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<center><b>Inaba - Commercial District - January 28th, 2010. IC Time: 6:00 PM.</b></center>






(((Yoh Yamagatani poses.)))<br>
The Inaba Commercial District. Around this time in the evening sees an unusual amount of traffic in the area. Whether it be folks changing work shifts, or finally getting around to doing the needed shopping if they are not fans of Junes. Thankfully, people still support the smaller proprietary shops, and they remain open to this day.

The cold air nips at those outside, fortunately it seems to be slowly warming up as days go by. Small snow deposits still cling to spots in the ground near areas in between shops, or areas left traveled. The walkways are completely clear of snow, due to salting or just high traffic. Though there are people walking out and about, the area has a peaceful quietness about it that is rather enjoyable.

Of course, one shop nearby just made a rather good sale, a person emerging from the floral shop down the street. A teenage boy appears to be carrying a crate of plants, varying from year round orchids to bonsai trees. Over one of the shoulders of the person is several planks of wood, which appear lacquered or stained. As he looks about, he takes a breath and a small cloud of fog wafts from his mouth. Sporting his rather new black jacket is Yoh Yamagatani.

While most do not know it, Yoh is actually working on the Luanrvale Shrine, attempting to save it from its state of disrepair. A large project he undertook himself. It is a shame he has to travel so far for good things though, as Lunarvale does not seem to have the best selection of shops for whatever reason. he didn't mind travel though, despite the fact that a huge amount of the weird crap he has seen has happened within these city limits.

As he begins to trod down the street, peering around the crate. He wonders what the heck has been plaguing him these past days. Several days back he began to get this strange tingling sensation whenever he focused on certain people, and it bugged him to no end. He scheduled a doctor's appointment to have it check out, but the results showed nothing, and that it was possibly just him focusing too hard on people. Either way, it bothered him, and was determined to find a cure eventually. Well, maybe after the shrine work.



(((Yuu Tenjou poses.)))<br>
Yuu Tenjou is bundled up against the waning cold, hands stuffed in his school uniform pockets and a nondescript scarf wrapped around his neck. His expression is characteristically aloof, introvert that he is.

Having been in Inaba now for a little over week, his evening explorations have familiarized him a bit with his new home and surrounding areas. He's actually growing a bit fond of the run-down commercial district; something about it seems nostalgic and comforting to him. Could be the quiet. Could possibly have something to do with his now-regular evening visits for dinner that keep him out of the new house. Either way, hey.

Thus, Yuu finds himself this evening walking down the street, headed to one of the eateries looking for a meal. He's beginning to wonder how much longer he's going to keep avoiding his parents at home, but... Eh. Let's not think about it. Things will just sort themselves out if he works hard enough.

Right?



(((Chiaki Ichikawa poses.)))<br>
"Blow, blow, thou winter wind, thou art not so unkind as man's ingratitude."

--As You Like It, Act II, Scene vii

A particular English teacher mused upon this thought as she made her way down the sidewalk. She shivered, wrapping her white scarf more tightly around her neck. That bloody idiot. She'd always had bad luck with her love life, and her latest stint hadn't exactly ended well either. However, if she did have a problem with her social life, she certainly kept it separated from her professional one -- her curriculum for the second- and third-years at Yasogami High were as strict as ever, and with no signs of easing either.

She heaved a sigh as she hefted a thick plastic bag, its general 'Thank You For Your Purchase' lettering recognizable as being from the bookstore near the gas station. Fiction had always relaxed her -- curling up with a crisp hardcover and a cup of green tea in front of a space heater in a cold winter's night does wonders for one's stresses. Ah well. This is no time to be so despondent, anyways. She's got to keep up appearances! 

*growl*

...And get dinner. Yes, dinner. Something... hot. And high in calories.

And so, she trudges on, almost oblivious to the world around her, weighing her options on where to eat.



(((Reki Kurusu poses.)))<br>
Reki Kurusu is making his way back from one of his rare commercial excursions, the sort where he buys things, as opposed to work for money supposedly to earn them... 

Of course, what Reki buys is far from the fun sort of thing a fourteen year old boy should buy. He has a large bag full of cleaning supplies, tools, and various other sundries. 

He does pause as he spots the woman, trudging through the snowy streets and makes her way over towards her. One should help his elders, and help women, and the English teacher appears to be both, "Ma'am? Do you need assistance in carrying your goods? Perhaps to the bus, or your home?"



(((Yu Narukami poses.)))<br>
Yu Narukami steps off the bus from the train station, pulling his scarf around him as he looks around the snow covered Inaba. It had been a few days since he'd been back here. Yu had taken the time to visit his parents while they were in the country. Now they left and he was back here in Inaba. A part of him smiled. g;ad to be back somewhere and not coming off that bus for the first time. He had spent too much of his young life moving around and was pretty scared when his parents were transferred to America. But they sent him to live with his Uncle and that's where he's been for awhile now. 

Yu pulls his duffel bag over his shoulder, looking around Inaba before he starts off into the Commercial District. Maybe he should get Nanako something before he heads home? 

Maybe if the convenience store was open, he could get her some ice cream. If it wasn't, there was always Junes. 

Yu walks down the street, passing the others. He nods politely, not sure if he knows those kids. That would be surprising since Inaba was such a close knit town. 

Yu does spot the English teacher, smiling uneasily. He was pretty good in English but he was always awkward among the strict teachers.



(((Chidori Yoshino poses.)))<br>
If it made Yoh feel any better, he would feel absolutely no mysterious mental tingle from the girl in a fancy white dress currently heading down the street in the direction of the river.

One of the good things about the old Commercial District of Inaba was its unpopularity, compared to Junes. This meant few would be around to gawk and stare at her, which wasn't actually what Chidori cared about; it was the inevitable upgrade to asking nosy questions about her life, her hobbies, and whether she happened to be free for a thinly-disguised date, that irked her.

But why was Chidori here in the first place? And why did it look like she had some sort of <i>purpose</i>, unlike her usual excursions to Inaba meant entirely to get away from the bustle of Port Island?

Whatever it was, it did not include running across one Yu Narukami, who was familiar enough to Chidori from their encounters in the Dark Hour and Mikage-cho. Chidori stopped in her tracks, and considered turning back around. Then again, it was likely that she had already been spotted.

... especially by the other familiar face she saw. Hadn't he been at Akimoto's street-preaching session? And spouting lines about duty and rules and all that. Weirdo.



(((Yoh Yamagatani poses.)))<br>
Peering around the crate, Yoh tries is best to navigate around people. It is rather large and heavy though, underestimating the weight of the box while picking out plants. Not that he couldn't handle it; he could just take more breaks, setting it down. It would make for good martial arts training anyway. Of course Yoh labeled pretty much anything strenuous as training.

As the boy went about his way, far up ahead, he hadn't noticed Reki or Chiaki quite yet, as they were rather far up ahead, and obscured by the crate. Though, he did catch sight of an individual that stuck out of any crowd. It was that mean goth girl he met in Inaba a few days back, as well as seeing her at Port Island in the darker areas during some sort of cultist sermon. She sure dressed... well it wasn't weird, or along the lines of unique, as it was all that terrible of a look. Of course he did not want to get close enough to her to compliment that, lest he feel the lash of her tongue for no apparent reason. Yoh tried his best to ignore the girl, and continued on his way. He did notice someone heading toward him with... an odd hair color, to say the least. What was that? Gray or Silver? Either way, someone that young with that color he hadn't seen before. Ah well, Yoh didn't really keep up with trends that much, so that could be the 'in' thing elsewhere. Of course, concentrating on these thoughts he nearly smacks into someone, and barely dodges them, almost losing his balance and the wood slung over his shoulder.



(((Yuu Tenjou poses.)))<br>
Huh. The street seems unusually crowded compared to Yuu's previous evening visits. Realizing this, the teenage boy attempts to focus his attention on where he's walking instead of what he's thinking about... or trying not to think about... or, well. You know. He'd really prefer not to embarrassingly collide into any more people. Ever.

Is that <i>still</i> bothering him? Yuu, come on. Get over it. Nobody probably even remembered the two incidents. Let it go.

Exhaling his sudden stress a little bit into the crisp air, Yuu then spots a somewhat familiar figure. Yamagatani-san, maybe? It's been a few days, and they only spoke briefly in Okina, but Yuu recognizes him.

Was he carrying... plants? Ah. There's something Yuu had a bright interest in. He should really get a garden going at the new house, like the one he and his sister-

Yuu pushes the thought away, shaking his head and trying not to scrunch up his face in visible pain at the memory. Hesitating for a moment to wrestle between his natural inclination to be quiet and his desire to make friends, Yuu forces himself to alter his path to head over to Yamagatani-san, trying to wave him down. "Hey, Yamagatani-san...! Need a hand...?"



(((Yu Narukami poses.)))<br>
Yu has spotted Chidori. Her style of dress already draws attention, so does her weird head arrow thing. Yu just sort of frowns, not really liking someone of her affiliation in Inaba. But there was nothing he could do at this time of day and maybe she was just visiting for something. ...Yu tries to remain positive despite the slight apprehension in his stare, scanning after the gothloli. 

Finally feeling this was pointless, Yu turns his head to look at the boy carrying flowers, adjusting the strap of his duffel bag on his shoulder. "Hey, do you---" He hears someone else offer help, closing his mouth as his eyes go to the other person he doesn't know very well. 

Yu looks over at the two of them, running a hand through his natural hair color. That's right lad...y, this isn't dyed.



(((Chiaki Ichikawa poses.)))<br>
Of course, Chiaki snaps out of her stupor as she's asked that question. Of course, snapping out of deep thought is sometimes just as jarring and abrupt as hearing one's alarm clock go off two hours too early. 

"Huh? Whuh?" She turns to face the source of the voice -- and surprisingly, finds it almost eye-level. And in a middle school uniform? Ah, a student, albeit a rather... tall and weathered-looking one. She glances him over; her immediate impression was that he was held-back, but the lack of youthful arrogance that the youngsters of this nation generally had seemed to tell her otherwise. 

She forces a polite smile. "I think I should be telling that to you, kiddo." She replies, lifting up her bag with relative ease. Indeed, while books are certainly rather heavier than your usual duster or bottle of lemony-fresh floor cleaner, one doesn't generally go out and buy many books at the same time. "Thanks for the offer, though."



(((Reki Kurusu poses.)))<br>
Reki Kurusu nods, "I hope I have not interrupted your shopping. I felt it appropriate to offer you assistance, given the state of the weather." 

He hasn't noticed the others yet, not even on a resonance level as he's still not quite attuned to seeking it out, even while he broadcasts his own like some sort of emo loud speaker... 

He gets a look of panic, "...I am sorry, my manners are failing me. I have failed to introduce myself. I am Reki Kurusu, Middle School student."



(((Chidori Yoshino poses.)))<br>
Chidori circled the group warily, moving as close as she could. If nothing else, Yu's presence might lead to something Interesting happening.

But here was... oh, right, the gullible fellow who had bought one of Akimoto's "love charms". Carrying a crate of flowers and plants. Why? Some sort of part-time job? Was he going to start a greenhouse or something?

Hm.

Chidori deliberately moved towards Reki and Yoh, keeping an eye on Yu's reaction. The other, older woman was ignored, at least until she did something interesting and unusual. So would the other pretty-boy. In fact, Reki and Yoh would probably also be ignored for the time being, as Chidori made sure that she had Yu's attention.

And then, with what looked faintly like a self-satisfied smirk, she blanked out everyone's resonance.



(((Yoh Yamagatani poses.)))<br>
As Yoh readjusted the crate, he heard a somewhat familiar voice. He remembered it from somewhere, but he wasn't sure where. He turned to face Yuu, whom he didn't remember the name of right off the bat. "Hey! You're Hamada-san's friend, um...." Yoh snapped his fingers a few times to help him remember. As if that actually helped in any form. "...Tenjou-san, I believe? Forgive me if I am wrong. Not good with names until they are drilled into my head." After greeting, he shook his head, hoisting the box up higher. "I am good, thanks though! Trying to get my strength up."

As Yu walks up and begins to speak, Yoh turns to the teenager. He didn't quite recognize him, but it was a kind gesture. "What was that, my friend?" he said with a smile, trying to be polite in return. Though, out of the corner of his eye, he noticed the white goth girl had somewhat stopped. Maybe she saw him? Either way, didn't matter really. A few moments later, he noticed that buzzing feeling in the back of his mind had completely shut off for some reason. This of course made him VERY glad! It was so irritating, but now it subsided for now, so he began to feel rather good!

Meanwhile, the two folks nearby seemed so familiar as well. Maybe if he gets the chance he can find out who they are.



(((Yuu Tenjou poses.)))<br>
Yuu smiles politely at Yamagatani-san, blissfully unaware of the crazy resonance shenanigans taking place. Personawhat?

He manages to be a bit more friendly, now that he's overcome the initial hurdle of initiating contact. Go Yuu! You can do it!

"Indeed, Tenjou it is."

Eyeballing the things Yamagatani-san's carrying, he keeps to his side to let him walk easily enough. Plants. Talk about the plants, Yuu. You know plants. "So, ah... that's quite a bit of stuff you got there. What're you planning on doing with it, if you don't mind me asking?"

At about this time, Yuu notices the Gothic lolita girl dressed in white. She's kind of hard to miss really. He stares a bit curiously, before realizing the staring is kind of, well. Rude. Cut it out. 

Yuu rubs the back of his head a little sheepishly at himself, still unaware of the others, familiar and not.



(((Yu Narukami poses.)))<br>
Yu smiles, looking over at Tenjou with a nod. Well it was nice to be back in Inaba. Yu's gaze does wander over to Chidori on occasion, trying to make sure she didn't try anything still. Nothing yet but she approached for a reason. 

"Uh, yeah. you looked like you needed some help so I wanted to ask if you were ok." Yu looks over at Yoh and smiles awkwardly. "I mean you're from school here right?" Yu asks pretty bluntly, not sure if he's seen this kid before. "I'm Seta, Yu...2nd year. Nice to meet you." He tries to be polite, looking over at Tenjou with the same smile.



(((Chiaki Ichikawa poses.)))<br>
Chiaki shakes her head and keeps on smiling. That's it. Look happy. "Don't worry about it," she replied, "But... you may want to save it for people who really do need help." For a moment, she glances around... huh, quite a few familiar faces today.

For one, there's that kid that she'd ran into now and again, ever since that Antiques store incident. Ah, well. Small country, after all.

And then... Mr. Seta. She recognized him from class. That other teacher with the glaring tie and the huge overbite, Mr. Whatsisnamefromdownthehall she had deemed him, warned her about him and his posse long long ago. Ah, well. Aside from missing lots of class time during the Lunarvale crisis, she really didn't have too much against them.

After that, Mr. Hamada. Ah, another transfer student from the big city. And just another overachiever in the school system. They secretly got on her nerves. And... hey, another one, Mr. Tenjou. Hamada Shou. Tenjou Yuu. Shou. Yuu. Shoyuu (Soy Sauce). Ahaha. Right. Moving on.

Then, out of the corner of her eye, there's Shinjuku goth-loli girl. Chiaki was never one to like frills. But... nothing of note, really. She'd almost missed her amongst the whiteness of the snow -- but red hair is not exactly quiet either. 

Irregardless, back to the matter at hand. Introductions! She returns the bow, although shallower. More of a nod, really. "Ichikawa Chiaki. I'll probably see you later, then. I teach 2nd and 3rd year English at Yasogami."



(((Reki Kurusu poses.)))<br>
Reki Kurusu nods, "I see, ma'am.... I am fated to have to attend Yasogami, contingent upon my exams being sufficient, which I believe they will be." 

He does follow her gaze, noticing the familiar face of Yamagatani and then....that strange woman... 

He looks back to Chiaki, glad there's a teacher here, but...struck by the realization that if something happens he's obliged to protect /her./ 

Even with recognizing the other figures, he seems at a loss as to how to address them, and stands there, watching...



(((Chidori Yoshino poses.)))<br>
Chidori's reason for approaching was simple enough: what would much-vaunted Ally Of Justice And Truth Yu Narukami do with varying amounts of provocation?

However, Yu didn't look like he wanted to play. Chidori made a small sound of irritated exasperation, as she turned to look at the others. Was it introduction time already? Chidori made note of the names. Yoh, Yuu (well, "Tenjou"), Reki, Chiaki...

Wait, <i>fated</i> to attend Yasogami?

What is it with you and your 'fate'?" Chidori snapped, before realizing that she had spoken aloud. Well, whatever. "Can't you think for yourself?"



(((Yoh Yamagatani poses.)))<br>
Yoh smiled, actually getting a name right for once. "Ah, excellent. I will make sure to remember your name next time better." The boy decided to set down the large crate of plants and orchids once he was addressed about them. Might as well take a small break since he was being talked to. "Well, believe it or not, I am attempting to fix up the Lunarvale Shrine. It is in horrible disrepair right now. though I have fixed the floor tiling, most of the decor and flags. A lot to go though." Might as well tell people. he was making good progress.

As Yu introduces himself to Yuu, Yoh turns to face him directly and courteously bows, then offers a friendly handshake, figuring it would be good manners to introduce himself as well. "Nice to meet you, Seta-san. I am Yoh Yamagatani, St. Hermelin High, first year. I was just here picking up some bonsai and orchids to fix the garden area to the shrine I mentioned. Seems to get a lot of butterflies for some reason, so I figure I would get them something they would like!" At the end there he was more or less speaking ot them both, turning to face them.

After turning, and not having a big crate in his face, he got a good look at who was a few steps away. It was the lady teacher, and Reki. Small world, yet again. He waved to both energetically, but it gets cut short as he jumps slightly at a nearby outburst. Seeing that it was clearly that goth girl. He rubs his forehead, looking rather uncomfortable being somewhere near her. "Chipper as ever, it seems," he says quietly, remembering how she acted the last two encounters.



(((Yuu Tenjou poses.)))<br>
Yuu finally notices Seta-san, apparently missing him earlier when Yamagatani-san spoke to him. Way to not pay attention.

He returns Seta-san's smile, listening as he speaks to Yamagatani-san and putting on the best friendly expression he can muster. It isn't half bad, honestly. Good job on the social interaction, Yuu. Overhearing Seta-san speak, he interjects quietly, "Ah, you're a second year at Yasogami too? I really should know who my classmates are by now, honestly..." He laughs a little sheepishly, bowing slightly before shoving his cold hands back into his pockets. "Tenjou, Yuu. I'm a recent transfer student."

Turning to Yamagatani-san as he replies to the inquiry about the stuff he was carrying, Yuu nods, looking quite a bit interested. You have gardener Yuu's attention! "Oh, that sounds like a lot of fun honestly!"

Before he continues however, his attention is drawn to the red-haired Gothic lolita girl. More specifically, his attention is drawn to her sudden outburst. Though a bit more crowded than normal, the area is still relatively empty enough to notice such a thing. Or maybe his strong aversion to conflict caused his attention to gravitate toward it. Who knows.

What was going on? Ah... there was that boy he briefly saw in Okina... with Ichikawa-sensei? Is that who she's yelling at?



(((Yu Narukami poses.)))<br>
Yu laughs a little and nods as Yoh and Yuu introduce themselves. "It's a pleasure to meet you both." He listens to Yoh's project and nods again, looking at the flowers. "Oh that's probably going to be pretty nice. Good luck!" He turns back to Yuu and nods. "I was a transfer as well so I know how it is." Yu was a transfer student a lot of the time. You might call him a professional. He stops as his phone beeps as it receives a text. He quickly checks it and frowns. "I'm sorry Yoh but I don't think I can help after all. I need to get back to my Uncle's to help with some chores. It was nice meeting you." Yu turns away, starting quickly for the residential part of town. He nods quickly Chiaki, bowing slightly. "Sensei." And just like that he hurries away and out of sight.



(((Chiaki Ichikawa poses.)))<br>
Chiaki isn't too bothered about the 'fated' comment, although it does make her quirk an eyebrow. After all, it's such a strong and heavy-handed term, isn't it? Of course, it looks like Ms. Shinjuku Lolita over here agrees. She glances between the both of them. "I imagine the two of you know each other?"

Of course, she gives Yu a light nod as he passes. "Mr. Seta."



(((Reki Kurusu poses.)))<br>
Reki Kurusu looks at Chiaki, "Yes, ma'am, we have met before. I do not recall her providing a name however..." He looks back to Chidori, "...yes, I think for myself. Fate still plays into things. There are things in this world which are unavoidable. Attendance at certain high schools is determined by immutable factors of grades and geographic requirement."



(((Chidori Yoshino poses.)))<br>
Chidori raised an eyebrow. Then she lowered it, as her eyes narrowed.

"You wear your chains willingly, then. Refusing to even consider that they could be removed. Do you /need/ to believe in your precious duty so much? Have you nothing else?"

And then, almost offhand: "Chidori Yoshino."



(((Yoh Yamagatani poses.)))<br>
Yoh stretches a moment, before continuing. They both seemed interested in the shrine work. Neat. He begins addressing both Yu and Yuu. "Well, it will be worth it in the end. It is hard work, but the city is willing to recognize it once it is in working order. It is really something for me to do in my spare time, otherwise I would probably just be sitting around."

As Yu leaves, Yoh waves to him and wishes him good fortune. Though, his happy-go-lucky smile is short lived, as it sounds like a repeat of the back alleys in Port Island is going on a few yards away. Sigh. Why must people push their ideals on others? He looks over at Reki and Chiaki, then to the goth girl. Though, it sounded like she mentioned her name? Huh, strange. We, he would have to remember it. Well, as best he can, anyway.

For the time, he just stands there, watching the scene.



(((Yuu Tenjou poses.)))<br>
Yuu's attention is drawn back to Seta-san as he makes his exit. He smiles politely again in farewell, though he's a bit distracted by the Gothic lolita girl... Yoshino-san, apparently? in his peripheral vision. He /really/ disliked even mild confrontation, even if he wasn't the one being confronted here. Something about the low self-esteem and introversion mixed delightfully to encourage conflict-avoidance behavior, no doubt. Maybe the circumstances of his sister's death added to it as well, but who wouldn't have issues after such an incident, eh?

It seemed like it wasn't getting out of hand though, causing Yuu to tentatively breathe a quiet sigh of relief. He tries to engage Yamagatani-san a bit more to keep himself from just staring at the other three figures. "That's great that the city is willing to recognize it... " He hesitates a moment. Social interaction go! "If you ever, you know, need any help on it or anything, I'd be interested. I love gardening work, at least..."



(((Chiaki Ichikawa poses.)))<br>
For now, Chiaki stays the quiet observer, watching the two go back and forth. Yoshino Chidori, was it? The name didn't ring a bell, and she certainly would have recognized her if she was in Yasogami. Or would she? After all, no one in their right mind would try to go to school every day out of uniform, and she's found that having odd-colored hair seems to be a growing trend amongst Japanese teens nowadays, strangely enough. 

As for her opinions on fate... well, she didn't believe in it. Coincidences yes, but not some invisible force drawing certain actions and events to happen. Well, outside of general casualty, of course -- if you light a match and hold it against a sheaf of paper, you can't NOT expect it to start burning.



(((Reki Kurusu poses.)))<br>
Reki Kurusu looks back at Chidori, "Yoshino-san... The chains of duty are willingly worn. Their weight strengthens us, ties us to others. Why do you think anything else is needed?"



(((Chidori Yoshino poses.)))<br>
This would indeed be the first time anyone present had heard Chidori's name. She simply wasn't the chatty sort, unlike others in Strega; her job wasn't to convert others, it was to hide resonances, and occasionally bury her axes in someone else's head.

And her introduction had not included any further information, like where she was from or whether she even attended school, or was some sort of <i>delinquent</i>.

She stared at Reki, trying to parse his simple words into a form she could comprehend. The chains of duty... who put them there? Who decided how heavy these chains were? And how could anyone live like that, tied down to an endless toil of fate and duty?

"You must have a very boring life," Chidori stated.



(((Yoh Yamagatani poses.)))<br>
Continuing to listen to what was happening, Yoh turned to Yuu, to continue a conversation. Maybe this would ease some of the tension present. "I know, isn't it?" He waited until he finishes to speak up again. "Sure thing! I know I need to put in some larger trees, like dogwood or one of those blossoming trees. I know how to do basic gardening, but big stuff, no clue." Yoh thought about something for a minute. "How can I get a hold of you?"

As Yoh listens to the conversation behind him, it didn't sound like this Chidori person was as well versed as the veiled woman from before, turning to insults after her initial argument statement. He did know Reki was firm in his beliefs, as at the shrine they compared their motives, goals and duties, and he stuck to his like glue. Of course, Yoh didn't challenge his, as the boy believes deeply that people should believe in what makes them happy in life. After a few minutes, he turns to Reki and Chiaki, taking a seat next to his crate. He made sure to keep an eye on Mrs. Yoshino as well.



(((Reki Kurusu poses.)))<br>
Reki Kurusu frowns, staring back at Chidori, "...I live a very good life. I do not harm anyone. I help my mother. I work towards an honorable and true goal." 

He nods, "...the chains are heavy, but each link was forged with care. We must not abandon our responsibilities..."



(((Yuu Tenjou poses.)))<br>
Fumbling around in his pocket, Yuu fishes out his cellphone. Kids and their phones. "I've got my phone on me most of the time, so this is probably the best way." He smiles politely at Yamagatani-san. Huzzah gardening work! "Care to exchange numbers?" he asks, assuming Yamagatani-san has a phone of his own.

As they continue talking, Yuu keeps his attention half on Yoshino-san and the others, feeling a bit flighty about the whole thing. He also recalls his reason for being here in the first place with a start: food. Thanks stomach. Good enough reason to shuffle along and away from the possibility of more uncomfortable conflict at least. Turning fully to Yamagatani-san, he adds, "I should also probably get going; I've yet to eat a decent dinner yet. It was nice running into you, though!"



(((Chiaki Ichikawa poses.)))<br>
Chiaki was getting a little impatient now -- a growling stomach can be a very compelling impetus to move on, under the right circumstances. "Well," she says, straightening out her clothing, "As much as I would love to listen to this wonderful debate on fate and free will, I have other responsibilities to take care of." Namely, eating. And then reading a probably enjoyable book in front of a warm space heater. "Have a nice evening." She says to the folks in general as she turns and departs.



(((Chidori Yoshino poses.)))<br>
Chidori turned her head to the side at Reki's reply, a hand to her mouth.

"Snrk."

Apparently whatever was going through her mind regarding Reki's sense of duty counted as high comedy. Exactly why she found it so funny, though...

"We will meet again," she said, sweeping her gaze towards Yoh and Reki. "I'm sure of that." Her smirk faded into her usual expression of deadpan irritation. "See you in Port Island."

Chidori turned on her heel to leave, but paused. "One more thing," she said, before turning everyone else's resonance back on.



(((Yoh Yamagatani poses.)))<br>
As he listens to the debate more, Yoh fishes out a cellphone from his pocket. A rather high end model one. Unusual for Yoh as he wasn't one for fancy things. "Sure, let me give you mine..." The boy takes out a small pen and paper from his jacket pocket and writes his number down on it, folding it and then presenting it to Yuu. As the boy decides to leave, Yoh bows to him. "Likewise, Tenjou-san. Good fortune to you."

As he turns back to the awkward scene, he frowns slightly at the sight of Chiaki leaving. He didn't even get to say hello. Though he is taken back as he is suddenly glared at, and told that strange line. What did it mean? It sure was creepy. After a few moments though, that buzzing sensation gets back into his head. Ugh, how unfortunate.

Might as well get out of here though, he decides. He begins to cart up the large crate and wood, and begins to be on his way. Next stop: Lunarvale Shrine.







<center><b>Lunarvale - Unnamed Shrine - 11:30 PM.</b></center>







(((Yoh Yamagatani poses.)))<br>
Standing tall in the cold night, is the Lunarvale Shrine. This cultural location once revered as a place of moderation as well as meditation now lies in disarray on the outside, the erosion of time taxing its appearance. Though to most it looks unsalvageable, some subtle changes have slowly been made in the past days, easily spotted by most people if the look hard enough.

For instance, the sight lead to it looks brand new; a fresh coat of paint, sealant, and buffing as rendered it spotless. The flags that wave in the misty breeze look vibrant now, as if the shrine opened yesterday. The tile, once wrecked and broken by growths and bulging earth now grouted and polished, and smooth as ever. the masks that coat the walls look well cleaned, and show their faces well.

Disorder still remains though, as some parts of the walls are rotted or broken, and the roof is smashed in parts. The garden is probably the biggest mess in the center of the shrine, weeds and other plants coat it, rendering the zen garden and orchid beds that seemed to attract droves of butterflies now gone under a sea of green. Thankfully, someone who planned to repair this just walked through the shrine entry.

Yoh Yamagatani, the person responsible for these subtle changes, waltzes in, lugging a few pieces of stained and lacquered wood, as well as a large crate filled with beautiful orchids and bonsai tree saplings. The boy took this task upon himself to do something helpful in the community, as well as find himself in the process. Setting the crate and wood in a corner, he takes a breather, popping open a soda that was in his pocket. He couldn't find these things in Lunarvale, so he had to go all the way to Inaba to get them, where he had a strange run-in with that white dressed goth girl. Well, it was behind him, and so was that tingling sensation he seemed to get around certain people, thankfully. It bothered him badly. Especially since his doctor declared it bunk, and nothing to worry about on a trip there yesterday.

As he sat there looking at the stars, he felt inside he was doing a good thing. Maybe one day he will have something to show for it. If not, at least he would know he did something to change the world, in some small way.



(((Yukiko Amagi poses.)))<br>
Yukiko Amagi did not get out of Inaba much. With the tight leash imposed by her mother and father, the only ways she got out of town was either by subterfuge, (which did not work as well as she might have liked since Mikage-cho,) or by accompanying her father on his business trips. While he would have preferred that she attend the negotiations with him, to learn about the sort of business that she herself may one day face when the inn was hers, Mr. Amagi was sympathetic to his daughter's plight. 

And so Yukiko found herself wandering the streets of Lunarvale, alone. Normally she would drift to the bars and shops of Lunarvale - hoping to find someone her age to make an attempt to chat at, but the sight of the temple arches draw her attention. She thought of the shrine back in Inaba - worn, downtrodden - but so much good had happened there. It was a shame that the old religions were seemingly being cast aside. 

Intending to visit this one, Yukiko could tell, after taking but a few steps onto the grounds, that someone was taking care of this location - or trying to; there were far too many things wrong with the grounds for someone to have been taking care of this already - perhaps they were trying to repair... 

It was at that moment, when Yukiko was lost in her thoughts and letting her eyes sweep over the grounds, that her eyes land upon Yoh. The Amagi heir blinks twice, her expression twisting into that of utter confusion for a moment. "Um... hello?" she calls, somewhat tentatively.




(((Yoh Yamagatani poses.)))<br>
After finally catching his breath, and taking some deep drinks of his cola, Yoh turns to look in the crate he carried. He took out the orchids he had picked out for the grounds. picking up two, both in one hand, they looked beautiful. They were a vivid blue on the edge, and slowly turned dark purple in the center. They seemed to match the new tile mosaics he put up to replace the old ones there.

And then, Yoh heard something he didn't expect: a voice. A woman's voice at that. Out so late? Huh, maybe she was lost. "Hello there!" Yoh said as he waved to the person after setting down one of the orchid plants on the ground. He couldn't quite see her well from his position though. "I'm over here. Are you lost?" he asks in a kind manner. Though, now that he thinks of it, the voice sounded... vaguely familiar. Had he met this girl before somewhere? He couldn't quite recall. Well, he would probably find out here in a second.



(((Yukiko Amagi poses.)))<br>
There was something familiar about Yoh, as well. But Yukiko was so head-in-the-cloudsy a lot of times, that most names and faces were a blur of sorts to her. Definitely not good behavior for a future innkeeper. Beyond a little spike of confusion on her features, Yukiko's confusion melts away into a more neutral expression, the girl bringing up a hand to brush a lock of her dark hair over her shoulder. 

"Ah... no, I'm not quite lost at all. Are you lost?" she asks, a flutter of thought in the form of a briefly furrowed brow showing that she thought that was a strange thing to ask, as well.



(((Yoh Yamagatani poses.)))<br>
Getting a better look at the approaching girl, Yoh knew he had seen her somewhere. Where it was, and who she was for that matter he had forgotten. It usually takes a few encounters for a name to stick in his case. Well, at least she looked friendly enough. At least it wasn't that goth girl, Chidori. Despite the neat outfit, she scared the hell out of him.

Yoh tilts his head slightly, getting a better look at her. Well, at least she wasn't lost. Though he would have gladly help. Her question in return made him chuckle for a moment. "Who, me? Naw, I am working on this place, trying to fix it up." Yoh lets out a sigh. "A lot more to go though." After a moment, he speaks up once more. "Have I... met you somewhere before? Pardon me for bringing it up, you just look familiar."



(((Yukiko Amagi poses.)))<br>
"Yeah - you look kinda familiar, as well," Yukiko says, with a bit of a frown. She had never met Chidori, so there was no comment on certain goth girls. Yukiko's outfit was positively normal, however - crimson sweater, long dark skirt - stockings and high boots for snow. Topped off with a lavender scarf about her neck, with the fringes of it decorated with white flowers.

Tilting her head to one side as he does the same, Yukiko inclines her head, once. "But I couldn't tell you where. I do not come to Lunarvale often," she says, glancing about the shrine before her eyes return towards Yoh, "...do you... um... follow Shinto, or is this like a community project for you?"



(((Yoh Yamagatani poses.)))<br>
Huh, it seemed like she recognized him too. Well, must have happened somewhere, though lost to time. Well, best to start new then. "Well, nice to meet you. I am Yoh Yamagatani, from St. Hermelin." He waits for her second comment to finish before speaking up again. "I usually only stay around Lunarvale, or venture to Inaba. Maybe it was at Inaba?" He had an inclination to say that, possibly something surfacing about where they met.

"Oh, easy. It is a community project I decided to undertake. I needed something to do that was constructive in my spare time, rather than waste it. This will be rewarding either way one looks at it, most of all spiritually. I use this time to think." Of course, not that he minded the occasional person that found their way in out of curiosity. He liked to interact with people, and make friends as well, as since he switched schools, he lost all his friends. Making new ones would help!



(((Yukiko Amagi poses.)))<br>
"I spend most of my time in Inaba..." Yukiko says, her voice trailing off a bit, then, as to explain further, "My family owns the Inn out there. The Amagi Inn?" she questions, watching his expression for any sign of recognition. Usually, people knew of the Inn. Although, out here in Lunarvale? Definitely less likely. 

Nodding her head along with the rest of what he says, Yukiko purses her lips in thought, "Well, um... I am certain that someone will appreciate it. It really is a shame, with shrines such as these falling into disrepair, all throughout the country..." Yukiko says with a sigh, turning her eyes up towards the arches of the shrine.



(((Yoh Yamagatani poses.)))<br>
Yoh thought for a moment as he took a drink from the cola he had. Maybe he had mt her in Inaba? He couldn't remember... Hm. The Amagi Inn? He stayed there once on a vacation to a festival in the area when he was younger. "Oh really? Your family owns that Inn? Neat! I stayed there once before. It was really nice. I think I actually passed by there not too long ago, maybe a few days back.

The boy looked back towards the donation box platform as Yukiko talked about the shrine. It was a shame that it has become what it is now. "Well..." he started up, looking at the orchid plant in his hand as he lifted the flower to his eye level. "Hopefully fixing it will bring it to its former glory. It doesn't deserve to fall apart. It may be ignored now for the most part, but in the past I am sure it helped many people." Of course, inside he hoped it could still help anyone willing to come to it. Even if it was just one person, it would have made this a success to him.



(((Yukiko Amagi poses.)))<br>
"It is one of the few traditional inns left in all of Japan - and one of the rare ones that have a hot springs attached," Yukiko says with a bit of practiced pleasantness to her tone - it may sound as though she was reading off of a brochure. 

Listening to what he says with a certain interest in her expression, Yukiko nods, stepping towards the far side of the shrine from him, to look over the handiwork more clearly. "Yet you do not practice Shinto? I cannot imagine many do in Lunarvale - like many of the old things, it seems that Shinto itself is dying..." Yukiko says, lifting a hand to rest against the wood of the shrine almost affectionately.



(((Yoh Yamagatani poses.)))<br>
Yoh listens to what sounds like an advertisement from the girl. Not that he minded, it was as good as it sounded, remembering the visit well. "I should stop by again sometime to stay there. It was affordable and well worth it." Well, it wasn't cheap to him, but was worth every Yen spent. Why insult a family member / co owner of her own business? That would be messed up.

The boy nods rapidly to the mentioning further of Shinto. "Oh, well I am not an active believer, but if I do go to or get taken to a shrine, I do participate in purification. I use the time inside to meditate, rather than pray. It doesn't provide a great moment to reflect on past actions." Though, inside he did want to believe in it. He was one of probably many that were unsure on their beliefs in a spiritual or religious way. Well, hopefully what he said wouldn't insult her if she was indeed a believer.



(((Shiori Hibiki poses.))<br>
Shiori trudged through the streets of Lunarvale. She didn't want to stay in Port Island for the day, and she had picked the trains at Okina more or less at random, thus ending up here again.

What had the reports said? Pay attention to where you're going, or you'll end up in Mikage-cho again. It sounded like some sort of bogeyman warning for bad children, but Shiori knew that it was very real. Still, as long as she was careful...

On a whim, she decided to pay a visit to... where was it again? The shrine with no name that Yoh had mentioned as his project. Shiori had no idea where it was, of course... No, she /did/ know where it was. But how? She had never been here before... had she? And why did she only remember about this shrine now, when she was here in Lunarvale?

Was this yet another example of reality... cracking, as everyone was saying? Memories, and echoes of knowledge from other worlds, intruding onto this one...

Shiori walked towards the shrine proper, looking weary, sounding tired, and smelling distinctly of soap. In fact, her face looked slightly redder than usual between her scarf and her woolen hat, as though she had spent some time scrubbing. She could hear voices in conversation, and she squinted at the two people already there. One was... Yoh, definitely Yoh. The other one... oh yes, Yukiko from the KDA. What were they doing here? Was Yukiko helping Yoh with his project in refurbishing the shrine?

Maybe Shiori could help out. She certainly needed something to take her mind off recent events.

"Um, hallo," she called out, waving politely. "Er... I'm not interrupting anything, am I?"



(((Yukiko Amagi poses.)))<br>
And it wasn't cheap to most. Native Inabans had a discount usually, especially at quiet times of the year, and there was a certain plan to just get into the springs. The Inn couldn't usually afford affordability, however, when it was pretty much the only thing keeping Inaba from becoming a satellite of SEBEC or Junes. 

If Yukiko was insulted, she did not look it, the girl nodding her head, "I am not sure what to believe myself - I like to fill out ema at the shrine in Inaba, but... that one is in far worse shape than this one," she says. Dressed in her crimson sweater, lavender scarf, long skirt and boots, Yukiko brings up a hand to brush through her hair. 

The voice from behind causes Yukiko to jump a bit, the girl glancing over her shoulder towards Shiori. "Ah, Hibiki-san," Yukiko says with a smile, "No, no - I was just speaking to this guy here that I probably have met and forgotten... how are you?" she asks.



(((Yoh Yamagatani poses.)))<br>
Yoh listens politely to the girl, studying the vivid cerulean to violet orchids in his hand, and sticking out of the nearby crate. As he looked over the plant, he couldn't help but agree. "Yeah, hopefully that one will be restored as well," he said as he recalled how bad off it was when he visited. He did get the charm he wore with his other necklace there though, and was quite a nice buy. He wondered if the cash he spent on it really was used to better the shrine.

As he heard another voice behind Yukiko, he peered around the girl, to see Shiori. What brought her out here this late? Maybe avoiding Port Island's danger? He had no clue. "Hibiki-san! Good to see you! I am here fixing the shrine, chatting with um..." He still couldn't remember her name, though let out a few laughs as he heard what she said; basically the same thing. He held a hand out to the girl, as if to give a handshake. "I am Yoh Yamagatani. Nice to meet you, again. I think!" he says cheerfully.

As he does this, he looks toward Shiori again. "What brings you all the way out here this late?" Naturally Yoh was a night owl, but can't help himself but show concern for others, even if they were the same way.



(((Shiori Hibiki poses.))<br>
Shiori smiled at Yukiko. "I'm fine, thank you, Amagi-san," she said, and discovered with some surprise that this was in fact true. She wasn't dead, she still had all her limbs attached and working, and she wasn't in any actual trouble with anyone at the moment. "I, er, I'm acquainted with Yamagatani-san," she assured Yukiko. "We've met a few times." A nod at Yoh. "I just dropped by because I was curious about his, er, project."

She looked around the shrine. As always, the butterflies were flocking...

(... "as always"?...)

... and the masks that arrayed the place were still incredibly creepy. But then Shiori wasn't much for religion, in the cosmopolitan way of youngsters in general. She was vaguely aware that there was probably some kind of symbolic significance to everything here, but explanations had always seemed rambling and hoary. Shiori had donated a small fortune by now to the Naganaki Shrine in Port Island, for luck in her academics, but she didn't actually /know/ anything about Shinto apart from whatever was in popular culture.

"... um," she said weakly, turning herself around to survey the worn-out structures. "How... how's it coming along, Yamagatani-san?"



(((Yukiko Amagi poses.)))<br>
Ah, the 'love charms'. Yukiko had seen a fair few of those lately, and had absolutely no clue what they were about. Many boys at Yasogami High wore them with a confidence as they presented her with gifts or whatever else that she either ignored, or just denied outright. The Amagi Challenge still had no victor, even with the help of the supernatural in the form of charms. 

"Oh? Yamagatani-san?" Yukiko says, glancing over her shoulder again towards Yoh. "Now I have a name, I suppose, to go with the face!" she enthuses. A name she will probably space out and forget, but that's Yukiko.



(((Yoh Yamagatani poses.)))<br>
As Yoh glanced between the two, he surmised that they must have met before. He lowered the orchids from his view to pay attention to his visitors. It would be terribly rude to just stare at flowers, even though they were quite pretty. "Hm?" he says to Shiori, despite him actually hearing what she said. It was more of a reflex than anything. "Oh, it is coming along great, actually. I have replaced the flagpoles and flags, polished the masks, re tiled and grouted the tiles all over the walkways, fixed the sign... Well..." Yoh looks around for a moment more. "That is about it so far.

He was about to work on the garden soon too, but he hasn't even started yet, so he figured it wasn't worth mentioning. The boy looks back to Yukiko. "Yeah! That's me!" He presents a sincere smile to the girl when she says the line afterward. But if she forgot, he would hold no grudge. He tended to forget names until meeting a few times.



(((Shiori Hibiki poses.))<br>
Shiori had a good memory for names, and a good memory for faces. She just had trouble putting the two together on occasion.

She shook her head at the sheer amount of work that still apparently needed to be done, even after all of Yoh's efforts. "It's a little sad that a place like this has been abandoned," she said. "And... um. It looks like nobody's been looking after it for quite some time." A slow blink. "You're doing a great job, Yamagatani-san. Especially if-"

Shiori paused, as a thought struck her. "Actually, whom is this shrine dedicated to?" she wondered, looking back and forth between Yukiko and Yoh. "Maybe if there's something to bring people here, you'll have more help taking care of the shrine." Shiori would certainly not let the Naganaki Shrine fall into disrepair, for example; not when it still had any effect, no matter how illogical or coincidental, on her grades.



(((Yukiko Amagi poses.)))<br>
The smile that the boy treats her with does draw Yukiko's attention his way, but the Amagi heir does not return it, instead staring in his direction for a few long moments, before her eyes slip back towards Shiori. "Indeed," she agrees with Shiori. "I feel as though Yamagatani-san is doing well with restoring this shrine..." she says, her voice trailing off as she purses her lips. "Places like this are being abandoned all over Japan - as the old monks die, well... I do not feel that there are enough younger monks to take their place," she says. "Well, um... at least that is what my father says," she adds somewhat sheepishly. 

Shiori's idea does draw a curl of Yukiko's eyebrow, the Amagi heir looking back towards Yoh soon afterward. "It would be something to do with all these... um... masks, right?"



(((Yoh Yamagatani poses.)))<br>
As the two speak, Yoh nods slowly in their general direction. It was true. The people responsible had long vanished. "Yeah. I tried to contact the city department that regarded this place. They gave me information on where the caretaker and priest used to reside, but their homes were just as run down as this place was, unfortunately. As if they too, were abandoned."

After a few moments of looking at Shiori and Yukiko, that strange itching feeling plagued his mind. Reflex kicked in and he scratched the back of his head rather fiercely, before speaking up. "Well, to be honest, I am not sure who this shrine represents. The city did not know either. It was odd to hear that from them." As Yukiko mentioned the theory, he looked about the masks lining the wall. "You are probably right... Amagi-san, I take it? Yeah, must be a kami of some sort." Yoh's eyes still on a mask nearby, and he takes it off the wall. The mask in particular is a rather stoic looking mask. It only has eyeholes. No nose, no mouth. "This one is the strangest among them I must say. it looks nothing like the others." As he holds it up to his face, looking out of the eye slits, he laughs. "This mask reminds me of a creepy dream I had about a week ago. A guy was wearing a mask like this. Was creepy as all get-out."

Of course, why he suddenly remembered the dream after forgetting it is beyond his comprehension.



(((Shiori Hibiki poses.))<br>
Shiori blinked, twice, quite slowly.

"That does sound like a strange dream," she agreed, glancing up at the butterflies. Poor Shiori, and her inability to hide her body language. But she knew that Yoh had the Potential now, and he <i>had</i> to have gotten it somehow; an encounter with Philemon would be within the realms of possibility.

Should she tell Yoh to forget all about it, and hope he stayed out of the world of Personas and Shadows? Or should she spill the beans entirely, right here and now? A desperate glance at Yukiko: please help.

"I wonder what sort of kami concerns itself with masks," she found herself saying. "Or why it would have a shrine built for it. I suppose we won't know now, with the original caretakers of this shrine, er, missing."

Shiori shuddered slightly, and turned away from the masks. They weren't all that bad, just... creepy.

"If I might ask, why did you choose to restore this shrine, Yamagatani-san?" she wondered, and then added hurriedly: "Not that it isn't a <i>good</i> thing you're doing. I'm just, er, curious."



(((Yukiko Amagi poses.)))<br>
Yukiko listens to Yoh's explanation with a little nod of her head, "Always sad to hear - which leaves the caretaking of the shrine to the community - and very few communities, it seems, wish to help out a place like this," Yukiko says, "Which makes what you are doing all the more important." 

The resonance, if indeed that was what Yoh was feeling, from Yukiko would be a sense of warmth, like the heat of a fire felt through a muffler. Philemon was not someone Yukiko was familiar with - she had heard of this Persona through dream thing before, of course. The KDA wasn't SEES, but that did not mean they were all country bumpkins! 

But still, Shiori's silent plea for help was answered with a confused look, Yukiko's lips pursing somewhat. "Well, one concerned with deception, I suppose. Or just one who wishes to be more mysterious?" Yukiko says to Shiori, with a shrug of her shoulders.



(((Yoh Yamagatani poses.)))<br>
Yoh peers through the mask a tad bit longer before returning it to its rightful place on the wall. It even troubled him at how fast and clearly he recalled that dream. Must have been the mask was so familiar that it jogged his memory. "Yeah, I hope I am doing the right thing." The boy turns to Shiori for a moment. "Well..." he thought about it for a moment, it was a silly reason, but a reason nonetheless. "I was looking for a large project to get into, but I couldn't find anything, until I saw the shrine, then it just kinda, well, called out to me, if that doesn't sound too crazy."

As the two talked about who the shrine represented, Yoh pondered on theories a moment before speaking up, a hand stroking his chin like some sort of brooding scientist. "It could be deception, trickery, or maybe it represents something bigger than itself? I have no idea. And even though I do not know what kami it is, I won't change the shrine in any major way. Best to leave it as is as I fix it, and maybe the answers will come in due time."



(((Shiori Hibiki poses.))<br>
A mysterious god, forgotten and unknown, and now Yoh was cleaning up its shrine. Shiori would not be so worried about this if she hadn't known of actual gods, or at least god-like beings, whose existence were Kirijo-proven. It tended to concentrate the mind on the question of whether this particular kami was benevolent.

"You have a point, Amagi-san," she said. "And if nobody can remember who the kami of this shrine is, then it would probably have remained abandoned, if Yamagatani-san hadn't discovered it." A smile at Yoh. "A mysterious kami would be a little hard to direct prayers to."

Shiori bowed politely to Yukiko and Yoh. "It's been a pleasure to meet you two again, Amagi-san, Yamagatani-san," she said. "I'll probably drop by this shrine when I can, now that I know how to find it. Maybe I can help out every now and then," she offered. "Until then..."



(((Yoh Yamagatani poses.)))<br>
Yoh bows to them both as well. "I should probably head home myself. It is quite late. Hope to see you both again sometime!" As he speaks with a cheerful tone, he wipes his face with a hand towel, wishes the two good fortune, and takes his leave.

It was nice to have visitors at the shrine already. It made him feel... wanted. He was glad he met people that took time out of their schedule to see him. As he headed home, he had a warm smile on his face.
[[Category: Logs]]