#goro feelings in the chat tonight....

[lesbian-empress-nero]

Goro Akechi knows many things.

He knows the many crimes of Masayoshi Shido. He knows the gory details of his mother’s suicide. He knows the histories of the elusive Phantom Thieves, each a tragedy of its own merit.

What he didn’t know was that he was still capable of dreams that didn’t turn to nightmares that left him awake and trembling in a cold sweat, desperately trying to ease the memories from his mind.

Tonight was his first time dreaming in some time. He was sitting in LeBlanc, the Phantom Thieves around him. Sakamoto and Takamaki are playing a game of a piece of blank paper in a booth, Niijima and Okumura are chatting merrily over lattes and delicious-looking pastries, and Isshiki- no, Sakura, he reminds himself- is playing with that cat at the counter.

Kurusu is behind said counter, smiling gently as he prepares another round of coffees and curries, his glasses fogged up from the constant steam that rises from his work.

Akechi sits at the counter as well, near the payphone in his usual seat. The book in front of him definitely has words, but he can’t read a single bit of it. It looks like English, but the letters are scrambled and warped beyond any hope of recognition.

The bell to the front door rings, and everyone, Akechi included, turns their head to look at who it is.

And Akechi suddenly feels as though he can’t breathe, because his mother is standing there, alive and well and beaming from ear to ear and suddenly Goro sees the resemblance between them in the way her brown hair falls around her face and her red eyes shine like rubies in certain lighting and the way she holds herself. And Goro finds himself wrapped up in her arms, sobbing, and the Phantom Thieves have their eyes on each other but they’re definitely still watching as though they’re the audience of one of those terrible TV interviews he keeps accepting.

“My son, my beautiful son, how you’ve grown so handsomely,” his mother murmurs into his hair, tucking it behind his ear and pressing a kiss against it, gently pulling away to cup his cheeks. Her gaze is soft and warm, kind and lovely. Goro wants to sob some more like a little child.

“Goro, how sorry I am for leaving you behind so young... How I wish to go back, to watch in person as you grow. Forgive me, Goro, I beg you...” His mother sinks to her knees at her son’s feet, hands still wrapped in his, her hair falling around her like a curtain, hiding her weeping face.

Goro can’t speak, so he kneels down in front of her, rests their foreheads together, looks at her for as long as he dares before bringing her to her feet as he rises.

His mother pulls him into another hug, and Goro smells cherry and vanilla- her perfume. There’s a hint of lavender there too, eerily similar to how Sakamoto smells when he’s close enough.

“Mom-” he chokes out, and his mother looks at him with the same odd tenderness that he sometimes saw Kurusu look at him with, or perhaps the warmth of Sakamoto. The determination of Takamaki. The resiliance of Niijima. The pureheartedness of Okumura. The tenacity of Isshiki Sakura.

He sees the Phantom Thieves in the simple, gentle gaze of his mother. And he feels as though he can’t breathe, but he continues to gasp for air and cling to her, cling to the memory of her warmth against his body, her gentle touch on his back, the kisses she peppers his hair with.

And when he wakes up, he swears he can still smell cherry-vanilla perfume mixed with lavender shampoo and coffee as it lingers in the air.

i love the detail that the words on the page can't be read. dreams are like ai generated images. there will be things out of place, words you cant read, distorted hands with missing or additional fingers, clocks that dont work, lights that dont turn on. idk im a person who likes dreams.

anyway onto the actual fic DOES RYUJI REMIND AKECHI OF HIS MOM??? IM GOING TO SCREAMMM when hes in his dream and the smell reminds him of ryuji... then he wakes up and he still smells it... also that must feel horrible whenever he wakes up, being so happy to see that person again only for it to be a dream and just wanting to go back to sleep forever and live in your mind...

#are akechi and ryuji cuddling PLEAAASSE #nero answers #shackle-foes #goro akechi #ryugoro #persona 5 #persona 5 spoilers #p5 spoilers #p5

[vgckwb]

P5R: Rebel Girl (A FeMC Story/P5R Rework) Chapter 195: This is Halloween

The next day, as Ren was heading to school, there was a message in the Phantom Thieves group chat. She checked it.

Yusuke: Pardon me. I know today is Hallowen, but does anyone have time to meet after school?

Yusuke: I have a lot on my mind, and I want to discuss it with people.

Haru: Unfortunately, I have to decline.

Haru: There’s an important meeting at Okumura Foods, and I'd like to be a part of it.

Makoto: I can’t make it either.

Makoto: I’m helping someone today.

Futaba: And in case you forgot, I’m busy looking through our notes and contacting Riko and Akechi.

Lena: Oh, be sure to contact Goro first.

Lena: He and I have a date tonight.

Ryuji: Oh, nice!

Ryuji: As it so happens, Ann and I also have a date.

Ann: Yeah, but I’m sure we can help you Yusuke.

Ann: So long as it doesn’t take too long.

Sumire: I can be there too!

Ren: Same.

Ren: And I think if we meet at Leblanc, Morgana can also make it.

Yusuke: Personally, I’d like to meet there as well.

Jose: I’d like to come too, but I promised the theater club something.

Yusuke: Will I see you at the Kosei Halloween party at least?

Jose: Yeah…

Yusuke: I guess I’ll talk to you then.

Jose: Sure.

Lena: I can make it too if we can do it before mine and Goro’s date.

Lena: In case that wasn’t clear.

Yusuke: Alright then.

Yusuke: See you after school.

Ren: See you then!

Ren put her phone away, and continued towards school.

Meanwhile, Futaba was looking through stuff, when she decided to hack back into Akechi’s phone.

???: Greeting Detective Akechi!

???: This is Phantom Thief Alibaba.

Goro: Huh.

Goro: I thought she’d have told you by now.

???: Who are you talking about?

Goro: I gave one of your associates a list of people who I suspect to be Phantom Thieves, and you for sure were on it.

???: Well, maybe you just don’t know my associates then.

???: Because I’ve never heard of this list.

Akechi was frustrated, but didn’t feel like pushing this point at the moment.

Goro: Well, in any case, how goes things on your end?

???: We ran into a few complications.

???: But we shall overcome.

Goro: Do you need my help?

???: Perhaps.

Goro: How may I be of assistance?

???: We need to ratchet up the pressure on the director.

???: He’s planning something, and we need to figure out how to undermine him.

Goro: That seems tricky.

Goro: But I may have a solution.

???: Go on.

Goro: I’ve been tracking down his associates, but none of them have been all too helpful.

Goro: So maybe we should just play into his sense of superiority. We make it look like we aren’t accomplishing anything, and then surprise him when you accomplish your next goal.

???: That…actually works with what we’ve been planning.

Goro: May I ask what that is?

???: Do you still want to arrest us after all this is said and done?

Goro: I see your point.

???: It’s not that we don’t want to work with you further…

Goro: I understand.

Goro: To be honest, I have my own goals that letting you in would complicate.

???: I can imagine.

Goro: Still, I like this balance we are striking.

Goro: Perhaps in another time, another place, we could be good friends.

???: Perhaps.

Goro: Well, good luck on your mission.

???: You too!

Futaba cut off contact with Akechi.

“Hm,” Akechi grinned. ���I don’t think I was given wrong information on who ‘Alibaba’ was. Still, I can’t let them know that entirely. I do hope that the director can remain more composed than to let it slip when his back is suddenly against the wall. It’s a bit of a risk, but it’s the easiest way to keep The Phantom Thieves off his trail. Sorry Phantom Thieves, but he’s mine!” Akechi got another message, this time from Lena.

Lena: Hey Goro!

Lena: I’m helping a friend after school, but don’t worry.

Lena: I should be back around 5:30-ish, and I have our costumes ready, so you can just come over.

Goro: Can’t wait! See you then!

Akechi put his phone away and continued onward.

Meanwhile, Futaba sighed, relieved. “I can’t believe he bought that.” She then went back to looking through the various notes Riko had given her.

Afterschool, Yusuke, Ren, Morgana, Sumire, Ann, Ryuji, and Lena met up at Leblanc. “Soooo, what’s this about?” Ryuji asked.

Yusuke hesitated. “...I…know it was the right thing to leave Madarame…but ever since then, I’ve felt torn. When I was living with Madarame, I could think of art purely. But now, I’m being confronted with the reality that if I were to survive in the art world, no, in the world in general, I need to think about other things than art. I have to use my art to survive. In that way, I don’t think I can purely see art ever again. It’s all just a means to an end.”

He looked over at the Sayuri hanging up. “The reason I wanted to come here was to take another look. I have often felt inspired by Sayuri. And knowing its true nature, it’s only more beautiful.” He sighed. “But alas, my mind is so cluttered with the poisonous trappings of everyday life that I don’t think I can create something even half as good.” He looked back at everyone. “So, what do I do?”

Everyone looked at Yusuke. “Um, no offense,” Ryuji said, “but can’t you focus on both?” Yusuke seemed intrigued. “I mean, I started running because I liked it. And I thought if I could be successful enough in track, I could help my mom. So I just kept doing what I loved.”

“Yeah,” Ann said. “Doing what you love is wonderful! I admit that we don’t live in an ideal world, and we do need to focus on how to survive, but if you can do it by doing something you love, then there’s no worry, right?”

“I’m not sure that’s entirely helpful,” Morgana said, “but I get the sentiment. It’s like ‘you’re already doing it, might as well go all in.’ And if a Phantom Thief can’t go all in, well…”

“Huh,” Yusuke said. “I understand.”

“I get that it’s not easy,” Sumire said. “And believe me, even with all the help in the world, there will still be road bumps. But if you are determined to strive forward with your dream, then instead of thinking of the road bumps in a completely negative light, think of how you can use them to your advantage.”

“Yeah,” Lena added. “I mean, I left my home to pursue my dreams. It hasn’t been easy, but I’m still trying. And I’m glad you asked us. Being able to reach out is hard, but I know it’s worth it in the end.”

“Everyone…” Yusuke said.

Ren smirked. “Remember: Kosuke told you to be the best damn artist you could be, right? I bet you’d hate to disappoint him. Or us, for that matter.”

Yusuke started to remember Kosuke’s words after they defeated him. He smirked as well. “Yes. And he told me something else. He said I ‘always had eyes on the bigger picture.’ I guess I just lost sight of it once everything changed. I thought I had to change with it, I suppose I still do, but I think I need to change in a way that suits me, you know?”

“Yeah!” Ryuji said. “Being yourself is what a Phantom Thief is all about!”

“I agree!” Morgana said.

“Hey!” Ann said. “Look at you two getting along!”

“Huh?!” Ryuji and Morgana gasped.

“I mean…We just agree here,” Ryuji said.

“Yeah,” Morgana protested. “It’s not like we’re close or anything.”

“Oh, I doubt that,” Sumire said. “After everything we’ve been through, there’s nothing that can tear us apart. And that includes you two.”

“Well…” Ryuji tried to follow up.

“Hm hm,” Lena giggled. “Even if you butt heads from time to time, you’re still good friends in the end, right?”

“Mreeeee…” Morgana groaned, not wanting to admit it, but being unable to lie.

Yusuke chuckled. He took out a sketchbook and started sketching. He soon presented it to everyone. “Behold!” It was a sketch of Ryuji and Morgana being angry with each other, but in the background was them admiring each other. “I call it ‘Tempest Friendship’.”

“What?!” Morgana shrieked.

“You’re…not going to make that into a full painting, are you?” Ryuji asked.

“I might,” Yusuke said. “But I have a lot of other paintings in mind. But this one is nice.”

“I like it,” Ren said. “It’s a commemoration of you getting out of your slump.”

“Yes,” Yusuke said. “But I still need something more. This is nice, but I want my first full piece to be GLORIOUS!”

“I understand the feeling,” Sumire said. “Once you overcome an obstacle, you want to show the world just what you’re capable of.”

“Yeah!” Lena added. “I know you can do it. You can set the art world on FIRE!”

Yusuke chuckled. “Thank you, everyone. I don’t know where I would be without you.”

“The feeling is mutual,” Ren said.

Emperor-Yusuke Kitagawa: Rank 8

Lena stood up. “Well, I should get going. I need to meet up with Goro to go on our date.” She opened the door. “Bye!”

“We should get going too,” Ann said. “We gotta make sure your costume fits!”

“Co-Costume?” Ryuji said. “I thought we were just hanging out.”

“On Halloween?!” Ann said. “No way! We’re here to have FUN!” She grabbed Ryuji’s arm. “Let’s go!”

“Ah!” Ryuji said, jolting up. “Alright then. Let’s see what you got!” The two of them left.

“I should get going too,” Yusuke said. “I missed last year’s Kosei Halloween Party due to Madarame. I don’t want to miss any more.”

“Take care!” Ren said. She and Yusuke waved at each other as he left. Once he was gone, Ren looked at Sumire. “I’m sorry I didn’t plan anything.”

“Huh?!” Sumire said. “Oh, uh, no, it’s quite alright. Well, I mean…” She sighed. “This is my first Halloween without Kasumi. We always used to do adorable twin costumes. I really liked doing that. I guess I’m not ready to do something big yet…”

Ren grabbed Sumire’s hand. “It’s OK. Just go at your own pace.”

Sumire smiled. “I guess doing a little something with you would be nice.”

Ren chuckled. “I think I know just the thing.” Ren glanced at Morgana. “Are you OK on your own?”

“Please,” Morgana said. “A black cat on Halloween? I couldn’t be more at home. I bet I can find something JUICY!”

Ren nodded. “Just be safe OK? And get back home at a reasonable time.”

“Right!” Morgana said. With that, the three of them left. Morgana headed off in his own direction, while Ren was leading Sumire somewhere.

Meanwhile, Makoto and Eiko arrived at Eiko’s house. “I’m home!” Eiko called out. No response.

“Is no one home?” Makoto wondered.

“No, my mom and brother are home,” Eiko said, pointing at the shoes.

“Oh. Right,” Makoto said. “Sorry…”

“It’s OK,” Eiko said. “You’re the one rescuing me from this after all.”

Makoto smiled. “Right.” They took off their shoes and headed in.

Sure enough, Eiko’s mom and brother were there. Her brother was watching TV, while her mom was baking. “Hi,” Eiko said.

“Oh, Eiko honey,” Eiko’s mom said. “I didn’t hear you come in.”

Eiko glared at her, but kept her composure. “Um, this is my…friend Makoto,” she said, remaining civil. “The girl I told you about.”

“Hm?” Eiko’s mom said, looking over. “Oh that’s right. You said you were moving in with her.”

“That’s right,” Eiko said.

“Um, hello,” Makoto said, unsure of what to expect.

“Hm,” Eiko’s mom said. “Well thank you.” Makoto was surprised. “I’m glad Eiko found a friend like you.”

“Um…thanks…?” Makoto replied.

“I know she can be a handful,” Eiko’s mom said, “but I’m sure you’ll manage. From what I’ve heard, you’re quite capable.”

“Oh, she’s really no trouble at all,” Makoto protested.

“I know you’re trying to be polite,” Eiko’s mom responded, “but we both know that Eiko is…how you say, rambunctious. I mean, look at Asahi over there. He gets good grades. He’s popular at school. He’s the leader of the soccer team. You can tell he’s meant for great things. But Eiko? She bends and breaks so easily. She’s a follower by nature. She barely gets by, and is only friends with miscreants. Er, present company excluded, of course.”

“Of course,” Makoto repeated bitterly.

“But hey, maybe with you, she’ll turn her life around,” Eiko’s mom said.

“Well,” Makoto said firmly, “I think that’s the first thing you’ve said that I agree with.” Eiko’s mom looked at her intently. “But you’re completely wrong about Eiko. She’s smarter than you give her credit for. A lot braver and a lot kinder too. But I think she’s being stifled by your expectations. So that’s why she’ll be in my care from here on.” Eiko was stunned by Makoto’s fiery rebuttal.

Eiko’s mom glared at her. “It’s going to be like that, is it?”

“I’m afraid so,” Makoto replied.

Eiko’s mom went back to baking. “Well, whatever. It’s not like she’s going to be my problem for much longer.”

“The fact that you think of her as a ‘problem’ is very much the reason she’ll be gone soon,” Makoto said. “Though I doubt you ever really thought of her as ‘yours’.”

Eiko’s mom grew more bitter. “Did you just come here to argue with me?”

“As a matter of fact, I didn’t,” Makoto said. “This was just a fun bonus.” Eiko laughed, while Eiko’s mom groaned. “I came over to help Eiko pack a little, and then we’re going to catch a movie.”

“Hm,” Eiko’s mom said. “Well, if you leave before you can taste my Halloween cookies, there won’t be any when you get back.”

“We’ll probably grab dinner afterwards anyway,” Makoto said,

“Suit yourself,” Eiko’s mom said. “Like I care at this point.”

“It seems the feeling is mutual,” Makoto said. “Eiko?” Eiko nodded, and they headed over to her room.

On their way, Eiko whispered “Don’t worry. Mom’s cookies suck anyways.”

“And she calls you imperfect,” Makoto whispered back. They shared a giggle before entering Eiko’s room to pack up a little.

Meanwhile, Haru arrived at the boardroom. The members there were shocked, and one of them asked “Erm, Miss Okumura, um, what are you doing here?”

Haru answered with “I know I’m still a student, and I’ve not attended many of these, but now that everything has changed, I wish to take a bigger role in the company. I will start by attending these meetings whenever I can. Of course, I can’t make any policy decisions, but I wish to at least have a voice.”

“But Mis Okumura-”

“Let her stay,” an older gentleman said.

“Takakura!”

“What she said isn’t wrong,” Takakura continued. “Although I wish you didn’t have to worry too much about the company at this stage.”

“I don’t mind,” Haru said. “But as I’ve said before, I’ll inform you of my decision once I come to it. In the meantime, I wish to do whatever I can to help.”

“Very well,” Takakura said. There were some whispers around the table about Takakura’s disposition towards Haru, as well as her father. “Anwyas!” Takakura commanded. Everyone went silent. “If we’re all here, let’s begin.” Everyone nodded. “As you may know, things haven’t been going well since Mr. Okumura’s heart was stolen. But he is no longer a part of this company. We are the future of Okumura Foods, and we have to make sure we salvage this sinking ship. We’re doing all we can to make up for Mr. Okumura’s past transgressions, including that new order that came in just a few days ago, but-”

“Um,” Haru interjected. “What new order?”

Takakura looked at her. “We’ve been ordered to recall and shut down Starfall Coffee.”

“How come?” Haru asked.

“We’re not sure,” another executive said. “All we know is that we’ve been told that there’s a major issue with it.”

“By whom?” Haru wondered.

“The Special Investigations Unit,” another executive answered. “It was found as part of the investigation into your father.”

“Huh,” Haru said. I should tell the others that.

“Anyways!” Takaura said, steering the conversation back on task. “While everything we’re doing to correct the mistakes of the past, it’s imperative that we start thinking about the future of Okumura Foods.”

The future of Okumura Foods, huh… Haru pondered. What do I see for the future?

A little later, Akechi was checking his phone. He saw the news of the Starfall Coffee recall. “Hm. I suppose that was inevitable at this rate. I’m sure he’s already figured something else out by now.”

He arrived at Lena’s house. He knocked on the door. Lena answered. “Goro!” she cheered, leaping into his arms.

“Heh heh,” Goro chuckled. Lena looked up and the two shared a kiss. “I can’t wait to see what you’ve whipped up.”

“Oh right!” Lena said, letting go. “Follow me!” She led him inside. They went up to her room. Lena had two mannequins setup with homemade costumes.

Akechi looked at the masculine mannequin. He saw a formal outfit with a really hairy wig and tail coming off of it. “So, I’m a formal werewolf?”

Lena giggled. “No silly! It’s a couple’s costume. We’re going as Beauty and The Beast.” Lena presented her costume on the feminine mannequin, which was an adaptation of her persona.

“I see,” Akechi replied.

“It’s perfect!” Lena said. “I’ve always loved the story! BUT it works for you as well?”

“Does it?” Akechi wondered.

Lena nodded. “Now we can go out and about in public and nobody will know it’s you because you’re covered in hair.”

“I see,” Akechi said.

“ALSO!” Lena said. “I gave the chestpiece a little bit of padding so you don’t need to wear a binder. I know you shouldn’t wear that all the time.”

“Hm hm. You know, that was quite thoughtful of you,” Akechi said.

“Hm hm. Thanks,” Lena replied.

Akechi smiled. “Well, shall we get changed?”

“Oh!” Lena said, stunned. “Yes! Um, do you need help?”

“I think I can manage,” Akechi said.

“Great!” Lena said.

A few minutes later, both of them were changed and ready to head out. “You know, this costume fits me like a glove,” Akechi noted.

Lena giggled. “Well, you did tell me your measurements.”

“Right,” Akechi said. He offered his hand. “Well then, shall we?”

Lena curtsied. “Let’s. She took Akechi’s hand, and the two of them went off to celebrate.

As they left, Tamako looked on, smiled, sighed, and remarked “Tail as old as time.”

Meanwhile, at Ann’s house. Ryuji was in one of the restrooms. “Does it fit?” Ann called out from outside.

“I think so,” Ryuji said. “It’s a little lose, but I imagine that’s part of it.”

“Yeah,” Ann remarked. “Well come on, let me see!”

Ryuji walked out. He was wearing a slightly ill-fitting green tuxedo jacket and pants, with a maroon shirt underneath, a white bowtie with red polka dots, and a large green hat with a tag sticking out of it reading “In This Style 10/6”. “Hah, this was a GREAT idea!” Ryuji exclaimed. “And this costume is AMAZING!”

Ann giggled. “Thanks.” Ryuji looked at his girlfriend to see her wearing a blue dress with a white apron, black and white stripped stockings, and a black hairband over her head, which was all the way down, since she removed the pigtails. “What do you think of my costume?”

Ryuji smiled. “You look adorable.”

Ann giggled again. “Thanks. So, are you ready to paint the town red?”

“Absolutely!” Ryuji answered. “And I believe that we should party even harder than usual. Not only is it Halloween, but I believe it’s both of our unbirthdays.”

“You’re right,” Ann said. They took each other’s hands and went off to celebrate.

Morgana was walking around town. He saw people celebrating by dressing up and being a little more raucous than usual. Still, he didn’t mind. He loved it when people were having fun. Besides, he was on the prowl for information, and tonight seemed like a night where people were a little more loose-lipped .

Morgana was trekking around when he passed by a police station. He noticed they were throwing out their coffee maker. “Why are we doing this again?” one of the officer’s asked.

“Because,” another officer answered, “the SIU told us to.”

“‘SIU’?” Morgana wondered. “I should get closer.” He stealthed his way to the officers talking.

“I know,” the first officer said. “But it tastes so good!”

“I know Okumura’s Starfall Coffee is good,” the second officer said. “But it’s dangerous.”

“How come?”

The second officer looked around. “Don’t mention this to anyone, but I’ve heard that it’s one of the causes of those mental shutdowns we’ve been looking into.”

“WHAT?!” Morgana shrieked. He slipped from his perch and landed in front of the two officers. He was a little nervous.

The second officer sighed. “It’s just a cat.”

“Yeah,” the first officer said. “Imagine if that was a person. But still, that gives me chills. To think a cup of coffee could make someone go insane. Usually if I don’t get a cup of joe, I go insane.”

“Trust me, you’re plenty insane with or without coffee,” the second officer said.

“HEY!” the first officer shouted. They both went inside.

Morgana sighed, relieved. “I guess…this body has its uses.” He stood up and shook himself off. “I should go home and tell Futaba.” Morgana started heading back.

At Kosei, Yusuke emerged from his dorm room wearing his regular clothes, as well as a set of fake cat ears and cat tail. He moved out to where the party was being held.

Upon arrival, he got a few looks. “Hey, Kitagawa!” said one of the other students, who was wearing a succubus costume. “That’s…an interesting costume.”

“Forgive me,” Yusuke said. “I didn’t have enough money for a full costume.”

“No no, it’s great!” the other student said. “It’s so…you!”

“Why thank you,” Yusuke replied.

“Well, uh, help yourself to some punch,” the other student said. “Oh, and take some sweets too.”

“Hm. Don’t mind if I do,” Yusuke said. As he was getting his food and drink, he turned and asked “Oh, has Jose arrived yet?”

“Um, I don’t think so,” the other student said.

“He told me he was doing something with the theater department,” Yusuke clarified.

“Oh!’ the other student said. “Well, you’ll see him soon then.”

“Huh?” Yusuke wondered.

Suddenly, the front of the room lit up. “It’s starting!” the other student said.

“The Kosei Theater Club proudly presents: The Dance to Summon The Pumpkin Prince!” Yusuke’s attention was focused on the makeshift stage. In the middle of it was a big leaf. The various theater kids, dressed as all sorts of Halloween classics, began dancing around the leaf, attempting to summon The Pumpkin Prince.

Soon, two sides formed, and they began giving each other cues to act and react. Slowly but surely, the leaf started to blossom. Once it fully bloomed, there was a pumpkin in the middle of it. The pumpkin slowly got up, turned around, and revealed himself to be Jose in a pumpkin costume. “THE PUMPKIN PRINCE!” the other performers exclaimed. Jose smiled. There was a round of applause.

Later, Yusuke met up with Jose. “I must say, you did an excellent job.”

“Oh, you saw that, did you?” Jose said, embarrassed.

“Indeed,” Yusuke siad. “I feel inspired.”

“Eh heh,” Jose laughed. “Well, I didn’t do a whole lot. They just needed someone short, and I fit the bill.”

“Nonsense,” Yusuke said. “You were the star of the show.”

“Well…” Jose said.

“Don’t be so modest,” Hifumi said. Yusuke and Jose turned to look at her. She was wearing ancient Japanese regal attire. “You did wonderfully.”

“Thanks,” Jose said.

“Pardon me,” Yusuke said. “Are you supposed to be Queen Himiko?”

Hifumi giggled. “You’re the first person to guess correctly.”

“But it’s so obvious,” Yusuke said.

“Well, you look pretty either way,” Jose remarked.

Hifumi chuckled. “Thanks. You know, you look adorable yourself.”

“Eh heh,” Jose chuckled, blushing. “Oh right.” He looked up to Yusuke. “Do you still need help?”

“You need help?” Hifumi wondered.

“Well, I suppose I could tell you,” Yusuke said. “I’ve sorted things out, but more voices wouldn’t hurt.” He explained his earlier meeting to Jose and Hifumi.

“I see,” Jose said. “Well, to be honest, I think I’d mirror what they said. But I would add that doing something like this is a seeminglessly endless task, but doing so is its own reward.”

“If I may,” Hifumi added, “I think the issue you may be having is that, pardon my bluntness, you don’t really have any immediate family members. I know I’m doing shogi for my father, but…”

Yusuke grinned. “I see. While it is true that I don’t have any relatives, I do have friends, and they’re like a family to me. If I can do it for them, then there’s nothing I can’t do.”

“That’s the spirit!” Jose said.

Hifumi giggled. “I could really use courage like yours.”

“Oh right,” Yusuke said. “Do you-?”

“I’ll figure that out later,” Hifumi said. “Tonight, I just want to have fun. Shall we get more punch?”

“Of course,” Yusuke said. The three of them went off to enjoy the party.

Later, Makoto and Eiko arrived at the movie theater. Makoto sighed. “Sorry. I didn’t realize how bad it was at your place.”

Eiko chuckled. “It’s alright. Besides, I loved seeing you put my mom in her place.”

“Are you sure you don’t want to move tonight?” Makoto said. “Because we can skip the movie, and-”

Eiko shook her head. “It’s alright. I can wait until then.”

Makoto nodded. “Well, if you say so. So, what movie do you want to watch?” “Well, it’s Halloween, right?” Eiko said. “So something scary!”

“GAH!” Makoto shrieked. Eiko was confused. “Sorry. It’s just…I don’t take to horror too well.”

“Oh!’ Eiko said.

“But if you really want to-”

“Shhhhhhh,” Eiko said, calming her girlfriend down. “It’s OK. I can watch it on my own time. Tonight is about us!” Makoto nodded. “So, what do you want to watch? Maybe a Buchimaru-kun movie.”

“Well, one isn’t playing until December,” Makoto said. “And that’s a special event showing off the classic Christmas with Buchimaru-kun.”

“Woah,” Eiko siad. “I was joking.”

“Oh, uh…” Makoto said, embarrassed.

Eiko chuckled. “It’s fine. I think it’s really cute that you’re into it. Most people would feel like they’re too cool for it. But I still like it as well. Granted, it has been a bit…”

Makoto smiled. “Thanks.”

Eiko smiled back. “But, is it anything like that, or Buchimaru-kun specifically?”

“Well, I like similar shows,” Makoto said. “But Buchimaru-kun just resonates with me. Always has.”

“How come?” Eiko asked.

“I’m not entirely sure,” Makoto said. She noticed one of the posters. “Oh look! Like a Dragon is playing! Are you up for some hard-boiled action?!” Eiko was stunned. “Oh. I guess not.”

“No no no no,” Eiko replied. “I, um, I really like that kind of stuff. But I’ve never told anyone because it doesn’t seem ‘girly’ enough, you know?”

“Hm,” Makoto said. “Well, women can appreciate all sorts of things, right?”

Eiko smiled and blushed. “Yeah.”

They went up to the ticket booth. “Two for Like a Dragon,” Makoto said. They got their tickets, and headed in.

Meanwhile, Ren took Sumire up to Shinjuku. Sumire was a little nervous. “Are you sure about this? Shinjuku isn’t known for its restraint.”

“Trust me,” Ren said. “We’re going straight there, spend a little time, and then we’ll be out. Besides, one of my friends runs it.”

“Well, if it’s one of your friends, I trust you,” Sumire said. They held hands as Ren led the way.

They soon arrived at Chihaya’s fortune telling booth. “Ah, hello,” Chihaya said.

“Hi,” Ren said. “This is… There’s no point in me hiding it, is there?”

Chihaya giggled. “I foretold that you were coming with your lover. So unless there is a boy hiding in the shadows somewhere...”

Ren sighed. “No, you got us.” Chihaya giggled again.

“Um, who is this?” Sumire wondered.

“Oh, forgive me,” Chihaya said. “My name is Chihaya Mifune. I’m a fortune teller.”

“I see,” Sumire said. “And a very good one at that, I can tell.”

“Thanks,” Chihaya said. “And your name?”

“Oh, right,” Sumire said. “I’m Sumire Yoshizawa. Ren’s girlfriend.” She bowed.

“Hm hm,” Chihaya chuckled. “So, what brings you here tonight, of all nights?”

“Well, um, Sumire isn’t 100% in the Halloween spirit, but I convinced her to do something a little fun. So perhaps she could have her fortune read?”

“I see,” Chihaya said. She turned to Sumire. “Are you alright with this?”

“Well, if Ren trusts you, I trust you,” Sumire said.

“Very well,” Chihaya said. She and Sumire set up the reading. Chihaya drew three cards. “I see.” She flipped the first one. “The Fool, upright. It tells that you are about to embark on a new journey.”

“Huh,” Sumire said.

Chihaya flipped the second card. “The Faith, upright. This journey will help you realize your true potential and do away with the lies of the past.”

“I see…” Sumire said.

Chihaya flipped the last part. “The Hunger, in reverse. This journey will end once the forces that try to suppress you are revealed to be nothing more than a shadow of lies and deceit. Only then will the truth come to you.”

“Hmmm,” Sumire said. “Well, that was a little intense…” Ren was a little worried. “But it was interesting.” Ren was relieved. “And given your penchant for seeing the truth, I imagine something like that happening.”

“Do you know what it is?” Chihahya asked.

“I have an idea,” Sumire said. “But it’s rather personal…”

“Say no more,” Chihaya said. “Just know I’ll be rooting for you.”

“Thanks,” Sumire said. “Oh, how much do I owe you?”

“Don’t worry,” Chihaya said. “This one’s on the house.”

Ren was stunned. “But, um, you know?” Sumire was confused.

“Don’t worry,” Chihaya said. “It will be alright in the end.”

Sumire looked at her. “Are you also undertaking a journey?”

Chihaya nodded. “And I know I’m coming up to a crossroads soon. I just have to believe in myself.”

“Well, you know I’m here for you,” Ren said.

“Me too,” Sumire replied.

“Thanks,” Chihaya said. “I think I’m going to need it.” She turned to Ren. “Especially from you.” Ren nodded.

“Um, if you believe in Ren as much as I do,” Sumire noted, “then I think things will go well for you.”

Chihaya giggled. “Well, I can’t believe in her as much as you do.” Sumire slightly blushed. “But I can tell that Ren is a force to be reckoned with.”

“Well, Sumire’s no slouch either,” Ren said.

“I can see that,” Chihaya said. “And if the two of you are together, then you’d be unstoppable.”

Ren smiled and blushed. “Thanks.”

Fortune-Chihaya Mifune: Rank 6

“So, do you want to stay and watch some other fortunes being read?” Ren asked.

“You should go…” Chihaya said. “Not that you wouldn’t be interested, but Halloween in Shinjuku attracts more of the bizarre crowd.”

“I think she’s right,” Sumire said. “But I had fun.”

“Well that’s all I need to hear,” Ren said. “Bye!”

“It was nice meeting you!” Sumire said.

“Bye bye you two!” Chihaya said. Ren and Sumire left. They shared a kiss before getting on the train.

Ryuji and Ann were still out and about having fun. "Man, this is the BEST Halloween I've ever had! Thanks for dragging me out!"

"Hm hm, no problem," Ann said. "To be honest, I think this is the best Halloween I've ever had too."

"No kiddin'?" Ryuji said. "Well, I know one thing that'll make it even better." "You read my mind," Ann said. The two shared a kiss.

As Akechi and Lena were heading back, Lena leaned on Akechi’s shoulder. “Tonight was fun.”

“Indeed,” Akechi replied. “To be honest, I never really liked Halloween before. I didn’t like some of the costumes I was given, but, well, you know why.” Lena chuckled. “And then after getting big, I didn’t have time or couldn’t get a costume to hide me enough” He looked deep into Lena’s eyes. “But tonight was really fun. And I feel like with you, I can enjoy anything.”

“Oh, stop!” Lena said. They were both blushing.

“This is a really nice costume,” Akechi said. “I wonder what you’ll come up with in the future.”

“Right…” Lena said. Do we have a future? Am I going home? She looked up at Akechi. Or is this my home?

Meanwhile, Akechi was distracted with his own thoughts. I can’t let her know I’ll probably be busy. Once the plan is set in motion, I might not have time for big stuff like this. But I’m sure she’ll understand. I just need everything in place.

He looked back at Lena. He leaned in, and Lena met him for a kiss. “Happy Halloween,” Akechi said.

“Happy Halloween,” Lena replied. The two continued onward.

Once Haru got out of the meeting, she got out her phone.

Haru: Everyone! I have some big news!

Haru: The SIU told Okumura Foods to recall its Starfall Coffee venture.

Haru: Something has to be up.

Futaba: Already know!

Futaba: Morgana overheard some police officers talking about it.

Futaba: He said that they heard they were causing the mental shutdowns!

Haru: WHAT?!

Sumire: That’s absurd!

Futaba: Maybe, but nothing about this case is “normal”.

Sumire: I guess you’re right.

Yusuke: Have you talked with Riko yet?

Futaba: Not yet.

Futaba: I was looking over my mom’s notes, and the notes about the director.

Futaba: I lost track of time.

Ren: It’s OK. Now we have something else.

Ren: Something big!

Futaba: Right. I’m on it!

Jose: What else did you find?

Futaba: The director is a very crafty person.

Futaba: His profile is full of twists and turns.

Futaba: I imagine that if he did kill his wife, he’d know how to make it look incidental.

Futaba: As for mom’s notes, I found something interesting.

Futaba: Apparently if you amass enough fame, you can tap into the collective unconscious.

Sumire: Mementos!

Jose: But if whoever killed your mom has these notes…

Futaba: That’s what I figured.

Futaba: We’re not the only ones in there.

Yusuke: Do you think it has anything to do with that body of water?

Futaba: Probably.

Ren: We should check, just to be sure.

Futaba: Right.

Futaba: Anyways, Haru, can you get the schematic for Starfall?

Haru: I don't think so.

Haru: I’m not great with computers to begin with, and I don’t think I’d have access to something like that.

Futaba: Plan B then.

Futaba: Come over, and I’ll give you the Futaba special. I’ll take care of the rest.

Haru: Got it.

Ren: See you all later!

Futaba: Seeya!

Futaba then went to work contacting Riko.

Futaba: Riko!

Futaba: Something big just happened.

Riko: What is it?

Futaba: Did you know that the SIU instructed a recall on Okumura Foods Starfall Coffee?

Riko: I was.

Riko: Sae told me about that.

Futaba: Well, it turns out that it’s because somehow Starfall Coffee is causing the mental shutdowns.

Riko: Oh right.

Riko: The director mentioned that.

Futaba: And you forgot?!

Riko: Forgive me. A lot was happening.

Riko: The fake calling card, Eirs, it was a lot to process.

Futaba: Well, I can’t say I blame you.

Futaba: BUT we have an idea as to how this was being used.

Riko: Go on.

Futaba: Well, looking through my mom’s notes, there’s a special concoction you can make to infiltrate people’s hearts. But you need to get them to ingest the blood of the person infiltrating after they drank it.

Futaba: So I suspect that Starfall Coffee was the means to do just that.

Riko: That seems like a lot.

Futaba: Right, but if this organization is so big to include Madarame, Kaneshiro, Okumura, and Principal Kobayakawa, they may have more numbers at their disposal.

Futaba: You don’t need a lot of blood, you need a lot of people.

Riko: I see.

Riko: Want me to get the schematics for Starfall Coffee?

Futaba: I'm on that on my end.

Futaba: But I do need you to do something.

Riko: What is it?

Futaba: Can you get the file on the murder case involving the director’s son?

Futaba: We suspect that he may have been involved, and that maybe he also murdered his wife.

Riko: Oh my!

Riko: I’m on it!

Riko: Oh, and I have a plan.

Futaba: You do?

Riko: Yeah. I asked Sae last night about what happens if you challenge her.

Riko: She told me that if that happens, she’s confronting the director.

Riko: She believes that once you’re done with her, you’ll meet up with him somehow.

Futaba: So we know where she’ll be.

Riko: And you told me when.

Riko: So all that’s left is to figure out what comes next.

Futaba: Right.

Futaba: Well, regardless, we need a way for Sae to get out.

Futaba: I think I have an idea for that.

Riko: We do need to fish for more information from the director too.

Futaba: Right. Akechi said not to ruffle any feathers until it’s time to strike.

Riko: You’re in contact with Akechi?

Futaba: Tentatively.

Futaba: It’s an uneasy alliance.

Riko: I see.

Riko: Well, regardless, I think I know a way to get some information once things go off.

Futaba: It can't involve us, because we’ll be busy in Sae’s palace.

Riko: Right.

Riko: My plan still works then.

Futaba: Well then, let’s see if our plans can work in tandem.

Riko: OK!

The two of them discussed their plan. Once they finished…

Futaba: Damn! You’re really clever.

Riko: Thanks.

Riko: You’re really smart yourself.

Futaba: Thanks.

Futaba: Now all we have to do is make sure we do well protecting Sae, while also making her see the error of her ways.

Riko: You have my confidence on that front.

Futaba: Thanks.

Futaba: Goodnight!

Riko: Happy Halloween!

Futaba: Happy Halloween!

Riko put her phone away. She began looking through more notes.

Sae came out of her office. Riko looked up. “Oh, how are you doing?”

“I’m feeling great! Sae said. “This upcoming trial will be easy, and soon I’ll have The Phantom Thieves in my grasp. Hm. You know, I saw a bunch of people dress up as Phantom Thieves today. Thinking that they’re heroes.”

“Well hold on,” Riko said. “People dress up as villains too.”

“I guess that’s true,” Sae said.

“Phantom Thieves aside, how do you feel about Halloween?” Riko said. “I wasn’t too big on it as a kid, but when I grew up and could pick what I wanted to dress as, I suddenly got it.”

“A late bloomer, I see,” Sae noted.

“Yeah…” Riko said. “That.”

“Hm,” Sae said. “Well, I’ve always liked Halloween. But lately, I haven’t had the time for it.”

“I see,” Riko said. “It is busy here, huh.”

“Well, there are occasions where things let up,” Sae said. “Last year, I got out of work early and dressed up as a werewolf.”

"Ooo. Spooky," Riko remarked.

“Eh, not really,” Sae said. “It was kind of a last minute thing.”

“Still, I bet it looked great on you!” Riko said.

“Um, yes…” Sae said, slightly blushing. “Anyways, what’s your favorite costume you’ve ever worn?”

“Oh, that’s easy,” Riko said. “One year, I wore this immaculate female Vampire costume. It just felt so GOOD, you know?”

“Hm hm. You didn’t need to add ‘female’ to that,” Sae pointed out.

“Oh, uh, right…” Riko said, nervous. “Well, what about you? What was your favorite costume?”

Sae paused. “Don’t laugh.” She sighed. “It was Makoto’s first Halloween. I wanted to dress up as something spooky, but my parents were worried that would upset Makoto. So they made me wear this Buchimaru-kun costume. I hated it. I was miserable for the first few hours.

But then there was a loud noise. My parents were worried that something bad happened to the neighbors, and rushed outside to check on them, leaving me with Makoto. Suddenly, I was alone with her. Carrying her. I was so nervous. I did my best, but I was so unsure of myself.

But you know what she did? She smiled. That was the first time Makoto smiled at me. My parents came back and assured me that everything was alright. They noticed me taking care of Makoto, and I got to do a lot of things. I fed her. I burped her. I played with her. It was nice.

So that’s why that’s my favorite costume. I don’t know why I’m telling you that. Usually, I say it’s the one time I went as the Black Featherman.”

“Hmmm,” Riko said. “You know, I’m partial to Pink myself.”

“I figured you would be,” Sae said.

“But that story was really sweet,” Riko said. “And don’t worry, I won’t say anything.”

Sae smiled. “Thanks. Let’s go home.” Riko nodded, and the two headed off. As they were leaving, Sae glanced at Riko. Alright Sae. It’s a deal. Once I’ve captured The Phantom thieves, I’m asking her out!

#p5 #p5r #persona 5 #persona fanfiction #persona 5 royal #p5 rework #p5r rework #p5 femc #femc #female ren #ren amamiya #sumire yoshizawa #futaba #makoto niijima #morgana #ryuji sakamoto #ann takamaki #yusuke kitagawa #jose #Lena Minamoto #haru okumaru #hifumi togo #chihaya mifune #sae #akechi

[superlistist]

Title: Majima starts

Fandom: Yakuza

Ship: Kiryu Kazuma x Goro Majima

Word count: 4,490

Tags and notes;

NSFW

The average man after encountering a woman like Goromi would have immediately stood and asked for a refund! To add insult to injury, Goromi herself was particularly peculiar, with a dominant and brash personality. Any man who decides to stay for a chat with such a woman would ask for a refund even if they had even a bit of interest. Despite this, Kazuma Kiryu seems to frequent this location.

He’s a man that doesn’t seem like he would go into these cabaret clubs in the first place. He had looks that could kill, and not in a good way. If not for being paid many of the girls wouldn’t even dare to be paired up with him simply based on his angry demeanor and his shy, dull personality. However, he walked in for the 2nd time this week and opened his wallet.

“Good evening, Kiryu-san” a young man bowed and stood up straight after Kiryu addressed him “Our nightly fee is 3,300 yen. Additional costs will be added” Kiryu nodded and handed over the initial 3,300. The man took it and placed it in the cash register.

“If I may, will you be seeing Goromi tonight?” The man asked. Kiryu nodded defeatedly. Kiryu had an apparent dislike for said butler, Kiryu was sure the man was required to ask who a regular would be seeing, but he could help but feel as though his privacy was being invaded. However he didn’t even have to say anything, that must’ve been the only good thing about such an exchange. He didn’t have to open his mouth and shyly request for Goromi. Sooner rather than later, He was escorted to the back of a comfortable secluded part of the club.

“She will be here shortly” the butler bowed and stepped away. Kiryu exhaled a “thanks” and raised his hand politely to send him off. Once alone he spread his legs and leaned back against the chair comfortably. He crossed his arms and waited, he felt like he had been waiting quite a while at this point, so he opened his eyes and saw none other than Goromi.

“Kiryu-Chan~! Were you sleeping? Why don’t you rest your head?” She pouted and sat down and patted her thigh. Kiryu made a ‘tch’ sound (scoffed) and leaned forward on his knees “Really?”

“Of course! You paid to see me didn’t you?” She giggled and covered her mouth with her hand daintily. Kiryu looked back at Goromi and sighed, so much had happened. The least he could do was finally rest after a long few weeks. Hesitantly he pulled his legs up into the chair and rested his head on her lap. His face relaxed and he crossed his arms comfortably on his chest.

For once Majima was actually quiet. Kiryu didn’t dare look up to see if she was staring back down and only felt when her hands held the sides of his head and rubbed his temples slowly. She pushed her hands through his hair and massaged his scalp, her hands were rough. Of course, Goromi was just Majima in disguise, but at this moment Goromi was a sweet hostess who wanted to aid her client in relaxation.

“Kiryu-Chan,” she said, almost in a whisper

“Mm?” Kiryu replied. He felt her hands move down from his head, to his shoulders and a light squeeze “Will I be getting a tip? You’ve been here for almost an hour.”

Kiryu jerked up and looked at his phone, he had in fact been there for nearly an hour and the receipt was waiting at the table. He picked it up and signed off for the amount he owed. Kiryu took 1,000 yen from his pocket and handed it to her “Oohh?! Kiryu- Chan! You’re so generous!” She laughed and crossed her legs. “Let me walk you out~” she stood and skipped out with Kiryu.

Kiryu didn’t know how to feel. The quiet moments like these were rather… pleasant. Majima was normally a manic man, who at any moment would decide to start a fight. Kiryu could simply walk out in the street and Majima would engage in a fight, Majima’s ‘Kiryu-Chan!’ Haunted him, even hearing him in the streets. But that moment of quiet vulnerability made Kiryu feel ever so slightly…

“Bye-bye ~ make sure to come back Kiryu-Chan~!” Goromi laughed and waved as he left. Kiryu waved and walked off. He didn’t have an apartment and thought he ought to check into a hotel for the night. Serena was safe to visit of course, but he couldn’t go back without the unfortunate memory of Reina… Nishiki.

He pushed his hands into his pocket and felt a small piece of paper, slightly thicker than normal—so this couldn’t be a loose 1,000 yen note. He pulled it out, and saw a thin card, mocking that of a business card with a black and pink front with Goromi’s face along it. Along the lines of meeting Goromi at a hotel, her red lipstick stains on the back of the card. The location of the said hotel was no joke. It was the pinnacle of luxury! 50 stories high of pure bliss, beautiful jade, marbled floors, and breathtaking views and rooms.

He stepped up to the front desk and a woman smiled softly “Goodnight, how may I help you?” Kiryu looked at the card to see that a room number was also listed. He looked up at her and sighed “Someone’s waiting for me in room 2703?”

The woman typed for a moment and then looked up. “Take the elevator to 27. It’s the second room to your left.” She smiled knowingly. Kiryu nodded and did as told. The elevator ride was fast, he felt like he was on the 27th floor in a matter of seconds. He walked out and looked for the second room to his right. He found it and held the doorknob. He sighed softly. The door was unlocked. With a light push, the door swung open.

When he walked in, he was met with Majima’s figure standing by the open window, leaning his upper body out of it and on the window sill. Cigarette smoke puffed from his nose and mouth. Kiryu stepped in and closed the door quietly. “Kiryu Chan? I didn’t think you’d come!” Majima laughed, he was wearing his normal snake-skinned jacket. Lack of shirt and black pants. He walked over and took in a breath of the cigarette “I didn’t have much else to do” Kiryu sat down on the bed and watched Majima lock the door and draw in another breath of his cigarette.

“Not these days yeah? When you’re not in trouble it makes me so happy!” Majima sat down beside him, looking at him with a sadistic endearment. Kiryu raised his brow ever so slightly “oh?”

“When you’re not fighting others I have more chances to fight you!” He laughed and calmed down shortly after. He offered his cigarette to Kiryu who looked at it for a moment, a light pink stain on the lip of it “What?” Kiryu looked at the cigarette in confusion and slight disgust in sharing a cigarette.

Majima walked forward and shrugged “Guess you didn’t want none” he stood up and pushed the cigarette into the side of the building, throwing the butt out the window and closing it. “I wanted you to come over for a reason Kiryu-Chan”

Majima slipped his shoes off and sat down on the bed. He looked at Kiryu and grabbed his thigh. Kiryu didn’t move his thigh away but looked at his hand and then at majima who seemed rather straight-faced “I’m not gay, Kiryu-Chan”

“Okay…?” Kiryu responded with a confused look. He too removed his shoes and sat more comfortably in the bed. It was majima’s turn to scoff and eased up further into the bed “Just come here” patted his lap and Kiryū let out a chuckle

“Did you enjoy-“ “Kiryu-Chan!” Majima grew impatient, Kiryu rested his head in his lap, his clothes had a welcoming musk, maybe from his cologne, but it was different from the sweet plastic smell of Goromi’s dress, That cheap smelling perfume of her wig, and likely the nail polish that was allegedly scented. Kiryu left his hands comfortable on his stomach, and majima rubbed his temples again.

Based on Majima's silence he must’ve enjoyed doing this too. Over the 10 years, he was gone, Majima had visibly hardened, of course, he aged and was a (to an extent)Mature older man, the pain and suffering he went through to reach his breaking point were apparent now more than ever. Kiryu never made him speak on it, there was no need.

His hands were firm against each side of his face, Kiryu slightly opened his eyes- at that moment felt a tenderness against his lips. Not that of fingers or even his chest or shoulder, but one that was plush and moist. Kiryu didn’t move and closed his eyes again, moving his hands up to Majima's wrists.

Majima was surely kissing him, but Kiryū couldn’t kiss for shit and laid there with his mouth closed… After a few moments of majima kissing against his lips, he pulled back and held his forearms, flipping him over. “God- are you a virgin Kiryu-Chan?!” Majima made a light growling sound and Kiryū nodded “I never had the time to have… sex”

“That’s what they all say, or are you too shy..?” Majima lifted a brow and laughed and motioned for kiryu to sit in closer. He obliged and sat ever so slightly closer. “Follow after me~” majima wrapped his hand with a slightly uncomfortable squeeze around the front of Kiryu’s throat

Kiryu nodded and moved closer. Their lips joined and majima started, the kiss at first was slow. Kiryu only knew loosely how to kiss from what Shinji had shown him years ago, but it was never anything intense, it seemed to be just pecking, but Majima wouldn’t settle for childish kisses like that. He made use of Kiryu’s Inexperience and used his other hand to hold the back of his head. Tilting his head ever so slightly.

Kiryu had never thought he would end up like this with a man, let alone Goro majima. Despite this, though he felt a weird connection, it was intimate and similar to the love he felt for a woman he once loved, however, Majima acted on it- and executed the acts well. Kiryu placed his hand on Majima’s cheek and the other firmly on the bed frame. Majima grinned and snickered against his lips. Kiryu opened his mouth to respond, but Majima instead pulled them closer to force their mouths together.

Kiryu gasped and practically choked on majima’s tongue, he pulled his head back and stared at majima, who was laughing like the mad dog he was “Aww! Don’t be upset Kiryu-Chan!” He laughed and punched him slightly in his stomach. “No Frenchie then~ that’s fine, why don’t we try something else”

Kiryu looked at him with furrowed brows “Majima-San… what are you going to do”

“Hmm?” He had a smirk on his face, he answered as though his eyes were lit up, Kiryu knew that there was definitely something up his sleeve, whatever it was Kiryū would have to be the first one to see it. Not that there was anyone else in the room to be subject to Majima's schemes, but the point still stood that Kiryu swallowed down the uncertainty that he had whenever Majima was in a mood like this.

The two stared for a long moment before Majima touched Kiryu again, this time a hand was on his waist, and another cupped his crotch, causing Kiryū to immediately bat away his hands “hey, hey what are you doing?!” Kiryu raised his voice and Majima stared at him angrily “Kiryu-Chan. Do you know why I gave you that note? I thought you were interested!” Majima’s eyes narrowed and Kiryū turned his face away, their positions shifting.

“I’ve never had sex majima-San” Kiryu looked at Majima once again who now had his arms crossed “So I can be your first!”

Kiryu went quiet again, to say he wasn’t interested or at least turned on would be a bald-faced lie. However, a man like Kiryu had never gone out of his way to make lasting friendships and relationships. Outside the few people he used to have, Majima and his fighting spirit seemed to be the only thing he had left after all those years ago. Not only would it be rude to turn him down, but he’d also be denying that any part in this made butterflies begins to stir in his stomach.

Kiryu shifted further in the bed next to Majima. Who turned his head and swung his legs as if he were getting out of bed. “So what are we gonna just sit here all night?” Majima said, having a sudden attitude shift “Majima-san, please don’t leave… I'm willing to try with you”

“Yay! That’s all you had to say, Kiryu-Chan!” Majima turned around sweetly and placed his hand back on Kiryu’s crotch, Majima pressed a kiss to his cheeks and his nose, kissing his forehead and giggling. “I wonder~ have you ever touched yourself at all, Kiryu?”

“I have, not recently” Kiryu watched his hand move, Majima using the palm of his hand to grind against his balls made him grunt a little bit, the action itself was slightly unpleasant but it felt good he sat up on his elbows to watch with a strange awe. Majima’s hands were working wonders, at one point the palming was rough enough to cause Kiryū to let out a staggered moan.

“Do you like that Kiryu-Chan?” Majima asked all too sweetly, getting rid of his suit jacket and leaving him in his red button-up. “Yeah, I do..” Kiryu responded, watching as Majima got rid of his clothes. Eventually, under Majima, Kiryu was now left stripped to just his boxers, while Majima was almost entirely clothed.

“You’re hard now Kiryu-Chan~ I wonder what little Kiryū looks like” Majima teased and wrapped his hand around the length of his cock, rubbing it through the fabric of his underwear, Kiryu’s hips shifted in a response to this friction, Kiryu’s hand moved to Majima’s wrist as a sign for him to stop, and he obliged “It’s an acquired taste I suppose!” Majima stood to undress himself as well.

Majima was slightly smaller and shorter than Kiryu, he had a smaller flatter chest, and his back- while small, was nothing to ignore. The main event was the tattoo he sported that was practically his whole backside. Kiryu didn’t know until now that the tattoo didn’t finish until his thighs, to him it was likely the most impressive tattoo he had seen, even more so than his own; with the dragon sporting astonishing intricacy and detail.

Majima must’ve been doing a strip tease, Kiryu noticed how Majima sashayed his jacket off his shoulders, played with the belt as he slipped it off, and pulled his pants down slowly- bending his back to force his ass outward. “Do you like what you see Kiryū Chan~?”

“Majima-San” kiryu said critically, wanting him to hurry up. He sighed and finished before crawling over to him and seating himself in his lap “For your first time why don’t I teach you hmm?” Majima grinned and slowly rocked his hips against Kiryu. The grinding was similar to the palming, except it was Majima’s ass and hips rather than just his hand. He gasped and moaned as Majima roughly bounced his hips onto his cock, the barrier between them is just two layers of cloth. He was sensitive and vulnerable. The pleasant friction caused Majima to let out a moan of excitement “ha ~ Kiryu-Chan you’re awfully naughty~” laughing, Majima bent down over him “I wonder what you’ll sound like if I fucked your cock hmm? Would you moan and whine like a little bitch!”

Kiryu placed his hands on Majima’s waist and squeezed softly. Majima sat up straight and smiled “Kiryu-chan, fuck me, will you? I’ll teach you how to do it” Majima shifted off and pushed his hand into Kiryu’s boxers, pulling out his cock, he gawked at the size and leaned down to press a kiss to its head, it was hot and already rather hard, Kiryu clearly couldn’t take such intimate sexual attention, his cock practically leaking precum just by the dry humping and grinding. However, he nodded and supported his dick, by wrapping his hand around the base of his cock.

“I’ll teach you what to do to me~ look, look watch carefully” Majima took the head of Kiryu's cock in his mouth, shifting and holding the back of Kiryū’s thighs- like a scene from one of the many eroticas Shinji had shown him. However, if he was doing this to Majima that meant he would have been playing the girl, whereas Kiryū would play the man.

Kiryu grunted and nodded “yeah. I got it, lay down” Majima made a sweet face “Ouuu~ you know how to do it already it seems!” Majima laid down and gave him a slightly difficult time parting his legs. Kiryu added his things too, kissing and biting the inside of his thigh, which wasn’t as soft as Shinji made It seem, though Shinji was always referring to a woman. Who likely hadn’t faced the violent atrocities majima ever had. A woman who was delicate, dainty, and thin, unlike Majima’s muscled thighs.

Kiryu rocked off Majima’s boxers and pressed his lips to his balls, kissing them nervously before moving to take his cock in his mouth. He looked at it, it seemed to be slightly girthier than average but his length was decently impressive, being practically 6 inches. He took the head of his cock in his mouth with great hesitance. Majima fought the urge to hold his hair and force him down. “Kiryu Chan I’m not a Lolly pop, you have to move” Majima held the underside of his chin to coax him into moving his head, pulling him off slightly and then moving back up into his mouth.

Kiryu nodded and followed the instructions. “I’d love to take a picture of you~ you look so concentrated while you suck my cock~” Majima moved his hips with the rhythm of Kiryu’s mouth. “With some practice, your cute little mouth would be better than the ones in a glory hole don’t you think?” Majima inquired, softly groaning as Kiryu sucked, he seemed to just be moving his head, not fully understanding that the pleasure of a blow job was surely more than what Kiryū was offering. Majima however rubbed through his hair despite this, grinning down at him.

“Do you know what anal sex is?” Kiryu moved his head up and nodded, “Well it's the only way for us to have penetrative sex, I’m gonna teach you how to do it!”

Kiryu seemed turned off somewhat quickly to watch Majima roll his eyes “I’m clean down there gosh Kiryu-chan!” Majima laid fully on his back and held his thighs back, giving Kiryu a decently good view of his assets. Majima leaned forward, taking his hand to his entrance and looking up at him

“Put your finger inside of me~ if you can’t just use my glove I’m horny Kiryu-Chan!” Majima whined, and Kiryu's cheeks were a deep red. He pushed his finger inside and watched majima’s reaction, his body softened and he let out a groan. Between them was hot, and Majima was practically sweating against the fabric of the cotton sheets. Kiryu couldn’t help but wonder if sex was meant to be this rough.

“Do you need lube Kiryu-chan?” Majima looked up and asked leaning forward and grabbed a black bottle. The bottle was opened and a thick clear substance poured down beneath where they were connected. “Fuck Me with your finger, won’t you? Make sweet love to my ass with your hand~ Kiryu-Chan~” Majima hummed and stared up at him. Kiryu nodded hesitantly and worked his finger inside.

His walls were tight, and with the help of the lube, wet and pliable. If this was anything like fucking a girl kiryu was more confident in himself now. He boldly pushed in another finger and bent them slightly, fucking him in and out slowly. “Haa~ Kiryu-Chan that feels good keep doing that~” Majima praised and threw a hand over his face, such a blissed-out expression from Majima! Kiryu was practically cumming already, and the face only brought him to his breaking point. He held back the best he could and chewed his lip.

The fingering went on for a few more minutes, till Kiryu’s hand began to cramp. Majima rolled over on his stomach “I have a condom~ but It feels better raw” Majima held his cheeks apart and rubbed his pucker with a finger. “It’s time to put your dick in Kiryu-Chan” his voice was sing-song-like, almost as though he was teasing and mocking Kiryu.

Kiryu exhaled and nodded “yeah…” he thoughtfully kissed his ass, moving his face to in between his cheeks, and kissing his entrance, Majima must’ve been surprised and he tensed around Kiryu’s tongue, it took him several seconds to release such a tight hold and dropped his head to the pillows. Kiryu had his way with him, Majima’s ass up and taut in the air while he pushed his face into the pillow and let out guttural moans.

Kiryu didn’t stay for long and moved upward, pouring lube over his cock and working it down the length, he breathed slowly, and aligned with his entrance. He had a firm grip on Majima's waist with the other hand, and once sheathed exhaled a moan. Both were quiet, connected at such an intimate level. Majima shook slightly and came onto the sheets, feeling Kiryu’s cum inside of him as well, Majima reached forward and held Kiryu's hand “Do you know how to do it? Fuck me hard Kiryū Chan~ I’m not made of glass majima purred. Made of glass? If anything, majima must’ve been made of titanium. However, he nodded without a second thought and began to thrust.

Majima didn’t moan all that much, not overdoing it when it came to the sounds and moans he made, however, he cursed and moaned softly as Kiryu’s hips slapped back into the plump of Majima's ass. Their sex wasn’t particularly to Majima's liking. He reached back and slapped Kiryu’s thigh “fuck me harder kiryu Chan!” Majima complained and bitched.

Kiryu sighed and pulled out most of the way, before slamming himself back in, causing the bed to creak and jerk “like that?” majima gasped and laughed with a sickening sweetness “yes! Oh fuck kiryu Chan~” majima laughed and nodded “like that don’t stop” he got up a little bit, being able to now be on his knees like kiryu, he rested his head back in his shoulder, majima supporting himself by holding into Kiryu’s hands.

“Majima-san..” kiryu moaned into his ear and continued his attempt at fucking him rough, especially in this position. Majima fucked back, pushing his hips against him and closing his eyes “Kiryu Chan! I wanna cum from your cock~ go faster will you?~” majima begged, kiryu obliged as usual, fucking into him faster than he had been, though the roughness decreased slightly.

“Majima-San I need to cum…” Kiryu held onto his chest and watched Majima laugh and enjoy himself “cum then! Cum inside~” he laughed and looked over his shoulder “Claim me would you~ make me yours~” Kiryu closed his eyes as the teasing continued, after a few hard thrusts, Kiryu spilled his seed again inside of majima.

The two caught their breath and were quiet and breathless. “Oh… kiryu Chan I feel amazing~ I’m yours~” majima rested against kiryu, who was growing soft inside of majima. Kiryu breathed shallowly and nodded “mm… that was good majima-San… I haven’t ever felt that way before, or done that”

“Oh, I can tell! You were awfully sloppy” Majima moved off and stood, going to the bathroom and staying in there for almost half an hour. Kiryu in the meantime fixed up their dirty bed and shook a cigarette out of Majima's pack. Lighting it and smoking while he waited for majima.

He came from the bathroom a while later, still naked but now damp. He lay beside Kiryū and kissed his bicep. Kissing up and down his arms and cupping his pectoral “is it your turn kiryu Chan~” “huh?!”

Majima laughed and shook his head “I’m only kidding! Another day though~maybe I can get goromi to fuck you good~” he laughed, taking the cigarette and drew in a long breath, moving up to kiss kiryu and breathed into his mouth, the smoke releasing between them. Kiryu closed his eyes at this and let Majima do as he pleased.

“You’re the only man I’ve ever wanted to do that with, Kiryu Chan” Majima rested his head on the pillow, shifting so his back was to Kiryū. Kiryu hummed “really?”

“Mm.” He hummed and grew quiet. Kiryu figured Majima was asleep. He shifted over and wrapped an arm around him. Closing his eyes and sighing. The room was quiet for a while, kiryu basking in the comfort of silence, in the warmth of Majima’s body. His fingers grazed over his chest smoothly, thumbing his nipple.

Kiryu closed his eyes and moved his nose to the crook of his neck. “Kiryu-Chan, have you ever fallen in love?” Majima suddenly asked. Kiryu moved slightly to answer “She’s gone now”

Majima rolled over to face Kiryu, and the two stared at each other, Kiryu sporting a generally flat expression. But majima placed his hands on his temples, rubbing and watching his face soften. Majima smiled and let out a silent laugh “you’re like a dog, hmm kiryu Chan?” He raised a brow and squinted his eyes ever so slightly “you like it when I massage your face don’t you”

Kiryu shifted slightly and pulled a pillow under his head, he smirked “yeah it’s nice, been a while since I could just be… normal” he rested again, the tattoo along his back was a sign he would never be the normal man he wanted to be. Its inks were embedded into his back, he carried it around like the heaviest trophy, a sign of his pride yet the thing that seemed to weigh him down more than the deaths of his loved ones.

Majima rested his face in the sheets “sometimes I wish I had an eye under here” he snorted a laugh. And Kiryū let out a soft chuckle “you never told me how you lost it” As a response Majima shook his head and pulled the sheets over his shoulders “that ain’t your business Kiryu-Chan!” Kiryu laughed and kissed his forehead “sorry”

#yakuza #majima goro #yakuza kiryu #majima x kiryu

[fellhellion]

No, dude, I get it!

I just meant like really deep down. Like, he does have a desire to be saved but he's repressed it over these years being stuck as Shido's hitman whether it be he believes he can't be saved or just doesn't deserve to be saved. I don't think he even realises he feels that way anymore. I just think that wish is still, just buried way, way, way down under all the rest of the bullshit he's got going on in there

Just... This boy needs a therapist, good lord. Preferably a non reality rewriting one.

fkdsfhjksd actually this ask reawakened my memories of fucking. proof of justice. and ur def onto something there w the shitty self esteem. go to THERAPY gayboy, but not the reality shattering kind

#ask games #anon #goro feelings in the chat tonight.... #Anonymous

[senagune]

very, very specific miraculous ladybug shuake au. like. a little too specific then i wrote out a whole chunk

It's often times like these that Akira doesn't know quite how to respond to Chat Noir's blatant flirting. Akira finds it hard to look into his face, all sharp smiles and smirks, an arch of the eyebrow in a challenge, and say no, so Akira diverts attention instead. Points at an Akuma, or that his Miraculous is running out, or that he's got something to rush to, so see you around Chat, and Akira darts away from Chat before he has the chance to say anything else.

But in this situation where they're just patrolling in the silence of Shibuya, darting from rooftop to rooftop with nothing but the night winds blowing in their faces, Akira rubs a finger around his miraculous, a teardrop-shaped pendant that hangs around his neck. He can almost hear Arsene; you need to put your foot down once and for all, Akira, he'd probably say. Then again, Arsene has tried to reason with Akira that if he's not comfortable with the constant flirting because of his crush on Akechi then he definitely needs to say it. 

After all, Ladybug has to draw the line somewhere.

"Mon cheri," Chat starts with a well-practiced smirk as he spins on one of the rooftops with one leg before sliding into a deep bow, "tonight's Shibuya dims in your presence."

There it is; the odd twinge that startles Akira's heart whenever Chat says anything remotely flirty. It feels wrong, to lead him on when he already has his eyes on another boy that's not Chat. Maybe, in another world where Akechi Goro doesn't exist, then Akira will be smitten with this mysterious boy with his bright ruby eyes and side-swept brown hair and the charmingly silly puns. But he can't keep sweeping Chat's feelings aside. 

"Chat," Akira says, tone hard in a way that makes Chat pause. He sees the way Chat almost frowns, how he masks it in a more neutral expression, head cocked to one side. "I'm sorry, I can't keep leading you on."

Now, there's a question in Chat's eyes, crystal clear.

"I already like someone else," Akira continues, and pushes down the lurch in his stomach when Chat's face visibly falls before it flips startlingly quickly into a joking smile. The turn of expressions was so abrupt that Akira almost gets a chill; instead of Chat's usual jester-like grin, the smile looks pasted on, practiced and saccharine. Akira has known Chat long enough to recognise his usual smiles, and this one is far from it. "Chat-"

"Ah, I apologise, mon cheri," Chat says in a carefree tone, like Akira's words didn't affect him at all, "I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable." There's a sharp glint in his eyes as his tone turns jovial. "May I know who's the lucky person to earn your affection?"

"Akechi Goro." Akira knows that he probably shouldn't bring Akechi Chat's wrath, but he trusts Chat enough not to go after him. Hopefully. He shouldn't tell him at all, honestly, but something pushes at Akira to tell Chat anyways. It's not like Chat would know who Akechi is.

The change in expression is even more startling this time as Chat's face undergoes a rapid series of emotions that Akira almost doesn't catch; shock, surprise, sadness, anger, and then settling on the increasingly frustrating neutral. "I see." His tone is clipped, careful to remove any emotion. "Why?"

"Why?" Akira repeats. Chat isn't usually the kind to push for information like this; just a line or two poking at his identity, but never more. 

"Yes, why." Akira can sense the bit of anger in Chat's tone as he locks eyes with Akira, something that he hasn't encountered before. It doesn't sound like an anger directed at Ladybug or even Akechi but something more. A hysterical laugh bubbles out of Chat and all Akira can do is stare at him in shock. "Why him of all people? All charms and fake smiles and -" He chokes off mid-sentence and gulps. 

And then, his face flips into a pleasant smile once again, like nothing had occurred. "I'm sorry, I understand why. Of course you'd like that." With a bow, he turns away from Akira. "Have a good night, mon cheri." 

"Wait, Chat-" Akira reaches a hand out to Chat, but he's leapt off into the distance far too quickly, slipping through. Akira sighs, and runs a hand through his hair, messing it up again. 

#shuake #akeshu #akechi goro #goro akechi #akira kusuru #p5 #p5r #my writing #ficlet #hana said ml shuake au and my brain went into overload mode and this was born #there's more that i wrote on a whim but its kind of ooc I'll only post it if u guys want more

[yusuke-of-valla]

Two Knights' Tango

Whumptober Day 1 Prompt: "You Have To Let Go"

Summary: Akechi remebers the truth of their current reality.

Word Count: 1303

TW: Cursing, Third Semester Bad End, Akechi being Akechi

AO3

Ren knows that his plans for a peaceful evening with his friends are ruined the second Goro walks in with that smile on his face.

It’s been a while since Goro -- no, Akechi, he is Akechi right now -- has put on that mask. A smile like daggers that doesn’t reach his eyes, his whole body tense with rage at everyone around him. He takes his usual seat at the counter and stares at Ren expectantly.

Ren, uninterested in having this conversation, takes his time making his coffee.

“What do you think?” Ren asks, passing a mug down to Akechi. A floating facsimile of how Morgana used to look smiles up at him, and Akechi makes a face that gives Ren the hilarious mental image of the Detective Prince punching a mug. “Yusuke’s been helping me practice latte art. It’s not as good as his but--”

“What the hell do you think is going on here?” Akechi growls.

“Well it’s Thursday, so we’re chatting before our usual study session with--”

Akechi grabs Ren by the shirt and pulls him close so their faces are inches apart. Despite knowing better, Ren can’t help but hope Akechi will claw his eyes out or something. Really let loose this time.

Instead Akechi lets him go after a second. “Why did you take the deal?” he asks.

Ren locks eyes with him. “Because otherwise you’d die, idiot, and despite what you think I should do, I care about your life.”

“Oh you care,” Akechi spits out. “Of course, that’s why you’ve forced us all to stay in this make believe world you and that damned doctor have cooked up.”

“I mean Maruki does most of the work,” Ren says, “I just play along.”

Akechi slams his fist on the table. “How are you so damn calm about this? Changing people against their will, forcing them to live a life you decided for them? What happened to the righteous leader of the Phantom Thieves?”

“I thought you hated that guy.”

“I will stab you.”

“Couldn’t even if you actually wanted to.”

“Oh yeah? Try me.”

“No,” Ren says, taking a sip out of Akechi’s latte. “You literally can’t. Haven’t you noticed the lack of work, detective?”

“Because Maruki won’t allow it?” Akechi hisses out. “And you’re ok with that?”

Ren shrugs, and Akechi looks legitimately taken about.

“W-what is wrong with you? You don’t even regret it? Sumire is dead because of you. Her heart may be beating but the personality of Sumire, the girl who looked up to you, is gone and replaced with some idealized shadow of a person who never existed. Your friends decided to reject this reality purely because you asked them to, and you just dragged them back-”

“They chose it first,” Ren says with a bitterness he didn’t think he still had. He should probably talk to Maruki about that.

“That’s not what happened and you know it,” Akechi replies. “Maruki never gave anyone a choice. No one except you. ”

“You asked me if I regretted anything?” Ren says. “Of course I do, I regret so many many things. But there’s nothing to be done now.”

“So you’re giving up? You can’t muster the courage to fight Maruki and-”

Ren hates this part.

“Use your fucking brain for once instead of trying to fight all of your problems, Akechi!” Ren snaps. “If this was just Maruki changing the past, this place would be unsustainable. People die, people get hurt, and people hurt each other. Sometimes they hurt each other without malicious intent, which is a bitch because then making everyone happy is impossible and it’s hard to predict when those cases are going to happen. Fixing everything the first time was hard enough, imagine having to do that over and over again with every little issue that could possibly upset someone as time passes.”

Goro’s eyes widen in realization. “So to make sure everything stays perfect Maruki would have to preserve things?””

“Pretty much the only way to do his whole thing without going crazy after the first decade or so.”

Goro takes a breath to steady himself. “And how, exactly, do you know this? Isn’t it just a hypothetical at this poi-”

“How long have you been a third year?”

Akechi opens his mouth to answer automatically, then stops and thinks about it. His hands ball into fists. “How long have we been here? In this reality. How long has this been going on, Ren?” he asks.

Ren shrugs. “Like I told you the last time we had this conversation, I haven’t been inclined to keep track.”

“The last time-- we’ve had this conversation before ?”

“Yep. You don’t exactly take it well, and that pings Maruki and then he, you know” Ren waves his hands in Akechi’s face, “makes you happy.”

Akechi grits his teeth but takes a deep breath. “So how come you remember?”

“Because a long, long time ago I signed a contract that said I’d take full responsibility for my actions,” Ren says, “and I didn’t realize what that really meant. Maruki’s tried to help but I guess there are some things even he can’t do.”

“Then why don’t you try and get back to our own reality?” Akechi asks.

“Because it’s gone. Mementos, it felt huge, but it really only affected Tokyo. I’m sure you’ve figured that out since we’ve only ever heard from targets in the city.”

“Which means Maruki’s reality only affected Tokyo.”

“Finally he puts it together!” Ren applauds.

“Don’t mock me. So while we’ve been here...”

“The rest of the world has moved on. Or destroyed itself. Who really knows. Either way the world we knew is gone,” Ren says, “What if I just condemn everyone to something worse?”

“So you’re just going to hide?”

“I already made a choice to get everyone stuck here. I can’t just change my mind-”

“You already did that when you accepted the deal!”

“And that was a mistake! You want me to just repeat it?” Ren snaps. “God damn it, Akechi. Even if we can break out of here, something that will be much harder than it was back then, who the fuck knows what we’re going back to. Maybe everything’s been destroyed, maybe World War III started. What? You want me to just repeat my mistakes and condemn everyone to something worse?

“It’s not just your choice! Don’t the others deserve a say in which reality they want to live in?”

“They’re fine not knowing. They’re happy either way.” Ren runs a hand through his hair. He’s worked up, again. Why? Why is he always angry when they get to this part? They've had this conversation so many times now -- it never changes -- and it still gets to him. “Just, let go, Goro. Give up on going back. I wish I could.” With that, Ren puts his apron on the counter and heads upstairs, phone out to tell the others to cancel for tonight. “Switch the sign around on your way out.”

~

“So, he’s not going to help us?” Sumire asks when Goro finishes the recording for the others.

Goro shrugs. “He’s given up. Do the rest of you want to continue without your fearless leader?”

An awkward silence settles over the small laundromat that they’d decided to meet in.

Then Haru steps up, eyes burning. “I will reclaim my future,” she says. “Or die trying.”

Slowly but surely, everyone else agrees. Goro doesn’t dare think about the relief that fills his chest at the thought of the others being willing to help him. They’re allies with a united goal, that's all. Besides, he could have done it without them.

A few feet away, hidden in the branches of the tree, a blue butterfly watches. It feels hope for the first time in a long while.

#whumptober2021 #no.1 #you have to let go #persona 5 #p5r #fic #cursing #alto writes #goro akechi #ren amamiya #shuake #akeshu #more platonic but whatever #word count: 1000-1500 #bad end #'alto how many variations on this are you going to write' AS MANY AS I WANT #queuety and vice

[ultimate-prosecrastinator]

Goro Week!

Day 1: Favorite Scene//The Scene You Look Forward To Most In The Anime

(I’ve always liked the infamous “Honey I’m Home” Justice Rank 4 scene, so I’ve done my take on it, plus a few embellishments after the fact. As in the game, Akechi just wouldn’t stop talking, so I’ve put most of it under the cut.)

“Honey, I’m home.”

Akechi glances up from his coffee cup to the door, where Akira stands. At the sight of the other boy, he smiles softly, replying “You’re home awfully late.” before turning back to ask Sakura-san about the shop. He’s pleased to see Akira arrive before he left for the night, but it’s best not to seem too eager. He’s chatting about nothing in particular with Sakura-san when the he hears it.

“What are your thoughts, Representative Shido?”

His grip tightens slightly around his coffee cup, but he’s careful to avoid any other tells as he raises it nonchalantly to take a sip. To the outside eye, it appears as though he’s merely listening in interest to the interview, but internally, he’s seething. As if that man gives a damn about this country, or anything other than his own ego. Not that Akechi does either, but he’s not the one parading around Japan in an attempt to get elected. It’s revolting. If he didn’t have his own business with the man, perhaps Akechi would request the Phantom Thieves go after him. That could have its own satisfaction, for Masayoshi Shido to be taken down by the very Phantom Thieves he keeps telling the people he will handle. Akechi continues to listen.

“…This is an important undertaking, and one I intend to confront with every asset available to me.”

“Every asset, hm? I suppose he believes that to mean me. For now, at least.” Akechi mutters under his breath. Realizing again where he is, he tunes out the television in favor of the conversation in front of him between the other patron of the coffee shop and its owner.

“…It feels like a trustworthy leader for Japan has finally come forth. Don’t you think, Boss?”

By some miracle, Akechi avoids laughing out loud. If only they knew. Ah, well, best not to dwell on it at the moment. He turns back toward Sakura-san and Akira, who he notices hasn’t left his spot in front of the door, and who is looking a bit unwell. Strange. He recovers quickly enough though, as Akechi directs the conversation towards him, “’Criminals’, hm…? Well, that must be how he sees it. However, that is ignorant of their true nature.”

“You’re on the Thieves’ side?”

Akechi laughs at that, “It may be somewhat of a stretch to say I’m “on their side”. Having said that, I won’t deny that I empathize with them on some level. If this Okumura incident was not the Phantom Thieves…If they only change the hearts of criminals…Then even though they can’t be considered “innocent’, perhaps my goals are not so different from theirs.”

He catches the curious look coming from the other boy, “But they are innocent.”

Akechi can’t help but laugh again. Yes, this is why he consistently finds himself returning to this coffee shop, despite it being fairly out of the way of his usual route home. Akira is always so interesting, so honest, so authentic, so…unlike himself. “I knew there was something special about you, ever since the first time we met. I feel as though I could tell you anything during our conversations.”

And as he says it, Akechi realizes that it’s true. He could tell Akira everything, and he has the feeling the other boy wouldn’t bat an eye. It’d be interesting to hear his thoughts on the situation, to stay and talk late into the evening, just the two of them….ah, but that’s a dangerous thought now. Best to change the subject and make his exit.

“Oh by the way, I’m sure you know this already, but I’ve been invited to a panel at Shujin Academy. Considering it’s such a good opportunity, I’ve decided to accept the offer. I hope to see you there.”

He’s pleased to see an expression of slight surprise from the other boy, along with something else….pleasure? Perhaps he’s simply reading too much of it.

He stands to leave, nodding at Sakura-san, “Thank you for the coffee. It was delicious.”

Sojiro nods back, “I’m glad you liked it.”

He turns to Akira, “I’m happy I could see you. I’ll be going now.”

“…Don’t.”

He’s halfway through the door when he hears it, and turns back in surprise, not quite sure he’s heard correctly, “I’m sorry?”

Akira is staring at him earnestly, as if searching for something. “Stay. The shop will be closing soon, and I have something I’d like to get your thoughts on.”

Akechi, curious, returns to his seat and gives Akira a look. “…Very well then. I suppose I do have time.”

Shortly after, the other customer takes his leave, and Sakura-san closes up the shop, telling Akira, “I’m going home for the night, don’t forget to clean up and lock the door after your friend is gone.”

Then he too leaves, and Akechi can’t help but feel strange being in the shop after the owner has gone home. Being alone here with Akira feels intimate in a way that makes him slightly uncomfortable. He’s too used to letting his guard down slightly while he’s here, and is acutely aware of how dangerous that is now. “So, what is it you wanted to speak to me about?”

Akira waves him off, “First, I have something I’d like you to try. You’ll have to bear with me for a bit though.”

Akechi watches absently as the other boy slides his apron over his head and cinches it at the waist before going into the kitchen. He glances briefly into the kitchen, and after being waved off again by Akira decides to settle in and read over one of his new cases.

A short while later he’s pulled from his work by a plate being placed in front of him. He looks at for a moment, before looking up at the person who placed it there. “Pancakes?”

Akira tugs slightly at his bangs, a nervous habit Akechi has noticed he does when he’s not quite confident in his actions. It’s a gesture he hasn’t seen very often. “Well, yeah. You mentioned them when we first met, and you seem to have a bit of a sweet tooth, so I figured I’d try my hand at them.” He’s looking at Akechi somewhat hesitantly, as if silently asking, “no good?”

At that, Akechi can’t help but smile. If Akira didn’t seem so genuine, he’d wonder about the motives of the other boy. He takes a bite and lets out a small sound of surprise. They’re better than he’d expected. “As always, you continue to surprise me. They’re quite good.”

They chat idly for a bit, Akira asking questions about Akechi’s work and Akechi talking him through a bit of the investigative process and how he makes his deductions. After a while, Akechi, feeling quite comfortable now, decides to push his luck and be a bit honest, albeit vaguely. “I know you probably find this a tired subject between us by now, but would you indulge me for a moment?”

Akira nods, and Akechi continues. “You have my thanks. You seem so definitively sure that the Phantom Theives are not the ones behind these psychotic breakdowns and mental shutdowns, and at the moment I’m inclined to agree with you. But let’s say, for the sake of argument, they are behind them. And that they were using such a method rather than this ‘change the hearts’ on their victims thus far. Their results being the same, the elimination of members of society they deem criminal…Were that the case, I wonder, would you still defend them?”

The other boy is silent a while, thoughtful. After a few moments, he shakes his head. Akechi finds himself feeling slightly disappointed, until he hears Akira’s response. “Defend…no. In that case, I wouldn’t necessarily say they’re innocent. But if the cops and others who are in a position to help are doing nothing…I can’t say I would disagree with them entirely.”

Akechi thinks on that a moment, before deciding to push a little further, “Even if you were to learn that their ultimate aim was not in fact reforming society, but more selfish means? For personal gain that just happened to coincide with those committing atrocities on society?”

Akira simply shrugs, “Everyone has different reasons. I believe in them.”

Such a casual response sets something off in him, and Akechi bristles, suddenly inexplicably furious. “How?! How can you claim you would support them in any capacity, were that the case?! They’re nothing but disgusting trash, and deserve to be brought to justice.”

If Akira’s surprised by the outburst he doesn’t show it. He simply pours more coffee into Akechi’s mug. Akechi resists the urge to throw it in his face. That calm look Akira is giving him is unsettling, eyes boring into him as if Akira himself could change Akechi’s heart right here, in this moment. Akechi takes a breath, a smile returning to his face, obviously forced. “I apologize…that was childish of me.”

Akira gives him a genuine smile in return, “You’re passionate about it. I’m glad to hear your real thoughts on the subject. For someone who enjoys our conversations, you tend to run out whenever I show up, so it’s a nice change.”

Akechi has composed himself enough by then to look embarrassed at that. Of course, he’d been aware of it, but he hadn’t realized Akira noticed. He simply preferred to keep their meetings under his control. For obvious reasons, if tonight was any indication.

Seeing his expression, Akira laughs, “Don’t worry about it. You just always leave so suddenly, it’s almost as if you’re afraid of me.”

Akechi’s not quite sure how to take that. Of course he’s not afraid, but it does unnerve him how in such a short amount of time this other boy has managed to get under his skin. At this point, he’s not entirely sure who has the upper hand between the two of them. It’s unsettling, infuriating, and thrilling all at once, but also a dangerous distraction from his goals. However, he’s never been one to back down, and he laughs lightly, “Certainly not. Despite the rumors, you aren’t particularly frightening, Kurusu-kun. And although I may take my leave fairly frequently, I assure you I do genuinely enjoy our conversations. You are…someone I feel I can truly be myself around, which is nice. Unfortunately and, somewhat ironically, I’m afraid I should be leaving now. The trains will be shutting down shortly, and as enjoyable as this has been, I wouldn’t want to overstay my welcome.”

Akira grins at that, nodding “I can walk you to the station, if you’d like.”

He’d like that, to continue their banter, but Akechi shakes his head. “That won’t be necessary. Thank you though. I look forward to talking with you again sometime.”

Akira holds the door open for him, “Same here. Goodnight, Akechi.”

As Akechi walks toward the train station, he realizes that despite his outburst he has in fact found their discussion enjoyable as well. Something about the way he’s able to converse with Akira is exciting and raw. He boards the train and finds himself looking forward to visiting Leblanc again. Perhaps the next time, he’ll stay without Akira’s prodding.

#goro week #akechi goro #akira kurusu #persona 5 #goro week day 1 #honey I'm home #my writing #i had originally meant for akechi to get a little more of a sense of relief from their conversation #but apparently he wasn't having that

[teejaydeetrip]

A Bandaged Left Hand

I had an extremely vivid dream last night in which I gave myself a vasectomy with a pair of scissors and some extremely small plastic pegs. I remember the skin of my ball sack felt like plastic or polyester and there was no blood. At some point the stitching came undone and I had not taken the pegs out and I ran around the house trying to find some kind of tool to fix it. I was worried mostly about infection. I can’t remember how it started and I don’t think it ended on any proper note on account of a loud truck rumbling past my window and waking me up. The first thing I did was check my balls. The second thing I did was breathe a sigh of releif, and the third thing I did was fall asleep again, because it was only 11.30am and I had been up late the night before. 

Being awake at night in Australia is tormenting. Nobody is awake after 1am and nobody is really up for chatting after 12. I don’t think anybody was in Japan either, but at least I had drive there. On the rare night that I wasn’t singing karaoke, or trading stories with other travellers, I was driven. I had things to write. I had things to say. I learned Japanese or sketched ideas. I watched movies in little booths on futons in internet cafes and drank ramen and lay back, contented that the moment I wanted to, I could walk outside into the bright shining lights of 3am in Osaka. Are there many places that bright at 3am in other parts of the world? I hear New York is pretty lively. 

Here, even in the trendy parts of Sydney, I’d be lucky to find a service station. Here, I watch Netflix on autopilot. I just watched the second season of The Man In The High Castle, on complete autopilot. I barely registered it at all. It’s a good show, but not at the same time. It’s intensely boring, yet utterly compelling at the same time. TV shows take up too much time. I need to learn to write more. To use this diary. 

I haven’t written in days. What have I missed? I don’t think I’ve written yet about The Dove and Olive. This bar hired me as a bartender. I applied for a bartender position, and trialled as a bartender, yet when I started, they put me on the floor. My job is not to pour beers, but to deliver schnitzels and steaks to baby boomers for 5 hours a night, then clean the shitty gross plates up and gather their shitty gross napkins and bin their shitty gross leftovers. I made it known to some of my co-workers. They told me that is just the way it is here when you start. Then others added that that is just the way it is for guys in general. Floor staff have to change the kegs over and girls are too weak for that, apparently. 

There are like 7 or 8 girls tending bar here, meaning most nights will have me on the floor. I was not happy with this and I made it known. I didn’t say to the managers what I wanted to say; that any place with an initiation process is not the kind of place that I work at, or that I came here to be a bartender, not a fucking waiter. But I made I certainly didn’t have a smile on me when I had to do these. Every day I started I would walk behind the bar and start pouring beers until someone said “Hey aren’t you on the floor today?” to which I would respond, “I don’t know, am I?”.  On Friday, the Manager On Duty didn’t know how to answer me, and just let me pour beers. I don’t know if I was supposed to be on the floor or if he was just shy, It was St Paddy’s day. Pouring Guiness is a bitch. I dropped a pint glass while trying to hang it up and tried to catch it but ended up just slamming it down even harder onto a bench. It shattered and the shards cut my pointer and index finger.  

The licensee emailed me on Saturday, after working 3 shifts. She had gotten the hint. It had been passed up the chain of command from the MOD to the DM to the licensee. She asked me if I was comfortable and I checked the Sydney Bartender Exchange group on Facebook and found an ad for a cocktail bartender in Redfern and messaged him asking for the position. 

He messaged back 3 hours later to ask if I wanted to come in for a trial shift on that evening. 

I emailed the licensee back at the Dove and Olive telling her I wasn’t happy with the way things were at the ol’ Dolive and that I would be happy to finish the shifts I had been rostered on for next week, but that was it. It was all very amicable. She thanked me for my time and I thanked her for hers and we agreed I’d finish next week, then I went and got drunk with Nigel, my old lecturer from uni. 

I haven’t seen Nigel in 5 years. Kat and I, both students of his, had emailed him from Japan, when we met up and had a drink over there. He spent some time living and working in Japan and constantly joked about how hot Japanese girls are. He was the perfect sleazy old man charming rogue stereotype, only with real experience in the music industry and genuinely funny things to say. I told Kat and Nigel to meet me at Goro’s.

I drank a lot the night before, and was early. My eyes were pounding in the back of my head and I had a sharp fuzzy feeling scratching at the back of my head. A slight pounding headache. Goro’s was shut. I couldn’t bring myself to do anything except smoke and wait. Nigel and Kat arrive eventually, and we decide to walk to El Loco, a Mexican themed place that used to be The Excelsior. It’s only a few minutes around the corner. You can’t smoke in the outside tables because they serve food there but nobody is eating, so we do anyway. 

Kat tells us about her time in London and I tell them about my time in Japan and Germany and Nigel tells us about his time at the uni, where his employment is tenuous at best, and he tells us about how he hates Germany because he got into lots of trouble there and spent some time in German prison. His story was the kind of thing you can see in your head as a movie. Nigel in a leather jacket in the 80′s, careening across Europe like a flaming satellite crashing back down to earth, bringing with it information gleaned from the void. 3 day benders without leaving the same bar in Spain, dangerous meetings with dangerous men in dangerous alleys in Germany, snuff film screenings in warehouses in Amsterdam.

Before it’s all over, we have had 4 or 5 jugs of beer and a full packet of cigarettes in the space of 2 and a half hours and my spiky hangover has been replaced by a groggy hair-of-the-dog hangover and I need to go pretend to be a cocktail bartender in Redfern. I hug the both of them goodbye and we promise to do this again sometime soon. 

Moya’s Juniper Lounge. That’s the name of the place. It’s a small bar in Redfern specialising in gin and gin cocktails. On the way, I swing by Henry and Amanda’s place to borrow a black button up shirt. Henry only has two black button up shirts. One has a floral print and the other is a tuxedo shirt. I go with the tuxedo shirt. 

The owner, Charlie, sits me down the moment I get in. I apologise for the tuxedo shirt, it was the only one I could get at late notice. He says that’s fine. He gives me the run down. The place sticks to gin classics and sours. He has like 200 different kinds of gin and a handful of whiskeys. Charlie asks about my experience. I answer. He asks me what my availabilities are like and what kind of work I am looking for.  I answer.  I pretty much have the job interview before the trial, which is a good sign. He introduces me to Nick, the other bartender, here from The Wild Rover, a whiskey bar in Surry Hills. A gangly kid that doesn’t look a day over 17. Nice kid, but a bit standoff-ish.

I fumble my way through conversation with the two of them whilst nobody comes in at all for an hour. A small group come in and I make my second ever Martini. The guy likes it so much that all his friends ask for one two. 

So my conversation skills aren’t so great while I feel this whacked out, but I have made the best martini this group has ever had, so at least my martini game is strong. They make them vintage style here. Charlie says he wants his bar to look and feel like it came straight out of the 1950′s. All the stuff you usually have in speed rails is on a table behind the bar, the furniture are all antiques or rescued from Charlies grandparents farm, music from the 30′s, 40′s and 50′s plays through the PA. and the martini’s are made with: -60ml Tanqueray gin -20ml Dry vermouth -2 Dashes orange bitters -1 Olive

We have no other customers until 9.30pm, when about 6 groups of people all mill in seemingly at once. We are chocked. I pump out Negroni’s and Martini’s and Aviation’s and Charlie Chaplin’s with relative ease. I get stuck on the Clover Club. It’s a sour whose ingrediants have escaped my mind, so I’ll have to list next time. The important thing to note here is that I have never worked a cocktail bar that didn’t have it’s egg white’s kept in a squeeze bottle, pre-cracked by whoever does that. I drop the egg yellow into the first mix by accident and ditch the whole mix. On the second attempt, I put the ice in the wrong side of the shaker, and attempt to put the other side, with is mix on top of the one with the ice, spilling the whole mix all over the prep station. On the third attempt, we have run out of squeezed lemons. so I begin to cut up a lemon and slice my thumb open and start bleeding everywhere. I have to ask Nick to finish it, and Charlie finds me a band-aid and opens it up while I keep the bleeding at bay with a tissue. 

After I’ve been patched up, I make a couple more negroni’s and aviations (aviators?) and when it hits 10, I check Facebook and realise that I’m shifted on at the club at 10, not 11. I’m about to tell Charlie this, and as I do, he tells me that’s good for tonight and if I need to get off to the club, I’m free to do so. 

I’m concerned, but he handshakes hard and strong and smiles many thank you’s He tells me that another lady is finishing up here, but he would be happy to split the time up between us if I have enjoyed myself. To top it all off, he pays me for the trial. It’s a sign of a decent man, if not heavenly entity to pay for a trial shift in Sydney. 

I change out of my tuxedo shirt and into a black T and thank Charlie again on the way out. I wave goodbye and walk right next door, into a hip hop bar called Hustle & Flow. I order a shot of tequila, tip the change and grab a cab from outside. I message Marina, letting her know I will be late, and it ends up costing me 20 dollars to get one suburb over. Fucking cabs, man. 

I can’t remember the name of the girl who is promoting the party, but she is turnt as fuck. She used to work here, and keeps letting herself in behind the bar to make Margarita’s for herself. I try to tempt her with the offer of a margarita-ish drink but she never takes me up on it, so I offer one to Marina and make her a Whisky-rita. (-60ml Bourbon -30ml Drambuie -30ml Lime)

I try to make Matty a St Croix Sour, but it turns out Creme De Ginger is way different to the ginger liqueur I am accustomed to using. 

I drink heaps of tequila on shift. And a beer or three. It’s all good fun. I clean up the bar fine and learn how to use the bottle crusher (Step 1-turn it on. Step 2-put empty bottles into it) and a broken bottle inside it makes a small cut on my finger, but only a tiny drop of blood emerges. It’s on the same hand as the other two.

I walk to The Strawberry Hills Hotel in Surry Hills with Matty and drink a red wine and run into Steve, an old uni friend, and the bar shuts nearly immediately. I take a cab home and stumble into bed at 5.30am on Sunday morning. My weekend has barely even begun.

#depression #bipolar #sadness #sad #writing #journal #tequila #gin #bourbon #tanqueray #bartender #cocktails #cocktail #bars #redfern #sydney #osaka #japan #nightmare #weekend #martini #negroni