2025-08-07: A Strange Accord
- Log: A Strange Accord
- Cast: Shinjiro Aragaki, Julian Marlowe
- Where: Kasugayama High School, Hirasaka Ward, Sumaru City
- OOC Date: August 07, 2025
- IC Date: June 22, 2012
- Summary: Julian finds Shinjiro loitering outside Kasugayama during school hours. What should be a talk to dissuade him turns into a deal to assist each other in investigating the Joker Killer.
<Pose Tracker> Shinjiro Aragaki has posed.
Shinjiro Aragaki should not be at Kasugayama High School. First of all, he doesn't even go there, a Gekkoukan student. Second, after the 'gang attack', he stands out like a sore thumb. Sure, in the past, he was seen by students and faculty alike asking about the Joker Killer, but he didn't cause any problems, so no one saw a reason to do anything but gossip.
Now, during school hours, hanging around the front of the building, he's a problem. One most of the teachers are unwilling to broach, given his clothes (winter clothes in the summer, signs of a weirdo) and look (tall, big, could take a person out with a single punch). So, they delegated.
For now, Shinjiro is sipping a canned coffee as he leans against the wall. He thinks his contact's gonna flake, still too anxious about what happened during the 'raid'. He honestly didn't come for information, but to check on them... it must have been pretty bad if someone got hurt.
<Pose Tracker> Julian Marlowe has posed.
Julian Marlowe knows a thing or two about standing out. Even though he does belong at this school, it's hard to overlook the foreigner among the teachers. Especially since he seems to be making it a point to be seen - many a student has looked off to the side at some point only to see him standing there. Just... watching, with that serene expression of his. He's not trying to unnerve people, but it's certainly had that effect on some people. The students are used to the faculty not caring about what they do. Why is this teacher always keeping an eye on them?
Even if he means well, his methods are perhaps not always the best, let's say. But it is successful in at least one respect. He's learned a lot about student interests, hears a lot of rumors... while it's not always matters of personal interest, it helps to be aware of such things, in his line of work.
It's also the way he became aware of 'that Gekkoukan delinquent hanging about outside the school again'. That's an interesting one. And one that none among the faculty would ever choose to do anything about. None... save one.
And so it is that even a non-Kasu student will find himself looking off to the side only to see Julian standing there. His lips slightly elevate as soon as he's spotted. How long has he been there for?
"Lovely day for a stroll, <Mister> Aragaki," he speaks first, in a friendly enough tone, moving to slowly step closer. "I admit, I'm no expert, as I find the notion of canned coffee rather dreadful, however I do wonder... is there something amiss with the coffee at your own school?"
<Pose Tracker> Shinjiro Aragaki has posed.
As Julian approaches, Shinjiro is actually pretty alert, finishing a drink of his coffee but realizing he's there. He finally turns, nodding to the recognition of his name and the vague recognition of Julian himself.
"No, actually, it's pretty good for school coffee. Rich kid school," he says with a shrug.
Shinjiro sighs, knowing exactly why a teacher would come. "You here to shoo me off? I'm visiting someone, then I'll be gone." During school hours, though, which is probably a bad idea.
Julian might remember that last time Shinjiro met Julian, he showed up at Peace Diner to talk Rumormongering, and then... never reappeared, probably a normal guy. So, Shinjiro has no idea what to think. On the other hand, Julian might remember the last time they met when he was Vesper, Shinjiro was bleeding out of his mouth from the fight, trying to help people he clearly knew and had a history with, including Mitsuru Kirijo.
For one as keen an observer as Julian, he might also realize that Shinjiro's clothes are the *same exact set* he has always worn. They're patched and sewn in places, dirty and dusty. Shinjiro may have slept in a bed last night, but that doesn't change the fact he generally doesn't.
<Pose Tracker> Julian Marlowe has posed.
Julian chuckles at the notion of 'rich kid school', in the context of the boy before him. He has to know how he doesn't match that sort of image at all. Julian would swear he must put effort into not looking the part. ...He's not convinced the coffee would actually be much better if it still comes in a can, but that's neither here nor there. He's a tea man, besides.
"...I see no reason to tell you what to do, <Mister> Aragaki," he states calmly, stopping at a distance more suitable for a private conversation, while leaving plenty of personal space. That much checks out with that time at that diner, he seemed to have no interest in discouraging the plans to sneak into Gekkoukan at night that he was there to overhear. But he is still a teacher. He'd be remiss to not say anything on that matter.
"However, at this time, if this 'someone' is one of our students, they should be in class." His look towards Shinjiro is meaningful, but it doesn't seem he's about to ask 'why aren't you', straight out. He doesn't care about truancy from students at other schools, just about not encouraging it at his own. They get enough of that as it is.
But this too, is ultimately not Julian's primary concern. He's seen all he believes he needs to of Shinjiro, while in the guise of his alter ego. While it may not be clear that Julian already considers him a trustworthy ally, this fact means that there are other subjects that he is much more keen to discuss with Shinjiro.
"Unless," he begins, raising a finger. "This student was not going to class to begin with. Perhaps due to being involved with a certain recent 'incident'?"
<Pose Tracker> Shinjiro Aragaki has posed.
The coffee at the dorm was admittedly better, not that Shinjiro would say that. They used to get the good stuff.
"Good," Shinjiro says in response to Julian not telling him what to do. He probably wouldn't listen. He's worried about someone, so he has to check on them.
Though, at the address that students should be in class at Kasu... "Tch, people go to class here?" A pause. "Guess you're right." Though Shinjiro also notices Julian getting into private conversation distance... and then how he follows up. A teacher shouldn't be talking about that, should he?
But Julian was there for the rumors about Gekkoukan, too, so perhaps he has interest in this stuff.
"My acquaintance is having nightmares over this shit. Like the gang students are trying to get him. I was going to see how he's doing, maybe get some information on my investigation if he had any new leads." The Joker Killer investigation, of course. Everyone knows Shinjiro's investigating, so he's not keeping it secret.
<Pose Tracker> Julian Marlowe has posed.
No doubt Shinjiro would not listen to a word of what anyone tells him to do, that vibe is clear enough to Julian. No... he seems to be the kind who's motivated by what he feels he has to do. Julian knows that type. He's seen it in the mirror before.
His hand moves to his heart in mock-hurt. "It pains me to hear that you have such a low opinion of this school." It's an obvious dig at the school's well-known reputation. Still, "I'm certain that every student here tries the best they can, in what ways they can." He's chosen to have faith. ...in the students, notably, not so much the rest of the faculty.
He sobers up when the topic turns to more serious matters. "Ah... I'm sorry to hear that. I've attempted to do what I can for the students, in my role as guidance counselor. Unfortunately, many of those who were more directly affected have been... unavailable to me."
A teacher should absolutely not be talking about this. No other teacher at Kasugayama would, and he was instructed to downplay the events as well. He's just chosen not to do that, in regards to select individuals.
With a lopsided grin, he adds, "With all due respect, your presence here has been fraying a few nerves as well, given your appearance. Perhaps this is not the best place to hold these meetings, while the school is still highly on edge." That's what he'll say, for the sake of the students. He notably does not say anything about putting a stop to these investigations. In fact...
"Would you be able to share anything, in regards to what your investigations have turned up? I realize you have little reason to trust me, but... I have a vested interest in the well-being of my students." And those of other schools, apparently, if his interest in Fuuka's disappearance was any indication. "And... I do happen to be in a position where I might perhaps be of some assistance, wouldn't you say?"
<Pose Tracker> Shinjiro Aragaki has posed.
"I respect the people here. If you're even out here, that's a little bit of respect to you... at least you've got guts," Shinjiro says, being honest. A teacher willing to talk to him, without calling the cops, is worth respect.
Guidance counselor, huh? Makes sense he cares, at least a little. But with the due respect, Shinjiro frowns. "That's fair. I'll come back after school in the future." Doesn't QUITE solve the problem, but might at least assuage Julian's own misgivings. No, Shinjiro is also more interested in something.
He's interested in his investigations. That's not normal. Maybe that's what he needs... an adult's perspective on what he's got. He won't tell him everything, especially not what he believes the identity is, but...
"The Joker Killer's been acting longer than anyone has thought. If he's who I think he is, he got my orphanage, ten years ago, burned it to the crisp and... took a life. Covered up as an accident, of course." A motive. It's good to start with that. "From what I also know, I presume he has allies. People who would kill to protect him. The police call him Old Maid, but the public calls him the Joker. Most people don't believe it's worth their time, and that the rumor of calling your own phone to summon him to kill someone is bunk."
A beat.
"But the longer this guy's out there, the more people are going to die. It's personal."
<Pose Tracker> Julian Marlowe has posed.
Julian's chuckle is a bit more awkward this time. He's not confirming nor denying having guts. "Let's just say... I believe that a lot of difference can be made if the right people are in the right positions." Besides, his opinions on cops... well, that's ancient history.
He doesn't press his well-meaning advice any further. Stronger insistance after you've already made your point is never helpful, it's ultimately up to the subject what they do with your advice. Counseling 101.
He's honestly a little surprised that Shinjiro is so forthcoming with him. 'Having guts' might have paid off for him here. Though he hates to think of it like this is some sort of accomplishment, or as if he's taking advantage in any way, such thoughts tend to come unbidden. Focus on what's important, Julian. The actual information.
"...the Joker Killer. So you believe he really was involved." That sort of statement could be followed by anything, but all things considered, what should have followed was a stern denial. Instead...
"This will undoubtedly come as no surprise to you, but I have been specifically instructed to speak out against any Joker Killer rumors, in regards to the recent incidents. Gang warfare, that's all it was supposed to be."
Whatever this guy's game may be, he sure is a teacher who'll flat out cop to the fact that the school is trying to cover things up. And refuses to go along with it.
"I may not have as powerful a personal motivation as you do, but I'm all in favor of removing such a dangerous element as soon as possible. I realize this hardly serves as irrefutable evidence, but... perhaps this will serve to convince you that I believe what you're saying."
His right hand slips into his pants pocket, and he withdraws... a uniform patch that belongs to another school, Seven Sisters High. His interest in rumors of a supernatural nature was already clear - if he's carrying this, it implies that he believes in their power as well. And why carry protection from the Joker Killer if you didn't think he was real?
With a perfectly serious expression, he adds, "<Mister> Aragaki. If there is anything you believe I can do to assist, you have but to name it."
<Pose Tracker> Shinjiro Aragaki has posed.
Shinjiro just nods to Julian, though as he replies about the Joker Killer, Shinjiro shrugs. "He could be. He's definitely involved in lots of things."
It's when Julian basically confirms it indirectly that Shinjiro's eyebrows rise. This guy... is being as forthcoming as he is. "If the school's covering it up that hard..." Ugh. Bullshit as usual...
And then the patch comes out. Shinjiro pauses for a long moment, inhaling. Thinking about this. When he exhales, his demeanor... softens, almost imperceptibly, but Julian has a good eye. "Good thought. I don't carry one, but that's because I want to punch the guy."
Julian's final question, though, has his mind racing. Should he trust this guy? Well, he's not giving him all the information, but... perhaps they can help each other. An adult who cares is rare, if he actually cares... but he'll take that gamble. He already trusted Myunghon, after all, and that paid dividends.
Shinjiro takes a long moment to finish his coffee, thinking about what exactly he'll ask for. "If you're not fucking with me? Information. I don't need anything from your counseling sessions, I know those are confidential, but if you pick anything up about all this shit, let me know. In return... anything *I* can do?" He doesn't like one-sided assistance, as he decides to give Julian a way to find him.
"You can find me around Port Island Station, in the alleyways. Ask the shadiest guy you see nearby and he'll point you my way. I've also got a phone. Myunghon Yeo at the Cardboard Dragon can reach me, too."
<Pose Tracker> Julian Marlowe has posed.
That was Julian's thought, as well, which he confirms as much by saying, "I see we are on the same page." Sometimes evidence comes in the form of too strong a denial that the evidence exists. And why has he been given a huge list of students to speak to that doesn't include individuals he knows for a fact were at the heart of it all? Perhaps not everyone is naturally suspicious or willing to risk getting in trouble enough to question it, but... Julian very much is.
Of course Shinjiro would know exactly what it means that he's carrying that around. He doesn't need to specify that the reason he went out of his way to get this wasn't actually to protect himself. What matters is that he believes that it can protect from a threat he considers credible. That message seems to have been well-received.
He bites back words of caution against luring out the Joker Killer. That would probably NOT go over well, given the personal history... and Shinjiro's tendency to put himself in harm's way for the sake of others, which he isn't supposed to have personally witnessed. He may have an interest in all this, but, still just a regular guy here, honest.
He also doesn't interrupt Shinjiro's considerations, standing by patiently until the accord is made, to which he inclines his head. "Of course. It is my hope that I'll be able to uncover things off the record, in which case I will be free to share them." In the context of a counseling session, his hands are indeed tied - he's not breaking that oath.
The counter-offer takes him visibly by surprise, Julian blinking a few times before scratching the side of his head. "I will have to think about that. There are some other matters I'm looking into... I will keep your offer in mind if there is anything I could use your help with."
And won't give away the fact that he was there, that night in Tartarus. There are so many questions he wishes he could ask about that whole situation. Perhaps he could... well, as he said, he'll take some time to consider it. So, the Port Island Station alleyways, or...
"Ah yes, the shop with the delightful books! I have been meaning to pay another visit!" So he blurts out, before remembering, "Ah... assuming that 'gentleman' doesn't get his way, of course." Only a true gentleman can say the word 'gentleman' with that much palpable disdain and still don't outright sound rude.
<Pose Tracker> Shinjiro Aragaki has posed.
They're on the same page... Shinjiro nods firmly. They have the exact same reason to believe the school would be lying (besides the list of students, which he doesn't know of).
As the accord is confirmed, and Julian reveals he's looking into other things... "Thanks. Just don't leave me hanging on that, I don't like getting favors for nothing." He'll give Julian time to think, of course, but eventually, he'll want to do *something* in return.
Though, the conversation shifts to the Cardboard Dragon. "Myunghon's good people. They're helping me investigate." He assumes if Julian has that patch, he also knows Myunghon is a rumormonger. He doesn't touch on the 'gentleman'... but there's anger in his eyes as he thinks about it. Kaneshiro needs to pay.
Shinjiro moves to the nearest trashcan, tossing in his coffee into the recycle. "You should get back to work. Feel free to tell them you scared me off. Might help your rep as a teacher."
<Pose Tracker> Julian Marlowe has posed.
Another chuckle escapes Julian, as it feels as if he was just threatened with kindness. "Very well, not to worry, I'll ensure this will be a matter of equivalent exchange." Just don't pressure him too much, or you might get saddled with hunting down a particularly rare tea blend of some sort.
Julian was certainly aware of 'Merry', but hasn't brought up that side of the business so far... Shinjiro might be surprised how much value he places on his recommendation, he'll be keeping that in mind for the future.
Yes... that look in Shinjiro's eyes when he spoke of Kaneshiro. That's exactly how he knows this is someone he can see eye to eye with.
That, and he doesn't litter. That's important too.
He nods his assent. "Indeed, I was quite cool out here today, they should have seen it." Nope, he can't say that with a straight face, stifling laughter at how ridiculous that sounds coming from him. But that mirth soon leaves him. "You are right, however... I suppose I should finish my paperwork while I still have the chance." Following an exaggerated sigh, he offers a parting greeting in full English, "<Good day, Mister Aragaki.>" before moving to return inside.