truthprevail

[truthprevail]

starter call. like this post if you would like a starter. multis please specify muse(s) you'd like something for. it'll most likely be something short.

[truthprevail]

The what now? Huh?

There's no doubt about the confusion that is evident on her face. Perhaps, it should've been evident as to what MItsuru was referring to given how perceptive Sae generally is. Yet, it's the sleep deprivation that causes her brain to buffer, struggling to process the information until it finally registers. Niichome. Then, it's a widened eye of recognition — the vices she indulged in, the band-aids she used as an attempt to salve the wound that penetrated beneath the skin. So that's the moniker they've given her.

Sounds like she's got some explaining to do... later. It's meant for Kotone's ears only... despite her shadow already confessed a lot in what she could only describe as crass. Maybe it's guilt that she feels — towards Kotone, towards those women she's used. In the past, the prosecutor never gave it a second thought — she's communicated her intent clearly, she's made it a point to never linger after she's felt a modicum of relief. To her, it was a vice akin to smoking a cigarette or inhaling the saccharine vapours of her vape pen... which she could really use right about now. But now? Her chest tightens ever so slightly, her stomach churns— sometimes, she was standoffish towards those women to the point of frigidity.

When she feels a light touch against her, Sae's instinct is to tense almost as if she wanted to jerk away. But then, it only takes a beat for her to recognize that it's Kotone. Always a source of comfort, always a source of warmth. A wry laugh escapes her lips at how ridiculous everything's been since Joker's interrogation. Slowly, she relaxes into the hand on top of her own.

❝ It'd be remiss of me to not point out the fact that she isn't the only person with that colour hair — in fact, it's rather common. I would know, seeing that I'm an expert in the subject matter apparently. ❞ The lawyer in her just had to quip, had to make a retort. ❝ But seeing that my shadow did bare it all in front of an audience, I'm in no position to deny it. That being said, going forward I will do whatever it takes to not only make amends but also create a better future. This is my vow. ❞

There's no obligations for her to promise the other people around her. In fact, realistically, she isn't even obligated to explain anything to them except for Kotone. Her eyes meet Yukari's, allowing a lingering stare in the face of the other's ire. She's faced worse before, a protective friend is hardly the problem here. Then, a knowing look at Mitsuru — the only one aside from those directly involved with the operation back at her palace that knows about Sae's involvement with helping Akira Kurusu escape certain death.

❝ And of course, I'd expect no less from all of you to hold me to my word. ❞ She smiles faintly. ❝ I know it's inconvenient for some of you to get here, so I can step out for a cigarette while all of you catch up. ❞

And also for her to clear her head.

Seeing the look on everyone's faces was magical. In a way this was a form of comeuppance against her beloved. Watching Sae's palm slowly fall down her face was something so hilarious she would have laughed if she could. Instead, she knows her family would be a fair conduit. Yukari moves slightly to the left, blocking out any way for the lawyer to escape. She was pinned. Of course, how could Kotone miss that amazing scowl on her face. The wild card makes a mental note to thank Yukari when she can.

Mitsuru moves forward, the smallest grin creeping up on her face as she looks at her swiftly beeping monitor. Kotone can only supplement the amusement the operatives were feeling, weakly waving the hand that once held the other's. She would push to make every second of amazingly worth it. The heiress gives a soft laugh, the stress from earlier melting away.

"Well, it seems we were misled. Instead of calling us verbally, she decided to use Kotone's heart monitor as a beacon," her eyebrow raises, her grin now plain to see. "I see you're trying to mark your territory. I can scarce believe the 'Menace of Niichome' is trying to settle down."

This was new information. With all her strength, she slowly turns her head towards the prosecutor in question. What 'Menace of Niichome' nonsense was happening? Was Sae secretly some yakuza agent? No! She knows someone with ties to them, but certainly not someone FROM the yakuza. Maybe that was why her shadow had a tattoo on her back? She had to ask about that. Maybe she was living an entire double life.

Alas, she is shut out from her thoughts when Yukari opens her mouth. Now this was going to be rich. It's almost as if there's an aura of vindication. In a way, it felt accepting but threatening. Girls like her were truly terrifying...

"That's right, Niijima-san. When we go out every so often we hear about the 'Menace of Niichome'. Soooo many women heartbroken because of a grey-haired woman. You know what the funny part is?"

Oh my god. Was she going to -

"They all had red or reaaaaally light brown hair. Aigis, do we know anyone with that kind of hair?"

"Kotone."

"Exaaaaaaaactly."

Of course, she already knew this! Sae's shadow laid it all bare. Yet, with the others ganging up on her, she can't help but give a soft laugh. She's really been living under a rock for all these years if she wasn't even able to figure out who the rumoured menace was. If they were dogging on Sae, maybe she should join in on the acttion.

"Aigis... what... did... her... shadow say again?" Kotone pipes up, her voice still rough from the lack of use. "Only... summary."

"Well, I do remember how she was saying how she wanted you to be her 'concubine'. Also, she was basically obsessed with you for all these years too. Aaaaalso, her shadow was hitting on you," the android merely shrugs, a fake smile shone straight towards the Niijima.

The reply elicits a gasp from the men, most especially Ken. The look on Ken's face could be described as scandalized. It was that or being traumatised for life. Oops. He'll get over it eventually when he finds a girlfriend or a boyfriend!

"Sae-san! I didn't know you were freaky like that! What the hell!" Junpei hollers from the back, his hands resting on his cheeks just like the cover of Home Alone. Akihiko nods in agreement, but also begins to speak up as he does so. "I guess this is another form of training..? Not sure how it works, but what the hell."

Kotone can only keep smiling, reaching out towards Sae's hand to placate her continuously bruised ego. It's okay. The past has already happened. They had a new tomorrow to make together.

"There... there..." she peeps in her best soothing tone.

Out of Kotone's field of view, Yukari silently mouths to Sae. "They won't find the body if you hurt her again."

[truthprevail]

Sometimes I boot up zzz expecting to hear lyn going all IM A SHAPESHIFTERRR AT POES MASQUERADE

[truthprevail]

ive been very zzz-pilled so best believe an actual thought out zzz verse is coming bc i have some semi-juicy ideas

[truthprevail]

In love. Two simple words that she never once thought she would be capable of being; it's a strange feeling, it truly is. From the belief when she was much younger that the matters of the heart simply does not concern her— where others found the solace in a lover, Sae found it in her ambitions. Then came Kotone, who just had to be so damn intriguing to a young Sae Niijima.

She can't help but to steal another kiss. Despite her usually articulate nature, she has no words— only affection she's been denying herself of for all these years. It's like the floodgate that once contained all that finally had its locked eroded, rusted and now comes the outpour of feelings, emotions, and dreams.

❝ Me too. I'm... I love you —❞ Her sentence abruptly cuts off when the sound of the door opening alerts her. Sae jolts, evidently startled and instinctively pulls away, as if a string pulled taut she sits straight, her eyes looking over at the myriad of people pouring in.

Oh... This isn't good. She could feel the heat rise against the apples of her cheeks, every nerve is on fire— she's supposed to be the responsible one and called at the first sign of wakefulness. Yet, she forgot... well, she decided to put it on a backburner until she's gotten her fill of alone time. Using every ounce of willpower she has, she attempts to keep the blush on her cheeks from darkening— but there's only so much she can do when she isn't actively ignoring how she feels and right now, she wants to dig a hole and crawl into it.

A hand drags down her face when Kotone speaks. There's no room for deniability now. Though, maybe that isn't the worst thing. Still, she wishes she had more prepared— wishes she was more put together instead of looking as if she's pulled another all-nighter trying to find classified information relating to Shido and his network. Sae Niijima's seen better days, that's for sure.

All eyes are on her now. Perhaps, she should channel that powerhouse that she is in the courthouse— the one who can speak against scrutiny, against objections, the one who can stand on her own... not the messy, incoherent school girl that Kotone rendered her into.

So, she clears her throat and offers a cordial smile.

❝ Kirijo. The explanation is rather simple— Kotone had just woke up not too long ago and she made a couple requests. I have simply obliged. In fact, I was just about to contact everyone. ❞ She makes a show of looking at the watch on her wrist, as if to set up a precedent for her graceful exit from... this. Work is always an easy cop out, despite the fact that the director's been trying to coax her into taking a leave since November 19th.

But, a part of her doesn't want to leave. Not when there's that sweet serotonin hit of I love yous, and the pure euphoria of hope— perhaps, she'll stay just a while longer despite her legs growing restless and wanting to leave.

❝ Apologies for not calling right away. ❞

A weight of finality and security finally blanketed the incapacitated Universe. Years later, it finally happened. All the tears, the pain, the heartache... It all led up to this moment. There wasn't any feeling that could replicate the bloom in her heart right now. A faint dust of pink brushes her sun-kissed cheeks, a gaze of pure adoration. Love was such a fickle thing - so transcendent in its highest, and an anchor at the lowest. Worldly objects could scarce describe the heartfelt emotions was now experiencing.

The kiss they share tastes of the first breath of spring. The breeze is calm & gentle, and the atmosphere light. Despite the sterile aura of the room, the feeling was oh-so light. 'Twas like if Orpheus never looked back for Eurydice and they found content in the rest of their lives together. A one in a million chance.

With her glasses finally set on her, she can properly see the other for once. No longer could she see the scowl on the prosecutor's face. It was messy, sure. But it was so so soft. This was the face she fantasized seeing one day when she lay alone in her college dorms. These were moments once thought to be a mere delusion. Her hand grips as tightly as it can - which was probably the force of a fish out of water. She had to make sure this wasn't a dream.

"Real... This... is real..?" she questions, the tears beginning to poll in her eyes. No longer were her wants relegated to thoughts she pushed to the back of her head to focus on the task she was doing. For the first time in such a long long time, things were working out for her. If only her body felt the same - but one step at a time.

One day, she hopes to share a domestic life. Something that they can call uniquely theirs despite the twists and turns of the lives they have led to move towards this moment. Her body grows warm, the tire of waking up recently still within. While today she might not be able to share in everything, one day she will.

"I'm... I'm so... in love," Kotone smiles.

Before her thoughts could continue, the door to her room busts wide open - a red-haired woman in a fur coat dashing in only to find the pair. Her eyes dart from Kotone, then to Sae. Her mouth opens for a brief moment, but it shuts almost as soon as it's open. Her lips purse, a signal that she doesn't quite know how to process this situation.

Shortly after, people slowly begin to pile into the room. From one white-haired boxer, to a pink-clad actress, to a genius hacker, baseball coach, android, and a high schooler. While her room was spacious, it was by no means large enough to host the amount of people in it. They all looked out of breath, visible drops of sweat on their foreheads.

Before anyone can utter a word, the wildcard takes initiative. They've been without her for weeks! That signature charm of hers needs to be given regularly!

"Do... you guys... want a kiss too?" she weakly giggles, wriggling her eyebrows towards the lawyer as she does so.

The room falls silent. All eyes move towards the prosecutor in question.

"Niijima, care to explain?" the heiress finally speaks up, arms crossed - amusement on her face.

[truthprevail]

i think if sae was more aware of what gacha games were in 2016, shadow sae's casino woulda just been a big ol gacha game where ppl never get their waifus

[truthprevail]

❝ I'll do everything in my power to, ❞ she smiles soft, her own intertwined fingers grasp onto the other's. Sae gently offers a reassuring squeeze, cautious with her touch. ❝ I promise. I'll do everything I can to make it up to you. ❞

Sae Niijima always avoided making promises because of the weight of them. Always terrified of her innate inability to fulfill them, to meet expectations, she simply elected to never make them — not to Kotone when they were young school girls, not to Makoto, and not to her father before she last saw him on his deathbed. Yet, it's the innate expectation of perfection from herself that sabotaged the good things in her life — it's so obvious, yet, she's spent her entire life mired in this headspace and couldn't see the path beyond it. The promises she's been averse to are what tie people together — it's not the act of fulfilling it, but the act of doing everything one can to stay true to it.

It was that way with her mom and dad. Her memories of then are murky but she remembered every anniversary her father would take the day off and cook dinner, then give a bouquet of her favourite flowers. Sae can barely remember her face but she will never forget the warmth of having both of them there. She gets it now, or so Sae like to think she does.

It's the sound of the rapidly beeping machine that takes her out of her train of thought. There's a rosiness on Kotone's cheeks that she hadn't seen in a long time. Perhaps, it's a tad inappropriate but Sae lets out a quiet chortle nevertheless at the situation. This is so cliched... like one of those Hollywood romance films. She really shouldn't laugh — especially considering how Kotone barely came back from the brink of death. Yet, there's something comical — no, adorable... perhaps, rather... precious about this.

Nevertheless, she obliges and finds the pair of spectacles. Cautiously, she unfolds them, placing them on the other. There's no protesting this time just her careful fingers gingerly brushing away the stray strands of hair. Hand cupping the other's jaw, Sae allows herself to close her eyes before leaning in. Sae's kissed many people over the years — but never like this. Never with a tenderness or anticipation like she does when hers greet the other's lips. It feels like coming home, she thinks. It's short, it's one laced with feeling... and it's a lingering promise; one that foreshadows a future where there's more to come.

❝ Mhm. Anything else? ❞ She inquires softly, her forehead pressing against Kotone's. The memo of calling the rest of their friends is filed in the back of her mind. She'll do it, just not right now. ❝ Just say the word. ❞

Each word that the prosecutor says to her makes her heart race a little faster - the monitor attached to her beeping erratically as each sentence flows into her ears. It was almost like the climax of a symphony. How long has she waited to hear such melodic words from such a monotonous woman? These are feelings she has long known to be true. The length of such emotions bordered on insanity sometimes - the inexplicable strike of the heart to fixate on certain people.

Digits intertwine with Sae's, near powerless fingers curling into it as best as possible. This was much different from the feelings they once shared. No longer was it a question of what-if. It was more like how their feelings would culminate. Kotone's brain struggles to keep up, but somehow - it manages. It was always a peculiar thing to pick at, the perceptiveness to her emotions. Though, she does not disregard the pain it has caused. No. Never. It has probably made her stronger more than anything. A more determined woman.

"I... do..." Kotone breathes out, eyes softening. "Forgive. But..." her lips crack into as best of a smile she can. After all, she was not one to be bastardised thrice in a row. This time, things would be on her terms. "You'll... make it... up to me. Eeeeeeverythiiiiing," each word has a more enunciated tone than then last. The wild card knows that the lawyer would try this time - to what extent she has yet to find. But to have her blurry silhouette be the first thing she sees once she opens her ruined eyes is a welcome change. Better than the last time, at least.

The swift beep of the monitor continues, a pink tint on her autumn leaf-skin, slightly pale. How could anyone describe the feeling she has right now? It was otherworldly. Ethereal. Something right out of a fairy tale. As her strength slowly returns, she tilts her head upwards. "Glasses," she requests, if only to see the reaction Sae is having. "Kiss," another request - thinly veiled demand. She has shattered glass floors time & time again. This would be no different.

For the briefest of moments, it seemed that reality won. Yet, in such a wibbly-wobbly timey-wimey way it works out. Not through magic, nor through circumstance, but pure will. It gave her something to cling onto. Her simply surviving everyday has transcended into another will to live after so long. That maybe the world didn't hate her. That in this game of gods, she was not just a pawn - but a player. But no, that was another discussion.

"Kiss."

[truthprevail]

This girl. This foolish, foolish girl.

Still loving Sae after all these years, after everything she's said and done... she doesn't deserve this grace. In her heart, Sae is acutely aware of the hurt she's caused, the pain she's induced in the other — but would it be truly selfish for her to simply accept this truth? Perhaps, love is... inexplicable, ineffable — perhaps, there are no rational explanation for why the heart does what it does; perhaps, this is why Sae Niijima spent so many years ignoring it, stonewalling it.

Tentatively she reaches her hand out, gently holding one of Kotone's hands. Her thumb strokes the back of her hand, the first genuine smile one her lips in years. It's been so long... she can't remember the last time she felt something as real as this.

❝ You just woke up. You don't have to exhaust more energy than necessary. ❞ Her eyes soften — it's equal parts guilt and adoration that's mirrored in the carnelian irises. The disembodied, hazy memories of what her shadow said can't escape her mind. It along with the investigation into Shido were the only two things that occupied her mind. Is that who she's become? Another corrupt individual abusing whatever authority she has?

❝ We can speak more at a later time... when you've recovered some more. ❞ An anticipatory breath is sucked in. Ideally, she would save these topics for a later date. But, some things feel urgent and desperate to leave her lips. ❝ We can talk more about this when you're feeling better but I just want to say... I'm sorry — for everything I've said and done. I can't imagine the pain I've caused you. I'm... not expecting you to forgive me. I just... have to say all this to you first. ❞

Pulse beats between her ears, thudding against her eardrum and drowning out any sound except her own words. Knowing how the past few years of her life had been, it wouldn't surprise her to realize that she's a step too late... a few years too late. But, this redemption, this penance isn't for Kotone but for the girl that Sae once buried with her own corroded hands. It's justice for the people she's harmed since donning that prosecutor's badge too. It's time she came clean.

❝ I...❞ Her thumb pauses that motion, her body tenses briefly. It's what she owes. It's what Kotone deserves. The truth, her ... feelings. Even if it means letting herself bare it all for the other to see. ❝ For what it's worth... I do love you. I always had but... I was too scared to accept it. I think a part of me always knew. I'm sorry that I'm so late. ❞

There. It's out there in the open now. That one secret that her shadow used as a weapon, that feeling she's spent years burying and denying can no longer be weaponized by anyone... including herself. Aletheia is a cruel persona for having her recall everything and yet, what's the truth without the whole picture? She's wrestling with every urge to get up and leave despite her instincts wanting to do so... just as she did when she realized the callous words she said to Makoto, just as she did that night months ago. Instead, she stays and... the anticipation is killing her.

She can't exactly see right now, but it didn't take a genius to know who was right beside her. The blur held a familiar figure - grey hair with a matching ensemble on her suit to boot. Her facial muscles struggle to move, but they do so for her. The corners of her lips subtly curve upwards, a soft purr leaving their throat.

For years Kotone wondered what life would have been like if the first person to see her when she woke up was Sae. Maybe their lives would have turned out in a much more positive way where they would be able to walk through their issues together. Maybe it would be one where a domestic way of living would be the norm instead of the constant chaos they found themselves in.

Now, she would finally have a chance to see that future - nearly half a decade later. They certainly took the long route to get here. Yet, she wouldn't quite push away what she has right now. It wasn't perfect, but it was theirs. For the first time in a long time, Kotone had something so tangible to her. It was like letting a breath out after holding it in for so long.

Of course, the Universe had a promise to keep. It was something she knew she had to say before anything else. Come what may, this needed to happen. Alea iacta est. With what she has in mind, she knows that life would change for the two of them forever for the better. That was one thing she was confident of.

"Stupid..." she weakly retorts, rolling her eyes. The warmth in her tone contradicts the biting remark. "I... I... love you... I... I pro... promised you..." each word is a struggle, but she knows that this was her chance to lay it all bare. "Happy... As... long... as you're... happy," she finishes - her energy near spent pushing each word out.

"My... Sae..." her lips are unable to morph into anything but a smile. Once again, she can breathe. The only space she wishes to occupy is with Sae at the moment. The first moment they have alone in years, no matter the circumstances, was one to treasure. "Gorgeous."

In the space that they alone occupy, the words she has wished to say have been let out. That despite all the years, all the pain, her feelings haven't changed. The first girl to ever understand her. The first one to pierce through the diamond-clad defenses she held. It might be foolish to think that years later she would feel this way, but she couldn't help it. She was hopelessly in love with Sae Niijima.

[truthprevail]

funny / silly thought but imagine sae niijima after the whole ordeal in her palace gets access to the wildcard. like the tired, twenty something adult who's a workaholic now oughtta go on a fools journey

[truthprevail]

So are you someone that can ask for help or are you the eldest daughter?

[truthprevail]

sun and moon dynamics go so hard i go insane ...

[truthprevail]

Huh?

At first, her eyes simply blink in confusion at the unforeseen response to a question she thought was only left there to fade away into the echoes of the room. Then, carnelian eyes widen, an audible gasp escaping her lips. It's the realization of the truth before her eyes, the familiar warmth of a voice that she hadn't heard in years... a voice that no doubt, still rouses that heart of hers.

Her heart stirs. It's borderline tachycardic. It skips a beat. There's a swirling storm inside her —her emotions a mess, her rational mind not knowing how to output the excessive input of feelings that stirs within herself.

Sae Niijima thought about this scenario many times. Some, were in her dreams at night when she would watch the other awake. Most, felt near cinematic... too cinematic to be considered realistic. Yet, she's thought of all the ways of what her first words to Kotone would be — sometimes, she leaned towards the gentle, tenderness of a greeting; other times, she visioned a slightly melodramatic overflow of emotions ... tears, other times she thought of the tears that would inevitably escape her ( at least, her subconscious brain did ).

And yet...

❝ Oh my god. Y-You're... You're— ❞ as if the words she's thought about countless times vanished into the the air, she finds herself fumbling over her words as if she's a bumbling school girl. Ironic, isn't it? A lawyer like herself being at a loss for words.

Using the opportunity to close her laptop and putting it away into the bag she used to carry it in order to compose herself, Sae finds her eyes unable to move away from the sight before her.

This is real. This is real.

❝ Hey, sleepyhead. You're awake. ❞ Her voice soft, gentle, and measured. There's a soft smile that slowly tugs on the corners of her lips as she shifts the seat closer to the other's bedside.

Somehow, she manages to restrain herself from touching the other — after all, she doesn't even know if Kotone wants her here. That, is a topic for days when she's recovered... should she want that conversation. For now, Sae will remain at her side until otherwise. She should probably call the others.

❝ Anything I can do for you? Do you want me to call everyone? ❞

"Good morning, sleepyhead," Elysium floats above the wild card, a gentle smile on her face. Well, their face. Admittedly, her persona's face felt so... perfect. Perhaps it was a representative of the woman she used to be. Someone she hopes to be once again, but she knows that will never happen. She is the culmination of everything that has happened to her.

"It's almost time. You have a whole world waiting for you, Kotone."

Was it strange? Strange to feel so... terrified of tomorrow? To wake up from the comfortable dream she was in? In a way, the perfect dream would be the best way to live out the rest of her life. No more pain, no more suffering. She would not have to deal with the mania she finds herself in everyday. The pain in her joints would fade, her eyesight would find itself back.

"I'm scared," she manages to croak, a look of sadness painting over her face.

"We're always scared of things we don't know. But that is what makes you human. It's one things the gods will never be able to know. That anticipation. The beauty of life in its joy and horrors. We sleep to have a break, but inevitably we find our way back to reality."

"It doesn't make it any less scary, you know," a wry laugh follows, a sigh after. "Is this your way of saying that the gods don't have any jurisdiction over us anymore? Over me? What about the seal?"

"Safe & sound until the end of our life, my dear Kotone. Besides, you have a promise to fulfill," her younger self giggles, a wink following. "One that lasts your lifetime, right?"

Kotone's eyes widen, her memories slowly piecing themselves back together. Her recollection of the events that led her to her rest now murky to her, only bits and pieces came to. All she knows is that this was a promise she couldn't afford to break. Giving one last smile to Elysium, she shuts her eyes as she swims against the current.

A rhythmic beep stirs her from her rest. She doesn't remember having an alarm clock by her bed? Sounds like a special kind of hell for her to wake up on time. She was never really an early riser, but that damn beep...

Okay, now it was really starting to get on her nerves!

She tries to open her eyes, but an unbearable weight feels like it’s been placed on them. They have never felt so heavy before. Not to mention that for the first time in a long time, she can feel like she’s on something. Touching something. Feeling something. It was unnatural, to say the least. Especially after floating along for so long. There was an incessant ache biting at the back of her head. None of this felt right.

Then, her sense of smell began to perk up once again. It was her favorite type of smell. Lemons & oranges, the citrus scents always managed to calm her. She doesn't remember putting them on though. It felt strange to feel things.

Mustering all of the strength she could gather within herself, she practically pries her own eyes open - a warm, soft light blinding her for a brief moment. She can barely see anything. All she knows was that this was her room.

The blood slowly seeps into her arms, each sensation coming back. Even then, it still feels so heavy. Feels like she might need to regain their mobility again. If Kotone could pout, she would. More effort in a body that could barely give any... fun.

❝ Am I doing the right thing, Koto? ❞

Now that was a voice she could recognise. The words try to come out of her mouth but fall short of anything comprehensible. With all the willpower she can muster, she attempts to look towards the general direction from where she heard Sae's voice.

"I... certainly... hope... you are..." she manages to croak, the corners of her mouth curving upward as much as it can.

[truthprevail]

As expected, the next day the death of the Phantom Thieves' leader was announced across all the broadcasting networks. The reports are so painfully falsified, that Sae couldn't help but to scoff — this was the jail that she found herself shackled in, now, she could see clearly. No matter what she did back then, the outcome would've been the same — she was a lamb to the slaughter either way.

Funny how the very people she once thought were the filth of society are now the ones she is cooperating with. Perhaps, in a way, it's her way of atoning for her sins — in her position, ignorance is a crime. To be ignorant is to tacitly approve of the underhanded nature of this institution.

That veil that once hid her disdain towards the system lifted. Now, all she sees is the corrosion she too, was apart of spreading. Perhaps, the tinted glasses are what helped her survive throughout the years — she doesn't want to be here any longer, but first she must fulfil her promise. It is a vow that she made to both herself and to the boy she risked everything rescuing — take down whoever is the puppet master behind Akechi and ensure Akira's justice is brought to light.

——

Over the past two weeks since the events of her palace, she's found herself revisiting the past. Perhaps, it's the lull in her work schedule — it's definitely no coincidence, given that Shido's influence seemed to be endless. He's infiltrated every possible branch of society, embedded himself like a parasite siphoning off of the last bit of resources the people had to offer.

Strangely enough, she's started to rekindle the relationships she once had in her youth. The bonds she once cherished but pushed away because she loathed the idea of being the one relying on others... after all, so many once called her a pillar — a calming presence, as if Sae being present is enough to soothe.

Never once did she share about her true feelings about her family. Never once did she speak ill of her working father. Perhaps, if she allowed herself to reach out her hands to others... then she wouldn't've become what she became.

From the terse atmosphere that conjured itself from the moment Yukari Takeba and Sae Niijima were found in the same room, to the old familiar feeling of chatting with Akihiko and Mitsuru, and of course, the ever entertaining Junpei... it's nostalgic.

And Ken... he's grown so much.

He reminds her of Akechi.

Akechi.

——

It's another visitation. Makoto's been occupied with the operation of infiltrating Shido's palace... and Sae's been busy gathering external intel on the politician. Yet, it's been frustrating. Her laptop placed on a surface top, the sound of the machines becoming effectively background noise for her at this point.

On a practical standpoint, this place, thanks to Yamagishi, she could try to access information without the paranoia of being tracked. Naturally, Sae is cautious but knowing that the likelihood of her movements being traced back to her by her higherups is close to nil, it does soothe her oddly. But, despite the seemingly unfettered access, the information she does glean are heavily redacted.

Once again, it appears another roadblock.

This time, her stubborn determination isn't out of the desire for a promotion or anything of that sorts but rather to see this scum of a human be punished for all his crimes... and all the deaths associated with him. To think that she too, was once but another puppet underneath him disgusted her. This is revenge, this is vengeance for those who could not speak — for those who were falsely accused of crimes they committed. This will be her last act as prosecutor, that she vows.

Briefly, her eyes lift from her screen and glances over at the other woman who's been there motionless for what seems to be forever. A part of her feels guilty that she's brought her work here instead of sitting there, and watching over Kotone's every movement (or rather, lack thereof) like a dutiful spouse and report the minute a change is spotted.

Yet, that isn't who she is.

...surely, she wouldn't mind if Sae is following her heart, right?

❝ There's a journalist — she frequents Crossroads. I've seen her there perhaps in passing. I'm... I'm just tired. Shido's have eyes and ears everywhere — and I just... was doing the right thing always this hard? It didn't used to feel that way... am I — am I doing the right thing, Koto? ❞

Nary a response from Kotone, the room still as silent as ever. Her chest rises & falls, an indication that for the moment she is fine. Perhaps the best indication they will get for a while. Gently, the door swings open. Aigis walks in with a few pillows & a blanket, an apologetic smile on her face.

"When... when this first happened, I was like you," her voice tries to be reassuring, but the concern fails to leave. "I sense that you're not in the mood for any conversation right now, so just listen to me," she carefully drapes the blanket over the tired prosecutor, setting the pillow to the side.

"She will probably be out for few weeks. I don't think she used as much energy as she did when she... first created the seal. Back then, it was a few months... It felt horrible. I feel like I should have done more. You weren't there during the Abyss of Time, but..." the android takes a deep breath, at this point she was more human than robot. A gentle reassurance that yes they have all changed. "You should have seen Yukari. She almost went insane, trying to steal the key from me to turn back time & save her from her fate. All of us love Kotone so so much."

Aigis grabs the chair to Kotone's computer desk, lifting it effortlessly and placing it beside Sae. Her palm splays against the broad of her back, reassuring rubs moving in circles as the blonde looks towards the wild card sleeping peacefully.

"But she has never loved someone so much as she loved you," her words are soft, emotions swirling with each syllable. "It makes me jealous in a way. Jealous, sad, angry... a whole range of emotions. The way you threw her to the side & ignored her. Yet, she has chosen to forgive you time & time again. She sees something in you that perhaps none of us really do. Because of her, I can't help but root for you."

Her eyes close, hands retracting to herself. Head tilting upwards, her nose inhales to fragrant smell of orange & lemons, Kotone's favorite scent to put in her diffuser. "It must be such a privilege to be loved by Kotone Shiomi."

[truthprevail]

zenless zone zero verse tentative.

name: niijima, sae age: 26 occupation: prosecutor (s1), defense lawyer (s1 epilogue onwards) faction: criminal investigation special response team (s1, formerly) combat: physical / stun / strike

basic info.

during the fall of the old capital, she lost her mother. her father was the one who rescued both her and her sister, makoto.

her father was a busy police officer who was rarely home, leaving sae to take care of and effectively raise her younger sister.

her father was investigating a case that had close ties with bringer, thus, during an investigation in a hollow, they announced that his death was an accident. the truth was, he was used as a sacrifice.

sae becomes a prosecutor with the government in hopes to find more leads about her father's case. little was she aware of how deep the corruption ran in the system.

when bringer's true intention was brought to light, it was her last straw. whilst she could attempt to make internal reforms, she knew that her efforts were better protecting the people who were being unfairly targeted by law enforcement

i don't think her relationship with makoto is nearly as strained but also considering the 7 year age difference, makoto is also 20. so.

she can meet the proxies (aka the protag siblings) at any point in the story, let's be honest here. she can be found in lumina square during the evening, and sometimes on sixth street at night.

more to be added... as per usual lmao

[truthprevail]

Truthfully, she shouldn't be the one commenting. Late nights and Sae Niijima were like confidants. The moonlight knew all of her secrets, all of her insecurities, and every struggle that she refused to let other people around her see. This night was like many others — sleep continuously eluded her.

Instead, she elected to go for a run in the crisp twilight air. Whilst typically Sae preferred activities that were high in adrenaline such as kickboxing, running in a quiet morning was also pleasant. It soothed her. The slight ache in her chest, the twinge in her throat took her mind away anxiety laden thoughts — even if it was only temporary.

❝ Yes. You look like you could use some sleep... or coffee. ❞ Sae offered Fuuka a faint smile. Typically, she was used to only seeing her own reflection as she moved about during the twilight hours. Then again, it wasn't typically the time of night that she was prone to socializing with her fellow humans.

@truthprevail sent: "It's 4am. You need sleep."

Lack of Sleep Starters! / accepting

Fuuka had been up since the sun has been up working on a new program for the Kirijo group. And while she thought she was successful hours ago, the website crashed and caused Fuuka to almost lose her absolute mind. So, another few more hours, 10 minutes to rest her eyes, and she finally was able to submit the program to Mitsuru to make sure her approval was perfect.

...it won't be perfect when she sees that Fuuka sent it at almost 4am. She ran her fingers through her sort of messy braid as she heard someone calling out to her.

"H-huh?" Fuuka looked up from her laptop, attempting to stretch her neck, and noticed a female on the other side of the table. She wondered how long she had been here while she watched Fuuka struggling--hopefully only a few minutes. "It's...four? In the morning?" Fuuka asked, knowing she heard the female say it's four, but then had to double check she wasn't hallucinating.

[truthprevail]

Albeit the truth about the Phantom Thieves had come to light, allowing the previous theory she once had about a resurgence of Strega to dissipate into the air of conspiracy, the idea of the change of heart is still... dubious at best for her. Memories of the past cannot shake from her as she recalls Shinjiro carrying the guilt of accidentally killing the mother of Ken Amada, resulting in the unfortunate event of October 4th of that year. Intentions do mean something but they're not everything. Perhaps, it is hypocritical for her to judge or to be skeptical of the methods considering she too, was a recipient of a calling card.

Yet, Ace's past is still her's. It's still apart of her no matter how much she's tried to move on from it, leave it buried... except it never stayed buried, it only festered until the rot surfaced and eroded the relationship between the one person she loved more than anything. Her raison d'être, the reason why she allowed her morals to be corroded by a system that used the truth like it was putty in their hands.

❝ Hand gun? ❞ For a moment, she's confused. Ace would never carry a gun, it is both illegal and dangerous. Then, as if on cue, she looks down at the evoker in her holster. A faint smile tugged onto her lips. ❝ Ah, this thing. It's an evoker. I will admit, it does bear a striking resemblance to a handgun. However, its purpose is for summoning our personas, as provided by the Kirijou Group. ❞

It's been years since she's last put the cold, metallic muzzle of the evoker against her temple. The last time she recalls it was during the Golden Week of 2012 when one of her former comrades of SEES tossed one towards her as she battled a shadow of a friend.

❝ I see that it is just the two of us, ❞ she begins with an obvious observation. ❝ We don't have a navigator — I can assume you have that aspect considered, yes? ❞ Fingers rest on her chin, she strokes lightly as if deep in thought. Ronin is another her... and she wouldn't come here unprepared — at the very least she should trust herself.

No point in thinking too hard right now. It would appear that the objective today is to use the shadows akin to how she would use the punching bags when she's kickboxing. A faint, albeit amused smile, graces her lips whilst her fingers flex and unflex, the sound of knuckles crackling echo faintly in the air.

❝ I will admit, it's been a long time since I've last fought a shadow. ❞ Cautiously, she observes their surrounding. An overwhelming amount of crimson it would appear, an almost oppressive aura... as if it's the cage that keeps people captive simply by sheer force. ❝ I'll follow your lead. ❞

Of course she'd find it cool. She has eyes. If the outfit of a prosecutor was a outward piece of equipment to sell the image of a perfect lawyer and cold outer shell? This outfit speaks to a far more imperfect inner self, jagged and violent and more than eager to serve Justice with her own two hands. Not at all prim or proper. But well, prim and proper was what damned her. Appearances hiding a soul bent into a monstrous shape that was slowly killing her. A rugged and sturdy shell that is similar to her little sister's is far more honest to who she feels she is.

"It's good to have you here then, Ace. A pair of gloves and a handgun will serve you well in this place."

She would be an ace attorney. Just as Ronin would finally cut down the last of her cruel masters when the case is done. A blade with no wielder but herself. The SIU had made a fine weapon from the resentful young lawyer...but ended up losing control of her. Because Makoto loved Sae, the Thieves had believed in Sae.

And in Court, she had seen the end result of her forsaken Justice. Carving through whoever stood in her way to rise to the top, playing the game by the rules until she stood at the peak. A perfect streak of convictions...and nothing for her sacrificed ideals but bloodied hands and a broken heart.

And she SNAPPED.

"AND I WON'T LET YOU TAKE MY LIFE FROM ME AGAIN!" She had roared to her Shadow.

Now she is all-in on their cause, for it is hers. The banner of rebellion was in her taloned grasp. The duty of ripping the guilty from their perches and delivering them judgement? It was always Sae's job to do that. All that has changed, is that she has a new method of acquiring evidence.

"For today, I have two people who are marked for Changes of Heart. The first is Isa Itou, a 45 year old accountant who holds information regarding Masayoshi Shido's material holdings and his internal money flow. She is also wracked with distorted desires regarding her family and wanting them to finally acknowledge her efforts for signing up to his sinking ship."

Pressing a button on whatever facsimile that the Tokyo underground has for an elevator, the sound of muffled trains running is interrupted by the customary motorized noises of such a device. Enough time to make a few observations after the briefing.

"Second is Sawa Yuu. She was a childhood friend of Kunikaze Okumura and notably, is one of the few members of the Conspiracy who is feeling active remorse. Probably due to her status as someone who helped Shido grab ahold of Kunikaze. However...she too has a distortion. A belief that it is all her fault. So, her heart is to be changed too."

Ding! The elevator opens, and the cloaked of the two puts in two commands for floors.

"Some Changes of Heart are theraputic in nature. The one that Oracle underwent was the most notable of these cases. I'll show you both cases...and I believe you will be enlightened by the particulars."

The elevator beckons. Reckoning and revelation in equal measure, only a brief sojourn away. That...and two confrontations.

"Call it a hunch...but I think you may enjoy some of this."

[truthprevail]

gotta represent fox, being evicted for being poor and trying to grow crops in his closet sub lease

HELPPPPPP

at this point she'd just ask him to move into her place please