fortuna favet fatuis - fortunesrevolver

8/19/2019 Fortuna Favet Fatuis - FortunesRevolver

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Fortuna Favet Fatuis

by FortunesRevolver

Formally known as Fortune no Hikari. Life is full of second chances, but not allmistakes can be corrected. If you were given the opportunity to go back in time and

save the one you loved most from dying, would you take it? [SoujixNaoto - Full

summary inside.]

Rated: Fiction T - English - Mystery/Romance - Souji S./Yuu N., Naoto S. - Chapters:

17 - Words: 134,926 - Reviews: 426 - Favs: 423 - Follows: 452 - Updated: 7/13/2015

- Published: 7/6/2009 - id: 5196521

URL: https://www.fanfiction.net/s/5196521

https://www.fanfiction.net/s/5196521


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Table of Contents

Table of Contents

1. Prologue: The Journey Begins

2. Déjà vu?

3. Kindred Spirits

4. Zero Hour

5. Fog in Which Memories

6. Light of Fortune

7. The Magician's Chariot

8. Song of the Captured Bird

9. Positive Reinforcement

10. Golden Week

11. Return to Where We First Met

12. Longing of the Heart

13. Fear of Rejection

14. To Strengthen One's Bonds

15. Camping with Friends

16. Fleeting Feelings

17. Where Do We Go From Here?


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Prologue: The Journey Begins

Summary: Life is full of second chances, but not all mistakes can be corrected. If

ou were given the opportunity to go back in time and save the one you loved most

from dying, would you take it? Even if it meant that person lost their memories of

who you are and couldn't return the love that only your heart remembers?

Warning: Long but fairly important Author's Note ahead.

The idea for this project came to me one Saturday after having spent the entire day

(well, close to 24 hours) playing Persona 4 . Originally, I had considered not

following through with this, as I felt I was copying the idea of another writer on that

had written an AkiMina-New Game Plus version of Persona 3.

However, after looking back over the Persona 4 storyline and taking Souji'spersonality into account, I felt that I would be able to do this without copying what

she did. After all, the Persona 3 and 4 storylines were quite different and Souji and

Minato were hardly personality twins, so I was left with enough to play around with.

The story itself is somewhat slow at the start, but by chapter four is where things

really start to pick up quickly and I start adding in more of my own events and extra

scenes (though the 'zero chapter' and the other three before that have small twists to

them) will begin to start and the fun begins (at least for me).

Saki Konishi was one of the biggest debates I had about changing around. Souji

wouldn't needlessly let someone die, but I doubt he could get to the police station

without Dojima being told. I also had to take into account that if Souji suddenly

claimed he knew someone was going to die, a lot of questions he wouldn't be able to

answer would be asked. So, to any and all Saki fans; I do apologize for not saving

her. Yosuke would have lost a lot of his story and starting motivation for the entire

case and I'd end up with a mess.

The debate to keep King Mor—ahem—Mr. Mooroka alive shifted both ways, and I wasn't sure what to do with him. I considered simply allowing him to die, but then I

thought that would make Souji look bad. However, given that if Mooroka didn't die an

entire arc and crucial part of the storyline would disappear, I had to come up with

some form of a compromise. I can't say I'm perfectly happy with what I have, but it

was better than Souji standing still and saying, "Screw it. Let the man die."

As for Nanako… THAT debate took me the longest. In the end, I figured something

out that would work for the favor of this story, without making it look as if Souji didn't


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care about his cousin, which we all know he does.

This story is written assuming the BAD ENDING. The VERY bad ending, which ends

with Nanako dying (and staying dead) and Naoto calling Souji in a panic about the

Shadows and the last thing he hears… well… If no one knows what I am talking

about, then PM me and I'll provide the YouTube link so that this story makes more

sense to you. In fact, I'd recommend watching it… despite the eeriness of it.

Well, now that that is out of the way… Let us move on to what is more important.

Obviously, I don't own Persona 4. If I did, I doubt it would have been a story as

amazing as the one we all know and love. However, had I come across the means of

having some influence of the story, I can assure you, I would have attempted to

make SoujixNaoto cannon (like Minato and Aigis are... sort of.) I only own the

storyline for this, which I pray doesn't come out poorly (although the first few

chapters will follow the game fairly closely until I have more characters to work with.)

Once I reach the start of Kanji's arc, I'll REALLY be able to get into the storyline that I

had planned for this.

Standard warnings: language, violence, sexual themes, etc. Nothing you wouldn't

expect in a Persona game. This WILL be a SoujixNaoto story, so... yes. If you came

here for that, you go Glen Coco. If not, ah, well, that's what you eventually find?

I apologize to anyone who wanted otherwise, but I do hope you are all kind enough

to grace me with reading this story anyway… as it took up a good portion of my

summer to write. I also neglected studying for a few finals because of this story… butI passed them regardless, in case you wish to know.

I believe I've said everything that needs said. Let's begin, shall we?

Prologue: The Journey Begins

The soft sounds of a car motor running filled the ears of a young silver-haired

teenager. A black veil of darkness obscured his vision as he looked around,unnerved at the lack of sight. He was moving, that much he was sure of, but he was

equally sure that he'd just been standing on the platform of a train station,

surrounded by the smiling faces of friends.

He frowned as he pressed a hand to his eyes and tried to remember the faces

clearly, but only blurred masses of color surfaced to his mind. He shook his head, as

if willing the images to clarify and form correctly in his mind's eye, but the effect was

like throwing water on a chalk drawing. He sighed in frustration and closed his eyes,


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startling as he leaned back and felt his back hit something soft.

What on…? Opening his eyes, the silverette blinked rapidly, looking around his new

settings, clearly startled. He was in a car, a limo from the looks of it. The cushions of

the seats were a deep royal blue, glowing faintly in the overhead lighting. Glasses

sparkled next to half empty bottles of what appeared to be sake and wine on a table

a few feet in front of him on the right side of the vehicle. More bottles sat sealed ontwo shelves that ran up the length of the left side of the car with a small counter

above the shelves.

Looking out the window, the silverette's eyes widened faintly. Where he had

expected scenery of some form, he only saw a swirling mist of silver and purple. The

mist appeared to be moving past the window, as if the limo, which was obviously in

motion, was moving through it.

He shifted his gaze as something moved from the corner of his eyes, finally noticing

the presence of the other two in the car. A woman with shoulder length pale blonde

hair, held back with a black headband, sat with her head bowed and eyes closed.

Next to her, an elderly gentleman with snow white hair that fell down to his shoulders

around his head, leaving the top bald, sat with his white-gloved hands clasped tightly

together in front of his mouth, nearly completely hidden by a nose that was of an

inhuman size. Like the female, his eyes were shut and his head bowed downward.

The car jumped as it hit a bump, and as if the jolt worked as a spark of life, the two

moved. First the female; her head straightened and her eyes opened, revealing pale

golden orbs. The elderly gentleman moved shortly after she did, lifting his head

slowly, closed eyes opening to allow beady-black bloodshot irises to meet the

silverette's pale ones. The man grinned, sending an unpleasant shiver down the

teen's spine as he stared, unable to pull his gaze away.

"Welcome…" the snow-haired man said in silky voice that was both eerie and

familiar at the same time. "…to the Velvet Room."

The silverette blinked, his mouth hanging slightly open as he took in the appearance

of the bizarre-looking man. His eyes darted momentarily toward the blonde againbefore returning his gaze to the male. Have I… meet them before? What is…? This

room… I know it, I'm sure of it. I've been here before but… When?

"Ah…" the old man chuckled. "It seems we have a guest with a very interesting

destiny. My name is Igor. I am delighted to see you again, young contractor."

The teen frowned, tilting his head in confusion. How did the man know who he was?

Another blurred image flickered before his eyes, the colors matching those of the


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sharp sight before him. Again…? Then... I do know him? But when did I…?

"This place exists between dream and reality, mind and matter… It is a room that

only those bound by a 'contract' may enter… It is very possible that such a fate will

once again meet you in the near future." The man chuckled again, leaning forward in

his seat with interest. "Now then… Why don't you introduce yourself…?"

"…You seem to know who I am already. Wouldn't that mean you already know my

name, ah… Igor-san?"

Igor chuckled heartily, nodding slowly.

"My, my… It seems you haven't lost any of your wit or charm in the days that have

passed, young Souji Seta. Rather, I should say the days that have gone back."

"Master? Do you… know why this boy was sent here again? Can time really repeat

itself like this?"

The old man was silent as he clasped his hands together again, looking at Souji

intently. His black eyes moved up and down the silverette, as if carefully taking in the

boy's appearance. He smiled faintly and shrugged, looking both amused and excited

at the same time.

"Well now, be the answer yes or no, it seems our guest has returned to us and not a

day older then the first time he arrived here. Ehehehe… Who knows what sort of

wonders this will bring… Although it seems our young contractor has lost hismemories of what has happened… Or shall I say, they've been lost in the fog."

Souji blinked, something in the back of his mind sparking at the word 'fog', but

nothing would form fully in his head. Pushing the thought back for later, he leaned

back in his seat quietly and waited for Igor to continue.

"Well now, let's take a look into your future, shall we?" Igor's smile grew as he waved

his hand over the small circular table in front of him once, a deck of glowing blue

tarot cards appearing in the center. Several flew off the top of the deck and landedface down in a half-circle around the deck with a second wave. "Do you believe in

fortune telling? Each reading is done with the same cards, yet the result is always

different. Life itself follows the same principles, doesn't it?"

"…Yeah, strange that." Souji muttered, staring at the facedown cards. Why can't I

remember where I've seen all this before…? Those cards… The first one was…

Tower, upright.


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Reaching for the first card, Igor turned it over, giving the card a look of interest

before grinning up at Souji and speaking. "Hm… The Tower, in the upright position

represents the near future; it seems a terrible catastrophe is imminent."

Yet he doesn't look upset or worried about this at all… Souji thought dully, fighting

the urge to shake his head. Is everything a game to this guy? Anyway… the next

should be the… Moon?

"The card indicating the future beyond that is…" The snow-haired man reached for

the second card and flipped it over, smiling. "The Moon, in the upright position."

Souji blinked, looking startled as he stared at the cards. I was… right? But how? I've

never been in this room, let alone seen those cards before. So why does this all look

so…!?

"This card represents 'hesitation' and 'mystery'… Very interesting indeed. It seems

you will encounter a misfortune at your destination and a mystery will be imposedupon you once more."

Once more… Again… He keeps speaking as if this is the past. He knows

something… but he isn't going to tell me what it is. Frustration danced in Souji's eyes

as he stared at the cards, trying to piece together the fogged memories in his mind,

but it was like trying to put together the pieces of two separate puzzles when blind.

"In the coming days, you will enter into a contract of some sort, after which you will

return here. I'm sure you've already figured this out, but the coming year will beimportant yet again in your destiny. If the mystery remains unsolved… your future

may be forever lost. My duty is to provide assistance for our guests to ensure that

this does not happen."

He's doing a fine job… Souji thought bitterly. I don't even think I've boarded the train

et and I'm already as lost as confused as a guy can get…

Sighing softly, Souji returned his attention to Igor as the elder gentleman waved his

hands over the cards again, making them disappear. He gestured to the woman nextto him, smiling brightly.

"Ah! I have neglected to introduce my assistant to you. This is Margaret. She is a

resident of this place, like myself."

"My name is Margaret. I am here to accompany you through your journey." The

female spoke up, turning her attention to Souji with a blank look upon her delicate

features.


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"Margaret…" Souji repeated with a polite nod. Margaret… Margaret… I know the

name. But I didn't know anyone named Margaret at my previous schools. Then… I

must know her as well.

"We shall attend to the details another time," Igor chuckled, sensing Souji's

confusion and frustration with the situation. He waved his hand through the air, and

Souji's vision suddenly began to blur, making the silverette panic slightly. "Until then,farewell..."

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"I'm tired of diets and going to the gym! Good thing there's something even I can

handle!" A giggle followed the peppy female voice, the commercial causing Souji to

erk violently from his thoughts. He blinked slowly, his vision clearing and revealing

the floor of a train station.

" And we're back with some juicy news! The Mayumi Yamano scandal. When wefirst…" The voice of the announcer was drowned out as people standing around the

television-covered wall began speaking to one another about the current news

broadcast. Behind Souji, two males were speaking rather loudly about the case,

talking about the ones involved in a negative light.

Mayumi Yamano… She's a reporter, right? That name… where have I heard it? It

wasn't the TV, it was… it was…

"Hey, kid, are you alright?" Souji blinked and turned, giving the man next to him aquestioning glance.

"I… beg your pardon?"

"Are you alright? You really zoned out for a minute there. I thought you were gonna

fall forward onto the tracks. If you're sick, I can go alert the first-aid station."

"Ah… N-no. I'm alright. I just… have a lot on my mind, that's all. Thanks for your

concern."

"…If you're sure, kid. The subway will be here soon. Take it easy, okay?"

"Y-yeah. Thank you, goodbye." Souji shook his head nervously as the man walked

off, trying to push away the thoughts that were shoving at the corners of his mind.

Was it... all a dream?

A loud squeal of wheels announced the arrival of the subway car. The soft hiss of the


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breaks followed by a loud beeping signaled that the doors had opened. Souji was

pushed forward as people began to board and he found himself unable to obtain a

seat as more people pushed inside. He grabbed onto one of the hanging handles as

the car began to move and stared dully out the window in front of him, trying to find

something to distract himself from reminders of the dark room.

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nother year, another school… At least the uniforms for this one are more

comfortable. I hated having to wear a tie everyday with the old suit uniforms. A silent,

dry laugh escaped the silverette's lips as he stared dully out the window of the fast-

moving subway car. They all sounded so upset when the teacher announced I had to

leave… but not a single one of them knew much of anything about me beyond my

name and that I'd come from Tokyo originally. Heh… It isn't as if my parents know

much more than they do. I feel like a rag-doll, tossed into a new pair of arms every

ear. He sighed softly, leaning back in his chair.

"I suppose it'll be nice to be in a small town this time, rather than a large city. That

means less people…" And less people means fewer strings to cut when I leave

again. I suppose I'll have to be careful around my Uncle and cousin, but I guess if I

can nail myself a small job, that'll solve that problem. They'll just think… I'm shy or

something.

Something vibrated in Souji's pocket, pulling him back down to the real world. His

hand moved silently into his jacket and produced a black, newly released model of

cell-phone. The mini-screen on the front held a picture of an envelope with the

number '1' shining brightly in black at the center. He flipped open the phone, briefly

reading over the name of the sender.

"Dojima…? That's my Uncle..."

'Meet us outside Yasoinaba Station at 4pm.'

"…Inaba, huh? The countryside… I wonder what it'll be like."

"We will arrival at the Yasogami terminal in a few minutes," a pensive voice

announced over the train's PA system. "Passengers headed for Inaba City and

Yasoinaba station, please move to the other side of the platform."

That's me… Souji thought as he stood up, reaching for his duffle-bag in the

overhead storage rack.

Following the rest of the passengers, Souji slipped off the train with ease and made


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his way across the cement boarding station and boarded the next train, noting that

very few people followed him aboard the train. Guess the countryside isn't that

popular. Go figure.

Finding a seat in a car alone, Souji tossed his duffle into the overhead rack again

and sat down, draping his arm lazily over the armrest. He sighed heavily, leaning

forward faintly in his seat to get a better view of the world outside. Sometimes, Iwonder what would happen if I just didn't get off the train… Would anyone notice?

Would anyone care? If I could just keep riding forever…

Souji couldn't help but take note of how calming everything looked as the cities

began less and less complicated. The buildings were becoming more spread apart

and nature slowly filling the gaps between them. The scenery disappeared as the

train went into a tunnel, leaving Souji with only the light of the white florescent

headlamps above him.

The silver eyes never left the dark shadows outside the train and he suddenly felt

himself growing tired. His eyes flickered shut briefly, his shoulders relaxing as his

retinas were spared the harsh light of the lamps. The darkness behind his eyelid

quickly disappeared as staticky, yet sharp images flashed before his mind. A woman

dressed in blue with pale blonde hair and an old gentleman with white gloves, snowy

hair, and a large nose. The images looked as if they'd come from a TV channel with

poor signal and yet…

His eyes snapped open again, widening as he stared at the empty seat in front of

him, the deep blue material of the seat giving him an eerie reminder of the 'room'

he'd been sitting in before even boarding the subway.

"W-what the hell…?" he muttered, feeling a bead of sweat roll down his cheek.

"What on earth was-?"

The train-car was suddenly filled with natural light again and the few remaining

buildings that had been something of a small city were gone. Trees and dirt had

replaced the buildings and roads, surrounded by the lively green grass that almost

looked as if it were a brilliant orange under the glow of the setting sun.

The car began to shake slightly as it passed over a white marble bridge, and Souji

felt the pace he was traveling at slow. Guess I'm here…

He stood up and grabbed his duffle, glancing briefly at his leather wristwatch. Right

on time… He thought as the train came to a stop and the doors opened. Four-o-

clock exactly..


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"Yasoinaba. Yasoinaba." A man announced over the PA as he stepped off the train,

glancing around slowly.

The station was clean and well kept, but empty. Its older look implied that not many

people left or entered the area, which didn't surprise the silverette at all.

Shouldering his duffle-bag, he took in a deep breath before exhaling slowly,

preparing himself for yet another year of disappointment.

Get ready, Souji. Just take the first step and get over. What's one more year? Live

and move on. You'll be leaving before you know it and be tossed into another box.

fter all… you're just a rag-doll, waiting to be thrown into someone else's toy box for

a year.

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Beta's Note: Despite her misgivings, Naoto (FortunesRevolver) has graciouslyallowed me (Chie, if you need a name to call me by) a Beta's Note. I'll keep it short.

All I really want to say is… €URO. Thank you, and good night.

Author's Note: Chie (ToastedWhiskers), after reading your obviously long-thought

out Beta's note, I have carefully pieced together a response for you.

The steak is a lie, and I ate yours. Please look forward to the next chapter, everyone.

Chie: Naoto, after reading your lies (the steak is never a lie), I have decided to grace

you with a response.California rolls. I have them. I am eating them. They are yummy.

Please ignore my idiocy and enjoy the next chapter, all.

Naoto: Chie… I wish many empty Yosuke-wallets upon you.

Chie: Nonsense, I use his money to buy you sushi.

Naoto: That is of no threat… I have Senpai's wallet.

~Dojima Residence~

Souji: -sneezes-


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Déjà vu?

I really didn't think I'd end up updating this soon... I was surprised to wake up this

morning and find my inbox full of reviews and notices that people had set this story

for update alerts. I must admit, I'm not complaining... it really pleases me to know

that so many people are interested in seeing where this goes.

Before I go any further, I must address a subject that many people have touched

upon. While I agree with some of the ideas that people have given me regarding

Saki Konishi, unfortunately, Souji does not gain his memories back until after Saki's

death, therefore he doesn't remember her death until it's too late. Had he gotten his

memories back sooner, I would have come up with something to do with her, but as

the original plan came out differently and I was able to write a much better story from

there, I left her dead...

I'm still using the same investigation team, but I'll be tweaking certain events, as wellas removing some and adding more-hopefully in a way that you'll all enjoy.

I must say, however, I find it slightly amusing that people were protesting Saki's

unsaved death, but no one cared if Mr. Morooka died or not-though I can understand

why.

Chapter One: Déjà vu?

Souji walked out of the main station, glancing around the main roads that lead

towards the town. He frowned slightly and glanced at his watch; it was just a few

minutes after four. Are they late…?

"Hey! Over here!"

The silverette turned as a male's voice called out. He made his way down the stairs

quickly and approached a man who looked to be in is early thirties, dressed in a gray

shirt, dark red tie and dark brown slacks. Behind him, a young girl with brunette hair

tied up with pink ribbons in pigtails stood, her right hand gripping the man's shirt

tightly. Her long-sleeved dress was white from the chest up, brown around the waist

and pink at the skirt. Short white socks rose several inches from her ankles and pink

shoes, finishing off the adorable girlish look.

The man held out his hand as Souji approached, a friendly smile showing off white

teeth. His grip was firm, the silverette noted as they shook hands. The man's smile

grew as they broke apart and he began to speak again. "Well, you're much more


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handsome in person than in your photo. Welcome to Inaba, I hope your trip out here was alright. I'm Ryotaro Dojima, I'll be looking after you." The man paused, tilting his

head to the head slightly. "Well, let's see… I'm your mother's younger brother and…

that's all, really."

Dojima… The name played over in Souji's mind several times. Dojima… Where do I

know the name? I know my mother mentioned him on occasion, but the last time hesaw me I was a baby, right? How could I remember a face from so long ago?

"It's good to see you again." Souji spoke without thinking, "I hope you've been well."

Dojima laughed again, the grin reforming on his face. "So you remember me? The

last time I saw you, I was changing your diaper. Haha, I hope you don't mind me

saying, but I'm glad we're meeting now that you're older. You were a cute kid, very

sweet… but no one has a fun time changing diapers."

Souji offered the older man a small smile and a nod, his face completely masking thethoughts rushing through his mind. He's friendly, I'll give him that. Still, his smile… I

know that smile. One that used to look at me from behind a newspaper… Dojima

and… that little girl… her name was…

Reaching behind him, Dojima pushed the small girl forward gently, urging her to

greet Souji. "This is my daughter... Come on now, Nanako. Introduce yourself to your

cousin."

Nanako stepped forward, looking up at Souji nervously. Her eyes wouldn't meet hisface, opting to look at his shoulder instead. She swayed back and forth on the balls

of her feel, a dark blush spreading across her cheeks as she muttered a quiet, '…'lo,'

before darting behind her father again.

"Huh?" Dojima chuckled, "What're you so shy for? He isn't going to bite you."

Nanako growled softly in protest, the blush darkening as she raised a tiny fist,

striking Dojima in the small of the back.

"Ow! Ahaha…" Ryotaro laughed lightly as he shook his head. "A-anyway… Let's get

going. My car is just over here… Follow me."

Souji followed his relatives to the car, dropping his belongings into the trunk when

Dojima opened it for him before slipping inside. The ride into town was quiet, few

words were exchanged between the three of them, yet the atmosphere hadn't gotten

awkward at any point.


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"This is the Central Shopping District," Dojima explained as turned down a long

stretch of paved road, pulling into a gas station at the south end. "All sorts of shops

around here and good food too, it's usually around here or the local supermarket that

most kids your age hang out after school."

The ignition died as Dojima pulled the keys from the car and stepped out, stretching

his back and mumbling under his breath. An attendant from the station ran towardthe car, a wide grin spread across their pale face as she spoke up in a deep, faintly

feminine voice.

"Hi! Welcome to Moel!"

Dojima nodded to the attendant before turning to Nanako, offering the girl a

concerned glance. "Can you get to the bathroom by yourself?"

Nanako nodded and walked around the car slowly, glancing back and forth as she

attempted to locate the bathroom.

"It's in the back to your left." The attendant piped up helpfully, still grinning. "Do you

know which way is left? The side you don't hold your chopsticks in."

"I know!" Nanako pouted, looking hurt. "Geez…" She looked at her father once

before turning and running toward the station.

Shifting uncomfortably in his seat, Souji opened his door and stepped out of the car,

pleased to be on his legs again. My entire body is sore…

"Are you taking a trip?" The Moel worker asked, glancing at Souji in curiosity.

"No," Dojima shook his head. "We just went to pick him up. He'll be staying with us

for a while, he just moved in from the big city."

"The city, huh…?" The attendant's grin faded as they stared at Souji, their head tilted

faintly in thought.

"Fill up my car while you're at it. Regular."

The attendant jumped and turned to Dojima, saluting him. "Right away, Sir!"

Dojima glanced off into the distance, a thoughtful look on his face.

"I guess now is a good as time as any for a smoke…" he muttered as he wondered

off to the edge of the sidewalk.


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He smokes? Souji frowned, watching as Dojima produced a small white box and a

lighter. Should he really have a habit like that when he's got a kid? At least he has

the sense not to light up over here or near Nanako…

"So, you're a teenager?"

Souji turned to the attendant, nodding silently.

"Does it surprise a city-boy like you that there's so little to do around here?" The

attendant was grinning again. "It gets boring pretty fast since there's almost nothing

to do around here. You'll either be hanging out with friends or working part-time jobs.

It's all there is to keep people busy around here. We are looking for some part time

help around here, you know. Give it some thought if you get bored, okay? If you're a

student, I'm sure no one around here will mind."

The Moel worker held out their hand, the odd grin having lost none of its power. Souj

glanced down at the attendant's hand hesitantly. A chill ran up his spine, andsomething about the friendly gesture suddenly seemed deadly. He extended his own

hand slowly, taking the offered handshake, repressing a shudder as what felt like an

electric shock ran up his arm.

"Oh…" the attendant pulled away, looking worried. "I should get back to work."

Silver eyes followed the attendant's slender figure before approaching footsteps

pulled him back from his thoughts. Souji turned, blinking as he realized Nanako was

staring at him as she attempted to hide herself behind the car's hood. He opened hismouth to speak, when a sudden wave of nausea slammed into him at full force.

He gagged, a hand flying to his forehead as he shut his eyes tightly. The electric

tingling feeling had spread to his entire body and it felt like a small fire had been lit in

his veins. He growled softly as a dull throbbing sensation started in his head,

causing his vision to blur. Bile rose in his throat and he gulped, images beginning to

flash across his mind once more, but they were too many of them too quickly for his

mind to process what it had seen.

"…Are you okay?"

All at once, everything seemed to stop. The throbbing faded and the electric tingle

stopped. The dull burning feeling in his throat was quickly disappearing and he was

left with only the feeling of dizziness as he fought to keep upright.

"…Did you get carsick? You don't look so good."


16/333

Souji looked down, blinking rapidly to clear his blurred vision. Nanako's voice

seemed far away, her words slowly registering themselves in his mind. He shook his

head slowly, smiling faintly as Nanako glanced up at him, looking worried.

"I'm alright, Nanako. Let's get back in the car, your dad will be back soon."

"Oh… okay." Nanako nodded and ran around to the other side, climbing back into

her seat.

What… the hell was that? Souji thought as he shut his door, pressing his head

against the glass as it began to throb again. Carsick? Is that all? I do feel dizzy but…

Those other feelings… That couldn't have been from car sickness, could it? No…

That's definitely not it. It's something else, I'm sure of it. That attendant… Why do I

feel as if I've met them before? It's just like with Igor. Familiar, yet I can't seem to

remember where it is that—

"We're here."

Souji jumped and jerked upward, staring out his window in shock.

"Wh—huh?"

"We're here…?" Doijima repeated, looking confused. "Did you fall asleep? This is our

house… You'll be staying here for the year."

"O-oh. Right, sorry, I… ah… Just got lost in thought." Souji climbed out of the car,grabbing his duffle bag from the trunk and followed Dojima and Nanako around to

the front.

The house was traditionally styled, and a deep chocolate brown in color. Standing

two stories tall, it looked to be made of wood, but upon brushing his hand over one

of the outer walls, the smooth texture implied that it was made of something else.

The room was made of clay tiling, its color as dark as the house it sat on. It looked

normal enough, but Souji couldn't help but notice the somewhat distant feeling the

house held.

Does it matter what it feels like? Souji thought as he followed his relatives through

the front door. It's just a house, not a home. Nothing more than a roof over my

head… Just another toy box I've been thrown in for the year.

Nanako began to set the table the moment they walked into the door. Dojima took

Souji's bag upstairs with a small grin and told him to have a seat. Souji hesitated—

he'd been sitting down all day, but he didn't trust his legs to hold him much longer as


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his head throbbed violently again.

The teen walked into the kitchen, taking the armful of drinks Nanako was attempting

to balance in her arms and took them to the table. He slowly lowered himself cross

legged onto one of the royal purple cushions and sighed, shutting his eyes as he felt

another sharp throb through his skull. What… the hell is going on?

"Are you two ready to eat?"

Souji jumped, pulled from his thoughts as he glanced at Dojima watching as the

older gentleman sat down, awed at the sudden appearance of food at the table.

When did…? He shook his head, pushing the thoughts away. They didn't matter

anyway.

"So… Your mom and dad are busy as always… They're working overseas now,

aren't they?"

Souji nodded silently, nibbling at the food on his plate as he waited for Dojima to

continue.

"Must be rough… having to move around constantly because of your parents and to

be stuck here in a place like Inaba no less. It's just Nanako and me here, so it'll be

nice to have someone else around. There isn't much, but as long as you're here,

you're part of the family. Make yourself at home."

The silverette smiled faintly, nodding. "Thank you for your kindness…"

Dojima laughed warmly, shaking his head. "Hey now, there's no need to be formal

here. I'm a cop, but I'm still your uncle. Be as casual as you like, no one is going to

get offended… Well then, let's eat."

The meal had been fairly quiet. Dojima and Nanako asked Souji simple questions

about himself, and answered his about the town. As Souji finished the last bites of

his meal, a shrill beeping filled the room and his uncle cursed softly.

"Ugh… Who the hell is calling at this hour?" Producing a phone, he pressed the

receiver to his ear, forcing a professional tone. "…Dojima speaking." He stood up

and walked away from the table, keeping his back to Souji and Nanako.

"…Is this normal?" Souji asked quietly, noting the depressed look in Nanako's eyes.

The young brunette nodded, sighing softly as she stood up, waiting for her father to

finish.


18/333

"I see… So where is it? …Fine. I'm on my way…" Turning around, Dojima gave the

two an apologetic look, pocketing his phone. "I don't know how late I'll be, so don't

wait up. Nanako, you help him out, okay?"

Nanako nodded again, her shoulders slumping slightly as her father walked toward

the door. The sound of rain filled the house as the door was opened and Dojima's

face appeared in the entryway again.

"Nanako, it's raining out. What did you do with the laundry?"

"I already brought it in."

"Ah… okay. Thanks. I'm off!"

Souji stared at Nanako, his eyes widening in shock. Laundry? Isn't… isn't she six? I

didn't even do my own laundry at six. Although… I did cook almost all my own meals

at her age.

"—for this week. Now let's…" The teen jumped, not realizing Nanako had turned the

TV on. He glanced at the screen, where a woman in her mid-twenties in a red suit

was giving a weather report.

"—storm clouds moving in from the west, expect rain throughout the day tomorrow in

most areas."

Nanako's eyes lingered on the television for a moment before returning to her meal,an awkward silence hanging over the room. Souji shifted uncomfortably in his seat,

not liking the thick atmosphere between them. She's only six… Would it really hurt

that much to be friendly? Even if I'm only here for a year… she is my cousin.

"It must be tough."

"Huh?" The brunette looked up, confused. She tilted her head in question, a small

frown tugging at her small lips.

"It… must be tough." Souji repeated, "Not having your dad around a lot. It seems like

you do a lot of the housework around here."

Nanako nodded. "Yeah… I can do laundry, and cook eggs and toast… But dad isn't

always gone. He helps me clean the house sometimes when he's home."

"I see…"

The TV screen flickered before changing from the weather woman to a man in a suit


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behind a desk. He cleared his throat and shuffled his papers before speaking. "And

now for the local news. City council man Taro Namatame is under fire for an alleged

relationship with a female reporter. His wife, enka ballad sensation Misuzu Hiragi,

revealed to this station that she will likely pursue damages."

Souji raised an eyebrow, absently sipping at his drink as he watched the pictures

that flashed across the screen as the reporter spoke. That case again…? That's theone I saw on TV when I was at the station. I don't understand why the media has to

make such a big deal out of it. So the man cheated on his wife… It happens all the

time—as sick as that is. They're following it like he committed murder. Is their love

life really any of our business?

"This is boring…" Nanako muttered, reaching for the remote again.

"At Junes, everyday is Customer Appreciation Day. Come see for yourself and get in

touch with our products! Every day's great at your Junes!"

Souji froze, his cup tilted upward as liquid drained into his mouth, causing the

silverette to choke. Images flashed before his eyes again, quick and faint clips of a

place he'd never been to before—a food court with white tables. He was sitting at

one, surrounded by a group of faceless people who looked to be close to his age, all

laughing together with him. W-what the hell!?

"Every day's great at your Junes!" Nanako sang happily from the other side of the

table, causing Souji to look over at her. He smiled weakly, watching the young

brunette sway left and right in rhythm as she hummed the stores jingle over and overagain.

Standing up, Souji gathered his dishes and deposited them into the kitchen sink. He

sighed, rubbing his forehead as he tried to rid himself of the headache that had yet

to go away. Dubbing his efforts useless, he walked toward the stairs, pausing as he

touched the railing.

"Nanako? I'm going to head upstairs, alright? I'll probably head to bed soon as

well…"

"Oh… okay." Nanako nodded, waving at Souji. "Goodnight… Your door is the first

one on the right, next to the bathroom."

"Right, thanks. Goodnight, Nanako."

Making his way up the stairs, Souji quickly located his room and slipped inside,

leaning against the door as he shut it behind himself. Maybe it's the change in


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environment? I'm exhausted… He glanced around, groaning faintly as he realized he

would have to unpack all the boxes sitting in stacks around the room.

"…I'll worry about it tomorrow. I just want to go to sleep. Thank god the futon is

already set up." I guess Dojima knows what it's like to travel.

Fishing around in his duffle, Souji produced his pajamas and spare uniform. The

uniform was tossed onto the arm of the couch as the one he was currently wearing

was discarded to the back of the chair sitting at his desk. He pulled on his pajamas

and turned off the light, quickly climbing into the warm futon and sighing in content.

"I guess… This is where I'll be living for the next year." School starts tomorrow as

well… Normally I have at least a day to settle before I have to hit the books. "I

wonder—" he yawned, "—if everything will work out alright…"

-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-

Souji groaned softly, trying to move his limbs. His entire body felt numb, leaving him

dazed and confused as he took in his surroundings. Everywhere he turned there was

a thick, white fog that obscured his vision, leaving his range of sight only a few

inches away from his face. He blinked, standing up slowly as the numbness faded

from his body and glanced around once more.

What on earth…? This is… fog? He extended a hand forward, as if to grab at the

white substance around him. The air was thick, but dry. It felt cool and he shivered

under the fabric of his uniform. When did I…? Is this a dream? It must be. I changed out of my uniform and… I was in bed, right?

He lowered his hand, resting it casually on his hip as he looked at the ground,

tapping his foot against the strange brick-like road below his feet. A dull clapping

sound echoed around him, the sound fading slowly into the white mist. He raised an

eyebrow and glanced around again. From what he could tell, the road only led

forward and the fog was far too thick to try venturing in any other direction.

"…I guess I'm stuck with going forward."

The silverette stepped forward, breaking into a slow run as he followed the dim

outline of the red path. His shoes clicked loudly against the ground, sounding like the

soft rhythm of a ticking clock. He quickened his pace, skidding across the red

surface as the road suddenly turned. He stumbled, but caught himself before he fell,

carefully turning down the curve and proceeding forward.

"...Back again? Didn't you learn the first time how futile your efforts are? Well... no


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matter. It will end the same way as before."

Souji jerked violently, stopping abruptly and looking around. W-what the-? Is

someone here? And… Wait, did they say… "again"? The teen's breath was coming

out in low, sharp gasps. He turned around fully, slowly taking everything in, but the

fog rendered his observations useless.

A loud chuckle filled the air. "Do you seek the truth…?"

"Damn… I can't see anything with this fog." Straining his ears, Souji shut his eyes

and listened carefully for any signs of movement, but he could hear was the

pounding of blood in his ears and his own breath.

With a small growl of aggravation, he started forward again at a sprint, determined to

find where the voice was coming from.

"Where is—"

"If it's the truth you desire, come and find me…"

Souji froze, his eyes wide as he stared at the path in front of him. The voice was just

ahead, he could hear it clearly now. The speaker couldn't be more than a few yards

away. Souji gulped and stepped forward hesitantly, a chill running down his spine. …

Is my body trying to warn me to turn back? No… It doesn't matter. Warning or not… I

want to find that voice.

Standing up straight, the teen sprinted down the road again, nearly colliding with a

crimson and black wall that suddenly appeared in front of him through the fog. He

stood stock-still, his face inches away from the walls surface. His eyebrows knit

together in frustration as he looked around, confused at the sudden end in road.

"How am I…?" he trailed off, staring at the wall. "Could it be that this is… a door?"

He reached out, pressing his palm against the cool surface in front of him. It vibrated

and he immediately moved back, watching as the wall merged and collapsed withinitself, folding out and forming a small pathway between the road Souji currently

stood on and the one ahead.

"…Just a few more steps." He murmured, moving forward, almost as if in a trance.

"It's just ahead…"

The silverette took another step forward and the fog shifted, swirling around him until

his vision was completely obscured by white. He gasped sharply and raised a hand


22/333

to block his eyes, but his hands were already wrapped around something cool. He

didn't remember having anything with him when he came in, and he looked down.

"A… sword?" He gaped at the blade in his hands, shaking his head as if expected

the sword to suddenly fade out and leave him with only the fog.

The weapon was heavy, but light enough that he was confident he could move

around with it. It was a basic-style katana with a long silver blade that extended

almost three feet. The handle was dark, wrapped in a thin fabric designed for helping

the user keep a strong grip around the hilt. Movement in the corner of his eye alerted

the teen that someone else was there with him, and he looked up, gasping silently

as he stared at a faded figure standing several feet in front of him.

"So… You are the one pursuing me, yet again…" the voice was clearer now, easy to

hear. It didn't echo as it did before, but the tone of the voice was completely blank.

Not high, but not deep, leaving it impossible to determine a gender or even an age

from it. It was almost as if, whoever it was, was speaking inside his mind, rather than

out loud.

Souji opened his mouth to speak, to argue that he didn't even know who this person

was and demand to know why he would be pursing them, but his throat seemed to

tighten each time he tried and his voice failed to work.

"Hmhmhm… Try all you like…"

Souji tensed, his body sending him messages he didn't understand. It was as if itknew what to do, while his mind didn't. He closed his eyes, relaxing his tense

muscles before opening them again, allowing his body to do as it pleased.

He darted forward, his legs carrying him toward the figure as his arms raised the

blade, bringing it down hard upon the figure. He jumped back, frowning as realized

his blade had done nothing.

"Hmmm… It seems that you can see a little, despite the fog…"

Obviously not enough… Souji thought bitterly, glaring at the unknown being in front

of him.

Something stirred in the back of his mind and he relaxed again, a black glowing card

appearing in front of him. His eyes narrowed and he reached for the card, crushing it

in his hand. Something exploded in the back of his mind and a dark figure darted

forward from somewhere behind him, raising an arm in the air as a bolt of lightning

came down on the figure, but again, nothing happened.


23/333

"I see…" the figure paused, appearing to tilt its head in curiosity. "Indeed, you truly

do possess an interesting quality…"

Souji growled again in frustration and the card appeared a second time. This time

the dark figure flew forward, slamming into the figure head-on, but despite the sound

that indicated an obvious collision, it appeared as if the damage had been little to

none.

"But… you will not catch me so easily…" the figure continued to speak, as if being

attacked meant absolutely nothing, making the teen growl again. They didn't see him

as a threat at all. "If what you seek is the 'truth' then your search will be even

harder…"

Souji opened his mouth to protest, to ask for some form of an explanation, but again,

his voice refused to work for him. His hands tightened around the blade's handle as

the figure glowed, a soft hissing filling the air as thick fog seemed to pour forth from

the being in front of him.

The teen took a step back, shutting his eyes reflexively and regretting it the moment

they opened again. The fog had more than doubled and now it was nearly

impossible to make out his hands. Great, just… great.

"Everyone sees what they want to... And the fog only deepens."

What on earth is this thing talking about!? He tensed and stepped forward slowly,

spinning the swords grip in his hands slowly. I can't see anything… It's gotten harder to hear too. So where...?

He lunged sideways, swinging his sword sharply as he noticed a shadow moving

slowly to his left. The blade sliced through the fog, connecting only with air as a soft

chuckle filled the area. He turned and slashed again, blindly swinging his sword

before the voice spoke again, making the silverette freeze.

"Will we meet again…? Hmhmhm… I look forward to it." The voice seemed to fade

as it spoke, moving farther and farther away.

"W-wait! Hey! Don't run away from… me…" Souji swayed dangerously as his vision

swam before him. He stumbled forward, collapsing down to one knee as he clutched

his head. "Wh-what is… going on?"

He felt himself falling sideways, his balance toppling as his consciousness began to

disperse, and everything about this situation seemed familiar somehow.


24/333

Except for the scream…

The loud, penetrating scream of anguish and horror that filled his ears, suffocated

his lungs, and chilled his very soul.

A woman's scream.

A woman who was precious to him—close to his heart.

Souji awoke with a loud yell, drenched in cold sweat, his eyes wide and unfocused.

He felt himself shaking uncontrollably, and he looked down at his quivering hands

automatically, unable to stop himself from weeping. Pain surged through him to his

core, stemming from an intense personal loss that he couldn't seem to place.

That scream… He grabbed his head, doubled over as he pulled his knees up to his

chest, his breathing sharp and uneven. Who was she…? W-why did she…? Why…

can't I remember anything?

Souji gulped, fumbling next to the futon for his duffle bag. His hand hit the fabric and

he dug inside, producing an unopened water bottle. He sipped the warm water

shakily, nearly spilling the bottles entire contents down his front as he tried to control

his trembling hands.

Wh-What's happening to me...?

I feel the need to mention that "All the Way" (opening theme of "Kino no Tabi/Kino's

Journey") has just started playing on my Persona 3 themed WinAmp player... It's

such a good song and my mood has increased drastically.

Ah, and for those who know the anime... does anyone else think Naoto and Kino

would get along unnaturally well? Chie, Guy and I have a theory those two could

take over the world if they teamed up. One city, three nights at a time... and no one

could stop them.

And to Kamina, I'm pleased to know the sarcasm between Chie and myself was

amusing. I was hoping someone might comment on that.


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Kindred Spirits

I'm not going to lie to all of you... this chapter is fairly dull. It's the lead-up chapter to

the first visit inside the TV and pretty much the top of the first small hill of this story.

Things start to actually get good starting with chapter three-I promise you that. So I

apologize in advance for the dull chapter that follows but it really will get better... I'll

actually have room to work with starting with the next chapter.

Chapter Two: Kindred Spirits

Souji woke up early the next morning, dressed himself, and slipped downstairs. He

opened the kitchen window above the sink, the cool air and soft hiss of pouring rain

soothing his nerves. Inhaling deeply, he slowly lowered himself into one of the chairs

around the kitchen table, burying his face in his hands, eyes screwed shut. His mind

wandered back to his dream from the night before, but his thoughts would only lingeron the fog for a few seconds before the scream would replace the mist and fill his

ears, making bile rise in his throat.

Shuddering, the silverette stood up and walked over to the sink, clumsily retrieving a

cup from one of the cupboards and filling it, leaning against the counter as he felt the

cold liquid go down his throat and chest. He shivered and set the glass down, raising

his gaze to look out at the rain once more. A thin layer of mist was beginning to form

near the ground, causing the dream to come rushing back to him once more.

Turning from the window abruptly, the silverette slipped, his socks sliding over the

smooth clean surface of the kitchen floor, sending him to the ground with a loud

crash and yelp of pain.

"Are you alright…?"

Souji jumped and stumbled to his feet, turning around to see a bewildered Nanako

standing near the stairs, eyeing him uneasily. He smiled weakly and nodded,

stepping toward the fridge as he attempted to casually play off what had justhappened.

"Are you… hungry?" He asked, quietly, using the handle of the fridge to support his

weight as his legs began to tremble again. "I… just woke up a few minutes ago

myself, but…"

Nanako shook her head, walking toward the fridge happily. "Thanks okay, I can do it.

I like making breakfast."


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Souji watched in slight awe as Nanako scurried around the kitchen, gathering

together plates, a pan, toast, and napkins. She set the table, quickly serving drinks

before setting about the task of cooking eggs and toast, leaving the silverette in awe.

She's… only six years old. Does she always do all the cooking around here? The

teen couldn't help but feel sympathetic toward the young brunette. She's mature for

her age, I'll give her that. Most kids my age can't cook their own meals without following instructions or getting help.

"Breakfast is ready…" Nanako mumbled, setting a plate in front of Souji before

scurrying around the table and climbing up into her chair.

She smiled faintly at Souji before grabbing a fork and digging into the small pile of

eggs she'd served herself. Souji, on the other hand, hesitated before reaching for his

toast, absently nibbling on the corner, not liking the silence that filled the air. He

shifted, clearing his throat to grain Nanako's attention and attempted to start a

conversation.

"So… Did Doji—uh, your father already left, huh?"

"Uh-huh…" Nanako sighed and picked up her cup, staring at the juice inside. "There

was some kind of trouble… He won't be back."

Souji could only stare. Never before had he stopped to think that there was someone

else who saw their parents as little—if not less—than he did, taking death out of the

equation. He regretted asking, looking down at his eggs in discomfort, not sure onhow he might be able to redeem the situation.

"You're starting school today, right?"

He nodded.

"My school's on the way… So let's go together!" Nanako smiled, shifting around in

her seat restlessly, a somewhat hopeful glint in her eyes.

Something in the back of Souji's mind cooed softly at Nanako's childish smile. The

corners of his mouth twitched upward as he nodded, making Nanako's smile grow in

power. The 'something' cooed again, and Souji felt faintly awkward as he finished

breakfast with the young girl, chatting absently with her and answering her questions

about what it was like to ride a train alone.

I only met her yesterday… And yet it feels like I've known her for so long. Is it

because we're related…? No, blood or not, connections don't work like that… do


27/333

they? He pushed the thoughts away as he grabbed his bag and umbrella, waiting by

the front door as Nanako gathered together a few last minute things to take to school

with her.

"Okay! I'm ready. Let's go."

The walk to the school zone was quiet, neither of them spoke as they walked

through the damp and puddle filled streets. Souji's eyes paused on a sign that read

'Samegawa Flood Plain' raising an eyebrow as he turned his gaze to glance down at

the river. Flood plain, huh? Looks like the type of place you'd see old men playing

checkers or fishing.

"You keep going straight from here," Nanako explained as she stopped walking,

pointing down the road ahead of them. "If you follow this road, your high school is at

the end. The other students can help you if you get lost." She turned, pointing down

another road, a small, apologetic smile on her face. "My school is this way… If I don't

hurry, I'll be late. Bye!"

Waving, Souji watched Nanako's retreating back until she disappeared around a

corner. With a soft sigh, he turned and started down the road again. As he reached

the intersection in front of the school, a loud squealing noise from behind made him

move to the side of the road, turning to stare, shocked, at a student attempting to

hold an umbrella while riding a yellow, beat-up bike.

Is… he serious!? The silverette could only watch as the boy with light brown hair

struggled to retrain control of the bike, but it just wasn't going to work.

Sensing what was coming before it happened; Souji turned and shut his eyes,

wincing as he heard the sound of metal crashing against metal, followed by a body

slamming into something hard and solid. He turned back around slowly, offering the

brunette boy's back a sympathetic look as the young man doubled over in pain,

whimpering.

That looks like it really hurt… Souji paused, watching the boy silently for a moment

before shaking his head, quickly darting down the road again and hoping that hehadn't been seen. I should probably just leave him alone…

As he approached the gates of the school, Souji paused, looking up at the building in

front of him. The building was large, and fairly glamorous for a school. The court-

yard was clean with well-kept bike racks off to the side and cherry blossom trees on

either side of the entrance. Yasogami High School, huh? This is there I'll be

spending a good chunk of my time for the rest of the year. For a high school out in

the country… It's pretty nice.


28/333

Ignoring the curious glances he received from the students in the lobby, Souji made

his way down the hall, sighing in relief when he found the office quickly. At least I

won't have to wander around like an idiot… It looks as if everyone here knows

everyone else, if only by face. Uniform or not… I stick out like a sore thumb.

He slipped through the door quickly, happy to finally escape the burning looks of

other students. He'd never been fond of being the center of attention. He glanced

around, noting that the office was fairly empty. An oddly dressed female stood at the

far end of the office, talking to a man in what appeared a gym suit. He shrugged,

taking a step toward the two, intending on asking them if they had any idea where he

should be going. A sharp, stern voice made him freeze in his tracks, making him feel

as if he'd just been caught shop-lifting red-handed.

"HEY! What the hell are you doing in here!? This isn't a damn café! Students should

be in the halls or waiting in their seats before class starts! What's a damn punk like

you need in the faculty office? "

Souji turned, staring at the man who'd just addressed him in shock. …Look what the

dog dragged in. Is he really a teacher?

The man in front of him in no way held the appearance of anything he'd expect of a

teacher anywhere—except perhaps a prison… or Albuquerque. His teeth stuck out

at odd angles that would leave any dentist with nightmares until their dying days. His

hair was greasier then his tone, combed over horrendously, giving off the impression

that something had died on the man's head. His suit clashed horribly with a putridyellow tie, making him stick out like a sore-thumb among the students. A vein

throbbed in the teacher's temple, making it look as if the man might explode at any

given moment. All in all, the man's appearance had a clear 'don't-screw-with-me'

aura.

An elegant silver eyebrow arched upward as Souji glanced at the two staff members

behind him. They glanced at Morooka with disapproving expressions, but said

nothing, choosing to exit through the far door of the office rather than the one near

Souji and the foul-tempered teacher. I can't blame them for running…

Inhaling slowly, Souji forced a polite smile on his features as he addressed the

teacher, feigning a tone of innocence. "My name is Souji Seta, Sir. I'm a transfer

student… I was told to come here on my first day and report to a, ah… Mr.

Morooka."

"That's just what I need, another uptown big-shot who thinks he's the coolest damn

thing in the world just 'cause he's from the city." The teacher growled, his dark,


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beady eyes looking Souji up and down in disgust. "Tch… It looks like I'm stuck with

you. As if that lazy-ass Hanamura wasn't enough. One of these days… Whatever.

Follow me, and keep up! I ain't gonna stand around and wait for you to look at every

damn poster on the wall."

"…It's a pleasure to meet you too." Souji muttered as he followed Morooka out into

the hall, a dry smile on his face. Of course. Of all the possible teachers in theschool… I get the one who'd love nothing more than to see me expelled before I

even reach the classroom. This year is going to be so much fun…

"What was that!?" Morooka snapped, pulling Souji from his thoughts. "Did you say

something, city-boy?"

"Nothing, Sir. Just… admiring the school."

"I'm sure…" Morooka replied, his tone darkening. "I bet this is all nothing more than

a damn joke to you."

No, you're the only joke around here, Sir. Souji thought dryly, not daring to say the

words out loud.

"Alright punk, listen up, I ain't repeating myself. Follow me into the classroom and

shut up until you're addressed. I don't wanna hear any of your shitty city-boy slang in

hope of wooing the girls 'cause unlike in your land of filth, out here, the girls ain't so

shallow. Keep your nose in your own damn business and do as you're told. It's bad

enough having to deal with Hanamura's cocky street-talk and attitude and I sure ashell ain't gonna deal with it from you."

Souji could only nod his head, not trusting his tongue to stay in check as he stared

into Morooka's black eyes. He bit his tongue, waiting until the teacher had entered

the room before sighing heavily. Yeah… This year is going to be full of fun

memories. Just… full of them. Pushing his thoughts aside, the silverette hurried

inside, sliding the door shut behind him.

"Awright! Shut yer traps!" Morooka barked at the class, sending the students into anuneasy silence.

"I'm Kinshiro Morooka, your homeroom teacher from today forward! First things first!

Just 'cause it's spring doesn't mean I'm going to stand for you swooning over each

other like a bunch of love-sick morons. It's bad enough the school doesn't have

harsher punishments for the stupid slimeballs who seems to think it's okay to eat

each other's faces in the hallway. 'Long as I'm around, you're all gonna be as pure

as the driven snow. So don't even try any of that cutesy funny stuff."


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seat as if he'd been doing it for years.

"Now listen up! This town is miles away from your big city of perverts and assholes,

in more ways than one. You'd better not even think of getting involved with the girls

here, let alone abusing them."

Oh… Is he still going at it? Souji rolled his eyes, knowing full well Morooka could see

the action and held back a smirk of satisfaction as he watched the vein in the

teacher's forehead throb dangerously.

"Um… Excuse me! Is it alright if the transfer student sits here?"

Souji and Morooka turned, staring at the girl in a green sport-coat who'd been gaping

at Souji earlier. Kinshiro sneered, gesturing to the seat while giving Souji a look that

would have gotten any normal teacher fired.

"Ya hear that, punk? Your seat's over there. Hurry up and siddown before I throw youin that damn seat myself."

Yeah? I'd like to see you try… Smiling politely, Souji nodded and quickly walked

down the aisle of seats, slipping into the empty desk gratefully.

"He's the worst, huh?"

Souji blinked, turning to face the girl in surprise. Her short sandy-brown hair framed

a kind-looking face, pale-brown eyes meeting the silverette's unusual chrome-likeorbs with a friendly light.

"Rotten luck getting stuck in here with him… We'll just have to hang in there for a

year, huh?"

He nodded slowly, not knowing what to say to the girl. He hadn't expected that

anyone would actually talk to him and he'd been counting on being left alone for at

least the first week. It never occurred to him that a transfer student in this area was

that rare.

Sighing, Souji tried to focus on the pointless lecture that Mr. Morooka was giving up

front, but the hushed voices of the students around him stole his attention.

"Sucks to be the transfer student, ending up in King Moron's class on the first

morning here…"

"Yeah, he won't think twice about suspending you if you get on his bad-side. Then


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again… we're all in the same boat as he is, huh?"

"Five bucks says he tries to change classes before the week ends."

"Wha-? Dude, who WOULDN'T? Everyone tries to switch classes if they end up with

this guy."

"Shut your traps!"

The students jumped and the room fell silent once more, everyone eyeing Morooka

with an extreme fear, hatred, or a blend of the two.

"I'm taking roll, and I damn well expect you all to answer in an orderly manner!"

…Am I really going to have to deal with this for a year? Souji thought as he rubbed

his forehead, feeling a headache forming already from all the shouting the teacher

had done. Maybe I'm better off just playing the delinquent this year and skipping… It wouldn't matter in the long run anyway. It isn't as if I'll be here long enough to be held

back from my third year.

How he had made it through the day, Souji couldn't figure it out. He had some

managed to keep from using snappy remarks when the teacher spoke to him, and

answered questions with ease. He leaned against his desk, lazily spinning his

mechanical pencil between his fingers, nearly missing it when 'King Moron' finally

said,

"That's all for today. Normal lectures will start tomorrow."

Normal…? Souji thought dully. I can't even begin to imagine what "normal" might

mean coming from a guy like him.

Just as the silverette was reaching for his bag, a soft trill of notes filled the room as

the intercom burst into life. A shiver ran down Souji's spine as he stared at the

handle of his bag, a sudden wave of unease washing over him as a woman's voice

drifted out of the speaker on the wall.

"Attention, all teachers. Please report to the Faculty Office for a brief staff meeting.

ll students are to return to their classrooms and may not leave the school until

further notice."

"Hrnh…" Morooka snarled, turning to glare at the classroom as he spoke sharply.

"You heard the announcement. Sit down and shut up. You're not going anywhere

until you hear otherwise."


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"He's seriously getting on my nerves…" a female student with short brown hair

standing near Souji's desk muttered darkly as her friend nodded sympathetically.

Hear hear… Souji thought, leaning back in his seat with a sigh. I can't imagine

there's anyone in this building who he doesn't manage to annoy.

Several students ran towards the window as the loud, unmistakable sound of sirens

could be heard. The silverette turned toward the window curiously, frowning as he

noticed the unusually thick fog that prevented anyone from seeing the commotion

outside. The sirens grew louder with each passing second, eventually reaching a

pitch that implied the police had just driven right past the school.

The male students who had gathered around the window were talking excitedly with

one another in hushed tones, discussing something that Souji could only make out

small snippets of. One of the males let out a cry of surprise as he stared at the teen

in the center, a look if disbelief on his face. The boy turned and hurried across the

classroom, pausing as he reached the raven haired girl who sat in the next row.

"H-hey, uh… Yukiko-san? Would you mind if I asked you something? Is it… true that

announcer is staying at your family's inn?"

The raven-haired girl—Yukiko—looked down at her lap, shifting in her seat

uncomfortably.

"I can't talk about something like that…"

The male student winced, looking faintly guilty as he took a step back, flashing

Yukiko an apologetic look. "Y-yeah. That makes sense, sorry." He turned, quickly

scurrying back to his friends beside the window, looking embarrassed.

The chair next to Souji squeaked loudly as the sandy-haired girl stood up, raking its

legs across the floor. She stretched, yawning loudly as she walked around her desk,

stopping next to Yukiko who glanced up, a look of relief immediately falling upon her

face as she realized who was standing next to her.

"Sheesh… How much longer is this going to take…?" The brunette sighed, looking

upset.

Yukiko shook her head sympathetically. "There's no telling. I wonder what happened

to put everyone in a panic like this…"

"Who knows. I shoulda left before that announcement came on…" The down-beat

expression on the short-haired girl's face suddenly brightened as she leaned closer


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to Yukiko, her eyes sparkling faintly. "By the way, didja try what I told you the other

night?"

The raven didn't answer, looking quizzically at her friend.

"You know… That thing about rainy nights!"

Souji turned to look at the two females, blinking slowly. Rainy nights..? He leanedforward in his seat, curious as to what the pair might be talking about.

"Oh… Ah, no, not yet. Sorry."

The light-brunette shrugged, offering Yukiko a small smile.

"Ahh, that's okay. It isn't a big deal. It's just, I heard some guy in the classroom next

door shout something like, 'My soulmate is Yamano, the announcer!' I mean really,

who—"

"Attention, all students."

The classroom fell silent as everyone turned toward PA system, hopeful looks on

their faces.

"There has been an incident inside the school district. Police officers have been

dispatched around the area. Please remain calm and contact your parents or

guardian as soon as you can, and head for your homes. Do not disturb the officersand head directly home. I repeat, there has…" But the rest of the announcement

was drowned out as the students began talking in an uproar.

"An 'incident'!?" a boy near the door shouted, sounding far too excited about

something that sounded so serious. "No way!"

"I wonder what happened…" a girl standing next to Souji's desk muttered to her

friend.

"Come on! Let's go check it out!" The second girl turned, offering the silverette asweet smile that he assumed was meant to butter him up. "Wanna come with us?"

He raised an eyebrow, frowning faintly as he shook his head, politely declining the

offer and ignoring the hurt look he received. Is it so dull around here that a single

incident can cause all this? They're like a group of spectators at a car crash…

Sighing, Souji grabbed his bag and stood up, stepping backward as he nearly

crashed into the short haired girl and Yukiko. The girl with sandy-haired looked at


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him quizzically, tilting her head to the side, looking around as if she expected

someone to suddenly approach him.

"Hey, are you walking home alone? Why don't you come with us?" The girl smiled,

the friendly light he'd seen earlier sparkling in her eyes once more. "Oh! I nearly

forgot! I'm Chie Satonaka. I sit next to you… You know that, right?"

Souji nodded silently, carefully eyeing the two as he debated over their offer.

"Hehe, thought so." Chie smiled and turned to the raven haired girl next to her, "This

is Yukiko Amagi. She sits in front of me—just across from you."

…She really doesn't have to explain it. The silverette thought, I'm not blind.

Yukiko smiled faintly at Souji, looking apologetic as she spoke in a quiet tone. "It's

nice to meet you… I'm sorry that this is so sudden."

Chie pouted, waving her hand in protest. "Don't apologize like that… It makes me

look bad. I just wanted to ask some stuff… That's all, really. I'm curious. We haven't

gotten a transfer student since Yosuke."

Turning back to Souji, Chie flashed him another grin. "So, wanna walk with us?"

"I…" he trailed off, pausing as he looked between the two females. It couldn't hurt to

be polite, could it? They seem friendly and… there's something about them that's…

familiar. "I'd like that, thank you."

"Woohoo! Awesome! Let's go then." Chie turned happily, pausing as a male student

approached her before they could reach the end of the row of desks.

"Uh, um… A-ahem. Miss Satonaka…?" The student looked bleak, his eyes focused

closer to the ground than Chie's face.

His uniform jacket was buttoned up three-quarters of the way, revealing a white shirt

underneath that wasn't like the dress-shirt Souji had been given to wear. The shirt's

collar had a deep orange stripe that matched the orange headphones that hung

around his neck and the messenger back hanging over his shoulder.

That's… the boy who crashed this morning. Souji mused, watching as the other male

produced a DVD case, his eyes nervously darting up to Chie's face before falling to

the floor again. …Did he do something? He looks ready to bolt.

"This was really awesome. Like, the way they moved was just amazing and… really


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inspirational."

"…Huh?" Chie frowned, looking completely bewildered as the boy thrust the DVD

into her hands, bowing deeply.

"And… I'm really sorry! It was a complete and total accident! I-I crashed and…

Please have mercy until my next paycheck."

"Huh—wha?" She blinked and looked down at the DVD box in confusion, obviously

not expecting the sudden bizarre display.

"S-seeya! Thanks!" The brunette smiled faintly before turning on his heel, running for

the door.

"What the-!? Stop right there! What did you do to my DVD!?" Chie cried, running

after the male and grabbing him by the back of the collar.

Souji winced and looked away as Chie's leg jerked upward, connecting with the male

and causing him to yelp loudly in pain. The brunette boy stumbled backward,

whimpering as he jumped from one foot to the other, clutching his groin.

Rushing over, Yukiko and Souji stopped just short of Chie who was staring at the

contents of the DVD box with a mix of shock and horror.

"Wh… I can't believe this! It's completely cracked!" The silverette leaned forward to

look at the split CD sitting in the box as Chie wailed, "My 'Trial of the Dragon!' Howcould you!?"

"I think mine's cracked too…" the brunette groaned, "C-Critical hit to the nads…"

Souji bit his lip, holding back the laughter that had bubbled up in his throat. Despite

the humor of the situation, he couldn't help but feel bad for the other boy and didn't

wish to humiliate him any more by laughing about it.

"A-are you alright…?" Yukiko gasped, looking faintly horrified at Chie's actions.

"Oh… Yukiko-san…" the brunette looked up, a pained smile tugging at his lips. "A-

are you worried about me…?" The boy looked like he was in pain, but the obvious

glint of joy in his eyes didn't go unnoticed by Chie who growled.

"He's fine, Yukiko! Let's ditch him and go home."

Yukiko turned to Chie and nodded, glancing warily back at the headphone-clad boy

before hurrying after her friend. Souji made to follow them, but hesitated, worried


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about the brunette's condition. Contrary to the sandy-haired female's words, the boy

looked far from 'fine', but the silverette knew there was nothing he could do and he

quietly followed after the other two.

As the three of them approached the gates of the school, a young boy with black hair

and unusually shaped eyes ran forward, stopping in front of Yukiko. The uniform he

wore was styled like a suit, more like the uniform of the last high school Souji hadattended in a city near Tokyo then the Yasogami one.

"You're Yuki, right?" The boy spoke, his voice deep and slightly raspy.

Something about the boy made Souji feel uneasy as he looked the other over. The

boy wasn't exactly appealing to the eye, but it wasn't the other's physical appearance

that made him uneasy. It was something about the way the strange boy spoke and

held himself. The way his black eyes darted around, before they'd return their eerie

gaze to Yukiko who looked completely bewildered at the teen's approach. Whatever

it was, it made Souji feel edgy and he didn't like the feeling at all.

"Y-You wanna hang out somewhere?"

"Wh-what?" Yukiko took a half-step back, eyeing the odd boy uneasily. "W-who are

you?"

Behind them, two students walked toward the gate, stopping just a few feet away as

they began to talk each other.

"What the…? What's up with that uniform? Where's that guy from?"

The boy's friend laughed, shaking his head. "Who cares about that… Look, he's

going for Yukiko-san. Man, you'd think he'd at least have the sense to wait until she's

alone to try and make a move."

"Haha, bet you a can of TaP he gets knocked flat."

"What? Pfft, no bet. Haven't you heard how hard the Amagi challenge is? Not achance in hell."

Chie scoffed loudly as she glared back at the two students who were completely

oblivious to her look. Souji rolled his eyes and turned away, shaking his head. No

matter where he went, at least half the students in the school he attended were

rumor-loving idiots who got a kick out of butting into other's personal lives. It

annoyed the silverette to no end and he made it a point to avoid such people.


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"H-hey…" the suited boy called nervously, trying to gain Yukiko's attention. "S-so are

you coming or not?"

Yukiko jumped and took another step back, shaking her head. "I-I'm not going…" Her

gaze shifted to the ground as the eerie boy's face contorted in anger, and Souji

couldn't help but feel sorry for the raven-haired female.

"…Fine!" The boy shouted, making Yukiko jump as he turned and bolted away,

disappearing around the corner.

What the hell was that? Souji frowned, He's… creepy.

"Wh-what did he want from me?" Yukiko muttered, looking at Chie. "I mean he…"

"What did he want…?" Chie repeated, sounding surprised. "Obviously the guy was

trying to ask you out on a date. Don't tell me you couldn't tell…"

Yukiko shook her head and Chie groaned.

"Sheesh, you're gonna get kidnapped if you stay oblivious like that. Still… That was

creepy, wasn't it? How he started calling you 'Yuki' all of a sudden. He was acting

like he'd known you for years."

"Yo! Yukiko-san. Turned down another one, eh?" The brunette boy from the

classroom walked up to the three, pushing his yellow bike at his side. "Man, you're

cruel, aren't you? You got me the same way last year… It was harsh."

"…Did I?" Yukiko looked surprised. "I don't remember doing that."

"Whoa, really?" the brunette grinned, looking excited. "So then… You wanna hang

out sometime?"

"…I'd rather not."

"Ouch…" the brunette sighed and shook his head, swinging a leg over his bike.

"That'll teach me to get my hopes up. Anyway, don't pick on the transfer student toomuch… Hey man, if those two bother you, feel free to just run for it." With a small

laugh, the brunette pushed off and speed down the road, turning his squealing bike

sharply at the curb.

"Wh—Oh for the love of-!" Chie growled and stopped her foot. "We're just curious, is

all!"

Yukiko chuckled weakly, smiling apologetically. "I'm sorry for dragging you into all of


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this…"

Souji shrugged and shook his head. "It's not a big deal. I'm… having fun, really."

"Uuugh." Chie groaned, "Come on… Everyone is staring. Let's go."

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"So… you came here because of your parents' jobs?" Chie asked, laughing lightly.

"Well, that's good to hear at least. I thought it was something way more serious

like… trouble or something."

Souji simply shook his head and smiled faintly, resisting the urge to ask, 'What sort

of trouble?' The two girls—mostly Chie—had been asking him various questions

about himself and his reasons for coming to Inaba. Despite his original resolution

that he wasn't going to allow himself to grow close to anyone, the silverette found

himself answering each of their questions fully with ease.

"Man, that's gotta suck though, being thrown out here after being in the city. There's

really nothing out here…" Chie sighed. "I mean… I guess that's what makes it nice

but… when outsiders come; we have nothing to show them. I think like… we've got

dyed clothes or pottery or something from Mt. Yasogami, but…"

"It isn't that bad…" Souji mused, "It's nice. Unlike the city, you can really relax here.

Everyone seems to know everyone—if only by face—and it has a… warm feeling to

it."

Chie laughed and nodded. "Yeah, I guess you could say that, but still… I mean,

we've got some great restaurants and all but… Oh! I know! The Amagi Inn! Yukiko's

family runs it and it's the pride of Inaba!"

"Huh?" Yukiko blushed faintly, shaking her head. "It's… just an old inn. You don't

have to make it grander than it sounds."

"What

fortuna favet fatuis - fortunesrevolver

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