Akane no Mai

by Kanius

A man from the world of Vein drops into a world of Thieves. He meets a pragmatic woman. She greets him with a calm smile. "My name is Togo Hifumi." Following the fateful encounter, a host of monsters arrive, disrupting the peace. The Thieves return to confront these entities outside their realm and ultimately cross paths with the Revenant man.

35. Welcome to Otaku Paradise

Chapter XIII: Welcome to Otaku Paradise

---

Sophia University (上智大学)/Chiyoda, Tokyo (千代田区, 東京)/March 7, 2019 (2019年3月7日) (Reality: March 7, 2021)/12:15 PM (JST)

It would've been just another leisure day in the Shogi club if Nakamura Miki showed up to challenge Hifumi to their long-awaited match. A large crowd gathered, club members and university students, to watch the contest between the Shogi champions.

Though for a highly anticipated match, the contest was anything but intense. Hifumi and Miki dueled in a quiet game. However, their dueling spirits burned within them, treating their game as a battle between kings.

"I'm quite impressed, Hifumi-san. We've matched each other's moves. You've been able to figure out my strategies as well as I've discerned yours."

Hifumi moved her next piece. "We both utilize tactics well. It's like I'm playing against myself." In contrast to her duel with Yumeko, Miki proved to be a more experienced Shogi player than the Compulsive Gambler.

"Perhaps but I have a few tricks up my sleeve," Miki coolly smiled, moving her one of her Gold Generals. "Now, what will you do?"

"Our game isn't over yet, Miki-san," the pragmatic woman passionately responded, sensing her competitive spirit being stirred by her competition. Each move performed by Miki had Hifumi guessing. Never had she been pushed this far. Not even Yumeko did this.

"Ah, yes and it won't be over until this game is decided," Miki calmly stated, moving her next piece. "So, what's your next move going to be, Hifumi-san?"

The remainder of their duel went on for another 15 minutes. As soon as he arrived, Skyler saw Hifumi playing against Miki.

"Skyler, you came just in time! Hifumi and Miki are having a hell of a match!" A male club member enthusiastically cried out, walking Skyler into the player's lounge.

When Skyler pushed through, he saw the duel had just ended. Hifumi and Miki had already moved their Kings into the promotion zone of their sides. Both players' Kings could not be checkmated and ended up with 24 points.

"Well, Hifumi-san. Looks like our match is a draw," Miki said, unfolding her arms and extending a congratulatory hand. "But, we had ourselves a fantastic duel." She and Hifumi shook hands firmly, their resolute eyes locked onto each other.

Hifumi replied with a polite smile. "Indeed we did, Miki-san. You almost had me a few times."

"Shall we do this again another time?"

"Whenever we're free."

"Thank you, Hifumi-san. One of these days, a winner will be decided between us on a grander stage and one queen between us will rule their kingdom."

With that, Hifumi and Miki exchanged polite bows and parted ways. The Shogi club enthusiasts and students were deeply in awe over the duel they witnessed. With the possibility of another duel between Hifumi and Miki on their minds, anticipation was on the spectators' minds.

As Hifumi approached Skyler, he walked her out of the club as they conversed about the duel.

"So, she was that good?"

"It was like I played against myself. However, we discerned each other's strategies."

"Man, I just know I'll never get on either of your levels."

Hifumi chuckled and lightly clapped his left cheek. "Stop. Don't doubt yourself and keep practicing. You have me as your instructor."

Skyler sardonically remarked. "Oh boy, more tutoring sessions with my girlfriend."

"Heheh," she giggled. "So, Miki-san has an intriguing personality. "During our duel, we could sense each other's dueling spirits. She said we'd have another match on a grander stage."

"As in a tournament or a show on TV?"

"I don't know but dueling her has invigorated my dueling spirit. I want to duel her again one day. A Jishogi is not good enough for me!" Hifumi passionately yelled out while pointing her finger to the ceiling and standing in a grandiose posture. She could imagine herself standing with a spotlight pouring over her.

Looking stupified at his girlfriend's dramatic pose, Skyler muttered. "Right, so how about lunch?"

"Oh, did I just…?" Hifumi blinked and returned to reality. She tried to hide the blush on her face, elicited from embarrassing herself. "Sorry, I was too into the moment."

"Nah, I know how passionate you can be when it comes to games."

"Right, so lunch. What did you have in mind?"

"Soba noodles? By the way, what's a Jishogi?"

"It's a Shogi term for a draw game. It doesn't happen often but I suppose it does when two equal opponents are pitted," Hifumi answered as they walked out.

---

Protein Lovers/Shibuya, Tokyo (渋谷区, 東京)/4:45 PM (JST)

Another day at the local gym meant more training for Ann, who pressed two light dumbbells overhead while Mina spotted her. Taking a deep breath, Ann lifted and let out a heavy exhale.

"Good. Now, down," Mina coached the model, who lowered her weights. "Up." She watched Ann's form and overhead pressing. "Ok, we're done here."

After placing down her weights, Ann drank a sip of water from her bottle.

"I like you've been putting in the work. You might not need me around to coach you anymore."

"Nah, I don't mind your company. I've gotten used to you with me," Ann replied with a pleasant smile. "And I don't want to interrupt Ren when he's working." She turned toward her husband, who was seen jogging on a treadmill. "I have to admit working out isn't as bad as I thought. I feel much more energetic!"

"And you've certainly gotten better in sparring matches with the others."

"Yeah, but I'm still far behind Ren, Makoto, Ryuji, Skyler, and some of the others."

"Hey, this isn't a race, Ann. Take things one step at a time."

Nodding, Ann stood up and stretched. "You're right. I'm looking too deep into things. I've got to accept my strengths and faults."

"Ready for some boxing?"

"Now if there's anything I've gotten better at, it's throwing hands. It's certainly helped with my whip throwing!" Ann said, clenching a hand into her left palm. "Ok, I'm going to give it my all!"

Looking over on the other side of the gym, Ren monitored Ann's training with Mina. He witnessed his wife throwing powerful blows into a punching bag.

"This has helped you a lot, Ann," Ren smiled proudly for her. "Just hope you could go easy with your whip lashes during training." He shuddered, reflecting on all of the painful and precise strikes Panther would now utilize with her fiery whip strikes.

---

Skyler and Hifumi's Apartment/Hamamatsuchō (浜松町)/Minato, Tokyo (港区, 東京)/8:30 PM (JST)

After dinner, Skyler and Hifumi spent the rest of their evening in the living room watching a romantic movie. As the film ended, both received group chat messages from the other Thieves and Revenants. Upon entering the group chat, the couple's profile pictures popped up on the screen next to their written texts.

Hifumi: Good evening. Is everyone ok?
Skyler: We just got done watching a movie. How about you all?
Makoto: Work. And lots of work.
Haru: Yes, it was quite a busy day at Okumura Café but I am not complaining.
Mia: Hey, Ren. Ann. Got any advice on what kind of sushi Morgana likes?
Ann: Anything as long as it has fish! :D
Ren: He's not too picky.
Mia: Thanks. Though, I'm still not used to him calling me 'Lady Mia'.
Ann: Don't worry. It'll stick to you. He has a thing for us blonde ladies. ^^
Yakumo: Morgana sure has adjusted to living in your palace, Mia.
Louis: Speaking of cats, how is Emily doing, Yakumo?
Yakumo: Taking a cat nap now.
Futaba: Wow, we're throwin' cat puns up in this chat? Yo, that's something else. Want me to post some cat memes to liven up this group chat?
Yusuke: I still do not understand the meaning behind cat memes. Perhaps if I could create a painting based on our feline friends?
Eva: Why not use Morgana as a reference?
Yusuke: Hmm, perhaps.
Ryuji: Dudes, enough of the cat talk. Let's talk about AnimeJapan. Who's pumped for it?!
Skyler: You know I'm in. Hifumi and I are excited about it.
Hifumi: Might I suggest we don't tell each other's cosplay for the element of surprise?
Makoto: Good idea, Hifumi. It'll keep us guessing.
Sumire: Good evening, everyone. Sorry, I was delayed! ^^;
Ann: You're good, Sumire! We were just talking about cats and AnimeJapan!
Sumire: I'm excited about it. Eugene will be coming, too.
Rin: Sumire invited me to come, too. So, if I go, Davis and Coco will have to mind the place without me for a day.
Jack: Have you asked them?
Sumire: Yep, it's all good! :D
Futaba: AnimeJapan is gonna be so fun! Can't wait to buy some more figurines and play some games!
Ryuji: Hell yeah, and all the freakin' cosplays! It's gonna be a blast!
Yusuke: I assume we have all bought our passes?

Everyone in the chatroom replied with thumbs up and text smiles.

Haru: That's good. We don't want anyone to miss out.
Yakumo: Wait, aren't Yumeko, Ryōta, and Mary going, too?
Hifumi: The last time I checked in with them, yes.
Makoto: I can also presume the Advent Eight are going, too?
Louis: We'll have to wait and see.
Sumire: And we still don't know if Akechi is coming either.
Ren: He'll find a way one way or another, Sumire.
Skyler: Anastasia and Nadia said they'll be coming with us.
Ryuji: Hey, dude those two elves got some huge knockers on them. Like damn, man.
Ann: Oooo, I'm going to tell Miyako you've been leering at some elf ladies!
Ryuji: HEY! NO! DON'T!
Mia: Mind if I call her myself? :P
Ryuji: NOT FUNNY!
Eva: It's always nice to see some of us liven up the chat.
Ren: And how's your investigation coming along, Makoto?
Makoto: Not so good. I've been trying to pull up any files on that Akihabara incident but still nothing. There's no background on this Consortium.
Skyler: Let us know if you find anything.
Makoto: Of course.
Mia: Have you asked your officer friends Tori and Hiroshi to help?
Makoto: No, I think I can handle this myself. If I need the extra help, I'll turn to them.
Yusuke: It's hard to believe that our ally network has grown significantly since the Phantom Thieves have surfaced.
Skyler: Dealing with the Yami Matter and these Vamkyries will do that to you.
Ann: Those Vamkyries absolutely freak me the hell out!
Futaba: Hehe, no need to fear. We got vamps on our side to fight back against these Valkyrie vamps!
Rin: Heh, thanks a lot, Futaba.
Louis: Just remember that we're not like the traditional vampires, and we only became Revenants due to Io and the Weeping Tree's influence. Who knows if we'll even stay this way once we vanquish the Yami Matter?
Skyler: Time will tell but for now we'll need to cope with our Revenant powers and suppress our thirst.
Louis: Speaking of thirst, Karen is working on something for us, Skyler.
Skyler: Ah, that's good news.
Hifumi: Well, everyone. It's good to hear from all of you but it's time for Skyler and me to get some sleep.
Makoto: Alright then. Yeah, I need to go bathe.
Haru: And I'll be busy massaging Mako-chan's shoulders and back! ^^
Louis: Is there room for one more, you two?
Haru: Sure!
Makoto: Maybe another night, Louis.
Ryuji: Yo, is there something going on between you three?

Makoto and Haru have both left the chat.

Ryuji: I guess that's a yes, Louis?
Louis: I cannot confirm nor deny, haha.
Sumire: Good night, everyone!
Hifumi: Take care.

After leaving the group chat, Hifumi and Skyler leaned on each other for comfort.

"Which one of us showers first?"

Hifumi kissed his cheek and held his hand. "Why not both of us?"

"I'm down for that."

---

Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department (警視庁)/Kasumigaseki (霞が関)/Chiyoda, Japan (千代田区, 東京)/March 9, 2019 (2019年3月9日) (Reality: March 9, 2021)/8:30 AM (JST)

Having communicated back and forth, Makoto and Sae have constantly tried updating leads about The Consortium's possible existence. Unfortunately, neither Niijima sister had any luck. Any possible hints of The Consortium's existence never turned up on their search engines. Sae has even tried utilizing her influence as a prosecutor to find anything related to this secret organization.

"Still nothing," Makoto gritted under her breath. Her eyes scanned the search engine of her work laptop's web browser. "Shit. It's like this Consortium doesn't even exist. The only thing related that generally comes up is an organization for top-tier students, MBA programs, and corporation partnerships, but I've already run a check on that organizational network! Still nothing." She closed her laptop and massaged her side temples a few times. "Looks like we have our work cut out for us, sis."

Just then, a cup of coffee was placed in front of her without her notice. She quickly snapped out of her distressed trance and turned around. It was the male rookie officer who she used to train.

"Oh, for me?"

"Just thought you could use some. You seem so high-strung lately and so focused on your web browser, Ms. Niijima."

Makoto stared at her coffee and smelt it. "Did you put cream in it?"

"Yes."

She smiled and grabbed the cup. "You shouldn't have." She sipped it and watched him leave. "By the way, you don't have to call me Ms. Niijima."

The rookie officer faced her, modestly enthused he was acknowledged by her. "Then, what should I call you?"

"Makoto, or just Mako-san is just fine."

"Oh, if you insist, Mako-san. By the way, are you still going to AnimeJapan?"

"Yes, I'm going with my friends. Why ask?"

"Well, I just thought you'd know two of our fellow officers are going to be there."

Hearing this, Makoto coyly smirked. "Let me guess, it's those officers I've still yet to see and high-strung have the same names as anime characters?"

"You mean those two you kept bringing up and claimed weren't real? I remember you asked me about them, but their names escape me."

"Tsunemori Akane and Asada Shino. Don't you find it weird these two 'phantom' officers sharing those names never showed up here to work?"

He nodded dismissively. "I wouldn't know. In any case, no, those aren't the two officers I was referring to."

Makoto openly chuckled. "I know, I was just playing with you. I know Tori and Hiroshi are going. Tori even asked me about my cosplay."

"I see."

"What day are these two going?"

"March 24th."

Makoto smirked. "The same day I'll be going. I'll give them a call when the event draws near."

"I'm sure you'll have fun. Anyway, please don't get too overly stressed over work, Mako-san. Us officers have to look out for each other's well-being."

"Much appreciated. Thank you."

Just as he turned, he bumped into Takarada Minami, who was dressed in full police uniform. Minami got right in his face and sneered, slightly scaring him back.

"Oh, I'm sorry, Minami-san! I wasn't looking!"

Minami replied with a snarky grin. "Yeah, you should be sorry. You still haven't grown a spine around women." She walked by him and turned in Makoto's direction. She and Makoto's eyes met. "And how is my favorite senpai doing? I heard you've been web browsing on the job."

Setting down her coffee cup, Makoto's brow ridges furrowed. "What of it? It's research for work. Are you going to rat me out for not completing my office duties?"

"Oh, I'd never dare pull something like that behind your back, Makoto-senpai. I respect my favorite senpai!" Minami said in the most unconvincing genuine tone Makoto has ever heard. "We're not in high school anymore. Besides, I have my own work I have to get done. Why would I get wrapped up in anyone's business? It'd be too much work for me!" She said, pulling up a chair and sitting next to Makoto. "Right, Makoto-senpai?"

Makoto casually sipped her coffee and responded. "Then, why don't you get back to work?"

"You're so right. I should be! By the way, I can't help but hear you have plans for a convention. Well, you and your friends have fun with that! And be sure to tell Tori I said hi, too!" Minami chuckled as she got up from her chair and waved her off. "Later until lunchtime, Makoto-senpai."

As she watched Minami leave, Makoto muttered sardonically. "Yeah, like I'd ever hang out with you. We don't even have the same lunch break." She noticed the male officer approaching her again.

"There's something I don't like about her, Mako-san."

"Yeah, same here. She rubs me the wrong way. We shouldn't let her get under our skins," Makoto suggested as she turned around and opened up a file. "You better get to work or the boss will find you off track again."

"Right! You take care, Mako-san."

As he walked off and for good this time, Makoto eyed the file with the words:

[Akihabara Incident - February 16, 2019]

She opened it. The file revealed distorted photos taken by security cameras showing the four Cryptids fighting the Phantom Thieves, the Vein Remnants, and Spiritual Gamblers. Another photo showed Stronghold, Psyclone, Valkyria, and Norse-knight assisting the groups against the Vamkyries and Yaban. Then, another picture showed a distorted image of the vans and the men in riot gear. She meticulously scanned the photos trying to piece together the connection between the Cryptids and the riot gear-wearing men.

She tapped her finger on her desk, studying the photographs.

"This is the best we have. There's not even video footage of these mystery men. It's like something's being covered up, but what? Who or what the hell is The Consortium?"

"Hey! Whatcha lookin' at!" A voice belonging to Tori startled Makoto, who nearly jumped out of her seat.

As she whipped around, Makoto gave her a stern look. "Tori, keep it down!"

Tori lowered her tone and pointed to the image with her and Norse-knight. "Hey, it's me. Man, don't I look like a total badass?"

"Yeah, you do. Listen, Minami just came up and tried to snoop on me. Luckily she hasn't seen these pictures."

"Minami, huh? Want me to deal with her?" Tori asked while popping her knuckles.

"No, listen. Let's keep our hero business to ourselves."

"Of course, our hero identities have to be kept a secret!"

Sighing with relief, Makoto smiled. "Thanks, Tori."

"Find anything yet on the Consortium?"

"Unfortunately, no luck."

Tori patted Makoto's shoulder. "If you need anything, Hiroshi and I are around since we're in the know, too."

"Thanks, I will."

"And don't worry about Minami. If she crosses a line, I'll set her straight."

"Thanks, Tori."

"And we're down for AnimeJapan?"

Makoto gave a thumbs up. "We're all in."

---

Yaksha Weaponries (ヤクシャの武器)/Shibuya, Tokyo (渋谷区, 東京)/March 13, 2019 (2019年3月13日) (Reality: March 13, 2021)/4:30 PM (JST)

"Wait, you want us to do what?!" Rin shouted as Louis and Yakumo, both standing in front of the counter, invited her and the others to the AnimeJapan event.

"Yeah, you guys could afford to close shop for a day to hang with us, right?" Louis asked the shop owner.

"I know I said I'd go but I don't know if Davis and Coco are willing to go. That means we'd have to close and we do have a business to run here. We'd be losing to Iwai for a day."

Yakumo kindly reminded her. "Um, but you're strictly a weapons shop owner. Iwai sells more than just weapons at his pawn place."

"Yeah, while we may be cool, I still consider him competition to our business."

"But, it'd be fun if we all got together and hung out. Please ask them to come?" Mia tried persuading Rin.

Rin found herself making a tough decision. Do they close shop for a day to spend time with Louis and the others at AnimeJapan or risk losing her business?

"Ugh, don't make this hard on yourself, Rin," Coco groaned as she emerged from the back with Davis. "We've been hearing y'all yammering."

"Well, what should I do then?" Rin turned to the shop merchants.

"Didn't you already decide, Rin? Then if so, would you like us to come, too?" Davis presented her with the obvious options.

"Personally, it'd be nice to get out and have some fun," Coco said, stretching her arms out behind her. She cringed slightly when she heard a pop in her back shoulders.

Rin placed a hand on her forehead and mulled over her choices. "Oh, shoot. You're not making this any easier! I'd love for all of us to go!"

"Do what your heart tells you, Rin," Skyler said.

"You'll come with us? Please?" Io pleaded.

With that, all it took was Io's kind plea to entice Coco and Davis to make their final decision.

"Looks like we're in, sweetie," Coco chimed in, poking Rin's right cheek.

"Ow, yeah! You two aren't going to regret this! We just can't turn down someone giving us those cute puppy eyes!"

Mia turned to Io and raised a brow. "So, where did you learn to pick up that from?"

Hifumi giggled as she patted Io's head. "She watches a lot of YouTube. Her favorites are the cute animals she sees online, especially the dogs and cats. She learns everything she sees."

Skyler chuckled. "Oh yeah, there was an instance when she howled at the TV while we were watching Zootopia."

"Did it happen when those wolves appeared?" Mia asked.

"Yes, that's right! It was adorable. We even recorded it with my phone!" Hifumi answered.

Mia fixed a deadpan glare at Io. "Uh-huh. You're becoming slick, aren't you?"

Io rolled her eyes to the side and smirked. "Perhaps."

"Alright, looks like we're all for March 24th," Louis informed everyone in the shop.

"Are you two going to dress up?" Rin asked Coco.

"Duh. Of course, we are. We wouldn't go if we couldn't dress up," Coco slyly smirked and postured sensually. "Besides, with a smoking hot body like mine, it's begging to be in cosplay. Davis, we need to find ourselves some good cosplay."

"We can look up references online."

"Great! Rin, you're going to dress up, too?"

Rin eagerly nodded. "Yeah, of course, I am!"

"And we all have our cosplays ready, or have an inkling of who we want to dress like?" Skyler asked the other Revenants.

"Indeed," Yakumo nodded. "Emily and I picked our cosplays out. She's helping to make ours."

"My brother and I have ours almost done," Mia added.

"Mine should be coming into the mail soon," Louis replied.

"That's good. Hifumi has been hard at work with ours," Skyler said. "And if anyone's looking for some last-minute adjustments to their cosplay, don't hesitate to ask Hifumi."

"Hifumi's making mine, too. It's coming out very well," Io said. "Will a lot of people take pictures of me, Hifumi?"

"We'll see when the day comes, Io, but I imagine they'll love yours."

Io's golden eyes gleamed with genuine happiness. "Then, I cannot wait."

"I think you speak for all of us, Io," Louis chuckled over the Persona Vein's enthusiastic spirit toward her first anime convention appearance.

"And we'll have a lot of fun, won't we, Skyler?" Hifumi turned to her Revenant boyfriend, who smiled in response.

"Let's make it a day we can remember."

---

Café Leblanc (純喫茶ルブラン)/Yongen-Jaya, Tokyo (四軒茶屋, 東京)/March 17, 2019 (2019年3月17日) (Reality: March 17, 2021)/6:30 PM (JST)

"So, who's ready for AnimeJapan, y'all?!" Ryuji exuberantly yelled out, doing his damned best to get his friends hyped.

"It's seven days from now, Ryuji. We know it's coming," Haru replied, seen sitting next to Makoto in a booth.

Morgana sarcastically chimed in. "Getting all worked up and probably still hasn't found his cosplay."

"Hey, I found my cosplay, cat! I even had Miyako pick it out for me. You're all gonna like what I'm dressing up as."

"Have the rest of you picked out your cosplay for the event?" Ann queried to the others.

"Yep. Mine's already shipped. I should have it in my mailbox tomorrow," Futaba casually smirked.

"So, what time do you want to meet?" Ren asked the Thieves.

Yusuke asked "How about 10:00 AM? That shouldn't be too early for anyone?"

Makoto nodded. "That's perfect. I also made sure to take off from work that day and the next in case we want to come back."

Overhearing the conversation, the old man chuckled hard. "You kids have a ton of energy to endure those crowds. I'm way too old to be caught up at those convention scenes. There's no way I'd keep up."

"Hey, don't knock it until you try it," Futaba playfully quipped to her father figure.

"You're right, but go have fun for me," Sojiro replied as he brought out coffee for his guests. "Now who asked for some of my latest Leblanc special coffee?"

"Right here, pops," Ryuji raised his hand.

"Us over here, too," Haru responded more politely than Ryuji.

Makoto picked up the cups for herself and Haru.

Ren sipped his coffee and licked his chops. "Mmm, your taste still hasn't changed much."

Sojiro almost scoffed. "I should take that as a compliment? What do you think I need to improve on?"

Ren replied and gave an ironic smile. "Nothing. It's fine just like it's always been."

"Feh, smart-alec, if anything you haven't changed."

"That's not true, because he's a married man, working a good job, and lives with me," Ann added after finishing her coffee cup.

"That's true. I'm glad you're both happy. You're all doing pretty well for yourselves, aren't you?" Sojiro smiled proudly at the Phantom Thieves. "Except… try your hardest to be careful with what's been going on lately, especially after that Akihabara incident. You had me worried knowing you were all going to be out there."

"We're still here, Sojiro. That's what matters," Futaba reassured him with a pleasant grin before finishing her cup.

"And here's to a safe trip to AnimeJapan, guys!" Ryuji raised his coffee cup.

"I can attest to that," Yusuke nodded in approval.

"I'll eat that," Morgana added, lapping up a bowl of furry Sojiro made for him.

"So, let's be sure to tell Skyler, Hifumi, and the others what time we should meet," Makoto suggested. "Perhaps even a location where we can convene before we head out to the convention."

Ren nodded. "Yeah, how about we all meet here first? I'd say 8:30 so we can eat here and head on over there."

"Sounds like a plan, dude. If we can beat the crowds, we could get there by 10:00ish" Ryuji said. "So, are we all in?"

The Thieves raised their coffee cups and cheered in unison. "Yeah!"

---

AnimeJapan 2019 (アニメジャパン2019)/Tokyo Big Sight (東京ビッグサイト)/Kōtō, Tokyo (江東区, 東京)/March 24, 2019 (2019年3月24日) (Reality: March 24, 2021)/10:00 AM (JST)

The big convention day was here. Although it was the second day of the March 23rd to 26th event, the 24th was the day the Thieves, Revenants, and Gamblers decided on being their big group meet-up. After having breakfast at Café Leblanc, the Phantom Thieves, the Revenants, and the Spiritual Gambler trio (Yumeko, Mary, and Ryōta) met with the remaining Gamblers (Midari and Itsuki), Revenants (Rin, Davis, and Coco), and the Elven princesses.

The group arrived near the front section of the Tokyo Big Sight venue, the very location AnimeJapan is being hosted.

Needless to say, they were shocked by the unbelievably high number of attendees present. And this was merely outside the actual exhibition area. Based on their glimpses, they saw a variety of interesting and unique cosplay based on current and retro otaku-based entertainment. This year's AnimeJapan theme was ROCK (rock 'n roll).

A big red banner hung in full display over the entrance. Dozens of various anime characters decked in full rocker wardrobes, either holding electric guitars or microphones, filled the banner space.

In bold and filtered white letter font was the name of the convention:

(ANIMEJAPAN)

(-2019-)

"They went with the whole rock theme this year, huh?" Ryuji realized.

"Yep, but too bad we didn't think about cosplaying as rockstars," Futaba sighed. "Eh, not that it matters. What we're cosplaying as is good enough!"

As for the cosplays each Phantom Thief, Revenant, and Gambler wore, there was variety to be seen.

Ren dressed as Lelouch vi Britannia from Code Geass in his school uniform. Ann cosplayed as Alisa Ilinichina Amiella from God Eater. Skyler dressed as Shulk from Xenoblade Chronicles. Hifumi cosplayed as Yotsuyu goe Brutus from Final Fantasy XIV: Stormblood.

Makoto cosplayed as Tsunemori Akane from Psycho-Pass. Mia dressed as Illyasviel von Einzbern from Fate/stay night. Yakumo came as Terra from Kingdom Hearts. Louis cosplayed as Ikoma from Kōtetsujō no Kabaneri. Io cosplayed as Ayanami Rei from Neon Genesis Evangelion. Yumeko came as Niekawa Haruna from Durarara!

Ryuji cosplayed as Sun Wukong from RWBY. Miyako dressed as Tainaka Ritsu from K-On! Morgana came dressed like Jiji from Kiki's Delivery Service. Haru came as Violet Evergarden. Yusuke cosplayed as Yoko Kurama from Yu Yu Hakusho. Futaba cosplayed as Retsuko from Aggretsuko.

Jack cosplayed as D from Vampire Hunter D. Eva dressed as Ivy Valentine from Soul Calibur. Akechi came as Yagami Light from Death Note. Sumire and Eugene cosplayed as Aqua and Satō Kazuma from KonoSuba: God's Blessing on this Wonderful World!.

Mary dressed as Bloody Marie from Skullgirls. Ryōta cosplayed as Izumi Shinichi from Parasyte -the maxim-. Itsuki cosplayed as Webby Vanderquack from the Ducktales (2017 series). Midari dressed as Revy from Black Lagoon. Emily cosplayed as Coco Adel from RWBY.

Rin cosplayed as Marle from Chrono Trigger. Coco dressed as Cindy Aurum from Final Fantasy XV. Davis cosplayed as Dutch from Black Lagoon.

Anastasia and Nadia cosplayed as Tuka Luna Marceau and Yao Haa Dushi from Gate: Jieitai Kano Chi nite, Kaku Tatakaeri.

Shinya and his friends arrived a few minutes later after the main groups.

"Sorry, we're late, guys!" Shinya called out to Ren and the others. Shinya dressed as Shinn Asuka from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny.

"Sis, sorry, but our bus was delayed!" Nicola openly apologized. Nicola cosplayed as Yukine from Noragami.

Wearing a Pochama (Piplup) hoodie, Reiko giggled. "Check me out! Don't I look cute?" She looked over to her opposite; standing between her and Nicola was Li-Ming cosplayed as Honda Tohru from Fruits Basket.

"Yes, but are you as adorable looking as I am?" Li-Ming asked Reiko, showing off her cat and rat plushies.

"Personally, your cosplays are very cute," Nicola remarked, making Li-Ming's cheeks blush.

"Oh, so my cosplay is cute, too, man? C'mon, dude," Shinya snorted.

Nicola chortled, lifting his eyebrows and glancing at his friend. "Do you want me to say yes?"

"Shut up."

"Your cosplay is great, Shinya," Reiko complimented his costume.

"Heh, thanks, Reiko."

"Yeah! We're gonna have a blast!" Futaba pumped her fist up.

"Now, let's have ourselves a good time, Li-Ming?" Nicola said.

"Ok, sure," the Chinese girl complied.

Shinya snickered, itching the bridge of his nose. "Or, do you two need some alone time?"

Both Nicola and Li-Ming balked at Shinya's remark. "Um, what?!"

Reiko pinched Shinya's ear. "Be nice, Shinya."

"Ow, sorry."

"Ann!" Shiho called from a distance.

"Shiho! Over here!" Ann called back as Shiho arrived to meet with Ann and her friends.

Shiho, dressed as Kasumi from Dead or Alive, hugged Ann before turning to face Mia, who walked up to her.

"Hey, nice cosplay, sweetie," Mia complimented Shiho's costume.

"Yeah, same to you. I'd say you look cute," Shiho genuinely smiled.

"Oh, you think so? Thanks," Mia blushed, taking Shiho's complimentary remark.

"C'mon, guys! What are we doing dawdling?! We've got a whole day to ourselves! Let's indulge ourselves, eat, play a shit ton of games, and take pictures of some awesome cosplay!" Ryuji rallied his friends and their colleagues.

"Yeah, what he said!" Miyako joined in with her boyfriend.

Haru turned to Makoto. "Maybe we should divide into groups. What do you think?"

Nodding, Makoto replied earnestly. "That's a good idea. We can cover more ground and look for things we want to see."

Louis nudged between Makoto and Haru. "And you'll have me to accompany you, my lovely ladies." He said with a hand on his chin and left brow raised. This elicited a modest reaction from Haru but an annoyed glare from Makoto.

"Hey, so I haven't been to this event. Wanna help navigate me through this place?" Eugene asked, turning over to Sumire, who nodded accordingly.

"Sure, and you can relax. It looks overwhelming because of the crowds but once we get used to it, everything will be fine," Sumire replied, holding Eugene's hand.

"Is this your first time going to an overseas anime convention?" Jack asked Eugene.

"Somewhat. I've been to a smaller convention here but nowhere this capacity."

Eva smiled. "You'll find a lot of fun things to do here. You'll wonder what to and where to go first."

"Yes, this is quite a crowd. Anyway, I'm off to find Ren and the others. Sumire, you have fun with Eugene, ok?" Akechi waved her off as he headed over to greet Ren and the other Thieves.

"Speaking of KonoSuba, Sumire and Eugene are cosplaying two of their lead characters. Yes, Sumire truly looks the part as Aqua right down to the hair, which is no doubt a wig," Yusuke said, keenly observing the aforementioned having a conversation.

"I think those two look cute in their KonoSuba cosplay! KonoSuba is a hilarious show!" Ann commented.

They watched as Sumire and Eugene interacted with a big KonoSuba cosplay gathering. Sumire and Eugene went out of their way reenacting an Aqua and Kazuma scene.

"You're a stupid and useless goddess! The absolute worst ever!" Eugene screamed in Sumire's face, who gave her best Aqua impression ever. She responded with a funny and sad pouting face, which took Eugene by surprise.

"W-W-Why? That was mean! I'm not useless, Kazuma!" Sumire tearfully cried, deeply getting invested in her role as Eugene was left bewildered about what to do next.

"Uh, listen, Sumire. I think I might've overdone it," Eugene apologetically talked sense into Sumire.

"Oh really? But, I thought I played my part well," Sumire asked, quickly slipping out of her roleplay mode.

"Maybe we should just stick to taking group shots with the other KonoSuba cosplayers," Eugene whispered.

"Sure, I guess we could do that," nodded Sumire.

"KonoSuba is one of those acquired humor series. It was a light novel series before it became an anime," Ren stated.

Slightly intimidated by the crowd sizes, Io scanned the colorful variety of cosplays on display from people of all shapes and sizes. Being completely new to this situation, she wasn't sure how she was going to take it. However, Hifumi calmed Io's anxiety with a shoulder pat.

"Nervous?" Hifumi asked the Persona Vein.

"Just a little. There's so many people here! Will they like my costume?"

Skyler gave a hearty chuckle. "Like? Believe me, they're going to love your cosplay, Io."

"Hey, excuse me?" A random con-goer approached Hifumi, Skyler, and Io. "That's an awesome Ayanami Rei cosplay! May I take a pic of you?"

Upon hearing the con-goer's humble request, Io initially didn't know what to do. She glanced over to Hifumi and Skyler like a deer caught in the headlights. She's always had to ask permission as if they were her parents.

"Go on," Hifumi encouraged her.

Nodding, Io faced the con-goer and stood in a modest pose. The fan snapped four pictures with his high-tech camera. Io then received a business card from the con-goer, who was a personal photographer.

"Wow, how lucky you are, Io. That wasn't just some random fan. You had some professional take pictures of you," Skyler said, reading the business card. "Let's be sure to call him and see if we can order your pics. What do you think?"

"Yeah!" Io happily replied.

"I think you'll be getting a lot of attention, Io," Hifumi's smile broadened.

Having witnessed Io getting noticed, the others were flabbergasted to say the least.

"Aww, geez. Looks like I've got competition," Mia sighed.

"At this rate, she's going to get more pros taking her pics than us!" Mary griped.

"We've gotta up our cosplay game now!" Futaba declared.

"You guys aren't going to make this a competition, are y'all?" Ann queried, deeply concerned with how heated this could get.

"A little competition is always healthy. It makes for an exciting game," Yumeko snickered evilly, her red eyes creepily glowing much like the character she was cosplaying.

"We definitely need to hit up the Cosplay World area," Yakumo suggested.

"Yo, check this out, guys!" Ryuji pointed to a JoJo's Bizarre Adventure cosplay group showing off their postures. "Let's take a pic of these guys and ladies!"

"Oooh, I see Jonathan, Joseph, Jotaro, Josuke, Giorno, Jolyne, DIO… WOW! And they even have cosplayers posing as their Stands! Star Platinum, Crazy Diamond, Gold Experience!" Futaba cheered gleefully as she and Ryuji snapped photos of the JoJo cosplayers.

"Well, aren't you having fun, Futaba?" Yusuke chuckled over her otaku dreams coming to life. He then mentally reminded himself that there'll certainly be Phoenix Ranger Featherman R cosplayers for Futaba to fulfill her fangirl fantasies.

"So, how about we split up into those groups?" Louis asked Makoto and Haru.

Both ladies responded. "Yeah, let's." They dragged Louis away.

"Well? Shall we get moving?" Ren asked Ann.

"Yep, there's so much to do and see," the blonde model grabbed Ren's arm and walked with him.

"You all have fun. I'll stick by whenever you want to hang out," Akechi said as Jack and Eva walked by him. The ex-junior detective noticed Eva giving him the cold shoulder, eliciting a defeated sigh. "I can't win them all, I suppose."

"Ready to go, Eugene?" Sumire asked him as they headed off together.

"Hey, wait for me, you guys!" Rin called out as she followed Sumire and Eugene. "I hope you don't mind me, Davis, and Coco tagging along?"

"Sure, no problem," Sumire kindly replied as Rin went along with her and Eugene.

Skyler and Hifumi took pictures of a Neon Genesis Evangelion cosplay group that Io joined. Io got between Shinji and Asuka cosplayers. After finishing the group shot, the Evangelion cosplayers briefly chatted with Io, asked her a few inquiries about the series, and asked for contact info to join their cosplay group. Io appeared confused as she didn't have her own email address.

"Hey, easy, guys. She's a relative staying with us from overseas," Skyler tried to diffuse the situation. "Tell you what. I'll give you my contact info until she sets up her own."

After finishing her chat with the Evangelion cosplayers, Io hurried over to Hifumi and smiled.

"They really like my cosplay, Hifumi! They want me to be part of their group!"

Hifumi patted Io's head. "That's great to know. Maybe they'll be your fans or even friends."

"Really?"

"I think so."

Skyler walked back over to Hifumi and Io. "Just as long as some of the dudes don't start calling you my waifu, we're good. Or, I'll be knocking some heads."

Hifumi chuckled. "They seem like nice kids. And they're not all boys."

"Yeah, but boys like them some big and well-endowed chests on cute girls," Skyler whispered to Hifumi as both noted Io's voluptuous breasts. "See what I mean? Exhibit A."

"Yeah…" Hifumi muttered with caution.

"Hey, what are you trying to imply here?" Nadia scoffed, giving Skyler a menacing glare. "Some of us happen to be proud of our large breasts."

Anastasia giggled. "Yes, but what he's saying is that we don't want random strangers to touch us. We must have proper etiquette!"

Nadia nodded. "Yeah, good point. Then, allow me to join you and beat up any perverts that take advantage of Io, Skyler."

"I'm ready to see more cosplays," Io grabbed Skyler and Hifumi's hands, dragging them toward the entrance.

"Looks like we're going to be here all day," Skyler remarked.

"But, that's a good thing for Io," Hifumi giggled.

"Geez, look at all these humans in their cosplay. Won't be surprised to know we're really elven ladies, Anastasia," Nadia chortled, showing off her elven ears.

Anastasia concurred. "Yeah, I think undoing our concealment magic for our ears is ok for an event like this. We can easily pass off as cosplay characters."

"Alright! Where to start?!" Skyler scanned the crowded hallway as Hifumi navigated Io, Anastasia, and Nadia around the convention.

"Well, well, fancy seeing you all here," a voice belonging to a woman chimed in, catching the Thieves by surprise as they turned and saw Ichinose approach them. They saw Maruki and Sophia accompanied here.

"Ichinose!" Futaba cried out.

"Maruki, what a surprise!" Sumire added.

"It's great to see you two and Sophia here," Ann shared the group's enthusiasm to see them.

"Well meet, my friends!" Sophia greeted the Thieves and their friends.

"Nice cosplay you three have. I didn't think you two were the type to go to these events," Ren remarked, noting Maruki, Ichinose, and Sophia's choice of cosplay.

Maruki, Ichinose, and Sophia were dressed as Nishijima Daigo, Himekawa Maki, and Meicoomon from Digimon Adventure tri.

"Your cosplay is so cute, Sophia!" Haru complimented the android's costume.

"We came specifically for Sophia's sake. She learned you were going to this event hacking through your recent group chat," Maruki revealed.

"Sorry, we even advised Sophia not to pry into your personal affairs," Ichinose apologized.

Ren nodded. "You don't need to apologize. Sophia is one of us."

A bewildered Futaba scratched her head. "Huh, wow. No wonder I picked up on a discrepancy during that chat. I would've known if it was you, Sophia. To bypass my security wall, I'm impressed."

Sophia bowed. "I'm sorry."

Futaba chuckled. "Nah, no sweat. Next time just ask me to log you in."

"By the way, we didn't come alone," Ichinose smirked as two more guests walked up to the group.

"No way!" Makoto's mouth dropped. "Zenkichi and Akane-chan?!"

The biggest surprise was Zenkichi and Akane arriving out of town to reunite with the Phantom Thieves. Having grown into a teenager, Akane grew a few inches taller and her hair grew past her shoulders. They cosplayed as a father and daughter duo: Kaburagi T. Kotetsu and Kaede from Tiger & Bunny.

"Makoto! It's great to see you!" Akane shouted happily as she and Makoto embraced.

"Wow, you've really grown, Akane-chan!" Makoto hugged and looked at her with awe. "My god, you're almost as tall as me!"

"I'll say!" Haru was taken aback by Akane's growth into a teenager.

"Nice to finally meet you, Akane-chan! I'm Yoshizawa Sumire," the gymnast introduced herself to Zenkichi's daughter.

Akane bowed. "You, too! I heard about you from Ren and the others, Sumire."

"Hello, I'm Togo Hifumi. I'm also Ren's friend," the Shogi champion introduced herself to Akane.

"And I'm Skyler Jones," added the Revenant. He then introduced her to Io, Louis, Mia, Yakumo, Emily, Rin, Davis, and Coco.

"Don't forget us! Hello, Akane-chan! Any friend of Ren is our friend, too!" Yumeko merrily chimed in while also introducing Akane to Ryōta and Mary.

"She grew quickly these past few years. I've gotta say I still can't get over it," Zenkichi chuckled.

"Nice cosplay, old man," Ryuji snickered.

"Ah, c'mon. Besides, I'm only doing this for Akane because she wanted to come to this event."

"Is that why you came here? Just for this event?" Ann asked the officer.

"Well, not entirely. See, Akane and I are also here visiting Tokyo to meet old and new friends," Zenkichi added.

"Ah, yes. That's certainly a reason to travel from Kyoto," Yusuke stated.

"Whoa, you came all the way from Kyoto?!" Shinya was heard yelling out as he, Nicola, Reiko, and Li-Ming approached the group.

"Yeah, but the trip was worth it to see Makoto, Ren, and the others!" Akane ecstatically cried out.

"Man, Kyoto is far from here. So, who is she to you, guys?" Shinya asked Ren and the Thieves.

Ren properly introduced Akane to the four teens. "Guys, this is…"

Akane finished for him. "It's ok. I've got this. Hello, I'm Hasegawa Akane. I go to Kyoto Gakuen High. I also know Ren and his friends. We met a few years back while helping my dad on a major case."

"That's so cool! My name is Oda Shinya. I'm the boss of this crew! These are my friends. We all go to Roppongi High."

"Hello, I'm Nicola Karnstein."

"Hi, I'm Hanami Reiko! Let's have lots of fun together!"

"And I'm Li-Ming Xiuying. Nice to meet you, Akane."

Akane clapped her hands once. "This is great. Hey, dad. I'm going to hang with Shinya and his crew."

"Sure thing, honey. You kids have fun and be careful," Zenkichi nodded in approval.

"Yes! We're going to have loads of fun!" Akane said as she stuck with Shinya's group.

"Don't worry, Zenkichi. Those four are good kids," Makoto reassured him.

"They look well-mannered as long as those boys don't put the moves on my Akane."

"My brother Nicola is a well-mannered young man and he respects boundaries. Besides, he and Li-Ming are close," Mia interjected, lessening the policeman's concerns.

"And Shinya has Reiko. So, don't worry. Let them hang out and goof off!" Ann said.

"Sure if you guys say so. By the way, Makoto," Zenkichi leaned over in her ear and whispered. "Has 'you know who' showed up yet?"

"Akechi? Yeah…" Makoto muttered, scanning for the aforementioned as he seemingly vanished from sight. "But, he's not right here with us now. Zenkichi, can we try and not cause a scene here for Akane's sake?"

"Fair enough. However, after this event, I can't make any promises and if he crosses the line."

"Do what you must, but not now."

Nodding, Zenkichi shut his eyes and breathed deeply. "Fine."

"Dad? Is everything ok?" Akane noticed her father appearing tense.

"I'm fine. Let's enjoy ourselves. This is all for you," Zenkichi washed the tension from his face with a loving smile.

"And how are you holding up these days, Sumire?" Maruki asked her.

"Much better. Thank you for asking. Oh, by the way, this is my boyfriend Eugene. Eugene, this was my counselor Maruki Takuto."

"It's a pleasure to meet you. Thanks for guiding Sumire through her troubles," Eugene bowed and shook Maruki's hand.

"Now, I feel humble," Maruki chortled.

"Alright, everyone! Are we ready for some convention fun?!" Ichinose yelled out as nearly everyone else looked at her awkwardly.

"I'm also here if you need to order food from the local places and within the convention center. I will transfer and download my latest apps into your phones," Sophia said.

"Thanks a lot, Sophie!" Futaba added.

"She can do that?" Skyler blinked.

"Yes, that's impressive," Hifumi remarked as she, Sion, the Revenant, the Gambler Trio, and the Elven princesses' smartphones received Sophia's app.

"Incredible. Wow, she's not kidding! Yes, this will come in handy!" Louis stated, opening up Sophia's app.

"What's this for?" Io pointed to Sophia's app on Hifumi's phone.

"Just in case you need something to eat or drink," Hifumi replied.

As Io turned toward Sophia, the pale Revenant briefly interacted with the AI.

"Hello? I don't think we've met?" Sophia grew intrigued by Io's presence.

"I've seen you through Hifumi's eyes but we haven't met."

The AI was befuddled with Io's statement. "Seen me through Hifumi's eyes?"

"I'm Io. Nice to meet you."

Sophia nodded and smiled. "Likewise, I'm Sophia, or you can also call me Sophie."

Once Maruki, Ichinose, Zenkichi, Sophia, and Akane joined in, the Thieves and their friends divided into smaller groups and spread out over the Tokyo Big Sight to get the most out of the convention.

---

East Exhibition Hall 1/10:50 AM (JST)

As Mia and Shiho scoured Black Butler, Tokyo Ghoul, and Food Wars!: Shokugeki no Sōma merchandise, Shinya, Nicola, Reiko, and Li-Ming took pictures of an Owari no Seraph cosplay group.

"Hey, don't the Owari no Seraph remind you of us?" Shinya asked Nicola.

"Besides the fact, the two male leads have dark and blonde hair like us?" Nicola pointed out the obvious traits of them and the two Owari no Seraph characters.

"Maybe you two should've gone as Yuichirou and Mikaela from that show?" Reiko suggested. "Then, I can be Shinoa!"

Nicola turned to Li-Ming. "And who would you be?"

Li-Ming answered. "I guess Krul Tepes."

Shinya grinned. "Then, next time we'll go as the Owari no Seraph characters!"

Shinya's friends cheered in unison.

Meanwhile, Morgana sneakily slipped through the crowds and hopped on Mia's right shoulder, startling her.

"Whoa! Oh, it's only you, Morgana," Mia said, stroking the cat's chin. "Don't scare me like that, ok?"

"Hey, doesn't Morgana belong to Ren?" Shiho asked Mia.

"Yeah, but Morgana's been visiting me lately. He keeps me good company," Mia said as Morgana meowed in Shiho's presence.

Shiho patted Morgana's head. "Say, why don't we look for the Ghibli booth? Since Morgana's Jiji now."

Mia nodded. "That sounds great!"

Morgana thought. This is gonna be a long day.

---

Elsewhere in Exhibition Hall 1, Ryuji and Miyako scanned through booths showing off Touhou Project-related art, figurines, and merchandise. They passed by some Tenchi Muyo and Inuyasha cosplayers.

"Inuyasha and Sesshomaru! Let us take a pic with them!" Miyako pleaded to Ryuji, who took her to greet an Inuyasha, Kagome, Miroku, Sango, Sesshomaru, Rin, Naraku, and Kagura cosplayers doing a group shot for other con-goers.

After she and Ryuji got in a picture with the Inuyasha group, Miyako squealed happily, hugging each of the Inuyasha cosplayers.

"Thank you!" Miyako waved them off.

"Where to next?"

"Hey, look at that, Ryuji!" Miyako pointed to a cosplay that caught both their eyes.

"Yo, it's dueling time!" Ryuji called out as he and Miyako spotted a big Yu-Gi-Oh! cosplay group.

Similar to the JoJo cosplay group, this Yu-Gi-Oh! group consisted of all the main protagonists: Dark Yugi, Yuki Judai, Fudo Yusei, Tsukumo Yuma, Sakaki Yuya, and Fujiki Yusaku. The group also included a Kaiba Seto, a Black Magician, and a Black Magician Girl.

"Man, all the lead stars of the series! Even Kaiba and Yugi's two magicians!" Ryuji took out his phone and snapped pictures of the Yu-Gi-Oh! cosplay group.

"That's not all! There's someone with a bunch of weird-looking things," Miyako pointed Ryuji to a Manjoume Jun cosplayer holding a flag artwork of the character's Ojama cosplaying as the Ginyu Force.

The Ojama were depicted as the following Ginyu Force members based on colors: Ojama Black - Ginyu, Ojama Yellow - Recoome, Ojama Green - Guldo, Ojama Red - Jeice, and Ojama Blue - Burter.

"I grew up watching the GX series. I was too young to remember the original with Yugi and Kaiba, but I did catch reruns of that one," Ryuji said.

"And they change lead characters every few years, don't they?"

"Yep, they're on Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS now with Yusaku. But, GX was my thing!" Ryuji then called out to the Manjoume cosplayer and raised a finger into the air. "Over here! Manjoume Thunder!"

The Manjoume cosplayer pointed to the air and yelled out his phrase.

"Hell yeah!" Ryuji hollered as he asked to join the Yu-Gi-Oh! group for a photo-op. They honored him with a place to take a picture with them.

"One, two, three!" Miyako snapped two pictures with her and Ryuji's phones.

"Duel standby!" The group along with Ryuji shouted together.

---

East Exhibition Hall 4/11:45 AM (JST)

Yumeko, Mary, and Ryōta entered the Aniplex booth. They scoured through the booth's displays and offerings. The trio saw and admired some Fullmetal Alchemist figures, notably the Edward and Alphonse Elric ones. They even spotted some Black Rock Shooter and Bakemonogatari figurines.

"Look, it's Celty!" Yumeko called out as she hurried over to the Celty cosplayer for a Durarara! duo cosplay shoot. "Mary! Ryōta! Get some good pics of us!"

"Geez, hold still!" Mary growled as Yumeko kept moving. As Yumeko stood still, she posed next to the Celty cosplayer and held a fake knife.

"Yeah, that's a great shot, Yumeko!" Ryōta said, taking a few pics with his phone.

"Thank you for the pic, Celty. Do you have your head intact?" Yumeko asked the cosplayer.

"Hey, guys! Over here!" Itsuki called Yumeko, Mary, and Ryōta over. She showed them a The Promised Neverland poster promoting next year's second season release. "We gotta wait 'til next year for that second season. I can't wait that long."

Yumeko grinned devilishly. "Oh, it'll be worth it."

Mary scoffed. "What if it ends up sucking hard?"

Ryōta asked. "You think so, Mary?"

"It might be my hunch."

The Spiritual Gamblers turned as they spotted Midari and Davis getting together with other Black Lagoon cosplayers for a group shot. Sumire, Eugene, Rin, and Coco snapped pictures of the Black Lagoon group.

"Hey, let me join in!" Yumeko called out before being restrained by Mary.

"Your character isn't even in that show!"

"So? I want in!"

Ryōta chuckled. "C'mon, we're supposed to have fun, Mary."

Mary sighed. "She's being rude if she cuts into their group shot."

"Eh? Thinking of cutting into my photo?" Midari snarled at Yumeko.

"Maaaaaybeeee," Yumeko responded innocently and nonchalantly.

"Well, too bad. It's over. Where to now?" Midari asked.

Rin gasped and her eyes gleamed over at a Devil May Cry cosplay group. "Oh my god! Oh my god! It's Dante, Vergil, Nero, V, Trish, Lady, and Nico!" She readied her cell and headed over to get good pictures.

"A little too eager, aren't we?" Sumire giggled, watching her go crazy taking a ton of pictures.

"Everywhere I turn, there's incredible cosplay! They're even better than most of what I've seen in the States," Eugene added.

"Heh, I had no idea Ms. Shop Owner had a thing for pretty and hot half-demon dudes," Midari sardonically remarked.

Coco added with an irresistible chuckle. "She's still a fangirl for bishounen. You should see the yaoi doujinshi she has stashed away in her closet and under her bed. I've taken a look myself… and I've gotta admit, I can see why she likes them."

Davis grunted. "Good for you two, I guess."

Coco laughed. "Don't knock it until you try it, big guy."

"Sorry, but that's not my thing," Davis muttered. He paused as he noticed a Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt cosplay group. His dark cheeks noticeably got redder when he saw four gorgeous and hot models dressed as Panty, Stocking, Kneesocks, and Scanty. "Hey, you'll have to excuse me. I think I'll be right over here for a few." He feverishly whipped out his camera.

Coco rolled her eyes and laughed. "Oh boy, you go get 'em, big boy!"

Rin sighed at Davis' behavior. "And you say I don't have any self-control over my vices?"

Sumire shook her head. "He should be more reserved like Eugene here."

Eugene chuckled. "I'm glad you think so."

"So, where to now, guys?" Yumeko asked Mary, Ryōta, Itsuki, and Midari.

"There's pocky calling for my name," Itsuki said.

"Ok, we can afford a place to sit down," Ryōta said.

"Good, I need to recharge my phone battery," Mary added.

"Then, after we get some rest, we're off to explore!" Yumeko openly declared.

---

East Exhibition Hall 2/12:30 PM (JST)

Mia, Morgana, and Shiho entered the Ghibli booth. They were greeted by Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away cosplayers. Mia let the Ashitaka and San cosplayers hold Morgana for a group shot. Needless to say, Morgana didn't take kindly to the camera flashes going off, which dulled out his eyes.

As they came out of the booth, poor Morgana's eyes swirled around.

"Sorry, Morgana! I didn't know they'd be taking all those pictures of you, but I forgot pet cosplayers are pretty popular!" Mia tried apologizing to him.

"But, it's over now. You want to lie somewhere and get some rest?" Shiho asked, stroking the cat's chin.

I wanna claw all their eyes out! Morgana deviously thought.

---

East Exhibition Hall 3/1:05 PM (JST)

Ren and Ann were near the Sunrise booth. There they explored the Gundam section that showed the franchise's timeline history and the various Gundam IPs. There were also numerous figures and collectibles of mobile suits on display, including from Mobile Fighting Legend G-Gundam, Mobile Suit Gundam SEED, Mobile Suit Gundam 00, Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron Blooded Orphans, and the Universal Century-related stuff.

After taking pictures of the Gundam figures, Ren and Ann were faced with a Code Geass cosplay group.

"Mind taking a picture of me with them, Ann?"

"Oh, sure! Give your best Lelouch pose."

Ren joined the Code Geass cosplay group as they stood in front of a movie poster for Code Geass: Lelouch of the Re;surrection.

"Here we go, Ren! One, two, three!" Ann took a few pics of her husband and the cosplay group.

After finishing with the Code Geass group photo, the couple went over to take pics of a Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann group waving the Gurren Lagann flag. The group shouted 'Pierce the Heavens!' in unison.

"Yeah! Pierce the Heavens!" A voice cried out behind Ren and Ann.

Startled, the couple turned around and were surprised at who they ran into.

"Whoa, no way! Mishima?!" Ann exclaimed.

Mishima surprised the two Phantom Thieves. He cosplayed as Lee Jianlang from Digimon Tamers. To further accentuate his cosplay, Mishima was seen carrying a Terriermon plushie.

"Hey, guys. Sorry, I kinda got into the moment there with the Gurren Lagann group. Couldn't help myself," Mishima apologized.

"It's all good. So, you came alone?" Ren asked.

"Well… kinda. Unless you count this plushie as a person?" Mishima awkwardly chuckled as he held out his Terriermon plushie. "Look, it's not what it looks like. It's for my character cosplayer."

"No, we get it. Terriermon's a total cutie," Ann said, shaking Terriermon's hand.

"So, besides your obvious friend, anyone else with you?"

"Well, no, Ren. If you two want to spend time alone, it's ok with…"

Ren smirked and invited him. "You're more than welcome to join us. We can look for the others."

"Oh, thanks, Ren!"

Ann whispered to Ren. "Is it ok?"

"Just didn't want to let him feel left out."

"You're a good friend, Ren," she nodded in approval.

"C'mon, let's see if we can find the others," Ren beckoned Mishima as he and Ann walked off.

"Right! Hey, wait for me!" Mishima tried catching up as the crowds filled the area.

---

East Exhibition Hall 7/1:35 PM (JST)

"WOW!" Futaba's eyes lit up as she scanned the latest Phoenix Ranger Featherman R figurines in the Namco Bandai Booth. "I've gotta have at least one of these!"

"Then, indulge yourself, Futaba. This is your chance to get one or a couple," Yusuke encouraged his overly enthused otaku girlfriend.

"Since you said I can, then I will!" Futaba cried out. She then spent a couple of more minutes admiring all the other Super Sentai figures as Yusuke waited.

Futaba scanned the other figurines, consisting of Kamen Rider, One Piece, Dragon Ball, Naruto, Street Fighter, Kingdom Hearts, the various Final Fantasy series (VII, VIII, IX, X, XII, XIII, XV), Blazblue, and Vocaloid.

"So many to choose and only enough yen to buy with! Can't overspend! Must resist the temptation!" The otaku found herself in a financial dilemma. "But, I know for sure I'm getting at least one Phoenix Ranger Featherman R figure!"

Hearing his girlfriend having a crisis, Yusuke sighed and folded his arms.

"This may take all day."

"Excuse me, Yoko Kurama?" Someone approached Yusuke.

"Yes?" Yusuke turned as he saw three ladies dressed as Kurama, Hiei, and Botan. Three other guys were with them cosplaying as Urameshi Yusuke, Kuwabara Kazuma, and Koenma. "Oh my…"

"We'd love it if you got into a group shot with us," the Kurama cosplayer asked.

"Well, I…"

"Please say you will!" The Botan cosplayer begged.

Glancing over to Futaba still glancing over the figurine collection, Yusuke complied and joined in their group shot.

"Hey, Inari! I've picked out the figurines I want! I'm almost rea-!" Futaba paused mid-sentence and saw Yusuke posing with the Yu Yu Hakusho cosplayers. "Hey, why didn't you tell me you were getting in a group shot?! I would've had my camera ready!" She whipped out her digital camera and snapped pictures of Yusuke and the group. "Smile, Inari!"

"This happened all too sudden," Yusuke tried to excuse himself.

"Whatever, I'm just glad you found the cosplay group just for you! I never thought we'd find a Yu Yu Hakusho cosplayer to pair with ya, but a whole group?! Jackpot, baby!" Futaba yelled out while feverishly snapping more pictures.

After finishing their group shot, the cosplayers thanked Yusuke, who returned to Futaba.

"So, you got your figurines?"

"Yep, all picked out. Just need to pay for them."

"Then, we can move elsewhere. I want to go to the art galleries."

"Don't worry, Inari. We will. Heh, these pics are definitely keepers."

On their way out of the Bandai Namco booth, Yusuke and Futaba came across two cosplay groups: a Dragon Quest one and a Chrono Trigger one. One group consisted of all the Hero characters along with a Chrono cosplayer. Yusuke and Futaba took pictures with the Dragon Quest and Chrono Trigger cosplayers.

If that weren't enough, Futaba's dream came true. Her eyes gleamed like pearls at the sight of a Phoenix Ranger Featherman R cosplay group.

"OH MY GOD! INARI, I'M IN HEAVEN!" Futaba screamed at the top of her voice. "TAKE ALL THE PHOTOS!"

"All of the photos?"

"ALL OF THEM!"

As Futaba happily fangirled in front of the Featherman group, Yusuke snapped various shots of Futaba with the cosplayers.

"I hope this is all worth it to you, Futaba."

---

East Exhibition Hall 5/2:00 PM (JST)

Hifumi, Skyler, and Io looked around some Nintendo booths. Needless to say, Io enjoyed seeing the variety of Nintendo-related characters she's become familiar with during the past few months.

Io stood in the center and surrounded by Nintendo-related cosplayers. Among them were Mario, Link, Zelda, a few Fire Emblem characters, and Pokémon characters like Pikachu. A few other video game cosplayers, including Sonic the Hedgehog, Solid Snake, Mega Man, Simon Belmont, Kirby, Donkey Kong, Bowser, and others amassed to form a large group shot. Io found herself still centered with the Super Smash Bros. all-star cast.

"Hifumi, Skyler! Look at this! It's the characters from that Super Smash game I play out!" Io called out.

"Stay where you are, Io! We've got you in a good shot!" Hifumi said as she took a few good pics of Io with the Super Smash Bros. cosplayers.

"Hehe, maybe we should get in, too," Skyler asked someone to take his, Hifumi, and Io's picture. He grabbed Hifumi's hand and rushed her over to Io.

The con-goer took a few pics of the trio surrounded by the Super Smash Bros. cosplayers.

After getting back his phone, Skyler showed Io and Hifumi the pictures. Io swiped one pic after another, smiling genuinely.

"Do you like them, Io?" Skyler asked her.

"Yeah, I like them," Io scanned a pic of her hugging Yoshi and Kirby.

"Where else would you like to go next, Io?" Hifumi queried her.

"Hmm, oh! I want to play the games they have!"

Upon hearing this, Skyler turned to Hifumi. "Well, what do you think?"

"That sounds like fun. Let's go then!" Hifumi took Io to the gamers' area.

Elsewhere, Anastasia and Nadia blended in well with the human cosplayers. So much so that they met human women cosplaying as Rory Mercury and Lelei La Lelena. The four ladies posed together in a Gate: Jieitai Kano Chi nite, Kaku Tatakaeri-themed group shot.

"Wow, they thought our ears were handmade props," Nadia chuckled. "Oh, those naive girls."

Anastasia chuckled. "Now, now, be nice. They have no idea we're authentic elves."

"Anyway, we lost track of Io, Skyler, and Hifumi. Let's go and find them," Nadia said.

"Oho, I could get used to all this attention," Anastasia said as someone approached her and Nadia for a group photo.

---

On the other side of Exhibition Hall 5, Ryuji and Miyako finished taking pictures of some Overwatch and Mob Psycho 100 cosplayers. They eventually found Ren, Ann, Makoto, Haru, Louis, Futaba, Yusuke, and Mishima in the same area.

"Hey, are y'all having a bitchin' great time?!" Ryuji asked the other Thieves.

"Hell yeah! Look at all the figs I bought!" Futaba showed off a bag full of figures she bought.

"A ton of people asked to take pictures of the three of us," Haru said, referring to her, Makoto, and Louis granting photoshoots for con-goers.

"Oh, I didn't even see ya, Mishima! What's up, man?" Ryuji asked as he high-fived him. "Yo, is that Terriermon yours?"

"Well, my relative's…" Mishima was too modest to admit.

"C'mon, man. Don't feel bad if it's yours. We won't judge."

Mishima sighed as he kept the Terriermon plushie close to him. Before he could answer, the group noticed a pair of foreigners and heard them speaking a language resembling German dialect. The German couple dressed as Ouma Shu and Yuzuriha Inori from Guilty Crown.

"I can tell they're not from around here," Ann eyed the German couple.

"Well, duh, they're probably not from here, but what are they speaking in?" wondered Ryuji.

"German," Louis answered.

"Their cosplay choice is interesting considering that anime has not been spoken about for a couple of years," Yusuke noted.

As his ears caught a song playing in a speaker, Ryuji recognized it. It was David Whitaker's Ready to Go. "I remember that song from the show. Pretty kickass song, too."

Futaba smirked. "Hey, maybe that could've been a song for us Phantom Thieves."

"Hell yeah! That rapper's song would've been fitting us!" concurred Ryuji.

"I recall Guilty Crown being considered a Code Geass trainwreck rip-off," Ren remembered.

"Yeah, the best parts about that show were the animation, the music, and some of the character aesthetics," Futaba pointed the positives out of the aforementioned anime. "Inori's design especially is very eye-pleasing and no surprise there's still cosplays of her."

Ryuji scoffed. "Yeah, Inori's got a cute design, but I recall that 'Shoe' guy being a whiny and annoying bitch." He then elbowed Mishima's side. "Right, man? We're also better besties than 'Shoe's' friend, what was his name, 'Soda'?"

Mishima chuckled modestly. "I guess so, I don't remember that show much. Their names escape me."

Makoto added her personal views. "I do remember that show had a student president. I think her name was Arisa? Yeah, but I'm a better student council president. That Arisa girl went completely crazy."

Futaba snickered. "And I bet you were a better leader than the tinpot wannabe dictator Shu turned out to be!"

Louis snickered aloud. "Oh, you guys are giving me a laugh!"

"Oh yeah, there was that quirky hacker and navigator girl named Tsugumi. I do remember her. I kinda see myself through her," Futaba pointed out. "I kinda wish she was real so we can trade hacking secrets."

Yusuke sighed. "Well, it's too bad she isn't, Futaba."

"Don't ruin my dream, Inari!"

Makoto then reminded herself. Unless that character somehow becomes real, kinda like how 'Tsunemori Akane' and 'Asada Shino' apparently do at my workplace. Or any fictitious character for that matter!

"Mako-chan? Are you ok?" Haru waved her hand over Makoto's face.

"...huh? Yeah, sorry just zoned out there and got lost in the conversation."

"Yo, guys! Check it!" Ryuji garnered his friends' attention away as he got in between a 2B and 9S cosplayer pair.

"Oh cool, it's 2B and 9S from Nier: Automata!" Futaba took out her digital camera.

"There's also Kat from Gravity Daze!" Louis pointed to the Kat cosplayer. 'Mako-chan? Haru-chan? Do you mind?"

Haru nodded. "No, you go on."

Makoto shrugged. "Knock yourself out."

After taking a pic of the Kat cosplayer, Louis took another of her with 2B and 9S.

"Yo, Mishima, you gonna hang with us?" Ryuji asked him.

"If you don't mind?"

"Nah, man! You can hang with me and Miyako! We can leave our boy, Ren, and Ann alone!"

Ann rolled her eyes. "Gee, thanks, Ryuji."

"Catch y'all later!" Ryuji waved off with Miyako and Mishima following him.

"Hey, Ren. There's Rem and Ram cosplayers over there!" Ann pointed to the blue and pink-haired maid-garbed twins from Re:Zero - Starting Life in Another World. She and Ren went to take pictures of them.

"How about we look over the other side of this section, Mako-chan and Haru-chan?" Louis asked the lady Thieves as they headed past a One-Punch Man booth.

The One-Punch Man booth had a poster with Saitama, Genos, Tatsumaki, Boros, and Garou on it.

For a moment, it seemed Saitama's eyes shifted and his lips curved into a smirk. The hero gave his trademark intense smile before shifting back to his casual look.

As they explored the hall they were in, Ren and Ann spotted Cammy and Lance dressed as Ladybug and Cat Noir from Miraculous Ladybug respectively. Lance's badge name is labeled: Pharaoh Brooks. Cammy's badge name: Princess Eri.

"How's it going, you two?" Ann asked the couple. "I love your cosplay!"

"Thanks. We've been doing fine," Lance replied.

"Have you managed to control your new abilities, Cammy?" Ren asked her.

Nodding, Cammy answered. "Yes, I can handle it much better now. So, if there's any help you need, we'll be here. Since becoming Hōō, my spiritual senses have gotten stronger."

"The Advent Eight is always here when you need us," Lance said.

"We will continue to keep in touch. You two have fun for us!" Ann waved to them.

"Where to now, Ann?" Ren asked his wife, who was still giddy over meeting Lance and Cammy again.

"Oh, uh… wherever. There's still a lot to see."

---

On another side of Exhibition Hall 5, Yakumo and Emily encountered Marty and Andrea dressed as Nightwing and Batgirl from Young Justice respectively.

"Are you two having a great time here?" Yakumo asked the couple.

"Yeah, and we've even met a few overseas guests. So, we're not the only foreigners here," Marty replied.

"It definitely makes this convention a bigger deal," Andrea said.

"If you want to hang with us later, then you're more than welcome since we're on the same page," Emily said.

"We'd like to know more about what the Advent Eight has been up to lately," Yakumo added.

"Thanks, we will!" Marty and Andrea replied.

"Hey, Yakumo, let's go find Skyler and any of the others," Emily suggested.

"Sure, though they're probably caught up in all this madness. Where do we even begin to find them?" He scanned the dense crowds building up.

---

In the gaming area, numerous gamers from all walks of gaming life and experiences gathered to compete for casual fun and in tournaments. The popular fighting games being showcased included the latest known titles: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Dissidia Final Fantasy NT, Dragon Ball FighterZ, Soul Calibur VI, BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle, Street Fighter V: Arcade Edition, Tekken 7, My Hero Academia: One's Justice, Dead or Alive 6, Jump Force, Guilty Gear Xrd Rev 2, and Pokkén Tournament DX.

"We have several ongoing tournaments, ladies and gents! For those just arriving, find yourself a good seat and watch some of the most competitive players contest to see who'll take home the prize!" An announcer yelled out through a speaker.

Another speaker played the Super Smash Bros. Ultimate main theme, Lifelight, as con-goers filed into the fighting game tournament areas.

Ryuji, Miyako, and Mishima watched the Dragon Ball FighterZ tournament currently ongoing. They saw a player's name, SSJ4Takeru-Cage, pop up at the top of the ranking screens.

"Aw, dude, it's that guy. He's totally killing it in the FighterZ tournament again!" Ryuji said. "I'd hate to play that guy."

Mishima nodded. "Yeah. Me, too."

"Maybe if you practice enough, you can beat him, Ryuji," Miyako optimistically replied.

"Maybe if I trained for over 100 years? Nah, no chance in hell."

On another side of the gaming area, Skyler, Hifumi, and Io watched a Super Smash Bros. Ultimate tournament occur.

"And it's another win for KH-Nintendo!" An announcer hollered. "This player is straight-up running through the competition and is set to enter the semi-finals!"

Io cheered and clapped. "Yeah! Go! You can do it!"

Hifumi giggled. "Having fun, Io?"

Skyler casually smirked. "Maybe I should've entered so Io can cheer me on."

On another side of these two gaming tournaments, a third was being held for Dissidia NT. Futaba and Yusuke witnessed an unseen player from the Philippines named Nick-Ianime advancing to the quarter-finals.

"Wow, these international players are getting damned badass! Heh, maybe I need to step my game up?" Futaba chuckled.

"I'd much rather play Go. It's much more calm and relaxing," Yusuke sighed, which got him a finger poke to his cheek.

"Hey! This is a 'No Killjoy Zone', Inari!"

"Forgive me, Futaba."

"Ok, you're forgiven."

"Yo, check it out! Sophie's becoming popular with the con-goers!" Ryuji turned everyone toward Sophia, who was getting attention from attendees, gamers, and cosplayers alike. Maruki and Ichinose are seen standing on the sidelines while Sophia grabs all of the attention.

"Oh yeah! Go, Sophie!" Futaba cheered her on.

"That cat cosplay might be why she's getting the spotlight. Perhaps if we all wore catsuits," Yusuke considered.

"Nah, not happening, Inari."

Taking a bow, Sophia walked back over to Maruki and Ichinose.

"Having fun, Sophie?" Ichinose asked.

"Yes, now I want to play all of the games here."

"All of them? Hoo, but there's so many to count," Maruki scratched his head in bewilderment.

"It's fine. I'll scan each game and determine which are most suited for me," Sophia said.

"Yeah, I was going to say just do that," Ichinose muttered.

"I wonder if Ren and the others are having as much fun?" The AI deduced.

---

Exhibition Hall 7/2:50 PM (JST)

Along the way, Louis, Makoto, and Haru encountered cosplayers from various series; including Ouran High School Host Club, Death Note, High School DxD, The Seven Deadly Sins, Hunter x Hunter, Noragami, and .

As she scanned through the other guests, Makoto meticulously sighted Akechi talking to the Death Note cosplayers. Narrowing her gaze, Makoto maintained her distance from Akechi while not giving any reason to arouse suspicion of her. Or, worse if Zenkichi and Akechi somehow interacted, which would turn out horribly.

"Mako-chan, let's not cause a scene with these other people. We know Akechi and Sae have their problems, and as long as Akechi doesn't do anything foolish," Haru said.

"Let's just enjoy our time here," Louis suggested.

"Yeah, I know. Excuse me, you two. I need to get some water," Makoto left to find a refreshment area. As she grabbed a cup full of water, she turned the other way and saw Akechi was out of sight. "Where did he go now?"

"Hey, Makoto! Finally found ya!" Tori called out to her.

When Makoto turned, she saw Tori cosplaying as Tsujimoto Natsumi from You're Under Arrest. The other was Hiroshi cosplaying as Kimura Kōichi from Digimon Frontier.

"Hey, you two! I'm glad to see you're here," Makoto said.

"See? Told ya we wouldn't miss this!" Tori replied.

"We just came out of the Toei booth since she's a big Dragon Ball and Digimon fangirl," Hiroshi said.

Tori snorted to her work partner. "Hey, you're dressed like a Digimon character, y'know."

"I'm doing it just for you."

Makoto chuckled at their fun exchange. "Oh, you two never cease to make me laugh."

"Mako-chan!" Haru called out as she and Louis approached the three officers.

"Oh, hey, Haru and Louis!" Hiroshi called over to Makoto's closest companions.

"You two are looking well. And Haru is looking cute as ever," Tori smirked.

Haru chuckled modestly. "Oh, thank you."

"Yes, isn't Haru just adorable?" Louis said, patting her head.

"Nice cosplay, you two. Are you having fun?" Haru asked Makoto's officer friends.

"We are! Man, there's so much to do here!" Tori cried out.

"You could hang with us for a bit," Makoto offered.

"And we'd be rude not to accept," Hiroshi stated.

"Oh, you don't have to force yourselves," Louis reassured them.

"Nah, it's cool. Besides Makoto and I have a few things to talk about," Tori said.

"Sure," Makoto nodded as Tori and Hiroshi joined their group and explored the convention.

---

East Exhibition Hall 1/3:15 PM (JST)

Mia, Shiho, and Morgana ran into Samantha and Huey dressed as characters from Eden of the East. Huey cosplayed as Takizawa Akira. Samantha cosplayed as Morimi Saki.

Shiho finished taking the couple's pictures. Then, she tried her best to speak in English. "This is a great way for couples from overseas to spend their honeymoon."

"Don't feel bad. I've been doing my best learning your language," Samantha replied, trying to speak in Japanese.

"I've been getting the hang of it," Huey said.

Mia chuckled. "Don't worry I was in the same situation. Japanese can be hard for some. My Japanese friends say my speaking their dialect is better than most other foreigners."

"Yeah, I don't have trouble having conversations with Mia," Shiho added.

As Samantha stroked Morgana's face, the Navajo woman added. "That's nice."

"I really like your cosplay," Shiho complimented Huey and Samantha.

"I had thought of coming dressed up like Julia Chang from Tekken, but he convinced me we go as a cosplay couple," Samantha stated.

Huey chortled. "I mean, couple cosplays go hand in hand, right?"

"Well, either way, you both look great," Mia smiled.

As Samantha patted Morgana, she eyed Mia and Shiho.

"So, are you two together…?"

Without saying a word, Mia and Shiho's cheeks blushed pink.

"No judgment here. You two look cute together," she giggled.

"See that, Shiho? If a foreign couple can notice…"

Shiho smiled. "I don't think there's any sense to hide it anymore."

"You're right."

Morgana interjected. "Anyway, don't mean to interrupt your moment, but shouldn't we already be looking for your brother, Mia?"

"Ah! Yeah, you're right! I hope he and his friends didn't get lost!"

Shiho added. "I'm sure they're fine, Mia, but if you want we can check on them."

"Great, let's go then."

---

East Exhibition Hall 2/3:45 PM (JST)

Meanwhile, Shinya and his friends met with Skyler, Hifumi, and Io. They were near the Weekly Shonen Jump booth. In one section, there was a section dedicated to My Hero Academia.

Io, Shinya, Nicola, Reiko, Li-Ming, and Akane stood next to a couple of the Wild Wild Pussycats cosplayers and a Godzillo cosplayer. Skyler and Hifumi took pictures of Io and the teens.

Splashed all over the My Hero Academia section were posters, illustrations, and video scenes of the various characters from the series, including Midoriya Izuku, Bakugō Katsuki, All Might, Iida Tenya, Todoroki Shoto, Uraraka Ochako, Asui Tsuyu, Yaoyorozu Momo, Kirishima Eijirō, Mineta Minoru, Tokoyami Fumikage, Aizawa Shōta, Shigaraki Tomura, Kurogiri, Toga Himiko, and Hero Killer: Stain.

Shinya whipped out his phone and watched a YouTube video of scenes from the My Hero Academia: Two Heroes movie.

"I remember watching this movie with my dad. Let's just say he wasn't too thrilled when I asked him," Akane chuckled.

"Your pops isn't into My Hero Academia?" Shinya asked Akane.

"Well, it's not that. He generally prefers movies meant for older guys like him but don't tell my dad I said this. He does like romantic movies, but he doesn't openly show it," Akane whispered to Shinya and his friends.

"Oh, that's sweet. See? If older men can enjoy romance, why can't you?!" Reiko sneered at him.

"Cause I'm not an older dude, duh."

"What about that time you almost cried at that rom-com we saw together?" Reiko sneakily reminded him, causing Shinya to dismiss this claim.

"Uh, what are you talking about? What rom-com? Must be your imagination, Reiko!"

"Well, we had fun watching that My Hero Academia movie, didn't we?" Nicola asked Shinya and Reiko.

"We sure did," Reiko recalled their hangout experience.

"You would've had a blast with us, Li-Ming, if we met then," Nicola addressed their Chinese friend.

"I saw the movie with my family, but I think I would've had more fun with you three."

"Hell yeah! Plus Ultra!" Shinya shouted.

"Plus Ultra!" Io cried out, eliciting genuine laughter from the teens as they and Io went to the nearest panel.

The group eventually headed over to the Toei Animation booth. They scoured through the sections displaying Toei's big titles: One Piece, Dragon Ball Super, Precure, Digimon, Saint Seiya, and Sailor Moon.

Io, Reiko, Li-Ming, and Akane formed a circle and hugged a Gabumon cosplayer. Shinya posed with Super Saiyan Blue Goku and Vegeta statues. The whole group posed in front of a Thousand Sunny display. The girls posed with Precure and Sailor Moon statues.

Skyler wiped the sweat from his brow. "Whew, Io's sure making us walk around a lot."

Akane panted. "Where does she get all of this energy?"

Hifumi giggled. "Well, it is her first convention. She's been saving this energy for a long time."

Skyler shrugged. "Doesn't it feel like we're acting more like her parents?"

The Shogi player nodded. "Well, I did bring her into this world. Besides, I find her naivety of our world adorable."

"I'm sure you do," the Revenant quipped.

Just then, Skyler's cell vibrated. He scanned the call ID.

"Who is it?" Hifumi asked.

"It's Louis. It looks like he wants us to meet. Possibly to find a place to rest and eat."

"I see."

"Yeah, and Mia just texted me asking where her brother is. That's a sign that we should get at least most of us together and meet somewhere."

Hifumi nodded. "The eating area is probably the best choice to meet."

"Hey, guys! We're meeting the others over at the eating area!" Skyler called over Io and the teens. "Besides, Mia's been asking for you, Nicola."

Nicola sighed. "Oh really?"

Li-Ming asked Nicola. "Big sister problems again?"

"No, she's just overly protective of me. Too overprotective."

Akane added. "Don't worry. I know all about overprotective families. My dad's an officer after all."

Hifumi took a picture of Io posing with a couple of Mr. Osomatsu cosplayers.

"Ready to eat, Io?" Hifumi asked the Persona Vein.

"Yeah!"

---

In another section of Exhibition Hall 2, Ryuji, Miyako, and Mishima met with Yakumo and Emily. Ryuji and Emily got together with a RWBY cosplay group. Their friends then took quick pictures of them and RWBY cosplayers.

Afterward, they ran into a couple cosplaying as Tachibana Taki and Miyamizu Mitsuha (Kimi no Na wa./Your Name.). Mishima took pictures of Ryuji, Miyako, Yakumo, and Emily with the Kimi no Na wa couple.

---

East Exhibition Hall 4/4:00 PM (JST)

Ren and Ann found Futaba and Yusuke near the Aniplex booth. They met and took pictures of Fate/Zero, Fate/stay night, and Kill la Kill cosplayers.

"Hey, look! It's fans cosplaying as some of the Alicization characters!" Futaba pointed to two couples; one couple cosplaying as Kirito and Asuna. The other couple is seen cosplaying as Eugeo and Alice.

"Oh, from the new Sword Art Online season," Ann noted. "Yeah, so how about that recent sexual assault scene?"

Futaba shrugged. "Eh, the author even apologized for it."

"Look, it's Madoka and Homura!" Ann pointed to a lesbian couple cosplaying as Ultimate Madoka and Devil Homura from Mahou Shoujo Madoka Magica. She took pictures of the cosplayer couple. "It's nice to see Madoka still being recognized after all this time!"

Futaba nodded. "It's going to be about 10 years… well, if it weren't for the time screw-up we've been having."

"That no one else but us notices," Yusuke reminded them.

"Hey, there's some Re:Creators cosplayers! Move aside, I've gotta get pics of them!" The otaku pointed to the group full of Re:Creators cosplayers. As she took pictures of the cosplayers, she saw they were rewatching clips from the show.

The videos from their phones showed YouTube clips of the Creation characters: Altair, Selesia Upitiria, Meteora Österreich, Kirameki Mamika, Mirokuji Yūya, Alicetaria February, Blitz Talker, Kanoya Rui, Chikujōin Magane, Hoshikawa Hikayu, Hakua Shō, Erina Talker, and Charon Seiga.

"I love your cosplays, guys! Thanks!" Futaba waved to the Re:Creators cosplayers. She high-fived an Altair cosplayer and walked away.

The very same Altair cosplayer went back to watching a YouTube music video of her character. Altair's face on the phone screen gave a subtle smile before vanishing.

"Man, I tell ya guys, the Isekai genre is seeing a huge uptick in popularity thanks to stuff like Sword Art Online, Re:Zero, and KonoSuba," Futaba informed Ren, Ann, and Yusuke.

"So, let me ask. What other Isekai shows have been popping up these days?" Ann asked Futaba.

"Well, it's not really an Isekai, but have you ever heard of Goblin Slayer?" Futaba asked; when she mentioned this, cosplayers dressed as the Goblin Slayer, Priestess, High Elf Archer, Dwarf Shaman, and Lizard Priest posed for photographers.

"I heard about that one."

"What about The Rising of the Shield Hero?"

Ann nodded. "Heard of it, but no, haven't seen it."

Just then, Ren's phone vibrated. He answered and got a text from Hifumi.

"Hey, Hifumi wants us to meet her and the others at the food court area. Want to go?"

"Man, I'm starving! I say it's break time!" Futaba stretched her arms out. "And my arm could use the rest from carrying these bags!"

"Allow me," Yusuke offered as he carried Futaba's merchandise bag.

"That's gotta suck having to carry her bags full of figurines and crap," Ren chuckled.

"I don't mind."

"Yeah, Inari doesn't mind! And this stuff ain't crap!" Futaba chastised Ren.

"Well, shall we get going? I think we're all a little starving," Ann chimed in.

"Right, let's get moving," Ren casually said, leading them toward the food area.

---

East Exhibition Hall 3/4:15 PM (JST)

Yumeko took a picture with a Zero Two cosplayer. Ryōta posed with a Sora and Shiro (No Game No Life) cosplayer duo. Mary snapped a picture with a Maka Albarn and Soul Evans cosplayer duo. Itsuki posed with the same Rory Mercury cosplayer who posed with Nadia and Anastasia.

The four Spiritual Gamblers then got together with a group of Attack on Titan cosplayers. They posed in front of a giant head prop of the Colossal Titan.

Midari, Rin, Coco, and Davis posed with some Cowboy Bebop cosplayers.

Jack and Eva got into a group shot with Soul Calibur cosplayers.

Sumire and Eugene reunited with the KonoSuba cosplay group they met earlier. They asked Rin to help take pictures. Sumire and Eugene paired up with Darkness and Megumin cosplayers. Making their KonoSuba moments more authentic, Sumire and Eugene reenacted their roleplay moment with Sumire giving the sad, pouty face while Eugene harshly chastised her.

"Thank you!" Sumire waved to the other KonoSuba cosplayers.

"What now?" Rin asked the others.

"Shit, it's your call. Me and Yumeko's groupies are just tagging along," Midari said.

Just then, the group saw a crossover cosplay face-off between Resident Evil and Apocalyptic Academy: Highschool of the Dead. Getting in between the anti-zombie groups was an Alucard (Hellsing) cosplayer posing with prop guns.

"Now, we've entered the darker and edgier side of the anime and gaming community," Jack stated.

"Do you want to get in photos with them?" Eva asked Jack, taking him to the Resident Evil group. After finishing with the group pictures, Jack and Eva posed with the Alucard cosplayer.

"Nice cosplay, you two," the Alucard cosplayer complimented Jack and Eva.

"Thank you," Jack replied in appreciation.

"Where to now, Jack?" Eva queried.

Midari sadistically grinned. "Fuck yeah, now this is my kinda shit!" She hurried in and joined the Resident Evil side. "Let's see which one of us gets the better group shots, Mary!"

Irked by Midari's competitive spirit, Mary scoffed as she got on the Highschool of the Dead side. "Whoever you join, I'll be on the opposing side!"

"Oh, those two are always trying to outdo each other," Ryōta sighed.

"And what's wrong with that? Competition's always healthy for the fighting spirit," Yumeko smirked sinisterly. "It's what keeps us gamblers alive."

Rin caught a group of Devilman Crybaby cosplayers. Much like with the Devil May Cry group, Rin went into fangirl mode and asked for a quick photoshoot, including one shot of a yaoi kiss between an Akira and Ryo cosplayer duo.

"Ohhhh my god, thank you so much! My fangirl wet dreams have been fulfilled for life!" Rin's face turned red. Blood seemed to trickle down her left nostril. She almost fainted from the blood rushing to her head as Davis caught her.

"Geez, easy, woman!" Davis barked.

"I think this is exactly what Rin needed after all!" Coco laughed.

"Hey, take it easy, Rin!" Sumire pulled her aside to find a palace to sit in. When they found a seat, she and Eugene helped Rin recollect herself.

"Here, you want some water?" Eugene offered a fresh bottle for Rin.

"Nah, I'm good. I just need to shake it off."

"Please, drink," Sumire opened the water bottle and handed it to Rin.

"Alright, if you insist," Rin chugged the entire water bottle down.

"Whoa, take it easy!" Eugene yelled out as Rin leaned forward.

"That hit the spot. Thanks."

Sumire patted Rin's back. "See? That did some good, didn't it? After we cool down, we can continue exploring this place."

"Sounds like a plan. You two are great," Rin said, without realizing she was holding Sumire and Eugene's hands. Upon realizing this, the three blushed. "Sorry."

"No, you're good!" Sumire and Eugene blurted out.

After everyone got their cosplay pictures done, Yumeko's cell vibrated and she caught Hifumi's text message.

"Hey, they're all heading to the food area, guys," Yumeko announced to her friends and the shopkeepers.

"Great timing. I'm starving," Mary said.

"Me, too. And my feet could use some rest," Itsuki added.

"So, are we heading over now?" Rin asked Yumeko.

"Yeah, let's go," Yumeko nodded as she grabbed Mary and Ryōta's hands. "Yay, you can buy us something to drink, Ryōta!"

"Oh, sure, anything y'all want!" Ryōta called out as he and Mary were dragged along by the crazy gambler.

"Hey, hold on!" Itsuki called out.

"Wherever you and your friends go, I go, Yumeko," Midari added.

As Coco approached Rin, she asked. "Feeling alright?"

Rin sighed, feeling lightheaded. "Just need a little water after that blood headrush. These two gave me water."

"Yes, she's feeling better now," Sumire nodded.

"We're just about to head out somewhere. Aren't we?" Eugene asked Sumire.

"Yeah, Eugene, Rin, and I are going somewhere else. There's so much to do here," Sumire added.

"Thanks for looking out for Rin while we're looking around," Davis said. "And you better not nosebleed like that again, ok?"

"Will do!" Rin waved Davis off

"No, seriously. Take good care of her, you two," Coco smiled, winking to Sumire and Eugene.

"Sure, we will," Eugene replied.

"Shall we get going, Rin?" Sumire asked, taking Rin's hand.

Taking a deep breath, Rin boasted. "Yeah, I'm not down for the count just yet!"

---

Near the Food Area/5:20 PM (JST)

When everyone met at the food court, they used this time to sit at a table and rest. Most picked up food to eat. Others showed off the pictures they took of the venue and the cosplays they encountered. Others, like Futaba, showed off their merchandise.

Sitting near the group, other cosplayers were taking a rest, including a Kenshiro (Fist of the North Star) cosplayer sitting with a Guts (Berserk) cosplayer. Ann, Haru, Hifumi, Io, Reiko, and Li-Ming took pictures with a Kinomoto Sakura cosplayer. Hifumi and Io took a picture together with a Doraemon cosplayer.

Hifumi stuffed a dumpling into Io's mouth. "How does it taste?"

"Mmm! Yummy!" Io expressed her liking of the tasty food.

"These dumplings are so good!" Mia ate another dumpling, sharing some with Shiho.

"So, are we still going to explore a little more after this?" Makoto asked the others.

"Duh, of course!" Ryuji replied.

"Some of us still haven't gotten to play in the gaming area!" Futaba said.

"You did ask for time off for tomorrow, right, Mako-chan?" Haru asked her lover.

"Yeah, I did. I just asked because I wasn't sure if we'd get everything done in a day."

Louis added. "And if not, you have an extra day off to spend time with Haru-chan."

"So, is Makokins up to play against me in some fighting games?" Skyler asked the officer.

"No, because those aren't my thing."

"Or, are you afraid I'll kick your butt hard you'll beg me to stop, Makokins?" Skyler investigated Makoto to take his challenge.

Crushing the juice can she finished, Makoto gritted. Her brows narrowed and her eyes seemingly burned with intensity. "You're on." She then got right up into Skyler's face, who casually shrugged her off.

Hifumi chuckled seeing her boyfriend renew his 'friendly' rivalry with the Queen.

"Are Skyler and Makoto gonna fight?" Io asked Hifumi.

"No, it's just a friendly competition, Io."

"Any game you two had in mind?" Louis asked Skyler and Makoto.

"Anything with sheer brutality where I can mop the floor with his sorry ass," Makoto growled, not withdrawing her intense glare from Skyler.

Suddenly, they hear the sound of hands clapping. The Phantom Thieves, the Revenants, and the Spiritual Gamblers saw three women approach them. Of the three women, Igarashi Sayaka was among them. The members from each group recognized Sayaka, who was revealed as Shujin Academy's new principal. However, only the Spiritual Gamblers recognized the other two women.

"It's Sayaka again!" Ryōta cried out.

"But, the two other…" Mary frowned at the other two, who were identical twin sisters. She identified the loose-haired twin sister on the left of Sayaka. "That's Momobami Ririka."

Yumeko quickly identified the knotted-haired twin sister. "And Momobami Kirari."

Kirari had both hands inches from making a clapping motion. She gave a courtesy bow to the Spiritual Gamblers and their friends.

"Good day to you all. Please, let's not have any tension. An outing such as this should be for fun and entertainment," Kirari pleasantly addressed them. She looked up and smiled at Yumeko. "Ah, it's you three. Saotome Mary, Suzui Ryōta, and Jabami Yumeko. It's been a while."

"Hehe, you have no idea I've been hoping to lay eyes on you again," Yumeko sadistically grinned as she walked up to Kirari.

"Wait, Yumeko!" Ryōta yelled as he pulled her back.

"Let me go, Ryōta. I just want to say hello to Kirari!"

"Ohoho, still can't control your gambling urges, Jabami-san?" Kirari chortled. "Well, as much as I'd love to renew our gambling games, that'll have to wait."

"Oh…?" Yumeko blinked.

"So, what are you three doing here?" Mary queried, who shifted her sights on Ririka. As they made eye contact, Ririka blushed and averted her gaze. "It's been a while, hasn't it, Ririka?"

"Yes, it has since the academy," Ririka meekly responded toward the assertive Mary.

"We're here because we want to see the convention scene," Sayaka replied.

"And we're involved with the sponsors of this convention, so we're here to prevent any incidents," Ririka verified, doing her best to maintain her collective demeanor with Mary present.

There was murmuring among the Phantom Thieves and Revenants.

"Wait, these three are involved with the co-sponsors of this event?" Haru whispered to Makoto.

"Sure sounds like it," Makoto murmured.

"Between being Shujin Academy's principal and helping with this convention's co-sponsors, this Sayaka is a busy woman," Yusuke muttered.

"I recognize those twins," Ann eyed Kirari and Ririka.

"I seem to recognize them from those photos Yumeko showed us," Ren murmured near his wife.

"Yeah, you're right. They graduated from the same academy Yumeko and her friends did, but they're from a wealthy family that's deeply and politically involved," Ann revealed. "They were interviewed in a magazine I posed for."

"How politically involved are we talking here?" Shiho asked Ann.

"I don't know, but if they're involved with this convention's co-sponsors, they must have a ton of influence."

Hearing this, Makoto carefully noted. "Deeply politically involved, huh?" She shifted a look of suspicion on the Momobami sisters. I wonder if they know or are somehow tied to The Consortium.

"Well, well, it seems you're up to no good, are you, Kirari?" A voice belonging to a young woman interjected, causing the group, including Kirari, Ririka, and Sayaka, to face the other way. The Thieves, the Revenants, and the Gamblers recognized Totobami Terano, who was seen with her sister Totobami Yumi pushing her wheelchair forward.

"What do you expect, Terano?" Another voice belonging to another woman, who the group recognized as Batsubami Rei.

"Still as tense toward me as ever I see," Kirari, ever as composed, pivoted and acknowledged her competitors.

"With good reason," Terano scowled toward Kirari.

"Yes, but if I recall you and your dear sister Yumi lost your votes back in the academy to Yumeko," Kirari verbally cut a knife and twisted it through Terano's fragile pride. "Even I have more clout than you do these days."

"Why you…!" Terano growled, nearly getting up from her chair with sheer will, but Rei promptly stopped her.

"Hey now! Let's take it easy here!" Yumeko interjected.

"And don't think I've forgotten about you either, Jabami Yumeko."

"Yeah, and you lost our game to me. So, get over it," Yumeko shrugged. She nonchalantly turned and faced Kirari. "It's been a hot minute, hasn't it, Momobami Kirari."

"Indeed, it has. I'm feeling excited seeing you again, my worthy opponent," Kirari responded with a calm and seductive tone.

"Alright, this is getting too sensual here," Mary clapped her hands.

"Yeah, what's the deal with you three?" Skyler asked the Momobami sisters and Sayaka.

"Well, thank you for stepping in and helping us," Hifumi politely addressed Kirari.

"You're very welcome. I do humbly apologize for those unwanted tensions. Please don't mind Terano over here. She still has a chip on her shoulder around me," Kirari replied pleasantly. "By the way, I know you can see our Guardian Spirits, Yumeko. Likewise, me, my sister, and Igarashi-san can see yours."

The Spiritual Gamblers were the first to see Kirari, Ririka, and Sayaka's Guardian Spirits. The icy butterflies and Hiyokucho materialized around Sayaka. The Atlas Bear and Rokugezo appeared next to Ririka. Kirari had her peacock, Tengen Kujaku, and her black panther, Hyobishin, materializes next to her.

"We already know Sayaka has her Usura-whatever," Mary said.

"Usura-hicho," Sayaka corrected her. "I forgot to tell you my codename. It's Frosthra."

Midari scoffed. "Like Mo-thra, except you got the ice-themed moths going for ya?"

Sayaka sighed. "They're butterflies, Ikishima-san. I see you're still the uncultured brutish sadist from the academy days."

Ririka did a courtesy bow. "My codename is Defender. My Guardian Spirit is The Atlas Bear."

Kirari had her hand around her peacock's neck. She breathed deep and purred with delight. "My Guardian Spirit is Tengen Kujaku. My codename is Mayura."

"Frosthra, Defender, and Mayura, huh?" Yumeko smirked. "Well, no matter what you call yourselves, I look forward to getting my gambling on with you three."

"Yes, but now isn't the time for us to reignite old flames, Jabami-san," Kirari stated.

The Phantom Thieves and the Revenants were taken aback by the three Guardian Spirits that were summoned. Besides them, no one else could see the Guardian Spirits.

Ririka scanned the crowds. "Seems the public already recognizes us. Should we go?"

"Not before we send an invite to Yumeko and all her friends here," Kirari said before turning to face the Thieves, the Revenants, and the Gamblers. "Honored guests and attendees, you're all cordially invited to take part in tonight's main event of AnimeJapan 2019."

"Main event?" Ren blinked.

"What does she mean?" Skyler wondered.

"I'm surprised none of you know because this main event is a private one. However, I feel it would be in your best interest to accept and participate," Kirari publicly informed them. "Tonight at 7:30 PM, I am hosting a private Pocket Monsters Tournament. It's not public for any players to join. Only the elites are invited, but in this case, we're willing to make an exception for Jabami-san and her friends." A sly smirk formed on her icy blue lips. "This would be a great way to get to know all of you as my new acquaintances. It'll also make for great entertainment for these audiences to see several members among you compete with each other."

"Us competing with each other?" Makoto asked as she and the other Thieves exchanged confused looks.

"Yes, why not? Surely you have good sportsmanship and can handle a little competition amongst yourselves?" Kirari coolly responded, folding both arms over her chest.

"Who says we can't?" Ryuji scoffed. "Yeah, we accept your challenge."

"Whoa, hold on, dummy!" Ann snapped.

"Yeah, are you sure you want to compete against your friends?" Miyako asked Ryuji.

"I don't know," Skyler smirked as he glared at Jack and Makoto. "I don't mind some friendly competition myself. What about you, Hifumi?"

Hifumi wore a determined look. "Even if this is just for fun, I do feel my gamer's spirit being rekindled."

Io clapped. "Then, I'll cheer for you Hifumi and Skyler!"

Jack smirked and nodded. "Well then, let's make this fun. Skyler, I challenge you to a Pocket Monster battle!"

Eva chuckled. "Getting a little too spirited, Jack? Remember this is just for fun."

"Regardless of who wins, we're all winners for seeing some fun matches but I will be cheering for Ren-senpai and whoever partners with him," Sumire stated.

"So, do you humbly accept my challenge?" Kirari smirked as she approached Ren, Hifumi, Skyler, and Yumeko. She whispered to them. "I'm sure you're aware my colleague, Sayaka, told you we're fully aware of your Phantom Thief identities." She acknowledged Ren, coolly smiling and staring him dead in his eyes.

"There's another detail you should know," Sayaka added.

"I'll handle this, Sayaka. As for why we know your identities? Because the three of us are Consortium members," Kirari revealed much to the surprise of all, including Ren, Skyler, and Hifumi.

"What?! You three are Consortium members?!" Makoto snapped as she walked right up to them.

"Shhh! There's no need to shout, Officer Niijima," Kirari calmly responded toward Makoto's outburst.

"And how did you know I'm…"

"There isn't anything The Consortium doesn't already know. We're already aware you've been trying to snoop on our private organization and trying to find as many leads over the Akihabara incident. Well, I can assure you Sayaka, Ririka, and myself have nothing to do with those creatures you and your friends fought against," she reminded them of the cryptid battle linked to the Second Yami Matter event.

"Then, you're aware of the Yami Matter and those Vamkyries?" Skyler inquired.

Kirari nodded. "I have no earthly idea what you're referring to. Those have nothing to do with The Consortium or me for that matter. Those other creatures were escapees from our science division headed by a brilliant but twisted individual."

Sayaka frowned. "The three of us don't associate ourselves with him."

Ririka added. "Yes, he cuts himself off from the rest of us."

"Him?" Louis overheard.

"Anyway, we're steering off the topic. We're indeed Consortium members. So, what then? You have no means to arrest us since you have no proof we had anything to do with those creatures, Officer Niijima. Our organization is handling the situation with the utmost care. We're sorry those three attacked you and you all had to see that."

"But, knowing our Phantom Thief identities still makes us wary of you," Ren reminded Kirari.

"And us by association," Skyler said.

"Yes, but we're not here to engage in any direct engagement that may endanger your lives. However, if you intend to delve further down the rabbit hole, then we will reveal your identities to the public. I'm sure certain authority figures are dying to know who Joker is," Kirari licked her lips.

Hearing this, Ren visibly frowned and said nothing.

"That silence is all the evidence I need," Kirari chortled ever so smoothly. She then faced Hifumi and Skyler. "And you two along with your colleagues have been lending the Phantom Thieves support against some rather interesting forces at work. Well, in due time, we'll be meeting again on a grander stage. Probably sooner than you think." She then veered to her gambling rival. "Isn't that right, Yumeko?"

Before any of them could retort, Kirari smirked and walked away, leaving them to mull over their impressions of the narcissistic woman.

"You want our answer? We accept," Ren responded.

"We all accept," Skyler added.

"Even if it's Pocket Monsters," Hifumi frowned.

"So, let's get our gambling on!" Yumeko ecstatically cried out.

Spinning around dramatically, Kirari turned around and smiled. "Wonderful. Meet us at 7:30 PM at the private conference arena. The stage is already set. All you need to do is come! Give us all a splendid show!"

---

Chapter Soundtrack

Dragonball Z Budokai 3: Character Select - Hifumi and Miki's Shogi match, Ann's gym training, and the phone chat scene.
Persona 5 OST - Suspicion - Makoto researches The Consortium and scans through files on the Cryptid incident. Makoto's former trainee and Minami interject.
Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse OST - Hunter Association - The Vein Remnants invited their friends to AnimeJapan.
Shin Megami Tensei IV: Apocalypse OST - Kohryu - The Phantom Thieves hang out at Café Leblanc and chat about AnimeJapan.
Blood Stain Child - Stargazer Heard in Sound Devices - AnimeJapan.
Blood Stain Child - Electricity Heard in Sound Devices - AnimeJapan.
The Hero! ~Ikareru Ken ni Honō o Tsukero~ (One-Punch Man Opening) - JAM Project Heard in Sound Devices - AnimeJapan.
Tobu - Hope Heard in Sound Devices - AnimeJapan.
My Hero Academia OST - You Can Become a Hero ( 君はヒーローになれる ) Heard in Sound Devices - AnimeJapan.
Blood Stain Child - Merry Go Round Heard in Sound Devices - AnimeJapan.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Main Theme - Lifelight - Showcasing Smash Ultimate and other fighting games in AnimeJapan.
Guilty Crown - David Whitaker - Ready To Go- In AnimeJapan, Ryuji and Futaba listen and comment about the rapper who sings it, wondering if that same rapper could have made a similar song about it Phantom Thieves. Also used for the cast commenting on Guilty Crown itself, knowing in 'Reality: 2021' it's going to be the anime's 10th anniversary.
Re:CREATORS Opening 1 Full - SawanoHiroyuki[nZk] Feat. Tielle & Gemie - gravityWall Heard in Sound Devices - Scene of Re:Creators's presence in AnimeJapan.
Kakegurui OST - High-strung Spirit - Kirari's theme in meeting the protagonists.
Kakegurui XX OST - The Momobami Clan - As the song title states, the debut of the Momobami Clan.
Kakegurui XX OST - Waltz of Trickery - Discussion among the Momobami Clan and Yumeko meeting old acquaintances/rivals.

---

A/N: The chapter starts with intrigue, then eases down with some fun convention scenes. Finally, Kirari and her entourage escalated things with a Pokémon tournament challenge.

Minami of The Pack and that unnamed rookie officer return as the Queen continues her investigation for Sae. Does anyone smell a big cover-up/conspiracy with The Consortium involved?

And Sojiro's back for a scene to serve the Thieves fresh evening brew and lend his 'wisdom' (aka his smart-alec wit).

I hope the convention scenes aren't too overwhelming for some of you. I wanted to give as many scenes to the characters being spread out and exploring different sections. Trust me on this. Even someone who's been to many conventions like myself can tell you just by watching videos of AnimeJapan, it's a freaking huge event that draws over 100,000 people. The largest North American anime cons have nothing on AnimeJapan.

Not only do Maruki, Ichinose, and Sophia return but Zenkichi and Akane show up for the AnimeJapan festivities! Yes, I am fulfilling those Royal/Strikers appearances like I said. Akane begins a bond with Shinya's group and Sophia meets Io in person (since Io wasn't present during the Shujin reunion). Zenkichi's interaction with Akechi is only a matter of when not if. Also, are we looking at another three-way relationship with Sumire, Eugene, and Rin? Seems likely! Even Mishima and Shiho are here. This chapter is full of the known characters!

Then, we get small appearances from the Advent Eight, just to remind you that they're still in this story for the long haul.

Note to Yumeko, Mary, Itsuki, and the Gamblers from the future: The Promised Neverland Season 2 is mediocre. No, it's bad. It's not worth the wait! Trust me.

Another tidbit; more Urban Myth appearances/cameos influenced (and come to life) in response to Yami Matter presences. This time One-Punch Man, My Hero Hero Academia, and Re:Creators. Our cast still doesn't know they're being watched by these driving forces.

Here comes Kirari, Ririka, and Sayaka of The Consortium. Kirari invites our cast to a private Pokémon tournament. The tournament setup and participants will be revealed in the next chapter. It will be a series of team battles. So far, Skyler & Hifumi and Jack & Eva are confirmed entries. You can honestly expect the other notable couples like Ren & Ann, but there'll be a few random mix and matches to make the competition interesting.

And that's it. The AnimeJapan coverage continues with a Pokémon tournament!

Send a review and I shall have the chapter out soon.