at the back of the empty place. They are all sitting around a circular table lighted with candles and different assortments of eating ware, with a great view of the Destinyland Castle in the backdrop. They all choose seats at random; Futaba, Ann, Makoto, and Ann sit with Yusuke, Akira, and Ryuji. Akira and Ryuji, in particular, are seated on opposing sides of the table. Morgana is tucked into Akira's backpack, where they all eagerly await the arrival of their meal.

The waiter comes around the table and offers each individual a menu, and the team is bombarded with costly meals, some with names they have never heard before. They glance down, nervously, for items they might like but are afraid of purchasing something too pricey. However, this high-end eating facility does not display any prices near the food; the inference that they begin to assume about such a location is that the individuals who would frequent there will have the luxury of never having to look at a price when dining. The waiter patiently awaits their orders and collects the menus as the party lazily talks with their ordered beverages in hand while they await the wonderfully prepared meal...

*****

Moments later...

The waiter brings out a cart with each of their selected meals; the combined fragrance of the dinners sends an overstimulated unami to their nostrils, exciting them as the cart approaches. There, the waiter places the item that each individual ordered for themself next to them; Ryuji received a shrimp soup with biscuit and tenders side, Futaba received hacker tomato cream pasta and garlic toast, Haru received a sirloin with a souffle side, Makoto received sashimi with a pudding fondue side, Ann received fish n chips with a cheesecake side, Yusuke received a sushi platter, Morgana received a cat-styled chicken pot, and Akira received a traditional hamburger with fries. Morgana leaps from Akira's bag as the waiter places their dish on the ground and they all begin to eat. The waiter then approaches Haru and whispers something into her ear before walking away.

“Hehe! Everyone, I was also informed that the fireworks display is going to begin!” Haru stated.

“Well then that’s perfect. We will have a joyous sight to watch as we fine dine” said Yusuke as he breaks apart chopsticks.

“Thank you again for putting this all on, Haru!” said Makoto as she cut up her sashimi.

“Yes! As they chomped away at their dinner, Morgana said, "This food is wonderful!". Haru started to feel good about herself as she continued to speak.

“Hehe, thanks. I wanted to go above and beyond to celebrate our re-meeting. The firework crew needed some preparation time, which was ample since we spent most of it touring around the park. It was to go off when we arrived at the restaurant. Needless to say, they were prepared to do so as soon as our food arrived...” Haru stated, suddenly becoming gloomy.

“As you can see... We all went back to our old habits once Akira had departed. It was... close to how I remembered feeling before we even met. It seemed as though... we were progressing; becoming more like grownups, if you will. While it's fantastic that we all have goals and are going to do great things, I... I wanted to cherish the fantasy of our childhoods; that is the sensation I connect with being a Phantom Thief” she continued.

“Awe… Haru…” said Ann, feeling a bit guilty.

“...I want to cherish this as well,” said Yusuke.

“Me too,” said Akira.

“I can also sympathize with going back to old habits; I did kinda hermit myself again!...” said Futaba as she nervously laughed.

“It is true that I have grown more occupied now that I am ready to attend college. Everything is moving so quickly. So I understand wanting to keep this sensation alive” Makoto responded.

“I have felt similar; it gets kinda lonely just chillin’ with Sojiro at LeBlanc” said Futaba.

“Hm… So, while Akira decides what he wants to do with his last year, I believe we should all make the most of our time together!” Ann stated.

“I agree! Maybe more public outings and such!” said Haru.

“Hehe… It's actually pretty fascinating... Almost every one of our group trips had centered around the Phantom Thieves. Now that we don't have such things, it's almost as if we have to rebuild our friendship group around a new medium,” Makoto explained.

“You are right… I never considered that…” said Ann.

“... Ryuji, you have been quiet. Are you enjoying your food?” asked Makoto.

“Huh? Oh...” Ryuji murmured, glancing down at his half eaten shrimp soup. In reality, he had been buried in his own thoughts during the entire chat, “It's okay. I just was thinkin' about stuff,” he says.

“O-Oh…” Makoto says, feeling slightly unease by his response. Ryuji then looks up from his plate, and accidentally looks at Akira. Instantly, he averts his eyes, and so does Akira. As they do this, the others could not help but to take notice that instantly, a tense air befalls the table.

“Uhhh- oh my! Look over there! I think the fireworks are starting!” shouted Futaba, attempting to shift the tension to something else. There, the group looks over to outside the Destinyland Castle to workers setting up the fireworks in place to be fired.

“ Perfect time!... ” thought Akira as he wipes away the sweat that has collected on his brow from nervousness.

“Right on cue. I was saving my souffle for when the fireworks came on anyway to enjoy both together!” Haru explained.

“Ryuji, move your big head so I can see better!” shouted Ann, attempting to get a good view.

“S-Sorry!...” said Ryuji apologetically as he moved his chair.

“Tsk, still not good enough…” said Ann, growing agitated by her bad view.

“Well, how about this; Akira is next to me, and my view is alright. Perhaps if I switch with Ryuji, and you switch with me Ann, our heights will even out where we are and we will all have a better view? I think I could still see where you are” suggested Makoto.

“S-Switch?” asked Akira outloud.

“ S-Sit next to Akira?!... ” thought Ryuji as he started to freak out.

“Yes! I like that idea! You guys don’t mind, do ‘ya?” Ann asked. Akira and Ryuji once again looked at each other, and got blushed in the face.

“U-Um… I mean… If Akira is okay with me sitting next to him…” said Ryuji nervously.

“ Jeez, he's putting all the pressure on me to make the decision! ... Ugh!... ” said Akira as he groaned loudly, “I don’t mind…” he answered.

“O-Okay…” Ryuji said as he got up to quickly switch seats around with Makoto. 

There, he sat next to Akira, and switched his plates around. Instantly, the tension that was in the air grew thicker; as if moving the two together was the worst decision they could make. It was then that everyone’s assumptions were fully realized that all the bad juju around them stemmed form Akira and Ryuji specifically. Fortunately, the tenseness was broken by the fanfare of the fireworks, which boomed out in a light display for the gathering. They ooh and ahh with surprise and delight as they watch the polychromatic pyrotechnics of all shapes and styles perform for only their eyes. Everyone's focus was slightly disturbed, however, by the addition of the fact that they couldn't get Akira and Ryuji out of their collective heads.

“ They have been super freaky since we got out of the Ferris Wheel... ” thought Ann.

“ Something has to have happened. Should we not have exchanged seats?... ” queries Makoto.

“ Hm… Akira and Ryuji... ” Yusuke thinks.

“ Something seems To be WRONG between them! But what exactly? Did they get into a fight? ... ” Futaba pondered.

“ Oh no… Did I do something wrong during the trip?... ” asked Haru to herself, assuming she is the cause of the discourse.

“ Whatever happened, it has to be Ryuji’s fault!... ” Morgana began to wonder.

“ Ryuji… He basically admitted to kissing someone else… I-I mean, why do I care? It’s not like we are exclusive; we are just friends! But… I dunno… I really did think it was like a-... first for both of us… Am I… Jealous?... ” Akira thinks, pondering his actual thoughts about Ryuji.

“ Oh man… He is surely gonna start digging around about what I said for sure! And, knowing him , he is going to rat for sure!... Ugh, I might as well kiss my chances with Akira goodbye!... ” Ryuji thinks, feeling extremely nervous and anxious about the events to come.

The rest of the fireworks show went off without a hitch; the party finished their costly dinners as the last bits of firework blasted off, and not long after, the company left the restaurant, returning to the front parking lot to exit Destinyland. They say their goodbyes to the Destinyland staff at the front, hand in their passes, which are still dangling around their necks, and enter Haru' limousine. They ride back home in style, but in quiet; the anxiety remains long after the fireworks have stopped. However, owing to seating circumstances, Akira and Ryuji were also seated close to one another.

As a result, they both stare in their separate directions for the remainder of the limo journey. Everyone within eventually falls asleep. Some quickly fall asleep, including Akira and Ryuji, who sleep on top of each other. Makoto was one of the only people still paying attention to them at that time, and she was perplexed by how... beautiful they looked sleeping against each other. It was as though they unconsciously wanted to be there. Makoto tries to ignore the rest of the vehicle journey, but takes a mental note of their position for the days to follow…

-CHAPTER END-