Now this is another story. Some of these characters to come may talk, look, or even sound the same but this story takes place within another world entirely. Another Universe, one where Manuel Estrada never moved to Kochi City. One where Kamen Riders have never existed but you will soon find that even though this is another story of his. You will find that Manuel, Anthony, Angel and their friends will have to face against many obstacles ahead. So with that being said. Despite knowing that this story will be different than from the ones you're all used to will you be willing to accept the terms and join these versions of Anthony, Angel, and Manuel on their quest?

"No way"/ "Yes, of course"

You have selected Yes. Then the adventure shall begin. Just remember that there will not be any turning back after this. Do you still wish to continue?.............Okay then let's dive down into this new and unforeseen world.

———————————————————————
*Manuel's POV*

Manuel will be narrating for specific points in time about an event and/or character with the "*" character

(Manuel's Room)

???: Hey Manuel! Get up or else I'm leaving without you!

"I groan as I slowly opened my eyes and picked myself up from my bed. I stretched as I then wiped my eyes trying to get used to the sunlight that's entering my room from the window. I turned over to my clock and looked at the time."

*Time: 10:50am*

Manuel: Huh?..........(Screams)

"I quickly got up from my bed but before I got onto the floor with my two feet I hit my knee against my desk and I fell to the ground. Meanwhile, my little sister opens my door and watches me as I'm recovering from my injury."

*Yeah that's me...don't worry though this usually always happens whenever I'm late for something.*

???: (Sighs) Honestly.....(Facepalms)

*This is my little sister Isabella. We call her "Bella" for short at least my parents do anyways. She doesn't like it when I call her that. Age 12, top of her class, about to start her final year of grade school. Now I should warn you while she may "look" like the perfect little sister. She's actually a bit..........*

Isabella: (Growls) MOVE YOUR ASS ALREADY!!! WE GOT TO GO!!! (Slams door shut)

Manuel: R-Right! (Gets up and rushes to get ready and change)

-Play Persona F Spotify Playlist Track #17 - "宝生永夢のテーマ ～天才ゲーマーM"-

*Yeah I'm not really sure I have to say anything for you to get the point. But to be honest I kind of deserve it since we're going to be leaving our hometown to stay over with a long-term family friend of ours while our parents go away for the next two years while on a business abroad. We're supposed to be going to Seito city on a train and we're supposed to be there before 12:00pm but it takes a hour to get there from our house so......yeah........*

(Manuel's School uniform)

"After getting dressed in my new school uniform. I opened my suitcase on my bed ran over to my closet and threw all of my clothes into the suitcase and I struggled to close it. Meanwhile I can hear Isabella yelling from the bottom of the stairs."

Isabella: OKAY! I'M LEAVING WITHOUT YOU THEN!!!

Manuel: YOU'RE NOT EVEN OLD ENOUGH TO CROSS THE STREET BY YOURSELF MUCH LESS GO TO THE STATION ALONE! I'M ALMOST READY JUST THREE MORE MINUTES!

Isabella: FINE!!!

"I head into my bathroom and started to wash my face then brushed my teeth. I combed my hair to get rid of my bed head and as soon as I did I ran down the stairs with all of my belongings and turned to Isabella."

Manuel: Okay so did you pack everything you need?

Isabella: Of course I did! Unlike you I didn't slept in!

Manuel: Okay I'm sorry that one was on me. Let's get moving.

"I exit the house with Isabella and we began to run down the sidewalk towards the station."

*Oh yeah I never introduced myself. Sorry it's not like you would already know who I am. My name is Manuel Estrada I'm 15 years old, top of my class back at middle school and about to start my freshman year of high school. I'm a little worried if I got to be honest here but hopefully I'll be able to make some new friends. Though I did wished I could've started high school with my best friends here in my hometown but I'm sure they'll be fine without me.*

"We finally made it to the station with ten minutes to spare."

Announcement: Now boarding Train 10 to Seito City.

Manuel: Okay great lets go Isabella.

Isabella: Okay...

"We both entered the train and we took the most empty train car that we could find. Isabella took her seat as I get both of our bags and put them into the luggage self just right above us. I then took my seat."

Manuel: Okay so do you got your toothbrush?

Isabella: Yes.

Manuel: Do you got your hairbrush?

Isabella: Yes...

Manuel: Did you get all of your clothes?

Isabella: For the love of- Yes! I do! I just wish that Mom and Dad didn't have to send me to the city especially with you. You're so annoying.

Manuel: Hey! I don't like this as much as you do in fact I hate that we gotta leave home like this but Mom and Dad don't trust us to be alone at the house.

Isabella: Correction they don't trust you to watch over me and the house. After all I am their favorite...(Looks out window)

Manuel: (Sighs) If Mom and Dad didn't trust me to look after you then why would I even be on this train with you then?

Isabella: I don't know.

Manuel: Because whether you like it or not I'm supposed to be the one to watch over you. The only person who does...

Isabella: I'm old enough to take care of myself...

Manuel: Well until Mom and Dad sees that. You're stuck with me.

"Me and Isabella look out the window of the train car. I wondered to myself "Why do I have to go?" I hate that I got to leave but I got a responsibility and I need to watch over her no matter what."

*Me and my parents haven't always been on the greatest of terms. We constantly fight whether it was in person or over the phone. My parents always took a shining towards Isabella. She always listens to them and in return she gets spoiled. I resent my parents for that but no matter what I have to be responsible for her even though she can be a little.....aggressive at times.*

Announcement: Last call for the 12:00pm train to Seito City.

???: (In Distance) WAAAITTT!!!!

???: (In Distance) HOOOLD UPP!

Manuel: The hell? (Looks out window)

-End Track-

"I see from the distance two of my friends running towards the entrance of the train car that me and Isabella were in and rushed inside with their suitcases. Luckily, they made it just before the doors closed."

???: (Panting) Yay.....we made it....Angel.

Angel: (Panting) Yeah.....we did.....not gonna lie I thought that we weren't going to....You good Anthony?

*These two are my best friends Angel Venegas and Anthony Date. They're in the same year as I am and we've been friends for two whole years and counting. Although, I don't know why they've came here.*

Manuel: Guys what are you two doing here?

Angel: Isn't that obvious? (Stands up) We're coming with you.

Isabella: Oh boy... (Facepalms)

Manuel: Wait what?!

Anthony: (Stands up) Yeah we're here to go to Seito City with you. We can't have you start High School without your best friends.

Manuel: Wow guys that's really nice of the both of you but...you can't I mean what would your parents say? Me and Bella are going to be there for two whole years.

Angel: We already told our folks.

Manuel: And they agreed...?

Anthony: Nope we both got kicked out of our homes and told us, "If you wish to go with your friend so badly then don't expect any help from us."

Manuel: Damn that's.....messed up...

Angel: Yup so if you will please for the love of god let us come with you!

Anthony: If we go back to our home then we'll never hear the end of it!

Manuel: Well....(Looks at Isabella)

Isabella: Why are you looking at me for?! They're your annoying friends!

Manuel: (Sighs) Fine you two can come with but I don't know if the person that's gonna take us in is going to be okay with it though.

Angel: Don't worry about that I'm sure we'll all work something out.

Manuel: Are you guys even registered into the high school I'm going to be attending?

Anthony: Yeah of course we did. We both transferred there so they should be expecting us.

Angel: We'll get our schedules and uniforms once we're there. Just to be sure you're attending Swift Star Academy right?

Manuel: (Facepalms) You aren't even sure that you got the right school?

Angel: Just answer the question Manuel!

Anthony: Please!

Manuel: Yes, it is...

"Both Angel and Anthony sigh in relief."

Angel: Okay.....thank god....

Anthony: We really dodged the bullet there...

Isabella: Unbelievable.....

Manuel: You guys really didn't think this through...

Angel: Hey we were thinking on your behalf Manuel.

Manuel: Look do you guys even know what your shelter situation is gonna be? I mean what if the person that me and Isabella are supposed to stay with, say "No" to you guys staying there?

Anthony: Huh?

Angel: What do you mean?

Manuel: I mean that our caretaker might say "No" to you guys staying. He's only expecting the two of us.

Anthony: B-but you could talk to him about this r-right?

Manuel: I mean I could try but I haven't met the man as of yet so I don't know what he's like.

Angel: No way...

Manuel: Look we'll cross that bridge once we get there okay? For now let's just enjoy the ride okay?

Anthony: Sounds good.

Angel: Okay...

Isabella: This is gonna be a long trip...

"While the two freeloaders took their seats by us. Isabella gets out her headphones and plugs them into her phone as she closed her eyes. For a while, me, Anthony, and Angel talked with one another about various things until they fell asleep on the train ride. I looked out of the window and watched as all the buildings of the city we are currently leaving is flying by fast before the train moves into a tunnel. I closed my eyes as I drifted off to sleep."

*If only I knew at that time there on the train. If only I knew what was in store for me and the others for the next two years there...*

*Manuel's POV*

*Within Dream*

-Play Persona F Spotify Playlist Track #6 - "Hymn of the Soul"-

"I opened my eyes as I woke up. I looked around and saw nothing but greenery around me. I stood up and see that I was in the middle of a forest."

Manuel: Hello? Is anyone there?

"I began to walk down the trail as I looked around. I was in awe by the entire forest then I look forward to see a door. I slowly walked towards the door with caution. I looked behind it to see that it leads no where. My curiosity got the better of me. I turned the handle and I walked through the door. When I walked through the door I was now in a hospital room that was shaded in a dark blue color. I turned around to see that the door was gone."

???: Welcome to the Velvet Room...

"I look forward to see a girl no younger than I am as she was seated in a rolling chair."

Manuel: Who....are you..?

???: You have a rather unique destiny laid out before you just as your two friends do as well...

Manuel: Huh?

???: This room exists between mind and matter. Separating Dreams from Reality. Only those who had signed a contract can be able to enter this room.

Manuel: What the hell are you saying? I didn't sign anything.

???: Yes and that is why my master instructed me to meet you and your friends. You three were never supposed to make any sort of entry into this realm but alast one of you did. Making this rather fascinating. What make you three so special I wonder? I wonder if it'll only be a matter of time before your friends come here as well.

Manuel: Okay look I don't know what's going on here but could I leave? This is already weird how I ended up here in the first place.

???: As you wish, however you may stumble your way back here again and when you do I will be waiting for you. Until then farewell...

"The strange took out a strange device and pushed the button on it and it shot me out of the room causing me to fall into a dark void."

Manuel: (Screaming) AHHHHHHH!!!

(The strange device)

*Back in reality*

-End Track-

"I woke up in a panic as I was panting from what had happened. I looked around only to see the others asleep and it being nighttime outside while the train is continuing it's trip to the city. I calmed myself down as I wiped off the cold sweat on my forehead and heard the intercom on the train go off."

*Time: 6:30pm*

Intercom: Attention passengers we will be arriving at Seito City shortly.

Manuel: Okay.....just a Dream....

"I stood up from my seat and shook everyone up softly."

Manuel: Hey you guys. We should prepare to get off. We're nearly at our stop.

-Play Persona F Spotify Playlist Track #183 - "I'm Always Thinking of you"-

"After waking everyone up, we got our luggage and stepped out the train as the doors open. We looked at our new home for the next two years in awe except for Isabella who is on her phone."

(This is the view from the station)

Anthony: WOW Seito city looks amazing.

Angel: I heard stories that it has a huge population but seeing it in person. It's just-

"I looked at the city but something seemed off about it. I couldn't put my finger on it but it felt Nostalgic. Anthony noticed this."

Anthony: Hey what's up with you?

Manuel: Huh? No it's umm nothing...

Isabella: Umm Hello?!

"We all turned back to Isabella."

Isabella: Is someone gonna call a car to get us?! Or do I have to do everything myself?!

Manuel: (Sighs and shakes head) Yeah yeah I'm on it...(Takes out phone and dials number)

*Little did we know that from the moment we stepped off that train we all became targets.*

*End Track*

Third-person POV

-Play Persona F Spotify Playlist Track #29 - "うらぎりの理由"-

"From a distance"

???: It's him...

Mystery male's voice: (Through earpiece) Are you certain?

???: Yeah.....I could feel the power within him. He's with two other males around the same age it seems and accompanied by a little girl who looks slightly younger...

Mystery male's voice: (Through earpiece) Do you believe the others are special as well?

???: It's hard to say the other two males give off a strange sort of energy nothing from the girl though..

Mystery male's voice: (Through earpiece) Keep an eye on them. I want all tabs on those three.

???: Got it. It'll be done sir...(Turns off earpiece) Let the games begin...

"The mystery man who was watching Manuel and the others watched away as he holds a strange device in his hand."

(The device he was holding)

-End Track-

Manuel's POV

"We were in the car taking us to our caretakers house we were all looking out the windows as the driver starts up a conversation with Manuel."

Driver: So did you come back from vacation with your friends here?

Manuel: Huh?

Driver: I'm asking because you're wearing a Swift Star Academy uniform classes start back up tomorrow.

Manuel: Oh this? No. We're actually new around these parts. We're staying here for the next two years.

Driver: Oh I see. Well wherever you came from I could almost guarantee that Seito City is a way better city than most others. We got a lot of stuff here. I would tell you about it but that would ruin the surprise. You're better off exploring after your classes are over.

Manuel: That's good to hear. Maybe this won't be so bad...

Driver: (Coughs violently)

Manuel: Are you okay mister?

Driver: Yeah don't worry about me. It's just time of the year you know with the pollen in the air.

Manuel: Oh I see. I hope you'll get better.

Driver: Thanks kid. Oh we're here.

"The driver stops the car and the others get out with their luggage. I get out my wallet and gave the driver a 10000 yen bill to him."

Manuel: Here this should cover the ride and keep the change.

Driver: Wow thanks kid!

Manuel: No problem. Just take it easy for now.

Driver: Don't worry I will and believe me I was in much worst condition a few days ago. Well I'll see you around kid.

"I shook hands with the driver and he drove off. I turned around and we all faced the caretaker's house."

Angel: So this the place?

Manuel: (Pulls out piece of paper with address) Yeah this is it.

(The house)

Anthony: This is a nice house...

Manuel: Yeah I think he's a doctor.

Isabella: Doctor or not ring the buzzer already! I'm tired I want to sleep in a bed.

Manuel: Okay okay...(Presses buzzer)

Man's voice: (Through intercom) Who's there?

Manuel: Hi mister....(Looks at paper) Mister Nakamura? James Nakamura?

Man's voice: (Through intercom) To who's concern?

Manuel: My name is Manuel Estrada and I have Isabella Estrada here. We were told by our parents that you're our caretaker?

"The doorbell intercom goes silent. I looked at the others in confusion and then spoke through the intercom again."

Manuel: Mister Nakamura?

"We then heard the front slammed open as we see a man in his early thirties come out."

Nakamura: Manuel! Isabella!

"Our caretaker charges towards like a speeding bullet and hugs me and Isabella tightly."

Isabella: Can't breathe....

Manuel: Umm sir...? You're kinda crushing us....

Nakamura: Oh I'm sorry.

"Nakamura lets go of us. Isabella and me breathe heavily as we recover from the hug."

Nakamura: It is so great to see the two of you again!

(James Nakamura)

*This is James Nakamura or otherwise called the "Marksman" in the hospital. He's rather goofy for when we met him outside the hospital but he's a rather serious doctor.*

Manuel: Wait you know us?

Nakamura: What? You forgot? I'm your dad's best friend and best man. I babysat you guys when you were younger and I was there for your births as well. I even send you two birthday and Christmas gifts every other year to your home.

Manuel: Wait that was you?! Wow I never knew what about you Bella?

Isabella: Didn't know and still don't care...(Goes on phone)

Manuel: Wait if you're that close to the family why are we only now meeting you?

Nakamura: Well your father and I haven't been on the bestest of terms. Anyways you guys must be tired come on in- (Sees Angel and Anthony) Oh hello who are you two?

Angel: Heya mister!

Anthony: Please take care of us! (Bows) Angel!

Angel: Oh right. (Bows)

Nakamura: Manuel, in my email by your father it only said about you and Isabella coming. Who are they?

Manuel: Well...they're my friends....I'm sorry I honestly didn't know that they were coming.....we were on the train and last minute they just invited themselves here...(Nervously laughs)

"James facial expression turns into a more stern and sour expression."

Manuel: (Speed talks) LOOKSIRIKNOWTHATTHISISTOOMUCHTOASKBUTCOULDYOUPLEASEFINDITINYOURHEARTTOLETMYFRIENDSSTAYHEREINYOURHOME?! (Bows)

"I look back up to James as he still has the stern expression."

Nakamura: So you expect me to take in two other people who I do not know into my home. Where they will sleep, shower, eat and live in for the next two years and you expect me to be okay with that?!

Manuel: Uhhhh.....

Nakamura:..........Well of course it's okay! This is great news honestly!

Manuel: Wait what?!

Nakamura: It's been rather lonely in my home for the past year so I was so happy to take care of the two of you for the next two years and now I have two more mouths to feed! That means double the fun, double the people, and double the bonds we will forge! Oh this going to be the greatest two years ever my boys and gal!

Manuel: So it's okay then?

Nakamura: Well I do have to put in some ground rules in order for them to stay. After all this isn't a bed and breakfast but other than that it's fine there's plenty of room!

Angel: Told you this would work out.

Anthony: I was honestly scared there for a second...

Nakamura: Well What are you all standing there for? Are your legs broken? If they are I'll fix them! If not let's go in inside.

"We followed Nakamura inside his home as we took off our shoes at the entrance way. We walk into the living room and looked around."

(The living room)

Manuel: Wow this is a nice home.....

Anthony: You don't see anything like this back home that's for sure....

Isabella: (Looks up from phone) Meh I seen better...

Manuel: Bella...!

Angel: (whistles) Damn dude you got a great crib here!

Manuel & Anthony: Angel! Show some respect!

Nakamura: It's fine. This is a pretty damn great crib after all.

Angel: See this guy's cool with it.

Nakamura: Okay so Umm rooms are upstairs. Pick whichever one you like expect the room at the left side of the house is mine. No one is allowed there without my permission.

Manuel: Of course.

Nakamura: Now if you guys gonna stay here especially your two friends we all have to do our part no freeloaders!

"Me and Anthony look at Angel"

Angel: What?

Nakamura: Chores means taking out the trash, doing the dishes you know the standard stuff. For the little lady lights out at 10pm okay?

Isabella: (Looks up from phone) Huh? Oh yes of course. Could I go and choose my room now?

Nakamura: By all means...

"Isabella goes upstairs to choose her room leaving me and the others with James to go over the ground rules."

Nakamura: Now for you guys. You're all going to high school now right?

Anthony: Yes sir!

Angel: We're going to the same school that Manuel is going to. We just gotta check in at the Faculty Office.

Nakamura: Okay...now you guys can be up however long you want and go out however long.

Manuel: Really?

Nakamura: There's just one catch about this. I'm not your mommy so if you guys are late for school don't expect me to wake you guys up the next day. You must notify me where you're going and if you're gonna be out for long so that way I wouldn't have to worry about you guys. You're big boys though so you could take care of yourselves.

Angel: Yeah of course man! Up high! (Raises hand)

"Nakamura looks towards Angel with a stern look once again."

Anthony: (Whispers) *Angel put your hand down!*

"Angel proceeds to high five himself and puts his hand down as he clears his throat."

Nakamura: Also if you guys missed too much of school or get into any sort of trouble whatsoever you're all gonna be on lockdown with a curfew of 9pm.

Anthony: What? Excuse me sir but why do all of us have to be punished?

Nakamura: Because most likely one of you would get in trouble for doing something dumb and the others could have very well prevent it from happening.

Manuel: Fair enough.

Nakamura: Lastly you and Isabella are good but your friends on the other hand you're gonna need to find jobs to pay for staying here.

Anthony & Angel: WHAT?!

Angel: I've never worked a day in my life!

Anthony: How do you expect us to find work so fast?

Nakamura: Jobs are everywhere in the city. Just ask around someone is bound to hire you guys. Other than that....., I say that's pretty much it. Don't worry I won't charge you all too much maybe enough for the groceries or such necessities. My home is now your home.

Manuel: Thank you for your hospitality...and thanks for letting these morons stay here.

Anthony & Angel: Hey!

Nakamura: (Laughs) Don't thank me just yet if they miss one payment then they're out of here. Understand?

All: Yes sir!

Nakamura: Okay then. Now you guys pick your rooms, go relax and put your stuff down. I'll call you guys to let you know when dinner is ready.

Angel: Awesome! I'm starving!

Anthony: I can help out Mr. Nakamura! You're coming too Angel!

Angel: How come I-?!

"Anthony then smacks Angel behind the head and then pulls him by the arm forcing Angel to go with him and Nakamura to the kitchen. I smiled to myself as I walked up to the second floor and walked through the hallway and noticed a slightly open door as I looked through the crack I saw Isabella getting everything situated in her new room. I continue down the hallway as I came across a door at the end of the hall and I opened the door to see total darkness. I reached my arm into the dark room to feel for a little switch and as soon as I found it I flipped it and turned on the light revealed what would be my bedroom for this moment onward."

Manuel: (whistles) wow....

"I set my bag on the bed and looked around the entire room. Every inch of the room seemed to be completely maintained and clean not a spec of dust anywhere the more I looked and walked around the room."

Manuel: As expected from a doctor I guess....must always have the need to make sure that a room is clean...

"I look at the door leading to a balcony outside, I opened the door and walk outside to the balcony as I took this chance to relax outside, take a breather and look at the shining lights of Seito City."

Manuel: (softly smiles) Maybe this won't be so bad...

"I walk back inside to the room and suddenly I began to break into a violent cough."

Manuel: (coughs) what the hell...?

"I cleared my throat and took a deep breath in."

Manuel: what was that...? Hope I'm not getting sick or anything. (Feels forehead with hand) Weird I don't feel like I have a fever or anything....maybe that driver was right about the pollen.

"I brushed it off and went about my night. We all took the food that was made tonight to our rooms and ate there. After doing the dishes, we all went to sleep for the night since we had school the next day."

*The Next Day*

*Time: 7:10am*

"I adjusted my tie as I had stepped into a full length mirror in the bathroom. I examine myself in the mirror and was very disgusted by the uniform. I personally never liked uniforms especially for school. I thought I would be rid from them come High School that was the plan before my parents announced the move. I sighed as I opened the door to the bathroom and went down stairs to the living room to meet with Bella, Anthony and Angel. Bella was in her own school uniform while Anthony and Angel were in their own street clothes from yesterday since they don't have their uniforms since they had barely applied to the school. We all had our school bags and they had their own bento boxes prepared for themselves except for me."

Manuel: So are we all good to go?

Isabella: (sighs) Obviously..

Angel: Yup!

Anthony: Pretty much.

Angel: Wait Manuel you're not packing a lunch?

Manuel: Nah I usually always skip lunch anyways.

Nakamura: UNACCEPTABLE!!!

"All of us except for Bella jumped up as we see Nakamura storm out of the kitchen holding a bento box. He gives it to me in my hands."

Manuel: You made me a lunch?

Nakamura: Of course! What kind of caretaker would I be if I didn't? My god when your sister said that you don't eat as much she didn't mention that you skip out in-between meals.

Manuel: (Looks at Isabella) really?

Isabella: Hey he asked me and I gave him an honest answer.

Nakamura: As a doctor I must care about everyone's well being skipping meals isn't good Manuel. You don't have to eat it all if you don't feel like it but at least a little bit?

Manuel: (Softly smiles) thank you...Sensei....

"A past memory flashs of a doctor speeds through my mind."

Unknown Doctor: You need to keep up your strength Manuel. If you eat properly I know you could get better in no time."

"This flash in my mind passes as quickly as it had came. I was bewildered by this but merely smiled to myself."

Nakamura: Now let's get to the car. I have a late start at the Hospital today. So I'll be driving you guys to school alright?

Angel & Anthony: Okay!

Isabella: (Sighs) whatever...

"Isabella puts on her headphones and follows the group over to Nakamura's car. I shake my head trying to focus on getting ready for the first day. I checked my backpack to make sure everything is there that I would need for classes and I see that I forgot my class schedule."

Manuel: Damn it. Hold on guys I have to look around for my schedule!

Angel: Kay! Just hurry it up!

Anthony: Yeah we don't want to late!

"I run up the stairs and I rush into my room and look on the desk and see my class schedule."

Manuel: There it- is...?

"I see a white device on the desk on top of the class schedule paper form. I picked it up and examined it."

Manuel: What is this..?

"It took me a bit to realized that this device has some bit of weight on it. It felt familiar somehow but I couldn't put my finger on it."

Manuel: Didn't I...? Have one of these before...?

"Suddenly I started coughing violently. I dropped the device and I fell to my knees as I am trying desperately to catch my breath. After a few more minutes I managed to get over the cough and began to breathe normally again. I began to pick myself up from the ground. I placed my hand on my chest as I looked up at the ceiling."

Manuel: (Gasping for air) What....is going on.....?

"I grabbed device next to me and I held it up."

???: you must....remember....

"A distorted and distant voice is heard in my head as I stare down this strange device."

Manuel: (In trace) I must.....

"I stared more at the device and I continued to do so as I laid there on the floor my thumb then was about to press the button on this device but just then I heard voices from downstairs."

Angel: (From downstairs)  Hey! Manuel! You good?! We got to go now!

"As quickly as I was put into this trance of mine, I quickly broke out of it. I looked at the clock in the bedroom."

Manuel: Shit! We're gonna be late!

"I opened my bag and quickly put everything inside of it and I ran out of my room to join the other. As I got in the car I hide the fact that I was getting sick from Nakamura sensei and I stayed silent throughout the entire car ride until we made it to Swift Star Academy."

*Time: 7:20am*

-Play Persona F Spotify Playlist Track #33 - "Medical Intern"-

"Nakamura sensei had driven us to the front of the academy. Me and the others were met with a giant metal gate leading into the front main entrance. We slowly got out of the car as all three of us stare in awe towards the huge facility. Students were walking into the campus, left and right. Personally, I was taken aback."

*For the next two years this will be the school that we'll be attending for me, Anthony, and Angel. Staring at the front entrance, looking at all the new faces and the several glances that we got made me nervous to say at the very least. I gulped as I fixed my tie. Living somewhere else is one thing but starting high school overall in this new place makes my heart leap out of my chest. I know I'll just talk to the others I'm sure that they're-*

"As soon as I thought that, I see that both Angel and Anthony were nervous as well. Angel is smiling but sweating while staring at the gate while Anthony held his left arm with his right hand keeping himself from shaking. Nakamura seeing this just laugh this off."

Nakamura: (Smiles) Come on you three! Relax! Its just High School not the army!

Manuel: R-right umm (Clears throat) Lets take the tension off of us with a group photo everyone. This is the only first day of high school we are getting after all guys. (Takes out Smartphone)

Angel: Yeah you're right!

Anthony: Good idea Manuel!

Nakamura: Their mood just change quite a bit. (Looks inside car) Do you want to join them Isabella?

*Bella has never been the type to want to take photos so I doubt that she even-*

"Bella sighs as she takes off her headphones and gets out of the backseat of the car."

Isabella: Okay why not?

*......never mind then.....What's gotten into her?*

"Nakamura is in the back while Angel is to the left of me and Anthony is to the right of me. Isabella comes up and stands in front of me. All of our backs turned away from the entrance of the school. I still had my phone out but merely stared off into the distance as I was still caught off guard from Bella's unusual behavior. She looks at me."

Isabella: Do you want me to take the photo or..?

Manuel: (Snaps back) Oh no I got it!

"I put the camera into the selfie mode and I point it to all of us. We all gave a nice and genuine smile and I took the photo."

Manuel: That's a keeper alright.

Isabella: Cool...be sure to send that to Mom and Dad to tell them that I'm okay alright?

*Oh right....I promise to always fill them in during our time here to tell them that Isabella is alright*

Manuel: Okay. I'll do that sometime today. (Puts away Smartphone)

Nakamura: Alright now lets get you to school as well.

Isabella: Right.

Nakamura: See you guys at home later alright?

All three: Okay!

"Both Bella and James got into the car and we saw them drive off and now the three of us were left to our own devices now."

Anthony: Hey Angel! We should go to the faculty office real quick if we hope to get our school uniforms and get our class schedules.

Angel: Oh yeah we totally should!

"Angel And Anthony both began to walk into the campus grounds but I stopped them before they went off."

Manuel: Hey guys wait! I'll go with you.

Angel: Huh? But Manuel you already have both of your uniform and class schedule already. It wouldn't make any sense for you to go to the Faculty office.

Manuel: but...I don't want to be alone. You guys know how awkward I can get in places I don't know.

Anthony: Hmm what to do? (Ponders) We could go all together but we still don't know if we're in the same class as of yet. Plus we don't know if there's a line to the faculty office since most likely with this being the first day of school there's bound to be people who never gotten their schedules in the mail. Sorry Manuel we hate to leave you but we don't want you to be late to class because of us.

Manuel: (Sighs) I guess that makes sense....fine. You guys go on ahead I'll try to keep my head up.

Angel: Alright then off we go. C'mon Anthony!

Anthony: We'll see you later Manuel!

"Both Anthony and Angel run off. I was left there alone to my own devices."

Manuel: (Takes Deep breath) Well....no time like the present I guess...

-End Track-

*I began taking my first steps into the Academy...The first thing that caught my attention were the stares and looks that I received upon entering.*

Girl 1: Hey that's one of those guys who were hanging at the front of the school.

Girl 2: Really? Maybe they're the new transfer students that I heard about.

Girl 3: That makes sense. I heard that they came from a regular town called "Kochi".

Girl 2: No wonder they were all staring at the school for a while there. They must not be used to the size of the school yet.

Boy 1: Think that's one of them?

Boy 2: Yeah I'm pretty sure look how nervous he is.

Boy 1: Boy do I feel bad for him. Must be overwhelming for the guy.

Boy 2: Maybe...who knows?

*Looks like people already know about us. Hmm I wonder if this would complicate things...*

Cheerful Male Senior: Hey you're one of the new transfer students right?

Manuel: Huh?!

"Just like that I was ambushed by an older looking students holding flyers."

Cheerful Male Senior: Sorry I didn't mean to frighten you newbie.

Manuel: Umm that's alright. C-can I help you with anything?

Cheerful Male Senior: Nothing in particular, just wanted to give you this is all.

"My upperclassman hands me a flyer of a cooking club labeled with the time and dates of their meetings along with the classroom number."

Cheerful Male Senior: I know what its like being the new kid. Things can get hectic at first but when you get the hang of it; it'll be a breeze. Now I'm not gonna try to tell you to join the club but I do want to let you know that this is a perfect way to meet new people and make friends. Just a little food for thought, alright?

Manuel: Thank you senpai...I'll definitely think about it.

"I watched as the senior left to go talk to and hand flyers out to the other students. I looked at the flyer and put it into my bag."

*What a nice guy. Maybe this wouldn't be so bad-*

Loud female student: Hey hey you! You aren't considering the cooking club are you?!

*Of course just when I thought about it...*

Manuel: W-well I umm....

Loud female student: Forget that noise Mr. "transfer student"! Just join the Judo club if you're looking to make new friends!

Manuel: I don't know if that would be my cup of tea...

"As if they were spawning in like NPCs from a game. Two more students came to join the conversation."

Geeky Male student: Hey you! You want to join the chess club?

Energetic Female Student: Hey join our light music club! We provide with your very own instrument! Your choice from a guitar or bass!

Manuel: Well I don't really know how to pla-

Energetic Female Student: That's okay! We can teach you! We also have tea time in the music room! Our club is only made up of girls but I promise we're nice.

Geeky Male student: Hey wouldn't you rather be comfortable with a male group in a club? Us guys gotta stick together after all and what better way for us guys to bond than over chess?

Manuel: Well you see I'm not too interested in che-

"Next thing I noticed I was completely surrounded by dozens of Students all with flyers and banners for their own perspective clubs. I felt myself getting dizzy. I held my head with my left hand as I tried my best to keep myself from being overwhelmed by all of this unwanted attention."

Female voice: Hey! There you are! I've been looking all over for you! Come on already!

"I felt a soft hand meeting my right and then I was being pulled away from the crowd of people. We went away from the students. I allowed myself to be led due to the headache that I was feeling. Next thing I knew we were in a new area of the campus devoid from any sort of traffic."

"I was seated on a bench where I continued to hold my head in discomfort. All of the while I continued to hear a faint voice in my mind ringing out."

Female Voice: I think we should be safe here.

???: awak-.........i am here.......y**r hop-........accept tho-........sins.....per...

Manuel: What...?

Female Voice: Looks like you have a pretty bad headache.

"I heard ruffling through a bag of some kind. I was handed a pill of Tylenol and a bottle of water."

Female Voice: Take this...it usually helps me whenever I have as bad as a headache as yours.

Manuel: Thank you....(takes pill and water)

"Without looking up, I took the pill and water out of this person's hands. I popped the pill into my mouth and used the water to wash it down. I continued to chug the water. I decided to take a look to see who had rescued me from that situation. I took a glance and I saw a girl roughly about my age in the school uniform for the academy. I noticed how her face was close to mine. I pulled away and spit out the water. She panicked as she stepped away. I coughed up a bit of water as I'm trying to get myself together."

Female Student: Hey are you alright?!

Manuel: Y-yeah (Coughs) Sorry I was just taken by surpri-

-Play Persona F Spotify Playlist Track #166 - "friendly feelings"-

"For the first time, my eyes met this girl's. Her eyes were immediately the first thing I noticed. It had a glistening effect as the sunlight shined down on her. Her eyes were a light brown with a touch of green. Hazel perhaps. As my vision began to become more clear I see her medium length hair that reached just passed her shoulders. Her hair was a light brown with touches of blonde highlights. She had light pink tone lips as well. In this single meeting, I heard my heartbeat in my ear as I was completely mesmerized by her. Before I knew it my face glowed a bright red."

*Wow.....just wow....she's really beautiful....I can't focus my thoughts...Come on just say something!*

Beautiful Girl: Are you okay? Your face is all red.

Manuel: (Blushes) huh?! Sorry I just umm...I may be a little sick is why...

Beautiful Girl: Oh really?....I'm sorry I'll give you space...

"She begans to walk away. I immediately regained my senses right then and there."

Manuel: No wait!

Beautiful Girl: Huh?

Manuel: I'm not sick!

Beautiful Girl: But I thought you said-

Manuel: Yeah I know but umm you see I meant that I felt like I was with all of those people who were surrounding me.

Beautiful Girl: Oh Uhh..

*Please let that make sense.*

Beautiful Girl: I suppose that makes sense...

*Awesome! I recovered...okay just act like yourself. It's just a girl....though a very pretty girl...come on just keep the conversation flowing.*

Manuel: (Clears throat) Sorry about all of that. Everything just happened really quickly. (Sighs) My head is still spinning from it all.

Beautiful Girl: Yeah it was getting really bad. I was passing through and I noticed you were having a hard time even getting out a response. You know you should've said "No" to them.

Manuel: Yeah I know...I'm just kinda well....I'm not really a social butterfly. I often keep to myself when I'm somewhere where I don't know anyone or anything. So it's a tad hard for me to openly speak my mind ya know?

Beautiful Girl: Really? You say that but you're being pretty social right now.

Manuel: Yeah...I am. I guess that means that you're one of a kind! (nervously laughs)

Beautiful Girl: Huh?

Manuel: Oh shoot! Sorry if I said something offensive.

Beautiful Girl: No it's not that...just I'm not used to being called that by someone I just met.

Manuel: Well let this be the first...after all I've never gotten to talk this much with anyone else I just met before.

Beautiful Girl: Oh you're just saying that.

Manuel: No really I mean it! Like my two friends who transferred here with me for example. Sure me and my buddies are close now but it took them months to get me to even speak about anything! Then here you are. I mean look at you. You're not even talking right now. And I'm just going on and on and on here. I mean we just met and man if only my friends could see me right now they would probably tell me to shut the hell up before I make a fool of myself. I even told myself when coming over here to keep my head up and try to meet new people. So my friends told me to just be cool and you know what being "cool". What is that? Like do I have to be temperature cool or like cool "cool". So eventually I just said I'll try being myself because hey social standards get those out of here. But hey what do I know I just keep talking about things as much as possible until it gets awkward....it's getting awkward....isn't it?

Beautiful Girl: Just a bit yes...

Manuel: Yeah I thought so...

"We both looked at each other with straight faces until she began to break into laughter and I followed after."

Beautiful Girl: (Laughs) Oh my god you're so overly honest...

Manuel: (Laughs) I know I get like that when I'm nervous...

Beautiful Girl: (Laughs) why are you so nervous for?

Manuel: (Laughs) I don't know. Maybe it's because you totally saved my ass back there. And look at me I could've even mustered up the courage to deny them and now look at me going on and on about my life story as if you would want to hear that.

Beautiful Girl: (Giggles) I don't mind. If you haven't noticed I'm actually a good listener.

Manuel: (Chuckles) yeah you really are..(Clear throats) So who is my savior that I need to thank?

"I jokingly as for her name as I stood myself up from the bench. She regains her composure and looks me in the eyes."

Emi: Oh I'm sorry. My name is Emi Atsuo.

"She extended out her hand as I then extended mine out to shake hers. Then I pulled back from the hand shake."

Manuel: (Smiles) Emi Atsuo.....cute...

Emi: What was that?

Manuel: Y-your name it's really cute. (Smiles) It suits you.

Emi: (Blushes) Oh...thank you (Smiles)

Manuel: So "Emi" that sounds Japanese if I'm not mistaken.

Emi: Oh no it's actually supposed to be "Emy" with a "Y" but you know Japanese curriculum here in the states they changed the "Y" to an "I". I mean it is pronounced the same way so it doesn't make much of a difference.

Manuel: Hmm that's interesting...well since you introduced yourself only fitting to introduce myself to you. My name is Manuel Estrada but my friends at least sometimes call me "Manny".

Emi: I see. Well I don't know you well enough to call you "Manny" but it's nice to meet you Estrada-san.

Manuel: Yeah it's nice to meet you too Atsuo-San. (Looks at Emi's uniform) I'm guessing that you're starting high school as well. I see you're wearing an updated school uniform that freshman wear so I'm just assuming here.

Emi: Yeah actually I am. You're one of the transfer students that came from "Kochi" right?

Manuel: Man word sure spreads fast...don't suppose you know how that rumor started right?

Emi: Sorry but no...I heard some students talking about it as I was entering the Academy grounds and afterwards I saw you getting surrounded.

Manuel: (Jokingly) Miss Atsuo-san you truly are my hero!

Emi: (Laughs) Stop what if someone sees or hear you?

Manuel: It'll be fine. I'm just playing around of course. Making people laugh is one of my specialties.

Emi: What's another specialty about you then?

Manuel: Well that's obvious couldn't you tell before? (Chuckles) Well I guess I have no choice in the matter. While this may be hard to believe the truth will shock you. Please take a seat Miss Atsuo-san.

"Going along with the joke, Emi does take a seat on the bench with me."

Manuel: The sad but harsh truth that there is Atsuo-san. I am in fact. A GAMER.

Emi: (Dramatically Gasps) Say it isn't so Estrada-San!

Manuel: Yes it is but the truth and by definition that makes me a Grade A nerd.

Emi: (Dramatically Gasps) Oh my god! The betrayal Estrada-san! The betrayal!

Manuel: (Sighs) It is...the way things are...

"We both glanced at each other and we both laughed at how far we took this whole joke."

Manuel: (Laughs) oh my god you're freaking awesome! You know that right? I mean I didn't expect you to play along but those gasps that you did. God I almost broke down laughing the first time you did it.

Emi: (Laughs) You were so dramatic with that whole joke so it felt appropriate to react like that.

Manuel: Man...class hasn't started yet and it's already been crazy start to the day. But seriously thank you for what you did back there. I would've been a goner without you.

Emi: Like I said it's not a problem.

Manuel: So what's your story? You already know about me and my friends being transfer students so I think it's only fair if you tell me a bit about yourself.

Emi: Well like you I'm just starting high school. I'm studying so I can one day become a nurse.

Manuel: No way really? Looks like we're going to go into the same field of work then.

Emi: You want to be a nurse too?

Manuel: No not a nurse. I want to become a doctor one day.

Emi: ooh thats a pretty big deal. What made you decide on that as a career?

Manuel: Hmm well if I'm gonna be honest here and promise me you won't laugh.

Emi: I promise.

Manuel: (Looks up to the sky) Seven years ago I was caught in a really bad accident and I was admitted into a hospital for surgery. Though my memories from back then is hazy I remember how scared I felt through the brief flashes that I got from back then. When I woke-

-End Track-

-Play Persona F Spotify Playlist Track #30- "僕と俺"-

*Seven years ago*

"I woke up to an empty hospital room. I felt a little bit of pain as I tried to sit up on the bed. Just then a Doctor came into the room."

Doctor: Manuel-san! (Rushes over to the bed) You shouldn't move right now. Your stitches will break if you move too much.

Young Manuel: ............

"Either phased by my near death experience or in a lot of pain my eyes were devoid of any life and i couldn't say a single word. So I laid back down as I stared at the ceiling."

Doctor: You've been through a lot....I'm sorry that this happened to you...

Young Manuel:............

Doctor: You will have to stay here until your wounds have completely healed. Don't worry Manuel-san before you leave here I promise to give you back your smile. Until then....

"The doctor reached into his pocket and pulled out a small handheld console. He gives it to me."

Doctor: Games always made me feel better when I was young so I know that this should make you feel better as well. I'll give you some space to rest now.

"I hear as the Doctor leaves and closes the door behind him. I stared at the Console and a slight smile formed on my face."

*Back to the Present*

-End Track-

Manuel: After I made a full recovery, I always wanted to be doctor and playing games always helped me remembered how that Doctor was kind to me and to keep working towards that dream. Playing games make me feel better about things. (Looks at Video games patches on Bag) It makes me happy...(Smiles)

"I look over to Emi and I see that she was staring at me in a very concerned way."

Manuel: Sorry I'm babbling again.

Emi: No no I just....I'm surprised is all. You've been through a lot Huh? I could really relate to that...Personally I've been in and out of the hospital. The nurses there have been really helpful and kind. I really wish to do the same for others one day.

Manuel: (Smiles) That's really nice. You're a good person Atsuo-san.

Emi: Thank you....(Checks Watch) Oh shoot it's almost time for Homeroom.

Manuel: Has that much time passed? I guess I should get going too. Hey Atsuo-san thanks for the talk.

Emi: (Smiles) Don't mention it. I like talking with you too.

Manuel: Umm maybe you would be interested in talking some more sometime soon?

Emi: uhhh well....(smiles) Yeah...yeah actually. I would like that very much.

Manuel: Cool...do you want to exchange Chat IDs and numbers?

Emi: (Smiles) Of course...

"We take out our phones and exchanged numbers and Chat IDs. After saving them on our phones we both got up from the bench."

Manuel: I'll be sure to text you later then. Have a good day Atsuo-san.

Emi: You too Estrada-san.

"I watch as Emi leaves for her class while I couldn't help but smile to myself."

Manuel: She's really nice. I hope we could become friends sometime soon. Now I should really-

"A gust of wind brushes pass me as I realized that I forgotten something important."

Manuel: I DON'T KNOW WHAT BUILDING IS MY HOMEROOM IN!!!

*Time: 8:10am*

"I was running down the hallway as I make my way to my Homeroom. I took out my class schedule out of my bag and I reviewed it just one last time before I walked in."

Manuel: Room 12A in building D. (Sighs in relief) Finally found it...okay you're a bit late but no problem you're new here so they'll cut you some slack.

*I grabbed the door handle and stood there in place. I began to worry about Anthony and Angel and if they had similar issues like I did. Oh well not really much I can do here. Well....here going nothing.*

"I opened the sliding door to the classroom and was immediately greeted to dozens of students who were seated looking at me along with the teacher. A bunch of chatter began as I walked in and closed the door behind me. The teacher adjusted his glasses as he began talking to me."

Homeroom Teacher: So you must be one of the new transfer students from "Kochi".

Manuel: (Nods) Yes sir. Sorry I'm late sir.

Random female student 1: What that's him?

Random female student 2: I heard all three transfer students knew each other. Think they're friends?

Random male student 1: Making a late entrance? On his first day?

Random male student 2: He probably got lost.

Random male student 3: (Laughs) I bet I was lost for a good while too.

Homeroom Teacher: Alright! All of you settle down. This student is one of three transfer students who came here from a small town "Kochi".

Random male student 4: He came from all the way there? That's two states away by the bullet train.

Random female student 3: He must've been shipped out of that small town.

Random female student 4: How do you figure..?

Random female student 3: That town is known to be a more rural area is maybe there's not really much in terms of High Schools over there.

*They're not exactly wrong...Kochi had always been a small but a very well kept town with only few places to go to in terms of schooling.*

Homeroom Teacher: Anyways he's new here in Seito City and this academy so please be kind to him and show him the ropes if anyone can. Now if you have anything to add Mr....(Looks at seating roster) Estrada?

Manuel: Yes. My name is Manuel Estrada. I'm 15. I came here from Kochi as many of you may of known and yeah...It's nice to meet all of you and I hope we can all get along together! (Bows)

"Chattering filled the room as I raised my head up and stared back to the class. The Homeroom teacher looks at his clipboard once again."

Homeroom Teacher: Let's see here...you can sit over there. Last seat right next to the window over there.

Manuel: Yes. Thank you.

"I made my way to my assigned seat all of the while I kept getting glances and weird looks as I passed by several students. I eventually got to my seat which had a nice view of the courtyard. I put my bag down and seated myself. As the Teacher went on about the class and morning announcements I took this opportunity to look around the classroom in hopes to see Angel or Anthony. I scanned the room slowly but saw no sight of them."

*Of course we wouldn't have Homeroom together...I don't even see Emi either. That's disappointing...I guess I'm all alone in this...maybe if I'm lucky I could meet someone as kind as Emi...huh?*

"As I looked towards a certain direction I see a blue haired girl looking towards my direction. She was clearly shooting daggers at me. I quickly faced forward and avoiding eye contact with her."

*No way is that death stare meant for me? I didn't even do anything...no maybe I'm imagining it...she must be looking at someone else....I'm sure if I look over her direction again she won't be looking at me-*

"I look over her direction again and sure enough she was staring at me with a mixture of both anger and annoyance. She then looks forward moving her eyes away from me."

*She totally was! She's kinda scary. I should try my best to avoid her...I don't want to cause any trouble...*

"After Homeroom was over, I grabbed my stuff and attempted to walk out of the classroom but then noticed two other students who were still seated."

*Guess they must have the same next period class...*

"I looked around and it seemed like these two weren't as sociable as the other students were as there were conversations going around all around me."

*Should I talk to them...? They seem easy enough people to make some light conversation. Less people the better for my anxiety...plus maybe they know where my next class could be...*

"I was about to walk over to the two students but I stopped in my tracks as the blue haired girl from earlier stepped right in front of me."

Blue hair girl: What are you doing..?

Manuel: Huh? What do you mean...?

"The girl looks behind her and sees the other two students who I was going to talk to. She looks back at me."

Blue hair girl: You were gonna talk to them weren't you?

Manuel: Well I umm-

Blue hair girl: It's not a good idea to do that. You and your friends already have a bunch of rumors spreading about you around the school already. Those two have many different rumors that's been spreading about them since grade school. They're bad eggs...it's best to keep your distance...

"She looked sternly towards me as I was taken aback by the things she was saying."

*I can't believe this? Are awful things being said about me and the others? How could this have happened...Are those two having horrible things said about them as well..? If that's the case then...*

Manuel: I'll...(Looks at two students)....take my chances....(bows)

"I walked passed the girl as she stares at me. I walked over to the two students and tried my hardest to start a conversation."

Manuel: Umm excuse me....

"Both of the students looked towards my direction with surprised expression upon their faces."

"The two looked up from their phones and gave me curious looks. The boy stayed silent as if studying me. While the girl in the ponytail squinted at me looking as if she couldn't see me."

Blond Hair Girl: (Squinting eyes) Who are you?

Manuel: Hi I'm Manuel Estrada. I just transferred here I'm wondering if you know where I could find room 27B in this building?

Blond Hair Girl: Okay? Why don't you ask a teacher?

Manuel: Sorry I just felt more comfortable asking a fellow classmate than a teacher.

Blond Hair Girl: Is that right? Well you could get lost! I'm not helping you...(Looks back at phone)

Manuel: (Downcasts) Oh....umm okay so sorry to bother you miss....

"I could feel her eyes on me as I began to walk away. She then stands up from her seat."

Blond Hair Girl: Wait!

Manuel: (Turns around) Y-yes?

Blond Hair Girl: Look...I'm sorry. I feel bad for how I spoke to you. I'm not really used to people just walking up to me...

Manuel: Its okay. I get it. Its just a lot of rumors are being spread about me and my friends and I don't really feel comfortable talking with the other students...

Blond Hair Girl: Yeah I know....rumors they just suck-

Black Hair Guy: They suck...right?

"I looked pass the girl I was talking to and see the guy chiming into the conversation. He gets up from his seat and bows very formally before lifting his head back up."

Makoto: My name is Makoto Shinjo. Its a pleasure to meet you...(Lifts up head) Like you I just started High School as well.

Manuel: (Bows to Makoto) Its a pleasure to meet you as well. Both of you. (Bows to girl) My name is Manuel Estrada. I'm one of the transfer students that just arrived here yesterday.

Anri: (Bows) My name is Anri Shinozuka. I just started High School as well. Listen you probably shouldn't be talking to us.

Manuel: Oh...If I bother you...I could always just leave you be...

Anri: No that's not it....Haven't you heard the rumors about us?

Makoto: Its not really safe for you to try and become our friend...

Manuel: Honestly I feel like me and my friends are in the same boat right now. Even now I'm getting looks left and right. You two were the only ones who didn't really look at me the same way they did. Strangely I felt more comfortable with talking to you guys more than other students...

Makoto: I see looks like we're the three outcasts here...

Anri: Yeah you're right Nya-....Shinjo-san...

Manuel: I don't care about any rumors about you two nor would I believe them. I'm new to everything here and already rumors are going left to right and I'm separated from my friends....We don't have to be friends but....I would like to talk with you two some more if I'm able to in the near future.

Anri: Why us...?

Manuel: Call me a weirdo but I like to think that I have a good judge of character and neither of you two don't seem like the type to hurt me for the fun of it or to even spread more rumors about me. You two just seem like people I could relate to more than anyone here.

Makoto: I see...Okay I will be okay if you want to talk sometime again.

Anri: A-as will I!

Manuel: (Smiles) Thank you...

Anri: Room 27B should be at the ground level of this building right next to the Infirmary which has a red cross on the door so there no way to miss it.

Manuel: Wow thank you so much Shinozuka-san! Shinjo-san.

Anri: Don't worry about it...sorry again for yelling at you...

Manuel: (Shakes head) Don't worry about it...Already forgiven you....Thank you so much once again. Well see you guys later and good luck with your own classes alright?

Makoto: Likewise. (Bows)

Anri: Thanks.

*Like that I was off to my next class. Although the rumors started to get even more worse about me, Anthony, and Angel as the day goes on. Throughout the day I began to ask my teachers about where certain classes were since I still don't know the layout of the school just yet. We eventually got to lunchbreak and while I was trying my best to find them there was no sign of Angel or Anthony. I tried texting them a couple of times to no response left. Looks like I was gonna have to spend lunch alone. I scrolled down my contact list to see Atsuo-san's name. I thought about texting her to meet up but I didn't want to bother her. I went to the café to sit down and eat my bento box lunch. There were a lot of students here but I didn't bother to try to sit with anyone. I sat down on a empty table where I opened my box lunch and began eating. Afterwards, I went about my day until the final class of the day.*

*Time: 3:00pm*

"I was walking out on the campus grounds towards the gate as I then heard two familiar voices calling out for me."

Angel: Manuel!!

Anthony: Hey there you are!

"I turned around to see both Angel and Anthony running towards me from different directions."

Manuel: Guys!

Angel: Tony. Manuel. Its so great to see you guys!

Anthony: Yeah no kidding! Today has been a pain.

Manuel: You guys too huh?

Angel: Dude what the hell? What are some of these rumors going on about us?

Anthony: I heard that people were talking about us being good for nothing students back at Kochi and how we were shipped out to Seito City as punishment.

Angel: Funny...I heard one where we supposedly had criminal records and we're on probation...

Manuel: Geez I never thought people would make up stuff like that. Its only been a day...could we last like this for two whole years?

Angel: (Scratches head) whatever man we don't need them. We got each other!

Anthony: True as long as we stick together we'll be fine.

"I look over to the school's buildings."

Manuel: Still though rumors aside this school is a maze in out of itself.

Angel: Yeah and plus certain buildings doesn't give good reception. I only just barely saw your guy's text messages.

Anthony: Well....I saw that too...Ya know since we got some time right now we should look around the school to get familiar with the layout.

Angel: Yeah We definitely should!

Manuel: I like that plan! Let's do it!

-Play Persona F Spotify Playlist Track #25- "狂気の叫び"-

"Angel and Anthony ran ahead but just as I was about to run after them. I felt my chest grew heavy. I began to cough intensely as I fell to the ground. I continued to cough up as if something was caught in my throat trying to get out. I rolled onto my back as the cough ceased and it was getting hard to breathe. Soon I began to gather a crowd of students wondering what was happening. Angel and Anthony turned around as they see that I had a hard time trying to catch my breath."

Angel: Manuel!!

"Both Angel and Anthony broke through the crowd as I was wheezing. I had a sharp pain in my chest. I clenched my chest in reaction to this."

Anthony: Hey get a hold of yourself!

Angel: Let's take him the School's infirmary!

Anthony: Do we even know where that is?!

Angel: We'll carry him all throughout the school if we must!

"Both Angel and Anthony got me up holding me by the arms and they began carrying me to the infirmary all while the students were all chattering and staring. Angel who was completely livid towards his classmates yelled out for them to move."

Angel: (Screams) WOULD YOU ALL MOVE THE FUCK OUT OF THE WAY?!?! INSTEAD OF JUST STARING, SOMEONE JUST HELP US ALREADY!!!

"Angel's loud voice got through and a path opened up in between the crowd. A male student ran up to Angel."

Concerned Student: I know where the infirmary is! I can show you!

Anthony: Well led us then!!

Angel: Come on let's go!!!

Concerned Student: R-right!!

"The male student runs into the building as Angel and Anthony quickly followed after him. They moved inside one of the buildings and in that split second before I passed out I saw the Blue haired girl from my Homeroom along with a pink haired girl. Immediately after seeing them I fell unconscious."

-End Track-

*Time: 6:10pm*

"I slowly began to wake up. I sat up on the bed. I look outside to see that it was already dark outside. I held my head up."

Manuel: Just....where am I?

"I look over to my left and see a Nurse seated on a rolling chair with her back turned to me. She got up and walked over to me."

Nurse: I see that you're awake now...

Manuel: Sensei...where am I..?

Nurse: You're in the infirmary.....You're two friends Venegas-san and Date-san brought you here.

Manuel: Really? I see.....(Softly smiles)

Nurse: I need to check some things before I could let you go. (Grabs stethoscope from nearby table) Are you okay with that?

Manuel: Yes of course. Please do Sensei...

"I stood still as a statue as the Nurse went ahead and checked my heart beat. She then went on to tell me what happened earlier."

Nurse: Your friends are really something else...they rushed you in here and stayed here for a good 2 hours before I convinced them to go back home. They were really worried.

Manuel: Wow that's really amazing of them...

"The nurse then checks my back with her stethoscope."

Nurse: Okay breathe in.

Manuel: (Inhales)

Nurse: Breathe out.

Manuel: (Exhales)

"The nurse then puts her stethoscope around her neck and looks at me."

Nurse: Well you seem to be okay now. The only conclusion I can come up with is that you had some thing of attack. Do you by chance have asthma?

Manuel: Umm no not to my knowledge no...

Nurse: Hmm you should probably go see a doctor about that. After all I don't think you want to have another attack like that. Other than that, you seem to be abnormally fine. Your heartbeat is good, so is your breathing, no sign of physical injuries, just nothing that I can tell would be wrong with you.

Manuel: I see...I'll be sure to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Nurse: Are you sure that you're okay to walk? Do you need me to talk your Guardian?

Manuel: No. Thank you sensei for everything.

Nurse: No need for thanks. You should give your four friends a call since they were really worried about you.

Manuel: (Gets up from Bed) Four? I only have two friends...

Nurse: Strange shortly after your two male friends left. Two of your female friends came in and asked how you were doing. Started to ask really weird questions. (Walks back to desk)

Manuel: Hmm I see...

*Who could've they been..? Emi..? No I don't think she was around at the time. Plus there was another person. Another girl....could it be Shinozuka..? No neither I have even a remote relationship with either one...I can't think of anyone else though....Just what is going on...?*

"I shook my head to get my focus straight. For a second my view became blurry but then it stopped as soon as it came. I got out of bed and looked around for my bag. The nurse looks at me."

Nurse: If you're looking for your bag...your male friends took it with them.

Manuel: Oh okay...well with that I'll be leaving..

Nurse: Are you sure that you don't want me to call someone?

Manuel: No it's fine...I can make it home on my own. Besides I also have my phone on me.

"I dug into my pockets to check for my phone. I pulled it out and showed it to the Nurse to reassure her. I began to take my leave as I put my phone in my pocket."

Manuel: Thank you Sensei...

Nurse: (Smiles) Be safe out there on your way home okay?

*I opened the sliding door, exited the room, turned around and bowed to her and I closed the door behind me. I began walking down the hallway and my mind began to wander. Thinking about all the different things that had occurred. The dream I had on the train, the strange device, this cough that I've been having, the attacks I've been having. Nothing makes any sense...*

-Play Persona F Spotify Playlist Track #177- "reconciliation"-

"I walked outside of the building making my way towards the School gates which was still open surprising. I passed the gates and got onto the sidewalk just outside the school grounds. I took out my phone and input the directions to Nakamura's House and only see that its a short fifteen minute walk if I start right now. I put down my phone and looked around. To my surprise, I saw Emi standing there on her phone while leaning against the gate. I pocketed my phone and walked over towards her."

Manuel: Atsuo-san.

Emi: Huh? (Looks up from Phone) Estrada-san?

Manuel: Hey. What are you still doing here at this time?

Emi: I could ask the same to you.

Manuel: Oh well...I was held back for some things...(Scratches back of Head)

Emi: Oh I see. So was I. I was getting information and different forms for programs that I'm trying to get into following my choice of career. I spent so much time talking to different teachers that I lost track of things and its this late already.

Manuel: Okay I get it. So are you waiting for a ride or something?

Emi: Yeah but unfortunately my family is pretty busy with things and I have to wait at least another forty minutes or so.

Manuel: Oh no...Well can't you just walk home then? Is your house that far?

Emi: No its about 20 minutes to get there if I walk but first I would have to go to the train station, wait for my train and then walk the rest of the way. Since I live in a completely different district my family doesn't really find it safe for me to walk home especially since its already dark.

Manuel: Hmm I see...

Emi: Are you going home right now Estrada-san?

Manuel: Yeah that was the plan for the most part.

Emi: Oh okay be safe and maybe I'll see you tomorrow.

Manuel: Yeah...

"I turned around and began walking away but I stopped in my tracks as I thought about it. I turned back around to walk over to Emi."

Manuel: Hey listen. I know this might be weird to offer since we just met and all but umm....Do you want me to walk with you to your house?

Emi: Huh? Oh no I couldn't ask you to do. I'm fine waiting for my family.

Manuel: Normally I would accept that as an answer but its really dark out here and while I know that I'm new to the city and everything there's no telling what kind of random creep could pop out from a corner. Plus its a little cold during the night don't you think?

Emi: It kind of is actually...but still you don't have to you know?

Manuel: I mean I know that I don't have to but I want to. I'm just a bit worried for your safety is all. (Smiles) Come on you saved me earlier today so let me be your Knight in shining armor now. Its the least I can do. (Chuckles)

Emi: (Giggles) Alright you got me. Just let me text my parents first.

Manuel: Yeah of course.

"I looked around the area to make sure it was safe while Emi went on her phone to text her parents. After she sent the message and got responses back, she put away her phone and looked over towards me."

Emi: Okay my family is okay with it. Shall we get going?

Manuel: Yes your majesty. (Bows)

Emi: (Laughs) You dork! (Shoves Manuel playfully) So how was your first day of classes today?

Manuel: It was....interesting to say at the very least. Okay so first what happened from this morning after we parted ways I realized I still didn't know where my homeroom was.

Emi: Wait really?

Manuel: Yeah so after that I-

"We talked all while we were walking to the station and even more so on the train. We talked about our experiences today while Emi's was more than normal mine was more than bizarre. Not wanting to scare her in anyway I decided to leave out the part of my little episode that happened after school was over. I didn't want her to worry. It was clear as day she felt bad for having me walk her home she would probably feel even worst if I told her about my attack. Eventually the train had made it to her stop, we got off the train and our conversation continued until we were in her Neighborhood."

-End Track-

*Time: 6:30pm*

Emi: I still can't believe those rumors that are spreading about you...

Manuel: Yeah it definitely made me feel a bit lonely today.

Emi: Still though people shouldn't judge you like that before getting to know you. You're actually really nice.

Manuel: Aww Madam I'm flattered. (Laughs)

Emi: (Laughs) I'm being serious here. I thought I was gonna go into High school the first day without talking to anyone but after talking to you I slowly got out of my shell and talk with the other students in my class.

Manuel: I'm sure you would've been fine without me. Give yourself more credit.

Emi: You know...if you would've texted me during lunch I would've been able to join you.

Manuel: (Blushes) Really? I'll...be sure to remember that for next time. (Smiles)

"Both of us stayed in silence for a moment before I decided to continue the conversation during our walk."

Manuel: So Atsuo-san have you lived here your whole life?

Emi: Pretty much we moved around the city a couple of times but we've stay in a relatively in the same area.

Manuel: Must be nice...

Emi: What about you?

Manuel: I lived in a small town called "Kochi" its nothing too big about it. Everything is close by, people always knew each other and yeah that's about it. Me and my friends Angel and Anthony actually grew up together there.

Emi: No kidding.

Manuel: Yeah ever since pre-school we've been inseparable. I'm honestly surprised when they decided to transfer over here with me.

Emi: They did that?

Manuel: Yeah I didn't even know until yesterday when they had their luggage and barely jumped onto the train before it left the station. They kept on telling me that High School wouldn't be the same without me.

Emi: That's amazing I can't imagine anyone else in my life doing that for me. They must really look up to you.

Manuel: (Smiles) Yeah....I guess so....

"I take out my phone and showed Emi the picture that I had took earlier in the day while we were walking to her house."

Manuel: These two in the left and right of me are Angel and Anthony, the guy in the back is my guardian and the one in front of me is my little sister Isabella but we call her "Bella" for short.

Emi: Awww you guys look really close.

Manuel: Yeah..."close" (Pockets phone)

Emi: Oh hey we're here.

"I look to see the Atsuo residence. I stood back to watch Emi going into her front yard of her house. I began to start walking back but as I was Emi stopped me in my track."

Emi: Hey wait!

Manuel: Huh? (Turns around) What's up?

Emi: Why are leaving without saying "Goodbye"?

Manuel: Sorry I saw that you were walking to your door so I figured that you just wanted to go in already.

Emi: Not without saying "Goodbye" at the very least. Are you sure that I can't offer you anything like Water or Coffee or something...?

Manuel: That's kind of you but I'm okay. Thanks for the offer though.

Emi: Oh okay...

Manuel: Well...I'll see you tomorrow Atsuo-san. (Waves)

Emi: Yeah...

"I began to walk away but Emi stopped me one more time."

Emi: Umm Estrada-san?

Manuel: (Turns around) Yeah?

Emi: I think that you're a good person too Estrada-san. (Smiles and Blushes)

"I instantly turned red in the face as I quickly smiled towards Emi."

Manuel: Have a goodnight and see you at school tomorrow! If you want we can have lunch together tomorrow at the same place as we talked this morning!

Emi: Yes of course! It's a date!

"I smiled as I ran back towards the station while waving back to Emi."

*I needed to get home to tell the others that I was okay. Little did I know fate had something else in store for me that night.*

-End Track-

*Third-person POV*

"From afar two females seen in Swift Star Academy uniforms are seen watching Manuel."

Blue-haired Girl: This is strange the virus would usually already fully affect someone by right now...

Pink-haired Girl: He had an attack though just like all the other victims...so why isn't his body failing?

Blue-haired Girl: I don't know....right now he's going back to sensei's home. He texted me earlier that he's gonna take him to the hospital when he gets home and for us to be on standby to perform the surgery just in case if he is infected.

Pink-haired Girl: Do you really think we can do this without our leader...?

Blue-haired Girl:.......we're....gonna have to....for now let's go home and rest....We might be in for it tomorrow...

"The pair who were watching Manuel from afar walk off in the opposite direction as Manuel disappearing off in the distance. Time has passed."

Time: 7:20pm

"I knock on the front door of Nakamura's house waiting for someone to come and open the door."

Manuel: (To himself) Man I got lost at the station and ended up getting onto the wrong train I really should ask for Nakamura to make me a key. I hope he's not mad for me staying out this late. He did mention that he doesn't mind but so much happened I forgot to text him. Hope he's not mad...

"Just as I thought that James opened the door."

Nakamura: WHERE THE HELL HAVE YOU BEEN?!

Manuel: (Shocked) Oh boy he actually is...

Nakamura: GET IN HERE!!

Manuel: Hey!

"James grabbed me by the collar and pulled me inside as he slammed the front door. He lets me go and looks outside of the window. All the lights in the house were off at least the ones downstairs were off and the only thing that gave the room any sort of light was the television which was playing the news. I fixed my collar as I looked at him very concerned."

Manuel: (Concerned) Nakamura-sensei..? Are you okay...?

"He downcasts and lets out a loud sigh. He then turned around and looked at me with serious eyes."

Nakamura: How long...?

Manuel: what..?

Nakamura: HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN SICK?!?!

"James then got into my face as I became extremely anxious towards his actions. I started to shake."

Manuel: I don't know! It's just a cough though. I mean sure I had a attack earlier but I'm better now!!!

Nakamura: Have you been attacked by someone?!?!

"He grabbed me by the shoulders and started to shake me."

Manuel: What no?!?!

Nakamura: Has anyone suspicious been following you around?!?!

Manuel: Sensei...you're scaring me...

"James lets go of me and began pacing around the room."

Nakamura: (To himself) How could this have happened...? This can't be happening again...no but if no one followed or attacked him then-

"I stood there in silence as James was pacing he stopped in place and looked over my way."

Nakamura: No you didn't...

Manuel: I didn't what?

"James speed walks over to the dining table which was on the other side of the room. There on the table was my school bag he opened all the zippers and emptied out everything on the table and then he started to shuffle everything around until he found the strange device I found from this morning. He lifted it up in shock as he then runs over to me and grabs me by my shirt."

Nakamura: WHERE DID YOU GET THIS?!?! (Holds up device)

Manuel: (Shakes head) I don't know! I don't even know what that is!

Nakamura: DID YOU GET THIS FROM MY ROOM?!?!

Manuel: No sir I didn't I swear!!

"James then throws the device to the ground and runs upstairs."

*Third-person POV*

"James runs to the second floor and as he got to the top he sees Angel, Anthony and Isabella peeking out of their rooms to see what was the commotion."

Angel: Hey what's with all the yelling?

Anthony: Is everything okay?

Isabella: What's going on?

Nakamura: Everyone stay in your rooms and close the doors now!!!!

"He rushes into his room and opens his closet revealing a safe with a digital lock. He puts in a eight digit code and opens it up. He grabs a giant black case. He lays it onto his bed and looks at its contents revealing three of the same devices that Manuel has in his possession."

Nakamura: How the hell?! THEY'RE ALL HERE?!?! Then where did he.....? Manuel!!!

"He closes the case and puts it back into his safe and locks it. He runs back downstairs to the living room and sees Manuel staring at the television completely motionless. James takes a breath and slowly walks up to Manuel."

Nakamura: Look...Manuel I know that I came about that pretty strongly but I want you to know that there is a completely logical reason for why...

"Manuel stayed motionless."

Nakamura: Manuel...? What are you....?

Manuel: it's him.....

"James looks at the television which was left on the news showing a local driver who had recently died in a fatal accident due to an unknown medical attack he suffered while behind the wheel. Manuel begins to hyperventilate as he takes a few steps back."

Manuel: (Hyperventilating) He was sick....he was coughing....I shook his hand when he dropped us off yesterday....! Did whatever he had transfer over to me when I did that?!?!

Nakamura: Manuel calm down...! Please....!

"Manuel breathing became rapid as he began to become pale in his face. To say that he was scared was an understatement. James looks at the floor to see that the device was no longer on the ground. He looks at Manuel who was holding it in the palm of his hands."

Nakamura: Manuel....put that down....

Manuel: Whats gonna happen to me?!?!

Nakamura: Manuel! Don't squeeze too much on that Gashat you're gonna press the button!!!

Manuel: Am...I dying...?!?! (Presses button on device)

"Just then Manuel's body began to glitch."

Manuel: (Eyes widen) I....feel so cold....

"Manuel falls unconscious to the floor and drops the device. James drops to his knees checking on Manuel in a panic."

Nakamura: MANUEL? MANUEL!!! (Yells to the others upstairs) ANGEL! ANTHONY!! ISABELLA!!! CALL AN AMBULANCE!!! (Moves focus back to the motionless Manuel) Manuel!! Come on stay with me!!! Please open your eyes!!! Manuel! MANUEL!!!!!

SEE YOU NEXT GAME