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– You jump a tiny bit at the initial contact, having not been expecting it. It’s just a tiny arch of your shoulders, but you doubt it went unnoticed by Haru. She’s the kind of person to pay attention to how someone feels, after all. You relax, giving Haru a tiny smile to tell her you’re alright, and that she didn’t do anything wrong. It meets your eyes, but despite your best efforts it’s still a little weak. You don’t believe that Morgana will understand, at least not immediately. But being told that he cares about you helps remind you that the friction won’t necessarily last forever. Even if it did, it would be preferable to how things are now. 

So you nod. 

“You’re probably right,” you say. It doesn’t go unnoticed that she’s never chided you for being uncertain about this, or for ultimately falling short at helping Morgana on your own. You look down, pause, and then speak again.

“Thank you, Haru.” 

You start to walk along, deciding that it’s now or never. You hold the door open for Haru as you both go, leading the way back to your apartment. Haru hasn’t seen the inside of it yet, and truthfully you don’t bring anyone there either. The atmosphere is oppressive, and the fact is, you’ve been keeping Morgana a secret in that tiny room with barred windows. 

That kind of makes you a warden, doesn’t it? 

You make it to the beginning of the hall, and talk quietly.  “Are you ready?”

Akira seems to tense at first at her contact, but the smile he gives Haru, while tired, is genuine. As long as she was able to get through to him that he wasn’t alone in this, that was all that mattered. She just hopes that she’ll actually be able to help. 

They leave the cafe, and Haru follows behind Akira as he leads the way through the winding streets of the downtown district. She considers making conversation, but she doubts that any amount of small talk will relieve the anxiety building up inside her friend. Truthfully, her nerves aren’t quite at ease, either. Yes, she feels that she and Morgana share an understanding, but it’s also true that he can be quite defensive, even with those he cherishes. She really doesn’t want to create a rift between neither him or Akira. She’s done quite enough of that already. 

Soon the proud stone and brick buildings give way to rotted wood and boarded windows. She’d... Never been in the insensitively named “Poor Town” before, and frankly being here doesn’t exactly make her regret that decision. Surely, its residents didn’t enjoy it, either. A bitter sting crosses her thoughts at the malevolent manner the High Council tossed others into places like this while she is placed in luxury while having done nothing to earn it. But there was no time to stew in such guilt at the moment, for before she knew it, they were in a dim hallway of Akira’s apartment building. 

She nods in response to Akira’s question, her voice just as quiet. 

twistingchains‌:

trickcard‌:

crowism‌:

axeandfloof‌:

“I think it’s a meme? I don’t know the original context, however.”

“I believe it is related to a fast moving–or being thrown–motion. A use for it could be ‘I’m going to yeet that football’ or ‘I had to yeet to the store.’ Sometimes people seem to use it as an exclamation of excitement, too.”

“You know like, YEET.” – You make a fast, pushing gesture with your arms. 

“Ahhh, I see.”  You begin to lift the black haired one up, in order to properly demonstrate you know how to yeet. Also, you want to throw him at all given times so this seems like an opportunity. He isn’t very heavy at all.  “Must we also shout the phrase in exclamation?” 

– You dangle off the ground. Are they actually going to throw you??? Is anyone going to stop them?

“UM! I THINK USING AN OBJECT WOULD GET THE POINT ACROSS JUST AS WELL!” 

“I have a question.” 

“What is ‘yeet’?” – They have been trying to do social media. 

@crowism

“No infections, stitches in tact... Looks like your shoulder is on it’s way to recovery, Ms. Okumura.” The doctor sits back, a satisfied smile on her face. 

Haru feels a wave of relief wash over at this information. In the week between her initial surgery and this checkup, her cut had caused no small amount of discomfort, not even the prescribed painkillers doing much to relieve it for long. But honestly, she should be grateful for getting away with this fiasco without any nerve damage, or infection, as Dr. Liana mentioned. She was lucky, this time. 

“I think I can leave you be for another three weeks. Granted you don’t put any strain on it, it should be safe to take those stitches out.” Her words are chipper, but she looks at Haru pointedly as she smiles. “No lifting heavy objects, like... A weapon, for example.” 

Haru responds with a polite laugh that’s not at all nervous. “Of course. Thank you again, doctor.” 

She exits to the lobby, while not exactly in high spirits, nonetheless relieved that her wound is healing up nicely. Three weeks, though... She still hadn’t told any of the others about her injury, and who knows what kind of excuse she’ll make if they arrange to go to the palace in that time. Truthful, she supposes. But still... Even now, she still can’t quite bring herself to face anyone, keeping her conversations strictly to text. What was wrong with her...? 

She steps past the automatic doors into the still cool spring air, trying to push these worries out of her mind. Unfortunately, it became immediately apparent that this wouldn’t be possible as she catches the eyes of a certain Goro Akechi. Who definitely saw her exiting the hospital just now. 

... Oh. 

Okay. 

A blinding flash of light explodes, sending a thunderous tremor through the tunnel, broken stones and charred ends of police tape being thrown about on all sides. Haru had just barely avoided joining their fate. 

Once again, she had encountered a group of shadows that she couldn’t face on her own; their resistances and skills all stacked against her favor. She had just barely jumped out of the way of a frei attack, which surely would have left her incapacitated and at the mercy of her enemies. And without any reflective spells at her command, there was no way to retaliate against these creatures. So once more, she was forced to retreat. 

She scrambles to her feet, grabbing her ax before turning tail and running from the trumpeting roar echoing behind her. She was certain she could outrun the pack of large cyclops elephants; agility not exactly being their specialty. Still, humiliation hung over her shoulders as she swerved around an empty corner into an empty room she had opened minutes ago. 

What was she even doing here...? She should have known that she wouldn’t be able to handle the shadows in Mementos by herself. Milady’s skills were far to limited, that only very specific types of shadows could be bested by her. She wasn’t like Akira, or even Akechi, who could adapt their attack strategies as the situation demanded. But for Haru... There was really no good reason for her to be their alone, Even if she wanted to be. 

This wasn’t anything like the thrill of battle, the rush that she would get from before. Despite the dangers, she loved training in Mementos. It was like the adrenaline blew all her worries away, and she was finally able to outmatch her obstacles. It was as simple as becoming stronger than them. No smiles, no politics and compromises behind doors. Just strength. 

... And the support of those beside her. 

She barrels into the cavernous room, steel beams twisted and distorted around her, but at the very least, there were no shadows patrolling this area. Haru takes this opportunity to hunch over, finally able to catch her breath. This really was a foolish idea. Coming here to train by herself only doubled the anxiety that she wished to relieve herself of. She really should leave. Thankfully, she’s only explored the floor right below the entrance for today, so it shouldn’t take too long to- 

A gargled roar cuts through the winding tunnels, rapidly growing louder. Haru’s heart freezes as she turns her head just in time to see the hulking black shape bounding towards her. No! Had it caught sight of her as she was running away?! 

There isn’t time to process anything else, for in the next instant, the shadow is disolving into three different shapes, quickly surrounding her. Sucking a breath, she raises her ax, A figure in a billowing ball gown bursting forth in a blaze of blue flame. 

A small space in the town square distorts, and not one second later, Haru comes stumbling back into the real world. She falls on her knees, breath comes in desperate gasps, lungs burning with effort. She barely even registers the stings that comes from scraping her palm against the cobblestone, paltry in comparison to the angry gash from her shoulder down to her collarbone. It’s not particularly deep, nor is it the worst injury she’d sustained in battle, but it certainly the longest she’d gone without immediate healing. 

She’d gained quite a few onlookers, having fell quite spectacularly, blouse already staining red. There are several who are already approaching her, but before anyone can get a word in, she forces an apologetic smile and quickly runs off to a nearby alley. 

Finally, finally, once she’d escaped any prying eyes, she allows herself to drop to her knees, wheezing and shaking. The splintered remains of a broken ax clatters to the floor as it presses against her bleeding wound. What a sight she must be, Haru Okumura, last surviving member of the Okumura Cooperation, bloody and wild-eyed, looking like she had just murdered someone. She truly was foolish. 

After being able to catch her breath, she cranes her head to try and get a proper look at her wound. Certainly, it would mean medical attention. She’d have to get to the hospital, and soon. She fumbles in her skirt pocket for her phone, quickly opening Akira’s chat window. She stares for a moment, blood smeared across the screen next to his icon. After a moment she closes out of the window and opens a gps app instead. How could she possibly explain to him, or anyone else why she had went into Mementos alone? Could she even justify herself? Face those uncomfortable, guilty looks? 

... No, better to put this behind her and make sure she never tries something so stupid again. In any case... Her eyes fall dejectedly to her weapon, nothing left than the jagged wooden end of a handle. 

– You nod in confirmation of Haru’s idea to tell the others. Truthfully, that’s why you started with her. If you can show Morgana that he’s accepted, and valued despite the fact he can’t speak anymore you think that will help. But he’s a proud kind of person. If anyone is going to be able to handle this situation with the delicacy it needs, it will be Haru. 

If you and Haru can crack the door to Morgana’s world open, maybe he’ll let the others in too. 

“That’s what I was thinking, too.” 

You pause, taking a minute to consider if you should say anything else. 

“I made a promise,” you say, sliding your hands into your pockets as you stand. “But betraying him is right thing to do.” 

“He might not forgive me. If that’s the case, please watch over him.” 

Haru’s heart twists in on itself at Akira’s words. Though she highly doubts the situation will turn out as he predicts, she knows how deeply he and Morgana care for each other. They’ve supported each other in ways the rest of the group probably will never see. The prospect of breaking such mutual trust... It’s terrifying. 

She stands along with him, her hand reaching out without actively meaning to and gently grabs onto Akira’s arm. This... Might not be appropriate, but she at least wants to give him physical assurance that he isn’t alone, in case words aren’t enough. 

“That won’t happen.” She says firmly. “He might be angry with you, but... Ultimately, Mona-chan knows that you care for his well-being and want you to be happy. He’ll understand.” 

– She asks all of the questions you assumed she would. All of the ones that make sense. She cares about Morgana, the same as you do, though you think she may know a part of him you don’t. She’s seen him at his most vulnerable, during a time that he wouldn’t face the rest of the group. So… that’s why you think it needs to be her. Though, there’s still a chance he won’t budge. That’s terrifying. 

“It’s been happening since December 26th.” – The day you got here. It’s been months now, watching him fade away.

“I promised not to tell anyone, but. This isn’t healthy.”

For you, or for him. You know that. 

“I think he needs to see he isn’t alone. That I’m not the only person who will accept him.”

He might not forgive you for this, and… that’s okay. You want him to be okay. If it means breaking bonds, so be it. 

“Can you talk to him?” 

Her heart only tightens as Akira continues to speak. This has been happening for over a month? Has he even left Akira’s apartment? It isn’t unlikely she wouldn’t catch sight of the cat in a fairly spacious city, but from the melancholy expression on Akira’s face, she doubts that’s the case. Would Haru truly be able to get through him when Akira, his near constant companion, couldn’t? 

“Of course I will.” She answers gently, despite her anxieties. She decides to keep those to herself. This is probably just as painful for Akira, after all. The best she can do is try, And at least she can stand by them both in support. 

– You meet Haru’s eyes, and relax your shoulders a bit. She got here fairly quickly, all things considered, and she’s talking to you with a level of gentleness. If she didn’t want to talk to you, or to help, she wouldn’t be. You look down to the table for a moment, wondering what he true feelings are now that there have been a few days to disengage.

You wonder what she’ll think, knowing how long this has been going on. You squeeze the cup in your hands.

“… If anyone can, it’s you.” 

You briefly contemplate how to breach the subject. You decide to be frank.

“It’s about Morgana. He can’t talk outside the Metaverse anymore.”

You swallow. “He wanted me to keep it a secret until it’s fixed. But… I don’t think he’s okay.”

Her eyebrows raise at Akira’s response. If anyone could help, it’s her? She can’t stop the small relieved spark in her chest, however inappropriate it may be. But she can’t possibly imagine why he would specifically need her help. It can’t possibly something as mundane as gardening tips, given how much he seems to struggle with what he wants to say. But even if she did have any ideas, it wouldn’t be anywhere close to what he says. 

“Mona-chan? He’s here too?” She exclaims, loud enough to turn some heads at a nearby table. Shooting them an apologetic look, she lowers her voice, turning her attention back towards Akira. 

“How long has he been here? And... Has he had this problem for a while?” It’s an earnest question, without any accusations intended. Though she wishes she had been told about this sooner, it’s understandable that Akira would keep this to himself, depending on the circumstances. 

Morgana was always very prideful, unwilling to show his weaknesses to others. Even during the brief time he had stayed with her, he was unwilling to fully indulge the exact details of his falling out with the others. He hid his hurt behind a confident smile and petty jabs. 

... But even back then, Haru knew better. The days not spent in Mementos led to his relentless pacing throughout her home, and staring out windows, even deep into the night. Keeping everything inside like that... It was a pain that Haru could always relate too. And now, he’s lost his voice, yet another link to his humanity snatched away. To think, a dear friend had been suffering in the shadows all this time, with her none the wiser. 

– She gets back to you quickly, much to your surprise. It is fairly late in the morning, however, so it would make sense Haru would be up by now. She seems to jump to the conclusion that something happened, which shouldn’t be surprising. This world has a lot of variables, and it isn’t as if her time here has been without incident. She’s the one that found Akechi bleeding out, on top of the usual baggage that comes with the territory. Like the rest of you, she’s in a strange new world with nothing familiar, aside from a team with shifted dynamics and little direction. 

You’re sure she’s worried about what is happening back home without her, too. She had a lot of responsibilities. Poor Haru. You’re not about to make her life easier, but staying quiet about the issue isn’t viable anymore. And you don’t think she would want Morgana to suffer quietly either. 

🗡️: Something like that.  🗡️: It might be easier to explain in person. 🗡️: [ You sent Haru a location. ]  🗡️: Let’s talk here. 

You invite her to a coffee shop that’s equidistant to her apartment and yours. Pushing your bike alongside her, or riding together might be awkward, so you walk. Morgana doesn’t even meow at you as you leave. You look over your shoulder at the barred patch of light over his limp form. You hate this apartment. 

You arrive before she does, and when you look up to her, your smile is a little delayed and very obviously strained. But you give a small wave. 

“Hey,” you say, warming your hands up on your second cup of coffee. Your finger smooths over a chip in the side. 

“Thanks for coming on short notice… It means a lot.” 

Haru rushes through her usual routine when she prepares to head out, essentially just making sure she’s clean and presentable before grabbing her bag and ducking out the door. Akira’s reluctance to explain over text really worries her, and she doesn’t want to keep him waiting if it really is an emergency. 

He’s not visibly distressed when she catches sight of him at his table, but he was never one to wear his heart on his sleeve unless pushed to the brink. But it does creep through in his smile, so tight and strained. She really hopes that she isn’t responsible for it. 

@axeandfloof

2/16 [ MORNING. ] 

t’s been a few days, and things seem to have settled back down into a stasis. Unlike the Christmas party, you don’t really fear for anyone’s ability to function properly. Though you are worried about Haru. You decided to give her space for a few days, but then ultimately decided that it would matter if you were to reach out to hang out with her first. You want to show her the line of communication is open.

You also… might sincerely need her help. You send her a brief text. 

🗡️: can we meet up? 🗡️: i need your help. 

It takes you longer to send the second text than it does the first. Why are you nervous? It’s Haru. You know her. No. That’s not the problem. She knows you a lot better now, and a lot more personally than you’d intended. And you’re about to show her a worse side of you. Morgana might not deign to look at you after this, but you can’t continue to watch him wither away into nothing. You’re telling Haru the truth. If she answers, that is. 

She might not. It’s hard to swallow the last few bites of your omelette. You put on your glasses, and start the day.

Haru probably shouldn’t be surprised when she sees Akira’s name pop up on her phone, but she is. The night turned out to be more enjoyable with the addition of the games, but she had... Been rather harsh with Akira before. And her interactions (or lack thereof) with Akechi certainly didn’t help to lighten the mood. 

She’s... Still unsure how to navigate their friendship, giving his developing relationship with the detective. She suspected Akira felt similarly, but here he is, reaching out much more. She swallows back the guilt and instead opens the chat windows. And then her guilt immediately shifts to worry. 

🌱 : Of course. Just tell me where you’d like to meet, and I’ll get there as fast as I can.

Ryuji can’t help but smile as she giggles, glad that she isn’t yelling at him about not remembering, or worse: acting disappointed that he didn’t remember. He was already feeling like a bit of a let down, and her reaction lifts his spirits tremendously. 

He can’t help but think that she sure seems fancy. Her speech was one thing, but when had anyone ever bowed to him? He tries his best to play it off, despite it making him a little uncomfortable.

“It’s nice to meet ‘cha!” He says, offering an awkward bow of his own before adding a soft “again.” 

“I’m Ryuji Sakamoto, though I guess you already knew that,” he runs his free hand through his hair, “You probably also already know you can just call me Ryuji, since we’re teammates and all,” He grins. 

“Did you just get here? Do you need help finding anything? There’s a really good ramen place I can take you to if you’re hungry. We can, uh, catch up? A couple of our other members also have screwy memories so I can give you the what’s what.” 

He’s doing his best not to act super awkward, but he’s really not used to cute girls being cool with chatting to him. 

Haru can’t help but be impressed how easily Ryuji can slip into such a friendly familiarity with her, despite being being essentially a stranger to him. But he’s always had that open friendliness about him, hadn’t he? Her smile softens into something more gentle. 

“If you’re free, I’d love to. I still don’t know my way around very well yet.” 

– You read the texts, and make a mental note to meet up with Haru. She doesn’t deserve to be kept in the dark about any of this, and with what has happened… you don’t think that’s an option. You want to make sure she’s really okay, and fill her in. But for right now, you need to get going. 

from: akira to: okumura haru 

🗡️: I’ll be careful.  🗡️: I know for a fact doesn’t want to hurt me.  🗡️: Can we meet up soon?

to: Akira from: Haru

🌱 : Alright. I trust you.