P5R: Rebel Girl (A FeMC Story/P5R Rework)
Chapter 245: Futaba's Big Day Out
After dinner that evening, Ren, Futaba, and Sojiro headed out after cleaning up, and checking on Sae. Once they were home, they were settling into their evening routines, getting ready to go to sleep for the next day. As usual, Ren, Morgana, and Sojiro fell asleep, while Futaba stayed up late into the night. Since she was a shut-in, she didn’t really have anything to do, and she liked being up late because it was less noisy. Although, since it was Tokyo, there was still noise, just not as much.
This particular night, Futaba was fishing for information on a potential Mementos target. She had been working a few leads, and now it started to bear fruit. “Alright, I think I got something… Bingo! Yoshito Wakasa. Heh heh. Well, now that we know his name, he’s primed for a visit from us!” She took out her phone to message the others, but then thought “I should wait until morning.”
She yawned. “It’s kind of late anyway. I should maybe get to sleep.” She got out of her computer chair, placed her glasses in their case, and headed for her bed. “Hmmmmm,” she groaned. “If I want to go back to school eventually, I should start going to bed earlier. I do like the stillness of the night though. But I guess being in my room all day, there’s not a lot of motion regardless of time. But I’ve been working on that. But am I ready for it?
I guess you’re never ready for anything. I mean, I doubt that Ren was ready to get arrested and all that. But I have seen her grow as a person. Just like I have. And Kana. Heck, even Sojiro’s changed. Hmmm. I guess things are what you make of them. And maybe with other people, the creation process is…I was going to say ‘better’, but the people that blamed me for mom’s death made it much worse. But with the right people, it’s better.”
She flopped down on her bed, and sighed. “I have gotten a lot better since they stole my heart. But I guess that only happened because I wanted it too, and reached out for help. I also reached out to Kana because I wanted to. I think making my intentions known yields the best results. I should tell Sojiro about wanting to go back to school.
Hmmm. Is there anything else I want right now? I want to bring the people who killed mom to justice, but we’re working on that. I want to know what happens in the next episode of Featherman, but I have to wait. Oh! I know! There’s a new game I want. Maybe I can go down to Akihabara to see if I can get it on my own. Plus, I can see if there’s anything new I can add to my PC repertoire. I tried that before, but after everything that’s happened since, I think this is a good test! Alright, that’s the plan!” She tucked herself in, and fell asleep.
The next day, at breakfast, Futaba looked at Sojiro and said “Sojiro?” Sojiro looked up at her. “Ummm, if it’s possible, I want to start attending school.”
Sojiro smirked. “Of course. It’s not gonna be easy, you know that?”
Futaba nodded. “I know.”
“Hm,” Sojiro grinned. “Well then, we can get started on the process.”
“...Yeah…” Sojiro admitted. “But I didn’t get too far. If you weren’t ready, signing you up for the applications would have been a disaster to say the least.”
“Yeah, I guess that’s true,” Futaba replied.
Ren chuckled. “Well, good luck Futaba!”
Futaba nodded. “Thanks.” They continued eating breakfast.
After Ren and Morgana left for school, and Sojiro left for Leblanc, Futaba was left alone, as usual. However, Futaba was on the verge of doing something drastic. She walked to the front door, looked out, and then took a deep breath. “It’s now or never…” She opened the door, and walked outside. She looked around. Ever since her change of heart, she hung around the neighborhood, so she was used to it. But soon, she would venture outside of it on her own. Still, she knew that even hanging around outside would have been too much for her this time last year, so she knew she was moving up.
She locked the door to her house, and then headed over towards the train station. She was nervous on the train, but she remained vigilant and determined. She kept track of where she was and where she needed to go. Once she got to Akihabara, she left the train in a huff. “Whew! Alright Futaba! That’s step one! Now, time to find that game!” She headed over to the department store in order to find the game she was looking for. She was a little nervous with all of the people around, but she remained determined. She wanted to prove to herself that she could be out in public again, but there was also a part of her that was grateful that this could be a quick in-and-out thing.
She got to the video game section. “Yes!” she muttered to herself. She searched a little bit before finding the game she wanted. She quickly picked it out, paid for it, and then started making her way out. “Heh heh! I can’t WAIT! To go home and play you!” As she continued walking, she saw someone that caught her attention. “Is that…Yusuke?”
Sure enough, it was. He was looking around the place, seeming like he wanted to go somewhere specifically. Futaba curiously approached him. “Yo, Inari!”
Yusuke looked at her. “Futaba?! What are you doing here?”
“What are you doing here?” Futaba asked back. “Don’t you have, like, school or something?”
“Ah, yes, well,” Yusuke began, “we were given some time today to look for inspiration around the city.”
“And you came here?” Futaba asked.
“Well, kind of,” Yusuke explained. “I like people watching, of course. And Akihabara has no shortage of people. It also feels different from other parts of Tokyo. However, I also came here to buy a heater for my dorm room.”
“You don’t have one?” Futaba said.
“Well, I did,” Yusuke replied. “It was left over from when I was living with Madarame. It broke, and when I tried to get it fixed, the person told me it would be outside my price range to fix due to its age.”
“I see…” Futaba said. “I guess it’s for the best. One less piece of Madarame to hold onto, right?”
“Well…I guess,” Yusuke said. “As much as I despise him, I have to admit, he had his positive qualities.”
“Eh?” Futaba wondered.
“My relationship with him is complicated,” Yusuke said. “But I think you have a point. I don’t want to spend money fixing something to keep a part of him.”
“Hmmmm,” Futaba pondered. “I see… Well, um, you want help picking one out? Or at least some company?”
Yusuke nodded. “Sure. I’m sure you have a good idea what heater I should get. After all, you’re cooped up in your room all day. I remember your room having phenomenal AC.”
“Oh, um, well,” Futaba said, “the reason my AC game is on point is because my machines get kinda hot. And since I don’t really open my door that much, the heat kind of permeates the room. SO I don't really use a heater.”
“Huh,” Yusuke reacted. “I…I’m not really a computer person, but I don’t think that’s good for the computer.”
“I take care of my computers!” Futaba countered.
“Ah! My apologies,” Yusuke offered. “Of course I trust you to know how to take care of your machines. But I’m not sure that’s sound advice for someone like me who, as I stated previously, is not a computer person.”
“Mmmmmm,” Futaba responded. “Yeah. Yeah it’s not… But I got it under control!”
“Of course,” Yusuke said. “Shall we have a look then?”
Futaba nodded. “Of course.” The pair went off in search of a heater for Yusuke.
After doing some comparisons, they eventually found a really good one. Yusuke chuckled. “Despite not having a heater in your room, you still came in handy.”
“Well, I knew what heaters Sojiro gets, so it was fairly easy,” Futaba said.
Yusuke smiled. “Still, it was an amazing coincidence that you were here in the first place. Which reminds me, why are you here?”
“Oh, right,” Futaba said. “I wanted to pick up a video game.” She showed off her game.
“Couldn’t you just order it?” Yusuke asked. “Or get it digitally?”
“Well, yes…” Futaba admitted. “But I also wanted to prove to myself that I’ve changed. And that I can go out again.”
“I see,” Yusuke said. “How do you think that went?”
“Well…” Futaba reflected. “I think it went alright. It’s a process, but I managed to get here on my own. I might have been a little more nervous than anticipated, but it was going alright. And when you showed up, I just went with you.”
“Hmmm,” Yusuke said. “Well, it’s good progress at least.”
“Yeah, you’re right,” Futaba admitted. “‘A journey begins with a single step’, right?”
“Of course,” Yusuke agreed. “Still, it was a little odd that we crossed paths. Some good fortune, I imagine.”
“I’ll say,” Futaba replied. She then gave Yusuke a peck on the cheek. Both of them were stunned, and immediately turned a shade of pink. Futaba nervously turned away from Yusuke.
“Futaba?” Yusuke wondered. “Did…did you just kiss me on the cheek?”
Futaba lowered herself a little. “N-No…”
“Then who kissed me on the cheek?” Yusuke asked. “Because I know someone kissed me on the cheek, and I assumed it was you because you’re the closest person to me, but if you didn’t-”
“OK, I did!” Futaba said, turning back in a panic. “But i-it didn’t mean anything!”
“What do you MEAN it didn’t mean anything?” Yusuke retorted.
“I don’t know!” Futaba shouted. “I just kind of did it! …Did you hate it?!”
“I don’t know?!” Yusuke replied.
“Eh?!” Futaba responded.
“I mean, how am I supposed to react?” Yusuke asked.
Futaba looked away sheepishly. “...You…You could say you liked it…”
“I don’t know what ‘it’ is!” Yusuke shouted back. They noticed they were starting to draw a crowd. “...Maybe we should take this elsewhere.”
“Agreed!” Futaba said. They rushed over to the train station. They rode the rails in awkward silence until they hit Central Street in Shibuya. They left, and went to the diner.
After getting some water, Yusuke took a sip, while Futaba downed half her glass. “Guh!” she let out after finishing her chug.
“Are you…alright?” Yusuke asked.
“Yeah…I’m fine…” Futaba said in a staccato that indicated she was not.
“Alllllllllright then…” Yusuke responded. “So, um, about what happened…?”
Futaba groaned. “I knew you were going to bring it up…”
“...Did you not want me too?” Yusuke wondered, confused.
Futaba put her head in her hands. “Ugh.”
Yusuke grew concerned. “If you don’t want to talk about it…”
“No!” Futaba admitted, lifting her head up. “We’ll talk about it…”
“Alright then,” Yusuke replied. “So, um, why?”
Futaba sighed. “I…I’m not 100% sure.”
“Are you sure you want to talk about it?” Yusuke wondered.
“Ugh, this is what I mean!” Futaba said. “Like, I know why I did it to an extent, but I don’t know what it is.”
“OK?” Yusuke wondered.
“I mean,” Futaba started, “I’m out here working on myself, and then you come along, and then we hang out…”
“Would…you have done it if it was someone else from our group?” Yusuke asked. “Haru, for example?”
Futaba hesitated. “I mean, it’s not 100% no, but it would be less likely.”
“Huh,” Yusuke said. “Didn’t expect that one. So, what is it about me?”
“Well…” Futaba began, “I guess…you’re just…kind of free?”
“What?”
“I mean! …I just…feel like you’re always…yourself, you know? And you’re not afraid to be that. And I feel like when I’m with you, I’m not afraid to be myself either. I know I feel like that with everyone else, but…you bring it out in me a lot. I think the only person who brings it out more is Ren, but A. She’s dating someone, and B. She’s…kind of like my sister at this point, and it would feel a little peculiar.”
“I see…” Yusuke said, processing all of this.
“So, um, did you like it?” Futaba wondered.
“Well, I didn’t hate it,” Yusuke said. “But it was a little sudden.”
“...Sorry,” Futaba said.
“No, it’s quite alright,” Yusuke said. “I just wasn’t expecting it. I’m sure if it happens again, I’ll enjoy it more.”
Futaba went face down on the table. “Ughhhhhhhhhhh!” she groaned.
Yusuke took Futaba’s hand. Futaba looked up. “What I mean is I wouldn’t mind trying this again…whatever this is…” Futaba looked at him, confused. “Truth be told, I admire how passionate you are, and how willing you are to keep going.
I can’t say that what happened to me holds a candle to what happened to you, but I see you now, and I am amazed. I know how hard it can be to fight for something like this, but I’ve seen you fighting like Hell, and that’s amazing to me. I think…there is something here…I just don’t know what it is. But I am willing to foster it in order to see what it becomes. That is, if you are too.”
Futaba was stunned. She then smiled. “Yeah. Yeah, I think that’s a good idea.”
“Hmm,” Yusuke smirked. He lifted his glass of water. “To this.”
Futaba did the same. “To this!” They clinked their glasses. Yusuke took another sip, while Futaba finished hers. “Ah!” Yusuke looked at her, and smiled. He knew this was the beginning of something special. And when Futaba caught him smiling, she realized it too.
P5R: Rebel Girl (A FeMC Story/P5R Rework)
Chapter 195: This is Halloween
The next day, as Ren was heading to school, there was a message in the Phantom Thieves group chat. She checked it.
Yusuke: Pardon me. I know today is Hallowen, but does anyone have time to meet after school?
Yusuke: I have a lot on my mind, and I want to discuss it with people.
Haru: Unfortunately, I have to decline.
Haru: There’s an important meeting at Okumura Foods, and I'd like to be a part of it.
Makoto: I can’t make it either.
Makoto: I’m helping someone today.
Futaba: And in case you forgot, I’m busy looking through our notes and contacting Riko and Akechi.
Lena: Oh, be sure to contact Goro first.
Lena: He and I have a date tonight.
Ryuji: Oh, nice!
Ryuji: As it so happens, Ann and I also have a date.
Ann: Yeah, but I’m sure we can help you Yusuke.
Ann: So long as it doesn’t take too long.
Sumire: I can be there too!
Ren: Same.
Ren: And I think if we meet at Leblanc, Morgana can also make it.
Yusuke: Personally, I’d like to meet there as well.
Jose: I’d like to come too, but I promised the theater club something.
Yusuke: Will I see you at the Kosei Halloween party at least?
Jose: Yeah…
Yusuke: I guess I’ll talk to you then.
Jose: Sure.
Lena: I can make it too if we can do it before mine and Goro’s date.
Lena: In case that wasn’t clear.
Yusuke: Alright then.
Yusuke: See you after school.
Ren: See you then!
Ren put her phone away, and continued towards school.
Meanwhile, Futaba was looking through stuff, when she decided to hack back into Akechi’s phone.
???: Greeting Detective Akechi!
???: This is Phantom Thief Alibaba.
Goro: Huh.
Goro: I thought she’d have told you by now.
???: Who are you talking about?
Goro: I gave one of your associates a list of people who I suspect to be Phantom Thieves, and you for sure were on it.
???: Well, maybe you just don’t know my associates then.
???: Because I’ve never heard of this list.
Akechi was frustrated, but didn’t feel like pushing this point at the moment.
Goro: Well, in any case, how goes things on your end?
???: We ran into a few complications.
???: But we shall overcome.
Goro: Do you need my help?
???: Perhaps.
Goro: How may I be of assistance?
???: We need to ratchet up the pressure on the director.
???: He’s planning something, and we need to figure out how to undermine him.
Goro: That seems tricky.
Goro: But I may have a solution.
???: Go on.
Goro: I’ve been tracking down his associates, but none of them have been all too helpful.
Goro: So maybe we should just play into his sense of superiority. We make it look like we aren’t accomplishing anything, and then surprise him when you accomplish your next goal.
???: That…actually works with what we’ve been planning.
Goro: May I ask what that is?
???: Do you still want to arrest us after all this is said and done?
Goro: I see your point.
???: It’s not that we don’t want to work with you further…
Goro: I understand.
Goro: To be honest, I have my own goals that letting you in would complicate.
???: I can imagine.
Goro: Still, I like this balance we are striking.
Goro: Perhaps in another time, another place, we could be good friends.
???: Perhaps.
Goro: Well, good luck on your mission.
???: You too!
Futaba cut off contact with Akechi.
“Hm,” Akechi grinned. “I don’t think I was given wrong information on who ‘Alibaba’ was. Still, I can’t let them know that entirely. I do hope that the director can remain more composed than to let it slip when his back is suddenly against the wall. It’s a bit of a risk, but it’s the easiest way to keep The Phantom Thieves off his trail. Sorry Phantom Thieves, but he’s mine!” Akechi got another message, this time from Lena.
Lena: Hey Goro!
Lena: I’m helping a friend after school, but don’t worry.
Lena: I should be back around 5:30-ish, and I have our costumes ready, so you can just come over.
Goro: Can’t wait! See you then!
Akechi put his phone away and continued onward.
Meanwhile, Futaba sighed, relieved. “I can’t believe he bought that.” She then went back to looking through the various notes Riko had given her.
Afterschool, Yusuke, Ren, Morgana, Sumire, Ann, Ryuji, and Lena met up at Leblanc. “Soooo, what’s this about?” Ryuji asked.
Yusuke hesitated. “...I…know it was the right thing to leave Madarame…but ever since then, I’ve felt torn. When I was living with Madarame, I could think of art purely. But now, I’m being confronted with the reality that if I were to survive in the art world, no, in the world in general, I need to think about other things than art. I have to use my art to survive. In that way, I don’t think I can purely see art ever again. It’s all just a means to an end.”
He looked over at the Sayuri hanging up. “The reason I wanted to come here was to take another look. I have often felt inspired by Sayuri. And knowing its true nature, it’s only more beautiful.” He sighed. “But alas, my mind is so cluttered with the poisonous trappings of everyday life that I don’t think I can create something even half as good.” He looked back at everyone. “So, what do I do?”
Everyone looked at Yusuke. “Um, no offense,” Ryuji said, “but can’t you focus on both?” Yusuke seemed intrigued. “I mean, I started running because I liked it. And I thought if I could be successful enough in track, I could help my mom. So I just kept doing what I loved.”
“Yeah,” Ann said. “Doing what you love is wonderful! I admit that we don’t live in an ideal world, and we do need to focus on how to survive, but if you can do it by doing something you love, then there’s no worry, right?”
“I’m not sure that’s entirely helpful,” Morgana said, “but I get the sentiment. It’s like ‘you’re already doing it, might as well go all in.’ And if a Phantom Thief can’t go all in, well…”
“Huh,” Yusuke said. “I understand.”
“I get that it’s not easy,” Sumire said. “And believe me, even with all the help in the world, there will still be road bumps. But if you are determined to strive forward with your dream, then instead of thinking of the road bumps in a completely negative light, think of how you can use them to your advantage.”
“Yeah,” Lena added. “I mean, I left my home to pursue my dreams. It hasn’t been easy, but I’m still trying. And I’m glad you asked us. Being able to reach out is hard, but I know it’s worth it in the end.”
“Everyone…” Yusuke said.
Ren smirked. “Remember: Kosuke told you to be the best damn artist you could be, right? I bet you’d hate to disappoint him. Or us, for that matter.”
Yusuke started to remember Kosuke’s words after they defeated him. He smirked as well. “Yes. And he told me something else. He said I ‘always had eyes on the bigger picture.’ I guess I just lost sight of it once everything changed. I thought I had to change with it, I suppose I still do, but I think I need to change in a way that suits me, you know?”
“Yeah!” Ryuji said. “Being yourself is what a Phantom Thief is all about!”
“I agree!” Morgana said.
“Hey!” Ann said. “Look at you two getting along!”
“Huh?!” Ryuji and Morgana gasped.
“I mean…We just agree here,” Ryuji said.
“Yeah,” Morgana protested. “It’s not like we’re close or anything.”
“Oh, I doubt that,” Sumire said. “After everything we’ve been through, there’s nothing that can tear us apart. And that includes you two.”
“Well…” Ryuji tried to follow up.
“Hm hm,” Lena giggled. “Even if you butt heads from time to time, you’re still good friends in the end, right?”
“Mreeeee…” Morgana groaned, not wanting to admit it, but being unable to lie.
Yusuke chuckled. He took out a sketchbook and started sketching. He soon presented it to everyone. “Behold!” It was a sketch of Ryuji and Morgana being angry with each other, but in the background was them admiring each other. “I call it ‘Tempest Friendship’.”
“What?!” Morgana shrieked.
“You’re…not going to make that into a full painting, are you?” Ryuji asked.
“I might,” Yusuke said. “But I have a lot of other paintings in mind. But this one is nice.”
“I like it,” Ren said. “It’s a commemoration of you getting out of your slump.”
“Yes,” Yusuke said. “But I still need something more. This is nice, but I want my first full piece to be GLORIOUS!”
“I understand the feeling,” Sumire said. “Once you overcome an obstacle, you want to show the world just what you’re capable of.”
“Yeah!” Lena added. “I know you can do it. You can set the art world on FIRE!”
Yusuke chuckled. “Thank you, everyone. I don’t know where I would be without you.”
“The feeling is mutual,” Ren said.
Emperor-Yusuke Kitagawa: Rank 8
Lena stood up. “Well, I should get going. I need to meet up with Goro to go on our date.” She opened the door. “Bye!”
“We should get going too,” Ann said. “We gotta make sure your costume fits!”
“Co-Costume?” Ryuji said. “I thought we were just hanging out.”
“On Halloween?!” Ann said. “No way! We’re here to have FUN!” She grabbed Ryuji’s arm. “Let’s go!”
“Ah!” Ryuji said, jolting up. “Alright then. Let’s see what you got!” The two of them left.
“I should get going too,” Yusuke said. “I missed last year’s Kosei Halloween Party due to Madarame. I don’t want to miss any more.”
“Take care!” Ren said. She and Yusuke waved at each other as he left. Once he was gone, Ren looked at Sumire. “I’m sorry I didn’t plan anything.”
“Huh?!” Sumire said. “Oh, uh, no, it’s quite alright. Well, I mean…” She sighed. “This is my first Halloween without Kasumi. We always used to do adorable twin costumes. I really liked doing that. I guess I’m not ready to do something big yet…”
Ren grabbed Sumire’s hand. “It’s OK. Just go at your own pace.”
Sumire smiled. “I guess doing a little something with you would be nice.”
Ren chuckled. “I think I know just the thing.” Ren glanced at Morgana. “Are you OK on your own?”
“Please,” Morgana said. “A black cat on Halloween? I couldn’t be more at home. I bet I can find something JUICY!”
Ren nodded. “Just be safe OK? And get back home at a reasonable time.”
“Right!” Morgana said. With that, the three of them left. Morgana headed off in his own direction, while Ren was leading Sumire somewhere.
Meanwhile, Makoto and Eiko arrived at Eiko’s house. “I’m home!” Eiko called out. No response.
“Is no one home?” Makoto wondered.
“No, my mom and brother are home,” Eiko said, pointing at the shoes.
“Oh. Right,” Makoto said. “Sorry…”
“It’s OK,” Eiko said. “You’re the one rescuing me from this after all.”
Makoto smiled. “Right.” They took off their shoes and headed in.
Sure enough, Eiko’s mom and brother were there. Her brother was watching TV, while her mom was baking. “Hi,” Eiko said.
“Oh, Eiko honey,” Eiko’s mom said. “I didn’t hear you come in.”
Eiko glared at her, but kept her composure. “Um, this is my…friend Makoto,” she said, remaining civil. “The girl I told you about.”
“Hm?” Eiko’s mom said, looking over. “Oh that’s right. You said you were moving in with her.”
“That’s right,” Eiko said.
“Um, hello,” Makoto said, unsure of what to expect.
“Hm,” Eiko’s mom said. “Well thank you.” Makoto was surprised. “I’m glad Eiko found a friend like you.”
“Um…thanks…?” Makoto replied.
“I know she can be a handful,” Eiko’s mom said, “but I’m sure you’ll manage. From what I’ve heard, you’re quite capable.”
“Oh, she’s really no trouble at all,” Makoto protested.
“I know you’re trying to be polite,” Eiko’s mom responded, “but we both know that Eiko is…how you say, rambunctious. I mean, look at Asahi over there. He gets good grades. He’s popular at school. He’s the leader of the soccer team. You can tell he’s meant for great things. But Eiko? She bends and breaks so easily. She’s a follower by nature. She barely gets by, and is only friends with miscreants. Er, present company excluded, of course.”
“Of course,” Makoto repeated bitterly.
“But hey, maybe with you, she’ll turn her life around,” Eiko’s mom said.
“Well,” Makoto said firmly, “I think that’s the first thing you’ve said that I agree with.” Eiko’s mom looked at her intently. “But you’re completely wrong about Eiko. She’s smarter than you give her credit for. A lot braver and a lot kinder too. But I think she’s being stifled by your expectations. So that’s why she’ll be in my care from here on.” Eiko was stunned by Makoto’s fiery rebuttal.
Eiko’s mom glared at her. “It’s going to be like that, is it?”
“I’m afraid so,” Makoto replied.
Eiko’s mom went back to baking. “Well, whatever. It’s not like she’s going to be my problem for much longer.”
“The fact that you think of her as a ‘problem’ is very much the reason she’ll be gone soon,” Makoto said. “Though I doubt you ever really thought of her as ‘yours’.”
Eiko’s mom grew more bitter. “Did you just come here to argue with me?”
“As a matter of fact, I didn’t,” Makoto said. “This was just a fun bonus.” Eiko laughed, while Eiko’s mom groaned. “I came over to help Eiko pack a little, and then we’re going to catch a movie.”
“Hm,” Eiko’s mom said. “Well, if you leave before you can taste my Halloween cookies, there won’t be any when you get back.”
“Suit yourself,” Eiko’s mom said. “Like I care at this point.”
“It seems the feeling is mutual,” Makoto said. “Eiko?” Eiko nodded, and they headed over to her room.
On their way, Eiko whispered “Don’t worry. Mom’s cookies suck anyways.”
“And she calls you imperfect,” Makoto whispered back. They shared a giggle before entering Eiko’s room to pack up a little.
Meanwhile, Haru arrived at the boardroom. The members there were shocked, and one of them asked “Erm, Miss Okumura, um, what are you doing here?”
Haru answered with “I know I’m still a student, and I’ve not attended many of these, but now that everything has changed, I wish to take a bigger role in the company. I will start by attending these meetings whenever I can. Of course, I can’t make any policy decisions, but I wish to at least have a voice.”
“But Mis Okumura-”
“Let her stay,” an older gentleman said.
“Takakura!”
“What she said isn’t wrong,” Takakura continued. “Although I wish you didn’t have to worry too much about the company at this stage.”
“I don’t mind,” Haru said. “But as I’ve said before, I’ll inform you of my decision once I come to it. In the meantime, I wish to do whatever I can to help.”
“Very well,” Takakura said. There were some whispers around the table about Takakura’s disposition towards Haru, as well as her father. “Anwyas!” Takakura commanded. Everyone went silent. “If we’re all here, let’s begin.” Everyone nodded. “As you may know, things haven’t been going well since Mr. Okumura’s heart was stolen. But he is no longer a part of this company. We are the future of Okumura Foods, and we have to make sure we salvage this sinking ship. We’re doing all we can to make up for Mr. Okumura’s past transgressions, including that new order that came in just a few days ago, but-”
“Um,” Haru interjected. “What new order?”
Takakura looked at her. “We’ve been ordered to recall and shut down Starfall Coffee.”
“How come?” Haru asked.
“We’re not sure,” another executive said. “All we know is that we’ve been told that there’s a major issue with it.”
“By whom?” Haru wondered.
“The Special Investigations Unit,” another executive answered. “It was found as part of the investigation into your father.”
“Huh,” Haru said. I should tell the others that.
“Anyways!” Takaura said, steering the conversation back on task. “While everything we’re doing to correct the mistakes of the past, it’s imperative that we start thinking about the future of Okumura Foods.”
The future of Okumura Foods, huh… Haru pondered. What do I see for the future?
A little later, Akechi was checking his phone. He saw the news of the Starfall Coffee recall. “Hm. I suppose that was inevitable at this rate. I’m sure he’s already figured something else out by now.”
He arrived at Lena’s house. He knocked on the door. Lena answered. “Goro!” she cheered, leaping into his arms.
“Heh heh,” Goro chuckled. Lena looked up and the two shared a kiss. “I can’t wait to see what you’ve whipped up.”
“Oh right!” Lena said, letting go. “Follow me!” She led him inside. They went up to her room. Lena had two mannequins setup with homemade costumes.
Akechi looked at the masculine mannequin. He saw a formal outfit with a really hairy wig and tail coming off of it. “So, I’m a formal werewolf?”
Lena giggled. “No silly! It’s a couple’s costume. We’re going as Beauty and The Beast.” Lena presented her costume on the feminine mannequin, which was an adaptation of her persona.
“I see,” Akechi replied.
“It’s perfect!” Lena said. “I’ve always loved the story! BUT it works for you as well?”
“Does it?” Akechi wondered.
Lena nodded. “Now we can go out and about in public and nobody will know it’s you because you’re covered in hair.”
“I see,” Akechi said.
“ALSO!” Lena said. “I gave the chestpiece a little bit of padding so you don’t need to wear a binder. I know you shouldn’t wear that all the time.”
“Hm hm. You know, that was quite thoughtful of you,” Akechi said.
“Hm hm. Thanks,” Lena replied.
Akechi smiled. “Well, shall we get changed?”
“Oh!” Lena said, stunned. “Yes! Um, do you need help?”
“I think I can manage,” Akechi said.
“Great!” Lena said.
A few minutes later, both of them were changed and ready to head out. “You know, this costume fits me like a glove,” Akechi noted.
Lena giggled. “Well, you did tell me your measurements.”
“Right,” Akechi said. He offered his hand. “Well then, shall we?”
Lena curtsied. “Let’s. She took Akechi’s hand, and the two of them went off to celebrate.
As they left, Tamako looked on, smiled, sighed, and remarked “Tail as old as time.”
Meanwhile, at Ann’s house. Ryuji was in one of the restrooms. “Does it fit?” Ann called out from outside.
“I think so,” Ryuji said. “It’s a little lose, but I imagine that’s part of it.”
“Yeah,” Ann remarked. “Well come on, let me see!”
Ryuji walked out. He was wearing a slightly ill-fitting green tuxedo jacket and pants, with a maroon shirt underneath, a white bowtie with red polka dots, and a large green hat with a tag sticking out of it reading “In This Style 10/6”. “Hah, this was a GREAT idea!” Ryuji exclaimed. “And this costume is AMAZING!”
Ann giggled. “Thanks.” Ryuji looked at his girlfriend to see her wearing a blue dress with a white apron, black and white stripped stockings, and a black hairband over her head, which was all the way down, since she removed the pigtails. “What do you think of my costume?”
Ryuji smiled. “You look adorable.”
Ann giggled again. “Thanks. So, are you ready to paint the town red?”
“Absolutely!” Ryuji answered. “And I believe that we should party even harder than usual. Not only is it Halloween, but I believe it’s both of our unbirthdays.”
“You’re right,” Ann said. They took each other’s hands and went off to celebrate.
Morgana was walking around town. He saw people celebrating by dressing up and being a little more raucous than usual. Still, he didn’t mind. He loved it when people were having fun. Besides, he was on the prowl for information, and tonight seemed like a night where people were a little more loose-lipped .
Morgana was trekking around when he passed by a police station. He noticed they were throwing out their coffee maker. “Why are we doing this again?” one of the officer’s asked.
“Because,” another officer answered, “the SIU told us to.”
“‘SIU’?” Morgana wondered. “I should get closer.” He stealthed his way to the officers talking.
“I know,” the first officer said. “But it tastes so good!”
“I know Okumura’s Starfall Coffee is good,” the second officer said. “But it’s dangerous.”
“How come?”
The second officer looked around. “Don’t mention this to anyone, but I’ve heard that it’s one of the causes of those mental shutdowns we’ve been looking into.”
“WHAT?!” Morgana shrieked. He slipped from his perch and landed in front of the two officers. He was a little nervous.
The second officer sighed. “It’s just a cat.”
“Yeah,” the first officer said. “Imagine if that was a person. But still, that gives me chills. To think a cup of coffee could make someone go insane. Usually if I don’t get a cup of joe, I go insane.”
“Trust me, you’re plenty insane with or without coffee,” the second officer said.
“HEY!” the first officer shouted. They both went inside.
Morgana sighed, relieved. “I guess…this body has its uses.” He stood up and shook himself off. “I should go home and tell Futaba.” Morgana started heading back.
At Kosei, Yusuke emerged from his dorm room wearing his regular clothes, as well as a set of fake cat ears and cat tail. He moved out to where the party was being held.
Upon arrival, he got a few looks. “Hey, Kitagawa!” said one of the other students, who was wearing a succubus costume. “That’s…an interesting costume.”
“Forgive me,” Yusuke said. “I didn’t have enough money for a full costume.”
“No no, it’s great!” the other student said. “It’s so…you!”
“Why thank you,” Yusuke replied.
“Well, uh, help yourself to some punch,” the other student said. “Oh, and take some sweets too.”
“Hm. Don’t mind if I do,” Yusuke said. As he was getting his food and drink, he turned and asked “Oh, has Jose arrived yet?”
“Um, I don’t think so,” the other student said.
“He told me he was doing something with the theater department,” Yusuke clarified.
“Oh!’ the other student said. “Well, you’ll see him soon then.”
“Huh?” Yusuke wondered.
Suddenly, the front of the room lit up. “It’s starting!” the other student said.
“The Kosei Theater Club proudly presents: The Dance to Summon The Pumpkin Prince!” Yusuke’s attention was focused on the makeshift stage. In the middle of it was a big leaf. The various theater kids, dressed as all sorts of Halloween classics, began dancing around the leaf, attempting to summon The Pumpkin Prince.
Soon, two sides formed, and they began giving each other cues to act and react. Slowly but surely, the leaf started to blossom. Once it fully bloomed, there was a pumpkin in the middle of it. The pumpkin slowly got up, turned around, and revealed himself to be Jose in a pumpkin costume. “THE PUMPKIN PRINCE!” the other performers exclaimed. Jose smiled. There was a round of applause.
Later, Yusuke met up with Jose. “I must say, you did an excellent job.”
“Oh, you saw that, did you?” Jose said, embarrassed.
“Indeed,” Yusuke siad. “I feel inspired.”
“Eh heh,” Jose laughed. “Well, I didn’t do a whole lot. They just needed someone short, and I fit the bill.”
“Nonsense,” Yusuke said. “You were the star of the show.”
“Well…” Jose said.
“Don’t be so modest,” Hifumi said. Yusuke and Jose turned to look at her. She was wearing ancient Japanese regal attire. “You did wonderfully.”
“Thanks,” Jose said.
“Pardon me,” Yusuke said. “Are you supposed to be Queen Himiko?”
Hifumi giggled. “You’re the first person to guess correctly.”
“But it’s so obvious,” Yusuke said.
“Well, you look pretty either way,” Jose remarked.
Hifumi chuckled. “Thanks. You know, you look adorable yourself.”
“Eh heh,” Jose chuckled, blushing. “Oh right.” He looked up to Yusuke. “Do you still need help?”
“You need help?” Hifumi wondered.
“Well, I suppose I could tell you,” Yusuke said. “I’ve sorted things out, but more voices wouldn’t hurt.” He explained his earlier meeting to Jose and Hifumi.
“I see,” Jose said. “Well, to be honest, I think I’d mirror what they said. But I would add that doing something like this is a seeminglessly endless task, but doing so is its own reward.”
“If I may,” Hifumi added, “I think the issue you may be having is that, pardon my bluntness, you don’t really have any immediate family members. I know I’m doing shogi for my father, but…”
Yusuke grinned. “I see. While it is true that I don’t have any relatives, I do have friends, and they’re like a family to me. If I can do it for them, then there’s nothing I can’t do.”
“That’s the spirit!” Jose said.
Hifumi giggled. “I could really use courage like yours.”
“Oh right,” Yusuke said. “Do you-?”
“I’ll figure that out later,” Hifumi said. “Tonight, I just want to have fun. Shall we get more punch?”
“Of course,” Yusuke said. The three of them went off to enjoy the party.
Later, Makoto and Eiko arrived at the movie theater. Makoto sighed. “Sorry. I didn’t realize how bad it was at your place.”
Eiko chuckled. “It’s alright. Besides, I loved seeing you put my mom in her place.”
“Are you sure you don’t want to move tonight?” Makoto said. “Because we can skip the movie, and-”
Eiko shook her head. “It’s alright. I can wait until then.”
Makoto nodded. “Well, if you say so. So, what movie do you want to watch?”
“Well, it’s Halloween, right?” Eiko said. “So something scary!”
“GAH!” Makoto shrieked. Eiko was confused. “Sorry. It’s just…I don’t take to horror too well.”
“Oh!’ Eiko said.
“But if you really want to-”
“Shhhhhhh,” Eiko said, calming her girlfriend down. “It’s OK. I can watch it on my own time. Tonight is about us!” Makoto nodded. “So, what do you want to watch? Maybe a Buchimaru-kun movie.”
“Well, one isn’t playing until December,” Makoto said. “And that’s a special event showing off the classic Christmas with Buchimaru-kun.”
“Woah,” Eiko siad. “I was joking.”
“Oh, uh…” Makoto said, embarrassed.
Eiko chuckled. “It’s fine. I think it’s really cute that you’re into it. Most people would feel like they’re too cool for it. But I still like it as well. Granted, it has been a bit…”
Makoto smiled. “Thanks.”
Eiko smiled back. “But, is it anything like that, or Buchimaru-kun specifically?”
“Well, I like similar shows,” Makoto said. “But Buchimaru-kun just resonates with me. Always has.”
“How come?” Eiko asked.
“I’m not entirely sure,” Makoto said. She noticed one of the posters. “Oh look! Like a Dragon is playing! Are you up for some hard-boiled action?!” Eiko was stunned. “Oh. I guess not.”
“No no no no,” Eiko replied. “I, um, I really like that kind of stuff. But I’ve never told anyone because it doesn’t seem ‘girly’ enough, you know?”
“Hm,” Makoto said. “Well, women can appreciate all sorts of things, right?”
Eiko smiled and blushed. “Yeah.”
They went up to the ticket booth. “Two for Like a Dragon,” Makoto said. They got their tickets, and headed in.
Meanwhile, Ren took Sumire up to Shinjuku. Sumire was a little nervous. “Are you sure about this? Shinjuku isn’t known for its restraint.”
“Trust me,” Ren said. “We’re going straight there, spend a little time, and then we’ll be out. Besides, one of my friends runs it.”
“Well, if it’s one of your friends, I trust you,” Sumire said. They held hands as Ren led the way.
They soon arrived at Chihaya’s fortune telling booth. “Ah, hello,” Chihaya said.
“Hi,” Ren said. “This is… There’s no point in me hiding it, is there?”
Chihaya giggled. “I foretold that you were coming with your lover. So unless there is a boy hiding in the shadows somewhere...”
Ren sighed. “No, you got us.” Chihaya giggled again.
“Um, who is this?” Sumire wondered.
“Oh, forgive me,” Chihaya said. “My name is Chihaya Mifune. I’m a fortune teller.”
“I see,” Sumire said. “And a very good one at that, I can tell.”
“Hm hm,” Chihaya chuckled. “So, what brings you here tonight, of all nights?”
“Well, um, Sumire isn’t 100% in the Halloween spirit, but I convinced her to do something a little fun. So perhaps she could have her fortune read?”
“I see,” Chihaya said. She turned to Sumire. “Are you alright with this?”
“Well, if Ren trusts you, I trust you,” Sumire said.
“Very well,” Chihaya said. She and Sumire set up the reading. Chihaya drew three cards. “I see.” She flipped the first one. “The Fool, upright. It tells that you are about to embark on a new journey.”
“Huh,” Sumire said.
Chihaya flipped the second card. “The Faith, upright. This journey will help you realize your true potential and do away with the lies of the past.”
“I see…” Sumire said.
Chihaya flipped the last part. “The Hunger, in reverse. This journey will end once the forces that try to suppress you are revealed to be nothing more than a shadow of lies and deceit. Only then will the truth come to you.”
“Hmmm,” Sumire said. “Well, that was a little intense…” Ren was a little worried. “But it was interesting.” Ren was relieved. “And given your penchant for seeing the truth, I imagine something like that happening.”
“Do you know what it is?” Chihahya asked.
“I have an idea,” Sumire said. “But it’s rather personal…”
“Say no more,” Chihaya said. “Just know I’ll be rooting for you.”
“Thanks,” Sumire said. “Oh, how much do I owe you?”
“Don’t worry,” Chihaya said. “This one’s on the house.”
Ren was stunned. “But, um, you know?” Sumire was confused.
“Don’t worry,” Chihaya said. “It will be alright in the end.”
Sumire looked at her. “Are you also undertaking a journey?”
Chihaya nodded. “And I know I’m coming up to a crossroads soon. I just have to believe in myself.”
“Well, you know I’m here for you,” Ren said.
“Me too,” Sumire replied.
“Thanks,” Chihaya said. “I think I’m going to need it.” She turned to Ren. “Especially from you.” Ren nodded.
“Um, if you believe in Ren as much as I do,” Sumire noted, “then I think things will go well for you.”
Chihaya giggled. “Well, I can’t believe in her as much as you do.” Sumire slightly blushed. “But I can tell that Ren is a force to be reckoned with.”
“Well, Sumire’s no slouch either,” Ren said.
“I can see that,” Chihaya said. “And if the two of you are together, then you’d be unstoppable.”
Ren smiled and blushed. “Thanks.”
Fortune-Chihaya Mifune: Rank 6
“So, do you want to stay and watch some other fortunes being read?” Ren asked.
“You should go…” Chihaya said. “Not that you wouldn’t be interested, but Halloween in Shinjuku attracts more of the bizarre crowd.”
“I think she’s right,” Sumire said. “But I had fun.”
“Well that’s all I need to hear,” Ren said. “Bye!”
“It was nice meeting you!” Sumire said.
“Bye bye you two!” Chihaya said. Ren and Sumire left. They shared a kiss before getting on the train.
Ryuji and Ann were still out and about having fun. "Man, this is the BEST Halloween I've ever had! Thanks for dragging me out!"
"Hm hm, no problem," Ann said. "To be honest, I think this is the best Halloween I've ever had too."
"No kiddin'?" Ryuji said. "Well, I know one thing that'll make it even better."
"You read my mind," Ann said. The two shared a kiss.
As Akechi and Lena were heading back, Lena leaned on Akechi’s shoulder. “Tonight was fun.”
“Indeed,” Akechi replied. “To be honest, I never really liked Halloween before. I didn’t like some of the costumes I was given, but, well, you know why.” Lena chuckled. “And then after getting big, I didn’t have time or couldn’t get a costume to hide me enough” He looked deep into Lena’s eyes. “But tonight was really fun. And I feel like with you, I can enjoy anything.”
“Oh, stop!” Lena said. They were both blushing.
“This is a really nice costume,” Akechi said. “I wonder what you’ll come up with in the future.”
“Right…” Lena said. Do we have a future? Am I going home? She looked up at Akechi. Or is this my home?
Meanwhile, Akechi was distracted with his own thoughts. I can’t let her know I’ll probably be busy. Once the plan is set in motion, I might not have time for big stuff like this. But I’m sure she’ll understand. I just need everything in place.
He looked back at Lena. He leaned in, and Lena met him for a kiss. “Happy Halloween,” Akechi said.
“Happy Halloween,” Lena replied. The two continued onward.
Once Haru got out of the meeting, she got out her phone.
Haru: Everyone! I have some big news!
Haru: The SIU told Okumura Foods to recall its Starfall Coffee venture.
Haru: Something has to be up.
Futaba: Already know!
Futaba: Morgana overheard some police officers talking about it.
Futaba: He said that they heard they were causing the mental shutdowns!
Haru: WHAT?!
Sumire: That’s absurd!
Futaba: Maybe, but nothing about this case is “normal”.
Sumire: I guess you’re right.
Yusuke: Have you talked with Riko yet?
Futaba: Not yet.
Futaba: I was looking over my mom’s notes, and the notes about the director.
Futaba: I lost track of time.
Ren: It’s OK. Now we have something else.
Ren: Something big!
Futaba: Right. I’m on it!
Jose: What else did you find?
Futaba: The director is a very crafty person.
Futaba: His profile is full of twists and turns.
Futaba: I imagine that if he did kill his wife, he’d know how to make it look incidental.
Futaba: As for mom’s notes, I found something interesting.
Futaba: Apparently if you amass enough fame, you can tap into the collective unconscious.
Sumire: Mementos!
Jose: But if whoever killed your mom has these notes…
Futaba: That’s what I figured.
Futaba: We’re not the only ones in there.
Yusuke: Do you think it has anything to do with that body of water?
Futaba: Probably.
Ren: We should check, just to be sure.
Futaba: Right.
Futaba: Anyways, Haru, can you get the schematic for Starfall?
Haru: I don't think so.
Haru: I’m not great with computers to begin with, and I don’t think I’d have access to something like that.
Futaba: Plan B then.
Futaba: Come over, and I’ll give you the Futaba special. I’ll take care of the rest.
Haru: Got it.
Ren: See you all later!
Futaba: Seeya!
Futaba then went to work contacting Riko.
Futaba: Riko!
Futaba: Something big just happened.
Riko: What is it?
Futaba: Did you know that the SIU instructed a recall on Okumura Foods Starfall Coffee?
Riko: I was.
Riko: Sae told me about that.
Futaba: Well, it turns out that it’s because somehow Starfall Coffee is causing the mental shutdowns.
Riko: Oh right.
Riko: The director mentioned that.
Futaba: And you forgot?!
Riko: Forgive me. A lot was happening.
Riko: The fake calling card, Eirs, it was a lot to process.
Futaba: Well, I can’t say I blame you.
Futaba: BUT we have an idea as to how this was being used.
Riko: Go on.
Futaba: Well, looking through my mom’s notes, there’s a special concoction you can make to infiltrate people’s hearts. But you need to get them to ingest the blood of the person infiltrating after they drank it.
Futaba: So I suspect that Starfall Coffee was the means to do just that.
Riko: That seems like a lot.
Futaba: Right, but if this organization is so big to include Madarame, Kaneshiro, Okumura, and Principal Kobayakawa, they may have more numbers at their disposal.
Futaba: You don’t need a lot of blood, you need a lot of people.
Riko: I see.
Riko: Want me to get the schematics for Starfall Coffee?
Futaba: I'm on that on my end.
Futaba: But I do need you to do something.
Riko: What is it?
Futaba: Can you get the file on the murder case involving the director’s son?
Futaba: We suspect that he may have been involved, and that maybe he also murdered his wife.
Riko: Oh my!
Riko: I’m on it!
Riko: Oh, and I have a plan.
Futaba: You do?
Riko: Yeah. I asked Sae last night about what happens if you challenge her.
Riko: She told me that if that happens, she’s confronting the director.
Riko: She believes that once you’re done with her, you’ll meet up with him somehow.
Futaba: So we know where she’ll be.
Riko: And you told me when.
Riko: So all that’s left is to figure out what comes next.
Futaba: Right.
Futaba: Well, regardless, we need a way for Sae to get out.
Futaba: I think I have an idea for that.
Riko: We do need to fish for more information from the director too.
Futaba: Right. Akechi said not to ruffle any feathers until it’s time to strike.
Riko: You’re in contact with Akechi?
Futaba: Tentatively.
Futaba: It’s an uneasy alliance.
Riko: I see.
Riko: Well, regardless, I think I know a way to get some information once things go off.
Futaba: It can't involve us, because we’ll be busy in Sae’s palace.
Riko: Right.
Riko: My plan still works then.
Futaba: Well then, let’s see if our plans can work in tandem.
Riko: OK!
The two of them discussed their plan. Once they finished…
Futaba: Damn! You’re really clever.
Riko: Thanks.
Riko: You’re really smart yourself.
Futaba: Thanks.
Futaba: Now all we have to do is make sure we do well protecting Sae, while also making her see the error of her ways.
Riko: You have my confidence on that front.
Futaba: Thanks.
Futaba: Goodnight!
Riko: Happy Halloween!
Futaba: Happy Halloween!
Riko put her phone away. She began looking through more notes.
Sae came out of her office. Riko looked up. “Oh, how are you doing?”
“I’m feeling great! Sae said. “This upcoming trial will be easy, and soon I’ll have The Phantom Thieves in my grasp. Hm. You know, I saw a bunch of people dress up as Phantom Thieves today. Thinking that they’re heroes.”
“Well hold on,” Riko said. “People dress up as villains too.”
“I guess that’s true,” Sae said.
“Phantom Thieves aside, how do you feel about Halloween?” Riko said. “I wasn’t too big on it as a kid, but when I grew up and could pick what I wanted to dress as, I suddenly got it.”
“A late bloomer, I see,” Sae noted.
“Yeah…” Riko said. “That.”
“Hm,” Sae said. “Well, I’ve always liked Halloween. But lately, I haven’t had the time for it.”
“I see,” Riko said. “It is busy here, huh.”
“Well, there are occasions where things let up,” Sae said. “Last year, I got out of work early and dressed up as a werewolf.”
"Ooo. Spooky," Riko remarked.
“Eh, not really,” Sae said. “It was kind of a last minute thing.”
“Oh, that’s easy,” Riko said. “One year, I wore this immaculate female Vampire costume. It just felt so GOOD, you know?”
“Hm hm. You didn’t need to add ‘female’ to that,” Sae pointed out.
“Oh, uh, right…” Riko said, nervous. “Well, what about you? What was your favorite costume?”
Sae paused. “Don’t laugh.” She sighed. “It was Makoto’s first Halloween. I wanted to dress up as something spooky, but my parents were worried that would upset Makoto. So they made me wear this Buchimaru-kun costume. I hated it. I was miserable for the first few hours.
But then there was a loud noise. My parents were worried that something bad happened to the neighbors, and rushed outside to check on them, leaving me with Makoto. Suddenly, I was alone with her. Carrying her. I was so nervous. I did my best, but I was so unsure of myself.
But you know what she did? She smiled. That was the first time Makoto smiled at me. My parents came back and assured me that everything was alright. They noticed me taking care of Makoto, and I got to do a lot of things. I fed her. I burped her. I played with her. It was nice.
So that’s why that’s my favorite costume. I don’t know why I’m telling you that. Usually, I say it’s the one time I went as the Black Featherman.”
“Hmmm,” Riko said. “You know, I’m partial to Pink myself.”
“I figured you would be,” Sae said.
“But that story was really sweet,” Riko said. “And don’t worry, I won’t say anything.”
Sae smiled. “Thanks. Let’s go home.” Riko nodded, and the two headed off. As they were leaving, Sae glanced at Riko. Alright Sae. It’s a deal. Once I’ve captured The Phantom thieves, I’m asking her out!
As Ren was on the train heading to school, she messaged the group.
Ren: I think we should meet to discuss Akechi’s list, and tackle Sae’s palace today.
Makoto: Good thinking.
Sumire: I’m a little concerned about everything.
Sumire: I mean, this isn’t a usual palace by any stretch of the imagination.
Yusuke: True, but we can’t afford to do nothing either.
Ryuji: I’m sure once we figure out our infiltration route we’ll figure out how to tackle things on this side.
Haru: I think we need some level of contingency.
Haru: I mean, the slightest error, and things will go to Hell in a handbasket.
Futaba: I think any outside factors might need to involve Riko.
Ren You’re right about that.
Ren: I think we should save all of this for when we meet up.
Ryuji: Right.
Ryuji: Seeya then
Ren: Seeya!
Ren put her phone away, and went to school.
After school, the Thieves were at Leblanc. Makoto took out the piece of paper Akechi gave her. “So, this is Akechi’s sus list,” She exclaimed.
Everyone looked over it. “Woah!” Futaba responded.
“I have to admit,” Morgana said, “that Akechi is no slouch.”
“But I’m not on this list anywhere,” Lena said.
“Well, yeah,” Ann said. “I don’t think he has a reason to suspect you.”
“Or maybe he’s blind because of your relationship?” Ryuji pondered.
“I don’t think Akechi would be like that though,” Ren remarked. “I mean, he still suspects me, despite how close we are.”
“Yeah,” Lena said. “I think he’d suspect anyone regardless of how close he is with them.”
“Well, it doesn’t seem like he has any hard proof,” Jose said.
“Still, we should be cautious,” Yusuke said. “One false move, and we’ll play straight into his hands.”
“How does he know my online handle?!” Futaba wondered.
“Well, we did see him in Akihabara,” Ann said.
“Yeah, he said he was searching for information on someone who could take down Medjed,” Lena added.
“Hmph,” Futaba pouted. “I guess it’s time for a name change.”
“Hold on,” Ren said. “Maybe not yet.”
“Huh?! Why not?” Futaba wondered.
“If you change your name and contact Akechi, he’ll know you saw this,” Ren said. “If we want to maintain deniability, you have to pretend not to have seen this list.”
“I guess…” Futaba said.
“Do we need to keep in contact with Akechi?” Haru wondered.
“I think randomly severing contact with him would be suspicious as well,” Morgana said.
“Besides,” Sumire said, “we have a lot of things on our plate. As much as Akechi stands against us, we need all the help we can get.”
“I guess that’s true,” Haru said.
“Oh yeah,” Jose said, “how are things coming along looking into what Riko sent you?”
“Well…” Futaba began, “the information my mother gave me will take some time. I understand some of it, but it is a little more advanced than I anticipated.”
“Well, what do you know?” Sumire asked.
“Hmmm,” Futaba pondered. “Some of it is stuff we know. The metaverse, its relationship to the real world, stuff like that. But there’s something I don’t quite understand.”
“What is it?” Makoto wondered.
“Well…” Futaba said. “There’s something in there about influencing the metaverse.” Everyone was shocked. “I think it has something to do with that mysterious figure of the SIU director we saw. But the process seems…confusing.”
“Maybe we can help,” Ann offered.
“Yeah, some of us have been doing this for six months,” Ryuji said. “Maybe we’ll know something.”
“Well… Hmmm,” Futaba reacted. “So, from what I understand, if you’re not someone like us who can access the Metaverse, you need this specific formula, and then you need to lace the formula with your DNA somehow, and give it to someone to ingest.” Everyone who was in Futaba’s palace went pale. “But I’m not sure how they would go about doing that.”
“Um, Futaba?” Ren said. “I think we know a way.”
“Huh?” Futaba wondered.
Ren continued, “We saw something like that in your palace.”
“You did?!” Futaba shrieked.
Ren nodded. “So, what happened was, the Will Seeds we found in your palace belonged to your mom.”
“Huh?!”
“Once we had all of them, we saw an image of your mom drinking a concoction, and then dripped some of her blood into your food so you ate it.” Futaba was starting to get dizzy.
“I don’t think she was trying to hurt you,” Ann said.
“Yeah!” Ryuji jumped in. “From what I remember, she was apologizing to you for doing it. She wanted you to be her light, or something.”
“How then?” Futaba said.
“The sphinx,” Morgana said. Everyone looked at him. “The sphinx that took the image of your mom. That was what she left behind in that moment.”
“But why didn’t it make contact in the intervening two years?” Jose said.
“If I had to guess,” Yusuke said, “it probably has something to do with Futaba shutting herself out from the rest of the world.” Futaba smacked Yusuke. “Ow!”
“I think he’s right though,” Sumire said. “Remember, it took three of us to break the shell of the palace with the ballista. I imagine Futaba needing to reach out for help was a catalyst.”
“Plus, it was flying around outside,” Ren said. “I imagine that Futaba being in the pyramid hindered that a little.”
“Hmmm,” Futaba said. “Sorry Inari.”
“It’s fine,” Yusuke said.
“Maybe you could work on some tact,” Makoto pointed out.
“Perhaps,” Yusuke said. “But maybe Futaba working on her social interactions could be helpful too.”
“HEY!” Futaba protested. “I’m TRYING!”
“My apologies.”
“Like she said,” Ryuji added. “Tact.”
“Well…” Lena said, trying to steer the conversation back on track, “maybe we should relay that to Riko. See if she knows anything.”
“Yeah,” Makoto said. “It’s one thing to do it to someone you know, but these mental shutdowns are seemingly random at best.”
“True,” Morgana said. “Plus we should check in to see how things are going with Akechi.”
“Right!” Futaba said. “But don’t we have a palace to get into first?”
“You’re right,” Makoto said. “Let’s go.”
They started to leave, when Yusuke said “Hang on.” Everyone looked at him. “Didn’t Riko also send you information on the director?”
“Oh yeah,” Futba said. “Well, to be honest, the information seems, well, rather quaint.”
“Huh,” Yusuke said.
“He seems like he’s almost average,” Futaba said.
“Almost?” Haru wondered.
“Well, he is the leader of the Special Investigations Unit,” Futaba clarified. “Calling someone like that ‘average’ is a bit of a disservice. He has all sorts of connections to all sorts of people.”
“Maybe therein lies the game,” Morgana pointed out. “Maybe in one of his relationships is a secret of his.”
“Maybe…” Ren said. “This is going to sound a little weird, but I know one of his sons was arrested for murdering their wife.”
“I read about that too,” Futaba noted. “But that seemed a little removed from his purview.”
“But…if it wasn’t?” Ren said, trying not to involve Yumeko too much.
“Hmmm. Well, if it wasn’t...” Futaba pondered, “...I’m not sure.”
“Well, what else can you tell us about his family?” Ryuji asked. “I mean, one of his kids murdered their wife. But is that a pattern, or is it just him specifically?”
“It is just him specifically,” Futaba said. “All the rest of his kids are married, and between the five of his kids, the director has 17 grandchildren.”
“What about his wife?” Yusuke wondered. “Do you know anything about her?”
“Yeah. Um, she’s dead,” Futaba said, solemnly.
“WHAT?!” everyone shrieked.
“She suddenly got sick and died,” Futaba said. “I don’t know what else to tell you.”
“How sudden was it?” Ren inquired.
“What do you mean?” Futaba said.
“Well…without giving too much away,” Ren answered, “I know the grandchild whose mother was killed, and they believe that he played a part in it.”
Everyone was stunned. Makoto spoke up. “So, what you’re saying is…?”
Ren nodded. “Maybe he killed his wife and talked his son through killing his wife too.”
“Hmmmm,” Futaba pondered. “Maybe.”
“Wouldn’t that be hard to prove though?” Jose asked.
“Probably,” Futaba said. “This is all speculation on our part.”
“But we’re not alone in looking through things,” Haru said. “Maybe Riko could figure out something we don’t know if we point her in a direction.”
“I guess that’s true,” Futaba said. “But I think we need to head into the palace first. Perhaps we’ll find something else there that’ll help us make our next move. Besides, I’ve only scratched the surface on these documents.”
“We have a little while as it is,” Makoto remarked. “I think that’s a smart idea.”
Ren nodded. “Then let’s head out.” Everyone else nodded, and they headed off to Sae’s palace.
Upon arrival, Futaba noticed the mysterious figure and analyzed it quickly. “Hmmmm. Still hasn’t gone in.”
“It’s waiting for us to make our move, right?” Morgana said.
“Yeah,” Futaba said. “But you can never be too careful.”
“Perhaps that’s something to think about,” Haru suggested. “We’re not only working to save Sae from Eris, but this guy too, right?”
“Correct,” Makoto said. “But how do we fight something like that?”
“Maybe your mom has something in her notes?” Lena offered.
“Maybe,” Futaba said. “But I’d need to dive REALLY deep into her notes.”
“I think putting off the heist until the last possible moment would be good anyway,” Ren said. “This is going to be different than anything we’ve faced before. We need to be as prepared as we can be.”
“I see,” Futaba said.
“Well, no sense in worrying right now,” Ryuji said. “Right now, we have to make our way through this place.” Everyone nodded. They made their way to the room they found themselves in last time.
They looked at the elevator. “We still need a member’s card,” Jose remarked.
“I doubt they’d just give us one,” Yusuke added.
“Well, maybe we can find one,” Ann wondered. “I’m sure there has to be a place here to get one.”
“Probably,” Futaba said. “I’d wager there’s a back room somewhere.”
“Well then, let’s get looking,” Ren instructed. As they ventured around, they found the back room behind some guards they easily took out.
Plastered all over the walls were slogans and platitudes about how women are superior to men, yet oppressed by them, and with the coming of Sae’s “New World Order” that was going to change. “OooooooooKaaaaaaay,” Ryuji said, nervously.
“So somewhere in here, we’ll be able to get a member’s card, right?” Lena wondered.
“Yeah,” Futaba said.
“I don’t think it’ll be easy to get there though,” Makoto said. “Sis is very protective of things.”
“So we just have to do what we usually do,” Ren said, stretching her arms to crack her knuckles. “Seems simple enough.” The thieves maneuvered through the back rooms of the fashion show.
After going through the deeper parts of the back rooms, Morgana’s ears twitched. “Hold on. I sense a Will Seed in the area.”
“Really?”! Haru wondered.
“Let’s see if we can’t find it,” Ann said.
They ventured on, only to see the Will Seed door behind some bars. “DAMMIT!” Ryuji called out.
“Wait!” Ann said. “Look!” She pointed out a scanner. “Maybe if we get a key card, we can get through.”
“It’d probably be helpful for the rest of the palace as well,” Jose said.
“Perhaps,” Yusuke said. “But we may need to find a plethora of these. Don’t underestimate a palace ruler’s paranoia.”
“Especially one who’s also been taken over by Eris,” Futaba added.
“Hmmmm,” Haru pondered.
“Well, it couldn’t hurt,” Lena pointed out.
“True,” Ren said. “But now we need to find it. Let’s keep moving.” They all nodded, and they kept moving.
Soon, they spotted a powerful-looking shadow. They managed to hide. “Say, do you think that they might have the keycard?” Sumire wondered. “They seem powerful.”
“Well, there's only one way to find out,” Ryuji said. “Unless you think we can get to the place behind them.”
“We could,” Ren said, “But I imagine we’ll cross paths sooner or later. Besides, we’re still relatively close to the Will Seed. Let’s not waste too much time.” Everyone nodded, and bum rushed the shadow. Despite it being a pretty tough fight, the Phantom Thieves won out.
Jose picked up a card. “Look!”
“Way to go Jose!” Sumire said.
“Well done!” Haru added.
“Alright,” Morgana said. “Now that we have that, we should be able to get that first Will Seed.” The thieves nodded, and headed back.
They presented the card, raising the barriers to the Will Seed Door. They pressed themselves further in, opening the Will Seed door and heading in. “Um, are you going to be OK Queen?” Sumire asked.
“Why do you ask?” Makoto replied.
“Well…this is your sister…” Sumire answered. “I know there’s a bit of a distance between you two, but this might get…”
Makoto sighed. “I know this probably won’t be easy, but we have to do this. Otherwise we can’t call ourselves Phantom Thieves.” Sumire needed.
“Well, let’s see what we’re getting into,” Ren said, picking up the first Will Seed.
Suddenly, the voice of a young girl crying started ringing through the room.
“What’s this?!” Yusuke wondered.
Suddenly, a gentle female voice came in. “Sae sweetie. Don’t cry.”
“Mom?!” Makoto reacted.
“But…but you’re…” a younger voice jumped in.
“And that sounds like sis when she was younger,” Makoto clarified.
“I know,” Aki said. “But I don’t want you to be sad, OK? Come here. … I love you. Don’t forget that.”
“I won’t,” young Sae said. “I promise. … I’m going to miss you.”
“And I’ll miss you too. I’ll miss you, Makoto, your father…” Aki replied. “But I’ll always be by your side. … I’m going to need you to look after Makoto OK?”
“OK,” young Sae said.
“That’s my girl,” Aki said. She coughed.
“MOM!” young Sae called out.
“I’m fine,” Aki said. “I’m fine… Listen… There is good in this world. Don’t ever forget that.”
“I won’t,” young Sae replied. “I promise.”
“Thank you,” Aki said.
A door opened. “Alright,” said a man’s voice.
“Dad?!” Makoto wondered.
“I think we should let mom rest,” Nobuyuki said.
“But-” young Sae interjected.
“It’s alright sweetie,” Aki said. “It’s alright.” There was some silence, followed by a set of footsteps.
Young Sae started to cry again. “Mom! How could this happen?” She sniffled. “I’ll watch over Makoto. But that can't be everything! So for you mom, I’m going to be the best defense attorney the world has ever seen! So don’t you worry!”
“Huh?!” Ryuji wondered.
“Sis…?” a young Makoto asked. “Is everything alright?”
The sound of young Sae lifting young Makoto up filled the room, followed by young Sae saying “Everything will be fine. Because no matter what, I’ll always be there for you.”
The voices came to an end. “Huh,” Futaba reacted. “That was…something…”
“Yeah…” Lena added.
“But, um, what did she mean by becoming ‘the best defense attorney’?” Ryuji wondered.
“She’s a prosecutor, right?” Haru wondered.
“Well…” Makoto explained. “My mother was a defense attorney. And for a while, my sister wanted to be a defense attorney just like her.”
“What happened?” Jose asked.
“It's a little fuzzy, Makoto said, " but I think around the time my dad died, my sister wanted something a little more respectable and steady, since she also had to take care of me. She didn’t want anything weighing her down.”
“Well, I suspect that the existence of this palace proves that something is weighing her down,” Sumire said.
“I agree,” Makoto said. “Which is all the more reason to steal her treasure.”
There was a solemn silence before Ren instructed, “Let’s keep moving.” They all left, and kept pressing through the palace.
Soon, they came across another door that required the keycard. Once it was opened, “Ann rejoiced “Yay! It’s open!” They found themselves face to face with a vent.
Just outside the window were two tough looking guards. “Glad we don’t have to go through them,” Ryuji remarked.
“Being a thief has its advantages,” Morgana said. They all began sliding through the vent to get to the control room on the other side.
“Alright,” Futaba noted, “the terminal we need is just beyond there.”
“There seems to be someone guarding it,” Lena pointed out.
“Well, we can’t avoid every fight,” Morgana lamented. “Let’s make this quick.” The thieves ambushed the guard and took him out.
“BOOYAH!” Futaba called out. “Now it’s my time to shine!” She approached the terminal and began cracking. Once she finished, she presented two things. “First off, here’s a map of the building.”
Ren grabbed it. “Thanks.”
“But also…” Futaba hyped up. “Ta-da! A member’s card!”
“Good work, Oracle!” Yusuke congratulated.
“Thanks,” Futaba said. “I didn’t know what name to give it, so I went with Taro Tanaka.”
“Um, isn’t that a bit obvious?” Ryuji wondered.
“Well, they know we’re here,” Jose pointed out.
“True,” Futaba said. “She is practically challenging us. Then again, better to be safe than sorry. Hold on.” Futaba got to work making another card. “OK, this one belongs to a Shinji Nakanomatsu. How’s that?”
“That works,” Ryuji said.
“Um, maybe we shouldn’t make too many,” Haru said. “They might get a little suspicious.”
“Good thinking,” Futaba said. “Noir! Take the Taro Tanaka card and get rid of it.”
“Huh?!” Haru wondered. “Why me?”
“Well, this kind of stuff usually falls on the newbie of the group.”
“Hey come on,” Ren said. “We’re all equals here.”
“It’s OK, Joker,” Haru said. “I’ll take care of it.”
Ren was a little surprised, but said “Well, if you’re OK with it.”
“Great!” Futaba said, handing over the Taro Tanaka card.
“Look!” Ann said, pointing out another airvent. “We can escape through here.”
“It’d be easier than going through that whole area again,” Lena pointed out.
“Well then, let’s go!” Sumire called out. “We’ve got an elevator to catch!” They all flowed through the air vent, and with a hop, skip, and a jump, they were back to the floor with the elevator.
Once there, Ren took out the card and said “So we just present this, and…”
The elevator dinged. “Member’s Card Accepted! Floor’s Accessible: The Ground Floor (current Location), The Member’s Suit.”
“Didn’t she say she wanted to meet us in The Exclusive Member’s Suit?” Jose wondered.
“I could only do so much,” Futaba said. “You couldn’t get an Exclusive Member’s card from the back terminal.”
“Still, we can move up,” Ryuji said. “I’m sure we’ll figure something out.”
“Good point Skull!” Ann said. “We just gotta keep pushing forward!”
“Well then, let’s push,” Ren said. They got onto the elevator and headed up.
Once they got to the Member’s Suit, they walked off and saw Sae, Riko, director Ono, and Sae’s guards. “Sis?!” Makoto yelped.
“Hm hm,” Sae chuckled. “We didn’t expect you to get this far.”
Sae’s Shadow manifested itself. “But then again, you pesky thieves always seem to outmaneuver Us.”
“Oh great,” Ryuji remarked. “More of this.”
Jose stepped up. “Do you wish to fight us here and now?!” he declared.
Sae laughed. “Silly thieves. You aren’t worth Our time yet.”
“You need to PROVE yourselves!” Shadow Sae said. “Otherwise, We won’t have a show on our hands. And We wouldn’t want that.”
Sae turned to Riko. “How are renovations coming along?”
“Renovations are complete on this floor,” Riko answered. “They should be complete on the other floor soon.”
“Excellent!” Sae said. She turned to Ono. “You!” She yanked on his leash. “Lick Our feet!” The director whimpered. He got on his knees and did what he was told. Sae turned back to the thieves. “Right now, you aren’t even worth THIS much.”
“WHAT?!” Ann yelped.
“However, if you manage to make it through Our gauntlets,” Shadow Sae said. “Then We’ll challenge you.”
“Hm,” Ren smirked. “You continuing to underestimate us will be your downfall.”
“Tch!” Sae sneered. “You may have gotten lucky before. But you’re on OUR turf now!”
Shadow Sae jumped in. “So think twice before making your silly declarations!”
Sae snapped, and in the blink of an eye, she and her pose were on the elevator. “We’ll see you around. If you’re strong enough!” The elevator went up.
“And she’s gone,” Yusuke said.
“She’s getting on my nerves!” Ann remarked.
“Tell me about it,” Ryuji agreed.
“Well, like it or not,” Morgana said, “and I personally vote ‘not’, she IS right. This is her palace, and by extension, her rules.”
“Well yeah,” Ryuji said, “but I don’t want to lick her feet.”
“I don’t think we’ll have to,” Sumire said. “So long as we prove ourselves.”
“But what does that mean?” Haru asked.
Jose looked over. “There’s a kiosk over there,” he noted. “Maybe they have an answer for us.”
“Well, I don’t think we have anything better to work with at the moment,” Ren said. They made their way over to the kiosk.
“Ah, greetings!” the kiosk manager said. “We’ve been expecting you!”
“You have?!” Makoto wondered.
“Indeed,” the manager said. “As appreciated guests, we will grant you 1,000 Fashion Points. You may earn more through our Fashion Gauntlets.”
“Sae did mention something about that,” Yusuke noted.
“What can we get with these Fashion Points?” Makoto wondered.
“Why many things,” the manager answered. “Our most coveted prize is an Exclusive Member’s Card for a reasonable 50,000 Fashion points.”
“Well those are the rules,” the manager said. “Take it or leave it. We also offer a loan service where we can let you borrow points up to your total amount.”
“Only if you can’t manage to pay it back,” the manager said.
“So, what would you recommend?” Ren asked.
“Well, on this floor, we have the Accessory Room and the Attitude Room,” the manager said. “For beginners, I’d recommend the Accessory Room.”
“Thank you,” Ren said. Ren motioned her group to regroup away from the kiosk. “So, it seems like we should do the Accessory Room first.”
“Are you sure we should be following the lead of some weird, conjured kiosk guy?” Ryuji wondered.
“I don’t think brute forcing our way through this palace will get us anywhere,” Morgana noted.
“Besides, it seems like Sae wants to challenge us,” Sumire pointed out.
“So we just take the challenge?” Lena asked.
“Seems like it,” Jose said.
“Hold on,” Ren said. “While I believe that taking on these gauntlets is the easiest way to proceed, I don’t think it’ll be easy.”
“What do you mean?” Futaba asked.
“Joker’s right,” Makoto said. “My sister may have invited us to challenge her, but since this is her home turf, she has no intention of fighting fair.”
“Well lucky for us, neither do we,” Yusuke remarked.
“So…we just have to cheat our way through this place?” Jose wondered.
“It’s probably better than playing it straight,” Ryuji noted. “No offense, but I don’t know how I feel about an ‘Accessory Room’ or an ‘Attitude Room’.”
“Yeah,” Ann remarked. “I know this is a warped fashion show, but this seems like a little much.”
“Remember, it used to be a casino,” Morgana said. “Maybe it has some of its old trappings.”
“So, it’s still luck-based?” Sumire wondered.
“I guess fashion is to to some extent,” Ann said. “But I feel like there’s something else going on here.”
“Well we won’t know for sure until we keep exploring!” Futaba said. “Sometimes the only way out is through.”
“Indeed,” Yusuke agreed.
“So the plan is to investigate and cheat if possible,” Ren surmised. “Alright, let’s move out!” They nodded, and moved on over to the Accessory Room.
Before entering, they stopped by the sign. Futaba took the time to read it. “‘Accessory Room Rules: Enter one of the chambers and offer a minimum of 25 Fashion Points. The judge in the room will ask if you are going minimalist or showy with your accessories. You then roll three dice. If you roll a 9 or lower, your style will be minimalist. If you roll a 10 or higher, your style will be showy. If you match your style selection with the dice roll, the judge will reward you with twice as many Fashion Points. If you don’t match your style selection with the dice roll, the judge will keep the Fashion Points you offered. A roll of three sixes will win no matter what, and also offer three times the amount of Fashion Points.’”
“That seems like a load of BS!” Ryuji called out.
“Maybe,” Ann said. “But it feels real to an extent.”
“I agree,” Makoto said. “Women, especially in high power positions, have to adhere to certain standards. If you don’t accessorize enough, people will look down on you for ‘abandoning your femininity’. But if you accessorize too much, people will say you’re ‘gaudy’ or ‘trying too hard’.”
“Woah!” Ryuji reacted. “I had no idea.”
“Of course not,” Morgana said. “Us men don’t have to worry about that.”
“But that sucks!” Ryuji said.
“I will admit, it is a little difficult at times,” Ren interjected, “but I find it fun when you find JUST the right accessories and show it off.”
“TOTALLY!” Ann agreed. “When you find make-up that REALLY compliments you. There’s nothing like it!”
“Indeed,” Yusuke agreed. “Why, not too long ago, I found some really good blush that brought out my cheekbones REALLY nicely.”
“Wait, you do this stuff too?” Ryuji said.
“Only a little,” Yusuke said. “I don’t go all out or anything, but if it looks good on me, I’m willing to try something.”
“Actually, a good number of guys at Kosei use make-up and other accessories regularly,” Jose said. “Although, some of it is for the theater department.”
“Huh,” Ryuji pondered.
“You know, you should be a little more well-versed in this area, Skull,” Futaba teased. “You know, after your little stint in Shinjuku.”
“Oh yeah!” Haru giggled. “You looked so good in those pictures.”
“Hey!” Ryuji barked. “Those guys handled my outfits and stuff, while Joker did my makeup!”
“I guess that’s true,” Futaba said.
“Buuuuuut it wouldn’t hurt to learn a little bit,” Ann said. “I mean, if you come to one of my fashion shows, knowing a little something could be beneficial.”
“Well…” Ryuji said. “Maybe… But only if I don’t have to get into it!”
“Deal!” Ann said.
“Anyways!” Makoto said. “It seems like this is probably rigged.”
“Or left up to chance at best,” Lena said.
“So we have to figure out a way to tip the scales in our favor!” Makoto continued.
“Lucky for us, that’s our specialty,” Ren said. “Let’s have a look around.” The team moved out through the area.
On one end, Haru reported “I found a door to a back area. But it is locked, and there’s no way to open it from this side.”
On the other end, Jose said “I found a vent! Perhaps we can sneak in this way.”
“Good finding, Sunshine!” Ren called out. “It seems like no one’s watching, so we can go!” One by one, they funneled through the vent, and found themselves in the back room.
“Alright!” Ryuji cheered. “Now all we gotta do is find some way to rig the game!”
Makoto nodded. “Let’s go!” They made their way through the back room of the Accessory Room.
After some trekking, they managed to make it to the room behind the chambers. “So, this is it: the belly of the beast!” Yusuke remarked.
“Hang on!” Lena observed. “Look!”
She pointed out the shadow behind the scenes. “They think they’re going to stylize just right. NOW! Take it all from them!”
“So they really are cheating,” Futaba muttered.
“Sis…” Makoto said, worried.
“Well, now that we’re here,” Ren instructed, “we can turn the tables. Right, Oracle?”
Futaba nodded. “Should be easy enough.”
“But first,” Sumire said, “we have to deal with the current cheaters!”
Ren nodded. “MOVE!” They rushed the shadow behind the cheating. With the successful ambush, they managed to take out the shadow relatively easily.
“Alright!” Ann shouted.
Ren looked at the console. “Oracle? Would you like to do the honors?”
“Heh heh heh! With pleasure!” Oracle said. She began hacking the console. Once she finished, she turned to the others and said, “OK! I thought it’d be weird to rig all of the games, so I only rigged one of them, and the rest of them have the normal odds. I went ahead and marked the room on the map for us.”
“Good thinking,” Makoto said. “If sis finds out, she’d probably send everyone to deal with us. And we couldn’t handle that.”
“Well, since we know which one will be helpful to us,” Morgana said. “Let’s play the game!” They nodded, and left.
At the end of the hallways, Haru found a locked door. “Oh! I think this is the door I noticed on the other side. And look! There’s a keycard reader!” Ren nodded, and opened the door. They were back in the Accessory Room front area.
They made their way to their own personal cheating chamber. “Alright, let’s see how this goes,” Ren said. She went up to play.
“Good evening,” the judge said. “How many Fashion Points are you putting on the line today?”
“1,000,” Ren answered.
There were audible gasps. “Heh heh,” the judge said. “Somebody’s confident. No matter, I’m always willing to serve some humble pie. Now tell me, how do you plan on stylizing today?”
“Let’s go flashy!” Ren said.
“Bold in every sense of the word, I see,” the judge said. “Let’s see if you’re bold enough.” The dice rolled. It landed on triple six. “Urgh! I don’t believe it!”
Ren chuckled. “My winnings?”
“Er, of course madame,” the judge said. Ren’s Fashion Points now accumulated to 3,000.
“Good,” Ren said. “Now again.”
“You think you’ll get lucky twice in a row?!” the judge said. “There’s bold, and then there's foolhardy!”
“Are you saying no?” Ren intimidated.
“Er, of course not!” the judge said. “Still flashy?”
“You know it,” Ren said.
“Very well,” the judge said. The dice rolled. Triple six again. Ren’s Fashion Points now were at 9,000. “I don’t believe it…”
Ren giggled. “Well, you take care now.”
“Er, yes,” the judge said. The thieves left.
“Are you sure you want to leave?” Ryuji whispered.
“I think we need to keep looking around,” Ren said. “If we wanted to just get through the palace, maybe, but our aim is a little more than that.”
“Right,” Ryuji siad. “Let’s move on to the, ummm, Attitude Room, I guess.”
“I am unsure of how this will work,” Yusuke said.
“”Yeah,” Lena said. “What do you think it means?”
“I think it’d be better if we just go,” Ann said. “It’s not worth it to just stand around speculating.” The others nodded, and they headed out.
Once they got to the door to the Attitude Room, Futaba read the sign. “‘Attitude Room Rules: Approach an Attitude Machine, insert the required Fashion Points, and pull the lever. If you get three matching moods, you win. If you don’t get three matching moods, you lose. Rewards are dependent on what mood you get.”
“The Hell?!” Ryuji said. “This is JUST a slot machine! And what do they mean about having ‘matching moods’?”
“Well,” Makoto jumped in, “women are sometimes considered moody by their male peers. If they display different moods throughout the day, it looks bad on them. I guess this is a reflection of that?”
“But if this is how women are treated,” Lena wondered, “why is Sae subjecting us to it?”
“I imagine that she’s been subject to it on too many occasions to count,” Makoto lamented.
“Oh…” Lena said.
“But also,” Futaba interrupted, “maybe this has to do with her ‘New World Order’. Maybe once she’s in charge, she’ll subject men to this kind of treatment.”
“Hmmm,” Yusuke pondered. “I think that’s a fair assessment. I mean, you’ve seen how she views the director now.”
“Right…” Makoto said.
Ryuji and Morgana jolted. “Umm, I don’t wanna do that…” Ryuji said, nervously.
“Y-Yeah!” Morgana said. “Let’s save Sae!”
“Oh brother…” Futaba whined.
Haru giggled. “Don’t worry your pretty little heads. Everything will be fine.”
“Thanks…” Ryuji said.
“Anyways, we should get going,” Ren said. They entered.
Once inside, they saw a bunch of “Attitude Machines”. “So, do we just play them?” Ann wondered.
Ren shook her head. “They’re probably rigged too. Besides, if we were guided to the Accessory Room first, there’s probably something juicier than these in here.”
“Good thinking,” Sumire said.
Ren nodded. “Let’s explore the area a little.” The thieves nodded, and went about searching the area.
At the end, they spotted a door. “Hmm,” Jose pondered. He walked up to it and tried opening it. “It’s locked.”
“Well, there’s probably another way in,” Morgana surmised.
Jose nodded. “Maybe another air vent somewhere.”
“Let’s look for one,” Ann suggested. They went back and found one on top of one of the walls. They snuck through, and found themselves in more back rooms.
“Well, here we are again,” Ryuji remarked.
“Third verse, same as the first,” Lena added.
“Well, let’s not just stand around,” Ren instructed. “Let’s move!” The thieves moved through the back rooms with ease.
As they were going through, Morgana noticed something. “Hm? I think the second Will Seed is around here somewhere.”
Ren nodded. “Let’s keep an eye out.” They searched around, and soon found it. They entered.
“I wonder what we’ll see next,” Jose pontificated.
“I don’t know,” Lena said. “But I doubt it’ll be as heavy as last time.”
“We can only hope,” Yusuke said. “But I don’t assume it’s anything good.”
“Well, we still have to face the music anyways,” Makoto said. “Right Joker?”
“Right,” Ren replied. She went up and grabbed it.
“Hello there,” the director’s voice rang out.
“The director?” Futaba said.
Sae’s voice picked up. “Who are you, and what do you want?”
“Isn’t that her boss?” Haru wondered.
“Maybe this was from before,” Yusuke rationalized.
“You must be Sae Niijima,” the director said. “My name is Hiroto Ono. I’m the director of the Special Investigations Unit at the prosecutor’s office, and a friend of your professor’s. He’s told me quite a lot about you.”
“What does it concern you?” Sae mouthed back. “I’m studying to become a defense attorney.”
“Of course, of course,” Ono said. “I’m familiar with your mother as well. Why, I’ve fought her court more times than I can count. … I’m…sorry for your loss.”
“It’s fine,” Sae said.
“But back to my original point,” Ono said. “While it is true that you are studying to become a defense attorney, it might be beneficial to work in the prosecutor’s office for a little while.”
“Why do you say that?” Sae asked.
“Come on!” Ono retorted. “I know you’re no fool. You know that prosecutors have a 99% success rate in this country.”
“Is that true?” Ryuji wondered.
Makoto nodded. “It is very stacked in the favor of the police and prosecution.”
“But that doesn’t seem fair!” Ann protested.
“It’s not,” Makoto said. “But sis has told me she wanted to remedy that.”
“Still…” Ann said.
“Your point?” Sae’s voice continued.
“Well, I’m just saying,” Ono replied, “you might not get a foothold in if the odds are stacked against you. It’d be worth it to establish yourself a bit beforehand to help show confidence. Not to mention it’s a little more secure than just starting off as a defense attorney.”
“What’s in it for you?” Sae wondered.
“Hm,” the director grinned. “I know just how talented you are. I don’t want a mind like yours to be wasted, whether it’s playing for my team, or the enemy.”
“So, you consider defense attorneys to be the enemy,” Sae sniped.
“It’s a playful rivalry,” Ono said. “Here. This is my card. I don’t need an answer right away, but I’d like to hear from you.”
“Thanks,” Sae said.
“Well, so long,” Ono said. “Oh, and good luck on your test.”
There was a long silence before Sae went “Hmmmmmmmmmm.”
The voices ended there. “Well, it wasn’t as heavy…” Yusuke said.
“But I don’t feel good after listening to that,” Lena finished.
“So, the director wanted to bring her in,” Makoto said.
“You didn’t know?” Morgana said.
“Well…” Makoto said. “I don’t know all the specifics. But I know that she and the director began talking when she was in college.”
“So, that was her in college then,” Jose said.
“I believe so,” Makoto said. “From what I know, she decided to go along with it, but assured us that it was only temporary.”
“‘Us’?” Ryuji wondered. “Has Sae’s Shadow form infected you too?”
“No!” Makoto said, angrily. “I meant…me and my dad.”
“Ah,” Ryuji said. “Yeah, that makes more sense.”
“But she’s still a prosecutor,” Sumire remarked.
“Again, that’s because of my father’s death,” Makoto said. “Like I said, keeping this job was more secure for her after his passing. Not to mention taking care of me.”
“Queen…” Haru said, mournfully.
“Well, it seems like this whole thing is taking its toll on her,” Morgana said. “So we gotta free her from her chains!”
“Hm,” Ren smirked. “Couldn’t have said it better myself. Let’s keep moving.” The thieves nodded, and moved on.
They soon found a strange terminal. “Oh hey!” Ryuji said. “Can you crack this Oracle?”
“I’ll take a look,” Futaba said. “Hmmmm.”
“What is it?” Jose asked.
“It looks like,” Futaba began, “this is part of a network. It’s not on right now, but it seems connected to a greater system. I think if I can activate it, I can make the necessary arrangements.”
“But we need to activate it first…” Ann said.
“Correct,” Futaba replied.
“Let’s keep this area in mind for now and keep going,” Ren said. The thieves moved on.
They soon found another air vent that let them out in a room with a giant “Attitude Machine.” “Woah!” Ryuji said. “THAT’S a big machine!”
Lena was surprised. “It costs 5,000 Fashion Points to just play it?!”
“Yeah, but look!” Jose assured her. “If we win the jackpot, we get 50,000 Fashion Points!”
“IF we win,” Makoto said.
“Well, let’s see if we can’t crack this,” Ren said. The thieves began their search.
They soon found a terminal on the side of the machine. “Alrighty then!” Futaba said. She began cracking. “Hmmmm. Ah! I see!”
“What is it?” Yusuke wondered.
“THIS is the main terminal,” Futaba said. “From here, I can activate the other terminals.”
“And from there, you can hack this machine?” Makoto wondered
“Precisely!” Futaba answered.
“I take it the one we found in the back room is one of them,” Sumire said.
“Correct!” Futaba said. “The other one is at the front of the Attitude Room.”
“Well then, let’s activate those terminals,” Ren instructed. They decided to head back to the front first.
On their way, they found the locked door Jose tried to open. “Huh,” Jose remarked. Ren unlocked the door. “How peculiar.”
“Well, I guess they don’t let just anyone back here,” Makoto said.
“True,” Yusuke said. “Even if it is rigged, the chance at that many Fashion Points is too much to just give away.” They kept moving.
They found the terminal at the front. “How’d we miss this?” Ryuji wondered.
“I assume it’s designed to blend in,” Makoto said. “We were so taken in with what this room is that we didn’t notice it.”
“Well now that it’s here, it’s mine!” Futaba said. She began hacking. “Alright! This terminal is under my control!”
“Now time for the other one!” Sumire cheered. They made their way back into the back rooms and found the other terminal.
“Alright!” Futaba said. She hacked away. “BOOYAH! Both terminals are now mine!”
“So, what now?” Lena asked. “Do we just spin and win?”
“Not quite…” Futaba admitted. Everyone was confused. “I could only get the giant ‘Attitude Machine’ to be 8:2 odds of paying out,” she admitted.
“So, it’s just left up to luck?” Makoto said.
“Well, the odds are in our favor,” Sumire said. “All we need now is just a little faith.”
Ren nodded. “Let’s head over to the machine now and press our luck.”
“Maybe don’t phrase it like that,” Morgana said. Regardless, the thieves moved out.
Once they got there, the thieves stood and stared at the machine. “Do we pull it?” Lena wondered.
“We have no other option,” Sumire said. “Joker?” She gave Ren a peck on the cheek. “You do the honors.”
Ren nodded. “Thanks for the luck, sweetie.” Ren inserted 5,000 of her Fashion Points and spun the machine. The first slot landed on a 7, with the word “Themselves” inside. “Huh?” Ann wondered.
“I guess the ability to ‘be themselves’ is the jackpot,” Makoto said.
“That’s…depressing…” Ryuji said.
The second 7 came up. “Could it be?” Yusuke wondered.
The third 7 arrived. “WE DID IT!” Lena cheered. The noise rang through the Attitude Room.
Ren smiled. “Well, it seems like if we stay here longer, we may get caught.”
Morgana nodded. “We have enough. Let’s move.” The thieves all left the Attitude Room, and gathered in the lobby of the Member’s Suit.
Ren approached the kiosk. “Hello there.”
“Hello,” the manager said.
“We’d like an Exclusive Member’s card,” Ren said.
“Do you have the Fashion Points?” the manager asked.
“Certainly,” Ren said, presenting her card.
The manager looked it over. “Very well then.” He got out a card. “Here you are.”
“Thank you,” Ren said, with a smile. She turned to her team. “Let’s move.” They started making their way to the elevator, only to see a powerful shadow sanding in their way.
Over the speakers, they heard Sae say “My my my. You really are a tricksy bunch.”
“But still,” Shadow Sae remarked, “you’re no match for Us!”
Ren grew determined. “Is this part of your ‘test’ too?!” she asked.
“Hm hm hm,” Sae chuckled. “You’re more clever than I first thought.”
“Heh heh heh heh,” Shadow Sae said. “Cheat as much as you want! But when faced with a real opponent, you can’t afford to back down!”
Makoto steeled herself. “Why are you doing this?!” she called out.
“Why?” Sae answered. “WHY?! Because once you VERMIN are dealt with, We can FINALLY make the changes this godforsaken country NEEDS!”
“We want that too!” Makoto pleaded. “We can help if you just listen to us!”
“THAT’S NOT FOR YOU TO DECIDE!” Sae snapped.
“Yeah,” Shadow Sae agreed. “If you want to prove yourselves to Us, go ahead! But We won’t listen to you miscreants until then!”
“Sis…” Makoto saint, resigning herself. She took a deep breath. “Well, if it’s a fight you want, then it’s a fight YOU’LL GET! BRING IT ON!” The thieves challenged the shadow. Despite the shadow’s overwhelming power, the thieves managed to win the fight.
“Damn Queen,” Futaba remarked. “Are you doing OK?”
“I’m fine,” Makoto said. She sighed. “Well, as fine as I can be.”
Haru placed her hand on Makoto’s shoulder. “I know it’s difficult.”
“Noir…” Makoto said. She sighed again. “Thanks.”
“Well, now that that’s sorted,” Ren said, “let’s move on up.” The thieves nodded, and made their way to the elevator.
“I don’t suppose that even when we get up there, we’ll just get to meet with Sae,” Yusuke remarked.
“I don’t think so either,” Makoto said.
“Well then, we just gotta work our magic again, I suppose,” Sumire said.
“But what kind of trapping will we find in the Exclusive Member’s Suit?” Lena said.
“No use in speculating,” Ren said. “Let’s just move on up.” They got in the elevator and rode up to the Exclusive Member’s Suit.
Once there, Ren and company noticed a big wall and an attendant. “Welcome to the Exclusive Member’s Suit,” the attendant said. “Do you have a reservation?”
Ren was confused. “Well then,” Makoto said. “Let’s go.” She started walking.
“Wait!” Ren called out, grabbing her arm.
Then, something very peculiar happened. Makoto turned back, but she was phasing through the attendant. “What?”
Everyone else was freaked out. “WHAT IS THAT?!” Ryuji yelped.
“Is something the matter?” Masked.
“Um, Queen?” Futaba asked. “Do you see a giant door?”
Ren pulled her away. “So, we see someone guarding a giant door. But not only do you not see it, it doesn’t even seem to register for you.”
“How very odd,” Yusuke said.
“Why do you suppose that is?” Jose asked.
“Hmmm,” Morgana wondered. “I think it has something to do with Sae’s cognition.This must be a part of the real world we don’t have access to, but should.”
“And also,” Haru continued, “a part of the world where Queen DOES have access to.”
“Right…” Lena said. “But what fits the bill here?”
“Well, we know this place is a courthouse,” Ren said, thinking aloud.
“That’s it!” Makoto said. “This area must represent the courtroom itself! I’ve watched my sister work before, but I don’t think anyone else has been in the courtroom.”
“So, we just gotta watch a court case?” Ryuji said.
“I guess so,” Futaba said.
“Not only that,” Morgana pointed out. “We’ve gotta watch a trial Sae is running. SHE needs to see us there.”
“Oh yeah…” Ryuji said.
“Maybe we can ask Secretary when her next trial will be,” Sumire said. “If we’re lucky, we can catch it.”
“Hm hm. Excellent idea Violet,” Haru said.
“Plus, you can compare notes, Oracle,” Ren said.
“Right,” Futaba nodded.
“So, for now, we gotta head out,” Makoto said, “and come back in once we’ve seen a trial.”
“Sounds like a plan to me,” Lena said.
“Well then, let’s go,” Ren said. They headed back down the elevator.
On their way down, Haru wondered. “Hmmmm.”
“What’s wrong, Noir?” Lena asked.
“I’m just curious,” Haru answered. “We only saw two of the Will Seeds. I wonder what else lies in store.”
“Oh,” Lena said.
“Do you have any idea, Queen?” Morgana said.
“I imagine it has something to do with my father’s death,” Makoto said. “But I don’t think I can give specifics.”
“Sorry,” Morgana pouted.
“You’re fine,” Makoto said.
“Well, that’s just another mystery we’ll have to unravel,” Ren said. “For now, let’s rest up, and prepare for what’s to come.” With one last group nod, the thieves left the Fashion Show, and headed out into the real world.
P5R: Rebel Girl (A FeMC Story/P5R Rework) Chapter 41: Varying Kinds of Trash
Monday was the clean up day the school had organized. Instead of classes, students had to go to the park to clean it up. However, only half the day was mandatory. Monday was also the day the Phantom Thieves would meet up to plan the Madarame heist. Ren woke up, stretched a bit, and then proceeded to get ready for the day.
One her way to Shujin to pick up her gym clothes, she heard someone say “Hey beautiful” in a slimy voice. She looked and was horrified at the sight. One that was all too familiar. Sumire was being harassed by someone. “How are you?”
“I’m fine,” Sumire insisted.
“OK OK” the guy said. He looked her over. “So, you go to Shujin, huh? I’ve heard things are getting a bit rough there.” He took out his phone. “If you need anything, we can exchange numbers. You can give me a call, and I’ll be over in a jiff.”
“Please stop,” Sumire told him.
“Huh?” the guy said.
“Sumire…” Morgana lamented from the bag. He looked at Ren. “Huh?”
Ren was having a conniption. The girl she liked was in the midst of getting harassed. Yet she knew, she KNEW, that doing something was what got her in trouble last time. It could get her in trouble again, and it would jeopardize more than herself. It would jeopardize the Phantom Thieves, and by extension, the world.
However, Ren couldn’t let this go. Come Hell or high water, she knew she had to stop this. She dashed over. “She told you to stop,” she said, confronting the creep.
“Huh?” the man said.
“Senpai?” Sumire said.
The man looked over. “Is she your friend?” he asked. He grinned a slimy grin. “We can all be friends here. There’s no need to get jealous.”
“I’d prefer not to,” Ren said.
“What was that?” the guy jerked.
“She SAID she doesn’t want to!” Sumire interrupted with force, taking both the creep and Ren by surprise. “And I SUGGEST you respect her wishes.”
The perv got angry.”Maybe YOU ought to learn some manners.” He lifted his hand in an attempt to strike one of them. However, someone grabbed his hand before he could unleash his anger. The three of them looked over to see that it was Kosuke. Kosuke gave the man a look that could kill.
The attempted playboy was scared. He broke off from Kosuke’s grasp, put his hands in his pockets, and regained his composure. “Tch” he said in a huff. “Fine! Be like that. You’re not special anyway.” He walked off, frustrated.
The girls sighed in relief. “You alright?” Kosuke asked. The girls looked up at him. They nodded. “Good.” He rubbed the back of his head. “Sorry.” The girls were confused. “I’m sure you could have handled a creep like him on your own. I didn’t mean to underestimate you.”
Ren chuckled slightly. “It’s OK. When it comes to people like that, I’ll take all the help I can get.”
“Fair,” Kosuke chuckled back. He then realized. “Hey. You’re that girl from the coffee shop, right?” Ren nodded. “Thought so. Hey, just so you know, your portrait will be ready tonight. Will you be at the coffee shop then?”
Ren got slightly embarrassed. “I’ll be there, yeah.”
“Great,” Kosuke said. He began to walk off.
“Wait!” Ren called out. Kosuke turned back. “Uh, how much do I owe you?”
Kosuke grinned. “It’s alright. You can have it for free.”
“Are you sure?” Ren asked.
Kosuke nodded. “Positive.”
“Well, if you say so…” Ren said, sounding unsure. She bowed. “Thank you.” Kosuke nodded and walked off.
Ren and Sumire began walking towards Shujin. “So, that’s Kosuke?” Sumire asked. Ren nodded. “Hmmmm. He seems nice, despite...you know…everything…”
“I bet he is usually nice,” Ren explained. “Remember, we had to fight Shiho before, and she’s practically the salt of the Earth.”
“...You’re right,” Sumire said. She sighed. “I guess I should have known that. I know what it’s like to change dramatically when faced with difficult situations…”
Ren looked over at her. “I get it,” she said. Sumire looked up. “It’s jarring because you’ve only seen his mean side. I’m sure if you knew him better, you might see that kind of interaction as the norm, rather than the exception.”
Sumire thought about that. “I guess that that’s how Yusuke-senpai sees him then. Usually, anyways...”
Ren was shocked. “Hm. I guess you’re right.” She smiled, gazing at Sumire as the two continued heading to the school. Upon arrival, they headed to the locker room to get changed. Once they got into their gym clothes, they headed out towards the park for cleaning.
“OK everyone!” Makoto called out on her megaphone. “Today, we are doing our part to clean up the park. You will be split into groups of four. Each group will be given a section to clean. A lunch will be provided. After lunch, you can decide to stay, or leave if you would prefer. Now, find your assignments, and get cleaning!”
The students checked the assignment list. To their surprise, Ren, Ann, Ryuji, and Sumire were in a group together. “For real?!” Ryuji wondered.
“That’s quite the coincidence” Ann remarked.
Makoto walked up to them and just said “You’re welcome” before leaving.
There was a slight pause. “I guess Niijima-senpai did that for us.” Sumire concluded.
“Huh” Ryuji said.
“Well, I guess we can’t let a good thing go to waste,” Ren said. “Let’s get cleaning and see how far in our planning we can get.” The others nodded.
“Wait, what’s Morgana going to do?” Ann asked.
They all looked at Ren. Morgana popped out of the bag. “I guess just keep me close.” The teens nodded and started cleaning.
“So, do we have any ideas for what the card should say?” Ryuji said. “Cause I’ve been thinking, and boy howdy, do I have some ideas.”
“I think we should let Yusuke handle writing it,” Ann said.
“Yeah, this is kind of personal to him,” Sumire added.
“Oh. Sure. That makes sense” Ryuji said. He sighed. “I guess it’s mostly his demons we’re tackling here.”
“It’s fine,” Ren said. “Believe me, I have some choice words for him as well. But I think it worked for Kamoshida because we all had a bone to pick with him on a personal level.”
“RIght…” Ryuji said.
Sumire was thinking. “How should we distribute it?”
Morgana popped out. “That’s a good question.”
“Hmmm” Ann thought. “If we send it to Madarame’s house, he’s sure to get it.”
“Yeah, but I doubt that Kosuke would see it” Ren reminded them. “We need something that gets his attention too.”
“What about the exhibit itself?” Sumire asked.
“Good thinking!” Ryuji said. “Kosuke’s guarding the place as it is.”
“Right, even if he’s not there, he’s in charge,” Ren said. “I’m sure they’d call him in for such an event.”
“Wait!” Ann said. “That place is guarded by cameras and stuff. If anyone gets caught, they’ll know for sure it’s us!”
“Well, almost anyone…” Morgana said. They all looked at him. “I mean, I look like a cat to most people. If they saw me, we’d be clear.”
After a slight pause, Sumire said “Right. And since your fur is black, and we’ll be doing this at night, you’ll be harder to spot.”
“How does that help?” Ryuji asked.
“It’s simple,” Ren said. “If Morgana’s hard to see, they can’t trace it back to me.” Sumire nodded.
“Oh. I see” Ryuji said.
“Wait!” Ren said. She sighed. “I can’t take Morgana tonight.”
“Why not?” Ann asked.
“Because Kosuke told me he’d be bringing my portrait in tonight” Ren explained.
“Wait, when did he tell you that?” Ryuji asked.
“This morning,” Sumire said. Ann and Ryuji got really confused. “The two of us ran into him.”
“I see,” Ryuji said.
“What’s he like?” Ann asked. “Out here I mean.”
Sumire smiled gently. “He’s actually really sweet and considerate.”
Ann was shocked. “Wow. I did not expect that.”
“Neither did I” Sumire explained. “But it makes sense when you think about it. In the end, he’s only after Madarame.”
“Right…” Ann said.
Morgana looked on uncomfortably. “Sumire…”
Sumire smiled. “It’s fine.”
“What is?” Ryuji asked.
“Oh, uh, it’s just the circumstances of him crossing paths with us weren’t ideal” Sumire told them.
“‘Weren’t ideal’ how?” Ann asked.
“Well…” Sumire began.
“Some creep was trying to get close with Sumire,” Ren said.
“WHAT?!” Ryuji said.
“I stepped into help, and then Kosuke came to help when he tried making a pass at both of us,” Ren continued.
“Well, he jumped in when he threatened to hit us when we didn’t comply” Sumire clarified.
“That’s… not better,” Ryuji said.
“Ugh!” Ann grunted. She sighed. “Well, I’m glad that things didn’t get worse.”
Sumire nodded. “Thanks.”
“So, where were we?” Ryuj asked. “I got so mad thinking about that guy I lost track.”
“Oh, right,” Sumire said. “We were talking about how to distribute the calling card.”
“Ohhhhh, riiiiiiiiight” Ryuji said. “Ren can’t do it because she’s meeting with Kosuke tonight. Yeah, I’m caught up now.”
“Well, I don’t think my parents would want me out so late,” Sumire said.
“Yeah, I don’t want to walk in and wake up my mom,” Ryuji added.
“I guess I’ll do it,” Ann said. “My parents just left for a business trip, so I’ll be fine.”
“When did they leave?” Ryuji asked.
“Just last night” Ann said. “And it’s only for about a week, but still.”
“Hey” Ryuji said, placing his hand on her shoulder. “If you need anything, you can always give me a call.”
Ann smiled. “Thanks.”
Ryuji let go. “So, is that everything?”
“I think so,” Ren said. “We’d need to meet up with Yusuke and Jose to finalize everything, but this is pretty much everything I could think of.”
“Well then, let's finish cleaning up,” Ann cheered. They continued to clean the area they were given.
“OK everyone!” Makoto called out. “It’s time for lunch. Please line up in an orderly fashion.”
As the students began to line up, the thieves managed to be first in line. Upon getting to their food, they were greeted with a surprise. “Dr. Maruki?” Sumire called out.
“Hi” he responded.
“What are you doing here?” Ann asked.
“I’m doing my part to help,” Maruki answered. “I, and some other students, spent all morning preparing lunch for you all.” Ren looked on and saw that most of the students helping Maruki were girls helplessly infatuated with him. Although to Ren’s surprise, she noticed one of the guys helping him was infatuated with him as well.
“You can cook?” Ryuji asked.
Maruki chortled. “It’s a skill you need to develop once you start living on your own. Although I’m not as good a cook as…” The thieves looked at him as he made no attempt to finish his sentence. “Well, anyway, enjoy your food.”
“Uhhh, not as good as who?” Ryuji asked.
“Don’t worry about it,” Maruki said. “For right now, just enjoy some food.”
“Uhhhhhhh, OK?” Ryuji said.
“Let’s not push it for now,” Ren whispered. She walked up to get some food. “Thank you, Dr. Maruki.”
“You’re quite welcome,” he replied.
The thieves took their lunch to a bench and began eating. “So, what do we do after lunch?” Ryuji asked.
“Well...” Ann pondered. “There’s not much we can do. We’d have to wait for Yusuke and Jose to be done with school before doing anything.”
“I suppose that’s true,” Ryuji said.
“We could stay here and clean,” Sumire said. “We’re allowed to do that after all. And… I dunno, I’ve been having fun.”
“Not a bad idea,” Morgana said.
“You’re just saying that because you don’t have to clean,” Ren noted.
Morgana continued. “It’s a nice look. You were all called out by the principal, were you not? This might help improve your image.”
“I getcha,” Ren said. “Plus, it’s a nice deterrent. People might not think we're the menacing Phantom Thieves if we’re among the few who stick around on a cleaning day.”
“...I guess” Ryuji relented.
“Were you not having a good time, Ryuji-senpai?” Sumire asked.
“Not entirely…” Ryuji said. “But I guess hanging out with you all has been fun in its own way.”
“Well, it sounds like we have a plan,” Ren said. “Let’s finish lunch and continue cleaning.” The others cheered, and they continued eating.
After they were done, They messaged Yusuke and Jose about meeting up, then they spent the rest of what would be their school day cleaning up some more. However, since most of the other students and staff were gone, they were a bit more free to just have fun at times. Once they got a reply from Yusuke, the group headed out.
They met up at the access hall. “So, are we ready to make a move?” Yusuke asked.
“Almost” Ren said. “We need to go over a few things first.” Ren explained to Jose and Yusuke what she and the others had discussed.
“I see…” Yusuke said. “Well, as much as I would love to write such a calling card, Madarame would recognize my prose immediately.”
“Oh” Ren said.
“Hey, why don’t I write it, and you can punch it up a little?” Ryuji offered.
Yusuke smirked. “What a marvelous idea.”
“Um, where?” Jose asked. The thieves looked around.
“I guess this place isn’t really conducive for writing, huh” Ren lamented.
“Condu-whu?” Ryuji wondered.
“It’s not a good place to write,” Sumire said.
“Oh. Why didn’t you say so?” Ryuji asked.
“She did,” Morgana replied.
“May I suggest that beef bowl place you took me to Ryuji?” Yusuke asked. “I’ve been wanting to go again.”
“Do they allow cats?” Ann asked, looking at Morgana.
“I don’t think so,” Ryuji said.
Yusuke looked sad. “Perhaps another day.”
“The diner on Central Street it is then!” Jose said.
“Would it look suspicious if we kept going there though?” Ryuji asked.
“Not really,” Jose pointed out. “I’ve seen groups of people going there daily. It wouldn’t seem odd in the slightest.”
“It is kind of a popular place,” Ann added.
“And thei cuisine is excellent” Yusuke said.
Ren smiled. “I guess being a place that’s welcoming has it’s advantages. Let’s go.” The group proceeded to make way to the diner.
While Ryuji was drafting the calling card, Ann took out something from her bag. “Hey Yusuke.” Yusuke looked at her. Ann slipped him a piece of paper. “Could you perhaps redesign our logo?” Yusuke looked at the piece of paper. “I designed it when we sent our calling card to Kamoshida… but I think it needs a bit of touching up.”
Yusuke looked it over. “Just to confirm,” he began, “what is this a picture of?”
“It’s a thief peering through a top hat,” Ann explained.
Yusuke looked at the image again. “That’s what I thought.” Yusuke continued to look. “Ah! I think I have something!” He sketched something. He showed the rest of the group. “What do you think?”
They all looked at it. “I like it,” Jose said.
“Me too!” Ann exclaimed. “It had the spirit of the original, but there’s something fierce that wasn’t there before.”
“It looks really cool, Yusuke-senpai!” Sumire chimed in.
“You did a really good job,” Ren said.
“Thank you,” Yusuke said. “Although I would like to thank Ann for her guidance.”
“Aww, you’re too kind,” Ann said.
“You could say that again,” Ryuji said.
“What was that?!” Ann snarled.
“N-nothing!” Ryuji whimpered. “Good job Yusuke, good job.”
“That’s what I thought,” Ann said.
“You’re doing excellent as chief artist for the Phantom Thieves” Morgana said.
“Why does Yusuke get to be chief artist?” Jose asked. “I’m an artist too.”
“Well, uh…” Morgana panicked.
“You can both be chief artist” Ren offered.
“Huh. OK” Jose smiled.
“What a splendid solution,” Yusuke said.
“That worked?” Ryuji said. “Anyways, I think I have the calling card written out.” He handed it to Yusuke. “What do you think?”
“Hm” Yusuke said, observing it. “Question: How long have you and Ann known each other?”
“Since middle school” Ryuji answered.
“But we were pretty close,” Ann said. “Wait, why are you asking that?”
“I’m getting a similar feeling looking over both your logo and Ryuji’s calling card” Yusuke said.
“Oh. Well, I guess that makes sense” Ann said.
“I’ll see what I can do,” Yusuke said. He took some time, but he rewrote Ryuji’s calling card. “There. A nice combination of mine and Ryuji’s work.”
“Wait” Ryuji called out. “Should it go through a few more people to hide your voice?”
“I think this is fine enough,” Yusuke said.
“What’s that supposed to mean?” Ryuji asked.
“It means your style and his clash a lot” Ann giggled.
“Um, didn’t he say that Ryuji’s card reminded him of your drawing?” Jose asked.
“Yeah, and-” Ann answered. “Hey!”
“My apologies,” Yusuke said. “It’s just… very different from what I’m used to.”
“We do go to Kosei,” Jose said. “The people there are top notch artists.”
Ann kept her glare for a bit. She dropped it to say “Well, in that case, I’ll forgive you.”
“Yeah. What she said” Ryuji tagged on.
“Well, it seems like we’re pretty much set,” Ren said. “All that’s left to do is drop it off.”
“I’m ready!” Ann said.
“A whole evening with Lady Ann” Morgana said, grinning ear to ear.
“Before you go, I have a question,” Ren said. “Is it not possible for Jose to do it?” They all looked at her. “I just don’t want him feeling left out.”
Jose smiled. “It’s OK. I’m fine with being more of an observer for now. And I can’t go. The dorms have a fairly strict nighttime policy. You can go out, but you have to sign out and state your reason.
“Yeah, I guess I can see where that’d be a problem,” Ryuji said. “You can’t just say ‘delivering Phantom Thief calling card’, otherwise they’ll get you.”
They looked at Ryuji confused. “I was thinking more ‘this outing corresponds to witness accounts and security data’” Jose explained.
“Oh” Ryuji said, embarrassed. “That too, I suppose…”
“Ryuji…” Ann said, facepalming.
“Alright then” Ren said. “I’ll message you once the coast is clear Ann.” Ann nodded. “Are we all set then? Tomorrow’s our only shot at getting Madarame’s treasure. Failure is not an option.” They all nodded. “Let’s get a good night’s rest, and bring the storm tomorrow.”
They all began to leave. Morgana slid between Ren’s bag and Ann’s. Ann took the calling card with the new logo and headed off, while everyone else returned home.
While in LeBlanc, Ren was working on some schoolwork when she and Sojiro heard the door open. They looked up, and sure enough it was Kosuke carrying a canvas. “Hi,” he said. He set the canvas down in the booth across from Ren. “What do you think? I call it ‘Portrait of a Girl in Love’.”
Ren was absolutely stunned. “It’s...amazing,” she said.
“Heh heh” Kosuke giggled. “I’m glad you like it. It’s been a while since I got to paint something like that. It felt really good to do. Thank you for being such a wonderful subject.”
Ren smiled. “Thank you for painting such a beautiful painting.”
As Kosuke was about to leave, Sojiro called out. “Wait!” Kosuke stopped. Sojiro threw down a wad of cash on the counter. “Here.”
Kosuke walked over. “What’s this?”
“Heh. Don’t think I’m letting you leave without paying you for that painting” Sojiro told him.
“Oh, it’s fine,” Kosuke said.
“I insist,” Sojiro said.
Kosuke looked at Sojiro, and then the money. “Well, if you insist.” He took the money. “Thank you.” He left.
Sojiro looked at Ren and the painting. “It really is a nice painting.” Ren nodded. “Were you planning on paying him for it?”
Ren was taken back a little. “Well, I ran into him this morning and he said he would give it to me or free after I asked about it.”
“I see,” Sojiro said. “What a wonderfully peculiar man.”
Ren smiled. “I agree.”
“Well, I’m gonna call it here,” Sojiro said. “Goodnight.”
“Goodnight” Ren called out. Sojiro left. Ren messaged Ann. Ann and Morgana had just finished, and started to head over to LeBlanc. Ren changed into her pajamas and hung up her painting in her room while she was waiting.
She got the arrival message from Ann, and went down to meet her to pick up Morgana. “How’d it go?” Ren asked.
“It went purr-fectly” Morgana said.
“Ugh” Ann said. “I was nervous the entire time. But it went well, so that’s good.”
Ren nodded. “Thanks.”
“No problem!” Ann said. “I should be heading home now. Goodnight.”
“Goodnight” Ren said.
“Goodnight Lady Ann” Morgana called out. Ren carried Morgana up to her room and plopped the both of them on the bed. Ren got under the covers, while Morgana curled up, and the two fell asleep almost instantly.
On the final day of Madarame’s exhibition, a surprise press conference was called by Madarame himself. As it started, Madarame was crying his eyes out. “People of Japan! I have to apologize!” He cried out. “I am not worthy of your admiration. The artist Madarame is nothing more than a sham. Most of my masterpieces, including the Sayuri, are not my own. I robbed my students of their art, and claimed it as my own. To keep this all under wraps, I intimidated my students, and I sometimes even abused them.”
Everyone present at the press conference was shocked. Meanwhile, Madarame’s eyes continued to flow like faucets left on. He continued speaking. “In fact, the real author of the Sayuri died before they could claim it as their own. I took it in an act of desperation, and jump-started my meteoric rise to the top of the artwork on the backs of my students, who are more deserving than I am.” He continued to cry his eyes out. Members of the press tried to ask further questions, but Madarame had lost control of himself and continued bawling.
Meanwhile, several people were watching the press conference on the big TV in the Shibuya crossing. It cut to a reporter reporting from a desk. “This shocking confession comes soon after Madarame’s home was broken into. The burglar in question was a former student of Madarame’s. However, as part of this confession, Madarame has decided to drop all charges against said student.
Furthermore, a little while after the break in, Madarame’s exhibit was the target of this message; A letter supposedly sent by The Phantom Thieves. This is not the first time this sort of thing has happened. While there are many who still are skeptical of the existence of these thieves, some are beginning to think that such a group may be real.
Needless to say, Madarame has been put under arrest. Due to Madarame’s age, he is being taken to the hospital for a full assessment of health. Once complete, he will be tried and sentenced.”
Among those watching at the Shibuya crossing was a boy in a coat and shoulder-length brown hair. “Phantom Thieves.”
Makoto was also watching. “The Phantom Thieves. Again. Hm.”
Another person in the crowd was Nakanohara, the person who led the Phantom Thieves to Madarame in the first place. He let out a single tear, as he quietly said “Thank you, Phantom Thieves.”
Meanwhile, the thieves were at their hideout. “Alright! Another success!” Ryuji shouted.
“Ryuji!” Ann said. “Not so loud!”
“Sorry” Ryuji said. “But more people are talking about us, eh.”
Yusuke looked onward. “Are you doing OK Yusuke-senpai?” Sumire asked.
Yusuke snapped out of his stupor. “Huh? Oh. Yeah.”
Everyone looked at him. “What’s up?” Ryuji asked. “I thought you’d be more excited.”
“Well… How do I put this?” Yusuke asked. “I’m glad that Madarame is finally paying for his crimes...but…” He sighed. “Living with Madarame, and everything that came with it is everything I’ve ever known. It’s just weird is all. I feel like what’s in front of me is this blank empty space.”
“Oh, uh, sorry” Ryuji said.
Sumire placed a hand on his shoulder. “I get it. That kind of thing can be hard. But it can bring about new good things too.”
Yusuke smiled. “You’re correct. In a way, that blank empty space is much like a canvas just waiting for a masterpiece.”
“I hope there’s room for us in that masterpiece you call life” Ren remarked.
“Hm. Of course” Yusuke said. “I cannot thank you enough for everything you did. Therefore, I humbly request to be a permanent member of the Phantom Thieves.”
Everyone else was surprised. “You don’t have to request anything,” Ren answered, smiling.
“Yeah, as far as we’re concerned, you’re already one of us,” Morgana added.
“I thank you,” Yusuke replied.
“So, ummmm” Ann said. “Do you still want to paint me?”
“Hm?” Yusuke said. “Well, I wouldn’t say that’s out of the question, but I don’t think now’s the best time to do that.”
“Right,” Ann said. She smiled. “Well, if you need me, you just have to call.”
“Just make sure you don’t do too good a job,” Ryuji said. “Otherwise the professional photographers she deals with will have your head.”
“Ryuji!” Ann said, shoving him playfully. Ryuji laughed.
“My, what a marvelous couple” Yusuke said.
Ryuji and Ann looked at him and turned cherry red. “What are you talking about?” Ryuji said, nervously.
“Y-Yeah. We’re just friends” Ann insisted.
“Really?” Yusuke said. “Huh. I guess I’m seeing the world in new ways. I apologize.” Ren and Sumire shared a snicker. Meanwhile, Morgana was frazzled. Jose noticed this and started scratching his ears. As much as Morgana didn’t want to enjoy it at that moment, he couldn’t help but smile.
After Morgana was placated, Jose stopped, turned to Yusuke, and said “So, do you need help moving into the dorms?”
“Hmmm” Yusuke thought. “Well, there’s a swath of police over at Madarame’s as we speak, collecting evidence. I assume that whatever’s left will be ‘my’ stuff, and I don’t know how much that is for sure though.”
Well we can go over and check it out” Jose said, optimistically.
“I’d like that,” Yusuke said.
“Wait!” Sumire interrupted. “If the police are there, will they find the treasure?”
Everyone was alerted, as no one had thought of that. Well, aside from Yusuke. “While I don’t know what on the periphery is mine versus Madarame’s, I know for certain a few things are, and the real Sayuri is hidden among them. We should be fine.” Sumire sighed a sigh of relief.
“So, what’s gonna happen to Kosuke?” Ann asked. “The news said that Madarame had dropped all charges against him.”
Yusuke nodded. “He actually contacted me soon after that, but before we all met up here. He said he was going to move to Sendai to start over.”
“I’ve been there before for some gymnastics competitions, '' Sumire said. “It’s quite lovely.”
“But, uh, what’ll he be doin’?” Rji asked.
“Apparently, another one of Madarame’s former pupils lives there,” Yusuke said. “He’s going to move with him, and he’s talking about this with the boss of his security company for a possible transfer.”
“I see,” Ann said.
“So, what do you think about the Phantom Thieves’s popularity now that we took down another baddie?” Ryuji asked.
“Hmmm” Ren thought. “Well, I think we can get deeper into Mementos now,” she remarked. “But as for what people think, it’ll take time.”
“Huh,” Ryuji said.
“So, how does this work now?” Yusuke said. “Do you have another target in mind?”
“Not really,” Morgana said. “Finding people to change their hearts requires legwork. And there’s no guarantee that the person would have a palace.”
“Meaning he pushes that onto us” Ryuji snided.
“Hey I found one person,” Morgana said.
“By almost getting kidnapped!” Ryuji retorted.
“That’s not the point!” Morgana said.
“Morgana stays with me most of the time” Ren said, trying to cool tempers. “So while he could go off and find leads, he’s better off staying with me in case anything happens.”
“Yeah!” Morgana said, only mostly confident in himself.
“...I guess that’s fair,” Ryuji relented.
“We wouldn’t want anything to happen to you, senpai,” Sumire said, giggling. Yusuke noticed Sumire’s slight blush, but decided not to make another remark, on the chance that it would spark another awkward moment.
“So” Jose interjected, “while we’re waiting, do you want to head over to the shack to grab your things now?”
Yusuke nodded. “Unless we have other business to attend to.”
Ren shook her head. “I just wanted us to meet up to make sure the confession went smoothly.”
“I certainly think it did,” Yusuke said.
“Oh yeah” Ann said. “Did Madarame ever say anything about the people he’s worked with?” Ann said.
“Sadly no” Yusuke said. “He was more caught up in his own dealings, rather than this apparent group.”
“I see,” Ann said. Ann was shaking a little, hesitant to ask what else was on her mind. “Well, did he give a reason as to why he said he let your mom die when according to the Will Seeds he didn’t?”
Yusuke grew more serious. “No, but I’ve been thinking about that. I think it has something to do with Madarame’s vanity. He has to be the most of whatever he’s embodying. He’s either the best artist of the modern age, the most heinous man he can be, or, as evidenced by the confession, the most remorseful. Him saying he let my mom die is his way of aggrandizing his own villainy.”
“Woah,” Ryuji said. “That’s...a lot.”
“Indeed,” Yusuke said. There was an awkward silence. “Well, we should get going, I guess.”
“Yeah,” Ren said.
“Hey, maybe we can find out if the police know anything,” Jose said, shifting the conversation. “Either about Madarame’s contacts, or any possible future targets.”
“My, you’re quite the thinker,” Yusuke said. “Very well. Let’s head off. Until next time!”
“Later” Jose said. The two of them headed to Madarame’s shack. The rest headed home for the evening.
Once the police left, Yusuke and Jose messaged the group.
Yusuke: I’m afraid we’ve had no such luck.
Ryuji: Wha?
Jose: While we were with the police, we didn’t hear anything about Madarame’s contacts.
Yusuke: We did hear some mumblings about drugs getting passed around Shibuya, but that’s about it.
Jose: No name, no nothing.
Ann: Well, that kind of stinks.
Ryuji: Do you think the police might be involved with the people Madarame was talking about?
Ren: As someone who was wrongfully arrested, I wouldn’t put it past them.
Yusuke: Hmmm.
Yusuke: Well, I don’t know if it would have come up much anyway.
Yusuke: Nothing about Madarame's palace was about this cabal anyway.
Sumire: So, stealing his treasure wouldn’t reveal much about it?
Yusuke: Precisely.
“That’s not a bad call, actually,” Morgana said.
Yusuke: And if the police are in on it, that part might get swept under the rug.
Ryuji: So, we’re basically back to square one?
Ren: Not quite.
Ren: We’re still the Phantom Thieves. So long as we’re out and about, we have the power to undermine whoever is abusing the metaverse.
Ryuji: I see. So we’ll be a constant thorn in their side! I love it!
Ann: But maybe we should be careful.
Ann: I mean, if these people are causing the mental shutdowns, and possibly have the police in line, then we’re dealing with some really heavy hitters.
“That’s true…” Morgana said. “Lady Ann’s so smart.”
Ren: Morgana says you’re smart Ann.
“What?!” Morgana said, panicking.
Ann: Tell him thank you. Morgana started blushing and muttering unintelligibly.
Yusuke: While that may be true, there are a lot of people who still don’t believe in us yet.
Yusuke: I’m sure if we can play our cards right, we can use that to our advantage as well.
Ryuji: I hear that. We gotta make sure that they'll never see us comin’!
Ren: We can’t forget about Eris and her deal as well.
Ann: Right.
Jose: Isn’t Eris’s whole thing to build us up to either side with her or fight with her?
Ren: Well, yeah. But it’s still important to remember that.
Ren: Besides, Eris is the emissary of chaos. She won’t hesitate to disrupt anyone’s plans so long as it suits her needs.
Ann: Yeah.
Ann: So the best thing to do is keep a steady head.
Ren: Yeah.
Yusuke: Well, sorry we couldn’t find anything useful.
Ryuji: Nah, it’s fine. It was probably a long shot anyway.
Jose: We should head to Kosei and get you settled in.
Yusuke: You’re right.
Yusuke: Good night.
Ryuji: G’night.
Ann: Good night.
Sumire: Good night.
Ren: Good night.
Ren set her phone down and laid in her bed.
Meanwhile, at the prosecutor’s office, the woman who was intimidating Sojiro was working on a laptop. As she was, the young man in the coat came in. “Ah, Niijima-san,” he said. “Working late again, I see.”
Niijima looked up from her computer and glared at the boy. “Akechi-san. To what do I owe the pleasure?”
“I was just hoping for some friendly chit-chat,” Akechi responded.
Niijima continued working away. “Those Phantom Thieves stuck again.”
“I saw that,” Akechi noted. “I believe your sister was in the crowd at the Shibuya Crossing when the confession was airing.”
Niijima glared at him once again. “Do you WANT to irritate me?”
“Not at all,” Akechi said. “Like I said, I want this to be friendly.”
Niijima continued to glare for a bit, and then relented. “So, what did you wish to discuss?”
“Well, I’m assuming that you believe that these so-called ‘Phantom Thieves’ are the ones behind the mental shutdowns,” Akechi surmised.
“I do,” Niijima answered. “The M.O. matches up.”
“Well, about that,” Akechi said. Niijima was curious. “While it’s true that the Phantom Thieves cause a change in behavior, as do the mental shutdowns, the examples we have from the Phantom Thieves don’t match the examples we have from the mental shutdown cases. Besides, why start signing their work now?”
“Maybe they think they can get away with it,'' Niijima answered.
“Well, I guess that’s one way of thinking,” Akechi said.
“And you think that these two are unrelated?” Niijima asked.
“Well, not entirely,” Akechi said. “I believe the tactic used is similar, but I think they’re being used by two different groups.”
“Hm” Niijima grunted. “No matter. Even if your hypothesis is true, it’s still worth investigating them. If they know how to operate similarly, they might have an inkling who’s behind the shutdowns.”
“I suppose that’s true,” Akechi relented. “Still, you are awfully focused on this.”
“Your point being?” Niijima snapped back.
Akechi smiled. “With such a one-track mind, you might not be able to see what’s going on elsewhere.”
Niijima glared at him once more. “You’re one to talk.”
“Harsh. But true” Akechi said. “Maybe it’s time we find some life preservers before we both drown in our work and insecurities.”
“Maybe,” Niijima said. She went back to clacking away on her laptop.
“Well, good night Niijima-san,” Akechi said.
“Good night Akechi,” Niijima replied. Akechi started leaving. Before he fully left, he looked over Niijima once more. He was concerned, but couldn’t do much. He left.
The next day, after school, the announcements came on. Principal Kobayakawa began speaking. “Ahem. Attention students of Shujin Academy. Please meet in the gym for an assembly.”
“I wonder what this is about?” Morgana pondered. Ren shrugged and headed over with the rest of her class.
When everyone assembled, Kobayakawa took the stage once more. “As you may know, recently one of our faculty was caught up in a scandal.” There was some muttering about this, mostly about the disingenuousness of the principal. “However, the school wishes for you to continue learning, and to continue to have the best possible education. So, while we are looking for a permanent staff member, someone has agreed to be the interim gym teacher here at Shujin Academy.” There were some more murmurs. “Please welcome, Coach Chika Hiraguchi!”
Kobayakawa moved away as Coach Hiraguchi took the stage. Students were confused, but clapped anyway. “Thank you, Principal Kobayakawa,'' she said. She turned to address the students. “I know how difficult things have been here recently. That is why I don’t expect to have your trust right away. However, I do wish that for the time I am here I can prove worthy of your trust. I look forward to working with you, and making sure your school life is as good as it can possibly be.” She bowed. “Thank you.” The students clapped. From some of the mumblings Ren heard, they seemed to be impressed with her professionalism.
Kobayakawa took the stage again. “Yes. And thank you, Coach Hiraguchi.” He faced the students. “Please make sure to help Coach Hiraguchi feel welcome. You are dismissed.”
After the assembly, the Shujin-based Thieves met up. “So, your gymnastics coach is teachin’ here now?” Ryuji asked.
Sumire nodded. “Remember that day the principal called me to meet with him. It was decided then. As long as she’s here, I can continue as an honors student with all that brings.”
“You feeling alright?” Ren asked.
“Yeah,” Sumire answered. She sighed. “I don’t know. I mean, it’s nice, but… it just feels weird. It seems more and more apparent that the world is moving without Kasumi, and that…” Sumire didn't have to finish the sentence. Ren wrapped one arm around her shoulder and pulled her in, rubbing her arm in an effort to calm her down. “Thanks. … I think I’m going to go practice with Coach today.” Ren nodded and let go. Sumire headed off.
“I should go too,” Ann said. “Shiho and I made plans for some one-on-one time today.”
“Really?” Ryuji said. “Well, I can’t complain, I guess. Have fun.”
“Thanks,” Ann said. She left to meet up with Shiho.
“I should get going too,” Ryuji said. “I’ve got something I need to do. Oh, but maybe you should buy some gym clothes.” Ren was confused. “I found a good place for a workout, now that our secret area isn’t so secret anymore.”
Ren nodded. “I’ll be sure to do that.”
“OK. Thanks” Ryuji said. “Seeya!” He rushed off. Ren decided to take Ryuji up on his offer and shopped for some workout clothes. After which, she headed to one of her jobs.
As she was wandering about Tokyo, she began to notice some things. The people, the buildings, the sounds. Ren had just moved here about two months ago, but everything changed so suddenly. To her, Tokyo was starting to feel like home. Ren smiled at that notion and continued walking with a spring in her step.
P5R: Rebel Girl (A FeMC Story/P5R Rework) Chapter 45: Old Wounds
Ren was a little anxious waiting on the confession. Yusuke had been keeping them updated about Madarame’s condition, and it seemed good, but Madarame was old. She was worried that all of this might have put too much strain on him, and he couldn’t handle it. Then again, if he had the power to abuse his students, maybe he could make it though.
Still, he felt best to alleviate some of her worries by going to talk to Dr. Maruki about her concerns, both in and out of the metaverse. She shot him a message first, in case anyone else had plans to see him.
Ren: Hey doc, are you available?
Dr. Maruki: The coast is clear.
Ren: OMW then.
She headed over. Once she got there, she knocked on the door. “Come in,” Maruki instructed. Ren walked in. “Have a seat.” Ren did so. “What’s on your mind?”
Ren put her head in her hands. “Well, right now I’m just a bit worried.”
“How come?” Maruki asked.
“Well, it’s just our latest target…” Ren responded.
“Ah yes, I heard about that,” Maruki said. “Madarame, huh. I would never have guessed.”
“Well, it’s becoming more and more apparent to me that not everything is as it seems,” Ren said.
“True” Maruki retorted. “So, what’s the issue then?
“Well, I’m just worried that because of Madarame’s advanced age, the combined stress of almost having his palace taken over and his treasure stolen, it might just be too much for him,” Ren explained.
“I see,” Maruki said. “While it is true that your emotional standing can take a toll on one’s physical health, I don’t think there’s too much to worry about.” Ren looked up. “Remember, the shadows are incomplete, and that includes the shadows of those who have palaces. So, them losing their palace and treasure is more akin to them running out of steam. So long as someone is taking care of him, he should be fine.”
“Hm,” Ren said. “He should be fine then.”
“Well, that sure seems quick,” Maruki said. “Is there anything else you’d like to talk about? How are you outside of being a Phantom Thief?”
Ren seemed a little puzzled. “Fine enough, I guess.”
“Well, you certainly are a strong one,” Maruki remarked.
“What’s that supposed to mean?” Ren asked, slightly indignant.
“Well, it’s just, not a lot of people would say they’re fine after getting falsely accused of assault,” Maruki noted.
Ren sort of pouted. “I guess that’s true.” There was a bit of silence. Ren sighed. “I’ve sort of noticed that Tokyo has changed me.”
“In what ways?” Maruki asked.
“Well, for starters, I have friends now, '' Ren said. She then realized what she had said. She panicked for a second, but decided to keep going. “Back home, I never really connected with anyone. Well, maybe when I was younger. But as things changed, no one really wanted to be friends with me.”
“I see,” Maruki observed. “Might I ask, how did you make your first friend in Tokyo?”
Ren looked at him. “Well, that, um…” She took a deep breath. “On my first day at school, I came across Ann at a crosswalk. Then Kamoshida pulled over and invited Ann in the car. He invited me as well, and we both agreed to it. I went solely to make sure Ann was alright.”
“Hm,” Maruki said, jotting things down. “So, you didn’t know her, but you wanted to keep her safe?”
Ren looked at him. “That’s right. And then when we got out, we just stuck together for the rest of the day. Well, except for when Ann had to use the bathroom. And just my luck, Kamoshida called me to his office then.”
“He tried to make a move on me,” Ren said. “But before anything could happen, Ann came in and took me out of there.”
“Hm. Well, that certainly was lucky, don’t you think?” Maruki asked.
“I guess so,” Ren said.
“Sorry, but that wasn’t entirely the answer I was expecting,” Maruki said. “She saved you because you were friends, correct?”
Ren was shocked. “I guess. But I don’t think Ann was just returning the favor. She felt really bad about not telling me about Kamoshida before that happened.”
“Hm. It seems like you have all the pieces, but you’re having trouble putting them into place” Maruki said.
Ren was confused. “I don’t suppose you have an answer then.”
“I may,” Maruki said. “But let’s see if you can’t find an answer first.” Ren thought for a moment. “If I may, let’s jog that thought process. What do you suppose would happen if you hadn’t met up with Ann but were still called to Kamoshida’s office?”
“I’m not sure,” Ren responded. “I’m not sure what would have happened between me and Kamoshida had Ann not interrupted.”
Maruki laughed. “Sorry, but you sort of touched on the answer.” Ren was perplexed. “You’re wondering what would have happened if Ann hadn’t shown up. But that’s not what I asked.” Ren was surprised. “All I asked was ‘What would happen if you hadn’t met Ann, but Kamoshida called out to you?’ Nowhere in that scenario does it state that Ann wouldn’t come.” Ren was shocked. “I think we’re sort of getting to the heart of the issue.”
“And that would be?” Ren inquired.
Maruki gave a serious look. “It’s hard for you to accept kindness at face value.” Ren was stunned. “This is just a hypothesis, but I’m guessing that due to that lack of connection you talked about in your hometown, you’re not used to receiving kindness from others. So when it does happen, you’re not 100% sure how to handle it.”
en thought about this for a moment. “I’ve been told...similar things...recently… You’re good.”
“I didn’t go to college for nothing,” Maruki said.
“What do you suggest I do?” Ren asked.
Maruki paused. “Well, like most things, this isn’t an overnight fix. But I think this is a case for Ockham's Razor. You have friends now. You should work on accepting their kindness when it is offered.”
Ren seemed a bit disappointed in herself. “I guess that makes sense.” She sighed deeply.
“I guess that’s a bit harder than I thought,” Maruki reacted.
“No, it’s just…” Ren said. “I get what you’re saying, and I think I’ve been getting better at that, but after spending so long putting up walls, it’s hard to know how to take them down without breaking.”
Maruki clearly saw Ren was troubled. The idea that people would be nice to her without reason is something that rarely crossed her mind, and in turn it made her keep people at arm’s length. In an instant, Maruki decided to do something a bit drastic.
“...as Rumi” he said, seemingly randomly. Ren looked up at him, confusion strewn about her face. “‘I’m not as good a cook as Rumi.’ That’s what I was saying at the clean up.”
Ren was curious about this sudden topic shift, but decided to roll with it. “And, who is Rumi?”
“My ex-girlfriend,” Maruki stated.
“Oh” Ren said, trying not to push it.
“Heh,” Maruki chuckled, catching Ren’s attention. “Our break-up was a little unusual.” Tears started to stream down his eyes. “You see, we were engaged to be wed. However, fate can be cruel sometimes. Her family home was robbed, and her parents were murdered. She went into a catatonic shock, and fell into a coma.
I visited her every day in the hospital. I was at a point where I’d give anything to see her smile again. Fate can be funny too. I had been researching cognitive psience a bit, and in the moment I wished for anything to get Rumi back, she woke up. However, she had no idea who I was.
I think whatever power I had was starting to manifest. After she had woken up, the doctors had examined her. Her memory was scuffed, but she was Rumi all the same. However, I decided that if I were to stay in Rumi’s life, it would only serve to hurt her. So, we split up.
After that, I grew even more involved in my research. I was more dedicated than ever to use cognitive psience for good. To make sure no one had to suffer like Rumi did. And when that was taken away from me, my palace appeared. But that didn’t last either.”
Ren was awestruck. Maruki had just said a lot, all the while his eyes were flowing like a river. “Why did you tell me all of that?”
“Well,” Maruki began, tears still erupting from his eyes, “I figured I needed to lead by example.” Ren was a tad puzzled. “You were worried about how to be more accepting of kindness and changing how you relate to people without breaking. The answer to that is break. Breaking is good. It shows that you’re responding to someone’s honest feelings with honesty of your own.”
“And that’s why you decided to spill your guts about what happened to you?” Ren asked.
Maruki nodded. He took his glasses off, dried his eyes, and put his glasses back on. “To be honest, I’ve never really gotten past what happened with Rumi. And I guess that led to the creation of my palace. But now, I have to face it head on if I wanna get anywhere else. And I suggest you do the same. You’re probably stronger than I am, which is why you seemed to hold out in your sense of justice this entire time. But if you wish to let Tokyo mold you into the best person you can be, then it’s important to show weakness when needed.”
Ren nodded. “Right.”
Councilor-Takato Maruki: Rank 2
She got up and bowed. “Thanks doctor.”
She was about to leave, but before she could, Dr. Maruki called out “Wait!” she stopped. “Before you go, would you care for a snack?” Ren smiled and picked something out of his bowl of treats.
As Ren was heading out, eating her snack, Morgana popped out “Um, don’t take this the wrong way, but it seems like you were already doing the stuff Dr. Maruki suggested. So why thank him?”
“Well, it’s complicated,” Ren said, between bites. “It’s like when you have a question in your mind, and it’s plaguing your every thought, but when you say it out loud the answer is crystal clear. I might have been growing, but now I have more of an awareness of it. Does that make sense?”
“I guess,” Morgana said, a little embarrassed. “It’s like when you picked up on my crush on Lady Ann when I told you I only have the mission to think about.”
“There you go,” Ren said. She continued eating and heading out.
Later that night, she arrived at Untouchable. “Hey,” Iwai said.
“How’s business?” Ren asked.
“Business is going fine,” Iwai said. “But I’m also working on something.”
“I hope it’s more customizable parts,” Ren said.
Iwai grinned. “Ha. But no. I’m looking into the information we acquired from the diner the other day.”
“Oh” Ren said, deadpan.
Iwai looked forlorn. He sighed. “I guess I gotta tell ya. Otherwise things won’t make sense. At least, if things play out as expected. That guy, Masa, and the guy he was talking to, Tsuda. Back in the day, the three of us were mafia brethren.” Ren was a little stunned. “Back then, I was just a dumb kid lookin’ for a place to belong. And I found it. At least for a while.”
“What happened that you gave it up?” Ren asked.
“Well…” Iwai began.
The door then opened up. They looked over to see a boy a bit younger than Ren. “Hey” he said.
Iwai was a bit shocked. “What’d I tell you about coming here unannounced?”
The boy was stunned. “...Sorry.”
Iwai sighed. “No. I’m the one who’s sorry. I didn’t mean to snap at you like that.”
The boy looked at Ren. “Who’s she?”
“She’s just some hired help,” Iwai explained.
The boy was surprised. “You hired someone?”
“Yeah, well…” Iwai lamented.
“That’s great!” the boy said. Iwai was surprised. “You've been stressed out lately, so it’ll help to have someone lighten the load.”
wai was still shocked. “Heh. Careful now. With thinking like that, if you start a business of your own, you might run me out.”
The boy’s face was now flush. “Aw stop. You’re embarrassing me.” He turned to Ren. “I’m Kaoru. Kaoru Iwai.”
Ren was a little surprised. “My son,” Iwai said, hoping to clarify, but only serving to confuse Ren some more. “He’s a third year in middle school.”
Kaoru nodded. “And what’s your name?”
Ren was still trying to process everything. Still, she composed herself and introduced herself. “Ren. Ren Amamiya. Second-year high schooler, and part time worker at your father’s store.”
“Wow,” Kaoru said. He bowed. “Nice to meet you.”
“Likewise” Ren said.
“So, what are you doing here anyways?” Iwai asked.
“Oh, right,” Kaoru said. “I’m wondering if you’ll be home for dinner tonight. I headed out shopping and was wondering if I needed to get enough food for the both of us, or just me.” Ren took note of that particular line.
Iwai checked his phone. “You say you just left to go shopping?” Kaoru nodded. “Alright. Get enough for both of us. I’ve gotta finish a few things around the shop, and then I’ll join you, and we can go home together.”
“Oh. OK” Kaoru said. He started to leave. “It was nice meeting you, Ren. Ah. I should be calling you ‘Ren-snepai’.” Ren blushed just a little. “See you later!” He left.
Iwai looked a mixture of relieved, disappointed, and amused. “So, what happened to Kaoru’s mom?” Ren asked.
Iwai was now more surprised than that strange trio of emotions he felt a second ago. He sighed. “Well, for starters, Kaoru isn’t my biological child” he began explaining. Ren felt confused, concerned, and weirdly, relieved. “Do you want the lie or the truth?”
“Both, if possible” Ren said, defaulting on her natural playfulness.
“Hm. Figures” Iwai said. “I told Kaoru, and pretty much everyone who doesn’t know me, that Kaoru’s parents died in a car crash, and I took him in. I figured something must have happened to him. When I first came across him, I noticed he had this scar shaped like a gecko.”
“You mean, like yours?” Ren asked.
“Well, that came after,” Iwai said. “I got it to show solidarity with Kaoru. It’s like a family crest.”
“Softie” Ren teased.
Iwai smiled, unable to deny that. He grew serious again. “What really happened was that Kaoru’s birth mom came to some of us in the Yakuza asking to sell Kaoru for drug money. When we said no, she just left him there. I decided to take care of him then. And that meant going on the straight and narrow.”
Ren was surprised. “Damn and I thought you were a softie with the lie.”
“Heh” Iwai grunted. “I just figured that this kid needed a fighting chance.”
Ren rolled her eyes. “So, Kaoru doesn’t know you are ex-yakuza?” Iwai shook his head. “Why not tell him?”
“Because…” Iwai said. “I don’t want him being dragged down by me. I know my parents never gave enough of a shit about me, so I’m trying to give enough of a shit about him. If he finds out I was a mafia guy, he’ll know I’m a failure, and all of that will go down the drain.”
“I still think you should consider it,” Ren said. “If you’re so worried about him finding out via him walking in, it might be better to explain it on your own terms.”
Iwai thought about it. “Maybe. But he’s got a lot to focus on right now. I don’t wanna drag him down when he needs to focus on things like high school entrance exams.”
“I guess that’s fair” Ren said. “But maybe you should tell him before things get out of hand.”
Iwai sighed. “You’re probably right, but I have my own hang ups.”
“That’s fine,” Ren said. “I’m not hang up free either, so I get it.”
Iwai smiled. “And you call me a softie.”
“What can I say? Birds of a feather…” Ren noted. Iwai got a good chuckle out of that.
Hanged Man-Munehisa Iwai: Rank 3.
“Anyways, you should get going,” Iwai said. “In case you forgot, I've gotta get home for dinner.”
“Right” Ren nodded. She gleefully left the store and went back to Leblanc.
P5R: Rebel Girl (A FeMC Story/P5R Rework) Chapter 47: See Through
After school the next day, Ren was walking out when she overheard some commotion. “So, what’s she really like?” one student said. This caught Ren’s attention.
“Yeah,” another continued. “Does she have any weaknesses? Or anything like that?” Ren turned to face them. Two students had crowded Sumire.
“Ummmm” Sumire was a bit nervous.
“C’mon. You've known her practically your whole life” the first student said.
“Yeah. If we could just get some pointers for dealing with her, that'd be great,” the second student added.
Ren was about to interrupt, when Sumire blurted out “You want to ‘deal’ with her?” The two other students nodded nervously. “Then just work hard. She appreciates that.”
“What?” The first student said, in shock and hesitation about what was coming.
“You heard me,” Sumire said.
“There’s-there’s gotta be something else, right?” the second student asked.
Sumire shook her head. “Just work hard. Is that really too much effort?”
“Well…” the first student said.
Now Ren was more scared about what Sumire was gonna do to the other two. So she gently walked up and said “Hey Sumire.”
The two other students looked back at Ren, spooked by the sudden interruption. “Oh, hi senpai!” Sumire said, changing into a very cheery voice on a dime.
“Senpai?” The second student said.
“As in ours too?” the first one said.
They looked at Sumire, and then at Ren. They turned to Ren, bowed, and said “We’re sorry!” before dashing off before anything could be done.
“That...was odd,” Ren said.
“Yeah,” Sumire agreed.
“So, what were they talking about that got you so worked up?” Ren asked.
“Oh. They were asking about Coach Hiraguchi” Sumire said.
“I see,” Ren said. “I’ve gotta be honest, I’m a bit impressed.”
“Thank you,” Sumire said with a smile.
Ren continued. “But also a little disappointed.” Sumire was confused. “It’s great to see you standing firm, but you don’t seem to do that when you’re the topic of discussion.” Sumire averted her eyes. Ren lifted her head up to meet her eyes. “Sumire, you’re amazing. You gotta show that more.”
Sumire’s heart was now beating a mile a minute. She needed to do something to distract from that before it overwhelmed her. “Well... The same could be said about you” she retorted Ren was confused. “You have no trouble helping someone in need, but from what I’ve seen, you have a harder time allowing people to help you.” Sumire’s face was still red, but Ren thought this was about the intensity of her statement.
Ren wasn’t quite sure what was happening, but felt like she needed to say something. “You’re doing it again. You’re kicking up a storm about me, and not you.”
“So are you!” Sumire pointed out.
The two girls looked away from each other, embarrassed about what was happening. “This’ll just keep going forever if we let it,” Ren lamented.
“Yeah…” Sumire agreed.
They stood there for another moment. “Well, seeya, I guess…” Ren said.
Ren tried to leave, but Sumire grabbed her arm. “Wait!” she said. Ren turned back to her. “Um, if it’s OK with you, there is something I’d like your help with.”
Ren turned some more to face her, as Sumire let go. “Sure.”
“Thanks,” Sumire said. She blushed ever so slightly. “Well then, let’s go.” Sumire said, walking off. Ren was stunned, and decided to follow her. Ren wasn’t sure where they were going. She was a bit distracted by Sumire’s energy. When she finally thought about it, it was too late to say anything.
They arrived at a glasses store in Kichijoji. “You wanted to buy glasses?” Ren asked.
“Well, they aren’t for me…” Sumire said. She looked down at her feet. “I know you just got done dressing me down for putting other people before me, but this is something I actually want to do.”
Ren looked at her. “Sumire… I don’t want you to stop thinking of other people. You thinking about others, and the kindness you show is something I admire deeply about you. It’s just… I want you to think of what you want too.” Sumire looked at her intently. “Please don’t throw it back at me, I don’t want to get into that loop again.”
Sumire chuckled. She sighed. “Anyway, let’s head in.”
Ren nodded and the two girls walked in. “So, what are we here for?” Ren asked.
“Well, my dad needs a new pair of glasses,” Sumire explained. “And I felt like surprising him. Plus, um, that reporter we met apparently caused some trouble for him.”
“How so?” Ren asked.
“Well, I’m not sure really,” Sumire answered, “but apparently his boss wasn’t all too happy about it.”
“I see…” Ren said. She assumed a thinking position with her hand grabbing her chin.
“What’s on your mind?” Sumire said.
“I’m not sure,” Ren said. “Why would a reporter asking questions about Madarame concern your dad’s boss? The two things seem unrelated.”
“Hm, that is a bit odd,” Sumire said, assuming a similar thinking position. “But I’m not really sure. It might be one of those things where we’ll cross the bridge when we get there.”
Ren was slightly surprised, but fell into agreement. “Right. Whatever the case, if...he’s?” Sumire nodded, “dirty dealing, then we’ll come across it. If he’s just interested in running a tight ship, well then I guess the onus is on him.” Sumire nodded again. “So, those glasses?”
“Ah, right,” Sumire said. “Let’s look through their stock and see what they have.” Ren nodded and they started to peruse the gallery.
“So, do you have any idea what kind of glasses your dad would like?” Ren asked.
“Well...he’s very practical,” Sumire said. “But he’s also kind. So, I’m thinking something that’s simple, but shows who he is.”
“Who he is, huh…” Ren said.
Sumire picked up on Ren’s anxiety. “What’s wrong?”
Ren was stunned, but not entirely surprised by the question. She took off her glasses. “Before coming here, before getting into high school even, I switched over from contacts to glasses. I did this because…”
Sumire was a bit concerned. “Because…?”
“I dunno,” Ren said. “I thought they would help somehow.”
Help how?” Sumire wondered.
Ren sighed. “I wasn’t the most...well liked kid where I grew up” Ren explained. “I thought this would help my image somehow. That somehow people would be nicer to me if I had glasses. In middle school, I got into a bunch of fights, and that messed with my contacts a fair bit. So maybe I thought people would be less willing to break my glasses… But while I got into less physical confrontations in high school, everyone started fighting with their words and indirect actions, rather than a punch to the face.”
Ren looked at her glasses. “In a way, these glasses were supposed to hide who I was. But in the end, they just showed that I was someone who didn’t belong there. I mean, I guess they’ve been working since I’ve been in Tokyo, but that could all change in an instant. I feel like I’m just waiting for the moment things all go to Hell in a handbasket.”
Ren felt a presence grab her. She looked down to see it was Sumire giving her a hug. She felt...a lot of things. She felt happy, sad, embarrassed, confused, pathetic, but most importantly, she felt cherished; something she had only recently started getting accustomed to. “Senpai…”
Ren wasn’t sure what to say, so she said “Sorry” and put her glasses back on. Sumire let go. “I didn’t mean to bog you down with all that.”
“No!” Sumire insisted. “Er, what I mean is, thanks for telling me that.” Ren was more confused. “It...probably wasn’t easy to say all of that. But thank you for telling me how you feel, and opening up to me on that.” She took off her glasses. “I guess in the spirit of that, I should do the same.
Both Kasumi and I...we both needed vision correction. While Kasumi went for contacts all the time, I decided that I’d only wear contacts when performing, and glasses all other times. I told my parents I wanted to be different from Kasumi, and while that was true, a part of me was telling me that these glasses were to make me look cuter than Kasumi.” Ren was shocked.
“I know that sounds mean, and it kind of is,” Sumire continued, “but… I was always jealous of Kasumi’s natural cuteness. Well, as well as other things. I sort of felt like this would give me an edge. It didn’t, but by the time I realized that, things solidified. Kasumi was the one without glasses, and I was the one with. And now, I feel constantly torn. If I keep wearing my glasses, they serve to remind me of this awful part of me, but if I don’t I feel like I’d be copying Kasumi again.”
Ren was taken aback by all of this. Still, despite that, she knew exactly what to do. She gave Sumire a hug like Sumire did to her just moments before. “Sumire… Thank you.” Sumire started letting out tears. Ren backed up to put her hands one Sumire’s shoulders. “Whatever your feeling, feel it. I can’t say I understand entirely your relationship with your sister, or everything that comes with that, but I think you’d look cute either way, so whatever you decide, I’ll stand by it.” Wait, did I just call her cute?
Ren-senpai just called me cute! “I...I think I will keep my glasses.” She smiled. “Kasumi was also interested in finding the differences between us, so I think even though this might have started from a tinge of jealousy, between that and you calling me cute,” Ren’s face turned slightly red, “I think I’ll keep them.” Ren smiled. “Well, now that that’s all settled, let’s start looking for glasses for my father.”
They started looking. “What do you think of these?” Ren asked.
“Hmm, well they look really cool, but…” Sumire said. “...these are for my dad, so…”
“Gotcha,” Ren said.
Sumire picked up a pair. “What about these?”
Ren looked. “I’m not sure what kind of person your dad is, but those SCREAM ‘I’m from 20 years ago.”
“Yeah…” Sumire agreed. “I mean, I know my dad can be a bit stuck in his ways, but these are a bit too much.”
Ren saw something that interested her. She put them on. “Sumire, what do you think of these?”
Sumire looked. Ren was wearing a pair of gag glasses with swirly eyes, a big nose, and a mustache. She began laughing uncontrollably. “Why...why are these even here?” She asked between fits of laughter.
Ren started to laugh as well. “Probably for this reason.” She snickered some more. “C’mon, you try them on now.”
“Me?” Sumire said.
“Yeah, it’d be great!” Ren insisted.
“...Fine” Sumire relented. She put them on. “Well?” Ren tried holding it for a few seconds, but ended up in absolute stitches. Sumire was a tad annoyed at first, but then saw the humor of the situation and started giggling along. She took them off. “I guess these are pretty funny.”
After that, they decided to keep looking. However, nothing they found worked. “I’m starting to think we won’t find anything here that suits my dad” Sumire moped.
“Well, I mean, we did try,” Ren said. “Plus, I think we had a good time here anyways.”
Sumire smiled and blushed. “Yeah… Well, maybe we should get going.” As she started to head out, she noticed something. “Wait!” Ren stopped as well. She walked over and picked up a pair of red glasses. “Hmm. This is it! These are the glasses for my dad!”
Ren smiled. “Cool.”
Sumire was filled with confidence. She took them to the check-out. “I’d like to buy these please.” The cashier was a bit confused for a second. “They’re for my dad” she explained.
“Ah, I see,” the cashier said. She checked Sumire out and said “Have a good day you two.”
Once Sumire and Ren walked out, Ren said “Mission successful.”
“Yeah,” Sumire agreed. “And ever better, I did this myself. I made the decision, and I think it’ll pay off. Ah, what I mean is, I’ve been doing that thing you said where I wasn’t thinking about what I wanted. And a little while ago, if someone said ‘we should get him this pair’ I would have gone along with it. But now I made the final decision myself. And I’m proud of that.”
Ren looked at her, smiled, blushed, rubbed Sumire’s head, and said “Well done. You've come so far.”
“Right!” Sumire said. “And I’m not stopping now!”
Faith-Sumire Yoshizawa: Rank 4
Sumire turned to Ren. “Anyway, wanna get something to eat before we head off?” Ren nodded, and the two of them found someplace to eat. After that, Sumire headed home, while Ren did some part time labor.
The next day, Sumire was wandering through the halls of the school when she bumped into Coach Hiraguchi. “Ah, Sumire. Perfect timing.” Sumire looked at her. “There’s something I wanted to discuss with you. Can you meet with me after school?”
“Uh, sure,” Sumire said.
“Great, see you then,” Hiraguchi said. She walked off.
“I wonder what that’s about?” Sumire asked. She shrugged it off for now and continued on her way. Once school was over, Sumire headed straight for Hiraguchi’s office. “You wanted to see me?” she asked, walking in.
“Ah, yes,” Hiraguchi said. “Please, have a seat.” Sumire did. “Now, Sumire, I did say I wanted you in big competitions,” Sumire nodded, “but there is one coming up soon. If you’re not feeling up to it, I can get you out of this one, but only this one. I wanted to run this by you before doing anything.”
Sumire was shocked. Her coach had been nothing but supportive throughout this entire ordeal. Heck, she was even going through it with her to some extent. Sumire had always felt weak and insecure about herself and her performance, but she recently started to feel better about herself. Sumire smiled. “Thank you coach, but as much as I appreciate the offer, I want to participate.”
Hiarguchi smiled. “Very well. You know, I’m glad to see you coming in full force again. It almost feels like old times.” Sumire was surprised. “Anyways, thank you for coming to see me.”
Sumire had gotten up, bowed, and said “Thank you.” She left.
Hiraguchi watched her leave. “I know Kasumi would have loved to see this as well.”
It was lunchtime. Sumire had brought her food to the office of Dr. Maruki. She gulped. “Here goes.”
She was about to knock when she heard “Sumire-chan?” She looked up to see Dr. Maruki.
“Dr. Maruki!”
Maruki smiled. “Well, this was unexpected, but please, come in.” Maruki opened the door.
As they were about to walk in, they heard a voice. “Hold it.” They turned and saw the vice principal. “Principal Kobayakawa wishes to meet with you Yoshizawa.” He looked at Marui. “You should come as well.”
“Oh, uh, sure, I guess” Sumire said, confused.
Maruki noticed she was panicked. “Uh, I guess I’ll come along as well.” The three walked to the principal’s office.
They opened the room to an even bigger surprise. “Mom? Dad? Coach Hiraguchi?” Sumire yelped.
“Please, have a seat,” principal Kobayakawa said. Sumire sat down, while Mauki remained standing.
“What’s this about?” Sumire asked.
“I’d like to know as well,” Hiraguchi said. “You called me here suddenly, saying it was urgent.”
“Yeah,” Shinichi said.
“Ah, yes,” Kobayakawa said. “Please understand, this is all for Sumire-chan’s sake.” He got a little more serious. “It has come to my attention that Sumire hasn’t been going to practice every day that she could be.”
“Ah!” Sumire shrieked.
“Why I’m only hearing about this now is surprising to me,” Kobayakawa said. “I would have thought you would have called me by now Coach Hiraguchi.”
“Is this true?” Akane asked.
“Well…” Sumire started.
“It’s because I permitted it,” Hiarguchi said, surprising everyone in the room. “Sumire hasn’t been doing as well ever since… well…” Everyone looked a little pained, but Maruki also felt a tinge of guilt. Hiraguchi refocused. “She asked for time to find herself, and I agreed to that, so long as she came to practice once a week.”
Everyone was silent for a moment. “I see,” Kobayakawa said. “So it’s for her to get better at gymnastics.” Hiraguchi nodded. “Well, as noble as that goal is, you can agree that with her not pursuing gymnastics full time while still being an honors student might seem unfair.”
“What are you saying?” Shinichi asked.
“What I’m saying is we might need to remove her status,” Kobayakawa said. “I didn’t want to make any rash decisions, so I was hoping we could discuss this.”
“Are you out of your mind?!” Shinichi said, standing up.
“Calm down,” Akane said. Shinichi looked at his wife, nodded, and sat down.
“I can understand why you’d be upset,” Kobayakawa said, “but we at the school need to consider the feelings of all of our students.”
“You didn’t have trouble not thinking about that with the whole Kamoshida thing” Sumire said under her breath. Everyone looked at her surprised. She got surprised herself. “Did I say that out loud?”
Kobayakawa sighed. “While it was unfortunate what happened with Kamoshida, we had no idea it was going on.”
There was another uncomfortable silence. “Well, Sumire seems a bit… candid today” Maruki said. “Maybe we should hear what she has to say.”
Shinichi and Akane glared at him. “...Why are you asking to do this?” Sumire asked.
“Well, if you need to skip school for gymnastics events,” Kobayakawa answered. “Of if you’d like to pass on doing the otherwise mandatory clean up day next week to get some more training in.”
“...I was planning on going anyway,” Sumire said, blankly.
“I see…” Kobayakawa.
“I don’t think I’d be in great enough shape to ace any of the competitions,” Sumire continued. “Maybe I don’t need to be an honors student.”
“Sumire!” Akanae said.
“It’s alright,” Hiraguchi said. She looked at Sumire. “I understand you not feeling like you’d be at your best, but if you’re still interested in gymnastics, I still want you in those competitions. Win or lose, they’re good practice.”
“Now, hold on,” Kobayakawa said. “Being an honors student means getting results.”
“Huh?” Sumire said.
“Don’t you think that’s a bit much?” Maruki asked. “I don’t think that’ll help like you think it will.”
“Like you’re much help,” Shinichi mumbled.
“He’s gotten better…” Sumire said.
Her parents were shocked. Shinichi blurted out “But he-”
“I know!” Sumire said. “But in all honesty, it was helpful. If it wasn’t for him, I probably would still be barely able to get out of bed in the morning. Having Kasumi’s strength to lean on a little while longer pushed me enough to find my own strength. And while it hasn’t fully manifested, I’d like to think I’m getting somewhere.”
Shinichi and Akane were surprised. “If I may,” Maruki said. “I feel like giving Sumire the ability to do what she wants would be healthiest for her.”
“Now there’s an assessment of yours I can agree with” Hiraguchi said, snidely.
“I guess I’m a little infamous, huh” Maruki noted.
“So, what do you want to do Sumire?” Hiraguchi asked.
Sumire thought for a second. “Well, I want to continue doing gymnastics, and I wish to continue finding myself, but if I can’t be an honors student while doing so, then so be it.” Her parents were shocked.
“Now hold on,” Kobayakawa said. “I don’t think you can do gymnastics at the level you’re doing without being an honors student.”
“Well then, why don’t we make a deal?” Hiraguchi said.
“What kind of deal?” Kobayakawa said.
“Well, as Sumire pointed out earlier, you’re in need of a gym teacher,” Hiraguchi said. “You know my qualifications…”
“And your price is keeping Sumire’s honors status…” Kobayakawa said.
“A few other things as well” Hiraguchi. “But I’m sure we can discuss that further.”
Kobayakawa started Hiraguchi down. Hiraguchi stared back. “Very well. I’ll consider it. We’ll have a meeting to discuss this further. I’ll call with the details.”
“Thank you,” Hiraguchi said.
Kobayakawa smiled. “Thank you for your time.” Sumire, her parents, Hiraguchi, and Maruki left the room.
Shinichi sighed. “Are you OK dad?” Sumire asked.
Shinichi smiled. “It’s fine. It’s not about you. I just got called here from work at a bad time.”
“What happened?” Akane asked.
“My boss is breathing down my neck about this reporter asking questions of my crew,” Shinichi explained. Sumire blushed and averted her gaze. “But there’s not really much I can do about it.”
Maruki looked at Shinichi, Akane, and Hiraguchi. “I feel like I owe you all an apology” he said. The three looked at him. “While Sumire may have defended my actions, I cannot. I rushed my judgment. And while it seemed to have worked out in the end, I seemed to have caused the lot of you unintentional harm. As a psychologist, I should work towards lessening one's burdens, not adding to them. I’m sorry.”
They looked at Maruki. Maruki was waiting with bated breath. Shinichi approached him and said “At least you learned your lesson” and nodded.
Maruki laughed nervously. “Thanks?” Shinichi, Akane, and Hiraguchi left. Maruki looked at Sumire. “Well, it’s getting a bit late. Do you still want to eat lunch with me, or would you prefer to wait and talk with me after school?”
Sumire thought about it. “I… think I’ll wait.”
“Well then, have a good rest of your lunch” Maruki said. Sumire nodded and headed off. Maruki went back to his office.
Sumire headed to the lunch room where she found Ren, Ann, and Ryuji sitting together. She joined them. They could all sense a bit of nervous tension around her. “Oh, hey Sumire…” Ryuji said.
“How are you?” Ann asked. Sumire pulled out her lunch and started eating. “Woah, that’s a lot.”
As Sumire continued chowing down, Ren grabbed her shoulder, which caught her attention. “Hey. Are you alright?” Ren asked.
“Well… OK…” Sumire said. She explained what happened.
“WHAT?!” Ryuji said.
“That’s messed up,” Ann said.
“I mean, I don’t know,” Sumire said. “I still have a lot to figure out. There’s a lot of pressure that goes into being an honors student, and maybe not being one would make things easier.”
“Well, do you want to give up gymnastics?” Ren asked.
“Well, no…” Sumire said. “At least, not right now… It’s always been a part of who I am. A part of who WE are. Casting it aside feels like casting Kasumi aside.”
“I getcha,” Ryuji said. “That stuff can’t be easy to figure out.”
“We’re with you either way” Ann said.
“Whatever you want,” Ren began. She took Sumire by the hand. “We’ll support you. No matter what.”
Sumire started blushing, which in turn caused Ren to blush. When she saw Ren blush, Sumire smiled, nodded, and said “Right.”
“Yoshizawa-san?” rang out principal Kobayakawa’s voice. The gang of four looked up to see the improbably large man. “What are you doing sitting here?”
Ren felt a little guilty about the question. “They’re my friends,” Sumire explained firmly. “I needed some cheering up after what we talked about, and they helped me put some things into perspective.”
Kobayakawa looked at the three of them. “Yoshizawa, I’m not sure you should be hanging out with these three.”
Ann and Ryuji were mad. Ren just felt more guilty. “They’re my friends,” Sumire reminded him. “And I can hang out with whoever I want. They’ll help me get back on track faster. That’s what you want, right?”
The three second years looked at her in disbelief. “Holy shit…” Ryuji said.
“Sumire…” Ann added.
Kobayakawa grew distressed. “You wanted to see me?” Makoto said from behind him.
Kobayakawa turned. “Ah, Niijima-san. Perfect timing.” Makoto was confused. Kobayakawa pulled her up. “Niijima here is the student council president.” Kobayakawa explained. “Maybe she could be your friend.”
Sumire looked at the odd display. “Maybe… But these three ARE my friends.”
Kobayakawa got frustrated. Makoto broke from his grip. “What are you doing?” she demanded.
“Er, well, I was just explaining to our honors student that these three… might not be the best companions,” Kobayakawa said.
Makoto raised an eyebrow. “You’re referring to their circumstances, correct?”
“See? Niijima-san is very adept” Kobayakawa explained.
“I’m not finished,” Makoto said. Kobayakawa was stunned. “As far as I know, everything about Takami was either a lie set up by Kamoshida, or forced on her by Kamoshida. Sakamoto has been on his best behavior ever since he had a chat with his homeroom teacher. And as to Amamiya, she hasn’t caused any problems since she’s gotten here, correct?”
“Well, uh, I guess that’s true” Kobayakawa mumbled.
“Then I don’t see the problem,” Makoto finished.
Kobayakawa and Makoto glared at each other. ‘Do you have any information?” Kobayakawa said, changing the subject.”
This took Makoto by surprise. “Well, no…”
“Very well then” Kobayakawa said. He walked off.
Makoto sighed, partially because of relief, partially because of her nerves. “Hey” Ren said. Makoto looked up. “Thanks.” Makoto smiled. She left shortly after.
“Wow. I didn’t think Niijima-san would do that” Ann said.
“Yeah, well, we’re learning that people aren’t always what they seem,” Ryuji pointed out.
“Excellent point Ryuji,” Ren said.
Sumire checked her phone. “Ah! Is that the time?” She began vigorously munching down. Ren giggled. Soon after, lunch was over and the group headed back to their classrooms.
During their afternoon classes, Ryuji texted the group.
Ryuji: So, when are we going after Madarame’s treasure?
Yusuke: I would like to know as well.
Yusuke: He’s been getting more temperamental by the day.
Jose: Is that why you’ve been refusing my offers to hang out?
Yusuke: Correct.
Yusuke: Madarame would get mad if I wasn’t back before sundown.
Yusuke: I’m sorry.
Jose: It’s OK.
Jose: I will keep track of the time if need be.
Yusuke: I don’t wish to arouse suspicion.
Jose: Very well.
Jose: We’ll have all the time in the world after Madarame confesses.
Yusuke: True.
Ren: Well… About that…
Ryuji: ??
Ren: Kosuke paid a visit to LeBlanc last night.
Ren: He told me he was going to paint a picture of me and give it to me by next week.
Ryuji: Huh.
Yusuke: Interesting.
Ren: I think this gives us some breathing room as well.
Sumire: So, do you want to do it the day after the trash clean up?
Ann: Oh yeah. I’d forgotten about that.
Ryuji: Makes sense. We could plan everything after we clean up.
