[They've only been going into Tartarus for a few weeks, but Minato's already found himself swapping weapons like he swaps Personas. Sometimes, their team just requires a different weapon type than what they've got handy, and then it's up to him to fill the gap, right?
Isn't that what being the field leader means?
... Still, just because he can pick up a weapon and be relatively proficient with it in a few battles with Shadows doesn't mean his technique is any good, and in particular, his boxing technique is... rough. It's really a lot closer to just street fighting than any sort of proper boxing form.
They get back from Tartarus as late as ever, and Minato yawns as he shuffles into the kitchen to get a glass of water before turning in, still a little too wired from the battles despite his sleepy disposition to fall asleep just yet.
Sure would be handy if Minato had a senpai who had never lost a boxing match who could give him some pointers, wouldn't it...?]
... Okay, maybe that's a little harsh but Minato has clearly accepted his lot as field leader by swapping weapons, not only personas, and that's an admirable thing that he's been doing. Akihiko can't really find fault in that. He uses swords and spears and bows and boxing gloves and all sorts of things.
The thing is, when it comes to his boxing, his form is completely garbage and Akihiko finds himself pained whenever he watches it — distracting himself completely from the fight as his focus shifts onto Minato.
Tonight though, enough is enough, and he makes a decision to talk to Minato about it when he gets a chance. He doesn't expect to get the chance so soon though, walking into the kitchen and spotting Minato when he was here for a late night protein bar.
But that's only a sign to get this conversation out of the way so — ]
[Minato, perfectly oblivious and not at all aware of the anguish he has been causing his senpai, just blinks at Akihiko sleepily over his glass of water.
[ Akihiko is grabbing the protein bar he came in here for initially and unwrapping it, mostly to be able to do something with his hands if he's honest. ]
Just... about fighting in Tartarus. Are you doing okay? I know this all must be pretty new for you.
[ Where's the bravery, Akihiko? He was so determined to confront Minato about his stance and now he's waffling over if he should say something.
But then he remembers Minato punching one of the Shadows today and how it looked like he might trip over himself as he did it. It took all of Akihiko not to interject then, so really, he has to get over himself. ]
You've, uh, taken up quite a few weapons to use too. I thought you were just going to stick with the sword.
[ Akihiko nods and bites into his protein bar, chewing slowly as he tries to think of how to offer what he wants to offer. It should be easy, Minato's left him quite an opening after all. ]
... If you're going to use the brass knuckles, do you want me to teach you a bit about boxing? It could help improve your stance and help you feel more comfortable using them.
[ "It could" he says. IT WOULD. IT WILL. PLEASE LET HIM HELP YOU. ]
[ See, there was a way to be subtle. Akihiko just had to... figure it out. And now Minato is accepting his help without feeling offended. Go, Akihiko! ]
Busy, huh? [ That kind of amuses him. He is pretty busy but — ] If it's for you, I'm happy to make some time. I really want us all to be at our best, and that definitely includes our leader.
["If it's for you"... oh no. That does something to his insides, that's for sure. It's... it still feels so new for someone to say something like that to him and to mean it. He's as calm as ever, but he does look a little shy, and maybe a little touched.]
Oh... um, thanks. Then I'll... be counting on you, senpai.
[ Akihiko doesn't even realize how he's made Minato feel with that one phrase. It just seems natural to him — Minato is his kouhai and he wants to be there for him, of course. Plus, his form is tragic. ]
When are you free this week? We can swing by the gym and just go through the basics.
[Being a nice senpai just comes naturally to Akihiko clearly--anyway, Minato isn't about to bring it up, as nice as it was to hear.
More important...! His availability. This is early game, but Minato's schedule has already ended up a mess. There are Social Links, and handling things for the team, and his states--but still, this is Akihiko, so...
... He feels like he should make time and learn as much as possible.]
[ Minato is definitely the busiest of his juniors, Akihiko knows. So, between the both of them they definitely have some scheduling issues to figure out.
Still, Akihiko thinks about it and Monday... Monday could work, yeah. ]
I have a few things to take care of after school but it should be pretty quick. Then we can head to the gym. How does that sound?
BUT ANYWAY. That Monday, Akihiko has a few things to take care of after school, mostly just making sure the boxing team is settled. He doesn't have practice with them until Tuesday but being the captain, there's things he's needed for every day of the week.
Once that's all squared away, he texts Minato to meet him in front of the school and that's where Minato will find him waiting. There's a few girls in front of him, asking about his plans and other things but he's mostly ignoring them since they're giving him a headache. When he spots Minato, he perks up and gives a wave, moving past the girls to approach his kouhai. ]
[Akihiko's fan club... Minato just kind of blinks at them as they giggle and whisper behind their hands, and then shakes his head a bit to himself. He can kind of see why Akihiko has one, honestly. His senpai is pretty cool...
... anyway.]
It was fine. Pretty average, honestly. [Slept through most of it, couldn't say what he learned in math class.]
Were you able to get all of your errands done and everything?
[ Akihiko would be the first to deny he's pretty anything, especially cool. All he wants to be is strong! That's it! And these girls don't get it so they're not worth his time, of course.
You know who is worth his time? Minato. And that's why he's listening attentively to what he says. If he knew he slept through class though, Minato would absolutely be getting a scolding. Thank goodness Akihiko doesn't know. ]
Yeah. Just some prep for practice tomorrow with the boxing team. We've been training pretty hard for our next meet.
[ He'll beckon for Minato to follow him as well, starting to lead them towards the front gates of the school. ]
[And, of course, he follows obediently, hands tucked into his pockets casually as he does. His charm is not yet high enough to attract any of the fangirls' attention. He has to drink more coffee first.
Regardless...!!]
It feels like you're always training pretty hard, senpai.
[ Drink your coffee, Minato. And then maybe you can take some of the fangirls off his hands. As it is, they definitely break into whispers when Akihiko walks off with Minato, shooting him some glares in the process. Sorry............
Akihiko nods at the assessment though, feeling proud of that fact over anything else. ]
I want to be prepared for anything, be it Shadows or anything else. The stronger I get, the better.
And look... don't worry about it. If this was Shinji, Akihiko would say something in response like "I'll take it easy when I'm dead" but he doesn't think Minato would appreciate that sentiment as much. ]
I... am. Here and there, when I need to. I know the importance of rest between bouts.
[ Their social link is just not high enough yet. They'll get there, they'll get there. ]
Which I'm grateful for. I've never felt this strong before in my life, I'm really reaching new limits the more we fight the Shadows and I really can't thank you enough for it.
[ He's so PUMPED. He's so STRONG. He's getting STRONGER. It's fucking GREAT. ]
[ There's a noise of disagreement there from Akihiko. ]
You're our field leader, aren't you? You can take some credit there for the help you're giving me, I wouldn't be fighting this much if it weren't for you.
[ He says it very matter of factly. Minato should learn to accept his role in this, he thinks. ]
We'd be directionless without you. It's really nice to have someone so reliable to rely upon, even if you are my junior.
[ Akihiko glances sidelong at Minato when he senses his quiet and can't help but smile slightly at his thanks. It has Akihiko reaching out to pat his head genially before pulling his hand back and looking alert again. ]
Yeah, we're almost there too. Just another block or so, I didn't want to be too far from the school when I was picking a gym.
Minato can't remember the last time someone patted him on the head like that, which is why, even though it was brief and simple, Minato can't help but stare at Akihiko under slightly mussed bangs, eyes wide and cheeks slightly red.]
[ Akihiko truly doesn't notice or realize the impact of his motion. It just seemed right, to pat Minato's head and show his care for him in that way. Just seemed natural, really. And thankfully, Minato's own embarrassment lasts very briefly so Akihiko isn't able to catch on either.
At his words though, Akihiko laughs. People, jealous of Minato?? Why would they ever be jealous! (Akihiko really is oblivious.) ]
They won't be jealous when they realize just how hard I'm going to work you. We're not leaving the gym until I approve of your stance, and I can be pretty critical about these type of things.
[ Oh... right, dinner. Akihiko seems to consider this a little, debating whether or not to let Minato free at dinner time or not. Then again, if he makes him skip a meal, it'll be bad for his routine and thus bad for learning how to box properly.
[HE IS SO BENEVOLENT. Minato was afraid for a moment as the silence dragged on that Akihiko was going to suggest they work out straight through dinner. And Minato would've done it because he's a doormat, but he would have been very sad about it.
But!
It's fine!
He has a benevolent senpai.
Also now he's distracted by thoughts of dinner.]
Should we grab dinner at the strip mall after this?
[ Focus! Akihiko shakes his head free of ramen as well and nods when Minato says they need to start. They've approached the front door of the gym now and Akihiko just grins, beckoning for Minato to follow him. ]
First, we get in gym clothes. I hope you brought yours but I have a spare if you need.
[ He'll guide Minato to the front desk, checking him in as a visitor before leading him towards the locker room. He's clearly done this a million times with the ease he does it and the way some of the regulars give him a wave. ]
And he sure is serious about it!! He's going to become the strongest.
He'll lead Minato to the locker room and when they reach a row of empty lockers, he'll drop his bag down and start pulling off his clothes to change. ]
Mostly, if not that every other day. It's all about routine, after all.
[ Akihiko just shrugs because for him, it's just what he needs to do. It makes sense. It wouldn't be right if he wasn't going to the gym, wasn't training every day. He needs to do it.
So, while he changes, he explains that much. ]
I don't expect anyone else to be held to the same standards I hold for myself. You see dedication, I see purpose. I have to do this.
[ Because he has to be stronger. ]
And you're not going to slow me down. I invited you, remember?
[ Yes, please don't harsh the training vibe with some armchair psychoanalysis. That would be bad. ]
Yup! Feel free to grab any of the lockers, I just usually use this one.
[ Akihiko gestures to the locker he's been changing in front of. He's already shirtless and is digging into his bag to find his gym pants and shirt. He's going to continue changing now, shucking his pants and swapping for his gym clothes. ]
[Senpai is so comfy with all of this... well, Minato's on a sports team, so it's not that strange for him either. He'll pick a locker as well, digging out his own gym clothes so he can start getting changed.
Once he's all swapped over properly, he moves back over to Akira, head tilting in curiosity.]
So the third year gym uniforms are exactly the same, huh... [why would they have changed, Minato]
[There's a danger in Tartarus runs becoming mundane and routine.
The danger takes the form of approaching the battle against Shadows with too much casualness, and losing that sharp edge that has carried SEES through so many battles. They've been very successful lately, with a goal to carry them forward and so many wins beneath their belts.
Fly too close to the sun, and it was only a matter of time before they got a little singed.
There's a dangerous Shadow, but that isn't unusual, and they take them on all the time. Minato surveys his team (Akihiko, Ken, Yukari) and nods, and lunges forward to take it on.
And then the battle goes absolutely pear-shaped. The Shadow scores a lucky critical on Ken, knocking him to the ground, and immediately spins to shoot a Ziodyne at Yukari, who crumples to the ground with a startled shriek. The Shadow moves again before any of them can do anything at all, charging up for the next attack.
Minato--perhaps its weariness, perhaps it's just that he's grown so, so attached to his teammates--makes the wrong decision. He chooses to heal Ken and Yukari, rather than bracing himself for the next attack.
When the Shadow takes Minato down, he tastes blood, and blackness encroaches on the edges of his vision. He's never been this wounded, he thinks distantly, almost dreamily. His ability to swap Personas has always allowed him to try to cover his weaknesses while keeping SEES upright and fighting.
Everything works out just fine. Akihiko, spurred on by his determination to protect his team, his family, whips out a Theurgy and takes the Shadow down. Yukari runs to Minato's side, healing him up hastily, Evoker pressed to her forehead.
They're all shaken, though, and the next time they find a teleporter, they return to the entrance and then start to make the tired, somewhat defeated trudge to the dorm.
Minato trails behind in the back, head down, hands shoved deeply into his pockets.w]
[ Minato got hurt. Minato got hurt in a real bad way, the type of way where if they didn't have healing spells, it would've meant a hospital trip and trying to answer questions in a way they couldn't. Usually things are good. They're strong as a team and Minato is tactical and savvy in his choices of persona. Akihiko can usually trust him to cover the team perfectly as a result.
Tonight, he made a mistake. Just one mistake and it got him hurt. This wouldn't be such a bad thing, Akihiko can't hold it against him — he knows this, logically. He knows this.
Yet, he can't stop shaking for some reason. He can't stop thinking of what it looked like, everyone down, blood trickling from Minato's mouth, the idea of being trapped in Tartarus with three unconscious friends and no idea what to do next. It all made his blood boil until he found himself bringing down lightning aggressively onto the Shadow and frying it to a crisp.
His eyes are fixed on Minato's back as they make their way back to the dorm. Mitsuru tries to talk to him at some point but she can tell he's not paying attention to her and gives up. He feels ill, like he's going to vomit, and he's thinking of what he would do then if Minato — no. No, he can't have that thought.
When they get back to the dorm, everyone automatically heads for their own rooms and it's on the second floor landing, when he sees Ken and Junpei disappear into their rooms that he pauses, catching Minato's wrist in his hand and keeps him from heading to his room. ]
[Minato was absolutely going to stumble into his room, peel off his bloody clothes, and pass out. That was his plan too, so he begins to trail after Junpei and Ken when Akihiko's hand at his wrist stops him.
He blinks, tired enough that it takes him a moment to piece it together. Oh. Akihiko's hand. Right. Okay.
And that's... Akihiko looking pretty serious.]
Senpai...?
[Well, if they need to talk, they need to talk! He's not going to resist wherever Akihiko tugs him.]
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realpolitik2023-07-06 07:31 pm
boxing
Isn't that what being the field leader means?
... Still, just because he can pick up a weapon and be relatively proficient with it in a few battles with Shadows doesn't mean his technique is any good, and in particular, his boxing technique is... rough. It's really a lot closer to just street fighting than any sort of proper boxing form.
They get back from Tartarus as late as ever, and Minato yawns as he shuffles into the kitchen to get a glass of water before turning in, still a little too wired from the battles despite his sleepy disposition to fall asleep just yet.
Sure would be handy if Minato had a senpai who had never lost a boxing match who could give him some pointers, wouldn't it...?]
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... Okay, maybe that's a little harsh but Minato has clearly accepted his lot as field leader by swapping weapons, not only personas, and that's an admirable thing that he's been doing. Akihiko can't really find fault in that. He uses swords and spears and bows and boxing gloves and all sorts of things.
The thing is, when it comes to his boxing, his form is completely garbage and Akihiko finds himself pained whenever he watches it — distracting himself completely from the fight as his focus shifts onto Minato.
Tonight though, enough is enough, and he makes a decision to talk to Minato about it when he gets a chance. He doesn't expect to get the chance so soon though, walking into the kitchen and spotting Minato when he was here for a late night protein bar.
But that's only a sign to get this conversation out of the way so — ]
Hey, Minato. Got a minute?
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...?]
Hm...? Yeah, I do. What's up?
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Just... about fighting in Tartarus. Are you doing okay? I know this all must be pretty new for you.
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[Oh Akihiko, you're trying so hard. But Minato is still perfectly clueless where this is going.]
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But then he remembers Minato punching one of the Shadows today and how it looked like he might trip over himself as he did it. It took all of Akihiko not to interject then, so really, he has to get over himself. ]
You've, uh, taken up quite a few weapons to use too. I thought you were just going to stick with the sword.
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[Minato sets the glass aside, rubbing the back of his neck a little sheepishly.]
Since we found more brass knuckles, it felt like it'd be good to use them. Especially since they're better than the sword I was using.
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... If you're going to use the brass knuckles, do you want me to teach you a bit about boxing? It could help improve your stance and help you feel more comfortable using them.
[ "It could" he says. IT WOULD. IT WILL. PLEASE LET HIM HELP YOU. ]
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Really...? You don't mind?
[Minato rubs the back of his neck, expression rueful and a little embarrassed.]
I didn't want to ask since I thought you might be busy, but... [IT'D BE GREAT.]
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Busy, huh? [ That kind of amuses him. He is pretty busy but — ] If it's for you, I'm happy to make some time. I really want us all to be at our best, and that definitely includes our leader.
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Oh... um, thanks. Then I'll... be counting on you, senpai.
When do you want to start?
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When are you free this week? We can swing by the gym and just go through the basics.
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More important...! His availability. This is early game, but Minato's schedule has already ended up a mess. There are Social Links, and handling things for the team, and his states--but still, this is Akihiko, so...
... He feels like he should make time and learn as much as possible.]
Monday after school...? If that works for you.
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Still, Akihiko thinks about it and Monday... Monday could work, yeah. ]
I have a few things to take care of after school but it should be pretty quick. Then we can head to the gym. How does that sound?
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So he just nods easily, offering Akihiko a very linefaced thumbs up.]
Sounds good to me. I'll meet you at the school gate after school then.
[hit me with a timeskip, I'm gonna make you do it.]
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BUT ANYWAY. That Monday, Akihiko has a few things to take care of after school, mostly just making sure the boxing team is settled. He doesn't have practice with them until Tuesday but being the captain, there's things he's needed for every day of the week.
Once that's all squared away, he texts Minato to meet him in front of the school and that's where Minato will find him waiting. There's a few girls in front of him, asking about his plans and other things but he's mostly ignoring them since they're giving him a headache. When he spots Minato, he perks up and gives a wave, moving past the girls to approach his kouhai. ]
Hey, Minato. Good to see you. How was class?
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... anyway.]
It was fine. Pretty average, honestly. [Slept through most of it, couldn't say what he learned in math class.]
Were you able to get all of your errands done and everything?
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You know who is worth his time? Minato. And that's why he's listening attentively to what he says. If he knew he slept through class though, Minato would absolutely be getting a scolding. Thank goodness Akihiko doesn't know. ]
Yeah. Just some prep for practice tomorrow with the boxing team. We've been training pretty hard for our next meet.
[ He'll beckon for Minato to follow him as well, starting to lead them towards the front gates of the school. ]
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Regardless...!!]
It feels like you're always training pretty hard, senpai.
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Akihiko nods at the assessment though, feeling proud of that fact over anything else. ]
I want to be prepared for anything, be it Shadows or anything else. The stronger I get, the better.
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Still, that's... a lot. Senpai that's a lot!]
I see... Still, that sounds like a lot of work. I hope you're taking it easy sometimes too, though.
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And look... don't worry about it. If this was Shinji, Akihiko would say something in response like "I'll take it easy when I'm dead" but he doesn't think Minato would appreciate that sentiment as much. ]
I... am. Here and there, when I need to. I know the importance of rest between bouts.
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Also that'd be so concerning... as it is, he looks a little skeptical, but not completely disbelieving.
He's doing his best, but he doesn't know Akihiko too well yet.
Things he needs to improve on, he's realizing...!]
... Okay. If you say so, then... I'm glad to hear that. I know we count on you a lot in Tartarus, so...
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Which I'm grateful for. I've never felt this strong before in my life, I'm really reaching new limits the more we fight the Shadows and I really can't thank you enough for it.
[ He's so PUMPED. He's so STRONG. He's getting STRONGER. It's fucking GREAT. ]
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You don't have to thank me for that.
[Minato just shakes his head at that, tucking his hands into his pockets casually as they walk.]
Everyone's getting stronger through their own efforts, right?
[Still, he's glad Akihiko is pumped about it.]
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You're our field leader, aren't you? You can take some credit there for the help you're giving me, I wouldn't be fighting this much if it weren't for you.
[ He says it very matter of factly. Minato should learn to accept his role in this, he thinks. ]
We'd be directionless without you. It's really nice to have someone so reliable to rely upon, even if you are my junior.
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Minato's quiet for a moment, a little overcome--and then he dips his head. He's not good at accepting credit or praise, but...
Softly:]
... Thanks, Senpai. I'll do my best to stay as reliable as I can.
This is... part of that, I guess. Learning how to use more weapons properly.
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Yeah, we're almost there too. Just another block or so, I didn't want to be too far from the school when I was picking a gym.
1/2
hello???
Hello?????
Minato can't remember the last time someone patted him on the head like that, which is why, even though it was brief and simple, Minato can't help but stare at Akihiko under slightly mussed bangs, eyes wide and cheeks slightly red.]
2/2
R-right. That makes sense. I'm ready to learn everything I can from you, senpai. Everyone's gonna be really jealous that I got to.
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At his words though, Akihiko laughs. People, jealous of Minato?? Why would they ever be jealous! (Akihiko really is oblivious.) ]
They won't be jealous when they realize just how hard I'm going to work you. We're not leaving the gym until I approve of your stance, and I can be pretty critical about these type of things.
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Also those words are a little... concerning... Minato might be a good leader, but he is still very lazy. Help.]
Ah...
[... Oh no.]
Unless it's time for dinner, right?
[RIGHT??]
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Alright, fine. ]
Okay, we'll stop at dinner, sure.
[ A sage nod here. He is so benevolent. ]
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But!
It's fine!
He has a benevolent senpai.
Also now he's distracted by thoughts of dinner.]
Should we grab dinner at the strip mall after this?
[Minato, training first, then dinner.]
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Except even Akihiko is weak to the thoughts of — ]
Hagakure?
[ Because listen, he is a teenage boy who loves ramen as much as the next teenage boy who loves ramen. He can't help himself!! ]
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That sounds perfect.
[Okay, Minato, now focus.]
... Guess that means we should get started, right? [... he has no idea where to start.]
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First, we get in gym clothes. I hope you brought yours but I have a spare if you need.
[ He'll guide Minato to the front desk, checking him in as a visitor before leading him towards the locker room. He's clearly done this a million times with the ease he does it and the way some of the regulars give him a wave. ]
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[thank goodness, how embarrassing it would be to have to wear senpai's spares....
But also, wow... Akihiko is really serious about his training, isn't he? Minato knew this, of course, but it's different to see it first hand.]
... Do you come here every day, senpai?
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And he sure is serious about it!! He's going to become the strongest.
He'll lead Minato to the locker room and when they reach a row of empty lockers, he'll drop his bag down and start pulling off his clothes to change. ]
Mostly, if not that every other day. It's all about routine, after all.
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[... Akihiko is so...]
You're so dedicated. [it makes him feel like such a slacker!!]
Are you sure me being here isn't going to slow you down or anything?
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So, while he changes, he explains that much. ]
I don't expect anyone else to be held to the same standards I hold for myself. You see dedication, I see purpose. I have to do this.
[ Because he has to be stronger. ]
And you're not going to slow me down. I invited you, remember?
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But he doesn't have the time to dig into that, not when they've got ~training~ to do.]
Mm, okay. Then... I'll just do my best to keep up.
[Yeah!!!]
I guess we should get changed and get started, right?
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Yup! Feel free to grab any of the lockers, I just usually use this one.
[ Akihiko gestures to the locker he's been changing in front of. He's already shirtless and is digging into his bag to find his gym pants and shirt. He's going to continue changing now, shucking his pants and swapping for his gym clothes. ]
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Once he's all swapped over properly, he moves back over to Akira, head tilting in curiosity.]
So the third year gym uniforms are exactly the same, huh... [why would they have changed, Minato]
danger
The danger takes the form of approaching the battle against Shadows with too much casualness, and losing that sharp edge that has carried SEES through so many battles. They've been very successful lately, with a goal to carry them forward and so many wins beneath their belts.
Fly too close to the sun, and it was only a matter of time before they got a little singed.
There's a dangerous Shadow, but that isn't unusual, and they take them on all the time. Minato surveys his team (Akihiko, Ken, Yukari) and nods, and lunges forward to take it on.
And then the battle goes absolutely pear-shaped. The Shadow scores a lucky critical on Ken, knocking him to the ground, and immediately spins to shoot a Ziodyne at Yukari, who crumples to the ground with a startled shriek. The Shadow moves again before any of them can do anything at all, charging up for the next attack.
Minato--perhaps its weariness, perhaps it's just that he's grown so, so attached to his teammates--makes the wrong decision. He chooses to heal Ken and Yukari, rather than bracing himself for the next attack.
When the Shadow takes Minato down, he tastes blood, and blackness encroaches on the edges of his vision. He's never been this wounded, he thinks distantly, almost dreamily. His ability to swap Personas has always allowed him to try to cover his weaknesses while keeping SEES upright and fighting.
Everything works out just fine. Akihiko, spurred on by his determination to protect his team, his family, whips out a Theurgy and takes the Shadow down. Yukari runs to Minato's side, healing him up hastily, Evoker pressed to her forehead.
They're all shaken, though, and the next time they find a teleporter, they return to the entrance and then start to make the tired, somewhat defeated trudge to the dorm.
Minato trails behind in the back, head down, hands shoved deeply into his pockets.w]
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Tonight, he made a mistake. Just one mistake and it got him hurt. This wouldn't be such a bad thing, Akihiko can't hold it against him — he knows this, logically. He knows this.
Yet, he can't stop shaking for some reason. He can't stop thinking of what it looked like, everyone down, blood trickling from Minato's mouth, the idea of being trapped in Tartarus with three unconscious friends and no idea what to do next. It all made his blood boil until he found himself bringing down lightning aggressively onto the Shadow and frying it to a crisp.
His eyes are fixed on Minato's back as they make their way back to the dorm. Mitsuru tries to talk to him at some point but she can tell he's not paying attention to her and gives up. He feels ill, like he's going to vomit, and he's thinking of what he would do then if Minato — no. No, he can't have that thought.
When they get back to the dorm, everyone automatically heads for their own rooms and it's on the second floor landing, when he sees Ken and Junpei disappear into their rooms that he pauses, catching Minato's wrist in his hand and keeps him from heading to his room. ]
We need to talk.
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He blinks, tired enough that it takes him a moment to piece it together. Oh. Akihiko's hand. Right. Okay.
And that's... Akihiko looking pretty serious.]
Senpai...?
[Well, if they need to talk, they need to talk! He's not going to resist wherever Akihiko tugs him.]