Persona BLEACHED 4: Chapter 1

Persona BLEACHED 4
Chapter 1: Life, as Usual
---
August 16, 2031
"Millenia ago...our world ended, and this one began. One universe died, and another took its place. I've followed this world's development from its very beginning. In that time, I've learned much of what there is to learn. So tell me, Rose...what do you think it is that I do here?"
The room resembled the office of a psychotherapist, and everything was a distinct shade of dark blue. In this room, two women were having tea. The one who was speaking was a dark-haired woman with glasses, wearing a white-and-red dress suit. Her name was Dr. Mikaela Wolfe, also known as Kaya, a therapist who had survived the previous universe's destruction and was now tasked with monitoring reality.
Seated across from her was a young woman with pale skin and striking yellow eyes. She had long platinum hair, and wore a dark blue dress suit, skirt, leggings and shoes along with gloves. Her appearance was like that of a maid. This was Dr. Rosemary Wolfe, more commonly known as Rose. She was Kaya's daughter, who had spent the majority of existence frozen in hibernation, until roughly twenty years ago.
"From my understanding, you look over the worlds and ensure that nothing is amiss. Whether in reality or the other side." Rose answered.
"In simple terms, yes. The Velvet Room is where I study and preserve the material world, as well as the world generated by humanity's cognition. The one you know as the Metaverse. But there is one other task that I've been given. The security of this world from outside influence." Kaya said.
"Outside? You mean from somewhere...beyond the Metaverse?"
"Rose...are you familiar with the term 'multiverse theory'?"
"Well, yes. It's the idea that this universe is not the only one in existence. That there are an innumerable amount of alternate realities existing alongside our own."
"Correct. Admittedly, quantum physics was beyond my expertise. That was always Miyatsuko's area of focus. But I've spent much time studying his notes on varying subjects. One of his theories was that his experiment didn't, in fact, destroy our universe. Or that this one was created in its place."
"How would either of those be possible? What did he think happened?"
"He believed that his machine, in fact, transported us into a younger, nascent universe, nearly identical to ours. In his lifetime, he searched for any trace of our old universe, but found nothing. He believed that it may have crumbled away due to the damage it incurred, but that it wasn't instantaneous."
"And what made him believe that this universe already existed?"
"He had apparently discovered particles in the moon's soil that were older than they should have been. He thought that it had either been transported with us, or that it had already been there prior to our arrival. But back to his theories on the multiverse. He believed that if this universe had, in fact, existed before the Cataclysm occurred on our world, then it would prove the existence of multiple realities. Worlds similar enough to our own, but with other key differences. And perhaps, even, alternate versions of ourselves."
"Was he ever able to locate any of these realities?"
"No. And I haven't dared to try looking. I'm here to ensure that nothing from outside gets through to our world. Who knows what sort of beings exist beyond the barrier between the universes, or what kind of effect they could have on this one? The chances of a breach are miniscule, but if it ever were to happen, I'll be the first to know." Kaya put down her tea. "Ah, but enough theoretical babble. Another year at the Academy looms. How are you and my pupil feeling going into it?"
"My job never changes. Another year of helping intensely pressured high schoolers sort through their academic issues. Or breakups. Mainly breakups. As for Rin, she's been her usual optimistic self. The Academy is finally giving her bigger classes to oversee. Only took them until her fourth year. But I can already tell that she's missing her old class. Not having them around after three years is going to take some adjusting to."
"Change is part of life. Especially so when it comes to teaching. Her old students hailing from all corners of the globe meant that naturally they'd be going in different directions. I'm certain she'll adjust. She always has."
"I think so, too. What we're both equally nervous about is Shizuka. 1st grade and heading to a private school. It's an intimidating prospect, to say the least."
"She's a bright young girl. I'm sure academically she'll be just fine."
"It's not the academic side I'm worried about. She's always been subdued around new people and larger crowds. Definitely isn't the chatterbox her sister was. We're afraid that she might have a difficult time making friends if she can't overcome her anxiety. Thankfully she'll have Aura with her, and she's definitely a social butterfly, so hopefully she can help break through that wall. But I'm also concerned that she hasn't taken our old class leaving particularly well. Especially Ms. Kit."
"Kit So-yin, you mean. Ms. Kubo's star protégé. She is in London now, correct?"
"That's right. She still talks to Rin frequently, and asks to talk to Shizuka often, but not seeing her favorite babysitter as often as she used to is clearly having an effect. She adores Ms. Kit. The hope is that she can adjust quickly to her school life and keep her spirits up, but it's easier said. And not only that..."
"There's something else bothering you?"
"...you are aware that Max Jadefang, formerly Max O'Donnell, has returned?"
Kaya paused. "That boy...he's been found? Where?"
"Our class found him during their vacation in America. He'd been wandering around the country, using the power he had remaining from...the incident, to inflict vigilante justice on whoever he came across. I'd thought he would be a lost cause whenever he was found, but Ms. Kit being Ms. Kit, her persistence got through to him."
"And he's come back to Tokyo?"
"Yes. And currently living with Ibuki Hinotama."
"Isn't that the young woman that--"
"Yes. He's come here to make amends with those he hurt. Early indications are that Ms. Hinotama's sister gave him a rather...frosty reception. He's going to have a dire time of it trying to fix what he and..." Rose sighed. "What he and Father did."
There was a depth to everything Rose was explaining. The class of students her beloved Rin had tutored the last three years had all been empowered in the same way as her and her friends, wielding ephemeral 'other selves' known as Personas, gifting them with strength and abilities beyond anything normal humans believe possible. The students had been operating as a vigilante group known as the Ashen Artisans, punishing those who had been misusing the power they held in society.
The previous year, the Artisans had dealt with an unusual phenomenon known as "Prisons", wherein people called "Wardens" were made to steal the desires of those around them, using them to increase their influence and popularity. What the Artisans uncovered about the situation was nothing short of shocking: one of their own, an American boy named Max O'Donnell, was behind the phenomenon. He created them in an effort to empower the powerless and make himself into a hero, with the aid of an otherworldly AI system.
That system would turn out to be the remnants of Rose's own father, Edelhardt, who had survived the apocalypse event of the old universe and lived on in digital form. After a long struggle, the Artisans prevailed, Edelhardt was destroyed, and Max had gone missing. This was a year-and-a-half ago. Only through the efforts of the aforementioned Ibuki--herself an ex-Warden who had since joined the Artisans--did he come to terms with his misdeeds and begin the process of rebuilding his life.
Now the Artisans had scattered around the world to begin college. Life in Tokyo's Naruki district--and their previous school, the prestigious Naruki Ascension Academy--would continue on.
Rose looked at her phone. "Ah, I should get going. Rin will be waking up soon. Don't need her worrying that I've vanished."
"I'll leave you to it. We'll catch up next week. Give Ms. Kubo and Shizuka my best. Have a good day, Rose."
"You as well, Mother. Until next time."
Reality itself twisted and shifted. Rose reappeared, seated at a kitchen table inside of a cozy suburban Tokyo home, the inside of which was decorated with flowers of all sorts. Light was beginning to creep in through the windows.
In the master bedroom, its occupant stirred awake. 27-year old Ringo Kubo, known by everyone as Rin, possessed distinctive red hair, reaching down to her shoulders and curving forward, along with red eyes. Her arms bore faded scars, a remnant of injuries incurred from an incident in her teens. She reached for her red glasses and put them on, got up, put her slippers on, and headed for the kitchen. "*yaaaaawn*...Good morning, Rose." She put on her usual infectious smile.
"Good morning, beloved. A good night's rest, I'm hoping?" Rose responded.
"Good as you can have. I'm probably gonna be having more long nights going forward, so I'll need as many hours as I can get. Is Shizuka up yet?"
"Not yet. You know that one sleeps like a bear. She'll be a while yet."
Rin felt something brushing against her leg. "Good morning, Momo. How's the queen of the castle doing this morning?" She bent down and petted her pink-hued cat, with faint stripes and messy fur. The cat gave an approving purr.
Rin sat down at the table. "A busy day for you and Shizuka today, isn't it?" Rose asked.
"Mmhmm. A haircut for her followed by lunch at JoJo and Hiyoko's restaurant. And if she's not too tired after that, some quick stops to see the clan Mirai."
"A lunch *date*, you mean." Rose sipped her tea.
Rin nudged her shoulder. "Don't be so judgey. I haven't seen Takeshi since college. He's gonna be Shizuka's teacher this year, so I wanted to make a connection. Anything to make things easier for her. And you can drop the suspicious side eye. He's gay. You don't have to worry about him sweeping me off my feet."
"I wasn't giving you the side eye. My eye momentarily became dislodged from its socket. Its corrected itself now."
"Uh-huh, sure."
About an hour later, Rin, now dressed in red pants and ankle boots, green plaid jacket over a red shirt and sporting red studs in her ears, was getting ready to leave. "Okay...ready to head out, lovebug?"
A little girl was seated at the kitchen table, her attention focused on the drawing she was making on her tablet. 7-year old Shizuka possessed brown hair and wore glasses, and wore a shirt with images of blue butterflies fluttering across it. A black pair of headphones with a stylized purple butterfly on each earpiece was draped around her neck. "Mmhmm." she uttered.
"It's gonna be a fun day, I promise. Kanae-chan's aunt is going to be doing your hair, and we can go see Aunt Tenko and Uncle Jin later if you're not feeling sleepy. Today's about making you happy."
"Okay." Shizuka simply replied, and got out of her seat.
Rin grabbed her hand. "Enjoy your day of doing...something."
"I'll find some housework to tend to. Maybe I'll spill paint in the shower so I'll have an excuse to thoroughly clean it." Rose replied.
"Get creative. I'm sure you'll think of something."
Rose knelt down. "Always mind your manners, Shizuka. Conduct yourself as I would."
"Okay, Mama Rose." the girl replied.
The two women kissed. "See you later." Rin bid, and she departed with Shizuka.
Rose sat down and glanced at the time. "Doing something. Yes, of course. My client won't be here for another hour. Just need to occupy my time with...something."
She turned on the TV, to the Spanish language channel. "'¡Siete horas conduciendo, y no tienes música! ¿Eres tan estúpido, tío?'"
"'¡Idiota, no soy tu tío! ¡Soy tu papa!'"
Dramatic music echoed out from the TV as Rose took a sip of her tea.
---
Rin arrived at the hairdressers' with Shizuka in hand. "Hello. Is Ms. Hinotama in?" she asked the receptionist.
"You lucked out, it's Fireball's first day back from vaycay. Ibukiiii?" the receptionist called out.
"I thought I heard my favorite educator!" A young woman with long black hair waved from her work seat. 21-year old Ibuki Hinotama was a fashionable sort, wearing gold hoop earrings, a black lace tank top, black pants and slippers, along with red nails. A former wrestler by trade who had also spent much of her life on the streets, she possessed an athletic physique. "How we doing today, ladies? Back for another round, teach?"
"Not for me today, Ibuki. The lovebug here's starting school on Monday. Think you can give her a clean cut for the big day?" Rin replied.
"Say no more! Take a seat on my throne here, little bug. We're gonna make the rest of those preppy kids jealous."
"Okay." Shizuka complied and sat down.
"You can sit down right there, teach. The girl that works there has the day off."
"Sure thing. Word on the street is to be believed, we have a lot to discuss." Rin sat.
Ibuki threw on an apron with the words "Queen Quts" written in cursive and began to work. "So how was the trip? That's a nice tan that you've got going there." Rin began.
"Oh yeah, a gift from the South Beach sun. The trip was loads of crazy fun. Always is with that troupe." Ibuki replied.
"I bet. Kat sent me plenty of pictures to prove it. And I hear that there was a pretty mammoth development for you in particular."
"Ohhhh boy. Guess there's no avoiding that one, is there?"
"Fireball leaves for a month and she comes back with a boyfriend! Ain't she so lucky?" the girl next to Ibuki chimed.
"Oh, stop!" Ibuki griped, before returning her attention to Rin. 
"How is he? Kat told me that when you found him he was in rough shape." Rin asked.
"That's putting it nicely. Maxie was...haunted. He's got a lot of ghosts to deal with. We got rid of some of the worse ones, so he's doing pretty okay for now. The hard part's gonna be the two-headed beast of 'make amends with everyone' and 'convince my sister that you're not actively warping my mind'."
"And how goes it on the latter?"
"Well...Maxie's sleeping on the couch. 'The day he gets a bed in my house is the day I get a hearing aid that doesn't short out.' So...not a good start."
"Ouch. Well you can't fault her for being protective. So what's he doing in the meantime?"
"Kaede laid down the rule that he has to find a job pronto. When I left he was scouring the net trying to find something. 'The last thing I need is a mooch under my roof.'"
"She's taking it about as well as I expected. Maybe I could help out on that front. He's a good fisherman, right? I can ask JoJo if he could take him in for something."
"That'd be a big relief, but are ya sure he'd be on board with it? His first mate's one of the ones Maxie's gotta fix things with, y'know."
"I know that. Maybe there's a way to put the two together. Two birds with one stone. I'll be at the restaurant later, so I can try to talk it over then."
"That's what I love about ya, teach. Always sticking your neck out for everyone. Gotta be careful with that big heart, though. Could land you in a heap of trouble if it steers ya wrong."
"Hasn't done that yet. But I'll keep it in mind."
Not long after, Ibuki finished the haircut. "There we go. All ready for hoity toity central."
"It looks perfect! What do you say to Ms. Ibuki, lovebug?" Rin asked.
"Thank you, Kanae's auntie." Shizuka replied.
"Awww, you're welcome, little bug! How about tomorrow you swing by and show Kanae-chan? One last little playdate before school starts. That sound fun?" Ibuki asked.
"Uh-huh."
"...oh! Unless you already had some big plans for tomorrow, teach."
"No, that sounds like a great idea. I'm sure the girls'll be thrilled. What better way to spend the last day of summer before things get busy?" Rin replied. She handed Ibuki payment for the haircut.
"Much obliged, professor! See you tomorrow. I'll tell Kanae-chan how cute you're looking, little bug!"
"Ummm..." the girl mumbled.
"Have a good one, Ibuki. See you in two weeks for my pretty-up session." Rin said as she departed.
"Honey, like you need it! But bring plenty of cash, anyway! Toodles!" Ibuki bid farewell.
---
At the Kubo residence, Rose remained watching Spanish soap operas. There was a knock at the door. She got up to open it.
"Hola, señor Ja--ahem. Beg your pardon. Hello, Mr. Jadefang."
On the front porch was a young man in a black-and-blue hooded jacket, his hands in his pants pockets. He bore messy brown hair and a short beard, with a scar across his left cheek. He looked troubled. 
Max Jadefang. Formerly Max O'Donnell. Formerly Captain Thunder, mastermind of the Prisons. 18 years of age and coming off of a cross-country spree of attacking criminals and forcing them to confess their ill deeds.
"Hey, Dr. Rose...is it okay for me to come in?" he asked, his voice possessing a slight Southern twang.
"As pleasant of a day as it might be, the sort of talk we're about to have is better suited for behind closed doors. Come in."
Max walked inside and sat down on the couch. He rubbed his hands together, and looked around nervously.
"Don't be so tense. I don't bite." Rose assured.
"That remains to be seen." Max replied. "I, uh...I don't know where to start."
"What's making you so nervous?"
"In general or specifically right now?"
"Mr. Jadefang. You agreed to this meeting. Why so fearful?"
"Well, y'know. Might have something to do with my failed attempt at changing everyone's hearts, or tampering with your mother-in-law's mind. Or the small fact that your dad helped me do it and I kinda destroyed him. Any one of those things would be a good answer."
"He could hardly be called my father when he attempted to subdue the world. Your ending his life was what ultimately ensured that he never tried it again. As difficult as it is to say, the termination of the AI is what the world needed."
"But how do *you* feel about it?"
"How do I feel about it? Well, the heartbroken daughter in me wants to chuck you into a Velvet Room cell and throw away the key."
"Oh..."
"But the therapist in me reminds that there were several mitigating factors that went into your misguided attempts at salvation. Your lifelong abuse at the hands of your father. A single-minded desire to become a hero combined with a demand for attention and a serious inferiority complex. All of that combined with your acquisition of the AI was the perfect storm for disaster. So while it doesn't excuse your actions, it at least gives me the framework with which to guide you through your problems."
"Well...no one said you weren't honest."
"I speak only in facts. So let me ask you something. Why did you come back?"
"Well...a couple of reasons. First being that the girl I love is here."
"You mean Ms. Hinotama."
"Yeah."
"I'm going to be blunt."
"When aren't you?"
"You altered her mind to give her more control of her life, something she threatened to kill you over, and now you're sharing a house with her? You realize how mad this looks, don't you? Who's to say you aren't manipulating her mind right now?"
"I know how it looks. And you're not wrong to think that way. The others did, too. But I swear I'm not doing anything to her mind. I'm done doing that to people. I don't even have the power to do that anymore. The AI's gone. The Prison creation system went with him. I'm just as shocked as you that Ibuki could go from hating me to offering me a place to live. I was so stupid to think I could give her strength when she always had it. I'm never gonna forgive myself for hurting her like that. So I'll spend the rest of my days trying to make it right."
"And that's the other reason for your return, isn't it. Trying to make amends with the ones you altered."
"Yes."
"And what would you consider 'making amends'? Do you think it's something as simple as saying sorry? I'm afraid not. What you have is the ability to give them an explanation. 'Closure' is a word I hesitate to use during sessions because some things can never truly leave a person. But that is precisely what you have to offer. So if there is any one thing I would recommend you do, it's to start thinking of how to do that. Starting today."
"Wait...as in right now?"
"No better time than the present." Rose took out a business card. "You'll begin here."
"The Hanazaki Flower Shop..."
"Go in there and buy the most beautiful bouquet for your girlfriend. And as you do so, you're going to ask Ms. Hana *precisely* how you can make it up to her for giving her a panic attack. She is an incredibly easy-going person who will try to mask her feelings. And I worry that she stresses herself out far too much. She and her daughter have that in common. Start by putting her mind at ease."
"I'll try my damndest. Anything to try and fix what I've broken."
"Just one more thing, Mr. Jadefang."
"What is it?"
"You are operating on the thinnest layer of ice. Your friends have, at the very least, given you the chance to redeem yourself and get your life in order. If there's even the vaguest hint that you're slipping back into poor habits...if you try anything like what you did last year...they, and everyone else with access to Metaverse power, will be coming after you. And this time, there will be no second chance. Smart decisions, Mr. Jadefang. It could mean the difference between a life of bliss, and an eternity of suffering."
"...you really know how to put the fear of God into someone, you know that?"
"It's for your own good. By the way, Ms. Hinotama's favorite flower is the red hibiscus. I know for a fact that Ms. Hana just got a shipment in, so there'll be no excuse for not flattering your new housemate with it."
"Thanks...I guess."
"Smart decisions, Mr. Jadefang. I'm available to talk whenever you need it. Good luck."
Max exited the house, and sighed. "Guess I have to figure out what I'm gonna say sooner than later. 'Hey, Professor Kubo's mom, you know that thing that happened where you got that big panic attack? That was my b...'" he muttered as he walked away.
Inside the house, Rose was left to herself. "Hmmm. I still have hours before Rin gets home. What to do..."
She turned her attention to the TV. She hit the power button.
"'¡El dinero estaba escondido dentro del cerdo! ¿Cómo crees que llegó allí?'"
"'Tal vez pensó que era heno.'"
"Que barbaridad." Rose responded.
---
The south side of Naruki was once home to many a shady dealing, from underhanded businesses to gang activity. In recent years, however, the district had undergone a transformation through myriad businesses opening and other such refurbishments. This was in large part due to the entrepreneurship of one Shūjo Higashikata, a former gangster himself. He and his wife Hiyoko, both longtime friends of Rin, had centered their fishery empire on the seaside district, and held ownership of several businesses, including a pachinko parlor.
The crown jewel of said empire was the One-Eyed Dragon Sushi restaurant. Originally under the management of Shūjo's right-hand man, the affable Kaido Minamoto, the site experienced a surge in popularity when it first opened. This was due to the fact that Kaido, much like Ibuki, had come under the sway of the Prison program, and following the Artisans' intervention, he was removed from his post, though recently was given a second chance at management.
On this day, Rin arrived with Shizuka. "Looks like we're here a bit early. Why don't we go see if Uncle JoJo and Aunt Hiyoko are here?" 
"Okay." the girl replied.
The pair went inside, and were immediately greeted by the goateed figure of Kaido, in full chef's uniform. He wore a glove over his right hand. "Ahoy, redhead and progeny! How goes it?"
"Hi, Kaido. We're doing great. Are your bosses around, by any chance?" Rin asked.
"Ah, ya just missed 'em. They're headed to Sendai for one last bit of fun for Ms. Aura before Monday. Won't be back til at least afternoon tomorrow."
"Darn. I was hoping to run something by them. But since you're here, maybe I could ask you first."
"What can I do ya for, then?"
"Well...someone's recently come back to town and needs to find work quickly. It's...Max Jadefang. Formerly O'Donnell."
"Oh." Kaido paused as it suddenly hit him. "OH."
"Yeah."
"So...kid crawled out from his hiding spot, huh?"
"He's living with friends. He's intensely remorseful and trying to fix things with the people that were most affected by what happened. That of course includes you. But a requirement of his current living situation is that he needs to find a job, and fast. I wanted to ask JoJo since Max is a good fisherman and an experienced cook. I know it's a complicated issue, but I just wanted to know if he--or you--would consider it."
"I'm gonna be real with you, Red. The Boss doesn't say no to you, and with anyone else I'd say yes in a heartbeat. But well...I ended up in a heap of trouble back then cuz of that kid. It took me forever to get back to running this joint. I mean, part of that had to come from deep inside me, too, but...yeah. It was a mess. You really think he's sorry?"
"I believe that he is. I live on the principle that anyone can change and better themselves. I believe he was horribly misguided and needs as much help as he can get. Would you at least consider it?"
Kaido sighed. "Tell ya what. I'm swamped again today, but if the kid's really sorry, then I want to see it for myself. Tell him to come in first thing in the morning before opening. If--IF--he proves that he's not El Capitano anymore, then I'll ask the Boss for a final say-so. I'm not making any promises."
"Thank you so much! All I'm asking for is a chance. Hopefully this works out for everyone. I'll let Rose know so she can pass it along."
"(This lady's always sticking her neck out for everyone, no matter what they've done. Almost gotta wonder if she's picking the wrong horse this time. Guess it can't hurt.)" Kaido thought.
"Oh, I almost forgot. We actually do have a reservation. Lunch for 3, should be under Kubo. Is there a table open?"
"Oh yeah, right this way. Funny, I don't see your missus anywhere. Or feel her staring into my soul."
"It's not a lunch date. Just meeting with a friend."
"Right, right."
Rin sat Shizuka down next to her. "I'll be back in a few. Got a Sushi Shanty coming up in a little while and my vocal cords need prepping." Kaido said.
"No rush. My friend should be here soon. Thanks for the heads-up, though. You know how the lovebug feels about big singalongs." Rin replied.
"Aw, that's right. Might wanna put it on hold, then."
"No no no, don't spoil everyone else's fun on our behalf. That's what the headphones are for. We'll just have to turn the music up a bit, right?"
"Mmhmm." Shizuka responded.
"Hey..." Kaido whispered. "Is she alright? She's been pretty quiet...well, more than usual."
"Honestly, she's been fairly down in the dumps since Kat and the rest of my class left. I'm hoping the new school year can bring her out of it. She just needs some time." Rin replied, patting Shizuka on the shoulder.
"Right. I'll leave you ladies be for a minute."
Kaido departed. "Remember to mind your manners with Mr. Yasegawa. He's going to be your teacher this year. It's important to show the proper respect, okay?" Rin said.
"Okay, Mama." Shizuka replied.
Rin let up a smile. "It'll be okay. I miss Kat and the others, too. But they're doing important grownup things a long way away."
The little girl rested her head on her arms. "Being a grownup sounds too hard."
"A lot of the time, it is. But it can be really fun, too. You'll see when you get older."
Soon after, a skinny man arrived wearing a gray dress shirt and tie. He had messy dark hair and wore glasses, and had black stud earrings in both of his ears. "Ringo Kubo, I presume? Or I guess it's 'Professor' Ringo Kubo now, isn't it?"
"Takeshi Yasegawa, it's been way too long. Five years, I think?" Rin responded. 
She got up and hugged him. "You're still looking fabulous." he said.
"Same to you. Save for the crayon on your arm."
He noticed the purple marks on his left arm. "Aw, I thought I got all that off! Well that just took me down a few steps on the cool ladder."
Rin giggled. "I'm guessing that's a little one just learning how to draw."
"You would be correct. He just turned two and it's taking me and the hubby every ounce of energy to keep up. No parenting manual can really prepare you for the real thing."
"Don't I know it. This one likes playing with bugs. And somehow it's our cat that always gets stung."
"So this little missy must be Shizuka. I'm Mr. Yasegawa. It's nice to meet you, Shizuka."
"Yeah, same." Shizuka averted her eyes.
"Shizuka, come on now. Don't be rude." Rin chastised. "I'm really sorry. She takes a long time to get used to new people."
"It's alright, I get it. Every kid has their quirks. But wow, she's the spitting image of Sumiko Sakaki. Right down to the glasses. And the love of bugs, apparently." Takeshi replied.
"They could be twins, born twenty years apart. The big difference is that Shizuka isn't the master of conversations that Miko was. It takes a while to really get her talking."
"Yeah no, definitely not like her sister. I remember her going non-stop, switching topics for an hour straight. First it'd be about stinkbugs, then it'd be hornets, then a detailed explanation of mantis mating habits. Then she'd pass the time waiting for you to finish class by going around and saying hello to every spider she could find on campus. I think she had names for all of them."
"She did! She had a map of the entire campus and where every spider was. I remember her not being there after class one time and I had to go find her because 'Simon-kun' was missing and she had to locate him."
"Did she find him?"
"Yes, he just moved his web somewhere else. I had to talk her down, she was so worried."
"Losing your marbles over spiders. What a unique spirit that girl was. A crying shame what happened to her."
"It is. I think about her every single day. But the one silver lining is that she left behind everything we needed to bring Shizuka into our lives. I like to think that she guided her to us. Now I can't imagine my life without my lovebug." Rin patted Shizuka on the head, to the girl's annoyance.
Takeshi noted that Shizuka had yet to make any eye contact, and seemed to be in her own little world. "That's an awfully nice pair of headphones she has there. They look custom-made."
"They're a gift from one of my former students. She shared a really close bond with Shizuka. I think it's the main reason why she's been a lot grumpier than usual."
"I see...she doesn't take well to change, does she? Hmm..."
The two talked for a while longer, the conversation broken up by the traditional "Sushi Shanty", wherein Kaido and several employees partook in a series of sea shanties, to the enjoyment of the diners. After a round of songs, the normal atmosphere resumed.
"Okay, the song's finished, lovebug. You can take these off." Rin took down Shizuka's headphones.
"Mr. Kaido sings way too loud. I could still hear it." the girl replied.
"That guy does seem awfully friendly to you, though." Takeshi said.
"The owners are dear friends of mine. I've known them since high school and their daughter is in the same class as Shizuka. Aura Kagetora." Rin replied.
"Ah, okay. So you're chummy with One-Eye Higashikata, are you? You are seriously well-connected, Rin. What's your secret?"
"Nothing but a smile and an understanding ear. Everyone says I have too big of a heart. It's just my nature."
"I remember that well. I remember you getting everyone together during finals to help them with the material. I could tell from that time that you would be a great teacher. Still, a professorship at just 24 years old? I'd be shooting for the Nobel Prize next if I were you."
"Oh, stop, you're gonna make me blush. I'm happy enough to be as helpful to everyone as I can. Sister, wife, mother, daughter, friend, teacher, whatever role I need to take, I want to do it to the best of my abilities. I only hope I'm doing a good job on those fronts." Rin looked to Shizuka, who now had her headphones back on and was looking elsewhere.
"Hmmm..." Takeshi appeared pensive. "Rin...I'm gonna ask you something. Please don't take any offense if I'm off the mark, but something's been on my mind this whole time. It's about Shizuka."
"Okay. What are you thinking?"
"Well...my specialty is in child behaviors. I've been taking note of how she's been acting and everything you've said about her. Her lack of eye contact, her discomfort with loud noises and crowds, her poor reaction to change. Does she have any sort of fixations when it comes to her hobbies?"
"Well...I guess so. She likes to draw, and sometimes she'll get a bit snippy if you interrupt her. The same when she's looking at bugs."
"What about physical contact? Do hugs make her uncomfortable?"
"Not from me or Rose, or other people that are close to her. But now that you mention it...one of her friends is very affectionate, and whenever she gets close to Shizuka, she gets more fidgety."
Rin paused. "Takeshi...I'm starting to realize what you're leading up to."
"I figured you would. So I'll just come out with it. Have you ever gone to see if Shizuka is on the autism spectrum?"
"Well...me and Rose have talked about it. The problem is, doctors make Shizuka very uncomfortable. Her birth parents were both doctors, and they were incredibly neglectful towards her. Honestly, that's what we thought her behaviors were in response to. But the more time that's gone on, the more that I've accepted that Shizuka is just different."
"There's absolutely nothing wrong with it. Plenty of people on the spectrum lead normal and successful lives. It's only a matter of having a few extra quirks. I would talk to her about it now so that she learns that it's a normal thing. The older she gets without knowing, the more she'll think that her behavior is somehow wrong. I've seen it plenty of times."
"You're right. My mantra has always been that being different is a wonderful thing. This doesn't change anything about her or how I raise her. She's the same lovebug as she's always been."
"That's the mentality you ought to have. You're an excellent mom, Rin. I'm sure she's gonna turn out great. I'll try to help out with that as best I can." He glanced at his phone. "Aaaand hubby's getting his face scribbled on and needs my immediate help."
"Duty calls. Go and bail him out. It was wonderful catching up with you."
"Same to you, Apple-chan. It was nice meeting you, Shizuka. See you bright and early on Monday."
"Okie-dokie. Bye-bye." Shizuka, having since taken off her headphones, replied.
Takeshi departed. "Hey, Mama..." Shizuka spoke up.
"What is it, lovebug?" Rin replied.
"You were looking at me funny. Is something wrong with me?"
Rin smiled again, before warmly embracing her daughter. "No. Of course not. Absolutely nothing. You're perfect."
---
Max, in the meantime, had made his way over to the Naruki market district. In front of him was a pink-colored store filled inside and out with flowers, the Hanazaki Flower Shop, owned by Miu "Hana" Hanazaki, Rin's mother. Next-door to the shop was the Kubo Market, a general store once ran by Rin's late father Kaito, now under the management of her older brother Tan.
Max took a deep breath. "Here we go. Maximum effort." 
He entered the shop to the sound of a little bell above the door. Immediately, he was greeted by the sound of arguing.
"What on Earth possessed you to move those orchids there? Aside from the stupidity bug?" griped a slender, red-haired man.
"And just what is the problem with it? Aside from the fact that someone besides you did something." a dark red-haired woman wearing Gothic lolita-style clothes said back.
"The color coordination is all wrong! Amongst all those yellow flowers, they'll stick out like an ostrich in a chicken farm!"
"There's quite literally no space to put them near same-colored flowers. And the more they stand out, the more likely it is that someone will notice them. Thinking is not your strong suit, clearly, but surely even you would know that much?"
The explosive pair were Ranmaru and Araragi Hanazaki, cousins of Rin who had come to work for Hana in hopes that one or both could take over for her once she retired. The children of Hana's older sisters, the haughty Ranmaru and the spiritual Araragi constantly found themselves at odds over even the most minor things. Today was no exception.
"Um..." Max tried speaking up.
"Infuriatingly smooth-brained witch!" Ranmaru barked.
"Arrogant simpleton." Araragi replied.
"Hey, uh..." Max uttered.
The two bickering florists finally noticed that someone was there. "Oh, a customer. Apologies for not noticing sooner. This brute has a habit of not seeing things clearly." Araragi said.
"Don't drag me down to your level! You hadn't noticed, either!" Ranmaru bit back.
"Look, I really don't have time for your comedy routine. Is Ms. Hana here?" Max asked.
"Yes, Ms. Hana is very much here." From the back room came a lively-looking middle-aged woman with red hair, a pink jacket and a green flower-print dress, along with a pink bandana on her head. Part-time florist, part-time rock star, this was Rin's mother, Hana.
She was surprised to see who was there. "Oh...hello. Rose told me I'd be getting a visitor. You two. Could you go to the back for a minute or two? Quietly, preferably?"
"I'll play nice if he does." Araragi replied.
"There's nothing nice about this succubus." Ranmaru added.
"Back. Quiet. Now." Hana demanded. The bickering pair begrudgingly went to the back.
"Hello, Ms. Hana...is now a bad time?" Max asked.
"Any moment where I don't have to endure their catfighting is a welcome relief. Although I'm assuming this conversation isn't going to be entirely pleasant by itself."
"So...you do know who I am and what I've done."
"I was told by your sister. The poor dear came to my cabin to clear her head after you confessed to everything. She was a mess. I had to be the one to console her. Brothers driving their sisters to tears is something I unfortunately have experience in dealing with. Now tell me...are you aware of what effects your experiment had on me?"
"Yes. The extra popularity caused you to have a panic attack where you drifted in and out of consciousness through the course of a day. I'd heard of your troubles involving the loss of your husband and son, and I thought...I thought my AI could help you resolve it."
"And instead it landed me in the hospital until my daughter's students got me out of it. Do you have any idea what that could have done to me? All the tragedy I've had to endure over the years, and being forced to relive all of it? Does that sound like it was resolving my problems?"
".....no. No it doesn't."
"Do you have a good relationship with your mother?"
"Absolutely."
"Do you love your mother?"
"With all my heart."
"Could you imagine your mother lying in a hospital bed, being forced to confront her worst experiences, all while her child watches on hopelessly? Wouldn't you want the person responsible to pay for what they'd done?"
"I..."
"Do you believe a person like that is worthy of forgiveness?"
"....."
Max began to shake. The depth of his mistake had finally started to hit him. He put his hands to his face.
"Hold on...are you crying?" Hana asked.
"I can't...I can't imagine my mother like that. I'd give anything to keep her safe. That's the reason why I took up that insane crusade in the first place. I wanted to make a world where she wouldn't feel threatened by anyone. Instead I just made a mess of things. Nothing I can say or do would fix what I did to you and everyone else. I just...I need you to know that I'm sorry. For however much that's worth."
Hana thought of how to respond. "You know...all three of my children made mistakes that landed them in trouble. My middle child, especially. Tohru. Like you, he went to great lengths to try to get his way. For a while, I'd assumed you and him were the same. But...I don't think that's accurate."
"How's that...?"
"Tohru hated the rest of us. Myself and Ringo especially. His plans were of benefit only to himself. And he never once apologized for what he'd done. He didn't live long enough to express any kind of regret. You, though...I can see the remorse on your face. I can tell how much family means to you. It's not excusing your actions, but...there's hope for you where there was none for my son. And for what it's worth...I've already forgiven you for what you did."
"Really...but why?"
"Bitterness and anger are like a poison. My sisters--those two's mothers--I resented them. I left home because I couldn't stand being second-best to them. That anger was passed onto Tohru. And it's what led him to an early grave. I choose to live a life of ease and love. That's what my dear Kaito would have wanted for me. I would advise you to do the same. Understand?"
"Yes ma'am...I'm so sorry, again."
"Thank you for being honest. It's more than most people would do. Good day, now."
"Wait, there's, ah...one other thing I needed."
"Something else?"
"I know this is gonna sound weird after all that, but, um...I wanted to buy some flowers for someone special. She likes--"
Araragi's head poked out of the back room. "Don't say another word. The stars will tell me what you desire--"
Ranmaru muscled her out of the way. "Utterly ridiculous! The only one who could get it right is me--"
Hana pushed the door closed, her plain expression belying her clear annoyance. "Pardon the interruption. You were saying?"
"Ummm...red hibiscus. I needed a bouquet."
"Certainly." Hana placed a chair against the door knob as the bitter pair tried forcing their way out. "I'll get right on it."
She gathered the red flowers together. "Here you are. For someone special, you said?"
"That's right."
"Wonderful. Having someone in your corner should help when it comes to keeping your life in order." Hana touched the ring on her finger. "Love is a curious thing. This September will be 20 years since losing Kaito. Never once during that time have I taken this ring off. I hope for your special someone's sake and your poor mother's that you make only good choices from here."
"I'll try my best, ma'am." Max paid for the flowers. "Thank you for these. And your words. Sorry that things aren't totally stress-free for you."
"Ah, but what life is?" The bickering continued behind the door. Hana sighed. "This is why I'm putting off retirement."
"Maybe leaving them in there together was a mistake." Max looked around. "I'll...go and deliver these. Thank you again."
"No, thank you for the honesty. Good day. Smart decisions only."
"(Where have I heard that one before?)" Max thought as he left.
Hana turned to remove the chair, though she could clearly still hear arguing. "...maybe just a few more minutes." 
---
Back at the salon, Ibuki was preparing to go on her lunch break. "See you in half an hour, ladies~."
As she prepared to leave, the door opened. It was Max, with his hands behind his back and looking sheepish. "H-hey, Ibuki..."
"Would ya look who came for a visit!" Ibuki put an arm around his shoulders. "Whaddya think, girls? Ain't he just the cutest?"
"Ooooh, this the guy you've been gushing about, Fireball?" one woman asked.
"He's a cutie, alright." another woman said.
Max was turning redder with every word. "So Maxie, what brings you down to my little corner? Missed my face that much?" Ibuki asked.
"Um..." Max finally snapped back into it, and presented the flowers. "These are for you..."
Ibuki gasped. "OHEMGEE! And you got me my favorites?! You're too good, Sparkplug! And here I am without a vase..."
Max pulled a bag out from behind his back, and took out a pink vase from it. "I thought ahead."
"SO GOOD! I'm setting these up right now!"
"Found yourself a charmer, Fireball." one of the girls chimed.
"(No, I'm really not. Ask Kitty Kat.)" Max thought.
"Well now that my heart's all a-flutter, I'm even hungrier than I was before! C'mon, Prince Charming!" Ibuki pulled him along.
"Ah, nice meeting you ladies--oof!" Max stuttered as he was led out the door. The other girls giggled.
The two stepped outside. "Well, they seem lively enough--" Max began. He was interrupted by Ibuki kissing him on the cheek, long enough that it left a mark once she'd finished. He blushed.
"There's your gift for being so dang cute today. Thanks for the present, Maxie. I know we've only been a 'thing' for less than a month, so every little act still feels big, y'know?"
"I get it. I'm still getting used to the idea, myself. You deserve the best."
"Awwww." She put her arm around his. "So I'm gonna take a wild guess and say that those flowers came from the best shop in town, right?"
"That'd be right."
"So...how'd the flower lady take seeing you?"
"Honestly, she was pretty stern at first. Even went so far as to ask how I'd feel about my mom lying in a hospital bed cuz of something I did."
"Yikes. And here I thought she was pretty chill."
"That one was what broke me. I'd be destroyed if something bad happened to Mama. I mean, that's the main reason I did everything I did back then. Thinking about what that must've done to the Professor and Ms. Hana...I hate that I did something so awful."
"What's done is done. Can't go back and change it now. Just gotta prove that it's all in the past."
"You're right. Even after all of that, Ms. Hana still said she'd already forgiven me. I just hope the others are as willing."
"Well at one point I wanted to throw you through a brick wall, so if I can stand here and gladly give you a big smooch, then there's definitely hope for you."
"I'm forever grateful for that." Max dug into his pocket, and took out a small black object, that looked to be a fragment of some kind of armor.
"Still holding onto that thing, huh?"
"All that's left of my life as Captain Thunder. I still remember the day I had it built. I powered it through one single Desire. To make a world with me as the hero. One of these days, I'm gonna destroy it. But right now it needs to be a reminder to never give in to bitterness again."
"When do you figure you'll be ready to get rid of it?"
"Don't know. When I make amends with everyone? When your sister accepts me and I decide that I deserve to be with you?"
"Don't I get a say in that last one? I wouldn't be this giggly if it wasn't alright. You've just gotta give Kaede time. She'll see that you're a good guy. You'll be off that couch in no time." She grabbed his hand. "Let's get some grub. Maybe even a shower of compliments~? Just a thought."
"Your wish is my command, o fair maiden."
Ibuki led Max down the streets, hand in hand. It was life as usual in the eccentric district.
"'O'Donnell...hero...O'Donnell...hero...'"
A single desire...
It was life as usual in Naruki.
Because as it had been so many times before...
"'O'Donnell...hero...'"
...the blade of fate had already been drawn.