Chapter 4: Why Shiho?

I woke up in the velvet room again. I was not about to go back to sleep though since it seemed that Igor called me when he has something important to say. I got up and trudged to the front of the cell.

"Welcome to the velvet room. I thought about resuming our previous conversation tonight. That is why I have summoned you. What are your thoughts? Are you becoming accustomed to this place?", Igor asked, his wide smile never leaving his face.

"Considering how many times you have called me here, I can say yes. Don't think that is a good sign though...", I mumbled as I eyed the area outside of my cell. It looked so foreign, yet so inviting with its blue mist and comfortable looking carpet.

"Ah, glad to hear it. It seems you have nerves of steel. Your rehabilitation determines if ruin can be stopped. Yet, such a feat cannot be done alone. But today, you entered a partnership with someone who awoke to the same power, haven't you?", Igor pressed.

"You seem to know a lot about what goes on in my life.", I avoided his question. Who knows what this guy can do and what would happen if I mention Ryuji to him.

"I know many things, Trickster Spy. Involving yourself with others is an important foundation or your recovery. You've done well. That said, I am not advising the formation of superficial relationships. It must not be of frivolity but a ring of those who would, by morals or faith, lend you their strength. In other words, they are bonds with those who have been robbed of their places to belong. The expansion of said ring will, in return, help you mature as well.", Igor instructed. The wardens turned around to look at me.

(Justine-Caroline)

"Personas are the strength of heart... The stronger the bonds that surround you, the more power your personas will gain. There are countless people in the city that have talents that a weakling like you doesn't. You better rack that noggin of yours and get them on your side. We'll change that into power.", the wardens advised.

"Wait a minute. So you're telling me that if I want to actually kick a*s, I have to rely on the power of friendship?", I questioned.

Sounds like a cliché just waiting to happen...

Igor chuckled and kept on talking.

"Indeed. You should be prepared to use even myself, or your ambitions will not come to fruition. *chuckle* We have a deal then.", Igor smiled wider than usual and continued. "Well, you will understand it all in due time... Continue devoting yourself to your rehabilitation.", I felt Igor's high expectations of me being put on my shoulders.

We'll see how this goes.

"Now, this conversation's over! Get lost, inmate!", Caroline dismissed me with a ticked off tone. I paid her no mind and lied down on the prison bed, drifting back to reality once again.

--April, 13th, 20XX, Afternoon--Shujin Academy-- Past

Today was the volleyball rally, and everyone was told to head to the gym, get dressed, and participate. Everyone wore the school's gym clothes, but I wore my own since it was allowed. I wore a pair of black yoga pants, a white sports bra with a jacket on top, and a pair of black and white kicks. I wish I could pull my hair back, but my hair is to short to be styled in any way so I just left it loose, my bangs covering one of my eyes. Akira sat on my left and Ryuji on my right. We all watched the volleyball match between the teachers and the students. Kamoshida was leading the teachers and, no surprise, getting all the glory. The girls from the other classes who didn't know better were cheering the teacher on, making his ego bigger than his damn body.

Mishima-Kun was also a part of the team, but he wasn't holding up. He looked dejected. Takamaki-Chan was also there on the side, looking like she wanted to be anywhere but there. While everyone else was cheering, she just twirled her blonde hair around her finger.

"Still sticks out... Hasn't changed a bit.", Ryuji murmured as he gazed at Takamaki-Chan with a sigh. Ryuji looked back at Akira and I and yawned, stretching a bit. I glanced at his arms and chest for a bit.

Gotta say the guy is fit... Okay Rika, no staring. You're not a creep...

"Pretty boring. Right?", Ryuji asked with a grin.

"Yeah, not gonna lie... This is a waste of time...", I mumbled as I rubbed my eyes to get myself to wake up a bit. Suddenly there was an uproar of gasps and shouts. I looked to see that Kamoshida just slugged Mishima-Kun right in the face with a volleyball. I quickly got up and ran towards where Mishima-Kun had fallen.

Jeez, that bruise is not fading anytime today...

I saw Kamoshida run towards us. I put Mishima-Kun in one of the other students' arms and instructed them to take him to the nurse's office. Kamoshida watched as Mishima-Kun was taken away and looked back at me with a smile.

"Hey, thanks for reacting so quickly. You did great--"

"Forget it.", I scowled and left Kamoshida standing there with his fists clenched. I walked up to Akira and Ryuji and sat down next to them with a sigh.

"He'll pay soon enough...", Ryuji mumbled to himself, throwing the volleyball back to the team.

--Later, after the rally--

After the rally, Akira, Ryuji and I went to the courtyard to talk.

"That a*shole's actin' like a king over here too... Get to know each other better, my a*s. It's just a one-man show for him to stroke his ego. And how he acted like he was worried about Mishima? What an abusive d-bag...!... Well, anyways. Now's our chance to go look for the guys we saw were slaves yesterday. Let's look for the faces we saw at the castle. All the members of the team should be here today. I'll be sure to find someone to spill about Kamoshida's physical abuse. Just you wait, a*shole.", Ryuji pointed out.

"Well, where should we start?", Akira asked.

"... The first one that popped out was a guy from Class D, so let's start from there. Hopefully, you two can get him to talk without any issues. People have been avoidin' me lately, so...", Ryuji mumbled.

"I think I should be the one talking. Akira hasn't been getting the nicest looks either, and I am pretty decent at talking people into spilling.", I suggest.

"Where did ya learn it?", Ryuji asked, kind of curious in his own right.

"I read a lot of detective books growing up and I always used my knowledge to get what I wanted as a kid, Whether it was candy or buying the last Pokemon card from someone for cheap, I could do it!", I boasted with a smirk.

"Alright, lead the way!", Akira nodded. We all headed for our class, Class D, and found a boy bandaged up and tired. I signaled the boys to stay behind while I work my magic. I put on my best "I'm interested in you" look and walked up to him.

"Oh dear! You're hurt!", I ran up to the boy and gave him a worried look.

"O-Oh, this? I-It's nothing, really...", the boy blushed with a sheepish smile.

Bingo.

"How did you get injured? Oh, I hope it doesn't hurt too much!"

"W-Well, it was from practice... But I swear, it's nothing!"

"Who did this to you, sweetie? I promise I won't tell..."

"I... I can't! I-I mean, it was just from practice! Nothing more!"

Man, this dude is not going down! Must be afraid... Moving on.

"Well, I gotta go split! See you around!", I threw a wink towards the boy and left. I dropped the act immediately and almost gagged at my acting.

Someone kill me...

I went up to Ryuji and Akira and suggested we split up and talk to everyone in groups.

"Yeah, that would make things easier. Alright, Akira and I will go over to the practice building and you head over to the Classroom building. There is a third-year on the volleyball team that I remember. I think he's in... 3-C? The third-year classrooms are on the first floor. I'll hit you up if I find anything, Seeya!", with that, Ryuji and Akira left me to my work. I made my way to the first floor and went around to find the boy. I found him chatting with another male student, complaining about volleyball.

Found you.

I put on my best intimidating pose, which was me hunched over with a small scowl on my face and my hair covering my face. I walked up to the guy and got in between them and made myself known.

"You got something to say?", the boy asked, slightly worried for his safety.

"Nice bruises. You've been busy, but let me tell you that I am the one who runs this place. You wanna prove it?", I grumbled and cracked my knuckles.

"H-Hey, I-I didn't get these from a fight! It was from practice!"

"Looks like one hell of a practice. That Kamoshida beat ya?"

"Mister Kamoshida's just dedicated to training us. Don't believe everything people say."

"You sayin' I'm dumb?"

"N-No! I mean... Whatever, I'm going!", the boy ran off soon after. I dropped the act and sighed

No luck...

My phone buzzed in my jacket pocket. I pulled it out and leaned back on the wall.

------------------------------------

Troublemaker Blondie💀: How's it going?

🤓The ultimate bro🤓: Did you get anything, Rika?

You: No, they just keep saying Kamo-shitlord is dedicated to his work. Dedicated, my a*s😠

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Him too...? Man, everyone's too freaked out about Kamoshida.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: But I still got a lead. First year, new member.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: He just joined, so he might not be all wrapped up in Kamoshida's web of bullshit yet.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Pretty sure he's in class 1-B.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Try the first-year classrooms, Rika. They're up on the third floor!

You: Thanks for the tip.

------------------------------------

I sighed and made my way to the third floor. I walked around until I saw the first-year. I decided not to act and just try to talk like a normal person for once. I walked up to the guy and cleared my throat.

"Hey, are you on the volleyball team?"

"Huh? Y-Yeah... I'm on the volleyball team. Whaddya want?"

"What are those injuries?", I asked as I pointed at the guy's bandaged arm.

"Um... Mister Kamoshida gives special coaching to who are lacking in volleyball, especially Mishima-Senpai..."

Special Coaching...! Mishima-Kun is a part of the volleyball team and is receiving "Special Coaching" from Kamoshida...!

"Tell me more about the special coaching!"

"P-Please... Just stop talking to me... If Mister Kamoshida found me talking to you instead of training, He'll... N-Nevermind! F-Forget I said anything!", the boy ran off, probably avoiding me forever. The student broadcast started to play.

"Attention, attention. All matches have concluded. Please get ready to go home for today..."

I sighed as I pulled out my phone to notify the others about my progress.

-------------------------------------

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Dammit, we're outta time. How'd it go?

🤓The ultimate bro🤓: I feel tired from running around, but I still didn't get lucky. Everyone's avoiding me😓

You: I got a name and a little extra. Meet me in the courtyard and we'll talk about it there🙊

Troublemaker Blondie💀: You the man, Rika😎

You: Aren't I a woman?🤔

🤓The ultimate bro🤓: What are we talking about again?

You: Right. Kamo-shitlord, courtyard, lego! 🏃‍♀️

---------------------------------------

I stuffed my phone in my jacket and ran for the courtyard. I made it there but found no one at all. I decided to just wait it out. I sat down on one of the chairs and let my legs rest on the table as I shut my eyes and waited. I heard footsteps coming my way, so I opened my eyes to find not Ryuji or Akira, but Takamaki-Chan.

"Can I talk to you for a sec...?", Takamaki-Chan's voice was assertive but not threatening. I sighed.

"Is it important? I'm meeting up with someone in a bit."

"It'll be quick. Anyway, what's with you? like, how you and your brother were late the other day was a lie and all... There's those weird rumors about you too. You know, how your brother almost killed someone and how you might have been a part of it?"

Well, talk about straight to the point. Not the best approach, but I like it.

" "Part of it"? Well, that's rich.", I sassed. Just as I was about to say something else, Ryuji and Akira came around.

"Whaddya want with her?", Ryuji asked with aggression.

"Right back at you. You're not even in our class.", Takamaki-Chan fired back at Ryuji.

Ouch.

"... We just happened to get to know each other.", Ryuji mumbled.

In a castle.

"What're you planning on doing to Mister Kamoshida?"

Shit, she found out...!

"Huh!?... I see. I getcha. You're all buddy-buddy with Kamoshida after all.", Ryuji mocked.

He makes it sound like she's a prostitute...

"This has nothing to do with you, Sakamoto!", Takamaki-Chan fired back.

"If you found out what he's been doin' behind your back, you'd dump him right away.", Ryuji sneered at the mere thought of what had happened at the palace.

"Behind my back...? What's that supposed to mean...?", Takamaki-Chan asked.

"It means you and whoever associates with Kamoshida are not safe. I suggest you cut ties with him now before it's too late.", I said as I got up from my seat and stretched lazily. Takamaki-Chan looked surprised for a second.

"You wouldn't get it.", Ryuji sighed.

"Anyway, people are already talking about you three. I don't know what you're trying to pull, but no one's gonna help you. I'm warning you, just in case. That's all.", Takamaki-Chan looked like she was about to leave, but I stopped her before she ran.

"Shiho's in trouble. Stay by her side as much as possible.", I whispered in Takamaki-Chan's ear. She looked surprised as hell before absentmindedly nodding and running off.

"Why's she gotta be so aggressive all the time...?", Ryuji asked himself, kicking the floor half-heartedly.

"You know her?", I asked.

"She's been like that since middle school. Anyways, that's not what we're here to talk about. Rika, you said you got someone?", Ryuji urged me to divulge the details.

"Yuuki Mishima. Class D, in the Volleyball team, receives "Special coaching" from Kamoshida. Sounds like a hell of a beatdown, too.", I informed.

"True. I always see the guy covered in bruises. Let's go talk to him before he leaves then.", with that, we ran to the school gates.

--A few minutes later--

We ran until we found Mishima-Kun, cornering him slightly.

"Hey, got a second?", Ryuji asked the boy.

"Sakamoto...? Akira...? A-And Koga-Senpai?"

Since when was I a senpai...?

"C'mon, we just wanna chat. Kamoshida's been "coaching" you, huh? You sure it's not just physical abuse?", Ryuji asked.

Smooth, Ryuji.

"Certainly not!", Mishima-Kun answered quickly.

"What're you talkin' all polite for? Anyways... We saw him spike you today. Right in the face.", Ryuji retorted.

"That was just because I'm not good at the sport...", Mishima-Kun mumbled.

"That doesn't excuse all the other bruises, Mishima-Kun. What happened?", I asked. Mishima-Kun looked surprised by my worried tone but still dismissed me.

"They're from practice...!"

"Is he forcin' you to keep quiet?", Ryuji urged Mishima-Kun to speak.

"That's...", Mishima-Kun couldn't finish his words because a certain someone came by; Suguru Kamoshida.

"What's going on here? Mishima, isn't it time for practice?", Kamoshida asked but also sounded demanding.

"I-I'm not feeling well today...", Mishima-Kun mumbled.

"What? Maybe you're better off quitting then. You're never going to improve that crappy form unless you show up to practice.", Kamoshida ridiculed, which made me almost lose it. I stepped in front of Kamoshida and put my hands on my hips, giving him a death glare.

"I think you have gone deaf, Kamoshida. Mishima-Kun said he was NOT feeling well.", I spat. Kamoshida scowled but ignored me.

"Well, Mishima? Are you coming to practice or not?"

"...I'll go.", Mishima-Kun whispered.

"What?!", I was surprised, looking back at Mishima-Kun like he was crazy. I looked back at Kamoshida with pure hate in my eyes. Kamoshida leaned down to my height and smirked.

"As for you, any more trouble and you and your brother will be gone from this school. What a shame, I was hoping you would be at least willing to follow the rules. You may have become my favorite student, too."

"Says the guy who is having an affair with a student... And by "favorite student" you mean someone to sexually harass? I'll pass.", I whispered with a bigger smirk. Kamoshida looked shocked at my remark but bit his tongue. He knew that if he said anything now, he would make a scene and have to explain himself. Instead, he stepped back and looked back at Akira.

"Same goes for you. Didn't the principal tell you to keep in line?"

"You have an amazing spike.", Akira sassed with a smirk.

"Hmph. Just don't get in the way of my practice. All these unsettling rumors are making the students anxious, after all.", Kamoshida sighed.

"That's all your goddamn fault.", Ryuji hissed.

"This won't get us anywhere. Let's go, Mishima. Shujin Academy is a place where those with aspirations come to learn. Unworthy students like yourselves don't have any right to be here. Get with the program!", Kamoshida spat.

"Yes, sir.", Mishima-Kun mumbled. Kamoshida turned and walked away.

Don't "Yes, sir." him!

"That a*shole... He's gonna pay for this...!", Ryuji claimed.

"...There's no point.", Mishima-Kun mumbled.

"Huh?!", Ryuji turned back towards Mishima-Kun with an angry expression.

"Proving that he's physically abusing us... is meaningless.", Hearing that come out of Mishima-Kun's mouth, I pulled out my phone secretly and recorded what he was saying. I didn't want to pull out the tape recorder because he might stay quiet, so I wanted to take the info without Mishima-Kun noticing. Mishima-Kun continued.

"Everybody knows... The principal, our parents... They all know, and they all keep quiet about it."

What the...!

"This has gotta be a joke...", Ryuji breathed.

"... Don't be a pain. You don't understand what I'm going through. Shouldn't you of all people know that nothing's going to help...!?", Mishima-Kun asked Ryuji. Ryuji scowled at the memory. Mishima-Kun ran off soon after, leaving us with this new realization. I stopped the recording and shoved my phone in my pocket.

"Dammit...", Ryujii mumbled.

"What now?", Akira asked, scratching the back of his head.

"...I'll try one more time to persuade the other guys. That's... All I can do.", Ryuji begrudgingly said.

"Well, let's talk tomorrow and see what we can find.", Akira declared and walked towards the gates. I was about to leave until I remembered Igor's words.

Involving yourself with others is an important foundation or your recovery. You've done well. That said, I am not advising the formation of superficial relationships. It must not be of frivolity but a ring of those who would, by morals or faith, lend you their strength. In other words, they are bonds with those who have been robbed of their places to belong. The expansion of said ring will, in return, help you mature as well.

I sighed and turned back to Ryuji while trying to hide my face.

"Hey, Ryuji... Um, if you need anyone to talk to, just... Don't hesitate in calling me, alright? Don't waste your time in thinking without another point of view.", Ryuji looked shocked by my sudden act of kindness. I don't blame him, even I'm kind of surprised.

"Rika... Thanks, I'll keep that in mind.", Ryuji smiled and walked away. I sighed and walked out of the school, meeting up with Akira on the way to the cafe.

--Later that evening--

I walked upstairs and changed into a pair of comfortable PJs.

I flopped down on the bed and pulled out my phone to see that Ryuji texted on the group chat.

------------------------------------

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Hey, this doesn't make any damn sense.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: The principal and even the parents know about the abuse.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Why ain't nobody speaking up!?

🤓The ultimate bro🤓: They're afraid of Kamoshida?

You: That can't be the only reason. Is it because he made the whole volleyball team famous? 🤔

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Even so, that don't give him the right to do whatever he wants! 😠

Troublemaker Blondie💀: He's beating kids up, and all they're allowed to do is endure.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: And that follower of his doesn't give one single shit...

🤓The ultimate bro🤓: What follower?

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Ann Takamaki. You guys met her in the courtyard, remember?

You: Hold on now.

You: Sure, she is with Kamoshida, but maybe she has her reasons. Maybe she was forced into this...

Troublemaker Blondie💀: I don't know anymore, man...

Troublemaker Blondie💀: I can't let it end like this.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: I'm gonna try and find someone who knows about what's going on with Kamoshida during break tomorrow.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Just you watch, I ain't givin' up!

You: Good luck.

You: Good l<

You: G<

You: Bye now.

----------------------------------------

I plugged my phone in the charger and immediately went to bed.

--April, 14th, 20XX, Afternoon--Shujin Academy-- Past

I was in the middle of class when I got a text from Ryuji.

--------------------------------------

Troublemaker Blondie💀: So about witnesses...

Troublemaker Blondie💀: I was wondering if we could get something outta Takamaki.

You: You went her to spill?🤨

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Just hear me out.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: You know how we didn't get a thing outta the volleyball team?

Troublemaker Blondie💀: I figured it'd be a good idea to talk to someone who knows them.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Takamaki's BFFs with a starter. A girl named Suzui.

You: Shiho Suzui?

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Yeah, you know her?!

You: Yes.

You: Y<

You: No, just seen her passing by a few times.😔

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Dammit...

Troublemaker Blondie💀: I tried talking to that girl during break, but I got nothing.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: That's why we should have Takamaki talk to her.

You: That may not work, Ryuji...

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Yeah, I guess it'll be hard getting her to help us...

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Sorry. Lemme see what else I can come up with.

You: Okay, now go study!🤓

-------------------------------------------------

I put my phone away and continued class.

--Later that day, after school--

I got a notification on my teleporter app. I ran to the bathroom and teleported. I found myself back behind the bench in the courtyard. Takamaki-Chan and Suzui-San were on the bench, talking between themselves. I pulled out my tape recorder.

"Conversation between Ann Takamaki and Shiho Suzui. April 14th, Shujin academy.", I whispered into the recorder and began to listen.

"Shouldn't you be heading to volleyball?", Takamaki-Chan asked.

"Uh-huh...", Suzui-San replied blankly. Her voice was devoid of any life, unlike yesterday. I began to worry a bit.

"That bruise above your eye... Is that from practice, too?", Takamaki-Chan pointed out.

"Y-Yeah...", Suzui-San replied flatly.

It's like she just... Gave up.

"Are you sure you're not pushing yourself too hard?", Takamaki-Chan pressed.

"I'm OK... Volleyball's the only thing I can do right...", suddenly, Takamaki-Chan's phone rang but she did nothing to pick it up.

"Shouldn't you take that?", Suzui-San asked.

"It's probably just my part-time job... I think.", Takamaki-mumbled.

You think...?

"I... Should get going.", Suzui-San mumbled.

"Shiho...Are you sure you're OK?", Takamaki-Chan asked, growing worried each minute.

"Uh-huh...", with that, Suzui-San walked away with a sulking figure. Takamaki-Chan got up and answered the phone that was ringing this whole time.

"...Yes? Today won't work... I'm... I'm not feeling so good... Sorry... Bye.", Takamaki-Chan ended the call and left the area. I walked out of my hiding place and stopped the recording. I walked over to the vending machine and bought a can of cranberry juice and leaned back on the machine. A few seconds later, two boys came by the area and began chatting about something that caught my attention.

(Male-Male)

"Hey, wasn't that Takamaki?"

"Rumor has it she's dating Kamoshida."

"Seriously?"

"I heard people saw them in his car together."

"You know... She seems pretty easy, huh? You think I'd have a chance, too?"

Dude, stop.

"C'mon dude, you can't go after Kamoshida's b*tch!"

The boys left right after. I crushed the empty can of juice in my hand and chucked it into the trash.

There has to be a reason for her behavior...!

I teleported back to the bathroom and made my way to the gates until I bumped into Suzui-San.

"..What? Oh... I'm in the way, aren't I? Sorry...", Suzui-San mumbled as she tried to move away, but I held her hand and pulled her back gently.

"Don't be. Um... Suzui-San, right?", I asked.

"Um, no need for formalities. J-Just call me Shiho. Um, what's your name?", Shiho asked.

"Rika. Rika Koga. No need for formalities either.", I replied with a smile.

"Hm, you don't look familiar. Could you be that transfer student from Class D? The one that's the foster sister of Akira Kurusu?", I nodded at Shiho's comment.

"Um, this might not be any of my business, but don't let the rumors get to you, OK...?", Shiho advised. I was shocked by her advice but smiled and nodded.

"Thanks for the advice. Though they never bothered me that much. They were annoying but not that bad.", I assured.

"...My best friend is misunderstood too, all because of her looks... Ah, sorry. I didn't mean to drag on like that. Anyway, I have to go to practice... I'll see you around.", Shiho walked away silently. I sighed and checked the time.

I need to go to Ryuji and Akira, they agreed to see each other later.

I made my way back to the second courtyard and found Ryuji and Akira waiting.

"Hey.", I greeted.

"Yo.", Akira greeted back. Ryuji was too busy thinking to greet me back. He looked stressed.

"Dammit. What the hell...", Ryuji mumbled.

"No luck?", I questioned.

"All of 'em kept sayin' the same shit Mishima was talkin' about...! Kamoshida had to have told 'em something! At this rate... It looks like we'll have to go to him directly...", Ryuji murmured.

"Isn't that a terrible idea? We'll get in trouble and we won't be able to expose him. Besides, who would believe a bunch of delinquent students?", I asked.

"I know... But seriously, isn't there something we can do? No way I'm gonna give in like this! Can you think of anything?", Ryuji asked.

"I got nothing...", Akira sighed.

"What do we do...?", Ryuji asked himself. I thought for a bit before I got an idea.

"How about we punish the king?", I smirked.

"The king...? You mean that other world's Kamoshida? I didn't think of that, but... Is there any meaning to--", Ryuji was cut off by a voice.

"I finally found you..."

We looked around for the voice, but saw nothing but a black cat near the table.

Hmmm... A black cat, huh?

"... You say something?", Ryuji asked. Akira and I shook our heads no. That was a mystery until the black cat jumped up on the table and began to talk.

"Don't think you can get away with not paying me back for helping you."

"Morgana, long time no see.", I smiled at the black cat. At this point, I'm not surprised by anything with all the stuff I had seen at this point.

"How dare you, up and leaving me the other day!", Morgana scolded.

"The cat's talkin'!?", Ryuji was just as surprised as any regular person seeing a talking cat should be. Akira was mildly surprised, but not as much anymore.

"I am NOT a cat! This is just what happened when I came to this world! It was a lot of trouble finding you three.", Morgana huffed.

"Wait... You came to our world!? Does that mean you've got a phone!?", Ryuji asked.

"Really, Ryuji...? Really? A cat using a phone? I know that we have a talking cat, but this is too much.", I deadpanned. Ryuji laughed nervously and kept quiet.

"You don't need one when you're at my level. I did get pretty lost making my escape though...", Morgana sighed.

"That aside, why can you talk!? You're a cat!", Ryuji yelled.

"How should I know!?", Morgana exclaimed.

"You hearin' this too...?", Ryuji asked Akira.

"Meow?", Akira joked.

"This is no time to be jokin' around! Rika, tell him to stop!", Ryuji pleaded.

"... Nya?", I quirked my head, not giving a shit at this point. Ryuji got flustered and scolded us.

"S-Stop it! Jeez, what did I do to deserve this?"

"You guys are having a rough time of this, hm? I heard you mention something about witnesses.", Morgana guessed.

"Oh, shuddup.", Ryuji grumbled.

"You know, I could tell you a thing or two about what to do about Kamoshida. You were pretty close just a moment ago.", Morgana teased.

"God, that condescendin' attitude! This thing's gotta be Morgana!", Ryuji declared.

Bro, we knew that from the beginning...

"You were still doubting me!?", Morgana yelled.

"Ack...! Quiet down!", Ryuji whispered. We heard a bunch of voices come from behind us, but they were at the far back of the courtyard.

(Teacher-Member)

"We really have to be looking for a cat in a busy time like this...?"

"I just heard a meow somewhere near here. Didn't you hear it?"

"Make sure you check every nook and cranny around."

The voices faded away.

So they only hear meowing, and we hear Morgana talking... Convenient.

"Meow...? Does that mean only us three can understand what you're sayin'?", Ryuji asked."Looks like it.", Morgana replied, licking his paws.

"What the hell's goin' on...? Anyways, what you were talkin' about earlier... Is it for real?", Ryuji asked.

"You're quite the skeptic for being an idiot.", Morgana sighed.

"Enough with the snarky remarks, you're wasting my time!", I hissed. Morgana curled up in a ball, trying to hide. I sighed and continued.

"This isn't the best place to talk. Akira, stick Morgana in your bag for now. It should be just enough to fit.", I said as I grabbed Morgana by his collar.

"Hey! How dare you treat me like--", I cut Morgana off by shoving him in Akira's bag. I looked around and gestured to the boys to follow me. We walked all the way to the rooftop. I grabbed Akira's bag and let Morgana out.

"...Don't be so rough with me!", Morgana whined.

"Enough of that! You said you know how we can do something about Kamoshida, right?", Ryuji pressed on."It has to do with what Rika was talking about earlier. You'll need to attack his castle.", Morgana explained with a grin.

"Elaborate.", I commanded.

"That castle is how Kamoshida views this school. He doesn't realize what happens in there, but it's deeply connected to the depths of his heart. Thus, if the castle disappears, it would naturally impact the real Kamoshida.", Morgana hinted.

"What'd happen?", Ryuji asked.

"A Palace is a manifestation of a person's distorted desires. So, if that castle were no more...", Morgana went quiet.

"His desires would go too.", Akira breathed. It dawned on me that if this would work, Kamoshida would go back to being an honest man.

"Precisely! You sure pick up things fast.", Morgana praised Akira.

"For real!? H-He's gonna turn good!? But... Is that really gettin' back at him?", Ryuji questioned.

"Erasing a Palace essentially means forcing the owner to have a change of heart. However, even though their warped wants disappear, the crimes they committed remain. Kamoshida will become unable to bear the weight of those crimes, and he'll confess them himself!", Morgana cheered.

"You for real!? That's possible!?", Ryuji confirmed.

"And since the Palace will no longer exist, he'll forget what we did there as well. Not only will we be able to bring Kamoshida down, but there won't even be a trace of our involvement.", Morgana exclaimed.

"That's amazing! You are one incredible cat!", Ryuji praised Morgana for once.

"True, except for the cat part!", Morgana scolded.

Jeez, he is still defending his "I'm actually a human" idea...

"So how do we take down the Palace?", I asked, pulling at my hair gently.

"By stealing the treasure held within.", Morgana revealed.

"Stealing...?", Ryuji didn't sound so sure about the idea.

"I'll tell you more once you agree to go ahead with this. It's my most valuable, secret plan, after all. If you want to help me out, I'll gladly teach you. What's your call?", Morgana asked.

"Our luck's runnin' dry lookin' for witnesses. Guess we have no choice but to go along...", Ryuji sighed.

"There's no other way...", Akira nodded.

"Well, I guess I'm going with you guys. Got nothing better to do and looking at the wall at the cafe all day sounds like a waste of time.", I agreed. I actually was worried about all the people who were being abused and used. From the volleyball team to Mishima-Kun, to Takamaki-Chan, to Shiho, to even Ryuji...

I can't leave this be...

"...Good.", Morgana grinned.

"Wait... There is a catch to all this, isn't there, cat? I can see it in your eyes.", I crossed my arms and looked down on Morgana. "Talk."

"If we erase a Palace, there is no doubt that the person's distorted desires will be erased as well. But desires are what we all need in order to survive. The will to sleep, eat, fall in love-- those sorts of things.", Morgana explained.

"And what will happen if those desires are stripped away?", I asked.

"If all those yearnings were to vanish, they'd be no different than someone who has shut down entirely. They may even die if they're not given proper care. So...", and Morgana went quiet. We all had to take this new information in.

So if we do steal the treasure, the person with the Palace has a death sentence at the ready...!

"They might die...!?", Ryuji panicked.

"Will you listen to everything I have to say first?", Morgana mumbled.

"Would their death be our fault...?", Ryuji shook as he mumbled those words.

"Aren't you determined enough to face those kinds of risks?", Morgana asked.

"I don't like the sound of this...", Akira murmured.

"Sheesh... I come all this way, and this is what I get. It's not like anyone will ever find out.", Morgana retorted.

"You don't get it, do you?", I scowled at the furball.

"Huh?", Morgana looked confused.

"If we just go around doing whatever the hell we want, we will be no different than Kamoshida. I would be no different from my parents. Ryuji would be no different than the troublemaker people pin him to be. Akira would be no different than the criminal people say he is. Get it? I am NOT going to become a f*cking criminal. Period.", I ended my speech there.

"Isn't this your only option?... I'll come back later. Make sure you've made your decision by then", Morgana ran away right after his comment.

"Man, we're gettin' all worked up for nothing... Dammit! I'll try and see if I can figure out another way... C'mon, let's get outta here.", Ryuji sulked off. Akira sighed and looked back at me.

"You OK, sis?"

"Been better. You?", I mumbled.

"*sigh* Don't know, sis... We should head home.", Akira guided me out of the school. We walked to the front gate until we got a text from Ryuji.

Talk about quick...

-----------------------------------

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Hey, I heard something that got my attention.

Troublemaker Blondie💀:About that Suzui girl... Looks like rumors are going around about her and Kamoshida.

You: Kamoshida? That doesn't sound good.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: If they're true, it's no wonder I couldn't get her to talk.

Troublemaker Blondie💀:Still, something about that doesn't seem right.

🤓The ultimate bro🤓: What do you mean?

Troublemaker Blondie💀: It's just impossible.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: I've known Takamaki and Suzui since middle school.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: There's just no way Kamoshida's their type, y'know?

Troublemaker Blondie💀: So... I gotta wonder where those rumors came from.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Well, whatever. I'll try asking around some more.

You: Text if you find anything.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Got it!🧐

---------------------------------------

I shoved my phone in my pocket and pulled Akira with me to the station.

--Later, at the station square--

Akira and I finally made it to the station square, but we saw something odd; Takamaki-Chan was at the station, arguing with someone on the phone. I pulled Akira away from her so that she wouldn't suspect anything and began to listen in.

"Will you please give it a rest!? I told you, I'm not feeling up to it... Wait, what...!? That's not what you promised! And you call yourself a teacher!? This has nothing to do with Shiho! Ah...", the call was cut short from the other line. Takamaki-Chan stood there for a second before crouching down on the ground, about to burst into tears.

"Shiho's... Starting position...", Takamaki-Chan mumbled. I grabbed Akira's arm and walked towards her.

Screw her knowing, she is in trouble. I just know it...!

"Takamaki-Chan, get up.", I urged in a cold tone. Takamaki-Chan got up quickly and backed away from us.

"Wait... Were you listening?", Takamaki-Chan panicked.

"Not on purpose.", Akira replied flatly.

it wasn't on purpose for YOU. I meant to do that.

"Haven't you heard of privacy?... No, I was out of line. Sorry. So how much did you hear...?", Takamaki-Chan asked.

"Enough to know that you were arguing with someone... Fighting for a friend, huh.", I replied with a somber look.

"Shiho... It's nothing at all. Nothing...", Takamaki-Chan's eyes welled up but she ran before she shed any tears.

"Akira, go back home and tell Sojiro I will be studying at school. Don't say anything else until I get home, got it?", I commanded. Akira knew that this was not a matter for discussion, so he nodded and left. I ran after Takamaki-Chan through the crowds. I finally caught up to her.

"Takamaki-Chan, stop!", I urged as I spotted her near a pillar at the undergroung walkway.

"Stop following me... Just leave me alone!", Takamaki-Chan growled.

"I can't.", I stated.

"Why...? Why do you keep worrying about me? *sob*", Takamaki-Chan let a few tears fall across her face.

"Let's go somewhere safe. I'll lead.", I offered.

"What the heck...? I really don't get you...", Takamaki-Chan murmured.

"No one does, to be honest.", I replied with a smile as I grabbed Takamaki-Chan's hand gently and took her to the nearest restaurant. We sat down at the dine-in area and I ordered some water for the both of us.

"I don't have anything to talk about with you. It was just an argument...", Takamaki mumbled.

"With Kamoshida, am I wrong?", I asked. Takamaki-Chan looked down at the napkins and traced shapes into them as she spoke.

"You've heard the rumors... Haven't you? About Mister Kamoshida. Everyone says we're getting it on. But... That's so not true...! That was him on the other line. I avoided giving him my number... For the longest time... He told me to go to his place after this... You know what it means.", Takamaki-Chan's voice was frail as she poured her story out. I stayed quiet and listened, but I didn't record it.

Missed opportunity, but this is private...

"If I turn him down, he said he'd take my friend off as a regular on the team... I've been telling myself this is all for Shiho's sake... I can't take it anymore...", Takamaki-Chan began to raise her voice.

So this was all for Shiho... Poor Takamaki-Chan...

"I've had enough of this... I hate him! But still... Shiho's my best friend. She's all I have left at that sorry excuse of a school! Tell me... What should I do...?", Takamaki-Chan begged for an answer with her crying blue eyes. I tugged at my hair with a tight grip and bit my lip.

I wish I could, but I don't know how...

"Sorry... I shouldn't have asked. It's not your problem. What... Am I saying...? I've barely even talked to you before...", Takamaki-Chan sighed.

"It's fine. I chose to listen, and I don't regret it.", I replied.

"... You're so weird. Usually everyone just ignores me. Are you and your brother really as bad as the rumors say...? You just don't seem like it...", Takamaki-Chan mumbled.

"What are the rumors about? Not that I care though.", I asked, sipping on the ice cold water.

"That your brother assaulted someone... That he almost killed them...", Takamaki-Chan muttered.

"And my rumors?", I pressed.

"That you... Work for some dark organization to fish out people's agendas... Using them to plot chaos...", Takamaki-Chan almost scoffed at the rumor. I, on the other hand, was trying to hold in my laugh. I failed.

"Pfft Ahahahahahahaa! Really? Dark organization? Honestly, the creativity of these students are being wasted in trivial matters, wouldn't you say?", I giggled at the absurdity of the rumors. Takamaki-Chan smiled slightly at my laid-back nature to the rumors.

"I kinda had a feeling they were all just exaggerations. You and your brother seemed lonely-- almost like you didn't belong anywhere...", Takamaki-Chan confessed.

"I assure you, I will be fine. Can't say for Akira, but we can get through this. But... You ARE right to say that it got lonely. I'm... Honestly jealous of my brother since he only will experience this until the rumors die down. I... Had a lot on my back for the longest time that still haunts me to this day...", I mumbled, staring off into space and tugging at my hair.

"We're the same in that regard. Maybe that's why it was so easy for me to talk to you. Is there really no way for me to help Shiho...? I wish he'd just change his mind... Like, forget about me, and everything... As if something like that would ever happen...", Takamaki-Chan sighed. I stayed quiet for a second before I remembered something.

Erasing a Palace essentially means forcing the owner to have a change of heart. However, even though their warped wants disappear, the crimes they committed remain. Kamoshida will become unable to bear the weight of those crimes, and he'll confess them himself!

He can change, but... He might also die... But...

"It could happen.", I replied with a small smirk. Takamaki-Chan looked a bit flustered for a second before smiling a bit.

"I wasn't asking for a serious response. But I do feel a bit better now... I'm gonna head home. Don't tell anyone what I told you, OK? I'll try to think of a way to persuade Kamoshida.", Takamaki-Chan got up with her bag in tow.

"Don't mention it. Don't worry, I can keep a secret until the day I die.", I smiled.

"What do you mean?", Takamaki-Chan questioned.

" "If I show you, then I know you won't tell what I said... Cuz' two can keep a secret if one of them is dead.". It's from a song I heard. I'll keep the secret as long as I live and take it to the grave with me.", I nodded.

"... Thanks. Um...", Takamaki-Chan mumbled.

"Rika Koga. No need for formalities.", I extended my hand for her to shake.

"Alright. My name is Ann Takamaki. You can just call me Ann.", Ann smiled softly.

"Well, you should go now. It would be a waste of time to keep you here for no reason.", I said as I picked up my bag.

"Well... Bye now.", Ann waved and left me standing there with a slightly relieved look.

Hm... The strength of my bonds, huh? Could it be... No.

I pulled myself together and left the restaurant. As I kept walking, I saw the teleportation app on my phone got a notification. This time, there even had small writing that pointed to the location of where I was teleporting: Shujin Academy.

Well, I'm wearing my uniform, so I won't look out of place... Alright, time to go.

I pulled out my face mask and put it on. I pressed the app and got teleported to the school hallways. I saw Mishima-Kun and Shiho talking. I pulled out my tape recorder.

"Conversation between Yuuki Mishima and Shiho Suzui. April 14th, Shujin academy."

"Suzui... Are you leaving...?", Mishima mumbled.

"What is it...?", Shiho asked with a blank look.

"Mister Kamoshida's asking for you... He's in the PE faculty office.", at the mere mention of Kamoshida, Shiho shrunk a little.

"What did he say?", Shiho asked.

"... I don't know. Well... I have to go.", Mishima ran off, probably in regret by the look on his face. Shiho's phone rang, and she pulled it out and immediatly looked like she was going to burst into tears.

"Ann...", Shiho reluctently put her phone away and left.

Oh hell no...!

I began to run to the faculty office without a second thought.

No way I am letting Shiho go through this...!

I stopped in front of the faculty office and let myself in.

knocking is for wimps.

I found Kamoshida mumbling to himself. He turned around in his chair but was surprised to see me. He slowly began to smirk.

"Well, well. It seems you came here to actually apologize. I'm glad to see--", I cut him off by putting a finger to my lips and shushing him.

"Do you hear that? It sounds like... Yeah, it's me not giving a f*ck. I came here for one reason and one reason only. Leave the students alone or else you will know what "Hell on earth" looks like...", I seethed.

"And what would that look like?", Kamoshida asked with a ticked off look.

"Me.", I gave Kamoshida with a death glare.

"It's fine, Rika...", I turned to see Shiho at the door.

"Shiho, you don't have to--"

"No, it's alright... I'll be fine. You should leave... For your own sake.", Shiho silently gestured to Kamoshida as if to say "You better run".

"... Fine.", I walked past Shiho, but not before giving Kamoshida one last warning.

"I want to see you try hurting her..."

"And what will you do if I would?", Kamoshida asked with a condesending voice.

"You don't want to know what I can do... Your secrets are mine.", I left without another word.

--Later that evening--

I made my way to the cafe and entered with a sigh and an "I'm back.". Sojiro looked back at me with a raised eyebrow.

"... You're late. Where have you been?"

"With a new friend.", I said as I tugged at my hair a little.

"... By the way, you haven't been hanging around any bad influences, have you?", Sojiro interrogated.

"... Don't waste your time worrying about me. Worry about Akira.", I sighed.

"Huh. You sure have a way of talking. Just make sure you're careful who your friends are, if you don't want them ruining your life. *yawn* Look at the time. Seriously, think about how I feel having to stay up here waiting for you.", Sojiro sighed and got up from his chair. "Hey, I'm leaving. In the future, try not to come so damn late. Understood?"

"Got it. Good night.", I mumbled and went upstairs. Akira was lying on the bed in his PJs, scrolling through his phone. He looked up at me and smiled.

"Did everything go well?"

"More or less. Who are you talking to?", I asked.

"Ryuji. You should talk with us.", Akira mumbled.

I pulled out my phone and saw the messages.

-----------------------------------------------

Troublemaker Blondie💀: So, whaddya think about what Morgana told us?

Troublemaker Blondie💀: I dunno if I get all that stuff about stealing desires...

Troublemaker Blondie💀: And Kamoshida's gonna turn like, brain dead if we mess up, right?

Troublemaker Blondie💀: I mean, sure I'm pissed at him...

Troublemaker Blondie💀: But I dunno if I really wanna kill the guy...

🤓The ultimate bro🤓: Yeah, that's too much.😓

You: I agree. It would leave a bad taste in my mouth... But I still want to help Shiho and Ann.

You: I agree. It would leave a bad taste in my mouth... But I still want to help Shih<

You: I agree. It would leave a bad taste in my mouth... But I still want to help<

You: I agree. It would leave a bad taste in my mouth... But I still want to help the volleyball team and everyone else involved.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: For sure.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: I mean, maybe I'm just freaking out, but I don't wanna end up a murderer cause of this shit.

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Oh well...

Troublemaker Blondie💀: I'll try and see if I can come up with some other way tonight.

You: Goodnight.

--------------------------------

I say goodnight to Akira and head off to my room. I change into some my PJs and head for bed.

--April, 15th, 20XX, Morning--Shujin Academy-- Past

I was in the middle of class when I got a text from Ryuji.

-----------------------------------

Troublemaker Blondie💀: It's no use... I can't think of any other way...

🤓The ultimate bro🤓: Concentrate on class. 🤓

Troublemaker Blondie💀: I can't deal with that shit right now. I mean, what're we gonna do about Kamoshida?

Troublemaker Blondie💀:Do we just gotta go along with what that cat says?

Troublemaker Blondie💀: Urgh, that damn furball...

---------------------------------------------------

I put my phone away when I heard a commotion. A male student was standing near the window and pointing at something.

"Hey... What's that...!?"

"Enough! This is a classroom!", the teacher scolded.

Then, one of the girls said something that made my blood go cold.

"Wait... She's going to jump...!"

I got up from my seat and booked it to the window to see who it was, and I was traumatized... It was Shiho.

"Suzui...?", Mishima-Kun got up from his seat in surprise.

"Shiho...?", Ann muttered and bolted out of the classroom. I ran right after her and glimpsed Akira running right behind.

Ann looked out the window and saw Shiho stand at the edge of the roof. Shiho stood still for a moment... Then leaned forward, away from the roof to the edge. I looked away and began to push my way through the crowds to get to Shiho. I saw Ann and Akira run a few steps behind me. I bumped into Ryuji and he looked confused.

"H-Hey! What's goin'--"

"No time to explain! Follow me!", I grabbed Ryuji's hand and kept running. I pushed through everyone, not giving a damn about who fell or who yelled. I was able to get to the courtyard in front of the whole crowd. There lay Shiho, bruised to no tomorrow on a hospital gurny. The students had their phones out and taking pictures.

The f*ck is wrong with these idiots!?

Ann stood at the front, muttering Shiho's name with tears in her eyes. Akira and Ryuji stood right behind me, stunned. A paramedic stepped up to talk.

"We need someone to go with her... Are there any teachers around?"

"I-I'm not in charge of her class though...", one teacher panicked.

"We should leave this to Principal Kobayakawa...", another spoke.

"I'll go!", Ann shouted towards the paramedic.

"Please hurry!", the paramedic urged Ann to Shiho's barely conscious body. Ann softly spoke to her and Shiho muttered something before passing out. One name stood out from their talking.

Kamoshida... That bastard is a part of this! I told him not to hurt Shiho and he ignored my threat! I'll... I'll give him hell!

The paramedics, with Ann following close behind, left. Leaving the students in shock and gossiping to no end. No one tried to talk to me since I was pissed. I had my teeth clenched and was pulling my hair to the point that it was going to be ripped clean off. I turned to Ryuji and Akira.

"Volleyball team...", Ryuji muttered. He must have had the same idea that I had in mind; Kamoshida did something. I looked behind us to see Mishima-Kun looking heartbroken and stunned. He tripped over himself as he ran away from the scene. Akira and Ryuji saw too.

"That guy... Hey, wasn't Mishima acting weird?", Ryuji asked.

"He knows something. I KNOW he knows something, and I'll squeeze it out of him if I have to. Follow me, he went towards the exit.", I marched away.

We confronted Mishima-Kun and he finally spilled: He told us that Kamoshida had sexually assaulted Shiho. That sick bastard!