"I've heard bits and pieces about the other Shadows. Chie-san said hers was like a 'dominatrix,' and Amagi-san's clearly represented her sense of feeling trapped within the expectations of her community and family legacy."

He leans over the table, propping his cheek up with his right hand. "But it was frustrating, being pushed to accept these feelings. I lucked out, and mine didn't go berserk, but I also had the guidance of some of the people here to ease me into that begrudging acceptance. I'm not quite sure how my older self's experiences compare; he's been rather reluctant to tell me."