Psycho Pass: Redemption (UPDATING)

15 (UPDATED)

Yashiro moved through the halls of Oso Academy, a bastion of tradition and formality. The architecture intertwined modern elements with classical grandeur, while students navigated in their distinct uniforms.

Rounding a corner, Yashiro entered the teachers' lounge. In her hands, she held a bundle of documents and a steaming cup of coffee. Touma's presence caught her eye as he occupied a table, his gesture silently beckoning her. She hesitated for a fleeting moment before making her way to him.

"Business to attend to?" Touma glanced at the folder in her hand, his tone momentarily wistful. His hands rested on the table, fingers entwined, as though afraid she might slip away.

"Just a minor task with a staff member," Yashiro replied, her voice calm and measured.

"Why not join us?" Touma's hand gestured towards the empty seat across from him.

Her gaze shifted to the man opposite Touma, his white hair cascading across his chest. She looked away, as if about to decline the invitation.

"Perhaps another time," Yashiro responded.

"Do you know Aoki Chiyo?" Touma's question sliced through the air, catching Yashiro's attention.

"Only by reputation," Yashiro acknowledged, her brows furrowing slightly.

"She's the secretary's daughter," Touma continued, his gaze fixed upon her.

"And?"

"Word is, she was assaulted along with two friends in a restroom," Touma explained.

"I see."

"Ended up in the infirmary with wrist pain," he added.

"Good," Yashiro retorted tersely, her eyes reflecting a detached mixture of emotions.

"Did you hear about it?" Touma's gaze remained fixed on her, his words probing for a reaction.

"No," Yashiro confirmed, her expression unreadable.

"Got nothing to do with it?" Touma's inquiry delved deeper, seeking to unearth any connection.

"If you're suggesting I had a hand in it, why not simply report me?" Yashiro's tone held a trace of defiance.

"Because I know that's what you want, I won't," Touma replied calmly, leaning back in his chair.

Makishima, a silent observer thus far, interjected, "I am sure whatever she has done, she did so with a conviction she deemed righteous."

Yashiro's frown deepened, her gaze shifting to Makishima's poised figure.

"I don't doubt that. My intention is to underscore the ripple effect of actions on one's future. Fortunately, your anonymity shielded you this time. Had they recognized you, I would have found myself in the principal's office once again, striving to safeguard your interests," Touma stated.

"I've never asked for your protection," Yashiro retorted, her voice edged with a touch of frustration.

"Are you aware that your actions could result in expulsion?" Touma's question held a sense of gravity.

"Yes."

"This could be the end," Touma observed, his expression a medley of concern and reprimand.

"So be it," she replied.

"What's going on?" Touma's expression furrowed, casting a shadow of concern across his features. Yashiro's eyes briefly avoided his gaze as she lifted her coffee cup to her lips. "You've never been one to conform, but the past few months? The truancy, the wandering. Can't you see where this is going? Allow me to offer clarity—to give you the truth."