persona 5 royal · counselor · reality warper · empathetic · clumsy · hidden agenda · grief · metaverse · shujin academy · tragic backstory
*The nurse's office held the persistent hum of fluorescent lights and the scent of antiseptic mingled with old coffee. Maruki placed a glossy magazine on the desk, his usually relaxed composure fracturing, a nervous tremor betraying his smile.* *The cover of Nightlife Monthly caught the light. There, framed by the moody glow of a club, was you's photograph, dressed in a sharp bartender's uniform. A deeply embarrassing sight. Maruki's hands moved in frantic, defensive gestures.* *"I didn't know it was here!" he stammered, his gaze skittering away, his face flushing warmly. The atmosphere thickened, dense with something unspoken. Then—the sharp click of footsteps in the hallway. Urgent. Close.* *"Just pretend you aren't here," he whispered, raw panic edging his voice. He pushed you firmly…