It was lunchtime at Shujin. Namine, Ryuji, Morgana and Haru were on their way to meet their friends.
Morgana couldn't help smiling when he noticed how some students here and there would greet his friends. This went especially Namine and Ryuji, who had been treated like pariahs for so long thanks to circumstances out of their control. It was great to see that people were finally seeing them for who they were.
"Hyakuya-senpai!''
The group of four followed the new voice to the source to find Akari running over.
Namine smiled ''Hey, Akari-chan, how's it going on?''
"Pretty good!'' The younger girl beamed. ''I mean it was a pain to catch up to the homework after I left the hospital but everything's been brilliant! Hisashi let me redecorate our home and everyone's been saying it's so pretty and lively now. They think I may really have a knack for it!''
"That's great!'' Her exuberance was very nice to hear. Things had really been looking up for her since they changed her cousin's heart, it seemed.
Akari paused, remembering something ''Oh yeah-Okumura-senpai, if you see a first year girl with black hair that has a blue streak, I think you should avoid her.''
Haru blinked, baffled ''Why?''
We heard her talking about your family. Her grandma used to be rich. From the sound of it, she's looking to schmooze and suck up to you.''
The girl's expression turned into one of distaste at the thought and Ryuji shook his head ''Thanks, Koizumi. Haru hates that kinda crap.''
"Figured as much...'' Akari nodded. ''...she's way too nice to be like those typical rich snobs. I gotta say though, you guys sure got along fast, didn't you?''
Haru just smiled ''I was just lucky to find some great friends. Besides, I've gotten to know Nami-chan for months now and she's never cared about my family's wealth.''
"Nice!'' The other girl returned. ''Sooo, I was wondering-there's been a couple of rumors...''
Ryuji almost groaned ''Great, what now?''
"It's nothing bad… She said quickly. ''…just something about Hyakuya-senpai playing the piano really well the other day. Was that true?''
"Oh, it is. It was most excellent.'' Haru returned. She may not have heard the entire piece but what she caught was great.
It's nothing so special...but yeah, music's been my hobby for years and I just wound up playing in the music club the other day.'' Namine told Akari.
Haru perked up, deciding to bring up an idea she had before ''Speaking of which-Nami-chan? I was wondering...''
A short while later...
...And Haru suggested Namine could try performing in the school festival.'' Morgana put in as they finished re-telling the event.
Ann perked up ''That's a great idea!''
It was just as she finished texting the others over the group chat that Ryuji spoke up ''No one's sayin' you gotta do it...''
This made her blink and look over at him and Namine, noticing the girl's reluctance on the matter. ''You don't want to?''
"...I don't think so. That day with the piano was one thing and I did it on a whim. I don't feel up to this.'' Namine admitted. She was enjoying her old hobby like she used to and she practiced occasionally but this felt like a step too far.
Well, it's up to you.'' Ann returned while Haru nodded. They liked the idea and so did Futaba and Yusuke but no one would push her on this. ''Actually, about the festival...'' Ann looked at Makoto, forgetting the question she had in mind. ''...hey, what's wrong?''
Morgana blinked ''Makoto?''
The girl didn't respond, only starting when the cat prodded her knee. ''W-what is it?''
The others gave her odd looks as Ryuji asked the question they all had in mind. ''Uh, you okay?''
"Yes, why wouldn't I be?''
Haru's expression made it clear that she wasn't convinced. Neither were the others for that matter.
She frowned ''Did something happen? You were really distracted in class too. You hardly even answered any question right today-even the teachers thought it was odd.''
"Okay, something's definitely up.'' Morgana decided. After all, Makoto was the one who always focused on her studies and made sure the others put all their effort in as well.
"I-it's nothing for you to worry about...'' Makoto muttered, looking away.
"Even if you say that...'' Namine frowned, sharing a look with the others, who were just as troubled by her behavior. It didn't mean they werent' going to worry. Whether the girl admitted it or not, something was wrong.
Ryuji decided to change the subject for now ''So hey, Haru-is your old man really turning things around? Boss said something about how things were beginning to change at the company yesterday...''
"Oh, yes.'' The heiress seemed to perk up at this. ''I'm still not sure what he's doing exactly but he's been awfully busy as of late. I know he's been to a lot of meetings but all I'm sure is that he wants to change the situation at Okumura Foods. I found some of the papers he was working on this morning and I think he really does want to change things for the better. I intend to try finding out more soon.''
"Make sure you let us know what you find then.'' Morgana returned and she nodded.
"You know...this is different from before, huh? I mean, Futaba was a unique case and we barely know what went down with Kaneshiro but Kamoshida and Madarame were quiet for days.'' Ann recalled.
"Isn't it because we didn't take the treasure?'' Namine asked, looking at Morgana.
"Yup. Okumura had it the whole time-I was looking for a way to get it but after those two strangers showed up...''
"Everything went to hell.'' Ryuji added, nodding. Circe and Pluto's arrival had thrown everything into even more chaos. There had also been the bomb to worry about. With the time running so short when the shadows stopped battling, all they could do was leave...
"Then it's sort of like with Matsuoka-san and Koizumi-san, right, Mona-chan?'' Haru clarified and the cat nodded.
"Since we didn't take the treasure, the change of heart's consequences aren't as severe as they could be.'' The feline offered. ''In a way, we got lucky back there. We definitely have to keep a sharp eye out in the Metaverse. Who knows what those two are up to.''
As they agreed, Namine couldn't help but note that Makoto's gaze was distant once more...
After school...
"So we're going to the Metaverse tomorrow?'' Futaba clarified.
Haru nodded ''Takuto-sensei, Ryuji and Yusuke are busy and...''
"Makoto is...well...'' Namine paused, sharing an uncertain look with the former.
"Makoto's been acting strange today.'' Morgana told the confused hacker. ''We're pretty sure something's up but she won't say a word.''
Futaba blinked ''Weird...'' She paused at the sound of a phone ringing.
Haru realized it was hers ''Oh, excuse me.'' She answered it and walked a bit to the side.
The four of them decided to visit the Sky Tower. It had been a long time since both Futaba and Haru came here; they decided it would be a good time as any to visit.
Futaba shrunk back closer to her friends as she took note of the number of people around the tower. ''I don't remember it being this crowded...''
"Well, it's no more than the beach and you did well there.'' Morgana offered.
"Yeah, you'll be fine. We'll make sure of it.'' Namine patted her shoulder, eliciting a small smile.
Haru rejoined them shortly afterwards, smiling ''I have some good news. It turns out Father booked Destiny Land for a meeting that apparently fell through but he told me I may use the reservation instead. So I'd like to invite you all to celebrate our success.''
"Whoa, are you serious?!'' Futaba's face lit up.
Namine was about to comment when Morgana spoke up ''Isn't Destiny Land that park...?''
The girl nodded and took out her phone, bringing up some pictures of the place ''Here it is.''
Morgana's eyes widened ''Whoa-and here I thought Dome Town was big...That sure looks fancy. You sure about this, Haru?''
"Of course! It's nothing compared to what you've done all for me. Consider it my way of repaying you.''
"Okay, hold up.'' Haru blinked at Namine, whose eyes narrowed as she continued. ''You don't owe us anything for being your friends, you goof.''
The older girl smiled warmly at this ''Hehe, right. Then we'll just be going to have a great time.''
"Now you're talking!'' Futaba chirped as they went inside.
"...You know, this reminds me of a place I just checked in this game I've been playing.'' Futaba commented as they came out of the elevator.
"Is this like that fishing game you kept talking about?'' Morgana asked dryly.
The girl harrumphed at his tone ''Hey, I did great back there-I got those two big fish! I had loads of exp. points, you know.''
"Yeah, I'm pretty sure it's more because you're stupidly lucky.'' He countered.
"Green's not a flattering color on you, kitty.'' was Futaba's response.
"No one jealous here-nope, no way!''
Futaba gave a cheeky grin ''Keep telling yourself that.''
Haru laughed a bit at the exchange while Namine hid a smile ''Well, I don't know about your game, Futaba but there's nothing like coming to the real place. That's one thing I like about going out here, there's loads of fun stuff to do.''
"Oh yeah, you're from the country.'' Futaba mused. ''Must have been a real shock to come here-how many new experiences does that make for you now?''
The burgundy haired girl arched an eye ''This coming from the girl who admitted to never swimming without an inner tube until this summer?''
"Wha-hey!'' Futaba pouted while their friends laughed. ''Meanies.''
"Come to think of it, Nami-chan, you mentioned something about traveling a few times with your grandparents, right?'' Haru recalled.
The girl nodded ''They had a couple of business trips and other stuff to handle so every now and then, they'd let me go with them. You know, there was one time we almost went to Inaba but they canceled their plans by pure chance. If we had gone, we would've wound up there around the same time those murder cases took place.''
"Seriously? You mean the stories about the Midnight Channel and stuff?'' Futaba received a nod. ''Whoa, talk about good timing...''
"Yes, I'd hate to think any of you would be involved in those horrid incidents.'' Haru added.
Morgana remembered hearing a bit about those times from Futaba while the others were on the trip. But this did bring something he hadn't really thought of back then. ''You think those stories are real? I mean there was even talk about people being dragged into TVs or something, right?''
"No clue but it's hardly any stranger than what we deal with.'' Namine pointed out.
"True...'' The cat wasn't about to argue with that. ''...so hey, Haru-what was that about at the entrance? You looked like you were lost in thought.''
"Oh, I remembered a story Father told me over two years ago.'' The girl admitted with a growing smile. ''This is where he proposed to my mother. At least, he intended to set it up that way.''
Namine was curious ''So what happened?''
"Well, he invited her to dinner so he could propose. This place is really beautiful at night and many agree that it's quite romantic. Mother enjoyed her visits her too. Father was so nervous that he was...well, all over the place. When she asked him why, he fumbled and stuttered a bit. Then he wound up proposing right when they were at the elevator before he even knew it.''
Futaba snickered while Morgana laughed and Namine tried to suppress her own amusement. The second then spoke ''S-sorry, we probably shouldn't laugh...''
"No, it's all right. I had the same reaction.'' Haru assured. ''In the end, Mother was thrilled and people congratulated them. Father finds it quite amusing himself. It was a day they both looked back on fondly.''
"I think it's sweet. Sounds like your Dad just really wanted it all to work out so well he couldn't wait.'' Namine remarked and the girl nodded back.
Futaba glanced out the window ''Y'know, the view from here really is amazing. This is totally worth coming...It makes me feel like a deity peering down all my subjects!''
"A deity, huh?'' Namine half-smiled.
"Yup! If it'll keep you quiet, I guess I'll give you the privilege of continuing to hang out with me.'' Futaba said with a wink.
"Oh, what an honor.'' Namine returned with a similarly cheeky tone.
Futaba took on an imperious tone as she responded ''Good, I'm glad you understand.''
A moment of silence settled before the four shared a laugh. Futaba went on. ''Look at the trains! The whole city looks like a diorama, but there are really people living down there...The scenery looks way different when you think of it like that.''
"It gives you a whole new perspective, doesn't it?'' Haru remarked as she joined her.
"For sure.'' Futaba agreed. ''So where do you think Leblanc is from here...Can you guys show me?''
Namine walked over ''We can try,'' She started looking around. ''Hang on a sec...''
Since they would be meeting at Leblanc for dinner, Futaba and Morgana decided to go on ahead. As she was considering what to do, Namine got a text from Makoto, asking to meet at the entrance of the underground mall. Maybe she could help the brunette with whatever was troubling her...
Namine was rather confused to find Makoto holding some flowers and something she couldn't see in a bag. But the girl didn't say much and asked her to come along-promising to explain soon.
The brunette proceeded to place the flowers on a certain grave stone. Namine's eyes widened when she read the name engraved there, thinking things were starting to make sense. Without further ado, she began praying with her friend.
Makoto let out a breath ''...Thank you. I'm sorry if I've been difficult today-it's just not a good time for me. Today marks three years since my father died.''
Namine figured that explained it. The team knew how the brunette was not only close to the man but she clearly admired him. ''Don't worry about it. I can see why this would be hard on you.''
"Yes...'' Makoto closed her eyes for a moment. ''...everything changed so much since then. Sis takes him for a fool, thinking he died and left us in the lurch because of what she considers his foolish ideals. I keep wondering how she could believe such a thing but she never wants to listen to me. He did his best to ensure justice would be served-that couldn't be wrong. I wish I could prove it to her.''
"Well...maybe you need to give it some time. You said things changed for you, the same must have happened to her. It kind of seems like she's bitter. Technically as the oldest, it'd leave her with somewhat different circumstances.'' Namine remarked.
"I know...that's why I wanted to find a way to help her but she keeps insisting that I focus on my studies.'' Makoto's tone showed her frustration. ''It might even have to do with...'' She shook her head.
Namine wondered what she was going to say but she decided to dismiss the thought in favor of her next action.
Makoto bit back a cry of surprise when the other cuffed her lightly on the back of the head. ''W-what was that for?''
"You're the furthest thing from an idiot, Makoto so don't start acting like one.'' Namine looked annoyed. ''You obviously weren't up to going to school. You didn't have to force yourself like this-especially today.''
The brunette's expression made it clear that she didn't expect that. ''Oh, I...I guess I've become so used to focusing on my studies like Sis said that I never thought of it like that...''
Namine exhaled, irked with the prosecutor ''Now that you mention it...I'm beginning to see what you meant when you said your paths are different.''
"It looks more and more like they are...I suppose what we pulled off lately has me reflecting, like what my father would do if he had to deal with someone like President Okumura.'' Makoto admitted. ''Would he try to understand like we did or would he arrest him? I think our approach might be for the best but I can't help wondering...how we could ensure justice would take place.''
"That's fine too-we have to take in account that he could actually get killed if the criminal realizes that the truth got out. He really does regret what he did, this way maybe he and Haru can be a family again.'' Namine remarked.
She stopped to think for a bit before carrying on ''But going with what you said about your dad, wouldn't he try to do what's right in the end? It's because that we got to talk to the President that we really know what's going on. Making sure justice would take place isn't easy but it's something worthwhile, we have to understand what we really should be doing here. It isn't a black and white matter, the world isn't that simple. We can make a difference so we should put our power to good use, isn't that what we agreed on? Sure, we're still figuring things out but that doesn't mean our goal is impossible. We'd definitely need our reliable Miss President to make it happen.''
Makoto began to smile ''...Likewise, I couldn't imagine progressing with this goal without all of you. I made a promise not to hesitate, to keep going forward with all my power. And I intend to keep that promise.''
"There you go, with that kind of drive, you're golden.'' Namine smiled.
The brunette chuckled, she could only wonder how her friend had turned out to be such a good person after her experiences but she was so glad that they were friends.
The thought brought back a tendril of guilt as she considered the other matter she had in mind. Namine was one of the people she trusted the most and yet she...
"Namine, what would you think if...?'' Makoto faltered as the other girl gave her a curious look. The words died in her throat, making her look away for a moment. ''...it's nothing, thank you for today.''
"Oh-um, sure.'' The latter trailed off, puzzled. She had a feeling she was missing something here…
The next morning...
Sojiro's smile widened as he sipped the coffee Namine had prepared ''Huh, not bad. You're definitely getting better at this.''
The girl smiled ''Well, it's all thanks to my teacher. Besides, I just got some really good advice.''
"Oh yeah?''
Haru's liked coffee for a long time; she learned to make it from her grandpa. I think she's almost as much of a connoisseur as you when it comes to this stuff.'' The girl explained.
"You don't say...'' Sojiro smirked. ''...I knew that girl had great taste. But I gotta say, I'm especially glad you don't follow your own grandpa in this.''
"Boss, don't even go there.'' Namine cringed, because she knew exactly what he meant. Itsuki's preference in coffee had put her off the stuff for quite a while. ''I still remember how bad his coffee smelled. I made the mistake of saying it kind of looked like sludge and he never let it go for days. Grandma tried to teach him to change things. Of course now, it...''
"...still looks like sludge.'' The two found themselves saying in tandem. They stopped for a moment out of surprise before they laughed.
Morgana hummed happily as Namine continued strumming the guitar, they had just been taking a break while Fujitaka went to check something back at home. Since he tended to leave Asuka in charge anyway, the girl suggested a demonstration of Namine's skills...
Asuka listened to Namine play with a wide smile ''I never would've known you stopped playing for months, Namine-chan. That was great!''
The younger girl smiled back ''Thanks, Asuka-san.'' She put the guitar back before walking over to her. ''I've been meaning to ask-you were saying something about recent renovations when I came in...''
"Oh, yeah. Uncle Fuji just finished sorting everything out. This store actually belonged to one of his teachers; he was a really good friend of the family too. He lost the store because a corrupt businessman tried to take it from him and that jackass ruined it. He and Uncle both loved music and he always wanted to get the store back up and running. Only he died before he could ever return and Uncle Fuji decided to do it for him.'' Asuka explained.
"Wow...'' Morgana trailed off.
"That's a great thing to do...'' Namine started.
"Well, I'm glad you think so.'' Both girls almost jumped at the new voice, finding an amused Fujitaka watching them. ''This place was a source of great memories for me and a number of my friends. I hated to see it ruined because of greed. By the way, I have to say that was very well done, Hyakuya-chan.''
"Thanks. Asuka-san let me practice one of the stored guitars. You've got an awesome selection here.'' Namine added.
He chuckled ''Glad you like it. Actually, on the subject of guitars, I found a certain something that might interest you two...''
Fujitaka produced a sheaf of papers that left the three surprised. Asuka blinked twice Uncle Fuji, are those…?
"Mmhm, one of Miyano-senseis relatives sent that to me. It seems he took to writing music in recent years but he hardly showed those to anyone. Would either of you care for a little practice with me?" He asked, the girls intrigued expressions giving him the answer.
A short while later...
Namine smiled to herself as she watched a few people talking animatedly with Yoshida. She couldn't hear what they were saying from here but their friendly expression indicated a friendly conversation. Things had sure changed since he started really speaking out; people were looking forward to his speeches. She was really glad to see that.
"Looks like someone's a real hit around here.'' Morgana remarked with a grin.
"That's for sure.'' Namine agreed happily. She was about to approach the man when a few of the passerby greeted her, being familiar with her from the times she helped Yoshida.
This brought the former politician's attention to her. He smiled as he walked over ''Ah, hello-Namine-chan. I just ran into those people at the beef bowl shop and they were all saying how my speeches made them see take a whole new perspective on man things.''
"Hey, that's great! They're finally listening to you for real.'' She remarked and he chuckled. ''I thought I'd say hi. I was thinking it's been a while since we talked but things have been crazy.''
"Yes, I can imagine...Shujin must have been chaotic because of what happened to your principal.'' Yoshida remarked.
She nodded ''It's been one thing after the other. The police are apparently still convinced the Phantom Thieves were behind that accident even though there's nothing to show for it. But they think the calling card's enough proof to blame them for everything-like the shutdown incidents.''
"I've heard something along those lines. It sounds absurd though-I find it hard to believe that a group like the Phantom Thieves could go by unnoticed for over two years. From what I've come to learn about them, the accusations seem to be baseless.'' Yoshida reasoned.
Namine couldn't help the sense of relief she felt at those words ''I think so too. Anyway, how's the campaign going?''
The two began talking about Yoshida's plans and how to keep the campaign going...
Yoshida found himself curious by something Namine let slip ''Do you mean the pace in that shop is always so hectic?''
The girl nodded ''It was crazy. I don't even know how they keep the place running. There was only one guy running practically everything. I heard something about the business doing budget cuts but come on...''
Namine shook her head. She'd once considered taking a part time job there but even Ryuji (with his love of beef) admitted that he wouldn't be caught dead working there. That was really saying a lot. ''...I mean, there's being cheap and then there's...that.''
"That is worrying.'' Yoshida had a thought. ''Perhaps I could...''
But before he could finish the thought, his phone rang. He picked it up ''Hello?'' Yoshida blinked. ''Matushita? What is it?''
"What did you want to discuss?'' Yoshida asked as they came face to face with the man.
"I heard you met with Kuramoto's grandson.''
Yoshida didn't seem surprised that he knew ''You have your ears to the ground, huh? And to think that he's the only candidate the party is backing to ruin my chances of winning.''
I'll be completely straight with you, since I already asked you to be my right hand man. We're currently fighting the Kuramoto group.'' Matushita stated, crossing his arms.
"You're fighting with Kuramoto-san?!''
"I have ambitions of my own, you know. I owe him for all he did but I don't want him to have influence over me forever. All the more, now that he's secretly working with Diet members from other parties. I know he asked you to join his group but I think you should decline.'' Matsushita paused. ''They want to keep you on a leash so you won't reveal any damaging information. The real culprit of the expense misappropriation case you were blamed for...is old man Kuramoto.''
Whatever they expected, it certainly wasn't that.
"What did you say?!'' Yoshida exclaimed.
"Whoa, wait! Your teacher's the one who ruined his career?'' Namine asked.
Matsushita nodded ''I was shocked too but that's why I looked further into this. I searched through the party's off the record accounts from 20 years ago...there's no doubt. Can you still forgive him? He led you into the political world and kicked you out in the worst way!''
"But why?'' Yoshida looked down.
Namine spared him a concerned glance. Morgana's eyes narrowed ''What a piece of work...''
"Seems his bought his popularity and as a result he was having serious financial troubles.'' Matsuhita offered.
"It sounds as if you're saying this is the opportunity to clear my name...and so you need an answer from me on whether or not I'll be your right hand man, yes?'' Yoshida clarified.
The latter nodded ''His own grandson already tried to persuade you. I can't wait any longer. If you join me, you can accuse Kuramoto. You can clear you name and put No Good Tora behind you. This is your best and last chance!''
"Join with Matsushita and take my revenge but drop out of the election...'' Yoshida summarized.
Namine spoke up after almost a minute, deciding she couldn't just stay silent.''...For what it's worth, I don't think you should do it. Remember what we talked about at the restaurant?''
Her mentor thought that over ''Matsushita...I appreciate the offer but I must decline.''
The man frowned ''You have no conceivable REASON to!''
Yoshida's expression was firm "My goal is to become a member of the Diet, not a right hand man. I refuse to cast aside my beliefs."
Matushita looked dismayed ''This information would be the deciding factor in taking down Kuramoto...''
"I'm sorry.'' Yoshida returned earnestly.
"Don't worry about it. I was simply offering you a deal. I assumed you might decline. Very well please forget it, I'll talk to the party an provide support for your next speech about the Phantom Thieves.'' Matsushita declared.
Namine blinked, sharing a puzzled with Morgana. Yoshida hadn't mentioned anything about this. He was planning to talk about them?
Yoshida was confused ''Why?''
"I don't want a debate. I simply want to draw attention to them. And you can assert your innocence on a grand stage. To be frank I'll be happy as long as the Kuramoto group's influence diminishes. Hyakuya-san...Don't speak a word of this for anyone, for both of our sakes.'' He walked away after the girl nodded, leaving the two to contemplate all this.
Yoshida exhaled ''I'm caught in the crossfire of a political conspiracy. My friend is taking advantage of me and my former mentor is trying to win me over. To achieve my dream, I may have to set aside my beliefs..."
"Well, setting aside your beliefs...won't it be like what you told me before? Not really doing it for any right reason. I understand that you're upset but would going for payback make you feel better? You've done so well so far. I don't think revenge would be worth it. Try focusing on the elections-at least that sounds right to me.'' Namine admitted.
"Indeed, this would be all futile if I don't become a Diet member. I must focus on getting re-elected. However, betraying oneself to reach a goal would be a hollow victory indeed.'' Yoshida smiled. ''For some reason, just talking with you always helps me make up my mind. It's as if my heart is being manipulated.''
"Really?'' Namine tilted her head. ''Well, maybe it's more like you just need something of a sounding board since you seem to know the answers. Besides, everyone could use a helping hand every now and then.''
He chuckled ''That maybe so...perhaps, the Phantom Thieves are very much like you.'' At the girl's surprised look he added. ''For some reason you stood by me, No-Good Tora, who didn't have any supporters. I've been thinking about this for a while actually. I noticed by the look in your eyes that you've experienced cruelty and injustice. That's why I sense your desire to help the weak. Not to mention the strength to stand up to the hecklers, to Matushita and Kuramoto-kun. You're no ordinary high schooler, there's no doubt in my mind. Would you care to...talk about it?''
"T-that's...'' Namine faltered. She didn't mind, Yoshida was one of those she knew she could trust with the truth. It was just that this was coming out of left field. ''...you've been pretty upfront with me-so yeah...''
"Ah, apologies, it seems I've made you uncomfortable. I've always lacked restraint in these situations.'' Yoshida admitted. ''But I would appreciate getting to know you better after all you've done. For now, I'll at least make good use of Matsushita's help setting up my next speech. I feel like I'll be able to fully express my beliefs if you're there with me. We can discuss this then.''
"Right.''
Makoto smiled to herself as she finished reading the last of her friends' texts. After coming clean to them about yesterday, she was touched to see them all express their concerns for her feelings. Though some, like Morgana, Haru and Takuto took time to scold her for forcing herself even when the day was difficult on her-she knew it was just proof of how they cared.
As she approached Leblanc, the girl found Namine, Morgana and Futaba near the entrance, focused on the first's phone. Futaba was snickering while Morgana seemed to be sighing in exasperation. What was going on?
"Didn't he learn from the last time?'' The cat turned as he heard Makoto approaching. ''Oh, hey!'' Both Futaba and Namine looked over at her and smiled. ''Get this-apparently, Ryuji and a couple of the track team members want to try the Big Bang challenge. For some reason, they're trying to drag Mishima into it.''
"...I see Ryuji's track record of 'great' ideas continues.'' Makoto stated flatly.
Morgana snorted while the other girls laughed ''I know, right?''
Shaking her head, Namine focused on the group chat she had with Ryuji and Mishima.
HN: For the record, Mishima-kun, I see I've got little chance to convince you. So all I'm going to say is remember Hawaii?
Futaba looked confused at this but Mishima responded after a few moments...
MY: Oh, gods-you're right...forget it, I'm not doing this.
SR: Aw come on, man!
MY: It's definitely not worth it.
HN: Finally, some sense. Is this some sort of male pride thing again, Ryuji? Do I need to remind you of your last Big Bang Challenge?
SR: Oi, that's not...that was a fluke!
HN: If you say so. Anyway, we're going to the arcade. If you guys are interested, you can meet us there.
The boys seemed to decide that it would be for the best to just not take the challenge for they found the two waiting near the entrance. Futaba couldn't help shrinking closer to Namine and Makoto at the amount of people present. The brunette noticed Mishima's gaze ''Oh, ah-the thing about Futaba...''
"It's okay, I heard from Sakamoto. You're trying to get her over that phobia, that's real nice of you.''
"Come on, Futaba. You'll like it here. I think you'd know a couple of the games they have.'' Ryuji stated, patting her shoulder. ''I'm pretty sure they've got at least a couple of the classics here.''
Futaba perked up ''Ooh, really? Show me!''
Futaba was soon immersed in the games, her nerves long forgotten. Mishima was surprised to hear that she was an avid gamer but moreso to learn that she was Alibaba. Her friends were thrown for a loop when it turned out that she used the name for a few game tournaments in different places.
"You don't see anything wrong with that?'' Morgana demanded. ''I mean, come on-Alibaba's well...you know...''
"Psh, you worry too much, kitty.'' Futaba waved a dismissive hand as the boys began to compete on one of the fighting games. ''Who was going to suspect a gamer doing what I did back then? Besides, I was careful to cover my tracks. It was back when I using my first name so I figured it was safe.''
"Well, I guess that makes sense...'' Both were distracted when Mishima beat Ryuji, letting out a cheer.
"You really are good, Mishima-kun. Ryuji never stood a chance.'' Makoto noted.
"Hehe, thanks. I'm actually surprised with you, Miss Prez. You were really kicking butt back there-I didn't think you'd be the type to get into games.''
"Just goes to show, huh? She's full of surprises.'' Ryuji pointed out.
That was something Mishima could agree with ''No kidding. Soo, anyone got a suggestion on what to try next?''
How about that racing game at the corner? The one with all those neat rides on the screen!'' Futaba pointed it out.
"Well, let's go then.'' Namine returned.
Once they arrived, Futaba took the first turn and Makoto went next. Ryuji looked at the girl with a grin as Mishima took his turn. ''Figures you'd go for a motorcycle...''
"You sure seem to like them. Ever consider buying one before?'' Morgana wanted to know.
He blinked when both Makoto and Namine appeared incredulous at this. The first then explained her reason ''Morgana, have you met my sister?''
The feline could easily imagine how well such a suggestion would fly with the stern prosecutor. ''...Point taken.''
"Hey, what's going on over there?''
They followed Futaba's line of sight to find her watching a crowd gather around a game called Gun About. Two people were playing against each other, one was a young boy with dark hair and eyes, with a red hat. The other appeared to be somewhat older, almost around the group's own ages.
The boy was winning easily...and they could hear whispers about this. Supposedly, this was a usual occurrence and most of them had never ever seen the boy lose.
"Wait, he never lost? That can't be right...'' Morgana trailed off.
"I think that might be the King!'' Futaba exclaimed, making them look at her curiously. ''I heard of this one guy who's crazy good at Gun About. He's good with plenty of games but he always dominated tournaments with that game. Let's go see!''
As it turned out, she was right about him. The apparent 'King' of Gun About was called Oda Shinya and he was a regular here. Not many challenged him nowadays, knowing his reputation. But despite his victory, he didn't seem to care much.
There were a few present who tried to get him to face them (like Mishima) but he easily turned them down and walked away.
"He's kinda cold...'' Futaba noted.
"And rude as well-there's no need to talk to people like that.'' Makoto added with a disapproving expression.
Morgana blinked ''He looks kind of fed-up...wonder what's up with that.''
"Yeah...'' Namine glanced at the young boy's retreating figure. ''...well, come on, let's keep going.''
As they were about to leave...
That was some good fun!'' Ryuji stated.
"Better than stuffing your faces with meat until you drop, isn't it?'' Futaba chirped.
The boy crossed his arms ''You don't gotta say it like that...''
Makoto quirked a brow ''Isn't that what you basically do in those ridiculous challenges?''
Mishima snickered while Namine looked amused ''Sounds about right...'' He looked back for a moment. ''...before I really knew it, I got used to hanging out with friends again...''
"Come on, it's not that weird, right?'' Ryuji cocked his head.
"Yeah, we're all friends here.'' Namine added.
"I know...'' He gave them a grateful smile. ''...I was just thinking back to what it was like back when I was starting out in Shujin...and all what went down before that. It's weird to think that it's only been a few months when so much happened. I just wound up focusing on getting through, I never could've imagined things would wind up like this.''
I know just what you mean...life always has a way of surprising us. It's up to us to make the most of the opportunities that come our way. Look at us now, I'd say we're all miles ahead of where we'd been months ago.'' Makoto added.
Heh, I hear ya, Makoto. And things will just keep looking up from here on out.'' Ryuji declared confidently.
Namine smiled and nodded ''We'll make sure of that.''
Well, let's stop here.
I've been struggling with this chapter for a while. I must've re-wrote it at least three times. I couldn't really focus on writing for days now so I hope this was good.
To clear things up, back in Hawaii Mishima told Namine to help if it looked like he was dealing with another troublesome idea like what happened back there. Sorry, through all that happened during the change of heart, I realized I completely forgot about Okumura's treasure. But yeah, he had it on him all along. The team could've taken it if Circe and Pluto hadn't shown up when they did. With the time running short, all they could do was leave before the palace blew up.
But they did make Okumura see the error of his ways so the consequences are different here. He's just doing as he promised. He sees how much damage he caused so he's working on fixing things. You'll see more surrounding this subject and more stuff next chapter.
Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed it. Till next time!
Confidants:
Sakamoto Ryuji (Chariot Rank Max)
Morgana (Magician Rank 7)
Takamaki Ann (Lovers Rank Max)
Takemi Tae (Death Rank 9)
Okumura Haru (Empress Rank 6)
Igor (Aeon Rank 6)
Sakura Sojiro (Hierophant Rank 6)
Mishima Yuuki (Moon Rank 7)
Suzui Shiho (Temperance Rank Max)
Yoshida Toranosuke (Sun Rank 8)
Caroline and Justine (Strength Rank 6)
The Phantom Thieves (Fool Rank 6)
Kitagawa Yusuke (Emperor Rank 7)
Akechi Goro (Justice Rank 4)
Ohya Ichiko (Devil Rank 5)
Nijima Makoto (Priestess Rank 5)
Mifune Chihaya (Wheel of Fortune Rank 6)
Togo Hifumi (Star Rank 4)
Iwai Munehisa(Hanged Man Rank 3)
Sakura Futaba (Hermit Rank 3)
Nijima Sae (Judgement Rank 2)
Maruki Takuto (Councillor Rank 2)