Archive of Our Own

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It was a calm evening in Yongen-Jaya…
A small wooden closed sign hung on Café Leblanc’s door.
Inside, Sojiro Sakura hummed lightly to himself as he finished up cleaning dishes.

”GAHHH!!!”
A sudden scream bellowed out from Leblanc’s attic.
Sojiro jumped and gripped his chest as his heart leapt. “What in the name of-?!” He cried out.

”GET HIM REN! GET HIM!”
”I’M TRYING!”

Upstairs, Ryuji and Ren frantically mashed buttons on their controllers.

”AH CRAP! I’M DOWN!” Ryuji yelled.

On Ren’s small TV, a man in yellow spandex lay hunched on the ground, wounded. Across the screen, a hulking humanoid lion roared with laughter while shooting thunderbolts from a claymore. A man in red spandex ran up and crouched next to his yellow clad comrade with a med kit. As the hero in red fiddled with bandages a progress bar gradually started to fill.

“WATCH IT!” Ryuji cried out.
“WHOA!” Ren gripped his controller tightly while flicking the joystick. He narrowly darted his character out of the way as the boss sent an onslaught of thunderbolts their way.

Ryuji winced. A single touch from one of those thunderbolts would mean the end for Feather Owl. And worse still, he and Ren would probably have to redo the boss from scratch.

“GET ME UP! GET ME UP! QUICK! QUICK!”
”HANG ON! HANG ON! I GOTCHA! I GOTCHA!”

Both boys yelled as Ren’s character darted left and right, up and down, successfully dodging the boss’s attacks as he went. Was it Ren’s gamer skills or pure panic? Most likely both, not that either boy cared which it was at this moment, as long as they survived!
At long last, there was a small ping sound as the progress bar became full. Feather Hawk reached out, took hold of Feather Owl’s hand and helped him to his feet.

”OKAY WE GOT THIS!” Ryuji shouted. “HIS HEALTH IS LOW SO WE JUST GOTTA BRING IT!”
”NO TIME FOR HESITATION! LET’S GO FOR IT!” Ren called out.

Ryuji and Ren slammed on their controller buttons as they had their Feathermen rush at the boss.
”IT’S OVER! GET WRECKED!” Ryuji and Ren yelled in unison.

Together they cornered the boss and unleashed a myriad of punches, jabs and shots from their blasters. For a moment, the boss froze with a comical wince on its face. Then its face contorted as it screamed. Its pixels blurred and flashed. Then the lion monster collapsed. He waved a white flag while sporting a crossed bandage on its forehead.
Feather Owl and Feather Hawk posed triumphantly with explosions erupting behind them.

”YES!” Ryuji and Ren leaped up and exclaimed.

A sudden loud bang from downstairs cut their celebration short.
Ryuji and Ren shrieked. Startled, they grabbed hold of each other as they whirled around.
The sound of thunderous footsteps echoed toward the attic.

A moment later, Sojiro appeared at the top of the stairs.
“FOR THE LOVE OF-What in blazes are you two doing up here?!”

Ryuji and Ren blinked. Ryuji’s eyes darted from Ren to Sojiro then back to Ren. At the same time, he felt Ren’s eyes zero in on him. The look was soft but anxious. The realization gradually crept over Ryuji like a shadow. They were still holding each other. In a flash, Ryuji’s hands were off of Ren.

“N-NOTHING!” he stammered while waving his arms.
“WE WEREN’T DOING ANYTHING, SOJIRO- I MEAN SIR- I MEAN BOSS!”

Ryuji’s face flushed and to make matters worse Ren was still looking at him. Ryuji could have sworn something had changed in Ren’s expression but he couldn’t fathom what it was.

One way or another, it probably didn’t matter, as the next moment Ren had turned his attention toward Sojiro.

“I’m sorry,” he said gently with concern. “Were we being too loud?”

With a heavy sigh Sojiro’s anger fizzled instantly.
“I’ll say.” He huffed.
You boys nearly gave me a heartattack.”
“Ah that’s our bad, Boss.” Ryuji said while scratching his head.
“Also ahh what was that loud noise just now?”

“Ah well, you two spooked me as I was trying to finish cleaning. One of the chairs toppled over and brought the other chairs down with it in. I hadn’t exactly planned on playing dominos tonight.” Sojiro’s brow furrowed slightly.
“Sorry,” Ren uttered. “I’ll take care of it.”

“And I’ll help too.” Ryuji said. “It’s both our faults.”
Sojiro smiled softly. “I appreciate it. Don’t think too much about it. I know you boys were just having fun.”
He glanced at his watch. “Well, I better get going. I’ll end up getting an earful from Futaba if I’m late for dinner.”

“Is it that late already?!” Ryuji blurted.

“Well, time flies when you’re having fun.” Sojiro chuckled.

“You know, Ryuji, you’re more than welcome to stay over if you want.”

Ren’s eyes went wide.
“He can?” Ren chimed.
“I can?!” Ryuji gasped.

“Sure!” Sojiro replied. “Just try not to wake up the neighborhood.”

He abruptly halted as he started to make his way down the stairs.

“Oh and make sure to take care of those chairs for me. Good night!”

And with that Sojiro left Ryuji and Ren alone in the attic.

They stared at each other in silence and for both boys, that passing moment felt like an eternity.
“So, what do you think?” Ren finally asked. “About staying over I mean.”

Ryuji’s eyes darted from the floor, to the ceiling, to the stairs.
He tried to look anywhere, anywhere Ren wasn’t.

“I ah…” Ryuji stammered under his breath.

“I mean, Sojiro did give us permission.” Ren added.
“It’s actually the first time he’s ever let me have anyone stay over. And Morgana is visiting Haru for the next couple days so…” Ren’s voice gently trailed away.

Ryuji felt his heart beat faster.

“And ah, it would be nice to have the company.” He smiled sweetly while scratching the back of his neck.

“I probably shouldn’t.” The words tumbled out of Ryuji’s mouth far faster than he had intended.
Ryuji would have covered his mouth in surprise if Ren hadn’t been standing right in front of him. There was a hint of detachment to his tone that did not sit right with him. It didn’t sound like him.

Because it isn’t.
The sudden thought sent a shiver running through him.

“I mean-!” Ryuji added quickly. “My mom’s expecting me to come home and she’d probably want a heads up beforehand if I was staying over, ya know...”

There was a flicker of something across Ren’s face before it settled into his usual gentle smile.

“No, of course.” Ren said. “I understand.”

“But I’ll still help with those chairs though!” Ryuji quickly added. “Don't worry!”

Ryuji paused, then smirked while scratching under his nose.
“Man, I still can’t believe we spooked Sojiro that bad.” he snickered lightly.

Ren tried to hold back a chuckle. “I think it might be because of the horror movie that Futaba made him watch the other night.”

“Wait seriously? I thought Futaba was scared of horror movies.”

“Oh, she is.” Ren nodded. “But I think she was interested in the lore for the monster. Some sort of tree demon. It was celtic inspired I think. But anyway, she wanted to see it but didn’t want to watch it alone. I couldn’t that night cause I got called into work at the convenience store. I get home and find Futaba cowering under a blanket and Sojiro with his hands blocking his view of the TV.”

“Damn…” Ryuji gaped. “That movie must be pretty intense.”

“Well actually…” Ren smiled sheepishly. “I also might have given them a bit of an accidental scare on my way in when the door’s bell chimed.”

“Dude, that's crazy funny!” Ryuji guffawed.

Any awkward feelings that might have been, melted away as the two boys laughed.

Soon after, Ren and Ryuji headed downstairs and together, made quick work of uprighting the cafe’s fallen chairs.

“You sure you don’t want me to walk down to the subway with you?” Ren asked, with a touch of concern to his tone.

“Naw dude!” Ryuji smirked while slinging his school bag over his shoulders. “I’m a big boy! I can handle myself. And I don’t think there’s much chance of running into tree demons around here.”

“Just checking.” Ren chuckled.
“Thanks again for having me over, man! Night!” Ryuji said brightly as he turned to leave.
“Good night.” Ren uttered softly.

His tone was pleasant but somehow it made Ryuji hesitate with his hand on the door handle.

After the smallest of pauses, he pushed the door open and, without another word to Ren, stepped out into the cool night air.

Ryuji tucked his hands into his pockets as he gradually made his way down the alley.

It was not unusual for the nearby streets to be this quiet around this time of night, though for some reason, Ryuji felt uneasy.

Fool…
Ryuji froze.
He could have sworn he heard something right behind him.
Ryuji checked over his shoulder as a sudden wind picked up. He shielded his face with his arm but as he lowered it, the only thing that greeted him was the empty street. He glanced from left to right. His eyes fell on dark shop windows, an overturned bicycle, and the single street lamp illuminating that part of the street.

Ryuji shivered, feeling particularly glad that he hadn’t watched that one horror movie that Futaba and Sojiro had.
As Ryuji continued alone down the near empty streets of Yongen, the faintest clinking sound traveled on the wind. A figure stood, its gangly and tall form little more than a shade waning between this world and the next.

The figure slowly raised a skeletal hand.

“I cannot stand for this…”

The hand clenched.
“I wont…!”

________________________________________________________________

Outside this reality, beyond the bounds of the Metaverse, there exists another realm. Where personas and shadows dwell and interact with each other similarly to how humans do in the “real world.” It is not uncommon for tensions to rise between the two or for personas or shadows to quarrel with their own kind. Despite this, many personas go about their days peacefully. And those seeking solace, a fine drink and a nice meal, will surely find it here, at one of this reality’s most esteemed establishments. Nox.

The sound of stiff and heavy booted footsteps reverberated across the tavern’s wood floor.
Had the tavern been bustling with patrons perhaps some would have taken notice. But tonight was unusually quiet and for good reason. This evening, Nox Tavern’s owner Sojiho was absent, with no one to take the helm. Well… not no one exactly.

“You really ought to settle down, you know.” A low voice cooed.

The footsteps halted for the briefest of moments before resuming their pace.
Captain Kidd marched back and forth angrily, his coattails billowing behind him. He kept his skull low, his collar covering his jaw and mouth. His one eye glared across the tavern without a target in mind.

The red and black clothed demon seated at the bar sighed. Arsene fiddled with his partially filled glass of red wine as he held it delicately between his sharp fingertips.

“You know,” Arsene sighed. “Keeping this up isn’t going to make you feel any better. All you’re going to do is get Sojiho mad if you manage to scuff his floors.”

“And what else am I supposed to do then?!” Kidd growled, as he whirled around to face Arsene.
“You saw what happened there!”

“I did.” Arsene nodded calmly.

Kidd marched over to the bar and slammed his fist down.

“Ah well, allow me to make it perfectly clear in case you weren’t paying attention. Ryuji told Ren that he didn’t want to stay over. But that was a lie! He wanted to but he stopped himself because…”

Kidd clenched his jaw as he breathed heavily.

“He was too worried about what other people would think. Too scared to be himself. And if he keeps doing this…”

Kidd winced sadly as he shut his uncovered eye.

“He’s only going to end up hurting himself...”

Suddenly, Kidd’s eye flew open. He whirled around and aimed his cannon arm at the tavern’s wall.

“Kidd don’t-” Arsene said firmly.

BANG!

Arsene stared as the smoke from the cannon blast faded.
His fiery eyes widened.
The wall was perfectly intact.

Arsene turned his gaze to Kidd.
As far as Personas go, Arsene was far from the easiest to read.
Not many would have been able to catch the flicker of confusion in Arsene’s eyes.
But Kidd could.

“Relax,” Kidd said with a smirk while waving his cannon arm.
“They’re blanks.”

Arsene turned his head away with a cough that Kidd was sure was to cover up a snicker.
“Well good. Sojiho would have thrown a fit if you blasted another cannon ball through there like last month.”

“Arsene.” Kidd said in a serious tone.

He settled onto a bar stool.

“Ryuji has been fighting this crush he has on Ren for months. And I’m starting to think that he’s the ONLY one who hasn’t figured that out.”

He shot Arsene a glare then.

“Not that you’ve been giving me any intel on Ren’s thoughts on this or if he’s even realized.”

Arsene sipped his drink.

Kidd rolled his eye and stared down at the bar’s counter.

“This isn’t the first time he’s tried to distance himself either.” Kidd sighed.
“But the worst of it is that he doesn’t even realize how much this is hurting him.”

Kidd pushed his clawed hand against his chest.

“Not to mention… how much it hurts me to see him like this.”

Without turning away from his drink, Arsene put his hand on Kidd’s shoulder and wrapped his right wing around him. Kidd couldn’t help but feel his shoulder relax slightly under Arsene’s touch.

“I understand how you feel, mon cher.” He murmured gently.
“I know how much it pains you seeing Ryuji put himself in this position. Desperately wishing you could do something to help him.”

Kidd gazed somberly down at the bar.

“But.” Arsene continued. “This is something he might have to figure out on his own.”

Kidd frowned and leaned his hand against his skull.

Arsene sighed. “Still sulking are we? Well, if you really must force the issue, have you tried just talking to the boy?”

“I can’t…” Kidd muttered.

“And why not?”

Kidd turned his head toward Arsene.

“Well, say I tried,” Kidd’s volume raised. “How the heck would I even bring that up to him?!”

“Just peek into his mind and go- Hey Ryuji!” Kidd shimmied and waved his arms while speaking in an exaggerated tone. “So fun facto- yeah you’re gay! BI technically, probably. Which is like being gay except WOW TWO CAKES!”

This time Arsene couldn’t help but let out a snort.
“I mean-” He snickered.
“It could be worse, I suppose.”

Kidd pressed his hand to his face.

“Oh yeah, sure.” Kidd sighed, rolling his eyes. “And that’s just assuming that he doesn’t brush the whole thing aside as a dream. Or…”

Kidd tensed, his expression growing somber.

“Or worse… he ends up hating me for what I am…”

“Kidd,” Arsene said sternly.
“Now you’re being ridiculous.

“Am I?” Kidd uttered gravely.

He let out a sigh.

“I wish I could talk to him while we were in a Palace or Mementos or somewhere outside of his dreams. Then at least he might be more willing to hear me out. But I can’t, because that’s not how this works.”

He ran a skeletal finger across the bar’s counter and flashed Arsene a coy look.

“Can’t you- I don’t know. Encourage Ren to make the first move?”

Arsene slowly retracted his wing and turned away.

“I cannot.” He said simply. “I try not to meddle in Ren’s personal affairs.”

“Now that is bullshit and you know it!” Kidd snapped. “You’re the biggest meddler I know! Unless you don’t think Ren can handle it!”

Arsene’s eyes narrowed.

“It’s hardly my or Ren’s fault if your boy’s too dense to-”

In an instant, Kidd had his clawed hand around Arsene’s neck and his cannon in his face.
He loomed over him, glaring daggers at Arsene.

“Don’t you ever-” Kidd snarled. “Insult Ryuji…”

Arsene kept still. He took a breath and shut his eyes.

“You’re right.” He said gently. “I took it too far. My apologies.”

“No…” Kidd murmured, as he lowered his cannon.

“I technically started it. I’m sorry…”

Their expressions softened while their eyes remained locked on each other.
There was a creaking sound. Both Personas flashed the other a perplexed look. A nano second later their eyes widened in realization but it was too late. There was a loud snapping sound as one of the legs from Arsene’s bar stool broke.

“SHI-!” Kidd uttered.

As Arsene fell backwards Kidd tumbled down with him.
They both hit the floor with a clatter. Kidd winced as he pushed himself up.
Arsene had taken the brunt of it with Kidd landing on top of him.

“S-Sorry I…” Kidd stuttered. He moved to take his hand off Arsene’s neck but Arsene pushed down on Kidd’s hand and kept it in place.

“You know, we have got to stop meeting like this…” Arsene whispered.

Kidd bones tensed. He tried to remain rigid as a shiver passed through him. Arsene’s mellifluous tones often had this effect on him.

“Don’t-” Kidd let out a low yet soft growl.
“Not now…” It lacked conviction and Kidd knew that.

Arsene gazed up at him with a playful smirk.

“Come now. How can you possibly set a good example for Ryuji when you can’t even act on your own feelings?”

He slowly weaved his fingers in between Kidd’s as he spoke.

Kidd’s face flushed as Arsene’s hand touched his. He slowly ran his fingers along Arsene’s neck.

“Oh stop.” Kidd murmured gently. “You know I-”

“Excuse me gentlemen.” a voice said.
Kidd and Arsene’s eyes flew open. They stared across the tavern to find two silhouettes standing in the tavern’s doorway.

In a flurry of bones and feathers Kidd scrambled to his feet.

“S-Sorry!” Kidd quickly rambled. “The boss is out for the night so we’re working with ah- reduced staff at the moment.”

Arsene flapped his wings to help push himself up then stood and brushed himself off. He flashed a sour look Kidd’s way, but felt it was more intended for their unexpected guests than for him. Well maybe slightly intended for him…

“I do hope we’re not interrupting anything. But we have a proposition for you.”

_______________________________________________________________________-

After their surprise visitors had gone, Kidd and Arsene waited until Sojiho arrived back at the tavern. Having faced Sojiho’s anger before, the two personas immediately offered up their sincerest apologies for the broken stool. With a sigh and a huff, he forgave him. They then explained to him that they would be gone a few days and if he could please explain their circumstances to their other companions. Lastly, Kidd and Arsene asked if they could make use of one of the guest rooms to talk in private. Sojiho nodded and handed them a key.

Inside one of the large multi person guest rooms, Kidd rested his hand against his chin as he sat on a neatly made bed.
“Okay… are we sure we want to do this?” Kidd said hesitantly.

“I believe so.” Arsene replied.

“And you’re certain we can trust those two human looking people in blue?” Kidd inquired.

“Certain enough.” Was Arsene’s answer.

“And what exactly does that mean?”

Arsene crossed his arms. “And here I thought you wanted to have your one on one with Ryuji?”

“I-I do!” Kidd stammered. He stood up and paced. “It’s just a little too convenient isn’t it? Two strangers just happen to show up with a way for us to enter the mortal world? How do we know this isn’t some sort of trap? And in exchange they want information on their missing sister and master, how the heck are we supposed to figure that out?”

“You needn’t worry.” Arsene said calmly. “Ren and I have had dealings with their kind before. As for the information you can leave that to me.” Arsene gracefully tipped his hat.

Kidd sighed and shrugged. “Okay. If you say so.”

He paused.
“And this ritual… It won’t hurt the boys…right?”

“Ah, of course.” Arsene chuckled darkly. “It’s not our safety you’re concerned about, it’s Ryuji.”

“Obviously!” Kidd barked with exasperation.

“And what about me?” Arsene said coyly.

Kidd blushed. “O-Oh for the love of-You’ll be fine! You and I can take care of ourselves! ”

Arsene snickered. “Don’t worry. I know I can always count on you, mon amour.”

Arsene winked.

Kidd shied away from him.

“So should I call Ryuji or?” Kidd mumbled.

“Better let me do it.” Arsene replied.
“Ren will probably have an easier time with the instructions.”

Kidd frowned. He would have pressed the issue but they were wasting time. That and, sadly, Kidd had to admit Arsene might have a point.

“J-Just get on with it already then.” Kidd groaned.

“Consider it done.”

Shadows rose and in a blink Arsene was gone.

____________________________________________________________________________

Ren’s eyes slowly opened.
He lay on his back gazing into darkness. But the darkness wasn’t empty.
Long purple shadows swayed like smoke pushed by a breeze.

Ren sat up. As he did so, his body started floating. He wasn’t scared. Instead, he felt a calmness spread over him.

Blue flames sparked to life and danced around. Ren could feel their warmth but the flames never flitted too close to burn him. This was far from the first time that Ren had found himself in this place. Whenever Arsene spoke to Ren’s subconscious, he liked to make a show of it.

“Good evening, boy.”

Some of the shadows faded away to reveal Arsene seated on a throne made of blue flames.

“Arsene.” Ren beamed. “I’m happy to see you.”

“And I you.” Said Arsene.

He flapped his black feathered wings and glided over to Ren.

“I don’t mean to rush us but there is a pressing matter that we need to discuss. Heed my instructions and I believe I will be able to be of greater use to you than ever before.”

Ren blinked in confusion.

“Arsene… what did you say just now?”

Arsene flashed a puzzled look.

He coughed as he regained his composure.

“I said, we-” Arsene started.

“Arsene? I can’t hear you. Your voice sounds all muffled.” Ren explained.

“It…what?”

Arsene froze. Arsene swore he could hear something. But that was impossible. This was a private space made only for a persona and its user. Nothing else could get in.

Arsene’s fiery eyes widened as he perceived the sound of soft piano music gently filtering into the realm of shadows.

“Boy, now’s not the time to-”
“Arsene?”

Ren’s body suddenly started to drift away from him.
There was a pale blue glow that cut through the shadows.A second later, a blue door materialized.

“Ren, wait! Stop!” Arsene sprang forward with his hands outstretched. His clawed fingertips grasped the air as Ren floated just out of reach. He tried to glide forward but felt as though an invisible barrier was holding him back.

“Arsene I’m sorry! I have to go!” Ren called out sadly.

“B-But Ren!” Arsene cried.

The blue swung open to admit Ren, then it shut with a loud bang.

A moment later, shadows rose then melted away as Arsene materialized beside Kidd inside the guestroom .

He held a clawed hand to his face and kept his back to Kidd.

“Sooo, wrong number?” Kidd smirked.

“No.” Arsene moaned. “He put me on hold…”

Kidd blinked then snorted with laughter.

Arsene crossed his arms and folded his wings.

Kidd moved behind him and started patting his shoulder.

“There there!” Kidd said with a grin. “Whatever Ren’s busy with, I’m sure he’d much rather be spending time with you.”

Arsene sighed. “Must you patronize me so?”

In contrast, Kidd beamed at his companion.
“I’m not! Believe me, I get it.”

Kidd was well aware of the manner in which Arsene liked to present: graceful, composed, cool, calm, collected and always one step ahead. But even though he tried to hide it, he knew Arsene cared just as much about Ren as he did about Ryuji.

“Listen,” said Kidd. “If this works, you and Ren will have all the time in the world. Now, wait here.”

Kidd gently squeezed Arsene’s shoulder then leisurely strolled past him.

“I’ll go have that chat with Ryuji. I’m pretty sure he’s available right now.”

“Make sure he takes note of the instructions.” Arsene huffed as lightning crackled around Kidd.

“I’ll try.” Kidd winked before disappearing with a flash.

___________________________________________________________________

Ryuji slowly opened his tired eyes.

I’m… falling? He thought.

He shook his head. No that’s not right…

It was more like floating. Ryuji’s eyes widened in alarm as he looked down. Below him there was nothing and he was gradually sinking deeper into the dark empty space.

He had to do something. Ryuji started thrashing when he felt something touch his hand. He whirled around and tried to peer through darkness in front of him. Just then, a gentle shimmer shone from above and gradually cut through the darkness.

Ryuji glanced back downward and stared. He found himself face to face with…himself? Except this him was wearing his phantom thief outfit. Ryuji’s double smiled softly while holding his hand.

“Do you remember this place?” Ryuji’s double asked. It was Ryuji’s voice but a deeper rougher cadence echoed along with it.

Ryuji thought for a moment. His eyes widened.
A huge grin spread across Ryuji’s face as the realization hit him.
“Yeah! I’ve been here before!” He exclaimed.

His double beamed back at him and chuckled warmly.
The two Ryujis laughed as they lightly bonked foreheads. Then the second Ryuji moved back. Shadows eclipsed his body as his form began to change. The shadowy hand clasping Ryuji stretched and grew until Ryuji was standing on its palm. The rest of the shadows billowed out, towering over Ryuji. As the shadows cleared, Ryuji gazed at a familiar skeletal face.

“Ahoy, Lad.” Kidd said, casting a warm smile down at Ryuji.

“Captain!” Ryuji exclaimed.

He hesitated and cleared his throat.
Ryuji held a great deal of admiration for Kidd and didn’t want to seem uncool in front of him.

“So- how’s it going?” Ryuji added while tucking his hands behind his head.

Kidd gazed down at him and chuckled.

“Lad…” Kidd managed to get out as he fought to maintain his composure. “You don’t need to be so formal with me. I’m just glad to see you.”

Ryuji smiled brightly. “Really? M-Me too. It’s been awhile.”

“I know…” Kidd said with a tinge of regret in his voice.

Kidd gently touched down on what appeared to be the floor of the chasm.

“I wanted to reach out to you more but I was worried I might distract you. You have exams coming up after all.”

“Aww, Is that why?! Ryuji groaned loudly. “I doze in class all the time! You could have come by whenever you wanted.”

Kidd’s eye narrowed. “That’s exactly what I’m talking about.”
He frowned as he poked Ryuji gently in the chest.

“Ahhh okay, okay!” Ryuji laughed while shielding himself with his hands.
“I get it! But hear me out! If you were there then maybe you could help me stay focused?”

Kidd opened his mouth to reply then paused.
Ryuji had unknowingly given him the perfect opportunity to broach the subject at hand.

“Well actually, that’s kind of why I’m here.” Kidd said.

Ryuji’s eyebrow crooked in confusion. “It is?”

As much as he wanted to hold onto him for longer, Kidd decided to carefully set Ryuji down.
He crouched in front of him, barely lessening the drastic height difference between them.

“So, we,” Kidd said hesitantly. “That is to say, Arsene and I, might have found a way for us, as in us personas, to accompany you and your friends even when you’re not in the metaverse.”

“Wait…really?” Ryuji gaped as he gazed up at Kidd with wide eyes.
“Like at school and stuff?”

Kidd nodded. “Anywhere you want.”

He stood up at his full height and paced as he continued.

“We thought that… Spending time together outside of battle and also here.” He gestured at their surroundings. “Would be good for both of us, all of us. Being able to help you even with the little day to day things. Studying or… something as little as…asking for advice.”

Kidd paused and eyed Ryuji, who was gazing at him unphased.
He hoped he wasn’t being too obvious. It was so important that he be able to talk to Ryuji about things and get him to open up.

“And having a stronger connection would probably help our co-ordination in battle too!” He added hastily. “Who knows, maybe we’ll be able to discover new abilities through this. This is all new to us as well but I think it’s definitely worth a try.”

He halted with his back to Ryuji.
“I-If you want to, of course.” Kidd said with a cough, trying to hide an anxious stutter.

In truth, he was just as bad as his user. He wanted Ryuji to think he was cool too.

“Are you kidding?!” Ryuji exclaimed. “That would be so sick! Of course I wanna!”

Kidd turned back to Ryuji. He smiled and flashed a thumbs up.
”Great!”

“So, what do we need to do exactly?” Ryuji asked.

“Alright… there’s a couple things you’re going to need so listen carefully.”

____________________________________________________________________________

“Alright, what’s next?” said Ren.

“Okay um…” Ryuji squeezed the bridge of his nose as he contemplated.
“Right! A tablespoon of sage.”

Ryuji and Ren were in Leblanc’s attic.
Ryuji stood while Ren sat on the floor with his legs crossed.

A white piece of paper lay on the floor in front of Ren with a symbol depicting two masks facing each other. Surrounding the paper, Ren and Ryuji had set small bowls of various spices.

“Are you sure?” Ren asked.

“Pretty sure, yeah.” Ryuji said.
“Mostly… Like 80 percent sure.” He smiled sheepishly while scratching his head.

Ren gave him an uneasy look.

“Dude, I swear,” Ryuji said while rolling his eyes.
“Kidd and I went over everything multiple times. It’s just a lot to remember so it takes me a sec.”

“I just want us to be careful.” Ren said.

He stared gravely at Ryuji.

“And you’re positive that it was really Kidd who spoke to you in the dream?”

“Duh! Of course it was Kidd!” Ryuji protested. “Who else would it be? How many other 12 foot tall skeletons do you know?!”

Ren rested one hand on his chin as he contemplated.

“Well, I don’t know their specific heights but… there’s Matador and Hell Biker and White Rider and-”

“Okay okay!” Ryuji said while face palming. “I get it! Not the point though!”

“I mean you asked.” Ren shrugged while smirking.

Ryuji sighed.

“Man, I want you to just believe me. But if you’re that worried, Kidd did tell me something else that he said might reassure you.”

Ren raised an eyebrow. “And what’s that?”

“He told me to tell you that,” Ryuji started. “Arsene says he’s sorry that your meeting got called short last night.”

Ren’s eyes widened.

“I mean- that was more my fault than anything. He doesn’t need to apologize.” Ren flushed while fiddling with his glasses.

Ryuji grinned “So you believe me.”

Ren nodded. “Of course I do. I already did but knowing for certain definitely makes me worry less.”

“So, we ready to do this?” Ryuji chimed eagerly, cracking his knuckles.

Ren smiled as he rose to his feet. “Definitely.”

Ryuji and Ren stared down at the paper symbol.

“So, now all that’s left is reciting the incantation right?” Ren asked.
“Yeah.” Ryuji said hesitantly.
“And ah…”

“What is it?”

Ryuji turned away as he blushed.
“Kidd said that… we should hold hands while we say it. Something about… keeping the ritual stable. I don’t know…”

“Okay.” said Ren, smiling gently as he reached out his hands.

Ryuji took Ren’s hands in his. They were surprisingly soft and warm.
He swallowed nervously as he felt his heart pound.

Come on, man! Ryuji’s thoughts raced.
Why are you even thinking about stuff like this? Cut it out!

“You okay?” Ren asked, looking at his friend with worry.

“Y-Yeah I’m fine.” Ryuji stuttered. “Just kinda nervous. Really hope this works.”

“It’ll be fine. We got this.” Ren smiled encouragingly.

After taking in a deep breath, Ryuji and Ren recited the incantation Kidd had taught him.

“I call upon you my other self, transcend the boundary that bars our worlds and join with me. Grant me insight, protection and strength as we brave this world together. Accept this our renewed vow. I am thou, thou art I.“

The symbol on the paper began to glow purple. The light extended outward, connecting to the 6 bowls of spice the boys had laid out. As the light touched the spices, purple and black smoke burst forth.

“Gah!” Ryuji cried out while Ren gaped.

They drew back and shielded each other with their arms as the light intensified and the smoke whirled around them. Then it was over. The light and smoke had disappeared.

Ryuji and Ren slowly lowered their arms.

“D-Did it work?” Ryuji murmured.

He and Ren glanced around the room.
Everything appeared to be as it was before the ritual.
Nothing behind them. No billowing coattails nor feathery black wings.
“Aww man...” Ryuji moped.
“It didn’t…”

He caught Ren staring at the floor with his mouth agape.
“Dude what?” he asked.

Ren pointed downward.
On the paper symbol stood two palm sized figures.
One dressed in blue and black with a tricorn hat and the other in red with tiny black wings.

“No way…” Ryuji breathed.

Kidd and Arsene stared at each other. They hurriedly glanced around, first at the room then at their two boys who now towered over them.

Arsene’s wings remained stock still while Kidd’s jaw dropped so low that Ryuji was worried it might fall off.

“Oh shit!” Ryuji trembled while bringing his hands up to his face.
“I screwed up! I screwed up so bad!”

Seeing Ryuji’s panic made Kidd’s eye widened with concern. He gripped Arsene’s ruffle tie and roughly pulled him close.

“What in blazes is this?!” he snarled under his breath while waving his canon arm.
“What happened?! So it is a trap! Or- did I get the instructions mixed up when I gave them to Ryuji?!”

Arsene paused and rested his hand under his chin.

“Actually…I don’t think anything went wrong with the ritual.” Arsene whispered.

“What do you mean???”

“I’m just remembering something that was said by one of that pair in blue: “By casting this ritual you may be able to aid your users… if even in a small way.”

Kidd blinked his eye at Arsene.

“So we’re just small now… oh that’s just great!” Kidd noticed the rise in his voice and dropped it even lower but, even in hushed tones, his panic and frustration were still in full force.
“How am I supposed to have my man to man talk with Ryuji like this?! I wouldn’t even take myself seriously at this height!”

Arsene put his hand on Kidd’s.

“What’s done is done, for now.” He whispered back softly.
“Regardless, of our present circumstances we did obtain what we sought. We’re here, in the human world. So, it’s best we make the most of things.”

Arsene glanced toward Ryuji and Ren.
“Without worrying the boys.”

Kidd’s expression softened as followed Arsene’s gaze. His raised shoulders relaxed as he released the tension he held in them.

“Let me do the talking and I’ll take care of it.”
“Okay...” Kidd murmured back.

“Good.” Arsene nodded.

“Now kindly release my ruffle.” He added curtly.

“Ghh, sorry.” Kidd muttered in apology, pulling his hand away.

They both turned to Ryuji and Ren.

“Ahoy, lad!” Kidd chimed.
“Well ah, you’re definitely taller than the last time I saw you.”

“Captain…Arsene.” Ryuji gazed down at the personas with wide, worry-filled eyes.
“I’m so sorry!

“Do you need anything or-” Ren looked just as flustered. “Is there anything we can do?”

Arsene chuckled darkly and shook his head.

“No, we’re fine.” He replied. “You boys did fine. The ritual went as expected. Our diminished stature is merely a side effect.”

Kidd tilted his head while Ryuji and Ren exchanged looks of uncertainty.

“Think of this also as a precaution of sorts,” Arsene continued. “So as not to draw attention to ourselves or either of you.”

He held his arms out and shrugged.

“What would people say if they saw Kidd or I looming over you? And how would either of you explain us to Sojiro?”

Ryuji grimaced at the thought of that difficult conversation.
“That does make sense.” Ren remarked.

“So then, does that mean regular people can see you too?” Ryuji asked.

“As we understand it, they can, however they won’t perceive us the same way you do.” Arsene explained. “To non-persona users we are visible to them but less so, like shadows but with greater presence. Unsettling enough to the average person. Making this change in stature vital in helping us be less conspicuous.”

Oh, you are way too smooth. Kidd thought with a smirk as he eyed Arsene.
As always…

Arsene wasn’t exactly lying. It had been explained to them that they would be visible to a degree. However, they had not been warned whatsoever about the new pocket sized perspective they would gain.

“Well-” Ren smiled softly. “As long as you’re both alright.”

Ryuji meanwhile, was gazing down at Kidd.
Kidd tensed, worried about how Ryuji felt about all this.

“What is it lad?” Kidd asked. He kept his tone mellow but a tinge of sadness threatened to slip in. “You can tell me anything. I’m sorry if this isn’t quite what you were hoping for.”

Kidd eyed the floor.

“I mean-” Ryuji fidgeted as he spoke. Then a smile spread across his face.
“I’m just happy you’re here.”

Kidd laughed deeply while returning the smile.
“I’m glad I’m here too.”

“Can I ah…I mean do you want me to-” Ryuji hesitantly held his hand out.
Man, he must think I’m such a dork. Ryuji thought.
‘May I pick you up Mister Captain Kidd, sir?’ God damnit…

But Kidd nodded and stepped forward.
“I don’t mind at all, lad.”

Ryuji flashed a shy grin. He slowly lowered his hand to the floor. Kidd strode confidently then hopped up onto Ryuji’s palm with ease.

Ren turned to Arsene and started to reach his hand out.

“No need, boy.” Arsene said, waving his own hand in gentle dismissal.

Arsene’s black feathered wings flapped. He glided upward and landed gracefully on Ren’s shoulder.

At the same time, Ryuji raised Kidd up to eye level. The two of them looked at each other then laughed.
“Hey this feels familiar doesn’t it?” Ryuji smirked.
“Sure does.” Kidd jested. “A lot brighter in here though.”

“Yeah! And if we really were in my dream, I guess I’d have to turn into you for a bit.”

Kidd touched the back of his head with his cannon.
“I hope it’s not too confusing when I visit you. I thought seeing another version of yourself might be reassuring or comforting in a way. I also find the lull of ocean tides and sunlight shimmering down from above to be very relaxing.”

“Wait what?” Ryuji blurted.

His eyes suddenly widened.
“Ohhh that’s what that is…”

Kidd blinked in astonishment. He uttered a laugh and sighed.
“Okay, maybe that’s a sign I need to redecorate for next time.”

“No no it’s fine!” Ryuji insisted. “I dig it! I just didn’t get that it was water above us in those dreams.”

“It’s okay.” Ren chimed. “Arsene has a habit of…making an entrance when he visits my dreams.”

Arsene’s wings shifted.

“Oh, what does he do?” Ryuji asked.

“Well there’s a lot of fire and shadows and this throne made of flames.” Ren explained.

Kidd chuckled and raised an eyebrow at Arsene.

“A throne? Really?”

Arsene crossed his arms and leaned his back against Ren's neck without comment.

“Oh, someone’s embarrassed.” Kidd snickered.

“Don’t worry though!” Ren added reassuringly. “I do think it's cool.”

Arsene’s posture straightened as his mouth stretched into a content smirk.

“So, what now?” Ryuji asked.

“That’s up to you two.” Kidd shrugged as he glanced from Ryuji to Ren.
He winked and gave the boys a thumbs up.

“Whatever you want to do. Arsene and I are just happy to be along for the ride.”

“Ahh umm…” Ryuji glanced around the room. His eyes fell on Ren’s TV.

“Video games…?” he asked hesitantly.

Kidd clapped his fist against his palm.
“Now, you’re talking!” he exclaimed.

“Where we’re from, Kidd is currently the reigning champion of Super He-Ho Bros Melee.” Arsene added.

“No way!” Ryuji beamed.

Arsene nodded with agrin. “However, he isn’t unbeatable.”

He rose from Ren’s shoulder. “And that’s why I call whoever grabs their controller first, gets to pick the stage.”

“Oh no you don’t!” Kidd growled.
Kidd hopped down from Ryuji’s shoulder and sprinted across the floor while Arsene glided above him.

Ryuji gently nudged Ren with his elbow. His eyes glistened as he looked at his best friend.
“Dude,” His voice cracked as he murmured in a high pitched whisper. “I have the coolest persona!”

____________________________________________________________________________

The boys and their personas spent the rest of the day glued to Ren’s TV. As luck would have it, Ryuji had let Ren borrow his PlaySquare a few days before. Ren’s Famidrive was fine but didn’t have a ton of options for multiplayer games.

At first, it was a little difficult for Kidd and Arsene to keep pace with the boys without having size appropriate controllers. Together though, the four of them were able to devise a way for Kidd and Arsene to play co-op together with Kidd moving the control stick and Arsene jumping on the buttons.

When it got late, Ryuji and Kidd said their goodbyes to Arsene and Ren.
Ryuji and Ren also agreed to tell the rest of their group about the ritual and their mini personas.

“They wouldn’t want to miss out on this,” said Ren.
“Oh yeah, are you kidding?” Ryuji smirked. “They’re gonna go crazy when they find out.”

And they did.
The next day, once Ryuji and Ren were sure they found a spot outside where no one would see them, they opened up their backpacks and showed Kidd and Arsene to the others.

Morgana, Ann, Yusuke, Makoto, Futaba and Haru all gaped and gushed as their eyes fell on the mini personas. Both Kidd and Arsene felt a mixture of embarrassment and flattery from the attention.

It wasn’t long before Ann, Futaba and Morgana had crowded around Ryuji, pestering him.
Yusuke meanwhile was animatedly bombarding Ren with questions.

“And how long can they be here with us?” Yusuke asked.

“Until the next time we enter a palace or mementos.” Ren answered.
“After that there's a cooldown of about 20 days before the ritual will work again.

“I see…” Yusuke said while he pondered. “I would love to have Goemon’s feedback on my compositions.”

“You’ve got to let me see Carmen!” Ann whined loudly while shaking Ryuji by his shoulders.
“Please please please! I NEED to have Necronomi!” Futaba begged.
“Pretty selfish keeping the persona ritual all to yourself, Ryuji.” Morgana accused.

“ALRIGHT ALRIGHT, JEEZ!” Ryuji bellowed.
“JUST LET GO OF ME ALREADY!”

Ann withdraw her hands.

“Sheesh,” Ryuji huffed as he readjusted his blazer. “As if we wouldn’t let you guys summon your personas too.”

Over the next few days, everyone’s moods were bright and chipper from being able to spend quality time with their personas. They took them wherever they went. School, the mall, the arcade, their houses.

While at school Ryuji would keep Kidd in his desk and having him there really did seem to be helping his focus. He felt more motivated, no doubt partly from him wanting to make Kidd proud. And when he did start to doze off from boredom, Kidd would utter a soft but firm “Steady, lad,” and bring Ryuji’s attention back to the lesson.

They had an agreement though. Kidd could help Ryuji answer questions in class but cheating on exams was out of the question. He would have to study like everyone else, though Kidd was more than happy to assist with this.

The two of them were at Leblanc, Ryuji seated at a table hunched over his notes while Kidd leaned against a textbook’s spine on the table. The cafe was closed since Sojiro was spending the day with Futaba.

Ryuji fiddled with his pencil as he read off one of the questions for his homework.
“What significance does The Captain in Twelfth night have to the story?”
He stared at Kidd.

“Wrong Captain, sorry.” Kidd said with a wink.
“Aww man!” Ryuji snickered. “And here I was so sure it was you.”

He scratched his chin.
“I don’t even remember there being a captain in the play though.”

“He’s in it really early.” Kidd explained. “Check ACT 1 scene 2.”

Ryuji flipped the pages of his book.

“Oh yeah! He chimed. “There it is! Now I remember! Thanks!”

He started to jot down notes.

“Okay after I’m done this, next is math homework I guess.”
Ryuji sighed while Kidd winced.

“Actually, math’s not my best subject either. Maybe Arsene and Ren can help with that when they’re done cooking. Ah speak of the devil!”

As if on cue, Arsene flew up to the table.
“Mind if I steal him away for a second?” Arsene asked while pointing at Kidd.
“Naw, it's all good. Take your time.” Ryuji said as he focused on writing out his answer.

“Back soon, lad.” Kidd said with a casual wave.

Kidd hopped down from the table and met Arsene by the bottom of the staircase to the attic.

“Well?” Arsene said curtly.

“Well, what?” Kidd mumbled, baffled.

Arsene sighed.
“Have you had your talk with Ryuji yet?”

“Er…” Kidd touched the back of his skull with his cannon.
“In a manner of speaking…no.”

“Need I remind you,” Arsene said in vexation.
“That this mission of yours is the reason why we’re here in the first place?”

“Oh lighten up a little, Arsene.” Kidd huffed.
“Besides, you can’t pretend you haven’t been enjoying your time with Ren. And besides, Ryuji has exams coming up and I don’t want to distract him from them.”

“You’re stalling.” Arsene said plainly.

“No! No, I’m not!” Kidd said firmly, taken aback.
“I’m just waiting for the right moment.”

“And when will that be, exactly? Arsene asked, eyeing Kidd with apprehension.

Kidd threw his arms up in exasperation. “I don’t know, okay! It’ll just happen when it happens.”

His tone softened and his gaze shifted downward.

“All I know is, I can’t afford to screw this up. For Ryuji’s sake and mine.”

“Food is ready!” Ren called out from the kitchen.

Kidd looked back at Arsene.

“I know you’re just trying to help me get through this.” Kidd murmured.
“But can we talk more about this later?”

Arsene frowned. “Fine…” He said stiffly. “But you know you’ll have to face it eventually.”

He unfurled his wings and glided back toward the table.
Kidd sighed and marched over with his hand on his hip.

Ren was gently setting curry plates down while Ryuji pushed their textbooks and papers aside.
Ryuji spotted Kidd on the floor and extended his hand to him.

“You don’t need to do that for him, you know.” Arsene said, already perched on the table.

“What? Why not?” Ryuji blurted, incredibly confused.

“He can hover and fly, similar to how I can,” Arsene shrugged. “He just hasn’t been summoning his ship, for some reason.” His eyes narrowed as he stared at Kidd.

Kidd gaped.

“I-I just haven’t felt the need to.” Kidd stammered.

“Oh?” Arsene said with a smirk. “You sure it’s not because you’ve been delighting in Ryuji ferrying you around?”

If Kidd’s skull could turn any paler, it did at that moment.

“I-I thought it would draw too much attention!” Kidd sputtered.
“I mean I don’t mind.” Ryuji smiled brightly.
“Though, even if it’s just once, I would like to see your ship.”

Any tension Kidd felt melted away in that instant.
“Well, anything for you, lad.” Kidd said.

He snapped his clawed fingers. As he did so a small spark flashed.
Ryuji and Ren looked up as they heard the sound of thunder rumbling.
“Whoa!” Ryuji and Ren cried out.
With a flash, a small bolt of lightning struck the floor in front of Kidd.
The light dimmed leaving tiny smarks floating in the air as Kidd’s ship floated in front of him.

A face with two yellow and red eyes gazed out from the bow while sporting a toothy grin. Nets dangled over the ship’s gunwale flapping from a breeze that Ryuji and Ren could not feel. The ship gently rocked on invisible tides, its figurehead, a golden angel, swaying dutifully with the vessel.

Kidd nimbly hopped aboard his ship.
Ryuji stared transfixed as the ship rose. It settled just above the table, floating an inch in the air.

“Quite the beauty, isn’t it?” Kidd winked.

“Hell yeah!” Ryuji exclaimed.

____________________________________________________________________________

After chowing down on Ren’s curry, Kidd and Arsene even sampling some from small plates, Ryuji let out a yawn.

“Alright.” He gave a dejected sigh. “Back to the books.”

“Oh Ryuji, here.” Ren said as he set down a mug in front of him.

“What’s that? Coffee?” Ryuji asked.

“Yeah. Well, it’s a latte actually.” Ren said while pushing back his glasses.
“Sojiro’s been letting me experiment a little more lately. It should be pretty sweet too, not bitter, so I hope you like it.”

Ryuji took a small sip. His eyes widened.
“Damn!” Ryuji exclaimed. He took another longer sip. It was creamy smooth and sweet and tasted of caramel with a hint of cinnamon.

“That’s amazing!”

“Really?” Ren beamed.
“Yeah! Be careful man,” Ryui grinned. “Or you might get me hooked on it.”
“I’ll make you one whenever you want.” said Ren, looking pleased.

Kidd stood aboard his ship and eyed the mug as Ryuji set it down.
He froze as he stared at the beverage’s frothy milk surface.
He blinked and quickly rubbed his eye.

IS-IS THAT A LATTE HEART?! Kidd bellowed in his head.

Ryuji picked up the latte again and drank more while he leaned over his notes.

DOES HE EVEN SEE IT?! Kidd howled internally.
Perhaps it was just for decoration. But then again, if it wasn’t...
Maybe Arsene was right. As nervous as he was, Kidd felt he should probably have that talk with Ryuji sooner rather than later.

Kidd shut his gaping jaw before Ryuji could catch sight of it.
He looked across the table at Arsene.

Kidd flashed him a tense look and nodded repeatedly at his companion.
He wasn’t sure if Arsene had seen the latte heart or not, but hoped that Arsene would catch his meaning. I’m going to talk to him, I promise.

Arsene took a clawed hand and lightly tipped his hat in understanding.
Kidd sighed in relief.

“Oh no.” Ren gasped. “I forgot I was supposed to pick up some groceries for Sojiro.”

“Oh shoot.” Ryuji said.
“Want me to come with?”

“Naw,” Ren replied as he untied his green apron.
“It shouldn’t take me too long. You can keep studying in the meantime.”

“But dude, what about you?” Ryuji interjected. “You gotta study up too!”
“I’ll be fine.” Ren replied. “Though I wouldn’t say no to going over notes together once I'm back.”

“Sure.” Ryuji said while giving Ren a thumbs up.

“Arsene, do you want to go with me?” Ren asked.
“It’s okay if you want to stay here though.”

“Perish the thought.” Arsene said, shaking his head.
“I’m glad to accompany you.”

Arsene’s feathery wings fluttered.
He gently glided over toward Kidd. He stopped in front of Kidd’s ship and hovered inches from him.

“Kidd.”
“Yeah?” Kidd flashed him a puzzled look.

Before he knew what was happening, Arsene had taken hold of his hand.
Arsene bowed his head and brought Kidd’s hand toward his mouth.

“Until my return…mon amour.” He murmured softly.

He kissed Kidd’s hand.
Instantly, Kidd’s skull face blushed a vibrant red.
Passion, confusion and fear gripped his heart all at once.

Ryuji’s jaw dropped as he stared bug-eyed, his cheeks tinged with color.
Ren blushed too. He smiled and scratched his head as he tried to look away.

The moment seemed to last an eternity.
Finally, Arsene released Kidd’s hand and drew back.
He flew over to Ren and landed on his shoulder.

“Let’s be on our way then.” Arsene said, smirking.

“R-Right.” stuttered Ren, clearly flustered.
“B-Be back soon.”

Ren quickly stepped out with Arsene.
The sound of the bell on Leblanc’s door gradually faded, leaving only silence.

Wearily, Kidd slowly turned toward Ryuji.

Ryuji looked back at him.
Kidd’s heart sank as he beheld every nervous twinge on his Ryuji’s face.
Ryuji opened his mouth but no sound came out.
He swallowed.
“Um…” Ryuji uttered hesitantly.
“What was that just now…?”

“Lad…” Kidd said, solemnly.
“Why don’t we go upstairs. You and I need to talk…”

____________________________________________________________________________

Ryuji stood by the open window in Ren’s attic.
A breeze gently brushed against his short blonde hair. The fresh air felt good.
It was calming even as a million panicked thoughts rushed through his mind.

If Kidd is… Ryuji thought.
Does that mean I’m…?

He took a breath and slowly exhaled.
Kidd was standing on Ren’s work bench with his arms crossed. Waiting.

“So… you and Arsene?” Ryuji asked while keeping his back to him.

“Yeah.” Kidd slowly nodded.

“Then you are dating.” Ryuji mumbled.

“In a sense…” Kidd answered hesitantly.
“We’re ah- keeping things casual for now. Testing the waters...”

“Bloody hell! Kidd screamed inside his own head in a panic.
This talk was supposed to be about him, not me!

“So, you like men.” Ryuji continued.

“Yes. And women.” Kidd interjected.

“Wait-” Ryuji's eyes widened as he finally turned around to face Kidd.
“You can do that?”

Kidd gaped then quickly shook away his look of disbelief.

“Yes.” Kidd said resolutely.
“If I find that someone is easy on the eye and they have a nice personality, and they feel the same, then there’s no problem. That other stuff doesn’t matter to me.”

“But, aren’t you worried about what other people, er I mean- personas might think?” Ryuji mentioned nervously.

Kidd’s thoughts raced.
Was Ryuji starting to open up? Maybe he could still save this talk.
He just needed to think of something clever.

“Well I,” Kidd faltered as he struggled to find the perfect thing to say to Ryuji.
“Er I mean…”

One thought flashed at the forefront of his mind and though he tried, he just couldn’t shake it.

Don’t say it, for the love of all the seas don’t say it…

“Say…you and your friends are having a party. Ren brings a chocolate cake and Ann brings a strawberry one.”

Bloody hell…

“Now, normally you’d go for the strawberry one but you find yourself really wanting to have the chocolate one Ren brought. But then you notice everyone else is picking the strawberry cake, so you do the same. And every time there’s a party you end up taking strawberry cake. Each time, you find yourself feeling stressed and disappointed. And the only one stopping yourself from having a good time… is you.”

Ryuji remained silent. He rested his hand on his chin as he pondered.

“I think…I understand what you’re saying.” Ryuji concluded.

“You do? I’m glad.” Kidd said with a soft smile.

Two cakes… who would have figured.

“And ah!” Kidd added hastily.
“It’s okay for someone to change their mind about this sort of thing. Maybe they end up liking just chocolate or just strawberry. Say Yusuke brings a third cake, a matcha vanilla one and you end up liking that more.”

“I don’t like matcha though.” Ryuji winced.
“Mango then.” Kidd sighed.
“Now you’re talking!” Ryuji grinned.
Kidd chuckled heartily.

“So ah…” Ryuji fidgeted with his fingertips.
“You and Arsene were friends for a while first, yeah?”

Kidd nodded.
“We’ve been friends for as long as you and Ren have been.”

“But-” Ryuji trailed off.
“Say, Arsene didn’t like you that way and didn’t want to ever see you again after he found out how you felt...”

“Ryuji.” Kidd straightened his posture and stood as tall as he could muster.

“Hoisting the flag of the rebellion is about being true to yourself and not giving a single damn in all of hell what anyone else thinks of you! That’s what I always live by.”

Kidd snapped his fingers. There was a jolt of lightning and his ship materialized in the air.
Kidd sprang aboard and floated in front of Ryuji.

“Staying friends is one thing but anyone that would cut you out of their life over this, was never a true friend at all. Always surround yourself with friends that care about you and who have your trust. And from what I’ve seen, I think you’ve done a pretty good job of that already. Also…”

Kidd raised his cannon arm.
“If anyone ever hurt you I’d make them live to regret it.”

Ryuji put his hand to his mouth as he held back a snicker.
“Aww you don’t gotta do that for me.” Ryuji said, rubbing his finger across his nose.
“I wouldn’t want either of us to get in trouble.”

Kidd bowed.
“I am your persona. Your other self. Your guardian and protector and…

He raised his head then.

“I’ll always love you, Ryuji.” Kidd said gently.
“No matter what.”

Ryuji gazed at Kidd.

“C-Captain…” Ryuji sobbed.
He plucked Kidd off his ship while tears welled up in his eyes.
Kidd chuckled and winced as Ryuji hugged him tightly.

“I love you, too!” Ryuji cried.

Kidd smiled as his eye teared up.

“That’s my boy.”
____________________________________________________________________________

Later, Kidd was standing on the windowsill outside Ren’s room.
The sun was starting to set, the sky turning to vibrant shades of pink and yellow and orange.

He sighed contentedly.
The distant sound and sight of ocean tides rising and falling would have made the scene perfect.

“Ah, there you are.” Arsene said as he fluttered down onto the windowsill.

Kidd frowned at him.

“Oh, are you sulking?” Arsene remarked with amusement. “Are you mad or did you just miss me that much?”

“I ought to slug you for what you did back there!” Kidd growled, shooting Arsene a glare.

“I thought you wanted me to intervene.” Arsene said.

“Bullshit!” Kidd barked. “I was signaling to you that I was going to take care of it!”

Arsene sighed dramatically.
“You looked so composed gazing out at the sunset and now you’re all thundery and boorish yet again.”

Kidd blinked then smiled smugly.

“That’s how you like me, isn’t it?” He said with a wink.

“Perhaps.” Arsene smirked.

He settled down next to Kidd.

“So, did Ryuji finally come out to you?” Arsene asked.

“He did, kinda.” Kidd said hesitantly.
“In a “trying to be vague but couldn’t be more obvious, I have this friend” kind of way. I’m pretty sure he knows I know but I don’t want to push him.”

“Was it worth all the effort?” Arsene inquired.

Kidd grinned broadly.
“Hell yeah.”

Arsene smirked. He shifted his wings and wrapped one around Kidd’s back
“I’m sure he feels similarly. I have little doubt you helped him a great deal.”

“Hopefully.” Kidd sighed. “Although…”
He winced. “I did have to explain to him why you called me your ARMOR.”

Arsene stared, confused.
Kidd leaned close to him then.

“Mon amour.” Kidd growled in a low and affectionate rumble.

It was difficult to catch a blush on Arsene’s face but Kidd caught a glimmer of one before his companion facepalmed.

“Oh dear…” Arsene sighed with a chuckle.
“Well at least, I guess, he didn’t assume I called you my CHAIR. But that boy of yours better work on his French.”

“I’ll try.” Kidd said, shaking his head with a laugh.
“He can barely get through his English as is, so we gotta take this one step at a time.”

Kidd and Arsene gazed at the sky in silence for a moment.

“You were gone awhile.” Kidd remarked. “Should I be worried about how exactly you explained our relationship to Ren?”

“I didn’t say much about it.” Arsene replied.
“Ah, okay.” Kidd said in surprise with a shrug.

“Except that our wedding’s fast approaching and that he and Ryuji are invited.” Arsene said plainly.

“What?! You did not!” Kidd snapped.
“Y-Y-You’re making that up!”

Arsene pressed a finger to Kidd’s mouth.
“Shhh. The boys are talking.”

Kidd begrudgingly simmered down while he and Arsene listened in.

“Thanks again, for having me over.” Ryuji chimed.
“I’d be lost on these exams if it weren’t for you and Kidd.”

“No problem.” Ren said.
“You did really well too. I’m proud of you for locking in on your studies.”

“Aww shucks. Oh and thanks for the curry and the latte!” Ryuji added.
“They were so good, dude. Might even give Sojiro a run for his money.”

“Ya think?” Ren smiled with a light blush on his face.
He glanced out the window.

“It’s getting late.“ Ren stated. His tone held a note of sadness within its cadence. “Sojiro still says you’re allowed to stay over but you probably have to head out, right?”

“Actually.” Ryuji said hesitantly.

He thought back to his talk with Kidd.

I’m choosing the flavor of cake I want. Ryuji thought.
And I don’t care what anyone else thinks.

“I-I would like to stay.” Ryuji stuttered.
“If you still want me too.”

Kidd pumped his fist in the air.
ATTA BOY!

Arsene instinctively put a hand on Kidd’s cannon arm so he wouldn’t let it off in his excitement, blanks or no blanks.

Ren gaped.
“Of course you can! But what about your mom? Won’t she worry since it’s so last minute?”

“Naw, I’ll just call her.” Ryuji smiled and shrugged.
“I’m sure it’s fine.”

“Great!” Ren beamed.
“Well, let’s go grab the spare futon. I’ll text Sojiro while you call your mom.”

“On it!” Ryuji chimed.

With that the two boys quickly sprinted downstairs.

Kidd beamed with so much love and pride for Ryuji he thought his jaw bone might split.

“Well, looks like Mission Accomplished Captain.” Arsene said, saluting Kidd using both his hand and his wing.

Kidd grinned at his companion.
“Thanks, partner.”

With a quick salute, Kidd took Arsene in his arms and kissed him.